eb living march/april 2015

LFREEIssue 10

Mar/Apr 2015

The only magazine for East Berwickshire and surrounding areas

PLUS LOCAL PEOPLE & PLACES, HOMES & GARDENS, FOOD, NATURE, BOOKS, COMPETITIONS & PRIZES AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

ogDIN A MILLION

Budget Wines

Election Call

Gunsgreen Riots and Linthill Murder

ightto RoamR

CRAFT MAKES FOR EASTER

AWARD

WINNING

MAGAZINE

2 MAR/APR 2015 EB Living www.ebliving.co.uk

S pringtime has arrived and we’re delighted to bring you another bumper issue of your favourite magazine.

At a ceremony in February the editorial team was proud to accept a 2014 EBDA Award on behalf of all our dedicated volunteers, supporters and great designer who work so hard to make EB Living such a popular and successful magazine. The Award recognises the ‘outstanding contribution’ a person or organisation has made in ‘social, economic or environmental fields within the Eastern Borders and North Northumberland in the past twelve months’.

We have so much to celebrate in our part of the world – a stunning coastline, beautiful countryside and multi-talented people – and it’s always difficult to fit everything into the pages of EB Living. But this month we delve again into local history, meet two people who make a difference in our communities and talk to one farmer about exploring the countryside. Our sports page looks at the future of the Jim Clark Rally and applauds the fantastic achievements of Borderer Samantha Kinghorn while we toast the contribution of Berwickshire’s young people and the growth of a local award-winning bus company .

It’s only a few weeks until we, the voters, go to the polls for the UK government elections. EB Living invited all the main parties to present their ideas to you and the three responses we received are in our General Election section.

Of course we have all your favourite features and, as ever, you’ll find great ideas for fashion, beauty and health, nature, art and crafts, food and drink and homes and gardens. And don’t miss the competitions with super prizes to be won.

So make the most of wonderful EB Living this Spring.

Pat Elliott, Editor

the ONLY magazine for East Berwickshire and surrounding areas

Pat

to EB Living

We aim to cover all of East Berwickshire and surrounding areas. If you have difficulty getting hold of your copy of EB Living, please let us know. You’ll find our contact details in the magazine.

pick up

your FREE copy

L

Reproduction of any material, in whole or part, is strictly forbidden without the prior consent of the editorial team. Allmaterial is submitted at the owner’s risk

and EB Living does not accept responsibility for facts or opinions expressed in the magazine

or on the website, nor does it accept any responsibility for material lost or damaged.

EB Living is a social enterprise company registered at Companies House

Company registration SC447410Registered office Birchfield House

Eyemouth, TD14 5LS

Front cover Poppy by the seaside by Kevin R O’Brien

Editorial team

Pat Elliott [email protected]

Amanda Hogg [email protected]

Melanie Miller [email protected]

Designer

MAMi Designs [email protected]

Photographer

Kevin R O’Brien www.fineart-images-gallery.co.uk

Printer Newman Thomson Ltd

Jubilee Road, Victoria Industrial Estate

Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9TL

EB Living, Birchfield House, Eyemouth, TD14 5LS

T. 07765 057409 E. [email protected]

www.ebliving.co.uk

Like us on or follow us on

When finished with your copy

of EB Living, please pass it on to someone who may not have read it or recycle it responsibily

OUT NOW!

CHEVIOT RENTALS LTDwww.cheviotmarquees.co.uk

[email protected] Tel: 01890 751161 • 0131 224 0093

Cheviot Marquees, Scotland, have been specialists in marquee hire for over 25 years and offer an extensive range of marquees for hire anywhere in the UK. Select from our large range of hire products and accessories from high class flooring to intricate lighting. The success of your event depends on the most appropriate marquee being selected, erected and delivered on time. We pride ourselves on being adaptable to fulfill the customer needs.

Our hands on, personal service guarantees we will cater for your own individual needs whether you are hiring a corporate event marquee, wedding marquee or looking to buy a marquee or lease on a long term basis. We have the solution for youre marquee hire needs. We operate all over Scotland and Northern England so whether you need an Edinburgh marquee hire, Glasgow, Northumberland, or even further afield.

See below some of our clients

A company who appreciates what the customer wants

“ “

pecialists in Marquee Hire, Wedding Tent, Party Tents Anywhere in the UK - SINCE 1987

S

Stunning holiday villa

in Cyprus. Visit our

website for further details

NEW


ContentsNATURE20 Headlines

Return of visitors to St Abbs Head

21 Clouds Gazing upwards

BOOKSHELF07 Three recommended reads

LOCAL HISTORY14 Eyemouth Raid

A customary pursuit

17 The Butler Did It Lady Billie’s fate

17 The Measured Mile Coastal Masts

ART & CRAFTS16 Competition

Tasmin Thomson cards to win

30 Competition Win a signed print by Roni Butcher

31 Easter Makes Easy Peasy from Whigmaleerie

FASHION & BEAUTY16 Susie Bee’s Collections16 Wild Bunch

Fantastic Flowers

FOOD & DRINK22 Allanton Inn recipe 23 Wine

Winners on a budget

SPORT34 Jim Clark Rally

Future plans

34 See Me in Rio Success for Samantha

REGULARS04 Competition winners

Prize winners from Issues 8 & 9

04 Your letters Write to us Discount Vouchers

35 Problem page A problem shared

35 Lab Report Four legged comment

FEATURES05 Local People Profile

Eyemouth’s Wendy Lough

06 Stepping Up To Scrutiny BHA explores energy efficiency

08 Right to Roam The farming view

10 Local Hero Delivering to communities

18 Route to Success A family affair

25 Everyone’s Friend A dog in a million

26 Health Simple tips to get into shape

27 Election Call General Election 2015

32 A Winning Formula Selection of the Eyemouth Herring Queen

32 Community Commitment Berwickshire’s young people

33 A Cinema in South Georgia The world of whaling

HOMES & GARDENS10 Beautiful Buddleja

The butterfly’s friend

12 Rough Luxe WIN this beautiful interiors book

13 Keeping the home fires burning - with a wood burning stove

Letters

We’re always delighted to hear from our regular readers and it was lovely to receive this note from a subscriber in Gloucestershire:

What an amazing mag – a brilliant showcase for the area.

When I’ve read my copy I always put it in a place where others will see it – hairdressers, café, Health Centre, etc.

And an email from another reader:

So good to see the area promoted this way. Lots of interesting reads especially the sports section. Well done.

Issue 8 • Betty Crocker Hallowe’en

Recipes: J Mc, Tweedmouth

• Shadowcat Films: A M, Grantshouse

• Roni Butcher Art: M S, Dunbar

Issue 9• Roni Butcher ‘Season’s End’

print: J.H., Dundee• Sarah D’Agrosa ‘Berwick

Chandlery’ print: P.A., Coldingham

• Kevin O’Brien ‘Eyemouth Storm’ print: B.H., Chirnside

• Lawson Wood ‘Dive’ book: M.S., Dunbar

• Peter Ranscombe ‘Hare’ novel: G.A., St Abbs

• Annie Sloan ‘Room Recipes’ book: P.G., Duns

Congratulations to all our competition

winners

www.ebliving.co.uk EB Living MAR/APR 2015 5

Name? Wendy Lough

Where were you born? Arbroath

Where do you live now?Bennison Square in Eyemouth.

What do you like about living there?I think we’re very lucky to have both the sea and the countryside. And the community really matters here, everybody’s there for each other.

Occupation?I am a receptionist at Fantasy Print in Berwick

Do you enjoy that?Yes, I love my job; because every day is different. You never know who is going to come through the door. I really enjoy speaking to people and love the buzz if it’s a busy day.

Childhood role models?My parents were really involved with the community when I was young and they still are, so I think that rubbed off on me. Elsie Birch was another role model. She was also involved in many community activities such as the Pensioners Club. She helped and encouraged me with my performing and I went to see her every Tuesday from when I was seven until I ended up having to bring my children with me.

You’re well known for your involvement in the community, tell me about that...I have been the President of the Eyemouth Ladies Burns Club for five years. Which I really enjoy, Burns is my hero!

Do you have a favourite poem of his?It really depends on my mood, but I like “To a Louse” and “Tam O’Shanter”.

Other committees?I am the Herring Queen Committee Publicity Officer, which involves making up the programme of events and setting up the banners. It’s a family thing - my dad’s on it, niece, nephew and daughter. It’s a great time of year; it brings people of all ages together and has something for everyone. My sister and daughter were Queens and I was a maid so I’ve been involved with it a long time.

I am also involved with the action medical committee and organising coffee mornings for the Fisherman’s Mission

(Hippodrome). I am going to do a sponsored sky dive

on the 26th of April with my niece. In order to raise money for the Sick Kids Foundation in Edinburgh as many families in Eyemouth have benefited from it.

Wow! How do you feel about that?I’m absolutely terrified!

Spare time?I don’t really have spare time; the committees are a full time job. But I do like watching rugby and going to the theatre.

Favourite show? Les Miserables.

What would your last meal be?Something Italian.

Favourite colour? Red, like my hair!

Where would your ideal holiday be?Mexico, I learned to dive there.

What is your favourite book?The Rhanna series by Christine Marianne Fraser. It’s about a community on a Scottish island; they are so much fun to read. I also love poetry.

Any pets?A rabbit. Her name is Sheldon. From the Big Bang Theory!

Thank you Wendy

FEATURE

{ }I’m doing a sky dive to raise money for the Sick Kids

Foundation

Local People PROFILECatriona Cook’s third interview is with Wendy Lough of Eyemouth

To claim your special offer from businesses opposite, please hand this page or the voucher from it to a member of staff at the business concerned.

GUNSGREEN HOUSEFREE ENTRY to Gunsgreen House for a Child. This coupon entitles the holder to one free child entry to Gunsgreen House. Voucher is valid for one child aged 5-16 with an accompanying full price adult. Voucher can only be used once and must be surrendered on use. Valid until 30 April 2015. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers.www.gunsgreenhouse.org

NUMBER FOUR GALLERY10% OFF any purchase on presentation of this coupon.Offer closes 30th April 2015.Number Four Gallery, St Abbswww.numberfourgallery.co.uk

✃

Discount Vouchers


BHA, in 2013, became part of “Stepping Up to Scrutiny”, a

programme commissioned by the Scottish Government. The programme’s aims are to improve RSL performance and tenants’ understanding and awareness of the scrutiny intentions contained within the Scottish Social Housing Charter and related regulatory framework.

BHA tenants, staff and Board Members decided to establish a Scrutiny Panel (the Panel), as has been previously reported in EB Living Magazine.

Scrutiny allows the monitoring of performance of BHA. It allows tenants to give a perspective on the workings of the Association as well as allowing them to have a say on and improve the services tenants receive as they have a unique and valuable experience of the actual delivery of those services.

It also allows the Panel to work in a manner where everyone has a voice. Everyone is equal.

Energy efficiency was selected by the Panel as their first topic for many reasons, including:• It impacts all tenants so any improve-

ments have potential for widespread impact;

• There has been a lot of press coverage of the difficulties many face in afford-ing their energy bills;

• The Panel was aware of a number of high profile BHA initiatives in energy efficiency;

• There were concerns regarding the number of tenants in Fuel Poverty.

• The Panel used a range of observa-tion, document review and interview techniques to review the practices of BHA in providing assistance to tenants to reduce energy use and costs.

A number of recommendations were made. Overall, the Panel found a wide range of activities and initiatives, both completed and on-going, to make homes more energy efficient. Some of these activities were driven by the need to achieve the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS), whilst others were part of the planned and responsive maintenance programmes.

