Lochaber Life #359 September 2023

SPORTS, ARTS AND ELECTIONS

Traditionally this time in the media is known as ‘the silly season’ as there’s not much happening because of the summer holidays. However, as the exception proves the rule, plenty has been going on or is about to happen in Lochaber. Just looking through the following pages of this issue, there is news of biking, bowling and the Ben Race, community council elections and a Community Caring meeting. There’s also a range of traditional music, dance and celebration of Gàidhealtachd with a children’s feis and a successful Festival Fringe, launched and carried out in Kinlochleven. Members of Lochaber Photographic Society have also been out and about capturing beautiful images for us. What a ‘busy’ season! Time for a holiday? Ùine airson saor-làithean? Iain

FRONT PAGE PHOTOGRAPH:

William Lansborough struck out all-comers in the Fort William Ten Pin Bowling League.

Fèis Lochabair

Fèis Lochabair aims to promote Gaelic culture, language and music in Fort William and Lochaber and such has been its success, this year marks its 30th anniversary.

The first week in August saw nearly 120 young people playing music, dancing, singing and playing shinty, all while using and learning Gaelic with a wide range of sessions from Pàrant is Pàiste for under two year olds, na Fèisean Beaga for those in nursery or attending primary one to primary three, all the way to the main Fèis which offers a range of activities for those age 8 to 18 years.

As always, it culminated in a fantastic cèilidh and concert with talented youngsters wowing the audience. Many of the youngsters will continue learning their instruments and step-dancing at the follow on classes we offer throughout the term.

The Ceilidh Trail was also running throughout the summer offering musicians aged 16 to 25 years a paid summer job and professional development

opportunities. This year’s Ceilidh Trail has seen the musicians playing across Lochaber from Muck, Eigg, Canna and Knoydart to busy pubs on Fort William High Street. This year, the Ceilidh Trail has also taken to the stage in Edinburgh as part of the Edinburgh Fringe.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Fèis Lochabair is thrilled that the Cèol nam Fèis Concert is coming to Fort William on September 9 to mark the Fèis movement by featuring young people from Fèisean across Scotland, alongside Lochaber musicians. For more information and to book tickets go to www. blas.scot/events.

An invite is also extended to anyone who has been a participant, parent, committee member, tutor or audience member of any of our events throughout the last 30 years to “save the date” and come along to a ceilidh with a buffet in Caol Community Centre on November 11.

Like every other organisation, increased operating costs such

as the cost of hiring premises to hold annual/one-off events and weekly classes could potentially impact our ability to run such a range of events in future.

We are really keen to encourage anyone in the area to get involved in the Fèis, whether that is supporting the committee or participating in events to learn more about the Gaelic language and culture. If you are interested in finding out more about our work or getting involved, please follow us on Facebook (Fèis Lochabair) or email feislochabair@ feisean.scot.

Rachel Lincoln.

THANKS FOR MS SUPPORT

During the 30-odd years Lochaber was an independent branch, the ongoing financial support from the community was much appreciated. Lochaber has now joined the Inverness, Nairn and Lochaber Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society.

Lochaber runner Finlay Wild nears the summit in last year’s Ben Race. He hopes to record his 12th consecutive win this September. Photograph: Philip Hughes.

Morag Fraser

Right: The 25th anniversary celebration of the MS Society Lochaber branch in October 2014.

VENISON CARPACCIO, SALT BAKED BEETROOT GOATS CHEESE, BLACKBERRIES AND TOASTED WALNUTS

Scott Sutherland, The Caddy Shack

For the brine:

1 bottle red wine

2 tbspn mustard seeds

2 tbspn salt

1tbspn pink peppercorns

1 orange

1 bulb garlic

Few sprigs of thyme

5 cloves

100g soft brown sugar

For the carpaccio:

1 venison loin

Black pepper

For the salt baked beetroot:

200g coarse salt

200g table salt

400g plain flour

2 egg whites

Handful chopped thyme

2 medium size golden beetroot

2 medium size beetroot

To garnish:

50g walnuts

1 packet blackberries

200g goats cheese

Some leaves - I used micro parsley but you can use peashoots, watercress, anything really.

