ANTLER
CHUG-ING TOWARDS THE FUTURE
THE PUBLIC MEETING ON MAY 20TH 2011 ABOUT CARRADALE HARBOUR
Around sixty members of the Carradale com-
munity tacitly acknowledged that Carradale
Harbour was no longer solely a facility for
traditional fishing practices, and that fish
farming, leisure yachting and tourist facilities
needed to be accommodated alongside provi-
sion for the present fleet.
Following an introduction by Allan Walker,
who admitted that his only reason for being
Chairman was that he didn’t attend an earlier
meeting, he went on to give a potted history
of the harbour for those who had only recently
become members of the community or had
only a vague understanding of the politics
involved.
Claiming to be an equally reluctant
spokesperson, Mike Hurst thanked Matthew
MacMillan for his efforts to keep the Harbour
tidy, and tried valiantly to persuade a comput-
er with a mind of its own to display views of
the present facilities, diagrams of the earlier
Craignish proposals, a less formalised update
and a series of high and low lights of develop-
ments at Tarbert, Tobermory, Tewkesbury
and Galveston.
Warming to a subject which had interest-
ed him intensely for many years, Mike went
on to describe the changes affecting remote
highland fishing villages and the requirement
for a new assessment of tourist need. He
assured listeners that the purpose of the
meeting was to seek local views and to rally
support for intensive fund raising. He com-
pared the present initiative with the highly
successful efforts made to improve the Vil-
lage Hall, and in his enthusiasm for communi-
ty involvement asked residents to assist
CHUG in obtaining Council permission for a
local committee to operate the harbour.
He stressed that rejuvenating the harbour
environment was a long-term project and that
a staged development would provide a more
assured method of progress rather than an
all-out effort to do everything within a short
period of time.
Specific comments were made about the
existing toilet facilities which were described
as ‘good, but 400 years old’ although they
would definitely need to be upgraded to offer
showers and possibly changing facilities.
In summing up both Mike and Allan were
keen to insist that the target was to make the
harbour and its related facilities ‘Small but
Perfect’ .
Landscaping and maintenance
Patios and Paving
Drainage and Fencing
Turfing and Monoblocking
Tree work, Free estimates
All excavations undertaken
CARRADALE GARDEN SERVICES
CARRADALE DRAMA CLUB
Opening the meeting to questions
proved to be an invitation for an effi-
cient coterie of Hotel staff to serve
coffee and tea; José was thanked for
her quality Network baking.
Refreshed, questions were asked
about where fish-farm craft will go in a
north-east gale, would dredging be
required, the likelihood of fixed moor-
ings for visiting boats between May
and September and the possibility of
reclaiming land on the side of the har-
bour.
These and other questions about
the existing ramp, the pontoons on one
or both sides of the harbour, the diffi-
cult step ladders, the necessary provi-
sion of inclined companion ways, and
unlikely developments at Waterfoot
gradually expanded the scope of un-
derstanding and seemed to dispel
most of what remained of the fishing
reluctance to consider even modest
changes to the status quo.
In drawing the meeting to a close
Allan Walker asked for the supplied
questionnaire to be completed and re-
turned to the post offices so that a
clearer idea of community desires
could be formalised and prepared for
submission to authorities and funding
bodies. Both speakers emphasised
the need for everyone to make their
views known; without effective com-
munity agreement and support little
would be achieved and further deterio-
ration could occur. G.P.
SADDELL AND CARRADALE CHURCH GUILD
SUMMER FAYRE
at 2.30 p.m. on
Thursday 14th July
Carradale Village Hall
Baking, Produce, Bottle Stall
Tombola, Sweets, Ice Cream
Guessing games & Treasure Hunt
Entry including refreshments
Adults £3 Children £1.50
Fayre to be opened by Dr R.Abernethy
Donations gratefully received in the Hall
between 2.30 and 4pm
01583 431362 & 07814767813
Established
1989
presents a Play Evening at 7.30pm on
SATURDAY 25th JUNE in
CARRADALE VILLAGE HALL
On Saturday 25th June, Carradale Drama Club will
present their winning play ‘A Little Box of Oblivion’
by Stephen Bean in the Village Hall at 7.30pm.
This ‘absurd’ play has been great fun to do. It’s
set in a park, where a strange woman leaves a
strange box. Various equally strange characters
appear and there is great speculation as to what
is in the box. Eventually the owner of the box
returns and all is revealed! We won in Campbel-
town with this play and came third in Ardrishaig.
We weren’t placed at the Divisional Final in Kil-
marnock where we were up against the ‘profess
ionals’ but it was a wonderful experience.
Supporting us on this evening will be Jane Dunbar
doing one of her legendary one woman plays,
‘The Mother’ by Lynne Truss. This play is about
Janey - bright, posh, brittle, with lots of delusions
about her life, her daughter, her daughter’s boy-
friend and the staff at her favourite health farm
where she has become addicted to treatments.
This story, both comic and tragic, is beautifully
written and has something for everyone. This
evening of plays will finish off a very successful
drama season for us and we look forward to
entertaining an enthusiastic Carradale audience!
Mary Macalister Hall.
IN THIS ISSUE
P.2 James Cook, ice streams, McIntosh plaque & BT.
P.3 Niarchos, Thalassa and a letter to the Editor.
P.4 Food for thought and thoughtful language.
P.5 More thoughtful language and Torrisdale memories.
P.6 Shore Road celebrities, EKCC minutes & a scam.
P.7 Bank, animal, creditor and school attacks, Golf
P.8 Alien plant invasion: knotweed and hogweed.
P.9 Alien plant invasion: balsam and ragwort.
P.10 Carradale Camera Club AGM minutes.
P.11 Teeth, roads, Grogport rainfall, pictures and Pool.
P.12 Sturm und drang - weather and vehicle problems.
NETWORK CENTRE & TEA ROOM
Open 10am to 5.30pm
Closed Thursday
Carpet, Upholstery Cleaning
& Window Cleaning Service
Mobile: 07799 395709
CARRADALE
GOLF CLUB
THE SECRETARY IS MARGARET RICHARDSON,
2 OLD SCHOOLHOUSE, CARRADALE
PA28 6QJ. TEL: 01583 431788
FURTHER INFORMATION IS ON PAGES 7 & 11.
2 The ANTLER 2
the dates of the work and find out who the lead
RRS JAMES COOK scientist is and what their work is. So here
UPDATE FOLLOWING MARTIN’S ENQUIRY

Phone
http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/nmf/mfp/displayprofile.p
Dear Mr Mears, hp?pid=479 you can see more details of what the
In response to your telephone query this morning I cruise was doing and can access reports of the

