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• CULTER • COMMUNITY • NEWS •
planting, signs for Lover’s Walk, endless litter clearance and of course our new village entrance feature. Planting will be going on around it, to provide a striking welcome to visitors entering Aberdeen and of course Culter. Particular thanks Gala Opens in Style to Erik Stien, whose Special Guest Kathleen Walker arrives at the Gala in a tireless work raises beautiful MG with Harry & Allan Chalmers standards year on year. What next?! CCC have reCulter Community sponded to a Review of Aberdeen Council News Wood Plan, requested by Forestry Comlorious Gala! Another mission Scotland and are in support of sunny Saturday made sure Maryculter’s purchase of woodland (see that the 2013 Pipes and Drums later article). CCC are also hoping to co-ordinate Gala was a resounding success. the upgrade of play park facilities at The whole of Culter was out Crown Terrace on School Road, to raise in force, getting together with money and install equipment, following family and friends to enjoy the the removal of the roundabout for safety day. Our grateful thanks to Gala reasons. Many thanks to local residents Chair Allan McKenzie, who has and Councillor Malone for their efforts with this.
G
thanked everyone in the Gala article, except himself.
CCC also had a tent at the Gala this year. This was to highlight the work being done to provide the Council with a Planning Framework for the village, and to publicise the development of the Culter Emergency Resilience Plan. Along with some great photos of the village, there was a complete map of the AWPR route laid out in detail, across a series of tables. This helped people to understand the exact route and the potential problems! Culter in Bloom have been working incredibly hard to prepare for entry into the “Beautiful Scotland” Competition. Judging will have taken place by the time you read this, so keep your secateurs crossed! Competition or not, we are lucky to have such a dedicated team who care about keeping Culter looking its best. They don’t just provide all the flowers along the Deeside Road - they do so much more ... tree planting and a new path in Coronation Park, wildflower
CCC Meetings
Culter Community Council, whose members are volunteers, meet once a month at the Pop-In on North Deeside Road. They are joined by our three City Councillors, as well as representatives from the Police and City Wardens. The meetings are open to the public and start at 7 pm. The next meetings are on 20 August, 18 September and 24 October. Copies of the minutes are held at Culter Library. Philippa Matthew
Culter Community Resilience Plan Update
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n the last issue, we let you know that a group of residents along with some members of Culter Community Council were working together to develop a plan for helping
ISSUE No: 132
August 2013
in a local emergency. The government refer to this as “Community Resilience”. The Police, Fire and Ambulance Services, and Aberdeen City Council are always responsible for providing first line support in an emergency. These services can sometimes become overstretched and need additional support from the threatened community itself. Community Resilience is an initiative supported by the local, Scottish, and UK governments. The principle is that communities develop a plan so that they can help during an emergency in a way that complements, but in no way replaces, the response of the emergency services. Some examples of emergencies that could affect Culter are prolonged freezing conditions, heavy rain and flooding, power cuts, and even accidents involving the endless lorries that stream through the village. The Culter Resilience Plan group are making good progress in developing a plan, and wish to thank the organisations and the people of Culter who have helped them achieve this, and thank everyone who has already volunteered to help if there was an emergency.
GRANTS FROM GALA FUNDS Local groups are invited to apply for a grant from the Culter Gala Fund The closing date is Saturday 14 September 2013 Applications in writing should be sent to The Secretary Culter Gala Committee 255 North Deeside Road Peterculter AB14 0UL Or email judithkyle@talktalk.net
To enable the Committee to make a decision please state how your group plan to use any donation it may receive.
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Community Resilience depends on volunteers and more are needed. There are leaflets in the library about the Culter Resilience Plan and these include a form for those who would like to volunteer. Completed forms can be left with the library staff. In the November Courier, we intend including the Scottish Government form “Household Emergency Plan”, to help you create your own plan in time for winter. In the meantime, please let us know if you would like to be part of our team of volunteers. Hopefully, we will never need you! More information about Community Resilience can be found on the Scottish Government website: www. readyscotland.org. For more information about the Culter Resilience Plan and about volunteering, please contact: Judy Dack 01224 734569
Culter Gala 2013 Thank You!
C
ulter Gala 2013 was yet another successful event with sunshine abound once again for Gala Day. Our theme this year was “Pipe and Drums”, celebrating the 75th anniversary of Culter Pipe Bands. Our guest of honour, Kathleen Walker, a relation of the original founder of the first Culter Pipe Band opened the ceremony after also taking part in the procession along with the Gala Queen and Princesses. A special thanks to Kathleen for making the trip from Banchory and for being our judge for the day. Once again I have a few more thank you’s to hand out. May I add my sincere apologies now if I have missed anyone; and add my sincere thanks to those who have donated and helped but wish to remain anonymous. Everyone involved with the Gala does an absolutely tremendous job and without the hard work and dedication of these special people, our annual Gala event would not be possible. My first priority is to thank everyone involved in the Gala Committee. for all their help once again this year. Judith Kyle, Nicola Hector, Jackie Brawley, Tracy Nicholson representing the Culter Pipe Band, Allan Pennie, Brian Black, John Rugg, David Keay
Fancy Dress winners (L to R) Winners 2nd Georgia Hector 1stRebecca Jones 3rd Dylan Clayton
Allan Pennie with some of the Culter Champions (L to R) Amy Sinclair, Sarah Wiseman & Jazmyn Jeffries
Guest of Honour Kathleen Walker with Gala Chair Allan McKenzie
Kathleen with Beaver Float Competition winners (L to R) Charlie Hector, Willis Mair, Harris Clubb & Colin McPherson (below)
Hotel, Deans Of Huntly, Furain Guest House, Hair & Beauty Box, Hair Society, Hilda Selbie, Ho Lok Chinese, Judy Kyle, Jumbo Fish & Chips, Kelly Of Cults, Kippie Lodge, Lloyds TSB, Mark & Lorraine Mathieson, Massala Garden Indian, Meka, Michael Wood Chemist, Neil Selbie, Old Mill Inn, Petals Florist, Peterculter Golf Club, Peterculter Sports Centre, Poldino’s Restaurant, Scissors Palace, Scott Gilmour, Optometrists, Spar, Storybook Glen, Temple Aesthetics, The Old Bank Bar, The Ploughman and The Studio. For the winners list and more info on the Culter Gala, please visit
www.culter.net
Gala Queen & Princesses (L to R) Chloe Russo, Amy Sinclair & Olivia Farquhar representing the 58th Aberdeen (Culter) Scouts, Nigel Kendrick, Karen Bird and a big thank you to Callum Stewart who also did yet another great job of all the posters and brochures and compèring our Gala Day event. I also wish to thank our extra helpers on the day for helping out with the bouncy castles, setting up the field, collecting money and anything asked of them: Robbie Gauld, Calum MacKinnon, Peter Brawley and Julia Lewandowska. Thanks also go to the following people and groups for all their support and help. Balmoral Group, Kenny Luke and Amie Robinson, Culter Mills Club, Pam Dignan and her Highland Dancers, Harry Arnold, The Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside, Hilary and Mick Gordon, Davy Ross and his Gun Dogs, Ian Geary of Deeside Caravans, everyone who took part in the procession, Natalie Grimmer and the Police Scotland Team, Culter Primary School, Allan Pennie,
Heritage Hall, Culter Community Council, Ann Wakefield, Aileen Craigmile, Alison Skinner, Betty Cruickshank, Christina Taylor, John Troup, Margaret Gordon, Katrina Grant, Judith Riddoch and her young dancers, Louise Argo and her Jazzercise team, Lorraine Smith of Thistle Catering, Jane Bredin of Premiere Catering, Red Cross, Dianne Clark, Elizabeth Scott and finally Aberdeen City Council. I’d also like to thank all our sponsors: A. Will, Aberdeen Riding Club, Ann Wakefield, Aristacut, Barbers Pole, Blacks Bar, Borsalino, BP Filling Station, Brian Smith Funeral Directors, Café Bombay Indian Restaurant, Card & Gift Co, Carriages Vintage Car Hire, Chelsea House Clinic, Chicabelle Visage, Culter Curry House, Culter Fish Shop, Gordon Thomson and Culter Football Club, Culter Gala Committee, Culter Mill Club, Cults 3
Organising the Gala event each year takes considerable time, effort and resources; I’d like to take this opportunity to appeal for anyone who would be interested in helping out in any way they can to contact myself on 07802 502949 or by email. Thank you. Allan McKenzie Culter Gala Chair, on behalf of the Culter Gala Committee allan.mckenzie@btinternet.com
Planning PitTengullies Brae
In the May Courier, it was reported that Bancon have now applied to start their housing development in the field next to Pittengullies Brae and that one of CCC’s objections related to drainage issues. When David Wakefield was investigating how CCC could deal with the effects of flooding at the bottom of the Brae and the path down to the river, he happened to meet both the owner of the field and a director of Bancon, who were looking at CCC’s concerns, highlighted in their letter of objection. They said that they would see how they could help to make improvements when developing the site. We will look forward to this happening.
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124 North Deeside road The Old Police Station
Planning Permission has been retrospectively granted to allow the developers to have their Sales cabin in place and also to display advertising. The letter of explanation stated that the Roads Dept. Officers and the Planning Officer had made a careful study of the junction of School Road and the main road at commuting times and when school was going in and out. They found that the applications fulfilled all the rules and regulations on visibility and vehicular and pedestrian safety, and so found that application acceptable. All CCC can do is ask people to be extra careful now and later, when there will be a resident’s car park at this very busy junction (and no doubt roadside parking as well). New applications
As usual, there have been several applications for extensions, garages etc which did not involve CCC. One application objection was withdrawn after the plans were changed. Culter Cars Site 279 - 281 North Deeside Rd
CCC considered this application to be controversial. The site received Planning in Principle in June 2010 for a maximum of sixteen flats on the site, with Conditions attached. The owners are now seeking detailed planning permission as required in Condition 1 (access, siting, design, external appearance and landscaping all to be approved by the Planning Authority). The application is of course for sixteen flats, all two bedroom, two bathroom luxury flats, built over four storeys. Three storeys will be at street level and one at basement level looking onto the car park at the rear. The basement floor will have a light well between the building and the pavement (ideal for collecting all the rubbish and leaves blown about?)
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If permitted, the building will completely overpower its adjacent neighbours and those immediately across the street, which are all just 1½ storeys high, except the converted hotel, which is set right back from the road and is softened by the presence of some very tall trees around it. The access will be steep and fairly narrow and also somewhat blind to vehicles turning in and out from the main road. Service vans and delivery vans will also have to use this access, as the two residents’ entrances will be at the rear, from the car park. The amount of parking will be seriously insufficient for the likely number of car-driving adult residents, even including the four spaces proposed in front of the building on the North Deeside Road. Pedestrian access is by stairs only, both outside and inside the building, yet two disabled parking spaces are provided! The members of CCC also made the point that the majority of you keep telling us that we need family housing of a reasonable price and not more small flats, so our community can remain sustainable and viable, and not become a domitory for Aberdeen. Lavina Massie Planning Liaison Officer Culter Community Council
News from Councillors Boulton and Malik
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ummer is well underway and at the time of writing this we were forecast for a scorching July!
