March 2015 Sponsored by I

THE ROTHESIAN

March 2015 Sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons Issue No 69

I. Fraser & Sons, Electrical Engineers & Contractors

The late Ian Fraser and W.R. Main commenced business as Electrical Contractors in the name of Fraser and Main in 1962, at 93 High Street, Rothes, and moved to its’ present address at 42 High Street in 1963 The partnership was dissolved mutually after some years, and I. Fraser & Sons came into being, and es- tablished a robust reputation in the early years, working predominantly in the Whisky Industry. After Ian’s sudden death in 1976, Mrs Evelyn Fraser, with the help of of some senior employees, decided to continue in business. In 1983, Mark joined the family business after serving his time as a mechanic, and re-trained as an elec- trician, and in 1990, entered into partnership with Mike Wall to continue with the successful business his father and mother had built up. The business diversified into contracting at this time for the MoD and various building contractors, and earned a reputation for quality workmanship, and completing contracts on time and budget. Operating from our base in Rothes and Gran- town, serving local areas and beyond, we are continuing to expand and deliver quality workmanship on all aspects of electrical work, be it domestic or industrial. Now a third generation has joined the business, with Mark’s son Sam now in his third year of apprenticeship. With so much interest in whisky, and the ever growing influx of visitors to the area, Mark saw an opportunity for Executive Hire to cater for the many VIPs visiting various distilleries, and in 2013, Speyside Executive Hire was formed. The business has gone from strength to strength in this short period, with regular contracts for Glen Grant, Diageo, Glenfiddich and Chivas, along with wedding hires within the Moray and Speyside areas. We currently operate 2 Mercedes S Class and a Mercedes Viano 7-seater, and offer very competitive rates for any occasion. In 2014, after many requests from various distilleries that required joinery repairs, Mark saw an opportunity to em- ploy a joiner for small works and repairs within distilling and local domestic work. Les Smith joined the business, and with many years’ experience, and a reputation for quality workmanship, has successfully expanded our Client base, and continues to add to the success of I. Fraser & Sons

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] LIVE LOCAL, WORK LOCAL? Donate Your Unwanted Clothes WE NEED YOUR HELP Donate your unwanted Clothes and help us support Rothes Fire Station are reaching out to the community injured Fire-fighters by putting your unwanted clothes, and local businesses in the bid to recruit more retained pairs of shoes, linen and handbags in the clothes bank fire fighters following a drop in their crew num- located at the front of the Rothes Fire Station. bers. The minimum crewing levels for getting the ap- pliance turned out is 4. Carwash Retained Duty System (RDS) Fire-fighters are invalu- able to their communities, providing a fire and rescue The Rothes Fire Fighters will be doing a carwash to service on an 'on call' basis. We are currently looking raise money for the Fire fighters Charity and Natalie for men and women from all backgrounds who can Steele on the 21st March. work in a team, attending a range of incidents including fires and road traffic accidents. Most incidents are over with-in 45 minutes. You will also, from time-to- time, be involved in local community education in the area you live in. THE ROTHESIAN You must be able to respond safely to your preferred station within 7 minutes of being alerted, and you will Coming soon: “rothesian.com”! be expected to undertake training one evening a week, and carry out further training on an occasional basis. In return, you will receive an annual retaining fee of We are finally getting back on-line since losing up to £2,848, in addition to an hourly rate of up to our presence on the Speyside network. We are £13.00 when called out and for performing other role aiming to be at www.rothesian.com by the end of related duties. March, and eventually aim to have full access to Applicants must be 18 or over and in good health. all back issues of “The Rothesian”. Keep your We are taking on contracted hour availability fingers crossed! now whereby someone who only works in Rothes through the day or someone that can give as little as 4 We are looking for sponsors for future editions of hours a day either in morning or afternoon. “The Rothesian”. Those wishing to apply to become a retained fire fight- If anyone wishes to become a sponsor, either per- er can do so by calling 01224 696666 during office sonally, or through their business, please contact hours. If anyone would like to find out more before Pearl Paul for full details. applying or would like more information you can come along to the Rothes Fire Station on a Thursday between 1900-2130, or contact Watch Manager Andy We are also looking to increase our “team” here at Cameron by phoning or texting on 07771 872285. “The Rothesian” since the sad death of Jean Al- lan. There will be a meeting at the Cottage at 7.30 on Free Smoke Alarm Monday, 13th April for anyone who is interested in joining the Rothesian Group. Get your free 10-year smoke alarm fitted by your local Fire-fighters. You can request a free Home Fire Safety Visit, this is where the local fire-fighters come to your home and give you some Fire Safety advice and can fit a smoke alarms for free, if you need any. Our alarms have a 10- year battery too, so you don’t have to spend anything. Don’t wait, request your free Home Fire Safety Visit by texting text "FIRE" to 80800 from your mobile or call 0800 0731 999, or contact Andy Cameron on 07771 872285

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 2 CRAFT CLUB ROTHES LADIES GROUP

