THE ROTHESIAN
June 2008 Sponsored by D & I Milne Issue No 42
D & I Milne Sponsors It was on February 1st 1950 that my father, Robert Williamson (known as Bob in Rothes) brought our family to the town, when he bought the property at 63/65 High Street. It was then run as a garage workshop, electrical and cycle shop, filling station and taxi business. It had been built around 1939 by a Mr Magnus Bremner, then run by Mr Angus McDonald from whom my dad bought it.
My sister, brother and I attended Rothes School, and I left at the then leaving age of fifteen years to begin work as a clerkess at my father’s business in July 1951. The following year, when we became an ‘Esso’ filling station Dad and I had to go on courses to be ‘taught’ how to serve our customers properly, cleaning their car windscreens and checking the oil and battery levels at the same time. I’d also to help take the coun- try pupils to and from the Rothes School from Knockando and Orton.
It was to be another two years on before my father found the properly trained, time served mechanical engineer he needed, when he met Dougie Milne, who started work at the garage in the summer of 1955.
Dougie says:- I met Robert Williamson at a dance in Inchberry Hall. Bob had taken his bus along with dancers and asked me if I would give him a lift back to Rothes. I had my brother’s car that night which I’d been repairing and was able to oblige. On the way he asked me what my job was, so I told him I was a time served motor mechanic and had just fin- ished my national service with the R.E.M.E(Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers). At that moment, I was on holiday from my job at Bert Davidson’s West End Garage, Elgin. Bob asked me if I would do a job on a Humber Hawk for him, which was easy for me, having trained on Routes Group cars. He then offered me a full time job which I accepted.
In September 1957 Isabela and I were married in Rothes Parish Church. In 1960 the garage expanded to take on the Renault Dealership, acquiring the property now owned by I Fraser and Sons, as a car showroom. A second bus and two mini-buses were bought for school work and other local work, and the garage at Land Street was built to house them. Also a large work- shop was needed and this was built in Bobbies Lane. Moray Council also required that Bob move the Fill- ing Station out of town. Sadly this filling station at Valley View is no longer in use. Unhappily, Bob took a stroke in 1974 and had to retire. All the prop- erties were sold except the original, which Isobel and I continued to run until our retirement in 1996, when it was sold.
You may contact The Rothesian by e-mail, using the following address: [email protected] HAIRDRESSERS MOVE
After 28 years of hairdressing from 33 New Street, Rothes Hairdressers is moving to new premises one door away. The conversion of the old kilt shop is al- most complete, with the official opening date to be advised later. Ena will be taking a back seat in the running due to her accident earlier this year but still intends to be in- volved. Her daughter Karen will be taking over the reins and taking with her a vast clientele, with extra business ideas, including late night opening for men. Karen ESSENTIAL SKILLS? hopes to increase the client book and is open to fresh ideas. GET FREE HELP WITH READING, A new name will be revealed on the opening day and WRITING & NUMBERS it is hoped that everyone will enjoy the new surround- ings. Worried about the new forms at work? Ena and Karen would like to thank everyone who has Finding it difficult to help your children with their helped out since Ena’s accident and in getting the new sums? salon ready.
Want help with reading, writing or numbers?
You can get confidential help in a group or 1 to 1 PCDJ! Choose a time and place that suits you best. We have learners and tutors meeting regularly in Local lad Stephen Andrew Dunn took to the air- Buckie, Keith, Speyside, Elgin, Lossiemouth, waves on Friday the 6th June. Forres and Milne’s area. Stephen, aka Stevo, from Provost Christe Drive, was heard live on Elgin Radio, which is a community Contact one of our Adult Learning Team; based station. Prior to the show, he told fellow DJ's that he was very nervous, but when his 7pm slot ar- Catriona McBain, 01309 672838 (Forres/Lossie) rived, the nerves settled and he sailed through his first [email protected] live broadcast. The station is still in its infancy, only airing earlier this month, but is fast becoming popular with people Doreen Wilson, 01542 834854 (Buckie) throughout the Moray area. It is however only availa- [email protected] ble online, at www.elginradio.co.uk. Stephen expects to be a regular Friday even- Joan Scott, 01542 882222 (Keith & Speyside) ing presenter between 6pm and 8pm. Give the sta- [email protected] tion a try at the above website anytime, day or even- ing!! Louise Dalziel, 01343 829026 (Milne’s) [email protected]
Moira Strathdee 01343 556212 (Elgin) [email protected]
2 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne CHAMPION CHEERLEADERS!
Recently the Rothes Primary School Cheerleading Club organised a fundraiser at Rothes Football Club.
