Macmillan Coffee Morning raises £1,652.93
This is the fantastic total raised at the Macmillan Coffee Morning this year. Every year the amount is up, but this year it is huge.
Many, many thanks to everyone who supported by baking, prizes, washing dishes, and in all sorts of ways, not forgetting all the money you all spent and donated.
Guess the weight of the cake was won by Margaret Liddle, who was spot on with her guess of 5lb 12 oz.
The raffle prizes were won by ticket holders from Dingwall to Achnasheen.
I hope everyone enjoyed the ‘event’ as much as Helen and I.
Just a footnote about my rubbish arithmetic, I got the provisional total wrong! The above was what the bank counted and I know they are better at counting than me!
THANKS, THANKS, AND THANKS AGAIN!
Margo
About Macmillan CAB
The Highland Macmillan CAB Partnership came into existence in 2004 following recognition by Macmillan Cancer Support that cancer patients and their families would benefit from additional non clinical advice to compliment their existing clinical support offered by Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialists. The project covers the whole of the Highland Region, from Caithness to Oban.
We adhere to the principles of the CAB and are members of Citizens Advice Scotland, so clients are assured of confidentiality and impartiality with all advice and support delivered free of charge.
The project commenced in 2004, based at Raigmore Hospital, where it remains today. It was recognised in 2008 that in order to best meet the needs of clients in Ross and Cromarty, there should be someone permanently based in the county. Consequently, I work from the Ross and Cromarty Citizens Advice Bureau in Dingwall for 3 days a week, from Tuesday to Thursday. My contact details are: Macmillan CAB, 4 Church Street, Dingwall IV15 9SB
I can also be contacted on 01349 860105 Monday to Friday.
Both Macmillan Cancer Support and Macmillan CAB are incredibly appreciative of all the fundraising activities undertaken to support our services. Without this support from the communities we try to serve, these services would not exist as Macmillan is very largely dependent upon public donations to survive.
Our initial referrals come through a number of sources: either directly from clients who have read or heard about our service, through Community or Hospital based nurses or Macmillan Clinical Specialist Nurses, or from other associated health professionals such as General Practitioners. Being based in Dingwall, I also work closely with Ross-shire CAB who offer additional specialist assistance with debt advice.
My initial contact with a client takes place wherever is most convenient for the client, usually a Home Visit. However, we frequently meet clients in the Bureau or fit a meeting around a hospital appointment at Raigmore Hospital. The majority of my works consists of income maximisation, debt and housing issues and other associated areas. When someone has been given a cancer diagnosis this can have a dramatic effect upon a client’s entire life. They will probably have to cease work for a period, and much of our work is associated with assisting people through what is called their cancer journey. This can consist of advising them of their entitlement to state benefits and other sources of support and assistance during this period. We are also here to offer advice to the client’s family and look at any support and assistance available to them as carers.
I would again like to reiterate how grateful I am for the fundraising efforts of the community. Without it we would simply not exist.
Peter Macintyre.
Rights Worker
Garve & Lochluichart SWRI
Meeting 30th September 2010
The meeting this month was in Garve Hotel where we held an all prize tombola for the residents at the hotel.
Members had collected or made all the prizes, and together set up and ran the tombola which the residents enjoyed and found it great fun.
This was the second year this has been used as an entertaining fund raising event.
The tea was supplied by the hotel and the meeting for business held in their vacant games room. Plans are being made for the next meeting when guests from other institutes are expected.
Meeting 28th October 2010
For the October meeting we were joined by SWRI members from Muir of Ord and Marybank.
The visitors were welcomed and the meeting was opened by our president, Mrs Jennifer Haslam.
The business was quickly dealt with before the talk by Mr Howie Firth. He gave us a brief history of Orkney from 390 million years ago, its travels to where it is now and why it looks the way it does. He talked about the peoples who have lived there from possibly 10,000 years ago up to the present, and stories of the worthies who lived there while he was a child growing up in Orkney.
It was a highly entertaining evening, finished off nicely by tea, with food brought by all the members.
Raffle, and the competitions: the knitted Bear was won by Jean Bailey, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson, for the fork 1st Berta Logie, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson.
Helen Grainge
Scottish Women's Rural Institutes
www.swri.org.uk
The meeting this month was in Garve Hotel where we held an all prize tombola for the residents at the hotel.
Members had collected or made all the prizes, and together set up and ran the tombola which the residents enjoyed and found it great fun.
This was the second year this has been used as an entertaining fund raising event.
The tea was supplied by the hotel and the meeting for business held in their vacant games room. Plans are being made for the next meeting when guests from other institutes are expected.
Meeting 28th October 2010
For the October meeting we were joined by SWRI members from Muir of Ord and Marybank.
The visitors were welcomed and the meeting was opened by our president, Mrs Jennifer Haslam.
The business was quickly dealt with before the talk by Mr Howie Firth. He gave us a brief history of Orkney from 390 million years ago, its travels to where it is now and why it looks the way it does. He talked about the peoples who have lived there from possibly 10,000 years ago up to the present, and stories of the worthies who lived there while he was a child growing up in Orkney.
It was a highly entertaining evening, finished off nicely by tea, with food brought by all the members.
Raffle, and the competitions: the knitted Bear was won by Jean Bailey, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson, for the fork 1st Berta Logie, 2nd Jeannette Dickinson.
Helen Grainge
Scottish Women's Rural Institutes
is one of the largest women's organisations in Scotland and boasts about 22,000 members. Members informally call the organisation the Rural.
There are lots of opportunities to get involved in SWRI: attend classes in crafts, go to cookery demonstrations, go to summer school, join a drama group, sing in a choir, take part in sport, go on a study tour at home or abroad, debate local issues, organise events or simply enjoy the friendship of fellow members at the monthly meeting.
There are lots of opportunities to get involved in SWRI: attend classes in crafts, go to cookery demonstrations, go to summer school, join a drama group, sing in a choir, take part in sport, go on a study tour at home or abroad, debate local issues, organise events or simply enjoy the friendship of fellow members at the monthly meeting.
www.swri.org.uk
From the Manse
Christmas Cards
There is a list of folks I know
All written in a book,
And every year at Christmas time
I go and take a look.
And that is when I realise that
These names are a part,
Not of the book they're written in
But of my very heart.
For each name stands for someone
Who has touched my life sometime,
And in that meeting they've become
The 'Rhythm of the Rhyme'.
I really feel I am composed
Of each remembered name,
My life is so much better
Than it was before you came.
So never think my Christmas cards
Are just a mere routine
Of names upon a list,
Forgotten in between.
For when I send a Christmas Card
That is addressed to you
It is because you're on that list
Of folks I'm indebted to.
And whether I've known you
For many years or few,
In some way you had a part
In shaping things I do.
So every year when Christmas comes
I just realise anew
The biggest gift that God can give
is knowing folks like you!
Anon
Christmas Greetings
The Christmas card was a Victorian invention. With the advent of cheaper printing and more reasonable postage costs, it became possible for people to send the compliments of the season to many of their friends. The first commercial Christmas cards were commissioned by Sir Henry Cole who worked with Rowland Hill who had brought in the 'penny post ' and the 'penny black' stamp. There was no great religious theme to the first card designed by John Halcott Horsley. It had a family celebrating together on it.
Over the years Christmas card themes have varied . During war time patriotic topics prevailed and often, even at the height of the railway age in England, a stagecoach and horses cast a nostalgic view back to a time of snow bound lanes and Yule logs in grates.
The appearance of the robin in so many cards is supposed to recall a time when postmen wore red waistcoats. In addition religious cards with a biblical text and nativity scene were very popular.
There has been a decline in the number of cards sent in recent years and all of us sometimes wonder is it really meaningful to write just once a year to some friends. Yet these greetings can mean so much.
Friendships from a long time ago remembered or families separated by many miles acknowledged. The short note or longer letter keeping people in touch along with a cheery card wishing "a merry Christmas and a happy New Year'
At the birth of Jesus there were no cards but many greetings.
The angel greets Mary with the news she is to bear the saviour of the world. Then the birth in Bethlehem where shepherds and the wise men greet this baby.
And in the birth of Jesus, God greets us.
We mean so much to him he sent his only Son to be born in Bethlehem, to walk this earth, then to die and rise again.
This is God's Christmas Message for all human kind.
Rev Fraser Stewart
There is a list of folks I know
All written in a book,
And every year at Christmas time
I go and take a look.
And that is when I realise that
These names are a part,
Not of the book they're written in
But of my very heart.
For each name stands for someone
Who has touched my life sometime,
And in that meeting they've become
The 'Rhythm of the Rhyme'.
I really feel I am composed
Of each remembered name,
My life is so much better
Than it was before you came.
So never think my Christmas cards
Are just a mere routine
Of names upon a list,
Forgotten in between.
For when I send a Christmas Card
That is addressed to you
It is because you're on that list
Of folks I'm indebted to.
And whether I've known you
For many years or few,
In some way you had a part
In shaping things I do.
So every year when Christmas comes
I just realise anew
The biggest gift that God can give
is knowing folks like you!
Anon
Christmas Greetings
The Christmas card was a Victorian invention. With the advent of cheaper printing and more reasonable postage costs, it became possible for people to send the compliments of the season to many of their friends. The first commercial Christmas cards were commissioned by Sir Henry Cole who worked with Rowland Hill who had brought in the 'penny post ' and the 'penny black' stamp. There was no great religious theme to the first card designed by John Halcott Horsley. It had a family celebrating together on it.
Over the years Christmas card themes have varied . During war time patriotic topics prevailed and often, even at the height of the railway age in England, a stagecoach and horses cast a nostalgic view back to a time of snow bound lanes and Yule logs in grates.
The appearance of the robin in so many cards is supposed to recall a time when postmen wore red waistcoats. In addition religious cards with a biblical text and nativity scene were very popular.
There has been a decline in the number of cards sent in recent years and all of us sometimes wonder is it really meaningful to write just once a year to some friends. Yet these greetings can mean so much.
Friendships from a long time ago remembered or families separated by many miles acknowledged. The short note or longer letter keeping people in touch along with a cheery card wishing "a merry Christmas and a happy New Year'
At the birth of Jesus there were no cards but many greetings.
The angel greets Mary with the news she is to bear the saviour of the world. Then the birth in Bethlehem where shepherds and the wise men greet this baby.
And in the birth of Jesus, God greets us.
We mean so much to him he sent his only Son to be born in Bethlehem, to walk this earth, then to die and rise again.
This is God's Christmas Message for all human kind.
