Deeside Issue 16

gazetteSuccessfully introducing local people to local businesses

magazine

Shop locally this Christmas...

Support our local shops if only for

one gift!

Issue 16Mid Nov - Mid Dec 2012 Deeside EditionFree Publication

2 www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 - 318561 email : [email protected]

Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication.

Ad-hoc contributions from :Sarah Davey - Debbie Singh-Bhatti - Carol Brown - Lee Bestall - Bill KirtonAdvertising Sales :Sue Simpson : 01224 - 318561

Distribution - thanks to : Sue - Liz - Valerie - Lewis - Stuart - Ross - Allie - Ben

Distributor wanted for Corse Road Area (Banchory)Torphins - whole of village!

Deeside gazettethru the door :now exclusive to Banchory & Drumoakdeadline :Dec 2012-Jan 2013 mag6 December 2012contact : Sue Simpsontel : 01224 - 318561mob : 07813 964 875email : [email protected] : thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

A note from Sue…I always feel that November is the lull before the storm! It is quite a quiet month. Possibly even a preparation month? Well I do hope your preparations for Christmas are well underway? It is so easy these days to shop online or at big retail outlets but do consider the hidden gems of the local shops on your doorstep. This is where you will find that unique, quirky gift that is possibly eluding you.

There are of course lots of concerts and craft fairs going on around Deeside and some great events happening within Aberdeen too. Don’t forget the Enchanted Castle at Crathes it should be truly spectacular.

December brings party time. Office night’s out, end of term parties, teenage balls, I have a tidy little article about that all important little black dress (lbd) I now need to go and buy mine. Riah Hair and Beauty have a fantastic offer to help you pamper yourself over the winter and I have to recommend a full body MOT with the Biomed Clinic. For those of you with any doubts about how healthy you possibly are then go and get yourself checked out. It’s painless and the results are instant! I will tell you more about that next month. Banchory Chiropractic now has longer opening times and a new member of staff.

For those that like their art, there is an amazing opportunity at the beginning of December to view a “private collection” of art at St James’s Place in Aberdeen, see page 15 for full details. There are two events one to view and one to buy.

As always I hope you will find this issue useful and helpful so do go and grab that cuppa and read on. Until the next time.

gazetteWin a Body MOT with Biomedical Clinic see pg 3

magazine

Shop locally this Christmas...Support our local shops if only for one gift!

Issue 16Mid Nov - Mid Dec 2012 Deeside EditionFree Publication

3please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

Banchory Singers Christmas Concert December will shortly be upon us and so it is time to get in the spirit of the season and begin celebrating. What better way to start the merriment than by going to Banchory Singers Christmas Concert on December 8th at Banchory Town Hall. With a mix of traditional and contemporary carols there is sure to be something in the programme to suit everyone’s taste.

This local mixed voice choir now numbers over 70 voices. Under the talented leadership of Tara Leiper, the choir can skilfully switch from a fun number such as the 1934 classic Winter Wonderland to a wonderful festive choral piece. Included in the programme will be a chance for the audience themselves to warble some favourite carols!! After the performance mingle with the choir and enjoy some celebratory refreshments.

Tickets inclusive of refreshments (£8 adults, £5 concession and bargain Family ticket 2x adults plus children £17) for the 3pm matinee or 7pm evening may be purchased from Banchory Library, but hurry they are going fast.

March HareCraft & Vintage

MarketBoys Brigade HQ, Crimon Place

Aberdeen AB10 1RX

11am-4pmFree Entry

24 November15 December

300+ attendance at the Launch of the March Hare Market

[email protected]/March Hare Market


Let’s Ditch Secret SantaSecret Santa is a trial by ordeal - really! It’s one more gift to buy; one we may resent buying, and let’s face it, most Secret Santa gifts are pretty naff. So what could replace Secret Santa? We wracked our brains and came up with a few ideas.

A Giving Tree: People bring in non-perishable goods and place them under a tree. The goods are then made up into hampers and taken down to a local homeless shelter or church, where they can be distributed. It’s a win-win situation because no-one has to take home a garden gnome, or floral bubble bath they’ll never use, they’re giving to those in need instead.

Charity Swap: People bring in one really nice item of clothing and a pound coin. In return they receive a numbered ticket. The clothing is donated to a charity shop and the pound is put into a fund. Finally a ticket is drawn and someone wins the fund. If the workplace (and therefore the fund) is large, it can be divided into smaller prizes. So there’s a chance of winning some cash and a charity benefits. What’s not to like?

Quiz-Pick: Everyone brings in something - could be home made goodies or an unwanted DVD from the previous year. None of the gifts are wrapped, but they’re all placed on display. Everyone picks a numbered ticket out of a hat, and in order they get to answer a Christmas quiz question e.g. name all of Santa’s reindeer. If they get the question right, they get to choose a gift: if not, they have to wait until their turn comes round again. It’s fun and inexpensive, though of course there’s always the chance you’ll end up with that garden gnome!

By Sarah Davey

Crossword CluesAcross 1 Footwear (6) 4 Panorama (5) 8 Oarsman (5) 9 26 in the alphabet (7) 10 Plodded heavily (7) 11 Complacent (4) 12 Consume (3) 14 Leg joint (4) 15 Flower (4) 18 Couple (3) 21 Appendage (4) 23 Wood particles (7) 25 Type of lottery (7) 26 Venerate (5) 27 Artist’s stand (5) 28 Conversational digressions (6)

Down 1 Emphasise (6) 2 Infant (7) 3 How fast a plane travels (8) 4 Ballot (4) 5 Water vapour (5) 6 Appoint (6) 7 Knife (5) 13 Fishing vessels (8) 16 Impaired growth (7) 17 Dress (6) 19 Acting award (5) 20 Theatre seats (6) 22 Childhood illness (5) 24 Type of music (4)


Keep the winter blues at bay with a pamper day at Riah Body and Soul.

Situated in the heart of Banchory, Riah Body and Soul has been trading for a little over a year, young as we may be we’ve expanded our service range and now offer a host of unique treatments.

As well as gel and acrylic nails, waxing and spray tanning our oasis of a salon, in Scott Skinner Square Banchory, provides bespoke skincare assessments, a range of facials and massages and a celebrity brow service.

With more than one treatment bound to catch your eye who wouldn’t want a voucher for Riah under the tree this Christmas? Vouchers can be purchased from the salon.

Environmental influences, everyday hectic, physical and mental states - all these factors have an impact on our skin’s functioning and condition. Riah works with La Biosthetique products as our companies share the belief that everyone’s skin is unique and that what suits one person may not suit another. La Biosthetique products provide you with methodical

care for your personal skin requirement in order to maintain and restore the skin’s balance. At Riah Body & Soul we test your skin type to determine which treatments will work best for you.

