Aboyne Fountain Issue 9 Summer 2017

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The

Fountain A Community Magazine for Aboyne

Inside your Summer issue:

.

Issue 9, Summer 2017

... News ... Groups ... Features ... Seasonal Highlights

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...!

Aboyne Games: Proud Sponsor of the Mace Over the Bar “Drum Major’s Challenge” Try a sample of the Wee Critter at our stall on the Aboyne Games Park Proud sponsors of the Ballater Games Hill Race

By appointment to HM The Queen General Merchants

Main St Aboyne AB34 5HT 013398 86121

2 Golf Rd Ballater AB35 5RE 013397 755452

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By appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales General Merchants

Time to Dazzle Welcome to Issue 9 of The Fountain So The Fountain is two years old – where did that go?

Birthdays sometimes bring jewels (!) and that is certainly a running theme in this issue as we celebrate all that is treasured in the area: the Highland Games’ 150th anniversary features on p6 and Simon Sawers makes the most of The Great Outdoors on p24.

Community events are ramped up for the summer quarter so we have some small features on ArtAboyne and the Royal Deeside Speed Festival.

Business-wise we have some real gems to read about on pages 20 and 27.

The magazine has come a long way since the first in June 2015. The Spring issue was delivered in nearly every door thanks to the efforts of the Scouts and my family, and has brought with it increased interest from advertisers and groups alike.

Welcome to all our new advertisers and thank you to anyone who contributed copy about their group, organisation or event. If you want some space, get in touch.

I hope you enjoy the Summer issue and that you get to enjoy all that the season has to offer. We’ll be back in the Autumn – deadlines can be found below.

Cat Houston – Design/Editor

Copy Dates 2017/18

Autumn Winter Spring Summer

Deadline

Sept 15 Nov 10 Feb 23 May 25

Publication

Oct Dec Mar Jun

6 1 16 15

Contents News 5 Aboyne Games 2017 6 Events 8 Boulers’ New Pitch 10 Cromar Future Group 12 First Responders 15 What Is Going On? 17 The Need For Speed 18 Kraft Works 20 ArtAboyne 2017 22 The Great Outdoors 24 New Kids On The Block 27 Councillors’ Contacts 29 Village Stories 31 It’s All In The Shape 32 Church News 34 Club Directory 36 Advertisers’ Index 38 Copy Dates 38

get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk

or call Cat on 013397 55243 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 Fountain know what you are up to, using the contacts on p3 and 38.

Drop In!

New group gives young autistic adults chance to make friends

A new group has started to provide a place for young adults (18+) on the autistic spectrum or with any kind of disability to meet up and make friends.

Ballater’s Jenny Durward Wright started the group with support from The National Autistic Society after noticing a drop-off in support for her own daughter Kim after she left school.

All are welcome every Wednesday evening 7-9pm upstairs in the canteen/ games area at Aboyne Community Centre to simply hang out, play some games or learn a new craft.

Find out more from the Facebook page or contact Jenny on 07899 877033 or jennydurward@yahoo.com

Support for Breastfeeding

NHS peer volunteers help out

Whether you are pregnant, a new mum or an experienced breastfeeding mum, Aboyne Breastfeeding Buddies baby and toddler group would love to see you.

This is a drop-in baby group where you have a cuppa and chat while the little ones can have a play, roll about and interact with others.

Siblings, friends and family members are also welcome.

The group meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Aboyne’s Midwives Unit, Aboyne Hospital, from 1.30-3pm. NHS peer support is available.

An update on Aboyne Men’s Shed progress: The committee will be submitting building plans for approval during the summer months, when they hope to be able to tell more about what is happening. More details via Facebook or the website www.aboynemensshed.org.uk/

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Village Games Celebrates 150 Years

Photo: Ray Stuart Aboyne Highland Games has been seeking the public’s input as it prepares to shine a spotlight on a century and a half of its history.

The organisers of the Games have called on the public to share their memories and photographs of the iconic event as it prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary later this year. All of the contributions will be included in a special commemorative memory book that will be on display at this summer’s event. For visitors who wish to share their games memories on the day itself, boards will be set up to allow written reminiscences.

Aboyne Highland Games has become a highlight of the Deeside events calendar since its founding in 1867. It has been held annually on the town’s green for the past 150 years, with the only exception being during both world wars. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, 5th August and is once again expected to welcome up to 10,000 visitors.

