STRATHDEARN NEWSLETTER

November 2019 Also available on the community website: www.strathdearn.org Volume 19 No 4

The photograph shows our splendid new hall complex in Tomatin, to be known as “The Strathdearn”. Well done to the Strathdearn Community Developments Company (ie hardworking local folk under the chairmanship of first Richard Cooling and then Stan Falconer, and our Development Officer Charles Morgan) for bringing this project to fruition.

Strathdearn Community Council publishes the "Strathdearn Newsletter" quarterly, delivering it free to every home in Strathdearn.

This is a community newsletter, and the views and opinions expressed in contributions submitted by members of the community are not necessarily those of Strathdearn Community Council, nor of the Editor. No items are written by the Editor unless expressly indicated.

Editor: Mrs Denise Barley, Lauriston, Tomatin, IV13 7YN.Tel. 01808 511733 e-mail [email protected] Printing: Mrs D.Barley, Mrs S Edward Distribution: Mrs M Buckle Business adverts £10 per quarter page Next deadline: Wednesday 29th January 2020

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

3rd Monday of Month (except December) Gardening Club 7.30pm The Strathdearn, The Strathdearn

Contact: May Buckle 511448 For rates and information about booking the new Strathdearn hall, please see page 6, in the SCD Every Tuesday (November to April) report. Local rates are one-third lower than those Keep Fit to Music shown. 11am -12, The Strathdearn Contact: Denise Barley 511733 The Sports Facility is free for local youngsters

nd (under-18’s) to play ball games. Evening/regular 2 Tuesday of Month groups of adults will be charged. Available for ball Community Council games and tennis. No bicycles, animals or food & 7.30pm The Strathdearn drink allowed on the pitch. No blades or studs. All welcome Open 9am-9pm.

Every Wednesday Sports Facility Light tokens free to under-18’s Community Coffee Morning only, available from Debbie Mackay 511466, Lewis 10.30-11.30am The Strathdearn Macleod 511354 or Gavin Edward 511427. All welcome, £2

Every Wednesday Walking Group 1.30pm meet at The Strathdearn car park Contact: Kathy Bonniface 511740

Every Thursday 11.30am – 1.30pm Tomatin Shop POLICE CONTACT Any concerns about Law and POST OFFICE Order, information on vandalism, requests for advice, or any other police related matter should be passed on to our

community policewoman: Catherine McGibbon,

Community Beats, Burnet Road, Inverness. email Every Thursday (term time) catherine.mcgibbon@scotland.pnn.police.uk Toddlers Group ’ To telephone, for matters not urgent enough to require 10am-noon, The Strathdearn 999 ... please call 101 and you will be put through Contact: Debbie Briggs: 511487 07850 570 827

Every Thursday LOCAL NURSING SERVICES Art Class Strathdearn nursing services are covered by the Inverness 2.00– 4pm The Strathdearn, East Community Nursing Team. Contact: Betty Watson 511271 Pam Hardwick 511766 The Nursing Team’s telephone number is 01463 230850 The NHS24 telephone number is 111 Monthly, usually on a Thursday Natural History Club Some indoor, some outdoor, events. Days vary, so look out for posters. Contact: David Bonniface 511740 or Carol James 531220

Announcements

Congratulations to John and Vanessa Mackintosh of Mackintosh on the birth of their first child, a daughter – Kyla Clare Helen – on the 18th October. Celia is delighted.

Congratulations to Alan and Erin Edward on the birth of their baby son Orran Murray Edward who was born in Raigmore hospital on 10th October, 2019 weighing 8lb and half an ounce. A baby brother for Finn and second grandson for Gavin and Megan. A new great grandson for Jimmy and Agnes MacIntyre.

Some years ago I purchased a mobile scooter for the village, for anyone’s use, in memory of my husband and it was made good use of by several people. On enquiring now, I can’t find it or any indication of where it is stored. Can anyone enlighten me please?

Also ... I walk along the village pavement a lot and find it appalling that drivers are abusing the 30mph speed limit. A lot of locals are among them – we are the ones who should be respecting the limit and maybe others will follow. I have seen cars go through at speed, braking to go round “the Heights” corner: maybe we should get together and demand speed bumps or speed cameras? We can’t wait for a tragedy to happen for a result.

Jean MacRae

(Editor’s note: this topic has been discussed often at Community Council meetings and the same suggestions made, but it’s proved difficult to get the relevant authorities to provide such solutions)

HIGHLAND HOSPICE CHRISTMAS CARDS

Hospice Christmas cards, calendars, A5 diaries and Christmas wrapping paper will be on sale in the hall each Wednesday in November during the Community coffee morning 10.30am to 11.30pm on November 6th (seniors’ vouchers & Christmas lunch invitations available to collect also on this day until 12 o’clock) and 13th, 20th & 27th.