BHA has been proactive in seeking to research and supply alternative heating systems with trials of a number of different technologies and has undertaken extensive programmes of boiler replacements, window and door replacements, cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation and loft insulation, all of which contribute to the energy efficiency of the homes.

In addition to physical improvements to homes, the technical team were found

to offer a range of face-to-face advisory services to tenants, including operation of heating systems, avoidance of burst pipes and prevention of condensation. They also offer signposting services to external organisations for more energy advice.

While the extent to which these initiatives actually reduce the amount of energy used is dependent upon the behaviour of tenants, the Panel believes, overall, the Association is offering tenants good energy efficient homes and relevant and timely advice on energy efficiency. A number of recommendations were made to BHA to improve assistance and advice offered to tenants to enable them to review their energy supplier and tariffs to find the cheapest and most suitable for their usage patterns and preferred method of payment.

This first piece of work by The Panel has been interesting for those concerned and of benefit to the organisation as a whole. The Panel is looking forward to reviewing the implementation of their recommendations later in February and beginning work on the next scrutiny topic which will look at how BHA communicates with its tenants. l

Stepping Up To Scrutiny

FROM L TO R: JO PAWLEY, CHAIR OF THE SCRUTINY PANEL AND BOARD MEMBER; GEORGE PICKERING, CHAIR OF THE TENANT VOLUNTEERS COMMITTEE; JULIA KEDDIE,STAFF MEMBER; BRIAN WALKER, TENANT VOLUNTEER; JULIA GRAHAM, STAFF MEMBER; AND RODNEY SHORT, TENANT VOLUNTEER.

FEATURE


AS both a reader and a writer, I hate so-called ‘spoilers’ in reviews. I like to be surprised as a book’s plot unfolds, to not know what will happen next. So although I adored Cry Baby (it was one of my favourite reads in 2014) I’m finding it hard to write about. The challenge is to say enough to make you want to read this crime thriller, while not revealing too much of its totally original storyline.

This is David Jackson’s fourth novel featuring New York detective Callum Doyle, but it’s also a departure from the rest of the series. Although Doyle is still a main character, the book’s focus is on young mother Erin Vogel, who wakes to find her baby daughter Georgia has been abducted. As she struggles to take in what has happened, Erin realises she is wearing an earpiece, through which a stranger tells her he has Georgia and will only give her back if Erin carries out a dreadful task: “I want you to kill someone”. Meanwhile, Detective Doyle is working a quiet night shift

when a nameless man is brought in for claiming to have killed his own mother. These two plot-lines intersect eventually, but in a wholly unexpected way.

Cry Baby is a departure for the author who, despite writing convincingly about crime in New York, is a university lecturer in Liverpool. His earlier books have been compared favourably with the work of Harlan Coben and are fast-moving and action-packed, but his latest has a stronger psychological side to it. Erin’s response to the horrific situation she finds herself in makes for an exciting read, but the depiction of the emotional turmoil steering her increasingly desperate behaviour is rarely found in thrillers. This novel works well as a standalone, but after reading it, you’re likely to want read the other Doyle books too.

Janet O’Kane - Available from Amazon as an ebook and a paperback.

Cry Baby by David JacksonI was given this book for Christmas, and my first thought was that it would be rather a depressing book, given the subject matter, but in fact it was quite the reverse.

As the story begins it is not far off Christmas and 40-year-old Marnie Still, newly single and living in London, is telephoned out of the blue by Oliver, a man she has not seen since their teenage years, asking her to fly immediately to join him at the house of their mutual friend Ralph who is dying and wants to see her.

In Ralph’s tiny remote cottage in the Scottish Highlands Marnie is forced to confront the past, a past in which the lives of all three of them are inextricably linked.

As the story weaves seamlessly between the past and the present we learn of the teenage Marnie living with her widowed mother in their house by the sea, and of the momentous events which bring Ralph, and later Oliver, into their lives. Of that last happy, carefree holiday they all spent together before their friendship was violently shattered. Until now...

This book is beautifully written, undeniably sad, poignant, but uplifting and ultimately rewarding. When I got to the end I immediately wanted to turn back to the beginning and start again.

This is the fourth novel by Nicci Gerrard. She also writes thrillers with her husband. Together, they write as Nicci French.

Pat Oldale - Penguin Books, 2009

The Winter House by Nicci Gerrard

IAN McEwan never disappoints and, although quite different to his other novels, this one grabs you from the start.

The main character is Fiona, a High Court Judge and the story mainly centres on one case that takes over her life, that of Adam, a seventeen year old Jehovah’s Witness with terminal leukaemia, who is refusing life saving blood products. Her ultimate ruling will decide whether doctors can go against his wishes in his best interest. She visits him in hospital to see if he is mature enough to make this decision and learns more about the complexity of dealing with the

application of the ‘Children Act’ of the title.

Apart from the story about Adam, we also learn about Fiona’s personal life and, although quite interesting, I didn’t feel it really added to the main plot unless you are interested in her clothes, perfume and her passion for music.

This is quite a short book, but a good read and an insight into legal life and the family dealing with a very difficult and complex situation.

Ann Horan - Published by Vintage

The Children Act by Ian McEwan

We omitted to note that the novel

‘Glencairnie’ by Penny Worton reviewed in the winter issue is

available from Amazon price £7.41.


What kind of problems for farmers have been thrown up by the ‘right to roam’ legislation?

The term ‘right to roam’ has never existed in law. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gives everyone the right of ‘responsible access’. Problems for farmers can arise from this misconception leading to irresponsible access whether, for example, it involves dogs, camping or gates left open.

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code emphasises the requirement for people to take responsibility for their own actions and this includes helping farmers and other land managers to work safely. www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

How do we know where we have access rights? Can we walk through a farmyard, for example, or close to a farmhouse?Access rights are broad and apply both day and night. The emphasis, again, is responsible access and covers most land and inland water including hill land, forest, grassland, field margins, lochs and rivers.

However, access rights do not extend to farmyards. These are working environments and farmers would be concerned about the health and safety of the public, as well as themselves and their employees. An exemption sometimes applies where access to a path or more likely a track is through a farmyard and there is little interference with normal farm work, or if there is an existing right of way.

As with any house the farmhouse would be covered by what is considered curtilage, i.e. the building, garden and surrounding buildings and adjacent areas but not extending to an open field or woodland. These areas do not have access rights.

Gates and fences (sometimes barbed wire or electric) are necessary to keep livestock in but what happens if these create a barrier to walkers? And who is responsible if they are damaged?

Farmers and other land managers are required to manage their

land responsibly for access . As such it is not permissible for a farmer to use a fence, padlocked gate or other means to block a path or track. Walkers and other access users should use a gate, stile or other access points on a walk and avoid where possible climbing a drystane dyke or fence. Damage to fences or gates is unlikely to be caused by responsible access users, but if any damage does occur one would hope that those responsible would make good that damage.

What should dog walkers do to behave ‘responsibly’? And what about dog excrement? Does it pose any danger to other animals?

For farmers the biggest concern to do with public access to their land is dogs and specifically dog fouling. The Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 means it is illegal to leave dog faeces in a public place. This, however, does not include farmland and open fields.

Tapeworm infection passed from dogs to livestock can lead to poor performance in livestock and rejection at the abattoir of parts of an animal carcase.

Another infection passed from dogs to cows is Neospora Caninum. Dog owners have no ability to tell if their dog is infected or not, but one dog can infect umpteen cows. In cows this infection causes abortion and if a beef cow aborts its calf, this results in the loss of annual output of the aborted cow.

I would urge all dog walkers to worm their dogs regularly and carry bags to clear up the dogs faeces.

Responsible dog walking involves keeping one’s dog under close control, sometimes on a leash. A dog walker needs to be observant and be prepared to skirt round livestock especially at lambing time. Care is also required near cattle. It may be difficult to assess whether it is a group of cows and calves, or whether a bull is with the group. If a group of cows acts aggressively towards you let your dog go and find the quickest route out of that field to safety. The dog will probably be able to

FARMING

The term ‘right to roam’ in Scotland is generally understood to cover the rights and responsibilities of those wishing to access the countryside. But how does this affect farmers? EB Living asked East Berwickshire farmer and Chair of the Scottish Borders Access Forum,

William Davidson, about implications for the farming community.

RIGHTRoam?to


FARMING

escape more easily itself.Dog worrying of livestock is another concern of farmers. If a

walker is not confidant of controlling their dog it must be kept on a leash at all times.

Diseases in dog faeces can be transmitted to people from fields of fruit and vegetables. If there is a recognized path or track stick to that route with the dog on a leash, otherwise find an alternative route. www.snh.gov.uk/docs/C233791.pdf

What happens if livestock grazing on open hill ground harm a walker or their dog? Is the farmer liable? What is the best way to avoid difficulties when livestock are in an unfenced area?

Public liability is another area of concern for farmers. In law this is covered by ‘’Occupiers Liability (Scotland) Act 1960”.

The farmer has a duty of care to all persons entering onto his or her premises, irrespective of whether permission has been granted or not. (In England there is a distinction between invited visitors and others).

However, the 1960 Act explicitly excludes occupier liability over willingly accepted risks by visitors. In the event of a mishap while out walking the walker would likely be regarded as willingly accepting the risks associated with this pursuit.

Famers are advised to check their cover with their insurance provider.

Many walks mean driving to a starting point which can be at a field gateway. What advice would you give for safe car parking?Be considerate and do not park your car in a field gateway or access to a building unless specific permission has been given. Many core paths have areas to park, but if not it is your responsibility to find a safe parking area.

Some access routes involve paths, tracks or rights of way which can be waterlogged or otherwise impassable. Who is responsible for their upkeep or restoring proper access?

The farmer is not responsible for the upkeep of paths and tracks. On core paths, rights of way and many promoted routes it is the responsibility of the Scottish Borders Council Access Team

to keep these routes open and free from obstruction and to maintain fixtures such as stiles and bridges. On some of the larger estates especially where there are visitor attractions the estate will undertake maintenance. In other areas local walking groups can get involved. It is up to the access user to asses if the conditions make a particular route passable or not. After very wet weather this might just not be possible until conditions improve.

There seems to be some confusion about whether there is a need for group walks or events to obtain permission to access land. What is your advice.

This depends on the size of the group as the larger the group the more there is a likelihood of there being an impact on farming operations especially during busy times of the year such as lambing, calving or harvest. It would be sensible of the group to discuss their plans with the farmer, including parking of cars or other vehicles. This is even more important if an event is planned which requires the provision of toilets, signs and litter bins for example.

As you can see from this activities like these are permissible, but to do them without consulting the farmer or land owner could constitute irresponsible access. Scottish Natural Heritage have produced a useful document ‘Outdoor events in Scotland: guidance for organisers and land managers’ and can be downloaded from their website. www.snh.gov.uk/publications-data-andresearch/publications/search-the-catalogue-detail/?id-1752

It has been claimed that legislation is biased towards those wanting access to the detriment of farmers. What is your view?

The legislation is definitely biased towards access seekers, but that in itself is not detrimental to farmers because before the Land Reform Act there was no access code in place. Now due to the Act there is specific guidance for access users and the responsibilities expected of them when in the countryside. l

Public meetings of the Scottish Borders Access Forum are advertised in the local press and through walking groups/organisations.

{ }For farmers the biggest concern to do with public access is dogs

© DESIGNED BY VECTOR OPEN STOCK


HOMES & GARDENS

Beautiful Buddleja Bushes for Butterflies!

A s you may have already guessed, I try to attract as much wildlife into my garden as possible. Whether working

or relaxing in my garden, birdsong and the buzz of flying beasties just add to my enjoyment, so when I am choosing new shrubs I try to choose something we can all enjoy!

