Alford BULLetin 17 - Spring 2020

The

BULLETIN A Community Magazine for Alford

FREE! Issue 17 Spring 2020

... News ... Groups ... Features ... Club Directory ...

Open Daily

29th March - 25th October 2020

OPENING TIMES MUSEUM: Daily 10am-5pm

Travellers Rest CafĂŠ: 10:30am-4:30pm

Junior Driving School: Weekends and Holidays For more information

Want in the BULLe�n?

For adver�sing and editorial, please note the copy deadlines below and use the contacts listed at the bo�om of the page DEADLINES . FEB 1 . MAY 1 . AUG 1 . NOV 1 PUBLISHED MAR JUNE SEPT DEC

Contents News Circus Circles DCC Contacts/News Cllr Contacts Moving Chari�es Pain in the Neck?

No�ce Board To the Moon and Back Club Directory Adver�sers’ Index Ad Rates & Copy Dates

Welcome to Issue 17 of The BULLe�n.

In keeping with the Spring-time of year, this issue you can go Mad March, run away to the Circus, travel to the moon with ACTS and find various ways to be charitable...

I’m delighted to say that interest in all three magazines in the Myriad Pro stable has swelled again in the new year, with all the spring editions increasing their page number upwards.

Thank you to all our advertisers, new and established. Interested in advertising your business? You can find details and ad prices inside the back page. Remember too to get involved in the newly resurrected Local Business Network (p4). Alford needs a Business Association and this could be the beginning of one...

There’s a new Fun Corner for the kids on p25, thanks to Pop-Up So� Play while p16 sports a new No�ce Board.

I am grateful too to anyone who contributed copy about their group, organisation or event.

Remember that community information is FREE to include, so if you have any news, tell me about it.

Thanks to Edna Harris for this issue’s cover picture.

4 7 10 11 12 14 18 21 32 38 38 Cat Houston Design/Editor

get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk call Cat on 013397 55243 or 07805 731401 www.myriadpro.co.uk . find us on facebook

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Do you have something to share? An upcoming event or achievement? Group or individual, let The BULLetin know what you are up to, using the contacts on p3 and 34.

Networkers get back to business...

The Alford & Aberdeenshire Local Business Network is back!

Local business owners Chloe Lawson of Chloe’s Kitchen Creations fame and Nikki Peachey, who runs the travel agency Not Just Travel, have teamed up and have been working hard behind the scenes, planning networking events for the whole of 2020.

There will be events themed around business types, guest speakers, Business Gateway and charity organisers, with the next event taking place on Monday March 9th at the Haughton Arms Hotel, 7-9pm, £5 per person. Teas and coffees will be provided.

Traders of all kinds are urged to: “Come along and get to know your local businesses in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. It’s so important to support local.”

For more information, including all the future dates, you can find the group on Facebook or get in touch via email: Alfordnetworking@gmail.com

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Aberdeenshire Electrical Services Ltd T: 013398 85355 M: 07855 678677 E: aberdeenshireelectricalsrvs@btinternet.com F: AberdeenshireElectricalSrvs All aspect of electrical work undertaken: Domestic - Commercial - Industrial - Agricultural - Oil & Gas Inspection & Testing - PAT Testing Supplier/installer of electric vehicle charging points free estimates - all work guaranteed - no job too small - local run business

Run away to the Circus

Tullynessle and Forbes Hall is hosting a Circus Skills Workshop for primary age children and their carers at their Interac�ve Family Fun Day on Thursday 16th April.

Beginning with a circus skills school with Circus Modo, followed by a film suitable for primary ages.

Step right up and join Modo – the Circus with purpose, as they show you ball juggling, plate spinning, tight wire walking and hula hooping to learn all the skills needed to run away with the circus. Modo is a social enterprise that uses high-quality engagement in circus, street theatre and arts as a catalyst for individual and community change.

The Circus Skills School will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm, then at 1pm, a�er a picnic lunch, they will show a film or series of short films suitable for primary ages (film(s) to be decided). £8 per ticket per child. Children should be accompanied by an adult or adults (no charge for adults).

Look out for posters around the village and the Tullynessle Hall and Alford Facebook groups for further info, or email: edna.harris@gmail.com

7

years 30we’ve on...

moved!

Original outdoor clothing

Are you suffering from lower back; neck, shoulder or knee problems; plantar fasciitis; repetitive strain Injuries or any other aches/pains/injuries?

Made in Scotland.

Used worldwide.

At Hilltrek we’ve been hand cra ing performance outdoor clothing on Royal Deeside for 30 years. Our story now continues in larger premises at

Deeside Activity Park.

