The Banchory Fly
Banchory and District Round Table
Bonfire & Fireworks
Christmas Lights
Switch-On
Banchory Heritage
High Street in the 50’s
River Dee Radio
BOA
Banchory Outdoor and Active
Call Autumn’s
Welcome to Issue 24 of The Fly and welcome to Autumn!
Ah, the crisp air of autumn! It’s that time of year when the leaves turn into nature’s own fireworks display, and we at The Banchory Fly are thrilled to bring you an edition that captures the very essence of this beautiful season.
In this issue, we bring you news from River Dee Radio and a feature on Scottish dance. Feeling nostalgic? We invite you to revisit your childhood with our piece on conkers - yes, that game where you were either a champion or had a string of bad luck! As the nights draw in, we’ll be lighting up the town with our annual Bonfire and Fireworks Night. And as we approach the festive season, join us for the Christmas Light Switch-On.
If you have ideas for features or regular content that should be included in these pages, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
So, wrap up warm, grab this issue, and let’s embrace autumn together.
Happy reading!
Zita Szekeres Design/Editor
On the Cover
Autumnal Sunset at Scolty
By The Images
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE
Aberdeenshire South Foodbank
AJC homes
Albyn School
Archway Charity ASPC
Banchory Business Centre
Banchory Caravan Park
Banchory Health & Therapies Practice
Banchory Scottish Country Dance Club
Banchory Spinal Health
Barry Grant Property Services
Bon accord HypnoTherapy
Brian Smith Funeral Services
Clean LIving Ofen Care
CTEN
D. Milne Plumbing & Heating
Deeside Dance Centre
Deeside Stroke Group
DL Private Practice
Ellington Mennie
Fiddes Architects
Fiona Murray Therapy
Fountain Dental Group
Frocksetc Dress Design
Grampian Talking Therapy
Hammond Heating Solutions
Hillview Windows and Doors
Banchory
i-Protech Technology Limited
Inchmarlo Golf Centre
JRK Motorhomes
Julian Barclay
Kippie Lodge
Kirkwood Homes
Kirstin Ejsmont Business Law
Lava Jewellery Design
Mackinnons solicitors
Northwood north east Oven999
Silver Line Painting
SlugPlum
Speedwell Farming
Studio 1
Sunshine Nursery
Tax Assist Accountants
The Images
Woodend Sustainable Homes
We are always delighted to welcome new businesses to our community magazine. Our primary aim is to provide valuable services and unwavering support to local enterprises. It is through the commitment of our advertisers that we are able to bring this magazine to life.
To everyone who has submitted, contributed and supported us, non of this could have been done without you.
Thank you!
From Schoolyards to Championships: The Timeless Tradition of Conkers
By The Images
A Brief History
In the heart of British autumn, as the leaves turn and the air crisps, children across the UK eagerly await the fall of the horse chestnut’s fruit, known affectionately as conkers. This traditional game is deeply embedded in British culture.
The game of conkers, where the toughest horse chestnut seeds clash in a battle of strength, skill, and a dash of luck, is more than just a pastime - it’s a rite of passage. Under the watchful eyes of autumnal skies, players test their mettle in a game that combines strategy, preparation, and the time-honoured tradition of friendly competition.
The game of conkers, as we know it today, was first documented on the Isle of Wight in 1848 it traces its roots back to the 19th century, though its spirit might be as old as the hills. However, its origins might be linked to earlier games played with hazelnuts or snail shells, suggesting a continuity of this competitive spirit through the ages. The term “conker” itself might derive from the French word “cogner,” meaning to hit, reflecting the game’s core action. Horse chestnut trees, from which conkers are harvested, were introduced to Britain from the Balkans in the late 16th century, setting the stage for what would become a beloved tradition.
