Sponsored by Plastics for Building Issue No 43

THE ROTHESIAN

Sept 2008 Sponsored by Plastics for Building Issue No 43

PLASTICS FOR BUILDING Dennis Malcolm, the manager has declared ‘no charge’. The store at Plastics for Building its like Aladdin’s Plastics for Building started trading in Rothes on the 1st Cave, full of products for sale at the right price. Speak- August, 1990, having initially rented Mackenzies Tattie ing of Aladdin, that’s Ian Poole, a maturing loon from Merchants office and store at 84 New Street. This New Dufftown, who has been our mainstay in the store for the last 13 years. His knowledge of the plumbing trade is second to none, and he endeavours to sort out all those little plumbing problems for you. Not bad for an assistant green keeper at the Dufftown Golf Club. The office accounts and relevant computer work are effected by Carol Paterson from Rothiemay, so to please our friends at Customs & Excise and HM Taxes. Carol also assists with Barry’s other business and hob- bies and interests, being Barry Brown Golf and Leisure Holidays taking local golfers, wives and friends to the sunshine courses and beauty spots in Majorca, Costa Del Sol. The Aberlour and Speyside Rotary club has played a large part in Barry and Jennifer’s life since 1992, having been presi- Street position, giving its customers good, easy parking dent in 1998 allows the Speyside and upcountry tradesman, along and again in with many retail customers to save time and costs of 2007/2008. journeys to Elgin and Keith. This well placed trading Concerts, Race position with good stocks, competitive pricing and per- Nights, Casino sonal service, along with the knowledge of the products Nights, Dinner being sold has allowed Plastics for Building to grow Dances and over the last 18 years to a well supported profitable Coffee Morn- business with the emphasis on the customers needs. ings – as well The range of products relate to the experience already as in June gained by its owners before opening the business. Barry 2008 – 25 and Jennifer Brown, business partners, husband and years of Rota- wife who reside in Boharm split their knowledge into ry in Speyside two different ranges of products available. Barry having Dinner with worked as an export manager and a representative for guest speaker Jim McColl of Beechgrove Garden fame. their main supplier Polypipe Building Products Ltd and Yes a lot of money has been raised by great Rotarians, previously Osma Plastics and Wavin Overseas in the friends and businesses in Speyside, the money going Middle East, Africa and Europe specialising in water mostly to local charities etc. supply and drainage, in the areas given as well as many In concluding this report of the people involved both areas throughout the UK. sides of the trade counter at 84 New Street, Rothes – a Jennifer through being in hotel management became big thank you to the people and friends from Rothes involved in bathrooms and shower-rooms with their and all the other villages of Speyside – thank you! relevant range of products needed, so to assist with the From Barry and Jennifer who originate from ‘Bootifull’ enquiries to many excellent retail customers, friends Norfolk, buying a house in Edinvillie in 1988 and mov- and of course the tradesmen who just leave it to Jenny. ing permanently here in 1990; yes we miss our family, Heating is an essential part of the range stocked, along especially the grandchildren but we value our lives and with all the pipes, fittings, insulation, tools that are re- friends in Speyside “our home”. quired to meet the requirements of the many active dis- tilleries in Speyside, in fact the whiff of the amber nec- tar drifting from its immediate neighbour to the rear being Glen Grant, helps to ‘lift the spirit‘. Fortunately,

You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] SPEYSIDE LEG CLUB COMING SOON TO THE SPEYSIDE AREA – 'TRY IT NOW!' The Leg Club held their annual Coffee Morning in Rothes Church Hall on 9th of August 2008. It was Do you fancy getting out of the house for a wee while? well supported and we raised in excess of £500. Alt- Do you fancy trying out new activities in the company hough it was raining heavily friends and members of of other like minded people? Are you feeling isolated? the Leg Club came to enjoy the pancakes so generous- If the answer to the last three questions is yes, then ly donated by committee member Dennis Thomson. 'Try it Now!', a 10 week course could be for you. We would like to thank everyone who helped on the day and donated to the sales table and raffle. 'Try it Now!', - New Opportunities for Women is com- I would like to remind you that we have planned ing to Speyside again. The last course was held in the aTombola in aid of Leg Club on 2nd of October at Grant Hall in Rothes and women from all over Spey- 7.30 in the British Legion in Dufftown. Please come side came together to experience a programme full of along and join in the fun. varied learning activities. Organised by Moray Coun- At the last count we had 180 members (19/08/08). It cil’s Community Learning and Development Service, proves that there are a lot of people needing the help the project is about building confidence, and giving of the Leg Club, and that is doing very important work people the opportunity to experience new learning op- for the community. portunities in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. If you would like advice come along on Tuesdays between 1.30 and 3.30 pm to the Speyside Care Home On the last course, ten women participated in activities in Aberlour. The District Nurses are there to examine your legs and look after them until they are healed. Lastly, the AGM will be on 27th October in the usual venue at Speyside Care Home in Aberlour. If you would like to take part in running our Club please join us. We always need help and like feedback from our members. Anke Grant (Secretary)