Rev Fraser Stewart
Lochside
Well, I suppose it had to happen one day. With myself on and around water on a daily basis, I just had to fall in eventually!
Yes, fully clothed, including wellies, backpack, holding a rod, and with the Grudie River in full spate. I relied on an overhanging branch to swing around an outcrop of rocks leading into the water and it broke! So there I was, being carried downstream on my back, with my waterproof jacket and trousers full of air. Water-filled wellies acted like anchors as I struggled to the bank, but the water was surprisingly warm.
I was unharmed but unfortunately my camera containing many large fish photos was completely ruined. It seems that, in the Olympus 35mm camera I’ve had for 20 years, the two lithium batteries short circuited and burnt out the camera when wet.
Consequently the camera was really hot to the touch after I squelched the mile back home and took it out of the bag. Removing the batteries immediately after leaving the water may have saved the camera, if not the film, but I hadn’t thought that they would actually overheat in water rather than just be ruined.
Anyway, this event forced me into the new age of technology. I’ve now bought a Samsung Digital smart easy use ES73, so light and small after my Olympus – it will take some getting used to until I can hopefully find a shop that still has a more chunky 35mm for sale. I do like to feel I’m holding a camera, as this new one is more like a mobile phone. It’s like comparing a car with a heavy steering wheel to one of the Japanese cars with ultra light steering! Great for the ladies but not for me!
So far this month I’ve done well with some good pike from Loch a’ Chuilinn. I took a fishing friend to one of my favourite spots I had pre-baited and he had a hectic few hours catching a number of fish in beautiful condition, including pike of 8lbs, 9lbs and one just over 10lbs. All I could muster was a small jack pike of 4lbs which took a herring bait half the size of itself. It’s amazing what those smaller fish will try to swallow, such as the large yellow bubble float a small 1lb pike tried to eat.
Recently I found it drowned with the float jammed in its mouth. I took a photo but my sketch will show it more clearly. All I saw was the float and the jack pike was hanging underneath in a state of decomposition. Goodness knows what the 20 and 30 pounders could swallow. They all have big jaws, rows of sharp teeth and look aggressive, but in all my years of fishing for pike, I’ve never known one to try and bite my hand, even when I’m removing hooks from their mouths. They are, in fact, quite vulnerable and have to be handled with care to prevent them dying when caught.
Numerous red and white buoys with sensors have been in Loch a’ Chuilinn and Loch Achanalt for the past year. Pitlocherie fisheries management use them to monitor pike movement, with a certain amount of fish tagged with numbers. Any such fish caught are to be weighed and measured and the tagged number recorded. The number can be passed on to me or to Pitlocherie.
The pike should then be returned to the water as soon as possible. I understand it’s the first time this type of sensor has been used in Scotland to monitor pike, and it will make fishing for them that little bit more interesting. I’ve been wanting to tag the bigger fish for years to see any weight changes during a period when first caught and when caught again a year or so later.
Today, 15th October, while I sat in the rain, I saw the dog otter for the first time in over a year, swimming to a small island. It meandered along the edge of the island like a hound on the scent, its head going to and fro, then re-entered the water smoothly and was gone. I wondered if it was looking for a dead char or two that I often find on the island and use for bait. The pike never fail to take a char if it’s fresh. The seagulls also find char an easy source of food. I originally thought the small char came up the main loch in the summer to breed in the river shallows, and a number then died from exhaustion after breeding. This still may be the case but I’ve also found much larger ones dead in the winter as well. If anyone has knowledge of the habits of these fish I’d be very interested to hear it.
I think, despite the cold winds, rain and overcast conditions, a number of large pike will be caught this month, an unusual month containing five Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays respectively. This, I hear, only happens approximately once every 800 years. The summer, if one could call it that, certainly proved eventful. Unexpected catches of six very large pike over 20lbs were had, with one of 25lbs in a fortnight and 26 from 10lbs to 19.5lbs up to October. I also found a dead brown trout, halfway out of the water, weighing 7lbs.
I’m slowly getting used to my digital camera and I’m sure the photos will be brilliant when developed or printed or whatever it is you do with the tiny memory card that takes the place of a roll of film. I’d feel a lot happier with another 35mm Olympus camera. Living in the past suits me just fine! More next time.
David Willis
Yes, fully clothed, including wellies, backpack, holding a rod, and with the Grudie River in full spate. I relied on an overhanging branch to swing around an outcrop of rocks leading into the water and it broke! So there I was, being carried downstream on my back, with my waterproof jacket and trousers full of air. Water-filled wellies acted like anchors as I struggled to the bank, but the water was surprisingly warm.
I was unharmed but unfortunately my camera containing many large fish photos was completely ruined. It seems that, in the Olympus 35mm camera I’ve had for 20 years, the two lithium batteries short circuited and burnt out the camera when wet.
Consequently the camera was really hot to the touch after I squelched the mile back home and took it out of the bag. Removing the batteries immediately after leaving the water may have saved the camera, if not the film, but I hadn’t thought that they would actually overheat in water rather than just be ruined.
Anyway, this event forced me into the new age of technology. I’ve now bought a Samsung Digital smart easy use ES73, so light and small after my Olympus – it will take some getting used to until I can hopefully find a shop that still has a more chunky 35mm for sale. I do like to feel I’m holding a camera, as this new one is more like a mobile phone. It’s like comparing a car with a heavy steering wheel to one of the Japanese cars with ultra light steering! Great for the ladies but not for me!
So far this month I’ve done well with some good pike from Loch a’ Chuilinn. I took a fishing friend to one of my favourite spots I had pre-baited and he had a hectic few hours catching a number of fish in beautiful condition, including pike of 8lbs, 9lbs and one just over 10lbs. All I could muster was a small jack pike of 4lbs which took a herring bait half the size of itself. It’s amazing what those smaller fish will try to swallow, such as the large yellow bubble float a small 1lb pike tried to eat. Recently I found it drowned with the float jammed in its mouth. I took a photo but my sketch will show it more clearly. All I saw was the float and the jack pike was hanging underneath in a state of decomposition. Goodness knows what the 20 and 30 pounders could swallow. They all have big jaws, rows of sharp teeth and look aggressive, but in all my years of fishing for pike, I’ve never known one to try and bite my hand, even when I’m removing hooks from their mouths. They are, in fact, quite vulnerable and have to be handled with care to prevent them dying when caught.
Numerous red and white buoys with sensors have been in Loch a’ Chuilinn and Loch Achanalt for the past year. Pitlocherie fisheries management use them to monitor pike movement, with a certain amount of fish tagged with numbers. Any such fish caught are to be weighed and measured and the tagged number recorded. The number can be passed on to me or to Pitlocherie.
The pike should then be returned to the water as soon as possible. I understand it’s the first time this type of sensor has been used in Scotland to monitor pike, and it will make fishing for them that little bit more interesting. I’ve been wanting to tag the bigger fish for years to see any weight changes during a period when first caught and when caught again a year or so later.
Today, 15th October, while I sat in the rain, I saw the dog otter for the first time in over a year, swimming to a small island. It meandered along the edge of the island like a hound on the scent, its head going to and fro, then re-entered the water smoothly and was gone. I wondered if it was looking for a dead char or two that I often find on the island and use for bait. The pike never fail to take a char if it’s fresh. The seagulls also find char an easy source of food. I originally thought the small char came up the main loch in the summer to breed in the river shallows, and a number then died from exhaustion after breeding. This still may be the case but I’ve also found much larger ones dead in the winter as well. If anyone has knowledge of the habits of these fish I’d be very interested to hear it.
I think, despite the cold winds, rain and overcast conditions, a number of large pike will be caught this month, an unusual month containing five Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays respectively. This, I hear, only happens approximately once every 800 years. The summer, if one could call it that, certainly proved eventful. Unexpected catches of six very large pike over 20lbs were had, with one of 25lbs in a fortnight and 26 from 10lbs to 19.5lbs up to October. I also found a dead brown trout, halfway out of the water, weighing 7lbs.
I’m slowly getting used to my digital camera and I’m sure the photos will be brilliant when developed or printed or whatever it is you do with the tiny memory card that takes the place of a roll of film. I’d feel a lot happier with another 35mm Olympus camera. Living in the past suits me just fine! More next time.
David Willis
In Brief
* The Thomas Telford Ledgowan Bridge is a listed structure, Category ‘B’, in the Register of Bridges held by Historic Scotland. It is part of a pleasant pathway that leads to the main road out of Achnasheen and was built over a period from 1803 through to 1819 at a cost of £27,000. The route was recorded far back in the 1790’s as carrying foot post, twice a week, between Lochcarron and Inverness. The present modern replacement was completed in 1998 and leads, if you cross the A832 to a 'kissing gate' which allows access to the now closed school.
* “Animals and the weather have exerted profound influences over humanity but unless it’s stormy on the day of a battle, or a wild animal bites a human bigwig, conventional history commonly fails to respect non-human influences as it should”. Emma Wood makes this crucial point in her book 'Peatbogs, Plagues and Potatoes' which is about the way climate change and geology shaped Scotland’s history.
* Under a heading 22 years ago I read the following “There are only five pupils on the roll of Achnasheen School but they have raised over £80 in aid of Oxfam as a result of a sale of work in the village. The children involved are Tom Riley, Steven Ross, Jennifer Goudie, Nicola and Claire Ross” Ah...those were the days!
* New in my garden this year has been a Jay, seen during September several times. A knowledgeable friend asked "do you have Oak trees?" Yes, was my reply. Apparently they like acorns and, judging by the gorgeously coloured droppings, blackcurrants. This beautiful bird is listed under crows and now I remember we used to describe colourful (male) characters as "a bit of a jaybird…!"
* As I will certainly have to replace my car quite soon I was interested to hear that a three year old Ford Mondeo at £8,000 saves £10,000 on the price of a new one and would be considered best value for money. This tells me I will have to save up a while longer than I was expecting!
* I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when I read the following in a gardening magazine: "When planning your path, study the area around the house and work out the most convenient route from the doorways to the various essential areas that are visited regularly - the dustbin, washing line, shed and compost heap."
* I discovered that Hard Copies of Scottish heritage publications are, indeed, hard to come by. Visit www.sepa.org.uk/SEPAView for their quarterly magazine and snh.gov.uk to see PDF Files.
* Garden discoveries this year: last year’s Golden Rod stems make fine, strong and unobtrusive flower stakes. Feverfew seedlings made a lovely 'box-like' edging if, taking Sarah Raven's advice, you clip it back periodically. Thirdly, condemned pianos (piano-tuners do this sometimes!) yield perfect plant labels as the keys shed their laminations whilst standing out in the rain awaiting the skip. The marker pen I used was less successful!
