Lochaber Life #333 July 2021

At the heart of your community 12

Arts of Lochaber

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Nevis Hillwalkers

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An t-Iuchar

Beatha Lochabair

Cocktail recipe

July 2021 – Issue 333

Return of the Ally Beag Trial

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Ardrhu House

A little bit of magic and a whole lot of luxury The summer has started and there’s no better way to step into it than with a visit to Ardrhu House to delight all your senses and indulge in a culinary feast alongside your spa day or on its own.

In addition to signature spa packages, Ardrhu House now serves an eclectic à la carte lunch and a three-course dinner menu for £39.95 pp.

Each day, limited places are available for dinner for nonresidents in an intimate setting inside or in one of the outdoor dome settings which feel cosy and sheltered from the rain and the ubiquitous midge.

Imagine long afternoons sipping a glass of our signature champagne-based cocktail, Victory, whilst soaking up the views from the garden or from our hot tub overlooking Loch Linnhe, watching the sunset and letting all your worries drift away...that’s just what you have been missing all this time.

And that wonderful champagne cream tea, previously offered only on spa days, is now available for all guests at £22 for one and £40 for two.

Catch up on those cancelled

celebrations and treat yourself and your loved ones to a visit to Ardrhu House.

Gift vouchers are available for dining or the spa, without an expiry date.

‘Summer Spa la Carte’ is a perfect package of services to restore and revive your body and soul. £120 for one and £220 for two, including breakfast or the famous afternoon tea.

The spa offers remain truly à la carte: you buy the time and choose whatever treatments or products you desire with plenty of expert help to make the wisest decision. Treatment time upgrades are available at £20 per extra 30 minutes.

The emerald steam room, Finnish sauna, hydro-jet shower and outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking Loch Linnhe await you, where they use worldfamous brands Ila, Templespa and Paul Mitchell.

Massage choices vary in length and include a therapeutic range.

The massage treatments are popular with male and female customers and a couple’s visit includes treatments in the same room, side-by-side.

For the full story on Ardrhu House’s magic touch, to design your Spa la Carte experience or to have a look at everything we have to offer visit www. ardrhuhouse.com

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06 13 Beatha Lochabair

contents

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JULY FREEDOM?

Invergarry School Arts

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Just when it looked as though Covid restrictions were finally nearing the end, a localised outbreak in Fort William caused far reaching disruption to life and activities right across the area. Hopefully this is now under control, but do please remember to exercise care in everything you do for at least a wee while. This month, well done for the fantastic response to the Mr Mackintosh appeal, follow the arts trail in Invergarry, read about a wee coo who, appropriately, lives on Cow Hill, plans for outdoor entertainment, think about getting into the hills, or even sit down (hopefully in the sun) with a simple-to-make and sip cocktail. Welcome to summer. Fáilte go dtí an samhradh. Iain.

Mr MacIntosh found

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Reader’s picture

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Recipe - Daiquiri

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Eagles away

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Book review Wee Bull

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Front page pHOTOGRAPH:

Arts of Lochaber

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Riders set off on the Ally Beag Trial in Glen Nevis for one of the first official motorcycle events to held in Lochaber since last year’s lockdown. Photograph:

Ally Beag Bike Trials

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Community Connections

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Thought for the month

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15 years ago

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Where in Lochaber?

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Nevis Hillwalking Club

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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

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 Ltd.

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Louise Paget and Joyce (Brìghde) Gilbert This last year has been difficult for everyone. At Invergarry Primary Parent Council restrictions have meant that our normal fundraising activities have been impossible. However, we are currently organising an art trail – Invergarry Primary Rocks! – made up of painted rocks placed around Invergarry.

Our first location is the Ciste Dubh trail by the River Garry, with other nearby sites to follow. The trail will be active during July and August and there will be a leaflet-map available at the art trail locations and from local outlets. We aim to raise funds by inviting visitors to our art trail to donate online to our fundraising page.

We are lucky to be supported by an artistic community and several professional artists who are taking inspiration from the

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nature, culture and history of our wonderful area.

A story which might inspire is about the Glen Garry Tarbhaighre or water-bull. This story was collected by Daphne Pochin Mould, who lived in Fort Augustus in 1950. At the head of Loch Garry is Eilean na Cloinne – the Children’s Island.

Eight children are said to have been playing there when a strange monster came out of the water. It was a water-bull.

The children immediately wanted to ride on its back and seven of them clambered on, but the eighth, more canny, first touched the creature’s side with his finger. He found that he couldn’t withdraw the

finger again. Seizing a nearby sickle, he cut the finger off and alone survived to tell the tale, for the beast, with a roar of rage, plunged below the water again, with the seven children on its back. Later their seven hearts were found floating on the river…

Luckily the only Tarbh-aighre in Glengarry this summer will be painted on stones.