The inaugural Aboyne Highland Games was held on Saturday, 31 August 1867 following just a month of planning and was well attended. The Aberdeen Journal of Wednesday, 04 September 1867 noted that: “When the time arrived for beginning the competition, several thousands of spectators, of all classes, and all out for a holiday, surrounded the large enclosure on the muir.”

Today, the Games is held on the first Saturday in August and features a packed programme of 95 traditional highland events, including solo and massed piping, highland dancing, light and heavy athletics and fiddle competitions. A popular feature is the 6.8mile hill race that follows part of the Fungle Road and circles the base of Craigendinnie.

With a total combined prize fund of over £13,000 on offer, Aboyne Highland Games attracts some of the country’s leading pipers, dancers and athletes.

After a near 40-year absence, one of the events that featured in the programme of the first Games is being staged to mark the event’s milestone anniversary. Pole vaulting will be included in the Saturday afternoon programme for the first time since 1978. Once a staple of highland games events throughout Scotland, the discipline is now only contested at a handful of games each year.

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Public memories to form commemorative book

Alistair Grant, chairman of Aboyne Highland Games, said: “Aboyne Highland Games has been an important and much loved fixture of the Deeside calendar for a century and a half. We know it has played an important part of many people’s lives and are keen to hear from those with memories of the event, either as spectators, participants or involved in its organisation. Our minute books contain extensive written records of the evolution of the Games, from the initial meeting on Saturday, 27 July 1867 where the idea of holding a highland games in Aboyne was first discussed, through to the present time.

Although factual, these do not capture the people’s story of Aboyne Highland Games, which is vital for our memory book.

“Reaching our 150th anniversary is an important milestone in the history of the Games. As we look back with great fondness and celebrate the history, heritage and culture of the local area, we also look to the future. To welcoming new faces annually on the first Saturday in August who can join us in making history and helping shape the future of this important Deeside event.”

Photo: Lewis Lilburn

Summer Events

Got something to plug? Get in touch

June...

17th – Community Open Day, Victory Hall, 10-12noon, free, lots of fun 17th – Lumphanan Gala 24th – New2You Sale, The Victory Hall, 9.30am-12noon, details p30 30th – School’s out for summer! (7 looooong weeks...)

July...

2nd – Cromar Church Messy Church and Picnic, Tarland Playpark, 11am, details p30 2nd – SpeedFest, Grampian Transport Museum, Alford 16th – Aboyne Sheepdog Trials, field next to River Dee at Potarch, from 8.30am 22nd – ArtAboyne opens, Victory Hall, details p22 25th – Children’s Craft Session, Aboyne Library, 2-3pm, open but booking preferred

August...

4-13th – Ballater Victoria Week 5th – Aboyne Highland Games, Charleston Park, 10.30am> 10th – Ballater Highland Games, Monaltrie Park, 10am> 12th – Tarland Show/Truck Show 19-20th – Deeside Steam Rally, Milton of Crathes 20th – RD Speed Festival, Kincardine Castle, 9.45am-5.15pm

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Photo: Alan Emslie

Birse Boulers delighted with new pitch Great turnout and talent at opening event, writes Ruth Emslie

It has taken just under a year for the Boulers o’Birse to establish a purpose-built playing surface in the car park of Birse & Feughside Church, Finzean.

The Grand Opening in late April was very well attended by club members, and interested parties from the locality and beyond.

There was a strong representation from Ballater Boulers, and many who came along to watch the Reverend Anita Sutter cut the ribbon, were keen to have a go.

It was encouraging to have so many friendly folk come along and join in, on a rather chilly morning.

The youngest participant, playing for the first time and showing talent for the game, is still at primary school.

All the boulers are delighted and grateful for the donations from various sources that helped fund their new boules court, and invite you to come and see what it’s all about.

The regular playing schedule is Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings, however there are sometimes games going on at other times, especially when the weather is fine.

You are warmly welcome to join us.

The Boulers have a new email address – info.boulersobirse@gmail.com – and are playing again on Tuesday evenings 18:30-20:30.

Got some news? get in touch email

catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk

Call Cat Houston on 013397 55243 www.myriadpro.co.uk find us on facebook: The Fountain Magazine

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Got what it takes to inspire?

Science group needs volunteers to expand offering to more youngsters, says Lesley Ellis There is a shortage of science teachers in Scotland, and we are slipping down the educational rankings. Perhaps you’ve not thought of charity work as including support and encouragement to our schools or inspiring youngsters towards science and technology. Well, have another think.

