Ardgay District

ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Price: £1.00 ISSN 2514-8400 = Issue No. 42 = WINTER 2018-19 = exclusive interview with the new manager of the kyle of sutherland development trust David Watson: “I’m fully committed to the area, I believe it can be a strong sustainable community.”

Originally from Altass, Rural De- velopment expert David Watson has worked in places such as the Cairn- gorms National Park, Shetland and Inverness. He is now returning to this area to take on the role of Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust Manager. -How does it feel coming back? -This is very different for me than when I was working in other areas because there are friends of mine from when I went to Primary School who still live in the area, my moth- er still lives in this area, my auntie lives in this area... I have to answer to those people. -The stakes are higher... -The stakes are much higher. That David Watson (centre) with some of the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust Team. doesn’t intimidate me, I actually find it a really good challenge. I know able place to move forward. I really stand why we are doing things. It’s that the Trust is not going to be able want to do what is best for the com- easy to see what we are doing, we want to please everybody but we are trying munity and I’m hopeful that we can to be even better in telling people why to do what we think will work for the work with the different communities we are doing things and why it mat- community to make it a more sustain- within our area to help them under- ters to them. (Continues on page 4)

Ardgay Public Hall 50th Consult the amended plans Anniversary: stories of the Hall for the tree planting proposal at opening and who used it Page 12 Poplars (Jubilee Hill) Page 7

History of farming in The missing a Ardgay: grain salmon 36 pages featuring Lettes to the Editor, harvest project Opening times, Telephone guide, Bus & Train timetable, Page 16 Page 9 Sudokus & Crossword

SAMPLE MENU 11.30am until 2pm Bonar Bridge Community Hall Everyone Welcome

Lentil Broth —00— Chicken Pie, Carrots and Roast Potatoes —00—

Strawberry Gateau and Ice Cream —00—

Toasties - Cheese/Tuna mayo/Ham —00—

Childrens’ Snack Boxes (sandwich, yoghurt, raisins and fresh fruit juice) —OO— Cappuccino, Mocha, Latte or Hot Chocolate Tea/Coffee Fruit Juice, Bottled Water—Still or Sparkling —OO—

Takeaways must be ordered before 11.30am and collected by 1pm. Please phone 0798 5626340/01863 766554 to order. ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 3

Contents

11 14 20 27

ARDGAY News =The Energy Advice Service Carbon what’s on in the area ��26 =Interview with David Watson, new Literacy workshops �� 14 Manager at the Kyle of Sutherland =History of farming in Ardgay: Wildlife �� 27 Development Trust ��4 grain harvest �� 16 =Amended plans for the tree =The ‘Old School Embo’ project ��19 adult clubs & societies ��28 planting proposal at Jubilee Hill �� 7 =Remembrance Sunday 2018 �� 20 =How to contact your CC �� 8 =Falls of Shin receives two IAA gearrchoille wood ��29 =The Missing Salmon project ��9 Awards ��21 =Highland Wireless extends its =How to apply for wind farm funds �22 children & young people ��30 Superfast Broadband coverage �� 10 =Directors sought for High Life =Festive season for the clients at the Highlands ��22 CHURCHES ��32 Bradbury Centre ��11 =Volunteers needed at CAB �� 11 letters to the editoR local services a-z ��33 =Ardgay Public Hall celebrates its =Winter Resilience Plan ��24 50th Anniversary �� 12 =Concerns over Croick Church �� 25 puzzles �� 35

Ardgay & District photographs editor’s letter Looking back here are quite a few anniver- Tsaries in 2018 (200 years of Carron Bridge, 100 years of the Armistice, 50 years of Ardgay Hall), and some of you have approached me to share photos and stories of past times -which I am very grateful for- (history of farming, past and present of Croick Church). So, in the pages of this Winter edition, we’ll look closely at local history and heritage, hopefully to learn something and to get inspiration moving forward. To balance this, I hope you’ll enjoy the interview Bridge over the river Carron by Donald Bain with David Watson, new man- 2018 marks the 200th anniversary of Carron Bridge, built by Alexander Thomas ager at the Development Trust, Luirson. The inscription on a plaque which is centre on the downstream side reads: who speaks about the future of “This bridge was erected at the expense of the Second District of Roads in Ross- the Kyle of Sutherland. < shire in 1818.” This date is unusually early for a highland road bridge, reflecting the importance of the area. Its alternative Gaelic name is ‘Torran Dubh’. Silvia Muras Editor Page 4 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News interview with david watson, kyle of sutherland development trust manager: “We want to be even better in telling people why we are doing things and why it matters to them”

(Starts on front page ) David Watson received A^DCC editor at his office at the Barn. Approach- able, sharp and direct, he speaks very passionately about the area and his job at the front of the Trust. -You are originally from Altass. How does it feel coming back after being away? -Really good. I’ve worked in many places through the Highlands and further afield but never really felt like home. This is home. I hope to move back to the area shortly. It’s always been really important for me to come back, so I’m really happy, this is in the essence my dream job. -What are your first impres- projects there, I would always had on sions? “Wherever I was under- the back of my mind: “I wonder how -First impressions are really good taking projects in other would this work back at home”. I’ve and it’s incredible the amount of good areas, I would always have always felt a huge sense of belonging work that the Trust has done in the to where I come from. I’m very proud last five years and in particular when at the back on my mind, of being a Highlander and very proud Helen Houston was the Manager. I’ve ‘I wonder how would this of being from Sutherland, so it’s been come into an organisation that has work back at home’ something that probably is a passion 16 other staff apart from me. That’s a for me as much as work. I’m doing huge amount for a development trust ested in rural development and over work that I really enjoy. in a small rural area. I’m massively the years I’ve seen the rural areas -You’ve been the Economic De- impressed with all the staff and the change. There were 30 children in velopment Manager at the Cairn- professionalism of the good people we Rosehall Primary School when I left, gorms National Park, and your have working here. There is actually a and there are significantly less than studies are focused on Economics. good amount of people from the local that now. But there was a lot more Are you going to put the word ‘Eco- area employed, which is really posi- opportunities for young people, and nomic’ in the Kyle of Sutherland tive as well. That shows that some of people were able to work the land Development Trust? the work -as far as economic develop- a lot more. I’ve seen that gradually -My most recent job is Economic ment- is working, because young peo- deteriorate as far as the economic Development Manager at the Nation- ple with degrees have the opportunity opportunities and the opportunities al Park. I have often had Economic in to work in their profession. for economic reactive people in the my title, but I am not a person who be- -What motivates you? area, and it’s always been something lieves in the economics of growth at all -Growing up in a rural area. My that I’ve wanted to try and do some- costs. I think sustainability is the most family has been in the same croft in thing about. So whenever I’ve been important aspect, especially in rural Altass since the 1880s. My granny, working in these other areas, wheth- communities. At the same time, I do who was the head of the family, she er it be Shetland or Inverness and believe that figures have to add up, always instilled the real sense of be- Nairn and Moray and the National and if you are assessing a project you longing to us. So I was always inter- Park, wherever I was undertaking have to make sure that it’s sustainable. ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 5

Ardgay & District News

Not all of the things that we choose to ing things out there and we have been do from a social perspective are go- “People are the strongest successful doing other contracts, the ing to be economically sustainable, so asset to any area, especially reason we do that is to continue to sometimes what we have to do is find when you talk about rural work within the Kyle of Sutherland. other ways of bringing in the ability to areas. If you don’t have -Who should approach the De- sustain services that are necessary for people, a mix of people, velopment Trust? the population but aren’t always going the whole place dies” Anybody that has a real interest to be able to make money and to sus- in helping the community to thrive tain themselves. One of the things I’ll “Without homes, without should approach the Trust. I think one have to try and balance is how to do of the things we wish to do in the fu- that. Generating more income from jobs, without transport, ture is find an easier way for the local the Trust that is not just driven from without childcare community to engage with the Trust, public investment is really important. and without digital and for the Trust to engage with the See how we can bring in commercial connectivity, the community because the success of the income streams so we can continue community will suffer” Trust and the success of the local com- to do some of the work that might not munity are inextricably linked: one generate a good income stream but is really important to the community -and that could be things from the Community Food Stop to Keep Active Together- but, as I said, you can’t run them as a commercial business so we have to generate income streams else- where. -What are the strongest assets to this area? -The people. The people are the strongest asset to any area, and spe- cially when you talk about rural areas. If you don’t have people and you don’t have a mix of people, the whole place David has an impressive collection of books about heritage and local history at his office. dies. We have incredible environmental assets here, we live in a beautiful been in the communities here. The cannot succeed without the other. It’s part of the world, but without homes, reality is -and this is why I say that as really important that we have a link- without jobs, without transport, with- an organisation we need to get better age there, so I think in the future we out childcare and without digital con- at telling people why we do things- will try to make it easier. But my office nectivity, the community will suffer. I that if we look at the work that our door is open, so if anybody would like feel that we have to look at those five contracts team has done with the to come and have a chat about how pillars of sustainable development Embo Trust developing their project, they feel about the area, if they have and make sure that we are giving the that has brought in income into this ideas that they want to share, I’m community the opportunity not to be Trust that’s allowed us to do the work more than happy to have a chat with disadvantaged, we have to make sure that doesn’t make the income. So, al- anybody who feels that can help the they have the ability to thrive. though we may be working out-with community to thrive. -Some of the current projects of the Kyle of Sutherland area, the focus -What are the biggest challenges the KoS Development Trust reach will always be in there. The reason we for the Trust in the near future? other parts of Sutherland, or even a work out-with the area is to ensure -We have been very successful in wider Highland area, can we expect that we can generate income, that we the last 5-year period and we have a to have the focus of the KoS Devel- can generate employment and that large number of staff working here. opment Trust back into Ardgay & the benefit of that income and that We have to ensure that the Trust can District and Creich areas? employment is actually here. We need continue to produce what it has been 8 -The focus of the Trust has always to reinforce that although we are do- (Continues on page 6) Page 6 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News

