ISSUE 3 - JUL Y 2013
INSIDE
island news
in&a
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wildlife Special Supplement
IS ONLINE
of the Hebrides
Discover for yourself the rich biodiversity of our islands
1Bioblitz st Annual ISLAND
Become a at the citizen scientist
The Class of 2013 - Page 18
Wildlife of the Hebrides
So what’s a bioblitz?
A bioblitz is an intense period record all the living species of biological surveying in an attempt to scientists, naturalists and within a designated area. Groups of volunteers conduct an intensive over a short, usually 24 field study hour, time. (def. Wikipedia).
You’re invited to join resident and visiting naturalists and local crofters in this spectacular part of South and record anything that grows or moves Uist to spot in the area birds,bees,bugs,butterflies. Moths,mammals.Flowe rs, fungi. On the shore,untangle the kelp forest and see what lives there.Spot whales and dolphins from the beach. Everything we find will be recorded and sent to Outer Hebrides Bio-logical Recording to add to the National
Biodiversity Network’s data-base.The records will be a snapshot in time for future scientists to use to help understand and preserve the richness of Uist’s western seaboard. The event starts at 10am on Saturday, finishes at 5pm on Sunday. Recording and happen throughout that time,including will overnight,with moth traps,an infra-red camera and bat detector.
NEWS & ADVERTISER
Howmore machair,South Uist Saturday July 27,Sunday July 28
You’re welcome to drop in at any time - children are especially welcome - and spend as long as looking and learning with the experts. you like If you’re a visitor with particular expertise,we’d love you to join in and share your knowledge.
Evening talk: ‘Watching out for whales and dolphins’ at Southend Community Hall, 7pm ●
There will be plenty of other
activities on site: Machair Life+ Howmore machair guided walk, Saturday and Sunday at noon; also stall with activities ● Low tide walks to spot creatures of the lower shore, with Lisa Woodin (see p IV) ● Dolphin and whale spotting sessions the beach with WDC Shorewatch. on Fun and games for kids. Meet at theWDC stall. ●
This project is supported
●
Badge-making and interactive games with Dr Evelyn Gray of Science on Your Doorstep
RSPB trailer, with staff on site to help you identify the birds around you
It’s all FREE! Refreshments kindly donated
food by Creagorry and Daliburgh Co-ops
by Scottish Natural Heritag e
July 2013
island news Edition 16
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& ADVERTISER
SOUTHERN ISLES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND IN CRISIS Resignation of Benbecula minister over gay clergy issue leaves one full-time minister in presbytery Rev Andrew Downie,Minister at Benbecula Church in Griminish has announced his decision to leave the Church of Scotland over its handling of the issue of gay clergy. At a recent general assembly meeting, the Church of Scotland decided to uphold their traditional doctrine on same sex relationships, but also give individual congregations the
option of appointing a minister in a civil partnership. It is this decision, which is yet to be fully ratified, which has caused division in the church. The congregation of Stornoway High Church has voted to leave the Church of Scotland over the handling of the gay ministers issue. Mr Downie has tendered his resignation and will leave his
Chief Executive Tagsa Uibhist seeks to appoint a Chief Executive to lead and promote strategic planning in our growing organisation. Location: Tagsa Uibhist Office, Benbecula Hours: Part-time East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, Western Isles HS7 5LA
Telephone: 01870 602111 Fax: 01870 603450
Tagsa Uibhist
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Manager seeking a challenge; an opportunity to apply your knowledge and experience in shaping the future direction of Tagsa Uibhist. Candidates should have a clear up to date understanding of the strategic issues affecting the social care sector. If you have the skills and experience to make a significant contribution in this position and would like further information please contact: Catherine MacKinnon at the address on the left hand side. Closing date : 26th July 2013 All positions are subject to PVG membership and satisfactory references. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome application from all sections of the community. Scottish Charity - No SCO29417 Tagsa Uibhist works in partnership with Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia
post at the end of August. Mr Downie said: “I took vows to abide by the rulings of the church, and I just can’t go along with those any more. “I’m now praying for an opportunity in a different denomination. “The church seems to be redefining sin, saying that there is no need for salvation and forgiveness.” Before taking up his position at Griminish, Mr Downie was the prison chaplain at Kilmarnock Prison, and before that he was chaplain at HMP Saughton in Edinburgh. He and his wife will now return to to live in Kilmarnock. The minister expressed his regret at leaving the islands, saying: “We will be sad to leave, we have become part of the church family and fellowship on the island, it will be huge wrench.” Mr Downie’s departure means that yet another island congregation is left without a permanent minister. Clachan Church, North Uist and the parishes of Barra, South Uist, North Harris and South Harris are being served by locums at present. Lochmaddy Church of Scotland is the only congregation in the Uist Presbytery (which includes Harris and the Southern Isles) with a permanent minister, currently Rev Donald Campbell.
Rev Andrew Downie.
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Marcel van Limbeek, recording engineer (Tori Amos and Seth Lakeman)
Course information · HNC Music · BA (Hons) Applied Music · MA Music and the Environment
· Gaelic Activity and Conversation classes · Ulpan
New residential and teaching accommodation at the Benbecula Music Hub: Isle of Benbecula Hotel, Creagorry
www.lews.uhi.ac.uk/music
Continued on page 3
THE FREE MONTHLY NEWSPAPER OF THE HEBRIDES
1953 2013
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Edition 01
March 2012
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Is the FREE MONTHLY NEWSPAPER OF THE HEBRIDES
In the June edition of Island News & Advertiser it was incorrectly stated that Donald John MacNeil was the new proprietor of the Burnside Chip Shop in Daliburgh, South Uist. The proprietor of the business is in fact Mr John Gray, t/a Burnside Chip Shop. IN&A apologises for this error.
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Fifth year pupils learned how to get a handle on their personal finances thanks to a Financial Awareness Training Day in Sgoil Lionacleit theatre last month. Organised by Include-Us, the CnES organisation which offers support to young islanders in employment and business start-ups, the day brought together representatives from Western Isles Credit Union, Citizens Advice and for the first time on the islands, the Stewart Ivory Foundation. Lynne MacMillan of Include-Us said: “We worked with Drew Livingstone, a financial education officer with the Stewart Ivory Foundation to provide a Financial Awareness Training Day for fifth year pupils at Sgoil Lionacleit and the Nicolson Institute. The aim of
CORRECTION
NEWSDESK
Design:
Money matters at Sgoil Lionacleit
Last month 12 strangers gathered in Leverburgh, Harris to await the first fair wind for St Kilda.
Drew Livingstone with Sgoil Lionacleit pupils
the day was to provide clear information on many different aspects of personal finance from budgeting to saving and how to stay debt-free. “Western Isles Credit Union provided information on the alternative banking option, where the members are at the heart of the organisation. “We would like young people to be smart about how they use their money and plan for the future.”
UIST BOAT CLUB’S LEARN TO SAIL WEEK way, July 8 - 13, Taigh Chearsabhagh slip Lochmaddy ● Day and evening sessions ● All ages over 9 years welcome 2, ● Taster sessions, RYSA Stage 1 and Adult level certificates ● Bookin essential. Contact Peter Keiller 10876 500222/ 07909 996370
●
(leave message) email: pwkeiller@gmail.com
They are a volunteer party working on a series of conservation projects for the National Trust for Scotland on Hirta. They are now rebuilding dykes
and cleits, doing turf repairs to cleit roofs, covering the shop, hosting Hebridean Princess visitors and eating plenty of cake. Follow their progress in a blog posted daily (technology permitting) by their leader Donald Paterson at stkildaworkparty. blogspot.co.uk
Lochmaddy SWRI summer exhibition and sale Tuesday July 9 to Saturd
ay July 20
Lochmaddy Scho ol Tuesday to Saturd ay (closed Sunday, M each week 11am - 4pm onday) A range of craft ite ms and produce w ill be on sale
We’ve moved! Island News & Advertiser has moved into East Camp, Balivanich Please note our new address and telephone number: Room 7, East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula HS7 5LA
Tel: 01870 602151
ON THE IN&A WEBSITE ●
How Sgoil Lionacleit pupils turned tenners into hundreds Colin MacLeod’s epic swim across the Sounds of Barra and Harris ● Master Mariner Eilidh Smith of Point, Lewis, shares her tales of the ocean ●
Uist schoolchildren learn firefighting ● Cadet training camp in Benbecula ● Uist Wool mill machinery installation ●
Keep an eye on islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk each day for rolling coverage of local news and community events
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Fresh ground coffee Speciality tea Light lunches Home Baking Takeaway
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July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
Continued from page 3
Mr Campbell said:“The Lochmaddy church session does not agree with the assembly decision. “It easier for aid-giving (financially selfsufficient) churches like the High Church in Stornoway to think about leaving the Kirk, for aidreceiving (financially dependent) churches like all those in South Uist it is more difficult. “All church sessions are now holding meetings to discuss the way forward. It is difficult to see where we go from here.” Mr Campbell added:
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decision was made and the debate was calm. “A majority of 60 representatives voted in favour of upholding the traditional view and also allowing each congregation to choose. “The matter still has to be put to each individual presbytery for approval, and that is still some way off. “If the presbyteries vote in favour, then congregations who choose to do so could select a gay minister. “I think people are making decisions precipitously, and people are talking up a crisis that doesn’t exist. “I understand the breadth of views on the issue, some see it as a challenge to scriptural belief and authority.” A spokeswoman for the Church of Scotland said: “The Church of Scotland’s Ministries Council is in discussion with the Presbytery clerk of Uist to find ways to support congregations and Church of Scotland members in that area.”
Can you even have a presbytery with only one active minister?
Retired minister Rev Jackie Petrie provides cover for the Church of Scotland in Barra. She feels that the current responses to the issue of gay clergy are being made with too much haste. Ms Petrie said: “I was at the assembly when the
Rev Donald Campbell.
members of a team proposing to set Dispensing Two up a dispensing pharmacy in Balivanich at a Benbecula Community Council pharmacy spoke meeting last month to outline their plans. proposal discussed in Benbecula
space currently occupied by Colin Campbell sports shop adjoining Balivanich Post Office. The community council meeting was attended by GPs, the practice manager, nurses and dispensers from the surgery at Griminish, Benbecula. If NHS Western Isles approved the dispensing pharmacy, the GP practice would lose its dispensing contract with prescription dispensing and other services transferred to the proposed pharmacy. Pharmacist Mohammed Shabbir and Ms Munro said the pharmacy would not just pharmacy manager Angie Munro be a place to go to collect prescriptions, but represented Local Pharmacies Ltd,which is would offer a range of other public health undertaking the formal application services such as Minor Ailments, Smoking process with NHS Western Isles to Cessation, diabetes, cholesterol,and blood establish a dispensing pharmacy in pressure monitoring. There would be a private Balivanich. consultation area in the pharmacy. Repeat The company is negotiating to take over the prescriptions would be handled by the pharmacy and a home delivery service would ensure delivery of medication to those unable to collect them. Opening hours would be 9 to 6, Monday to Saturday with two pharmacists enabling full cover at all times, she said. The proposed pharmacy would not affect current arrangements in Lochmaddy or Daliburgh. Ms Munro said dispensing staff at Griminish would be able to apply for dispenser jobs at the new pharmacy. Mr Shabbir said: “A local dispensing pharmacy is very beneficial to the Live Music Thurs - Sun community, a service here that people haven’t had Gaelic Quiz Night before. It is more than a dispensing service. No lunch- dinner- coffee- drinks appointments are necessary, you don’t have to go to your GP for small ailments. It’s a free Open 11.45 am to 11.45pm 1202 Argyle Street, Glasgow service.” Dr Kate Dawson said the
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proposed pharmacy would mean the loss of two full time dispensing posts. She said: “In the worse case scenario, we could be forced to drop a partner, withdraw from our hospital involvement and lose patients. The practice has one GP close to retirement and he would probably not be replaced. “The dispensing part of our business is a large part of our turnover, which helps support the practice overall and make it viable. “There is an overall Government policy which supports opening independent pharmacies. “For people living in Balivanich a chemist and pharmacy may be a good thing, for patients who get their prescriptions from our surgery, it may be an extra inconvenience.” The community council, chaired by Neil Campbell, agreed that there were pros and cons to the proposed pharmacy. Gail Robertson of Outer Hebrides Commerce Group said: “The community needs to be informed of all the issues.I am arranging meetings with all interested parties to work out what the implications might be, including the health board, GPs and the pharmacists. “An independent chemist shop would possibly be a good thing, but people need to know all the facts before they can decide.”
Donald Nicholson, Group Training Officer will be visiting the Southern Isles on the 1st and 2nd of July. If you are a company paying CITB levy and you would like to know more about the training opportunities the Group offers to members, please contact on 07788 963497 or wic.traininggroup@gmail.com.
College House, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA Tel: 01870 602228 Fax: 01870 602865
Looking for a property to buy, sell or rent..... Looking to buy or sell land..... Look no further than your local estate agency Visit our new website for latest property listings www.uistproperty.co.uk
Tagsa Uibhist
Local Pharmacies’ proposal will lead to a hearing with NHS Western Isles in the coming months, after which the health board will announce its decision.The pharmacy team promised further public consultation.
