Lochaber Life #350 December 2022

An Dùbhlachd

At the heart of your community Davy’s Mexican Medics Hope

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Winter Wonderland

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15 years ago

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Beatha Lochabair December 2022 – Issue 350

Merry Christmas everyone

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06 16 Beatha Lochabair

contents

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HAPPY DECEMBER Here we are, in December, with 2023 fast approaching. Where has the time gone? One thing that can be said is we have all lived through some interesting times of late but at least recently we have had some return to ‘normality’. In this, the season of goodwill, many communities are celebrating being able to come together as groups and families by hosting their own celebrations, putting up Christmas trees and switching on colourful lights. Many of these will be accompanied by traditional carol singing, laughter, gifts and perhaps the appearance of a special guest bedecked in red. It is also a time for giving. When shopping for gifts, remember many of the ‘free’ events in which everyone can participate have been made possible by the hard work and planning of volunteers and donations of goods and money from local companies. They are all are due a big thank you and, in these difficult times, your support.

Have a great Christmas. Deagh Nollaig a bhith agad. Iain.

FRONT PAGE PHOTOGRAPH:

Front page: With the help of John Brydon, co-founder of the Kirsty’s Kids charity, Santa made a pre-Christmas visit delivering much-needed and appreciated gifts to people across Lochaber. Photograph: Iain Ferguson, alba.photos

EDITORIAL Iain Ferguson Email: iainpics@ googlemail.com

ADVERTISING Nicky Murphy Email: nmurphy@ wyvexmedia.co.uk

PRODUCTION Kevin McCubbin Email: kmccubbin@ wyvexmedia.co.uk

Panto reborn - oh yes it is!

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Residents Light up Christmas

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Reader’s photograph

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Recipe

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Christmas messages

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Helen and Davy’s Mexican Dream 16 Winter garden

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Alcohol survey

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Kinlochleven Men’s Shed

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Community Connections

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Thought for the Festive Month

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15 years ago

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Where in Lochaber?

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Travel in Time

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Festive Sports

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Published by Wyvex Media Limited Tel: 01397 703003 Website: www.obantimes.co.uk We hope to publish a wide range of interests and opinions. However, our contributors’ views are not necessarily our own. Material in Lochaber Life must not be reproduced without our written consent or that of the copyright owner. A statement of our terms and conditions for accepting advertisements is available on request. Published by Wyvex Media Limited.

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SHOWSTOPPERS REBORN WITH HANSEL AND GRETEL PANTO Iain Ferguson Pantomime time is all but upon us - ‘Oh yes it is’ - with local group Showstoppers preparing to whisk audiences off to the magical world of Hansel and Gretel.

Written and directed by Ryan Flay, who has also written previous Showstoppers pantos ‘The Swan Princess’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’ , this is the first one he is directing as well. It is a new take on the classic story featuring all the traditional pantomime characters with a few surprising twists along the way and will be the first pantomime performed in Fort William since 2011.

Hannah Calder is the producer and, having recently finished a Masters in Applied Arts and Social Practice, is bringing this experience to the show.

Showstoppers has a new committee headed by Amanda Meadows, who was a member of Showstoppers 15 years ago, as president.

The cast are: Hansel, Rhona Maitland; Gretel, Alice Campbell; the Wicked Witch, Jane Poulton; Fairy Cupcake, Leah Burns and Kylie Hickman; the Landlady, Samantha Wilson; Silly Billy, Amanda Meadows; Simple Simon, Sarah Davidson; Mrs Kipling, Bill McAlpine; the Good King, Michael Gillespie; and the Good Queen, Annabel Loughray. Ensemble: Suzanne McAlpine; Jenni MacInnes; Jasmine Adams and Shona Bell.

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Ryan Flay said: ‘When we put the advert up for auditions, we had so many people expressing interest which was a good sign there is still a desire for a group like this in Fort William.

‘We’re very fortunate to have the cast that we do, a few familiar faces to Showstoppers, a few returning people from years ago and a few new members. Everyone is incredibly dedicated and willing to work extremely hard to produce the best show we can.

‘The community has rallied round by buying tickets and offering their services including hairdressers, makeup artists, ticket sellers, backstage crew and graphic designers who are volunteering to help out.

‘I think Covid has really changed people’s mindset and they understand that not having this group would be a

tragedy for the town. Although we’ve had loads of offers for help, we could always use more.