Call Alison on 07760 883309 or Elegant Beauty in Main Street Alford 019755 63775

Qualified Massage Therapist in Remedial and Sports, Swedish, Indian Head, Workplace Seated Acupressure and People Living with Cancer.

hillgear.s

cot

Hilltrek clothing • Páramo shop • Outdoor clothing repairs

www.hilltrek.co.uk

Alison Spice Massage Therapies

01339 886062

Monkey Business

MAD MARCH SCIENCE FESTIVAL

For all your little monkeys

2020 - Schools programme –

(Hare by jacob)

- Family festivals – - Renewables open houses – - Computer hackathon – - Climate change talk – Find out more here

www. https://festival2020.futuregroup.org.uk/

• Children’s Clothing 0-6 • Wide range of children’s shoes, size 0 to 3/36 • Foot measuring service • Large selection of new baby gifts • Quality brands • Friendly service Open Mon-Fri 10-5 . Sat 10-4 (closed Thursday) . Free Parking .

Station Square, Aboyne 013398 87140

9 Highlights of the Cromar Future Group’s Mad March Science Festival include: – Two open family Science Festivals featuring the popular MadLabs: 7th March at Towie Hall in Donside and 8th March at Tarland’s MacRobert Hall.

– See renewables in action by visiting local homes on Sunday 15th March.

– The Science of Flight with Deeside Gliding Club on 21st March.

– A Coding Hackathon on 29th March in Tarland for ambitious young coders.

– Visits by CFG to 14 local primary schools providing hands-on science activity to pupils throughout March.

Full details are on the website www. h�ps://fes�val2020.futuregroup.org.uk/ or follow the Festival link from the main website www.futuregroup.org.uk.

BOOK EARLY, as places for some events are limited. Follow CFG on facebook to get rapid updates to programme or booking.

Donside Community Council Your Elected Representa�ves:

Chair: Vice Chair Secretary/ Treasurer Alford

Nicola Sedgwick Bruce Sco� Margaret Henderson Steven Graham Dorothy Anderson Margaret Henderson Andy Travis Bruce Sco� Vacant Vacant Vacant Lumsden/Kildrummy Sue Cross Tanya Reynolds Glenkindie/Towie Anne Miller Vacant Tullynessle & Forbes/ Vacant Montgarrie Gloria Malcolm Keig Yvonne Buckingham Vacant Cushnie/Craigievar/ Fiona Bain Muir of Fowlis Tough Nicola Sedgwick Vacant Strathdon/Corgarff/ Paul Toohey Glenbuchat Vacant Vacant

When do we meet?

Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month (except July and Dec) What Time?

7.30pm – 9.30pm: tea/coffee from 7.15pm Where?

Alford Community Campus Anyone interested in what we do is warmly welcome to come along to any of our meetings

If you wish to contact one of the representatives please do so via the email addresses below and it will be forwarded: chair@ donsidecommunitycouncil. org.uk

This is your MP and MSP S������� P��������� Alexander Burne� MSP 0131 348 5642 Alexander.Burnett.msp @parliament.scot

W����������

Andrew Bowie MP 0207 219 2791 andrew.bowie.mp @parliament.uk

Councillors' Contacts

These are your Ward 14 councillors

Cllr Moira Ingleby

07770 410539 cllr.m.ingleby@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

Cllr John Latham

07876 475038 cllr.j.latham@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

Donside Community Council had a little break in December but January saw the first meeting of the year at Alford Community Campus.

At all of our meetings there is an opportunity for members of the public to speak about concerns they have or projects they wish to promote. Recent contributors to our meetings have included: – Lumsden residents, concerned about speeding traffic in their village – Alford Litter Club, concerned about the effect of litter in our community – Donside Boys Football Club, who are fundraising for a Club trip to Holland.

Dates and locations of Donside Community Council meetings and agendas are now posted on the Facebook page and you can also share events in your community there. You can contact the Community Council or your local representative via Facebook or using the email on the opposite page.

Cllr Gwyneth Petrie

07891 296064 cllr.g.petrie@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

Cllr Robbie Withey

07388 956147 cllr.r.withey@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

11

Charity shops on the move Dawgs home in and new start for HomeStart

Shopping lovers got an extra treat on Valentine’s Day when a new charity shop opened in Grampian House on Alford’s Main Street.

The HomeStart shop marks a new expansion for the national charity aimed at assisting families through challenging times.

All of the money raised in their shops goes towards helping to make a difference to parents and children facing great difficulties.

They are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work within the new Alford shop as well as their existing one in Aboyne. This is a great opportunity to do something amazing in your spare time and give something back to your local community, or perhaps return the support you once received from Home-Start.

