CULTER COURIER

ISSUE No.84 AUGUST 2001

PUBLISHED BY THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL

CCC NEWS

The Gala got off to a good start, the weather being kinder than last year. Thanks must be given to all those who gave their time and energy, not forgetting the community themselves who turned up in considerable numbers to support this event on Gala Day and also the events during the previous week.

The Gala Committee will be meeting at the Pop-in, Wednesday August 15 at 7.30pm to have a 'debriefing session' and to discuss its programme for 2002. New people are always being asked to come forward to join this committee and put forward fresh ideas. There are not many meetings during the year but organisations are urged to be represented on the Gala Committee.

The members of the CCC have had speakers to address them at the last two monthly meetings -Mr Graeme Traill, Head Teacher of Cults Academy, is meantime on secondment, attached to Aberdeen City Council. He outlined the changes that have been made within ACC, in an attempt to streamline the various departments. Our second speaker, Mr Andrew Smith, Transport Division of ACC, addressed the road safety problems raised by Culter Safer Roads Campaign members, some of whom were present at the meeting. (More about this elsewhere in this issue.)

It was a pleasure to have another young person at our meetings. Constable Graeme Stewart has joined Kevin McKenzie in looking after the Culter community area, so you will see another uniformed body 'peddling' around our village. Watch Out!

Sam Weller Chairman

SECRETARY'S REPORT

Lack of space in the previous two Couriers has meant that my report has had to be missed out. Certainly in the last issue I was more that pleased to drop out to give more room for the report on Planning.

Lavina Massie, our Planning Liaison Officer, does a really first class job- everything is researched thoroughly before she puts pen to paper. This means calling in to St Nicholas House to collect the planning details (maps etc.) and then going to the site of the proposed buildings or changes to the building. A report is given to CCC members who discuss the pros and cons. It is only after this, that a letter containing CCC's objections is sent in. Sometimes residents of the neighbouring houses will attend a meeting or will write/telephone in their comments about the proposed changes and these are very much appreciated.

I think it is clear by the statements Lavina made in the May issue, that members of CCC have the well-being of the whole of Culter in mind when they 'allow' something to pass without comment, or decide to object. In response to the last report on Planning, we received some very favourable comments. Thank you for these. It is welcome feedback for us and a change from the grumbles that 'Community Councils are a waste of time'!

This brings me to the usual plea. Culter Community Council is under strength. We need at least three more to bring us up to the number we should have. Meetings are held monthly and last for approximately two hours...not such a long time really. Is your area of Culter represented at all? If not, it is time you made sure that it was. Come along to a meeting to see what is going on. You never know, you might like it.

Marjory J Skinner Secretary

PLANNING

Since the Editor did not have enough space in the last Courier to put in all the information on planning, here I am writing again to give you the missing pieces and also give you an update on ongoing applications.

Swiss Cottage, The Bush:

Planning and permission was sought to replace the old wooden house, latterly used as a paint store, with a block of six flats (three storeys high plus its roof space), which would have stood on the edge of the road. As well as individual objections from neighbours, Culter Community Council (CCC) objected on the grounds that

· The number of housing units

· already permitted in Culter was well in excess of that designated under the existing Local and Structure Plans;

· The building would be much larger and higher than others round it i.e. it would not blend in with its surroundings;

· A pavement was needed for pedestrian safety;

· Traffic on the roads had been at saturation point for a number of years and more housing and more cars would only acerbate the situation;

· The school rolls for the local primary and secondary schools were full.

· As an outcome of all this, we stated that we were of the opinion that there should be only a' one-for-one' replacement of old for new.

 

The applicant then submitted a new design for a block of two semi- detached houses with a pavement along the front. This was replaced quickly by a plan for two detached houses, which was passed by the planning committee despite CCC's continued plea for only one replacement house on the site.

Standish Cottage, The Bush Permission to replace the present house with two on the same site was denied apparently because of the wooded nature of the site which comes under Tree Preservation Order No.158 and not so much on our objections (similar to those given above for Swiss Cottage). At least ten trees would have had to be felled to build the houses. Of those left standing, several would be so close to the houses it was considered the occupants would want even more felled. The planners therefore advised against the plans and the planning committee agreed.

Golf Driving Ranges Two applications for Golf Driving Ranges were lodged within weeks of each other and both were refused. One was for a change of use of fields at Kennerty Farm (the field to the west of the loop road serving Peterculter Golf Club, with a car park taking up about a third of the field in the middle of the loop ). The other was at Oldtown Farm, also with a car park attached. CCC was aware that these types of sports/recreational facilities were permissible in the Green Belt under certain conditions but expressed concerns on both projects relating to road safety, danger from wayward golf balls, the highly visible nature of both sites and the eventual intrusion by floodlighting on the wildlife.

Gordon Arms Hotel Since last writing, the first set of plans (for 28 flats to be built once the developers had demolished the hotel) was withdrawn. They were, however, replaced with another of 26 flats with the hotel frontage being retained in the centre of two large 'wings' 4 storeys high. CCC considered these to overwhelm and ruin the aspect of the hotel frontage and the site. Again, ten trees would have to be felled. We repeated our concerns and objections to this second plan.

The planning department is awaiting their tree expert's report before finalising their report and advice to the Planning Committee and it will be September at the earliest before this application goes before the Committee.

Contlaw Road, Milltimber The public enquiry, which was to have taken place on 13-17 August on this application for 110 houses in Contlaw Road, has been postponed until 4 January 2002. The applicant requested this because a new Structure Plan for the North East has just gone to the Scottish Executive for approval and a new Aberdeen City Local Plan should be finalised by the end of September. No doubt he is hoping that any new allocations of housing over the next five years will help his cause BUT our schools are still at capacity, our roads are still congested and it is a Green Field site!

Bridgend (access path along the Leuchar Burn) Mrs Fiona Selbie of the Legal & Corporate Department of Aberdeen City Council, (ACC) tells me that, with the foot-and-mouth restrictions being relaxed, the Planning Department will be able now to go ahead with reinstating the banks of the bum and ensuring the gate stays open so that people can walk along the path. Since this had not been done under the Enforcement Order and within the time limit set, ACC can do this and charge the owner for the work entailed. This would have gone ahead in May but for the foot-and- mouth restrictions. These were observed by ACC as the owner had mentioned he might put sheep on his land.