In an age where automation is removing many traditional jobs, you could improve a youngster’s prospects by inspiring them to study science, engineering, maths and technology: the foundation stones to gaining jobs in the new industries – such as space science, renewables, environmental clean-up, new materials, genetics, robotics and artificial intelligence.

The Cromar Future Group have started one after-school science club this year and are trialling a second club with local primary schools. We have been approached to help set up a third. We are, however, constrained by the number of volunteers.

If you can be available in the afternoon, have a background in science, maths or any computing or engineering role, we would love to talk with you. You can run one-off sessions for us or help us run the regular weekly clubs. We also need people who will act as first aiders at sessions, or just keep an eye on children to make sure they stay safe.

Come and make a difference to a child’s life chances, come and inspire a child.

Contact us on info@futuregroup.org.uk

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A little training can go a long way, writes Ruth Emslie Meeting a gentleman whose life was saved by both CPR and the use of an AED, made for a very moving evening recently.

Several TMDC First Responders were part of a Heart Start Grampian training session at Tullynessle, where the community has been assiduous in learning how to use their newly installed AED at their village hall, and how to correctly apply CPR. Briefly, the gentleman collapsed without warning during a fitness class elsewhere, displayed no signs of life, and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation was very swiftly applied by some in the class who knew what to do, whilst an ambulance was called for. CPR was carried out for at least eleven and a half minutes by several of those in attendance, the ambulance crew arrived and used the defibrillator to shock the casualty three times when he – happily – was restored to life.

A hospital stay ensued, and two months later he kindly came with some family members to take part in the training session. Also in attendance were two persons who had witnessed this distressing event, phoned the ambulance and generally helped in the situation BUT did not have the knowledge of CPR to relieve those who were using this skill for real. Now they do, spurred on by this unexpected drama, which could so easily have had a different ending.

To hear this testimony and shake the hand of a heart attack survivor, saved by ordinary people who had made the effort to learn CPR, and the paramedic team with the AED, has been very affecting. CPR

TMDCFR will be offering all the opportunity to have a go at CPR on a training mannikin, as well as how to use a defibrillator, during the summer months on the following dates: 17th June : Lumphanan Gala 24th June : Logie Coldstone 11th August : Tarland Show Look out for our stand, come and say hello, and see how straightforward and worthwhile learning this life-saving skill is.

application and use of an AED are proven life-savers. Have you done any CPR training – and, importantly, updated this training?

Does your community have an AED? (The location where this incident occurred did not.) Do you know where your nearest AED is? If you cannot answer yes to these questions, you could do something about it and RESPOND NOW by phoning 013398 85222 for training session details, or sending an email to the tmdcfr address below.

TMDCFR welcome enquiries from those interested in becoming a Community First Responder, aged 18 and over, preferably with a current valid driving licence, and able to take up duty each month: www.scottishambulance.com or tmdcfr@gmail.com

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What Is Going On In Aboyne?

Community Day aims to show who does what, when and why

Come along and meet your community groups and charities and find out how you can get involved. The local fire engine will be there, plus Aboyne Ices and free BookBug story sessions. Teas are being provided by Aboyne Scouts. There will be free demonstrations and advice and a wide range of local groups represented, with over 27 stalls.

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Victory Hall, Aboyne : Saturday 17 June : 10-12noon Lots for all ages : Entry is free : Refreshments available The Fountain Magazine and Badger will also be there...!

Rewarding Volunteers

Recognition is important, says AVA’s Aileen Longino Are you part of a community group or local charity? One question which always comes up is how do we keep our volunteers.

It is very simple – don’t overburden them with too much in one go. They may be keen but you don’t want to put them off.

The same goes for long-serving volunteers – volunteer fatigue is very real!

One part of the solution is to recognise what they do for you. With National Volunteer Week just finished it is very important to praise volunteers throughout the year. You can do this in a more formal way by presenting them with a recognised Volunteer Award.

At Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action (AVA) we take great pride in giving out AVA awards to hundreds of volunteers throughout the year across Aberdeenshire.

Certificates are presented and for longer service we have presentation pin badges.

We are always delighted to hold a small or large awards ceremony, tea party or surprise presentation.

There is no cost to your community group or charity. If you would like to find out more on how to recognise wonderful volunteering in your community please contact Aileen.Longino@avashire.org.uk or phone 07824 096531.

