Photo by Peter Teago AN CARRANNACH The General Interest Magazine of , Shieldaig, , Kishorn, Torridon & Kinlochewe Districts

Glas Bheinn by Vivienne Goodman age 11

NO: 385 APRIL 2020 £1.00

LOCHCARRON MEDICAL PARTNERSHIP FERGUSON MEDICAL CENTRE

On account of the current Corona virus (Covid-19) pandemic, we have had to change the way we do things at the Practice.

We are committed to running a safe service for both our patients and staff. The plan is to make more use of telephone consultations and possibly video consultations with Near Me.

To order your prescription please use the prescription line 01520 722661 or post your repeat slip through the letter box.

At present we are keeping the surgery door locked. To collect prescriptions, knock on the door and prescriptions will be given to you. This may change over time and for those self isolating, please contact a neighbour/friend or family to collect your prescription.

For the latest guidelines and the most up-to-date information, please go to the NHS Inform website https:// www.nhsinform.scot/.

If you have a high temperature or a new continuous cough (but are otherwise reasonably well)

Stay at home for 7 days from the day your symptoms started Other family or friends staying in the same household must isolate for 14 days

[If your condition worsens or you start experiencing difficulty in breathing contact the surgery or 111].

To Prevent Infection Hand hygiene remains the most important factor in preventing the spread of infection. Wash your hands regularly (for 20 seconds) with hot water and soap Use hand sanitizer gel when soap and water not available Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze, not your hands Put used tissues in the bin immediately

Social Distancing/Self Isolation Stay away from everyone, especially the elderly or those in the high risk group Stay in a room with good ventilation, opening the windows if you can Try to stay 2 metres away from other family members, where possible Try to use a separate bathroom and towels from other family members

In light of the ongoing changes, by the time this article goes to press things may well have progressed and will possibly continue to do so over the coming weeks. Please consult the NHS Inform website https:// www.nhsinform.scot/.for up-to-date information.

1 All Saints (Scottish Episcopal) Mission Kinlochewe AN CARRANNACH Published by An Carrannach Society, Lochcarron.

(part of the world-wide Anglican Chairperson: Joanna Macpherson

Communion) Deputy Chair Roger Cundiff

Editorial Content Material for publication must be emailed to Michelle Teago at invites you to services on the first [email protected] or a phone Sunday of the month at 2.30pm call to 01520 722688

Sub Editor Joanna Macpherson (Church of Kinlochewe building) Area Representatives:

Applecross: Kishorn: Carol Cocks 01520 733 213 Shieldaig: Helen Collins Everyone welcome Torridon: Further info: (01445 781454) Features: A Word from the Church/On Reflection Gardening – To be confirmed Nature Notes – Hatty Arthur – (Scottish Charity Number: 01520 722 551 Email: [email protected] SCO04655) Advertising: [email protected]

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Please note we can now accept copy in any format..

CLOSING DATE FOR THE MAY 2020 ISSUE

MATERIAL MUST BE RECEIVED BY NO LATER THAN 15TH APRIL PLEASE Errors and omissions excepted.

The An Carrannach Society does not accept responsibility for the content/accuracy of reports, articles and advertisements received. The views expressed by contributors are NOT necessarily those of the Society.

2 FREE CHURCH LOCHCARRON & CHURCH OF SCOTLAND APPLECROSS APPLECROSS, LOCHCARRON & TORRIDON Charity No: SCO32334 You are welcome at our services Lochcarron Church Street IV54 Times and Places of Worship for April 2020

8YP 5th April Lochcarron 10.30am Torridon Community Hall 1.00pm 9th April Maundy Thursday Sunday 11am and 6 pm (with Courthill Congregation) Upper Room, Lochcarron Village Hall 7.00pm 10th April Good Friday (with Courthill Congregation) (Crèche and Sunday school) Courthill Chapel 7.00pm Midweek Wednesdays 7.30pm 12th April Easter Sunday Lochcarron 10.30am Shieldaig 1.00pm Applecross Camusterrach IV54 19th April Lochcarron 10.30am 8LU (with Courthill congregation) Kinlochewe 1.00pm 3 pm every Sunday 26th April Lochcarron 10.30am Applecross 1.00pm Shieldaig 1.00pm Other events as intimated. Scottish Charity SC038169 Minister Rev. Anita Stutter Rev M. Florit 01520 722999 Tel. 01520 722783

[email protected] Email [email protected]

www.freechurch.org ALL ARE WELCOME

3 husband and I decided instead of giving up something we like, we try to find something ON positive every time we encounter something we don’t like or is negative. Or in other words, when dark clouds cross our path, and they will, we try to REFLECTION find if there is a silver lining. Challenging… but on several occasions we have seen the rewards of it. At the moment the news is dominated by the Coronavirus and Scotland has just entered the And so, while the dark cloud of the Coronavirus delay phase. There is a fast increase of cases in the sadly will stay with us for an unknown period of UK, hand gel, anti-bacterial soaps and toilet paper time, and while we should not underestimate the have disappeared rapidly from the shelves in the seriousness of this illness especially for those who shops. The NHS is preparing for a massive influx are vulnerable and elderly, could it be that despite of serious ill patients and this week on budget day the challenges that it will certainly bring, that there the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak are also some silver linings. The linings where we promised that whatever the NHS financially need discover that goodness is stronger than evil, and to deal with the Coronavirus outbreak, it will get it. love stronger than hate. The linings where we see that people are working together, where people are Of course, in April when you read this, the making sure that those in need are fine. situation may well have changed. But at the time of writing there is the prospect of closing schools, Random acts of kindness shown to fellow men and universities and perhaps even restrictions on our women. And if we open our eyes, I am sure that movements. This is all to stop the spreading of the even in the midst of this crises we find blessings, disease and protecting especially those who are positive things, that will make our life a bit vulnerable and the elderly. brighter and lighter, will surround our lives with that much needed silver lining. People are concerned and fearful of what is to come. They are not only worried about the health of loved ones or themselves, but there are also concerns the impact the virus will have on all these youngsters who sit exams soon, on businesses and on the economy.

The Coronavirus is not the only dark cloud hanging over our heads. Although it seems a bit on the backburner, we have to organise our leave from the EU and deal with the uncertainties of unknown future deals. And there is the issue of Climate change that presents itself more and more to us. We have seen the wettest February on record. We have one gale after another. And the much-needed sunshine is in very short supply.

We live in a world with many dark clouds, literally and metaphorically speaking. The issues are immense, or even overwhelming.

At the moment we live in the time of Lent. A time of reflection on life, on the meaning of life. The period of preparing for Easter, the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. The big event in history where God showed the world that life is stronger than death, goodness stronger than evil and love stronger than hate.

Lent is often a time people give up something they enjoy. Very often …. chocolate. However, my

4

LOCHCARRON FOOD CENTRE, MAIN STREET, LOCHCARRON ROSS-SHIRE, IV54 8YD

www.lochcarronfoodcentre.co.uk

01520 722209

AS EVERYONE IS AWARE, WE ARE ALL GOING THROUGH A TOUGH TIME JUST NOW.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

WE HAVE MADE A FEW CHANGES TO OUR USUAL LOCAL FREE HOME DELIVERIES. WE CAN LEAVE YOUR SHOPPING ON YOUR DOORSTEP SO WE HAVE NO CONTACT WITH YOU OR YOUR DOOR HANDLES ETC. PLEASE JUST PHONE 01520 722209 AND LEAVE AN ORDER FOR DELIVERY LATER THAT DAY. PAYMENT CAN BE MADE OVER THE PHONE BY CARD, BY CASH ON DELIVERY OR BY BACS TRANSFER.