Craft Club is up and running for another session on To end our year we celebrated with a very enjoyable Tuesday nights from 7pm-9pm in the café area of the home grown Christmas Buffet, a visit from Santa and Grant Hall. some fun and games. We are a friendly group and welcome all who wish to We brought in 2015 with our annual visit to Eden come along with their latest craft projects. We can Court and Aladdin which was excellent. We complet- offer advice and tips to help you. Tea and coffee is ed the day with high tea. provided. All this only cost £4 a session, so why not Traditionally in January we were again entertained by dust off that craft kit you’ve been meaning to do/finish Myrtle and Friends which as always was thoroughly and come along. enjoyed by all. For more information please call Claire Smith on Now February we had the talented Mr Alan Butter- 01340 831147. field who explained the intricacies of digital photog- And find us on facebook: http://m.facebook.com/ raphy with lots of very beautiful pictures. Rothescraftclub. We are now nearing the end of this session and finish with our Coffee Morning on May 23rd, followed by a bus outing on June 13th – destination as yet unknown, All we ask is the pleasure of the ladies’ company and a LINNBURN nice dry day. Morag Finlayson Well here are almost through the first quarter of 2015 where does the time go!! (Note the Ladies Group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of On December 18th we had our Christmas party, we all the month at 7.30pm in the Church Hall – look out for had a lovely day which was held in the Church Hall, their notices) we would like to say a huge thank you to Colin for all his work on the day, Irene for providing a beautiful meal and the Merry Minstrels for providing the enter- tainment. DAMSELS IN DISTRESS! We have all taken it easy for the month of January, getting over the festivities, and now we are in the Members of Rothes Horticultural and Industrial Socie- process of putting on our thinking hats planning for ty are over the moon with the result of their recent plea the year ahead. for help to the community. We are having a visit from the Rothes Nursery school In desperation, due to lack of male helpers willing to to participate in an Easter Egg Hunt and competition lend a hand at their annual flower show and fund rais- this takes place on Thursday 26th March 2015. ing events, a mailshot to potential recruits has come up In the meantime keep an eye on our window for our trumps. sales items which have been made by our service users President Dena Cruickshank explains; - “We simply and remember that we have a large range of books for had to do something pro-active and sent a letter to you to pop in borrow/swap and read . people we hoped would agree to help. We ladies real- Everyone at Linnburn wishes you a Happy Easter ized that we simply couldn’t do it all on our own - we needed more willing hands to help us”. Rothes men, Ronnie Anderson, Sandy Cameron, Ray- mond MacDonald, Stuart Paul, Gary Johnston, Bruce GENERAL ELECTION – 7TH MAY Gordon and Graham Jefferson responded without hesi- tation and saved the day. It cannot be emphasised too often, but are you regis- The Sir Galahad’s helped out last Saturday at the Soci- tered to vote? You may think that you are on automati- ety’s popular compost sale. The sale was a sell-out in cally but as the system has changed you may not be. record time. Everyone now has to register themselves. (It used to Their next event will be the annual plant sale and cof- be the head of the household did this job – but NOT fee morning at the Grant Hall on Saturday 30 May. now). It would be pretty awful to turn up on 7th May to Any other gentlemen willing to help these “Damsels in find you cannot vote. Please check now that you are Distress” should get in touch with Secretary, Sheila on the roll, and if not REGISTER. MacDonald on 01340 831449 or by e-mail at DO NOT LOSE YOUR VOTE! REGISTER [email protected]

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 3 FUN DAYTIME & EVENING FITNESS ROTHES BOXING CLASSES In January Megan Gordon travelled to Boras, Sweden Fun Freedom Fitness is running fitness classes in the to take part in the Golden Girls boxing Champion- Grant Hall. Currently, daytime classes are held on a ships. After having to gain 2kg to have a bout at 48kg Wednesday morning. CardioWorks Aerobics at 9.15- (no one entered at her normal 46Kg), she beat the fa- 10.15 am and BodyWorks Circuits at 10.30-11.30am. vourite boxer from Finland, becoming the first Scot- There’s always a great atmosphere in class with a lot tish junior boxer ever to bring back a gold from this of laughter! Exercise is fun! Classes are £5 each with championships. She then continued her winning ways loyalty cards available. a week later by out boxing Jade Dempster from North Evening classes run on Tuesdays for Circuits and Glasgow. Thursdays for Bootcamp. Evening classes run as pre- After losing on a split decision a few weeks earlier paid blocks and a new block starts after the Easter that many thought he'd won, Ian Reid was determined school break. Bootcamp will remain on a Thursday to get a win on his card at the Keith Football Club night. Tuesday night will be either Circuits again or show a couple of weeks ago. Starting fast and using CardioWorks aerobics. Circuits and Bootcamp classes his excellent jab and rear hand he totally dominated allow you to track your progress and see your im- his Inverness opponent, winning by a unanimous deci- provements. Great for motivation and a sense of sion. achievement! Jack Reid has also been on the wrong end of several A Relaxation Class has also been running but in the close decisions and at the Keith Football Club show he Rothes Church Hall on a Thursday morning 9.15 – decided enough was enough! After taking some big 10.15am. This class involves some very gentle exer- shots to the head and body in the first round, Jack cises, some breathing exercises and lots and lots of went at his Peterhead opponent with both fists flying spoiling ourselves! It runs as a short prepaid block. A and knocked his gum shield out of his mouth and onto new block will start during the next school term. the canvas. After several more punches the Peterhead For confirmation of the new timetable following the boxer decided that he had nothing left and retired him- Easter school break or for any further information self, giving Jack his first KO! please check the Freedom Fitness Facebook page or Both Megan and Jack are now in training for the Scot- contact Vivienne 07526 120417 or email: tish Schoolboy and Junior championships held in [email protected]. Glasgow on the 14th & 15th of March. After this date I look forward to seeing you in class! they, along with Ian and Corey Rizza, will be looking at displaying their boxing skills closer to home as The Vivienne Addison Elgin BC has been granted permission to hold the Freedom Fitness Schoolboy, Junior and Youth District Championships at the Grant Hall, Rothes on Sunday the 19 April.