Why not book the salon for a half or full days exclusive pamper experience for yourself and friends. Have the whole salon to yourselves with all our staff and chilled champagne at your disposal. This experience has proved popular amongst our bridal clientele and as an alternative birthday gift. Make a day of it and dine out at one of the local luxury hotels here in Banchory.

We also offer a clinic for hair and scalp treatments. If you suffer from weak hair or hair loss we can examine your hair follicles to determine which treatment path to take to help you grow stronger and healthier hair. We work with the ‘La Biosthetique’ range of shampoos and hair care products, which advocates that good hair care stems from the scalp.

For those with more extreme hair loss Riah can create the perfectly tailored wig through our bespoke wig service, ‘Love Your Hair’. Hair loss occurs for a number of reasons and affects people in all walks of life, here at Riah we can give you your confidence back.

Come on into the salon and experience a La Biosthetique facial for half price, just tear off the voucher below.

Riah Body & Soul ...Winter facial promotion50% off all La Biosthetique facials in November then receive 20% off a facial in December and receive 30% off in January. Offer redeemable with presentation of this tear off voucher

Riah Body & Soul Beauty Salon, 2 Scott Skinner Square, Banchory 01330 820677

Something for every woman’s Christmas wish list!

Which LBD for your shape?

I n today’s ever changing world of fashion, there is one item of clothing that should stand the test of time if chosen correctly. Simple, elegant styling that can be dressed up or down will ensure durability and versatility for every girl’s wardrobe essential – the

little black dress!

When selecting the ideal LBD, pay attention to the cut, style and length.

Petite frames look good in short dresses – they elongate the legs - but if you want your LBD to last more than a season or two the most enduring, universally flattering length is around the knee.

If you have a large chest, try a square, V-shaped or wrap neckline, and avoid puffy sleeves that will add unwanted volume.

Pear shaped ladies should balance out a larger bottom half by wearing a top with embellishments to accentuate the bust line. In addition, the skirt should define the waist and loosely skim the hips.

Wide shoulders can be minimised by wearing a one shoulder style, and by avoiding a full or blouson top and fitted bottom.

If you don’t have much of a waist, move the waistline up or down, or eliminate it all together with a shift dress.

Whatever style you decide on, consider following the 3:1 rule: 3 parts covered to one part revealed to keep your image chic and sexy!

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

HD Beauty Clinic, Scott Skinner Square, Banchory

Mob : 07840 322 710www.fresh-aesthetics.co.uk

For a fresh approach to a youthful new you ...* Dermal Fillers* Derma Rollers* Injectable Beauty Treatments* Jan Marini Peels and Medical Grade Products* Microdermabrasion

For a free initial consultation contact ...Penny graduated from Glasgow Dental

School as a dentist in 1998 and has since had considerable experience in both NHS

and private practice. She has a proven ability in guiding clients to the right choice

of treatment and an eye for perfection.

[]

Suite G4/1Banchory Business Centre

Burn O’Bennie, Banchory AB31 5ZUTel : 01330 826511

email : [email protected]

Back pain?Neck pain?

Headaches?

Whatever your complaint, why not try chiropractic?*

Professional, well experienced chiropractors situated locally at:

*If you are unsure about chiropractic being the best choice for you, just call for a confidential

discussion with the chiropractor.

Suite G4/1Banchory Business Centre

Burn O’Bennie, Banchory AB31 5ZUTel : 01330 826511

email : [email protected]

A warm welcome to Eleonor

Banchory Chiropractic are pleased to welcome an

experienced associate, Eleonor Hall. Thanks to Eleanor we can

now extend our opening hours and cater for more new patients.


‘Elf and Safety at Christmas!We’ve all met them - those odd souls who bound up to us

on the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, informing us that there are just 358 days until next Christmas.

They seem thrilled at the prospect of another season of peace and good will to all men, whilst we’re still recovering from the last one, grateful to have emerged unscathed.

There are health warnings about any number of things, but Christmas rarely features. Yet there are all kinds of dangers lurking behind innocent looking fairy lights and seemingly innocuous novelties. A whopping 31 people have died since 1996 from watering their Christmas tree while the lights were still on, others have suffered broken arms from pulling Christmas crackers (really?!), and each year a couple of people die after testing 9 volt batteries on their tongue!

These facts and figures are not for the faint hearted, nor is paying a visit to Father Christmas apparently. Experts say that small children often find a trip to Santa ‘terrifying’ and that responsible adults should take appropriate action to lessen the trauma. I must admit, I do possess a photo of my daughter looking highly distraught, whilst a white haired, bearded stranger desperately tries to wrestle her back on to his knee.

We all know the dangers of drinking and driving, but did you know that accidents have occurred involving out of control toy racing cars? The police warn us to stay at home when the weather is bad, but not if there is a novice Scalextric driver on the loose! Incidents with unfamiliar toys rate in the top three causes of accidents at Christmas.

When my sister and I dropped the odd Lego brick, we knew dad had found it when we heard a loud howl and saw him hopping around on one foot. Treading on broken toy parts, or being stabbed by pins left in shirts, may result in a trip to casualty. Nothing less than total vigilance is called for.

Do not open beer bottles with your teeth, or leave fairy lights on unattended, nor should you use a knife as a substitute for a screwdriver, pair of scissors or tooth pick. Every year, dozens of people are admitted to Accident and Emergency departments over the Christmas period having done one, (or in some cases more than one) of these.

And finally... the Food Standards Agency tells us that some ten million turkeys are sold every year at Christmas. They also tell us that 20 percent of all cases of food poisoning are poultry-related, so you can see there is a capacity for disaster lurking inside almost every oven in the land. How many of us check our oven temperatures using a thermometer? And how many more of us are still eating left-overs a week later. Make an oven thermometer top priority this year, and freeze left-overs or dispose of them after three days.

Wherever you are, and whatever you’re up to this season, take care and have a very happy (and safe) Christmas, then exhale because it’s a full 358 days before you have to do it all again.

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti


Last-minute Christmas Gift Cake


Last Minute Christmas Gift CakeTraditionally Christmas cakes are made well in advance but if you haven’t had time try our last-minute version. Because it makes two you can also give one away as a gift, and solve two problems with one recipe!

Ingredients600g good-quality mixed dried fruits150ml whisky, warmed150g stem ginger, drained, plus8 tbsp ginger syrup from the jar200g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing300g plain flour2 tsp baking powder2 tsp mixed spice200g soft light brown sugar4 large free-range eggs2 tbsp milkFinely grated zest of 2 small oranges and 2 lemons50g ground almonds150g whole glacé cherries

Method Put the dried fruits in a bowl and pour over the whisky. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the fruit to plump up.