FOR AS LONG AS WE ARE IN A POSITION TO HELP, THEN WE WILL. WE ARE LUCKY TO BE IN A POSITION THAT WE CAN DELIVER 2 TO 3 TIMES A DAY AND WE HAVE A FULLY STOCKED SHOP!

PLEASE REMEMBER TO USE THE HAND SANITISER PUMPS WHEN ENTERING THE SHOP FOR THE SAFETY OF NOT ONLY YOURSELVES BUT OUR STAFF WHO ARE PUTTING THEMSELVES AT RISK TO SERVE YOU! OUR DOOR HANDLES, CARD MACHINES, BASKETS, TROLLEYS ETC ARE ALL BEING REGULARY WIPED DOWN WITH ANTI BAC CLEANER.

IF YOU HAVE JUST RETURNED FROM ABROAD OR HAVE ANY OF THE CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOMS, THEN PLEASE DO NOT COME INTO THE STORE, PHONE FOR A FREE DELIVERY INSTEAD.

MANY THANKS AND STAY SAFE EVERYONE!

EMMA, HECTOR, PAM AND TONY

5 Bare trees and spring flowers This wasn't an issue with the tree I drew at by Cindie Reiter The Albatross Cafe, thanks to Pnut and Lisa, I was able to tuck myself away in a corner for After the truly rotten weather of the last few several hours (over a couple of sessions) and months, I am able to take pleasure in my include lots of details to try and get a real feel walks again and manage to meander around for the trees just outside the window. I plan to the village and back home again fairly warm go back in a wee while and draw the trees and dry. In just a couple of weeks Spring again, with some leaves on this time. seems to have arrived in Lochcarron and we've gone from bare trees and Winter storms to fewer storms and some sunny days in which to enjoy the newly emerging buds and spring flowers that seem to be popping up everywhere just now.

There are crocuses nestled in the grass along the shore in Lochcarron and lots of cultivated primroses, though I've not seen any wild ones yet, so I've been sketching those as well as the snowdrops at the Old Kirk. The thing about drawing primroses, snowdrops and crocuses though (and trees) is that they have to be sketched in situ. Even if one ignored the issue of collecting wild plants (which I would never do) I have found in the past, from picking bluebells in my own garden, that they do not The more detailed drawing of the snowdrops, last long enough to draw them. So, sketches was done in the studio using a whole series of and photos are the best way of recording sketches which were done a few weeks ago them. outside in the graveyard and some rather poor photos. I was quite pleased with the final However, sketching outside tends to be results though, the photo I've included shows rushed at this time of year, because it is pretty Alfie Edwards presenting a cheque for £2000 to Chris W for some of these drawings, including some cold and you need tothe get helipad close fund. enough to take measured sketches, a rough sketch in which I measurements and see the details but sitting tried to capture the growth pattern and the on wet grass is far from pleasant, so it's quite detailed studies that I did in my studio. a challenge to get all the details in. I tend to do a very rough drawing or two and then try Now that the weather is getting warmer, I'm to add details from the photos that I've taken able to stay outside for longer. I'm hoping to when I'm back in my studio. capture some of the glory of the daffodils, which are beginning to appear, though I will be able to have some of those indoors too for closer observation, they look very different in drifts or in pots than they do in a jug or vase.

I'm concentrating on botanicals right now because Aileen Grant and I have been very kindly invited by the Macpherson family to hold a series of mini exhibitions at the Gatehouse at Attadale Gardens this year (something we're very grateful for). Hopefully we will be holding exhibitions/workshops later in the year. But you can also find details on our website.

www.lochcarronarts.com

6

CHRIS HINGLEY TREE SERVICES

All aspects of tree surgery & felling undertaken by certified and insured operator.  Chris on 01520 744452 Or email [email protected] www.chrishingleytreeservices.co.uk

7 Applecross peninsula a haven for some WEATHER RECORD - SLUMBAY very busy marine life FEBRUARY 2020

The Applecross peninsula is a haven for wildlife, both rare and those more widely Max Temp Min Temp Rainfall recognised. The mix of mountains, rivers, Date: in oC in oC in inches estuary, the calm waters of the Inner 1 8.00 -0.90 0.08 Sound, bog and peatland, upland and lowland make the area a breeding ground 2 7.60 -0.40 0.56 for all manner of creature, from golden 3 7.00 2.80 0.30 eagle to sea otters and pine martins. This is 4 7.50 4.70 0.02 also the case for salmon and sea trout. In 5 7.70 6.40 0.05 order to ensure protection of its habitat and to encourage the species to flourish, it is 6 8.10 -1.70 ----- crucial to monitor activity. And this is what 7 10.20 -1.30 0.71 Marine Scotland has been doing - tacking 8 7.60 2.40 0.71 sea trout and salmon smolts within Loch Torridon – and it produced some 9 8.90 1.80 0.69 fascinating results. 10 4.70 1.60 0.34 11 5.10 1.60 0.88 Biologist, Jim Rafferty at Marine Scotland, 12 6.20 -1.70 0.07 comments, “The work has yielded large amounts of data, which will keep us busy 13 7.10 -3.10 ----- for years to come. We have encountered a 14 8.30 4.30 0.56 mystery behaviour where sea trout smolts 15 9.00 1.80 1.02 appear to disappear from the array at night. We believe the fish either move into 16 7.70 3.20 0.79 shallow water or into river mouths.” 17 7.60 2.60 0.34 18 6.70 2.20 0.36 It is the movements of the smolts that has 19 9.10 1.70 0.93 been of most interest though. The fish were tagged at the Shieldaig trap on the 27 May 20 8.40 1.30 0.61 2019, measuring 168mm /45 gramm. The 21 9.00 1.80 0.72 fish enter the sea on 28 May, spending the 22 5.40 0.40 0.16 next few days close to the mouth of the Shieldaig river. They stay in the area 23 5.20 -0.60 0.42 between Upper loch Torridon and loch 24 2.90 -1.10 0.03 Shieldaig until mid-July where they were 25 6.60 0.40 0.37 spotted in the sea pool in Applecross on 17 26 5.10 0.00 0.08 July. By 24 July they are back in the area around loch Shieldaig, and last detected at 27 6.10 1.10 0.40 the mouth of the Balgy on 30 July. 28 5.70 2.40 0.44 29 6.70 1.10 0.22 “We suspect that the tag ran out of juice at this point and so have no more data. But that’s some swimming!” says Jim. TOTAL FEBRUARY 2020 11.86 Jim – and Marine Scotland – will be RUNNING TOTAL 2020 23.18 deploying loggers on posts at points in Applecross to further monitor the sea trout. TOTAL FEBRUARY 2019 6.13 RUNNING TOTAL 2019 15.22 8 Lochcarron Fundraising Group for Hospice

A. G.M

Tuesday 7th April

AZALEA COTTAGE 7PM

If you feel that you can help us in any way please come to our Meeting, we welcome New Members, New Ideas. If you are unable to attend the Meeting but would like to help please phone Rita Sykes on 722995 for a chat.

PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR HIGHLAND HOSPICE

Lochcarron Garage and Shop

If you are elderly or vulnerable and self-isolating, we are happy to deliver your shopping. We can also pick up your medicines. Please call on 01520 722997.