Begin by combining all the ingredients for the brine, bring to the boil for a minute, then set aside to cool. Trim the venison loin of any fat or sinew still attached with a small knife. Once prepared, put into a container and pour over the brine so it completely covers the meat. Cover the container and put in the fridge, preferably overnight to infuse the flavour.

Combine the flour, thyme and two kinds of salt in a food processor, add in egg whites and gradually add the water until it starts to come together. Take it out of the food processor and knead into a dough, wrap in cling film and set aside in the fridge for 20 minutes.

Take the venison loin out of the marinade mixture and pat dry, removing any bits stuck to the outside. Heat a frying pan until it is very hot with a little bit of oil. Sear the venison on all sides quickly, with the centre remaining rare. Lightly coat the outside with black pepper and roll tightly in cling film then place in the freezer for about an hour to firm up.

Take the salt dough out of the fridge and divide into four. Roll each piece out until half a centimetre thick, trim, wash and dry the beetroots then wrap them up in your salt dough. It may break apart a bit but don’t worry, just pick it up and pat it on where there are any gaps. Once they are covered, put them in the oven at 200c for around 1.5 hours. Once cooled, break open the crust and cut the beetroot into smallish cubes.

Plate everything up, thinly slice your carpaccio, allow around seven slices to a plate, scatter around the cubed beetroot, toasted walnuts goats cheese and blackberries then garnish with leaves and serve.

GREAT FOOD FOR ALL AT THE CADDY SHACK.

While Fort William Golf Club is noted for having some of the most spectacular scenery around its greens, its newly refurbished clubhouse can also boast one of the best eating places in the area. Aptly named ‘The Caddy Shack’, diners do not have to be members to enjoy the delights on the menu.

Run by chef Scott Sutherland and his partner Lianne, it is entirely independent of the golf club, serving up the best local

produce, beautifully cooked and served up in bright and pleasant surroundings both indoors or on the recently installed outdoor decking supplied by the local BSW sawmill.

Everything from bacon rolls and light snacks to filling lunches and quality evening meals are on the extensive menu in addition to popular traditional mouthwatering Sunday roasts. The Caddy Shack team also cater for different food preferences and, of course, allergies to meet

the needs of customers, including Lianne’s gluten free home baking.

A large parking area is only a few steps away from the entrance and as the colder weather draws in, a welcoming log fire is another great attraction.

For a cup of coffee or drink from the bar, bacon roll, snack or full meal, The Caddy Shack offers a great choice, easy to get to and in fantastic surroundings. Everyone welcome.

P HYSIOTHERAPY

M ASSAGE , R EFLEXOLOGY

Y OGA FOR H EALTHY B ACKS

O STEOPATHY

C OUNSELLING ( INCL C OUPLES )

CBT

F OOD I NTOLERANCE T ESTING

H ERBAL M EDICINE

C ALL : 01397 702257

P ODIATRY

E: INFO @ LOCHABERCLINIC . CO . UK

W: WWW . LOCHABERCLINIC . CO . UK

LOCHABER: A national park in all but name?

Lochaber National Park Working Group

As we all know, at this time of year Lochaber is overwhelmed with visitors. Traffic grinds to a halt on the clogged roads, the glens, lochs and coastal beaches are crowded with campervans and tents, bins overflow, rubbish is scattered far and wide for locals and seasonal rangers to clear up and businesses struggle to recruit and maintain staff due to the housing shortage as ever more homes are turned into short-term let properties.

Is there a way to help Lochaber deal with these problems? – we think so. The Scottish Government has committed to creating at least one new national park by 2026 and is asking communities across Scotland to consider whether their area could be designated as the country’s next national park. Following a public consultation last year, the process has now started to identify the location for Scotland’s third national park.

Scotland currently has two national parks: The Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs national parks, which play an important role

in tackling the biodiversity and climate crises, while supporting communities, businesses and visitors. The parks are managed by park authorities and are supported by government and grant funding, enabling the development of long-term projects to tackle problems including those mentioned above, support communities and restore the environment.

Lochaber has been considered as a potential location for a national park for more than 70 years - and with good reason.

We have the highest mountain in the UK, spectacular mountain and coastal scenery, Atlantic rainforest and ancient Caledonian pine forest, complex geology and a long cultural history. More than 1,600 square kilometres of Lochaber already lies within National Scenic Areas. Millions of people visit Lochaber every year, so we also experience all the visitor pressures of a national park, but we do not have the resources available to a

national park to manage them. A local national park working group has been established to develop a bid for Lochaber.

