SpotLight on Strathspey

SEE IN

SIDE

This MonthElgin BID............................p10

Travel: Dubai .....................p16

Chef’s Confidential ............p18

Where’s Santa?..................p13

Speyside Dental .................p15

Logie Steading...................p17

Motoring section ..........p20-21

Property section.......p22-24

Clubs & Societies, PastoralLetter, Church Details, Council News, Useful

Numbers, Local Holidays,What’s On, Parliament Blog,Tide Times and much, much

more!

p3 & 11

Unique Beauty

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ed Nurse egistereatments performed by a rJanuary 2013 Issue Deadlines

Editorial: Friday 30th November Advertising: Wednesday 5th December

PUBLISHER ...............David Nelmes

SALES ......................Eilidh Conners

SALES...........................Peter Evans

ACCOUNTS ...................Lynn Wood

LAYOUT ........................Michelle Ho

DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson

ADMIN ....................Tamsyn Dickson

The Editor

New SPARES REPAIRS SERVICE

Tel: (01309) 672432 www.stuartscycles.co.uk

STUARTS CYCLESOF FORRES

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STUARTS CYCLES

Be Safe Be SeenA Full Range Of Lights

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RESERVE YOUR BIKE FOR CHRISTMASSLEDGES / SNOWBOARDS IN STOCK NOW!

21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate,Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl)

Hours of Business MON - FRI 9am - 5pm

Easy Parking & Disabled Toilet Facilities

01309 676677 [email protected]

Range ofHigh back chairsRiser/ReclinerChairs & Electric Beds... ...everything to keep you comfortable this winter.

www.vianaarts.deviantart.com

November SpotLight front cover picturewas by Samuel Silva. Samuel’s art can beseen on his website at:

© Brian J Smith

Santa’s coming - normallya time of cheer andgoodwill but through RAFor Army deployments,offshore work commitmentsor other reasons many oflocal families will bewithout their loved onesthis Christmas. So whileyou're tucking into yourturkey, remember those whoare thousands of miles onthis special day.

AVIEMORE TINY TOTSWednesdays 10am - 12noon,Aviemore Youth Centre. Indoorplay equipment & activities for 0 -3 year olds. Facebook pageAviemore Tiny Tots. Email :[email protected]

BEADING & JEWELLERY MAKING WORKSHOPSThe Imagination Workshop,Inverdruie, Aviemore. Learn howto use beads and wire to makeyour own amazing jewellery. CallGayle Penney on 01479 812111

BADENOCH & STRATHSPEYRAMBLERSEvery other weekend, alternateSaturdays & Sundays. ContactElizabeth Longley 01479 851735/ [email protected] formore information about ourwalks and membership details.

MORTLACH ART GROUPEvery Thursday, 1pm - 4:30pm inthe Mortlach Memorial Hall,Dufftown. All welcome, 16 up.

BOHARM BOOTCAMPMonday and Thursday classes7pm - 8pm. Beginners’ classstarting Tuesday 4th September

7:30pm - 8.30pm at Boharm Hall,Mulben. Classes £1.50. ContactLorraine: 01582 860338.

HIGHLAND SPIRITUAL CINEMAInverness-based film groupwith monthly screenings ofuplifting and inspiring filmsthat educate, entertain andenlighten, with the opportunityto participate in post-film dis-cussion. Tel: 01463 237452.www.highlandspiritualcin-ema.net

KINGUSSIE PARENT, BABY &TODDLER GROUPThursdays 9.15am - 11.30am,Badenoch Centre, Spey Centre,Kingussie. Call 01540 662485 formore information.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OFDECORATIVE AND FINE ARTSSOCIETY (MORAY BANFF ANDBADENOCH BRANCH)Meets 2nd Wednesday of themonth at 11am in the SherwoodSuite at the Eight Acres Hotel,Elgin. Monthly lectures on a vari-ety of arts related subjects aredelivered by experts from acrossthe UK. New members alwayswelcome. Contact Sarah Fennings-Mills: 01343 831002 orwww.nadfas-in-elgin.org.uk

SPEY ART CLUBEvery Wednesday 7pm - 9pm atGrantown Grammar School ArtRoom, PH26 3HU. New mem-bers always welcome. ContactLiz on 01479 872085

SPEYSIDE VOLLEYBALLMonday evenings 7pm - 10pm inThe Games Hall, Speyside Com-munity Centre, Aberlour. Men,women, youths, juniors, seniors,all welcome. Contact Stewart on01340 871730

STRATHSPEY RAILWAY ASSOCIATIONSupporters of the StrathspeySteam Railway. Keeping SteamAlive in the Highlands. Visitwww.strathspeyrailway.net forinfo & membership details.Volunteers week 21 to 28 July2012 email [email protected]

ABERLOUR BRIDGE CLUBWednesday nights 6.30pm for a

6.45pm (Sept - April) start at TheFleming Hall, Queens Road,Aberlour, Speyside. SecretaryAudrey Marr Tel: 07855 087984To book your seat phone Mikeon 01343 543962

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPSFree, confidential help & supportto the relatives & friends of prob-lem drinkers. Local weeklygroups in Highland area. Call020 7403 0888 for a local contactnumber for your area.

AVIEMORE BOWLING CLUBIndoor short mat. Club night7pm. Every Monday andWednesday. Members £2.Visitors £3. For further info [email protected]

AVIEMORE BOWLING CLUBBingo night. Eyes down 7.30pm. Every Thursday. Entry 30p.£3 for 6 books. £1 for the Flyer

AVIEMORE CEILIDHDANCERSMeet monthly, 8pm - midnight atthe Aviemore Village Hall. Li-censed bar and interval with re-freshments and raffle. Fordetails contact Patsy Thompsonon 01540 651377

AVIEMORE COMMUNITY CAFEWednesdays 10am - 4pm. StAndrew's Church Hall. Tea, cof-fee, home baking; and home-made soup and roll or cheesescone from 12noon. A warm wel-come awaits you. Contact Jane Alexander:[email protected]

EDINVILLIE CRAFT CLUBLadies from Edinvillie & Aberlourdistrict meet at the Edinvillie Hallevery Tuesday 2pm - 4pm, fromOctober to April, to teach eachother new crafts.

GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY BOWL-ING CLUBClub nights on Monday. ‘Comeand Try’ on Thursday evenings.All welcome. Equipment pro-vided Contact: Sandra South on01479 873510

GRANTOWN ON SPEYBRIDGE CLUBMondays, 7pm in Grantown’sEpiscopal Church Hall (Oct to

Apr) Visitors and new membersare always welcome. Call 01479872672

GRANTOWN ON SPEY LAWNTENNIS CLUBJunior & adult coaching is runthroughout the year. The clubalso participates in the HighlandDistrict Leagues. Call 01479873120

GRANTOWN PARENT, BABYAND TODDLER GROUP Twice weekly at Inverallan churchhall for fun & play for children &parents/carers alike. All welcometo pop in for a chat and a coffee.Call Emmeline on 01479 873166for information.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OFDECORATIVE AND FINE ARTSSOCIETY (MORAY BANFF ANDBADENOCH BRANCH)Meets 2nd Wednesday of themonth at 11am in the SherwoodSuite at the Eight Acres Hotel,Elgin. Monthly lectures on a vari-ety of arts related subjects aredelivered by experts from acrossthe UK. New members alwayswelcome. Contact Sarah Fennings-Mills: 01343 831002 orwww.nadfas-in-elgin.org.uk

SCOTTISH WOMENS RURALINSTITUTE3rd Wednesday of the month,7:30pm at St. Andrew’s ChurchHall, Aviemore. Find friendship,support, fun and laughter in thisunique organisation. Call SWRIheadquarters on 0131 225 1724for more info.

page 4 - December 2012 tel: 01309 690063 SpotLight on Strathspey

If you would like details ofyour club or society

included in this section,please let us know. All

club listings are free. Notall clubs will be listed in

every issue.

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CLUBS & SOCIETIES

for clubs & societies

amendments, please phone:01309 690063

© Alison Nelmes

It is difficult to imagine a more romantic setting for your wedding than a 17th century house set in a sheltered walled garden. However, Innes is not just a stunning venue which you and your guests will never forget, but also offers a wholly flexible programme to enable you to plan your day exactly as you would like.

Every wedding is unique and tailor-made for each couple. You may hold the ceremony here in the garden or in one of the two beautiful reception rooms. After the service your guests can wander round the gardens whilst you have your photographs taken in these tranquil, romantic surroundings.

The reception and dinner may be held in the East Dining Room or larger parties can be held in our marquee extension which covers a walled garden complete with a summer house for the bar and a fountain around which the tables are set. After dinner you may enjoy dancing or other entertainment and then drive away down the tree lined avenue and look back on a magnificent floodlit house.

Alternatively, you and some of your guests may stay the night in one of our splendidly appointed bedrooms and leave after a leisurely breakfast the next morning.

Any couple booking their 2013 Wedding with us during January 2013,will be offered complementary Wedding night accommodation along with a

‘Champagne Toast’ upgrade of their chosen Drinks package.

Please quote ‘SpotLight’ when making an enquiry

Innes House – Elgin – Moray – IV30 8NGTel. 01343 842410

[email protected] – www.inneshouse.co.uk

The Lord is with us always, even intimes of trial and tribulation. The story ofJoseph, son of Jacob, in the Book ofGenesis from chapter 37 onwards, willtestify to that. He is 17 years old whenwe first encounter him in the fieldstending the flocks with his brothers. Hewas a bit of a clype (37:2) which did notendear him. Neither did the fact that hewas his father’s favourite (37:3) or thathe was prone to having dreamssuggesting that he was superior to hisparents and his brothers (37:5-11). Hisbrothers would have killed him but forthe intervention of Reuben, the first-bornson. Instead they hid him in a cisternbefore selling him to some Midianitemerchants (37:23-28). And we are toldthat the Lord was with him (39:2).

He was sold to Potiphar the Captain ofthe Guard in Pharaoh’s palace, wherehe prospered and was trusted withcharge of the household. But troublefound him again, when as a righteousman, he rejected the amorous advancesof the Guard Commander’s wife andincurred her fury. With neithercorroboration nor foundation she falselyaccused him and he was unjustlyimprisoned. And yet, we are told the

Lord was with Joseph (39:20-21). Hedid, however, find favour with the jailerwho put him in charge of all theprisoners.

Joseph was a dreamer and hisdreaming would now save his and hisfamily’s lives as well as those ofcountless others. In fact, this proved tobe God’s purpose for him all along(45:5). Only Joseph, after prayer to God,could fathom the content and meaningof the Pharaoh’s dreams and onlyJoseph could warn him of impendingfamine and of the action he needed totake. Joseph became Governor ofEgypt, but when his family came fromCanaan, seeking for food, they did notrecognise him. He recognised them, butthere was no malice on his part. In fact,he forgave them and loved them,including Benjamin, the wee brother hehad never met. Amazingly, Joseph toldhis brothers that in the end it was notthem who sent him to Egypt but God.

Hopefully, we shall never suffer asJoseph did, but no doubt we willexperience some disappointment,slander, unfairness and injustice in life.Let us take heart then from theknowledge that the Lord is with us

always, to the very end of the age(Matthew 28:20).

This truth is so wonderfully illustratedwhen nearly two thousand years later anangel of the Lord appeared in a dreamto another righteous Joseph, who wasbetrothed to the virgin Mary. The angelsaid: “Joseph son of David, do not beafraid to take Mary home as your wife,because what is conceived in her is fromthe Holy Spirit. She will give birth to ason and you are to give him the nameJesus, because he will save his peoplefrom their sins” (Matthew 1:19-21).

All this took place to fulfil what the Lordhad said through the prophet: “The virginwill be with child and will give birth to ason and they will call him Immanuel –which means, “God with us.” (Matthew1:22-23). May you know the presence ofthe Lord Jesus with you this Christmasand always!

Rev. Bob Anderson,Knockando, Elchies &Archiestown linked with Rothes


PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS

© Eileen Fitzpatrick

Abernethy Parish Church Nethy Bridge. Sundays 9.30am:family morning service. Followed by refreshments. Traditionalservice at 12 noon. Tel: 01479 821280.Aberlour Parish Church The Square, Aberlour. Sunday11.15am. Alvie & Insh Church of ScotlandOur churches can be foundbeside Loch Insh for morning worship at 09.30am & Loch Alviewhere we meet at 7.00pm. If bad weather is forecast, changesmight be made to these venues. Please call 01540 661918 forconfirmation of where we will meet.Badenoch Free Church Ruthven Road, Kingussie. Sundays11am and evening service 6pm. Boat of Garten Parish Church, St Columba's Boat of Garten.Sunday morning service 10am. Evening worship at KincardineChurch, 6pm the second Sunday of most months: pleasecheck the weekly press. Contact tel.: 01479 831252.Craigellachie Church Victoria Street, Craigellachie. Sundays9.45am. Dulnain Bridge, Church of ScotlandSunday services 12noon.Duthil Parish Church Carrbridge. Sunday morning service at11.30am. Tel: 01479 831252.Grantown Baptist Church High Street, Grantown-on-Spey.Sundays 11am and evening service at 6pm. All welcome.Contact Rev. Rick Moeller: 01479 873125.Inverallan Parish Church Church of Scotland.