Thank you to those already involved, especially our generous sponsors and please look at our Facebook and Just Giving pages to learn more! www.facebook.com/ Invergarry-PrimaryRocks-107812061457296

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MR MACKINTOSH FOUND

After last month’s appeal for information on Charles Mackintosh, two readers, A J MacDonell and Connie Anderson, kindly came forward with some detailed information which will be passed on to the lady who made the enquiry.

Many thanks to them.

The house he built, Pinegrove in Fort William, is now home to Mr A J MacDonell and retains many original features. About 29 years ago he was given the picture opposite of the Mackintosh family by a relation of theirs who dropped in to see the house. It was taken on the entrance doorstep, which is the same today as it was then. During some restoration work Mr MacDonell also found

the signature of a joiner, John MacMillan, who helped build the house in 1901.

Research by Connie Anderson revealed that Mr Mackintosh was born in Inverness in1866 to Charles Mackintosh and Anne (Findlater) and by 1891 he was a civil engineer living in Dunoon with his wife Josephine (Calder). In 1901 Charles and Anne, with their five children, are still in Dunoon but shortly afterwards he became master of works for Lochaber District, built Pinegrove and had another son in 1902. His presence in the area is also noted in a few photographs appearing in Lochaber Memories, Masonic

records and he is noted as a subscriber to the production of a Bartholomew’s map book of Scotland.

Spectacular view of the Ben Nevis summit from Gary Innes as he flies over in an open cockpit biplane.

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WEST PROPERTY BRANCHES OUT IN FORT WILLIAM West Property is celebrating 10 years of managing and letting properties across Lochaber with the creation of a new Fort William team to grow and enhance its lettings and estate agency operations in the area.

In addition to managing in excess of 200 letting properties, many of which are in Lochaber, the company also has an impressive track record in Oban, Argyll and Mull not only in letting, but also selling properties of all kinds.

To expand the business in Lochaber, the company has appointed well-known Inverlochy man Gavin MacKinnon as commercial director to further develop the West Property brand locally.

Gavin’s background is in hospitality and sales and marketing including senior roles within prominent local businesses and multinational operators. He is keen to spend locally where possible, working with local companies in preparing and maintaining properties. The company has also joined Lochaber Chamber of Commerce to network with other businesses throughout the area.

Based in Carn Dearg House on the North Road, Gavin is joined in the estate agency team by another Lochaber local, Claire MacLachlan, who will be meeting clients, conducting house viewings and seeking out the best properties to match their requirements and assist sellers to promote their properties in the best possible way.

Claire will be covering an area encompassing the whole of Lochaber, Fort William, Mallaig, Ardnamurchan, Glencoe and areas to the south, flanked by Lucy Hallett in Oban and Argyll, with Jodi MacLean serving the Isles of Mull and Iona.

West Property prides itself on providing a friendly, yet professional service with no hidden fees, offering a flexible, individually tailored, bespoke package to perfectly match the needs of the individual client.

This is equally the case on lettings: the most popular

‘fully-managed’ package with West Property includes experts taking care of every part of the process; from getting the property on the market to overseeing the duration of the tenancy and co-ordinating the return of the property at the end.

It also undertakes property inspections, runs monthly statements, handles repairs, and allows the owner to be involved as little or as much as they like!

Gavin MacKinnon said: ‘I am delighted to be working in the area again for an excellent local firm and I am looking forward to getting out and about to meet with our new and existing clients.

‘We are all thrilled that Claire has joined us, with her passion for property, an impressive sales management background and excellent local knowledge. It is a very positive move which will greatly benefit our clients.’

To ensure the best exposure all properties will be marketed through West’s own website and social media channels alongside national partners Rightmove and On The Market.

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Refreshing Summer Daiquiri cocktail Katie Daynes and Pixel Spirit

• ingredients • 60ml Pixel Spirits Artisan Range White Rum 15ml Freshly squeezed lime juice (the juice of one lime) 10ml Sugar Syrup

• method • Combine these inside a shaker and shake vigorously over ice for 30 seconds then strain into a chilled glass.

The Daiquiri was invented in 1898 by Jennings Cox, an American mining engineer based in Cuba.

Having run out of gin during an intime soiree (evening between friends), he turned to rum to make cocktails for his guests and thus a simple, subtle and slightly sour cocktail was born. He chose the name from the nearby village of Daiquiri.

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LOCHABER GOLDEN EAGLES TAKE TO SOUTHERN SKIES

Photograph courtesy of South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project

Iain Ferguson Golden eagles from Lochaber are heading south to help repopulate areas where they are either in serious decline or have vanished completely. Native to Scotland, historic persecution and changes to land use have put these reclusive and vulnerable birds at risk of disappearing from their remote homelands.

Depending on conditions such as availability of food and nesting areas, these birds generally lay only one egg but in Lochaber where the habitat is generally more favourable a clutch of two is, if not common, more prevalent than in other areas.

Thanks to Jahama Highland Estates, working in conjunction with The South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project, when ‘twins’ occur one of the young birds can be relocated to an area in which the population is in a much weaker position, helping to strengthen and over the years re-establish the species.