* Simon Hargreaves (Senior Editor 'Bike') attended a meeting recently in Lochcarron. He was keen to help the community with concerns about motorists and motorcyclists driving in the area. He is hoping to put an article in An Carrannach magazine concerning the matter.
* The centenary of the novelist Jane Duncan was celebrated this year in Cromarty on the Black isle. Although brought up in Glasgow, she always considered her Grandparents’ croft ‘The Colony’ to be her real home. She immortalised ‘The Colony’ as ‘Reachfar’ in her novels, the first of which was called 'My Friends The Miss Boyds'. Mairi Hedderwick of Katie Morag fame added to the celebrations.
* Speaking at 'Potatoes in Practice', the main potato demonstration event in Scotland, the Chairman gave good news to Scottish Growers. Crops in this part of the world compare well with those in England where there has been a shortage of water during the growing season. English crops matured early without realising full cropping potential whereas here in Scotland…
…….and, finally, a mention that the plant stall is still outside my house and, as all the plants are perennials, they will be happy enough (under a blanket of maple leaves) until they go to new homes. Donations can still be put in the ‘honesty-box’ and, as before, will go to the
Senior Citizens’ fund.
I hope you all enjoy a happy and healthy Christmas holiday.
Pam Morrison
* “Animals and the weather have exerted profound influences over humanity but unless it’s stormy on the day of a battle, or a wild animal bites a human bigwig, conventional history commonly fails to respect non-human influences as it should”. Emma Wood makes this crucial point in her book 'Peatbogs, Plagues and Potatoes' which is about the way climate change and geology shaped Scotland’s history.
* Under a heading 22 years ago I read the following “There are only five pupils on the roll of Achnasheen School but they have raised over £80 in aid of Oxfam as a result of a sale of work in the village. The children involved are Tom Riley, Steven Ross, Jennifer Goudie, Nicola and Claire Ross” Ah...those were the days!
* New in my garden this year has been a Jay, seen during September several times. A knowledgeable friend asked "do you have Oak trees?" Yes, was my reply. Apparently they like acorns and, judging by the gorgeously coloured droppings, blackcurrants. This beautiful bird is listed under crows and now I remember we used to describe colourful (male) characters as "a bit of a jaybird…!"
* As I will certainly have to replace my car quite soon I was interested to hear that a three year old Ford Mondeo at £8,000 saves £10,000 on the price of a new one and would be considered best value for money. This tells me I will have to save up a while longer than I was expecting!
* I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when I read the following in a gardening magazine: "When planning your path, study the area around the house and work out the most convenient route from the doorways to the various essential areas that are visited regularly - the dustbin, washing line, shed and compost heap."
* I discovered that Hard Copies of Scottish heritage publications are, indeed, hard to come by. Visit www.sepa.org.uk/SEPAView for their quarterly magazine and snh.gov.uk to see PDF Files.
* Garden discoveries this year: last year’s Golden Rod stems make fine, strong and unobtrusive flower stakes. Feverfew seedlings made a lovely 'box-like' edging if, taking Sarah Raven's advice, you clip it back periodically. Thirdly, condemned pianos (piano-tuners do this sometimes!) yield perfect plant labels as the keys shed their laminations whilst standing out in the rain awaiting the skip. The marker pen I used was less successful!
* Simon Hargreaves (Senior Editor 'Bike') attended a meeting recently in Lochcarron. He was keen to help the community with concerns about motorists and motorcyclists driving in the area. He is hoping to put an article in An Carrannach magazine concerning the matter.
* The centenary of the novelist Jane Duncan was celebrated this year in Cromarty on the Black isle. Although brought up in Glasgow, she always considered her Grandparents’ croft ‘The Colony’ to be her real home. She immortalised ‘The Colony’ as ‘Reachfar’ in her novels, the first of which was called 'My Friends The Miss Boyds'. Mairi Hedderwick of Katie Morag fame added to the celebrations.
* Speaking at 'Potatoes in Practice', the main potato demonstration event in Scotland, the Chairman gave good news to Scottish Growers. Crops in this part of the world compare well with those in England where there has been a shortage of water during the growing season. English crops matured early without realising full cropping potential whereas here in Scotland…
…….and, finally, a mention that the plant stall is still outside my house and, as all the plants are perennials, they will be happy enough (under a blanket of maple leaves) until they go to new homes. Donations can still be put in the ‘honesty-box’ and, as before, will go to the
Senior Citizens’ fund.
I hope you all enjoy a happy and healthy Christmas holiday.
Pam Morrison
"She will only be here for half an hour…."
.......famous words written in an email on the 3rd October, from head teacher Robert Quigley…
When the day came HRH the Princess Royal had other ideas - she spent over an hour visiting Strathgarve Primary School on Friday, 29th October, to officially open the resurfaced playground and the new eco-garden.
Princess Anne talked to pupils and teachers, and had a comprehensive tour of the school. Maisie Mackenzie and Joe Grant were her tour guides in the eco-garden, together with Peter Mackay of the Forestry Commission, who worked alongside the children to build a hut, bird hide, bat boxes and the raised beds.
The Princess planted a birch tree donated by Action for Mountain Woodlands, which has also donated 90 dwarf birches to the school.It was a great day for all who attended - and the children were happy to chat with the Princess about their school and even discussed their healthy eating chart with her.
So next time Robert emails me, and gives me a time frame (for anything), I think I’ll just add and extra half hour or so! (Only kidding, Robert!)
Well done Strathgarve Primary - you’ve done our community proud!
Jackie West
Photographs courtesy of Uisdean Menzies.
Good News for Otters
The news from the latest Otter Survey of England can only be taken as good news, as the Eurasian Otter has been one of the sad casualties of the 20th century, declining by 95% of its range in western Europe.
A lot of hard work has been carried out since the 1980s to improve the quality of our waterways and this is now beginning to pay off. The otter is an ambassador to a healthy environment - as they are at the top of the food chain and use both the land and water environments both habitats have to be in excellent condition.
Another positive aspect of the recovery of the otter is that there is a lot of scientific evidence to show that otters can have a major effect on keeping down populations of the non-native, American mink.
However we have to take this news with some caution as the way theses surveys are carried out is by looking for spraint (droppings) at a certain number of sites for a distance of up to 600m. If spraint is found then the 10km grid square is marked as positive but this does not give any idea of otter numbers. Furthermore, it does not necessarily mean that otters are resident as the otter could merely have been passing through trying to establish a home range.
Numbers are increasing but only slowly and the reports that otters are "flooding" back into areas are greatly exaggerated. Otters cannot reproduce quickly: They do not become sexually mature until about 2 years old and the data indicates that they die at about 5-6 years old on average - there will be cases of older otters but this is an average. As the young stay with the female for 12-15 months they do not breed every year so a female may only have 2 litters in her lifetime. So it is not possible for the population to "explode".
In some areas anglers are becoming concerned about their fish but otters do not kill "for fun" and will only take to eat. If the habitat can support otters it means the water and the land are in excellent condition and this is also vital for the general biodiversity of the area.
Paul Yoxon
International Otter Survival Fund,
Broadford, Isle of Skye IV49 9DE
01471 822 487
www.otter.org
The International Otter Survival Fund - working to save the world's otters
A lot of hard work has been carried out since the 1980s to improve the quality of our waterways and this is now beginning to pay off. The otter is an ambassador to a healthy environment - as they are at the top of the food chain and use both the land and water environments both habitats have to be in excellent condition.
Another positive aspect of the recovery of the otter is that there is a lot of scientific evidence to show that otters can have a major effect on keeping down populations of the non-native, American mink.
However we have to take this news with some caution as the way theses surveys are carried out is by looking for spraint (droppings) at a certain number of sites for a distance of up to 600m. If spraint is found then the 10km grid square is marked as positive but this does not give any idea of otter numbers. Furthermore, it does not necessarily mean that otters are resident as the otter could merely have been passing through trying to establish a home range.
Numbers are increasing but only slowly and the reports that otters are "flooding" back into areas are greatly exaggerated. Otters cannot reproduce quickly: They do not become sexually mature until about 2 years old and the data indicates that they die at about 5-6 years old on average - there will be cases of older otters but this is an average. As the young stay with the female for 12-15 months they do not breed every year so a female may only have 2 litters in her lifetime. So it is not possible for the population to "explode".
In some areas anglers are becoming concerned about their fish but otters do not kill "for fun" and will only take to eat. If the habitat can support otters it means the water and the land are in excellent condition and this is also vital for the general biodiversity of the area.
Paul Yoxon
International Otter Survival Fund,
Broadford, Isle of Skye IV49 9DE
01471 822 487
www.otter.org
The International Otter Survival Fund - working to save the world's otters
The Piper of Loch Glascarnoch
With a final look at the night sky and the huge halo around the moon, I smiled and closed the door and hurriedly headed to bed.
All life in the bus was in the land of nod, snoring and dream-filled whimpers filled the room. Pulling up the duvet I fell back onto the pillow and started to drift off, it had been a day filled with sights and sounds that only the mountains can supply.
In the moment, between being awake and asleep, I could hear the sound of pipes drifting past the bus. Many times over the year I have heard this sound. Sometimes when passing the dam, other times sitting by the loch, I heard the haunting sound of the pipes.
Tonight was different, the sound was clear and so loud, almost as if someone had pulled into our wee park-up. I pulled on my dressing gown and went to see who it was. Many times people in trouble on the road stop and ask for help. As I pulled the door back, it revealed nothing, no one was there - yet the music played on. I was shocked, but just put it down to the wind, and maybe someone was parked up the road.
Turning to head back to my warm bed again I stopped and listened, the sound was louder, and was played with so much passion.
Before I knew it, I was walking along the side of the road heading towards Loch Glascarnoch.
The full moon was resting on the summit of Ben Wyvis, it lit my way almost as if it was daytime. Still the music played.
As I walked past the wee coppice, the music STOPPED, and as the loch came into view peace and quiet filled the glen, no wind nothing, just quietness.
Looking up the road towards Loch Glascarnoch dam and Aultguish Inn beyond I could see that no one was parked at any of the lay-by's.
For the first time since coming back to the mountains, a feeling of terror filled my whole body the hairs on my neck stood proud, a shiver started. Throughout my body a feeling of being watched was overwhelming, but I shook my head and forced myself to get a grip and as I did the negative feelings seem to leave, to be replaced by quiet and calm once more...
Something seemed to beckon me to the water edge. I love these mountains and as I have said before, they have given me a feeling of place and space, like I have never had in my life.