The first phase of the process involves local consultation and preparation of a bid proposing and justifying Lochaber as a candidate area. At this stage, a park boundary does not need to be identified. If short-listed, the second phase will involve widespread community consultation to determine park priorities, boundaries and management structure.

A national park in Lochaber will play a vital role in securing a more sustainable future for the area, helping to maximise the benefits that can be provided for local people, nature and climate.

You can find out more about the Lochaber national park bid, including information about consultation events and a survey link, at https:// nationalparkforlochaber. blogspot.com

1930 – 2023

(Kinlochleven)

Peacefully, with her family by her side in the Telford Centre, Fort Augustus, on Tuesday 1st August 2023, May Rosie, aged 93 years, Kinlochleven. A devoted wife to the late Johnnie, a loving mum to Ann, Joan and John, a wonderful granny and great granny (Granny Kinloch), a caring sister to Pat and the late Jenny, and a friend to so many. Forever loved and missed.

1966 – 2023

(Fort William)

Sadly, but peacefully at home, after a short illness, on Thursday 6th July 2023, Louie John Jordan, aged 56 years, Lochaber Road, Upper Achintore, Fort William, labourer with TSL. A loving dad to Ben, a treasured son to Jim and the late Nan, a loving brother to Jim and Stewart and brother-inlaw to Pauline, a much loved uncle to Liam, Ellie and Kieran, a dear relative and a good friend to many. RIP.

1933 – 2023

(Inverlochy)

Peacefully, with her loving family by her side, on Saturday 29th July 2023, Cathie McPhee, aged 90 years, Inverlochy, Fort William. A devoted wife to the late Alistair, a loving mum, a wonderful gran and great gran, a much loved sister and a friend to so many. Sadly missed.

1975 – 2023

(Ballachulish)

Peacefully, in the loving care of Abbeyfield Care Home, Ballachulish, on Friday 7th July 2023, Katy Margaret Mackin, aged 48 years, Park Road, Ballachulish. A loving wife to John, a treasured mum to Kerr and Janey, a caring sister to Allan, a much loved sister-in-law, relative and a good friend to many. So greatly loved and missed.

10 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB

Tel (24 Hour): 01397 701110

www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk

ROSIE – MAY

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS

MACKIN – KATY

MCPHEE – CATHIE

JORDAN – LOUIE

1933 – 2023

(Fort William)

Peacefully in her sleep, in the care of Moss Park Care Home, Fort William, on Tuesday 11th July 2023, Mary Lorimer Hogg, aged 90 years. A loving mum to George, Margaret, Grace, Isabel, Peter and David, a much loved motherin-law, granny, great granny, aunt and friend. So greatly missed.

LAWRIE – GEORGE

1935 – 2023

(Mallaig)

Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Saturday 8th July 2023, George Lawrie BEM (British Empire Medal), aged 88 years, Cameron Avenue, Mallaig. Beloved husband of the late Jessie Alice, a loving father to June and Jeff and father-inlaw to Alan and Shona, a wonderful grandfather to Jeff, Ian, Cameron, Aimee-Marie, Alan and Laura, a much loved relative, neighbour and a good friend to many. Sadly missed.

MACDONALD –ELIZABETH

1936 – 2023

(Roy Bridge)

Sadly, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Tuesday 18th July 2023, Elizabeth Mary MacDonald (Liz), aged 86 years, Mulroy Terrace, Roy Bridge. A loving wife to the late Donald, a much loved mum to Helen, John, Kirsteen and Catherine and mother-in-law to Midgie, Sam and Ali, a wonderful granny to Seonaidh, Freya, Donald and Cara, a caring sister, aunt and a good friend to many. RIP.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

1950 – 2023

(Fort William)

Peacefully, in the loving care of Moss Park Care Home, Fort William, on Thursday 6th July 2023, Alexander Charles MacBeth, known to all as Sandy, aged 73 years, formerly of Linnhe Road, Middle Street, Fort William, former Bricklayers’ Labourer for over 50 years locally in Lochaber. A much loved relative and a good friend to many. Fondly remembered.

