THE ROTHESIAN

June 2018 Sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery Issue No 82

This issue sponsored by Glen Grant

A drive along Speyside has you enjoying the majestic scenery of the snow-capped hills and mountains, while following the fast flowing waters of whisky’s most famous river and passing through the towns and villages which still depend on the production of Scotland’s national drink. One such village is Rothes, boasting four malt distilleries and Forsyth’s Copper works, manufacturing a vast portion of the copper stills used in the whisky industry. Set on the roundabout on the north end of the village, almost secretly located off the beaten track, is Glen Grant Distillery with its Victorian Garden and Coffee Shop.

The distillery was founded in 1840 by the Grant brothers James and John and was the only distillery to be named after its founders as historically most were named after the nearby rivers which sup- plied their water. In the late 1800s the distillery was bequeathed to young James Grant, better known as Major Grant. Along with his passion for whisky mak- ing he had a love for travelling. He would regularly head off to different parts of Africa, exploring the country and learning about their culture. Back at the distillery, during this time, the Major was the first person in the area to purchase a motor car and was generating electricity from the river water at the distillery to provide street lights in the village. During the recent upgrade of the visitor centre the coffee shop was also given a facelift, mak- ing it the ideal place to visit after a stroll in the garden or if you just happen to be looking for a new venue to visit for a coffee or bowl of soup and a sandwich. Displayed for sale in the coffee shop is the work of Duffus artist Bee Struthers. Bee, who regularly hosts exhibitions of her work around the country, has produced a selection of mixed media original pictures exclusively to sell in the coffee shop. For visitors with children, there is an animal hunt in the garden to keep them occupied. When they have found all of the animals hid- den in the trail a goody bag awaits them back in the visitors centre.

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] As well as returning from his trips with fascinating ROTHES BALL GROUP. stories of the African way of life, the Major had anoth- er cargo. These were plants and fruits. With a huge The group have had a good attendance this last wee interest in gardening and never forgetting his desire to while and have enjoyed a varied programme again. be self-sustaining, the Major developed a 20 acre gar- We have crafted with Thelma and had our own craft den in the grounds of his distillery where his team of and chat sessions where we bring our own work in gardeners grew all the indigenous vegetables you progress and chat which we are good at, and also made would have expected to find in this era, along with the bead pulls for zips. We had visits from the Moray exotic fruits and plants brought back from Africa. His School Bank to explain their role and Hazel Lawson desire to grow these exotic plants lead to the building brought some lovely fashion items for us to choose of massive greenhouses next to his mansion house and from. We started off after Easter with a noisy Hoy neighbouring the distillery. Although these buildings Bingo session and in early June racked our brains with are no longer, you can still appreciate the sheer size of a Pointless session with Ann Hay who filled in so the house as the footprint is today visitors’ carpark quickly when our original speaker found a double which looks down on the still. In his greenhouses the booking. Edna visited us with World War 2 box which Major grew melons, peaches and other exotic fruits of fair got chat going and the prospect of a visit to Elgin the time while in the garden he grew a vast array of Museum in the autumn very much a possibility!. We plants, from the traditional rhododendrons and conifer have by no means been confined to the Hall as we trees to the native flowers of Africa along with a vast made for Glen Grant Gardens on a glorious day and collection of fruit trees, some of which are still stand- we finish with our outing to Mintlaw after another ing today. painting session at home. Our trip is 26th June and we The garden was left to grow wild for many years as resume on 4th September. the distillery ownership changed hands with the em- phasis on whisky production more than heritage. In 1996 under the ownership of Seagram the gardens WALK ROTHES GROUP were restored to their former glory. Reducing the gar- dens to 5 acres, the project saw a team of architects Now the weather has improved somewhat – well very and horticulturists resurrect the gardens, sourcing the much improved, the group has got more adventurous original plants which the Major had returned with al- with outings to Aberlour and the Dophin Centre at most a century earlier. As well as the reconstruction Spey Bay. Unfortunately Spey Bay was shrouded in of the gardens there was the refurbishment of the haar, so if the dolphins were there we could not spot gorge path which creates a circular walk around the them. Aberlour was brilliant sun. We have checked top of the garden. out the Glen Grant Gardens and the progress of the rhoddies and the sequence of blooms. We have been delighted to welcome walkers from Aberlour to Rothes walks, who found bits they never knew exist- ed, thanks to our walks. A few of the more ambitious walkers have made round by a bit of the Spey on an- other sparkling two days. We are hoping to make the Biblical Gardens before we have a break until August. 16th. However we hope to have more trained leaders by then as some are joining the one day course shortly. All good luck to them.

SPEYSIDE STRENGTH AND BALANCE GROUP

This continues to be well supported on Friday morn- Today, under the ownership of Italian drinks giant ing . All exercises can be done seated so it can be for Campari, the grounds are cared for by a team of spe- everyone and we always have laughter as part of the cialists and are very much applauded by all who visit nd class! Our last class is 22 June as school duties call, them. and we resume on Friday 17th August.