Preparation: The Conker’s Journey to Battle
First, one must select the mightiest conker. The preparation of a conker is both an art and a science. Not just any seed will do; it needs to be hard, shiny, and with the spirit of a Highland
warrior. Some soak their conkers in vinegar or bake them to harden, though traditionalists argue that the best conkers are those kissed only by the autumn air. A hole is drilled through the conker, a string is threaded through, knotted to prevent it from slipping off and the conker is ready for combat.
The Rules of Game
Two players stand, a metre apart (40 inches), each with a conker dangling on a string. The aim? To smash your opponent’s conker into oblivion. Each player takes turns swinging their conker at the other, aiming for that sweet, satisfying crack. If a conker completes a full circle after being struck, it’s ‘round the world’, granting another go. The game continues until one conker lies shattered, its spirit broken, while the victor’s conker inherits the defeated’s score, plus one for good measure.
Safety First, or Maybe Second
championships have witnessed everything from conker shortages due to adverse weather to the crowning of international champions, proving that the love for conkers knows no borders.
Now, here’s where things get interesting. In this modern age, where health and safety reign supreme, playing conkers has taken on a new look. Imagine kilted warriors, not with swords, but with full-face helmets, heavy-duty gloves, and safety goggles, all for a game with nuts. This gear might seem excessive, but it’s all in the spirit of keeping the tradition alive while ensuring the players can still see, hear, and feel the thrill of victory.
The Conker Championships: More Than Just a Game
The World Conker Championships aren’t just about the game; they’re a celebration of community, charity, and spectacle.
Over the years, this event has not only entertained but also significantly contributed to sight impairment charities, demonstrating how a simple game can create profound impacts. The
Across Scotland, and indeed the world, conker championships draw crowds, not just for the game but for the spectacle. Here, conkers are selected with the scrutiny of a jeweller eyeing a diamond.
A Disclaimer
And now, a word of caution: If you decide to engage in this ancient battle of conkers, do so at your own risk. Helmets, gloves, and goggles are recommended, but remember, no amount of safety gear can protect against the sheer embarrassment of losing to a particularly hardy conker. So, play on, but if you end up with a black eye or a bruised ego, don’t come crying to us. After all, in the game of conkers, as in life, sometimes you’re the conker, and sometimes you’re the nut.
so navigate the property jungle with aspc as your guide
There’s a certain magic in the air each year as the gatherscommunity for Banchory’s annual Bonfire and Fireworks Night.
The dazzling fireworks and crackling flames bring together families, friends, and neighbours in a night of warmth and camaraderie.
But as well as being a celebration of togetherness, the visual spectacle is also a vital fundraiser for local charities and projects.
look forward to, and it’s always great to see so many people out enjoying themselves and helping to support the good causes that the money raised on the night is used for.
“We are hoping this year’s event brings out big crowds once again for another fun evening.
“This is the Round Table’s biggest event of the year, where all profits go directly into our community, so we hope everyone enjoys the night and gives generously to support local groups.
Organised by volunteers from the Banchory and District Round Table, this year’s event is planned for Saturday, November 2, with the bonfire set to be ignited at 6:30pm ahead of the grand fireworks display at 7:00pm.
There will also be music, food stalls, and lightup toys available to buy for kids.
Each year sees more than 5,000 people gather for the family-friendly event, with the size of the bonfire — and the sheer number of fireworks — never failing to surprise those who’ve not been before.
Round Table member Cameron Berry, who is leading the planning for this year’s Bonfire and Fireworks Night, said, “It’s always a really special event, and we can’t thank the community enough for turning out in such huge numbers each year to support it and enjoy the night.
“We know it’s an evening the people of Banchory always
“A huge thanks to all who volunteer and sponsor to make the event so successful year on year!”
Thanks to the generosity of both attendees and sponsors, all proceeds from the event each year go directly back into the community to support local causes.
Last year’s event raised more than £13,000, benefiting a diverse range of organizations including Deeside Bike Collective, Movement Evolution, Banchory West Badminton Club, Torphins Scouts, Maryculter Carriage Driving for the Disabled, Hill of Banchory School Ceilidh, Play for All Banchory, and Banchory Outdoor and Active.
