The MV Isle of Arran started Arran’s full summer service on Wednesday after a turbulent start to the season.
The island’s second ferry has only been operating part-time on the Arran route for the past month after the breakdown of the MV Clansman saw the Arran timetable and others on the network face disruption as ferry operators CalMac hurried to redistribute vessels to service other routes.
MV Hebrides, which was due to enter dry dock for its annual service, was also delayed and pressed into further service owing to a shortage of available vessels in the fleet.
Repairs to the MV Clansman – which suffered a breakdown because of a propulsion system failure – was delayed as parts had to be created by a specialist firm in Denmark. A temporary repair has been undertaken but a permanent repair will be needed in June when a new propeller shaft will be fitted.
Normal service on the Ardrossan to Brodick route has now started with a two-boat service which will continue until Monday September 24. The Campbeltown service, also operated by the MV Isle of Arran, has also started a month late.
Balmichael Visitor Centre has been many things since it first opened 21 years ago.
A look back at the Banner archive says it was first opened at Easter 1997 by David and Gillian McClelland with initially three shops, a tearoom, quad bikes and, remarkably, a small motor museum.
Over the years it has had some good times and bad times. For some years it was a thriving enterprise with craft shops and more recently the Arran Family Fun Park, which seemed to have good potential, but did not last long.
Now new plans have been unveiled for self-catering accommodation and camping pods, which are all the rage, and it would be good to see some new life breathed into the site.
But with seven acres of land, we have to wonder if Steel Stone Holdings Ltd, a London based real estate firm, who have made the planning application may have further plans for the site.
They say they have already ruled out owner occupied homes as they believe that such a use would be incompatible with the rest of the business.
But what is that business to be? We will watch developments with interest.
Isle of Arran Distillers is celebrating winning the coveted Double Gold accreditation at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its 10-year-old single malt.
The competition is one of the most influential and respected events in the industry. The rigorous judging process puts an emphasis on the integrity of the whisky, whilst the blind tasting guarantees every entry is judged fairly.
Recognition from the San Francisco event is a universally recognised indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
The winning dram – the 10-year-old single malt – is the classic expression of Arran. The initial rush of rich vanilla sweetness gives way to a touch of cinnamon that adds a spicy edge to the soft and sweet texture. The citrus notes have rounded with age and reveal new depths of character against a background of sweet oak.
Speaking about the award, Euan Mitchell, managing director of Isle of Arran Distillers, said: ‘We’re proud to be flying the flag for Scotland on the international stage by claiming the Double Gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Our 10-year-old single malt, which many consider to be the flagship whisky for the island, is among esteemed company receiving this prestigious accolade. It is incredibly rewarding for the team to know our whisky is being enjoyed all over the world.
‘We are bursting with innovation and passion for the products we produce. Being recognised like this by our peers gives us even more drive and determination to continue experimenting with whisky and growing the business.’
The 10-year-old single malt was also one of four runners-up at the International Spirits Challenge 2018. The Lochranza Reserve, The Bothy Quarter Cask Batch 3 and the 18-year-old single malt also claimed silver medals. The four whiskies passed a blind tasting by a renowned expert panel of specialist judges to beat strong competition to amass a haul of accolades.
Now in its 23rd year, the International Spirits Challenge is one of the premier events promoting outstanding spirits from across the globe.
Organiser Justin Smith said: ‘This year has seen more entries than ever before, with producers entering a diverse mix of spirits from across the globe.’
The award winning 10-year-old single malt. NO_B21malt01
A walker in Blackwaterfoot who found a camera memory card is appealing for any help in tracking down the owners.
Keen to return the SD card which contains many holiday photographs, finder Malcolm Whitmore said: ‘On the card is a large file of pictures from what looks like the holiday of a lifetime to India. I’m sure that someone is very miffed that they have lost the photo memories of the trip.
‘Maybe by publishing a picture someone will recognise them – friends, B&B providers, hotel staff- and we can get the card back to the owner.’
If you recognise either of the two ladies and could help in returning the memory card to the owner then email: editor@arranbanner.co.uk or contact Malcolm directly.
Charles Fforde of Arran Estates is clearing of trees at Cladach which will be a car park for those visiting his latest, and exciting, project which includes the refurbishment of Neary’s House.
In creating an entire visitor centre, an old cottage has been refurbished for a bistro and another cottage is earmarked for the Arran Brewery. There is also the possibility of Neary’s House housing the Museum of Childhood which is currently based in Pitlochry, but who are looking for a new home for the exhibits.