City of Culture
We received the news that we hadn’t been shortlisted for the City of Culture 2017 in June. The four shortlisted cities were Dundee, Leicester, Hull and Swansea. However, it seems that the City of
Culture bid process has proven to be something of a catalyst for Aberdeen and has spawned some interesting cultural evolution. Music, arts and drama through to sport, food and science organisations have started a conversation on how to work more actively together. This will raise their undisputed talent from a sometimes underground movement where lots happened but often went unseen by many, to a very visible cultural offering, engaging with a wider audience. The City of Culture 2017 winner will be announced in November. Aberdeen will continue to progress its programme of cultural activities in the meantime but will refrain from confirming its own ‘Year of Culture’, until we hear who has won, to make sure we don’t clash with Dundee, if they are successful in their bid to become the selected UK city. We have embraced the opportunity to harness the energy and enthusiasm that the bid process has created and turned the situation of not being shortlisted, into a chance to widen the scope of inclusion, which we couldn’t have done if we had still been in the competition. Aberdeen will have its own Year of Culture, with many exciting events leading up to it. Watch this space for further updates.
have to await the outcome of the study. I (Cllr Boulton) will continue to lead on this project, with the first meeting of the Working Group taking place at the end of July.
St Nicholas House
Dog Fouling
The redevelopment of the site of the old Council offices on Broad Street has recently been announced, but at this stage, the design has not been decided. It has been confirmed that the preferred bidder will work in partnership with the Council to develop the site. The current concept is for a 4/5 star hotel, office accommodation, coffee shop, restaurant and the existing Provost Skene House, all set in a civic square-type environment. Traffic modelling will be undertaken to ascertain if the section of Broad Street in front the square could be closed off to cars, or if a full closure, which included buses was practical. Clearly we will
Union Terrace Gardens
A plan for Union Terrace Gardens is still being worked on and we are hopeful we will be in a position to bring a report forward to full Council by the end of this year. The Pop-In, Culter
This room with facilities is used by a variety of residents and groups but still has capacity to be used more. The Council who owns the Pop-In is currently reviewing its use, ensuring that all options for its future are explored. We have an opportunity to look at the possibility of perhaps a Youth Café, one or two evenings a week. I (Councillor Boulton) would welcome people’s views and importantly offers of help to make this happen. Young people don’t really have a place to meet locally and this could offer a central, safe location where they can socialise. Other suggestions for uses of The Pop-In along with comments on the Youth Café idea would be welcome and can be made via email mboulton@btconnect.com We have again had several complaints about owners failing to collect their pets’ deposits, in Johnston Gardens, Dalmaik, on the railway line and down along the river. These complaints were from parents whose children had stood in it and from other dog walkers who were clearing up after their pets. Play area
The redevelopment of the play area at Johnston Gardens East has been recognised as a priority for some time and we are now able to move forward with this project. The current play equipment is now nearing the end of its useful life
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and plans are progressing for its removal. Proposals for how the site could look are being produced and will be available for viewing and discussion with the local community by the end of August. Once the preferred design has been agreed the order will be placed and depending on the weather we would aim to complete the project by the end of the year. Trimming hedges & trees
The final plea is with the wet and warm weather, shrubs and trees are sprouting vigorously onto pavements, sometimes making it difficult for pedestrians to pass by. We would just ask that owners trim back as appropriate. Marie Boulton Independent Councillor Lower Deeside
Tauqeer Malik Labour Councillor Lower Deeside From Councillor Boulton
Finally I think it is appropriate for me to explain my thinking with regard to Road Infrastructure, given the press reporting over the last few months. The Council has three major road projects approved at various stages, the AWPR, the Haudagain and the 3rd Don Crossing. The AWPR in my view, which has been informed from studying Transport Scotland’s documents, doesn’t provide the relief to congestion that we need and in fact in some locations, will create more Haudagain type issues. The main concerns I have with the schemes are: • The slip road from the North Deeside Road up to the junction at the back of Milltimber is too short and
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will cause tailbacks from the proposed traffic lights at Milltimber Brae and block traffic heading into Aberdeen. • The trumpet junction on the A90 heading up to the Altens Industrial Estate which is the most successful junction in Aberdeen is to be replaced with a diamond graded separated junction with traffic lights. • The roundabout at Dyce will be four lanes wide with seven sets of traffic lights. • The increase of traffic flow on the North Deeside Road coming from Culter is predicted to be over 4500 vehicles per day, an increase of around 47%. • The traffic on the Westhill Road between Westhills and the AWPR junction at Kingswells is predicted to increase by 43%. • There will be no improvement in congestion at the Bridge of Dee, initially they had hoped for a reduction of 5 cars in a 100 but with the approved planning applications, the situation is predicted to get worse than currently exists. • The predicted improvements at the Haudagain with all the schemes in place is half a car in a hundred. I would finish by saying I fully support road improvements and can understand why the public are frustrated and want to see something happen. I believe it is my duty to highlight the short comings of these projects because once they are built they can’t be undone and there will be no money to do anything else. There is no money allocated to make improvements on the roads network to improve the access to these new pieces of infrastructure. Aberdeen City Council requires £200m to bring our existing road network up to an acceptable standard, £30m to bring our pavements up to an acceptable standard, £15m for the 3rd Don Crossing, £5m for the link road from the AWPR junction at Dyce to the Airport and anything up to £150m to resolve the Bridge of Dee challenges and of course £75m for our contribution towards the AWPR. Tunnels and flyovers are viable on several of the schemes and this has been confirmed by experts, I haven’t just dropped in these suggestions without talking to the experts. Councillor Marie Boulton
News from Councillor Malone Stepped Down as Liberal Democrat Group Leader
F
ollowing some recent press coverage about a change in my role I received several ‘enjoy my retirement’ acknowledgements. However, I have not retired. I have simply stepped down as the Council’s Liberal Democrat Group Leader.
My reasons are as stated in the press. I wanted a little more time to myself. Don’t worry, I am still here to work for our area and to cover my still many (though now less) commitments for the Council. My commitments and committees can be found on the web page of the council under Councillor. Tree for Every Citizen : Commended
I am delighted that the ‘Tree for Every Citizen’ project on Tullos Hill, which started during my term as Convenor for Environment, has received a Highly Commended Award as Scotland’s Finest Wood awards. The trees were planted as part of the Woodland Trust’s Jubilee Woods. I am also pleased - but confused - that the then Labour opposition group, who at the time were totally against the project, have had a change of mind. You may remember the public outcry regarding the requirement for deer control to be carried out in the area and yet is still being carried out! On receiving the award the now Labour Vice Convenor stated that: “Tullos Hill Wood has once more been recognised on the national stage, which is testament to the hard work that went into creating this fantastic area. This ambitious project - part of the Council’s award-winning Tree for Every Citizen scheme-has gone a long way to achieving that and it is fantastic to see the hard work of everyone involved is continually being recognised.” Wonderful how politicians’ opinions change post election! Deeside Way
I wrote in the last issue that I was delighted with the improvements to The Deeside Way. I still am, but these improvements have created some unexpected issues. While the majority of users are respectful of others who use this
wonderful walk, I have received many complaints, particularly from walkers that some cyclists and horse riders are not being as considerate as they should. Can I ask ALL users of the Deeside line to be careful and considerate to others. This is a valuable asset on our doorstep that should be a joy to all. I would like to see ongoing improvements so that everyone can continue to benefit from this important green route in the area. Moving House
By the time you read this I will have moved house. I am not moving far, just round the corner. Please note my change of home telephone number below for contact purposes. Thank you. Getting things done
I am always keen to help to get things done for the benefit of our local community. Please contact me if you have any comments, suggestions or questions and I will do my best to protect and improve our local quality of life. I will always do my best to help. Councillor Aileen Malone Town House, Broad Street Aberdeen AB10 IFY Direct Dial: 01224 522356 Home: 01224 868690 amalone@aberdeencity.gov.uk
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Culter in Bloom
mentioned in the last Courier that we had decided to enter Peterculter for an award from Beautiful Scotland, this year. As I write, we are preparing for the assessment visit by the judges on Tuesday 30th July.
By the time you read this, you may know what we have achieved – but whatever the result, thanks are due to many people for the effort involved in making the village look superb on “Judgement Day”. CIB members, volunteers, businesses and residents alike all played their part. A special “thank you” is due to Aberdeen City Council staff who helped enormously with litter clearance, street cleaning, weeding, watering our hanging baskets and the administration of the tour. The judges assess us on three main criteria: Horticultural Achievement, Environmental Responsibility 7
and Community Support, and it’s no surprise to me that we usually score our highest marks in the last of these categories. A week before the visit, we were very concerned about under-watering of some containers on North Deeside Road during the long warm dry spell in July, as we depend on businesses and householders to attend to them, but a kindly reminder to a few people, followed by a lucky thunderstorm helped us out on the last lap! Judging apart, no-one could fail to notice the glorious splashes of colour on our streets as they walk or drive through the village this summer. Each year, Culter in Bloom members and volunteers plant up 26 large containers, 48 whisky barrels, 78 hanging baskets, the large raised bed at the eastern entrance and the “wee train”, along with other planters, troughs and railing boxes. Unfortunately we were not able to show the judges this year’s main project, the new feature at the western entrance, designed by local garden designer and lecturer Ian Anderson, but it should be at least partially complete by end August. The centrepiece is a stylized head of St Peter, as our community was first given its name when a church dedicated to the saint was built here in the 13th century. It’s made from overlapping steel plates, cut and treated using modern techniques common in today’s offshore oil and gas industry. It will be surrounded by Scottish native and ornamental plants, and the slopes around it will in due course be filled with bulbs in spring and wildflowers in summer. However, we may leave at least some of the planting until September when ground conditions will be more favourable. Watch this space! Erik Stien www.culterinbloom.org.uk
Erik Stien and Philippa Matthew with Beautiful Scotland judges Terry Stott and Gregor McGillivray on the day of their visit to Peterculter
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CULTER VILLAGE HALL
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s I write, the children have just enjoyed their first week of the summer holidays and the sun is continuing to shine. I hope that by the time you read this article, it wasn’t a one-off and we’ve all enjoyed a sunny summer! First Aid Training
Before the summer break, staff and members of the Hall Committee and Culter Theatre Club met for a one day intensive First Aid course run by St Andrew’s First Aid. By the end of the day, those involved had gained an HSC approved “First Aid in the Workplace” certificate. The hope is that, whatever group or event is being held in the Hall, there will always be a qualified First Aider nearby. Ladies Night
This was held on Friday 28 June. There had been a good response from ladies keen to sell their unwanted clothes and accessories, and with a variety of pampering treatments on offer, this should have been a great evening. However, there was a disappointing turnout on the day. This was very disheartening to the organisers, as a lot of hard work had gone into organising the evening. However, we will try again with something similar in the future.
