Spring 2012 - The Touler

The Touler
the voice of the community
Is su e N o . 5 3
Suggested Donation £1.00
SPR IN G 2 0 1 2
Photos of Capercaillie taken by Sheila Thompson on Cairn Diamh
Photo Competition
The cover photograph competition for the Summer Edition, due to be published in July 2012 should be “Wildlife in and
around Kirkmichael and Tomintoul”. Digital images should be sent in the highest resolution possible, please. Don’t forget
to tell us when and where the picture was taken. The winning picture will appear on the front of the Summer edition of the
Touler, and the photographer will receive a £20 prize. Digital images should be emailed to: [email protected] and
traditional prints sent to:
The Touler, c/o 11 Cults Drive, Tomintoul, Ballindalloch, AB37 9HW.
The easTer BonneT Parade
SPR IN G 2 0 1 2
ThE ToulER
[email protected]
Bruce Donald retires
Celebrating his retirement from Tomintoul Distillery after 15 years loyal
Donald of Stuart Place, Tomintoul.
Bruce is seen receiving gifts from his colleagues handed over by Nikki Bra
Inglis.
CaPTion ComPeTiTion
The wildlife in Tomintoul
has just got a bit wilder!
There is a prize of bottle
of wine for the best
caption to go with this
photograph.
The winning caption will
be in the next
edition....(along with the
best of the rest! )
All entries should be sent
[email protected] or
sent to:
The Touler, c/o 11 Cults Drive,
Tomintoul, Ballindalloch,
AB37 9HW.
36
Printed by Groverprint & Design, 01540 673848, [email protected]
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
Kirkmichael and Tomintoul Community Association
Notes from the meeting of the Kirkmichael and
Tomintoul Community Association [KATCA]
Meeting, 15th February 2012.
Eighteen people attended the meeting.
The
position
of
KATCA
Company
Secretary/Treasurer.
Chris Haworth is to resign from the posts before the
A.G.M in May. There is, therefore, a need to appoint
a new person to these positions.
Olympic Torch.
The torch will pass through Tomintoul on 11th June
at approximately 1.30pm. The All Moray Choir will
perform in the centre of the village. The torch will be
followed by a convoy; this will be marshalled by
Grampian Police. Tomintoul Primary School will
organise a mini-Olympics, with events taking place at
a range of venues around the village.
The Queen’s Jubilee.
This takes place on 3rd June. There will be a range of
events in the area including; tree planting, a beacon
on Ben Rinnes and a number of activities at
Ballindalloch Castle. On May 27th the Crown is to
organize the planting of a ‘Diamond woodland’.
The Regeneration of Tomintoul and Glenlivet.
Consultation on the initial planning officially closed
on 13th February. The next meeting on the
Regeneration Plan is to take place on February 20th.
Sally Reid, KATCA Chair, gave out a strong message
with regard to being positive and supporting the plan.
She said that the plan has many good ideas, the village
is in decline and we need to embrace change. The
refurbishment of the Richmond Hotel is a very
positive development. A caravan site is proposed; this
was well supported and, hopefully, will be open by
summer 2013. A number of people spoke to express
their concerns with regard to the involvement of the
Crown in the regeneration initiative.
The road resurfacing of the lower village is to be
checked out, you may remember that this was
projected to take place in 2011 and appears to have
disappeared from the Council agenda for
improvement of our village.
Spring Clean
Pam Fletcher is to organise a village “Spring Clean”,
to follow on from the one in 2011. Information will be
posted in local venues.
The next meeting will take place on 23rd May, this
will be the A.G.M. Everyone is welcome to attend
with the election of officers being a major agenda
item, with special attention to the post of Company
Secretary/Treasurer.
Memorial Hall Update
Following the Richmond Memorial Hall Committee
AGM on the 26th of January, I have taken over from
Anita as Hall Secretary and will now be handling
bookings and enquiries.
You can contact me on 01807580301 or email
[email protected].
Kitchen facilities within the hall have been upgraded,
with the installation of a commercial dishwasher and
range style six plate/large oven electric cooker,
making the venue much more suitable for catered
events. We look forward to taking many more
bookings as a result!
Jennifer Fraser
Wife by text to husband at work :"Windows at home frozen - what will I do?"
Husband :- "Spray some de-icer, or pour
warm water on them!"
Wife :- 15 minutes later :- "Done that, now
computer won't work at all.
2
The Touler is produced by a duly elected team of the Kirkmichael & Tomintoul Community Association
[email protected]
The Touler
Speyside Community Car Share
Scheme
Richmond Arms Hotel Update
At the last KATCA meeting, a representative
of the new owners of The Richmond Arms
Hotel, Mr Toby Wingfield-Digby, was asked
if Mr Paget would give a development update
on the hotel. Unfortunately Mr and Mrs paget
were in Australia, but they authorised the
following information to be given, and have
promised a further update for the next
edition.
It was a sad start to the year for the Car Share
Scheme when one of the founders and a long
standing member of the committee, Alistair
Taylor, passed away. He was a much admired,
hardworking and valued member of the Scheme
and will be sadly missed.
This year has brought some other changes too.
Dorothy, another founder, has given up her
position as Co-ordinator and joined the
committee instead. Her hard work over the years
has made a huge contribution to the success of
the Scheme and it’s a comfort to know that she is
still there as a mentor to dispense her special
brand of level-headed, sound advice. One more
change completes the committee with Jane Riley
being appointed as the new Secretary.
The Scheme continues to grow all the time with
new members and we are fortunate to have
secured the services of a new driver. Irene Shaw
has been appointed as the new Co-ordinator but
everything else remains ‘Business as usual’.
The AGM has been arranged for Wednesday 6th
June at 7.30pm in the Station Tea Rooms in
Aberlour. Anyone with an interest in the Scheme
is invited to attend.
If you live in Rothes, Aberlour, Dufftown,
Glenlivet, Tomintoul, or the surrounding areas
and you have difficulty getting around because
of age, disability or infirmity then we might be
able to help
Jane Riley (Secretary)
‘Phone: 01807580454
email: [email protected]
The Richmond Arms Hotel will open
providing they can get sufficient funds from
the regeneration project. If they are not
successful in raising funds, the hotel will go
on the market again as it is.
The plan for The Gordon Arms will be to
seek permission for change of usage.
Mr Henry Paget is very keen to make this
project ‘user friendly’ for the Tomintoul
community, and is fully engaged with The
Regeneration Project. He will be happy to
keep everyone in the picture as the project
progresses.
SPEYSIDE CO M M UNITY CAR SHARE SCHEM E
Telephone 01340 831 748 Between 9.00am5.00pm (Mon.-Fri.)
and speak to one of our volunteer
telephonists who will give you all the
information about eligibility for becoming a
member
If you have some spare time and would like
to become a volunteer driver then please
ring Irene
on 01340 832 350 for details and an
application package.
Spring 2012
Supply, Erection & Cladding
of all types of Steel Framed
Agricultural,
Industrial,
& Personal Properties.
All types of Roof Repairs & Snow Boards also undertaken
Tel: 01479 821793 Mob: 0773 496 8382
Email: [email protected]
3
Spring 2012
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The Touler
Church News
Tomintoul, Glenlivet & Inveravon Church of
Scotland
Scottish Charity Number SC001802
Sunday Worship
Inveravon Church 9.30am Tomintoul Church
11.15am.
Inveravon Church
Phase one of the restoration work at Inveravon
Church is now complete. The project has been
a great success and we are grateful to the
funding bodies and to the tradesmen for their
support and co-operation.
Phase two of the work at Inveravon, which is
mainly repair work, is expected to commence
soon.
Tomintoul Church
The Property Committee continues to work
with the Architects, preparing plans and
making grant applications for the, now, urgent
repair work needed on Tomintoul Church.
At this moment in time, we still have no
Minister of our own. The Rev. J.MacEwan is
our Interim Moderator during the vacancy.
However, we were recently informed by The
Church of Scotland in Edinburgh, that we have
permission to call a new Minister. The lengthy,
formal, process of forming a Nominating
Committee has been commenced and, indeed,
a Nominating Committee was elected at the
Annual Stated Meeting, which took place on
20th March at Inveravon Church.
So we have exciting times ahead with,
hopefully, some suitable candidates to choose
from. I will keep you informed as we progress
through the process.
Meantime, we continue to have regular
Sunday Worship as above.
If anyone requires the services of a Minister,
this can be arranged by contacting any of the
following,
Rev.J.MacEwan
01479 821280
Alec Grant Session Clerk
01807 580268
Margo Stuart Treasurer
01807 580239
There are still some 21012 Church calendars
available. Please contact Uschi MacIntosh on
01807 580309 or any of the above if you wish
to purchase one.
L i b r a ry T i M E S
Monday
1.30pm to 3.30pm
and
6pm to 7.30pm
Tuesday
1.30pm to 3.30pm
Wednesday
10am to 12 noon
Thursday
6pm to 7.30pm
Friday
1.30pm to 3.30pm
Don’t forget you can always phone
during these hours to renew your books,
place a reservation on a book you fancy
reading or to book time on the People’s
Network Internet computers.
Our number is
4
01807 580755
[email protected]
The Touler
Spring 2012
Cnoc-Lochy Well
For as long as I can remember, and for a long time
before tha, the Iron Well on Cnoc Lochy has been used
as a mineral spa. In the past people used to visit the
village to partake of the waters from the mineral wells
situated in the vicinity. I was therefore somewhat
dismayed to learn that the wood in which the well is
situated was to be totally felled.
I contacted the Crown Estates to establish what
arrangements had been made to ensure that the well
was protected only to learn that they were not aware of
its existence. However, they did say that if it could be
marked then they would take steps to ensure that it
was not planted over. The problem was that the people
who had been felling the trees were unaware of the
existence of this well, therefore, did not exercise care
when cutting in its vicinity.
On talking with another resident who is aware of its
location it was confirmed that the well was channelled
by two sleepers and had, in the past, supported a cup
attached by a chain at the wellhead to facilitate
partaking of the waters. He advised that he had been
to look and suggested that it was possibly covered by
hag as there did not appear to be a lot of heavy
machinery tracks near the well. However, what to do
next? I knew that the Crown’s forester was aware of
the situation and was sympathetic to protecting the site
in the future, but action was required to establish the
exact location before too long and the situation had
deteriorated.