Mr Fforde said: ‘We are trying to get a variety of different interests so that people would spend a morning here.’
Title indemnity
Kildonan School and school house, which was advertised recently, has attracted considerable interest. At the time, under the previous authority, there had been some doubt about who might be the owner of the property.
The Banner has seen the schedule which North Ayrshire Council specifies no price but asks to know what plans the purchaser might have. Most onerous however is the fact that no title has yet been found for the property and the buyer will receive a ‘title indemnity policy’. This has dissuaded a few potential purchasers off the property but there is still a great deal of interest in purchasing the property.
Tulip display
The council offices in Lamlas have some dark purple tulips decorating the garden at the front. Council officer Gus MacLeod said that they were not given any bulbs this year due to cutbacks but that gardener Stevie Bunyan had seen bulbs rotting unused at the Co-op and asked if he may have them. It was arranged and now the council offices have something akin to Dumas’ black tulip display.
Lavinia Gibbs and Ann Banks of the Arran Civic Trust are hosting an exhibition on kit houses at the Brodick Library over the next two months. 01_B21twe01
Dave Tapson was one of 157 people who gave blood in Brodick Hall last Sunday. Attending him are the Blood Donor team of sister Joyce Campbell, staff nurse Pam Morrow and donor attendant Ann Cranney. 01_B21twe02
Former guide leader and now brownie leader, Sheena Miller, presented a Shiskine team of guides with a trophy for winning a cooking challenge at the Dyemill last Saturday. 01_B21twe03
A jubilant young Brodick team which defeated Shiskine 2-1 in last Saturday’s Arran Haulage Cup final at Lamlash. Brodick goals were scored by schoolboys Calum McFadzean and Russell Hendry. 01_B21twe04
Ellen Ferguson plays the first bowl of the season at the Whiting Bay Bowling Club opening last Saturday. 01_B21twe05
A bid to breathe new life into the Balmichael Visitor Centre near Shiskine has been made.
A planning application has been made for the conversion of existing buildings to form up to nine self-catering accommodation units and install six camping pods with an amenity block and parking.
The application has been made by Steel Stone Holding Ltd which also bears the name of Callum Ford, who was involved with the previous owner James L Clark.
Balmichael opened as Arran Family Fun Park in spring 2015 but closed in less than two years with the previous owner trying the raffle off the seven acre estate in a prize draw. Balmichael is still on the market valued at £400,000. The new applicants say Mr Clark is not involved.
In a supporting statement with their two planning applications, which are under consideration by North Ayrshire Council planners, the company admit there have been problems in the past.
It states: ‘The Balmichael Visitor Centre has provided an outdoor leisure and play facility for many years. Over this time, however, there has been a succession of owners who have each added and changed the facility in an attempt to make it financially viable. These attempts have proved unsuccessful and the facility has remained closed for over a year while the current owner has marketed it for sale. It was closed for three years under the previous ownership.
‘With the introduction of RET on the ferry service to Arran, there has been a significant increase in the number of visitors and accommodation on the island has been working at capacity, especially in the self-catering sector where visitors are finding accommodation difficult to obtain. At the same time, the numerous outbuildings at Balmichael, which are of sound sandstone construction with slate roofs, are in good condition and could be readily converted to form self-catering units for holiday lets.
‘To augment the self-catering units, it is also proposed to install camping pods on an adjacent area of ground to provide a facility for a growing market which is looking for a camping experience with more comfort. These pods will blend into the landscape and would be far less obtrusive than the 15 metre high adventure course which was previously granted planning permission.
‘The self-catering units and camping pods would require servicing and it is anticipated that this would create employment for four people. Access already exists to the site and there is ample space to form appropriate parking and amenity facilities.
‘In conclusion, the proposal for a change of use to create self-catering holiday accommodation and camping pods will enable Balmichael to become viable again, providing much needed visitor accommodation on Arran, and preserve the existing buildings without any detriment to the visual amenity of the locality,’ the statement adds.
Self-catering and camping plans have been submitted for the Balmichael Visitor Centre. NO_B21bcalmichael01
Arran residents have been voicing their opinion as part of a region wide consultation on North Ayrshire Council’s future development plans.
At a public meeting at the Ormidale Pavilion on Tuesday, residents, business owners and those with an interest in local development met with strategic planning manager Neale McIlvanney and planning officers Neil McAleer and Joanna Glacken.