Briefly blend the ginger and its syrup in a mini food processor until finely chopped. Preheat the oven to 160°C/fan140°C/gas 3. Grease and line a 20cm square cake tin.

Sift the flour, baking powder and mixed spice into a large bowl and add the rest of the ingredients except the cherries. Beat with a hand-held electric whisk for 2 minutes until pale and fluffy. Fold in the soaked dried fruits and any whisky, the blitzed ginger and the cherries.

Spoon into the baking tin and level off. Bake for 1-1¾ hours (this depends very much on your oven. My fan oven is super-quick whereas my mother’s aga is slower). If you’re unsure I recommend you check after an hour then every fifteen minutes after that, until the cake is firm and golden brown. To check, insert a skewer into the centre of the cake. If it comes out clean the cake is cooked. You can cover it loosely with foil after 1 hour if the centre needs more time. This prevents the surface darkening too much. Leave in the tin for 10 minutes, and then remove to a wire rack to cool.

Remove a thin slice from all sides of the cake and discard. Cut the cake in half to make 2 rectangles.

Top with marzipan and white fondant icing and decorate with a sprig of holly.

Makes 2 cakes, each serving 8 Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 1-1¾ hours depending on oven.


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12 www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 - 318561 email : [email protected] 12 www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 - 318561 email : [email protected]

Which Aberdeen workforce boasts staff with past lives as diverse as oil and gas, financial services, art and design, agriculture, teaching and even the army?

In its November recruitment drive, VSA, the UK’s largest city social care charity, is creating a new generation of care work careers. Unlike jobs that demand a degree or training, VSA looks at personal experience first, creating a collection with wonderfully varied staff backgrounds.

VSA, which supports a massive 5,000 people every year in Aberdeen city and shire, wants to show the local public that there are exciting, progression-focused jobs in social care, right on their doorstep. But the charity has noted a massive misconception that, for a rewarding, uplifting job in care, prior experience or training is needed.

That’s not how it’s done at VSA. It looks at the overall potential of a candidate to care for their community instead of judging them on previous jobs – or lack of. VSA wants people from all backgrounds, whether youngsters fresh from school, proud parents returning to work or someone seeking a complete career makeover.

L-R Anne Coyle, Linn Moor student Lewis Andrew, Neil Cooper

13please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts 13

Obviously, qualified support workers are very welcome. But the recruitment team wants to explore a new generation of workers too. People who are naturally compassionate and can use personal experience or attributes to get ahead professionally. They want to hear from people who have brought up children, spent time caring for a disabled family member or even just been there for a friend when they are unwell. These life skills all form an important package and everything else, from basic qualifications to intensive training, is provided by VSA to turn what could be ‘just a job’ into a fully-fledged career.

Caring came naturally to Anne Coyle, service manager at VSA’s Linn Moor School in Peterculter. This ability was all she started with but, thanks to VSA’s passion for progression, she got everything else she needed to get on the career ladder. Anne began as a support worker and now she’s managing support workers.

VSA’s Mo Lutton came into social care after a three-year spell in Aberdeen’s booming oil and gas industry. Although the powerful prospects of the energy sector were exciting, she realised social care offered something really similar. All she arrived with was a basic understanding of care and bags of enthusiasm but three months later, she

knows VSA’s in-house training already has her on the career ladder.

For Mo, care isn’t a nine to five, desk-based, suited and booted role. There haven’t been two days the same since she started. And, although there are challenges, she finds her job uplifting and incredibly satisfying. She says: “The service users make it all worthwhile. I really look forward to coming to work. How many people can say that?”

In Deeside, VSA’s Craigton Grove, supported housing for 12 adults with learning disabilities, Easter Anguston Farm, a 70-acre working farm that nurtures adults with learning disabilities, and Linn Moor Residential School, helping children aged between five and eighteen reach goals they didn’t know they had, are all on the hunt for happy, hardworking heroes. Further positions are available throughout Aberdeen city.

A VSA recruitment day will be held on 29 November 2012 at Union Square (upper atrium) between 9am and 6pm and at 38 Castle Street between 10am and 4pm. For more information or to apply for a position, visit www.vsa.org.uk/jobs, e-mail [email protected] or call 01224 358589.

Fantastic holiday home in Aphrodite Hills,

award-winning Golf and Leisure Resort in

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Easy walk to golf, tennis, Spa,

supermarket and restaurants.

See website for details, photos and video

Luxury Penthouse to rent: www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com e: [email protected]


Garden ViewDeck the halls

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An abundance of cut-foil decorations, thin wispy tinsel and multicoloured fairy lights are my earliest recollection of Christmas decorations, where the lounge was proudly decorated like

a pub (you can tell I was an 80’s child!). My brother and I would drag a dining room chair into the lounge for our father to stand on (a time before health and safety was an issue), and he’d hang the same dusty decorations we’d bring down from the fusty loft every year. He’d insist that “we must use the same holes as last year” as he pushed the drawing pins through the Artex ceiling. To be fair to my parents, by the 1990’s Mum tried to modernise the decorations, opting for a more muted colour pallet of red green and white, but as kids we hated the idea of such radical change, but alas the foil decs were relegated to our bedrooms. Although I hold these memories dear, I wouldn’t have this kind of decoration anywhere near my minimalist abode, and much prefer real ‘trimmings’ wherever possible. I don’t think there’s anything more special than a family day out collecting pine cones and seed heads, then returning to the garden to cut long lengths of Ivy to wrap around the spindles on the staircase whilst humming “Deck

the Halls with Boughs of Holly” (words from 1881). The word ‘deck’ in the title is of course referring to the verb meaning ‘adorn’ and entered the language from the Dutch word ‘dekken’, meaning ‘to cover’ (although you’d be forgiven for thinking it sounds like a piece of furniture from Ikea!).

Both Holly and Ivy will last a week or so without water when cut and brought into the house (longer still if its cooler), but other foliage will require some moisture. The easiest way to make your own table decoration is to take an old 6 inch terracotta pot and squash a wetted piece of green oasis inside. Place a church candle centrally and add in cut pieces of Holly, Ivy and other evergreen leaves, as well as berries such as Holly and Cotoneaster. You can even add in pine cones (scented with a few drops of festive scented oil) or push in a couple of Cinnamon sticks. Do make sure you place it on a level saucer or similar, keep it moist and don’t let the candle burn too low (remembering never to leave a lit candle unattended!).

Other festive ideas to do this month:• UseexcesstrimmingsfromtheChristmastreetomakeawreath• Plantupacolourfulfestivepotforoutsideyourfrontdoor,andwhynotaddsome

battery operated lights• EnsureyourPoinsettiaisplacedoutofcolddraughts

Oh, and don’t forget to make a gardening Christmas wish list for Father Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

Lee


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Night Time Gallery Event

Tuesday 4 December 6 - 9pm

Hosted by Alastair Buchan & Gregor Howitt of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

St. James’s Place House3 Queen’s GateAberdeenAB15 5YL

All welcome!

