From an carrannach The General Interest Magazine of Lochcarron, Shieldaig, Applecross, Kishorn, Torridon & Kinlochewe Districts

NO: 360 December/January 2018 £1.00 HIGHLAND HOSPICE ARCHIVE PROJECT

At the 25th anniversary awards, Cecilia Bottomley, a co-founder of the Highland Hospice, was inspired by the board of photographs depicting the achievements of the volunteers over the years. This gave her the idea of creating a Hospice Archive. Cecilia assembled a group of volunteers including former members of staff, and a retired Archivist to begin work to establish an Archive documenting the history and all the work done by both staff and volunteers The material collected was then used to create a 'Recognition Wall' celebrating all aspects of the Highland Hospice and the people who made this all possible. The completed Archive has been deposited with the Highland Archive Service for public consultation and to benefit future researchers, while the Recognition Wall is displayed within the Highland Hospice. On the 26th October Edie Watson and Jan Teago, who have been involved for 30 and 25 years respectively, attended a reception at the Highland Hospice to unveil the Archive boards. It was lucky that there was a large amount of material to pass on to the project kept by previous committee members including Aline Forrester and Edie. Jan was in the process of collating this material on the computer and putting it onto a memory stick so the timing was perfect. It is lovely to know that Lochcarron has contributed to the archive. The reception was well-attended and Edie and Jan were delighted to meet other volunteers, some new and others they had known for many years. The boards can be seen in the reception area next to the coffee shop and are open to anyone who wishes to visit. Did you know...... ?It costs £7,800 every day to deliver Hospice services across the Highlands.

A reminder to everyone who would like to either sponsor a light or come to the Howard Doris Centre for the lighting of the tree, this will take place at 3 pm on Wednesday 6th December. The Howard Doris centre will be hosting a coffee morning, starting at 1..00am with lots of crafts and goodies to buy.

1 an carrannach

Published by An Carrannach Society, Lochcarron.

Chairperson: Joanna Macpherson

Treasurer: Tony Caminiti CAROLS FOR THE COMMUNITY 10 Kirkton Road Lochcarron IV54 8UF 01520 722 148 Lochcarron Village Hall [email protected] This ANNUAL EVENT will be held in the Mailing: Hilary “Post” Rooke village hall on Sunday 17th December at 4pm with bible readings and traditional carols, led Distribution: Anthea Zell by a choir composed of members of the community. Area Representatives: Following the carols, there will be mulled wine Applecross: Lenore Small 01520 744 337 and mince pies Kishorn: Carol Cocks 01520 733 213 All are very welcome Shieldaig: Lucy Kerr 01520 755 368 This year we are making a retiring collection Torridon: Glyn Meredith 01445 791 270 for the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees, whose villages have been destroyed Features: A Word from the Church/On Reflection and who have fled from their homeland in Gardening – Maureen Lyon – 01520 733 488 Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the email [email protected] neighbouring country of Bangladesh Nature Notes – Hatty Arthur – 01520 722 551 email:[email protected]

Advertising: [email protected] Local Rate: Are you looking for occasional Entertainments, Sales, Services, Trade – Whole Page £24, Half page £14, Quarter page £7 Sunday Worship? Out of Area Rate: Please email us for prices

Insertions: The Scottish Episcopal Church Births, marriages, deaths, acknowledgements. Congratulations, thanks notices – No charge (Part of the Anglican Communion) meets in Kinlochewe Subscriptions: 11 issues post paid, U.K. £25.00 : Australia £66.00 (Church of Scotland Building) Canada and USA £60.00 on the first Sunday each month at 2.30pm Contact [email protected] Celebrant and Preacher: Revd Pam Shinkins Editorial Content rd Material for publication must be emailed to Michelle Teago Next service Sunday 3 December 2017 th at :[email protected] or a phone call to Then Sunday 7 January 2018 01520 722688 Everyone welcome Tel: (01445) 781346 Material intended for publication must include your name and address. (Scottish Charity Number SCO15830)

For general information or enquiries email Carolyn Spotted on a church notice board: Caminiti at :[email protected] or phone 01520 “Faithbook: You have one new friend request 722148. from Jesus!”

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

CLOSING DATE FOR THE The An Carrannach Society does not accept FEBRUARY 2017 ISSUE responsibility for the content/accuracy of reports, articles and advertisements received. The views MATERIAL MUST BE RECEIVED BY expressed by contributors are NOT necessarily NO LATER THAN 15TH JANUARY 2017 PLEASE those of the Society. E&OE.

2 Scottish Episcopal Church

Courthill Chapel, Kishorn CHURCH OF SCOTLAND APPLECROSS, LOCHCARRON &

Services for December & January TORRIDON

Sunday Service 10.30 a.m. Charity No: SCO32334

Times and Places of Worship for December 2017 and December 3 Eucharist Rev. John Searl January 2018 10.30 a.m. Advent 1

December 10 Eucharist rd Rev. Francis Minay 3 December Lochcarron 10.30am 10.30 a.m. Advent 2 Torridon Community Hall 1.00pm December 17 Eucharist Rev. John Searl 10th December Lochcarron 10.30am 10.30 a.m. Advent 3

December 24 Eucharist Shieldaig 1.00pm Rev. John Searl 10.30 a.m. Advent 4 Applecross 1.00pm December 24 Carol Service Jan Overmeer 17th December Lochcarron 10.30am 4.00 p.m. Christmas Eve Kinlochewe 1.00pm December 25 Eucharist Rev. John Searl 10.30 a.m. Christmas Day 24th December Christmas Eve Carol Services

December 31 The Courthill congregation will be joining Lochcarron 10.30am the Church of Scotland in Lochcarron 10.30 a.m. Torridon Community Hall 3.00pm Jan 7 Holy Communion Marcus Given Applecross 6.00pm 10.30 a.m. Epiphany 1 January 14 Eucharist Watchnight Service Rev. Heather Lochcarron 11.30pm 10.30 a.m. Epiphany 2 Widdows 31st December Parish Communion 12.00noon January 21 Eucharist Rev. John Searl 10.30 a.m. Epiphany 3 Venue to be arranged

January 28 Eucharist rd Rev. Francis Minay 3 January Lochcarron 10.30am 10.30 a.m. Epiphany 4 Torridon Community Hall 1.00pm February 4 Holy Communion Jan Overmeer th 10.30 a.m. Epiphany 5 10 January Lochcarron 10.30am

Shieldaig 1.00pm

For more information, ring: Applecross 1.00pm

17th January Lochcarron 10.30am

Marcus Given Rita Sykes Kinlochewe 1.00pm 01520 722 617 01520 722 995 th 24 January Lochcarron 10.30am

Applecross 1.00pm Rev. Heather Widdows or Rev. John Searl 01445 712 176 01445 741 231 Shieldaig 1.00pm

Roman Catholic Mass Minister Father William MacLean Monthly on Thursdays Rev. Anita Stutter, Church of Scotland Manse, Contact 01478 613 227 Colonel’s Road, Lochcarron Urgent 07717 222 492 Tel. 01520 722783

3 speaks to us about the joy of the birth of the Saviour; but it speaks to us, powerfully, about our need for such a Saviour: Our sin; our estrangement from God; our disregard to God's will, and the consequences this brings. We are lost, we need on salvation.

