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30th December FIDDLERS' HOGMANAY EVENTS CANCELLED  Here is the news from Fiddler’s. Our water supply has been frozen since the 27th. This has led to us having to cancel our Hogmanay. We have contacted our bookings for the 31st and wish everyone all the best for 2011. Jon & Karen Beach Fiddler’s |
29th December DONALD PAUL MACKINTOSH - PLUMBER  We welcome our first plumber to the website with grateful thanks that he is supporting the running of this website. Please use his services in return. Click for the Plumbers' Page Despite our best efforts we still have no builders, no musicians, no language or instrument tutors, general handymen, gardeners or landscape gardeners. No mechanics or garages, some pubs are even missing! Do you run one of these types of businesses, this website needs your support. The cost is minimal, but lots of small sums go a long, long way. See the membership page. |
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Early New Year's Wishes FROM HAUSGAUEN TO DRUMNADROCHIT  Hello Drumnadrochit, To all our dears, I think you had a hard time for Christmas with all that snow. We were in Brasil to get some sun. We would like to send you all our best wishes for the 2011 and may our relationship grow. HAPPY NEW YEAR love to all Brigitte and Sergio |
29th December COBBS BAKEHOUSE  We welcome the Cobbs Bakehouse as a new member. Do please support member businesses are they are essential to make this website work. Click for the Catering Companies' Page This news page is a great way to tell people about your products if you have a news story to give us. There is also a special offers section at top right, job offers at top left, anyone wanting work can post their details in the Work Wanted section. It would be nice to post some new baby pictures or wedding pictures and don't forget our readers' pictures section which is a little bare. Some of you must have taken a photograph you are proud of in the recent weather? |
29th December PUZZLED?  Wondering where the older news items have gone? Look at the top of the index on the right of the page. |
28th December HOGMANAY SHINTY EVENT CANCELLED  A FROZEN PITCH HAS CAUSED THE CANCELLATION OF THE ZANDRA MACKINTOSH SHINTY TOURNAMENT ON 28TH DECEMBER. |
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25th December CHRISTMAS RNLI VISITOR  The RNLI welcomed a new volunteer this week. While he was somewhat cold hearted at first with a dreadful cold as his nose portrays, he eventually melted into the job and, if the weather holds, will be seen around the village for some weeks to come! |
THE BOARD OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WISH EVERYONE IN THE GLEN A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS |
HOGMANY OPENING HOURS FIDDLER'S  Our water supply has been frozen since the 27th. This has led to us having to cancel our Hogmanay. We have contacted our bookings for the 31st and wish everyone all the best for 2011. Jon & Karen Beach Fiddler’s Fiddler’s will be open from the 28th to the 2nd for Lunches and Dinners (Closed on the 1st). We have tables available for Hogmanay. On the 2nd at 2.30 the Pipe Band will be playing at Fiddler’s at our usual Soup’n’Scoop Whisky Tasting. For £10 you will get a bowl of soup and a wee selection of Malts. Have a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Jon & Karen and all at Fiddler’s |
20th December DRUIMLON SWITCH ON  SWITCHING ON OF THE TREE LIGHTS AT DRUIMLON, DRUMNADROCHIT MONDAY 20TH DECEMBER 2010 [Click the picture above to see more in a separate window] We have FIVE STARS to thank for this special occasion, and all of you for being there. Firstly - Imogen James who switched on the lights Secondly – Archie Drennan who accompanied Imogen by playing Jingle Bells on his bagpipes Thirdly – both Alister (Sandy) Wemys and Allan Ness (Nessie) for restoring Druimlon’s Tree lights Fourthly – John Beaton (Highland Council Lighting Section) for making it possible Finally – Phil Downie for filming the MAGICAL MOMENTS.
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HOGMANY FESTIVAL NEWS FOR DETAILS OF EACH EVENT SEE GLEN'S DIARYTuesday 28th December 11am to 3pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - URQUHART CASTLE EVENT PART ONECANCELLEDTuesday 28th December 12.30pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - ZANDRA MACKINTOSH MEMORIAL SHINTY TOURNAMENTCANCELLED Wednesday 29th December 11am to 3pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - URQUHART CASTLE EVENT PART TWOWednesday 29th 7pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - ABRIACHAN VILLAGE HALLWednesday 29th December 8.30pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - FOLK SESSIONS AT THE BENLEVA HOTELThursday 30th December 11am to 3pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - URQUHART CASTLE EVENT PART THREEThursday 30th December 8.30pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - STEVE'S PUB QUIZ AT THE BENLEVA HOTELFriday 31st December 11am to 3pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - URQUHART CASTLE EVENT FINAL PARTFriday 31st December 10pm - 1amMONSTER STREET PARTY - DRUMNADROCHIT CAR PARKSaturday 1st January 2011 7pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - GHILLIES LAIR RESTAURANT AT THE GLENURQUHART HOUSE HOTELSunday 2nd January 12.30pmHOGMANAY FESTIVAL - ANNUAL NEW YEAR DUCK RACEFOR DETAILS OF EACH EVENT SEE GLEN'S DIARY |
20th December DRUMNADROCHIT POST OFFICE & SHOP OPENING TIMES  Fri 24th Christmas Eve Shop 6:00am - 7:00pm PO Closes Early 4:00pm Sat 25th Christmas Day Shop 11:00am - 2:00pm PO Closed Sun 26th Boxing Day Shop 8:00am - 6:00pm PO Closed Mon 27th-Tues 28th Shop 7:00am - 7:00pm PO Closed Wed 29th-Thu 30th Shop 6:00am - 7:00pm PO Normal Hours Fri 31st Auld Years Night Shop 11:00am - 2:00pm PO Closes Early 4:00pm Sat 1st Jan New Year's Day Shop 8:00am - 6:00pm PO Closed Sun 2nd Jan Shop 8:00am - 6:00pm PO Closed Mon 3rd Jan-Tues 4th Jan Shop 7:00am - 7:00pm PO Closed Weds 5th January Normal Hours Shop 6:00am-7:00pm PO Normal Hours I'm sure everyone in the village and glen would like to thank the Post Office staff for the effort they have put in over this difficult period.
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19th December POPPY APPEAL TAKINGS  Don Dayman reports that they collected a massive £1,871.20 during the glen's poppy appeal.