A licence from NatureScot allows the project to translocate up to 10 young eagles each year, across a five-year period.

The first four birds that the team successfully

moved to the area are now thriving in southern skies and across the Borders area with occasional forays into northern England. Two of these birds have come from locations across Jahama Highland Estate.

When twins are present and are between six and eight weeks old, they are carefully collected and translocated to southern Scotland. This can go ahead once they are fully feathered, capable of keeping themselves warm and have the strength to grip and tear their own food.

Each young eagle is given regular health checks and has a metal identification ring attached to its lower leg. The birds are carefully and sensitively transported to an aviary location in the Moffat Hills prior to being released into the wild six weeks later.

The fabulous birds are also fitted with a satellite tracker to allow further study and to ensure their health and well-being is being fully supported.

So the next time you are out and about in Lochaber and see the majestic, soaring golden eagles be proud that birds from this part of the world are playing a key role in improving the bio-diversity of other parts of Scotland and the UK to ensure the survival of this iconic species.

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FASSFERN HIGHLAND GINS AND ROSLIN WHISKY – THE TASTE AND TOAST OF LOCHABER Fassfern Highland gins may be one of Lochaber’s newest products but it is born from an area steeped in heritage linked to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the ‘45 rising. It is said that the prince himself picked a white rose from a bush as he passed through Fassfern, after landing at Glenfinnan, and this became the symbol of the Jacobite cause right through to the present day.

Local plants also feature prominently in one of the new gins, which has the flavoursome content of wild Lochaber Brambles, carefully picked and selected at their prime before being added into the gin-making process. This has proved to be very popular to the palates of gin lovers and plans are already in place to increase collection of the berries at the height of this year’s growing season.

Second of the small batch production is a dry Highland gin, featuring the smooth flavours of Juniper and citrus, equally palatable in bringing out the slightly more bitter subtlety of the liquid.

Conceived and created by Aaron Ross and his recently deceased father, Colin – a ‘whisky man’ for over half a century, highly regarded in the international industry and much loved locally – the business also offers a 15-year-old single malt Allt a’ Mhullin, marketed under the brand ‘Roslin’, the name of Colin’s house.

Laid down in barrels previously used for a number of other alcoholic drinks over a long period of time, it is instilled with a unique flavour, making it a highly desirable, much-soughtafter product by both individuals who enjoy a whisky and dealers.

A high quality product, with

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each label and box bearing a facsimile of Colin’s signature, the first bottle was hand labelled by Colin himself just before he passed away. This will remain in the family as an ongoing symbol of his everlasting presence in their lives and that of the business.

Aaron said: ‘This was a project dad and I were working on for some time; in developing the products, how they would be marketed, and even right down to the design of the packaging. We never expected that he would not be with us when we were ready to launch, but I am really happy he was able to see what we had achieved together and celebrate his role by hand labelling and signing the very first bottle.’

Other than the drinks, Fassfern also offers a range of glassware from which to enjoy its products and even, as a mark of the times, a specially-branded face mask.

Information about Fassfern gin and Roslin whisky can be found on www.fassferndistillery.com

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LITTLE BULL ON COW HILL Fort William’s Cow Hill and the adventures of its imaginary animal residents are the subjects in a recently published children’s book by a local author.

Rhona Douglas, who has looked out on the hill from her Inverlochy home for more than three decades, came up with the idea for Little Bull on Cow Hill after a wrist operation which left her temporarily dependant on using only one hand.

As she sat in her chair reading from her iPad she looked up to the hill and the idea came to her. She started typing using, as she said, ‘only one finger’ and so the book was born.

Despite being restricted to one-finger typing, the words flowed and Archie the Bull came to life, with friends Mo, Mairi and Hector the Haggis.

Aimed at nursery to early primary children, the characters feature names from people in Rhona’s life: Archie, being her grandfather and Mo, after her late sister Maureen.

As the preface says, Rhona has spent her whole life in the Highlands of Scotland with her family living nearby. She was born with spastic paraparesis, which affects her legs but it has never held her back, always being in employment since leaving school.

Over the years she has worked in admin, as a CCTV operator and presently as a retail assistant in Morrisons, now adding ‘author’ to her list of jobs.

Another impetus in writing the book was the

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pending birth of her grandchild Ruaridh and the idea of being able to read it to him from a young age; which she has since been able to do, complete with dedication to the youngster in its pages.

She said: ‘I always knew there was a book in me but until I started on this I just didn’t know what it was. I enjoyed writing it and my friends and family were supportive and helpful in printing out draft copies and reading through it.

‘I searched around for various publishers and was delighted when Austin Macauley came back to me saying it would publish it.

‘My view of Cow Hill every day was also an inspiration and I am hoping that many local children, especially in nursery and early education, will read it and relate to it as it involves an area and animals which they will be able to recognise as part of their own lives.’