reflection But there is another name. It's actually the name that, when truly acknowledged, brings that salvation to our personal experience. Matthew, the writer recording the instruction given to Joseph, continues: What's in a name? “All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel In the Gospels, more than once, the question is (which means God with us).” (Matthew 1:22-23) asked concerning the identity of Jesus of Nazareth. People, seeing the things Jesus did and, especially, Not his identity as to his family. This was known; at the things he said, asked questions. The religious least, people thought so. Some said confidently: “Is teachers of the day asked: “Who is this who speaks not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph alone?” (Luke 5:21) Again, on the occasion of a and Simon and Judas?” (Mat. 13:55) The question meal with him: “Who is this, who even forgives had to do with more than that; it had to do with his sins?” (Luke 7:49). As he entered the city of own identity as an individual, quite aside from his Jerusalem, a few days before he was to be affiliation. executed, the whole city was stirred up, saying, It seems appropriate, at this the time of the year, to “Who is this?” (Matthew 21:10) ask the question and seek the right answer. The world celebrates because of the fact of the birth of It is remarkable that it was precisely at the time of that man, Jesus of Nazareth. the Crucifixion, the least expected of occasions, when that second name was recognised, by one “What's in a name? That which we call a rose, by least expected to do so. The Roman officer in any other word would smell as sweet” wrote the charge of the execution, when he saw how Jesus poet. It may be that it does not matter the name died said, “Truly this man was the Son of given to a flower. It does and much, when it comes God.” (Mark 15:39) It is at the foot of the Cross that to the person that is at the origin of Christmas Jesus is acknowledged as Immanuel, God with celebrations. There is, much in his name; actually, us.The celebration of Christmas should never names; the names given to him around the time of distract us from thinking of what is it that we his birth. Joshua the old Jewish name (Jesus is the celebrate: We sing “Joy to the world,” because a Greek version), was the name given to the baby by Saviour was born: Jesus, who saves from our sins. his father, as instructed by an angel of God. It was But he was also born to be acknowledged as his personal name. It was the name his brothers and Immanuel, God with us. As Saviour we praise Him; sisters would have heard their parents call him; the as God we bow down before Him. name the people of Nazareth would have used to refer to him. It was quite a common name, meaning Surely, “love so amazing, so divine, demands my “God is salvation.” But in his case there was a soul, my life, my all!” significant difference. It was a God-given name, to a May you have a blessed Christmas, and a blessed God-given son, for a God-given task. The instruction New Year. given to Joseph by the angel was: “... you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from Rev. Marcos Florit their sins.” (Matthew 1:21) And so, this name points to some things; as this season of the year should remind us of; since, after all, we celebrate because of His birth. SAMARITANS It points to the main mission of Jesus: It was to save. The teaching and the miracles, and everything Whatever you’ve done. else were subordinate to it. He said so. He said he had come to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10). Whatever life’s done to you. And it points to the great evil from which he saves, that renders us lost: sin. There are, without a doubt, Call Samaritans. manifold effects of this salvation he brings; but the root of all problems is what he deals with. Sin, this No pressure. great anomaly in God's very good Creation, that has brought in alienation at all levels of human No judgement. experience: Man's estrangement from himself and his fellow men; man's misuse of nature around him; We’re here for you any time. but especially, man's separation from God. Christmas speaks to us about these things. It 0845 790 9090.

4 FREE CHURCH WEATHER RECORD - SLUMBAY LOCHCARRON & OCTOBER 2017 APPLECROSS

You are welcome at our services Max Temp Min Temp Rainfall in Lochcarron Church Street IV54 8YP DATE in oC in oC inches 1 14.10 7.40 0.79 Sunday 11am and 6 pm 2 11.90 8.60 0.76 (Crèche and Sunday 3 11.80 8.60 0.22 school) 4 11.40 8.00 0.28 Midweek Wednesdays 7.30pm 5 11.80 5.00 0.30 Applecross Camusterrach IV54 8LU 6 12.90 6.00 0.26 3 pm every Sunday 7 13.00 10.40 0.29 Other events as intimated. 8 12.30 10.30 0.22 Scottish Charity SC038169 9 13.70 7.10 0.28 Rev M. Florit 01520 722 999 10 12.70 7.40 0.96 [email protected] 11 13.10 6.70 0.95 www.freechurch.org 12 16.30 9.10 0.71 13 15.20 10.40 0.17 14 14.80 8.60 0.54 15 16.70 7.40 0.06 16 12.90 7.40 0.73 17 11.40 6.00 0.03 18 12.30 8.10 ----- 19 15.70 10.60 0.10 20 13.10 9.70 0.14 21 15.00 9.40 0.61 22 11.30 5.00 0.15 23 12.90 8.80 0.48 24 13.20 9.70 0.45 25 12.00 9.70 0.35 26 12.10 6.20 0.10 27 12,2 8.00 0.23 28 12.10 4.90 0.05 29 10.20 -0.70 0.01 30 12.20 2.80 0.75 31 13.30 11.30 0.34 TOTAL OCT 2017 11.31 RUNNING TOTAL 2017 59.40 TOTAL OCT 2016 2.64 RUNNING TOTAL 2016 58.70 5 LOCHCARRON MEDICAL PARTNERSHIP FERGUSON MEDICAL CENTRE

Maternity Services If you’re pregnant, you can refer yourself directly to the Midwife, Fiona Shillaker. You can leave a message on 01520 722168. Please contact the Midwife before 8 weeks, if possible. Folic Acid Women, who are thinking of becoming pregnant, could become pregnant, or who are in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, need 400 mcg/ day. Many women don’t know they are pregnant during the first few weeks. This is when folic acid is most important for your developing baby. Folic acid is important for your baby’s development and can help protect your baby from neural tube defects such as spina bifida. If you have epilepsy or diabetes, please speak to your GP or Midwife prior to becoming pregnant if possible.

Christmas / New Year Opening Hours We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Healthy & Happy New Year. Our normal ordering policy asks that patients give us 2 working days to dispense your medication. Please order your medication in plenty of time, ensuring you have enough to last over the periods we are closed. If necessary please order your medication slightly earlier.

Normal Opening Hours - Monday 18th December to Friday 22nd December 2017

Closed - Monday 25th December & Tuesday 26th December 2017

Normal Opening Hours – Wednesday 27th December to Friday 29th December 2017

Closed – Monday 1st January & Tuesday 2nd January 2018

We shall resume normal practice hours on Wednesday 3rd January 2018

In an emergency ring 999

For any urgent calls for medical advice please ring NHS 24 on 111

6 7 12 Red Kites died, it would appear that numbers NATURE NOTES th might be bouncing back. Police are no longer October 16th – November 15 investigating the unsolved case in which a total of 2017 22 birds of prey were poisoned - Police Scotland The last few weeks have seen has said the investigation is no longer active due to the skies filled with sight and the three-year time bar on these offences. The sound of flocks of Redwings birds were poisoned by pesticides Carbofouran, flying up and down the village, Aldicarb and Carbosulfan, which are all banned with their flight calls audible during day and night. under UK-wide legislation. Apparently, the The thin, very penetrating ‘seeip’ call is thinking is that bait was laid for illegal pest control unmistakable and I have also heard one or two and not specifically to target the birds but they birds in full song. I have not noticed that many became ‘unfortunate victims’ of this totally illegal Fieldfares around the village as yet, however th act. Helen Murchison called on Nov 11 to say that It was heart-lifting to see these beautiful birds in quite large numbers were around in Achintraid. the sky, displaying their wonderful maneuverability. Maybe we shall be seeing more around here in the If necessary, Kites can remain stock-still in mid-air next few weeks. Fieldfares are held in high regard with only the tail twisting in relation to air flow, like both for their striking appearance and for their a rudder. status as a classic herald of winter. Spaniards With reference to last month’s jottings about Red appropriately call them the Royal Thrush (Zorzal Squirrels, on October 27th Dave and Margaret real). It is a lovely sight to see a flock of these birds Maunder, who live in Leacanashie, had a Red in in flight, with their white underwings and loud, their garden which fed on peanuts for about 20 vigorous chacking calls. Their routine autumn minutes – good news. Dave Whittingham has also arrival has been recognized since Chaucer’s day, seen one around the same sort of area but when they were trapped and eaten, a practice unfortunately, he also spotted a dead one on the made particularly profitable by their highly side of the road. That’s a great shame but overall, gregarious behavior. the recent news on the relocated squirrels is that Every autumn, the depletion of the Scandinavian they are ‘flourishing and breeding’. Becky Priestley rowan crop triggers the Fieldfare’s nomadic (Trees for Life Wildlife Officer) says that: “Early wanderings, which can carry them as far south as indications are that this could be a real wildlife the African coast. Once British-bound birds have success story. with some being spotted as far as crossed the North Sea they congregate in open 15km away from where they were originally pasture or plough land to hunt for invertebrates. released”. Further bad weather will push them west but they Fingers crossed that all continues well. also take fruit when the ground is frozen, The surrounding autumn colours have been particularly holly, hawthorn and dog rose. glorious, with the browns and golds of dying leaves Fieldfares are adept at finding the last hedgerows on beech and silver birch looking dramatic, with a good crop of berries and they will also go to particularly when caught by sunlight. Even as a large gardens where late windfall apples are relatively young child I never felt that autumn and available. Occasionally they resort to not-so-large winter were anything but preparation for gardens. Most Fieldfares have made the return springtime, even on the gloomy wet days. You only journey to the Continent by late April but in 1967, have to look around to see the promise of things to the first ever pair remained in Orkney to nest and come. In the garden, Snowdrops, Butterbur and raised 3 young. There are now records of breeding Daffodils were all showing above the ground by pairs ranging from northern Scotland to as far as Nov 3rd, new buds for next year’s leaves are south Kent. poised ready and waiting, hazel catkins are clearly Mike Betts emailed on Oct 22nd with news of two visible and I have heard Great Tits, Coal Tits and large skeins of Whooper Swans (20 and 60 Dunnocks in full song. approx) being seen by Robin Blamey from the One thing all nature lovers know, appreciate and shore at Ardaneaskan and also about 200 in a field find comfort in at this time of year is that (in words near Contin that Mike himself saw whilst on the from part of the poem by Oliver Herford that I have way to Muir of Ord. I travelled past the same area quoted a few times before) “We are nearer to two days later and there were perhaps 100 or so th Spring Than we were in September”. Nature’s still there in the field. On Nov 12 , I spotted a lone cycle continues. Whooper on the loch opposite Kielburn Crescent th Thank you for your emails and calls and I hope you and on Nov 15 , saw 4 in the same location. continue to enjoy all nature’s wonderful sights and Having read last month’s Nature Notes, Hilary Post sounds in 2018. mentioned to me that there were Bramblings in her Enjoy the festive season and may the New Year garden in Craig towards the end of October – I’m bring you all good things. still keeping my eyes open for sight of them around the village. Happy listening, looking and watching. Whilst not immediately local, a journey to th Hatty Arthur Inverness on November 8 provided sightings of Bank House 11 Red Kites which was truly heartening. After the 722551 [email protected] ( please deeply disturbing mass poisoning of 2014, when note the change of email address) 8 Lochcarron Camanachd one and ‘Ronnie’ Cameron saved with his feet Apologies for the missed issue and cleared to safety. The game began to swing last month, this report includes back in Lochcarron's’ favour and McCuish scored our final two games of the his second of the game to make it four nil to the season. home side. A fifth goal came soon after, with a fine strike from distance, Lance McCuish getting th On the 16th September we were due to play his hat-trick for the game and 14 league goal of Caberfeidh 2nds at home, but because of an the season. Final score: Lochcarron 5, Lewis 0. unplayable pitch the game was moved to Castle Leod. From the throw up Caberfeidh immediately The Club would like to thank every person and put Lochcarron on the back foot, with a series of organisation that has supported us this season. quick passes the ball found its way to Jamie Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Matheson, his quick shot produced a fine stop from ‘Ronnie’ Cameron inside the opening thirty seconds. The game’s opening goal was scored after just 10 minutes, Jamie Matheson making it 1 All of us here at An Carrannach would nil from close range. The travelling side were like to wish everyone a very Merry Christ- starting to make chances for themselves and went close through Crisdean Finlayson and Liam mas & Happy New Year. We would like Arnott, but Caberfeidh would increase their lead, to take this opportunity to thank all our Matheson with a fine strike making it two nil. Half time: Caberfeidh 2, Lochcarron 0. regular feature contributors, everyone that The second half started much like the first, helps with distribution, our regular adver- ‘Ronnie’ Cameron pulling off a number of good saves to keep the score line down, but it wasn’t tisers and the outlets that give up space to long till Cabers found the net for a third time and sell it. We are always looking for more for Matheson to complete his hat trick with another close range effort. The game was helpers and if anyone one could spare a nearing an end, but there was still time for one couple of hours each month to help with more goal, Douglas Mackenzie was deemed to the distribution we would love to have kicked the ball in the ‘D’ and a penalty was awarded. Matheson stepped up and stuck the hear from you. For more information penalty away, which took his tally to four for the please contact Michelle Teago at afternoon. Final score: Caberfeidh 4, Lochcarron 0. [email protected]