9 Coronavirus and the Howard Doris Centre.

As a result of the rapidly developing threat of the Coronavirus the Board of the Howard Doris Centre issued the following update on 17th March 2020. Continuing Care Our primary responsibility is to protect, support and care for the tenants and patients within the Centre. Taking account of advice from the Scottish Government and Highland Health Board to protect vulnerable people, until further notice we have: Suspended our Day Care service Closed the building to any meetings involving the general public Closed the building to all visitors except one designated friend or relative per tenant or patient Members of staff will be scrupulous with hand washing and will not come to work if they have any symptoms suggestive of a viral infection. They will also self-exclude if they have any reason to believe that they may have been exposed to the Coronavirus. Support in the Community Our secondary responsibility is to continue to support our Day Care clients who are no longer able to attend the Centre as before. We have been in touch with each of them by telephone and, for those in the Lochcarron area we can deliver a cooked lunch. We hope to be able to expand this and other services to all members of the community who may have become isolated. Please contact us on 01520 722541 if you need help. Can you help? We are very grateful to our volunteers who have manned the reception desk since October. If the Corona pandemic develops as is predicted it is likely that we may require volunteer carers over the coming weeks and months. If you have experience of caring and could be free to help please call us. Dr David Murray, On behalf of The Howard Doris Centre Board 17/03/20.

KISHORN PLAYING FIELD CLUB 2020

The Kishorn Playing Field Club is delighted to announce that 2020 will be the third year that they have been able to offer family friendly sports and activities on The Dell in Kishorn on specific Sundays throughout the summer. Numbers are steadily increasing and it would be great to see some new faces as well as old, so please do come and enjoy a selection of games from Football to Shinty, Quoits to Kubb. We have also received some donations of equipment from Nick Flanagan (Lochalsh Youth Football) and some equipment for early years from Lilian Ross whom many children in the area will know from Feis Rois sessions at Lochcarron and Shieldaig Primary schools. Thank you both very much indeed. The sessions are run by an enthusiastic and talented team. All suggestions gratefully received and as these are family friendly get togethers, there is a certain amount of flexibility depending on what ages turn up on the day. Huge thanks are due to Mike and Lynda Beveridge and Robert MacInnes for all their hard work, without which the weekend sessions could not take place. The sessions are free of charge and a really good way of entertaining everyone plus The Dell is next to the beach and the Loch for anyone who fancies a cooling swim afterwards! Please see the advertisement for specific dates. For more information: kishornplayingfieldclub.wordpress.com or email: [email protected] We have an active Facebook page and please do check via one of the above methods if the weather is looking unsuitable prior to coming along! Last but certainly not least, thank you very much to the following for their very kind donations which keep the Kishorn Playing Field Club up and running: Scottish Sea Farms - Nigel and Hilary Macleod Scottish Sea Farms - Heart of the Community The National Lottery - Awards For All Comunity Fund Hands On Events We are enormously grateful for your ongoing support We look forward to seeing you at the first session from 1-3 pm on Sunday 12th April but in light of recent developments please make absolutely sure that you check the session is on before coming along due to Corona Virus. Thank you.

10 From Monday March 23rd

Take Away and home delivery available Daily 12-2pm & 5-7pm (closed Saturday)

A daily selection of shellfish

Soup, sandwiches, burgers, baked potatoes

Selection of cakes & puddings www.kishornseafoodbar.co.uk 01520 733240

11 Gallery Newsletter APRIL 2020 Spring is so close, despite the continuing rough weather and it is a time to share and explore nature’s creativity. This issue is full of information about sharing skills. We wanted to let you know in good time about two different workshops that are being run here at the Community Centre in May. Firstly Aileen Grant and Cindie Reiter, two local artists will run one on 6th May. The second will be run over the weekend of 16 & 17 May tutored by the feltmaker Sheila Bates. Both workshops promise to offer huge amounts of space and encouragement to explore techniques in painting and felting. May Workshop – Coastal Theme You may have come across work by Aileen Grant and Cindie Reiter; they both live in Lochcarron and are frequent exhibitors in the Gallery. This year they are trying a new venture – they have teamed up to run two drawing/painting workshops, one in Spring, the other in Autumn. The idea underpinning the workshops is to encourage people to develop their observational drawing skills, to let people use different materials, and to think about turning a sketch into a painting. And, above all, to give people an opportunity to do some sketching with like-minded people in that special place – Torridon. The Spring event will be on Wednesday 6th May. The workshop title is “ In A Coastal Place” and we will start off on or near the shores of Upper Loch Torridon, to do some observational drawing of shoreline features. We will encourage you to observe the changing tide, watch the wildlife, focusing on the immediate shore as well as the far views. What elements do you consider to be unique to Torridon, giving it its special character? Using various materials, you will be encouraged to use different marks to express your feelings about what you see and how you want to represent these elements. The aim is for us to gather sketches and drawings and also any pebbles and seashore finds you may want to bring indoors to make detailed drawings. In the afternoon Aileen and Cindie will encourage you to work on your sketches indoors, incorporating various compositional devices to create artwork that captures your unique experience of this place. Or...if the weather is good...you may choose to continue with outdoor sketching. Workshop fee is £60 and includes all art materials, light lunch and coffee. Numbers limited to 12. Booking in advance essential. For more details and to book online, please go to https://lochcarronarts.com. Or you may contact Aileen Grant on [email protected] or Cindie Reiter on [email protected] Please note that this event will take place on the opening day of the Summer Season Open Exhibition 'Coast'. More detail about the 2020 programme of workshops and other events planned by Aileen and Cindie can be found at https://lochcarronarts.com Sheila’s Workshop - ‘Designs on the Mountain’ is a celebration of blending ancient and more modern felting techniques. Over 2 days 10 – 4 pm

Designing work and creating a fine felt picture with stained glass characteristics. All materials supplied. £110. Booking essential For more details please contact Sheila www.florriefelts.co.uk [email protected] Just a quick reminder the closing date for submissions for Summer Season Exhibition ‘Coast’ is 6 April ! Submission forms are available via email or the website . Please see below. Thanks to everyone who has already done this ! This Spring we welcome new makers Jeff Gettings and Isobel Macallum Scott. And we look forward to showing new work from our artists throughout the year. Contact [email protected] 01445 791 361 www.lochtorridoncentre.co.uk Find us on Facebook too

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SWRCCS Coronavirus Pandemic Response

The Coronavirus pandemic has brought challenges to all of us including South West Ross Community Car Scheme (SWRCCS). The situation is constantly changing but we are trying to ensure we follow the latest guidance and to support efforts to limit the spread of the disease as well as support members of the community affected by it with the full backing of our funders.

What we are no longer doing SWRCCS will no longer be able to take passengers on journeys unless there are exceptional circumstances. Only the most essential journeys will be considered and these would normally be with the full backing of the local health professionals, including GPs, dentists or opticians. If you need such an essential journey then please phone Peter on 01445791335.

What we are doing SWRCCS is working with local people, volunteers, shops and cafes, local medical practices and others to provide some support to vulnerable groups and people who are self isolating and have no local friends, neighbours or family who are able to support them. There is a huge amount of support already out there and we certainly don’t want to undermine this fantastic community spirit or take its place, but we are there for anyone who can’t - for whatever reason - access that.

SWRCCS telephonists are to regularly contact previous clients and others who are isolated to check on them and to see if they have everything they need.

SWRCCS drivers will be delivering medicines, food and other necessaries to those who need it.

What we can do By phoning 01445791436 we can be asked to :-

Deliver food Deliver medicines Deliver DVDs (from Shieldaig Film Club) or other things to make life a little easier (shared resources so no payment needed) Make a regular phone call to you to make sure you are OK

Any users of these deliveries will need to phone either the local surgery or the shop/café and make all the arrangements and necessary payments for what they need. You can then phone SWRCCS on 01445791436 to arrange pick up and delivery. Medicines will tend to be delivered on a particular day for an area.

