culter courier
• CULTER • COMMUNITY • NEWS • Culter Community Council News
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e have had a few changes in within the Community Council in the last months. We have lost a member and gained a new one. Our AGM takes place on 18 November, where roles will be redistributed and formalised. I am sad to announce that David Wakefield has stepped down from CCC, after injecting his energy, tenacity and skills into the team. His committment to Culter is admirable and his efforts on your behalf have been fantastic. He is passionate about our community and especially our environment. He has worked very hard on our pathways, which are not fully maintained by the Council, particularly the route along the river (Lover’s Walk) and up the Old Ferry Road from the river to Pittengullies Rd. The disastrous flooding last Christmas and vandalism were major setbacks to that work, sadly undoing part of what had been acheived. David also did all the hard work preparing Culter’s Planning Framework for CCC, which we displayed at the Gala this year. He also prepared all the great photos of Culter in the CCC marquee. Most recently, he has been helping to prepare a Planning Protocol with the Community Council’s Forum, which aims to set out a clear procedure for Community Councils and Planners to follow. I would just like to say a big public thank you to David, on behalf of CCC and Culter. Culter Buses
A new bus service has been started up by Stagecoach, thanks to efforts by Councillor Malik, which aims to pick up passengers from Bucklerburn, School Road and Coronation Road to take them down to the Deeside Road, and on into town. Details of the service are set out in Cllr. Boulton and Malik’s article. Additionally, CCC have also been in discussion with Stagecoach and First Bus about the possibility of providing a service which
ISSUE No:133 November 2013
brings people from “up the hill” down Coronation park into the village and back, to allow resi- We finally have a new roundabout! dents to get to our shops and facilities. A similar connected service is being War memorial We are looking at refurbishing investigated for Miltimber and Look Out the village war memorial, to Cults. for the commemorate the centenary Culter in Bloom of the start of the First World I want to speak for everyone in Household War. We are hoping to set up a Culter when I say thank you again Emergency working group to consider all to the Culter in Bloom team, but options. This has been brought Plan most especially to Erik Stien, who to the forefront by Callum has worked so hard and acheived Pull-Out Stuart’s tireless research into so much for our community. Our inside! the names and families of planting is fabulous and our new those lost from Culter. Read village entrance feature is something “A Hero in the Family” in this edition to be very proud of. Thank you Erik! of the Courier. Thank you Callum.
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Finally, I would like to thank our Aberdeen City Councillors, Aileen Malone, Marie Boulton and Tauqeer Malik for al their hard work on our behalf. They listen to endless complaints and then try their best to find solutions. Philippa Matthew
Culter Gala Funds Distribution 2013
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ollowing on from the request for grant applications from the 2013 Gala Funds in the August edition of the Courier, fourteen community groups applied for funding. Distribution meetings were held in September and funds were allocated following approval from the Culter Community Council. Many thanks to Culter Community Council. The approved funds were distributed to the following groups:
58th Scout Group: • Camping equipment Culter Kindergym: • Timber slide or mini trampette Culter Xmas Lights: • Repair lights and fund professional entertainer Culter Theatre Club: • Upgrade sound and lighting system 2nd Culter Brownies: • Attend big Brownie celebrations (hire of coach and fun day) Culter School Parent Council: • Outdoor Equipment Culter & District Community Association: • New front doors for Village Hall Culter & District Horticultural Society: • Wooden boards for Flower Show Culter Playgroup: • Toy pirate ship and sunhats Culter & District Pipe Band: • 10 sets of new drone reeds Culter Cobras: • Coffee fundraising start-up (part of Culter Youth Fotball) Aberdeen Riding Club: • 1 month tuition fees for disabled riders Culter in Bloom: • Flowers around Culter Culter Community Council: • Coronation Road Playground towards new roundabout.
The Annual General Meeting of the Culter Gala Committee will take place in the Pop-In, Peterculter on Tuesday 12 November 2013 at 1930. I’d like to take this opportunity to appeal for volunteers to assist with the preparations for the 2014 Culter Gala and respectfully invite volunteers to attend the AGM or get in contact directly with the Chairman. Any assistance would be most appreciated. Planning and preparations are already underway for the 2014 Culter Gala, with the date already set for the Annual Race Night in the Community Hall on 22 February 2014. Gala Day will take place on the last Saturday of May, the 31st, as is traditional. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Culter Gala Committee for their help and dedication once again in making the annual Culter Gala possible. Allan McKenzie Culter Gala Chair Mob: 07802 502949 allan.mckenzie@btinternet.com
on South Lasts Farm. It will be sited only 400 metres west of Malcolm Road on the 90 metre contour, with a new access track to it close to the road leading to Leith’s Quarry and North Lasts. It is interesting to note that the primary applicants are Aberdeen City Council in partnership with the company set up by the owners of the farm. 3 Brighton Place
This application is for a change of use and conversion of the hot food takeaway into two offices. The members of CCC decided not to object as the change still sees the site to be used for business purposes. Lavina C. Massie Planning Liaison Officer Culter Community Council
Culter Community Resilience Plan
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mergencies can occur at any time but with winter just around the corner, now is a good time to get prepared. Planning In this edition of the Courier, Pittengullies Brae Since my last report, Bancon has you will find a Household received detailed planning permission Emergency Plan. to erect the first eight houses in the field to the east of Pittengullies Brae and Permission in Principle for a further thirty three units (a mixture of houses with a few flats) in the rest of the fieldwith detailed plans to come later.
Please use it to fill out details for you and your family, to agree your own personal Emergency Plan. Keep it somewhere handy, and make sure everyone in your home knows what has been agreed. A similar form has already gone out to all UK comCulter Cars Site munities who have I reported in the made Emergency Relast Courier that the silience Plans. Culter owners had received We need more Community Council Planning in Princihave worked hard to people ple for up to sixteen produce this sheet to flats on the site with a to help with help you think about Condition they had to what you would do, Gala 2014 come with a detailed before something plan for the access, goes wrong. Planning is siting, design, exterThen hopefully underway already! nal finishes and landyou will be that little scaping for the block bit more prepared for Please contact and CCC had made anything that winter strong objections to Allan Mackenzie can throw at us. these. Other than an Thank you to all acknowledgement of those people and local organizations these objections I have received no further information on what is happening. who have volunteered to help if there should be an emergency. If you would South Lasts Farm like to know more about volunteering, The only application in the weekly lists please email us on: to which CCC objected was for a second wind turbine, again 86 metres high, culterplan@gmail.com
Culter Gala
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News from Councillors Boulton and Malik
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e can’t believe we are nearing the end of another year. We have been very lucky with the weather this Summer, which hopefully doesn’t mean we are in for a long hard Winter. Winter Roads Treatment
Plans are well under way for treating the road surfaces when the weather turns inclement. The Council’s Roads Teams considering how they can incorporate the treatment of the main cycle routes such as the Deeside Way. There are many factors which makes treatment of the railway line difficult. The main issues are run-off water from fields, heavily shaded areas where ice becomes compacted and the availability personnel and suitable equipment. The Council are providing local communities with the chance to help themselves this winter, by taking charge of supplies of salt to treat their areas during harsh conditions. Following a successful trial last winter, the Council is rolling out a community winter self-help scheme, which saw more than 30 tonnes of salt provided across the city. Expressions of interest are invited from members of the community, who are willing to get out and do their bit to tackle ice and snow locally. Where appropriate, one ton bags of salt will be provided, which members of the community can use over the winter period to tackle icy areas. A secure and accessible area, like a driveway or garage, would have to be available for storing the salt. To express interest in taking a bag of salt for community use, please email RoadMaintenance@aberdeencity.gov.uk or telephone 01224 241500. Grit bins will still be in place as before, salt mix stocks are already in the Council’s depots across the City and grit bins are being filled. Should the box near you
become empty, please call 0845 608 0919 to get it filled. Malcolm Road
Whilst we are on roads, Aberdeen City Council have been trying to carry out a survey on the rural part of Malcolm Road. However, unfortunately and for some unknown reason, every time they lay the rubber cables across the road, someone rips them up and throws them into an adjacent field. It would be very much appreciated if whoever is doing this stopped immediately, so that accurate information can be gathered. New Bus in Culter
Stagecoach Bluebird has restarted the 119 Service from Bucklerburn Drive to Union Square via School Road, Coronation Road, North Deeside Road, Great Western Rd, Holburn St, Union St, Market St to Union Square, and the same in reverse. This is the current timetable: 119 Stagecoach Bus Culter (Bucklerburn) to Union Square Monday to Friday only Peterculter Bucklerburn Cults Hotel Mannofield Holburn Rd Aberdeen Union Square
0915 0930 0940 0955
No Saturday Service Union Square to Culter (Bucklerburn) Monday to Friday only Aberdeen Union Square Mannofield Holburn Rd Cults Hotel Bucklerburn Wynd
1205 1214 1227 1242
Blooming Culter
We would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Culter in Bloom again for their fantastic efforts in making Culter look “blooming marvellous” and for
winning yet another award. The time and effort that goes into keeping the tubs, verges and planters looking fresh and interesting and over so many locations, should never be underestimated. Whilst thanks are going out, we would also like to add our sincere thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Community Council, who make sure the interests of the community are represented and also the team at the Culter Courier, who ensure the community are kept informed of local and city-wide events. City of Culture
As mentioned in the last issue of this newsletter, we are expecting the announcement next month, of which U.K. City will be awarded ‘City of Culture 2017’. This news will allow us, as a Council, to freely develop and announce culture plans for our City. Marischal Square
By the time you read this article, the consultation on the redevelopment of the St Nicholas House site in the City will be underway. We encourage everyone to participate, making suggestions of how they would like the area to be laid out and utilised. The site has been renamed ‘Marischal Square’, which we hope you will agree is very fitting, given the proximity of the magnificent Marischal College Building. City Strategic Planning
Elected Members and Council Officers are currently working on the Aberdeen Strategic Infrastructure Plan. This will lay out the aspirations of the current administration in terms of, housing, education, transport network, City Centre regeneration, and then proposing actions, timescales and funding models. This report will be placed before Council on 31 October.
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On Lower Deeside, over recent weeks, there have been several garages broken into. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report anyone they think maybe acting suspiciously. Lines of enquiry are still being pursued with regard to the recent robbery at the Bieldside Store and again, if any member of the public remembers seeing anything suspicious in the days/ weeks leading up to the robbery, they should contact the Police. The City Wardens, in conjunction with the Police, have been attempting to educate some less considerate drivers, who have been parking inappropriately and causing significant problems on sections of the North Deeside Road. Christmas Dates
• 28 November : City Christmas Tree Lights will be switched on at the Castlegate. • 1 December : Santa’s Parade on Union Street. • 5 December : Switch-on for the Christmas Tree Lights at Union Terrace Gardens. • 6 December : Opening of Winter Wonderland, The Elves Workshop and Santa’s Grotto, which will all run until 15 December in Union Terrace Gardens. • Fireworks and Entertainment on Hogmanay with the back drop of the Theatre, will happen again this year, look out for more details as they are made available. May we take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year. Cllr Marie Boulton & Cllr Tauqeer Malik
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From Councillor malik I would like to express my appreciation and thanks to Stagecoach for restarting the highly demanded bus service from Coronation Road through to Bucklerburn. I put a lot of time and effort in to trying to get it to once again continue. I am very pleased that the elderly citizens of our community are benefiting from it greatly.
