THE ROTHESIAN

Sept 2009 Sponsored by Johnnie Hodge Issue No 47

It gives me great pleasure to sponsor the ‘Rothesian’, a magazine I have admired since its first printing. It is a real quality production, and keeps us up to date with what is going on at home.

Growing up in Rothes Money was scarce, unemployment extremely high and school leavers found it impossible to find employ- ment. Many choose to join the boy’s service in the I was born on the 22nd February, 1925 at 11 New Royal Air Force, some of whom did not survive the Street when all births were at home. A midwife was Second World War. in attendance and all fathers were definitely absent. I also have vivid memories of unemployed men pass- Changed days indeed. I was the middle of three with ing down North Street daily on their way to the woods my older sister Mima and younger brother Jim. My and returning with heavy loads of wood on their shoul- memories of my childhood in Rothes are all pleasant der to keep the fires burning. The rule was – No horse ones. drawn vehicles – Just take what you can carry. It was

back breaking work. This went on to the late 30s just We had a good school with good teachers who in our before the start of the Second World War. time up to the qualifying class never changed. The

rule then was that if a female teacher married she had School holidays were spent at home, away holidays to resign her post so they were all spinsters. Miss being out of the question. The best we could expect Troup, Miss Peterkin, Miss Hogan, Miss Macdonald, was the Sunday School trip by train to Lossiemouth. Miss Dunn, Miss Grant and the one and only Miss With a bonus outing to Hopeman if you had attended Annie Robb. She really was someone to be feared and the English Church Sunday School as well. Many had capable of reducing the bravest to tears. However, she - with just that perk in mind. could teach and if you failed the Qualifying Exam it However, we were never bored in Rothes. There was certainly was not her fault. Another teacher in the no such thing as TV, or many wireless sets but there Higher Grade who taught for a long time in Rothes was always somewhere to go or something to do. I was Miss Gow the English teacher who was well re- notice from the many activities in the Rothesian Diary spected. She always took a photo of the last class be- that is still the same today. fore leaving and our one appears in this issue. Sadly

she died a short time after so this is her last photo- The Spey was always an attraction to us during the graph. summer holidays especially the Boat Hole at the top

end of the town. It was a safe place for swimming and As children we lived through one of the longest and it was there that the older boys taught us younger ones to swim. There was a fresh water oyster bed where you could spend hours opening shells in the hope of finding a Spey pearl. If lucky you could get a six- pence for it from Watchy Davidson who displayed them in his shop window. I never knew if they were for sale or display but there never was a price on them. It is now illegal to disturb a fresh water oyster bed. On the days when the Spey was low you could wade across and spend some time on the Sandy Hill which sadly is no longer there, or climb Ben Aigen, which was a good day out. Sourden was also a good spot on the rock, but you had to be a good swimmer if you dived in there. Another activity which kept us fit and occupied was guddling for trout in the burns, all of which had different names to the ones we hear today. We knew them as the Toons burn or the Dounie burn, most severe recessions the country has experienced. the Glengrant Burn and the Greens burn. There was a

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] ditch at the Blackburn which entered the Spey at the LORNA’S BIG CYCLE CHALLENGE Boat Hole which we would never have called a burn. The Glen Grant and Greens burn entered the Toons Lorna MacInnes will be taking part in an exciting burn before it entered the Spey. challenge in March next year. She will be cycling In 1940 I left school and joined the railway at Rothes 350km to raise money for 4 different cancer charities. as a trainee clerk to be told by the station master, Mr The Big C Cycle Challenge will be raising money for James Ogg ‘Keep your nose clean and you have a job Children With Leukaemia, The Lymphoma Associa- for life. Forty three years later his words became true tion, Marie Curie Cancer Care, and Ovarian Cancer when I retired. It was a nomadic style of life finishing Action. over the border but I enjoyed it. Like so many people, Lorna’s family has been affected by cancer. Her Dad was diagnosed with a Lymphoma At 18 I was called up to the Navy and served on con- cancer 2 years ago, and her grandmother has been for- voy escorts and minesweepers. While engaged on D- tunate enough to recover from ovarian cancer. Day operations we struck a mine and sank in under 5 The cycle will be taking place in the Rajasthan area of minutes, losing 7 members of the crew. It was the India, starting at the Taj Mahal. Lorna is very appre- swimming lessons in the Boat Hole on the Spey that hensive, but excited about the challenge. She has re- saved my life because cently been planning some fund-raising events, and we all had to jump and will be holding a raffle on 31st October. She has asked swim for it. local businesses to help with her sponsorship, and would like to say a special thank you to Walkers In between time I served Shortbread, who have made a generous donation, and for 6 years on Rothes are also contributing to Lorna’s raffle. Baxters have Town Council, was also contributed to the raffle. treasurer of Rothes FC If you would like to sponsor Lorna, you can donate when we won the High- online at: www.justgiving.com/lorna-macinnes1 land League and a mem- ber of the Rothes Amen- ities Committee which raised sufficient cash to replace the Bowling Green which was washed away in 1945 by the Toons’ burn in spate. A drinking foun- tain was also placed in the park using the base of the old fountain which had got knocked down in the square by a military lorry. The bowling green when completed was handed over to the Rothes Town Coun- cil who appointed two members of the committee, Alan Clark and myself, and I was immediately ap- pointed the first secretary.

Rothes is my home town and I am very proud of it. I am fortunate to be near enough to be able to return whenever the longing occurs but there are not many kent faces there now. I look forward to receiving the Rothesian by courtesy of Jenny Widgery who I learn keeps another 21 happy by posting a copy to them. Alternatively, you can put a cheque, payable to Big Thank you Jenny it is very much appreciated. Cycle Challenge, through Lorna’s door at 75 High Street. If you would like to buy a raffle, you can do so Johnnie Hodge from Lorna. There will be 44 people taking part in the challenge, with Lorna the only one from Scotland taking part. Hopefully you can help—she will need plenty of en- couragement as she trains in and around Rothes over the next few months!

2 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge ROTHES HORTICULTURAL & INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY.

The Society are gearing up for their Annual Show on 5th September, in the Grant Hall. Staging will be erected on the Thursday evening (3rd)

from 6pm and we would welcome any offer of assis- tance on the night.

Friday night (4th) will see us collecting in the entries from 6.00pm until 9pm and then again on the Saturday 1ST ROTHES RAINBOWS & BROWNIES morning (5th) from 7.30am-9.30am. Schedules are still available in the local shops if you fancy entering, a The Rainbows & Brownies have recommenced warm welcome awaits new competitors. back after their summer break, the time flew by so Doors will open to the public at 1.30pm and the trophies quickly, we are back to the throngs of the Flower will be presented at 3.30pm. Show and the Rainbows have been colouring in an There will be refreshments on sale in the afternoon from Olivia picture and the Brownies have been making Friends of Linnburn. bookmarks. We have welcomed a few new girls to This year after the show we are hoping to have a Pro- Rainbows and Iona & Lucy moved up to Brownies. duce Sales Table with any donations left by the compet- We are looking ahead to September, Girlguid- itors, all donations from the sale will go to Society ing Moray will be launching our 100th year on the Funds. 5th at an event in RAF Kinloss, some of our girls During August the Rothes Gardens were judged and the will be taking part by carrying our flag & banners. 2009 winners are:- It will be wonderful to see all the Rainbows, Best Vegetable Garden - Mr Bert Grant, Spey Drive . Brownies, Guides, Senior Section & Leaders from Best Kept Garden - Mr C Munro, New Street. across Moray. We will then have many events Runner-Up Best Kept Garden - Mr & Mrs Newlands, throughout the year including trips to Landmark, Land Street . The Pantomime, Bowl 2000, Brownie Revels, Best Hanging Basket - Mr & Mrs Tilley, New Street. Rainbow Parties, and many more.... so the girls will Best Group of Containers - Mr E McWilliam, Provost hopefully have a wonderful year. The Centenary Christie Drive . year will close in October 2010 with all members All winners will receive their prizes at the Annual renewing their Promise. Show. Well done to all!. We have a few spaces available for girls who may be interested in coming along, telephone enquires welcome on 831201, 831147, 831137. PROPOSED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND

PEDESTIAN CROSSING SCHEME, ROTHES

SCHOOL REUNION- SPEYSIDE HIGH It is proposed to hold a public exhibition in Rothes Par- 4TH YEAR CLASS OF 1984/1985 ish Church Hall on Wednesday 9th September 3pm - 8pm, and Thursday 10th September 9am - 1pm Debby Holmes is still looking for people to reply to her invitation to the Class Reunion. The Reunion The exhibition will be a chance for residents and busi- will be taking place on Saturday 21st November nesses to comment on proposals for the introduction of and is to be held in Rothes Social Club. Replies to a pelican crossing in Rothes High Street along with be in by Sunday 20th September at the latest. waiting restrictions in High Street and New Street to For any further enquiries regarding the event or to alleviate congestion. reply to your invitation please contact Debby on 07765 060088. There are two different options for the crossing location and traffic engineers will be available to discuss the pro- posals at the exhibition. The Traffic section of Moray Council is keen to hear your views before a final deci- sion is made on the proposals.