Lewis Camanachd visited the Battery Park on the 23rd September for their final fixture of the season, this would also be Kenny ‘Duffy’ Murray’s final TREE SURGERY game for the islanders, where he has spent the last four seasons. Tree Surgery carried out Lochcarron started off the game very strongly and by an experienced and had plenty of possession; this led to a number of fully insured operator. Up- chances in the opening fifteen minutes but to-date test certificates. nothing troubling the Lewis goal. The opening goal didn’t come till the half hour mark, Andrew Lop and top can now be Ford controlling the ball well and finishing from a chipped on site. tight angle. It wasn’t long before it was two for the home side, Lance McCuish finding his name on All aspects of garden work the score sheet yet again this season, when he fired home from 15 yards out. Liam Arnott, who carried out, grass cutting, hedge trimming, was having another excellent game, got the third strimming etc. of the game, good link up play in the forward line ended with a fine strike, leaving the Lewis ‘keeper Also fencing undertaken. no chance. Half time score: Lochcarron 3, Lewis Phone DAVID THOMSON on 0. Lochcarron 722347 (evenings) The second half started with Lewis looking far the better team, they began to win the midfield battle and started getting the ball into the forward line which was causing problems for the home AL ANON FOR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS defence. With the added pressure, David OF PROBLEM MacCuish gave away a foul for a push in the back DRINKERS. inside the ‘D’. The resulting penalty was a poor CONTACT NO: 020 7403 0888

9 GARDENING room, is a clump of cornus. Once the leaves have Not long after I wrote the November notes fallen the brightly coloured stems come into their bemoaning the lack of dry golden days for the own in shades of red, orange and lime green, and autumn clear-up, we did indeed have a beautiful there are yellow and orange willows, too, which spell, even if it was short-lived. There was real can be cut back later on if they prove too pleasure in stacking the green vegetable waste on vigorous. Cutting a few stems now will bring the compost heap, layered with a friend’s best another seasonal benefit since the long, springy horse manure, imagining all the good stuff it growths can be bent beautifully into the base of a would make to return to the soil in six months or garland for the front door. so. The fallen leaves, which Berried trees and shrubs are great treasures, both some of us regard for us and for the birds and mammals that share as such a our gardens. Some are soon stripped, especially nuisance, are by the fieldfares and redwings who have just treasure to others. passed through, but others seem less palatable to Piled into wire them. Our cotoneaster keeps its fine bunches of mesh bins they rot pinkish-red fruits until well into the New Year and down in a year or some newer selections of rowan also seem to be two to form the avoided. I have always been a traditionalist most wonderful where rowans are concerned and preferred soil conditioner. orange or, at furthest, red fruits. Yet when we were in Wales in October I was bowled over by The next couple of months can be a trial for one with golden yellow berries. I might have to gardeners, apart from any inspirational books and succumb if I spot one in a garden centre! long-needed equipment that arrive as gifts at Christmas. In spring, summer and autumn there Ornamental grasses can make a fine contribution, is usually plenty to do and lots to enjoy, even from too. Some keep their flowering heads all winter inside the house, and I am wondering whether it and sparkle with frost on a clear, bright day. Most isn’t just as important to do what Alan Titchmarsh of us would do well to concentrate on those that used to recommend and ‘give the garden a good prefer damp conditions so look out for varieties of dose of looking at’ in the middle of winter. Micanthus sinensis (Chinese Silver Grass) especially one called ‘Morning Light’. It has When we get sun in winter it has a special quality. arching green and cream blades which create a Apart from being welcome just for itself, the low fountain-like effect. Deschampsia cespitosa angle of the rays picks shapes out in a (Tufted Hair Grass) also tolerates damp remarkable way and makes the most of what conditions. It forms neat mounds of dark green colour there is. Some gardens in the area will foliage up to about a metre high, covered from really get no direct sunlight during this time but if summer onwards in billowing, frothy flowers. yours does, stand in a doorway or at a window Others which prefer better drainage can be grown and grab in containers. We have Stipa tenuissima the (Mexican Feather Grass) in a large terracotta pot opportunity mixed with Schizostilis cocchinea (Crimson Flag to notice Lily) which will probably go on flowering through just where most of December. it falls. Take a As the year turns we will be enjoying indoor bulbs brief sortie and soon afterwards looking out for the first outside shoots of snowdrops and dwarf irises, spring with a cyclamen and winter aconites. Even now some marker of daffodils have already begun to spike through the some kind grass. in your hand (large stone, short stake, whatever) and put it in the spot. That is the place to plant something which, next winter, will really shine for you. I know we think we will remember, without putting in a marker, but once the whole garden is bathed in glorious sun again (I’m being optimistic here) it is easy to forget those special spots

Evergreens make the ideal background and can themselves be winter stars, especially when the foliage is frosted or the branches are capped with snow. In the sun the obvious choice, if you have

10 HAPPY CHRISTMAS

TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

FROM THE FAMILY & STAFF AT YOUR FAVOURITE SPAR SHOP

11 LOCHCARRON FOOD CENTRE 01520 722209 ENJOY OUR GREAT SERVICE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR *** 24 Hour Self Service petrol & Diesel *** Cash Machine on site 24/7 *** Free Delivery within 10 Miles *** Open at 7.00am for Fresh Coffee, Sandwiches & Michelle's home baking *** Cost saving promotions change regularly *** See our latest range of £1 products *** Delivery to holiday homes prior to arri- val of guests *** Our Aladdin's Cave Upstairs for a huge range of D.I.Y. and Household Products *** If it's not in stock we will endeavour to find it for you