News from Councillor Malone Play Park Coronation Road
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am delighted with the recent refurbishment of the play park at Coronation Road/ Crown Terrace. The new seats on the swings and the new ‘spinner’ are a real hit with the kids of all ages.
I have been keen to see improvements at this site as this should be a pleasant, enjoyable location for young people. A general tidy up of the area has also helped to make the area look more attractive. To keep things safe and tidy, I am in the process of arranging for a decent-size litter bin to be installed. I hope this can be done without delay. Please let me know any comments and questions and I will follow up. The Bush – Road Closure
I have been asked by several residents why The Bush road closure has not been enforced. A purchase order has been issued to our in-house contractor and the bollards for the top of the fire break have been ordered. We are waiting for a delivery date before the contractor can
finally start the work. I am keen to ensure that the residents of The Bush will receive a letter to confirm the arrangements, including the closure date. Flood Guard Grant Scheme
I am delighted that my recent motion on flooding was approved by the Council. Last year many households in the area suffered from floods and this problem could keep on returning. I asked for the affected households to be supplied with appropriate flood guards. This is a practice followed elsewhere and I wanted local people to benefit from this good idea. Sandbags are just not sufficient. The new guards should have a useable life of around 15 – 25 years. It was agreed that subject to budget approval in February 2014, a sum of £50,000 would then be approved for the next five years to manage the project. A grant of 50% of the cost of installing the flood guards to a maximum of £1,250 per property will be made available. The average cost of supplying flood guard products is…. • Domestic Door Guard x 2 £ 1,000 • Garage Door Guard £ 1,000 • Air Brick Cover x 6 £ 300 • Non-return valve £ 100 If the funding is approved each application will be assessed individually and will only be available to properties that have previously sustained damage due to flooding. Or there is an ongoing risk of flooding and the installation of flood guards will help to reduce the risks. I do hope that we do not experience the flooding issues that occurred last year as unfortunately the funding will not be available this year. However, preventative action such as the floodguards will help to limit the damage to
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affected properties in future years. I will ensure that the funding for this project does not ‘slide’ during next year’s budget process. Have a lovely Christmas and New Year. Please in the meantime 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. Please do not hesitate to get in touch about any issue. My contact details are as follows: Councillor Aileen Malone Town House Broad Street Aberdeen AB10 1FY Direct Dial: 522356 Home: 868690 Email: amalone@aberdeencity.gov.uk
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CULTER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
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estive cheer will once again be added to the village of Peterculter. Fundraising efforts are ongoing and we are looking to sustain our existing wonderful display of lights.
To celebrate this event, an official ‘Switch On’ Ceremony is planned in the Village on Saturday 23 November from 4 pm – 6 pm. The ceremony is to be held in Culter Village Hall where residents can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie whilst listening to Granite City Brass Band playing Christmas Carols. Santa will also be making an appearance for the children. Once again we will be having a “Magic Show” which I am sure will entertain both children and adults alike. We are running a “Culter at Christmas” Arts competition for “Switch On” of the Lights. It is hoped that local residents will turn out to support our local event and to celebrate the efforts of the community. If you would like further information on this event please contact the Culter Christmas Lights Co-ordinator: James Farquhar Tel: 01224 733742
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he Beautiful Scotland judges visited Culter on 30 July. On 6 September, we learned that they had awarded us a Silver Gilt Certificate, the same as for our last entry in 2011. We were second in Scotland in our group, the winner being our old friends Dyce in Bloom, who were also given the same level of award, but with a few crucial additional points on their scoresheet.
The judges don’t discuss their results with us, but a close reading of their written comments (which you may have seen in our recent display in the Culter Library) suggests that they had seen some evidence of flyposting and graffiti here, and they also recommended “a responsible dog owner strategy” – so we can speculate what else they may have seen during the visit! Our colourful summer planting scheme was probably
Culter in Bloom need more helpers! Contact 734450 Ian Anderson, the designer of the West End sculpture with Lynn Smith, Chief Executive of main sponsor Aberdeen Forward, at the Completion Ceremony on 30 August (Photo: Kathleen Robertson) the best ever this year and has been much complimented by visitors, but these remarks are a clear reminder to us that the judges assess the whole village on everything they see on the day, not just what we show them. A high level of civic responsibility by everyone is essential if we are ever to achieve a Gold Award. Ian Anderson’s innovative sculpture of “St Peter” is now in place at the West End, and a commemorative plaque describing it and acknowledging its sponsors was formally unveiled on 30 August by Lynn Smith, the chief executive of the main sponsor Aberdeen Forward. We have still to plant some bluebells, wood anemones and miniature daffodils among the shrubs and heathers around it, and will also fill the embankment to the left with daffodils. The slope to the right has already been planted up with perennial wildflowers, so there should be something of interest all year round. Several people have suggested that the statue should be illuminated at night, at least over the winter months, and we will look at this as a further project – needless to say local authority agreement and some further grant assistance will be necessary! Saturday 19 October was the day we planted our Spring displays of polyanthus and pansies in our many tubs and mangers. We were really short-handed as several of our team were unable to help that day, and we really need more volunteers. If you could spare a few hours to help keep the village looking beautiful, please let us know. Our secretary Carol Page will be delighted to hear from you. Your suggestions are also welcome. Just call 734450 or email
CULTER COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP
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here is now a new area in the Ross Watt Community Garden, behind Culter Village Hall. It is called the Windy Wood and has been created as an outdoor learning space for the children at Playgroup and Rising Fives. It has a winding path through areas for building dens, making mud pies, climbing and balancing and an outdoor story corner. The children and staff are having a fantastic time during their outdoor sessions.
A lot of work went into creating the Windy Wood and the playgroup would like to thank the Village Hall for allowing us to develop this area of the garden. We are very lucky to have such a large outdoor space available for us to use.
We would also like to thank Bert from McIntosh Plant Hire for providing topsoil and the lorry and driver to move it! Also Ian from McIntosh Plant Hire, who along with a small team of volunteers, barrowed the six tons of top soil up to the wood, and in record breaking time too! Well done and thank you to the volunteers who came with their wheelbarrows and worked so hard. Thanks too to James Skinner for fixing the step and all the other little jobs he did. Thanks also goes to Mr Adams of Woodend Farm who has donated tractor tyres, Does anyone else remember when the playgroup sandpit was a tractor tyre? None of this would have happened without the guidance and hard work of Steven Bly and his volunteers from Aberdeen City Rangers Service. Thank you Steven. Many hours of hard work were put in to the garden and hopefully there will be many more hours of enjoyment and learning for the children. If your passing, feel free to go up and have a look. The playgroup was lucky enough to receive a donation of £200 from the Gala funds which will be spent on sun hats for the children to wear while out in the garden in the summer, and a new toy space station. Thank you to the Gala Committee. Do you have an old button box? Do you have a sweety tin full of old buttons lurking in the back of a cupboard somewhere? If so playgroup would love to give it a new home. Please drop any in to the playgroup or call 733289 and arrange to have them collected.
The Playgroup Barrow Brigade shifting six tons of soil!
carolp301@gmail.com www.culterinbloom.org.uk Erik Stien 7
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Culter theatre club
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f you have not bought your tickets for this years Culter Panto then you better hurry! For the last several years all five performances have been a sellout, so get your tickets before its too late!
This year we are presenting a Pantomime version of The Wizard Of Oz. Performances are nightly at 7.30 pm from Wednesday 4 December till Saturday 7 December, with a matinée at 2 pm on the Saturday. Tickets available from Culter Village Hall: Telephone Culter Village Hall : 734371. We are progressing with our technical upgrades to the lighting and sound systems, so we hope you will be impressed when you come to see the Panto with the new things we can do. Don’t worry though, there will still be plenty low tech Panto magic too! A big THANK YOU to everyone who came to the Heritage Centre for afternoon tea back in September. Over the weekend, we raised an amazing £622.13. Thanks to our talented bakers and our members who came to help serve. The club would also like to thank Culter Gala for their generous donation from Gala funds towards our technical project. If you would like to get involved, we have lots of non-performing roles within the club. Please get in touch, check our website www.cultertheatreclub.co.uk or like us on Facebook. See you on the yellow brick road!
Culter Scouts An Alternative Scout Promise
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ou may have noted press coverage of the recent announcement that the Scout Association has an alternative version of its membership promise for young people who do not believe in God. 8
After a ten month consultation open to scouts, parents and the wider public, the Scout Association has followed the Girl Guides in a move that recognises the movement needs to do more to recognise those with no religious conviction as well as those of other faiths. The current scout promise is: “On my honour, I promise that I will do my best, to do my duty to God and to the Queen, to help other people and to keep the Scout Law” From January, instead of vowing “to do my duty to God”, scouts will have the option to promise to “uphold our scout values”. In a further move, the Scout Association has also announced that atheist Scout Leaders will also be permitted for the first time. Reaction has been positive from Church leaders: the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland described the move as “a sensible and inclusive step”. In Culter Scouts we are unaware of any situation where youngsters chose not to join scouts due to the religious element of the promise. However, this has been cited by parents as a reason for not becoming a leader. We hope this initiative will be seen as a positive step and look forward to an even broader and more diverse scout membership. Dave Keay Group Executive Chair 58th Aberdeen (Culter) Scouts
PETERCULTER PARISH CHURCH
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ou are all warmly invited to our Christmas services and events. Our advent services begin on 1 December, when we start to count down the days to Christmas.