This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge 3 A BIG THANK YOU TO SIMPSONS ROTHES ROVERS BAKERY - JUNE 09 The season is now over. The P6/7s did not have a The children in Primary 1/2 class at Rothes Primary great season but did not come last. The P4/5s came School have been learning all about Rothes as their third in the league, and the P3& unders played friendly topic this term. matches, winning more than they did last year. In the Walkers Tournament at Aberlour they came runners up to top team Speymouth. Also in the tournament Jack Reid was voted P4/5 goalie of the tournament for the second year running, and Aaron Ewen was voted P6/7 goalie of the tournament. A big thank you to all the parents & grandparents for

We would like to thank James and all the staff at Simpsons for letting us come to visit and learn about the bakery and the jobs that need to be done every day. We had lots of fun rolling dough and our rolls that we baked tasted delicious!! We enjoyed seeing all the dif- ferent machines especially the oatcake machine. their help during the season. Also thanks to Club "59" Thank you for our juice and biscuits too! We had a for the kind donation of footballs and training cones super time. for the P3 & under squad. Also to Scottish Hydro Electric (Duggie Christie)for the new set of strips for P3 & unders. Thank you also to the Gala Committee for the kind donation. Back in May, Graeme, Duggie, Andy, Michael and Craig went through their early touches course (level one), and at the end of June I went through the early touches (level two) coaching young footballer (all our legs are just about back to normal). At the moment we are still training in the public park, and still the kids least favourite activity is dodging the dogs dirt. Please can the dog walkers pick it up and put it in the bin which is at the most 100 metres away. Thank you. Training times are on a Friday from 6.30pm until 8.00pm. If any primary school child is interested in training please come along to the park on a Friday or give me a call. Willie Younie 01340 831732

4 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge ROTHES BOWLING CLUB ROTHES FAS ROTHES REPORT AUGUST 2009 This year Rothes Bowling Club celebrated its cen- tenary. The original bowling green was next to the During the last three months work has progressed well school behind the old tennis courts which is now part on all water courses. of Forsyth Avenue. On the 7th August 1945 the Rothes burn overflowed causing extensive flood dam- Key works undertaken during the period include: age. The pavilion and half the green was washed away. In 1953 the Rothes Amenities association laid a Back Burn new green at its present situation in the recreation Park Replacement of Glen Grant access Bridge at a cost of £1,800. This work was completed by Construction of Glen Grant flood walls Sportswork Ltd of Glasgow. In 1954 a new clubhouse Construction continues to strutted retaining wall east was built at a cost of £400 with £6,000 being spent in of New Street 1986 to upgrade the pavilion. Burn of Rothes In 1913 Rothes joined the Highland Bowling associa- Works to Provost Christie Drive flood wall are now tion with 3 members being Highland Bowling Associ- 90% complete ation presidents. New bridge footings have been completed for Bairn’s 1922 P Moroney Brig 1977 C Christie New bridge footings are ongoing for Playground 2002 I Shaw. Bridge In 1961 T Leadbetter and C Christie won the Highland Flood defences have commenced at Glen Rothes Dis- Bowling association Pairs. tillery CORD pipes have been diverted to allow new flood In our Annual Open pairs Competition this year 49 embankments to be constructed within the park. pairs from 17 bowling clubs took part. Graeme Chris- tie from Speyside Car Sales presented Isobel Kelman Black Burn and Finlay McPherson with the trophy. Willie Duncan Pond works and associated drainage are complete ex- and Bobby Shaw from Grant Park, Forres were defeat- cept for; landscaping and tree planting - due to com- ed in the final. The losing semi finalists were from mence next month Aberlour and Cooper Park. The main sponsors of this North culvert at ‘Old Toll’ has been completed competition were Speyside Car Sales, Bells and South culvert construction is on going Edrington. Access haul road has been constructed to upper es- The members of the Bowling Club thanks the Rothes carpment – to allow cut off ditch to be excavated Council for the donation from the Wind Farm Fund to above High Street and Land Street. The ditch will di- purchase 4 bench seats which each has a commemora- vert overland flows to the ‘Black Burn’ tive plate with the centenary plate. Over the coming months construction will be concen- Innes Shaw trated on all burns – with the former Burgh Chambers being demolished, commencing in September. Unfor- tunately traffic light systems must be established for public safety during the demolition works. Saturday ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB working will also increase over the next few months to allow current construction zones to be completed, and Rothes indoor bowling commences for the winter on reinstated before the winter weather sets in. Monday 21st September in the Rothes FC Social Club. There will be bowling on Monday and Tuesday eve- Key points of interest: nings. Hat nights are at 6.15pm and 7.30pm on Mon- Installation of new Bairn’s and Playground bridges day evenings. Everyone interested in indoor bowling are welcome. The Open Triple competition takes Bob Strachan place in January. Rothes FAS Scheme Manager

This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge 5 Fit like from New Zealand! BALL GROUP OUTING

Just a wee adage to your article about Henbog v's In July, some members of the BALL group had a very Cockinch. It brought back many memories when enjoyable trip to visit the Reindeer Farm in the Glens. my Dad came hame with many a bit of local infor- Tilly Smith had given us a really interesting talk earli- mation after a visit with Danny.! Growing up nearly er in Rothes and we were keen to meet the livestock over the road, Danny was always a font of knowledge for ourselves. It was a amazing experience being really ( a wee bit like a certain brother I have !!!! ) I just close to ‘Mr and Mrs Wild Boar’ as well as helping to loved this article and I hope that many people, feed the red deer and the reindeer. In the distance we like my Mam and Dad, Aunties and Uncles, and many spotted the Belted Galloway cattle and the Soay sheep neighbours over the years, pass there memories down heading down to the burn. After the farm we returned for the next generation. to the Golf Club where we enjoyed an excellent Although my bairns have been brought up many miles spread provided by Irene. away, they've always known there heritage and the The new session starts on Tuesday 1st September at afa fine stories (and the real hummdinger-over-the- 10am in the Kirk Hall and lasts until 12.15 or therea- top-ghostie-stories, that dear aul' Mam invented over bouts at £2.00. New members are always welcome. the years ) keep up the wonderful Rothesian, it's an assett. Lanie (Burgess) Tull