If anyone has any sort of skill to offer, even just making tea and coffee, we’ll happily have them on board.’

Hansel and Gretel will be staged in Kilmallie Community Centre on January 5, 6 and 7 2023 at 7.30pm, with a 2pm matinee on Friday January 6 and Saturday January 7.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, plus booking fee, and £8 for children and concessions, plus booking fee, and can be bought on Eventbrite. Anyone who doesn’t have access to Eventbrite should visit the Lochaber Showstoppers Facebook page for assistance.

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RESIDENTS LIGHT UP CHRISTMAS

Residents groups across the area will light up their communities for Christmas when they switch on decorated trees and host events.

On December 2, Claggan Residents Association will gather around their tree at 6pm and the lights go on at Kilmallie Community Centre at 7pm.

Over in Caol, a Christmas event gets under way from 4.30pm.

On Tuesday December 6, Plantation residents light their tree at 6pm, with Upper Achintore Regeneration Group doing the same on Friday December 9 at 6pm.

In Caol, the residents group in partnership with Caol Community Council and Highland Council’s Tenant Participation Team are having their biggest Christmas event in years.

Starting at 4.30pm, Santa will

be going round various areas in Caol, before arriving at the shopping area around 5.30pm to switch on the tree lights and enjoy the Christmas cheer with Caol and St Columba’s schools blasting out tunes.

An atmospheric shot by Kerry Shearer as a ship emerges from the mist on the Caledonian Canal. Kerry captured the shot when she was walking her dog.

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• INGREDIENTS •

SMALL CHRISTMAS CAKES Something new and old to try this festive season taken from a 1920s recipe. Really simple to do and quantities can be varied to suit.

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• Chopped apples • Raisins • Brown sugar • Candied peel • Currants

• METHOD • Take equal weight of chopped apples and raisins, brown sugar, candied peel and currants.

To 1lb (454g) of mixture put juice and rind of lemon and 1/2 teaspoonful of mixed spice.

Make into small cakes wrapped with flaky pastry, brush over with egg white and sprinkle with sugar.

Place in oven at 200 degrees centigrade for 10 to 15 minutes.

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CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM IAN BLACKFORD MP It is hard to believe that 2022 will soon be drawing to a close. This time last year we were starting to feel optimistic about the future, as the Covid-19 pandemic receded and life started to return to some level of normality.

Sadly, however, we find ourselves facing yet another difficult period with spiralling energy bills and an alarming cost of living crisis looming over us all.

This is bound to cast a shadow over the festive period for many individuals, families and businesses, who are facing hardship and misery as a direct result of the impending recession.

I know many of you will be feeling uncertain and this festive season might represent yet another stress. But it is important to remain

hopeful. One thing the pandemic demonstrated is the capacity for kindness shown by individuals and communities who rose to the challenge and supported others in a time of great need.

The various lockdowns also highlighted the importance of contact with family and friends over the festive period and the fact that isolation and loneliness can hit people especially hard over this period.

Perhaps, this is the year when we recognise that the best gift we can give to others is our time and attention. For those without family nearby, a number of organisations offer support at this time of year so please don’t be afraid to reach out.

As always, I send my heartfelt thanks to the emergency services

for their truly heroic efforts throughout the past year. We all owe a huge debt of gratitude to them – and all frontline workers – for showing bravery, hard work and ingenuity in the face of on-going challenges.

And - speaking of hope - for many like myself, who believe in self-determination, next year offers the hope of a new, better future for my constituents and Scotland as a whole with the opportunity for a Referendum on Independence.

I would like to send my best wishes to all constituents and hope a healthier, happier future awaits us all in 2023. Have a safe and peaceful festive period and please, if you need assistance at this time, contact me and I will do my best to help you – or to put you in touch with the best organisation to do so.

Email: ian.blackford.mp @parliament.uk / Tel: 01397 700030 / 01349 866397

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM KATE FORBES MSP Following the birth of my beautiful daughter Naomi in August, Christmas will be different for me this year. It’s fair to say my everyday routine has changed.

As we approach the festive season, many of us hope Christmas will be a refreshing change from work and studies. For others, though, it will be a time of sadness and fear – having lost a loved one this past year or because of social isolation, employment or health worries. It has never been more important for each of us to look out for our neighbour – whether that is a colleague, friend or stranger. I am immensely

impressed how local volunteer groups and businesses have risen to that challenge across Lochaber.

More than ever before, our world needs peace in the face of chaos and uncertainty.