8 (Starts on page 5) can help with the digital aspect. between the internal communities of producing, which is a big challenge. childcare: One of the two more the Kyle of Sutherland, and also on- It’s really difficult for us to make challenging ones I think is childcare. wards to Tain, Dornoch, Inverness. money, we have to put in a lot of ap- Childcare is essential in rural areas for We’re lucky we have a train station in plications, we have to work in a lot allowing women to get back into the Ardgay, we need to link up with that. of project development to make sure workplace, for stopping population Most people have to travel in rural that we can get money, and money is drift towards populated places that areas and a lot of people have cars be- hard to come by. We need to continue have more opportunities for women cause of that, but also there are some to make sure that we can produce for in particular to be able to work. We’re people who don’t have access to cars the community. so it can be challenging. We need to, I think, better engage Those five areas are really crucial with the community, but I don’t think areas for us to investigate. If we tackle that’s a big challenge, that’s an enjoy- those five areas and see what we can able thing. I think that’s an important do, that’s going to help a lot. I have to aspect of what we are doing, I really also have a balance about wanting to want to do that. Without doing that, ensure that tourism can thrive in the we’re going to struggle. area, wanting to ensure that we have Other big challenges... Well, I’ve a good tourism product for visitors to mentioned five areas where rural come to and, at the same time, doing communities need input: the day-to-day job that we do. homes: We sold the land adjacent to -Is there anything you would like Drovers Square in Ardgay to Albyn to add? Housing Association who are current- -Basically, the one thing is that I’m ly building four new houses for social fully committed to the area. I believe in rent -so there are homes going up at this area and I believe it does have the the moment, and we are looking at real possibilities to be a strong sustain- other areas within the Trust area. A number of businesses share space able community. The Trust are one of with the Development Trust at The Barn. employment: Apart from the em- the partners who can help that hap- ployment we have within the Trust, pen. I think we’re lucky in what’s been we also have several businesses shar- To be a sustainable done here. If we look at the fact that ing this space: CH Architecture, Hair community we need we own the Post Office building which at the Barn and Business Gateway, for better transport between has allowed the Post Office service to instance. We employ local contrac- the communities of the continue in Bonar Bridge; when the tors as much as we can. But one area Kyle of Sutherland and to Falls of Shin burnt down there was that we need to be working a little bit no other organisation that could step more successfully is the promotion of Tain, Dornoch, Inverness in and do something there; and as far tourism, because tourism is the best as re-developing the square here, I way for local businesses to gain more looking at areas where we can work think that’s been fantastic because it customers. And we have a good story with local partners to try and develop was becoming an eyesore in one of the to tell here and with the success of the something that helps with that. gateways to Sutherland. Our track re- NC 500 this area is a wonderful place transport: The one which is prob- cord is good but we want to continue to visit. We’ll put a little bit more work ably the most difficult, -and I’ve to do that, and for the people to feel into bringing more visitors here where seen it in other areas as well, so is that the Trust is a valuable part of the businesses can thrive on those visitors not unique to here-, it’s community community. But I know that I can’t and we’ll work with HOST, Heart of transport. I really want to get to the just expect that, I have to work hard Sutherland Tourism, to do that. bottom to what provision we have at to make sure that continues. We’re digital: We put a significant the moment and what possibilities probably never going to please every- amount of money into equipment we have in the future because I think body but we’ll try to do what’s best for that allows Highland Wireless to be if we really want to be a sustainable the community and make sure that able to roll out. Rosehall went live in community to move forward, we the community is sustainable moving November. We are really hopeful we have to try and get better transport forward. < Silvia Muras ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 7

Ardgay & District News

amended plan 22/10/2018

after the presentation given at ardgay & district community council october meeting Amendments to the initial proposal of tree planting on Balnagown Estates (Jubilee Hill)

As was presented at the ral regeneration of trees Community Meeting currently growing. All ex- there is a desire to un- isting access will be main- initial plan dertake tree planting tained, notably the core 8/10/2018 across Balnagown Es- paths, with gates through tates which is widely the deer fence provided. demonstrated already, Following the com- however there have not ments from the Com- been planting schemes munity Council meeting, at Ardgay until now. the proposed planting The proposal is that the has been amended to poorer ground on Poplars significantly increase the Farm, on and around Ju- open ground adjacent to bilee Hill, will be enclosed houses and that no Scots by deer fencing and Pine trees will be planted planted with native tree within 70 metres of any- species, largely Scots Pine one’s house. on the eastern side of the ue to enjoy the views. < and Birch whilst also pro- In addition, no plant- summit of Jubilee Hill so Chris Gordon, Balnagown tecting the existing natu- ing of trees will take place that people can contin- Estate Manager Page 8 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News Community Council meetings Winter road maintenance over the next few months In Ardgay, the following Morning Routes Mon- As reported in previ- We can however use day to Sunday will apply: A836-A837: Ardgay - In- ous newsletters, our funds from Windfarm vershin - Craggie - via Culrain - Ardgay Side roads, budget from the High- Community Benefit to al- and A836-B9176: Ardgay - Struie - Ardross - Ed- land Council for the year low us to meet to consid- derton - Ardgay Side roads. 2018-19 has been greatly er applications to Beinn It should be noted that all routes cannot be treat- reduced. We are now in nan Oighrean and Be- ed at the same time and the routes are designed to the unfortunate posi- inn Tharsuinn Commu- ensure that, as far as resources allow, Primary and tion that costs for our nity Benefit funds. Our Secondary routes are treated by the target times. meeting in December next meeting to consider Other routes will be treated as resources allow. will have reduced our applications will be on Note that just because a gritter has been through Administration budget the 11th February 2019. in front of you does not mean the road is safe – the to zero. This means that Please note that unless salt needs the mechanical action of traffic to break we can no longer hold our financial situation is it down and dissolve it to allow the resulting brine regular meetings until resolved, this will not be mixture to melt the ice. This also applies to roads the next financial year. a public meeting. < that have low traffic volumes.< ardgay & district community council: Betty Wright, Chairperson, silvia muras, Vice Chair, Marion turner, Treasurer & Secretary, rob pope, andy wright, DR BUSTER CRABB (Co-opted member), leslie pope (Associate member), mary goulder, Minute Secretary how to contact councillors north, west & central sutherland ardgay & district community council Linda Munro 8, Munro Place, Bettyhill KW14 1TD Tel 01641 521 366 [email protected] By phone By post Kirsteen Currie Rowanwood, Lamington, Kildary, Invergordon 01863 766 100 (Marion Turner, Secretary) IV18 0PE Tel 07787 221 572 [email protected] Hugh Morrison Orcadia, Lerin, Durness IV27 4QB By mail Tel 07557 566 543 [email protected] Marion Turner, Secretary A&DCC Oldtown, Ardgay IV24 3DH msps Caithness, Sutherland & Ross Gail Ross M5.13 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP Email Tel 0131 348 5927 [email protected] @ [email protected] Donald Cameron M2.18 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP Tel 0131 348 6989 [email protected] Website John Finnie MG.16 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP www.ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil.org.uk Tel 0131 348 6898 [email protected] Rhoda Grant MG.06 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP Facebook Tel 0131 348 5766 [email protected] Ardgay & District Community Council Edward Mountain M3.18 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP Tel 0131 348 6143 [email protected] Drop-in Sessions Douglas Ross M2.08 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP We will be holding clinics from 1 to 4 pm at the Tel 0131 348 6140 [email protected] Ardgay Stores on the following dates: MG.05 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP 12th JANUARY & 9th FEBRUARY David Stewart Tel 0131 348 5766 [email protected] Please stop by for a cup of tea/coffee and chat. Maree Todd M4.05 The Scottish Parliament Edinburgh EH99 1SP In person Tel 0131 348 5784 [email protected] Ardgay Public Hall, at 7 pm. Next meeting: 11th FEBRUARY mp Caithness, Sutherland & easter Ross If you are planning to attend, please contact us Jamie Stone House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA in advance to confirm it will be a public meeting. Tel 01862 892 726 [email protected] ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 9

Ardgay & District News

(Right) A rotary screw trap used to capture smolts migrating downstream. Below, an Atlantic Salmon parr (top) and smolt (bottom).

Where are the missing salmon? Salmon have been in the news this year, branded as ‘missing’. For every 100 salmon that go to sea only five return. This species is in decline, and a new £1m project aims to find out why.

Salmon have an “anadromous” life Salmon Trust recently launched we understand the causes of mor- cycle, they are born in freshwater “The Missing Salmon” project. tality, it is hoped that efforts can and migrate to the sea to feed (off Running over three years, fish then be directed at these causes the coast of Greenland) before from 7 rivers in the Moray Firth to try and reverse the decline in eventually returning to freshwa- will be captured during their sea- the salmon population. This does ter rivers to spawn. These extraor- ward migration and fitted with not replace the important work dinary fish undergo major chang- acoustic tracking tags, and re- that fishery boards, landowners es to their body in a process called leased to follow their journey to and other stakeholders do, such “smoltification” as they prepare to the North sea. as habitat restoration, but should go from fresh to salt water. Their Listening stations will be placed supplement it. body becomes more “torpedo” along the rivers to detect fish as If you are interested on volun- like, they silver in color and their they pass on their migration, as teering or would like more infor- gills prepare for the challenge of well as across the Dornoch and mation please visit our website. going from fresh to salt water. Moray Firths in large arrays. This Finally, we would like to extend a This stage of their journey is filled should tell us how far out these huge thank-you to all those who with danger; from predators such fish make it on their migration have fundraised and contribut- as trout, cormorants and seals, and will tell is where fish are being ed towards purchasing acoustic fish can also be impacted by heat- “lost”. Kyle of Sutherland Fisher- tags and receivers for this pro- waves and barriers to migration, ies will be trapping smolts from ject. < Sean Robertson, Kyle of and loss of habitat. the Oykel and Shin for this pro- Sutherland Fisheries, Science and This migration to sea and back ject. Once we know where these Mitigation Officer is the stage of the Salmon’s life cy- fish are “dropping off the map”, cle that around only 5% survive. the project hopes that we can Kyle of Sutherland Fisheries However, we don’t know where look at those areas in more depth ) 01863 766 702 they are being lost, or what is driv- to figure out why there is such a www.kylefisheries.org ing this. This is why the Atlantic high mortality of this fish. When * [email protected] Page 10 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News the second phase that went live in november covers Rosehall, Altass and achnahanat Second phase of Superfast broadband goes live in the Kyle of Sutherland