Sitting on a rock, a feeling of wonder rushing around my soul a splash in the middle of the loch caught my eye, water flew into the air and fell onto the blue cracked ice. Again another splash, this time a few yards away - a pike was on its hunt for food?
The wind stirred and played with the shapes formed by the ice, sounds echoing off the mountains and rolling back to the loch, and seemed to race to the dam wall only to disappear over it and off down the glen to Garve.
A cloud rolled in and slowly the light from the moon faded and I was left sitting there in the dark, only the stars were left to cast a dim light out across the frozen water.
At the edge, a small crack in the ice quickly grew and grew, then a loud crack was sent bouncing off the walls of the glen and a large piece of ice started to rise skyward, gently rolling to the left before crashing back into the water.
I stood back, trying to work out what could have caused this sudden movement in the frozen surface. I watched as a mist rolled down the side of the mountain and quickly reached the edge of the water - it had a strange feel to it. I watched as it rolled out, and within a minute the loch was almost invisible. The cloud that had covered the moon rolled on by, the golden rays from the moon shone on the fog, the atmosphere took on a foreboding feel, and once again a feeling of terror gripped me.
I noticed a large rock to my left, and dived behind it, not sure what I was escaping from, but every sinew of my body said this was wrong.
I looked round the edge of my large piece of moss-covered granite, to the water and what I saw froze me to the spot. Even though I tried with all my might I could not dive behind the rock for cover.
From the water a head began to emerge, strange pieces of material draped from it. It was only as the head rose was I able to see it was weed from the depths. I managed to step slowly back behind the rock, but the image before me captured me like nothing in my life before.
I watched as a man wearing full highland dress emerged. The ice parted as he made his way to the shore - he was carrying a set of pipes in one hand, the other held a huge golden claymore. He glided out from the loch, and as he stood there under the moon, water dripping back onto the ice with only a faint splash, he stopped to look all around, then headed for a large rock.
I stared in awe. Then the piper once again stopped, and slowly he turned his head towards me and let out a call in Gaelic. I could see that his right eye was missing, and in its place a small stone was lodged. A large scar was etched into his face, from the corner of his mouth to his left ear.
I dived to my right, forcing myself against the rock, without thinking I stopped breathing, and fear gripped me. I was sure he had seen me and I waited for what seemed like an age, before gathering the courage to turn and look again.
As quickly as my confidence had returned. it vanished. There, not two feet from me was the piper. Pipes at his mouth, the sword strapped to his side. I thought my heart was going to explode, and with it my life would end here, at this wonderful highland snow-covered spot.
But with one smile from the piper all my fears went, to be replaced with an overwhelming feeling of warmth and peace. He beckoned me closer, and before I knew it he said, with the softest of voices “sit”.
I spent the next hour listening to some of the most haunting, and passion-filled music I have ever heard.
At the end, he took off his cap and nodded to me. Headed back to the water and entered. The frozen water lapped at his feet, in seconds he was fully emerged and the sound from the pipes had gone.
The last image I have is when he turned to go, I could see several tears in his jacket, and a large knife handle was sticking out of his body, fully embedded to the hilt. How many years had he carried this with him?
I headed back to the bus, thinking
“I will keep this wee story to myself…”
Peace and light.
The Dafthermit
http://theblackbuscompany.blogspot.com
All life in the bus was in the land of nod, snoring and dream-filled whimpers filled the room. Pulling up the duvet I fell back onto the pillow and started to drift off, it had been a day filled with sights and sounds that only the mountains can supply.
In the moment, between being awake and asleep, I could hear the sound of pipes drifting past the bus. Many times over the year I have heard this sound. Sometimes when passing the dam, other times sitting by the loch, I heard the haunting sound of the pipes.
Tonight was different, the sound was clear and so loud, almost as if someone had pulled into our wee park-up. I pulled on my dressing gown and went to see who it was. Many times people in trouble on the road stop and ask for help. As I pulled the door back, it revealed nothing, no one was there - yet the music played on. I was shocked, but just put it down to the wind, and maybe someone was parked up the road.
Turning to head back to my warm bed again I stopped and listened, the sound was louder, and was played with so much passion.
Before I knew it, I was walking along the side of the road heading towards Loch Glascarnoch.
The full moon was resting on the summit of Ben Wyvis, it lit my way almost as if it was daytime. Still the music played.
As I walked past the wee coppice, the music STOPPED, and as the loch came into view peace and quiet filled the glen, no wind nothing, just quietness.
Looking up the road towards Loch Glascarnoch dam and Aultguish Inn beyond I could see that no one was parked at any of the lay-by's.
For the first time since coming back to the mountains, a feeling of terror filled my whole body the hairs on my neck stood proud, a shiver started. Throughout my body a feeling of being watched was overwhelming, but I shook my head and forced myself to get a grip and as I did the negative feelings seem to leave, to be replaced by quiet and calm once more...
Something seemed to beckon me to the water edge. I love these mountains and as I have said before, they have given me a feeling of place and space, like I have never had in my life.
Sitting on a rock, a feeling of wonder rushing around my soul a splash in the middle of the loch caught my eye, water flew into the air and fell onto the blue cracked ice. Again another splash, this time a few yards away - a pike was on its hunt for food?
The wind stirred and played with the shapes formed by the ice, sounds echoing off the mountains and rolling back to the loch, and seemed to race to the dam wall only to disappear over it and off down the glen to Garve.
A cloud rolled in and slowly the light from the moon faded and I was left sitting there in the dark, only the stars were left to cast a dim light out across the frozen water.
At the edge, a small crack in the ice quickly grew and grew, then a loud crack was sent bouncing off the walls of the glen and a large piece of ice started to rise skyward, gently rolling to the left before crashing back into the water.
I stood back, trying to work out what could have caused this sudden movement in the frozen surface. I watched as a mist rolled down the side of the mountain and quickly reached the edge of the water - it had a strange feel to it. I watched as it rolled out, and within a minute the loch was almost invisible. The cloud that had covered the moon rolled on by, the golden rays from the moon shone on the fog, the atmosphere took on a foreboding feel, and once again a feeling of terror gripped me.
I noticed a large rock to my left, and dived behind it, not sure what I was escaping from, but every sinew of my body said this was wrong.
I looked round the edge of my large piece of moss-covered granite, to the water and what I saw froze me to the spot. Even though I tried with all my might I could not dive behind the rock for cover.
From the water a head began to emerge, strange pieces of material draped from it. It was only as the head rose was I able to see it was weed from the depths. I managed to step slowly back behind the rock, but the image before me captured me like nothing in my life before.
I watched as a man wearing full highland dress emerged. The ice parted as he made his way to the shore - he was carrying a set of pipes in one hand, the other held a huge golden claymore. He glided out from the loch, and as he stood there under the moon, water dripping back onto the ice with only a faint splash, he stopped to look all around, then headed for a large rock.
I stared in awe. Then the piper once again stopped, and slowly he turned his head towards me and let out a call in Gaelic. I could see that his right eye was missing, and in its place a small stone was lodged. A large scar was etched into his face, from the corner of his mouth to his left ear.
I dived to my right, forcing myself against the rock, without thinking I stopped breathing, and fear gripped me. I was sure he had seen me and I waited for what seemed like an age, before gathering the courage to turn and look again.
As quickly as my confidence had returned. it vanished. There, not two feet from me was the piper. Pipes at his mouth, the sword strapped to his side. I thought my heart was going to explode, and with it my life would end here, at this wonderful highland snow-covered spot.
But with one smile from the piper all my fears went, to be replaced with an overwhelming feeling of warmth and peace. He beckoned me closer, and before I knew it he said, with the softest of voices “sit”.
I spent the next hour listening to some of the most haunting, and passion-filled music I have ever heard.
At the end, he took off his cap and nodded to me. Headed back to the water and entered. The frozen water lapped at his feet, in seconds he was fully emerged and the sound from the pipes had gone.
The last image I have is when he turned to go, I could see several tears in his jacket, and a large knife handle was sticking out of his body, fully embedded to the hilt. How many years had he carried this with him?
I headed back to the bus, thinking
“I will keep this wee story to myself…”
Peace and light.
The Dafthermit
http://theblackbuscompany.blogspot.com
News & Views Meetings: 13 October and 9 November 2010
AGNV Management Committee
Minutes 13/10/10 Achnasheen Hall 7.30pm
Present: Jim Curry (JC), Laura Gauna (LG), Harry Grainge (Harry G), Helen Grainge (Helen G), Moira Harris (MH), Pam Morrison (PM), Gill Ross (GR), Jackie West(JW).
Apologies: Debbie Peters (DP).
Chairperson Harry Grainge.
Minutes of the previous meeting, 18/08/10, approved: proposed, Helen Grainge, seconded Gill Ross.
Constitution meeting, 29/09/10, Achnasheen Village Hall, at which the final draft was discussed and approved. Present: JC, LG, Harry G, Helen G, MH, DP, JW.
Constitution adopted 05/10/10, certified as a true copy by Harry G and MH.
1. Matters arising
Report on AGNV Constitution presentation to GDCC committee meeting,05/10/10.
MH informed the GDCC that the AGNV Management Committee had approved and adopted a Constitution. Ross-shire Voluntary Action, Dingwall, had been consulted regarding content and structure of the Constitution. MH requested an agreement, in principle, that GDCC would transfer all funds raised by the AGNV and held in the CC account to an AGNV account.
The following office bearers have been appointed: Chairperson, Harry Grainge, Vice-Chairperson, Gill Ross, Treasurer, Debbie Peters, Secretary, Moira Harris. The GDCC councillors were presented with the Aims and Objectives of the Constitution, illustrating that the AGNV will continue to be a self-funded newsletter, delivered free to every community household. Several councillors appeared to agree that the AGNV should be an independent organisation. The GDCC requested to see a copy of the Constitution before funds could be transferred. This was made available at the meeting. The GDCC understood that the Constitution did not need its approval as it had been approved and adopted by the AGNV Management Committee.
MH and JW requested that if the councillors had any issues regarding the above that needed clarification, they should contact us before the next CC meeting. They agreed to do so.
Matter to be resolved at next CC meeting, 02/11/10.
Following discussion, the Management Committee agreed an AGNV bank account should be set up.
ACTION: DP to look into setting up account and signatories.
2. Plans for November newsletter
School. Headmaster Robert Quigley has agreed to submit items from Strathgarve Primary.
AGREED: Anyone from the community wishing to contribute anything relating to the school’s activities will need to liaise with Mr. Quigley.