Providing information on the proposed Local Development Plan – which sets out how the council will guide development and investment in the area over the next 20 years – the planners provided visitors with details on how their contributions can be lodged to be considered when finalising the document.
Once the consultation period is complete, the proposed plan is passed to Scottish ministers for examination. A reporter is then appointed who publishes a report of the findings and outlines whether any changes are required.
The proposed Local Development Plan is then adopted and becomes the legal document consulted when considering planning applications in North Ayrshire.
Tom Tracey of the Arran Economic Group discusses the Local Development Plan with planning department consultants.
Arran Brewery’s new helipad was in action for the first time last week with the first visitors for a brewery tour arriving by helicopter.
The brewery has planning permission to build a terminal on the site above Kildonan, which will consist of a passenger lounge and crew room, as well as offering a radio service for arrivals and departures.
Managing director Gerald Michaluk, a helicopter pilot himself, said: ‘It is great to see our first visitors arriving by helicopter. We are hopeful more will follow when it is known we have the facility available. We plan to begin groundworks on the new terminal this summer.’
Once completed Mr Michaluk said the brewery hoped to offer sightseeing tours through its sister company, HJS helicopters, at some point in the future.
He added: ‘The regulations regarding flying helicopters over water are quite restricting, if affordable helicopters are to be used, but never say never.’
The brewery is allowing free landings with prior notification and fuel will be available on site after the terminal is complete. Anyone wishing to use the helipad should contact the brewery on 01770 302353 prior to arrival.
Private care home Cooriedoon in Whiting Bay marked its 30th birthday with an elegant garden party, where residents, visitors and staff enjoyed a host of activities and events on the sunny afternoon.
Original founder Celia Butler joined in the celebrations and was presented with a bouquet of flowers from care manager Gwen Walker, while long-standing nurse Elaine Kelso was presented with a long-term service gift.
The celebrations took place in the superbly manicured gardens of the impressive sandstone building which was built in 1900 and suitably started life as the Whiting Bay Hotel.
With a nod to the colourful mixture of nationalities working at the residential home, the garden was adorned with exotic Indian, Philippine, Israeli and Scottish ornaments in the cultural garden.
Elsewhere in the garden, visitors and residents enjoyed strawberries and cream, sandwiches and patisseries, and Coorie curry, while children were entertained at the bouncy castle and with face painting.
Residents enjoyed holistic therapies and massages from Jill McKillop as everyone was entertained by the harmonic sounds of Arran singer Mike Bailey.
Appropriate for the spring sunshine, a ‘most elegant hat’ competition and a raffle added to the fun atmosphere of the day.
The afternoon’s celebrations were rounded off with thank you speeches and a symbolic release of peace balloons by Gilbert Norris.
It may have been a glorious day for the Goatfell hill race last Saturday but the temperatures, in the mid 20s, were too hot for the runners.
That did not deter 175 hardy souls to take on the 874m Goatfell challenge – now organised by the Shettleston Harriers – with only six people unable to finish the gruelling 15.5 km race. But there was to be no record breaking runs this year.
Arran was well represented by around 16 runners, including a number of first-time participants. They included Danny Head, who chose to celebrate his 27th birthday by running the race, and Juliette Walsh who joined her husband Andrew for the first time. Several also sported new bright yellow Arran Fell Runners t-shirts.
After a mass start at Ormidale Park the runners head out the castle drive and up the tourist path to the top of Goatfell and back which this year, given the fine day, was busy with walkers making another obstacle for the runners to have to avoid.
In first place, with a remarkable time of 1:17:19, was Shettleston Harriers runner Tom Owens, followed, by some distance, by John Yells of Lochaber Athletic Club with a time of 1:22:37, while Lochaber fellow Richard Macleod took third spot with a time of 1:27:43. First female over the line was Ruth Crewe of Westerlands Cross Country Club who finished with a time of 1:40:44.
Trophies are also awarded in a local category for the first male and female to cross the line. Taking the honours were Malcolm Wilkinson came in first place with a time of 1:44:47, while the first female was Corinna Goeckeritz with a time of 1:55:26.
Race organiser Peter Mackie of the Shettleston Harriers said: ‘A great day out was had by all, with special thanks to our helpers from the club, the Arran Mountain Rescue Team, Arran Pipe Band, Brodick Improvements Committee and our friends at Salomon for generously donating some cracking prizes.’
The course record, which had stood for 23 years, was broken by not one but two runners last year, with Murray Strain of Hunters Bog Trotters now holding the record of 1:12:11.