KeeF
have found some information for you about what the cruise, the work they actually did (the weather does
RRS James Cook was doing at the Mull of Kintyre not always play fair!) and other interesting informa-
recently when you were able to take photos of her in tion like that.
action.
I hope this satisfies your curiosity about what she
Need a repair or a small Between the 21st April and the 4th May the was doing in the area - she's a very busy ship and it
job done? Can’t get a principal scientist was Dr Joana Gafeira from the is quite incredible to see the amount of planning and
tradesman to come out? British Geological Survey and she was doing the logistics that go on to get all the researchers and
work on behalf of Dr Alan Stevenson from the British research equipment into the right places for embar-
DIY Geological Survey who devised the actual research
Tiling kation all over the world. Thanks very much for your
programme. The work being undertaken was on query as it has made me find out more information
Joinery marine geology. Here is a brief summary (in rather about our ships and the work they do which is incred-
Fencing scientific language I'm afraid!) about what the re- ibly interesting. Here is a link to a clip of her being
Decking search was: unloaded (speeded up) at the docks at Southampton
Shelving after one of her cruises - this is not the best video of
Decorating SOUTH-WEST SCOTTISH
this I have ever seen but gives an idea just how
Path laying ICE-STREAMS much equipment she carries - http://www.youtube.
Domestic repairs SHALLOW SAMPLING THE SW HEBRIDEAN REGION com/watch?v=Szgr1pcT9gw& feature=related
Dry-stone walling Our understanding of the continental shelf flow sig-
Flat-pack assembly nature and subsequent deglacial footprint associat-
ed with the last British/Irish Ice Sheet has been
Your local aided, in recent years, by high-quality remote sens-
handy-man ing data-sets, such as multi-beam swath bathymetry.
who won’t let In combination with the BGS legacy seismic reflec-
tion data-set we are establishing a position whereby
you down we are able to provide an increasingly powerful set
& won’t charge of empirical observations in order to test and refine
the earth established numerically driven ice sheet models.
However, whilst we are better able to reconstruct the
No job too small
glacial geomorphology of the former extent and con-
figuration of the British/Irish Ice Sheet, we retain a
01583 431614 dearth of chronological information that precludes a
07786 838996 definitive age assessment for the timing of expan-
sion and subsequent retreat of the ice sheet.
The primary objective of this cruise is to target Kind regards, Poppy Leeder,
key stratigraphic sites along the known ice-sheet External Communications Manager,
flow lines in the SW Hebrides region - an area where Natural Environment Research Council,
several palaeo-ice streams are known to have coa- Polaris House, North Star Avenue, Swindon SN2
lesced - in order to address the key issue of chronol- 1EU Office: 01793 411974 Mobile: 07917 456694
ogy. The proposed area of study is illustrated in the Environmental research news, features, podcasts,
attached figure, and focuses on the southern Hebri- blogs www.planetearth.nerc.ac.uk.
des Shelf incorporating the Sea of the
Hebrides/Malin Sea/North Channel region, but ex- NO BT DIRECTORY?
tending landwards into several of the sea lochs, Once again, Waterfoot residents failed to receive a
including those of the Knoydart/Moidart region, Loch BT telephone directory in May. The independent
Linnhe, and the Argyll/Firth of Clyde region. In order delivery agency did not visit in May 2009 or 2010
to achieve our cruise objective, we will design a and the 2010/2011 issue is still awaited. Although
series of sampling corridors that follow the flow lines the new directory doesn’t match the Kintyre Index in
of the former ice margins as they decayed back into quality and type size, it is essential for numbers
the glaciated hinterland of northern Ireland, and outside Kintyre. If you haven’t received your
Tracy & Fiona are very central and southwestern Scotland. It is our intention 2011/2012 directory ring the very helpful Brian Corc-
pleased to announce that to fully integrate the offshore results with the adja- oran on BT’s phone book freefone number - 0800
Nonnie has now joined the cent terrestrial information to produce a linked model 833 400 - he will instruct the agency to deliver.
team at the fully licensed of deglaciation, and establish, for the first time, a
Ashbank Hotel chronology of events from the onset of ice sheet
collapse to the ultimate demise of individual outlet
Carradale glaciers.
Bar open from 12pm to 2pm
& 4pm to late - Quiz every
It is also intended to sample previously unknown
Thursday at 8.30pm prompt morphological elements preserved on the sea bed,
as identified from our new work on multi-beam swath
OPENING TIMES: bathymetry in this region, in a bid to better define the
Tuesday - Sunday nature of the former glacial land-system, and the
12pm - 2pm. evolving marine landscape since the ice disap-
Evening meals:6pm - 8pm peared. Essentially they were taking soundings and
Booking advisable
measurements along the sea floor to better under-
Take away menu plus all items from the
main menu, just order before 1 pm stand how the glacial ice sheet retreated and get
Parties, Events & Outside Catering timings for how this happened. We call these re-
available to suit your needs
e-mail: ashbankhotel@tiscali.co.uk search activities 'cruises' - but having heard how
Internet www.ashbankhotel.com hard everyone on the ships work its certainly not a
Free Wi-fi & parking cruise in that sense!
For further details please The charts of all our ships activities can be seen Matthew Ramsay and the RNMDSF Chaplain,
call 01583 431 650 at http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/nmf/mfp /programme the Reverend Andrew Wright, at Carradale Harbour
chart2011-12.php and through this you can select with the newly installed McIntosh family plaque.
 3 THE ANTLER
‘I SAW TWO SHIPS COME
SAILING BY’ .........IN MAY!
STAVROS S. NIARCHOS
The Tall Ships Youth Trust’s ship, Stavros S Niar-
chos is one of the world's most magnificent brigs. It
was seen and photographed by Martin Mears, in
Kilbrannan Sound proceeding north in the second
week of May. A member of the The Tall Ships Youth
Trust, the Stavros S Niarchos is a 60 metre square-
rigged ship. There are four 22 metre Challenger
Yachts and a 19 metre Catamaran in the Trust’s
fleet, operated by Tall Ships Ltd., one of the charity's
subsidiaries. The craft are in use 12 months of the
year both around the UK and abroad, offering adven-
ture sailing voyages.
ANOTHER THALASSA
The imposing tree-masted barquentine Thalassa
was in Kintyre in mid-May. She was built in 1980 and
Phormium
underwent a major refurbishment in 1995. She has a
large deck house saloon and bar area capable of
seating up to 30 guests for dinner and a second
saloon on the lower deck with seating for a further 36
guests. There is a large open deck that can be
covered with an awning to give a great outdoor
space protected from the elements. The Thalassa
also has 18 comfortable twin cabins with en-suite
showers making her a great venue for team building
event and residential training programmes. With an
overal length of 47m a width of 8m, a draft of 3.90m,
a mast height of 38m she can carry 800sq.m of sail.
3
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
FAILURE TO REPORT THE McINTOSH UNVEILING
I was amazed and somewhat disappointed, that
there was no report in the June edition of the Antler
on the unveiling of the McIntosh commemorative
plaque at C/dale harbour on 7th May.
These men were local fishermen who lost their
lives in a harrowing disaster 100 years ago, conse-
quently decimating a family. The Service held at the
harbour, was a quiet, dignified and poignant one.
TOM
Many McIntosh descendants had travelled a GRANT
considerable to attend. One family had driven up
from Appleby. Surely this was a piece of local news
PARTNERSHIP
worthy of publication, especially since you had pub-
lished details of the disaster some years back. ARCHITECTS
May I express grateful thanks to Duncan and
Gail McIntosh who had organised this event and to
Matthew Ramsay who conducted the Service.
41 Longrow
Edith McIntosh. Campbeltown
Dear Edith, Argyll PA28 6ER
Many thanks for your e-mail - I agree. Unfortu-
nately I was not told of the date of the ceremony nor
Tel: 01586 554727
invited; Johnny Durnan and the ‘Carradale Goat’
Fax: 01586 551727
were in the same position. The first I heard of it was
when it appeared in the ‘Courier’. If we are not 24 Argyll Street
informed of events, meetings or minutes there is little Lochgilphead
we can do. In the final analysis I assumed that (a) it
was a private family affair, (b) that only fishing fami-
Argyll PA31 8NE
Tel: 01546 603050
lies were invited, or (c) they preferred not to have it
reported.
Some village organisations also have a reluc- Mobile 0370 538 661
tance to advertise their activities and this may well
account for their inability to attract adherents or TOM GRANT
survive without wind-farm handouts. Others take the Dip., Arch.,
view that kudos can only be gained by restricting
their publicity to the ‘Courier’. At times this lack of
R.I.B.A., R.I.A.S
interest in free local reporting makes it seem hardly
worth continuing with the publication of the Antler.
I am aware that my comments, about local au-
thorities and other public bodies not doing their jobs,
Alasdair McPhee
and criticism of local groups failing to keep residents
informed, are not appreciated by those affected, but FINANCIAL SERVICES
IFA
my policy as Editor has always been to report events REVIEWING YOUR FINANCES?
and include minutes without comment - remarks by Areas of Financial Planning
GP are a different matter! Protection - Personal, Mortgage,
Subscribers seem to appreciate the coverage of Business and Income.
news and lively comment and many loyal advertisers Savings / Investments - Annual ISA
and reporters have supported the format throughout Allowance / Low interest rates, there
its life. The Antler’s unpaid postal officer does a are alternatives offering potentially
magnificent job and local distributors offer a first greater Capital Growth and or Income.
class service, often competing to get their copies out Pension Planning - Plans should be
first. While this continues, so will the Antler. reviewed on a Annual Basis.
With kind regards and best wishes
Under the current Economic Climate
The Editor.
reviewing your Finances should be
WATERFOOT BOATING seriously considered. We offer, in the
‘NOT A CHUG IN HELL’ OF BEING CONSIDERED privacy of your own home, a free
This photo of Waterfoot, with its acquired protective Personal Review covering all the
bar, is not a place being considered by the Carradale above, meetings can be arranged by
Harbour Users Group to relieve pressure on Car- calling:-
radale Harbour. Mooring in the bay continues. Contact numbers are 01586-552598 /
0779 857 4890 / or 0141 887 6778.
Alasdair McPhee, Financial Consultant
was born in Carradale, lives and works
in Campbeltown.
Financial Planning Made Simple
e-mail: amcphee@hotmail.com,
St James Business Centre,
Linwood Rd, Paisley PA3 3AT
Tel: 0141 887 6778 Fax: 0141 887 6344
Alasdair McPhee Financial Services is an
appointed representative of Personal Touch
Financial Services Limited which is authorised
and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
Principal Alasdair M. McPhee Cert.PFS MLIA(dip)
4 THE ANTLER 4