Grantown-on-Spey. Sundays 10.30am with crèche. Allwelcome. Contact Rev. Morris Smith: 01479 872084.Kingussie Parish Church Sundays 11am. All welcome.Website: www.kingussieparishchurch.org.ukKnockando, Elchies & Archiestown Parish Church ofScotland Sundays 10am. Tel : 01340 831381.Rothes Parish Church Sundays 11.30am. Tel: 01340 831381.Rothiemurchus & Aviemore Church of Scotland StAndrews Church, Grampian Road, Aviemore. Sundays11.15am. Website: www.standrews-aviemore.org.ukSt Columba Episcopal Church High Street, Grantown, P263LD. Sundays 10.30am: Holy Communion. Ven. RichardGillings: [email protected] or phone 01479831365.St John Episcopal Church Sunday 10.30am: Eucharist. Followed by refreshments in the church hall. Email:[email protected] Michael Episcopal Church St Michael's Episcopal Church,Conval Street, Dufftown. Family Eucharist every Sunday at 11am. All welcome. Tel: 01343 862808.St Margaret of Scotland, Episcopal Church High Street,Aberlour, AB38 9QD. Sundays 10am: Eucharist. Tel: 01340881764. Website: www.stmargaretsaberlour.co.ukIf you are a member of a church not listed here, please email us withdetails and we may print them in future issues.

Local Holidays

School Term Dates

Useful Telephone Numbers

MORAY COUNCIL SCHOOLSWinter Term Ends Fri 21st Dec 2012Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2013Elgin Academy & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013Elgin High & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013Forres Academy & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013Mid-term Holiday Fri 15th Feb 2013Mid-term Holiday Mon 18th Feb 2013Spring Term Ends Thurs 28th Mar 2013

HIGHLAND COUNCIL SCHOOLSWinter Term Ends Thurs 20th Dec 2012Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2013Mid-term Break Mon 11th - Fri 15th Feb 2013Spring Term Ends Thurs 28th Mar 2013Good Friday Holiday Fri 29th Mar 2013Easter Monday Mon 1st Apr 2013Summer Term Starts Mon 15th Apr 2013May Day Holiday Mon 6th May 2013

St. Andrews Day Fri 30th Nov 2012

Christmas Day Tues 25th Dec 2012

Boxing Day Wed 26th Dec 2012

New Year’s Day Tues 1st Jan 2013

Scottish Bank Holiday Wed 2nd Jan 2013

Burns Night Fri 25th Jan 2013

Shrove Tuesday Tues 12th Feb 2013

Mother’s Day Sun 10th Mar 2013

Good Friday Fri 29th Mar 2013

British Summertime Begins Sun 31st Mar 2013

Easter Monday Mon 1st Apr 2013

Early May Bank Holiday Mon 6th May 2013

Spring Bank Holiday Mon 27th May 2013

Father’s Day Sun 16th Jun 2013

British Summertime Ends Sun 27th Oct 2013

SpotLight on Strathspey tel: 01309 690063 December 2012 - page 7

USEFUL INFORMATION

© Keith J Bissett

Aviemore Local Police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810222Regional Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 715555Aviemore Citizens Advice Bureau . . . . . . . 01479 810919Aviemore Registrar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810694Aviemore Social Work Services . . . . . . . . 01479 810251Aviemore Tourist Information. . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810363National Rail Enquires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08457 484950Aberlour Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01340 871201Aviemore Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 811056Dufftown Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 820244Aviemore Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 811113Badenoch Library & Learning Centre . . . . 01540 661596Aberlour Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871693Dufftown Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01340 820272Grantown Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 873175

DOCTORSAberlour Heath Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871210

Aviemore Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810258

Blair Atholl Doctor's Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . 01796 472558

Dufftown Heath Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 820888

Fleming Hospital – Aberlour . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871464

Gergask Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01528 544225

Glenlivet Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01807 590273

Grantown-on-Spey Medical Practice. . . . . 01479 872484

Kingussie Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . 01540 661233

Out-of-hours emergency NHS 24. . . . . . . 08454 242424

Raigmore Hospital Inverness . . . . . . . . . . 01463 704000

St. Vincent’s Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01540 661219

Stephen Cottage Hospital – Dufftown . . . . 01340 820215

Strathdon Medical Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01975 651209

The Surgery (Crathie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01339 741202

Tomintoul Medical Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01807 580219

PHARMACIESAberlour Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871279

Aviemore Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810259

Clark Munro Ltd (Grantown) . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 873711

Davidsons Chemists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01339 755409

Lloyds Pharmacy (Grantown) . . . . . . . . . . 01479 872006

Rothes Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 831233

Other useful numbers including vets, schools, dentists, andvillage halls are rotated on a regular basis and will appear in subsequent issues.

If you have any suggestions for additional numbers, pleasecontact us and we may include them in the magazine.

Present: John Grierson, Alistair Dargie,Ray Sefton, Lorna McGibbon, AudreyMacKenzie, Ron Whyte, Mark Allan,Yvonne Birnie, Karen Lawrie, KateCameron, Cllr Bill Lobban, Kirsty Bruce(minuter), Tom Ramage (press)In Attendance: Ian MalcolmApologies: Willie McKenna (CPNA)

6. AOCB a). PLANNING: John Grierson summarised the procedure AVCC hadadopted in dealing with planningapplications. It was agreed that JohnGrierson, Mark Allan and Ray Sefton wouldlook at planning applications and decidewhich applications should be broughtbefore AVCC for discussion. Proposed byRon Whyte and seconded by YvonneBirnie.b). PLANNING: COUNTRY PARK: JohnGrierson advised that the Country Park hadbeen recommended for approval andfollowing that, details of the park would bedisplayed within the Aviemore Library fromWednesday, 26th September and that he,along with Cllr Bill Lobban and LizHenderson, would be available to answerany questions. John Grierson proposedthat £2,000 be red-circled as “money inkind” funds to assist with fundingapplications for the project. Proposed byJohn Grierson and seconded by AlistairDargie.c). COMMUNITY CAFE: Ron Whyteadvised that the Community Café whichruns from the St. Andrews Church Hallevery Wednesday, have decided to hostand provide Christmas lunch to thosemembers of our community who wouldotherwise be alone on Christmas Day. Adonation of £200 towards the cost ofproviding Christmas lunches was agreed.Proposed by Audrey MacKenzie andseconded by Karen Lawrie.d). CHARGES AT NEW COMMUNITYCENTRE: Ron Whyte advised AVCC thatcharges at the new community centre wereextremely prohibitive and would stop manycommunity groups being able to use thefacility. He gave for an example “MessyChurch”, which hosts a free fun afternoonfollowed by a meal for 90 to 120. Aviemoreprimary school aged children and that the

