A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

IN THIS ISSUE
TRANQUILITY
CHRISTMAS GIFTS
Tranquility has O.P.I. Nail Polishes and beautiful Germain de Capuccini products for sale at reduced prices. If you are looking for ideas for Christmas presents - look no further, ring me Pauline on 01583 431755.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS
SADDELL & CARRADALE GUILD Christmas Fayre on Saturday 26th November at 2.30pm in Carradale Village Hall. Baking, Christmas Gift Tombola, Bottle & Produce Stalls, Guessing Games & Xmas hamper. Admission including seasonal refreshments, Adults 3. Children 1. CHRISTMAS QUIZ Friday 30th December at 7pm in Carradale Village Hall. QUIZZLE Quizzles will be available from Village Hall Committee Members and Post Offices towards the end of November. VILLAGE SURVEY RESULTS There will be a workshop to present the results to the public and discuss action points on Saturday the 14th of January at 2pm in the Carradale Hotel. PRIMARY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS EVENTS Tuesday 13th December - Christmas Concert 7pm Thursday 15th December - School & Community Christmas Lunch 12pm. 5 per person, phone 431 244 to book. Saturday 17th December - Christmas Craft Fayre. 7.50 per table, please phone 431 244 to book. Tuesday 20th December - School Christmas Party. Wednesday 21st December - School closes 2:30pm.

P2 Martin Lowe, Remembrance Sunday. P3 Carradale and the Nobel Laureate. P4 Carradale Primary School. P5 Abbeyfield, Tidal energy. P6 The Gigha ferry, No 70 & planning. P7 ABC spending School, Guild, Cinema. P8 Fuel, Rain and P.O. payments. P9 Fuelling the East Kintyre economy. P10 Carradale Visitor Survey. P11 Pipe Dreams; an early selection. P12 Village survey results in full. P13 Those were the days - housing. P14 Glasgow Shine, P15 Valiant Hearts Walk, EKCC issues. P16 EKCC min, Wind-farm applications.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT

Carradale Hotel
Saturday 17th December
Its Christmas party time! Were making a party out of a drama.

Time: 6.30 for 7.00 pm, singing, dancing & theatre!

THEATRE Madcow will perform one of Alan Bennetts talking heads - Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet - chiropody has the ability to create comic situations, but is there more going on, why are discrete little envelopes left and what might be in them? GLASGOW TRIO LONGPLAY will have us dancing the night away - for as long as we are allowed Last seen at the music festival in Campbeltown, this trio will bring you songs from the 40s to the present day some youll know and some youll not. Joe, Gaye and Stan have been around for a while (some longer that others) in various guises since the sixties. All three are on vocals, Gaye on occasional percussion & kazoo, Stan on guitar, mandolin, keyboard, harmonica & ukulele and Joe on guitar. This fabulous night with Something for everyone will be interspersed with a sumptuous seasonal buffet and silly seasonal singing and can be yours for only 25.00! Its going to be busy folks!

SEASONAL THANKS
Particularly to Sheena, Mary, Margaret, Rachel, Neenie, Matthew, Shelagh, Jean, Mary, Morna, Jean, Robert, Michael, Moira, Jim, Celia, Dave, Wendy, Helen, David, John, Mary, Gail, Mike, Johnny, Lynn, Eilidh, David and everyone who helps keep the Antler going including those who donate, subscribe, advertise or continue to send in articles, reports and announcements; without your support the Editor would have had to find something more controversial to fill the endless hours of rain and brief spells of tepid sunshine in 2011. Ed.

So to guarantee your ticket - Phone: 01583 431223

E-mail: noriffraff@carradalehotel.com

CHRISTMAS SERVICES
Sunday 18th December, 12 noon Nativity and Nine Lessons & Carols with children of the School taking part. Saturday 24th December, 11.30 pm Watch-night Service. Sunday 25th December, 12 noon Informal Family Service.

CARRADALE GOLF CLUB

THE SECRETARY IS MARGARET RICHARDSON, 2 OLD SCHOOLHOUSE CARRADALE PA28 6QJ. 01583 431788 FURTHER INFORMATION IS ON PAGE 11

TORRISDALE CASTLE
ORGANIC TANNERY & CRAFTY SHEEP SHOP - TEL: 01583 431233
CHRISTMAS GIFTS - CHRISTMAS GIFTS - CHRISTMAS GIFTS - CHRISTMAS GIFTS
Sweaters, cardigans, belts, handbags, slippers, mugs, soft toys and so much more. A sheepskin rug is a touch of luxury at any time of the year

Jewellery Makers and Shop

WallisHunter Jewellery, International Jewellery Scottish Designer Jewellery, Pewterware Proper Pottery, Tiles, Cards, Baby Presents & other Gifty Things! It just gets better
Web: www.wallishunter-jewellery.com Carradale, By Campbeltown. Argyll

Tel/Fax 01583 431 683

mmmmmmmmdelicious
We make the best Scottish tablet you have ever tasted

Looking for the perfect gift idea? Then look no further than our selection. Our Hampers, full of delicious Kintyre produce and our Scottish Tablet Gift Boxes make excellent presents. We have gifts to suit all budgets. Our tablet is available in local shops. You can also order all our products on-line. Just visit our web-site ; www.scottishtabletcompany.co.uk or telephone Anne on 01583 431581

MARTIN LOWE
From the moment his parents-in-law bought High Moineruadh in 1976, Martin loved coming to Carradale with Janet and their family. Over the next thirty-five years they spent almost all their holidays here, enjoying all that the village and Kintyre has to offer. When their four children were little, days were spent on the beach, exploring the forest and scampering round Sallys Walk. At Easter the magical Great Auk laid little chocolate eggs in cleverly made nests hidden around the garden. The spell was only broken when the eldest spied his Father through the back window with a large bag over his shoulder. Then, after joining the golf club, Martin would get up early and take his sons round the course before the serious golfers teed off. Andrew remembers how this started his life-long love of golf and of warm rolls bought from the back door of Patersons Bakery. Martin, who had a great love of the hills and an understanding of the landscape from his training in geology, soon had the family up on all the ridges overlooking Carradale and then up Beinn-an-Tuirc and through the glen from Rhonadale over to Glenbarr on the Atlantic side. More ambitious expeditions were made to Arran, one memorable one in the special company of Mary McMillan who brought crab claws for the summit picnic after we scrambled over the Witchs Step and The Castles. Mary remembers that Martin showed us a cairngorm in a rock. Martin grew up in Dunfermline and then went on to St. Andrews University where he completed his PhD, The Trias of the Western Highlands and Hebrides. On joining the British Council, he and Janet were posted first to Tanzania and then to India. It was in Dar es Salaam that they met Pearl and Iain Macadam, enjoyed Burns Suppers in the tropical heat with them and climbed Kilimanjaro together. On the summit Martin played his pipes to bring in the New Year 1968 (and then wondered all the way down why his lungs were sore!). He returned home to join the administration of the University of Strathclyde and then in 1981 became Secretary and Registrar of the University of St. Andrews. The family enjoyed being in St. Andrews where they could play even more golf. In 1990 he was appointed Secretary to the University of Edinburgh. He relished the scale and international aspect of this post and continued to travel widely, working with universities in many countries. He was awarded an OBE for his services to higher education. When he retired twelve years later, Martin was able to immerse himself in piping, both playing and organising. He took up the bellows pipes, learning to play both the small pipes and the border pipes and was about to publish a collection of Scandinavian music for bellows pipes. For many years he was Secretary of the Royal Scottish Pipers Society with whom he enjoyed playing at Holyrood garden parties where he met Carradale friends like Wum and Una Semple. He was Chairman of the Lowland and Border Pipers Society, a trustee of the East Lothian Pipes and Drums Trust and a member of the Army Piping Committee. He much enjoyed being a member of the Board of the National Piping Centre in Glasgow where, because of his university experience, he helped establish the degree in piping with the RSAMD. He was very proud of Lorne McDougall, whom we remember coming up to play at High Moineruadh while still a schoolboy and who went on to become one of the first to graduate with an Honours BA in Scottish Music-Piping on this course. Martin always enjoyed meeting up with Lorne and following his success as a performer, composer and a finalist in the BBC Scottish Young Traditional Musician of the Year. Perhaps most of all he loved playing the pipes. He would entertain at the drop of a hat. We remember him playing at Hogmanay parties at High Moineruadh, then round the cottage as the New Year came in, at Keith and Chris Campbells New Year parties, on the bow of the Mairi Bhan with the sound carrying over the sea, at Torrisdale Castle, at the golf club when the new centenary flag was raised, and especially at Pearl Macadams funeral barely two years ago. Martin died after a short illness on 9 October. He is survived by his wife, Janet, their children, Andrew, Shona, Robert and Donald and their eight young grandchildren who now love High Moineruadh and Carradale as much as he did. Janet Lowe.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Looking good after its recent facelift, a large crowd gathered on sunny morning at the War Memorial for the Sunday Remembrance Day Service conducted by Tony Leighton. It was nice to see the young, middle aged and the elderly joining together to pay their respects to the ones who gave their lives for our freedom in the last wars or in the present ongoing conflicts; it is also a time to remember our friends and family. Joining the service on Sunday 13th of December were Firefighters from Campbeltown with the young Firefighters, our local Firefighters, Coastguard, representatives from the fishing industry, the armed forces, a local member of the War Research Society and the others whom I may not have mentioned. After the Church service there was a open invitation to the Carradale Fire Station for soup and sandwiches which was prepared and served by Cheryl, Jennifer and Ceri. Thanks to them for an excellent spread. Report & photographs courtesy of J.D.

WEE PICTURES
Sat 19 Nov 2011 for 6 days at 8.00pm JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN (PG)

LIKE XMAS SNOW -

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ELECTRICIAN
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T: 01586 554975 F: 01586 554903 E: staff@krispprint.co.uk www.krispprint.co.uk