I mentioned the well to Steve Sacs and he said that
he would have a look for it next time he was walking
up that way. I tried to explain where it was, but when
I next spoke to him he said he did not understand my
directions, so we decided to go to look for it the
following day. The weather was gorgeous, and Steve
and myself, along with five dogs, set off.
My recollection of the positioning of the well is
arrived at by walking up from the Conglass past what
is left of one of the original settlements created prior
to the village of Tomintoul being created in 1785. The
well is situated about 6 yards in from the fence.
When we got to the location we searched for it and
eventually found a sheen on the water akin to oil. We
prodded around the vicinity and eventually hit a hard
surface. Steve was a bit more adventurous than me
and probed the area with his hand. He said that he
could feel a flat surface with a corner. This could
probably be one of the sleepers. We marked the site
and then continued to walk back through the now cut
plantation towards the Campdelmore road and then
home.
I have since been in touch with the Crown and,
hopefully, before too long, I will visit the site with the
Ranger and discuss how to tackle the situation so that
the well will run once again and people can partake of
the waters as it was known in Victorian times.
I will report further on what progress is being made.
5
Spring 2012
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The Touler
Tomintoul SWRI
To begin the New Year we held
our annual Burns Supper. Pam
Fletcher carried the haggis, Irene
Duffus said the grace and Ann
Wraight addressed the haggis.
After toasting the Bard we enjoyed a lovely
meal catered for by our members. The evening
continued with poems, singing and games and
Helen Sheed playing the organ. The meeting
was closed with everyone singing ‘Auld Lang
Syne’.
President Ann Wraight welcomed everyone to
our February meeting, where members Jean
Cameron and Jenny Cowley went on to
demonstrate the art of making sugar paste
flowers. Members then had to use their skills to
make a daisy and carnation. Our efforts
were then judged, tea served, business
discussed and the meeting closed.
party. After a lovely buffet with cheese and
wine provided for by members,
‘Happy Birthday
Tomintoul SWRI’
Sandra Sawyer introduced games and Maggie
Boyd judged the bulbs.
Pink Hyacinths- Pam Fletcher, Blue Hyacinths1st Sandra Sawyer, 2nd Irene Duffus, TulipsIrene Duffus,
Amaryllis- Molly Bruce. Flowering plant- Ann
Wraight. The birthday cake made by Jean
Cameron was cut by Irene Duffus. The
Knitted premature baby hats (hats and bootees
which were later donated to baby unit in Dr
Grays Hospital):
1st Sandra Sawyer, 2nd Meg Smith, 3rd Irene
Duffus.
Sugar paste flowers: 1st Francis Cruckshank,
2nd equal Jean Birchall and Irene Duffus.
March was our 36th birthday. President Ann
Wraight welcomed all members to our annual
Firewood & Woodchip
07778129477
president thanked members for providing food,
the cake and Maggie for judging the bulbs and
plants.
Our meetings are held on the 1st
Wednesday of each month, usually
in the Day Centre at Tomnabat
Court. Please come along and join
us, have a cup of tea /coffee and a
blether.
Future Meetings are:
4th April: Mhairi Ross from The
Craft Lounge, Grantown on Spey.
2nd May: AGM
Irene Duffus
Press Secretary
6
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The Touler
Spring 2012
E Electric Pylons
A wis watchin e mannies onna e electric
pylons inna e park at e Miller his alow e Lecht
Road an a jist thoucht til masel A can min
fan they gied up.
Er wisna electric in Tomintoul till
1951. Maist fowk eest til work cannles
or Tilly Lamps an e fire tae heat water.
Some, though nae mony, hid a gas stove
fir cookin but maist hid jist e fire. Some
fowk hid a range that brunt peats or wid
an er wis an oven at e side o e fire. Ithers
jist hid a binkie at e side an a swye wi
pots an a kettle hingin fae hit. Er wisna
mony roast denners in my young day if ye
hidna an oven er wis nae roast mate.
E hotels an e shops hid a plant an some
o e ootlyin fairms didna get mains
electric until nae sae lang sine. E cost o
pittin it intil e hooses wis gie steep an e
thocht at ey wid jist work awa wi and engine.
Bit A wis til spik aboot e pylons. Ey gied up
afore e power cam til e village an maist o e
boys wa vrocht on em wis Irish or fae e Sooth.
LINDSAY JACK & SON
- FUNERAl DIRECTORS -
Serving the communities of
Badenoch and Strathspey with a
complete Funeral Service
Funerals ~ Memorials ~ Funeral Plans
24-hour personal service assured
Telephone
(01479) 872442
2010 Hig
Tues, 11
ramble
at Lech
Coire Bhrochain, Rhuarden Court,
Grantown on Spey, PH26 3DA
www.jackfuneraldirectors.co.uk
Ey workit in a kin o weather nae dachlin much
at ony time.
A min fan er wis a bookie o Poems
aboot e Toul at wis selt tae get siller for e
streets lichts about 1950. Cooncilor
Irvine got it up an A’ve nae doot at mony
o e auler fowk, like masel, still hae copies
o it.
Fan e mannies wis takin doon e wires
fae a distance ey jist lookit lik flees onna
a bit o girse. Ey wis richt oot at e eyn o
e spars whiles hingin affa em. A some
thocht as e wis gey brave but at is er job.
It’ll be an awfa change fan e pylons
come doon athegither as ey hiv bin pert o
e landscape lang sine. In fac fan Jean
Davisdon an her son-in-law got stuck in
e snaw at Corriechullie an e helicopter
boys brocht em hame ey askit o Donald
fit wis e wye an he telt em tae follow e pylons
an at wid take em tae Tomintoul. Fan ey come
doon at wye o findin directions winna be
available bit things hae moved on a lot since
the wi GPS an aa.
E wither his bin real kin tae e mannies at
vrocht at e wires as er his bin hardly ony snaw
is winter. Nae lik e last twa ear bit it hisna aa
bin guid. E fowk at e Lecht an e ither Ski
Centres hae hid a teuch time o it. An nae doot
we’ll suffer for nae haein snaw as er’ll be nae
waater. E last time it wis as open a winter wis
aboot 15ear ago an some o e stills hid tae close
early fir close season.
A see at e birds hae come back early an some
o em are stertin tae pair up. Some early tae ma
min bit maybi ey kin things at we dinna bit A
hae kent a monys a big storm in April fan we
cuid dee wioot hit.
Weel ats enugh o ma haverins for ive noo. A
whiles think at it might bi a guid thing if ithers
o ma era vreet a bit aboot ey’r stories o lang
sine. A’m getting auler an canna aye min e
same.
The Orra Loon
7
Spring 2012
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The Touler
The Touler Questionnaire
1. Which world or national
event has left the greatest
impression on you?
9/11. Such a barbaric act to
people who may have been
sympathisers to their cause.
2. Name three dinner guests
you would like to have, from
any period of time.
Billy Connolly, Albert Einstein and Diana ,
Princess of Wales.
3. What is your favourite TV programme
and film?
Dancing on ice. And the lord of the rings.
4. Your favourite drink?
Malt Whisky
5. Favourite music?
Classical, but my favourite sond is “because
you loved me” by Celine Dion. Very
poignant.
6. Favourite food/meal?
Venison
7. Favourite town or city?
It used to be Edinburgh, but
since the tram works has ruined it,
it is now Inverness, but I don’t
like big cities much at all.
8. Locally favourite place/s?
Queen’s view on the countryside walk.
9. Your pets?
West highland white terriers.
10. Most embarrassing moment?
Remembering people’s names. I’m dreadful
Fred.
11. Favourite holiday place?
The Isle of Skye.
12. Somewhere you would love to visit.
The Great Wall of China.
13. Desert island, name three things you
would take?
My wife, a fishing rod and a boat. It gives
you a few options.
14. The last book you read and your
favourite book?
May Contain Nuts by John O’Farrell and Is
It Me by Terry Wogan.
15. Your hobby?
It has to be bowls, but I love athletics
having almost qualifying for the Olympics
long jump. I was just too short, about 21
feet too short in fact.
16. If you could have lived in another time,
when would it be and why?
I think the modern era with it’s
technological changes is very challenging
and therefore my favourite.
8
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The Touler
Spring 2012
Association of Cairngorms Communities
There was a meeting of the ACC on Tuesday 5th
March at the Lecht. Unfortunately I was not able to
attend however the meeting was very interesting
Di Alexander, Affordable Housing Officer with
CNPA, outlined the different options for providing
affordable housing. While funding has been reduced
there are ways in obtaining affordable housing
especially for smaller communities and our area is
included in this.
There is a new Cairngorm Design Award for buildings
within the Park commencing in April. Information
can be found on the CNPA web site.
CNPA Update. Various topics were covered including
the Strengthening Communities Project which aims to
support communities in Badenoch and Strathspey to
generate income streams with a view to becoming
more sustainable and less reliant on grants and
creating local employment opportunities.
Sustainable Tourism There had been a meeting on
25th January when a discussion on Park Wide Visitor
Payback Initiative unfortunately there was no way
forward consensus agreed. Apart from the words
tourism tax and bed tax should be avoided. The only
acceptable Payback option appeared to be car parking
charges where appropriate. The work in the
Sustainable Tourism action plan is continuing and the
next meeting will be on 23rd May.
A man is involved in a motorway pile
up. When he wakes up he gets the
bad news from his doctor that he
has lost his willy. The better news is
that he has been awarded £9000
insurance compensation and a new
willy can be built for the cost of
£1000 per inch. He has to discuss
this with his wife. The next day he is
able to tell the doctor that a
decision has been made.
The couple are going to have granite
work surfaces for their kitchen!!!
It was decided that cycling in general rather that solely
Mountain Biking be encouraged
There is a Landscape Toolkit available on CNPA web
site to give further information regards planning in the
Park.
The Olympic Torch will pass through Tomintoul on
11th June and there will be a mini Olympics hosted by
the local schools.
The Scottish Government is currently consulting about
‘remote communities’ and those living in such areas
are encouraged to take part. Access to the document
is via the Scottish Government’s web site.
Roger Clegg and Claire Ross outlined the Cairngorms
Community Council/Association Planning Network
which is designed to improve the CNPA’s Planning
Service. The membership would be the designated
planning representative for each Community
Council/Association who would meet biannually with
CNPA Planning officials and others, eg Local
Authority planners It is hoped that as many planning
reps as possible from Ccs and Cas will attend the
inaugural meeting of the Cairngorms Community
Council/Association Planning Network in the morning
and then the AoCC meeting will follow after lunch and
include the AGM on Wednesday 30th May 2012 at the
Lecht.