DEATHS
Ahara – George Alfred
Unexpectedly but peacefully at his home, Laurel Bank, Lamlash, on Sunday 13th May 2018.
His passing leaves a legacy of love for his family.
Cross – Dorothy Joyce;
formerly of Brodick. Died in Norfolk 28/12/2017.
Interment of ashes at Brodick New Cemetery, 2pm Tuesday 5th June to which friends are respectfully invited.
Gentleman – William Wren;
Formerly of Glenartney Hotel, beloved husband of Marion, dear father of Heather, Angus and the late Hamish, brother of Sheena, proud grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral service at Lochranza Church on Monday 28th May at 12 noon and thereafter to Lamlash Cemetery. Family flowers only please.
Roberts – John;
Died, after a short illness, on 18th May. Much loved father to James and Peter, grandfather to Adam, brother to Bill and brother-in-law to Sandie. Funeral in Whiting Bay Church of Scotland, on Saturday 2nd June at 12:00. No flowers please, donations to ARCAS.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
CURRIE – Allan;
The Currie family would like to express their sincere thanks for all the support received, not only in these last weeks but over the past few years. Particular thanks must go to Mo, Seonaid and Davey whose help has been invaluable and to all who regularly visited dad. Special thanks to dad’s wonderful Homecare Team, the District Nurses and for the excellent care given at the Acute Stroke Unit at Crosshouse Hospital. Thanks also to Lodge St Molios, those involved in dad’s respite care at Montrose House, the staff at the Arran Medical Practice and Lamlash Hospital. Grateful thanks to Rev Elizabeth Watson for her very personal tribute to dad and to Clair & David Hendry, the team from Lamlash Golf Club, Eleanor’s Flowers and Phyllis. To the large number of people who attended dad’s service and for all the cards and visits, we thank you. £1,500 was raised in dad’s memory and will be split between ArCaS and the Hospital Supporters League.
The 5th annual Connor Smith Memorial meeting was particularly poignant this year at the Quad x Des Nations motocross competition at Cingoli, Italy, owing to the trophy being brought to the UK for the first time after being won by a British motorcyclist.
The meeting, and the Connor Smith Memorial Trophy, is in honour of Shiskine quad racing champion, Connor Smith who tragically died during a quad racing event in 2013.
Last year the American riders took home the bulk of the prizes but at the most recent Quad x Des Nations – where eight riders represented the UK over the two days – four riders took podium finishes, bringing the silverware back to the UK.
A very on-form and consistent Harry Walker took a win in moto 1, then a p2 in class behind Mastronardi on Moto 2. Saving the best for last in the superfinal he took the win with a breath-taking pass on Patrick Turrini on his Weinen Yamaha in the last lap with 500 metres to go right in front of everyone to see. The grandstand and pit box both lit up and he instantly became the star of the day with the Italian crowds and becoming the only British rider to bring the trophy back to the UK in its five years existence, under the close observation of Connor’s father, Bill Smith.
Alfie Walker on his new 250cc Yamuski started with a cautious approach to day one, but with a night to sleep on it spared the Italians no mercy with two confident wins and winning the youth 250cc class by some margin ending up fourth overall in the adult support and vet group.
Ayrton Knowles who had a mixed Saturday with a spill on one of the large double jumps, pulled his way back through to third in the sport class with three very strong rides for the youngster.
Scot, Murray Graham who has had the pleasure of riding most of the five visits to Cingoli set a blistering pace in timed training and looked to be going to the gate first on Sunday only to be summonsed to P3 after both Walker and Mastronardi pulled their best laps out with seconds to spare. Murray slept on it and in warm up proved again he could still go fastest, he took runner up honours on the weekend with p3/2/3 in class.
Both Steve Pinder and Matt Alberti experienced the perils the big tracks can bring with a couple of spills in the vet class too. Adam Robinson finished a very respectable fifth in class and Mark Wilson fourth.
The whole event was a very heartfelt tribute to the life of Connor with all participating pro and sport riders demonstrating a fitting tribute by revving their bikes at Connor’s memorial stone on Saturday evening.
The meetings manage to maintain their momentum due to the generosity of the Smith family to keep the memories alive of Connor’s hobby and the solidarity of the UK Quad clubs and the supporters.
Winners podium left to right. Connor’s dad Bill Smith, Matt Alberti, Ayrton Knowles, Steve Pinder, Alfie Walker,Murray Graham, winner Harry Walker Adam Robinson, Mark Wilson and Patrick Turrini. No_B22connor01
On the Quad: Left to Right Master Alfie Walker, Mr Harry Walker and Mr Darren Bridge.