KENNEDY – CATHERINE

1948 – 2023

(Fort William)

Sadly, but peacefully with her loving family by her side, on Sunday 23rd July 2023, Catherine Kennedy known to all as Cathie, aged 74 years, Camanachd Crescent, An Aird, Fort William. A devoted wife to Billy, a loving mum to Donald and Eileen, a wonderful nana to Jack, Josh and Gracie, a caring sister to Ian, a much loved auntie and a good friend to many. Forever loved and missed.

1930 – 2023

(Inverlochy)

Sadly, but peacefully with his loving family by his side, on Tuesday 11th July 2023, Robert Lucas, known to all as Bob, aged 93 years, Wades Road, Inverlochy, Fort William. Beloved husband to the late Kathleen, a treasured dad to Robert, Pauline and the late Mary Margaret and father-in-law to Barbara and Alistair, a wonderful granda to Rachel, Alistair, Kerri, Robert and Stuart and a proud great granda to Reece, Lola, Orla, Nieve, Ronnie and Joey, a much loved uncle, great uncle and a caring neighbour and good friend to many. RIP.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

MACBETH – SANDY

HOGG – MARY

LUCAS – ROBERT

COMMUNITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS

Iain Ferguson

Community councils (CCs) have an important role to play in giving local residents a voice on issues of concern to their area. These views will then be raised with Highland councillors, MSPs and MPs to make them aware and help address concerns.

Depending on the population of the area to be represented, the CC can vary in size from seven to 13 members, aged 16 or over and on the electoral register. If more people than the number of seats available decide to stand, an election is held to appoint members for a four-year term. There are 21 community councils in Lochaber and all members are unpaid volunteers.

This October, all current community councillors must stand down and are eligible for re-election, but if not enough candidates come forward the individual council will cease to exist.

Most CCs meet monthly, with some meetings online. Recently, several councils came together to form the Linnhe Community Alliance giving a stronger community voice and influence decision-making on topics including the Corran Ferry and the FW2040 project.

Ally Entwistle, chairwoman of Glenfinnan CC, said: “CCs can gain strength by working together. We act with others

on ‘The Road to the Isles’ when necessary and being part of the seven-strong Linnhe Community Alliance keeps us connected with the Fort William area.”

Long-serving secretary of the largest body, Fort William, Inverlochy and Torlundy CC, Patricia Jordan, said: “I have worked alongside most CCs in Lochaber and have seen big changes over the years, good and bad, but these have benefitted from community involvement. Being able to sit at the table, discuss issues you know are important, speaking for your community is a great privilege.”

Chairman Mark Linfield said: “Much is happening in our area - Fort William 2040, town centre regeneration, new hospital and new housing and the CC’s input is always valuable. It

would be terrific to have more residents becoming community councillors in the forthcoming election so we have a new, stronger voice.”

John Fotheringham, of Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge and Achnacarry CC said: “We don’t join a CC to be popular with the powers that be. We speak for the people and it is essential to stand up to the big public bodies.”

The election notice will be published in early September, with nominations closing on October 3. If there are more nominees than the maximum, there will be an election but if not enough people come forward, that community council ceases to exist.

For more information, please search “community council elections” in the search box on the Highland Council website.

Culachy Wind Farm – preparing our planning application

We are moving closer towards the submission of our plans for Culachy Wind Farm.

We appreciate this has been slightly delayed. However, we anticipate an application will be submitted soon.

We will let the community know when we have submitted the plans and information will also be available at www.culachywind.co.uk.

As a reminder, our proposals will:

• Include eight wind turbines at 200m to tip

• Deliver 57MW of electricity

• Provide £280,000 of

community benefit annually

Our plans have changed in response to local feedback and we are pleased with the response we have received so far.

Please get in touch if you have any questions. We look forward to working closely with the community and local stakeholders as our plans progress.

Iain Ferguson

While Edinburgh has its Festival and associated Fringe, three people from Kinlochleven set up their own arts event in the village with entertainment for all ages and interests over a week in July.

Drama worker, theatre maker and writer Ilona Munro, local teacher of drama and technical theatre Graeme Martin and MC and sound technician with a background in radio David Ogg, each passionate about arts in Lochaber, put together the programme, which included the debut performance of the play ‘Lament’.

