THE ROTHESIAN

March 2014 Sponsored by Stuart Paul Issue No 65

Stuart is a time served painter who did his apprenticeship with Jim Suth- erland of Craigellachie. He spent his early school days at Primary School and his secondary years at Speyside High. After he became a time served painter he worked with a number of painter firms gaining more experience before finally tak- ing the plunge ten years ago of set- ting up his own business in Rothes. For the first three years he worked on his own before his primary school classmate Keith Laing came to work for him. They have worked together for the last seven years doing inter- nal and external painting, decorating and taping within private homes and for developers and companies in the Northeast, the Highlands and at times in the Western Isles. One of Stuart’s interests is his garden where he grows vegetables and fruit for home consumption but also for showing at the Rothes Flower Show. His passion is for growing potatoes for the local shows. His other interests are the Football Team and his dog Sasha. He shares his football interest with Keith and the other Rothes Tartan Army boys who have travelled all over Europe to support their team. Nearer to home he can be seen regularly walking Sasha, his Dober- man round the Spey or up the Dounie.

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] ROTHES PRIMARY SCHOOL ROTHES BALL GROUP

The existing homework policy has now been updat- It was with some incredulity that we realised that it ed and is as follows: was five years ago, that the first ‘taster day’ for a new BALL group was held in the Kirk Hall on a late Feb- Homework Policy ruary Tuesday, which was attended by quite a number In Rothes Primary School we encourage the formation of partnerships between home and school. One of the of interested folk over sixty. By the summer break, a ways in which this has been established is through fully functioning group, standing on its own feet, was homework activities. These activities have to be mean- operating on ‘term time Tuesday morning from 10am ingful and interesting, as well as providing useful rein- to 12.15pm. The birthday was marked by early games forcement of class work recently undertaken. with balloons while tea time had cakes which disap- In Rothes Primary School homework activities have peared remarkably quickly. This was followed by a been carefully considered to: somewhat noisy beetle drive. Ensure progression from P1-P7 However, before the group reached this fifth birthday, Further develop learning and teaching practising new skills there had been an active programme with talks from Reinforcing the content of the daily curriculum REAP re energy saving and Leo Kendall on diamonds, Do some independent research entertainment from Pat Fraser and Jim Bartlett and a To show parents what is currently being studied in DVD day, a noisy Hoy Bingo and much quieter days school making cards and fabric painting. We are well versed Be varied in subject matter and type to stimulate and in our local whales and dolphins and looking forward maintain interest to Board Games, Easter Crafts and music from Ian Train children to set time aside at home for study Greig and co. Homework is monitored by class teachers and the head teacher, and is audited by pupil and parent ques- The Easter Break follows the pattern of the school hol- tionnaires. idays and planning for the summer session will in- Each school year a homework policy is given to par- clude some outings – locations and dates to be con- ents which outlines the content and expected length of firmed. time to be spent on homework. These policies are amended annually by the class teachers to reflect cur- rent practice.

It is our aim at Rothes Primary School that homework is achievable, appropriate to the pupil’s level of ability WALK – ROTHES and, above all, an enjoyable, shared experience. This group which meets on Thursday morning at 10am THE GIVING MACHINE in the Square outside the old post office Aquaplay area has been really fortunate since the New Year in that Give £££ to our school without spending a penny! each day has been dry, and we have managed a walk If you join The Giving Machine, you can shop online with many major UK stores and they’ll donate a per- each week. It must be emphasised that it is not a group centage of the sale to the school. It costs nothing to who ‘eat up the miles’ but one to encourage folk to get join and registration only takes a couple of minutes. out and take a walk at their own pace. We have usual- Please make sure when you register that you choose ly had our ‘post walk refreshments’ at Simpsons, but Rothes Primary School, Rothes as your chosen school. have also been to Irene’s Tearoom and up to Glen Click on: Grant Gardens. We have been joined by new walkers www.TheGivingMachine.co.uk recently – are you going to join us too? The Giving Machine is a not for profit company. Thanking you in anticipation.

2 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul SPEYSIDE STRENGTH AND BALANCE

A steady loyal following of about 14 has formed over the short time the Strength and Balance group has been in existence. Led by Louise, they meet on Friday mornings at 9.30am in the Kirk Hall, with the aim of improving core strength, balance and fitness in the over 60s in a project which is a joint initiative between the Health Board and Moray Council although it is We would like to thank the Kirk Hall for accommodat- now ‘independent’. Many of the exercises are done ing us during the renovation of the Grant Hall. Special seated, but those done whilst standing always have a thanks to Colin for all his hard work during this time. chair close by for support if required. We are now back at our normal time and date in the The group celebrated its third birthday recently with a Grant Hall and look forward to parents and carers old cake especially baked by Kathleen. It did not last long! and new joining us on a Friday morning from 9.30am Thanks Kathleen. until 11.30am. Thank you to all parents, carers and friends of Rothes Toddlers for coming along to the clean-up and sorting of toys to enable us to get back into the hall. nd ROTHES DIARY Coming up we have a Coffee Morning on the 22 March 2014 in the Kirk Hall at 10am. We really ap- When the Post Office closed in the Square, the diary preciate all the help and support we receive from the was forced to seek a new home where it was easily Community and beyond and hope to see you all there. seen by as many as possible. The diary is now located Please feel free to join us on Facebook to keep up with in the side window of Simpsons where it will be up- all our latest news. dated as often as possible. Hopefully most of you will find its new location convenient and helpful. Updates are aimed at monthly hopefully. POST OFFICE