APPEAL TO DOG OWNERS

Some dogs still don't know it's against the law, but who enforces it and to whom should we report to if owners are seen not cleaning up after their dogs. Dog dirt on the roads, all the way down Spey Street, I've they might not otherwise have tried. They enjoyed the seen even in front of peoples gates and entrances. learning element, the social aspect and of course bene- Children go this way to school and I am sure parents fited a lot from increased confidence by the end of the would hate it if their children came home in a mess of ten weeks. A crèche is available for those who need dog dirt, or worse picked up some illness from the fae- assistance with childcare. Transport costs can also be ces. A lot of owners walk in front of their dogs there- reimbursed fore not noticing or ignoring if their dog messes. Dogs don't know any better but their owners DO If you would like more details please get in touch with or SHOULD DO. Heather Shaw, Community Learning and Develop- ment Worker on 07800 670 695 Concerned Rothes Resident

2 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building ROTHES LIBRARY NEWS

This summer the reading challenge was “Team Read”. This was a sporting theme to tie in with this years Olympics in Beijing. We had a successful turnout with Autumn is now fast approaching and we have been 45 children joining up. We also held 6 activity morn- back for a few weeks, We have welcomed a few ings, which were well attended. We had colouring & new members and have been busy preparing for the activity sheets, computer access to the “Team Read” Flower Show. The Rainbow entry this year was a Website, quizzes, book discussions and hunt the team colouring-in picture of our mascot Olivia and the read character. A list of prizewinners from “Hunt the Rainbow Cup was won by Kerry Nicol, 2nd - Jenna Team Read Character” is available from the library – Smith, 3rd - Pollyanna Allsop. Our theme for the well done to all those who won a prize! Also a big next few weeks will be "Our World" and we will be “thank you” to Jean Baker (Library Volunteer) on the looking at people from all over the world. days you helped out – it was much appreciated. In September Mairi McCallum from the Volunteer Cen- tre Moray will be back at the library to meet anyone who is interested in volunteering work. She will be able to assist with filling out volunteer registration forms and provide you with all the information you require. If you happen to miss her, just drop into the library for more details and information. Well we have got Storytimes are held every Monday 2.45pm – 3.15pm stuck straight during school term. The stories are for children who are back in after our summer break, we welcomed Han- aged 3 – Primary 3. Our 2 library volunteers Sandra and nah Kelman from Rainbows, Emma Anderson & Jean provide these sessions. I’m sure they would like to Selina Gray. We too were busy getting ready for see some more new faces – you are more than welcome the show. The brownie category this year was a to join in. decorated flower pot. The Annual Challenge Shield Arlene McLean (Library & Information Assistant) was won by Mai Ingram, 2nd - Alana Smith, 3rd - Rothes Library Jordan Harrold. Well done girls!. We are preparing to start our Crime Prevention badge, and are hoping to have a visit from our Community Warden.

SENIOR CITIZENS

Our new sessions start on Wednesday 1st October at 2:30pm in the Church Hall. Old and new members will be welcome. Bring your own cup. Owing to rising costs of entertainment, entry will be £2. 20 We have decided to discontinue the raffle. Hope to see you all on 1st October. Jean Allan

YEARS AGO

Saturday August 6th 1988 was a very special day for Mr James McBain, Green Street, Rothes. It was the fortieth anniversary of Jim starting with Highland Distillers at Glen Rothes Distillery. To mark the occasion he was presented with a greenhouse and various accessories. Mrs Gladys McBain was presented with a bouquet of flowers.