2 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery WELCOME TO ROTHES - ABOUT OUR ROTHES BABIES & TODDLERS TOWN We have had another great term at Rothes Babies & This year the Visitor Centre has been busier than ever Toddlers. Our sessions continue to be well attended and it has become clear to us that we have really poor and enjoyed, and we are welcoming new faces all the information on our town. We have been approached time. about businesses, accommodation, transport, local This term we have enjoyed being creative and taking groups, sport, education and many more issues. We part in new experiences. Some of our crafts have in- have had queries from visitors, shoppers, people pass- cluded painting sheep using tattie mashers, printing ing through, people thinking of coming to stay in the with fruit and vegetables and using our toes to make town and some who now stay here and need infor- caterpillars. The children also planted sunflower mation. seeds, enjoyed a frog themed week and have had lots We have decided to do a 'WELCOME TO ROTHES' of fun in the sand tray. brochure so that we can prove just how much we have Since our last update, we had our Coffee Morning at to offer and how much goes on in our town. For this the beginning of May which was a huge success, rais- we need your help so we hope that if you have a busi- ing £600 for our Group. We were overwhelmed with ness, an organisation or group you will fill in the en- the generosity and kindness of Rothes folk and local closed form and pop it into the boxes available. Many businesses. We must say a special thank you to Mary will, perhaps find it easier to fill it in on line by visit- Henderson for making all the delicious pancakes for ing Rothes Visitor Centre, (see insert for details). the day and to everyone who came along, helped and There will be no cost for this as we are getting help supported it in some way. from the windfarm fund. As a result of our coffee morning success, funding received from the Rothes Wind Farm Fund and a gen- erous donation from Forsyths, we have been able to buy some fantastic toys and resources for the group. ROTHES TO CRAIGELLACHIE - These include a wooden shop frame and till, dressing THE SPUR TO THE SPEYSIDE WAY. up clothes and display rail, a new sand and water ta- ble, puppets and sensory items for our song time. Our The new steering group formed to formalise plans to biggest expense has been investing in children’s height provide a link for Rothes to the Speyside Way has had folding tables and stacking chairs. We are thrilled that a number of monthly meetings since February and we have been able to buy these as it will make such a good progress is being made. Funding sources have difference to our group. been looked at and the possible routes to be checked Our last session before we have a break for the sum- out in a feasibility study have been identified. mer will be held on Tuesday 26 June and we will re- We are going to need assistance from the communities open again on Tuesday 14 August. If you fancy com- in maintaining this path and the other existing paths ing along, you will be made very welcome so don’t be round Rothes. This primarily involves identifying and shy! reporting defects in the paths such as flooding, fallen We hope you all have a lovely summer. branches etc. Problems can be reported at the Cottage Kaz, Yori, Mandy & Kay or e-mailed to [email protected]. Anyone in- terested in helping with the maintenance can contact by the same method. ROTHES LADIES GROUP NAME THAT PATH - ALSO ON THIS EDI- TION'S INSERT IS AN OPORTUNITY TO WIN Rothes Ladies Group was very well supported over the A PRIZE BY NAMING THE OLD RAILWAY TO last session when we had a good selection of speakers DANDALEITH WALK. PLEASE CHECK THIS and entertainers. We are looking forward to our annu- OUT AS THERE ARE PRIZES AVAILABLE. al outing to Kellockbank, Insch on 23rd June. A big THIS CAN BE DONE BY BOTH CHILDREN thank you to all our members. Have a good summer AND ADULTS. PLEASE PUT YOUR REPLIES break. We will have our opening meeting of 2018/19 IN THE ROTHESIAN BOXES AS ADVISED, on Tuesday 18th September CLEARLY MARKED ROTHES SPUR.

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 3 LINNBURN A VERY MORAY COMMUNITY CHRIST- MAS Hello everyone We’d like to thank the Church for allowing us to bor- Sorry for mentioning Christmas this early in the year row tables and chairs for our recent Daffodil tea and but I want to update folk. We are fortunate enough to also Irene’s Tea Room for supplying the trays bakes. be able to put on the Community Christmas Lunch We raised £257 at this event. The craft items we event again on Christmas day. make are on sale at our fundraising events and some In July and August Moray Community Christmas will are also on display in the front window. be one of the three fundraisers to choose from in the Our service offers a variety of activities which include Tesco bags for help. armchair exercises, reminiscence, quizzes, bingo ses- If anyone would like to volunteer on the day please get sions, board games, pampering, arts and crafts and in touch someone who is a dab hand in the kitchen gardening. We are very appreciative of the continued would be really useful. support that is given to us by our volunteers on a Tues- If anyone wants to be a guest please get in touch. Last day, Wednesday and Thursday. year was a fantastic day with a good mix of people Our ladies continue to knit baby jumpers and squares from Moray. The age range was from 6 months to 94 which are passed onto the Church when we have a few years. made. We are in the process of organising our Summer out- Youth club ings and have also started making our items for entry We are also toying with the idea of getting a youth into the Rothes Show. cafe / club started. If any young people think this is We would like to thank Mr Bruce Gordon for the very something needed, and something they would make kind donation of a bird house for our garden. Every- use of and are keen to get involved, please register one enjoys watching the birds come to the seed and your interest and any thoughts on the Facebook page nut feeders that we hang on the bird house. We all Rothes Action for Youths in Speyside. It will be a club enjoy spending time in the garden when the weather or clubs for the children, run by the children of P7 up- permits. Also thanks to Beatrice Jamieson (a former wards. staff member) who donated a hanging basket for the Thank you front door. Stephanie Allsop/Walby Linnburn Day Centre 831262

ROTHES FC SOCIAL CLUB MORAY SCHOOL BANK

News from the club Moray School Bank has now moved into our new We are now serving Tennents Lager on draught - premises in 31 High Street, Rothes. We are currently Come and try a pint. in the process of preparing the premises so that we can offer local volunteering opportunities. Dates for your diary We are really excited to be bringing a local charity to Annual General Meeting Friday 29th June 7pm Rothes, and will be opening the doors very soon.