THE ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND

P.O.BOX 13, 11 CASTLEHILL, CAMPBELTOWN ARGYLL PA28.6AP

Where people matter

CARRADALE BRANCH OPEN THURSDAY 10am - 11am

CARRADALE AND THE NOBEL LAUREATE.
A few years ago I happened to meet an old friend, the late Professor Herbert Wilson, former Professor of Physics at the University of Stirling. Herbert was a very kind and gentle and very Welsh scientist whose proudest achievement was not scientific, but his appointment to the Gorsedd of Bards at the National Eisteddfod of his native Wales. After asking after the health of my sheep at Ardnacross, which are Welsh sheep from the Lleyn Peninsula where he was borne, he told me with some enthusiasm of a recent visit he and his wife had made to the famous Woods Hole Laboratory in USA for the Celebration of the Double Helix discovery. I had of course heard of the famous discovery of the structure of DNA but had no idea that Herbert, a man of great modesty, had anything to do with what Sir Peter Medawar has described as simply the greatest scientific discovery of the 20th Century. Herbert was part of that iconic piece of science however, and had been one of the guests of honour, along with Crick, Watson and Wilkins, who had obtained Nobel Prizes for their work. When I asked him how it had all come about, with his usual modesty, rather than explain his important role, (he was a key research fellow on the project) he suggested I should read Jim Watsons book entitled The Double Helix. I recently decided to do as Herbert had suggested. The results of Crick and Watsons famous paper in Nature on the helical structure of the DNA molecule are seen all around us in new diagnostic techniques and vaccines, new forensic tests such as genetic fingerprinting, advanced treatments for cancer, stem-cell therapy, GM foods, genetic screening for diseases and even Dolly the Sheep. The Double Helix by James D Watson is not, however, a scientific text but rather a blow by blow account of the real story, at least from Watsons perspective of how high powered and highly competitive scientists competed to crack the biggest mystery of their times I enjoyed the read. It was racy and stimulating and not like any other scientific book I had read, but to my great surprise, the first thing I noticed in this famous book was its Dedication which read.. For Naomi Mitchison. It is a fascinating story of intrigue and sometimes less than fair play in the great race between Crick and Watson in Cambridge and the crystallographers in Kings College London, to get the structure worked out that would explain the whole mechanism of heredity. Watson the brash young American had almost as healthy an interest in the University social life and particularly the DNA of young ladies of his acquaintance as he had in the structure of his molecule. He also had a signal lack of decency towards the tragic heroine of the book, Dr Rosemary Franklin, whose data he purloined and whom he subsequently learned to greatly respect, when it was too late and she had tragically died of cancer. But where do Naomi and Carradale come into the picture? Well he devotes a whole chapter to his Carradale visit at the end of 1951. Naomis son Avrion was a scientist at Magdalene College Cambridge and took to the brash young American. Seeing that he was at a loose end over the Christmas period, he invited him to come and stay with his family at Carradale. Carradale House obviously impressed Watson in a number of ways. The thing that excited him most was that the Mitchisons were known to fill their house with what he refers to as odd assortments of lively minds. Equally he was unaware that it was to be a very cold winter, Carradale would be snowbound and the best way not to feel impossibly cold was to stay in bed as long as was possible and then to go walking unless the rain was coming down in buckets. In the afternoons his host Dick Mitchison was always trying to encourage people to go out and shoot pigeons, but after one attempt when he only succeeded in finally pulling the trigger when the pigeons were well out of view, he took to lying on the drawing room floor as close to the fire as possible until it was his turn to play ping-pong in the library under a stern drawing of a young Naomi and her children, by Wyndham Lewis. As a casual American from the mid- west, with a Ph.D. from Indiana, it took him a week to realize that while the Mitchisons were relatively easy going, they did expect guests to dress for dinner. He had also decided to grow a beard not least because it was not pleasant to shave with cold water which was all he had available. Eventually the barbed comments of his fellow guests led him to realize that a shave and maybe a jacket for dinner might be appreciated. Naomi ever the diplomat immediately commented on his new smart looks and he realized he had made the right decision. He retails his difficulty with the intellectual word games which seemed to occupy the evenings of his fellow guests. He lived in great fear of the derision of the formidably bright Mitchison daughters. The only way out was to devise an avoidance strategy. This was to avoid his turn by sitting next to the large boxes of chocolates that were introduced each evening and hoping no-one noticed that he did not pass them round till his turn was approaching. Nevertheless, though he found some of the aspects of his Carradale sojourn rather daunting for a boy from the boondocks, he claimed that he knew right from the start that the kindness and hospitality, and, when the sun shone, the beauty of it , meant that he would depart from Naomi and Dicks spectrum of the left with the greatest reluctance, the prospect of the bounteous lunches with alcoholic English cider more than compensating for the habit of leaving the outside doors open to the westerly wind. He had been hoping that a heavy fall of snow which gave the surrounding hills the look of Antarctic mountains would delay his scheduled departure and after Hogmanay he had enjoyed a long walk along the Campbelltown (sic) road with Av Mitchison, talking to him at length about his work on tissue transplants while Watson thought about how likely it might be that the road would remain closed and he could stay longer. He finally left on the fourth of January, with others of the party from the house. They went from the village in the Carradale to Tarbert bus to the steamer at East Loch Tarbert and on to London, Cambridge and the greatest scientific achievement of the Century.. Watson never mentions Carradale again in his book, which proceeds to the real mission of his life how they beat the Kings College team to the Genetic Code. Even more importantly, how they also beat the great double Nobel Laureate, Linus Pauling to the answer, despite, in the incestuous world that was top science of that time, having Peter Pauling, Linuss son working in London alongside them. But one of his rivals, who writes under the initials F X S in a commentary on Watson and his unusual personality at the end of the Critical Edition of the book, claims that in the history of their work the Carradale Christmas was decisive. It was decisive because the tensed darting pursuit of DNA had reached one of those bleak dead-ends which, often, in major science, precedes a break-through. To spend it in Kintyre at Carradale, home of the Mitchisons was just the therapy needed to break the deadlock. Ronald J. Roberts. Reference. The Double Helix. A Personal Account of the Discovery of the Structure of DNA. By James D. Watson. Critical Edition Edited by Gunther S Stent. W.W.Norton & Co New York. 298pp. (1980) .

KENNEDYS SHOE SHOP

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K CLARKS needs under one roof. LOTUS ROHDE All your footwear
Ladies & Gents wide fitting specialists.

50-52 LONGROW CAMPBELTOWN Childrens fitting service. Walking shoes, Dress shoes. Walking boots, Dress boots. Tel 01586 552644

ASHBANK HOTEL, CARRADALE

Tracy and Fiona are very pleased to announce that Nonnie has now joined the team of staff at the Ashbank Hotel. Bar open from 12pm-2pm & 4pm to late. Quiz every Thursday @ 8.30pm prompt - limited space so get there early!
New Lunch & A'la carte menu every 2 months - Eat in our new contemporary restaurant or cosy lounge. Daily specials - Sunday Lunches Monthly theme nights - Indian, Italian, Chinese & Tapas. Take away menu plus all items from the main menu, just order before 1 pm Free-wi-fi & parking, Events parties & Outside Catering available to suit your needs. E-mail: ashbankhotel@tiscali.co.uk Internet:www.ashbankhotel.com

For further details please call 01583 431 650 OPEN TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 12 - 2pm. Evening meals: 6pm - 8pm Booking advisable

A SCHOOL LOG
EMPTY SCHOOL CLOSURES Argyll and Bute Council has agreed to formalise the closure of two primary schools, both of which have had no pupils for some time. The decision was taken following comprehensive consultation on both proposals with the local communities involved, as well as all other interested parties. St Kierans Primary in Campbeltown, which has had no pupils since June 2010, will close with effect from December 22 2011. Education provision at Ardchonnel Primary on the south side of Loch Awe, which has had no pupils since the 2006/07 school session, will also stop on the same day. Argyll and Butes spokesperson for education and lifelong learning, Councillor Ellen Morton, said that the council had a duty to ensure that its resources are managed as effectively as possible. In order to do this we have to be ready to adapt to changing circumstances, including changes in pupil rolls and the demographics of particular areas. Both St Kierans and Ardchonnel have had no pupils for some time, so the council has taken the common sense decision to close them and concentrate our resources on the schools across Argyll and Bute which are occupied and which deliver top class education throughout the area. The council noted that the catchment area of St Kierans Primary overlaps catchment areas for non- denominational primaries in the town which are unaffected by the closure.

M.B.E. & M.S.P.

Logs For Sale

Bulk loads, bags & kindlers, cut, split & ready for the fire
Contact Rob Jones on: 01586 830133 after 6pm mobile: 07507327410 7am - 6pm e-mail: robamod@hotmail.co.uk

M.B.E. & M.S.P.

It is not often that a humble retired long-serving nurse from Kintyre is pictured with the Deputy First Leader of the Scottish Government and the Chief Executive of the Nursing and Midwifery Council, at the opening of a new HMC headquarters in Edinburgh, but with Eva MacDonald MBE everything is possible.

The Katie Morag Characters

CARRADALE PRIMARY
CHILDREN IN NEED On Monday 14th November, Carradale Primary School held a 'Pudsey & Ted's Morning Tea'. There was a great turnout from the local community, with the Pudsey Baking and Lucky Dip being extremely popular. PRIZE WINNERS: Sweets in the Jar (262 sweets) - Janetta King Lucky Square (Square E6) - Monica Gemmill Pin the Nose on Pudsey Elliot Gemmill To link with the P1-4 topic, Katie Morag, some pupils dressed as a character from Katie Morag. There were lots of very good costumes, with Zoe Gosling winning the prize for her costume as Granma Mainland. To finish the morning off, the pupils enjoyed a teddy bear's picnic for lunch. The total raised so far is 160.50 for Children In Need. Miss Lynn Galbraith.

The Teddy Bears Picnic

JOHNNY DURNAN
GIVE ME A CALL ON 431365
CARRADALES ODD JOB MAN
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Servicing Motor & Commercial vehicles, Repairing & Servicing Garden machinery & Outboards

Garden maintenance, Grass cutting Hedge trimming & Fencing, Paths and drives pressure washed.
Small building work undertaken.

Quality catering to arouse your senses. We cater for parties large and small, at your home, at your business or other location of your choice we promise you stress free entertaining.Book your Christmas or New Year with us today you wont be disappointed.Visit our website: eventwww.kilbrannancatering.co.uk

Telephone Anne on 015431581 or Jennifer on 01583 431632

ABBEYFIELD HOUSE: DEDICATED CARE WITHIN THE COMMUNITY

Following Stuart Irvines explanation of the developments in the Abbeyfield organisation last month, here is: -

A BRIEF ABBEYFIELD HISTORY

Visitors to Kintyre with a knowledge of care facilities in Scotlands main towns and cities are often surprised to learn that an Abbeyfield flourishes in Carradale. Nationally the term Abbeyfield is synonymous with care in the community, specifically for those in the autumn of their lives who welcome the opportunity to live with others where their essential needs are catered for by a full-time house keeper and a group of dedicated volunteers. Encouraged by a visitor to the village from southern Scotland in the early 1980s, who had been involved in the Abbeyfield phenomena, several interested local residents including Mary McMillan, Evelyn Stewart, Dr Duncan, Hamish Ogilvie, Katherine Martin and others decided to arrange a meeting and invited members of a number of local organisation and county services to attend and support the initiative. After obtaining a government funding package the Carradale Abbeyfield opened in 1985 with Marie Anne Smith as the full-time house-keeper. Under the Chairmanship of Donald Macalister Hall, the Secretary J. Stuart Irvine, and two voluntary committees, the House continues to provide full time accommodation for up to seven residents, with a respite room for short term use and additional help for others who need occasional day care. In recognition of dedicated service there was a special party in 2010 to celebrate Jeanette McKinnons fifteenth year as Housekeeper and Fiona McDiarmids tenth year as Deputy Housekeeper. Never happy with the status quo, improvements to the facilities and extension to its services are constantly being considered and Stuart Irvine has also extended his remit and is involved in a voluntary capacity with Abbeyfield Societies throughout Scotland. Historically - The Abbeyfield Society began in 1956 when a then young Coldstream Guard by the name of Richard Carr-Gomm became concerned by the number of lonely older people he saw in Bermondsey in south-east London. Richard immediately resigned his army commission and moved from Chelsea Barracks and became Britain's first male home-help. During his visits as a home-help, Richard found that loneliness was one of the biggest challenges facing older people. This inspired Richard to spend his army gratuity on a house on Eugenia

Road, in Bermondsey, and invited four lonely older people to join him. By Christmas 1956, Richard had become the very first Abbeyfield housekeeper. Like-minded people quickly joined Richard, including one woman who was to become the future Mrs Carr-Gomm. They regularly met at the second house in Abbeyfield Road, which lent its name to the Society. In the space of two years, Abbeyfield opened six houses in Bermondsey, housing 26 older people. By the end of 1960, new Abbeyfield societies had been formed in eight London boroughs and 15 localities outside of London. The parent society was incorporated as The Abbeyfield Society, which, to this day, forms the nucleus of the whole movement. Historical information extracted from Abbeyfield Internet pages.

