StrathdearnNewsletterAugust 2008. Vol.8 Issue 3.

THANK YOU

I would like to thank most sincerely all those who con-

tributed so generously to my retirement presentation

and attended a wonderful farewell party in the Village

Hall on the 7th June 2008. Special thanks to the sup-

port group of ladies for the wonderful tea, home bak-

ing, and all the surprises they kept so secret from me! I

must also thank our local bard, Donald Macaskill, for

presenting me with a poem which he wrote about me

and the Shop, and Vivian for her support to me at all

times.

I will miss you all, but here’s a big thank you for mak-

ing it such a memorable and happy day with my old

and new friends. So now I give up my title as Jean the

Shop…. Bye!

Jean Mackay

Bridgend, Tomatin

MILLBURN ACADEMY PRIZE-GIVING

Congratulations to all pupils from Tomatin and Moy

who gained certificates at the prize-giving:

Year 1: Fraser Sutherland - merits in French, English,

History, R.E. and Science.

Georgie Bell – perfect attendance award.

Calum Carson – merits in French and P.E.

Donal Bryden – merit in Craft and Design.

Year 2: Hamish Fuller – merit in P.E.

Robbie Taylor-Dempster – award for Gaelic.

Year 3: Ruaridh MacDonald – perfect attendance

award.

Year 4: Thomas MacQueen – merits in Graphic Com-

munication & Technological

Studies.

Year 5: Kerry Paton – principal prizewinner in Home

Economics.

Special congratulations to Thomas who also gained the

MacAskill Bowl for a wonderful piece of carpentry.

'

Team from Tomatin Distillery enter The Quiz Show

Post Code Challenge

Four teams from different parts of the country, includ-

ing a team from Tomatin Distillery, entered the Post

Code Challenge on 26th March. Although putting on a

good performance, they were pipped at the post, and

came in second. The team consisted of captain Cather-

ine MacLellan, Rose and Bruce Bartlett, Alan Watson,

Douglas Campbell and Charlie Edward. On Monday

7th July they had their TV debut, when many locals

tuned into see the, now famous, 6 stars in the mak-

ing!!!

Cleaner required for Strathdearn Primary

school.

12.5 hours a week @ £5.52per hour.

For more information please call.

Fiona Macneil on – 07920 298689.

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING.

Friday 26th September

Strathdearn Hall

10.30 - 11.30 am

ART IN STRATHDEARN

Our Annual Exhibition will be held in the Strathdearn

Hall on Friday August 22nd (10am-5pm) and Saturday

August 23rd (10am-4pm). We look forward to seeing

you there!

We have been fortunate once again in having tuition

from Esther Armstrong (pastels) and also Johnathan

Wheeler (watercolours). These have been really inspir-

ing artists and so encouraging to work with. We en-

joyed a trip to Findhorn to visit Johnathan's studio.

Thank you to all the kind people who provided trans-

port!

Our next session starts on Thurs 28th August (1.30pm-

3.30pm) New members will be most welcome orjust

drop in and have a go! Art is challenging but lots of

fun!

Betty Watson (president)

POST OFFICE

At the TOMATIN INNEvery Thursday 11.30am – 1.30pm

Coffee MorningAt the Tomatin Inn

Every Thursday 11am – 12 noon

CHEAPER OIL

At this time of continually rising fuel costs it is always

useful to find a way of getting a few pence per litre off

the cost of our heating kerosene. Bob picked up a tip

from watching Working Lunch on BBC2 recently.

YOBCO – Yelvertoft Oil buying Consortium was set up

a while ago by the community in Yelvertoft to give

them access to bulk buying discounts from the major oil

suppliers. Membership has spiralled and it’s now open

to anyone to join. The more people in an area who buy

their heating kerosene through YOBCO the bigger the

discount they are able to negotiate. We tried out the

system at the beginning of June and obtained a 7p per

litre cheaper price than another village resident who

ordered oil at about the same time – a saving of £133

before VAT on our order of 1900 litres.

We ordered our oil online through www.yobco.co.uk

and our delivery came within a week from Highland

Fuels. All you have to do is access the website, register

as a member, place your order and provide a

credit/debit card to make payment YOBCO do the rest.

For those in the community who prefer you can also

contact them by phone – 01788 824236.

We were very happy with the service although the in-

voice was a while coming and the payment wasn’t tak-

en immediately but I think that was a one-off. The

important thing to us was that the oil came when they

said it would and the price was a good few pennies

cheaper than if we had ordered direct from Highland

fuels. REMEMBER, THE MORE OF THE COM-

MUNITY WHO SIGN UP TO USE THIS SERVICE

THE BIGGER THE DISCOUNT.

Lesley Smithers

Glenan Lodge Guest House

2

CONGRATULATIONS!

Joanne Noble received a 1st class Honours

Degree in 3DD (Three Dimensional Design), specialis-

ing in jewellery, on the 13th June 2008 at Robert Gor-

don University, Grays School of Art.

Joanne also won:

…. The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths’ young

designer and silversmith of the year 2008;

….Silver Bullion Grant - which funded the design for

3 solid silver interlocking bowls;

….Precious Metal Bursary Award - which funded the

design of a solid silver and 18ct gold neck piece;

….a Certificate for her design for a jug.

Joanne graduated on the 18th July 2008 in Aberdeen.

To view her jewellery, visit www.joannenoble.com

* * * * * * *

* *

Johann Roden graduated from Glasgow Caledoni-

an University on 3rd July with a BA (Hons) in Politics

with Sociology (First Class) and intends to study for a

MSc in Refugee and Migration Studies at Strathclyde

University.