Brownfield Sites Under the new Structure Plan for the North East of Scotland (awaiting approval by the Scottish Executive) Aberdeen City has an allocation of 1900 housing units for the years 2000- 2005. This is broken down into 1500 in Brownfield sites and 400 in Greenfield (Green Belt) sites. Further breakdown details are left to the Planning Department in its formulation of the new Aberdeen City Local Plan (final draft due out in September 2001). In this, they will list sites that have been used previously for other purposes (usually business/ commercial/ industrial) and could now be used for housing. An example of this would be the Culter Cars site, which has outline planning permission for flats.

CCC wrote pointing out the imbalance now reached in our community with the loss of commercial sites to housing -mostly flats -and the knock on effects this had on traffic, schools, etc. We pointed out that the residents wished to see a sustainable, viable community with local businesses and numerous retail outlets on our main street, encouraging people to shop and work locally. Any further housing designated to Culter should be affordable houses, not flats, to redress the balance. Sheltered housing also is urgently required. Along with this should go improvement in the provision of local amenities, schooling, leisure facilities, etc. It will be interesting to see if any of our concerns are taken on board. We can only live in hope.

Lavina C Massie Planning Liaison Officer

CITY COUNCIL NEWS

As I write this, I am forcibly struck by the differences between Culter residents in their attitude to their village. On the one hand, I am delighted that we have three stalwarts, so modest that they have stayed anonymous, who have arranged to buy St. Peter's Hall so that local groups can continue to use it. On the other hand, I am disgusted by the stupid vandals who have misused their strength to rip out a long length of the fence alongside the gorge above the Culter Bum. This will be mended quickly for safety reasons, but the considerable cost, as always, falls on the rest of us, the taxpayers (including their parents). If you know who they are, I hope they will get some indication of your displeasure!

More public-spirited action has come from the organisers of the Safer Roads Petition. The Community Council had a meeting with them attended by Andrew Smith of the Council's Roads Department. Since then I have had a further meeting with him and Barry Beat tie. Nicol Stephen MSP has been to Culter to study the problems, and will take our concerns to Sarah Boyack MSP who is responsible for roads. I have had a meeting with Ann Begg MP to brief her with progress on the matter.

Andrew Smith has, for a start, arranged to get a survey of local problem spots and a traffic census to give us baseline figures. He will report back to me and the Community Council in September. We have been promised a pavement up the east side of the slip road when funds permit, and will get better signs on the Kennerty bridge and by the bridge up to the golf course. I hope other improvements will follow, including some traffic calming signs outside the school. Please be realistic, however, and do not expect to get everything the petition asked for -we cannot stop the lorries, and the improved signs we want will depend on Council funds available. Happily, Cutter does not have the bad accident record, which would have strengthened our case for a bigger share of the City's expenditure.

During the recent Traffic Management Review, it had already been planned to build out a pavement in front of St Peter's Terrace to stop u-turns and to slow traffic down. A pavement down one side of Kennerty Road was also in the plan. Any improvements we get from the petition will be in addition to these.

On behalf of the Council, I apologise to the residents of Coronation Court who have been moved to other addresses, because those houses were subsiding. When I last enquired, there were only two residents left, both of whom were sticking out for relocation within Culter. I have hopes that the site will be redeveloped for public sector housing, and that the whole exercise will prove worthwhile in the long run.

Pam MacDonald

POLICE NEWS

Hello there. Firstly I’ll introduce myself – I am Graeme Stewart, your recently appointed second Community Beat Officer for your area, working along with Constable Kevin MacKenzie, whom you already know.

I am 38 years old and was born in Aberdeen and grew up mainly in Torry. I left school and went straight into the Army to serve Queen and country. Alas I saw no military action but did have a very enjoyable six years.

I left the forces intending to join Grampian Police, however I bombed at the entrance test and from there spent the next several years doing mainly HGV driving work. I never gave up on the idea of joining the Police and was eventually successful in 1990.

By that time I had already met and married my wife Linda, and we have been 'blessed' with two wonderful kids, a daughter now aged 13 and son aged 10, both of whom are typical kids and who think money grows on trees. At the rate that they spend it, I foresee that they regularly will endure the feeling of 'being skint' .

Back to the Police, I have served at various stations all over the city and was transferred to Culter Police office about 18 months ago and have been mainly divisional up until my current role as community officer.

One of my most immediate concerns as a beat officer was the problem faced by getting about this area. I am aware that in the past there has been a constable going about on the 'Culter scooter', and yes this seemed great for covering the area but was viewed by me as still being not in direct contact with the community. So what is the option? Well I've recently taken to a mountain bike. Yep, that's it folks, a BIKE.

Having nagged my boss to allow this, he agreed, and in the days prior to my first stint, I suffered sleepless nights thinking how on earth I' d survive such roads as Netherby Road, Kirk Brae, School Road and all the rest. Well I am pleased to say that it was surprisingly easy having a modem bike (that's a bike with more than three gears ) .

Since taking to my wheels, I am pleased to say that it is proving to be extremely effective, and has been very well received by the community. Even the reaction from school pupils of all ages was positive, as it appeared they related better to a policeman on a bike. This method of Policing our area was officially launched on Tuesday 24 July; 2001, with the help of the local media.

So that's it folks, I look forward to meeting you. You can contact either me or Kevin (time to dig out your cycle clips Kev) at the Culter office.

THE BLAIRS MUSEUM

Have you ever wondered about the spire and the tower you can see peeking above the trees, just across the river from Bieldside and Cults?

The Blairs Museum now occupies part of the former seminary buildings of St Mary's College, Blairs. Boys who thought that they might want to become priests spent their secondary years at the college. It closed in 1986.

The college collected many paintings and other artefacts, many of which are now displayed in the museum.

