THE ROTHESIAN

March 2019 Sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club Issue No 85

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club

Hazelwood Kettlebell Club was founded in June 2017 by David & Linda Duguid. Head instructor Linda has trained in kettlebells since 2012 & gained her Kettlebell qualification, Certified Kettle- bell Teacher (CKT) in April 2015. David worked alongside Linda, learning the ropes of a kettlebell instructor, & gained his Level 1 Fitness Kettlebell instructor in March 2018. The club quickly grew & it became quite clear that a few more hands on deck were needed. In 2018 Anna MacLeod, Marian Low & Tracy Fordyce gained their Level 1 Fitness Kettlebell instructor certificates. All three had trained at the club since day one & were very keen to further their kettlebell journey. In the club’s short time it has achieved so much: hosting competitions, competing in competitions all over the UK & all doing pretty well at them. The best achievement has been getting folk into kettlebells & enjoying it.

The club has a fantastic mix of folk: young; not so young; tall; small; male; and female. Anyone can do kettlebells & the club is open to anyone. Kettlebells is a great all-rounder for muscle tone, weight loss, strength & fitness. Before anyone can join in a regular class they must take part in the induction classes. These are specifi- cally designed to get you using the kettlebell safely & also to ease you in. Anyone interested in finding out more about kettle- bells can find the club on Facebook or email Linda on [email protected] or text/phone on 07717118823. Classes run on a Monday 6.30pm & Wednesday 6pm from Craigellachie Village Hall. The only thing the club asks of folk is to come along & try it. You might surprise yourself & love it..!

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] MEMORIES was 2010 and the only one I talked to was Evelyn Clerihew (I don't remember her married I have just been going through the Rothesian website name). That was just after Betty passed away. looking at the articles posted on WW1 and came Reading the newsletter brings back so many memo- across an article in March 1915 which I don't remem- ries. I have seen quite a few aerial pictures on Rothes ber reading but that is over three years ago so I must recently on Facebook and the town looks about twice have read it as I read the newsletter every time on e- the size it used to be. mail as soon as I get it. One of the fellows who lives in the senior residence The article was an old letter written by Winnie Watson was in the Canadian Airforce and was stationed in in 1931 and was printed in an old school paper. She for a while. He was a pilot and has the wrote it to "Nancy" Distinguished Flying Cross for making so many mis- Reading it now brings back memories of my old Girl sions across to Europe.. Guide days. I joined in 1942 and Winnie was the lieu- tenant at the time and the captain was Nancy Cright- Pat (Chalmers) Cassidy on. I wondered if she was the Nancy she was writing to. Nancy was the Primary 3 teacher but not when I was in that class. That was Miss Hogan. I think Win- nie took over the Brownie Pack not long after I be- came a Guide and Mima Hodge took over as lieuten- ROTHES TODDLERS ant. She was Johnnie Hodge's sister. There was an article about his death a few newsletters ago. Mima We have had a fun filled start to the year and are all married a soldier during the war and went south to live enjoying seeing our sessions well attended with fami- near Lockerbie. The last time I saw her she was living lies continuing to join us from all around. Each week in Llanbryde. After she left my oldest sister was lieu- there is lots to do in our busy sessions with around 20 tenant. My two younger sisters became Guides too children regularly attending. We meet on a Tuesday but by the time the youngest one became a Guide I morning at The Grant Hall (upstairs) between 9.30 – was a Guider myself and helping a Brownie Pack in 11.30 during term time. Elgin after work. This term we have been making a variety of different On a Wednesday night I finished work at 5.00pm, crafts including footprint penguins, sponge painted rushed to the East End School to the Brownie meeting polar bears and pig masks for Chinese New Year. We and then caught the bus at 6.15pm to get home, grab a have some Old MacDonald themed crafts and Moth- bite to eat and then go to play badminton at the church er’s Day cards to look forward to during the rest of the hall with the church youth group which included Jean term. We will also be visiting Elgin library for a Brian, Beatrice Grant and Johnny Hodge among oth- Bookbug session with songs and rhymes. The chil- ers. dren continue to enjoy our bubble and song time at the I am sorry there are no more Girl Guides in end of each session and have been loving our para- Rothes. My daughter-in-law has been running Sparks, chute and puppets. Toast and bagels have been popu- (I think they are called Rainbows in ) then lar at snack time. Brownies, then Guides, then Pathfinders and then We were very lucky to receive more funding from the Rangers ever since my granddaughter joined as a windfarm. We will be investing in a variety of senso- Spark and then my granddaughter helped her mother ry objects with different materials and textures for the with a Guide group for a while toddlers and babies to explore. There will be a selec- after she finished as a Ranger but they both gave it up tion of new instruments for the children to make music this year. I still belong to the movement as a Trefoil with at song time too. We are excited to see the chil- member but our group is getting smaller because we dren enjoy it all together. are all getting old and some have moved out of the area. Kaz Malcolm, Yori Ferguson, Mandy Mitchell & Kay I don't know if there any other people still living in Dowds. Rothes who were around my age. Both the friends I used to write to - Betty McQueen and Jean Brian have gone and a few more have passed away since we had our reunion. I keep in touch with Eric McFarlane on Facebook. He lives in Nelson, B.C. and I know he gets the newsletter as well. The last time I was in