* * * * * * * *

*

Nick Crummy graduated in June with an HND

Nautical Science from Glasgow College of Nautical

Studies and is now a Third Officer (Deck) with P & O

Cruise ships. He also won the Marine Society Officer

of the Watch NVQ/SVQ Prize for his Portfolio over

the 3 years sea experience. Nick will be collecting his

award in October in London at the Annual Court of

the Marine Society. We wish him well in his career at

sea.

STRATHDEARN HOSPICE FUNDRAISING

GROUP

Would like to THANK everyone who helped and at-

tended the Strawberry Tea in aid of the above charity.

A good time was had by all and we managed to raise

the grand sum of £306 on the day and a further £60with sales of the Sunflowers, we would like to thank

Tomatin Shop and the Tomatin Distillery for selling

some of these for us.

Betty’s Recipes

TIME FOR TEA!

EARL GREY FRUIT CAKE

6 Earl Grey teabags

12oz mixed fruit

8oz soft brown sugar

10oz selfraising flour

5oz butter, melted

1 egg

Put teabags in bowl and cover with half pint boiling

water.

Add fruit and leave several hours or overnight.

Remove bags and stir in flour, butter and egg.

Spoon into lined cake tin and level surface.

Bake 150c for about 2 hrs.

SHORTBREAD

5oz butter

5oz plain flour

2oz cornflour

2oz icing sugar

Knead all ingredients together.

Form into rounds or fingers.

Bake at 150c for 50 mins.

Are you struggling with the bureaucracy of running

voluntary group or organisation?

Are you struggling to find suitable sources of fund-

ing?

Not sure where to go next?

The Council for Voluntary Services in Inverness can

help you!

CVS Inverness is a charitable organisation which acts

as both an advice centre for the local voluntary sector

and a voice for the sector. We also help voluntary or-

ganisations during the stage of setting-up, writing a con-

stitution and helping to find suitable sources of funding.

We have now set up a number of surgeries throughout

the Inverness-shire area, where you can come along

and chat to us about anything which you struggle with

or want advice on within the voluntary sector. From a

local football team to a community book group we can

help you; even if you are only in the planning stages.

We will be holding a surgery at Strathdearn Hall, To-

matin on Thursday 28th August 2008 from 10:00 to

12:00, and there is no need to make an appointment -

just come along on the day.

Alternatively please contact us and we can arrange a

meeting at a time and date to suit you.

www.cvsinverness.org.uk (01463) 714 303

anne@cvsinverness.org.uk

3

Date for your Diary

A CEILIDH ..................................

At the Tomatin Inn on Saturday 15th November at 7pm

To raise funds for Meallmore Lodge Resident Funds.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

SINGING

DANCING

PIPES

So dust off your dancing shoes and join us.

Tickets available nearer the time from Bruce Harman.

4

THE BROWNE MEMORIAL

This fine stone monument is situated at the southern end of the Raigbeg bridge, facing the river, on the Soilsean

to Balvraid roadside. It is unadorned apart from the inscription which reads as follows:

This memorial was erected

by people in Strathdearn and Inverness

and by shooting friends

to the memory of

THE REV. EDWIN LEECE BROWNE MA,

St Andrews School, Eastbourne,

for 20 years shooting tenant of

Glenkirk, Tomatin, during which

time by his generous and kindly

manner in doing good he found

great happiness and was loved by all.

1856 – 1933

Mr Browne stayed at Glenkirk, the house between Glenan Lodge and Cottage of Free (now called the Old Manse).

I do not remember him but my mother knew him, and spoke of his sportsmanship and popularity over the many

years he came to Tomatin. Instead of working Labradors or spaniels to seek and retrieve, he had poodles which

were very effective. They were large chocolate coloured ones, with natural coats and enjoyed swimming.

I found a reference dated 1893 for the building of kennels for the dogs at the Freeburn Hotel, cost £9.16s.6d. The

corrugated iron for the roof had to come by wagon from Inverness, as the railway was not completed, hence the

additional expense. Mr Browne had the kennels creosoted and repainted in 1921 for £5.4s.2d – labour charge by

the carpenter was 1/- per hour. I wonder if there is an old Game Book somewhere with a photo of the Reverend

and the dogs he enjoyed so much.

Ann Glynne-Percy

August 2008

ART IN STRATHDEARN

invite you to their annual

ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION

in the Strathdearn Hall, Tomatin

Friday August 22nd 10am – 5pm

Saturday August 23rd 10am – 4pm

Refreshments available

TOMATIN COUNTRY INN

We would like to announce that we wish to welcome every-

one from the area to visit us. We have opened up the restau-

rant, and have a lounge area in the dining room area, plus

the restaurant door is now open during the hours of food

service, which means anyone wishing to visit us can do so

without walking through the lounge bar area.

We would like to apologise for the lack of information cur-

rently contained on our website - this is a work in progress

and should be back up soon with all of our information and

events diary as before.

The services we currently offer are:

We now serve breakfast seven days a week between 8am

and 12noon and our extensive restaurant and bar menu is

now available from 12noon to 9pm - again seven days a

week.

We serve Sunday roasts every Sunday for just £7.95 with a

different choice of meat each and every week; we have spe-

cials boards up most days, and our food is still fresh and rea-

sonably priced.

We have now opened a local newsagents within the

grounds of our car park, which stocks newspapers, maga-

zines, bread, milk, cakes, chilled foods and general house-

hold essentials; we can take regular standing orders and will

order in anything that we do not have but is requested.

We host the local post office every Thursday between

11am and 1:30pm and this is situated at our restaurant en-

trance. Our post office can do all the things you would be

able to do at any post office.

Coffee mornings are still held by us every Thursday morn-

ing between 11am and 12noon. These coffee mornings are

free to attend, with free coffee or tea free top ups and free

cakes. We do not charge for the coffee or the cake, but do

ask for a £1.00 donation to the coffee club tin. This money

is saved up and kept safe - when it has accumulated, all the

members of the coffee club can decide how they wish to

spend it.

We can provide a venue for any of your function needs,

and can take bookings for any or all of your celebrations.

Our current up and coming events diary is-

Friday Aug 15th Jock in the box

Sat Aug 23rd Crossover

Sat 20th Sept Celtic Horizons

Sat 27th Sept Jock in the Box

Friday 31st Oct Halloween Party with fancy dress and

prizes

Sat 8th Nov Fireworks party with display toffee ap-

ples and free entry to all

Please see the next newsletter for information on events

over the Christmas period: these events will include Live

music, Parties, Kids Christmas Party with visits from Santa

Clause and a Hogmanay Special. We are now taking

bookings for Christmas and can provide our Christmas

Menu upon request. We will be taking bookings for and in-

cluding December and January and will be having a Christ-

mas Day sitting.

Tomatin Country Inn

tel 01808 511291, www.tomatininn.co.uk , email

info@tomatininn.co.uk

Their Past Your Future

A competition for 14 - 16 year olds.

To commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Armistice,

the Imperial War Museum in association with the Com-

monwealth War Graves Commission, is looking for 24

young people from across the UK, to travel on an all

expenses paid visit to France and Belgium for Remem-

brance Day, from 7-12 November 2008.

It is a 2 question competition which can be answered in

writing, film, photograph or artwork format.

Strathdearn Youth Group has entry forms and more

details or google tpyf.

5

GLENKIRK WINDFARMEurus Energy UK Ltd, the developer planning to

build the 31 turbine windfarm on the hills above

Glenkirk (4 miles north-east of Tomatin village) has

submitted to Scottish Ministers additional informa-

tion in the form of an addendum, including Addition-

al Ecological Surveys and Assessment to the

Glenkirk Windfarm Environmental Assessment. Cop-

ies of the addendum together with the Environmental

Statement and associated planning application ex-

plaining the company’s proposals in more detail are

available in the Tomatin Country Shop, Carrbridge

Post Office and Highland Council Planning and De-

velopment Service Office, Church Street Inverness.

Representations should be made to the Scottish Gov-

ernment Energy Consents Unit by 2 September 2008

by e-mail: energyconsents@scotland.gov.uk or post:

Energy Consents Unit, 2nd floor Meridian Court, 5

Cadogan Street, Glasgow G2 6AT.

Eurus Energy has been required to produce this sec-

ond addendum for the proposed windfarm because of

serious omissions in its earlier submission to Energy

Consents which were identified by the public and

upheld by the Energy Consents Unit.

Further information available from Pat Wells tel

01808 511351

JUNIPER HILL LOW COST HOUSING

As most readers will know this application for the provision of the much needed 10 low cost houses and the adja-

cent 6 houses has been submitted to planning as a detailed planning application. A Public Consultation was held

before submission which enabled members of the public to attend and discuss the scheme and this provided some

very valuable comments/ suggestions which we were pleased to incorporate into the final submission.

At the recent Community Council meeting Duncan Bryden gave a detailed outline of the proposed development

and with 31 members of the public present the discussion was lively. It was however very pleasing that only 6 peo-

ple raised objections. Since the application has been submitted there have been very few objections submitted to

planning and this clearly shows that whereas there were 99 objectors at the public ballot last year that there is much

greater support now. This we believe has been because we have taken into account most of the comments made,

allaying most of the concerns of the original objectors

It is important to emphasise that Distillery Wood is a Commercial Forest but we are more than happy to encourage

public access. The core paths provision is a very large part of this proposed development, replacing the existing

limited path network. We have developed a three route system which will allow people of all abilities the benefit

of a series of walks and picnic areas with viewpoints in the forest. Previously this was not possible as the only

routes were the forest roads. Discussions have been held with the Core Paths team at Highland Region as well as

local people to ensure we have come up with the best possible way to maximise the usage and improve parking for

the many local people who we want to enjoy the forest.

The new access road with pavement will be of significant benefit as this will be adopted by Highland Council and

that will provide a safe route to and from the houses as well as providing the safety of a proper pavement. The area

is very prone to dog fouling which is becoming an increasing health and safety problem. With an adopted access

road that will eliminate that as owners will need to remove the droppings or use the provided waste receptacles.

As part of the felling which took place this year we have developed a new planting plan which will re stock the for-

est with Sitka Spruce and the additional planting of broadleaves in the lower slopes will significantly improve the

visual aspect of that area, encouraging and maintaining the local wildlife habitat. Preparation works for planting

are planned for the end of this year with planting scheduled for spring 2009 in line with forestry guidelines,

We look forward to moving this project forward and being able to provide the 10 low cost houses to the local com-

munity in a unique and novel approach, and we would emphasise our commitment to work with the Housing au-

thorities to develop a mechanism to provide low cost housing for the local community.

We understand that with any development there will be objectors and we are endeavouring to take their comments

into account. However it would be a great pity if that very small number of homeowners who already have houses

would stop others getting their foot on the housing ladder.

George Macleod

6

TOMATIN & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB FLOWER SHOW

Remember the 2008 Flower Show is on Saturday 6th September; entries taken from 10:00am to 12 noon.

As always our event is more than just about flowers and vegetables. For grown ups there are also classes for art,

photography, baking and produce, handicrafts and floral art. We expect the children’s sections to be as hotly con-

tested as ever. How are those sweet peppers for the Challenge growing?

Schedules are available from the shop if you haven’t saved the May Newsletter or from Sheila Don (511729).

As ever the Halls will be open to the public at 2:30 PM for viewing the entries, buying tickets for the fantastic raf-

fle and enjoying some refreshments.

The Flower Show always seems to be the one big event that brings all of Strathdearn, young and old, together.

Let’s make it bigger and better still this year!

Church of ScotlandParish of Moy, Dalarossie and Tomatin

Minister: Rev R F Campbell, Daviot Manse, Daviot. Tel: 01463 772242www.strathsnairnanddearn.co.uk

Sunday Club:welcomes primary-school aged children every Sunday morning during term-time in the Strathdearn Hall at 10.30 am (except for the second Sunday of the month when there is a Family Service). Furtherinformation Mrs Sandra Edward 511237.The Guild:Meets on the second Wednesday each month between September and April, at 7.30 pm in Tomatin Church (please check notice boards for venues in November and December). New Members welcome. Our Autumn Speakers are:10th September: Rev A S Younger Talk on the Psalms8th October: Mrs E MacDonald Alzheimer’s (Scotland)All welcome. Further information Mrs Sheila Don 511729.Breakfast Club:Join us for freshly brewed coffee, bacon rolls and croissants, (as well as healthy options) followed by discussion of a Bible passage from Matthew's Gospel, and a time of singing and prayer. Come to the Strathdearn Hall for all, or some of the morning (9.30am for Breakfast/10.30am for the Bible passage/11.30am for singing and prayer). We will be starting again in September, meeting on the lasttwo Mondays of each month. Further information Mrs Vivian Roden 511355.SUNDAY SERVICES – all at 10.30 am, unless stated otherwise.AUGUST: SEPTEMBER:10th: Tomatin Church 7th : Dalarossie Church17th: Dalarossie Church (Sacrament of Holy Communion)24th: Moy Church 14th: Family Service in the Strathdearn Hall.31st: Tomatin Church 21st : Dalarossie Church

28th: Moy Church.OCTOBER: NOVEMBER:5th: Dalarossie Church 2nd: Dalarossie Church

(Family Harvest 9th Remembrance Sunday FamilyThanksgiving Service – Service in the Strathdearn HallDonations of tinned at 10.30 am.And dried goods for Service of Remembrance The Highland Food at the Strathdearn War Memorial- Bank welcome). at 3 pm.and dried goods for the SUNDAY CLUB OUTING: SundayHighland Food Bank 24th August at Landmark. Everyonewelcomed.) welcome. Meet at the Strathdearn Hall

12th: Tomatin Church at 10.30 am.19th: Dalarossie Church GIFT DAY: Saturday 20th September26th: Moy Church 2 – 4 pm in the Strathdearn Hall.

(Sacrament of Holy Communion)All are most welcome to join in any or all of our Services or Activities

MODERN LOVE

Such alluring flawless beauty –

I found heaven’s door ajar.

But we never reached the promised land

When she scratched my brand new car!

Donald MacAskill

7

Strathdearn Youth Group News

Before breaking up for the summer holidays the junior SYG sportsmen put in some more solid cricket training and also

benefited from the expertise of Rob Nixon who came along to lend a hand at several sessions. Skill levels have improved

markedly and we now have some fine cricketers in the making. It was a pity, because of dates clashes, that the school team

could not enter the Kwik Cricket Festival in Inverness. However it had the chance to demonstrate its prowess in a rather one

sided match against Daviot school, where the application of skills and tactics led to an overwhelming victory. (Better note

though for next year that Daviot have talent too and are learning fast). Outstanding performances - a spectacular diving catch

by Tom Bell and professionally thought-out batting from Emma Paton and Jessica Fyffe. Some of the ones to watch for the

future team Ethan Crofts, Charlie Fuller and Lewis MacKay.

A lot of effort has been put into making the store room of the old hall into an actively useable area and it is now looking

very different. This is largely thanks to the efforts of all the talented, young graffiti artists that we probably didn’t know we

had in the community. Ages ranged from 7 to 70+ There are too many to mention, and also it is unnecessary , as most of

their names can be read in glorious Technicolor on the walls. French artist Marc Delaye conceived the main design and Stan

Beaumont could be described as artistic director for the project. Thanks also to Lynne Stephens and Rachel Fuller sausages

and burgers were sizzled to keep the troops going and the results of the three and a half day’s intense work are well worth

seeing. (dark glasses advised)

Eddie Macdonald generously provided carpet squares for the room (saving us about £500) and the youngsters worked

hard laying them in a 2008 design. With the pool table now set up, the dart board in place (thank you Simon) and Reg’s com-

puters and games magically appearing the place is looking like a proper “youth club”, and might be helpful in answering the

eternal questions “Where can we go ? What can we do ?”. We need adults for the rota. Please make yourself available -

phone 511766.

Forthcoming stuff: When the days get shorter we can start up the badminton and multisports again.

Also we are hoping to get involved in a dance and film project called “Mobile”. Financed by the National Lottery and organ-

ised by Eden Court dance workers we will have the chance to work out a few dance moves and record them on mobile

phone cameras for eventual editing into a Highlands wide dance movie to be screened at the theatre. Might be fun.

Strathdearn Youth Group AGM will be coming up towards the end of August. Open to everyone and support needed.

14 to 16 year olds might be interested to search out elsewhere in the newsletter an item concerning a competition con-

cerned with poppy day “Their Past Your Future”. Help can be supplied for those interested in entering and an expenses paid

trip to France and Belgium for winners can’t be bad.

Meantime we will try to get a games/youth club night going for juniors. Many thanks to all those not mentioned who have

helped.

8

HIGHLAND GAME FAIR

1st and 2nd August, Moy estate.

ANNUAL ART EXHIBITION

Art in Strathdearn

Friday and Saturday 22/23rd August

Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 10am – 4pm

Strathdearn Hall

FLOWER SHOW

Tomatin and District Gardening Club

Sat 6th September Strathdearn Halls

Entries from 10am – 12 noon

Open to the Public at 2.30pm

Further information: Sheila Don 511729

VINTAGE AGRICULTURAL WORKING & DISPLAY

DAY

Saturday 20th September, Daviot Farm

10am – 4pm

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING.