What you can do Get in touch and volunteer if you are able to take on deliveries in your area or if you want to volunteer as a telephonist making calls to people to keep in touch and to see if they need anything. Phone Peter on 01445791335 or email [email protected]

Keep up to date through visiting our website www-swrc-carscheme.com

13 PLASTIC

There are so many protest groups these The Perfect Gift days that I can't keep track of them, but I was interested to read that a famous Subscribe to An Carrannach, for fashion designer had transgressed by yourself, a relative or friend displaying fake fur garments i.e. PLASTIC.

Ensure that each publication is enjoyed as soon as Older readers will remember the furore published. when real fur garments were banned amidst Rates are for 11 issues post paid cries of 'cruelty to animals'. Nowadays it is plastic in its many forms that is creating U.K. £25.00 'cruelty to animals 'and entering the food chain with who knows what eventual Europe £54.00 outcome. Undoubtedly there was an Canada and USA £60.00 element of cruelty trapping and shooting wild animals, and in the many mink farms Australia £66.00 which grew in this country in the fifties and sixties. It is the escapees from these caged To setup a subscription please contact us at animals which are such a pest (or worse) [email protected] today.

Fur coats were very much a status symbol in my young days only worn on special occasions and usually smelling of mothballs! Those unable to afford such a luxury might have aspired to a fur collar on a tweed coat, fur backed mittens or even a fox fur boa. Another expensive luxury item was a crocodile skin handbag and shoes. Nowadays so much that we wear has an element of plastic. Of course, we can still buy linen, pure wool, silk and cotton garments, but these are the exceptions. Almost everything from our make up to our shoes contain plastic in one form or another....and that is only our clothing.

One thing about natural fibres is that they entail an awful lot of ironing, besides being much heavier than say a nylon blouse or shirt. A quick wash and a dry overnight aren’t really an option.

Plastic is everywhere in this modern world. Perhaps it is not our use of it but our careless disposal of it that is the problem. Certainly, our world would be very different without it.

Helen Murchison

14 SLUMBAY HOUSE - LOCHCARRON Holiday let in the heart of the west coast.

Slumbay House is a modern, architect-designed, four-bedroom house overlooking on the west coast of Scotland. The house offers self-catering accommodation for up to seven people. It is generally available for rent for full weeks only, Saturdays to Saturdays, but partial-week rentals can sometimes be arranged depending on the season and availability.

For more information, please visit our website or contact us.

Web: www.slumbayhouse.co.uk Email: [email protected] Phone: +44 (0)7480 064 793

15 LOCHCARRON Here we go as best I can find from businesses FB pages. Other businesses may be operating but I am LIBRARY NEWS only posting what I can find on FB. If in any doubt check out your respective business via FB or by phoning them directly, or click on the link below for the latest updates. This is accurate from 9am April heralds the beginning of Spring – better Saturday 21st March. weather, longer days and hopefully less rain. I usually say that this is the time to start thinking of summer, but with the Lochcarron Food Centre - SPAR Lochcarron - Open massive cloud that is COVID-19, it becomes difficult. and can offer deliveries if you phone 01520 722209 Obviously please read all the current information, and be (No minimum spend) advised that sanitising facilities are present at the entrance Lochcarron Garage - Open and doing deliveries of the Howard Doris Centre and library. Borrowers are also encouraged to scan their own library cards and books in an contact 01520 722205 attempt to eliminate handling. Do look in our windows and Lochcarron Bistro Takeaway and Delivery options displays for up to date information and bear in mind that available (Sean Boswell affordability menu available the situation could change rapidly or to use the current buzz 1800-2000 Tues to Saturday - Check page txt or call phrase the situation is fluid. HLH has set up a COVID-19 07878 147 484 / 01520722799 Group to consider all aspects the virus could have on its Strathcarron Hotel - Food and drink takeaway and operation. As I write this mid-March, all HLH Public local delivery 12-9 daily Menu and prices on their libraries and facilities are open and it is business as normal. FB page - 01520 722 227 However, by the time you read this article, the situation Lochcarron Medical Practice LIKE the page for may be very different. On to more pleasant things, after looking over our shelves a updates and details of Covid19. borrower will often request several books by the same Albatross café Menus on FB and at the door of golf author thus creating a mini-collection. One such mini- club Hand it out to friends and neighbours. Delivery collection is by John Buchan of The Thirty-Nine Steps fame and Takeaways. with titles such as John Burnet of Barnes and The Lost The Howard Doris Centre - Check restrictions and if Lady of Old Years to name but a few. There are also several you can offer support or have previous care PG Wodehouse titles here, both in large and normal print. experience they would like you to get in touch with Although written several generations ago, these books them. Details on their page. have largely stood the test of time, and may not be replaced in out of print – so my message is to enjoy them while you Lochcarron Hotel - Closed Check page can! Café Ceàrdach - with deli, crafts, gallery, visitor info In nonfiction, we appear to be having a run (not & learning Closed surprisingly), on more medical inclined books with The Bealach Cafe - Closed - Check page for info catching titles like This is going to hurt (Shelf mark Waterside Café - Closed at this time - Check page 610.92), all about the lives of junior doctors, as well as Also for info Human (Shelf mark 610.695), this time about the inner Applecross Inn -Closed - Check page for info lives of doctors. Applecross Walled Garden - Closed - Plans to do Our next Bookbug Session has been proposed as local deliveries next week. Check page. Wednesday 15th April at 9:30am. This fun session is open to all pre-schoolers but please check nearer the time The Junction Applecross - Closed - Check page for for the confirmed date. Gaelic Bookbug has been arranged info for the last Friday of the month in the Junior Section (24th Nanny's - Takeaway Only Last night tonight. April at 2pm) with Angela Goodman. (Saturday) Carron Restaurant - Closed - Check page for info The only other date I have at present is for Friday 17th Applecross Campsite - Closed - Check page for info April at 10:30 am when our Writing Group will tackle the Gille Brighde - Closed but currently looking at problem of Outbreak as their title! But never fear, I delivery options local to Diabaig. believe the group intends to write about an outbreak of a pimplier kind rather than anything more sinister. Do come Carron Pottery Closed to the public but If you want along to hear their efforts. ALL welcome! to purchase, go to their FB page for details on how Finally, if you do have time on your hands, settling down to contact them. with a good old book might not be a bad thing, and Balnacra Arts & Pottery by Vicky remember, we have several! If a physical book isn’t your Stonebridge Closed but available to purchase online. thing, why not go to the HLH website: www.highlifehighland.com/libraries and follow all There are many more other options out there, this is instructions to download books free to your Kindle, tablet just some of what I have found and if you're in any or other device. doubt phone who you are looking for as others may

Tuesday 9.30am - 12.30pm and 6-8pm be open and able to help and just not updating social Wednesday & Friday 2.00pm-4.30pm media. Telephone: 01520 722679 Check on neighbours and family who may be going Email: through a tough period, offer help and continue to be [email protected] excellent community superstars.

Craig Alen

16 SAMARITANS Whatever you’ve done. Whatever life’s done to you. Call Samaritans. No pressure. No judgement. We’re here for you any time. 0845 790 9090.

Do you have a drinking problem? Do you want help? Ring Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650

17 some of the decisions regarding the future of Shieldaig News the land. We look forward to seeing some of our suggestions coming into fruition. Ideas So, the baton has been handed on to me by include new paths, interpretation facilities Lucy Kerr, thank you Lucy for your contribu- and events. tions over the years! Keep your eye out for the new Shieldaig Let me introduce myself. I'm Helen Collins, booklet which will be out for sale soon, it's as previously Munday. I was brought up in good as it always is! Also, if anyone does have Shieldaig, and then left to explore the wider anything, they would like shared about world at 18 and now, 18 years later, I'm back Shieldaig, just send me an email with my husband and 2 wee kids in tow! [email protected].