The 200 Club
This is a really good way of showing your support for the Hall, whether you are a regular user of the hall, or an occasional one. Disappointingly, when the renewal date came round in June, we fell short of the 200 members we had hoped for. If you join now, membership is just £9. This entitles you to be included in the monthly draws from September until May 2014. If you already have a number, maybe you could consider buying a second one? Let’s get the remaining numbers sold so the next winner receives a cheque for £100! Culter Resilience Plan
There are details elsewhere in the Courier about this new organisation. The Village Hall is supporting the initiative and will help in any way it can. Upcoming events
The next Children’s Nearly New Sale will be held on Saturday 5 October from 10 - 12. We also hope to have a Cabaret Night in the autumn. Funds raised from this will go towards the long overdue repainting of the main hall. We would love to spruce it up before Panto time! Look out for posters around the village and check our Facebook page for details of these and other events. We need you!
The Village Hall can’t, and won’t, exist without your support. It receives no money from the Council. We are therefore keen to receive offers of help, particularly from tradesmen, to keep
Residents of Culter : Your chance to help your Village Hall Survive
Join our 200 Club Now!
Each month your allocated number will be entered into the draw. The winning number wins a cash prize of £100 (sum is based on 200 members in the Club) I wish to Join the 200 Club from September 2013 until May 2014. I enclose £9 per number required. NAME: ...........................................................................................TEL: ...................................... ADDRESS: ................................................................................................................................... .................................................................. EMAIL: ........................................................................ Amount enclosed £ ................ Signed: ........................................................................ An email address is preferable for us to keep in touch; however, a list of winners will be displayed in the Village Hall. Return to: Alison Skinner, Culter Village Hall, 178 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, AB14 0UD. Tel. Office: 01224 734371 Call for more details. Cheques payable to CDCA. 8
Theatre Club Panto 2013 Auditions Open Auditions for the
Wizard of Oz Panto
on Thursday 22nd August Tuesday 27th August Age 10 (Primary 6) to 16 at 7 - 8.30 pm Adults 8.30 - 10 pm
Culter Village Hall See www.cultertheatreclub.co.uk for more information
our maintenance costs down. We’d also welcome any suggestions for what you’d like to see happening in the Hall. It’s your hall, so let us know what we can do for you! Enquiries and bookings can be made via email. We have very competitive rates! You can also find us on Facebook.
thevillagehallculter@gmail.com
Culter theatre club
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t may be summer and the sun has been shining but it’s time to start preparations for this year’s panto! December 2013 will see us bring you The Wizard of Oz, The Panto.
fundraising this year. Our first fundraiser will be when we take over the Teas at the Heritage Centre on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 2 pm till 4 pm. There will not only be delicious home baking for your afternoon tea, but also some entertainment and games for the kids too. So please come down and support us. We are also hoping to have a joint fundraiser with Culter Village Hall in late September / early October, by bringing back our wonderful Cabaret Evening. Keep an eye out for details on the hall notice board or join our mailing list on our website www.cultertheatreclub.co.uk
CULTER COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP
As always, we are keen for new members and will be holding Open ummer term was very Auditions on Thursday 22 and busy at playgroup. We Thursday 27 August 7 pm Culter went to visit our friends at till 8.30 pm for ten to sixTheatre St Devenick’s playgroup teen year olds and from Club host at Bieldside. We all did 8.30 pm till 10 pm for Teas at the over sixteen years, on some junior Jazzercize both evenings. Heritage Hall then enjoyed a snack out th Parents should be in the garden. We had a Sat 7 Sept & aware that if your child th science lesson from one of Sun 8 Sept is in the Panto, we will the Mummies about wind 2 - 4 pm be requiring parental Entertainment and air, and went outside involvement! and blew giant bubbles and Games The Panto will run and little ones too! from the 4 to the 7 Decemfor kids ber 2013. Rehearsals will We ended term with our sumbe on Tuesday and Thursday mer picnic at Anguston Farm and then evenings (term time only), with had our Graduation on the last day. The a couple of Sundays nearer the show. children all got a medal they had made Please be sure you will be available before auditioning. Tickets will be on sale after the October holidays. Not interested in taking to the stage but would still like to get involved? No problem! There are loads of important off-stage roles too. No need to audition! We are looking for adults who would like to help with set design, set building, set painting, making props, costume design, costume making, Stage crewing and front of house. This year we are also undertaking to update our sound and lighting systems. We have raised half the money needed to do this, but unfortunately we were unsuccessful in our application for lottery funding for the other half. So that means we will need to do some
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themselves and their learning journals to take home; it’s amazing how much they come on in a year! We had a good year fundraising and would like to thank everyone who has supported playgroup. We hope you will continue to do so. It will be the Christmas Fayre time before we know it! The Playgroup, with the help of the Aberdeen City Council Woodland Ranger Service and the Community Service team, has been developing the wild area of the Ross Watt Community Garden to create an outdoor learning space. The idea it to keep it wild but have areas for building dens, climbing and balancing, making mud pies and messy play as well as sand pits and an outdoor story corner. Most of the work has been done but there are a few jobs that need doing in order to allow the area to be used by the community as well as during playgroup hours. In order to do this we need to barrow a lot of topsoil round to the garden, and this is where we are hoping YOU can help! We are looking for volunteers to come along with wheel barrows and a shovel on SATURDAY 24 AUGUST AT 10 am to help move the topsoil. If you are able to help please contact Jane on 732120 or Sheila on 733476. (See our advert on the back page of the Courier). We look forward to welcoming the new intake of children to playgroup and rising fives after the summer holiday. culterplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk
Playgroup’s Summer Picnic at Easter Anguston Farm
Organic Fruit and Vegetables Healthy Food and Drinks Gluten and Dairy-free Ranges Weigh-your-own herbs and spices Fresh baked Newton Dee Bread and Cakes Dr Hauschka and Weleda Body & Face Care Products Homeopathic Medicines Mon 12noon - 5pm
Newton Dee Store Old Ferry Road Bieldside AB15 9DX 01224 868609
Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm Sunday Closed
Culter Beavers, Cubs and Scout at the Daviot Summer Camp
www.newtondee.org.uk
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Culter Scouts Go Wild in Aberdeenshire !
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hile the Culter Scouts greatly appreciate the use of the Peterculter Church Hall, the summer term provided us with the opportunity to concentrate on outdoor activities. Culter Scouts are very fortunate to have Templars’ Park close by. Templars’ Park is a fabulous resource where the kids can run wild in a safe environment. Of course, Scouting is synonymous with camping. Aberdeen District Scouts held a training camp at the end of April. At these events new leaders learn the ropes before they are permitted to run their own events. You may have seen in the news that HRH The Duchess of Cambridge attended a similar training event in Cumbia. At the end of June, Culter Scouts held its biggest camp in many years at the Scout owned Daviot campsite near Inverurie. The site itself is set in nine acres of rough woodland within a short drive of Bennachie. Culter Scouts took over the entire campsite for a weekend with 72 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Leaders and Parent Helpers attending over the course of the camp. The Scouts were kept very busy working on skills that 10
build towards the Scout Outdoor Badge, including shelter building, camp cooking and survival skills. There was also time for crate climbing, archery and rope bridge building. Fundraising is another essential aspect of Scouting. After a fairly quiet year, we managed to cram in several activities in May and June. Many thanks to everyone who supported us at the Duck Race, our burger stall at the Gala and during our bag-pack at Sainsbury’s. While Culter Beavers are very proud of winning the Gala Best Float once again we feel the event needs to be re-invigorated. We would therefore like to challenge the other youth groups in Culter to have a go and try and beat us next year. If they think they are up to it ! Finally, Culter Scouts are always on the look-out for additional help. If you are interested in finding out what is involved in becoming a Scout Leader please do not hesitate to contact me. More leaders means more Scouts – we currently have a waiting list for Beavers and Cubs. Dave Keay Group Executive Chair 58th Aberdeen (Culter) Scouts
PETERCULTER PARISH CHURCH
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oung Church begins again from 25th August and all children from three years of age upwards are welcome to come along and take part in the activities. We also run a crèche for children under three. Saturday Coffees begin again on 7th September, when we will have tea,
coffee and home baking available every week. Thursday Coffees resume on 5th September, with a short Act of Worship taking place at 11.30 am. There will be a special Coffee Morning in aid of our partner church St Paul’s in Malawi on Saturday 14th September. We will be holding a MacMillan Coffee Morning on Friday 27th September from 10.00 am – 12 noon in the Large Church Hall. This is a very worthwhile event and I hope many people will be able to support it. Our Monthly Lunches begin again on Wednesday 4th September at 12.30 pm in the large hall. A two course lunch is on offer at the very good price of just £3.50. Again, this is open to everyone in the village – no church connection is required. Table Top Sales begin again on Saturday 7th September and will continue on the first Saturday of each month. Set up is from 9 – 10 am with items on sale from 10 am – 12 noon. If you would like to book a table contact the church office on 735845 or Jean Cook on 734233 or email secretary@culterkirk.co.uk The Friendship Club begins again on Tuesday 3rd September. The Club meets every second Tuesday and is keen to attract new members. You do not have to be a church member to come along. The Wednesday Club resumes on Wednesday 18th September at 2.00 pm. This is a club open to EVERYONE in the village and their friends. It aims to build friendships among local people by organising a programme of stimulating talks and activities to suit the broadest range of interests. It meets fortnightly in the Church Hall, North Deeside Road on Wednesday afternoons from 2 - 3.30 pm. Worship continues every Thursday at 11.30 am and Sunday at 10.30 am and all are welcome to join us. More details of all our events are on our web site at www.culterkirk. co.uk and also on Facebook and Twitter. These will also include full details of Adult Christian Education activities for the autumn. John Ferguson Minister Culter Kirk
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Culter Kirk Friendship Club
or the first time the Friendship Club will open its new Session in September. The Club is held on Tuesdays, starting at 7.30 pm, usually in the Small Hall.
Tuesday 3rd September:
Mr Colin Moffat will talk on “The Red Cross”. Tuesday 17th September:
Miss Julia Lewandowska is our guest speaker Tuesday 1st October:
Mr Murray Duncan talks about “The Deeside Railway Line”. Tuesday 15th October:
Mr Ross Grant speaks about “The Bethany Trust”. Tuesday 29th October:
yet to be confirmed. Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings. Only £1.50 per night to cover the cost of a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit.
The Wednesday Club
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he Wednesday Club resumes on Wednesday 18 September 2013 in Culter Parish Church with interesting fortnightly talks. Meetings start at 2.00 pm, except for the meeting on Wednesday 2 October which will start at 2.30 pm.