MOY, DALAROSSIE & TOMATIN PARISH CHURCH (Scottish Charity No SC015653)

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 10th NOVEMBER

All Age Worship for Remembrance Sunday - Strathdearn Hall at 10.30am - Rev F Bart Buell

Tea after the Service

Service at the Strathdearn War Memorial - 3pm - Vivian Roden

SENIORS HOUSEHOLD VOUCHERS

Once again the Windfarm Community Benefit is funding a £50 voucher for households in Tomatin & Moy. Strathdearn Senior Citizens However this time with a change in eligibility. Festive Lunch - Save the Date!

This year the vouchers are available for any household with a member who is 65 or over The Festive Lunch will take place regardless of whether he or she is drawing the on Monday 2nd December 2019 at State Pension. If you have reached the age of 65 or the Carrbridge Hotel. All will reach it between January 1st 2019 and Strathdearn residents who are 65 December 31st 2019 you are eligible. One voucher and over before the 31st December per household. 2019 will be able to enjoy a two course lunch followed by mince If you are eligible and did not receive a voucher pies and tea/coffee. last year, please get in touch-contact details below. Transport to and from Carrbridge (This change is to bring the voucher scheme into is included and there will be line with eligibility for the Seniors Christmas light entertainment during and Lunch. Everyone in Strathdearn aged 65 or over after lunch. will be invited to the lunch –this year at The nd Carrbridge Hotel, Monday December 2 . More Invitations for the lunch will be details elsewhere in the newsletter.) available to be picked up together with the seasonal Vouchers can be spent with either Tomatin vouchers, on Wednesday 6 November Firewood or at the Community Shop (staff keep a at the Community Coffee Morning tally of spending so you do not have to spend it all st in the Hall. Otherwise at once!) They will be valid from November 1 2019 invitations will be delivered to th until February 29 2020. remaining homes. Contact Pam Hardwick 01808 511766 For any questions regarding the mobile 07949 076053 lunch please contact Susan Falconer on 01808 511270 or email E mail [email protected] [email protected]. TO COLLECT YOUR VOUCHER AND See you all there! INVITATION TO THE CHRISTMAS LUNCH please pop into the new hall on Wednesday th November 6 10.30 to 12.00pm (These will be delivered to you if you can’t get to the hall that day).

I shall also be selling Hospice Xmas cards, calendars, diaries and wrapping paper.

Paths Update – November 2019

SCD are continuing to work on developing the path networks in Strathdearn. We are aiming to make the area safer, more attractive and healthier for everyone by providing paths which increase the number of trips made by walking, cycling and ‘wheeling’ of prams, scooters etc.

Tomatin Shop to Juniper Drive

We have been discussing this path for over 10 years. Planning work came to a halt due to difficulties in reaching an agreement with Highland Council Roads on a cost-effective solution. SCD funds were then redirected into the new hub project.

SCD is now revisiting the proposal. Sustrans has new funding from the Scottish Government which provides 100% of funding for design costs and around 50% for construction. New principles include ‘context specific’ design, ‘reallocating road space, and restricting motor traffic permeability to prioritise people walking, cycling and wheeling over private motor vehicles’. Hopefully this means our plans for a path design which fits our rural village setting and includes traffic calming to restrict speeding through Tomatin will be more acceptable than before.

Moy There have been improvements to the roadside path through Moy and a maintenance agreement is in place. Work will start shortly on clearing and resurfacing the 2.5km Birch Walk path on the east side of Loch Moy with improvements to seating and parking arrangements.

Longer term SCD is considering work on further elements of the Tomatin path network and more investigation into the feasibility of an off-road long-distance route connecting Aviemore with Inverness - mostly following the old military road - through Tomatin and Moy.

STEP IT UP HIGHLAND

We are currently planning two differently paced walks each week: one at a normal, fairly brisk walking pace and the other at a slower pace and for a shorter distance. These suit walkers with differing requirements, but both are beneficial for health and wellbeing, and offer a chance to go out into our beautiful countryside. This is particularly spectacular at the moment with the dramatic autumn colours. Our walk last week enabled us to see the beautiful pale gold of the birches alongside the subtle bronze of the beech trees, with the hills a misty purple-brown in the background. Closer at hand were the many different species of fungi, which led to some interesting discussion and exchange of stories!

There was also the pleasure last week of returning to have our tea and cakes in the new Hall, and to explore this exciting venue. We do still, however, meet in the car park there. From the first Wednesday in November we shall revert to our winter timetable of meeting at 1.30pm., to maximise the light, so if you fancy joining us, do come along then.

If you would like to know more, do contact Kathy or David on 511740 or Carol on 531220.

The big news this quarter is, of course, the completion of the Hub. On the 10th October, following issue of the Completion Certificate by the Highland Council, the building was transferred from Compass to SDC. New furniture has also been delivered in order that the building is ready for use. Compass have given us 2 weeks to vacate the Millennium Hall before they start the conversion of that building. It is therefore important that all user groups transfer their equipment, files and toys into the new building. Following the 28th October access to the Millennium Hall will not be possible as it will be a construction site. Over the last few months there has also been extensive discussion, consultation and research on finding an appropriate name for the Hub. The decision was announced at our AGM last week. The new complex will be known simply as "The Strathdearn." We are now looking at developing a suitable logo and promotion for the venue. In order to operate these fabulous new facilities, two new appointments have been made :­ Donna Campbell in the role of Hall Manager, and Janet Cross in the role of Events Manager. These appointments are being funded through a grant from the Scottish government aimed at helping developing communities to achieve their aspirations. It is now up to our team to ensure that the facilities are used to their maximum by locals and non­locals alike. Unfortunately we have to make a charge for the use of the facilities. This has been the subject of many discussions across the community. In order to explain the underlying reasons for the charges and listen to the various points of view a public meeting was held on the 2nd October. Following these discussions a number of changes were made to the proposed rates. The following table outlines the basic charge rates for the use of the various facilities for non­local people. All residents within the IV13 postcode area (i.e. all residents within the Strathdearn community) will receive a 33.33% discount on these prices. Similarly all applications for use by corporate bodies (i.e. companies, government bodies, etc.) will be subject to a 33.33% surcharge. Note – all prices include VAT. These costs are similar to those charged by other community halls and represents very good value for money. However, if you have a specialist need and you consider that the imposition of charges compromises your personal or group circumstances please contact Donna or Janet Cross, who will look to see if there is anything that we can do to help your circumstances. In addition to community user groups it is intended that community events will be organised; including Cinema nights, Ceilidhs, dances, etc. – so watch this space. It is anticipated that the alterations to the Millennium Hall will take approximately 5 months. The revised building will include the shop and restaurant facilities. Whilst it is intended that the shop will remain in community ownership, SDC are currently in discussion with prospective concessionaires to operate the restaurant. Further information will be available soon. Odds & Ends

The shop is operating far more efficiently with a significant reduction in the level of subsidy previously required. This has been achieved through the facilities within the electronic point of sale system providing real time information on Several months back SCDC started to look for suitable locations for the stock and sales, and the affordable housing project which was one of the long standing desires introduction of new products. Along identified within the community plan. with the baking of bread on the Its is fair to say there is no shortage of land around the Strathdearn premises, Paula and her team have area. However, there is a shortage of land which is suitable for introduced a number of initiatives development without a considerable amount of financial expenditure being (including the steak and wine meal spent to access utilites and the required infastructure that is required to deals, fresh fish, etc.) that have meet all of the planning requirements. proved very attractive for the The term "affordable housing" is an umbrella term used widely these community. They are currently days and generally means low cost housing (below private market value) looking to see what deals can be and covers a wide range of options. This could be social rented, low cost provided for over the festive period. self build, shared equity, mid market rent, and rent to buy to name but a However, the team are still short of few. volunteers – so if you have time to Interestingly, the space and quality standards to build affordable spare please contact Paula at the housing is set at a higher rate than your average mass market private shop. developer and this is because The Scottish Government and The Highland Council will only provide grant funding if specific criteria are met when A planning application has been constructing affordable housing. Therefore, it can make it more expensive lodged for a new children’s playpark to build an affordable housing product than the standard house built on a adjacent to Meg’s Gardens. It is housing development estate. proposed that the children’s play As previously stated, the site which SCDC have been pursuing is the equipment previously installed open space across from the "green tin church" by the railway viaduct on beside that old village hall, be the main road in Tomatin. This site is ideal for many reasons, it is close to refurbished and installed at this new all of the amenities within the village. Public transport, the school, and the location. This initiative should shop. As well as having access to "tap into" the existing utilities. provide play facilities for the children This piece of land has also been gifted to the community by Tomatin of Tomatin away from the road and Estate,which has saved the community a considerable amount of money, out of harms way. were they have had to purchase land on the open market. It is likely this site would always have been earmarked for affordable housing due to its Earlier this year, Drew Hendry location. Therefore, the community now have a say (subject to planning MP met with concerned locals to and building regulations) on the type and design of housing and tenures discuss the unreliability of our that will be built there, opposed to very little say from a developer. Outreach service which is supplied We have been working hard to progress this and although the site is from Aviemore Post Office. Drew challenging, all of the engineering site surveys have come back undertook to raise our plight at a favourable. high level within the PO. Since then The next stage is to put this out to tender on a design and build basis we we have heard that Aviemore which means we stipulate on some non­negotiables such as where the P.O. is up for sale and there is a real flow of drainage has to go, where the access road is and also take into possibility that it may close. A follow­ consideration the feedback from The Highland Council from the pre­ up meeting with Drew will be held planning application. We estimate the maximum amount of properties on 25th October. He has arranged would be fourteen (there maybe be less), along with some community for Mark Gibson, Post Office Public space. Affairs manager for Scotland and Then, once we get back the quotes and designs we will consult with the the North of England, to attend community on these, and advise the options available along with what is Friday's meeting. We will leave financially possible. This is likely to be post Christmas. [M.M­C] Mark in no doubt that these services are vital to our rural community and we are looking for a lasting solution Planning for Real as soon as possible. Duncan Bryden held a meeting in September to explain the framework SCD hold regular meetings in the within which Strathdearn has to operate. We heard how Highland Council's Strathdearn starting at 7.00pm. All Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan (IMFLDP) sets out options for are welcome, in where development can occur and key issues affecting particular fact encouraged, communities. For example, the IMFLDP stipulates where in Strathdearn to attend. The houses may be built, which areas are zoned for business, and which areas next meeting is must be left untouched. Duncan went on to explain how we can input our 28th November. own ideas and preferences into the next IMFLDP and thus influence the future development of our community. Church of Scotland Parish of Moy, Dalarossie and Tomatin (Scottish Charity No. SC015653) Interim Moderator: Rev Robert E Brookes T: 01667 404686 Session Clerk: Vivian Roden T: 01808 511 355

We meet in the Strathdearn Hall on Sundays at 10.30am, except for the Services which are held at Dalarossie Church on the first and third Sundays of the month from March – November, inclusive. We usually have Tea after the Services in the Hall.

Highland Foodbank: On the Second Sunday of the month, we accept donations of non-perishable, in-date food for the Highland Foodbank at our 10.30am Service in the Hall. From time to time throughout the year Lorna Dempster, Project Co-ordinator, Inverness & Nairn, sends a list of items the Foodbank is desperately short of, and we concentrate on getting donations of these items, but any gift of food is welcomed.

Afternoon Tea: Join us at the Strathdearn Hall for a chat over freshly made sandwiches and delicious scones and cakes between 3 and 4 pm on the second Monday of each month. Further information from Sandra (01808 511246) or Vivian (01808 511355).

The Guild: Meets on the second Wednesday of the month between September and April, inclusive, usually in the Strathdearn Hall unless stated otherwise. New members welcome. Time of meetings varies between afternoon and evening. Further information from May 01808 511448.

Messy Church: We also have Messy Church, on the first Sunday of each month, in the Strathdearn Hall from 4pm – 6pm. We have some fun with crafts to begin with, followed by a Bible story with a song and prayer. - and then we have tea together (proper meal, that is, not just a cup of tea!)

All are welcome. Adults and teenagers as well as children - you don’t have to have a child to come along and it doesn’t matter whether you go to Church or not. Messy Church was designed for people who think a traditional church service isn’t really for them – although many of us who go are involved in traditional church too! It really is for everyone!

Children have to bring an adult with them. Parents/grandparents/carers don’t have to do anything (unless they want to try some craft work etc!) You can just chill out with a coffee if you want. No charge, but donations,if wished..

Further information from Vivian (01808 5112355), Sandra (01808 511246), or Liz (01808 511353) and we’d love to see you there.

The Dalarossie Project: We're going to be busy over the winter painting the wall map in the vestry, and gathering information for the mini visitor centre which we hope to open around Easter. We're excited to be getting down to the detail at last – and are grateful for the help given friends in the Natural History Club and Art in Strathdearn, and to the other members of the community who have come onboard to help with the Project in different ways.

SUNDAY SERVICES for November, December and January

NOVEMBER: Sunday 3rd Dalarossie Church 11 am Rev F Bart Buell Holy Communion Note: This is a Joint Service with Daviot & Dunlichity Church, hence slightly later time.