Bingo on Friday & Sunday evenings Thanks 7th July Coffee Morning Debi 14th July Tombola Debi Weir 28th July RFC Prosecco Party Moray School Bank 4th August Chris Grant 07884036803 [email protected] Please come along and support your local club

4 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery ROTHES FOOTBALL CLUB

Rothes FC have started pre-season training and have signed a number of players to boost the squad, including Summer seems to have arrived and it has been a Steven Anderson who was joint top scorer at Wick last busy few months for the cadets of 423 (Speyside) season. Iain Maclennan a left sided midfield player, Scott DF……. Graham, Jamie Duff and Alisdair Stark also have joined The May bank holiday weekend was hugely suc- the club. cessful for 423 (Speyside)df, as it was Highland Rothes FC Youth Development are proud to see Euan Wings annual competition weekend. We came 3rd Simpson and Daniel Cotton progress to the next level of in the small drill comp, Cdt Sherwood for a 2nd in their football careers by signing for the club and going on the photographic competition under the section of loan to New Elgin. We hope to see them in the first team atc in action title "atc family", all this and that was in the future. only on the Saturday. Then on the Sunday we had Our Monthly Draw continues to grow in numbers thanks our best medal haul in a long while at our wing to all who have entered, forms are available from any athletics. 4 golds, 2 silver, 2 bronze and two wing committee member, on our website or in the Social Club. records. And to top it off joint best "class A" male went to our very own Cpl Currie presented by Sportsman's Dinner commonwealth and Olympian local to Moray, Friday 13th July in Grant Hall. Speakers are Motherwell Mark Dry. Such a proud day. Legend John Gahagan and Sports impersonator Paul As a result of our successes in May, 3 cadets rep- Reid. 7pm -7.30pm Start. Tickets £50 each includes 3 resented Highland Wing at the inter-regional ath- course dinner. See any committee member for tickets, or letics at Grangemouth and again another fantastic email: [email protected] day for 423 (Speyside) Air Cadets. Not only did they represent Highland Wing they also came Friendlies home with medals. 3rd July Rothes v Inverness Caley Thistle 7.45pm Outwith this the cadets had a visits from Biathlete 7th @ Spartans 3pm Paul Whibley (Team GB) who showed the cadets 11th @ Ross County 7.30pm at HFA the principles of shooting by using laser, even the 14th Rothes v Nairn Saint Ninian 1pm staff had a go, a good night by all. Equally many 21st Rothes v Dyce 2pm other activities have been taking place like leader- ship exercises, Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, Date BREEDONS HIGHLAND LEAGUE sports are just a few. Sat 28 July Rothes FC v Fort William FC As I come to a close the School holidays are fast Wed 1 Aug Reserved for ADFA/NSFA Cups approaching and the cadets are not slowing down, we have cadets attending a “blue” camp which this Sat 4 Aug Strathspey Thistle FC v Rothes FC year is being held in Yorkshire, The Royal Inter- Wed 8 Aug Rothes FC v Cove Rangers FC national Tattoo, the ATC first ever national shoot- ing camp, a helicopter muster and the opportunity Sat 11 Aug Keith FC v Rothes FC to fly in August. Sat 18 Aug Brora Rangers FC v Rothes FC If you know of any young person who are 12 and in S1 and above and would be interested in join- Wed 22 Aug Reserved for ADFA/NSFA Cups ing then please follow us on Facebook, instagram Sat 25 Aug Rothes FC v Lossiemouth FC and see videos of us on you tube and any inquires Wed 29 Aug Nairn County FC v Rothes FC please direct to oc.423df @aircadets.org, equally pop down on a Monday or Thursday night 1830 – Sat 1 Sept Rothes FC v Deveronvale FC 2100, telephone number 01340 831115 Sat 8 Sept Wick Academy FC v Rothes FC

Wed 12 Sept Reserved for ADFA/NSFA Cups Sat 15 Sept Rothes FC v Forres Mechanics FC Sat 22 Sept Scottish Cup Round 1 Sat 29 Sept Clachnacuddin FC v Rothes FC Sat 6 Oct Rothes FC v Fraserburgh FC

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 5 THE GRANT HALL PUBLIC TOILETS

Well, half the year is over and it has been a very pro- Since the 8th May the gentlemen’s toilets have been ductive six months for us. Thank you to everyone who vandalised on three separate occasions in a manner responded to our Questionnaire included with the that cannot be described in detail for fear of causing March edition of the Rothesian. All the responses were offense to our readers. Suffice to say that the individu- very positive and encouraging. al(s) responsible have behaved in a most disgusting way that almost beggars belief. Since then we have gone ahead and completely refur- The toilets are there for the benefit of residents and bished the Craigie Room at a cost of £17,340. The visitors alike; some of whom may have medical needs room was completely stripped back to the bare walls, and thus depend on the facilities to improve their qual- fully insulated and new, low energy heating and light- ity of life. What kind of impression do we expect to ing installed. A new bar was also fitted and for the make on tourists when faced with such deplorable first time ever it is a warm room. So far all who have acts.? I doubt they will return to Rothes in the future. seen it are suitably impressed. And what can we say to the people responsible for opening/closing and cleaning the toilets …..other than We are now in the process of raising money to fund offer a heartfelt apology. future projects. Helping us with this is Aileen Slessor We can only hope that the perpetrators find some who is running her ‘Wee Shoppie’ in the old Post Of- sense of shame when they next look in the mirror, but fice building in the Square. We were delighted to have somehow this would seem unlikely. been approached by her with her offer of help, and her Anyone observing this type of foul behaviour should daughter Lynne’s kind offer of the use of the property. report it to the police, local councillors and the Rothes Aileen would be very pleased to see you pop in for a Council. wee lookie and a chat. For those who miss the Library, she has a very large collection of books.

Now, do you shop with Amazon? If so, you can also COMPETITION! help with our efforts. Next time you go online, go to www.smile.amazon.co.uk. You will get your item(s) at Doric Words the same price, but we get a percentage of the pur- chase price paid into our account. In the list of Chari- Do you know the meaning of the following Doric ties, search for Grant Hall (Rothes) Ltd. It is surprising words? how quickly the fund builds up, even with small pur- chases. 1. Skweel

2. Orra loon We also have two upcoming fundraisers. On 21st July 3. Dubby we have the Carloways from Perth playing for us as 4. Raivelt part of their new CD Launch Tour. Even better, they 5. Thraan are being supported by Rothes loons Gary Moyes and 6. Swaak Shane Younie who recently got back together to play 7. Duek some music. They will be playing an acoustic set of 8. Ganzie some very well known tunes. Definitely a night not to 9. Fecht miss. 10. Girn

11. Hurdies The second event is being held on the 11th August. 12. Jeelt Ladies Day at Ascot Prosecco Afternoon. Contact 13. Brither Pauline on 07926571690 for details of tables and tick- 14. Roon ets. 15. Forfochen

In the meantime we hope you are enjoying your Sum- Answers on a postcard or envelope, to be put in the mer and look forward to seeing you in the Grant Hall Rothesian boxes at Longmores, Tawse the Butchers, sometime soon. the Emporium and the Cottage.

