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island news Edition 30

October 2014

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& ADVERTISER

CRUISE BOOST TO ISLES ECONOMY

MV Corinthian.

Cruise liner MV Corinthian will start calling at Lochmaddy’s new marina next year, bringing ashore 100 American travellers each time. Grand Circle Cruise Line of Boston bought Corinthian earlier this year to offer upmarket tours to discerning retirees. As part of its British Isles tours, already fully booked, the ship will call at Barra, Lochmaddy and Stornoway next season. The passengers are on inclusive deals, meaning they will all come ashore, with an average spend of £45 a head in their ports of call. Grand Circle’s regional manager Diane Maclennan said: “Our passengers are looking to experience the beauty of the Outer Hebrides, and are keen to ask questions and be informed of what life is like on the islands, including the culture and history.” The ship will anchor in Lochmaddy bay, and passengers will be brought ashore via the

MV Corinthian will call in at Barra, Lochmaddy and Stornoway.

pontoons for around two hours. The party will travel in four locally-hired coaches, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides. They will tour North Uist, visiting local landmarks and lunching locally. Mrs Maclennan said: “We try to give back to the communities that we visit through using local people, offering local products and supporting local enterprises.” Grand Circle chose to come to the Outer Hebrides on the recommendation of North Uist man James MacLetchie, their senior programme director on their Round Britain programme. Mrs Maclennan said: “James’s passion for the islands is infectious and we couldn’t have

done it without him. He can’t wait to show people these beautiful islands.” Mr MacLetchie said: “Americans have more chance of winning the lottery than of meeting Hebrideans. “This is an opportunity to promote what’s best about the islands. The passengers want to meet islanders when they go on excursions and to get a taste of island life.” Activities will also take place on board with visits from local speakers, singers and musicians. Grand Circle says it plans to increase its Outer Hebrides sailings in 2016.

Mr MacLetchie said: “This is an opportunity for all of us, now that the marina permits the safe landing of passengers.”

All funds raised will go towards helping The Sandpiper Trust provide defibrillators across remote and rural areas of Scotland.

The Scottish Salmon Company would like to thank members of the public, contractors and the communities of Lewis, Harris, Uists and Benbecula for their support and generosity during our fundraising event, the Salmon Run. Almost 90 staff from across our company took part, running, cycling and rowing 350 miles from the Outer Hebrides to Arran, with an additional stage in Edinburgh.

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INBRIEF

island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

ThankYou The family of the late Carl Stuart MacPhee (Dodos) would sincerely like to thank all the people and the community and further afield for all the support that they have given us during this very difficult and sad time. We would particularly like to thank the following: Angus MacPhee Funeral Director for such caring and professional service.

Martin Matheson, Fr Matthew Powers, Fr Ross & Fr Micheal for their spiritual comfort to us through this time, QinetiQ Hebrides for their great support and organisation of the funeral teas and funeral order of service, Barra, Eriskay, Southend, Benbecula, North Uist Football Clubs, Uist & Barra Football Association and the Junior Football Club for their support and floral tributes but in particular to Iochdar Saints Football Club for their support and comfort as they have also lost a good team mate& Friend. To all people that came to visit us, sent cards, and messages of support and also good funny memory messages of Carl and to all who attended

Funding Boost for Little Adventurers e at Barra Children’s Cer 5’sntr active play sessions in

unde Barra Children’s Centre’s new extension once it’s completed later this month. Funding will pay for a sessional play leader for one year and the purchase of outdoor and indoor play equipment including wheeled toys, water play, den building, and balance equipment along with outdoor ort supp to used The money will be rs blackboards and a new storage shed. the costs of running Little Adventure

Barra Children’s Centre (BCC) has received a funding boost thanks to players of a charity lottery. The organisation was awarded £2794 by People’s Postcode Trust, a grant-giving charity, funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Cuddling Clyde

Maggie Howarth

Charlotte Clowes, 3, of Bearsden in Glasgow, giving Clyde a big hug at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Charlotte’s grandfather Angus Walker comes from Daliburgh in South Uist.

Student journalist

Siân MacLeod

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Local construction company gives back y Support by Uist construction compan th Sou that MacInnes Bros (MIB) ensured d pete com e Phe Uist athlete Kerry Mac with a top of the range bike in the Commonwealth Games. Gravel donated by MIB has also seen the paths improved in the Sensory Garden in East Camp, Benbecula. . Kerry’s £8,800 bike is a Trek Superfly with t, She said: “It is carbon, very ligh ar internally routed cables and handleb is It out. lock mounted suspension fantastic and incredible to ride, a fab

island news & ADVERTISER

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Kerry at the Commonwealth Games.

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Colonsay

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l on the Bill Armour and Dave Goss lay the grave sensory garden path.

to piece of kit to help me as I continue ntain mou in l compete at the highest leve biking.” ered Several tonnes of gravel chips deliv now have en Gard ory Sens by MIB to the rs ntee volu l loca by path the on been laid p Cam East of our Arm Bill ding inclu tina Horticultural Trust and Dave and Mar ity mun Goss of Benbecula North Com

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Glasgow

Thank You. Ronnie, Helena, Brendan, Stephanie, Abigail & Charlene. 16 Rhugashinish, South Uist

Julie and friends play Lochmaddy Hotel

Julie and Friends at Lochmaddy Hotel.

Susy Macaulay Administration

Friday evening service and saturday’s funeral service especially those that came from the mainland to say their goodbyes. Thank you also to staff of Congreve House for their hospitality. We would like to thank everyone who donated to Iochdar Playing Fields Association a sum of £1610 has been raised so far. We very much appreciate what you have all done for us.

in the Dave said: “The Sensory Garden is many of one is and ect local plan as a proj in.” lved invo get to ts wan C projects BNC

North Uist singer Julie Fowlis joined local musicians for a session in the bar of Lochmaddy Hotel. The mini-gig was filmed by Glasgow-based production company Bees Nees for a six-part documentary series for BBC Alba. Uist musicians Iain MacDonald, Anna Wendy Stevenson and Simon Bradley and friends joined Julie for a rousing set, to the appreciation of hotel guests. The series, entitled Port, travels around Scotland and Ireland looking at the strong musical heritages of the two countries. Julie is joined in the documentary by old friends, Irish musicians Muireann Mic Abhlaibh (flute, vocals) Sile Denvir (clarsach) and Domachd Gough (bodhran and bagpipes). Producer Alasdair MacCuish, whose family comes from Balranald, North Uist said: “It’s great to come home and film something bringing together the Irish and Uist piping traditions. “Filming in North Uist included Telford Church, Berneray, Flora MacDonald’s bothy in Carinish and Rhona Lightfoot teaching canntaireachd.” The series is planned for transmission in January 2015.

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October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

Post-Referendum reflection Lewis author Donald S Murray has been reflecting on what the Referendum might have revealed to us about ourselves, our elected representatives and our parliamentary democracy.

Donald S Murray.

Travelling down through Scotland the morning after the Referendum was like encountering a kaleidoscope of the different responses the country’s population had given to the question. One moment I was in a ferry near the shores of Orkney with its emphatic no; the next I was driving through Dundee with its equally loud chorus of yes. And on my way, I journeyed through Angus, Stirling, Aberdeen with all their different shades of opinion, finally reaching my destination in Glasgow where a state of independence had also been proclaimed. Despite the verdict of Scotland’s largest city, however, it was clear by this time that the dye had been cast in an entirely different colour. The union was still to be retained. Yet it seemed to me that - almost regardless of the result - much had been altered by the contest. What passed for our parliamentary democracy had slipped from the hands of the precious few who

had been previously involved. We had in the process been forced to examine where our true borders lie, as much between rich and poor as between Scotland and England. For that insight, we should all - whether on the unionist or nationalist side of the argument - be truly grateful. We should also be pulled up short and reprimanded. There is much that is failing about our parliamentary democracy. While there is a great deal of which we can be proud, the system has serious faults. For all that modern communication makes contact between MP and constituency easier than ever before, this tends to be cascaded continually upon the populace below by those we have elected. Too much is also decided centrally without much contact with those who live on the edges, far away from power. This has to alter. People need to be given greater rights to question their representative both in Holyrood and Westminster, to hold them continually to account. Power requires also to be given back to the periphery, and not tugged continually from their grasp.

This is particularly the case when there is a crisis in a community, whether caused by a threat to jobs, health-care or education. There should be a guarantee of openness, transparency and accountability on a representative’s part if or when these circumstances arise, that the population have, in short, a right to a response to their questions. This could take the form of an oath when an individual is elected - one in which he swears his primary loyalty is to the interests of the constituency and not to party politics, where he or she agrees to answer questions as thoroughly as they can. It would also remind both ‘them’ and ‘us’ that the most important part of politics is to serve and not be served, to be concerned with wide humanity rather than narrow self-interest. One is aware this is a difficult task to undertake. People tend to possess a kaleidoscope of views and opinions; each one emerging from the ground in which they are raised, the homes and situations they come from. Yet it is still essential. If we are to improve what Churchill termed one of the worst forms of government in the world, until we consider the others, we have no other choice.

