Issue 3 - Country Lifestyle Scotland

Transcription

lifestyle
only
C O U N T R Y
99p
S c ot la n d’s rural
r u r allifestyle
l ife st yle
g ui de
Scotland’s
magazine
Camping?
SCOTLAND
No, this is
yurting,
‘Bunny Assassin’
Sport and
In association with
pest control
313313
No. 003
Garden warmth – burn
off the autumnal chills
9
772047
Autumn 2011
Top tips on how to: Plan the
perfect Scottish Wedding
09
Scottish food festivals
What’s cooking?
£1.95
luxury-living under canvas
For your FREE e-edition subscription to Country Lifestyle Scotland, register at www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
life
C O U N T RY
SCOTLAND’S RURAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
SCOTLAND
Welcome
food and drink:
Fraser Balgowan’s luxury hampers
pages 4 to 6
Dundee Food and Flower Festival preview
pages 8 to 10
Galloway’s Flavour Fortnight preview
pages 11 to 13
Country sports: Art and crafts:
Rural craft classes and
The ‘Bunny Assassin’
luxury living under canvas in
combines sport and pest
Stirlingshire
control
pages 22 to 28
pages 16 to 17
to the autumn issue of
Country Lifestyle Scotland.
Food, glorious food, features highly in the
minds of the staff here at CLS Towers. Eating it,
obviously, but also the joy of discovering premium
producers doing their utmost to breed, grow, or
create, the best Scottish food possible. In this
issue we preview two food festivals. Galloway’s
Flavours Fortnight and Dundee Food and Flower
Festival, both of which champion the smaller food
producers, which otherwise might not get the
recognition they deserve.
Rabbits are the focus in our country sports
section, with the ‘Bunny Assassin’ taking aim,
combining both sport and pest control.
Of course, we know that everyone loves a good
wedding, and with The Scottish Wedding Show
coming shortly to Glasgow, we are previewing the
highlights of the show, and who you should look
out for, to make the most of your visit.
Are you the creative type? Our feature on West
Moss-side Farm, near Stirling, where you can
learn a rural craft skill, and also stay in one of their
fabulous yurts - see front page picture - is sure to
be of interest.
Finally, why not join us on our new facebook page
or follow updates on our twitter account; see
below for details.
Hope you enjoy it!
Karen
Karen Carruth, editor
Contact:
Weddings, gardens and travel:
Preview of the Scottish Wedding Show
Garden warmth – chimeneas and fire bowls
Travel – Home-from-home accommodation
Travel – Cromarty’s Royal Hotel refurbishment
pages 30 to 38
pages 39 to 40
pages 44 to 45
pages 46 to 50
Editor: Karen Carruth
Tel. 0141 302 7750
e.karen.carruth@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
Sales executive: Louise Jane McDonald Tel. 0141 302 7368
e.louisejane.mcdonald@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
Marketing: Natalie Noblet
Tel. 0141 302 7719
e.natalie.noblet@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
Advertising production: Joyce Brady
Tel. 0141 302 7747
e.joyce.brady@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
PA to publisher: Shirley Tulloch
Tel. 0141 302 7722
e.shirley.tulloch@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
Country
Lifestyle
Scotland
@countrylifescot
www.countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
Published by Newsquest Herald and Times Group Magazines, Glasgow
COUNTRYlifestyle / 3
food
Decadent, mouthwa
bespoke Scottish s
By Philippa Stephen
LOVE LUXURY? Going
shooting, fishing, or stalking?
Simply taking a weekend away
from it all and desire an opulent
treat? Which ever it may be,
Highland company, Fraser
Balgowan, has recently launched
a tailored answer with its food,
drinks and gift collections
which garner together the best
of quality Scottish produce,
delivered direct to your door.
Owned and run by farmer and
deer stalker Ewan Fraser, and
spearheaded by his wife Fiona, the
company was launched in June this
year from their base in Newtonmore,
Inverness-shire, to fill an emerging
gap in the luxury delivery service
of food, drink and gifts, which are
authentically and independently
Scottish.
The couple made sure that
distance was no object in the
sourcing of the award-winning and
luscious produce which is now
offered by Fraser Balgowan – and
their luxury tailored and bespoke
packages present a unique dining
and lifestyle experience, which is
simply not available in supermarkets
or on the High Street.
But it was their love of food
and country pursuits which initially
sparked life into Ewan and Fiona’s
business venture.
“As Ewan works as both a farmer
and a deer stalker in Inverness-shire
we have always been accustomed
to welcoming clients from all over
the world,” explained Fiona.
“We wanted to be able to offer
friends, visitors, tourists and locals,
a true Scottish experience in terms
of food, produce and gifts, whether
they were visiting Scotland to enjoy
the field sports or just to take a short
break away, without providing your
stereotypical hamper filled with the
cliché tartan and shortbread.
“This meant seeking out Scottish
independent produce and products
Sample Scotland! Fraser Balgowan doesn’t do singing haggis or tartan
shortbread tins! But if you’d like to sample some of today’s Scotland, savoury
and sweet, theirs is the right place. They have some serious, award winning
gems on their lists
suitable for people who want luxury
and quality – basically we wanted
to find and be able to offer the best
you could get,” said Fiona.
“We are proud that we offer food
and products of the highest quality
– including Great Taste Award
winners, favourites of Michelin
starred chefs and other products
which are supplied to many of the
very top hotels. Everything is 100%
Scottish, except,” conceded Fiona,
“for the wine!”
From farming, the couple are
understandably accustomed to the
knowledge of what makes animals
thrive, and how to get the best from
their breeding to ensure that their
products delight the most discerning
palate.
Fiona explains: “Our in-depth
research showed that many of the
worthy Scottish champions of the
table were heading south, reserved
for the best eateries, retailers and
hotels that frequently grace our
small screens these days. We
also discovered that many of the
products available in Scotland which
we had assumed were authentically
Scottish, in reality, weren’t!”
Fraser Balgowan now offers
fresh foods, including beef, which
is all reared and sourced from the
Cairngorms National Park, venison
and game – including pheasant,
partridge, grouse and duck – fish
and seafood, ham, deli foods, patés,
cheese, condiments, chocolates,
bakery, tweed and leather weekend
bags, cashmere, fine wines and
whisky to name but a few.
“Perfect at any time of the year
and especially for Christmas,”
explained Fiona. “And as well as
visitors, local residents like good
food too.”
Seafood too, has proved a
considerable favourite, all sourced
from fantastic suppliers, Fiona
added, including organic smoked
brown trout (which also comes
direct from the Cairngorms), wild
salmon, crab, oysters, mussels,
lobster, hand-dived scallops
and herring – whilst in terms of
refreshments, Scottish ciders, beers,
spirits and sloe gin and whisky
also rank highly on the majority of
customer wish lists.
But to the Frasers, the irony
was that many of their friends and
Glasgow Memory Clinic
sporting guests, searching for quality
and a wee bit of luxury, previously
looked online to specialist retailers.
However, the vast majority of
these, discovered Fiona, don’t have
a delivery service which is capable of
bringing offerings to the more rural
reaches of Scotland, the west coast,
its islands, or even as far north as
the Highlands.
Now, from their base in the heart
of the Highlands, Fraser Balgowan
Tel: 0141 948 0206 ● www.glasgowmemoryclinic.com
Pioneering New Treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease
4 / COUNTRYlifestyle
atering,
selections
aims to deliver all their food and gift
boxes throughout the UK within 24
hours.
The boxes are taken north to
Inverness to make the majority of
delivery connections throughout
Scotland and from here can also
travel worldwide by courier – but
for the more special of occasions,
Fraser Balgowan also offers the
ultimate in delivery options... direct
to your door, hand delivered by
helicopter.
“For something extra special,
our customers can also choose
to have their delivery presented in
our unique handmade tweed and
leather bags, which are made of
the world’s finest sporting tweed.
Alternatively, the bags can be
purchased on their own.”
Fiona designed these attractive
tweed bags herself and keeping
the rigours of outdoor use in mind,
each is made of hard wearing but
delightful tweed material from the
Borders.
“Our passion for using natural
and sustainable resources has also
driven our decision to use wool
fleece from hill sheep to package
our mail order food, drinks and
gifts,” added Fiona.
“As members of the Campaign
for Wool, we hope to demonstrate
its value as a safe, clean alternative
food
A Day Out! Fraser
Balgowan’s signature
hamper; you’ll feel
spoilt for choice and
taste on this day out.
It is a true reflection of
all that’s good about
Scotland’s larder
food
to polystyrene and plastics.
“We cut into the wool so that the food,
drink or gifts nestle within it – it protects
any glass, but also looks fantastic. Wool
also keeps anything cold and is food-safe,
performing better than many alternatives for
refrigerated goods,” she added.
In testament to the quality of their
produce, Fraser Balgowan has also
become a recommended supplier for CKD
Galbraith’s UK sporting and country lets and
the company is additionally a member of the
Guild of Fine Foods.
Looking towards the future, a number of
exciting developments are in the pipeline for
the husband and wife team, not least the
development of their collections of cashmere
for both around the home, and also to wear.
Interest from a major luxury US retailer
has additionally resulted in a forthcoming
collection by Fiona being shown in New York
later in the year.
“I’m looking forward to developing the
Fraser Balgowan brand,” explained Fiona,
who plans to focus on textiles and lifestyle
with a particular focus on Scottish heritage,
quality and craftsmanship. She was well
and truly bitten by the bug of designing the
company’s own tweed bags and has plans
afoot to create more opulent luggage, bags
and accessories from wild Scottish red deer
skin and more sporting tweeds.
“We know that the annual value of country
sports tourism to Scotland is somewhere in
the region of £240m and we believe we can
provide an important complementary service
to those currently on offer,” said Fiona.
“But we also create regular weekly orders,
holiday boxes, hampers, gift boxes, and
packages for Christmas, parties, occasions
or anything else you can think of! We’ve
been working hard to develop the services
we can offer you.
“It all began with passion and frustration in
equal measure,” she explained. “A passion
for food, for the land and for animals; for
what can be produced in Scotland when
good conditions, accomplished production
and a desire for excellence exist... and a
frustration that despite the abundance of
fantastic produce around, getting your
hands on it, in one place, was pretty
difficult.”
But with Fraser Balgowan, this difficulty
has now been dissipated – and getting your
hands on this fantastic produce is as simple
as accessing Fiona and Ewan’s website!
Whether you need
something delicious for a
dinner party, luxurious for
a gift, satisying for a day
outdoors, or decadent
for that special occasion,
Fraser Balgowan has a
mouthwatering selection to
choose from.
This includes cheeses
(above); or Cairngorm
National Park-sourced beef
(right) - all with the option
to have your bespoke and
tailored food, produce
and gifts presented and
delivered in the company’s
unique tweed or leather
bags (below)
■ Fraser Balgowan offer their unique
and quality service online at www.
fraserbalgowan.com where you can
search online for a gift or food package,
or where you can select and tailor your
own. Alternatively you can telephone
01540 670079 or email customers@
fraserbalgowan.com.
Fraser Balgowan can also be ‘liked’
online via Facebook at www.facebook.
com/fraserbalgowan or ‘followed’ on Twitter
at www.twitter.com/fraserbalgowan
food
Dundee food and
Cementing itself
The big attraction, Gino D’Acampo will be serving up a culinary storm at
Dundee Food and Flower Festival, as well as signing his latest book
By Sine Robertson
LINGUINE WITH Genoese
basil pesto, followed by lamb
saltimbocca with Marsala wine,
then chocolate and whisky trifle
with crushed pistachio nuts,
all prepared and served by the
dark eyed, Latin heart throb,
Gino D’Acampo, may sound like
a dream, but it’s a dream that
becomes reality this weekend – in
Dundee!
Dundee Flower and Food Festival
is due to attract more than 25,000
visitors, from Friday, September 2 to
Sunday 4, to see the celebrity chef
above, and attractions in the floral
hall, craft fair, Woodlands 4 Yew,
food and children’s marquees.
Events include cookery demos,
gardening advice from Monty Don,
a display of forestry and wood, a
Appropriately
for the city
built, in part,
on jam and
marmalade, the
Dundee event
will see the
announcement
of the first
‘World
Raspberry
Jampion’
The important business of judging the floral displays gets underway
competitive plant, produce and craft
show, a children’s activity marquee
and shopping arcades devoted to
food, flowers, crafts and lifestyle
accessories, accompanied by live
music.
The Food Festival marquee has
around 40 stands offering olive oils,
oatcakes and cheeses, fruit and
hedgerow wines and preserves,
freshly smoked haddock, locally
raised meats and sweet treats.
Its cookery theatre will host the
finals of the Desperate Dan-wich
healthy eating competition for
primary school children and the
Cupcake Challenge for secondary
school pupils. Among the guests will
be Quality Meat Scotland’s healthy
eating ambassador, the former Miss
Scotland and Miss UK Katharine
Brown.
BBC Gardeners’ World presenter,
Monty Don will speak, answer
questions and sign the book of his
TV series, ‘Italian Garden’. Monty,
whose roots in Dundee’s famous
Keillor Marmalade family were
traced in BBC’s TV programme
‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ will
also tour the marquees to meet
visitors.
Appropriately for the city built,
in part, on jam and marmalade,
the Dundee event will see the
announcement of the first ‘World
Raspberry Jampion’ – the winner
of a contest, named with tongue
in cheek. Launching the contest,
Willie Macleod of Scottish Preserves
said: “We are looking for the best
jams from home and abroad, and
the winners will be chosen from the
categories of Homemade, Artisan,
and Hotel/Restaurant/B and B, as
well as a ‘Junior Jampion’.”
d flower festival
food
f as a ‘must see’ foodie festival
Craft stalls
to tempt
you to
spend,
spend,
spend, are
plentiful
TV chef Gino D’Acampo, voted
King of the Jungle 2009 on ITV’s
‘I’m A Celebrity!’ will be cooking and
signing his books.
Balancing the celeb glitz, the
traditional flower and vegetable
show is testimony to the rewards of
hard work growing and preparing
top notch perfect vegetables and
blooms.
There are competitive classes
for fruit, vegetables, pot plants,
cut flowers, floral art, pallet
gardens, honey and hive products,
preserves, baking and wine. As
well as a comprehensive handcraft
competition, there is also a section
for children.
In the ‘International Year of
Forests’ themed marquee for
children are free activities and
competitions to make beasties and
bugs.
Throughout the show is a wide
range of live entertainment, from
Thomson-Leng Youth Music Theatre
previewing Bugsy Malone and Little
Shop of Horrors with splurge guns,
custard pies and fantastic melodies
to Bang On, an energetic junk
percussion using recycled objects
to play funky beats, culminating in
mass drumming with the audience.
There are traditional floral art
demos, face painters, Dirti Faces,
celebrating forest life and BletherTay-Gither, a local story-telling group
making story puppets.
Live music includes classic
jazz from Grace Black’s band,
Laura Boyd’s rhythm and blues,
powerhouse singer Kate Gieben
with her bluesy jazz band and the
Swizzle Sisters playing their own
tunes and country/folk covers.
Continued on next page
Who
says size
doesn’t
matter...
in this
vegetable
class it
does!
food
What’s on at Dundee food and flower festival
Continued from previous page
The Celebration of Dance has new street dance
moves and hip hop routines, the Baharitya Ashram
Dancers promoting Asian arts and culture throughout
society and the Smallpetitklein Dance Company, led by
Thomas Small, formerly of The Space, Dundee.