December 4th will see Cristina Vettese and Keith Douglas’s wonderful private collection of modern art made public in a one o� Collector’s show at St. James’s Place Wealth Management. With a collection consisting of over 100 pieces boasting classics by Picasso, Hollywood sign pieces by the amazing Bill Mack and a very large and wonderful Andy Warhol, the selected exhibition promises to give the public an up close and personal introduction to the couple’s life long collection. An exhibition like no other, The Collector will be a Night Time Gallery event, open 6 - 9pm inviting you to make an evening out of this rare viewing opportunity.

On December 5th Cristina and Keith will share their vast collection by turning The Collector into a buyer’s event, providing you with the chance to invest in a unique piece of modern art.

buyer’s event

Wednesday 5 December 6 - 9pm

Hosted by Cristina Vettese & Keith Douglas

St. James’s Place House3 Queen’s GateAberdeenAB15 5YL

If you would like to be included on the invite list and receive more information for this event, please email: [email protected]

After these events there will be an opportunity during December to view the full collection within the exclusive setting of Cristina and Keith’s home - by appointment only. Please email Keith Douglas [email protected] or call SMART Consultants on 01224 561977

It’s That Man Again!Yes that one...it might be your dad, your brother or your favourite uncle. You don’t want to buy socks but you’re darned if you do know what to buy them. Relax, we’re here to help.

Is the problem that your difficult male is too cool for anything as mundane as socks? Try Rough Trade’s Album Club (www.thealbumclub.com). Each month your lucky man will receive a package containing the must-have album of the moment – a new musical discovery. For genuine cool it’s hard to beat. Gift subscriptions start at just £24.

Perhaps the problem is that your tricky chap has such a unique style that it’s tough to choose anything guaranteed to appeal to his sartorial side. Last year I discovered Bivolino (www.bivolino.com). Here your man can design his own shirt in 3D, and have it custom made. The site has style advice and hints and tips on designing. It’s rather addictive and I guarantee that if fashion is his thing he’ll have fun. E-vouchers start at £25.

Sometimes, and this is especially the case with older men, they really don’t want for anything and secretly dread having to dispose of unwanted smellies and sweets. Socks are useful, but boring. So what about a gift subscription to a magazine? There’s a title for pretty much any interest, including current affairs, history, psychology and sport. Many can be purchased for downloading to a tablet or phone.

The final male is the trickiest to satisfy. He’s grumpy and unappreciative, no matter what, so in this case I’d recommend a charity gift. That way at least someone somewhere in the world will appreciate your generosity! Happy hunting.

By Sarah Davey


Want to dance but can’t? Then head along to a Ceroc class...What is Ceroc?The dance styles that closely resemble what people learn at a Ceroc night are Jive and Salsa. Learning to partner dance with Ceroc is the largest and fastest growing dance organisation in the UK. More than 320,000 people will learn to dance with CEROC this year in over 80 locations every week across the country.

Since the early 80’s CEROC has developed its own unique style which is easy to learn and great fun. Besides this, it’s a fantastic way to keep fit and a very sociable way to spend an evening. One of the other great things about CEROC is that there’s no need to come with a partner. Our teaching method means everyone changes partners during the class. Learning to JiveSalsa is a great way to keep fit, socialise and enjoy a complete night out.

Come and join the hundreds of new people who are learning to CEROC every week. All CEROC nights starts with a beginners class for 45 minutes. Then there is a short freestyle session followed by the more challenging Intermediate class. After this 30 minute class, your night out really starts when the DJ takes command of the freestyle session. This is an hour and an half of pure uninterrupted dance where you can improve your dance style and soak up the atmosphere’s addictive ambience.

There are three classes a week in Aberdeen.

Monday Night : Holiday inn Westhill7.30pm - 10.30pm

Wednesday Night : The Albyn, Aberdeen7.30pm - 10.30pm

Thursday Night : The Station Hotel, Aberdeen7.30pm - 10.30pm

There are regular workshops held and party nights to help improve your moves.


A Good Read

So, it’s Christmas – time to curl up with a good book. But what to read? The newspapers are full of recommendations of which books to buy for your mum, your brother, your second –cousin-twice-removed... probably even your dog! Here are a few alternative suggestions.For Grown-UpsWant nostalgia and a lyrical description of times gone by, when ‘December was as white as Lapland though there were no reindeers’? Then dig out ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’ by Dylan Thomas, preferably with Edward Ardizzone’s illustrations. Short, simple and beautiful, it sums up Christmas with the Uncles, snow on the ground and the myriad delights for a small boy on the best day of the year.If, however, you are feeling slightly less full of cheer and goodwill, Jilly Cooper might be more to your taste. The Christmas scene in ‘Appassionata’ is one of my favourite ever depictions of the holiday, but every December I find myself turning first to ‘How to Survive Christmas’ – bleak, witty and sometimes crushingly accurate, it is Cooper’s account of how to get through a typical festive season. Another excellent book with a brief but memorable Christmas sequence, is ‘Angels and Men’ by Catherine Fox. It is hard to get hold of, but I promise you, Mara’s Christmas with her grandmother is not one you will forget – and the rest of the book is beautifully written, too.Finally, from the realms of fantasy, why not try Christmas Discworld style in ‘Hogfather’ by Terry Pratchett? As you might expect, this Santa is very different – for a start, those are pigs, not reindeer pulling his sleigh. And he seems a little on the bony side. What

does Death have to do with Christmas? More than you might think....For KidsFor many people, ‘The Snowman’ by Raymond Briggs is their Christmas classic of choice. I much prefer ‘Father Christmas’ – eloquently told by pictures and relatively few words, it follows a curmudgeonly Santa on his journey around the globe, dropping off presents, struggling down chimneys, trudging up stairs, through all kinds of weather...Merry Bloomin’ Christmas! Another favourite is ‘Dear Father Christmas’ by Jeanne Willis and Rosie Reeve. This picture book follows Mary as she writes her Christmas letter. Her wishes are rather different, as she doesn’t need any more toys – but an everlasting hamster and self tying shoelaces would come in rather handy. Of course, there is a twist in the tale, but we certainly didn’t see it coming, and it has been read over and over again – even at the height of summer.And, if you like the Jolly Postman, then you will love ‘The Jolly Christmas Postman’ by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. As you might expect, there are a range of letters to be opened, with cards, games and even a jigsaw puzzle for the lucky nursery rhyme characters on his rounds. An absolute delight.And finally...How could we look at Christmas without mentioning the two biggest Christmas classics ever? I mean of course, ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens and ‘The Night Before Christmas’ by Clement C Moore. I know you have seen a million and one adaptations of the former (The Muppets do it best!), but the book really is worth a read. Be honest, when else are you going to curl up by the fire with a Dickens novel if not during a long snowy holiday? Give it a try. As for the former, we read it out loud every Christmas Eve, just before the lights go out. I stole this tradition from a friend, and I am passing it on to you. How can you refuse?