Winner will receive a bottle of Glen Grant from our sponsor.

6 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery ROTHES TENNIS CLUB spot although level on points with Grantown. The run in to gain promotion will be very interesting. The la- By the time this edition of the Rothesian is published dies are doing well in Division 3 and should finish in the league season will be over. At the time of writing 3rd place. We have had problems fielding a team in the the three Mini Tennis events have reached a conclu- Men’s competition. Some matches have had to be can- sion. celled and the team is in danger of being forced out of In their competition, the 9 & Unders finished in sec- next season’s event because of the rule which states ond place. They were level on points with Bellfield A that at least 50% of matches have to be played. (Inverness) but lost out on sets countback. The title The club has started a Box League which is proving was lost because of a mix up with the Inverness based popular. Members are placed in groups of four and club’s B team. They refused to re-organise and the have to play each other once. They have a month to league committee ruled in our favour awarding an 11- complete the three matches. The joint leaders, on 36 0 score-line. This was not enough to close the gap. points, are Kate Malcolm & Lucas Ayres. The sad thing for the boys was that, had the match gone ahead, Rothes would undoubtedly have won by a bigger margin, enough probably to finish winners. Elsewhere the 8s and 10s did not do so well. However they enjoyed the tennis, had fun and that is what it is SENIOR CITIZENS all about. The six clubs competing in the 8 & Unders met at We are now on our summer break, our last meeting Gordonstoun on Saturday 2nd June to complete their held on 2nd May. We have had a very good year with fixture schedule. The squad was: Ian Kennedy, Alex good entertainment and banter, and look forward to Fox, Tristan Taylor, Harvey Burgess, Ava Ross, Ava the same when our next session starts in October. Slaughter Our coffee morning in April was a great success mak- On the 16th it was the turn of the 9s & 10s for their day ing £560 after expenses. A big thank you to everyone out. The Bellfield Park Courts in Inverness were the who donated, helped and supported us on the day. The venue and the weather was terrible. The youngsters proceeds helped towards our bus trip to Inverness, a were not put off by the rain, on the contrary it added to good day out enjoyed by all. the fun of the occasion. The league trophies were pre- Our AGM is on 26th September in the Church Hall. sented in the afternoon. There were also awards for We will remind you in the next edition and in the the best performing youngsters over the six match pe- press. Enjoy the break everyone and hope this lovely riod. The club’s Hamish Scott won the 9 and Under weather continues. (Seeds 1 & 2) medal. He recorded a 91% sets win lev- el. Helen and Jean The 9s Squad was: Hamish Scott, Ben Ross, Michael Myron-Petrie, Antony Lewis, Ian Kennedy The 10s squad was Lewis Myron-Petrie, Alfie ROTHES BOWLING CLUB McConnachie, Kayla Smart , Shane Fox. In the Junior ranks the 12s A team lost out to Bellfield The bowling green is now open for the summer, and it A. The two sides met on Monday 18th June with the is encouraging that 6 new members have joined this title at stake. On completion of the singles the score year. Hat nights on a Monday evening have been well stood at five sets each. The doubles were going to de- supported. 22 members are competing in the club cide the outcome. The two rubbers were expected to competitions. Friendly matches have been arranged be close run things but in the event there was a total with Aberlour and Lhanbryde bowling clubs. A coffee collapse as our boys went down 4-0, 4-0 and 4-0,4-1. morning has been arranged in the Church Hall on Sat- This was an inexplicable turn of events. The 14s have urday 18th August. Anyone who is interested in bowl- been performing well, winning more than they have ing will be welcome on a Friday evening at 7.00 pm lost. Playing in the 12s were Fraser Scott, Liam An- free of charge, or at any time with arrangement with a derson, Jack McConnachie, Reece Davies, Keil Laing, member. Conaire Bowie, Archie Scott, Charlie Kennedy while Bradley Scott, Scott Anderson, Alannah Ayres and Kenzie Shepherd were part of the 14s set up. The three Senior teams are having mixed results. The Mixed quartet have been performing well, lying in top

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 7 GOLDEN YEARS CONGRATULATIONS ROSS

My parents, Jim Congratulations to Rothes student Ross Howarth who & Doreen Rid- graduated from Aberdeen University with an MA in doch, Spey Sociology. To celebrate his achievement he was Street, Rothes, joined by his parents, his sister and his aunt. celebrated their Ross is a former Golden wed- pupil of Spey- ding anniver- s i d e H i g h sary on the School. 22nd of June. He is currently Just like to con- working as a gratulate them. guide at Spey- Thanks side Cooperage Andy Riddoch. Visitor Centre where he will take time to decide on the next step in his career.

ROTHES TARTAN WEDDING PIC!

This is the new Rothes Tartan, as voted for by the peo- ple of Rothes. We now have to wait for the Register of Scottish Tar- tans in Edinburgh to give us permission to officially call it our own then we can have the first run of cloth woven for us by Knockando Woolmill. Steven Love married Allyson Grant at the Nethy- bridge Hotel on 21st April. Best wishes to them both!

8 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery ROTHES FC LADIES DAY TENNIS CLUB PICTURES

The 3rd Ladies Day was a great success with 136 la- dies attending from near and far.

Bellfield 9s and 10s

The theme was purple and the weather was fantastic again, adding to the great atmosphere of the day. Many thanks to everyone who attended, helped and donated raffle prizes. We raised near £8000 for the club.

Goronstoun 8s team

Thanks Denise, Pauline and Debby.

RFC youth coach Graeme Christie with local signings Euan Simpson and Daniel Cotton.