Remembrance Sunday: Sunday 10th: Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Rev F Bart Buell Tea after Service Strathdearn War Memorial 3pm Vivian Roden

Sunday 17th Last service of the year in Dalarossie, which then closes until March. Sunday 24th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service

DECEMBER: Sunday 1st Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 8th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 15th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 22nd Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service

Christmas Eve: Both Services led by the Elders Strathdearn Hall 6.30pm All Age Service Strathdearn Halll 11.15pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols (The offerings from both these Services will be divided between The Samaritans and Birchwood Highland)

Christmas Day: (To be confirmed) Strathdearn Hall 10.30am All Age Service

Sunday 29th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service

JANUARY: Sunday 5th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 12th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 19th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service Sunday 26th Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service

FEBRUARY Sunday 2nd Strathdearn Hall 10.30am Tea after the Service

Please see separate Notice for our Services and Events at Christmas

All are warmly welcome at any or all of our Services and Activities

MOY MATTERS (8)

Progress to date: 1. Tidying up of footpath: McGowans have a maintenance contract for the path and have recently carried out weedkilling along the grass verge as well as general tidying of the verges and clearing out culverts. 2. Tidying up the path around Moy Loch (Birch walk): work should now have started on the path and is due to be completed by December (weather permitting). 3. New signs for Moy: the new signs are completed and are looking good. We are just waiting on a response from HC regarding planning permission. 4. Meeting place: The topographical survey has been carried out and the speed survey has also been completed – you probably saw the wires across the road! We should have the results by the end of October/beginning November. 5. Moy FB page: it is called Moy sub-committee. Please ‘like’ us and join us. Feel free to post. Also if you are out and about and take photos in our lovely area, we would love to see them. 6. Planters: Can we ask that everyone keeps a regular check on the planters and the plants and if ever there is a problem please let us know. 7. Litter pick: 9th November at 10am, meeting at the new bench opposite the post box. Litter picking equipment will be supplied but please bring along a high-vis vest if you have one. Everyone is invited to Marian’s house afterwards for a well-deserved tea or coffee. 8. Chainsaw-carved bench: our new bench, with a wildlife theme, has proved popular with passing cyclists. A second bench, with more of a fishing theme, will be installed shortly. Two more benches have been ordered – one for Lynebeg and the other for Ruthven. If you have suggestions as to where these benches should be placed then please inform the committee. 9. Squirrel signs: sadly over the last couple of months two dead squirrels have been found on the road having been hit by passing cars. Hopefully the new signs will encourage all drivers to slow down and look out for our local wildlife. More signs will be erected shortly.

As always the sub-committee members want everyone to keep in touch so, if you want to contribute or give any feedback, please feel free to contact any of the sub-committee members at any time. The members are Marian Hendry (Chair, [email protected]), Iain Macdonald (Vice Chair), Alastair Fraser, Davie Cameron, John Clarke, Jimmy Duncan.

Art in Strathdearn Gardening Club

The art club has moved into the upstairs room in the th new hall –if you are passing on Thursday afternoons The next meeting will be held on Monday 18 between 2pm and 4pm do pop in for a cuppa and to November at 6.30pm. Member will exercise their brains with an interesting quiz, their jaws with a see what we are up to! delicious supper and both with a good blether.

Membership is £10 per year and weekly subs £2. There will be no meetings in December or January. Our next workshop, which could be in November, th promises to be a really interesting one - creating The February meeting will be on Monday 17 at mosaics for the garden! Membership entitles you to 7.30pm, when ideas for meetings and outings for the year will be discussed. If there is something about come to the workshops (3 or 4 per year, usually on growing vegetables, flowers or shrubs that you don’t Saturdays) even if you can t come to the weekly ’ fully understand, come to this meeting, explain your sessions. problem and we will try to arrange a meeting that will solve it. For more information contact Betty Watson 511271, Carol James (Chairman) Pam Hardwick 511766 or any club member.

STRATHDEARN COMMUNITY CHARITABLE TRUST

HARDSHIP FUND GUIDANCE NOTES

The Hardship Fund exists for the benefit of residents of Strathdearn who find themselves in necessitous circumstances.. For example:

1. If you cannot afford to pay:

- an electricity bill - a council tax bill - for fuel to heat their home

- replace goods and personal effects damaged by fire, theft or flood.

- replace essential goods if they become broken and you cannot afford a replacement or repair, eg cooker, fridge, washing machine etc.

- other essential expenditure which would be likely to cause you or your household hardship, or render you homeless, if your continued inability to meet the expense continued.

Priority in this category to be given to houses containing elderly people and children.

2. In cases where students, apprentices and others involved in education or training find themselves in need (due to unexpected circumstances; circumstances beyond their control; additional necessary expense; or the purchase of essential textbooks or tools of the trade), to the extent that continuing with their course or training might be jeopardized without financial assistance.

3. Any other situation of need at the discretion of the Panel appointed from the Trustees of the Strathdearn Community Charitable Trust and the Officebearers of Strathdearn Community Council, namely the Chairperson and Administrator of the Trust, and the Chair and Secretary of the Community Council, who are appointed to approve or otherwise, applications received to the Hardship Fund.

Applications to the Hardship Fund will be treated in the strictest confidence, determined in private by the Panel named at 3. above, will not be discussed at Community Council Meetings, and recipients of grants will not be named in the Accounts of the Charitable Trust or the records of the Community Council. Grants will usually be capped at 1,000 pounds per person or household per annum, but this condition may be waived at the discretion of the Panel. Payments will normally be made by cheque. Cash payments will not be made.

Requests for application forms will be welcomed by the Secretary of Strathdearn Community Council by e-mail ( [email protected] ) or in writing to The Secretary, Strathdearn Community Council, Smithfield Farmhouse, Tomatin IV13 7YN.

Revised October 2019 Strathdearn Community Council Snow Clearing Scheme (Tomatin) (in association with, and funded by, The Strathdearn Community Charitable Trust)

In March 2011, an Application was made to the Trust for emergency snowclearing funding. In answer to the question ‘How will this project benefit the community?’ it was stated on the application that:

 The community will benefit from efforts (supplementing statutory snow clearing work by the Highland Council) made to keep open public routes and other locations of community importance. These additional efforts will aid the movement of people and essential goods and services around Strathdearn, helping to minimise disruption.

 Snow clearing help around their homes (access to fuel supplies etc) will also be made available to vulnerable members of the community during times of extreme snow fall.

 Safeguarding elderly or ill people from trips and falls for example could prevent additional pressure on medical and social services and assist with people’s quality of life.

The Community Council (CC) appointed Michael McKay (T: 07831895394) as the snow clearing Coordinator on the understanding that he would make a judgement based on need and observation as to the extent and quality of additional snow clearing required. A local person with extensive experience of snow clearing work, contacts with other local contractors and an excellent working knowledge of the local area e.g. local place names, routes and locations prone to drifting etc, it was agreed that the Michael would contact local contractors as required to carry out a pre - arranged package of clearing work.

The CC unanimously agreed in February 2015 that Michael was doing a very good job as Co-ordinator, and that he had the Community Council’s support to make any judgments regarding snowclearing he felt necessary, including the clearing of junctions.

The CC has agreed a simple 10 point protocol for ongoing management of the snow clearing scheme::

 Snow clearing in Strathdearn is not an exact science and this scheme is intended to be applied when conditions extend beyond what is considered ‘normal’. The CC has agreed the scheme will have to rely on the trust and judgement of the Coordinator and local contractors.

 The CC will support the coordinator’s judgement as to how, when and what standard priorities are met and the best form of action.

 Snow clearing under the CC scheme is ADDITIONAL to that provided by Highland Council who will still be encouraged, along with BEAR Scotland on the A9, to provide the best service they possibly can and to which tax payers are entitled.

 Community members will have to understand, in the event of a deep covering of snow, it will take a day or two to get the CC snow clearing scheme under way.

 All individuals in the community will NOT have an automatic right to snow clearing help as the scheme is intended to target locations which benefit the majority (junctions, bus stops etc) and thereafter less physically able or vulnerable members of the community (elderly, infirm or ill etc) who may need help clearing a safe access to their fuel supply, outside shed, garage, drive way etc. The CC has agreed with the Coordinator a provisional pre - arranged list of locations and has identified some of the more vulnerable members of the community who would benefit from the scheme. This list can be altered as required, should new or amended deserving situations come to light and vulnerable persons requiring help can phone Michael direct on 07831 895 394.

5a.On 10th February 2015 the CC further agreed that when a wedding or funeral is held at Dalarossie Church in wintry conditions, the clearing of the field and paths to the Church be added to the CC Snowclearing Scheme.

 Emergency help (access for ambulances etc) would be given priority as required.

 The able bodied in the community will be expected to help themselves and others to a reasonable extent. However…

 Once these priorities have been satisfied additional help (plough, digger etc) may be made more available to individuals with reasonable requests. The Coordinator would consider such applications and some charges may be applied.

In the interests of transparency, pre agreed hourly rates for snow clearing by machine, snow clearing by hand and gritting or salt spreading will be made publicly available as will contractor hours. (Currently daily rates for clearing at £25/hour for machine plus driver and £14/hour for hand work if required have been agreed.)

 Funding for the Coordinator and snow clearing contracting work will be provided by the Strathdearn Charitable Trust up to a pre agreed limit. The Coordinator and contractors will bill the SCCT Administrator at the end of the month in which the work was undertaken.

 Until further notice contractors will supply their own Public Liability Insurance and use their own machinery and equipment.

The logistics, in terms of timings and the distance involved, make it impossible for one Co-ordinator to coverTomatin and Moy. Accordingly the Community Council recommends that the Moy Community consider implementing a separate Scheme for Moy, and that this is perhaps something SCD's Moy Sub-Committee might like to discuss.

(Updated October 2019)

MOY, DALAROSSIE & TOMATIN CHURCH (Scottish Charity No: SC015653) WHAT'S ON THIS CHRISTMAS

Sunday 1 December - Messy Church Christingle: - Strathdearn Hall - 4-6pm Wednesday 11 - The Guild Christmas Party - Strathdearn Hall - 2.30pm Monday 16 - Carol Service at Dalarossie Church - 6pm (Rev Robert E Brookes) Sunday 22 - Morning Worship - Strathdearn Hall - 10.30am (Vivian Roden) Monday 23 – The Big Sing at Christmas – Community Carol Singing in the Outdoor Sports Dome at the Strathdearn Hall - 6.30pm (Rev Robert E Brookes) (Donations from the Big Sing to The Samaritans and Birchwood Highland)

CHRISTMAS EVE: All Age Worship Service - Strathdearn Hall - 6.30pm (Vivian Roden) Service of Nine Lessons and Carols - Strathdearn Hall – 11.30pm (Vivian Roden) (Collections from both Services to The Samaritans and Birchwood Highland) CHRISTMAS DAY: Christmas Morning Worship - Strathdearn Hall - 10.30am Sunday 29 - Morning Worship - Strathdearn Hall - 10.30am (Vivian Roden)

ALL WARMLY WELCOME AT ALL OR ANY OF OUR SERVICES OR EVENTS

RHOANN S RECIPES ’ Press Release Company - CISI Chartered Institute for Securities & Christmas Tiffin Investment 200g of sultanas, cranberries, chopped Release Date 30/07/2019 – apricots (use in any proportion you like) Timothy C. Boles appointed President of 200g butter CISI Isle of Man Branch Committee 200g milk chocolate 397g tin of condensed milk The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment 400g digestive biscuits crushed (CISI) is delighted to announce the appointment of White and dark chocolate

Timothy C Boles (Tim) Chartered FCSI, FRGS, FRSA, Put first 4 ingredients into a large pan FInstLM, as President of CISI’s Isle of Man branch and heat gently until melted. Remove committee. from heat and add crushed biscuits. Press into tin and leave to cool. Before becoming managing director at Simcocks Pensions Limited, Boles was chairman of AKG Group in Decorate with melted white and dark 2000 and previously worked in the City of London for chocolate. If that’s too fiddly can cover with grated chocolate when nearly over 10 years after his commission into the Blues and set. Royals in 1978. Cut into squares and enjoy. Boles said he is honoured to take up the role of president. He also complimented his predecessor Paul Kneen for creating an environment of useful and engaging study via regular CPD, which Boles will look to build upon. Access Blues "I note that the Isle of Man leads the way across the regions in terms of responses and take-up of regular Welcome to our brand new Hall CISI CPD events," he added. "We are also launching an it's a credit to Strathdearn, innovative schools programme of GCSEs and A levels a showpiece at a public place in financial studies together with The London Institute but it raises some concern. of Banking & Finance (LBIF) across the island."

CISI head of UK business Jim Winter said: "We are No footpath from the village delighted to welcome Tim as our new Isle of Man including Strathdearn school, branch President and would like to thank Paul for his Young and old compete for space leadership and dedication throughout the past two with traffic big and small. years with the branch. "We look forward to supporting Tim with his plans for the committee in his Urgent action is required new role." to provide the missing link, in the rush to spend a million quid About: CISI is the leading professional body for did no one stop to think? securities, investment, wealth and financial planning professionals with a global community of circa 45,000 DG McAskill members in 111 countries, more than 300 of which are in the Isle of Man. (The answer to this question can be found on page 5 .. Ed.)

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Knocknagael – Tomatin Project

Construction works in and around your area – Safety is always our first priority at Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) and with this in mind, we ask that you please remain vigilant of signage or direction around the construction works and do not enter our working areas. Users of the access tracks are asked to obey signage and are reminded that large vehicles and construction traffic are also using the tracks.

Tomatin Substation

All construction and installation works are now complete with the substation control system testing ongoing. The energisation of the substation is due to take place in November.

Landscape planting started in October with final planting scheduled for next spring. The site has already been re-seeded around the substation. There is a pond that will remain where 3 species of damselfly and 3 species of dragonfly have been identified. There will be habitat enhancement planting for bumble bees and dragonfly.

Overhead Line

All 60 of the new 275kV towers have been erected and strung and construction of the 12 additional 132kV towers for the diversion works at Tomatin is also complete. The new tower at Knocknagael which will allow the existing line to be diverted into the substation is still to be built. Works continue on removing stone compounds and fences where foundation and tower construction has been completed. Removal of the existing overhead line (OHL) between Knocknagael and Farr substation will start once the Tomatin substation is commissioned.

Key Contacts

Louise Anderson is your Community Liaison representative and she can be contacted on 07384 454233 or [email protected].

Community Liaison Group

The next Community Liaison Group meeting is to be held on Wednesday the 27th November 2019. The Community Liaison Group (CLG) comprises of representatives from the local community, representatives from Strathdearn Community Council, Councillors of Inverness South and project representatives from Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc. Meetings will take place at regular intervals to discuss any matters relating to the Knocknagael – Tomatin project in the lead up to and during the construction period. Minutes will be made publically available via the project website https://www.ssen- transmission.co.uk/projects/knocknagael-tomatin/

Be the Difference

Since the launch of SSE’s volunteering programme we have helped over 2,500 projects, with our big-hearted employees dedicating their time to projects that matter to the communities where we live and work. All colleagues are encouraged to “Be the Difference” by volunteering a day in the form of skills-based assistance, painting, DIY, gardening and even school visits. If you have a project in mind that you think we could help out with please contact Community Liaison Manager – Louise Anderson on 07384 454233 or [email protected] who will provide you with further information Tomatin Firewood - Strathdearn Prices Phone James: 07527 883 606, Email: [email protected], Website: www.tomatinfirewood.co.uk Free local delivery on any order over £50 (Strathdearn only)*

Firewood (can also be cut to20-50cm length (in 5cm increments)) 25cm (10 inch) Tipping Loads (loose volume) 25cm (10 inch) Palletised Loads Softwood Hardwood 50:50 mix (loose volume) Softwood Birch 1 x 1m³ £70 £100 N/A 1 x 1.6m³ load - £115 £170 2 x 1m³ £120 £190 £155 2 x 1.6m³ load - £205 £300 3 x 1m³ £130 £260 N/A 3 x 1.6m³ load - £290 £420 4 x 1m³ £210 £320 £265

20cm (8 inch) Tipping Loads (loose volume) 20cm (8 inch) Palletised Loads Softwood Hardwood 50:50 mix (loose volume) Softwood Birch 1 x 1m³ £80 £115 N/A 1 x 1.6m³ load - £125 £180 2 x 1m³ £130 £200 £165 2 x 1.6m³ load - £220 £315 3 x 1m³ 3 x 1.6m³ load - £185 £275 N/A £310 £440 4 x 1m³ £230 £340 £285

Briquettes

Pini Kay (10kg packet) Nestro (10kg Packet) 1 Pack (10kg) £5 1 Pack (10kg) £4 10 Packs (100KG) £45 10 Packs (100KG) £37.50 48 Packs £190 48 Packs £190 96 Packs (1Pallet) £355 96 Packs (1Pallet) £300

Woodlets Pellets (BSL authorised Trader) 20 bags - £75 49 bags £168 98 bags (full pallet) - £295 196 bags (2 full pallets) - £560

Dry Kindling Bagged Firewood

• Large sack of kindling- £7.5 or 5 for £35 Softwood - £4 or 10 for £35 • Standard bag of kindling £4 Hardwood - £6 or 10 for £55 • 4 bags of natural offcut kindling - £12

Peat £6 or 5 bags or more £5.50 per bag Sawdust (collection only) 1m³ - £18

Coal – Can be tipped into coal bunker or just delivered in bags, please see website for other quantities • 10 x 20kg sack of Premium Coal - £75 • 10 x 20kg sack of House Coal - £65 • 8 x 25kg sack of Premium Coal (with chunkier bits of coal) - £80 • 8 x 25kg sack of Burnwell Ovoids - £76 Quality Coal from Connon Brothers

Pease note these prices are for deliveries within Strathdearn only and are subject to availability/ change. *Properties past Glenmazeran may incur additional cost due to additional distance and time