Merry Christmas!Kath Bennett

theEnchanted Castle

Fantasia 2012Magic Zone,

Fire Jugglers and Spectacular New Effects

www.theenchantedcastle.info

The organisers appreciate the support of the following

Crathes Castle 21-25th Nov

in association with

Limited Availability

Advance ticket sales only from

Aberdeen Box Office

tel 01224 641122

www.boxofficeaberdeen.com

www.nts.org.uk

Open 5pm-9.30pm.

Free on-site car parking.

Cowdray HallSchoolhillAberdeenAB10 1SQ

[email protected]/teacosy

01224 561977

SATURDAY 8 DECEMBER10am - 6pm

L CAL

Now you have 10 pages of local businesses...Local events, theatre listing, clubs and classes, notices.Keep trade local and start using and supporting local businesses today.


Outside Covers POTB 11 - 2012.indd 1 3/25/2012 12:02:48 PM

North-East Scotland's magazine of literature and the visual arts is delighted to continue its partnership with NEOS, both organisations with a mutual passion to foster the artistic talents of our unique corner of Scotland - and to share this secret with the wider world!

Issue 11 on sale at some NEOS studios and outlets around the North East.

Outside Covers POTB 11 - 2012.indd 1 3/25/2012 12:02:48 PM

www.pushingouttheboat.co.uk ~ follow us on facebook ~

Issue 11 of North-East Scotland’s magazine of literature and visual arts is on sale at local vendors or via the gazette! Contact Sue to get your copy or pop into ... Junction Art & GiftsHammerton StoresBooks and BeansArt Gallery and in Cost £6.00

What’s On Aboyne ...Daniel's Beard, Chamber Ensemble At Deeside CEC Theatre,Aboyne Friday 7th December 2012, 19:30What’s On Banchory ...Saturday Storytimes At Banchory Library Saturday 24th November 2012, 11:00 - 11:30Saturday Storytime at Banchory Library Saturday 24th November 2012, 11:00 - 11:30 Woodend Arts Festive Craft Fair At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Saturday 24th November 2012, 11:00 - 17:00 Woodend Arts Festive Craft Fair At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Sunday 25th November 2012, 10:00 - 16:00Film Night: Brave (USA 2012) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Wednesday 28th November 2012, 19:30Michael Marra and The Hazey Janes At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Friday 30th November 2012, 20:00Holly Fest and the Elves' Toy Factory At Drum Castle Saturday 1st December 2012, 11:00 - 16:00

Hear the Drum At Drum Castle Saturday 1st December 2012, 11:00 - 15:00WMS: The Triplice Trio At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Saturday 1st December 2012, 19:30 Holly Fest and the Elves' Toy Factory At Drum Castle Sunday 2nd December 2012, 11:00 - 16:00 Fred Morrison At Finzean Hall, Finzean Sunday 2nd December 2012, 20:00

Dreich House At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 6th December 2012, 19:30 Daimh Christmas Show At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Friday 7th December 2012, 20:00 Saturday Storytimes At Banchory Library Saturday 8th December 2012, 11:00 - 11:30

Holly Fest and the Elves' Toy Factory At Drum Castle Saturday 8th December 2012, 11:00 - 16:00

Film Night: It's a Wonderful Life (USA 1946) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Tuesday 11th December 2012, 19:30

Film Night: The Bishop’s Wife (USA 1947) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Wednesday 12th December 2012, 19:30

The Nutcracker - live from the Royal Opera House At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 13th December 2012, 19:15

F.O.C.U.S (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland) At Banchory Town Hall Saturday 15th December 2012

Breakneck Comedy Night At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Sunday 16th December 2012, 20:00

Film Night: Die Hard (cert. 18) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Wednesday 19th December 2012, 19:30

Film Night: Elf (cert. PG) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 20th December 2012, 19:30

Saturday Storytimes At Banchory Library Saturday 22nd December 2012, 11:00 - 11:30 Saturday Storytime at Banchory Library Saturday 22nd December 2012, 11:00 - 11:30


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Monday to Saturday, November 19 to 24: West End star and multi-platinum selling artist Marti Pellow, alongside Niki Evans, heads the cast of Blood Brothers, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2pm Thursday and 2.30pm Saturday matinees. Tuesday, November 20: The UK’s hottest vocal harmony group, The Overtones, live in concert, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Friday, November 23: Steve Steinman’s cult rock show Vampires Rock, blasting their way through some of the greatest rock anthems ever in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Friday, November 23: Transformed into an overnight success with the release of their first single, the infectious cover of Smokey Robinson’s Tears of a Clown, The Beat, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm. Saturday, November 24: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tour at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am.

Saturday, November 24: Celebrating the release of her new album Traces, Scottish singer-songwriter Karine Polwart, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Sunday, November 25: Scotland’s award-winning comedian and internationally-acclaimed half-man-half-box, Daniel Sloss, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Monday, November 26: With support from Adrian Crawley, the incomparable Aidan Moffat and Bill Wells return to The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm. Usual age restrictions apply: over 14s only and U16s with an adult.

Tuesday, November 27: Frontman and creator of Hayseed Dixie, the inimitable John Wheeler, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Wednesday, November 28: The largest community choir in Scotland, with 300 singers, Aberdeen Singing Chorus, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Thursday, November 29: Featuring hits of the 60s by the stars of the 60s Sixties Gold, with Gerry and the Pacemakers, The Animals, PJ Proby and Chip Hawkes, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Thursday, November 29: In association with Jazz at the Blue Lamp, The Lemon Tree Lounge presents Konrad Wizniewski Octet - the celebrated jazz musician who has been part of the renowned Scottish jazz outfit Brass Jaw since 2006, receiving the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Ensemble of the year 2011 and Best Group and Best Album at the Scottish Jazz Awards - in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Friday, November 30: Rizzle Kicks, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm. SOLD OUT

Friday, November 30 and Saturday, December 1: St Katherine’s Club at the Lemon Tree, doors at 7.30pm. SOLD OUTSaturday, December 1 to Sunday, January 6: Aberdeen Performing Arts and Qdos Entertainment present the truly wicked panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Elaine C Smith, Alan McHugh and Jordan Young, at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, with matinees at 1.45pm or 2.30pm and evening performances at 7pm daily except for Mondays Dec 3, 10 and 17, Friday Dec 21, Tuesday, Dec 25 and Tuesday Jan 1.