Primary 7 girls, Ellie Ewen and Leah Christie worked Well we are reaching the end of the summer term with hard to mastermind the event, including the choreogra- only a few weeks to go. We have had an eventful few phy and teaching of 2 cheers. weeks as The Rainbows celebrated their 21st Birthday. The amazing sum of £310 was raised on the day in aid We were invited to the Moray party in Lossiemouth, of the Archie Foundation. where the girls enjoyed a magical afternoon; they made wands and decorated magician's capes. A real A big thank you to: magician was there and we had birthday cake and All who attended the football match on the day and for juice. We then held our own little party for the girls their generous donations; who could not manage and we invited the brownies. Club 59 for sponsorship of the t-shirts; Our theme was a sunflower night as every Rainbow in Rothes Football Club for allowing the event to take place and providing refreshments; the UK planted a sunflower to give to someone to cel- Elizabeth Masson for her support leading up to the ebrate the occasion. Brownies & Rainbows all came event and on the day itself. dressed in something yellow or orange and we had yellow food and juice. We are looking forward to the Successful links have now been forged between the end of term and are going bowling to Bowl 2000. Rothes Primary School Cheerleading Club (yet to think of a catchier name) and Rothes Football Club. RFC have asked the girls to become a regular spot for home matches at Mackessack Park, to which the girls are delighted.
LINDA’S KEEP FIT
The summer term has been The last class for this session was held on 25th May. mixed; we have played Classes will resume on Monday 1st September at 6pm outdoors, made cards, enjoyed making sweets and in the Kirk Hall have covered the Safety in the Home Interest badge. We were delighted to go along to the Rothes Fire Sta- tion for a visit; Leading Firefighter Nicol showed us around and gave us an interesting talk on Fire safety in the home and the importance of having batteries in our STORYTIME AT ROTHES LIBRARY smoke alarms and reminding us to check them on a Storytime will close for the session on Monday 30th regular basis. We enjoyed looking around the fire en- June. The next session will start on 25th August at gine and look forward to going back again. We are 2.25pm and lasts for 30 minutes approximately. We preparing for the end of term and are planning a treas- look forward to meeting old and new friends in the age ure hunt and are going bowling for our end of term group 3, to the end of Primary 3. trip.
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 3 ROTHES ROVERS ROTHES BOWLING CLUB
The season is well under way. The P6/7 team are play- The green was opened on Tuesday 22nd April when ing well, but just not getting the results. The P4/5 team Isobel Murray, wife of Bob Murray, club president are playing very well and are in a Cup Final already, threw the first jack to open the green. Afterwards Mrs with the chance of another final. Murray provided a lovely tea for all present. We have also got matches for our primary 1,2,3 team, Hat nights are on Tuesday and Friday evenings. This and even though we don’t have any P3 players, the years open pairs will commence on Saturday 19th July children are enjoying the games against much bigger with the finals on Sunday 27th July. This year the players. sponsors are Speyside Car Sales and Bells. A big thank you to Graeme Christie of Speyside Car The members appreciate the award from the Wind Farm Fund when the money was used to remove the trees at the boundary due to the roots encroaching on to the green.
Innes Shaw Secretary
ROTHES INDOOR BOWLING CLUB
Rothes Indoor Bowling Club finished for the summer with a round robin and the presentation of the prizes to this year's competition winners.
Mollie Scott presented the trophies to:- Singles - Sandy Cameron Runner up -Bert Grant Sales who has sponsored the P4/5 & P6/7 teams with Pairs - John Brian/Bob Murray new strips. Also thank you to Graeme, Andrew Cam- Runners up - Greta Horne/Charlie McPherson eron and Doug Christie who are helping with the Triples – Greta Horne/Charlie McPherson/Kenny Fra- P1,2,3 team. ser At the moment we have on average 27 children train- Runners up – John Brian/Bert Grant/Bob Murray ing on a Friday night from 6.30pm until 8.00pm. If Ladies Hat Night Winner – Anne Smith any primary school age girl or boy wants to try foot- Gents Hat Night Winner – Sandy Cameron ball, they are more than welcome to come along on a Round Robin Winners – Molly Scott/Bob Murray Friday night. The picture shows Liam the p6/7 captain, and Aaron In the Banffshire Indoor Bowling Association final the 4/5 captain, receiving the new kits from Graeme. Innes Shaw, Kenny Fraser and Sandy Cameron won Willie Younie.01340831732. the Triples Trophy when they defeated Huntly Bowl- ing Club who were the hosts for this years competition finals. The club will restart at the end of September in the SENIOR CITIZENS Social Club on Monday and Tuesday evenings when everyone interested in playing bowls is welcome to Our coffee morning on the 26th April realised £600 come along. thanks to all who donated to the stalls and raffle and gave cash donations. Innes Shaw The 2007-2008 sessions finished with our run to Bal- later on the 6th May. The weather was fine. We had lunch at the Glenaden Hotel then a wee while shop- ping, then home tired but having enjoyed the trip. Enjoy your break until October. Jean Allan Secretary
4 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.