ACTION: JW to liaise with RQ regarding input for Nov. issue.
There are approximately 24 articles for the Nov. issue, excluding advertising and ‘About this newsletter’. Separate list made available to Committee members for reference.
AGREED: Colour cover and back page for the November ‘Christmas’ issue.
28 page maximum for November issue.
ACTION: Helen G to provide header artwork for Christmas issue.
3. AOB
ACTION: Harry G to contact SNH to establish whether they would like to do anymore ‘wrap arounds’ in 2011.
ACTION: MH to contact Lawrence Gunner to establish whether Contin wants its newsletter pages printed by AGNV.
Some subscribers have not received their issues. Their names are not on the current subscriber list received from Jean Bailey.
ACTION: MH to contact Jean Bailey to see if she has additional names in order to cross check for any missing ones. Otherwise we may have to wait for subscribers to contact us to say they’ve received nothing.
AGREED: In future, renewal notices will be sent out to prompt payment along with a free copy of the AGNV.
ACTION: Helen G to draw up a list of subscription billing addresses.
- Printer jobs. All print jobs are being invoiced.
- Lochcarron Garage has proposed an AGNV download option from its website. This probably would not be practical because of the average size of the AGNV. A reciprocal link to the AGNV website was proposed. ACTION: JW to contact Lochcarron Garage.
- 3 adverts were missing from the September issue. The advertisers will be given ads the next size up from their usual in the November issue plus a written apology.
- AOB carried over to next meeting
Review of advertising rates, postal subscriptions, premium price for colour and receipt of free newsletter for advertisers.
4. Future production of newsletter
JW proposed some options which will enable more of the newsletter production team to be involved in producing the newsletter, thus spreading the workload. JW will show the team how to do this at a working session on Thursday 21st October, 2.30 – 5.30 at the Ledgowan Hotel. The hotel has kindly let the AGNV have a room for the afternoon without cost.
JW has also recommended that in the near future the Committee will need to start a database which will require continuous updating as well as register with the Information Commission re Data Protection.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 9th November, 7.30pm, Achnasheen Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 9.30pm.
near future the Committee will need to start a database which will require continuous updating as well as register with the Information Commission re Data Protection.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 9th November, 7.30pm, Achnasheen Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 9.30pm.
AGNV Management Committee
Draft Minutes 9/11/10
Achnasheen Hall 7.30pm
Present: Jim Curry (JC), Laura Gauna (LG), Harry Grainge (Harry G), Helen Grainge (Helen G),
Moira Harris (MH), Gill Ross (GR), Jackie West (JW).
Apologies: Debbie Peters (DP).
Chairperson Harry Grainge.
Minutes of the previous meeting, 13/10/10, approved: proposed, Jim Curry, seconded Gill Ross.
1. Matters arising
Report on progress re: AGNV Constitution
Upon receipt of a copy of the AGNV Constitution at the CC meeting 05/10/10, the community councillors forwarded a number of issues to the AGNV as requested. The AGNV provided the CC with a carefully considered and comprehensive series of responses to these issues. Several councillors agreed with the formalisation of the AGNV. Other issues raised by the CC included (1) ownership of the printer, (2) accounting, (3) changing the name of the newsletter so it’s no longer associated with the CC, (4) questioning whether the AGNV team would publish the CC agendas and minutes in full and free of charge and (5) the AGNV team undertaking other business activities. At the CC meeting, 02/11/10, Chairman stated that in principle the CC agreed with the transfer of funds and assets to the AGNV and with its independence. Highland Council (HC) also advised that the Constitution would need public endorsement if AGNV wished to apply for public funding and the membership needed clarification. HC agreed it would be a good idea for a community paper to be formalised. AGNV informed CC and HC that they had followed the advice of Ross-shire Voluntary Action regarding the content of the Constitution.
AGNV disagree with the CC’s claim that the printer belongs to the CC as the AGNV team raised all the money to buy the printer. There was no trade in on the previous printer as it was not fit for use. Jean Bailey stated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10, that the invoice for the printer bears the CC’s name and that the CC insures the printer. AGNV believes the insurance should come out of AGNV funds.
(1) AGREED: to resolve this situation, AGNV will accept the CC’s offer of selling the printer to the AGNV for a nominal amount so that there is an invoice and receipt.
ACTION: MH contact CC to inform them of this.
(2) AGREED: AGNV has clearly stated how it will organise its finances in the Constitution.
(3) AGREED: The readership of the AGNV should decide on name.
ACTION: AGNV to consult readership in the New Year.
(4) AGNV stated in its written reply to CC issues that it would continue to publish CC minutes unedited and free of charge. This was reiterated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10
(5) AGNV stated in its written reply to CC issues that the Constitution does not allow the AGNV to undertake any activity other than producing the newsletter as set forth in the Objectives. This was reiterated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10.
AGNV stated that it was disappointed by comments (4) and (5) as it gave the impression that the CC did not trust the AGNV team. CC denied this.
ACTION AGREED at the CC meeting: AGNV will publish the Constitution in the Christmas newsletter and give notice of a public meeting on Tuesday 11th January 2011 at 6.30pm in Achnasheen Village Hall. The meeting, to endorse the Constitution and to hand over to the Management Committee, will be chaired by HC. The CC Chair confirmed that the assets and funds would be handed over to the AGNV once public endorsement had been attained.
ACTION: Helen G to invite representative from RVA to public meeting and to provide RVA with a copy of AGNV Constitution.
MH has already sent copy of re-worked Constitution, clarifying membership, and RVA template to Robbie Bain, requesting HC chair public meeting.
2. Editorial update
AGNV has received lots of varied and interesting copy for a bumper December issue. The template we were hoping to use for December isn’t really suitable for some of the copy we receive and JW will be adjusting this accordingly.
AGREED: Editorial team to learn to use Publisher in the New Year.
AGREED: 4 colour pages, front and back and centre page spread.
3. Advertising
2011 deadlines for advertising (and editorial) are:
February/March:
Deadline: 15 January
Publication: 15 February
April/May:
Deadline: 15 March
Publication: 15 April
June/July:
Deadline: 15 May
Publication: 15 June
Aug/Sept:
Deadline: 15 July
Publication: 15 August
Oct/Nov:
Deadline: 15 Sept
Publication: 15 October
Dec (Christmas issue):
Deadline: 1 Nov
Publication: 1 December
AGREED: In the New Year the team will review rates, have an advertising drive and investigate sales outlets.
There’s been an approach from Contin for a quote to print its newsletter.
ACTION: JW to email contact, confirm request and provide quote.
4. Distribution
AGREED: AGNV will organise an afternoon tea to say thank you to all its volunteer distributors. This will be on Wednesday 8th December 2011, 3.00pm, at Achnasheen Village Hall. GR and LG to organise food. MH to write invitation and email to Helen G for distribution.
Another distributor is needed for part of the Garve area.
ACTION: MH to email Blair Millen to see if he would like to be involved and will give him Helen G email address.
5. AOB
Subscription list has not been determined and there seem to be invoices outstanding.
ACTION: Team to put queries to Jean Bailey.
Date of next meeting: Wednesday 8th December 2010, Achnasheen Village Hall, after the AGNV Distributors’ afternoon tea.
Meeting closed at 10.00pm
NOTE: meeting on the 8th December was postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
Meeting was rescheduled for Monday 13th December.
Minutes 13/10/10 Achnasheen Hall 7.30pm
Present: Jim Curry (JC), Laura Gauna (LG), Harry Grainge (Harry G), Helen Grainge (Helen G), Moira Harris (MH), Pam Morrison (PM), Gill Ross (GR), Jackie West(JW).
Apologies: Debbie Peters (DP).
Chairperson Harry Grainge.
Minutes of the previous meeting, 18/08/10, approved: proposed, Helen Grainge, seconded Gill Ross.
Constitution meeting, 29/09/10, Achnasheen Village Hall, at which the final draft was discussed and approved. Present: JC, LG, Harry G, Helen G, MH, DP, JW.
Constitution adopted 05/10/10, certified as a true copy by Harry G and MH.
1. Matters arising
Report on AGNV Constitution presentation to GDCC committee meeting,05/10/10.
MH informed the GDCC that the AGNV Management Committee had approved and adopted a Constitution. Ross-shire Voluntary Action, Dingwall, had been consulted regarding content and structure of the Constitution. MH requested an agreement, in principle, that GDCC would transfer all funds raised by the AGNV and held in the CC account to an AGNV account.
The following office bearers have been appointed: Chairperson, Harry Grainge, Vice-Chairperson, Gill Ross, Treasurer, Debbie Peters, Secretary, Moira Harris. The GDCC councillors were presented with the Aims and Objectives of the Constitution, illustrating that the AGNV will continue to be a self-funded newsletter, delivered free to every community household. Several councillors appeared to agree that the AGNV should be an independent organisation. The GDCC requested to see a copy of the Constitution before funds could be transferred. This was made available at the meeting. The GDCC understood that the Constitution did not need its approval as it had been approved and adopted by the AGNV Management Committee.
MH and JW requested that if the councillors had any issues regarding the above that needed clarification, they should contact us before the next CC meeting. They agreed to do so.
Matter to be resolved at next CC meeting, 02/11/10.
Following discussion, the Management Committee agreed an AGNV bank account should be set up.
ACTION: DP to look into setting up account and signatories.
2. Plans for November newsletter
School. Headmaster Robert Quigley has agreed to submit items from Strathgarve Primary.
AGREED: Anyone from the community wishing to contribute anything relating to the school’s activities will need to liaise with Mr. Quigley.
ACTION: JW to liaise with RQ regarding input for Nov. issue.
There are approximately 24 articles for the Nov. issue, excluding advertising and ‘About this newsletter’. Separate list made available to Committee members for reference.
AGREED: Colour cover and back page for the November ‘Christmas’ issue.
28 page maximum for November issue.
ACTION: Helen G to provide header artwork for Christmas issue.
3. AOB
ACTION: Harry G to contact SNH to establish whether they would like to do anymore ‘wrap arounds’ in 2011.
ACTION: MH to contact Lawrence Gunner to establish whether Contin wants its newsletter pages printed by AGNV.
Some subscribers have not received their issues. Their names are not on the current subscriber list received from Jean Bailey.
ACTION: MH to contact Jean Bailey to see if she has additional names in order to cross check for any missing ones. Otherwise we may have to wait for subscribers to contact us to say they’ve received nothing.
AGREED: In future, renewal notices will be sent out to prompt payment along with a free copy of the AGNV.
ACTION: Helen G to draw up a list of subscription billing addresses.
