I’m pleased to announce that a couple of weeks back, after much huffing and puffing the delivery men (with Harry and Helen’s help!) finally took away the old photocopier and installed our new colour/black/white printer/copier.
This newsletter is the first run - I hope you’ll see the difference.
We will continue to offer anyone in the community photocopying facilities - and now with the added benefit of colour.
We haven’t yet sorted out the new pricing - this will be published in the next issue. However, if you need copies in the meantime, please contact Harry and Helen to get this organised.
The newsletter team are very grateful for the support we’ve received in raising funds to buy this machine, we certainly couldn’t have got this far without the support of George Seligman, who has been instrumental in raising the bulk of the funds, by contacting local landowners, who have been most generous.
In addition, David at the Spa Pharmacy deserves a special mention, as do ALL our ‘friends’ - including Peter Burrows-Smith who negotiated a superb deal, with Highland Office Supplies, Inverness, on our behalf. Thanks to Steven and Mike at HOS, too!
So, to EVERYONE who has donated, and there are some who wish to remain anonymous - a very BIG THANK YOU!
Friends of the News & Views:
The Seligman, van Dedeem, Smith/Verulam and Wilson families
The Aultguish Inn
Evie Urquhart
Mr. Friday
Mr. Monks
R. J. Macleod
E.ON
Spa Pharmacy
Doug Winship
The whole McBurney ‘gang’ from the cottage at Achanalt
The Douglas family (Glencarron)
Peter Burrows-Smith, Richmond
Highland Office Supplies
All N & V advertisers
All N & V sales outlets
Fundraising continues
Our fundraising has to continue - to help pay for the upkeep of the machine and paper to produce this newsletter. We want to continue to provide the newsletter FREE to all households in the GDCC area.
Advertisers have been very supportive, and you’ll note we have attracted some new people this issue - we appreciate the support from all our advertisers.
We’re always on the lookout for new sales outlets. Thanks to all current retailers/hotels for doing your bit!
The Team
The newsletter team is expanding - I now have help with preparing editorial (Moira Harris, Laura Gauna and Michelle Stevenson), and Kenny Maclean is helping Jim and I with advertising. With Debbie and Barry Peters, and Gill Ross also throwing in their two-pennyworth, with ideas and initiatives.
In particular, Moira and Laura have been instrumental in pulling together our new section covering events. Something which I’ve never had the time to do.
Harry and Helen continue with their sterling work looking after production and distribution, ably assisted by Pam Morrison and others.
The advert for the new editor wasn’t successful, so I’m afraid you’re stuck with me… thank you to those who’ve sent messages of support and said nice things about the newsletter - it makes all the grey hair worthwhile!
Everyone is pulling together, contributing to the success of the newsletter, and helping where they can. To remind you, this very willing team of people are ALL volunteers.
If you’d like to join us at any of our meetings you’ll be very welcome (there’ll be a cuppa and a warm welcome) don’t worry we won’t give you a ’job’ unless you step forward - this is YOUR newsletter, come and tell us what you think! (See calendar for next meeting date, and page 24 for all contact information).
Finally, with the Community Council election looming - please make use of the nomination form.
I won’t labour the point about fresh starts, apart from saying that whoever makes up the new CC let’s give them our support, and let’s see more of you at the CC meetings in future - this is your community, too!
Jackie West
Lochside (more like Back Garden!)
Well, it actually rained today! Snow still thick in the garden in places but not quite as cold as of late! My back door area is like an aviary, full of birds, the yellow canary-like siskins, the blue of the tit family and the black-browns of the blackbirds and of course the aggressive little robins, flashing their red breasts and fluttering in anger if another bird comes near.
They all have different characters. The coal tits, for example, are much brighter than the blue tits, a lot quicker on the uptake, taking food while the blue tits just look at it. The small dunnocks take no notice of the robins' intimidation, in fact only another robin will fly off. Most of the birds will tolerate one another. The blackbirds are the next most aggressive with one another, I find, even with enough food out for a dozen or more, one blackbird will always chase off its same species and try to hug all the food.
A weasel scoots around and is ignored by the woodpecker on the nut container and all the smaller birds who wait for the bits of nuts that are distributed by the much bigger bird. The weasel in turn ignores the birds and is content to put his nose into the plastic container holding pigs' blood and liver scraps I put out for it; also, a tin of sardines is half carried, half dragged under the bushes; it went off with a whole mackerel on one occasion which was quite comical as at times it looked as though the mackerel was carrying the weasel!
I haven't seen the stoat recently but it's not far away as, like the pine marten, it loves the fat balls I put out and I find the green net they come in in a pile under the bushes.
The small deer herd has abandoned the front garden under the large ivy-covered birch tree but a few imprints show that at least one small deer has come into the back garden when I left the gate open and enjoyed a few leaves off a rosebush. The bush plus a climber were on the ground anyway, the latter pulled off its trellis by the weight of snow. If it's edible, I don't mind whatever gets eaten by the wild life if it keeps them alive, it all seems to grow again anyway.
I've only been out on three occasions since before Christmas to try fishing but with the lochs frozen over, one inch of ice on the shallower lochs and two inches on Chuillin, it's been a waste of time. I did find some otter scat which was encouraging but not a sign of any type of fish.
This, I must confess, is the longest period in the past ten years I've gone without catching a fish of some sort. The last fish of any note came way back in July when a 21lb pike was caught and returned. The hill lochs will be slow to warm up this year once the ice has melted, so fly fishing will be out for a while once the season starts this month. It's been an unusually cold winter for all concerned and whether it will benefit the fish through not being fished over the cold period remains to be seen.
It's been the coldest spell I've ever felt in my life, owing to no heat in the house nor any hot or cold water but I've survived, with some help from my friends and I've no doubt the fish, who are more adapted to the cold than us humans, will be on the feed again as the water warms and I'll be there at the 'Lochside' when they do.
So, roll on, summer.
David Willis
Ed’s note: the above from David missed the last issue. We haven’t heard from David this time around, we can only assume that he’s too busy ‘Lochside’ making up for lost time and enjoying the warmer weather. Hopefully, we’ll hear from David when he gets a minute or two - after all, this is the Highlands and it’s bound to be too wet to fish at some point!
They all have different characters. The coal tits, for example, are much brighter than the blue tits, a lot quicker on the uptake, taking food while the blue tits just look at it. The small dunnocks take no notice of the robins' intimidation, in fact only another robin will fly off. Most of the birds will tolerate one another. The blackbirds are the next most aggressive with one another, I find, even with enough food out for a dozen or more, one blackbird will always chase off its same species and try to hug all the food.
A weasel scoots around and is ignored by the woodpecker on the nut container and all the smaller birds who wait for the bits of nuts that are distributed by the much bigger bird. The weasel in turn ignores the birds and is content to put his nose into the plastic container holding pigs' blood and liver scraps I put out for it; also, a tin of sardines is half carried, half dragged under the bushes; it went off with a whole mackerel on one occasion which was quite comical as at times it looked as though the mackerel was carrying the weasel!
I haven't seen the stoat recently but it's not far away as, like the pine marten, it loves the fat balls I put out and I find the green net they come in in a pile under the bushes.
The small deer herd has abandoned the front garden under the large ivy-covered birch tree but a few imprints show that at least one small deer has come into the back garden when I left the gate open and enjoyed a few leaves off a rosebush. The bush plus a climber were on the ground anyway, the latter pulled off its trellis by the weight of snow. If it's edible, I don't mind whatever gets eaten by the wild life if it keeps them alive, it all seems to grow again anyway.
I've only been out on three occasions since before Christmas to try fishing but with the lochs frozen over, one inch of ice on the shallower lochs and two inches on Chuillin, it's been a waste of time. I did find some otter scat which was encouraging but not a sign of any type of fish.
This, I must confess, is the longest period in the past ten years I've gone without catching a fish of some sort. The last fish of any note came way back in July when a 21lb pike was caught and returned. The hill lochs will be slow to warm up this year once the ice has melted, so fly fishing will be out for a while once the season starts this month. It's been an unusually cold winter for all concerned and whether it will benefit the fish through not being fished over the cold period remains to be seen.
It's been the coldest spell I've ever felt in my life, owing to no heat in the house nor any hot or cold water but I've survived, with some help from my friends and I've no doubt the fish, who are more adapted to the cold than us humans, will be on the feed again as the water warms and I'll be there at the 'Lochside' when they do.
So, roll on, summer.
David Willis
Ed’s note: the above from David missed the last issue. We haven’t heard from David this time around, we can only assume that he’s too busy ‘Lochside’ making up for lost time and enjoying the warmer weather. Hopefully, we’ll hear from David when he gets a minute or two - after all, this is the Highlands and it’s bound to be too wet to fish at some point!
Shinty!
Congratulations to Kenny Ross who has been appointed Assistant Coach for the Scotland Shinty Team.Kenny who retired from the game last year, will be a great asset to the Scottish team, and an even greater inspiration to all concerned.
His Father Ronnie and his two uncles, Tommy and David, would also like to take some of the credit for Kenny’s brilliance! Well done, Kenny!
Gill Ross
Garve Bring and Buy... a big thank you!
From Tabby Angier:
A big THANK YOU to all who came along, and donated, to the Bring and Buy at Garve, on the 3 April. A grand total of £467.85 was raised for the ‘Erskine Hospital for Ex-Servicemen and Women’.
Special thanks to Shona and Paul Gough, Tom MacLeod, Bertha Logie, Kenny Stewart, Johnny, John and Margaret Grant, Carol Grant for super home-baking! And, all those who came from the West Coast! Thank you one and all!