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 2 ROTHES BALL GROUP A VERY COMMUNITY CHRIST- MAS. The Be Active Life Long BALL group reached a mile- stone this term as it was ten years since it was a trial We are pleased to be able to hold the Christmas Day session run by Debbie at the end of February 2009. Of Lunch and celebration again this year. We are current- those participants, eight are still members! Of course ly working hard to fund-raise. Please look out for our being designed for over 60s there are losses too – all regular events. fondly remembered. Looking back over past pro- Monthly themed supper nights at the Grant Hall grammes the variety of activities talks information and Rothes - our first was on February 14th our “Hot outings is quite amazing, ranging from gold panning Stuff” supper. recently to chocolate sweetie making more in the past, March 14th was our Spanish night, and the Bearded from slides of far -away places to well known place Chef was our guest chef who put on a very nice Span- snaps. We’ve done silk painting, painting, decoupage, ish menu. £10 for two courses patchwork, crochet, knitting, quilling, printing, iris 18th April's theme will be school dinner favourites folding, stamping – and thrown in quizzes, hoi bingo, (you can vote on our face book page) and the 16th beetle (and snowmen) drives, board games and colour- May theme is as yet undecided. ing. We’ve been to Turriff, Banff,Mintlaw, , If you are interested in coming it would be helpful if Grantown, Castle,the reindeer, the Wild- you booked a table, but it is not essential. Children are flife Park (before Hamish was a twinkle in Daddy’s welcome and we can provide takeaways. eye), ridden the train from Boat to , and the Bingo to Keith line too. And we had our shopping Regular family prize bingo at the Social club: our first trips too, so certainly we are active. Every year a few is 28th February then 28th March. Keep your eye out members of the group, attended the Spring BALL, for dates we will be aiming for one a month. where all of the Moray groups got together to sample Sunday 31st March at the Grant Hall Rothes we are new activities and talks and where some ideas for our hosting a "Mothers day" high tea, delicious delicacies, Rothes activities originated. There are now 22 BALL succulent sandwich and scone sensations, choice of groups in Moray. tea's and coffee, colourful cupcakes and other tempt- Rothes marked the 10th birthday with a cake which ing treats. Booking is advisable 11:30 - 3pm was cut by the member with possibly the best attend- The last Christmas lunch was a roaring success with ance record since we started, Margaret Porter, as well guests ranging from 8 months to 93. Everyone gave as pancakes ( it was Shrove Tuesday) as well as music very positive feedback. The food was delicious, and from L. Main. There were also past programmes and the entertainment went down well including Santa's registers available as well as photo albums and a slide visit. The party could have gone on for much longer show of activities over the years.( Photo) with some people not wanting to leave. People that would have otherwise had a lonely and / or miserable Christmas had a bright and cheerful one with lovely company. We could not have done it without all the LINDA’S KEEPFIT. support, goodwill, donations and help from local busi- nesses and people. A huge thank you goes to all the Linda runs a keepfit class on Wednesday evenings in volunteers many of whom are giving up their time the Kirk Hall from 6pm to 7pm. It fairly increases again this year. your stamina! A steady turnout every week is encour- Please support us and help us raise money. If you are aging. There will be no classes the first 2 weeks in eligible for the food bank and would like to join our April due to holidays, but Linda is wondering if there suppers, or high tea, please get in touch. is a demand to keep going over the summer. Cost £3. Look us up on Facebook, A Very Moray Community Christmas, like our page and keep up to date with events. If you wish to offer help or a donation (either finan- cial, raffle prizes, or otherwise) please get in touch. We look forward to Christmas this year, but please don't let it come round too quick! Thank you Stephanie 07760669451

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 3 THE ROTHES TO CRAIGELLACHIE PATH ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

By publishing our requirements on the Public Con- The indoor bowling tournament for the Forsyth Cup tracts Scotland web site we were able to attract a total had 40 Triples competing. After close games and good of seven bids. All the bids were extremely profession- bowling the final was between Alves and Grange. Af- al making the selection process quite difficult for the ter 10 ends the score was 8 – 8, a 3 in the eleventh panel. end enabled Alves to win the trophy. Eventually we agreed that wsp of were best Rothes Indoor club President Peter Burdekin thanked able to meet our demanding specification. This deci- the sponsors of the tournament; Forsyths, McKerron & sion was supported by the Path Steering Group and the Milne, Glen Grant Distillery, Rothes F.C Social Club consultants were appointed at the end of December, and all the triples that supported the competition, the inception meeting being held at the beginning of which boosted the indoor bowling club funds by £650. January. Scott Cameron from McKerron & Milne presented the It is anticipated that their feasibility study will be com- prizes. pleted by early April when there will be a presentation Winners. Mike Anderson, Derek Paterson and Graeme of their findings and recommendation of the most ap- Taylor. Alves propriate route to satisfy our requirements. Runner Up. Susan Watt, Jim Coull and John Watt. A preliminary survey of the proposed routes has re- Grange vealed the presence of Japanese Knot Weed, an inva- Semi Finalist. Ian Robson, Candy Mearns and Sandy sive species, which may influence our choice of route. Robertson. Huntly Due to this discovery sustrans (who are funding us) Angela Dalgarno, Mark Wright and Steven Dalgarno. required that we include an environmental survey as Dufftown. part of the feasibility study. The finals of the Banffshire Indoor Bowling Associa- The study and elimination of Invasive Species is part tion competitions will take place in the Rothes F.C. of a local Initiative further details of which can be Social Club on Sunday 7th April from 12 Noon. found at www.invasivespecies.scot where you can vol- Outdoor bowling will resume at the end of April. unteer to help in several different ways if you are in- terested, You are reminded that meetings of the path steering group are held at 7:00pm on the last Monday of each LINNBURN DAY CENTRE month, at the cottage visitor centre. You are encour- aged to attend and have your say to ensure that our We hope that you have all been enjoying this recent decisions fully reflect the needs of the community. spell of nice weather. It’s lovely to see the flowers growing. Geoff Stanger - Lead Officer - Path Steering Group We are planning to hold a ‘Springtime Tea’ on Thurs- day 11th April from 1.30pm- 3.30pm. Come along and enjoy a cup of tea and a homebake, peruse our sales table and maybe purchase a raffle. ROTHES F.C. We continue to offer our service users a wide choice of activities including gardening, bird watching, craft These are the only remaining scheduled matches after work, games and exercises and occasionally a music Saturday. afternoon. We sometimes visit other day services or 23/03 - Forres v Rothes they visit us. 30/03 - Rothes v Turriff We are grateful to Mrs Longmore for providing our 13/04 - Inverurie Locos v Rothes daily newspaper and to Kevin at the Pharmacy who There are still postponed matches to be played. supplies us with a range of toiletries and gifts that our service users can purchase.

Regards from all at Linnburn Day Centre.

4 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club ROTHES TENNIS CLUB ROTHES GOLF CLUB

We lost two weeks of junior coaching and club-nights The winter coaching for our young Rothes Golfers is due to the snow and frost in early February. The train- nearing an end. This winter for the first time there has ing groups are still well attended and we have recently been four groups of kids receiving a mixture of coach- added a Friday afternoon to the usual Tuesday ses- ing at the following courses: Rothes, Moray and both sions. That did not last long - the requirements of his of the courses. All in all we have 23 of our base club in meant that after just 3 weeks young golfers on winter coaching this year which is the popular sessions came to an end. It was decided to being delivered by professional coaches from the try coaching on Saturday afternoons. Moray area. Andrew Watt, the Club Coach, has been coming Coaching to this standard, for this number of kids through early to deliver taster sessions in the school. would not be possible for our Club without the very During February the children in P1 & P2 had the generous contributions made from Wind farm Fund chance of an introduction to the sport. In March the and Speyside Cooperage. The continued support from promotion moves on to P3 & P4 children. It is hoped both has facilitated a sustainable and very compre- that the youngsters involved will move on to the club hensive programme for the kids to enjoy and develop having enjoyed the four week block. from. Thank you very much to both of these organisa- Some of our members are involved with the Moray tions, from everyone involved with the junior section squads: six Under 8s; six Under 10s. one under 12 and at RGC. two under 15. Several others missed out on selection The Juniors in the picture are showing off their new because they were unavailable on trials’ day. Rothes state of the art winter, windproof and shower proof played host on two Sundays with the Cooper Park and jackets, which again are a direct result of the continued Forres also being used over the six weeks. support from the Wind farm and Speyside Cooperage. The Moray group extends its thanks to the Station Ho- The two trophies on display are the Moray and Nairn tel which has generously agreed to sponsor the squads League and the Gordon Wilken Trophy, both of which for another year. the Rothes Juniors won during the 2018 season, the The works at the club continue apace. Stuart Paul will kids are very much looking forward to the challenge of be decorating the inside while Moycroft Contracting defending both titles in 2019. will be hardcoring the small area between the club- A wee reminder to all that our Monday night junior house and the Bowling Club. A Grant from Land fill sessions will start after the Easter holidays on Monday company EB (Scotland) was awarded, enabling the the 15th Apr at 18.00, finishing around 19.00. work to go ahead. Stuart Dalgarno (joiner) has also been involved in the renovations The club is entering all the Highlands District Leagues: Ladies, Men & Mixed (2); 14 & Under (2), ROTHES LADIES GROUP 12 & Under (2), 10 & Under, 9 & Under and 8 & Un- der. Our December meeting was very special, we held it in At the moment members are eagerly waiting for word the Station Hotel. Twenty four ladies for Christmas from the LTA as to how many Wimbledon Tickets lunch, it was a delicious meal and the company was have come our way. 61 of the Club’s British Tennis even better. For New Year we were off to Inverness Members opted-in to the scheme: many merely to where we enjoyed the pantomime, Jack in the Bean- boost the tickets given to us. Once we know, a ballot stalk, followed by high tea at the Chieftain Hotel. will be held to decide who get each pair. To celebrate Burns Night we were entertained by Myr- Our Fund Raisers for 2019 are sorted out. First up is a tle, Jimmy and Friends, a really cheery evening fol- Quiz Night in the Social Club on Saturday 23rd March. lowed by a more serious meeting in February with Marion Ross and the work carried out by Rothes Com- munity Council, a very interesting talk and discussion which was well attended.

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 5 THE GRANT HALL ROTHES WIND FARM COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUND Here we are three months into the year already. Where does the time go? Attention all Rothes Community Groups Since our last update in December, we are delighted to Financial aid from this fund is available to community report that we are half way there with the refurbish- groups in Rothes. Applications for the next round are ment of the Main Hall toilets. Our thanks go to Stuart now being called for. Dalgarno of SD Joiners and McKerron & Milne for Blank application forms can be obtained from: jobs well done. The work should be completed very Andy Cherry, 79 New Street, Rothes, telephone 07764 soon. 234875, or via email from: The CCTV system is not up and running yet but we [email protected] are not too far off having the work completed. We have been very fortunate in the past 3 months to These must be returned to the treasurer of the fund by have received a substantial sum in donations from (in Friday April 12th. no particular order) Rothes Rovers FC, Mary Burgess, As the Visitor Centre will be open from 1st April, an anonymous donation, Rothes Wind Farm Fund and forms may be dropped in there. Aileen Slessor. Don’t leave it too late – get your application in on time Aileen came to us in April last year with the idea of to avoid disappointment opening up a shop in Seafield Square (the old Post Office). She worked tirelessly for us until Christmas Andy Cherry, Treasurer, and her efforts exceeded even her expectations. Rothes Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund, Thanks must also go to her daughter, Lynne, for let- 79 New Street, Rothes (Tel: 07764 234875) ting us have the premises Rent Free. A very generous E-mail: [email protected] gesture from both ladies. In all, the Donations totalled £6,133. We are extremely Administered by The Rothes Council, a charity regis- grateful to everyone. At the moment our heating bills tered in Scotland. are running out at over £1,000 per month, so this has Registration number SCO30145 been a huge boost. We are also exploring the possibility of starting up a Book Exchange Club to compensate for the severe shortage of local Library Facilities. This is still very much in the early stages of discussion and your opin- THE WEE SHOPPIE ions would be very much appreciated. You can contact us by e-mail: [email protected] or leave a com- Thank you to those who donated such a great variety ment on our Facebook page: Grant Hall Rothes. For of goods and to those who came to buy. Without you those who prefer the more personal touch, you can the Shoppie would not have been the success it has also pop an envelope through our letterbox with your been. The support given was really great, I enjoyed all thoughts. It would be nice to hear from you. the blethers we had. During the summer quite a few We hope your year is treating you well so far. We will holiday-makers called in and took something home give you another update in sunny June. from Rothes. Having been open on Saturdays only over the seven months the sum raised of £2,915 is far beyond what was expected. The Edrington Group generously con- tributed £640 to the fund bringing the total to £3,555. The donated goods left over are being stored in The Old Post Office, . At a later date the Shoppie will open there to sell the goods for the Grant Hall Funds. Aileen

6 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club WORLD’S FIRST MOBILE WHISKY WE NEED YOU DISTILLERY HERALDS NEW ERA IN LIVE LOCAL, WORK LOCAL? GLOBAL PRODUCTION WE NEED YOUR HELP

Local, award-winning business, Forsyths, has made Rothes Fire Station are reaching out to the community the world’s first mobile malt whisky distillery. and local businesses in the bid to RECRUIT more re- The portable 13m x 13m pioneering development is set tained fire fighters following a drop in their crew num- to transform spirit production around the globe – al- bers. The minimum crewing levels for getting the ap- lowing companies the flexibility of being able to pliance turned out is 4. transport their plant and make spirit wherever they choose. Retained Duty System (RDS) Fire-fighters are invalu- The skid-mounted movable distillery - which has a able to their communities, providing a fire and rescue modular design and is bolted together in blocks - is to service on an 'on call' basis. We are currently looking be shipped to Japan in eight shipping containers and for men and women from all backgrounds who can three crates. At maximum capacity it can produce work in a team, attending a range of incidents includ- 400,000 litres of pure alcohol every year. ing fires and road traffic accidents. Most incidents are Two specialists from Forsyths will travel to Japan with over with-in 45 minutes. You will also, from time-to- the mobile unit and spend a couple of weeks on site time, be involved in local community education in the assembling and testing it. area you live in. Richard E Forsyth said: “There are multiple merits of You must be able to respond safely to your preferred this exciting new development. This unit has been as- station within 7 minutes of being alerted, and you will sembled, piped, wired and tested in a controlled envi- be expected to undertake training one evening a week, ronment in our workshops in Buckie. This affords us a and carry out further training on an occasional basis. better control on health and safety during the build but In return, you will receive an annual retaining fee of also significantly reduces our installation costs when up to £2,848, in addition to an hourly rate of up to compared to a traditional overseas build. £13.00 when called out and for performing other role Although the concept of the mobile distillery has exist- related duties. ed within the company for several years, it was Applicants must be 18 or over and in good health. brought from concept to reality by Managing Director We are taking on contracted hour availability Richard E Forsyth, drawing on the expertise gleaned - now whereby someone who only works in Rothes as well as the cutting-edge technology used - in the oil through the day or someone that can give as little as 4 sector. hours a day either in morning or afternoon. Moray-based Forsyths Limited – the company behind Those wishing to apply to become a retained fire fight- the cutting edge innovation – is a world leader in the er can do so by coming along to the Rothes Fire Sta- manufacture of distillation equipment and components tion on a Thursday between 1900-2130, or contact for the oil industry. Watch Manager Andy Cameron by phoning or texting on 07771872285.

Donate Your Unwanted Clothes Donate your unwanted Clothes and help us support injured Fire-fighters by putting your unwanted clothes, pairs of shoes, linen and handbags in the clothes bank located at the front of the Rothes Fire Station.

Firefighters Charity Carwash

Saturday 30th March 1000-1500

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 7

Corey Rizza, fighting fit!

Rothes Bowling Club Triples winners: Scott, with Graeme Taylor, Derek Paterson and Mike Anderson from Alves.

The BALL group, celebrating 10 years New Nursery intake

Rothes Tennis Club

8 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club

Rothes Golf Club Juniors

Scarves made with the new Rothes tartan are now available at the Visitor Centre @ £23 each

New bench on the road up to the Cemetery, a gift from Glenrothes Distillery

Forsyths new mobile whisky distillery

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 9 ROTHES SENIOR CITIZENS GOLDEN GLOVES AND OVER 50S CLUB The Scottish Open Boxing Championships was Our meetings resumed on 9th January with great en- held at Ravenscraig, Motherwell during the weekend tertainment, good music and banter. of the 22/23 March. Hoping to follow in the footsteps It is hard to believe we have just three meetings left in of other Rothes pugilists, like Jack Reid and Megan this session, two in April and one in May followed by Gordon who have both come back with medals from our outing to finish up. We are going for lunch at this tournament, was Corey Rizza. Banff Springs Hotel followed by a visit to Macduff Corey has been a member of the Elgin Boxing club Aquarium and then shopping at the Spotty Bag Shop. since the age of 7 and has already won Novice and Before that we have our Coffee Morning on 20th Intermediate titles to his credit, but boxing at 60Kg April. We look forward to seeing you all there. and at Junior level is a different story. We are pleased to have a few new members and sad to His first bout in the Semi-Finals was against a talented have lost a few through ill health. Forgewood boxer Mark Fitzpatrick. During the If you would like to join us please come along. 3x2minute rounds Corey demonstrated some of the Helen and Jean skills he has been working on during District training by switch hitting and mixing the punches from long to CHRISTMAS LIGHTS close range. He obviously never had it all his own way but even though Fitzpatrick had success of his That is the Christmas lights put away for another year own Rizza was the more dominant boxers and there and the tree dismantled. The guys have been pleased was no surprise when he won the bout on a unanimous with the kind remarks made especially the lights on decision. the tree. The following day he faced Jake Limond the son of The squad this year for the lights comprised of Neil former World Champion Willey Limond in the fi- Mckenzie, George Mckenzie, Graham Borthwick, nals. As soon as the first bell rang Jake caught Corey Ryan Bruce, Craig Gault and his 2 boys Ben and Ad- with a powerful rear hand that would have put most dison, Dakker Geddes, Mark Fraser and Keith Ross. grown men down, however Corey is made of sterner The tree was erected by Jimmy Shand, Steven Shand stuff and soon got his composure together and started and Jimmy Thomson and we are all in agreement to find his range. Mixing it from head to body about how spectacular it looked. Our thanks go to the Limond clearly took the first round and it was time for Estate Factor Peter Graham for allowing us to get a plan B. tree. In the second round Corey came forward with stage Mark Fraser again provided his hiab to erect the lights attacks and long straight punches that landed cleanly meaning the job can be completed quickly and safely. on his opponents face. Now not in control of the bout Many thanks to Gary McLaren at Forsyths for provid- Jake started to hold on and push Coreys head down ing transport, and Doug Stephen at Grants for the lift trying to gain a rest. After winning the second Corey used for putting the lights on the tree and organising knew what he needed to do in the 3rd and went out at the safety barriers from G & A Construction. Without lighting speed throwing straights and uppercuts forc- the help from these companies we would not have a ing his opponent back. This barrage of punches got display. too much for Jake and as he slipped one punch he lift- Also thank you to Amy and Chas at the Seafield for ed Corey off the floor and slammed him onto the can- feeding the lads after the lights were put up. vas. The only effect this had was to get a point de- We are always on the lookout for helpers either to ducted and to drive Corey on throwing more hurtful raise funds or help out with the erection of the lights. punches. Please get in touch with the committee at the cottage if In the end there was no doubt that the rightful winner you can help in any way. on a unanimous decision was Corey Rizza who brings Keith Ross back a gold medal and one step closer to representing his country and wearing a Scotland vest. Once again the Rothes Council salutes the great work Paul Gordon of Keith and the Christmas Lights Group. They do us all proud.

10 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club Rothes Diary May nd 2 May Fund Raising Bingo – Community Christ- mas 2019 4th May Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social March Club 22nd/23rd March Roald Dahl Storybook Drama 6th May Schools Closed May Day Holiday 23rd March Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall –Ladies 11th May Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall – Group Knockando P. School 23rd March Tennis Club Quiz in Rothes FC So- 11th May. Rothes FC Ladies Day - Grant Hall cial Club 16th May Schools closed – In-Service Day 28th March Fund Raising Bingo – Community 16th May Supper Club (Community Christmas) Christmas Grant Hall 29th March Schools Closed – Easter Break 17th May Schools closed – In-Service Day 30th March Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – 18th May Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall – Speyside Air Cadets Christian Aid 30th March Car Wash at Fire Station 18th May Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 30th March RFC with Andy James and end of 25th May Coffee Morning – Rothes Horticultur- Session Awards al Society Plant Sale – and Coffee – 30th/31st March Clocks Forward for Summer Henderson’s Yard and Kirk Hall Time 1 hour. 28th May Fund Raising Bingo - Community 31st March Mothering Sunday High Tea Grant Christmas Hall, Rothes 12 noon -3pm booking advisable

