Leisure Archives - Page 8 of 13

Historic Castle Hosts Aberdeen Art Gallery Collection

Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Featured, News No Responses »

Apr 032015

With thanks to Esther Green, Tricker PR.

Dr Alison Burke, Drum Castle Property Manager with the haunting image ‘Gallowgate Lard’ by Ken Currie in the background.

The £30 million redevelopment of Aberdeen Art Gallery has led to an innovative collaboration bringing contemporary art to an historic country castle.

The National Trust for Scotland’s Drum Castle at Drumoak, Aberdeenshire, is hosting key pieces of contemporary art from Aberdeen Art Gallery while the city centre attraction undergoes a major refurbishment.

Works from the city’s collection are being temporarily homed in a specially created gallery at the castle now open to the public – part of a project to ensure works remain accessible to the public during the art gallery’s 18 month closure.

An area of the castle which has, until now, been unseen by the public has been specially adapted to host the works. The area, originally the castle’s long gallery, latterly the property manager’s accommodation, has been transformed into a museum-standard gallery and features more than 20 artworks on loan from the Aberdeen Art Gallery.

The curated selection is called ‘Human Presence’ and includes some of the gallery’s best known works, including ‘Gallowgate Lard’ by Ken Currie.

The exhibition will run for two years and complements the castle’s own artworks, including paintings by Joshua Reynolds and Henry Raeburn.

Drum Castle property manager Dr Alison Burke, said:

“When we found out that Aberdeen Art Gallery was going to be refurbished, and we were looking at developing a gallery space, we thought it would be amazing if we could bring some of the art work here.

“This is an exciting and innovative partnership. Drum dates back to 1323 and is one of the oldest intact castles in Scotland. Visitors can now take a journey from the art and artefacts of the old castle to our amazing new gallery with seminal artworks featuring mid to late 20th Century figurative painting and contemporary installation works on the theme of Human Presence.”

The Art Gallery redevelopment aims to transform Aberdeen Art Gallery and Cowdray Hall into a world class cultural centre, celebrating art and music in the North-east, and to provide a focal point for the creative industries and Aberdeen’s Cultural Quarter. The Art Gallery is due to reopen in 2017.

The partnership with Drum, alongside projects at Aberdeen’s Maritime and Tolbooth Museums, play a major part in keeping art in the public eye during the refurbishment works, says Deputy Leader of Aberdeen City Council Councillor Marie Boulton.

She adds:

“By partnership working we are ensuring that the city’s collection will remain accessible to the public during the redevelopment.

“Aberdeen Art Gallery staff working with the National Trust for Scotland have led to an exhibition being created, which will show work from the city’s collection in a specially created gallery at Drum Castle.”

Among the highlights of the exhibition is ‘Highly Sprung’ by Julia Douglas, a dress made from 12,000 clothes peg springs; ‘Gallowgate Lard’, a ghost-like portrait by Ken Currie; and ‘Restraining Coat II (Female)’ by Julie Roberts, a painting which implies a human presence with no body in it.

Drum Castle is located 10 miles west of Aberdeen off the A93. The castle is set in extensive grounds with walks, picnic area, an historic rose garden, adventure play area, tearoom and shop. Normal castle admission charges apply.

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Enzo Ferrari At The Grampian Transport Museum

Aberdeenshire, Information No Responses »

Mar 312015

Rare supercars and steam car on display for 2015 season. With thanks to Martyn Smith.

A million pound supercar is to go on display at the Grampian Transport Museum, Alford, this season.

The Enzo Ferrari – named after the company’s founder – is the only such example in Scotland and has been loaned to the museum for the duration of the 2015 season.

With a price tag believed to be in the seven figure mark the Enzo was established to commemorate Ferraris first Formula 1 title of the new millennium and initially just 349 were produced.

However, after numerous requests from enthusiasts, Ferrari gave the green light to an additional production run of 50 vehicles. In 2004 one final Enzo was built and donated to the Vatican for charity – this example later sold at auction for $1.1 million, taking the total production figure to 400!

Another exclusive vehicle to feature in the museum this season is a 1910 Stanley Steamer.

This unique example is one of just three Stanley steamers in Scotland – and almost certainly the only one of its kind. This is believed to be the most original Stanley in Britain having not been subject to any restoration work to date. Stanley, of America, were the most successful steam car manufacturers and in fact held the world land speed record between 1906 and 1910, reaching an astonishing 127.65mph!

As part of a ‘Made in Scotland’ display for 2015 only, a rare Scottish supercar will also feature this season. The Argyll name was brought back in the mid 1970s by a new company who produced a mid-engined sports car, the ill fated Argyll GT, in Lochgilphead. Founded by Bob Henderson this new car was named in honour of the grandfather of one of the investors, who worked in the original Argyll factory at Alexandria.

The Argyll GT was based on a sturdy box section chassis and fiberglass body shell. The museum is displaying the original prototype that features a turbocharged Rover V8 engine however later examples used a non-turbocharged version of the Douvrin V6 which was featured by Renault and Peugeot.

Mike Ward, curator, is delighted with the latest additions to this years exhibition.

“The GTM is well known for its policy to change at least 33% of the exhibitions every season. This rate of change is very high and accounts for our high visitor numbers – visitors come back every season to see what’s new.

“This year has seen significant changes: virtually all of our motorcycles are new, including for the first time ever a Brough Superior, we have our first ever steam car and a section devoted to the surprising but rather sad story of the once great Scottish Motor Industry. I wonder how many people remember the Parabug which was made in Aberdeen?”

Engineering And Science Careers Event At GTM

Aberdeenshire, Information No Responses »

Mar 272015

With thanks to Martyn Smith.

The Grampian Transport Museum (GTM) is holding a Careers Morning on Saturday 28th March from 11am to 12.30pm.

The event is targeted at Academy aged children from S2 to S5 from Aberdeenshire who are interested in finding out more about the subject choices and career stories from a number of people.

Our speakers will each cover a range of questions including:

What did they do at school?
What were their reasons for choosing science or engineering?
What’s their current job and what do you do?
What do they know now which you wish you knew when you were at school?

Short presentations from the GTM Young Engineers Club, which meets regularly on a Saturday morning at the Museum, will also take place.

Commenting on the event, Trustee Paul Lawson, who has helped oversee the Young Engineers team, said:

“The Grampian Transport Museum, as an educational charity, is here to help do its bit to address the current skills gap in the UK and Scotland in engineering disciplines.

“We are here to explain to local youngsters through real life experiences how interesting and rewarding a career in science and engineering can be. Our Young Engineers club has definitely inspired several young people to choose engineering and we feel we can do more!“

Please note that all school aged children must be accompanied by an adult.

Anyone who would like to attend should email youngengineers@gtm.org.uk.

Tennis For Free At Westburn Park This Weekend

Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »

Mar 272015

With thanks to Dave Macdermid.

This Saturday sees the re-launch of the ever-popular ‘Tennis For Free’ (TFF) initiative at Aberdeen’s Westburn Park.
TFF provides free weekly fun tennis sessions for all the family and the charity’s Chief Executive Officer Paul Jessop is excited at the prospect of it returning to The Granite City.

“We want as many people as possible to visit Wesburn Park on Saturday and have a go. It’s free, you will have top quality tennis coaches to teach you, so what more could you want.”

Coaching will be delivered in association with TFF, Tennis Scotland and Sport Aberdeen and Tennis Development Officer Matt Kerswell is anticipating a large turnout.

“Our TFF re-launch will be taking place this Saturday (28th March) at the tennis courts in Westburn Park from 2 – 4 pm.

“The Westburn coaching team will deliver sessions for all ages and abilities, splitting the courts up and running a range of different activities and tennis games.

“Register yourself and family members onto the session at www.tffwestburn.co.uk, using your login details, and remember the session is FREE.”

New Chair For Friends Group

Aberdeen City, Information No Responses »

Mar 052015

With thanks to Dave Macdermid.

Alan Amoore is the new Chairman of the Friends of Duthie Park, replacing Tony Dawson, who stepped down after seven years in the role at this week’s AGM of the group.

Tony, who has had the Dawson Beech planted within the park in recognition of the work he has done, will retain his links with the group, having been appointed to the role of Honorary President.

This year’s Friends of Duthie Park Open Day will take place on Sunday 16th August.

Cllr Martin Ford Responds To Latest Trump Claims

Aberdeenshire, Opinion 4 Responses »

Mar 052015

With thanks to Cllr Martin Ford.

Aberdeenshire’s Green councillor Martin Ford has responded to the latest claims made by Donald Trump about his golf development at Menie and the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre planned for Aberdeen Bay. Mr Trump made his remarks to a golfing magazine which were further reported in the Sunday Herald.

Cllr Ford has dismissed Mr Trump’s claims as ‘absurd’. The councillor is not disputing Mr Trump’s right to go to court.

On Mr Trump’s claim that he will now go ahead with a second golf course, Cllr Ford said:

“Mr Trump has contradicted himself repeatedly about what he will actually build. I would attach very little weight to his statements about his future intentions at Menie.”

On Mr Trump’s claim that the proposed wind turbines will destroy the landscape, Cllr Ford said:

“The most important landscape feature at Menie was the amazing mobile dune system, vandalised by Mr Trump to build his first golf course.”