Speed Festival returns with special guest Largest meeting of super vehicles in the North-East is gathering pace

The countdown has begun until the Royal Deeside Speed Festival returns to Kincardine O’Neil and the organisers of the prestigious event are busy carrying out important groundworks, organising attractions and trade stands and developing the itinerary for the day, ready to welcome enthusiastic spectators through the gates on the 20th August.

Promising to expand on the success of 2016, the event will showcase the largest gathering of rare supercars, exciting performance cars, motorbikes and historic racing cars anywhere in the North East – perhaps even Scotland.

Following the same format as 2016, the main attraction of the event will be a demonstration speed Hillclimb which shall be complemented by a range of high-quality trade stands, motoring attractions, off-road rides and the Soapbox Derby!

The picturesque castle estate of Kincardine Castle will also play host to a selection of car clubs along with a local food, drink and craft festival.

As well as the motorsports action The Royal Deeside Speed Festival offers family friendly attractions such as a kids’ funfair, driving simulators, and The Clan stunt bike show.

This year the event is also pleased to welcome British Touring Car Champion Gordon Shedden as a special guest, looking forward to showing off his skills on the hill!

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Hidden gem enables supported adults to produce and sell items Tucked away in Aboyne’s industrial estate on Low Road, a fabulous little venture is giving adults with learning disabilities the opportunity to create beautiful crafts and sell them on.

Part of the Scolty Day Centre initiative, Kraftwork has been operating out of Unit 1 for around a year.

Kraftwork provides its users with day service opportunities for training in all aspects of retail, so they gain confidence from assisting customers in the shop and other tasks. Support is also given to build on everyday living and social skills.

Courses are provided to enable individuals to design and produce craft items and encourage creativity and selfexpression; items created include candle holders, plant pots, pot stands, wooden decorative items and seasonal gifts.

Pallets are big business here and form the greatest part of what the team uses to produce a range of ornaments and useful household items. The pallets are donated from various sources and nothing is wasted, with any spare bits made into kindling to sell in the shop too (which is good to know...)

Handmade items by various crafters from across Aberdeenshire are also for sale and the team’s decorated horseshoes for a variety of celebrations have proved to be a popular must-have.

There are lots of beautiful things here and all well within budget – make sure you pay the shop a visit to treat yourself or find that perfect gift (or some kindling!).

Kraftwork is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm and welcomes shoppers and browsers any time between those times.

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Firewood also available James Anderson Bridgefoot, Glenmuick, Ballater 013397 55997 / 07821 746756 weejim03@live.co.uk www.weejim.com

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Every year 40 or more North East of Scotland artists are invited to join the committee of 10 to host the ArtAboyne exhibition in a most beautiful and historic venue.

All the work is for sale and once sold is replaced with new work which makes for an ever-changing exhibition for the visitors.

As the exhibition is manned by the artists themselves it is a great opportunity to meet them. As most artists work in isolation, it also gives them a chance to get to know each other.

There is an area set aside for refreshments, the ideal place for a quiet cup of coffee, tea and biscuits while enjoying the art on display.

Paintings, photography, jewellery, ceramics, woodwork, textiles, prints and cards etc.

Exhibition Open daily 10am until 6pm, 22nd July to 12th August. FREE ENTRY

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Books that make you feel happier!

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Challenging The Great Outdoors Go For Gold’s Simon Sawers travels from west to east to find paradise

Photo: Simon Sawers Each May about 300 hardy souls start from various points on the west coast and head east, backpacking across Scotland. They are participating in the The Great Outdoors Challenge, which is a personal challenge, not a race, started by the well-known mountaineer and writer Hamish Brown in the 1980s. You may well have seen scruffy and smelly people with large backpacks wandering around Aboyne, Alford and Ballater recently and these would have probably have been some of the challengers in this event.

I am lucky to be fit enough and to have the time to participate and this year was my fifth “crossing”, when I started in Ardrishaig on the Kintyre peninsula and finished in Arbroath. According to my satellite tracker I covered 367km in distance and ascended a total of 7,574m in height. Must be mad!

May is the perfect month for walking and hiking in the hills as the weather is often kind and the midgies are yet to emerge, wild flowers are prolific and the birds are chirping - this year was no exception. Hearing the cuckoo is very common but how many of us have actually seen one? I was lucky enough to see a cuckoo for the first time up close, as on two occasions one flew past within a few feet, cuckooing for all its worth!