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 9 CLASS OF 51 COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP

On Saturday 23rd April, pupils of the class of 51 Graeme Christie wishes to thank the community for Rothes Junior Secondary school were re-united once their great response to his pavilion, park and burn again. Some of them had kept in touch over the years clean-up. Over twenty people took part and the area and had held a couple of get-togethers, but in 2009 the was left in an immaculate condition. So if you were first ‘official’ re-union was held. Joan Chalmers came wielding a litter picker, a sweeping brush, a black bag over from Canada and half way through the afternoon or a paint brush, whether you were young or old - well we had a phone call from Ronnie Johnstone in Aus- done from the Rothes folks. tralia. Ronnie came in person to the next one held in 2014. Since then there has been a further two – one in September 2016 which unfortunately Gordon could not attend because of his health, and the most recent TRANSPORT - USE IT OR LOSE IT one in April at Eastbank Hotel. There was quite a gathering – ten pupils. Marion The Whisky Trail 2018 - Recently a whisky trail bus Tawse (Bechley), Davy McBain, Alan McDonald, was launched in Speyside. This bus service 36 oper- Bob Marshall, Isobel Milne (Williamson), Patsy Pater- ates up to every hour Monday to Saturday, and from son (Laing), Margaret McLean, Mary Robertson Sunday the 1st July until 12th August there will be a (McKenzie), Rita Stewart (Paterson) and Ann Hep- Sunday service as a trial over the summer. Speyside burn (Nicholl). There was also a support party of 3, 36 which operates in Speyside, runs from Elgin to Hannah McDonald, Dougie Milne and myself. In to- Rothes, Craigellachie, Aberlour and Dufftown. The tal a minimum of 1060 years in the room. Maureen first bus leaving Elgin at 9.30am and last bus leaving and her staff provided a lovely buffet. Margaret Elgin 16.30pm. From Dufftown to Elgin first bus leav- McLean had recently had a birthday so she got to cut ing Dufftown 10.25am and last bus leaving 17.25pm. the cake. The first cake had been cut by Mary The Sunday service is something Speyside has been McVean (Miss Newlands – the Teacher) and Gordon wanting for a number of years. This is our chance to Scott, and the last time by Patsy Paterson as she was keep it, as it is a case of use it or lose it. the youngest. Timetables are available from the Cottage. Since the first re-union we have gained some, and sad- ly lost some. Billy Coull, Jimmy Logan, Mary McVean, Rena Rabson (Ross) and my husband Gor- don. Some of you may remember Gordon’s story from an earlier Rothesian he hadn’t been back in DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Rothes in fifty years. He lived in New Street and left to join the army. I finally persuaded him to come Congratulations to Alan and Hannah McDonald of back up from Sedgefield, County Durham and the first Land Street, who celebrated their Diamond Wedding schoolmate he met up with was Davy McBain. After Anniversary on 16th April. They had a telegram from meeting and contacting other the idea of holding a the Queen, and a visit from the Lord Lieutenant school re-union took shape. After the first we agreed to meet in five years, then again in two years, then it came down to one year. At the last one it was laugh- ingly suggested that due to our ages we should cut it ROTHES COUNCIL down to six months. We had a really good day which was enjoyed by eve- We would like to thank Amy and the patrons of The ryone. Many thanks go to Maureen and her staff, es- Seafield Arms Hotel for their generous donation of pecially Liam who was a great help on the day. £100 towards the festive lighting, the money having I wasn’t a pupil at Rothes school, I’m not even Scot- been raised from a raffle. tish, but thank you to the pupils and staff for accepting me and making me feel so welcome. I am looking forward to the next one. Doreen Scott, Sedgefield.

10 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery Rothes Diary Hall 8th September Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall –

Rothes Golf Club Please note that the diary displayed in the Notice 15th September Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall Board is updated every few weeks or so and takes - Kirk in changes which occur during the time between the 15th September Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club Rothesian quarterly editions,. Please keep Sandra 22nd September Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall informed of events and meetings as fundraising – Rothes Tennis Club works best with no competition! 29th September Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall Please note the special email address for the diary: –Ladies Section Rothes Golf Club [email protected]

If you would like the diary emailed to you, please October contact this address. You can also make contact via 5th October Schools close for Autumn Break facebook. 6th October Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social

Club July 10th October Rothes Senior Citizens New Session 4th July Wind farm Exhibition in Grant Hall 13th October Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall –n 6th July Mobile Library in Square 13.00 to 16.00 Stable & Able (Elgin) 7th July Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club 20th October Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – 13th July Rothes FC Sportsman Dinner in Grant Hall Sing for Life Choir 14th July Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – Sta- 20th October Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club ble & Able 22nd October Schools Re-open after Autumn 21st July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Speyside Leg Break Club 27th October Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes 21st July Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club Visitor Centre 21st July Carloways supported by Gary Moyes & 27th October Rothes Golf Club Annual Prize Giving Shane Younie at Grant Hall at Golf Clubhouse 28th July Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – 27th October Rothes Tennis Club Race Night in Friends of the Oaks Grant Hall 28th July Rothes FC Ladies Prosecco Afternoon at

Social Club

August

4th August Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club

11th August

14th August Schools re-open DOG FOULING 14th August Babies and Toddlers new session th 17 August Strength and Balance Class resumes in Doggie bags are available “free of charge” for anyone Kirk Hall who has difficulties in obtaining them. Please call at 18th August Coffee morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – The Cottage Visitor Centre between 11am and 3pm. Rothes Bowling Club Some have been attached to the fence by the red bin at 18th August Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club the end of Green Street, and behind Land Street Gar- 25th August Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – age, as well as by the gala stores. Anyone having ideas Rothes P School as to where else would be a suitable location please let 31st August/1st Sept RIHS Annual Show us know. Keep Rothes Tidy!