The Society would like to thank everyone who came and supported their Annual Plant Sale and coffee morning; we are delighted to say that we raised £440. Our next event will be our Annual Show on Saturday 6th September in the Grant Hall; schedules will be ROTHES UNDER SEIGE available in the shops from early July. Village gardens - judging for the best gardens, best Citizens of Rothes can sleep safely in their beds once hanging baskets & containers will take place during more, after Thursday’s defence of an undisclosed part the end of July and in early August. If you do not wish of the town perimeter. to have your garden/ baskets & containers entered this Cadets from 423 (Speyside) detached flight took part year, please contact Mrs Molly Scott on 831673. in a successful exercise to gain intelligence about the enemy (in the form of Civilian Instructor, Mr Kev All- sop). Members honed their various skills, including camou- GRAMPIAN FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE. flage, manoeuvring and patrolling while tracking down their elusive prey. Their full range of tactical Do you live local to Rothes? knowledge was demonstrated as part of this exercise, Do you fancy a challenge? with lines of communication being established via Do you want to learn new skills? hand-held radios. Ambush sites were chosen and im- Do you want to be part of our team? provised shelters quickly constructed. And get paid. The evening was so “hush-hush”, very few townspeo- ple realized what was happening in their midst! To Rothes Fire Station is the place to answer these ques- make their scenario even more realistic, a “casualty”, tions, we are currently understaffed and have spaces ably played by Sgt Ross Somerville, was evacuated available for Retained Firefighters(male or female) and covering fire, in the form of water pistols and wa- aged 18+. For further details or enquires drop into the ter filled balloons, was laid down. station on a Thursday evening between 7pm - 9.30pm The practice was devised by Warrant Officer Jason or contact Sub Officer Gordon Christie on 01340 Birkett but carried out by cadets, enhancing their lead- 831791 (evenings). ership skills. Drying out afterwards, he enthused “All the cadets enjoyed themselves and finished the night wetter but wiser”. He thanked Civilian Instructors Kev Allsop and Phyllis Ferguson, as well as David Fergu- FLOOD MEETING son snr and jnr for making the evening a resounding success. A Public meeting was held on Friday 11th April in the These are just some of the many activities young peo- Grant Hall, Rothes to gauge public opinion on flood- ple can enjoy through the Air Training Corps. Meet- ing issues in the Moray area. Local MSP and Minister ings are held in the Grant Hall, Rothes from 6.30pm – for the Environment and Rural Affairs, Richard Loch- 9.00pm on Mondays and Thursdays. head, and the Moray flood team were on hand to note Cadets come from the experiences and opinions of the people present. the whole Speyside area and new re- This consultation meeting was organised to gain the cruits between the views of the public before the setting of new legisla- ages of 13 and 18 tion on flooding issues in the Holyrood Parliament. are always wel- come.
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 5 Hi all, A Special Day Out
Great to see 10 yrs on, that the quality is still there in At my local Kirk last Sunday I noticed how few chil- the Rothesian. dren went to Sunday school compared with when I Much water under the bridge in my own walk, I re- was young, nearly seventy years ago!!! cently walked the Speyside Way in 24 hrs and fondly At this time of year we would be getting excited about smiled as I looked over from the Spey to Rothes be- going to the Summer Picnic, for many of us the only fore me, and the many happy memories I have of my time in Craiglynn under the guidance of Jocky Phinn. day out of the year. We passed by and even stopped at Simpsons bakery A special train took us all the way to Lossiemouth, not for a sly cake and a cup of tea. How that place has only the young ones but a lot of grown-ups too; changed a wee bit!! A coffee shop in Rothes, well it’s Rothes was nearly deserted that day. Everyone got a hardly Costa but at least moving forward. goody bag with a sandwich; fancy piece and an apple, This year I celebrate my 40th, and as you will see in there were races and games all day. Some of the men my attached photo I got married!! I have known my would disappear for a while and came back with Esther for 7 yrs as pals, and only recently in the last 11 smiles on their faces, I wonder why? On the way months did we get together as a couple, and we just home we would have a sing-song and arrived back in snowballed in our relationship. We got engaged in Rothes tired but happy. December and then married on 30th March. We had a great day, and the honeymoon in Tunisia was action Speaking about trains I remember every Saturday packed. morning an old fish wife from Lossiemouth used to We live in Glasgow and love the city, and are only a come with a creel on her back, there would always be short drive to the mountains and the west coast, where a crowd waiting on the station platform to buy her fish, she would only be there for half an hour before she caught the next train back to Lossie. New tatties and fresh herring was always a great favourite of my granny.