With spring just around the corner this is the perfect time to think about planting a Buddleja. Commonly known as the butterfly bush, in summer, this shrub will produce long flowering ‘tails’ and be covered in butterflies and bees, at-tracted by its honey scented nectar.

Please don’t let the much maligned purple ‘Buddleja davidii’ which self seeds on wasteland put you off planting this shrub. They are tough plants that can stand neglect but if you do look after them they will reward you and there are so many different varieties to choose from. Planted after the frosts are over, in a sunny position, at the back of a border, Buddlejas make a great backdrop for smaller plants. Regular dead heading during the summer will extend the flowering time and regular pruning will keep them compact and give you bigger flowers up to 45 cm (18 inches) long. Feed with a good handful of blood, fish and bone fertilizer in spring and you will have a lovely, healthy plant to enjoy.

I prune my Buddlejas twice each year, firstly in autumn, when the last flowers are over; I cut them down by about a third. Buddleja branches can be quite brittle by the end of the season and this prevents wind damage during the winter. In milder winters this shrub will retain most of its leaves and will give your garden some ‘evergreen’ interest. Secondly, I prune again in March or April, this time cutting them back until they are 60-90cm (2-3 feet) high. This sounds drastic (it will also look extreme when you have finished!) but cut back this way they do not get overgrown and you will have flowers that you can see, touch, smell and enjoy.

Watch out for:- • Buddleja ‘Lochinch’ which has orange-eyed, violet blue

scented flower spikes and grey-green pointed leaves.• Buddleja ‘Lindleyana’ has delicate mauve flowers at the

end of delicate weeping stems. • Buddleja ‘Buzz’ series ( in various colours) are dwarf plants

which are great for container planting. l

WRITTEN BY SUE BOLTON

P ostmen and postwomen make a valuable contribution to our local

communities often doing so much more than deliver letters and parcels. In this issue we feature one postwoman who makes a difference on her round.

A postwoman for twenty-one years, June McDonald has worked out of Duns for the past eight years covering the rural area of Greenlaw and Mersington.

June is a horse lover with her own horse and she has built a great rapport with all the owners of horses on her round. Clearly she has built a similar rapport with the dogs she encounters, so much so that, on one occasion when she returned to her van, a border collie was sitting on the passenger seat on top of mail awaiting delivery. History doesn’t relate, however,

whether the collie completed the deliveries satisfactorily.

As a camper van aficionado, June travels the length and breadth of Scotland in her old camper van which not only gives her empathy with other camper van owners but also leads to offering help to customers stranded with a puncture. Cheerfully she will stop and help them change the flat tyre.

Indeed, there are few lengths to which June will not go to help out. On one memorable occasion in Prestonpans (where she worked before transferring to Duns) a little girl came running out of a house screaming. On learning that the little girl’s granny had died

overnight while sitting in the chair, June telephoned the police while also trying to comfort the little girl. She then found a safe house in the

neighbourhood for the child to stay until her family arrived.

June was delighted to receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers from the deceased lady’s family for her help in the emergency.

Weather issues, of course, go with the job. If June gets stuck in the snow – a not uncommon event during harsh winters on a rural round – she calls out local farmers to come to her rescue and makes every attempt to ensure that her customers get their mail delivered to them. l

Local Hero - DELIVERING TO COMMUNITIES

For your Free Property Consultation and Valuation please call our property manageron 018907 51100 or visit us at www.doughtys.co.uk and complete the Contact Form.

Tel: 01890 751 100Email: [email protected]: www.doughtys.co.uk

Offices: 3 & 7 Church Street, Eyemouth TD14 5DH

Property Sales

Conveyancing

Wills & Executries

SBP Centre, 26 High Street, Eyemouth, Berwickshire TD14 5EUt. 018907 98493 e. [email protected] w. sbpcentre.co.uk

We have tenants looking for your property

Landlords WantedLettings & Property

Management

Comprehensive Range of Rental Services Available

Straightfoward & Uncomplicated Local Service

Complete Letting Compliance for Total Peace of Mind

Full Tenancy Management or Lease Documents Only

Fixed Price £95,0002a Paxton Terrace, Eyemouth

Sitting Room & Dining Room

Breakfasting Kitchen

2 Bedrooms

Attic Space to Develop

Double Glazing & G.C.H.

Town Centre Location

Ideal

Starter

Home

EPC Rating - D

We are delighted to offer for sale this spacious maisonette which is situated in a quiet part of Eyemouth, conveniently located a few minutes away from shops and other local amenities. The property accommodation comprises of hallway, sitting room, dining room, bathroom, one double bedroom and a single bedroom. There is also an attic room which could be used for a storage facility or, given the proper local authority consents, could even be converted into another double bedroom with en-suite shower room. The property benefits from gas central heating and has double glazing throughout. The property also has two stone built sheds to the front of the flat which could be used as a storage area. Viewing is recommended to fully appreciate this property’s character and potential.

Guide Price £110,0008 Priors Walk, Coldingham

Sitting Room & Dining Area

Large Kitchen

3 Bedrooms

Shower Room & Cloak Room

Double Glazing

Desirable Village Location

Perfe

ct

Family

Home

EPC Rating - E

Set in the picturesque and desirable village of Coldingham this lovely three bedroom property is a wonderful prospect for buyers wanting a family home with superb local amenities and a welcoming, village community. The accommodation, set over two floors, comprises of sun porch, hallway, large sitting room with dining area, fitted kitchen, cloak room, landing, two spacious double bedrooms, further smaller double bedroom and shower room. Outside there are well maintained, enclosed gardens to the front and rear. There is double glazing throughout, great cupboard space and the property also benefits from ‘economy 7’ electric central heating. Presented in walk-in condition, 8 Priors Walk will be best suited to a growing family, looking for a place to ‘set down roots’. Alternatively, the property would also be a great buy-to-let investment opportunity. Viewing is highly recommended.

O�ers in the region of £95,0003 Home Street, Eyemouth

Sitting Room & Dining Area

Kitchen

2 Bedrooms

Large Basement Room

Modern Gas Central Heating

Central Location

Buy2L

et

Opportu

nity

EPC Rating - D

Set in the heart of Eyemouth town centre and harbour, we are delighted to present this two bedroom ground floor apartment. Within easy walking distance to the shops, schools and local amenities, 3 Home Street would be a fantastic opportunity for a first time buyer or even as a retirement property. It would also be an excellent buy-to-let investment, which it is currently being utilised as. The accommodation comprises of an entrance vestibule, sitting room with dining area, lower recreation room, hallway, kitchen, double bedroom, further large single bedroom and bathroom. The property has gas central heating and also benefits from a communal courtyard with a shared drying area as well as a detached single garage at the rear of the property. Viewing recommended to appreciate its full potential.

Guide Price £128,0009 Armatage Street, Eyemouth

Sitting Room

Dining Kitchen

3 Bedrooms

Family Bathroom & WC


Enclosed Back Garden

A Grea

t

Holiday

Home

EPC Rating - E

This is a charming mid-terrace Town House located in Eyemouth town centre which is ideally suited as a holiday home, holiday let or buy-to-let investment opportunity. The spacious accommoda-tion, set over three floors, comprises of Sitting Room with newly fitted gas fire, Modern Dining Kitchen, Large Under-Stair Cupboard, Cloakroom, Large Master Bedroom, Further Two Bedrooms, Family Bathroom. The property benefits from double glazing throughout and gas central heating, and has been refurbished to a high standard finished with a tasteful colour scheme throughout. Outside to the rear is an enclosed garden. This is a fantastic property, which is priced at £22,000 below the Home Report Valuation, and viewing is highly recommended to appreciate its full potential.

Guide Price £240,000Swan House, Reston

Sitting Room & Lounge

Large Kitchen & Dining Room

5 Bedrooms

Bathroom and Shower Room


Garden & O� Road Parking

Beauti

ful

Family

Home

EPC Rating - E

Located in the beautiful village of Reston, Swan House is a property that would provide a growing family a superb, spacious home with character and charm throughout. With a ground floor double bedroom, second reception room and shower room, there is also the potential for three family generations to live comfortably under the one roof. The ground floor accommodation comprises of hallway, sitting room, open plan kitchen and dining room, utility room, shower room, lounge with multi-fuel stove and double bedroom. The first floor splits into three levels with three double bedrooms, one single bedroom and family bathroom. Outside, the enclosed garden has several areas for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors, while an adjoining

benefits from gas fired central heating and double glazing throughout.

Fixed Price of £135,00057 High Street, Eyemouth

Sitting Room

Kitchen with Dining Area

4 Bedrooms

Family Bathroom & Shower

Modern Gas Central Heating

Town Centre Location

Holiday

Home or R

ental

EPC Rating - D

This delightful 4 bedroom town house set in the heart of Eyemouth town centre offers a wonderful opportunity to purchase a property which has been lovingly updated and tastefully decorated throughout. The spacious accommodation is spread over three floors & comprises of entrance hallway, sitting room with living flame gas fire, modern fitted kitchen with dining area, ground floor WC, two first floor bedrooms, newly fitted bathroom, separate shower and two further bedrooms on the second floor. The modest enclosed garden, accessed from the kitchen, provides a private low-maintenance space to entertain or relax, while the top floor offers partial views of Eyemouth beach. A new efficient gas central heating system has been recently installed and the property also benefits from double glazing. Bayview is currently used as a private holiday home and would be ideal for providing holiday rental accommodation all year round.

NEWWEBSITE


OPEN 7 DAYS 01361 882277 #3 Station Rd, Duns, TD11 3EL www.PearsonsOfDuns.co.uk

* Free, No Obligation, Estimate Available.*

Showroom with over 30 Display Models. Charnwood (Premier Dealers) Stovax, Aarrow and

much much more. Newman Fireplaces. Bespoke Wood Beams. Fireside Accessories. Coal & Log Suppliers.

One Stop Stove Shop Full Installation Service Now Available

Or Supply Only & Install Only.

HOMES & GARDENS

Ideal Beds (just off the A1), Ramparts Business Park, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1UN Tel 01289 332646

Did you sleep well last night?Wake up feeling refreshed?

At Ideal Beds we have the bed you’ve been promising yourself. Set aside some ti me and come in to see us.

M ark and Sally Bailey are founders of destination home-ware store Baileys Home & Garden which celebrates an

interiors style variously described as ‘undecorating’ or ‘rough luxe’. The essence of this look is lived-in charm where the whole works because the parts comprise all those beautiful, treasured, idiosyncratic pieces which make a house a home.

Just as the term implies, ‘rough luxe’ is in part rough and in part luxurious so elements might include hewn stone or brick walls adorned with ornately framed artworks or worn flagstone floors teamed with deep pile rugs. And while modern pieces can be accommodated in the space, it is the juxtapositioning of these with vintage fabrics, handmade items and worn colours that makes the style work so well.

Perfect for family living since imperfections only add to the personality of the space, rough luxe does call for careful planning. This is not a style simply thrown together with odd bits and pieces. There is an underlying discipline to achieving the look as Mark and Sally’s latest book Imperfect Home visually demonstrates. Their take on rough luxe has evolved over twenty five years and has been adopted by some of the top interior designers and decorators including Ralph Lauren, Conran and Habitat. l

To win a copy of Imperfect Home by Mark & Sally Bailey simply answer the following question:

FOR HOW MANY YEARS HAVE MARK AND SALLY BEEN EVOLVING THEIR STYLE?Submit your answer together with your name, address and telephone number by email to [email protected] or by post to Birchfield House, Eyemouth, TD14 5LS. Please clearly mark your entry Interiors Competition 10.