This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building 3 ROTHES BOWLING CLUB SISTER'S SLIMMING SUCCESS

44 pairs competed in the Open Pairs competition with After losing nearly 12 stone in weight between us, the main sponsors being Speyside Car Sales and Bells myself and my 2 sisters from Rothes have been nomi- Whisky. Graeme Christie of Speyside Car Sales pre- nated for Woman of the Year 2008 by our fellow sented the prizes to the winners J Yule and C Feltham members of our Slimming World group in Elgin! from Grantown Bowling Club. The runners up were Myself. Joyce and Tracey attend the group in New D Anderson and B Shaw from Grant Park in Forres. Elgin Hall every Wednesday and have been going to the class for less than 10 months. The members are disappointed that on two occasions Joyce has lost 3stone 1 1/2 lbs, Tracey 4stone 8 1/2 lbs this summer, the five litre tin of petrol for the lawn and myself 4stone 3 lbs, we are all delighted with what mower was stolen from the club. The inconvenience we have achieved so far and to be put forward for the caused by this exceeds the cost as the green keeper has Woman of the Year was an amazing feeling. to wait for another member to obtain petrol before he We have to thank out Slimming World Consultant can mow the green.

ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB

The indoor bowling commenced on Monday 15th Sep- tember in the Rothes FC Social Club. Hat nights are on Mondays at 18.15pm and 19.30pm with bowling on Tuesdays from 18.15pm to 21.00pm. Anyone interested in bowling is welcome.

The club plays in the Upper Banffshire league section which includes Drummuir, Craigellachie, Dufftown and Archiestown and takes part in the Banffshire As- sociation competitions. The Open Triples will com- mence on Saturday 24th January, 2009. Costings are to be obtained to review the indoor carpets. Tracy Johnston and out fellow group members for all At the AGM the following office bearers were elected: the help and support throughout and not forgetting our - friends and family. Also a huge thank you to Sandy Hendry who drives us President - Innes Shaw down to class week on week listening to us moaning Vice President - Bob Murray about the week we have had, thanks Sandy! Secretary - Anne Smith Finally, the title of Woman of the Year for Elgin was Treasurer - Scott Cameron Tracey, she will now go forward to the district finals Match Secretary - Sandy Cameron watch this space...... Thanks again everyone.

Carol-Anne Thomson

4 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building Letters Dear Rothesian,

I always enjoy keeping up with all the Rothes news - First of all – Congratulations on your Tenth Anniver- more difficult now since I have lost my links with mum sary. Your paper is great and helps to keep Rothes and dad both gone - being a Rothes loon meant a lot to folk at home and abroad up to date with what is going my dad, and coming back to his home town bringing us on at home. up in Rothes and enjoying the surroundings meant a lot In the March 2008 issue you showed a photo of an old to us too. I remember with affection Fred Herrick the car SO 25 and asked if anyone remembered Dr. Logie. janitor, who 'adopted' us into his family as we were John Gray does mention Dr. Logie on Page 50 – He neighbours in New Street and we affectionately looked came to Rothes in 1915 and practiced as the only doc- on them as Granny and Granda Herrick. tor till 1932. I remember my mother talking about After all I spent many happy childhood days in Rothes him. He was the doctor when my oldest sister, Marga- - Up the Castle, Up the Doonie, in the playpark and just ret, was sick when I was a baby. One thing I remem- simply playing outside and being taught at Rothes Pri- ber her saying he told her was bananas are not good mary and 1st and 2nd years then going to Elgin Acade- for you unless they are black !! Margaret had been my. I think the kids of today miss out a bit now with quite sick and not able to eat anything. When Dr Lo- all the modern technology!!!! gie said she could have something to eat she wanted I had hoped that someone would have organised a mashed tatties. He said “No – make her some fish school re- soup” Up until she passed away a few years ago she union could not stand fish soup. Dr. Todd succeeded him since we and then the Caithnesses came in 1935 have all I keep in touch with Betty McQueen and I e-mail back passed 50 and forth with Eric McFarlane in Nelson, B.C. and - well few was very interested to see the photo of Lewis’ daugh- years ter Emma in the March issue. ago!!! I also enjoyed the letter from Jimmy Logan about Probably Donald Mackay and Baldy Johnston. You asked for everyone stories of sledging. We lived across the lane from else hoped Teenie Broon’s shoppie. How many of you remember that too getting on a sledge at the top of the brae – riding right and it just down, across High Street and down the lane. I don’t never got think it would be too safe to do that now with the traf- done. fic. Even during the war with the big army trucks we had somebody standing at the foot warning if any trucks were coming. Margaret was sent one day to buy something at the drapers and Mother had given her a purse with a ten pound note in it. She saw some of her friends sleighing down the Castle Brae towards Dunnets and decided to join them. When she got to the shop she had lost the purse. She had to go home without whatever it was she was sent for and a good lecture. Not much later there was a knock at the door and the purse was returned with the money still there. I think it was one of the Wales family that had found it. Keep up the good work. Submitted by Pat Cassidy (Chalmers)

