July 2012
BUCKIE, KEITH & DISTRICT THE
NORTH’S
FAV O U R I T E
FREE
WEE
MAG’!
# / - - 5 . ) 4 9 s 3 4 9 , % s % !4 ) . ' / 5 4 s &! 3 ( ) / . Clubs p4 Pastoral Letter p6 Sizzler Cards p7 Parliament Blog p10 What’s On p11 -15 Grilled Asparagus p16 Malta p18 Wild about Nature p20
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Clubs,Societies & Regular Meetings AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS Free, confidential help & support to the relatives & friends of problem drinkers. Local weekly groups in Buckie & Keith. Visit www.hexnet.co.uk/alanon/, email alanonuk@aol.com or call 020 7403 0888 for more information. BANFF, MORAY & NAIRN CANINE CLUB Classes are held in Obedience and Ringcraft every Monday evening during school terms from 18:30am in Spynie Hall, Elgin. Call Joanne on 07715 557395
& experienced players welcome. www.buckiepipeband.co.uk BUCKIE AMATEUR SWIMMING CLUB Classes spanning all levels and coaching available. Ages 5-16. Contact David Eckersley 832078 BUCKIE ARCHERS If you are over 21 and interested in forming an Archery Club based in Buckie please email buckiearchers@yahoo.co.uk We have 2 targets, 2 recurve and 1 field bow for trial.
BANFFSHIRE FIELD CLUB Meets monthly at St Rufus Church Hall, Turner Street, Keith to explore the district, its botany, geology, natural history, archaeology, etc. Contact Mrs K M Hawkes 840718 or visit www.banffshirefieldclub.org.uk
BUCKIE BE ACTIVE LIFE LONG (B.A.L.L.) Gentle exercise for body and mind. Over 60’s welcome. Meet in the Guide Hall, Newlands Lane. Tuesdays 10am-12.15pm. Tel: 839200 / 832952.
BUCKIE AND DISTRICT PIPE BAND We meet in the Royal British Legion hall, Buckie, on Thursday evenings 6.30pm-9pm. Learners
BUILDING BLOCKS NURSERY Spaces available for children aged 2-5 years. Also provide funded pre-school places. Open all year, including school holidays, 8am - 6pm. 37 St Peters Terrace, Buckie.Tel:07771360880
Sample One-Off Advertising Rates (Colour Advert) Box £47 Big Box £89 ¼ Page £161 ½ Page £305 Business Profile £333 Full Page £576 Discounts available for series bookings and Black & White SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District is published by Winterburn Media Ltd, Comraich, Woodside Farm, Kinloss IV36 3UA, 01309 690063. All material contained within the SpotLight magazines is subject to formal copyright restrictions and therefore the reproduction of any listings, editorial, advertiser artwork or any other content, without the publishers prior consent, will be considered a breach of copyright. page 4 - July 2012
BUCKIE CHORAL UNION Mixed choir. Rehearsals are on Thursdays 7:30-9:30pm in the Buckie North Church Hall, Buckie. For morel information (including map) visit www.buckiechoral.org.uk CLOCHAN ART GROUP Monday 2pm-4pm, Clochan Hall A small group enjoying painting and drawing, working in all mediums and happy to offer help and advice over a cup of coffee. All Welcome! DIABETES UK MORAY VOLUNTARY GROUP AGM. and Understanding Diabetes presentation. 7pm. in Elgin Youth Cafe, Francis Place, Elgin, IV30 1LQ. All welcome, young and old, come along and learn more about diabetes and the activities of our local group.
FAITH AND LIGHT GROUP BUCKIE To provide an evening of respite care to the parents or carers of club members. 1st and 3rd Tuesday evening at 7pm. Contact Anne Gerrard 831124 FOCHABERS HILL WALKING & RAMBLING CLUB Meets the last Sunday each month for hill walking outings. £15 annual sub and £10-£20 bus fare. Contact Wilma Forsyth for more details 01343 821101 ISLA VOLLEYBALL CLUB Wednesdays, September - April. 7.30pm - 9pm Intermediate & Seniors; 9pm -10pm Seniors. Keith Community Centre. Contact Mhorag Mitchell 888310 JOG SCOTLAND BUCKIE Tuesdays 6.45pm, Swimming Pool car park. Juniors, Monday 4.30pm, BHS Games Hall. Suitable for beginners. email jsbuckie@walkjogrunmoray.org.uk or call 842847 KEITH CRICKET CLUB Desperate for new players. All ages & abilities welcome. Practice on Thursdays - 5pm Juniors & 6pm Seniors at Fife Park, Keith. Contact N Green on 01542 887105 for more details. KEITH SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS Every Thurs 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Royal British Legion Hall, Keith KEITH SPORTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE Contact 01542 882222 MORAY ADVANCE MOTORISTS & MOTORCYCLISTS Reg. Scottish Charity SC 033561 visit www.morayiam.org.uk or call 01309 673954 MORAY DISABILITY FORUM We welcome everyone interested, or working in the area of disability to become a member of the group. Call Mike McKenzie, c/o Moray Resource Centre, Elgin. Tel: 07967 440164
tel: 01309 690063
MORTLACH ART GROUP Meets in the Memorial Hall, Albert Place, Dufftown every Thursday 1pm-5pm. £2 per meeting. Tuition available. Some materials are available. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS MORAY By people with multiple sclerosis for people with multiple sclerosis A website with info & support for people with MS, their friends, family & carers. www.MSMoray.net NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETIES (MORAY BANFF AND BADENOCH BRANCH) 2nd Wednesday of the month 11am, Sherwood Suite, Eight Acres Hotel, Elgin. New members welcome. Contact Sarah Fennings-Mills on 01343 831002 or www.nadfas.org.uk SPEY BAY COMMUNITY HALL Mon Peak Physique 7-7.45pm & 88-45pm (07973149855). Tues Indoor Bowls 7-8.30pm (821947) Wed morning BALL (821713). Thurs Mums & Toddlers 1-2.30pm (821162) Badminton 7-9pm. Fri Peak Physique 10-11am. Indoor Bowls 7-7.30pm. Call Willie Pirie on 01343 823995 for general enquiries. WALK BUCKIE Wednesdays 7pm. 30-45 min walks at various paces from Buckie Swimming Pool car park. www.walkjogrunmoray.org.uk
If you would like details of your club or society included in this section please let us know. All club listings are free. Not all clubs will be listed every issue.