Launching FilmG 2014. Kerry with pupils from Sgoil Lionacleit.

Kerry is Scottish Mountain Bike Champion South Uist’s Kerry MacPhee found herself on the Scottish Championship podium for the tenth time after a gruelling race in the Scottish Cycling National Championships in Dalbeattie last month. This time she was crowned Scottish Mountain Bike Champion. The Team Scotland Commonwealth Games veteran led from the gun and won by more than 10 minutes. Kerry said: “It was a longer than usual race at 8km a lap and took 1hr 50mins to compete four laps. “I have been busy most of August getting over the games, coming to Uist to speak to kids and a short break to Denmark so it was a shock to the system racing again. “It really hurt but I was able to make myself carry on and clinch the victory. “It is now my tenth time atop a Scottish Championship podium having been Scottish Champion in Duathlon, off-road triathlon and Cycling Hill Climb over the last 4 years but first time as Mountain Bike Champion.” Kerry is now looking forward to cyclocross over the winter and “lots of hard work.” Kerry was also in Uist last month to talk to Sgoil Lionacleit pupils on the launch of this year’s FilmG. Her speech was inspirational and motivational as she detailed her journey from when she first picked up a second hand bicycle costing £30 from Recyke-a-Bike, to success in the 2013 World Island Games and onwards to her race in the Commonwealth Games this summer. She talked of the commitment, determination and discipline she needs on a daily basis to spur her towards her goals, and encouraged her audience to show the same focus and self-belief. Her parting advice to the pupils was to take every opportunity you can, test your limits and to have fun by doing what you enjoy.

4SCOTS on recruiting drive in Uist A detachment of 27 Highlanders from 4SCOTS (4th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland) visited Uist on a recruiting drive. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Disposal of Assets

The soldiers paid tribute to fallen comrades at all Uist’s war memorials, and went on to paint the railings in North Uist war memorial. The detachment brought with them

a full pipe band and offered drumming and piping tuition to local players. They held a ceilidh in St Peter’s Hall Daliburgh, joined by the Uist Pipe Band.

The Comhairle has declared the following property as surplus to requirements: G

At the heart of the Community ●

Wide selection

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Local meat, fish, eggs and seasonal veg

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Former Eriskay School and School House Community groups are invited to express interest in the acquisition of this property. Expressions of interest, consisting of an initial project scope, must be submitted by 14:00 on Friday 31 October 2014.

For submission and further details please contact: Gordon Kennedy Technical Services, Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar, Sandwick Road, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis HS1 2BW Tel: 01851 822679 Email: g.kennedy@cne-siar.gov.uk

Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm

Telephone: 01876 510257 Cpt Frazer Stark with members of 4SCOTS in Lochmaddy.

Bayhead, North Uist

island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

Uist respite home increases charges Erosion of revenue has forced care provider Tagsa Uibhist to raise the charges at its South Uist care home. Tagsa said the decision had been difficult but necessary to secure the future of Doigheag Respite Care Home in Iochdair. A spokesman for Tagsa Uibhist said: “It is clear that the revenue we receive based on the COSLA-agreed National Care Home Contract rate is insufficient to cover our costs, and continuing to offer respite care at our current fees will place at risk our core home care service, which we cannot allow to happen.” Meanwhile there was better news for Doigheag with the announcement of an award of £14,313 for families caring for adults across Uist. The grant came from the Creative Breaks Fund and is for providing breaks for carers and people they care for who have not accessed any respite care previously. Kathryn Martin, care manager for Doigheag said the grant will give carers who have never had a regular break a chance to go on holiday, visit relatives on mainland or just to sit and relax at home. However, the grant still leaves Doigheag facing a shortfall. The Tagsa spokesman said: “There is still

quite a large shortfall in our current budget as it relies quite heavily on grant funding which has unfortunately not been forthcoming as yet in large enough numbers. “This led to the difficult decision to increase charges at the Home, as otherwise money was having to be diverted from our other services. “We are acutely aware that this will have an impact on our clients and potential clients, and are anxious to do what we can to ensure that there is as little disruption and distress as possible. “We are inviting statutory agencies to meet with us to discuss the situation in the hope that we can find a way of continuing to provide this respite service to all those who have a need in our community.” Doigheag clients Margaret MacCorquodale and Agnes O Brien told IN&A they would recommend the home to anyone. Mrs O Brien said: “This is my first time and I was a bit apprehensive to start with, but it’s just like being at home. The staff are lovely, and it’s meant my daughter and her husband could go to Ireland for a holiday.”

Margaret MacCorquodale (l) and Agnes O Brien say they would recommend the home to anyone.

Entrepreneurship for Traditional Musicians business lunch Lews Castle College UHI Benbecula Wednesday October 8 at 12.30pm Open to all Gary I Campbell of UHI will be chatting to Brian Ó hEadhra, singer-song writer and Gaelic Arts & Culture Officer with Bòrd na Gàidhlig & Creative Scotland. If you have an interest in finding out how musicians and artistes can make more than a living and build businesses in the traditional music sphere, this lunchtime session will feature an interview with

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Brian followed by a chance to ask questions on the subject. The session is FREE and a lunch with an opportunity to network will be provided after the interview and Q&A.

To reserve your place please email: suzanne.simpson@uhi.ac.uk or telephone 01851 770500.

Carnan Stores manager Ian Paterson by the new hardstanding car park area.

Access improvements at Carnan Stores Customers of Carnan Stores, South Uist can now enjoy better parking and access to the shop thanks to a programme of exterior improvements. The agricultural co-operative has created a hard-standing car park for 10 vehicles to the right of the front gate, while the road down to the side door has been cambered to allow better drainage. The car park required some major earth-moving and an in-fill of 200 tonnes of gravel. Many of the potholes on the public road in front of the store have also been filled in.

Carnan Stores manager Ian Paterson said the work spelled an end to muddy, boggy access for customers. He said: “Customers picking up feed from the side of the building will notice a big improvement, as will suppliers delivering goods. “We are also continuing our efforts to tidy up the wider area around the store, even though it is not our responsibility.”

October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

Lifting stone challenge revived A visitor from Birmingham revived Uist’s ancient ‘lifting stone’ tradition while on holiday on the island. Hiking in South Uist.

High profile days on Uist for Belgian artillery unit A 126-strong battery of Belgian soldiers made quite an impact when they came to Uist for two weeks on exercise last month. The Bataljon Artillerie, a mixed air defence and field artillery battalion, had a two-fold mission, involving the firing of 16 French-made Mistral missiles on Ultima lightweight drones, and conducting infantry training during which, unusually, they engaged with the civilian population to find out whether their presence in the area was liked or disliked. The troops were deployed in a deliberately high-profile way, to mimic ‘winning hearts and minds’ tasks they must carry out in places like Afghanistan.

On exercise.

They disseminated information leaflets around the islands explaining their presence and activities. Later they went around townships to ask the public if they had seen the leaflets and find out if they were positive or negative towards their presence. They also carried out patrols in villages and had two mobile checkpoints searching cars and checking IDs as islanders went about their business. Officer in charge of the exercise, Commandant Jurgen van Domburg said people were 95% positive about the soldiers’ presence. He said: “The vibe was very positive.” The soldiers’ stay was not without its dramas.

Three members of the detachment were airlifted from an inaccessible part of South Uist after two soldiers, including Cdt Van Domburg, injured their ankles, and one woman, an office worker for the unit, suffered from a spinal hernia. They were undertaking an overnight hike, in full fatigue gear carrying 30kg back packs. Cdt Van Domburg said: “We are trained to walk for miles, but in Belgium it’s flat. Here we found the boggy, steep, slippery terrain hard going. “I twisted my ankle just within sight of our camping site, having been all the way encouraging my colleague who had injured her ankle.” The three casualties were taken off the hill by Stornoway coastguard the following morning and successfully treated in the Western Isles hospital. During the hike, the soldiers also came across a lost dog on the hill. They were happily able to unite Ben the black and white collie with his owner in Lochbosidale. Cdt Van Domburg said: “We had a very busy schedule, but it’s been a very good trip and possibly we will be back next year.” The Belgian DoD has recently entered negotiations with QINETIQ on a contract for possible MISTRAL firings in 2015.