Highland Wireless in partnership with the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust are delighted to announce that a superfast broadband service is now available in the remote glens in the Kyle of Sutherland. Earlier in the year, Highland Wireless launched the first phase of its high-speed unlimited data usage broadband service (up to 50 mbs), in the area surrounding Bonar Bridge and Ardgay, including Culrain. The second phase of the service, which ‘went live’ on Wednesday 14th No- vember extends to Rosehall, Altass and Kyle of Sutherland. Highland Wireless will continue to expand their coverage into Strathcarron. In the early part of Cameron Warren from Highland Wireless (left) and Ron Bothroyd from the Kyle of 2019 they will bring online at least Sutherland Development Trust. two further transmission stations sion, Balnagown Estates and local which will take the signal as far as Ron Boothroyd has volun- landowners who have been very co- possible, expanding the coverage teered to assist Highland operative in helping us secure these where the majority of the residen- Wireless in getting transmission sites. Residents in the tial houses are and into the upper coverage areas will now be able to part of Strathcarron. the broadband project enjoy superfast reliable broadband. Ron Boothroyd who is on the up and running This will ensure that people are board of directors of the Kyle of able to make the most of online ser- Sutherland Development Trust said, the Trust purchased the equipment vices whether this be for business “Residents of communities such as which it is leasing to Highland Wire- or residential use.” Altass where I live have had to put less who is delivering and managing For more information or to up with terrible internet connec- the service across the area. Although book a survey, visit the Highland tion speeds that just don’t meet up people have to pay for this service Wireless website: www.highland- to 21st century life! More and more – they may be eligible to submit a wireless.co.uk< Kirstin Langlois, services such as banking are done ‘BDUK’ Government Grant Vouch- Marketing Officer online these days - but the internet er application to assist them with speeds that many households expe- the installation costs.” KoSDT The Trust Offices, rience in some parts of Sutherland Cameron Warren, from High- Dornoch Road, Bonar make it difficult to run businesses or land Wireless added, “For the past Bridge IV24 3EB even just stream films… few months we have been working ) 01863 766 190 Recently the opportunity to work to secure transmission sites, which * [email protected] in partnership with Highland Wire- can provide best coverage across @KOSutherland less came about, and thanks to a the Kyle of Sutherland. We would grant from the SSE Beatrice Fund, like to thank the Forestry Commis- Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 11

Ardgay & District News Festive Season at the Bradbury Centre There will be lots to do and celebrate at the Centre in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.

There has been a lot happening at the Bradbury since our last news up- date in the autumn edition. We have had the Royal Bank of Scotland in giving a talk about scam issues, we have had Telecare in educating the clients about alarms, sensors and equipment that is available which would allow clients to live more in- dependently at home. Thanks to Liz we had a nice haul of fresh vegetables grown in our very own garden. We have also had a large donation of apples from the local community which we are very Bradbury Centre clients at their Halloween party. grateful for. Thanks to everyone for very generous donation from one of weeks over the festive period and selecting us in the Tesco blue tokens our former clients Nancy Macdon- will re-open on Monday 7/01/2019. in Tain, we came third. We have also ald (previously of Ardgay). This then There has been so much going on opted to have SSE priority services leads us on to the news that we have at the Bradbury it is simply too much registration forms in the centre so now had confirmation of funding for to write in this one article so to keep why not pop in and collect a form or the extension of the Centre and we up to date with what is happening check if you are eligible. hope that the work will be carried why not follow us on Facebook.< A great day was had by all when out in 2019. We have several up- Lorraine Askew, Manager we had our Halloween party where coming events: clients enjoyed taking part in some l 19/12/2018 – Christmas party The Bradbury Centre classic games such as dooking for l 21/12/2018 – 11 am : Carol ) 01863 766 772 apples and Doughnuts on a string. service at the Bradbury centre. All www.bradburycentre.co.uk We had our AGM on the 2nd of welcome *[email protected] November. The Centre has had a We will then be closed for two Bradbury Centre

CAB: Charitable Support volunteer needed

We are looking for help continuing changes to the cost of living. In the tration fees and fuel debts with accessing and apply- the welfare system, de- past we have helped peo- but increasing demands ing for grants and charita- lays in benefit appeals ple to apply to trusts such on our service mean we ble support for people in and increases in the cost as the British Gas Energy are reaching more people need. Full training will be of living have put an even Trust, The Royal Society in greater need but have provided and the role will greater strain on people for the Support of Wom- less resources to be able involve finding charitable all year round. We are en of Scotland, SSAFA, to help them apply for grants and help for our cli- looking for help to allow and Hospitality Action further charitable sup- ents in need and applying us to support people in for help with living costs, port.< Rhionna Mackay, for this support on their accessing charitable sup- new white goods, seques- Manager behalf if necessary. port to help them heat Finances are always their homes, replace run East & Central Sutherland Citizens Advice Bureau tighter for people in the down white goods and ) 01408 633 000 run up to Christmas but generally better afford * [email protected] Page 12 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News

accounts of the first year of your community hall and its users Ardgay Public Hall 50th anniversary

The Ardgay Hall Minute Books tell us that after a public meeting in February 1966 it was agreed to Who was using the hall in 1967? build a new public hall in Ardgay. In the Hall’s archives we found the following notes: By July 1967 the plans had been fi- “The new Hall Utilization Sub-committee had drawn up a list of local organisa- nalised with architect Mr. Robert tions and had appointed representatives for them as follows: l Girl Guide Group: Capt. G. Richardson Beaton, Golspie; with tenders be- l Boy Scout Group: Miss A. MacDonald ing sent out in September that year l W.R.I.: Mrs S. Mackenzie for a start date in January 1968. By l Mothercraft Classes: Nurse Shilleto June 1968 the minutes show the l Badminton Club: Mr Innes MacGregor committee were discussing finish- l Dramatic Society: Miss N. Ross l Football Club: Mr J. Fraser ing details and by October that, l Film Club (also “although not absolutely com- Highlands & Islands: Capt. G. Richardson plete, the building would be ready l Pipe Band: Mr I. Wilson for the first function, a concert and l Scottish Country Dancing: Mrs N. MacDonald dance, to be held on 15th. Novem- l Church of Scotland: Rev. I. McEwen ber 1968… it was decided that the Organisations at present in formation: l Revival of Social Club: Mr Ian MacGregor and Mr W. MacLaren official opening ceremony of the It is also hoped to have a Rifle Range in the new Hall.” < new hall should be held on 21st ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 13

Ardgay & District News

Support your Hall: commemorative mugs and bags

The Hall committee has produced commemorative mugs and tote bags to mark this date. These were for sale at the Christmas Fair in No- These extracts appeared in The vember. All profits from the sale Northern Times at the time of the of these items will go towards the new Hall opening, including adverts Hall’s funds. There are still some for opening night, the first dance, available. If you would like to show and the first concert held at the Hall. your support please phone 01863 766 174 to get yours! <

Ardgay “new” Hall had its official opening ceremony on the 21st December 1968. Since then, it hasn’t stopped serving the community and hosting a fair number of local groups and organisations, many of which still gather at the Hall today.

December 1968.” The extracts re- hall users, and that the 2018 user ning of the hall. So, if you would produced in these pages show the group list also includes the Ardgay like to help to make sure the hall is Northern Times contemporary Christmas Party committee; Ard- here for future generations to en- 1968 reports. gay & District Community Coun- joy, please, don’t wait to be asked, The hall records also show cil; Central & East Sutherland just come along to any committee that back in the 1960s there were Citizens Advice Bureau; Ladybird meeting they are always advertised enough community volunteers Club, the bi-weekly Post Office ser- on the village notice boards and on on the hall committee for several vice; Tai-Chi and various regular the hall Facebook page. sub-committees to be set up, shar- recreational and educational ac- As well as wishing each and every ing out the work load and enabling tivities organised by both the Kyle one of you a Happy and Peaceful the ongoing, day-to-day business of Sutherland Development Trust Festive Season, the committee are of the old hall to continue whilst and Lairg Learning Centre. pleased to report that this year’s the huge task of building the new The only unfortunate thing is Christmas Fair at the hall, realised a one was completed. that today there are only six com- fantastic profit of £872 for hall funds. It is pleasing to note that today mittee members endeavouring to Thank You.< Rhonwen Copley, of these original hall user groups ensure the ‘new’ hall continues to Secretary the SWI, Badminton, and Scottish be fit for purpose and every one of Country Dancing clubs and the them would welcome more com- LIke us 0n facebook! Church of Scotland are still regular munity involvement in the run- Ardgay Public Hall Page 14 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News the teas team has been on the road delivering workshops across sutherland Home energy advice Carbon Literacy training Autumn into winter with The Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust’s Energy Advice Ser- vice (TEAS) has been one of supporting, encouraging, listening and empowering.

Both Arabella (Project Officer) and Pat (Project Assistant) have been on the road across Suth- erland supporting clients with home energy advice, providing practical and affordable solutions to reduce their home energy use, cut fuel bills and carbon emissions. Do call our team if you would like any assistance regard- ing your home energy usage or to set up a free and impartial home energy visit, particularly with the winter ahead. Call 01863 760050 Launching our Climate community Library which will head north and west with the or email arabella@kyleofsuther- Highlife Highland Brora Mobile Library in December. land.co.uk. ministered by Keep Scotland Lynn (Education Assistant) Beautiful, encourage us to learn has been running various engage- alongside our community to cre- ment workshops to connect how ate actions and changes which activities, such as reducing home will support targets at a local, na- energy usage, can have an impact tional and global scale. Our work- against carbon emissions and cli- shops all hope to connect with the mate change. Discussing the pro- public on their ideas, hopes and ject Lynn explained: “Our funders fears about our current impact on at Climate Challenge Fund, ad- climate change.” <

Community Engagement

Community Engagement activities in Assynt, Mel- ness-Tongue-Skerray and Ardgay and District have now concluded, and the Community Engagement Team are currently putting the finishing touches to Community Plans which have resulted from the en- gagements in each of these Community Council areas. They have also begun initial engagement activities in Durness, Edderton and Scourie and are working closely with organisations in these communities, promoting the questionnaire and preparing for the follow-up workshops. They also recently visited Tain Royal Acad- emy to conduct a workshop with pupils who live in the communities in the Kyle of Sutherland so that their voices can be reflected in the Ardgay, Creich and Ed- derton Community Plans. < Community Engagement event in Ardgay Hall. Bonar Bridge Post Office SERVICES AVAILABLE: ardgay & district community Council newsletter Cash deposits and withdrawals via chip and pin Postal services Beth simco is ‘young apprentice of the year’ Post Office© card account Postal orders Kyle of Sutherland Development Moneygram Electronic bill payments Trust employee wins a prestigious E top-ups Pre-order travel money Highland Business Award Car tax Euro and US dollar currency Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust employee Beth Simco from Bonar Bridge has scooped the ‘Young Apprentice of the Year’ award at the Highland Ardgay Stores & Business Awards. The annual awards organised by Highland Café Inverness Chamber of Commerce were held at a ceremony at the Drumossie Hotel in Inverness on the 28th Septem- ber 2018. This year over 100 entries were received across the twelve cate- gories, presenting the judges with an enormous task of narrowing down the OPENING TIMES: Thursday 7am-9pm final shortlist. Monday 7am-8pm Friday 7am-8pm Tuesday 7am-8pm Saturday 8am-8pm Beth Simco began her career at the Wednesday 7am-8pm Sunday 8:30-7pm Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust by doing volunteer work experience when she was still at school. She for- mally began working for the Trust in September 2017 when she was offered ARDGAY & DISTRICT the post of Contracts Officer. She is now studying a Community Council newsletter Business Management degree at Strathclyde Univer- sity through a new Graduate Level Apprenticeship Advertising Tariff initiative designed to allow students to study whilst  Design available Contact us to get a quote working at the same time. <  Get help with sizes & ﬁ les Great discounts if  Reach 100% of your target you book for  Boost your business for less the whole Helen Houston announced year! Full Page Book for the whole year as the winner of a Social size A4 (4 issues) and get £10 discount! Enterprise Champion Award £40 £160 £150