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14th December SCOTTISH AMBULANCE SERVICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED 
A Community First Responder is a member of the public who volunteers to help their community by responding to medical emergencies while the ambulance is on its way. All volunteers receive specialist training and equipment so that they can provide an early intervention before the arrival of the professional ambulance crew. Anyone who wishes to help their community can volunteer and no previous medical experience is necessary, although you will need a caring attitude and the ability to deal with potentially distressing situations. You will be trained in the use of automatic external defibrillators, oxygen therapy and a wide range of emergency skills, including how to assist in life threatening situations such as heart or asthma attack. To become a volunteer first responder you must: • Be least 18 years old, be able to drive and have access to a car; • Be able to demonstrate and maintain a level of fitness to meet the role; • Be an effective communicator with good interpersonal skills; • Be able to demonstrate logical approach; • Be able Work under pressure, yet stay calm; • Have a desire to learn; • Reside or work in the area in which the scheme is based; • Be able to respond without delay to incidents; • Complete a criminal records check (Enhanced Disclosure Scotland check); • Have some first aid knowledge (not essential); • Be able to commit long term to the role. If you are interested in becoming a Community First Responder you should contact Keri Westall (telephone 07725 882 711) or Mhairi Marshall Interviews and training to be held in January 2011 |
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14th December DESMOND (Des) MACMILLAN  Des passed away peacefully on 10th December 2010 after a short illness. Des was born at Lennie Cottage, Lennie just beyond Urquhart Castle and lived all his life (72 years) in the Glen. He was an electrician for most of his life when he could be seen driving about in a pink van. His other modes of transport were a motorbike and latterly a push-bike. After being an electrician he helped in various places as a handyman doing lots of good work. Des was a quiet man and worked away quietly and diligently no matter what he did. Latterly he was very much involved in environmental projects in and around the village and did much to help Drumnadrochit win the Beautiful in Bloom competitions etc. If you didn't know him his face would still have been familiar as he would be seen around all the time with his trusty litter picker keeping the village spick and span. Des was a great listener and had a wonderful memory about people and could relate most interesting stories about locals past and present. He had a quiet but nice sense of humour and will be sorely missed by all his friends close or otherwise and the Glen will be a sadder place without him. Des’s funeral is on Tuesday 21st December 2010 at 2pm in the Church of Scotland at New Kilmore, Drumnadrochit, and he will be buried in the New Kilmore Cemetery nearby. All friends and those who know him are most welcome.
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December CAROL SERVICES - SEE IMPORTANT NOTE IN RED BELOW  The Christmas Day service is on Saturday, 25th. December at 11am. All are most welcome at any or all of our services. Contact Rev. Holly Hutchens on 01456 450158 to check in case of adverse weather conditions. NOTE THAT THE TWO SERVICES BELOW HAVE BEEN CANCELLED 5pm Sunday 19th December at St Ninian's Episcopal Church, by Loch Meikle, Glen Urquhart Do you enjoy a good sing? Do you want to be part of the traditional Christmas festivities? Then come along to our Carol Service and join us afterwards in partaking of mulled wine and mince pies at Balnain Hall. You don’t even need to be a believer to join us. You will be made very welcome. The Christmas Eve service will be held on Friday, 24th December at 9pm. The Christmas Day service is on Saturday, 25th. December at 11am. All are most welcome at any or all of our services. Contact Rev. Holly Hutchens on 01456 450158 to check in case of adverse weather conditions.
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11th December CHAMBER NEWS  Willie "The Rat" Cameron was summoned to the Chamber Board Meeting on 6th December to be presented with a unique fruit bowl, lovingly crafted by the Loch Ness Clay Works, complete with rat! Drumnadrochit Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Association Board & Marketing Committee Meeting 6th December 2010 at the Loch Ness Inn. Present: Tony Harmsworth (Chair), Alan Darbyshire, George Edwards, Gillian Skinner, Allan Spence, Vivian Bailey (Minutes Sec) Apologies: Graham Anderson, Carol Hughes Path from Drumnadrochit to Loch Ness The route to Loch Ness from the village will now be taken up with Destination Loch Ness at their next meeting in January. Drumnadrochit.info Website postcards have been delivered in the village, but Pat and Don have been unable to do Glen Urquhart and Cannich owing to the condition of the roads. It is hoped that will be done by Christmas. Once the cards have been delivered everywhere the website index categories will be reduced in number, so businesses should join up quickly if they are undecided. Information panel in TIC car park The Board commented positively on the appearance of the new photos as background so this will be progressed to complete the other sides before Easter. Members wanting posters in the notice board should hand them in to the Nessieland Castle Monster Centre instead of the Loch Ness Lodge Hotel during the winter. Craigmonie Woodland Association The Craigmonie Woodland Association have written to ask if they can transfer their website info to the chamber website. The board agreed and their new page is now on-line here. Leaflet Brochure The brochure sub-committee were unable to meet owing to the weather. It is hoped to set up a new meeting shortly. Any other business It was reported that a large number of members have offered discounts for any visitors from Hausgauen and this will be advised to Hausgauen in the new year. Any chamber members who haven’t offered Hausgauen discounts still have time to submit them to admin@drumnadrochit.info. The discounts will be offered to Hausgauen visitors in advance and also a printed sheet of discount vouchers given to them on arrival in the village. This is a good opportunity for tourist businesses and shops etc to show their support. A similar project is being considered for a US town. There was some discussion about the new signage for Lochend, Dores and Fort Augustus which is being organised by Destination Loch Ness. Details have been released for circulation to chamber members and will go out shortly by email. It was reported that the South Loch Ness Trail is now well underway also owing to funding organised by Destination Loch Ness. World Travel Fair Some directors commented that the VisitScotland stand was unprofessional in contrast to their excellent TV advertisement campaign. Networking events it was agreed that the last networking meeting had a good balance of presentation to chat. A date for a promotion event for taxi drivers was discussed: 18th April 2011 was suggested, and a format similar to a previous event was proposed. Presentation to The Rat As mentioned above, ex-board member, Willie Cameron was welcomed to the meeting. The chairman thanked him on behalf of the Chamber for his many years of service and presented him with the bowl commissioned from the Loch Ness Clay Works Pottery.  Willie thanked the Board and Chamber very much and commented on local projects that he is still working on. He loved the rat! The meeting closed at 5pm, with thanks being made to the Loch Ness Inn for their hospitality. Next meeting on Monday 10th January, 4pm, at Kilmore Farmhouse. The meeting is for board members only. If members have something they would like raised please tell one of the directors. |
10th December GLEN URQUHART HIGH SCHOOL NEWS  The school's basketball team had a resounding victory over Kilchuimen.  Chicago, the Christmas School Show starring Kirsty Lloyd, Saphire Sidaway and James Leak, has been heralded as a great success. It was well received by audiences over three nights. |
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10th December CRAIGMONIE WOODLAND ASSOCIATION  Drumnadrochit.info is pleased to welcome the Craigmonie Woodland Association who have decided to take advantage of our free web page for local voluntary organisations. Visit their webpage to discover more about what they do for the local community. Perhaps you might like to join them. If any other local organisations would like to avail themselves of a page on this site please write to the Chamber of Commerce at this address. |
m7th December FIREFIGHTERS WANTED  Potential firefighters are being sought to join the Drumnadrochit retained unit. Applicants should be able to provide daytime cover and be physically fit. The closing date is the 10th January and application packs can be picked up at the Harbour road main office. |
5th December SANTA IN TOWN - or NOT AS THE CASE MAY BE  DRUMNADROCHIT CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTS SWITCH-ON Reports are arriving at the news room that Santa took a bend too fast coming down from the North Pole and overturned the sleigh. Currently it is believed that teams of elves are working hard to repackage all the presents in time for 24th December. Beauly police have confirmed that Santa passed the breath test so no further action will be taken. We're now advised unofficially that the "official" switch on will be on 20th, although they are already lit and looking good, but, hey we want that mulled wine and those mince pies! |