September 1st September Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club 4th September Rothes BALL Group resumes in Kirk

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 11 1918 April – July 70 men answered roll call. 12th-13th April: heavy fighting and withdrawals continued Backs to the wall, to last man and bullet rd until passed through 3 division lines and sent to billets at General: At end of March, (28th), the Germans launched Busnes. Here the scale of their effort was seen. Even after nd stragglers etc were returned, only 5 platoons, 1 company Operation Mars, the 2 phase of the ‘Kaiserschlachte’. The nd st equivalent, of the local battalion was left. The 152 BEF buckled in some places but broke in others. The 51 rd had been heavily engaged in defence along the Bapaume to and153 brigades combined could only muster 2 battalions Albert Amiens road. 152nd Brigade had been defending the (15 officers & 450 ORs). Beaumetz area with 6th Seaforths and 6th Gordons engaged The rest of April was spent in reserve or receiving new drafts of men, many only just over 18 years old, catching up in a fighting withdrawal, necessary to ensure both French nd and British forces could work in conjunction to prevent the more stragglers, reforming the 152 brigade, routine train- ing and sports. fall of the major supply depot and railhead at Amiens. If rd that happened then the Allies would have been split and the May 1: battalion celebrated 3 anniversary of their deploy- British would have to fall back to the sea. The line was sta- ment to the Western Front. An extra meal and beer was is- bilized and the German attack stalled. sued. April saw the German 3rd phase, Operation Georgette, May2 - 5: routine training etc continued. launched in Flanders, with the intention of capturing key May 6 - 16: moved to two different sectors, Oppy sector nd near Roclincourt to relieve Canadian troops in trenches, and railheads and supply routes to isolate the 2 Army round th th Ypres. The assault had initial successes, but hastily scraped the next right sector to relieve 6 Camerons of 15 division. up British and French reserves, deployed along the River Our unit now only 1000 yards from German front. During Lys, held the line. Enemy units had been within 50 miles of this time many patrols took place by both sides with occa- Paris. sional machine gun fire and some artillery. There were a During May/June 5 British Divisions were sent to relieve few casualties amongst which was the CO of one month, Lt/ the French along the Chemin de Dames. This would allow Col. Maxwell. May17 - 23: relieved and moved to resume training, clean- these French divisions, which were relatively fresh as the th area had been mainly quiet, to move North to help there. ing and lectures, then back to Oppy sector to replace 4 These divisions had all been badly mauled in earlier Seaforths. fighting. Unfortunately, shortly after arrival, these divisions May 27 - June 2: German bombardments for several hours were struck by the Germans launching, on May27th, opera- at a time but few casualties despite mix of gas used on HQ. tion Blucher the next phase of the breakthrough attempt. It New CO arrived just as relief came. almost destroyed these weakened units, , forcing the line June 10 – 30: back in line, relieved for 4 days as reserve further back. The situation was so serious that it led to Mar- improving trenches etc, then training before moving up to shal Foche, by agreement, being made Generalissimo of the line again. Allied forces. Haig also issued his ‘back to the walls’ in- July1 – 10: system as before with some clashes and small raids in no man’s land. A major raid was carried out on 8th struction to all units saying that there would be no further th retreat. [‘Every position must be held to the last man, there which went well. Canadians relieved battalion on 10 . A must be no retirement, each one of us must fight on to the storm was about to break on their heads as a result of the end’]. This took place and time was gained over July to re- enemy assaults in June which had reached the river Marne. group, gathering forces for a fight back. The Germans now Anticipating an attack near Rheims, Foche had reinforced weakened by loss of men, tiredness from the rapid advances the line and had on July 13 requested that General Haig release British divisions to take over part of the French line. and trouble with extended supply lines despite using cap- th st th nd tured ones. In many cases the German troops stopped fol- He sent the 15 Scottish, 51 Highland, 34 & 62 divi- lowing up in order to feed on the captured dumps as they sions. were very hungry. July 11 - 13: Battalion moved by train to fresh billets & Local: The local Seaforth battalion lost over 100 casualties issued fresh clothing. in the latter part of March & were rested. July 15: German offensive started across a 50 mile front Early April; camped at Gosnay and slowly getting back into East & South-East of Reims, making significant advances shape with a settled routine of training, lectures, new equip- but causing a bulge in French lines. This attack was halted ment and receiving reinforcements. by a mix of French, American and Italian troops just before 9th April: moved to Couture. While there, the 2nd German the arrival of the British Divisions. July 16: Battalion along with the rest of division moved phase, operation Georgette, was launched, punching a hole st th South in French transport lorries. Once in area the 51 was through the Portuguese defence line. At 12.50 pm the 6 nd was rushed forward plugging the gap, surprising the enemy concentrated to South of Reims along with the 62 . The other two divisions were further away near Soissons. The with the strength of their defence. A vital bridge was not st properly destroyed, allowed the Germans to cross despite 51 was quickly moved to just North of the Marne ready to fierce resistance by the A&S Highlanders who were forced help the French. back by 2 am on 11th. Further breakthroughs in the North threatened the divisional left flank. Heavy casualties were st th th th July 20 – 31: the 51 , including the 6 , was part of XXII inflicted on the enemy but some of the 6 Gordons & 5 th Seaforths were left behind and captured. At one point only Corps of French 5 Army in Ardre Valley. They attacked

12 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery Bois de Courton, 153 & 154 brigades up front, but met stiff ROTHES 100 YEARS. resistance to the extent that, by 6.30 pm, our local lads were attached to 153 brigade to follow up arriving at 4am next The last few weeks have been mercifully free of casu- day being subjected to heavy fire resulting in 60 casualties. alty commemorations for Rothes, but 100 years ago it The next few days saw continued heavy fighting with gas shells being used against them and unfortunately casualties must have seemed a blessed respite. We did have in mounted. At one stage they were forced to cover due to May, the anniversary of one of the Canadian lads who French ‘friendly fire’. was working in the forestry along Orton way, who was 27th : both of the British divisions launched combined artil- killed in an accident. He is buried just inside the ceme- lery bombardments and assaulted the enemy positions. The tery gates here and visitors may notice a special cross 6th Seaforths did well and soon noticed that the Germans placed there on the anniversary by members of the were making an orderly withdrawal. After more severe Western Front Association. On 16th July, the Western th fighting on the 28 at Chaumuzy they were pulled out and Front will be placing a special cross at Knockando sent to rest until end of July. Kirkyard for 2nd Lieutenant Robert Duncan RAF age The turning point of the whole war was about to be reached. 20. It is hoped that the ceremony will take place at