The Quad x Des Nations is held in Cingoli, Italy where the Connor Smith Memorial meeting takes place. No_B22connor01
Connor Smith Memorial Trophy has been brought to the UK by on-form rider Harry Walker. No_B22connor02
Attendees at the meeting were treated to a Sunday lunch under the grandstand by the Motorcycle Club of Cingoli. No_B22connor03
Winning riders Alfie Walker, Harry Walker and Darren Bridge. No_B22connor04
Ewan McKinnon won the Club Championship for the 11th time when he beat Matt Keir two up in the final last Saturday and is now just one victory off tying with the record 12 of Stevie Bunyan.
The match, which was all square after a fairly average front nine, came to life as they headed for home. In very windy conditions, Matt’s level par score for the back nine was excellent, but Ewan prevailed with birdies at the 11th, 12th and 18th, where he hit a 4 iron to three feet. Many compliments were paid to the greatly improved condition of the course.
In the semi-finals, the previous night, Ewan McKinnon beat Gordon Hendry and Matt Keir beat Greg McCrae.
Fixture: Saturday June 2 and Sunday June 3, Arran Open Championship.
Ladies Section: Friday May 25, Ladies Championship. Two sporting semi final matches played on Friday evening; one between Ann May and Kate McAdam, with Ann going through to the final; the other between Fiona Henderson and Susan Butchard, was littered with birdies and worthy of a final in itself. Fiona just pipped Susan at the 18th hole, to join Ann in the final.
A wonderful display of well wishing posters and silverware was on show in the clubhouse and shop, courtesy of Jackie and Graham. When Fiona and Ann arrived for the final on Saturday afternoon. Captain Dougie started the final and accompanied by caddies Kate and Susan the match was played on a lovely sunny day on a dry manicured course. The game progressed in the true spirit of golf, with Ann managing to retain the championship title. Fiona was unfortunate with at least four putts shaving the hole, the ball refusing to drop.
Fiona, a past Lady Champion, the first time, 42 years ago, demonstrated a remarkable achievement in reaching the final in 2018, still playing superb golf and maintaining a great competitive attitude.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to spectate, support and contribute to a wonderful Championship Day at Brodick Golf Club
Wednesday May 23, Summer Cup, 33 played, CSS 64. 1 Iain Sillars 78-15=63, 2 Christopher MacNeil 88-24=64, 3 David Hendry 78-13=65 ACB. Scratch Ewan McKinnon 67.
Sunday May 27, Sweep, 16 played, CSS 64. 1 John May 85-21=64 ACB, 2 Bill Donaldson 81-17=64, 3 Donald McKinnie 75-11=64. ScratchBob McCrae 75 ACB,
Fixtures: Saturday June 2 and Sunday June 3, Arran Open Championship Ladies: Tuesday June 5, medal and medal finals, ballots at 12.30pm and 4.45pm.
Lamlash Golf Club
Thursday May 24, Summer Cup, CSS 66. 1 Stuart Campbell 71-6=65, 2 Colin Richardson 83-16=67 BIH, 3 Iain Murchie 72-5=67. Scratch Stuart Campbell 71 BIH over Dougie MacFarlane. Magic twos Allan Colqhoun @ 4th, Ian Bremner @16th, Willie Currie @5th, Todd Jameson @13th.
Sunday May 27, Summer Stableford, CSS 65, 35pts to Stableford. 1 Paul Cowan 35pts, 2 Andy Smith 33pts, 3 Alistair Ferrier 32pts. Scratch, Paul Cowan 30pts. Magic twos Billy O’Connor @16th.
Fixtures: Sunday June 3, Hamilton Bowl round two, 8.30am, 9.30am and 12.30pm. Draw for local Thomson Cup. Thursday June 7, Summer Cup, make up own games, see starter for times.
Whiting Bay Golf Club
Friday May 25, Ladies Medal. A total of five ladies played in magnificent weather and conditions with a dry course making for fast greens and extra distance. 1 Tricia Tait 38pts, 28, 2 Jean Davidson 38pts, 25. Magic twos Jean Davidson @4th. Congratulations to both ladies who each had their handicap cut by one.
Friday May 25, Medal (Club Championship qualifier), 22 played, CSS 63. 1 John Pennycott 13, 63 ACB, 2 Jamie Macpherson 6, 63, 3 Andrew Martin 12, 64, 4 Corey Allan 7, 65. Lowest gross Danny Head 69. Magic twos Kevin McAleney @4th, Ryan Armstrong and David Morrison @7th, Corey Allan @ 14th.