Alec Roberts is one of a small group of active stone lifters who are drawn to designated lifting stones to test their mettle but for whom culture and tradition also play an important part. Mr Roberts based his choice of holiday in North Uist purely on the presence of Ultach na- h’airde glaise, the lifting stone near Malacleit. The stone was lifted by Alasdair Matheson around the time of the Sollas clearances and was for a while known as Ultach Alasdair Mor. It was also lifted in the twentieth century while the new road was being laid by Sollas men Archie MacDonald, Ewan McLean and Donald McRory. Alex Macaulay of Paible daubed the stone with red paint some forty years to mark it for posterity and ensure it would not be forgotten. In the presence of Mr Macaulay and Angus MacDougall of Malacleit, whose blacksmith

Alec Roberts lifting the Malacleit stone.

father Donald is also purported to have lifted the stone, Mr Robert lifted the Malacleit stone and ‘put the wind underneath it.’ Researcher Peter Martin was also present. He has been studying and writing about the tradition inspired by his late father Peter B Martin, who lifted stones and published a book ‘Of Stones and Strength’ in 1996. Mr Martin said: “By the actions of Alec from Birmingham, the memory of this stone will again be brought to the fore and it is hoped that the younger generations from the island may, on the realisation that stone lifting and strength was an important part of Gaelic culture, try the stone too. “I have being carrying out this research for years and what makes it worthwhile is when island stalwarts such as Alex and Angus look on and encourage the lifting of the stone. “Angus said that in all his seventy-four years he had never seen the stone lifted and that he thought he would probably never see it lifted, so it was a special day.” Mr Martin invites readers to contact him if they have knowledge of lifting stones in their area: 01292 475128.

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island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

Barra Juniors reign supreme in produce show The future of home industries and crofting is safe in Barra for many years to come, writes Sarah Maclean. Juniors reigned supreme for the second year running at the 8th annual Barra & Vatersay Island Produce show last month. More than 77 young people and 40 adults took part. At the end of the day there had to be a winner and the Golden Girl this year was Amy Friend coming 1st in the points and winner of both the Macneil and Mrs Macneil of Barra Shield and Mrs Nancy Macneil Junior Points Trophy. She was also winner of the baking section winning the Church of Scotland Junior Trophy

and the Katie Dewar Baking Bowl. For the second year running Joanna MacNeil won both the Sarah’s Office Quaich and TAIC Junior Trophy in the Craft section. Two new young winners were Angus MacKinnon and Donald Francis Galbraith winning the Garadh a’Bhagh a’ Tuath Junior Trophy for Gardening and the MacInnes Brothers Junior Trophy for the Croft and Fishing Section respectively. These boys are definitely ones to watch for the future and it was nice to see boys sharing the silverware this year.

L to r Cousins Mairead, Amy and Roddy were on a winning streak at the show.

After a gap of a year or so Julie Corby won the Garden Section for the second time and, after a blip last year, Chris Denehy won the Crofting and Fishing Section. Best in Sections were won by Helen MacKinnon for her beautiful, colourful vase of garden flowers, Claire Frances MacNeil for her decorated cake, Chris Denehy for his seashore photo and Helen MacKenzie won Hector MacNeil Coaches Best in Show for her wonderful painting of a ram. The Show relies heavily on many hours of

volunteer time and we really appreciate the people that make the day a success before, during and doing the tidying up after. We would also like to thank our judges and hope they enjoyed their day out. Thanks must also go to our sponsors:- Lews Castle College for the rosettes, Castlebay Community Hall for the venue, Mrs Nancy Macneil for the Points Champions, Hector MacNeil Coaches for the Best in Show, Croit na h-Aibhne for the breakfast and lunch and to our Friends who support the work of the show.

New Parkinson’s nurse busy in Southern Isles Nurse Debbie Nash describes herself as ‘the luckiest person on earth.’ She loves her new role as the first Parkinson’s nurse for the isles because of the difference she can make in people’s lives. Debbie Nash (l) and Susanne McCardel.

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Debbie, a highly qualified and experienced mental health nurse, is still pulling together a database of isles patients who would benefit not only from her help but that of the many support organisations she can tap into. At the moment, her team has identified 80 sufferers on the islands, 15 of them in Uist and Barra. The statistics are higher than average, and Debbie knows there are still many sufferers to be discovered and brought to her attention. In general people with Parkinson’s or Parkinsons-like symptoms come to Debbie’s care through GP or neurologist’s referral, or can self-refer after diagnosis. She can then bring in the support of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists and many other organisations and groups to help improve the quality of life for each sufferer. One of her most important tasks is fine-tuning the medication of Parkinson’s sufferers.

every six to eight weeks. Support is also available through her Stornoway group, by Skype if necessary.

“When this is at the correct dose it can literally transform their lives,” she said. “The condition can be very well managed with medication in conjunction with all the other types of help like occupational therapy, speech and language therapy input and physiotherapy. All interact and contribute to a really hopeful, healthful picture for people with Parkinson’s Disease.”Debbie also offers practical advice for coping with every day life with the disease. She’s there for emotional support too, and to help family and friends cope with what their loved one is going through.

On a recent visit to Uist, Debbie was accompanied by Susanne McCardel, Parkinson’s UK information and support worker for Scotland. She recommends Parkinson UK’s website for lots of information and advice.

Susanne can be reached on 0844 225 9820. Debbie can be reached on 01851 763301 / debbienash1@nhs.net.

Symptoms don’t necessarily involve tremors. They can include simply feeling terrible, moving at a snail’s pace and falling over, depression and anxiety. Debbie said: “These things are not a normal part of ageing and should be taken to the GP who will refer the patient to a neurologist for diagnosis.” Debbie will be visiting Uist

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October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

Moderator reminds Uist congregations of valuable civic role of Church of Scotland Uist played host to the Moderator of the General Assembly on his ten-yearly visit to the Western Isles. Rt Rev John Chalmers chose to give a confidence-building sermon when he preached to the joint congregation of North Uist and Benbecula churches at Clachan. He said he recognised the current criticism of the Kirk in Scotland, but wanted to tell the congregation “something different” about it. He said: “I will not tire of reminding people that we are the largest voluntary social service supplier in Scotland… if the national Church of Scotland pulled the plug on all that it is doing in Scottish public life, if congregations of the Church of Scotland ceased to exist in Scotland tomorrow and if individual members stopped doing the everyday things that Christ inspired them to do then the fabric of Scottish civic society would be placed under so much strain no government could afford to meet the social deficit. “Every single act of goodness inspired by our church is another brick in the wall of the building of Kingdom of God. The sum of all these things amounts to such an impact and influence on Scottish public life that no other body comes close to.”

Inverness Wedding

Back row (l to r): Peter Matheson, Rev Ishie MacDonald, Alistair MacDonald, Donald John MacLennan, Norman MacDonald, Graham Macintosh, John MacDonald, Rev Roddy McKinnon. Front row (l to r): Kate Ann MacDonald, Eilidh MacDonald, Mary Robertson, Mary Campbell, Margaret Smith, Lachine MacVicar, Katie MacGillivray. Moderator Rt Rev John Chalmers (Absent Katie MacRury).

Mr Chalmers also said he recognised the challenging time the Uist church is going through. He said: “You have vital work to do here and I pray that soon there will be ministers here to lead you in the work and to help rebuild the strength of the church across these islands.” Mr Chalmers spent three hectic days fulfilling a number of engagements and meeting as many people as possible. Accompanied by his wife Liz he visited Balivanich School, Uist & Barra hospital, Hebridean Smokehouse and Trianaid Care Home. At Clachan church he presented long-service

Eilidh MacDonald & Stuart Crombie got married on July 25, 2014 at St Marys Inverness. Eilidh is the daughter of Angus John & Catriona MacDonald of Bornish, Isle of South Uist, Stuart is the son of Ian and June Crombie of Drumsmittal Road, North Kessock. We would like to thank all our guests for all their lovely gifts and joining our special day. We would also like to thank all the guests that were invited that were unable to come, who also sent lovely gifts along with thoughtful wishes. Mr & Mrs Crombie

The Moderator presented Clachan Church congregation with a stained glass dove from Bethlehem.

Uist participation invited in Linda Norgrove 10k

certificates to thirteen parishioners (pictured). He also presented the church with a stained glass dove made in Bethlehem by an Israeli/Palestine project supported by the Church of Scotland. The piece is made from glass broken in local conflict. Meanwhile Presbytery has approved the linkage between Clachan and Griminish churches. Retired minister and former Moderator Very Rev John Miller is now in Uist for the next three months to help with the linkage formalities. The Moderator’s sermon can be seen in full on islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk (use search facility).

“There will be soup and baking following the event for all those who take part.” She added: “If you can’t make it on the day, please consider joining in and running or walking wherever you live or happen to be in the world on the 4th.” You can register online at

http://www.lindanorgrovefoundation. org/ Online_shop/ Valtos Peninsula.

The 4th Linda Norgrove Foundation 10k will take place on Saturday 4th October around the Valtos Peninsula in Uig, Lewis. It will start at 12 noon at the Cnip end of Reef Beach and both runners and walkers are welcome. The foundation has extended an invitation to the people of Uist to take part. Lorna Norgrove said: “It is feasible to travel from and back to the Uists on the day to take part in the event but if you would like to make more of an outing, you are welcome to pitch your tent at the camp site on Reef Beach on the Friday and Saturday nights and make use of the toilet block.

or on the day. Entry is £10 and all funds raised will go towards helping women and children affected by the decades of war in Afghanistan.