12 Open in December Friday and Sunday 11.00am to 4.00pm Thank you Everyone for your support

13 Loch Carron Coastal Rowing ing local racing in the bay and in the waters close by. We’re still very keen to recruit more rowers, particularly Association those with younger muscles, and if you want to be involved in the build please get in touch. It’s very much a community project and the more people involved the December Update better. Contact Steven on [email protected] It’s been a busy couple of months with lots to report (01520 722870) or Nick on [email protected] including regattas, the building of a second skiff and a (01520 722220) cup! of which more later. Following our visit to the Shieldaig in August we decid- ed to have a go at the East Coast and entered the LOCHCARRON LIBRARY NEWS Avoch Regatta which took place in October. We were equipped with a very fine set of new oars built by Sue Wow, it’s finally here! Not Christmas of course, but the Robb and hopeful of a good outing. It didn’t go quite to last Library News of 2017. And, I see we’ve had quite a plan, for a number of reasons, and our results were year too as I strum through the diary, with some nota- disappointing but we still had a great time and ble high points. During the year, we’ve fitted a few ex- thoroughly enjoyed ourselves even though we came in tra events into our normal timetable, including a weekly at the back of the fleet. Storytime every Tuesday morning at 11.30am for our It really is a great day out as Coastal Rowing events very young Readers. We’ve also had a few one-offs, are attracting good crowds and there were 2 – 300 including a much enjoyed and well attended author people cheering on 12 boats from different parts of the visit over the summer. This was by author Jane coast - the atmosphere is very festive with all ages MacKenzie for the launch of Mediterranean Summer. involved. And please note, there will be another book and launch We learnt a lot about different sea conditions and to follow in 2018. picked up many ideas around techniques and equipment that are now being put into practice. Speaking of authors, we also have a visit and talk planned for Spring/Summer 2018 by author and editor, The second regatta took place on 11th November in Moira Forsyth (A Message from the other side), so Ullapool and was the inaugural event of the Wester please watch this space for more news of this. Another one-off event, which we hosted was a Library Badge evening, when some of the cubs came in to do this. Needless to say, they were all successful, so well done.

Lochcarron library chugs on quite happily with its many regular events, and taking a quick tally of just the regular children’s ones, by the time you’re all tucking into your turkey dinners, we will have seen over 200 children through our doors in 2017 for these. To broaden access to our regular events, we have decided to run our Chatterbooks Group during school time, as a school visit to the library. This has worked successfully, meaning more children can benefit from this fun event rather than just those that were able to attend after school.

Libraries in the twenty first century are very much Ross Winter League; an event proposed by judged on how many people visit them, so we were Lochcarron. Five clubs took part in a series of short delighted to be asked by both the Poetry Group and (250 metres) sprints and three longer races of 700 the Bridge Club, if they could hold their meetings in metres. Despite snow on the tops and the occasional the library. Both are lighted- hearted, fun groups, and shower of hail, the weather co-operated and the good Bridge meets twice weekly on Mondays and Friday news is that we no longer come last all the time. In afternoon at 1.30pm. fact we did quite well and were awarded the first Winter Poetry is always the first Monday of the month at League cup! We’re not quite sure why we got it – 11.30pm, so can I please ask you to support these perhaps for being good sports and having fun – but, as groups as much as possible. And why not give them a you can see from the photograph, we were very happy try in 2018? to accept. Another great day and we’re now planning how we can run a similar event in Lochcarron over the If any other local Groups suddenly find themselves winter (perhaps 9th December) see facebook page for homeless or want to consider a change of venue, then details. please consider using the library. We are bright, warm and rather snug, and very accommodating, not to Finally we’re delighted to announce that we will be mention we have wonderful books. We regularly assist starting to build a second skiff over the coming winter. the Howard Doris Centre who hold their Board Donny and Evelyn Mackay have kindly offered use of a Meetings here, so please just ask and we’ll see if we barn on Croft Road and the Lochcarron Community can help! Hot off the press is the new library One Fund has provided a grant to support our own fund Card, which is a joint venture between Aberdeenshire, raising, which has enabled us to buy the kit. We hope Aberdeen, Angus, Highland & Perth and Kinross. The to have the new boat in the water next summer allow- idea is one card, which gives access to 120 libraries,

14 1.6 million books and 600 PC’s. For more information just go to: www.scottishlibraries.org/onecard

I would like to say thank you too to all our supporters. Many people have very kindly donated unwanted books to us so they can be transformed into library books on our shelves, others have also made cash donations, so thank you. And thank you also to our many library users, you are much appreciated.

Just to let you know, a decision has been taken that smaller libraries will NOT remain open during the festive season, so this includes Lochcarron. Therefore, we will be CLOSED for the following days from: Monday 25th Dec 2017 THROUGH to Tuesday 2nd January 2018. Finally, here is a quick list of our December events:

Story time every Tuesday at 11.30am Poetry Readings Monday 4th December at 11.30am School visit by P2-4’s Friday 1st Dec at 9.45am Christmas Chatterbooks P5-7 Monday 11th Dec at 9.45am Christmas Bookbug 3-5 yrs 10am Wed 13th Dec Christmas Bookbug 0-2 Friday 8th Dec at 12noon Bridge every Monday & Friday afternoon at 130pm

For our December’s Writing Group session, which I do not have, please contact us on the number at the end of the article or just pop in! And please everyone, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Tuesday 9.30am-12.30pm 6.00pm-8.00pm Wednesday 2.00pm-4.30pm Friday 2.00pm-4.30pm Telephone: 01520 722679 Email: [email protected] Shieldaig residents. During the winter months, copies of An Carrannach will be available in Shieldaig Church Hall. The Hall is open during the sorting of post on Mon-Fri mornings, and on Thurs. mornings from 10.30-12.30 during Toddler group..

15 Firewood This is the busy time for firewood orders, if you’d like to order chopped logs or lengths of timber contact [email protected] 01520 722952.

www.lochcarroncommunity.com Lochcarron Community Development Company News. THANK YOU TO Volunteer days in Kirkton Woodland CRAFT FAIR ORGANIZERS The brave volunteers have been busy during Avril Lochcarron Produce Thursdays in November clearing paths, picnic areas, Alison Dornie Craft viewpoints and generally working hard in Kirkton Wilma Torridon Craft Woodland. Many thanks to everyone who has helped out so far. These are regular sessions so follow us on Facebook, twitter or www.lochcarroncommunity.com A heartfelt "thank you" to you and YOUR for more times and dates. TEAMS for all the hard work, a lot of which, many folk are not aware of, that you put in Highlife funding-community engagement throughout the year, to ensure the fairs are a The trees donated by The Woodland Trust have success. arrived and are now safely tucked up in our Tree Thank you also to those who work so hard to Nursery at the Smithy Hub waiting to be planted after produce delectable refreshments at these Christmas as part of this project. venues; those who organise the raffles and those who do sterling work putting up (and taking down!), tables, banners etc. Without you highly efficient folk, we crafters would be lost. May you all have the kind of Christmas you wish for. On behalf of all stall holders who attend these venues. Margaret Maunder (Amigo Crafts)

Film on Kirkton Woodland’s history See elsewhere in this publication for the exciting news about a film being made by the pupils of Lochcarron Primary school. This is based on the Historical Research that Paul Swan and others had previously Sat 2nd done, to find out all about the people who lived there December before it was planted with trees. 11am to 7pm iGallery By the time you read this the iGallery will open again Christmas for our annual Christmas Fair which is running from November 27th to December the 8th. It will be closed at weekends as these are always very quiet, Opening Open Studio times will be 11am- 3pm. This is a great opportunity to buy local and support the community when selecting at Brynaport, Kishorn festive gifts and cards. A wide selection will be on sale again this year. Join us for mince pies,

Dairy mulled wine and hot fruit punch After a lot of work the main funding application for the proposed new dairy has been lodged with the Lottery. Beautful original art and gifs We expect there will be some more information including cards, calendars and required as it is a big project and a lot of funding is required. We are still looking for anyone who has paintngs experience with charities, fundraising, catering, or business who has spare time & would consider getting We look forward to seeing you involved & possibly becoming a board member.