Paul Gordon

CRAIGELLACHIE STAMP

The people of Rothes would like to congratulate the village of Craigellachie on getting the Telford Bridge at Craigellachie included in the new first class stamp collection. It looks tremendous and is a great advert for Speyside.

4 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons ROTHES TENNIS CLUB The floodlighting project is progressing slowly. If the layout is acceptable to the Planning department, at The Grant Hall has been the venue for 9 & Under Mini Moray Council, we will then be able to approach Sport -Tennis since February. Thirty youngsters have been Scotland for a Grant. attending. We meet on Tuesdays 3.30pm – 4.30pm for Our Fund Raising continues. A late coffee morning the Under 8s with the 8-9 year olds coming along cancellation in January saw the club step in to plug the from 4.30pm - 5.30pm. The popularity of the sessions gap. Our next Coffee Morning will be in the Kirk Hall th meant that a third had to be added - on Fridays from on the 28 of March. This is followed on Saturday th 4pm – 5pm. 18 April by a Quiz Night in the Social Club. Our Twelve of the youngsters were involved in a mini- priorities with the fund-raising are two-fold: equip- tennis tournament at Gordonstoun on Sunday 1st ment etc. for Junior coaching and to help meet the cost March. Reece Davies won the group 1 trophy in the of the floodlighting. Mini-Red section (8 & Under) and Jack McConnachie took the group 2 trophy. The others taking part were: The 24 members who opted into the Wimbledon ticket Charlie Anderson, Harley Fairbairn, Alfie scheme are patiently waiting to learn how many pairs McConnachie, Courtney Ness, Archie Scott and Ham- will be made available to the club Once known, a bal- ish Scott. The final of the Orange (9 & Under) compe- lot will be held to decide who will go to the Champi- tition was contested by two Inverness players. The 4 onships. On two occasions in the past we received Rothes entrants – Liam Anderson; Alannah Ayres, Men’s Singles Final tickets There is no guarantee that Keil Laing and Fraser Scott - did themselves proud this will ever happen again. But then … who knows!!! and came away with a medal and a certificate to mark the occasion. Please visit our Web Site: www.rothestc.scot For any information email: [email protected] / [email protected]

ROTHES A

Rothes A would like to welcome their new manager, Jamie Sutherland, to the team this season. Jamie would like to take this opportunity to invite any new, young, and older players along to training on a Sunday at mid-day in the Rothes Park. A club event for the 8 & Unders is to be held at Spey- side High School on Saturday 21st March and an Under For any other information please contact Jamie on 10 competition has been arranged for 22nd March at the 07584 288793. courts Indoor tennis will end just before the Easter Holidays

From Monday 30th March to Thursday 2nd April we STRENGTH AND BALANCE are running coaching sessions courtesy of the Mike Martin Tennis Academy from Inverness. Any parent This group meets on Friday morning in the Kirk Hall who would like their child to take part please contact at 9.45am. With a mixture of seated exercises and Hamish on 831432. there is always a chair for support for the standing The club will be entering teams in the Mixed (Division part. The last class before Easter is 27th March, resum- 2) and Men’s (Division 3) Leagues. It is also hoped ing on 17th April. that a team will compete in the Ladies event. Team captains are Michelle Ness, Eoin Robertson and Jo- hanne Dunn, respectively. Juniors in the Under 14 and Under 12 age groups will be entered in their leagues. Matches for the younger members (Under 10, Under 9 and Under 8) are also planned.

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 5 BALL GROUP

Since Christmas the BALL members seem to have been assaulted by every winter bug going not to men- tion some injuries too, so attendances have been a bit up and down. Despite this we’ve enjoyed a DVD, played Hoy Bingo, made crepe flowers, been entertained by Jim Bartlet and friends, had an entertaining quiz day with Ann Hay and had a knitting bee as well as hearing about the Moray’s War project – Moray’s NATALIE'S GREAT WALL CHARITY contribution to Scotland’s War. There are still several CHALLENGE. weeks to go before the end of this term when we hope to finish with an outing to the Cooperage. Next term starts 14th April. Hi all, We were deeply saddened to start the year with the death of Jean Allan who is greatly missed. Jean was As I'm sure a lot of you are aware by now, I am taking probably our oldest member and one of the ‘founding’ part in a trek across the Great Wall of China in August ladies from six years ago. of this year. I am doing it as part of a small group to raise money for a fantastic charity called Childreach International. The charity aims to make children aware MORAY WALKERS – THURSDAY of their rights and ensure that those rights are being met and focuses on improving a child's access to Every Thursday morning about 10am a group is found healthcare, education and try and make sure that chil- meeting by the post box in the Square. Despite of the dren are safe, healthy and happy. ice and fluctuating weather, short walks have been managed most days before repairing to Simpsons or I held a coffee morning in January and would like to Irene’s for coffee, tea or hot chocolate and a good thank everyone who supported me. I managed to make blether. These are designed for those wanting to get £361.36 which was a great amount to add to my fund- into a walk and are not demanding which means most raising. I would like to thank everyone who came and can manage something as the pace is adjusted to suit spent money and everyone who helped out by donat- the abilities of the participants. If you would like to ing prizes and home-bakes and helping run the actual join, do come along on Thursday mornings. event.