As we are buffeted by the winds of constitutional change, health worries and economic calamity, there might not appear to be cause for peace. But Christmas reminds us of the birth of Jesus

Christ, who came to give peace – peace with God, peace with each other and peace with ourselves.

I hope you know the peace which rises above the troubles of our world this Christmas.

I wish you contentment this festive period and through-

out 2023.

Nollaig Chridheil agus Bliadhna Mhath Ùr dhuibh uile.

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Our advice adds up - Lochaber Citizens Advice Bureau Feeling the squeeze of the cost of living crisis? Our advice adds up.

Things can be pretty scary just now with energy bills going up, rising prices in the shops and higher interest rates. The Citizens Advice network provides advice that could make a real difference to your finances. You can get help from us in a range of ways.

Get help online Feeling lost about money?

Our Money Map tool moneymap. scot/ directs you to online help finding ways to make the most of your money, decrease your bills and help meet the costs of daily living.

Access free support online at www.

citizensadvice.org. uk/scotland/ from our public advice site, including information on budgeting, what to do if you are struggling to pay your bills and on dealing with debt.

Find out if you are missing out on making savings on your council tax bills. Our council tax tool www. checkmycounciltax.scot/ tells you quickly if you are entitled to a discount, reduction or exemption.

If you are thinking about claiming Universal Credit for the first time, we can help. Our Help to Claim advisers are available by webchat or

telephone 0800 023 2581, Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm) and can guide you through the process, whether you are looking for answers to quick questions or step-bystep support to make your claim.

Find your local CAB Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau to get free, confidential and impartial advice. An adviser will talk through your situation and work out the next steps. Find your local bureau and get in touch today. www. lochabercab.org.uk We don’t judge, we just help.

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CLOSING: We will close at 12 noon on Thursday 22nd December’22 Re-opening on Wednesday 4th January 2023

Lochaber

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DURING OPENING HOURS 10am-3pm, TELEPHONE 01397 705311 Message can be left EMAIL – Advice@lochabercab.org.uk

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DIVER DAVY FUNDRAISING TO HONOUR MEXICAN MEDICS Iain Ferguson A former deep sea diver who came close to death after catching Covid while working in Mexico is planning a number of challenges leading up to conquering the Grey Corries mountain range in a wheelchair to raise money for the people who helped him while he was in hospital.

Davy Duncan, aged 60, was a saturation diver who in February 2021 took up a job in Mexico. He passed all the tests needed to travel and join his ship and a strict fitness test be-

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fore he started work. However, just a week after boarding the ship and the day after his 59th birthday, he tested positive, was isolated on board and flown off to be treated.

Unfortunately, he went downhill rapidly, suffering multiple organ failure and was put in an induced coma so he could be moved to a hospital in Villahermosa. At this point medical staff did not expect him to live and after surviving his first night was given a life expectancy of only five days.

His partner, Helen Smith from

Fort William, flew to Mexico to be by his side and stayed there for the two months, supporting him day-to-day in the hope that by some miracle she would be able to bring him home.

Language was a huge problem as very few people spoke English and as the area was well off the tourist trail it was not considered safe for visitors, she was told.

Despite all this, Helen found people were only too willing to help, with the hotel receptionist - the only person with fluent

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English - being given time off work to accompany her to the hospital and translate what the medics were saying.

There was also a tremendous response when Davy needed blood which being a particularly rare type was in short supply. The hotel manager and all of the staff were tested, even the local supermarket appealed to staff. There was a tremendous public response, eventually bringing two soldiers and a police officer to donate.

After suffering strokes and several operations, Davy was considered stable enough to fly home on a dedicated medical flight, eventually arriving in Inverness where he spent another six months in hospital, Helen making the 140-mile round trip every day to be with him and help with his care. It was during one of these visits that he found the words to propose and, of course, she accepted.

Following further treatment

he was moved to Fort William’s Belford Hospital and eventually, home, 13 months after being admitted to hospital in Mexico.

Still with mobility issues, apart from planning their wedding next April, where he is determined to join her for the first dance he, again with Helen by his side, is preparing for a mountain adventure, raising funds to bring the people who did so much in Mexico to Scotland for the wedding.

The charity Equal Adventure, based in Grantown on Spey, will help him by providing an accessible chair and there has also been a huge response from volunteer hill runners/ walkers across the country to support his dream.

The plan is to raise enough money for his Mexican ‘family’ to fly over, something most of them could never afford. People in Fort William have also offered free accommodation for them.