In the first photo, from the left is Paul Gough (Marybank) Tom MacLeod (Nairn) from the Parachute Regimental Assoc Highlands & Islands Branch and Mrs Tabby Angier, and members of the public. Second photo is a happy shopper Mrs Marion Taylor trying on a new Easter Bonnet. Third photo is one of many raffle winners Mr Paul Gough, receiving a bottle of malt whisky from Mrs Tabby Angier.
A big THANK YOU to all who came along, and donated, to the Bring and Buy at Garve, on the 3 April. A grand total of £467.85 was raised for the ‘Erskine Hospital for Ex-Servicemen and Women’.
Special thanks to Shona and Paul Gough, Tom MacLeod, Bertha Logie, Kenny Stewart, Johnny, John and Margaret Grant, Carol Grant for super home-baking! And, all those who came from the West Coast! Thank you one and all!In the first photo, from the left is Paul Gough (Marybank) Tom MacLeod (Nairn) from the Parachute Regimental Assoc Highlands & Islands Branch and Mrs Tabby Angier, and members of the public. Second photo is a happy shopper Mrs Marion Taylor trying on a new Easter Bonnet. Third photo is one of many raffle winners Mr Paul Gough, receiving a bottle of malt whisky from Mrs Tabby Angier.
Friends of Highland Rheumatology Unit
From Michelle Stevenson:
The Account for The Friends of Highland Rheumatology Unit (HRU) is now up and running for anyone who may have a fundraising idea or perhaps would like to make a voluntary donation. All monies raised will be used to benefit the patients of the Rheumatology Unit in Dingwall by way of items used on a daily basis. (ie heatbags/blankets/electric beds/hoists etc)
To date, and after several fundraising activities we have raised nearly £800. The Bric-a-Brac fair at Ledgowan Lodge Hotel raised £313.20 and the boot sale at Achnasheen on Sat 1 May raised £60 (as items were only priced £1, some people very generously gave more than this, thank you, you know who you are). And many thanks to Gill Ross for the use of the hall. Very kind of you misses!
By the time you read this Ryan Maclean of Kinlochewe will have taken part in the Bealach na Beag cycle challenge (Sat 8 May) - a sponsored event in aid of Friends of HRU. There will be another update in the next issue. We hope to raise enough money to take our account over the £1,000 mark. If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please phone me for details. Michelle (01445) 760351.
Many thanks to everyone for their generous support so far. It really is appreciated! The Rheumatology Review is ongoing with NHS , but we had the 4 inpatient beds re-installed on 5th April bringing the beds back up to 14. However, the fight is far from over!
Watch this space.....
The Account for The Friends of Highland Rheumatology Unit (HRU) is now up and running for anyone who may have a fundraising idea or perhaps would like to make a voluntary donation. All monies raised will be used to benefit the patients of the Rheumatology Unit in Dingwall by way of items used on a daily basis. (ie heatbags/blankets/electric beds/hoists etc)
To date, and after several fundraising activities we have raised nearly £800. The Bric-a-Brac fair at Ledgowan Lodge Hotel raised £313.20 and the boot sale at Achnasheen on Sat 1 May raised £60 (as items were only priced £1, some people very generously gave more than this, thank you, you know who you are). And many thanks to Gill Ross for the use of the hall. Very kind of you misses!
By the time you read this Ryan Maclean of Kinlochewe will have taken part in the Bealach na Beag cycle challenge (Sat 8 May) - a sponsored event in aid of Friends of HRU. There will be another update in the next issue. We hope to raise enough money to take our account over the £1,000 mark. If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please phone me for details. Michelle (01445) 760351.
Many thanks to everyone for their generous support so far. It really is appreciated! The Rheumatology Review is ongoing with NHS , but we had the 4 inpatient beds re-installed on 5th April bringing the beds back up to 14. However, the fight is far from over!
Watch this space.....
Achnasheen Amenities
From Gill Ross:
Christmas Raffle
A belated thanks to everyone who gave so generously towards the two lovely hampers, which we raffled at Christmas, in aid of Hall funds.
We raised £85 on the raffle, and another £100 on the 'Pick a Square for the Christmas Cake' - the cake was donated by Michelle Stevenson, of Kinlochewe (Thanks, Michelle!)
The lucky winers were:
Hamper 1: Margaret Downs, Achnasheen
Hamper 2: Shona Allison (late of Letterewe Estate)
Christmas Cake: Joyce Walker, Inverness
Bric-a-Brac Fair
Thanks to everybody who contributed to our sale on Saturday 10th April, at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel. We all had a really good time, thankfully I had two very capable young assistants to help me on the stall, Andrew and Rebecca Lamb, who made some very worthwhile sales.
We made a very tidy sum of £80 which will go towards new tables for Achnasheen Village Hall. Look out for more fundraising events, and please, if there is anyone who is interested in helping to raise money for our village hall, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Carbootie
On Saturday 1st May we held a Carbootie in Achnasheen Hall. This was the first of many that we have in mind for this Summer, to enable anyone to raise money for themselves, or a favourite charity. It proved to be a very successful day for those who had a stall, and the many who came to grab a bargain!
Achnasheen Hall benefited to the tune of £70 which will go towards a new Microwave Oven.
Our next Carbootie is planned for the 5th June, so if anyone needs to de-clutter and raise a bit of extra cash for whatever cause, and goodness knows that’s probably most of us, please come along and bag yourself a table and have some fun! Contact me at the Post Office for details.
Christmas Raffle
A belated thanks to everyone who gave so generously towards the two lovely hampers, which we raffled at Christmas, in aid of Hall funds.
We raised £85 on the raffle, and another £100 on the 'Pick a Square for the Christmas Cake' - the cake was donated by Michelle Stevenson, of Kinlochewe (Thanks, Michelle!)
The lucky winers were:
Hamper 1: Margaret Downs, Achnasheen
Hamper 2: Shona Allison (late of Letterewe Estate)
Christmas Cake: Joyce Walker, Inverness
Bric-a-Brac Fair
Thanks to everybody who contributed to our sale on Saturday 10th April, at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel. We all had a really good time, thankfully I had two very capable young assistants to help me on the stall, Andrew and Rebecca Lamb, who made some very worthwhile sales.
We made a very tidy sum of £80 which will go towards new tables for Achnasheen Village Hall. Look out for more fundraising events, and please, if there is anyone who is interested in helping to raise money for our village hall, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Carbootie
On Saturday 1st May we held a Carbootie in Achnasheen Hall. This was the first of many that we have in mind for this Summer, to enable anyone to raise money for themselves, or a favourite charity. It proved to be a very successful day for those who had a stall, and the many who came to grab a bargain!
Achnasheen Hall benefited to the tune of £70 which will go towards a new Microwave Oven.
Our next Carbootie is planned for the 5th June, so if anyone needs to de-clutter and raise a bit of extra cash for whatever cause, and goodness knows that’s probably most of us, please come along and bag yourself a table and have some fun! Contact me at the Post Office for details.
Recycling news
From Larisa Jansen:
Strathgarve Primary Recycling Day:
Strathgarve Primary has been involved with different Eco projects. The children have been learning about how to save energy, how to reduce waste, composting, garden maintenance, creating wildlife environment in garden, seeding, planting and growing “tatties”, observing vegetation and feeding wildlife - to name just a few.
The school has a garden improvement team, pupils bring their ideas, and with little help from adults, lots of these have been actioned.
The school’s Recycle Day is being held on Friday, 18 June, and will fundraise for the school. The day is open to all, bring your used ink cartridges, mobiles and aluminium drinking cans (cans in bin bag please). We will then get cash for items, and children will discuss further how to invest this in school. Cans could become charity project - see on the web Alupro and Recycool.
On the day, coffees and teas will be served with cake. Starting at 10am and finishing 2pm. The children will be demonstrating their arts and crafts from recycled material, an arts project which starts in May until the Recycling Day.
Anyone wishing to participate, will be welcome to bring home-made recycled art. It would be fascinating to see a selection of art, from different materials! You are all welcome, with, or without, a piece of art! The Strathgarve children and teachers are looking forward to seeing you on the day - the school garden will also be open for viewing. Further inquiries please contact Larisa 01997 455230, or Charlotte on 01997 414206.
Update:
Dingwall Recycle centre (and more over Highlands) is now recycling all waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
Anything with a plug attached, or battery inside counts. From a hairdryer, DVD player to fridges, freezers, and washing machines. Even fluorescent light tubes, standard and energy light bulbs. Plus battery toys!
Standard AA and AAA, etc, batteries, as well as rechargeables, will have a home here. All these facilities, of course, help reduce landfill, with the re-use of components.
However, if your electrical item is still in good working order, a charity service called New Start Highland, welcomes electrical items as donations (furniture, too!)
Businesses also, are very welcome to donate! These items will provide practical help to individuals in the Highland area who have been without a home, and are moving into a new abode, as well as those on low incomes. For more information please call New Start Highland on 01463 715615.
ROWAN has started a local project with businesses, to join in a free local waste exchange scheme. This can save businesses both money and resources, through reduced material and waste disposal costs. 70% of landfill comes from commerce and industry, and the project is a start to bring down waste from businesses and getting staff involved.
Compost and reduce your food waste - food waste in landfill sites gives off methane as it decomposes. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, so you are not only saving money (on average Scottish households throw out around £430 in food, per year!) but you are helping to keep the environment cleaner.
Strathgarve Primary Recycling Day:
Strathgarve Primary has been involved with different Eco projects. The children have been learning about how to save energy, how to reduce waste, composting, garden maintenance, creating wildlife environment in garden, seeding, planting and growing “tatties”, observing vegetation and feeding wildlife - to name just a few.
The school has a garden improvement team, pupils bring their ideas, and with little help from adults, lots of these have been actioned.