group had been quoted a price of £300and that was with a discount. He statedthat Messy Church had been able to hirethe use of the Cairngorm Shining StarsNursery for £14 per hour. John Griersonalso added that he had enquired aboutusing the new facility to hold AVCCmeetings, however, the cost of a meetingroom was £36 as opposed to £25 for St.Andrews Church Hall. It was proposed byJohn Grierson that AVCC continue to meetat St. Andrews, seconded by AlistairDargie.e). ATC HALL: Ron Whyte advised AVCCthat land for the ATC Hall had beensecured for the next 75-years at the cost of£1. He also advised that the funding tobuild the new hall was in place and that allthat was now required was the planningpermission. He extended his thanks onbehalf of ATC to John Grierson, Bill Lobbanand AVCC for all their support with thisproject.f). COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD: JohnGrierson advised that the Tourist Officewere no longer able to be key holders forthe community notice board. It wasremitted to Ray Sefton to collect the keyand make new arrangements for use of thecommunity notice board.g). GATEWAY TO AVIEMORE: AudreyMacKenzie commented on the southentrance to Aviemore and felt it wasimportant that this should be an attractiveand tidy gateway to Aviemore. Remitted toJohn Grierson to speak to Alistair Grantand Simon Jackson of MAHR.h). OLD BRIDGE INN: Audrey Mackenzie commented on the unsightlygas canisters at the old bridge, which shefelt should be screened away and thatthere was still no “no vehicle access” signat the underpass into the village. Remittedto John Grierson to contact thoseresponsible.i). OLD SEWER WORKS AT DALFABER:Audrey MacKenzie felt that old sewer works should be concreted overand suggested making the site into a wintercurling pond. Remitted to John Grierson toask landowner to consider gifting land tothe community.j). TREES AT DALFABER ROAD:Audrey MacKenzie commented on the

state of the trees on Dalfaber Road.Remitted to John Grierson to contact TECservices.k). AVIEMORE FLORAL DISPLAYS:Audrey MacKenzie felt that AVCC shouldthank those responsible for the summerfloral displays. Remitted to John Griersonto write thank you letters to thoseconcerned.l). OLYMPIC STATUE: Audrey MacKenzie stated that the Olympic Statueplaque would need to be updated.Remitted to Audrey MacKenzie to supplyJohn Grierson with a list of names and aquotation for updating the plaque. m). CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE:Audrey MacKenzie stated that she nolonger wished to organise the ChristmasCarol Service. Bill Lobban thanked Audreyfor all the years that she had put together agreat event. After discussion it was remittedto Ray Sefton, Kate Cameron and AlistairDargie to liase with Audrey and plan thisyear’s Christmas Carol Service.n). REMEMBERANCE SUNDAY WREATH: It was remitted to Ray Sefton toorganise remembrance Sunday wreath. o). BOUNDARIES COMMISSION: CllrBill Lobban advised that boundariescommission have now decided not to splitBadenoch and Strathspey and that theywould remain within the Invernessboundary. He also said that Skye would beadded onto the Inverness boundary.p). ASSOCIATION OF CAIRNGORMCOMMUNITY COUNCILS: Ian Malcolmstated that it was really pleasing to have afull community council. He also explainedhis role on the Association of CairngormCommunity Councils and asked that nochange be made at the moment. JohnGrierson proposed that Ian Malcolmremain AVCC’s representative on ACCCand this was seconded by Ray Sefton.q). FUTURESCAPES PROJECT: JohnGrierson said that Catherine Vis-Christie ofRSPB has asked to speak to thecommunity council about the FuturescapesProject. She will attend the next meeting onThursday, 11th October. John Griersonintimated that the meeting would start at17:15 to accommodate the presentation.


ExTRACTS FROM THE MINuTES OF THE MEETING OF 13TH SEPTEMBER 2012 OF AvIEMORE AND vICINITy COMMuNITy COuNCIL

COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS

© Karen Barclay

Monday7-9pm Pete’s Beat9-10pm John’s World

Tuesday7-8pm Shirley’s Choice8-9pm Aimee After Eight

www.speysound.comto listen live

Wednesday7-8pm Totally Eighties8-9pm Folk ’n’ That

Thursday6-7pm Ceilidh in the Park (bilingual)7-9pm Classics for Pleasure9-10pm Speysound Scottish

Friday5-7pm Drive Time7-8pm Alison’s Eighties8-9pm Clubbin’ it

Saturday8-10am Malky & Jason in the Morning8-9pm Phil Steedman

Sunday8-10am Grant Gallagher Breakfast Show

107.1fm


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PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES© Roger Carr

Parliament Blog“ ”

Danny Alexander MP Fergus Ewing MSP

Broadband. Ten years ago hardly anyone would have known whatit was, now it has become an essential for business. The Highlandsand Islands have been chosen as the first place in Scotland tohave a massive investment to upgrade the services. Theinvestment will exceed a hundred million - and will therefore dogreat things. But even at that, there will still be , in rural areas inparticular, non spots where there is no access, or areas where the

speed remains frustratingly slow.This matter was discussed at a meeting in Elgin of the Convention of the Highlands andIslands, where John Swinney and myself, as the Finance secretary and Enterprise Minister,met with representatives of the Moray, Highland and Islands councils and others.The importance of swift broadband connections is now critical to a great many businesses.In tourism, for example, so many of the bookings of accommodation are made online. Thiswork is being rolled out and it will take a bit of time - but please do contact me if you havea particular problem with lack of access or slow speed.Recently, playing with my four year old daughter in the garden, a low autumnal sun shoneacross the garden, from over tops of the Cairngorm peaks. I therefore donned my sunglasses when playing with Natasha. This led her to observe: "Daddy - you look like arock star!" This accusation has never been levelled at me before. But then, I thought that since shehas only seen the likes of Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart and so on, on telly, she probably thinksthat you have to be pretty ancient to be a rock star!

Just recently I had an opportunity to hear what some ofour young people in Inverness think about the issuesfacing the highlands today.Europe, the economy and fuel prices were all high onthe list of priorities for the senior pupils, at the newlyrefurbished Inverness Royal Academy, when I wasinvited along for a question and answer session.

But, for many of them, the issue at the forefront of their minds seemed to bethe one on which they may have their first chance to vote: independence.Now that we all know when the referendum is likely to be, they were keen tofind out when they will know the facts behind both camps’ arguments, whatthe implications might be for the highlands and why I have taken the pro-UKstance they had read about in the papers.Facing their questions, I felt confident that, with young people so concernedabout the area’s future and aware of the issues the country is facing, thefuture of the highlands is in safe hands.