This year, the organisers hope to surpass that figure, but they can’t do it without your support. Your presence on the night, and your donations, make a real difference to the community.
Sponsorships also play a vital role in covering the costs of organizing such a large-scale event, ensuring that the maximum amount of money raised can go directly to local causes.
Sponsors can have their names mentioned on posters and media for the event, and can also display banners at the event itself. It’s a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and to be recognised for your contribution. mentioned on posters and media for the
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please get in touch with the Banchory and District Round Table at banchoryrt@gmail.com
Ahead of the event, Banchory and District Round Table volunteers will be accepting drop-offs of combustible items for the bonfire from members of the community, as well as arranging collections from local businesses. If you would like to arrange a collection or drop-off, or have questions about what we can accept, please email banchoryrt@gmail.com
The Banchory and District Round Table is the local chapter of a global organisation which runs fun social events for men aged 18-45.
Recent activities organised by members in Banchory and the local area have included everything from learning parkour, clay pigeon shooting and casual walks up Scolty, to riverside barbecues and nights in the pub.
The Banchory and District Round Table is always looking for new members, so if you’d like to join — or would like to attend one of
the events to try it out — please get in touch through the Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/BanchoryRT or by emailing banchoryrt@gmail.com
Photography by Angus Murray
Photography by TheImages.co.uk
ELECTION OVER (until 2026!)
As the UK breathes a sigh of relief that the General Election is well and truly over, here are six curious facts from the world of the ballot box.
COMPUTER SAYS ‘YES’ The practice of setting up voting booths in primary schools must seem rather quaint to Estonians, who have been able to vote online in parliamentary elections since 2007. Using the ID card/pin held by every citizen, with built-in anonymity safeguards, last year’s elections saw more than half of all votes cast online for the first time.
HEAD COUNTS The word poll. of Germanic origin, can be traced back to the 13th century in the UK when it meant “head’. When crowds gathered to vote on local issues, the result was determined by counting heads and so, by the 17th century, ‘poll’ had come to mean ‘vote’.
RETAINING THEIR MARBLES Since gaining Independence in 1965, Gambia has championed a novel method of voting, originally introduced to sidestep the nation’s high illiteracy rates. Each voter is handed a marble which they drop into a barrel representing the candidate they support. As democracy has flourished in recent years, the increasing number of barrels has become a challenge for election officials. Yet many Gambians are proud of their Idiosyncratic voting method, most recently used in the 2021 election.
ITCHY FEET South America offers a wealth of election stories - In Brazil alone, a rhinoceros won 100,000 votes in the São Paulo city elections of 1958, and in 2010 a clown called Tirtrica (Grumpy) secured more votes in the national Congress elections than any other
candidate. But perhaps strangest of all was the Incident in Ecuador in 1967 when, following a clever ad campaign, the residents of Picoaza overwhelmingly voted in a foot powder called Pulvapies as their Mayor.
DODGE THE DEAD CAT You may think that modern British political debate can sink to the gutter, but it was once much worse. Candidates holding rallies in public places in the 18th and 19th century had to shout above often rowdy crowds - and it was not unusual for campaigners to be pelted with stones, mud, dead animals and even excrement.
KING OF CORRUPTION The 1927 Liberian election saw Charles D B King of the True Whig Party sweep back Into power for a third term. registering 230,000 votes, well ahead of his opponent, Thomas J R. Faulkner. The result was all the more astonishing given that the country had had just 15,000 registered voters. King, who had a flair for corruption and nepotism, later resigned following a slavery scandal.
(Extract from Mensa Magazine July/August 2024)
YOUTH PERSONALTRAINING
K I P P I E L O D G E M E M B E R S H I P S A V A I L A B L E B O O K Y O U R T O U R T O D A Y K I P P I E L O D G E . C O M
Further homes released in Banchory
INCHMARLO
This prestigious Deeside development offers a variety of outstanding 3, 4, 5 and 6 bedroom homes, each enjoying a superior build quality and internal specification, synonymous with the Kirkwood brand.