Little Bull on Cow Hill priced at £9.99 is available from a number of local outlets and directly from the publisher, Austin Macauley.

for Highland ath-chuairtich airson na Gàidhealtachd

Garden Waste Collection Service 2020/21 permits expire on 31st August.

The new 2021/22 permit season begins on 1st September.

To receive your permit in time for the first 2021/22 collections order by 2nd August 2021.

WAYS TO PAY • Visit www.highland.gov.uk/gardenwaste • Call 01349 886660 8 www.highland.gov.uk/gardenwaste * recycle@highland.gov.uk LOCHABER LIFE

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In Loving Memory of James (Fitzie) Fitzsimons 1967 – 2021 (Roy Bridge) Suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday 24th May 2021, aged 53 years, James (Fitzie) Fitzsimons, Inverroy, Roy Bridge. A kind and generous gentleman, highly respected throughout Lochaber, a well-known and skilled panel beater from his premises in Fort William. A loving and devoted husband to Ruth, a wonderful and much-loved dad to Hamish, son to the late Morag and Charlie, a caring son-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and a loyal friend to many. Fitzie will be forever loved and missed by his loving family and friends as well as the communities of Lochaber. RIP. On behalf of his wife Ruth we are looking for photographs, stories and other personal memories you may have of Fitzie to be forwarded on to us so we in turn can pass on to the family to help collate together a memory book for their son Hamish. Your help and assistance will be greatly appreciated and any photos, stories and personal memories you may have can be sent to us via email info@mmfd.co.uk or alternatively posted to Manson & MacBeath Funeral Directors, Inverlochy, Fort William, PH33 6NB. In Loving Memory of Malcolm Morrison 1942 – 2021 (Mallaig) Peacefully in the care of Moss Park Care Home on Monday 24th May 2021, aged 79 years, Malcolm Morrison, Loch Nevis Crescent, Mallaig.

Remembered for working in the Marine Bar, Mallaig and as night watchman on the CalMac ferry. RIP.

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In Loving Memory of Alan Cumming 1932 – 2021 (Caol) Suddenly but peacefully at Moss Park Care Home on Wednesday 26th May, aged 88 years, Alan Cumming, Blar Mhor Road, Caol, Fort William. Fondly remembered for his time as the gardener at Inverlochy Castle, Torlundy, Alan also enjoyed bird watching and walking his dog. A loving husband to the late Ailsa, a much-loved brother, uncle, neighbour and friend to many. Greatly missed.

In Loving Memory of Hugh (Hughie) MacDonald 1945 – 2021 (Claggan) Suddenly and unexpectedly at home on Tuesday 18th May 2021 Hugh (Hughie) Joseph MacDonald, aged 76 years, Tomnafaidhir, Claggan, Fort William, retired Highland Council employee. A much-loved neighbour and friend, especially to Susan. RIP. In Loving Memory of Sandra Moffitt 1945 – 2021 (Claggan) Peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday 7th June 2021, Sandra Moffitt, aged 76 years, Carn Dearg Road, Claggan, Fort William. A much-loved mum to Diane and Tracy, a wonderful nana to Kelly, Jordan, Jake, Ben and the late Carrie, great nana to Shannon, Kyler and Geo, a caring neighbour and friend to many. Sandra will be greatly missed every day but fondly remembered for the love and kindness she gave throughout her life.

In Loving Memory of Mary Morrison 1945 – 2021 (Mallaig) Peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday 29th May 2021, aged 76 years, Mary Morrison, affectionally known within the community as ‘Mary The Taxi’, Loch Nevis Crescent, Mallaig, sadly only five very short days after the passing of her beloved brother Malcolm Morrison. A loving mum to Kenneth and much loved by all the extended family. Mary was a kind, most obliging lady who served the community of Mallaig for over 30 years in her taxi amongst many other community-related activities, especially her dedication and love for the church and the choir. RIP.

In Loving Memory of Ian Nicoll 1963 – 2021 (Corpach) Peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday 14th May 2021, Ian Nicoll, aged 57 years, Corpach, Fort William, Wayleave Officer with SSE (Lochaber Office) and former employee at the Scottish Hydro Electric Shop, Fort William High Street. A devoted husband to Karen, an adored dad to Millie, Sophie and Freya, a loving son to Sandra, a much-loved brother to Gillian and Jenny, brother-in-law to John, Ruth, Dawn and Jane, and a caring relative, colleague, neighbour and a good friend to many. Sadly missed.

In Loving Memory of Davie (Cally) MacCallum 1950 – 2021 (North Ballachulish) Unexpectedly but peacefully at home on Saturday 22nd May 2021, aged 71 years, Davie (Cally) MacCallum, North Ballachulish. A wellknown and respected joiner (retired) with Lochaber Housing Association in Fort William. A devoted husband to Carolyn (Caz), a much-loved dad to Paul, a wonderful grandad to Lyle, Logan and Lola and a caring uncle to Amanda and a loyal friend to many. Davie enjoyed fishing, music and dancing as well as good food and wine and a good dram. Sadly missed by all his family and friends.