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The Editor
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As we slip into July 2012 our thoughts may well drift towards lazy summer days and holidays relaxing in the sun. Spare a thought for the hundreds and thousands of people taking part in this summer’s Olympic Games and events like Wimbledon where traditionally, it seems, our creator reserves for us His most challenging weather. Whilst the athletes and sportsmen struggle with the conditions we can ‘relax’ at our beach resort. Please enjoy your break and consider others less fortunate!
Leisure
Chef’s Confidential
Sizzler Cards...............................7
Grilled asparagus......................16
PUBLISHER ...............David Nelmes SALES ......................Eilidh Conners ACCOUNTS ...................Lynn Wood LAYOUT ...............Megan Woodman DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson LISTINGS................Tamsyn Dickson Clubs & Societies ............................4 Pastoral Letter.................................6 Church aDetails.................................6 Council News ..................................8 UsefulaNumbers ..............................9 Local Holidays.................................9 School Term Dates..........................9 Tide Times.....................................10 Parliament Blog.............................10 What’s On...............................11 - 15 Advertisers Index ..........................23
Parliament Blog
Travel
A cheery look at politics ............10
Malta .........................................18
Events
Outdoor
Cullen Summer Festival............15
Wild About Nature.....................20
Come to Cullen for an action-packed weekend of fun, activities and a entertainment for the whole family.
August Issue Deadlines Editorial - Friday 29/06/12 Advertising - Wednesday 04/07/12
For full details on what's happening when, go to www.discovercullen.com, or e-mail community@discovercullen.com for more info
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Pastoral letter and Church Meetings This month, we are having a family wedding, and for many months this event has generated much excitement as preparations have been made, to ensure all the details are perfect, and nothing is overlooked or forgotten for the Big Day.
than what the guests had been given before.
At the start of his ministry, Jesus attended a wedding together with members of his family and the disciples. All was going well, until the wine ran out. What a disaster! The hosts and those responsible for the catering are very upset. What can they do? Mary, the mother of Jesus knows, and asks him to help. Jesus' reply is dismissive “Woman what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come”.( John 2:4 ) Mary, however, tells the servants to do as Jesus says, and six jars of water each holding twenty or thirty gallons are turned into wine. And this wine was the best wine, far better
What happened at the wedding was a sign, pointing beyond itself. It was the beginning of the signs which Jesus did, and it was more than that, it was the key to all the other signs which are to follow. This key sign tells us that what Jesus brings about is transformation. Transformation for all who follow him, then and now. Jesus came to bring a new order for our human nature. In the old order things deteriorate – as we get older our teeth fall out, our eyes will not focus, our joints grow stiff, our memory becomes like a piece of elastic that has lost its stretch and its grip.... But in the new order the best is always
“Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.” (John 2: 11 )
Keith, C of S - North, Newmill, Boharm and Rothiemay North Church : Sunday 11am; Boharm Church : 1st Sunday of the month at Mulben village hall at 9.30am; Rothiemay Church : Sunday 9.30am, except the first Sunday in each month. Contact Rev Hutton Steel on 882559 / 886390 or email knnbrchurch@btconnect.com Keith, C of S - St Rufus, Botriphnie and Grange St Rufus Church : Sunday 10.15am; Botriphnie Church : Sunday 11.45am (alternate Sundays); Grange Church : Sunday 11.45am (alternate Sundays). Contact Rev Ranald S.R. Gauld on 882799 or email: kay_gauld@btinternet.com Keith, St. Thomas’ Church RC Sunday Masses : VigilMass 9.30am & 6.30pm. Confessions Saturday 10am on request. Tel: 882352 Portessie Assembly Hall, Ogilvie Street Gospel Meetings on Sunday at 6:15pm. Prayer & Bible Study on Wednesday at 7:30pm. Tel: 01343 820532 Portessie Methodist Church, Portessie, Buckie Sunday worship at 11am and 6pm (alternately here & at Buckie). Portgordon Methodist Church Sunday worship at 11am. Bible study meeting on alternate Mondays with the Church of Scotland congregation at 2pm. Craft group meets on Wednesdays at 2pm page 6 - July 2012
now, -oh the physical deterioration will continue- but if life is lived to the full in the present moment through knowing Jesus Christ as Lord, then through each present moment can come that new quality of life which is called eternity. We are told the wedding took place on the third day, pointing us to another third day, the day of resurrection, and to the glory which is revealed through that third day, the glory of the Father who gave His Son Jesus Christ that we might live now, and for all eternity. “ For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so the everyone who believes in Him may not perish, but have everlasting life.(John 3:16) Rev Frances Fors haw Gord on Chapel
Portknockie Church of Christ Sunday 11am Breaking of Bread & 6pm Gospel Service. Friday 7pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study. Ladies Fellowship (September - March) every 2nd Monday 7pm. Prayer Breakfast 8am Wednesdays. Leader Mr Stewart Gray 836007 Portknockie Church of Scotland Sunday morning worship at 11.15am, all welcome. Contact Morag Ritchie 01542 840951 or Heather Reid 01542 840921 Rathven Church of Scotland Sunday morning worship at 9.45am led by a Minister or an authorised Local Preacher. Contact Moira 833956 or Ann 831607 Riverside Christian Church, Buckie Sundays at 10.30am. Call 833923 or visit www.riversidebuckie.org St Peters Church RC, St Andrews Square, Buckie Saturday Vigil 6.30 pm, Sunday Mass 10:00am. Resident Priest - Rev Tad Turski Tel: 01542 832196. This is listed alphabetically from K to S and will be regularly be rotated. If you are a member of a church not listed here, please email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk and we may print this in future issues.
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
leisure
Sizzler Cards
Fantastic Summer holiday offer at your local swimming pool – available from the start to the end of the holidays (2nd July to 20th August 2012 inclusive).