I attach a couple of pictures that I have of Rothes in the old days and a school photo if you wish to use in the Rothesian. I think the pic is about 1966. Just wonder where some of them are now!!!! The High Street has hardly changed and Glen Grant house totally disap- peared! Some changes and some not!!! I look forward to seeing the new Rothesian - not so easy to get now my contact has gone tho!! Regards Alison Nicoll (nee Duff)

This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building 5 Dear Editor Dear Rothesian I write to say how much I enjoyed my first ever reading Reference: your article on sledging in issue no.41. of the Rothesian whilst browsing the web yesterday. In the 1920s we lived in School Terrace, so sledging What a great local community web-page, the first I have on the Dominie’s Brae was at my doorstep. I started seen of its like. off sliding down the brae on a shovel, which meant My reason for browsing the web was to identify if there that I got soaking wet, and homecoming was not very was an anglers association in Rothes as I am a final year pleasant, resulting in a skelpit dock. student with the Open University, studying for a BSc When I got a real sledge, I was allowed to use it on the (Hons) in Environmental Science. I am tasked with creat- Brae – provided I finished my run at the wall of the ing a web page as part of my final studies and I have to Drill Hall. Inevitably, I just had to cross New Street, create a web-page addressing the following question "What impact will the Rothes Flood Alleviation Scheme and finish up in the station yard. It was a dangerous have on migratory fish in the River Spey". and foolhardy thing to do, for there were incidents be- I was searching for a Rothes angling association to see if tween sledges and vehicles. There was a street oil I could speak to someone who had some views on the lamp on the high wall of the schoolhouse garden, fac- flood scheme (but think there is no local anglers club) so ing School Terrace, and when the lamplighter had at- I am now writing to you to see if you can help me in any tended to the lamp, he sometimes sledged down on his way! ladder, to the cheers and laughter of the children! I noted the article in the June 2008 edition which referred Now, almost 80 years later, I have a dim memory of a to the local public hearing re the flood scheme to gauge long sledge (possibly called ‘Thunder’?), which was local opinion and wondered if minutes are publicly avail- crewed by four or five adults, and dragged all the way able that I could have a look at or if there was a member up the Elgin road to the top of the hill beside the water of the local community who would be willing to share tank. My memory fails me, but I must have been the any concerns they had with scheme with me? youngest person with the adults, and I cannot remem- I have been in touch with the Moray Flood Alleviation ber my feelings about the trip – well, it is nearly 80 Team, Royal Haskoning and the Spey Fisheries Board years ago! but would really like to ascertain what local feelings are Yours, and whether the scheme has been welcomed or whether Keith Boardman, Fochabers anglers/fishers think habitats or fish stocks will be affect- ed. PS Regarding Mr Macdonald’s letter, Dr Logie’s I realise this is a long shot but as a former Fochaberian name is in fact mentioned in Rothes Past and Present, and now an Urquhartian, I was hoping maybe you would on page 50. be able to point me in the direction of some local information. I would be very grateful for your help but should I have asked inappropriately, or you are unable to help, thanks for reading this in the first place :) Kind regards Tracey MacPherson [email protected]

I recently purchased an old poster from the late Sam- my Fraser's collection which was auctioned off in the Elgin Mart. One of the ads was for "Cars For Hire" in Rothes- see attached pic. It is dated 1924. Helen Mackie informed me that Magnus Bremner of Bremner Bros, motor & cycle engineers started in business in 1911 and operated from 63 High Street. These are the same premises Dougie and Isobel Milne ran their garage business from, as reported in your last edition. It is a Ford model "T" Tourer in the advert and a Tri- umph motorcycle. Raymond MacDonald.

6 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building Rothes Diary 19th December Schools close for Christmas Break th Please note that the diary displayed in the Rothes 20 December Rothes FC Social Club Tombola Library window, is updated every two weeks and January 2009 takes in changes which occur during the time be- th tween the Rothesian quarterly editions, especially 5 January Schools Re-open after Christmas in the run up to the Festive Season.. Please keep Break Sandra informed of events and meetings as fundraising works best with no competition! Please note the special email address for the diary: [email protected] If you would like the diary emailed to you, please contact this address. A BIG THANK YOU TO SIR JOHN