The school’s Recycle Day is being held on Friday, 18 June, and will fundraise for the school. The day is open to all, bring your used ink cartridges, mobiles and aluminium drinking cans (cans in bin bag please). We will then get cash for items, and children will discuss further how to invest this in school. Cans could become charity project - see on the web Alupro and Recycool.
On the day, coffees and teas will be served with cake. Starting at 10am and finishing 2pm. The children will be demonstrating their arts and crafts from recycled material, an arts project which starts in May until the Recycling Day.
Anyone wishing to participate, will be welcome to bring home-made recycled art. It would be fascinating to see a selection of art, from different materials! You are all welcome, with, or without, a piece of art! The Strathgarve children and teachers are looking forward to seeing you on the day - the school garden will also be open for viewing. Further inquiries please contact Larisa 01997 455230, or Charlotte on 01997 414206.
Update:
Dingwall Recycle centre (and more over Highlands) is now recycling all waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
Anything with a plug attached, or battery inside counts. From a hairdryer, DVD player to fridges, freezers, and washing machines. Even fluorescent light tubes, standard and energy light bulbs. Plus battery toys!
Standard AA and AAA, etc, batteries, as well as rechargeables, will have a home here. All these facilities, of course, help reduce landfill, with the re-use of components.
However, if your electrical item is still in good working order, a charity service called New Start Highland, welcomes electrical items as donations (furniture, too!)
Businesses also, are very welcome to donate! These items will provide practical help to individuals in the Highland area who have been without a home, and are moving into a new abode, as well as those on low incomes. For more information please call New Start Highland on 01463 715615.
ROWAN has started a local project with businesses, to join in a free local waste exchange scheme. This can save businesses both money and resources, through reduced material and waste disposal costs. 70% of landfill comes from commerce and industry, and the project is a start to bring down waste from businesses and getting staff involved.
Compost and reduce your food waste - food waste in landfill sites gives off methane as it decomposes. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, so you are not only saving money (on average Scottish households throw out around £430 in food, per year!) but you are helping to keep the environment cleaner.
Congratulations Rhys!
Rhys Wilson passed the commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst on the 16th of April, 2010.
Rhys is the nephew of Marion and Barry Taylor, Andrew Logie and the grandson of Bertha, and the late Sandy, Logie.
During his initial training on a 75k march which had to be completed within 24 hours, one of the Officer Cadets collapsed and stopped breathing. As the lads were beyond radio range, Rhys and another Cadet volunteered to run 6k down the mountains during the night to reach the nearest checkpoint, whilst the other two Cadets remained with the young man to administer C.P.R. This was no mean feat as it all took place on the Brecon Beacons in Wales!
In recognition of their tremendous efforts in helping the stricken Cadet, they were given a commendation by Sandhurst.
King Abdullah of Jordan flew the four young men out to Jordan on his private jet for a holiday. Before leaving Jordan, Rhys and his three fellow Cadets were granted an audience with the King where they were each presented with a Commendation and a watch for saving the life of their fellow Cadet - a young Jordanian - who was training alongside them at Sandhurst.
It goes without saying that a very proud Aunty Mar, Uncle Barry, Uncle Andrew and Granny Bertha made the journey south to Sandhurst on the 16th, to watch Rhys on this very special occasion.
Rhys has now joined his chosen Regiment, the King’s Royal Hussars, at Tidworth as a 2nd Lieutenant.
He spends every opportunity he can in Garve and during one Summer was employed by the Garve Hotel.
Marion Taylor
Rhys is the nephew of Marion and Barry Taylor, Andrew Logie and the grandson of Bertha, and the late Sandy, Logie.
During his initial training on a 75k march which had to be completed within 24 hours, one of the Officer Cadets collapsed and stopped breathing. As the lads were beyond radio range, Rhys and another Cadet volunteered to run 6k down the mountains during the night to reach the nearest checkpoint, whilst the other two Cadets remained with the young man to administer C.P.R. This was no mean feat as it all took place on the Brecon Beacons in Wales!
In recognition of their tremendous efforts in helping the stricken Cadet, they were given a commendation by Sandhurst.
King Abdullah of Jordan flew the four young men out to Jordan on his private jet for a holiday. Before leaving Jordan, Rhys and his three fellow Cadets were granted an audience with the King where they were each presented with a Commendation and a watch for saving the life of their fellow Cadet - a young Jordanian - who was training alongside them at Sandhurst.It goes without saying that a very proud Aunty Mar, Uncle Barry, Uncle Andrew and Granny Bertha made the journey south to Sandhurst on the 16th, to watch Rhys on this very special occasion.
Rhys has now joined his chosen Regiment, the King’s Royal Hussars, at Tidworth as a 2nd Lieutenant.
He spends every opportunity he can in Garve and during one Summer was employed by the Garve Hotel.
Marion Taylor
Peak energy
Free keep fit class including aerobic exercise, toning, strengthening, stretching. Something for everyone who wants to improve their health and fitness.
Achnasheen Village Hall
Tuesday 1st, Wednesday 9th, Tuesday 15th, Tuesday 22nd June, 7.30pm - 8.30pm
Come along for a workout at your level and feel the difference!
Wear comfortable clothing/footwear and bring an exercise mat/towel to lie on ,and some water.
Moira - 07799 844874
Achnasheen Village Hall
Tuesday 1st, Wednesday 9th, Tuesday 15th, Tuesday 22nd June, 7.30pm - 8.30pm
Come along for a workout at your level and feel the difference!
Wear comfortable clothing/footwear and bring an exercise mat/towel to lie on ,and some water.
Moira - 07799 844874
No sinking feeling with this performance.....
In March, Achnasheen resident, Steve Jones, was at the helm of the Inverness Opera Company's production of the musical, "Titanic," at Eden Court Theatre, Inverness. As Music Director, Steve steered a cast of 80 singers and a 20-strong orchestra through 5 performances, each one receiving a standing ovation and enthusiastic cheering from the audiences.
The Titanic represented the finest example of early 20th century maritime engineering and its story is an emotive one, especially as everyone knows the outcome. The success of this award-winning Broadway musical lies in the fact that the characters are all named members of the actual crew and 1st, 2nd and 3rd class passengers who set sail on that fateful journey.
As the true story of events unfolds, the audience learns about the different hopes and aspirations of this cross-section of society as they head off to America, the land of opportunity. The broad dramatic spectrum, encompassing humour, romance and tragedy, is underscored by a variety of beautifully illustrative and sympathetic music. The stage set in Eden Court re-created different areas of the gargantuan liner - captain's bridge, crow's nest, engine room, casino, dining room, ballroom, After the interval and the collision with the iceberg, the curtain rose to reveal the whole set on an angle, giving the impression of a slowly sink ship - ingenious!
The fine singers were all amateurs from Inverness and a wide surrounding area, and their solo and chorus singing highlighted the bounty of talent in the Highlands. Plus, full marks to the orchestra of fantastic local instrumental instructors and musicians who only had 4 rehearsals with the company before the opening night - truly professional.
The entire company, on stage and behind the scenes, should be congratulated for presenting such an epic production which both looked and sounded magnificent and provided the audience with a wonderful evening of musical theatre.
Moira Harris
(Illustration courtesy of Pam Morrison, who says "Steve Jones conducted a wonderful performance")
The Titanic represented the finest example of early 20th century maritime engineering and its story is an emotive one, especially as everyone knows the outcome. The success of this award-winning Broadway musical lies in the fact that the characters are all named members of the actual crew and 1st, 2nd and 3rd class passengers who set sail on that fateful journey.
As the true story of events unfolds, the audience learns about the different hopes and aspirations of this cross-section of society as they head off to America, the land of opportunity. The broad dramatic spectrum, encompassing humour, romance and tragedy, is underscored by a variety of beautifully illustrative and sympathetic music. The stage set in Eden Court re-created different areas of the gargantuan liner - captain's bridge, crow's nest, engine room, casino, dining room, ballroom, After the interval and the collision with the iceberg, the curtain rose to reveal the whole set on an angle, giving the impression of a slowly sink ship - ingenious!
The fine singers were all amateurs from Inverness and a wide surrounding area, and their solo and chorus singing highlighted the bounty of talent in the Highlands. Plus, full marks to the orchestra of fantastic local instrumental instructors and musicians who only had 4 rehearsals with the company before the opening night - truly professional.The entire company, on stage and behind the scenes, should be congratulated for presenting such an epic production which both looked and sounded magnificent and provided the audience with a wonderful evening of musical theatre.
Moira Harris
(Illustration courtesy of Pam Morrison, who says "Steve Jones conducted a wonderful performance")
Highlands and lowland walks
Whether you’re looking for something a little challenging, or just an easy stroll, you’ll find something to appeal in these articles.
While there are lovely day walks to be enjoyed in these hills, we decided to camp wild for two nights, so set off with our homes on our backs (thankfully I didn’t carry the tent). The start of the walk on the right hand side of the A832, 3 miles before Braemore Junction, there is a clearly marked path through the Inverbroom Estate. Look out for the large, stand alone wrought-iron gate with no fencing – a bit Harry Potterish. With a little drizzle but mild and windless conditions we headed up into the Western Fannaichs, looking back on beautiful views of Loch a’ Bhraoin as we ascended south on a stalker’s path high up the glen to the pass. Early morning, so gentle mists rose and fell around us, with views tantalisingly revealed then quickly concealed. A lovely ridge walk guided us to our first Munro, A’ CHAILLEACH, ‘the old woman’ (999m). I wonder who inspired the naming of this mountain?