1st December NEW MEMBER  FRES' HAIR SALON Fres' Hair caters for the whole family - this includes gents, ladies, teenagers and children. We do perms, colours, cuts, restyles, bridal, first haircuts, colour corrections and hair and scalp advice. The team continually trains and participates in courses to keep up with trends without losing the personal touch. Everyone is important to us. Hairdressers. Drumnadrochit.info and the Chamber of Commerce welcomes Roz Bullard and her hair salon as the latest member. Only local businesses are allowed on this site and not only does it create extra business for the member, but it also provides a source of funds to ensure this site is kept up to date for the whole community. So, if you run any sort of business, please join, reap the benefits and show that you support this website's objectives. |
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26th November TIMBER LOAD SHED ON BUNLOIT ROAD  Bunloit resident Mikko Takala has called for warning signs on the Bunloit road to prevent enormous lorries driving up unaware of the sort of bends they will encounter. This follows the shedding of a load of timber for a house after a lorry got into difficulties on the severe bends. It took hours to clear the road. |
26th November LOCH NESS MONSTER PICTURE  Richard Preston, a landscape gardener at Aldourie Castle took this photograph which has been suggested, by some, to be the Loch Ness Monster. Adrian Shine believes it might show reflections. If not, could it mean there is now an albino Loch Ness monster in for a visit? |
25th November GLENURQUHART GREENSPACE ACTIVITY  The minutes of this group's meeting on 15th November have been released. See their website. They include discussion of Balnain paths, their website, Drumnadrochit play park, bridge across the River Coiltie, business plan, funding, Rychraggan path, dog waste, newsletter, Balnain play park and more. |
24th November CHRISTMAS FAIR THIS SATURDAY  Mamie Girvan writes: "The Glenurquhart Care Project are to be holding their 15th Christmas Food and Craft Fair in Blairbeg Hall, Drumnadrochit on Saturday 27th November from 10am to 4pm. "The Fair was the idea of Pierre Lebrun for local quality craft workers to be given an opportunity to display their work. "Crafters pay for their table and with an entry fee of 50p, which includes refreshments, and a raffle the proceeds go to the Glenurquhart Centre. "For a number of years now any monies raised have gone towards the cost of Christmas events for the Centre clients. "For a few years we have also had food available as well as lots of gifts so an ideal opportunity to do some Christmas shopping." More information call Mamie: 476367 strong> |
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23rd November CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ACTIVITY  Drumnadrochit Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Association Board & Marketing Committee Meeting 1st November 2010 at the Loch Ness Lodge Hotel. Present: Tony Harmsworth (Chair) Graham Anderson, Alan Darbyshire Carol Hughes, Gillian Skinner, Vivian Bailey (Minutes Sec) Apologies: George Edwards, Allan Spence Suggestion for route from Drumnadrochit to Loch: Tony Harmsworth had met with Margaret Davidson. The main issue seems to be cost and Greenspace are looking at the possibilities of a path too. Tony Harmsworth will ask Destination Loch Ness if it is the sort of project they might adopt when the South Loch Ness Trail is complete. Promotion at Castle: After the recent Castle Liaison Meeting, Euan Fraser, Tony Harmsworth and Margaret Davidson had a further meeting and the castle have agreed in principle to allow more promotion of the village within the castle visitor centre. Tony Harmsworth is coming up with a draft design for it. Margaret Davidson is looking to see if there is a possibility of any funding for this and Graham Anderson is looking out images which could be used in a DVD or USB device in the castle stairwell. Wellington Layby: Margaret Davidson has reported via Tony Harmsworth that Transport Scotland Bridges & Structures have purchased the land from Lord Burton and are now responsible for the layby: however, it is unlikely that they will effect repairs in the foreseeable future. Discussion took place as to where this layby should appear in the Chamber’s priorities and it was decided not to prioritise it immediately. It was felt that the layby was on the fringe of the Chamber’s responsibilities. Hausgauen: A large event may be possible in 2012, but for now it has been decided to offer discounts for Hausgauen visitors over during the coming year and members will be contacted about this to get their response. Brochure: Mary Beedham and Sarah Tree were welcomed to the meeting to discuss the new brochure. Carol Hughes had brought along some other leaflets for comparison/ideas. The following points were made: • The maps are a selling point, and should be retained. • One third A4 size is best for racks. • The brochure needs to get into the hands of potential visitors before they come to Drum, so it needs to be more widely distributed in Scotland and perhaps as far south as the Borders and main English TIC’s. • The brochure should be available as a downloadable PDF form on the website, with links to it from member’s websites. It was agreed that a Sub-Committee comprising Tony Harmsworth, Carol Hughes and Sarah Tree will decide on format, find a designer and printer then seek advertisers. This Website: The final stage in the launch of this site is the delivery of a postcard to every property in the area and this should be complete by the end of November. The index of trades will then be shortened on the website once we have had feedback from the postcard. Any other business: Photographs for the car park info board are being printed. The possibility of a second board in the Morning Noon & Night/Drum Takeaway car park was also discussed. The meeting closed at 16.20, with thanks being made to Gillian Skinner for the excellent hospitality. Next board meeting on Monday 6th December, 4pm Loch Ness Inn. |
23rd November READERS' PHOTOGRAPHS This page is now live. Find it in the index at right.  Joyce Joy has suggested a section for reader's photographs. Please send images, no larger than 700k to Readers Photos and I'll put them up on a new page. No more than three from any individual at first so that we can gauge the interest. No restriction at this stage other than they should have been taken in the Highlands of Scotland. |
22nd November RACE TO INFINITY  One or two readers have written to me saying that they got a message like the following when they tried to sign up for the Race To Infinity programme. Sorry but your exchange is not eligible to win The Race to Infinity as it has fewer than 1000 premises. Please don't let this stop you. It is important to still continue and register your vote as it gives us leverage in the future. This is the link information: Please go to the site and do it now, before you forget - www.bt.com/racetoinfinity even if you are happy with your current broadband speed. |
22nd November SUGGESTION FOR NEW GROUP  We have received this suggestion for a new group in the glen. If you are interested please contact Frank Drake davidfdrake123 @btinternet.com or 459376 directly. "I am looking to get together with a local group of like minded spiritually aware people to encourage and develop individual and community spirit and spirituality in a non religious way. It would be nice if anyone interested could contact me. "I really don't want to be too specific on this issue because what happens and where any such group goes will depend entirely on the people who take part and on the knowledge, skills and expectations they bring to the group. "Personally I would like to explore and develop some of the ideas and concepts that James Redfield has promulgated in his various publications and in particular the Experiential Guide to the Celestine Prophecy. "I would also like to explore the possibility of developing some of the ideas put forward by Evelyn Underhill over 100 years ago regarding the spiritual education of our young people. I would also hope that there might be some discussion on the relevance of religion in a modern world where so much killing and injustice is perpetrated in the name of religion even though every major religion claims to abhor violence. "In any event if it turns out that enough people would be interested, I would hire a room to have a first meeting to discuss what ideas people have and where they see the group going. "Obviously if no one is interested there is little point. I hope this is enough for you to run with. "Cheers, "Frank Drake" davidfdrake123 @btinternet.com 459376 |
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22nd November GLEN URQUHART HIGH SCHOOL  LoLou MacGregor (S5 media student) reports that S6 pupil, Louise Graham, has been awarded a grant from the Royal Geographic Society to work on an overseas gap year project next year. After finding out about the grant at a society summer school last year, Louise applied for it in May and went for an interview earlier this month. The scheme is only open to Advanced Higher and A-Level geography students and only 14 students receive the award last year. Louise has chosen to volunteer in South Africa and said, "I want to work in schools in townships, teaching English or being a classroom support teacher." After the trip, she plans to study geography at the Glasgow University, then go on to be a geography teacher.  S4 pupil Anna Nelson has been selected along with two other athletes from Inverness, to attend the Bank of Scotland National Countdown Camp. It focuses on practical coaching towards the 2012 Olympic Games and the 2014 Commonwealth Games.  Richard Gurry (S3), Fiona Hunt (S4), Lizzie Smart (S4) and John Wilkes (S4) attended the National Youth Enterprising Mathematics Competition in Glasgow University to represent Glen Urquhart High School amongst 58 other schools. [Does anyone know how they got on?]  Ten of the school's Young Enterprise Group attended Ironworks in Inverness last week for the Dragon's Den section of this year's young enterprise competition. The group will be making jewellery and cards. |
19th November DRUMNADROCHIT MEDICAL PRACTICE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION GROUP  For those who don't know of this group, here is their functions document. Functions of the CPG 1. Health Promotion Contact/discuss and arrange schemes/events with the school, GURCA, Council (Margaret Davidson)- exercise referral schemes etc. The School Nurse would like continued support/funding, i.e. recording BMIs (Body Mass Index) 2. Feedback to the Practice - patient feedback questionnaires (discuss with practice/help with future ones) - discussion of complaints - Community suggestions – how to tackle extended hours, Saturday morning surgeries etc.r /> 3. Linking in with Locality/CHP Functions - attending meetings, feeding into public consultation events etc. 4. Working with the Practice - helping to develop the new surgery, communication be email etc. - services provided See the meeting details for 29th November under "Events". |
17th November GALE FORCE WINDS AGAIN Severe gales were lashing Loch Ness today and a call from Martin (RNLI) inspired me to take some video. Not very steady, I'm afraid. Best watched on YouTube. |
17th November BROADBAND URGENT APPEAL  Christine Hart sent me a note with a gentle reminder that if you have not registered on BT's Race To Infinity then the whole area could miss out. She recently checked the site and found that not many people in the village have signed up. To emphasise her concern, this really does not take long to do and costs you absolutely nothing. If we get the exchange updated it will open high speed broadband up, not just to BT customers, but to those who use some other suppliers too. THIS REALLY IS NOT THE TIME FOR APATHY YET ONLY 8% HAVE VOTED. Although it says we are below the 1,000 user limit, if we can get a high response it gives us lots of leverage for the future. Please go to the site and do it now, before you forget - www.bt.com/racetoinfinity even if you are happy with your current broadband speed. Please think of others and those at the furthest reaches of the exchange who can get less than 0.5mb. |
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13th November NEW MEMBER  Torran Business ServicesDr. Mike Johnson has worked as an accountant and business consultant since 1976. In that time, he has established, built up and sold 2 successful business service companies before moving to Drumnadrochit in 2003. Prior to 1976, he held a variety of senior management posts in manufacturing and service industries.See his entries under Accountants and Consultants. Members get an entry on this site, on our tourist website VisitDrumnadrochit.com, a slot on the village car park notice board, updates from Destination Loch Ness as associate members and an advert in the Virtual Scottish Highlands. Members also benefit from Chamber Networking events. |
12th November GLEN URQUHART HIGH SCHOOL  The school's under 15 hockey team took part in the Highland Schools Hockey Tournament and came third out of ten teams. From this team Ryan Anderson, Calum Smart and James Leak have been chosen to go to Highland District Training.
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11th November REMEMBRANCE DAY  Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the official end of World War I on that date in 1918, as the major hostilities of World War I were formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice. Sunday 14th November 10.45amSERVICE
Armistice Day is celebrated in the village on 14th November. There will be a short service of remembrance at 10.45am on the 14th at the War Memorial in Drumnadrochit. All very welcome.
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10th November Loch Ness lifeboat crewmember, Vivian Bailey featured in book on women in the RNLI  A book which chronicles the role of women in the RNLI has just been published and shows how women have been vital to the lifesaving role of the charity since it was formed in 1824. Hidden Depths: Women of the RNLI, tells the story from when it was considered unlucky to have women on a boat up to the present day when, nationally, 8% of crew are women. At Loch Ness RNLI it is an impressive 30%. In the early days, women would have the physically demanding role of launching and recovering lifeboats from beaches and slipways, but since 1969 women have been part of the operational crews. The book's author, Sue Hennessey, worked for the RNLI for 7 years and was the founding principle of the state of the art lifeboat college in Poole, Dorset, where all crew and shore teams go for specialist training. Loch Ness RNLI volunteer crewmember Vivian Bailey says, "I am honoured and privileged to be included in this magnificent book." She added, "At Loch Ness RNLI lifeboat station we have probably the youngest and the oldest serving female lifeboat crewmembers." Vivian played a key role in a recent medical emergency on a Loch Ness cruise boat in which a woman became severely ill with a breathing related illness. Along with her crewmate, she was able to give vital first aid and assist the woman until the boat was met by an ambulance. The training and equipment given to RNLI crew is entirely funded by donations from the public. Legacies provide the funds for 6 out of every 10 lifeboat launches. Vivian is also the Future Crew youth training coordinator at Loch Ness RNLI and is a geography teacher. In what spare time remains she is the minutes' secretary of the Drumnadrochit Chamber of Commerce. Further details can be obtained by contacting Martin Douglas by email or on 07788-414254 |
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10th November VICTORIA COBB DIES  The Community Association notes with regret the death in the south of England of Mrs Victoria Cobb, widow of John Cobb. In September 1952 she accompanied her husband to the area for his ill-fated attempt on the World Water Speed Record. Despite obviously painful memories of the event, she made a very generous donation to the Community Association for the maintenance of the Cobb Memorial at Achnahannet. In 2002 the Glenurquhart Heritage Group commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the event by staging an Exhibition and publishing a booklet, "John Cobb Remembered". Copies of this booklet can be obtained at £2 from Jan Bell (450227) |
7th/8th November STORM FORCE WINDS  Storm force winds overnight saw a number of trees brought down including one on Borlum brae and another on the A82 beside the castle car park. They closed the road until cleared. |
7th November INVERNESS TV  What do you think? Send in an email with your views. Inverness TV |
6th November Remember, remember the 5th November; Gunpowder, treason and plot; I see no reason why gunpowder, treason; Should ever be forgot ...  Katie & Emily Kearns and hundreds of others braved the drizzly evening to attend the Community Association's celebration of Guy Fawkes' night. (Thanks to Mark Kearns for these snaps)  The excitement built as the stewards struggled to light a very stubborn bonfire, but eventually it burst into flames in a fairly calm night sky. The fireworks were well chosen with some ear splitting cracks and flashes which the retina will still be remembering at Christmas. A great evening, but it was interesting that I heard a child of about 10 or 12 ask why there was a man on the fire. Is it no longer PC to talk about Guy Fawkes and his plot? If you have a view on this news item, or anything else related to the village and glens, send it in for our proposed letters' page.
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4th November NEW MEMBERS SO FAR SINCE JUNE THIS YEAR It is the membership which keeps this website running. The following have joined since the AGM in June. If you run a business in the glen please join. Benefits can be seen at the bottom of this news item. Aslaich B&B Baking Birds - Cakes & Catering David Menzies - Electrical Contractor Donald MacLeod - Joinery Great Glen Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Great Glen Pharmacy Harmsworth Consultancy Marketing & Web Design Highland Trekking & Trail Riding (Cannich) Loch Ness Smokehouse Richard O'Reardon Driving School SB Works Consultants Springburn B&B Membership Details Members appear on this website, also on www.VisitDrumnadrochit.com, our tourist site, they are entitled to put a poster in the main notice board in the Drumnadrochit Car Park, a listing in the new brochure (currently being prepared) and are featured in the Virtual Scottish Highlands.
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3rd November ANOTHER BROADBAND FAILURE  If you have friends telling you they are still off, tell them to reboot their router/hub. It looks like BT may be still having problems with its Edinburgh exchange, after parts of the UK lost their internet again in a spooky repeat of Saturday’s broadband failure. This afternoon parts of the Highlands of Scotland and north of England were affected by an outage lasting nearly two hours. Customers of ISP’s who use BT lines would also have been impacted, on top of BT’s own. This echoes problems BT reported with its exchange on Saturday evening, with parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and north England losing broadband until Sunday morning. While BT claimed the problem had been fixed, many reports came in to Techwatch of problems still continuing for some people. As Techwatch's own offices lost their internet connection this afternoon, with reports coming in again from previously affected areas, the conclusion is that BT just have not fixed the problem properly – so far. It remains to be seen whether northerners will continue to face intermittent internet problems this week if the issue has still not been properly resolved. One thing is clear is that BT will have more explaining to do as to why it can no longer maintain a reliable internet connection across swathes of the UK. If you have friends telling you they are still off, tell them to reboot their router/hub. |
2nd November CHAMBER NETWORKING MEETING At Blairbeg Hall on Tuesday evening nearly thirty members of the Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Association - who finance and manage this Village and Glen Website - met to hear Russell Thomson, Highland Waterways Manager for British Waterways Board, talk about their new initiative to take timber lorries of the road and put them on the canal.  There was plenty of time for informal chat and questions. Russell is in shirt sleeves above. The current trial is removing about 40 lorry journeys per day off the A82. He also showed how important the canal is to tourism in the Great Glen and talked about anxieties over cuts to some aspects of their work. Even the successful Ceilidh Trail is under threat, so lobby your MPs and SMPs if you want to see this continue. Surprisingly the Canoe trail, due for completion in 2012, is already bringing in thousands of tourists and this will continue to grow.  Catering was provided by Baking Birds, who also announced the opening of a shop in the village - and their cakes are delicious!  Said cakes! |
2nd November GREENSPACE UPDATE An update as to where Glenurquhart Greenspace are at the moment. They have had a discussion with Martin Culbertson, LEADER officer re the application form and the funding available. The deadline date for the submission of the form is 11th November 2010. One of the requirements of LEADER funding is that they have to bankroll the development, i.e. will guarantee the funding but will only pay out after receipt of paid invoices for work done. They are looking at submitting a funding bid for approximately £60/£70k so Greenspace have to have access to this amount of money. The development will have to be done in phases and the first phase will include redevelopment of the current play area/tennis court and open space and the area that runs alongside the shop and shinty pitch. This is to include tarmac to the area beside shinty field, landscaping for whole area, new play equipment for all ages and an area with picnic tables and information boards. Glenurquhart Greenspace therefore need three main things in order to submit application, this being approximate costs for all areas look at options re cash flow any planning permissions required and relevant timescales. Neil Barron has agreed to look at other cash flow and funding options. Angela is going to contact a local contractor to try to get a revised costs for redevelopment of tennis court/play park area as the current costs we have are just for replacement toddler play equipment. There is really a need for a layout drawing of what we propose and taking into account agreed plans as discussed at last site visit. Stuart Brownlee from sbworks has been in touch and has agreed to help us pro bona and I have asked him to liaise with Neil to how best we utilise his skills/expertise. If anyone else can help with information required or has contacts/expertise in these areas please feel free to contact Glenurquhart Greenspace to assist. They still have quite a tight timescale to submit application form. (the above edited from an original email) |
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2nd November Glen Urquhart Public Hall, Drumnadrochit IT’S YOUR VILLAGE HALL! OPEN EVENING – MONDAY 22nd NOVEMBER 5pm until 9pm  Most people in the local community have, at some time, used the Public Hall at Blairbeg, and will appreciate what a great asset it is for us all. As you are probably aware, the Hall is a true Community asset – owned by the people of Glen Urquhart, and managed in trust on their behalf by a small committee of unpaid volunteers. This is to let you know that on Monday 22nd November, they shall be holding an Open Evening in the meeting rooms at the hall, with the aim of finding out from as many local people as possible what they believe the priorities should be for taking the hall forward in the future. They have only very limited funds, but are keen to use them wisely for the hall and its users, however, to do this well, they need your input. Can you find ten to fifteen minutes of your time to call in on the 22nd, at any time between 5pm and 9pm, and give them your views? That’s all it will take, and the only commitment they are asking of you. They really do need the involvement and input of the community, if the hall is to continue as a viable facility for us all in the future. It would be a shame if a general lack of interest were to cause it to be lost. Please don’t take it for granted! The Hall Management Committee hope to see you on the 22nd. |
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30th October CHAMPIONS OF CHAMPIONS CUP  Here is Don Dayman, Chairman of Glenurquhart Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland, proudly displaying the Champion of Champions Cup for Scotland. The cup can be seen from the 8th to 15th November in the window of the Great Glen Pharmacy, by kind permission of Chamber Member, Donal Bolger. Armistice Day is 14th November. There will be a short service of remembrance at 10.45am on the 14th at the War Memorial. All very welcome. Thanks to all who have given their time and space for the collection tins and poppies. Please give generously.