Kirsty WrightSports and Remedial

Massage TherapistTel: 01479 821184

or 01479 861256Mobile: 07855 909314

Kinloss HIVE and Glenmore Lodge, Aviemorewww.kirstywrightmassage.com

Member of SMA (Level 4)

Wednesday 5th December A special Yuletide Late Night Shopping Event takesplace on Wednesday 5th December from 5pm – 8pmacross South Street, Commerce Street, Batchen Streetand Thunderton Place. This special event will see manyindependent, specialist businesses opening up theirdoors for one night only. Shoppers can find a range of unique gifts, crafts andfoods with many offering one night only special offersand discounts. Shop in a relaxed and friendlyatmosphere and enjoy free refreshments and nibbles.Keep warm with hot refreshments and snacks fromMiriam’s Tea Room and why not finish the night with amouth -watering well deserved meal and takeadvantage of the money off discounts from the AkashIndian or Lido French Restaurant.

Participating Businesses include (more to beconfirmed): South Street - Xanadu, Sound and Vision, ChuckMcCall, Gordon and MacPhail, British Red Cross,Tommy’s Hair, Moravian Digital Press , Bee Crafty , ElginFurniture and Carpet Centre, Miriams Tea Room,

Junners (Toymaster), Lido (French Cuisine), Akash(Indian), McCalls, Linda’s Wools, Carlton Leisure (Bingo).Start to Knit (Commerce Street), Elgin Gallery andCoffee Shop (Thunderton Place). Why not make your Christmas Shopping a guaranteedenjoyable experience and come along to the speciallate night evening in Elgin and also take advantage ofthe reduced City Centre parking charges.

Saturday 15th December - Last Minute ChristmasMarket A visit to Elgin is a must for last minute Christmas gifts.Come along to the street market and visit the range oftop quality shops for special gifts, crafts, food and drink.Santa will also be there in a very unusual ‘Grotto’ ‘notto be missed. To make the day extra Christmassy whynot stop a while and listen to the carol singers.

FOR A TRULY UNIQUE AND SPECIAL CHRISTMASSHOPPING EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR A VISIT TO ELGIN IS AMUST. For ongoing developments please go to www.elginbid.co.uk orwww.facebook.com/elginbid

One night onlyELGIN CITY CENTRE at CHRISTMAS

special offers and discounts...

events

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For that special Christmas treat, visit your local independent businesses in SSoouutthh SSttrreeeett,,

BBaattcchheenn SSttrreeeett,, TThhuunnddeerrttoonn PPllaaccee && CCoommmmeerrccee SSttrreeeett, offering a wide range

of unique & unusual gifts, crafts, food & drink.

OOppeenniinngg llaattee uunnttiill 88..0000ppmm with special offers, nibbles, mulled wine and

great deals on food and drink come along and join in the festive fun.

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For a wide range of crafts, gifts, food and drink

why not make the EEllggiinn CChhrriissttmmaass MMaarrkkeett and the ggrreeaatt rraannggee ooff LLooccaall SShhooppss, the place to visit.

FFllyyiinngg GGrroottttoo on the Plainstones


NOVEMBER26 mondaynew frontiers illustrated talk 7.30pm. boat of gartencommunity hall. an odyssey in professional photography by peter cairns. 01479 831506.

26 monday - 30 fridaycairngorm christmas market 10.30am. ptarmiganbar, cairngorm mountain. 01479 [email protected]

27 tuesdayscottish music with ronnie douglas 8.30pm. contactduke of gordon hotel in kingussie: 01540 661302.

28 wednesdaycreag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk10am - 12noon. refreshments after. 07961 [email protected]

29 thursday carrbridge & vicinity community council meeting7.30pm. at the village hall. all welcome. laggan heritage talk with ewan cameron: “the historyof dalwhinnie distillery” 7.30pm. laggan village hall. live music with nigel dyson 8.30pm. duke of gordonhotel, kingussie. 01540 [email protected]

pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. £1 pp. 01479 810661.

30 fridaykingussie auction 7pm. in aid of the christmas lights.contact gillies bar, duke of gordon hotel, kingussie. “representations of st andrew” (moray society lecture series) 7.30pm.elgin museum hall. 01343543675. [email protected] rock garden club 7.30pm. new elgin hall an-nexe. new members required for exciting projects.contact hazel robson: 01340 871227.scottish music with ronnie douglas 8.30pm. contactduke of gordon hotel in kingussie: 01540 661302. st andrew’s night live music 9.30pm. cairngormhotel, aviemore. 01479 810233.

30 friday - 2 decemberfloral arts exhibition talla nan ros, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

DECEMBER1 saturday christmas art fair the iona gallery.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.htmlcairngorms farmers market 10.30am - 3.30pm. inver-allan church hall, grantown-on-spey. free event. [email protected] primary school christmas fayre 11am -2pm. free entry. santa’s grotto, stalls, crafts, refresh-ments, homebaking, raffle @ 1.30pm. christmas bingo 7pm - 10pm. craigellachie villagehall, john street, craigellachie. in aid of the villagehall funds. www.craigellachie.org.ukbisongrass & the cundees @ flanagans bar, elgin.8pm. a night of punk & sludge metal. www.face-

What’s On

Please send Us details Of YOUr eventsWebsite: www.spotlighton.co.uk

email: [email protected] telephone: 01309 690063

‘What’s On’ listings deadline for Januaryissue is friday 30th november.

Please note: information supplied to spotlight is receivedin good faith, therefore, we may not be responsible for errors

in the ‘What’s On’ section.

07840 804207

Telephone

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Wednesday 5th December A special Yuletide Late Night Shopping Event takesplace on Wednesday 5th December from 5pm – 8pmacross South Street, Commerce Street, Batchen Streetand Thunderton Place. This special event will see manyindependent, specialist businesses opening up theirdoors for one night only. Shoppers can find a range of unique gifts, crafts andfoods with many offering one night only special offersand discounts. Shop in a relaxed and friendlyatmosphere and enjoy free refreshments and nibbles.Keep warm with hot refreshments and snacks fromMiriam’s Tea Room and why not finish the night with amouth -watering well deserved meal and takeadvantage of the money off discounts from the AkashIndian or Lido French Restaurant.

Participating Businesses include (more to beconfirmed): South Street - Xanadu, Sound and Vision, ChuckMcCall, Gordon and MacPhail, British Red Cross,Tommy’s Hair, Moravian Digital Press , Bee Crafty , ElginFurniture and Carpet Centre, Miriams Tea Room,

Junners (Toymaster), Lido (French Cuisine), Akash(Indian), McCalls, Linda’s Wools, Carlton Leisure (Bingo).Start to Knit (Commerce Street), Elgin Gallery andCoffee Shop (Thunderton Place). Why not make your Christmas Shopping a guaranteedenjoyable experience and come along to the speciallate night evening in Elgin and also take advantage ofthe reduced City Centre parking charges.