Mexico Challenge Coffee Morning

I would like to thank everyone who helped out and attended the world challenge Mexico coffee morning on Saturday 15th August. It was a great success and thanks to the help and support of the community we raised a final total of £250.35 which will go towards our final total. I would like to thank Irene Jamieson who made our pancakes and scones, as well as Colin Munro who fitted us in with his busy schedule and stuck around to help us out and keep us right on the day and to everyone else who donated raffle prizes. ROTHES HEALTH WALKS Gillian Lambie and I are also holding a Soup ‘n’ th Sweet in the Social Club on Sunday 20 September. Do you want to get fitter? Do you fancy going for a Tickets for our fundraising ceilidh are still available short walk but do not fancy going on your own? from Gillian or me and will be sold at the door, check Why not join the group who meet in Seafield Square posters around the town for further details of other about the Library every Thursday morning just before fundraising events. 10am to go for a short walk and then a coffee with a A big thanks to everyone, chat? Rebekah Simpson The next block of walks is due to start on 3rd Septem- ber. The walks are taken gently and as we all get fitter maybe a wee bit farther, but no-one is pushed out of Memorial Planters their comfort zone. New walkers The ‘Memorial Planters’ for tributes will be in place or would be by the War Memorial in Seafield Square on Tuesday walkers are 3rd November. This September it is 70 years since the welcome to outbreak of the Second World War, where once again join the many families were affected. All are welcome to place group. tributes for all casualties – not just those from the local See the post- area. ers if you would like more infor- mation.

6 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge

ROTHES HOMECOMING WEEKEND

FRIDAY 25th September

Welcome Barbeque and Entertainment at Glengrant Victorian Gardens - Start 7.00pm

SATURDAY 26th September

A Celebration of Famous Rothesians and exhibition of School Photos at Rothes Primary School 11am - 4pm

Exhibition of Rothes Photos over the years at The Grant Hall 11am – 4pm

A Scottish Night at the Grant Hall 7.15 – 10.30

SUNDAY 27th September

Exhibition of Rothes Photos over the years and Craft Fayre at the Grant Hall 10am – 4pm

A Celebration of Marriage at Rothes Parish Church starting 3pm

Fireworks Display Recreation Park 9pm

This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge 7 WELCOME BARBEQUE Supported by Campari

The Welcome to the Rothes Homecoming Barbeque will be held in the Glengrant Victorian Gardens on Friday 25th September starting 7pm.

Entertainment for the evening will be a local Pipe Band, Scottish Country Dancing and a Gaelic Choir.

Complimentary Glengrant Cocktail – Refreshments

Tickets (all inclusive) at £5.00 – (children £3.00) will be on sale from The Cottage, The Glen Grant Coffee Shop, Tawse the Butcher and members of Rothes Council

A CELEBRATION OF FAMOUS ROTHESIANS Hosted by staff and pupils of Rothes Primary School

An exhibition marking the achievements of celebrated Rothesians will take place at Rothes Primary School on Saturday 26th September from 11am to 4pm.

Information will be available on the lives of :- Allan Alexander ‘Scotty’ Allan Hugh Mackay Ross Brigadier General James Robb John Craigie

Also on display husky racing dogs and equipment and school photos over the ages. Donation £1.00 Tea or coffee will be on sale

8 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge GRAND PHOTO EXHIBITION By Betty Johnston and Graham Jefferson

The photo exhibition will take place in the Grant Hall on Saturday 26th September from 11am – 4pm and on Sunday 27th September from 10am – 4pm.

There are a large number of new photos on display and the programme is enhanced by a DVD of Rothes pictures shown on a wide screen TV.

CRAFT FAYRE - A Craft Fayre will be part of the Sunday’s event with demonstrations of crafts ongoing throughout the day.

Tea and coffee will be on sale on the Saturday with soup and sweet on sale on the Sunday.

Entrance Fee £1.00

A SCOTTISH NIGHT Sponsored by Henderson Decorators, The Old Cooperage And organised by Jim Bartlet

The Grand Scottish Night Concert will be held in the Grant Hall on Saturday the 26th September from 7.15 – 10.30

The entertainment will be provided by a wide range of north east talent and many weel kent faces.

Stovies, oatcakes and milk will be served on the night. Don’t forget to bring your own bottle.

Tickets - £5.00 will be on sale at the Cottage, Glengrant Coffee Shop, Tawse the Butcher, or from any Rothes Council member.