16 Applecross Forum

The Applecross Forum was launched at a public meeting in the Community hall on Monday, 13 November. The Forum is an exciting innovation not just for Applecross but for the wider Highland community. It will provide an open platform for communication between the Applecross community, its organisations and the Applecross Trust. It aims to facilitate progress towards an increasingly resilient community within our beautiful Applecross Peninsula now and in the future. Further information about the Forum, including details of how it will work, can be found on the Forum website, www.applecrossforum.org.

All who care about Applecross, whether residents, second home owners or visitors, will be warmly welcomed at Forum meetings which will be held four times a year. However, for continuity, a core of “active members” is required who will commit to attending all the Forum meetings. There were eight volunteers at the well-attended meeting: Gill Fairweather, Jon Glover, Sue Groocock, Jackie Liuba, Duncan McCowan, Tery McCowan, Fiona McKenzie and Tom O’Halloran.

The first meeting of the Forum will be on Monday, 22 January. Details and Agenda for January and future meetings will be widely advertised - in An Carrannach, on local notices and on the Forum website. If you would like to suggest a topic for the Agenda please e-mail your suggestion to [email protected] or discuss it with one of the eight “active members” of the Forum listed above.

17 Kirkton Settlement Filming Kishorn Notes Project This is the month for rainbows! David Tress was here with enthusiastic painters at Brynaport, and the artists certainly painted some colourful reminders of our dramatic scenery. Gillian and Mark hosted the group in their usual hospitable style, bringing this year's courses to a splendid conclusion.

Lucy has worked hard at the Seafood Bar, completing her first five months as the new We are delighted to announce that owner. She has been incredibly busy, Lochcarron Primary School, in partnership together with a steep learning curve, and we with Lochcarron Community Development applaud her for continuing to give Kishorn Company, is busy making a film. Based in such a popular and tasty place to eat. Many 1872, the film is a fictional re-enactment of a of the NC500 visitors, as well as locals, have family being cleared from their home and has enjoyed the Seafood Bar - which is now resulted from a series of ‘heritage workshops’ closed until February. that local animateur Lynda Beveridge has been delivering with the school throughout the The Selfie Box has informally recorded a year. steady stream of visitors into Kishorn. The This has involved the children making a notebook in the box is witness to a variety of number of visits to the ruinous settlement at interesting comments! Kirkton, examining and surveying the buildings there, as well as researching and Hannah hosted a Christmas event for two learning about the lifestyles and livelihoods of weekends at Patterns of Light, where people its habitants - informing their understanding of were happily drinking wine and eating mince local heritage and concepts such as Shelter, pies whilst enjoying the opportunity to shop in Community and Sustainability. such calm and attractive surroundings. The The remains of the half-dozen or so buildings Patterns of Light website will keep you up to of Kirkton have been hidden from view for the date on winter opening hours, for those who last fifty years by the conifer plantation. still have shopping to do! Purchase of Kirkton Woods from the Forestry Commission by the Lochcarron Community John and Sharon have had a well earned rest group in 2015 – and consequent tree this November, after a very hectic season in harvesting operations – have once again the Bealach cafe. They are opening again for brought the village to light. December, on Fridays and Sundays, which With EU funding from LEADER, a new we all look forward to. footpath network is being developed to improve access and the primary school will One of Kishorn highlights this month has soon be involved in developing new signs and been the arrival of high-speed broadband. artwork to be deployed there, explaining the Ever since the 'green box' arrived in history and local significance of the site. Achintraid excitement grew, and now the in- Volunteer work parties from the community ternet speeds are racing! Despite the fact that have also been busy tidying up the we live in a wonderful wilderness, the modern surrounding area to make the context of the world has been brought to our doorstep...how site more attractive to walkers and other lucky are we. visitors. Here are a few photos from the film shoot to whet your appetite. We’re hoping to Most of the boats are out of the water now; it have a public is very cold on the sea even if we have calm preview of the days , so a wintery feel descends on the final film in shore. the New Year. So watch this This is the last entry for 2017, so it just space…... remains for me to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

18 News and Highlights

Welcome to Respite Care at the Howard Doris Centre

Bunty MacDonald and Staff Nurse Cathy Geddes

Staff will respect privacy, promote independence The Howard Doris Centre is pleased to announce and dignity, and strive to meet the needs of all its launch of the revamped respite facility - the individuals. Meals are all prepared in the Centre's Lochside Suite. kitchen, using fresh wholesome and where Respite simply means a short break from possible, locally sourced ingredients. Dietary challenging or difficult situations. As we get older choices are provided to any special requirements or become unwell, everyday life can become of each individual. The Suite contains a challenging or difficult. Sometimes, a short break kitchenette and fridge, and has its own private can give us - or our carer - a chance to recharge shower room and toilet. The Centre is situated and recoup our energy levels. This can mean that next to the Loch, and has beautiful gardens the return to life at home becomes easier, more providing colourful walks. sustainable and enjoyable for the longer term. If We are very grateful to the Torridon Hotel for you think that you or your carer are becoming providing toiletries for the Suite. We are also stressed or tired coping on a daily basis, or would appreciative of the provision of three beautiful just like a change, we can help. paintings of local scenes from Lochcarron Gallery for the Suite and which are also available for purchase.

The Lochside Suite The refurbished Suite has brand new furnishings and décor - a welcoming, warm and comfortable Painting from The Lochcarron Gallery home from home. A person staying in the Suite The newly-formed Cancer Support Group, which will have full access to the many services started in September continues its successful provided by the Centre. These include a huge meetings for people living with cancer, and their range of daily weekday activities - although if family members. The group is called Health and quiet solitude is required, that can be provided Wellbeing for people living with Cancer. It too. Personal requirements will be attended to by (Continued on page 20) caring and fully trained staff.

19 (Continued from page 19) The Howard Doris Centre is an initiative of The comprises a series of monthly afternoon get- Strathcarron Project, Scottish registered togethers taking place on the last Monday of the charitable company, limited by guarantee. Charity month (excluding December) at 2.00 pm. offering no. SC021024. Company no. SC142359. practical support and advice. It is open to people from Skye and Lochalsh as well as around our local area. The next meeting will be on Monday 29th January, and will focus for advice on a healthy diet, and managing a small appetite in Friday 1 December particular. There will also be some tips and hints Christmas Shopping in Dingwall, all day outing on managing medication from a pharmacist. You - Lunch at Store House Foulis are assured of a warm welcome. Please let us Monday 4 December know at least one week in advance if you plan to Christmas Decorating, all day come to a session by leaving a message on: Poetry, Library, 11.30am 01471 822913 or by emailing: Tuesday 5 December [email protected] Boccia Bowling, Lounge, 1.45pm The popular Fit as a Fiddle group, led by our staff Wednesday 6 December nurse, Cathy Geddes, is a monthly opportunity to Christmas Fair, Lounge, 11.00am – 4.00pm bring health issues into sharp focus in an informal Light up the Highlands, Reception, 3.00pm way. The December meeting will involve a festive Thursday 7 December drink and healthy nibbles and for January we will Pantomine Eden Court, day outing have a New Year Healthy Resolutions theme to Friday 8 December our chat. Routine blood pressure and weight Christmas Carols and Readings, Lounge, 1.45pm checks will also be on the agenda. - With mulled wine and Christmas mince pies! Maureen Lyon, a much valued and green-fingered Monday 11 December volunteer at the Centre is spearheading a greet- Reiki, Small Lounge, 10.45am ings card recycling project. If you have some used Tai Chi, Dining Room, 11.30am Christmas cards – or greetings cards of any sort – Tuesday 12 December please bring them along for Maureen at the Fit as a Fiddle, Small Lounge, 11.30am Centre. They will be appreciated and put to good Bridge the Years, Lounge, 2.00pm use. Wednesday 13 December Pampered Palms, Lounge, 11.30am Aline Forrester celebrates the successful Thursday 14 December completion of her embroidered tablecloth Client Christmas Lunch, Dining Room, 12.30pm - Invitations will follow shortly Friday 15 December Exercise Class, Dining Room, 11.45am Photography Workshop, Lounge, 1.30pm Monday 18 December Gardening Day, 10.30am – 3.00pm Tuesday 19 December Bingo, Lounge, 1.45pm Wednesday 20 December Shopping in Kyle, directly after lunch Thursday 21 December Concert Time with André Rieu, Lounge, after lunch Friday 22 December Christmas Wreath Craft with Jane, Lounge, 1.45pm Lulu Matheson, Enid Simpson and Monday 25 December Caca Mackenzie go to battle with Triominos Day Care Closed Tuesday 26 December Day Care Closed Wednesday 27 December Three Degrees Meeting, Small Lounge, 11.30am Christmas Blethers, Lounge1.45pm Monday 1 January Day Care Closed Tuesday 2 January Day Care Closed Thursday 4 January Discover Your Creativity, Lounge, 11.00am Kyle Shopping Outing, Directly after lunch Friday 5 January Exercise Class, Dining Room, 11.45am