Saturday 15th December - Last Minute ChristmasMarket A visit to Elgin is a must for last minute Christmas gifts.Come along to the street market and visit the range oftop quality shops for special gifts, crafts, food and drink.Santa will also be there in a very unusual ‘Grotto’ ‘notto be missed. To make the day extra Christmassy whynot stop a while and listen to the carol singers.

FOR A TRULY UNIQUE AND SPECIAL CHRISTMASSHOPPING EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR A VISIT TO ELGIN IS AMUST. For ongoing developments please go to www.elginbid.co.uk orwww.facebook.com/elginbid

One night onlyELGIN CITY CENTRE at CHRISTMAS

special offers and discounts...

events


book.com/thesyndicate2008

1 saturday - 2 sundaynewtonmore & district floral art club: victorian christ-mas 10am - 5pm. talla nan ross, kingussie. soups,mince pies, tea and coffee. free entry. christmas craft market the iona gallery.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

1 saturday - 9 sundaychristmas exhibition and sale (speyside artisans)10am - 4pm. glenfiddich distillery’s gallery, dufftown.01542 886311.

1 saturday - 22 saturdaysantaland at castle stuart inverness. 07814 [email protected] www.castlestuart.com

2 sunday kingussie’s “light up a life” (highland hospice) con-tact britta harder: 01463 [email protected] 5k winter challenge 11am. cooper park,elgin. www.morayroadrunners.comsunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle,blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796481207. [email protected] christmas shopping day 12pm. throughtoutkingussie. pony rides, mulled wine, santa’s grottopipe band, xmas lights switch on etc.

3 monday “dr strangelove” 7.45pm. ruthven road picture-house, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

4 tuesdaynewtonmore’s “light up a life” (highland hospice)contact britta harder: 01463 [email protected] council spending priorities community work-shop (speyside area) 7pm - 9pm. fleming hall, aber-lour. booking essential. 01343 563996.

5 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk10am - 12noon. refreshments after. 07961 [email protected] fine art lecture: “three wise men, gold,frankincense & myrrh: the traditions of the magi”11am. eight acres hotel, elgin. visitors welcome.festive fun (inverallan church guild) 2pm. inverallanchurch hall, grantown-on-spey. a warm welcomewith tea and biscuits.alasdair fraser and natalie haas 7.30pm, universalhall, findhorn. 01309 690311. www.findhorn.org

6 thursdayhealth walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weather-permitting during winter). refreshments afterwards.contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

8 saturday “handmade in scotland” christmas craft fair 10am - 2pm. at lossiemouth high school. free entry.find us on facebook. email:[email protected] rankin - the a9 tour 12pm. waterstone’s, eastgatecentre, inverness. signing copies of the new rebusinstallment. 01463 233500.chris ramsey - feeling lucky @ ironworks 7pm. 08717894173. www.ironworksvenue.comdreich house 4pm. universal hall, findhorn. 01309690311. www.findhorn.org

8 saturday - 9 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special 01340821181. www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uksanta’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796481207. [email protected]

9 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle,blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796481207. [email protected] cuillin sound concert 4.30pm - 6.45pm. stkentigern’s church, braemar road, ballater. 01339756260. [email protected] choral and carol concert 6.30pm. blaircastle, blair atholl. 01796 481207. [email protected] railway santa specials special fares andtimetables apply. 01479 810725. [email protected]

9 sunday - 10 monday festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore.£28 pp. 01479 810233. [email protected]

10 monday aberlour senior citizen’s christmas party 5.30pm for6pm. fleming hall, aberlour.

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“in the footsteps of tilman: crossing the path of agreat adventurer” 7.30pm. boat of gartencomm.hall. 01479 831506. [email protected]“frost/nixon” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, thesilverfjord hotel, kingussie.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

12 wednesday“bulbs of asia minor” (highland rock garden club)7.30pm. nairn community centre. contact johnowen: 01320 366246.

13 thursdayhealth walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weather-permitting during winter). refreshments afterwards.contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

15 saturdayaviemore ceilidh dance with shelia peters and jim8pm. aviemore primary school & community hall.ph22 1sy. tickets £5.

15 saturday - 16 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special come andmeet santa in his grotto on the train. 01340 821181.www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uksanta’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796481207. [email protected]

16 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle,blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796481207. [email protected] a folky little christmas 7pm. £10/£5 u18s. contacttalla nan ros, kingussie.strathspey railway santa specials special fares andtimetables apply. 01479 810725. [email protected]

16 sunday - 17 monday festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore.£28 pp. 01479 810233. [email protected]

17 monday“moonrise kingdom” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

20 thursdayhealth walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weather-permitting during winter). refreshments af-terwards. contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

21 friday winter solstice @ kincraig 2.30pm - 4.30pm. book-ing essential. adults £3, concs £2. duncan: [email protected] night of queen @ ironworks 7.30pm. 08717894173. www.ironworksvenue.com

Santa’s Grotto At Baxters Highland Village11am - 4pm. £5 includes a gift. tel: 01343 820666

Breakfast With Santa At Baxters HighlandVillage, Fochabers. Delight kids with the chance toenjoy breakfast with Santa himself. £9.99, pre-bookingrequired. tel: 01343 820666

Reindeer Day at Brodie Countryfare on Sunday23rd December. Visit Santa in his grotto 11am-2pm. MeetSanta’s reindeer in their pen 1pm-3.30pm. Wave Santa offon his farewell parade 3.30pm. Enjoy our special winterbbq. Children’s teacups ride. Dr Gray’s Wave Radio andmuch, much more. Shop for last minute food, gift ideas,toys and stocking fillers. tel: 01309 641555.www.brodiecountryfare.com

Santaland at Castle Stuart. Available everyday fromSaturday 1st Dec to Sat 22nd Dec. Choose and book yourtime for private parties (min. 10 people in the group / 1 hourexclusively in the entire castle). The castle will not be opento the public. Hot dogs, hot chocolate, ice cream andcookies, crafts with Mrs Claus, and a wee gift with Santain the drawing room. Child £10 pp. adult £10 pp. babiesunder 6 months free. To book your date and time, contact:Twinkletoes, Head Elf: 07814 476901 or email [email protected] visit www.castlestuart.com

Santa’s Grotto at Christies - Every Sat & Sun, 12pm -3pm. All children primary school and under will receive afree gift. Donations gratefully received and all moniescollected will be sent to Childrens’ Hospice AssociationScotland. tel: 01343 820 362

Santa’s Grotto at Holm Mills Shopping Villagein inverness. £4 per child includes toy. 1st Dec 11am-4pm,2nd Dec 12noon-4pm, 8th Dec 11am-4pm, 9th Dec12noon-4pm, 15th Dec 11am-4pm, 16th Dec 12noon-4pm,22nd Dec 11am-4pm, 23rd Dec 12noon-4pm and 24th Dec12noon-4pm. Breakfast with Santa is £7 and includes athree item breakfast with juice & a toy. 9am-12noon on the22nd and 24th Dec. 10am on the 23rd. booking isessential.