VENISON Available from this month onwards Whole or half carcass @£1.30/lb Delivered to Stornoway Orders taken now CONTACT

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island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

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October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

Crofting Law conference in Uist An annual conference on crofting law will take place this year in Lochmaddy.

Display in the Wool Shed.

Uist artisan yarn on display at Grimsay mill Garments and fabric made from the first runs of yarn spun by Uist Wool have been on display at the mill at Scotvein croft, Grimsay. The exhibition, entitled Snàth was part of Hebtember 14,and brought together artists, weavers and designers to create a range of pieces to display the artisan yarn. Here we feature three of the items.

Hoody

Capelet

Chair

The WS/CLG crofting law conference is planned for Wednesday October 29 in Lochmaddy Hall, from 9.30 am – 5pm, chaired by Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, Bt, QC. This year it will address the impact of the recently passed Crofting (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2013 and will include an update from the administrators of the Crofting Law Sump (Derek Flyn and Keith Graham), specially created to assist the Scottish Government to investigate the issues and problems in the new legislation which are causing difficulties for crofters, landlords and other stakeholders.

The conference will also include the following sessions: G

The Curse of s. 19B – Crofting Conveyancing in the New World;

The Deer Crofter;

Crofting Law and Scottish Private Law - Irregularities and Anomalies; and Case law update.

Confirmed contributors include The cloth on this recycled chair was hand-woven on her Hattersley loom by Sheila Roderick of Scalpay Linen from Hebridean, Hebridean/Cheviot blend and pure Cheviot yarns. It was upholstered by Christopher Steele from Cothrom Re-store in their workshop in Bornish South Uist.

A tweedy take on the hooded top by Rosie Wiscombe of By Rosie, Stornoway. The cloth was woven by Sheila Roderick of Scalpay Linen from Hebridean and Hebridean/Cheviot blends. It’s lined in lambswool fleece and jersey to keep out the most penetrating wind.

Kilpheder-bred Blackfaces

The Shepherdess. Cascading knitted layers of Cheviot and Jacobs/Cheviot Cross blends made by Benbecula-based designer Flora Kennedy of Inner Wild. The antler buttons were made locally by Robbie Macleod of Snishival, South Uist, and the crook was made by Mill Craft Engineer trainee at Uist Wool, Neil Monk of Lioncleit.

Island communities invited to get involved in Scottish Rural Parliament

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The first Scottish Rural Parliament takes place next month in Oban, with island communities invited to get involved.

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The parliament will take place between Thursday November 6 and Saturday 8 at the Atlantis Leisure Centre in Dalriach Road. Organisers are expecting around 400 delegates to ‘develop and agree a way forward for rural Scotland as well as celebrating the strengths and achievements of rural communities.’ There will be visits to local projects, workshops, an exhibition, with evening entertainment and a dinner. The Parliament is run by Scottish Rural Action with Scottish Government

backing, and is inspired by the successes of Rural Parliaments in other European countries. The idea is to start the process of developing a vision for rural Scotland, and a stronger, more coherent voice for its communities. A series of preliminary events across Scotland has been taking place to encourage discussion about the issues and concerns of rural life. Events were held last month in the Highlands and Skye, and on October 1st and 2nd in Stornoway and Balivanich.

Eilidh Ross, Associate, Inksters and Committee Member of the Crofting Law Group;

Duncan Burd, Partner, Anderson MacArthur;

Rhona Elrick, Registers of Scotland;

Joseph Kerr, Crofting Commission;

David Findlay, Associate, Macleod & MacCallum; and Neil MacDougall of Westwater Advocates.

To book contact nhatch@wssociety.co.uk

island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

Princess Royal delights On Tuesday 2 September 2014 North Uist primary school pupils went on an interesting trip to the opening of the new Lochmaddy Marina. by Citizen Journalist, Molly Perkins P7 Lochmaddy School Although it was cold it was an enjoyable time. Lochmaddy, Paible and Carinish didn’t just go to watch the opening of the Marina and to see Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal open it, we also went to sing a Gaelic Song called Null do Uibhist. As we were waiting for Princess Anne, she was 30 minutes late, Sgoil Lionacleit and Uibhist Pipe Bands were taking it in turns to play to entertain us.

Princess Anne meets (l to r) Gus Macaulay CNM, Fr Ross Crichton, Rev John M Smith, Roy Evans Crown Estate, Gareth Baird Crown Estate, Angus Campbell CnES.

Anne, her maroon helicopter flew over us in the sky and went to land in DR MacLeod’s delivery yard. Shortly after that she arrived in a Landrover at Lochmaddy Pier. Princess Anne was escorted by police officers and bodyguards. Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band entertained the crowds.

After standing in the cold and wind for about 30 minutes waiting for Princess

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band played as Princess Anne walked down to shake all the other important people’s hands that

The Princess Royal chats to the primary children of North Uist.

were there, such as the MP Angus MacNeil, the Convener of CNES and a few others, along with a relation of hers from North Uist, Fergus Granville. After all that Gus Macaulay told us it was time for us to sing. So off we went and sang our song. The cameras from BBC Alba were filming us whilst we were singing. After we sang, Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal came over and spoke to us and said “very nice singing.” Then she asked us what the cheque that the little ones at the front were holding was for and Amy went to the front and said it was

The primary children of North Uist sing for the Princess.

a cheque for the children of Gaza and the money was raised by having a fundraiser at Lochmaddy Hall. A little while after, a few people made speeches and three local men sang a Gaelic Psalm. Eventually we went to Lochmaddy Hotel and had a choice of blackcurrant or orange juice and as a treat, because it was a celebration, we got a big selection of cakes. Overall the day was great, even though it was cold and windy. I think we all enjoyed our day, and were glad to get back in the warm bus!

The visit of HRH The Princess Royal to North Uist last month to open the Comann Na Mara (CNM) Lochmaddy marina drew crowds of welcoming well-wishers. CNM used the opportunity to showcase some of Uist’s finest singers and musicians, to the obvious appreciation of the Royal visitor.

Flùraichean Mhàiri Your Florist in Uist Full range from bouquets to wreaths Every occasion catered for ● Delivery from Berneray to Barra

Mr Macaulay welcomed the Princess and thanked her for her presence. He said: “By being in our midst you give each and every one of us a cherished memory to treasure.” Mr Macaulay also thanked the project’s major funders, the Crown Estate. The organisation has invested more than £410,000 in the project and established with CNM the first Local Management Agreement in the UK

Princess Anne was met and accompanied throughout her visit by George MacDonald in his first Royal engagement as isles Deputy Lieutenant. Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band and Uist Pipe Band formed a guard of honour for the Princess’s walk to the marina, and played at intervals throughout the occasion. The Princess was introduced to the official

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Deputy lieutenant George MacDonald was at the Princess’s side throughout her visit.

party, which included Earl Granville, Angus B MacNeil MP, council leader Angus Campbell, Scottish commissioner Crown Estate Gareth Baird, Roy Evans, Crown Estate head of operations, Rev John M Smith, Fr Ross Crichton and Gus Macaulay, Comann Na Mara chairman.

Princess Anne, Gus Macaulay, Fr Ross Crichton, Rev John M Smith.

October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

crowds in Lochmaddy to manage and develop the pontoon area of the seabed under licence. He said: “From conversation to concept, from project to reality, this has been our two year journey. The conversation started with Paul Bancks and the reality of our envisaged project came through the determined will of Roy Evans.” He also thanked Crown Estate’s Scottish Commissioner Gareth Baird for his encouragement, good will and support. Mr Baird then gave an address.

Princess Anne went for a stroll over the bridge and along the pontoons, accompanied by Mr Macaulay, Mr MacDonald, and Mr Evans.

Comann Na Mara

wishes to thank all of th os to the great success of th e who contributed e opening ceremony.

HRH Princess Royal cuts ribbon at the opening of CNM Lochmaddy marina.

“Proud to have been a partner.” Gareth Baird, Crown Estate.

He said: “We are extremely proud to have been a partner, helping to bring to life a vision which is already benefiting the community. “This facility will help put the Western Isles on the map when it comes to marine tourism, providing crucial links in the west coast network and ensuring the isles reap the economic rewards.” After the speeches Precentors Donald Maclean, Donald Angus MacLennan and John Angus MacKillop sang three verses from Psalm 107 in Gaelic. Their powerful unaccompanied singing clearly moved the audience.

She took the opportunity to chat with the RNLI lifeboat crew who come over from Leverburgh for the occasion. On her return shoreside, Princess Anne was serenaded with a Gaelic song, Fear A Bhata, by well-known Lochmaddy singer Morag Nicolson.

HRH met members of the Coastguard at CNM Lochmaddy marina.

She went on to chat with wildlife artist Bill Neill, who told her about the work of Outer Hebrides Biological Recording. The Princess also talked at length to naturalist Steve Duffield about his display of wildlife photographs. The CNM directors also showed the Princess CNM’s pioneering underwater camera system with wireless viewing spectacles. The party then moved into the dining room where Anna MacIain played the clarsach, to the clear enjoyment of the Royal visitor. Florence Pearson introduces baby Joseph Leveson Gower while proud dad Earl Granville looks on.