June April 1st June Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social 1st April Visitor Centre opens Club 3rd April No Linda’s KeepFit in Kirk Hall 3rd June Schools closed – Local Holiday 6th April Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social 8th June Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall – Club Tennis Club 10th April No Linda’s KeepFit in Kirk Hall 15th June Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall – 11th April Linnburn Springtime Tea 1:30-3:30 Rothes Kirk 11th April KIDS Easter Bingo, Social Club doors 15th June Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club open 5-30, eyes down 6pm 15th June The Trad Project 7-10pm at the 13th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Grant Hall. Guild 16th June Father’s Day 15th April Schools Re-open 22nd June Coffee morning in the Kirk Hall— 18th April Supper Club (Community Christmas) Car Share Scheme Grant Hall 5-30 till 8pm 28th June Schools Close for Summer Break. 19th April Good Friday Schools Closed, 29th June Coffee Morning in the Kirk Hall – 20th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall –Rothes Golf Club – Ladies Section Senior Citizens

20th July 20th April Tombola in Rothes FC Social Club 6th July Coffee Morning in Rothes FC Social 27th April Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes Club Golf Club – Junior Section 13th July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Stable

and Able

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 11 AFTERMATH 1919/1920 end of the month, though unrest was growing over the length of time it was taking for demobilization. The Although with the Armistice the fighting was official- trouble was that troops were needed for the Army of ly over, casualties still took place for a long time after. Occupation of , so those who had not been The register of those who died was kept open until long in service were going to have to stay on for a 1921. These casualties took place for several reasons. time. Troops were also needed to take on the job of POW’s died of wounds or illness before they could be clearing up the battlefields of abandoned, wrecked repatriated, others died in hospital, or at home, of equipment and recovering the dead, where possible, to wounds received earlier in the war, from which they allow identification followed by decent, respectful never fully recovered. In addition the ‘Flu’ epidemic burial in what were to become the beautifully kept swept the world at that time causing more deaths than cemeteries maintained by the Commonwealth War the war itself. The people and the troops were worn Graves Commission. down and tired so making them less able to fight off February 6th: only 7officers and 109 other ranks left infections. of the unit in Belgium, a larger contingent had been Casualties also came as a result of clearing up the bat- transferred to 4th Seaforth’s who were due to be part of tlefields. Unexploded ordinance littered the area mak- the Occupation Army. ing recovery dangerous and, at the same time, it was March: a further 2 officers and 49 others went home. important to try to recover, identify and bury with dig- April 4th: 4 officers and 47 men still remained. nity the many bodies still lying in the many battle- April 8th: sent to Dunkirk. fields. Tons of unexploded shells, gas canisters etc are April 10th: sailed for England. still being found today throughout France & Flanders April16th: arrived Elgin. This meant that only 3 weeks to be taken away by specialist disposal teams. Visitors short of the 4 years since arriving in France the Moray to the battlefields are warned not to touch or gather Battalion was home having distinguished themselves souvenirs from their visit, nor to attempt to cross into in battle, along with 152brigade of the 51st Highland marked off areas. It is also the case that, as develop- Division, with whom they had served throughout. ment continues, bodies of soldiers are still being un- During this period the German Army had been draw- earthed but thankfully improved DNA testing can be ing back to Germany and their Fleet taken to the Firth used to help try to identify them, allowing a named of Forth, escorted by the Allied Battle Fleet in full ar- grave to replace an unknown one and eventually their ray. The German fleet was then sent to Scapa Flow to name removed from whichever memorial to the miss- await the outcome of the Peace Talks, the bulk of the ing they had originally been recorded on. sailors being sent home. Some names were added to memorials when it was The war did not officially end until the signing of the decided that they had been missing so long that they flawed Versailles Peace Treaty on19 June 1919, but were now assumed to have been killed but no date prior to that, not happy with the demand for the fleet could be assigned accurately. to be handed over to the Allies, the German sailors left at Scapa scuttled their ships. Incidentally, a sight wit- The Moray Seaforth Battalion: nessed by Sandra’s father. The ramifications of the The end of December 1918 saw the demobilization of treaty were to be brought to a head 20 years later and the unit under way, any miners plus those in trades are still with us today. considered vital at home had been sent off and several educational classes cancelled since the instructors had Lest We Forget: Towards the end of 1918 it was been sent home. The battalion was not forgotten by agreed at home that the sacrifice made by the Moray those at home, the Morayshire Comforts Fund sent out men should not be forgotten. Funds were raised to pro- best wishes for Christmas and the New Year together duce a ‘Roll of Honour’ for all those who had served. with 20000 cigarettes, 20kg of best Navy Cut pipe Constables issued every house with forms to gather baccy and a cheque for £100 to buy treats. Routine information and by early 1919 over 7500 had been training had continued after Christmas but Hogmany returned. These were collated along with information and New Years Day of 1919 were holidays with spe- from Military records and local newspaper reports, cial dinners and sports competitions. Letter censorship leading eventually, after acquiring suitable introduc- was ended but, as was to become common, the men tions, to the publication in 1921 of ‘The Morayshire never really told their families about what their experi- Roll of Honour’. Copies were issued to every library ences had really been like. and private copies were also bought by some families January: battalion moved to good billets about 10 and handed down to future generations. During the miles East of Mons, routine training resume until the following years memorials were erected both in the