9 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE

As part of the Year of Homecoming Rothes Parish Church is hosting a celebration of Marriage Service in Rothes Kirk at 3:00 on Sunday 27 September 2009

People who have been married in Rothes Kirk or have been married at other venues by the Rothes Ministers down through the years are invited to gather in the Kirk to give thanks for their marriage and to join together in re-affirming their vows to one another.

If you know of people who have now left Rothes please let them know about this ser- vice.

Whilst the service is primarily for people married in Rothes Kirk or by Rothes Min- isters others in our community are welcome to come along to re-affirm their mar- riage vows if they wish to do so.

IF YOU HAVE ANY WEDDING PHOTOS WE WOULD BE VERY GRATEFUL IF YOU WOULD LEND THEM TO US SO THAT WE CAN DISPLAY THEM IN THE HALL PRIOR TO THE SERVICE

Please let the Minister have any photos, and remember to put your name and cur- rent address on the back so that we can return them to you.

The Rothes Homecoming Weekend has been organised by Rothes Council and Rothes Council Gala Committee. We would like to express our thanks to all who have worked with us on the programme and all who have sponsored events.

We also wish to acknowledge the financial help we received from the Leader and Moray Council Homecoming Fund.

Contact e-mail details: – [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Telephone – Pearl Paul 01340831761 - Jim Anderson 01340831328 Irene Shaw 01340832350 Address – Rothes Council, The Cottage, 86 New Street, Rothes, AB38 7BJ Opening times at the Cottage :- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 11am to 3pm and Saturday 11am to 1pm

10 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge Rothes Diary 24th October Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Rothes Visitors Centre) th Please note that the diary displayed in the Rothes 24 October British Summer Time ends Clocks Library window, is updated every two weeks and BACK one hour! 26th October Schools Reopen after Autumn Break takes in changes which occur during the time be- st tween the Rothesian quarterly editions, especially 31 October Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Air in the run up to the Festive Season and holiday Cadets) November breaks. Please keep Sandra informed of events rd and meetings as fundraising works best with no 3 November Memorial Planters available by the War Memorial for tribute crosses. competition! th Please note the special email address for the diary: 7 November Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club [email protected] th If you would like the diary emailed to you, please 14 November Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall (Ladies Golf) contact this address. th th th 13 /16 /17 November Schools Closed In- service Training 2009 st September 21 November Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall (Senior th Citizens) 5 September Annual Flower Show in Grant Hall st th 21 November Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club (Entries 4 September) th 5th September Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social 28 November Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Church Funds) Club th 7th September First ‘KeepFit’ of new session in 30 November St Andrew’s Day December Kirk Hall 6-7pm th 12th September Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall 5 December Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club (Ladies Golf) th 12th September Homecoming Ceilidh in Craigella- 12 December Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall (Rothes chie Village Hall. Funds raised for Craigellachie Vil- Primary School) 19th December Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club lage Hall nd 14th September Storytime at Library new session. 22 December Schools close for Christmas Break. 2010 All children age 3 to P3 welcome 2.45 to 3.15pm th th 7 January Schools reopen after Christmas Break 17 September Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club th NB THURSDAY 9 January Proposed Ladies Group Panto Trip to 19th September Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall Eden Court. 12/13th February Schools closed Half Term Break (Bowlers) th 19th September Private Birthday Party in Rothes 26 March Schools close for Easter Break FC Social Club 25th September Rothes Homecoming Weekend – Welcome Barbeque at Glen Grant Victorian Gardens starting 7pm Entertainment Tickets £5 26th September Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Church Funds) 26th September Rothes Homecoming – Photo Exhi- bitions in Grant Hall and Rothes School. Famous Rothesians Celebration in School. Grand Scots Night in Grant Hall with stovies oatcakes and milk £5(byob) 27th September Photo Exhibition and Moray Craft Fayre in Grant Hall. Special Service in Church for couples married in Rothes Kirk 30th September Spey Fishing Season ends October 1st October Prize Bingo at Rothes Golf Club 7pm for 7.30pm 3rd October Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club 9th October Schools close for Autumn Break 10th October Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Boys Brigade) 17th October Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall (Baby and Toddler Group) 17th October Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 22nd October Pension Advisory Service in Rothes Surgery 1.30 to 3.30pm Appointments, if desired, 01343 528034

11 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge the team. Up until now, our cadets have had to travel to the TA centre in Elgin for shooting practice. This will save all the travelling, meaning they can spend more time shooting – a favourite activity within the group. Hopefully too, it will encourage more recruits to join our ranks”. SPEYSIDE AIR CADETS ON TARGET Under close supervision at all times, the air cadets can now hone their shooting skills with air rifles during normal parade nights. The facility was possible thanks Members of the Speyside Air Training Corps to sizeable donations from Diageo plc and The Air celebrated the official opening of their new Training Corps. The building work was carried out by demountable air rifle range on their first evening back staff, parents and cadets – a real team effort. after the summer break. Young people can enjoy many activities through the Air Training Corps. Meetings are held in the Grant Hall, Rothes from 6.30pm – 9.00pm on Mondays and Thursdays. Cadets come from the whole Speyside area and new recruits between the ages of 13 and 18 are always welcome.