On March 21st the men at the Rothes Fire Service MONDAY WALKERS have kindly offered to help me out in my fundraising by holding a car wash. Come along and get your car There is another group in Rothes who are more ambi- cleaned and help a great cause too! Any support would tious in their walks. They also meet in the Square at be greatly appreciated! 10am but on Monday morning. These will appeal to those who wish a more demanding outing. They usual- I am also going to be holding a quiz at the Seafield on ly finish their walks in the Kirk Hall on Monday the 28th March to raise money. The entry will be £3 a morning for coffee/tea. head and teams can be up to five people. There will be a raffle as well so you have the chance to win some prizes too! LINDA’S KEEPFIT

Thanks for all the support and kind donations so far Linda is on a well deserved holiday on 9th and 16th and I hope to see some of you at my upcoming fund- March and again 27th April. At other times the class raising events. meets at 5.45pm in the Kirk Hall and costs £2.50p

Natalie Steele

6 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons ROTHES GRANT HALL ROTHES BOWLING CLUB.

We have had a brilliantly busy few months of entertain- To improve the playing conditions on the green ment and events on in the hall. It is great to see our beau- the work recommended after a full inspection tifully refurbished building being used. including taking soil profile samples to assess the condition of the under lying root–zone has been We are preparing ourselves for an influx of visitors again. completed. This included scarifying the green in For our last big event in January (AMWF), we had people both directions, verti draining with 13mm tines from Nairn, Aberdeen, Dundee, Burghead, Elgin, Kinloss and applying 40 x 25Kg. bags of Trace Olite and many more places. which was brushed into the tine holes. This work The Grant Hall is fast gaining a reputation as one of the should decrease the thatch and give a firmer, best music venues in the North, where people are assured faster playing surface. a friendly welcome, not just at the hall but local hostelries The bowling club commenced in 1909 and has a too. 50 year lease from Moray District Council which Next up is Davy Cowan and the Storm Chasers, firm fa- commenced in 1984 for the bowling green, pavil- vourites wherever they perform. Last year saw Davy & co ion and store at a rent of £1, per year, but only if perform in Denmark, Germany, Speyfest, the Ironworks asked. Membership of the club is £10 for new and much more. A particularly memorable performance at members, Adults £25 and over 60s £22. The Belladrum Festival in 2013 had the Grassroots tent green opens in the last week in April and it is bouncing. hoped that some new members will come along Just returned from some very successful performances in to keep the club in existence. For more infor- America, Davy is heading to Germany again for another mation contact Innes tel 831244. tour shortly after playing here. The A.G.M. for the outdoor Bowling Club will A very special support act too; Reanna and Sam, two la- be in Rothes FC Social Club, on Thursday dies with incredible voices and beautiful harmonies. 26th.April at 7.00pm. All members and anyone So, put it in your diary, Saturday 28th March interested in outdoor bowling will be welcome. Tickets are available now at www.eventbrite.co.uk £11.00 (no booking fee) Just search for events in Rothes and print your own tick- ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB ets. All you need to do now is look out your dancing shoes The club continues to have a good attendance of and bring your favourite nibbles and drinks. members at hat nights on Mondays, with an aver- age 16 attending, however 6 are from outside Grant Hall Committee Rothes. 36 triples entered the Open Triple Tournament for the Forsyth Cup which was won by David Cambell. Davie Ross and Elizebeth Maitland of Moray B.C. Runners Up were Willie Bell, Fred McDonald and Sandy Dunn from Drummuir IRONING FAIRY! B.C. The semi finalists were Linda Imgram, Ronald Fraser and Kenny Imgram from Dallas B.C. and Carol Hewitt, Jenny Rogers and Arthur Do you hate ironing? Rogers from Rothes B.C. The bowlers appreci- Don’t have time to iron? ate the sponsorship received from Forsyths, Well here is your answer. McKerron & Milne and Glen Grant Distillery, No basket too big, no basket too and thank Rothes F.C. Social Club, and the sup- small, port for the raffle. Ironing Fairy will do it all. The Rothes rink will play in the final of the Banffshire Indoor Bowling Association finals at For more information Craigellachie Village Hall on Sunday 5th April at call or text Hilary on 07584 244498 1.00pm.

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 7 ROTHES GALA TATTIE BOGLES

Just a reminder to everyone who has not yet bought Rothes Community will be holding the tattie bogle their Funbox tickets. Funbox will be in Rothes competition again this year during the Speyside Whis- Grant Hall, on Friday 3rd July, show starts at 5pm. ky Festival. We had lots of visitors last year from Theme will be Fancy dress so please come along as abroad and elsewhere in Moray. The entry slips can be anything you like. Tickets are £12 each and can be picked up from local shops and the Cottage. If you bought from the The Rothes Butchers, Browns are taking part please fill them in and return them to Butchers Aberlour, McIntosh Butchers Dufftown the Cottage. and also from Kool Kutz hairdressers in Rothes. Our judges this year will be Jane and Tony Whitlock We are holding our AGM at 7pm on Tuesday 7th who will be providing a bottle of pinot noir wine from April, in the Cottage. We’d like to invite a repre- the Tattiebogler Winery in Bannockburn, South Is- sentative from each group to join us. land, New Zealand. On their last visit to their daugh- For any further information please contact ters in New Zealand Jane and Tony were surprised to Michelle Ness 07765 353585 find out that a small town near to where they live in New Zealand called Arrowtown do an annual tattie bogle competition. Perhaps we should be twinning with them! We will be awarding prizes to the usual SPEYSIDE GLASS ENGRAVING category winners.

My name is Adam and I am now doing glass engraving by hand for anyone who might be interested. This is an ideal gift for weddings/birthdays / anniversary’s/ Christenings, etc. I can do a variety DECEMBER COMPETITION WINNER of pictures and texts, (no portraits). We have tum- blers in stock from £5 engraved, and wine glasses The picture on the front page of the first Rothesian from £8 engraved. For more information and pho- was Marion Fenton (Munro) and Iain Paul at the 1997 tos of my work please visit Rothes Gala “It’s a Knockout”. www.speysideglassengraving.co.uk, or contact me The winner was John Tilley, North Street. on 01340 831911.