Not only will you be able to work alongside the friendly team, you will get the chance to improve on your personal and skill development.

If you would be interested in becoming part of the team email info@homestartdeeside.org or call 01330 824443.

HomeStart needs volunteers to work in new shop 12

ERIC PROCTOR GROUNDWORKS With over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry, we pride ourselves on the quality of workmanship that we can provide to our customers on a residential or commercial basis

. Agricultural Buildings + Repairs . . Bricklaying . Concrete Work . Drainage . . Foundation Reinforced + Bolt Sets . . Driveways . Patios .

Eric Proctor t/a E-S Proctor | Craigshannoch | Alford | AB33 8EE 07711 507717 | eric.proctor17@gmail.com

Meanwhile, the Aberdeenshire Charity DAWGS has relocated its rehoming base from Aberdeen into Alford and will soon amalgamate its popular Main Street shop into the new site at the Old Bakehouse.

DAWGS has given thousands of dogs from across the North East a second chance over the last 25 years from its previous base on the Lang Stracht. The charity shop in Alford has been open for five years.

The new Rehoming Centre opened in February, with the new shop area set to open soon. The existing shop at 44 Main Street will remain open until this is complete.

The charity says the move is a positive step forward and they also have plans to expand the range of services they provide.

If you or someone you know finds themselves in the difficult situation of having to give up their dog, get in touch.

The DAWGS Rehoming Centre is open Monday-Friday, 9.30am-1.30pm and the team can be contacted via their website

New homes for dogs ...and DAWGS

www.dawgs.co.uk, email at info@dawgs. co.uk or by phone on 01224 208989.

Pictured above is the charity’s new Meet and Greet Room.

for relaxation for therapy for you

Aromatherapy | Manual Lymphatic Drainage | Sports | Aches and Pains Face Massage | Mini Facial with Tropic Products | Deep Colon Massage Reflexology | Lycon Waxing Coming Soon

Call for an appointment at Millionhairs Salon . Station Square . Aboyne 01339 886212 . 07899 849971 . www.caledoniantherapies.net

Pain in the neck?

Did you know the average human head weighs between 8-10lbs? That’s the same as a bowling ball! The reason that we mostly don’t notice this is because our neck is set up with its own shock absorbing system called your cervical lordosis. This refers to the gentle curve in your neck that helps with the normal weight balance of your head.

However, in a modern lifestyle we are all spending far too much time in a slouched position with a Forward Head Carriage (FHC).

Prolonged periods of time si�ng at a desk, driving, stress and being attached to phones and tablets is causing nothing short of a postural epidemic!

Studies have shown that for every inch your head moves forward, another 10lbs of force is put through the joints and muscles in your neck! This effect is similar to carrying something close to your body versus carrying it at arm’s length.

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The real problem here is the length of time we spend in this FHC position. Imagine how many hours today you have spent looking at a screen of some kind, driving or slouched on the sofa. When you think about it that way, it’s hardly a surprise that so many people suffer with neck pain and headaches.

Here at Banchory Spinal Health we are a team of highly trained team of Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Massage therapists; experts at helping our patients understand the underlying course of their pain and providing specialist treatment without the use of medication. Curious about what we do? Give us a call on 01330 824040 or email info@banchoryspinalhealth.co.uk – or why not attend our Open Day on 28th March where we are offering FREE spinal health checks. Booking is essential for this event so get in touch to avoid disappointment. Can’t wait until the 28th March? Bring this page for 50% off a Full New Patient Consultation with us – this offer expires 30th April!

TUTTI FRUTTI

YOGA

Alford . Keig . Lumsden .Aboyne .Torphins

My yoga brings suppleness & strength to your body. Healthy, calm space to your mind.

Brings balance to You :) All classes drop-in Suitable for beginners & more advanced yogis Come along any time!

Feel free to get in touch with any questions

Further info from Julie Webb 07861 719143 tuttifruttiyoga@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/tuttifruttiyogaclasses

NOTICE BOA RD Always something going on...