Saturday, December 1: Bagpipes with attitude and drums with a Scottish accent with The Red Hot Chilli Pipers - voted Scotland’s Live Act of the Year in

2007 and 2010 at the Scots Trad Music Awards - in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, December 2: London Handel Players, with renowned Scottish fiddler Alasdair Fraser and cellist Natalie Haas, with a programme which includes James Oswald’s Airs for the Season’s and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons ad well as folk inspired music by Rameua, Leclair, Corrette and Lully, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Monday to Monday, December 3 to 24: SYT Productions and Aberdeen Performing Arts present, It Wasn’t Me, It Was Goldilocks, Baby Bear’s story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, a festive show for audiences aged from three to seven and their families, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, Mondays to Thursdays at 10.30am and 1.30pm (including Christmas Eve) and Saturdays and Sundays at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4pm, with additional 4pm performances Monday to Thursday, Dec 17 to 20.

Tuesday, December 4: After an 18-month sabbatical Runrig are back on the road refreshed and re-invigorated with a revamped show and set, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Wednesday, December 5: The hugely popular annual Evening Express Carol Concert with music performed by Aberdeen schools, raising money for local charities, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Wednesday, December 5: DF Concerts present Glasgow heavy rock band Gun, who have previously toured with The Rolling Stones, Def Leppard and Bon Jovi and performed at this years Download Festival, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Friday, December 7: Hepburn star and familiar face on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind

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Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122


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the Buzzcocks, 8 out of 10 Cats, Russell Howard’s Good News and Argumental, Chris Ramsey: Feeling Lucky, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm. Saturday, December 8:

Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tour at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122

Saturday, December 8: The Scottish Chamber Orchestra, with conductor John Storgards, is joined by the great keyboard player Artur Pizarro for Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No2 in a programme which also includes Rautavaara’s Into the Heart of Light and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No5 Reformation, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, December 9: In aid of CLICSargent, supporting children and adolescents with cancer, Grampian Hospitals Christmas Carol Concert, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 2.30pm.

Tuesday, December 11: An evening of musical delights from a variety of Aberdeen’s leading talent including Phoenix Youth Theatre, Aberdeen City Youth and Big Band and Portlethen Skip Hop, in aid of the Monty’s Maggies Appeal, a campaign to raise £100,000 & help build a cancer caring centre here in Aberdeen, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Wednesday, December 12: English folk/punk singer-songwriter Frank Turner, formerly the vocalist of post-hardcore band Million Dead but who has forged an acoustic-based solo career following the band’s split in 2005, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Thursday, December 13: A double header featuring two chart-topping 70s glam rockers, Slade and Sweet, performing

together on one stage, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Friday, December 14: A true Scottish celebration in a Christmas Ceilidh with Clachan Yell, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Friday, December 14: Multi-award winning horn section mavericks Brass Jaw Christmas Tour, in a lively and adventurous set at The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Saturday, December 15: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tours at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am and 11.30. Saturday, December 15: Featuring some of Aberdeen’s finest young musicians in two concerts of festive music by bands, orchestras and choirs, Aberdeen Music Centre’s Christmas Concerts, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 1pm and 7.30pm.

Saturday, December 15: Loud, proud and in-your-face Aberdeen-based heavy-frockers and 90s cult sensation The Bloody Marys’ Christmas Stocking, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Sunday, December 16: Phil Cunningham Christmas Concert, where Phil is joined by pals Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson, John McCusker, Kris Drever, Ian Carr and Kevin McGuire for a special Christmas songbook, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, December 18: Aberdeen Choral Society present Handel’s Messiah, with musical director Alistair Macdonald, with the chorus’s 120 voices backed by Grampian Sinfonia, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.15pm.

Wednesday, December 19: The Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s traditional

Christmas Concert is Howard Blake’s The Snowman, conducted by Christopher Bell and narrated by actress Maureen Beattie, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Friday, December 21: With presenter Jamie MacDougall and conductor Stephen Bell, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra present a programme of Christmas Classics, featuring well-loved carols and music, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Friday, December 21: The Fat Hippy Christmas Party with The Ruckus, GutterGodz and more, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at .7.30pm.

Saturday, December 22: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tours at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am and 11.30. Saturday, December 22: Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works, One Night of Queen is a spectacular live concert recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, December 23: Take a trip back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Las Vegas with Christmas with the Rat Pack, recreating the performances of Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin at the Sands Hotel, in the Music Hall, 7.5

Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122

Into the future...Birds of a Feather with Pauline Quirke, Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph April 2-6 2013The 39 Steps (June 3-8 2013) The Woman in Black (June 10 -15 2013)For younger audience ...Dora the Explorer (April 12 -14)Horrible Histories (April 23-27)Spot’s Birthday Party (June 13-15)


clubs and classes... 2367 (Banchory) Squadron - Air Training CorpsThe Air Training corps is a uniformed youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. For young people aged 13 and 17. www.2367sqn.org.uk Mon & Thur 7pm - 9.30pm McCombie Cadet Centre, Woodside Road, BanchoryAwanaA free childrens club (Nursery to P7) www.bcfchurch.org.uk Wed, 6.00 - 7.30pm Banchory Christian Fellowship Church, Burn of Bennie, Banchory Banchory & District Bridge ClubFor new people coming into the district, we can help with a bridge partner Tuesday, 6.50pm for 7pm start Burnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryBanchory & District Round TableFor men aged 18 - 45 yearswww.bad-rt.org Thursday, 7pm for 7.30pm Every 1st and 3rd Thursday, Banchory Lodge Hotel, BanchoryBanchory Boys Football Clubwww.banchoryboysclub.co.ukLast Sunday of the month, 7pm Caters for children from last year in nursery to P7 for Saturday training sessions from 10 - 11.30am at KGV Park Banchory and then for development and competitive teams from U8 to U19 levels Banchory British LegionBanchory Community Badminton ClubAll abilities and ages welcome, Friday, 10-11.30am, Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Cricket ClubCricket available from 8 years of age through to seniors Burnett Park, BanchoryBanchory East Badminton ClubFor age 14 years and upwards. Mon, 8-10pm, Banchory Academy Games HallBanchory Gymnastics ClubGirls from Primary 2 upwards. Waiting list in operation Tuesday , 3.30pm - 5pm Banchory Sports Centre Banchory SingersMeet during school term times. All ages welcome. www.pinebrae.co.uk/bs/Wed, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Lesser Town Hall 1 Kinneskie Lane, Banchory Banchory Sports Centre Banchory, AB315XPPhone: 01330 825269E: [email protected] St Ternan Football Clubwww.eteamz.com/banchorystternanTuesday, Thursday , 7 - 9pm Games on Saturday 1pm Milton Park, Crathes Banchory Stonehaven Athletic Club