20 Men’s Shed, Bealach Workshop/Café, am/pm Monday 8 January Poetry, Library, 11.30am Tuesday 9 January Shopping, Holm Mill Inverness, all day outing Illustrated Lectures Wednesday 10 January Bridge the Years, Lounge, 2.00pm Evening Whist, Lounge, 7.30pm Thursday 11 January Guided Imagery, Small Lounge, 11.15am LOCHCARRON VILLAGE th Film Club, Lounge, 1.00pm HALL 16 DECEMBER Friday 12 January Photography Workshop, Lounge, 1.30pm 7.30pm Monday 15 January Gardening Day, 10.30am – 3.00pm Tuesday 16 January An Evening of Adventure Day Care Closed with Robin Downie and Wednesday 17 January Skittles, Lounge, 1.45pm Martin Moran Thursday 18 January Discover Your Creativity, Lounge, 11.00am General Health Wellbeing, Dining/Treatment Room “200 MILES and - 1.30pm Massage (Treatment Room) - 2.00pm Yoga (Dining Room) 20,000 FEET” Friday 19 January Exercise Class, Dining Room, 11.30am Men’s Shed, Bealach Workshop/Café, am/pm ULTRA ENDURANCE Tuesday 23 January Fit as a Fiddle, Small Lounge, 11.30am AND HIMALAYAN Boccia Bowling, Lounge, 1.45pm Wednesday 24 January PIONEERING Bingo, Lounge, 1.45pm Thursday 25 January Lochcarron’s young triathlete Robin Robert Burns Lunch, Dining Room, 12.30pm Friday 26 January Downie recounts his remarkable Boccia Bowling, Lounge, 1.30pm achievements in the Celtman and Tuesday 30 January Norwegian ultra triathlon events of Pampered Palms, Lounge, 11.30am 2017 Points of View, Small Lounge, 11.30am Wednesday 30 January And veteran local mountaineer Martin Skittles, Lounge, 1.45pm Moran describes the trials and pleasures of making first ascents in the Other regular weekly events Sunday Himalayas at the age of 62 Praise and worship, Main Lounge, 4.00pm Monday & Friday Profits of evening to be donated to the Bridge Group, Library, 1.30pm Village Hall Association and Monday Highland Food Bank Cross Stitch & Tapestry, Lounge, 2.00pm Tuesday Knit and Knatter, Small Lounge, 2.00pm Entry Price £8.00 (£5.00 Wednesday Children and Concessions) Quilting & Patchwork Group, Dining Room, 2.00pm Please note: Not taking place December 2017 Friday Drinks, Hot Snacks and Raffle in Getting IT Together Computer Class, 11.00am. interval; Pay on Door Please note: This class will be held on a Wednesday as from Wednesday 3 January 2017 Come along to enjoy a great Please contact us on 01520 722012 / 541 - or email: night of entertainment and help [email protected] regarding Day Centre queries or any of the events. You can pop into the Lounge for a two worthy local causes chat if you prefer.

Our website gives further information: www.HowardDorisCentre.org.uk

21 Lochcarron Golf Club AGM (17th November 2017) report Thanks to everyone who attended our AGM and prize-giving. We had a super, fun and enjoyable evening. The first and most important stage of which was the AGM. Roddie ably guided us through the agenda beginning with a review of the year which has included continued improvement in the quality of our greens in spite of the difficult weather conditions; successful open competitions; coaching sessions and the raising of our profile by hosting a Highland Council golf day. We are fortunate, in a very difficult financial environment where many golf clubs are really struggling, to be able to continue to invest in our course and the equipment needed for improving it. Both Roddie and Dave Whittingham wished to emphasise to everyone that the committee works hard for the benefit of the club. If any member should have an issue, please raise it directly with the committee who can then address it as a group.Ian Cattanach reviewed the financial position, which is slightly improved compared with last year. Roddie highlighted that there may be a significant increase in SGU subscriptions next year, but in the meantime, it was agreed that our own subscriptions should be held at the same level as last year, ie Men £150; Ladies £130; Country members £110; Students £75; and Juniors £30. Next year's Committee was elected as follows: Chairman - Roddie MacLennan Secretary - Wang Liston Treasurer - Ian Cattanach Men's Captain - Dave Whittingham Ladies Captain - Ank Carins th Greens - Thomas Watson 100 Birthday Celebrations Membership Secretary - David Hunter Peggi Michael celebrated her Member - Andrew MacKenzie 100th birthday on Further members may also be co-opted. th June and Karen were thanked for their service on 15 November 2017. the committee, hard work and commitment to the On that day she was surrounded club. It was agreed that the membership would be by all her family from near and notified of the date of committee meetings via the far and was presented with a club noticeboard and the web site. 100th birthday card by the Lord Dave then presented the men's prizes, a significant proportion of which seemed to go to a certain Lieutenant and her deputy from Andrew MacKenzie! Well done Andrew, and well HRH the Queen. The following done to all the other prize-winners and competitors day she was given a birthday in this year's fixtures. June presented the ladies prizes, a significant party at the Howard Doris proportion of which seemed to go to a certain Centre, which was an Karen Starr! Well done Karen, and thanks and well outstanding success. done to all the other lady prize-winners and competitors this year. Many thanks to the staff for June was presented with a delightful bouquet by their kindness, professionalism the ladies in recognition of her hard work and and excellent catering. diligence as Ladies Captain. Finally, we had a fun quiz, which was won by a Many thanks from the Michael team including a certain Andrew MacKenzie!!! Did family. Q, David and Kenny deliberately go on Andrew's team I wonder??

22 23 24 25

Winter Opening

November – February ** Monday – Saturday

10.00 – 5.00pm

Open Evenings for Bookings Only

Please Book your table before 5.00pm – 01520

722488 Enjoy a relaxing morning coffee, Light Lunch,

Sunday Afternoon Tea. For evenings book your table for a special night out or just a table for two to relax 10.00 – 3.00pm before the Christmas season. After dinner John

Closedown Period ** will help you to choose a great Malt from our beautifully stocked glass cabinets and settle 26th December – Mid down to a cosy seat by the log fire. January Christmas Malt Selection now in Stock. Temporary Closedown will occur November & December for short periods due to planned Kitchen Maintenance and the installation of our new

Double Glazing to replace existing Restaurant Windows.

Bringing to you a much

cosier Restaurant

Kind Regards

Clare, John & Team

Carron Restaurant

26 Bringing Local History Alive – Lochcarron Primary School and the Kirkton Settlement Filming Project Enabling all our pupils to participate actively in community based learning is a “key” element of what makes the school News from Lochcarron and such an exciting and inclusive environment. Over the last few months we Applecross Primary Schools have formed an innovative new partnership Naidheachdan bho Bun-sgoiltean with the Lochcarron Community A’Chomraich agus Loch Carrann Development Company, specifically Congratulations to Applecross School – looking at how we can take our learning Winners of the best Primary School in outside the traditional classroom. Scotland for their Reuse v Recycling video Applecross Primary School has won a national competition promoted by Community Resources Network Scotland; the national reuse, repair and recycle charity. The children were asked to create a video in the style of a television commercial that explained the difference between “Reuse” and “Recycle” to the public, imagining that it would be shown during primetime television. The children wrote scripts and created storyboards showing different scenarios where they apply the “Reuse” and “Recycle” concepts. They then filmed these in the style of old silent films – complete with Charlie Chaplin style This has led to the creation of a highly over-acting! The children reflected that their professional film project which focuses on playground very much operates on a “reuse” the fictional story of a family back in 1872 basis; pots, pans, an old kayak, plastic tubing, being cleared from their home from the fishing equipment, and a panoply of other “junk” have all found imaginative uses and now ruins of the settlement at Kirkton. many of these made it into the video. Two children, Morganna Fraser and Mazie McCowan (P4 and P5) travelled down to the CRNS Conference in Dunblane to be presented a certificate and £300 prize money by compare Fred. The school hopes to use the money to buy a child-friendly video camera to make more films. Please view their video on YouTube, https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6kumEYI4Mk