Based on a previous production by Ilona “Massacre of Glencoe’ in the 2007 Highland Year of Culture, which had a 120-strong cast, “Lament” shows life from the viewpoint of a MacDonald woman and

Fantastic Kinloch Fringe

her family. In turn, surprisingly humorous and deeply tragic Lament has musician Chaz Stewart’s haunting sound woven through its tale.

In what must have been an exhausting time, “Lament” ran for five nights and two matinees, with the Wednesday matinee being a ‘relaxed performance’ to suit neurodivergent audiences and those with hidden disabilities.

As with its bigger ‘cousin’, the Kinloch Fringe featured a vast and varied range of performances, such as comedian Kerrie Noor, The Tartan Juggler, opera singer Charlotte Sutton as well as workshops, including an ‘Art Walk’ with Ewen’s Room, ‘Try Drama’ with Lochaber Youth Theatre as well as a tots special ‘Let’s Make Music’ with

Clare Reynolds from Pulse Music Therapy. There was also a Creative Café and Festival Garden plus events in the library.

Ilona said: “We were all very disappointed that in 2022 there was no professional theatre visiting Lochaber, but as we have always been heartened by the amazing community music and drama in the area

we decided something like this was needed and set about organising it”.

The whole event proved hugely popular and amazingly was done without funding from major bodies, relying on local donations and sponsorship. Perhaps it will also grow to become a regular fixture on the Lochaber calendar. Contact Ilona on info@ brightproductions.co.uk

Top prizes for Totenkopfs

Iain Ferguson

Many people will never have heard of Totenkops as a breed of dog which are actually a type of Cocker Spaniel. One thing that can be recognised is that owners John Carmichael and Adrian Bulmar of Inverlochy Villas certainly know a fair bit about them with three award winning dogs and boxes of rosettes to prove it.

At the recent Highland Canine Association Dog Show, Oran, Isla and Maya came home with five prizes, including firsts for Oran in the Open Gun Dog category and Maya in the Minor Puppy category. More recently, at last month’s Black Isle Show Maya took Best Puppy in class and Best Puppy in show, while Oran was first Gundog and second in the Open.

John and Adrian did not set off to show their dogs, intending them only to be pets, but such was their lineage, coming from well known and renowned breeders Colin and Val Flowers who can count royalty and world class celebrities amongst their clientele, they tentatively but successfully entered a local show around 18 months ago and have carried on winning from there.

“We thought, these are from a good home, we will have a bash,” said John. “The first time we won something we said, we are rubbish at this, it’s not usit must be the dogs”. However, one thing led to another,

and after attending local ring stewarding classes they are now part of a group of dog enthusiasts.

Despite this, the dogs are still much loved and loving pets who live in the house with them. They have official ‘show’ names. Oran, who turns four in October, is Totenkopf Oran at Inverlochy. Isla, who is nearly 2, is Totenkopf Isla at Inverlochy,

while Puppy Maya, aged eight months, is Totenkopf Maya at Inverlochy.

John said: “The dogs are pets first and foremost. As well as rosettes and certificates, the dogs receive treats when they come home. The shows are the icing on the cake, the awards are the candles on the icing on the cake”.

TENANT PARTICIPATION AWARD FOR CAOL RESIDENTS GROUP

Iain Ferguson

For the second year in succession, Lochaber has won the runner-up award from the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS) in competition with projects across Scotland.

Tenant Participation first started in the Highlands in the 1990s, however, the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 gave tenants the legal rights to work more closely with their landlord - in this case The Highland Council - towards the delivery of better services.

This involves consulting and involving tenants in the services provided through effective communication with the local authority, often through the formation of local tenant groups, many of which have been set up with the help of Tenant Participation Officers (TPOs).

At the centre of the submission to the panel of judges was Caol Residents Group which was all the more remarkable since it had only been up and running for just over a year, during which time much had been achieved.

Vice chairman Pamela Hendry and Tenant Participation Officer Karin Mckay travelled to the annual TPAS conference to pick

up the award on behalf of the group.

What Caol has been doing

• Caol Resident Group has been successful in gaining funding to operate its well-attended Bite & Blether, providing a safe, warm place, free food, tea and coffee and most importantly a good blether. This is run by the group in partnership with Tenant Participation and Highlife Highland.