“Hats off” say Lord Lieutenant Moray Lt Col Grenville Johnston OBE TD CA and Lord Lieuten- ant Banffshire Mrs Clare Russell, unveiling the commemorative plaque. (left) Cadet Cameron Flynn and Cadet Natalie Brown pause from shooting on the demountable range

Taking place at The Grant Hall, New Street, Rothes on Monday 17 August, Lord Lieutenant for Banffshire, Mrs Clare Russell and Lord Lieutenant for Moray, Lt Col Grenville S Johnston OBE TD CA declared the shooting range open, unveiling a commemorative LIBRARY NEWS plaque. Angus Robertson, Member of Parliament was also present. Librarian, Arlene McLean, has left Rothes, and is now Cadets gave a demonstration of the easily assembled working at Burghead Library. equipment. Guests were able to admire their shooting We would like to wish her all the best, and thank her skills from a viewing gallery. for the time and energy she put into working in Flying Officer Sarah Birkett explained the idea of a Rothes. Our loss is Burghead’s gain! demountable range was the brainchild of Civilian In- structor, Kev Allsop. Although it had taken 4 years to come to fruition, the equipment was well worth the wait. She enthused; - “This is a fantastic new piece of kit for

12 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge FOOTBALL GRAMPIAN FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE - ROTHES. When I was young football was always great fun. We would meet in the park after tea time and play with Rothes Fire Station will be holding a charity car wash any old ball we could get, whoever had a ball was cap- during October, further details will be advertised lo- tain and had first choice of players, somebody else cally and in the local press nearer the time. took turns to pick their team. Both loons and quines Two of our local firefighters are taking part in the 1st played together with Patsy Laing being one of the bet- Monster Team Challenge on Saturday 12th September, ter players. We rarely had a real football, and when this is the 3rd year that Kevin Ness & Philip Hendry whoever owned the ball went home that was the end have taken part in this charity event which involves of the game. One day when Rothes were playing at cycling and running approx. 30km each. home the ball went over the fence into Meldrum’s Anyone wishing to sponsor the lads please get in touch cornfield and couldn’t be found. The next day we with them direct. All proceeds raised by them goes to found it and had great fun playing with a real ball, un- Save the Children, The Firefighter's Charity and local fortunately it came to an end when the Club claimed it causes. Many thanks. back.

I remember playing for Rothes School against Elgin Academy in the Cooper Park. We changed into our kit ROTHES LADIES’ GROUP and left our clothes on a bench outside the pavilion. During the game a gale blew up and our clothes were Our new session starts on Tuesday 15th September and scattered everywhere. My new white shirt couldn’t be we celebrate our 25th birthday that night. There will be found, I reckon it blew into the pond. You can imag- a buffet and musical entertainment. All current mem- ine the trouble I was in when I got home! bers together with any new ones are cordially invited to attend. We also extend an invitation to all former Rothes Highland League team, when I was at school, members to come and celebrate this milestone with us. consisted of mainly local players, I’d no money to get Please confirm your attendance to either Margaret into the ground but watched them from up a tree from Matthews (831487) or Mary Anderson (831328) so outside the ground. I did sometimes get to away games that we can pass the numbers to the caterer. The cost with my two uncles, Jock and Jimmy, they had a mo- for the evening is £8.50. torbike and sidecar. One day going to Forres the side- Looking ahead, we have Decora and Wiltshire Foods car punctured so I had to sit between the bike and side- for future months and, of course, our annual visit to car. Happy Days. the PANTO on Saturday 9th January. Margaret Matthews I’ve always followed Rothes, and when I was in the President army waited patiently for the football results in ‘The Northern Scot’ which granny sent to me every week. My biggest regret was being in Belgium in 1959, the year they won the Highland League. I wonder if it ROTHES COUNCIL will ever happen again.

The Rothes Council meetings will resume on Monday Jimmy Logan 7th September after their summer break. The meetings

are held on the first Monday of the month in the Cot-

tage at 7.30pm unless otherwise intimated. All meet-

ings are open to the public. All welcome. CALENDARS AND CARDS

The Rothes and Speyside/Glenlivet Calendars and Christmas Cards will be on sale in the Cottage from mid September. The cottage opening hours are 11am to 3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and on a Saturday from 11am to 1pm.