Sunday May 27, McKelvie Cup round two. 24 played, CSS 63. 1 Kevin McAleney 12, 61, 2 Nicol Auld 5, 63 and lowest gross, 3 Wolfi Kroner 15, 64, 4 Paul Robson 15, 64. Magic twos Stuart Paterson @17th.
Fixtures: Friday June 1, postponed Smiddy Brae Stableford at 10am. Sunday June 3, Club Championship and JC Reid Trophy finals all day. Wednesday June 6, Summer Trophy.
Machrie Bay Golf Club
Ladies section: Tuesday May 29, CCQ round one, CSS 68, R/O. 1 E Kelso 98-21=77, 2 Piet Johnston 100-21=79, 3 Aileen Latona 104-23=81. Kema Kenda 97, Elizabeth Kelso 98, Piet Johnson 100, Jenni Turnbull 100, Aileen Latona 104.
Men: CCQ round one, CSS 66. 1 Hamish Bannatyne 72-6=66 BIH, 2 Ross Trail 84-18=66, 3 D Jeffrey 80-8=72. Hamish Bannatyne 72, Sandy Murray 79, David Jeffrey 80, Ross Trail 84, Willie Kelso 89, Donald Logan 90, Brian Sherwood 92, Alistair MacDonald 93, Colin Rutterford 94, Phil Betley 96, Campbell NR.
Fixtures: Saturday June 2, Duncan Sillars Cup and second round Gents Club Championship qualifier, 12.30pm tee off. Monday June 4, Gents quarter finals, 5.30pm tee off. Tuesday June 5, Ladies second round Club Championship and Peter Sutton, 12.30pm/5.30pm tee off. Thursday June 7, Quarter finals of Presidents cup, 5.30pm tee off.
Corrie Golf Club
Wednesday May 23, Medal and Magic twos. 1 J Adam 73-9=67 and scratch, 2 J McGovern 81-13=67. Magic twos Graeme Andrew @8th but not magic.
Fixtures: Saturday June 2, Medal, ballots at 9am and 2pm. Wednesday June 6, Wednesday Medal and Magic twos, ballot at 5pm.
Winner of the McKelvie Cup at Whiting Bay, Kevin McAleney receives the trophy from match secretary, Dave Hackett.
Champions at Brodick Golf Club, Ann May and Ewan McKinnon. No_B22golf01
Winner of the McKelvie Cup at Whiting Bay, Kevin McAleney receives the trophy from match secretary, Dave Hackett. No_B22golf02
The Friends of Dr Graham’s Homes are holding a coffee morning in Corrie and Sannox Village Hall on Saturday June 9, from 10.30am until 12noon to raise funds for the children’s homes in Kalimpong, India.
As usual there will be delicious home baking, bric a brac and some plants for sale. Not to be missed is the fabulous raffle, stimulating company and interesting chat. A warm welcome is extended to all.
Arran’s RNLI crew rescued a distressed and vulnerable man from the waters of Brodick Bay over the May Day bank holiday weekend.
At 11.30am last Saturday, the inshore lifeboat crew had to respond with haste as the pagers sounded to reports of a person in the water in Brodick Bay. The crew assembled and launched the inshore lifeboat Rachel Hedderwick and while enroute the crew were informed by Belfast Coastguard that extra care would need to be taken as the young man was in a vulnerable condition.
After arriving on scene and finding him holding to the side of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat the crew assisted him into the inshore lifeboat before transporting him ashore to a waiting ambulance team.
Arran RNLI trainee helm Dave Nicholson said:’Any time the pager sounds we know we need to respond as quickly as possible, when we find out we’re responding to a person in the water it makes things even more urgent. We’re all thrilled that we managed to get on scene quickly and help the young man out and wish him all the best for a swift recovery.’
Three determined young women were celebrating recently after taking the top spots in the annual engineering competition held in Lamlash church hall, writes Rory Cowan.
And for the third year in a row, Daisy McNamara, 12, took first prize.
This year’s event was well attended – despite it being held on the same day as the royal wedding – with judges and supporters having an enjoyable time watching the efforts of the 10 entries – individuals and teams – as they demonstrated their solutions to the task.
Competitors had to fire/project four table tennis balls from the floor into a dustbin a metre off the ground. A range of techniques were employed, with a long lever solution being the most popular.