The performances go from the sublime to the
ridiculous. Chef Christopher Trotter and potato enthusiast
Alan Romans talking tatties in the kitchen, in history
and in the future of mankind or the Bread and Butter
Theatre with prima ballerinas Fifi Pavlova and Dame
Margot Fondue teaching the crowd how to perfect their
pirouettes or performing
emotional renditions of
classics such as The
Nutcracker, Swan Lake
and the Macarena.
Gino D’Acampo
will not be alone at
the range. A battalion
of chefs will keep the
hotplates sizzling with the
best of seasonal Scottish
produce to create
mouth watering meals in
minutes.
They include seasoned
demonstrators,
experienced on media
and professional teaching
platforms. See panel
opposite for more details.
Chefs on show:
BBC Gardeners’
World presenter,
Monty Don will
speak, answer
questions and
sign the book
of his TV series,
‘Italian Garden’
Jacqueline O’Donnell, chef/patron of The Sisters Restaurants, Glasgow,
focuses on Scottish seasonal produce on Fred MacAulay’s BBC Scotland
show and produces family and old classic dishes on STV’s The Hour.
Eadie Manson, works on TV and at Adam Smith College, Fife. He has
demonstrated at the BBC Good Food Show in Glasgow and worked with
Quality Meat Scotland to deliver training demos. Eadie will be cooking with
whisky.
Daniel Radtke, chef lecturer at Dundee College started working as a chef
in 1989 in Germany and worked in Gleneagles Hotel during the 2005 G8
summit.
David Rutter, chef lecturer at Dundee College, was senior chef de partie at
Murrayshall House Hotel, before becoming a full-time lecturer.
There are award winning professionals...
RED MEAT BUTCHERING
We at Highland Drovers offer a specialist butchering service
for conventional & organic beef, lamb and pork.
Working with local abattoirs, Highland Drovers runs a fully licensed
cutting plant in Perth.
We offer a bespoke butchering service which guarantees the integrity
of all products from farm to final packaging.
Our team are experienced and dedicated and we assure careful
maturation & preparation of all carcasses, vacuum packing as well as
personalised cutting and labelling.
ICONICALLY
SCOTTISH HIGHLAND BEEF
Looking to stock an iconic Scottish product on your shelves?
Highland Drovers supplies superbly packaged Highland beef for your
discerning local shopper which offers the retailer a healthy wholesale
price margin.
For more information contact us:
Tel:01738 561 523
Mobile:07789301751
Email: kenneth@highlanddrovers.co.uk
Highland Drovers
2/4 Mercian Buildings, Shore Road, Perth, PH2 8BD
Michelin Star chef and food columnist, Geoffrey Smeddle, Peat Inn, Fife,
has a formidable reputation and was named Chef of the Year 2010, while
2011 brought the accolade of AA Restaurant of the Year to Peat Inn.
Ross Marshall, Old Course Hotel, St Andrews, head chef in the three
Rosette, Road Hole Restaurant, won the award for Young Chef of the Year in
this year’s Scotland Food and Drink Awards.
Bruce Price, Apex City Quay Hotel, Dundee, was Scottish National Chef of
the Year in 1994, 1996 and 1998.
Andrew Mackintosh, Craigtay Hotel, Dundee, was Scottish Hotel Young
Chef of the Year, 2011.
David Cochrane, Dalmore Inn Restaurant, Blairgowrie, a former Student
Chef of the Year, now joint head chef, likes to bring new flavours, colours and
textures to Dalmore.
... and fans of seasonal local produce
Jonny Dunbar, head chef at Ducks at Kilspindie House, Aberlady, East
Lothian, is committed to seasonal, local and Scottish ingredients including
foraged wild plants and mushrooms.
Dominic De Franco, head chef of Bridgeview Station, Dundee, uses fine
dining techniques in his daily changing menu filled with local, seasonal produce.
Jason Henderson, Knock Castle, Crieff, is known for his contemporary
Scottish style which emphasises the finest Scottish produce - organic where
possible.
Graham Riley is head chef at the Landmark, Dundee’s Hotel of the Year.
The former chef proprietor of Lochside Lodge and Roundhouse Restaurant,
Lintrathen, Angus, Graham combines natural local produce and flavours with
a modern twist.
Fred Berkmiller, owner and chef, L’Escargot Bleu and L’Escargot Blanc,
Edinburgh, works with at least 45 food suppliers from UK and in France to
deliver high quality, simple French dishes.
food
Galloway’s flavour
Savour the flavour of
fortnight the region’s larder
By Karen Carruth
DUMFRIES AND Galloway are
staging a fantastic region-wide
celebration of their local food and
drink over a two week period,
beginning on September 3.
Flavour Fortnight unveils an
astonishing array of events and
opportunities for the public to
engage with the people and
producers behind Dumfries and
Galloway’s food and drink industry.
This fortnight coincides with the
Scottish Food and Drink fortnight,
and this year the event will be bigger
and better than previous years with
92 events taking place across 16
days.
Country Lifestyle Scotland has
taken a look at just a few of the
events that you can attend on these
pages, but there are, quite literally,
83 other events to get involved with.
The programme spans the entire
food and drink experience, from
farming and food production to fine
dining, and it includes a diverse
range of events that you can get
involved with.
The events which feature in
website guide (www.flavourfortnight.
co.uk) are designed to appeal to
people of all ages and all tastes, and
every one of the events has locally
produced food and drink at its heart.
The scale and variety of events on
offer will encourage you to try to find
out more about and to simply enjoy
indulging in the produce of Dumfries
and Galloway.
All the events are hosted by
members of Savour the Flavours,
the organisation that supports
Dumfries and Galloway’s food and
drink industry.
Some of the members are well
practised at sharing their passions
and opening their doors to the
public, but for many of the people
taking part in Flavour Fortnight
this could be the first time they’ve
organised an event.
Liz Ramsay, of Savour the
Flavours, Dumfries and Galloway’s
regional food organisation, said:
“Flavour Fortnight began last
Fungi Foray - one of several mushroom hunts that are available across
the fortnight (see online programme for other forage dates and venues)
When: Sunday, September 11 at
12.30pm
Where: Galloway Wild Foods
Galloway Forest Park, Venue TBC,
check website below for exact
details nearer date of forage.
W: www.gallowaywildfoods.com
Join Mark Williams of Galloway
Wild Foods on a guided forage
and discover the treasures to be
found in the woods and forests
of Galloway. Mark is passionate
about responsible foraging and
says Galloway is a forager’s
paradise, its mild, damp climate
and variety of habitats providing
perfect growing conditions for all
manner of delicious flora, fauna
and fungi. After stumbling on his
first chanterelles at 16, Mark’s
fascination with wild foods has
grown with him through his work
as fisherman, smoker, chef,
full-time wild food forager and
salesman. He has led forays for
the National Trust and written
cookery and wild food columns
for various publications. A trained
mountain leader with 12 years
service in Arran and Galloway
mountain rescue teams, he is
a safe pair of hands. Mark will
show you how to identify, pick
and cook Chanterelles, Ceps
and Hedgehog Fungi, among
others, and he’ll also tell you
how to identify and avoid their
more dangerous cousins. Sturdy
footwear is recommended as the
forage will cover several miles on
and off forest paths. A basket for
collecting your finds is essential.
Adults £6, children £3. Please refer
year with very modest ambitions
– we challenged local businesses
to connect with consumers by
doing something a bit different
during Scottish Food and Drink
Fortnight and we were absolutely
overwhelmed by the support from
our local food and drink industry.
They put together a spectacular
programme of events stretching
from Langholm in the east to
Portpatrick in the west and for 2011
Flavour Fortnight is twice as big and
twice as impressive.
“The programme this year is
full of fantastic ideas and local
businesses have put tremendous
effort, innovation and creativity into
their event development. It’s been
a joy to watch these ideas evolve
into fascinating events and I’m very
much looking forward to seeing
to www.gallowaywildfoods.com
for details. The rendezvous point
with directions and additional info
will be posted on the website by
Thursday, September 1.
local people and visitors sharing in
our region’s passion for local food
and drink during Flavour Fortnight.”
■ All the events in Flavour
Fortnight are organised by the
stated individual businesses. If you
have questions about any event in
Flavour Fortnight please contact the
organiser on the details provided.
Please note that booking is essential
for some events.
food
Galloway’s flavour fortnight
■ Some of the more unusual
experiences on offer include a wild
food forage around an art gallery,
a jazz themed afternoon of jam,
a literary celebration of food in a
bookshop, a Greek mezze made
with local food, an opportunity
to enjoy the first tilapia harvest
from Scotland’s first aquaponics
project, a gastronomic quiz event,
a multi-location menu plus touring
routes designed for motorbikes, a
menu showcasing Robert Burns’
favourite meals, a gourmet shooting
experience, an opportunity to meet
majestic Highland Cattle and full day
butchery demonstrations.
The event runs from September
3-18. The event is led by Savour the
Flavours of Dumfries and Galloway,
and is funded by LEADER and
Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Smoked Salmon
Journey
When: Saturday, September, 10
tours at 11am and 1pm
Where: Barony Country Foods
Carse of Ae, Lochmaben,
Lockerbie DG11 1SE
T: 01387 860487
E: enquiries@baronycountryfoods.
co.uk
W: www.baronycountryfoods.
co.uk
www.flavourfortnight.co.uk
www.savourtheflavours.co.uk
www.scottishfoodanddrinkfortnight.co.uk
Based in a converted farm
steading on the banks of the
River Ae, amidst the rolling
Dumfriesshire landscape, Ronnie
Graham and the team at Barony
Country Foods carefully prepare
and package a vast range of
local fine foods, including award
winning smoked salmon, smoked
venison, venison steak, sausages
and burgers.
On Saturday, September 10,
Ronnie will lead visitors through
the process of creating top quality
smoked salmon, including filleting
and salting before the freshly
caught salmon is placed in the kiln
for smoking. You’ll see how the
finished product is expertly hand
sliced and then vacuum packed
ready for sale, to lock in the flavour.
You’ll have the opportunity to
sample smoked salmon and a
variety of other Barony Country
Foods products, and you’ll be the
first to try their brand new product
- Hot Smoked Salmon with Piri
Piri.
Practical Beekeeping
When: Tuesday, September 6 and 13, 1pm - 3.30pm
approx
Where: South of Scotland Beekeepers Association,
Training Apiary, Barony College, Parkgate DG1 3NE
T: 01556 502804
E: bottle.steward3@btinternet.com
Ever fancied being a beekeeper and producing your
own honey? The flora and fauna of Dumfries and
Galloway makes delicious honey, and honey bees are also
fantastic pollinators, helping to produce bountiful crops of fruit
and veg. This half day taster course offers a fascinating insight into
the work of beekeepers and the opportunity to learn a little about honey bees.
You’ll have the chance to go into the Training Apiary to inspect bees in their hives with trained beekeepers,
and you might be inspired to get bitten by the beekeeping bug yourself! All necessary equipment and
protective clothing will be available.
Local Cheese and
Wine - Ewe to You
When: Wednesdays, September
7 and 14, 12pm - 4pm
Where: Millaries, Newton Stewart
DG8 8AL
T: 07810 162897
E: alan.brown165@btconnect.
com
Galloway Farmhouse Cheese
have been making good use of
their brand new cheese cellar to
create scrumptious new cheeses
from the milk from their flock of
dairy sheep (they’ve also been
making some new cow’s milk
cheeses too). Famous for their
award winning hard ewe’s milk
cheese, Cairnsmore, Galloway
Farmhouse Cheese have created
some delicious soft ricotta style
cheeses and they’ll be pairing their
distinctive and delicious cheese
creations with a selection of
local wines. Donations to RSABI
invited.
In addition to the two cheese and
wine events, the farm shop From
Ewe to You will be open MondayFriday 11am-4pm throughout
Flavour Fortnight.
Gourmet Shooting Experience
When: Saturday, September 17, from 9am
Where: Forrest Estate, Near St John’s Town of Dalry DG7 3XS
T: 01644 430015 E: andrew@tourismdoctor.com W: www.forrestestateexperiences.com
An introduction to the art of shooting and its traditions, with a mouth watering shoot lunch and
homemade tipples. This special shoot event will give you a taster of a typical shoot day. You’ll
enjoy a short explanation of the sport and its importance to rural communities followed by a
safety briefing and an opportunity to ‘have a go’ at clay pigeon shooting over five exciting sporting
stands simulating various game species including a bolting rabbit and a high pheasant. This will be
followed by a delicious ‘wild game’ shoot lunch provided at Forrest Estate by Chris Walker of the
Selkirk Arms Hotel and it will feature delicious local produce including Local Partridge Terrine with
Galloway Lodge Redcurrant Jelly, Forrest Estates Venison Casserole, tender Pot Roast Venison
with apricots and thyme, a Galloway cheese board with oatcakes and Galloway Lodge Poachers
Pickle. This event is also open to non shooters (adults) and is all-inclusive; all you need is some
outdoor clothing and boots. Cost £65 per person, booking essential.
food
The Smoking Process
When: Saturdays, September 3, 10 and 17, at 10am - 4pm
Where: Galloway Smokehouse, Carsluith, Newton Stewart DG8
7DN
T: 01671 820354
E: allan@gallowaysmokehouse.co.uk
W: www.gallowaysmokehouse.co.uk
Galloway Smokehouse is the home of prize winning smoked
Scottish salmon, trout, seafood and game. With the gentle
smouldering of whisky cask sawdust and high quality raw
materials, the resulting smoked delicacies, from the simple kipper
to the grand salmon, are a gourmet treat.
Each Saturday throughout Flavour Fortnight Allan Watson of
Galloway Smokehouse will demonstrate the smoking process.
He’ll show you how his daily catch, fresh from the sea, is
prepared, salted and smoked, and he’ll explain the differences
between mass produced smoked foods and the traditional
methods that imbue the produce with such wonderful flavour.
Meet the Milkers
When: Saturday, September
10, tours at 10.30am and
4.15pm
Where: Glen Urr Ice Cream,
Halmyre Farm, Haugh of Urr,
Castle Douglas DG7 3LB
T: 07801 582430
E: jane@glenurr.co.uk
W: www.glenurr.co.uk
Waulkmill Cider @ Kirroughtree
When: Sunday, September 18, 10.30am - 4.30pm
Where: Waulkmill Cider Orchard, Kirroughtree Visitor Centre,
Palnure, Newton Stewart DG8 7BE
T: 013873 70751
E: chris.mg3000@gmail.com
W: www.waulkmill-scottish-cider.co.uk
Take a tractor and trailer tour
to meet the milking herd of
prize winning Ayrshire cows
that produce the quality milk
and cream to make Glen Urr
Farmhouse luxuriously rich and
smooth ice creams.
Chris Harrison of Waulkmill Cider Orchard near Langholm
is passionate about apples and he’s reinventing the art of
Scottish cider making.
Waulkmill produces traditional still cider made with 100%
Dumfries and Galloway apples as well as delicious fresh
apple juice, apple dessert syrup and tangy apple cider
vinegar.
On Sunday the 18th, Chris will be sharing his passion
for apples with visitors
to Kirroughtree Visitor
Centre, giving talks
on Scottish apples,
particularly heritage
apples, describing how he
makes his cider and juice
and demonstrating with
his traditional apple press.
Find out about their daily routine
and the day to day life on the
farm and see the beautiful
countryside they enjoy at
Halmyre Farm.
Spaces are limited, so booking
is essential.
Whisky... but not as you know it
When: Saturday, September 17, at 10am - 2pm
Where: Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious, 207 King Street, Castle Douglas DG7 1DT
T: 01556 504006
E: thistlebscrumptious@googlemail.com
W: www.thistlebscrumptious.com
Discover how Scotch whisky has added flavour and bite to a whole host of delicious
treats. Thistle ‘B’ Scrumptious will be holding a whisky themed day of samples and
tastings to show how this quintessentially Scottish flavour enhances a wide range
of foods. This is an opportunity to sample many whisky flavoured products such as
balsamic dressing, scotch whisky syrup, scotch bonnet and whisky sauce, smoked
whisky salt, various whisky marmalades, malt whisky vinegar, and butterscotch and
whisky sauce.
sport
Charlotte makes her mark in the
country sports world
A PERTHSHIRE-BASED land
management firm has launched
a new web-based sporting lets
service which will help established
sporting estate owners yield
greater profits by using its 110
years experience to reach a
greater market at home and
abroad.
The idea for Bell Ingram’s new
venture came from one of its newest
members of staff Charlotte Gilfillan,
who has a wealth of experience in
country and sporting management.
Charlotte, 28, who is originally
from Durham, joined the Bell Ingram
team two years ago as a trainee
land agent, and has already proven
her worth, thanks to the sporting
lets business plan she devised for
the firm.
After researching the UK’s
sporting management companies,
Charlotte spent three months
finalising a plan which will develop
the land management services
offered by Bell Ingram, through
marketing sporting estates across
the country using a web based
approach giving them extra clout
and support.
Charlotte Gilfillan, spearheading a
new sporting lets scheme
Charlotte will take the leading
role in Bell Ingram’s Sporting Lets
scheme and will provide support
and advice to all sporting estates
involved, as well as attracting new
estates to join the existing portfolio.
Charlotte said: “The Sporting Lets
venture is something that I have
considered developing for some
time now as there is real potential for
Scottish estates to take advantage
of the income which can be made
from some of the UK’s most popular
shooting, stalking and fishing
activities.
“Bell Ingram is already well
established working with sporting
estates, so it seemed like a natural
progression for the firm and I am very
pleased that they considered my
business proposal and have agreed
to go ahead with the proposals.
“Scotland is an extremely popular
country to experience sports and
outdoor activities, with many people
visiting from the UK, Europe and
America.
Charlotte studied Countryside
Management at the Scottish
Agricultural College based in
Aberdeen, and is currently
undertaking a post graduate
diploma in Surveying, which she will
complete in April 2012.
During her studies she
developed a keen interest in deer
management and game keeping.
After graduation it was this that led
her to work on Letterewe Estate
on the west coast, one of the
most remote estates in Scotland.
Charlotte went on to become an
under keeper on Glenisla Estate in
the Angus Glens, cementing her
credentials as a land agent and
sporting estate manager.
As part of her role at Bell Ingram,
Charlotte is involved with rural
estate management, which includes
everything from forestry, sporting
and farming. She also provides
support and advice on property
selling, marketing and grant and
funding applications on behalf of
landowners.
After all that hard work for
Scotland’s rural estates, Charlotte
enjoys spending her spare time
taking advantage of the rural
pursuits Scotland has to offer.
The economic income of the
country sports sector cannot be
underestimated, with nearly half of
the UK’s 480,000 shooters coming
to Scotland to indulge in their sport.
That accounted for 1.75 million
overnight stays and generated
£240m gross value to the Scottish
economy.
See www.bellingram.co.uk for
more details.
Blair Atholl ranger centre is new gateway to the Cairngorms
A refurbished centre for the Atholl Estates Ranger Service has recently
need about the park, helping them make the most of their visit and to show
opened. A joint project between Atholl Estates and the Cairngorms National how the history and culture of Blair Atholl have helped shape the park.
Park Authority (CNPA), the centre is part of a scheme to upgrade ranger
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Atholl Estates to
bases throughout the Cairngorms National Park, which is the UK’s largest
deliver an upgraded and rebranded ranger centre. It’s a terrific example
national park.
of partnership working for
Last October, the
the benefit of, not only the
boundaries of the park were
immediate community, but
extended south to Blair Atholl,
across the park. It forms
making the historic village and
part of a wider programme
Atholl Estates’ landmark, Blair
of information, visitor and
Castle, a new gateway to the
ranger centre refurbishments
Cairngorms.
and will help to give visitors
Atholl Estates is one of
a memorable experience of
Scotland’s best known
the park.”
Highland estates. Its history
The ranger centre forms
dates back to the 13th
part of a group of projects on
century but through the ages
the same site in Blair Atholl
it has adapted to its time and
village, including a museum,
today it manages a range
which recently benefited
of operations in the tourism,
from a £2k contribution
events, forestry, farming,
from CNPA to upgrade the
property and country sport
storage facilities and archiving
sectors.
software.
David Green, the CNPA
The development project
convener, said: “Blair Atholl
also includes plans to build a
is a key location – it’s often
new visitor information centre,
seen as the gateway to the
public toilets, up to three
park from the A9. Having a
Members of Atholl Estates and Caringorms National Park Authority on the opening of the retails units and to upgrade
strong Cairngorms National
Atholl Estates Ranger Information Centre, July 29, 2011. Left to right – Amelia Farqhuar, Atholl the existing entrance and car
Park identity with the use of
Estates Marketing; David Green, convener CNPA; Kate Howie CNPA board member; David park.
Fallow, CNPA board member; John Cameron, Blair Atholl Cuntry Life Museum; Clair Troupe;
the Cairngorms brand and a
Atholl Estates Ranger Service; Andy Ford, visitor services officer CNPA; Polly Freeman, head www.atholl-estates.co.uk
National Park zone will give
people all the information they ranger, Atholl Estates Ranger Service
www.cairngorms.co.uk
sport
Run rabbit..
By Sine Robertson
Some farmers are happy to let
experienced people shoot rabbits
on their land, grateful to have the
rabbit population culled by people
who enjoy the task of vermin
control.
Paul Washington, ‘the bunny
assassin’ of Lochinver in
Sutherland, has gone one step
further. A seasoned ghillie and
gamekeeper, he has linked the
task of vermin control to the thrill of
the sporting shoot; furthermore, he
has polished the link by providing
access to accommodation,
creating an attractive package
for visitors. For himself, Paul has
founded a business which is
starting to flourish.
He takes up to three shooters,
paying to shoot rabbits flushed
out by ferrets, with the option to
have friends spectating in a safe
position, and advises them as to
essentials – third party insurance,
warm, waterproof clothes and a
supply of cartridges.
“Ferretting and rabbit shooting
is a very exciting and vastly
underrated sport. Many good
shots who are used to shooting
pheasants or even clay pigeons
don’t know the fun and excitement
to be had from trying to match the
speed of rabbits flushed by ferrets.
A lot of older people, farmers
and country sportsmen, say they
learned to shoot with rabbits,” he
said.
Paul describes flushed
rabbits as ‘fast, furious and
unpredictable as to direction’.
With driven pheasant, shooters
know the range and direction from
which the birds are coming and
shooting etiquette dictates the
narrow range, bound by shooting
neighbours, within which one can
aim, while clays are predictable,
released deliberately and with a
warning shout.
For those keen to shoot in
a spectacular location, Paul
can arrange shooting and
accommodation in Sutherland.
Paul works closely with
Kinlochbervie Hotel, but he
can help his guests to make
other arrangements if required.
Meanwhile, those who book into
the hotel can, according to season,
opt for additional sport in trout or
salmon fishing and sea angling.
Paul is widely experienced in
other branches of vermin control.
“I do a lot of mole trapping in
winter. I put an ad in The Scottish
Farmer saying ‘distance no object’
and I got work all over – from Fort
Augustus to Ayrshire! I don’t mind
travelling a distance if the farmer
can put me up. Mole hills do a lot
of damage; the soil can damage
the blades of the silage cutter, but
more importantly, the soil brings
bacteria into the silage and it can
spread listeriosis which causes
abortion or death in sheep and
cattle.”
“I work with Border terriers and
I sometimes go out foxing with
hound packs, but mostly I do dens
in spring for crofters and estates in
the north. It’s important to protect
the lambs from the devastation of
the fox,” he continued.
“The method for flushing
out rabbits from the burrows is
traditional; an exercise in team
work between me, the dogs
Ferrets
get to
see the
prize
and the ferrets, and it makes for
challenging shooting. You need a
fast reflex – and plenty cartridges,”
he laughed.
“There may be lots of rabbit
holes, but only some are occupied;
the terriers mark the ones that are
in use and tell me exactly where
the rabbits are. You want to work
with the wind in your face and stay
downwind of the rabbits. I put the
ferrets in – and wait for the rabbits
to appear. The ferrets are quite
slow, and if they get stuck, I trace
them from their locator collars and
have to dig them out, but generally,
the rabbits come racing out. You
wouldn’t hit a running rabbit with
an air rifle pellet, you need the
scatter of shot from a cartridge to
catch them. It’s a big challenge
and some people get frustrated; it’s
not easy until you build up some
experience, but it’s suitable for all
ages and levels of shooting ability,”
he explained.
■ For further information see
www.bunnyassassin.com or
contact Paul Washington 01571
855379
Shooting at
Kinlochbervie
..
sport
Paul and his Border
Terriers take in the
scenery on a shoot
Youngsters enjoy rabbitting and
before getting near a gun, learn
many important aspects of country
sports, including safety and the
handling and care of dogs and
ferrets
sport
A warm welcome awaits at the
SCAET charity clay pigeon shoot
THE SCOTTISH Countryside Alliance Educational Trust and World Pheasant Association
will once again be holding the Black Grouse Charity Shoot in Fife, raising much-needed
funds for research into black grouse conservation and work in education about the Scottish
countryside.
Shooting will be in the morning and will be followed by a splendid lunch courtesy of Winston
Churchill Venison, with local beef and lamb products from Highland Drovers.
This year the charity shoot will be combined with an
exhibition and sale of paintings and etchings by the late
Timothy Greenwood, a founder member of the World Pheasant
Association. There will be around 120 paintings on display,
particularly appropriate to Scotland, such as grouse, ptarmigan,
wildcats, osprey, roe and red deer and red squirrels. Many
of those exhibited will be included in the Silent Auction on
the day. A selection of Timothy’s art can be seen on www.
wildlifeartbytimgreenwood.com
The whole event promises to be huge fun, with challenging
shooting, good company and a superb exhibition.
Where: The Scottish Clay Shooting Centre, Nr Leuchars, Fife
When: Friday, September 23, 2011
Tickets are available for individuals at £150, teams of four at £650.
For further information, contact SCAET on 01620 850 977
White Eared Pheasants
painting, an example of
Timothy Greenwoods art
which will be displayed and
sold at the shoot. Around 120
pieces will be on display
Date for your diary: Sporting Drinks Party at Bonhams in Edinburgh,
on Thursday, November 3, with all proceeds going to the Scottish Countryside Alliance.
Tickets £20. Contact 01620 850 977 for more details.
WANTED
OLD FISHING TACKLE
WANTED
HARDY FISHING TACKLE
OLD AND MODERN - also other makes of old quality tackle
Strathmore Fishing Tackle is based in Dunblane near Stirling, Scotland
•
•
•
We BUY in vintage fishing tackle such as:
Reels - brass, wooden and aluminium alloy
Rods - split cane and modern materials
Accessories - knives, scissors, tool kits, oil bottles etc
We are always looking to PURCHASE vintage fishing tackle.
Think of the MONEY in your attic, shed, store
or old fishing box/bag lying in the corner
HARDY and other quality old tackle.
View a selection of the items we sell on our web page
strathmoretackle.co.uk
If there is a specific item you are looking for then please contact us
and we may be able to source it for you.
STRATHMORE FISHING TACKLE IS A
FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN DUNBLANE
We deal in all types of old fishing tackle.
We have special interest in Hardy both old and modern.
Distance is not an issue. We are willing to travel the
length and breadth of Scotland and Northern England.
Clients are of course welcome to visit us in Dunblane.
We are always interested in purchasing items
or collections of vintage tackle.
We pride ourselves on our absolute discretion
and ability to offer best prices.
Please telephone: 01786 823361
Or email: strathmoretackle@btinternet.com
LAWRIE & SYMINGTON
COUNTRY SUPPLIES
LANARK AGRICULTURAL CENTRE
Come and visit our country supplies shop for a wide selection
of country clothing including an extensive range of
Sherwood Forest clothing, a new season Joules range,
Horseware Ireland and new Toggi.
All at very competitive prices save on Joules with 20% off
on the entire range for a limited period.
Also animal feed, animal health equestrian range, pet food,
gardening, footwear, hardware and general supplies,
household goods, jams,etc.
Open Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm ● Saturday 9am – 1pm ● Sunday 10am – 2pm
All enquiries - Tel: 01555
660 099
sport
Scheme to put shooters in Grouse 0, Partridge 1
touch with local farmers
BASC Northern Ireland and the
Ulster Farmers’ Union have joined
forces to put farmers who are in
need of pest control in touch with
people who shoot.
The new scheme will allow
members of both organisations
to get together to try and prevent
damage caused by pests.
BASC NI is now calling on
members in Northern Ireland to get
in touch to register for the scheme.
Tommy Mayne, BASC Northern
Ireland director, said: “The most
effective way of reducing pest
damage is by shooting but some
farmers have reported difficulty
in making contact with shooters.
Therefore the BASC NI team is
offering to put BASC NI members
in touch with their local farmers who
may be experiencing difficulties with
pests.
“We have previously worked
with the Ulster Farmers’ Union on
a number of legislative issues that
have been of mutual interest such
as the Welfare of Animals Bill and
the Dogs (Amendment) Bill and we
are delighted to be able to work with
the UFU again on this initiative.”
Ian Marshall, Ulster Farmers’
Union deputy president, said:
“Farmers have an increasing
problem with pest control on farms
and this scheme provides a win-win
situation for shooters and farmers.
BASC get access to new areas for
shooting opportunities and farmers
get much needed help with pests
that are damaging crops and
spreading disease. I would hope all
BASC members would register as
soon as possible to get the scheme
up and running.”
■ If you would like to join the
scheme, contact the BASC
Northern Ireland team on 02892
605050 or email nire@basc.org.
uk with your BASC membership
number, postcode and mobile
phone number. BASC NI will put
UFU members in touch with their
closest registered BASC members.
The scheme will be launched at the
end of August once the register of
shooters has been compiled.
A similar control scheme for
pigeons was launched by BASC
and the NFU in East Anglia in
March.
A SHORTAGE of grouse numbers in Scotland will create the perfect
conditions for a boom in partridge shooting, according to Bell Ingram’s
Sporting Lets division, which has highlighted that many shooters have
been disappointed at the start of the season as dwindling numbers of
grouse on some of Scotland’s moors have been reported.
Although many shooting enthusiasts are expected to pay record prices
for red grouse – which are only found on Britain’s heather moorlands
– the difficult breeding season in 2011 has already led to the cancellation
of many days that were planned in Scotland since the season began on
August 12, as the low numbers of birds cannot match the high demand
for shooting.
But despite the limits on grouse shooting, Bell Ingram Sporting Lets
believes that demand for driven partridge days will rise dramatically over
the coming weeks as shooters look for alternative arrangements to grouse
days.
Charlotte Gilfillan, who heads Bell Ingram’s Sporting Lets division, said
that partridge shooting represented a cheaper alternative to grouse drives
and – as the birds were more plentiful – shooters would not experience the
same cancellations that had befallen the grouse season
She added: “We’ve had another very harsh winter followed by some
challenging conditions on the moors for the rest of the year, which has
significantly affected the numbers of birds available.
“Although prices for grouse shooting are now at a premium of between
£150 to £160 per brace of birds shot, the numbers just aren’t there to
satisfy demand.
“However, we’re noticing that partridge shooting is becoming the
natural substitute for grouse days in Scotland this year, even though the
season starts on September 1. At around £28 to £35 per bird, it’s a less
expensive option – but the experience can be just as exciting as a grouse
shooting.
“We’ve already seen a big increase in enquiries and sales for partridge
shooting on our estates in recent weeks – mostly from people who had
grouse days planned but have been told that these have been cancelled.”
Safety in the countryside
Protect yourself from disease
with the TickStop range of
outdoor clothing and logging
gear from Safeguy.
TickStop clothing has a unique
tick proof repellant barrier built
into the fabric to guarantee your
safety from potentially lethal
ticks which carry, amongst other
things, deadly Lyme’s disease.
When walking through woods
or heathland, particularly in
areas where there are deer
around, you should be aware
that there are probably a whole
army of these little arachnids,
just waiting for the next warm
blooded animal (whatever shape
it might be) to hop onto with the
intention of wriggling through
to the skin for a free meal!
Any unfortunate tick hopping on
to a Tick Stop trouser however,
will get more than it bargained
for, as the TickStop barrier takes
over and not only confines the
tick to a limited radius of travel,
but also gives it a quick send off
(within a few seconds).
This technology is available
not only in a top quality outdoor
trouser
(non-waterproof),
gaiter and jacket, but also in a
chainsaw proof bib and brace
for logging etc.
Perhaps the most popular item in
the Safeguy tick repellant range
is the TickStop gaiter. Protecting
the wearer from dew, mud, dirt
abrasion and most importantly
–ticks, this fabulous product is
a must for every farmer, deer
stalker, forester, ranger and
country walker in Scotland.
Safeguy also has a full range of
safety equipment for all manner
of risks and work environments,
and this can be found in their
catalogue on the downloads
page at www.safeguy.co.uk.
Especially of interest to country
lovers is the forestry sector on
pages 248 - 254.
The Treehog range
(featured in the advert
opposite) is a good
basic range including
a basic chainsaw
trouser,
jacket,
helmet, wellington
and gloves – all with EN
Standard chainsaw protection
built in and they also have more
specialist chainsaw gear for the
professional forester or arborist
and other popular outdoor lovers
clothing such as Le Chameau
stalking boots- pages 116 & 117
and V12 Waterproof Riggerspage 40.
Give Safeguy a call today to
discuss safety in the country
side!
craft
Teach
Photo courtesy of digitalelephant.co.uk
Craft courses, conferences and luxury
yurt living – all at this Stirlingshire farm
Kate Sarkey outside one of her yurts at West Moss-side
The foyer of the refurbished West Moss-side
Farmer’s Pride
With almost half-a-century of
experience creating an unrivalled
range of farming and country
pictures, fine art print publisher
Hood and Broomfield bring the past
right up to date with an invitation to
go online and browse their colourful
website catalogue farmingpictures.
co.uk guaranteeing a treat for the
eyes of farming families everywhere.
A Breed Apart
Hood and Broomfield present a
huge choice of high quality, artist
signed collector prints in limited
editions by top country artist,
Anthony Forster, whose work has
sold nationally and internationally
in this unique, lifetime
collaboration between painter and
publisher, capturing not only the
passing scene, but the many breeds
of cattle and working animals that
inhabit the farming landscape,
Forster’s pictures masterfully
record the workaday world of
proud generations of farmers.
Hood and Broomfield offer
a superb, prompt mail-order
service, bringing well-packed and
beautifully presented pictures to
your door via their secure
on-line shopping service.
The website has all the
pictures and information you
need to buy on-line, but if
you prefer to deal personally,
telephone orders and enquiries
are welcomed by the partners
in their popular, traditional
gallery in Newcastle under
Lyme, where their publishing
craftsman framing and
expert picture restoration
skills are based.
If you need inspiration for
that special gift for birthdays, a
retirement present or at Christmas
time, then look no further than
farmingpictures.co.uk for a lasting
visual treat that is certain to be
hung in pride of place by all who
live or work in the countryside,
everywhere.
tranquility
hingatand
West Moss-side
By Jacqueline Adamson
NOT ONE to rest on her laurels, Kate
Sankey, has to be applauded for making full
use of her 150-acre farm, West Moss-side,
near Thornhill, in Stirlingshire.
On my visit I couldn’t fail to be impressed by
her enthusiasm for the organic conservation
farm and its surroundings on the edge of
Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve.
Born in Dundee, Kate’s family moved
south to England. She was later to study
Environmental Science at Southampton
University, which stood her in good stead
when upon moving back to Scotland more
than 25 years ago; she lectured at Stirling
University.
She has always been interested in teaching
and learning in environmental education but
when she left the University in 2006 it was to
concentrate her attention on the farm which at
that time was based solely on farming organic
Shetland beef cattle, hay and oats.
Six years ago, however, she decided to
undertake a ‘sustainable conversion’ of the
craft
19th century farm steading and hayloft which
was completely transformed to create a
new high-quality venue for group meetings,
seminars, educational visits, craft workshops
and IT training events.
“I contacted the Government Farm Business
Diversification Scheme (now part of the
Scottish Rural Development Programme) and
was provided with advice on how to produce
a business plan and apply for funding,” Kate
explains. “I had to make sure that my ideas
were financially viable and would provide a
return in the long run. Once I’d worked out
a viable plan, I stuck to my environmental
principles by sourcing natural, local and reused
materials…and also tried to keep costs down.”
Ebay, surprisingly, was key to this process
with a number of items – including the fantastic
staircase at the centre of the project – being
sourced there.
“I also received mentoring support through
the Trossachs Enterprise and Rural Mentoring
Scheme (TERMS) gaining valuable marketing
advice. I have also acted as a mentor
Continued on page 24
Intricate birchcraft classes in full flow
Puddle Jumpers
Puddle Jumpers childrens clothing is going from strength to strength they are still
based on the family dairy farm in Buxton Derbyshire but have now branched
out into Adult clothing. Launched last year were the Adult waterproof trousers,
after being asked if the childrens range would fit adults owner Lynne Hodgkinson
decided to make trousers for adults.
The Bestselling colour for adults is bright pink for those females that want to
look a bit different and are fed up with the ranges on offer for men.
Puddle Jumpers now
stocks Lazy Jacks, a range
of clothing for Ladies
and children, comprising
brightly
coloured
sweatshirts and gilets which
cean be mixed and matched
to suit any wardrobe. Check
out the puddle Jumpers
website for more details.
Puddle Jumpers is still
best known for its childrens
range
of
waterproof
providing great value for
money and easy to look
after as they can be thrown
into the washing machine
and tumble dried.
Lynne is now looking
for stockists in and around
Scotland, if you are
interested in selling Puddle
Jumpers waterproofs please
feel free to give Lynne call
on 01298 83812 or mobile
07974 735656.
Because kids will be kids
Breathable waterproofs
for ages
12 months to 10 years.
Fantastic fleeces and sweatshirts
with country designs.
New in:
Lazy Jacks Casual Wear
For Adults & Children
For quick ordering, order online at:
www.puddlejumpers.co.uk
or call 01298 83812
craft
Teaching and
tranquility at
West Moss-side
Attendees at the craft courses, from willow log-baskets, spoon carving, paper making, painting, and decorative
vases - the courses are varied, and are taught by professional tutors
The conference room
at West Moss-side. The
farm is a mult-functional
destination, with craft
course, conferences, and
even weddings being
catered for
Photo courtesy of David Miller
through TERMS to other rural
entrepreneurs on areas where I have
a lot of experience, including farm
diversification.
The conversion took around a
year to complete and Kate has
decorated the interior with local
arts and crafts, resulting in a unique
tranquil space which is used for a
wide variety of activities and events
from craft courses to conferences.
“We’ve even had a wedding held
here!” says Kate.
West Moss-side is now a
multi-functional venue - all facilities
have been developed in order to
encourage access and educational
opportunities at the farm and the
surrounding land, including Flanders
Moss National Nature Reserve – the
very special wild landscape of a
lowland raised bog.
The renovation has been done
to the highest of environmental and
design standards whilst maintaining
the intrinsic structure and character
of the 19th century farm building. It
is a stunning space which will inspire
with its stone, slate, and wood
and stimulating visions with the
panoramic views of mountains and
farming landscapes.
The building is now also home to
a large and very functional kitchen
which is used to cater for courses
and meetings or can be hired for
special events.
The very best educators, tutors
and adventurers have been sought
out to share their knowledge
and experience and the centre
attracts visitors intent on improving
themselves, meeting like-minded
folk and simply enjoying the unique
environment.
Kate herself is a basket-weaver
and much of her work can be
found in and around the centre.
She takes her inspiration from the
local surroundings and can make
the most beautiful baskets from the
willow she grows herself as well as
straw, purple moor grass, birch and
willow bark and rushes found on
the farm and within Flander’s Moss
– nothing goes to waste!
Courses organised for this
autumn include willow log-baskets,
tutored by Pascal Carr, spoon
carving with Jon Warnes, paper
making with Charmian Pollok,
painting with Darren Rees and
decorative vases by Georgia Crook.
There are many more so you are
sure to find something that appeals.
Both Darren and Charmian
display their work within the West
Moss-side Centre and along with
Kate, they took part in this year’s
Forth Valley Open Studios event
– where local artists open their
doors to the public.
Charmian’s current work
incorporates items she has found
alongside her own handmade
Scottish plant papers, while Darren
has been producing award-winning
paintings for over two decades. His
paintings encompass work from the
Arctic to the Amazon!
Looking to break into the broader
eco-tourism market as well as
enabling her to offer residential craft
courses, Kate decided in late 2008
to have three authentic Krygyk yurts
(circular wooden framed ‘tents’
– the homes of the nomadic people)
built by Paul Millard of Red Kite
Yurts who is based locally, with help
from Krgykstan yurt builder, Nurlan,
from the southern village of Kyzyl
Tuu.
This project was part supported
by the Scottish Rural Development
Programme though Kate remarked
on the complicated and time
consuming process of application
which took the best part of a year.
This is the first season for the
Trossachs Yurts and the guest book
is full of adjectives like magical,
enchanting, unforgettable, fabulous,
Furniture Farm
Sheepskin Footstools
It all started 16 years ago
with the creation of the
first sheep for my daughter.
From that friends and
relatives who saw it wanted
one and the rest as they
say is history. The first bull
came along pretty soon
after as we expanded our
breeding program to fulfill
that need.
The bulls now make up
75% of Furniture Farms
product range. As our expertise continues to become more refined. Our
animals are often bought as presents for farmers, vets, other animal admirers
and those who would like a trouble free pet (ie completely housetrained No vets bills - No fuss diet). They become part of the family.
At Furniture Farm we
create sheepskin footstools
and seats from the finest
natural materials. These
wonderful pets come in
a variety of colours and
sizes. Order yours today!
FURNITURE FARM
SHEEPSKIN
FOOTSTOOLS
Completely housetrained! Fuss Free Diet!
No vet bills! Sponge clean and brush dry!
Wonderful pets, become part of the family
and make excellent presents.
Our bulls and sheep have been
making people smile for over twelve years.
For further information please call
01638 751 830
Mail order most welcome!
www.FurnitureFarm.co.uk
For more information
please telephone
01638 751 830 or visit
www.FurnitureFarm.co.uk
Scotland leads in
Alzheimer’s research
Glasgow Memory Clinic continues to
lead the way in Alzheimer’s research in
Scotland.
The Clinic, founded almost 12 years
ago by Consultant Physician Dr Fraser
Inglis FRCP (Edin, Glas) has uniquely
in Scotland conducted research on all
of the currently licensed treatments
for Alzheimer’s disease. “ We have
conducted research on Aricept (Donepezil), Exelon (Rivastigmine), Reminyl
(Galantamine) and Ebixa (Memantine). That’s going back quite a long
time now” recalls Dr Inglis.” The first
programmes I was involved with were
studies of Exelon (Rivastigmine) when I
worked in Dundee in 1993”.
It is over 14 years since Aricept
(Donepezil) became the first drug to
be licensed for Alzheimer’s disease
in the U.K. It was followed in 1998
by Exelon (Rivastigmine) and then
Reminyl (Galantamine) in 2000 and
Ebixa (Memantine) in 2002. There have
been no new treatments licensed since
2002 although research activity has continued with many recent trials showing
negative results.
“A negative Alzheimer’s trial result
while very disappointing is not of
course negative for Alzheimer’s research” says Dr Inglis “because we can
learn a great deal from trials that have a
negative result”.
“We must remember” says Dr Inglis
“that Alzheimer’s disease was only described by Dr Alois Alzheimer in 1906.
Incredible advances have been made in
terms of our understanding of the condition in the last 100 years and I think
it is fair to say that most researchers
remain optimistic that new and more
effective treatments will be found”.
“One of the things that I find interesting is how medicine changes and if we
think for a moment about the situation
faced by patients and carers 15 years
ago there were no treatments available
that doctors could specifically prescribe
to help the symptoms of Alzheimer’s
disease”.
The treatments that are currently prescribable are symptomatic treatments.
That is they can improve some of the
symptoms such as memory loss that
patients with Alzheimer’s suffer. The
treatments are however not thought to
affect the underlying disease process.
This is the accumulation of protein
plaques (Amyloid plaques) and protein
tangles that accumulate in the brain in
Alzheimer’s disease and are thought to
be instrumental in causing the illness.
Why do these plaques and tangles
accumulate?
This question is a source of intense
research. We know that some people
carry genes that are linked the development of Alzheimer’s disease. A faulty
gene can accelerate the formation of
Amyloid plaques.
New treatments such as vaccines that
are currently being developed are
“
EXCESSIVE RESERVATIONS AND
PARALYSING DESPONDENCY
HAVE NOT HELPED THE SCIENCES
TO ADVANCE NOR ARE THEY
HELPING THEM TO ADVANCE,
BUT A HEALTHY OPTIMISM
THAT CHEERFULLY SEARCHES
FOR NEW WAYS TO
UNDERSTAND, AS IT IS
CONVINCED THAT IT WILL
BE POSSIBLE TO FIND THEM.
”
Quotation by Dr Alois Alzheimer,
German Neurologist, 1864-1915
designed for example to try and prevent
the accumulation of Amyloid plaques
and/or facilitate their removal.
The hope is that if the vaccines can prevent the accumulation of the Amyloid
proteins and/or facilitate their removal
that this will have a major impact on
the disease process.
Alzheimer’s vaccines featured
prominently at the recent International Congress on Alzheimer’s Disease
(ICAD) held in July 2011 at the Portes
de Versailles, Paris.
Staff from Glasgow Memory Clinic
attended the congress to learn of new
developments in the field and also
presented a lecture to an international
team of researchers as the current lead
centre for a large international Alzheim-
er’s vaccine study.
Glasgow Memory Clinic entered
the first patients in Scotland in an
Alzheimer’s vaccine trial in 2007. The
expertise of the clinic in this field of
medicine in Scotland is unique.
Alzheimer’s vaccine work at the clinic is
ongoing and remains a very important area of research in this field of
medicine.
There is increasing interest in trying to
identify Alzheimer’s disease at the earliest opportunity, in the Pre Symptomatic
or Prodromal phase.
In Prodromal Alzheimer’s disease only
very early symptoms such as memory
loss may be apparent.
The diagnosis of Prodromal Alzheimer’s disease can now be achieved using
sophisticated scanning techniques, gene
tests and measuring proteins in the
spinal fluid.
“The ability now to detect Alzheimer’s
disease at the very earliest stages is an
important and exciting advance” says
Dr Inglis.
People who have an established diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or those
who are concerned about a decline in
memory function can contact the clinic
and find out if they may be suitable
to participate in any of the research
programmes running.
There will be an initial telephone
interview followed if appropriate by an
appointment.
To participate in studies patients must
be accompanied by a carer.
The clinic was founded in 1999 at the
Golden Jubilee National Hospital in
Clydebank and relocated to the West of
Scotland Science Park, Glasgow in 2006
initially to Technology Terrace and then
to the new eco friendly Altum Building
in 2009. The Altum building has excellent parking facilities outside.
There is no charge at all for attending
the clinic.
All medical care and study medication
is provided completely free of charge.
Travel expenses are reimbursed for
those participating in studies.
The clinic now has over 20 staff and is
the most experienced research facility
of its type in Scotland.
“It has taken a long time and a lot of
very hard work to develop the clinic”
says Dr Inglis.
“It is easy to talk about doing research
and another thing to actually do it. I
am sure some people might imagine
themselves as farmers – you might say
well go ahead and try it”!
Scotland and indeed Scottish farming
already has its place firmly in the history books in terms of finding a cure
for dementia.
Sir Alexander Fleming born on 6th
August 1881 at Lochfield Farm near
Darvel, Ayrshire discovered Penicillin.
“This is the reason why as a practising
doctor since 1987 I have never seen a
single case of dementia due to Syphilis”
says Dr Inglis.
Flemings’ discovery of penicillin essentially eradicated this once common
form of dementia that afflicted people
following the return of Columbus and
his men in 1493 until the mass production of penicillin in 1945. A period of
about 450 years.
“We do however see each day patients
suffering from dementia due to
Alzheimer’s disease.
It is essential that we continue to strive
to find better and more effective medicines to treat and ideally prevent the
development of Alzheimer’s disease.
That is a goal worth achieving and we
remain hopeful that this will in due
course become a reality”.
Dr Fraser Inglis is a Consultant
Physician and Director of Research
at Glasgow Memory Clinic,
The Altum Building, Todd Campus,
West of Scotland Science Park,
Glasgow G20 OXA, Tel 0141 948 0206,
www.glasgowmemoryclinic.com
craft
Front cover photo, and below, courtesy of katyburgess.com
The inside of the yurt, with
double bed and cosy wood
burning stove. You can’t
fail to be affected by the
peace. The yurts can be
hired out while attending
the courses or just for a
different type of holiday
under canvas.
Teaching and tranquility at West Moss-side
Continued from page 24
beautiful, relaxing, peaceful, friendly,
spectacular. Many speak of sleeping
better than ever before. With
stunning views of Ben Lomond,
Ben Ledi and Ben Vorlich and the
Flanders Moss Nature Reserve
right on the doorstep, there is
plenty to attract those with an
adventurous spirit and a great
love of the outdoors to stay in her
beautiful and very comfortable yurts
which are 18 foot in diameter and
built on platforms with generous
surrounding decking.
A boardwalk leads to the first
yurt, named Stuc a’Chroin, in Kate’s
orchard paddock. Sticking to her
principles, Kate had the board
walk constructed from recycled
scaffolding planks which came with
partly non-slip red paint!
From the decking of the yurts there
are panoramic big-sky views to the
west across Flanders Moss National
Nature Reserve to Ben Lomond and
the Arrochar Alps and north to the
mountains of the Loch Lomond and
the Trossachs National Park – Ben
Ledi, Ben Vorlich and Stuc a’ Chroin.
The two yurts in the woodland
beyond are reached by a path
which meanders alongside a
growing willow hedge, planted by
Kate herself, and across a bridge.
More board walk and decking gives
plenty of space to sit, and to take
advantage of all of this aesthetic
ambiance, each yurt has a picnic
table and barbeque.
Inside they are really cosy with
wood burning stoves – specially
lit for your arrival and including
your first basket of logs. The stoves
have an oven so you can be as
adventurous as you like. One family
who came to stay even slow-cooked
a leg of lamb, and marshmallows are
a hit with the children.
The furniture and soft furnishings
all reflect the scenery around
the farm. They provide a special
environment where you can
experience solitude and tranquillity
within a stunning landscape.
West Moss-side Organic
Shetland Beef is another of Kate’s
projects. She has a herd of six
breeding Shetland cows. The beef
is hung and butchered by Highland
Drovers, in Perth, and is proving a
big hit with, not only the locals who
return time after time, but now also
those who come to stay in the yurts
and wish to have a barbeque.
Kate is on the board of the
Loch Lomond and Trossachs
National Park Authority and is also
a facilitator with LANTRA – and
therefore keen to help other rural
businesswoman to build on the
skills and ideas they have and
develop rural businesses.
It is little wonder that Kate has
no trouble in filling her courses
and events diary with enthusiastic
participants when she has so much
to offer in the way of new things
to learn and an abundance of
inspiration.
■ For further information on
arts and crafts courses or
Trossachs Yurts go to www.
westmossside.com or email
kate@westmossside.com
fashion
Barbour
extends
children’s
wear range
Demand for children’s wear is huge for autumn/
winter 2011, claims Barbour. Adult favourites
are recreated for the younger generation in a
selection of best selling styles.
Waxes include the signature Bedale jacket
and Rose Utility with its pretty Liberty rose lining
for girls, while the International jacket and Union
Jack International with its distinctive lining sorts
out the boys.
For young ladies, a snug International
Polarquilt in four striking colours, purple, orange,
black and red means that choosing a favourite is
a very hard task.
The Liddesdale quilt, so popular amongst its
adult following, is produced in a crescendo of
colours, guaranteed to make children stand out
in the playground. For cold winter mornings,
the children’s Duffle ticks all the boxes – in a
luxurious wool and seven different colours with
large pockets for all those break time essentials,
it’s a must have item this season.
A Tartan Tarras and Rose print Tote bag
complete the look for young ladies and ensure
they truly are the height of sophistication.
From age 4 upwards.
Above: Boys classic bedale jacket - from £109.00
Inset: Unisex red duffle coat - from £139.00
See www.barbour.com for full range.
The Winter Issue
Published – NOVEMBER 26
Contact Louise Jane McDonald
on 0141 302 7368 or
email: louisejane.mcdonald@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
for all your
advertising requirements
weddings
Say ‘I do’ to Scotland’s
biggest wedding show
The Scottish wedding show is on its way.
CLS highlights the must see attractions to
help make your wedding perfect in every way
By Karen Carruth
WITH MORE than 300 exhibitors,
the Scottish Wedding Show is,
without doubt, where you ought to
be, if you are involved in planning a
wedding.
Scotland’s biggest and best
event for brides-to-be, The Scottish
Wedding Show, is back at the
SECC, Glasgow, September
17-18, 2011. The show will bring
together leading specialist wedding
companies, showcasing everything
needed to make the big day just
perfect.
Visitors to the show will see all
the latest products and services,
from wedding planners to romantic
honeymoons and everything in
between. Book a seat to relax
and watch the spectacular fashion
show, which will be staged four
times each day. The catwalk will
feature top models and the largest
bridal collection in Scotland, from
top designers and well-known high
street names, for the bride, groom
and the bridal party.
Plan your visit
See your dream dress come to
life at the largest bridal collection
catwalk show in Scotland with
outfits to entice the groom, mother
of the bride and bridesmaids. Four
shows each day: 11.00am, 1.00pm,
3.00pm and 4.45pm.
Some established names as well
as new companies will feature at the
show:
Bridal: Ayrshire Bridal Centre, Bijoux
Bridal Boutique, Etiquette Bridal
Couture, Joyce Young for By Storm,
Opus Couture, Reeta Fashions,
Vintage Bridal Couture.
Bridesmaids: Little Deva
Mother of the Bride: Frox of Falkirk
Tickets start at just £9, so get along and join in the fun. For further details see www.thescottishweddingshow.com
Groomswear: Kilts 4U, McCalls
Ltd, Moss Bros, Slater Menswear
NEW feature at this show
- The Real People
Catwalk show
The launch of The Real People
Catwalk was due to visitors’
comments saying that the
models on the catwalk were not
representative of the shape of every
bride/bridesmaid/mother of the
bride and show organisers have
decided to include The Real People
Catwalk as an additional feature of
the show.
Entries were submitted by visitors
to the spring show in February
2011 and from hundreds of entries
received, there is now 11 finalists
(nine female and two male) who
have now been selected. Each
of the finalists will take to the new
‘Catwalk for Real People’ to model
a variety of wedding fashion and
show that beauty does come in all
shapes and sizes.
The Real People Catwalk will
be part of the Inspiration Theatre
and timings are 12.00noon and
2.00pm both days and on Sunday,
the winners will be announced at
2.30pm. Not to be missed!
This year The Scottish Wedding
Show is in partnership with John
Frox of Falkirk
has relocated
Frox of Falkirk was opened in September
2009 by Fiona Wilson. As a result of
growing business, the need for larger
premises was recognised and as of the 1st
July, 2011 we relocated to 16-18 Newmarket
Street, Falkirk. Fiona says “The business
has gone from strength to strength and
the need for more space was becoming
noticeable. I have received extremely positive
feedback from my many customers in regard
to moving to larger premises. This change
in location will allow me to build on not
only my current stock but will allow me to
stock new labels, giving more choice to the
customer”. “Frox”, stocks an exciting range
of day wear, cruise wear, evening wear, and
is renowned for its exceptional wedding
outfits with matching accessories.
You can view a small sample of Fiona’s
extensive range online at:
froxoffalkirk.co.uk
A professional and friendly approach
awaits you, together with expert advice
by staff, committed to delivering a first
class service. Take a visit to “Frox” and
you will find outfits to suit any budget or
occasion.…………..you won’t regret it!
Frox Of Falkirk
16-18 Newmarket Street Falkirk FK1 1JQ.
Sheila Conn Ladies Fashions
Sheila Conn Ladies Fashions in Biggar is a family business which goes from
strength to strength working along side our shoe shop Sheila Conn Shoes at
116 High Street this enables us to compliment outfits for any occasion with shoes and
bags making your shopping experience so easy.
Our New Season Autumn Winter Collections are now Arriving Daily where
we can offer you a fantastic selection of outfits for every date in your diary this
Autumn Winter from now through to the Festive Season.
Joseph Ribkoff just gets better and better offering Fabulous outfits with Amazing
Style, Comfort and most definately that all important Wow Factor!
Next time you are in Biggar be sure and pay us a visit where Shona, Anne, Elaine
or Karin will be only to pleased to give
you their time and advise you in making
that all important decision on what to
wear, may it be a Mother of The Bride or
Groom or an outfit for smart casual you
can be sure to get it right.
Labels
Condici-Joseph Ribkoff
Gardeur- Libra- Cartise
Lebek-Gelco-Sommermann
Sizes 8 - 22
DONT MISS A VISIT!
Ladies Fashions at
7/9 West End, Biggar
Tel: 01899 220245
Sheila Conn Shoes at
116 High Street,
Biggar
Tel: 01899 220884
www.sheilaconladiesfashions.co.uk
Wedding Gowns
Bridesmaids
Mother of Bride
Voted best
Bridal Retailer
in Scotland
2006 & 2010
By Appointment
23 Ritchie St, West Kilbride, Ayrshire
01294 824838
www.opuscouture.com
Ladies Fashions
7/9 West End, Biggar, ML12 6DA
Tel/Fax: 01899 220245
116 High Street,
Biggar. ML12 6DH
Tel/Fax: 01899 220884
New Autumn Collection
Now Arriving Daily
Sizes 8-22
Libra - Gollehaug - Lebek
- Gelco - Bianca - Emreco
- Joseph Ribkoff - Condici
- Cartise
Don’t miss a visit.
Personal attention
guaranteed.
Shoes By
Dorndoff - H.B. - Gabor Adesso - Van Dal - Capollini
- Riva - Rieker
Posh Wellies now in stock!
www.sheilaconnladiesfashions.co.uk
weddings
The Scottish Wedding Show preview
Macintyre and Son which is title
sponsor of the autumn show.
John Macintyre and Son,
Glasgow’s leading family
jewellers are renowned for
quality, selection and value from
diamonds and fine jewellery to
watches and giftware. Grant
Macintyre, CEO is very excited
about the up and coming show:
“We’re really looking forward
to sponsoring The Scottish
Wedding Show as we have had
a stand there for many years and
have seen the show become
what it is now – the biggest and
best Wedding show in Scotland.
“We have always had great
results from The Scottish
Wedding Show and are really
excited to be unveiling our
new stand and amazing new
designs.”
Enjoy one to one wedding
band consultation with the
experts and the ever popular
complimentary diamond cleaning
service to release the sparkle
in your treasured engagement
ring. Mums, you can have yours
cleaned too!
As well as sponsoring the
show, John Macintyre and Son
are providing the prize of a £1000
gift voucher to the winner of the
Star Prize Draw. To enter, simply
complete the entry form and post
in the entry box at the completion
desk on the main concourse of
the SECC at the entrance to the
show.
www.johnmacintyre.co.uk
Who to watch out
for at the show!
EXHIBITING AT the show
will be Silk Blooms, based in
Bishopbriggs, near Glasgow, who
are specialists in artificial wedding
flowers and modern bridal
bouquets and floral arrangements
– and pride themselves on being
one of the most affordable on the
net, providing the most realistic of
artificial flowers.
A new phenomenon in the
wedding flower industry, silk
flowers provide a whole series or
colours regardless of the time of
the year.
If you can find a bouquet that
you like in a magazine or on the
internet, anywhere, then Silk
Blooms can replicate it for you
or modify and adapt it for you so
that you can have exactly what
you desire. All bouquets can be
hand tied into beautiful, bespoke
arrangements, at no extra cost.
Silk Blooms really do bring
their artificial flowers to life,
creating individual arrangements
to suit each brides personality.
All floral arrangements, whether
bridal, bridesmaids, buttonholes,
corsages, table arrangements, or
general floral arrangements are
stunning in their own right, and
Silk Blooms offers a personal and
friendly service and there is no
chance of your flowers drooping
Choose
silk – for
flowers
that will last
a lifetime
on the big day. These arrangements
can be treasured for years to come.
Mara, the brains behind Silk
Blooms, realises the costs involved
in arranging a wedding can be
quite steep and now offers a
service where you can hire the
more elaborate table arrangements
for the day, saving you a large bill
for flowers that will barely last a
week. Also they offer an interest
free payment service, allowing you
to spread the cost of your wedding
flowers – what a great idea!