SNIPPETS
Conservationists are
considering cloning the
last 400 pure Scottish
wildcats to increase
numbers.
From The Sunday Times.
9
Spring 2012
The Touler
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To m in t o u l a n d Glen livet R egen era tio n
Project
Tomintoul & Glenlivet Regeneration Project Partner Update February/March 2012
Work undertaken during February/March
Masterplan - The Draft Masterplan was subject
to consultation from 30th January to 13th
February. A Summary Report of the feedback
received has been compiled and circulated. The
plan is now being revised and the Steering Group
have been asked for any further comments.
Community Development Trust – Public
meetings took place on 20th February and 12th
March to discuss the potential for a Tomintoul and
Glenlivet Community Development Trust (CDT).
A working group has now been established to draw
up Mem. And Arts. for the Trust. Funding Support
for a Regeneration Officer for the CDT has been
confirmed from CNPA and The Moray Council.
HIE have also indicated that they will support the
project and discussions are underway with The
Crown Estate. Notes of public meetings can be
found online at http://www.cairngorms.co.uk/livework/regeneration-project/.
10
Expected progress for March/April
Regeneration Strategy, Action Plan and Master
plan – The Steering Group will provide final
comment on the revised Master plan and
discussions will take place with the Project Board
and key partners as to how the Master plan,
Regeneration Strategy and Action Plan will be
taken forward. Delivery of the proposals in the
plan will be for the community to decide, and will
be taken forward by the Community Development
Trust, with support from partners.
Community Development Trust - The working
group will meet to establish Mem. And Arts. for
the CDT and to take this forward to be
incorporated with Companies House and
registered as a charity. Work will also be
undertaken to gather membership and identify
potential Directors for the Trust and to finalise
funding for an officer. Initial work on a job
description and person specification for the
Regeneration Officer will be completed and plans
for the recruitment and selection process
undertaken. For more information contact
[email protected].
Update on other activities
Signage and Visitor Information at lecht Road
lay-by/entrance to Tomintoul and Glenlivet –
Consultation on the Master plan indicated strong
support for improvements to be made to the layby, visitor information and signage provided on
the approach to Tomintoul and Glenlivet from the
Lecht Road end. CNPA have secured additional
funding to support this, and are working with The
Crown Estate to upgrade the lay-by, visitor
information and signage. CNPA and The Crown
Estate will liaise with the community and local
businesses on this project. The aim is to encourage
visitors to stop and find out more about what the
village and wider area has to offer. It is hoped that
the design and information can be rolled out to
other key sites in the area. For more information
please contact [email protected] .
Olympic Torch – The Olympic Torch will pass
through Tomintoul at 13:32 on Monday 11th June
on its way from Grantown-on-Spey to Balmoral.
Members of the local community are keen to have
an event on the day, and CNPA are having initial
discussions with them to look at possible ideas.
The local school is also working on an event, as is
the Moray Council, and we will be working to
ensure these elements are all co-ordinated. If you
are interested in getting involved please contact
[email protected]
The Touler
[email protected] ASAP.
landscape Partnership Bid - The CNPA are
working with partners to submit a bid for funding
to the Heritage Lottery Fund Landscape
Partnership Programme for the Tomintoul and
Glenlivet area. The partnership must include
community groups and be for the benefit of the
landscape and community, and it is anticipated
that there would be a strong leadership role for the
emerging CDT. If successful, the bid could help
provide for long-term social, economic and
environmental benefits for the area.
For
more
information
please
contact
[email protected]
The Torch
olympic Torch relay 2012
The olympic torch for the
london
2012
olympic
games will make a 70 day
journey across the whole of
the united Kingdom carried
by 8000 people and visiting over 1000 cities,
towns
and
villages
(www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay)
Spring 2012
the occasion. The local primary schools are
holding a mini olympic games, the torch will
be greeted by the Moray high Choir which
is being assembled for the event, the local
businesses are hoping to arrange
sponsored food and drink stands plus some
music and are investigating other attractions
to bring people to Tomintoul for the day. it is
a marvellous chance for the people of
Tomintoul to celebrate the pride we have in
the lovely village in which we live and
display this to the wider public and media.
The local community are cordially invited to
support and participate in the events on the
day and all ideas or suggestions that you
have regarding this event will be warmly
welcomed.
please contact Mark ranner (local leader
for the olympic Torch relay in Tomintoul via
glentorets B+B tel 01807 580760 or email
[email protected]).
The logistics of running the event are still in
the early planning stages but we will
endeavour to keep everyone informed as
more details become available.
Tomintoul is honoured to be part of the
olympic Torch relay and will host the torch
on 11th June at around 13:30. The torch will
be carried up the Main Street from the Stuart
place turning to the lecht road, preceded 20
minutes earlier by the olympic sponsor’s
convoy. it is envisaged therefore that Main
Street will be closed to through traffic for 1-2
hours and that parking on this road will also
be restricted during this time for safety and
security reasons.
The village is the only one in Moray that the
torch will be paraded through and as such it is
an ideal opportunity to raise the profile of the
village and region across Scotland and
possibly the uK. in order to achieve this, the
community and all other interested parties
need to work closely together to support the
event and make it a special day for the
village.
Moray Council, the Cairngorm national park
Authority, and the local community and
schools are planning events to help celebrate
11
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
THE WIZARD OF OZ
Tomintoul new Theatre gave
us yet another splendid
production in December with
their production of the Wizard
of oz.
Joan Milne was a convincing
Dorothy, supported, in excellent
style, by richard ellor as the
Tin Man. Debbie price was an
appealing lion and lesley
Bongard was an intelligent
Scarecrow, with ewan Asher as Dorothy’s
devoted dog.
paul owen as Aunt emmalina was his usual
outrageous pantomime, larger than life figure!
gill Smith’s Wicked Witch was superbly played
with the most convincing evil cackle. glinda
was strongly played by Francesca rothery with
beautiful singing.
Witchet and Wotchet, played by Shirley
Keith and ian Wilson, once again demonstrated
their huge comedy talent, which only gets
better by the year.
They were all admirably supported by Billy
Buttons-Jim Simmons, Captain- Craig Asher,
Wizard-Maria Simpson, guardian-ruth
Metcalfe, Simon Trowel-Julie Simpson and the
Citizens-lauren evans and gemma Sheed.
The Munchkins, Abby Davison, Abbie
Mcgillivray, Kyle Bruce, rebecca Finnie, lydia
Abdy, ruth Metcalfe and ros Tansley were
delightful and their dancing
was excellent.
The wonderful scenery was
done by Dawn Davison, Julianne
irvine, Abby, Sarah and hannah.
The Munchkin backdrop
brightens up the hall no end. (it
would be nice to see it kept
there)
Tremendous work by
backstage helpers:
Costumes-ros and cast, props- Tomintoul
nursery, Curtains-Tracy Abdy, Make up-Dawn,
emily Taylor and Julie green, lights-iain
Simpson, Sound-Barry horning,
promptMargo Stuart, Door-Sheila Mackinnon,
raffle-Jenny herschell and Jane riley,
photocopying-School. Also thanks to the post
office for selling tickets, and last, but not least,
Bob for hall services.
A very important part is played by the Band,
neil robertson, Bobby Taylor and Steven
Mathieson. And, of course, there would be no
pantomime without the producer, elaine
herschell.
it is very nice to see some new faces,
especially young ones, in the cast.
May you all go from strength to strength.
Thank you
CHARITY
CONCERT/CEILIDH
Mortlach Memorial Hall
Friday 27th April, 7.30
Music by Donal Ring & his
Ceilidh Band
Tickets £5
Proceeds to the Speyside
Community Car Share Scheme.
12
[email protected]
The Touler
Desert Island Discs
For this edition, we thank one of our
younger readers for sending her selection
of currently favourite songs for publication.
Black Stone Cherry
In My Blood
The lyrics are good and have great meaning, it’s
catchy too.
You, Me at Six
liquid Confidence
This is a catchy love song.
You, Me at Six
No-one Does it Better
This is a great, new song. The tune and lyrics are
good.
One Direction
What Makes You Beautiful
This song makes everyone feel better about
themselves. It lifts their self-esteem....(my mum likes
it too!)
Asking Alexandria
To The Stage
This is a good, catchy song to listen to when you’re in
the car.
Falling in Reverse
Raised by Wolves
This is new, with a good, catchy tune.
Mayday Parade
When I Get Home, You’re
So Dead
This is catchy, and the lyrics have good meaning.
Listen to it on replay.
If you would like to your desert island discs to be in
a future edition, please send them to us titled ‘Desert
Island Discs’at [email protected]
Spring 2012
Friday Quiz Night
In November 2011, we hosted our first pub
quiz night and it was a brilliant success. We
managed to raise £89 for the children's
Community Christmas Party.
Due to the success of the evening we
decided to make it a monthly event with all
monies raised being donated to local groups.
From the December quiz, we donated £117
to the school, from the January quiz, we
raised £87 for the bowling club and in
February we raised £107 for the football
team.
This is all down to the excellent turn out of
people who attended the quiz and the sale
of raffle tickets that we hold at the end of
the quiz. The raffle prizes were kindly
donated by Mark and Sheona and other
members of the community.
The quiz can get lively at times, with the
teams and the quizmaster (being myself),
sometimes disagreeing over answers, but it
all adds to the fun of the night.
We tend to try and hold the quiz on the last
Friday of every month. We have posters in
the pub and post office to advertise the quiz
in plenty of time, in the hope of letting our
regular teams know; and also maybe
enticing some new teams to come along.
It's a good fun way to spend an evening
and we would like to invite you all to come
and try one yourself- you never know you
could be the next quiz champions, and it
also gives a much needed boost to local
groups and projects.
Lisa
MASS TIMES
FOR CATHOlIC
CHURCHES
Tomintoul, Tombae and
Chapeltown every third
Sunday in turns at 9.30am
Dufftown and Aberlour
at 5pm Saturday
Parish Priest: Rev. C.M. Stewart
Times of morning Masses
during the week vary.
These can be obtained by
telephoning 01807 580381
13
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
news from
Tomintoul primary School
P4’sMovie
“Be Healthy” won an Oscar!
Tomintoul Primary P4’s made a movie about healthy
eating. It was entered into a film competition for primary
school films, organised by the Kingussie Food on Film
Festival.