It’s amazing who you meet in the hills as well. One wet and misty day in the middle of a remote glen I met two people coming the other way, the first people

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I had seen for two days. We stopped to chat and it turned out they were on a personal pilgrimage walking from St Andrews to Iona as the father of one of them was instrumental in the founding of the Iona community and they were commemorating this. He gave me a shell as a token or talisman which will always remind me of our chance meeting. I assumed he made it across alright.

Why do we do this? Well the full answer is long and complex but in essence it’s about the challenge, about stretching yourself, the adventure and not quite knowing how things are going to work out, being self-contained and self-sufficient, just focusing on our primary needs of food, shelter and warmth, and having an extended period to relax and reflect on life. It’s all very satisfying despite being tough and uncomfortable at times.

So, next time you see a scruffy, smelly person wandering around in May, don’t assume they’re a tramp! Ask if they are a TGOer and they will probably chat for ages!

This is the sixth in a series of articles about hillwalking. Simon Sawers is an avid hillwalker having completed all the Munros and is a qualified Mountain Leader. He runs Go for Gold! Expeditions, providing Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and Golf DofE residentials for young people. www.goforgoldexpeditions.co.uk

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New Kids on the Block Lease of life for Business Unit 5

We are delighted to welcome another creative business to Aboyne. Tangletree Studio has recently taken up residence in Huntly Road’s Business Park.

Director Jenni Gibbons told The Fountain: “Tangletree Studio is a new artistic hub in Aboyne for Aberdeenshire artists and crafters. We have a small art gallery and shop selling a varied selection of work from paintings, jewellery and bags to fabric and chalk paint.

“Alongside the gallery and shop we also have a dedicated workshop which is used exclusively for classes ranging from papercutting to poetry. Our aim is to provide a place for local artists to exhibit and sell their work as well as pass on their knowledge through workshops and encourage others to start their creative journey. If you’re a local artist or crafter we’d love to hear from you, we can help you build your business no matter what stage you’re at.”

“We also provide design services in the following areas: Business Branding, Website Design and Development, Brochures and Leaflets, Poster Design, Photo Restoration and Technical Illustration. Email designs@ tangletreestudio.co.uk”.

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The very best of luck to all new start-ups. Have you started a new business in the Aboyne area? Want a mention? Get in touch.

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Fountain

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Some More New Kids On The Block...

We welcome Ellington Kitchens to Station Square

Station Square has another new occupant... It’s nearly a full house!

Peter Ellington of Ellington Kitchens opened his showroom in early April, designed and fitted out with the help of his new business partner and established local joiner, Craig Mennie.

The showroom is open Tuesday to Friday 9.30am-5pm and Saturday 9.30am-4pm.

You can pop in, call 07788 316144 or email peter@ellingtonkitchens. com for more information.

Peter and Craig The very best of luck to all new start-ups.

Have you started a new business in the Aboyne area? Want a mention? Get in touch.

Councillors'

Contacts

Cllr Peter Argyle

01339 882973 07801 900843 cllr.p.argyle@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

These are your Ward 15 councillors

Cllr Geva Blackett

01339 741541 07876 475269 cllr.g.blackett@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

Cllr Paul Gibb 07388 956148 cllr.p.gibb@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk

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News Round-up Cromar Church is holding a ‘Messy Church’ Service followed by a picnic on Sunday 2nd July, 11am on Tarland Play Park. There’ll be a gazebo, with seating for all, bring your own refreshments for your picnic. They hope to have the use of the facilities in the changing rooms.

The next New2You sale takes place on Saturday 24th June, 9.30am-12noon at The Victory Hall.

Entrance £2 adult, 50p child includes refreshments. Sale of quality second-hand clothes and items from age five through to adults! Raising money for Aboyne and Kincardine O’Neil Primary Schools. See Facebook for updates and details or to get a seller number email new2youaboyne@ gmail.com.

The Tennis Club is celebrating again after securing all the funding needed for its planned courts and floodlights renewal project.

The WREN landfill community trust made an award of a £50,000 grant towards the project. The club is very grateful to WREN and its other funders: sportscotland (£50,000), Tennis Scotland (£10,000) and EB Scotland landfill community trust (£10,000) for their support.

These grants, along with the club’s own contribution of £50,000 from its ongoing tireless fundraising, is enough to give the go ahead for the project. The club expects to award contracts for the work in June, with execution starting in August.