The annual membership fee is £10 plus a payment of £1 per meeting. Those wishing to take out Club Membership, please complete the form below and send to The Treasurer along with your remittance of £10. Membership is not
compulsory: we extend a warm welcome to visitors on a frequent/infrequent basis – visitors pay £2 per meeting. We will be entertained by musical quintet “Sounds Familiar” on our first meeting, followed by Barbara Hookey – “Mary’s Meals” on 2 October (2.30 pm start); Alice Brooks – “Over 50’s Activities” on 16 October and Neil Cooney – “The Fifties” on 30 October. Posters giving details of forthcoming speakers will be on display in the village. We look forward to your company. Tea/coffee and biscuits are served in the Small Hall after each meeting.
47th Aberdeen (Culter) Co. The Boys Brigade
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nce again we finished off the session with our Annual Open Night on the 16th of May. Family and friends of the boys got to see them participating in some of the activities that they take part in on a Thursday night, before the presentation of Promotion Certificates and major Trophies for all three sections.
After the session finished, our focus was on our Annual Summer Camp. This went ahead a week later than usual, due to the school holidays starting a week later than in previous years. We had a good squad of old boys and officers, nineteen in total, for the Advance weekend, which enabled us to get the canvas up in record time. There were a few hiccups on the Friday night when they attempted to put up our brand new marquee for the first time, but were successful on the 3rd attempt. It didn’t help that the main guy ropes were missing and one of the old ones they used snapped when they pulled it up! The marquee was only delivered they day before we
Send to: The Treasurer, The Wednesday Club, 45 Coronation Road Peterculter AB14 0RP : Membership Fee: £10 per annum Name: ____________________________________________ Tel: ______________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _________________________Post Code: _________________ 11
Auchterdeen Ltd Personal Support for your Personal Computer in Peterculter
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New—help with Mac or Windows D r o p o ff o r h o m e v i s i t
Contact Val Muir: 01224 735001 val.muir@auchterdeen.co.uk www.auchterdeen.co.uk
Public Speaking Accent Softening Confident Speaking Auditions, Job Interviews Presentation Skills Therapy
Donald Phillips
Voice and Speech Coach Phone: 07979
913323
d.phillips@dpspeechstudio.co.uk www.dpspeechstudio.co.uk c/o Camphill Wellbeing Trust St. John's, Murtle Estate Bieldside, Aberdeen AB15 9EP
went up to camp and we didn’t check it out beforehand. The weather this year was the best that anyone can remember and allowed us to do all the planned activities and more! This year we had eight Seniors (15+) up for their own time, which allowed all their tasks to assist in setting camp up to be finished quickly and give them time to do other things. They climbed Lochnagar on the Thursday night hoping to be able to see the sunrise on Friday morning but unfortunately it was cloudy. The rest of the younger boys came up on the Friday and on the Saturday they all had a day of activities organised by three 47th Old Boys - Mark Milne, Kenny Martin and Sean Malone. Mark took up his off-road buggy and they created a course round the field to test the boys on control and skill round and over various obstacles. They also built an assault course through the woods which further tested the boys (and Officers!). Many thanks to Mark, Kenny and Sean for their time and efforts in organising the day. The other main activity was Gorge Walking at Linn of Dee on the Tuesday where we saw the only rain during the 2 weeks of the camp. We also managed to climb the hill over the Dee for the camp for the first time in a few years and a dook in the Dee! A great time was had by all – hopefully we’ll get this weather more often. The new session of the Boys Brigade will start on the 29th of August. Details are as follows: Anchor Boys
ALAN J SANGSTER FAREVIEW GARAGE DRUMOAK
Boys in P1 to P3 at 6:30 – 7:30 pm in the Culter School canteen.
Servicing and Repairs to all makes of Vehicles. Latest Bosch Diagnostics. Tyres, Exhausts and Batteries Supplied and Fitted MOT's arranged. Car under Warranty? We can carry out Servicing at Fraction of Dealer Prices. MEMBER OF GOOD GARAGE SCHEME TEL: 01224 733662 MOB: 07976962465 ALL MAJOR DEBIT/ CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 1 mile from Peterculter Turn right at Garlogie Junction; we are next to JACKIESHILLOCK TRAINING CENTRE www.alanjsangster.com
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Junior Section
Boys in P4 to P6 at 6:30 to 8:00 pm in Culter School gymnasium. Company Section
Boys in P7 and above at 7:30 – 9:30 pm in Culter School canteen and then the gym. New members are welcome for all sections, although we may have to cap numbers in Anchor boys due to demand. There is a waiting list in operation so to add your son to the list, please contact me on: mikereid47@hotmail.com
1st Culter Guides
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ou may remember from the last copy of the Culter Courier, that we had a group of ten Guides that went to Hampden Park Stadium in Glasgow, to help Alzheimer’s Scotland complete the “Hampden Quilt Challenge”.
The sun was shining for us and there were over 500 handmade quilts from all over Scotland and the world. Former Aberdeen & Scotland Manager Craig Brown was there . He came over for a photograph when he heard we had travelled all the way down from Aberdeen. All the girls (and Leaders) had a brilliant day, something we will never forget. The Baden Powell Challenge is the highest award you can gain as a Guide. We have had eight Guides working on Craig Brown (former Aberdeen and Scotland Manager) wanted a photo with Culter Guides at Hampden Park!
this for just over a year. To gain this award, the girls have ten clauses to complete, this can be anything from starting a new hobby to taking part in a show or concert. The girls also went away to Inverness for a weekend with other Guides from all over the Grampian area to complete their challenge. It was a lot of hard work but all girls passed with flying colours. To finish our term for the summer, we headed to Templars for a cookout. During the campfire the girls were presented with their Baden Powell Challenge badges and certificates. To see these girls doing so well was an extremely proud moment for the Guiders. Well done to Jane Buchan, Chloe Falconer, Ceitidh Robertson, Bethany Bruce, Anna Scott, Catherine Christie, Lindsey Brown and Mhairi McKay. Also during the night at Templars, we had six girls taking their promise to become Guides. I also handed out fifty two badges to the guides. A very impressive 33 out of 34 girls had completed at least one badge this term. Well done girls! See you in the new term. culterguides@hotmail.co.uk
suffered amenity damage during logging operations. CCC will engage with Forestry Commission Scotland towards better preservation of amenity value during woodland commercial operations including pathway reinstatement after thinning and extraction. If you have views to contribute on local woodland management please let CCC know about these. We are at a period of maximum growth and keeping paths open and safe at such times can be problematic. Narrowing by overgrowth is a common hazard without regular cutting. Users take care, particularly on river bank areas which have been undermined and are awaiting maintenance. I end with a request that cyclists using our paths do so with care especially for our elderly, those with special needs and animals. Cyclists often cannot be heard and approach quickly. Special needs must be anticipated on shared facilities, use of which is a privilege and not a right. DJW
OUT & ABOUT
Big Step Forward in Attempt to Acquire Community Woodland
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alking in Maryculter Woods last month I came across notices advising that a local woodland trust was seeking support to buy a tract of woodland and preserve its trails and amenity features for community use. With outstanding wild beauty, good walks and views, a healthy burn, varied natural flora and fauna, riding trails and the like, the initiative is worthy of support. (See next article.) Further stimulation arrived a few days afterwards with a request from Forestry Commission Scotland for review of the Aberdeen Wood Plan. Input from local communities is requested particularly in the areas of creative measures for health and well being, coherent landscape design and environmental and ecological improvement of land management. Woods in the plan in our area include Maryculter, Newmill Hill, Leuchar Moss, Drum, Collonach, Baads and Wester Ord most of which have
Dog Walking & Pet Sitting Service If your Pet is a V.I.P to you They are a V.I.P. to me too! Tel. Loraine: 01224 734139 or 078 75 542 284
Lady Friday Services that can be provided by calling
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Curtains & Pelmets Made to Measure or Alterations Corsages or Buttonholes Ironing with Delivery & Collection Service
Maryculter Woods
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he residents of Maryculter have voted overwhelmingly in favour of attempting to acquire 67 hectares of woodland in Maryculter from Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS). In total, 491 residents (70% of the community) voted in the community ballot held in May and 98% of the votes cast were in favour of the acquisition.
The woodland is adjacent to the Kirkton of Maryculter and is well-used by locals, including the Redwing Riding School, the Maryculter Scouts and Cub Scouts and Driving for the Disabled. Acquisition by the community will ensure that we can manage the wood for the benefit of the local community, the wider public and wildlife. The organisation created by the community (The Maryculter Woodlands Trust), has now submitted a formal application to FCS under the National Forest Land Scheme (built on Community Right to Buy legislation). The application can be viewed at: www.forestry.gov.uk/website/forestry. nsf/byunique/INFD-99AKKV. We hope 13
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Airyhall Community Centre Contact John on 01224 582491 email: jymcl11@gmail.com
Grace Cranna
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Kirkton of Maryculter Woods: View of the valley of the Crynoch Burn, with Milltimber in the far distance. to hear in late autumn if our application has been approved. The MWT will then start the hard work of raising the funds needed to purchase and manage the wood. We would like to thank everyone for their support so far, notably the local residents, the North Kincardine Rural Community Council, Culter Community Council, our MP, MSPs, Councillors, Culter Primary School, Lairhillock School, Maryculter Scout Group, Driving for the Disabled, Storybook Glen and the River Dee Trust. If you would like to be kept informed or get involved in any way you can find more information on our website www.maryculterwoods.com or call 734224. Ed Thorogood Chairman Maryculter Woodlands Trust (Charitable status pending)
Congratulations are also due to eight of our youngsters who successfully completed their Access 2 and 3 qualifications - now possible because Camphill School has become an SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) Centre - and to the one youngster who sat his Standard Grade exams in English and Maths. Congratulations also to those who have gained medals at the National Swimming Gala. However, these formally recognised successes must be seen within the context of all the many small successes and miracles that occur on a daily basis in an almost unnoticeable way by the ‘unsung’ children and young people of the School. Our congratulations go to them too. In between the above, the Eco Committee arranged another litter picking day along the Deeside old railway line, collecting 10.5 kg of rubbish along the Camphill School way, and we enjoyed a Summer Fayre his has been the term of the which coincided with the opening of the recycled plastic bottle ‘greenhouse’ on a Duke of Edinburgh Award glorious summer’s day. scheme with eight youngsters While in congratulating mode, gaining their Silver Award congratulations to the six coand seventeen embarking Camphill workers who earlier this week graduated with a BA in Social on the Bronze. School To achieve their Silver Open Day Pedagogy from Aberdeen University. Award, the youngsters needed This term, we have reto walk 16 miles over three days Saturday ceived two very different and two nights, carrying their st 21 kinds of donations: £29,000 full and heavy rucksacks through September from the Wooden Spoon the Scottish Highlands around Charity towards the cost of Glen Tanar. This is an excep2 - 5 pm the new changing room for the tional achievement by a group swimming pool and £3,000 of youngsters with ‘additional Camphill from a group of three school support needs’. Fuelled by this, Estate girls from Meldrum Academy their young peers took to the who won their section of the Milltimber hills a few weeks later and they Young Philanthropist Initiaall completed their Bronze overtive. Their prize money will go towards night walk; they still have more to do to supporting the Nature Nurture work, complete their award, nonetheless many the horse riding school and the sensory congratulations to them all.