There will be a Christingle Service on 15 December and a Family Service on 22 December, when the children will be performing a Nativity Play. On 24 December at 7.00 pm there will be our popular Candlelight Service and the Watchnight Service will be at 11.15 pm. There will be a short service of worship on Christmas Day at 10.30 am, at which children are invited to bring their toys. On 29 December, we will be having a Service of Lessons and Carols. We will also have an Outdoor Carol Sservice on Monday 16 December at
7.00 pm in the church car park, weather permitting. For those who have lost loved ones in the past, we will be holding our annual Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance, to remember loved ones who have passed away. All are welcome to this service, whether you have been bereaved recently or some time ago. It will take place on Sunday 15 December at 2.00 pm and will be followed by tea/ coffee. On Saturday 30 November we will be holding our annual Christmas Fayre from 2.00 – 4.00 pm. Tickets, priced £3 adults, £1.50 children, are now available and can be purchased in advance from the Church Office or on the day. The tickets cover the cost of teas/coffees and home baking. There will be a wide range of stalls available. The Aberdeen Chorus of Sweet Adelines will perform their Christmas Show on Friday 13 December at 7.30 pm. Our Table Top Sales offer a wide range of goods from a variety of stall holders. Great bargains to be found! They take place on the first Saturday of every month (not in January). A new adult Christian Education course will take place on Thursday November 14, 21, and 28 at 7.00 pm in the extension area. Each evening will finish no later than 8.30 pm. The series will explore the rise of atheism over the past few centuries and ways in which the Church can defend itself against it. Teas and coffees and home baking are served every Thursday and Saturday, from 10.00 am – 12 noon. The final Saturday coffees of the year will be on 21 December and they will resume 11 January. The final Thursday coffees will be on 19 December and they will resume on 9 January. The Delta Bible Study Group meets on the first Thursday in the month, at 10.00 am until 11.00 am in the extension area of the church. New members will be most welcome to join our Bible Study Group at any time. More information on all activities can be found on our web site, where you can also listen to our services: www.culterkirk.co.uk John Ferguson
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Culter Kirk Friendship Club
veryone is welcome to attend the CKF Club meetings, which are held in the Small Hall at Peterculter Parish Church from 7.30 to about 9 pm.
TUESDAY 12 NOVEMBER
Mr George McRobb will talk on “A Special Year” TUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER
Dr. Iain Fraser & Friend will speak about “Saving Sight in Grampian”. TUESDAY 10 DECEMBER
Party Evening FESTIVE BREAK TUESDAY 14 JANUARY 2014
Guest speaker will be Rev Dr John Ferguson
13 November 2013:
Mrs Heather Morrison : The ForgetMe-Not Club 27 November:
Gordon Casely : Here or Hereaboot 11 December:
Pastor Howard Drysdale (Aberdeen Seafarers’ Centre) : topic to be advised 8 January 2014:
Proposed Lunch at Old Mill Inn 15 January:
Henry Begg : Burns 29 January:
Herbert Arthur Twiddy Magic Moments 12 February:
Kenneth Carle SSPCA Posters giving details of forthcoming speakers will be on display in the village. For further information please contact the Chairperson, Moira Morris on 01224 861756.
TUESDAY 28 JANUARY
Scottish Evening with David and Bill TUESDAY 11 FEBRUARY
“Raeburn Nursing” talk by Linda Dalgarno TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY
“Gordon Highlanders” talk by Tess Maclean TUESDAY 11 MARCH
Club Evening with “Bring and Buy” Stall TUESDAY 25 MARCH
“Role of a Librarian” by Jennifer Paterson from Culter Library. Do come along. We’d be pleased to see you ...
The Wednesday Club
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he Wednesday Club continues to meet in Culter Parish Church with interesting fortnightly talks, starting at 2.00 pm. Membership is not compulsory, we extend a warm welcome to visitors on a frequent/infrequent basis. Members pay £1 per meeting, visitors pay £2 per meeting. We look forward to your company – tea/coffee and biscuits are served in the Small Hall after each meeting. 9
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CULTER HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
ome months have passed since the Culter Flower Show in August, but I would very much like to record our thanks to everyone who took part – the people bravely entering their flowers, their vegetables, their cakes, their embroidery in the Show, those who nobly heaved tables and chairs around, those who served the wonderful teas and especially those who came to view and admire all our efforts – that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
Our especial thanks go to Councillor Malik, whose infectious enthusiasm for all he saw was a tremendous lift, and his participation in the auction made proceedings go with a swing! Our trophy winners are listed below, and if you haven’t received your trophy yet, I will be round soon with them. And if you’re keen to have a look at next year’s schedule, to be ready in time for Sat 16 August 2014, give me a ring on the number below! Catherine Lacy Tel: 733710
Gardening & Odd Jobs Please call Gordon 07951 992701 01339 882429 gordonmcwilliam@outlook.com
The Oven Valet Oven Cleaners Doing the jobs you hate Bringing the Sparkle back to your oven Members of The Association of Approved Oven Cleaners
01330 823079 07920483233
www.theovenvalet.com
Hollie Porter Podiatry A friendly service with excellence, care and compassion
Routine Care Biomechanics Orthotics Hollie Porter BSc (Hons) MChS Mobile Podiatrist/Chiropodist HPC and SCP Registered
M: 07772 149813
E: hollie_porter@hotmail.co.uk
Grace Cranna
formerly of Aristacut, Stil ar & Riah, is at Meka Hair Design in Peterculter Free consultations for all new clients
01224 732192 0787 9605053
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
Flower Show Winners
James Milne Trophy (Overall Winner) Terry Stott, Aberdeen Society Trophy (Overall Runner-up) Paula Silvester, Culter Challenge Trophy (Pot Plants) Catherine Lacy, Culter Robert Morrison Challenge Trophy (Best Begonia) Clare Snow, Culter Douglas Macdonald Salver (Best Exhibit Hanging Basket/Patio Container) Allan Paul, Cove William Berry Cup (Cut Flowers) Terry Stott, Aberdeen Challenge Trophy (Best 3 Vases Chrysanthemums) Donald Buchan, Aberdeen Diploma (Best Vase of Chrysanthemum Sprays) Donald Buchan, Aberdeen Leonard Cup (3 Vases Dahlias) Ray Barclay, Bridge of Don Challenge Trophy (Best Vase Dahlias) Ray Barclay, Bridge of Don Kenneth Ross Shield (Best Exhibit Pansies/Violas) Terry Stott, Aberdeen Culter Leisure Prog. Trophy (Decorative) Paula Silvester, Culter Society Trophy (Floral Art) Paula Silvester, Culter Diploma (Best Exhibit Floral Art) Paula Silvester, Culter Mrs Edna Edward Trophy (Novice Floral Art) Lauranne Sharp, Culter Mrs Geddes Challenge Cup (Vegetables) Fred Stewart, Portlethen Shield (Senior Citizens) Malcolm Sharp, Culter Challenge Trophy (Cookery) Alison Macdonald, Culter Diploma (Best Exhibit Cookery) Alison Macdonald, Culter Challenge Trophy (Preserves Dairy) Alison Macdonald, Culter Mrs Edwards Trophy (Knitting & Needlework) Alison Macdonald, Culter Diploma (Best Exhibit Knitting & Needlework) Alison Skinner, Culter Society Salver (Crafts) Alison Macdonald, Culter 10
Community Council Trophy (Photography) Catherine Lacy, Culter Diploma (Best Exhibit Children’s 11-16 years Hana Ahmed, Culter Culter School PTA Trophy (Children’s Overall Winner) Lewis Selfridge, Culter Trophies presented by CCC Representative:
Community Council Trophy (Best-kept Garden in Culter) Kate Martin, 5 Towerview Lane Edwin Davidson Trophy (Best Pensioner’s Garden) Allan Stewart, 70 Coronation Road Community Council Trophy (Best All-year Round Garden) Bill Ledford, Rhi ans, Buckerburn Culter in Colour Shield (For Improving the Appearance of Culter by use of Tubs & Containers) Mr William Findlater Mrs Joan McKim Ewen Wallace
Plan your Planting! Next year’s Flower Show Sat 16 Aug 2014
OUT & ABOUT A Prolific Wild Harvest
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t started back in June with emergence of a good wild raspberry crop. By July and into August we were collecting plentiful supplies of wild chanterelle mushrooms and the blaeberry crop was maturing nicely with good wild cherries if you could get to them before the birds.
September saw the emergence of high quality cep family wild mushrooms plus an exceptional blackberry crop. As we move into October, wild plum, quince, crab apple, rowan and rosehip were all available for gathering. Elderflower and blackthorn, chestnut, hazel and beechnut are all coming into season.
There is a refreshingly generous bloom of produce this year for the wild harvest enthusiast. This abundance stimulates the ‘hunter gatherer’ in my nature and I return from forays into forest and countryside with pockets and bags full. A favourite objective is to collect ingredients to add to crushed oats and oat bran to make porridge. This year has been exceptional with daily additions of raspberries, red and black currants, blaeberries, blackberries, apples, hazel nuts, sunflower seeds and the like over the past three months as they become available. Most satisfying and very healthy no doubt. It was educational to experience blackberry hunting in the forest with four dogs. I was previously unaware of their taste for blackberries and to my delight I found them picking and eating their own. I have yet to turn attention to nettles, wild garlic and aniseed, herbs and edible flowers, but the long list for the informed enthusiast can be fascinating and rewarding, This adds to a generally prolific year in the vegetable garden & orchard, an abundance of woodpigeon, wild geese and roe deer, making self sufficiency possible. On the downside, the salmon run is poor with lack of water and overfishing at sea. The few fish arriving held up at the mercy of countless seals and dolphins. Otters are hard hit as the eel population collapses due to disease at sea with trout also in short supply. DJW
CULTER MILLS SOCIAL CLUB Community Open Day
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he club wishes to thank all those organisations, businesses and individuals
who contributed to our very successful Open Day event on 28 September. We are grateful for the numerous donations of prizes for the raffle, the open mike competion and the bottle stall, baking for the teas, running the disco/karaoke, manning the BBQ, providing the marquee, piping at the opening ceremony and the assistance of staff, committee, members and others to make this a memorable day. 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 are welcome. Entertainment in the Hall
• • • • • • • •
All at 8 pm or as otherwise stated 9 Nov : Music with Phil Sinclair Disco : £2.50 at the door. 7 December : Music with Moonshine : £2.50 at the door. 20 December : Christmas Show Rudolph’s Last Stand by Paul Hughson with supporting Choir and Traditional Music : £5 31 December: See in the New Year with Music by Jim Adams : £5 1 January : Children’s Entertainment with Road Runners Disco 2 to 6 pm : £2 25 January : Burns Night with S. Neilson. Includes Haggis, Neeps & Tatties : £5 22 February : Music with Callum : £3.00 at the door.
Table Top Sale
• 7 December: Table Top Sale in the Hall 10 am to 12 mid-day : £10 per table. Weekly Sunday Bingo
• 6 December : Enjoy Prize Bingo at 7.30 pm.
Long standing Club Members Ella & Jim Brown who cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the refurbished Clubrooms. 11
Thursday Tea Dances
Fortnightly from 1.30 to 4 pm with recorded music. 14 November : 28 November : 12 December : 9 January : 23 January : 6 February : 20 February. Saturday Night Dances
8 to 11.30 pm. Entry charge includes tea/coffee and biscuits. • 30 November : Music by Johnny Duncan • 21 December : Music by Wayne Robertson • 11 January : Music by George Rennie • 8 February : Music by Wayne Robertson. “Busy Fingers” Craft Club
The Club meets every second Thursday 1 to 4 pm in the Lounge. Dates from 7 November onwards. Projects worked on include knitting, tapestry, jewellery, crochet, card-making and water colour painting. If you would enjoy an afternoon of friendship and laughter, please come and join us with your craft work. 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 are Welcome!