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Tel: 01583 431233
Web-site
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e-mail
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ON A ‘VIRTUAL NARROWBOAT’ TYPE PENINSULA
WITHOUT WHEELS
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
GROCERY PROVISION FOR THE ELDERLY AND
FOR THOSE WITH HANDICAPS
The common expectation that good health will last
for ever and death will come quickly and quietly at
night, is as unlikely as winning the pools or seeing
interest rises above 0.5%. For most of us in nuclear
families spread all over Scotland, the UK or the
World, the likelihood of family help in times of difficul-
ty is as remote as St Kilda or even London.
How we deal with the inevitable is a matter of
planning, neighborliness and trying to stay within the
net of social services. All too frequently hitches oc-
cur, information is difficult or impossible to obtain and
‘passing the buck’ becomes a game in which service
providers seem to have the upper hand.
For someone who has an increasing interest in
what lies ahead, it seemed to be the time to take
stock of what is on offer and start to make arrange-
ments for outwitting the grim reaper.
Shopping is essential for those still able to cater
for themselves but concern over the distance be-
tween home and the nearest shop is not lessened by
the expected loss of personal transport and possible
withdrawal of free or subsidised travel. Even visiting
the doctor may become impossible if the Red Cross
support is withdrawn.
Kind friends are often as rare as sympathetic
councillors outside election times, so an investiga-
tion into what other services are available in the local
area seemed to be the first step in sourcing help.
After nearly twenty years in Carradale and thirty
in Scotland, memories of school canteens catering
for pensioners meals seemed as illusory in the local
catchment.
However, as usual, it was not so much an ab-
sence of the service but rather a lack of advertising.
It seems that on Tuesday and Thursday meals
are available, at a price thought to be around £3 for
a two-course meal. They are cooked in the Car-
radale School canteen under the Head Cook Sheena
Ramsay and distributed by affiliates of the Women's
Royal Voluntary Service through the agency of Argyll
& Bute Council Social Work Department. Outside
this arrangement care workers are involved in pre-
paring or helping to prepare meals for those who
receive in-home services.
Further afield, commercial companies like Wilt-
shire Farm Foods offer a wide range of frozen single
mini-meals from £1.85, normal main courses £2.85
to £4.85 and desserts from 90p, all delivered free of
charge in bulk once a month or once every two
months. (phone 01371 876970).
Patersons carry a range of frozen foods and
have often delivered essentials to those who have
temporarily been unable to leave their homes, and
the Omans deliver papers on request.
Supermarkets on the other hand have a very
wide range of meals and foodstuffs which they are
normally prepared to deliver for a fee of £5 within 20
miles of their stores. Unfortunately these services
appear not to be available at either Tesco or the
Coop in Campbeltown -
CO-OP: Preliminary contact with the Co-op was
encouraging in that I was advised to await a call from
their head office - it never came.
TESCO asked me to ring their customer service
department - a series of invitations to press 1, 2, or
3 took me through four different operators without
once talking to an Indian gentleman named John
Brown - but the outcome was the same - no service
available from the Campbeltown store and no cer-
tainty that the new store will invite Internet or tele-
phone ordering or deliver to local customers.
Where do hungry pensioners and the disabled
go from here? Do they move to a ground-floor flat
between a hospital, a crematorium and a supermar-
ket, or do they continue to age disgracefully in their
own homes until social services are blamed inappro-
priately for not keeping track of the elderly and their
needs? G.P.
THOUGHTFUL LANGUAGE
TESCO TACKLES WELSH LANGUAGE PROBLEMS
With the rash of multi-colour bi-language road signs
spreading in areas of Argyll where Gaelic was once
the most-spoken language and where only some
primary schools and Gaelic choirs maintain the tradi-
tion, it is interesting to read on the Internet that Tesco
is doing its best to cater for the Welsh speakers,
confuse continentals and mislead English speakers.
The following item shows that meaning is not as
important as speaking with forked tongues. Ed.
‘Ever felt so confused when shopping that you don't
know which way to turn? Spare a thought for visitors
to one Swansea Tesco, where signs tell them to exit
left in the Welsh language - allanfa - and on the right
in English. But the store said that while there is a
contradiction between the signs, both directions are
in fact exits, although one of them is via the petrol
station. "We'd like to reassure all customers that they
are welcome to exit the car park in either direction”.’
‘The supermarket giant said it had consulted
widely on all their bilingual sign-age. It is vital that the
Welsh text is given the same attention as the English
It insisted that the confusion was an issue of posi-
tioning and layout, rather than one of translation or
grammar.’
‘The Welsh Language Board, charged with ad-
vising on and promoting the use of Welsh in busi-
nesses and public bodies, says in its guidelines:
"Where there is a relationship between a number of
signs - for example at the same location - they
should all use the same method of distinguishing
between Welsh and English."
 5 THE ANTLER
It is not the first time that road signs have left
Welsh-speaking Swansea shoppers scratching their
heads.’
‘In 2008 officials from the city's council e-mailed
colleagues to get a translation of a road sign at
Morriston, which read in English: "No entry for heavy
goods vehicles. Residential site only".They then
received an automated reply, which they assumed
was the translation into Welsh, and put it on the sign
at Tesco, Fforestfach, Swansea." Tesco says the
sign confusion relates to positioning and layout, not
translation But it actually said in Welsh: "I am not in
the office at the moment. Send any work to be
translated”.’
‘While the Tesco sign has raised a few chuckles
among Swansea shoppers, Meinir Jones of the
Welsh Language Board said there was a more
serious issue."Our advice for businesses and public
bodies is to treat the two languages at the same
level from the beginning and to plan how both lan-
guages will be used at the same time. It is vital that
the Welsh text is given the same attention as the
English text when it is edited and proofread. There
is a huge surge in the use of Welsh by businesses
and most companies are by now adopting the lan-
guage to some degree or other. Most are aware that
they need to use an accredited translator for the big
jobs - refurbishment, entire store signage, automat-
ed Welsh answer-phone systems and so on - but
what to do if they have a niggling twenty something
words to translate in a hurry"?’
‘She went on to explain that the WLB would, via
their web-site, provide translations of up to 75
words, free of charge to businesses who wish to
promote their use of the language and attract
Welsh-speaking customers. Other notable
English/Welsh translation howlers in recent years
include -
Cyclists between Cardiff and Penarth in 2006
were left confused by a bilingual road sign telling
them they had problems with an "inflamed bladder".
In the same year, a sign for pedestrians in Cardiff
reading 'Look Right' in English read 'Look Left' in
Welsh. In 2006, a shared-faith school in Wrexham
removed a sign which translated the Welsh for staff
as "wooden stave". Football fans at a FA Cup tie
between Oldham and Chasetown - two English
teams - in 2005 were left scratching their heads after
a Welsh-language hoarding was put up along the
pitch. It should have gone to a match in Merthyr
Tydfil. Not to be left behind Scots living near an
Aberdeenshire building site in 2006 were mystified
when a sign apologising for the inconvenience was
written in Welsh as well as English’.
So where does this leave Argyll & Bute Council’s
policy of trying to encourage tourists when there are
perhaps more Germans, French, Spanish, Portug-
ese, Italians and eastern Europeans using the
county’s roads than native Gaelic speakers. If the
Council continues down this unfriendly-to-visitor pol-
icy would it not make equally illogical sense to go
back to Ogham and enjoy the rather more ‘pict’-orial
forms of the period before Scotland became im-
mersed in the decorative Celtic script - an indelible
form which, fortunately, the Council sign makers
decided would not be as clear as modern non-serif
fonts. or G.P.
PLANNING APPLICATION
Proposal: Change of use from forestry land to pri-
vate garden ground and erection of 15.6m high (to
blade tip) wind turbine. Location: Creag Lodge,
Torrisdale, Campbeltown, Argyll & Bute, PA28 6QT
Applicant: Mr & Mrs James & Celia Holgate, Creag
Lodge, Torrisdale, Campbeltown, PA28 6QT Devel-
opment Type: 10B - Other developments – Local
Grid Ref: 179884 – 635376 13/5/
5
D.McNAIR
& SON Ltd
Fuel Merchant
KINLOCH ROAD
CAMPBELTOWN
TORRISDALE MEMORIES PA28 6EG
In their time the Lodges at Torrisdale have housed
a number of estate employees, holiday-makers and TEL: 01586
some longer-term residents. Locals will remember 552020 /552039
with affection Major Andrew Arthur - Mary Macalister FAX: 01586 552039
Hall’s father, and the unforgettable Margaret Ma-
clean - a nanny to the Estate, Campbeltown’s first
policewoman and who for, many years, enjoyed
farming with her husband Johnny at Brackley.
Amongst some of the lesser known occupants of
QUALITY HOUSE
of the South Lodge were the Patons who lived at the COALS
Lodge and South Dippen (now Inyanga) on and off SMOKELESS &
during the 1970s. Hester and Dennis were an elder-
ly couple who had travelled the world. Dennis, a
COOKER FUEL
member of a South Wales industrial family, rejected CENTRAL
the opportunity to carry on the family business and HEATING OIL
farmed on his own account in Scotland, Devon, the
Channel Isles and France. Hester was an Appin and FREE DELIVERY
Colonsay McNeill and spent much of her early life in MONDAY TO
China with her barrister father but returned to Argyll
before the First World War. FRIDAY
Later Hester’s brother, also a barrister, worked
in Shanghai, but after the Japanese invaded China
in 1937 Hester’s sister-in-law returned to Scotland
with her daughter Jane, who spent many of her THE
school holidays with Hester and Dennis. Eventually
Jane ‘did the season’ and became a model working
for a number of well-known designers including
ROYAL
Norman Hartnell. In 1953 Jane married Lord
Dalkeith at a service in St Giles Cathedral attended BANK
by members of the Royal Family; Lord Dalkeith had
previously been romantically linked with Princess OF
Margaret. Unfortunately Dalkeith broke his back in a
riding accident so Jane dedicated her life to his
needs and to the Buccleuch Estate. He died in 2007
SCOTLAND
and she followed as the Dowager Duchess of Buc- ‘Where people matter’
cleuch and Queensbury on April 18th this year.
Hester was essentially a country-woman at
P.O. BOX 13,
heart and an enthusiastic gardener. In 1975 Dennis 11 CASTLEHILL
and Hester left for Bude to live on the ground floor
of a house owned by a friendly Asian landlord,
CAMPBELTOWN
leaving the Torrisdale air bereft of friendly competi- ARGYLL
tive assertions. They are now happily reunited in the
graveyard of the Catholic Church at Holdsworthy,
PA28 6AP
near where they farmed many years before. G.P.
CARRADALE
BRANCH
OPEN
THURSDAY
10 to 11 a.m.
6 THE ANTLER 6
E.K.C.C MAY MINUTES SHORE ROAD CELEBRITIES
TOMMY PRESENT: Shelagh Cameron, Andrea Hopkins,
Ronnie Brownie, Stuart Irvine, Elizabeth McMillan,
Councillors Robin Currie, and John McAlpine,
MARGARET McBRIDE AT 90