Animation
Megan Davison, Zoe Stuart, Colin Marshall and John
McKechnie took on the challenge of making an animated
film. The children in P4 invented characters. In the
Healthy Gang there are Carol Carrot, Tom Tomato, Baby
Banana and Suzy Strawberry. In the Unhealthy Gang are
Choccy Chocolate, Moody Marsbar, Donna Donut and Candy Floss. They were made out of
plasticine and cocktail sticks. P4 wrote out the story
which was inspired by Megan’s much admired book
“The Chip Family and the Apple Family”. The
backdrops for the film came from pictures on the
internet. A webcam and a laptop were used to take
pictures of the model characters. Then the pictures
were put in the right order. For the sound P4 used
funny voices, tapping and musical instruments to do
the sound. They also invented a healthy rap for the
beginning of the film.
Oscar Night
It was held in Kingussie High School. There was a
big screen, red
carpet and tables
with candles. Drinks were served.
The P4’s that were able to attend and their families were able
to see films from the other schools. They were quite good and
some were funny. There was a film with a shooting banana, and
one with children singing. Mrs Mitchell’s son was in some of
the films and they were good.
Megan and John went up to get the 0scar and everybody took
pictures of us.
14
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The Touler
S2 YOUNG ENGINEERS
In a competition to encourage students to think about careers
using science, technology, engineering and maths Speyside High
School entered two teams. Team 1 worked on a Biomass project
and was composed of: Allan Black, Allister Duncan, Adam
Fishwick, Duncan Lauder, Scott Low, Kieran MacPherson,
Jasmine Mainland and Adam Walker. Team 2 worked on a
Water Management project and its members were: Aidan Baillie,
Nathan Christie, Kieran Darroch, Connor Donald, Bartec
Godon, Cameron Grant and Aaron O’Hara. Speyside Team 1
won the Students Choice Award and the Best Team Work Award
plus a cheque for £100. Bartec Godon also won the best picture
for what an engineer looks like! A very successful day for
Speyside High School. Both teams have been complimented on
their presentations, effort and behaviour and are a credit to the
school.
SAINSBURY SCHOOL GAMES, LONDON 6-9 MAY 2012
Emma Bowie (S4) has been selected by the Scottish Schools
Athletics Association to represent Scotland in the Sainsbury’s
School Games at the Olympic Stadium.This is for Under 17 age
athletes comprising of 8 teams, 5 from England and 1 each from
Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
A group of pupils represented the school at a tree planting
ceremony in Aberlour to mark the Queen’s accession to the
throne. Joining Mrs Claire Russell, Lord Lieutenant of
Banffshire and other members of the community, were Lee
Ferguson, Molly Melville, Jonathan Scott, Francesca Rothery
and Douglas Connell. Katrina Adams presented Mrs Russell
with the new Aberlour Bicentennial Fishing Fly and Brooch
designed by pupils of Speyside High School. Our school
photographer, Andrew Johnson, captured the event. A letter
from Aberlour Community Council commended the young
people as “……perfect ambassadors for the school.”
MERIT AWARDS
Congratulations to Livet pupils: Aaron Anderson, Ewan Asher,
Bartek Godon, Cameron Grant, Rebecca Howie, Leanne Rodgers
and Becky Ryrie, all of Livet who have earned Bronze Merit
certificates for hard work and effort in a variety of subjects.
Congratulations to Fiddich pupils: Antonia Glass and Fleur
Jackson who have earned Gold Merit certificates; Lizzie Fraser,
Asia McGill, Jasmine Mainland and Tamara Younie who have
earned Silver Merit certificates; Abby Davidson, Max Duffus,
Archie Duncan, Morgan McLaren and Megan Williams who
have earned Bronze Merit certificates for hard work and effort
in a variety of subjects.
RETIREMENT
The retirement of Mr Stanley Johnston, Head Janitor, took place
on Thursday. Stan’s service was acknowledged at a special
whole school assembly where he was presented with a certificate
by the school’s youngest pupil, Kirsten Hendry. At the end of
his final day Stan was piped from the school to his house.
Everyone at Speyside High School wishes Stan a long and
happy retirement.
Spring 2012
INSTRUMENTAL PLAYERS
We have received leaflets for the Scottish Schools Orchestra
Trust (www.sscot.org.uk). This is a residential activity holiday
for 9-15 year olds from Grade 2 to Grade 8 level. It will be held
in Queen Victoria School, Dunblane on 9-15 July, 2012. If you
are interested in this, pick up a leaflet from the Music
Department practice rooms.
BASKETBALL
Zeki Basan was recently ranked the top Highland player in trials
and selected for the National basketball team to represent
Scotland at the European championships in Sweden in May.
SCHOOL CALENDAR COMPETITION
This year the school is going to produce a calendar containing
photographs taken by pupils of the Speyside Area. Pupils are
invited to submit any photographs for autumn and winter. Prizes
will be awarded for winning photographs. For more information
speak to Mr Picksley. Photos can be handed into the school
office or emailed to [email protected].
WORLD MATHS DAY
The 7 March was World Maths Day and all first and second year
pupils took part in the online activities. Pupils competed against
schools from across the world. S2 pupil Antonia Glass gained
the highest overall score for our school
RUGBY
Congratulations to the Speyside High Junior Rugby team who
won their first ever inter-school match on Wednesday 14 March:
119 points to 17. Thank you to all those who came to support
the match it was great to see.
TESCO VOUCHERS
The Support for Learning Department needs your help again to
collect Tesco vouchers for school equipment and materials.
Boxes are placed outside the office and in the library for you to
deposit your vouchers.
ROAD SAFETY
Parents and carers are asked to speak to their children about
keeping themselves and other road users safe when in Aberlour
at lunchtimes. There have been some ‘near misses’ recently and
all pupils have been instructed to exercise great care when
crossing roads around the village.
MERIT CERTIFICATES
Congratulations to Emma Nicol, Chloe Anderson, Shona
Bothwell, Becky Ryrie, Mikey MacGregor and Michael Swan,
all of Livet House who have earned their Bronze Merit
certificates. Livet House members Carla Devaney, Lizzie
Fraser, Tommy Barclay, Lee Ferguson, Kirstin Hendry and Jodie
Esson have been awarded their Silver Merit certificates for good
work and effort in school. Special congratulations go to Natasha
Hendry of Livet House who has earned her Gold Merit
certificate. Well done and congratulations to every one who has
earned credit stamps and certificates this week.
15
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Pesky Unsolicited Telephone Calls
Are you like me? deaved with the
telephone calls that come every day,
sometimes late at night, about how to
claim for personal accident or
mis­sold payment protection
on credit cards or loans?
I know that most of us ay
one time or another have had
a loan and most of us have a
credit card, but surely we are
able to decide whether or not payment
protection is to our benefit. Unless the
loan was obtained other than a face to
face interview, the fact that there was
probably insurance cover included, was
visible on the quotation and the actual
loan form, and it would have been
covered during the interview.
Credit Cards may be a little different,
but we should all read the SMALL
PRINT and not just accept terms and
conditions, as most of us do, especially
when doing something on­line.
The latest one I have
been
subjected
to
is
personal injury.
After
receiving at least a dozen
of these calls I decided to
ask
for
further
information. The next one
I received I followed the
instructions
to
find
out
more
information.
When the operator
answered he asked how he could be of
assistance, as I had called them. I
stated that they had called me and
asked where they had got their
information. At this point there was a
very abrupt response stating that I
would be removed from the data base.
Whilst I am glad that this action has
been taken I am still none the wiser as
to where the information was sourced,
nor to the possible incident to which
they refer.
I am aware that there is a lot of
information available from many
different sources, as to people’s
personal details, but it would appear
that these are random selections and if
you do not take steps to stop the calls,
then they will continue possible in
perpetuity.
It seems to me to be a little like the
scam mail shots advising that you may
have won a small fortune or those
regarding windows which is currently
on the go.
High quality art scanning
& printing to a1 size
I am aware that we do not all
possess the same level of computer
literacy but always be wary of
“Philistines Bearing Gifts”, and do not
be drawn into something that you feel
uncomfortable with and DO NOT PAY
FOR ANYTHING ON LINE UNLESS YOU
ARE SURE WHAT YOU ARE PAYING
FOR.
A very fed up and wary Touler.
16
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The Touler
Very Odd Behaviour!
The photo accompanying this article shows a
number of full dog poo bags which are being
dropped/suspended around the village.
Certainly odd!
Why would a person clean up after their dog
and then dump the collection?
Is it a statement to indicate the lack of dog
bins?
It is true that there are not enough bins spread
around the village for dog waste, however,
most people simply take the bag to the nearest
receptacle on their route.
A pragmatic and sensible response to gain
more bins would be to harangue The Council
or by raising the issue at a Community
Association meeting.
To throw the full bags on to the ground or to
suspend them in trees points to some sort of
mental deficiency. It is a filthy thing to do and
a danger to children and others. I know that
this is not a pleasant subject for publication
but the person[s] responsible simply must stop
this disgusting behaviour.
The message needs to go home loud and
clear to someone that their behaviour is
offensive, hazardous and extremely odd.
Spring 2012
Tomintoul Gardening
Club
Tomintoul Gardening Club began the new
year with the first meeting being held at
Tomnabat Centre on Thursday 29th March.
We are non- competitive and meet on the
last Thursday of each month from March to
October in Tomnabat Court. We try to
undertake at least two trips each season,
sometimes revisiting places we have been
before, but usually going somewhere new.
At the meetings we discuss successes and
failures, among other things, and the
meetings usually do not last more that an
hour.
Why not come
along and join
us. You will
enjoy it.
Patricia Grant,
By Mike Fletcher.
This is not what
reasonable
people do. Take it
home or put it in
a bin!
17
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
Hidden Talent
There are many skilled ‘crafters’ in our small community. They enjoy their
crafts, and it is something they share with family and friends, but not
necessarily the wider community. In ‘Hidden Talent’ we look at some of the
talented people who live in and around Tomintoul, who ply their craft for their
own enjoyment and relaxation.
Sheona Thompson
Sheona has been a ‘crafter’ since a
young child. One of her earliest
memories is receiving a blackboard
and chalks for Christmas one year and
just drawing for hours, and another
memory is of making scrap book
pictures. When she was three years
old, her Granny taught her to knit, and
in Primary 6 won a prize for her
knitting. She knitted for her children
when they were young.
could do that!’