Davy said: ‘I owe my life to these people and need to get them here, not only as a thank you, but so that I can meet them properly and let them see what their goodness has allowed me to achieve.’

Helen echoed his sentiment saying: ‘Davy still has a smile to light up any room and is so motivated and determined to make sure those who did so much for him can see it.’

Given the time frame, it may be the mountain challenge will not be until spring, after the wedding. But this will give Davy time to work up to it with smaller challenges along the way.

It is hoped to bring eight to ten people, plus their partners, over for the wedding. This includes doctors who saved him, the physio who kept him working and motivated him, a nurse who was always so full of energy, along with team members from the hotel who looked after Helen so well.

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MCLAUCHLAN – JOAN 1936 – 2022 (Ballachulish) Peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday 4th October 2022, Joan Helen McLauchlan (née Marshall), aged 86 years, Tulliemet, Ballachulish.

Beloved wife to Ronnie, a much-loved mum to Fraser, Fiona, Trish and Eilidh, a wonderful grandmother to her 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren, a caring relative and a good friend to many. Greatly missed.

MACDONALD – ELLEN 1943 – 2022 (Lochyside, formerly Claggan) Sadly, but peacefully, in the care of CAU – Belford Hospital, on Tuesday 11th October 2022, Ellen Elsie Jean MacDonald (née Morren), aged 79 years, Riverside Park, Lochyside, formerly of Carn Dearg Claggan for many years.

A beloved wife to the late Lachie MacDonald, a treasured mum to John, Donald and Ellen and mother-in-law to Eleanor, also Ellen’s partner John, a much-loved relative, neighbour and a good friend to many. So greatly missed.

LAING – JEAN 1938 – 2022 (Corpach) Sadly, but peacefully, in the loving care of Moss Park Care Home, on Wednesday 19th October 2022, Jean Mathieson Laing (née Cruickshank), aged 84 years, Hillview Drive, Corpach, Fort William. A beloved wife to the late Allan, a dearly loved mum Derek, Michael and David and mother-in-law to Meg, Anne Marie and Lynne, a wonderful granny to Sara, Peter, Rachel and Natalie and a proud great granny to Aaron and Liam, a much-loved auntie to Stephen, a caring neighbour and a good friend to many. So greatly missed.

CAMERON – RORY 1965 – 2022 (Inverlochy) Sadly, but peacefully, with his loving family by his side, on Sunday 16th October 2022, Rory MacDonald Cameron, aged 57 years, Abrach Road, Inverlochy, Fort William, Rory, together with John and Michael Delaney, successfully set up Nevis Builders and for many years worked in and around Fort William and Lochaber. A loving partner to Tricia and a muchloved dad to Molly, a caring brother to Duncan and a best friend to John and Michael Delaney and a friend to so many. So greatly missed.

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BEATSON – JOHN 1940 – 2022 (Claggan) Peacefully at home, on Saturday 15th October 2022, John David Robert Andrew Beatson, known to all as Johnny, aged 82 years, Tom Na Faidhir, Claggan, Fort William, former employee with Marine Harvest and Scottish Hydro. A loving partner of the late Ann Donaldson, a much-loved relative, neighbour and friend. Rest In Peace.

MACPHERSON – FLORA 1937 – 2022 (Caol) Peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, at the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Tuesday 25th October 2022, Flora MacPherson (formerly Sinclair), aged 85 years, 3 Gulvain Crescent, Caol, Fort William. A loving mum to Angus, Robbie, Flora, Magnus and the late Lachie and mother-inlaw to Chrissie and Nicola, a much-loved nanna and great nanna to all her grandchildren, a caring auntie, neighbour and friend. Sadly missed.

LIVINGSTONE – GINA 1949 – 2022 (Inverlochy) Sadly, following a short illness, with her loved ones by her side, at the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Monday 31st October 2022, Regina Livingstone (Gina), aged 73 years, Inverlochy Court, Inverlochy, Fort William. A loving wife to Sandy, a much-loved mum to Michelle, Kim and Dean, a wonderful grandma and great grandma to all her grandchildren, a very special friend to John and Margaret Cameron, a caring relative, a good friend to many. So greatly missed.

JOHNSTONE – PETER 1966 – 2022 (Glencoe) Peacefully, in the loving care of Abbeyfield Care Home, Ballachulish, on Tuesday 18th October 2022, after a long 16 year battle with MS bravely borne, Peter James Johnstone, aged 55 years, Upper Carnoch, Glencoe, a devoted family man who enjoyed climbing and photography.