MILLAR Apologies Lachie Paterson and Tom Adams.

Convenor Shelagh Cameron welcomed everyone.
MINUTES OF LAST MEETING: Proposed by Ronnie
Brownie seconded by Elizabeth McMillan.
MATTERS ARISING FROM LAST MINUTES:

TRAVEL • Goat management - no update

• Julian Green (roads) - next Community Council
meeting
• Red Cross bus - no update
• Treasurers report - closing balance £1866.00.

COUNSELLOR Cheque paid for rent of hall £100

• Planning - none
• Village survey update - survey to be put in next
month’s Antler, please fill in and return.
FFor all your Travel and • Rhododendrons - a talk and short video clip by Dr
Margaret McBride, much-loved retired post-lady,
greets well-wishers on her 90th birthday on Sunday
Holiday arrangements put Stephen Murphy, Forestry Commission. 1. 15th May. 2011. Photo courtesy of Martin Mears.
your trust in your Affected - rhododendron ponticum; 2. Disease -
own Travel Adviser phytophthora species; 3. Can jump species to
mainly Japanese larch; 4. All rhododendrons within
TOMMY 100 metre area of infected bush have to be cleared
and burnt; 5. In Carradale area most

MILLAR rhododendrons have to be cleared to contain

spread of disease; 6. Video clip showed before and
after views of Carradale area. More information
Tel: 0845 0587589 can be obtained from Stephen murphyforestry.qsi.
e-mail: qov.uk. or www.forestresearch. gov. uk
tommy.millar@travel CORRESPONDENCE: none
counsellors.com Email - Audrey Baird - Community Planning.
Web-site ANY OTHER COMPETENT BUSINESS:
www.travelcounsellors • Road down to Carradale bay - needs mending
• Alan Parker to see Scottish Water about above
.co.uk/tommy.millarr • Convenor Shelagh Cameron to get a quote for
above ‘The Herald’ motoring correspondent, Dominic Ryan,
• Could be funded by Community Council
adds a further touch of class to Shore Road by
Convenor Shelagh Cameron to contact Malcolm
McFadyen to confirm if any local buses from bringing a distinguished £40,000 Audi TT test-drive
visitor to the village. Photo courtesy of Martin Mears.
PATERSON’S Campbeltown to Carradale are being cut.
Convenor Shelagh Cameron thanked everyone for
BAKERY & attending and closed the meeting
POST OFFICE COMPUTER SCAM.
Strathclyde Police have received several reports of a
Licensed Grocers fraud being carried out across the whole Argyll and
Bakers and Bute area. This takes the format of the public receiv-
ing a cold telephone call from an individual claiming
Newsagent to represent Microsoft (or other company such as
AOL), and that the individuals computer, or partner
/husband/wife, has reported a fault and that they
THE SHOP require remote access to solve the problem.
IS OPEN After access is given it is explained that the
relevant upgrades will cost money at which point
Thursday 8-1 bank details or credit card details are obtained and Not to be outdone Johnny Durnan came up with
Sunday 10-11 monies taken. The people making the calls are very a third beauty - an Aston Martin Rapide - also spot-
Other days: plausible, and we have received reports from every ted on Shore Road.
8-1 & 2-5 area of Argyll and Bute, and although the majority
have taken the appropriate action, there have been A WEBBED ANTLER
THE POST several members of the community who have lost While the black, grey and white Antler continues to
several hundreds of pounds. If you receive such a be issued free of charge to Kintyre’s east coast
OFFICE IS call, please decline the offer and hang up. residents and is available at certain public facilities in
OPEN If you have been the victim of such an incident please Campbeltown, just under a hundred subscribers still
Monday to 1) contact your bank or credit card company 2) enjoy their copies for a posted rate of £10 a year.
Saturday 9-1 Contact your local Police Office to report the incident. For those more familiar with IT, thanks to the
3) It is advisable to run any anti-virus/spyware etc kindness of Johnny Durnan, the online colour version
software to ensure nothing has been left or had the of the Antler can be read on the Carradale Goat
Try our freshly baked opportunity to insert itself in your computer. 4) web-site through the agency of SCRIBD. Additionally
morning rolls, crusty Change any security passwords or usernames, es- in June, thanks to Kenny Craig of the Hardware shop
bread, tea bread and pecially if these are used for several features or sites. in Campbeltown, it can be accessed on the Kintyre
cakes, baked in our old- Mark Wilson, Community Safety Sergeant and Local Community Forum web-site, again via SCRIBD.
fashioned stone oven. Authority Liaison Officer to Argyll & Bute Council For those who like finding their own route enter-
07708012489 or 07884234096 ing the joined up word ‘TheAntler’ on SCRIBD should
mark.wilson@argyll-bute.gov.uk give the current issue, and with ‘Carradale Antler’,
Tel: 01583 431725 mark.wilson@strathclyde.pnn.police.uk much earlier versions put on SCRIBD by the late
Donald Kelly.
 7 THE ANTLER 7
ATTACKED BY EXPERTS CARRADALE GOLF CLUB
AND TREATED TO A SALTIRE LADIES GOLF
Carradale Ladies held their annual Open Day on Sun- CARRADALE
day 5 June, with a significant number of players compet-
ing from Arran, Tarbert, Campbeltown and Glasgow.
Despite a poor weather forecast, the majority of ladies
had reasonable conditions, and thoroughly enjoyed
GOLF
their game. Thanks to Green-keeper, Robert Strang
who had worked very hard to ensure the course was in
excellent condition.
CLUB
The winner of the Scratch trophy was : Laura
McGeachy (Windyhill). Runner-up was Lindsay Ramsay
(Carradale) and third was Sheena Murchie (Lamlash)
The winner of the Handicap trophy was Anne Storm
(Carradale). Runner-up was Jeannie Astill (Carradale)
and third was Shona Martin (Tarbert).
For the Silver Division, the longest drive at the 18th
was awarded to Lindsay Ramsay (Carradale) and near- FEES
est the pin in 2 on the 2nd was awarded to Laura Juniors Adult
McGeachy (Windyhill). Round £7 £16
For the Bronze Division, the longest drive at the 4th Daily £10 £20
was awarded to Liz Inglis (Shiskine). For both divisions, Weekly £35 £75
nearest the pin at the 8th was awarded to Jennifer Two weeks £45 £95
McArthur (Lamlash) Magic 2’s: Margaret Campbell at Country membership £132
the 17th (Carradale); Jean Barclay at the 17th (May play in Club Competitions)
(Lamlash) Thanks to everyone who helped in any way Affiliate Club Members £10
including the ball spotters and ladies who provided the
catering. M.R. For further information
MEN’S COMPETITIONS SO FAR Contact
The Secretary,
Winter League Tankard R. J. Abernethy 40 pts
The Oban Co-op ‘hole in the wall’ after someone March Medal D. Dunlop 66 b.i.h. Margaret Richardson
tried to ‘skim’ the ‘milk’ from the Co-op Bank. Winter League Shield I. Dunlop 40 pts BL6 2 Old Schoolhouse,
Sent in by Peter Morrison. Tennant Caledonian Trophy J. Paterson 39 pts Carradale,
Club Tankard J. Paterson 64 b.i.h. PA28 6QJ
ATTACKED BY PHEASANTS April Medal R. McConnachie 54
With the B842 beset by official hazards, caution is May Medal I. Dunlop 62 Tel: 01583 431788
the watchword. Although in the past pumas were In the team match against Machrihanish at Home, Car-
in evidence, now-a-days although deer frequently radale lost 6-1. J.S.I
cross the road and lambs sometimes stray away
from their mothers, the latest problem is a change NEILSON ROSEBOWL MIXED
from the casual loitering with intent to one of GREENSOME GOLF
positive aggression. Having carefully avoided con- Carradale Golf Club held its annual Neilson Rosebowl,
tact with a male pheasant and his spouse, a local Mixed Greensome competition on Sunday 29 May.
driver started to increase speed only to be fol- Despite playing in extremely windy conditions, Margaret
lowed by the male eager to attack tyres in the Campbell and Hamish McCaig came out on top in the
manner usually the province of the Council. Un- Scratch with a score of 32.8. Second was Anne Storm
able to keep up he decided the threat to his part- and Dr Abernethy with 35.3. First in the Handicap com-
ner was over and courtship resumed. petition was Elizabeth McCaig and Ian Robb, scoring
30.4, whilst Barbara Hughes and Alan Walker came
ATTACKING STATISTICS

