deeside - issue 17

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gazettemagazine

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas and

a Happy New Year

Issue 17Mid Dec 2012 - End Jan 2013

Deeside EditionFree Publication

2 www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 - 318561 email : [email protected]

Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication.

Ad-hoc contributions from :Sarah Davey - Debbie Singh-Bhatti - Carol Brown - Lee Bestall - Bill KirtonAdvertising Sales :Sue Simpson : 01224 - 318561

Distribution - thanks to : Sue - Liz - Valerie - Lewis - Stuart - Ross - Allie - Ben - Sean

Distributor wanted for Corse Road Area (Banchory)Torphins - whole of village!

Deeside gazettethru the door :now exclusive to Banchory & Drumoakdeadline :February 2013 mag16 January 2013contact : Sue Simpsontel : 01224 - 318561mob : 07813 964 875email : [email protected] : thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

gazettemagazine

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Issue 17Mid Dec 2012 - End Jan 2013Deeside EditionFree Publication

A note from Sue…Here we are at the end of 2012 already! Only a matter of weeks till we wish in 2013. So how was 2012 for you? Action packed, positive, healthy and family oriented? Well that would be the dream year wouldn’t it? There are a few articles this issue to help you achieve a better you, both financially and healthily!

For those of you that are still looking for a party then why not get a table for the last event in the Bling Fling calendar. A little bit different and helping two very worthy causes. See the poster to the right for full details.

If you are planning a wedding in the near future then you need to mark on your calendar the Your Wedding Exhibition being held at the Aberdeen Exhibition Centre in January. I have pieced together an eight page wedding feature, with local businesses that will be attending the exhibition.

The end of January is the time to spot birds in your garden. Got to beat watching the telly and you never know what you might see – apart from the neighbour’s cat! I have not forgotten about telling you about my Body MOT experience and I will tell all in February – it will be worth the wait!

Looking after your pet is important at the best of time but even more so during the winter months. Zara at W.A.G.S has written a wee piece to help you help your pet.

When the festivities are over there is a bit of a lull. The thought of thinking up another meal is laborious! So the Four Mile at Kingswells has very kindly given us a 20% off voucher to use during January and February, Monday to Thursday. I’ll definitely be using mine! In fact pre-booked already for January!

Anyway back to, today. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for reading the gazette and using the advertisers within it. I love my job – truly. But the gazette is not the gazette without you the readers, my loyal and dependable delivery team and the wonderful advertisers who want to let you know about their local businesses. So I’d like to wish you a wonderful Christmas with your loved ones or even on your own and a very happy and healthy 2013.

I think for this month we could maybe grab a cup of mulled wine or cider and read on…

See you all in February 2013.

Very best wishes, Sue

3please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

Thank you for letting us put a sparkle in your oven in 2012!

Merry ChristmasThe Oven Valet

Wishing the readers, the advertisers and the loyal delivery team and everyone that helps make the gazette a good read a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2013.Sue x

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a Healthy New Year.Festive wishes fromBiomedical ClinicBanchory


New year, new hobby


Eat healthily, start exercising, get more sleep… As you list your usual New Year resolutions, why not add in something fun for once? January is the perfect time to lift your spirits out of a winter slump by starting a new hobby, and there have never been so many activities to try.

To narrow down your choice, think about what you’d like to add your life. Do you want to meet more people? Be more active? Learn a skill? Get creative? You may want to develop something that you are already interested in, or try something completely new.

Look around to find out what’s going on. Your adult education centre and library will be able to help, and you’ll find information in cafés, newsagents, community centres and local magazines.

If you were inspired by the 2012 Olympics, you could try a new sport or exercise class, but getting fit doesn’t have to mean sport. Why not follow the Strictly contestants and sample the benefits of ballroom dancing or Zumba, or simply aim to get out more and enjoy the countryside?

Geocaching is an exciting new outdoor activity that the whole family can enjoy. It’s essentially a high-tech treasure hunt. Another new trend is roller derby – a fast-paced contact sport where teams race to lap the opposition as they skate around the track.

If you fancy using your mind more than your body, you could learn a new language in preparation for a foreign holiday perhaps. Or build on an existing interest by joining a photography class or book group.Music can reduce stress and improve your mood, so why not dust off that instrument you haven’t touched for years and join an amateur orchestra?

Choirs are increasingly popular and you’re sure to find a range of musical styles available.

Crafts have had a real boost lately, with knitting and sewing groups setting up all over the country. Jewellery and card-making are also satisfying. You can get started quite cheaply and pick up the basics quickly. The bonus is that you get to keep the end result, or give it as a gift. You also have the potential to earn money by selling your creations.

Increased access to computers means that we can get involved in a whole host of new communities without even leaving the house. Many of us enjoy researching our family trees and finding the facts behind our memories. It’s also easy to use social networks to track down old school friends and colleagues that we’ve lost touch with.

And if none of these is for you, how about foraging, meditation, wine-tasting, line-dancing, magic tricks, bee-keeping, historical re-enactments, home baking…the list really is endless!

Alex Brown

Sale Savvy!SALE! No matter where you look or where you go, the message at this time of the year is the same: now is the time to bag yourself a bargain. Yet even though buying items in the sales can make your hard earned cash go further, please remember that you are still spending money, not saving it! Here are a few tips for getting the best possible deals without ending up with buyer’s remorse!

First of all, do your homework before the sales start. Visit your favourite shops and pick out the items that you really want to buy, and even try them on beforehand. Make a list and stick to it, then when the shops open you can make a beeline for the items you want without wasting time, and risking life and limb battling with a hundred other shoppers who are elbowing their way through the pile of reduced items!

Alternatively, why not shop online? Still do the research, but buy in the comfort of your home without having to wrestle your way through a busy store. Online shops usually give some indication of stock levels. If they only have a few items left then make your purchase at the beginning of the sale, but if there are plenty, why not wait a week or so to see if the price drops further?

When deciding what to buy in the sales, don’t choose anything that you wouldn’t be tempted to pay full price for. If you don’t love it, don’t buy it – or you could end up with something you won’t wear and it will end up being a complete waste of money – no matter how much you ‘saved’ compared with the usual price!

When tempted to buy something, ask yourself whether you already have something like it in your wardrobe at home. If you do, it begs the question, do you really need it? You might have a penchant for a particular style or colour, but honestly, how many black pencil skirts do you really need?!