A beloved husband to Jeanette, a loving Dad to Alasdair, a much-loved son to Jenny and the late Jimmy, a caring brother to Nikki, a neighbour and a good friend to many. Sadly missed.

RITCHIE – MARY 1930 – 2022 (Mallaig) Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Friday 14th October 2022, Mary Anne Ritchie (Mallaig Bheag), aged 92 years, Rhubana View, Mallaig, one of 10 children, Mary trained as a nurse then married to the late Pat, who was in the Merchant Navy. After marriage they moved to Nigeria (1958) for around 10 years then onto Zambia before returning to Scotland in 1973. Mary worked in the West Highland hotel in Mallaig where at the age of 72 Mary retired. Mary a loving mum to Chris and Gerard and a wonderful Grandma to Eleanor, Annabel, Angus and Findlay, and also a great friend to so many. RIP.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS 10 Ba�lefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB Tel (24 Hour): 01397 701110 www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk

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WORKING TOGETHER FOR

festive fun

‘Christmas time, mistletoe and wine’ may be familiar to you as a festive hit record and in many locations throughout Lochaber, the continuing verse of ‘children singing Christian rhymes’ will also be a fact.

Several communities have formed groups to look after the welfare of local people, including festive events including putting up Christmas trees and lights.

However big or small, you can be sure much of the support and funding will have come from local businesses.

In these days when it is easy to order goods and Christmas presents from big online companies, it is often forgotten that many of these products are also available in local shops and from other suppliers on your doorstep.

Turning again to the internet, regular posts on social media say ‘When you buy from my local business you are paying for my children to go to local schools and to make sure that

I can serve the community we live in and support local good causes - not so that a highly paid chief executive of a multi-national can buy his third holiday home in the sun’.

Looking at it from that perspective, isn’t it sensible to support those who, in return, support you?

Thanks to much volunteer participation, Caol is staging its biggest Christmas fair on December 2, with Santa touring the village, stopping at several locations to light up Christmas trees, every one donated by a local business.

In Fort William, volunteers from the Fort William Festive Fund have organised an evening of entertainment in the High Street on November 25 from 6pm to 9pm including a visit from the man in red, who will switch on

the lights then, with the help of elves, will set up a grotto to distribute presents and hear from youngsters what they would like for Christmas.

Shops will be open to welcome revellers, many also offering free festive fair and competitions as well as the chance to do Christmas shopping.

The next day, Santa once again makes an appearance, hitching up reindeer to his sleigh at 11am before leading a parade to the Nevis Centre where the Rotary Club of Lochaber is holding its annual Christmas Festival, showcasing the immense and diverse range of local business and their locally produced goods.

Shop local, buy local and enjoy local activities sponsored by local businesses is another important message of Christmas.

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C HRISTM AS PRESENT ?

G IFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

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What’s On at The Nevis Centre Thursday 24th November // Doors open 7.30pm

BEAT THE DRUM PRESENTS THE RUNRIG EXPERIENCE

Book NOW!

Tickets £24 inc booking fee.

Book at www.neviscentre.co.uk/whats-on

Saturday 26th November // 9.30am-4.30pm

ROTARY CLUB CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Designer Craft and Food Fair as part of the overall festival!

Monday 2nd January // Doors open 7pm

SKERRYVORE

They’re back! After 2 years of Covid enforced absence, Skerryvore and Friends, New Year’s Gig returns to the Nevis Centre! £25.00 - www.skerryvore.com

Food - Music - Games & Entertainment! www.neviscentre.co.uk/events

REGULAR ACTIVITIES

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER

Regular Activities for P1-P7

CLUB • YOUTH CLUB • GLEE GIRLS CLUB • Term time only

check Facebook for details and session tickets

For more information and tickets visit www.neviscentre.co.uk Or call us on 01397 700707

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Winter wonderland

Iain Ferguson

Cold days, dark nights, frost and perhaps snow amidst the usual rain can all be expected, maybe even with some dry days.

So what to do? It is a good time to start tidying up the garden, clearing away all the withered plants, raking up leaves - but leave some for bugs.

As the weather has not been too extreme to date, you should watch out for hedgehogs who may well be doing some of their last foraging trips before settling down to hibernation.