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29th October EMBARGO ON A82 TIMBER TRUCK INITIATIVE REMOVED  A shipment of timber has been taken through the Caledonian canal in a new scheme to revive commercial traffic on the Highland waterway. The Scottish government is helping to fund the £255,000 freight initiative in a bid to take lorries off Scotland's roads and reduce carbon emissions. The Caledonian canal, which opened in 1822, runs from Corpach near Fort William to Inverness. It is anticipated that a return journey would be in the region of 4 days. Announcing the successful maiden voyage by the MV Kanutta, Transport minister Stewart Stevenson said: "This is an exciting development for the Scottish freight industry and our canal network. This is an exciting time for the area, with the Caledonian Canal brought back into use for freight and the massive benefits that will result in taking haulage off the local roads” Fergus Watson Highlands and Islands Enterprise "Not only will this route further open up Scotland for business, it will also support our aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by taking lorries off our roads, and helping to clear congestion on the vital A82 route. "The Scottish government is working closely with British Waterways and Highland and Islands Enterprise to enable our canals to become an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative transport method. "This is an exciting time for the area, with the Caledonian Canal brought back into use for freight and the massive benefits that will result in taking haulage off the local roads."  Russell Thomson, Highlands waterway manager at British Waterways Scotland, said, "Alongside partners, we have long held aspirations to see freight return to the Caledonian Canal so we are delighted that this has moved a step nearer with the six-month freight trial." Chamber members and prospective members will meet Russell at the Networking meeting on 2nd November in Blairbeg Hall at 7pm. Don't forget to RSVP with any dietary needs if you are coming. Prospective members can attend in return for a donation towards the upkeep of the village website. |
28th October PASSENGER TRAPPED IN YET ANOTHER A82 SMASH  On Tuesday, just four miles south of Urquhart Castle, a lorry overturned and spilled its load, trapping the passenger in the vehicle. Fire vehicles came from Fort Augustus, Drumnadrochit and Inverness and the road was closed for seven hours. The lorry, which was carrying hay bales, was jammed against the rock face and it took two cranes to put it back onto the road. The passenger was taken to Raigmore Hospital, but the driver was uninjured. |
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28th October E-CRIME SITE OFFERS HELP  A new approach is being launched to help businesses reduce the risk of falling victim to electronic crime. A website aimed particularly at small companies will offer help in protecting IT networks and preventing computer-based fraud. It is estimated that "e-crime" costs Scottish business billions of pounds a year. This ranges from virus attacks which can wipe out records or hacking which compromises security to simple fraud. Online crime is notoriously difficult to detect because of the sheer technical complexity involved - often beyond the resources of small companies to combat. The e-crime Scotland website, hosted by the Scottish Business Crime Centre, is being launched to help companies spot potential problems and deal with them. It is based on a similar site established by the Welsh government which we mentioned in an earlier news bulletin.  A conference in Edinburgh on cybercrime will hear of the growing threats to personal and business security from social media sites - and of a growth in Scotland of "skimming", where fraudsters record details of cards used in cash machines and then attack the account. We'll add details of the site as soon as available. |
28th October COMMUNITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS  (Click the above image to fully enjoy Christine Graham's illustration) The Community Council elections will be advertised from 29th October. Nomination forms are available from the Returning Officer, Mr Stewart Pow, Garrock, 68 Balmacaan Rd, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UR Tel 450781 or by e-mail from Morven MacLeod (please state for which CC you are standing). Closing date 5pm on 9th November. Please note that if you do not know your Electoral Number then the Returning Officer will add that information to your completed form. |
27th October BROADBAND UPDATE  Destination Loch Ness are continuing to pursue the possibility of broadband for the population facing on to Loch Ness. The Destination Loch Ness project is now with the Scottish Government together with ten competing projects. Now is the time to keep your fibre optic cables crossed. While on broadband, do remember to spend just a few minutes registering your community on the following website. It costs absolutely nothing and, as it will be decided on the percentage of residents voting, YOUR VOTE could make the vital difference. Don't postpone it - please do it right now! Race To Infinity WebsiteNote that after you click on this you will have to enter your postcode and when you get to the local page click on VOTE. You will have to enter your postcode again and a few other details and you also get the opportunity to post your vote on Facebook. |
20th October RNLI rescue hamster and six people on Loch Ness!  The image shows RNLI crew member, Ian Putnam, throwing a tow line to crew member, Joy Cameron. A family on holiday with a pet hamster run aground on Loch Ness. The Drumnadrochit based volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew were launched to assist a family whose motor cruiser had run aground near Invermoriston approximately 12 miles south of Urquhart Castle, Aberdeen Coastguard received an emergency call alerting them to the incident and requested the launch of the Loch Ness RNLI lifeboat. Crew members Ian Putnam, Joy Cameron and Martin Douglas left the Temple Pier base at just before 1pm BST on Wednesday 20 October and took the RNLI's Atlantic 75 RIB Mercurius, to the assist the stranded family and the hamster who was wearing a life jacket 'just in case'.  Weather conditions were clear but the loch was choppy. Joy Cameron had to swim then wade to the grounded vessel which had got into difficulty in a notoriously tricky area. The cruiser was checked to confirm that it was not taking on water and that no injuries were sustained, before the three person volunteer lifeboat crew rigged tow ropes and bridles to facilitate a tow into deeper water. The extremely shallow water and very narrow channel created additional problems but the met by additional members of the local volunteers who refuelled and prepared B707 Mercuruis for service. |
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19th October NETWORKING DATE CONFIRMED The Chamber of Commerce Networking event will be on 2nd November in Blairbeg Hall at 7pm. After a short talk by Russell Thomson, British Waterways Board Highland Waterways Manager there will be plenty of time for general networking. Russell is hoping to release news which will have a real impact on everyone who uses the A82. Fingers crossed that embargo goes in time! Food supplied by Baking Birds and a complimentary glass of wine or fruit juice too. No boring committee business at Networking evenings so come and enjoy yourselves. If you've thought about joining the chamber but don't know what it is all about why come to this event. You can make a contribution to the website fund in return for the refreshments. Members and wives, husbands or partners welcome as always free of charge. Do RSVP to admin@drumnadrochit.info for catering purposes with any dietary requirements. 
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17th October COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS Elections:- Elections for the community council are taking place in October / November. Nomination papers will be available from 29th October and must be returned by 9th November. There are ten places available and if more than ten candidates stand then a postal ballot will be held with the results known by 10th December. If anyone wishes to know more about the community council please contact David Fraser or any member of the Community Council. Further details of the election and returning officer details will be advertised in the local press soon. Police Station Closures:- Area Commander Chief Inspector Andrew Maclean attended the community council meeting on the 13th October. Currently Drumnadrochit and Glen Urquhart is covered by Beauly and Fort Augustus, and included in the proposals is closing Beauly and moving the officers to Muir of Ord. The Community Council and local Councillors are very keen to hear your views on this issue and these should be made known before the Police Board meeting at the end of November. The Area Commander has also indicted his willingness for a further public meeting. It was noted that the Police Station in Drumnadrochit has had long periods of not being manned over the last few years and perhaps the key point is not so much its closure but about establishing a regular and effective police presence. To this end the closure of Beauly is important as officers are already having to cover the closure of Cannich Police Station and if moved to Muir of Ord then they are likely to find themselves involved with incidents over an even wider area. One positive suggestion was for regular drop in surgeries perhaps at the School or Tourist Information Centre where members of the public would know a policeman (or policewoman) would be available on a regular basis – at least weekly. It was also suggested that even if the station closes the asset should be retained as it provides a focal point for Police matters and could be used in the future. The Community Council is keen to obtain feedback on these ideas and also experience from Strathglass following the closure of their station last year. Next meeting:- The next meeting is on Monday 13th December at 8pm in Balnain Hall, agenda will include election on community council office bearers.