2008 Sir John Herbecq an avid reader of the ‘Rothesian’ October and a frequent visitor to Rothes popped into the Cot- 4th October Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morning tage in July to present us with a copy of ‘BRAEFOOT 10th October Schools close for Autumn Holiday SKETCHES’. The sketches were written by J Mackin- 11th October Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – Rothes non and originally serialised in the Northern Scot. Council th They were later issued in a volume which was ex- 14 October Church Guild resumes with Rev Bob tremely limited and soon out of print. The version Anderson Kirk Hall 7.15pm th given to us by Sir John was printed in June, 1908 and 18 October Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to returned to Rothes exactly 100 years later. 12noon – Christmas Lights 18th October Rothes FC Social Club Tombola Incidentally the cost of the book was one shilling (1/-). 21st October Ladies Group meeting Kirk Hall on We were delighted to receive our copy of this relative- Garden decorative ‘whirlies’ ly rare book. 23rd October Pension Advisory Service at Rothes Thank you Sir John. Medical Centre 1.30pm to 3.30pm For appointment phone 01343 528034 25th October Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon Air Cadets 26th October Clocks back one hour for Winter 27th October Schools Re-open after Autumn Holiday 31st October Halloween

November 1st November Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morning 5th November ‘Remembrance Planters’ in place beside the War Memorial 8th November Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon Ladies Golfers 9th November Remembrance Sunday 11th November Armistice Day - At the Eleventh hour of the 11th month in 1918 WW1 ended 14th November Children in Need Night 15th November Coffee Morning 10 to 12noon in Kirk Hall Church Funds 15th November Rothes FC Social Club Tombola 17th/18th November Schools Closed – In-Service Days 18th November Ladies Group meeting Kirk Hall t.b.c 22nd November Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12 noon – Senior Citizens 29th November Speyside High School SVS Christ- mas Fair 10am to 12 noon at High School 29th November Coffee Morning 10 to 12 noon Kirk Hall Rothes Primary School Association. 30th November St Andrews Day

December 6th December Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morn- ing

This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building 7 ROTHES COMMUNITY LTD (Play Trail)

After a number of meetings during the summer months the directors have agreed to investigate selling on the play trail site . This was decided for a number of reasons including:-

PRACTICE RUN • Lack of interest in the town 4 cadets from 423 (Speyside) detached flight successfully • Our members are no longer fit to maintain the completed a practice expedition towards their Duke of site and no new interest has been expressed Edinburgh’s bronze award scheme during the last week- • Children’s play patterns have changed end in August. • Changes to the working practices at the Com- The 13 km adventure took place in the Lossiemouth/ bination of Rothes Distillers will mean in- Spey Bay area. Starting from Arthur’s Bridge on the out- creased traffic usage in the road adjoining the skirts of Lossiemouth, they hiked, with all their provi- site sions and camping equipment, to their overnight camp in Spey Bay. The following day they returned via the Spey- • There is a severe shortage of industrial oppor- side Way to Fochabers. The trip tested their map-reading tunities for businesses in Speyside and Rothes. skills using compass bearings and maps. Luckily, they A number of local business have made prelim- were blessed with fine weather. inary approaches about the future use of the They were guided by Bob Dumbell, a qualified Mountain site Leader who works closely with Moray Council and the • It is in the community interest to sell on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and Flying Officer land for business purposes thus safeguarding Sarah Birkett. the economic future of the town The qualifying expedition takes place in the Glenlivet/ Tomintoul area on the weekend of 20/21 September. Although a great deal of work has gone into the site A bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s programme has 4 sec- we have been plagued by problems with drainage tions;-volunteering, physical, skills and expedition. (after the floods of 2002) and rotting trees. The drain- Young people need to be at least 14 years old to start a age problem was dealt with by a joint venture with bronze programme and must do a minimum of 3 months Moray Council. The trees have been costly to main- activity for each section also plan, train for and do a 2 tain, costing us over £5,000 for the hire of a tree sur- day (1 night) expedition. An extra 3 months must be geon to ensure all safety measures are in place. This spent on one of the volunteering, physical or skills sec- has also been done. tions. Civilian Instructor, Phyllis Ferguson, hopes more cadets from Speyside will take up the Duke of Edinburgh’s At this point we have applied for planning change of award scheme. She said “In the New Year, I hope to get use from recreational to industrial as advised and our another 7 or 8 started on bronze. Hopefully, the 4 who solicitor is investigating legal issues which may be are doing bronze this year will go on to do silver thereaf- pertinent. ter”. Young people can enjoy many activities through the Air Any update will be reported in future ‘Rothesians’. Training Corps. Meetings are held in the Grant Hall, Rothes from 6.30pm – ROTHES GALA 9.00pm on Mondays The Rothes Council Gala Group will be holding a and Thurs- meeting on Monday the 29th September at 7pm in the days. Ca- Cottage. All past and new members will be welcome. dets come from the whole Speyside area and new re- cruits between the ages of 13 and 18 are always welcome.