Surrounded by picturesque woodlands and walking trails in the heart of Royal Deeside, while being conveniently located just walking distance to the popular town of Banchory, Inchmarlo certainly offers the best of both worlds. Residents can easily avail of the fantastic amenities within this thriving town and commute to Aberdeen city in under 30 minutes.
Winner of the Best Showhome category at The Herald Property Awards 2023, our magnificent 5 bedroom ‘Gullane’ showhome at Inchmarlo highlights the outstanding level of luxury and specification on offer at this development. From the 207m² ‘Skene’ - a brand new addition to the Kirkwood portfolio - to the executive 224m² ‘Drumallan’, our newly released homes at Inchmarlo enjoy an array of stylish and luxurious features, each offering expertly-designed internal layouts for those who refuse to compromise on space or quality.
Scan now to find your luxury home
The Christmas Tree Light Switch
On has been going for nearly 20 years. Starting from humble beginnings as a single event in Scott Skinner square, it has since steadily grown to become a full weekend of events attracting visitors from all over Deeside.
In every sense this is an event run by the community for the community and relies
on the support of Banchory Community Trust, the Community Council, Banchory Business Association, Banchory Show, and Run Banchory whose members all give up their free time to help organise and marshal this event.
The annual event now takes place in Bellfield Car Park which allows more scope to put on a far larger and comprehensive celebration. The event is now called ‘The Banchory Christmas Festival’ and is spread over three days at the end of November and follows the mantra of Fun, Families, Food and Festivities.
This year it all starts on the 22nd of November. The evening will begin at 16.00 with 3 hours of entertainment including the Santa Reindeer parade, Music, Dance, Singing, Fire Brigade, Tractor run, Pipe band, Street Food, Face Painting and many others. The day will culminate with the Christmas Tree Light Switch-On. Saturday 23rd November is the popular Christmas Craft Fair, and it is all wrapped up with the Santa Fun run on Sunday 24th.
the year through sale of The Banchory Calendar and raff le tickets, so please support us by purchasing the Banchory Calendars and raff le tickets nearer the time.
A big thank you goes to our main sponsor McCombie Builders and all the other local businesses who support these celebrations by donating equipment, time and raff le prizes.
As the event grows so does the need for funding. In order to keep the event free to everyone to enjoy, we work hard to fundraise during
We are always looking for new ideas and support from volunteers so please get in touch via our Facebook page if you think you can help.
Photographs
Hello! I have recently opened Kirstin Ejsmont Business Law; Very excited to be part of Banchory High Street and am looking forward to assisting local businesses with their burning business matters. Core office hours are 9:30am to 2:30pm Tuesday to Friday but of course available out with those times to meet or chat depending upon your availability.
www.kebusinesslaw.co.uk
kirstin@kebusinesslaw.co.uk
By Eileen West
Alistair Cooke said, “I prefer radio to TV because the pictures are better.
More people than ever before in the UK are listening to radio according to the latest figures from RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience Research) which means surely that more of you on Deeside are tuning in. But do you know that Deeside has its very own radio station … River Dee Radio.
We’re also looking for some help funding our new website and we’d be very interested to hear from anyone with ideas in that area.
We are an enthusiastic, community spirited band of volunteers who present and broadcast a range of programmes. Name your favourite music genre - we’ll have a show to suit you from jazz, soul, country, classic rock, Scottish country, golden oldies and classical, there’s a regular community programme too featuring conversations with local people, what’s happening on beautiful Deeside, a bit of chat and more great music.
featuring
Listen to us on the River Dee Radio app, M-X Cloud and through our Facebook page. We stream to the world with many of us having regular listeners on several continents.
River Dee Radio are re-launching soon with a brand new, all-singing, all-dancing website (there’s a good bit of singing and dancing on RDR) and we’d like more of you to join us at this exciting time not only to tune in, ask for requests and give feedback but also to present. If you’d like to record a programme for us which reflects your interests, musical or otherwise, get in touch with us at riverdeeradio@gmail.com.
We’d love to hear from you … and so would our loyal listeners. So, let’s talk!
Art Gallery, Craft, Gifts
1 Scott Skinner Square Opening Hours 10am- 4pm Tuesday to Saturday
www.studio1.me.uk
Eileen West and Ziggy ‘On Air’ - the Wild West Show
ELLINGTON MENNIE
At Ellington Mennie we are aware that your kitchen is the heart of your home. We are proud to go above and beyond to provide inspirational design, supply and installation services for bespoke kitchens sourced from our UK suppliers. Our welcoming showroom is situated on the north side of Aboyne’s Station Square and offers a relaxed and inspiring space for our customers to discuss and develop their kitchen ideas with our inhouse design experts. Our personal, friendly and professional service manages the full life cycle of your project from initial concept to a beautifully crafted installation.
Kitchens & Cookware
Opening times - Monday to Friday 9:30-17:00 Saturday by appointment 07788 316144 www.ellingtonmennie.co.uk
Down Memory Lane: a nostalgic look at Banchory High Street in the 50’s
Banchory High Street in the 1950’s had a different presence from today.
Starting at the Square with the village war memorial are the Burgh Buildings. Currently the premises of Brian Smith Funeral Undertakers, this building had been the Reid and Burnett School built in 1838 and closed in 1911.
The Episcopal Church, built in 1850 and consecrated in 1851, is over the wall. Next to the Church are 2 shops - one is occupied by William Hendry the tailor and the second by Mr A.R. Inkster the chemist.
Mr Inkster conceived the idea of growing lavender in the light sandy soil of Deeside and formed a company Ingasetter
Ltd to develop the process commercially. The lavender was grown outside Banchory and a small factory built on the site currently occupied by Morrison’s.
Passing the lane leading to Seafield Cottage is the shop owned by A & D Angus, the shoemaker now occupied by Stinky Beasties.
Banchory Ternan West Church originally known as the Free Church of Banchory is next. Built in 1880 at a cost of £3000, it has a capacity for 700 worshippers.
Crossing Mount Street, formerly Chapel Brae, is the Burnett Arms Hotel once a coaching inn. In the 1950’s it is run by Mr Barclay Cook.
After Watson Lane comes Geordie Gibson’s the grocer shop. The trio of shops are completed with Copland the tailor and clothier and John St John Smith,
dental surgeon. Memories on entry there of the smell, gas masks and spitoons!
Another lane and then the Dee Valley Tearooms now the premises of W.H. Smith. Adjoining the cafe is A. Ross (James B Adam) a grocer shop.
Yet another lane and a then a range of different premises.
There is Mr George Gray, the jeweller, Alex Lamb and Sons, Andrew (Drewie) Adams, the
draper, the Customs and Excise, the British Legion and Ronald Stephen furniture store.
DAgostino’s, Banchory’s famous High Class Confectioner and Ice-cream shop occupies a prime site. Known colloquially as ‘Daggies’, it has a marble counter
Photographs by Banchory Heritage
and tiled floor for coolness. A visit to Banchory is incomplete without a slider’ (ice-cream wafer) or ice-cream cone.
Durward Shoes is next door and generations of us have our feet measured for school shoes, sandals and dancing pumps by Cissie and Lloyd Durward. The smell of leather still evokes memories of entry to this much loved shop. Next is Dewar and Young Radio Engineers, later E. Young who also sells and repairs bicycles.
Another lane and there is George A Hatt the chemist, currently the premises of Charles Michie. Other premises in the 1950’s occupying this area are Valentine the hairdresser and the Hydro Electric shop.
The final shop on this side of the High Street are the premises of Cook the grocers. Again the smell of fresh coffee reminds me of this shop.
The large granite building we next pass is the premises of William Emslie, the solicitor. This had previously been the Union Bank and today is used by a barber’s shop and Raeburn, Christie, Clark and Wallace.