We have some wonderful paintings of Mary Queen of Scots -as a young princess in France, as a queen in captivity and exactly as she appeared at her execution. This last portrait is going to be conserved at the end of the season, which should reveal some fascinating details. We also have paintings of some of Mary's descendants -Bonnie Prince Charlie and his immediate famlly as well as objects he presented to people.

As part of its long history as a seminary;: the college collected many objects connected with the Roman Catholic Church -metalwork and vestments. There are some exquisite pieces of metalwork and some fabulous vestments. There is also an exhibition relating to life at Blairs.

The museum is open until the end of October, from Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays), from 12 noon -4 pm, and by appointment from November to March. If you are part of a group that may like a guided tour, please phone for special rates: 01224 863767.

47TH CULTER BOYS' BRIGADE COMPANY

The start of session is now only a week or two away when the whole Company will now be meeting on a Thursday evening at Culter School. Starting times will be staggered in order to accommodate all three sections on the one night. Boys and parents will be notified of the re-start of session and please look around the village for information for new boys wishing to join the. Company.

During the first two weeks of July we held our annual Summer Camp at the Lebhall Site, Ballater. This year around 50 'Old Boys' attended a very enjoyable' Advance Weekend' where all the canvas was erected by ex-BB Boys, Officers, Dads and Friends of the 47th. The first week of camp was the Seniors' Week when the Senior Boys prepare Inter-Tent Competitions, some other activities for the boys and any final touches before the boys arrive for the second week. This year the Officers and Seniors also had time to canoe down the River Dee during the Seniors' Week, when we were lucky to have a very hot day. Unfortunately the weather broke when the young boys arrived however, as we had a very busy week-Iong programme for them, they did not have much time to think about getting wet!

Activities this year included a two day team-building course organised by former BB lads Danny Laing and Kenny Martin, gorge walking, magician, quad-biking, fishing, individual bowls, tennis and table- tennis competitions. On the last night we had our presentation of the Camp Awards, which included the various sports competition winners, best camp boy and camp bubbly! Regardless of the weather all the boys thoroughly enjoyed their week with the majority of them already looking forward to next year.

Saturday 14 July (the day after camp finished!) saw the Pipe Band heading to Stromness on the P& O St Sunniva Ferry for the annual Shopping Week which the BB Band have attended many times before. The week consists of several engagements every day at various venues throughout the town including playing selections at the Pierhead, at Nursing Homes, leading the Shopping Week Queen and her Attendants through the streets and entertaining at evening Dinner Dances. The weather was nice and hot the whole week and the Boys, Officers and Parents enjoyed excellent hospitality from the Shopping Week Committee, local Hotels and indeed, all the Orcadians who supported the band.

As I attended the Summer Camp and the Orkney trip the next 'Four-seven' newsletter shall combine July and August once all the photographs are ready:

Future fundraisers for the Company include

· a Ceilidh on Friday 2 November 

· Boxing Night on Friday 30 November 

· and an Old Tyme Dance on Friday 7 December (

More details on the above events will be advertised around the village nearer the dates.

The Pipe Band are competing at the usual competitions where the results can be found either on our website www.47culterbb.com or in the local weekly press. This year the Band has been performing frequently in Aberdeen City Centre and has also been invited to attend the Braemar Gathering on Saturday 1 September.

Various pieces of Culter Boys Brigade merchandise are now on sale including Mouse Mats, Umbrellas and Fleece Jackets. Anyone interested please contact me  mike@findlaygroup.co.uk or submit your details online www.47culterbb.com

I look forward to seeing everyone at the re-start of session and remember to watch the local press and information around the village on the new session dates and times.

Best Regards

Mike Findlay (Company Captain)

CAMPHILL SCHOOLS NEWS

The summer term has been marked by our annual outdoor week. Highlights were a house trip to London and various camps along Royal Deeside. All in all, everybody seems to have had a good time even those who fell in Loch Aboyne while learning to kayak and canoe.

During the term too the Camphill Estate Community were busy making a large mosaic in memory of a pupil who had died earlier in the school year. Designed by a number of co-workers and the girl's mother, the mosaic depicts a dancer in sunlight. The mosaic now adorns the outside wall of Camphill House and we hope you will enjoy it when you visit for our Open Day on 22nd September.

Another highlight of the term was the graduation of our Class 12,the eighteen year olds, one of whom had been with us for 13 years. It included a performance by the Class of a scene from Nicholas Nickelby, an address from their teacher, a buffet supper and finally a ceilidh. We had 150 guests and a memorable time was had by all. Earlier, one class had performed two hours of Henry V and another an hour production of Parcival. It is simply amazing what the pupils have achieved!

Laurence Alfred

PETERCULTER PARISH CHURCH

For some time now, teas and coffees and delicious home baking have been served between l0am and 12noon on a Saturday morning at the church hall: This has proved so popular that we have decided to extend it to Thursday mornings as well. You are therefore warmly invited to come along to the small hall at the church to enjoy a tea or coffee and biscuits (we are not promising the home baking just yet!) and, most importantly, the company. You can be assured of a warm welcome. There is also the option at 12 noon every Thursday for anyone to come along to a short ten minute act of worship in the church.

The church has recently been installing "spy holes" for housebound members to help in some small way towards their security. We are happy to extend this to any housebound person in the village. If you would like this service carried out, free of charge, then please contact the church office  any morning except Mondays. Obviously, the special fund we have available to do this is limited, so it may have to be on a first come, first served basis.

A date for your diaries is Friday November 30 when we plan to have an evening of entertainment for St Andrew's Night, which will include the singer Alister MacDonald.

The work of improving the church premises is now completed, with the church hall now having been redecorated, new windows installed and the toilets completely refurbished with the introduction of a disabled toilet. Please remember that if you wish to make use of our improved facilities for any occasion, you can arrange to do so by phoning the church office.

John Ferguson

CULTS CRICKET CLUB

SEASON 2001 is rapidly drawing to a hopefully successful conclusion. At the time of writing the 1st XI is top of Grade 1 and is in the final of the SCU Small Clubs Cup. The 2nd XI is top of Grade 4 and in the final of the Johnston Cup. Good luck to all concerned.