That said, it is much better to buy items that you can add to your capsule wardrobe than it is to snap up a statement jacket, or bizarre shirt, that will only team up with one or two pieces in your clothing collection - even it does have 70% off! Stick with classic, timeless designs in tonal colours that suit your skin type, and in styles that flatter your body shape. Choose neutral colours which can be dressed up or down with colourful accessories and your clothes will go much further!

So, armed with this guide to savvy sales shopping, go grab yourself a bag and bag yourself a bargain!

Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Keep warm this winter

In the dark, dank days of January, it’s vital that we keep ourselves warm. For older people particularly, cold weather can lead to health problems such as chest infections, heart attacks and strokes.

The Government recommends that we keep our main living room between 18 and 21°C, and the rest of the house at a minimum of 16°C. You may be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments of up to £400 if you were born on or before 5 July 1950 – call 08459 151515 for details. Also, the Warm Front Scheme (0800 316 2805) offers grants for heating and insulation improvements.

Make sure you wrap up warm when you’re indoors and out, at daytime and night. Several thinner layers are more effective at trapping heat than one thick layer. Thermal underwear is a great investment, and a hat, scarf and gloves will stop you losing body heat.

There’s nothing worse than being cold in bed, so use an electric blanket or hot water bottle before you get in, and wear bed socks.

Eat plenty of warming stews and soups, and have regular hot drinks. Spices such as chilli, cayenne pepper, cinnamon and ginger will warm you up from the inside!

It is also important to keep active – try to move around at least once an hour.

Debbie Singh-Bhatti

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Big Garden BirdwatchTake part on January 26th-27th

Did you know that British gardens occupy twice the area set aside for nature reserves? This means they play a vital role in wildlife conservation.

How you can help? Put up nest boxes and roosting pockets These provide places for birds to breed and sleep.

Set up feeding stations High energy foods like stale cake, biscuits, pastry, pasta and potato are enjoyed by many birds. Raisins and other dried fruit are welcomed by Blackbirds and Thrushes. Most garden centres stock a variety of proprietary bird seed and nuts which appeal across the species but don’t forget to scatter some under hedges for shy birds like Dunnocks and Wrens who prefer to feed on the ground.

Make sure fresh water is available It’s important for drinking and bathing.

Once you’ve created a welcoming environment it’s time to sit back and take part in The Big Garden Birdwatch run by the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). Simply spend an hour recording how many birds and which species visit your garden on either the 26th or 27th of January and submit your results online at the address below. Not only will the results will be analysed and published on the site but you’ll get the warm glow that comes from knowing you’ve done your bit for bird conservation.

Visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

Sarah Davey

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The excitement of Christmas is over, and the decorations which have adorned our homes for the past month are gone. I don’t know about you, but the house always seems so bare and empty in January. Maybe it’s because it was filled with cards, people and festive clutter for slightly longer than it should have been! It’s not only the inside space though, as the garden looks pretty bleak too right now. There won’t be any sign of life out there for ages yet, as the frozen soil, heavy frosts and possibly snow mean that plants and animals are, quite rightly, still dormant. I often wonder whether humans were also meant to hibernate, as we indulge our natural instincts to snuggle up in warm spaces, eat stodgy food and sleep more.

The daylight hours may be short, but they are lengthening slowly, and it’s the slight change in night length which causes plants to begin to awaken. Plants use a variety of ways in which to respond to their environmental conditions, and seem much better at it than us humans.

A Garden View January days are short

It’s because they can’t just slip on a coat, turn up the heating, or turn on a tap for a drink, that plants have evolved very clever ways to survive.

You may ask yourself how a plant knows when its time to wake up, when to flower and when to lose their leaves, and it’s an interesting question, if a little too scientific for some. It’s all to do with a plants circadian clock, which responds and stimulates changes based on the number of light/dark hours in any 24 hour period. This means that as the plant registers the slight increase in daylight hours (or more correctly the decrease in dark hours), responses such as flowering or leaf fall can occur. Plants use other methods too such as vernalisation, whereby bulbs for example, need a certain period of cold in order to flower.

Plant biology is a really interesting topic, and learning why plants respond the way they do can help to develop an understanding about where they will thrive. You can use this information to be a more educated gardener, and to help increase your chances of success with plants. If all that has just confused you don’t worry, next time you are given a plant, just pop it in anywhere, and if it dies … well, at least there’s a gap to buy something else!

Here are a few jobs to do in the garden to keep you warm this month:Prune apple and pear treesRecycle your Christmas tree or shred it for mulchDig over soil in the vegetable gardenPlant new fruit bushes if the ground is not frozenContinue taking hardwood cuttings of deciduous trees, shrubs and currant bushesBuy or order vegetable seeds and seed potatoesCut the old leaves from hellebores to reveal their flowersPlant bare-root roses, trees, shrubs and hedgingMelt or break frozen pond surfaces so fish can breathe


Wedding Plans


Many say their wedding was the best day of their lives! For others, the stress of planning the event turned the whole thing into a nightmare. So, whether your dream wedding is big and grand, or small and simple, here are some tips to help you have your perfect wedding day.

Some couples will pick their wedding date first, whilst others will choose their venue. If you have a strong preference for a particular date, then do try and book at least 12 months in advance as the most popular venues soon become booked for prime dates.

Whilst a Saturday Summer wedding remains the most popular choice, some couples are increasingly taking advantage of discounted off peak and last minute wedding packages.

To become legally married, you can choose a religious service, a civil ceremony, or get married abroad. Churches may require you to attend regularly, be baptised and /or

live in the parish, so check this in plenty of time to avoid disappointment. Whilst many feel a civil ceremony can be more personal with a greater opportunity to choose vows, readings and music which suits the individuals, all weddings have strict legal requirements. Your eligibility to marry will be checked, and your service must fulfil established criteria. If you wish to marry abroad, you must meet your destination’s wedding requirements as well as UK law. You will usually require a ring or rings as part of the ceremony.

Once you’ve arranged your wedding ceremony, you can think about your celebrations. As well as thinking about how you will get to your wedding, if your day includes several venues, you will need to provide your guests with directions or could choose to provide transport for them during the event. You will also need to decide where you want your photographs taken at a multi-venue wedding.

Most newlyweds provide their guests with food and drink. Catering can be a large part of the wedding budget, so you should make sure you know what’s included in any packages offered. The timing of a wedding can be important in determining how many meals you will need to provide for guests.

Lots of couples choose a theme for their wedding. This may be a colour based theme, or a genre such as Victorian or Hollywood. This theme can be facilitated through the clothing, flowers, invitations and table settings that are chosen.

The wedding cake is a traditional part of many weddings. Increasingly modern designs and cakes with various flavourings are featured instead of tiered iced fruit cakes. The cake offers a further opportunity for the bride and groom to stamp their personality on proceedings, and some also choose to use the cake as a dessert for their guests to save

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Make sure your venue has the capacity to deal with all your guests, check the access arrangements for less mobile attendees, and if you have guests who want to stay overnight , ensure the venue has bedrooms or that there are hotels close by. If you want to celebrate until the early hours, check the venue’s licensing hours, and as some venues do not allow fireworks if they

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are high on your wish list, remember to ask about this before parting with a deposit.

Many couples choose to have singers, musicians or entertainers as part of their wedding day. There may be a choir or other performers during the ceremony, an opportunity for music in the background at the Reception and to accompany evening dancing. Or you may choose to provide acts such as waiters who become opera singers, children’s’ entertainers, magicians, or a live band.

Of course, no wedding would be complete without the outfits. Many wedding dresses can take several months to arrive at UK shops, so be sure to order in plenty of time. You may also be surprised, and disappointed to find, that the dream dress you chose from a magazine or in a shop window does not suit you, so allow sufficient time to try on enough dresses to be sure you’ve found the perfect one. Think about your size, height and perhaps the theme of your wedding to determine whether an A line dress, Empire, Sheath,strapless,


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long or short dress will be the one for you. Do remember that you might require help to get into your dress on the day, particularly if it has a lace up back or small buttons. Set yourself a realistic budget, and remember that you need to pay for accessories too.

Once the bride’s dress is chosen you can focus on the bridesmaids, other attendants and the bridegroom. Usually the style and formality of these will follow the brides outfit. Many of the guests, including the Mother of the Bride, will also want to take care to ensure they have the perfect clothing and accessories, so do encourage them to shop well ahead - and if there is a theme let them know, so that they can enjoy feeling a special part of your wonderful wedding day.

Congratulations and enjoy planning your wedding!

By Sue Brookes

PS : If you are totally overwhelmed then why not pop along to the Your Wedding Exhibition at the AECC on 19 and 20 January where you can browse the exhibitors, watch the fashion shows and get a feel for what you’d really really like! The photos to the left show you how good it will be.

Photos provided by YWE Ltd

15please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to advertsPlease do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

How to choose a wedding photographer


After you’ve set the date and booked your venue, your choice of photographer is probably one of the most important decisions to make about your wedding. Your photos will shape your memories for years to come, and it’s crucial that they capture the atmosphere of your special day.

Photography is also likely to be one of the biggest costs of your wedding – another reason to get it just right.

To give yourself the widest choice, start researching photographers as soon as you can. Visit wedding fairs, look at websites such as www.findaweddingphotographer.co.uk for ideas, and ask friends and family for recommendations. Your venue may also be able to make suggestions.

Before you meet potential photographers, think carefully about what you want from them. Most

will offer prices based on how many venues you need them to attend, how long they stay with you, how many photos they take and how many you have printed.

Get together a list of shots that you’d like to have taken. Your photographer will tell you the traditional groups, but you may want different combinations, family portraits, or pictures of friends visiting from abroad for example.

When you have a shortlist of photographers, arrange to meet each one in person so you can see their work and get an idea of their personality. You need someone who can get everyone organised, but they must also make you feel at ease.


Look at as much of their work as you can – if possible, ask to see one couple’s full album to see the story it tells, rather than a random selection of the photographer’s best shots.

You will need to decide if you prefer traditional photographs, a more informal style, or perhaps a mixture of both. Also consider if you like colour, black and white, sepia or other effects that may be available.

Look carefully at a variety of shots. In the big groups, is everyone looking at the camera? Do the happy couple look relaxed? Do you like the poses and backgrounds used? Can you see the detail in the dress, flowers and cake? How have they coped with bad weather?

It’s very important to find out if photographers have wedding indemnity insurance to cover the cost of retaking

your photos if something goes wrong. If not, you will need to take out your own insurance.

Finally, you should think about how you want your photos to be displayed. An album is traditional, but digital versions on a website are easy to show to friends and family. Talk through different options with your photographer to make sure what they are offering is right for you.

Alex Brown


Suite G4/1Banchory Business Centre

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Five Best Diet ChangesA new year - a new start. How can you start improving your diet and your chances of leading a healthier lifestyle?

First – eat breakfast! After many hours without food our bodies need refuelling to bring the blood sugar back up and ensure the brain and muscles are functioning properly. Eating breakfast aids concentration and creates energy.

Drink more water We lose on average 2-4 litres of water a day, which needs to be replaced. Current advice is to drink 6-8 glasses daily to ensure that our brain, blood and muscles are able to function at their best.

Eat more fruit and vegetables. Their vitamins and minerals boost the immune system, whilst antioxidants fight cancer and disease, and fibre cleanses the gut. We should eat five portions per day.

Eat less red meat Reduce the risk of bowel and other cancers. Health experts suggest 500g per week (the equivalent of one steak, one pork chop, 2 sausages and a portion of Bolognese sauce) or 70g per day (three rashes of bacon).

Eat more consciously Take time to really taste and savour the food in your mouth. Be aware of the textures and flavours - and chances are you will enjoy your food more whilst eating less of it!

Remember, you are what you eat. Eat healthy, be healthy!

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti


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CluesAcross 1 American Space Agency (initials) (4) 4 Conjurer (8) 7 Refrain from an action (7) 9 Grunt (5) 11 Without restrictions (13) 12 Money or property (5) 17 Cross-examination (13) 18 Nimble (5) 19 Dry white wine (7) 20 Travel document (8) 21 Dormant Sicilian volcano (4)

Down 2 Lacking pigment (6) 3 Motion (6) 5 Large artillery gun (6) 6 In a foreign country (6) 8 Big business (8) 10 Power (8) 13 Mystery (6) 14 Large string instruments (6) 15 Steady (6) 16 Elixir (6)

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What’s On Banchory ...Film Night: Elf (cert. PG) At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 20th December 2012, 19:30

Saturday Storytimes , At Banchory Library Saturday 22nd December 2012, 11:00 - 11:30 Saturday Storytime at Banchory Library Saturday 22nd December 2012, 11:00 - 11:30

Hogmanay at StonehavenMusic, Stonehaven Market SquareMonday 31 Dec 2012 2:00pmThis year, Stonehaven will stage it’s largest ever Hogmanay event. After last years Open Air in the Square was cancelled due to a lack of volunteers, a new group of residents have come together to put on an even bigger event to fill the gap. The party will be all ticketed and climax with a blistering set from the fantastic Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

Burns NightFilm, Music, Talks, Woodend BarnFriday 25 Jan 2013 7:00pmEnjoy a a traditional Burns Night with a twist at Woodend Barn, featuring a delicious Burns Supper from Buchanans Bistro. Burns-themed entertainment will include local speakers, music from Wounded Knee, and Alastair Cook introduces his film ‘Not In My Name’, featuring poetry by Kevin Williamson which explores the radical, seditious, revolutionary side to Scotland’s national poet. Renowned fiddler Paul Anderson and band will round the evening off with a ceildih. £34.50 per person + bf.