Camphill School
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utumn is arriving as the colours outside the window turn rusty and the wind rustles through the leaves. Last weekend we hosted our annual Open Day and were rewarded with great weather which brought many people onto the Estate; the Culter Boys Brigade Pipe Band set the afternoon off as always in their festive manner; faces were painted, candles dipped and donkeys ridden…
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
Craigton Lodge Nursery School
Children aged 0-5 years Large garden for outdoor play Unique facilities for 0-3 years Partly funded places available for 3 & 4 year olds. 8 to 6 Mon - Fri 5/7 Craigton Cres., Peterculter. Telephone 01224 - 733980
Earlier this term we were joined by more than fifty new co-workers from all over the world, each one bringing their unique personal and cultural contribution which add to the kaleidoscope of experiences on offer to our children and young people with additional support needs. As a school, our provision continues to evolve and we are now offering more fifty two week placements than ever before. In addition, our outreach service through the St Andrew’s Project, which supports children and young people in their homes and local school also continues to have more referrals. We were recently inspected by the Care Inspectorate and are happy to share that we continue to receive positive reports as the quality or our service remains paramount for us in these financially challenging times. This year sees the last group of Social Pedagogy students work and study their way towards their graduation at Aberdeen University; meanwhile we are in productive conversations with Robert Gordon University to develop a new Social Pedagogy degree course which we hope will entice potential students from across Scotland to come and study here. Our Annual Report 2012-13 will soon be out and copies can be got from any of the School offices. Laurence Alfred
St. Peter’s Heritage Trust
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he Centre is now closed for the winter months, having had a relatively busy six months, as have the Afternoon Teas. We reopen in early spring 2014.
Over the next few months, there will be a considerable amount of work carried out in preparing new displays, one of which will be commemorating the start of World War 1. Callum Stuart, the Trust Secretary, is currently working on a project which records all the men from Culter who died as a result of the First World War- more of this can be found in another part of the Courier. At the recent Trust AGM, Allan Pennie retired as Chairman. Allan has been Chairman since the inception of the Heritage Trust in 1999 and the Committee very much appreciate his immense 12
contribution to the development of the Heritage Trust. To celebrate Allan’s achievements for the Trust, a commemorative window will be placed within the Heritage Centre and hopefully this will be in place at the beginning of our new season in 2014. The new Chairman of the Trust is John Troup and Stuart Duncan, Vice Chairman. The next social event in the Hall is the very popular Carols and Mulled Wine Event which is being held on Sunday 15 December at 2 pm. The entertainment will be provided by singing group ‘Duty Free’ and our resident music group ‘Scotch Broth’. Posters will give further details nearer the time. The Heritage Hall is available for hire and there are a number of daytime and evening slots available. The Hall is also available for private functions. If you need more information, contact John Troup on 732701.
A HERO IN THE FAMILY?
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n 3rd October 1920, Lieut.Col. R. Bruce of the Gordon Highlanders unveiled the Culter War Memorial. He said, “… let it be for them a reminder of the sacrifice of life and an incentive for them to do their duty cheerfully. Let it also be an example to generations yet unborn of what the young men did for their country in the hour of need.”
Next year sees the start of a four year commemoration of that War with a series of events nationally and locally throughout the period. These are events which seem very distant now but, nearly 100 years later, perhaps you are unaware that you had a local war hero in your family. I am presently fully documenting the lives of the 68 men whose names appear on the Memorial and I would appreciate any information or photographs which you may have. There are families in Culter who may be unaware of a connection to these soldiers as most do not have
“direct” descendants. The Data Protection Act prevents the identifying of “living “ individuals but – The first name on the memorial Pte George ARTHUR, 7th Gordon Highlanders had 2 sisters Jessie Ann and Lily. Lily married a Mill Engine attendant -Walter Oliver. They lived at Brighton Place then Craigton Crescent. They had female twins. One of these, nieces of George Arthur, I realised lived two doors along from us in Malcolm Road for many years! Can I hear from any of the Burnetts please?. Also looking for NICOLS from Oriel Terrace… Updates at
Local artist and Bad Apples member Anita Inverarity curated the show where all the specially created works were inspired by “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” & “Alice Through the Looking Glass” As well as the wall pieces, we had a large selection of signed prints, cards & browser pieces available. This exhibition has been extended by appointment until January 2014. You are most welcome to arrange a visit by emailing Anita at
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from the Home Service or would like further information, call 01224 498930 or contact: Culter Library North Deeside Road Peterculter Telephone: 732587 Email: CulterLibrary@aberdeencity.gov.uk
ainver@f2s.com
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ell, after a wonderful summer’s hillwalking in sunshine and heat, it has been a blow to readjust to the thermal underwear, re-proof the jackets and overtrousers against the rain, and dig out the thermos flasks once more...
www.culter.net Callum Stuart: heritage@culter.net P.S. I am still looking for any photos or memorabilia from “The Culter Games” See a full list of all the Culter Men who are commemorated on the Peterculter War Memorial on page 25 The Memorial is situated on the hill above the Paper mill where many of them worked. (For those who have never been there, follow the path up behind Borsalino’s Restaurant. On your way, read the new inscription for our village entrance feature)
Alice & DoDo by Tanya Bond (Ireland)
library International Art Show Comes to Culter
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he rolling program of art exhibitions at the Heritage Hall have been very well attended this year. We have enjoyed a mixture of solo exhibitions & group shows from April to October.
During October, an International Collective presented their first UK exhibition based on the theme of “Alice in Wonderland” along with six special guests from our local art scene. The Bad Apples Artist Collective are a group of traditional artists from around the world with a mutual interest in Illustrative, Fantasy and Pop Surreal genres. The collective includes the high profile fantasy artist and Disney collaborator Jasmine Becket-Griffith.
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CULTER HILLWALKING CLUB
Books Delivered to your Door!
he Home Service Library is a free home delivery service for Aberdeen residents of all ages whose circumstances prevent them using their local library. Anyone who finds it difficult to get out of their own home without assistance, for example due to illness or disability, can apply to receive the service.
A monthly supply of books is delivered to the reader’s home by dedicated library staff. Books are carefully selected according to reader’s needs and tastes, and specific titles can also be reserved. As well as ordinary print books, we can supply large print books and talking books on cassette, CD and MP3. DVDs and CDs can also be borrowed at a small charge. 13
However, the autumn display of colour was superb, Glen Gairn’s birches shining butter yellow as we tackled Corbett Carn Mor above the Lecht – I know I say this every time, but the views truly were superb, from Bennachie in the east to the Cairngorms in the west, with Glen Livet an emerald bowl below us. An easy walk if you don’t mind a certain amount of squelch. Our weekend away to Invermoriston saw us tackling one of the big ridges above Glen Shiel – very different from our home turf. No more rounded pudding basins but very steep-sided hills, little heather, lots of coarse grass and amazing amounts of peat and water. Our thanks to Secretary Della for organising this. Other walks have been the Fungle, the ancient drove road from Aboyne to Glen Esk, and a trip round the Balmoral Cairns, including the elusive Princess Royal cairn. This walk was particularly memorable by accidentally meeting up with Her Majesty, who chatted to various of our group, confessing that although she has visited all the cairns, she has not managed them all in one day. On our part, we were suitably impress with her driving... If you are interested in any of our walks, do call Membership Secretary Della Russell 01330 820376 or visit our website www.culterhillwalking.org.uk Catherine Lacy
Peterculter Medical Practice
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ust to remind you that we have made some changes to our so-called ‘Extended Hours’ availability of appointments. This was part of the Government’s drive to increase access to GP’s outside normal ‘office hours’ introduced a few years ago. Having offered only Monday evening appointments since we started this, we are now able to offer appointments every 3rd Monday evening, early evening slots on most Tuesdays, and early morning appointments on most Thursdays. There will be a combination of telephone and face-to-face appointments available – ask reception for details. The ‘flu vaccine season started in early October, and we have been running our usual regular immunisation clinics targeting those in the publicised at-risk groups. Please remember that fit and healthy younger adults are not regarded as being at particular risk of ‘flu complications so are not recommended for routine NHS vaccination. Some companies will, however, offer this to their employees and the flu vaccine is available on a private basis via some pharmacies and other private medical organisations. Certain occupational groups are also routinely offered the vaccine e.g. Health Service staff. Finally, a reminder to check with us about festive closures in December & January, so that prescriptions can be ordered in good time. We generally always close for the Christmas and New Year public holidays, with urgent work covered being by NHS24 and GMED using the usual contact arrangements. Best wishes Dr Douglas Harris
City Warden Report Ring your bell
The City Wardens and Cults, Milltimber and Bieldside Community Council joined forces in September to improve safety on the old Deeside Railway line. City Wardens teamed up with the Community Council to carry out bicycle bell checks and encourage people to be considerate to other railway line users.
During the first bell check and fitting at the old Cults Station, one bell was fitted every three minutes. 132 cyclists passed the group in two hours, and 45 had no bell fitted to their bike. 40 cyclists got a free new bell sponsored by the local community. Those using the line are asked to follow the advisory rules: • Respect all other users of the path. • Make yourself heard. • Cyclists keep to the left. • Keep dogs and horses under control. • Stop if there is not enough space to pass. Useful Contacts:
• Antisocial Behaviour Investigation Team (ASBIT): 0845 606 6548 • Emergency Services: 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard, Mountain Rescue) • Police: (non-emergency) 111 • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 • Environmental Health: 01224 523737 (including Dog Warden)
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
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here have been a number of thefts from vehicles, both secure and insecure, across many areas of Aberdeen this month, and Police Scotland wish to reassure vehicle owners that we are doing all we can to address this and detect the culprits.
In the meantime, there is much that you can do to minimise the risk of becoming a victim of this type of crime, by following a few simple rules: a. Lock all car doors and close all windows even if parked on your driveway, in your garage, or on the street outside your house. b. Don’t leave anything on display in your vehicle, particularly computer equipment or smart phones. c. Take all belongings with you when you leave your car. If you can’t, remember to put them in the 14
locked boot. d. If you can, always remove your car stereo, Sat Nav or MP3 players as these are the most sought after items in your vehicle. e. Keep your keys safe. f. When parking your vehicle always try and avoid areas which are unattended, concealed from public view which have many escape routes for potential thieves to take. g. Finally, don’t forget to also lock the door of your home to prevent potential criminals from entering to steal your property, including the keys to your vehicle while you or your family are asleep. In the event that you do see anyone acting suspiciously in or around a motor vehicle, or indeed anywhere else, please contact the Police immediately on Tel. ‘101’ or, if an emergency, use ‘999’. Ross: 01224 646353 Dave 01224 861176
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CULTER YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB
ulter Youth FC welcomes Bryan Robson “Captain Marvel” to Aberdeen ... CYFC is pleased to announce former Man United & England Captain, Bryan Robson, to be their guest speaker at our Club Fundraising Dinner on Friday 21 February 2014 at the Hilton Tree Tops Hotel. The event is a celebration of thirty years of CYFC, along with the opportunity to fundraise to continue the Club’s development and provide facilities at the new pitch, such as floodlights and changing rooms. We expect the evening to be very popular, so if you are interested in getting tickets, a table or sponsorship, please get in touch with Paul Stein on 07860 378219 or on culteryouthfc@gmail.com 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 and new ideas/approaches are always welcomed. Please get in touch if you want to help out more. The Club has
started two new teams this season and is keen to expand further if new coaches can be found. Football Development Officers
Football Development Officers are a big part of the progression of the Club. These roles are to oversee a range of age groups, to give guidance and share expertise. 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 on culteryouthfc@gmail.com to find out what we can offer…
Dee-Ciders Walking Group
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oday is 22 October. I am starting back to front, so bear with me. Why? Because we have just come home from a wonderful walking day and I must tell you about it. The weather the previous evening was atrocious and the thought of donning all the waterproof gear didn’t make for a good beginning to the day. But loand-behold, today was dry and 16°C – stunning!
coming down to earth. These sights will be with the group for a few months to come. Now that I have my feet firmly on the ground, I’d better add a little more to the details of our walk. The Macdonalds claimed descent from the third son of John, Lord of the Isles. Tradition says that the Earl of Mar granted them their property after the Battle of Harlaw in 1411, when Macdonald was taken prisoner. At Remincras, this small kingdom had quite a collection of dwellings, which are still seen today even though they are ruins. All the residents were tenants, and the last to leave was in 1880. What a hard life these tenant farmers endured. The Remincras settlement still has the outline of longhouses, the kiln, the grain mill, as well as the mill dam, lade and sluice. Four adventurous colleagues went down to inspect this mill – no roof but still a very visible structure. Walking up from the mill, about 500 yards, is the Macdonald Aisle. Seemingly, Macdonald was a gentleman farmer and was entitled to a private burial ground, but why Aisle? I have found no explanation as yet. Maybe some readers of the old Scots will enlighten me. The journey home was even more spectacular, as the sun came out and the autumn colours glowed even more. Another spectacular day was near Tarland. We started off at Alstean Wood,
We were walking to Blairglass Remicras and past the Macdonald Aisle (the Macdonald burial place), which is a circular walk back down the Old Military Road where we had left the minibus. At 8:30 am, leaving Cults along the A93, we travelled towards Crathie. Autumn was in all its colourful glory, the glorious reds of the acers, the copper and russets of the horse chestnuts and oaks, the yellows and browns of the bracken which graced the roadside, and the pockets of stunning colours from the leafy larch trees. I was hypnotized all day by the beauty of the countryside. As we approached Balmoral Castle, there was a row of sycamores (I think) whose colours just took your breath away. If you missed these scenes this year, put it in your diary for next year. I am just 15
walking through the woods, across the road to find the path to Smallburn. We followed the red and blue waymarkers up this good but steepish path, through beech trees, right up to Pittenderich, 350 m above the village, giving great views of Deeside and beyond. On our way back, we went into the lovely gardens of Douneside House. We stopped to admire and read the inscription on the granite plinth of the Stirling Bomber named “MacRobert’s Reply,” donated by Lady MacRobert, along with a number of Hurricane Hawker fighter aircraft, to the RAF, in memory of her three sons – two killed on operational sorties when serving in 1941, and one in a flying accident. It was an emotional end to a rewarding day. Such a dedication of so many young men to give us the life we lead today. Jean Duff
Lava Jewellery Design
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ere we have another profile, to let you know more about our local businesses in Culter. Lava Jewellery Design is a husband and wife team who met in 1989 whilst studying jewellery at Gray’s School of Art, here in Aberdeen. After leaving, Jacqui took up a position in Carradale,
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New 7000 sq ft Indoor Play Den ● ● ● ●
Amazing Racing Slide and 4 Lane Astro Slide Climbing Wall Tower Giant Ball Canyon Awesome Sports Arena and much more! - New 140 Seater Restaurant and Party Rooms - Birthday Parties for all Ages from £10.99 - All weather attraction at Storybook Glen - The Glen offers more than 20 acres of active outdoor learning - Free Ample Parking
ENTRANCE FEES
Under 1’s Free 1-3 yrs £3.95 4+ yrs £4.95 Adults Free During busy periods admission is limited to 90 minutes
ENTRANCE FEES
Peak Prices (1st April – 31st October) Under 2’s Free Adults £5.60 2+ yrs £3.85 OAP’s £4.30 Off Peak prices (1st November – 31st March) Under 2’s Free Adults £4.60 2+ yrs £2.85 OAP’s £3.30
Argyll as a commission jeweller, and a few months later Duncan started work in Livingston for Carrick Jewellery, designing and producing the Charles Rennie MacIntosh ranges. Jacqui joined him there where they worked together for four years before wanting to return to Aberdeen and get married. Duncan returned to work at Sandy Menzies Jewellers in 1997 with Jacqui joining him back in Aberdeen to work for a retail company Harlequin Jewellers. They married in 1998 and bought a home in Peterculter. Six months later they were back working together, as Jacqui also joined SMDJ as retail manager, where Duncan was now workshop manager. In 2006, they decided to start Lava Jewellery Design from their garden shed! They worked ‘by appointment’ and had their Collections in twelve galleries around Scotland, attending trade events such as Aviemore Trade Fair and The Gathering, amongst others. On their Thirteenth Wedding Anniversary they got the keys to their first premises at 265 North Deeside Road and opened their jewellery studio/workshop in September 2011, after their daughter started Primary School in the village. Duncan is a keen duathalon attendee and has done the Highland Cross Duathalon for the past seven years. Jacqui is about to walk a portion of the Great Wall of China in 2014 to raise funds for her ward at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where she receives treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. There’s never a dull moment for the pair at Lava Jewellery Design!
Culter Football Club
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e have had a successful start to the 2013-2014 season. Up until now, we have only played three league games and won all of them.
319 North Deeside Road Peterculter AB14 0UL Tel: 01224 733773 Opening Hours Monday - Saturday 4.00 pm - 10.30 pm Sunday 4.00 pm - 9.00 pm 16
We are also scheduled play Banks O’Dee in the Grill Cup Final. Culter FC will play Ashfield in the 2nd round of the Scottish Junior Cup. As the club won the North Super League last season, we managed to qualify for the Williams Hill Scottish Cup along with two other Scottish Junior teams. In the 1st round we drew with Highland League team Lossiemouth 0-0 away from home and beat them in the replay 3-1 at Crombie Park. In the 2nd round, we were drawn away from home to Newton Stewart.
This was a gruelling 500 mile return journey. On the Friday evening the team and club officials stayed at the Holiday Inn at Hamilton to try and break the journey. The players responded with a magnificent 0-6 victory with our lethal front duel (Jim McAllister and Dod McBain) scoring five goals between them. In the 3rd round we have drawn 2nd Division team Berwick Rangers at Crombie Park on 2 November. This is a good draw (although hoping to be drawn with Glasgow Rangers!) as we are capable of matching most teams at home. We are hoping for a really good home support for the game and hopefully will bring back memories of the 3rd Round Scottish Cup tie with Partick Thistle in 2011, where we drew 1-1 with the full time 1st Division team. Players Pool
There were six players who retired last season, so we have made numerous signings for this season. Martin Crisp (Lewis Utd), Grant Pennet (Turriff Utd), Steve Rintoul (Banks O’Dee), Max Berton (Cove Rangers), Shaun Taylor (Kerrimiur) and Frank Smyth (Greenock Juniors). Hugh “Shuggy” Robertson came out of retirement 24 hours before the 1st Round Scottish Cup tie, due to the amount of players injured and on holiday. Jim McAllister was called up for the Scotland Juniors select, but unfortunately the international games clashed with the Scottish Cup 2nd round match so Jimer had to pull out, which was disappointing for himself and the club. Celebrity Dinner XXV11
The Culter FC Celebrity Dinner XXV111 will be held at Menzies Hotel, Dyce on 8 November. More details info in the Culter FC website.
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Alfie’s Trust
s we write, we are in the final stages of organising our Annual Tea and Coffee Afternoon. Our thanks go to the Culter Parish Church for allowing us to use the hall this year. We are so grateful for the continued support of the local community. Plans are underway for Alfie’s Trust to take part in Rare Disease Day on 28 February 2014. Rare Disease UK is the national alliance for people with rare diseases. They believe that everyone living with a rare disease should be able to receive high quality services, treatment and support. They work to increase public and professional knowledge of rare diseases and demonstrate the effect that these conditions can have on the patients and families living with them. Fundraising is a big part of the work that we do. With the success of RunBalmoral 2013 we are already signing up runners for next April. If you would like to run for Alfie’s Trust please contact us. When we are not fundraising, we are addressing the actions needed to better organize the global community of both patients and the clinical/research communities. This will help to build relationships and open communications among the professional communities. With your support it means that we can move forward to improve the care of patients, by promoting research that will identify effective treatments and ultimately a cure. Working with other
Sponsorship Packages
There are numerous sponsorship packages available, such as season tickets, match sponsors and pitch advertising boards. Please check the Culter FC website www.culterfc.co.uk for further details. The Hospitality Suite/Committee Room at Crombie Park is operational for pre-match sponsors and supporters. We welcome everyone to visit Crombie Park to watch and support Culter FC in season 2013-2014. The Culter FC website also keeps the supporters updated about all matters regarding Culter FC. Gordon Thomson Culter FC President 17
Patient Organisations, we are committed to providing support to patients and their families, educating the community, professionals, and the general public and to give hope to those affected by these rare lymphatic malformations. Tracy and Mark Milne Alfie Milne Lymphangiomatosis Trust
The Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside
P
resident Mike kicked off an exciting summer/autumn programme with a Film Quiz Night at Inchmarlo raising £600 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Since then we’ve had a string of great speakers, entertaining activities and informative visits, each closing with dinner in local restaurants shared with members and guests.