On Mr Trump’s claim that the lower oil price will make the proposed turbines uneconomic, Cllr Ford said:

“The need to tackle climate change is not affected by short-term fluctuations in the oil price. We must increase the proportion of energy produced from renewable sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – in accordance with scientific evidence, international obligations and domestic legislation.”

On Mr Trump’s claims that he and his Menie golf development are very popular, Cllr Ford said:

“The emperor has no clothes. Mr Trump’s belief in his own popularity is just part of his fantasy view of the world.”

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Friends Of Duthie Park Seek Additional Committee Members

Aberdeen City, Information No Responses »

Feb 272015

With thanks to Dave Macdermid.

This year’s Friends of Duthie Park Annual General Meeting will be held within the sunken area of the David Welch Winter Gardens on Tuesday (3rd March) at 7 pm.

The AGM is open to members and non-members and those present will be treated to a presentation updating activity within the park over the past twelve months in addition to sponsorship opportunities available for local businesses.

The Friends of Duthie Park is also looking for additional committee members who would be willing to assist with the group’s work.

Anyone interested who cannot attend next week’s meeting can contact info@friendsofduthiepark.co.uk

Aberdeen Asset Management Back Traditional Boat Festival

Aberdeenshire, Articles, Featured No Responses »

Feb 272015

With thanks to Esther Green, Tricker PR.

Aberdeen Asset Management (Aberdeen) has stepped back on board as sponsors of the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival which takes place in Portsoy annually and is worth in excess of £1 million to the local economy.

Last year’s event festival attracted more than 18,000 people, with a significant growth in the number of visitors attending from outwith the region and just under 12% of visitors attending from overseas.

Aberdeen Asset Management’s four year sponsorship deal of the festival came to an end in 2014, but with the flagship event finding it difficult to find a successor, Aberdeen have thrown organisers a lifeline and agreed to back this year’s event, and to provide further funding in 2016.

Festival chairman Roger Goodyear has welcomed Aberdeen Asset Management’s intervention, saying it protects the continuation of the popular event in the short term, while buying more time for organisers to secure an alternative main sponsor for future years.

Roger says:

“We are delighted that Aberdeen Asset Management has generously agreed to back us with this extra support. It comes at a time when we are involved in a number of additional projects that are taking up a considerable amount of time and attention but will bring significant community benefit, including the creation of a boatshed, the building of a traditional salmon coble and, in association with the North East Preservation Trust, the restoration of a listed building to create a bunkhouse.

“Aberdeen has been a generous supporter of the festival since 2011 and that has meant that it is an extremely hard act to follow, but we are pleased to have this safety net in place as we seek other sponsors for future festivals.”

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management and a keen sailor, says of the sponsorship award:

“The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival is a key highlight of the tourism calendar and, as well as being the largest gathering of traditional boats in Scotland it has an excellent range of on shore activities for all ages.

“When we became aware that the festival was finding it a challenge to secure a main sponsor, we wanted to show support that will help safeguard this vibrant community-run event which attracts a high level of tourists to the area every summer, as it continues to seek a long term sponsorship supporter.”

Scotland’s former First Minister Alex Salmond, a frequent visitor to the festival in Portsoy on the Banffshire Coast also welcomed the sponsorship announcement.

“The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival is one of the most popular events in Scotland’s tourism calendar and I am absolutely delighted that Aberdeen Asset Management are back on-board for another two years.

“Portsoy welcomes thousands of visitors during the festival each year and during the Year of Food and Drink 2015 there are even more opportunities to promote and celebrate our award-wining local producers.”

The 22nd annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival takes place on 4 and 5 July 2015 and promotes maritime links and heritage, as well as maritime crafts, food, music, traditions and local sports.

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New Deer Sports Facility Bags Energy Firm Donation

Aberdeenshire, Sport No Responses »

Feb 052015

With thanks to Paul Robertson.

Volunteers at the New Deer All Weather Facility were celebrating this weekend after energy firm Moray Offshore Renewables made a £28,000 donation that will allow the project to be completed after almost nine years. The £405,000 project to build an all weather sports pitch and a new pavilion at New Deer is due to be completed by Easter.

Project co-ordinator, Helen Young, welcomed the cash boost which has closed the final funding gap faced by the project.

Helen said:

“We really are indebted to Moray Offshore Renewables for this vital funding which has helped bring a project 9 years in the making to fruition. This simply could not have been possible without the invaluable support of our MP Eilidh Whiteford. Together, they have provided the last piece in the jigsaw for a fantastic facility which will serve New Deer and the surrounding area for decades to come.”