The playing side of the club is in a very healthy state with both senior sides performing well with a mixture of experience and youth. Several junior members have been' guesting' for Banchory and Stonehaven in midweek games and have been performing well. Kwik cricket on Friday nights has been an outstanding success with up to 40 under 12's attending. This augers well for the future of the club.

The weather has been the usual summer mix of rain, cold and occasional sunshine. Overall though, not many games have been lost to rain, and the square has been reasonably hard and true.

On the downside has been the continuing vandalism over the summer to the ground and the buildings culminating in the arson of the groundsman's building. This resulted in the loss of roller, mower and the bulk of the ground maintenance equipment. Equipment and buildings can be replaced, obviously at a cost, but why has the Allan Park been targeted yet again? If anyone reading this article has any information please contact Kevin or Graeme of Grampian Police on 732222.

Cults Cricket Club is always on the look out for more players.

For more information please contact: 

Ian Sutherland -

President Cults Cricket Club

Tel: (Home) 742833 (Office) 523609 email on isutherland @it.aberdeen.net.

uk web site http://members. tripod.co. uk! gillanders

DEE-CIDERS WALKING GROUP

One of the bonniest days we had the pleasure of walking was away back in May -you remember those halcyon days of our summer? The foot-and-mouth syndrome had calmed down a little up here in the northeast, so it was great to be out in the countryside.

We had intended to go to the area around Baulenstone on the A97 but as it happened that area was still under restriction to walkers. We arrived at the Outdoor Centre named 'Big Foot' and it was there that we were informed of the restrictions, so plan B came into operation.

Still on the A97, we branched off at Newe farm and into the car park from where we set off to explore. As is the way of walking groups, our walks are always reconnoitred before our day away, but this was an exception to the rule so it was 'follow the colour indicators on the poles'. Before we go any further, the forestry enterprise could have done a better job but, as it was a gorgeous day, nobody was too perturbed about hunting for the path. At one time we thought of changing our name from the "Dee-ciders Group" to "far's the Pathie Group?"

We trudged through long undergrowth, scratched our way through sweet-smelling gorse and, in some cases the 'little folk' were lost among the young growing trees. Our spirits were high; we were having an adventurous time; there was not a cloud in the blue sky -only the ribbons left by high flying planes.

When we were on high ground the views were stunning. Below us were the patchwork fields of shades of green edged with bands of trees while further on in the distance we could pick out Lochnagar, Bennachie and The Buck. It was as Wordsworth (1 hope!) said," A day to stand and stare, and stare as long as sheep and cows".

After our adventurous trek, we were all in need of refreshment. As a group, we can thoroughly recommend the 'Kinord Hotel' (formerly Profeit's) at Dinnet. Sitting in the garden in the sunshine was a real treat. One of our party comes from Australia on holiday and she returns home with happy memories of our countryside and companionship with "far's the Pathie Group?".

Jean Duff

PETERCULTER OAPS

We have been on holiday during July and August so our first meeting for the coming session is on September 5 when the entertainment is by John Michael from Stonehaven.

October is going to be a busy month. October 3 sees Bill Stuart from Cushnie entertaining us and on October 6 we have our main fund raiser, our Sale of Work. This will be at the Culter Mill Club from 2pm till 4pm and there will be the usual stalls, big raffle and, of course, tea and home baking in the small club room. We look forward to seeing you there.

October 17 is when we have an extra concert for our members and entertainment is by Alistair Salter. We are always looking for new members (membership is only £6 per year.)

Flo Will President

GUIDING IN CULTER

As we prepare to enter a new year in Guiding, I have the same plea. We have so many girls wanting to be in Rainbows and Brownies but we have a lack of leaders. At the end of June we said goodbye and thank you to two very dedicated Rainbow Guiders but family pressures meant that both had to give up. Thankfully two mums have come forward and are willing to run the unit but, as they have no experience, the unit is going to consist of a maximum of 10 girls until they feel more confident. The second Rainbow Unit also will soon be in the same position with one of the leaders retiring and the other has a demanding job and young family. It would be sad to see the unit fold but, unless I can find adult help soon, this will happen.

Brownies continue to be very popular with the 7-10yrs. We presently have a waiting list as long that we could start a 3rd Unit in the village. If anyone would consider this I would support them as much as possible. If your daughter's name is on the list you will hear from me or Alison Skea eventually but it is unlikely that there will be any places until January 2002 unless we can start a 3rd Unit.

Guides enjoyed their first camp under canvas for several years. We were very lucky with the weather and a good time was had by all. Though the unit has a healthy number, there are still a few places for any girl l0yrs plus anyone interested can contact me for more details.

Joyce Cowie

District Commissioner

BOBBIES ON BIKES

The Community Beat Officers at Culter Police Office will be taking to the roads this summer on mountain bikes. Covering the Culter and Cults beats on mountain bikes will enable us to police a larger area over the course of our day and give an increased Police presence on the streets.

The Culter and Cults beat is ideally suited to mountain bikes. There are numerous paths and walks in the area, including the Deeside Railway, which is always busy with local people and tourists during the summer months. Using the mountain bikes will give us the ideal opportunity to police these paths and walkways.

The Culter and Cults areas are the only areas in the City that have Police patrolling on mountain bikes, however other areas of the City may also be looking to adopt this method of policing in the near future.

We will be easily identifiable on our mountain bikes. The uniform consists of bright reflective T -shirts and jackets with the Police logo, and white cycling helmets with 'Police' thereon.

If you see us out and about, give us a wave and ask us in for a coffee -probably we will be looking for a much needed rest while out cycling, to give us a chance to recuperate before tackling the steep hills on our beat!

Kevin McKenzie/Graeme Stewart Community Beat Officers Culter

Telephone: 01224 732222

THE DEESIDE CHORISTERS

The new season starts with a number of interesting engagements. On August 26 we visit Pluscarden Abbey, where we have sung an Evensong most years since 1978. Nowadays we stop at Elgin on the way, for skating and swimming before going on to the Abbey; rounding off the evening with fish suppers, again at Elgin.