TIDAL ENERGY
NEW SITES OFF KINTYRE AND ISLAY Argyll and Bute Council welcomed the announcement by the Crown Estate that three new sites in Kintyre and Islay are being taken forward for consideration by tidal energy developers. The three sites which are being considered are West Islay, Mull of Kintyre and Sanda Sound. This is exciting news and it reflects the significant natural marine resource that we have in Argyll. Although it is still early days in the development of these tidal projects there is no doubt that this is an exciting time in the development of the renewable tidal sector. In March this year the Scottish Government approved the Scottish Power Renewable development of the worlds largest tidal power array in the Sound of Islay. This weeks announcement is further proof that Argyll offers further opportunities for development of the marine renewable sector in Scotland. Argyll and Bute has a key role to play in helping the Scottish Government meet its renewable target. Welcoming the announcement Argyll and Bute Council Leader Dick Walsh said, As a council we recognise the opportunities that can come from sustainably harnessing our natural renewable resource. We want to secure social and economic opportunities for the people who live in Argyll and Bute and recognise the importance of working with partners through the Argyll and Bute Renewable Alliance to optimise these opportunities and to secure benefit to our local communities.

TOM GRANT
PARTNERSHIP
A R C H I T E C T S

41 Longrow, Campbeltown Argyll PA28 6ER

Tel: 01586 554727 Fax: 01586 551727 24 Argyll St. Lochgilphead Tom Grant Dip., Arch., R.I.B.A., R.I.A.S Argyll PA31 8NE Mobile 07770 538 661 Tel: 01546 603050
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TORRISDALE CASTLE
Superb self-catering accommodation in Castle or Cottage in absolutely fabulous surroundings Ideal for a relaxed holiday. Bird watchers paradise. Colour brochure from: Carradale Campbeltown Argyll PA28 6QT

TELEPHONE OR FAX 01583 431233

GIGHA FERRY
TAYINLOAN PIER CONTRACT AWARDED A multi-million pound project to improve the ferry facilities at Tayinloan will start over the next few weeks following a successful tendering exercise. The 2.3m programme of works will be carried out by Graham Construction of Hillsborough, County Down, Northern Ireland the same firm which recently carried out work at Kennacraig ferry terminal. Grahams submitted the most competitive bid and was the clear winner of the tender process. Work will start later this month and, weather conditions permitting, will be completed by May next year in time for the peak summer tourist season. Argyll and Butes spokesperson for rural and island affairs, housing and Gaelic, Councillor Robin Currie, said: The news would be welcomed by all those who use the ferry service to and from the island of Gigha, which is occasionally disrupted because of problems at the terminal. The aim of this project is to improve the reliability of the ferry service to the Gigha community and also to ensure its long term sustainability. The scope of works to improve the operation of the Tayinloan slipway has required careful consideration to ensure that the project aims can be delivered within the available budget. The works programme is mainly coastal in nature and will be carried out largely from the shore, which has required agreement from local interests. I am very pleased that the contract has now been awarded and I look forward to the works being successfully completed next year. There is a long history of issues at the existing ferry berth, the basic configuration of which make it prone to accumulating silt and seaweed. This occasionally prevents the berthing of the Gigha ferry, particularly in the winter months, and has led to expensive and disruptive dredging works. The aim of the work about to start is to secure as reliable a ferry service as possible and to negate the need for future dredging around the pier. The five key elements of the agreed work are: Sand bypass moving between 70,000 and 80,000 tonnes of sand from the beach south of the pier to an area to the north. This will relocate much of the sand which has gathered over the years against the breakwater and which is being carried around the end of the structure to be deposited at the bottom of the slipway. The recharging of the beach to the north will infill the area around the existing old pier. Causeway an open section or bridge is being formed in the causeway leading to the pier and slipway to allow water and sediment to

pass through the terminal and on up the coast rather than gathering against the breakwater. Slipway the existing slipway is being repaired and widened to accept wider vessels and in particular the proposed new hybrid ferries which are being introduced by Calmac on selected west coast routes. Existing pier essential repairs to the timber structure are to be carried out. Old pier the old pier to the north of the terminal is to be removed so as to allow the movement of sand and sediment up the coastline in a northerly direction. The pier will present a barrier to this natural phenomenon when the open or bridge section in the causeway is formed. The work will result in occasional disruption to ferry users. Three weekend closures of the ferry service between now and Christmas are proposed in order to allow piling works to safely take place. The dates of these closures will be announced as soon as possible. In addition, ferry operator Calmac has made an alternative, smaller ferry available for use on the route which would allow slipway works to progress while the service is maintained. Any disruption both to the travelling public and to local landowners and residents will be minimised as much as possible by Graham Construction. There is bound to be some inconvenience for the communities of both Tayinloan and Gigha, but these will be kept to an absolute minimum, Councillor Currie said. The reward at the end of the work will be the smoother operation of what is a lifeline ferry service for the people of Gigha, and a slipway which is able to accommodate wider vessels in future if required.

NUMBER SEVENTY
THE KINTYRE ANTIQUARIAN AND NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY MAGAZINE The most recent issue of this well-known magazine contains a wealth of articles about Kintyre, its citizens and the natural history of the area. The cover of the magazine shows a City Theatre poster by William Gilchrist who was born at Amod but left Kintyre to become a highly successful printer and publisher in Glasgow. Another connection with the parish of Killean concerns an account of the incumbency of the seventeenth century Reverend John Cunison, extracted from the Annals of the Church and Parish of Killean by a much later minister, the Reverend John Macdonald in the 1890s. The arrival of two suffragettes in Kintyre in 1908 and the subsequent report in the Campbeltown Courier gives the Kintyre magazine Editor, Angus Martin, a chance to comment on the history of one of the visitors, Chrystal Macmillan, and to record the involvement in the suffragette movement of Flora Drummond, the suffragette General who died in Carradale in 1949. Angus mentions the erection of a memorial stone in Brackley cemetery by Antler readers but does not credit Hamish Mackinven and Duncan Ritchie with the promotion of the initiative. An account of a visit to the island of Sanda in 1925 by (Professor) W. J. McCallien is included and together with further articles on a Walk to Allt Beithe, Highland Mary Plaque and a further episode of By Hill and Shore by Angus Martin completes the Editors worthy contribution. There are also book reviews by Moira Burgess and Jean C. Macleod and a Butterfly Report by Agnes Stewart. G.P.

PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Reference: 11/01943/PP Proposal: Erection of extension to dwelling-house and relocation of new access. Location: Grianan Cottage, Lochpark, Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll & Bute, PA28 6SG Applicant: Miss Sandra Galbraith Grianan Cottage, Lochpark, Carradale East, Campbeltown, PA28 6SG Agent: Equillo Shurig, Peninver, Campbeltown, PA28 6QP Development Type: 01 - Householder Dev-elopment Grid Ref: 181722 - 638503 Reference: 11/01892/PP Proposal: Erection of dwellinghouse with integral domestic garage and installation of septic tank. Location: Land 110M To North East Of Melfort Lodge, Airds, Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll & Bute Applicant: Mr Bobby Ferguson, 9 Polsons Crescent, Paisley, PA2 6AU Agent: Tom Grant, 41 Longrow, Campbeltown, PA28 6ER Development Type: 03B - Housing - Local Grid Ref: 181548 - 638816.

A YULE-TIDE WARNING
A card comes through your door from PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) notifying you of a parcel and asking you to phone 0906 6611911 (a premium rate number) for further information.

DON'T!!!.
If you dial this number and the recorded message starts you will already have been billed for 315. The Post Office and the Trading Standards Office ask you to contact the police if you do receive one of these cards.

Mobile 07799395709

Carpet, Upholstery & Window Cleaning Service

6

M.PS PROPERTY REPAIRS

01583 431161

ARGYLL & BUTE COUNCILS MONTHLY SPEND

Release licensed under the Open Government Licence by Spikes Cavell, 2011 spotlightonspend. All rights reserved. Registered in England 109,021,555 100% Social Community Care 25,819,824 23.68% Facilities & Management Services 15,771,169 14.47% Construction 15,086,703 13.84% Construction Materials 7,647,186 7.01% Public Transport 7,602,764 6.97% Utilities 6,930,769 6.36% Info, Communication Technology 5,471,952 5.02% Financial Services 4,519,991 4.15% Vehicle Management 4,513,208 4.14% Environmental Services 2,714,837 2.49% Human Resources 2,112,894 1.94% Catering 1,640,861 1.51% Highway Equipment & Materials 1,389,809 1.27% Housing Management 950,151 0.87% Education 929,572 0.85% Healthcare 745,329 0.68% Mail Services 667,328 0.61% Arts & Leisure Services 654,023 0.60% Consultancy 605,750 0.56% Legal Services 535,543 0.49% Sports -Play Equi[ & Maint 396,357 0.36% Street & Traffic Management 363,713 0.33% Stationery 303,122 0.28% Cleaning & Janitorial 291,118 0.27% Health & Safety 183,027 0.17% Horticultural 164,277 0.15% Clothing 162,437 0.15% Furniture & Soft Furnishings 139,516 0.13% Domestic Goods 20,977 0.02% Cemetery & Crematorium 9,610 0.01% Trade - No Summary Category 677,738 0.62%

CARRADALE SCHOOL REPORT

We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone in the community who donated to our Rag Bag collection. We collected a total of 496kg and we have recently received a cheque for 249.50, which was a great achievement. The Rag Bag Collection Bin is now empty and items of clothing, shoes, bedding and books can be bagged and placed into it at anytime. Primary 1-4 have been taking part in Forest Schools recently, where they have been in the forest exploring. They are developing skills in team building, communication, listening and taking turns. If you take a walk in Crow Wood you may notice a small shelter or a giant dragons nest! Here is a picture of Primary 1-4 sitting inside their Dragon's Nest, which they made as a team. Primary 1-7 were asked to perform at the Guild's Musical Performance on Monday 24th October. The pupils have been learning songs in class linking into their Scotland and Harvest Projects. Primary 1-4 sang 'You cannae shove your Grannie off a Bus' and then joined P6-7 to sing 'Big Red Combine Harvester', 'Mr Scarecrow' and 'Sing a Song for Harvest'. P4-7 played 'Skye Boat Song' on the bells and accompanied the song 'Mr Scarecrow' by playing the glockenspiel and maracas. Everyone enjoyed taking part and would like to thank the Guild for asking us to perform. Miss Lynn Galbraith.

CINEMA
Sat 19 Nov 2011 for 6 days at 8.00pm. JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN (PG)

SADDELL AND CARRADALE GUILD OPEN EVENING: MONDAY 24TH OCTOBER

Congratulations to Catherine Black for once again providing the guild with an excellent musical evening; talented young musicians from Campbeltown Brass, Castlehill Choir, Carradale School and two local pipers, all gave very professional performances. Catherine not only compered but also conducted the choir and accompanied some other items on a keyboard. She was assisted by Mr. McVicar who conducted the brass quartets and accompanied the solo Brass. Special mention must be made of Archie who, as the only boy in the Castlehill Choir, and almost dwarfed by his tuba, won the hearts of the audience for his performance. The highlight of evening for many must have been Carradale school (all 12 of them) with their enthusiastic singing of four songs and an unexpected quartet of hand bell ringers. The theme for the concert was happiness and Catherine certainly achieved this when she introduced community singing of two action songs. Margaret Brown gave a vote of thanks and spoke for everyone in the hall by saying how enjoyable the evening had been. She presented flowers to Catherine and also to Lynn Galbraith in recognition of all their hard work. The evening ended with a wealth of refreshments provided and served by committee members. M.P.

THE SHOP IS OPEN Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 8am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm. Thursday 8am to 1pm. Sundays: One hour only from 10am to 11am TELEPHONE 01583 431725 THE POST OFFICE IS OPEN Monday to Saturday 9am-1pm
Try our freshly baked morning rolls, crusty bread, tea bread and cakes, all baked in our old-fashioned stone oven
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Phone KeeF
01583 431614
SAVING MONEY
ADVICE FROM A FUEL WORKER Only buy or fill up your car or truck in the early morning when the ground temperature is still cold. Remember that all service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground. The colder the ground the more dense the petrol, when it gets warmer petrol expands, so buying in the afternoon or in the evening....your litre is not exactly a litre. In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the temperature of the petrol, diesel and jet fuel, ethanol and other petroleum products plays an important role. A one-degree rise in temperature is a big deal for this business. But the service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps. When you're filling up do not squeeze the trigger of the nozzle to a fast mode If you look you will see that the trigger has three stages: low, middle, and high. You should be pumping on low mode, thereby minimizing the vapours that are created while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump have a vapour return. If you are pumping on the fast rate, some of the liquid that goes to your tank becomes vapour. Those vapours are being sucked up and back into the underground storage tank so you're getting less worth for your money. One of the most important tips is to fill up when your petrol tank is half full. The reason for this is the more petrol you have in your tank the less air occupying its empty space. Petrol evaporates faster than you can imagine. Petrol storage tanks have an internal floating roof. This roof serves as zero clearance between the petrol and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the evaporation. Unlike service stations, here where I work, every truck that we load is temperature compensated so that every litre is actually the exact amount. Another reminder, if there is a petrol truck pumping into the storage tanks when you stop to buy petrol, do not fill up; most likely the petrol is being stirred up as the petrol is being delivered, and you might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the bottom. Sent in by Isabella Soudan

Need a repair or a small job done? Cant get a tradesman to come out?

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BANKING ON THE POST OFFICE
TAKING NOTES OF CUSTOMER NEED After last months article about pensioners and those receiving other benefits receiving their weekly pay-out in nothing greater than 5 notes and the mischievous suggestion that in future it might be wise to have equipment suitable for carrying away large amounts of coin, a letter was received on the 20th of September from the Post Office Customer Care Office, in Barnsley, signed by Claire Platt of Customer Care. The context of the apology was that Following the receipt of the complaint I contacted the Branch Manager responsible for the Carradale office. They have advised me that they have had more demand for the 20 banknote, compared to the lower denominations we have in circulation. The Branch Manager has assured me that they had arranged for further cash to be delivered to the branch, and they were waiting for these to be delivered. The Branch Manager has apologised for any inconvenience this matter may have caused.

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

OCTOBER RAINFALL Septembers very wet weather continued throughout October. The total rainfall recorded was 273mm (nearly 11 inches). In our record keeping only two years recorded a higher total, 289 mm in 2001 and a massive 312mm in 2008. The years total to date has now reached 1495 mm (nearly 60 inches). As the year has progressed the rainfall pattern was at first in the below average category, it then moved to average, and it is now above average rainfall. Comparisons are interesting. In only three years (2002, 2004, & 2005) has the accumulated rainfall total been higher at this stage in the year. This year bucks the trend as in recent years overall totals had been decreasing. In October, rainfall was recorded on every day, with particularly large amounts on the 9th, 12th and 17th (20mm, 27mm and 29mm). A Carradale resident reported to me that a longstanding local had told him that the previous record of 59 consecutive wet days had been overtaken and at the time of the conversation stood at 61, since then several additional wet days pushed that total even higher. Even ignoring statistics and heresay, we have had a really prolonged wet spell. Now the clocks have gone back, we can expect some winter weather. However lets hope we have some dry weather with some sunny days to cheer us all up! M.L.

FLOATING MONEY
A PADDLING PLEASURE

SMOKING MONEY
ILLEGAL CIGARETTE SALES ON ISLAY Argyll and Bute Councils Trading Standards team have found 22 percent of shopkeepers on Islay are selling cigarettes to customers as young as 14. Staff organised an operation using volunteers under the age of 18 to try and buy cigarettes in various shops on the island. Despite the traders of Islay being told they would be tested using volunteers attempting to buy age restricted goods, illegal sales were still being made. 22% of Islay traders sold cigarettes to a 14 year old. Officers routinely carry out inspections at all shops and provide businesses with advice on how they can comply with the laws that apply to them. Chair of the Planning Protective Services and Licensing Committee, Councillor Danny Kelly said, It is great news that the majority of the traders listened to the advice given and challenged the young people trying to buy cigarettes, but it is still disappointing that some traders are ignoring the law. Every year more than 100,000 people die from smoking related causes and two thirds of smokers start before they are 18. We want to protect the health of the young people of Argyll & Bute. Traders should be aware that the councils trading standards team will be back on Islay and if they ignore the law then they may find themselves having to answer for their actions in court. Traders seeking advice should call Argyll and Bute Councils Trading Standards team on 01546 604 404
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Argyll and Bute councillors have agreed one-off grant funding of 15,000 to support one of Scotlands bestknown vessels. The decision follows a funding plea from Waverley Excursions Ltd in September to all the councils where the famous paddle steamer sails. The letter stated that without one-off support from those councils which benefit from the Waverleys visits, the charity would not be able to pay for its winter re-fit this year and the boat would be taken out of commission. Argyll and Bute Council leader, Councillor Dick Walsh, said that the councils view in the past has been that its current practice of not imposing either berthing or passenger dues on the Waverleys trips to Argyll and Bute destinations was equivalent to a substantial financial donation. However, it has now become clear that without a one-off cash boost this year, there is a very real danger that we will not see the Waverley in our waters again, he added. This is a unique and much-loved vessel which has served the communities of Argyll and Bute for almost 40 years. As well as being a popular attraction for local people it is also a big draw for visitors to the area, and the thousands of passengers the Waverley carries bring a significant economic boost to Argyll and Bute communities. The impact of its loss would be felt by many across the region. We have therefore agreed the one-off funding in recognition of the historical significance of the vessel and the value it has to towns across Argyll and Bute. Waverley Excursions Ltd, which has preserved, maintained and operated the paddle steamer on a charitable basis since 1975, has also approached trusts, corporate bodies and individuals for funding. The charitys management is currently reviewing its business model with the aim of making funds available on an ongoing basis to ensure the future financial viability of the vessel. A summary development plan setting out the basis on which the company proposes to operate was provided in support of the funding application.

FUELLING THE EAST KINTYRE ECONOMY

THE APPLICATION
OUTLINE PROPOSAL SUBMITTED TO VILLAGE SOS, IN OCTOBER 2011 BY AN AD HOC COMMITTEE OF PEOPLE CONCERNED OVER THE ABSENCE OF ROAD FUEL FACILITIES IN EAST KINTYRE A community owned Pump Truck. The proposal is for a trailer that incorporates a 10-15,000 litre fuel tank subdivided to take both petrol and diesel. Attached will be an unmanned, credit-card operated, fuel pump, available 24 hours a day. A cabin on the trailer will house the control systems and the Internet access to process the credit cards. Both pump and control equipment will be powered by batteries fed from an array of photo-voltaic solar panels, a small wind turbine, and a fixed exercise cycle. The village school will decorate the sides of the trailer. Initially, the Pump Truck will stand on the site of the recently closed village filling station, which has the necessary planning permission and environmental certification in place. The owners, who previously operated the filling station, are offering both their land and their support. However, we are negotiating with Argyll and Bute Council for authorization to develop the area adjacent to our working harbour. When circumstances allow, the Pump Truck will move to the harbour. By attracting cars and pleasure craft to a new slipway, the Pump Truck will be an important element in our harbour, and thereby our community, regeneration. Properly marketed, a community Pump Truck will draw visitors to our village and meet our critical need for a local fuel supply. Motorists will be able to stretch their legs and show their support for community enterprise by taking a turn on the cycle while filling up with fuel. Why is your community enterprise needed? Our village is in decline. School enrolment is down to eleven pupils. In twelve months we have lost a pub, the minister and the filling station. Of the four filling stations on the Kintyre peninsula a year ago, two remain. Fuel is vital to our community's survival. In East Kintyre, 31% of the population is aged 65 or over. This compares to a national average of 17% and, in the world's greyest country, Japan, the figure is only 22%. To get fuel, we all now face a 35 mile round trip along a badly maintained winding road dominated by timber lorries. Our elderly and more vulnerable drivers depend on their cars not only for their own needs; they regularly shop for neighbours older or less mobile than themselves and ferry them around the village and to and from medical appointments. Without a local filling station motorists are less willing to make our village a base for their holidays and pleasure boats have little incentive to call in at the harbour. A community owned filling station would generate revenue by facilitating local businesses (including our popular caravan park), support independent living for our elderly, and -importantly demonstrate to ourselves that rural decline can be reversed. There would be a significant environmental and financial saving if people no longer needed to drive 35 miles simply to purchase fuel for local use. How have you consulted with the people in your village - what were the results and how have you acted on them? The East Kintyre Community Council recently completed a community survey with survey forms to every household. In addition, a web site was set up (www.villageweb.org.uk) to act
Not necessarily the type or size of facility being considered

as a forum for people to float their pipe dreams. The need for a solution to the fuel problem was the single strongest theme to emerge from the survey. Last year a sister community, Applecross, some four hours drive up the coast, opened its own unmanned 24 hour Community Filling Station, believed to be the first in the UK. Our Community Council has liaised with theirs and with that of Uig on Skye which has established a manned community filling station. Our informal Fuel Group is collecting quotes from the company that supplied the equipment for the Applecross installation as well as other potential suppliers. Whilst our solution will be novel in that it will use a moveable tank, the pumping and payment equipment exists and has been tried and tested. How much money do you need (I0-30kno more than 25k if it involves building): 30,000 pounds. What do you plan to spend the money on? The provisional cost breakdown is: The pump: 5,500 The card terminal: 4,500 Tank gauging system & leak monitor: 3,000 Control equipment: 6,000 Tank: 5,000 Trailer: 6,000 The additional costs for the photovoltaic panels, wind turbine, fixed cycle, and batteries would be raised locally.

1ST STAGE SUCCESS

13TH NOVEMBER 2011 ISSUES ARISING FROM THE FIRST STAGE The documentation made available at the time of the first stage of the competition was very limited. Now that we have reached the second stage and have now received detailed terms and conditions there are a few issues which were not clear before: 1. In the competition the maximum allowed submission was for 30,000, however they stipulated that if the proposal included building works the limit for building works was 25,000. As our proposal was for a pump truck we felt that the limitation did not apply to our proposal. However, in the second stage the wording has now changed to a 25,000 limit on capital works (e.g. building), which does include us. So in the offer letter that we received (you can see it on the web site) they make it clear that the capital expenditure has to be limited to 25,000 but that we can include a further 5,000 for operational costs, such as volunteer expenses. 2. We realized when preparing the proposal that to run a fuel operation the company would need to be VAT registered and so it made sense to register it for VAT at the outset so that any VAT paid on equipment could be reclaimed. However, the detailed terms stipulate that the grant will be VAT inclusive and that any VAT reclaimed must be paid back to them, which is quite a hit. This combined
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with item 1 above means that the actual amount available for capital costs is just 20,800 + VAT. 3. They stress that the grant, should we get it, cannot be used for any expenses incurred before receiving the grant. So any costs, such as legal or travel costs, that we incur in the process of putting this proposal together will have to be borne by us, unless some other body will provide some seed money. TASKS There are a number of tasks which need to be done by the submission date of the 2nd February. Provisionally these are: 1. Researching, defining and costing the technical solution. To date we have been in contact with two manufacturers. The first Barry Onions of Gilbarco Veeder-Root (barry.onions @gilbarco.com 07801 722618), they are the company which did the installation at Applecross with its 24hr unmanned credit card system. The second contact is Jacquie Holt of Terence Barker Ltd (Jacquie@ tbtanks.co.uk 01440 712905) who do tanks on trailers and, according to The Sunday Post, they are talking to several Community Councils. We need more details and more detailed prices. We also need more details on the electricity aspect. In our proposal we suggested solar panels, wind power, and pedal power. We need to know if this is viable in a realistic budget or will we have to rely on connecting to mains electricity. It might be sensible to also explore a plan B an arrangement with the Semples to rehabilitate the existing installation? 2. Researching and designing the organizational solution. Running a petrol station in perpetuity is clearly a major undertaking. We have to know how other community petrol stations are run i.e. the mix of voluntary and paid labour. How do they handle ordering, VAT, meeting health and safety requirements. We also need to check up on the legal side are we correct in thinking that the permissions that the Semples already have for selling petrol on their land will cover the pump truck solution? 3. Designing and setting up the company. Clearly, one possibility is for Network Carradale to be the legal vehicle for running the petrol station. However, even if Network does run it I would have thought that there was a case for the petrol station to be owned by a separate company so that there was a firewall between Network and the petrol station. The petrol station will have a relatively high turnover and will need a float to buy in fuel and as such will be a bit risky in short it might go bust and it would be unfortunate if that meant losing the Network Centre. If a new Community Interest Company is formed then it will need designing. Whatever formal solution is adopted the company will need to clarify its procedures in relation to 2 above, its accountability to the community, and will also need to register for VAT and have a bank account. 4. Finding the additional funding. It seems likely that quite a bit of additional funding will be required. The competition terms state that if additional funding is used then the National Lottery funding must constitute the majority, thus any additional funding will have to be less than 30,000. However much it is, there is very little time to find and formally secure it. 5. Writing the business plan. The competition requires a formal business plan. 6. Writing the proposal. All of the above will need to be pulled together into the final proposal.

TOMMY MILLAR TRAVEL COUNSELLOR

For all your Travel and Holiday Arrangements put your trust in your own Travel Adviser TOMMY MILLAR Tel 0845 058758 E-mail tommy.millar@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/tommy.millar

R.N.M.D.S.F.
MATTHEW AT ST. PAULS Carradales Matthew Ramsay had the privilege of participating as part of the Colour Party at the 130th Annual National Service for Seafarers at St. Pauls Cathedral, London, in October. As Superinten dent of the Fishermens Mission in Kintyre, Matthew has a long association with the sea and with fishermen as Bosun onboard the Fishery Protection vessel, Norna. At the present time, in the absence of a full-time minister at Carradale Church, he serves as Acting Minister for one day a week but is available for pastoral work when his other responsibilities allow him time to be at home. Fortunately for those attending the service, including Princess Anne and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the anti-capitalism camp had not been established access was not restricted.

CARRADALE VISITOR SURVEY

This unofficial questionnaire was available in the Network Tearoom, the hotels, the caravan park, one guest house and two self-catering lets throughout September 2011. Dear Carradale Visitor, The East Kintyre Community Council is drawing up a Community Plan for future development. Visitors have played a vital role in the life of Carradale for more than a hundred years. Would you help us by taking a minute to answer a few questions? Please feel free to answer on your own behalf or as a couple or group. We hope to ensure that you will always want to return to Carradale in the future. Thank you. Total number of visitor surveys returned 44 From the Network Tea Room 32 From self-catering lets 5 From guest houses 3 From an hotel 4 1. How long have you been coming here, or is this your first visit? First timers 18 Up to 10 years 9 Over 10 years 7 30 years/forever 10 2. Why did you choose to come to Carradale and will you be coming back? One will not be coming back because "the place is too isolated." Another who came often in the old days will not be coming back because "the village has died". 8 visitors said they were touring Kintyre to enjoy the scenery and probably will not be coming back. The reasons 33 visitors wish to return are: Peace, tranquillity, scenery, friendly folk" 23 To visit friends and family 3 The specific attractions named were: Walking 7 Hospitality and food 3 Geocaching 3 Campbeltown Sea-tours 2 Cycling 2 Camping 1 3. Do you have friends or family, particularly children, who would rather go somewhere else for their holiday and if so why? Yes: They want somewhere warmer/abroad 7 Lack of entertainment for young people 7 No: 9 4. What can we change that would make Carradale a better place to come for a holiday? All Ideas - great and small - will be very welcome. We love it as it is, do nothing. 1 We love it as it is, do nothing except tidy up the harbour area. 6 Tidy up along Shore Road. 6 Tidy up specifically the pier 4 Tidy up the village generally. 4 Get more:Info, on walks and wildlife 6 Ice cream/cafes 6

Alasdair McPhee
FINANCIAL SERVICES

IFA

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Roads mended 6 Entertainment specifically mentioned : traditional music & Lifeboat Festival 5 Seafood fresh and restaurants 5 Transport links on mainland & to Arran 4 Petrol 2 Cheaper golf 2 Wet-sult and cycle hire 2 5. Do you have family living in Carradale? Yes 3 No 31 No response given 10 6. Would you consider moving permanently to Carradale? If so, why? Yes 4. Yes if I had work here 1. No 23 All of the Nos said, in effect, "I'm a town person but I love to visit here" If not, why not? We're too old 7. No work 3. Visitor's Pipe Dreams Of 44 people surveyed 14 people spelled out their wishes: 1. "The chance to buy fresh fish from the boats, that's what people look for in a fishing village. Better maps of the walks, wet suits and cycles for hire. Fresh ice cream in a harbour tea room." 2. "Cash in on the Kintyre Trail, create facilities for walkers, showers etc. Big plan would be a hostel. Also spruce up around harbour and pier." 3." What are Carradale's USPs? (unique selling points) Are these adequately publicized? Are there features not welI developed - water sports (safe shallow bay) - wildlife (scenery also) - guides -tour - hot spots (hides?) - photography opportunities 4. "We need to think about "destination" ideas e.g. trails, events, shops, attractions. Also build up a "Friends of Carradale" network. Maybe rename the Network Centre." 5. "Leaflets for walks with distances clearly outlined. Encourage traditional music in village hall. Improve phone reception." 6. "Develop harbour area." 7. "Vegetables and fish for sale, a foot/bike ferry to Arran, cheaper golf, bus that connects with Glasgow bus." 8. "Buy fresh fish, cheaper golf or beginner's rates, boat trips from here to Arran or elsewhere, petrol available." 9. "More web presence, better transport links, fresh fish to buy, more activities - boats, pony trekking, wind-surfing/kite-surfing, petrol, good pubs/pub lunches, better shops - more supplies." 10. "More entertainment (ceilidhs)" 11. "More information on sea birds and other life which may be seen in the Kilbrannan Sound." 12. "Bring back the ice-cream, and cafes, improve the roads and get rid of the pot holes." 13. "More pubs" 14. "Sea-food restaurant, way-marked walks with leaflets."
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CARRADALE GOLF CLUB Welcomes visitors

For further information contact The Secretary, Margaret Richardson 2 Old Schoolhouse, Carradale PA28 6QJ Tel: 01583 43178821

Juniors Round 8.00 Daily 10.00 Weekly Two weeks Country m/s 40.00

Adult 17.00 20.00 80.00 105.00 132.00

(May play in Club Competitions) Affiliated Club members 10.00

WWW.VILLAGEWEB.ORG.UK: TOWARDS A COMMUNITY PLAN: FIRST SUBMISSIONS

RESIDENTS, REGULAR VISITORS AND ANTLER READERS DIVULGE SOME PERSONAL PIPE DREAMS
We want to know your dreams for the future of Carradale, Saddell, and Peninver the area covered by the East Kintyre Community Council. No idea is too small or too big. It does not matter if your ideas are not fully worked out proposals. It does not matter if the idea seems crazily impractical. Your dream may inspire somebody elses practical idea. CHANGE STARTS WITH IDEAS. Send your ideas to the steering group for the East Kintyre Community Plan, Ardcarrach, The Pier, Carradale, PA28 6SQ e-mail: info@map maker.com. The following are the pipe dreams that have been shared so far. None of these are formal proposals they are not in any sense official. Construction of tennis courts, Hire of golf clubs. (Again could be done with the hire of the other equipment) Hire of fishing tackle, both sea and river. Indoor Activities I would suggest that the museum at the Network centre could be re-sited, perhaps in part of the village hall, and that the building would be better utilised by providing a centre where children and teenagers could meet indoors. This does not have to be an organised youth club - just somewhere they can gettogether, have a soft drink, and use of a computer, board games etc under supervision of an adult volunteer. If computers and broadband were provided these could be used during the day by those members of the community who do not currently have this facility. Help and instruction could also be provided with the help of a volunteer. I would be willing to assist in any capacity if any of the above ideas were accepted. FROM MARGARET RICHARDSON Buy the Glen and making it into a Respite Centre. Have WiFi at the Network Centre. An interactive nature set-up in the Heritage Centre. FROM SHELAGH CAMERON A mini bus for the village - electric if possible. We could maybe get sponsorship from the electricity company. How about a swimming pool? An outdoor activity centre? Kite buggies at the bay - similar to kite surfing but on the land.(I suppose it could be wheelchair friendly but maybe a tad too exciting for senior wheelchair users) surfing would also be an option. Canoeing? Windsurfing? people to come and stay for some months, to return and people living locally to develop and extend their skills and expression. It would need work space, exhibition space, living space and food as a simple art and sustainer of those visiting and taking part. There could be space for gardening as a practical and creative expression as well! Renovate the stepping stones at Waterfoot FROM TESS WOODCRAFT AND ALAN FOUNTAINS, LONDON The creation of a Naomi Mitchison Centre which could be an exploration of all her activities as a writer/feminist/activist/gardener etc + if established could also be the stepping off place for a writers retreat/writing courses/ a literary festival indeed an NM industry. a project one would hope might attract serious support in Scotland. It is also chimes in with the writers retreat idea. This could become a significant project bringing many people to the village. If it really took off it would be of local, regional, national and international significance. The creation of a flower walk in and around Carradale. This could also be associated with the idea of the bird/owl etc sanctuary. People come to Carradale (in part) for nature - a lot more could be done to inform visitors of what really is around them and how to interact with it. Day trips to observe eagles on Arran could be built in etc. A kids nature trail etc. Information about flowers/birds/trees etc available on your mobile as you walk around great for a tree guide to Saddle as you walk down the path? Ditto on a flower walk. FROM THE KING FAMILY, CHICAGO National theme ceilidh (Polish, German, Morris, etc), 2nd bar to replace Glen, Fish store at pier Hot air ballooning, hang gliding, and guided scuba diving, Chartered boat cruises, and canoe rental, Tea room at pier, Tea shop at Claonaig, Food on Lochranza ferry, Bicycles for hire, Ponies for hire, Gas station.