In my own garden, I’m fairly certain one lives under the shed and, of late, it has appeared in the garden more and more, sometimes at the door, where bird seed falls from the feeder, or in the front garden near the

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fat ball holder, perhaps to take advantage of the crumbs which the birds make when pecking at them.

Late at night, I happened to disturb a little hedgehog doing

just that, who, rather than curling up into a ball, ran for cover in nearby ferns. Hopefully I made this up to him by rolling the fat ball over to near the point where he vanished.

As in mentioned in previous issues, do try to feed the birds to help them through the cold, sharp days and nights when the usual insect larvae or other natural food sources are in short supply. Seeds and fat balls are still relatively inexpensive, but these days it is perhaps also quite a struggle to keep human families fed and warm.

Free to everyone are walks in the wonderful Lochaber countryside, no matter the weather and to stare up into the sky for even more of nature’s wonders.

Hopefully, if you get some time off during the festive season, the weather will be kind enough to enjoy a peaceful outing on foot.

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RESIDENTS OF FORT WILLIAM ASKED FOR VIEWS ON ALCOHOL AND YOUNG PEOPLE Residents of Fort William are being to take part in a survey, giving their views on the effect of alcohol on young people in the area and what could be done to help.

One solution being suggested by a partnership of various local agencies to establish a Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) in the Fort William area.

CAPs are made up of partnerships between local authorities, police, schools, retailers, neighbourhood groups and health providers, working together to tackle alcohol-related harm to young people and improve the quality of life for residents.

The proposed CAP will work together to take a proactive approach to alcohol education, ensuring that young people are equipped to make the right decisions about issues including alcohol, anti-social

and criminal behaviour. The CAP will also look at providing activities for local young people through youth services and local charities.

Sergeant Gavin Law, who is based at Fort William Police Station believes that a CAP will promote a health and wellbeing message to young people, allowing them to be better informed about the harm that alcohol can cause. If successful, CAP model will be extended to other areas in Lochaber. Sergeant Law said, “We are keen to work together to establish a CAP in the Fort William and as a first step we will be gathering some baseline information from young people and retailers in the area using surveys that will be carried out online and in person. We would also like to gather some information from residents of

Fort William about the impact the underage drinking has on them and again we will do this through a survey. I would encourage residents to complete the survey, which is completely anonymous, as its important we hear their views about what we should be doing” The residents’ survey can be found on this link or by scanning the QR code. Leaflets explaining the purpose of the survey and the need for gaining your views are all being distributed to shops and venues throughout the area. https://www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/7GZZWSQ

There are over 200 CAPs in England, Scotland, and Wales.

They bring together a range of local stakeholders with a shared interest in preventing underage drinking and encouraging responsible drinking among young adults. More information about CAP can be found at www.communityalcoholpartnerships.co.uk

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Kinlochleven Men’s Shed - keen to fund their dream Iain Ferguson Members of Kinlochleven Men’s Shed (KMS) face a catch 22 situation. They are keen to get fully operational, with potential finance available to do so, but only if they are already open.

Tony Walters, secretary/ treasurer, shares their history over three years and highlights the challenges they have faced to get the shed up and running.

‘In early 2019, we started to turn a great idea into a reality.

A small group of ordinary guys formed a steering group to provide opportunities for men in South Lochaber to meet and pursue recreational activities in their own building.

‘We attracted 20 active members and developed a three-year business plan which was essential to support our fundraising activities. In April 2020, our application to

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become a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation was accepted.

‘We ended our first year on a high with a celebratory curry night to recognise all the hard work and achievements, but suddenly, our normal became not normal any more when the coronavirus pandemic brought a stop to all our renovation and social activities.

‘Before the pandemic, KMS was invited to participate in a food distribution initiative.

Fortunately, this was already in place when the pandemic hit and the Shed was able to meet the urgent needs of the community. We were also partnered with Morrisons to distribute spare food locally to those in need.

‘When our ‘Black Shed’ was purchased, it required renovation before we could use it for activities. The roof required strengthening and a major upgrade of the electrics was required. An initial quote to connect the shed to mains water was £10,000, a major stumbling block to a small charity operating in a pandemic environment where the need for frequent handwashing and cleaning is essential.

‘We held our first annual

general meeting and elected our first trustees and found the original quotation for the electrical renovation had increased significantly and timber for the toilet had doubled in price. All of this was quite a shock when we had already received funding to cover our original requirements.