Members were welcomed back to Easter Anguston Farm and, along with other helpers and sponsors, were delighted to be invited to their recent Awards Ceremony to celebrate the year’s achievements. On 24 September, RCAD held their annual Public Speaking competition for Primary Schools at Culter Primary School. Twelve pupils from Kingswells, Public Speaking for Primary Schools Winners: Connors Strachan, from Milltimber (Sir Alex Ferguson), Maya Stafrace from Kingswells (John Muir), Anna George from Cults (Sean Connery) Adam Forbes from Culter (Sir Chris Hoy)
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Cults, Milltimber and Culter, participated. They were great ambassadors for their schools and talked entertainingly on either “A book I would recommend to a friend” or “A famous Scot”. The subject matter ranged from environmentalist John Muir, football manager Alex Ferguson and actor Sean Connery to Roald Dahl’s “Mr. Sugar stories” and J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. Each child had researched their chosen subject in depth and presented their talk with confidence and touches of humour. Parents, friends, staff and Rotarians were impressed by the quality of the talks and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. A winner was selected from each school, but Anna George of Cults Primary School took the overall trophy with her eloquent profile of Sean Connery. Open Evening
Come along and join us at The Cults Hotel, Wednesday 27 November, 7 pm. Find out more about the Rotary movement and how you can become involved over an informal supper. Fun, Fellowship, Fundraising, Foundation enables the Club to offer both hands-on and financial assistance to our local and international community. This vibrant, popular Club is committed to helping and supporting a variety of groups and organisations. For further information please contact: Quentin - 07764 939752 qtweedie@btconnect.com Mike - 07771 576012 m.rodgers@talktalk.net www.aberdeendeesiderotary.org.uk
IF NOTHING CHANGES, NOTHING CHANGES!
G
eorge and Lynne Taylor would like to take this opportunity to thank all customers who have already visited their shop with a difference at the new Highland Gourmet, in Peterculter. A warm welcome awaits those who have not made in yet what are you waiting for? George was brought up with the idea that when you see a “To Let” sign in a shop window, you see an opportunity. He set up a home delivery business three years ago, initially delivering 18
fresh fish from the Portlethen area. He then expanded the range into speciality meats to meet the demand from appreciative customers. He has been planning a shop for a long while, so using the invaluable experience gained from understanding his home delivery customer’s needs, now the dream is coming true! At Highland Gourmet, they source the finest local suppliers for their butchery and deli goods, as well as dry goods and a great gift selection. They aim to stock produce that you can’t get at supermarkets, while providing a friendly down-to-earth service. There is only one way to find out what they have … go and see them. They take special requests and are trying to make an great shop for the people of the Culter area to be proud of. They are certainly proud to have their business in your area for now and for years to come.
Cults Cricket Club
T
he Season of 2013 has been assigned to the annals of history. Truth be told, it was not one of the most memorable seasons for the Club. We appeared to have plenty players registered with the Aberdeenshire Cricket Association, but when it came to team selection, it was a different matter altogether. The Captains, Chris Forbes, Ed Spearman and Mark Munro had a difficult job in getting two sides out on a Saturday. The 1st XI lost in a low scoring match in the Aberdeenshire Cup Final and finished third in Grade 1. Not enough consistency from the players, but Chris, GG, Himanchu, Doug and Rahul all had their moments. The Grade 2 Cults/Artisans side finished bottom and were relegated. In a poor season, the only shining light was Scott Anderson’s maiden century for the Club and the blooding and contribution of more Juniors. This bodes well for the future. The Junior Section continues to flourish due to the coaching of Dave, Gerry, Mark and Steven. Cults CC is always on the lookout for players of all ages, so if you fancy a game please give me a call.
The Friends of the Allan Park continue to work closely with Aberdeen City Council. This gem of a Park has undergone a clean up and is looking all the better for it. The newly planted bulbs in the woodland area will be quite a show in the spring time. Thanks to the support given by Councillors Boulton and Malik. Finally, after many years service as both player and administrator, Ed Spearman stepped down from the Club. We will miss his contribution, but Ed has more time to follow England and Durham. Many thanks Ed. For any further information please contact Ian Sutherland on 01224 742833 or 07815 637407 thesutherlandfamily@btinternet.com
Cults Medical Group
F
irstly I would like to welcome back Dr Jodi West following the birth of her son. We would like to thank Dr Sandra Holmes for all her hard work and wish her well in her new post. We also have two new members of staff in our reception team, Yvonne Spalding and Lynn Sanders .
With the various new housing developments going up around Cults, we have had a larger than normal influx of new patients joining the Practice. As this can be a lengthy process, can I ask that patients wishing to register at Cults Medical Group please attend the surgery in an afternoon. There have been some changes this year to the National Immunisation Programme. Flu vaccinations will be available as normal for the over 65s and those in an “at risk” group. This year a new anti-shingles vaccine has been introduced for patients aged 70 and a catch up programme for those aged 79.
The Practice will send out letters inviting you in for this vaccination. The Scottish Government is also offering the flu vaccine to all two and three year olds which will be given at the Practice. A central letter of invitation will be sent out. Finally the Practice will be closed on 25 and 26 December reopening at 8 am on 27 December and 1 and 2 January, reopening at 8 am on 3 January. In case of a medical emergency, please contact NHS24 on 08454 242424 Thank you Tracey Wilson Practice Manager
at Kingswells and we shall, of course, also be making our annual appearance at the St Peter’s Heritage Hall’s Carols and Mince Pies afternoon on Sunday 15 December. Meantime we continue to enjoy playing together at our informal weekly sessions, with another fiddler joining us recently, 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. Christine Miller
SCOTCH BROTH
THE DEESIDE CHORISTERS
Traditional Music Group
W
e had a very busy time one weekend in September. On the Friday we provided background music for the Forecourt Art Group’s launch of their NEOS Exhibition in the very grand and awe-inspiring surroundings of the Chapel at Blairs College. We extended our repertoire yet again by including some popular and classical tunes as well as our usual Scottish, Irish and now American bluegrass music. The whole evening was quite an experience. Some members on this same evening were on stage at the Cowdray Hall for the weekend of concerts for Aberdeen’s ‘Get Inclusive’ Festival and even more of us appeared for a slot there as part of the same event on the Saturday, singing and playing. Great fun, in almost a nightclub atmosphere, with the crowd dancing to our music as well as listening. Our next ‘public engagement’ is for a private Tai Chi St Andrew’s Night
A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Mary’s, Blairs Saturday 7 December 2013 at 7 pm :: :: :: Admission Free Seasonal Refreshments Charity Collection ALL WELCOME! We are very pleased to announce that one of our choristers, David Ferguson, has been selected for Gareth Malone’s new choir - ‘Voices’. Only seventeen young singers were chosen out of about a thousand candidates! Their debut Album is being released on 15 November. The Deeside Choristers always welcome new singers aged seven and upwards - but particularly Tenors and Basses. Hope to see you at Blairs. For any futher information please call: Nancy Paul on 01224 74137
We are currently seeking the following staff to join our friendly team. PART TIME COOK (2 DAYS / WEEK) BANK LAUNDRY / DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS Applicants should be kind, caring, with a genuine interest in providing the highest standards for our residents. Please contact Louise or Jackie 01224 734718. eastleigh@pepperwoodcare.co.uk
• Car • Van • Tipper • LuTon wiTh TaiL-LifT
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W
e are very busy at the moment practising for our next engagement, which you are very welcome to attend:
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Salakhill Drumstation road Drumoak AB31 5AJ mark1garage@aol.com 19
Cults Learning Partnership Promoting Health and Wellbeing in Lower Deeside
C
ults Learning Partnership covers the communities of Lower Deeside. During the coming year, the group is to focus on promoting health and wellbeing. Part of this is to recognise how stress affects us and to make small changes that will positively affect how we feel about ourselves. While stress can be positive and motivate us to achieve things and enjoy life, the stress of daily life and dealing with difficult circumstances can sometimes make us feel low. So what can we do to help ourselves?
• Connect with people : keep in touch with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours • Be active : do something you enjoy as this will help look after your physical health. Walking, cycling, swimming, dancing are all good for your mental health. • Learn something new : this will give you a sense of achievement and build your confidence. Do that cooking or painting course, learn to play a musical instrument, or start growing your own food. • Get to know somebody new and give to others : other people have felt the same and can help you through difficult times. Volunteering can help you build new social networks and feel good about yourself.
• Become more aware of the present. We can lose touch with the way our bodies are feeling, and end up living in our heads, caught up in our thoughts without noticing how these thoughts are driving our emotions and behaviour. Yoga, tai chi or meditation can help. • Contact your GP or NHS Grampian Healthpoint (Freeline 0500 20 20 30) for more help, advice and support. Information is also available on www.stepsforstress.org We are currently looking for volunteers to champion health improvement in the community. An example is helping others develop practical food skills. Please get in touch for further information or if you want to discuss becoming a volunteer. Marlene Westland Public Health Co-ordinator Great Western Medical Practice Tel 01224 846771 marlene.westland@nhs.net
STANLEY Rothney 1923 - 2013 A Personal Tribute to a Special Culter Gentleman
S
tanley Rothney recently passed away peacefully at home in Culter on his 90th birthday. A very special man, respected and loved by many, he will be greatly missed by community, friends and family.
This tribute is not a record of his many achievements or his distinguished personal history but a tribute of thanks and
appreciation for a strong, principled, much respected honourable elder who quietly, wisely and with humour gave good advice through true friendship over almost forty years of association. We met offshore in the early days, with several hundred personnel and multiple air, sea and material interfaces to manage and keep safe round the clock. Working closely together and breaking new ground on a regular basis, Stanley’s experience, people skills and judgement were invaluable in helping guide development of successful processes and procedures dealing with security, safety and management of large disparate workforces living in close proximity for extended periods in testing circumstances. His wit and sense of humour grounded in North-Eastern pragmatism ensured we understood and benefitted from his sound advice and guidance. It was some time before I learned of his distinguished military and police background from others, but no surprise. After a period overseas I returned to Aberdeen to find him working in the Onshore Security team and our friendship developed, including mutual friends in the village. Sharing a military background, I was ‘encouraged’ to support the local branch of the British Legion, learning through mutual friends more of Stanley’s wartime and police service over many a ‘dram’. We rarely spoke of military matters other than Legion and Burma Star Association events in the annual calendar of commitments. Most months we would meet at the house of George Shaw, another Burma Star Association veteran and close friend, to continue my ‘education’ in local and historical matters at the hands of these ‘elder’ mentors.
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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
Stanley moved to a position at the Shell Club and Sports Centre at Woodbank in Cults, which he much enjoyed in his final working days. Following his retirement, we continued to share evenings with George and more recently, when family commitments allowed, he would join us occasionally for a Christmas or New Year dinner. George passed on and from then on I visited Stanley at home (usually with a bottle) and we continued to enjoy ‘drams’ and exchanges of ‘news’ until the end. A true Gentleman, family man and worker for good he set a fine example to follow. God bless you Stanley, it has been a privilege to know you, you are remembered with honour and much affection. DJW
Calling all Meston Relatives!