Friday 26th September, Strathdearn Hall,

10.30 - 11.30 am

Organiser: Janet Crummy

CEILIDH

Saturday 15th November, Tomatin Inn, 7pm

Fundraiser for Meallmore Lodge Resident Funds.

Tickets: Bruce Harman

HOSPICE COFFEE EVENING

with Sales table and Christmas Cards.

Friday 14th November, Strathdearn Hall

Organiser: Anne Hart

CRAFT FAIR

Saturday 6th December, Strathdearn Hall

Organiser and table reservations: May Buckle

SPECIAL EVENTS

NEWS FROM THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Law and Order: In May, PC Kinnaird indicated that there had been reports of bogus workmen in the Inver-

ness area, and that people should be aware of suspicious vehicles. The following month, there was alarm about a

used needle found in Distillery Wood. PC Kinnaird and the School were notified about this.

Road Safety: We welcomed Mr Ian Bishop, who has been delivering cycling proficiency classes to the prima-

ry school pupils, to our June meeting to talk about children’s cycling issues. Mr Bishop said that cycling condi-

tions through the village were appalling, specifically with regard to the speed of vehicles. This is an ongoing

problem and the traffic police have been asked to monitor the speed of vehicles travelling through the village. We

are actively involved with various agencies and a local contractor in trying to improve the safety of the children

travelling to school.

New Notice Boards have been ordered for the Distillery and Moy to replace ones that have had their day!

Closure of Tomatin Shop: We were sorry to see The Shop close but glad that so many gave so generously

towards Mrs Jean MacKay’s Presentation, and turned out in such numbers to pay tribute to Jean’s many years of

hard work in the service of the community on 7th June. Jean was presented with a carriage clock, a television with

built-in freeview channels, flowers and a poem written specially for the occasion. We also enjoyed a delicious tea,

and music provided by Bruce MacGregor and Mark Clements. (See Donald’s Poem elsewhere in this edition of

the Newsletter which pays further tribute to Jean). The Tomatin Country Shop opened soon afterwards, and it’s

good to be able to stock up locally again.

We have objected to the proposed Three Lane Carriageway at Moy, to the proposed Dunmaglass Wind-

farm, and continue to reflect the community’s concerns about the access track to the Glenkirk Windfarm.

It’s great to see the new Children’s Play Area taking shape at the Strathdearn Hall, and members of Strath-

dearn Primary School’s Parent Council are also seeking financial help from the Strathdearn Community Charitable

Trust for improved educational play equipment at the school to complement the gardens for which they have al-

ready raised funding. The Sports Facilities Sub-Group met with a representative from Sports Scotland early in

July to try to advance the Sports Facility Project which has been the subject of much hard work, spearheaded by

Alasdair Wallace and Duncan Hendry.

Freeburn Development: We received an update from Braemore Estates at our July meeting regarding their

plans for the old Freeburn/Little Chef site. They are seeking tenants for the retail units and intend to open for busi-

ness (including a hotel and restaurant) in Autumn 2009. In response to community concerns raised, we have asked

for the site to be tidied in the meantime.

Still on the subject of planning, George Macleod brought an innovative planning application to our July meet-

ing for Housing, Low-Cost Housing, Woodland Trails and Associated Car Parking in the Distillery Wood

area. The CC did not have a quorum of members to support or oppose this planning application, due to declara-

tions of interest and apologies. Accordingly, in line with Highland Council’s published guidance “Planning Mat-

ters for CCs”, we resolved to simply present the views of the community. Six people spoke against on the grounds

that this planning application is outwith the Local Plan (countered by Mr Macleod who stated that the develop-

ment concentrated housing in the village centre rather than in ‘ribbon’ development); access via Old Mill Road

was considered highly problematic – increased traffic leading to major problems with road safety and noise – as

well as reduced (and relocated) parking for residents at the top end of Old Mill Road – and the proximity of traffic

to existing properties. (Again, Mr Macleod expressed willingness to create more parking spaces although there

was some doubt as to whether the necessary land was in his ownership); impacts on wildlife (protected species

such as red squirrel and Scottish crossbills); detrimental impacts to village amenity, scenic quality, drainage and

slope instability; loss of natural play space for local children and recreational opportunities (Mr Macleod stated

paths and a woodland car park would be provided to help people access Distillery Wood). One member of the

public spoke strongly in favour of the development, stating that this would help ordinary working people to get a

house in the area, where affordable housing was much needed. 21 letters of objection to this planning application

have been lodged with the planning authorities.

On the subject of Affordable Housing, The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust held a “surgery” in

the Strathdearn Hall on 1st July to help establish the level and nature of local interest in new housing to meet local

needs. 6 households attended the surgery and 1 additional registration of interest form was also received, making

a total of 7 interested households comprising 12 individuals (all local). 3 households lived in tied housing and 4 in

private lets. 3 put affordable rented housing as their first preference, and 4 put Rural Home Ownership Grant

(RHOG) Self-Build plots as their first preference. There are two elements to building a home with a RHOG grant

on a serviced site purchased from HSCHT.

9

1) The RHOG funds the difference between what the homeowner can raise and what it actually costs to build

their house. (For example, say a couple with a joint income of £25,000 were only able to get a mortgage

for £75,000, but it cost £100,000 to build their house. The RHOG would pay the remaining £25,000.)

RHOG conditions apply for 10 years and the grant is repayable if breached within this period.

2) The HSCHT applies a (Shared Equity) Rural Housing Burden to every plot they sell which remains in force

regardless who owns it. HSCHT keeps (normally) 25 – 35% of the value of the house in perpetuity linked

to the land. This locks in the affordability element. For example, a couple who decide after 10 years to

move, having originally bought a 70% share of their house would sell their 70% share back to HSCHT and

this would enable HSCHT to sell the house on the same basis to another local couple.