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Telephone: 01870 602111 E-Mail: tagsa.uibhist@care4free.net Call in: Office open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday. East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, Western Isles HS7 5LA
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
St Valery commemorations in Benbecula Cadets, Army personnel, clergy and members of the public gathered on Thursday 13 June at Griminish War Memorial in Benbecula for the annual commemoration of the Battle of St Valery en Caux. A large number of men from the Western Isles took part in the battle, and many were captured as prisoners of war, suffering greatly at the hands of the enemy. At the start of the simple ceremony, Lt Tim Martin of the Western Isles Army Cadet Force said: “We should remember just how young many of the men were
Lance Corporal Callum Binnie played the pipes.
who fought at the battle at St Valery, many of them were not much older than the cadets gathered here today.” Fr Ross Crichton of St Mary’s Benbecula, Reverend Fraser Stewart from 1st Highlander Army Cadets and Rev Andrew Downie of Benbecula Church of Scotland, Griminish addressed those gathered, to remember those who had given their lives at the battle.
Corporal Darren Beaton laid a wreath at the memorial.
Corporal Darren Beaton of the Benbecula cadet detachment laid a wreath at the memorial. Lance Corporal Callum Binnie played the pipes, followed by Black Watch veteran piper Norman Johnson. In the aftermath of the Dunkirk evacuations during World War 2, the 51st Highland Division set out to recapture Abbeville bridge on the River Somme.
Bad planning meant that the attack on June 4 1940 led to heavy losses for the Allies. A German counter attack trapped the 51st Highland Division in the coastal town of St Valery en Caux. As a result, most of the soldiers were taken as prisoners of war and were forced to carry out slave labour for the rest of the conflict - many did not return.
Leaky new windows leave Benbecula tenants in the cold Social housing provider Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP) has come under fire in Benbecula after window replacements left tenants with huge heating bills and draughty houses. “I am spending a large are 20 tenants known to us that Mears Group were engaged by HHP to carry out window proportion of my income on are still dissatisfied with their heating bills and I just can’t new windows. replacement works in Uist. “HHP has been involved in The work was completed in afford it anymore, so I’m discussions with Mears Group March 2012 and Mears moving to a private let.” A spokesperson for Mears for a number of months, to worked on approximately 120 houses fitting windows and Group said: “The windows resolve this issue. These that we installed were discussions are still ongoing. doors. “We are have maintained Tenants have reported that specified by HHP. “HHP received a sample regular contact with the the new windows were poorly fitted, with large gaps between window which was approved tenants that are affected by before the work began and this issue. the frames and the windows. “HHP acknowledges that it In some cases, the fitting was each window was inspected so poor that the windows were and signed off by a clerk of is disappointing to have experienced difficulties with not even securely in place and works representing HHP. “In addition to this we were new windows and we moved with only a slight push. on customer working towards resolving Residents say their assessed previously wind and satisfaction rates and we this problem as soon as soundproof homes are now scored an extremely high possible. “We will continue to liaise subject to excessive wind noise 95%.” John Alick Macquarrie of with our tenants and keep and draughts. Heating bills have increased HHP Benbecula said: “There them advised.” accordingly, leaving some tenants in state of fuel poverty. Catriona Doyle, 36, works as a cleaner at Balivanich school. She has lived for the past four years at 15 Winfield Way in Balivanich with her three children, right next door to the Hebridean Housing Partnership’s offices. Now she is being forced to move because her energy bills have soared. Catriona said: “They fitted the wrong vents to the top of the windows, the catches and hinges don’t work properly. “There is a draught through the windows and it’s like a gale coming through the front door.
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
A new dawn for seaweed drying on North Uist The age-old island tradition of seaweed gathering for fertiliser and alginates is about to make a comeback in North Uist, with environmental credentials fit for the 21st century. The former MacIain quarry is the site of a new seaweed drying and milling operation, using seaweed harvested from within a radius of 14 miles, and biomass grown only six miles from the production site. The fully integrated operation is thought to be unique in the UK. The plan was thought of some years ago by Donald Johnson and the project has been developed by his two sons Raghnall and Angus. Now Uist Asco Ltd (named after the seaweed Ascophyllum) is on the threshold of production, with a biomass boiler currently being installed in the large quarry building, and more plant due to arrive over the next few weeks, including a seaweed drying plant, hot water to air heat exchanger, milling, weighing and packaging equipment, a powerful forestry tractor and wood chipping machine. The biomass boiler has a heating capacity of 999kw and will burn timber from the MacIain forests, which extend over some 720 ha of land on North Uist. The forests conform to UK standards of environmental sensitivity and sustainability, and the oldest areas are being harvested and replanted for biomass production. The seaweed will be harvested by local, self-employed cutters.
Timber! Fuel for the drier is close at hand A neat pile of logs and the sound of chainsaw’s buzz indicate that Angus Johnson is not too far away. Walking into the forest near Sollas where the Johnsons are felling trees, accompanied by Angus’s brother Raghnall, we step through bogs and mossy ground to reach the clearing.
Angus Johnson
Channels of trees have been cut into the forest to provide access, and a forest cat vehicle sits waiting to be filled with logs. Trees marked with a spot will be felled as part of a sustainable management programme. Taking a break from felling, Angus says:“These trees have been growing for the best part of 20 years. We are planting and replacing the trees that we remove, in order to maintain the stock. Angus demonstrates the technique for cutting down a tree – the lower branches are lopped off and any remaining twigs are soon removed.
Raghnall MacIain.
Raghnall MacIain said: “A number of cutters have come forward, some quite senior in age, but who cut seaweed for Kelco Ltd,who at one time had three drying factories in the Western Isles, but closed down in the 1980s.The cutters are keen to work again, and to pass their skills on to new cutters, who may be local fisherman in need of seasonal work, for example. We anticipate creating jobs for up to 15 selfemployed, seasonal cutters.” Mr MacIain said if clients required the seaweed to be washed, water would come at pressure from a loch above the site into a large agitation tank. He said: “Where possible the washed seaweed will be laid out to dry on the concrete floor of the yard for an hour or two, saving fuel resources when possible.” The biomass boiler will heat the drying plant, producing dried seaweed
New jobs, old skills
at a rate of 1.5 tonnes per hour. The heat exchanger produces a product without the discolouration of combustion products that are seen when drying it with a direct flame. The dried seaweed will then be milled to a meal of any size, as specified by customers. Even the fine dust extracted by vacuum cyclones from the finished product can be sold as a product, or used as fertiliser in the MacIain forests. The milled seaweed will be sold as fertiliser; an ingredient in animal food; and as a source of alginates, chemicals and even biomass for biofuel and oils. Uist Asco has three directors and has recently taken on four new employees who now number five in total. Full production is anticipated by September.
A flat cut is made half way through the base, and another down at an angle to form a triangular hole and a clear direction for the tree to fall. Another quick buzz around the other side and the tree soon hits the forest floor. The logs then travel just a short distance to the seaweed processing plant nearby.
Donald John MacLeod.
One of the benefits of the new seaweed processing plant is the creation of jobs in North Uist. It will mean reviving traditional skills that have not been used for a long time, and drawing upon the knowledge of former seaweed gatherers. One of those set to get involved is crofter Donald John MacLeod, 70, of Hogh Beag, Loch Portain. Donald previously harvested seaweed for the last processing plant at Sponish near Lochmaddy, until the facility closed in 1984. And he is set to put his skills and knowledge to use once again to provide the raw materials for the Uist Asco plant. Donald said: “This is the best news for North Uist for quite a long while, they are creating jobs, that’s what the place needs.
“There used to be five of us working in Lochportain providing seaweed for Sponish when it was running, it fitted well with other crofting work because you would only harvest on the three days before and the three days after high tide, it was sort of one week on one week off. “You would start when the tide is half way to the low ebb, then work all the way until the low tide. “You would lay out about eight fathoms of rope and turn the seaweed around the rope, then cut the seaweed on the rising tide and tie the ends of the rope together. “Four of these loops would give about five or six tons of seaweed, which is then towed to the landing point on the shore, which could be two miles away.
“You would need to know the winds and the tides to be able to get it in safely, or you might leave the load out in the water until the winds were more favourable.” Donald John’s parents ran the family croft at Hogh Beag until 1974, while he was working at John Brown’s shipyard in Clydebank near Glasgow. Mr Macleod decided to return to North Uist and help to work the croft. He now has around fifty sheep and six laying hens. Mr MacLeod remembers the biggest haul of seaweed from the old days at Sponish. He said: “There was one guy who managed to harvest 15 tons one day and 16 tons the next. “You would need to start work very early on the tide to manage that.”
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Bùth Bharraigh tills ringing Barra’s new community shop for local producers has been bringing in sales of more than £1000 a week since it launched two months ago.
Bùth Bharraigh, based in Dolphin Cottage, Castlebay is a sales point for local producers bringing high quality local produce including food, crafts and photography to a central point in the community. Run as a social enterprise, Bùth Bharraigh has found many followers on its
Facebook page, and this has even prompted sales from Australia. The shop also sells produce from other nearby islands, for example Hebridean Sea Salt, Isle of Mull Cheese, Skye Chocolate and products requested by residents that are not sold in any other outlets in Barra. Project manager Sarah Maclean said: “From very small beginnings last year we have developed into a vibrant community shop stocked by over fifty local producers. “We are extremely pleased with what we have been able to achieve in a short space of time and we are very grateful for all the support we have received from all over the world. However, this is just the beginning and we have a long way to go to reach our full potential.
Oban - Barra air route proposal A new air route between Barra and Oban has been proposed as a way of increasing visitor numbers and commerce to the islands. Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS) has gathering opinion from the public on the issue via an online survey. The survey is part of a review of air services being undertaken by consultants Northpoint Aviation Services to assess the potential to develop air services using available aircraft capacity. Other routes under consideration are Oban to Glasgow and Oban to Campbeltown. A spokesman for Argyll and Bute council, who operate Oban airport said: “There are strong links between Barra and Oban that have been fostered by the ferry service to the island. “With shorter journey times by plane it would be possible for day trips to Oban from Barra and also for visitors from the tourism centre of Oban and district to enjoy short trips to Barra.”
Online gambling debt issues increasing problem on the isles “It’s what we do on a Friday night. We can’t afford a babysitter and a night out, so at least this way we have a bit of fun.” Local online bingo fan. The islands aren’t immune from the problems which come from out-of control online gambling, according to Western Isles Citizens Advice Service (WICAS) The organisation has noted a steady increase in debts stemming from online gambling, in the context of an industry which is now worth close to £2bn in the UK. A spokesperson from WICAS said: “When problems develop with online-gambling, the signs are often hidden at first and may not surface until credit card bills and overdrafts become unmanageable. Players may find they have difficulty paying regular household bills and can be in danger of losing their home. However, in our experience, people in debt always have options and anyone coming to the CAB with debt will get help to look at their options regardless of how the debt arose in the first place.” One online gambler spending up to £300 per week said: “ Internet gambling is so easy, it’s there 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All you need is a credit card. It feels as if you’re playing with numbers, not money.” This individual ended up with a broken marriage and debts of over £20,000. WICAS has issued advice from the Responsible Gambling Trust (www.gambleaware.co.uk) for anyone who feels they may have an online gambling habit which is getting out of control. Know when to stop. Decide in advance how often you will play, how much money and time you will spend, and when to stop. Sometimes the best decision may be not to gamble at all. Do it for fun. Accept that very few people win in the long run. Gambling companies are in business to make profits and the products that they offer can include a built-in advantage (“the house edge”) for the operator. Set aside the cash. Gamble only with money you have set aside for leisure – and never attempt to ‘win back’ what you have lost. Use player protection tools. There are tools in the ‘My Account’ area on most websites where you can restrict how much you can gamble, just in case you lose track. When gambling habits become difficult to manage there are websites where impartial advice is available such as www.gamcare.org.uk. Gamblers Anonymous Scotland have a website www.gascotland.org and a 24 hour helpline 0370 050 8881. Help with debt is available from National Debtline 0808 808 4000 or from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. Advice from the Citizens Advice Service is always free, impartial and completely confidential. See The Advertiser, p 27 for local Citizens Advice contact details.
“Every £1 brought into the shop equates to £2.59 to the local economy so a shop like this is extremely important to the islands of Barra and Vatersay. It provides local producers an outlet and opportunities to develop their crofts or hobbies. Eighty per cent of the sales price of the locally produced items goes back to the producers.” To keep the overheads down the shop is completely staffed by volunteers. Ms Maclean said: “There are other volunteering opportunities including communications, finance and maintenance.” She went on: “Our next aim is to be granted a long-term lease on a building from CnES. This will allow us to continue trading and develop the business to continue to provide an excellent service for local producers and customers.” The shop is now open seven days a week instead of just four.
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
Sunny side up for new South Uist egg packing unit Billy Barker of Lochboisdale Packing Station.
A new venture in South Uist has seen egg grading and packing underway in Lochboisdale for the first time since the 1960s.
One of the first recipients of the new Hebridean eggs was the Lochboisdale Internet Coffee Shop and Post Office. Customers have commented on the quality and colour of cakes made using the new eggs. Proprietor Anne MacLellan said:“We took two dozen to start with, we’ll be using them in the baking and for breakfasts.
Anne MacLellan is happy with the quality of the eggs for her baking.
“The eggs work really well in cakes, I made a Raspberry Bakewell slice and it sold really well. “A customer who knows about baking commented on the bright colour of the cake, she could tell that the eggs were good quality.
Lochboisdale Amenity Trust has opened Lochboisdale Packing Station Ltd in the village supplied by local egg producers. Producers throughout the Southern Isles are being supported to keep hens both for sale and to the station. Free-range eggs, more than 400 a day, supplied by local producers will be checked and packaged before being marketed to hotels, cafes and supermarkets. Project leader Billy Barker is keen to see fresh local produce available for people to buy, rather than mass market eggs. Mr Barker said: “This is a high quality product, if you crack a regular egg and a Hebridean one you can see the difference. “Supermarket eggs are often mass produced in Poland, the shelf life is 28 days from hatching. ‘So the egg you buy might have travelled all the way from Europe and already be old and close to the end of its freshness.” As well as providing top quality fresh local eggs, the project has animal welfare as a guiding principle. The eggs currently come from three local producers, who have a total of 500 hens between them. All producers are checked and certified by the Department for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. And each producer is assigned a code that is then printed on their eggs at the packing station, making them fully traceable. Mr Barker said: “Even hens which are certified as ‘free range’ can often live in pretty poor conditions. “They can have their beaks removed and their wings clipped, its not nice. “Our Hebridean eggs are all raised on crofts, with full access to the outdoors.”
“It’s good to have a supply of locally-produced free range eggs. “Tourists and local people appreciate having good quality free range eggs.”
Jackie Warner scatters sweetcorn from a can as a treat for her 20 hens and they happily gobble up the morsels. She is one of three producers currently supplying eggs to the packing project.
Jackie Warner is one of the egg producers to the project.
Beside her home at Ardivachar, Iochdar Jackie has a large fenced-in run where the hens can wander freely.
They have a hen house for shelter, and even their own gym in the form of tyres to play in. Having been around animals all her life, Jackie enjoys keeping the birds, as she explained: “I find them calming, they are fascinating to watch and they are very friendly. “We used to keep 50 chickens ourselves,and I was planning on getting some hens anyway, so it was an easy decision to get involved with the project.” The packing project supplies producers with the hens and the feed. And, until the hens are producing large enough eggs for sale, Jackie can keep the produce and use it for her own kitchen.
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NEW BUSINESSES We deal with many new businesses and can offer advice at what is an anxious but exciting time. We can help with business plans and cash flow projections and liaise with banks to help with initial finance. Many of our existing clients have been with us since day one and we have helped them through the initial start up problems, growth and consolidating a long term successful business. We offer a book-keeping package for businesses
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Ivan MacDonald Son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend. 14.11.1979 - 9.6.2013
A tribute by his friends and family
Ivan with his nieces.
Ivan was born at Daliburgh Hospital on 14.11.79 He studied Rural Business Management at the Scottish Agricultural College in Aberdeen where he achieved a first class Honours Degree and won the best student of the year for his thesis “Optimum Feeding of the Ewe in North Uist”. He then went on to do a “world tour” – going to USA, Australia – where he accompanied the didgeridoo on his pipes, and New Zealand – where he joined a shearing gang and learnt to work extremely hard. While there he tried bungee jumping and sky diving.
Homemade bagpipes made by Ivan from a lambs milk bag and fairy liquid bottles (the least noisy set he ever had!).
He then returned to Uist where he worked on the family croft for ten years before he took over the business and built his own house. During this time he spent six weeks in Romania with his good friends as a piping film star in the film Joyeux Noel. Ivan was a happy and contented man who achieved a lot in his 33 years.
These family memories were read to 1,000 mourners at Ivan’s funeral on Saturday, July 15. Having no computer or television at that time the children, their cousins and friends enjoyed activities such as hurtling down a hill on a cart made from a fish box and fishing floats, zipping down a homemade flying fox, bouncing on beachcombed floats – one named the black pudding because of its shape, another named the orange jelly. They enjoyed looking for birds nests, cockling, making mud pies at the peats and the list is endless… The favourite day of the year for all the children was the Eaval shearing and as the time drew near the children would ask “When will it be?” Alaistair would reply “Nuair a thig a chuileag bhuidhe” (“when the yellow fly comes”). Annie sent out food for the day, for all the men and family, making sure to enclose Ivan’s favourite – a sultana cake. Then she enjoyed her only day off of the year! Happy days! Happy family. Happy life! Ivan the musician Music featured large in Ivan’s life from a young age and Ivan became a lynchpin of the musical life of his native islands. A wonderful musician and piper, Ivan shared his passion for the musical traditions of the islands through performing and teaching and he supported musically many individuals and organisations in Uist. Ivan began piping at a young age, receiving coaching from local instructor Donald Bàn and playing in the Uist Pipe Band. When the Ceòlas music festival began in the late 90s, Ivan became one of the festival’s loyal attendees and central characters. Here he was introduced to the small pipes which would be his instrument of choice for session environments. Ivan loved a good session, and was often the life and soul of the party and the friendships he formed during Ceòlas weeks would last throughout his lifetime. Latterly Ivan was on the board of directors for Ceòlas a role which he took
seriously, doing everything he could to support the festival all year round. Each year, the day prior to the festival, he would drive all the chairs for the Ceòlas concert up to South Uist in his horse box. The morning after the festival, when others were feeling the effects of staying up late playing music, Ivan would load the chairs back into the horse box whilst telling stories of the weeks craic, of which - as long as Ivan was around - there was plenty. Ivan continued his music studies, enrolling on the diploma in Music and Gaelic at Lews Castle College with a where he studied piping with Iain MacDonald. Ivan became Pipe Major for the Uist Pipe Band and was noted for his dedication to the role, which he carried out with humour and enthusiasm. Ivan spent a lot of time poring over repertoire, concerned that the band’s material was suitably connected to Uist and his sets featured many Gaelic airs. He was a patient teacher who delivered the classes every Thursday evening in term time, sitting around the table at the Dark Island hotel, drilling pieces by ear (and with the music) and singing canntaireachd. Ivan loved a good adventure and brokered many performance trips away with the pipe band. Tours around Lewis for the Hebrides Tattoo and Ireland were highlights fondly remembered by his bandmates. As a solo performer, Ivan had a style, which was deeply informed by Gaelic language phrasing. At the Ceòlas piping concert last year his performances were widely lauded as highly musical and solid. His recent success as winner of the Flora MacDonald Piping Competition for the second time was a measure of his standing in the piping world. Ivan successfully managed to juggle his two passions, crofting and music, and became much in demand to play for weddings and dances. Over the recent winters Ivan had collected button accordions and was making great strides and developing his versatility as a dance band performer. He had also bought a guitar and had plans to start singing the Uist song repertoire. He was passionate about the culture of his native Uist and
inspired the same feelings in those around him-whether they were from the Hebrides or from another part of the world. He will be sorely missed.
Anna-Wendy Stevenson Ivan the crofter Life on a croft in North Uist will never be easy or lucrative but that was the life Ivan chose. He left Aberdeen University with a first class honours degree and could have walked into many well paid and comfortable posts but Ivan turned them all down to face a life of hard work and little return to work on the family croft at Croismoraig and the hills of Eval and Biurabhal. I spent many days with Ivan and his family and friends on these hills gathering and shearing and dipping and all the other tasks associated with sheep. These were often long and tiring and sometimes difficult days dealing with blackface sheep and their unpredictable and frustrating habits but they were some of the happiest days of my life. And they were happy because of the people who were there and Ivan was one of them. No matter what difficulties we met, and we met plenty of them, Ivan retained his cheerful happy nature and I envied him for that nature. On the crofts at Croismoraig and Baleshare he built up the stock of cattle and sheep and the buildings and the machinery and the handling facilities which nowadays are so necessary for the large temperamental cattle we have now. In spite of the time needed to cope with all the tasks necessary on a busy croft Ivan found time to help with many of the crofting organisations in the Uists. He was a member of the North Uist Agricultural Society and played a very full part on that committee. He was also involved with the Scottish Crofting Foundation and was active in the local townships grazings committee. He will be sadly missed in all these places and our lives will never be quite the same again.
John MacDonald, Sidinish
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
From
Researcher Seeks war evacuees and boarded-out children, and new migrants to the isles My name is Cassie Smith-Christmas and I am
anyone who had close relations (i.e. a sibling)
a research fellow at Lews Castle College UHI.
to a boarded-out child or evacuee.
I am involved in a project looking at
If you would possibly be interested in talking
migration to Gaelic - speaking communities,
to me about your experiences,
and I would be very interested to speak to
please contact me at
anyone who was a boarded-out child or an
Cassie.SmithChristmas@uhi.ac.uk or
evacuee to the islands during the war, or to
01851770370 or 07745384119.
I am also looking at more recent migration to this area, so if you have moved to the Western Isles from elsewhere and lived here for more than 6 months, it would be great if you could participate in this short survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XJVLK6R And, you’ll be entered in a drawing to win one of two £50 Amazon vouchers for participating in the survey!
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT MONK Anne, Sorcha, Ciorstaidh, Katie and family would like to thank everyone for their kindness, support and prayers
following the very sad loss of Angus. Thanks to all who travelled from near and far to pay their respects.
ACCOMMODATION To WINDOW CLEANER
9
Find your local services in our new Business Directory. TURN TO PAGE 27
Be part of it. Tel: 01870 602151 email: ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.com
Old Balivanich school may continue as education venue
The former Balivanich school.
Lews Castle College UHI is in talks with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar about leasing the former Balivanich primary school in Benbecula to use as studio and teaching space. The school has lain empty since it was closed in 2005 following tidal flooding during the hurricane. UHI currently operates music courses in Benbecula College campus, and runs art courses at Taigh Chearsabhagh in Lochmaddy, North Uist. Students can pursue both disciplines to degree level through the University. Principal Iain MacMillan said: “We have a need for more space for art and music in the Uists and are considering how we can do it. “The school is in good condition, but it will cost to make it habitable.
“We are considering the school as an option.” NHS Western Isles is also considering using the school as a store for occupational therapy equipment, possibly on the basis of a sub-lease from UHI. A spokeswoman for NHS WI said: “Discussions with Comhairle colleagues are underway, with regard to possible locations for a community equipment store in the Uists. The school site is one of the locations under consideration.” Another site under consideration by UHI to provide more space for its needs is the former Lochmaddy Hospital in North Uist. Mr MacMillan said: “I am aware that there are proposals to develop the old Lochmaddy Hospital site and there is a possibility that these proposals may provide part of the solution.”
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Gàidhlig/Gaelic Gaidhlig/Gaelic Cuirm Rìoghail shònraichte gus meal-a-naidheachd a chur air Sabhal Mòr Ostaig OGE Chaidh cuirm-fàilteachaidh shònraichte a chumail ann an Lùchairt Holyrood ann an Dùn Èideann an tseachdain sa chaidh far an tàinig a Mhòrachd Rìoghail am Prionnsa Teàrlach, neo Diùc Baile Bhòid mar as ainm dha ann an Alba, agus luchd-obrach is càirdean Sabhal Mòr Ostaig OGE cruinn còmhla gus an 40mh ceann-bliadhna aig a’ cholaiste a chomharrachadh. Tha an Diùc air a bhith na Neach-taice don cholaiste fad 28 bliadhna agus thug e cuireadh do Shabhal Mòr Ostaig agus aoighean sònraichte eile a thighinn gu Lùchairt Holyrood airson na bliadhna eachdraidheil seo don cholaiste a chomharrachadh. Am measg nan daoine a bha an làthair, bha Rùnaire an Fhoghlaim Mìcheal Russell bho Riaghaltas na h-Alba, Cathraiche Comhairle Maoineachaidh na h-Alba, John McClelland agus Lucilla, bantrach Sir Iain Noble, fear a bha gu mòr air cùl stèidheachadh na colaiste. Rinn an Diùc moladh air obair an t-Sabhail Mhòir agus chuir e meal-a-naidheachd air a’ cholaiste agus gach neach a bha an sàs ann an soirbheachadh an ionaid fhoghlaim Ghàidhlig.
Prince Charles meets Christine Mackenzie, PA to SMO principal
A’ bruidhinn às dèidh làimhe, thuirt Prionnsapal Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, an t-Ollamh Boyd Robasdan:“Tha mòran chruinnichidhean is thachartasan againn tron bhliadhna airson 40mh bliadhna na Colaiste a chomharrachadh ach bha am fear seo buileach sònraichte.
HRH The Prince of Wales meets Allan Campbell, a former SMO Trustee.
Bhuilich a Mhòrachd Rìoghail urram mòr air an t-Sabhal le bhith a’ cur cuirm dhe leithid air dòigh ann an ionad cho eachdraidheil agus cho eireachdail agus chuir e an cèill na òraid an spèis a th’aige dhan obair a tha a’ Cholaiste a’ dèanamh às leth a’ chànain. Bhruidhinn an Diùc
The Prince with Sheriff Roddy John MacLeod, chairman of the SMO Board.
ris gach neach a bha air aoigheachd agus nochd e ùidh anns na ceanglaichean a bh’ aca ris an tSabhal.” Thuirt Donaidh Rothach,An Stiùiriche aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig airson Leasachaidh,Tionalairgid agus nan Ealain:“Tha Sabhal Mòr Ostaig air clach-mhìle shònraichte a ruighinn nar neachdraidh agus bha an Diùc mar Neach-taice dhan cholaiste gu mòr airson sin a chomharrachadh còmhla rinn.Tha e air a bhith air leth taiceil dha Sabhal Mòr Ostaig fad iomadach bliadhna agus the dealas aige airson mion-chànanan bho air feadh an t-saoghail agus airson an obair a tha ga dhèanamh gus an gleidheadh, an neartachadh agus an leasachadh. Bidh an Diùc a’ faighinn fiosrachadh gu cunbhalach air an adhartas a bhios sinn a’ dèanamh agus tha sinn gu mòr na chomain airson an ùidh a th’ aige nar n-obair agus an taic a bhios e a’ toirt dhuinn.”