ON AVERAGE....
How many times have we heard an apparently
well educated TV presenter making the most obvi-
ous mathematical mistake when giving details of a
research topic - missing out the words ‘on aver-
age’? If road accidents deaths are said to occur
every 30 seconds, but no one died while you are
reading this page - who was the victim?
ATTACKED BY CREDITORS
ANOTHER CHANGE IN WIND DIRECTION
The closure-threatened factory at Machrihanish
which manufactures towers for wind-farms has
been saved - four months after going into adminis-
tration. The plant has been bought by Wind Tow-
ers Limited, a joint venture between Scottish and
Southern Energy (SSE) and Marsh Wind Technol-
ogy. The factory at Machrihanish employs more
than 100 people.
Its future had been in doubt since Danish
parent company, Skykon, filed for bankruptcy.
Skykon took over the operation in Spring 2009
after the previous owners - another Danish com-
pany Vestas - decided to close it. When it went
into administration, Ernst and Young agreed a
deal with engineering firm Siemens to resume
production while attempts were made to sell the
business. (Internet source)
DAVID
second with 36.0. Margaret Richardson.
ATTACKING SCHOOLS
With SNP Councillor Semple prepared to seek inde-
pendent legal advice on Argyll and Bute Council’s plan
to close some schools in Kintyre, schools not affected
seem to be keeping a low profile and no longer advertis-
ing their successes and achievements.
Is this wise when more radical proposals may well
MCKELL
be in the offing. Southend went all-out to defend itself
against a merger with Drumlemble, but could Carradale ELECTRICIAN
be under consideration if the proposed combined 9 ISLE VIEW,
primary/secondary school is built in Campbeltown. Now
is the time to advertise what a good job Carradale is MACHRIHANISH,
doing not only in the ‘Courier’ but also on the more local CAMPBELTOWN
‘Goat’ web-site, on the pages of the ‘Antler’, the ‘Scribd’
host and the Kintyre Community Forum web-site. ARGYLL PA28 6PY
SURGERY SAUNTERS PHONE:
It was encouraging to read in the ‘Courier’ that members 01586 810472
of the local surgery team have raised money by walking MOBILE:
round Saddell village to help support the retention of the
Thursday Red Cross bus collection service, but were 07786 650937
they also looking for a building to house a satellite E-MAIL:
surgery if the rescue attempt fails. The Antler com-
mends their efforts and looks forward to welcoming DAVIDMCKELL
more surgery news, information and pictures in the
future.
@YMAIL.COM
8 THE ANTLER 8
ALIEN PLANT INVASION IN ARGYLL AND BUTE?
THE COUNCIL OFFERS ADVICE ON LONG TERM BIO-DIVERSITY ISSUES
With an increasing threat from Phytophthora ramorum (P.ramorum), a fungus-like disease
affecting plants and shrubs, especially rhododendron, viburnum, camellia, and more
recently larch, East Kintyre Community Council members were addressed at their May
meeting by an expert on the subject. At the same time Argyll and Bute Council are
reminding gardeners and the concerned public of a continuing threat from non-indigenous
species -
‘Argyll and Bute has been invaded by several new species – of plants! Many of our gardens
have been greatly enriched by the introduction of plants from abroad, but a small number
like rhododendron ponticum, Japanese knotweed, Skunk Cabbage, Gold Deadnettle,
Himalayan or Indian balsam and Parrot feather are highly invasive’.
‘They are a big problem in the wider environment threatening our habitats and native
species and they can be an issue in the garden too. It’s difficult and expensive to control
these species but many are widely available with little indication of the damage they can
do if they are allowed to escape into the countryside or disposed of carelessly. The threat
to our bio-diversity, native species and habitats from these plants is very serious’.
‘You should always be aware of what you are buying and growing and make sure you
avoid using plants know to be invasive. There are always alternative plants better suited
to gardens. If a plant is unfamiliar to you make sure you do some research. Be wary of any
labels which use terms like ‘vigorous’, ‘spreading’, ‘fast-growing’, ‘self –seeds’ and ‘good
ground cover.’‘If you are exchanging plants with friends you should think about how what
you are offering could spread. Much of the problem with Himalayan balsam is down to
gardeners donating seeds. Watch out for introducing an alien species as a ‘hitch – hiker’
as many invasive pondweeds in particular are introduced to gardens this way. It’s a good
idea to quarantine newly bought pond plants to see what else might come with it. Garden
waste should be composted to provide organic matter to feed your plants and cut down on
costs. If you’re buying topsoil it’s always a good idea to try and see it before you buy it as
this is how many alien species make it into our gardens’.
JAPANESE KNOTWEED
‘Japanese Knotweed was introduced in the UK in the
1850's as an ornamental plant and as a fodder plant. It is
a very invasive weed though not harmful if consumed. It
is generally found along rivers and streams, road verges,
in gardens and on waste ground. Careless disposal of
cuttings and soil containing root fragments are thought to
be the most common cause of the spread of Japanese
Knotweed. It is an offence under the Wildlife and Country-
side Act to plant or otherwise cause the plant to grow in
the wild. The main problems caused by growth of Japa-
nese Knotweed fall into the following categories: Nature
conservation where its aggressive growth smothers all
other vegetation. Recreation and landscape where its
growth can restrict visibility on roads, cause litter traps,
and lead to soil erosion the winter after foliage dies off. Flood defence where growth may
impede free flow of water. The cost of maintenance of grounds and river banks is greatly
increased. Built environment where the strong growing shoots of the plant can push
through asphalt damaging road surfaces and penetrating foundations of buildings, land
drainage and lifting interlocking blocks.
IDENTIFICATION: Stem Grows to 2-3 metres, green with red/purple speckles, hollow with
distinct nodes like bamboo, forms dense clumps, plant dies back in winter but stems
persist as upright brown hollow stalks. Leaves alternate, green heart shaped leaves
120mm long, flowers delicate creamy sprays August to October
ACTION TO TAKE: Regular cutting or pulling will, after a number of years, eventually
exhaust the rhizome and kill the plant. Cut material must not be removed from site and
FIT THE BEST cannot be composted. Herbicide control: Dense stands of Japanese Knotweed can be
treated with a glyphosate-based herbicide. If the Japanese Knotweed is sparsely
distributed, spot-treat or use 2, 4-D amine, which is specific to broadleaved plants and will
UP TO 40% off not harm the grasses. It may take two or three years to completely kill the entire plant. Most
effective control can be achieved if Japanese Knotweed is cut or sprayed in early summer,
and then sprayed again in late summer, just before the plant dies back in winter. SEPA
CONSERVATORIES,WINDOWS & DOORS,
must be informed about the use of herbicides and advice
GARAGE DOORS, ROOFLINE PRODUCTS, should be sought from them on restrictions for herbicide
FLAT ROOFS, DRIVEWAYS, use near water’.
SECURITY SYSTEMS, CCTV.
GIANT HOGWEED
FREE QUOTATION ‘IDENTIFICATION Stems start growing March/April
NO OBLIGATION reaching up to 5 metres tall, green with dark purple spots
or blotches, furrowed or ribbed with sparse spiky hairs,
To arrange an appointment,
contact hollow, up to 100mm across. Leaves emerge dark green
Sandy in a rosette in the spring, lower leaves up to 2.5metres
McPherson long in summer, leaf lobes deeply cut and spiked at the
Telephone ends. Flowers: white, appear June to September, up to
01586 552776 500mm across forming one large umbrella like flower head
Mobile HAZARD TO HEALTH: Sap is an irritant which can cause
07818874066 severe burns on skin
 9 THE ANTLER 9
ACTION TO TAKE Chemical control spraying can only be carried out during the growing
season (March to August), when there is green, leafy material present. In order to be
effective, spraying must be carried out before the plant flowers and sets seed, otherwise
there will be thousands of additional seeds on the ground ready to grow at some point in
D.McNAIR
the future. Never use a strimmer or chipper on Giant Hogweed material as this can cause
sap to become airborne, resulting in injury.
& SON
HIMALAYAN BALSAM
TELEPHONE
IDENTIFICATION Stems: Pinky red colour up to 3 metres (01586)
tall, hollow and jointed, sappy and brittle, Leaves spear 552020 or 552039
shaped, shiny and dark green with a dark red midrib, up
to 150mm long, arranged opposite on stems or in whorls Fuel Merchant
of three. Flowers, purplish pink to pale pinks, slipper
shaped on long stalks, appear June-October
KINLOCH ROAD
ACTION TO TAKE: Chemical control: use glyphosate or
CAMPBELTOWN
2, 4-D amine, needs to be used while plant is actively PA28 6EG
growing in early spring for best effect. FAX: (01586 552039)
Cutting/mowing/strimming: Cut at ground level using a
scythe, before the flowering stage in June. Do not cut QUALITY HOUSE COALS
earlier as this promotes greater seed production in any SMOKELESS & COOKER FUEL,