8 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building ROTHES WIND FARM COMMUNITY ROTHES FLOWER SHOW BENEFIT FUND We held our 25th Annual Flower Show on Saturday This year’s payout were distributed to the following:- 6th September, entries came from far and wide and we Rothes Tennis Club - £2,000 for help in resurfacing were pleased to welcome some new competitors from the courts the village.We were delighted to receive entries from Rothes Senior Citizens - £300 for transport costs for Rothes Primary School, Rothes Nursery, Rothes Rain- summer outing bows & Brownies & Linnburn Day Care Centre. En- Rothes Golf Club - £900 for equipment and training tries were slightly down on last year, but with the for junior golfers weather being kinder we had raised entries in the fruit Rothes Rovers - £1,000 for the purchase of rainwear & vegetable categories. The Society would like to Rothes Outdoor Bowling Club - £400 for hedge trim- thank all who came and helped with the staging of the ming and tree surgery whole event, we wouldn't have managed without you. Air Training Corp - £145 for purchase of compasses Moray Burial Ground Research Group - £200 for liter- Trophies and shields were presented by Mr Denis ature on Dundurcas and Macallan cemeteries Malcolm from Glen Grant Distillery. The following Rothes Council - £2,700 for replacement Christmas prizes were awarded. (Rothes unless stated.) Lights Rothes Council - £175 for hanging baskets Forsyth Shield- D Asher (Grantown), Eagle Star Cup - W Rothes Community Ltd - £1,200 for tree surgery at Clarihew (Knockando), Jack Daniel Quaich - C Devine play trail (Dufftown), Famous Grouse Trophy - D Asher, RFC Tro- Rothes Community Ltd - £500 for structural changes phy - Rosie Gordon, Speyside Video Shield - J McPherson ( Elgin), John Newlands Shield - Anke Grant (Dufftown), to facilitate the Town council table and chairs Ian Fraser Cup - W Clarihew, D & I Milne Cup - A.J. Rugg Rothes Community Ltd - £300 for setting up a website (Dufftown), D.A.Cruikshank Cup - A.J. Rugg , Rothes Pharmacy Cup - D. Cruikshank, Chambers Cup - Lesley As most of this years monies have been disbursed Nicol, E & B Johnston Trophy - Hannah Kelman, A Ward- there will be no applications called for in October. law Trophy - Lesley Nicol, RHIS Trophy - Rachel Kelman, The next round of applications will be in February/ Blain Trophy - Corey Rizza, A Cruikshank Trophy - Lesley March Nicol, Albyn Designs Trophy - Allanah Allsop, D Bremner Shield - Sam Christie, Brownie Shield - Mia Ingram, Rain- bow Trophy - Kerry Nicol, Bob Johnston Shield - Allanah Allsop, Ben Aigen Hotel Shield - J. McDonald (Dufftown), ROTHES COUNCIL A & T Smith Rosebowl - J McDonald, Charlotte Smith Tro- phy - I Shaw, A Henderson Shield - Grant Chalmers, David Henderson Cup - D Asher, David Scott Scroll- S. Paul, John The monthly Rothes council meetings resumed on the Milne Cup - D Asher, McDonald Trophy - D Asher & G first Monday of September. Gordon (Dufftown), Gordon Scott Cup - S Paul, Jim Bart- The greatest concern to members and the community lett Tray - Mrs Fitch (Lhanbryde), Cyril Simpson Cup - N was anti social behaviour and petty crime in the town. McPherson & E Duncan, Pearl Paul Trophy - N. McPher- Unfortunately the police were unable to attend on the son, Leslie Geddes Trophy - M Scott, Dunbar-Nasmith Tray night. - N McPherson, J & E Shepherd Goblet- G Duncan Once again the members had good feedback on the (Aberlour), Chivas Bros Shield - G. Duncan, Janet Burns floral displays and hanging baskets. They expressed Cup - C Devine, RHIS Cup - K. Bartlett, E Shepherd, A their gratitude to all who had helped with them. The Howie & C Devine, John & Betty Tilley Cup - C Devine, Rothes Vegatable Box, Gold - D Asher, Silver - A Rugg, Christmas Lights group wish to thank all who helped Bronze - S Paul, Rotehs Top Vase, Gold - W Clarihew, Sil- with and attended their July Coffee Morning. Their th ver - A.J.Rugg, McKenzie Challenge Cup - Best Kept Gar- next Coffee Morning will be on the 18 October. den - Mr & Mrs Gauld, Land Street , RHIS Cup - Runner- Rothes Council Coffee Morning will be held the week up Best Garden - Mr E McWilliam, Provost Christie Drive, before on the 11th October. Rothes Pharmacy Cup - Best Vegetable Garden - Mr A Anyone wishing to come along to the monthly meet- Rugg, Burnside Street, Rotary Club Shield & The Andy & ing on the first Monday of each month will be made Mary Sherret Shield - Best Hanging Basket & Best Group most welcome. of containers - Mr & Mrs Laing, Caperdonich Cottages.