Send your posters (in Word, jpeg or pdf format) to The Fountain via catrionahouston@ yahoo.co.uk or the BULLe�n Facebook page

The Deeside Group WI Coffee Morning will be held in the MacRobert Hall, Tarland on March 21st from 10am-12noon

16

ABOYNE FARMERS MARKET ABOYNE GREEN 10.00 AM TO 2.00 PM 2020 MARKET DATES 11/04/2020 13/06/2020 08/08/2020 10/10/2020

09/05/2020 11/07/2020 12/09/2020 12/12/2020

LOTS OF STALLS AND LOCAL PRODUCE INCLUDING EGGS . MEAT . JAMS . HONEY . BEE PRODUCTS PASTRIES . CHUTNEY . LOCAL CRAFTS . FISH . BREAD PET SUPPLIES . CHEESE . PLANTS . SWEET TREATS

Run By The Seed Box Follow Us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/aboynefarmersmarket/

Sunday 28th June 2020

Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for more information. or contact lisagardiner@worldhorsewelfare.org 01339 885398 www.worldhorsewelfare.org/Farm/Belwade-Farm Registered Charity No: 206658 and SC038384

GRAMPIAN

TREE SERVICES

All aspects of tree + hedge work undertaken Qualified & fully insured tree surgeons SIMON STEWART 07835 343983 (SAUCHEN) www.grampiantreeservices.co.uk grampiantrees@gmail.com GrampianTreeServices

A new home for new home for AA AA new new home home for for new home for spring at spring at spring spring at at spring at Silver Birches, Silver Birches, Silver Silver Birches, Birches, Silver Birches, Alford Alford Alford Alford Alford Silver Birches is aisspecial neighbourhood perfectly located on on thethe Silver Birches a special neighbourhood perfectly located Silver Silver Birches Birches is aisspecial a special neighbourhood neighbourhood perfectly perfectly located located on on thethe Silver Birches is a special neighbourhood perfectly located onhills the edge of Alford.

As As wellwell as enjoying breath-taking views of rolling hills edge of Alford. as enjoying breath-taking views of rolling edge edge ofedge Alford. of Alford.

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3& 44 bedroom family homes from £220,000 3& bedroom family homes from £220,000 3& 3& 434 bedroom family family homes homes from from £220,000 £220,000 &bedroom 4 bedroom family homes from £220,000 ENQUIRE TODAY! ENQUIRE TODAY! ENQUIRE ENQUIRE TODAY! TODAY! ENQUIRE TODAY! Showhome & marketing suite open Thursday to Sunday, 11:00am – 5:30pm Showhome & marketing suite open Thursday to Sunday, 11:00am – 5:30pm Showhome Showhome & marketing & marketing suite suite open open Thursday Thursday to Sunday, to Sunday, 11:00am 11:00am – 5:30pm – 5:30pm Showhome & marketing suite open Thursday to Sunday, 11:00am – 5:30pm 0845 075075 8284 | silverbirches@stewartmilne.com 0845 8284 | silverbirches@stewartmilne.com 0845 0845 075 075 8284 8284 | silverbirches@stewartmilne.com | silverbirches@stewartmilne.com 0845 075 8284 | silverbirches@stewartmilne.com

stewartmilnehomes.com stewartmilnehomes.com stewartmilnehomes.com stewartmilnehomes.com stewartmilnehomes.com

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THE DUKESWOOD THE DUKESWOOD THE THE DUKESWOOD DUKESWOOD THE DUKESWOOD 4 bedroom detached home 649 4 bedroom detached home| Plot | Plot 649| £260,000 | £260,000

4 bedroom 4 bedroom detached detached home home | Plot | Plot 649649 | £260,000 | £260,000 4 bedroom detached home | 649 Plot | £260,000 AVAIL ABLE WITH PART EXCHANGE!* AVAIL ABLE WITH PART EXCHANGE!* AVAIL AVAIL ABLE ABLE WITH WITH PART PART EXCHANGE!* EXCHANGE!* AVAIL ABLE WITH PART EXCHANGE!*

• Spacious dining/kitchen withwith breakfast bar bar • Spacious dining/kitchen breakfast • Spacious • Spacious dining/kitchen dining/kitchen with with breakfast breakfast bar bar bar • Spacious dining/kitchen with breakfast • Full range of premium kitchen appliances included & separate utility room withwith • Full range of premium kitchen appliances included & separate utility room • direct Full • Full range range ofrange premium ofgarden premium kitchen kitchen appliances appliances included included & separate & separate utility utility room room with with with • Full of premium kitchen appliances included & separate utility room access to direct access to garden direct direct access access toaccess garden to garden direct to garden • Master bedroom features fitted wardrobes andand ensuite shower room • Master bedroom features fitted wardrobes ensuite shower room • Master • Master bedroom bedroom features features fitted fitted wardrobes wardrobes andand ensuite ensuite shower shower room roomroom • Master bedroom features fi tted wardrobes and ensuite shower • Guest bedroom withwith fitted wardrobes andand ensuite shower room • Guest bedroom fitted wardrobes ensuite shower room • Guest • Guest bedroom bedroom withwith fitted fitted wardrobes andand ensuite ensuite shower room roomroom •bathroom Guest bedroom with fiwardrobes tted bath wardrobes andshower ensuite shower • Family includes separate andand shower enclosure plusplus fitted vanity • Family bathroom includes separate bath shower enclosure fitted vanity • furniture Family • Family bathroom bathroom includes includes separate separate bathbath andbath and shower shower enclosure enclosure plusplus fitted fiplus tted vanity vanity • Family bathroom includes separate and shower enclosure fi tted vanity furniture furniture furniture furniture • WC/cloakroom on ground levellevel • WC/cloakroom on ground • WC/cloakroom • WC/cloakroom on ground on ground level level level • WC/cloakroom on ground • Private enclosed garden • Private enclosed garden • Private • Private enclosed garden garden •enclosed Private enclosed garden • Integrated garage • Integrated garage • Integrated • Integrated garage garage • Integrated garage