• It has improved the area by working with TP and the Flood Protection Team to get nine

electricity boxes installed for Christmas trees so that each year the different areas will have lovely tree lights. The group held its first Christmas light switch on and event last year.

• It also organised an Easter event for the community and a free lunch on the King’s coronation. Both were well attended by tenants and residents of Caol.

• It works closely with the community council and Caol Action Group on the locality plan.

What’s On at The Nevis Centre

Saturday

NEVIS

Lots

September

NEVIS

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CARING FOR CARERS - HIGHLAND ROADSHOW

Jo Cowan

Event organisers are keen to spread the word about a roadshow throughout Highland, from September 20 to October 6, to help unpaid carers. It is estimated that one in three of us will be carers at some point in our lives. Many of us don’t even realise we are carers and that you don’t have to be in receipt of carers allowance to qualify for help and support. The short breaks fund, for example, could help an unpaid carer to take a short holiday or enjoy their hobby. Perhaps an ebike is what would make a difference to your quality of life as an unpaid carer, a sewing machine or getting a gardener round if things are becoming a bit wild outside.

Just identifying what help is available to you can be tricky. In response, a host of agencies have collaborated to launch a Highland Roadshow with events in Fort William, Aviemore and as far west as Skye and into Thurso and Wick. This is a chance to meet face-to-face with the real people who can help you in a completely

informal environment where there’s no such thing as a silly question. Online services are great, but can seem complicated or alienating to lots of folk. Another reason for the roadshows is to bring people together, so we’re encouraging not only unpaid carers, but professionals and potential volunteers to come as well.

Leading the initiative for NHS Highland, Jennifer Campbell said: ‘We’re really hoping to reach carers who are ‘off-radar’. In Highland, there are thousands of people of all ages working hard to support a neighbour, friend or relative, but many aren’t aware there is any help available to them personally. There’s clearly a natural tendency to concentrate

on the person being cared for before yourself. We want to offer support before someone becomes overwhelmed. Sometimes small things can make a big difference. Last year we funded glass-blowing equipment for a carer who loves his hobby and shares it with his brother. They find it relaxing and rewarding and now even make a bit of money selling their beautiful work locally.’

Each event is a drop-in with refreshments provided to encourage you to stick around and perhaps chat to people in a similar situation to your own. You can bring the person you care for with you.

Ring 07966 565138 to find out more about the event closest to you, or search ‘Carers’ Roadshow’ on Eventbrite.

Participating services include: Befrienders

Highland, Connecting Carers, Change Mental Health, Community Contacts, Partners in Advocacy, Creativity in Care, Alzheimer Scotland, Thriving Families, Dementia Friendly Communities and NHS Highland Short Breaks.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ANNE DOWNS

Marianne, Jeni and Margaret would like to thank all our family, friends, colleagues and neighbours for their cards, flowers, meals and messages of support and kindness shown after the sudden passing of our lovely mum, Anne Downs. A special thank you to Peter, Amanda and John at McLellan Funerals for their support and professionalism at such a difficult time. Thank you to McDonald Brothers for mum’s final flowers, the last of many sent to her over the years, to the Beaufort Hotel (Inverness) for the catering and especially to the teams at the Belford Hospital for their care of our mum. Anne and David together in God’s memory awaiting His call (Job 14:13-15)”

JOHAN MACLEOD

Maggie, Kenny, Fiona and their families would like to thank everyone who travelled near and far to attended Johan’s funeral service in Spean Bridge. Thanks to McDonald Florist for their beautiful flowers, The Old station Restaurant for the amazing spread of food and to the piper Sandy MacKenzie for his talented playing. A special Thank you to Rev. Adrian Varwell for his very comforting service and Gaelic prayer. Thank you to all at McLellan Funeral Directors for all their help and support. A total of £175.70 was raised in memory of Johan for Munlochy Animal Aid.

KENNETH (KEITH) HAMILTON

Lillias, Susan and David would like to express their sincere thanks for all the cards, flowers and messages of sympathy received, following the recent sudden passing of Keith. We thank John Flannigan and Staff at John McLellan Funeral Directors for their care and professionalism. Thanks also to Dr John Wallace, and Paramedics; a special thank you to Leanne Russell. We are indebted to the Medical Cardiac Department, Belford Hospital for their attentive care. Thank you to Shiona at McDonald Bros for the lovely floral arrangements.