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The Aboyne and Deeside Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. It has entertained Deesiders with activities as varied as folk, classical music, opera in a bus and Tai Chi. A regular feature are the much loved “Country House” events and the use of picturesque locations.

This year’s festival again includes classical music, jazz, folk literature, fine dining, art and events in two local country houses and the lovely Coull Church.

2017 is also the 150th anniversary of the Aboyne Games. To celebrate this the festival will be hosting an event in partnership with the Aboyne Games Committee. Friday 4th August is the date for this year’s main event when Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham will perform in a marquee on the Aboyne Green.

The Festival runs from the 31st July to 12th August 2017, together with four events outside these core dates.

Further details of the programme can be found on the festival website www. aboyneanddeesidefestival.org.uk.

Tickets can also be purchased online there or by phone from Ticketsource on 03336 663366.

We look forward to welcoming friends old and new to this year’s events.

Village stories come out in force Heritage event attracted hundreds of participants to build archive

Deeside Heritage Society have made a terrific start to their project to create an online archive for the village.

Aboyne – Your Village Story is an initiative to establish an online resource which records the history of Aboyne in terms of photographs, memorabilia, records, artefacts, stories and memories.

A community event at the Victory Hall at the end of May drew 221 visitors, and heard fascinating stories and recollections. Numerous prized photos and artifacts were brought out from the attics in what was hailed a “great village community day�.

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Borders? It’s all in the shape Classic Abode’s Moira Gash shares tips on producing flower beds If you are creating new flower beds or wanting to rejuvenate existing borders then it is worth remembering that formal beds are oval, circular, square or rectangular and have regularly curving or straight edges, whereas informal beds have irregular shapes and irregularly curved edges. A formal border is usually one in which the plants are set out in geometric patterns, whereas informal beds generally have the plants in drifts (irregular clusters).

It is best to avoid star- or triangular-shaped beds as these are difficult to plant the points of such figures. Also make the curved edges as sweeping as possible if the lawn runs alongside a bed as this will make cutting the grass much easier. Plants for the beds will come down to personal taste but perhaps worth remembering that mixed beds/borders can create effective year round interest. These are ones which can contain any kind of plant, including trees, shrubs as well as the more commonly grown herbaceous perennials, bedding plants, annuals, biennials and bulbous plants. So whatever your style, do it your way and create your individual garden. www.classicabode.co.uk

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Victory Hall Ballater Road

Aboyne

Thursdays 5.30 & 7.30pm see www.slimmingworld.co.uk for more details

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Counting Blessings Churches’ Letter

Dear Friends, We are fast approaching midsummer’s day, the turning point of the year. Around us Deeside is in full bloom, following on from a warm May. On the surface, things seem peaceful. Yet we are living in times that seem increasingly uncertain. With the recent bombing in Manchester, the massacre of Christians in Egypt, and our own political uncertainty of election time and Brexit preparations, it can seem as though the world is shaking beneath our feet. It is easy to be afraid, to worry, to wonder what will happen next. At times we may even find ourselves questioning whether there is anything good or positive happening in the world. In such circumstances, we have a choice, as individuals and as a community.

We can live in fear, if we so choose. It is far easier to hide inside our own homes,

to stick to our own friends, to our own safe places. To quote the rhetoric you hear on the television or read on social media. That often feels the safe way. Just to go with the flow, to move with the crowd, to agree with the loudest voices.

We can live in freedom, if we so choose.

We can open our doors and let the world in.

We can live lives of tolerance and friendship, lives which are open to the new. We can speak out against voices of isolationism, against racism and injustice. We can do what we can to influence the ways of the world.

In the Bible, Jesus tells us to love each other as we love ourselves. Whether you believe in God or not, that seems a good way to live your life. Can you imagine what our communities would be like if we truly tried to love and care for each other? If we spent time and energy building each other up, not dragging each other down?

If instead of posting on social media, or staying inside watching the television, we

Summer Club – Guardians of Ancora...

Aboyne-Dinnet Church offers treasure seekers some summer fun Aboyne-Dinnet’s annual summer club will run this year under the overall theme of Treasure Seekers.

The venue will be the Aboyne-Dinnet Church Hall on Huntly Road, Aboyne (next to the playpark). The Club will run Monday 14 August to Friday 18 August 2017 from 10:00 to 12:15 hours.

This is for all children who in the 2017/18 term will attend primary schools, P1 to P7.