Santa's Grotto at Howdens Garden Centre atStoneyfield, Inverness. Opening hours: Sat and Sun 11am-1.30pm and 2pm-4pm. £5 per child includes a gift fromSanta. tel: 01463 711134.

Santa’s Grotto at Mackenzie & Cruickshankevery Sat and Sun in Dec up to Christmas 1pm-3.30pm.£5 entry (including toy and photo and donation to ForresChristmas lights). 1 West Road, Forres, IV36 2GW. t: 01309 696940.

Santa is at SimpsonsGarden Centre inInverness on Dec 1-2, 8-9,15-16 and 22-24. £7. Giftfrom Santa and tenminutes. tel: 01463250200.

Where’s Santa?

22 saturday aviemore santa run 11.45am. in aid of disabilitysnowsport uk. 01479 861 [email protected]

22 saturday - 23 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special come andmeet santa in his grotto on the train. 01340 821181.www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uksanta’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796481207. [email protected]

22 saturday - 24 monday strathspey railway santa specials special fares andtimetables apply. 01479 810725. [email protected]

23 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle,blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796481207. [email protected] festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore.£28 pp. 01479 810233. [email protected]“joyeux noel” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse,the silverfjord hotel, kingussie.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

24 mondaytorchlight procession @ aviemore 5pm - 9pm. procession through the streets of aviemore. 01479810363. www.aviemore.co.ukfireworks @ aviemore 6.30pm. contact cairngormhotel: 01479 810233. [email protected] christmas parade 7pm. mince pies,mulled wine, carol singing and pipe band. contact:the courthouse, kingussie. christmas eve in kingussie high street santa andreindeer, mulled wine, mince pies, carols etc.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

25 tuesdaychristmas day lunch @ aviemore 12.30pm. cairn-gorm hotel. 01479 [email protected]

26 wednesdaycreag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk10am - 12noon. refreshments afterwards.07961632685. [email protected]

27 thursdayhealth walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weather-permitting during winter). refreshments afterwards.contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.cairngorm ceilidh trailers 8pm. contact: talla nan ros,kingussie.

28 saturday - 31 mondaybruadar whisky trail 10am. 01796 481207. [email protected]

29 saturday skimo scotland races 3pm. lecht 2090, tomintoul.entry closing date: 23/[email protected]

31 monday scottish country dancing @ blair castle 11.30am or1.30pm. free with castle entry. 01796 481207. [email protected] ceilidh @ boat of garten 8pm - 1am. con-tact the community hall: 01479 831506. [email protected] @ knockando 8pm - 1am. margach hall,knockando. families welcome. raffle drawn on thenight and music. contact charlie: 01340 810605.hogmanay @ archiestown 8pm - 1am. archiestownvillage hall. www.archiestown.comnew year’s eve torchlight parade @ newtonmore11.30pm. glen hotel. free event. hogmanay ceilidh @ dufftown commercial hotel hall,4 church street. 01340 820313. hogmanay party @ dufftown at the royal british le-gion, balvenie street, dufftown. 01340 820425.hogmanay parade & fireworks @ kingussie11.30pm. piped procession, fireworks, refreshmentsand a dram. contact silverfjord hotel, kingussie.torchlight procession @ kingussie 11.30pm. gatherat the fountain by the station. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.htmlfireworks @ aviemore 12am. contact cairngormhotel. 01479 810233. [email protected]

JANUARY 2013 in brief1 tuesdayveterans shinty match kingussie football field.www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

9 wednesday“uncle george” - a personal view of george forrest(highland rock garden club) 7.30pm. nairn community centre. john owen: 01320 366246.

19 saturdayskimo scotland 4pm. glenshee ski centre, [email protected]

26 saturdayburns night supper at glenrinnes 7pm - 11.30pm.glenrinnes community centre.

26 saturday - 27 sunday aviemore sled dog rally 9am. 07990 848898 / 0871 277 6783. www.siberianhuskyclub.com

31 thursdaycarrbridge & vicinity community council meeting7.30pm. at the village hall. all welcome.


What’s On Events•Hogmanay celebrations•Winter festival celebrations •Burns supper events•Coffee mornings•Concerts•Talks•Exhibitions•Fairs•and so on...

If you would like to see yourevent in the January issue,

log on to:www.spotlighton.co.uk

Deadline:Friday 30th November

CHRISTMAS OFFER10% DISCOUNT on Tooth Whitening

OPEN TO ALLGift Vouchers Available

A PASSION FOR PREVENTION

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BDA GOOD PRACTICE SCHEME MEMBER

FINALISTS

BOOK NOW!BOOK NOW!

Available

every day from

Sat 1st

Decemberto

Sat 22nd

December

To Book your Date and Time Contact: Twinkletoes, Head Elf Tel 07814 476 901

(minimum 10 people in the group/ I hour exclusively in the entire Castle)

Smaller groups can now check availability and book times available for sharing the castle with other families.The Castle will not be open to the general public.

You need to book a time and date for the electronic gates to open at your command!

CHOOSE & BOOK YOURTIME FOR PRIVATE PARTIES

Hot Dogs, Hot Chocolate, Ice Cream & Cookies, Craftswith Mrs Claus, Wee Gift with Santa in the Drawing Room.

Child £10.00 per person, Adult £10.00 per personBabies under 6 months FREE

Please note there is no wheelchair access at the Castle, it is a17th century tower house with a steep stone staircase.

With its guaranteed sun, excellent hotels, golden beaches, fantastic shopping and only seven hours flying time direct from Glasgow, Dubai has become one of the most popular, all year round, holiday destinations. With dwindling oil reserves, the United Arab Emirate set out to replace its oil incomes with revenue from tourism, and it appears to have succeeded.

The oldest part of the City is centred around the Dubai Creek with its many souks and mosques, or you can take a visit to the Dubai Museum which is housed in Al Fahidi Fort. Built in 1787, it is the oldest existing building in Dubai. Dubai’s fascinating museum shows the history and development of Dubai to the present day.

With approximately 68 shopping malls, Dubai is a shoppers paradise. The two biggest being the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates, which offers everything from high street and designer brands to ice rinks and cinemas, along with every type of cuisine imaginable and even the world’s largest suspended aquarium can be found in the Dubai Mall.