Competitors were permitted a few ‘sighters’ and then they were off – with eight minutes to get four balls into the bin.
It’s a daunting prospect at a young age to undertake the task on your own, and with only eight minutes to do it in, that takes some determination. So very many congratulations to all who persevered – and everyone did.
A good crowd watched with bated breath as the competition progressed, with loud cheers greeting each successful shot.
The judges saw some innovative solutions and clearly the competitors understood the principles, judging by how their entries were made and how they worked. Marks were awarded for the quality of demonstration and presentation of each idea.
So thanks to all who took part, to those who helped and to all parents, relatives and friends who turned up to support the children.
Winner Daisy McNamara designed her own solution – carefully guarded from industrial spying – which she built and operated herself. She got four balls into the dustbin in 20 seconds. Second was Rosie McNamara with four balls in 26 seconds. Third was Olivia McNeice with four balls in 51 seconds.
Scotland is renowned for producing good engineers. Today more than ever we are dependent upon engineers for everyday living – from pencils and wall paint to central heating and telephones. It is not all about the large-scale, sexy projects such as bridges and space ports.
In fact, it would be impossible to get up each morning, dress, eat breakfast and go to work without the influence of engineers. After all who makes the bed, the bedclothes, the clothes you wear, your transport, the road surfacing materials – even if they are seldom applied? Who makes the buildings you live and work in? And so it goes on. We simply cannot exist today without the help of engineers.
For those reasons this competition is important, because it encourages us all to think about the importance of engineering and to possibly consider a career in it.
Engineering competition winner Daisy McNamara (centre) with runners-up Rosie McNamara and Olivia McNeice. NO_B22engine01
Some of the contestants who took part in the engineering competition. NO_B22engine02
Six weeks ago the lighthouse keepers in Scotland were replaced by automation. All the lights in Scotland are now controlled by computer and thus lighthouse keeper is now a job that has totally disappeared.
The four men who manned the Pladda lighthouse are among those who have gone and we are sad to see them go. They had a camaraderie; they found ways to usefully pass the time, they were able to entertain themselves and, on that little island, they had made a golf course. Now, nowhere in Scotland will there be makeshift golf courses, no vegetable plots or flower gardens and above all, no human to make sure that there is light for those on the high seas.
You can still visit lighthouses, thought not ones on Pladda or Holy Isle, and they are wonderful to see, even if the soul has gone out of them and tourists wander about looking at what people used to do, but which is now automated.
Original bakery
Since the bakery at Blackwaterfoot reopened in the early 1970s it has been one of the best kept secrets on Arran. Down the access lane beside Kinloch Hotel, the entrance was tucked behind the road side cottage. But now there will be no trouble in finding your way to the Kinloch Bakery for they have just reopened the original shop half way up the Bakery Brae.
In the late 60s the bank in Blackwaterfoot closed and the Kinloch Hotel bought the building. Then, in an agreement with grocer Alan Bannatyne, they swapped, and the Post Office and grocery shop moved up the hill. Most of the old bakery building was converted to living accommodation but the bakery itself was spruced up and reopened with Bert Livingston in charge. There have been many bakers over the years, Neil Hamilton, Graeme Kerr and the present Phil Judge, who took over in 1976, and is still going strong to this day.
Housing proposal
The new proposal for a housing development at Kildonan comes before planning next week with a recommendation for approval with conditions. This is despite 24 representations, most objecting to the proposal. A previous application for 13 houses was refused last November but the present application is for six buildings including four houses. Another application recommended for approval is a micro brewery at Cladach.
In the old days you would see milk churns at all road ends round the southend. Now it is the other way round with cartons of milk being left, not for collection, but for delivery to households. The tradition lives on in a manner, as can be seen by Janet Mulholland and Morag Reid of Torrylin who still collect their milk from an old box at the roadside. 01_B22twe01
The future of the Lochranza tennis courts and the village hall which requires structural repairs will be the subject of discussion at next week’s public meeting. Pictured are the tennis courts when they opened in 1988. 01_B22twe02
Marion and Wren Gentleman with the new owner of the Glenartney Hotel in Brodick. Maria Palmer has taken over from who couple who are retiring after 13 years in the hotel industry. 01_B22twe03
Swedish administrators from north of Upsalla were on Arran as guests of North Ayrshire Council learning about education, social work and health care. Here they are seem with their hosts including council convener George Steven. 01_B22twe04
Pictured at the pool finals night are Sammy McGeachy, singles champions, Davie Symington and Fred Wood, doubles runners up; Dougie Macfarlane, doubles champion; Bobby Sloss, singles runner up; and Arthur Duncan, doubles champion. 01_B22twe05
Members of the Arran community have shown their support for the island’s maternity unit with the donation of new equipment
Presenting midwife Elaine Kelso with the equipment at Arran War Memorial Hospital were three mums, who have used the unit, and Jim Arnold and Sandra Hall from the Isle of Arran Hospital Supporters League.