Sincere thanks to Rev Edward Andrews and Rev Rory MacLeod for pastoral visits, and for officiating at the service in the church, and at the graveside. Thank you to Miss May Macintyre, organist. We also thank the Elders of the Kirk Session for their attendance.

Thank you to James Rosie, piper, for playing at the church and cemetery.

CATHIE CAMPBELL

Alisdair wishes to thank all friends, relatives and neighbours for cards, mass cards, letters and expressions of sympathy after the death of Cathie. Special thanks to the staff of Ward 1, Belford Hospital for their care and compassion over the last eight months and to the staff of Invernevis House for their care in the short time Cathie was with them. Thanks also to the Very Revd Margi Campbell and the Revd Father Sandy Culley and organist Kevin Cameron for the beautiful service in church. Thanks also to the staff of John McLellan funeral directors for their expert handling of the funeral arrangements and to the Railway Social Club for catering afterwards.

AUDREY TOD

All of Audrey’s family would like to express their gratitude for the kindness and sympathy they received from neighbours and friends, upon her long illness and death. We have to acknowledge in particular the neverfailing support of our Crossroads carers, the Kinlochleven Medical Practice and the community nurses.

Thank you to McLellan’s, to the Rev Amanda Fairclough at St Paul’s Episcopal Church and to all who attended the beautiful service. And a very special thanks to our fellow-members of St Paul’s who gifted their time and talent to decorate the church with flowers and to make the funeral tea a comfortable occasion. God bless you all.

100 Years of Service to the Community of Lochaber

We are delighted to announce that John McLellan & Co Ltd, have been providing quality Funeral Services to the community of Lochaber since 1923.

Much has changed in the workshops where John McLellan “the blunt” would have been crafting his bespoke skills as a carpenter and funeral director in Fort William.

Today a significant investment in new workshops and mortuary are well underway, and the company is pleased to offer the best quality care on behalf of your family and loved ones.

The next phase of development shall include our new ‘Gathering Room’ and ‘Chapel’ facilities that will be able to offer a more intimate service for smaller groups of people.

We also offer Open Pre-Paid Funeral Plans and we would be delighted to introduce you to the funeral plan provider from our offices here in Dudley Road.

I will keep you informed as the developments progress.

Pete O’Neill Director.

Sollas, Bunree, Onich, FORT WILLIAM PH33 6SE Mob 0780 335 7221 Tel: 01855 818026

Michael J Kennedy Painters & Decorators For High Quality Workmanship

If you haven’t heard that true, but irritating, statement this year yet - read it here: “The nights are drawing in”. Time to reminisce about holidays and summer days.

Years ago, the congregation of MacIntosh Memorial Church sent their minister to the USA on a sabbatical. It was my privilege to accompany him. One memorable occasion involved First (Scots) Presbyterian Church in Charleston, South Carolina. He was invited to preach on their ‘Scottish Sunday’, which co-ordinated

with Grandfather Mountain Highland Games. Americans do ‘Scottish’ things their own way. A tradition called ‘Kirkin o‘ the Tartans’ meant parading tartan banners down the aisles before the service.

That event came to mind when, in July, Summerville Sacred Voices, a choir from a church North of Charleston, came to Lochaber. They were touring Scotland and offered to perform a concert at Duncansburgh for Fort William Kilmallie Parish funds. With typical American generosity, they not only sang to a good turnout of supporters, but made their own donation to church funds. Beginning with a processional hymn, they included a wide variety of sacred music from classical to

spirituals, ably accompanied by a local pianist. Well-rehearsed pieces were sung beautifully and sincerely. However, most moving to me were brief solo parts by two elderly men.

One had a special light attached to his musical score, presumably due to failing eyesight. Like me, as my mother would have put it, “they were showing their age”. That didn’t stop them praising God in a foreign land, like the Israelites in Babylon, as recorded in Psalm 137.8 and celebrated in song by Boney M.

By the rivers of Babylon…. ‘May I never be able to sing again if I do not remember you (Lord God) if I do not think of you as my greatest ‘joy!”(GNB)

The challenge for those “drawing in” nights- keep singing, joyfully.