Contact:
Silk Blooms,
Bishopbriggs,
Glasgow
Tel: 0845 519 0476
e-mail: sales silkblooms.co.uk
www.silkblooms.co.uk
Enhance your
natural beauty
with a free
makeover
We can all do with a little help
when it comes to make up for
the big day, therefore, House of
Fraser is to host free makeovers
at the Beauty Feature which will
include brands like Clarins, Dior,
Lancome and Apothecary.
Goodie bags will be distributed
to visitors, subject to availability,
and raffle prize draws will take
place on both days. There will
also be professional technicians
on site for those of you who
fancy a spray tan before you
leave the show.
The stand is sure to be busy,
so make sure you set some time
aside to go along and join in.
Wedding show preview continues on 34
weddings
Wedding to organise?
LORRAINE JACK, who will be
at The Scottish Wedding Show,
is a qualified wedding planner,
covering not only Glasgow and
surrounding areas, but also
Scotland, the rest of the United
Kingdom and internationally from
her home at Old Kilpatrick, West
Dunbartonshire.
Lorraine says: “The biggest
misconception about wedding
planners is that they are for
celebrities, the rich and famous even
royalty or that they spend all your
money. But that is not the case,
especially the weddings I organise,
although I wouldn’t say no to any
celebrities, rich and famous or even
royalty, but my prices start from as
little as £40.
“And, as for spending all of a
couple’s money, ‘Weddings By
LJ’, in the majority of cases, can
save couples money by using
my contacts within the wedding
industry.”
Wedding planners can do as
little or as much as the couples
want, making suggestions and
giving advice, but ultimately the final
decision is with the couple.
Bring in a
planner,
simple and
inexpensive
For anyone who has tried to
organise a wedding, it is plainly very
stressful as well as exciting, trying to
plough through all the information,
book everything, juggle work,
finding the time to do it all, what to
do first and how far in advance, you
have to hire a photographer to take
your wedding pictures, a florist to
do your floral arrangements, and a
baker to do your cake, so why not
hire a planner to help you plan one
of the most important days of both
your lives.
Lorraine’s services include
advisory, management and planning
and are as follows:
Advisory services: sourcing
venues, suppliers, everything
advised, and after 21 days I
present them with a report with
my suggestions and the couple
can either go ahead and do it
themselves, or I can follow up.
Management services: budget
management, guest services
Planning services: full, half,
pick ‘n’ mix, last minute planning,
grooms only service.
You can also contact Lorraine
by e-mail at lorraine@weddingsbylj.
co.uk to arrange your free, no
obligation, consultation or to discuss
how ‘Weddings By LJ’ can help you
from engagement to honeymoon
and beyond.
For a detailed description of
Lorraine’s services visit
www.weddingsbylj.co.uk
The celebrated Blairquhan Estate
- live the Scottish Country Estate
Experience.
Placed 14th in the World’s top 50 wedding venues by The Independent.
Key location for the Oscar winning film,The Queen
On Your Wedding Day You Can Feel Like a Princess
Blairquhan offers you exclusive use of this Magnificent Castle
Wedding and Corporate Events
Special discounts through to Easter 2012
For further details see website or contact Estate Office
Corporate - Special rates throughout 2011
Blairquhan for...
•Weddings • Corporate Events • Conferences • Seminars • Family Functions
• Film Locations • Fishing • Shooting • Offroad Driving • Historical tours
Stand out from the crowd
with our beautiful new
collection of wedding,
occasion, day-wear
and outerwear, many of
which are exclusive to
independent boutiques
and not available on the
high street.
Our styles suit the
classically elegant and the
quirky lady, in gorgeous
colours guaranteed to
revamp your autumn
wardrobe. With a wide age
and price range you really
will be spoiled for choice.
And to compliment
your new look we have
handbags and shoes
and boots by Gabor
and Fly of London.
VANITY FAIR BEARSDEN
Gerry Weber, Joseph Ribkoff, Gold, Oscar B,
Libra, Poppy, Emreco, Gelco, Viz a Viz and new
for Autumn James Lakeland
Blairquhan Estate Office, Straiton, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 7LY
Telephone: 01655 770 239 Fax: 01655 770278
E: enquiries@blairquhan.co.uk W: www.blairquhan.co.uk
42 New Kirk Road, Bearsden. G61 3SL
Tel: 0141 942 6346
Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5.30pm
VANITY FAIR HELENSBURGH
Gerry Weber, Sandwich, Olsen, Betty Barclay,
Libra, Masai, Bandolera, Viz a Viz,
Joseph Ribkoff
57 Sinclair Street, Helensburgh. G84 8TG
Tel: 01436 675 661
Open Mon-Sat, 9.30am-5.30pm
www.vanityfairscotland.co.uk
By Karen Carruth
CHOOSING YOUR wedding
venue could be one of the most
important decisions you make
when planning your wedding.
The two things that will decide
where you eventually choose will be
budget and capacity.
There is no point in falling in love
with a country inn, to find that it only
holds 50 people, when your guest
list is more in the region of 500.
Do your homework before you go,
most venues have websites which
will give you all the information you
need to help either include them in
your list, or cross them off.
CLS has put together a top tips
list to keep in mind when choosing
your wedding venue.
1. Budget: Make sure you have a
clear budge in your head before you
go to visit any venue. Make sure
you can afford where you are going
to visit, fees can vary by staggering
amounts.. don’t be disappointed.
2. Availability: Have a date in
mind, but be prepared to accept
alternative dates. Most venues will
require a minimum of six months
advance bookings.
3. Investigate whether you can be
married within the venue (if that is
weddings
Top tips to help
choose your venue
what you wish). If you are being
married elsewhere, take location into
account. If you choose a country
castle in the middle of nowhere,
make sure you have access to get
buses or cars to the venue easily.
4. Accommodation: Will your
guests want to stay the night, will
they be far travelled? Does your
venue have accommodation to suit
your guests needs? If not, are there
local hotels, bed and breakfasts
available, details of which could be
included in the invite to give your
guests an option, without having to
research it themselves?
5. Dining: Will your chosen venue
be able to cope with the numbers
you would like to invite to your
wedding? Pop along and have a
quiet meal beforehand, to try out the
food. Are the staff professional and
polite, it will make a huge difference
if they are, towards making your day
run smoothly.
6. Preparation: How much
preparation will the venue do for
you. If you are hiring in linen, will they
set it up for you? If so, is there a
charge? Decoration, can you leave
some decorations for them to deal
with, or will that be left up to you
also? You really don’t want to be
dashing around setting tables etc on
the morning of your wedding.
7. Entertainment: Bands can take
up a large amount of space, as can
a dance floor, so decide when and
where you want the entertainment
to take place, and check with the
venue that they have the capacity to
deal with what you want.
8. Think smart: Bear your guests
in mind when choosing your venue.
If you are thinking a marquee in a
field, remember that half of your
guests are likely to be wearing high
heeled shoes (which probably cost
a fortune), so walkways, would have
to be provided.
9. Children: If you are inviting
children to your wedding, is your
chosen venue child friendly? As
we all know, kids like nothing
better than running around in
circles at weddings. Will they feel
comfortable, is there a children’s
menu. Some venues like castles
may be quite strict if they have
valuable antiques around, and you
have 20 hyper children running a
marathon around their property.
10. Think with your head, not
your heart. Easier said than
done, I know. But if you can try to
take all things into consideration
before you make the choice, you
won’t regret it. And try to take into
account your husband to be’s
opinion. It’s his big day too you
know... allegedly!
weddings
FIRST TIME exhibitor at The
Scottish Wedding Show, Jolene
Taylor proudly welcomes you to visit
her at her stand, or pop along to her
new bridal studio, Apple Blossom
Time.
The bridal studio is situated in
Huntingtower, on the edge of Perth,
and is the perfect setting in which to
choose your wedding dress, designed
to ensure a calm, private atmosphere
for you and your guests.
Along with your nearest and
dearest, refreshments will be offered
to allow you to relax and browse
through the hand picked collection of
sensational gowns from some of the
finest designers.
Jolene has carefully chosen a range
of wedding gowns from vintage to
modern and glamorous to classic
styles. Apple Blossom Time is the only
stockist in Scotland of designers, Alma
Novia, Aire Barcelona and Luna Novias
by Rosa Clara, Lea-Ann Belter and
bridal coats by Justine Horrocks.
Coming soon to Apple Blossom
Time is a collection of beautiful gowns
by Stephanie Allin, one of the UK’s
foremost award-winning bridal fashion
designers.
As well as the stunning range of
wedding gowns, Apple Blossom Time
boasts a fabulous range of bridesmaid
dresses and accessories, meaning you
need go no where else.
Jolene understands the
importance of brides finding
the dress of their dreams and
so offers a one to one service
in the relaxed and homely
atmosphere of her studio.
And now for the m
choosing w
It can be the most fun part of planning a wedding,
getting all the girls together and shopping for the
dresses. Bride, bridesmaids, and mother of the bride/
groom. Here is a small selection of the huge variety
you will find at The Scottish Wedding Show
Tel: (01738) 638628 or
07818564831(mob)
Email:
Jolene@appleblossomtime.
com
Web: www.
appleblossomtime.com
main event...
weddings
what to wear
WHY LET the bride be the only one to shine
on the day. Mothers of the bride/groom have
a difficult decision to make when it comes to
picking the perfect outfit.
Here we feature a few outfits that make you
stand out from the crowd, fun, flattering and
fashionable. All the dresses above are from Frox
of Falkirk.
Frox of Falkirk provides frocks for weddings,
parties, cruising, or stylish daywear.
With an individual, personal approach, owner,
Fiona Wilson, will advise on everything from
frocks, hats, fascinators, bags, shoes, and
accessories.
Timeless styles to suit all shapes, from sizes
8 - 26, there will be a dress to suit you for
whatever the special occasion, that took you to
Frox of Falkirk.
The staff at the shop have been trained to
provide a first class service, as they realise just
how important mother of the bridge/grooms
outfits are to the mums involved.
See some of their outfits being paraded at
the catwalk show at the Scottish Wedding
Show.
Frox of Falkirk has recently moved to
Newmarket Street, in Falkirk, and can be
contacted on 01324 61350, or have a browse
at www.froxoffalkirk.co.uk for a wide range
of occasion wear.
weddings
Weddington what?
INSPIRED BY Catherine
Middleton’s love of knee-high
boots, the company Weddington
Boots have designed a pearlescent
high-heel wedding wellie, so brides
can enjoy being a princess without
giving up their love of their trusty
wellie, on their special day!
The high quality wellies are
available in two pearlescent cream
styles and come luxuriously
packaged in a branded box with
each boot perfectly preserved in its
own white linen boot bag.
Weddington Boots add a fun,
unique touch to your wedding
day attire and photo album, whilst
keeping your tootsies warm, dry and
comfy at all times.
And because you’ll want to wear
your boots with more than just your
wedding dress, you can customise
them to match your favourite outfits
by changing the removable satin
ribbon, and even match them to
your wedding colour scheme.
A snip, compared to the cost of
wedding shoes at just £39.99.
www.weddingtonboots.com
Tel. 07762 282 333
E. mail@weddingtonboots.com
Yes girls, ‘weddington’ boots. If you country girls just can’t
bear the thought of being a heel-totting princess for the
whole day, then here is a quirky option.
Give the photographer a shock when
you reveal your weddington boots
Catherine style boots above, with the classic option inset
Waterfront Showband
Waterfront are one of the UK’s top live wedding and function
bands. Everyone at Waterfront recognizes the importance of
creating a great night for you and your guests and understand
how difficult it can be to pick your wedding entertainment
with so many good bands to choose from - the market has
never been more competitive. Throughout each year the band
find themselves travelling all over the UK to venues such as
Gleneagles, Cameron House or even a Marquee in the grounds
of your home. Waterfront have built up a good client base
in the rural community and understand the importance and
expectation each event brings, whether it be a family wedding,
a birthday Party, a night to impress clients or just a good knees
up. Waterfront have been performing with great success for
over 12 years and with this length of experience you can be
assured of an enjoyable and memorable night. Please visit www.
waterfrontshowband.com to find out more….
gardens
Lucio fire bowl
from Gardeco
La Hacienda’s
contemporary chimenea
By Karen Carruth
HOLD BACK the autumn’s chilled
night air, and enjoy longer nights in
the garden watching the sunset by
producing your own little heated
haven. Cosying around a source of
heat in the garden is guaranteed to
prolong those summer nights.
What are the options these days?
Well the trusty patio heater has been
around for a long time now, and they
even come with a plug now, rather
than the usual gas bottle. But we are
concentrating on a real fire. Flames
and warmth and maybe even a little
BBQing thrown into the bargain.
Burn off the
autumnal chills
What’s on offer?
Chimi/eneas – there seems to be
some ambiguity about the spelling,
so I will settle for chimeneas, and
apologise to anyone I offend.
Chimeneas have been used for
many years for heating, cooking
and baking. They are so shaped to
burn very effectively and because
the clay body radiates heat it is not
necessary to have a large roaring fire
to fill a patio with radiated warmth.
What to consider when buying
one. Size. They come in all shapes
and sizes, so buy according to the
size of your garden. But make sure
you site it clear of any overhanging
greenery and that you have a firm,
level (and fire-resistant) surface
to put it on. If you’re putting your
chiminea on decking, for instance,
you can buy a floor protector to
prevent sparks damaging the wood.
Gardeco’s Maya fire bowl
Gardeco’s cast iron chimenea offers the option Traditional Mexican chimenea
of bbq-ing
from Gardeco
Cast Iron, steel or clay?
concerned about mobility, a steel
chiminea might be the best option.
Cast iron - sturdy, durable, and
an excellent conductor of heat. Cast
iron chimineas perform excellently
as patio heaters and are great for
Which material should you
choose? Each has their own
advantages and disadvantages,
but do bear in mind that chimineas
can be extremely heavy. If you’re
occasional BBQs too. They will
need to be protected from rust.
Steel - lighter than cast iron, but
still good at radiating heat and are
again good for patio heating and
Continued on next page
gardens
New design from Gardeco,
large air chimeneas, designed
with ladies in mind
Corona Chimenea cast iron BBQ, La Hacienda’s tiled fire bowl, with spark guard
Wonderful waffles, hot and
tasty direct from the chimenea a combination of a chimeneas
and a fire bowl
are delicious
cooking. They tend to be more
modern in design and are less
prone to rust, though they should
still be protected from bad weather.
Clay - the more traditional option,
clay chimineas will soak up the heat
of the fire and radiate it well. They
are made of thick clay and will be
heavy and they should be protected
from bad weather, particularly in
winter. These chimeneas should
always be ‘cured’ before use.
What to burn?
Chimeneas are a great way of
disposing of small quantities of dry
waste, papers etc. Wood is always
a good choice, but make sure the
wood is untreated.
You can choose from sustainable
and recycled fuel, but please check
you’re buying the right sort of fuel
for your chiminea. For example,
charcoal releases too much heat
for clay chimineas, but is perfectly
fine to use in cast iron or steel
chimineas.
Fire bowls
Fire bowls are a variation on the
chimenea theme, recently they
have gained in popularity. They
also come in varying sizes, and
can be make of clay or steel. More
lightweight than the chimeneas,
they can be moved around the
garden, and they often come with
BBQ grill and spark guards.