Closing date 30 April 2015.

The winner will be chosen and notified after the closing date. The editor’s decision is final and no cash alternative is available. Please indicate on your entry if you would prefer not to receive information from EB Living or its partners.

WIN!

WRITTEN BY PAT ELLIOTT

Rough Luxe


S tatus symbol or not, the popularity of wood-burning stoves is unsurprising. After all, who wouldn’t want

a source of heat that’s economical, sustainable and climate-friendly? Moreover, if done well, the installation of a stove will enhance your home, providing a focal point to be enjoyed for years to come.

John O’Kane has been fitting stoves across the Borders, East Lothian and North Northumberland since before they became fashionable. He’s registered with HETAS, the official body that approves solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels and services, so his customers know their installations are carried out properly. John is also a stonemason, which is reflected in his company’s name: Borders Fire and Stone. This means he creates bespoke fireplaces that suit homeowners’ individual tastes as well as accommodating their choice of stove.

As John explains, ‘I’ve fitted hundreds of stoves and can honestly say that no two installations have ever been exactly the same. We work with each customer to create an original design for them. Some people want a plain fireplace with perhaps just a wooden shelf above, while others decide to have a surround fashioned from stone, which can be as ornate or simple as they wish. Sometimes, in older properties, a current fireplace will be hiding an older

one. We recently discovered, behind a 1980s fireplace, a nineteenth-century stone inglenook which we were able to

restore. The customer was delighted.’Thanks to modern technology, you don’t even need an existing chimney to stay warm with a woodburning stove. An insulated steel flue - known as a twin-wall flue – remains cool on its exterior so it can safely run from a free-standing stove and pass through a wall or ceiling to the outside of the property. John says, ‘Freestanding stoves have become very popular, especially in more modern homes, but they suit most settings. And again customers can stamp their own individuality on them, with their choice of hearth and tiles.’

Want to find out how a wood-burning stove would suit your home? For more information and to arrange a free site visit, go to www.bordersfireandstone.co.uk, email [email protected] or telephone 01361 884440. l

According to a recent survey, one of the fifty signs of being successful is owning a wood-burning stove.

How are you keepingCosy this Year?

HOMES & GARDENS

Until the end of April 2015, Borders Fire and Stone is offering a FREE LOG MOISTURE METER AND STOVE THERMOMETER to anyone who books a stove installation and mentions EB Living.

special offer

© TARA GREY PHOTOGRAPHY


Eyemouth Customs Warehouse 28 July 1780

LOCAL HISTORY

WRITTEN BY: DEREK JANES

I n the history of smuggling around Eyemouth there was relatively little violence – what there was seems to have been calculated to be just enough to allow the customs officers to give up without their pride being hurt! Daniel

Moncur, for example, on one occasion was waylaid by smugglers and stripped of his clothing, apart from his trousers…and on another occasion, when he and a colleague were searching a ship in the Harbour at Eyemouth, a crowd gathered and pelted them with stones and lumps of wood.

One major incident occurred on 28th July 1780, when between 11 and 12 o’clock of the night thirty armed smugglers, after landing out of a boat, broke open the King’s Warehouse, and carried off 23 whole and 34 half ankers of spirits and 6 Bags of Tea which had been seized the 24th and 28th of last month by the Tidesmen at Eymouth and Coldingham.

Some witnesses described what they saw the Witnesses declare the party was disguised: that Peter Nairne however declared that by

his Size, Voice & Shape, he knew James Crawford to be one of the Rioters tho his face was blacked.

The Customs further reported that most of the Goods lodged in the Warehouse had belonged to or been landed by Charles Swanston son of James Swanston at Northfield, and that many of the Witnesses declare that Charles Swanston, his Brother Robert & James Crauford at Coldinghame went aboard the Smuggling Cutter the 28th July Last, and were not seen to come on Shore that Day.

It likewise appearing that some Days after the Riot, smuggled goods were carried away from St Abbs Head by the direction of Charles Swanston, which probably were part of the Goods that had been taken out of the Customhouse Warehouse, and it being said that Thos. Martin, Thomas Richardson, James Colvill and John Colin were employed by Swanston to carry off and secrete the Goods, they are to be examined and particularly if they knew that these Goods were part of those that had been so taken out of the Warehouse.

THE RAID ON


Earlier on the 28th July, before the raid on the Customs Warehouse in Eyemouth, the Lyells of Greystonelees used a Mrs Gibson, probably related to the Gibsons of Fairneyside, a notorious smuggling family, to support their alibi, following an incident at Greystonelees, their farm on the edge of Burnmouth, reported by the customs:

five Ankers of Spirits were likewise seized by them among the corns of George Lyell Tennant in Graystonlies in presence of him and Christopher his son, the Smuggling Cutter at that time lying off shore in their sight – when the son Christopher at that time threatened the officers with getting twenty or thirty of the Smugglers to land and take back the goods again out of the Warehouse and in fact a boat from the Smuggler having soon after landed and convened with the Lyells, the Crew fired immediately after the Officers , and the Warehouse was also broke open that night

George and Christopher Lyell are to be examined on Oath – and Mrs Gibson of Tweedmouth is to be enquired at, if she can remember of Christopher Lyells being at her house, as he says.

The authorities sought to identify those who they believed to be involved, some of whom had names still familiar in Eyemouth today:

Five other persons intended to have been examined did not appear, vizt. Andrew Dougal Fisherman in Eymouth, Jean Brown

servant to Alexr. Robertson, James Colin Fisherman at Coldingham, Elizabeth Johnston wife to William Dunse and Margaret Johnston wife to Hugh Aitchison at Geary’s Loch.

The customs had employed Eyemouth lawyer David Renton to take the statements from the witnesses – Renton later lived at Greystonelees and seems to have been the Lyells’ lawyer – and complained at the costs incurred, a total of £4.10.0. They were particularly upset by his bill of £1.10.0 for lunch – probably around £150.00 in current terms! Renton had also allowed the smugglers’ solicitor to be present – which does show how professional the smugglers were, in that they had engaged a lawyer.

The customs did not give up, as in early 1781 they paid the expenses of Mr Armstrong in examining James Colvin, belonging to the Queen Ann Armed Ship at Shields relative to his having been concerned in breaking open the King’s Warehouse at Eymouth.

There is no record of what happened to Colvin, but in 1784 the customs reported having received an anonymous Information against James Drew said to be at present lurking at Aberdeen, and to be the Person that headed the Gang of Smugglers who broke into the King’s Warehouse at Eymouth…

Despite placing an advertisement in the papers asking the informant to come forward, no progress seems to have been made.

This is the last record of the Raid, as a consequence of which there is no sign of anyone having been penalised. l

LOCAL HISTORY

LINKIM SHORE NEAR EYEMOUTH ON THE SMUGGLERS TRAIL ©SCOTLANDINAWEEK.COM.JPG

Gunsgreen House in Eyemouth is a house that was built in the 18th century from the profits of smuggling. Smugglers were active right up and down the Berwickshire coast. Discover the new Smugglers Trail which follows much of the existing Berwickshire Coastal Path and stretches from Burnmouth to Cove including the dramatic St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve.

Gunsgreen House is also the gateway and interpretation centre for the Smugglers Trail. East or west from the House, walkers can follow a well-marked footpath with information boards (to be in place during the 2015 season) that point out the locations of some of the main smuggling incidents.

Research on smuggling in Berwickshire in the 18th century has unearthed many dramatic true accounts on this beautiful and unspoilt coastline. The free traders were interested in anything that was heavily taxed and sometimes in short supply. The range of goods therefore included wines and spirits such as rum, gin, brandy, Madeira as well as some luxury items like Dutch linen, hair powder, combs and hand mirrors, plus some surprising materials: for example, oranges and lemons, playing cards and French window panes! Bales of tobacco, tea in bulk, plus silks and lace were also commonly smuggled.

The key was to take in goods that were luxury items and hence expensive. These found a ready market amongst ‘consumers’ who did not ask too many questions! Many Scots justified ‘free-trading’ (i.e.: smuggling) almost as a patriotic duty!

The new trail gives visitors a real sense of what life was like over 200 years ago and a new way to experience the Berwickshire coast.

For more information: www.gunsgreenhouse.org/smugglers-trail/


FASHION

WIN!

East Berwickshire artist Tamsin Thomson has always loved to paint for fun but from humble beginnings both her style and reputation have flourished into a wonderfully artistic business. Growing up on her family farm at Ferneycastle near Reston where she is now based, inspired Tamsin’s love for capturing all manner of countryside wildlife, from dogs and ducks to goats and geese. She has recently branched out and added some new products to her range in the form of mugs, canvas shopper bags and cards, all displaying her wonderful artwork.

You can catch Tamsin locally at The Scottish Borders Art Fair at Springwood Park, Kelso in March, where she will have on sale a large selection of original paintings.

Visit her website at www.tamsinthomson.co.uk or search for “Tamsin Thomson Art” on Facebook for more information.

To win this lovely prize simply answer the following question:

Name ONE of Tamsin’s new products which she has recently added to her range.

WIN A PACK OF 16 CARDS PRINTED WITH SELECTION OF TAMSIN THOMSON’S ORIGINAL ARTWORKArtful Countryside Delights

Submit your answer together with your name, address and telephone number by email to [email protected] or by post to Birchfield House, Eyemouth, TD14 5LS. Please clearly mark your entry TT Art Competition 10.Closing date 30 April 2015.


Susie Bee CollectionsF irst time mother and busy bee

Susie Hume developed her love for creative sewing during her pregnancy where she embarked upon a quilting project for her son’s nursery. After realising her skills with a sewing machine, Susie set up her small cottage business from home a little over a year ago which has now flourished into a full time job.

Specialising in creating unique and personalised patchwork quilts, cushions and teddy bears using memorable clothing and other special material items, Susie has lovingly breathed (and painstakingly stitched!) a second life into wedding dresses, decorative bunting from the big day, a child’s first clothes and outgrown school uniforms as well as clothes from a love one who has passed.

For more information and examples of Susie’s work please visit www.susiebee.co.uk, Facebook: Susie Bee Collections

G reen fingered Louise Rennie bit the flowered bullet and set up her own

business “Wild Bunch” in the summer of 2014 from a small studio on her home farm in the Scottish Borders. After taking a course in basic wiring and floral foam five years ago, Louise soon realised her talents lay in floral art. Many a buttonhole and funeral wreath later, followed by a few weddings, Louise is now flying solo.

The name “Wild Bunch” very much reflects Louise’s free spirited creative style - a fan of the “just picked” look, allowing the natural shape and colours of the flowers to complement one another. Louise is fortunate enough to have both the skill and space to grow much of her own foliage at home on the farm to add to her bouquets and arrangements. Favouring native British flowers which are pollinator friendly to be kind to Scotland’s bee population gives Wild Bunch a unique eco-friendly and home grown vibe.

Louise can make up flowers for any occasion and continues to expand both her portfolio and stock. [email protected] 07712 476894.

WRITTEN BY: MELANIE MILLER

Wild Bunch – FANTASTIC FLOWERS


LOCAL HISTORY

T he cliff top walk north of St Abb’s Head takes in the spectacular coastal

scenery of East Berwickshire. Many walkers will see an odd looking

mast on the cliff top. Looking inland, there is another mast not far away. The mast is heavily stayed to counter the gales of winter and although faded, is painted white. After a while of walking, the explorer will see another mast, the same type, close to the cliff top. The curious will look at a map to see if the masts are marked and will see that they are indicated to be the ‘Admiralty Measured Mile’.