BUCKIE s &/22%3 s +%)4( ,/33)%-/54( s 30%93)$% Being able to swim is great fun, good for your general health and it is one of the most important life skills that a child can learn – what better way to spend some quality time during the long summer holiday break than using your local pool – at an incredible cost from as little as fifteen pence per day if you use our “Summer Sizzler” cards (daily access for up to 2 hours at a time for a one off payment of £7.50).
Early bird promotion: we have 10 free cards to give away
–
your
name
and
address
to
sportandleisure@moray.gov.uk and the first 10 received will get a child card absolutely free (restricted to one card per household address).
We recognise the importance of young children attending the pool by having the same incredible deal
Swimming is Coooool (but the water is warm!)
available to adults – all we ask is that you accompany a child or children and go into the pool with them.
Timetables available to download at www.moray.gov.uk
The information below details the “Sizzler” offer – don’t delay and pop along to your local pool anytime to buy a card.
Sports & Leisure Services Throughout the School Summer holidays, Moray Council is offering children the opportunity to use their local pool for the nominal cost of an admission voucher. For a one-off payment of £7.50 children can use the pool during any public session, fun session or party session, mask and snorkel session, aqua-run, dolphin slide etc any day or evening for the seven weeks of the school holidays for a maximum of two hours at a time. Monday 2nd July to Monday 20th August 2012 inclusive. Adult cards available £7.50 for seven weeks of school holidays* Please ask at reception.
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Cards are available from your local Swimming Pool at Buckie-Forres-Keith-Lossiemouth-Speyside *Can only be used when accompanied by a child
7
Picture by Jan e
Kelso , Copyr
ight
Community Council News ExTRaCTS fROM THE MinuTES Of THE MEETing Of 2nd Of aPRiL 2012 Of KEiTH COMMuniTy COunCiL
POLICE MATTERS There were 33 recorded crimes in Keith which included :1 dishonesty, 5 disorder crimes, 2 serious assaults, 12 road traffic offences The remainder were undetected crimes, thefts and low value crimes in the town.
cars causing problems and police have been able to follow these reports and cars have been put off the road. One young man was stopped for a reason, his friend objected and his car was also put off the road which resulted in two complaints being dealt with.
anyone with information can contact 0845 600 5 700 or Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111 or call in at Keith police station. CL asked about fireworks which went off at 11.15 pm on Saturday night. JM suggested that this was for a celebration and would be a one off.
at this point of the meeting Mr. Ross a resident from drum Road was invited to enter the meeting. Mr. Ross showed photos of the damage that his property had received whilst the construction of new primary school was being done. There were pictures also of the cars of parents who are parking illegally on double lines as well.
The Royal Hotel held a music event aimed at teenagers and above. There were concerns from the police regarding the overspill onto the a96 off young people. an accident was waiting to happen. Councillors thought there should be stewards on the door which there weren’t. The licensing board would not be wanting to approve off such events where under 18`s would be attending an event where alcohol is being sold. Sergeant Black will be liasing with the owner of the Royal for any future events. The Longmore Hall seemed to be a better venue to hold such events. a multi agency meeting was held in Keith at the end of March to discuss the way forward on the recent issues of anti social behaviour, etc, in Keith. Councilors asked why the public wasn’t invited. There will be another meeting arranged for the end of april, and a drop in morning to be held in the Longmore Hall for members of the public to attend. The police are working with youth workers who will be on the streets for the next 6 – 8 weeks. There are to be more litter bins provided at the astro Turf as there apparently not enough. Still complaints of bikes churning up pathways at falls of Tarnash and at Seafield Park where the Show is. SC said that maybe these motorcyclists weren’t aware that they were doing any harm and a word with them might solve the problem. a number of members of the public have come forward with registration numbers of
it was discussed which way might be the best way forward for the Lane closure – School Road – drum Road. Councilors now agreed that the Lane should now be closed due to the heavy amount of pupils now using the lane since there is now no access through the former green school onto Church Road. There are also safety issues of the amount of traffic which will be using Banff Road if the lane is closed. at peak times Banff Road is at 95% capacity. Traffic lights on Banff Road could be introducesd or a pelican crossing. The majority of car users are parents dropping of children to school. Sergeant Black would like to hold a meeting with relevant people including Mr Ross and JM. Suggestions that the lane could be closed at peak times using collapsible bollards was raised. Mr. Ross asked if there could be better road markings on the a96 turning up to drum Road. Hatching was suggested. JM read out the reply to the consultation she has made to Moray Council for the Lane closure. Councilors have urged BEaR and Transport Scotland to respond as well as there is also the matter of new houses being built on Banff Road which will add to the traffic coming to the Banff Road junction.. Consultation closes on 16th april. MATTERS ARISING CORRESPONDENCE There is a proposed increase in Taxi fares
in Moray – for 1600yards its £3 – an additional 5 pence per mile. Councilors agreed with this rise considering the fuel price rise, etc. Haud ER gaun gala to be held at Kynoch Park. Bunting and flags have been bought. Events are being planned including a pram and pint race, musical entertainment and an Olympics. gC will be doing the commentary. fKag have emailed/ written a letter requesting that they use the Keith Christmas Lights boxes from June to September for their fund raising. Councillors discussed the matter and suggested if they wanted to do this fund raising they could buy their own tins and do it if the wished. a fKag member has been taking on the resposibilies which are Community Council Matters a letter is to issued to them to liase with KCC to resolve any matters that need dealing with and to save duplication from agencies involved. COMMUNITY COUNCILLORS UPDATES Tag – Members thought it would be good to see what local people thought a Scots Toun should consist of. it was suggested that scots words such as Loons and Quines could be used on toilet doors and signs pointing to the shoppies. The Scots language centres plan was to set forth the qualities/ characteristics they considered a Scots Toun should have, but their dr Horsburgh suggested that the folk of Keith would be better placed to do so. MC requested and the Banffshire Herald to write an article requesting the input of the Keith folk. Michael Hance (the centres director) is to contact Esther to discuss further. new town gateway signage – With the funding package for refurbishing properties on Mid Street and Reidhaven Square, a small proportion of the cash was available for other projects, and KTag members discussed the possibility of replacing the current metal town gateway signs with stone built structures in the shape of the auld Brig, the town name and strapline to be displayed within the arch, creating more attractive entrances to the town.