Sheona is now well
and truly ‘hooked’
on making all sorts
of jewellery. She
to
learnt
has
identify various
and
gemstones,
creates her own
of
designs
b r a c e l e t s ,
and
necklaces
earrings for both
ladies and men.
The stones come
in all shapes and sizes, and the skill
right
the
putting
in
comes
combinations together, to produce
some beautiful jewellery.
When the children were at school,
Sheona was watching the television
one day, and found a programme on
Card Making. At first, she wasn’t
interested, but on a second look, she
thought- ‘I could do that!’, and got
Sheona also has a display of her
hooked on making cards of all kinds.
in A’anside Crafts, and has
jewellery
By watching a channel called ‘Create
pieces, which funds her
few
a
sold
and Craft’ she learnt a variety of
more materials.
of
purchase
different techniques, and spent many
happy hours producing cards to send
Sheona tends to work on her cards
and jewellery during the day, when
she is on her own, and gets great
enjoyment from both crafts. She also
likes the fact that she is continually
learning new skills and knowledge.
to family and friends.
She also sells some of these cards
in A’anside Crafts, which helps her to
buy more materials to continue this
hobby.
As well as cards, she has made 3D
she
which
ornaments,
hanging
demonstrated to SWRI two years ago.
is
Sheona
craftoholic!
While watching ‘Create and Craft’,
she saw another programme on making
jewellery, and once again thought- ‘I
18
a
self-confessed
[email protected]
The Touler
The Crafty lot
The Crafty Lot meet every Tuesday between 2
and 4 pm from September to May. We have a
break during the Summer, and once again, this
year, before we start our meetings in September,
we will be having an ‘Open Afternoon’ in, where
we welcome anyone who would like to see a
collection of our work, and sit and join us for
refreshments....including some lovely home
bakes! There will be a sales table, where you may
like to buy a special gift, or even start your
Christmas shopping.
This event will take place on August 28th
between 1pm and 4pm. Why not come along and
see what we get up to?
Fish and Chip Babies
One of the many things we do throughout the
year, is knit for various charities.This year, we
heard from Margaret Irvine about ‘Fish and Chips’
babies.
In Africa, many newborn babies suffering from
Aids are sent home from hospital wrapped in
newspaper for warmth. In order to help these tiny
babies,there was a [plea for knitters to make little
jumpers so that these poor mites could be sent
home in something warm. Of course....how could
we refuse.
So....The Crafty Lot, and many residents in
Tomnabat Court set to making as many jumpers
as we could, with the great stash of colourful
Spring 2012
Clippings from the library
One of the highlights of
working in the library is speaking
to people about books that they
enjoy, and as a result my
personal ‘must read’ list is
getting longer and longer. As a
small library we can only fit so
many books on the shelves, and with some of our
borrowers taking up to ten books a week, it will be
no surprise supply can at times fall behind demand.
I would like to assure my regular customers that
implementation of the new stock management
system is underway and will be picking up pace in
the very near future.
In the meantime, don’t forget you can request
books from other libraries to collect at Tomintoul,
with a small charge of 70p per item. You can search
the entire library catalogue online via
www.moray.gov.uk/libaries. If you’re unsure about
using a computer pop in and I’ll give you a hand.
To give you bit of inspiration here’s a list of the top
five books I’ve reserved and enjoyed this year:
1. Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman
2. The Distance Between Us by Maggie
O’Farrell
3. The Help by Kathryn Stockett
4. The Death of Lomond Friel by Sue Peebles
5. A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer
Egan
I
also
recommend
the
websites
www.whichbook.net and www.lovereading.com ,
which can both provide ideas for your next book.
Moray Libraries produce charts for the most issued
books every month, which can give you some good
ideas and keep you up to date with big new
releases, look out for them next time you’re in.
February’s charts were topped by ‘Private Games’
by James Patterson (fiction) and ‘The Favoured
Daughter’ by Fawzia Koofi (nonfiction).
wools that we all have.The picture here shows
what can be achieved in a very short time.
Not sure what the next project might be....but I
am sure there will be one at some stage!
Watch this space!
Jennifer
Don’t forget to come and see us in August!
19
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Mik e ’ s Mus ic Ma e s tr o.
Have a go at our new music quiz.
Use the lyrics provided to try and work out
the name of the song and the name of the artist,
for your fun only. This has been set at a fairly
high degree of difficulty; there are clues to help
if you need them.
1. “She came from Greece, she had a thirst for
knowledge, she studied sculpture at St Mark’s
College. That’s where I caught her eye”
Clue- Ordinary folk from Sheffield.
2. “You shake my nerves girl, you rattle my
brain.....you came along and you move me
honey, [piano], kiss me baby, hold me baby”.
Clue- Old rocker, piano, spherical heat.
3. “Lochaber no more, Sutherland no more,
Lewis no more, Skye no more”.
Clue- Missives from away, guys from Leith.
4. “Close your eyes, give me your hand. Do you
feel my heart beating, do you understand?”
Clue- Olympic torch, by jewellery.
5. “We don’t need anything or anyone. If I lay
here, would you lie with me..........those three
words are said too much,”
Clue- Traffic dash, may be on the Lecht.
6. “Ever seen a blind man cross the road, trying
to make the other side, ever seen a young girl
growing old, trying to make herself a bride. So
what becomes of you my love....”
Clue- Dress in best gear with veteran faces
rocker.
7. “It might seem like a crush that doesn’t mean
I’m serious, but to lose all me senses is so
typically me”,
Clue- A repeated mistake by an area of
Northern France?
8. “It’s so hard to keep this smile from my
face........ please------ trying to make some sense
of it all but I can see it makes no sense at all. “
Clue- Held in the centre? Tyre theft?
9. “I never meant to cause you any problem, I
never meant to cause you any pain.....I only
want to see you laughing in......”
Clue- Coloured precipitation? By royalty.
10. “I get up in the evening and I ain’t got
nothing to say
.........can’t start a fire, can’t
start a fire without a spark”
Clue- Gyrating at night, by the boss.
20
H ARD ER O NES????????????
11. “ I had to escape the city was.......maybe I
should have called you first but I was trying to
get to you...... this fever for you is burning me
up inside.”
Clue- Travelling in the dark? Big O.
12. It don’t have to be beautiful to turn me
on......
Don’t need experience...don’t have to be rich
to be my girl.”
Clue- Lip to Lip. To be a king?
13.“There were nights when the wind was so
cold, there
were days when the sun was
so cruel......If I touch you like
this, i’d just
have to admit.”
Clue- It will all be returned? Only hope is
left?[original recording]
14.“I can feel a new expression on my face, I
could feel a glowing sensation taking
place.......meanwhile I try to act so nonchalant,
I feel a Summer’s night with a magic moon.”
Clue- Open the door and walk in? Always
looking?
15. “I’m sitting on a railway station got a ticket
for my destination...... on a tour of one night
stands, my suitcase and guitar in hand.”
Clue- Heading back? Pair of college boys.
16. “The cross on the wall is a permanent
fixture...... home is a love that I miss very much,
so the past has been bottled ........”
Clue- Sign of esteem? Cuddle of affection?
Scores [1 point for the song title, one for the
artist].
No points scored for any question where
technology helps you to reach an answer.
27-32. you are a music aficionado.
22-26 on your way to maestro
level.
16-21 Ok, but patchy knowledge
10-15 you need to listen more.
Below 10 you have to start somewhere.
Answers on page31.
[email protected]
The Touler
Th e Tou ler Qu ick Qu iz.
1. Lending her name to a famous sports brand,
who was the Greek Goddess of victory?
2. In slang how much is a monkey?
3. What letter is given to a car number plate
when the age or identity of the vehicle is
unknown or it may have been built from parts?
4. What is the official national anthem of the
U.S.A?
5. In the U.S.A what is celebrated on February
2nd and is also a film?
Find the answers on page 30.
Mys tery
y.
t ery C eleb rit
rity.
Clues:Born 1924 in Manchester
Married three times
Died 1986
Borntoapoorworkingclassfamily,playedalarger thanlifecharacter
1960 became a soap star for Granada
Remained in one soap for 23 years
Called, “the working man’s Raquel Welch.”
Jim Callaghan, Prime Minister, said that she was “the sexiest woman
on TV.”
She said, “I don’t know what the word a star means. I only know that
I am working class.”
Married Tony Booth when gravely ill, a short time before she died.
Find the answer on page 30
Spring 2012
Useful Text Abbreviations
This might help those of us who are not so young
and sometimes do not quite understand what is
written in a text message. Some are fairly obvious
but others are a bit more obscure and known only
to the young!!
2B
To be
2Day
Today
2L8
Too Late
2Moro
Tomorrow
2nite
Tonight
2U
To you
4
For or four
AAM
As a matter of fact
AFAIC
As far as I am concerned
AFAIK
As far as I know
AKA
Also knows as
ASAP
As soon as possible
ATB
All the best
ATM
At the moment
BCNU
Be seeing you
BHL8
Be home late
BWD
Backward
B4
Before
BRB
Be right back
BTW
By the way
BYKT
But you knew that
Next installment in the Summer edition of The Touler.
21
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Carved Fish Models
its future it now resides behind glass on the wall of
The Ghillies Bar. Sadly, it lacks supporting
information. The hotel kindly permitted me to
photograph this sole survivor.
Atlantic Salmon displayed in The Gordon
Arms
It was my intention to email The Touler last year
after visiting the North East of Scotland, though
unfortunately other obligations claimed my
attention, and the matter was put 'on hold'.
At the time of my visit in late September I enjoyed
a leisurely excursion (by rail, bus & on foot) via
Aberdeen and Fochabers, reaching Tomintoul for the
final week of my stay. I have visited Tomintoul
several times before, en-route to Scalan, however on
this occasion I wanted to explore the locality in more
detail, which resulted in my visiting the recently
refurbished museum. I was really impressed by what
I saw, and am sure the local community take pride in
such a valuable facility.
One thing that caught my attention was a display
which included two fish models carved in half
section and painted with oils, both dated 1913. My
excursion had a two-fold purpose, namely - to enjoy
the landscape, but perhaps more importantly - to
view paintings and carved fish models executed by
John Bucknell Russell 1820-1893. My stop-over in
Fochabers was especially rewarding in this respect,
due largely to Mr Gordon Baxter and the Fochabers
Heritage Centre. I was enabled to view paintings by
both John Russell and his children - James Russell
1867-1956, and Isabella (Dhuie) Russell Tully 18621950. These included paintings of fish caught in the
river Spey and other Scottish rivers of note, river
scenes, wildlife and floral arrangements. The only
shortcoming was a virtual absence of carved fish
models. I got the impression that these had been
quite commonplace, but overtime their condition
was allowed to deteriorate, and eventually any
remaining examples found their way on to the fire.