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15th October UPCOMING WIND FARM NEWS  Erik Trefler, director of the Soirbheas group has recently thanked all the group's current members for making the effort to support this project by becoming members of the community company. The company holds regular meetings to discuss progress and move the project along. They do not expect members to attend every meeting, but do want to make it clear that members are always most welcome to join them. They are keen to involve the community in this project and your views, suggestions, aspirations and wisdom will be invaluable in shaping how the project develops and how the benefits are delivered back into the community. If you can make it along on 28th October (see Glen's Diary for details) they will be delighted to see you. They also need to expand their community membership as the funding bodies want them to show that there is substantial and solid support for this project in the community. The funding bodies will not be generous in funding if it is only a small minority of the community which shows interest. To this end, they need you to talk about the project to your friends and neighbours in the community AND PERSUADE THEM TO BECOME MEMBERS TOO . Membership forms can be down-loaded from our web-site www.Soirbheas.org (a link for the form will appear on the left side of the page). Alternatively contact Erik Trelfer, Coille Na Cro, Glen Urquhart, IV63 6TH or e-mail Erik Trelfer. Ideally they want at least 20-30% of the community to enrol as members. Children can join too - this project will run for 20 years or more so they will have a big stake in it. |
13th October CHAMBER ACTIVITY What has the Chamber been doing recently? Car Park Noticeboard: New title boards have been put in place. Notices posted by non-members were removed and boards measured for new backgrounds. Observation shows that the notice board has been very popular among tourists. Measurements have been taken to allow images to appear behind advertisements and this will be completed as soon as possible. Website: The new Village & Glen Website has been launched. The chamber is looking for a person to distribute information about the site to all properties in the area covered. See JOBS. After an approach by a business not operating within the area it has been decided not to permit advertising by outside businesses although HSPC has been offered the opportunity to list houses and businesses for sale in the area. Member updates: Membership continues to grow and the benefits now include entries in the VisitDrumnadrochit.com website, the Drumnadrochit.info website with the opportunity to add special offers, the village noticeboard which is well used by visitors looking for accommodation and places to eat in particular and an entry in the 3D Virtual Scottish Highlands. Hausgauen: Members of the team which visited Hausgauen for the alliance celebrations were invited to brief the Board on the event and discuss next steps. A brief report and photos are already on the website, and the picture & plaque presented to the team will be displayed in the Information Point. It is intended to try to arrange exchange visits with local secondary pupils; members will be asked to offer discounts to Hausgauen residents visiting the village, this to coincide with the new air route from Basel opening in December. Destination Loch Ness have been asked to bring the flights to the attention of VisitScotland so that appropriate marketing can be put in place in Basel/Mulhouse Airport. A festival to celebrate the Alliance is being considered for early next summer. Other matters: A representative from British Waterways has agreed to speak at the next networking evening as there are to be some exciting developments which will benefit everyone on the north side of Loch Ness.  The Networking Evening will be Tuesday 2nd November. Venue and time to be finalised (see events page). There is continuing concern at the lack of a third lane in the plans for developments on the lochside, and it was agreed that in the light of the spate of recent road accidents on the stretch of road between Drum and the Clansman, the Chamber would write to Transport Scotland to emphasise their concern, copying the letter to the Minister for Transport and the planning authority. Board members commented that they had had a lot of business from the Loch Ness Beer Festival. |
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13th October POLICE STATION TO CLOSE  Regarding the Community Council meeting tonight (see events): This email was sent by David Fraser, Community Council Chairman, to community councillors, copied to councillors and to various local people. You may be aware that the police have announced the proposed closure of the local police station. There was already an agenda item for an update on local policing by the Fort Augustus Sgnt, however in light of this development the Chief Constable Ian Latimer or his Division Commander will try to attend. Sorry for the short notice but it is an opportunity to hear what he has to say. The other agenda items include Druim Ba Wind Farm, Community Council Elections, Updates from SSE & Transport Scotland on planning matters and if there is time feedback on Hausgauen – but we have to be finished before 10 as it is at the school. |
10th October BROADBAND  There are two drives to increase broadband speed to parts of the Glen. One initiative is to try to convince BT that we are worth supporting. This is better for Drumnadrochit. Cannich residents should enter their own postcodes and see if they can also vote. Jenny Macfie writes, "One thing which will help to ensure that the community of Drumnadrochit and Glenurquhart stays afloat is continuing fast broadband - so please go to this site and sign up for it. If we get 75% (651) of the exchange lines voting for new generation fibre optics, BT will start talking to us." Remember that there has been a critical change of government policy regarding rural broadband. The new government has adopted the Tory manifesto policy to concentrate the improvement of broadband in major conurbations, consigning communities like ours to the leftover resources, so visit the site and sign up now: Race To Infinity WebsiteNote that after you click on this you will have to enter your postcode and when you get to the Drumnadrochit page click on VOTE. You will have to enter your postcode again and a few other details and you also get the opportunity to post your vote on Facebook.Another major broadband initiative is being pushed forward by Destination Loch Ness who have now submitted an application for funding to Leader for a major project costing £149,500 to bring broadband to the loch and those living along the shores who currently get a poor speed or none at all. This should also allow visitors to receive WiFi broadband on their boats etc. The timescale on that project is 1. Short listing by Highland LEADER Group Tue 26th October 2. Submission of selected Highland bids to Scottish Government by 29th October 3. Announcement of successful bids by Scottish Government date TBC shortly. Thereafter If successful and the project goes ahead, it will improve broadband availability and speeds considerably around Loch Ness, particularly in the communities of Abriachan and Brackla where it is presently very poor or non-existent. |
9th October ANOTHER DEATH CRASH  The A82 was closed yesterday for some five hours after a fatal road traffic accident.  Emergency services have confirmed that Matthew Campbell of Inverness died as a result of his injuries. He incurred these as a result of a serious collision while out riding with his brother approximately five miles south of Urquhart Castle.  Police are investigating the cause of the crash. Unofficially it is said that the motorcyclists were travelling at excess speed, but this can't be confirmed until the investigation is complete. Lifeboat volunteers on Loch Ness were also launched amid fears that a person may have been thrown into the waters of the loch. The local lifeboat crew of Drew Taylor and Garry MacLeod, led by Helm Ross Edwards, launched within minutes of the alert, and proceeded at speed to the scene. This continues a series of serious accidents on our notorious trunk road. |
7th October Mildred FARQUHAR Peacefully, on Thursday, October 7, 2010, at Raigmore Hospital, with the family she loved so much present, Mildred Farquhar (nee Middleton), Achmonie Farm, Drumnadrochit, aged 73 years, beloved and adored wife to Alex, much loved and precious mum to Jackie, Gail, Sarah and the late John Murray, special mother-in-law to Martin, loving grandma to Jamie, Claire and Rebecca and hugely missed by many. Funeral service on Wednesday, October 13, at 1.45 pm, in Drumnadrochit Church of Scotland, thereafter to New Kilmore Burial Ground. All friends respectfully invited. Floral tributes and or donations for the Salvation Army if so desired at the service or please forward to William T. Fraser and Son, Funeral Directors, Culduthel Road, Inverness.
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7th October STV NEWS ITEM LOCAL HEROES, Louise and Martin on STV Note that this video will open in a separate window and there is a short advertisement before it plays the news item. 