11am and all are welcome to attend. Casualties in this period: rd Rothes: But the casualties start again on 3 / 4th July for 11 April: John Grant, 4th Gordons (20/7th), age 34, Rothes, with Charles Cameron, a cousin of the 3 boys farmed in Rothes. Loos Memorial. from that family lost in the Great War, who was 27 18th April: Archibald Taylor, 2nd Seaforths (10/4th), age and with the machine Gun Corp. He must have been a 27, resident Rothes. Interred Choques Military Ceme- POW as buried in Berlin. Later on July 27th, Alexan- tery. der Smith, aged 19 of 5th Seaforths buried at Marfoux th th st 26 April: David Jack, RE (400 Coy/51 ), age 36, 11 Military Cemetery, will be marked. This was fol- North Street. Interred Berquette Kirk Cemetery. rd th lowed by two in August – 23 August, Edward Grigor 5 May: William Wilson Thomson, Royal Garrison Ar- of 10th Argyll & Sutherlands aged 18, who is com- tillery (241 Bty), age 23, Orton. Interred Esquelberg memorated at Vis – en- Artois and Gordon H Scott Military Cemetery. th 3rd July: Charles Cameron, MGCorps, age 27, Rothes. age 22 on 30 August who was killed within 100 Interred Berlin South Cemetery. yards of where his brother died about a year before. nd 27th July: Alexander Smith, 5th Seaforths (152/51st), age He was 2 Seaforths and is interred at Faubourg D’ 19, 27 Breich Street. Interred Marfaux Cemetery. Amiens. September 2rd saw John Kerr, aged 19, Royal Artillery killed in action and is interred at Delville Knockando: Wood in the Somme area, followed by on 24th Sep- th th th 6 April: James Robertson, 7 Seaforths (26/9 ), age 19, tember, William Fraser MM aged 19, 2nd Royal Scots Lynes Farm. Interred Etaples Military Cemetery. th th st interred Terlincthun Military Cemetery. 16 April: George McLeod, 5 Gordons (153/51 ), age As before we hope to find relatives, or a family with 24, Strondow, Knockando. Interred St. Sever Cemetery. th th the name to place the memorial cross in the 1918 18 May: George Gilmour Allardyce, 4 Australian th Infantry (1/1st Aus.), age 22, Viewmount, Archiestown. planter on the 100 anniversary of the death. One of Interred Mt. Jerome Cemetery. Edward Grigor’s relatives has been in touch, but is 16th July: Robert Ronald Duncan, 41st Training Sqdn outside the area. So if you are connected or have a RAF, age 20, Pitchroy, Blacksboat. Interred Knockando similar name to any of the casualties, please contact Cemetery. Glen and Sandra. 27th July: George McDonald, 6th Seaforths (152/51st), age 38, Dalmuch, Knockando. Interred Marfaux British Cemetery. ROTHESIAN REPLIES

Please post your replies for “Welcome to Rothes”, “The Craigellachie Spur” and “The Rothesian Doric Competition” in the boxes located at Longmores, Tawse the Butcher, The Emporium and The Cottage.

All entries should be made by Saturday 4th August.

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 13 NEWS FROM THE CAR SHARE SCHEME Does he agree that it is not just their driving that we June 2018 lose, but the extra service that they provide? The drivers who work for the Speyside community car With the lighter nights and the milder weather here sharing scheme in Moray do not just drop people off (long may it last) it's time to start thinking about get- at the doctor’s surgery or the hospital and then pick ting out and about and meeting new people or catch- them up again; they wait for them, and take them ing up with old friends again, the Car Share Scheme is back to their homes to ensure that they are safe after no exception. what can sometimes be a traumatic experience" As usual we hope to be at 'TEA IN THE PARK' Lastly and as always - If you live in Speyside/ throughout August with our 'whisky game' and goods Glenlivet and you have difficulty getting around to for sale and we hope to see as many people as possible certain things because of age, disability or infirmity there. It's always nice to take a trip to Glenlivet Hall then we might be able to help. Pick up one of our bro- for a cuppa and bite to eat. It's just one of the things in chures from your health centre, visit our website our area that lots of people look forward to as it is www.speysideccss.co.uk or telephone 01340 831 748 such a part of the summer. anytime between 9.00am- 5.00pm (Mon.-Fri.) to get For the evening of Thursday 30th August the Car Share all the information about eligibility for becoming a has been invited to run the raffle at the Dufftown Cei- member. lidh which will be held in the British Legion Club. We Please remember that as a member you don't have to are very grateful to the organisers who have kindly use the scheme but you must be a registered member given us this opportunity. All the money we raise from to be able to use the scheme if necessary. The ques- the raffle will go towards our funds and we look for- tions on the application form are in no way intrusive ward to saying 'Hello' to those of our members, volun- and it's very easy to complete. teers and supporters who attend these evenings. Irene Shaw (Project Coordinator) We have recently had 2 new volunteers bringing our total now to 28. (4 Telephonists, 22 drivers and 2 peo- ple who are solely committee members but who know the scheme very well). There is a new telephonist THE ROTHES COUNCIL who stays in Rothes and a new driver from Aberlour we are very happy to welcome them both onto our Quiet part of the year so far. team. The hanging baskets are out and the town is looking We've also been busier with journeys recently as lots great, thanks to Graeme and Charlie Christie and Fred of people are getting appointments at the hospitals Steele. Also thanks to Peter, Heather and friends for again and of course new members are always joining planting the tubs, barrow and flower beds. us. Here is what one new member, (Mrs S from We had the Commonwealth Games, and Rothes had a Rothes) said recently;- star in Megan. To this end we will be having a presen- "I would like to say how delighted I am with the ser- tation to her on Monday evening 2nd July to say well vice provided by the volunteers for the Speyside Com- done, This will be in the cottage at 7pm, everyone munity Car Sharing Scheme. We are very fortunate to welcome. have such a facility in the area and I will not hesitate The damage to the property in the High Street was to recommend you in the future but I will also volun- terrible, but I can tell you we at the council have spo- teer when I am able to. I know that the volunteers give ken to the Transport Department, who told us there up so much of their free time to transport people to was not a problem with speeding through Rothes, so appointments which they otherwise might not be able now you know. to attend. Once again, "Many Thanks" The Council are holding a Coffee Morning on Satur- There was some other welcome news for us recently day the 30th of June. We are looking for people to too as there was a debate in Westminster on 23rd April help, and for donations for Raffle Prizes about 'PATIENT TRANSPORT VOLUNTEERS'. We are not getting a Gala this year, but if anyone Douglas Ross MP for Moray spoke at this debate and would like to take this over there is money available mentioned us by name and we are very proud to have Well, all for now, but new members are always wel- our kind volunteers recognised in this way. He said:- come. We meet the first Monday of the month at 7pm "I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for securing a in the Cottage, except August. Please feel free to come debate on such an important issue. I was concerned along - you will be made welcome. to hear about the volunteer drivers who have given Jean Grimshaw up driving for the reasons that he has explained. 01340831808