Our perambulation of this side of the High Street ends here.
If you suddenly have no money for food, we can help you through your crisis. Ask for a ‘referral’ from a frontline agency, such as Social Work, CAB, HomeStart, and we can provide you and your family with enough free food for three days.
Based in Banchory, we serve Deeside and the Mearns.
For details, please contact us:
Call us on 07926 969408 or email us at info@aberdeenshiresouth.foodbank.org.uk or visit us at www.aberdeenshiresouth.foodbank.org.uk
Reg No. 235696
Funeral Directors –Monumental Agent - Pre-paid Plans Private Family Business Since 1992
Directors – Brian, Angela, Shauni and Sam Smith
The Square, High Street, Banchory, AB31 5RW - 01330 825400
317 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen, AB14 OUL - 01224 732530
Aboyne Business Centre, Huntly Road, Aboyne, AB34 5HE - 013398 86625
info@briansmithfuneralservices.co.uk
Do you suffer from:
Sleepless nights Feeling overwhelmed
Procrastinating Anxiety Loss of confidence
Struggling to cope with work or personal life?
I provide an evidence based, logical approach using a powerful combination of solution focused therapy, hypnotherapy and an understanding of neuroscience. I will help you understand how the brain works and support you to achieve your goals and become the very best you can be.’
Working together, you can retrain your brain to get
Walking 18.6 miles to support Aberdeenshire Charities
TaxAssist Accountants are not just a part of the Banchory community, we are deeply involved in it. We take an active role in supporting local businesses and the community. As Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce members, we believe in promoting and supporting local businesses.
We also work closely with Aberdeenshire DYW (Developing the Young Workforce), allocating time for the team to visit local academies to meet with pupils and discuss accountancy as a career option.
Our practice owner, Steven Mearns, is a firm believer in helping the local community and small businesses. Steven regularly volunteers his time to fundraise for local charities and speak at workshops for small businesses.
“We are pleased to announce our partnership with Northwood to support local charities during the month of August, with a walk from Banchory to Aberdeen,” says Steven Mearns. Throughout the year we have worked together with Northwood to donate time to local charities, assisting with various tasks such as odd jobs, painting, jetwashing, sorting, mucking-out, weeding and counting puzzle pieces. The charities we have supported so far include Somebody Cares, Befriend a Child, SensationALL, HomeStart, Maggie’s, Halfpenny Animal Sanctuary and more to come in 2024.
Later in August the teams from TaxAssist Accountants and Northwood walked 18.6 miles from Banchory to their offices in Rosemount, Aberdeen. All money raised was split between selected local charities, Forget Me Not, Aberdeen Amateur Athletic Club and Friends of Anchor - all of which were selected by staff, customers and suppliers.
By Hayley Yule
The team has set a target of raising £7500 if you would like to make a donation please visit https://www.givewheel.com/ fundraising/4467/18-mile-fundraising-walk/
BANCHORY SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING
By Marjorie Wright
Do you want to keep fit while having fun and making friends? You’ll also increase your aerobic power, improve your balance and increase your bone density. Your mental health will improve along with your memory. What are you waiting for!
Banchory Scottish Country Dance Club takes place on Wednesday evenings in Banchory Town Hall from 7.45 to 9.30 pm. We have an excellent teacher in Linda Lawson from Stonehaven who does a great job of teaching us different and interesting Scottish Country dances while trying to keep us all in order. Not an easy task sometimes! The emphasis is on fun and friendship, but we do enjoy learning the various dances. The class starts on 11th September and runs over 3 terms with breaks at Christmas and Easter.
The Banchory Class is open to all abilities but if you are a beginner you may find the slower pace of the class at Strachan Hall taught by Ruth Housden from Aboyne on a Tuesday afternoon from 2.30 to 4.30 pm to be more suitable. This class starts on 17th September with terms as per the Banchory Class.