“Most of those interviewed (at the Surgery) expressed their deep frustration at the apparent impossibility of

their ever being able to secure an affordable home of their own in their own community.” Two households report-

ed that they had grown up family members who would like to move back to the area if they could find accommoda-

tion, and were particularly interested in the provision of the Trust’s plots. So, potentially there are another 4

households interested in the plots, and information has been sent out to them. We remain grateful to the Tinsley

family for generously making 4 sites available to the Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust at low cost be-

tween Raigbeg and Dalnahoin. If the servicing costs can be made affordable, it is hoped to develop these as two

RHOG plots for self-build, and two rented properties, possibly taken on by Albyn Housing.

We continue to meet on the third Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm in the Strathdearn Hall (date of next meet-

ing 19th August) and encourage, and welcome, members of the public to attend our meetings and engage with the

issues facing our community.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

First Monday of the MonthSeptember to May (ex.January)7.30pm, Findhorn Room,Strathdearn HallWRIContact: Carol James 531220

2nd/4th Mondays of Month7.30pm, Findhorn Room,Strathdearn HallPatchwork & QuiltingContact: Chris West 511412

3rd Monday of Month7.30pm, Findhorn RoomStrathdearn Hall,Gardening ClubContact: Alex Don 511729

During Term-Time:Tuesdays 1 - 3 pm andFridays 9.45 - 11.45 amStrathdearn HallCroileagan Tom Aitinn(Tomatin Gaelic Playgroup)Contact: Rosemary Dempster 531215

Every Wednesday10.30 am Findhorn Room,Strathdearn Hall,Community Coffee MorningAll Welcome

Every Wednesday2pm Strathdearn HallWalking GroupContact: Kathy Bonniface 511740

Every Wednesday duringterm-time5.30 - 7pm Findhorn Room,Strathdearn HallYOGAContact: Mrs Pam Hardwick 511766

Every Thursday11am – 12noon Tomatin InnCoffee Morning

Every Thursday11.30am – 1.30pm Tomatin InnPOST OFFICE

Every Thursday1.30pm Findhorn Room,Strathdearn Hall,Art ClassContact: Mrs Betty Watson 511271

Last Friday of Month (venue varies)Strathdearn Book ClubSee Notices for details.

Monthly, various datesNatural History ClubSome indoor, some outdoor, events.Days vary, so look out for posters.Contact: David Bonniface 511740 or Carol James 531220

1st Strathdearn Rainbowand Brownie Unitfor girls aged 5 - 10.Contact Alison (511369) or Trish (511486)

10

FROM DULNAIN BRIDGE TO NAKOM NYAH

Extracts from an unpublished book written by the late Murdo MacAskill, Alt-Dhubhag, recording his wartime experi-ences.

“THE PHONEY CAPTIVITY”

Next day we marched the thirteen miles to Changi. On the way we passed through an area where the air was thick with

the smell of unburied bodies. In them idle of the road on the brow of a hill was a burnt out truck, with its driver still clutching

the steering wheel. In the hollow beyond, we passed through a small village, where among the inhabitants standing round

their doors watching us, we saw a single European face, that of a middle aged man, the last such civilian face we were to see

for three and a half years.

The next seven months, with hindsight, could be called the Phoney Captivity, at least for those of us who were left at

Changi for that period. About the only Japanese we ever saw were the truck drivers who came at times to transport work par-

ties to and from the docks. Our guards were Sikhs, recruited from Indian Army prisoners, and stationed t various points in

the area. As time went on they became more numerous, so that whereas at first we could move more or less freely over the

Changi area, after a time movement was much more restricted. Food was the worst problem, and one of the main topics of casual conversation. For ten days or so we lived on one

biscuit with a mug of tea in the morning, and one pint of MacConnachie’s Stew in the evening. This turned out to be luxury

compared with what followed, plain unpolished rice straight off the paddy fields, which often contained various insects and

maggots. For breakfast we got half a pint of pap (mashed up watery rice), a half pint of dry boiled rice at noon and a bare

pint of the same at night. To supplement this, small quantities of dark brown weevil infested stuff was issued to the cookhous-

es. We were told that this was the residue of coconut, left after the extraction of the oil and that it had some vitamin content.

Whether this was true or not, most prisoners, though hungry as Eskimo dogs, found it almost inedible, and no kind of cooking

improved it. For myself, I remember swallowing down as much as I could when I got the chance. I believe that men like my-

self who had been brought up largely on porridge, barley broth, and potatoes, also the bread and marge lads from the hungry

cities of the twenties and thirties, fared better in these early days than the better off bacon-and-egg-for-breakfast brigade,

whose stomachs took longer to make the necessary adjustment.

There was some ribald fun about latrine visits, which became more often weekly instead of daily. One hero boasted

about an absence from that place of twenty-one days, surely worthy of the Guinness Book of Records!

For a week our signal section was crowded into a small wooden hut and then moved into a building which had been used

as a miniature rifle range. This was simply a large thatched roof supported by a wooden frame over a concrete floor; it had

no walls. A high partition across the middle of the floor divided us (M Section) from L Section. We each had an Indian char-

poy bed consisting of a mesh of string stretched over a wooden frame.

One night a simple incident occurred which to this day causes me to laugh out loud when I think of it. Reg Avery, a big

Cockney fellow, occupied the bed at the north east corner with his head to the partition. Long after lights out, when nearly

everyone was asleep, the two or three of us who were still awake heard the quiet meouwling challenge of two tom cats com-

ing from Reg’s corner. Owing to Reg’s weight, the middle of his string bed sagged well down and when the cats finally

sprang at each other they tangled with all the usual savage sound and fury immediately beneath him. Reg went into a night-

mare resulting in such an unholy row as to wake everybody up, some jumping off their beds sure that a massacre had started!