Session A9Music, Woodend BarnFriday 01 Feb 2013 8:00pmNominated for Live Act of the Year at the 2012 Scottish Trad Music Awards, Session A9 grew from informal music sessions arranged by Capercaillie fiddler Charlie McKerron. Current fellow members include: Adam Sutherland, Brian Mcalpine, David “Chimp” Robertson, Gordon Gunn, Kevin Henderson and Marc Clement. They have recorded two critically acclaimed albums and have toured many of the UK’s major music festivals in additional to international tour dates. £14.00, £12.00 conc. £5.00 u16 in advance + bf

Film: The Descendants (Payne 2011)Film, Woodend BarnTuesday 12 Feb 2013 7:30pmFrom Alexander Payne, the creator of the Oscar-winning SIDEWAYS, set in Hawaii, THE DESCENDANTS is a sometimes humorous, sometimes tragic journey for Matt King (George Clooney) an indifferent husband and father of two girls, who is forced to re-examine his past and embrace his future when his wife suffers a boating accident off of Waikiki. The event leads to a rapprochement with his young daughters while Matt wrestles with a decision to sell the family’s land handed down from Hawaiian royalty and missionaries. £5.50, £4.50 conc. + bf

Smallpetitklein: CUTTheatre, Woodend BarnWednesday 13 Feb 2013 7:00pmCUT is an interactive promenade performance around various spaces in Woodend Barn, fusing dance, text, design, animation, new music and comedy, in a quirky, melodramatic reimagining of the story of Bizet’s opera Carmen.

Scottish Opera: Opera HighlightsMusic, Woodend BarnThursday 14 Feb 2013 7:30pm Scottish Opera is hitting the road once more, travelling the length and breadth of Scotland with a selection of opera highlights, and bringing the 50th anniversary celebrations to a venue near you!

Scottish Opera HighlightsTheatre, Woodend BarnThursday 14 Feb 2013 7:30pmScottish Opera bring their 50th anniversary celebrations to Woodend Barn. The show will feature musical highlights from their favourite productions over the years, and includes stories and anecdotes from the Company’s history. Full of energy, versatility and plenty of humour, a cast of four young singers and a pianist perform a line-up of excerpts from favourites including Bizet’s Carmen, Puccini’s La Bohème, and Mozart’s Don Giovanni, as well as music by Handel, Rossini, Britten and Bernstein, and some surprises from lesser-known works.

WMS: Gildas QuartetMusic, Woodend BarnSunday 17 Feb 2013 7:00pm

Recent winners of a 2013 Tunnell Trust Concert Award this outstanding young quartet, formed in 2010 by Masters students at the Royal Northern College of Music, has performed widely in the UK and across Europe. They have accumulated numerous prizes between them, most recently being awarded the prestigious Barbirolli Prize for String Quartet. This concert is sponsored by the Tunnell Trust. Haydn: String Quartet Op. 54 No. 2 Britten: String Quartet No. 1 Brahms: String Quartet Op. 51 No. 2

Eugene Onegin – Live from the Royal Opera HouseTheatre, Woodend BarnWednesday 20 Feb 2013 7:15pmAn opera full of poignancy and sensitivity to the nuances of growing up and wrestling to understand your emotions. Eugene Onegin is Tchaikovsky’s tender exploration of a young girl’s awakening passion, her rejection by the aloof Onegin and her ultimate choice of honour over true love. Working with the Danish set designer Mia Stensgaard, whose design hallmark is clean, strong images ripe with emotion, and fielding a brilliant cast, director Kasper Holten will provide a fresh reading of this classic opera.

Whatever Gets You Through The NightFilm, Woodend BarnFriday 22 Feb 2013 8:00pmA stellar line-up of Scottish musicians including Emma Pollock, Withered Hand and Rachel Sermanni feature in this beautiful collection of stories told in song, shot during the night in locations across the country. Come and meet lost souls, party animals and dreamers in a snapshot of an entire nation between the hours of midnight and 4am.

WMS: Stephen OsborneMusic, Woodend BarnSunday 24 Feb 2013 3:00pmPianist Steven Osborne is one of Britain’s foremost musicians, renowned for his idiomatic approach to a wide variety of repertoire. His numerous awards and prizes includes the 2009 Gramophone Award for his recording of Britten’s works for piano and orchestra.


HAPPY HOLIDAYS

As our darkest and frostiest days are upon us many of us dream of sunshine and holidays for the year ahead. Many people are surprised to learn that there’s a country in Europe, a country where they drive on the left and use the same 3 pin plugs as us(!) which offers sunshine and real warmth almost all year round. That country is Cyprus.

From February onwards Cyprus offers the chance for lunching al-fresco with few extra layers, and there’s nothing so uplifting to the spirit and soul as whiff of warm air and a view of azure seas way before our Spring is even thinking about peeking around the corner.

The Aphrodite Hills resort near Paphos in Cyprus offers golf, tennis and a fabulous award-winning Spa all of which are most enjoyable in these cooler months of the year. There is also some fantastic coastal walking and mountain biking and guided cycle tours which are tremendous fun in Cyprus in February / March as the stunning Spring flowers come into bloom and the island is resplendent, verdant green at this time of year.

The Penthouse at Aphrodite Hills (www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com) offers luxurious and incredibly flexible accommodation not just for families but also for groups of friends who wish to enjoy shared living space. Up to 3 couples can have their privacy with their own suite and terrace, and it’s an easy stroll to all the resort’s facilities. So if some of your party wish to play tennis at the fantastic tennis academy, maybe even join one of the Annabel Croft tennis programmes, whilst others golf or gym or luxuriate in the beautiful Spa or simply grab a coffee, read a book and absorb the stunning sea views this is definitely the place for you

The earliest months of the year are also perfect for driving up into the Troodos Mountains (on some days the audacious can ski in the mountains and swim in the sea on the same day!) The coastline around Aphrodite Hills

is spectacular with sweeping craggy clifflines and of course the legendary Aphrodite’s Rock, but you can quickly leave the coast and find yourselves in ancient villages that time has left behind, or take in a monastery and a traditional mezze.