HOLYROOD PALACE HOSTS SPECIAL 40th ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF SABHAL MÒR OSTAIG UHI HRH The Prince of Wales has been the college’s patron for 28 years and he invited Sabhal Mòr Ostaig staff, friends and associates to join him in commemorating this historic milestone for the college. Tha ar duilleag cunbhalach dà-chànanach Gàidhling ’s Beurla air a thoirt thugaibh le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig Our regular Gaelic-English page is brought to you with the assistance of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
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July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
11
The crofting training that we have ely been able to provide has been extrem popular and well attended. Patrick Krause
Crofting Training opportunities for crofters and new entrants in Barra and Uist A series of courses in modern crofting skills will become available from next month in Uist and Barra. They will range from two day intensive entry level courses to a series of up to six practical day-long sessions. The courses are organised by the Scottish Crofting Federation and will run throughout the crofting counties in the autumn and winter months. SCF training officers Tina Hartley and Lucy Beattie will administer the courses from Ullapool, and they will be run on the ground by local course directors and facilitators. Training will be delivered by local experts and practitioners. The entry level course has been run by SCF for the past 15 years, and was last run in Uist in 2011. This year, the course will take place over two intensive days in the autumn. Topics covered include an overview of crofting past and present; support mechanisms and the EU; land and environment; crofting livestock; wildlife, habitats and landscape; croft business; animal health and welfare; diversification; community. Dates to be confirmed. The course costs £60, with some concessions available. The series of six practical courses will be run on the islands between August and December. Topics include seasonal husbandry; land management; conservation and environment; horticulture; heritage skills. SCF’s Crofting Skills Training Programme is funded up to 2015. SCF chief executive Patrick Krause said: “The crofting training that we have been able to provide has been extremely popular
and well attended. The evaluation of the last programme was very positive and it is gratifying that the Scottish Government and HIE are funding a further phase which builds on our experience. We are now offering more
courses and are developing the programme to provide further levels and formats to meet the needs of trainees. Tina and Lucy are very experienced practitioners that we are lucky to have join our team.”
The training courses will be offered subject to demand, so crofters are invited to contact susymacaulay@gmail.com to register an interest in courses in Uist, and training@crofting.org to register an interest in courses in Barra.
Suppliers of Tractors, Farm Machinery and Parts to the Farmers and Crofters of the Highlands & Islands Visit our website for details on current stock: www.mclarentractors.co.uk McLaren Tractors Ltd. Strathpeffer Road, Dingwall, Ross-shire IV15 9QF
Tel: 01349 867521 • Mob: 07775 584 565 Email: sales@mclarentractors.co.uk
AGRICULTURAL SHOWS THIS MONTH North Harris - July 3 Lewis - July 13 Tiree - July 19 South Uist - July 20 Lochs - July 26 South Harris - July 30 Black Isle - July 31/Aug 1 Coll - Aug 1
12
island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
BUG-SPOTTING Lionacleit machair, Benbecula Monday 29 July, 2pm with Dr Michael R Palomena prasina. Wilson, National Museum of Wales and Professor Alan Stewart, University of Sussex
Ben Hall, RSPB
Machair discovery walks - FREE Come and learn about these interesting bugs, the work being carried out here, what they can tell us and see some of the species for yourself. Where: Meet at the southern end of Lionacleit machair, Benbecula. There is no formal parking on the machair so it is best to park at the school and walk onto the machair from there (10 minutes).
MACHAIR FLORA Balranald machair, North Uist Wednesday 31 July, 2pm with Rick Goater, Applied Ecology Ltd
The leafhoppers, planthoppers and spittlebugs (Auchenorrhyncha) and the true bugs (Heteroptera) are a group of sap-sucking insects that may be very common in grassland. They are an excellent group to investigate differences between cultivated machair plots. Along with aphids and scales insects they comprise the Hemiptera.
A number of species groups, including flora, soil invertebrates and pollinators are being used to
This year’s Ceòlas festival of Gaelic culture runs from July 7 to 12 at locations across South Uist.
Highlights include a piping concert featuring Angus Nicolson, a singer’s ceilidh with Mary Catherine MacNeil and Dance in Eriskay featuring Iain MacFarlane from Blazin’Fiddles. There are organised walks to places of local interest, giving participants a chance to speak Gaelic in an informal setting. Calum Laing is launching his book An tUrramach Iain MacRuairidh.
monitor the response of biodiversity to changes in agricultural land management practices carried out through the Machair LIFE+ project. Come along and learn about this work – with the long cold spring this year the machair should still be very floriferous, so you will see many of these species for yourself. Where: Meet at the RSPB Balranald Visitor Centre where parking is available. This will be a busy time of year with tourists visiting so please car-share where possible. These FREE events include a talk/discussion with members of the Machair LIFE+ survey team to learn about the scientific monitoring work they are undertaking on behalf of the project; and a gentle walk across the machair and adjacent habitats to explore and identify the wider natural history interest of these sites. Records will be submitted to Outer Hebrides Biological Recording (OHBR). The events are weather dependent. If in doubt, please check on the morning of the event via the
‘Announcements and Events’ page on the Curracag forum (www.curracagwildlifenews.org.uk); our Facebook pages (www.facebook.com/CurracagUist or www.facebook.com/MachairLife); or contact the Machair LIFE+ project office on 01870 603361. These events are jointly organised by Curracag and Conserving Scottish Machair LIFE+ project. For more information, contact: Matthew Topsfield, Machair LIFE+ Project Advisory Officer on 01870 603361 or matthew.topsfield@rspb.org.uk
STRUAN HOUSE The Ceòlas programme also incorporates the European Oral Singing Tradition conference which will host delegates from across Europe. Sisters Dawn and Margie Beaton from Cape Breton will teach fiddle and step-dance on their third visit to Ceòlas. The grand finale will be the Ceilidh Mor, showcasing the talent from the whole week. Turn to page 21 for the timetable of events
Your lochside haven in North Uist ●
Comfortable, relaxing ground floor B&B Close to beaches and Balranald RSPB reserve ● Dozens of birds to spot, from tiny wren to majestic sea eagle ● Trout fishing by permit in loch ● Glimpse our neighbourhood otter and corncrakes ● Enjoy home baking and local produce ●
A warm welcome from Anne and Graeme
Telephone: 01876 510787 Mobile: 07514 534628
anneerobertson@yahoo.com
FINSBAY FISHINGS GUIDED MACHAIR WALKS EVERY MONDAY, 10am MEET AT HOWMORE CHURCH, SOUTH UIST 3 miles at a gentle pace £2 rspb members £5 non-members
Fishing available in Hebridean tidal and hill lochs on the Isle of Harris. Excellent wild brown trout are to be had as well as the possibility of sea trout and salmon with optional accommodation in Two Waters Lodge (sleeps 12) and Cliff Cottage (6). Three new chalets for Telephone for brochure. 100 Loch Fishings Tel: 01859 530397. 2014 season.
&+,/'5(16· +$7-MAKING WORKSHOPS From tractors to wildflowers, drop in and design your own machair-inspired bonnet at the Cladach Kirkibost Centre
4th July 9-4.30
Uist Community Riding School Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula BHS approved ●
Open all year for all ages and abilities
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Beach rides and paddles, lessons, fun days in or out
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Indoor riding school
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Qualified staff
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Large selection of well trained horses and ponies
Booking essential
Contact: 01870 602808 info@ridehebrides.org
North Uist Estate BROWN & SEA TROUT FISHING AT ITS BEST
Permits from £4.50 per day, available from Estate Office, Lochmaddy
Tel: 01876 500329 or from Lochmaddy Hotel Tel: 01876 500331
Rods available for hire
ISSUE 3 - JULY 2013
island news & ADVERTISER
wildlife of the Hebrides Discover for yourself the rich biodiversity of our islands
1 BIOBLITZ
SCIENTIST
at the
st
ISLAND NEWS & ADVERTISER
ANNUAL
BECOME A CITIZEN
Howmore machair,South Uist Saturday July 27,Sunday July 28
You’re invited to join resident and visiting naturalists and local crofters in this spectacular part of South Uist to spot and record anything that grows or moves in the area - birds, bees, bugs, butterflies. Moths, mammals. Flowers, fungi. On the shore, untangle the kelp forest and see what lives there. Spot whales and dolphins from the beach. Everything we find will be recorded and sent to Outer Hebrides Bio-logical Recording to add to the National Biodiversity Network’s data-base.The records will be a snapshot in time for future scientists to use to help
understand and preserve the richness of Uist’s western seaboard.
There will be plenty of other activities on site:
The event starts at 10am on Saturday, and finishes at 5pm on Sunday. Recording will happen throughout that time, including overnight, with moth traps, an infra-red camera and bat detector.
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Machair Life+ Howmore machair guided walk, Saturday and Sunday at noon; also stall with activities
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Low tide walks to spot creatures of the lower shore, with Lisa Woodin (see p IV)
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Dolphin and whale spotting sessions on the beach with WDC Shorewatch. Fun and games for kids. Meet at theWDC stall.
You’re welcome to drop in at any time children are especially welcome - and spend as long as you like looking and learning with the experts. If you’re a visitor with particular expertise, we’d love you to join in and share your knowledge.
Evening talk: ‘Watching out for whales and dolphins’ at Southend Community Hall, 7pm
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Badge-making and interactive games with Dr Evelyn Gray of Science on Your Doorstep
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RSPB trailer, with staff on site to help you identify the birds around you
It’s all FREE! food Refreshments kindly donated by Creagorry and Daliburgh Co-ops
IN&A’s summer wildlife supplements are supported by Scottish Natural Heritage
island news & ADVERTISER
Discover the flora and fauna of the Hebrides with IN&A’s summer supplements
WHAT I’VE FOUND!
flowers to look for on the machair ●
Common Storksbill
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Early Marsh Orchid
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Bird’s foot trefoil
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Cranesbill
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Cuckoo flower
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Ragged Robin
things to find on the shore ●
Jellyfish
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Mermaid’s purse
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Sea urchin
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Cockle shell
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Cowrie
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Winkle
Featured Walk:
Eoropie, Butt of Lewis Uist naturalist Steve Duffield takes you on one of his favourite walks in Lewis.
How to get there: Take the A857 from Stornoway to Lionel (approximately 29 miles) until you reach a minor road signposted for Eoropie and the Butt of Lewis. Turn left and after 1.5 miles you’ll see a play park and parking area on your left just after Ness Football Club, which is where the walk begins. Public Transport: There is a fairly regular bus service between Stornoway and Eoropie operated by Galson Motors (W1). These will drop you by the Tea Room which is across the road from the dune car park. Parking: There’s ample parking at Eoropie Dunes car park which is located by the play park and opposite the Eoropie Tea Room. This walk is 3.5 - 4 miles over slightly undulating terrain but easy under foot over short grass
Insect of the Month Great Yellow Bumblebee BBCT
insects to see Green-veined White Butterfly
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White-tailed Bumblebee
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Large Red Damselfly
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Belted beauty Moth
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Dung beetle
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Earwig
Drawings courtesy of South Uist artist William Neill of Askernish.
Key species: ●
Basking Shark (June – August)
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Grey Seal (all year)
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Fulmar (all year)
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Gannet (April – September)
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Kittiwake (May – August)
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Black Guillemot (May – August)
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Shag (all year)
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Rock Pipit (all year)
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Scots Lovage (July – August)
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Thrift (June – August)
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Eyebright (July – September)
Gannet
Bombus distinguendus
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Black Guillemot
with a slight incline and a section of road walking back from the lighthouse to the car park at Eoropie. The whole route will take approximately 2 hours to complete at an easy pace.
Butt of Lewis lighthouse
GYB male
The Great Yellow is one of the UK’s rarest bumblebees. It was once found across the UK but it is now only found in the North Highlands and islands of Scotland. This bumblebee requires flower-rich habitats to successfully rear males and daughter queens. Traditional management of crofts and machair provide the pollen and nectar needed by this bumblebee,but also look out for it using other flower-rich habitats, such as road verges and gardens.
the sea arch Fulmar to the north-west. After half an hour you reach a small stream; to the left there is another gate that allows access onto the higher cliffs.
From the car park, walk west through the dunes until you reach the beach. Head through Sea Pinks the gate on your right and follow the coast. Keep an eye out for a small rich, green coloured grassy mound close to the rocky coast; this is an otter spraint mound used to demark an active territory. Follow the coast and after around 15 minutes you reach a second gate. Rock Pipits are common here whilst under foot lies a carpet of tiny white flowers created by the plethora of eyebright. Once through the next gate and after the concrete slipway the cliffs begin to rise and the damp coastal gullies are home to scurvy grass and sea pinks or thrift. Wheatears are also found here and ravens regularly sail by whilst in the bay you may see Grey Seals as you look towards
Volunteers regularly carry out counts of the Great Yellow from Barra to Berneray in the Outer Hebrides, and report that there has been a decline in numbers of Great Yellow over the past four or five years, but no decline in range. In fact because of an improvement in habitat in Harris and Lewis and perhaps due to better recording effort the GYB worker known range in the Outer Hebrides has increased in the last ten years. The situation is worrying in Coll, where there have been no records of the Great Yellow for the past two years. The RSPB and Bumblebee Conservation Trust are surveying both Coll and Tiree for Great Yellow Bumblebee in June and July this year, and will let IN&A readers know of their findings.
Great Yellow Queen
The Great Yellow Bumblebee is covered in yellow to yellowish-brown hairs with a very distinct black band of hairs between the wings. Queens can be seen as early as May but most do not emerge from hibernation until mid-June.