· On September 9 we give a recital, which includes Faure's Requiem, at St Mary's Church, Carden Place, Aberdeen, in aid of their fund for roof repairs-

· During the September holiday, the choir leaves for a weekend in Linlithgow (combining holiday activities with music), which culminates in a Service at the Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling.

· On the last Sunday in September, we sing at a Harvest Festival at St Andrew's Church, Banff.

Normally we have just one public engagement per month and after Banff we settle down to a more leisurely schedule leading up to the Carol Services in December.

We are now recruiting musical children between the ages of 7 and 11. Our main aim this year is to reinforce the boys' section -they will find it is cool to sing with other boys! We also have a few vacancies for girls in the same age range. If you know of any children who enjoy music and might benefit from what we have to offer, please contact me at 01224 740363.

There is no pressure on anyone to join: the initiative for that must come from the youngsters themselves! If you would like a prospectus, without any obligation, or find out more about the Choristers, ring the same number.

Malcolm Love

CULTER VILLAGE HALL

The hall has been closed for most of the summer holidays, apart from the Miss Berry School of Dance Summer School, and a few one- off activities. This has enabled the hall to be given a good clean from top to bottom ready for the coming year.

You will have noticed that the outside of the hall has been painted and looks much cleaner and smarter. Volunteers from the committee will paint the window frames as well. This may well have been done by the time you are reading this!

All the usual activities start up once more in mid August including Kindergym, Bo-peep Club and the Playgroup. If you interested in enrolling your child for any of these groups, please contact Alison Skinner at the Village Hall. Office hours are:

Monday to Friday: 9am -12.30pm Monday to Thursday:2 -4pm

An answerphone is switched on at all times and Alison Skinner will get back to you as soon as possible.

Susan Chappel-Smith President

EASTLEIGH NURSING HOME

Residents and staff would like to thank those who generously contributed to the success of May Fayre. Over £2000 was raised for the Residents' Activities Fund, which was a great effort by everyone. Many people throughout the village helped before, during and after the event while there were generous donations towards our raffle. It was wonderful to see everyone pulling together and having success at the same time.

Some of the money was used to buy plants for our gardens which, I am sure you will agree, if you have visited recently, look beautiful. Many thanks to a certain gentleman who put in all the hard work.

At the end of June, residents and relatives were treated to a barbeque, which was prepared by Lorna, our cook, with help from her husband Gordon. Although, unfortunately, I was incapacitated and unable to attend, I heard that all went well and was a great success.

Our next fund-raising event will take the form of a Car Boot Sale on Saturday 29 September 2001, from llam to 2.30pm. More information will be given out later. Look out for the posters throughout the village.

In October we will be holding our Annual Quiz Night. This has proved popular and we always invite Primary 7 pupils from the local school. This event will be held in the Home on Friday 26 October at 7pm.

Following the success of our Silent Auction last year, we will be organising another one for Friday 16 November. Look out for posters nearer the date.

In June we launched our Recipe Book. This has proved very popular and is selling well. If you would like a copy, do visit the home and buy a copy for yourself and a friend or two.

At the time of writing, I am enjoying the summer sunshine. Hopefully you will all have had a happy and restful summer and we look forward to welcoming you to any of our events at Eastleigh throughout the autumn/winter season.

Margaret Mearns Activities Organiser

"Another Time, Another Place No.1"

MALCOLM ROAD -NEW COTTAGES, 1950/51

BACK ROW: (includes) Willie Simpson, Edna Stuart, Olive Jamieson, Gordon Tait, Sandy Buchan, Grant Allan, George "Gunner" Stuart, Douglas Allan? George Stephen's step-son, Davidson

MIDDLE ROW: (includes) Vera Simpson, Mrs. Simpson, Mrs. Cowie, Mrs. Simpson & June, Mrs. Davidson, Mrs. Jamieson, Mrs. Gordon, Mrs. Whyte

FRONT ROW: (includes) Sandra Allan, Mrs. Allan, Linda Whyte, Audrey Thomson, Rhoda Stuart

Can Courier readers help identify the unnamed faces?

******CULTERNET UPDATE******

 Replies so far have suggested that the girl kneeling is Helen Simpson, also Helen McKenzie, Alan Whyte, the girl with the ribbon was a visitor to the Davidson, the Davidson boy is Michael Davidson- the boy next to him is Geoffrey Gordon.

Have you something to sell?

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Maybe you have visitors and don't know where to take them. Solve all your problems at once by logging on to www.culter.net -History, Heritage and Culture all in one place.

"Another Time, Another Place No.2" 

In this case, it was St. Mary's Place and a photograph taken over 100 years ago - around 1895. It was a remarkable photo, not only because it has survived so long, but that it was returned to Culter via the internet. Jim and Mary White of Jarrettsville, USA discovered CulterNET when they were 'surfing' early this summer. Mary's mother Williamina was born, raised and married in Culter. Jim and Mary will be visiting Cutter in September and have promised to bring the photograph of "The Ladies of St. Mary's Place" and other pictures with them.

(Although the photograph sent over the internet had reasonable definition, it could not be reproduced in the Courier with any kind of clarity)

St Mary's Place

Have you, or your distant relatives got photos or items which show Culter's past? Have a search in your old photo album and then contact heritage@culter.net -or drop in at the St. Peter's Heritage Centre and show us what you have found.

ST PETER'S HERITAGE TRUST

HELLO! The question is 'Where to start?' No hesitation -June 2, 2001, the official Opening Day of the Heritage Centre and this started on a high note. On arriving at the Centre, there at the front door were the Kennerty Stones from Oldtown Farm, courtesy of Gerald Middleton. These stones marked the resting place of two farm hands who died when struck by lightning while collecting stones to rebuild St Peter's Church in 1779. (Visit the Centre and read the story from church records.)

Back to the Opening Day that can only be described as a great success. James S Milne, CBE, Ardbeck House, performed the opening ceremony and Rev John Ferguson gave a prayer of dedication. Yes, it was great! The day ended on a high note -a musical note -thanks to Mr Ken McLeod who had organised various groups of young and talented pupils of Cults Academy and the Ferryhil1 Music Group. Many thanks to those who participated in anyway.

