Chatterbox

A crossword-loving cat is the star of the latest Chatterbox, along with his human carer, Anne Marie Jack from Avoch. Samson (with a little help) has won several competitions, including one in this very magazine. Read all about him in our Autumn edition.

When we went to press at the end of August, Marius Anderson – aka the Road Rage Cowboy – was nearing the end of a circumnavigation of Britain in a 1960s tractor, raising money for charity. His final few miles will be/were (depending when you read this) around the Black Isle, from where he set off in July. We find out what’s behind the epic journey.

When the 800-year-old Beauly Elm finally succumbed to weather, disease and old age, Black Isle Men’s Shed was determined it wouldn’t be forgotten. Now shedder John Tuach is creating bowls and clocks from its wood. We look inside his workshop.

A team of volunteers is busy creating a community garden out of disused land in Cromarty, but there’s still lots to do. Find out how you could help with the project.

The Black Isle is a haven for birdlife. Sandy Mitchell takes a look at some of our residents, visitors, and those just passing through.

A Fortrose chip shop owner, Richard Comfort, is one of the first local businesspeople to pledge support for plans to turn Raddery House into a centre of excellence for dementia sufferers. We find out what’s happening.

It’s ten years since Black Isle Cares was created to offer services such as meals delivery and befriending. To mark the anniversary, a family fun day is planned featuring food, music and a bouncy castle. Learn all about BIC in our latest edition.

Also celebrating is the Rosemarkie Allotments and Gardens Society, now 15 years old. Find out more about the group, and how you could get your own plot in Rosemarkie.

And there’s much more in another packed magazine – and still only £2. Get yours now!

Russell Turner, Editor