Chatterbox

Arthur MacArthur, who features on the cover of the latest Chatterbox, dreamed of a life at sea. Instead, he went into the family business. Now, after 53 years, he’s retiring from Burnside Garage in Avoch. He recalls an active life.

A family which has made a career at sea is also highlighted in our Winter edition. Sandy McLeman, also from Avoch, describes the challenges facing the Black Isle’s fishermen, who include his brothers Donald, Andrew and Johnny.

Someone else retiring is Jon Palmer, who’s stepped down as editor of the Cromarty Live newsletter after six years. He tells us how the newsletter began, how it grew, and what’s next for the former proprietor of the Cheese House.

Back in Avoch, we talk to musician Grace Stewart-Skinner whose project Auchies Spikkin’ Auchie aims to celebrate the local dialect in words and music.

The Black Isle was the inspiration for Manchester woman Lauren Johnston, now a local resident, who’s created a range of reed diffusers with scents based on the areas around her. She describes how a covid sideline has become big business.

Feddanhill Wood has blossomed under the ownership and management of Graham Tuley from Fortrose. He tells us how he transformed a gloomy forestry plantation, introducing light, wildlife and a huge variety of flora.

Staying out of doors, columnist Patrick Vickery details his ongoing battle with the tyrannical machines supposed to make his life as a gardener easier.

A picture special recalls this year’s Classic Vehicle Rally, when the sun shone on Fortrose and the crowds gathered to admire some gleaming motors. Even more remarkable is the photo of a fogbow, captured on the Sutor Path by Jeremy Price of Cromarty. It’s an impressive sight.

Looking back, we learn about the secret wartime past of the farm which for a few years during World War II was the site of RAF Blackstand, near Rosemarkie. We also take a look at the mysterious portrait which came to rest in Rosemarkie after coming home with Great War soldier Thomas Thornton.

There’s all this and more in another packed Chatterbox – don’t miss your copy.

Russell Turner, Editor