OThER COMMUNITY COUNCIL CONTACTS Keith Community Council: Meets first Monday of each month (excluding January/august) 7pm at Keith Community Centre. Contact: diane Halley (Secretary) tel: 886640
page 8 - July 2012
Buckie Community Council Meets third Tuesday each month (excluding July) 7pm Town House West. Contact: gordon Cowie (Secretary) tel: 831956
tel: 01309 690063
Strathisla Community Council Meets first Wednesday of every month (excluding January and august) Keith Community Centre Contact: (Secretary) 01542 870727
SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
Local Holidays, School Term Dates &Useful Numbers Local & Bank Holidays and Dates to Remember Buckie Holiday § Mon. 30th July 2012 Summer Bank Holiday Mon. 6th Aug. 2012 Keith Holiday Mon. 13th Aug. 2012 Fochabers Holiday ‡ Mon. 3rd Sept. 2012 Buckie Holiday § Mon. 10th Sept. 2012 Keith Holiday Mon. 15th Oct. 2012 Buckie Holiday § Mon. 15th Oct. 2012 Fochabers Holiday ‡ Mon. 15th Oct. 2012 British Summertime Ends Sun. 28th Oct. 2012
St. Andrews Day Christmas Day Boxing Day Early May Bank Holiday
Fri. 30th Nov. 2012 Tues. 25th Dec. 2012 Wed. 26th Dec. 2012 Mon. 6th May 2013
* substitute, as this holiday falls on a weekend or other bank holiday § includes Cullen, Findochty & Portknockie ‡ includes Garmouth, Kingston, Mosstodloch, Spey Bay & Urquhart
School Term Dates for 2012/2013 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts Tuesday 21st August 2012 Autumn Term Ends Friday 12th October 2012 Winter Term Starts Monday 29th October 2012 In-service Closure Monday 19th November 2012 In-service Closure Tuesday 20th November 2012 Winter Term Ends Fri. 21st December 2012
Spring Term Starts Monday 7th January 2013 Mid-term Holiday Friday 15th February 2013 Mid-term Holiday Monday 18th February 2013 Spring Term Ends Thursday 28th March 2013 Good Friday Holiday Friday 29th March 2013 Summer Term Starts Monday 15th April 2013 Milne’s High & Feeders Friday 3rd May 2013
Useful Numbers If you have any suggestions for additional useful numbers, please email these to tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk SCHOOLS Botriphnie Primary School ............................01542 810207 Cluny Primary School....................................01542 831417 Crossroads Primary School ..........................01542 870221 Cullen Primary School ..................................01542 840279 Findochty Primary School ............................01542 832287 Keith Primary School ....................................01542 882802 Millbank Primary School ................................01542 831113 Milne’s Primary School ..................................01343 820977 Mosstodloch Primary School ........................01343 820476 Newmill Primary School ................................01542 882788 Portessie Primary School ..............................01542 832288 Portgordon Primary School ..........................01542 831198 Portknockie Primary School ..........................01542 840244 Rothiemay Primary School .......................... 01466 711220 St Peters RC Primary School ........................01542 831339 St Thomas RC Primary School ......................01542 882256 Buckie High School ......................................01542 832605 Keith Grammar School ..................................01542 882461 Milne’s High School ......................................01343 820611 DOCTORS Ardach Health Centre ....................................01542 831555 Seafield Medical Centre ................................01542 835577 Seafield & Cullen Medical Group...................01542 835577 Keith Medical Centre......................................01542 882244 Dr Grays Hospital, Elgin................................0845 456 6000 SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
DENTISTS The Keith Dental Practice ............................(01542) 886251 Buckie Dental Practice ................................(01542) 831163 PHARMACIES Bairds Pharmacy, Keith..................................01542 882512 Clarks Pharmacy, Fife-Keith ..........................01542 882533 Cullen Pharmacy............................................01542 840220 Listermac Pharmacy, Union St ......................01542 840268 Listermac Pharmacy, W. Church St ..............01542 833321 W.S. Taylor, Buckie ........................................01542 831116 Normac Pharmacy, Buckie ............................01542 831147 Buckie Leisure Centre....................................01542 832841 Police Station ................................................0845 600 5700 Keith Community Centre................................01542 882222 Keith Swimming Pool ....................................01542 882222 Keith Resource Centre ..................................01542 886174 Keith Library ..................................................01542 882223 Keith Sports & Com. Ctr ................................01542 882222 Moray Council Access Point, Keith................01542 885500 Registrar ........................................................01542 885525 Keith Tourist Info. Ctr......................................01542 888423 Keith Community Bus ....................................01542 882222 Babs Dial A Bus ............................................01542 835800 National Rail Enquiries ..................................08457 484950
www.spotlighton.co.uk
July 2012 - page 9
Parliament Blog & Tides Picture by alis
“ Parliament Blog ”
on gelling , Co
pyright
Picture by , Copyright
A huge thank you to all the Kiltwalkers that set out from Buckie and Fochabers heading to Aberlour and raising a huge amount of money for some fantastic children's charities. I had the pleasure of sending the walkers off from Buckie and Richard Lochhead set them off on their way from Fochabers.
At the time of writing I am dusting off the bike and preparing to take part in the Whisky Trail Sportive 2012, which is a cycling challenge to raise funds for North East Sensory Services. With three routes - 80 miles, 40 miles and a 10 mile family friendly route, it is an opportunity for all abilities of cyclists to get out and about.
It was a great day out with hundreds taking part and raising funds and having some fun along the way, meeting friends old and new. It looks to be a fantastic fundraising fixture in Moray's calendar and has the potential to go from being huge to absolutely massive! Well done to everyone involved in both organising and participating. Great job!
By the time Spotlight goes to press I will either be thinking I'm fitter than I thought or lying in a painful heap having been beaten to the finish by the children. Clearly that can't be allowed to happen....back to training it is then....