Finally Nick Ingledew of CNM warmly thanked the Princess for her visit and Paul McCallum sang the Runrig song, Cearcall A Chuain/The Ocean Cycle. George MacDonald accompanied the Princess to her helicopter where Pipe Majors Donald Ban and Fiona Maclean played farewell to her visit. Community celebrations continued at the hotel with a buffet of local foods.

Morag Nicolson singing for the Princess.

The Gaelic precentors. l to r Donald Maclean, Donald Angus MacLennan, John Angus MacKillop.

Rev John M Smith gave a blessing and prayer for the marina and the Royal party moved to the pontoon bridge, accompanied by piper Kevin Reid of Gael Force Engineering, the company which installed the pontoons. Before cutting the ribbon, Princess Anne gave an impromptu few words, telling the community that although there are plenty of sheltered anchorages along the west coast islands, a facility like the Piper Kevin Reid. Lochmaddy marina was ideally placed in the centre of the Outer Hebrides to attract and serve the yachting community. Father Ross Crichton then blessed the marina.

She was piped up to Lochmaddy Hotel where she was greeted by managers John and Lorna Docherty. In the lounge, the Princess met Lorna Macleod, widow of the late Dr John, founding member and former chairman of CNM; and the directors of Comann na Mara Nick Ingledew, Norman Johnson, Donnie Johnson, Niall Johnson, Donald Beag MacDonald, John Maclean and Cpn Roddy Ferguson. She also met Callum MacDougall of Gael Force Engineering, Joe Macphee CNES and Rachel McKenzie and Joanna Peteranna of HIE.

Princess Anne met CNM directors (r to l) Nick Ingledew, Norman Johnson, Donnie Johnson.

Princess Anne was delighted by Anna MacIain’s clarsach performance.

Princess Anne went on to meet further members of the community including baby Joseph Leveson Gower and his parents, Earl Granville and Florence Pearson; Niall and Amanda Leveson Gower, Kevin Reid, Paul Bancks, Robbie Drummond (CalMac) Mary Morrison (CalMac) Harbour Master Kenny Morrison, singer Paul McCallum, North Uist Community Council chair Sheena Stewart, Deputy Lieutenant’s wife Sheila MacDonald, IN&A editor Susy Macaulay.

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The Princess Royal took time to chat with Leverburgh RNLI crew on the pontoons.

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island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

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October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER Life

Life

Dance yourself happy

Winter is on its way - but there’s no need to dread the thought. This month’s Life is full of ideas on how to keep busy and healthy through the

dark months.

Get that healthy adrenaline buzz-dance with Laura Siân Macleod

It doesn’t matter how old, stiff or unfit you are- Southern Isles dance officer Laura Johnston is offering classes to get you moving and lift your spirits. Laura moved to Uist last year after growing up and studying dance in Italy. She has been dancing since she was 3 and is trained in ballet, hip hop and contemporary dance. She now works as Dance Development Officer with Ceòlas in Uist and Barra to promote dance in schools and in the community. Her work helps to widen the range of dancing classes on offer and bring more people in to exercise by dancing. Laura also works as a part-time, freelance dance teacher, leading classes in ballet, hip hop, contemporary dance and dance fitness. Laura runs dance classes in Benbecula, North Uist and soon in South Uist too. In care homes, she runs gentle movement classes to keep the elderly moving. Anyone of any age and level can take part in her classes; her oldest student is 92! Laura speaks passionately about dance and its health benefits. She said: “It helps to fight depression because you’re releasing adrenaline. It also helps prevent Alzheimers and dementia because you’re using your memory a lot.” Dancing is also a great way to keep physically fit and you hardly even notice you are working out, she added. There are many dance events coming up soon including a 1920s tea party event during Mental Health Awareness week and a dance along theme night for Breast Cancer research. Laura wants to bring dance to even more people in the islands and looks forward to seeing you at her classes.

Podiatry Clinic and Home Visits available in Uist and Benbecula Kevin Macdonald MChS, BscHons, HPC Registered

Contact 07879 563 618 for an appointment or more information Also at PJs Hair Design 01851 706200

Laura’s Dance Classes Hip-Hop Free after-school class Sgoil Lionacleit

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Adult classes Ballet Beginners Carinish Hall

October, 2, 9, 23, 30

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Dance fitness Sgoil Lionacleit Games Hall 5.15 - 6pm October 2, 9, 23, 30 Lochmaddy Hall 6.30 - 7.30pm October 3,10, 24, 31

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Dance for kids Lochmaddy Hall

every Friday during school term Ages 5 - 7 4.30-5.30pm Ages 8 - 125.30 - 6.30pm £3.00

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Podiatrist Kevin can help you keep your dancing feet healthy turn to p 15

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island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

First Uist skiff underway

Robert Taylor with his skiff under construction.

Maggie Howarth Meanwhile in Grimsay, North Uist retired engineer Robert Taylor is hard at work on his own St Ayles skiff, to be named Living the Dream. With help from Grimsay boat builder Ronald John Maclean and the use of a large shed thanks to the good offices of Joan Hamann, he is painstakingly piecing together the skiff, hoping to launch next spring.

Fun to the gunnels. Community boat building takes off

Build and row

Community boat-building and rowing is a new way to keep fit and reconnect the generations

He also wants to see a second skiff on Uist, built and owned by the community so that the two boats can train and race together. Robert’s first interest in boats came from childhood summers spent in Scarborough where, for a small charge, he and his friends were allowed to take out small fishing boats, similar to skiffs, and row them along the shore and he loved it. It was while watching a TV piece about the St Ayle’s skiff world championships in Ullapool last year that Robert’s passion of boats was re-ignited and he decided to invest some of his pension savings into building his own. As a trained engineer Robert felt confident in following the kit build instructions, however due to a glitch that has since been corrected, a critical few pages were missing. Luckily experienced boat builder Ronald John who is mentor to the project was able to help. Rev Donald MacQuarrie, who makes exact replica model boats also came to assist at this critical period. Robert also visited the Barra Croitear Òg group to learn from their experience. He was invited to join in a 2k race in a recent Ullapool regatta. He said at the end he had blisters on his hands but “it was magic – like being back in Scarborough.”

Kisimul got a small dousing of whisky before she was launched.

Barra’s first community rowing boat was launched last month in Castlebay to the skirl of pipes and a small dousing of whisky. More than 200 people turned out to watch Kisimul in her smart white and green livery being lowered into the water and rowed around the bay by a team of lads from S1-3 from Sgoil Castelbhaigh. Kisimul is a St Ayles Skiff built by young people from Barra’s youth group, Croitear Òg with the aid of many community volunteers. Senior pupils Connor Young, Jack Daly, Kyle MacLeod, Eoghan Macleod,

Christopher MacDonald and Ryan MacNeil committed many hours to helping build the skiff, overseen by boat builders Roddy MacIntyre and Peter MacNeil. The whole project was driven by the vision of Croitear Òg development officer Claire Logan, with funding from CnES programme Include-Us. Claire said: “The skiff was a perfect project to teach skills and reconnect the older generations who have those skills with the younger generation who are keen to learn.” Kisimul is the second community skiff to be built in the Outer Hebrides, and was joined on her launch day by Stornoway skiff Madah

Feis Bharraigh Pipe band piped Kisimul down to the slipway.

Ruadh and members of her crew. The two boats rowed together in the bay and the talk was of race days to come. Claire said: “Kisimul is a racing skiff and we are on the look-out for teams of people to train to race her. “We’re also looking for funding to build a second skiff this winter.” Claire has come up with a novel way of raising the £4,000 for the boat through a sponsor-a-plank scheme. She said: “You can sponsor a whole plank for £200, or a length of plank for £100. If you sponsor a plank you are allowed to have a hand in choosing the name for the boat.”

Claire can be reached on 01871 810043 / claire@croitearog.net

The Stornoway skiff travelled to Barra for the launch.

FACT FILE Angus B MacNeil MP Constituency Office, 31 Bayhead Street, Stornoway Isle of Lewis, HS1 2DU

All enquiries welcome

Tel 01851 702 272 E-Mail: macneila@parliament.uk

The St Ayle’s skiff was the idea of the Scottish Fisheries Museum who wanted to revive the tradition of coastal rowing regattas.

Skye-based Iain Oughtred, a world-renowned boat designer and expert on historic boats, was commissioned to design the plywood and larch kit skiff.

Alex Jordan prefabricates the skiffs in Fife.

Robert bought his kit from Jordan Boats last year vowing that it would be ready in time for the next world championships in 2016.

Skiffs are also being built in Shawbost, Tolsta and at the Nicholson Institute.

There are now 79 skiffs in Scotland since the first one was designed in 2009.

Skiff building and rowing is open to people of all abilities and ages and Robert asks that anyone who is interested should ring him on 01870 603754. He is interested in forming a community rowing club that could take part in local regattas.