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garden on Camphill Estate. Our sincere thanks go to them. Finally please be invited to the Camphill Annual Open Day: Saturday 21st September: 2 - 5pm, Camphill Estate, Milltimber. Laurence Alfred
CULTER MILLS SOCIAL CLUB Redevelopment Update
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Launch Party for the new look Club is being held in September. It would be great to see as many members, family and friends on the day/ evening. We are currently planning the entertainment and more details, and a firm date, will be provided in our new Facebook page which you will find at www.facebook.com/ cultermillclub. We will post events and photos on a regular basis so make sure you ‘like’ our page. It would be great if you could use our page to tell us of any bands/events you would like the Club to host. Details of the Launch Party and other events will also be listed on the club web site. Now is a good time to join, as we are offering up to 15 months membership for the cost of 12, for new member applications received during the last quarter of the year. Our attractive facilities are the ideal venue for that Special Occasion, Birthday Celebration, Weddings, Anniversaries, Ceilidhs etc, or as a meeting place for your group, so come and see for yourselves, all enquiries welcome.
Entertainment in the Hall
• 8 pm (Entry £2.50 at the door) • 9 August : Music with Sandy Davidson & Eddie Corbet • 13 September: Music with Travelin Band • 5 October : Music with Helen & Hughie • 9 November : Music with Phil Sinclair Disco • 7 December: Music with Moonshine
WEEKLY Sunday Bingo
• 23 August : Prize Bingo at 7.30 pm • 6 December : Prize Bingo at 7.30 pm
Tea Dances
Fortnightly Thursdays from 1.30 to 4 pm • 8 August : Recorded music • 22 August : Music by Charlie Esson • 5 September : Recorded music, • 19 September : Recorded music • 3 October : Music by Charlie Esson • 17 October : Recorded music • 31 October : Recorded music • 14 November : Recorded music • 28 November : Recorded music. Saturday Night Dances
8 to 11.30 pm. Entry charge includes tea/coffee and biscuits. • 31 August : Music by Johnny Duncan • 21 Sept : Music by George Rennie • 19 October : Music by George Rennie • 30 Nov : Music by Johnny Duncan. “Busy Fingers” Craft Club
The Club meets every second Thursday 1 to 4 pm in the Lounge. Dates are from 1 August onwards. Projects worked on include knitting, tapestry, jewellery, crochet, cardmaking and water colour painting. If you would enjoy an afternoon of friendship and laughter please come and join us with your craft work.
Scott Gilmour OptOmetrists • • • • •
telephone 01224 863344 www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk
St. Peter’s Heritage Trust
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he Trust Committee do hope that you have visited the Heritage Centre and viewed this year’s exhibition. There have been many favourable comments from those who have visited and the many visitors are always amazed at the quality of our exhibits - all put in place by volunteers. Occasionally, people will come looking for information on Culter and it is always satisfying to be able to help.
The Centre is open each Sunday, Wednesday and Saturday from 2 – 4 pm; the Centre closes for the season on 27 October, so try and come down and see the Centre before then! The Afternoon Teas on Saturdays and Sundays in the Heritage Hall have been well supported over the last few months and our thanks to the volunteers who provide and serve the great home baking. If you would like to help, please contact Sheila Grant on 732653. The Heritage Garden is giving much pleasure to many people, particularly during the warm summer months. The Social Committee are holding two events. The first one is on Friday 27 September at 2.00 pm, when Bill
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eye examinations - paid by NHs for all Contact Lenses - all types Glaucoma screening Digital retinal photography Home Visits
5 the Courtyard, North Deeside road Cults, Aberdeen AB14 9sD
To check out dates and the activities available for members and guests please see the Club Web Site www.culterclub.co.uk or Facebook page www.facebook.com/cultermillclub New Members Welcome
Bespoke eyewear: frames tailor-made to your facial measurements from tOm DAVies Designer sunglasses from: • GuCCi • Dior • ray-Ban • ChaneL • • GiorGio armani • maui Jim •
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Grampian Decorative and Fine Arts Society 2013 - 2014 Programme The new GDFAS season, starting on September 11, offers a cornucopia of enthralling and varied lectures. We warmly welcome back all existing members and would be delighted to see visitors who, having come once, won’t be able to resist coming back for more. Please join us for a glass of wine or a soft drink at 6.45, prior to the lecture, which begins at 7.30. Visitors are requested to make a £5 donation. 2013 September 11 October 9 November 13 December 4 2014 January 8 February 12 March 12 April 9 May 14 June 11
Joaquin Sorolla : Painter of Sunlight Portrait of a Nation : Re-inventing the Scottish National Portrait Gallery AGM followed by: The Genius of Antonio Stradivari Deck the Hall : Yultide Customs and Traditions
Tales of a Mysterious Land : Landscapes, Legends and Archaeology of Ethiopia Here be Dragons : Medieval Monsters Music and Instruments of the 16th – 18th centuries Out of the Blue : The Story of Blue in Art Fund Raiser followed by: On the China Trail – The Precious Journey A Child of Six could do it! Cartoonists on Modern Art
The venue is Robert Gordon’s University, The Faculty of Health & Social Care, Garthdee Road. From the Bridge of Dee, take the first left out of the roundabout along Garthdee Road. At the second set of lights after Sainsbury’s turn left on to the RGU campus. For more information please ring Alison on 01224 869639 or Thyra on 01224 481278 or check the GDFAS website.
The Oven Valet Oven Cleaners
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Burnett will speak on “Education - My part in its downfall!” This is a most entertaining talk. Then, on Friday 18 October at 1.30 pm there is a Prize Bingo Session. The Heritage Hall is available for let and there are a number of daytime and evening slots currently free. The Hall is also available for children’s and private parties. If you need more information, contact John Troup on 732701. Finally, if you have anything that you could consider would be of interest to the Heritage Centre, please make contact with us. The Heritage Centre is all about Culter: past, present and future and the Committee do value your support in maintaining and developing our Heritage Centre.
Visit www.culter.net
CULTER HILLWALKING CLUB
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eat! It has been some years since we have walked in such unrelenting heat, and, of course, we are doing our best to enjoy the sensation of wearing less, carrying less and smothering ourselves in suncream... The northeast ridge of Lochnagar was very hot indeed, although the corrie with the invitingly blue waters of Loch Nagar itself was deliciously cool. The Cairngorm plateau walks, where we took on Derry Cairngorm, Ben Mheadhoin, Ben Macdui, Cairngorm and Braeriach, were tackled in extreme heat, with the Ranger Service begging walkers to carry lots of liquid and drink from any stream outside the ski area. However, all good things come to an end, and we will brace ourselves for a return to more usual Scottish conditions any time soon, cool and damp and windy: wonderful! In September, we look forward to a pleasant stroll up Ben Earb, Glenshee, a trip to Glen Esk for lesser-known summit West Knock, and a weekend away to Invermoriston. We walk on the first Sunday of the month and the middle Monday of the month. More information is on our website www.culterhillwalking.org.uk or contact Secretary Della Russell on 01330 820376.
Peterculter Medical Practice Online Appointment Booking
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e are continuing our work to further develop our Practice website at www.petercultermedicalpractice.co.uk
Please go online and have a look at it, there is plenty of useful information on such topics as the Practice Services and Staff, how to make best use of our various services, and useful sections on health-related topics such as immunisations and self care. One of our newest developments is the trying out of online appointment booking. This will be for Doctor appointments only at present. If you may be interested in this, then you must submit an application form to the Practice (along with ID) and we will assess your request – the application forms are available on the website (and need to be printed) or from Reception. Please note the ‘Conditions of Use’ section detailed on the website if you are intending to apply for this. Any feedback about our website would be much appreciated as we strive to make this as useful as possible. Immunisations
There are some changes afoot to national immunisation schedules this year and you will be hearing more about this through media and Public Health channels. New issues include a Rotavirus vaccine for infants (protecting against a common unpleasant gastroenteritis bug), emphasis on enhancing measles protection with a MMR catch-up campaign and an anti-shingles vaccine for the elderly. Finally, the practice welcomes Mrs Rebecca Stocks, who is new to the Reception team. Best wishes Dr Douglas Harris
Don’t forget to tell advertisers you saw their advert in the Culter Courier!
Culter Bo-peeps & Toddlers
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e have had another super year. BoPeeps & Toddlers is on every Monday, Tuesday & Friday from 9.30 - 11.30 am in Culter Village Hall. Monday’s session at £3.70 includes more structured activities such as craft, painting, playdough & puzzles whilst Friday’s session at £2.60 is a time for the wee ones to have more free play. Snack for the kids & hot drink & biscuit for their adult are available at all sessions. Bo-Peeps
The Peep Group during the Tuesday session has been running since April. Peep stands for “Parents as Early Education Partners” and is a group that recognises that parents & carers are children’s first and most important educators. It aims to support adults to give their children a flying start to life. The Peep project is funded by Aberdeen City Council and is delivered by trained practitioners with a session lasting about an hour with the remaining time for little ones to run wild! The group is running well, although we’ve all taken a wee while to get used to the new format and decide on the best way to deliver the sessions to everyone. I attended PEEP training back in April, which gave me lots of new ideas and was also good to swap ideas and stories with other child-care workers from all over the city. It would be great to see more coming along and the group starts back again on Tues 20 August 2013 at 9.30 am. Kid’s Nearly New Sale
Our next Kid’s Nearly New Sale is on Sat 5 October 10 am -12 pm in Culter Village Hall. Numbers will be allocated from the 20 August. For a Sellers number, please contact me at the details at the end of the article. We are on Facebook under Culter BoPeep & Toddlers, (spelt as written). Look us up and see pictures of what goes on there. If anyone would like information on anything mentioned in the article please e-mail fiona@seajays.org.uk or Tel: 07775 955250. Fiona Jones (Play Worker) 17
CULTER YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB Presentation Night
To a packed evening, the club recognised all players for the efforts this past season along with celebrating each team’s Player of the year. Furthermore long service awards were given out to 17 players & coaches who have been with the club for over 10 years. This evening is very much the climax of all the teams hard work over the year with U16s Boys, U16’s Colts & U13’s Colts deserving special recognition for winning silverware- U16’s Boys (3 cups) & U16’s Colts (1 cup) ensuring a clean sweep of Cup competitions at their age group. U13’s Colts went undefeated in winning the B League and progressed the furthest in the Scottish Cup of any club in the ADJFA. New Teams
2013 has brought two new teams at 2001 age group and 2003 and we wish both teams success. New Coaches Required
We are always looking to expand our coaching staff and would appeal to all those interested who may be keen to get further involved – all the teams have coaches in place but sharing the load & new idea’s/approach are always welcomed. Please get in touch if who want to help out more… Football Development Officers
Football Development Officers are a big part of the progression of the club and these roles are overseeing a range of age groups to give guidance and share expertise – with these roles the club would be keen to invite currently qualified coaches who perhaps have been through the SYFA coaching process but have ‘hung up their boots’. Please get in touch if you want to discuss this role further…. New Players
The club has a healthy interest from new players wanting to join the club and all teams would welcome new players so please contact us to find out what we can offer…
Fundraising
DOG WALKER & Pet Sitting Services Proper Woodland Walks Young and Old On or Off the Lead All needs met Milltimber based Dog and small caged animal boarding and home visits Dog and Cat sitting Transport to Vet
Contact Jane 01224 734404 07739 313084
PilateS ClaSSeS PeterCulter SPortS Centre
Monday & Tuesday afternoons Tuesday & Thursday evenings
The club is seeking to set up a new fund raising committee to be led by parents not directly involved in running of teams and would like to use this opportunity to appeal to parents who have experience or the energy to help run this part of the club…..The club want to develop a more family feel to the club and see this as a way of fund raising idea’s that would appeal to a broader range of the parents whose child is part of the club. Our fund raising dinner will be communicated out shortly but would be keen to have new volunteers involved now to help shape this type of event in the future. Club Contact Details: Paul Stein on 07860378219 culteryouthfc@gmail.com
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library
ibrary services in Aberdeen can be accessed, more ways than ever before, 24 hours a day.