- Printer jobs. All print jobs are being invoiced.
- Lochcarron Garage has proposed an AGNV download option from its website. This probably would not be practical because of the average size of the AGNV. A reciprocal link to the AGNV website was proposed. ACTION: JW to contact Lochcarron Garage.
- 3 adverts were missing from the September issue. The advertisers will be given ads the next size up from their usual in the November issue plus a written apology.
- AOB carried over to next meeting
Review of advertising rates, postal subscriptions, premium price for colour and receipt of free newsletter for advertisers.
4. Future production of newsletter
JW proposed some options which will enable more of the newsletter production team to be involved in producing the newsletter, thus spreading the workload. JW will show the team how to do this at a working session on Thursday 21st October, 2.30 – 5.30 at the Ledgowan Hotel. The hotel has kindly let the AGNV have a room for the afternoon without cost.
JW has also recommended that in the near future the Committee will need to start a database which will require continuous updating as well as register with the Information Commission re Data Protection.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 9th November, 7.30pm, Achnasheen Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 9.30pm.
near future the Committee will need to start a database which will require continuous updating as well as register with the Information Commission re Data Protection.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 9th November, 7.30pm, Achnasheen Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 9.30pm.
AGNV Management Committee
Draft Minutes 9/11/10
Achnasheen Hall 7.30pm
Present: Jim Curry (JC), Laura Gauna (LG), Harry Grainge (Harry G), Helen Grainge (Helen G),
Moira Harris (MH), Gill Ross (GR), Jackie West (JW).
Apologies: Debbie Peters (DP).
Chairperson Harry Grainge.
Minutes of the previous meeting, 13/10/10, approved: proposed, Jim Curry, seconded Gill Ross.
1. Matters arising
Report on progress re: AGNV Constitution
Upon receipt of a copy of the AGNV Constitution at the CC meeting 05/10/10, the community councillors forwarded a number of issues to the AGNV as requested. The AGNV provided the CC with a carefully considered and comprehensive series of responses to these issues. Several councillors agreed with the formalisation of the AGNV. Other issues raised by the CC included (1) ownership of the printer, (2) accounting, (3) changing the name of the newsletter so it’s no longer associated with the CC, (4) questioning whether the AGNV team would publish the CC agendas and minutes in full and free of charge and (5) the AGNV team undertaking other business activities. At the CC meeting, 02/11/10, Chairman stated that in principle the CC agreed with the transfer of funds and assets to the AGNV and with its independence. Highland Council (HC) also advised that the Constitution would need public endorsement if AGNV wished to apply for public funding and the membership needed clarification. HC agreed it would be a good idea for a community paper to be formalised. AGNV informed CC and HC that they had followed the advice of Ross-shire Voluntary Action regarding the content of the Constitution.
AGNV disagree with the CC’s claim that the printer belongs to the CC as the AGNV team raised all the money to buy the printer. There was no trade in on the previous printer as it was not fit for use. Jean Bailey stated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10, that the invoice for the printer bears the CC’s name and that the CC insures the printer. AGNV believes the insurance should come out of AGNV funds.
(1) AGREED: to resolve this situation, AGNV will accept the CC’s offer of selling the printer to the AGNV for a nominal amount so that there is an invoice and receipt.
ACTION: MH contact CC to inform them of this.
(2) AGREED: AGNV has clearly stated how it will organise its finances in the Constitution.
(3) AGREED: The readership of the AGNV should decide on name.
ACTION: AGNV to consult readership in the New Year.
(4) AGNV stated in its written reply to CC issues that it would continue to publish CC minutes unedited and free of charge. This was reiterated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10
(5) AGNV stated in its written reply to CC issues that the Constitution does not allow the AGNV to undertake any activity other than producing the newsletter as set forth in the Objectives. This was reiterated at the CC meeting, 02/11/10.
AGNV stated that it was disappointed by comments (4) and (5) as it gave the impression that the CC did not trust the AGNV team. CC denied this.
ACTION AGREED at the CC meeting: AGNV will publish the Constitution in the Christmas newsletter and give notice of a public meeting on Tuesday 11th January 2011 at 6.30pm in Achnasheen Village Hall. The meeting, to endorse the Constitution and to hand over to the Management Committee, will be chaired by HC. The CC Chair confirmed that the assets and funds would be handed over to the AGNV once public endorsement had been attained.
ACTION: Helen G to invite representative from RVA to public meeting and to provide RVA with a copy of AGNV Constitution.
MH has already sent copy of re-worked Constitution, clarifying membership, and RVA template to Robbie Bain, requesting HC chair public meeting.
2. Editorial update
AGNV has received lots of varied and interesting copy for a bumper December issue. The template we were hoping to use for December isn’t really suitable for some of the copy we receive and JW will be adjusting this accordingly.
AGREED: Editorial team to learn to use Publisher in the New Year.
AGREED: 4 colour pages, front and back and centre page spread.
3. Advertising
2011 deadlines for advertising (and editorial) are:
February/March:
Deadline: 15 January
Publication: 15 February
April/May:
Deadline: 15 March
Publication: 15 April
June/July:
Deadline: 15 May
Publication: 15 June
Aug/Sept:
Deadline: 15 July
Publication: 15 August
Oct/Nov:
Deadline: 15 Sept
Publication: 15 October
Dec (Christmas issue):
Deadline: 1 Nov
Publication: 1 December
AGREED: In the New Year the team will review rates, have an advertising drive and investigate sales outlets.
There’s been an approach from Contin for a quote to print its newsletter.
ACTION: JW to email contact, confirm request and provide quote.
4. Distribution
AGREED: AGNV will organise an afternoon tea to say thank you to all its volunteer distributors. This will be on Wednesday 8th December 2011, 3.00pm, at Achnasheen Village Hall. GR and LG to organise food. MH to write invitation and email to Helen G for distribution.
Another distributor is needed for part of the Garve area.
ACTION: MH to email Blair Millen to see if he would like to be involved and will give him Helen G email address.
5. AOB
Subscription list has not been determined and there seem to be invoices outstanding.
ACTION: Team to put queries to Jean Bailey.
Date of next meeting: Wednesday 8th December 2010, Achnasheen Village Hall, after the AGNV Distributors’ afternoon tea.
Meeting closed at 10.00pm
NOTE: meeting on the 8th December was postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
Meeting was rescheduled for Monday 13th December.
Garve District Community Council - Agenda: 11 January 2011
GARVE & DISTRICT COMMUNITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
TUESDAY 11 JANUARY 2011
ACHNASHEEN VILLAGE HALL
7.00PM
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. News & Views
6. Correspondence received
7. AOB from CC members
8. AOB from members of the public
9. Planning applications
10. Licensing applications
11. Community Benefit Fund
12. Date of next meeting
AGENDA
TUESDAY 11 JANUARY 2011
ACHNASHEEN VILLAGE HALL
7.00PM
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. News & Views
6. Correspondence received
7. AOB from CC members
8. AOB from members of the public
9. Planning applications
10. Licensing applications
11. Community Benefit Fund
12. Date of next meeting
Garve & District Community Council - Draft Minutes: 20 December 2010
Draft Minutes of G&DCC Meeting held at Garve Village Hall
20th December 2010
PRESENT: Kenny MacLean (Chairman) Steve Jones (Vice Chairman) Jean Hollingdale (Sec.) Pam Morrison, Jennifer Haslam, Sue Tarr, Alex MacKenzie, Jock Logie, Ruari Matheson, Bob Moir, Cllr. Jean Urquhart, Police Constable Carl Sandeve (Dingwall); 10 members of the public.
APOLOGIES: Jean Bailey (Treasurer) Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, Robbie Bain.
The Chairman welcomed everyone and started the meeting at 6.00pm.
He stated that the reason for postponing the meeting at Garve on 7th Dec was because of the snow. He then went on to explain the difference between a Community Council meeting open to the public and a Public Meeting. He gave a short resume on the Parent Council meeting he attended on 8th November 2010; he also attended a meeting at Marybank with SCF and Marybank Community Council on 11th November 2010 (see Appendix); and he had attended the War Memorial service with Jean Bailey and other members of CC on Remembrance Sunday. The Chairman had been unable to attend Christmas Lights at Garve Village Hall but other members of CC were there. Meeting of Recycling Group in Kyle was cancelled due to weather conditions. Congratulations to Kris and Anna Gamble on the birth of their son Jack, and congratulations to Peter and Sarah Bedwell on the birth of their daughter Sophie. Best wishes to Lady Eliza for a speedy recovery.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES for 5th October 2010, 19th October 2010 (Special Meeting) and 2nd November 2010. Proposed: Jennifer Haslam, seconded Pam Morrison.
MATTERS ARISING:
Bins for laybys at Grudie and Gorstan: Cllr Urquhart reported they are on order. On going.
Data protection: enquiry has been dealt with.
Play Area (Garve): parents will form a group in the spring to deal with this.
Offlets at Grudie: are scheduled to be cleaned in the spring.
Trees in Stirling Drive: have been cut but branches have been left until the snow has gone then the chipping machine can get in. CC received thanks from residents of Stirling Drive.
Christmas Over 60’s Party: was well attended even though the weather was atrocious. 40 out of 52 braved the elements and had a very enjoyable evening. The CC would like to thank members of the public who came along to help out with transport and waiting on tables. A special thanks to the girls (Nicola and Laura) for their hard work through the evening. Also thanks to the previous CC for their fundraising which made this evening possible. The outcome of the survey: Christmas Lunch 7, Outing 8, Christmas Dinner 16. Next year will be dinner again. Thanks to CC members for their contribution to the hampers. Minutes of the Over 60’s organising committee are appended. Organising committee could now be dissolved as the dinner had taken place.
Tyres that had been fly tipped at Grudie Bridge: Jock collected all the tyres and Tec Services came and removed them, a letter of thanks was sent to Tec Services for their prompt action. Lochluichart Estate has suggested that perhaps some tree cutting on this area would make it more visible and more difficult for people to fly tip. P.C. Sandeve stated that anyone seen fly tipping should be reported to the police preferably with a vehicle registration number.
Highlands & Islands broadband: no reply received from November contact. It seems this is for communities that have no broadband services. Kenny MacLean had received a letter about MIFI wireless system for broadband, this is received via mobile phone signals, and seems to work very well at Achanalt. Ruari Matheson stated he uses Satellite it was a free installation with monthly costs of £25, £35 or £55 through Avanti and Scottish Executive.