You do not need a partner. Come on your own or bring a friend with you. Both classes are very welcoming and the dancers are all very friendly and more than happy to take newcomers under their wings. Don’t worry if you miss classes or can’t start at the beginning of the term. You can join in at any point.
For further information please contact us at banchorydancing@talktalk.net or visit Banchory Scottish Country Dance Club on Facebook or just turn up at any time to the class.
BANCHORY SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING CLUB
COME AND JOIN US FOR DANCING - AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXERCISE YOUR BODY AND YOUR MIND AND HAVE SOME FUN
BANCHORY TOWN HALL DANCE CLASSES ON WEDNESDAY EVENING AT 7.45 – 9.30 P.M. ALL WELCOME September 11 to December 18 2024
£32 per term. 1st class free to try.
STRACHAN VILLAGE HALL CLASSES FOR THOSE LEARNING TO DANCE ON TUESDAY AFTERNOON AT 2.30 – 4.30 P.M. September 17 to December 10 2024 FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: banchorydancing@talktalk.net
-Dance-Club
BANCHORY OUTDOOR AND ACTIVE
Banchory Outdoor and Active (BOA) is on a mission to transform the Dee Street Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) into a vibrant hub for multiple sports and well-being activities, for the community. This ambitious initiative seeks to regenerate the local sporting landscape and provide a space for people to come together for physical activity, leisure, and social interaction. With fundraising efforts already underway, the support from the local community is evident.
The recent ‘Sports Fun Day’ which ran in conjunction with Banchory Bowling Club’s ‘Try Bowls* was a huge success, raising an amazing £425.66. Participants enjoyed a variety of activities, including Tennis and Golf Putting contests, Frisbee Golf, Beat the Goalie and Obstacle Course, and a chance to try their hand at Bowls. Local businesses like Continental Cream, Judy’s Funcy Faces, and Deeside Inflatables generously supported the event.
In addition to the ‘Sports Fun Day’, local community members have demonstrated support for BOA’s cause through their efforts to help raise the charities profile as well as much needed funds. Mini Mondays hosted a fun play session featuring a variety of games for mothers with babies and toddlers, aimed at promoting awareness of BOA and its initiatives. On 17th August, several ladies enjoyed a Cheese and Wine Tasting event, raising £535 in aid of the initiative. Banchory Tesco supported the charity event by donating two bottles of wine to go towards prizes.
Looking ahead, BOA has a Casino Night on November 16th, featuring a stylish James Bond theme and cocktail attire for a classy and enjoyable evening. Guests can look forward to an unforgettable night filled with thrilling games like Roulette, Stud Poker and Blackjack, along
with a fun photobooth to capture memories as well as raff les and spot prizes. The overall winner with the most ‘fun money’ will win a special prize. The fantastic Sidewinder Jazz band will provide live entertainment during the 3 hours of gaming. After the gaming excitement, guests can dance to their favourite disco hits, making this a fantastic opportunity for the community to unite in support of a great cause.
These events are a testament to the generosity and camaraderie within the Banchory community, highlighting the genuine passion for creating accessible and inclusive spaces for sports and well-being and for which BOA are very grateful. For further information about BOA, as well as our upcoming fundraising events please visit our website at www. banchoryoutdoorandactive.org or email us at info@banchoryoutdoorandactive.
org. If you feel you have the expertise and knowledge to help with the project and would like to join our committee then please do get in touch via the email above. Any donations are very welcome and can be done so through our JustGiving page using the QR Code.
By Felicity Rogers
The Power of Connection: How Social Bonds Enhance Your Physical Health
As a chiropractor my focus has always been on helping people achieve optimal physical health. We often talk about the importance of posture, spinal alignment and regular exercise. That being said, I want to explore a less obvious yet equally vital component of your health: social connections. Yes, the relationships you nurture with your family, friends and community play a significant role in your physical well-being. In our fast-paced world, where work and responsibilities can easily dominate our lives, it’s easy to overlook the importance of social time. However, research has consistently shown that strong social connections can lead to better health outcomes, both mentally and physically.