‘A stumbling block is that some funders are reluctant to support facilities that are not yet open and providing service, so we face a catch 22 situation.

We require funds to open the shed fully, but can’t secure funds as we are not yet open.

‘If you can partner up with us to make this dream become a reality or are just interested in the work of the Kinlochleven Men’s Shed, please contact me, Tony Walters at KMS@Letzdrive. co.uk Follow the Shed on Facebook for their latest news.

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08/11/2022 09:24:11

Community consulted on revised plans for Culachy Wind Farm Residents from across Fort Augustus and Invergarry attended events in late October to learn more about the proposals from Fred. Olsen Renewables, to develop Culachy Wind Farm, south of Fort Augustus.

Attendees at the events were able to view the revised plans for a wind farm on the Culachy Estate approximately 7.5kms south of Fort Augustus and meet with members of the Fred. Olsen Renewables team to hear about how the plans had changed since earlier that year.

The proposals on display showed how the company had reduced the number of turbines on the site, as well as the height.

The final plans contained eight turbines with a height of up to 200m to tip – delivering 57MW of clean electricity.

The display helped to demonstrate how the proposals had

been changed to minimise visual impact from Fort Augustus and communicate how the wind farm will deliver a range of benefits including a community fund amounting to more than £9m.

You can view the plans at www.culachywind.co.uk

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08/11/2022 09:24:14

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08/11/2022 09:24:15

Stokes Memorials Serving Argyll, the Highlands & Islands for over 35 Years

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08/11/2022 09:24:17

Giving the gift of time Jo Cowan It’s been one of these years.

As we rush towards another one, I’m reflecting on how much just giving our time can mean to our family and friends, to our communities and to ourselves.

We say ‘spending time’ because it is valuable. It’s valuable to old and young.

Making time to chat with, or visit, the older folk in our lives can sometimes be difficult – but you spending even a short time with them can mean a lot to someone who feels they don’t matter or feels disconnected.

Volunteering time in our communities was the theme of Voluntary Action Lochaber’s article in October’s Lochaber Life. If you feel you can give some time to your community, approach one of Lochaber’s many voluntary organisations, community associations or tenants’ groups for a chat.

You can also go along to Voluntary Action Lochaber at An Drochaid in Claggan to ask about the opportunities available, check for openings on www. valochaber.org, contact

Dani on 01397 706044 or email volunteering@ valochaber.org Many community organisations would welcome more volunteers to extend the help they can provide.

It’s not only voluntary time that can make a difference in these difficult times.

With a serious shortage of care and support workers, considering working even part-time in a paid position in care could make an immense difference to people’s lives.

If you have the time, care and compassion needed, why not think about taking steps to find out more about this?

Giving the gift of time to yourself is really important too. Whether it’s a walk outside, or a day on the hills, a regular catch up with a pal,

or just a quick pop in for a blether, time to read, or just time to be – stop the clock and find the time for it.

For any older person feeling alone, remember that many people are giving time because they care about that.

Age Scotland’s Helpline offers friendship as well as information and advice. It’s free to call and available Monday - Friday 9am to 5pm.

Call on 0800 12 44 222.

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08/11/2022 09:24:18

It must have been hard for her being unable to refer to ‘my What will Christmas husband and I’. She 2022 bring? Welcome back Lo- expressed sympathy for those chaber Rotary Club Christmas who, like herself, had lost Festival. Last year my husband loved ones. As most of my and I were so delighted to re- generation do, she liked to turn to our tradition of being sing carols, ‘as long as the tune with family that we hired a is well known’. The Christmas taxi to take us to our daughstory could ‘speak to the child ter’s home in the central belt. that is in us all’ and ‘teach us a You may spot a phrase above lesson’ continued the Queen, which was a favourite of the who was respected by people late Queen. Her last Christmas of all faiths or none. So she speech, watched by nine was able to witness to her million people - more than faith without, to use an old any other programme - will be fashioned phrase, ‘ramming a hard act for King Charles to religion down people’s follow. throats’.

We ordinary Christians don’t have to broadcast speeches but we may find it just as hard to talk about faith to our contacts, as we would to appear on television. Could we ask God daily how we could help someone, not only in kind deeds, but to tell them what HE has done for us, through the death and resurrection of the Christ of Christmas? Or would we in that respect find the late Queen a hard act to follow? In Proverbs 15.23 the writer says ‘What a joy it is to find the right word for the right occasion’.

I wish you this kind of joy this Christmas.