Popular janitor of Lochyside School Joe Wilson surrounded by pupils and school staff who gathered to wish him well in his retirement. Photograph: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image.

BIKE TRACK OPENS

Iain Ferguson

Six years of hard work, fundraising and negotiation came together at the beginning of August with the opening of the Bike Park next to Lochaber High School.

One of the main features is the ‘Pump Track’ of humps and banked curves specially designed to be attractive, challenging and usable by almost all ages and skill levels.

Biking is a popular sport in the area and the opening of the park offers new opportunities to be explored, such as adding it to PE lessons at the school and still on the educational front, working with local groups and businesses in providing courses for school pupils in bike care and

maintenance.

Other than the main track, there is a smaller ‘all abilities’ area which is flatter and has been designed to accommodate tricycle and

four-wheeled machines ridden by individuals and with assistants, but still giving a lot of fun, with a little bit of excitement thrown in for added enjoyment.

In another phase, which is still under construction, a park of ramps and jumps for skateboarders or BMX riders will soon be ready. Plans are also in place to build a shed or clubhouse for indoor learning and maintenance - other than, of course, giving welcome shelter from Lochaber’s liquid sunshine!

Use of the park is free at all times, although during the school day restrictions will be in place. At all other times it will be open from early morning until around 9.30pm.

After a few short speeches and thanks to the funders who made it possible, the park was officially opened to the public, with an immediate influx of enthusiastic and excited bikers, keen to try out the track for themselves.

Chairman of the group behind the park Gregor Muir said: “Everyone on the committee put in a tremendous amount of work over a long period of time in making this happen.

“On behalf of the group and

the entire community, I would like to say thank you for your support in making this happen.

“It is a resource which will see an immense amount of use and be of great benefit far into the future.”

PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY

Members of Fort William Photographic Society are once again sharing some of the images they have taken over last few months. The group meet in the Salvation Army Hall, Fort William, on the second Tuesday of each month. Anyone with an interest in photography is welcome. To find out more about the society, visit its social media page.

Iain Ferguson

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John O’Neil.

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Drive slowly is the message on this sign - but where?

LAST MONTH:

The fisherman’s bothy at Invermallie, Loch Arkaig, described as ‘a little treasure’ by Ken Johnston who supplied the photograph.

WILLIAM BOWLS OVER ALL COMERS

Iain Ferguson

A local bowling star arose at the end of Fort William’s Ten Pin Bowling League in July, taking all but one of the trophies he was eligible to play for.

William Lansborough from Caol bowled his way to success playing every game throughout the season, racking up the points in many categories which led to him to gaining a clutch of awards at the presentation ceremony in the Nevis Centre.

Barely managing to catch breath between collecting the silverware, William took the FW Bouncy Castle Trophy for the most overall scratch points with 168 points, beating Steve Day into second place with 152 points and Brian Stewart as third with 145 points.

The Robert Cairns Shield for the most men’s handicap points was closely contested, with William on 114, followed by Brian on 113 and Steve with 112.

William also took the Nevis Radio Highest Total (scratch)

Pinfall Trophy with 3,731 pins, well ahead of runners up Steve with 3,507 and Brian with 3,362.

Next on the prize list was the Triple B-BnBG Cup for the most men’s scratch points with 136, again followed by Steve on 121 and Brian on 117, followed by the Nevis Centre High Game Award with the top scratch game of the season of 214 which secured him a place in the Nevis Centre 200 Club 2023 along with fellow bowlers Pam Weller with a 203 and Steve Day who had games of 201 and 200.

One trophy which evaded William by just one point was the Weller Quaich for most handicap points overall which went to Steve Day with 140 points, with William pushing

Brian Stewart into third place, also by a single point.

In the ladies section, the Purple Cup for the most scratch points went to Pam Weller with 32 points, followed by Gaynor Weldon on 16 and Zoe Gregor with 12.

The British Legion Trophy for the most ladies’ handicap points also went to Pam with 27, this time followed by Zoe with 18 and Gaynor with 16.

As if taking so many top places wasn’t enough, just a few days later William scored another ‘first’ by coaching First Minister Humza Yousaf into scoring a ‘strike’ as he toured the Nevis Centre before announcing the Scottish Rural Parliament would be meeting at the venue next November.