Maiden voyage - the newly launched skiff.

October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER Life

Life

Challenges can make

you happy

Challenge Challenges are all the rage at the moment - sporting, slimming, baking, throwing buckets of ice over each other. But here’s one that’s a crazy mixture of insanity and kindness. IN&A student placement journalist Siân Macleod undertook it this summer. Leanne climbed Snowdon.

We walked on water, fed each other chicken noodle soup using a leafblower, photographed zombies shopping for toilet roll and created Stonehenge in miniature. However, it’s not all about being silly. We also signed up to be bone marrow donors, learnt how to do CPR, brought hand-made cards to care homes and helped out our neighbours The Hunt is an amazing time of year for everyone involved – it brings creativity into their lives, it inspires ridiculousness and helps out those who could really use a hand.

This August I took part in what has become known as GISHWHES – the Greatest International Scavenger Hunt the World Has Ever Seen – for the third consecutive year. The excitement begins several weeks before the Siân Macleod. Hunt when registration opens and you select your level of challenge. Each level costs a little bit more but you are encouraged to spend the extra to get collectible flags and other gifts. The most important part of registration is that it is the first stage of the Hunt where you donate to Random Acts. Random Acts is a charity that was first dreamt up by actor Misha Collins in December of 2009. It has since grown into a wonderful charity helping to rebuild homes, communities and lives through their Hope2Haiti campaign. The charity has raised money through their Endure 4 Kindness campaign in which people do a continuous activity such as running, knitting or skipping for 24 hours. It also encourages schools to get involved in kindness acts such as

Koen takes his noodle soup cold.

Lily walks on water.

building a community garden or organising social events for the elderly among many other initiatives. Everyone who registers is put into teams of 15 and the Hunt begins when the item list goes up on the website. The list contains nearly 200 items all of which require a lot of planning and thinking through. The aim of the Hunt is to complete the items to the best of your ability and to bring kindness and joy to others. We did some things that were just utterly ridiculous.

FACT FILE Why challenge yourself? This is what psychologists say Challenges help you grow as an individual G

They expand your mind

They help you become more self-reliant

They help you become more creative

They get us out of our safe ruts

They help us find happiness and peace

And all this makes us better friends and partners

Alicia experiences death by chocolate.

Look after your feet - and they’ll look after you Kevin’s hints for A new podiatry service in Uist means there’s happy feet no need to let painful feet make your life misery.

Kevin MacDonald

Lewis-based podiatrist Kevin MacDonald is now visiting Uist for two days every other month, with his next trip due on Thursday November 13 and Friday November 14.

He says: “I’ve always had a caring nature, and I looked at different caring professions until I came across podiatry. When I read up on it, I found it really interesting. I had a few days shadowing the podiatrist at Western Isles hospital, and I knew it was for me.” Kevin graduated in 2011, and came home in 2012 to start working privately.

He’ll be seeing clients at a treatment room in Iochdar on Thursdays or in their own homes on Fridays.

He offers treatment and assessment of the lower limbs with services like nail cutting and removal of hard skin and corns.

Kevin, 26, loves travelling across the Sound of Harris because, although he was brought up in Stornoway, South Uist is a home from home. His mum is Sine MacDonald of Howmore, where she has three brothers. She used to be a care worker in Stornoway and is now an auxiliary nurse in Raigmore Hospital. Kevin’s dad Eric is from Stornoway and manages the Western Isles NHS dental service, so the care industry is in Kevin’s blood.

Kevin also monitors and advises on any circulation concerns, particularly important for diabetics.

He went to the Nicolson Institute and then on to Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh to study podiatry.

Biomechanics are also an important part of his treatment, looking at the way people walk and prescribing insoles to correct imbalances. Kevin said: “I absolutely love my job. I enjoy helping people who come in in pain to walk out pain-free, that’s the best part of the job. If you neglect your feet they can become uncomfortable and a lot of people put up with the pain, for years even, but there’s no need. After a treatment they remember how good their feet can feel.”

CO CHOMUNN AN IOCHDAIR LTD

CARNAN STORES CARNAN, SOUTH UIST, WESTERN ISLES, HS8 5RH Phone: 01870 610205 Fax: 01870610216 Email: managercarnanstores@aol.com

Wear good supportive footwear, preferably lace-ups G Limit your time in high heels, ladies, as they create a lot of hard skin on the ball of the feet, and blisters, aches and pains G Check your feet for changes on a regular basis, especially if you’re diabetic. G With winter approaching, keep your feet warm and dry to avoid chilblains G Check your lower legs for lumps, bumps and moles and if you notice anything unusual, go to your doctor. G

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Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Saturdays: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm ●

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AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS – Full range of Ritchie gates, hurdles, feed and stock handling equipment. ANIMALS - Large selection of Cattle, Sheep, Horse and Pig feed. BIRD & PET FOOD – Grain, Mash, Pellets, Dried and Canned Dog/Cat food. FENCING – Strainers, Stays, Stobs, Barbed/Plain Wire, Rylock, Staples. HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES – Cookers, Deep Fat Fryers, Microwave Ovens, Fridges, Freezers, Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers & Kettles. FURNITURE - Beds, Bedside Cabinets, Wardrobes, Chest Of Drawers, Dining Tables, Chairs, Coffee Tables, Bookcases & Coat stands. HOME HARDWARE – Pots, Pans, Casseroles, Baking/Cooling Trays, Mugs, Jugs, Clocks, Mirrors, Bedding, Curtains, Blinds, Linen & Consumables.

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HEATING APPLIANCES & FUEL – Electric & Gas Heaters, Coal, Logs, Kindling, Bottled Gas and Gas Appliances.

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CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR – Wet Weather Suits, Boiler suits, Jackets, Trousers, Shirts, Socks, Underwear, Gloves, Hats, Wellingtons, Boots and Shoes.

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PAINT – Undercoat, Emulsion, Gloss, Marine, Machinery Enamel.

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TOOLS – Extensive range of Draper quality hand and power tools.

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FIREARMS - Cartridges, Bullets, Pellets.

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NEW - Engine Oil, Tractor Parts, Plumbing and Electrical Accessories.

This is just a small selection of what we have in stock. Everyone welcome to call in and look around.

COMPETITIVE PRICES PLEASE CHECK WITH US BEFORE ORDERING ELSEWHERE

island news & ADVERTISER Life - October 2014 Issue 30

Life

A childhood remembered

Read

We continue our bilingual serialisation of Katie M MacDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memoir of her childhood in Carinish, North Uist.

The manuscript and photos have been made available to Island News & Advertiser by kind permission of Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family. As a family we attended Carinish and Clachan Churches with our parents. We attended Sunday School at Carinish Church, where we

Katie as a striking young woman.

learnt to read part of the New Testament in Gaelic, particularly The Gospel According to St. John. Our Sunday School Teacher was Seonaidh SheĂ˛rais (John Mackenzie), Carinish Inn. He was the elder brother of the late Rev. George Mackenzie, who was at one time a Church of Scotland minister in Greenock. We all loved and respected John Mackenzie, this venerable old man, who worked so hard in his own quiet way to teach us to be Christians. I will never forget him, mainly for his gentleness and religious zeal. He was a truly good man and one of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gentlemen. With our parents, we attended Communion services at Carinish and Clachan Churches. At Clachan, if the weather was favourable, the Communion, on Sunday morning, was held outside on the hillside where the War Memorial is situated. How we loved to listen to these venerable ministers and to the fine precentors leading the Gaelic Psalm-singing in the open air. I look back with an inward longing on these Communion services, which made such a lasting impression on my mind as a child.

My father, being a blacksmith, was always busy, shoeing horses, making horseshoes, spears for flounders, tongs, girdles, plough-shares, peat-knives and iron rims for cart-wheels. I used to help at the forge by working the bellows and I can remember the acrid smell of the smithy coal, as the sparks flew upwards.

A favourite family photo. Katie is in the top row with her father-in-law Farquhar (l) and husband Alick (r) Middle row, l to r Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children Simon, Morag, Anne, Kathleen Bottom row, l to r Mother-in-law Anne Macdonald, Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children Donald and Margaret. The picture was taken at Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-laws croft in Kinlochewe where the family went for three weeks in summer.

As there were no washing machines or wringers in those far-off days, heavy washing was carried along to the loch or well, particularly when it came time for washing the blankets in the summer. A fire was built at the loch or well and a large three-legged iron pot, full of water, was placed on it. Alongside was a large wooden tub ready for the hot water. The blanket was placed in the tub of hot water and well-rubbed with big long bars of yellow soap, something like Sunlight Soap. Some housewives used another method, which was to slice the soap into the hot water. Care had to be taken that the water was not too hot, as the ladies took off their boots and

stockings and took turns at stamping the blankets with their feet. When the blankets were thought to be thoroughly cleaned, they were wrung by being twisted by a woman at each end, twisting and wringing each blanket until as much water as possible had been wrung out. The tub was then emptied and filled with a fresh supply of rinsing water and the process of wringing was performed again. When the blankets had been thoroughly rinsed, they were vigorously shaken again and again, before being spread out on a hillock to dry. Eventually they were lifted off the ground and hung up on a dry-stone dyke to dry off. We had lovely long summers in those days.