12 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club conflict areas and at home. Local towns, villages etc 20 Oct: Walter Robert Charles Burgess, 7&9 Sea- wished to acknowledge their losses which represented forths (Pioneers/9th), age 20, Ardleigh, Rothes. In- a significant percentage of their young men. Many terred Rothes Old Cemetery. were to remember the units that fought in a particular area, such as the Seaforth Memorial at Fampoux, 1920: overlooking the slope down to the infamous Rothes: ‘Chemical Works’ at Rouex where in April 1917 the 5 May: John Kellas, 1London Scottish (119/60th), attacked into the fire from 30 machine guns losing all age 27, Drumbain Cottages. Interred Rothes Old 7 officers and 369 out of 420 men. There was another Cemetery.. to the Highland Division above ‘Y’ ravine at Beau- 18 Dec: Robert Grant, 1 & 2 Gordons (76/3rd & mont Hamel which they captured in November 1916. 20/7th), age 29, Spey Street. Menin Gate Memorial All the Scots are remembered by the memorial at Fresnes on the Ypres Salient, with a special one for the pipers at Longueval on the Somme. The memori- als to the missing, those with no known grave or have yet to be found, are among the most impressive and ROTHES AND POPPY sobering to view. These include the Menin Gate, Tyne COLLECTION Cot, Thiepval, Vimy, Arras, Pozieres and a little visit- ed one at La Ferte-sous-Jouarre. The latter covers all The collection boxes out round the area, for the Poppy those missing from the retreat to the Marne and the Collection to mark the 100 years since the end of the battle of the Marne in 1914. Great War, were very successful this year with a total Battlefield tours were organized, originally for fami- of £1134 raised. Very well done everyone. The special lies and widows of those lost so that they could visit poppies were especially well received. The individual the graves, though many, like Sandra’s grandmother, totals will be notified to the box holders . would not go as there was no place to visit. Today these tours still attract many visitors looking for their Of course although the railway carriages armistice, ancestors and tracing their family history as they real- saw the guns fall silent, this was not the end, as the ize how much that conflict affected their families. Treaty was not signed until June 1919 at Versailles. Most find the visit sobering and emotional. It is a fact Many of the returning soldiers were recovering from that even today as development takes place more bod- wounds or in ill health which claimed victims, months ies are still found, but DNA advances have improved or years after the Armistice and Treaty. Spanish flu & the chances of identification but at least the remains TB claimed many. Rothes has a few who will have a are given full recognition and can be interred in a suit- cross placed in memory on the Centenary of their pass- able place with due dignity. ing. The Western Front Association will also continue This is the last of my series of articles on the impact to place crosses on graves in Moray for a while yet of the Great War on our local community which I too. hope has not been boring. The wider picture in Moray can be found reading Derek Bird’s book ‘The Spirit of the Troops is Excel- lent’ covering the history of the 6th (Morayshire) Sea- forth Highlanders (1914-1919), his series of articles in SPEYSIDE STRENGTH AND BALANCE the Northern Scot, and recently, the book ‘Moray’s CLASS War’ by Jill Stewart. This class, which meets on Friday mornings in the Local Casualties: Kirk Hall in term time, is steadily growing. It caters for those in Speyside area. All exercises can be done 1919 seated if you wish but most attempt at least some of Rothes: standing parts. Health and mobility definitely improve. 14 Feb: William Strathdee, RASC (Transport Div), The cost £3, includes a cuppa if you wish. Age 34. Interred Cologne South Cemetery. 3 March: James McGregor Russell Davidson, 6 Camerons (44/15th), age 19, 4 New Street. Interred Brain-Le-Compte Cemetery.

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 13 ROTHES COUNCIL NEWS FROM THE COTTAGE

In February Debi Weir came along to tell the members Even though the Cottage has been closed for the win- what the aims of the Moray School Bank were. After ter lots of work has still been going on. her address the members enjoyed a question and an- The Directors have been working on the Rothes Tartan swer session. Debi was thanked for her informative project and are very pleased to tell you that the scarves session. are now available. They are 100% pure new wool and Andy Cherry had a chat with the Rev Bob Anderson cost £23.00 each. about the ‘Rothes Tommy’ where they agreed that the Pearl has been busy fulfilling printing orders and has best plan was to keep him in the church during the secured a contract for the Aberlour Kirk News maga- year and then for him to be taken out for Remem- zine. Once again she will print the schedules for the brance Service weeks. RHIS flower show which takes place in September Programmes of the Moray Council waste collection and other organisations are making enquiries or find- days were printed by the Rothes Council and distribut- ing their way to the Cottage with their printing jobs ed throughout the town. They are also displayed at the too. Cottage and the notice board. Dog poo bags have also It is hoped that we will have a third Poetry book print- been purchased by the Rothes Council to be distribut- ed up some time this year as they have always proved ed free of charge, see Andy Cherry until the Cottage very popular. opens in April. Our calendars went well again last year but it's very Although Moray Council has decided to keep the toi- much an ongoing process and it's never too early to lets open for this year we can not sit back and do noth- start thinking about the coming year's versions. If you ing. During the months of April and May we will be have any photos of local landmarks that you think looking at a way forward for next year. would look good in a calendar, and you wouldn't mind Rothes Council are hoping to provide a flower barrel sharing them and allowing them to be reproduced, for the nursery pupils who wish to do their bit for the then Pearl would be very pleased to hear from you. towns flower displays. Ideas on where we could get a Photos taken in all seasons are what we need. barrel would be helpful. We will continue to update and change our stock of The Rothes Council, the primary school and the coun- small gifts so it will be worth popping in periodically cillors are looking into providing safer parking at or to see what's available. near the school. This is an issue that comes up now If there is anything in particular that you would like to and then so we are hoping to look at it in a different see stocked in the Cottage then please get in touch and light. let us know. Last year we were very busy with visitors, lots of them At the March meeting Jean Grimshaw, past chair and were from overseas and often looking for links to the vice-chair came along to tell us that she was resigning past in Rothes. If you would like to get involved with from the committee as she and her husband Alan were helping people to do this or you have an interest in the going back to England for family reasons. Jean has area's past history especially relating to its people then given many years of commitment to Rothes, Rothes please let Pearl know. The volunteers do their best to Council, Rothes Gala, Rothes Wind Farm Fund and help but with more people willing to assist and be con- the Speyside Forum. The committee thanked her and tacted there could be the potential to have quite a net- her husband Alan for their dedication to the group over work set up to put people in touch so they can share the years. their findings with each other. We are delighted to see that the seat, asked for origi- The Cottage will be fully opening this year on Monday nally by the senior citizens, has been erected at Manse 1st April. If there is anything that we do that you feel Brae. This gives visitors to the cemetery an opportuni- you would like to be involved with then please get in ty to have a welcome seat on the way up or down. The touch as we would love to hear your ideas and wel- seat was paid for and erected by Glenrothes Distillery come your input. on their ground near the bend. The Rothes Council are delighted with this gift to the town, they will be writ- ing to thank George McKenzie and Glenrothes for this gift and have also thanked The Rev Bob Anderson for acting as liaison person. Thanks Bob.