plants that re-grow. Cutting should be repeated annually CENTRAL HEATING OIL
until no more growth occurs. Pulling: shallow rooted ROAD DIESEL & TRACTOR FUEL
plants can be pulled up very easily and disposed of by
burning or composting, unless seeds are present. FREE DELIVERY
Grazing: grazing by cattle and sheep is effective from April throughout the growing season.
It should be continued until no new growth occurs. (MONDAY TO FRIDAY)
RAGWORT
Ragwort is classified as a native species in the new Atlas
of British and Irish Flora. It is one of five injurious weeds
covered by the provision of the Weeds Act 1959. Ragwort
is poisonous to horses, ponies, donkeys and other live-
JR ARGYLL CHIMNEY SWEEP
stock and causes liver damage that has fatal conse- INSURED: REGISTERED INSTITUTE OF
quences. Animals die a slow and very painful death from CHIMNEY SWEEPS INSPECTION OF YOUR
Ragwort poisoning. Under the Weeds Act, Scottish Minis- CHIMNEY WITH OUR CCTV CAMERA
ters may serve a notice on the occupier of land on which SMOKE & DRAW TEST OF YOUR CHIMNEY
injurious weeds are growing, requiring the occupier to
take action to prevent the spread of these weeds. DECOMMISSION OF CHIMNEYS
The Control of Ragwort can be achieved in one of three ON COMPLETION OF JOB YOU WILL BE
ways: Cutting, which reduces seed production but does GIVEN A CHIMNEY SAFETY CERTIFICATE
not kill the plant. Cut plants left lying are a serious risk to
grazing animals and may still set seed. Plants should be PLEASE PHONE JOHN ON
removed and burned. Pulling and digging, which will 01583 431522
prevent seed spread but may not give long term control. OR ROBERT ON 01583 431128
Plants should be removed and burned. Herbicides, no single treatment with herbicide will MOBILE 07582 744321
completely eliminate ragwort infestation due to continued germination of seed. Treatment
of plant rosettes in late spring and early autumn proves the most effective
IDENTIFICATION Stem: upright, tough and often tinged with red near base, brighter green A KINTYRE BASED COMPANY
and branched above the middle. Leaves deeply dissected with irregular jagged edged 38 Tormhor Carradale East, Campbeltown
lobes. Flowers large flat topped head of flowers June-October PA28 6SD
HAZARD TO HEALTH Plant poisonous to mammals particularly horses Action If Found
Cutting, which reduces seed production but does not kill the plant. Cut plants left lying are
a serious risk to grazing animals and may still set seed. Plants should be removed and LOCHAIN SELF-CATERING
burned. Pulling and digging, which will prevent seed spread but may not give long term
control. Plants should be removed and burned. Herbicides, no single treatment with ACCOMMODATION
herbicide will completely eliminate ragwort infestation due to continued germination of LOCHAIN is a semi-detached property set in the
seed. Treatment of plant rosettes in late spring and early autumn proves the most effective. coastal village of Carradale. The property has views
Do not compost’. of the 9-hole Golf Course. This cosy cottage is
On the wider issues of regulative and voluntary action, the drive to cull some plants and comfortably furnished. Three Bedrooms, twin, King
combat diseases among others gives the national and local authorities a problem. Perhaps size and single. All kitchen utilities, bed linen and
the Forestry Commission should welcome a disease affecting R.ponticum, which accord- towels provided. Pets allowed, small garden and car
park for two cars. Enquiries Phone 01583 431612
ing to the bio-diversity lobby is ‘an invasive non-native plant’. However a move to take no
action over P.ramorum would lead the larch to join the southern elm and the oak in the
category of protective species.
For Argyll & Bute Council itself the issue of bio-diversity brings up a number of other
problems, not least on the date from which species are said to be native to Scotland. Apart
from seed in the soil and others brought in by migrating birds, the last ice age gave a new
starting point, but what about plants which thrived in the earlier swamps of a much hotter
UK - are they still native? From the climatic point of view plants which thrive in the new
conditions are surely correctly described as native. Certainly it would be difficult, if not
illegal, to adopt policies over human immigration similar to those promulgated by some of
the extreme protagonists of the plant bio-diversity lobby; there is indeed a wide philosoph-
ical gap between control and eradication. Councils and their bio-diversity agencies would
do well to consider carefully what actions they take to outlaw plants which flourish and add
diversity to an area overburdened by a state imposed mono-culture. The Alaskan sitka
spruce, brought in by the Forestry Commission to increase the productivity of local forests,
illustrates the dilemma - a ‘non-native’ tree flourishing in Kintyre but capable of giving more
than a spiky two-fingered salute to the bio-diversity lobby. G.P.
10 THE ANTLER
CARRADALE CAMERA CLUB
AGM HELD ON 9TH OF MAY 2011 AT
THE NETWORK CENTRE
Present Rachel Grant, Dave Mercer, Allan McLay,
Anne Boulton, Ian McDougall, Margaret Richard-
son, Johnny Durnan, Steve Partridge, Martin Mears,
and David Currie. Apologies David Byford, Kirsty
Black, Laura Black,
CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT
1 Chairperson, Rachel Grant welcomed all to our
AGM, at the end of our Tenth year. She gave a
brief synopsis of the current year’s activities,
including the exhibition in the school with the
children producing excellent photographs, and
the winners of this year’s ‘print of the year com-
petition’ (to David Byford, and Rachel Grant,
Steve partridge also winning the Natural Light
Competition). Other nights of note were Eliza-
beth and John’s farewell, and the Night Photo
Looking for the Shoot at the pier.
perfect gift idea? 2 Rachel reminded us of the constitution on the
Then look no further than our web-site. It has been on the site for two years,
WONDERFUL so everyone should be familiar with it.
3 Camera Club dinner is being held at the Ashbank
SELECTION OF on Saturday the 14th of May at 7.30 PM.
HAMPERS 4 There were no minutes available from last year’s
AGM.
& GIFT BOXES The Chairperson’s Report was proposed by David
Order on-line
Mercer and seconded by Anne Boulton.
www.scottishtablet TREASURER’S REPORT
company.co.uk 1 18 current members including 16 members and 2
New for 2010 country members. The account has balanced
'Build your own Hamper' but has not yet been audited. Income included
for brochure and order form £24.00 from the raffle and £5.00 from the exhibi-
tion last year, (£70.00 was taken in, but the
Telephone whole cost £60.00 and the outstanding £10.00
01583 431581 was split between the Craft Guild and the Cam-
era Club) and money from club meetings.
2 Expenditure includes £35.00 to Tony Leighton for
mending the laptop, but this money will be with-
held until the problem had been completely
solved. Also paid out this year - money for gift
vouchers, engraving the cups and rent of the
Network Centre.
3 The account has £639 at present which is an
Why go to Glasgow for increase from last year.
10
two committee members nominated were ac-
cepted.
THE COMMITTEE FOR 2011/2012
Chairperson Rachel Grant, Treasurer Dave Mercer,
Secretary Kirsty Black, Competition Secretary Allan
McLay, two committee members - Steve Partridge
and Margaret Richardson.
IDEAS FOR NEW RECRUITS.
Allan McLay made the point that this item and the
next one (ideas for next year’s programme) went
together, as a good program may well encourage
more interest and attendance. Anne Boulton made
the suggestion that the club pay the £20.00 annual
subscription to Argyll FM for regular advertising on
air. David Mercer proposed that this suggestion is
carried out and he was seconded by Allan McLay.
Martin Mears suggested bringing a print every club
night which would be briefly discussed whilst the
evening programme was being set up. This was
considered a good idea. Ann Boulton suggested we
could make our name more widely known by offer-
ing to speak to other organizations. Steve Partridge
suggested we move to Peninver on a club night so
that it would be nearer to Campbeltown and it might
encourage more people to attend. A vote was taken
but the membership vetoed this idea. Johnny Durn-
an suggested the possibility of having a meeting in
the town once a month, but again this was not
agreed by the members. Margaret Richardson and
Anne Boulton brought up the idea of having a junior
section - this is an idea for future discussion. Anne
Boulton and Steve Partridge suggested ways of
advertising more actively in the Antler, rather than
just a notice that the club is meeting on such and
such a night. Johnny Durnan reminded everyone of
the Carradale Goat web-site which has a large
number of hits each per month. He keeps this up to
date and is happy to put Camera club information on
it.
IDEAS FOR NEXT YEAR’S PROGRAMME.
Ideas were discussed which included more print
nights, more outings and more practical meetings.
Everyone agreed with Allan McLay’s point that on
the nights where we were discussing prints or
slides, there should be an external commentator
(not judge) who could make some constructive com-
ments. Steve Partridge suggested an evening learn-