Mar theaghlach rachamaid gu ruige Eaglais ChĂ irinis agus Eaglais Chlachan cĂ˛mhla ri ar pĂ rantan. Bha sinn aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dol dhan Sgoil ShĂ baid an CĂ irinis, far an do dhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ionnsaich sinn a bhith leughadh pĂ irt dhen Tiomnadh Nuadh anns aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;GhĂ idlig, gu h-Ă raid an Soisgeul a rĂ¨ir EĂ˛in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;S e Seonaidh SheĂ˛rais (Seonaidh MacCoinnich) Ă Taigh-Ă˛sda ChĂ irinis am fear-teagaisg a bhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; againn san Sgoil ShĂ baid.

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Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; esan a brĂ thair bu shine a bhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;aig an Urramach SeĂ˛ras MacCoinnich. Bha grĂ dh agus meas mĂ˛r againn air Seonaidh SheĂ˛rais, an seann duine urramach seo a bha cho dleasdanach, no dhĂ˛igh shocair fhĂïn, aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; deanamh saothair airson sinn a bhith nar CrĂŹosdaidhean. Cha dĂŹochuimhnich mi gu sĂŹorraidh e, gu h-Ă raid airson cho ciĂšin â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s cho crĂ bhach â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s a bha e. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;S e fior dhuine math a bhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ann agus e cho uasal na dhĂ˛igh. Bha sinn aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dol gu Comanachadh ChĂ irinis agus Comanachadh aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chlachan cĂ˛mhla ri ar pĂ rantan. Aig aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chlachan, nam bhiodh an aimsir fĂ bharach, bha an t-seirbhis air Latha na SĂ baid air a cumail a-muigh air aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chnoc far a bheil cĂ rn-cuimhne aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chogaidh MhĂ˛ir. Bha e a ga-rĂŹribh tlachdmhor a bhith ag Ăïsdeachd ris na ministearan urramach seo a teagasg a-muigh air aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chnoc agus ris na fir a bha togail an fhuinn cho binn agus cho ceĂ˛lmhor. Bidh mi aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; coimhead air ais air na seirbhisean Comanachadh seo le cianalas, oir rinn iad leithid de bhuaidh air mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;inntinn nam phĂ isde. Bhon as e a gobha bha nam athair, bha e an cĂ˛mhnaidh trang, aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cur chrĂšidhean, aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dĂänamh chrĂšidhean, brod-lĂäbag, clobhan, greidealan, soc-cruinn, torr-sgian agus aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cearcladh, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s e sin a bhith dĂänamh

chearcall-iarainn airson rothan cartach. Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ă bhaist dhĂ˛mhsa a bhith aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cuideachadh le bhith ag obrachadh aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bhalg-sĂ¨ididh. Tha fĂ ileadh gual na ceĂ rdaich nam chuinneanan fhathast agus sealladh nan sradagan, ag Ă¨irigh an Ă ird gu mireagach, nam inntinn. Bho nach robh innealan-nighe againn mar a tha aig mnathan an diugh, bhiodh mo mhĂ thair aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; nighe nam plangaidean as t-samradh aig locha neo aig an tobar. Rachadh teine a thogail aig an locha agus preis-iarainn thrĂŹ-chasach lĂ n uisge chur air. Bha tuba mĂ˛r fiodh faisg air lĂ imh, deiseil airson an uisge theth. Bha aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; phlangaid air a cur dhan phreis air a suathadh le bĂ raichean fada de shiabann buidhe, air neo bha an siabann air a shlisneadh dhan uisge theth. Chan fheumadh an t-uisge a bhith ro theth,

L to r Ronald Robertson, Angus MacDonald, Chrissie MacDonald Hastain, Katie as bridesmaid, minister name Rev Angus Boyd.

oir bha tĂ¨ mu seach dhe na mnathan aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cur dhith a brĂ˛gan â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s a stocainnean â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s a seasamh san tuba agus aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stampadh nam plangaidean le casan. An dĂ¨idh sin bha na mnathan fĂ sgadh na plangaid, tĂ¨ aig gach ceann, gus nach bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;urrain dhaibh an cĂ˛rr uisge fhĂ sgadh aiste. Bha uisge glan air a chur dhan tuba agus bha aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; phlangaidean an uair sin air a crathadh fĂ sgadh a-rithist. Bha gach tĂ¨ dhe na plangaidean an uair sin air a crathadh gu sgairteail agus air a sgaoileadh air cnoc gus an tiormaichidh i. An ath latha bha i air a sgaoileadh air balla cloiche gus am biodh i dĂ¨arr-thioram. Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ă bhaist samhraidhean fada, bruthainneach a bhith againn sna lĂ ithean sin.

October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER Life

Grow A last dip into Heather Wheeler’s pallet paradise Autumn projects which will reap rewards

in the garden next year

before she puts her saw away for the winter COMPOST BIN

RAISED BED

OUTDOOR GEAR DRYING RACK

Seven pallets and six fence stobs form this large double compost bin. The pallets were arranged as shown and then

This raised bed provides different sections for planting and a protected area in the centre. It was constructed using three

fence stobs were slid in between them and secured with screws. Two additional pallets with hinges attached made doors for the front of the bins to allow easy access to the compost material.

pallets. Two pallet planters were made to form the sides and then timber from a dismantled third pallet was used to form the front and back of the bed. A trellis was added to the back to support peas and beans.

This drying rack is ideal for drying wetsuits and other outdoor gear. It was constructed with three pallets and some old broom handles for the drying poles. Fishing net was stapled to the back of the rack to protect the clothes from the wall. We added a holster at the side for the hose to sit in. The design makes it easy to wash down gear while it is hanging on the rack.

House Plots A unique opportunity to purchase house plots with stunning views across Vallay Strand and to the hills of Harris.

View from the plots

There are currently two 1/3 acre plots and an acre plot available off the main road overlooking Vallay Strand. They all have outline planning permission and

Services Available ● ●

Architectural Services All Building Works

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Kit Plans Supplied / Designed

are not subject to crofting restrictions.

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All Plumbing / Electrical Works

Both services (power and water) are close to

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hand and easy to access. There is also land

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Planning Applications All Joinery Works

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Power and Water Connections

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Dedicated Project Management

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All Groundworks Scaled Payment Service

available to buy/rent for any purchaser interested in creating a small holding or larger garden. The sites have uninterrupted panoramic views over the Vallay Strand towards the Harris hills.

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COMPLETE HOUSE BUILD For a One Stop Shop contact: Angus MacDonald Tel: 01876510293 / 07970218904 Project e: rthomp4521@btinternet.com

island news & ADVERTISER - October 2014 Issue 30

your online shop

Fine pro d from Sc otland's ucts Isla

everything

island

islandn adverti ewsand ser.co.u k

nds

Island News & Advertiser’s new online shop Everything Island specialises in fine products made in the Scottish Islands. Visit the shop at islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk to browse beautiful art, crafts and food being created on our islands. MEET SOME OF OUR SELLERS

Alan S Watson, artist

Simone Kirk

Spectacular Orkney-scapes

Natural soap and textiles from Orkney

Feel the deep thundering of the sea and float into Orkney’s huge skies.

Stronsay-based Simone Kirk is passionate about making and using natural soap.

Alan S Watson’s spectacular paintings draw you right into the islands he loves and whose energy he captures so well.

She blends hers using nourishing oils and sweet smells to create a gentle, long-lasting and fragrant soap.

Alan graduated from Edinburgh College of Art in 1972 and has lived and worked in Orkney since 1976.

She says;” I like my soap to be fun, lots of bubbles, magic, nourishing to the senses and soul, unique to the place and person who made it. My soaps provide a perfect way of bringing a slice of Orkney direct to you.”

He was Head of Art in Kirkwall Grammar School until he retired in 2012. He paints in charcoal, gouache, watercolour, acrylic and oils, and his pieces range from small watercolours to large paintings or drawings. Alan works out of old Orquil Church in the Parish of Rendall which was converted into a studio Margaret Tait, an Orkney filmmaker and author. He has just returned from a trip to Tuscany where he was invited to paint and exhibit at Villa Albergo Casanova, near Lucca, which has prompted a change of direction in his work inspired by the architecture of the region. He has Alan’s work is for sale In Everything Island at islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk promised to share more of this with us in future.

Simone also makes one-off textile pieces, which she’ll also be selling in Everything Island. We particularly love her Solstice Sunset rug (pictured) handwoven on a peg loom from North Ronaldsay sheep fleeces from Auskerry, and Icelandic fleece from Stronsay. She also makes bags, shrugs, wallhangings and even a whacky umbrella in a You can almost smell Simone’s soap at islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk. hand-spun wool overcoat. Click on Everything Island on the home page to shop her products.