A series of marker posts lead over the hill but it’s worth sticking to the coast as the scenery becomes Scots Lovage increasingly dramatic as you head firstly north-west and then turn east towards the lighthouse. Shags may be seen resting on small rocky islands whilst grassy stacks hold nesting gulls and rock doves are common. The northern coast and steep geos are home to nesting kittiwakes, fulmars and black guillemots. Collapsed cliff edges and sheltered hollows allow plants such as Scots lovage shelter from the grazing animals. After approximately an hour you start glimpsing the red brick lighthouse, designed by David Stevenson and built in the 1860’s. It’s situated at the most northerly point of Lewis and is a great vantage point for watching passing gannets, auks and other seabirds. On calmer days Basking sharks may be seen and if you’re lucky maybe the odd whale or dolphins. From the lighthouse you follow the minor road past Port Stoth and through an area of lazy beds before the final section of road back to Eoropie. This area is fenced on either side of the road and the narrow strips of croft land here occasionally hold calling corncrakes amongst the butterbur and long grass.
They establish nests in old mammal burrows in June and July.
BBCT
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July is the best month to look out for this bumblebee. Workers of this species can be seen from mid-July collecting nectar and pollen to support the nest. The Great yellow bumblebee produces a small nest with only 20-50 workers. Males and daughter queens are reared by the nest in late July and can be seen in August. The Great yellow is one of the UK’s rarest bumblebees. It was once found across the UK but it is now only found in the North Highlands and Islands of Scotland. This bumblebee requires flower-rich habitats to successfully rear males and daughter queens. Traditional management of crofts and machair provide the pollen and nectar needed by this bumblebee, but also look for it using other flowerrich habitats, such as road verges and gardens.
Bumblebee Conservation Trust www.bumblebeeconservation.org
& ADVERTISER
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Corn Marigold
The Hebrides’ most iconic habitat is in full bloom this month.
123RF
island news
Discover the flora and fauna of the Hebrides with IN&A’s summer supplements
Machair is a habitat complex formed by the accretion of shell sand on low lying plains, the formation of which is peculiar to the NW of Scotland and NW Ireland.This fertile habitat is managed by low intensity crofting practices which encourage a unique plant community that in turn supports a host of important insects and birds.
Eyebright
Eyebright – Euphrasia officinalis agg. Eye problems were also often treated using an infusion of eyebrights in milk,
Corn Marigold - Glebionis segetum
Long-headed Poppy – Papaver dubium subsp. dubium These brilliant red poppies are also agricultural weeds and although they aren’t particularly rare in the rest of Scotland, the absence of their commoner relative (the Common Poppy Papaver rhoeas) from the Western Isles is notable.
Red Clover
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Corn marigold, pictured above, is an agricultural weed which has been discovere among Neolithic remains in Scotland, suggesting it has been associated with crop farming from the very beginning. It became so widespread that landlords used its presence as an indicator of inadequate pest control by their tenants for which they extracted hefty fines, including one example from Perthshire where the tenant was charged one sheep per stem of corn marigold found on the land! Agricultural intensification has spelled the decline of the species leaving the Western Isles as its final Scottish stronghold.
Red Clover – Trifolium pratense The rich yellow colour of the machair gradually gives way to pink this month as the red clover begins to flower. Like all legumes, clovers create their own nitrogen supply by hosting nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules making it an important food source for cattle.
Yellow rattle - Rhinanthus minor This fascinating plant is widespread on the machair and gets its name from the ripening seed pods which rattle in the wind. It is hemi-parasitic which means it steals some nutrients from other plants by growing a modified Yellow Rattle
parasitised grasses aren’t able to grow as vigorously as a result of this, allowing other species that are normally out-competed by grasses to grow much more successfully.
Long Headed Poppy
Scarlet pimpernel - Anagallis arvenis A rarer, smaller plant to look out for on cultivated machair fringes is this bright red relative of the primrose. It has opposite leaves with black dots on the lower surface and flowers which only open up when the sun shines.‘Scarlet Pimpernel’ was made famous in a novel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy in which the main character rescues prisoners awaiting the guillotine, leaving behind only a calling card with a picture of Anagallis arvensis.
Scarlet Pimpernel
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Bird’s Foot Trefoil or Eggs and Bacon – Lotus corynactis At the beginning of the summer the machair is a swathe of yellow, mostly formed by buttercups and bird’s foot trefoil which flowers prolifically throughout the summer. The occasional splash of red in Lotus flowers earns it one English name (‘Eggs and Bacon’) whilst the shape of the seed pods is reflected in the other (‘Bird’s Foot Trefoil’). In South Uist, bird’s foot trefoil was reportedly used to treat styes.
root (called a haustorium) which invades the root system of grasses. Nutrients collected by the grass roots are then redirected into its own cells.The
wildseed.co.uk
Bird’s Foot Trefoil
although there is some evidence that it actually had a detrimental effect on eyesight. Somewhat ironically you need good eyesight to identify them as Clive Stace (author of the Flora of the British Isles) recognises 26 different species of Euphrasia and that’s before even mentioning subspecies and hybrids which form frequently as a result of the eyebright’s promiscuity.
123RF
SNH
Flora Donald of Scottish Natural Heritage, South Uist describes a few of the 150 flowering plants to look out for.
Discover the flora and fauna of the Hebrides with IN&A’s summer supplements
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Everything dances in Atlantic waters
DOLPHIN OF THE MONTH
Uist-based ‘rock-pool guddler’ Lisa Woodin describes the creatures of the inter-tidal zone around the Hebrides be found at the base of the kelp plants. Hunting around on the fronds, the smaller white dorids are more common and their ribbon of eggs, laid in a beautiful flower like spiral, are almost as exciting a find as they are.
Paul Naylor
HARBOUR PORPOISE Harbour porpoises are the only species of porpoise found in Scotland; they are widespread - but their numbers are in decline. The Inner Hebrides are an important site for them, and they are often seen around the Outer Hebrides.
WDC has identified areas we believe are important for harbour porpoises across Scotland including: Mousa Sound, in Shetland; Inner Hebrides; Outer Moray Firth and Firth of Clyde. These areas, as well as many others, are thought to be crucial for feeding, breeding and calving. For more information about harbour porpoises visit the WDC Species Guide on the WDC website – whales.org.
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FAST FACTS Most commonly sighted species in Scotland
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90% of global population is found in UK waters (approx. 300,000 individuals) Only member of the porpoise family found in European waters Also known as the ‘Puffing Pig’ because of the sneeze-like puffing sound it makes when it breathes
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WDC - Charlie Phillips
The biggest current threat to harbour porpoises is accidental capture in fishing nets with thousands of casualties worldwide each year. They may be especially vulnerable to bottom-set nets because they forage on the seabed and in many areas annual death or injury rates may exceed sustainable levels; i.e. - more are being caught than are being replaced. Additional threats to harbour porpoises include boat traffic, hunting, habitat loss, human disturbance and noise pollution and lack of prey. Chemical pollution has also recently been shown to adversely affect harbour porpoise health in the Northeast Atlantic.
Smallest whale or dolphin species Shortest lived whale or dolphin species Common group size 1-3 individuals Feed on the sea bed (sand eels and whiting) Dive for up to six minutes Biggest threat is accidental capture in bottom-set fishing nets
For more information about Whale and Dolphin Conservation or to get trained up as a Shorewatcher visit www.whales.org/shorewatch.
What you will undoubtedly find are Bryozoans. These tiny colonial animals build themselves a calcified cell just millimetres across on the fronds of the plants and filter their food from that aforementioned green haze of plankton. Membranipora membranacea forms roughly circular mats and can grow several millimetres a day. Often, it will only be the empty cell you will find left behind after some nudibranch has grazed its way through the lot so closer inspection is needed to see if there is anyone at home.
Feather star and kelp
Atlantic water has a quality, a life to it, that extends to the land it plays upon. I lived next to the insipid North Sea for many years and yearned to travel west. It isn’t just the crystal clarity, there is a wonderful energy to our waters. The life that teems here is imbued with this same character, from the largest whales to the aptly named jewel anemones just centimetres in diameter, everything dances in Atlantic waters. Jewel anemones (Corynactis viridis) are found a little deep for the average marine tourist (10 metres and downwards) although you only have to head out of Lochmaddy a short Corynactis viridis distance to admire them on our “sunken maddy”. The upper shore makes great paths but only a few hardy creatures can tolerate the long stretches exposed to the drying sun and wind. My favoured location is the low shore, only revealed when the tide is far out. You’ve just missed the summer solstice but tides will still be good around the next full moon July 22nd. Aim to follow the tide as it recedes and make sure it doesn’t catch you out as it turns. “Slack”, that brief turning point when the water seems to stop, is a Kipling moment, full of calm - watch for it! Here is where you may be lucky enough to stumble upon a nudibranch; delicate, soft bodied grazers in a plethora of colours from transluscent white to flourescent pink. I’m not going to tell you they are more commonly called sea slugs in case it puts you off. Marine biologists aren’t usually poets or we wouldn’t come up with names such as sea lemon. Its far more exotic latin name is Anisodoris nobilis and this particular species is a sponge eater so is more likely to
NHS
They are offered strict protection under UK (Wildlife and Countryside Act) and European law (EU Habitats and Species Directive, which requires that Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are designated to safeguard them.
Lucy Molleson
Harbour porpoises are the smallest (1.8m) and shortest lived (rarely exceeding 12 yrs) of all cetacean (whale and dolphin) species.They are easily recognisable due to their triangular dorsal fin, small size and characteristic slow rolling motion in the water. Typically seen alone or in small groups; harbour porpoises are sighted all year round with a peak in summer when they are known to breed and produce young.
Paul Kay
& ADVERTISER
These lush green gardens Membranipora on kelp are just as much a holiday with nudibranches camp site for the marine molluscs as your lettuce patch is for the land varieties. They have colonised the whole length of the intertidal zone, different species finding their own particular niche. The kelp fronds are no exception and is home to the blue rayed limpet (Patina pellucida). These little bobby dazzlers have electric blue stripes but believe me, it doesn’t make them any easier to spot. They are much smaller than the common limpet at only 5-10mm and are more oval and streamlined. You can find their shells on our beaches, occasionally still with a hint of the blue. You have to look closely amongst the sea of fronds that surround you. Get your feet wet (but please have footwear as there are plenty sharp beasties around too) and your hands dug in. Turn each ‘leaf’ and inspect the surfaces for animals growing and grazing. These seaweed forests offer protection from the worst of the Atlantic’s force and hold them in the flow where abundant food and light are within easy reach: a veritable Garden of Eden.
Go take a walk there sometime soon. Paul Kay
island news
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Blue-rayed limpets
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
A total riding experience for all ages and abilities
PUBLIC NOTICE
Its fun, it’s healthy and it’s sociable; the benefits of horse riding are well-known to the team at the Uist Community Riding School, and they’re ready to share them with you this summer.
Roads advice for Tourists/ Motorists visiting Western Isles over the Summer months
UCRS manager Sue MacDonald writes: Horse riding is one of the best forms of exercise, providing both cardiovascular and muscle conditioning benefits. An hour of riding burns the same amount of calories as a 30 min jog or a cycle ride. Once you are in the saddle you utilise all muscles in the body which counter-reacts the movement of the horse to avoid becoming off balance, so the deep postural muscles of the trunk and pelvis and the adductor muscles of the thighs get conditioned continuously. After a few days of horse riding you will experience your joints moving more freely, and muscles toning up. Riding also improves breathing and circulation, sharpens the senses and visual-spatial co-ordination as well as providing excellent therapeutic qualities. The psychological and social benefits of
We are open all, year round and can be contacted either in the yard at the
riding are just as important as the physical benefits. Riding is a sport that involves a lot of attention and an element of controlled risk taking; you gain confidence, learn to make quick discussions in unpredictable situations, with this, comes self-discipline, focus, patience and team building. You meet a lot different people, learn new skills and develop your relationship and understanding with animals and closely relate to and have enhanced respect for your horse So why not come down and try out some of the above statements for yourself and see if it works for you.
Uist Community Riding School Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula or by phone
01870 602808 (answer phone 24h) or e-mail info@ridehebrides.org
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Throughout the year a large number of people come to visit our beautiful islands to enjoy a well earned holiday in the peace and tranquillity of the Western Isles. However there is a hazard which some drivers may never have come across - single track roads. Here are a few tips for people driving on these roads: ● Use passing places properly – you stop on your nearside (passenger side) please do not cross over to the other side of the road. ● Don’t be distracted – you may be enjoying the scenery but please let traffic flow freely. Check your mirrors regularly and allow vehicles to pass. ● Speed – don’t drive too fast for the road conditions and especially when you don’t know the area. ● Expect the unexpected – animals may decide to wander onto the road at any time and also be aware of mud or other debris. ● Beware of cyclists/walkers – please allow them plenty room as you pass by. ● In relation to cyclists – please wait at the passing place for them to reach you and also cyclists please wait at the passing place if you see a car coming rather than try to carry on. ● Horses – Drivers should watch out for horses on the road,especially when approaching bends and on narrow rural roads. Always slow down when seeing a horse and pass by slowly. Give them plenty of room and be ready to stop if necessary. Drivers should never sound their horn or rev their engine near horses. ● As always – do not drink and drive,do not use your phone whilst driving and always wear your seatbelt.
POLICE NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER
South Uist Church of Scotland Summer Services in 2013 July 7: 11am at Daliburgh only July 14, 21 and 28: 10.30am at Daliburgh and 12 noon at Howmore August 4: 11am at Howmore only EVERYONE WELCOME
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Class
2013
L to R: Callum MacInnes, Innes Brannigan, Hope Muire, Zoe-Jade Muire,Rosslyn Palmer.
Daliburgh school
OF
Carinish school
The
Liana Steele, Georgia MacMillan, Mary MacDonald, Seonaidh Binnie, Katy Campbell, Marc Lindsay, Sophie McNab, Marco MacDonald, Amy Murdoch, Anna Campbell,
Castlebay school
Denis is looking for Christine
Balivanich school
Iochdar school
Ryan Nicholson,Craig MacDonald,Ruaraidh Galbraith,Catriona MacKinnon,Samantha McHardy,Front row Claire Campbell,Uilleam MacDougall.
Back Row Andrew Kelty, Uillean Brass, Leona MacAulay, Catherine MacDonald, Mary Rose MacIsaac. Front Row Lennon MacInnes, Craig MacLaughlin, Calum MacDonald, Angus John Morrison, Emma MacPhee, Laura Beaton, Eilidh MacPhee, Isobel Paterson.
Back row l to r - Chloe Maxwell, Ronald MacMillan, Michael Campbell, Angus MacMillan, Emma MacDonald Front row - Lavrita Ivanova, Finlay MacVicar, Jordon Menzies, Neil Martin.
Look out for more primary school leavers in the next edition of
Island News & Advertiser
A Scots ex-pat living in Canada is looking for a Lewis lady he met in the 1940s in Aberdeen. Denis Bettson was reminiscing with his son Yonny, and conjured up the name of Christine or Christina Mitchell, whom he knew as Chris, and met when he was studying in Aberdeen. Mr Bettson said Chris was from Stornoway and was attending art school in Aberdeen. She might have moved on to Glasgow with a friend to continue her studies, he added. Yonny said: “My father thinks her father owned or managed the public bus system, possibly in Stornoway. This would have been sometime between 1945 and 1949, placing Chris now in her early to mid eighties.� As there was a John Mitchell (Stornoway) Ltd bus company at around that time perhaps the Western Isles Transport Preservation Group can help?
Email editor@islandnewsandadvertiser.com if you can help put the old friends in contact again.
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July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
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Art ‘‘ Uist artists throw open their studios Anything that allows people to explore their creativity is a good thing. Marnie Keltie
Art on the Map, Uist artists’ studio trail runs this month from June 29 to July 21. Uists’ open studio trail is now ten years old and has become an established fixture in the islands’ artistic calendar. Organised by volunteers from Uist Art Association (UAA) Art on the Map unfolds in 23 venues from South Uist to Berneray. Uist is a creative hotspot for photography, fine art, ceramics, bookbinding, drawing, cards, painting, prints, woodcraft, textiles, jewellery, installations, abstract, figurative. Many Ruairidh of the artists are widely MacDonald. exhibited off-island in the rest of the UK and overseas. The Art on the Map venues are signposted with distinctive black and
Beatrix Wood.
Mary Lewis.
white UAA signs, and range from community centres to cafes, sheds, front rooms and byres, all with free entry. Lochmaddy’s Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre has a taster
Donald John MacKinnon beneath his painting of a cow at the Craigard exhbition.
Craigard exhibition opens at Taigh Chearsabhagh Service users and staff from Craigard Day Centre in Lochmaddy enjoyed an afternoon of art and music at Taigh Chearsabhagh. The event celebrated an exhibition of artworks created by the centre’s clients, including mosaics, screenprints, paintings and drawings. Craigard’s own accordion virtuoso, Donald John MacKinnon provided the musical entertainment for the afternoon. Team leader Marnie Keltie has worked at Craigard for 19 years. She said: “We do arts and crafts at the centre, and we get involved in community events.
“Anything that allows people to explore their creativity is a good thing. “In summer we organise lots of day trips, things like picnics on the beach. “ We are also going to be touring the galleries involved in the Art on the Map event. “In winter the clients go along to Scottish Country Dancing, which they enjoy very much.” The art exhibition is on display at Taigh Chearsabhagh café until the end of June.
exhibition to give a flavour of this year’s studio trail and there are brochures detailing the trail at the centre and outlets throughout the islands. Find out more at www.uistarts.org
Florence Pearson.
island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
People
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In some families three generations have attended the school. Mary MacInnes
South Uist school celebrates half century To mark the 50th birthday of Iochdar School this year, staff and pupils worked together to put on a special celebration show last month. Martin Graham To mark the 50th birthday of Iochdar School this year, staff and pupils worked together to put on a special celebration show last month. Each class took on the task of representing one of the decades from the school’s history, from the 1960s to the present day, using songs, dance and news reports to reflect the changing times in both Gaelic and English. Direction was on hand from Skye-based rockturned-trad/contemporary musician Rick Taylor (pictured) and his partner Pam Allan. Both worked with the staff and pupils to refine
The Proclaimers even dropped in for a singsong.
backdrops and as inspiration for the show. “The early period of the school’s life was difficult to find images for, because many people back then just didn’t have cameras, but the South Uist Appreciation Society were very helpful in supplying useful pictures.” Remembering the adventures of Hercules the bear on Uist.
their performances and create a show to remember. Rick said: “We developed sketches, dance routines and songs with the boys and girls. “We used photos that people had taken as
Head teacher Mary MacInnes read the news for BBC Alba.
Head teacher Mary MacInnes said she appreciated having professional musicians involved in the process. She said: “It’s a great experience for the children to work with someone like Rick with all his professional experience, he really Dorothy MacVicar brings out the best in the kids, especially the chronicled the decades through ones who are maybe BBC News bulletins not quite so confident. Mrs MacInnes reflected on the importance of the school to the community in South Uist. She said: “In some families, three generations have attended the school.
Charles and Di popped by.
Some of the children felt a little sheepish.
“We will be having a photo exhibition to mark the 50th anniversary.” Pam Allan said: “The teachers are all amazing with the work that they do.
Would anything in Uist be complete without a visit from The Department?
“Each decade has really developed with its own character, with the 1960s being quite stern and strict, while the 1990s are a lot more open and relaxed.” The show’s lively humour, costume changes, song, dance and trips down memory lane went down a storm with young and old who packed the hall to see it.
No show without Punch - in this case, the Tartan Army.
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
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Music Benbecula students end of term concert and prize giving
UHI students at Buckingham Palace.
Students celebrated the completion of their studies on the HNC music course in Benbecula with a fantastic concert and ceilidh, at the Isle of Benbecula Hotel in Creagorry, writes Anna Wendy Stevenson, Programme Leader, BA Hons Applied Music, UHI. Performing to a packed house, the audience were treated to an incredibly high level of performance which has been nurtured over the past year, demon- David Provan with strating clearly why Tutor Iain MacDonald. LCC has become known as a leading centre for musical excellence in music education in the UK. Learning from some of the top names in the traditional music world, the courses continue to attract students from mainland UK and Europe as well as increasingly catering to local school leavers. ‘The best two years of my life’ Euan Smillie student and fiddler with the Elephant Sessions.
‘Last night was an example of why Uist is one of the best places you can go to study music. The atmosphere was electric – the place was full’ James Stewart, student and member of Vallastrome. ‘What a night – brilliant music’ member of public. ‘Amazing evening, such talent’, member of public. Prize giving included awards sponsored by Ceolas Music Festival, Aberdeen International Youth Festival’s Ceol Mor big band and the Mark Sheridan Music award for composition. These were awarded to piper David Provan Graeme Platman from Ardrishaig, receives his prize from fiddler Amy MacAulay Mark Sheridan.
7-12th July 2013 Welcome Ceilidh Sunday 7th July
7.30pm
St Peters Hall
Bill Neill Art Exhibition 8th July
4.30pm
Daliburgh School
Piping Concert
8th July
7.30pm
St Peters Hall
Walk with DR
9th July
4.30pm
Eriskay Hall meet
Singers Concert
10th July 7.30pm
Dance with Ceòlas
10th July 10.00pm Eriskay Hall
Walk to Locheynort
11th July 4.30pm
North LochEynort
Fiddle & Dance Night
11th July 8.00pm
St Peters Hall
Cèilidh Mor
12th July 8.00pm
Southend Hall
Southend Hall
from Lochboisdale, guitarist Graeme Platman from Callander. The HNC music course has a strong commitment to creating opportunities to provide stimulating performance, networking and teaching opportunities. This year students have performed at Celtic Connections Festival on two occasions, Royal Albert Hall in London, Celtic Music Radio, Buckingham Palace, Swiss Radio, BBC TV (Landward), Northern Roots Festival, numerous local ceilidhs and concerts including Taigh Chearsabhagh’s monthly popular Taigh Cuil nights. Through partnership with local music festival Ceolas, students have been offered excellent opportunities to gain employment teaching after school music instrumental classes in the local schools. With the programme leadership granted to LCC last year for the highly acclaimed BA (Hons) Applied Music and the recent validation for MA
European Oral Singing Tradition Conference Conference, 10th July walks and workshops
10.00am - 5.00pm
Grogarry Lodge
Conference, 11th July walks and workshops
10.00am -5.00pm
Taigh Sgìre Sholais
Concert of European Singing
7.30pm
Conference, 12th July and workshops
10.00am - 4.00pm
Music and the Environment, there is now plenty of opportunity for those students who wish to continue their musical journey in Uist. Half the current student Amy MacAulay receives cohort have already her prize from UHI Lews decided to continue Castle College principal their studies on the BA Iain MacMillan. (Hons) Applied Music. There are still places available on HNC Music, BA Applied Music, MA Music and the Environment and from September, residential accommodation for students coming to the island will be made available at the new ‘Creagorry Music Hub’. For more information contact Anna-Wendy Stevenson, Programme Leader BA Applied Music anna.stevenson@uhi.ac.uk 01851770517
Cuairt mun Chorran - Ardmore to Carnan Photographic Exhibition
20th July
5.00pm
Gerinish Hall
‘How to dress a horse’
21st July
5.00pm
Iochdar School
“Carnan Ceilidh”
21st July
7.30pm
Iochdar School
Talks & Walks from
22nd July
10.00 - 4.30pm
Piping Concert
22nd July
7.30pm
Talks & Walks
23d July
10.00 - 4.30pm
Ceilidh with Morag
23rd July
7.30pm
Berneray Hall Talla an Iochdar
Grogarry Lodge Talla an Iochdar
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Community The value of volunteering To mark Volunteer’s Week this year, North Uist and Benbecula councillor Neil Beaton joined volunteers at East Camp Horticultural Trust to see for himself the work they carry out growing vegetables,plants and fruit for sale.
Bill Armour, Amanda MacDonald and Neil Beaton in the sensory garden.
The idea to put councillors with volunteers came from Amanda MacDonald, development worker in the Uist office of the Volunteer Centre Western Isles. She said:“The idea was for Cllr Beaton to see first hand the work that goes on here and what the volunteers are doing and getting out of it, how it benefits them, and the wider community. I hope that he’ll take something away in terms of understanding how central volunteering is for the community. It’s a chance for the volunteers to tell someone what they’re doing and why it’s important to them, and what challenges there are.” Mr Beaton joined volunteer Bill Armour to see his work in the horticulture project’s keder greenhouse, polytunnel and raised beds. Mr Armour has been a volunteer on the project for three years, and says he has become more and more involved. He said: “I started off doing a couple of hours a week, and now I’m down here seven days, for seven to eight hours a day, as much time as I can. I’ve been a gardener most of my life, but being in the Forces, I never had much of a chance to do anything about it until now. I love it. I gave Cllr Beaton a guided tour, and told him what we’re trying to achieve. I get great satisfaction from growing things.” Mr Armour is currently unemployed, but said he dreams of working full-time in gardening. Mr Armour also showed around Mr Beaton the East Camp Sensory Garden next to the Tagsa Uibhist building where he has invested time planting shrubs, flowers and grasses. Mr Beaton said:“I was really impressed by Bill’s enthusiasm for his work, and by the wonderful range of plants being grown here. “Being with Bill I saw the satisfaction he gets from it and if anyone has a few hours to spare, then this is one of the best ways to spend it.” Funding for the horticulture project’s two part-time staff is now at an end, although the volunteers will continue their work. Mr Beaton said:“I think this is a precious asset here for the volunteers and public in general who can benefit from buying good produce. I sincerely hope that we will be able to find some funding somewhere to keep this going because it’s very worthwhile.”
Carers event in Harris.