I hope to give you a monthly offering of what is happening in Shieldaig. But forgive me if I Kishorn Notes miss the odd one, with kids and a house build, things can get a bit hectic and baby brain Even in our small community here in Kishorn we doesn't help! cannot ignore the Corvid 19 virus. It is hard to The village is getting ready for the tourist write these notes without mentioning it, as season ahead. But it is with a degree of undoubtedly it is foremost in all our minds. We uncertainty, so we hope with fingers crossed, have been bombarded on all fronts, screens and the effect of coronavirus won't be too long radio but I would like to reflect on some positive lasting. thoughts that come to mind.

Nanny's opened on Monday 16th March and How lucky we all are to be able to conduct our earlier in March, the new venture 'Nanny's at lives both inside and outside especially if we have Night'. Ross, previously a chef at The to self-isolate. We have beautiful spaces all around Torridon, is doing casual dining with an Italian twist. Making delicious homemade us to walk and enjoy, compared to many less pasta and pizza, which is also available as a fortunate who are restricted to city life and no takeaway. Shieldaig is really lucky with a space. We have an excellent community which in selection of places to eat and the Coastal difficult times we know will pull together, and the Kitchen and bar have been open all winter. best medical service we could wish for. For now, It’s great for locals to have somewhere to eat we just have to take responsibility for ourselves and drink all year round. and try not to put pressure on the health service

Shieldaig has a busy primary school and who are in the front line of this pandemic. nursery, growing in number by the day. It's The frogs have ignored the virus and laid masses part of the reason we moved back! We're all pleased to see work going on in the old school of spawn in our pond which we are delighted to house (which if all goes to schedule) should see, as we have had frequent visits from the heron. provide vital space for the nursery children later this year. Lucy is back at work in the Seafood bar and Sharon hopefully opens her door to the Bealach It's the start of the first full season for cafe on the 1st of this month. Both these Shieldaig Campsite and Cabins. Ruairidh and businesses will have a different start to their Hazel, another young family, have put a season but we wish them well and hope they both massive effort into getting the site ready, good weather the storm. We do not expect as many luck guys. There is an amazing choice of tourists at the moment and no one can tell yet how accommodation in Shieldaig, ranging from the hotel to camping, B & B to cabins and the summer months will progress. We must larger self-catering houses. remain positive and look forward to some sunshine, and warmer days. The other big deal of the winter months, has been the purchase of Ben Shieldaig by The We were all very saddened by Peter Munro's Woodland Trust, a charity I'm sure a lot of untimely death and we send our condolences to his people have heard of before. We are very family. lucky as a community, to have had input, into

18 19 Lochcarron Sailing MUNLOCHY ANIMAL AID Club News

At the time of writing, the Thank you to everyone who sailing club is going ahead supported the Coffee with all its planned activities, Morning in aid of MAA. but these will be reviewed if advice changes. Also, many thanks to all of the helpers (Chrissie, Sharon, Wednesday night sailing starts on the 15th April. On Wednesdays the club house is open from Rita, Mavis, Sue) Pnut and 4.30pm and we aim to get on the water around the Golf Club. 5.45pm. The total. raised was Hopefully, Sunday sailing will be under way when £570.00. this is printed. Sailing times vary on a Sunday because of the tides, and times can be found on the Pam Bright programme on www.lochcarronsailing.com. Anyone who can sail a triangle course is welcome to sail: join the race or just sail for fun. We are looking forward WANTED to some nice spring weather to start the season.

If you would like to try sailing, we are having a Articles for your local “Discover Sailing” evening on the 3rd June. Anyone school age and up is welcome: visit the paper. club, find out about what we do, get out in a boat Anything considered. Please and enjoy tea, coffee and hot chocolate and cake. If you can’t make the 3rd June but would like to have email Michelle at a go, please get in touch with Angela 722 989 or Steve 722 870 to arrange a time. news- Training week 2020 6th - 10th July: Come and [email protected] learn to sail or improve your skills. We are running RYA courses of all levels from beginner to expert for both juniors (9.5 years up) and adults (evenings). "Thank you, friends of all The courses run Monday - Thursday, and on Friday denominations or none, for everyone is invited on a sailaway to Attadale, and coming together on the first picnic and games. Friday of March to share the World Day of Prayer Diary dates: Zimbabwean service in the Howard Doris Centre and 15th April: Wednesday sailing starts Lochcarron church of Scotland. We were challenged to "Rise, 3rd June: Discover Sailing take up our mat and walk".

Loneliness, poverty and inequalities within our 6th - 10th July: Training week society, climate change, and homelessness were identified by us at the evening service as issues we need to do something about, even though we can feel overwhelmed by knowing where to start.

Thank you to those of you who gave generously to WDP projects in Zimbabwe which are helping women not to feel stigmatised by having a disabled child, and women who are frequently the victims of domestic violence. We raised £170".

See you next year when we go to Vanuatu.

Many thanks Claire (Munday)

20 21 UPDATE REGARDING THE BUILDING DEVELOPMENT OF LOCHCARRON NURSERY AND PRIMARY SCHOOL – MARCH, 2020

We are very pleased to announce that things are starting to move forward with the phased building work to improve both the current classroom provision at Lochcarron Primary and the nursery move to the school site. Contractors have been visiting to conduct extensive site/ground surveys in preparation.

Two almost new modular buildings have now been earmarked by the Highland Council to replace the existing buildings. These will provide us with a total of 4 modern, spacious high quality larger classrooms, along with much needed separate toilet cubicles, sink space and storage etc.

It is important to note that from the Easter Holidays onwards work will begin to remove the old classrooms, prepare the ground and then move in the new modular buildings in a staged process. Indeed, this should commence in the first week of the holidays.

As Head Teacher, I am really excited about the opportunity we have at long last to build on the brilliant foundations that both our school and nursery have to provide learning and teaching facilities which match the children’s ambitions, expectations and potential to learn.

Finally, for your information, I have also included, below, plans which help to illustrate the proposed layout of our two new buildings. Exciting stuff!!!

CLASSROOM

22 Please do feel free to contact me either by E-Mail at [email protected] or phone me at the school on (01520) 722445 if you do have any further questions, ideas or suggestions. Your support, interest and involvement is always very much appreciated. Yours, Robert Gill, Head Teacher, Lochcarron Primary School and Nursery

Here at Handsonevents we have tried really hard to NOTICE remain optimistic about our events, but in the light of the fast moving Coronavirus pandemic we have made the very difficult decision to cancel this year's Bealach Beag. William Reginald Khory Davinson and Gillian Elizabeth Davinson have While we would love to bring this event to an area that is registered their Croft Lochcarron going to have a tough year as tourism numbers crash, we must prioritise the health and well being of the local Village, Lochcarron Village, community, the cyclists and their families, as well as the Lochcarron, on the Crofting Register volunteers needed on the day. held by the Registers of Scotland. As many of you will know this was meant to be the last Bealach Beag but we don't want it all to end like this, so if we can secure the support of the respective Community Any person who wishes to challenge the Councils, we will be back for one last fling on the 8th registration may apply to the Scottish May 2021 Land Court by 11th December 2020.

Details of the registration can be found at www.crofts.ros.gov.uk/register/ home. The Croft Registration Number is C6909.

23 Community Councils’ Minutes Comhairle Choimhearsnachd Gearr-chunntais

LOCHCARRON COMMUNITY COUNCIL and although Bell Ingram had not fully complied with Draft Minutes of MEETING MONDAY 9 MARCH 2020 LCDC requirements, the parties were close to an agreement. Andrew expressed concern that the Present: Helen Murchison (Chair), Aileen Grant, Roger Cun- Directors of LCDC have too much power as they can diff (Sec), Alec Cormack (Treas), Colin Murdoch make decisions about disposal of assets without Also present: Councillor Alex MacInnes, Kenny MacKenzie, consulting their members. He urged members of the Andrew MacKenzie, Quentin Banting, Torty Cocks, public to join LCDC and seek to improve the Alasdair Macaulay, Innes Weir, Siobhan Murray, John accountability of the organisation. McCrae and Nick Brown.