Angus Robertson MP
Richard Lochhead MSP
We are aware that the coverage of SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District does not match exactly the constituency areas of MPs and MSP’s and as such the above Blogs represent the greater proportion of the population of this area.
LOW TIDE TIMES FOR BUCKIE IN JULY Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
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tel: 01309 690063
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SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
BUCKIE, KEITH & DISTRICT THE
NORTH’S
FAV O U R I T E
FREE
WEE
MAG’!
# / - - 5 . ) 4 9 s 3 4 9 , % s % !4 ) . ' / 5 4 s &! 3 ( ) / .
PLeaSe Send uS detaiLS of YouR eventS Log on to www.spotlighton.co.uk email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk or call 01309 690063 What’s~on listings deadline for august issue is friday 29/06/12
Rolling Event 26 june - onwards interactive exhibition of modern automata & kinetic art 10am - 5pm, tuesday - saturday at the house of automata, kinloss (next to petrol station). free entry. call 01309 691212 for more information or visit www.thehouseofautomata.com
30 saturday - 7 july burghead gala with a jam packed itinerary there is something for everyone during the week. visit www.wix.com/burgheadgala for full details.
JULY 1 sunday andy zaltzman @ ironworks 7pm. 16+. for tickets or info 0871 7894173 or www.ironworksvenue.com medieval jousting team ‘the knights of the damned’ @ brodie castle shows at 12:30pm & 2:30pm. battlefield highland re-enactment group. adults £8, family £23, concessions £5. call 0844 493 2156 or visit www.nts.org.uk/events
27 june - end july ‘highland hoots’ - an art exhibition by lois bee at elgin museum. £1 entrance fee, or included in the museum entrance charge of £4. for more info call 01343543675 or visit elginmuseum.org.uk
JUNE 27 wednesday strawberry hill fiddlers from new york state, usa in bellie kirk, fochabers. this venue is particularly appropriate since the famous fiddler wm marshall (1748 - 1833) from fochabers is buried in the old bellie kirkyard. for details of times & tickets see notices.
29 friday ten tonne dozer @ flanagans bar 8pm, elgin. a night of hard rocking! supported by ‘semperfi’ and ‘slave system’. email thesyndicate2008@btinternet.com or visit www.facebook.com/thesyndicate2008 ‘the marvel of peru’ @ brodie castle 7:30pm. james ross & friends perform baroque music. tickets £10. visit www.nts.org.uk/events or call 0844 493 2156
30 saturday showstopperz at nairn community & arts centre. for tickets and more info call 01667 453476 or email info@nairncc.co.uk SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
NAIRN Nairn Community & Arts Centre Y our local venue for films, shows, Your concerts and parties. Wide range of activities for all ages.
JUL JULY Y EVENT EVENTS S Summer Programme of Activities for children, each W ednesday Wednesday throughout the school holidays. Limited places, please phone to check availability
Sat 14th ...................Music ...................Music Nairn – Scottish Ensemble Wed Wed 25th ........................ Crossroads-Strawberry Tea Tea Sat 28th .................................................... W Wrestlezone restlezone 7th – 21st......................... 21st ......................... Art Exhibition by Anne Pirie, in aid of Headway Highland For further details TTelephone elephone 01667 453476, e-mail, info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at www www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk .nairncommunitycentre.co.uk
www.spotlighton.co.uk
July 2012 - page 11
14 saturday
JULY 2012 continued
4 wednesday wildlife warriors 2pm - 4pm, every wednesday until 15th august at the scottish dolphin centre, spey bay, fochabers. wildlife kids’ club for children aged 6-10, £2 per child. children to be accompanied by an adult. booking is essential. call 01343 820 339 or email dolphincentre@wdcs.org.
5 thursday savour the flavour - the african kitchen tour 7pm 9pm, elgin town hall. cookery demo. free to cooperative members & their guests. book online www.co-operativememberevents.coop, email patricia.ditommaso@co-operative.coop or call 0141 304 5582
6 friday wild woods walk 7pm - 9pm, scottish dolphin centre, spey bay, fochabers. explore the woods to uncover some of their secrets & meet the animals that live in them. children must be accompanied by an adult. booking is essential. call 01343 820 339 or email dolphincentre@wdcs.org.
music nairn presents scottish ensemble and alasdair beatson 7:30pm at nairn community and arts centre. piano quintets by schumann, alasdair spratt and schubert (trout). tickets £18, members £14, students £2. call 01667 453476
19 thursday ironworks summer showcase #2 7pm. 14+. feat. the frues, city in surveillance & defcon one. tickets or info 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
20 friday - 22 sunday cullen summer festival come along for an actionpacked weekend of fun, activities & entertainment for the whole family. for full details on what's happening when, go to www.discovercullen.com, or e-mail community@discovercullen.com for more info.
BURGIE INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS
7 saturday forres highland games 12:30pm, grant park, forres. massed pipe bands, track events, 10K road race, heavy events, solo piping, highland dancing, field events and more. for information call 01309 673289
7 saturday - 21 saturday art exhibition by anne pirie, in aid of headway highland at nairn community and arts centre tickets or info call 01667 453476 or email info@nairncc.co.uk
8 sunday kingston community litter pick 10am - 11am. every month local people help to keep the spey bay reserve beautiful by sweeping the west side of the reserve for litter. if you would like to help out, please call the ranger for more info on 01343 820339.
12 thursday ironworks summer showcase #1 7pm. 14+. feat. the parma violets, purple divide, winne & adrian telfer. tickets or information call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
JULY 21st - 22nd COME FOR A GREAT FAMILY WEEKEND WATCH DRESSAGE, CROSS COUNTRY, SHOW JUMPING & ALL OUR ARENA EVENTS ALONG WITH WATER WALKING, CLIMBING WALL, BOUNCY CASTLES, KIDDIE QUADS, TERRIER RACING, SHOPPING & LOTS, LOTS MORE
www.burgie.org
13 friday pond dipping 10am - 12pm, meet at the lein car park in kingston. children to be accompanied by an adult. nets provided, wear wellies. booking essential. call 01343 820 339 or email dolphincentre@wdcs.org
13 friday - 21 saturday hopeman gala a fun-filled week for both adults and children. visit www.hopemangala.co.uk for full details. page 12 - July 2012
21 saturday inverness highland games 1pm - 6pm, northern meeting park. early bird tickets on sale in the city centre from 10am on games day as everybody gathers to watch the armed forces day parade which will start at 12:15pm.