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The Commercial THE SQUARE . TARLAND

New Spring Menu Available Food Served Daily 12 til 9pm Group Bookings and Private Functions Sunday Lunch ~ Takeout Menu ~ Family & Pet-Friendly

www.thecommercial-hotel.co.uk

013398 81922

01975 571775 07792 830780

• • • •

Local family business Oil and biomass boiler servicing and repairs New boilers sold and installed with 5 and 10-year warranties Aga Servicing

�lameboilerservices@gmail.com

www.�lameboilerservices.co.uk

Transport charity travels to the moon and back Every request fulfilled over 20 years of driving, writes Colin Spence

In April 2000 Alford Car Transport Service (ACTS) carried its first passengers.

This was the culmina�on of many months prepara�on from when the idea was first mooted by Lord and Lady Forbes that it would be good to have a body of local volunteers to assist people in the Alford area to a�end appointments when public or family transport was not available.

In the first full year, a�er promo�on by Alford Medical Prac�ce, the service had carried 263 passengers and travelled 11,700 miles. Demand for the service increased over the years with passenger numbers regularly exceeding 800 per year.

Fast forward to April 2020 and ACTS can claim to have literally driven to the moon and back, and by the end of the year will have travelled half a million miles, making over 14,000 journeys that li�le bit easier for the people of Alford.

The driving force behind ACTS is Gladys Cruickshank who has been “at the wheel” since day one and can proudly state that in 20 years every legi�mate request for transport has been fulfilled.

The service provided by ACTS is free, with passengers being invited to make a dona�on towards costs if their circumstances allow.

Many people have been “on the books”

as ACTS drivers over the years and a hear�elt thanks is deserved by all of these folk willing to give a few hours of their week to this cause.

There are currently 36 registered drivers and more would be very welcome. Escorts are also required on occasions where a passenger requires assistance and ACTS also provide wheelchairs where required. If you have some �me to give, why not give it to a local community service, contact number below.

In addi�on to passenger dona�ons, ACTS also relies on third party funding and is a grateful recipient of the Co-op’s Local Community Fund, where Co-op members can choose a good cause to which the Coop donates 1% of their spending on own brand goods.

An annual fundraising Coffee Morning is also held in the Village Hall where, in addi�on to a “cuppa and a fine piece”, visitors can have a blood pressure check carried out courtesy of Alford Medical Prac�ce and Alford Rotary Club.

This year’s Coffee Morning will be on Saturday 18th April between 10 and 11.30am.

If you live in the Alford area and need assistance with travel for a health-related issue, please call Gladys on 019755 64237.

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SG

TREE SERVICES

Specialising in all aspects of Tree & Hedge Maintenance

~ Tree Reduction/Removal/Dismantle ~ ~ Dangerous Branch Removal ~ ~ Pruning and Shaping ~ ~ Hedge Maintenance ~ ~ Stump Grinding ~ ~ Scrub Clearance ~ ~ Storm Clean-up ~ Free Advice on TPOs/Licences Professionally Insured/Trained 019755 63869 / 07764 198725 sgtreeservice@yahoo.com www.sgtreeservices.co.uk

Far m Tours with Scottish Afternoon Tea

Available Thursdays & Saturdays from April till October (inclusive) 1.30pm - 3.30pm BOOKING ESSENTIAL tickets.worldhorsewelfare.org

World Horse Welfare Belwade Farm Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, AB34 5BJ

www.worldhorsewelfare.org

ADULTS £19.50 CHILDREN £12.50

Friends of Haughton Park are delighted to have been chosen to benefit from the Co-op Local Community Fund, along with Alford Car Transport Service (ACTS, featured on the previous page) and the Alford Youth Cafe (you can read about their latest antics on p27).