All the children and staff have very positively embraced all of the skills and roles which are required when one starts to undertake such a large developing project. Not only have the children acted, but they have been the costume designers, film crew, editors, screen writers, singers/ Applecross pupils Morganna Fraser, Mazie McCowan, mother Sarah McCowan, and Head Teacher Mr. Gill proudly receive (Continued on page 28) their certificates and prizes from comedian Fred MacAulay 27 (Continued from page 27) Our Piping Champion – Congratulations musicians directors etc. etc. to make it a Sasha Westerduin complete learning experience which is very It is great to observe when a young person much driven by the children themselves. shows hard work, passion, and resilience Indeed, these opportunities have only come truly to develop their skills and talents to about with the fantastic support and the next level. Such is the case of enthusiasm of Lynda Beveridge from the Lochcarron P7 pupil Sasha Westerduin Community Development Company, all the who has become a really accomplished staff from the School, and the local piper. residents who have given their time, These talents were never so ably illustrated knowledge and experience so freely. This is as when Sasha entered the recent highly what community based education and contested Colonel Jock Macdonald Memo- lifelong learning should be all about, with rial Piping Competition in Portree. the cultural impact and skills learnt across After a tiring and long day Sasha came all generations and build stronger away with first place trophies in two sections - the March under 14 years and Piobaireachd Ground under 14 Years. This is a really fantastic result, and is a just reward for all the hard work Sasha puts in, combined with all the support of her family. Well done to all…!!!!!

relationships with our children as they become young inspirational adults. Look at the fantastic images which show the children preparing and recording the film soundtrack. Thank You Ishbel Mackenzie, Rose Cottage Lochcarron, would like to thank the many kind people who visited her, sent flowers, cards and get well wishes during her recent stay in both Raigmore and Broadford hospitals. A big thank you to all the staff at both hospitals for their dedication and care Sasha Westerduin proudly shows off the first place section trophies she won at the recent Colonel Jock throughout my stay. Macdonald Memorial Piping Competition in Portree

28 29 30 31 32 33 Community Councils’ Minutes Comhairle Choimhearsnachd Gearr-chunntais

MINUTES (draft) of LOCHCARRON COMMUNITY super-fast services being available to all by 2021. COUNCIL - (email) 2/11/17 Scottish Development Centre have an upcoming Meeting Monday 13th November 2017 community council research workshop in Elgin on Tuesday 28th 7:30 pm Village Hall November. The previously advertised Inverness workshop was Members Present: cancelled. The project is looking at how community councils can Mrs Helen Murchison BEM (Chair), Mrs Emma McCallum be developed and enhanced to have a more transparent impact in (Secretary), Miss Hannah Cundiff), Cdr Q Banting RN (Minute the democratised process. Sec) Also Present: - (email) 13/11/17 Alec Cormack forwarding email 8/11/17 reporting on meeting of Highland Tourism Partnership and Cllr Kate Stephen, Ms Janet Price, Mr Robert MacInnes, Mrs Aileen Grant subsequent survey on how best to apply for some of the £6m Apologies: tourism infrastructure funding available from the Scottish Mr Roger Cundiff (Treasurer), Mr John Macpherson, Mr Alec Government. Cormack, PC Craig Allan Approval of Minutes Monday 9th October 2017: Lochcarron Community Fund update The minutes were accepted unanimously as a true record. Matters Arising: Council were furnished with up to date accounts and record of nd The Chair reported that matters remain “ongoing” in relation to the funding by the LCCRA in support of their project for a 2 skiff. It chalet at Kishorn. A planning application is expected shortly. Cllr was agreed unanimously to release the cheque to them from the Stephen asked to be kept informed if there were any objections to LCF for £2037. this application. Chair’s Report: Police Feedback: Flowers and birthday good wishes had been sent on behalf of the Community to Mrs Peggy Michael on attaining her 100th Council understand that the reason that PC Craig Allan was not birthday. present was because he was getting married in Lanzarote!! Council There is a problem with dying fish at the Salmon Sea Farm site in recorded their warm best wishes and congratulations to him and Loch Kishorn. It had been hoped that the site manager Mr W. Susan and hope the weather was a little better there than here! Fulton and his boss Mr John Rae would be present to explain matters to the community. Hopefully they will be here at next Q Banting said he had received the detailed results of the Speed month’s Council meeting. Survey in Lochcarron from PC Craig Allan which he mistakenly Planning Applications: The Community Council has been notified of the following thought had been sent to all Council members; he will forward to planning applications: all directly after the meeting. A summary of the results from PC 10th Oct list Modification of Obligation to extend requirement to Allan is as follows: establish and maintain access visibility splays to all future planning 1. A896 Lochcarron, Shinty pitch. permissions for this site. Land to North of Shore House, Ardarroch, At this location the speeding problem does not occur in big Kishorn, numbers. The average (from 5days week) 85th percentile speed in 17th Oct List Westbound direction from Lochcarron is 32.4mph, the Eastbound 1.List Erection of visitor information centre and associated site 29.3mph and is no bigger/lower than 10% of speed limit at the works, Smithy Community Hub, moment. A standard 85th percentile analysis indicates a speed 2.Siting of portable building for medical practice annexe. Ferguson limit of 30 mph. Obviously the speed differential is much wider. Medical Centre After more detailed analysis of data, hour by hour, some drivers 24th Oct List Erection of three houses (Renewal of planning could go faster than 40mph. The fastest recorded was driving over permission 14/03508/PIP) Land 100M SE Of Camus Na Feannag, 50mph. Sanachan Shore, Kishorn (Critical 85th percentile speed is the speed at or below which 85% 31st Oct and 7th Nov Lists of the traffic is moving. Studies show that the 85th percentile speed Nothing relevant is the one characteristic of traffic speeds most nearly conforming to a safe and reasonable limit. Speed limits higher than the critical Treasurer’s Report: speed will make very few additional drivers “legal” for each 5mph The Treasurer submitted the financial statement where current that the posted speed limit is increased. Speed limits lower than the balances stand at: critical speed will make a large number of reasonable drivers Community Council: £2136.50 “illegal” for each 5mph increment that speed is reduced.) Community Fund: £8593.34 2. A896, Lochcarron, Primary School. As can be seen, the annual disbursement from the Allt a Chonais In this location the data collected shows much higher speed on the Hydro Scheme to the LCF of £8593.34p has now been received. road than speed limit sign. The average (from 5days week) 85th Secretary’s Report: percentile speed in Eastbound direction from Lochcarron is Correspondence received: 37.6mph, the Westbound 36.7mph and is much closer to 40mph - (email) Kenny Maclean - road surface 2 miles east of Glencarron limit. A standard 85th percentile analysis indicates a speed limit of Lodge is in poor state. Some repair work has been done (quick 40mph. In this case we have Primary School which justified a emergency repair). (Reported to Highland Council Ref FS speed limit to be lower to 30mph or even 20mph part-time. The 60268728) problem in my opinion is the road layout/design and lack of - (email) 10/10/17 Achnasheen - Achintee 33kV wood pole physical traffic calming measures like chicanes/raise tables/humps refurbishment. Routine repairs to existing network (as it spans etc. Good point is that in period of opening and closing school the adjacent to both A832 and A890). This work is intended from speed drops significantly under 30mph. It could be caused by 17/10 and will continue into January. parents who drive slower and parking the cars on both side of the - (email) Countryside Alliance Awards 2017 www.countryside- road, naturally narrowing the road and in consequence lowering alliance.org the speed. Can nominate several times, takes minutes, nominate a local food Any Other Business producer, retailer, post office, rural enterprise, butcher or pub. - (email) 30/10/17 Lesley Gallagher (communications - digital From the floor Mr Robert MacInnes reported that the Selfie Highland and Islands). Update on fibre broadband roll out for Highland area. The current roll out will continue into next year - Telephone Box at Kishorn is flourishing and proving a success. they have reached more houses than the original contract target. He will be considering expanding the idea with possibly Going forward, the Scottish Government has committed to merchandising and trying to link up with other boxes across the