The word Admiralty is the clue to their existence. This is not a land measurement – it marks a nautical mile. When the two masts at each end of the distance are aligned by an observer on a vessel at sea, they show the start and end of a surveyed

distance. It was impossible until recently to mark a nautical mile accurately in any other way. Buoys are capable of being moved by time and tide, or to disappear entirely after bad weather, and mooring a vessel at the start and end of the mile was costly, and involved an extended faff to check the navigation and position the vessel accurately.

The measured mile existed for a number of reasons. Primarily, it was a way of accurately determining the speed of a ship. A vessel would carry out a series of passes at set engine revolutions, and that could be averaged out to provide a “speedometer” reading for the ship. Rather more excitingly, a new ship on trials could prove her maximum speed.

There is in existence a photograph of the new RMS Mauretania passing St Abbs Lighthouse on her proving trials,

in September 1907. She worked up to a speed over 25 knots, something that would more than satisfy the publicity agents for Cunard. In matters of strategic power, it was important that Royal Navy warships should travel faster than the potential opposition, and nothing was better calculated to spread that message than a really fast set of trials in the public view.

Of course, with the advent of satellite navigation, the need for a measured mile has waned. The masts are now a curiosity, although quite capable of being used as navigation aids. And, of course, they are worth the walk on a fine day as you look out across the patch of sea where great machines once showed their metal.

Mauretania passed the posts again, under tow, in July 1935. She was on her way to be scrapped. l

T he sad story of Margaret, Lady Billie, mother of Patrick Home

(for whom Paxton House was built), takes place at her home, Linthill on the outskirts of Eyemouth. She was a feisty woman, administrating the family estates herself while her eldest son was abroad.

One August evening in 1751, she retired to her room where the rent money, collected that day, was safely locked in her desk, with the key beside her on the night-stand. On this occasion, Norman Ross, her butler, was hiding amongst the drapes. When he thought she was asleep he crept out and reached for the keys, but Margaret was awake and screamed. He took the knife, left from supper, and slit her throat. She kicked the blade from his hand, so then he clawed at her neck with his fingers. She slumped back on her pillows and he went to unlock the desk.

By this time her children and the servants, woken by the commotion, had

reached the bedroom door. As it opened the draught blew out the candle and Ross was able to escape through the window, making off into the cornfields, without his shoes which he had left, hidden under the bed, so he could creep about the room. The Militia was turned out to search for him and eventually he was found, hiding, nearby.

He was taken to Edinburgh where he was tried, found guilty and hanged. After he was dead his corpse was tarred and placed in a metal, man-shaped cage, the last person in Scotland to be hung in

chains. His right hand, the one that had committed the terrible deed, had been cut off and was pinned to the gallows above him with the knife he had used. The bodies were displayed, close to where John Lewis stands today, as a warning to others. His was there for two years, until there were complaints from the locals about the mess it was making!

The warning wasn’t heeded by everyone! One night a local drunkard sliced a piece from Ross’s leg, taking it home to fry, much to the horror of his wife. An argument ensued and he murdered her, ending up swinging from a gibbet himself.

Poor Margaret took three days to die. The wound had been stuffed with a handkerchief and the gash in her neck sewn up. She was still able to talk to her children, giving a full account of what had happened. Eventually, time came for her to be buried at Bonkyl, miles away from her family home. The funeral cortege set out on its long, slow journey but the coffin had been forgotten and it had to turn back to collect Lady Billie! l

The Measured Mile WRITTEN BY BRIAN PAYNE

The Butler Did It: The Story of Lady BillieThe second in a series about the people associated with Paxton House.

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM


Back in 1972, on retirement from the London Ambulance Service, Richard Perryman senior and his wife moved to

Eyemouth where they had spent many happy family holidays. At the same time, son Richard left the army, joined his parents and he and his father set up a taxi business. A little later, Richard Senior acquired his dream Jaguar and expanded into private and wedding car hire.

‘We all used to spend Saturday mornings,’ recalls Roddy, ‘cleaning and preparing the wedding cars, making sure everything was perfect for the bridal party.’

Meanwhile, building on a personal mantra that people should want to travel and not just have to travel - and meeting a growing local demand - Richard Junior and his father had begun to use small minibuses to operate a local transport

service. In 1981 Richard Senior suffered a broken hip and retired from the business passing the reins to son Richard. By 1986 space at their Eyemouth base

having become tight, Richard junior and his wife Linda moved the family and the business to Burnmouth where the garden became a busy little bus depot and Perryman’s buses consolidated as a growing business.

Not until the turn of the century – by which time Perryman routes had

extended to include the Berwick to St Abbs and Berwick to Edinburgh services previously run by Cross Country Connections – did the bus depot finally leave Burnmouth for a state of the art depot in Berwick. And when Arriva pulled out of Berwick, Richard seized the opportunity to extend Perryman routes yet further.

The company and its staff not only make journeys pleasant, safe and comfortable but timetable updates are provided regularly (especially during harsh winters when Roddy himself gave hourly updates via local radio).

Of course there are sometimes challenges in keeping services running but Roddy is a firm believer in keeping customers informed. ‘Social media is invaluable for keeping in touch,’ he says, ‘but we manage to keep buses running even when, for example, a driver calls in

Over forty years Perryman’s bus company has grown from a two man taxi service based in Eyemouth to a forty-five fleet award-winning bus operator employing eighty people across depots in Berwick

and St Boswells. But this is still very much a family business Roddy Perryman tells EB Living.

{ }People should want to travel, not just

have to travel

ROUTE TO

SUCCESSWRITTEN BY: PAT ELLIOTT

FEATURE


sick. There’s usually someone willing to step in.’ And the provision of free text alerts to customers’ mobiles ensures they are notified of any disruption to services.

Perryman’s are also immensely supportive of local highlights and events, donating transport to, for example, Eyemouth’s Herring Queen Festival. And Perryman’s route to Holy Island across the causeway must be the only one in the UK dependent on tide tables which makes this service unique and highly popular with visitors.

Day tours and excursions have continued to be added to the Perryman programme together with a number of new buses and in 2011, on the heels of a couple of local awards, came national recognition of their success with the award by industry publication Route One for best small bus operator in the UK. Further accolades have been awarded since together with approved membership of the BUSK scheme defining safety measures for school children.

After an apprenticeship as a joiner,

son Roddy joined the company. He is currently Operations Manager working alongside his parents and with the occasional help of brother John and sister Amy. He attributes to their ever-growing

success the loyalty and team spirit of Perryman’s eighty employees.

There can be no question that Perryman’s demonstrates the route to success. l

FEATURE

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM


News from St Abb’s Head National Nature ReserveWRITTEN BY: LIZA COLE

PHO

TOG

RA

PH ©

LIZ

A C

OLE

/NAT

ION

AL

TRU

ST F

OR

SC

OT

LAN

D

M arch and April is when things re-ally start to get going at the Head

after the quiet winter months. By March all our seabirds are gathering closer inshore after a winter further out to sea. They can be seen either in large rafts on the sea, or coming up onto the cliffs to re-establish pair bonds and secure a nest site. Re-colonising the cliffs is a tentative affair at first, with only sporadic visits, but by the end of March or the start of April the shags will have laid their eggs and by the end of April or the start of May the guillemots will have joined them and just about all the other species will be settled down on the cliffs too, and the breeding season has really begun!

March is when we see the first of our summer migrants returning from Africa. Wheatears are the first to arrive about the third week of the month, closely followed by sand martins and swallows. Before long the leafless trees around the Mire Loch will be full of twittering birds and you never know what might show up! Beneath these trees you will see the splashes of colour of primroses, dog violets and lesser celandine, making the most of the sunlight reaching the ground before the leaves grow. Also an early

flowerer is Blackthorn, which flowers before it grows leaves. We don’t have much of this on the reserve, but in April the few that we do have around the Mire Loch can put on a great display (pictured) – the flowers are exquisite if you take the time to look closely.

On the loch itself the wildfowl, including mute swans, coot, moorhen and little grebe, are all settling down to breed. All sorts of behaviour can be witnessed from courtship and fighting over mates and/or territories, to nest building and egg laying. In fact, before April is finished there will be some young swimming about the loch too!

With the wildlife season starting, and the weather getting warmer, we tend to see more human visitors too; it’s great to see more folk out and about enjoying the reserve. Hopefully their visits will

be improved by the work that we have carried out on the footpaths over the winter months, and those that are first time visitors will be able to find their way around more easily due to our improved signage and waymarking of the footpaths.

This year we have a new Seasonal Ranger to help me out during the season. Her name is Lizy and she has been volunteering for us over the winter months so she knows the reserve pretty well already, which is a real bonus. We will also have a new Assistant Ranger, at the time of writing the position has just been advertised, so we will have to wait and see who we get this year! If you see any of us out on the reserve (look out for the NTS logo) then please do say hello and feel free to ask questions if you have any. l

If you would like to keep up to date with go-ings on, check out our website http://www.nts.org.uk , our blog http://stabbsrangers.blogspot.co.uk/ or our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/StabbsHeadNational-NatureReserve . If you would like to get involved, or would like a guided walk or a talk about the Reserve, please give us a ring on (018907) 71443.

{ }Flowers around the Mire Loch put on

a great display

NATURE


NATURE

I feel sure that East Berwickshire is not exceptional in this respect but some

breathtaking cloud formations appear from time to time that deserve a long look.

What follows, a brief encounter (in the sense of high speed with me gazing upwards) jogged my memory of clouds encountered…

It was on a gloomy day in August that good sense won; I put down my fishing rod and eyed the huge Cumulus clouds slowly sweeping over the Lammermuir tops resonating to thunder. Having found a dry place to sit and with fish activity increasing as the weather worsened, a flight of geese followed by ducks came down the river veering off at the last minute. Great to see, but, next – wow - a wing with a central head appeared, coming straight at me. It got larger; piercing eyes and a v shaped beak. I was its target and it was getting bigger and closer. Transfixed I swear time slowed down. Then I was on my back watching a falcon vanish into the distance, so close that I felt the wind rush of it passing. Now I have never seen a peregrine close up but this bird had all the characteristics, only far too fast for me to ID East

Lothian’s emblem conclusively. Well, now I’m looking upwards at a

gap in the Cumulus congestus clouds, those with the ominous shadowy base producing brief heavy rain showers, (they develop from Cumulus – fair weather clouds – but need unstable air to do so) to reveal breathtaking Cumulonimbus in the far distance from which the thunder and lightning would be coming. These have a summit made up of ice crystals marking a boundary layer in the atmosphere some 8 miles up where temperature no longer falls with altitude, and may even rise. As the rain got heavier I walked back to the car and recall that the previous week I was treated to a sky full of hooked and streaked Cirrus clouds which by sunset had morphed to Cirrostratus producing a wonderful halo around the sun. But trumping these was the Cirrostratus fibratus seen earlier in the year, creating a herring bone effect over the entire sky, probably produced by differing wind directions in the atmospheric layers.

Look up, air is a fluid, it is dynamic creating the most amazing effects for us to appreciate. No two clouds are ever the same so go and spot some. l

{ }I eyed the huge Cumulus clouds

sweeping over the Lammermuir tops

CloudsWRITTEN BY: JOHN CAMPBELL

© PHOTOGRAPHS: SARA MAGHINI

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM


FOOD & DRINK

Grilled Rack of Lamb with Ratatouille Serves 4

Lamb Ingredients:• 1 Lamb rack with 8-10 ribs

(french trimmed)• 4 tbsp Olive oil• ½ Head of Garlic

(crushed or minced)• Salt• Freshly ground black pepper

Ratatouille Ingredients:• 4 large ripe Tomatoes• 1 large Aubergine

(cut into 2cm cubes)• 2 Red peppers (cut into 2cm squares)• 2 Red onions (chopped)• 3 courgettes (cut into 3cm dice)• 6 Garlic cloves• ½ head of Garlic• 6 sprigs of fresh thyme• 2 bay leaves• 3 sprigs of Rosemary• 6 sage leaves• 1tbsp Balsamic vinegar• Extra virgin Olive oil• Water• Salt & Pepper• 2tbsp caster sugar

1. Make a marinade for the lamb rack by mixing 4 tbsp of olive oil, ½ head of garlic and a generous amount of salt and pepper to taste, marinade the lamb cover it with cling film and leave overnight in the fridge.

2. To start the ratatouille, blanch the tomatoes for a few seconds in boiling salted water to take the skin off then plunge the tomatoes in cold water, cut into quarters, remove the core and pulp with a small sharp knife.

3. Place the tomato flesh in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper and 1 tbsp of caster sugar & stir well.

4. Sauté the cubes of Aubergine in a pan with olive oil, 3 chopped cloves of Garlic, Sage leaves, salt and pepper. Stop cooking when tender, and cover with a lid.

5. Cook pepper over a medium heat in a sauté pan with the chopped Onions, Balsamic vinegar, a dash of water, 1 tbsp of Caster sugar, 2 tbsp of Olive oil, Rosemary, salt & Pepper.

6. Once suitably sautéed, remove from the heat and allow to cool in the pan with a lid on.

7. Dice the courgettes into 1cm cubes and sauté in a pan with 3 cloves of chopped Garlic, 2tbsp Olive oil, 5 sprigs of chopped Thyme, cook gently until coloured and soft, allow to cool in a pan with a lid on.

8. To cook the lamb, remove the lamb

from the marinade, preheat the oven to 180C/ gas mark 4.

9. On a hot griddle pan place the lamb

skin side down and seal until it starts to crisp, grill on all sides before placing the lamb on a roasting tray covering with the marinade.

10. Finish in the oven for about 15 minutes to get a medium finish, strain the pan juices and set aside the lamb to rest for 5 minutes.

11. Combine all of the Ratatouille

ingredients in a large sauce pan and reheat gently until warm.

12. Place the Ratatouille onto plates, carve the lamb into cutlets and place on the Ratatouille then drizzle with pan juices. l

Allanton Inn Recipe


FOOD & DRINK

Ayton

Berwickshire TD14 5QX

Cakes by Cathie Customised wedding cakes, celebration cakes and sugarcraft decorations for all your special

occasions - birthdays, christenings, graduations, engagement, anniversaries ....

Traditional to contemporary, elegantly simple to lavishly decorated, cupcakes to tiered

cakes and everything in between!

Tel: 018907 81093 Mobile: 07927 192285

www.cakesbycathie.co.uk

It is not only UKIP’s Nigel Farage who is having a “dry” start to 2015. Others are being persuaded to do something similar but, in their case, it’s driven by post Christmas finances. Fear not though folks, here are three presentable wines with ongoing prices below a fiver - and available in local shops - that should fit into even constrained budgets.

Vignobles Roussellet Sauvignon Blanc (£4.69 at Aldi) is a nicely made white with the “Vin de France” label – a relatively new category that allows grapes to be sourced from a much wider area. The result in this case is fresh and zesty wine with lively and firm acidity accompanied by flavours of pink grapefruit, apple and a touch of pear to add depth.

For a relatively light red but also with appealing fresh acidity, try Hungary’s 2012 Hilltop Merlot Kekfrankos (£4.49 at The Co-op). Its flavours are bright and juicy with influences of red cherries, cloves and redcurrants and very little tannin to diminish their shine.

If, however, you are looking for a meatier red, seek out 2013 Wine Selection Chianti (£4.88 at Asda). While not blockbuster chianti, this does have all the cherry and red plum flavours that typify the style - and lively acidity to embellish them. Here, though, the tannins are quite soft but their influence is replaced by a really pleasing mineral edge that merges seemlessly into the wine’s mint and liquorice finish.

Brian Elliott is the wine correspondent for several publications who lives in East Berwickshire.

WINE WINNERS ON A BUDGET

ST. ABBS MARKET

Easter Weekend FairGood Friday 3rd

& Saturday 4th April

active

active

Everyone’s Friend


FEATURE

Born in November 2004, Poppy, who features on our

front cover, joined the O’Brien family in July 2010 from St Boswell’s Arthurshiel

Rescue Centre.

C learly a well trained dog, Poppy had no problem settling in to her

new home, showing off her tricks and fast becoming an adored member of the household. And although she eats anything and everything, Poppy is not destructive or disruptive. If she feels lonely or ignored, however, she has been known to jump on the bed and throw covers and pillows around.

‘She walks well off the lead but,’ says Kevin, ‘she doesn’t have full road sense. And she’d never make a gun dog. She hates bangs.’

Poppy had never visited a beach before she arrived in Eyemouth but now she loves playing on the shore where everyone she meets is her friend.

Fully recovered after the removal of a cancerous lump, Poppy trained as a Therapet in 2014. Through Canine Concern Scotland, Therapets are recruited to make regular visits to those suffering long term mental or physical illness or to elderly residents in sheltered housing or care homes. The mere action of stroking a dog (or cat) has been shown to have beneficial effects and the Therapet visiting service recruits volunteers and their dogs for this purpose. All dogs are approved for temperament and general

suitability before being accepted and Poppy, who loves nothing better than to be cuddled and petted, is an ideal candidate for the job.

Now, every Saturday, Poppy makes her weekly visit to Saltgreens Care Home in Eyemouth where she has proved a much welcomed pet. Indeed, so loved is she that one lady who seldom leaves her room always comes out to make a fuss of Poppy.

As Kevin says, ‘Not because she’s ours

but she really is a dog in a million because she teaches us something new every day. She really is the best rescue dog anyone could possibly have.’ l

For further information on the Rescue Centre contact Shona Middlemiss, Arthurshiel Rescue Centre, St Boswells, TD6 0DL and for the Therapet scheme, contact Therapet Canine Concern Scotland, 81-85 Portland Street, Edinburgh, EH6 4AY

WRITTEN BY: PAT ELLIOTT

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM

© P

HO

TOG

RA

PH: K

EVIN

O’B

RIE

N


HEALTH

The Home Care Specialists

Do you need a Helping Hand?Our local care team has been providing award winning quality homecare since 1989.

A family run company we offer you a one-to-one 24 hour live in care service that enables you or your loved one to remain at home with compassion and dignity by assisting with: personal care, companionship, errands and housekeeping.

So if you are looking for an alternative to residential care or as a short term answer whilst recovering from illness or operation - then we’re here to help.

To find out how we can help you, call: 0808 180 1016 or visit: www.helpinghands.co.uk

KEEP MOVINGThe NHS recommend that we take at least thirty minutes of moderate exercise each day. Sounds simple, but a lot of us spend much of our working day stuck behind our desks. Try taking a walk at lunch time or getting off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way. Have a go at cycling to work or, if practical, walk there once a week. A quick step outside for fresh air can also help rejuvenate you.

WATCH WHAT YOU EATIf you’re going to step up the exercise routine, stop reaching for sugary snacks and greasy take-aways. Keep healthy snacks to hand like chopped raw vegetables, fruit, nuts, or oat cakes to ease daytime cravings.

Keep track of the calories you consume on a daily basis. If you want to maintain a healthy weight, the daily recommended

intake is 2,000 calories for women and 2,500 for men. If you wish to lose weight, drop your calorie intake to around 1,400kcal for women and 1,900kcal for men. This, coupled with regular exercise should help you to lose weight at a safe rate of around 1lb to 2lb a week.

SLEEP WELLLack of sleep can leave us mentally drained and lacking in energy. The Royal College of Psychiatrists suggests the best way to get a good night’s sleep is routine. Go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time – even at weekends! Avoid daytime cat naps and enjoy a hot bath before bed to ease yourself into a peaceful night’s sleep.

Small adjustments to your daily routine can make a lot of difference to how you look and feel. So, keep a picture of your holiday swimwear firmly in your mind and go and get started! l

Many people feel sluggish and out of shape at the end of winter. These simple tips can help you get more into shape and feeling energised.

SIMPLE TIPS TO Get Into Shape For Summer

WRITTEN BY: JACQUELINE BREWSTER www.miraclealoevera.com

Paul Wheelhouse MSP

Regional Office 8 Sandbed

Hawick TD9 0HE

Tel: 01450 379 572

Open: Mon-Fri

10am-4pm

Email: [email protected]

Parliament Office Room T3.04 The Scottish Parliament

Edinburgh EH99 1SP Tel: 0131 348 6891

Open: Tues-Thurs 9am-5pm

Member of the Scottish Parliament for the South Scotland Region (SNP)

@PaulWheelhouse

PaulWheelhouseMSP

Find me on:

Berwick’s proposed ‘First annual’ Pipe Band & Highland

Dancing Contestat Shielfield Park

(by kind permission of Berwick Rangers FC Supporters Club )

Sunday 21st June 2015Commencing 10.00 am. Various stalls

and attractions in attendance Funding and sponsorship would be greatly appreciated

For further detail call Brian Douglas on 01289 302851

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM

Many people feel sluggish and out of shape at the end of winter. These simple tips can help you get more into shape and feeling energised.

SIMPLE TIPS TO Get Into Shape For Summer

WRITTEN BY: JACQUELINE BREWSTER www.miraclealoevera.com

Promoted by Peter Murrell on behalf of Scottish National Party, both at Gordon Lamb House, 3 Jackson’s Entry, Edinburgh EH8 8PJ.

The General Election on May 7th is Scotland's opportunity to make ourvoice heard loudly and clearly.

The SNP is now the third largest party in the UK, and the only major partynot controlled at Westminster. We can force Westminster to listen to thepeople of Scotland.

Left to their own devices, both the Tories and Labour plan another round of austerity cuts. And neither can be trusted to deliver the powers Scotlandwas promised.

With strong Scottish voices at Westminster we will hold the governmentof the day to account on more powers. The real powers of home rule tocreate jobs and protect services.

The SNP will speak out against unfair policies like the Bedroom Tax andspeak up for social justice for all.

And we’ll fight tooth and nail against spending tens of billions on Tridentwhen that money should be spent on public services and better childcare.

Whatever the outcome in May only one party is stronger for Scotland,the SNP.

The more seats we have here, the more powers we’ll have in Scotland.

Stronger for Scotland. Follow theSNP joinus.scot

01_28 SNP Commons Ad - 210x297.qxp_Layout 1 28/01/2015 10:24 Page 1

GENERAL ELECTION 2015

THE MOST IMPORTANT ELECTION OF OUR LIFETIME?

This General Election will be one of the most pivotal Britain has faced in generations. It is a choice between continuing along the road to recovery under David Cameron - with a growing economy, more jobs and lower taxes - or chaos and uncertainty under a Labour government led by Ed Miliband.

And here in Berwickshire, the choice is even starker.

Local people decisively rejected separation, but the SNP are now targeting this area at the General Election. The SNP believe that they can win here & they believe that with enough seats they can revive their campaign for independence.

We must not let that happen and a united pro-UK vote is the only way to beat the SNP. The collapse in the Liberal Democrat vote in the Borders and across Scotland makes it clear that I am the only pro-UK candidate able to defeat the SNP.