The local villages of Kouklia and Pissouri as well as Paphos itself offer a variety of restaurants should you tire of the selection available on the resort, the latter of course leaving you free to stroll back to the Penthouse at the end of your meal.

Check out our website www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com for loads more information about what your Cyprus break could offer you, along with photos to inspire you and a video to show you around the Penthouse itself. We have 100% 5* reviews on Trip Advisor so far and more on our website, so you wouldn’t be the first to discover this amazing gem but hopefully you’ll be thrilled that you have

Flights are available from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle as well as other options and the journey time from Paphos airport to the Penthouse is only around 15 minutes! With only a 2 hour time difference there’s no jetlag and flight time can be as little as 4½ hours.

So how about you take a moment out of your festivities and check out this fabulous possibility? And if you want to ask me anything more, please do email me on [email protected] and I will be

happy to come back to you as quickly as possible. Happy Holidays Amanda x

Happy Holidays As our darkest and frostiest days are upon us, many of us dream of sunshine and holidays for the year ahead. Many people are surprised to learn that there’s a country in Europe, a country where they drive on the left and use the same 3 pin plugs as us(!) which offers sunshine and real warmth almost all year round. That country is Cyprus.

From February onwards, Cyprus offers the chance for lunching al-fresco with few extra layers, and there’s nothing so uplifting to the spirit and soul as the whiff of warm air and a view of azure seas way before our Spring is even thinking about peeking around the corner.

The Aphrodite Hills resort, near Paphos in Cyprus, offers golf, tennis and a fabulous award-winning Spa, all of which are most enjoyable in these cooler months of the year. There is also some fantastic coastal walking and mountain biking and guided cycle tours which are tremendous fun in Cyprus in February/March as the stunning Spring flowers come into bloom and the island is resplendent and verdant green at this time of year.

The Penthouse at Aphrodite Hills (www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com) offers luxurious and incredibly flexible accommodation. Not only for families but also for groups of friends who wish to enjoy shared living space. Up to 3 couples can have their privacy with their own suite and terrace, and it’s an easy stroll to all the resort’s facilities. So, if some of your party wish to play tennis at the fantastic tennis academy, maybe even join one of the Annabel Croft tennis programmes, whilst others golf or gym or luxuriate in the beautiful Spa or simply grab a coffee, read a book and absorb the stunning sea views, this is definitely the place for you.

The earliest months of the year are also perfect for driving up into the Troodos Mountains (on some days the audacious can ski in the mountains and swim in the sea on the same day (!). The coastline around Aphrodite Hills is spectacular, with sweeping craggy cliff lines and of course the legendary Aphrodite's Rock, but you can quickly leave the coast and find yourselves in ancient villages that time has left behind, or take in a monastery and a traditional mezze.

The local villages of Kouklia and Pissouri, as well as Paphos itself, offer a variety of restaurants should you tire of the selection available on the resort, the latter, of course, leaving you free to stroll back to the Penthouse at the end of your meal.

Check out our website www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com for loads more information about what your Cyprus break could offer you, along with photos to inspire you and a video to show you around the Penthouse itself. We have 100% 5* reviews on Trip Advisor so far and more on our website, so

you wouldn’t be the first to discover this amazing gem but hopefully you’ll be thrilled that you have

Flights are available from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle, as well as other options and the journey time from Paphos airport to the Penthouse is only around 15 minutes! With only a 2 hour time difference there’s no jet lag and flight time can be as little as 4.5 hours.

So how about you take a moment out of your festivities and check out this fabulous possibility? And if you want to ask me anything more, please do email me on [email protected] and I will be happy to come back to you as quickly as possible.

Happy Holidays Amanda x

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

As our darkest and frostiest days are upon us many of us dream of sunshine and holidays for the year ahead. Many people are surprised to learn that there’s a country in Europe, a country where they drive on the left and use the same 3 pin plugs as us(!) which offers sunshine and real warmth almost all year round. That country is Cyprus.

From February onwards Cyprus offers the chance for lunching al-fresco with few extra layers, and there’s nothing so uplifting to the spirit and soul as whiff of warm air and a view of azure seas way before our Spring is even thinking about peeking around the corner.

The Aphrodite Hills resort near Paphos in Cyprus offers golf, tennis and a fabulous award-winning Spa all of which are most enjoyable in these cooler months of the year. There is also some fantastic coastal walking and mountain biking and guided cycle tours which are tremendous fun in Cyprus in February / March as the stunning Spring flowers come into bloom and the island is resplendent, verdant green at this time of year.

The Penthouse at Aphrodite Hills (www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com) offers luxurious and incredibly flexible accommodation not just for families but also for groups of friends who wish to enjoy shared living space. Up to 3 couples can have their privacy with their own suite and terrace, and it’s an easy stroll to all the resort’s facilities. So if some of your party wish to play tennis at the fantastic tennis academy, maybe even join one of the Annabel Croft tennis programmes, whilst others golf or gym or luxuriate in the beautiful Spa or simply grab a coffee, read a book and absorb the stunning sea views this is definitely the place for you

The earliest months of the year are also perfect for driving up into the Troodos Mountains (on some days the audacious can ski in the mountains and swim in the sea on the same day!) The coastline around Aphrodite Hills

is spectacular with sweeping craggy clifflines and of course the legendary Aphrodite’s Rock, but you can quickly leave the coast and find yourselves in ancient villages that time has left behind, or take in a monastery and a traditional mezze.

The local villages of Kouklia and Pissouri as well as Paphos itself offer a variety of restaurants should you tire of the selection available on the resort, the latter of course leaving you free to stroll back to the Penthouse at the end of your meal.

Check out our website www.AphroditeHillsPenthouse.com for loads more information about what your Cyprus break could offer you, along with photos to inspire you and a video to show you around the Penthouse itself. We have 100% 5* reviews on Trip Advisor so far and more on our website, so you wouldn’t be the first to discover this amazing gem but hopefully you’ll be thrilled that you have

Flights are available from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle as well as other options and the journey time from Paphos airport to the Penthouse is only around 15 minutes! With only a 2 hour time difference there’s no jetlag and flight time can be as little as 4½ hours.