Wednesday evenings
Library members can check the catalogue, make reservations and renew items using the online catalogue at
CultS ChurCh
www.capitadiscovery.co.uk/aberdeencity/
Friday mornings
Make and share wishlists and rate the books you love or dislike. Or, if you don’t have a computer to hand, try the new 24/7 Telephone Line: dial 08456 080937 or 01506 420526. From here, you can find opening hours, check your account and renew items. And, you can do all this and more by downloading the library app on to your smartphone or tablet from your app store and search for Aberdeen City Libraries. The app can be used to access the Digital Library to download an ebook or look something up in one of the other online resources available. Keep in touch by ‘liking’ Aberdeen City Libraries Facebook page, tweeting @AberdeenCC or by emailing centrallibrary@aberdeencity.gov.uk The website still has all the information on it at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/Library/ and local libraries can be telephoned during usual opening hours. Library users will need their library card number and a PIN to make
CamPhill SChool milltimber
Solveig Dahle Smith Certified Pilates Instructor MAPPI Retired physiotherapist MCSP
Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421
Culter
curry house “Best Indian Takeaway in N.E. Scotland” 27 School Road Peterculter Telephone 01224 735431 01224 735439 Open Six Days Tuesday to Sunday 5pm to 11pm
Home Delivery Service Available (minimum charge)
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the most of the 24/7 services. Joining is easy – you can complete a joining form or request a PIN online, or go along to any Aberdeen City Library and ask a member of staff for help. Remember to take some ID on your first visit to the library. Aberdeen City Council’s Convener of Education, Culture and Sport Committee, Councillor Jenny Laing said: “We want to encourage people to utilise the library service and with so many people leading such busy lives this app and 24 hour telephone line mean people can access the City’s Library service at a time that is convenient for them. Whether it is to reserve a book, check opening times or renew an item the service is only a phone call or click away.”
Culter 50+ Walking Group
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ur walks in recent months have taken us to some scenic and historically interesting places in both the local area and a little further afield. Fortunately the weather was kind to us and it was really good to have 15-20 members on each walk.
We have enjoyed several walks that were new to us, including The Finzean Estate, Balmoral Cairns , The McRobert family estate at Tarland and a woodland walk at Garlogie. A different club member led each of these walks and it was a real pleasure to learn about the history of the area. The group would like to thank these walk leaders for researching the walks and passing on so much information to us. Following the walk at Garlogie we all had an excellent summer lunch at Garlogie Inn. Every one enjoyed the meal and spending time chatting to each other especially some old members of the group who joined us for this special event in our calendar. On our next walk we shall return to an old favourite at Loch Kinnord near Aboyne. The scenery here is magnificent and we always enjoy visiting this part of Deeside. Sheila Jones
City Warden Report
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he City Wardens hope everyone has enjoyed the hot spell during the summer period this year.
CULTER AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
CULTER FLOWER SHOW
We would like to remind everyone that the children will be returning to the Primary School at the end of August this year. With this in mind we would like to remind motorists to watch their speed throughout the village but especially around the school. City Wardens will be at the school as often as possible to ensure the safety of pupils arriving/ leaving the school and to ensure that vehicles are not being parked on the yellow Zig-Zags as this can obstruct other motorists views of children trying to cross further down the street. You can get in touch with the Senior City Warden Mark Wilson to discuss any community concerns, by telephone 01224 871953 or email MarkWilson@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Saturday 17th August 2013 2 pm to 4 pm Culter Village Hall Doors Open 1.45 pm Presentation of Prizes 2 pm Sale of Produce 3.45 pm Tea/Coffee and Homebaking included in entry fee
EVERYONE WELCOME
where possible home chemotherapy and invaluable support to all the family. The Archie Foundation, a charity based at the Aberdeen Children’s hospital, who amongst other things provide all the “boredom busters” who make long Sarah’ s Bright Ride stays in hospital much easier to tolerarah Wiseman is a Primary ate. The Little Princess Trust provide 6 pupil at Culter School. makeovers for girls who have cancer and leukaemia. Just four days before It was an inspiring event Christmas in 2012, and it also gave us the opportuwhen Sarah was nity to thank all our friends for ten years old, she all the support they have given was diagnosed with us over these past few difficult Acute Lymphoblastic months. Leukaemia. A picnic in the spring sunshine at the Glebe rounded off Christmas Day was the day. spent in hospital and just after she opened her presents To date we have raised she started on a seven month over £12,520. Keep you eyes course of intensive chemopeeled, Sarah has plenty more therapy. Treatment will last “bright ideas” to come. for two years in total and Sarah on her Bright Isla Wiseman despite a rigorous regime of Ride in April 01224 646 353 treatment, Sarah maintains a
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great sense of humour and zest for life and a love of brightly coloured clothes, hence the name Bright Ride! On Sunday 28th April, Sarah and her sister Kirsty and fifty of their friends from school, Brownies, Young Church and Kippie Lodge, embarked upon a Sponsored Bike Ride from The Heritage Hall to Allan Park in Cults and back, to raise money for three of the Charities that have helped Sarah the most throughout this journey through leukaemia so far. They are Clic Sargent who provide home blood testing and
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
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bsafe, which sends out the Weekly Police Bulletin for Aberdeen North, South, and Central now has its own Alerts system. Co-ordinators and Watch members should go to www.absafe.org.uk to join. By registering you will receive relevant crime prevention messages as 19
they come in. To join or start a watch contact Ross at the details below. You can also be a Volunteer at Absafe, helping with the admin or starting new Watches. Absafe Neighbourhood Watch serves the whole of Grampian, encouraging all kinds of Watch schemes - for Farms, Rural, Business, Harbour and others. Come and join us ! ross@absafe.org.uk
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Culter Football Club
ulter FC had an excellent season, winning two Trophies and once again were the leading Junior Football team in the North of Scotland. We won the PMAC North Super League Championship for the 6th time in ten years (this time by a record 10 points). Culter FC also won the McLeman Trophy at Pittodrie Stadium on the 9th May by beating FC Stoneywood 3-1. Jamie McAllister (2) and Adam Wilson (1) scored the goals to win the Trophy. I would like to thank the Culter FC supporters for turning up in large numbers and giving the team excellent vocal support! It was a long and hard season and the players and management team did the club proud with their commitment throughout the season.
At the end of the season, at the Club Awards/Casino Night, Jamie McAllister was awarded the “Larry Barclay Player of the Year” and Supporters Player of the Year. Jamie was also awarded the “North Regional Junior Player of the Year” as he scored an amazing 75 goals last season, which is a new club record. Mario DiMaio was awarded the “Dick Brown Memorial Trophy” for his services to Culter FC throughout the season.
www.culterfc.co.uk for further details. The Hospitality Suite/ Committee Room at Crombie Park is operational for pre-match sponsors and supporters. The Culter FC website also keeps the supporters updated about all matters regarding Culter FC. We welcome everyone to visit Crombie Park to watch and support Culter FC in season 2013-2014. Gordon Thomson Culter FC President
Players Pool
Our long serving players, Colin Craik and Hugh “Shuggy” Robertson, have decided to retire. John Farquhar and Ross McWilliam have also decided that they are unavailable for next season. Martin Crisp (ex Lewis Utd) has been signed, the football management team are continuing to look for other potential players for next season. Season 2013-2014
The first game of the season is against Hermes on Tuesday 6th August at Crombie Park. As the club won the North Super League last year, we have qualified for the Scottish Cup. This tie will be played on the 14th September. The draw for the 1st Round Scottish Cup will be done in a couple of weeks. Celebrity Dinner
The Culter FC Celebrity Dinner XXV111 will be held at Menzies Hotel, Dyce on the 8th November. More detailed info will be distributed in the next few weeks. Sponsorship Package
There are numerous sponsorship packages available, ie: Season Tickets, Match Sponsors and Pitch Advertising boards. Please check the Culter FC website:
Cocoa Ooze News
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ere is the initial press release that went out in June, about Culter’s very own chocolate shop, run by Jamie Hutcheon, who has recently won the title of Emerging Entreprenuer of the Year at the Grampian Business Awards for Business Excellence:
“CHOCOLATIER INVESTS MORE THAN £50,000 IN CITY CENTRE PREMISES Aberdeen-based chocolatier, Cocoa Ooze, is to invest more than £50,000 in new premises as it launches its second shop dedicated to all things chocolate. Jamie Hutcheon, Managing Director and owner of the firm, received the keys to the Belmont Street property today, just off the city’s Union Street. The building will be refurbished and kitted out with a cafe, chocolate shop, chocolate-making workshop space, a production area and back offices. Jamie said he was excited to be opening his second outlet following the
success of his Peterculter store. The 22-year-old said: “I am delighted to be opening a second store as we continue to build on the popularity the produce has seen in and around Aberdeen, and beyond. “The new store will become our new headquarters which will mean the recruitment of eight new members of staff. We have also invested in a new chocolate tempering machine worth £25,000, to increase work capacity.” The new store, which will be on three levels, will open mid-July and the cheeky chocolatier has a few treats up his sleeve for the opening day. Jamie added: “We have a few surprises for the day of the launch including competitions and bespoke chocolates but all will be revealed on the day.” Jamie established Cocoa Ooze in 2008 at the tender age of 17, making him one of the youngest entrepreneurs in Scotland at the time. Initially working from his house, Jamie then opened his Peterculter shop in 2011, offering chocolate gifts for the local consumer, wedding and corporate markets. His portfolio of products has grown significantly and is now available throughout Scotland – ranging from chocolate bars and truffles of different varieties .including ginger, chilli and honeycomb. To find out more about the Cocoa Ooze corporate workshops, and other product and service offerings, as well as to shop online, visit www.cocoa-ooze.co.uk Telephone 01224 467212 New Aberdeen Shop: 24/28 Belmont Street Aberdeen, AB10 1JH ”
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Golf Course
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P E T C A R E - W I T H A H E A RT O F G O L D ! 20
107 (Aberdeen) Squadron Air Cadets
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he Squadron has been extremely busy in recent months and some of the activities the cadets took part in are listed below: • The Fire Service gave a presentation and let cadets try out various pieces of equipment. • Cadets have been selected for gliding experience flights in our Vigilant gliders. • Weapons training and target shooting sessions have been run. • We had monthly sports evenings. • We won several medals in the inter squadron Athletics Competition. • Both Practice and Qualifying expeditions for the Duke of Edinburgh Award took place. • Cadets have attended Adventure Training and RAF station camps. • We had a combined Annual Awards evening and summer BBQ. • We took part in the Wing Field Day inter-squadron Drill and Aircraft Recognition Competitions. • Sixteen cadets marched down Union Street in the Armed Forces Day Parade. • There have been several Radio training sessions and events where we have been communicating with cadets from other parts of the UK.