I will always put the interests of local people above party politics. I have a strong record in standing up for local priorities and local services. I campaigned for the re-opening of Reston station and I will continue to call for the SNP to invest in the A1 north of the border. I strongly oppose the possible closures of the Knoll Hospital in Duns and the Kelso Community Hospital and will continue to do all I can to maintain these important local facilities.

I have campaigned for investment in our bus services, help for local businesses, investment in mobile and broadband infrastructure, the reintroduction of green bins and the retention of courts and other vital services.

I have a track record of putting my constituents first. If elected in May, I will continue to work hard for and stand up for all of Berwickshire.

I pride myself in being a uniter, not a divider.

Scottish Conservative and Unionist for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk Promoted and published by R. Oxburgh, on behalf of J. Lamont, both of Campaign HQ, Lower Langbrae, Main Street, St Boswells TD6 OAP


THE MOST IMPORTANT ELECTION OF OUR LIFETIME?

This General Election will be one of the most pivotal Britain has faced in generations. It is a choice between continuing along the road to recovery under David Cameron - with a growing economy, more jobs and lower taxes - or chaos and uncertainty under a Labour government led by Ed Miliband.

And here in Berwickshire, the choice is even starker.

Local people decisively rejected separation, but the SNP are now targeting this area at the General Election. The SNP believe that they can win here & they believe that with enough seats they can revive their campaign for independence.

We must not let that happen and a united pro-UK vote is the only way to beat the SNP. The collapse in the Liberal Democrat vote in the Borders and across Scotland makes it clear that I am the only pro-UK candidate able to defeat the SNP.

I will always put the interests of local people above party politics. I have a strong record in standing up for local priorities and local services. I campaigned for the re-opening of Reston station and I will continue to call for the SNP to invest in the A1 north of the border. I strongly oppose the possible closures of the Knoll Hospital in Duns and the Kelso Community Hospital and will continue to do all I can to maintain these important local facilities.

I have campaigned for investment in our bus services, help for local businesses, investment in mobile and broadband infrastructure, the reintroduction of green bins and the retention of courts and other vital services.

I have a track record of putting my constituents first. If elected in May, I will continue to work hard for and stand up for all of Berwickshire.

I pride myself in being a uniter, not a divider.

Scottish Conservative and Unionist for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk Promoted and published by R. Oxburgh, on behalf of J. Lamont, both of Campaign HQ, Lower Langbrae, Main Street, St Boswells TD6 OAP

Michael Moore andthe Liberal Democratshave cut Income Taxby £800 a year, forover 45,000 local

workers.

Over 1.7 million newapprenticeships have

been createdthroughout the UK

since 2010.

23,000 Borderspensioners have

benefited from thebiggest cash rise intheir pension thanks

to the Lib Dems’‘Triple Lock’.

Printed by EB Living. Published and Promotedby Robert Marr on behalf of Michael Moore(Liberal Democrat), both at 48 Market Place,Selkirk, TD7 4DG.



ART

www.numberfourgallery.co.uk Thursday - Sunday 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Northfield farm St Abbs Tel 01890771111

Informal, relaxed, inspiring, we look forward to seeing you.

WIN!

Exciting times lie ahead in St Abbs this Spring. From Friday 27 March to Thursday 2 April, I’ll be displaying some work at the Ebba Centre’s inaugural Art & Photography Exhibition alongside the very talented Amanda Bell, Kevin Peden, Rachael McKenna, and prize-winning St Abbs-based Photographer Simon Holding - who recently took 1st place in the ‘People’ category at the St Abbs Visitor Centre Photography Competition.

All of my work will be available to purchase, and, with the theme of the event being “St Abbs and the Surrounding Area”, hopefully you’ll recognise some of my East Berwickshire landscapes!

If you’re keen to find out more about the exhibition, the Ebba Centre will gladly be of help. They can be contacted at Brierylaw, St Abbs, TD14 5PL. Call 018907 71557, email [email protected], or check out EbbaCentre on Facebook and Twitter.

Wishing you a very healthy and happy 2015, and I’ll hope to meet some of you at the event. If you’d like to pay me a virtual visit before then, I’m always open at www.scotlands-landscapes.co.uk. With all good wishes - Roni.

To win this super prize simply answer the following question:

Between which dates is the St Abbs Art and Photography Exhibition being held

at the Ebba Centre?

THIS BEAUTIFUL 10 X 8” SIGNED MOUNTED PRINT

“Overview” : St Abbs – by Roni Butcher plus a mixed pack of 6 Coldingham and St Abbs Blank Greeting Cards

Submit your answer together with your name, address and telephone number by email to [email protected] or by post to Birchfield House, Eyemouth, TD14 5LS. Please clearly mark your entry RB Art Competition 10.Closing date 30 April 2015.



CRAFTS

Whigmaleerie Easy Peasy makes for EasterChicken Egg Cozy (hides a surprise cream egg)COURTESY OF CLAUDIA LOWMAN AND WHIGMALEERIE

Yarn: To make one chicken you will need approx.15g of DK yarn. This is a good opportunity to use up leftover yarn Other items needed: size 4mm knitting needles, tapestry needle, scissors, tiny wiggle eyes, and little bits of felt or fleece for finishing touches.Here goes the pattern:1. co 32 sts2. rib, k 1, p 1 on enough rows to measure 1”

(6-7 rows)3. From this point on, all rows will be k rows. K 1.5

inches above the ribbing so that the main body of the chicken measures 2.5 inches.

4. To shape the first half of the tail:k 5, turn; k 5, turn; k 4 turn; k 4 turn; cast off 10 st and continue k to the end of the row (22 st remain)

5. To shape second half of tail:k 5, turn; k 5, turn; k 4, turn; K 4, turn; cast off 10 st and continue knitting to the end of the row (12 st remain)

6. To shape the head: Row 1—6: k across (12 st); Row 7: k 10, k 2 tog (11 st); Row 8: k 9, k 2 tog (10 st); Row 9—11: k 10, Row 12: k 8, k 2 tog (9 st); Row 13: k 7, k 2 tog (8 st.), Row 14: cast off leaving an 18” tail of yarn

Fold chicken in half, matching tails. Using a tapestry needle and the long tail of yarn, join the two halves together starting at the head and ending at the lower edge of the ribbing. Leave the bottom (ribbing) open to insert egg. Finish chicken with a top notch/comb, beak and eyes.

Finishing touches: For the top notch, crochet right to the top of the head in three parts using thinner yarn such as 4ply yarn or size 3 crochet thread. Chain five st, sc into second ch from hook and in remaining st going down toward the head. Repeat the five ch and sc’s for two more parts of the top notch. For a beak, just cut a small triangle from a piece of felt or felted wool. Fold in half and either tack or glue into place. Glue on small wiggle eyes.

Pom-Pom Easter BunniesThese characters are easier to make than they look, thanks to a useful little tool called a pom-pom maker. (Pom pom maker not essential, but it speeds things up, and is fun to use). Tips: Follow the instructions on the pom-pom maker’s package, but also keep these suggestions in mind:• The more times you wind the arched arms, the denser and fuller

the results. (You may want to wrap four or five times for thicker yarns and at least six to eight times for thinner yarns.)

• It’s normal for a pom-pom to look imperfect when it comes out of the maker—trim it to give it a tighter appearance and to make it the proper size.

• Tie off the centre with a length of the same yarn, if it’s strong enough to be pulled tightly. If not, choose a fine, strong yarn (or even embroidery floss).

• Once it’s knotted, you’ll have a two-strand tail—leave this long if you plan to attach the pom-pom to something like another pom-pom or a piece of fabric.

• You can use any kind of yarn you like when making pom-poms; silk, mohair, wool, acrylic, or a blend of these will work well, and each gives a different finished effect. In general, fuzzy, soft, lofty yarn is best. And the smaller you want the pom-pom to be, the thinner the yarn should be.

Step 1 - Basic Steps: Open the two arms on top of a pom-pom maker and start winding yarn at one end; go back and forth over the arms with the yarn until it is wrapped as densely as desired. Close arms and open the arms on the bottom; repeat wrapping.Step 2 - Holding the pom-pom maker closed, use scissors to snip the yarn along the centre of the rounded edges. Then cut a length of the yarn, or embroidery floss and tie the pom-pom in the centre; pull tight and knot twice.Step 3 - Open the pom-pom maker’s arms, then carefully pull the two sides of the maker apart and off the pom-pom.Step 4 - Trim any long or straggly yarn ends; if desired, trim the pom-pom further for a denser, smaller ball.Step 5 - Leave the yarn you tied off with intact if you plan to attach the pom-pom to another one.Step 6 - To make a bunny: Make two pom-poms, one for the body and the other smaller, for the head.Step 7 - Stitch the head to the body using a needle and the tail of the yarn used to tie it (or attach with tacky glue).Step 8 - Cut out ears from felt; cut tiny eyes, or use googly eyes, and a nose from black felt. Cut whiskers from white waxed thread. Glue in place. Instead of waxed thread, try using hairspray to stiffen the whiskers.

Materials• Pom-pom maker.• Yarn in the colour of your choice.• Small scissors • Embroidery floss, or use the

yarn to tie pom-pom. • Needle

• Pom-Pom Animals templates • Pencil • Felt in various colours • Thread in white

and brown (for whiskers)• Tacky (clear) glue


A s most adults know, applying for a job is a stressful experience. What

to write on the application form, how to word a personal statement, who to ask for references. And if you are fortunate enough to make it to interview stage there’s all that pre-interview preparation and heart-thumping nervousness on finally confronting a selection panel.

How much more daunting, then, if you are fourteen years old with a future job hunt still on the distant horizon? But it is to this challenge that aspiring Eyemouth Herring Queens must rise. And it was as part of the selection panel for the 2015 Queen that, on behalf of EB Living, I witnessed first hand the lengths to which the EHQ committee go and the stringency of the selection process to ensure the final decision is fair and unbiased and the successful candidate well equipped to handle the demands of the year of her reign.

Having visited Eyemouth High School to outline the requirements of the Herring Queen’s annual tenure, the committee invites applications.

Application forms follow the standard format for most jobs: personal details, qualifications for the role, personal attributes and a personal statement highlighting applicant skills and qualities particularly suiting them to appointment. Two referees are also required.

Completed forms and references received by the EHQ Chair remain sealed until a selection panel, comprising representative local organisations, has its preliminary meeting. Only then are application forms and references opened. Each panel member is given the opportunity to read the papers and to devise a question relevant to the requirements of the role. Panel members agree who will put which question during interviews and exactly the same question

is put to each candidate. All papers are then held securely by the Chair until interviews commence.

From start to finish, selection of the Herring Queen is out of the hands of the EHQ committee. They remain unaware of applications submitted, of panel membership, of questions to be asked, answers given or marking criteria and marks awarded.

On the evening of the 2015 interviews, the candidates faced a seven-member selection panel – formidable for even the most experienced interviewee but doubtless terrifying for these young adults. However, each conducted herself well, responding to questions openly and honestly, although, understandably, nervously.

Marking on a pre-determined scale and final selection was as challenging for the panel as the whole process was for the candidates. But clearly the way in which Eyemouth Herring Queens are chosen works well and we wish Roma Peakman every success when she assumes her reign in July. l

{ }I witnessed first hand the stringency of the

selection process

A Winning FormulaHow the Eyemouth Herring Queen is selected WRITTEN BY: PAT ELLIOTT

W ith the end of the Christmas break, students are being

motivated by Head Teachers across the Scottish Borders to work hard at their studies – and the speeches that they are giving which will pay off in the long term.

It is a well-known fact that young people face extraordinary pressures and stress around this time of the year. Prelims have been completed and the exams are in sight, but not quite reachable. Year on year, we see our young people work hard. This year is no exception.