We were sad to see the old Post Office in the Square SENIOR CITIZENS go, and would like to give our thanks to all the Post Office ladies who served the community so well for so We are in the second half of our season and everyone many years. seems to be enjoying the fortnightly meetings with tea, The up side to this is that we still have a Post Office entertainment and a blether. There are still a few va- counter in the town. We wish the McColl’s staff all the cancies for those who wish to come along. best. Coming up in April 19th is our Coffee morning, and in May we end our season with a bus run and lunch. A fine day oot. Date and venue to be confirmed. THE COTTAGE

The Cottage will be opening for visitors in April, in time for the Easter holidays, with opening times to be advertised in local shops. We will be contacting our volunteers soon. If anyone else wishes to help, please contact Pearl or Irene, or drop a note into the Cottage.

3 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul ROTHES TENNIS CLUB Sunday 6th April to compete for the ever popular Kenny Mackie trophy. Three courts have been The club has entered the various Highlands Dis- booked from 10am to 1pm. It will be a very trict leagues. Teams will be playing in the senior busy, interesting and exciting three hours. If you competitions (Men’s and Mixed) and also com- are a Senior member, and are interested in taking peting in the junior events - one team at the 14 part, please contact Hamish. Intermediates aged 12 and under level and two in the twelve and under & 13 will only be accepted if their parent(s) is age group. Fixtures begin the week commencing participating. st Monday April 21 . The Annual General Meeting is to be held on The 14s and 12s teams will be kitted out in blue Monday 14th April in the clubhouse, starting 7pm. polo-shirts this year thanks to a sponsorship deal Meanwhile, we continue our fund-raising efforts with ‘The Rothes Butcher’. Hugh and Caroline’s with a QUIZ NIGHT in the Social Club on Sat- decision to support us is greatly appreciated. urday March 22nd (7pm for a 7.30pm start) and a Hugh, of course, has had a long association with COFFEE MORNING in the Kirk Hall on March the sport in the town and is the club chairman. 29th. All welcome to both events. Why not come He is well- respected in the wider tennis playing along and support us. circles of Moray and the Highlands through play- ing for the club’s teams and his, very often, suc- cessful participation in the local tournaments at Grantown and Elgin. Peter Scott designed a new club logo based on ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB. the Rothes (Leslie) crest which will be on the chest of the shirts. Peter also created, with a little The Open Triples tournament had 40 triples competing help from Michelle Ness, a logo for Hugh and for the Forsyth Cup which is the best entry the club Caroline’s business which is to be displayed on has had for many years with bowlers travelling from the right arm. within the area Rhynie, and Dunphail. During the first week of the Easter holidays the The winners were Ashley Dalgarno, Karen Dalgarno courts will be the scene of a coaching programme and Davie Bell from Drummuir who defeated the organised by Moray Tennis Forum and backed by triple of Davie Cameron, George Fraser and Lottery Funding. Sessions will be held from Mon- Brian Davidson in close and keenly contested final. day to Friday with four separate classes being The semi-finalists were Isobel Dawson, Edna Hendry held each day. As places may be limited, if your and Denny Cameron from Craigellachie and Stuart child is interested, please book early. Contact McKenzie, Sandy Dunn and Fred McDonald from Hamish McBain on 01340 831432 / 07769 554923 Drummuir. Club coaching will restart on Friday 25th April. The bowling club appreciates the sponsorship received Club sessions will begin Tuesday April 8th for 11 from Glen Grant Distillery, McKerron & Milne and year olds up, and Wednesday afternoon (9th) for Forsyths, which enables the Rothes bowlers to hold p1 & p2 (3.15pm to 4.15pm) and p3, p4 & p5 (4.20 this tournament. – 5.30pm). A senior club night will be held on Monday 31st March, 7th and 14th April. ANYONE INTERESTED, PLEASE COME ALONG AT 6.30pm. Contact Michelle 07765 353585 for further details. Alternative arrange- ments will be made for the rest of the season as Mixed league fixtures are played on Mondays. A large group of members are travelling to the indoor courts in Westburn Park, Aberdeen, on

4 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul THE GRANT HALL

Well, there’s not much left to do now. Mainly some tweaking and a wee bit of titivation. The front steps are being left till last. We want to ensure there is no chance of frost as that would undo the repair work.

The user groups are all back in and we now have Zumba classes on a Wednesday night. The Boy’s Brigade, after 40 years at the school, are also starting with us this month. We look forward to welcoming them. They’re on the lookout for new recruits, as are the Air Cadets. Why not pop along and find out what it’s all about. You might just enjoy it.

We also have a new Bookings Secretary, Kaz Malcolm. So if you would like to book any of our facilities for your meeting, party, wedding, fund raiser, etc. give her a call on 01340 831976 Our bookings are already way up on previous years and we are looking forward to a Ceilidh, a Concert (Tara French), a Spey- side High School Evening, Musical evenings, Discos, 2 Wed- dings, Homecoming Events, The Annual Flower Show, Birth- day Parties. The list goes on.