Morning worship on June 16 saw the Right Rev John Miller, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, dedicate the refurbishment of the Peterculter Parish Church. In the afternoon he, accompanied by Rev John Ferguson, visited the Heritage Centre. We presented Mr Miller with a picture of the Centre, two bone china mugs and two books of poems. Mr Miller was very complimentary about the Centre -the building, the setting and its purpose. I was delighted to receive a card of thanks from him and he remarked that the poems had told him something of Peterculter.

But there's more Peterculter Parish Church sought Planning permission to demolish 5t Peter's Church Hall and erect one dwelling house and garage there as they deemed the Hall redundant. Prior to seeking Planning permission, the Trust, in correspondence with the General Trustees, let it be known that it wished to be considered as a potential buyer. The Hall is an integral part of the former church. When it was down to fourteen days within which to lodge an objection, we feared a situation best described as similar to a Rabbie Burns' poem "In a moment a' wis gone".

Negotiations took place and our offer accepted so making it possible to incorporate St Peter's Church Hall in St Peter's Heritage Trust. However much has still to be done. The kitchen and toilets will need to be upgraded. Where's the money coming from? We will be asking all the good folk in the community to support what we, and they, want to put in place for today and for tomorrow.

Postcript: Did you know St Peter's Church Hall was a former church in Ballater? It was erected on instruction from Bishop Douglas, Aberdeen & Orkney, who provided £409 in 1897 to build a corrugated Chapel. In time it became known as the Iron Kirk. The Kirk Session of St Peter's Parish Church bought it in 1906 for its present use.

Research of the former Episcopalian Church is ongoing in Ballater by Mrs Jemma Hughes. We also have contacted the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Museums of Scotland and we await a reply.

Our continuing thanks to all of you for a much appreciated commitment and to the management team of the Trust -keep up the good work.

Allan Pennie Chairperson

OVER 5Os WALKING GROUP

Monymusk and Castle Fraser were to be walking venues on Thursday 19 April, a dull and showery morning but it became a ‘non- starter' as far as walking was concerned. When we arrived at Monymusk, we discovered our favourite walk was still closed due to the Foot and Mouth restrictions so we did another shorter walk, ending in a mad dash for the bus as we were being lashed by a wintry shower.

Onward to Castle Fraser and hopeful but unfortunately all walks were closed to the public. We arrived just as the Falcon filming was completed otherwise who might have been on the small screen? We had a look round the castle plant sale and the shop where there is always something someone just needed. After an alfresco lunch in the lee of an old building, we returned to the bus and were homeward bound. Not a very successful day but the company made up for this.

Our next get together, unfortunately, was to attend George Shaw's funeral -a moving experience. We miss him very much.

On 17 March, a 'driech' morning saw the company on our way to the Fairy Glen, a walk being held in memory of George, as this was one of his favourites. Some spring bulbs from his garden were planted where we usually stop for lunch so we will see them on our future visits to that area.

The Burn of Sheeoch in the Durris area was our outing on 31 Mayand, for those who did the complete walk, it was a long, hard slog! Tired? That is an understatement, but great satisfaction that we had made it.

The weeks roll past and June has not been exactly 'flaming' but we had a lovely walk in Glen Tanar on 14th with no restrictions but a tub to dabble our boots in prior to, and exiting from, our walk. Everything looks so fresh with so many shades of green to admire. Deeside at its best. I will not be accompanying the walkers on their next two walks but I believe Bennachie could be the venue.

Happy walking while I am on the other side of the Atlantic and wishing all, whether staying at home or travelling, a happy and carefree holiday.

Betty Cruickshank

CULTER & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

By the time most of you are reading this, our Annual Flower Show will be over -the flowers gone, the baking eaten, the trophies handed out for another year.

Culter's gardens have been looking lovely this year, despite the slow start to the summer and we were delighted to have some new entries for the garden competition. The colourful containers around the village well deserved their awards too; I particularly enjoy the pots on display along the North DeesideRoad as I drive in and out of the village.

So, a big thank you for all the support for the Show and congratulations to all the winners, hope you all do well next year too! 

Catherine Lacy Secretary

I have just taken on this post at Cults Community Centre but what does it entail?

I am part of a team that will develop and promote adult education courses/lectures in your area, from Culter to Cults, during the day or evening. We are here to support your interests but we cannot do this alone. We need your help. What do you want to learn about? What are your interests? Does a class already exist and you don't know about it?

Please call me with your requests or suggestions -Debbie McRonald, Cults Community Centre, telephone number 868858.

Culter Class a Success

A class set up by Community Education, after requests from local residents in Culter, ended in May and was a great success.

Former lecturer, Ann Duff, gave a series of talks to a group of 10 adults who met weekly in Culter Library. The subject was , Appreciating 20th Century Architecture in Scotland and the North East'. These lectures were supported by Aberdeen College and aimed at local adults.

It is intended to run a similar sized class on different subjects in the near future but we would be interested to hear from local residents on what they would interested in. If you have any suggestions, please contact Cults Community Centre on 868858.

CULTER HILLWALKING CLUB

We have all so enjoyed lacing up our boots and getting back on the hills after such a long period of inaction due to foot-and-mouth. Our first real excursion was in May when, on a brilliant, sunny day; we set off from Inverey to climb Carn Liath. My impressions of the day were of sparkling, rushing burns, tadpoles and tiny frogs in puddles, feet crunching on stony paths, dotterel almost tame on the high tops then, from the summit, an all round vista of sparkling snow-capped hills seemingly going on for ever.

In June we bagged a Monroe! We started from Glen Clunie following a burn to a pretty little waterfall, then we went seriously up and up. Much puffing and panting later, we found ourselves on the summit of Cam an Tuirc, walking warily over the scree and gasping at the view, which made our exertions so worthwhile. The most spectacular sight was the view over Coire Loch Kandar, the sheer rock faces going down to the brooding black loch far below and the hardy red deer lodged in all manner of .seemingly inaccessible places.