TJ Lambie, Kirsty Park and Kitty Pointer-Dalton donated a comfortable chair for new dads to make use of when meeting their newborn for the first time. The chair and footstool idea came about after TJ’s husband commented on meeting his child for the first time on a standard NHS chair. Believing that she could make the experience more comfortable for new dads, TJ said: ‘ After giving birth my husband got to cradle our newborn, and while it was a magical moment, it could of been a more comfortable experience. Hopefully this new chair will add to the first time bonding experience for Arran fathers.
‘The maternity unit, and midwife Elaine Kelso, are highly valued and regarded on Arran and we just wanted to show our appreciation and support with this small gift. We are still fundraising on behalf of the unit and have further plans for the future.’
Equally generous in his praise for the midwifery service on Arran, Jim Arnold who presented a state of the art breast pump on behalf of the league said: ‘ The league is very appreciative of the support and generous donations from the people, family and friends of the island and those from further afield.’
The supporters league supplements but does not replace NHS funding and the donations are used to provide additional comfort for the patients and staff at the Arran War Memorial Hospital and members of the community.’
So far this financial year the league has been able to assist with donations of a bladder scanner, an ECG, recliner chairs, safety equipment and various other supplementals totalling almost £18,000 towards medical improvements on Arran.
Midwife Elaine Kelso, who recently won a prestigious Scottish Midwife Award for her work on Arran, thanked everyone for their generous donations and support saying: ‘A huge thank you to all who have helped make these donations possible. The equipment will be put to good use and will be appreciated by mums and dads making use of the maternity unit on Arran.’
Community fundraisers join midwife Elaine Kelso to donate a comfortable chair and breastfeeding equipment to the Arran maternity unit. 01_B21maternity01
Ever wanted to see what really goes on behind the gates of a real working farm?
Well now is your chance as Bellevue Farm near Blackwaterfoot will giving the public an insight into farm life next weekend. The move is part of a nationwide initiative known as Open Farm Sunday which is managed by Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF).
On Sunday June 10, Donald and Ailsa Currie and their two sons, Donald and Andrew, will welcome visitors from 10am to 12noon and 2pm to 4pm at Bellevue Farm.
It is the first Open Farm Sunday event to be held on Arran and will provide visitors, young and old, with an opportunity to discover at first hand what it means to be a farmer and what is involved in producing food and managing the countryside.
Visitors will be able to see ewes and lambs, cows and calves, pigs, hens and chickens and there will be a short tractor and trailer ride through the fields. There will also be a small vintage tractor display and a show of all the farm tractors and machinery.
Entry to the event is free of charge but donations will be collected for Breast Cancer Support and ARCAS.
Anyone requiring further information should contact the farm by email at belleveufarmcottages@btinternet.com, via text on 07740 986803 or via the facebook page.
Arran artist Josephine Broekhuizen has decided to expand and diversify her artistic talents to provide a new curtain-making service for the island.
She has just successfully completed a curtain-making course at the National Design Academy in Nottingham and plans to offer a full range of drapery services, from standard curtains to the grander-sounding swags and tails. Tie-backs and pelmets, Roman blinds and alterations are all part of this successful painter’s newest palette.
Fabric and material is nothing new to Dutch-born Josephine. Growing up in Holland, her father ran a very successful sleeping-bag and down manufacturing business. Bolts of material were part of her family background. Consequently, familiarity with fabric, threads and sewing machines were an integral part of her upbringing. This familiarity is also evidenced in many of her still-life paintings where her rendering of fabrics is masterful. She is currently represented in Scotland by Glasgow’s Compass Gallery.
The new initiative came about in friendly collaboration with Janelle of Lamlash who traditionally made and continues to make curtains. Janelle still has fabric sample books from which materials for Josephine’s curtains can be chosen. And Josephine is happy to take orders through Janelle’s or any other shops on Arran.
Launching as Josephine’s Curtains she hopes that her new service will add another bespoke facility to Arran’s growing business community. Phone 01770 600287 or 07774 003554 for advice and friendly guidance.