Happy Memories Jimmy Logan
MULBEN GALLERY
Boharm Hall, Mulben has been registered as a gallery during this year's North East Open Studios. We will be holding a variety of paintings‚ pottery‚ textiles‚ pho- we love climbing and walking the Munro's. Esther is a tography, jewellery‚ stained and fused glass exhibi- clinical psychologist so I’m rather chuffed that she has tions. Demonstrations will take place during the event. sussed me out and still loves me for who I am!! We are committed to encourage and support local art- For my part I teach fitness, write and currently study ists by offering unique and inexpensive work. theology at the West of Scotland University which A cafe will be open to offer refreshments and home- used to be called Paisley but its gone all upmarket!! bakes. Open Saturday 13 September - Sunday 20 Sep- Dave Murray is training to be a minister!! I’m a Bap- tember, weekends 10am - 4pm and weekdays 10am - tist lay preacher, so never tell me that God can't 3pm (closed Monday and Wednesday). change people, nor work in us all if we are willing to Free entry. We look forward to seeing you. follow and be obedient to the calling. Definitely not a career I’d have chosen for me!! I wish you all many blessing for the next 10 years in Rothes and for the Rothesian to flourish. In faith Dave Murray
6 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne
Rothes Diary Please note that the diary displayed in the Rothes Li- brary window, is updated every two weeks and takes in June changes which occur during the time between the Rothe- st 21 June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon sian quarterly editions. Please keep Sandra informed of Friends of The Oaks events and meetings as fundraising works best with no 21st June Rothes FC Social Club Tombola competition! 28th June Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon Please note the new email address for the diary: Church Funds [email protected] 30th June Last Storytime of Session at Rothes Li- If you would like the diary emailed to you, please contact this address. brary
July th 4 July Schools Last day of Session (Close 2.30pm) 5th July Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morning 5th July Forres Games 12th July Coffee Morning 10 to 12noon in Kirk Hall Ladies Golfers th 19 July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall in aid of Rothes Christmas Lights 10 – 12 noon 19th July Tomintoul Highland Games th 19 July Rothes FC Social Club Tombola 24th July Pension Advisory Service at Rothes Medi- cal Centre 1.30pm to 3.30pm For appointment phone 01343 528034 26th July Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon Tennis Club th 12 July Dufftown Highland Games Rachel Paul and Kenny Peacock, who were married in August 2nd August Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morning Elgin on the 10th May 2nd August Aberlour Highland Games 9th August Speyside Leg Club Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 16th August Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12 noon Church Funds 16th August Rothes FC Social Club Tombola 19th August Schools Reopen after summer Break for pupils (staff previous day) 23rd August Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall – in aid of CHAS 25th August Storytime for age 3 to primary 3 New Session in Library 2.45 to 3.15pm 30th August Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12 noon Car Sharing Scheme
September 1st September Keep Fit with Linda resumes in Kirk Hall 6pm 6th September Annual Flower Show in Grant Hall 6th September Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morn- ing 13th September Coffee Morning 10 to 12 noon Kirk Hall - Bowlers 18th September Volunteer Centre Moray at Rothes Library 2.30 to 4pm 20th September Rothes FC Social Club Tombola 27th September Coffee Morning in Kirk Hall 10 to 12noon Church Funds
October 4th October Rothes FC Social Club Coffee Morning 10th October Schools close for Autumn Holiday
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 7 ROTHES GALA 2008 £128 for Gala funds. Well done to all for taking part. The winners:- junior section – wee Arran Ewan with This years Gala was once again sponsored by Morri- 200 points. Ladies – Morag Campbell with 200 points son Construction. The weather was very kind to us and gents – Steve Allan with 300. this year, rain free, through all events despite, or may- be because of, the change in date to coincide with the Speyside Whisky Festival. Once again the businesses Rothes Gala Day and people in Rothes and surrounds were very gener- The Gala Day was opened by Gala Queen Michelle ous towards the Gala and contributed greatly to this Ness and Princess Kelly Duff who stepped in for Bob years success. We took in over £4,000 for the events Strachan of Morrison Construction. Bob sends his staged. Once all deductions for running cost have apologies for his non-appearance, unfortunately he been calculated we will publish a final total. Thanks landed in hospital during the night. He has since go to the representatives of the local groups who once pledged that Morrison Construction will sponsor the Gala for the next three years. For the second year we had a remarkable turnout for the fancy dress with around forty taking part. The winners were chosen by Michelle and Frank Munro of the Elgin Pipe Band. The Pipe Band was once again
well received and enjoyed by all, they also did a turn again joined our small committee to organise the to close the gala later in the day. events and last but by no means least to the band of The Tae Kwon Do demonstration by Sean and Susan willing lads who erected and dismantled the stalls on Cattanach, and the Hipbumpers’ demonstrations went the days they were required. down well with the onlookers and members of the pipe band joining the ladies in their dancing. Rothes Gala Open – By Mike Thomson Local loon, Gary Johnston displayed his skills at barrel Rothes Gala Open was held at Rothes Golf Club on Saturday the 3rd of May with some 65 players taking part in the competition. Mike Thomson, club captain, was delighted with the turnout being the first open of the season and very grateful to Rothes loon, Bob Clark of Riverside Kitchens for sponsorship (hopefully again next year Bob). The winners were:- Junior Section – 1 B McDonald(Dufftown) 2 A Hutcheon 3 K Harris Ladies Section Best Scratch – A Gill(Elgin) Handicap - 1 L Anderson 2 M Low 3 S McDonald (Dufftown) 4 E Fraser(Dufftown) Gents Section - Best Scratch - J Urquhart (Greenkeeper) Handicap Sec 1 – 1 J Brandie(Dufftown) 2 R J Bruce 3 J C Milne(Elgin) Handicap Sec 2 – 1 K McConnachie 2 W Widgery making and the local children rushed to join in the 3 S McKenzie races, both were great spectator events. Handicap Sec 3 - 1 D Watson 2 B Clark 3 S Gil- The main attraction of the event, the sheepdog display lies(Dufftown) from Neil Ross with his dogs, sheep and ducks was The Rothes Gala Day golf chipping competition raised thoroughly enjoyed by all present. This display was
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 8 library and will start at the beginning of the school holidays, so hope to see you joining up for this.