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CASTLE
TANNERY &
CRAFTY
SHEEP SHOP
4 Dave Mercer will publish the accounts once audit-
ed.
ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS
1 Rachel announced that the committee had
stepped down but they had been no nomina-
tions apart from Kirsty Black as Secretary.
2 Dave Mercer proposed by Rachel to be re-elected
as Chairperson. Johnny Durnan seconded this.
Stephen partridge nominated Allan McLay, but
he declined. Rachel accepted the office.
3 Margaret Richardson proposed Dave Mercer as
Treasurer. Steve Partridge seconded this. No
other nominations were forthcoming David ac-
cepted the offer.
4 Margaret is an already proposed Kirsty Black as
Secretary and this had been seconded by
Rachel Grant. Kirsty had indicated she was
willing to take on this office and as there were no
other nominations, Kirsty is now the Secretary.
5 Rachel grant proposed Allan McLay as Competi-
tion Secretary. This was seconded by Johnny
Durnan. No other nominations, Allan McLay
accepted the office.
6 Two committee members, Margaret Richardson
was proposed by Rachel Grant and seconded
by Dave Mercer, Steve Partridge was proposed
by Margaret Richardson and seconded by Allan
McLay. Steve Partridge proposed Johnny Dur-
nan which would have necessitated a vote for
the two candidates, but Johnny withdrew. The
ing about Light Painting. The programme will be
discussed at the first committee meeting.
ANY OTHER COMPETENT BUSINESS.
The Exhibition is being held on the 13th/14th Au-
gust, from 11am - 4pm, with setting up on the Friday
between 7 and 9pm in the Hall at a cost of £88.00
for two days. Johnny Durnan suggested that the
Club use the Fire Station to hold the exhibition
(providing a donation). He is going to speak to
Robert Strang and to ask him to contact the Club.
There is a possibility we could combine it with the
Fire Station’s Open Day. The School is exhibiting as
well.
Change of evening - the members were asked if
they would consider charging the club night to
Wednesday at 7pm including committee nights.
This is to allow a few members who are not able to
attend on Monday. This was agreed unanimously.
Change to the constitution. He was unclear as to
whether it had been decided to change the start of
the year from September finishing at the AGM at last
year’s AGM. The meeting agreed unanimously this
was a good move. The constitution has to be
changed to reflect this.
The AGM closed at 9.00 PM.
A committee meeting is to be held on Wednesday,
the 1st of June at 7pm in the Network Centre.
These minutes were not sent to the Antler, but with
with some difficulty, were taken from the Carradale
Goat web-site, courtesy of Johnny Durnan.
11
......TO THE BACK TEETH
A visit to the dentist can be a daunting affair.
In childhood the practice of sitting on your
own hands while in the chair, the smell of
rubber and the suffocating effect of the gas
lives long in the memory. After leaving school,
like many others, I avoided the dentist like the
plague, but on reaching the age of 40 needs
must. One or two extractions, some fillings
and regular visits to a number of dentists
ensured that nothing further was required.
Thirty seven years later and confused by
the absence of two six month reminders, I
enquired and was told that reminders were no
longer sent out and that it was necessary to
make an appointment each year to remain on
the list. This I did and am still happily related
to the surgery, its dentists and its staff. Oth-
ers, it seems, are less than happy. According
to the almost anonymous contributors to the
Kintyre Community Forum web-site, many
failed to pickup on the change in administra-
tion, didn’t make an appointment and have
now to travel to faraway places with strange-
sounding names.
Particular sympathy goes to new arrivals
who have no option but to go elsewhere for
attention. Salvation in the shape of the new -
but yet to be used - joint facility with the
Glasgow University, has still to be earned
since treatment by young professionals is
only for immediate problems; being taken on
‘the list’ is not a possibility. Had those who
failed to visit while they were on the list, made
the effort, the pressure would have been on
for an extra dentist to be employed.
The old saying of ‘use it or lose it’ has
some resonance particularly amongst those
whose gums are vibrating with pain. They can
attend as emergency cases, write to the
Health Board in protest, or wait until the new
surgery opens its doors. To use a Yorkshire
expression - by gum it hurts.
GROGPORT RAINFALL
The first four days in May were dry, but there
after, rain was recorded on all but a couple
of days. May was as wet as April had been
dry. The saying "It never rain but it pours"
certainly turned out to be the reality.
The total rainfall was 196mm (nearly 8
inches). That figure is the highest May rainfall
total since we have been keeping records.
The total for the year so far, is 691mm. This
now represents more average rainfall where-
as previously, 2011 had appeared a dry year.
More unusual even than the rainfall this
month was the exceptionally windy weather
we got. Severe and damaging gale force
winds are more likely in the Autumn and
winter and not at this time of year.What will
the summer bring is the question everyone is
asking. M.L.
POOL TROPHY
DUGALD JOHN CAMPBELL TROPHY 2011
Last Saturday night, (May 28th),saw the annu-
al pool competition for the Dugald John Camp-
bell trophy 22 entrants competed with the
contest being played till "the wee small hours"
the winner was Robert Bennett. The night
raised funds for the RNMDSF and included a
large raffle. A signed Rangers top was also
raffled and was won by Roger Sargeant from
Campbeltown. Thanks as usual to Dougie &
Jean, Charles, Andrew and Jennifer and all
who supported the night in any way. M.R.
THE ANTLER 11
GOVERNMENT ROAD AUDIT
REPORTED QUOTES OF THE MONTH
‘The poorest roads are to be found in Argyll and Bute,
where 18.4 per cent are in need of urgent repair, followed
by 15 per cent in East Renfrewshire and 14.7 per cent in
Inverclyde. Orkney boasts the best maintained roads in
Scotland, with just 3.3 per cent requiring immediate work,
while roads in Midlothian, East Lothian, West Lothian and
Clackmannanshire have all improved’.
‘Some areas are significantly worse, with nearly one in five
council-owned roads in Argyll and Bute, the worst-perform- UGADALE
ing local authority, placed in the “red” category, requiring
urgent repair. The data comes from a survey undertaken
last year, prior to the onset of December’s record cold
VETERINARY
temperatures, suggesting the problems could now be far
worse’.
SURGERY
THE KILDONAN CHICANE UGADALE
SWIFT ACTION TO SMOOTH A BUMPY ROAD?
Hi Geoffrey COTTAGE
Thanks for the copy of Antler, reference B842 see corre- by CAMPBELTOWN
spondence below. Regards, Rory Colville. PA28 6QR
(1) 26TH APRIL 12.46
To: Brown, Neil SUBJECT: B842.
Hi Neil,
Having recently travelled to Carradale on the B842 I was B.Sc., B.V.M & S., M.R.C.V.S
rather shocked at the condition of this road particularly the
C/town to Saddell stretch, obviously the winter has done is pleased to provide
serious damage to some sections many of which have had
temporary repairs. Can you indicate when more permanent
veterinary care for
repairs are likely to be instructed your pets
Regards, Councillor Rory Colville.
(2) 27TH APRIL 16.11 Please telephone
To: Colville, Rory SUBJECT: FW: B842.
See below detailed response from Julian Green.
01586 552427
Regards, Neil Brown, Network and Environment Manager for an appointment
Argyll & Bute Council, Roads & Amenity Services
(3) 27TH APRIL 16.01
To: Brown, Neil, SUBJECT: RE: B842.
We have two capital sites on the B842 Carradale road. The
Kildonan surfacing site is in the section Rory is particularly
concerned about. The contract for these works should be BROTHERS
awarded in the next couple of weeks. Only after this can a
programme be agreed with our contractor. At the moment Engineering Ltd.
we have started surveying for the permanent patching
The Complete Service
programme. When the surveys are complete I’ll have a
programme available. As a rough guide for Kintyre, I’d
expect to start a patching programme towards the end of Groundcare &
May. Regards Julian Green. Agricultural
Equipment Sales,
MULTIPLEX MOMENTS Service & Hire.
‘TRUE GRIT’ FOR SEVEN WEE PICTURE CLIENTS
MOT & MOT Repairs
It could only happen in Campbeltown.
Two Southend residents, Derek and Doreen, decided that
they hadn’t been to the cinema for years and thought they LOCAL SERVICE DEPOT
ought to support the showing of ‘True Grit’ and efforts being Roading,
made to take Campbeltown’s ‘Wee Picture House’ into its Campbeltown
second century. Telephone
They arrived to find what appeared to be a queue in the 01586 553031
foyer, but familiar with cinema queues elsewhere in Britain,
they waited patiently. After a few more joined the ‘queue’ it Head Office: Greenock Road,
was explained that the film would not be run until there Bishopton PA7 5AP
Tel: 01505 862010.
were at least seven eager film-goers.
Fax: 01505 862221
This accomplished they were shown upstairs and in Email: info@hamiltonbros.co.uk
true Western style Derek approached the only other patron Web-site ww.hamiltonbros.co.uk
sitting on the front row and said in a rough Reuben J.
‘Rooster’ Cogburn voice -”You’re sitting in my seat” - all
three smiled, sat down together and thoroughly enjoyed
the film.
FREE GAS FIRE
. A well-maintained calor or propane glass-fronted fire
with electrical flicker effect and piezo ignition is available
free of charge.
Please ring 01583 431207 or 01555 773362 MASSEY FERGUSON
 12 THE ANTLER 12