Award-winning smoked salmon from Lewis We’re delighted to have Uig Lodge Smoked Salmon products for sale in Everything Island.

a ‘great testament to the skill and dedication of the entire Uig team, past and present.’

The company has just won Speciality Producer of the Year in this year’s Great Taste awards in recognition of their consistent excellence, having already been awarded three gold stars at the awards and been shortlisted in the top 50 foods three times.

Uig Lodge has its own unique curing process, right down to taking into account the prevailing weather conditions at the time of smoking. All this gives the fish the perfect texture and flavour.

Managing director Dickon Green’s family set up the Uig Lodge smokery thirty years ago. He said the major national award was

In Everything Island you’ll find sliced and unsliced smoked salmon sides, hot smoked salmon and thinking ahead to Christmas, the smokery’s Hebridean hamper.

l to r Mairead Morrison, Dickon Green, Annie Smith, Finn Morrison.

Treat yourself! You can order Uig Lodge smoked salmon from Everything Island at islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk

If you’d like to sell your products through Everything Island, contact editor@islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk or telephone 01870 602151

THE ADVERTISER October 2014 Issue 30 - island news & ADVERTISER

YOUR DIRECTORY Have your business seen throughout the islands for as little as £66 PER YEAR. OF LOCAL SERVICES Flat rate £2 per line, minimum three lines, minimum eleven insertions. Call 01870 602151/ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.com to book your space. Accommodation

Cafe/Post Office/Gift Shop

Cycle Shop

Insurance Services

MSP Western Isles

An Taigh Fiodh, Grimsay Luxurious self-catering apartment www.grimsay.com Call Heather 01870 602943

Lochboisdale Café Open all year 6 days. WiFi. Tel: 01878 700313

Cycle hire, sales, repairs. Rothan Cycles Tel: 01870 620283 rothan@hebrides.net www.rothan.com

Are you paying over the odds for your insurance? Let us offer you a great deal on your personal and business insurance. Call us now for a no obligation quotation Tel: 01870 60 22 22 email: info@ macleodinsurance .co.uk Macleod Insurance Services

Alasdair Allan MSP SNP 31 Bayhead, Stornoway, Lewis. E: alasdair.allan.msp @scottish.parliament.uk T: 01870 602287 (Uist & Barra) 01851 702272 (Lewis & Harris)

Accommodation 2-bed s/c cottage Laxdale area, on bus route Free wifi. Tel: 01851 705771

Agricultural Contractor & Plant Hire Digger & Tractor Hire, Landscaping, Access Roads, Agricultural Sheds, Building Sand, Gravel, Concreting John Allan MacLellan Tel: 01876 510304 Mob: 07786 430989

Building & Roofing Contractors New builds, Renovations, Roof specialists. Archie Beaton Tel: 01871 890 374 Mob: 07788 263 080

Car Commercials Plant & Marine Repairs Available for Hire 15 to 57 Seater Buses 6M Luton Vans. HEBCO Howmore, Isle of South Uist Tel: 01870 620 345 Mob: 07900 806 638

Western Isles Citizens Advice Service

Barra 01871 810608 Uist 01870 602421 Harris01859 502431 Lewis 01851 705727

Money Advice 01870 603807 and 01851 700088

Business Services The Western Isles Occupational Health, Safety and Business Support Consultancy. Sandwick Management Systems Call Donald on 07788 963497 Email: donald@sandwick systems.co.uk

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Uist Vac Services Uist & Barra Tel: 01870 602212/ 07765 524 753

Filling Station Ardhasaig Harris Tel: 01859 502066 Licensed Grocers Calor Gas & Bicycle Hire

Jewellers Scottish, Celtic, silver and gold jewellery. Traditional and contemporary designs. Tel: 01870 610288 www.hebridean jewellery.co.uk

Fire Protection Western Isles Fire Protection Fire equipment sales and service Contact Mark on 078279 67894

Grass cutting/small plant repairs David’s Garden Machinery Grass cutting, small plant repairs, hires tel: 01870 603833 mob: 07880 743437 bagleyr@supanet.com

Hairdresser Shear Design Unisex salon Bayhead, North Uist Call Joanne 07825 741436

Talk to us in your own way, whatever life’s done to you. Call Samaritans on 0845 790 9090 Or email jo@samaritans.org No pressure, no judgement

Painter and Decorator All types of decoration undertaken. Ally MacKenzie Tel: 01870 602725 Mob: 07723013884

Skinners Decor Painting & Decorating DIY Shop Howden’s Kitchens Tel: 01870 602423

Photographic Printing & Graphic Design Clothing, Workwear Canvas, Photo Restoration Balloons & Banners Custom Prints 01870 602515

Memorials

Pregnancy Crisis

Jon Hearach Memorials Memorials, renovations, added inscriptions Any cemetery, Home visits. Tel. for our helpful brochure. 01463 711287

Free confidential counselling W.I.Pregnancy Crisis Support Text or phone: 07901 966101 E: support@wipcs.org Web: www.wipcs.org

Taxis

Uist Computer Repairs

Prompt Reliable Service Sketch’s Taxis Tel: 01870 603427 Mob: 07909 637161

Low cost computer repairs and servicing Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Taxis Quick Cab Taxis Country & Airport Runs Tel: 01851 701234 Harris Taxis Tel: 07500 450 387

Training Opportunities for Learning Cothrom Ltd Tel: 01878 700910 www.cothrom.net

Painter/Decorator

Licensed Tearoom & Shop Groceries, Gifts, Snacks Summer evening meals Ardmaree Stores The Lobster Pot, Berneray Tel: 01876 540288

Samaritans of the Western Isles

Satellite Dish Repair Satellite Replacement, Retune and Repair Emergency Call Outs Available Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Taxis Isle of Barra local taxi Tel: 01871 810012 Mobile: 07974 071255

Taxis Airport, ferry, school runs Staff runs & small contracts 24/7 service Menzies Private Hire Tel: 07833 357241 www.mph247.co.uk

Uist Satellite Internet Fast Internet Access for the Islands Get Connected Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Wi-Fi Installs Commercial and Residential Wi-Fi Installs Whole House or Hotel Wireless Service Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

TV, Satellite & Broadband Satellite Broadband TV Aerial and Satellite Dish Call Charles: 01876 580372 or 07748 081871

Window cleaner Window cleaner/ odd jobs Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula Call Colin 01876 540252

Uist Disability Access Panel

NEEDS YOU We try to help anyone with any access issues in the Uists If you are interested in joining us contact: UDAP c/o Tagsa ofﬁces orc/o 23 Winﬁeld Way, Balivanich Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LH

Tel: 01870 603233

OCTOBER REFUSE COLLECTION FOR UIST Please note in BLUE BINS hard plastic and tins only, no polythene or black bags Monday October 20 Paper/Card October 6 Blue Bin East Gerinish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmore, Creagorry, Liniclate & Liniclate School, Torlum, Hacklet, Uiskevagh, Petersport,WestCamp, Balivanich, Locheport, Berneray, ClachanSands, Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Lochmaddy, Minish, Blashaval, Uachdar, Dunganichy. Tuesdays October 7, 21 Residual Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Daliburgh Commercials and Daliburgh West of, Kilphedar, Strome, Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Rangehead, Hacklet Eastwards, Uiskevagh, Petersport,WestCamp, Balivanich/Aird, Creagorry Commercials, Liniclate Commercials, Liniclate Muir, Uachdar, Dunganichy. Wednesday October 8 Paper/Card October 22 Blue Bin Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Dalibrugh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Howbeg, Drimsdale,

Stilligarry, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, Liniclate Commercials, Balivanich Commercials.

Thursdays October 9, 23 Residual Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Sollas, Hosta, Tigharry, Grenitote, Ahmore, Balranald, Langass Lodge, Hougharry, Middlequarter, Lochmaddy Commercials, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Gramsdale, Griminish, Nonton, Aird, Muir of Aird.

Monday October 13 Paper/Card October 27 Blue Bin Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Balranald, Tigharry, Lochmaddy Commercials, Hougharry, Hosta, Sollas, Middlequarter, Grenitote, Langass Lodge, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Nunton, Aird, Muir of Aird, Gramsdale, Griminish.

Tuesdays October 14, 28 Residual Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Daliburgh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Howbeg, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, East Gernish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmor, Creagorry, Liniclate, Liniclate School, Torlum. Wednesday October 1, 29 Blue Bin October 15 Paper/Card Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, Daliburgh Commercials, Daliburgh - West of Borrodale Hotel, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Kilphedar, Strome, Rangehead, DI, IOBHH. Thursdays October 2, 16, 30 Residual Locheport, Berneray, ClachanSands, Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Blashaval, Minish, Lochmaddy Commercials, Bayhead, Paible, Claddach, Clachan, Carinish, Balivanich.

Island News & Advertiser is published by Island News & Advertiser Ltd, Room 7, East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA Printed by Cumbrian Newsprint, Newspaper House, Dalston Road, Carlisle CA2 5UA