This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building 9 1918 FEEDBACK THE HIP BUMPERS

The article in the Spring edition of the Rothesian on The Hip Bumpers wish to express their sincere thanks the casualties experienced by Rothes/ Knockando in to everyone who took the time to vote for them in the 1918 has prompted an interesting feedback. run-up to the National Lottery Big 7 Awards. This resulted in them reaching the last 3 in the Community/ One of the casualties mentioned was Joseph Dustan Voluntary Section. On the way through they per- who died of wounds on 28 March 1918. These had formed at many venues including RAF Kinloss, Buck- been received during the German assault of March. He ie LIfeboat Station, Elgin Fire Station and several was born in Rothes January 1894 the son of Joseph & times in the St Giles Centre Elgin. There were also Constance Dustan, 3 Land Street, became a clerk in a appearances on Grampian TV and the Richard & Judy local distillery and joined up on 6 October 1916. show on Channel 4. In addition to all that they took part in the Edinburgh Festival Cavalcade on Sun- After the article was printed Glen received a call and day 3rd August where they received rapturous ap- letter from his nephew, also Joseph, who now lives in Leeds. He was pleased to get a whole lot of information on his Uncle that he had not known about before. The Dustan name is not common and it was found that only 6 soldiers with the surname Dustan were killed during the Great War, 4 from Scotland. Investigation and queries found that one of the names William Dustan, recorded on the Gartly War Memorial, was a cousin of the Joseph Dustan on our War Memorial. Joseph has also provided a copy of a photo of his Un- cle, taken prior to his joining. This has been placed in the memorial book in the church beside the certificate.

Joseph also provided the information that Dustan was a very small clan. He has cuttings from the P&J stating that the name was first known in the Twelfth century and only in Speyside, mostly concentrated around plause from the huge crowds gathered along Princess Aberlour and Rothes. Street. The big night came when the group was repre- sented at the London Studios for the live broadcast of the Awards Ceremony on Saturday 30th August. Four members were in the VIP Section for the Awards and a further 9 (members/supporters) were fortunate enough to get tickets for seats in the audience section. A grand night was had by all although tinged with a little sadness at not picking up the winner's trophy. However we acquitted ourselves well and can be proud of the achievement of being the only Scottish group to get through to the finals. After all the excite- ment of the past few months it is now back to normal and the new season's sessions start on Monday 15th September (and every Monday thereafter) in the Long- more Hall Keith at 7.30pm when anyone interested in joining will receive a warm welcome.

10 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building DIGGERS MOVE IN TO START £21m base will serve all stages of work in Rothes over the ROTHES FLOOD DEFENCE WORKS next two years.

It’s been six years since flooding last brought major disruption to the residents of Rothes, however the threat of future flooding could soon be a thing of the past now that work has finally started on a flood defence system for Rothes. Since 2002, The Moray Council and their partners have worked hard to deliver a Flood Alleviation Scheme that will avoid a repeat of the multi million pound clean up operation as well as the heartache that the flooding brought to residents and business owners. Kicking the scheme off at its official launch in July, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Rural Af- fairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead joined with Moray Council convenor George McIntyre and members and officials from The Moray Council and the construction team in raising a toast at Glen Grant Distillery. At the ceremony, Richard Lochhead, who is also the Mark MacLeman, the Site Agent for Morrison Con- local MSP praised the partnership that has brought the struction said, “Residents are very welcome at any time to come into the site office and see the display boards or discuss issues relating to the scheme.” Alter- natively Mark can be contacted at the site office on 01340 832040 “We will also be knocking on peoples doors to let them know in advance when we are working beside their house and if we need to carry out work that might inconvenience them for a short time” he added. Local councillor Pearl Paul added, “hopefully residents will use the site office as a first point of contact if they have any concerns about how the works might affect them.” Councillor Paul also praised the efforts of the flood team in attending regular meetings and keeping resi- Scottish Government, The Moray Council and the lo- dents up to date with what was happening. cal community together in bringing about action for Dave Gowans, The Council’s project director for flood the people of Rothes. Moray Council convenor George alleviation schemes said that he hoped to continue to McIntyre added that The Moray Council was also count on the full support of the people of Rothes, and committed to delivering similar flood schemes to other whilst the works will undoubtedly cause some disrup- communities within Moray. tion and inconvenience, he hoped that people would The flood scheme, costing £21m overall is split into also see the benefits in carrying out the work. separate stages that will eventually see works carried Stan Mathieson out over two years to the Back Burn, the Black Burn Project Manager for The Rothes Flood Scheme and the Burn of Rothes. Bob Strachan, the Scheme Manager said, “The first stage of the defence works is being carried out in and around the Back Burn from the Glen Grant Distillery Access Bridge working down stream to the A941 Bridge.” “One of the biggest challenges the construction team will face is the environmental constraints of working within the various burns” He added, “Between now and Christmas, residents will also see some key construction activity to the ex- isting drainage around Land Street and tree felling at various locations around the town” A site office has been set up in Station Road and this