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5th OctoberE-CRIME WARNING TO ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERSVisit Wales has urged hotels and bed & breakfast establishments providing internet access to guests to protect themselves against illicit internet use.Under the Digital Economy Bill, tourism businesses are now liable for any activity taking place on their networks, legal or not. Business advice group e-Crime Wales have made available a special guide with instructions on how businesses can protect themselves from illegal activity. For further details or to download the guide, go toE-Crime Wales |
HAUSGAUEN ALLIANCE 11th & 12th September  Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Community Council attended the Hausgauen Tattoo and sealed the Alliance which had been agreed earlier this year.  TThis amazing French village, with only 400 residents staged a tattoo with 27 pipe bands! Below, Councillor Margaret Davidson received this picture and it will be put on display in the Village Information Point.  Hausgauen have also produced two road signs, which can be seen below. Ours is on the way to us right now.  More photographs can be seen on the Hausgauen images page. |
Teenager Joins Loch Ness Lifeboat Team RNLI volunteers on Loch Ness have been joined by their newest recruit, 17 year old student, Louise Graham.  Louise has become the first graduate from the RNLI Future Crew scheme which has been running in the Highlands of Scotland for the last two years. On reaching 17 she successfully applied to become part of the operational team that provides an emergency response on the 23 mile long loch.  She now carries her pager along with her school books and is ideally placed to be one of the first crew arriving at the lifeboat station as one of her teachers is also a member of the lifeboat team. Louise admits that the first time the pager went off it was a bit of a shock: 'My pager went of during the first lesson of the day and my first thought was that I'd left my mobile phone on.' Louise has recently experienced what it's like to be a crewmember on an open lifeboat with a 9 tonne RAF helicopter operating 50 feet above her head. The training event was part of a yearly skills session that sees RNLI volunteers training alongside Search And Rescue (SAR) aircrew from the RAF, Royal Navy and HM Coastguard. Loch Ness Lifeboat Station website |
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22nd September BEST IN SCOTLAND The War Memorial at Drumnadrochit won the prestigious Royal British Legion’s Champion of Champion Competition for Scotland for the Best Kept War Memorial with Gardens for 2010. The image below [remember you can click on images to see larger versions] shows, from left to right, Don Dayman, Dave Johnstone, Pat Veitch, Hugo Macdonald-Haig, Angus Mackenzie (President) and John Goodfellow.  They were presented with the winner’s trophy at a ceremony in Glenrothes hosted by Beautiful Scotland on 22 September 2010.  Other contenders for this competition were Hawick (2nd), Jedburgh, Kelso, Keith (3rd), Carnoustie, Saltcoats, Kilwinning and Uddingston.  The oldest member of the Glenurquhart Branch of the Royal British Legion Hugo Macdonald-Haig and others are absolutely delighted at winning this competition. Hugo Macdonald-Haig (age 98) is a nephew of Earl Haig, Founder of the Royal British Legion. Photos: Phil Downie |
SAVE THE CHIEFTAIN Local businessman Willie Cameron has joined the Inverness Courier's "Save The Chieftain" campaign. "Tourism is our only business. It is the mainstay of the local economy", he said.  He continued, "By making it difficult for people to get here, it is undoubtedly going to damage that economy" "No one I have met is in favour of this. It is bordering on criminal. They should be making it easier to get to the Highlands, not more difficult." You can sign the petition here. Remember that business who get their business from tourist businesses are damaged if those tourist businesses are damaged by this proposal to stop through services and replace them with connecting trains from Edinburgh, with all the inevitable waiting around with stressed out children and heavy bags and suitcases. We've all had to do that in our lives, let's not impose it on our guests unnecessarily. |
Monday 4th October Urquhart and Glenmoriston Parish Church at 11am Rose Colclough  Many in the glen will remember Rose Colclough from her years living in Milton. Rose's daughters Susan and Vanessa have arranged for a small Memorial service to commemorate the life of Rose and for family and friends to pay their respects. All those who knew and remember Rose are welcome to attend.  Rose and Derek moved to Drumnadrochit in 1984 from the South and found a beautiful home (Wellesbourne) in Milton, where they ran a B&B. Sadly and unexpectedly Derek died aged 54 in 1988 Rose continued to do B&B and made the decision to move south to be near her daughters in 1997. |
More car crashes near proposed lochside development locations. There have been two more serious accidents on the A82 between Temple Pier and Brackla. One vehicle left the road and could have ended up in the loch had it not been for trees. The other smash on 24th September saw a serious smash on the cliff side of the road near the piper's layby.br /> The Chamber of Commerce has again written to the authorities about the importance of a third lane at the entrance to the new developments.
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19th September 2010 Sandy Davidson  Davidson, Alexander (Sandy), aged 75 of Woodlands, Drumnadrochit and Cotovelo, Brazil, passed away in Hospital in Natal, Brazil on Sunday, September 19, following a short illness, his wife and daughters were with him at the end. Beloved husband to Maria Wilma Bernardes Davidson, adored father of Fiona and Francisca, loving grandfather to Alexander and Caitrin, loved brother of Donald and respected uncle and tio. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A Memorial service and celebration of the life of Alexander (Sandy) Davidson will take place at Urquhart & Glenmoriston Parish Church, Drumnadrochit on Saturday October 9th at 2pm. All friends respectfully invited. Kilts and bright colours are welcome. Donations if desired to the Hospital Infantile Varela Santiago, Natal, Brazil may be made at the service. |
15th September 2010 Father and Daughter, James and Eleanor (11) Harper-How, have been paddling their inflatable kayak from Loch Linnhe to Inverness to raise £2,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.  The paddling pair had to abort yesterday's paddle at the Clansman Harbour as conditions were so bad.  Plan B was to walk and cycle the route from Abriachan to Dochgarroch. Rest day today before paddling from Lochend to Inverness. Visit their blog for more information or to donate . |
11th September 2010 Drumnadrochit residents take part in a demonstration of Tai Chi in Falcon Square, Inverness as part of the Highland group.  Can you spot Lynn Ellis, Wendy Harmsworth, Sheila Lumsden, David Newsom & Annie Woolston in the video below? If you are interested in joining the local Tai Chi groups click the Tai Chi page in the right hand index. |
28th August 2010 Harry Potter star Timothy Spall and his wife Shane visited Drumnadrochit. They are travelling around the coast and producing a series called "Spalls At Sea". Above they can be seen leaving Loch Ness on their journey along the Caledonian Canal.  Watch for Timothy as Wormtail in Harry Potter. |
28th August 2010 Manuel Gorman receives the Hill Race cup for his victory at the Glen Urquhart Highland Gathering and Games on Saturday 28th August.  The Drumnadrochit Fire Brigade team at the games.  Fireperson Katrina Taylor fits a new fireman with his helmet on games day. |
12th August 2010 Barbara and Eoin Duff celebrate their Diamond wedding anniversary at the Clansman Hotel on 12th August. Wendy Harmsworth is celebrating with them on the left. Among their cards of congratulations was one from the Queen.  Barri & Eoin Duff met & married at HMS Condor at Arbroath, they were both in the Fleet Air Arm and at that time when a WREN got married she automatically left the service. Eoin went to Malta & I joined him for two years thereafter and went wherever he was drafted... in all they moved house twenty-two times! When Eoin left the Navy he went to Dounreay as a logistics man then they moved to Edinburgh where Eoin had a bad car accident (hit by a Bus running a red light). After that they went to Portmahomack (Eoins family home) and Eoin looked after a family business there. That followed with a business in Kenneth Street, Inverness from where he was headhunted to go to Canada to set up a training establishment, they lived there for twelve years. They came home to retire and decided to come & live in their favourite place, Drumnadrochit. They are now both retired and have lived here for twenty-five years. Barbara (Barri) is not for moving any more! Both very active in village life for many years until the years have mounted up and they now live a very quiet life, although Barri is still very "involved". |
4th July 2010HAUSGAUEN NEWS
On the 4th July various members of local organisations met and dined with their counterparts who had travelled from Hausgauen. Above you can see the plaque which was ceremonially handed to David Fraser as Chair of the Community Council. After their return home we received the following letter. - o O o - DEAR ALL We find no words to say THANK YOU ALL for that great reception and organisation of our visit. IT WAS JUST GREAT :-) Excellent diner and sightseeing and lodge and and and and We will do our very best to develop a great relationship between Hausgauen - Alsace and Drumnadrochit We found some very good friends in the Highlands of Scotland and we do look forward seeing you soon in Hausgauen. Please also say our thanks to the Cobbs Bakery but we don't have the E-mail address We will keep in touch so for now just once again THANK YOU Hopefully you have a good summer and many tourist in Drumnadrochit and I am sure there will be more people coming from the Alsace in the future Best regards Brigitte, Maurice, Gérard Sergio and Ursula - o O o - At their own cost, some villagers are heading to Hausgauen shortly to meet them at their Tattoo and cement l'alliance Française. |
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