The Co-op is looking to support organisations that make a difference in their local communities by protecting and improving community spaces, helping people reach their full potential by developing their skills, or promoting health and wellbeing.

The Friends of Haughton Park group say they are grateful for this opportunity to make a real difference in the park, and are raising funds for their first major project: a “top-quality, all-weather pump track and mountain bike skills area, suitable for all ages and abilities”. Everyone from tots on balance bikes to older skilled and non-skilled riders will be able to enjoy the facility.

All three groups will be relying on Coop members to help them raise vital funds.

When a member buys selected own-brand products or services from the Co-op they earn a 5% reward for themselves, with a further 1% for local causes. Members can select one of the three to benefit or allow the cash to collect in a larger, wider fund.

If you’re not a member and would like to support them, you can join at the Mart Road store, or online at www.coop.co.uk.

Friends of Haughton Park had a great first AGM in January. All office bearers are in place with a small but active committee.

New members are welcome, however, and in particular, someone who could assist with the group’s social media presence.

If anyone is interested in joining this friendly group, get in touch by emailing friendsofhaughtonpark@gmail.com or via their Facebook page.

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...needs your vote now!

We have reached the final of the Aberdeen Business Awards 2020 in the Best New Business category

***

Let’s make Alford an award-winning destination!

Register your vote for us here: www.scotlandsbusinessawards.co.uk/aberdeen before March 27th

***

Artisan Food & Drink . Coffee . Pick 'n' Mix . Jams + More Open Monday to Saturday . 10am to 5pm 63 Main Street . Alford . AB33 8AA . 07786 548707

Official stockists . Campagnolo . KCNC . DDK . Prologo Kinesis UK . Behind Bars . Sector . DMR . Lezyne . Vittoria Continental . Clarks . Michelin

services . checks . repairs . new parts punctures . wheel building/repair . tuning rider positioning . Buggy/pram tyre repair boxed bikes assembled + checked Munara . Gallowhill . Alford . AB33 8NE 019755 62646 . 07969 963209 nuvolari1953@hotmail.com facebook.com/munaracyclesolutions/

The Alford Bistro

Breakfast . Lunches . Coffee & Cakes . Bistro-style Evening Meals . Community Hub

Restaurant Opening Times Mon/ Tues 9-5 Wed/ Thurs 9-8 Fri/Sat 9-9 Sun 10-8 Family-run restaurant since 2003 Two-bedroom accommodation ~ upstairs from the Bistro ~ now available for B&B/short let 40 Main Street . Alford . AB33 8PX . . . 019755 63154 . . . Find us on Facebook

Fun Corner!

with

Ballater

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me in!

elp Arnold Can you h is lunch? get to h

What do you call an Alligator with a GPS? A Navi-gator!

What game should you not play with an Aligator?

Snap!

Christmas Fes�val says thank you, 4,500+ �mes!

Sooo many people to men�on, writes Kerry Anderson A big thank you for making our second Christmas festival another success!

We would like to give our sincere thanks to every single person who helped in making it possible, from the volunteers who helped put up the Christmas lights, the businesses who had trees outside their premises, to the donations of raffle prizes and sponsorships.

To the people who give up their time to help out their community with se�ng up, running the event, driving Thomas, catering, marshalling, lending equipment, performing, supporting and enhancing our event, all giving up their time, expertise and equipment for free, we are always overwhelmed by the community of Alford and beyond for supporting us and bringing Christmas cheer to so many. There are too many to thank individually so this is a huge thank you to you all!!! With over 4,500 people attending this year we look forward to doing it all again on the last Sunday of November. If you would like to join the committee or offer help or sponsorship, please get in touch at kerryjhenderson@hotmail.co.uk or via Facebook.

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Buannaich Bookkeeping Services Catherine Dow FIAB Bookkeeping Wages VAT Budgets

Computerised Accounts Accounts Preparation Cash Flows Personal Taxation

Acorn Bothy 1 bedroom self-catering accommodation Close to Alford - A home-from-home 100% positive guest feedback

Arcadia, Aberdeen Rd, Alford AB33 8ED 019755 63880 07760 413303 buannaich@btinternet.com

Used by many guests who have friends and family in the area.

See website: www.acornbothy.co.uk

Your Community Campus

Alford Community Campus has a films programme. See their Facebook page or www. livelifeaberdeenshire for details.

The next film showing will be the Oscarwinning epic war drama 1917 on Friday 13th March from 6-8pm.

Alford Youth Cafe is excited to announce that it is planning a series of Campus Takeovers.