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
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171st tomintoul highland games 12:30pm, traigh farm, arisaig. traditional highland games. highland dancing, heavy events, solo piping competitions, track & field events, games dance at 10pm. for info call allan macdonald on 01687 450 604 or email info@arisaighighlandgames.co.uk
wrestlezone at nairn community and arts centre. for tickets and more info call 01667 453476 or email info@nairncc.co.uk nairn show at kinnudie farm, auldearn. something for everyone. adults £10, conc/secondary pupils, £5 primary or pre-school children £1. courtesy bus from nairn bus station. free parking. for full programme visit nairnshow.org.uk/2012
22 sunday
29 sunday
JULY 2012 continued
first ever cullen skink world championship 2012 for rules & an entry form visit www.discovercullen.com or e-mail community@discovercullen.com. also available from cullen paper shop, cullen tourist office and cullen bay hotel.
23 monday - 28 saturday exhibition of art by members of mortlach art group 10:30am - 4:30pm in mortlach memorial hall. tea and coffee available. admission free.
25 wednesday crossroads - strawberry tea at nairn community and arts centre. for tickets and more info call 01667 453476 or email info@nairncc.co.uk
26 thursday ironworks summer showcase #3 7pm. 14+. feat. whisky river band, last summer effect & emma mitchell. tickets or info 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
27 friday - 29 sunday speyfest 2012 - the playing fields on east street in the moray town of fochabers will be home to the 17th speyfest weekend. it is one of the longest running music festivals in scotland, of its kind. visit www.speyfest.com for tickets & more information.
28 saturday wilderness survival day with moray council & swt rangers 1pm - 3:30pm, meet at speyside way car park, fochabers wood, just after the spey bay roundabout. for children aged 8 & up. all children to be accompanied by an adult. £2 per child. booking is essential. email dolphincentre@wdcs.org or call 01343 820 339. 119th dufftown highland games 11am - 5pm, mortlach school sports field, dufftown. ben rinnes 5 tops hill race, overseas visitors race, massed pipe bands, track & field, heavy events, tug o war, solo piping, highland dancing. for details contact a. brown on 01340 820342. page 14 - July 2012
forres accordion and fiddle club players 1:30pm 4pm at brodie castle. afternoon tea served. call 0844 493 2156 or visit www.nts.org.uk/events lofty arts @ the loft 11am - 1pm, east grange farm, kinloss. creative fun sessions £4 per child - all children welcome (accompanied by an adult). booking recommended call 01343 850111
30 monday return of the lumberjacks @ ironworks 7pm. 16+. a triple bill of comedy. for tickets or info 0871 7894173 or www.ironworksvenue.com
AUGUST 2012 in brief 2 thursday ironworks summer showcase #4 7pm. 14+. feat. swamp radio, scum, toecutter & spoke too soon. for tickets or information call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com. 3 friday creatures of the night walk 8:30pm - 10:30pm, once the sun goes down a new world awakens. join us on a walk to discover the animals on the nightshift. children must be accompanied by an adult. booking essential. email dolphincentre@wdcs.org or call 01343 820 339 3 friday - 4 saturday belladrum tartan heart festival in a beautiful setting just outside beauly. family-friendly & eco-conscious event attracts true talent. for tickets and details visit www.tartanheartfestival.co.uk 4 saturday lhanbryde community challenge quiz night 7pm for 7:30pm, lhanbryde community centre. £2 per person with teams of four. BYOB and nibbles. 6 monday al murray - pub landlord @ ironworks 7:30pm. 16+. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com 9 thursday ironworks summer showcase #5 7pm. 14+. feat. barry mackay, the galipaygos & ailsa lyall matthews. for tickets or information call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com 10 friday pond dipping 10am - 12pm, meet at the lein car park in kingston. children to be accompanied by an adult. nets provided, wear wellies. booking essential. call 01343 820 339 or email dolphincentre@wdcs.org 11 saturday abernethy highland games and clan grant gathering 10:30am - 5pm, games field, nethy bridge. events & competitions remain much the same from year to year, but each is different as new competitors come on to the scene and new records are set. visit www.nethybridge.com/highlandgames for info.
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Buckie, Keith & District
historic wheels club - vintage car rally cars on view from 12:30pm - 4pm. enquiries & tickets call 01667 404401 or visit www.cawdorcastle.com portgordon art group exhibition 10am - 6pm at arradoul hall. 12 sunday historic wheels club annual rally brodie castle, near forres. vehicle display open to public 2pm - 4pm. admission - £5 adult / £3.50 seniors & u12s /£13 family. free parking. all profits to charity. to enter a vehicle contact hwcwheeltrim@aol.com by 23rd july. portgordon art group exhibition 10am - 4pm at arradoul hall. kingston community litter pick 10am - 11am. every month local people help to keep the spey bay reserve beautiful by sweeping the west side of the reserve for litter. if you would like to help out, please call the ranger for more info on 01343 820339. 16 thursday ironworks summer showcase #6 7pm. 14+. feat. the little mill of happiness, kobi & naked red. for tickets or info 0871 7894173 or www.ironworksvenue.com 18 saturday ac gliders, segway tours & experience at aberchirder flower show, aberchirder. call 07799 754491 or to book email info@acgliders.co.uk ceilidh dance - with the brandon mcphee trio 8pm in lhanbryde community centre. licensed bar. tickets £8. email enquiries@lhanbrydecc.org or call 01343 843025 feis rois trad trail @ ironworks 7:30pm, unreserved cabaret seating. for tickets or info call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
nairn highland games at the links, nairn. linked with moscow highland games. piping competition, junior piping comp. highland dancing, athletics and heavy events, tug o' war and more. for details email info@nairnhighlandgames.co.uk 18 saturday - 19 sunday cawdor castle garden tours with head gardener 11am & 2pm. included in normal gardens ticket. enquiries & ticket info call 01667 404401 or visit www.cawdorcastle.com 23 thursday ironworks summer showcase #7 7pm. 14+. feat. graham brown, thousand stars & fifi & rodaidh. for tickets or information call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com summer concert tour: jls from 5pm, northern meeting park, inverness. visit www.ents24.com for details and tickets. 24 friday summer in the city: status quo from 5pm, northern meeting park, inverness. visit www.ents24.com for details and tickets. 25 saturday jools holland and his rhythm & blues orchestra from 5pm, northern meeting park, inverness. for details and tickets visit www.ents24.com 26 sunday grantown-on-spey highland games at heithfield park, grantown-on-spey. events include 56lb weight for distance championship, highland dancing, solo piping, open tug o war, running, cycling, field and heavy events plus mass pipe bands. for details call mrs e watt on 01479 873237. 30 thursday ironworks summer showcase #8 7pm. 14+. feat. roadway, jake bolt & toby michaels rolling damned. for tickets or information call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
Come to Cullen for an action-packed weekend of fun, activities and entertainment for the whole family.