Gala Bingo – By Jim Anderson A Successful Gala Prize Bingo was held in the Grant Hall on Thursday 8th May. There was a very good turnout with many of those attending coming from outside Rothes. A good array of prizes was there to be won and our grateful thanks are extended to all the businesses and individuals who were kind enough to donate the prizes. The star prize was won by Rothes resident Gwen Ingram.
Gala Quiz – By Jim Anderson Tuesday 13th saw the Fun Quiz Night held in the Rothes FC Social Club. Twelve teams entered and sponsored by Glen Grant Distillery. after 8 rounds the worthy winners with 115 points Thanks go to all the stall holders and the tea ladies were a team going under the name of The Awkward Squad. A tie for second place saw the prize go to What Ever after a tie-break question. The consolation prize went to The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, and the Rothesian has no intention to reveal their identity!
Challenge Day The final event of this year’s gala was the Henbog/ Cockinch Challenge. The day started with the junior football staged by Willie Younie and the Rothes Rov- ers. This was followed by the annual Henbog/ Cockinch challenge, won this year by Henbog. There were a number of stalls and carboot sales, with Jim’s who added to the festive occasion. Bingo going strong and the tea ladies keeping us all fed and watered. The Gala Raffle was drawn during the afternoon. The winner of the £100 was C Morgan, Knockando - £50 – I McInnes, 75 High Street and £25 Children’s Activities Session – By Arlene McLean, – Julie Christie, Ben Aigen Way. Rothes Library During May the Library took part in the Rothes Gala Again thanks to all who contributed in any way. We th programme. On Saturday 4 May, Susan Butts (Keith are delighted that we are to be joined on our commit- Area Librarian) and myself held a bookstall at the Ga- tee by a number of new volunteers. They are most th la. We had a good day. On Wednesday 7 May we welcome. So if you have time to spare look out for the held a fun activities afternoon for the children. We had date of the next meeting for next years gala which will a good turnout with 15 children attending. They en- be held in early to mid September. joyed the various activities, with colouring in, word searches, hunt the gang, games on the computers and various competitions. There was also a Gala raffle, which was held at the end of the session. Well done to those who won a prize. The winner of the “Design a CD cover” was Tila Barbarini and the winner of the “Rothes Photo Quiz” was Leah Hughes. They each won a book token – Well done to both. Answers for the photo quiz are available from the Library. Prizes were supplied by the Rothes Gala Committee and by myself.
Just one last thing, I would like to remind the kids that this year the reading challenge is “Team Read”. Details are available from the
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 9 FORT WILLIAM TO RANNOCH, VIA gow, who knew the score and had booked up. LOCH OSSIAN The warden, although from the wrong side of Hadri- by Hugh MacPhee an’s Wall, took pity on our plight and allowed us to kip up on the benches and more importantly let us use When producing a Youth Hostel Association card as the stove on which everyone did their cooking. There proof of identity, I recalled an event of some years ago was no electricity and only basic other facilities. Wa- with humorous implications. ter had to be taken from the loch and a notice in the men’s chemical toilet advised us to pee on the grass. My friend, Doug Milne, and I had on occasions en- One, therefore, took care to uplift the water for domes- joyed hill walks, usually single passage affairs, being tic needs from the most distant area from the toilet. dropped off at one point and collected at the other end Hard though the benches were we slept well and we by our respective ‘better halves’. However, we want- were up with the larks and made a hotch potch from ed to walk from Fort William to Rannoch in north our stores for breakfast and prepared to move out. Ten west Perthshire, a distance of approximately 30 miles. miles to go with the expectation that our wives would This was a two stage walk with an overnight stop at a be waiting where the track joined the road to Rannoch Youth Hostel at Loch Ossian in Inverness-shire, close Station. This track is in fact the Road to the Isles. In by the West Highland railway line about 6 miles north the period pre-WW2, the Scottish Motorcycle Six Day of Rannoch Station. Trials traversed this route in the final day of the event. We duly applied for membership of the Youth Hostel Today’s event is somewhat different and concentrated Association and enjoyed the trek along the Water of around Fort William. Nevis and admired and photographed the Steall water- fall, stopping further on beside a bothy for refresh- On our way over the moor from Loch Ossian we ments as the day was fine and warm. passed the ruin of what was known as the Old Corrour Eventually we crossed a well-worn iron bridge over a Lodge. It would have been a shooting lodge originally sizeable stream at the head of Loch Treig and started and it is said that the new Corrour Lodge was built at the uphill trek to the railway line and so onwards to the east end of Loch Ossian, and the old lodge finished Loch Ossian, Doug, although slightly younger than its days as a fever hospital. It would most certainly be myself, felt this part of the track quite hard and the day isolated for that purpose. When one sees the beauti- was wearing on, so it was to our advantage to keep fully cut and dressed granite blocks with which this going, I remember when raiding my wife’s cupboards, house was built, one cannot help but admire the effort seeing a tin of condensed milk and thinking of a ‘pick that was put into such a building in such a remote me up’, put it in the rucksack, no examination for a place. sell-by date, so two jabs on the tin and over to Doug with instructions to take a ‘good sook’. I enclose a photograph of Doug at the Road to the Isles It wasn’t known then that Doug had a leaking heart turn off, where we were welcomed by the ladies. valve and this was the cause of the tiredness. Happily, he now has a new heart-valve and a pace maker and has abundant energy.
Back to the hill trek, we crossed the railway line and in the distance we saw on a hillock the shape of a building. As we got nearer we could see people watching our approach, not very welcoming were our thoughts, but we were concerned mostly with food and rest. Eventually, a man approached and asked our inten- tions. I explained that we were Youth Hostel mem- bers and hoped to stay the night. His reply was you have not pre-booked and the accommodation is all taken. Alternative, slog on for another 10 miles, where nobody will be waiting for us, no mobile in those days, or get the warden to bend the rules. Although I was born and bred in nearby Rannoch and should have known that Corrour siding on the railway line was less than a mile from the hostel, it did not cross my mind that at the weekends it was the ideal ‘get away from it all’ spot for the rustics from Glas-
10 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne A big big thank you to Dennis and Campari
Since the 3rd May the town of Rothes has been abuzz with talk of the wonderful lunch enjoyed on that day by the pensioners of Rothes. We were wined and dined at Glen Grant Distillery as guests of Campari and then treated to an afternoon of first class entertainment.
Glen Grant was the first dis- tillery in Rothes beginning op- erations in 1840. Since that time many many locals have been part of the Glen Grant workforce. Among those pen- sioners present at the lunch were those whose fathers, grandfathers and even great- grandfathers had worked at the distillery and whose sons, daughters and grandchildren have also carried on the tradi- tion.
Our thanks go to Dennis Malcolm and Campari who were our hosts on the day. Dennis, himself, is a Rothes loon who started work at Glen Grant when he left school. His dad, Davie, also worked there. Dennis has always had a great regard for the town and people of Rothes as was clearly demonstrated when he was instrumental in the restoration of the Glen Grant Victorian Gardens. The gardens are a huge asset to Rothes and play a large part in the economy of the town. Dennis, the people of Rothes appreciate all you have given to the town and people of Rothes and are ex- tremely proud of what you have done.
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 11 ROTHES TENNIS CLUB Ness or Hamish McBain. Finally, we are on the lookout for new blood to The club’s three teams are in the middle of their join us. To this end, we are setting aside court respective campaigns. In Division 1 of the Men’s time on Wednesday afternoons from 1pm to League the club’s future has been assured with 2.30pm, and Sundays from 2pm to 4pm. You will the withdrawal of Tain who were having team be made welcome whether you have played be- difficulties. The Ladies are just about breaking fore or are a complete novice. For further infor- even in Division 2 with 1 win, 3 draws and 2 mation contact Michelle (831026) or Irene defeats. One of the losses came as a result of our (831652) only being able to field one couple for the long journey to play Tain. In the Mixed Doubles, Division 1 survival is down to a battle between ourselves and Elgin B, THE SPEYSIDE COUNCIL and with one draw and a Rothes success in the fixtures between the teams, Rothes has the upper The Speyside Council held its Annual General Meet- hand. ing in Speyside High School on Thursday 15th May. During the Gala, the club held an Under 11 match The meeting was attended by a selection of representa- between the historic two parts of the town, with tives from affiliated organisations and one Moray the Gala shield being the prize for the successful Councillor for the Speyside area. The guest speaker team. A closely contested match ensued but the was Roger Knight, Director of the Spey Fishery Board Henboggers ran out 8 sets to 4 victors over their and Company Secretary of the Spey Fishery Trust Ltd. Cockinch rivals. Gala Queen, Michelle Ness, He gave an extremely interesting talk on the river handed out the awards with the shield being pre- Spey and its tributaries and, in particular, the responsi- sented to winning captain, Corinne McIntosh. The bilities of the Board for the conservation, protection, rest of her side was Dean Johnston, Michael Wat- and enhancement of Atlantic salmon and sea trout son and Kelly Duff. Cockinch was represented by stocks for the river. Following his talk Mr Knight an- Chloe Bitters, Jack Watt, Aaron Ewen, and Jack swered quite a number of questions and entered into Reid. constructive debate with his audience. By the time this issue of the ‘Rothesian’ is out, The appointments for the coming year were: President the courts will have been resurfaced. Our disap- -Jim Anderson (Rothes); Vice-president-Jean Oliver pointment at the failure of the request for a Grant (Dufftown); Convener of the Executive Committee- from the Lottery ‘Awards for All’, did not knock Bill Burgess (Carron); Secretary-Brenda Cooper our resolve, and we kept going with applications (Craigellachie) and Treasurer-Jane Tweedie for assistance to various sources. We were suc- (Craigellachie). The next meeting of the Council is cessful on four counts - with the help of Council- not until 28th August. lor Pearl Paul we received £5000 from Moray Jim Anderson Council; Highlands & Islands Enterprise are giv- ing a %age of the total, coming to about £3900; and the Robertson Trust is providing £5000. Eve- rything fell into place when we learned that the Windfarm Fund was to give us £2000. The club is very grateful to the organizations for helping us out, and our thanks also go to all the individuals who assisted us. Do you have any memories of playing tennis on the old Green Street courts? If so, we would like to hear from you. Some of us who are still with the club can remember playing there in the mid sixties, but there must be many people in the town who have recollections further back than this. Perhaps you recall playing on a surface oth- er than tar. For example were the courts, as they are in some surrounding places, blaes? Whatever your memories please contact Irene Low, Michelle
12 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne ARE YOU…... TOP MARKS!