Strathspey & Badenoch Welfare League. FOOTBALL REPORT

With the 2008 Season almost over, both Tomatin and Tomatin United are left reflecting on what might have been, rather than

what has actually been achieved.

Tomatin started the season with an early disappointment when they played the delayed final of last season’s inaugural

Highland Welfare Cup. They lost to a last minute goal. In May they reached the final of the RBL Cup – again losing, this

time 1-0 to Carrbridge. Early June saw yet another Cup Final – this time of the Tomatin Cup – and the only silverware of the

season to date, beating RBL Aviemore 4-1 after a hard slog against a weakened team. On 25th July was Cup Final No 4 – los-

ing again 5-1 to Aviemore Thistle in the Dalvey Cup at Cromdale.

In the League, Tomatin have been involved in a season long battle for the Title with Carrbridge and RBL Aviemore,

trying to retain the Shield won last year. However, they were disappointed again as the League was won on 29th July in the

last game by Carrbridge - Tomatin finishing runners-up. At the time of writing, only the Tomatin United Cup remains to be

played. Tomatin have also reached the semi-final of this season’s Highland Welfare Cup with an away tie at Cullen to be ar-

ranged. The winners will play Auldearn in the final.

Tomatin United have also had a disappointing second season. The standard of play has considerably improved on last

year, but luck has not been with them and victory finally arrived in their last league match at Cromdale, where they ran out

5-4 winners. Hopefully this will give them added confidence when they play their own cup semi-final. They will no doubt

be looking forward to next season when performances will improve further, backed up by more concentration on the field dur-

ing their matches.

Once again I cannot finish this report without complimenting, and thanking, Mike West on behalf of both Tomatin

and Tomatin United, for his excellent maintenance of the Raigbeg pitch. Thanks also to Sam and the boys at the Tomatin

Country Inn for continuing the tradition of providing post-match refreshments for both clubs.

Bruce Harman

11

DALAROSSIE IN STRATHDEARN

This article, written by Margaret MacKenzie, a free lance writ-

er, was first published in the “Scots Magazine” in April 1948.

Her niece, Mrs Anne-Mary Wharton of Beauly, has kindly giv-

en permission for it to be reprinted in this Newsletter.

Part 2

The River Findhorn was not always known as such. In

former days it was spoken of as the Erne, or the Water of Erne

– hence Strathdearn. The preface Fin, or Fionn, meaning white,

was in all probability bestowed upon it by the Roman Catholic

Church of Moray, in whose diocese it was, in order to distin-

guish it from other Ernes within the bounds, such as Auldearn.

In old charters it is named “The Water of Erne”. In church

records it is “The Findhorn” or “Fyndarne.”

The King’s Forest attached to the Royal castle at Inver-

ness was in this upper strath of the river, and included the

grassy bank where formerly it was believed St Fergus

preached and where his followers built their first church.

At the time of the Reformation, one John Dow was

appointed to minister to the wants of the people. In the year

1597, the Mackintosh Chief of Clan Chattan, whose territory it

was, submitted to the General Assembly of the Church of Scot-

land a plan for placing schools and churches throughout his

property, he himself to be responsible for the salary.

Dalarossie and Moy, where the Mackintosh had his seat, were

now united into one parish. At the Restoration of Charles II,

the minister of the joint charge conformed to Episcopacy, but

in 1709, a vacancy occurring through the death of a clergyman,

the Mackintosh of that day applied for the settlement of a Pres-

byterian minister.

For a time all went well. The people were kindly dis-

posed towards the probationers sent. Then shortly before the

actual settlement, a wave of Jacobitism swept Strathdearn from

end to end. The kindly feeling swung round to the other ex-

treme. Candidates for the vacancy withdrew one by one, all

except James Leslie from the parish of Ardclach on the Nairn-

shire banks of the Findhorn, and in the church at Moy, he was

duly ordained. The proceedings passed off quietly, the close

proximity to the proprietor’s house, and the assembly of Lairds

and clergy, acting no doubt as a deterrent to any would-be dis-

turbers of the peace.

But this effective bodyguard could not accompany the

new minister on the Sunday following, when he set out on foot

from his father’s home to take a service at Dalarossie. It was a

walk of well over twenty miles, part of it through the grim pass

of Pollochaig. Such a journey meant little to James Leslie.

Did he not, as a student at Aberdeen University, walk from Ar-

dclach to the Granite City?

On one occasion, when he had almost reached the

town, he realised he had forgotten to bring with him a Latin

book which had cost him seven and sixpence. Such a sum

meant much in those days. Instantly he turned on his heel, re-

traced his steps, and, at his father’s farm, retrieved the volume.

After a hasty meal he set off again for Aberdeen.

And so we find him, on this particular Sunday, walk-

ing with the long strides of the practised pedestrian, to take his

service. On reaching a wood, he had his first brush with the

enemy. Out from the trees came a crowd of women, their

aprons filled with stones. They delivered their ultimatum –

retrace his steps, or be stoned. James Leslie waited until the

angry voices had quietened somewhat. Then he spoke. “Let

the greatest witch among you throw the first stone,” said he.

None wishing to avail herself of such notoriety, the women

proceeded to discuss the next line of attack. In the confu-

sion caused by the argument the parson slipped quietly

away.

Arriving at the church, he found it empty, but on

the glebe a crowd had gathered, watching certain local ath-

letes “putting the stone”. These the clergyman approached,

inviting them to finish the game and attend the service. His

words fell upon deaf ears. The game went on. Then one of

the crowd challenged the minister to join in the sport. He

accepted, upon the condition that if he threw the stone fur-

ther than any of them they would come into the service.

Leslie stood over six feet in height, and was powerfully

built. His one throw went considerably further than that of

any of his opponents. Instantly the new minister rose in

their estimation. They kept their word, and followed him

into the church.