At Scotland’s annual awards for innovation and suc- Half Page Book for the whole year size A5 - landscape (4 issues) and get £5 discount! cess in social enterprise awards ceremony in The Scot- £20 £80 £75 tish Parliament, Helen Houston, the former manager of Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, 1/3 Page Book for the whole year was awarded the accolade of Social En- size A5 - portrait (4 issues) and get £3 discount! £20 £80 £75 terprise Champion (over 26) for her out- standing work with the Trust and other 1/4 Page Book for the whole year Highland organisations over the years. size A6 - portrait (4 issues) and get £2 discount! Commenting on her award, Helen £10 £40 £38 said: “I’m delighted to have been ac- Module Size 100 mm x 55 mm knowledged for my community develop- Smallest size The whole year will cost you ment work during the last 25 years. (…) £5 ONLY £20! Next Having recently stepped down from my edition: role at the Trust I am now looking for- 15th ward to new challenges whatever they March may be - time will tell.” Pete Campbell, the Chairman of Kyle BOOKING & of Sutherland Development Trust said, “We are abso- ENQUIRIES: lutely delighted that Helen’s hard work has been ac- Silvia Muras knowledged in these awards and we wish her the very 01863 766 690 best in her plans for the future.”< [email protected] Page 16 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News History of farming in Ardgay

Poplars Farm, Ardgay, 1950s. Alister MacLaren and William MacLaren, unloading hay. / © ian mackenzie

Farming has evolved immensely in the last 200 years. Sheaves, stooks, ricks and manual threshing were gradually improved and finally replaced by the modern combine harvester. The following photos show the evolution of grain harvesting at some of the local farms.

The grain harvest in 2018 was com- The Reaper yard. The corn-rick is later broken pleted in record time as a result of the In 1826 in Scotland, the inventor down and the sheaves threshed, to crops ripening early after the hot dry Reverend Patrick Bell designed a separate the grain from the straw. summer. The modern combine har- reaper machine -which used the vesters were able to work night and scissors principle of plant cutting– a The Binder day -if conditions allowed- to gather principle that is still used today. The reaper was later replaced by in the crop and complete the harvest The reaped grain stalks were the binder which would also gath- in some cases before they were able to gathered into sheaves, tied with a er the crop and tie it into sheaves. start in previous years due to inclem- twist of straw. Several sheaves were Early binders were horse-drawn, ent weather, an indication how far then leant against each other with their cutting and tying-mecha- the improvements in farm machin- the ears off the ground to dry out, nisms powered by a bull-wheel. ery have progressed in the past 200 forming a stook. Later models were tractor-drawn hundred years when all the harvest- After drying, the sheaves are gath- and tractor-powered. Binders have ing and threshing was done by hand. ered from the field and stacked, be- a reel and a cutter bar like a modern Before modern-day harvesting ing placed with the ears inwards, grain head for a combine harvester. machines were developed, agricul- this is called a stack or rick. Ricks The cut stems fall onto a canvas bed tural workers had to harvest crops are made in an area inaccessible to which conveys the cut stems to the 8 using hand-tools such as: livestock, called a rick-yard or stack- (Continues on page 18) ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 17

Ardgay & District News

(Left) Binding oats at the Poplars, Ardgay, 1930-33 / © ian mackenzie. (Right) Stackyard at the Poplars, 1930s © ian mackenzie

(Left) Stackyard at Ardgay Farm (connected with the old Balnagown hotel) in the 1940s. Left to right are Fergie Macleod (Balnagown hotel owner) holding on to his nephew Neil Anderson, Hugh Macgregor, Miss Heap, Sinclair Coghill, Jock Mackenzie (Dounie), David Mackay (postmaster). / © donald brown. (Right) Alister and Peter MacLaren, and Ian Scott, binding oats in the late 1950s © ian mackenzie

Stooks drying at Ardgay Farm, 1950s. The farm buildings can be seen where Carron Place now stands. The large roof behind the sheds on the far right of the photo is the old Ardgay Hall. / © donald brown. (Right) Edward Laing sitting on his binder. / © gregor laing Page 18 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News

(Left) Alister MacLaren and William Dunbar loading sheaves at the Poplars, Ardgay. / © ian mackenzie. (Right) A harvesting scene: stooks and sheaves waiting to be stooked in the field above the road overlooking Western Fearn Farm from 1971./ © gregor laing

(Starts on page 16) small one was the “Tiny” hand mill of 8 binding mechanism. This mecha- STACK (OR RICK) George W. Murray, of Banff Found- nism bundles the stems of grain and SHEAVES: the ears were ry. There is still one in the barn of a ties the bundle with string to form always up to shed the water Strathcarron croft.

a sheaf. Once tied, the sheaf is dis- Near the base, In his firm’s catalogue of 1878, he charged from the side of the bind- the sheaves described his “Tiny” No 1 hand mill. were almost er, to be picked up by the ‘stookers’. horizontal. Made entirely of iron, he stated that Considered a huge step forward, the At the top, ROOF it was ideal for tropical countries as almost binder reduced the arduous task of vertical it would neither warp nor rot in the manually cutting, gathering and damp heat, nor be eaten by termites. binding the crop Murray’s No 1 “Tiny” thresher was designed as a crofter’s mill, the cost The Threshing Mill in 1878 being £6.10/- for the basic

A threshing mill or thresher is a ft 8-10 machine. In 1949 the Strathcarron piece of farm equipment that re- crofter converted his hand mill to 5 ft moves the seeds from the stalks be driven by a Lister petrol engine and husks. It does so by beating the although it has been many years plant to make the seeds fall out. since it’s been in use. Before such machines were developed, threshing was done by hand The Combine Harvester with flails: such hand threshing was STONE Three long sticks Binders and threshing mills con- FOUNDATION placed as a tripod very laborious and time-consum- to keep the crop gave support from tinued to be used well into the ing, taking about one-quarter of o the soil the inside 20th century and it was not un- agricultural labour by the 18th cen- til after WW2 that combine har- tury. Mechanization of this process ical and reaper/binders gradually vesters become more widely used. removed a substantial amount of became widespread and made grain As the name implies the binder- drudgery from farm labour. The first production much less laborious. ing and threshing were combined threshing machine was invented A crofter had neither the room nor into one operation, further reduc- circa 1786 by the Scottish engineer the buildings to put in a large mill, ing the labour requirement on the Andrew Meikle and the subsequent nor the money. They had to make do farms. Since the 1950s the develop- adoption of such machines was one with what they could afford, and the ment of the combine harvester has of the earlier examples of the mech- invention of a small hand-threshing been rapid into the sophisticated anization of agriculture. During the mill would have been a great step machines capable of ever great- 19th century, threshers and mechan- forward from the flail. The earliest er output per day. < Gregor Laing ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 19

Ardgay & District News

Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust have project managed the re-development The Embo Trust are handed the keys to ‘The Old School Embo’ The new hub, which was designed by Tain based practice Blueprint Architecture, will house the Embo Community Grocers and Post Office, a café, meeting room, and a community hall.

November was an excit- Development Trust who ing month for Kyle of have project managed Sutherland Development the redevelopment of the Trust’s Contracts team. building on behalf of The An external project that Embo Trust. they have been coordi- The new hub which is nating this year to re- in the centre of the village develop The Old School overlooking the sea, will Embo was handed over house the Embo Com- to their client The Embo munity Grocers and Post Trust. Office, a café, meeting ‘The Old School Embo’ after re-developed. Embo Primary School room, and a community closed its doors to pupils hall which can be hired in 1982. It had been used out for events, weddings, as a community centre and other activities. An until 2008 but had fallen operator will be appoint- in to a state of disrepair ed to run the café in 2019. Local and has been lying empty Valerie Houston from since then. In 2012, High- the Kyle of Sutherland land Council transferred Development Trust said, mini digger ownership to the Embo “We are really proud to Trust for the nominal sum have been part of this of £100 on the condition fantastic project and we’d hire that it be used by the like to thank our clients community. Following the Embo Trust and pro- Most ground work catered for, this the Trust consulted ject partners for helping with local people to find to make the project build ditching, trenching, out what their vision was run so smoothly.” foundations material handling, for the vacant building. There will be an open It was felt that the close- afternoon for people to rock breaker for knit community needed a explore the building on stubborn boulders, place where locals could Saturday 1st December concrete etc, 3 tonne meet up and socialise but from 12.30-3.30pm. also welcome the many The Project was fund- rubber track machine visitors that flock to Embo ed by: The Embo Trust, ideal for sites each year. The Big Lottery, The with restricted access. Morrison Construc- Highland Council, High- tion started working on lands and Islands Enter- site in March this year prise, SSE Beatrice Fund, and on the 12th Novem- Leader, SSE Sustainable Phone Dave ber, they handed over Fund, Robertson Trust, the keys of the building The John Gordon Legacy to the Kyle of Sutherland and Carbon Clever. < 07860675194 Page 20 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Ardgay & District News Remembrance Sunday 2018 Bonar Bridge was the centre of the WW1 centenary commemorations organised by the Cre- ich and Kincardine Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland on Remembrance Sunday.