• Cadets have been sitting their Classification exams in subjects such as Principles of Flight and Basic Navigation • Two radio controlled “Rampaging Chariots” were constructed. • Fourteen cadets completed the Youth First Aid course. • A fellow cadet from 75 (Arawa) Squadron in New Zealand visited us. • Cadets are progressing towards their Saltire (volunteering) and John Muir Trust (environmental) awards. 107 (Aberdeen) Squadron is looking for 13 to 14 year olds who have an interest in Aviation, Sports and Adventure or just making new friends and learning the valuable life skills sought by employers. We are based at the Prince Charles Cadet Centre, Off Albury Road, Ferryhill. For more information, please visit www.107aircadets.org
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Alfie’s Trust
n April this year Alfie’s Trust took part in Run Balmoral. An amazing 213 people rose to the challenge taking part in various races throughout the day, including 52 children - all pledging to raise money for the Charity.
It was a fantastic day, with the atmosphere lending emotion to the sight of so many Alfie’s Trust T-shirts. We are hugely grateful to all the runners, their supporters, Apex Tubulars and Run Balmoral for working together to raise awareness and funds for Alfie’s Trust. Three months on, and we finally have a total which has more than exceeded what we set out to achieve - £28,000 was raised. This money will make a huge difference to research and patient support. Team Golf Event
On the 21 September 2013, at the Paul Lawrie Golf Centre on South Deeside Road, we will hold our first
Alfie’s Team - All 213 of them!
Our friendly and professional team offers all top quality hair services 10% Discount for OAPs on all services Gift Vouchers available
Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
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We would like to welcome Kelly to the salon, who offers Acrylic, Gel and Minx nails
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Charity Golf Event. We are looking for 12 teams of 4, which can include adults and children. Entry Fee will be £10 per adult/£7.50 per child, with a rolling start from 10 am. Please contact us to secure your place. Annual Tea and Coffee Afternoon
This will be held on Saturday 26 October, at Peterculter Parish Church, between 2 – 4 pm. Delicious Home Bakes will be served alongside your tea and coffee and a craft stall for any early Christmas shoppers. We look forward to seeing you there. Contact tracy@alfiemilne.org.uk or call 07765 408101. Thank you for your continued support. Tracy and Mark Milne
Kelly’s Bakery
Tea Room & Gallery The ideal place to meet and greet friends for Morning Coffee or Afternoon Tea Now Exhibiting Local Artists 257 North Deeside Road, Peterculter Telephone: 733100
Brian Smith Ltd. Funeral Services
SciSSorS Palace Professional Hairdressing
by Fiona and Elaine Free Conditioning Treatment Joico Products New clients 10% discount
01224 863696
The Basement, 331 North Deeside Rd, Cults
The only privately run family-owned Funeral Director in Peterculter, Banchory and Aboyne Pre-Paid Funeral Plans
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Brian or Angela Smith (24 hours) 22
The Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside
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e welcomed President Mike in July, with the theme for this year remaining as Fun, Fellowship, Fundraising, Foundation. Membership is increasing and this vibrant Club is committed to supporting a variety of groups and organisations in the local and international community. May saw members turn out in force to help ‘shopkeeper’ Robert Bell from Culter. The club had been collecting unwanted, unloved goods for six months, so there was plenty stock for their annual ‘Love Me Again’ pop up shop in George Street. This raised over £2,700 for local causes. The verdict: hard work, great fun, much merriment and many bargains to be had! The Club hosted a fabulous 10th Art Evening in The Marcliffe with very special guest, Toby Veale of Cults Academy representing Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, Scotland. Over 300 guests were treated to an evening of art and entertainment with local artist Michael Samson www.michaelsamson.co.uk Michael created two original works which were auctioned at the end of the evening by Tom Epps, who kindly donated his time and considerable talent. Due to the extraordinary efforts of these gents, the evening raised over £8,000 for Scottish charities.
This summer, Rotarians assisted at Culter Gala and Culter in Bloom and have been building goat mounds at Easter Anguston Farm for the very popular goats. The Club aims to continue building links with Easter Anguston and providing hands-on help in the local community during the year. A visit to Fasque House, near Fettercairn, was entertaining and informative. Members and their guests enjoyed wonderful hospitality and this was a memorable end to an excellent Rotary year. Dates for your Diary
Autumn Quiz @ The Cults Hotel on Friday 4 October, 7 pm. Details are on the website and an open invitation is extended to anyone who would like to bring themselves or a team (up to 4 people) and pit their wits against our quiz masters extraordinaire. Join us for an evening of banter, supper and surprises and help raise funds for local charities. If you are interested in finding out more or visiting the Club, please contact: Quentin 07764 939752 qtweedie@btconnect.com Mike - 07771 576012 m.rodgers@talktalk.net or visit the website www.aberdeendeesiderotary.org.uk
Cults Cricket Club
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he 2013 Season is rapidly coming to a close and by the time you read this article most of the League and Cup competitions will have been decided.
Our Grade 1 Side has reached the Aberdeenshire Cup Final and the Turriff Cup Finals Day and are sitting in a creditable third place in the League. Some iffy league form has not helped this year, but playing well in Cup Competitions. The Grade 2 Side are propping up their League and have not enjoyed any great fortune this year. With League reorganisation at the end of the season, and three teams due to be relegated to Grade 3, it does not look good. It is not down to lack of effort or enthusiasm, just that results have just not gone their way.
08454 242424 Tracey Wilson Practice Manager
Allan Park
The Club has been instrumental in the setting up of the Friends of the Allan Park. This group will try and help address the sad decline and neglect of the Allan Park. Successive Councils have cut back the Parks budget to such a degree that maintenance is almost non existent. If you wish to help the Club or the Friends in any way please contact Ian Sutherland on: 01224 742833 07815637407 thesutherlandfamily@btinternet.com
Cults Medical Group
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ith the pollen count being so high this summer, many of you will be suffering from hayfever. NHS24 (08454 242424) or our local pharmacies can offer excellent advice and provide over the counter remedies.
Maggie Milton and President Jim @ The Grand Opening of the ‘Love Me Again’ pop-up shop in May.
such chargeable. The charges can vary and depend on the amount of time taken to complete the form. It is now possible to self refer yourself for physiotherapy without seeing your GP. Please ask at reception if you require a form. Finally, the surgery will be closed in the afternoon on both Wednesday 18 September and Wednesday 13 November for Protected Learning Time and all day on Monday 23 September for the Public Holiday. In case of a medical emergency please contact NHS24 on
Some of you will be off on holiday soon so please remember to order your repeat prescription in plenty of time. This is a 48 hour service for which we have a dedicated prescription line . Some patients are surprised to hear that there are charges for filling out holiday and insurance claim forms. These are in effect private contracts that are not part of NHS services and are as 23
SCOTCH BROTH Traditional Music Group
T
he highlight of our year so far has been the concert we held on 30 June for Anne Ward, one of our members who died in March after a long illness.
Having had Natalie Brown, a fiddler from Iowa, as our leader for the last few weeks, we were able to include American Bluegrass tunes in our more usual Scottish and Irish repertoire. This, together with the solo spots, which included Anne’s husband and elder daughter on guitar, clarsach and vocals, an air on the flute composed especially for Anne, together with Natalie and one of our own singers, plus John’s inimitable jokes, we had a most successful and fun evening. We gave it as a charity concert and were surprised and absolutely delighted to be able to send nearly £850 to the three charities Anne’s family suggested. Everything about the concert went marvellously and we should like to thank all those people who came to support us, remember Anne and her family and donated so generously. We shall very much miss the discipline and fresh approach which Natalie brought to our sessions. We expect to be providing a slot at an informal charity day for ‘Create’ in the Cowdray Hall in September,
chelsea house clinic 215 North Deeside Road Peterculter
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followed by our next ‘public engagement’ for a Tai Chi St Andrew’s Night. We shall, of course, also be making our annual appearance at the St Peter’s Heritage Hall’s Carols and Mince Pies afternoon for Christmas. Meantime we continue to enjoy playing together at our informal weekly sessions, our raison d’être, so if you, too, play traditional music - on any instrument at intermediate level - and would like to join us, you’ll find us on a Sunday evening, 7 - 9 pm, in St Peter’s Heritage Hall, below the Old Culter Station. Contact: Christine Miller 01224 730091
Haven't got the time, tools or required skill set to get those jobs done in and around the home? Give me 'The Handyman' a call and I will get the job done in a professional, timely manner.
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New Website for Silver Surfers
Contact
B
e one of the founding members of a free new and exciting website for everyone who is aged 55+ Footprints Connect have set up a brand new website, which is designed specifically to respond to interests and opportunities for people in Aberdeen who are 55 and over.
Call & ask for Shaun 01224 733926 OR 07867 977232
Plumbing Tiling www.thm-aberdeen.co.uk R Flooring R Flatpack R & much more! R R
Over the coming few weeks they will be developing the site’s content – if you have ideas and suggestions for the site they’d love to hear them and will incorporate as many as possible. The site is set up by and for people who are 55+ so not only do they welcome feedback, it’s part of their way of working. See more information about us and the great services they provide at www.footprintsconnect.org.uk info@footprintsconnect.org.uk We look forward to welcoming you as a member of Footprints Connect. For anyone not yet on the internet but interested to find out how we can help to get connected, we can also be contacted by: Calling us on 07716 080425 or 07771 296612 or writing to us at 11, Waverley Place AB10 1XH 24
Culter Danscentre News
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anscentre have once again fought off fierce competition and been selected from hundreds of entries to perform at the UK Dance Proms in London.