But opposition was to last for many a day. It was

even said that on another Sunday a ferocious bull was let

loose upon him while he was making for the church. As

the animal lowered his head for the toss, Leslie had the

presence of mind, and the strength, to strike the animal

right between the horns with his strong walking boots, and

so laid him low.

For fifty years he laboured in Strathdearn, slowly

but surely winning over the people, and so transforming

their way of living, that when his charge was handed over

to a successor, twenty-three elders were ordained in one

day in the Church of Dalarossie.

The last glimpse which local history gives us of

James Leslie, now an old man, is in the role of protector to

a lady in distress. The Battle of Culloden had been fought

and lost. In the Mackintosh castle as Moy, the Jacobite

wife of the Chief, the Lady Ann, who had rallied eight hun-

dred men to the Cause, heard the dire tidings, coupled with

the news that the Clan regiment had suffered disastrously,

only three of its officers surviving. James Leslie also heard

the news of the battle. Politically his sympathies were no

doubt Hanoverian, but the Chief’s wife was in danger, and

that was sufficient reason for him to hasten to Moy Hall.

On the morning following the battle, two detach-

ments of Cumberland’s men arrived to remove all available

cattle and household goods, and to take prisoner the Lady

Ann. Leslie was standing by her side when they entered the

room. Vainly he argued with them. They were heady with

victory, and in no mood to listen to an old parson’s plead-

ing. Money they must have, and the Lady Ann as their pris-

oner. Some indeed were in the act of laying hands upon

her, when one of their own officers came on the scene. In-

stantly he recognised in the lady a former friend. The ro-

manticists maintain he was once in love with her. There

was no further threatening or violence, but Sir Everard

Faulkner, lover or not, had to do his duty. Lady Ann, after

bidding farewell to James Leslie, was escorted in quite a

peaceable manner to Inverness, where for six weeks she

was detained as a prisoner of war.

Far up in Strathdearn, at an altitude of twelve hundred

feet, are patches of grassy moorland. Here in former days

the inhabitants of the Strath repaired with their cattle for

the summer sheiling. It was a happy time, with work and

song, and good company, and some called the district Fairy-

land; others the Abode of Peace. On a summer’s evening,

in the silence of those hills, one feels either name is appro-

priate.12

NEW NOTICE BOARDS

When these arrive, we would really appreciate it if

folks wanting to put up long-term notices could put

these up in a smaller format. Thanks!

STRATHDEARN NATURAL HISTORY CLUB

Are there Bats in Tomatin’s Belfry? Or, at least, in

and around Dalarossie Church? Come along on our

bat hunt on Wednesday 27th August and find out! We

will meet Inverness Area Ranger Katy Martin at

8.30pm in Strathdearn Hall car park and travel up the

Glen in as few cars as possible. Everyone is welcome

to join us.

The next meeting will be on Thursday 25th September

in the Hall at 7.30pm, when Juliet Robinson of the

Forestry Commission will talk about “Red Squirrels”.

The Club welcomes everyone to their meetings. If

you want more information, please contact: Carol

James 531220 or David Bonniface 511740. We look

forward to seeing you.

TOMATIN & MOY WRI

The 2008/2009 session starts on Monday 1st September

at 7.30pm in the Hall, when the speaker will be Janet

Crummy. She is going to bring souvenirs of her travels

and ask “Where in the World..?” After members have

had a chance to view the items and decide what each is

and where it came from, she will tell us about it. The

competition will be for three Rock Buns, and the Tea

Hostesses will be Sheila Don and Margaret Robertson.

On October 6th we hope to have a demonstration of

flower arranging. The details will be confirmed later.

On November 3rd the speaker will be from CHAS, the

children’s Hospice Association Scotland. Mrs Jane

Munro will talk about the movement and bring Christ-

mas cards and small items to sell. The competition will

be for a child’s birthday card in any medium.

New members and visitors are welcome at all our meet-

ings. We look forward to seeing you in September.

BOOK CLUB

The Strathdearn Book Club restarts after the holidays

with Alan Furst’s “The Foreign Correspondent”. We

are meeting on 30th September, 2pm-3.30pm, at Alt

Dubh (North End, Tomatin). Phone 511411 for details.

Strathdearn Community Council

www.tomatin.org.uk

publishes the "Strathdearn Newsletter" quarterly, deliv-

ering it free to every home in Strathdearn. The Newslet-

ter is sponsored by Mr George and Mrs Tanya Macleod

of the Tomatin Inn. This is a community newsletter,

and the views and opinions expressed in contributions

submitted by members of the community are not neces-

sarily those of Strathdearn Community Council, nor of

the Editor.

Editor: Mrs Denise Barley, Lauriston, Tomatin,

IV13 7YN.

Tel. 01808 511733 e-mail

Barley@btinternet.com

Page Layout: Mr Ian Mearns. Distribution: Mrs Su-

san Mackintosh-Grant.

13

Step It Up Highland

Throughout August, we shall be taking a break from

our regular Wednesday afternoon walks, but they will

resume again on September 3rd, at 2:00PM. As usual

we shall meet at Strathdearn Hall.

If you feel that you cannot manage our normal length

of walks, please do not be put off from coming, or

think that you will be holding others back. The walk

leaders are more than happy to arrange a separate

group who would follow a shorter or more level route,

whilst those who are more fit can follow our usual

routes at the same time, with both routes meeting up at

the end for tea, coffee and biscuits.

Do note that we are not a normal rambling group, but

are there to encourage people who may have health

problems and would benefit from the regular, gentle

exercise that walking provides, as well as those of you

who are perfectly healthy, but see exercise as a means

of staying well.

Remember: walking is free!

If you are interested, please contact Kathy or David

Bonniface on 01808 511740, or Carol James on

531220 or Lesley Smithers on 511217, or just turn up

on the day.