The day began with the Branch Chairman Tony Osborne playing Reveille on the bugle at 6am outside Creich Church. Piper Chris Bowden then played Battle’s O’er and led a march round to Creich War Memo- rial. In the early morning mist this was a memorable way to start what would be a very moving day. Later the traditional wreath laying services were held at the Kincardine and Creich War Memorials, with a very large turnout at both locations and the silence at 11am. School children read the names of the WW1 fallen and planted crosses. Legion Scotland and Community Council wreaths were laid at both memorials. At Bonar Bridge, wreaths were also laid by a serving member of the RAF, Scotland’s Fire and Rescue Service, Highland Councillor Lin- da Munro, the 1st Kyle of Suther- land Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Unit, the Inverness Military Wives Choir and the Rotary club. A very well attended service at Creich Church followed, with (Top) The service at Creich War Memorial. (Bottom left) The Creich Church congrega- Graeme Muckhart as Minister. tion. (Bottom right) Celebrating at Bonar Bridge Community Hall. Over 100 invited guests - vet- erans, Legion Scotland members The hall looked stunning, deco- filled the upstairs room and includ- and families - then enjoyed a WW1 rated with a Union Jack theme to ed model planes, genuine trench themed lunch in the Community mirror events that would have been art and a morse code key. Hall. Green split pea soup was fol- held 100 years ago to the day. Fab- After a rousing rendition of Auld lowed by corned beef hash, pork ulous 5ft by 4ft banners had been Lang Syne everyone returned to cassoulet and lentil dahl. A ceilidh created from poppy themed posters the War Memorial for the unveil- followed with the music provided produced by every child from Bo- ing of the Centenary Field plaque by Rogart Ceilidh Band. nar, Gledfield, Rosehall, Lairg and and lighting of the bonfire. Events During the tea break, the Sing- Rogart Primary Schools. closed with the piper playing High- ing for Fun choir led a singalong of There but Not There Silhouettes land Cathedral and the bugler the WW1 tunes. A 1918 recipe fruit cake were placed on pews in Church, on Last Post. A very moving end to an was served along with WW1 era tast- several seats in the Hall and with incredible day, funded by grants ers such as Anzac biscuits and pota- the Band, as a very poignant re- from the Ardgay and Creich Com- to shortbread. And children played minder of the fallen throughout the munity Councils from their Beinn traditional games like conkers. day. An excellent WW1 exhibition Tharsuinn windfarm funds. < ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 21

Ardgay & District News

‘best use of timber’ and ‘placemaking’ Falls of Shin wins two awards at the Inverness Architectural Association Awards

On the 2nd November 2018, the Inverness Archi- tectural Association (IAA) which is the Highlands & Islands Chapter of the Royal Incorporation of Architects Scotland, held its prestigious biennial awards at Eden Court Theatre to celebrate and recognise the projects that have that have en- Creich War Memorial Garden hanced the landscape and identity of the region becomes a Centenary Field between 2016 – 2018. The IAA ‘patch’ covers the entire Highlands and Islands, including Lochaber Highland Councillor Linda Munro unveiled and Moray. the plaque on Remembrance Sunday. Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust was delighted to have two of its building projects: Falls Legion Scotland are Fiona Porter, Branch of Shin Visitor Attraction and The Barn in Ar- partners with the charity Secretary of the Creich dgay, shortlisted at the awards. On the evening Fields in Trust in deliv- and Kincardine Branch, – Falls of Shin won the ‘Best Use Of Timber’ and ering an ambitious pro- thought that the Creich ‘Placemaking’ awards, and was Highly Com- gramme called Cente- War Memorial Garden mended for ‘Best Building’. Meanwhile ‘The nary Fields. Launched by in Bonar Bridge would Barn’ was Commended in the ‘New Life for Old Fields in Trust President make a great Centenary Buildings’ category. The Duke of Cambridge, Field. She contacted the Both buildings were designed by Catriona Hill the programme is remem- landowner of the site of Ardgay based practice CH Architecture. Catri- bering the sacrifices made and worked with them ona Hill commented: “The quality of the entries by so many during World to get the site designated this year was so high that it was humbling just War 1 whilst looking to as a Centenary Field. to be shortlisted in the awards – but to win the the health and well-be- She said “I am delight- ‘Placemaking’ and ‘Best Use of Timber’ catego- ing of future generations. ed that we have managed ries was particularly meaningful because they By protecting local green to include the Garden in were so pertinent to the Falls of Shin site.” spaces with connections this national programme Meanwhile -after winning best building in to WW1, it is creating a to remember the sacri- the Tourism and Leisure category of the Scottish nationwide legacy in this, fices made by so many RICS Awards earlier this year- Falls of Shin is the centenary of that war. during WW1.” < also going head to head with the other regional winners at the national Grand Final in London. Poppy appeal Wish them luck! < The Ardgay and Bonar Bridge communities together raised a record £1,559.59 in this year’s Poppy Appeal. The Area Organ- iser, Fiona Porter, thanks everyone who do- nated, the local businesses and schools that had collection boxes and all the volunteers who went out collecting door to door. <

Fiona Porter Secretary * [email protected] ) 01863 766349 Catriona Hill of CH Architecture collected the awards. Page 22 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter KEEP ACTIVE TOGETHER (KAT) WEEKLY ACTIVITY PROGRAMME

Ardgay & District News JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019 How to apply for Community Awards MONDAY Small projects projects under under £250 £2,000 Singing For Fun 7pm-8.15pm The Beinn nan Oighrean Windfarm Awards The Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL FREE l Go to Ardgay & District CC website: Community Benefit Fund (Excluding 28th Jan and 11th Feb)

www.ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil.org. l Go to http://ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil. uk where you can find full details and download org.uk to download the guidelines and applica- the application form. tion form. Music Practice Group 7pm-9pm l Send your completed application form to l Send your completed application form to BONAR HALL FREE secretary@ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil. [email protected] and to secretary@ CINEMA ROOM org.uk ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil.org.uk (Commencing 21st Jan) l Next deadlines: 11 February & 8 April 2019 l Next deadlines: 11 February & 8 April 2019

between £2,000 between £2,000 TUESDAY and £10,000+ and £25,000+

SSE Achany Community Fund E.ON Rosehall Community Fund Ballroom/Latin 2pm-4pm l Visit the fund’s page http://sse.com/communi- l Foundation Scotland administers E.ON Rosehall ROSEHALL VILLAGE HALL £2 ties/fundlocations/achany/ for more info and to Community Fund. Visit https://www.foundation- download the application form. Please note that scotland.org.uk/programmes/eon-rosehall.aspx for there are two different forms: £2,000-£10,000 and details. You can apply online or download the ap- Latin Cardio Fit 7pm-8pm £10,000+. plication forms (£2,000-£25,000 and £25,000+). BONAR BRIDGE PRIMARY £2 l Complete and return to fiona.morrison@sse. l Alternatively, you can contact Eilidh Gunn by email com or by Royal Mail to: Fiona Morrison, Corporate [email protected] or call 07801 530 Affairs, SSE, 10 Henderson Road, Inverness, IV1 1SN 218 if you require any further information or advice. l Next deadline: 30 April 2019 l Next deadline: 30 April 2019 WEDNESDAY Badminton 10am-12pm Directors sought for High Life Highland Board ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL FREE

High Life Highland is port to its management employability, older people’s issues, a charity registered in team. Applications are partnership working and tourism Scotland and a compa- welcome from people would be particularly welcome. The ny, limited by guarantee, with a good track record positions are unpaid but reasonable wholly owned by The in business or commu- expenses will be available. FRIDAY Highland Council. Its ambition is to nity management with experience Anyone interested has until 5pm be recognised and respected as the of working as part of a board or sen- on 28 January 2019 to submit their Yoga 10am-11am BEINN THARSUINN COMMUNITY leading organisation for developing, ior management team of a charity or application. Interviews will take ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL £2 WINDFARM LTD. promoting and inspiring opportuni- other large organisation, experience place on 21 February 2019 and the ties in culture, learning, sport, leisure, of leading a team within a company appointment will be confirmed at health and wellbeing. or community organisation as well as the 7 March 2019 Highland Coun- www.facebook.com/keepactivetogether T:01863 766190 E: [email protected] The Council is looking to recruit knowledge of the cultural, learning cil meeting. For an application pack Directors to the Board to provide stra- and/or leisure sector in the Highlands. please contact Ms J Maclennan Keep Active Together (KAT) is funded by the Scottish Government. It is part of the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, which is a company Limited by tegic direction and governance to the An interest and/or experience in rep- on 01463 7021121 or e-mail jane. Guarantee Scottish Registration:SC401019 & Scottish Charity:SC043587. VAT registration number: 251 4030 5 charity and expert advice and sup- resenting young people’s views, health, [email protected]. < Registered office: The Trust Office, The Barn, Drovers Square, Ardgay, Sutherland, IV24 3AL

KEEP ACTIVE TOGETHER (KAT) WEEKLY ACTIVITY PROGRAMME JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

MONDAY Singing For Fun 7pm-8.15pm ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL FREE (Excluding 28th Jan and 11th Feb)

Music Practice Group 7pm-9pm BONAR HALL FREE CINEMA ROOM (Commencing 21st Jan)

TUESDAY

Ballroom/Latin 2pm-4pm ROSEHALL VILLAGE HALL £2

Latin Cardio Fit 7pm-8pm BONAR BRIDGE PRIMARY £2

1 WEDNESDAY Badminton 10am-12pm ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL FREE

FRIDAY

Yoga 10am-11am BEINN THARSUINN COMMUNITY ARDGAY VILLAGE HALL £2 WINDFARM LTD.

www.facebook.com/keepactivetogether T:01863 766190 E: [email protected]

Keep Active Together (KAT) is funded by the Scottish Government. It is part of the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, which is a company Limited by Guarantee Scottish Registration:SC401019 & Scottish Charity:SC043587. VAT registration number: 251 4030 5 Registered office: The Trust Office, The Barn, Drovers Square, Ardgay, Sutherland, IV24 3AL

Page 24 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Letters to the editor

Do you have a strong feeling about something you read? Do you want to share your opinion or point of view? Send your letters to [email protected].