Scottish education has faced a huge turnaround in direction. Broadcasters and the press have highlighted the intense scrutiny and pressures that

teachers and local authorities face when the education system changes of new courses, introduction of assignments etc.

But young people also suffer real stresses. Yet, in the midst of exams, studies, projects – as well as the new Course Assignments – we see young people being inspiring. There are committed young people working on volunteering activities, and helping those in their communities. If we think specifically of East Berwickshire’s Young People, they really are unique.

Eyemouth is currently undergoing community consultations on how to improve the town. Many know this as ‘Vision 4 Eyemouth’. With another student, I met with members of the Eyemouth Community Trust and Vision

4 Eyemouth to discuss how young people can get involved in this incredible project. The voice of Eyemouth’s young people is one that needs to be heard.

East Berwickshire is brimming with talented individuals. You only have to look in local press to see just how talented East Berwickshire’s young people are with Open Mic Nights, Singing, Theatre and much more.

Frequent Open Mic Nights – an evening of singing and enjoyment for students and the local community – in the High School is just one way that young people are heard. Vision 4 Eyemouth is looking to develop a new area called a ‘Chill Space’ – an area to be used for young people as well as others in the community to everyone’s benefit.l

FEATURE

Community CommitmentThe Achieving Young People of East Berwickshire WRITTEN BY AARON BOLTON


T hat was the situation Susan Wilson from Eyemouth found herself

in regarding her father’s whaling days after he passed away in June 2000. Her quest to find out more about her father’s experience as a whaler led her to several colourful and seasoned characters of the community who had whaling connections.

These interviews proved to be the stimulus to explore more about the world of whaling and her father’s role in the industry which has now culminated in the production of a brand new piece of theatre.

‘A Cinema in South Georgia’ has been co-written with Jeffrey Mayhew, a well known and accomplished South East based theatrical director/composer and the origin of the title relates to the shipping of the projector from the Alhambra Cinema in Leith, Edinburgh to a desolate whaling outpost in South Georgia.

Over the past year the play has developed into an entirely new and

original piece of drama bringing to life the experiences - bitter, hilarious, rueful and heart-warming - of some of the last men to follow the millennia-old tradition of hunting the whale. Driven by dire

need, difficult home circumstances or just the desire to break away, men from these islands found their way, by one route or another, to the whaling grounds of the Antarctic. There, from the grim and perilous foothold of the whaling station on South Georgia, they ventured out into the ice in what would seem to us to be tiny whaling ships to hunt the whale.

Jeffrey and Susan hope that this play, based entirely on written and oral first-hand accounts into the period in

and around 1959, the pivotal year for the show, will evoke for contemporary audiences the flavour of those times. Aspects of this subject are contentious and the darker side of the whaling industry is not shied away from but the piece is above all a celebration of four men, who, at differing points in their lives, in different ways and with differing attitudes and outcomes risked their lives amongst the ice floes. l

How many times have you heard yourself say, “I wish I had asked about that before it was too late”?

in South Georgia

{ }A new and original piece of drama

Top: abandoned whale catchers, Grytviken, South Georgia;Left: Southern harvester factory shipFar left: Cast, Archie (Mark Vevers), Robbie (Frazer Smilez), Jim (Euan McIver) and Fraser (Jonathan Combe)

Coldingham Village Hall 27/28 March 2015 - 7.30pm

Tickets from Luckenbooth, Coldingham, Occasions Florist, Eyemouth or www.coldingham.info/tickets

Maltings Theatre, Berwick 9 May, 2015 - 8pm. Tickets from The Maltings Box Office, Berwick

FEATURE

A

WRITTEN BY:

SUSAN WILSON

© D

ESIG

NED

BY

FR

EEPI

K.C

OM


SPORT

L ast year’s Jim Clark Rally was one to

forget for the local community and motorsport fans alike. The death of three onlookers cast a black cloud over the Borders, and put the rally’s reputation in serious jeopardy.

Scottish Borders Council said (October 2014) that investigations into the accident would not be completed come May next year, and took the decision to cancel the rally which is held on the public roads of the region.

The rally is said to generate upwards of £3 million for the area.

Rally organisers issued a statement saying they planned to hold an event on the final weekend of May as normal but, since the use of the public roads was banned, the format of the event was still unknown. There was the possibility of an event later in the year and the Council was open to discuss with rally organisers proposals for 2015.

Many people are against cancellation of the rally, and a Facebook campaign accumulated well over 5,000 likes. Local MSP John Lamont also questioned the Council’s decision and raised the issue with the Scottish Government.

If the rally did not proceed, it would be a great loss for the Berwickshire economy. Local shops, hotels and bed and breakfasts would lose a significant amount of trade as thousands are attracted to the Borders to watch this unique event.

In January, Police Scotland and the

Health and Safety Executive completed their safety review and recommended changes for marshals, spectators and the media present on a rally stage. Rally marshals now need to obtain a mandatory licence before being able to marshal, photographers will have to wear numbered tabards so they can be easily identified and the idea has been floated of designating low, medium and high risk spectator areas.

Despite this, the Scottish Borders Council’s decision not to run the rally remains unchanged. While they welcome the recommendations, they maintain that until investigations into the 2014 deaths are complete, they cannot plan the event with the rally organisers and Police Scotland. They do, however, say they are keen for the event to return to the public roads as soon as possible.

If the region were to lose the event completely, it would be a blow to both the Scottish Borders and the motorsport community. The Jim Clark Rally is vital for the local economy and is unique in being the only rally in mainland Britain to use closed public roads.

Happily, on the 12th of January, organisers confirmed the rally would be based in Kelso with stages in the Kielder Forest for 2015, with the aim of returning to the tarmac public roads for the 2016 event. l

© PHOTOGRAPH: LUKE BARRY

FUTURE OF THE

Jim Clark Rally

WRITTEN BY: LUKE BARRY

F our years ago, Borderer Samantha Kinghorn was tragically crushed

by a forklift. She is now paralysed from the waist down and had to endure six agonising months in hospital before coming to terms with the reality of her injuries.

But Samantha is now a successful wheelchair racer, and is hoping to make the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Kinghorn’s life obviously changed dramatically after the accident in December 2010 and during that time she sought inspiration from former Welsh wheelchair racer Tanni Grey-Thompson.

Since then Samantha has enjoyed great success. She came second in her first ever race in 2012, the London Mini-Marathon, and has set Scottish records in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 10k and the half marathon. She was also part of the Scottish Commonwealth Games team in Glasgow this year, and in the run up to the games was named Glasgow’s Disabled Athlete of the Year.

Her greatest achievement was winning three gold medals in the European Championships. For the future, Kinghorn is very much focused on the 2016 Paralympic Games. She has realistic targets.

“For my first Paralympics I will be happy about getting to all the finals. I am not too sure what else I will be doing, hopefully lots of exciting things. Let’s just see what doors open!”

Adapting so quickly and bravely to the changes in her life, Samantha is an inspiration to us all. Her advice to others unlucky enough to experience similar circumstances is to “stay positive and try to think of the best even though it’s hard to. Never give up because just remember so many people love you - family and friends! One window closes and another ten open. I feel already I have achieved so much more in my chair than I ever would have as an able bodied person.”

SEE ME IN RIO

WRITTEN BY: LUKE BARRY

Don’t worry – she doesn’t need your name, just send your question to Aunt Sophie, E B Living, Birchfield House, Eyemouth, TD14 5LS or email [email protected]

Fed up with family? Neighbours niggling? Mother moaning?

Teenagers talking back? Nobody knows your nearest and dearest’s secret life?

Aunt Sophie has seen and heard it all...

Dear Betty

As health care improves there are more and more

people around who have active bodies but less able

minds, or the other way around, yet our society

still struggles with our current care system. My

own mother had a very debilitating illness which

meant that she needed specialist care which her

family could not provide. We spent a lot of time

visiting care homes to try and find one equipped

for her needs and she eventually settled in the one

which we thought best suited her lively mind but

failing faculties. There is no ‘right’ answer to your

dilemma, as children we do not ask to be our

parent’s carers and yet we feel a duty and guilt if

we do not. I would not want my own children to

feel obliged to put their lives on hold to care for

me; after all they did not ask to be brought into the

world, I gave birth because I wanted to experience

motherhood. It is my view that we should create

them, enjoy their formative years, share their

triumphs and their pain, but that we should then

set them free to repeat that cycle.

I suggest you and your brother-in-law’s family

both visit care homes with a view to finding the

best option with residents who have similar interests

and outlooks to your mother in law, and then

calmly and firmly move her there for her own peace

of mind and safety as well as yours.

BELIEVE it or not, some of you bipeds were a bit sceptical when I told you that ancient Egyptians actually worshipped canine look-alikes. Sheriff Bob Gualtieri of Pinellas County in Florida however had no such doubts – as Google reported the other day. The good sheriff spent $500 on a specially woven rug for his office. Since this was going into official premises, it naturally had America’s motto built into the weave.

Last week local busybodies began creating a fuss

because it contained the phrase “In Dog We Trust”. Official Jobsworths spun some old yarn about a misprint at the rug manufacturers, but I know better. Good old Bob had called it right!

If you are still scoffing, consider what a man from Mars would conclude. Down to Earth he comes and sees two quite different inhabitants. One walks on two legs and has to wear clothes because he has no fur and the other is a bright, smart quadruped with sharp teeth and a keen sense of smell. But who is in charge?

Mr Mars gets a pretty good idea by noting who rushes around petting and clapping the other and serving the smaller one’s food in an (often silver) dish. What clinches it though is when the smaller one “does his business” the big one rushes across with a small yellow bag - and picks it up. No doubt now, surely, about the relative hierarchy.

LAB REPORT By staff reporter K Nine

Dear Aunt Sophie

My husband’s mother is in her 90s and when his father died suddenly

we discovered that she was unable to look after herself. This came as a

complete shock as they had seemed to always be going out and about

visiting friends, shopping and living an independent life. Now we realise

that Dad did all the remembering for both of them and kept Mum safe

and clean and tidy. They live a long way away from us but their other

son and his wife live nearer so it has fallen to them to try and find a safe

place for Mum. They tried having her stay with them but she wasn’t

aware of what time of day or night it was and left water running and all

sorts. There is a retirement home near to her old house but when they

took her for a trial there she said she didn’t like the other residents and

had to be brought back to my brother in law’s house. I don’t think we

could cope with her any better than my in-laws did and think she would

not recognise where she was anyway. What on earth can we do? - Betty

Ask Aunt Sophie


We’ve got Berwickshire covered...ROUTE 253 Berwick > Burnmouth > Ayton > Eyemouth > Coldingham > Reston >

Cockburnspath > Through East Lothian onto Edinburgh City Centre!ROUTE 60 Berwick > Foulden > Chirnside > Duns > Greenlaw > onto Galashiels via BGHROUTE 235 Berwick > Burnmouth > Eyemouth > Coldingham > St AbbsROUTE 67 Berwick > Norham > Cornhill > Coldstream onto Kelso & Galashiels via BGH

We can also take you to the wonderful HOLY ISLAND on ourRoute 477. This Service departs from Berwick and the Timetable

varies due to the Tidal Causeway used by our bus!

Check out our Local Service Timetables at www.perrymansbuses.com

Coach Hire for Business Sport & LeisureAn award winning BusinessAirport Transfers - School Trips

Weddings - Day Trips - Golf Tours

Tel: 01289 308719

www.perrymansbuses.com

eb living march/april 2015

Documents

copy of eb living

pages of eb living

wonderful eb

favourite magazine

east berwickshire

successful magazine

multitalented people

homes gardens