Each day the club will feature Bible stories, drama, quizzes, movie clips, interesting crafts and games. The children will also be given a snack during break time.

To cover the costs of resources and crafts, we ask for a donation of £10 per child per week or if attending for less than the five days, £2.50 per day, payable on arrival

on the first day. The maximum cost per family if there are more than two children will be £20.

The children from Aboyne, Tarland and Logie Coldstone primary schools will be given a registration form prior to breaking up for their summer holidays. The children don’t have to bring anything but enthusiasm and perhaps a bit of fantasy to make the story of the Guardians of Ancora work for them: Long ago, Ancora’s Hall of Memory was full of stories. They were told in front of the Spire of Light and powered the bright light that shone over the city. But these stories were lost – stolen by those who didn’t want anyone to hear them. The Guildmaster started to recruit Guardians to find and

went outside and spoke to people? If we worked for the good of all, for acceptance and tolerance?

All this begins with the individual. We all have power. We all have the ability to choose our actions and our words. Slowly and gradually, we can make a difference in this world. What will you choose to do this summer?

With every blessing, Rev Frank Ribbons, Rev Vittoria Hancock, Father Chris Brannan.

St Thomas’s News with Vittoria Hancock

St Thomas’s has had a busy time over the last few months. We marked Lent in style, launching our Lent Appeal on the first Sunday of March with a special service looking at the work of our chosen charity, Toilet Twinning. One of our younger members of the congregation, Christiaan helped us to start by feeding the ‘toilet’

with pennies. A new meaning to the phrase ‘Spend a Penny!’ Over the course of Lent, the community of St Thomas raised enough money for three toilet blocks in developing countries – our most successful Lent appeal ever.

The augmented choir held a concert on Palm Sunday – a rendition of The Saviour

by William Lloyd Webber, which was very well attended and much enjoyed. For our Easter Saturday bonfire this year we joined our friends at the Aboyne Dinnet Church for the welcoming of the Easter light and then hot-dogs in the hall.

Anthony de Winton of Hopewell, Tarland, kindly opened his garden to the public at the end of May, to raise funds for St Thomas’ and for the Salvation Army.

His rhododendron walk was at its best; the swans were nesting on the lake; and the woodland walk was full of the glories of spring. Visitors were entertained by Andy Linklater on the violin while they consumed tea and cake.

protect these stories, and make the Spire shine once more.

The club will be run and supervised by volunteers from Aboyne-Dinnet Parish Church and will be based on the holiday club programme of Scripture Union.

If anyone would like to find out more, please email Sarah on summerclub@ aboyne-dinnet-cromar-churches.org.uk

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Club Directory

This directory is compiled using Aberdeenshire Council’s website information. 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.

ABOYNE

1st Aboyne Brownies Anne Silcock, 013398 86332 annefiona@aol.com1s 1st Aboyne Cubs Bernie Cassie, 013398 85390 bmkh67@yahoo.co.uk 1staboynescoutgroup.org.uk/ Badminton Club Richard Seeber, 013398 89307 rseeber861@gmail.com www.aboynebadminton.org.uk Canoe Club Chris Redmond, 013398 86241 aboynecanoeclub@gmail.com aboynecanoeclub.co.uk/ Garden Club Jim Campbell, 013398 85511 campbej9@yahoo.co.uk Golf Club Allan Taylor, 013398 86328 aboynegolfclub@btconnect.com www.aboynegolfclub.co.uk Judo Club James McBeath, 013398 86049 mjmcbeath@btinternet.com Library Book Group Fiona Robertson, 013398 86004 aboyne.library@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Mother & Toddler Group Friday, 10am-11.30am Deeside Community Centre aboynetoddlers@hotmail.co.uk

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Ladies Probus Club Barbara Thompson, 013398 83303 bathompson@btinternet.com Probus Club Eddy Horton aboyne_probus_sec@btinternet.com Rotary Club of Aboyne & U-Deeside Dr Douglas Riach, 013398 85488 douglas.riach@btinternet.com Scottish Country Dancing Ruth Housden, 013398 81613 thousden@gotadsl.co.uk Sub Aqua Club Gary Shire, 07443439453 gary_shire@yahoo.co.uk Sooyang Do Martial Art Colleen McIver, 07889850229 colleen_mciver@msn.com Also in Torphins Tennis Club aboynetennis@gmail.com Twinning Association Maureen Forsyth, 013398 86704 moforsyth@gmail.com Deeside Camera Club David Packer, 01330822666 davidpacker00@gmail.com www.deesidecameraclub.org/ Deeside Gliding Club Glen Douglas, 013398 85339 office@deesideglidingclub.co.uk www.deesideglidingclub.co.uk Aboyne Highland Games Morag McBeath, 013398 86049 morag.mcbeath@btinternet.com