There are still a few tickets left for the Musical Extravaganza on the 29th March. Two of the finest bands ever to grace a stage at the Belladrum Festival. Contact Raymond 07591 424924 or look on Facebook for Mad March Music Extrava- ganza. We have people coming from as far afield as Falkirk, Fraserburgh and Invergordon for this one.

And finally, a huge thank you to Pauline Younie for once again organising a very successful Hogmanay Dance. This year Pauline presented us with £5085.00 which goes a long way to meeting our running costs.

Thank you all for your continued support and we look for- ward to giving you a warm welcome when you visit.

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 5 WIDGERY sary Year of the show and was staged in the Albert Hall in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and Jenny Widgery, my mother, sadly passed away on Prince Philip. Dennis and I attended the performance 22nd November and I must now keep a promise I had which was a special evening for us and an experience made to her some time ago. This came about after a we shall treasure. While we, unfortunately, did not conversation she had with Pearl who was delivering have our photo taken shaking hands with the Queen, the 30 or so Rothesians my mother posted to ”ex-pat“ Colin did ...... yet another photo for his Nana to cher- Rothesians. Pearl had suggested that I send in a copy ish! of a particular photo my mother had on show in her Last October he visited Afghanistan twice in the mak- living room along with some background to the photo. ing of the programme with Gary Barlow and the troops at Camp Bastion. This was a great experience and although a worrying time for her, she was thrilled to hear his news of it all. She was always so proud of him, of course, especially since he went to London in 2004 with no job. It proved a very tough and lonely few months for him until he got his first break as a runner and has done so well since, graduating to Pro- ducer.

The photos of the other “ chappie “ are of her other grandson, Michael.

The photo is of her grandson Colin shaking hands with Princess Anne after the Royal Variety Show in Man- chester in 2011. Colin was an associate producer in TV in London and had spent months in preparation for the show which happens in November every year . After the show the production team are introduced to the member of the Royal Family in attendance and that year it was Princess Anne. I have also included a fur- ther 3 photos which she subsequently received and of which she was also very proud.

One is of Michael taken while working on the bridge of a container ship while doing his “sea time “ which was part of his training to become a Deck Officer. This was a 3 year course of study he underwent at the The following year, 2012, he was again working on College of Nautical Science in Glasgow. He complet- the Royal Variety Show which was the 100th Anniver-

6 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul ed the course, and the 2nd photo is of his graduation at the SPEYGIRLZ! Glasgow Royal Concert Hall in November 2012. Speygirlz is a new club set up in Rothes for P7 girls across the Speyside high catchment ar- ea. We started last October and now have 13 girls from across the area coming to the church hall in Rothes to have fun and make new friend- ships before moving up to high school after the summer. We are holding a fundraising car boot sale in April (see poster), and would be delighted if you could put this date in your diairies, its only £5 per car and there will be teas and coffees and a cake sale and lots of bargains!

Thanks Karra Laing, Rothes

Last November proved to be a really busy and proud month indeed for the Farquhar family and Nana. At the beginning of 2013, Michael secured a position of 3rd Officer with Swire Pacific Offshore, a large interna- tional company based in Singapore. About 2 weeks be- fore his Nana passed away, Michael was promoted to 2nd Officer and my mother was so proud and overjoyed. Mi- chael, especially, was pleased she knew of his promotion although she couldn’t congratulate him personally as his ship was offshore in the seas around Malaysia. The family had a really happy gathering in October, on Nana’s 88th birthday, just 4 days before she was admitted to hospital. It was a surprise party and Audrey, Michael’s girlfriend, provided a lovely meal. She thoroughly en- joyed herself and it was sad the boys did not have her with us at Christmas. They will miss her terribly, but have many happy memories to cherish as she was such a loving and proud Nana.

Edna Widgery-Farquhar

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 7 HILL WALKING GRANT HALL FUNDRAISERS DISCO

Nearly every day at this time of year there are reports Firstly we’d like to thank everyone who bought tick- of the Mountain Rescue Team being called to find ets, donated raffles and made the night such a great people lost in the hills. I’ve done a lot of hill walking success. An extra big thank you to all of you who in my life and never got into any serious difficulties. dressed up. Pauline Younie won 1st prize for best My pal, Grant Paterson, and I cycled to the hill just dressed and runners-up were Bruno and Shona Brown past the quarry in the Glen of Rothes. After walking and Gareth and Suzanne Steele. We raised £1370.00 up so far we came to a massive basin about two miles for hall funds. So a huge thank-you to you all. The across and as it was a lovely day we decided to walk support from this wee community is second to none. to the other side When we got there we could see You’re all so generous and last night wouldn’t have Glenlatterach dam in the distance. We had a short rest been such a great night without you all. Watch this then turned round to find the basin had completely space for the next one. misted over so we set off in a straight line expecting Debbie Holmes and Linda Duguid to get to the other side, half an hour later we came out of the mist, not where we expected to but about 50 yards from where we went in. We started off again at HOGMANAY DANCE a higher level out of the mist and we eventually came back to our bikes. It had taken an hour longer to get The Hogmanay dance with music by George Gordon back than it did to get there. It just shows how quick- and a great disco by Des - who had everyone up danc- ly the weather can change even on a fine day. ing was a huge success! Thanks Des for giving up On another occasion my son-in-law, his pal and I were your time. With all tickets sold out well in advance, I climbing near Pitlochry. We had left the car at Killie- would like to thank everybody who bought tickets and crankie before climbing Ben Vrackie. When we got attended the dance. The magnificent sum of £5085 to the top it started snowing heavily, so after a short was raised in aid of Grant Hall, with help from the rest Dave and his pal set off walking again. I asked Robertson Trust and Chivas. This is very much appre- them where they were going and they said ‘back to the ciated. I would also like to thank the Rothes Chip Bar car’. I’m going too I said, and set off in a different for donating the potatoes for the stovies and to Irenes direction. Within a few minutes I looked back to find Tea Room for giving up her time to make her deli- them following me. When we got back to the car I cious stovies. Also Walkers for the oatcakes. explained to them that when we had stopped for a rest A massive thanks to Denise McBain and Hilary Cam- I’d noticed the direction which we had come and also eron for selling tickets and organising the raffles, and a big boulder to my right so knew that was the direc- to those who helped to set up and clear up, serve stov- tion to go. ies and do the door. I would also like to thank those When it is snowing it is very easy to lose your bear- who donated raffle prizes. We couldn't have raised ings and to get lost. this amount of money without your support. Thanks once again and hope to bring the bells in with Jimmy Logan you all for 2015. Pauline Younie.

8 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul st th Rothes Diary 1 -5 May Speyside Whisky Festival nd 2 May Mobile Library in Square 1pm to 4pm 3rd May Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club Please note that the diary displayed in the Simp- th sons side window is updated regularly, and takes in 5 May ‘May Day’ Holiday – Schools Closed 9th May Jumble Sale at Linnburn 1.30-3pm changes which occur during the time between the 10th May Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Bowling Rothesian quarterly editions,. Please keep Sandra Club informed of events and meetings as fundraising 17th May Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – Rothes works best with no competition! Parish Church (Christian Aid) Please note the special email address for the diary: 17th May 90s Disco in Grant Hall Rothes Gala [email protected] 17th May Rothes Gala Bingo at Rothes FC Social Club If you would like the diary emailed to you, please 21st May Senior Citizens Outing contact this address 22nd/23rd May Schools Closed for In service 25th May Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Ladies Group March 29th March Scottish Referendum Drop-in 6pm-9pm 22nd March Coffee Morning Baby & Toddlers nd June 22 March Quiz Night in Social Club—Tennis Club nd th 2 June Local Holiday Schools Closed 27 March Doctors Presentation, Church Hall 2pm th th 7 June Coffee Morning at Rothes FC Social Club 28 March Quiz Night Seafield Hotel, Rothes Rovers th th 7 June eve Private Function at Rothes FC Social Club 28 March Schools Close for Spring Break th th 13 June Mobile Library in Square 1pm to 4pm 29 March Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Tennis Club th th 14 June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Golf 29 March Car wash and refreshments at the Fire Club (Junior Section) Station th th 14 June Rothes Gala Cockinch/Henbog Football 29 March Mad Music Extravaganza at Grant Hall – Match & Inter-Pub Challenge details later th th 18 June Afternoon Tea at Linnburn 1.30-2.30 29 March Scottish Referendum Drop-in 11am-3pm 21st June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Moray Mental 29th-30th March Irene’s Good as New, Social Club 10-4 th Health 30 March Mothering Sunday st th 21 June Rothes Gala Dance in Grant Hall 30 March Clocks FORWARD 1 hour for summer 21st June Rothes Ladies Group Outing April st nd 21 June Tombola at Rothes FC Social Club 2 April Afternoon Tea at Linnburn 1.30-2.30 24th June Rothes Gala Musical Evening for over 60s in 4th April Strength and Balance class in Kirk Hall th Kirk Hall 5 April Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club th th 27 June Rothes Gala ‘It’s a Knock-Out’ in the park 6 April Sacrament of Lord’s Supper (both Churches) 28th June Coffee Morning in Rothes Kirk Hall – Rothes 11th April NO STRENGTH and BALANCE class th Parish Church 12 April Church Guild Coffee Morning Kirk Hall th th 29 June Rothes Gala Day 12 April Rothes Tennis Club AGM Clubhouse 7pm 13th April Car Boot Sale, Craigellachie Park, Speygirlz th July onwards 14 April Schools Open after Spring Break th th 4 July Schools Close for Summer Break 17 April Bothy Nights in Rothes FC Social Club 5th July Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club (proposed date) 12th July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Stable and Able 18th April Good Friday – Schools Closed th (Elgin) 18 April NO STRENGTH and BALANCE class th th 19 July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall Speyside Leg Club 19 April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Senior Citizens th th 19 July Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 19 April Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 26th July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall –Rothes Football 20th April Easter Sunday (services at both Churches) th Club 20 April Soup and Sweet in Rothes Kirk Hall 12noon 2nd August Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social Club to 3pm Rothes Gala th th 4 August 2014 100 years since outbreak of World 26 April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Friendship War 1 Group th th 16 August Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 27 April Scottish Referendum Drop-in 11am-3pm 19th August Schools Reopen after Summer Break May

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 9 ROTHES LADIES’ GROUP HOMECOMING

We started off this session with a musical evening fol- Just a wee reminder that the Rothes Council are hold- lowed by a fun quiz on television. Subsequent months ing a Home Coming event on the weekend of 15th, 16th were very interesting with a talk on the Dol- and 17th of August. Events will include a coffee morn- phins and Glassware. Subjects for further nights are ing, a Ceilidh, old Rothes pictures exhibition, a church being booked and we hope to have our summer outing service and a Glen Grant experience. Look out for de- on 24th June, the destination yet to be decided and fi- tails in the June edition. nalized. The Ladies Group meets in the Church Hall on the third Tuesday of the month and new members are always welcome. Margaret Matthews ~ President E-READERS

As the Rothes Library is now closed the Rothes Coun- DOG FOULING cil are looking into providing e-readers for the elderly and housebound. At a recent meeting they had a visit Why winter nights should result in the filthiest pave- from Esther Green who talked on how this could be ments, footpaths and verges – in some cases right be- done. At the meeting she advised us that our first job side the red bins, is a mystery. Why? Free bags are was to find out if anyone required the service so we readily available so there is no excuse for not clearing are making a plea for anyone who requires this service up after your pet. You must know when your pet or anyone who knows someone who does to get in ‘goes’ if you are in full control of the animal. touch with Jim Bartlett at the senior citizens, pop a Clean up after your dog every time – it’s not rocket note into the Cottage or contact Jean Grimshaw, the science! chair.

NEPAL CAKE-AWAY Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far in My name is Susan McCulloch and I live in Rothes. my fundraising for my World challenge trip to Nepal. I have recently started a new business working from Thanks to the Speyside Chaos Crew and the Wind home making novelty cakes, cup cakes & gingerbread Farm trust for their donations If you wish to please houses. Any queries to 07805 557175 or my Face- like my facebook page Alannahs trip to Nepal 2014 book page Cake-away to view cakes. for updates, information and photos when I get back in July. There are three upcoming events a family beetle Many thanks drive on Friday 14 March and Car washing and re- Susan McCulloch freshments on 29th March at the fire station. There is 2b Land Street also a soup and sweet with stalls on Sunday 13 April at Scouts hall. If anybody would like to make raffle prize donations it would be gratefully re- ceived. Thanks again Alannah Allsop ANDREW (DREW) SMITH MEMORIAL SERVICE Lauren Ingram would like to thank all who attended A memorial service will be held in the Rothes Parish and helped at the coffee morning in March. Thanks Church on Saturday 17th May at 2pm to celebrate the also to the church and Colin Munro for all their assis- life of the late Andrew Smith. Andrew was the son of tance. The support was very much appreciated, the late Andrew and Liz Smith, 46 Land Street, £319 was raised towards her ongoing fundraising for Rothes. His wife, Donna, and sons Sean and Scott the Speyside High School trip to Nepal 2014. will be taking his ashes home to be scattered in Rothes.

10 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul ROTHES GALA donate anything for this please contact myself. st Our Prize Bingo is on Saturday 31 May, in the Social We have been very busy since we started up at the end Club, once again any donations, large of small will be of last year. Our first event was a Santa’s Grotto, very much appreciated. which we held in Linnburn daycare centre on the first We are having another musical night in the Kirk Hall, weekend in December. Santa seen over 70 children this night is for the over 60’s, where they can come and the weekend was a great success making over along and enjoy an evening filled with the talented £300. young musicians that we have here in Rothes and sur- rounding areas, and is planned for Wednesday 25th June, at 7pm. If you are planning on attending this evening can you please inform Michelle as we may have to change the venue if there is more demand than there is seats. Also, if you have a talented child that plays a musical instrument and would like to ‘sign them up’ please contact myself on 07765 353585 or Jen on 01340 831201. I’d also like to thank Lodge St John operative 193 Rothes for their kind donation of new tarpaulin for our gala stalls. Gala Day will be held on Sunday 29th June. Please see the Diary for all our event dates. If you have any questions or suggestions or donations please do not hesitate to contact me in any way.

th Thank you for all your support. Our next event was our coffee morning on the 25 January, and I’m sure your all aware the coffee morn- Michelle Ness ings in Rothes are well attended, and once again we Chairperson made over £300. st Rothes Gala We then hosted an 80’s themed disco on the 1 Febru- ary which was a great night had by all. We made over

£800 this night which then pushed us to hold a 90’s SUNDAY 20th APRIL – SOUP & SWEET IN KIRK themed disco on the 17th May, tickets for this disco HALL will be on sale mid March and I urge you to book them soon, thru myself, as they are selling fast al- SATURDAY 17th MAY – 90’S THEME DISCO IN ready. GRANT HALL We then approached the Fire Brigade to have a car wash on 8th February and this again was a great earner SATURDAY 31st MAY – GALA PRIZE BINGO IN for our funds. SOCIAL CLUB I will be doing my photo quiz “Rond the Toon” again, where I will have ‘old’ photos in the shop windows SATURDAY 14th JUNE – HENBOG v COCKINCH and answer sheets will be on sale for £1 from local FOOTBALL, INTERPUB CHALLENGE shops, or myself. This will be towards the end of

March. SATURDAY 21st JUNE – GALA FAMILY DANCE We are hosting a Ladies Evening in Eastbank, on the IN GRANT HALL night of Friday 14th March. We will have a repre- sentative from Bodyshop, Partylite and Phoenix Trad- WEDNESDAY 25TH JUNE – MUSICAL EVENING ing. Tickets are £2 for this evening, which includes a FOR OVER 60’S IN KIRK HALL buffet. There is no obligation to buy, just a night to come along, have a browse through the lovely prod- FRIDAY 27TH JUNE – IT’S A KNOCKOUT ucts and brochures and enjoy a fun night. Tickets GAMES IN THE PARK available from myself.

We are also having a Soup & Sweet on Sunday 20th SUNDAY 29TH JUNE – GALA DAY April in the Kirk Hall, from 11.30-2pm. If anyone can

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 11 NEWS FROM THE CAR SHARE SCHEME always at liberty to refuse a journey if it is inconven- ient for them. Well here we are well into 2014 now and the 10th An- niversary of the Speyside Community Car Share If you live in Rothes, Aberlour, , Glenlivet, Scheme achieving charitable status. , or the surrounding areas and you have dif- It all began in 2004 when a group of friends identified ficulty getting around because of age, disability or a need and decided to do something about it. There infirmity then we might be able to help. were 10 volunteer drivers and 54 member at the start Telephone 01340 831 748 between 9.00am- 5.00pm but it’s grown a bit since then and we now have 19 (Mon.-Fri.) and speak to one of our volunteer teleph- drivers, 4 telephonists and just over 400 members who onists who will give you all the information about eli- are all socially isolated due to age, infirmity or disabil- gibility for becoming a member. ity and who live here in our area where public transport struggles to provide a suitable or accessible service for all. If you are a member and would like to write to us with Dear Pearl a Car Share story of your own then we would be de- lighted to hear from you, the address to write to is Ire- I was walking through a charity shop in Holt, North ne Shaw 90, New Street, Rothes. AB38 7BJ Norfolk, a market town getting quite gentrified now as To celebrate this milestone we hope to be out and it is frequented by Royalty from Sandringham. I liter- about raising awareness (there are still some people ally stopped in my tracks when I saw the iconic pic- who’ve never heard of us), welcoming new members ture of the Rothes Castle and thought –“it canna be!” and hopefully recruiting more drivers. If you are at When the shop lady passed me the plate, I showed her one of the many fetes and galas that are held through- my hoose and of course she had to tell the shop. I sug- out the summer then please look out for us (we might gested we should look for the reaction on my hus- be there) and come and say ‘Hello’, have a go at our band’s face. When Barrie came in his face was also a game or raffle and get to know a bit more about us. If picture. Who would have thought that there was a you know of an event where we might be able to occu- china plate of Rothes. py a small space then please let me know as we would I went online but to date have had no luck finding any really like to meet as many people as possible. more info. I did think it may have been made for a Our supporters have again been very generous this series of villages for souvenirs. I am surprised there past year, Moray Council still assist us with a portion was never one in Ian Clarks. I shall take it up with me of our costs and we have been granted financial assis- next time I am in Rothes. tance and support from Lloyds TSB Foundation for Lesley Munday (Shepherd) Scotland and The Robertson Trust. We also rely very Ps – the reason I was in the charity shop is that I play heavily on local support and most recently we have Mah Jong and was looking for a set so if anyone has a received donations from the Rothes Wind Farm Trust set they want to part with I would appreciate first re- and the Glenlivet and Inveravon Community Associa- fusal. tion. On this subject I would like to express our grati- Editors note:- If anyone has ever owned or seen a tude and pay a special tribute to Rita Marks, from plate like this and know the history we would be de- Tomnavoulin, who was a champion for many and who lighted to hear from you. so recently passed away. Rita was always a supporter of the Car Share Scheme and helped us so much espe- cially through her ‘Tea in the Park’ events. What a sad loss for all those who knew her friendship and benefit- ted so much from her innovative and enthusiastic ef- forts. If you feel you too might like to get involved with us and do something to help the less able bodied people in our community to access the services they require then please get in touch with Irene Shaw on 01340 832 350 or E mail [email protected] for more information. At times we do struggle to fit everyone in and it would be fine to have more people who we can call upon. It isn’t a big commitment as our drivers are

12 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul Good day, everyone! ROTHES F.C. SOCIAL CLUB

My name is Graeme MacFarlane, and I recently was The flat roof at the club has been repaired by Gor- sent a copy of The Rothesian to my home in Okotoks, don Scott and his helpers, the toilet doors have Alberta, Canada by my good cousin Nairn McKinnon. been replaced by Barry Lawson and the outside On page 14 of Issue #64, you printed a poem by my late windows have been done by R J Baker plus a num- father Malcolm Morrison MacFarlane entitled 'Thoughts ber of inside jobs. th O' Hame'. I was very honoured to see his poetry in his The Social Club had the privilege of having an 18 th hometown paper, as he would have been. I'm sure my birthday party for Ross Howard on Saturday 8 Aunt Janis is happy to see it as well. She is still in February which with the help of the family was a Rothes. great success. This was followed by another party st I had never seen the poem before and as I read it, I real- on the 1 March. Irene held a successful good-as- st nd ized it was about a trip we took together to Rothes in new on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February. 1982. I remember it like it was yesterday! The memory The monthly Coffee Mornings held on the first is made even more vivid after bringing my wife Jayne, Saturday of every month have been well attended. and my two loons, Mathew and Kelan to Rothes just this past August. I took them for a walk to the Spey and Coming events dates:- th th along its’ shore, retracing a walk that my Dad and I March 29 and 30 Irene’s Good as New th took. It was pure magic. April 12 Tombola, ( Speyside High School) th Thank you for printing his poem and thanks to Bab's April 17 Bothy Nights (Rothes Church) and Chris at The Seafield Arms for a fantastic stay. It was great to be welcomed in and stay there as my

Grandparents used to own it. Aye, we'll be back. You can take a MacFarlane oot of Rothes, but ye canna keep us awa for long! ROTHES LIBRARY Graeme MacFarlane Three hours every six weeks of a mobile library PS; Not sure why, but my first name was misspelled in van is a poor substitute for 12 hours with internet the poem. No worries. Thanks again for printing it! access, especially with notices coming in about Also, I attached a picture of our latest trip to the Spey developments where forms can be picked up in and one of my Grandpa Malcolm MacFarlane delivering your ‘local library’. coal in Rothes. Unsure of what year though. As Moray Council had a contract with EU Leader to provide Internet access and training for five years, and the library was closed with two years to run, it seemed that the situation should be investi- gated. Contact was made with MEP Ian Hudghton to see if something could be done re the remaining money to provide the training access which was part of the contract through the community, espe- cially as there were people awaiting their turn on the courses. Rothes had the highest uptake rate on computer courses and using the library computers. Mr Hudghton wrote to the EU Commissioner with responsibility for the Leader scheme re this. The Commissioner has now replied - It would appear that the next step is via the Scottish Parliament who administer Leader money for the EU. You can keep up with developments as they hap- pen via the facebook page Save Rothes Library. It would be appreciated if those online would pass on information to those who are not so fortunate please.

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 13 LINNBURN vice will be open to friends and family and the general public for a quick cuppa and a chat. There will be a Hello again, we started the New Year as busy as ever, small raffle on the day. Please feel free to attend and our Christmas sales went well and our cottage window support us. looked really good and thanks for the numerous com- On Friday 9th May we will be holding a “Jumble ments we received. In the run up to Christmas we re- Sale” 1.30pm – 3pm for which we will be taking do- ceived a large donation from a local couple, to whom nations for, from April we would like to extend our very grateful thanks, On Wednesday 18th June we will be holding another Chris Morrison and Katy Anderson raised £730 for us “Afternoon Tea” with the same details as before. through a dance that they organised in town, some of In between these dates we are hoping to join in the this money was used to show service users the Christ- “Tattie Bogles” again which had a lot of stiff competi- mas decorations / lights. We also had our own fund tion last year, but we hope to win something again this raiser mainly through family and friends of service year. users of a Christmas Squares raffle, with prizes being Again thanks for all ongoing support and look forward donated, this raised £304 so we would to extend to seeing you soon from all at Linnburn thanks to all friends and family members that support- ed us in this. The “sales table” is always ongoing and is a steady source of funds for us so again thanks to all who pop in and purchase items, not only do we have the items on sale but we have a large selection of do- nated books to browse though and purchase for a do- nation. TRUANT On the 9th December we were invited down to the pri- mary school to watch a “Christmas Show” it was very Wee Sandy in the corner, sits greetin’ on a stool good and enjoyed by all who attended. rd And sair the laddie rues, playin’ truant frae the On 23 December we were entertained by local young school, lass Lesley Nicoll who came along with her accordion Then ye’ll learn frae silly Sandy, wha’s gotten sic a (and her mum!) and played away for over an hour to the service users. Lesley is very talented and her play- fricht, ing was a treat to listen to. Sae, dae nothing thro’ the day, that may guar ye greet Our Christmas Party we had in the church hall with a at nicht. visit from Father Christmas who bought a present for each service user, and we had entertainment from The He durna venture hame noo, nor play, tho’ eve so fain, Merry Minstrels’ who were as energetic as ever, the And ilka ane he met wi’, he thoucht them sure to ken: party was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The meal we had was supplied by “Irene’s Fayre” and was extremely And started at ilk wh’m tho’ it was broid daylicht, good – especially the pudding !!! On the day we had Sae, dae nothing thro’ the day, that may guar ye greet help from our volunteers, and the church hall warden at nicht. Colin Munro, without these people the day would have been very difficult so again thanks to them as well. What fules are wilfu’ bairns, wha misbehave frae This party and the presents are funded though the hame, funds that we raise also, as well as trips etc in the sum- Ther’s something in the briest tho’ that tells them mer time. In the New Year we celebrated Burns Night with en- they’r to blame, tertainment from Andy McCormack and “friends” an And then when comes the gloamin’, they’r in a wee fu’ afternoon of Doric rhyme and song again enjoyed by flicht, all in attendance on the day. Sae, dae nothing thro’ the day, that may guar ye greet Upcoming events – at nicht. This year we will be celebrating the 100th birthday of 3 of our service users, for which there will be a marked occasion later in the year, but we feel that this is a giant milestone having 3 service users at this age. nd On Wednesday April the 2 from 1.30pm – 2.30pm, we will be having an “Afternoon Tea”, where the ser-