Adam Gilchrist 49 High Street

8 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons Rothes Diary May 2nd May Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club

2nd May Craft Market in Grant Hall, 11-4pm. Re- Please note that the diary displayed in the Simp- freshments available son’s Side Window is updated every few weeks or 4th May Schools closed for May Day Holiday so and takes in changes which occur during the time 9th May Coffee morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – Bowl- between the Rothesian quarterly editions,. Please ing Club keep Sandra informed of events and meetings as 16th May Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Christian Aid fundraising works best with no competition! 16th May Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club Please note the special email address for the diary: 20th/21st May Schools Closed for In-Service [email protected] 23rd May Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Ladies Group If you would like the diary emailed to you, please 29th May Quiz in the Seafield Arms Hotel in aid of contact this address Stable and Able

30th May Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Horticultur- March al Society 21st March Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall –

Ladies Golf June 21st March Car Wash at Fire Station –Childreach 1st June Schools Closed for Local Holiday International th st 4 June SQA Examinations finish 21 March Birthday Party in Rothes FC Social Club th st 6 June Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club 21 March Freedom Fitness Ladies Night in Grant 7th June Sing of Life Summer Concert in Kirk Hall 13th June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall –Speyside 27th March – last Strength & Balance of Term Friendship Group 27th March Schools close for Easter Break 20th June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Kirk 28th March Quiz Night at Seafield in aid of Chil- 20th June Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club dreach International 21st June Fathers’ Day 28th March Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – 27th June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall Rothes Jun- Tennis Club ior Golf 28th March Davy Cowan and the Storm Chasers in

Grant Hall July 29th March Clocks Forward one hour at 2am for 2nd July Schools Close for the Summer Holiday British Summer Time

August April 18th August Schools Re-open after Summer Holi- 3rd April Good Friday day 4th April Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club

4th April Birthday Party in Rothes FC Social Club

5th April Easter Sunday Communion in both Kirks

11th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Church Guild

11th April Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club CRAFT MARKET 13th April Schools Re-open for the Summer Term

17th April Strength and Balance resumes in Kirk Rothes Community Ltd are holding a Craft Market on Hall Saturday 2nd May in the Grant Hall Rothes. 18th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Senior Citi- If you are have crafts you want to showcase please zens contact Irene Shaw on 832 350 or Pearl Paul on 831 th 18 April Tennis Club Quiz in the Rothes FC Social 761. Club Stalls cost £10.00 25th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Gala 28th April SQA Examinations start 3oth April Start of Speyside Whisky Festival

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 9 ROTHES NURSERY THE MOLE CATCHER

We have been very busy in nursery this term! The chil- It was in the summer that he came dren are currently learning all about The Good Samaritan Mr Mole, it is his name and why it is important to be nice to one another. In the garden roon the back Lots of heaps to show his track

Through the chuckies he dug deep Leaving earth heap by heap That every day got mair and mair Ooh my garden, it’s nae fair

Low and behold a few weeks on There was a heap right on my lawn “Oh no I said not on my grass He’ll get a bullet up his a—e !!!!

Roon and roon the edge he went Up and doon, my patience spent A mole man, that is what I need We have also been learning about money and why we Mr Mole he has great speed need it. We visited the local shops to spend some money and the children thoroughly enjoyed their shopping trip. Gogs Grant now is a hunting man Thanks to all the helpers we had on the day to accompany My mole to get, I’m sure he can us up the street. He scratched his head and gave a sigh P6/7 organised a colouring in competition to coincide A trap, I think you need to buy with World Book Day. Mrs Kirk and Mrs Duncan popped over to nursery to announce the winners! A trap was set day in day oot Lots of the children dressed up for World Book Day and But Mr Mole still trailed aboot brought their favourite book into nursery to tell us all Roon by the trap he travelled on about it. We saw some fantastic outfits! And once again he’s in the lawn

Now Gogs is getting rather ratty With Mr Mole he’s going batty He’ll get a deer or mighty stag But Mr Mole he canna bag

Another trap it has been set On catching mole I winna bet Poor Gogs I think it is defeat Pretty soon he’s gan to greet

The mighty Gogs is on his knees Come on mole please, please please Nip into the nice new trap We have recently had a whiteboard fitted in nursery. It is And your little body goes snap, snap, snap a fantastic resource for the nursery and the children are already having great fun using it. We would like to say a It’s Christmas now and moles still here BIG thank you to our parents, families and the Rothes And Gogs poor soul is on the beer Community for supporting the school and nursery and to The hunting trip has been too tough the RSA for helping to organise events to raise the money This bloody mole, I’ve had enough which has enabled us to purchase this fantastic piece of equipment. By Yvonne McConnachie

10 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons NEWS FROM THE ROTHES SCHOOL ROTHES ROVERS