• Apologies for absence – John MacPherson, Matt • Lochcarron Estate Community Asset Transfer (possible) Wickham, Craig Allan (police rep) – Cmdr Q. Banting had requested this item. The Chair gave a resume of the current situation as she understands it. The land in question extends from Croft • Minutes of Meeting of 10th February - approved Road in the east to Ardaneaskan in the west and is unanimously. largely croft land (several crofting townships). Lochcarron Estates has offered to gift this land to • Funding Application for replacement Community Howard Doris Centre, and a group of HDC Board Noticeboard by Kishorn Community Trust – Torty Members, interested individuals and crofters came Cocks presented this item. The Trust sought advice and together for an initial discussion. They have raised a a quote from John Murphy who has built several few questions with Mark Pattinson. No reply has yet community noticeboards in the area. It is proposed that been received and no formal written offer has yet been this new robust noticeboard be sited at as a made by Lochcarron Estates. Q expressed the view that replacement for the two existing boards (at Achintraid this land transfer would result in a material change to and outside 'Patterns of Light'). The Trust are applying the crofting communities (access implications) and that for £860. The Community Council – in their later therefore this matter is only of interest to crofters. He private session – unanimously agreed to grant this urged the Community Council to take an interest. application, subject to the usual reporting requirements. Attention was drawn to the An Carrannach article and it The Chair did not take part in decision-making as she was noted that this is very early days. had declared an interest. • Extra Item – Innes Weir was invited to introduce • Matters Arising from Minutes himself. Innes is the Regional Manager of Scottish Sea • Salt Bins – The Secretary wrote to Tracy Urry, HC on Farms. He has a background of living in a remote 15th Feb, and has been given a complaint reference community and is keen to encourage families to settle in number, but no reply as yet. the area. He reminded us about the 'Heart of the • Noticeboards Kishorn/Achintraid – Addressed in Item 3. Community Fund' and invited applications. The EV Charging points – The Secretary had passed on Treasurer thanked Innes/SSF for the recent donation information from the last meeting and has been advised (previous meeting) and invited SSF to write an article that the charging points will be located opposite the for the next An Carrannach. Spar (disabled parking spaces to be relocated). No installation date given. They are unable to put a charger • Planning Applications Land west of Kinloch – 40 bed at the hotel as the land is not publicly-owned – it is open hotel, restaurant and bar – 20/00438/SCRE – this to the hotel owner to make an arrangement with a application has now been withdrawn. (Discussed under private provider. Item 5). Network Rail – land 40m NW of Rosedyke, • Craig signs and speeding – Councillor MacInnes Achintee - temporary permission sought for workers' confirmed that the replacement sign is included on the accommodation for the duration of bridge repair works. Works List. Speed survey will need to join a long No objection raised. queue. • Highland Council Who’s Who leaflet – list was • Traffic Management Group – the Group had met with circulated to members by email. Associate Members – Councillor MacInnes. The traffic speed survey will be Aileen Grant suggested that the local Community Trusts conducted around Easter, and the Group will meet again (i.e. LCDC and KCT) should be invited to become once the results are known. Bypass – Associate Members as a way of improving public event to present the two options will be in communication and sharing information, but there was Lochcarron Village Hall on 20th March 2020 4-7pm. no support for this. National Planning Framework 4 – Aileen reported that a new National Planning Framework (NPF4) is about to • Chair’s Report - in response to concerns raised about be prepared and that Scottish Government are 'calling LCDC at the previous meeting, Helen had taken matters for ideas'. They are seeking various outcomes from up with Colin Sharp, Chair of LCDC. She reported that NPF4 including meeting housing needs and increasing Colin advised that Bell Ingram had apparently acted population in rural areas – hence the relevance. At this precipitately in submitting their request to Planning as stage 5 questions are raised, one of which asks about the no formal agreement had been reached between the infrastructure necessary to realise long term aspirations. parties. Andrew Mackenzie asked to be heard at this It is worth individuals taking the time to respond to this point. He and Neil Ross had also met Colin Sharp and 'call' – lots of information and a response form on the had been told that the parties had had three meetings website transformingplanning.scot

24 and that the event involved only a very small • Secretary’s Report amount of family cars. Torgarve: JG had written • Correspondence – various conferences in London and to the Applecross Trust regarding Bob and Lylla Edinburgh plus a Highland Senior Citizens' networking event in Inverness on 22nd April. Also a letter about Clyde’s lease. insurance – passed to the Treasurer. Assynt Community Treasurer’s ReportOpening balance: £4485.28 Trust asked for assistance with their Deer Problem – Closing balance: £3485.28 Secretary passed this request to Kenny MacKenzie who has responded. Letter about establishing a 'Gaelic Medi- Police Report None. PC Craig Allan was unable to um Catchment Area' – NB there will be a public meet- attend. ing at Lochcarron Primary School on 14th April at 6pm. Correspondence • Bank Signatories – almost completed Applecross Community Company: an update on • Ward 5 Joint Community Council Meeting – this will be their activities. Detail available at http:// on 20th May in Garve. www.applecrosscommunitycompany.org, on • Treasurer’s Report - Community Council Account: noticeboards and on social media. opening balance - £1664.21 /closing balance - £1914.21 Parking survey: Pre-Engagement on Off-Street (donation received from SSF/expenditure nil) Lochcar- Car Parking proposals had been circulated by ron Community Fund: opening balance - £13,154.78/ closing balance - £12,154.78 (award made to the Youth the Highland Council to consider the Maritime Trust). introduction of charging in off-street car parks. ACTION: JB to complete the survey on behalf of • Police Feedback – no report the community council. Stromeferry Bypass: Community council members and public were • Any Other Competent Business – (i) Potholes: Colin Murdoch asked if we could petition the Highland Coun- invited by the Highland Council to attend cil for a 'Hotbox' to enable potholes in our area to be drop-in sessions on 19 March (Achmore Village filled with hot tarmac. The current practice of cold tar- Hall, 4pm to 7pm) and 20 March (Lochcarron mac filling is money badly spent. Cllr MacInnes ad- Village Hall, 4pm to 7pm). Joint CC Meeting: vised that a new Area Roads Manager is about to be appointed and he expects more resources to be given to Council members were invited to attend a our area. He advised waiting until the budget is known meeting on Wednesday 20 May 2020 from 7pm and then take this further. in Garve Village Hall ACTION: JG to attend. Consultee Access for Planning Consultations: • Date of Next Meeting – Monday 13th April at 7.30 in the Upper Village Hall. the council was advised of a new method of responding to planning consultations. Correspondence to Rebuilt road by : Archie [email protected] MacLellan had contacted JG suggesting that a gravel area be left on the sea side of the new Applecross Community Council Meeting section of road; the council were in agreement Held at the Community Hall, Applecross with this. MINUTES (Unapproved) – Tuesday 10 March Applecross Community Company update 2020, 7.30pm Social housing proposals: Roslyn Clarke Present:, Julie Baird, Ruaridh Cameron, Ishbel reported that a feasibility study was being carried Ferguson, Ewen Gillies, Jon Glover, Sarah Paramor out on three sites: at the front of the Hydro Roslyn Clarke, representing Applecross Community field; at Clachan; at Smiddy Wood. The Com- Company. munity Company was asking for feedback from Apologies: Ali Brown, Jacqueline Liuba, Mark the community. Information is available on their Stewart website: http:// Future Meeting Date: Tuesday 14 April 2020, www.applecrosscommunitycompany.org Roslyn 7.30pm reported that a vote would be held at the Minutes of the Previous Meeting Adopted; Company AGM on 21 April 2020. Deadline for proposed by RC; seconded by JG. the funding application from the Scottish Land Actions from the Previous Meeting Fund: 12 June 2020. ACTION: All council mem- Safeguarding Scotland’s Remote Rural bers to study the links available on the website Communities: JG had completed the survey on in preparation for discussion April council behalf of the Community Council. meeting. Surgery housing: Roslyn reported that Charity event: SP had contacted Highland this was due to go to planning in May; three 2- Hospice to request further information about bed houses were proposed, one with wheelchair their North Coast 500 event scheduled for May access. 22–24 (Bank Holiday weekend).Fiona Stoddart responded that there is a cap on the numbers (Continued on page 26)