14 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul FUTURE OF ROTHES MEDICAL CENTRE WIND FARM FUND

On the retiral of Dr Norman Johnston on the 31st The closing date for applications to the Fund is creep- March 2014, Rothes Medical Centre will merge with ing up on us so if you are planning an application The Maryhill Practice in Elgin Health Centre. The please get it to the Secretary fairly soon.The closing present Reception Staff, Mrs Louise Kelman and Mrs date is 24th March so if you miss that deadline the Shona Scott, the Practice Nurse, Mrs Sue Gordon, next tranche will not be until the Autumn. Blank ap- Health Visitor Mrs Linda Smith, and Dr Sarah Pack- plication forms are available from the Secretary, ham will continue to work in the Medical Centre as before, and will be joined by General Practitioners, Nursing and Managerial staff from Elgin. In this way it is hoped that a sustainable future can be guaranteed GENEROSITY OF BURNSIDE STREET for the staff and patients of Rothes Medical Cen- tre. We would like to thank Rothes Patient Group and A collection for Marie Curie Cancer Care was made in George McLean of the Moray CHP who helped to Burnside Street and amount collected was bring this about this solution to the crisis. £58.00. Thank you very much everyone who donat- A presentation is taking place on Thursday 27th ed. Anne Smith March @ 2pm in the Church Hall. All welcome for the event. Refreshments after the official stuff.

SCOTTISH REFERENDUM

If you are undecided about the Referendum, If you ROTHES ROVERS want to know more about an Independent Scot- land. Yes Moray are holding a series of Drop-in ses- At the coffee morning we had in December we raised sions at the Cottage, 86 New Street on the following £435.00. Thank you to all who supported us on the dates: th day. This years one is on the 22nd December 2014. Saturday 29 March from 11am to 3pm th We are training in the new look Grant Hall - what a Sunday 27 April from 11am to 3pm th big difference. Well done to all involved. Wednesday 28 May from 6pm to 9pm We have entered 3 teams in the Speyside league, one This is an opportunity for the undecided public to find in each age group. The P1/2/3s will play friendly out more information, ask questions and pick up rele- games and tournaments. The P6/7s & P4/5s will be in vant literature. league matches, cups & tournaments.

The Seafield Hotel has offered to host a Quiz Night on TATTIE BOGLES th Friday 28 March for club funds. Thanks to Babs & Chris for the idea. We will be doing the tattie bogles again this year dur- Hopefully we will soon be outdoors training. ing the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. The Festi- If there is any primary school child interested in join- val will be from the 1st May to 5th May so the tattie ing give me a call. bogles will have to go up before 31st April. They were Willie Younie. very popular last year with people coming from 01340 831732. around Moray to look at them. The slip for returning to register will once again be delivered in the Rothe- sian.

This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul 15 Dear Rothesian, son), Caroline McLean and their daughters Christine and Holly. It was great to have seven McLean’s over I contacted Jean about sending a picture re the at once and greet them at Toronto Airport. They McLeans visit to Canada. I thought you might include stayed with their brother and uncle Sandy McLean in it in the Rothesian if you chose to do so. Jean has sent London Ontario and took side trips from there. They me copies to read and it is interesting to see familiar names once and awhile. We in Ontario are experienc- ing a real winter this year and not having much break in the cold weather. It is another week of -22C with wind chills at -31C. It has been cold since mid De- cember and expected to continue until March. Bun- dling up is a must when we venture out. We have a good cover of snow which will help the plants survive we hope. We have heard of the extreme winds over there and flooding in England. I am sending two pic- tures one is at Jackie Riddle’s inside, the other in the backyard next to the corn field. First picture left to right-Christine, Caroline, Holly, enjoyed our Canadian Thanksgiving the first weekend Isaac, Jackie, Mark and Anne at their cousin Jackie and Ernest Riddle and enjoyed a Second picture left to right- Holly, Mark, Christine, second big dinner the next day in London with Anne, Isaac and Caroline Sandy’s family. Isaac and Ann were making their first I hope everyone is keeping well in Rothes. trip to Canada and were quite impressed. Along with Mark and family they went to the CN Tower in Toron- All the best to and spent two nights at Niagara Falls. Isaac and Jackie Riddle Anne also spent two nights at Jackie and Ernie’s and travelled to Mennonite country and Isaac enjoyed a The McLeans Visit Canada plane ride in Ernie’s plane. Sandy got to tour Isaac, Anne and Gladys around to some of the stone build- Isaac and Anne McLean along with Gladys McLean ings he has worked on in the London area. The time from visited Canada in October 2013 was too short and before we knew it we were all head- for a fortnight. They were joined by Mark (Gladys ing down the highway to the Airport again.

16 This issue sponsored by Stuart Paul