What is this? On the last Sunday of the month the group, which also meets every fortnight at Tick Tock Play, will be taking over the large sports hall, small sports hall and the rock wall at Alford Community Campus from 5-7pm.

All families are welcome, and activities available will include badminton, football, basketball, table tennis, rock climbing.

Sunday nights just got a whole lot more competitive! Bring the whole family – £1 entry per person.

From swimming to spin classes, find out what else is happening at Alford Community Campus by just dropping in, emailing alford.campus@aberdeenshire. gov.uk, visiting www.livelifeaberdeenshire. org.uk and following the links to Alford, or calling 01975 562922. Open: Monday-Friday 6.30am-10pm Saturday 9.30am- 4pm Sunday 11am-7pm

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STRACHAN’S Serving Royal Deeside for Four Generations

Newsagents

Ice Cream

Confectionery

Photocopying & Laminating

Wines & Spirits

Hardware

Haberdashery

Toys and Puzzles

Malt Whiskies

Lottery

Calor Gas

Balloons & Party Gifts

Pet Foods

Stationery

Paints

Grocery

Gardening

Delicatessen

Fishing Supplies

and lots more...!

A LARGE SELECTION OF FISHING FLYS AND ACCESSORIES ON DISPLAY IN OUR ABOYNE BRANCH

By appointment to HM The Queen General Merchants

Main St Aboyne AB34 5HT 013398 86121

2 Golf Rd Ballater AB35 5RE 013397 755452

www.georgestrachanltd.com

By appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales General Merchants

The BULLe�n LOVES Business!

The BULLe�n relies on adver�sing to pay for design and prin�ng. But our adver�sers are not just a space on a page.

All adver�sers also benefit from featuring in a Facebook album every quarter, and where adver�sers’ own posts are seen, they are shared. Feel free to tag The BULLe�n to make sure.

New businesses who adver�se can also benefit from introductory features, and there are perks to being a long-term adver�ser too, or featuring in our Aboyne publica�on, The Fountain, also.

The business landscape and publicity methods are changing all the �me so if you have any ideas on how The BULLe�n can further support you, do let us know.

No ma�er if you are on Main Street, out in the s�cks, working from your spare room or just online, get in touch.

The very best of luck to all new businesses starting up. Have you started a new business in the Alford area? Want a mention?

Get in touch: catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk

K&A ANDERSON LONENWELL GARAGE . ALFORD . 019755 62215

LOG SPLITTERS CHAINSAWS SNOW BLOWERS IN STOCK NOW

PREP ARE FOR AUTU MN & WI NTER

MOTs + SERVICING 40 YEARS in BUSINESS LOGS . KINDLING . PEAT BRIQUETTES . ECO LOGS . COAL & CALOR GAS

All aspects of roofing – from a minor repair to a new roof

Flat roofs (single ply + felt) . Tiles . Slates PVC Fascias + Soffits Guttering . Maintenance . Inspections registered installers

07773 772829 or 07917 161296 enquiries@alfordroofingcompany.co.uk www.alfordroofingcompany.co.uk

CRAIGIEVAR GARDENERS Garden design Garden maintenance Landscaping Hot Tubs for your home and business Our luxurious hot tubs are hand-crafted in the USA and are a perfect combination of quality and affordability. Do you have a holiday home? We have models designed specifically for the hospitality industry that come with a full commercial warranty.

www.highlandglenspas.co.uk Phone. 013398 80540

David 07759 977387 019755 81278 Wendy 07831 440848 019756 41778 wendysimpson@hotmail.co.uk

Club Directory

This directory is compiled using the Alford Community website’s listings at www.alfordcommunity.co.uk Thank you!

If you know or discover any of the details to be incorrect, or if you wish to add your club’s details to it, please get in touch: catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk Alford Men’s Shed John McMillan, 019755 62885 john-millbrech@hotmail.co.uk Howe Trinity Cra� Group Aileen Low, 019755 62106 33aileen@gmail.com Alford Bridge Club Alford Golf Clubhouse Walter Michie, 019755 62692 Wednesdays 6.50pm October to April Donside Camera Club Alford Public Hall, Kingsford Road, Alford John Fowler, 01224 742278 jdfowler@sky.com Alford & District Garden Club Community Room, Community Campus, every third Tuesday Morag Watson, 019755 62538 moraglwatson@icloud.com Donside Enamelling Group Meeting every second Thursday from 11-3 Oct-March.