In Loving Memory of Kathleen Beaton 1930 – 2021 (Caol/Camaghael/Claggan) Suddenly, but peacefully at home on Saturday 5th June 2021, Kathleen Beaton, aged 90 years, Polmona, Claggan, Fort William (formerly Lochy Caravan Park, Camaghael and Glenkingie Street, Caol). A loving wife to the late Hughie Beaton, much-loved mum to Alice, Pearl, Donna and the late Richard (Dick), a wonderful granny to Carl, Sasha, Sue, Josh, Nadine and Finn, great granny and great great granny, a caring mother-in-law, sister, cousin and friend to many. Forever loved and missed by her loving family.

In Loving Memory of John (Oskie) Cameron 1952 – 2021 (Claggan) Suddenly at home on Saturday 22nd May 2021, John (Oskie) Cameron, aged 68 years, Claggan, Fort William, well-known slater and rough caster in Lochaber. A much-loved dad to Jemma and Johnny, a wonderful grandad to Summer and Ritchie, son to the late Alexander Cameron (Sandy Penny) and Lizzie Johnston, a loving brother to Sandra, David and Cindy, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and a friend to many. Sadly missed. RIP.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS

10 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB Tel (24 Hour): 01397 701110 www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk

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What’s on in July AND AUGUST...

July 08/07/21 Thursday 7pm Digital marketing for growers and producers with Vanessa who works with UHI and Food Lochaber

20/07/21 Tuesday 7pm Dead hedging and food stories with Debbie and Chris from Rooted

10/08/21 Tuesday 7pm Polycultures and companions with Cat from Breacan-Beithe

27/07/21 Tuesday 7pm Starting a small scale food production enterprise with Allison from Chocolate Box

17/08/21 Tuesday 7pm Food stories with Debbie from Rooted 24/08/21 Tuesday 7pm Grain growing and Darach Beg Croft with Adam from Doughies

13/07/21 Tuesday 7pm Micro bakery bread production with Adam from Doughies

August 03/08/21 Tuesday 7pm No-dig growing Catherine from Breacan-Beithe

To book your place on any of these fantastic workshops, please visit: https://lochaberenviro.org.uk/food-lochaber-workshops-this-summer/ Then click on the Eventbrite link.

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Love the local life in Lochaber Lochaber Chamber offers tourism assistance at the tap of an app Frazer Coupland, Chief Executive Officer At Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, we’re passionate about supporting and promoting local business.

Buying local is becoming ever more popular and there’s a great range of shops and food and drink producers to tempt you in Lochaber. Choosing to shop local has never been easier and is a great way to support our local economy and community.

With this in mind, Lochaber Chamber of Commerce was recently joined by three professional chefs for our first West Coast Wild Food Festival, kindly hosted by the Old Pines, Spean Bridge, to celebrate the exceptional range of produce available locally.

We were delighted to showcase produce from a number of members and suppliers from across Lochaber at the event. From fresh fruit and vegetables, local meat and seafood, charcuterie and smoked fish to artisan baking, preserves, spirits and beers; it was fantastic to see the quality and range on offer right here on our doorstep.

Working on simple camping stoves, our trio of

Luke Hastings of the Old Pines slaving over a hot camping stove at the West Coast Wild Food event.

chefs showed us just what you can achieve with fresh local ingredients and a generous helping of ‘outdoor-cooking’ imagination!

We’d like to say a big thank you to our intrepid chefs - Luke Hastings of the Old Pines, Stewart MacLachlan from Lochaber Larder and Robert Coull for Jahama Estate, who created some very tasty and good-looking dishes to showcase Lochaber’s rich larder.

Follow the Outdoor Capital of the UK on social media and check out www.outdoorcapital.co.uk for inspiration to help you shop local, cook local and enjoy local!

Deliciously fresh Highland Surf’n’ Turf using locally sourced ingredients.

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The Great Outdoors?

Arts of Lochaber Ilona Munro Lochaber is the Outdoor Capital of the UK. We are used to donning our wellies and fleeces for biking and hillwalking – heck, we even put them on for sunbathing, because well, you know, it’s Scotland. There is a belief that everyone lives here for the Great Outdoors, but from one ‘I like indoors’ human to another: some of us only go outside so we don’t kill our families. Or to get chocolate at the shops. Can a love of arts get us out our central-heated comfort zone?

As the country moves from online to outdoors, wonderful fresh air culture is emerging, from amphitheatres to shipping container stages. In Lochaber, we don’t really have a history of outdoor performance other than that nice busker in the underpass…and he is wise enough to take shelter from the sideyways Fort Bill rain.

I’ve performed in snow, rain, scorching heat (once) and belting winds. Some years ago, Lochaber Youth Theatre and I did a flash mob in howling rain to entertain a soaked audience on the Christmas High Street. The best bit of all? It was broadcast on the radio.

Think about it…

Working Belladrum and the Edinburgh Fringe creates an understanding of the differences between indoor and outdoor performance.