I
am hoping to trace relatives of the late William Meston, who was born in Peterculter and died in 1965, aged 77. He was a founder member of the Culter Boys’ Brigade, taught at Culter School for some years and is buried in St. Peter’s Churchyard.
Mr. Meston was unmarried and childless, but I hope that there may be family members living locally. I have a few photographs and other articles belonging to him. These things have no monetary value, but would be of interest to anyone related to him. Please contact Mrs Erika Fairhead. Telephone 01224 861926.
Eastleigh Care Home
I
t has been a busy three months at Eastleigh.
Pepperwood Care (Management) Ltd took over as Registered Provider of Eastleigh in July. Since then, we have been delighted to welcome many new residents and staff. Our care home is certainly a hive of activity, and we are always pleased to welcome friends old and new to pop in for a cup of coffee or a look around. Our social calendar has been filling up, with (amongst many other activities) regular visits from entertainers, a popular Cheese & Wine evening, Friday afternoon karaoke, domino games and quizzes. We also have our Halloween and Christmas parties planned. We are looking forward to some further refurbishment. We have some external repair work ongoing at time of writing, whilst inside the building, we are looking forward to a refurbished bathroom, shower room, laundry, and corridor carpet on the ground floor. A new nurse call system has been ordered for Eastleigh. This will be of great benefit to the care of our residents. We very much appreciate the support extended to Eastleigh from the local community, and look forward to keeping you updated with news. Louise Marshall
Don’t forget to tell advertisers you saw their advert in the Culter Courier!
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V
VSA News
SA’s annual Tartan Proam Golf Tournament and Fundraising Dinner swung into success, raising over £37,000 for VSA’s Family Contact Centre.
Aberdeen’s largest social care charity, VSA held their annual golf event on 15 August at the Aboyne Golf Course with a fundraising dinner to raise money for VSA’s Family Contact Centre. The centre is a volunteer-run facility where children from separated families can spend valuable time with the mum or dad who no longer lives with them. VSA’s Family Contact Centre can help when contact is hard to achieve for practical or personal reasons. The event attracted thirty two teams, with one Scottish Golf Professional playing in each team of four. The tournament was followed by a prize giving dinner at the Marcliffe Hotel where 150 guests enjoyed a Pimms reception followed by a fantastic dinner. The after-dinner entertainment, Drew McAdam left the audience speechless with his astounding mindplay. Also during the evening an auction took place along with a heads and tails competition and a raffle. In thanking all of the sponsors and guests for their generosity, VSA Trustee Andrew Forsythe announced the day had raised a staggering £37,735. We are also delighted to announce that next year’s Tournament will be held at the scenic and challenging Deeside Golf Club on 15 May. Teams booking before the end of December will qualify for special discount rates.
Linn Moor School
A
Great Gatsby themed ball held on 2 November raised a staggering £120,000 supporting VSA’s Linn Moor School, here in Culter.
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Aberdeen’s largest social care charity, VSA hosted their annual fundraising ball at Ardoe House Hotel with over 300 guests enjoying dinner and dancing while raising money to support children of the North East with Autism and learning disabilities. Among the guests were the parents of Lewis, who is a student at Linn Moor School. His father Graham is a great supporter of the school and this year ran the London Marathon to raise money for Linn Moor. Graham described the school as a positive and promising environment for his son who cherishes his time there. The school supports and encourages the development of essential academic and life skills allowing students to have the brightest possible future. The live auction showcased their biggest ever lot item – dinner on board the Royal Yacht Britannia for 10 people, which was awarded to a very generous bidder for £10,000! A very big thank you must go to all of our table hosts, individuals and companies who donated items for our auction and raffle.
Culter Danscentre News
Now Exhibiting Local Artists 257 North Deeside Road, Peterculter Telephone: 733100
S
unday 3 November is going to be an exceptionally exciting day for two groups of dancers from Danscentre in Aberdeen. Danscentre has students from all over the city and shire including students from Peterculter and Cults, with classes in both places. The groups have been selected from numerous entries worldwide to appear in Dance Proms 2013 at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
Dance Proms is a partnership project between the IDTA, RAD and the Royal Albert Hall, all working together in celebration of dance and to inspire creativity. Dance Proms is designed to showcase the high standards of dance and dance teaching around the world 22
3. Nothing:
Albert Hall here we come!
This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine. 4. Go Ahead:
This is a dare, not permission. Don’t Do It! 5. Loud Sigh:
This is not actually a word, but is a nonverbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to No. 3 for the meaning of nothing.) 6. That’s Okay:
This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That’s okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
7. Thanks:
and aims to raise standards and increase participation and appreciation of dance. Dance organisations were invited to video and submit a short dance piece featuring original choreography of any dance genre performed by their pupils. An esteemed panel of professionals selected twenty acts to perform at the Royal Albert Hall, one of the world’s most iconic and prestigious venues. Of the twenty acts selected perform at the event Danscentre is extremely proud to announce that two separate Danscentre groups have been chosen. The first of the two pieces to be performed is a Ballet entitled ‘My Space’ performed by a group of 11-12 year olds. The second piece will be performed by a group of 15-21 year olds and is a Contemporary piece entitled “Hide and Seek” In addition to the thirty two girls participating in the event, there are also seven boys, which highlights the growing number of boys participating in dance. In order for the groups to make the trip to London, substantial rehearsals and fundraising activities have taken place. Rehearsals have taken place all over Aberdeen, including Peterculter Village Hall, in preparation for the performances and fundraising events have included coffee and cake sales, sponsored silences, supermarket bag packing and lots more.
Danscentre would like to thank everyone for supporting the fundraising activities. Without such support the children would not be able to participate in this once in a lifetime experience of dancing at the Royal Albert Hall.
C
Sarah’s Bright Charity
ulter Primary School had a “Dress in Bright Clothes Day on the last Friday of term. They raised £390.15. This initiative was done in conjunction with Sarah’s Bright Charity. The money will be given to Grampian Childrens Leukaemia Research Fund. Many thanks are due to all families who participated and donated to this local charity.
NINE WORDS WOMEN USE
A woman is thanking you, do not question or pass out. Just say “You’re welcome”. (I want to add in a clause here - this is true, unless she says “Thanks a lot” - that is sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say “You’re welcome” - that will bring on “Whatever”). 8. Whatever:
Is a woman’s way of saying F-- YOU! 9. Don’t worry about it, I’ll do it:
Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking ‘What’s wrong?’ For the woman’s response refer to No. 3 above.
Maryculter Bridge
T
he following extracts are taken from a book published in 1921 called
1. Fine:
This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up. 2. Five Minutes:
If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the match before helping around the house. 23
‘The Old Deeside Road : Its Course, History and Associations’ written by G. M. Fraser. It is interesting to compare the similar nature of the new Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route works and those carried
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out in the 1890s, but also to contrast the changes in attitude over local support for the scheme. Not sure that land would be given for free any more! Flooding in Culter is also nothing new … “ Immediately west of Milltimber Station we come to the road leading down to Maryculter Bridge over the Dee, a most useful structure, provided by public subscription, and opened for public use on 13th September, 1895. The bridge is approached from the North Deeside road by way of the Milltimber Station road, then by a new road constructed under the railway, partly on the old farm road of Milltimber. The making of that new approach to the new bridge was such an interesting part of the scheme that the following detailed description of it, written at the time of the opening of the bridge, will be useful: Beyond this point (the railway line), the existing farm road has been widened and formed for a distance of 220 yards, after which the road proceeds in a straight line across the fields, On Sir R. W. Duff ’s Culter estate, to the new bridge. This new road through the fields replaces the old farm road, which has been trenched up, and is now under cultivation. The new road is carried on an embankment, the materials for which were obtained from the deep cutting on the north side of the railway. A culvert was formed in a hollow portion of the field to allow any water, which might, during floods, find its way over or through the flood banks into the fields, to drain and join the river farther down stream. Crossing the bridge, the road on the Kincardine side runs parallel to the boundary wall between the estates of Kingcausie and Maryculter for a distance of 200 yards, and joins the South Deeside road at a point about 100 yards east of the Mill Inn. The land has been given free by the proprietor of Maryculter, Mr. Cosmo Duff Gordon. From the Aberdeen Free Press 14th September 1895 In the region of Maryculter Bridge the great flood of October, 1920, did immense damage. Opposite Peterculter Church (now the Heritage Centre) the river broke into its old course on the south side on Inch of Culter, and swept eastward behind the ferry cottages