RESIDENTS PIPE DREAMS

FROM SUE HARRIS, WATERFOOT If we want to reverse the trend of Carradale becoming an aging village and eventually dying out or just being holiday homes we have to provide those things that young people, both single and with families, want. In these days that is not necessarily jobs within the village. With good computer links there is more working from home and with good access routes people commute further to work or even work away from home Monday to Friday. Young people want activities, both indoor and outdoor, for themselves and their families and I think this is the area we should be looking at. Carradale has a fantastic beach with a sheltered bay (most of the time) which is totally under-utilised except by the caravan park. It also has a lot of forest tracks nearby. It could become one of the best outdoor activity centres on the west coast of Scotland which would also bring visitors as well as permanent residents. In view of the above my suggestions for the areas we should be looking at are:Transport and Access Improvement in the condition of the roads to the village. Number and time of flights to/from the airport especially Monday morning and Friday evening. Foot passenger boat to Blackwaterfoot, Arran during the summer. This should tie in with the bus from Blackwaterfoot to Loch Ranza and Brodick. Use of Beach and Bay Better access to the beach. Currently disabled people are unable to access it unless staying at the caravan park. The possibility of a community or private business offering tuition courses and hire of equipment for:Windsurfing, Dingy sailing, Canoeing, Fishing trips, Provision of visitor buoys at Airds Rock side of the bay. Use of Forest and Tracks Hire of bikes. This could be done in conjunction with the hire of the other equipment above, Construction of an adventure park for children with aerial walks, ladders, tree houses etc. Approach car rally clubs about using the area. The last two would obviously have to be done with the liaison/approval of the Forestry Commission. Other Outdoor Activities

VISITORS PIPE DREAMS

FROM CHRIS HUDSON, LONDON A fish shop. What is the point of a fishing village where you can't buy fresh fish from a fisherman? One of the great delights of a Mediterranean holiday is fresh fish. The taste and texture are totally different when it has just been pulled out of the sea. Couldn't Carradale have a fresh fish shop? Even if it was once a week, if it became known that Carradale was the place for fresh fish from eg. 8.00 till 12.00 on Thursdays, the boats would benefit from direct sales and other Carradale shops from passing trade. But it would take time to build up so wouldnt appeal to boats who I imagine want bulk customers. Youd need to do research into how they sell at present. Maybe a trial period staffed by volunteers and or young people. A fresh fish bistro at the pier, like that heavenly place in Skipness, that would be a dream come true. FROM THE FIELD FAMILY, CAMBRIDGE A Carradale Owl/raptor/bird sanctuary, A chip shop at the pier, Miniature golf FROM JENNIE BIGGS, ABERDEEN A writers and artists retreat. I would like to see a writer's and artist's retreat that would draw in people locally and internationally, that would provide space and support for people to be creative in their own right and together. It could involve craft skills as well and attract
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THE RESULTS OF THE VILLAGE SURVEY IN EAST KINTYRE

Summary received from Malcolm McMillan, South Kintyre Development Trust Project Officer, 3 Harveys Lane, Burnside Square, Campbeltown Argyll PA28 6GE Phone: 01586 552870 Mobile: 07852 956 645 Email: malcolm.mcmillan@skdt.org The Survey was conducted by SKDT on behalf of East Kintyre Community Council and residents in the area.

There will be a public workshop to present the results to the public and discuss action points on Saturday the 14th of January at 2pm in Carradale Hotel. Malcolm McMillan thanks all the Antler distributors, Carradale postal officers and the members of the East Kintyre steering group who have been fantastic in assisting in this project. 426 questionnaires were distributed and 161 returned. Peninver (Code P), Saddell (Code S) and Carradale (Code C) - Total
Q.1. What do you like about your community?
P The People/Nature of the Community Environment Services & facilities Other Nothing Everything No Comment Q. 2. What do you not like? Community issues Housing Roads/Transport Links Economy Services & facilities Nothing No comment 4 3 6 2 7 7 7 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 49 7 35 13 60 3 12 53 13 42 15 70 11 19 33 8 26 9 43 7 13 33 18 10 0 0 3 2 S 5 0 3 0 0 0 0 C 92 60 26 2 2 1 3 T 130 78 39 2 2 4 5 % Infighting 81 48 25 1 1 2 3 Nosey people Undesireable incomers (addicts, fraudsters) Apathy/Negativity Lack of support for comm.events/projects/facilit ies Cliquey community/Lack of community spirit Gossip Incomers Need more families/Retirement Village Anti-social behaviour Alcohol, drugs, etc. Lack of co-ordination between groups Lack of communication about events Housing issues Empty properties/holiday homes Allocation of housing to outsiders over locals Lack of affordable housing/1st time buyers Ribbon housing Development Infrastructure, Roads and transport Economy Environment Housing Local services and facilities Other No change No comment Q.4 What should happen first? Infrastructure, roads and transport Economy Environment Services and Facilities Housing Community / Communication Nothing No comment Q.5. Age and Gender 12 to 17 18 to 24 25 to 44 45 to 59 60 to 69 70 to 75 76 plus No Answer Male? Female? No Answer 1 7 11 13 4 1 17 16 3 1 3 2 2 1 1 2 1 9 25 42 12 26 10 53 66 8 0 1 12 32 55 26 31 11 71 85 13 Inappropriate development 15 9 2 5 10 5 1 6 4 3 0 3 4 0 0 0 44 41 25 5 54 30 1 9 63 53 28 14 74 38 2 15 39 33 17 9 46 24 1 9 Roads/Transport Condition of roads High road speeds Street lights Transport links bus service Poor sign age on Bay Road Parking Access to Bay Low road speeds Economy High fuel prices Lack of job/training opportunities for young people Lack of Tourists 14 10 2 13 5 4 2 6 1 5 0 3 1 0 0 0 56 31 41 40 2 10 0 16 71 46 43 56 8 14 2 22 44 29 27 35 5 9 1 14 Lack of job opportunities Businesses for Sale Demise of fishing and forestry Services & facilities Slow internet speeds/Mobile coverage Health Service Council/Government Agencies/Policing Neglect of village spaces (playing field, road verges, litter, dog fouling) Lack of facilities (especially indoor) for youngsters (and other ages) Lack of meeting places/pub/(The Glen) School Closure/Shop closure Loss of minister No Petrol Station Condition of Harbour Public toilets Lack of visitor facilities Caravan site Maintenance of Grass More power for community councils Community council boundary issues Nothing No comment

Q.2. Community issues

4 P 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 1 1 6 1 2 0 4 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 7 4 1 0 1

0 S 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2

49 C 3 2 4 12 9 10 4 3 9 3 3 1 7 6 1 2 0 0 35 25 7 4 8 2 1 1 0 13 0 2 1 9 3 1 60 2 2

53 T 3 2 4 12 11 12 4 3 11 3 4 1 13 8 1 2 1 3 42 26 9 4 13 2 1 1 1 15 1 2 1 10 3 1 70 8 3 4 20

33 % 6 4 8 23 21 23 8 6 21 6

Q.3. What would make it a better place?

P Infrastructure, Roads & transport Create/repair pavements/street lights Upgrade/repair/maintain roads and verges Reduce speed limits through villages Better Public Transport Better broadband/mobile coverage Sewers Harbour Improvements New Toilets 15 2 6 2 5 6 0 0 0 9 7 0 2 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 5 0 10 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 S 4 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 0 4 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 C 44 3 28 2 13 2 1 11 1 41 6 31 0 15 1 0 26 7 3 19 3 0 6 0 5 1 60 1 10 13 5 1 5 4 14 15 2 4 2 0 0 0 33 9 3 4 7 3 2 11 1 9 T 63 5 35 4 19 10 1 11 1 53 16 31 2 17 1 2 28 7 3 19 3 2 14 2 11 1 74 1 15 18 5 1 5 4 14 15 2 4 2 1 2 6 38 12 3 4 7 3 2 11 2 15 % 39 8 56 6 30 16 2 17 2 33 30 58 4 32 2 4 17 25 11 68 11 7 9 14 79 7 46 1 20 24 7 1 7 5 19 20 3 5 3 1 3 8 24 32 8 11 18 8 5 29 1 9

Q.4. What should happen first?

P Infrastructure, roads and transport Road improvements Bus Service FerryLinks Speed Limit Street Lighting/Pavements Ditches/Grit Harbour development and refurbishment Economy More Jobs Business Support Broadband Mobile Encourage Tourism (Make Village More Attractive) New Industry Affordable Industrial Units (Workshops) Improve work conditions for local carers Cheaper fuel Environment Beach Clean Paths Harbour Clean Communal Areas/Grass/Gardens General maintenance Better looking caravan site Services and Facilities Maintain Play park Sports Facilities After hours health care Elderly Services Keep schools Open 14 9 4 1 1 1 0 0 10 2 0 5 0 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 13 2 0 4 1 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 5 3 2 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 2 6 S 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 C 56 29 9 2 2 7 3 20 31 13 2 0 10 4 2 1 0 41 2 13 26 10 0 0 40 1 5 2 1 2 4 22 6 12 2 1 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 10 4 3 1 2 1 0 0 16 T 71 39 13 3 3 8 3 20 46 15 3 9 10 4 3 1 2 43 2 13 26 10 1 1 56 5 5 6 3 2 8 22 6 12 2 1 1 2 2 1 8 6 2 14 7 3 1 2 1 2 2 22 % 44 55 18 4 4 11 4 28 29 33 7 20 22 9 7 2 4 27 5 30 60 23 2 2 35 9 9 11 5 4 14 39 11 21 4 2 2 4 4 2 5 75 25 9 50 21 7 14 7 14 1 14

8 2 8 62 8

Economy Encourage small businesses Create jobs Reduce fuel costs Encourage tourism More Shops

15 8 23 26 62 21 10 31 5 2 2 2 9 7 13 7 67 20 7 43 11 4 6

Jobs for young people Environment Protect, manage and enhance beauty spots Footandcyclepaths Tidy Harbour Disabled Access to the beach Renovate Caravan Site Housing Simplify planning laws/Less wind turbines More affordable housing No undesirables (criminals, addicts) Services and facilities Sports Facilities Facilities/Activities for young people Meeting Place Pub/Cafe Hotel Keep School open Police Presence More Amenities and Services More shops/A shopping service Facilities for visitors

Q.3. What would make it a better place?