Eventually, clearing conditions revealed our way forward and we were soon heading east and steeply ascending over rocky outcrops and along the ridge. Now there was snow under foot, easy enough to walk on and providing some fantastic architectural overhangs from the ridge edge. We arrived on SGURR BREAC, ‘speckled peak’ (1000m) and were welcomed by 4 ptarmigan who weren’t bothered by our presence. Lunch and a brew in the sun prepared us for a long ridge descent eastwards followed by the inevitable gruelling ascent over undulating ground to another stalker’s path. Once breathing had returned to normal and the heart wasn’t banging against the ribcage, the reward was a fantastic panorama of Fannaichs and hills beyond, with a spectacular backdrop of clear blue sky and sunshine.
As we ascended to the next top I was aware of nature’s amazing patterns. Far below, the shattered ice on a lochan resembled a jigsaw puzzle or crazy paving and all around my feet were a myriad of mosses, lichens and other mountain plants in so many different shades of green. We ascended to SGURR NAN EACH, ‘peak of the horses’ (923m). Horses, which ran free on the hills, used to be of some importance in the Highland economy and there are several references to horse mountains throughout Scotland.
The Norse word hross is found throughout the Western Isles and the Vikings may have introduced some of their own horse breeds to local people. No horses today but great views across to the familiar Fionn Bheinn and Loch Fannich as we ambled along the ridge. By late afternoon we needed to descend to make camp for the night. This we did down a seemingly vertical heather and tufted grass slope – thank goodness for walking poles – until we reached a suitable area by a stream. What aids recovery? Hot, tired feet cooled in a burn, big platefuls of pasta and buckets of tea!
The following morning heralded a beautiful spring day – sun, clear blue sky and a gently caressing breeze to keep us cool. As I stuck my head out of the tent, about 40 geese passed overhead, chattering away to each other – perhaps they were arguing about who should be squadron leader today. We found a good but very zig-zagged stalker’s path for our next ascent which eventually delivered us on MEALL GORM, ‘blue hill’ (949m). The blue indicated in gorm possibly derives from the fact that hills seen at a distance through the atmosphere take on a bluish tinge. Consider this Gaelic proverb:
“Is gorm na cruic a tha fada bhuainn”
“Blue are the hills that are far from us”
Our next Munro in the bag was AN COILEACHAN, ‘the little cock’ (923m). This refers to the other classic bird of the tops, the grouse, which always takes you by surprise when it bursts out from the heather. However, none joined us for lunch after which we strolled along the broad ridge towards Sgurr Mor. Shimmering lochans lay to the right of the ridge and we were privileged to have magnificent views of Ben Wyvis to the east and Beinn Eighe to the north-west. We skirted around Sgurr Mor over soft snow and headed for BEINN LIATH MHOR FANNICH ‘big grey hill of Fannich’ (954m), a snowy and bouldery ascent which was challenging at the end of a long day but well worth the panoramic views. We descended and camped in the snowy hills at 850m and watched the sun set on a magical day.
Amazingly, there was no wind during the night at this altitude. We awoke early to a bright, cold morning and having slept in the shadow of Sgurr Mor we were now heading for its mighty summit. Much of the ascent was on hard snow but we were able to use the encrusted footfalls of yesterday’s walkers as steps to the top.
Consequently, we arrived on SGURR MOR, ‘big peak’ (1110m!!) before 9.00am – a good feeling! This is the highest of the Fannaichs and its lofty conical peak with extraordinary snow overhangs is crowned with a large and magnificent stone cairn. Naturally, a tricky, steep, rocky, snowy descent followed – you don’t want to put a foot wrong here, especially with a large backpack. The terrain on the next ridge necessitated the use of crampons and so we crunched our way across glistening white snow under a canopy of sunshine and azure skies, arriving on SGURR NAN CLACH GEALA, ‘peak of the white stones’ (1093m). It is so rare to have perfect weather conditions on these high tops and we couldn’t believe we were looking across to some of the greats – Liathach, An Teallach, Slioch, Ben Wyvis – a memorable occasion.
Reluctantly we descended and headed for our final Munro, MEALL A’ CHRASGAIDH, ‘hill of the crossing’, (934m), possibly so-called because it guards the northern entrance to a hill-pass that allows travellers and herds to cross the Fannaich ridge from north to south. Our final descent to Allt Leac a Bhailaich was UNBELIEVEABLY steep and I’m sure I heard both knees go twang. However, we were rewarded with a cooling paddle in the river. We headed back to the car, passing the derelict stone cottage and boathouse on the shores of Loch a’ Bhraoin, its waters a brilliant blue on this glorious spring day. We calculated a total ascent of 11,000 ft, total distance, 26miles and total walking time, 25 hours. With our souls fully enriched by our mini expedition, a beer in the Aultguish Inn celebrated 3 spectacular days in the company of 9 superb mountains.
Moira Harris
The walk is well signposted, and starts following the path under the bridge on the north side of the river. Just after the bridge the path climbs steeply through the trees, until it reaches a track.
When on the track turn right, and then right again, following the yellow marked pole. After a short walk you can have a rest on the bench, which has nice views of the river. Now the path continues downhill, following the riverbank and reaching Little Garve and an arched bridge (built in 1752 as part of a military road from Contin to Poolewe). Cross the bridge and turn right into the woodland making your way back to the car park.
At a certain point the path looks like it is turning to the right on the grassy edge of the river, but you have to follow the one straight ahead. This part of the path has been recently resurfaced so it is a little muddy in places. You will pass under the bridge once again but on the other side of the river, and then take the steps back to the car. Pay attention to the steps especially on the way back as most of them are carved in the rock and can get pretty slippery when wet.
For more information and a map online go to:
http://tinyurl.com/2uejsa9
which is a page on www.walkhighlands.co.uk
Laura Gauna
Foot-loose and fancy-free in the Fannaichs
The second weekend of April. The forecast for the hills was promising – good visibility, no cloud, little wind and something not seen very much in these parts during the first quarter of the year, SUN! Our previous attempts to reach the summits of all nine Fannaichs had been thwarted by bad weather and forgotten crampons. This chain of spectacular Ross-shire mountains takes its collective name from the large loch, Fainich in Gaelic, which laps at their southern feet. I’m not sure of the origin of the name. I believe there is a Gaelic word fà n implying a gentle slope but these Munros have a majestic upward sweep and bearing. There is also a Gaelic word, fannaich, which means to grow faint – very apt when you’re gasping for breath as you approach the tops! While there are lovely day walks to be enjoyed in these hills, we decided to camp wild for two nights, so set off with our homes on our backs (thankfully I didn’t carry the tent). The start of the walk on the right hand side of the A832, 3 miles before Braemore Junction, there is a clearly marked path through the Inverbroom Estate. Look out for the large, stand alone wrought-iron gate with no fencing – a bit Harry Potterish. With a little drizzle but mild and windless conditions we headed up into the Western Fannaichs, looking back on beautiful views of Loch a’ Bhraoin as we ascended south on a stalker’s path high up the glen to the pass. Early morning, so gentle mists rose and fell around us, with views tantalisingly revealed then quickly concealed. A lovely ridge walk guided us to our first Munro, A’ CHAILLEACH, ‘the old woman’ (999m). I wonder who inspired the naming of this mountain?
Eventually, clearing conditions revealed our way forward and we were soon heading east and steeply ascending over rocky outcrops and along the ridge. Now there was snow under foot, easy enough to walk on and providing some fantastic architectural overhangs from the ridge edge. We arrived on SGURR BREAC, ‘speckled peak’ (1000m) and were welcomed by 4 ptarmigan who weren’t bothered by our presence. Lunch and a brew in the sun prepared us for a long ridge descent eastwards followed by the inevitable gruelling ascent over undulating ground to another stalker’s path. Once breathing had returned to normal and the heart wasn’t banging against the ribcage, the reward was a fantastic panorama of Fannaichs and hills beyond, with a spectacular backdrop of clear blue sky and sunshine.
As we ascended to the next top I was aware of nature’s amazing patterns. Far below, the shattered ice on a lochan resembled a jigsaw puzzle or crazy paving and all around my feet were a myriad of mosses, lichens and other mountain plants in so many different shades of green. We ascended to SGURR NAN EACH, ‘peak of the horses’ (923m). Horses, which ran free on the hills, used to be of some importance in the Highland economy and there are several references to horse mountains throughout Scotland.
The Norse word hross is found throughout the Western Isles and the Vikings may have introduced some of their own horse breeds to local people. No horses today but great views across to the familiar Fionn Bheinn and Loch Fannich as we ambled along the ridge. By late afternoon we needed to descend to make camp for the night. This we did down a seemingly vertical heather and tufted grass slope – thank goodness for walking poles – until we reached a suitable area by a stream. What aids recovery? Hot, tired feet cooled in a burn, big platefuls of pasta and buckets of tea!
The following morning heralded a beautiful spring day – sun, clear blue sky and a gently caressing breeze to keep us cool. As I stuck my head out of the tent, about 40 geese passed overhead, chattering away to each other – perhaps they were arguing about who should be squadron leader today. We found a good but very zig-zagged stalker’s path for our next ascent which eventually delivered us on MEALL GORM, ‘blue hill’ (949m). The blue indicated in gorm possibly derives from the fact that hills seen at a distance through the atmosphere take on a bluish tinge. Consider this Gaelic proverb:
“Is gorm na cruic a tha fada bhuainn”
“Blue are the hills that are far from us”
Our next Munro in the bag was AN COILEACHAN, ‘the little cock’ (923m). This refers to the other classic bird of the tops, the grouse, which always takes you by surprise when it bursts out from the heather. However, none joined us for lunch after which we strolled along the broad ridge towards Sgurr Mor. Shimmering lochans lay to the right of the ridge and we were privileged to have magnificent views of Ben Wyvis to the east and Beinn Eighe to the north-west. We skirted around Sgurr Mor over soft snow and headed for BEINN LIATH MHOR FANNICH ‘big grey hill of Fannich’ (954m), a snowy and bouldery ascent which was challenging at the end of a long day but well worth the panoramic views. We descended and camped in the snowy hills at 850m and watched the sun set on a magical day.