OUTWITH

Cromar & District Horticultural Society Mrs Jess Gibb, 013398 81277 Cromar Future Group Lesley Ellis, 01339 880062 info@futuregroup.org.uk futuregroup.org.uk/ Cromar History Group Lesley Ellis, 01339 880062 info@cromarhistorygroup.org.uk www.cromarhistorygroup.org.uk

Finzean SWRI Louise Counsell, 01330 850323 louisecounsell@ymail.com Lumphanan Golf Club Joyce Wilson, 013398 83480 secretary@lumphanangolfclub.co.uk www.lumphanangolfclub.co.uk Lumphanan Whist Club Irene Thomson, 013398 83365 Tarland Curling Club Lesley Farquharson, 013398 81534 Tarland Golf Club Carole Foreman, 013398 81000 secretary@tarlandgolfclub.co.uk www.tarlandgolfclub.co.uk Tarland Playgroup 013398 81193 tarland.playgroup@gmail.com Tuesday Stravaigers (Walks) Anne Heath, 013398 81558 abheath@hotmail.com Upper Deeside Art Society Rona Mitchell udasmemsec@btinternet.com www.udas.org.uk/ Boulers o’ Birse boulersobirse@gmail.com Winter: 10-12 Saturdays, Birse & Feughside Church, Finzean. Come the lighter nights we revert to Tuesday evenings.

Index of Advertisers to help you find who...

Aaron Prop Services 28 Abs Electrical Servs.

9 Banchory Podiatry 14 Cairngorm Crafts 23 Classic Abode 32 Commercial Hotel 40 Concept Wetrooms 16 Deeside VOS 4 DWR Architecture 33 Edward J Emslie 26 First Domestics 16 Flame Boilers 11 Fraser Taxi 13 Gerry Robb 8 Happy Bookshop 23 Highland Glen Spas 4 Hilltrek 9

Jackie Davies 26/31 jenflo Hypnotherapy 28 John Troup 11 Julian Barclay 19 K&A Anderson 33 Peterculter Pharmacy 37 Pittendreigh Prop.

31 Rory Finlayson 16 Ross Ferguson Joinery 9 RDSF 39 S Anderson Fabrication 13 Slimming World 33 Speedwell Framing 21 Strachan’s 2 tangletree Studio 27 Tornaveen Plumbing 11 Wee Jim Landscapes 21

your name in print!

The Fountain represents a unique opportunity for you to promote your business to a targetted area at reasonable cost. Ad rates start at £25 for a quarter page.

2,000 copies are distributed through the doors of residences in the village, around many prominent spots in the local community and within businesses willing to stock it.

Geographically it covers Aboyne and the surrounding areas – from Dinnet to Kincardine O’Neil, from Dess to Finzean, inc Tarland & Lumphanan.

Additional exposure will be given to advertisers and supporters through a Facebook page and a related website. If you would like to advertise your business/venture in The Fountain, get in touch. Prices and copy dates are listed below; 10% discount on four issues.

Advertising space is also available in our Alford publication, The BULLetin, at the same rates

Copy/Ads Dates 2017/18

Deadline Publication Autumn Sept 15 Oct 6 Winter Nov 10 Dec 1 Spring Feb 23 Mar 16 Summer May 25 Jun 15 Get ahead. Get in.

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The Commercial TARLAND

At The Commercial, ‘big chain’ mentality is definitely ‘off ’ the menu.

Instead, you will find an intriguing mix of Scottish regional cuisine and modern international classics, all prepared in-house using the best of available regional produce.

The full menu, along with snacks and light meals, is available all day, and a children’s menu is also available with under-2s eating free.

Warm, friendly service in the newly refurbished restaurant, cosy lounge bar or attractive beer garden ensures The Commercial is one not to be missed on your travels.

We are situated just a five-minute drive from the A93 at Aboyne or why not stroll the new ‘Tarland Way’ walk then relax and enjoy a meal or light refreshment?

Food Served Daily 12 til 9pm Sunday Roast £12.95 Group Bookings and Private Functions Welcome New Summer Menu now being served

013398 81922

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