POLICE ISSUES: Chairman mentioned speeding concerns through Lochluichart in particular and generally on all local roads. Various members of the public raised their concerns about the bends at Lochluichart. Jock Logie suggested a 40mph speed limit. Cllr Urquhart stated many communities are wanting speed limits; it is very difficult to get a speed limit zone. Will make a request for slow signs and will liaise with Mr Leslie Melville. There have been some near misses, more so in recent months. PC Sandeve informed members that more patrols are being put out and a camera van regularly patrols A832. They are aware of the Lochluichart problem.
A member of the public commented about use of accident statistics. Motor bikes speeding through the area. PC Sandeve mentioned BMX magazine does advertise it is a wonderful area for motor bikes. He will pass on our concerns.
TREASURERS REPORT: Treasurers Acc: £1267.69; New & Views: £1364.52; War Memorial: £82.38; Senior Citizens: £615.63. Donations received from local individuals and businesses to the Senior Citizens fund £351.00 plus wine. Very many thanks to all those who donated. Christmas Fair fundraising - bottle stall raised £110.50 for Senior Citizens fund; bric a brac raised £58.50 for the War Memorial.
NEWS & VIEWS: An email has been received from Moira Harris AGNV suggesting a meeting with a couple of members of CC before their public meeting on 11th January. Although it was agreed that a meeting with AGNV would be advantageous it would be better to wait until after their public meeting. It was suggested that Kenny MacLean, Jean Bailey and Jean Hollingdale would attend a meeting with AGNV as soon as possible after this public meeting. AGNV would like to propose that £30 is moved from the News and Views account to the Senior Citizens account; all agreed.
STANDING ORDERS AND CODE OF CONDUCT: Chairman suggested we adopt standing orders and code of conduct for community councillors. All members agreed. Proposed: Alex MacKenzie, seconded: Bob Moir. Copies are available from Secretary on request.
HIGHLAND COUNCIL NEW COMMUNITY COUNCIL CONSTITUTION (Phase 3): The Chairman is required to send comments to Highland Council during January 2011. Main concerns 1. Quorum; we suggest 2/3rds is better than the quoted 1/3rd or 4 members whichever is greater. 2. Number of community councillors, for our area 8 quoted (based on population) we suggest a larger number. General agreement from CC and members of the public that 9 or 10 would be much better. Only 8 members would certainly disenfranchise certain areas as we have such a diverse community. 16 and 17 year olds will be eligible for election as members of the CC. Bob Moir questioned use of surveys mentioned in new documents; general discussion about merits of surveys for different situations. Other key changes include full written statement on all bank accounts at each meeting; public must be given 7 days notice of meeting instead of the current 3; draft minutes must be produced within 14 days of a meeting; 3 office bearers; set provisional dates for the next 12 months worth of meetings at AGM; elections only take place every 4 years instead of the current 2 years. HC still to formally adopt the documents that all CC’s will have to work to. That is expected to be done in March 2011 and is expected to take effect from April 2011.
WRA: Sue Tarr reported that there is a new project “Cape Wrath Trail” there is a web site for this and may be of interest to tourist related enterprises. Also a nomination form for WRA membership. WRA membership open to other organisations as well. Sue stated she was willing to continue to be CC representative and all members agreed. Proposed: Jock Logie, seconded: Ruari Matheson.
WARD FORUM: meeting was cancelled.
CORRESPONDENCE: NHS Team update; Scottish Water performance update; Bluefin CC Insurance (personal insurance for CC members NOTE: A member of the public suggested that it would be a good idea for members of the CC to take out personal insurance. This will be looked into.); Highland Licensing Board; HC quality awards short list; Connect (Scottish Health Council autumn issue); Hags play equipment; Fair Trade Highlands leaflets; Letter about MIFI broadband. Emails: Ross-shire Voluntary Aid free courses available to organisations; Uisdean Menzies re War Memorial arrangements (Jennifer Haslam noted that she had not laid the CC Wreath but one for Ross-shire); letter from member of public in Beauly re Windfarm money. Reply sent to HIE re broadband; SSE; Letter received from Mr. Macphail; Jackie West confirmation of removal of GDCC Achnasheen address; Sheildaig CC mins; Scotland census fliers; Moira Harris re AGNV; Jackie West re AGNV donation; Mr. Kit Bowen, Chairman Strathpeffer CC re Windfarm Community Benefit. Chairman mentioned a scam letter received about a bequest from Hong Kong.
Chairman noted that all members receiving correspondence should bring it along to the CC meeting so it can be minuted.
AOB:
Grit bins: Jock Logie asked why have some houses around Grudie Bridge have grit bins and others have not. Also some of the grit bins are refilled and others not. Cllr. Urquhart will deal with this matter.
Scottish Water: Jennifer Haslam stated she had heard a rumour that the Garve water supply was not up to standard, Sec to write to Scottish Water for clarification and invite a representative to one of our meetings.
Fault in Street lighting at Achnasheen: matter dealt with.
Ward Managers: Reports in press about ward managers to be axed - Cllr Urquhart stated this information was leaked. Chairman stated we do not want to lose our ward manager, all members agreed.
Highland Council snow ploughs - A member of the public commented that the HC gritter had not been blading the road down to the surface which left the road in a very dangerous condition resulting in various accidents at Corriemoillie and Achanalt. Cllr. Urquhart stated she was aware of the cuts in winter maintenance we have lost two ploughs. Letter to be sent to Ian Hay.
Cllr. Urquhart was thanked for attending and wished Seasons Greetings as CC moved on to planning matters.
PLANNING AND LICENSING: Two planning applications for two houses at Achnaclerach Garve, no comments to be made from CC. No licensing applications.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUND: We have received information on Fairburn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund First Grant Awards. Chairman commented on the problems Marybank CC had had when trying to set up this fund themselves and that in the end they had decided to involve SCF to manage the fund. Advice from Marybank was to keep community informed and to get experts in to help.
Strathpeffer Community Council has approached G&DCC to ask for a share of the Community Benefit from Lochluichart Windfarm, at the expense of Marybank, Contin and Garve. Jennifer Haslam stated that she was born and bred in Strathpeffer and questioned the connections Strathpeffer claimed with Garve area. It was agreed that a letter would be sent to Strathpeffer CC Chairman in reply declining their request.
Lochluichart Wind Farm Benefit - it was stated that an agreement has been in place for several years and that it was time to ask SCF, Eneco, E-on and Robbie Bain Ward Manager to a public meeting as soon as possible in the New Year.
Chairman Closed the meeting 7.55pm.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING :
11th January 2011 Achnasheen Village Hall 7.00pm
NOTE: Public meeting for AGNV Constitution will be held at 6.30pm Achnasheen Village Hall.
Appendix 1
SCF official launch of Fairburn community benefit fund held at Memorial Hall, Marybank on 11 November 2010.
Present - Robbie Bain (HC), Matilda Urie (E-on), Morven Smith (SSE), Julian Reaveg (SSE), Giles Rock (SCF) and approx. 30 members of public. There were also representatives from various CC’s.
This is a £2 million fund over 25 years, around £80,000 per year. There is also a variable amount depending on how much electricity is produced each year. The main fund is split 55% to Marybank CC, 27 ½% to Contin CC and the remaining 17 ½% to Muir-of-Ord CC.
Some money has already been spent on apprentices, transport and Xmas lights!
SCF were thanked for its help over the years to the communities involved. It was able to give the panel its terms of reference. They were also able to help with procedures, conflict of interest issues etc …
Appendix 2
Minutes of Over-60’s Christmas Party Organising Committee meeting held 19th Nov 2010 in Garve Village Hall. 2pm
Present: Kenny MacLean (Chairman), Jean Hollingdale (Secretary), Jean Bailey, Alex Mackenzie, Penny Moir, Jennifer Haslam, Sue Tarr.
Menus received from Aultguish Inn and Ledgowan Hotel; also a quote from a catering company – it was decided to go to Aultguish.
Date was agreed for Wed 8th Dec 2010, 6 for 6.30pm.Treasurer stated that there was £710 in Over 60’s Account. The current list of Over 60’s stands at 105.Donations of wine and stamps have been received. Community Councillors to provide a hamper. Alex Mackenzie organising entertainment. Transport – it was agreed that there would be no bus this year, but volunteers would be needed to provide transport for anyone who wanted it. Volunteers have come forward for waiting at tables. Agreed to hand deliver invitations with SAE for replies.
Thinking ahead to next year, it was agreed that the invitations would include a question about whether people would prefer a Christmas Lunch, a Christmas Dinner or a coach trip at a different time of year.
Meeting closed at 3pm.
20th December 2010
PRESENT: Kenny MacLean (Chairman) Steve Jones (Vice Chairman) Jean Hollingdale (Sec.) Pam Morrison, Jennifer Haslam, Sue Tarr, Alex MacKenzie, Jock Logie, Ruari Matheson, Bob Moir, Cllr. Jean Urquhart, Police Constable Carl Sandeve (Dingwall); 10 members of the public.
APOLOGIES: Jean Bailey (Treasurer) Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, Robbie Bain.
The Chairman welcomed everyone and started the meeting at 6.00pm.
He stated that the reason for postponing the meeting at Garve on 7th Dec was because of the snow. He then went on to explain the difference between a Community Council meeting open to the public and a Public Meeting. He gave a short resume on the Parent Council meeting he attended on 8th November 2010; he also attended a meeting at Marybank with SCF and Marybank Community Council on 11th November 2010 (see Appendix); and he had attended the War Memorial service with Jean Bailey and other members of CC on Remembrance Sunday. The Chairman had been unable to attend Christmas Lights at Garve Village Hall but other members of CC were there. Meeting of Recycling Group in Kyle was cancelled due to weather conditions. Congratulations to Kris and Anna Gamble on the birth of their son Jack, and congratulations to Peter and Sarah Bedwell on the birth of their daughter Sophie. Best wishes to Lady Eliza for a speedy recovery.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES for 5th October 2010, 19th October 2010 (Special Meeting) and 2nd November 2010. Proposed: Jennifer Haslam, seconded Pam Morrison.
MATTERS ARISING:
Bins for laybys at Grudie and Gorstan: Cllr Urquhart reported they are on order. On going.
Data protection: enquiry has been dealt with.
Play Area (Garve): parents will form a group in the spring to deal with this.
Offlets at Grudie: are scheduled to be cleaned in the spring.
Trees in Stirling Drive: have been cut but branches have been left until the snow has gone then the chipping machine can get in. CC received thanks from residents of Stirling Drive.