In February a group of pupils went to The Gor- We are training indoors at the Grant Hall. By the end donstoun School to compete in the Gordonstoun Cross of March we should be outdoors, weather permitting. Country Challenge. They performed very well and Since I last wrote, the P6/7s won the Speyside League had a fabulous day out. Mrs MacDonell and Mrs to go with the other cups they won. Graeme and Watson accompanied the pupils and one of the biggest Dougie are well into their first year at Rothes, with the compliments was how wonderfully polite and well- under 14 team having played some friendly matches. mannered our children are, and how they showed a We entered our P5 & under team into the Moray Pri- tremendous spirit of sportsmanship! Well done, run- mary School League. Last year was the first year of ners! this league with 8 teams entered, with us finishing last and not winning a game. This year 16 teams entered, meaning 2 leagues of 8 teams, After 7 games we had won 6 and drawn the other, scoring 90 goals and let- ting in 15. After the winter break the top 4 in each league joined together to make a new league A and the bottom 4 in each making a new league B. At our coffee morning in December, we raised £388.50. Many thanks to all who helped, attended, and donated. Louise has booked another one for December 2015. Our new season for the Speyside league starts on 19th April. We have entered a team in the p6/7s, and one in the P4/5s. These two class leagues play in League and Cup, and Tournaments. The P3 & unders play in friendly matches and tourna- Recently our younger pupils have been studying the ments. There are still some strips and rain-jackets to Arctic and Antarctic, and exploring how cold weather come back in from players who went up to high school affects life on our planet. We welcomed a visiting in the summer. explorer, Derek Conder, to come and share his experi- If there are any primary children (boys or girls) wants ences, and he brought in his thick protective clothing to come along to training give me a call. for the children to try, and a real penguin! Willie Younie This week a group of pupils are going to Elgin for a 01340 831732 science workshop. A very generous donation of money from the Windfarm Trust has secured the experience and will also fund further science workshops in the coming months. Mrs. Beverley Kirk HOGMANAY PARTY Headteacher I would like to thank everyone who donated raffles, Des Johnston for being our DJ for the night, Hilary and Denise for helping to organise, the Robertson Trust and Chivas for their kind donations, and all the people who helped to clear up the following day! LACK OF SPACE! The total amount raised was £4926 and the proceeds went to the Grant Hall. Unfortunately, one or two articles had to be omitted from this issue, due to lack of space. Thanks again! We will do our best to fit them into the next issue. Pauline Younie

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 11 ROTHES COMMUNITY NEWS FROM ROTHES COUNCIL THE COTTAGE We had a good turnout at the AGM in January Thanks to everyone who bought the cards and cal- with both old and new members. Jean and Alan endars in the run up to Christmas and to those Grimshaw had intimated that they wished to take who commented on the improved quality. I a back seat for a while due to health issues. The would also like to thank the local businesses both new committee appointed for the year were:- inside and outwith Rothes who helped us achieve Chairperson – Pearl Paul, Vice-chair – J Grim- very good sales figures. shaw, Secretary – Michelle Ness, Treasurer – We will soon be breaking out of our winter sleep Andy Cherry, and Wind Farm Group organiser – and opening up again at Easter and we should be Jim Anderson. looking very inviting thanks to the Windfarm for The committee were delighted that they had a full enabling us to buy a matching set of chairs for complement of office bearers and proposed a vote around the big civic table. of thanks to Jean and Alan for their work in the The purchase of the new computers is in hand and past. They also wished them a speedy recovery. we will soon be taking delivery of a simple to use photocopier, for day to day use by the volunteers. At present the council are working with the Spey- If you would like to get involved, as a volunteer, side Rotary Club and Grampian police on provid- with all that goes on at the Cottage and you can ing a defibrillator for twenty four hour coverage spare a couple of hours a week then we would in the town. They are also well advanced in love to hear from you. Free use of the kettle dur- providing a town notice board with the money ing your shift is complimentary. raised at last summer’s homecoming concert. A delegation from the Rothes council met with Mr It will soon be the Speyside Whisky Festival and Kevin Price from Moray Council to look at yel- ‘Tattie Bogle’ time again. This year our contribu- low lines in Station Street, traffic movement, tion will take the form of a Craft Market to be signage and inconsiderate parking in High Street nd held in the Grant Hall on Saturday 2 May. and the speed of the traffic entering Rothes from As well as organising this event we will also have the south. The Moray council are to monitor the a stall where the usual Cottage goods, small gifts issues raised and report back. and mounted pictures of local scenes will be on This year we have to make new arrangements for sale the watering of the floral displays and hanging If you would like to help out at this event there baskets so if anyone feels they could help please will be plenty of jobs to do. You will agree that have a word with Gordon Scott or Jim Anderson. the Tattie Bogles are very good at hanging around The Rothes Council meets on the first Monday of looking humorous, enigmatic, glamourous and every month, but excluding July and sometimes sophisticated but they aren’t much good at pour- June depending on business pending. The meeting tea, serving home bakes, manning a stall or ings are open to the public so please feel free to selling raffle tickets, for these jobs we will need come along, you will be most welcome. people with a little bit more life in them. If you Pearl Paul feel that you qualify then please volunteer. For more information about the Cottage or to volunteer please contact;-