This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building 11 THE COTTAGE ROTHES CANADIAN TOLD “PORKYS”

The number of visitors this year has been well Many locals will have noticed, as you walk past the ceme- down on past years, most markedly in visitors from tery, the three war graves at the roadside. These are Cana- elsewhere in the United Kingdom. We have been dians from the Forestry & Construction Corps, stationed at open four days per week and once again have been Orton. successful in getting volunteers to help us through They have been lovingly cared for over the years by local the summer. ladies who ensure that flowers and crosses are place there Once again we have created three calendars for sale in time for Armistice Day. Full details of their family and and photo cards will also be on sale soon. military records have been researched through Canadian This years calendars are – 1 Speyside/Glenlivet and records and are now in the memorial book in the church, 2 Rothes calendars as pictured below. together with details of the other Rothes Canadians. Less well known perhaps is the fact that there is another member of the Canadian Forces buried in the old cemetery. He is in the Symmers family grave of his mother. No mention is made on the stone of his Great War connection. He is Private Peter McDonald (442841) 54th (British Co- lumbia Regt.), Canadian Infantry. Investigations to prepare the Memorial Book have led to interesting discrepancies between the information supplied from local records and the information supplied to the Ca- nadian Forces when Peter joined up. Canadian records are superb as they have been collated during 1992/93 and were not destroyed during the Second World War, unlike many of the British ones. It would appear that he deliberately altered his date of birth and his next of kin in order to appear younger, so that he would qualify for overseas service. He joined up in 1915 and at that time anyone over the age of 40 was not eligible CHRISTMAS CARDS - PICK YOUR OWN for overseas service. What were his ‘economical truths’: Would you like Christmas Cards made of a house, Local records state that he was born in Rothes on 4 Janu- building, street or place of your choice to send on ary 1875, the son of Peter McDonald & Elsie Symmers, to friends and family? Burnside Street, Rothes. This would have made him 40 Do you have special memories you wish to share? years 7 months old when he joined up in 1915. If you do please let us know and we will get the In Canada, he joined up on 9 August 1915 at Camp photos for you and the cards made up as requested. Vernon, British Columbia, listing his Please pop your requests into the Cottage or e-mail date of birth as 6 January 1880, (Medical Officer quoting Pearl Paul on [email protected] or e-mail apparent age 35 on 19 August), place of birth as Ross-shire The Cottage at [email protected] and next of kin Mrs Ellen McDonald, 57 Port Dundas Road, Glasgow, (relation not known but not his wife as his attestation certificate states unmarried – unless another secret). He further states 10yrs 6mth. previous service in the Royal Navy, occupation machinist, and religion as Presbyterian. GRADUATION Further details state he was 5’9” tall, had black hair, black eyes and a dark complexion with a 39” chest and 3 vac- cination marks on his left arm. He was passed fit for overseas service on 28 Aug. 1915. He was sent to France in Tara French graduated 1916 following training. I have not as yet had time to ac- from Glasgow Univer- cess his military service record. sity with a First Class All records agree that he died on 13 March 1918, of MA(Hons) Degree in wounds received at Vimy ridge, at the Canadian Hospital, Psychology. Tara at- Kent. The family requested the body be buried at home, tended Speyside High not in the Military Cemetery attached to the hospital, and it School. appears did not take up the offer of a War Graves Head- stone beside the family plot.

12 This issue sponsored by Plastics for Building