Winter Resilience bury centre had lists Plan for the Kyle of of drivers and resourc- Winter resilience: answer from Sutherland es which could be used the Bradbury Centre during emergencies to I am bringing this to your get those at risk into the At this time we don’t have a date for moving attention as our commu- Bradbury Centre where out of the centre, a contractor has not been nity leaders and as other they would be warm, fed appointed and when they are appointed, they concerned members of and cared for. may say we can stay until the break through of the public. Just a quick I was informed that this the building. note to register my con- is not the case, and any- We are looking at options for generators cerns, and to make you way the Bradbury Centre at this time with the assistance from SSE. aware that, to the best is due to close for around It is important that the SSE emergency of my knowledge - there 20 weeks for refurbish- forms (please see below) are completed by does not seem to be a ment and upgrading. the members in our community who would Winter Resilience Plan Where does this leave need help. As far as I am aware not many in place for the Kyle of the vulnerable members have been completed, and I am only able to Sutherland. of our communities? ensure my clients have done this. Perhaps I had thought that the Please discuss this with this is something that could be looked at. Bradbury Centre was anyone you think is rel- We should know by mid December if we are our nominated location evant and come up with moving out before spring. Wherever we go, for emergencies like loss a plan to be circulated to we would hope to still be able to help with of electricity during sev- those in danger during transport and food as in the past. Nothing er weather, for our el- these emergencies. has changed in this respect.< derly and infirm. I also Thanks. < Lorraine Askew, Bradbury Centre Manager thought that the Brad- David Hannah, Ardgay

find out if you are eligible Scottish & Southern Electricity Network’s free Prior- ity Service offers extra help to those who need it most How to apply to be included during a power outage. Some reasons you might want in the SSEN Priority to be on the register: l you are deaf or hard of hearing Service registry l You are disabled l You have children under the age of five at home l You are blind or partially sighted l You are chronically ill l You rely on powered medical equipment l You are over 60 The service offers a Priority Services line available 24 hours a day, safety advice tailored to your needs, connection to local emergency services, provisions for your community during severe weather events and prolonged power outages, emergency power supplies, and a security password to keep you safe. If you’d like to register for Priority Services, even if only temporarily, please call SSEN on 0800 294 3259 or visit www.ssen.co.uk/priorityservices. < ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 25

Letters to the editor Concerns over Croick Church

past & present These two photos are taken from the same angle. Over the years, the trees around the church have overwhelmed the building. / © callum campbell Disappointed visit tion, being totally over- of glass, how very sad. done and a branch or whelmed by the trees. Also, the roof is start- worse, a tree, falls down All I can say is how much I could not believe the ing to sag. Surely destroying the windows? I had been looking for- state of the windows with there must be money If I was a local, I would ward to seeing Croick the infamous inscriptions available somewhere be doing my utmost to Church with all its his- on them. The windows through either herit- make sure this is not al- tory for the first time now have rotten sills, age or lottery funds lowed to happen.< last summer, but how people had at some time to restore the church Calum Campbell, disappointed I was in its vandalised them trying to its former glory. Esslemont Estate, Ellon, appearance and condi- to steal some of the panes Imagine if nothing is Aberdeenshire

Without trees In this image probably from late 1800s or very early 1900s, there were no trees at all around the building. Dr Coutts, minister at the Manse (probably around 1910s-1920s) planted all the trees we see nowadays. Two specimens have a impossible aerial view As we can see on the image above, special significance, as it is said that the two trees at either the church building is almost impossible to capture in a photo, side of the gate came from Holy Land. < © margaret ross even with the help of a drone. / © gregor laing Page 26 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

What’s on in the area

ARDROSS COMMUNITY HALL, 7:30 PM 23 Scottish Opera Touring FEB. Join four talented singers and a pianist for Scottish Opera’s ever-popular Opera Highlights tour. The expertly curated selection of music celebrates the best of opera, including extracts from Carmen, La traviata and Die Fledermaus and ardgay public hall works by Mozart and Tchaikovsky. 31 Hogmanay Sessions Tickets: 01349 880591 (free) or dec. with Inyal + Heisk online on: https://www.ticketsource. co.uk/ardrosscommunityhall (booking fee) £12 and £5 Under 26 Organised by Sutherland Sessions. From 10 pm to 1 am. £20.00 Tickets for sale at www.eventbrite. co.uk. Electronics and twisted beats combine with intricate fiddle and pipes. With their innova- tive fusion of mercurial tunes, ethereal songs and intricate electronics, INYAL have crafted a sound that owes as much to their traditional roots as it does to the rhythms of modern Scotland. The event is licensed. Entry includes a complimentary beer or glass of prosecco. Over 18s only. until novar, dingwall

sutherland sessions - EDDERTON HALL 31 Charity garden opening 16 Mike Vass: Save His Calm dec. Water gardens have been renovated and FEB. replanted since the last garden opening. There is a new Mike Vass presents ‘Save His Calm’ with sup- terrace garden. Five acre walled garden, rhododendrons port from Calum McIlroy, Megan MacDonald and Ruairidh and azaleas. Newly planted apple orchard. By arrange- Gollan. One of Scotland’s foremost musicians is returning ment. Times vary / £6 (Children free). More info: enquir- to Edderton Hall performing his remarkable new song [email protected] / scotlandsgardens.org/novar/ cycle. Mike Vass, previously a nominee in the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) award and winner in the Scots ardross community hall, 8 pm Trad music awards composer of the year category, is a creative force of nature on the Scottish music scene. 19 Raffle | Baking | Tea/Coffee. Tickets: £10/£8 online at Mairi Campbell: jan. ruairidhgollanmusic.eventbrite.co.uk or on the door. Auld Lang Syne

Auld Lang Syne is the new one-woman theatre show from Scottish musician Mairi Campbell. Auld Lang Syne tells a very human story through her personal relationship with the world-re- nowned Scottish song. Tickets: 01349 880591 (free) or https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ ardrosscommunityhall (booking fee) £10 and £8 conc. ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 27

Wildlife

n Pine Martens are mustelids (members of the weasel family) and have a long, slender body with dark brown fur, Pine Marten a white/yellow throat patch, and a bushy tail. n They weigh MARTES MARTES about 1-2 kg and they are 45cm plus a tail of 25cm, about the size of a small cat. n They’re largely nocturnal and elusive. They can sometimes be more visible in winter when there’s less vegetation. n They are protected. Scotland is the species stronghold, with only a very small number left in England and Wales. n Pine Martens climb very well and live in holes in trees, in old squirrel dreys or old birds’ nests. n They hunt a range of small mam- mals, as well as taking birds and their eggs, and berries. n In the summer, bilberries might make its droppings turn blue. n Research has suggested the presence of pine martens can be beneficial for the endangered red squirrel. More info: scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk and woodlandtrust.org.uk

Bonar Bridge Gaelic Playgroup Croileagan a’ Chaolais All Welcome. Free entry Thistle welding & 12:30 uNtiL 2:30 PM (donations fabrication every terM tiMe friDay welcome) Library visits, Gaelic Bookbug, Lunch Gaelic related crafts, and messy play. All light welding and fabrication included projects undertaken. Dates for your Diary Contact Auto restoration and repair performed 21th December: Christmas Party for more to high standards. 8th february: info:- Zoe Mac & Cheese family Bingo Night Bonar Bridge Hall - 4-6 pm 07749 134 490 Hours: 0830 - 1630 (Mon - Fri) 0900 - 1300 (Sat)

07496 908 143 Page 28 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Adult Clubs & Societies

Creich & Kincardine Kyle of Sutherland Art Group Whist Club Meets in Bonar Bridge Hall tearoom on Wednesdays Bonar Bridge Hall. Wednes- from 10 am to 3 pm. All wel- days at 7:30 pm, Admission £2 Ardgay Scottish come. Contact: Doreen Bruce Sutherland including tea. Drives: Country Dancing ) 01863 766 852 Walkers Club 23 JAN Ardgay Scottish Country Dancers. Club Kyle of Sutherland We meet the 4th Sunday of 30 JAN Ladybird Club. New Season starts on Tues- Cinema Club the month, all year round. 6 FEB Ardgay-Culrain SWI. day 8th January at 7.30pm 27th january Dornoch, 13 feb Heritage Society. in Ardgay Public Hall. £2 Bonar Bridge Hall, 7:30 pm. Embo and Coul Links. 8 20 FEB Four Seasons Club. per session or £20 for the Film nights every 2nd and miles, circular, good paths 27 FEB Royal British Legion season until 30th April. If 4th Friday of the month. and beach. Option for Scotland, Creich & Kincar- Tuesdays are difficult for Free admission / £2 Refresh- self-guided shorter walks of dine Branch. you there is another class in ments. Contact: Silvia 4 and 6 miles. Leaders: Jon 6 MAR Gledfield School Clashmore Hall from 7 pm Facebook: Kyle of Sutherland and Jayne Jenkins : 01862 Parent’s Council. on Mondays. Cinema Club 810 382. The walk starts from 13 mar Bonar Bridge Chil- Contact: David Hannah ) 01863 766 690 Dornoch Square at 10 am dren’s Christmas Party ) 01863 766 061 24 FEBRUARY Loch Laoigh, [email protected] Kyle of Sutherland Loch Lannsaidh, Ben Tarvie : Pilates Joggers 270m / 885ft. 6 miles, circular, Ardgay Badminton some rough heather. Option Bonar Bridge Hall, Mondays Club Facebook page: Kyle of for self-guided shorter walk 10-11 am. Contact: Moira Sutherland Joggers omitting Ben Tarvie. Leaders: Chisholm At Ardgay Public Hall. Contact: Jean Mezzetti: 01862 810 ) 01862 810 786 ADULTS: Monday evenings, Elissa ) 07743 228 661 422 and Steve Farquharson: 8 - 10 pm £2 per night. Naomi ) 07818 482 341 01862 811 381. The walk starts Edderton & District Thursday evenings Catriona ) from the Scottish Water Filter 07929 886 105 Gardening Club 8 - 10 pm. £2 per night. Station at 10 am. Contact Gregor Laing Kyle of Sutherland 6th march AGM 7:30 pm First Monday of each month. ) Golspie Community Centre Edderton Community Centre, 01863 766 223 Growing Group JUNIORS: (P4 upwards): Contact the Walk Leader the 7:30 pm. Thursday evenings at Ard- Meetings last Monday of the day before the walk to confirm 4th February: Quiz night. gay Hall, 7 - 8 pm. £1, start- month at Invershin Hall from that it is taking place. 4th march: Guest speaker ing on 4th October. 7-9 pm. all aspects of grow- New members and walk JayJay Gladwin from Old Al- Contact Patricia Hannah ing fruit, vegetables and leaders are always welcome. langrange Garden. Members ) 01863 766 061 flowers, including garden- Contact: David Hannah receive 50% discount on Sut- Racquets may be borrowed, ing for wildlife. ) 01863 766 061 tons seeds and 10% discount and players of all abilities are Contact: Jean Facebook: Sutherland at Scotsburn Garden Centre, welcome. Alternative ses- ) 01863 760 190 Walkers Group as well as enjoying friend- sions by KAT, Wednesdays ly meetings once a month. 10 am - 12 pm. Ardgay & Culrain Kyle of Sutherland Contact: Patricia ) ) 01863 766 702 SWI Heritage Society 01863 766 061 Bonar Bridge All ages welcome. SWI With Bonar Bridge History Tai Chi Ardgay Golf Club meetings on the 3rd Tuesday Group. Tuesdays 7:30 pm at each month. Ardgay Public the Heritage Centre, Ardgay. Ardgay Public Hall. Market Stance, Migdale Hall 7:30 pm. Contact: Valerie Monday 2:30 pm £2 Road, Bonar Bridge. Contact: Mrs Gillian Glennie Mackenzie-Harris Contact: Angela ) 01863 766 199 ) 01863 766 674 ) 01863 766 700 ) 01549 421 336 ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 29