Amazingly, there was no wind during the night at this altitude. We awoke early to a bright, cold morning and having slept in the shadow of Sgurr Mor we were now heading for its mighty summit. Much of the ascent was on hard snow but we were able to use the encrusted footfalls of yesterday’s walkers as steps to the top.
Consequently, we arrived on SGURR MOR, ‘big peak’ (1110m!!) before 9.00am – a good feeling! This is the highest of the Fannaichs and its lofty conical peak with extraordinary snow overhangs is crowned with a large and magnificent stone cairn. Naturally, a tricky, steep, rocky, snowy descent followed – you don’t want to put a foot wrong here, especially with a large backpack. The terrain on the next ridge necessitated the use of crampons and so we crunched our way across glistening white snow under a canopy of sunshine and azure skies, arriving on SGURR NAN CLACH GEALA, ‘peak of the white stones’ (1093m). It is so rare to have perfect weather conditions on these high tops and we couldn’t believe we were looking across to some of the greats – Liathach, An Teallach, Slioch, Ben Wyvis – a memorable occasion.
Reluctantly we descended and headed for our final Munro, MEALL A’ CHRASGAIDH, ‘hill of the crossing’, (934m), possibly so-called because it guards the northern entrance to a hill-pass that allows travellers and herds to cross the Fannaich ridge from north to south. Our final descent to Allt Leac a Bhailaich was UNBELIEVEABLY steep and I’m sure I heard both knees go twang. However, we were rewarded with a cooling paddle in the river. We headed back to the car, passing the derelict stone cottage and boathouse on the shores of Loch a’ Bhraoin, its waters a brilliant blue on this glorious spring day. We calculated a total ascent of 11,000 ft, total distance, 26miles and total walking time, 25 hours. With our souls fully enriched by our mini expedition, a beer in the Aultguish Inn celebrated 3 spectacular days in the company of 9 superb mountains.
Moira Harris
Little Garve river walk
This is a relatively easy walk, with a short steep start. You can park at Silverbridge, just north of Little Garve. The walk is well signposted, and starts following the path under the bridge on the north side of the river. Just after the bridge the path climbs steeply through the trees, until it reaches a track.
When on the track turn right, and then right again, following the yellow marked pole. After a short walk you can have a rest on the bench, which has nice views of the river. Now the path continues downhill, following the riverbank and reaching Little Garve and an arched bridge (built in 1752 as part of a military road from Contin to Poolewe). Cross the bridge and turn right into the woodland making your way back to the car park.
At a certain point the path looks like it is turning to the right on the grassy edge of the river, but you have to follow the one straight ahead. This part of the path has been recently resurfaced so it is a little muddy in places. You will pass under the bridge once again but on the other side of the river, and then take the steps back to the car. Pay attention to the steps especially on the way back as most of them are carved in the rock and can get pretty slippery when wet.
For more information and a map online go to:
http://tinyurl.com/2uejsa9
which is a page on www.walkhighlands.co.uk
Laura Gauna
Garve and Lochluichart SWRI
The handcraft show:
The Ross-shire Federation SWRI handcraft show is held in Dingwall every year, with probably hundreds of people taking part.
This year it was held in the National Hotel on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th April. The show covers a wide range of interests, as well as the expected knitting, sewing, and crochet, there is photography, and art, toy making and items using the computer.
Young people from primary upwards, and male relatives contributed interesting exhibits.
The quality of entries was very impressive, and well worth going to see, even if I had not put any thing in, I had certainly not given myself time to see and enjoy everything on show.
I also underestimated the amount of people there would be, next year I will get there earlier.
Garve and Lochluichart SWRI did very well, I think better than we expected, winning the Ross-shire Federation points trophy runner-up cup, the Jenny Wade Quaich for the best exhibit for tourism, and the
Lady MacEwan Trophy for the person gaining the highest points.
Meeting 25 March:
The meeting was opened by the president Jennifer Haslam who welcomed the speaker Amy Gentles, of British Waterways. Amy gave an interesting talk on the Caledonian canal. The history of how it was made, and the people who built it, and its use for trade, in getting goods from one place to another. It's now mainly used for recreation. The locks were a marvel of engineering allowing transport in a difficult area. Her talk was enjoyed by all, and we were encouraged to try one of the boat trips.
The hostess was Bertha Logie, her co-hostess unable to attend, but she was helped by willing volunteers.
Competitions:
Easter Bonnet - 1. Pat MacDonald, 2. Jeannet Dickinson, 3 Jennifer Haslam.
Vase - 1. Jean Bailey, 2. Ilsa Jack, 3. Jeannet Dickinson.
Meeting 29 April:
President Mrs Haslam opened the meeting and congratulated every one on the good results of the handicraft show. It is the first time Garve and Lochluichart have won so much silver in this event. We will soon be working out how to improve on that next year.
The speaker who was booked to give a demonstration was unable come this time, but will arrange an evening later in the year. Instead we had an informal craft evening, with instructions from Jeannette Dickinson, while swapping ideas and patterns for future use.
The competition for “What is it” was won by Ilsa Jack with a tie press, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson with a knitting belt, and 3rd Jennifer Haslam who did not know herself what it was,but will find out!
The egg cup competition - 1. Jennifer Haslam, 2. Pat MacDonald, 3.Doreen Young.
The next meeting is the AGM, on 27 May.
Helen Grainge
The Ross-shire Federation SWRI handcraft show is held in Dingwall every year, with probably hundreds of people taking part.
This year it was held in the National Hotel on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th April. The show covers a wide range of interests, as well as the expected knitting, sewing, and crochet, there is photography, and art, toy making and items using the computer.
Young people from primary upwards, and male relatives contributed interesting exhibits.
The quality of entries was very impressive, and well worth going to see, even if I had not put any thing in, I had certainly not given myself time to see and enjoy everything on show.
I also underestimated the amount of people there would be, next year I will get there earlier.
Garve and Lochluichart SWRI did very well, I think better than we expected, winning the Ross-shire Federation points trophy runner-up cup, the Jenny Wade Quaich for the best exhibit for tourism, and the
Lady MacEwan Trophy for the person gaining the highest points.
Meeting 25 March:
The meeting was opened by the president Jennifer Haslam who welcomed the speaker Amy Gentles, of British Waterways. Amy gave an interesting talk on the Caledonian canal. The history of how it was made, and the people who built it, and its use for trade, in getting goods from one place to another. It's now mainly used for recreation. The locks were a marvel of engineering allowing transport in a difficult area. Her talk was enjoyed by all, and we were encouraged to try one of the boat trips.
The hostess was Bertha Logie, her co-hostess unable to attend, but she was helped by willing volunteers.
Competitions:
Easter Bonnet - 1. Pat MacDonald, 2. Jeannet Dickinson, 3 Jennifer Haslam.
Vase - 1. Jean Bailey, 2. Ilsa Jack, 3. Jeannet Dickinson.
Meeting 29 April:
President Mrs Haslam opened the meeting and congratulated every one on the good results of the handicraft show. It is the first time Garve and Lochluichart have won so much silver in this event. We will soon be working out how to improve on that next year.
The speaker who was booked to give a demonstration was unable come this time, but will arrange an evening later in the year. Instead we had an informal craft evening, with instructions from Jeannette Dickinson, while swapping ideas and patterns for future use.
The competition for “What is it” was won by Ilsa Jack with a tie press, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson with a knitting belt, and 3rd Jennifer Haslam who did not know herself what it was,but will find out!
The egg cup competition - 1. Jennifer Haslam, 2. Pat MacDonald, 3.Doreen Young.
The next meeting is the AGM, on 27 May.
Helen Grainge
From the Manse
St Patrick’s Day has become a huge celebration throughout the world. Each country has its own patron saint and the saint’s day is often holiday and a chance for a party.
In Scotland we celebrate St Andrew’s day remembering the disciple of Jesus but he never came here. There are other saints who actually lived and worked in this land who have a big part in our history.
St Ninian in the south west, St Mungo in Glasgow, St Blane in Stirlingshire or St Columba of Iona . These early Christians brought the story of Jesus Christ to this country. Local churches are often named after the saint who had a special association with an area.
In our area St Mael Rubha is the one who started many of the Christian churches. He is not remembered much now but after Columba he probably had the greatest impact in the West Highlands in spreading the story of Jesus Christ. Born in Derry he set off to Scotland and the age of thirty in 671.
After working in Argyll, it was to Applecross he came to settle to build his chief church and monastery. His influence was wide extending to Skye and Lewis as well as to the north. The kirk on the island at Contin was started by him, and hereabouts he is remembered in the name Loch Maree. Indeed, the well on Isle Maree was supposed to have healing powers. Over time the well of became quite famous, enough that in 1877, Queen Victoria visited it and left an offering. John Whittier, the poet, noted the occasion with the following verse:
"And whoso bathes therein his brow
With care or madness burning,
Feels once again his healthful thought
And sense of peace returning."
Mael Rubha either died in Applecross, or was killed by the Vikings by the Naver. So much is shrouded in legend.
What is clear is that in those far off times folk felt the story of Jesus was something of such importance they would set out and leave home to tell others in distant lands.
There is a little prayer of thanksgiving I often use :
“We remember with gratitude and wonder
those courageous souls
who first brought the Gospel to our shores,
and braved wild northern seas,
defied rocks and skerries,
crossed moorland and mountain,
to offer Christ to our ancient peoples”
We in our generation have to pass on the good news of Christ.