In need of local affordable housing, Michael Newlands, son of Billy and Ilene, has been for rent or low cost home owner- named the UKs top trainee Firefighter. He joined the ship opportunities? Fire Service in Aberdeen last July, and recently re- Do you, or someone you know, turned from six weeks training and exams at the Inter- have a strong local connection and national Fire Training Centre at Teesside, where he require housing? gained the highest pass marks in the country. Know someone in your area or A father of one, he has enjoyed a varied career path, household, who is likely to need previously having worked as manager at two Aber- housing, now or in the near future? deen swimming pools, and played for both Aberdeen and Inverness Caledonian Thistle football clubs. If the answer is yes to any of the above, then contact: He was presented with the Silver Axe Award for his Kim Siu, Rural Housing Enabler, on 07786 225639 e-mail: [email protected].
THE RURAL HOUSING SERVICE
The Moray Rural Housing Enabler Project is an initia- tive run by the Rural Housing Service. We are national charity which helps rural communities across Scotland to develop practical solutions to local housing prob- lems. We believe that affordable housing is crucial to sustaining and developing our rural communities. This new project has been established to improve af- fordable housing opportunities in rural Moray (Speyside in 2008), by raising awareness of housing options, identifying rural housing needs, and helping achievement at Teesside, and is believed to be the only to find solutions to increase the range of affordable Aberdeen Airport fire service member to have won housing available in the area. this accolade. The project hopes to work with communities, land- owners, housing associations and others to deliver more affordable housing options.
KEY PROJECT OUTCOMES Above, the Hipbumpers were in full swing at the Rothes Gala! Increased capacity of rural communities to participate in identifying and developing solutions to local hous- ing needs. Increased awareness within communities of housing options and solutions. Increased knowledge of the housing needs of remote and rural communities Improved partnership working between communities, housing associations, the Moray Council, Scottish Government and the private sector to deliver new housing options in response to housing needs identi- fied. New affordable housing to rent and buy built in rural Moray. Increased usage of Rural Empty Properties Grant by private sector to provide affordable housing Increased uptake of Rural Home Ownership Grants by households in rural Moray.
The Rural Housing Service is a Scottish Charity, No. SC 031239
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 13 ROTHES COUNCIL FRED STEELE
Keith Ross and his Christmas Lights team are to hold Fred Steele, New Street, Rothes travelled to Perth on two coffee mornings to raise funds for new Christmas 7th May for the presentation of a special medal award- Lights. The dates are the 19th July and the 18th Octo- ed by the Sultan of Brunei to soldiers who served in ber. They are also to receive monies from the wind his country during a period of civil unrest. farm fund to help towards this. The Christmas Lights ‘This medal is awarded to the peacekeeping groups Appeal jars have brought in sufficient monies to pay among the communion countries for distinguished for last years running costs. Thanks to all who con- gallantry sacrifice or loyalty in upholding peninsular tributed to the cause. of Malaysia or Malaysia sovereignty during the period of emergency and confrontation’.
Fred is seen here receiving his medal from a repre- At the April meeting of the council Mr Burns and his team of consultants gave a presentation on the pro- posed changes to the core business of the Combination of Rothes Distillers. After the presentation there was a question and answer session.
The Rothes Council Coffee Morning raised £286 for Council funds. The next Rothes Council Coffee Morning will be held on Saturday 11th October, in the Church Hall. Thanks to all who attended and contrib- uted.
Unfortunately we have had two disappointing results in recent months. A letter was received from Moray Council stating that there will be no bus shelters for sentative of the Sultan of Brunei Rothes due to the fact that the pavements are too nar- Fred, a soldier in the Queens Own Highlanders, was row to facilitate them, plus the disabled access and twice in Brunei between 1962 and 1964, a total of al- negotiable area that is required by law. Despite the most five months, protecting the Sultan during the civ- concerns reported to the Council on many occasions il uprising. on the safety of young cyclists in the town there was a very poor response to the Cycle Trail Questionnaire, 5 replies in all. The response has rendered this project unviable.