For full details on what's happening when, go to www.discovercullen.com, or e-mail community@discovercullen.com for more info ALSO
Cullen Skink World Championship 2012
Announcing the first ever Cullen Skink World Championship Sunday 22nd July 2012 For rules and an entry form, please visit www.discovercullen.com or e-mail: community@discovercullen.com. Also available from Cullen Paper Shop, Cullen Tourist Office and Cullen Bay Hotel
recipe
Chef’s Confidential Grilled asparagus, Stornoway black pudding, soft boiled egg & balsamic dressing This dish is currently on our menu at The Royal Hotel. It is a perfect light lunch or first course for dinner with family and friends. Serves 4 4 Thick slices Charles MacLeod black pudding 20 Asparagus spears (trimmed) 4 Large free range eggs, at room temperature Rocket leaves to garnish Sea salt & pepper Balsamic dressing – Whisk all ingredients together 100ml Extra virgin “ola” rapeseed oil 4 tbsp Balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp Cider vinegar 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 tbsp Caster sugar Salt & pepper to taste 1. Cook asparagus in boiling water for 1 minute, cool in cold water and drain on kitchen towel 2. Bring pan of water to boil, add 2 tbsp salt, then add the eggs Cook eggs for 5 ½ mins, cool in cold water then peel 3. Put the black pudding and asparagus on a non-stick tray, place under hot grill for about 2 minutes, turn over black pudding, cook for another 1-2 minutes, season asparagus to taste with salt and pepper 4. Cut eggs in half, place black pudding on plates, egg either side, asparagus on top, garnish with rocket and spoon over dressing
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Kris McKie, The Royal Hotel, Elgin
The Royal Hotel E L G I N A warm welcome awaits you at Elgin’s newest eatery. Our menus, showcasing seasonal and local ingredients, give a modern approach to dining
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN ThIS SPACE CALL EILIDh OR
DAVID ON
01309 690063
Monday - Saturday /XQFK SP ª'LQQHU SP SP Sunday Roasts 12 - 6pm Follow us on Facebook www.theroyalhotelelgin.co.uk
For reservations telephone 01343 542320
Station Rd, Elgin IV30 1QW
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travel
Dreaming of... Malta – Something for everyone
Rich in history, crystal clear seas and brilliant blue skies means that Malta and her Islands have something to offer most travellers. The fact that there is so much history and so many historical sites on the Island, never fails to amaze its visitors. Small but perfectly formed, Malta is only 17 miles by 8 miles, but whether you want the rich history of the country, snorkel and dive or simply relax, Malta has it all. With summer temperatures reaching over 30 degrees and winter temperatures rarely dipping below 15 degrees, you can holiday all year round with some great long stay deals to be had in the cooler months. A highlight is the Blue Grotto which is one of the islands gems, a series of natural caves and only accessible by boat you will be taken into caves where translucent waters are truly blue, giving the grotto its name. Visit the Mosta Dome which can be seen towering over the capital city of Valletta. Built by the Knights of St John, Valletta is rich in history and architectural treasures. It also makes a great city break. Another must is Mdina (say as M-Dina). The silent city is medieval and was the former capital. A fortified relic, it is reminiscent of an era which has long since disappeared. 20 Minutes by ferry is Malta’s sister island of Gozo. A typical Mediterranean island, it is a world apart from Malta. Greener and more fertile than Malta, the Gozitans live life at their own pace but now share their island with visitors to the selection of hotels from budget to luxury spa – or even a farmhouse for an authentic experience. If you can’t spare a week here try it as a two centre with Malta or it can be done in a day and use the hop on hop off bus travelling around the island or take your hire car over on the ferry !
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Information kindly supplied by
2-6 South Street, Elgin 01343 548844 ‡ +LJK Street, FRUUHV
www.beavtrav.com MALTA
MALTA cont.
Canifor Hotel 4* - 4wks dep 7th Jan ’13 – 2wks HB & 2wks B&B from .......£395 Panorama Hotel 3* -7nts A/I Nov from .....................£355 Dec from .....................£345
Qawra Palace 4* - 1wk H/B Jul from ........................£459 Aug from.......................£515 Sep from ......................£499
GOZO
Fortina Hotel 4* -2wks H/B & 1wk B&B– Nov from £539 Dec/Jan from...............£539 Feb from.......................£555
(incl free Ferry transfers) Calypso Hotel 4* - 2wks H/B & 1wk B&B –Nov from £550 Dec from ...................... £557 Jan13 from .................. £527
Soreda Hotel 4* - 1wk H/B July from ......................£455 Aug from.......................£419 Sept from .....................£439
Calypso Hotel 4* - 1wk H/B Nov from .....................£365 Dec from .....................£545 Jan13 from .................£335
"
ELGIN 01343 548844
beaver Travel
! !!
FORRES 01309 672203
Beaver Travel, 2-6 South Street, Elgin Also at: 78 High Street, Forres Beaver Travel is also a ticket agent for Eden Court Theatre, Inverness - No booking fee.