Facilities / Activities for young people Petrol Station Pontoons at the harbour The Glen/Network Centre refurbishment Toilets (inc. disabled access) Shopping Service Glen changed into respite home Shop/Cafe/Restaurant Family facilities Petrol Station Housing Affordable Housing Sensitive Housing development Community / Communication Community Events/Family Activities Return of community spirit Portrigh Well restored Community compost/Garden Joined up thinking Community owned wind turbine Nothing No comment

0 1

4 18

29

Petrol Station MoreCareintheCommunity

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 1 1 7 7

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

10 5 4 1 15 32 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 12

10 5 4 1 15 32 1 2 4 1 1 1 11 19

14 7 6 1 21 46 1 3 6 1 1 1 7 12

Community Transport Scheme Information Board Open post office Public Toilets More events in the village hall Other Attract Young Families Support local events Back to 'good old days' Less apathy Refurbish Network Centre Establish Community Garden Single community body No change No comment

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THOSE WERE THE DAYS
CONTINUING JOHN MACMILLANS CANADIAN EXPERIENCE: WITH TORRISDALE-BORN TECHNICAL EXPERTISE The first house we purchased was on a residential street in West end Toronto within walking distance of shops and street cars. It was a two storey semi-detached with three bedrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, four piece bathroom and veranda across the front, 1100 square feet not including a full basement. The lot was forty by one hundred & fifteen feet with a private drive. Walls of the basement were built with cement blocks, 7 x 7 x 15 inches to 20 inches above grade. From there up the outside walls were brick backed with cinder blocks 4 x 7 x 15 inches. Both types of blocks had open cores and the sealed air space acted as an insulator. The roof was asphalt shingles on 1 inch boards of various widths & lengths supported by 2 x 4 rough cut rafters on 16 inch centers. Several rafters were braced on the ceiling joist to support any heavy snow loads. The floor and ceiling joists were 2 x 8 rough cut across the width of the house at 16 inch centers. On both levels a sub floor of 1 inch by 6 or 8 inch pine boards of various lengths were laid diagonally to the floor joists and on top at right angles to the joists was a finished floor of tongue & grove hardwood x 3 inches also of various lengths. The kitchen and bathroom floors we covered in linoleum. A milk box 14 inches square with spring loaded hinged doors was built through the back wall five feet from ground level. The outside door fastened on the outside and the indoor on the inside. Empty milk bottles were placed there with the required money, usually in the evening. They were replaced with full ones from a horse drawn wagon, by the milkman early the next morning. Quite often during the winter the milk would freeze pushing cream and the bottle top about an inch out of each bottle. Basements are dug to at least 4 feet below grade to protect footings (foundations) from frost heave and to connect to sewer and water lines which are also located below the frost line. Our basement with 2 windows on the driveway side contained an electric panel, cast cement laundry tub, 25 gallon galvanized hot water tank, jacket heater and furnace. A wooden coal bin that held about one half ton was built under one window through which the coal was delivered. It was hard coal imported from the US that burnt with a red glow and very little flame to powder fine ash. The furnace, dome shaped 3 feet in diameter of cast iron was located on the center of the cellar floor to provide even heat throughout the house. Bricks lined the fire pot and across the bottom shaker bars, triangular shaped with interlocking ribs retained the coal and were used to shake down the ashes as required into the ash pit below. To control the heat dampers were built into the fire door and chimney. A sheet metal jacket encircled the furnace leaving an air space of 4 inches for air to circulate into sheet metal air ducts at the top. The top jacket section was concave to 4 inches and filled with sand to retain heat within the jacket. Hot air ducts, 12 inches in diameter were angled up between the floor joists, through the floor and into the dining walls. 4 x 14 inch ducts delivered hot air through the walls to the top floor where one duct served 2 rooms through grills built into the baseboards. One grill opened into the bathroom and one, back to back into one bedroom. The other duct served 2 bedrooms through grills back to back in the baseboards also. The main floor ducts came through the floor under the windows where the grills directed hot air up and across the glass to provide a barrier to cold air and also to heat the rooms. A wooden grill 2 feet 6 inches by 1 foot 6 inches in the hall floor fed cold air through a duct of the same size into the bottom of the furnace jacket. When hot, the air rose through the jacket and into the hot air ducts, then through the ducts to each room. An air space under the upstairs doors allowed cold air to be drawn down the stairway, And with cold air off the main floor, it was drawn into the cold air return duct, completing the cycle. A cast-iron container (humidifier) that held over gallon of water was fastened inside the air jacket 6 inches from the top with a channel shaped protrusion and lid through the jacket for filling. Hot air drew water vapour from the humidifier and circulated it through the house. When the outside temperature drops below 0 degrees C for an extended period the outside air becomes very dry and when coupled with hot dry air from the furnace it would dry out and shrink floors, furniture, etc. if the humidifier was not added. Noses and throats became very uncomfortable also. Each evening during winter ashes in the furnace were removed by turning the shaker bars, the fire was banked with coal and the dampers were closed. The next morning the dampers were opened and the process repeated. If the house was empty during the working hours the dampers were closed before leaving. This procedure continued all winter. The jacket heater was like a small coal stove 33 inches square inside, completely covered with a metal water-tight jacket except for the chimney and fire door and connected to the hot water tank through galvanized pipes, top and bottom. However, keeping it lit was a problem, due to the small fire box and the water was not always hot. To correct this problem during winter, I installed a cast iron water heating coil in the furnace when it was off in the summer. With galvanized pipes and fittings through knock outs beside the furnace door I connected it to the water tank. There was no shortage of hot water all winter from then on. Wood storm windows were installed with thumb screws over the outside of the existing windows during the late fall. They were replaced with screens on wooden frames in the spring. A slot 2 x 10 inches with a hinged cover was cut out in the bottom of the storm window frames to let fresh air enter when required. Wooden combination storm and screen doors were permanently in place on the outside of existing doors. A removable section in the top half 2 x 3 feet held a glass frame during the winter and a screen frame during the summer. The kitchen contained a white enamelled sink set in a counter top part way across one wall. Built into the remaining counter top there was a gas stove (cooker). Cooking with gas was new to all of us and regulating the oven temperature was quite a challenge for Mother. During the summer we purchased several garden implements including a push lawn mower. The only grass we cut in Torrisdale was with a scythe and mowing grass was fun for a while until one day I cut what appeared to be weeds but instead it was a border of flowers Mother had planted. That first house is now about 90 years old. Water for Toronto comes from Lake Ontario and after treatment is pumped throughout the city. Waste water after being treated is returned to the lake. Gas for cooking came from coke ovens in Toronto where soft coal was baked into coke for use, mostly in local blast furnaces. Natural gas that is piped in from Western Canada is now used throughout Ontario. Electricity was generated at Niagara Falls. Todays homes are completely different from our first house in design, building methods, materials, heating, air-conditioning and electric power. John MacMillan.

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CARRADALE SURGERY
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS The surgery will be closed on Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th December 2011 and Monday 2nd and Tuesday 3rd January 2012. There is not normally a surgery at Carradale on a Wednesday but any patient who feels it will be too long to wait until the Thursday of these weeks to see the doctor, should telephone on Wednesday 28th December or Wednesday 4th January between 9 and 10 am so that, if required, arrangements can be made for them to be seen by Dr Elder at Carradale on the Wednesday morning. Please also note there will be no Red Cross transport available on Thursday 29th December. Can we once again remind patients to order their repeat medications in plenty time for the festive season. WEAR IT PINK The winners of the Wear it Pink Washing Lines were as follows:Dr Elders line - Tutu - Lauren Burns. Gails line - Swimsuit - Shannon Arkell. Eileens line - Mittens - Betty MacGregor Sues line - Sandals -Michael Charlwood Thank you to all who contributed. 95 was raised in total for this campaign. CHRISTMAS HAMPER Once again, there will be a draw for a Christmas hamper on Friday 23rd December. This time in aid of Red Cross transport - so dont forget to bring some money with you when you visit the surgery if you would like to participate this year, SEASONAL FLU/ PNEUMOCOCCAL IMMUNISATIONS As in previous years, patients who are aged 65 (by 01/04/2012) and over, or those who are in at risk groups are being offered seasonal flu vaccine. At risk groups include those with diabetes, chronic heart, kidney, neurological, or respiratory disease or those patients with immuno-suppression due to disease or treatment. Flu immunisation is also being offered to those who care for someone who would be at risk should that carer fall ill. The surgery still has a few immunisations left. If you have not been contacted and think that you are eligible, please telephone surgery reception as soon as possible.

WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE AND ...

FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE WATER SUPPLIES Argyll and Bute residents who use a private water supply are being urged to make the most of a Scottish Government grant scheme to improve water quality. The Private Water Supply Grant Scheme is an initiative funded by the Scottish Government to improve peoples health by ensuring all water supplies are up to modern standards. So far, more than 1million (1,065,149.90) has been paid out in grants to improve private water supplies in Argyll and Bute. This money has directly improved the supply to 2207 properties across the area. However, the 629 applications so far received represents less than half of the 1,600-plus private water supplies in Argyll and Bute. The councils environmental health team is now highlighting that the money is still available, and local residents who have not already benefitted from it are being urged to take advantage. All owners and users of private water supplies whether domestic or commercial - are eligible for a non-means tested grant of up to 800 per property towards the cost of undertaking improvements on their supply. Treatment is usually straightforward and does not affect the taste of the water. In most cases it involves pre-filters and an ultraviolet lamp rather than any chemical treatment.

GLASGOW SHINE
We would like to say a huge thank-you to everyone who sponsored them for the Glasgow Shine and to let you all know that the fantastic amount of 1740 was raised. All money raised will be going to Breast Cancer Research. We had a brilliant night in Glasgow and managed the walk in 4 hours. We are both hoping to go back next year and who knows it might be the full marathon next time. Thanks again to everyone. Angela & Irene. Photo and report from the Carradale Goat web-site.
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THE ANTLER WELCOMES CONTRIBUTORS, SUBSCRIBERS & ADVERTISERS

Please contact the Editor at Benbecula, Waterfoot, Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6QX. Tel: 01583 431281. e-mail: geoffreyf.page@homecall.co.uk

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THE NETWORK AGM

A SANTA MARIA DELLE GRAZIE EXPERIENCE The long-awaited Network AGM took place on Friday 11th of November in Carradale Village Hall, and was attended by forty-two paid up Network devotees, a number of enquiring followers and a few non converts. Alan Walker, with his marked legal ability, and, sitting near the centre of a long table resembling something from a Leonado da Vinci fresco, took worshippers safely along the new Via della Network route, ensuring a safe progress from a communion maintained by two long-serving savants to an organisational union dedicated to the rejuvenation of an attractive and secluded nineteenth century settlement. Fifteen residents presented themselves for elevation and while thirteen were confirmed by an unnecessary vote, the following day, appropriately, twelve Network disciples remained at the table. Those who dedicated themselves were: Alan Walker, Marcus Adams, Alastair Bennett, Cathy Forbes, Mike Hurst, Stuart Irvine, Donald Macalister Hall, Alan Milstead, Margaret Richardson, Anne Currie, Jim Galbraith and Sue Harris. Shelagh Cameron and Eric Dudley withdrew their nominations during the meeting and Johnny Durnan finally withdrew his a few days later. It is to be hoped that the initiatives already in progress and others being considered by the (un)wholly alliance and its CHUG subsidiary, will have the support they deserve and the success they so earnestly seek. The Antler will follow their actions with interest and welcome any reports, announcements or edicts they wish to publish. G.P.