So how about you take a moment out of your festivities and check out this fabulous possibility? And if you want to ask me anything more, please do email me on [email protected] and I will be

happy to come back to you as quickly as possible. Happy Holidays Amanda x


Now until Sun, January 6: Aberdeen Performing Arts and Qdos Entertainment present the truly wicked panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring Elaine C Smith, Alan McHugh and Jordan Young, at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, with matinees at 1.45pm or 2.30pm and evening performances at 7pm daily except for Tues Jan 1.

Fri, January 11: In the best Viennese tradition, One Night in Vienna, featuring the Johann Strauss Dancers, guest soprano Charlotte Ellett and conductor Rainer Hersch, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Wed to Sat, January 16 to 19: Scottish Ballet presents The Nutcracker, featuring Anthony McDonald’s stunning sets and costumes, Ashley page’s breathtaking choreography and Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2pm Wed and Sat matinees. Free pre-show talks on dance at 6.30pm on Thur, January 17, and on music at 6.30pm on Fri, January 18.

Fri, January 18: Another chance to enjoy one of the best ceilidh bands in the world, Ceilidh with Clachan Yell, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Sat, January 19: Scottish Ballet presents an Insight into The Nutcracker in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 11am, with a recommended age of six plus.

Sat, January 19: Scottish Chamber Orchestra present The Little C Major, with SCO associate artist Richard Egarr as conductor and on fortepiano, performing Beethoven’s Overture Prometheus, Dussek’s Piano Concerto in G Minor Op49 and Schubert’s Symphony No6 in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Pre-concert talk at 6.45pm, free to ticket holders.

Sat, January 19: A welcome return of the Edinburgh trio Moving Pictures for two hours of selected classics from Rush’s early repertoire, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Mon to Sat, January 21 to 26: Straight from her triumphant West End season, the sensational Emi Wokoma in Soul Sister, a new musical inspired by the music, life and times of Ike and Tina Turner in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm from Mon to Thur; at 5.30pm and 8.30pm on Fri and 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Sat.

Fri, January 25: A deliciously wicked evening of gloriously camp no-holds-barred comedy with Craig Hill: Jock’s Trap, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8pm.

Fri and Sat, January 25 and 26: Greycard presents Scotland’s Little Sparrow and multi-award winning songwriter and performer Christine Bovill in PIAF, a homage that will

transport the audience from Aberdeen to the streets of Montmartre, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Tues, January 29: Known for his work fronting the enigmatic rock band Pedro the Lion, David Bazan takes his emotionally charged narratives, eye for telling detail, and mournful voice to The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Wed, January 30: Entertaining and thought-provoking, Infinite Scotland journeys through Scotland’s fascinating natural diversity and brilliant artistic life, led by Blythe Duff (Taggart) and Kenny Taylor (BBC Attenborough programmes), in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Wed and Thur, January 30 and 31: Quids In Theatre presents Dead Dad Dog, a comic nightmare when Eck tries to survive the day and a job interview with the ghost of his long-dead father in two, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

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Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122

Into the future...Birds of a Feather with Pauline Quirke, Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph April 2-6 2013The 39 Steps (June 3-8 2013) The Woman in Black (June 10 -15 2013)For younger audience ...Dora the Explorer (April 12 -14)Horrible Histories (April 23-27)Spot’s Birthday Party (June 13-15)


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clubs and classes... 2367 (Banchory) Squadron - Air Training CorpsThe Air Training corps is a uniformed youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. For young people aged 13 and 17. www.2367sqn.org.uk Mon & Thur 7pm - 9.30pm McCombie Cadet Centre, Woodside Road, BanchoryAwanaA free childrens club (Nursery to P7) www.bcfchurch.org.uk Wed, 6.00 - 7.30pm Banchory Christian Fellowship Church, Burn of Bennie, Banchory Banchory & District Bridge ClubFor new people coming into the district, we can help with a bridge partner Tuesday, 6.50pm for 7pm start Burnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryBanchory & District Round TableFor men aged 18 - 45 yearswww.bad-rt.org Thursday, 7pm for 7.30pm Every 1st and 3rd Thursday, Banchory Lodge Hotel, BanchoryBanchory Boys Football Clubwww.banchoryboysclub.co.ukLast Sunday of the month, 7pm Caters for children from last year in nursery to P7 for Saturday training sessions from 10 - 11.30am at KGV Park Banchory and then for development and competitive teams from U8 to U19 levels Banchory British LegionBanchory Community Badminton ClubAll abilities and ages welcome, Friday, 10-11.30am, Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Cricket ClubCricket available from 8 years of age through to seniors Burnett Park, BanchoryBanchory East Badminton ClubFor age 14 years and upwards. Mon, 8-10pm, Banchory Academy Games HallBanchory Gymnastics ClubGirls from Primary 2 upwards. Waiting list in operation Tuesday , 3.30pm - 5pm Banchory Sports Centre Banchory SingersMeet during school term times. All ages welcome. www.pinebrae.co.uk/bs/Wed, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Lesser Town Hall 1 Kinneskie Lane, Banchory Banchory Sports Centre Banchory, AB315XPPhone: 01330 825269E: [email protected] St Ternan Football Clubwww.eteamz.com/banchorystternanTuesday, Thursday , 7 - 9pm Games on Saturday 1pm Milton Park, Crathes Banchory Stonehaven Athletic Club

For ages: 9 years to adultwww.banchorystonehavenac.co.ukMonday Mackie Academy, Slug Road Stonehaven, AB39 3DFBirse Community TrustExists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits.www.birsecommunitytrust.org.ukThe Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Birse Community TrustExists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits.www.birsecommunitytrust.org.ukThe Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Campfield & Glassel WRI1st Tuesday of each month. September - April, 7.30pm , Glassel Hall, Glassel City of Roses (Sweet Adelines International)Ladies singing group. Being able to read music an advantage but not necessarycityofroseschorus.co.uk Mon, 7.15-10.00pm Drumoak Church Hall, DrumoakCorse SWRITuesday, Evening , 3rd Tuesday of the monthCorse Hall, Corse, LumphananDeeside Childrens Music GroupFrom 9 - 15 years, Thursday, 4pm - 5.30pm In term time only, Aboyne Academy, AboyneDeeside Community TransportTwo community minibuses for hire by com-munity groups and non-profit groups. Both 17 seats and wheelchair adaptable.Charges are £1.00 per mile (as at July 2012), with a minimum invoice of £20.00.Deeside Gliding ClubInstruction available to all ages groups (subject to a minimum weight / height) in flying gliders. New members welcomewww.deesideglidingclub.co.ukDeeside Heritage SocietyDisabled access. Members and guests welcome. Tea and Coffee available.Third Wednesday of month, September to March, Bowling Club PavilionDeeside Musical SocietyWe cater for ages 16 years onwards, but depending on productions we also cater for children e.g. if we are performing a pan-tomime. Fees £40 per session, concessions £30. Monday, 7.30pm Aboyne Academy Community Centre Deeside OrchestraAny age from 16 years and upwards. http://www.deeside-orchestra.co.uk/Tuesday, 7.30-9.45pm