14 This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club NEWS FROM THE CAR SHARE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Coffee Morning Late last year The John Laing Charitable Trust invited Our annual Coffee morning which was due to take th us to apply to them for financial assistance. I'm very place on 12 January was cancelled, but fortunately it pleased to tell you that they did support us and for- was possible for us to get a new booking. It will now nd warded a cheque for £4,000 towards our ongoing costs be held on Saturday 22 June from 10.00am – 12 noon In January we were visited by David Whitehurst an in the Church Hall Rothes. All are welcome to attend Investment Director who works for John Laing Invest- and we look forward to seeing you. ments Ltd. He is also a Director of the Speyside Bio- Dufftown Ceilidh mass CHP plant near Craigellachie, and it was him We have been invited to hold a raffle at one of the reg- who had put our name forward for assistance and sup- ular Ceilidhs again this year. The date we have been th port. He was kind enough to spend a good couple of given is Thursday 13 June at 7.30pm. This year the hours with Pearl and I and showed a great deal of in- venue will be the Commercial Hotel Dufftown. We are terest in what we do. really looking forward to this as we got such a warm Recently the members of the THISTLEDOWN news welcome and a good evening with great entertainment group from Glenlivet chose to support us. It is really last year. fine to know that local community groups always think to help us if they can. As always - If you live in Speyside/Glenlivet and you Once again I would like to thank Keith for donating have difficulty getting around to certain things because the proceeds of his hard work. The recycled wooden of age, disability or infirmity then we might be able to items that he makes and sells are extremely popular. help. Pick up one of our brochures from your health We are always grateful to our supporters, large and centre, visit our website www.speysideccss.co.uk or small, most especially now when everything is so ex- telephone 01340 831 748 anytime between 9.00am- pensive and everyone has their own projects to fi- 5.00pm (Mon.-Fri.) to get all the information about nance. eligibility for becoming a member.

Volunteers Irene Shaw If you have some spare time, own your own vehicle and you would like to be a volunteer driver with us then we continually offer the opportunity to do so. We don't require a regular commitment from our drivers ROTHES WALKING GROUP but you will need to become a PVG Scheme member so you will need to request a disclosure check from Every Thursday morning a group meet in the vicinity Volunteer Scotland. It's not difficult to do and as we of the post box in Seafield Square at 10 am, with the are a qualifying organisation we have all the forms aim of a walk before the welcome refreshments and a and guidance notes that you will need to do this. There blether. It is designed for those who have not walked is absolutely no cost involved at all. for a while with different lengths and speeds of walk For further information please phone us on 01340 designed for the participants. With several trained lead- 831748, the lines are open 9.00am- 5.00pm (Mon.-Fri) ers, this has been easier to arrange now. Unfortunately Email us at [email protected] or contact we cannot control the weather which seems to conspire us through our website www.speysideccss.co.uk to be nasty on Thursday mornings and so activities We would also welcome new Committee Members were curtailed on a few days. However we did manage and Fund raisers- If you feel that you have something one excursion to Aberlour for a walk through the park to contribute that could support The Scheme to fulfil by the river. For those of you with longer and more its aims then you could join with us and actively con- strenuous walks in view, a few meet on Monday morn- tribute your expertise at operational and/or strategic ings to do so. levels to ensure the smooth running, financial security and longevity of The Scheme. Choose from any of the above contact details to find out more.

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club 15 ROTHES NURSERY

Our Morning children have had a busy term. They have been learning about electricity and how we can all keep safe, and that we use it every day at home and at nursery. Our literacy learning has involved rhyming with fun stories and words that we can use to rhyme with parts of our bodies and our own names.

We have had great fun in the afternoon nurse- ry with our new starts, they have all settled in well and we are all enjoying learning inside and out.

All children visited Keith Kingham’s garden to see the tadpoles.

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter.

This issue sponsored by Hazelwood Kettlebell Club