Two groups from the school will be performing at the iconic Royal Albert Hall on 3 November as part of a national showcase of excellence in choreography and dance technique. ‘My Space’ (ages 9 - 11) and ‘Hide and Seek’ (ages 15 21) will be the only Scottish groups at the Proms, alongside twenty five other British and International entries. Preparations are beginning already and Danscentre will use Culter Village Hall to rehearse, as there are very few spaces in Aberdeen big enough to recreate the space at the Albert Hall! Danscentre is delighted and privileged to take part in this prestigious event for the second time since it began in 2011 and are looking forward to what will be the experience of a lifetime for the young dancers and their families. www.danscentre.com
Bridal Boutique wins Enterprise award
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ulter’s Bridal Boutique, owned and run by Stephanie Bain, won first place in the Young Scot Enterprise Award 2013, in April of this year. In the middle of a recession, Stephanie, then aged just twenty three, opened a wedding dress shop, which is now so busy that an appointment was needed to pop in and speak to her about her ongoing success!
The Bridal Boutique offers a very personal approach to searching for the perfect outfit for the big day, with Stephanie working with customers through booked appointments, to ensure special attention. The shop carries dresses from designers that are not available elsewhere in the north-east, or even Scotland, in some cases. Customers travel from all over Grampian to find an exclusive outfit in Peterculter! A glass of fizz welcomes you on arrival and Stephanie uses an iPad to help showcase dresses and catwalk shows, as well as having dresses to try on in the traditional way. Stephanie had originally intended to open a clothes shop, but wisely realised that there was always someone getting married and not much choice of dresses in the area. The shop is her baby, and she works very hard to make sure that everyone gets VIP treatment. She also offers a Wedding Day Dressing Service for brides and bridesmaids, as well as Down the Aisle in Style Bridal Coaching to handle the day with finesse. The Bridal Boutique is a good example of a small business which brings people into Culter from elsewhere, to help encourage a more vibrant focus to the village. Along with the neighbouring Lava Jewellery shop, which specialises in bespoke wedding jewellery, perhaps a hat shop should be next?
VSA Linn Moor School
“Miss Moneypenny”, survived the Monte Carlo or Bust Rally while raising almost £10,000 for social care charity VSA’s Linn Moor Residential School in Culter. The rally challenge took place in July and the gents set off from Aberdeen to Monte Carlo driving their ‘banger’, Miss Moneypenny. To qualify and participate in the rally, ‘bangers’ had to simply have four wheels and not exceed a value of £250. Miss Moneypenny, resurrected from the scrap heap, safely set off with her drivers David and Gordon and their fundraising road trip adventure will support children with additional support needs and autism have the most fun and fulfilling lives possible.
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Cults Learning Centre
fter a period of absence we are pleased to say that staff are now based in the Community Office at Cults Learning Centre within Cults Academy. They are looking forward to working with Lower Deeside Management Committee and the various other services and agencies for this area.
Due to the Council re-structuring, there are now “Communities” staff Driving fun into based in sixteen Learning Centres fundraising! across Aberdeen. avid Gillanders, a former The new staff consist of Learning British rally champion, Centre Supervisors, who cover various local businessman Gordon Centres and are responsible for programming the facilities and working Hutcheon and their faithful with the Management Committees and various other partners to meet the learning needs of the areas. There are also Clerical Receptionists, whose role will be to provide support to the Management Committees in the Centre they are based within and additional support to the wider Communities Team. Christine Reid is the Learning Centre Supervisor for six venues, Cults being one of these. She works from various bases throughout the week and can be contacted by e-mail From Malmaison to Monte Carlo! at David and Gordon prepare to leave Aberdeen.
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ChReid@aberdeencity.gov.uk or 07901 616566. Lorna Paul is the Clerical Receptionist for Cults Learning Centre and will be based in the Community Office two mornings a week, Tuesdays 9 am – 1 pm and Fridays 9 am – 12 noon. The contact details for Cults Learning Centre are by post at Cults Learning Centre, Community Wing, Cults Academy, Quarry Road, Aberdeen AB15 9TP, or by e-mail cultscc@aberdeencity.gov.uk 01224 866286. Please contact Christine Reid if you wish to book the Community Rooms or discuss further learning opportunities at the centre.
Borsalino Restaurant Est 1976
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The Courier funds projects around the village, using the revenue from advertising. This is only possible because the work is done by volunteers.
Coronation Court, School Road Hot Meals available to the General Public for £2.50! Come to the the Café at Coronation Court
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Monday to Friday 1.30 pm - 4.30 pm There will be a choice of two Main Meals each day
Philippa Matthew Editor
The Ploughman Mine Hosts: Graeme & Shirley Wight
Bar & Pool Room • Lounge & Dining Room For Table Reservations, Telephone 733365 26
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Letters to the Editor
irs - it is with sadness that I note the demise of yet another business in Culter. The opening of a new Fish Shop was truly a matter for celebration ... or so I thought. Several visits soon put paid to that idea. Poor selection and high prices in the middle of a recession did not ensure sufficient customers. Rather like the Deli, which formerly occupied this site, I sensed a certain rigidity of approach. Both shops were owned by people with enthusiasm and determination, so what went wrong ? The first shop’s owner replied to my comments about his £16 price for a bottle of olive oil with the comment. ‘I only want to sell the absolute best’ . When I asked why he did not have some tables for customers to drink his excellent Illy coffee, he said ‘I don’t want to encourage mothers with small children as it will put off my other customers’. Culter suffers the handicap of absent parking, which is enough of a disadvantage to put off all but those prepared to risk the fine of a warden. If small businesses are to succeed, they need our support, but they need to use initiative and respond to local conditions. Culter would have been enriched by a decent Deli and a good Fish Shop. Regrettably neither was forthcoming. Let’s hope its third time lucky! Ian Macilwain, Malcolm Road, Peterculter irs - I would like to draw attention to the wanton vandalism to public safety equipment - a life belt - that occurred over the weekend of 6-7 July, at the rear of numbers 44-50 Millside Terrace. The life belt stand had been broken off at the base and the life belt hung on a fence. That someone could wilfully destroy or damage life-saving equipment shows such ignorance and stupidity. I hope you will share my concern at the recklessness of this action. Not least, because the majority of residents in the area are striving to improve our environs with our Councillors’ support. C Mike Rollinson, Millside Terrace
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Don’t forget to tell advertisers you saw their advert in the Culter Courier!
Top Hats and Tiaras Grand Ball
The Aberdeen Hilton Treetops Hotel, Springfield Road September 14th 2013, 7pm ‘til 1am Dress Code: Black tie/Evening/Cocktail dress *Welcome Drink *Auction *Raffle *3 Course Dinner & Coffee Live Music and Dancing with the fantastic ’Burlesque’ Evening MC will be Aberdeen’s Northsound 1 Rebecca Curran Auctioneer: Highland League Player Ian Thain, whose career spanned 22 seasons with Deveronvale, Keith, Inverurie locos abd Cove Rangers. For more information on how to buy tickets or how to help - Contact Lucy on 07557 853500 or on lucy.wilson@momentumfundrasing.co.uk. For information on how Momentum has helped people in the Aberdeen Brain Injury Centre check out: www.momentumuk.org.uk/fundraising/event/top-hats-tiaras-ball. It’s time to dust off your top hats and shine your tiaras. We look forward to seeing you there.
Need the Police? New Phone Number
Just call For example: • to report vandalism • to report a stolen car • to talk to local police 101 connects you to the nearest local police anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from a landline or a mobile phone.
In an emergency, always call 999
All calls cost 15p total TextRelay users dial 1 800 1 101 Add “Police 101” to your mobile. www.scotland.police.uk/101
Richmond Arms & Black’s Bar 323 North Deeside Road, Peterculter Tel: 01224 733983
Breakfasts & Lunches now being served 10 am - 3 pm : Monday - Thursday 10 am - 6 pm : Friday, Saturday, Sunday Regular Live Bands Discos and Quiz Nights Sky Sports and 3D Football Forthcoming Live Bands at The Richmond Arms: Sat 24 Aug : Bash Street Kids Sat 31 Aug : Taxi for Bongo Sat 22 Sept : Jems Sat 5 Oct : Fubar Sat 26 Oct : May Contain Nuts
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Culter Community Council Philippa Matthew David Wakefield Catherine Lacy Ian Langtry Lavina Massie Ann Wakefield Judith Dack Brian Yule
Culter Courier
739181 Chair 733273 Vice Chair 733710 Secretary 734910 Treasurer 732084 Planning / VICE CHAIR 733273 Anne Russell 733384 734569 Allan McKenzie 734455 733307 Ivan Krapivin 739041
Editor : Philippa Matthew 01224 739181 email: cultercourier@gmail.com
Culter Community Council Meetings 2013: Held at the Pop-In on North Deeside Rd at 7 pm on:
Tues 20 Aug, Weds 18 Sept, Thurs 24 Oct. The AGM is on Mon 18 November. Minutes are held at Culter Library.
Opinions expressed in the “Courier” are not necessarily shared by the Editor. The Editor is not responsible for the contents of any advertisment placed in this newsletter nor the reliability or quality of any goods or services offered therein. Inclusion in this newsletter should not be taken as an endorsement of the advertiser by the Editor.
We are still looking for volunteers to deliver the Courier. One hour, four times a year - it’s not much! Your time equals money raised to fund Culter projects. Call Ann Wakefield 733273 And thank you to all our existing loyal deliverers
Can you help? Saturday 24 August 10 am at The Ross Watt Community Garden
Advertising : Anne Russell 01224 733384 101 North Deeside Rd Peterculter AB14 0RR email: annerussel@aol.com
C ourier De a d line Articles and adverts to be submitted by Weds 23 Oct. Out on: 15 Nov
Culter Classifieds NEW
Slimming World Classes Peterculter Heritage Hall: Thursdays @ 9:30 am Banchory Royal British Legion: Tuesdays 5:30 and 7:30 pm Call Rachael on 07878 973766
LOcal Building Contractors Rae Brown & Co LTD. Est.1975 Kitchens, Doors, Windows, Roof Repairs, Plastering, Extensions, Loft Conversions. www.raebrown.co.uk 01224 723420 Hotel with a difference Lovat Lodge Hotel, Nairn Specially adapted for disabled guests. Local excursions and in-house entertainment Call 01667 453298 www.lovatlodgehotel.co.uk Ashtanga Yoga Classes Invigorate! Local yoga classes Coran Gladstone-Noble BSYA www.yogabycoran.com 01224 917288 Doddzy’s Cleaning Services Commercial or residential cleaning Fully insured. Call for more information 07938 667109
Culter Village Hall Culter Community Playgroup together with Culter and District Community Association are developing an outdoor learning area within the Ross Watt Community Garden. Volunteers are needed to help barrow soil.
Please bring your own barrow and shovel if you can, and plenty of enthusiasm and energy! Contact Jane 732120 or Sheila 733476 or email culterplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk
Forthcoming Events for 2013 Sunday Lunches now being served every Sunday Wine Tasting Evening : Friday 4th October Inhouse Wedding Exhibition : Sunday 13th October Murder Mystery Evening : Friday 25th October Christmas Party Night : Saturday 21st December Christmas Day : Bookings now being taken Hogmanay Ball : Bookings now being taken Call now to make your reservations
01224 732124
Email conferences@maryculterhousehotel.com www.maryculterhousehotel.com 28