25 (Continued from page 25) years. Any Other Business BT Broadband: A resident had asked about R100 superfast broadband • Adoption of the Constitution and Standing Orders It was agreed to adopt the Constitution and Standing Orders reaching Applecross. The council concluded that as set out at Appendices 3 and 4 of the Scheme of it was unclear when R100 would come via BT; Establishment. This is available online and Robbie also meanwhile, it was confirmed that Applenet was distributed paper copies. The Scheme encompasses a suite of documents which getting upgraded. include Boundary Maps, Membership numbers, Bealach sign: It was noted that the sign had still not Constitution, Standing Orders and the Code of Conduct for been replaced by the Highland Council, and that Community Councillors. having an unreadable sign posed a danger to These documents are designed to support the operation of Community Councils across the Highland Region. motorists who might take the mountain road without having any idea of the dangers. ACTION: • Associate Membership SP to write to Iain Moncrieff, Road Operations Community Councils are able to grant Associate Manager to express the council’s concerns. Membership to key groups within the area such as parent councils etc. Helipad: JG reported that Chris Ward and the Healthcare Association had taken this project • Future Meeting Dates forward; it had been agreed that the community It was agreed to hold meetings every two months starting on council would now coordinate planning issues. 3 April 2020, then on dates to be agreed in June (+ AGM), August, October and December 2020 and February 2021. ACTION : JG to oversee. Community Fund: The question was raised whether it was within the • Report from Local Fire Service Crew statutory powers of the council to hold the £170,000 community pot from the Applecross Emily and Seamus gave an informative update on the Estate if required by the community. It was Torridon Fire Service. It has been an average year with 18 call outs ranging from house fires to RTCs and a cow stuck noted that two accounts would be required. in a bog. This is the first year working with the new fire ACTION: Alex MacInnes to discuss with Robbie appliance and local fire fighters meet for training nights Bain. from 7pm on Mondays and Thursdays. So far it has been a quiet winter with no call outs since October 2019. Meeting Closed: 8.57 pm Next meeting: Tuesday 14th April 2020, 7.30 pm The crew are available to do fire safety visits to reduce the Members of the public are warmly encouraged risk of fire in local homes. to attend these meetings. If you would like to Spring is traditionally Wildfire Season and it was noted that add any items to the agenda, please email them Biosphere and Highland by the Friday before the meeting to: Environmental Forum are co-hosting a Wildfire Awareness [email protected] Week at the beginning of March culminating in a meeting to be held in Kinlochewe on 6th March. Emily and Seamus were thanked for their presentation and the great job local crews do. Draft Minutes of Torridon and Kinlochewe Community • Issues arising Previous Minutes Council Meeting held in Torridon Hall on Wednesday 12th February 2020 from 7pm - 9 pm At the last meeting in October 2019, it had been agreed that items from the September minutes be carried forward to the Present: Ward Manager Robbie Bain, Anne Macrae, Colin new Community Council: Stevenson, Margaret Smith, Caroline Hamilton, Tom Roads Forrest, 3 Members of the Public – Jo Harris, Emily John Speed calming measures are still to be put in place at and Seamus MacNally, Scottish Fire Service Apologies: Kinlochewe and it was noted that this issue had spanned the Carol MacIver, Cllr. Alex MacInnes entire four-year service of previous Community Councillors. It was good to get the electronic sign back in the village and • Appointment of Office Bearers happily it is still working correctly. The state of the The meeting was opened and chaired by Ward Manager, crumbling road along Torridon Glen remains an issue with Robbie Bain who explained that outgoing office bearers particularly bad surface along by Coulin and Loch Claire. were still in charge of any assets until new office bearers Potholes continue to appear after rain with the patch by West were elected and took on the responsibility. Lodge a recurring problem. It was agreed that Caroline Hamilton take on the position of Chairperson and that Anne Macrae continue as Secretary. Memorial Bench – Kinlochewe There is also the possibility of appointing a Minutes Secre- The bench is now in position by the Kinlochewe War tary if required. The Treasurer post was not filled but we do Memorial, paid for by Torridon and Kinlochewe Community have places for two more co-opted Community Councillors Council. and two 16 – 18 Youth Councillors who will have full voting Mast - Kinlochewe rights. We were pleased to hear that Emma MacDonald, We have no more news on the planning application for a Kinlochewe has already expressed interest through Gairloch 12m electronic smart mast to be placed to the rear of High School and we would be pleased to hear from anyone Kinlochewe Hall. else interested in becoming a Community Councillor. • Future of Torridon School Our thanks to outgoing Community Councillors Terry Doe, Lack of maintenance by Highland Council remains an Andrew Peacock and Jonathon Petrie for their work in recent (Continued on page 27)