The tools are different - computer and print instead of pen and parchment. Microphones and broadcasts instead of the power of the human voice alone.
But the good news is the same: that we matter to God and he has sent his Son to be our Saviour.
A final question about local saints:
“...does anyone know where the church, dedicated to St Finnan, at
Garve, was?”
Rev Fraser Stewart
In Scotland we celebrate St Andrew’s day remembering the disciple of Jesus but he never came here. There are other saints who actually lived and worked in this land who have a big part in our history.
St Ninian in the south west, St Mungo in Glasgow, St Blane in Stirlingshire or St Columba of Iona . These early Christians brought the story of Jesus Christ to this country. Local churches are often named after the saint who had a special association with an area.
In our area St Mael Rubha is the one who started many of the Christian churches. He is not remembered much now but after Columba he probably had the greatest impact in the West Highlands in spreading the story of Jesus Christ. Born in Derry he set off to Scotland and the age of thirty in 671.
After working in Argyll, it was to Applecross he came to settle to build his chief church and monastery. His influence was wide extending to Skye and Lewis as well as to the north. The kirk on the island at Contin was started by him, and hereabouts he is remembered in the name Loch Maree. Indeed, the well on Isle Maree was supposed to have healing powers. Over time the well of became quite famous, enough that in 1877, Queen Victoria visited it and left an offering. John Whittier, the poet, noted the occasion with the following verse:
"And whoso bathes therein his brow
With care or madness burning,
Feels once again his healthful thought
And sense of peace returning."
Mael Rubha either died in Applecross, or was killed by the Vikings by the Naver. So much is shrouded in legend.
What is clear is that in those far off times folk felt the story of Jesus was something of such importance they would set out and leave home to tell others in distant lands.
There is a little prayer of thanksgiving I often use :
“We remember with gratitude and wonder
those courageous souls
who first brought the Gospel to our shores,
and braved wild northern seas,
defied rocks and skerries,
crossed moorland and mountain,
to offer Christ to our ancient peoples”
We in our generation have to pass on the good news of Christ.
The tools are different - computer and print instead of pen and parchment. Microphones and broadcasts instead of the power of the human voice alone.
But the good news is the same: that we matter to God and he has sent his Son to be our Saviour.
A final question about local saints:
“...does anyone know where the church, dedicated to St Finnan, at
Garve, was?”
Rev Fraser Stewart
Introduction to dowsing - evening event
This sounds interesting - an introductory/taster evening to the art of dowsing, by the British Society of Dowsers, working with the Human Energy Field (HEF) commonly known as the AURA.
Organised by Mark Harris the event takes place on the 26 June at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, Achnasheen.
Mark tells me they will cover a brief history of dowsing and it’s uses, models of how dowsing works, uses, tools, practical dowsing exercises with rods and pendulums, Human Energy Field and High Sense Perception (HSP), Chakras-measuring spin/rotation and shape and basic meanings.
Tutors are trained dowsers, members of the British Society of Dowsers, and have trained Energetic Cellular Healers based on the work of Barbara Brennan (Brennan Science Healing) the author of “Hands of Light” and “Light Emerging”.
Evening starts at 7pm (until 9pm), and admission is free, or by donation to the Friends of Highland Rhuematology unit.
For further details contact Mark Harris on 0782 444 901.
Jackie
Organised by Mark Harris the event takes place on the 26 June at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, Achnasheen.
Mark tells me they will cover a brief history of dowsing and it’s uses, models of how dowsing works, uses, tools, practical dowsing exercises with rods and pendulums, Human Energy Field and High Sense Perception (HSP), Chakras-measuring spin/rotation and shape and basic meanings.
Tutors are trained dowsers, members of the British Society of Dowsers, and have trained Energetic Cellular Healers based on the work of Barbara Brennan (Brennan Science Healing) the author of “Hands of Light” and “Light Emerging”.
Evening starts at 7pm (until 9pm), and admission is free, or by donation to the Friends of Highland Rhuematology unit.
For further details contact Mark Harris on 0782 444 901.
Jackie
In brief
* An appeal has gone out for a willing volunteer to wind up the mechanics of the Town Hall clock in Dingwall. In the past a local stonemason, Alex Brett, climbed the tower every week to wind what is possibly the last hand-wound clock in Scotland. Ring 01349 864424 to see if the position has been filled!
* After mentioning the promotion of "Green wool" in the last issue, I was interested to read about a designer cross-breed sheep which moults at Springtime and allegedly saves British farmers thousands of pounds a year in shearing costs. The breed is called, "Exlana", latin for "out of wool". Sheep shearing currently costs around £8.00 per sheep - not in the Highlands, I am told, £1.00 is nearer the mark.
* Dingwall Academy (B team) took first place with their production of The Laboratory by David Compton, at the Youth Festival of One Act Plays. At the end of March they went on to win the HIGHLAND DIVISIONAL FINAL and will now compete in the National Youth Final on June 19th in Dingwall Academy. Congratulations also the (Grown-ups) Dingwall Players for reaching the Highland Divisional Final.
* Classification for rivers and lochs, developing river basin management plans, identifying problems, implementing solutions and improving the environment - thus a Senior Hydromorphologist described his duties. He is employed by SEPA and says his job "puts to bed the outrageous lie that it is impossible to get a job directly related to a Geography degree."
* Some of us hear much about the Curriculum (hope I spelt that right) for Excellence. The truth is that most PRIMARY schools are already doing a lot of what would be defined as just that! "The problem really comes in HIGH school, with its exam structure and strict demarcations between subjects." So said the newly appointed Executive Director of the Scottish Parent Teacher Council (SPTC). She feels there is a danger of being too caught up in measuring attainment and placing too low a value on wider achievements.
* An expert has warned that, if this Winter's conditions become the norm, avalanches will have to be considered a hazard to our structures, roads and railways. The SAIS (Sports Avalanche Informative Service) was called for the first time to help Network Rail clear a railway line after four avalanches blocked it.
* The Dingwall & Highland Auction Mart are going to challenge the £11,500 additional rates which they are facing. If they are unsuccessful they will be forced to increase commission charges to cover their costs.
* A Highland Hill Farm, 1050 ft. above sea level, listed broken fences, damaged buildings, rotting vegetation and no grass as just some of the results of almost twelve weeks of snow cover. Experience shows that a loss of Summer grass yield will affect next year's silage. Unfortunately our local farms also suffered and stock needed far more extra feed than usual.
* A group of climbers reported the theft of a generator weighing in at 168 lbs. The thieves must have gone to a great deal of trouble as the fast flowing River Nevis would have to be crossed and a 1.5 mile long narrow path through a gorge negotiated to reach the car park in Upper Glen Nevis. Maybe a wind turbine would have proved less tempting?
* RSPB's Eyes to the Skies team monitoring 14 red kite chicks hope that longer spells of daylight will resolve technical problems with the solar-powered satellite tags which are used to tag them. Several local primary schools have been able to track their very own adopted kite. Of the original 14 chicks two have perished. One fell from the nest before fledging and the other died after a vehicle collision.
* School can sometimes be a difficult place for children for a variety of reasons. The Scottish Government aims to raise parent's awareness of Additional Support for Learning and the help that is available.
For example, when the move from primary to secondary school is found hard, if families are going through change or experiencing medical problems. The JUST ASK campaign seeks to highlight the wide range of issues for which help can be provided.
* Dingwall fans of Ross County observed the best traditions of football support when their team won the semi-final game with Celtic to reach the first ever cup final for the Highlands. The Baker's shop produced a special range of cakes and biscuits and a Butcher served up "staggie" venison burgers - recognising the team's nickname!
* Research has showed that average-speed cameras in Scotland have led to a dramatic fall in speeding offences. Police regard the cameras as life-saving. The A9, from Perth to Inverness, is one of the roads likely to be included in the next roll out of the so-called "yellow vultures".
* An attempt to bring back the Scottish Wildcat from the brink of extinction is to be launched this year. Tens of thousands of pounds have been contributed by ex-pat Scots, living in the US, towards the project. It will begin in Ardnamurchan, the most westerly point on the British Mainland. Vets will neuter any feral cats caught in the meat-baited box traps on the remote peninsula. Someone tells me this is already being done.....interestingly...(for vets?).
Pam Morrison
* After mentioning the promotion of "Green wool" in the last issue, I was interested to read about a designer cross-breed sheep which moults at Springtime and allegedly saves British farmers thousands of pounds a year in shearing costs. The breed is called, "Exlana", latin for "out of wool". Sheep shearing currently costs around £8.00 per sheep - not in the Highlands, I am told, £1.00 is nearer the mark.
* Dingwall Academy (B team) took first place with their production of The Laboratory by David Compton, at the Youth Festival of One Act Plays. At the end of March they went on to win the HIGHLAND DIVISIONAL FINAL and will now compete in the National Youth Final on June 19th in Dingwall Academy. Congratulations also the (Grown-ups) Dingwall Players for reaching the Highland Divisional Final.
* Classification for rivers and lochs, developing river basin management plans, identifying problems, implementing solutions and improving the environment - thus a Senior Hydromorphologist described his duties. He is employed by SEPA and says his job "puts to bed the outrageous lie that it is impossible to get a job directly related to a Geography degree."
* Some of us hear much about the Curriculum (hope I spelt that right) for Excellence. The truth is that most PRIMARY schools are already doing a lot of what would be defined as just that! "The problem really comes in HIGH school, with its exam structure and strict demarcations between subjects." So said the newly appointed Executive Director of the Scottish Parent Teacher Council (SPTC). She feels there is a danger of being too caught up in measuring attainment and placing too low a value on wider achievements.