Victory Hall. Ballater Road AboyneDeeside Hillwalking ClubAn informal but active group, based around Banchory who focus on climbing munros and corbetts around Scotland. Minimum age 18 years We have a programme of events throughout the year, meeting approximately every 3rd weekendDeeside Rugby Football Club Membership is open to allGames played at Aboyne Green, Aboyne and Tillybrake Playing Fields, BanchoryDeeside School of DanceAll types of class and singing and drama from 3yrs to adult Rdsd.co.ukMon-Sat, Hill of Banchory South Banchory Deeside Youth Musical TheatreAge range 10 - 17 years. Theatre and mu-sicals group performing one show per year usually in March Thurs, 6.30 - 8.00pm Deeside Community CentreDeeside Steam & Vintage ClubPromotes the collection of steam and vintage machinery. Various events in the summer months from tractor runs to our annual rallyThe Deeside Village Hopper serviceis open to everyone!A scheduled service running Mon-Friday.Please call for details 013398 85222, or see: www.mid-deeside.org.uk.Deeside WritersFirst meeting free. £2 per meeting thereaf-ter. Annual membership £10www.deesidewriters.co.ukTuesday, 7.30pm 3rd Tuesday of the monthWoodend Barn, BanchoryDrumoak & Durris Playgroupbeehive.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=SiteHome&ID=5230Tuesday-Friday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am Crossroads Nursery, Slug Road, BanchoryDrumoak Durris Crathes Bowling ClubFees: Outdoor £50. Indoor £10, Juniors £12, Young Bowlers £25, Hats £1.50Hat nights / Afternoons Tues & Frid 7pm or Wed & Sat 2pm. All ages welcome. Bowling Pavilion, Off North Deeside Road, Drumoak Durris Junior Agricultural ClubFees - depends on the age. Ages 14-26 to compete in competitions Varies, Usually 7.30pm Kirkton Hall, Durris Durris SWRIDisabled access. Fees £12 per year.Monday , 7.30pm 2nd Monday of the monthKirkton Hall, Durris


DAWGS finds loving new homes for abandoned and unwanted dogs, and for those whose owners due to frailty or ill- health find they can no longer take care of them. We have given thousands of dogs a second chance over the last 15 years. We receive no statutory funding and rely on donations and legacies to fund our caring work. Recent legacies have helped fund emergency vet bills, emergency kennel care and animal behaviourists and trainers in special situations. Please help us give more dogs the chance to live out their lives in a safe and loving home through a donation or legacy. For more information contact:

6 Small HoldingsLang StrachtAberdeenTel 01224 208989 email: [email protected]

Scottish Charity Number: SCO22666

www.dawgs.co.uk

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clubs and classes... Finzean SWRIThursday, 7.30pm 3rd Thur of every month from Sept until April Finzean Hall, Finzean Fitness for the Over 50sMonday, 11am - 12.30pm Weekly, Sept to June, Victory Hall, AboyneFootstarsA fun football and fitness activity for boys and girls aged 2-6 years. Currently running sessions 7 days a week in Banchory, Stone-haven and Westhill www.footstars.co.ukFriends of Durris ForestsWe work closely with Forestry Commission Scotland to monitor the use, accessibility and state of Durris Forest and its outliers. www.friendsofdurrisforests.co.ukGirlguiding - Banchory3 Rainbow Units aged 5-7,4 Brownie Units aged 7-10 and 3 Guide Units aged 10-14 but due to Waiting Lists we would like to open further Units when we can get the Volunteer Leaderswww.girlguiding.org.ukBanchory Morris Men Telephone 01330 822320 Lively dancing with stick, bells, etc. (and not just English, we also do Scottish dances at Crathes Village Hall - 815pm on a Tuesday.Noahs ArkFrom Bumps to 3 years of age. Mums have opportunity for a coffee and a blether! Friday, 10am-12 West Church Hall, BanchoryRaemoir WRIFor any age, Tuesday, 7pm, Third Tuesday of the month, Dalvenie Gardens Resource Centre, Raemoir Lane, BanchoryRotary Club of Banchory TernanOpen to all rotarianswww.banchory-ternan-rotary.comWednesday, 6.15pm for 6.30pm The Burnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryRoyal Deeside 41 ClubFriday - First Friday each monthBurnett Arms Hotel, BanchoryRoyal Deeside Railway Preservation SocietyRailway restoration & working railway. All welcome www.deeside-railway.co.ukMon,Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun, Daytime Light and heavy volunteer work available Milton of Crathes Visitor Centre, CrathesSaltire Tae Kwon-do AcademiesAge specific programmes. Ninja Kidz (4-6 yrs), Dragon Warriors (7-9 yrs), Juniors (10 - 12 yrs), Youth/Seniors (13+yrs) and Korean Kickboxing www.saltiretkd.com/