Pearl 01340 831761 or Irene 01340 832350

12 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons CAR SHARE SCHEME JEAN (CHARITY NUMBER SC035246) It is a very sad Rothesian Group that brings the First of all I would like to say a big ‘Thank you’ to all the March issue of the Rothesian to you. Jean Allan members who have filled in and returned the questionnaire a stalwart and founder member of our group sadly so quickly to us. passed away early this year after being hospital- If you didn’t receive one and you would like the opportunity ised following a fall on the ice in Rothes. Alt- to have a say about your thoughts and experience of the hough not so fit as she used to be she could be scheme then please get in touch and I will make sure you get seen on her invalid scooter delivering the Rothe- one and that your views are included in the results. sian letters, spell checking the draft Rothesian and So far most of the comments have been very positive and providing a pick up point for our distributors. heartening to read as they prove that the Scheme is still ful- She was a great source of Rothes knowledge, had filling the role for which it was set up over 10 years ago. a wicked sense of humour and always called a Fortunately lack of detailed information in the Transport spade a spade. She was great to work with. Guide hasn’t caused too much confusion which indicates Jean did all her schooling at Rothes and although that most people are now well aware of the criteria for becoming a member of the Car Share Scheme. she left the town for a while, she came back to her Providing your situation fits that criteria then being a mem- roots and got involved with the community life. ber is a bit like an insurance policy, you do not have to use She was a long time member and secretary of the us but if you are not a member you can’t use us. (Simples!). Senior Citizens a member of the Rothes Council In fact we ask that if you normally use other forms of and a member of the Gala Group always ready to transport then please continue to do so as we are only here to do her bit. She helped out at the Cottage and cof- provide assistance when there is no other alternative availa- fee mornings and was always in demand for man- ble to fulfil the needs of your required journey. ning stalls and selling raffles. Please note - If you have to travel to ARI for an appointment She was extremely proud of her work with the then do consider taking the time to visit the General Office Rothes Book Group which compiled a book on to pick up a claim form, as all patients from our area life in Rothes and the Rothesian newsletter where (regardless of income) are entitled to some form of assis- she got articles from old friends from all over the tance with their travel expenses. world. She will be sadly missed. Even if you feel you don’t need it please remember that there are others who do and if these entitlements aren’t claimed then one day they might just cease to be there for everyone. If you live in Rothes, Aberlour, Archiestown, Dufftown, Glenlivet, Tomintoul, or the surrounding areas and you have difficulty getting around to certain things because of age, disability or infirmity then we might be able to help. Tele- phone 01340 831 748 between 9.00am- 5.00pm (Mon.- Fri.) and speak to one of our volunteer telephonists who will give you all the information about eligibility for becoming a member.

If you have some spare time to share with others and you have your own car, like driving and meeting new people then you might like to volunteer to be considered as a driver with the scheme. It’s not a huge commitment so if you would like more information then contact Irene Shaw on 01340 832 350 or Email [email protected] With the better weather approaching we will be out and about at various events again, the first one will be the Rothes Community Craft Market to be held during the Whisky Fes- tival. Come along and buy a donated handmade gift to support us or just say ‘Hello’ and have a chat (to indulge me in one of my favourite pass times). I’ll even give you some information about the Car Share Scheme if you wish. See you around.

Irene Shaw

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 13 THE WESTERN FRONT’S planter beside the War Memorial where, as the anni- MORAY PROJECT. versary of each casualty is reached, a cross will be placed. To date we have the 1914 casualties and the It seems unbelievable but over 100 Great War Casual- early 1915 ones. The names and dates are detailed ties are interred in cemeteries in Moray- that is the elsewhere. present local authority area which includes parts of the Please, if you are connected to any of the Rothes casu- Historic Banffshire. Many died as a result of illness or alties, let us know. It would be great if relatives later the effects of wounds suffered in the war and marked the 100 years by placing the cross and one some as a result of accidents on home service. family have already done so. If you are unsure, we can The local Western Front Branch, which actually co- help you find out. vers the whole of the north of Scotland, is endeavour- More people are becoming aware of their connections ing to place a cross on each grave as the 100 years an- to the Great War and Moray Libraries have been con- niversary is reached. You may have seen from the tributing to the Scottish wide website re this. There Northern Scot that a few have been marked already. have been one or two roadshows already to highlight One of the earliest ones was James Wilson who rests this and to help families with research and it seems in Rothes Cemetery. The young lad died of illness ear- that one is due soon in Forres and another later in ly in 1915. Like many, it is a family grave and not Speyside (Aberlour Library). marked by the familiar Commonwealth War Graves However, the planters are the Rothes way of marking stone known overseas (as well as at home). These the casualties of the Great War. family graves can be rather tricky to locate. To date Glen and Sandra have visited graves in Dallas and Dufftown as well as Rothes. Other WFA members have covered graves elsewhere in Moray. This is only SING FOR LIFE SPEYSIDE covering early 1915 and there are 4 more years to cov- er! This term we are preparing for our Summer Concert Have you a relative interred anywhere in Moray? If so where we will be performing a concert of medleys. we would love to hear from you. You can check the The concert will take place in the Grant Hall on Sun- project’s progress by visiting the Western Front Asso- day 7th of June at 7.30pm. ciation website and clicking on the branches (North of We had a very successful Christmas concert which Scotland) was held in the Kirk on Sunday 21st of December. The concert was well attended and we would like to thank everyone who came to support us. ROTHES REMEMBERS WW1. We are very grateful to everyone who supported our annual coffee morning, which was held in October. Our War memorial lists all the local casualties from The money we raised goes towards our music and hall the Great war ( and WW2 as well of course), but with fees and helps keep the choir free for all youth mem- the 100 years marker it is felt that all our losses de- bers and only £5 per term for adult members. serve to be marked. Glen and Sandra have placed a We were pleased to be able to purchase a new piano stand and foot pedals with money, which we were awarded from the Windfarm Community Benefit Fund and are grateful for their continued support. We would also like thank Angela Hay for supporting us through the Bodyshop Christmas fundraiser and thanks to everyone who placed orders. As always, new members are still welcome for both choirs (adults and youth) so please feel free to join us on a Thursday night in the Kirk hall and giving sing- ing a go.

Thank you very much to everyone who continues to support the choir. Sing for Life Speyside

14 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons DAD’S QUARTER OF AN ACRE DOG FOULING

Spring has sprung again, and it is now three years since our Dog fouling is one of the biggest bones of Darling Dad and Mum's husband Lewis Robb Allan died. contention in communities throughout Moray We cannot believe that those years have gone so swiftly, and and it is an issue that the council takes very still he is missed. seriously. At Dad's funeral a collection was made in his memory, and More complaints are received about dog mess we all agreed that Dad would have felt it a fitting idea that than just about anything else. the money go towards the good work that the Woodland The scale of the problem – and public revul- Trust do. sion towards it – is demonstrated by the fact After the Second World War Dad left the Air Force and that the first half of the current year saw a joined the Orton Estate as an Under Forrester. A lifelong 46% increase in the number of incidents re- love of trees and the big outdoors began, which lasted all of ported to the council’s anti-social behaviour his life."One of the best jobs I ever had", were his words. unit. We felt a sense of immense pride when we were children Although the number of complaints tends to when Dad pointed out the Lodge Pole Pines and the Sitka fluctuate from month to month and year to Spruce he had planted, sadly all long since gone. year, the underlying problem of owners failing We got our heads together and decided to dedicate a quarter to clean up after their dogs does not go away. acre of woodland to Dad. Despite publicity, free poo bags and even the As a family we would go out on trips to Loch Ness on our threat of a fixed penalty, there are a minority summer holidays, Grandad and Santa the Samoyed Dog all of owners who appear content to allow their packed neatly into the powder blue Morris Oxford Traveller. pets to foul pavements, footpaths, parks and As children we felt like intrepid explorers, Loch Ness hold- play areas – all areas to which the public have ing great magic for us, but Nessie was never once seen! access. The Woodland Trust Wood we decided to dedicate Dad's It is of course an offence under the Dog Foul- quarter acre of land to be was the Urquhart Bay Woods, ing (Scotland) Act 2003 to fail to clean up close to Drumnadrochit. It is a (SSSi) a place of Special Sci- after a dog of which you are in charge at the entific Interest, and a Special Area of conservation (SAC). It time and it is beyond belief that there are dog is one of the very few intact floodplain woodlands. owners who are not aware of the law. Its history goes back to 1509 when King James 4th granted it Moray Council’s community wardens are very to the Earls of Seaforth. conscious of public concern and anger at dog The Woodland Trust sent us a Dedication Certificate, a pho- fouling and have been working closely with tograph (which Mum has framed) and detailed maps of the local communities to combat the problem. area, pinpointing Dad's wee piece of land. It also tells us But ultimately it is up to dog owners to prac- about the flora and fauna of the area. In fact the area remind- tise responsible dog ownership and that in- ed us of the wooded area close to the Spey at Eppie Houies. cludes cleaning up after their pets. And really All that remained to be done was to visit “Dad’s Estate", as there are no excuses for anyone failing to do he was now a land owner! that. Poo bags are readily available and can Plans were hastily made and we are flying to Inverness in either be bought from pet shops and supermar- May and staying in Aberlour at the Miniver Rose. Where kets, or obtained free of charge from Moray coincidently the owners father worked for the Orton Estate, Council access points. and he used to visit our Auntie Nellies shop in Burnside Cot- Bins are provided in wThey can also now be tage ....a small world! collected from the Cottage and the Antique We are looking forward Mum,Libby,Jimmy and I returning shophich to deposit the poo and, where there to our beloved Speyside. Both Mum and Libby share the are no bins, it should be taken home and dis- same birthday which they will celebrate whilst we are on posed off in the green household refuse bin. holiday. We had hoped the Station Hotel would be up and Anyone who has concerns about dog fouling running so we could have their celebrations there, but alas in their area, or who witnesses someone fail- no...so we are booked In at the Craigellachie.We hope to ing to clean up after their dog, should call the rekindle friendships on our return to Rothes .We will be council’s anti-social behaviour reporting line back.Jenni,Hazel,Libby and Jimmy...The Allan Clan. on 0800 587 7197 or e-mail antisocialbehav- [email protected]

This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons 15

We were delighted to get this story, written by Winnie Watson, from the Head-mistress of Rothes Prima- ry School, Beverley Kirk. Beverley found the “Rothes Higher Grade Public School Magazine”, dated September 1926 - April 1933 among the school archives. In our next issue, we will have another story from the School Magazine. If you knew Winnie Watson, who was well kent in Rothes, and have any story about Winnie, please contact the Rothesian, or Beverley at Rothes Primary School.

21, High Street Rothes

2nd April 1931

Dear Nancy, As it was a very pleasant week-end, some friends and I decided to go camping. By mu- tual consent, we fixed on the Dounie, Rothes, as our camping place. Having got everything in order by Friday night, we were ready to pitch our tent. Our beds, which consisted of sacks filled with straw, were not very comfortable. The first night passed quickly. On Saturday morning, we rose early, and as I was “head cook and bottle washer”, I had the breakfast to cook. On Friday night, we had gathered a bundle of sticks, so I had the fire burning soon, and the kettle did not take long to boil. I made the tea and fried ham and eggs. We all thought they tasted much better in the open air. After breakfast, we tidied up the camp, and then went for a roam in the woods, returning in time to get dinner in order. We were very hungry and glad when it was ready. The afternoon was very hot, so we spent the evening reading etc. till tea time. In the cool of the evening we went for another roam, arriving back in camp tired out, we were soon in bed fast asleep. Sunday was spent much the same, only we had a dip in a pool in the burn in the early morning, and again in the evening before going to bed. On Monday morning, we took down our tent, carried home our things, leaving the place clean and tidy. After having spent a most enjoyable week-end we returned home as brown as berries. Your loving friend Winnie Winnie Watson 13 years 2/4/31

16 This issue sponsored by I. Fraser & Sons