Gearrchoille Community Wood

We have been progressing work on the boardwalk hoping to make the route around that corner of the wood reasonably mud-free over the next few months. We have also started birch thinning – revisiting an area near the car park. It’s worth taking your time when walking through the wood – there’s always so much you nearly miss. There are lots of signs of hidey-holes used by the smaller residents in the wood and working in the wood we often find traces of past activity – in the area we’re currently thinning there are more signs of the route of the old drove road and an old swing well camouflaged. The pond and surrounding area has made a remarkable recovery after the work of the summer – it’s good to see the sluice overflowing again. Winter in The environmental audit that we had done several years ago suggest- the woods ed that the oak trees were exclusively Quercus petraea (sessile or durmast In the last months oak = acorns without stalks) and not we’ve been busy with Quercus robur (pedunculated oak = acorns on long stems). Over the the boardwalk and years we have collected and sown birch thinning a lot of acorns some of which have been planted off-site and now have grown into young trees producing acorns. And those acorns definite- ly have stalks. I wonder if some of the larger trees in the Gearrchoille, whose acorns are collected after they have fallen are in fact Quercus robur. Do they produce more and bigger acorns? I have noticed this year that the oak trees along Strathcarron have produced masses of acorns (with stalks) compared to those in the Ge- arrchoille which were smaller in size and number. Something to investigate next year. < Betty Wright

gearrchoillecommunitywoodardgay.org.uk *[email protected] )01863755316 (Top) An old swing well camouflaged. (Bottom left) Quercus petraea or Quercus Gearrchoille Community Wood robur? (Bottom right) Our volunteers working on the boardwalk. Page 30 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Children & Young people Gledfield Primary School

< Anne Wemyss, Clerical Assistant, Gledfield Primary School halloween costumes The pupils had fun dressing up for school on the 31st October for Halloween.

remembrance The pupils made some fantastic poppy displays to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of Word War 1.

MEET HAMISH THE TARTAN DRAGON A shy veggie dragon who lives on Carn Bren

by Andymack & Sil

It was very frosty and a small shallow pond froze over. Morag board under the stairs. Hamish tried to walk on the ice, but decided to go skating, she found some old skates in the cup- fell flat on his tummy, and they both found this very funny. COMMUNITY FOOD STOP

Healthy Cooking on a Budget Classes LET’S COOK TOGETHER FOR UNDER A FIVER! The recipes are based on cooking for a family of four but can be easily adapted. Let’s cook together and have some fun. All recipes are cooked from scratch, using fresh ingredients, with recipe cards, including costs, available to take home. Thursday 10th January – Thursday 28th February 2019 (block booking) 10am until 12 noon Ardgay Public Hall

If you are interested in joining us, please book your place by contacting Andrea - 01863 766190, [email protected] www.facebook.com/keepactivetogether T:01863 766190 E: [email protected]

Churches Christmas is coming

Christmas is coming and as a child I sources to splash out on special food, remember it as a really exciting time. drink and presents for all the family. For some time before the big day, I The Trussell Trust food bank network hardly slept a wink as I looked forward in the UK handed out around 41,000 to all the hoped-for toys, the Christ- food packs in 2009/10 rising to 1.2 mas decorations, the Christmas food million in 2016/17. In 2017 High- and the exciting buzz of Christmas it- land Foodbank (part of that network) self. We lived in Sheffield at the time fed over 6,200 people from across and the main shopping street was the Highlands, distributing some 50 wonderfully decorated with coloured tonnes of food. lights. One of the highlights was to while. One in twenty adults in Scot- As we make our plans for Christ- be taken for a drive along that street, land have contact with family, friends mas, we can spread our joy and ex- to marvel at the spectacle of it all. As or neighbours less than once or twice a citement by remembering those less an adult I still find Christmas exciting week and three times that figure have fortunate than ourselves. We could but in a different way. We quite often fewer than three people they feel that include a neighbour who lives alone have relatives visit at some point over they can turn to for comfort and sup- in our celebrations or we could buy a Christmas and, once the business of port in a personal crisis. Loneliness few extra items to donate to the food Church Services in a variety of loca- and social isolation are a very real and bank when we’re out shopping. Both tions is over, it is good to have time to growing problem. of which could make such a differ- relax with family and friends. Over the years the spending on ence in the lives of others. By such Christmas is not a happy or exciting Christmas has grown. The retail actions we are sharing our joy and time for everyone, There are many in industry has persuaded us to start excitement of the festive period and our communities who have no rela- spending earlier and earlier and to reducing the number of people who tives, or are estranged from those that dig deeper and deeper. But of course feel excluded from it or worse still, they have. It’s a sad fact that there are it’s not like that for everyone. There dread it. I wish you all a very happy many people who don’t get the oppor- are many in our society who cannot Christmas, however you spend it. < tunity for even a brief conversation afford the basic necessities of an or- Rev James Currall, Episcopal Priest with a friend or neighbour once in a dinary week, let alone having the re- in Charge of Dornoch, Tain and Lairg

Christmas with the Kyle of Sutherland Churches of Scotland and the East Sutherland & Tain Episcopal Church lChristians Together singing refreshments, donations to Creich Parish Church, Bonar lChristmas Day Eucharist at Carols at the Kyle of Emmaus. Bridge. FRI 21 Dec at 1:30 pm St Maelrubha’s Lairg (in Lairg Sutherland Hub. TUES 11 Dec lGledfield Primary School lFamily Service Kincardine CoS) TUE 25 Dec at 8:15 am at 5:30 pm Christmas Service in Kincar- Church, Ardgay. SUN 23 Dec lChristmas Day Sung Eucha- lChristmas Carol Singing in dine Parish Church, Ardgay. at 11 am. Christingle service rist at St Finnbarr’s Dornoch. Creich Church, Bonar Bridge THUR 20 Dec at 11 am lChristmas Midnight Sung TUE 25 Dec at 9:30 am SAT 15 Dec at 3 pm lCommunion and Fellow- Eucharist at St Finnbarr’s lChristmas Day Sung lCarols by Candlelight at ship at The Crask Inn. THURS Dornoch. MON 24 Dec at Eucharist at St Andrew’s Tain Ardgay Hall. SUN 16 Dec at 20 Dec at 12 Noon – Com- 11 pm TUE 25 Dec at 10:30 am 3 pm –fun for all including munion Service and lunch in lRosehall Christmas Eve lCarol Service at The Crask community carol singing, the bar. candle-lit readings & carols Inn. THUR 27 Dec at 2 pm activities for the youngsters lEdderton Primary School MON 24 Dec at 11:15 pm lCarol Service at St Andrew’s and tasty treats. Christmas Service in Edder- lChristmas Midnight Sung Tain. FRI 28 Dec at 3 pm lThe Joy of Christmas at St ton Parish Church, Edderton. Eucharist at St Andrew’s Tain lNew Year Joint Service for Finnbarr’s Dornoch. TUES FRI 21 Dec at 11 am MON 24 Dec at 11:30 pm the linkage in Creich Church 18 Dec at 7 pm – carols Bonar-Bridge Primary lCreich Watchnight Service Bonar Bridge. SUN 6 Jan and poetry, followed by School Christmas Service in MON 24 Dec at 11:45 pm 2019 at 11 am ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 33

Guide to local services

Village Halls & Mobile Library Bonar Bridge Train times Venues for hire Recycling Centre GLEDFIELD, CULRAIN From 09/12/2018 to 18/05/2019 carbisdale Ardgay Public Hall ¨ Monday: 1 pm - 4:30 pm inverness è ardgay Fiona Venters / 01863 766 602 20 December 2018 tuesday: 1 pm - 4:30 pm Monday to Saturday: [email protected] 10 January / 31 January 2019 wednesday: Closed 07:00 (08:33) Catering serv. available 21 February / 14 March 2019 The Hub thursday: 8 am - 12 pm 10:41 (12:05) Catering serv. available Gledfield School 9:30 10:40 8 am - 12 pm Jan Burdett / 01863 769 170 friday: 14:00 (15:29) Catering serv. available Gruinards 10:55 11:10 saturday: 9 am - 1 pm [email protected] The Craigs 11:30 11:50 17:12 (18:39) sunday: Closed Kincardine Heritage Centre Corvost 11:55 12:10 18:31 (20:01) Catering serv. available Valerie Mackenzie-Harris / Braelangwell 13:15 13:30 Cornhill 13:40 13:55 Sunday: 01863 766 700 Culrain 14:10 14:45 17:56 (19:23) Catering serv. available Ardgay Church Hall Mr & Mrs Charge 14:55 15:10 Post Office Ardgay ardgay è inverness Wester Badarach 15:20 15:40 Mary Stobo / 01863 766 868 Ardgay Public Hall Monday to Saturday: Housebound service 16:00 16.30 tuesday: 14:30 - 17:00 Croick Church 06:14 (07:43) thursday: 13:00 - 16:00 [email protected] edderton - ardgay 06:43 (08:12) Bonar Bridge Community Hall 19 December 2018 Post Office 09:07 (10:35) Catering serv. available Sally Thompson / 01863 766 883 9 January / 30 January 2019 Bonar Bridge 10:54 (12:26) Catering serv. available Bradbury Centre 20 February / 13 March 2019 monday: Closed 15:30 (17:02) Catering serv. available Lorraine Askew / 01863 766 772 Ardvannie 13:00 13:25 tues: 8:30-13:30 / 14:00-17:30 18:52 (20:13) Catering serv. available Invershin Hall Oakwood 13:40 14:00 wed: 8:30-13:30 / 14:00-17:30 19:28 (20:57) Elissa Steven / 01549 421 369 Ardgay Hall 14:10 15:10 thur:8:30-13:30 / 14:00-17:30 Housebound 15:15 15:35 fri: 8:30-13:30 / 14:00-17:30 Sunday: Rosehall Hall 8:30-13:30 / 14:00-17:30 Arabella 16.30 16:50 SAT 14:49 (16:16) Catering serv. available Ann Malone / 01549 441 345