Caring for carers Uist carers were offered tea, cakes and pampering at Iochdar Care Unit in Rubha Doigheag to celebrate Carers Week last month. The care unit was refurbished to a high standard by Tagsa Uibhist last year to offer a place for dependents to be looked after 24/7 while their carers get a break. This time, it was the turn of carers to enjoy tea and cupcakes, and a spot of therapy from Creagorry beautician Amanda MacPhee of Beauty by Amanda. The event was organised by Linda MacDonald, training and development officer for Western Isles Community Care Forum (WICCF). She took up her post in March and among other things carries out assessment for carers, teaches them moving and
Cathy McKinnon enjoys a hand and arm massage by Amanda MacPhee.
handling, and signposts them towards other support services. She said: “Carers in Uist haven’t had this support before. We wanted to get the message out that there is someone there for them. We can help make a difference in all sorts of practical ways.” Cathy McKinnon came by to enjoy a hand and arm massage. As manager of Tagsa Uibhist, Cathy has been involved in arranging respite care and support for carers for years- but she was also the carer for her two uncles for ten years. She urged other carers to take steps to look after themselves. She said: “I made a promise not to send my uncles to a home. It’s manageable if you have a caring network around you, and support. Carers are saving society so much money, and there is no shame in taking time out. A lot of people don’t even think of themselves as carers, they see it as their duty, but they should take time to relax or they could burn out and end up in hospital themselves, and then what happens to their dependents? Often there is no forward thinking.” “Carers have to be admired for all the hard work they do,” she added. Patricia Holtham and her husband John also popped by for a spot of
pampering. John has multiple medical conditions and Patricia cares for him 23/7, with help coming in for a hour in the morning. A medical emergency meant they were late for their appointment for the carer’s day at Rubha Doigheag, but Patricia was touched to find that the caring team had stayed on after hours to welcome them. She said: “It was really lovely, we all sat round the table and had chocolate cake, I had a hand massage, while the girls chatted to John. We both thoroughly enjoyed it.” Events also took place in Lewis, Harris and Barra. In Harris, eight carers enjoyed a cookery demonstration by Irene Morrison and Tina Burgess, and also had time to chat, catch up and share information. WICCF cordinator for Harris, Peggy MacKay said: “It was also a good time for the carers to discuss and share things, and the feedback was very positive. We hope that word of mouth will let other carers know there are people to talk to, listen and help them find out what there’s to help and benefit them.”
Iochdair cycle training success Iochdair Junior Youth Club ran a successful SCTS (Scottish Cycle Training Scheme) and would like to congratulate the following on passing their test, Maria
Angus B MacNeil MP Constituency Office, 31 Bayhead Street, Stornoway Isle of Lewis, HS1 2DU
Flùraichean Mhàiri Your Florist in Uist Full range from bouquets to wreaths ● Every occasion catered for ● Delivery from Berneray to Barra ●
All enquiries welcome
tel: 01878 700320 264 Daliburgh, South Uist, HS8 5SS macleodmairi2@googlemail.com www.uistflorist.co.uk
Tel 01851 702 272 E-Mail: macneila@parliament.uk
McGoldrick (pictured right), Calum Beaton and Laura Beaton who went through their tests at Youth Club on Wednesday 12th June. The committee would like to thank Donna MacLeod, Ian McTaggart and WPC MacKinnon (all pictured) for all their time and effort in helping run this course. The youth club recently went on a day trip to Stornoway and would just like to thank the following for making it a successful trip, Adventure Island, Stornoway, Harris Inn, CalMac Staff of Loch Portain Ferry, Kenneth MacLennan Coaches, Harris, Buchanan Coaches,
Iochdair Junior Youth Club SCTS.
Benbecula and all the children and helpers on the day. As Wednesday June 12 was the last youth club until after the summer months we would like to thank all the children for their support over the last year, parents that help out on the rota, Iochdair School Staff and to the community for all the support they have given us.
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July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
Neighbours
These are really exciting times for h the island and the new arts centre wit many more events in the pipeline. Colin Irvine
Beginners on stage please - curtain rises on news arts centre in Canna The former St Edward’s RC church on the tidal island of Sanday, Canna is taking on a new lease of life as an arts centre, with a season of theatre lined up for the summer. Now known as Camus Arts Centre, the 19th century building has been prepared for curtain-up with elbow grease by the whole community, led by Tighard guest house host, Colin Irvine. Mr Irvine, from Edinburgh, lectured in performance art and theatre at London Metropolitan University and Leyton College, London for 16 years before coming with his partner to run Tighard, the guest house of the National Trust for Scotland, Canna’s landlord.
Interior, St Edwards Church
The community striped the damp plaster off the walls, allowing the brickwork to breathe. They have created bench seating from old railway sleepers and old planks found on the pier and around the island, so that the venue now has seating for 30 to 40 people. Paint for the project came from a previous refurbishment, so the transformation has been achieved at minimal expense. Lighting and sound has been installed with help from George Tarbuck, director of the Edinburgh School of Lighting and Sound. Mr Irvine said: “Our first two shows will be ‘Illumination’, a play by Donna Worthington in celebration of the Lindisfarne Gospels, with Canna being the only Scottish venue where it will be performed. The play is touring Church and sacred venues as well as
HEBRIDES TOUR FOR TRAIL WEST Tiree band Trail West are bringing their unique take on the West Coast ceilidh band sound to the Inner and Outer Hebrides this month, starting at An Cridhe, Coll on July 4. They will play Tiree Feis between July 8 and 12, and Tiree Music Festival on July 20-21, closing in Tiree at Scarinish Hotel on July 22. Outer Hebrides dates include Hotel Hebrides,Tarbert Harris on July 14, Mcneil’s Stornoway July 15, 16 and 17, and Castlebay Bar, Barra on July 24. A gig in Iochdar Hall, South Uist on Thursday July 25 will be a homecoming for one of the group. Seonaid MacIntyre, who plays whistle and pipes, is from Loch Carnan. The lads are riding high after the release of their first album ‘One That Got Away’in April this year on Tyree records. Run by the band Skerryvore, the label has supported Trail West to help them get the album out.
23
St Kilda Sequence by Ryan Dempsey
Blight A day of beauty we were blessed with for lifting the buntáta Cautiously men began to dig, women on hands and knees anticipating The little pebble white treasures there covered A crust of brown black peaty soil specked with golden grains of sand and ash Shoots white and tipped pale yellow were visible Yet one after another turned up gnarled, grotesque Cursed, warted: brown veins of disease ran through and through Barely a basket full The dirt engrained skin wrinkled - the potato squelched in hand With winter gathering its skirts our thoughts turned to survival Lack of crops and able-bodied men: our fate with God
St Edwards Church is now Camus Arts Centre.
Holy Island Itself.The Canna performances will take place on Wednesday August 7 at 6pm and 8.30pm . “The second performance will take place on Saturday August 24 with two performances of a new play by a promising young playwright called Fiona Connor. The play is a mystical journey from modern times to the Jacobite rising of 1745 and looks at the issues surrounding Scotland at that time.” Mr Irvine is directing this production, called The Low Road. The performances will take place at 2pm and 7.30pm. He has brought in four exstudents from his London teaching days to act in the production. He said: “The third major performance will take place on Saturday the 14th September and is called ‘A little bird blown off course’ by the National Theatre of Scotland. The play celebrates the life and works of Margaret Fay Shaw and ends it tour very
appropriately on Canna. Gaelic singer Fiona McKenzie has been heavily involved in the research and has been to visit the Canna archives several times. This performance will take place at 4.15 pm. “People can take a day trip to Canna from Mallaig on Saturdays.”
The return Unsteady in the old distressed boat Slapped and punished by the waves Slowly he landed Standing on the rocky shore he appeared a different man His eyes like tiny peepholes Face gaunt. Skin as bright translucent white as a Puffin’s breast Sick with grief and loss, consumed It dragged behind him - anchors roped to his ankles as he walked Silently he made his way along The nod of a head, the shake of a hand, not a word uttered His young bereft son slowly stepped forth
Refurbishment in progress.
A silvery stream of tears
Mr Irvine added: “These are really exciting times for the island and the new arts centre with many more events in the pipeline and all made possible by the dedication and hard work of the community and the partnership with the National Trust for Scotland.” Tickets can be reserved or booked by emailing camusartscentre@ yahoo.co.uk or telephoning 01687 462 474.
His father broke down His cry drowning the sound of the crashing waves He pulled his son tight not letting his grip falter Their grave suffering was deep yet Only the beginning The final nail in the coffin How it echoed Lingering within our heads and hearts Sealing the life and tradition we knew to eternal darkness Pain biting through to our very marrow The familiar suddenly stripped away
AWARD WINNING COTTAGE White House Lodge in Grishipol, Coll has been commended in the Argyll and Bute Sustainable Design Awards 2012. The judges said the self-catering house, rebuilt from a 19th century farmworker’s cottage was “an exemplar of radical intervention in the conservation of a listed building with high sustainability credentials providing an enviable home worthy of its location and setting.”
No more would the Mistress Stone join a couple in their eternal bond Gone the daily meeting of the men deciding the tasks of the day But off to the forests to care for trees We Kildans know nothing of these
Ryan Dempsey is a singer/songwriter living in North Uist Watercolours by Judith Entwisle-Baker,Westside Gallery,North Uist.
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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Sport
sueaac logo
South Uist & Eriskay amateur athletics club results North Scotland Schools, Inverness June 12 Heather MacKinnon competed for Sgoil Lionacleit but is a member of SUEAAC 100m – Final, 7th, 14.43 75m Hurdles
200m – 3rd Laura Steele Long Jump – 3rd Laura Steele
Western Isles Track and Field Championships, Stornoway June 15
33.55PB
9G
3.62m
800m – 1st Heather Campbell
2.42m
10B
3.14m
11B
– Final, 3rd, 13.90
Long Jump – Final, 1st and North Scotland Schools Champion, 4.29m
Long Jump –11G 1st Jordan MacKinnon Long Jump – 3rd Katie Walker
U14G
9B
800m – 2nd Liam MacKinnon
3.05.55PB
100m – 1st Jordan MacKinnon
15.71PB
Long Jump – 2nd Liam MacKinnon
2.87m
High Jump – 1st Jordan MacKinnon
1.10mPB
Shot Putt – 3rd Ryan MacIntyre
3.57m
75m – 3rd Ross Walker 150m – 2nd Ross Walker Long Jump – 2nd John Laing – 3rd Ross Walker
13.37PB 27.49PB 2.58m 2.42m
SUEACC CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
The club held their championships at Sgoil Lionacleit on Wednesday June 19. Check the IN&A website for results.
19 SUEAAC athletes competed, winning 22 medals, 30 Personal Bests and 15 Club Records. We are all very proud of the athletes and thanks to Stornoway Running and Athletics Club (SRAC) for hosting a great event and thanks to the volunteers for their help.
U18G 100m – 2nd Rebecca Steele
15.49PB
U16G 80m Hurdles – 1st Heather MacKinnon 14.56PB, – 3rd Joanna Walker 16.87PB 100m – 2nd Heather MacKinnon 14.30PB Long Jump – 2nd Heather MacKinnon 4.49m
CO CHOMUNN AN IOCHDAIR LTD
CARNAN STORES CARNAN, SOUTH UIST, WESTERN ISLES, HS8 5RH Phone: 01870 610205 Fax: 01870610216 Email: managercarnanstores@aol.com
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HEATING APPLIANCES & FUEL — Electric & Gas Heaters, Coal, Logs, Kindling, Bottled Gas and Gas Appliances.
Custom Prints UIST AND BARRA FOOTBALL LEAGUE
CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR —Wet Weather Suits, Boiler suits, Jackets, Trousers, Shirts, Socks, Underwear, Gloves, Hats, Wellingtons, Boots and Shoes.
Uist & Barra League Table 2013
At the heart of the Community ●
Wide selection
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Local meat, fish, eggs and seasonal veg
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Fresh baking
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Fuel
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Friendly service
P
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GD
PTS
Saints
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FIREARMS - Cartridges, Bullets, Pellets.
Southend
9
5
1
3
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20
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NEW - Engine Oil, Tractor Parts, Plumbing and Electrical Accessories.
Benbecula
9
4
2
3
25
19
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Barra
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Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm
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Telephone: 01876 510257
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PAINT — Undercoat, Emulsion, Gloss, Marine, Machinery Enamel.
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This is just a small selection of what we have in stock. Everyone welcome to call in and look around.
COMPETITIVE PRICES PLEASE CHECK WITH US BEFORE ORDERING ELSEWHERE
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Daily papers
Bayhead, North Uist
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
Dance
25
What’s On SCOTLAND C R E AT E S
Agricultural Shows
Turn to page 11
Free dance and animation workshops Saturday July 13, 10am - 4pm, Sgoil Lionacleit Explore the theme of weather and how it affects your life with contemporary dance tutor Rosalind Masson
or Work with a professional film-maker to produce a short film for screening To book a place: 01870 603692/01851 822746
Triùir Residential Dance Research
Class description
weight and flow. As class continues, we go on to longer, more complex choreographic phrases building on the movement principles established at the beginning of class. These phrases challenge our openness, resourcefulness and trust in our bodies’ own intelligence.We travel in and out of the floor, through the space and into the air extending our individual capabilities of what is possible. Open Studio for public where the dancers will share what they’ve been researching will be on Friday 5/12/19/26 July from 5.30pm - 6pm Open studio: FREE
Class begins by listening, tuning in to the body and noticing how the weight is falling through the skeleton.The preliminary focus is on alignment: specifically the initiation point of movement and the reaction this causes throughout the rest of the body. Exercises increase mobility, coordination and awareness whilst releasing excess muscular Open Contemporary Dance Class for adults age 13 + activity and working the deep postural muscles. Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 2 to 25, 10am to 12 noon As the exercises begin to extend into space we learn how to channel our energetic qualities for most efficient use of
STONEYBRIDGE HALL £6 per class or £40 for the whole month.
Highland Games SouthUist Games & Piping Society WEDNESDAY JULY 17 Askernish Machair,South Uist.From 10am Traditional Highland games with heavies,junior events,piping and Highland dancing.Stalls and shows for children. All welcome.
NorthUist Highland Games FRIDAY JULY 19 Balelone Field,near Tigharry,North Uist from 10.30am Heavies,athletics,Hill race,tug o war,piping, dancing. Refreshments- beer tent. Everyone welcome.
C O M P E T I T I O N
PHOTOGRAPHY
Berneray Classes Primary,12-18, and Adult.