EKCC MINUTES
THURSDAY 6 OCTOBER 2011 TAKEN FROM THE CARRADALE GOAT, COURTESY OF JOHNNY DURNAN. PRESENT: Shelagh Cameron, Andrea Hopkins, Tom Adams, Stuart Irvine, Elizabeth McMillan, Ronnie Brownie, Counciilor John McAlpine. Apologies: Lachie Paterson, Councillor Robin Currie, Councillor Ann Horn. Convenor Shelagh Cameron welcomed everyone present MINUTES OF LAST MEETING: Proposed by Ronnie Brownie seconded by Stuart Irvine MATTERS ARISING FROM LAST MINUTES: Julian Green (Roads) - to attend next meeting, 3 November 2011 BAY ROAD - type 1 infill been delivered, price 398.16. Ian Gull to carry out mending of road. Grogport - road closed, a weight restriction sign should be put up to avoid this happening again, also sign; should have been erected at either side to say that road was closed to avoid cars backing up SPEED LIMIT - the 30mph speed limit that exists now should be extended down to Portrigh. Councillor John McAlpine stated that Sandy McTaggart was looking into the buses turning at the harbour. TREASURERS REPORT - Community Council account balance is 2246.15. PLANNING - house at Eastwood, Lochpark is to be returned to status quo - ok; David Oman - planning perm applied for to build house in field near Abbeyfield - ok. VANDALISM - during summer holidays three acts of vandalism took place at the school (roof, taps and window) cost of repair to these are as follows: roof - 461.22; Tap - 77.76; Window - 150.00. A short discussion took

EKCC STATEMENT
E-MAIL RECEIVED BY THE ANTLER EDITOR AND BY THE CARRADALE GOAT WEB-MASTER FROM THE CONVENOR OF EAST KINTYRE COMMUNITY COUNCIL Community Council minutes will be available at the community notice-board at the village hall from now on, They will also, as usual, be posted at the bus shelters in Carradale, Saddell and Peninver thus fulfilling the statutory requirements. Shelagh Cameron. While it is pleasing to read that the Convenor is now prepared to conform to Argyll and Bute Councils statutory requirements for the publication both of minutes (Est.9(i) at least 10 days before the next meeting) and agenda (Est.6(ix) minimum notice of meeting 10 days), it is a pity that the issue of minutes is petulantly restricted to bus shelters and community notice boards when residents unable to attend community council meetings or visit their nearest bus shelter or community notice board through infirmity or disability, could study the minutes at leisure in their own homes through the agency of the community councils own web-site (http://ekccblog. blogspot.com/ - which has not been updated since Saturday, 22nd May 2010), the Carradale Goat - (http://www.thecarradale-goat.co.uk/) the printed Antler and its web-site host (http://www.scribd.com/doc /Antler). However the Editor reassures readers, as with the November and December minutes, that when minutes or wind-farm decisions are displayed early enough to meet Antler publication deadlines, they will be photographed in one of the four bus shelters or two notice frames and put unaltered, as usual, in the next available printed issue.
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SOUTH KINTYRE SENIORS FORUM

NOTES FROM THE OCTOBER MEETING The meeting opened with a presentation by Claudia Albrecht on the proposals and consultation for the future of the Town Hall. Financial Statement: Margaret Turner advised that there was 253.00 in the bank account. Bank account still to have signatures changed as were awaiting minutes confirming the changes. It was suggested that the Forum apply to East Kintyre Wind-farm Trust however the group is not classed as being in East Kintyre. Margaret will look at the possibility of applying to Tangy Wind-farm. Margaret has still to write to the Rotary Club. AOCB: Some members are still having trouble with their televisions since the digital changeover. The issue was discussed and the person concerned will approach the Hydro Shop. Would still like to look at possibility of having someone to talk to them regarding this. Following a visit to the hospital Margaret Turner reported that the two wards would be combining into one. Concerns were voiced regarding this. Flu jabs would be coming soon at the Lorne and Lowland Church - dates and times are yet to be advised. George McMillan requested that thanks be recorded to Argyll Voluntary Action for taking the minutes.

place and a few points raised 1. Why is there no local police, 2. Why is there no pc presence at the Community Council meetings. At the end of the discussion it was agreed that Convenor Shelagh Cameron would write to the Chief Inspector with our concerns about lack of police presence.

Landscaping and maintenance, Patios and Paving Drainage and Fencing, Turfing and Monoblocking All tree work, Free estimates 01583 431362 & 07814767813 All excavations undertaken

Established

1989

CARRADALE GARDEN SERVICES

COMMUNITY SURVEY - all surveys should be filled in and returned ASAP or go to www.villageweb.orq.uk MEETING WITH MP - a meeting took place with Alan Reid MP on 29 August 2011. Some of the issues raised turning down at harbour, car park, 30mph throughout village MEETING WITH MSP - a meeting with Mike Russell MSP has been arranged for the beginning of December in Carradale. Date will be announced. Come along and meet your MSP. A document will be produced by the Independent Living Group and presented to Mike Russell before the meeting. Also a meeting to take place between Catherine and Stuart re Abbeyfield, taking a more active part in the Community Plan. The outcome of this meeting will also be presented to Mike Russell TREES - fruit trees, email from Bryan Gee saying that the ground around bottom of trees should be clear of grass, weeds etc - not yet done; Silver Birch - Mrs Elspeth Anderson has donated six Silver Birch trees, ideas on where they should be planted, suggestions to Convenor Shelagh Cameron COMMUNITY COUNCIL meetings Community Council Planning Training, Tuesday 8 November, Council Chambers Campbeltown, 7 to 9pm. Convenor Sheiagh Cameron to attend plus volunteer KINTYRE CRIME PREVENTION PANEL - new member needed from Community Council CORRESPONDENCE: Consultation on Grammar School e-mail. NHS Highland - letter. ACHA- email. Scottish Community Foundation - Tangy Wind farm - letter and cheque for 3863. Notice boards - Convenor Shelagh Cameron to contact Keith for a quote. ANY OTHER COMPETENT BUSINESS: Wind-farm Trust advert in Courier on 7th October, closing date for applications 31st October, distribution of funds after Community Council meeting on Thursday 3rd November. Wind-farm money not received yet - Councillor John McAlpine to make enquiries. MILEAGE STONES - could anything be done to preserve, another question for Julian Green. VILLAGE SOS - funded by Big Lottery, for application form go to www.villagesos.org. uk. Convenor Shelagh Cameron thanked everyone for attending. A.H. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Thursday 3rd November.

DRAFT EKCC MINUTES

THURSDAY, THE 3RD OF NOVEMBER PRESENT: Shelagh Cameron, Tom Adams, Andrea Hopkins, Stuart Irvine, Ronnie Brownie, Elizabeth McMillan, Councillors Robin Currie, John McAlpine, Ann Horn and John Semple. Julian Green of Argyll and Bute Council. Apology Lachie Paterson. Convenor Shelagh Cameron welcomed everyone present. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING: proposed by Ronnie Brownie seconded by Stuart Irvine. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE LAST MINUTES: Silver birch trees: a suggestion was made that three of the trees be planted in the car park at Port-na-storm. Convenor Shelagh Cameron to speak to forestry. Suggestions for the remaining three. Bay road: once completed it was agreed that Ian Gull should be asked to maintain the road. Mike Russell MSP: is to be in Carradale on Monday, the 5th of December, 2011. TREASURERS REPORT: bill for infill 399.16 paid, bill for the bay road from Gulls: rent received from Elaine Biggart. Balance in community council account - 1,847.99, Windfarm Trust account balance 68,000.15. JULIEN GREEN, Argyll and Bute council roads: Convenor Shelagh Cameron welcomed Julien Green to this months community council meeting. 1 Speed limit at Portrigh - Argyll and Bute Council are looking into all speed limits. Highlight requests for Carradale and send to Julien Green. 2 Bus turning: The Police and West Coast Motors have suggested to Argyll and Bute Council to take away last car park to make it easier for buses to turn. 3 Idiot-proof passing place signs for Carradale road. Suggestions for one at either end and two or three in the middle. This is to be looked into to see if it is feasible. 4 Grogport hill - complaints were put forward when road was closed recently due to lorry blocking the road. Could signs be put up sooner. Could signs to put up so as to be switched on as soon as possible. Could whoever is called out have a sign in the back of car ready to put up. Julien Green - As soon as an accident or car/lorry

is blocking the road people are dispatched immediately to put out signs and assess the situation and try to get information to the public as soon as possible. But this invariably takes time, signs in the backs of peoples car is not possible as they are too big and heavy, permanent signs would be too expensive. Council budget - capital Council put in extra money - Argyll and Bute this year seven million, next year five million, following year four million. Revenue - reduce staff, reduce maintenance work. Julian Green suggested that all our concerns about cutbacks should be voiced in a letter to the Scottish Government. Potholes - if these are reported correctly eg. size and location, they can be dealt with more quickly. Flooding of Peninver - Julien Green stated that a drain was to be put through the adjacent field, waiting for permission - a Farmer. Tom Adams brought up about complaints from guests staying at the hotel on the state of the Grogport road, some had even stated that they would not come back because of the condition of the road. To wind things up Convenor Shelagh Cameron said that all Carradale wants is a fair share of the money pot. Shelagh Cameron thanked Julien Green for attending the meeting. ACHA - Housing issues: housing associations there are only two local applicants and the Argyll and Bute area plus 24 outwith the area. Assurances were given from ACHA that no one was being placed in Carradale and the houses were at allocated on points. PLANNING: Sandra Galbraith extension planning rejected. ANY OTHER COMPETENT BUSINESS: Fuel problem - an application form has been submitted to village SOS (an organization providing funds to help villages with worthwhile projects) - Should hear back this month. If successful we could stand of 50% chance of receiving funds. Community Council - Network Carradale are to stay separate entities but work closer together. Convenor Shelagh Cameron thanked everyone for attending. A.H. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Thursday, the 1st of December, 2011.

EKCC WIND-FARM APPLICATIONS: NOVEMBER 2011

No. Applicant Cost Request Self Match In Assets Previous Fund Fund Kind Grant 220 Carradale Village Hall Revenue 6,000 3,000 3,000 nil nil 10,121 various 221 Carradale School Shed 450 300 150 nil nil 3,158 various 222 Machrihanish Base Revenue 20,000 2,000 nil 18.000 nil 120,452 2,500 223 Crime Prevention Xmas Project 300 300 nil nil nil 692 none 224 Campbeltown Rugby Post covers 420 420 nil nil nil nil none 225 Home-start Play days 200 200 nil nil nil nil 600 226 Tosh's Park Road repair No financial details provided 227 Port Righ Residents Step repair 6,000 5,000 1,000 nil nil nil nil 228 Carradale AFC Goalposts 1,200 600 600 nil nil ?? various 229 S.C.D.A Run. costs 4,000 1,000 2,000 1,000 nil 2,884 1,000 230 Carradale Play-park Bonfire 710 300 410 nil nil 2,222 300 231 Campbeltown Cinema Revenue. 1,000 1,000 ??? nil nil Total applications received 18,120 Confirmation of grant awards is still awaited.
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Project