Talking to companies from the south of England, whose flowers have all bloomed and died before Lochaber’s even get a chance to sprout, makes you very aware of the UK’s weather differences.

Moreover, you cannot simply plop an indoor event outdoors. It just doesn’t work. And then there are the midges. ‘Why bother?’ is often my instinct. When you make families laugh amidst the wild elements or you’re chilling to an orchestra in a beautifully lit ruin, then you know

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it’s worth the bother. Besides, who doesn’t love embarrassing their children at a festival? ‘Mum, stop dancing!’

I have many favourite cultural memories from the cosy indoors, but they are blown out the water by the night we made a disco in a campsite, sang and put lasers over the loch.

You are not imprisoned by rain – you are a magical, waterproof being that can create the crowd, the applause and the camaraderie.

Besides, the midges don’t like lashing rain.

For cultural events, indoors and out, why not check the Dramafish page on Facebook?

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Iain Ferguson Motorbike trials made a welcome return with the staging of the Ally Beag competition in Glen Nevis at the end of May. Organised by the Lochaber and District Motorcycle Club

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in conjunction with landowners Jahama Highland Estates and Ewan Cameron the event attracted 100 riders, both local and from across Scotland.

Normally an annual event it is held in memory of exceptionally talented Fort William rider and mechanic Alexander John Cameron, known affectionately as Ally Beag (Wee Ally, a name given to him when he worked in Fort William’s Parade Garage to distinguish him from another mechanic of the same name). He stormed on to the Scottish Six Days Trial in 1958, aged 18 years old.

Starting on an old bike which was all he could afford at the time, such was his success that he quickly moved on to new bikes, using his mechanical knowledge to adapt and hone their performance to maximum effect.

He went on to win many competitions in a number of classes at events all over the country as well as many successes in his ‘home’ event, The Scottish Six Days Trial.

His talent was well recognised and highly regarded, so much so that he moved to England, working for manufacturers and ‘works’ bike teams as both mechanic and rider – quite an achievement.

In 1971 he decided to return home to Fort William taking a job at the British Aluminium smelter, where, despite many offers of positions with various teams and bikes companies, he stayed. Despite being diagnosed with Hodgkins Disease, he rode until the late ’70s, then took the role of observer at numerous trials.

Ally died in 1998 and the Duncansburgh Church was overflowing for his funeral as so many wanted to pay their final respects.

His name and achievements have not been forgotten through the trials and it seems appropriate that in these days of Covid restrictions and cancellations of sporting events, that his was possibly the only trial allowed and also that it should take place on land owned by ‘the smelter’ where he worked.

In dry and sunny weather riders first crossed the River Nevis staying with lines set to ensure that salmon spawning areas were not disturbed by the activity. In line with Covid regulations, no spectators were allowed, so, as unusual as the great weather, the route of each section was given over only to official observers and riders.

Several stages had been laid out, each with their own level of difficulty to challenge riders as they twisted their way over and around boulders of various sizes trying to keep the number of dabs to an absolute minimum.

Observers kept a close eye on each and every attempt, carefully logging every move on the steep, rocky, but largely dry burns.

Juniors too had their own stages on lower levels; no less challenging for them, with some as little as five years old showing great mastery of the sport, with many definitely up-andcoming champions of the future.

Everything about the event was carefully planned, not only from a Covid but from an environmental point of view to cause minimum disruption in the landscape and habitat of domestic and wild populations.

Jonathan Hart, liaison manager for Jahama Highland Estates, said: ‘After losing the Scottish Six Days Trial, the pre-65, the Grace Dignan trial and a host of other motorcycle trials events over the last two years we have been working closely behind the scenes with both Lochaber and Kinlochleven motorcycle clubs on how we can ensure the survival of these iconic events.

‘It is fitting then that the first major trial since Covid restrictions were introduced is the Ally Beag Trial based in Glen Nevis, given that Ally himself was an employee of the BA and an enthusiastic and popular local rider.

‘It is also important for Jahama Highland Estates to recognise the fact that local club riders have respected the lockdown regulations and have not been out on organised trials for over 18 months. So we are particularly pleased that we can thank them for their patience and that we can work with them and our other partners to secure a future for sustainable motorcycle events in Fort William and Kinlochleven.’

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Members John Ferguson & Caroline Ferguson

• First time Buyer • Buy to Let • Home mover • re-mortgages • CapitaL raising • CommerCiaL (for commercial mortgages we act as introducers)

Call to speak with a Professional Mortgage Adviser for a free initial consultation: 01397 705848

F 01397 703537 m 07899670260 e info@johnferguson-mortgages.co.uk m Morvern, Glen Nevis Fort William PH33 6PF

johnferguson-mortgages.co.uk as a mortgage is secured against your home, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up the mortgage repayments

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Tenants and Residents Making A Difference With Jo Cowan Lochaber Life recently featured the fantastic work being done by Upper Achintore Regeneration Group (UARG). The group meets on the third Monday of each month. All residents are welcome and an invitation/link can be obtained from UARG secretary Sarah at uarg19@aol.com A group looking for new members: The Plantation Community Association (PCA) needs a new committee and members to get its group and community spirit going again. The Plantation has a lovely park for the children with lottery funding and a lot of work from the PCA. Having a residents’ group helps to achieve results in your area, improves services, makes new friends, holds organised events, and generally gets the community involved.