This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge 13 Homecoming Scotland 2009! ing. I have been fortunate in having dad, uncle Her- bert Smith and auntie Doris Shaw (2 children of my As summer approaches and the sap is rising in the great Auntie Nellie Smith) to ask many questions re- plants, a similar phenomenon happens within the Al- lating to the family. lan clans psyche, there is a definite rush of adrenalin, a need to travel north towards the Highlands to have our I would like to visit ‘the Cottage’ the Rothes Visitor spiritual batteries recharged again. As the swallows, and Resource Centre next time we are up, unfortunate- swifts and other migrant birds make their journeys ly it was closed the day we visited. And by the letters back to their birthplace so we too feel the magnetic we read in the Rothesian your newsletter helps many tug, a homecoming instinct, a yearning. people researching their roots. Thank you! When we visit Elgin we always visit the Family History Centre, Our Dad Lewis Robb Allan was 87 on June 10th this Graeme and his staff are so helpful. Their website year, and every year without fail, especially as he has libindx.moray.gov.uk has been invaluable, and it is got older he says, “I don’t know if I will get back to FREE. Last year I was able to get maps of various Rothes this year, I think last year was the last time”. graveyards and find the final resting places of several And without fail we say “Dad you always say that, of ancestors. Often these are places of great beauty. course you will go back to your beloved Rothes , ‘cos Dundurcus being one of my favourites, is where Alex- don’t forget you have that plot of land up in Rothes ander Allan blacksmith at Garbity, my great, great cemetery!!” He always laughs and says “you cheeky grandfather is buried. Also one of his sons John Al- little…….” We understand dad’s need to visit the lan , blacksmith at Orton, my great grand father is bur- place of his birth, to gaze on familiar scenes, and some ied there. John had 11 children by his first wife Eu- familiar faces. To stand and reminisce outside what phemia Mowatt who died when she was only 37. He was once “Coleena” 11 North Street, the house where married again when he was 52 to Annie Innes and fa- he was born, and just let those memories wash over thered 2 other children, one of those being my grand- him. Thank goodness for long term memory, a great dad Lewis Henderson Allan carpenter at Glen Grant, solace as you get older and your short term memory the other being Nellie Smith, who was the shopkeeper starts to fail. at Burnside Cottage at Orton. She was at one point the oldest shopkeeper in Scotland, she died at the grand This year is the year of Homecoming Scotland 2009, old age of 98! (dad has his homecoming Scotland badge proudly pinned to his jacket!) a celebration of the 250th anni- My great, great uncle James Allan was the blacksmith versary of Robert Burns birth date, Scotlands national at Allanbraes Orton. Jimmy Gray lived there for many poet. It is also a celebration of Scotlands great contri- years. I visited Jimmy and he showed dad and I the bution to the world, whether it be its rich culture or pine dresser that had been made by our family, and heritage, its great minds or its inventions. Or like a lot also took us into the forge. Time had stood still, we of Scottish folk the celebration of our own families stood by the bellows that had once breathed life into ancestry. Throughout Scotland and further afield there the hearth, where the red hot coals turned iron into are many events celebrating this occasion. There is a horse shoes. Hardy folk, Sadly, now the house is emp- good website www.homecomingscotland.com listing ty and the ravages of time and the elements are claim- a calendar of events, (for those with computers), or ing it. Once an old cheese/apple press stood by the your local tourist information office can provide you wall, but somebody must have seen its worth and spir- with forthcoming events. We only wish we lived clos- ited it away! Burnside Cottage too is derelict, I shiver er to Scotland. when I remember the life that once evolved within its walls. A busy little shop. Auntie Nellie short and wiry Twenty five years ago Dad and I decided to research blethering to the fishermen. Tin enamel advertise- our Scottish family history, there were no computer ments on the walls. Bars of chocolate displayed on a web sites, very few self help books, hence we gleaned bone china sandwich plate! Uncle Charles Smiths our information very slowly. We visited the Church garage now stands empty. A home where several chil- of the Latter Day Saints at Ipswich to use their micro- dren were brought into the world, and where several of fiche machines to check parish records, and so our them died. Chickens and ducks ran about the box amazing journey began. The birth, marriages and edged garden where hives of bees provided honey. death records of previously unknown ancestors, have And as children we played by the burn with the old become real people, with flesh on their bones. We black stove such innocent pleasure. The garden has now know about where they had lived, jobs they had, been bulldozed beyond recognition, but still the house and the social events in their lives. We can now with stands defiantly. the help of www.scotlandspeople.com and www.ancestry.co.uk weave our way back in time in Dads mum Jane Mary Robb lived in Green Street at the comfort of our home. I am certain that many of Riverslea , her father was Archibald Robb who ran a you are doing the same, it is so absorbing and reward- successful carpenters business in Rothes, employing