Christmas Over 60’s Party: was well attended even though the weather was atrocious. 40 out of 52 braved the elements and had a very enjoyable evening. The CC would like to thank members of the public who came along to help out with transport and waiting on tables. A special thanks to the girls (Nicola and Laura) for their hard work through the evening. Also thanks to the previous CC for their fundraising which made this evening possible. The outcome of the survey: Christmas Lunch 7, Outing 8, Christmas Dinner 16. Next year will be dinner again. Thanks to CC members for their contribution to the hampers. Minutes of the Over 60’s organising committee are appended. Organising committee could now be dissolved as the dinner had taken place.
Tyres that had been fly tipped at Grudie Bridge: Jock collected all the tyres and Tec Services came and removed them, a letter of thanks was sent to Tec Services for their prompt action. Lochluichart Estate has suggested that perhaps some tree cutting on this area would make it more visible and more difficult for people to fly tip. P.C. Sandeve stated that anyone seen fly tipping should be reported to the police preferably with a vehicle registration number.
Highlands & Islands broadband: no reply received from November contact. It seems this is for communities that have no broadband services. Kenny MacLean had received a letter about MIFI wireless system for broadband, this is received via mobile phone signals, and seems to work very well at Achanalt. Ruari Matheson stated he uses Satellite it was a free installation with monthly costs of £25, £35 or £55 through Avanti and Scottish Executive.
POLICE ISSUES: Chairman mentioned speeding concerns through Lochluichart in particular and generally on all local roads. Various members of the public raised their concerns about the bends at Lochluichart. Jock Logie suggested a 40mph speed limit. Cllr Urquhart stated many communities are wanting speed limits; it is very difficult to get a speed limit zone. Will make a request for slow signs and will liaise with Mr Leslie Melville. There have been some near misses, more so in recent months. PC Sandeve informed members that more patrols are being put out and a camera van regularly patrols A832. They are aware of the Lochluichart problem.
A member of the public commented about use of accident statistics. Motor bikes speeding through the area. PC Sandeve mentioned BMX magazine does advertise it is a wonderful area for motor bikes. He will pass on our concerns.
TREASURERS REPORT: Treasurers Acc: £1267.69; New & Views: £1364.52; War Memorial: £82.38; Senior Citizens: £615.63. Donations received from local individuals and businesses to the Senior Citizens fund £351.00 plus wine. Very many thanks to all those who donated. Christmas Fair fundraising - bottle stall raised £110.50 for Senior Citizens fund; bric a brac raised £58.50 for the War Memorial.
NEWS & VIEWS: An email has been received from Moira Harris AGNV suggesting a meeting with a couple of members of CC before their public meeting on 11th January. Although it was agreed that a meeting with AGNV would be advantageous it would be better to wait until after their public meeting. It was suggested that Kenny MacLean, Jean Bailey and Jean Hollingdale would attend a meeting with AGNV as soon as possible after this public meeting. AGNV would like to propose that £30 is moved from the News and Views account to the Senior Citizens account; all agreed.
STANDING ORDERS AND CODE OF CONDUCT: Chairman suggested we adopt standing orders and code of conduct for community councillors. All members agreed. Proposed: Alex MacKenzie, seconded: Bob Moir. Copies are available from Secretary on request.
HIGHLAND COUNCIL NEW COMMUNITY COUNCIL CONSTITUTION (Phase 3): The Chairman is required to send comments to Highland Council during January 2011. Main concerns 1. Quorum; we suggest 2/3rds is better than the quoted 1/3rd or 4 members whichever is greater. 2. Number of community councillors, for our area 8 quoted (based on population) we suggest a larger number. General agreement from CC and members of the public that 9 or 10 would be much better. Only 8 members would certainly disenfranchise certain areas as we have such a diverse community. 16 and 17 year olds will be eligible for election as members of the CC. Bob Moir questioned use of surveys mentioned in new documents; general discussion about merits of surveys for different situations. Other key changes include full written statement on all bank accounts at each meeting; public must be given 7 days notice of meeting instead of the current 3; draft minutes must be produced within 14 days of a meeting; 3 office bearers; set provisional dates for the next 12 months worth of meetings at AGM; elections only take place every 4 years instead of the current 2 years. HC still to formally adopt the documents that all CC’s will have to work to. That is expected to be done in March 2011 and is expected to take effect from April 2011.
WRA: Sue Tarr reported that there is a new project “Cape Wrath Trail” there is a web site for this and may be of interest to tourist related enterprises. Also a nomination form for WRA membership. WRA membership open to other organisations as well. Sue stated she was willing to continue to be CC representative and all members agreed. Proposed: Jock Logie, seconded: Ruari Matheson.
WARD FORUM: meeting was cancelled.
CORRESPONDENCE: NHS Team update; Scottish Water performance update; Bluefin CC Insurance (personal insurance for CC members NOTE: A member of the public suggested that it would be a good idea for members of the CC to take out personal insurance. This will be looked into.); Highland Licensing Board; HC quality awards short list; Connect (Scottish Health Council autumn issue); Hags play equipment; Fair Trade Highlands leaflets; Letter about MIFI broadband. Emails: Ross-shire Voluntary Aid free courses available to organisations; Uisdean Menzies re War Memorial arrangements (Jennifer Haslam noted that she had not laid the CC Wreath but one for Ross-shire); letter from member of public in Beauly re Windfarm money. Reply sent to HIE re broadband; SSE; Letter received from Mr. Macphail; Jackie West confirmation of removal of GDCC Achnasheen address; Sheildaig CC mins; Scotland census fliers; Moira Harris re AGNV; Jackie West re AGNV donation; Mr. Kit Bowen, Chairman Strathpeffer CC re Windfarm Community Benefit. Chairman mentioned a scam letter received about a bequest from Hong Kong.
Chairman noted that all members receiving correspondence should bring it along to the CC meeting so it can be minuted.
AOB:
Grit bins: Jock Logie asked why have some houses around Grudie Bridge have grit bins and others have not. Also some of the grit bins are refilled and others not. Cllr. Urquhart will deal with this matter.
Scottish Water: Jennifer Haslam stated she had heard a rumour that the Garve water supply was not up to standard, Sec to write to Scottish Water for clarification and invite a representative to one of our meetings.
Fault in Street lighting at Achnasheen: matter dealt with.
Ward Managers: Reports in press about ward managers to be axed - Cllr Urquhart stated this information was leaked. Chairman stated we do not want to lose our ward manager, all members agreed.
Highland Council snow ploughs - A member of the public commented that the HC gritter had not been blading the road down to the surface which left the road in a very dangerous condition resulting in various accidents at Corriemoillie and Achanalt. Cllr. Urquhart stated she was aware of the cuts in winter maintenance we have lost two ploughs. Letter to be sent to Ian Hay.
Cllr. Urquhart was thanked for attending and wished Seasons Greetings as CC moved on to planning matters.
PLANNING AND LICENSING: Two planning applications for two houses at Achnaclerach Garve, no comments to be made from CC. No licensing applications.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUND: We have received information on Fairburn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund First Grant Awards. Chairman commented on the problems Marybank CC had had when trying to set up this fund themselves and that in the end they had decided to involve SCF to manage the fund. Advice from Marybank was to keep community informed and to get experts in to help.
Strathpeffer Community Council has approached G&DCC to ask for a share of the Community Benefit from Lochluichart Windfarm, at the expense of Marybank, Contin and Garve. Jennifer Haslam stated that she was born and bred in Strathpeffer and questioned the connections Strathpeffer claimed with Garve area. It was agreed that a letter would be sent to Strathpeffer CC Chairman in reply declining their request.
Lochluichart Wind Farm Benefit - it was stated that an agreement has been in place for several years and that it was time to ask SCF, Eneco, E-on and Robbie Bain Ward Manager to a public meeting as soon as possible in the New Year.
Chairman Closed the meeting 7.55pm.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING :
11th January 2011 Achnasheen Village Hall 7.00pm
NOTE: Public meeting for AGNV Constitution will be held at 6.30pm Achnasheen Village Hall.
Appendix 1
SCF official launch of Fairburn community benefit fund held at Memorial Hall, Marybank on 11 November 2010.
Present - Robbie Bain (HC), Matilda Urie (E-on), Morven Smith (SSE), Julian Reaveg (SSE), Giles Rock (SCF) and approx. 30 members of public. There were also representatives from various CC’s.
This is a £2 million fund over 25 years, around £80,000 per year. There is also a variable amount depending on how much electricity is produced each year. The main fund is split 55% to Marybank CC, 27 ½% to Contin CC and the remaining 17 ½% to Muir-of-Ord CC.
Some money has already been spent on apprentices, transport and Xmas lights!
SCF were thanked for its help over the years to the communities involved. It was able to give the panel its terms of reference. They were also able to help with procedures, conflict of interest issues etc …
Appendix 2
Minutes of Over-60’s Christmas Party Organising Committee meeting held 19th Nov 2010 in Garve Village Hall. 2pm
Present: Kenny MacLean (Chairman), Jean Hollingdale (Secretary), Jean Bailey, Alex Mackenzie, Penny Moir, Jennifer Haslam, Sue Tarr.
Menus received from Aultguish Inn and Ledgowan Hotel; also a quote from a catering company – it was decided to go to Aultguish.
Date was agreed for Wed 8th Dec 2010, 6 for 6.30pm.Treasurer stated that there was £710 in Over 60’s Account. The current list of Over 60’s stands at 105.Donations of wine and stamps have been received. Community Councillors to provide a hamper. Alex Mackenzie organising entertainment. Transport – it was agreed that there would be no bus this year, but volunteers would be needed to provide transport for anyone who wanted it. Volunteers have come forward for waiting at tables. Agreed to hand deliver invitations with SAE for replies.
Thinking ahead to next year, it was agreed that the invitations would include a question about whether people would prefer a Christmas Lunch, a Christmas Dinner or a coach trip at a different time of year.
Meeting closed at 3pm.
Garve District Community Council - Agenda: 20 December 2010
AGENDA
Rescheduled meeting - please note early start time
Monday 20th December 2010
Garve Village Hall
6pm
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. Standing Orders for CC meetings
6. HC Consultation on CC’s – stage 3
7. WRA/Ward Forum
8. Correspondence received
9. AOB
10. Planning applications
11. Licensing applications
12. Community Benefit Fund
13. Date of next meeting
Rescheduled meeting - please note early start time
Monday 20th December 2010
Garve Village Hall
6pm
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. Standing Orders for CC meetings
6. HC Consultation on CC’s – stage 3
7. WRA/Ward Forum
8. Correspondence received
9. AOB
10. Planning applications
11. Licensing applications
12. Community Benefit Fund
13. Date of next meeting
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)