Dubai has something to offer everyone in the family, including skiing in the desert at the fabulous Ski Dubai indoor arena. Kids will love Wild Wadi and Aqua adventures water parks. For the more adventurous, why not try the 4x4 desert safari or take the elevator to the observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, where you will have a spectacular 360 degree view of the city, desert and ocean from 830 metres above.

To enjoy the best beachfront facilities, beach lovers opt to stay in one of the many luxurious hotels on Jumeirah Beach, the most iconic hotel being the Burj Al Arab, the world’s only 7 star hotel.

Dubai offers such a vast range of hotels choices and experiences, it would make an ideal destination for a two centre holiday, combining both beach and city life and direct flights from Scotland make it very easy to get to.

Information kindly supplied by

2-6 South Street, Elgin 01343 548844 Street, F

travel

...Dubai

Desert 4 x 4

Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Dreamingof...Dreaming

16

Beaver Travel, 78 High Street, Forres Also at: 2-6 South Street, Elgin www.beavtrav.com Beaver Travel is also a ticket agent for Eden Court Theatre, Inverness - No booking fee.

ELGIN01343 548844

FORRES01309 672203

CHRISTMASHO, HO, HOLIDAYS

Winter WonderlandExperience all the magic of Lapland in a single day - huskies, reindeer, snowmobiles and an enchanting family meeting with Father Christmas himself - and still be back home in time for bed.22nd Dec departingGlasgow .......................£1696

(2 Adults & 2 Children)

Santa's On His WaySearch for Santa in his magical homeland. A two night short break with full board accommodation, include husky rides, reindeers rides snow mobile safaris and all kinds of fun for your family in the snow.7th Dec departing Edinburgh for 2 Nights...................£2947

(2 Adults & 2 Children)

SwitzerlandChristmas MarketsChateau d'Oex12th Dec departing Edinburgh for 3 nights B&B.........£379pp

(2 adults, upgrade to HB £54)

JerseyChristmas MarketsHotel Mayfair8th Dec departing Glasgowfor 3 Nights................£379pp

(based on 2 adults B&B)

beaverTravelbeaverTravel

(2 adults, upgrade to HB £54) (based on 2 adults B&B)

The Studio, The Dairy at Daviot, Daviot Estate, Daviot, Inverness IV2 5ER

Legal Will Writersof Moray

We offer a friendly professional and inexpensive service for Wills, Powers of

Attorney and Estate Management.

Free Information Pack - Home Visits

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BE INSPIRED TO CREATE & LEARNAll things paper crafting and beyond.

Papercrafts ELGIN& Creative OLDMELDRUM

www.sugarnellie.com

Regular classes and workshops

Papercrafts ELGINPapercrafts ELGIN& Creative OLDMELDRUM

Chef’s Confidential

recipe

Kris Mckie (Chef)The Royal Hotel, Elgin. Tel: 01343 542320

Smoked haddock & pea risotto, poached egg & lemon oil

Currently on our lunch menu, great lunch or supper dish, simply get the best smoked haddock you can, free range eggs, good quality rapeseed oil - the rest is easy!

Serves 4

Ingredients50g butter4 tbsp oil2 x large smoked haddock fillets, boned and cut into chunks4 x large free range eggs1 onion, finely diced2 tbsp garlic butter2 x cloves garlic, finely diced400g carnaroli risotto rice1 litre chicken stock1 tbsp creme fraiche or mascarpone2 tbsp grated parmesan and parmesan shavings to garnish75g frozen peasLemon rapeseed oil to garnish

MethodFor the risotto: 1. Melt the butter with oil. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes without browning. Add rice and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time. Gradually, add hot chicken stock, 250ml at a time. This should take around 12-17 minutes to cook. Set aside until needed. 2. Using a large saucepan, melt the garlic butter and add haddock. Cook for 2-3 minutes and add peas. Stir well and add risotto to the pan. Mix well and season with salt and pepper, if required. Stir in parmesan and creme fraiche.

Divide risotto between four bowls. Top with soft poached egg. Garnish with parmesan shavings, lemon oil and fresh barley. Enjoy!

18

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Winter is the season requiring most care and preparation if you're to stay safe and avoid a breakdown. Here's general advice from the AA for safe, trouble-free driving through the Winter.

Battery and electricsLights, heaters and wipers put high demands on the car battery and the battery will give out eventually. Avoid running electrical systems longer than necessary – turn heater fan down and heated rear window off once windows clear. Turn off electrical loads like lights, screen heaters and wipers before starting engine. Use the starter in five-second bursts if the engine doesn't start quickly, leaving time for battery to recover.

AntifreezeA squealing noise as soon as the engine starts is a sign the water pump is frozen - it's the fan belt slipping on the pulley. Stop the engine immediately and allow it to thaw out. If the car begins to overheat a few miles from home it's likely that the radiator has frozen. Stop to avoid serious damage and allow the radiator to thaw. You need a 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water in the cooling system for winter.

VisionKeep the windscreen and other windows clear. Clear snow from the roof as well as from windows as this can fall onto the windscreen obscuring your view. Dazzle from a low winter sun can be a real problem. Improve vision by making sure that the windscreen is clean both inside and out.

Check windscreen wipers and replace if necessary.Make sure that wipers are switched off when there's risk of freezing. Top up Windscreen washer fluid and treat with a suitable additive to reduce the chance of freezing.

VisibilityWhen roads are really mucky you might need to clean lights after every journey. If you have to clear snow from the car it's important to clear it from the lights too.You must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced.

TyresThe AA recommends at least 3mm of tread for winter motoring, and no less than 2mm. It's rare to need snow chains unless you live in an isolated area hit with heavy snow, and where the roads are not cleared. Consider changing to winter or all season tyres – these give better grip in cold wet conditions.

Before you goGet up at least 10 minutes early to prepare the car. Don't drive off like a tank-commander, with a tiny hole cleared in the windscreen. Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer.Use a cigarette lighter to warm a key for a frozen lock. Plan routes to favour major roads that are more likely to have been cleared and gritted.Put safety before punctuality when the bad weather closes in. Allow extra time and be prepared for the inevitability of being late for work due to unexpected delay.

Driving in snow and iceGentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving - stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow. Pull away in second gear to avoid wheel-spin.

Up hill - avoid having to stop part way up by waiting until it is clear of other cars. Keep a constant speed, avoid changing down on the hill.Down hill - reduce your speed before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid using the brakes. Apply brakes gently. Release brakes and de-clutch if car skids.Automatic transmission - in slippery conditions it's best to select '2', which limits gear changes and also makes you less reliant on brakes.

If you get stuck, straighten steering and clear snow from wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of driving wheels to give tyres some grip. Once on the move again, don’t stop until you reach firmer ground.

Better Motoringthis Winter

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