From there, we had a pleasant, gradual descent to Loch Callater, Auchallator and a welcome pint in Braemar.

I have to admit to being AWOL in July when our members climbed Mount Keen from Invermark, along the glen to Queen's Well in beautiful Glen Mark, then by the Ladder Bum to the summit. My walking chums tell me they had a great day out.

As well as 'high' walking, we also organise a mid-month series of low-level walks, some on the hills, some coastal. Watch out for our notices in Culter and perhaps join us. 

TENANTS FIRST

WHERE TENANTS ARE IN CONTROL

TENANTS FIRST, the largest housing co-op in Scotland, has houses in Peterculter and throughout the North-east. The co-op is unusual in that it is owned and controlled by its members -the tenants. Tenants have a real say in how their housing is managed, now and in the future.

One of the co-op's main aims is to give tenants as much local control as possible. Local Tenant Management Boards have control over their own budgets, improvements to homes in their area and rent setting. Each Board is represented on the Committee of Management, which has overall responsibility for the running of the co-op.

The co-op aims to:

· Provide good quality, well- maintained housing at affordable rents;

· Develop new housing;

· Contribute to the local community and economy.

Making a profit is not one of the co-op's aims however, any profits it does make, are used to improve homes or keep rents low.

The co-operative wants more of its tenants to be involved in its running. The way to do this is to become a member of Deeside Board. We meet every six weeks to deal with issues affecting the co-operative. Full training and support are provided by experienced and qualified staff. As a Board member you will face new challenges and learn new skills and you are sure to find the experience rewarding.

To learn more, contact: Eleanor McEwan at

Tenants First, 23 Albert Street, Aberdeen. Telephone 01224628400,

or e-mail Eleanor at: emcewan @tenantsfirst.corn

CULTER FOOTBALL CLUB

Successful Season: Culter's 200/2001 Season ended in the blaze of glory by beating Premier Division Champions Longside twice in the last week of the season to win the Camstructure Trophy (McLeman Cup) and the Jimmy Gibb Trophy.

April Award: Culter picked up the accolade as Stewart Milne Homes First Division Team of the Month for April 2001. It was Culter's fourth time in the season -previously winning in August, September and November 2000.

Annual Awards: Winners of our Annual Awards were announced at the Club's Season-end Social evening on Friday 22 June at Lawries Hotel, owned by Club Honorary President Eric Duncan.

Club Vice-President, Team Secretary and SJFA/NRJFA Correspondent Doug Grant again won the Dick Brown Memorial Trophy, which is presented annually to the member who has done most for our Club in the past season. Doug's consistency is proved by the fact that he won this award last season and previously won it in 1988/ 89. In the Club's Annual Review of the Season, President Doug Jamieson stated, "Permit me to give special thanks to Doug Grant for the many roles he has performed, not least in his links with the players and team management but also as the Club Vice-President, and his patience working with me!"

Neil McRitchie 'Toastie' was toast of the town with his landslide victory of the Larry Barclay Trophy for the Player of the Year. His votes were as good as his goal tally -a winner from the word go. Neil scored an amazing 52 goals in season 2000/2001 to undoubtedly have the major impact in our successful year. We certainly enjoyed the McRitchie Magic! Neil now becomes our top scorer since we joined the Junior FA in 1987/88. He surpasses Alan Walker's tally of 43 goals scored in Season 1990/1991.

Reinstatement Recruits: Team Manager Bobby Gray has completed the signings of two players reinstated from the Highland League. We welcome back Peter Stewart from Keith and newcomer Gavin Hendry joins from Lossiemouth.

Local Leaves: Our only remaining local Culter player, Cameron 'Soapy' McKay has been transferred to fellow Junior side Lads Club.

Present and Past: Culter played an Aberdeen FC X1 as the first friendly prior to the 2001/2002 Season. The smart young Aberdeen side won 3-0 on the sunny Saturday 28 July 2001. In the Bon- accord issue from over a century ago, dated 10 February 1894, the result was Culter 3 v Aberdeen Reserves 2. It stated, "We have a complaint from Culter against the Aberdeen Reserves, who are charged with laying a Culterite prostrate, while another had to leave the field owing to the friendly (!) attentions of one of the Reserves. We can scarcely credit this story. What have the Reserves to say?"

In the Bon-accord issue dated 17 February 1984, the results were Culter 7 v Banchory a and Culter Reserves 3 v Banchory Reserves 3. "The alleged rough play at Culter: We have received a denial of the charges of the Culter Club as to the alleged rough play on the part of Aberdeen Reserves. The Secretary of the Reserves assures us that none of the Culter team left the field, and explains in a very intelligent way how the Culterite was laid prostrate on the field. Seeing the ball was travelling into touch, the left- back of the Reserves guarded its way thither, and was charged by an opponent, who, in tackling his man came off second best and found himself on the 'floor'. Perhaps our Culter friends will stick to the truth in future, and instead of carping with the teams who visit them, provide a decent place to strip in. After playing in a mud-hole for 90 minutes, a wee drop of water would come in handy."

Albert J Moir

PHOTOGRAPHS

Doug Grant being presented with his trophy by Mrs. Val Jamieson and Neil McRitchie receiving his trophy from Mrs. Lynn Milne

CULTER POST OFFICE

Internet Computer within Culter Post Office

Within our Post Office "banking hall" we now have a PC and printer that customers can use to surf the net, send Emails and view local information. The Internet and Email facilities cost l0p per minute but the local information pages can be accessed free of charge.

When customers are not using the PC, instead of a screen saver appearing we can use the screen to display Computer Screen "posters". These posters can have built-in links to websites -one click on the screen and the customer could be taken direct to a website. Some local businesses are already advertising using these Computer Screen posters.

Free use of the facilities for Community Groups

Although there are small charges for individual and businesses to use the Internet, we would like to offer local Clubs, Associations and other Non- Profit making organisations free use of the facilities.

The package gives local community groups a showcase or bulletin board for promotional purposes as well an efficient method for communicating with their members.