* An expert has warned that, if this Winter's conditions become the norm, avalanches will have to be considered a hazard to our structures, roads and railways. The SAIS (Sports Avalanche Informative Service) was called for the first time to help Network Rail clear a railway line after four avalanches blocked it.
* The Dingwall & Highland Auction Mart are going to challenge the £11,500 additional rates which they are facing. If they are unsuccessful they will be forced to increase commission charges to cover their costs.
* A Highland Hill Farm, 1050 ft. above sea level, listed broken fences, damaged buildings, rotting vegetation and no grass as just some of the results of almost twelve weeks of snow cover. Experience shows that a loss of Summer grass yield will affect next year's silage. Unfortunately our local farms also suffered and stock needed far more extra feed than usual.
* A group of climbers reported the theft of a generator weighing in at 168 lbs. The thieves must have gone to a great deal of trouble as the fast flowing River Nevis would have to be crossed and a 1.5 mile long narrow path through a gorge negotiated to reach the car park in Upper Glen Nevis. Maybe a wind turbine would have proved less tempting?
* RSPB's Eyes to the Skies team monitoring 14 red kite chicks hope that longer spells of daylight will resolve technical problems with the solar-powered satellite tags which are used to tag them. Several local primary schools have been able to track their very own adopted kite. Of the original 14 chicks two have perished. One fell from the nest before fledging and the other died after a vehicle collision.
* School can sometimes be a difficult place for children for a variety of reasons. The Scottish Government aims to raise parent's awareness of Additional Support for Learning and the help that is available.
For example, when the move from primary to secondary school is found hard, if families are going through change or experiencing medical problems. The JUST ASK campaign seeks to highlight the wide range of issues for which help can be provided.
* Dingwall fans of Ross County observed the best traditions of football support when their team won the semi-final game with Celtic to reach the first ever cup final for the Highlands. The Baker's shop produced a special range of cakes and biscuits and a Butcher served up "staggie" venison burgers - recognising the team's nickname!
* Research has showed that average-speed cameras in Scotland have led to a dramatic fall in speeding offences. Police regard the cameras as life-saving. The A9, from Perth to Inverness, is one of the roads likely to be included in the next roll out of the so-called "yellow vultures".
* An attempt to bring back the Scottish Wildcat from the brink of extinction is to be launched this year. Tens of thousands of pounds have been contributed by ex-pat Scots, living in the US, towards the project. It will begin in Ardnamurchan, the most westerly point on the British Mainland. Vets will neuter any feral cats caught in the meat-baited box traps on the remote peninsula. Someone tells me this is already being done.....interestingly...(for vets?).
Pam Morrison
Garve & District Community Council Meeting April 6th 2010
The meeting was opened by Helen Grainge who explained that Uisdean Menzies, Vice Chairman, Sheree Grant, Secretary and Marion Taylor, Treasurer, had resigned from their posts.
Alec MacKenzie and Jennifer Haslam sent their apologies as being unable to attend.
This meant there was not enough council members according to the constitution, to continue, making it necessary to hold an election for a new community council.
Helen Grainge then announced her resignation, and handed over the well-attended meeting to Robbie Bain, to chair - the meeting was then declared a public meeting.
The guest speakers from Highland Council Roads Department, and Transerve were introduced.
They both explained what they were trying to do to improve roads and road safety, then answered questions from the public. It was an interesting and informative session.
Robbie Bain explained that a Community Council election could not be organised before the General Election had taken place. But that adverts would be placed for people in the community to come forward to be elected as councillors.
Helen Grainge, former chairperson, Garve and District Community Council.
Alec MacKenzie and Jennifer Haslam sent their apologies as being unable to attend.
This meant there was not enough council members according to the constitution, to continue, making it necessary to hold an election for a new community council.
Helen Grainge then announced her resignation, and handed over the well-attended meeting to Robbie Bain, to chair - the meeting was then declared a public meeting.
The guest speakers from Highland Council Roads Department, and Transerve were introduced.
They both explained what they were trying to do to improve roads and road safety, then answered questions from the public. It was an interesting and informative session.
Robbie Bain explained that a Community Council election could not be organised before the General Election had taken place. But that adverts would be placed for people in the community to come forward to be elected as councillors.
Helen Grainge, former chairperson, Garve and District Community Council.
Letter from Highland Council: The Development Plan Scheme 2010
The Highland Council Development Plan Scheme - Spring 2010, represents a step forwards informing many more people about the way in which land use plans are drawn up (which set out what can be built, and where and when). It is the intention to involve a broad range of organisations and the public in making these plans.
The document sets out:
* a timetable of producing a land use plans for the Highlands (including the Highland-wide local development plan and Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan); and
* how you can become inolved planning for the future in your area
and is available to be viewed online at: www.highland.gov.uk/developmentplans
The Highland Council would like to hear your views.
Contact details:
Phone: 01463 702261
Email: devplans@highland.gov.uk
The document sets out:
* a timetable of producing a land use plans for the Highlands (including the Highland-wide local development plan and Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan); and
* how you can become inolved planning for the future in your area
and is available to be viewed online at: www.highland.gov.uk/developmentplans
The Highland Council would like to hear your views.
Contact details:
Phone: 01463 702261
Email: devplans@highland.gov.uk
Wester Ross Postbus Replacement
From Robbie Bain 12 May:
Please see letter and timetable for options that are being considered for the service to replace the post bus in Wester Ross. Please forward any comments to Bob Edwards
(Email: bob.edwards@highland.gov.uk).
Robbie Bain, Ward Manager (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer & Lochalsh)
Chief Executive's Service,
The Highland Council,
Council Offices,
High Street,
Dingwall, IV15 9QN
Letter from Bob Edwards:
WESTER ROSS POSTBUS REPLACEMENT
The period during which the temporary replacement of the withdrawn post bus services has been provided is now drawing to a close and I am writing to inform you of the proposed replacement for these services.
The temporary replacement service featured a significant degree of coverage by both scheduled and demand responsive services.
A tender for services to replace the post bus was offered but the only response was significantly beyond the budget available.
The proposal is to amend our current contract with DMK to provide additional journeys from Strathcarron to Achnasheen on 2 weekdays and provide a new service between Applecross and Strathcarron operated by Lochcarron Garage. It could be that this service is reduced to one day per week during the winter period.
Option 1 provides for a short day in Lochcarron on Mondays and Wednesdays as well as connections to the train at Achnasheen.
Option 2 provides journeys from Applecross to Lochcarron or Achnasheen every day except Friday but with a longer stay in Lochcarron.
Both options can be viewed/printed/downloaded here http://tinyurl.com/3xrdgg5
If you have any suggestions or comments could you please supply them to me as soon as possible.
I look forward to your early response.
R V EDWARDS
Senior Transport Officer
Transport, Environmental and Community Services
The Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702500
www.highland.gov.uk
Please see letter and timetable for options that are being considered for the service to replace the post bus in Wester Ross. Please forward any comments to Bob Edwards
(Email: bob.edwards@highland.gov.uk).
Robbie Bain, Ward Manager (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer & Lochalsh)
Chief Executive's Service,
The Highland Council,
Council Offices,
High Street,
Dingwall, IV15 9QN
Letter from Bob Edwards:
WESTER ROSS POSTBUS REPLACEMENT
The period during which the temporary replacement of the withdrawn post bus services has been provided is now drawing to a close and I am writing to inform you of the proposed replacement for these services.
The temporary replacement service featured a significant degree of coverage by both scheduled and demand responsive services.
A tender for services to replace the post bus was offered but the only response was significantly beyond the budget available.
The proposal is to amend our current contract with DMK to provide additional journeys from Strathcarron to Achnasheen on 2 weekdays and provide a new service between Applecross and Strathcarron operated by Lochcarron Garage. It could be that this service is reduced to one day per week during the winter period.
Option 1 provides for a short day in Lochcarron on Mondays and Wednesdays as well as connections to the train at Achnasheen.
Option 2 provides journeys from Applecross to Lochcarron or Achnasheen every day except Friday but with a longer stay in Lochcarron.
Both options can be viewed/printed/downloaded here http://tinyurl.com/3xrdgg5
If you have any suggestions or comments could you please supply them to me as soon as possible.
I look forward to your early response.
R V EDWARDS
Senior Transport Officer
Transport, Environmental and Community Services
The Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702500
www.highland.gov.uk
Invitation from Marie Curie Cancer Care
Sign up for the charity’s Blooming Great Tea Party celebrations this summer?
We’re inviting people to hold their own tea parties any time between 12 June and 12 July to help raise money for the charity. Whether it’s a garden party, afternoon tea or a simple gathering of friends for a cuppa, holding a Blooming Great Tea Party couldn’t be simpler. Every tea party, however big or small will help more Marie Curie Nurses to provide free care for terminally ill people in their own homes in the Highlands.
Too sign up for a free Blooming Great Tea Party fundraising pack bursting with fabulous ideas to help create the perfect party call 08700 340 040 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty
Blooming Great Tea Party
Marie Curie Cancer Care
The Gateway
1a Millburn Road
Inverness. IV2 3PX
We’re inviting people to hold their own tea parties any time between 12 June and 12 July to help raise money for the charity. Whether it’s a garden party, afternoon tea or a simple gathering of friends for a cuppa, holding a Blooming Great Tea Party couldn’t be simpler. Every tea party, however big or small will help more Marie Curie Nurses to provide free care for terminally ill people in their own homes in the Highlands.
Too sign up for a free Blooming Great Tea Party fundraising pack bursting with fabulous ideas to help create the perfect party call 08700 340 040 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty
Blooming Great Tea Party
Marie Curie Cancer Care
The Gateway
1a Millburn Road
Inverness. IV2 3PX
Traffic delays on the A835 from June
Transerv Scotland have announced that they are proposing to undertake carriageway maintenance on the A835, during June.