Fortunately one fine model remains in the
possession of the Gordon Arms Hotel, and to secure
22
Clearly, the carved fish models in the museum at
Tomintoul are not the work of John Russell. I also
suspect that the Gordon Arms model was executed
by the same hand. In fact the evidence would
suggest that these were probably created by John
and Dhuie Russell Tully who continued to use the
Fochabers studio at 16 West Street for nigh-on forty
years after John Russell's death.
Ron Bailey's Carvings: History of Trophy Fish
Carving, is the most informative source of material
covering many aspects of the Russell family's
involvement in both the creation of carved fish
models and other
artistic works.
This
information
is
available
www.ronbaileyscarvings.com/history.htm
on:
I sincerely hope that my efforts to draw attention to
this issue may serve some purpose, by prompting
an interest in locating and recording carved fish
models of this period in our history. Perhaps their
owners might receive encouragement to ensure that
these unusual 'trophies' continue to play a part in
Moray's heritage.
With kind regards,
Christopher Sharples
The Green Man
High Green
Great Melton
Norwich
NR9 3BQ
Tel: 01603 812803
[email protected]
The Touler
Spring 2012
RIVER AVON FISHING
ASSOCIATION.
Councillor’s report
The Fishing Association held its AGM on 20th
March and the existing committee, with John
Tansley as Chairman, was re-elected for another
year.
March was an unusually successful month in terms of
getting additional funding from Moray Council for
Tomintoul projects.The last meeting of the policy and
resources committee agreed to spend £45,000 to help
part-fund the employment of a development worker
to take forward the Tomintoul and Glenlivet
Regeration project. The council had been asked to
match-fund contributions of £15,000 each from the
Cairngorms National Park Authority and Highlands &
Islands Enterprise, with a commitment to carry this
cost for three years. The Crown Estate is contributing
in kind by offering office space for the regeneration
project.Although less in amount, the £1,400 from the
economic development budget for Tomintoul primary
school to host their small school Olympics is sure to
be money well spent in promoting the village during
its moment of f(l)ame! Keith councillor Gary Coull
and I had the honour of selecting the winning Olympic
logo from among the many delightful entries from
participating primary schools. I wish this enterprising
event well and hope to be able to fight my way
through the crowds to see some of the action.It has
been an honour and a pleasure to be one of your
councillors for the last five years. Please use your vote
for the local council elections on May 3 (the choice is
yours!). In the meantime, you can contact me on any
issue at [email protected]
or by phone to 01340 821219.
A number of anglers come here to fish for 3 or 4
separate weeks in a season, and with the present
cost of fuel, we should be thankful they still come!
However, in 2011 45 fishing days were lost due to
decreased bookings which everyone said was
largely due to the high price of fuel. Added to this,
the rent and Spey Board dues rose by about £4500,
which seriously undermined our financial status.
Therefore, sadly, we are unable to donate any
money to the communities this year.
In the years since we have taken the lease the river
environment has been greatly improved. All the
fishing huts have been renewed, the river cleared of
fallen and overhanging trees and the banks cleaned
of weeds and kept passable. Several sections are
now available that were obstructed previously, and
the fishers are delighted.
The number of fish landed was 454 and the
number released 281- eighteen years ago most of
the fish were kept! They are put back to help
increase the stock which had become seriously
depleted in many rivers.
The start of the season is only a matter of a few
weeks away, and it will be
interesting to see if we get any fish
into the river earlier than usual,
owing to the mild winter we have
experienced.
The
water
temperature should be above the
level which we would expect at this
time of year.
Cheers!Fiona
locals are encouraged to come
23
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Tales from the Outback
G’day!
it is hard to believe that it is almost four months since we left Scotland on a cold, snowy winter’s day.
Memories of dropping the dogs off at the cargo depot in Aberdeen have long since faded. little did they
know they were to be subjected to 30 days enforced captivity (quarantine) while we went off travelling!
i’ll not bore you with the details, but Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Melbourne, the Yarra Valley and the
great ocean road all featured on our itinerary. Then it was back to perth to be reunited with the terrible
two and to find it somewhat disconcerting that they hadn’t even missed us, greeting us as if we’d just
come back from a trip to the shops. And they were far more acclimatised to the heat than we were!
i started working for the royal Flying Doctor Service (rFDS)
in mid-January. My first 3 weeks were spent in perth being
orientated, learning much about aviation, aero-medical
transport and the Australian health service in general. Much
of the latter is still somewhat of an enigma to me - although
largely based on a uK model. There are still many areas
where the only healthcare is provided by a local first aider, or
nurse at best, supported remotely by the rFDS. And, although
we all supposedly speak the same language, i do sometimes
wonder!
our move to port hedland in February went without hitch, the icing on the cake was finding that our
allocated house came complete with swimming pool, a perfect antidote to the tropical climate of the
pilbara region.
My job comprises two main components. About two thirds of my time is spent as doctor for the retrieval
aeroplanes. These are pilatus pC12s kitted out with 2 stretchers and equipment capable of transporting
critically ill or injured patients at intensive care level. in the confined space of a fairly small aircraft, with
the unavoidable noise and movement, even the simplest of medical tasks, such as using a stethoscope
or inserting an iV line, become a challenge. Although there are small regional hospitals throughout
Western Australia, the majority of hospital care is provided in perth, which can be more than a 4 hour
flight away - this is a long time for even the most stable of patients to develop complications. To put it
into context, imagine breaking your leg in Tomintoul and being told the nearest hospital for treatment is
in Moscow!
The rest of my time is spent travelling by air to remote communities
providing a gp service. Although less intense and the less ‘sexy’ part
of the job, it is in many ways more rewarding, providing a face to face
service to those with no other access to medical care. The unique
medical problems amongst the Aboriginal population cannot be
understated, and it is a steep learning curve for me.
The only other thing to report is that i have survived my first cyclone a Category 4 (out of 5) After all the anticipation and preparation (the
town was on ‘red alert’ and we weren’t allowed outside for 16 hours)
it turned out to be nothing much. it crossed the coast about 150km
east of here. i can honestly say i have seen more wind and rain in the
highlands of Scotland, and going on for longer! Australia - the nation
of hyperbole!
Dr Tanya Ronaldson
24
[email protected]
The Touler
Spring 2012
Some Reminiscences of John Ferguson
When I first came to Ruthven in 1969, I was told that the
the Ruthven reseeding was called Clach na Ciotag
and h
cast iron name plate sitting loosely on it this was sadl
someone in the 1970 s. On inquiring what the meaning of
was, I was told that Clach na Ciotag meant Stone of th
was where the coffin rested on the journey to the Church
Kirkmichael on the old road from Tomintoul.
Being brought up in Tomatin and acquainted with Highland
this made sense to me as the custom of carrying the coffin to the church yard w
never touch earth from the time it leaves the house until it gets to the grave.
be a big rock or mound of stones on the road to a
churchyard. The nearest stone mound to Tomintoul that
I know of is on the hill road from Glen Lochy to Nethy
Bridge above Dirdhu Bridge. This was pointed out to me
by Alistair MacCook from Nethy Bridge whose
grandmother came from Glen Lochy. It is therefore
possible that both versions of the stone have the same
purpose. The stone was a resting place for the coffin in
its journey to the churchyard, but before it could be
rested a plaid would be spread on the rock to protect it
from the earth thus the plaid stone.
For as long as I can remember there has been a Clootie
Well at Culloden. The first Sunday in May was when celebration of this well too
teenager I, along with many of my pals, would go to join in the festivities, al
reason for going was the number of single girls attending as there were buses t
Inverness and the surrounding areas. Everyone who attended was out to celebrat
summer and, at the risk if being considered very un›PC and a male chauvinist, t
talent available,
However, the tradition of a Clootie Well would not be compatible with today s H
Village Litter Tidy, 7th April 2012.
This was the second annual litter clearance organised by Pam Fletcher. A grant of .£250 was received from
the Cairngorms National Park Authority, this enabled the purchase of litter pickers and high visibility vests.
There is now equipment available for future litter clearances.
A fair amount of litter was collected from all areas of the village.
Information should have reached most people in the village as posters
were displayed and many were emailed to inform them of the event.
Many thanks to Hamish McIntosh, Jenny Herschell, Jean and Tony
Birhall, Sandra and Peter Sawyer, Pam and Mike Fletcher for their
work in collecting the litter. The event will be repeated again in 2013.
If you do come across any areas that show a fair bit of litter or mess,
please let Pam or Mike know and they will arrange for it to be
cleared at any time of the year.
25
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Pictures from the Past
"Riders heading off to Braemar Gathering in September 1983. On the far left is Brian
Herschell, Rosie Still is third left, Sheila Thomson third from the right and Stephen
Herschell second from the right. This picture originally appeared in the Northern Scot
at the time."
TOMINTOUL
MEDICAL CENTRE
01340 820888
Consulting Hours
Mon:
9.00–10-30am
4.30–6pm & 6.00-6-15
Tues:
9.00–10.30am
2–4pm
Wed:
9.00–10.30am
2–4pm
Thur:
9.00–10.30am
Surgery closed pm
Fri:
9.00–10.30am .
5-6pm (Clinic Appt Only)
In addition to consulting hours, Reception is open
between 8am and noon Mon - Fri for the ordering of
repeat prescriptions, booking appointments, etc.
Please allow 2 working days when ordering repeat
prescriptions as not all medications are kept in stock
at all times.
There is a GP on call 8am to 6pm Monday to
Friday.
26
Old Age gAmblers FAce
cOurt
NICOSIA:
Dozens of elderly Cypriot women have
found themselves on the wrong side of
the law after gambling at home - a
practice banned on the Mediterranean
island.
More than 40 women, all aged over 60
and one aged 98, were booked after
police found them playing a card game
locally known as "poker-ise" in 2009.
Two ladies have since died, but 42
others are expected to appear in court
this month.
Taken from the Glasgow Herald
[email protected]
Picture from the Past
Dear Editors,
With reference to your query about
the pictures from the past.