If you would be interested in

getting involved then please get in touch with Karin McKay, tenant participation officer, on 07785 477696 or email karin.mckay@ highland.gov.uk A new group in the making: Kinlochleven Environmental Regeneration Group is a new residents’ group that is forming in Kinlochleven. Its aims are to get permission to regenerate unused areas of council-owned land in the village to provide food-growing areas and relaxation spaces for the benefit of the community. It also aims to upgrade the village play areas for children and to generally improve the area. It would like to encourage all Kinlochleven residents to become involved and support the group. For more information contact Karin McKay who will put you in touch with a committee member, or you can send a message through the group’s Facebook page.

Claggan Residents Association is a long-standing residents’ group. Its aims are to safeguard and promote the interests of residents in the Claggan area on matters concerning housing and the environment, and to help improve living conditions, community facilities and services. The group has held many successful

events in the past and is hoping, when it is safe to do so, to have more. They have been working with the Highland Council to get the Quadrangles upgraded and services improved.

Plans have been made available at numerous meetings, tenants consulted, and every idea or suggestion taken into account.

The project is expected to go ahead once approval and financial budgets have been agreed through local members.

The group has planted flowers across from the Spar shop in the shape of a rainbow and is hoping to get more volunteers involved. The group is always looking for new members : email clagganra17@gmail.com for more information.

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M&L

LANDSCAPING

We are specialists in Landscaping and Driveways

All types of landscaping Fencing / Gardening /Trees etc Patios / Concrete / Slabbing Blocking Paving Pressure Washing on all outside building works No job too big or too small | 7 day cooling off Period

Tel 01397 712120 & 07553 111093 for a free Quotation

(FORT WILLIAM) Ltd. YOUR ONE STOP LOCAL BUSINESS FOR ALL HIRE EQUIPMENT • • • • • • • • •

PLANT & TOOL HIRE DIY / GARDEN TOOLS & EQUIPMENT DIGGERS / DUMPERS ROLLERS / MIXERS POWERTOOLS PRESSURE WASHERS CARPET CLEANERS ALLOY TOWER SCAFFOLDING & LADDERS TRAILERS

• SMALL PLANT SERVICE & REPAIRS • DELIVERY SERVICE • SPECIAL WEEKEND RATES AVAILABLE

CONTACT US Website: www.hirecentreltd.com Email: info@hirecentreltd.com TEL: 01397 700077 FAX: 01397 701664 Unit 32, Ben Nevis Ind Estate, Fort William PH33 6PR Open Mon – Fri 0730 - 1700

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Chlaram Computer Services For all your Laptop/PC repairs and upgrades, wireless/internet setups and custom builds Distance no object - covering all areas from Oban to Mallaig to Fort Augustus.

Graeme Fallows Banavie 01397 773 197

Graeme@gmx.us

A furniture business built on quality and care Highland BlindCraft makes high-quality beds, but that’s not all it does. It’s all about making people feel involved, valued and cared for.

Highland BlindCraft’s roots lie in teaching the blind with the belief that if someone has the willingness to work, then paid employment should be an option for all people including those who suffer from a disability. The deprivation of sight has been shown to be no disqualification for a life of ordinary usefulness nor has it stood in the way of pre-eminent success in almost every department of human labour. When the factory was established, its employees were given the same rights and conditions as able-bodied people in

the workplace and would not be further disadvantaged – and the factory is still run on the same principle today. As a charity and a business, the employees’ wellbeing is at the very heart of the charity’s philosophy and practice. The workforce could almost be described as a family – a close family looking out for one another and supporting each other in their individual development and quality of life expectations. Highland BlindCraft is committed to lifelong learning and improving the quality of life for all the people it is responsible for.

It’s not all about making amazing beds; it’s so much more.

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You may know I like to cook – often it’s soup and sandwiches. But recently I had the privilege of enjoying this ‘combo’ in a local cafe. What a treat to eat someone else’s cooking again!

I first saw the abbreviation ‘combo’ in 1982 on an American menu.

Our local congregation had paid for a sabbatical visit there on my husband’s 25th anniversary. It was a sentimental journey for both of us. I got to be ‘a culture vulture’ tourist in museums while he toured various theological libraries to study. We became

aware that the lingo had changed in the 25 years since our last visit.

There seemed to be a shortcut for every multisyllable word. Some of these abbreviations have drifted ‘across the

pond’.

Our car dashboard has one button labelled A/C, but so far I’ve not heard anyone in Lochaber call air conditioning airco. Maybe that’s because we rarely need it, even in July!