This will be between Blackbridge and Aultguish pumping station.
More information should appear on their website soon:
www.scotlandtranserv.co.uk
This will be between Blackbridge and Aultguish pumping station.
More information should appear on their website soon:
www.scotlandtranserv.co.uk
Out and About: diary of markets, fairs and events
May through to July
May
Tu 25
Poolewe Market, Village Hall 10.00 - 2.30
Th 27
Kinlochewe Market, Village Hall 10.30 - 12.30
SWRI meeting, Garve Village Hall
Fri 28
Lochcarron Market
Strathgarve Primary fundraiser car wash 10.00 - 2.00
Sa 29
Mind and Body Fair plus Street Fair - British Legion, Dingwall
June
Tu 1
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
GDCC election - nominations close at 5pm.
We 2
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
Th 3
Kinlochewe Market, Village Hall 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 4
Applecross Producers Market - Village Hall 10.00 - 1.00
Sa 5
Strathpeffer Village Market, Strathpeffer Community Centre 9.30 - 12.30
Indoor Car Boot fundraiser, Achnasheen Village Hall 11-2
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
Tu 8
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
The Outside Track (Canadian, Scottish, Irish music), Gairloch
Community Hall 7.30 £8/£6
We 9
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
Th 10
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 11
GDCC ballot papers posted to voters
Scottish Ensemble, Gairloch Community Hall 7.30 £8/£6
Chas (of Chas and Dave) and His Band, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 12
Dingwall Farmers' Market, High Street 9.00 - 2.30
Tu 15
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
Sa 12
Victorian Market Day, Strathpeffer Square
Scottish Ensemble, Strathpeffer Pavilion 3.00
Th 17
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 18
Fiona Mackenzie (Singer/Songwriter), Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Applecross Producers Market, Village Hall 10.00 - 1.00
Strathgarve Primary recycling day 10.00 - 2.00
Sa 19
Strathpeffer Village Market, Strathpeffer Community Centre 9.30 - 12.30
Marymas Medieval Fair, Inverness 11 - 5
Su 20
Tain Vintage Rally
Tu 22
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
We 23
A&G newsletter meeting, Achnasheen Village Hall, 7.30
Spirit of Django (jazz guitar), Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Th 24
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
GDCC election - ballot closes
Fr 25
Lochcarron Market
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
GDCC election - results
Emergency First Aid at Work, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, 9.15 - 5.15
Sa 26
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Arts, Crafts and Gifts fair, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, Achnasheen 11.00 - 4.00
Garve Car Boot Sale, Garve Hotel, 10.00 - 2.00
Introduction to dowsing, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, fundraiser for HRU, 7.00 - 9.00
Su 27
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Mo 28
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Tu 29
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
We 30
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
July
Th 1
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Quiz Night - Strathpeffer Pavilion (01997 420124 to reserve table, teams of 4) 8.00
Applecross Producers Market 10 - 1.00
Donnie Munro, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 3
Gairloch Highland Gathering, Little Sands Farm
Strathpeffer Village Market 9.30 - 12.30
Tu 6
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 10
Dingwall Farmers' Market 9.00 - 2.30
Tu 13
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 15
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 16
Applecross Producers Market 10 - 1
GDCC first meeting of new CC - by this date.
Sa 17
Strathpeffer Village Market 9.30 - 12.30
Lochcarron Highland Games, Attadale 11.30 - 5
Tu 20
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 22
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
James Grant (Scottish Singer/ Songwriter), Strathpeffer Pavilion
Sa 24
Applecross Highland Games 11 - 5
Tu 27
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 29
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 30
Lochcarron Producer’s day (Market) & Lochcarron Country Day, Kelso Farm 11 - 3
Sa 31
Strathconon Highland Games 11 - 6
Please contact the event organisers if you need more details about any of the above. Please remember that although we do our very best to ensure information is correct, we are human and mistakes happen, for which we apologise in advance.
List your event - it’s free! Email Moira at
mh.editorial@archnasheenandgarve.com
May
Tu 25
Poolewe Market, Village Hall 10.00 - 2.30
Th 27
Kinlochewe Market, Village Hall 10.30 - 12.30
SWRI meeting, Garve Village Hall
Fri 28
Lochcarron Market
Strathgarve Primary fundraiser car wash 10.00 - 2.00
Sa 29
Mind and Body Fair plus Street Fair - British Legion, Dingwall
June
Tu 1
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
GDCC election - nominations close at 5pm.
We 2
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
Th 3
Kinlochewe Market, Village Hall 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 4
Applecross Producers Market - Village Hall 10.00 - 1.00
Sa 5
Strathpeffer Village Market, Strathpeffer Community Centre 9.30 - 12.30
Indoor Car Boot fundraiser, Achnasheen Village Hall 11-2
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
Tu 8
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
The Outside Track (Canadian, Scottish, Irish music), Gairloch
Community Hall 7.30 £8/£6
We 9
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
Th 10
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 11
GDCC ballot papers posted to voters
Scottish Ensemble, Gairloch Community Hall 7.30 £8/£6
Chas (of Chas and Dave) and His Band, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 12
Dingwall Farmers' Market, High Street 9.00 - 2.30
Tu 15
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
Sa 12
Victorian Market Day, Strathpeffer Square
Scottish Ensemble, Strathpeffer Pavilion 3.00
Th 17
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 18
Fiona Mackenzie (Singer/Songwriter), Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Applecross Producers Market, Village Hall 10.00 - 1.00
Strathgarve Primary recycling day 10.00 - 2.00
Sa 19
Strathpeffer Village Market, Strathpeffer Community Centre 9.30 - 12.30
Marymas Medieval Fair, Inverness 11 - 5
Su 20
Tain Vintage Rally
Tu 22
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Peak Energy exercise class, Achnasheen Village Hall 7.30 - 8.30
We 23
A&G newsletter meeting, Achnasheen Village Hall, 7.30
Spirit of Django (jazz guitar), Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Th 24
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
GDCC election - ballot closes
Fr 25
Lochcarron Market
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
GDCC election - results
Emergency First Aid at Work, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, 9.15 - 5.15
Sa 26
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Arts, Crafts and Gifts fair, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, Achnasheen 11.00 - 4.00
Garve Car Boot Sale, Garve Hotel, 10.00 - 2.00
Introduction to dowsing, Ledgowan Lodge Hotel, fundraiser for HRU, 7.00 - 9.00
Su 27
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Mo 28
Art Exhibition, Poolewe Village Hall
Tu 29
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
We 30
Ceilidh, Poolewe Village Hall
July
Th 1
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Quiz Night - Strathpeffer Pavilion (01997 420124 to reserve table, teams of 4) 8.00
Applecross Producers Market 10 - 1.00
Donnie Munro, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 3
Gairloch Highland Gathering, Little Sands Farm
Strathpeffer Village Market 9.30 - 12.30
Tu 6
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Strathpeffer Pavilion 8.00
Sa 10
Dingwall Farmers' Market 9.00 - 2.30
Tu 13
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 15
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 16
Applecross Producers Market 10 - 1
GDCC first meeting of new CC - by this date.
Sa 17
Strathpeffer Village Market 9.30 - 12.30
Lochcarron Highland Games, Attadale 11.30 - 5
Tu 20
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 22
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
James Grant (Scottish Singer/ Songwriter), Strathpeffer Pavilion
Sa 24
Applecross Highland Games 11 - 5
Tu 27
Poolewe Market 10.00 - 2.30
Th 29
Kinlochewe Market 10.30 - 2.30
Fr 30
Lochcarron Producer’s day (Market) & Lochcarron Country Day, Kelso Farm 11 - 3
Sa 31
Strathconon Highland Games 11 - 6
Please contact the event organisers if you need more details about any of the above. Please remember that although we do our very best to ensure information is correct, we are human and mistakes happen, for which we apologise in advance.
List your event - it’s free! Email Moira at
mh.editorial@archnasheenandgarve.com
Garve and District Community Council: Election notice/call for nominations
As a result of the resignations at the last Community Council meeting, we are required to elect a new Community Council.
Please note that previous councillors will not be automatically re-elected - so please use the nomination form for anyone you’d like to see representing us on the Community Council.
If there’s someone you feel would do a great job for this community (and they are willing, of course!) - nominate them!
Ward Manager, Robbie Bain is our returning officer, and has provided the following timetable.
Nominations close:
Tuesday 1 June
Ballot papers posted to voters:
Friday 11 June
Ballot closes:
Thursday 24 June
Count & announcement of result:
Friday 25 June
First meeting of new community council: by Friday 16th July
In the event of any queries, please contact Robbie Bain, at:
Chief Executive's Service,
The Highland Council,
Council Offices,
High Street,
Dingwall, IV15 9QN.
Tel: 01349 868626
The nomination form can be found online at:
http://tinyurl.com/2vbq59s(print or download)
Please note that previous councillors will not be automatically re-elected - so please use the nomination form for anyone you’d like to see representing us on the Community Council.
If there’s someone you feel would do a great job for this community (and they are willing, of course!) - nominate them!
Ward Manager, Robbie Bain is our returning officer, and has provided the following timetable.
Nominations close:
Tuesday 1 June
Ballot papers posted to voters:
Friday 11 June
Ballot closes:
Thursday 24 June
Count & announcement of result:
Friday 25 June
First meeting of new community council: by Friday 16th July
In the event of any queries, please contact Robbie Bain, at:
Chief Executive's Service,
The Highland Council,
Council Offices,
High Street,
Dingwall, IV15 9QN.
Tel: 01349 868626
The nomination form can be found online at:
http://tinyurl.com/2vbq59s(print or download)
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