I receive The Touler from my
mother Ellen Thomson. She now
lives in Craigellachie, previously
having lived both in Tonintoul and
A’nside. She, in turn receives from
my brothers wife Shiela Thomson
of Ivy Cottage, A’nside. You can
tell we are a thrifty family with
lots of hand me downs and
recycling. I am one of a family of
six, and my mother and I both
think my brother William is in the
photograph. Sadly, we lost him in
1977. He was one of the first to
lose his life as a teenage road
fatality, and the village has since
lost many more sadly. We think the
picture may have been taken at
Grantown Primary School.
Tomintoul had no school tie that I
know of until introduced by Mr
Eric Farqhar, who allowed the
pupils to vote on which tie, from a
number of tartan choices, in the
1970`s. We chose Royal Stewart,
the Grantown tie was gold and
navy , possibly black diagonal
stripe,which you see in the Photo.
We as a family had previosly
attended Grantown Grammar as
my dad worked at Tormore, before
we moved to his last position
before retirement, at Tomintoul
Distillery.
I think the photo may have been
taken around 1967/68, as we
moved to Tomintoul in 1971. I
hope this is of some help ,and you
find the senders identity.
The Touler
Spring 2012
BE ACTIVE lIFE lONG
With the BAll Group
The Tomintoul and District BALL Group meets fortnightly, on alternate
Wednesdays at the Richmond Memorial Hall from 10am to 12noon. Our
aim is to BE ACTIVE LIFELONG, have some fun while we are about
it, to enjoy the company of friends and to contribute what we can to the
meetings.
So far this year we have enjoyed a visit from Liz Trevethick of The
Falconer Museum in Forres, who brought along a selection of strange
objects for us to identify and talk about. Another morning was danced
away with dancing teacher Caroline Coomber. Claire Griffiths of the
WRVS told us about the Moray Heritage Memory Blog and several of
us contributed to the memory collection and our tales will be ‘on-line’
at (www.wrvsmorayheritagememories.wordpress.com)
On 28th March Jacqui Horning of A’anside Studios taught us how to
make glass ‘Easter eggs’ which she will fire in her kiln; we are looking
forward to seeing our efforts with lots of pieces of coloured glass turned
into works of art at our next meeting.
The fun activities have included curling (ice-free of course, but great
fun), skittles, various ball games, ‘chairobics,’ and even skipping for the
really energetic among us! For good measure the occasional ‘sing-along’
with Bob Coutts is always full of good humour. These mornings are
always entertaining, and no-one could ever call us dull!
At the time of writing this, a further programme is being planned,
beginning with an activities morning on 11th April. Each member pays
only £3 per session which covers the cost of hall hire and heating as well
as a mid-morning cup of tea or coffee. Come and join us! We are having
a BALL!
Yours faithfully
Ellen Stewart (royal)
27
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
Recipe Corner
Pork with Noodles
Method
ingredients
14oz (350g) pork (This can be stir-fry or
fillet cut into thin strips not cubed)
2oz (50g) Cooked ham lean and diced
2 garlic Cloves crushed
1 Carrot cut into thin strips
6 Spring onions finely chopped
8oz (227g) can Water Chestnuts drained
and halved
1tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
1tbsp light Soy Sauce
2oz (50g) Mangetout trimmed and halved
4oz Dried egg noodles
2 tsps Sunflower oil
1tsp Sesame oil
1tsp sugar
Mix together dark soy sauce and garlic in
a bowl and pork and stir to cover meat
leave in fridge for 10 minutes.
Cook the noodles according to
instructions and drain
heat sunflower oil in a wok or large frying
pan and stir-fry the pork until browned
Add ham carrots spring onions water
Chestnuts and mangetout. Stir-fry for 2-3
minutes then add noodles and remaining
ingredients.
Stir well and cook until heated through.
Serve immediately.
Thawed frozen peas can be used instead
of mangetout.
Steak or chicken can be used instead of
pork increase weight of meat. prawns
can also be substituted but don’t work so
well with this recipe.
T h e S i l e n t Tr e a t m e n t
A man and his wife were having
some problems at home and were
giving each other the silent treatment.
Suddenly, the man realized that the
next day he would need his wife to
wake him at 5:00 am for an early
morning business flight.Not wanting
to be the first to break the silence
(and LOSE), he wrote on a piece of
paper, Please wake me at 5:00 am. He
left it where he knew she would find
it.The next morning the man woke up,
only to discover it was 9:00 am and
he had missed his flight. Furious, he
was about to go and see why his wife
hadn't wakened him, when he noticed
a piece of paper by the bed. The
paper sai, 'It is 5:00 am. Wake up.Men
are not equipped for this kind of
contest.
28
[email protected]
The Touler
Chocolate Nut
Truffles
ingredients
3oz (85g) Crystallized ginger finely
chopped
1oz Sultanas chopped
1½ oz Dried Cranberries
2oz Macadamia nuts finely chopped
4oz plain cooking chocolate good
quality
½ oz butter preferably unsalted.
1 egg yoke
1tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp dark rum
1tbsp (30ml) double cream
Method
Mix the ginger, sultanas, cranberries
and rum in a small bowl and allow to
soak for at least 2 hrs. (preferably
overnight.)
place the nuts in a heavy-based frying
pan and lightly toast, tossing
occasionally until golden.
remove from heat and allow to cool.
When cool enough toss in cocoa
powder and set aside.
Melt chocolate in a bowl and then stir
in butter until completely melted. Allow
to cool slightly.
Beat the egg yoke and the cream and
add slowly to chocolate mixture.
Fold in the soaked fruit then beat with a
wooden spoon until well combined.
Cover the bowl with clingfilm and chill
for at least 2 hrs. to firm mixture.
using a melon baller or teaspoon
scoop out small amounts of mixture.
Form into balls and roll in the toasted
nuts. place in small paper cases and
store in fridge in an airtight container.
Spring 2012
Who's the ‘Chick’ in
the Floppy Hat?
it's the winner of the Darby &
Joan Club's easter Bonnet Competition, that's
who: And, it was helen Sheed. Coming in at a
close 2nd was Margaret Abdy, followed by ros
Tansley who scooped the 3rd prize!
The competition was held on April 4th, and even
though it wasn't March, there was still madness
in the hare (oops sorry, air)! our members
made a great effort decorating their glorious
creations and proudly paraded around to an old
Fred Astaire song….those of you old enough will
know which one i mean. All the others can ask
your 'elders'.
our judges for the day were Margaret
henderson and her sister Vi Burry. They did a
great job and gave us all a good laugh when we
realised they couldn't agree on who should get
what. But, the decision was finally made and
we'd like to thank them both for being good
sports.
Some of the hats on show had miniature
chocolate eggs on them so the madness
continued when we served tea and
coffee……'cause some of the members were
quite literally able to eat their hat!
Come and join us one of these days. We usually
meet every second Wednesday from 2pm until
4pm in the Day Centre at Tomnabat Court.
We'll be hosting a prize Whist Drive on Friday
20th April, at 7:00pm. posters for this will be
displayed around the village. There is also
going to be a "Mystery Tour" day trip on
Wednesday 30th May. Tickets will be available
soon…… so, watch this space.
Take out approximately ½ hr prior to
serving.
i like to dip the nut covered balls in
chocolate. Your own Ferrero rocher.
You can use other nuts if desired and
other alcohol depending on taste.
29
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
THE SPEYSIDE WAY – BAllINDAllOCH
BRIDGE ClOSURE
In order to make the bridge safe it has been necessary to close it to the public to
allow essential works tobe carried out by Contractors.
As a result it is expected that the bridge will not re-open until 1st June 2012. Updates on timescales
will be available on the Speyside Way website www.speysideway.org.
We appreciate this is a major inconvenience to Speyside Way users and apologise for any problems
thismay cause. In the meantime you may wish to consider the following options:
1. Devising your own alternative route. There is no official diversion provided for this route. It is
however possible to follow the B9102 and a minor public road between Blacksboat ( OS grid ref.
NJ 182388 ) and the Cromdale Road bridge across the River Spey ( OS grid ref. NJ065289 ).
Please be aware though that this road is a single track with limited visibility and passing places.
If you choose to proceed along this route please note that you do so at your own risk and caution
should be exercised.
2. Free taxi. This is provided by the Moray Council as a pick up/drop off service at either end of
thebridge only ie Blacksboat old station car park ( OS grid ref. NJ182388 ) and the B9137 road at
Ballindalloch/Cragganmore ( OS grid ref. NJ167365 ).
This service is available between 9.00am and 8.00pm daily for the duration of the bridge closure.
Telephone or email to make prior arrangements with one of the following taxi firms quoting the
reference ‘Ballindalloch bridge closure’ :
Tawse Taxis tel 07725 995 277 E mail [email protected]
C U There Taxis tel 01340 871 217 E mail [email protected]
3. Public transport. This is limited but is available as follows:
a. Speyside Dial a Bus. Prior booking up to 1 day before is essential. Tel 01343 562 533 to book.
Lines open 9.00am to 1.00pm Monday to Friday.
b. 338 (Maynes Coaches) and 33 (Speyside Community Bus) bus services. This is a ‘hail and
ride’ service along the A95 road operating daily except weekends. Times at the nearest points
along the A95 are as follows:
Marypark going towards Tormore: 07:50 09:10 13:50 16:10
Tormore going towards Marypark: 08:15 0:954 14:27 16:30
Ian Douglas
Moray Access Manager
[email protected]
Answers to Quick Quiz
, 1. Nike 2. £500 3. Q 4. The Star
Spangled Banner 5. Groundhog Day.
Answer to Mystery Celebrity
Coronation
Street
Phoenix/Elsie Tanner.
30
Star,
Pat
[email protected]
The Touler
Room 101
The whole point of Room 101 is to remove
things that irritate you.
My first annoyance that I want to
remove permanently to Room 101 ,is the
misuse of apostrophes.
The correct way to use them is:
A dog’s food
Two dogs’ food
Dogs … this is plural and so no
apostrophe.
Isn’t, don’t, it’s … These all have a missing
letter.
It’s very easy.
My second rant is the person who drives
at speed down the Main Street at
6.30am. This person should remember
that there is still a 30mph limit, even if
it’s dark or there’s no-one about. There
could be one time when there is someone,
or an animal, on the road. Let’s hope you
can stop in time.
Mind you, there are a lot of locals who
ignore the 30mph limit all the time. Our
roads seem to be used like a racing track.