26 (Continued from page 26) Challenging Times ongoing problem. Robbie Bain said the school remains mothballed and said he would pass on our concerns about This space should have been filled by an advert for a few the state of the building. arty events that my friend Cindie Reiter and I were • Torridon Play Park planning, but the Covid-19 shutters have come down and There was considerable discussion about the need to repair put an end to such events for the foreseeable future. Within and maintain the Play Park facilities. Gates need to be the space of a few days the world has changed for all of us. replaced and fencing and wooden cabins are also in a bad It feels as if things will never be quite the same again. state. Robbie Bain confirmed that the Highland Council is We all hope we'll get through this crisis one way or another. responsible for the health and safety of the Park. He said the But being a bit of a Cassandra, I fear that many hardships Council has no funds available to maintain the Park, will result, particularly within our local economy that therefore if any equipment is found to be unsafe during depends so much on tourism and passing trade. safety inspections, it usually has to remove it. It was agreed the Park is a valuable community asset, used There has been a lot of talk about how modern-day tourism by local and visiting families. The Community Council has has outgrown its capacity, especially in terms of visitor tried very hard over the years to get the Highland Council to numbers. For instance, the controversy over visitor take more action, unfortunately with no success. numbers on Skye and the traffic on North Coast 500. We're It was agreed to try and interest local residents into taking starting to experience the same problems experienced by over responsibility for the Park, including through places we visit abroad which are overwhelmed with visitors. fundraising such as through donation boxes – Caroline to write to a potentially interested party. Isn't it funny how times have changed almost overnight? Also, the Community Council will request a donation from Now all our tourist spots are deserted and everyone is the Ward 5 Discretionary fund. – Anne and Maggie to staying indoors. action. • Mess at Glen Docherty Viewpoint Stuck at home, no cultural life – how awful! But this is not The problem of rubbish spilling from bins remains a the 1920s. There is one big difference - the internet. We problem – Anne to investigate possible metal double bin can stay connected to the outside world and even visit covers as seen around Ullapool. tourist attractions online! Many museums and art galleries Tom suggested having no bins at all might ease the problem. offer virtual 'walk-throughs' of their collections. You can Robbie also highlighted the problem of rubbish being left in watch live operas, plays and concerts. There are thousands laybys on the A832 Achnasheen to Garve road. of podcasts and films via Netflix and iPlayer and so on. • Wester Ross Biosphere The National Youth Strategy was responded to and funding Getting back to art, some artists have started offering has been granted to allow some young representatives (13- on-line workshops using various technologies to allow 18yrs old) to participate in a Climate Change project in everyone to participate and be actively connected - all at the Dublin click of a key. A two-day conference is being hosted by the Biosphere with Visit Wester Ross in Gairloch Hotel on Monday So if you depend on tourism for a living, don't despair. The 9th & Tuesday 10th March. Among speakers will be Senior challenge is to turn the current crisis into an opportunity. Youth Reps Gemma Urquhart and Heather Fulton. Future Agendas and Minutes It was noted that as per the Community Council’s Scheme of Establishment, one of our primary purposes is “to ascertain, co-ordinate and express to the local authorities for its area, and to public authorities, the views of the community which Lochcarron Afternoon Tea Set it represents”. It was therefore agreed that notices should be put on noticeboards throughout the area inviting residents to contact the Community Counci if there was anything we could help with. Responses could also inform future agendas for Afternoon Teas are meetings – Caroline to action. A.O.B. cancelled Maggie raised concern over new rules which may prevent John Napier from being able to collect and dispose of local until further notice scrap material. It was noted this is a most useful service and we would not want to see it end. Watch this space for Celtman have asked if the Borrow Pits along Glen Torridon could be opened up for parking to help avoid congestion at news when we can transition during the race. There are plans to also use Corrie resume serving delicious Dubh Car Park and run a shuttle minibus to help too. cakes and savouries Tom said he is on the Local Access Forum. He also highlighted that the Cape Wrath Ultra will be making use of the hall and neighbouring field in Kinlochewe in May as In the meantime, we participants make their way North from Fort William. send good wishes to Tom expressed continued concern over insurance and health all our customers and safety issues related to the running of the Bealach Mor Cycle Races following an incident he was involved in which is still ongoing. Keep safe and well • Date of next meeting Friday 3rd April at 7pm in Kinlochewe Hall.

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A. L. J Plumbing and Roofing

Primrose Cottage Main Street Lochcarron

Pitched Roofs Bathroom Suites Lead flashing Soil Pipes Fascia soffit Drains Guttering Sinks Windows fitted Cold and hot water tanks Flat roofing And all plumbing work carried out And all general repair work carried out

Telephone: 01520 722 886 Mobile: 07952 869 962

A & J BROWN LICENSED GROCER & POST OFFICE CAMUSTEIL, APPLECROSS (Branch Right at Fire Station) TEL Shop: 01520 744421 TEL P.O.: 01520 744491 NEW HOURS AS FROM 28TH OCTOBER AGENTS FOR CALOR GAS AND CAMPING GAZ

SHOP HOURS POST OFFICE HOURS

MONDAY: 9AM – 1PM MONDAY: 9AM – 11.45 AM TUESDAY: CLOSED TUESDAY: CLOSED WEDNESDAY: 9AM – 1PM WEDNESDAY: 9AM - 11.45 AM THURSDAY: 9AM – 1PM THURSDAY: 9AM - 11.45 AM FRIDAY: 9AM – 1PM FRIDAY: 9AM - 11.45 AM SATURDAY: CLOSED SATURDAY: CLOSED

SUNDAY CLOSED SUNDAY CLOSED

34 35 The notice is to advertise the holding of an Achintraid Grazings meeting, with the purpose of appointing a Grazings M & D MACLEOD Committee. FUNERAL DIRECTORS Station Road The advertisement must state that it is a 'Meeting of the Achintraid Common Ross - shire Grazings' to be held on Friday, 17th IV40 8AE April, 7:00pm, at 10 Achintraid. The Over 40 years local service purpose of the meeting is to appoint a 24 hour availability Grazings Committee. Home visits

All are welcome, but only crofters with a Prices from £1695 share in the Achintraid Common Grazings are eligible to vote. Funeral plans Memorial stones Further information on meeting can be obtained from Murray Stark (Grazings Tel. No. 01599 230355 Clerk) 733489 Email: m&dmacleod.funeralservice @dignityuk.co.uk

K and A CAMERON GENERAL CONTRACTORS AND HAULAGE and CAMERON CARRIERS Achintee STRATHCARRON IV54 8YE

We operate a DAILY collection and delivery service from Inverness to local areas including:

• APPLECROSS • ACHNASHEEN • KINLOCHEWE • TORRIDON • ALLIGIN • SHIELDAIG • KISHORN • LOCHCARRON • STRATHCARRON • STROMEFERRY • ACHMORE • DORNIE • KYLE • PLOCKTON

WE ALSO OPERATE A LIGHT REMOVALS SERVICE - ENQUIRIES WELCOME.

For all enquiries please Telephone/Fax 01520 722450 Mobile 07876233717

36 37 Thank You

Hamish Wilson and Gordon Mcfalan from Bonhams kindly spent a day at Attadale in early March before the social rules changed.

Thank you so much to all those who kindly brought along so many interesting things, from as far afield as Broadford in Skye. Thank you also for your generosity as over £500 was raised for the Highland Hospice. Many people had fascinating stories about the provenance of their treasures and everyone appreciated being told more about them, even if they did not prove to be as precious as they might have hoped. Some people even came back for a second go.

We had a busy morning and visitors enjoyed a cup of tea or coffee with delicious biscuits made by Linda Hojlund of Book Catering. We hope Bonhams may be back in future.

KISHORN PLAYGROUND UPDATE Amazingly some may say, Kishorn Community Trust have raised ALL of the money within just over a year, to build the new playground on the same site that was dedicated to the old playground in Achintraid, which was previously run by the Highland Are you stressed out at the thought of Council. The Trust will take on the management and responsibility from now on until further notice. Enormous thanks are due to a lot of people without which it would not have been possible to proceed with the project. Since the last update, we would like to extend our gratitude to the MOVING following: The Rigby Family New Year Swim - Kishorn HOME? Highland Council The Stark Family St. Andrews Night - Kishorn Meeting House It is reckoned to be one Swinton Patterson Trust Stafford Trust of life’s McDonald Construction Nigel and Hilary Macleod most stressful events. Lochcarron Community Council Lochcarron Highland Games Would you like to have a Lochcarron Store stress free move? Robertson Trust The Gordon and Ena Baxter Trust Then call us NOW The Foyle Foundation National Lottery And finally Ian Smith and Kurt Larson for making the dream become a reality by filling in a lot of forms and writing a lot of letters! A SCOTTISH REMOVAL considerable amount of background work has taken place. Thanks to Helen Murchison, Lynda Beveridge and Torty Cocks too. SERVICES An enormous thank you to all who have contributed to the Community Events (Mish Mash Market, St. Andrews Night, Dell New Year swim etc) and for the individual donations. This has been a true community effort PHONE : 01471 822777 and it shows what is achievable in a short time. The groundworks contract was put out to tender this time last year to eight different parties and was won by John Parker who started clearing the site and putting in appropriate drainage etc towards the end of March and the or visit our Web site Kishorn Community Clear Up Day took place on Saturday 21 March. www.scottish-removals.co.uk Thank you once again to everyone who turned up and there will be further news to follow imminently regarding the date of installation of equipment etc! or e-mail us Finally if you have any ideas or suggestions or would like to make a donation, please send an email to [email protected]. [email protected]. We also have an active Facebook page (Kishorn Community Trust).

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