Helen Murray, 019755 62131 helenmurray804@gmail.com Cushnie Handbell Ringers Cushnie Church, Mondays , 1.30pm-3pm Mrs Mary Penny, 01339 883271 Alford SWI Alford Upper Public Hall, Kingsford Road Mrs Anne Stallard, 019755 63859 Second Thursday of the month, 7.30pm

Alford & District Rotary Club Haughton Arms Hotel, Main Street, Alford Almost every Tuesday, 7pm for 7.15pm David Dawson (Sec), 019755 63352 dawsons3@btinternet.com Tullynessle & Forbes SWI Tullynessle & Forbes Hall Shiela Taylor, 019755 62798 email: staylor019@btinternet.com First Tuesday of the month 7.30pm Vale of Alford Young Farmers David Marshall, 019755 71330 Tuesdays 7.30pm Alford Fairtrade Ann Wilkinson, 019755 62382 alfordfairtradegroup@gmail.com Alford Local History Group Community Room, Community Campus Liz Law, 019755 62803; Ian.chapelmoss@btopenworld.com First Wednesday of every month during winter months, 7.30pm Alford Genealogy Group Library, Alford Community Campus Val Lyons, 019755 62003 valerie.lyons25@btinternet.com Last Saturday of month 10.30am-12 noon Sco�sh Country Dancing Group Howe Trinity Parish Church Hall 110 Main Street, Alford Mrs Alice Kemp, 019755 63459 Wednesday, 8pm – 10pm Alford Badminton Club Alford Community Campus Games Hall George Matthew, 019755 62600 Monday 7-10pm, Thurs 8-10pm Walking Football Club Alford Community Campus Games Hall Thurs 7-8pm. Sandy Robertson 019755 64221 or a.n.robertson@talktalk.net Keig Badminton Club Keig School hall Friday (term time) 8-10pm Roger Buckingham, 019755 64322

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Alford Tai Chi Alford Community Campus, Community Room, Fortnightly on Sundays 11.30-1pm.

019755 63651 Sooyang Do Howe Trinity Church Hall, Tuesday: juniors 6-7pm, Adults 7-8pm. Friday: Mixed class juniors/adults 6-7pm. Conor Roberts, 07934434413, Conor_roberts@ymail.com Alford Tennis Club Jean Peat, 019755 62947 jeanpeat@onetel.com Alford Table Tennis Club Mondays, 8pm, Alford Community Centre

Johnallan468@icloud.com Alford Karate Mondays 6-7pm (P3-7), 7-8.30pm (Adults) Leanne McVeigh’s Dance Studio, Old Station Yard, Alford, AB33 8FD alfordkarate@gmail.com Yoga Alford Community Campus, Community Room, Fridays 9-10am; Keig Community Hall, Thursdays 7:45 to 8:45pm; Lumsden Hall Wednesdays 7:30 to 8:30pm. Julie Webb, 07861 719143, tu�fru�yoga@hotmail.com

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Index of Advertisers to help you find who Acorn Bothy AES Electrical Alford Bistro Alford Roofing Alison Spice Alpine Tree Care Balhousie Care Banchory Spinal Hlth Buannaich Caledonian Therapies Commercial Hotel Concept Designs Craigievar Gdnrs Douneside Health Eric Proctor Esp Bookkeeping Flame Boiler Services Foodbank Forbes Flowers Gillian Frost Grampian Tree Svcs GTM Highland Glen Spas Hilltrek John Watson Boilers K&A Anderson Kirkwood Homes McDonald’s of Alford Monkey Business Munara Cycle Sols NFU Mutual Ronald Hay SG Tree Services Stewart Milne Strachan’s Tax Assist Transform Foot Hlth Tutti Frutti Yoga World Horse Welfare

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26 5 24 31 7 14 6 15 26 13 20 26 31 8 12 26 20 24 9 4 17 2 31 7 5 30 36 23 9 24 35 5 22 18 28 29 33 14 22

AD ES T A R

FULL PAGE 140 x 200mm £108

HALF PAGE 140 x 99mm £55 QUARTER PAGE 98 x 66mm £27

FULL BACK PAGE £135 Design adds £15 to any size advert Book four issues up front and save 10% Book four ads up front in two or more mags and save 20% ~ DEADLINES ~ FEB 1 . MAY 1 . AUG 1 . NOV 1 ~ PUBLISHED ~ MAR JUNE SEPT DEC

Y COP ES DAT

Advertising space is also available in our Aboyne publication, The Fountain, + The Fly, covering Banchory

Get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk Call Cat on 013397 55243 or 07805 731401 www.myriadpro.co.uk . find us on Facebook

WE’RE ON YOUR DOORSTEP Remember when service was truly personal and not just another one size fits all approach?

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For a real conversation about your insurance call us on 01467 697243, or alternatively send an email to Inverurie_agency@nfumutual.co.uk.

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

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