· Forthcoming events, meetings or competitions could be advertised

· Contact details could be input to the local information section

· Photographs and updates could be input

· Club / Association newsletters could be emailed to groups of members

· There could be links to existing websites.

 

Using the free local pages, customers using the Post Office could then find out about the local community groups.

The Computer Screen Poster Adverts and pages of local information can be produced quickly and simply using the Microsoft Office products. If clubs or associations do not have the means, we can put together all the necessary input.

Any organisations who are interested should contact Colin Hay 

Email colin.hayl @tinyworld.co.uk

Free intemet/Emaillessons for Individuals

During the few weeks that we have had the PC, we have noticed that some people who would like to access the World Wide Web or perhaps send Emails to family and friends lack the experience of computers to do so. If there is a demand we can organise short, informal coaching sessions for individuals or small groups to help increase knowledge of the Internet and Emails. If a short coaching session would interest you please ask for details at the Post Office counter.

PARTICIPATION GROUP

Our last official meeting was on 10 April in the village hall, when the Group held its Annual General Meeting combined with an open meeting when Dr Arun Mukerjee spoke on Communicable Diseases affecting Children.

The Committee met some days later at the Medical Centre to discuss future plans before taking a summer break. We decided that we would be unable to support the Culter Gala this year as most of us would be away on holiday at that time.

We considered the possibility of holding another open meeting later in the year, but in view of the apparent lack of interest from the local community in the subjects we select for presentation, the committee would wish to discuss this further with the Medical Practice before we make any arrangements.

We are sorry we have had to discontinue the supply of the Press & Journal in the waiting room but our funds are almost depleted and there has not been sufficient income of late from money raised at the open meetings.

On a happier note, as Chairman, I was pleased to accept an invitation to attend the official opening of the Medical Practice in June when the Chief Medical Officer of the Scottish Office declared the new building open. It was a very pleasant ceremony and interesting to discover from our guest speaker that the original Peterculter Medical Centre was the first in the whole of Scotland at the time and was the envy of all GPs due to its modem concept and updated facilities.

For the record, I can confirm that the updated facilities in the Practice, and the attractive decor is a credit to those involved in the planning and workmanship. As residents of Culter we should appreciate these changes. Finally, I would ask you to consider joining the PPPG Committee if it is to continue to exist. We need some younger members with new ideas to carry the concept forward. If you are interested, please contact the Receptionist at the Medical Practice.

George Buckenham Chairman PPPG

CULTS COMMUNITY CHANGE TO NEW TITLE

Following a review of the Community Education Service some time ago, the Education and Leisure Committee agreed that there would be a common model constitution for both ex-Grampian Regional Council 'Community Education Centres' and ex-District Council 'Comrnunity Centres'.

Cults has had its new constitution adopted and this will bring about a number of changes.

The Centre will be known as 'Cults Community Centre' and not 'Cults Community Education Centre'. The Management Committee also will have a change of name from 'Cults & District Area Community Education Management Committee' to 'Cults Community Centre Association'.

There are a number of implications for the new arrangements which will hopefully:

a) give more responsibility to local committees

b) focus work on the Centre and not on the area

c) by undertaking (a) free up professional workers' time to reduce some of the administration and management functions.

The new committees will not be clerked by the local Community Education Workers who, in turn, will serve as 'supervisor officers' and advise committees accordingly: At a recent meeting of the Cults Community Centre Association a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and Secretary were appointed and they now require a Treasurer -can you help? We are looking for someone who can give advice and information but will not be required to undertake any cash handling or book-keeping duties. If you would like more information or would like to be considered for the post, then please contact:

Peter Sanderson,Principal Community Education Worker 

Telephone 868858 or write to Cults Community Centre, Earlswells Road, Cults, Aberdeen, AB15 9RG.

CULTER SAFER ROADS PETITION 2001

THE great support we've had for this petition from the village hall, health centre, church, primary school and local businesses has been tremendous. We have collected a final total of 701 signatures and many personal letters have already been written- but we need more personal letters!

Culter Safer Roads Petition 2001 targets improvements to road safety for vehicles and pedestrians on the North Deeside Road at the Kennerty turn down to Millside and at the dangerous Malcolm Road junction. As you know, this part of our village is affected by heavy lorry traffic using our village as a city bypass between Stonehaven and Kintore.

This area has the following hazards: .

· A sharp turn up Malcolm Road .

· A blind corner at the Spar shop .

· A blind summit on the road down to Millside

· Absent or inadequate pavements

 

We are working for: .A pavement leading from Nth Deeside Road to Millside, and improved pavements at the Malcolm Road junction for people coming from Johnston Gardens-

· Warning signs and road surface markers, to alert drivers of the hazards listed above.

· Slowing of the traffic, particularly the lorries.

· Gateways into Culter such as at the entry into Banchory

 

A full display of the road safety report and pictures is at the village hall. Ann Begg, MP for Aberdeen South, visited it and gave us her support.

At the June meeting of Culter Community Council, Mr Andrew Smith, principal engineer, traffic management department of Aberdeen City Council, accepted our petition of 701 names. Local City Councillor, Pam MacDonald, was also present. All the points made in our petition were discussed and Mr Smith promised a survey of the volume and weight of traffic at the Malcolm road junction.

Meanwhile Aberdeen City Council will look into signs in the area and our request for a pavement down to Millside on the blind summit. Mr Smith told us a restriction of lorries or a weight restriction would not be possible until the Western Peripheral Road has been built.

At the time of writing a meeting with MSP Nicol Stephen is planned for mid July.

We also have had discussions with Sergeant Ian Linklater of police traffic management with regards to the many comments people made in the petition (speeding, parking etc.). Please write in support of the petition to:

Mr A. Smith,

Principal Engineer,

Traffic Management,

Aberdeen City Council

Dept Environment & Property, St Nicholas House Aberdeen, ABl0 lEZ

CULTER COURIER

To enquire about advertising in the Culter Courier (or to submit an article)

Please contact:

 M.J. Skinner

Email: m.j.skinner@connectfree.co.uk