THE COTTAGE
The Cottage had successful stalls at the Council coffee morning, on Gala Day and on Challenge Day. We have new T-towels for sale designed on the Rothes connection with the whisky industry. See picture op- posite. We also have copies of the ‘Rose of Rothes’ with pictures. We are to hold a meeting in mid June to formalise the summer rota and to welcome volunteers old and new. If you have time to spare to help us man the visitor centre please pop your name into the Cottage.
14 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne Anvil Gardens ROTHES CHIP SHOP
During maintenance work on Anvil gardens Local Sorry Boys, I have no photos of your shop in the past, man Roy Killen and his Moray Council colleagues but as teenagers, we spent such a lot of time in came upon the following plaque which had been cov- “Dooies”, especially in the colder nights. ered by trees and bushes for many years. Dooie Clerihew
ANVIL GARDENS, ROTHES
THIS GARDEN WAS LAID OUT IN 1993 BY MORAY DISTRICT COUNCIL AS PART OF A SCHEME TO RESITE THE WAR MEMORIAL FROM THE ELGIN/ ORTON FORK JUNCTION. THE SITE WAS FORMERLY OCCUPIED BY THE GRANT FAMILY WHO RAN A BLACKSMITH’S AND CARTWRIGHT’S BUSINESS FROM THE 1890’S ON- WARDS. ALTHOUGH “THE SQUARE” WAS FIRST PLANNED OUT BY THE SEAFIELD ESTATE MORE THAN A CENTURY PRIOR. THE “SMIDDY” WAS DEMOLISHED IN THE EARLY 1980’S.
The gardens on this site were originally created by the
At that time, there were booths to sit in, I think three in all. Mind you, we never sat in to eat, as we didn’t have the money for that luxury. This was more than 50 years ago.
We all thought Dooie was the “Bees Knees”. There was a jukebox installed in the shop - WOW - the first one in Rothes as I remember! We would go there on a cold, quiet night, and say to Dooie, “please put on a Society for the Preservation and Enhancement of record, and we will dance for you”, the dance being Rothes (SPEAR) in the 1980’s. They received one rock’n’roll or jive. His reply was always the same— thousand pounds from the Gala committee to progress ”It’s for you lot to put the money in the jukebox, and the scheme. Anvil gardens were officially opened by for me to make some”. However, Dooie would put on st Lady Cumming OBE, Sourden Brae on the 1 May, the music, and we danced. 1982. A plaque was erected on a boulder at the Spey How he put up with us, and how we had room to Street end of Anvil gardens in memory of the occa- dance I don’t know, but I have very happy memories sion. of 50+ years ago in the Rothes Chip Shop.
Edith Holmes, and sister, Eve Paterson
This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne 15 FORD MODEL T CENTENARY RALLY
2008 marks the centenary of the first Model “T” Ford off the production line. It was not the worlds’ first mass produced car (the Oldsmobile Curved Dash holds this title) but with 15.5 million Model T’s built between 1908 and 1927, it held the title as the worlds most popular car for many years.
To mark the occasion, the Model T Ford Club of Great Britain organised a week’s touring in the Scottish Borders in May, based at St Boswells. We decided to enter JS 2657 – our 1926 Ford “T” tourer – an original 3 owner car which we have owned for 21 years. 100 Model “T”s were entered from as far afield as USA, Poland, Holland, Sweden and Ireland as well as from all over the UK. As the date grew closer, we prepared the car for the long journey south.
Flat out for the Model “T” is 45mph, but with an average running speed of 30mph, we decided to take it easy and split the distance over two days. We set off from Rothes on Saturday 17th May on the journey south, stopping overnight at North Queensferry, near the Forth Road and Rail Bridges.
Next day, 240 miles later, we arrived safely at our destination in St Boswells.
Monday’s run saw us travelling back up North to Edinburgh for a civic reception with the Lord Prov- ost. We had the honour of carrying the grandson of Henry Alexander on a tour of the city. (Henry Al- exander was instrumental in getting a Ford Model “T” to the top of Ben Nevis in 1911!).
Each day saw us touring different areas of the Bor- ders - Peebles, Kelso, Ford, Galashiels and Selkirk to name just a few of the towns visited by the veterans. The daily mileage covered varied from 60 – 120 miles.
On the Friday evening a large marquee was erected in the hotel grounds to accommodate the 240 entrants. We were surprised and delighted to hear that our car had been awarded best in its class at the award ceremony.
The following day we set off for home, stop- ping at Blair Atholl for the night. We arrived back in Rothes on Sunday just after mid-day.
We covered almost 1000 miles in an 82 year old car during the week. It ran faultlessly. We had packed every conceivable spare part imagi- nable, but none were needed. And it never rained for the whole 8 days – a memorable ex- perience in more ways than one!
Raymond MacDonald
16 This issue is sponsored by D & I Milne