Elgin BID - Elgin City Centre Events Summer Family Fun Day – Saturday 21st July 2012 10AM – 4PM – Elgin City Centre Supporting the STV Appeal – for young people in Scotland living in poverty. Featuring: Themed Street market Bubbles the Clown Street Football Face Painter Craft Making Street Dance Jewellery making View the Nimrod Cockpit (from Moravia) Winners of the Talent Competition & Art Competition will be announced and presented with their prizes. (Closing Date for Entries - 10th July 2012) Talent Competition - Age categories - Up to 5 years, 6 - 9 years, 10 - 15 years & Adult category 16 years plus. For an Application Form contact: Jacqui Taylor by E mailing - jacqui@elginbid.co.uk. The winner’s will get a place on the stage at the Elgin BID Music Mania event in August. Art Competition – Your Favorite View of Elgin City Centre Age categories - Up to 5 years, 6 - 9 years, 10 - 15 years. To submit your entry (painting or photography) submit your entry on an A4 sheet of paper with your name, contact phone number and age on the back, to Jacqui Taylor at Elgin BID, 13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin, IV30 1BP. Prizes for the winners. A FUN FILLED DAY FOR ALL THE FAMILY!! Let’s all EMBRACE ELGIN and put the VIBRANCY back into the CITY CENTRE
St Giles Church
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Elgin Rotory Club
outdoor
e k i MRae WILD
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Exciting and thrilling are probably not the first words anyone thinks about to describe wildlife watching however it does have its moments. I have been fortunate to see lions hunting in the Serengeti, Grizzly bears catching salmon in Canada and other exciting events around the world. These events are a considerable challenge to see, and they take time and some dedication, so why do I mention them here? I have just spent a couple of weeks in the Cairngorms and have seen wildlife action to rival the excitement and thrill of anything I have seen anywhere in the world. Of course there is a downside, getting up at 4.00am to be in a hide next to a small loch just outside Aviemore for 5.00 am and then waiting.
All photograps are Copyright Mike Rae
Waiting for what? Within in an hour an osprey flies over the loch then disappears only to return a few minutes later. This time it is much lower and circles above our heads. The bird then starts an excited call, a sure sign it has seen a fish. It dives, only to pull out just a metre above the water, and starts circling again. Then a new dive and a splash just in front of our hide. The Osprey almost disappears underwater then emerges from the spray, grasping a totally shocked trout in one foot. It levers itself out of the water with powerful wing beats and takes to the air in a mass of water droplets that sparkle in the dawn sunlight. As the Osprey gains height it shakes its body, shedding more droplets, and grasps the trout with both feet holding it like a torpedo. Peace returns to the loch. From hitting the water to taking off can take the Osprey a little as three seconds, but three seconds of the most thrilling wildlife action I have seen anywhere. Then back to waiting, more ospreys may fish in loch or perhaps none. This morning we are lucky and two more trout are caught before we leave at 9.30. The excitement of watching the spectacular dives does not diminish. Herons also use the lochside for hunting and I get the chance to see a normally elusive Goosander drake chasing and catching a trout just metres from the hide. Obviously the chance to see Ospreys close up from ideal viewing conditions in a hide has to be paid for and the loch is stocked with trout of the right size to attract them. It is also possible to watch the Ospreys during the day from a hide further away as they must provide fish for their rapidly growing young in July and August. Over the last 30 years increasing numbers of Ospreys have been returning to Scotland to breed, and this is an outstanding good news conservation story. Ospreys need the long summer days and a reliable place to hunt to feed their very demanding young before returning to Africa for the winter. The Rothiemurchus Estate has a proud record over many years of encouraging Ospreys to catch fish at their fishing lochs near Aviemore. Watching the Ospreys fishing in the lochs helps to fund this. Mike Rae
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web: www.mikerae.com
email: mike.rae@btconnect.com
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al work of formal and inform cycling on the extensive net and g lkin wa tle gen oy At Culbin You can enj views from the tower. l and take in the stunning ing. trails. Follow the Hill 99 trai fect place for a family out l pinewood offering the per sta coa ul utif bea a . is le ride Roseis lk or cycle sandy beach or go for a wa Enjoy a picnic, relax on the For more information visit our untain bike routes, With miles of singletrack mo website or call us on 01466 794161 ing eth som Moray Monster Trails has www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland for everyone.
CERTIFIED CENTRE
TYRES BRAKES EXHAUSTS BATTERIES ALIGNMENT MOT Centre
Forres t Keith - 01542 882401 Huntly - 01466 794449
Index of Advertisers Anderson Removals ..............................................16 Beaver Travel ........................................................19 Burgie Horse Trials ................................................12 City of Elgin BID Limited ......................................19 Cullen Summer Festival ........................................15 Fast Fix ....................................15, 17,19, 21 and 23 GT Tyres Ltd ..........................................................22 Harrisons ................................................................2 Highland Birchwoods ..............Outside Back Cover Highland Green ....................................................15 Horizon Blinds ......................................................13 Linda Marlow Dog Grooming..................................3 Mackenzie & Cruickshank ......................................3 Michael Sharp Joinery ............................................5 Moray Council - Leisure ..........................................7
Moray Forestry Commission ................................22 Nairn Community & Arts Centre ..........................12 R McGregor Monumental Engraver......................21 Roof Wizard ............................................................5 Royal Hotel - Elgin ................................................17 Scotengineering ....................................................19 The Loft Bistro ......................................................21 Unique Beauty ..............................Front Cover, 3, 21 Wheelchair Care....................................................23
MOBILITY DEALS Wheelchairs
Scooters Riser/Recliners Electric Beds
Shoprider Sovereign 4 Scooter
ONLY
ÂŁ1,695
Tried and tested favourite for over 15yrs
Very Lightweight Transport Chair Ideal for travel
ONLY ÂŁ150
Large Selection Sporty/Lightweight Manual Chairs
01309 676677 Hours of Business MON - FRI 9am - 5pm Easy Parking & Disabled Toilet Facilities
21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate, Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl)
sales@wheelchaircare.co.uk