Scottish Accordion Music GroupSunday, 2nd Sunday of monthKirkton Hall, DurrisSplat 0-5 s Music GroupChildren aged 0 - 5 years invited with carers. Fee: 50p per family. Disabled access and facilities Wednesday, 2pm - 3.15pm Term time only Drumoak Church HallTai Chi AberdeenshireFor information about classes, tuition for groups or individuals, view the website. Instructor member of Tai Chi Union for Great Britain www.taichiaberdeenshire.co.ukTake a SeatAdapted seated classes of Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong) for people who are unable to stand to exercise www.takeaseat.org.ukTarland Film ClubMonthly films chosen by you. BYO snacks/refreshments. Open to those aged over 18 years in the Tarland area. Held in the upstairs room at the MacRobert Hall. Email: [email protected], or telephone 07880 935803. Facebook under ‘Tarland film-group’.Tom-TomsSinging group for Mums and carers with little ones from birth to 4 years. Fees £2 per family per week. We run 2 sessions ; 10 - 10.30, then 10.30 - 11 am. After each session refresh-ments are available. This is a busy group and you are advised to call first. Banchory Ternan East Church Halls, Station Road, BanchoryDetails from www.banchoryeastchurch.orgTootersMusic classes for young children in 3 age groups, Tooter Tots 0 - 2, Tooters 2 - 5 & Toots P1 & P2. Activities include singing, games, movement and instrument activities. tootersonline.co.ukUpper Deeside Art SocietyAnnual fee of £18.00, individual workshop fee of £20.00. Talks cover a range of arts related subjects, while the workshops cater for a variety of mediums and subjects.www.udas.org.uk Friday, 2pm Monthly, also monthly Saturday workshopsAboyne Bowling ClubWhite Crane Tai ChiClasses in Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong). Established 2000www.takeaseat.org.uk 7pm Banchory classes held on a Monday,

Woodside PlaygroupFor children aged 2years 10 months to 4 years Daily, 9.30am-12 noon 12.45-3.15pm Burnett Park Pavilion, BanchoryScript to Screen & Stage Drama & Film classes for children of 7-12 years of age. Aboyne Class held in Victory Hall Thursday 4pm-6.30pmBanchory Classes held in Banchory Guide Hut 4pm -6pm & 6.15pm - 8.15pmTel:01339 886265 email: [email protected] Singers are a mixed voice Community Choir. Meet at the community centre at Banchory Academy Raemoir Road Banchory AB31 5TQ each Wednesday evening during school term time. 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. Further information about the choir can be found on www.banchorysingers.co.ukBanchory Senior Citizens ClubOur club meets at the Banchory Primary School Hall at 7.15pm on the first Tuesday of each month between September and June, we aim to provide an hour of musical entertainment we also arrange a summer outing and a Christmas party. If you are 60 years plus why not contact us for more information on either of the following numbers. 01330 - 822977 or 825495Strachan SWRILadies Over 50+ £16 annual fee. Meet every third Thursday of the month. 7.30pm at Strachan Village Hall - Sept to MayTel : 01330 850442 for further info.

List your classes for FREE... Update your listing with a contact number. New classes or amendments full listing highlighted in red. T: 01224 318561www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk


Winter Dog Care TipsWinter has now well and truly set in which can be an exciting time for us and our four legged companions. However, we should take a moment to ensure that we are doing everything possible to keep our dogs safe and healthy.

Consider the breed of your dog - some dogs like Siberian Huskies and Newfoundland’s are native to colder countries and have been bred for their thick coats which protect them from harsher climates and do not need anything else to protect them. Other breeds, particularly smaller, silky coated breeds such as the Yorkshire Terrier or Cocker Spaniel will require a dog coat to keep them warm and dry. Invest in a coat if you have an elderly dog.

Walking is an important part of your dogs day giving them the chance to exercise so try not to miss any walks. Staying visible will keep you and your dog safe so wear something reflective and highly visible. Flashing LED collars are available to help you see where your dog is at all times. Carrying a torch will help you find any lost dogs and your way home if it is dark.

After each walk make sure you towel dry your dog and give him a good brush to remove any dirt/debris and keep him free from matted hair. Tight matts are painful for dogs and normally occur in areas of movement e.g. in between the chest and front legs, in front of the hind legs and behind the ears so keep these areas well brushed. If the pavements have been gritted you may wish to wash his feet to remove the salt. There are boots specifically made for dogs if you find his feet are getting too cold or sore.

Avoid short haircuts at this time of year as a dog does need its coat for insulation. Some breeds are prone to the ‘snowball effect’ in deep snow so choose a length that keeps him warm but doesn’t gather too much snow.

Finally, ensure that Antifreeze is well out of reach of pets as it smells great but is extremely toxic to them.

W.A.G.S. dog grooming salon offers the latest techniques in clipping, scissoring and handstripping. Indulge your pet with our massaging Hydrobath and spa treatments.

Our brand new boutique features deluxe pet clothing and accessories from Puchi Petwear, Pet London and Oscar and Hooch. Your dog will be sure to love our selection of Bella's Homemade Treats!

Burn o' BennieBanchory AB31 5QA

Tel: 01330 822474

Thanks to Zara @ WAGS for the tips


An estimated 51,000 people living with heart and circulatory disease in Grampian region

Did you know that heart and circulatory disease is Scotland’s biggest killer? There are around 51,000 people in Grampian region living with it and it’s

responsible for the deaths of more than one in four men and women.

British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland is urging local people to get involved with Rock Up In Red on 1 February, in National Heart Month, to help raise vital funds for those living with heart and circulatory disease.

This year, National Heart Month raised over £1m across the UK to support the BHF’s life-saving work. In 2013 the BHF hopes to raise even more but

needs local people to Rock Up In Red and help raise funds.

Kathy McIlwain, local Fundraising Volunteer Manager, commented: “We are calling on local people to put on their best red items on 1 February and

encourage their colleagues, friends and family to do the same and help support the nation’s heart charity by getting involved and raising money.

It’s easy to organise a Rock Up In Red event and fun for everyone involved.”

Whether it’s painting your nails red, donning a red tie, some red socks or going all out and rocking a top to toe red outfit, BHF Scotland is urging

people across the country to organise a Rock Up In Red day with friends, families and colleagues to raise funds that will go directly towards vital

research, support and care for those suffering with heart and circulatory disease.

If you want to get involved with Rock Up in Red, simply encourage your colleagues, friends or pupils to rock up wearing something red and give

£2. Anything goes, as long as it’s red. A workplace, group or organisation can simply rock up wearing something red and give £2 – or schools can do

it for £1 per pupil.

As well as being the leading cause of death, more than 620,000 people in Scotland are living with heart and circulatory disease, many of whom

struggle with everyday tasks.

Rock Up In Red this February and make a heartfelt statement for your loved ones. To order your free fundraising pack, just go to bhf.org.uk/red or call the hotline on 0300 330 0645.

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Code: DG

Y o u r l u n c h o r d i n n e r f o o d b i l l , Mo n d a y t o T h u r s d a y i n January and February 2013 .

Voucher can be used once only, and only one voucher per table.-voucher cannot be exchanged for cash - Val id unt i l March 1st 2013

Old Skene Road, Kingswells, Aberdeen, AB15 8QATel. 01224 740318 Email. [email protected]

www.fourmile.co.uk

deeside - issue 17

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