Reduced Stress and Lower Inflammation
One of the most immediate benefits of maintaining strong social ties is the reduction of stress. When you feel supported by those around you, your body is better equipped to handle stress. This isn’t just a feel-good statement—there’s science to back it up. When we interact with others in positive, supportive ways, our bodies release oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin has a calming effect, lowering cortisol levels (the primary stress hormone). Chronic stress can lead to inflammation, which is linked to a variety of health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain. By staying socially connected, you’re helping your body keep inflammation in check, reducing your risk for these serious conditions.
Improved Immune Function
Studies have found that people with robust social networks are less likely to catch colds and other illnesses. This might be because of the way
social interaction affects your body’s stress response, but it could also be due to the fact that people with strong social ties are more likely to engage in healthy behaviours, like exercising regularly, eating well, and getting outdoors.
Enhanced Pain Management
I often work with patients who are dealing with chronic pain. While physical adjustments and exercises are crucial, the support from friends and family can also play a significant role in pain management. Studies have shown that people with strong social connections experience less pain and recover more quickly from injuries or surgeries. Social support enhances your resilience, making it easier to cope with discomfort and setbacks.
Longevity and Quality of Life
Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to prioritise your social connections is the impact on your longevity. Research has shown that people with strong social ties tend to live longer than those who are isolated. Moreover, they enjoy a better quality of life as they age. Social interaction helps keep the mind sharp, reduces the risk of depression, and encourages healthy lifestyle choices.
How to Build and Maintain Strong Connections
So, how can you strengthen your social connections? Start by making time for the people who matter most in your life. Whether it’s a weekly coffee date with a friend, joining a club, or simply picking up the phone to check in with a loved one, these small actions can make a big difference.
Making new connections couldn’t be easier in our wonderful town community. Why not pop on the Banchory Rocks facebook page and ask what groups are available for you to join today!
Ingredients
» 65g self-raising flour
» 40g castor sugar
» 50g marg or butter
» Few drops vanilla essence
» Oats or desiccated coconut
» Glace cherries
Melting Moments - a classic recipe from the Be-Ro Recipe Book
The Be-Ro recipe book was first published in 1923, and it has since reached its 41st edition. Remarkably, it’s one of the best-selling cookery books ever, with over thirty-eight million copies sold!
Method
Cream the marg/butter, sugar and essence
Stir in flour and mix thoroughly
Divide mixture into 20 pieces, roll each into a ball and toss in oats or desiccated coconut.
Place on a greased baking sheet, flatten slightly –allow space for expansion - and place a small piece of cherry on each biscuit.
Bake in a moderate oven 165 °C fan for about 15 minutes.
Brain Strain – it’s good for you!
1. The word CHAMELEON can change into a five letter word and a four letter word e.g. duplicate and utterance = CLONE & AHEM Clues to the words are given in pairs below/.
5 Letter Word 4 Letter Word
Citrus fruit Every Another fruit Pain Animal Perfect Body of Water Tiller To Drain Sign
Sterilise No place like it Therefore Soil
2. Reach the target number using any or all of the six numbers just once by means of any combination of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
1 1 2 4 4 25 Target:644
3. To each word below, add one letter and then rearrange them to form the name of a tool e.g. CHIN + W = WINCH. The added letters, in order, will spell the name of a traditional tradesman.
1. WATERS 5. BARROW
You’re escaping a maze, and there are three doors in front of you. The door on the left leads to a pit of lava. The door in the centre leads to a room filled with deadly gas. The door on the right leads to a lion that hasn’t eaten in three months. Which door do you choose?
What is unusual about the following words?
REVIVE BANANA GRAMMAR VOODOO ASSESS POTATO DRESSER UNEVEN
2. Ei el Tower 3. Are you in trouble? 4. Long time, no see 5. But on second thought 6. Summer 5. The door on the right. A lion that hasn’t eaten in three months would be dead. 6. Take the rstfi letter of each word and place it at the end. It will spell the same word backward.