34 region. Perhaps an idea like “Munro bagging” only in this case it will ask PC Allan to attend our next meeting in February. would be Selfie Telephone Box bagging! Cllr Kate Stephen raised a number of points: Road matters/ Village upkeep. She drew attention to the initiative that she and several other Street lighting. Councillors wish to form a separate Regional Committee to A resident has suggested that the lights might be turned off for part of the night as a way of reducing HC costs. Kate reported that street represent Ward 5. At present the latter’s voice in its present light brightness has already been partially reduced by HC as a committee is overwhelmed by the numerical superiority of the savings, without undue repercussions. LED street lights are being other members. She believes that particularly when it comes to installed over Highland as a way to reduce environmental impact & funding apportionment, the Ward loses out with the present system. costs. Kate will find out when these might be installed in Shieldaig. The barrier at the Play park is now fixed. An outbreak of Grass cutting. Japanese Knotweed has been found there. As requested, Kate has provided a detailed map of where grass cutting should be carried out around Nanny’s. This has been passed She has various roads and parts thereof to receive priority repairs on to Nomie & Lynn. including at Achnashellach and Lochcarron itself. She undertook to Drains at Temperance Brae have been cleared. see if grit bins could be placed on the Achintraid road to mitigate Cattle grids. the lack of gritting. Apart from the 2 cattle grids in the village which have been Cllr Stephen is arranging a visiting tour to the Ward by the reported as defective, the cattle grid going south a mile outside the Director of Community Services. She is intending to point out to village is flooded. Kalie will report. him the various infrastructure problem areas, so he can see for Viv has reported a hole on the roadside caused by the roots of a fallen tree just south of the flooded cattle grid. Heavy rainfall could himself. She will advise the date of this to Council members and cause erosion to the edge of the road leading to its’ potential would be very keen for Community Councillors and members of collapse. the public to meet the Director and point out individual concerns at Kalie will put information on the village noticeboard about how points along the tour. people can report road issues. This was part of a general discussion This engendered a lengthy and wide-ranging discussion with we had about local CC’s sharing information about similar road additional contributions from the floor about speeding in the issues. village and particularly also through Kishorn. In the latter case High speed fibreoptic cabling along coastroad. We are no clearer as to whether the coast road residents can benefit various local self-help measures were aired and Kate Stephens from the cable in the future. Kalie has not had a reply to her letter agreed to ascertain the legality and procedures for some of them. It to Ian Blackford, MP. was agreed that including these matters in the Director’s tour was essential. HSCHT open meeting 10th November A person has contacted Cllr Stephen about the purchase of the Plans were made for this event. A steering group has been set up East Church for use as a base for courses, storage and production and will have their first meeting with a representative from HIE on 15th November 7pm in the Hall. in film making. All agreed that this should be encouraged and was a promising development. Community Resilience Plan. Debrillator. Survey. Kate Stephen drew attention to a recent publication of a novel Viv has found out that a donation of £1500 is expected if we wish based on Lochcarron by the Spanish author Arturo Fuentes de la to purchase a defibrillator. It was agreed to fund the defibrillator, Orden called “Also the Demons Tremble” It sounded a gripping training and installation costs from the ring-fenced resilience monies the CC has. Viv will arrange training on a Saturday. (Post- tale of drowned maidens and water kelpies……in Spanish! th meeting: arranged for 9 December in Shieldaig Hall). Kalie will finalise the household emergency plan survey and this The Meeting Closed at 8:50 p.m. will be distributed house-to-house soon. Date of next meeting: Monday 11th December 2017 at 7:30 pm Lochcarron Village Correspondence. Hall (Upper) Kate said that the Ward 5 Councillors want to set up a new Area Members of the public are most welcome to attend Community Committee for Wester Ross, Strathpeffer & Lochalsh rather than Council Meetings which are held on the second Monday of each being “swamped” in a much bigger area committee that didn’t month. represent the west coast’s different interests; also to give a fairer share of expenditure. Shieldaig CC thought this sounded an Minutes (draft) of Shieldaig Community Council (SCC) excellent idea. Meeting Tuesday 7th November 2017 7.30pm. Church Hall. Kate is arranging for the Director of Community Service, William Gilfillan, to visit this area in December and asked if we would like Members present: Kalie Wilkinson (Chair), Claire Munday to meet him. He wants to understand how to support communities (Secretary), Duncan Carmichael, Tom Tindale, Viv MacLennan, who want to do more for themselves. We said we would be happy Cllr. Kate Stephen. to meet up. Apologies: Lisa Fraser (Treasurer), Susan Holmes. Kate explained that there is a review of business rates being made by the Scottish Government. It is a concern that organisations, such Approval of Minutes of previous meeting on 3rd October Tuesday. as Highlife Highland which provide services on behalf of HC, may Matters arising. not be exempt from these rates and therefore penalized. Protecting sea eagles on Shieldaig Island. In addition to the actions recorded in October’s CC meeting, it was Planning matters. suggested that in any reprint of the Shieldaig sea eagle leaflet it Duncan reported: 17/05076/FUL - Tree Tops, Shieldaig, would be good to emphasize that camping and walking on the Strathcarron. Erection of log cabin in garden ground”. island is discouraged. This voluntary code also could be promoted in the Shieldaig Booklet 2018. Claire will contact Lucy. Finances. Circulation of CC minutes. No change from previous month. Claire routinely sends copies of the draft CC minutes to Cllr. Kate Stephen, PC Allan, Robbie Bain, Kenny Maclean, An Carrannach, AOB and to Ann Barton who manages www.shieldaig.info. It has been brought to the Council’s attention that a caravan has been parked near Ob Mheallaidh for some time. Police matters. Tom is meeting up with Douglas Gibson, who liaises with NC500, PC Allan has reported back the results from the speed monitoring and will be raising environmental concerns e.g. prevalence of carried out in October. Based on this information, he says no action convoys, motorhome chemical toilets. is warranted. Kate Stephen has asked that the monitoring be Fish farms. It looks unlikely that there will be an opportunity to repeated during next year’s busy period. We would like to have bring interested parties together as was suggested in June’s CC more detail on how and where the monitoring was carried out. We minutes. There is a possibility that Richard Greene may investigate the wider environmental impact. Claire will contact Wester Ross

35 Biosphere since they have a marine, as well as, a land remit. Claire will look into updating Shieldaig Community Council webpage, and Tom will help advise. Geese for Sale Date of next meeting: 6th February 2018 Tuesday 7.30pm. All welcome. Shieldaig CC meets on the first Tuesday at 7.30pm in the months of September, October & November, and Yearling Pilgrim Geese from February, March, April, June(AGM). Anyone wishing to contact Kalie Wilkinson: email address: males and females available [email protected] Tel:01520 755 291 or Claire Munday Tel:015250 755206 By post: Kinloch, Shieldaig, Strathcarron IV54 8XJ Good laying stock

These geese are easy to handle ANDREW fun and friendly HENDERSON They also make excellent watchdogs

For further details, please contact Peacefully, after a short Gillian Patnson illness at Cornhill 01520 733227 Macmillan Centre, Perth [email protected] on Sunday 5th November 2017, Andrew, dearly loved husband of Margaret,

formerly of Greenways, Dal A'Chladaich and youngest son of the late Notification of a meeting to Capt. and Mrs F M Appoint a New Grazing Committee Henderson, Blairgowrie Shieldaig Common Grazings and Lochcarron. Shieldaig Village Hall 5th December 2017 7pm

Proposed Assignation of a Croft COFFEE and BOOKS at GARVE HALL Mary Finlay Murchison is 10.30a.m. to 1.00p.m. applying to assign the tenancy of Drop in, for a blether and a cup of the croft at Ribhuachan, Locharron coffee. to Hamish John Bennet of 57A We would appreciate a donation of £1, John Street, Helensburgh G84 9JY for coffee and biscuits. Written comments from those with All are very welcome. Exchange a book or pick a book for a relevant interest (which may be free. made public) to: Crofting Hope to see you. Commission, Leachkin Road, Saturday 2nd December 2017 Inverness IV3 8NW, 16th December 2017 13th January 2018 [email protected] by 27th January 2018 29/12/17 10th February 2018

36 37 38 39 HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION HOLIDAY COTTAGE TO LET - ELMBANK, LOCHCARRON Broom Cottage is a detached bungalow in Lochcarron available throughout the year as Situated in a quiet lane and enjoying self-catering accommodation on a weekly stunning views across Loch Carron, Elmbank basis; part-weeks are also offered. is a traditional detached stone cottage set in its own delightful country gardens. Broom Cottage sleeps up to four people in one This attractive cottage is beautifully presented double bedroom and one twin-bedded room. throughout. The pretty living room has wood effect floors with lovely rugs, and a welcoming A modern property, equipped to a very high wood-burning stove. There is a separate dining standard, it has everything required for a room with comfortable seating as well as a sofa bed for extra guests. comfortable stay. Free use of an Internet link The three bedrooms on the first floor are bright is included in the accommodation price. and cosy and all rooms have superb views across to the sea loch and the surrounding hills. Broom Cottage offers ample off-street parking The gardens are a real feature of the cottage and a pleasant garden. with masses of flowering shrubs. No smoking is allowed in the property. Pets are welcome by prior arrangement. 07960 443475 www.broomcottagelochcarron.co.uk [email protected] tel: Louise Martin 01520 722607 www.lochcarroncottage.co.uk Elmbank Cottage, Church Street, Lochcarron, Ross-shire IV54 8YQ

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