Living languages change as the culture does. Only ‘dead’ Latin stays the same.

Paul wrote to people in Rome two thousand years ago. They knew the Jewish worship culture of the time included killing and burning animals. To ‘sacrifice’ some food meant you said sorry to God for doing wrong.

So that word meant giving up, or depriving yourself of something. He explained Jesus freely gave (not gave up) his life as a once-for-all-time offering.

In return, as a last century English translation puts it, God wants our lives as a ‘living sacrifice’.

A recent American English version runs: ‘God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life - your sleeping, eating, goingto-work, and walking around life - and place it before God as an offering.’ [The Message].

We think of putting money in a plate in churches as an offering.

(Something they have missed during Covid!) Maybe this is a shortcut. Surely we can please God daily, even when sleeping, cooking or ‘eating out to help out’.

I remain thankful to Him for all!

Young footballers enjoy a break from training and playing in the sun. Photograph: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image

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

• New Memorials • Additional Inscriptions • Cleaning & Renovations • Work carried out in all areas

Tel / Fax: 01369 702162 Email: fraserdownie.43@gmail.com

John S Weller

Est. 1982

Property Maintenance & Repairs No Job Too Small Fully Insured 24 Hour Service General Building Repairs Painting & Decorating Kitchens Bathrooms

Tel: 01397 708508

New builds or conversions Alterations & extensions Preparation of feu plans Preparation of “as existing drawings” Building Warrant and planning applications M 07429 489537 E admin@jcarchitecture.co.uk W jcarchitecture.co.uk

Michael J Kennedy

Painters & Decorators For High Quality Workmanship

Ames Taping, Coving, Airless Spray, New Builds

Commercial, Industrial & Domestic

53 Castle Dr, Lochyside, Fort William

Mob 0780 335 7221

Tel 01397 703893 Established 1988

Competitive Rates Carpentry Plumbing Glazing Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling Doors & Windows Free Estimates

Mob: 07710 940917

F OR T W ILLI A M Operating in Highlands area including Small Isles

All aspects of plumbing central heating renewables Free estimates Highly recommended snipef registered

Follow on Facebook

01397 713835 07428 702128

Email: stewart.plumbing@yahoo.co.uk Alba, Bohenie road, Roy bridge PH31 4AN

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Electric Bikes, Mountain Bikes, Servicing & Repairs, Wetsuits for Swimming, Gloves, Boots, Hoods, and Dryrobes Call in or contact us via messenger on Facebook or email to info@offbeatbikes.co.uk Call 01397 704008 Off Beat Bikes, 117 High Street, Fort William PH33 6DG Shop open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm

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A metal memorial cross beside a river recently featured in TV treasure hunters. But where?

Last month:- Art or a fallen tree, as a strange creature emerges from the woods near the Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall in Kinlochleven.

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T: 01397 712373 M: 07884 185 279

scottmandrews@tiscali.co.uk

Unit 6, Ben Nevis Auction Mart, Suite 3, Caol Community Centre, Caol, Torlundy, Fort William, Fort William, PH33PH33 7DS 6SW 01397Fax: 700800 Tel: 01397Tel: 701039 01397 700800 E-mail: Email:lindac@bossltd.demon.co.uk linda@bosslochaber.co.uk Established in 1992 • Book-keeping, Computer Accounting, VAT Returns • Computer Payroll aServices � Weekly, or Monthly We provide professional andFortnightly confidential • Typing, CV’s, Laminating, Binding, Photocopying, Faxing Bookkeeping, Payroll, VAT Returns and Administration service to• Staff all businesses.

• Conference and Event Organising Agency Conference andtoo Event Organising No business large or small!

Contact us now – No business too large or too small We understand your business needs and offer a professional, confidential service.

K

Trees

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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Nevis Hillwalking Club

The Nevis Hillwalking Club is a well-established hill walking club based in Lochaber in the Highlands; one of the best hill walking areas on the planet.

In normal times we are out walking together every weekend. Our programme contains a mixture of classic hill walks, such as the Ring of Steall or the Five Sisters of Kintail, and less well-known but equally interesting and adventurous outings.

Throughout the year the club organises occasional week and weekend meets to more distant areas such as Skye, Torridon or the Cairngorms using selfcatering accommodation or wild camping.

At long last, with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, Nevis Hillwalking Club is able to resume its walks programme.

The past 12 months have been difficult but this period of enforced inactivity has for

many people awakened a renewed appreciation for the landscape in which we live and a strong urge to renew old acquaintances and forge new friendships.

The physical and emotional well-being benefits of hill walking are well documented and we look forward to reconnecting with our existing

members and welcoming new members to the club.

If you are a keen walker, appreciate the camaraderie of shared adventure, want to know more about our club, and are interested in becoming a member, please contact us at enquiries@nevishillwalking. club.

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ballachulishhotel.co.uk/eat

R E S TA U R A N T | B A R

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Enjoy 10% off your food bill, tear this off and take it with you to the restaurant.