Peterculter War memorial :: First World war These are the names of the men that died from our village. Contact callum@culter.net if you can provide any family history. Private George Arthur Private Alexander Beattie Private David Hird Bennett Private Duncan Gordon Bisset Private Harry Gordon Bissett Private Alfred John Caie Corporal Frederick A Caie A.B. John Mair Cowie Private Alexander Sutherland Crichton Private William M. Crichton Private George Allan Cumming Private George Gordon Davidson Private John Gordon Donald Private Ben Gordon Dunbar Lance-Corporal George Low Duncan Corporal James Duncan Private Percy Gordon Edwards Regimental Sgt Major Alexander Ewen Private George Gordon Farquhar Private Charles E Gibb Sergeant William Barrow Gill Stoker John Ewen Glennie Gordon Private William Lawrence Gray Private Alexander Gordon Hardie Private Andrew C.F. Harper Private George Hall Harper Private George A. Henderson Company Sgt Major John Henry Humphries Sergeant John Leonard Captain William Leslie Lance-Sgt Hugh Leith Lorimer Corporal Peter Low M.M. Corporal Alexander Mackie Private Alexander Mann Engineman James Mann Private William G. Marshall Private James McAllan Private John McDonald Private Walter McDonald Stoker Alexander John McPherson Staff Sgt John Anderson Mennie Private Leslie Anderson Mennie Private Joseph A Michie Private William C. Michie Private James Fowler Milne Private Keith Mitchell Gunner George Birnie Morgan Private Charles Morton A.B. Albert C. Nicol  Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Pirie Private Alexander Burnett Fraser Reid Second Ltnt James Davidson Rennie Private Frank Ross Private William Bruce Scott Private Alexander Forrest Shepherd Sergeant John Shepherd Second Lieutenant Ian Skene M.C. Private Joseph Skene Lance Corporal Alexander Smith Private David Burnett Smith Rifleman Francis Kennedy Smith Private Robert Smith Lieutenant Joseph Charles Stewart Private James Stuart Private William Stuart Private George Thain Private William Milne Urquhart Private Peter Watt
th
7 Gordon Highlanders st 1 Scots Guards Canadians nd 2 Highlanders nd 2 Highlanders th 4 Gordon Highlanders st 1 Gordon Highlanders Royal Navy Drake Battalion RND Royal Engineers th 7 Gordon Highlanders Machine Gun Corps th 4 Highlanders Highlanders st 1 Highlanders th 7 Gordon Highlanders Canadian Mounted Rifles nd 2 Highlanders Canadian Ordinance Corps th 7 Highlanders nd 2 Seaforth Highlanders st 1 Gordon Highlanders Royal Navy H.M.S. Hampshire nd 2 Kings Own Scottish Borderers th 5 Highlanders th 4 Gordon Highlanders th 8 Gordon Highlanders Machine Gun Corps Royal Army Medical Corps Royal Marine Artillery HMS Cochrane Royal Garrison Artillery Gordon Highlanders th 7 Gordon Highlanders th 15 Highland Light Infantry th 5 Australian Infantry Royal Navy Reserve HM Drifter Freuchny th 4 Gordon Highlanders st 1 Gordon Highlanders nd 2 Gordon Highlanders Northumberland Fusiliers Royal Navy H.M.S. Hampshire Royal Army Service Corps Depot th 75 Canadians th 4 Gordon Highlanders th 7 Gordon Highlanders Machine Gun Corps th 7 Gordon Highlanders Royal Garrison Artillery th 6 Gordon Highlanders RN Royal Marines Hawke Battalion RND th 4 Gordon Highlanders th 10 Gordon Highlanders th 5 Gordon Highlanders th 5 Canadian Infantry th 5 Gordon Highlanders th 4 Gordon Highlanders th 7 Gordon Highlanders th 8 Lancashire Fusiliers th 4 Gordon Highlanders th 5 West Yorkshire Regiment th 4 Gordon Highlanders Rifle Brigade 7th Gordon Highlanders Q.V.O.L. Cavalry th 7 Gloucesters th 13 Royal Scots st 1 Gordon Highlanders nd 2 Gordon Highlanders th 7 Gordon Highlanders
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died 1917 Sep 5 died 1915 Jan 15 died 1816 Apr 16 died 1918 Apr 11 died 1917 Sep 28 died 1915 Oct 5 died 1916 Apr 29 died 1917 Jan 27 died 1917 Dec 11 died 1916 Nov 13 died 1917 May 17 died 1916 Jul 22 died 1916 Aug 17 died 1915 Sep 25 died 1915 May 2 died 1916 Oct 12 died 1914 Oct 29 died 1915 April 23? died 1916 Nov 14 died 1917 Oct 4 died 1916 Jul 24 died 1916 Jun 5 died 1918 Apr 12 died 1916 Aug 18 died 1917 Sep 17 died 1917 Jan 15 died 1917 Aug 2 died 1918 Dec 11 died 1916 Jan 18 died 1916 Jan 12 died 1916 Nov 14 died 1918 Jul 20 died 1918 Oct 1 died 1915 Jun 28 died 1916 Jan 8 died 1917 Nov 22 died 1914 Nov 18 died 1914 Nov 14 died 1918 Mar 29 died 1916 Jun 5 died 1920 Feb 17 died 1917 Sep 2 died 1917 Jun 1 died 1916 Aug 1 died 1915 May 2 died 1917 Sep 21 died 1919 Mar 31 died 1917 Nov 6 died 1918 Oct 11 died 1917 Sep 20 died 1917 Aug 23 died 1917 Apr 9 died 1914 Dec 5 died 1918 Mar 2 died 1918 Mar 25 died 1916 Dec 21 died 1918 Apr 13 died 1917 Jul 20 died 1917 Dec 4 died 1918 Jul 8 died 1918 Apr 13 died 1915 May 2 died 1916 Feb 7 died 1915 Jun 18 died 1916 Sep 16 died 1918 Oct 29 died 1916 Oct 13 died 1916 Nov 13
age 23 age 18 age 28 age 30 age 30 age 18 age 23 age 39 age 32 age 24 age 24 age ? age 21 age 19 age 22 age 23 age 29 age 32+ age 20 age 36 age 21 age 19 age 19 age 37 age 20 age 26 age 27 age 62 age 38 age 31 age 26 age 23 age ? age 27 age 44 age ? age ? age 27 age ? age 19 age 24 age 27 age 25 age 20 age 19 age 24 age 43 age 22 age 21 age 19 age 21 age 20 age 18 age 24 age 24 age 36 age 26 age 19 age 25 age 21 age 19 age 44 age ? age 29 age 38 age 32 age 21 age 18
there, carrying crops with it. In line with that it broke into the north bank, flooding the low-lying fields, and sweeping over the Maryculter bridge road (partly destroying it) it rejoined the river in the neighbourhood of Waterside Croft, below the bridge. The flood-culvert constructed under the bridge road in 1895 was found quite inadequate in this great spate.”
The Ploughman Mine Hosts: Graeme & Shirley Wight
Bar & Pool Room • Lounge & Dining Room For Table Reservations, Telephone 733365 • Trained in London by
Vidal Sassoon and LINDA’S Toni & Guy • Professional modern HAIR salon in my Milltimber home STUDIO ...simply the best!
INTRODUCTORY OFFERS Highlights : £65 - £85 : 1 - 3 colours inc. cut & blow dry Tint Roots : £55 inc. cut & blow dry Seniors : £30 cut & blow dry Home visits by appointment Kids and Dads welcome!
Tel : 01224 733250 Mob : 07947 437536
9 Braehead Terrace, Milltimber Free parking, 2nd on right up Contlaw Brae
This fascinating book can be borrowed from Aberdeen City Library.
I
From The Editor
am delighted to announce that we have a new member of the Courier team. Nicola Winter has joined us, to take over Advertising from the tireless Anne Russell, who needs a break!
Anne has been a dynamo within the Courier, looking after the seventy or so advertisers that we have in every issue. Her logistical control of the process has to be seen to be believed! She has been a crucial part of the Courier and I could not have taken up as Editor without her help and support. Thank you Anne, from me and from the people of Culter. I would also like to thank our layout designer Duncan Rennie, who has been putting the Courier together for twenty one years! He decided to retire after the May issue this year. Duncan has been a critical part of the Courier, dealing calmly with everything that we could throw at him. He started on the Courier with Marjory Skinner and we are all very grateful to him for all his efforts, despite moving from Culter to Fettercairn! We have also moved into the 21st Century by creating a new email address for all advertising enquiries and communication:
courieradverts@gmail.com We will also be updating our banking, so advertisers please note that the account details will be changing. A letter will be sent to all advertisers giving the new arrangements and contact information.
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Our Treasurer, Ian Langtry, has also stepped down from his role, after looking after our accounts for us. Thank you Ian for your time and energy. Finally, I would like to personally thank Ann Wakefield and the team of deliverers, who bring the Courier to you. Some 3,200 copies are distributed throughout Culter as well as out to Drumoak and Maryculter. Anne Russell, in particular, delivers by car to all the outlying areas - a round trip of about sixty miles. If anyone would like to take this task over, she would be delighted. Petrol would be paid for, and the scenery is lovely! Please contact me if you could help. Philippa Matthew cultercourier@ gmail.com
Grampian Decorative and Fine Arts Society 2013- 2014 Programme The GDFAS season of lectures got off to a splendid start in September and there are many more in the pipeline for this season. 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. The remaining lectures for the season are:November 13 December 4 2014 January 8 February 12 March 12 April 9 May 14 June 11
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.
Letter to the Editor
S
irs - Congratulations and thank you to the team of Culter residents who have made our village beautiful, with lots of colour this Spring and Summer. We have been treated to great displays of colourful tubs and baskets all along the North Deeside Road and now we have a sculpture of St Peter at the start of the village at the North end. Thank you from a grateful resident. Unfortunately, our lovely area in Kennerty is being spoilt by an ugly basket ball stand. M. Macpherson
We are still looking for volunteers to deliver the Courier. Your time equals money raised to fund Culter projects. Call Ann Wakefield 733273 And thank you to all our existing loyal deliverers
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 27
All calls cost 15p total TextRelay users dial 1 800 1 101 Add “Police 101” to your mobile. www.scotland.police.uk/101
Culter Community Council Philippa Matthew Catherine Lacy Ian Langtry Lavina Massie Ann Wakefield Anne Russell Judith Dack Ivan Krapivin
Culter Courier
739181 Chair 733710 Secretary 734910 Treasurer 732084 Planning / Vice Chair 733273 733384 Allan McKenzie 734455 734569 Brian Yule 733307 739041 Julia Crighton 735312
Editor : Philippa Matthew 01224 739181 email: cultercourier@gmail.com
Culter Community Council Meetings:
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.
Held at the Pop-In on North Deeside Rd at 7 pm on: Tues 10 December, Weds 22 January 2014, Thurs 20 February. The AGM is on Mon 18 November 2013. Minutes are held at Culter Library.
Corrie Café
Coronation Court, School Road Hot Meals available to the General Public for just £2.50! Come and join us at Coronation Court
C ourier De a d line Articles and adverts to be submitted by Weds 22 Jan Out on: 14 Feb
Now open from 12.30 pm - 4.30 pm Monday to Friday
Fiona Webster MSST Dip ST Dip FRYOG 10 Kennerty Park Peterculter AB14 0LE
SPORTS THERAPIST & YOGA TEACHER ɶɶ ɶɶ ɶɶ
There will be a choice of two Main Meals each day
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Cults Academy PTA
Christmas Gift and Craft Fair
Cults Academy 24 November 2013 12.00 - 4.00 pm
Many varied stalls & great raffle prizes
Adults £3.00 Children/Concessions £1.50
Advertising : Nicola Winter 01224 901297 51 Malcolm Rd Peterculter AB14 0XA email: courieradverts@gmail.com
Includes mince pies and mulled wine
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Sports Injuries, back pain, sprains, strains and chronic pain Sports Massage Yoga for fitness, flexibility, strength, tone, relaxation and focus Yoga class on Friday 0930 – 1100 at 9, The Courtyard, Cults. All abilities welcome, book in advance. Yoga one-to-one sessions available Phone 07977 790 648 for all queries E:mail fiona@pulsesportstherapy.com www.pulsesportstherapy.com
Culter Classifieds 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
Forthcoming Events 2013/2014 Sunday Lunches now being served every Sunday Murder Mystery Evenings : Friday 29th November Friday 21st February 2014 Friday 21st March 2014 Christmas Day & Hogmanay Ball : Bookings now being taken Burns Nights : Friday 24th and Saturday 25th January 2014 Gourmet Evening : Friday 7th March Call now to make your reservations
01224 732124
Email conferences@maryculterhousehotel.com www.maryculterhousehotel.com 28
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 & PRIVATE Lessons Coran Gladstone-Noble BSYA British School of Yoga Associate www.yogabycoran.com • 01224 917288 Physics Tutor National 5, Higher or Advanced Higher Physics Call or text Chris on 07860 864351