What to burn? Wood is a carbon
nuetral renewable fuel which is
promoted by the government. It is
recommended you use logs as fuel,
but remember to make sure they are
dry – if your chimenea smokes it’s
because you are burning logs with
a high moisture content – there is
nothing like a face full of smoke to
take the edge of your sparkling wine!
Other popular fuels are Chimlogs
made from compressed sawdust,
a byproduct of wood mills and
firelogs. Firelogs are useful for
people wanting a fast quick lighting
fire; they are made from cellulose
waste and wax, so light easily with
a match to the wrapping paper,
and burn for around two hours. For
bbqing best to use charcoal.
There is a vast range out there,
something to suit everyone’s taste.
Stockists:
Gardeco: www.gardeco.co.uk for
full range of stockist, but Dobbies is
main Scottish retailer.
La Hacienda: www.lahacienda.
co.uk, stockists across the UK,
including www.amazon.co.uk
Chimeneas Shop: www.
chimeneashop.co.uk
Prices start from approx £50.
HUGE SALE
SALE NOW ON INCLUDES BIG BRAND NAMES AND TILES.
THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO BUY
WITH MASSIVE REDUCTIONS.
EDINBURGH
178 Dundee St., Edinburgh, EH11 1DQ.
GLASGOW
A FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1975
60 Washington St., Glasgow, G3 8AZ.
Tel: 0845 607 6944
DUNDEE
www.victorparis.com
92 Albert St., Dundee, DD4 6QH.
FREE PARKING AT ALL SHOWROOMS AND OPEN 7 DAYS
THE NEW AGA TOTAL CONTROL COOKER
PLEASE SCAN THIS QR CODE
INTO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE
With a programmable state-of-the-art touch-screen control
panel and independently controllable hotplates and ovens, the
new AGA Total Control cooker offers complete flexibility for 21st
century living.
UP TO £1,000 OFF ANY AGA HEAT-STORAGE COOKER
WHEN YOU TRADE-IN A CAST IRON COOKER
Terms and conditions apply, ask in-store for details. Up to £1,000 off any AGA heat-storage cooker when you trade in a cast iron
cooker. AGA cooker must be ordered by close of business Friday 23rd December 2011. Valid for use at our AGA Perth shop only.
To qualify simply present this advert in-store or quote code PER11.
agaliving.com
AGA Perth
64-68 Princes St,
Perth PH2 8LJ
01738 443642
NEW TO PERTH – AN AGA COOKER THAT IS ON
WHEN YOU NEED IT AND OFF WHEN YOU DON’T
Some things in life are a given. Chocolate
makes you fat. The good-looking ones let
you down. You can never get a taxi in the
rain. An AGA is always on.
But there is another given
- things change.
While we can’t offer you
calorie-free
chocolate,
an abundance of taxis or
even a perfect romance, we
can offer you something
completely new.
An AGA you can switch on and off as
you please.
Pop in to the AGA showroom in Perth
and you’ll see from the outside, AGA
Total Control looks exactly like a classic
AGA cooker. But underneath its sleek
cast-iron exterior lies a state-of-the-art
touchscreen control panel.
And it’s this new technology that
enables owners to operate the cooker in
a way that suits them. Each of the three
ovens and two hotplates can be operated
independently - or together.
AGA Total Control can, for example,
be fully on during chilly winter evenings,
but on a balmy night in July perhaps
only one hotplate will be used to cook
a light supper. And with rapid heat-up
times, it really is very flexible.
AGA Total Control will appeal to
a whole new generation - those who
are at work all day, but want an AGA
kitchen, and who appreciate both the
design values and great food for which
the AGA is famous.
CAIRNGORM STOVES
www.cairngormstoves.co.uk
Over 80 Woodburning Stoves on display in a suite of showrooms
Riva Studio Freestanding Stove
Morso-Jotul-Stovax-Riva-Aga-Dunsley-Franco Belge
Dovre- Nordpeis-Barbas-Charnwood
PERGE LOG BOILER
Telephone: 01479 873772 / 873493
Strathspey Industrial Estate, Grantown-on-Spey, PH26 3NB
Open Monday-Friday 8.30-1&2-5; Saturday 8.30-12.30
Imagine coming home to a cozy
kitchen safe in the knowledge that
you haven’t been using energy
while you’ve been out at the
office all day. Imagine the most
delicious food, cooked using the
AGA cooker’s unique radiant
heat. Now imagine you actually
switched on the AGA just 45
minutes ago.
Since its invention almost a
century ago, the AGA cooker has
become an icon. Loved by millions
all over the world and revered for
its design, it is more than just a
cooker. It is a way of life. The
result of years of research and
development, AGA Total Control
is the next generation of AGA
cookers. Its innovative features
ensure that it is absolutely relevant to
life in the 21st century. Available in 11
beautiful colours - and with great food
as a given…
For more information please visit the
Aga showroom at 64-68 Princes Street,
Perth PH2 8LJ or telephone 01738 443
642.
“Making Life Warmer”
With ever escalating fuel costs
and the need to care better for
the environment, a woodburning
stove is without doubt a worthwhile
investment.
Cairngorm Stoves in Grantownon-Spey has on display one of the
largest selection of multifuel &
woodburning stoves in Scotland.
Traditional
&
contemporary
styles are on show from the best
manufacturers in the industry
including: Morso, Jotul & Barbas.
The stoves are attractively laid out
in a suite of pleasantly appointed
showrooms with lit models adding
to the general warmth & ambience.
Cairngorm Stoves offer an
installation service & are happy to
advise on the suitability of stoves to
meet customers requirements. Their
team of installers are all HETAS
trained & registered ensuring that
all stoves are fitted safely & in
accordance with current building
regulations.
The Perge log boiler, available
from Cairngorm Stoves, provides
a complete cost effective home heating solution for rural properties as an
alternative to oil, gas or electric central heating. Perge log boilers, made in
France, have been in use in Europe for over 40 years. Their design is robust in
construction, easy to operate and simple to maintain.
Cairngorm Stoves look forward to your visit and assure you of a warm welcome!
Everhot Launch
New Cookers
Two new Everhot
Cookers are
available to order
from September.
Both the cookers
offer a three zone
13A induction hob in
addition to the cast
iron hotplates.
120i
This cooker looks identical externally
to the current 120. The left hand side
provides cast iron boil and simmer
plates above two ovens with maximum
temps of 250C and 200C. The right
hand side has a bottom (3rd) oven with
a maximum temp of 150C. Behind the
top door is a control box. Below the
right hand lid is the 13A three zone
induction hob. Both the bottom ovens
will be constructed in stainless steel.
150i
The basic configuration of this cooker is as the 120i. A single
control box will be located behind the middle door. The top right
hand door will provide a half height, full width plate warming
oven (in stainless steel)
For more information visit Stoveco at Unit 1 Avalon Business Park,
Guardbridge, St Andrews, Fife. KY16 0UB.
Telephone: 01334 848 913, Email: info@thestoveco.com
www.thestoveco.com
Affordable
Country Kiln Stoves
Country Kiln Stoves is a family
business run by Engineers Tom
and Sue Bagan who manufacture
the Country Kiln Woodburning
and Multi fuel Stoves. Tom, Sue
and the Country Kiln Team are
based in Stewarton, Ayrshire,
Scotland and can deliver the
stove of your choice to your door
anywhere in the UK within one
week from order.
Tom and Sue pride themselves on their Country Kiln branded and
trademarked products, their warm service with honest straight forward advice
and their efficient, fully insured, delivery service.
Buying direct from Country Kiln means trade prices direct to our customers
on Country Kiln Multifuel and Woodburning stoves. With over 40% of Scottish
Families now living in fuel poverty Sue and Tom believe their products directly
assist in combating this issue. The cycle of bills can be broken by early investment
in a Country Kiln Stove for either DIY installation or professional fitting by
our Nationwide Fitting Teams. Purchasing early not only means you can take
advantage of current Country Kiln prices but fitting times are much quicker.
Not only will your Country Kiln Stove pay for itself in the first year from
savings made on fuel cost but THE TEMPERATURE YOU EXPERIENCE
IN YOUR HOME WILL IMPROVE.
For houses without chimneys advantage can be taken now of our
Competitively Priced Twin Wall Chimney Systems for either DIY or supply and
fit. Country Kiln has self employed installers in all areas Nationwide who can
also install Country Kiln stoves and flue systems.
This gives you, the customer, the better option to buy new, value appliances and
affordable wood burning stoves, beating the fuel bills in an eco friendly manner.
For further details please contact:
Woodburning Stoves Ltd, Waterlands, Fenwick Road, KA3 5JE.
T: 01560 483 966 www.woodburningstovesltd.com
Stirling Stove Centre
Stoves are available with heat output ranging from 3kw up to
40kw, the firm cater not only for the domestic market – but also for
commercial and industrial settings. And with fairly swift payback
on installations, it’s clear to see why the cost savings are attractive
especially with the latest announcement of a 19% rise in fuel cost.
Ewen Todd of Stirling Stove Centre explains: “As a rough
calculation, it is possible to achieve payback within two years of
installing a wood burning or multi-fuel stove – especially true when
the option of using a stove with a back boiler integrated with the
central heating or hot water supply, leading to considerable cost
savings for the long term.
“The installation of a Woodburning stove is surprisingly
straightforward and can be taken care of within a few days with
minimal fuss.
“An exciting development, allowing us to further penetrate the
marketplace, is our ability to supply stoves with minimal emissions
that can be installed and used in ‘smoke controlled zones’. These are
DEFRA approved. They allow households who previously thought
they couldn’t have a wood burning or multi-fuel stove installed, to
take that step.” He continues
“We place great importance on the fact that we have a base, that
customers can visit the showroom, enjoy a cup of coffee, ask us
questions and even phone us up with any additional queries they
might have on the spec of a product. We welcome that interaction.
When purchasing a stove, the aesthetics as well as the functionality
of the product is equally important. So too is the comfort of the
knowledge that there is an aftercare and warranty agreement in
place with a local supplier that you know by name. When you
are selling high quality products, it makes sense that the service
the customer receives mirrors these standards at all stages of the
buying journey.”
travel
Bed and Fed - ho
accommodation at the cl
By Karen Carruth
HAVE YOU ever given yourself
a little praise and thought, “I am
a great host.” Do friends always
comment on how welcoming you
are when they stay over. If that is
the case, then you would be an
ideal candidate to make money
from renting your spare room.
Bed and Fed is a network of
budget home from home guest
rooms across the UK and Ireland,
easily accessible via a website that
allows booking a trip at the click of
a mouse.
There are two sides to this new
venture, which has been operating
for around 18 months.
First it provides the general
public with a one stop shop for very
reasonable accommodation with
a home cooked supper and light
breakfast, and on the other hand, it
is trying to get the message out to
homeowners that their spare rooms
could be making them a great
income without too much effort.
First, the homeowners side, or
hosts, as Annabella Forbes, the
founder of this service, calls them.
At the moment she has around 300
hosts on her website Bed and Fed,
but the aim is to get to 1000. She
realises that there are plenty of spare
rooms in the country and particularly
in the old farmhouses around the
country which were built for much
larger families, and she wants to
inspire people to make use of them.
Annabella also wants to
encourage existing bed and
breakfast establishments to add
their names to the service.
Annabella says: “Becoming a
Bed and Fed host is easy – earn
money while sharing the comforts
of your home by charging anything
you like per person per night, and
ensuring that your guests are fed
that evening with whatever supper
you had already planned; have a
good night’s sleep and a simple
breakfast of cereal and toast.
“The Bed and Fed scheme is
the easiest way to host – you can
Accommodation is varied, from terraced, High Street properties to country
retreats (below)
make money while showing off
your fabulous hosting skills, and
you don’t even have to provide
the cooked breakfast that B and B
owners dread so much! As hosts,
you are local experts – there is noone better to stay with.”
She continues: “Bed and Fed
provides the toolkit for people to be
their own entrepreneurs, and our
network is demanding even more
hosts, which is fantastic news.”
What is the ‘tool kit’? When you
sign up as a host, which costs a
one off payment of £70 per annum
(at the moment that £70 covers
you for 15 months), it provides a
profile on the website, which you
can embelish with as much, or as
little information and photos as you
desire. It also provides access to a
map where you can mark the exact
location of your property, and also,
should you wish, access to the map
on the soon-to-be-launched, Bed
and Fed app.
This makes you a member of the
Bed and Fed community, which
gives access to blogs and up to
date information which will help your
business thrive.
There are no other payments,
and Bed and Fed do not take any
commission on your bookings.
All bookings are handled directly
between the homeowner and the
customer.
Your business can be as big or
small as you want it to be, and the
beauty of it is, because you are fully
in control of your own bookings you
can rent out your rooms as little or
as often as you want. The whole
ethos of the site is that it is very
relaxed and tends to encourage
friendly people to use the site.
All the details needed to get
started are on the website, so if you
have never rented a room before,
and don’t know where to start, you are
bound to have lots of questions. Do I
have to inform the council, do I need
fire safety checks, insurance etc? All
very valid points worth investigating on
the website before you start.
But you may be surprised to find
that if you are only renting out one
or two rooms the checks will be
minimal, and you are legally entitled
to earn up to £4250 from bed and
breakfast incomes under the rent a
room exemption.
Now, as a guest, you are in a
win-win situation. There are no
single supplements, and this type
of accommodation is ideal for single
travellers, who may welcome both
the company, and also the ‘inside’
knowledge of a local.
All that a guest has to do is to
book directly with the host, then
take along some photographic
identification along with them, for
everyone’s peace of mind.
Hosts are not expected to provide
alcohol with supper, therefore, if
you fancy a tipple, take along your
own bottle. And hurray for common
sense, there are no booking fees.
Annabella’s idea for this site,
which was initially hatched while
studying at Durham university, was
to promote ease, friendliness and
approachability, and that is very
much the tone of the website.
So go ahead, clear out the old
ironing board and laundry baskets
from the spare room and start
earning some cash. It couldn’t be
easier.
travel
ome-from-home
click of a mouse
What the
hosts say:
Ardneidly Steading,
Monymusk, Inverurie,
Aberdeenshire
Mandy Hamilton has been a
host with Bed and Fed since last
year, and is delighted with the
service. “I only rent out two rooms,
so I didn’t have any specific
checks that I had to go through
before I started to rent them out. I
enquired with the fire service, and
they were happy to let me self
assess my property.
“I have had some very nice
people come to stay with me,
and I offer a supper when they
are here. I think Bed and Fed is a
tremendous idea, and feel that if
more people knew that the service
existed it would be extremely
popular. As I only take advance
bookings, and don’t have a B
and B sign outside, then I am
always organised to offer meals to
our guests; there are no surprise
visitors.”
What the
guests say:
Review of Woodside Cottage,
Methven, Perthshire
“I have stayed here twice and it’s
like staying in a little bit of heaven
– even when it rains! Fantastic
accommodation and hostess.
Ideal location for exploring
some of Scotland’s finest places
- Drummond Castle Gardens,
Innerperffray Library, Perth,
Pitlochry... I highly recommend
that you sample Woodside
Cottage and Maggie’s hospitality.