SOLLAS WEEK
July 12 - 20
Categories LANDSCAPE CROFTING ● FLORA AND FAUNA ● HUMOROUS
July 6 Berneray Hall, 8pm An Evening of Song and Dance with guest appearance by Filidh Ruadh,a Swiss trio with a passion for traditional Celtic music.Followed by ceilidh with local musicians.
Berneray Week
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SAT 20 JULY
WED 24 JULY
Closing date for Photography Competition, 4pm,Taigh Sgire Sholais ● BBQ with “The Weakest link” (kids and adults version), BYOB, 7.30pm,Taigh Sgire Sholais
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Woodland Walk 12 noon, meet at Taigh Sgire (bring your own picnic) ● Traditional Concert, 7.30pm, Marquee ● Ceilidh Dance (to follow till late), Licensed with BBQ
Closing date Sat 20th 4pm at TS, photos will be on display during Sollas Week.
SUN 21 JULY
Lachie’s Trek “The short Precentor’s walk’”, 10am, meet @ Taigh Sgire ● Children’s Sports, 11am -1pm, Marquee ● Quiz, 7pm, Marquee
Children’s Step Dancing (Beginners), 11am – 12noon, Marquee ● Fishing Competition, 3pm, meet at Middlequarter road end ● Curry Takeaway,4.30pm – 6pm,Taigh Sgire Sholais ● Whisky Tasting Competition & Race Night, 7pm, Marquee (Licensed)
Prizes will be awarded in all categories
TUE 23 JULY
FRI 26 JULY
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Family Service, 3pm,Taigh Sgire Sholais
THURS 25 JULY ●
MON 22 JULY ●
Latha na Gaidhlig (airson clann), 11am 1pm, Marquee ● Cookery Demo & Local Foods Tasting, 7pm, Marquee ● Promise Auction (to follow at approx 8pm) ●
Sgolpaig Walk 2 – 4pm, meet at Scolpaig “From Manse to Media” Talk by John Morrison, 7.30pm,Taigh Sgir ● Ceilidh Dance 10pm – 2am, Marquee, licensed with BBQ ● ●
Fri 12 Opening night – 9.00 pm Ceilidh dance with Billy Macphee Sat 13 12 noon RNLI & HM Coastguard Open Day (Leverburgh lifeboat & Coastguard helicopter at Berneray harbour) Mon15 9.00 pm Ceilidh dance with Calum Iain MacCorquodale Tue 16 1.00 pm Craft Sale & teas in the Hall 2.00 pm Sports day on the machair 8.00 pm Quiz night Wed 17 1.30 pm Sandcastle Competition & Kite Flying 8.00 pm Beach BBQ on the East Beach Thu 18 1.00 pm The Berneray Week Treasure Hunt 7.30 pm Gaelic Song Class Fri 19 9.00 pm Ceilidh dance with the Monach Isles Band Sat 20 1.00 pm Berneray 10k 7.45 pm Traditional Concert
July 15 Sheepdog trials,Berneray machair
26
island news & ADVERTISER - July 2013 Issue 16
Paw Prints
Welcome to Paw Prints, where your animals get their chance to shine.
Marvin the Catalan Sheepdog received his name because it rhymes with “starvin’”. The hapless hound was abandoned by his owners in Spain, who let him wander around without any food, shelter or care. But the lucky pooch was adopted by an English couple who found him begging for food near their holiday apartment. Now Marvin goes on holidays
with his proud new owners Jackie and Martin Watson from Colne, Lancs, and is loved and looked after as if he’s one of the family. Marvin, Jackie and Martin all enjoyed their brief visit to the Hebrides last month, and vowed to return for a longer trip soon.
Taking pets on a trip always seems like a good idea, why not let them Smudge enjoy a break as well? But for Missy and Smudge, taking a break with their owner Mark Newton means travelling round the whole of the UK. In a trailer. Pulled by a mobility scooter, top speed 8mph. Army veteran Mark Newton, from Swansea, set out on his mission to raise funds for veterans’ charities. Putting the moggies into a cattery was going to cost £18 per day each, so Mark decided to bring them along. They sleep happily in the trailer
alongside Mark, and have leads attached to their collars to stop them roaming too far from their mobile home. Mark said: “They don’t like being away from me much, so it made sense to bring them along for the trip.” But how do the cats take care of life’s essentials? Mark explained: “There’s a cat litter tray inside the trailer, so I just Missy empty it as we go along.” Follow Missy and Smudge’s life in the slow lane on www.aroundbritain.org
Email your hi-res photos to
Just look at me now!
pawprints@islandnewsandadvertiser.com
Unlike other weight loss options, you’re never on your own with Cambridge Weight Plan. You'll have your own Cambridge Consultant who will support you through every step of your weight loss journey and explain the very real benefits of our flexible programmes.
with your name and address,your pet’s name and anything you’d like to say about them.
Then look out for your photo on
IN&A’s Paw Print page over the coming months! Your Independent Cambridge Consultant:
+8 8 ¼|8 | ´ Î f·Î ¸ÎÀ·r· ± η··Î ·r ·
Fern MacDonald of Flodda on her cheeky pony Jack.
´8 | ´ ¡O8 F± XtaDt 8 ¡O ± ±a Xa¼8 ´ 8 X ¼ 8 a 8 8 a ¼V Á´¼ O8 a
t + ¼ aÈ ´ ? 8±± ´ Anna before
Anna after You should always speak to your doctor before starting any weight loss programme.
Nice save, Bruno. The shaggy goalie lives with Sarah MacDonald in Grimsay, North Uist.
July 2013 Issue 16 - island news & ADVERTISER
27
THE ADVERTISER YOUR NEW DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES To advertise in this new section please call 01870 602151 ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.com Accommodation An Taigh Fiodh, Grimsay Luxurious self-catering apartment www.grimsay.com Call Heather 01870 602943
Building and Roofing Contractors
Car Commercials Plant & Marine Repairs
Grass cutting/small plant repairs
Licensed Tearoom and Shop
New builds, Renovations, Roof specialists. Archie Beaton Tel: 01871 890 374 Mob: 07788 263 080
Available for Hire 15 to 57 Seater Buses 6M Luton Vans. HEBCO Howmore, Isle of South Uist Tel: 01870 620 345 Mob: 07900 806 638
David’s Garden Machinery Grass cutting, small plant repairs, hires tel: 01870 603833 mob: 07880 743437 bagleyr@supanet.com
Groceries, Gifts, Snacks Summer evening meals Ardmaree Stores The Lobster Pot, Berneray Tel: 01876 540288
Agricultural Contractor & Plant Hire Digger & Tractor Hire, Landscaping, Access Roads, Agricultural Sheds, Building Sand, Gravel, Concreting John Allan MacLellan Tel: 01876 510304 Mob: 07786 430989
Business Services
Cycle Shop
The Western Isles Occupational Health, Safety and Business Support Consultancy. Sandwick Management Systems Call Donald on 07788 963497 Email: donald@sandwicksystems.co.uk
Cycle hire, sales, repairs. Rothan Cycles Tel: 01870 620283 rothan@hebrides.net www.rothan.com
Western Isles Citizens Advice Service
Barra 01871 810608 Uist 01870 602421 Harris 01859 502431 Lewis 01851 705727
Hairdresser Shear Design Unisex salon Bayhead, North Uist Call Joanne 07825 741436
Alasdair Allan MSP SNP 31 Bayhead, Stornoway, Lewis. E: alasdair.allan.msp @scottish.parliament.uk T:01870 602287 (Uist & Barra) 01851 702272 (Lewis & Harris)
Graphic Designers Painter and Decorator
Insurance Services Island Grasscutting N. Uist - Berneray - Grimsay Call Tom: 0794 7910562
Money Advice 01870 603807 and 01851 700088
Skinners Decor Painting & Decorating DIY Shop Howden’s Kitchens Tel: 01870 602423
MSP Western Isles
Hebridean Graphics t: 01876 500469 / 07836 640524 www.hebrideangraphics.com
Grasscutters
Painter/Decorator
Are you paying over the odds for your insurance? Let us offer you a great deal on your personal and business insurance. Call us now for a no obligation quotation Tel: 01870 60 22 22 email: info@macleodinsurance.co.uk Macleod Insurance Services
All types of decoration undertaken. Ally MacKenzie Tel: 01870 602725 Mob: 07723013884
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Photographic Printing & Graphic Design Clothing, Workwear Canvas, Photo Restoration Balloons & Banners Custom Prints 01870 602515
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Sign Makers
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Signage - Vehicle livery - Labels Design - Manufacture - Install Hebridean Graphics t: 01876 500469 / 07836 640524 www.hebrideangraphics.com
Opportunities for Learning Cothrom Ltd Tel: 01878 700910 www.cothrom.net
Have 4 lines
TV, Satellite & Broadband
in the directory for as little as
TV aerials & satellite Satellite broadband Call Steve: 07967 086145
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Vegetables & Flowers
Taxis Airport, ferry, school runs Staff runs & small contracts 24/7 service Menzies Private Hire Tel: 07833 357241 www.mph247.co.uk
Taxis Isle of Barra local taxi Tel: 01871 810012 Mobile: 07974 071255
Sewing Services
Taxis
Dressmaking, Alterations Upholstery, Digital Embroidery The Sewing Studio Tel: 07767 838823
Prompt Reliable Service Sketch’s Taxis Tel: 01870 603427 Mob: 07909 637161
Bunait Beautiful bedding plants & vegetable seedlings Wednesdays from 12.00 Knockintorran Fridays from 17.00 Sollas Co-op Tel: 07746 117762
Vegetables & Flowers Weekly supply of Uist grown salad leaves, veg & herbs Bogsa Uibhist-Uist Veg Box Tel: 07720 634343
Window cleaner Window cleaner/odd jobs Berneray,North Uist,Benbecula Call Colin 01876 540252
Have your business seen throughout the islands for as little as £66 PER YEAR. Flat rate £2 per line, minimum three lines, minimum eleven insertions. Call 01870 602151/ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.com to book your space.
JULY REFUSE COLLECTION SCHEDULE FOR UISTS & BARRA Barra Refuse Collection – July 2013
REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTIONS IN HARRIS JULY
Criochan, Brevig, Skallary, Leanish, Earsary, Bolnabodach, Bruernish, Northbay, Ardveenish, Ardmhor, Airport, Eoligarry
Tuesday 2/16/30 July Residual Collection
UIST
Thursday 4 July, 18 July Residual Collection
East Gerinish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmore, Creagorry, Liniclate & Liniclate School,Torlum, Hacklet, Uiskevagh, Petersport,West Camp, Balivanich, Locheport, Berneray, Clachan Sands,Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Lochmaddy, Minish, Blashaval, Uachdar, Dunganichy.
Shops, Hotels, Hospital, Castlebay School, Vatersay, Heather Hill,Tangasdale, Borve Craigston, Allasdale, Cuithir, Grean, Cleat, Northbay Inn
Mondays 1/29 July - Paper/Card 15 July - Blue Bin
Tuesdays 2/16/30 July - Residual
Langass Lodge, Hougharry, Middlequarter, Lochmaddy Commercials, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Gramsdale, Griminish, Nonton, Aird, Muir of Aird.
Mondays 22 July - Paper/Card 8 July - Blue Bin Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Balranald,Tigharry, Lochmaddy Commercials, Hougharry, Hosta, Sollas, Middlequarter, Grenitote, Langass Lodge, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Nunton, Aird, Muir of Aird, Gramsdale, Griminish
Tuesdays 9/23 July - Residual Stoneybridge,Locheynort,Daliburgh,Lochboisdale,Garryhellie,Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Howbeg, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, East Gernish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmor, Creagorry, Liniclate, Liniclate School,Torlum.
Criochan, Brevig, Skallary, Leanish, Earsary, Bolnabodach, Bruernish, Northbay, Ardveenish, Ardmhor, Airport, Eoligarry, Northbay Inn, Grean, Cleat, Cuithir, Allasdale
Monday 22 July, Paper/card 8 July Blue Bin
Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Daliburgh Commercials and Daliburgh West of, Kilphedar, Strome, Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Rangehead, Hacklet Eastwards, Uiskevagh, Petersport,West Camp, Balivanich/Aird, Creagorry Commercials, Liniclate Commercials, Liniclate Muir, Uachdar, Dunganichy.
Glen, Garrygall, Ledaig, Castlebay Shops, Hotels, Hospital, Castlebay School, Horve, Kentangaval, Nask,Vatersay, Heatherhill,Tangasdale, Borve, Craigston
Tuesday 9 July Blue Bin 23 July Paper/card
Wednesday 3/31 July - Blue Bin 17 July - Paper/Card
Wednesdays 10 July - Blue Bin 24 July - Paper/Card
Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Dalibrugh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Howbeg, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, Liniclate Commercials, Balivanich Commercials.
Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, Daliburgh Commercials, Daliburgh- West of Borrodale Hotel, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Kilphedar, Strome, Rangehead, DI, IOBHH.
Glen, Garrygall, Ledaig, Castlebay Shops, Hotels, Hospital, Castlebay School, Horve, Kentangaval, Nask,
Thursday 11 July, 25 July Residual Collection
Thursdays 4/18 July - Residual Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Sollas, Hosta,Tigharry, Grenitote, Ahmore, Balranald,
Thursdays 11/25 July - Residual Locheport, Berneray, Clachan Sands,Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Blashaval, Minish, Lochmaddy Commercials, Bayhead, Paible, Claddach, Clachan, Carinish, Balivanich.
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Inverness, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bergen (Summer only)
Barra, Stornoway, Glasgow
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Inverness, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Sumburgh
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Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Benbecula
Colonsay, Oban, Glasgow
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Inverness
Barra
Tiree
Islay
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