Let’s banish them all to Room 101.
Spring 2012
ANSWERS to Music
Maestro.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Common People by Pulp.
Great Balls of Fire by Gerry Lee Lewis.
Letters from America by the Proclaimers.
Eternal Flame by the Bangles.
Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol.
Handbags and Glad rags by Rod Stewart.
7. Oops! I did It Again by Brittany Spears.
8. Stuck in the Middle With You by Stealer’s
Wheel.
9. Purple Rain by Prince.
10. Dancing In The Dark by Bruce Springsteen.
11. I Rode All Night by Roy Orbison [I think also
Celine Dion and Cindy Lauper].
12. Kiss by Prince.
13. It’s All Coming Back To Me by Pandora’s Box
[ also by Meatloaf].
14. Every Time That You Walk In The
Room by The Searchers.[covered by many
others e.g. Status Quo, Paul Carrack].
15. Homeward Bound by Simon and
Garfunkel.
16. Labelled With love by Squeeze
Moan number three is the people who
feel they can say how thin someone is.
Imagine if the thin person said how fat
the others had got!!! Some of us can be
sensitive about our weight, fat or thin.
Go to Room 101.
R ich m o n d Mem orial Hall 20 0
C lu b Monthly Draw
February 2012
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
130
147
53
54
March 2012
1st
36
2nd
14
3rd
84
4th
203
Callum Sheed
Charlie Irvine
Frances Cruickshank
Kerry Ann Sim
£30
£15
£15
£15
Eddie Card
Ebeth Coutts
Linda Sim
Marjorie Kane
£30
£15
£15
£15
The Hall committee wish to thank all members for
their continued support. Funds raised go towards
the upkeep of your hall.
Thank you.
31
Spring 2012
[email protected]
The Touler
Speyside Area Forum
At the meeting in February, following topics were
discussed.
Olympic Torch: Patricia Grant led a discussion about
the suggested arrangements for when the Olympic
Torch goes through Tomintoul. Cllr Paul, Patricia
Grant and Cllr Fiona Murdoch discussed funding for
the special choir created for this event. Cllr Murdoch
advised members that as the organisers were
appointing a leader today, they will be contacting
existing choirs in the near future. It was thought that
the school choirs will be good choices. There followed
further discussion about this event and the fact that it
is not simply a local, but is a national event.
Speyside Community Website Group: Cllr Murdoch
and Chairman, Sandy Henderson met with the group
with a view to offering assistance to improve and
expand the extent of the current website to make it
more marketable. Cllr Murdoch was very concerned
that Archiestown, Tomintoul and Glenlivet are not
even on the website at all. Also, the current website
does not provide visitors to the area with easy access
to information on holiday accommodation (B&BS,
Guest Houses and Hotels) and where to eat (cafes and
restaurants), Visitor Attractions and events. The
recommendation is that as the Forum has funds
available, and that as it will benefit everybody in
Speyside it should pay someone to redesign the
website.
Cllr Pearl Paul said businesses would not pay to go on
a poor website. Jean Oliver mentioned the name of a
web designer. It was decided to ask a web designer to
look at the site nd report back.
Grass Cutting Charges: The Economic Development
and Infrastructure Services Committee have
unanimously agreed not to charge.
Craigellachie Bridge (built by Thomas Telford 181214) and Nature Walk Project.
After discussion, it appeared that no one has the time
to take this on at present. Rita Marks said their
Community Association approved of the project but
have too much on at the moment. Cllr Murdoch said
the bridge needs major renovation, as flakes of paint
are falling off with the possibility of polluting the
river. The focus for this project is the year 2014, which
is the bridge’s 200th anniversary. So far they had
approached at least one distillery and had received a
positive response.
A project of this size needs time in order to get the
money together. Cllr Paul believed that this was
something that the Forum should take on, initially by
seeking advice and publicising it as someone might
come forward with advice, assistance and funding. Jim
Gray said that a high powered engineer would need to
be onboard.
Public Entertainments licences: A discussion on
this subject took place including contributions from
Patricia Grant, Cllr Murdoch and Andrea Fuller. It is
such a complicated and controversial issue that the
Moray Council are creating a ‘Decision Tree’.
Patricia Grant thought this change in licensing
arrangements had come into being because of
government legislation policy. She was hopeful that
something might come out of this and if trying to get
one overall licence works for one organisation, maybe
it could work for others.
32
Renewable Energy: Steve Oliver advised members
present that Estover Ltd will have exhibitions of their
planned bio-mass CHP plant for Craigellachie Wood
to supply heat for Macallan Distillery and electricity
for the grid on 16th May at Archiestown Hall and 17th
May at Craigellachie Hall.
Update from Community Groups:
All communities reported on the various activities
taking place over the next few months, with special
reference to The Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.
Car Share Schemes: Rita Marks was pleased that the
regulations for Car Share schemes had been eased as
this would encourage more people to use the scheme.
Councillors have been told that they will be getting
some funding for this through the Change Fund. The
Forum discussed the possibility of giving money to
the Speyside Car Share Scheme
Speyside Path Network: Jean Oliver made a plea for
Speyside paths. She spoke about The Rural Skills
Department. If the Wind Farm is created it should help
Knockando and they will hopefully be putting in a
path from the top to the Mill. Progress was slow as
planning paths takes years to come to fruition.
Treasurer’s Report: Hugh Fraser reported that the
total spend has been £1200. This meant that there
were funds available at present. Cllr Murdoch
encouraged Forum members to think about what
projects we could best spend this on to invest in
Speyside. Patricia Grant agreed the report and Rita
seconded it.
Community Issues: Cold Weather Payments and
Weather Temperature Measurement: Concern was
expressed about the measurement of the outside
temperature [in relation to Cold Weather Payments]
which was taken at Kinloss RAF Base; a more
temperate area than Speyside. The result of this is a
potential loss of Cold Weather Payments. This is an
anomaly which should be addressed.
Ski-ing Areas – Poor Season: Patricia Grant said
businesses in the ski-ing area have had a dire season
and those in the Lecht are really struggling to survive.
The Cairngorms area is also experiencing financial
difficulties but less so as it receives Government
funding as it is a National Park.
Date and venue of next meeting: 7.30pm, Tuesday
22nd May, Kirkmichael and Tomintoul Community
Hall
Eileen Fitzpatrick
Secretary
[email protected]
SNIPPETS
It is illegal for men on Jersey
to knit.
[email protected]
The Touler
Spring 2012
Spring.
Of all the seasons in the year
and changes that they bring,
the one that gives us most
delight
must be the start of Spring.
With Winter gone
and dark days past
we hope for sunny skies,
the flowers and trees come
back to life
and help our spirits rise.
So let’s give thanks to
Springtime
and all it has to show,
and whatever we have
planted
let’s hope that it may grow.
Walking Festival, 6th to 10th September 2012.
This will be the fourth festival and bookings are well in advance
of previous years. The Ben A’an walk is again very popular with
only three places left at the time of writing this article. Our
guides are out regularly checking out the routes. We have had
posters printed and you should come across these around the
area. We are expecting our festival to fit in well with the
regeneration of Tomintoul and Glenlivet, in particular as a part
of offering low level walks around the area. Everyone is very
welcome to participate in the festival, as walkers or as helpers.
Contact: - Mike...... [email protected] 01807 580262. Website:www.tgwf.co.uk
A Brown.
[photo Ben A’an, summit area]
33
Spring 2012
The Touler
[email protected]
Tomintoul and Glenlivet Outdoor Bowling Club
Following our exhaustive cleaning of the green in November, the green is looking in
excellent condition, and the surrounding ditches are now covered in pea shingle as
well. Work is due to start on the car park and we are exploring the possibilities of major
changes to the club house in the near future.
Membership is still slowly increasing. but we will welcome new members at any time
since the club is still quite small.
The 100 club has been a great success and this will help towards the club house improvements.
With all this positive news, all that remains to be said is,”I hope that the season is as good as the
last, and anyone else interested, please contact me, Mike Budd on 580459 for details.” The 2012
season has now started with the traditional Cack ‘Anded Cup being played on the 6th April.
The season is starting earlier this year because of an early Easter, but the weather has helped a great
deal as well.
Tomintoul Indoor
Bowling Club.
We will be holding our annual Pairs Competition
over the weekends of May 5th and 12th.
Anyone wishing to enter the competition must
have their names in by April 29th at the latest.
Contact telephone numbers:
Eric … 01807580291
Margaret … 01807580450.
Thanking you all for your support,
Eric Brown.
Snippets
Sugar the cat
survived a 50m
fall from a window
by spreading itself
to maximise wind
resistance.
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34
[email protected]
how to contact
The Touler
‘The Touler’
by eMAil: [email protected]
Spring 2012
USEFUL NUMbErS
or by poST: The Touler, c/o Corrievaich,
Cults drive, Tomintoul AB37 9HA
or in person to any of the editorial team, who are:
Maggie Boyd, Pam Fletcher, Mike Fletcher,
Patricia Grant, Jenny Herschell,
Sally Reid, Jane Riley,
Sheila Thomson, and Nigel Varey.
THE TOUlER SPRING EDITION
will be published in July 2012.
DEADlINE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS
is 1st June 2012.
Please submit contributions via email to:
[email protected]
or by hand to one of the editorial committee.
Views and comments expressed in letters and articles
are not necessarily the views of The Touler Editorial
Team who reserve the right to refuse publication and
also to edit letters and articles recieved
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Comment or Complaint?
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please come along to our ‘IdEAS’
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Childline: 0800 1111
Grampian Police:
Tomintoul police Station: 01807 580222
Service Centre: 0845 600 5 700
(non-emergency calls)
Hospitals
Dr gray’s, elgin:08454566000
raigmore, inverness: 01463 704000
Aberdeen royal infirmary: 08454 566000
Medical Centres
Tomintoul: 01340 820888
glenlivet: 01807 590273
Moray Council: 08457 565656
(emergency out of hours contact)
Moray Women’s Aid: 01343 548549
NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
Road Gritting Info:
Tomintoul Depot: 01807 580231
A939 lecht: 01975 651440
(Corgarff-Tomintoul)
The Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90
Tomintoul Primary School:
01807 580271 - head Teacher: Mrs n Fraser
Scottish Hydro-Electric: 0800 300 999
Scottish Water:
0845 600 601 (customer services)
0845 600 8855 (emergency information)
EMErGENCiES 999
35