Local MP, Eilidh Whiteford, who encouraged the energy firm to support the New Deer project, welcomed the funding announcement:

“The New Deer sports project is a real community-led campaign and the leadership shown by Helen and other volunteers should be commended in bringing it to fruition. It will benefit so many sports groups in the central Buchan area and I am pleased that I could be of assistance in helping secure in this final piece of funding that will allow completion of the facility.”

Representatives from Moray Offshore Renewables, which hopes to build a 186-wind turbine farm in the Moray Firth, presented the cheque for £28,820 to Helen Young on Friday in New Deer.

Commenting, Dan Finch, Project Director for Moray Offshore Renewables said:

“I am delighted that Moray Offshore Renewables has been able to join other companies in contributing to this excellent facility. The New Deer Community Trust has done outstanding work in delivering this much needed project and are to be congratulated on their hard work and determination.”

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Ski 2015 – Cross Country Skiing in the Cairngorms

Featured, Information, Sport No Responses »

Feb 052015

With the Scottish ski centres reporting between 30-60 centimeters of snow the 2015 ski season has got off to a perfect powdery start. With thanks to Janice Hopper.

The Cairngorms is synonymous with breath-taking mountain terrain and high octane skiing and snowboarding as the depth and range of skiing opportunities across Glenshee, the Lecht and the Cairngorm Mountain is vast and exhilarating.

But hurtling down a mountainside isn’t the only way to ski.

Nigel Wells (pictured), who provides tuition for the Aviemore and Glenmore Ski Shop, is a passionate advocate of cross country skiing which is a completely different approach to experiencing the landscape, expanding your skills on snow and testing yourself.

“It’s the only form of skiing that allows people to truly appreciate the Scottish countryside and really immerse themselves in the forest. The silence, compounded by the compacted snow, can be deafening and the scenery in the Cairngorms is quite something.”

Nigel is a BASI level 2 instructor but he only started skiing in his late twenties proving it’s never too late to start. He left school at 16 and experienced a demanding career with the Police force in Bradford, including becoming a Firearms Officer and a member of a specialist unit involved in the Ripper enquiries and the Toxteth and Leeds Riots, but he was soon looking for his next challenge.

Cross country skiing started as a hobby in the 1970’s but after a holiday in Aviemore Nigel became such a regular visitor that he virtually slipped into teaching. When he left the Police in 1998 he made his move to Aviemore to become a full time ski instructor and now knows the terrain of the Cairngorms intimately.

“Cross country skiing can be immensely challenging. You don’t have gravity on your side propelling you down a hillside so self-locomotion is the order of the day and that requires some effort on the part of the individual. You use your whole body and can burn around 500 calories an hour. It’s the top all over calorie burner ahead of swimming and cycling and requires huge stamina but it’s also hugely accessible.

“Children can try it and I’m also hugely interested in adaptive cross country skiing for those with disabilities. You can take it at a gentler pace or you can really speed through the forest as there are a variety of trails available in the winter months and with Glenmore now having a piste machine many more can now be cleared.”

Depending on the snowfall tracks run through Glenmore forest, taking in Bagaduish, the south side of Loch Morlich and excellent views as skiers cruise past Meall a’Bhuachaille just north of the loch and the forest. The Glenmore Cross Country Ski Machine was an investment to improve cross country skiing in the region and it’s hugely popular for an inanimate object.

With its own Facebook page the machine’s run as a charity to encourage the advancement of public participation in sport, but the beauty of cross country skiing is that those who wish to explore aren’t necessarily confined to the tracks but can venture out and explore as desired.

Cross country skiing offers its followers further advantages as Nigel explains:

“Well it’s quite economic as far as skiing goes. As long as you dress sensibly for the outdoor temperatures you don’t need quite so much kit or ski wear. You don’t have to buy a lift pass and another huge bonus is that you don’t have to queue for the lifts. That’s a lot of extra skiing time. If there’s snow on the ground you can do cross country skiing virtually anywhere so it’s really flexible.”

As cross country skiing takes place on lower ground it’s more weather dependent than mountain-top snow sports so it’s definitely worth keeping a keen eye on the forecasts. The Aviemore and Glenmore Ski Shop and its instructors have the latest information on the weather conditions, tracks being cut and other suitable terrain available.

For dedicated skiers or for complete novices cross country skiing offers a challenging way to get the most out of the stunning Cairngorms countryside and try a form of skiing that can be gentle and peaceful or rigorous and intense.

The Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of the Highlands, is the largest National Park in the UK and is made up of five different areas – Aviemore and Cairngorms; Angus Glens; Atholl and Glenshee; Tomintoul and Glenlivet; and Royal Deeside and Donside. To find out where to stay, what to do and what’s happening across the Cairngorms National Park this winter visit www.visitcairngorms.com

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