Review of Clunie Cottage,
Braemar, Aberdeenshire
“My daughter and I stayed here
during the February half term, to
take in some glorious skiing at
Glenshee. Living about an hour
away from the slopes, it couldn’t
have been better. We came back
each day to a warm cottage, a
yummy supper and a friendly
home from home atmosphere.
Quite frankly, I couldn’t
recommend it more - too easy for
words, and I shall definitely tell my
friends about Bed and Fed!”
Annabella Forbes, founder of Bed and
Fed, wants to get the message out there
that hotels are not the only option open
to travellers
For more information see:
www.bedandfed.co.uk
www.facebook.com/pages/BedFed
Tel. 00353 851 231 304
travel
By Philippa Stephen
Photographs: Catherine Laurenson
EXQUISITELY TRANQUIL is
just one of the many ways to
describe the view provided by
the Royal Hotel from its rural and
waterside setting, overlooking the
picturesque Cromarty harbour and
lapping up the stunning aspects of
both the Sutherland mountains and
the Cromarty Firth.
Poised on the tip of the Black Isle,
the building itself boasts a fabulous
history, steeped with original tales
of local fishery, farming and wartime Navy life – but most recently
the ‘Royal’ as a hotel, turned to
the hands of farmer’s daughter
and Clydesdale horse breeder
Jenny Henderson, of Udale Farm,
Poyntzfield, near Dingwall, who has
been steadily rejuvenating the hotel,
its bar, and restaurant, since she
took over its reins 18 months ago.
A mere 40 minute drive north
of Inverness, Cromarty offers a
wealth of rural attractions – not
least its sandy beaches and the
ample opportunity to see Bottlenose
Dolphins swimming within the firth,
but also its unusual architecture,
beautiful countryside, wildlife,
and bird reserves of international
importance.
The town has long been
dependant upon both its proximity
to the sea and to its fertile farm lands
and now, Jenny has made sure
that both have been emphasised
Breathing new
Cromarty’s Roy
Farmer’s daughter Jenny Henderson at the helm of the Royal Hotel
at the forefront of the menu for
diners at the Royal, where the best
of local produce is cooked up for
sustenance for all who are either
lodging in the hotel, or simply eating
within its bar or restaurant.
The dining room has also the
latest of the rooms in the hotel to
benefit from Jenny’s renovative
touch, transforming the room into a
sumptuously warm and welcoming
setting where you can take in the
sea views and relax whilst watching
fishing boats unload at the pier or
the yachts at anchor in the bay.
Seafood is, therefore, a naturally
dominant speciality at the Royal
throughout the summer months
– with fresh catches landed daily in
the harbour and brought straight
from boat to kitchen.
Here, it is head chef Raymond
Mackenzie that takes the helm,
incorporating the fresh produce into
w life into
yal Hotel
delicious meals for the menu.
“We use a lot of seafood and
that’s all landed fresh at the harbour
in front of the hotel,” explained
Jenny. “We serve local Cromarty
langoustine, mackerel, crab and
lobster, and Dornoch mussels when
each is in season.”
But the rich diversity of other
local produce, which is farmed
throughout the Black Isle, has
meant that when fulfilling her aim
to source as much produce for the
Royal’s kitchen from local farmers
and producers as possible, Jenny is
spoilt for choice.
Of course, being a farmer’s
daughter, she doesn’t have to be
sold on the concept of providing
local produce.
Udale, the farm run by Jenny’s
travel
father John, and brother Tom, which
lies only five miles from the hotel,
provides all the beef on the menu
at the Royal, explained Jenny,
with the best cuts of beef taken
predominantly from Limousin cross
cattle.
“Alongside Udale steaks and
fillets, we also source all our lamb,
chicken, pork, duck, vegetables and
eggs locally, and our bread is from
the local bakery. The restaurant at
the Royal is proving a brilliant way
to promote how great local produce
tastes and it not only cuts down on
food miles, but it also importantly
keeps cash flowing within the local
rural economy.
“Our butcher, Fraser Brothers,
Shhh...
Luxury rooms are a great new feature of the hotel
Welcome to Cambus O’May Hotel...
Special Offer -
The
new
quality
magazine
for women,
every
Thursday
Don’t tell the men
A broader view
From end of October - March
Three night stay db&b £180pp,
based on two people sharing
In superb location four miles east of the picturesque
village of Ballater situated in the Cairngorms National
Park, set in sixteen acres of attractive wooded
grounds overlooking the River Dee.
This family-run hotel offers a unique opportunity to
sample traditional Scottish hospitality in a country
house setting.
Excellent food, log fires and all modern amenities.
Cambus O’May Hotel,
Ballater, Aberdeenshire.
Tel/Fax: 013397 55428
Email: mckechnie@cambusomay.freeserve.co.uk
travel
Breathing new life into
Cromarty’s Royal Hotel
at Dingwall, also makes all its sausages, haggis and Scottish
championship winning black pudding, with local ingredients,”
she added.
Jenny also uses a similar local sourcing philosophy at her
nearby seasonal tearoom, The Pantry, which she has owned
and run in the town since 2003.
But whilst organising the provision of food might not be a new
concept to Jenny, running a hotel certainly has been.
Nonetheless, she has taken to the role with great gusto – and
yet, throughout her extensive renovations to the hotel, she has
maintained considerable sympathy for the traditional routes of
the Royal within the local community.
The Royal had been on the market for around 18 months
before Jenny took the plunge to buy the business, she
explained. “Although I had thought about the fact that it was for
sale, I didn’t properly consider it until someone that I know made
me realise that it could be something that I could really enjoy and
also be very good at. Sometimes it just takes encouragement
from someone ever so slightly removed from your day to day life
to make you take a thought or idea seriously.
“The idea was really cemented into my head at the Moy
Game Fair shortly after the Black Isle Show in 2009. I finally
got my business plans for the hotel drawn up and submitted in
November that year and after my offer was accepted in January
last year, I eventually got the keys in February,” said Jenny.
“But whilst I knew there were renovations that needed to
be carried out, the hotel and its bar
and restaurant have been a part of
the local community for so many
Quality fresh, local, food
features highly on the list
of attractions at the hotel
ISLE OF ISLAY
Port Askaig Hotel
A picturesque, family run Highland Inn on the shores of
the Sound of Islay, overlooking the pier which offers
easy access to Jura, Colonsay and the mainland.
The hotel has been in family ownership for 50 years.
WEEKEND OFFER
(must include Saturday) - 2/3/4 nights B&B + 2 COURSE EVENING MEAL
- In standard room - £55pppn
in Superior Seaview room £65pppn - Available from 1st November to end of March
excluding Bank Holidays - Quote Ref MAS5
ALL DAY MEAL & BAR SERVICE • LOCAL & HOME GARDEN PRODUCE
• FULL CENTRAL HEATING • AMPLE PARKING
• ALL BEDROOMS ON FIRST FLOOR • RESIDENTS’LOUNGE
All rooms en-suite. Several completely refurbished.
Restaurant and bar menus feature Traditional Dishes using the best of local produce.
Our chef specialises in freshly prepared seafood dishes.
Enjoy an Islay Malt in The Old Port Bar which dates from the 1600’s. Popular with locals, live
music features here most weekends.
Quieter moments can be had in the Cosy Snug Bar or spacious Residents Lounge
overlooking the harbour.
Single from £45 B&B
:
Double from £90
B&B
The Port Askaig Hotel, Port Askaig, Islay, PA46 7RB - Tel: +44 (0)1496 840245
e-mail: hotel@portaskaig.co.uk www.portaskaig.co.uk
Island Hospitality
at the Gateway Port
Islay Queen of the Hebrides
- so deserved of the title
with it’s gentle landscape so
lush and green bordered by
miles of beautiful beaches
on which to relax or explore.
A paradise for
nature lovers, Islay
also welcomes
the thousands of
visitors every year
who come to visit
the eight world
famous distilleries
and to sample the
distinctive malts
renowned the world
over.
History abounds here
from Iron Age brochs
to Clan battle sites and
fascinating Finlaggan
ancient seat of MacDonalds
Lords of the Isles. Port
Askaig Hotel the oldest
licensed premises on Islay
dating from the 16th century
- now with 10 en-suite
bedrooms, two bars and the
Starboard Restaurant which
features much from the land
of Islay not forgetting the
hotel garden but especially
local seafood straight from
the harbour - Port Askaig
an ideal base to explore the
delights of Islay and the
neighbouring isles of Jura
and Colonsay with ferries
leaving from outside the
door. Live music features
most weekends and you
can be sure of a friendly
welcome from Marion and
Iain the resident proprietors
and their staff.
DON’T MISS THE NEXT ISSUE
of
ON SALE NOVEMBER 26th
AVAILABLE IN
and from selected independent newsagents,
or by subscription.
To advertise in the next issue,
contact Louise Jane Mcdonald
on 0141 302 7368
or louisejane.mcdonald@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
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receiving FREE digital editions of the magazine,
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and call the subscriptions hotline on 0141 302 7718 or email cls.subs@countrylifestylescotland.co.uk
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travel
Breathing new life into Cromarty’s Royal Hotel
generations that I had to make sure
that any improvements appealed to
both the regulars as well as to any
new customers.
“In a rural area, you need to make
sure that it appeals to people of
every age! The public bar is also truly
multi-functional and we even sell all
the local and national newspapers
from here daily.
“The Royal’s wine cellar is also
stocked with an excellent range of
both new and old world wines at
affordable prices and pre-dinner
drinks or after dinner coffee can
be served in front of a roaring log
fire in the comfortable surrounding
of our sitting room,” added Jenny.
And being in the heart of the
Highlands, you can also choose
from the hotel’s extensive selection
of malt and blended whiskies.
“We have one of the largest
selection of malt whiskies available
in the Highlands – well in excess
of 200! We have at least one malt
from every producing distillery in
Scotland plus many from dormant
and closed distilleries,” explained
Jenny.
Initial renovations began with
the lounge bar and downstairs
toilets, which gained a new porch
entrance with double oak doors,
a new bar counter and facade,
new tables and chairs, plastering
and carpets, and certainly made
the best from the warmth of the
lounge’s open log fire.
All the work was carried
out utilising the skills of local
tradesmen whenever and where
ever possible.
From there, Jenny turned
her attention to the nine hotel
bedrooms and bathrooms,
developing one room quickly into
a superior room – which offers
not only a luxurious king size bed
with sea views, but also fitting
out its en-suite with a palatial
free standing double ended
bath, which also itself takes in
the expansive views over the
Cromarty Firth to provide guests
with the ultimate relaxation and the
opportunity to watch the sun set
over the water.
All of the bedrooms – of which
two can easily accommodate
families, a further two are twins
and the remaining five are doubles
– are now elegantly decorated by
Sea views, relaxed surroundings and magnificent food – can’t ask for more
Jenny’s fantastic touches to offer
individual but fresh, warm and
calming decoration and of course,
come inclusive of a hearty ‘Royal’
Scottish breakfast, allowing you
to experience some of the finest
home cooking to be found in the
Highlands.
Jenny’s most recent touch
has created a second superior
room, offering a luxurious fourposter double bed, once again
making the most of the aspect
over the harbour with double
windows which draw the firth
and Sutherland mountains into
the heart of the room. It also now
boasts its own unique black and
white styled en-suite bathroom.
But whether you are just
passing through the area or are
looking for somewhere peaceful
and relaxing to stop and stay,
Jenny really has transformed the
Royal into a unique destination
with a warm and relaxing Scottish
country house atmosphere and of
course, with its beautiful rooms,
delicious fresh and local cuisine
and perfect views, if you do not
have an excuse to visit, perhaps it
is time to find one!
■ Bed and breakfast prices
start at £65 per night, including
a full Scottish breakfast, with
check-in from 2pm and departure
by 11am.
Food is served in the dining
room, lounge bar or conservatory,
with breakfast between 8am and
9.30am, lunch from 12.00noon to
2.30pm (or 3pm weekends) and
dinner from 5.30pm until 8.30pm
(or 9.00pm weekends).
Full details can be found at www.
royalhotel-cromarty.co.uk or by
telephoning 01381 600217
Fife Country launches
Annual Autumn Catalogue
This month sees the launch of the
annual Fife Country autumn catalogue,
featuring country clothing and footwear
products carefully selected over the
summer months. Fife Country has a
long association with country people,
and understands the importance
of value for money, even in high
performance clothing and footwear.
Style is important, but so is offering
products which keep customers warm,
dry and comfortable, and which stand
the test of time, so hardwearing, durable
fabrics are also an essential part of every
product.
For 2011/12, there are new country
checked shirts, Scottish knitwear,
tweeds and fleeces, all under the Hoggs
label, plus casual moleskin jackets and
trousers from Fife Country themselves.
There are also the best from other
leading and innovative brands such
as Pinewood, Seeland, Viyella, Harris
Tweed, Gurteen, Seasalt and Musto.
Not all of these are household names,
but Fife Country always searches far
and wide to find clothing and footwear
which it thinks offers the best value for
its customers, whilst meeting all the
important quality standards required.
Fife Country is of course long
renowned for footwear, and the full
Hoggs footwear range is also available,
whether it be work and safety footwear,
or waterproof leisure boots, as well
as the best from Timberland, Camel
Active, Mephisto, Sebago and Meindl.
For autumn 2011, there are extended
ranges in both waterproof footwear and
comfort shoes with comfort insoles.
Nowadays Fife Country offers a
genuinely head-to-toe range of products,
with luggage, socks, hats & caps and
waterproofs all covered. This means that
a Fife Country customer can now shop
at Fife Country for all of his country
clothing and footwear needs, and be
happy in the knowledge that he is ready
for the worst that the Scottish weather
has to offer.
As well as its catalogue and website
(www.fifecountry.co.uk), Fife Country
now has shops in both Strathmiglo, Fife
and at 5 Church St, Inverness. These
shops stock additional exciting, seasonal
ranges, particularly for women, from
stylish brands such as Joules, Musto,
Weirdfish and Seasalt, who all offer
exciting seasonal ranges.
For a copy of your free 70 page Fife
Country colour catalogue, you can
telephone 0845 607 6632, or visit www.
fifecountry.co.uk, where you can also see
the full range, as well as place your order
if you so wish.
Having had the pleasure of meeting
many of their customers through the
summer months, at the Royal Highland
Show, Scottish Game Fair, Highland
Game Fair at Moy, Turriff Show, Black
Isle Show and CLA Game Fair at
Blenheim, Fife Country look forward
to welcoming them back to their stores
through the autumn and winter months.
FINE CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
since 1888
Autumn 2011 Ranges now Instore and Online
Leading stockist of Hoggs of Fife, as well as many other
leading names, including Musto, Seeland, Viyella,
Harris Tweed, Loake, Timberland, Sebago & Joules.
Visit our fully shoppable website,
or phone (0845 607 6632)
for one of our free colour catalogues.
FEATURED PRODUCTS:
Hoggs Strathmoor Waterproof Jacket (no. 2148) £99
Hoggs Moleskin Trousers (no. 2151) £49.95
Hoggs Cotton Twill Shirt (no. 0803) £25
Hoggs Field Pro Neoprene Wellington (no. 0267) £69
CALL 0845 607 6632 TO ORDER,
QUOTING 11ASF2
Shops at:
55 High Street, Strathmiglo, Fife.
5 Church Street, Inverness.
www.fifecountry.co.uk

Issue 3 - Country Lifestyle Scotland

Transcription

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