For ages: 9 years to adultwww.banchorystonehavenac.co.ukMonday Mackie Academy, Slug Road Stonehaven, AB39 3DFBirse Community TrustExists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits.www.birsecommunitytrust.org.ukThe Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Birse Community TrustExists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits.www.birsecommunitytrust.org.ukThe Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Campfield & Glassel WRI1st Tuesday of each month. September - April, 7.30pm , Glassel Hall, Glassel City of Roses (Sweet Adelines International)Ladies singing group. Being able to read music an advantage but not necessarycityofroseschorus.co.uk Mon, 7.15-10.00pm Drumoak Church Hall, DrumoakCorse SWRITuesday, Evening , 3rd Tuesday of the monthCorse Hall, Corse, LumphananDeeside Childrens Music GroupFrom 9 - 15 years, Thursday, 4pm - 5.30pm In term time only, Aboyne Academy, AboyneDeeside Community TransportTwo community minibuses for hire by com-munity groups and non-profit groups. Both 17 seats and wheelchair adaptable.Charges are £1.00 per mile (as at July 2012), with a minimum invoice of £20.00.Deeside Gliding ClubInstruction available to all ages groups (subject to a minimum weight / height) in flying gliders. New members welcomewww.deesideglidingclub.co.ukDeeside Heritage SocietyDisabled access. Members and guests welcome. Tea and Coffee available.Third Wednesday of month, September to March, Bowling Club PavilionDeeside Musical SocietyWe cater for ages 16 years onwards, but depending on productions we also cater for children e.g. if we are performing a pan-tomime. Fees £40 per session, concessions £30. Monday, 7.30pm Aboyne Academy Community Centre Deeside OrchestraAny age from 16 years and upwards. http://www.deeside-orchestra.co.uk/Tuesday, 7.30-9.45pm

Victory Hall. Ballater Road AboyneDeeside Hillwalking ClubAn informal but active group, based around Banchory who focus on climbing munros and corbetts around Scotland. Minimum age 18 years We have a programme of events throughout the year, meeting approximately every 3rd weekendDeeside Rugby Football Club Membership is open to allGames played at Aboyne Green, Aboyne and Tillybrake Playing Fields, BanchoryDeeside School of DanceAll types of class and singing and drama from 3yrs to adult Rdsd.co.ukMon-Sat, Hill of Banchory South Banchory Deeside Youth Musical TheatreAge range 10 - 17 years. Theatre and mu-sicals group performing one show per year usually in March Thurs, 6.30 - 8.00pm Deeside Community CentreDeeside Steam & Vintage ClubPromotes the collection of steam and vintage machinery. Various events in the summer months from tractor runs to our annual rallyThe Deeside Village Hopper serviceis open to everyone!A scheduled service running Mon-Friday.Please call for details 013398 85222, or see: www.mid-deeside.org.uk.Deeside WritersFirst meeting free. £2 per meeting thereaf-ter. Annual membership £10www.deesidewriters.co.ukTuesday, 7.30pm 3rd Tuesday of the monthWoodend Barn, BanchoryDrumoak & Durris Playgroupbeehive.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=SiteHome&ID=5230Tuesday-Friday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am Crossroads Nursery, Slug Road, BanchoryDrumoak Durris Crathes Bowling ClubFees: Outdoor £50. Indoor £10, Juniors £12, Young Bowlers £25, Hats £1.50Hat nights / Afternoons Tues & Frid 7pm or Wed & Sat 2pm. All ages welcome. Bowling Pavilion, Off North Deeside Road, Drumoak Durris Junior Agricultural ClubFees - depends on the age. Ages 14-26 to compete in competitions Varies, Usually 7.30pm Kirkton Hall, Durris Durris SWRIDisabled access. Fees £12 per year.Monday , 7.30pm 2nd Monday of the monthKirkton Hall, Durris


DAWGS finds loving new homes for abandoned and unwanted dogs, and for those whose owners due to frailty or ill- health find they can no longer take care of them. We have given thousands of dogs a second chance over the last 15 years. We receive no statutory funding and rely on donations and legacies to fund our caring work. Recent legacies have helped fund emergency vet bills, emergency kennel care and animal behaviourists and trainers in special situations. Please help us give more dogs the chance to live out their lives in a safe and loving home through a donation or legacy. For more information contact:

6 Small HoldingsLang StrachtAberdeenTel 01224 208989 email: [email protected]

Scottish Charity Number: SCO22666

www.dawgs.co.uk

Make A Gift That Will Make A Difference

Bridge View Gallery1 North Esplanade West, Aberdeen, AB11 5QF

25th November 2012 • 1:45pm - 4:00pm (The art can be previewed on the Our Kids Too website and from 19th November at the Bridge View Gallery)

www.ourkidstoo.co.uk

Auction of Original Art Works and PrintsOur Kids Too

AromatherapyReflexology and Reiki

Janis Louden MICHTt: 01339 883411 e: [email protected] House, nr Lumphanan, AB31 4SB

2012/2013


clubs and classes... Finzean SWRIThursday, 7.30pm 3rd Thur of every month from Sept until April Finzean Hall, Finzean Fitness for the Over 50sMonday, 11am - 12.30pm Weekly, Sept to June, Victory Hall, AboyneFootstarsA fun football and fitness activity for boys and girls aged 2-6 years. Currently running sessions 7 days a week in Banchory, Stone-haven and Westhill www.footstars.co.ukFriends of Durris ForestsWe work closely with Forestry Commission Scotland to monitor the use, accessibility and state of Durris Forest and its outliers. www.friendsofdurrisforests.co.ukGirlguiding - Banchory3 Rainbow Units aged 5-7,4 Brownie Units aged 7-10 and 3 Guide Units aged 10-14 but due to Waiting Lists we would like to open further Units when we can get the Volunteer Leaderswww.girlguiding.org.ukBanchory Morris Men Telephone 01330 822320 Lively dancing with stick, bells, etc. (and not just English, we also do Scottish dances at Crathes Village Hall - 815pm on a Tuesday.Noahs ArkFrom Bumps to 3 years of age. Mums have opportunity for a coffee and a blether! Friday, 10am-12 West Church Hall, BanchoryRaemoir WRIFor any age, Tuesday, 7pm, Third Tuesday of the month, Dalvenie Gardens Resource Centre, Raemoir Lane, BanchoryRotary Club of Banchory TernanOpen to all rotarianswww.banchory-ternan-rotary.comWednesday, 6.15pm for 6.30pm The Burnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryRoyal Deeside 41 ClubFriday - First Friday each monthBurnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryRoyal Deeside Railway Preservation SocietyRailway restoration & working railway. All welcome www.deeside-railway.co.ukMon,Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun, Daytime Light and heavy volunteer work available Milton of Crathes Visitor Centre, CrathesSaltire Tae Kwon-do AcademiesAge specific programmes. Ninja Kidz (4-6 yrs), Dragon Warriors (7-9 yrs), Juniors (10 - 12 yrs), Youth/Seniors (13+yrs) and Korean Kickboxing www.saltiretkd.com/