14 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge many carpenters, I think that is how my granddad met ROTHES FOUNTAIN my grandmother. Sadly the business went into bank- ruptcy when a client failed to pay the large amount In reply to Raymond McDonald’s query in the last owed to him. Dad and I have also been researching edition of ‘The Rothesian’ about what became of the the Robb side of the family too, ably assisted by John fountain in Seafield Square, the following snippet ap- Grays Rothes Past and Present, which is almost like a peared in the ‘Echoes of the Past’ column in the bible to us, in fact we are related to John by marriage! Northern Scot in April 1994:- Over the years many of our Scottish ancestors emi- grated for various reasons, and bravely made new lives *(From the files of “The Northern Scot” April 22, for themselves in Canada, Alaska and New Zealand. 1944) A few of them returned home to visit, and some re- turned home to be buried. No regrets - The fountain in Seafield Square, Rothes The Homecoming of 2009 for us as a family means has been knocked down and extensively damaged by a many things. To know that our ancestors lived their military vehicle, the town’s council heard on Monday lives in the countryside around Rothes, their eyes night. Provost A Forsyth, presiding, remarked among looked over the Spey to Ben Aigen, they lived out laughter that the driver who had done so should be their hopes and dreams there, some before they took given £5.00. They had wanted to move it for a long their families to foreign shores, and now we stand time, as it has been an eyesore for more than 30 years, where they once stood. We feel very proud of our but they could not as it was on Seafield Estate. He did Scottish heritage, and it gives us the warmth and secu- not think they should make any claim – they had got a rity of belonging, of having roots. A constancy which good job done cheaply. It was agreed that the clerk is so important to us all, whether we live at home or should make enquiries as to ownership. many miles away. Long may our family make that journey. The house that Raymond refers to was built, according We will be back!!! to John R Gray in his book “Rothes Past and Present”, towards the end of the nineteenth century to replace Jenni Whitmarsh, Lewis Allan and Clan three small thatched houses. It was destroyed by fire email [email protected] on 19th July 1924 when Mrs Moroney, wife of the Ex- cise man at Glengrant Distillery, along with her three children aged 9, 6 and 2 perished. Patrick Moroney died within a couple of years of the tragedy on 27th June 1926 and the family’s grave is marked by a strik- SENIOR CITIZENS ing looking Celtic cross just at the opening between the old and the new parts of Rothes cemetery. The new sessions begin on Wednesday 9th October in the Church Hall, at 2.30pm The site was derelict until 1931 when it was rebuilt as Old and new members welcome. Bring your own cup St Drostan’s (Episcopal) Church with the walls of the please. old house forming the outer walls of the church. The Jean Allan church was dedicated by the Primus Bishop of Moray on Palm Sunday 1931 and was still being used when John Gray published his book in 1954 but by 1957 the congregation had fallen to 12 and it was considered uneconomical to retain the church. Moreover, the Very Reverend Dean C A E Wolfe of Aberlour Or- phanage who conducted the services was due to retire in 1958 so the church was closed. The building was re -opened as the Rothes FC Social Club in 1967.

John Tilley

This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge 15 HENBOG & COCKINCH ROTHES TENNIS CLUB

Henbog and Cockinch have appeared in the Rothesian We did not have a very successful league campaign and I am impressed with Danny Cameron’s story of this year. The Men’s A team was relegated, managing the origin. In our young day Rothes had a number of only one draw in their ten matches. The Ladies team ‘worthies’, Dick Ross being one of the best and never was also relegated, and will play in Division three next short of an answer. I am sure, however, that even year. We did manage to field a second Men’s team, Dick could not have thought up that one. but failed to win any of the eight fixtures. The only competition I can recall between Henbog and The Mixed team prevented the season from being a Cockinch was for the Davidson Cup played on a Fri- total disaster, winning 5 and drawing one of their day evening throughout the summer holidays. The matches. Rothiemurchus was the only club that man- rules were you had to be under 14 on the first Friday aged to get away with a win. of the holidays and live in Rothes. If you became 14 A lot of credit must go to our Under 16 members, who after the competition had started you were allowed to stepped in to play in various fixtures. Well done to continue playing. The match that really mattered was Lauren, Hannah, Johanne, Sophie, Michael and Ken- the cup final on the last Friday before the end of the neth. holidays. A proper referee had to be in charge (this Our chairman, Hugh Tawse, had a successful two was always Bob Nicol from High Street who took his weeks at the beginning of August in the Elgin and duties very seriously) and Watchy Davidson, the do- Grantown Tournaments. In Elgin, he won the Mixed nor of the cup to provide the refreshments and eats at Handicap, partnered by Jenny Munro from the home half time, and to present the cup to the captain of the club, overcoming Keith opponents to take the title. At winning team who had to make a speech. It was a Grantown, he also reached the Final of the Mixed very serious business. I don’t know if the practice Handicap, this time partnered by Lindsay Milne from continues but it was eagerly looked forward to as the the Strathspey club. Unfortunately, the duo lost to El- holidays approached. gin opposition, despite a valiant second set comeback The photograph of 1938 has appeared before in the which saw them fight back to square at 5 all, but they Rothesian but this time with names. were unable to continue their run and lost by two sets Johnnie Hodge to love. Top North coach, Jimmy McCechnie came to the club Hodge, Fraser, Hodge, Stewart, Newlands with his assistant on the last two weeks of the holi- Sherret, Shepherd, McDonald days. He has agreed to continue this on a monthly ba- sis throughout the Autumn, and, weather permitting, the winter too. About 30 of our young members at- tended the two sessions. Many thanks to the Windfarm Fund, which provided us with £300 to help with the cost of the sessions. Hamish McBain

Grant, Sherret

Yori Johnston, daughter of Lynne and Raymond, graduated Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Primary Education from Aberdeen University. She is now teaching in Stonehaven.

16 This issue sponsored by Johnnie Hodge