14 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery NEWS FROM THE COTTAGE printed items. The Horticultural Society have had June 2018 their schedules and prize tickets printed, Aberlour visitor centre have had an A5 calendar produced, Since opening for this year we've had a very busy time and she has printed a leaflet about the Orphanage in at the Cottage. We were very fortunate with the amount Aberlour. All these things contribute enormously to of financial support we received from the 'Money for the Cottage funds. Moray' initiative which enabled us to start the process Throughout August we hope to have a stall at Tea in for Rothes to have its own tartan developed. Lots of the Park again this year where all of our new items people came along to the Cottage to vote for their pre- and all of our old favourites like the notelets and tea ferred design from a selection produced for us at towels will be show cased. Knockando Woolmill and the children at the primary If you are passing the Cottage and have a few school also took part and voted for their favourite too. minutes to spare then why not pop in and take a When added together the results were very close;- look at what's new - you may just find a little some- 1st choice was design number 3 with 31% of the vote thing that will please you or someone you know. 2nd choice was design number 4 with 27% of the vote 3rd choice was design number 2 with 22% of the vote 4th choice was design number 1 with 20% of the vote SPEYSIDE COMMUNITY COUNCIL We now have to wait for the Register of Scottish Tar- tans in Edinburgh to give us permission to officially call Still in its infancy our role is to ascertain, co- it our own then we can have the first run of cloth woven ordinate, and express to local & public authorities for us. the views of the community we represent in relation to matters that those authorities responsible for and We also received a grant from the Berryburn windfarm to take such action that appears to be expedient and fund which has enabled us to have some structural re- practicable. We cover the area of Speyside from pairs done. The stone walls, the roans and the down Inchberry and Glenlatterach to Edinvillie, Ball- pipes at the back of the building all received attention as intomb and Cardhu to Archiestown and a result. Knockando.. We have new exhibits reflecting some of the characters We will only be able to do this effectively with en- who once stayed in Rothes. There is now a picture of gagement of the communities of Speyside and we Buller, the town crier, and his bell. We also have a nice- are keen to have others join us, and to work with ly framed tribute to Gordon Ogilvie showing his photo- other local groups in addressing concerns. Mem- graph alongside the medals he was awarded and he is bers include Marion Ross, Andy Cameron, Jane soon to have good company as a similar tribute is Tweedie, Tony Garden, Chris Garden, Francis Shaw planned for Conrad Anderson. and Jean Richardson. We recently had a meeting at We've already had plenty of visitors from abroad this Craigellachie tennis pavilion of various community year, lots of them coming to search for information health managers and facilitators in Moray to discuss about their ancestors and others looking for what the the changes taking place at Aberlour medical prac- present day area has to offer. Now that we have the tice, and the challenges of rural health care. website it is hoped that local businesses and service pro- We have also been involved in discussions regard- viders will utilise the facility to advertise the variety of ing improved public links. Met with Frank Burns things on offer to visitors who choose to come and stay the general manager of Rothes CoRDe, and are try- for a while in our area. ing to initiate improvements to the footpath from We've got new stock for this year too. We have a little the Bairns Brig to Mackessack Park in Rothes, mak- desk calendar and a selection of interesting little books ing it more friendly user in winter. th on Scotland's wildlife, mountains, the Speyside Way Our next meeting is in Inchberry Hall on the 26 and Moray and Speyside. We have heart shaped wall June, at 7pm. We would be more than happy for plaques with all the Rothes street name printed on as you to join us. well as our own produced fridge magnets, coasters and key rings. Brand new for this year too is an A5 calendar which Pearl has produced. We hope that any of these items would make very acceptable small gifts which would also be quite easy to post away to family or friends. Pearl has also been very busy with commissions for

This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery 15 ROTHES NURSERY

Nursery had a great time serving customers at our 1 day charity shop; we raised £80 for Linnburn Day Centre. Nursery would like to thank the RSA for organising the purchase of our new garden shed, which we love and use daily. Thank you to the Rothes Windfarm Fund for their continued support. Morning nursery had a lovely visit to the Rothes Castle where we had great fun. Afternoon nursery enjoyed a walk and picnic up to Glen Grant Gardens. Thank you to all our helpers who came along for the fun. Rothes Nursery

Another picture of the Glen Grant Visitors Cafe

16 This issue is sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery