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lifeScotland’s rural lifestyle magazinestyleSCOTLANDJune 2013 Celebrating the SAYFC’s 75th Packed anniversary and off to the Leading Ladies: show! industry leaders in a man’s world

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COUNTRY

lifeSCOTLAND’S RURAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE SCOTLAND

Welcome to the summer issue of Country Lifestyle Scotland. You join us right in the middle of the show season, and there is none more anticipated than The Royal Highland Show. Four days of supreme agricultural fun and frivolity is on the cards, and we have put together a preview of what is on at the show, apart from the world famous livestock food and drink: country sport: showing, to keep you and your family busy. The work involved in putting on such a show is Hand made, award Young Guns: encouraging immense, and we have had a chat with three winning chutney from youngsters to get leading ladies from RHASS, RHET and the Oisin’s Farm involved in shooting SAYFC, to ask them how they got to the top in pages 4 to 6 pages 8 to 10 such a male dominated environment, and how their show plans are coming along. There is so much more inside, including fashion, art, and a Young Farmer anniversary feature. Also, two fantastic travel features, one looking at the picturesque Highland Perthshire region, and also a truly stunning lodge by the shores of Uig bay on the Isle of Lewis. With the sun finally breaking through who can fail to feel uplifted, and we hope you get the art: interview: chance to sit outside, Chardonnay in hand, and Pondering Jacqueline Talking to three leading read your CLS from cover to cover. McAteer’s ladies of the agricultural exquisite paintings world about their career path Karen pages 12 to 14 pages 23 to 26 karen carruth, editor [email protected] Front cover image: Thank you to the Mitchell family, of plus: Undercraig Farm, Langbank, and to their Clydesdale, West Glen Master Jamie, for his patience during his modelling debut. Fashion: Contact: Fife Clothing still fresh after Editor: Karen Carruth Tel. 0141 302 7750 125 years [email protected] Sales executive: Paul Johnstone Tel. 0141 302 7368 [email protected] Celebrating 75 years of the Marketing: David Boyle Tel. 0141 302 7719 SAYFC organisation [email protected] Advertising production: Joyce Brady Tel. 0141 302 7747 RHS: [email protected] Travel: PA to publisher: Hannah Davidson Tel. 0141 302 7722 Previewing what is on at [email protected] The Royal Highland Show. Touring beautiful Perthshire, Country 15-pages to guide you around and going North-west Lifestyle @countrylifescot Scotland the show’s highlights to Uig Lodge, a stunning pages 28 to 42 location on the Isle of Lewis www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Published by Newsquest Herald and Times Group Magazines, Glasgow COUNTRYlifestyle / 3 food Perfectly pickled

By Karen Carruth Award winning chutney Photographs: Rob Haining I THINK Tom and Barbara from Oisin’s farm kitchen Good – from the 1970s series The Good Life – may have some competition from the McVeighs. Living in a smallholding in Winchburgh, in West Lothian, I speak to Paul while he is in the middle of curing a ham in preparation for Christmas dinner – this is in May! With pigs snuffling around admits that there have been some outside, and chickens scratching disasters. But now that they around the raised vegetable have popular recipes that their beds, it was a consequence of customers come back for, they a vegetable glut that gave Paul a are not planning to change things business idea which is taking off. much. Using up his excess vegetables “It’s important to stick to the to make chutney a few years same recipes exactly, as we don’t back, he tried out a recipe from a add any artificial preservatives. We 1953 cookbook and the beetroot work on a fine balance of ensuring chutney and tomato chutney that the chutneys stay fresh for as long he made were such a hit with the as possible. We have an electronic people in his wife, Grainne’s work, ph meter and we regularly check that they kept asking for more. our chutney to make sure that If the demand is there, why customers get as long a shelf life not supply. Paul made more, as is possible.” and eventually after a few more Paul creates all his chutneys at requests, Grainne had the good home in his domestic kitchen, so sense to suggest: “If you want the batches are small. If he was to more, you could always buy make a beetroot chutney today, more!” And buy they did. he would likely fill 30 jars at most. Now, two years after launching All hand made using as much of the business, Oisin’s Farm his home grown veg as possible. produces eight flavours of chutney If he does have to buy in, he buys and a new line launched just a local. few weeks ago, a pear and lemon The flavours he is making at the marmalade. moment are: Spiced apple, pear Paul McVeigh cooks all his chutney on his own kitchen hob, making small It has been trial and error to batches of 30 jars each time perfect the recipes, and Paul Continued on page 6

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The Oisin Farm chutney range is based on old, tried and tested recipes

Bottling, labelling and filling is all done by hand at home Even though Paul tries to use as many fresh ingredients as he can from his own garden, there are by Paul some essential fruits that just won’t grow in Scotland all year round

COUNTRYlifestyle / 5 food

A couple of well earned awards were forthcoming for the spiced beetroot and for the courgette and tomato chutneys Perfectly pickled Continued from page 4 sultanas makes it a milder option This is an organisation that only chutney, Paul decided to enter for those seeking heat. allows members that create their his jars into the Guild of Fine Food and walnut, red pepper, spiced At the moment, Oisin’s Farm own products, nothing bought-in Awards, and was delighted to beetroot, spicy tomato and apple, does have a website that you can is allowed, to join, they travel to come home with a single gold for plum and apple, and red onion. order from, but Paul suggests that organised fairs for their members his courgette and tomato chutney A couple of those have a customers are more likely to save to show at. and a double gold for his spiced degree of heat, the spicy tomato on postage costs if they e-mail The big show of the year is The beetroot – a confidence booster and apple is cooked with a naga him an order rather than doing it Highland Show and this will be the indeed. The red onion chutney chilli, which is one of the hottest direct through the website. second year at it for Oisin’s Farm. is the best seller at the moment, chillis available, but Paul agrees They are also supplying quite Last year was a learning curve, and the secret to its success... that there is no point in making a few farm shops, delis, and and they picked up some good nothing, all that is in it, is red onion the chutney so hot that people garden centres, (see website feedback, made good sales, and – simply perfect. can’t eat it. So it has a warmth, for all stockists) and hope to be also picked up contacts which ■ If you would like a taster and but is not an eye-waterer. supplying a few more over the offered another outlet for their some serving suggestions catch The spiced tomato is made summer after attending more chutney to be sold from. up with Paul at The Highland with a Scotch Bonnet chilli, shows through their involvement Having taken the plunge Show in the Food Hall. but the fruitiness of the added with ‘Best of Scotland Craft Fairs’. into devoting more time to his www.oisinfarm.co.uk

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By Linda Mellor

CLAY SHOOTING is becoming a very popular past-time. It is a hobby for all age groups; you can shoot on your own or with family and friends. There are many shooting grounds around Scotland offering a wide variety of venues and shooting coaches who are on hand to help you improve your shooting skills. It’s fun, sociable and competitive and everyone can have a go. Drew Christie started shooting when he was only eight years old, encouraged by his parents Gavin Young and Evelyn; he progressed and took part in clay shooting competitions. Gavin and Evelyn run Auchterhouse Country Sports with Drew and daughter Emma. From the age of 14 Drew went on to represent Scotland in all the clay shooting disciplines (except one, down the line) and was only 18 years old when he captained the only Skeet team to beat England. He is still the youngest guns ever captain to date. Drew’s long list of shooting qualified coach, there are always your enjoyment of shooting, you with him talking about gun safety achievements spans nearly 20 years people out there willing to give can have a laugh and it also gives before taking him through the basics and he’s still only 33. you advice but it’s not necessarily you a break if you are shooting in a of mounting the gun and getting into “It is amazing what shooting can the right advice. I have worked group.” the right position. do for you, it has changed my life,” with National Shotgun Coach Iain 14-year-old Ross Small, from “People don’t appreciate the says Drew. McGregor for a number of years Cupar, shoots with his dad at the damage a gun can do,” says Ross. “I have travelled to so many and can appreciate the difference Scottish Clay Shooting Centre near “Getting instruction about gun different places around the world a qualified coach can make to your Leuchars, Fife. He only took up safety is really important. I played and met lots of people. I have shooting by keeping you on the shooting last year and really enjoys it. on Xbox and thought I would be a enjoyed every minute of it. It boosts right tracks. Ross says: “It’s good fun and I’m really good shot but it’s nothing like your confidence, you shoot well and “Get your gun fit right; this is the only one amongst my friends the real thing, it’s totally different. I winning is a fantastic feeling.” something a qualified coach will who shoots. The first time I tried think everyone should try it and then Drew finds it encouraging seeing do for you. Make sure you have a it I was excited but nervous at the they’ll understand.” youngsters coming along to the clay comfortable pair of shooting glasses same time, but I hit the clays.” Ross says one of the things he ground with their parents to try out and shoot with others. Having Before Ross was allowed to enjoys most is having competitions shooting. He says: “Find yourself a other people around you adds to shoot, his instructor spend ages with his dad and beating him.

Gavin and Drew Christie, aged 11, taken in 1991 Melanie with daughter Isla, both taking part in shooting competition at Auchterhouse Country Sports 8 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

Drew Christie takes aim

Picking up some tips! Left, Isla Thomson, middle Ross Small, with right, coach Ron Maxwell at the Scottish Clay Shooting Centre

COUNTRYlifestyle / 9 sports For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

Left, shotgun Young coach Ron Maxwell coaching Isla guns Thomson

Derek, Ross’s dad says: “I introduced him to shooting because I wanted him to have the things I didn’t when growing up. I think it is a good foundation for life. If he does things right he will enjoy it even more, he thinks about things and he is very respectful of shooting. “It’s also very friendly, we meet people, shoot with them, have fun, we relax and enjoy our day’s shooting. It is a great way to unwind and to enjoy some quality father and son time.” Isla Thomson was only 11 years old when she started. She says: “I have been shooting for three years now, I go with my mum to shoots and really enjoy taking part and spending time with my mum. It is a really good feeling hitting the clay targets and I have taken part in competitions.” Isla recommends if you miss the competitions and situations. We confident, capable shooters, it can through the process. Sometimes targets when you are shooting don’t have a ball!” be quite a transformation.” people, not just youngsters, come give up on it but organise to get The chief coach at the Scottish Ron has specifically designed a to us apprehensive about the gun more practice as it can make a big Clay Shooting Centre in Fife is Ron package to introduce youngsters to and firing it. We’ve all heard horror difference. Maxwell; he spends a lot of time shooting. It involves breaking the stories about previous experiences Melanie, Isla’s mum, started introducing youngsters to shooting. instruction down into a number of where they have not been coached shooting when she was 12, says: “I Ron says: “I think it is really stages. correctly. I like to promote the art am very proud of her and I hope she important to give youngsters Ron says: “We take them through of clay target shooting. Shooting will one day shoot for her country. I the opportunity to shoot and to each step so they confidently should be a positive experience for have made the team and have shot encourage them to progress. I see understand and fully appreciate gun all; it is great fun, interesting and internationally. a lot of youngsters who come to safety, holding and loading the gun. sociable. Everyone should try it!” “I absolutely love my shooting me with zero confidence and no It’s critical to start this way before ■ Contact Ron Maxwell, Scottish and all the friends I have made. Isla shooting experience. we present them with a target. I Clay Shooting Centre to book an is a fun loving girl and she is great “I get a tremendous amount of have always coached this way to appointment, on 01334 839218 company on a shooting ground professional satisfaction coaching give people confidence and allow ■ Drew Christie, Auchterhouse and she adapts well to different them and seeing them grow into them to feel informed all the way Country Sports 01382 320476

Never too young to take an interest: Derek Small, middle is grandad Bill Drybrough and his son, Gavin. Children, from the left, are Gavin’s daughter Lola Mae, Derek’s daughter Jenny, Gavin’s youngest Maisie Lou, all having Derek Small showing daughter, Jenny, how to shoot at Scottish Clay Shooting fun at the Scottish Clay Shooting Centre Centre

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By Karen Carruth grew, she thought that finally she could concentrate on her art full time. IT’S IN the eyes I think, when painting She now divides her time between her animals. If you look into their eyes and art and caring for her horses – two Arabs, see emotion reflected, then the artist has and five Shetland ponies, which she captured something special. And these inherited with her home. paintings certainly stir emotion. She has completed some stunning Jacqueline McAteer, an artist based commissions of her clients’ dogs, children at Nemphlar, in Lanark, has only recently and has painted a few cattle. At the turned her attention to painting full time. moment she is trying to build up her stock Looking at her portfolio, you can see where of images for prints, but is finding herself her heart lies – horses – but she says: “I a victim of her own success, as she has a will paint anything, cattle, dogs, people, waiting list for commissions which she is donkeys, I don’t mind.” working her way through. Jacqueline has always been artistic, Does she have a favoured medium? “No, studying fine art at Glasgow School of Art, not really, I can use anything that my clients graduating in 1986. But as sometimes request. Lots of the animals I paint are in happens in life, her dreams of being an pastel, but I am happy to use acrylic, oil, or artist were put on hold and she trained to watercolour to get the effect I want.” be a nurse, then working for some years as To get a flavour of Jacqueline’s work up a mental health nurse. “I enjoyed the work, close, she regularly exhibits at Gladstone but I knew that I wanted to return to do Gallery in Biggar, and has also exhibited at what I set out to do in the beginning.” the Society of Equestrian Artists in London. Throughout her years as a nurse, Jacqueline continued to do commissions for friends and as the demand for her art Continued on page 14

Jacqueline with one of her beloved Arabs

12 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk artistic

COUNTRYlifestyle / 13 art For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Nursing an artistic talent

Continued from page 12

This year you will be able to find her at Biggar Show, and Malvern Arabian Horse Event, where she will be taking her work to sell. A regular at the Highland Show, this year Jacqueline is just going along for fun – no stand this year, as she can’t afford to take four days off from her busy commission work. Her method of working generally involves the client providing a good clear photograph to get the best result. Pictures can either be posted or e-mailed for convenience, or Jacqueline can arrange for a photograph to be taken. If you would like to buy a print, it isn’t going to break the bank, prices start at £11.95 for the small and the large is still less than £25. Commissions start from £95. Having beautiful artwork in your home is accessible to everyone at those prices. Go ahead and have your favourite thing in the world immortalised on canvas – it’s something that you will glean joy from for years to come. ■ To have a browse through more of Jacquelines’ work, check out her website, A black background www.jacquelinemcateer. really makes the subject com, or e-mail her on info@ ‘pop’ from the picture jacquelinemcateer.com. Tel. 0793 – as in those above. 0574 485 But, on the right, in ■ Jacqueline will be showing a departure from the her work in a solo exhibition, usual, this Blackface throughout the month of July at sheep sits on a sunset Gladstone Gallery, Biggar. themed background

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By Karen Carruth to be fit for purpose (which is Strathmiglo shop, as well as important, who wants leaky boots special offers in-store and via its WITH 125 years under its or jackets with our weather), then website. belt, Fife Country clothing Fife Clothing can provide the range Recognised as the oldest mail has every right to celebrate. and the quality that you need. order company in Scotland and Apart from the deserved The company is celebrating with a retail shop that has been glass or two of champers to with a range of events and in Strathmiglo since the early mark such a milestone, the promotions, including stands 1900s, Fife Country was company has designed a brand at the Highland Show and founded by Andrew new range which has been the Scottish Game Fair, the T Hogg in 1888 and specially developed to mark its development of exclusive new originally traded under anniversary. ranges of British- the ‘Fife’ name. The Skibo range is a 100% made tweed Andrew T Hogg was Scottish wool tweed, created to clothing and a trained cobbler and Fife their own pattern and fashioned British-made into a range of classic clothing that footwear, Fife Country has been befits Fife Country tradition. historic providing customers with As Scotland’s oldest mail window handcrafted boots and order company, the beauty of displays shoes since 1888. All the range is that it is available at its Hoggs of Fife handcrafted to browse at any time, whether footwear are made lovingly you are a catalogue flicker, or an in Britain, featuring online enthusiast, you can see the more than 200 manual range, the colours, and the operations per shoe and sizes at the click of a crafted to mature in wear button. and improve with age. The If you are Carrbridge is a stylish buying country Chelsea boot in a slightly clothing to be oiled leather for outdoor worn outdoors wear, with hard-wearing The Skibo range of Scottish wool then it really has Dainite rubber soles – £160 tweed garments

16 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk ebrates 125 years of trading

boots were soon widely sought after, with the company becoming known as ‘Pioneers and leaders of boots by post’. After initially specialising in working boots, supplied to all parts of Scotland, dressier footwear styles were later added. Subsequently the company moved into clothing, introducing heavy duty waterproofs in the 1960s, as well as an extensive range of safety footwear and workwear through the 1970s. Fife Country now offers a diverse range of town and country clothing and footwear, for men and women, ideal for outdoor activities, work or leisure. The Hogg name still also survives, as the name under which a sister business (Hoggs of Fife) now distributes footwear and clothing to farm supply shops and country retailers throughout the UK. The Hoggs of Fife brand itself is also stocked by Fife Country, and is the brand of choice for most country professionals and The shop in Strathmiglo has separate departments for men and women’s clothing as well as a department devoted entirely to footwear. The Hoggs of Fife brand features heavily, plus the best from complementary brands such as Continued on next page Pinewood, Viyella, Harris Tweed, Joules, Seasalt, Jack Wolfskin, Timberland, Mephisto plus many more

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Fife Country celebrates 125 years Verysad to say notinScotlandthissummer so until 2July Continued from page 17 Robert Gibson, managing 10% Discount director and great grandson of Quote Scotland The Brave enthusiasts throughout Scotland the founder, told Country Lifestyle Workswithall other online offers! Scotland: “It is with great pleasure and most of the rest of the UK. www.kiwikate.co.uk or please telephone 07801 298365 Fife Country is still family that we have been able to serve owned and continues to grow our customers in Fife, Britain and and prosper. In keeping with overseas by supplying top quality the modern age, it now offers country clothing and footwear for a comprehensive website, with the last 125 years. all products available online. In “Our success has been, not addition, the previously small retail only due to the quality of the shop in Strathmiglo now covers clothes and footwear that we close to 1800 ft², and is visited, on offer, but also our staff, some of day trips, by customers from as whom have been with us for more far afield as the North of England. than 25 years and who make it Possum, and merinolovely warm practicalwearfor all thefamily from NZ. As part of the jubilee their priority to offer only the best celebrations, historic window customer service. displays are on show at the “Our customers have Strathmiglo shop, telling a shown us loyalty over the visual story of the business years and we would also Ladies Fashions through the decades, like to take this opportunity including vintage shoe to thank them.” displays, footwear tools and 7/9 High Street, Biggar, ML12 6DA 116 High Street, Biggar. ML12 6DH mail order catalogues Tel/Fax: 01899 220245 Tel/Fax: 01899 220884 going back to the turn of SHEILA CONN SUMMER SALE STARTS the 20th Century. ■ If you are THURSDAY20th JUNE, 9.30am Fife Country is also attending the MASSIVE REDUCTIONS ON SPRING SUMMER STOCK WITH UP TO 70% OFF looking to redevelop Royal Highland LIBRA-LEBEK-GELCO-GOLD-BIANCA-GARDEUR its shop so that even Show and ROBELL-CHIANTI-JOSEPH RIBKOFF more space can Scottish Game SHEILA CONN SHOES UP TO 70% OFF SHOES SANDALS AND BAGS be devoted to its Fair, visit its stand VANDAL-ZODIACO-CAPOLLINI-H.B.-PAUL GREEN-RIVA outdoor range and take part CAPRICE-GABOR-REIKER MAKE SURE YOUPUT SHEILA CONN OF BIGGAR AT THE TOPOFYOUR SALE of country in the 125th SHOPPING LIST WHERE YOUWILL NOTBEDISAPPOINTED clothing and Anniversary prize footwear. draw. Check out our website www.sheilaconnladiesfashions.co.uk

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16 -18Newmarket Street, Falkirk FK1 1JQ Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm Sunday11am-4pm 01324611350 email: [email protected] www.froxoffalkirk.co.uk YFC SAYFC WHEN AN association reaches 75 years of age this can only demonstrate its strength and resilience. The Scottish Association of Young Farmers is proud to have reached this accolade in 2013, and with chairman, Katherine Marr, bringing together a committee of forward- thinking, ambitious individuals who have the members interests at the heart of the decisions they make, it can only be a year that continues to grow from strength to strength. In February, 2013, Willie Davidson, vice-president and an active member of SAYFC, tragically National chairman, Katherine Marr died in a farming accident. To with Laura Fleming, national vice- ensure his legacy remains, The Willie chairman Davidson 75th Anniversary Fund aims to raise £100,000 to invest into clubs and districts securing their are. There will be many fundraising long-term future. opportunities throughout 2013 and Katherine said: “This fund will we ask past, present and future create new opportunities for the members and supporters to get personal development of our involved in any way they can. members through networking “One of the key activities will be and training, helping to ensure the the SAYFC Triathlon Fundraiser at clubs and districts are as strong or Loch Lomond, on Saturday, July indeed stronger than they currently 27, where SAYFC members will

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Congratulations from RHASS and RHET to the Grantsavailable to Scottish agricultural Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs students whoare 26 or under. Seeifyou for reaching their 75 year milestone. qualifybyvisiting www.camerontraveltrust.org.uk RHASS is proud to support you. or getinspired by past participants at RHET is delighted to be in partnership with http://camerontraveltrust.wordpress.com Young Farmers throughout Scotland.

We both wish SAYFC and its members afruitful futureand look forwardtoalong partnership FREE between our organisations! FUNDING

20 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk 75 years young ‘This fund will create new opportunities for the personal development of our members through networking and training, helping to ensure the clubs and districts are as strong or indeed stronger than they currently are’

SAYFC 75th anniversary sponsors, Craig Dickson (RBS), Duncan Barrie (CKD Galbraith), Sandy Wilkie (Muller Wiseman), be running, rowing and cycling to Sally Wilson (SAYFC), Stephen Hunt (RHASS) David James (SRUC) raise funds. They will get a taster of the triathlon at The Royal Highland Show where SAYFC are teaming up with RBS staff to complete a static Triathlon Challenge, running every day from 9am to 5pm on the RBS stand. You can support both of these events via www.sayfc.org.” SAYFC provides those who share an interest in the countryside from 14 to 30 years old with a social network where they can develop their key skills and experiences whilst having fun with like minded people. This is no more evident that at The Royal Highland Show where members will once again be Above, stockjudging is a prestigious competition to take part in at The Royal Highland Show participating in many competitions and activities from the National tug of war, to the junior and senior arts and crafts, catwalk couture and ‘Ready, steady country cook’, to name but a few. The traditional stockmanship programme will be one of the most highly contested events with members spending many months prior to the show practising in local and regional competitions. There will also be the return of the SAYFC main stage, located outside of the Young Farmers Centre, in addition to the normal activities there will be ‘The Gunge Tank’. Here, well know characters from the agricultural sector will be covered from head to toe if the sum set on their “head” is raised. This includes the SAYFC president Sandy Wilkie; QMS chairman Jim McLaren; The Scottish Farmer editor Alasdair Fletcher; head of RBS agricultural services Jimmy McLean; NFUS president Nigel Millar; United Auctions executive chairman David

Continued on next page Some serious effort being put in by this tug of war team COUNTRYlifestyle / 21 YFC

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Sales, Installations, Service and Repairs to all Dairy Equipment Developing skills, taking part in competitions, and making friends for life are all part of the allure of The Young Farmers’ movement Electrical, Engineering & SAYFC- 75 years young Refrigeration Work Carried Out Continued from previous page By Qualified Engineers Leggat; and RHASS chairman Allan work with SAYFC to increase their Murray. Donations can be made at engagement with the future farming www.sayfc.org and will be raising generations. money for the Willie Davidson 75th The Royal Highland and Supplies ForToday’sDairy Farmer Anniversary Fund. Agricultural Society, Royal Bank of A full programme can be found Scotland, CKD Galbraith, Muller at the Young Farmers Centre during Wiseman Dairies and Scotland’s the Royal Highland Show. Rural College are just a few where YouAsk – We Supply To ensure past members remain a relationship with the association is an active part of this social network, already highlighting benefits. and continue to provide support To coincide with this, a new and guidance to current members, chairman, and communications ‘Friends of Young Farmers Alumni’ and rural affairs manager has been Congratulations to has been introduced. appointed to support and drive The purpose of the membership agri-affairs. SAYFC is to bring together experience Developing membership and and knowledge that has upheld increasing the Young Farmers on their 75th Anniversary, SAYFC for the last 75 years, whilst movement is one of the key reassuring current members that objectives for SAYFC during 2013, they are not isolated when they and the introduction of two new from all at Fullwoodhead reach the end of their Young regional north event managers adds Farmers. The minimal fee of £25 weight to this. They will be working DairySupplies Ltd per year is donated to the Willie with local community groups to Davidson 75th Anniversary fund. develop new clubs by highlighting Mossend Livestock Auction Market One of the biggest challenges the on-going benefits, both for their any organisation must overcome personal development and the Lochwinnoch Whitefordhill is developing its credibility within its district as a whole. Renfrewshire Ayr chosen industry, making SAYFC’s The proactive approach of the PA12 4JF KA6 5JW agri-affairs committee paramount. association is refreshing. It continues By working with external bodies, to endeavour to remain current, 01505 843000 01292 262341 new relationships are developed delivering the social network that providing members with a platform individuals in rural districts sought to voice their views to those who after but also looking at the wider Email: [email protected] have the ability to make a change. industry that one day their members www.fullwoodhead.co.uk This contribution to the agricultural will be leading. sector not only increases the To find out more about SAYFC awareness to the members but also visit www.sayfc.org or follow them offers an opportunity for those who on facebook and twitter via @sayfc.

22 / COUNTRYlifestyle Leading Ladies RHS interview Agriculture’s leading lad REBECCA ELVIN this opportunity to showcase what’s The agricultural section at the show possible in terms of career choices. is one that many shows in the south SHOW MANAGER, RHASS Initiatives such as RHET’s farm covet and we work with the dealers visit programme and SAYFC’s etc to continue to provide the links with non-farming members business conditions they need. is certainly making a difference in 1. Were you brought up in a terms of generating interest. 8. The RHS is a huge event in farming/rural setting and do you The Royal Highland Show, the rural calendar, especially for think that influenced your choice as Scotland’s farming and rural RHASS, how are preparations of career? business platform, also has a role to going and are you having play in inspiring people not normally sleepless nights yet? I was born in rural village and lived immersed in the rural industries to there until leaving for university. I consider this industry when looking Plans are coming together well. enjoyed an outdoor childhood and at career choices. A significant amount of work has grew up with the countryside as my Becky having fun when she I am certainly passionate about taken place at Ingliston to address playground. volunteered as a games maker at last this and it is most definitely on my the issues caused by the unusual With a life-long love of horses, year’s Olympic Games radar when considering how to high rainfall last year. I always knew I wanted to work develop the show. For the first time there will be a within the countryside but preferably mini major show jumping – where not outside in the rain! 4. Do you think it is important 7. Before you took on the role as professional show jumpers will be I worked at Stoneleigh for 10 to attract more women into the show manager, what was your paired with some of the top Scottish years at The Pony Club (during the industry, and if so, are there opinion of the RHS? junior show jumpers. hey days of the Royal Show) and challenges attached to that? The Countryside area will feature then moved to The Royal County of The show is one of the flagship the Highlands and Islands this Berkshire Show for eight years. I think it is important to attract the agricultural shows in the UK, if not year with some very exciting new best talent to the industry whether the number one. I visited the show attractions. I am looking forward to 2. This is a relatively new role that be men or women, however a number of years ago – we came seeing the climbing wall in the this for you, what personal strengths it is true to say that there is an north to look at the vast livestock area. do you hope to bring to your role imbalance and addressing this can and agricultural sectors here to see Food and drink will be a major at the Highland? only be positive. what lessons we could learn and attraction as ever and we are Women have always played an replicate in Berkshire. looking forward to hosting the British I am highly organised with a great important part in the rural and agri- We were struck by Blonde National Show. Yes attention to detail which are vital business industry – what’s changing the impressive it’s busy, but thankfully skills when planning an event of this is that they are taking more a of display on offer no sleepless nights yet size and scale. a leading role and this is brought and the very – I am sure they are The RHASS and show team, about, in part, by the need for loyal visitor to come! both staff and the huge number of diversification which is often driven base. volunteers, are very experienced by women, particularly in food and I am looking forward to working production. with them all to deliver another great four days. 5. When you look back at your I am always looking at other career, did you have a specific shows and events to learn how they mentor who helped guide you? do things with a view to bringing new ideas and initiatives. It is I have been lucky enough to important to keep moving forward work with many different people and not get left behind the curve. within the volunteer organisations I have worked for. Everyone brings 3. As well travelled as you something different to the party and are in the UK, have you seen I have learnt so much from all of an increase in women taking them. leading roles in the industry? Everyone I have had the pleasure to work with on the variety of events Just as I was leaving The Royal have been so generous with their County of Berkshire Show the time and words of advice. I hope chairman and president were I can do justice to all the training I appointed, both ladies – Sally received thus far in my career whilst Stockings, a pig farmer and Ali here at the Highland. Brown, who works on the farm with her husband. Only the second time 6. There are many careers in in more than 100 years that ladies the farming/rural industry, do have filled the top slots. you think that people outwith A decade ago there were hardly the sector are aware of the any women farmers now there are opportunities available? about 23k. Attitudes have really changed to make this possible and Farming and the countryside have technology advances really make a never enjoyed a higher public profile difference. than right now and we should use

24 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

KAREN CARRUTH talks to three leading ladies in the world of agriculture, about their preparations in the run up to the highlight of the year, The Royal ladies Highland Show.

plenty of very smart ladies in senior, PENNY supportive, roles.

MONTGOMERIE 4. Do you think it is important SAYFC CHIEF EXECUTIVE to attract more women into the industry, and if so, are there challenges attached to that?

I think it will happen naturally, and 1. Were you brought up in a I can see changes ahead. I think it farming/rural setting, and do you is important to empower females to think that was important in your go for these roles, let them see that choice of career? they are equals and have plenty to offer. It won’t happen overnight, but Yes, I was brought up on our within the next decade I think we will family farm in Glenrothes, Fife, which see more women in leading roles. is a beef, sheep and mixed arable Typically over the years within farm, so it was a natural progression SAYFC, it was generally the males for me to stay within this sector as a that took on the club chairman career choice. position, with the females taking on I left school and studied the secretary role, but even that is agriculture, even though taking on changing. the family farm wasn’t an option. There are challenges, particularly I then went on to work for a local when it comes to having a family, machinery ring for one year. often you have to make a choice to In 2002 I took on the role of scale back your career to devote development manager at the SSTF, more time to your children while The Scottish Skills Testing Service, they are young. which gave me responsibility for overseeing the management of 5. When you look back at your proficiency test services. This linked career, did you have a specific in well with my former work with the mentor who helped guide you? machinery ring, and then in 2009 I took over from Fiona Bain at the I was fortunate enough to have SAYFC. 6. There are many careers in but also with one eye on their own a series of excellent bosses whom the farming/rural industry, do development as well. I learned from over the years. And 2. What is your role, and what you think that people outside I did look out an interesting they seemed to be there at the right specific strengths do you bring the sector are aware of the statistic recently, there has been just time for me to glean knowledge to the role? opportunities available? two females chairmen in the first 60 when I needed it. years of the SAYFC, and in the last Even now, in this role, I am lucky I am chief executive of the No, I don’t think there is enough 15 years, there have been eight. to have a strong presidential team SAYFC, my role is to find a way to awareness. We must raise the around me, with whom I have a very put into action the decisions that the profile of rural careers in our industry 8. The RHS is a huge event in close working relationship. board, and national council, make. and SAYFC has a role to play in that. the rural calendar, how does the I think my strength is basically that We will definitely be looking at SAYFC prepare for it and does it farming is my absolute passion. I that in the next year. We have lots bring you sleepless nights or do love the organisation and the of members who are not directly you look forward to it? personal development it offers our involved with farming, and these members, whether they realise it or young people have lots of skills that Both really. As you say, the RHS not, they are developing skills that could be utitlised in the industry. is the biggest event of the year for will benefit them for years to come. the Young Farmers, particularly You can’t force these skills on 7. The majority of the SAYFC this year, with it being our 75th youngsters, but if they are having board members are female, anniversary. fun while learning how to be part do you think this will make a We have the added planning of of a team, how to put together difference to the association? a main ring spot which should see a successful concert, and the around 300 members taking part in discipline that they demand, then I think it is just the way it has a top secret display. (Saturday of the we are doing something right. landed, there has not been a show, 3pm). conscious effort to have more Also, the most passion and 3. Have you seen an increase in females on the board, the National prestige is attached to our women taking leading roles in Chairman, the vice-chairman and stockmanship programme – that will the industry? the three regional chairmen are certainly give me sleepless nights women at the moment. – but we have the most brilliant I haven’t seen a significant I would say that in the past we team of dedicated people dealing increase in females taking on leading have had a good mix of males and with its organisation. This year we roles. However, I would say there females in leading roles, and even will see the return of the stage show, are more females taking on roles in though they both do an equally which will need around 60 acts the background, but still offering a good job, I think that the males between four days. significant contribution. If Penny has any spare time, she have a drive to do a good job for So it will be both exciting and, There are not many who are the enjoys spending it with her little the organisation and the females like most people, I will admit to ‘face’ of the company, but there are nieces do a terrific job for the organisation, losing a little sleep before the show.

COUNTRYlifestyle / 25 RHS interview

Continued from Agriculture’s leading ladies previous page ALISON MOTION Now all the schools are getting involved and after 13 years of RHET MANAGER RHET working on it, the message is getting across. Whether it is at local shows, in the classroom, or on farm 1. Were you brought up in a visits, the children are having a ball farming/rural setting, and do you finding out about farming. think that was important in your Our statistics are looking good, choice of career? but can always be better. in 2005 we got to 1 in 40 children; presently No farming background for me we are getting to 1 in 8 children, and – I was brought up in the middle of by 2020, we hope to be getting to Dundee. Alison enjoys the great outdoors 1 in 4. And, with the onset of new – here she is kayaking on Loch technology, it is getting easier to 2. What is your role, and what Ard, near Kinlochard, an area she reach more children all the time. specific strengths do you bring also takes Duke of Edinburgh bronze award kids walking 8. The RHS is a huge event in to the role? the rural calendar, how does RHET prepare for it, and does it I am RHET manager, which they have as much to offer as their Not all farmer’s children want to bring you sleepless nights? basically means I look after the male counterparts. take on the farm, but maybe want whole of RHET. My role is to keep There are so many more options to stay in the sector, so we also We start preparing for the RHS together all the different branches these days that can allow women need to make sure they have the in December. The RHET team at of the people who work for RHET, to work at a higher level with a level opportunities to use their skills in Ingliston are in charge of the school which includes five full time staff of flexibility attached, eg, working another role. planning. We need to find themes, at Ingliston, 12 co-ordinators and from home using remote access, sponsors, and work on getting around 600 volunteers. conference facilities etc, which gives 7. RHET does a fantastic job everything in order so that those four For this job you really have to be a working women more opportunities. of educating children about days work like clockwork. people person and you must enjoy the countryside, and food By January, we are talking to the education element of the role, 5. When you look back at your production, do you think the all the providers who join us in the which comes from my background career, did you have a specific message is getting across? Discovery Centre. With around in teaching. There is never a dull mentor who helped guide you? 100 schools getting to the centre moment and every day is different, Yes, slowly. It is so satisfying to between 10-11 in the morning, which I love. Not one specific person, but know that food education is now along with all the teachers, and I attended the Rural Leadership on the curriculum. At last! This around 90 volunteers, you had 3. Have you seen an increase in Programme in 2009, which is run generation of children will better hope that you have women taking leading roles in by Scottish Enterprise. This is a have the opporunity to covered every eventuality. the industry? fantastic programme, offered to learn all about food Our team do a 60 people each year, which really sourcing from start fantastic job and I don’t know that there is an opened my eyes to the wider picture to finish. there is no buzz increase in the amount of women of the rural sector, how it works, But I believe like it. However, in leading roles, however, I would how to get things changed, how that there like everyone say that women are now viewing to make contacts, and crucially it is a whole else, I’m themselves differently. taught me to think in a different way. generation sure there A decade ago you would What it also gave me was the of kids who will be a few generally hear lots of hard tools I needed to go and talk to are now in sleepless working farming women describe MSPs to rattle some cages. From their 20s nights themselves as the farmer’s wives. that course I learned how to map who missed before it, but Now you are more likely to hear what I do and very importantly it also out on this it is worth them say that they are farmers in taught me to say ‘no’, which is an knowledge. it. their own right. I think they have important lesson. gained the confidence to freely I have had great support from both express what they have to offer, and Ray Jones and Stephen Hutt, both to portray themselves differently. RHASS chief executives, in furthering I would say that there are lots of my career and for that I am thankful. women in the food industry. Lots of our food partners that we work 6. There are many careers in alongside have women on their the farming/rural industry, do boards. you think that people outwith Farming in general is a very the sector are aware of the traditional sector, take RHASS board opportunities available? for instance, it has 59 members on the board and there were only three No. I have attended a career or four women in that total, but this advisor event through Lantra, and will rise to six in July. although we have the skills sector council, I feel that career advisors 4. Do you think it is important still need to be educated on the to attract more women into the large number of careers that the industry, and if so, are there rural sector can cover. challenges attached to that? Not all these careers are directly linked to farming. There is the food Yes! We need those women sector, food policy, the feeding who want to be involved to talk sector, scientists, a whole range of themselves up a little. To realise that different skills that are needed. 26 / COUNTRYlifestyle COUNTRYSUPPLIES Lanark Agricultural Centre

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Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm Saturday from 9am to 1pm and Sunday from 10am to 2pm All enquiries telephone: 01555 660 099 RHS IT’S SHOW Highla TIME! It’s that time of year again – The Royal Highland Show is on the horizon. Marketed as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, and if you have anything to do flinging! with agriculture or the countryside, you can’t argue with that boastful claim. With attendances averaging 180,000, there is evidence that the show is attracting more than just a farming audience, therefore Country Lifestyle Scotland has been investigating what else is happening at the show, apart from the world famous livestock competitions. This year the variety on offer is staggering: whether Highlands and Islands highlight it is fantastic Scottish food and drink you desire, artwork, clothing, cookery the uniqueness of the region demonstrations, or just By Karen Carruth Initiative has brought together a a really great day out small sample of what visitors can experiencing the best of hope to enjoy. The Highlands and THE HIGHLAND Show was, at Islands is home to the five ski and Scotland on all levels, then one time, a travelling show, and snow board areas that make up the you won’t be disappointed. if it was still touring, 2013 would majority of Scotland’s winter sports Fingers crossed for some have seen the show head for offering and Ski Scotland will be on The Highlands and Islands. hand to help visitors get involved. sunshine this year, and we Therefore, this region will host the Walkers have long been coming hope to see you at The President’s Initiative, which aims to Speyside Safaris will be on site to to the region to explore and rangers Scottish Famer stand at highlight the regions unique flavours, tell showgoers about their wildlife from the Highland Council Ranger its many tourist attractions and the safaris Service will be at the show to share some time over the four business opportunities available. their expert knowledge. days. President of the initiative, Jamie mountain, which will be approx Wildlife tour operator Speyside Williamson, of Alvie Estate, along 15m high, that is being built to Wildlife offer wildlife watching with his team, have really pushed allow show-goers the opportunity experiences to suit everyone and the boat out this year, and show to try climbing on the way up, and will be able to tell you all about the THURSDAY, JUNE 20 to goers are in for a treat. The initiative abseiling on the way down. And diverse and plentiful wildlife that SUNDAY JUNE 23, 2013 will have a large presence in both if you are still feeling energetic, populate the region. the Countryside area (west gate Scottish Cycling will be on-site to The history and heritage of the entrance) and the Food and Drink guide you through a purpose-built Highlands and Islands attracts ROYAL HIGHLAND Hall, and the variety that will be on mountain bike course, alongside the visitors from all over the world. SHOWGROUND, offer will not disappoint. mountain bike stunt area. This year two properties of historic The Highlands are renowned The landscape, scenery and interest and natural beauty from The INGLISTON, for the outdoor activities that the heritage of the Highlands and National Trust for Scotland will be EDINBURGH landscape encourages, and visitors Islands are a huge draw for visitors featured; Culloden Battlefield and will not be able to miss the artificial to the region. This year’s Presidents Inverewe Gardens. For many the 28 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Highlands and Islands feast on offer IT WOULD be simply rude not to go along and try a sample from these fantastic Highland and Island food producers who will be exhibiting in the food hall. David Couborough of Cafe 1 will be hland Look out for : cooking up ‘a la carte’ takeaways Olive Tree Berry Good Böd Ayre Seaweed Products Street food Cullisse Highland Rapeseed Oil Each day there will be a different Great Glen Game Ltd chef in the countryside area cooking Hebridean Sea Salt Ltd up some fantastic ‘street food’ - not Macbeth’s Butchers your usual chips and burger, but Rose Cottage Country Kitchen gourmet snacks using Scotland’s Shetland Cheese Ltd finest ingredients like venison, lamb, ng!g! Shetland Refreshments Limited seafood, beef, all the things that The Well Hung Lamb Co. Scotland is famous for. Look out for Muji Rahman, the man behind Essential Sauces the Michelin-recognised ‘Cafe India’ Tomatin Distillery in Dingwall, who will be cooking Windswept Brewing Co. up some Bangladeshi ■ Throughout the show, treats; and famous chefs will be Above: Venison charcuterie from Great Stephen Devlin cooking up a storm in the Glen Game, and a selection of cheese at Rocpool; Cookery Theatre in the food from Shetland Cheese Ltd Bruno Birkbeck, hall, using ingredients from of The Torridon; some of the Highlands and and David Islands producers who will be exhibiting at the show. Like Couborough of the recipe? Buy the ingredients straight from the producer Café 1. Bruno Birkbeck President of the Highlands – simple! and Islands initiative, Jamie Williamson, of Alvie Estate, is looking suitably excited by FEELING ENERGETIC? Have a ride on the the plans to showcase the Highlands and Islands to the mountain bike track which will be set up showgoers beside the stunt bikes exhibit. Also, there will be a huge artificial mountain built for rock climbing and abseiling practice... then you will have earned your street food treat.

Highlands and Islands is known for its fishing, shooting and stalking and the Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group are in the Countryside Area at the show to tell you more, whether you’re a beginner or expert. Jamie Williamson says: “In this Year of Natural Scotland the RHS is a great opportunity to promote the Highlands and Islands as Scotland’s natural larder. Where else could one source heather-fed lamb, highland cattle, venison from wild deer, a wide range of shellfish, seafood, salmon and brown trout, cheese, malt whisky and beer? “As this year’s President, I am delighted to be involved in the promotion of food production, processing and cooking from the Highlands and Islands. He continued: “We will be looking to provide Royal Highland Show goers from all over the world with a taste of life in the Highlands and Islands, and hoping to inspire new and returning visitors to the area.” COUNTRYlifestyle / 29 RHS Fun and frolics in the Countryside Area Join Philip Price on his photo safari RENOWNED FOR being the and learn some new photography welcome to visitors entering from techniques the West Gate, the Countryside Area showcases all aspects of countryside living. Featuring trade stands, demonstrations and events, it is a focal point for anyone with a love of sports, hobbies, crafts, gardening and countryside pursuits in Scotland. This year, anyone interested in history is in for a treat, as the Claranald Trust for Scotland will offer an interactive education for children Always popular, the Drakes of Hazard and adults in the form of their offer fun with duck-herding collies medieval village. Constructed for the purposes of the show, the ‘village’ provides an arena to showcase The terrier racing, from Totally Terriers is a show highlight, as the terrorists of Scottish ancestry, including live the dog world take on each other in a frenetic race working communities dressed in authentic costume as well as relics birds of prey in a natural habitat, Alongside him will be award from the past. with performances from eagles, and winning photographer, Phillip Visitors will become absorbed falcons letting you see first hand Price, whose work has featured in in fantastic displays of culture, these majestic birds. several national and international heritage and wildlife from Scotland’s A crowd favourite, Totally publications. Phillip will offer the history. If Scottish music is your Terriers is the UK’s leading dog chance to join him on his magical love, then MacMurchie Bagpipes display team and offers feisty and photo safari of the Royal Highland will be demonstrating how they build fun terrier racing within the area’s Show and also learn some special bagpipes from scratch; you can demonstration ring. Always one to tips for planning and achieving even take along your own pipes for get the crowds on their feet, the fantastic images. Fly fishing demos are running restoration and repair advice. frenetic race sees a troop of terriers Located in the Outdoor Living throughout the four days Also demonstrating rural skills compete to chase a man made lure Area, the Royal Highland Show’s is Rab Cairney, master of Targe from one end of the arena to the Eco Garden will provide a focus and Scottish shield making. Other other in a hilarious contest of these for show goers looking to get their outdoor activities will include tenacious terriers. hands dirty and learn more on food the techniques involved in the For those keen on indoor sustainability. trade of the wheelwright with lifestyle and creativity, the rural With a full range of associated Fife Wheelwrights, who will use marquee offers the opportunity trade stands, show goers will also the area to show the build and to paint alongside internationally be able to visit the Countryside restoration of wooden carriages acclaimed wildlife artist, Derek Area to get fitted in the best of and cart wheels. Robertson. Derek is currently countryside style and fashions whilst For those who like to get up serving as artist-in-residence at home owners can pick up a classic close and personal with some Tentsmuir National Nature reserve etching or painting to take a piece of furry or feathered creatures, Elite as part of the Year of Natural rural life back to their very own living Head to the forestry area to cheer on Falconry will return to showcase Scotland 2013. room. the brave pole climbers What’s on, and when Honey Tent - buzzing with Timetable for Thursday, June 20 to Sunday, June 23 fun ideas for kids 9.45am Arena opens THE BEEKEEPERS Tent always has a warm welcome for visitors, 10am Warriors through the ages by the Clanranald Trust and this year in particular it is important to go along and support our 10.40am Drakes of Hazard beekeepers. With the combination of shocking weather and dwindling 12pm Fly Casting Demo bee numbers, the organisers are putting on a display to educate visitors 12.40pm Totally Terriers about both the hardships that beekeepers face, but also to show the 1.20pm Mordor Gundogs rewards that are available in the form of fantastic Scottish honey. 2pm Elite Falconry The children can again get involved in candle making, as grown ups linger at the honey tasting. There is a honey competition, which is judged on the 2.40pm Drakes of Hazard Wednesday afternoon, so that showgoers know the results when the tent 3.20pm Warriors through the ages by the Clanranald Trust opens. 4pm Mordor Gundogs The bakery classes are back on this year, with a few changes, and if 4.40pm Fly Casting Demo you have the mixology knack, then you can always enter a cocktail for 5.20pm Totally Terriers judgement. The usual observation hives will be present, along with lots 5.50pm Arena closes of educational exhibits, all in relation to this year’s show theme, Natural Scotland.

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Cousins of Cheltenham are very pleased to be exhibiting for the 3rd year at the Royal Highland Show, the show and the people are most welcoming we are very excited to have a much larger site this year situated in the 4th Avenue, Countryside Area.

Our Tweed garments, are Produced from 100% Scottish Wool sourced from traditional woollen mills, and take great pride in being able to offer our customers a truly great collection, great styles, great quality and most of all great prices.

Our ladies chic tweed fashion collection is at its very best, our quality and price points are unbeatable, absolutely perfect for our discerning country pursuit’s customers Anne and I Alan look forward to seeing you Scan to view our at our stand. tweedcollection cousinsofcheltenham.co.uk 10/11 Montpellier Walk, To view our collection on line Cheltenham, www.cousinsofcheltenham.co.uk Glos.GL501SD or telephone 07836 698887 RHS Child’s play at the WITH MORE than 25,000 children expected to visit the Highland Show this year, the Royal Highland RHET gears up for a potential 25,000 kids Education Trust (RHET) is gearing up for another four busy days. The Children’s Discovery Centre, is a must visit for parents as well as teachers, and the kids will have a fantastic time in the centre, all the while learning valuable lessons about where their food comes from, and interesting facts about the countryside and wildlife. They might even manage to cook up their own evening meal in the Scotch Beef cookery theatre, as hundreds of children will be given the chance to cook up delicious, healthy dishes using Scotch beef, pork and lamb. Put the kid’s Also returning is Dynamic Earth, names down offering a chance to dig up fossils for the cookery and discover the facts behind theatre, run Scottish myths. As usual the children by QMS in will have the opportunity to make the Discovery the popular themed badges with the Centre. They Game and Wildlife Trust, also learn are guaranteed how to make flour from wheat with a wonderful Edinburgh’s Gorgie City Farm and time cooking the chance to milk Mabel – RHET’s up a healthy famous life-sized fibreglass cow. meal The nearby Honey Tent offers an insight into beekeeping and gives children the opportunity to try their educational institutes Scotland’s to ensure children have the most hand at candle making, as well Rural College (SRUC) and Harper amazing time, RHET manager, ■ The Children’s Discovery as learning about honey and wax Adams University, will present Alison Motion said: “We simply Centre will be open to members of based products. information and advice for could not operate without the the public throughout the four-day Come along and listen to Timmy youngsters interested in a career in invaluable support provided by our event between 9.00am-5pm. The the Turbine, a key character agriculture. volunteers. We need many hands diversity of the activities on offer used to communicate important And if you have particularly small in order to give young visitors to by RHET at the show provides fun messages about renewable energy, ‘farmers of the future’ with you, the Discovery Centre the time educational sessions for children and he will come alive in the form there is always plenty of tractors, and attention required to educate of all ages, helping youngsters of a mascot during storytelling diggers, and cars to occupy little them on where food comes from. understand more about rural life. sessions. minds in the centre. Having such an enthusiastic group For further information visit www. Aside from the interactive With more than 100 volunteers of knowledgeable individuals to call rhet.org.uk/ activities for the younger visitors, working with RHET at the show, upon makes all the difference.”

You can try out your hand milking skills when you meet Mabel, the most milked cow in Scotland

Even hungry lions need to learn how to make healthy meals

32 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk Drop in activities: Eco Garden - Countryside Area be available along with an interactive display Drop in to visit the Show Society’s Eco- and competition as well as the ‘Wheel of Garden – children can take part in planting, Fortune’ game with prizes! Suitable for all he show learn how to create a ‘bug hotel’ as well ages as following a poultry trail to real hens and ducks. Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) - Children’s Discovery Centre - Avenue Q Gorgie City Farm - Flour of Scotland! Meat the facts: Quality Meat Scotland’s - Children’s Discovery Centre, avenue Q Health team will be available to provide Back by popular demand! Use querns information about the role of red meat in a (stone hand mills) to grind grain, and sieve healthy diet, good if pupils have been able out flour. Take your flour home with you to to cook in the cookery theatre. Freebies will make play dough. Suitable for all ages. be available along with an interactive display, competition and prizes. Suitable for primary Harper Adams - 7th Avenue age. Harper Adams is the leading university awarding degrees in the land based sector. Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health Why not stop by their stand and play iPad - Children’s Discovery Centre - Avenue Q game ‘Campus Critters’ Join staff and students from the University Suitable for upper secondary of Aberdeen Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health to find out more about Scotland’s Honey tent - Countryside Area - 4th naturally healthy produce and why it’s so Avenue good for you. Suitable for all ages. Some serious badge-making goes on within the Discovery Pop in to experience what it is like to be a Centre beekeeper, make your own candles or taste SEARS (Scotland’s Environmental some honey! Suitable for all ages and Rural Services) - Sears tent, next to Forestry Arena, 4th Avenue The Road Safety Village - The Lifestyle A variety of events and activities for Village, Avenue T children to join in and celebrate the Year of A visit to the Road Safety Village is a must Natural Scotland 2013. Suitable for all ages for anyone wanting to know more about keeping themselves safe on Scotland’s Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) - 7th roads. Suitable for all ages Avenue Visit Scotland’s dedicated agricultural Marks and Spencer - beside the Main and land based college were you will have Ring, 7th Avenue the opportunity to talk to staff and current Farming for the Future with M&S: with students about courses and future careers. interactive experiences to help you discover Suitable for upper secondary. Farming for the Future. You’ll also be able to try some tasty regional produce and see The Scottish Society for the Prevention of chefs demonstrating. Suitable for all ages Cruelty to Animals - Avenue T The Scottish SPCA is Scotland’s animal National Sheep Association - NSA welfare charity. Pop along to the stand marquee, Avenue O (behind the to find out how you can book a free grandstand) educational visit to your primary school, play An educational sheep trail, demonstrating the tombola and meet some animals looking the place of the Scottish sheep and wool for new homes. Suitable for all ages. industry in the rural environment. Fleeces to look at and touch, plus demonstrations, The British Horse Society Scotland including wool spinning, and knitting, and a - Equestrian Village - Avenue 16 fashion show. Suitable for all ages The British Horse Society is your one- Colouring in, while learning something new about the stop-shop for everything horsey. Have all countryside and food Outdoortrax - Countryside Area your horse and pony questions answered. Outdoortrax are specialists in outdoor The friendly team will be delighted to talk fun activities. Pop along and try walking on to children and answer their questions. A water! Suitable for all ages. special children’s leaflet is available and a kids competition. Suitable for all ages. The Poultry Tent - East Side of Countryside Area Meet Timmy the Turbine - Renewables Come and see the wonderful display of area poultry provided by Ms Dorinda Fontana on Come along to have fun learning about Thursday and Friday. The show’s poultry renewable energy and meet Timmy the show takes place on Saturday in their own Turbine. Timmy will welcome children every large marquee where birds will compete in day between 2-4pm. You can also take more than100 classes. part in our Timmy the Turbine colouring in competition any time a day. There will be little turbines to look at and touch. Suitable Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) - QMS for ages 3-10. stand, Avenue O Red Meat - From Farm to Plate: QMS’ NB: These activities cannot be main stand has lots of information, free Children love using the querns (stone hand mills) to grind booked in advance. grain, and sieve out flour. Then they can take your flour home publications, posters and recipe books will to make play dough COUNTRYlifestyle / 33 RHS Hot foot it to A STROLL around the Food Hall is a true highlight of every Highland Show. Top producers from the length and breadth of the UK are gathered together to showcase the diverse range of premium foods that Britain has to offer. Here are just a few to tempt you. Fentimans Guilt free ice- provide the fizz NEEDING REFRESHED? cream alternative Pop along and visit Fentimans (est. 1905) which produces botanically brewed beverages, - yes, please! ranging from the fiery Traditional Ginger Beer to Mash Direct BELHAVEN FRUIT Farm presents the delicate and floral Rose Mash Direct is a unique award-winning IceDelight, a fat-free, dairy-free, gluten- Lemonade. New to the market family owned farming and food production free and full of fruit alternative to ice is the selection of premium enterprise located on their farm in County cream, now available in delicious soft mixers including Tonic Water Down. Producing an innovative range of quality, serve. IceDelight is everything you wish and Ginger Ale. Another convenient vegetable and potato dishes ranging ice-cream could be and more. Blending favourite with the public from traditional accompaniments of mashed Belhaven’s home-grown Scottish fruit is Hollows and Fentimans potato and champ to complete vegetable- with an authentic Italian recipe to create a Alcoholic Ginger Beer (4% based ready-meals with the taste and texture luxurious treat as healthy and as tasty as abv). All Fentimans products of homemade food, suitable for microwave and real fruit. With a range of homemade jams are made with the finest, oven heating. and chutneys available for purchase, this 100% natural ingredients. The Mash Direct team will be sampling and stand is a must visit. Pop along for a free selling their products, including four delicious taster… varieties of potato croquettes. Pop along and visit the stand A10. www.mashdirect.com PremiumOils andDressings From theheartofScotland.

SummerHarve st Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil Scanfor Ferneyfold Farm, Madderty, moreinfo! Johnson’s Toffees Crieff, Perthshire,PH7 3PE [email protected] FOR MORE than 80 years, Johnson’s Toffees have been producing www.summerharvestoils.co.uk a whole range of different flavours of toffee and fudge all to the same T: 01786474770 mouth watering standards. Using the best ingredients, including pure dairy butter and full cream F: 01786201086 condensed milk, and with traditional manufacturing techniques, Johnson’s products have a distinctive taste and are highly regarded in the confectionery trade. Tradition also extends to their service, which is friendly and personal. Visit us at the RoyalHighlandShow Stand A09

34 / COUNTRYlifestyle the Food Hall

Good Natured Fruit GOOD NATURED is a range of pesticide residue-free fruits, salads and potatoes. Using traditional growing methods and beneficial predators to reduce reliance on pesticides, giving Findlater’s pate peace of mind that you are eating nothing but the fruit. Their succulent strawberries are juicy and FINDLATER’S STARTED life as a restaurant and delicatessan in Linlithgow in 2004. The deli delicious and a real taste of summer! sold the handmade paté made in their restaurant, which was such a success that they had to Good Natured Fruit grows varieties which are build a bigger kitchen to cope with demand. hardy and naturally resistant to pests and diseases. By Findlater’s patés are still hand-made in small batches, using ingredients and methods you’d growing in glasshouses and tunnels, they reduce the expect to see in a high quality restaurant kitchen. This allows them to consistently deliver pest and disease pressure on the plants which means exceptional flavours and textures. the plants can get on with the important job of growing! The delicious flavours produced include a range of patés featuring chicken, duck and venison This natural way of controlling pests and disease recipes. They also offer an exciting range of vegetarian and fish varieties and all of the patés are ensures the fruit and vegetables are the safest they naturally free of gluten, offering something for everyone who appreciates good paté. You will find can be and are as Good Natured as they are! For Findlater’s at stand B10 in the Food Hall. more information visit www.goodnaturedfruit.co.uk, or pop along to stand A08 for a fruity treat. Great Glen Game

GREAT GLEN Game, an Artisan producer of wild venison charcuterie, has been selected to be part of a showcase of producers representing the Highlands and Islands in the Food Hall. Great Glen Game is based in the Old Butchershop in Roy Bridge and uses sustainably sourced local wild venison to produce a delicious range of charcuterie, including salami, chorizo, pepperoni, smoked venison and bresaola. Their products are available from independent retailers such as farm-shops, delicatessens and food halls. The charcuterie is also used by Michelin starred chefs and on menus in restaurants across the country. www.greatglengame.co.uk Shaw meats Shaw Meats are a unique company specialising in the production of artisan salamis and cured meats, based in Cumbria. Shaw meats has been in Macsween existence for 14 years, with Barry and his crew producing a wide range of tasty sticks or slices of salami with a high meat content – flavours include MACSWEEN ARE a third generation family company which has solway, basil and oregano, chorizo, been at the forefront of haggis and black pudding making for 60 years. garlic and firecrackers. Honouring a long tradition, producing food handcrafted to unique The cured meats are produced the family recipes using the finest ingredients. As pioneers of Scotland’s old fashioned, timely way, and the national dish, they are passionate about taking haggis to a new place company are lucky enough to have in an environmentally and ethically sustainable manner and extolling local gamekeepers who supply the haggis as a versatile ingredient, perfect for all seasons, occasions and venison for their Cumbrian air-dried places. venison. The pheasants, partridge and Visit the Macsween Kitchen at the Royal Highland Show to pick up goose that is used in the produce is their award winning products and hot haggis meals; get recipe inspiration, also sourced from local gamekeepers. cooking tips and signed copies of the Macsween Haggis Bible from Jo Try these tasty morsels at stand 24F in and James Macsween. Food Hall stand G10. the Food Hall.

COUNTRYlifestyle / 35 RHS Hot foot it to the Food Hall Trotter’s Independent Condiments TROTTER’S INDEPENDENT Condiments was started in 2009 by 22-year-old Byam Trotter cooking Mostarda in his parent’s kitchen and selling it to the local farm shops. Now, nearly four years later, Trotter’s Independent Dairy fresh condiments is selling all over Britain, from the Shetland Isles all the way down to Somerset goodies from and many places in between, Condiments specialise in making foraged wild garlic leaves. Other including House of Bruar and unusual recipes such as Wild tasty condiments in the range Rowan Glen Harvey Nichols. Garlic Pesto, which is a seasonal include Mojito Marmalade and Trotter’s Independent condiment that uses hand Mostarda. NESTLED IN the heart of Galloway, Rowan Glen has been providing Scottish consumers with great tasting dairy products since 1993. Using only the freshest, locally sourced Scottish milk from neighbouring farms, the team at Rowan Glen produce a range of great tasting, versatile dairy products for Scottish consumers who favour trusted, quality, local brands. Rowan Glen has steadily grown to become Scotland’s largest and only yogurt producer. Due to consumer demand, the product portfolio has been expanded over the years, which now includes a range of butters, spreads, cheeses, and (more recently) low fat yogurt drinks. Rowan Glen was delighted to launch its first ever media campaign in 2011. The quirky yet distinctively Scottish creative is based around ‘Gwen and Jen’ – two Some like it hot, hot, hot! nosy cows spying on the Rowan Glen factory. PRODUCING UNIQUELY spiced chilli in a jar, SIMPLYaddCHILLI is manufactured using only seven key Rowan Glen has enjoyed great fresh ingredients, with fresh strawberries and red chilli’s being the two main components, this gives the success over the past few years, most product its clean fresh taste, aroma and fabulous colour! It is fat free, salt free and oil free, therefore, does notably the entry into the TNS Top 15 not contain colouring, preservatives or artificial flavours. Scottish Grocery Brands in 2012, which SIMPLYaddCHILLI comes in three strengths, mild, wild and extreme, and can be used on its own, with is a testament to the quality of the yogurts bread, cheese, biscuits, as a marinade on fish, chicken and meat or a perfect cooking ingredient for pasta, produced at the site in Newton Stewart. soups and stews. Pop along for a zinging taster on stand D08. Snowdonia Cheese Company

THE ROOTS of the Snowdonia Cheese Company evolved from the change in food and farming in the latter part of the last century. The globalised food production model was emerging, and consumers wanted to return to localised foods as an important part of their diet. Snowdonia set out with a 21-year business plan in 2001 to define itself as a regional champion of food, and to build its market in the UK and in export over the longer term. Snowdonia Cheese Company have attended the Royal Highland show for more than 10 years and have a loyal customer base who return to buy each year. You will find them at stand A11 in the food hall. www.snowdoniacheese.co.uk

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Scotland rugby players Roddy Grant and David Denton take a cookery lesson with Ardrossan Academy pupils; from left Ben Campbell, David West and Sophie Gribben, at last year’s show Busy show ahead for QMS

THE ROYAL Highland Show is a fantastic to a tight 20 minute deadline. opportunity for our industry to showcase ‘There will also be Our Scotch Beef brand ambassadors all the work, skills and dedication which Ready Steady Cook will be giving away goodie bags filled with goes into the production of Scotch Beef, tempting recipes (you’ll find more at www. Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork. style competitions on scotchbeefandlamb.com) as well as offering The Quality Meat Scotland team will the opportunity to win dinner, bed and be pulling out all the stops to ensure this Saturday and Sunday breakfast for two at Kinloch Lodge. opportunity is maximised – from cookery and where some of The There will also be the chance to win the butchery demonstrations on our stand to much sought after limited edition Royal health and education activities. Scottish Farmer staff Highland Show 2013 Scotch Beef t-shirts. During recent months QMS have been Visitors to the stand will be encouraged to encouraging consumers to ‘Get Behind the and Young Farmer download QMS’ free apps –“Perfect Steaks Label’ and show their support for the labels, members will battle it and Roasts” and the corporate QMS app which guarantee 100% Scottish origin and a – and there will be a line-up of award-winning high standard of production and welfare through out against the clock’ butchers demonstrating their skills on the our world-leading quality assurance schemes. stand with Douglas Scott, chief executive Visitors to the QMS stand will be able of the Scottish Federation of Meat Traders to view cattle, sheep and pigs housed on Associations, providing a lively commentary. the stand and hear direct from stockmen QMS’ work on behalf of the red meat about the high standards involved in their industry at the show also includes encouraging production and about the wide range of career show-goers to be aware of red meat’s role in a opportunities our industry offers. healthy diet. They will also be welcoming visitors to the More than 1000 children will have a chance free and very popular cookery theatre on the to cook simple, nutritious dishes with beef, stand, which this year will be compered by pork and lamb at the show. Marie-Claire James. QMS works with the Royal Highland Lady Claire Macdonald will entertain the Education Trust (RHET) to deliver this initiative crowds on Thursday and Friday with her which takes place in the Scotch Beef irrepressible enthusiasm and energy as well as Children’s Cookery Theatre at the Discovery her fabulous culinary skills. Centre where we will have also have a stand Chef Steve Craik will take over the reins on manned by our Health and Education staff. Saturday and well-known celebrity chef Nick As well as levy payers QMS also welcomes Nairn will wow the audience on Sunday. numerous officials and politicians to the stand In addition to our demonstration chefs, during the show as well as key contacts in there will also be Ready Steady Cook style traditional and new media. competitions on Saturday and Sunday where The Royal Highland Show is a livestock farming spectacle like no other anywhere in the some of The Scottish Farmer staff and Young Celebrity chef Nick Nairn, who will be demonstrating Farmer members will battle it out against the in the QMS Cookery Theatre along with Lady Claire world and QMS is looking forward to seeing clock, attempting to create delicious dishes Macdonald and chef Steve Craik you there!

38 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

Luxury hotels and exquisite food are on offer, along with amazing beaches Cayman Islands bringing sunshine to the show

THE CAYMAN Islands Department of Tourism will be bringing some Caribbean sunshine to the show this year, the first time they have exhibited here. The Cayman Islands are located In the Caribbean, 150 miles south of Cuba, 480 miles south of Miami and 180 miles to the north west of Jamaica, so not the closest of destinations, but it is a paradise when you get there. There are three islands in total, each quite different in character. Of the The NSA fashion show has become a firm hit with showgoers three islands, Grand Cayman is the largest, measuring eight miles across at its widest, and 22 miles long, and has the most developed infrastructure of all three. Rugged Cayman Brac is the second largest, and Little Cayman is a small, sleepy paradise island, and the least developed of all three. Jigsaw teams up with Recognised as one of the world’s best diving and snorkelling destinations, with colourful protected reefs, an abundance of tropical fish, the famous Cayman Wall which plunges to 1800 metres – and shipwrecks to provide the NSA for another trip excitement for divers of all abilities. Whether you are looking for an island paradise to get married, for a family holiday, to enjoy the sealife, or the amazing food and luxury hotels, the down the runway Cayman Islands has it all on offer. Pop along to see the Tourist Department on their stand where there will be THE NATIONAL Sheep Association’s Scottish Region’s marquee at the many activities to take part in, including a prize draw for a Cayman Islands Royal Highland Show will be the centre stage for High Street fashion goody bag filled with gifts including Cayman Islands trolley bag, plus large store Jigsaw to unveil their autumn clothes collection. Caymanas Rum Cake, Leather travel wallet, luggage tags, bottle of Seven With one fashion show taking place on the Friday, 12am-1pm and two Fathoms rum, bottle of hot pepper sauce, cuddly blue iguana, coffee mug, fashion shows on the Saturday, at 11am-12 noon and again at 1pm-2pm and note book. there will be plenty of opportunities for you to come and see what’s hot for next season. ■ There will be Peg Loom Weaving demonstrations on Thursday afternoon (2pm-5pm) and also throughout the four days there will be the opportunity for people to watch and take part in spinning, felt making and knitting. ■ The fleece judging will be judged on Thursday morning, with the result being announced at 12.30m. ■ The lamb dressing competition will take place at 2pm down at the sheep rings on the Sunday. ■ On display all weekend there will be a variety of breeds of sheep from all over the UK. Within the marquee there will also be breed society stands, this offers people the chance to gain information on sheep breeds from all over the UK, as well as getting to see them face to face. Also on display will be the British Wool Marketing Board and The Campaign for Wool. The NSA marquee is the place to go if you are interested in seeing all the benefits of the sheep industry, to find out more pop in for a visit at the NSA marquee. Look out for a ‘celebrity’ model who will take to the runway What a view... who could fail to relax in these surroundings? sporting the finest of Scottish wool garments. COUNTRYlifestyle / 39 RHS

LADIES! WE all know that even though we enjoy the agricultural side of the show, what we really look forward to is heading to the shopping Let’s go marquees. There is an enormous amount of variety on show at The Royal Highland and whether you are looking for clothes, crafts or art, you won’t be disappointed. Here is a small selection of what is on offer. shopping! The Really Wild clothing Company THE TRIP north from Berkshire to Scotland to attend The Royal Highland Show is certainly an annual highlight for The Really Wild Clothing Company. It’s always a fabulous chance to showcase the current collection and to offer some special sale prices to some of the companies strongest customers. Along with this, exhibiting at RHS is a great opportunity to maximise the Really Wild Clothing brand north of the border. The Really Wild Clothing Company’s collection has the effortless style and sense of luxury associated with British heritage. Original tweeds, in carefully coordinated colours, complement and enhance a Really Wild lifestyle. Their business is designing and producing contemporary classics that appeal to those with an eye for fashion and sense of fun whatever the age. Stand number 849 in the shopping arcade. www.reallywildclothing.co.uk

Cocoon quality rainwear WATERPROOF, WASHABLE, long-lasting made to measure raincoats by Cocoon will again be available at the show. These unique raincoats come in 14 different styles for women and men and in a range of 11 great colours. Matching accessories include hoods, hats and warm, detachable, wool rich linings. Cocoon began in 1985 in Alexandria and are now made in a converted granary workshop in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside. SPECIAL READER OFFER

Receive a FREE HAT (worth up to £79) with any coat or jacket purchased at catalogue price.

This offer is also open to phone, mail or web orders. Just quote ‘SFR13’ in your order. Offer closes June 30, 2013 Tel. 01869 337770 www. cocoon-online.com Cocoon is on Avenue 13 Special offer only for The Scottish Farmer readers

40 / COUNTRYlifestyle For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk

Fortune Favours the Brave - A range of clothing featuring Scotland’s Dido and Bendigo favourite characters launches at the show - children’s country couture IN 2012 FFTB acquired the licence to produce a range of T-shirts, aprons and towels for both Scotland’s favourite son and favourite DIDO AND Bendigo bring British family – Oor Wullie and The Broons. country style to children’s fashion. Oor Wullie and The Broons come in a range of unisex t-shirts and Oor Exclusive lambswool tweeds inspire Wullie has his very own apron and towel range too. Kids t-shirts for both their first collection, creating characters will also be launching at the Royal Highland Show. clothing that become heirlooms All of these products are exclusive to FFTB and are available at the and make children feel special. RHS in the 3D2D tent and also at www.fortunefavours.net Stylish and fun – the perfect look for any occasion – the collection is emphatically British from cloth to production. Featuring timeless classics such as the Merlin Blazer, Clara Pinafore and D&B Shooting Jackets with original pieces including the Owl Snowsuit ‘All-in-One’ and Puffin Coat for toddlers, Dido and Bendigo create clothes as unique and vibrant as children are. Dido and Bendigo is delighted to showcase their collection in Scotland, the home of tweed and look forward to welcoming you on their stand at The Royal Highland Show in the shopping arcade. Find D&B clothing online at www.didoandbendigo.co.uk or, you can call on 01424 772520 Piping hot stoves IF YOU like the idea of a cosy home with an economical fuel bill, then pop along and visit Piping Hot Stoves at the Highland Show, the company pride themselves on offering class leading products at the best possible price. A family business which selects innovative and stylish products from leading European manufacturers, the criteria is simple, if it can’t beat the market leading product, then they won’t sell it. With a range of wood fired stoves, fireplace inserts, solid fuel cookers and pellet boilers together with everything you need to fit them, it’s a one stop shop for all your heating needs. With years of experience the company knows how to help you design the right heating for your home. So no matter what your needs are they will be able to help you choose the right solid fuel heating system for you, with all the items you need to install it.

COUNTRYlifestyle / 41 Let’s go

shContinued from previousop page ping! Angela Davidson artwork A firm favourite with the farming fraternity is the artwork of Angela Davidson, and this year you will have to get there early before the stock is sold out. Angela has this year been working on a Simmental bull especially for the show, which will be available to buy at the stand. Also on sale will be a limited edition print, of which only one hundred copies will be produced. The print Angela’s is titled No Turning latest Back and features works Angela’s son Lawrie will on a Clydesdale horse be named Jake (left). available A variety of to other new works buy include paintings at of Black Grouse, the Golden Retrievers, show Suffolk sheep and a Shorthorn cow. www. angeladavidsonart. co.uk Stirling tastes good

STIRLING HAS some terrific food Katy Rodgers producers, and will be showcasing their Creamery, below, with talents once again at this year’s Royal her home made ice Highland Show. cream from her dairy The Stirling Tastes Good stand will be herd brimming over with some of the finest food and drink produce that the region has to offer. Available to sample and purchase will be award winning ice-cream, yogurts, beers, butchery products, whisky, breads and mushrooms. Stirling extends an open invitation to food and drink fans and showgoers to stop POP ALONG to the food hall for a taster from by and visit the stand, indulge in some some of the following exhibitors: sampling and to take home a taste of the Edenmill Farm region. There will also be on-stand cookery Katy Rodgers Creamery displays over the four-days incorporating The Extraordinary Sausage Co all Stirling exhibitors’ produce. Mhor Get Juiced travel

Highland Perthshire...... where the heart is

By Gordon Davidson scale mountain cited by some as name translates as ‘Fairy Hill of the are ever likely to see outside of the the heart of Scotland, its summit Caledonians’. Alps, standing alone and rising to marking the intersection of the lines Sitting at the eastern point of a classical point when viewed from THERE WAS a distinct feeling of of latitude and longitude that most Loch Rannoch, Schiehallion is the west – most conveniently from adventure afoot in the Davidson evenly divide Scotland’s compass perhaps the most satisfyingly the village of Kinloch Rannoch, family automobile as we left the point extremities. From the gaelic, its mountain-shaped mountain you which itself enjoys a somewhat cold comfort of the A9 behind, and Tyrolean character thanks to this struck out westwards for Kinloch epic backdrop. Rannoch. I’m told that it is a manageable On what had turned out to be far six-mile walk up Schiehallion and from the best of spring evenings, back, made a bit easier lately by we’d taken the Highland highway some substantial path re-routing to 30 miles north of Perth – a and improvement undertaken by the piffling wee drive of less than two John Muir Trust. hours from Glasgow, despite the To be honest, I haven’t tried it unexpected snow – and hadn’t felt yet – although judging from other particularly far from home until the people’s summit photographs, I moment we took a big left turn at really should make that effort whilst Pitlochry and swapped the biggest my legs are still in good order. road in the region for what quickly When we arrived at Kinloch felt like one of its smallest. Rannoch, night had fallen, along The first couple of vertiginous with a fair bit of snow, and both bends plunged us into deep dark Davidson jnr and Davidson who- woodland and our progress had to must-be-obeyed were already be moderated to the stately pace nodding off as the car gently of a horse-drawn carriage, adding slalomed its way through this epic to the overall impression that we’d countryside. somehow slipped sideways into a Our bed for the night was to fairytale. be at West Carie, a self-catering This was fitting, as ahead of West Carie cottage, on the south shore of Loch Rannoch, provided a very us lay Schiehallion, the Munro- comfortable retreat after exploring the sights of Highland Perthshire Continued on next page

COUNTRYlifestyle / 43 travel ‘People make the ...where the heart is mistake of Continued from previous page thinking the Highlands are far away, but here they are, in all their glory, on the doorstep of the Central Belt ’

LOUISE HARDWICK, LIARN FARM

Duncan Richardson gives the Camusericht stags their last feed of the winter cottage on the south shore of Loch bathrooms, a modern kitchen, a the way less than a mile across, is “People make the mistake of Rannoch, a few miles beyond the utility, a fine boot porch and, in ringed by a well-maintained public thinking the Highlands are far away, village, and aware of my flagging that extension, a splendid living road that dips and dives round the but here they are, in all their glory, family, I had been silently praying room where, although there was lochside without ever offering too on the doorstep of the Central Belt. to myself that the accommodation no climatic need for me to light the steep a challenge to the cyclists that It is just the most beautiful place.” would be in good order for our log-burning stove, the crackle and flock to the area. We discuss the wisdom of arrival. I prayed needlessly, because glow of a real fire was just too good A leisurely circumnavigation round keeping chickens, ducks and if there is a more pleasant place to resist. to the opposite, northern bank, rabbits in such close proximity than West Carie to step into on a Within minutes – literally about took us to visit Louise and Brian to hills teaming with predatory cold Highland night, I have yet to five – we were thoroughly at home, Hardwick, at Liarn Farm, where wildlife – the area is home to both find it. the kettle was on, the wine was another effective conversion has pine martens and otters, while Up a short driveway that starts open and our feet were well and turned a veteran farm steading, buzzards are not the biggest meat- right at the lochside, externally the truly up. Isolated, peaceful, blissful sitting on the old ‘Road to the eaters circling above – but Louise cottage looks like a traditional stone- – but with broadband Internet and Isles’, into six self-catering cottages reckoned it was worth the effort of built but’n’ben, albeit an extremely satellite telly all present and correct, frequented by a loyal clientelle of maintaining protective sheds and well maintained one. should one have been gripped by visitors from around the UK and pens, as the urban kids set loose at Inside, however, there has been a the irrational need to check on the overseas. Liarn will happily fill their days with very thorough and well-considered outside world. Gazing south across the loch, as the routine of animal care, while their renovation of the building’s old After a smashing night’s sleep, the Hardwick’s flock of Jacob sheep mums and dads luxuriate in the fabric, as well as a sympathetically we breakfasted on fresh bread, led by their matriarch, Geraldine, peace that follows. designed modern extension added croissants and fruity brioche from clustered round in expectation of Leaving Liarn, we headed back at the back. As they scuttled about the Rannoch Bakery, toasted and a treat (cream crackers, naturally) along the north shore to Kinloch exploring this interior, the discovery spread with local butter and honey, there wasn’t really any need to ask Rannoch for lunch at Treats, a small of each pristine new room elicited and were pleasantly surprised to why, once discovered, people kept but exquisitely formed cafe-giftshop an ‘ooh’ from the revived girls, while find that the previous night’s wintry coming back to Highland Perthshire. that is something of a lynchpin of I offered up my own substantial character had been a mere blip, “We’re only a few hours from the local tourism trade. ‘aah’ as my feet registered the and the sun was back on duty Glasgow and its another planet, Drawn out by the sun, swift underfloor heating beneath the outside, giving us a good look at our isn’t it?” offered Louise, while flurries of cyclists came and went, rustic tiles. splendid surroundings. Davidson junior, still buzzing from topping up on caffeine and quality Though you wouldn’t know Loch Rannoch, a narrow gouge a wee ride on the back of the farm carbohydrates, while checking it from the outside, West Carie in the Perthshire hills that runs ATV, ran about feeding chickens out the luminosity of each other’s harbours three bedrooms, two roughly nine miles east-to-west, all and gathering eggs. lycra. Inspired by all this activity,

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Feeding time at Liarn Farm for Ant’n’Dec the lambs Loch Ericht looking north (and an excellent mermaid rock)

Continued on next page

COUNTRYlifestyle / 45 travel

Above: Dunkeld Cathedral, a must visit for lovers of Above: The views history, and not too far from the thriving centre of from Pine Cone town Point across the Tay to Dunkeld and Continued from previous to the mountains in page the north are quite spectacular we embarked on a pre-lunch stroll round a ‘treasure trail’ helpfully set out by the Rannoch and Tummel Tourism Association, which took us past the stunning Alt Mor waterfall on the edge of the village, out and up through mature woodland to complete a checklist of various local landmarks, then back round towards the cafe along a tidy new lochside pathway typical of the fresh investment apparent in much of the area’s touristic infrastructure. Appetite suitably sharpened, I opted for Treats’ ploughman’s platter, and what a hungry ploughman he must have been, judging by the heap of local cheeses, ham, pickle and green leaves that I received and happily devoured, while the ladies set about various toasties and baguettes, all the time saving space for something from the marvelous selection of cakes and pastries goading them from the counter top. Treats relies heavily on local ingredients, and quite rightly so, because Highland Perthshire is bursting with businesses producing the very best of Scottish food, not least the Rannoch Smokery, from whence came my excellent ham, plus a taster selection of cured duck, venison and beef. Nearby, the rural metropolis of Pitlochry is attaining something of a reputation as a foodie hangout, with several top-end restaurants, delicatessens and specialist shops persistently dragging its average up and away from the tepid tea’n’scone offerings of the Highland bus tour circuit. There are still scones, of course, but if you pick the right place, they’ll be fresh baked and served with a selection of local jams, rather than pre-wrapped catering portions. BRIAN HARDWICK and Shona the Shetland at Liarn Farm

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Water spectacle as the Allt Mor burn tumbles down Meall Dubh and ...where the heart is into the village of Kinloch Rannoch “Halfway up the hill, when they see me coming with the Land Rover, some of them will stick out a thumb,” he smiled. “But that wouldn’t be in the spirit of thing, would it, so I just wave as I go past.” As we ourselves hit the half-way point between Rannoch and Ericht, Duncan brought us to a hushed stop and pointed out across the moor, where a great golden eagle circled lazily in search of its next meal, the only creature for miles around enjoying an even better view than us. That night, our hunger re- invigorated by all that high altitude fresh air, we popped into the area’s biggest hotel, the Macdonald Loch Rannoch, to check out the menu in its Ptarmigan restaurant. True to local form, it was dedicated to Scottish produce, with an organic slant, and proved thoroughly delicious, justifying our decision to go for the full three courses. Had we had a scrap of energy Cycling fuel as served by Treats in Kinloch Rannoch remaining, we might then have taken advantage of the plush pool, spa and gym that the Macdonald Plates licked clean, an afternoon Duncan, was to provide the local Ericht pointing off into the distance. boasts, but as it was, the most snooze might have easily taken Robertson clan with refuge from While Duncan’s business is very appealing plan was to get ourselves away the rest of our day, but we enemies, perhaps even wolves. much in the care and provision of back along to West Carie, light up resolved to keep upright and walk More fancifully, local lore has it a healthy deer population for the the fires, dip into a fresh bottle of off the torpor under the guidance that, should a high-born maiden’s shooting parties that descend during wine and enjoy another superbly of head deerstalker, Duncan virtue have been deemed in peril, open season, he is well aware of restful night in our new home-from- Richardson, of Camusericht Lodge, what better place to preserve her his role as general guardian of the home. at the western end of the loch. chastity than 30 metres out into a wild expanse under his jurisdiction On our way along to meet him, freezing cold loch? Even if a suitor and is more than happy to welcome Links: we gazed in wonder at the ancient could make the swim, it’d be a while ramblers inside his boundaries, so tower seemingly rising from the before his ardour warmed up again. long as they observe the Access www.highlandperthshire.org/ midst of the loch, and made its That riddle almost resolved, we Code. www.rannochandtummel.co.uk history our first question to Duncan, boarded Duncan’s Land Rover Among the regular visitors to www.westcariecottage.co.uk/ who explained that it was built on an Defender and he treated us to a those hills are youth organisations www.liarn-farm.co.uk/ artificial island – or crannog – which spectacular tour of his beat, rapidly working towards achievements www.rannochtreats.co.uk/ was now mostly submerged by rising up from Loch Rannoch and like the Queen’s or Duke of www.lochericht.co.uk/ the two metre rise in the water over driving across the high plateau Edinburgh badges, for which both recent decades. northwards until we reached the the topography and scenery offer www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ Its historical purpose, reckoned long exclamation mark of Loch a suitably awe-inspiring challenge: our-hotels/macdonald-loch- rannoch-hotel/ COUNTRYlifestyle / 47 travel Uig Lodge

Elly Green, who runs the lodge, along with her husband Dickon, welcomes anglers from all over the country

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Experience the Isle of Lewis from the comfort of this spectacular lodge

By Karen Carruth their guests’ needs. the chance to try out their culinary skills, or Uig Lodge is a traditional and working you can rent the lodge with their experienced sporting estate which boasts the magnificent chef on hand to cook all your meals – why IF YOU received a postcard describing lodge with a comfortable and homely wouldn’t you! turquoise sea, white sands, dramatic atmosphere. The lodge sleeps 15 in three Breakfast lunch and supper is prepared by mountains and shimmering lochs, I doubt doubles, four twins and one single; nearly the chef, with the emphasis on fresh, local you would immediately think of the Isle of all of which have incredible sea or mountain produce such as lobster, scallops, prawns, Lewis. views to rival anywhere in the world. black pudding, salmon, venison and lamb. Uig Lodge makes a statement just by its Three of the bedrooms are en-suite and With 300 acres of fresh air surrounding the location. Dramatic, remote, and magnificent there are two additional family bathrooms. lodge, the Green family welcomes guests views in every direction from Uig Bay on Downstairs includes a comfortable sitting throughout the year. It is particularly popular Lewis’ west coast. room with an open peat fire, a large dining during the fishing season with groups of The house was originally built as a fishing room, a TV/children’s room, a laundry room anglers coming to take advantage of an lodge in 1876 by Sir James Matheson, who and a well equipped and recently refurbished entire fishing system on which to test your at the time owned the Isle of Lewis. It is now kitchen. skill. in the hands of the Green family and run by Even though you are in the wilds, there is The Fhorsa System begins in Loch Dickon and Ellie Green, passed down into no need to leave the rest of the world behind, Suainaval, runs into Loch Slacsavat, and then their care from their family, who bought Uig unless you want to, as there is a stereo with meanders through river pools, before flowing Lodge as a family home in 1981. an iPod docking station in the sitting room out into the sea via the Bruton Stream. It is The Greens took over the running of and wi-fi is available throughout the lodge. here where one has the rare opportunity of the lodge two years ago, and have moved Depending on the time of year, you have catching a salmon on the fly in salt water, themselves and their family into the cottage the choice of either renting the lodge on a which sits nearby, in order to take care of self-catering basis, which gives your group Continues on next page COUNTRYlifestyle / 49 travel

Being in such a location the chances of meeting the local wildlife is pretty high Continued from previous page making Uig a unique fly fishing to go stalking and shooting, take fascinating history so take time to destination. speedboat trips, and, recently visit the Stones of Callanish, the How to get there: Whether you prefer to fish from a discovered in an old map, a 1930s distilleries or tweed factories or if boat in the loch or from the banks of nine-hole golf course has been history is your bag, take a trip to the UIG LODGE is on the west coast the river, an experienced ghillie will restored and it is just for the use of World Heritage site at St Kilda. of the Isle of Lewis, the largest be on hand to get you into the right residents, so no waiting to play. As an aside from renting the island of the Outer Hebrides, place. Depending on the time of Of course, the weather is lodge, the Green family also run which lie off the north-west coast year, you can fish for salmon, brown definitely of the West Coast of the Uig Lodge Smokery, prime of Scotland’s mainland. Lewis trout, ferox trout and sea trout, or if Scotland variety and Dickon advises Scottish Atlantic Salmon is bought is also attached to Harris, which you prefer sea fishing, take a trip on guests to come prepared for all from local farms and smoked and makes an interesting tour, even if the estate RIB in search of mackerel, climes. Over the last 15 months, cured at Uig, producing award the weather is bad. pollock and a free adrenalin rush. they have had some unusually dry winning smoked salmon. As well Calmac runs a daily car Recently the annual catch has weather, but the usual Hebridean as the salmon, in 2008 Uig started ferry service from Ullapool to numbered more than 100 salmon, weather can be blustery and wet, to smoke organic sea trout and a Stornoway and from the Isle of 50 sea trout and 400 brown trout, a so pack your wardrobe accordingly. year later were awarded a second Skye to Tarbet. Private yachts superb all round fishery for guests, But, as Dickon says: “If you are and third Great Taste Award Gold can be sailed into Miavig, which and it has challenges to suit both the lucky and get good weather, then Star for their cold smoked and hot is less than five miles from Uig beginner and the more experienced why would you even consider being smoked salmon. A truly Scottish Lodge. angler. inside?” hideaway where family memories You can also fly to Stornoway If fishing doesn’t entice you Take advantage of any good can be created which will last a from Scotland’s major cities, and to Uig, the opportunities to do spells by having bbqs on the beach, lifetime. car hire is available at Stornoway. amazing outdoor activities amid walking for miles, and discover the stunning scenery will. An ideal, and wildlife that surrounds Uig Lodge. ■ Check out the website for more safe base for families, children can Lewis and Harris have a details: www.uiglodge.co.uk have their own adventures in the wild countryside, and pets are also welcome. There is also the opportuntiy

Bed and breakfast:

If the thought of spending your precious time away with a group of friends fills you with horror, you can book the lodge on a bed and breakfast basis. This service is only available if the lodge does not have any group bookings, and is available for £120 per room per night. The lodge does attract lots of anglers, as there are challenges for all levels of expertise

50 / COUNTRYlifestyle Classic Grassmen -Old School In achange of pace from the modern agri-kit normally featured in Grassmen DVDproductions, theyare launching anew title called “Old School” at this year’sHighland Show. Filmed in three locations, this DVDisablast from the past, featuring ahuge variety of older kit in action. Starting with Devonbased LukeFurse and his staff,the team takes their collection of classic Fordsfor a road-run to wind down after they’ve completed their grain harvest (seen in the documentary Sustain The Flame). The lineup includes Luke’sspecial 4wd9600 and V8 7700 conversion along with a couple of County’s, 6cylinder Majors and twoimmaculately restored 5000’s. Of course aroad run isn’t exactly what these tractors were built forsowith abit more bark their capabilities aredemonstrated wherethe load offered by the classic alittle further once the fleet returns to Kane trailers drawsthe true note from Grassmen arelaunching base and apulling strap appears. their respective engines. anew DVDonthe 20th Finallyaone off event wascaptured as June called “Old School” the DunmoreVintage Club smashed the featuring almost 2hours of WorldRecordfor single-chops working Classic tractor action. together in a field which they had set in the previous year.Inthe build up to the main event afew old school machines were seen operating in ahistory of silage £17 demonstration, starting with twohorses towing acutting bar.Avariety of kit took to the field despite the challenging Also featured is a fleet of classic Masseys,operating in the Ballymartin foothills located between the Mourne MountainsandtheIrishSea. Restoration expert Cyril Hannah organised an old school fleet of trailermen to haul wholecrop away from Martin Brothers NewHolland FX harvester.This fleet of tractors arealmost original, with only an immaculate 1135 having undergone a ground conditions of 2012 as aseries of ageing harvesters were put through their paces to entertain ahuge audience.The result wasashow with plenty of variety aside from the manyshapes and sizes featured in the 100+ single-chops which showedupfor the recordattempt. Massey’sonce again Existing titles are appeared to be the tractor of choice available online at butplenty of the drivers stamped their originality with their combinations of www.grassmen.co.uk restoration job over adecade prior.The kit. lineup includes one of the hardtofind V8 1155’salong with Cryril’sown 2680 VISIT US AT THE ROYALHIGHLAND SHOW, INGLISTON, and 1200 Masseys.Each of the tractors is demonstrated in their working clothes EDINBURGH AT STAND No. 44, Avenue A