Kilmallie Playgroup children took over the village hall to stage their nativity play to a packed and delighted audience of friends and family. Photograph: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image

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08/11/2022 09:24:19

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08/11/2022 09:24:20

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08/11/2022 09:24:22

Holding back the water, snow and ice - but where?

LAST MONTH: easy one for shinty players, bird frightener in the stand at An Aird.

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08/11/2022 09:24:24

TRAVEL IN TIME REVISITED Iain Ferguson In last December’s Lochaber Life, we carried a story appealing for information on ‘Thomson the photographer’ who lived in Cameron Square, Fort William.

The appeal came from Belgian historian, researcher and writer Estelle Slegers Helsen who had discovered the work of Thomson in a series of books ‘The Highlands in Colour’ dating from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.

Her intention was to produce her own book on his work, travelling across the area reproducing as exactly as possible his images in the present day.

One year on, after having tracked down a few people who knew him and his work as well as a member of his family - the result is a book prepared, published and available for purchase in time for Christmas.

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‘Travel in Time, Revisiting Places from the Past’ with images from around Lochaber is available in The Highland Bookshop and West Highland Museum.

Estelle said: ‘It has been a very interesting journey, meeting many people who have been so helpful with my research, which I am delighted to say has come together in book.

‘It was fascinating finding

the locations and working out the exact position from where he took his picture, then reproduce it as closely as possible. Many of the places were still similar, but others had changed completely over time, but I did my best to make sure things were as accurate as possible.

‘Thank you to everyone who played a part in this. I hope they like the final result.’

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08/11/2022 09:24:25

Festive Sports Iain Ferguson Living up to its title of Outdoor Capital, there is always some sort of sporting activity going on, even over the festive season. Whether a participant or spectator, local or visitor it is a great opportunity to take in something new.

After the perhaps over indulgence of Christmas Day, it can be great fun not to sit back and watch television but to get out and watch some live action, perhaps even shouting words of encouragement to those taking part.

On Boxing Day, Lochaber Rugby Club will almost certainly be on the field at Banavie in a Captain’s v President’s Select match. With a good mix of age and experience in each of the sides and a great sense of fun as well as some serious rugby, spectators are always welcome to join regulars on ‘the hill’ to shout advice and helpful suggestions to players and referee in between the many ‘refreshment’ breaks.

Hail, rain, snow or sunshine, members of Lochaber Athletic

Club will also be enjoying the great outdoors with a run through woodland, along forest tracks and up muddy hills, finishing back where they started with big smiles.

From past experience over many years, I have observed that many of these people don’t even have the decency to be out of breath after a gruelling few miles. Taking to the liquid environment, other hardy souls in the

outdoor swimming club enjoy the waters of Loch Linnhe throughout the year, with no stopping for Christmas or New Year, the main difference being that festive cakes and fair are provided to add to the fun.

Indoors at least, one yearround gym will be open for the body builders amongst you and for outdoor enthusiasts the numerous tracks and hills will be there for your indulgence.

More detailed information can found on the various club social media pages.

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08/11/2022 09:24:29

47kg Propane 19kg Propane 13kg Butane 2nd hand caravans and lodges available for off site sale delivery can be arranged anywhere in the UK. Available to view by appointment 5

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08/11/2022 09:24:30

T: 01397 712373 M: 07884 185 279

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08/11/2022 09:24:31

K

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Ktrees Ltd offers a professional and comprehensive Arboricultural and tree surgery service With over 10 years experience in the business No job too big or too small Give us a phone for a free quotation Available in Lochaber & surrounding areas 07827 515023

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08/11/2022 09:24:33

50 BEST CINEMAS IN THE UK

There’s so much going on at highland cinema this season!

A Christmas Carol Theatre Production, The Nutcracker Ballet, the Berliner Philharmoniker New Year’s Eve Concert, Matilda The Musical, Avatar 2 and more! work, friends and family nights out

IT’s Back!

don’t miss our quiz Nights, every wed at 7:30pm in the café bar!

plan a great xmas party at highland cinema! check our website or email us for our special christmas deals

Join in with our Scottish Trad music sessions in the Café Bar every 3rd sunday of the month

Screenings of classic, cult and other films of cinematic note!

Winter menu with warming pasta dishes, seasonal pizzas and more + new 10% off for cinema goers!

www.highlandcinema.co.uk Find us easily at the heart of Fort William, Cameron Square Lochaber Life December 2022.indd 44

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