Scottish Accordion Music GroupSunday, 2nd Sunday of monthKirkton Hall, DurrisSplat 0-5 s Music GroupChildren aged 0 - 5 years invited with carers. Fee: 50p per family. Disabled access and facilities Wednesday, 2pm - 3.15pm Term time only Drumoak Church HallTai Chi AberdeenshireFor information about classes, tuition for groups or individuals, view the website. Instructor member of Tai Chi Union for Great Britain www.taichiaberdeenshire.co.ukTake a SeatAdapted seated classes of Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong) for people who are unable to stand to exercise www.takeaseat.org.ukTarland Film ClubMonthly films chosen by you. BYO snacks/refreshments. Open to those aged over 18 years in the Tarland area. Held in the upstairs room at the MacRobert Hall. Email: [email protected], or telephone 07880 935803. Facebook under ‘Tarland film-group’.Tom-TomsSinging group for Mums and carers with little ones from birth to 4 years. Fees £2 per family per week. We run 2 sessions ; 10 - 10.30, then 10.30 - 11 am. After each session refresh-ments are available. This is a busy group and you are advised to call first. Banchory Ternan East Church Halls, Station Road, BanchoryDetails from www.banchoryeastchurch.orgTootersMusic classes for young children in 3 age groups, Tooter Tots 0 - 2, Tooters 2 - 5 & Toots P1 & P2. Activities include singing, games, movement and instrument activities. tootersonline.co.ukUpper Deeside Art SocietyAnnual fee of £18.00, individual workshop fee of £20.00. Talks cover a range of arts related subjects, while the workshops cater for a variety of mediums and subjects.www.udas.org.uk Friday, 2pm Monthly, also monthly Saturday workshopsAboyne Bowling ClubWhite Crane Tai ChiClasses in Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong). Established 2000www.takeaseat.org.uk 7pm Banchory classes held on a Monday,

Woodside PlaygroupFor children aged 2years 10 months to 4 years Daily, 9.30am-12 noon 12.45-3.15pm Burnett Park Pavilion, BanchoryScript to Screen & Stage Drama & Film classes for children of 7-12 years of age. Aboyne Class held in Victory Hall Thursday 4pm-6.30pmBanchory Classes held in Banchory Guide Hut 4pm -6pm & 6.15pm - 8.15pmTel:01339 886265 email: [email protected] Singers are a mixed voice Community Choir. Meet at the community centre at Banchory Academy Raemoir Road Banchory AB31 5TQ each Wednesday evening during school term time. 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. Further information about the choir can be found on www.banchorysingers.co.ukBanchory Senior Citizens ClubOur club meets at the Banchory Primary School Hall at 7.15pm on the first Tuesday of each month between September and June, we aim to provide an hour of musical entertainment we also arrange a summer outing and a Christmas party. If you are 60 years plus why not contact us for more information on either of the following numbers. 01330 - 822977 or 825495Strachan SWRILadies Over 50+ £16 annual fee. Meet every third Thursday of the month. 7.30pm at Strachan Village Hall - Sept to MayTel : 01330 850442 for further info.

List your classes for FREE... Update your listing with a contact number. New classes or amendments full listing highlighted in red. T: 01224 318561www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk


Let’s talk wine...

J is for JaenJaen is just one of many indigenous Portuguese grape varieties that makes Portugal an ideal country to explore new wine tastes.

This early ripening red grape is found mainly in the Dao region. It’s soft berry flavours also blend well with the structure and complexity of Touriga Nacional and the blackberry and spice of Alfrocheiro Preto.

The dark berry, spicy Touriga Nacional is also at home in the Douro Valley where it is a component of both Port and still red wines. If you are a fan of Rioja, then look for Portuguese bottles bearing the names of either Tinta Roriz (in Douro and Dao) and Aragonez in the Alentejo region. Both are local names for Tempranillo, the key player in many a Rioja.

The Baga grape is found mainly in Bairrada. Its tannins and acidity require TLC both in the vineyard and winery but it is capable of producing intense wines capable of aging.

Producers to try:

Dao: Sogrape, Quinta Das Maias, Quinta Dos Roques,

Douro: Quinta Do Crasto, Quinta De La Rosa

Alentejo: Esporao, Joao Portugal Ramos

Bairrada: Luis Pato

Gift vouchers/places are available for Carols next WES Introductory evening class and 1 day workshop from www.wine-education-service.co.uk

For more information on wine tastings, courses and events in Aberdeen go to www.wineuncorkededucation.co.uk or call Carol on 01224 312076 Carol [email protected]

Carol is an Aberdeen based member of the Association of Wine Educators and the Circle of Wine Writers.


Well hello,have I caught you peeking! I’m Flat 3, 17 Jackson Terrace, Aberdeen.

I’m the whole of the top floor of a 3 flatted property.I have a lounge, eat-in kitchen, bathroom and one bedroom.I’m situated in a quiet street which has “free parking” (but we’ll whisper that so the council doesn’t hear). I am easy access to the beach and all the amenities it has to offer. Two large supermarkets. The University of Aberdeen. King Street which is great if you work at Bridge of Don or Aberdeen City and a fantastic bus service.

So what makes me so special...Like I said, I’m the top floor of a 3-flatted property and my neighbours are all friendly. I have nice double-glazed windows and gas central heating to keep you toastie and a security entry system to keep you safe.

My present owner bought me six year’s ago as her first flat. At the time she had to pick social space over bedroom space and guess what - I won - as I had the social space she craved as a first time buyer and entertainer of friends! My bedroom maybe compromised but it still takes a double bed, a triple pine wardrobe and a chest of drawers and I can still get access to the bed!

My kitchen will take a table and chairs and comfortably sits four. I have shared outside space within a walled garden. I have ample storage space for all your extra bits and bobs and access to the loft space too!

I would be an ideal purchase for a first time buyer. A nice mummy and daddy looking for an investment whilst their children are at University. A buy-to-let opportunity for the would be entrepreneur.

So why not pick up your phone and book a viewing right now ... telephone 07746 669234. If I can get you through the door i don’t think you will be disappointed. I’m a snip at offers over £98,000

My full particulars and home report can be viewed atASPC Reference: 294195 URL For This Property: http://www.aspc.co.uk/cgi-bin/public/SINGLE?ID=294195

I look forward to welcoming you as my new owner.

Deeside Issue 16

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