CAMPBELTOWN MOTOR COMPANY Snipefield Industrial Estate, CampbeltownTelephone 01586 553200

STURM UND DRANG (STORM & URGE)

KENNEDY’S NO SCHILLERING ABOUT - VERY MUCH A GOETHE AND GO ISSUE
Storm force winds hammer the country.

SHOE SHOP
50-52
‘Some local ladies had a close shave when a tree demolished their car.
Mrs. Janeta King of Waterfoot, Carradale and her three lady friends had
a lucky escape, on the 23rd of May. Having just finished coffee and
snacks in the local Network tearoom, and were about to go out to the car
15 LONGROW
when there was an almighty crash as a large branch of an tree adjacent CAMPBELTOWN
Longrow fell on and demolished her car’.
Campbeltown ‘The photo shows the car after
the heavy branches were cut
Walking Shoes back, but the damage was done,
Dress Shoes windscreen, sunroof and rear Cleaning
Walking Boots window smashed and roof buck-
materials
Dress Boots led, passenger side door and
All your
window mangled. Thankfully
chatting a little bit longer in the
Housewares
footwear needs tearoom saved someone or all of Ironmongery
under one roof them from serious injuries as
& hardware
glass was everywhere, with a large branch sticking through the passen-
Ladies & Gents ger door. Talking to Janeta afterwards, still a bit shocked, she said it
Hand tools
Wide fitting was like seeing it in slow motion as it dropped on the car’.
specialists ‘On the following day an articulat-
ed lorry closed the road at Allt
Power tools
Children’s fitting Cruach to all for two and a half Key cutting
service hours. Trying to climb the steep
hill this lorry got stuck and Locks
‘K’ ‘CLARKS’ blocked the road from about 5.00
Wooden
pm to 7.30 pm. Police were in
‘LOTUS’‘ROHDE’ attendance and commuters had mouldings
to leave vehicles on the Camp-
beltown side and had to get a lift
Shoes, home from friends, returning later
01586
Shoes, when it was cleared. The lorry contained a test transformer which had

552954
Shoes been in use at the local power sub station. Lachie Black came to the
rescue with his big tractor and helped tow the lorry up round the hill’.
Photo credit: Steve. Report: Johnny Durnan (Carradale Goat web-site).

WEE PICTURES
JOHNNY DURNAN Sat 18 June for 6 days
at 8.00pm
Servicing Motor and Commercial vehicles, PIRATES OF THE
Repairing & Servicing Garden machinery & Outboards CARIBBEAN:
ON STRANGER
Garden maintenance, Grass cutting TIDES (12A)
Hedge trimming & Fencing,
Sat 25 June for 6 days
at 8.00pm
Small building work undertaken, HANNA (12A)
Sat 2 July for 6 days at
GIVE ME A CALL ON 431365 8.00pm
THE HANGOVER PART II
CARRADALE’S ODD JOB MAN (15)

The Editor welcomes contributors, advertisers & subscribers. Contact him at Benbecula, Waterfoot, Carradale, Campbeltown, Argyll PA28 6QX, by ‘phone 01583 431281 or e-mail geoffreyf.page@homecall.co.uk

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