D D D D D D D D D D D D D D

D Anna Patfield D Dog Behaviourist & Trainer D D D Pawsability D Photocopying Prices D www.PawsAbility.co.uk ® D May 2017 D D

Dog Behaviour Help Black and White D D A4 single sided 15p A4 double sided 20p Dog Training A3 single sided 20p A3 double sided 25p D Puppy Training & Early Learning D

Colour Copies D Prevent puppy problems arising with puppy early D learning and puppy socialisation & training. A4 single sided 25p A4 double sided 35p D Sort out lead pulling and jumping with your dog. D A3 single sided 35p A3 double sided 45p Or resolve more complex behaviour problems from D aggression to separation issues or barking. D Laminating A4 60p D Group Workshops D A3 £1 Group workshops on various topics – Reactivity, Nutrition, Puppies, Aggression etc. Details at D D www.pawsability.co.uk/workshop Price on request for bulk copying. D D

D For more information please see D www.PawsAbility.co.uk D or call 07906 173993 / 01863 760004 D

D D Free On-Line Help & Advice pages. PLUS www.facebook.com/kyleofsutherland.Development Trust. Telephone: 01863766190 Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust is a company Limited by Guarantee Registered in Scotland: SC401019 and a registered Scottish charity: SCO43587. Registered office: The Trust Offices, Dornoch D D Road, Bonar Bridge, Sutherland, IV24 3EB D D D D D D D D D D D D

Page 34 = WINTER 2018-2019 ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Guide to local services

B L Stagecoach Bradbury Centre Bus Bradbury Centre LIBRARIES 01863 766 772 Bonar Bridge Libray 67 - mon to sat 920 - tuesday BUSES 01863 760 083 TAIN èLAIRG Bonar Bridge to Dornoch via Spinningdale Bradbury Centre Bus Mobile Libraries Tain Lamington St Tain Lamington St 1 2 2 01863 766 772 01349 852 698 06:45 07:00 08:32 11:48 Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge 08:00 10:11 09:27 14:42* Cherry Grove Cherry Grove Stagecoach Highlands N 13:11* 15:45 17:271 17:42 09:40 10:20 3 3 13:30 14:20 01463 233 371 NHS 16:30 18:45è 17:57 20:12 Edderton Edderton è Spinningdale Spinningdale C Doctors Creich Surgery Layby at Post Box Layby at Post Box 06:551 07:102 08:222 11:38 CAB Golspie 01863 766 379 09:48 è 10:12 08:10 10:20 09:17 14:32* 13:38 14:11 01408 633 000 Nurses Creich Surgery 13:20* 15:55 17:171 17:32 3 3 Clashmore Clashmore

CHURCHES 01863 766 237 16:40 18:55è 17:47 20:02 Carnegie Hall Carnegie Hall è

Ardgay Hall Ardgay Hall è 09:54 10:06 Church of Scotland Migdale Hospital 13:44 14:05 01863 766 868 01863 766 211 07:071 07:222 08:102 11:26 08:22 10:33 09:05 14:20* Dornoch Sq Dornoch Sq Scottish Episcopal Church P 13:32* 16:07 17:051 17:20 10:00 10:05 13:50 14:00 01862 881 737 PHARMACY 16:523 19:07 17:353 19:50 D Mitchells Chemist Bonar Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge 920 - wednesday 07:101 07:252 08:072 11:23 Bonar Bridge circular to Dornoch DVLA Inverness 01863 760 011 08:25 10:36 09:02 14:17* via Spinningdale, Tain & Edderton 0300 790 6801 POLICE 13:36* 16:10 17:021 17:17 3 3 Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge E Non Emergency: 101 16:55 19:10è 17:32 19:47 Cherry Grove Cherry Grove ELECTRICITY Emergency: 999 Invershin Invershin è 09:30 14:40 POST OFFICE 07:151 07:302 08:022 11:18 Spinningdale Spinningdale Power Cuts 08:30 10:41 08:57 14:12* Layby at Post Box Layby at Post Box 105 Post Office Bonar Bridge 13:41* 16:15 16:571 17:12 09:38 14:31 01863 766 219 17:003 19:15 17:273 19:42 Clashmore è Clashmore SSE Customer Help Carnegie Hall Carnegie Hall 0345 026 2658 PRIMARY SCHOOLS Lairg Post Office Lairg Post Office 09:54 14:19 Gledfield 07:271 07:422 07:502 11:00 F Tain Tain è 01863 766 580 08:42 10:55 08:45 14:00* Bus stop at Co-Op Bus stop at Co-Op Fire Brigade Dornoch 13:57* 16:29 16:451 17:00 10:02 14:08 Bonar Bridge 3 3 01862 810 297 17:12 19:29 17:15 19:30 Tain Tain 01863 766 221 1 2 Lamington Street Lamington Street Fisheries Trust (KoS) 00:00 Mon-Fri when Academy is open. 00:00 Mon-Fri when Academy is Closed. 00:00 Mon-Sat 10:04 14:06 Rosehall 3 01863 766 702 00:00 Mon-Fri 00:00*Does not operate on Fri- Edderton Edderton 01549 441 348 days when Academy is open. Saturday only. Forestry Commission 00:00 10:17 13:53 Edderton 01309 674 004 Ardgay Ardgay 01862 821260 10:39 13:33 G Stagecoach R Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge-Ardgay Golf 167 - MON TO FRI Cherry Grove Cherry Grove Recycling Centre Bonar 10:42 13:30 Club lairg èdornoch 01349 868 439 Operates every Tuesday and 01863 766 199 Lairg Lairg Football Ground Football Ground Wednesday apart from Christmas

S è H and New Year weeks. Scottish Water 24Hr 07:31 16:42 Highland Council Invershin Invershin The minibus has a wheelchair lift

Emergency è Customer service o/s Hotel opp Hotel which will be available as part of 0845 600 8855 07:39 16:34 the service. 01349 886606 Customer Help Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge Bookings: 01863 766 772 Drummuie Golspie Post Office Post Office 0845 601 8855 01408 635 370 07:46 16:29 è T Ardgay Ardgay Service Point Dornoch opp Ardgay Hall o/s Ardgay Hall Ronnie’s Taxis Ardgay è Mobile Banking 01862 810 594 07:49 16:26 01863 766 422 Tain Registration Office Ardgay Ardgay Royal Bank of 01349 886 644 trains o/s Ardgay Hall opp Ardgay Hall 07:59 16:16 è Scotland High schools National Rail Enquiries Bonar Bridge Bonar Bridge Tuesday

0845 748 4950 è Tain Royal Academy o/s Police Station o/s Police Station Bonar Bridge War Memorial 08:02 16:13 01862 892 121 V Arrive 12:05 Depart 12:20 Spinningdale Spinningdale Dornoch Academy VETS o/s Post Office opp Post Office 01862 810 246 Rogart Vets 08:10 16:05 è Bank of The Hub 01408 641 352 Clashmore Clashmore Scotland Telephone Kiosk Telephone Kiosk 01863 769 170 Easter Ross Vets Tain è Tuesday 01862 893 142 08:19 15:56 K Dornoch Dornoch Bonar Bridge War Memorial KoS Development Trust Johnston & Farrell Tain Cathedral Square Cathedral Square Arrive 10:00 Depart 12:00 01863 766 190 01862 894 223 08:27 15:40 ardgay & district community Council newsletter WINTER 2018-2019 = Page 35

Puzzles Sudoku Easy Medium Hard

A number may not appear twice in the same row or in the same column or in any of the nine 3x3 subregions.

Crossword Across 4. (Heraldry) The leg of an animal (especially a lion) as represented on a coat of arms. 5. (Scottish) A coin of low value.6. In a way that it is impossible to disentangle or separate. 8. A young salmon distinguished by dark rounded patches evenly spaced along its sides. 10. A dance in triple time performed by a couple, who as a pair turn rhythmically round and round as they progress around the dance floor. Down 1. (Two words) The summit of

Ardgay Hill is commonly referred to / eclipse crosswords.com A&DCCN as... 2. A tropical fruit shaped like an elongated melon, with edible orange flesh and small black seeds. 3. One side of something many-sided, especially of a cut gem. 7. Look or gaze in a lascivious or un- pleasant way. 9. A full-length, sleeve- less outer garment worn by Arabs.

Solutions can be found at: www.ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil.org.uk 01863 766 231

MOTs on cars and bikes, welding, tyres, servicing, diagnostics and much more... Balance Bike & Pedal Bike sessions Main dealer warranted servicing Starting Saturday 19th January 2019 for a 6 week block Hours of business: Monday to Thursday 8:30 - 5:30 In addition we will also be offeringb ike friday 8:30 - 4:30 saturdays by appointment only Maintenance sessions running alongside these sessions. Perfect for keeping your/your child Contact us on Facebook: Ardgay Garage bike in tip top condition! These sessions will be run by Chris at Heaven Bikes. Further info will be on the Invershin Hall’s Facebook page and on posters locally.

Family Ceilidh

January/february (date tbc)

Board Games afternoon January/february (date tbc)

ardgay & district community Council newsletter

Editor: Silvia Muras Sanmartin ardgay & district community council: Betty Wright (Chairperson), Silvia Muras (Vice Chair), Design & Layout: Silvia Muras Graphic Design Marion Turner (Treasurer / Secretary), Rob Pope, Andy [email protected] Wright, Dr Buster Crabb, Leslie Pope. Contributors to this issue: Andymack, Lorraine Askew, councillors: Linda Munro, Hugh Morrison, Kirsteen Donald Bain, Calum Campbell, Rhonwen Copley, Currie (More details on page 8) James Currall, Chris Gordon, David Hannah, Patricia Hannah, Gregor Laing, Kirstin Langlois, Rosemary Next Edition: 12th march Logan, Juliette Lowe, Rhionna Mackay, Fiona Porter, COPY DATE: THIRD WEEK OF february Sean Robertson, Margaret Ross, Marion Turner, David Watson, Anne Wemyss, Betty Wright. www.ardgayanddistrictcommunitycouncil.org.uk Distribution: Rhonwen Copley, Brigitte Geddes, Advertising, letters & contributions: David Hannah, Jockie Hewitt, David Knight, Teresa 01863 766 690 Langley, David Mackay, Silvia Muras, Davy Ross, Bob [email protected] Sendall, Jeannie Sparling, Anna Sutherland, Marion Turner, Vicky Whittock, Iain Worthy, Betty Wright. Facebook: Ardgay & District Community Council

Published with support from the E.ON Rosehall Community Fund and The Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm Community Limited.