GENERAL LINKS to SITES of INTEREST......This is now to include a NEW "free" CUSTOMER SERVICE for 2008. ( Details and additional links at end of main section ) Visitors may also find this useful.

FEB 2010...."BUCKIE AUTOBODY REPAIRS"  ....Prop....Andy Rumbles.

Freuchny Road, Buckie AB56 ITT.

Tel 07776 131093 (Across from Buckie Drifter)

After nearly 48 years of generally,accident free driving, I managed.... a fine big dent and huge scratch to my "newish" car...( I'll blame the terrible winter we've had ! )

I was recommended to try Andy Rumbles....( a breath of fresh air)....And I in turn would certainly recommend him to you.

He was Fair, Fast, Friendly..... and very helpful. A very professional job at a very reasonable price.

Although well known locally, on the basis of the quality of his work and reasonable charges, I would imagine his customer range (like our own on the poultry front)  covers a large area.

Not wishing you to have any "dents & bumps" But if you do, suggest you try him first.

FEB 2010.....MJM..."JOINERY SERVICES"

Newfield, Glen Elgin Road, Longmorn, MORAY. IV30 8SL.

Mike McRitchie is the head of this "Family Business", which runs under the name of MJM joinery services.

Although he has had many years experience managing both large and small jobs in the construction industry, he does apply the same professional approach to all his work whatever the size.

Working to exacting standards it is not surprising his services are in high demand. Mike takes a personal interest in all work carried out by himself and his business.....and this is reflected by his growing range of satisfied customers

Whether your need is is a large conversion..a new build....or even  a smaller job around the house, he will advise.

At this time Mike does not have a website, but he can be contacted on...... PHONE (01343)860209, or Mob. 07918 732693.

Why not give Mike, or his wife Susan a call?

(Although in the future some changes may be made, the ones listed are the ones used by ourselves most frequently and most recently.)

We are aware that there are many poultry and related sites which are both informative and entertaining and some of the fun is “digging around looking for them.” But if there are some out there, which would like to be added to our links page, please do contact us. We would ask you of course to consider a reciprocal arrangement, which as well as benefiting our customers, will hopefully attract new customers to our respective businesses and websites. You will note the links mentioned below are not necessarily based on  a  commercial, or even a poultry related premise. If they have products, offer services, pass on information, or features etc etc. that we have enjoyed, then we will probably include them here

JAN. 2010    www.overthestile.com  

While browsing through the internet today I drifted into this website....and then spent around an hour reading through it. I have no connection with these breeders at all, although I do know it is run by Roland and Jane Horton. I was very impressed, not only by the presentation and information contained, but also by the general tone.

You may wish to visit and spend some time on their web. Even at this time if you are not onto farm stock and poultry, you may wish to take the first steps after this visit.

From their literature....

“Over the Stile is a smallholding set in Sussex looking to raise and conserve rare breeds and breeds at risk. Our livestock are raised to the highest standards of husbandry and this is reflected in the quality of our turkeys, chickens, and sheep that we have for sale.”

PLENTY MORE INFO ON THEIR SITE & CAN BE CONTACTED THERE.

www.sakuma.co.uk If you decide to pop into this site for poultry info. you may be wondering whats going on here.

OK maybe this website should not be on my "links page", but if you are a keen angler and you put value on good customer service, as much as top quality, value for money, fishing tackle.....maybe you should also try out this website.

At  the time of writing, they are offering a further 10% reduction on all products on their new website (contact Simon). And as their new website develops, so also will their range of products.

For us, patient, helpful, respectful, customer service, takes priority in our own relationships with our customers. Occasionally we find other companies, who value the same....This is one.

We do believe in supporting our own local tackle shops, who also offers sound advice and a full range of good value products. But for a wee change and for those who like to browse the web for a wider range and more in depth info. the site above may be one to visit.

www.penguin.com   Every one in the world I would think has heard of the wide range of books available from the publishers, "Penguin". I dont believe they would normally have a range of poultry books, but they have re-issued a book, that was first published in 1940 on raising chickens & rabbits frugally. I am sure you will make up your own mind, if it is relevant in todays climate.

It is an interesting read and I am sure it is obtainable through their website.

"FREE PROMOTION".....If you check latest news...(this month only DEC. '08) we are giving a way a FREE copy with orders (conditions apply). We have to emphasise, we only have a few to give away.....first come....first served.....You will have to be quick. 

www.omlet.co.uk this is the progressive company that introduced a totally new concept in hen housing...the "eglu and the cube". It might be said the new design approach of the houses have their critics...(change takes time and is not  always easy to accept). But they always create interest and comments. Their growing popularity with customers and their ever increasing sales figures and order book may reflect more truly their quality and practicality of their design. Decide for yourself by visiting their very comprehensive website....packed with information and interesting features. I should add, I may have a related interest with the (coming soon) of our "hen party groups". But my own initial doubts about the design and cost has been turned around by the comments of my many own customers who made the decision to buy one. The houses are not inexpensive,. But they are professionaly designed and built.... and I might suggest, offer real value for money.

www.alanromans.com I would recommend unreservedly, you visit this site and make contact with Alan if you are in the market for seed potatoes. The variety on offer is unbelievable. Although they are a a friendly, family business, he is a recognised expert. As well as his huge range of seed potatoes on offer, it might be wise to include for the extra few pence his latest booklet, which will give you all the information you will ever need on what appears to be all the heritage potatoes, as well as the new varieties. As I said he seems to stock them all. Even if your growing space is limited, you definitely will make room for some, after a visit to his site. And while there check out his great value vegetable seeds.

www.vitoriananursery.co.uk. Personal service is still important. Which is why I recommend "Victoriana Nursery Gardens".  They offer a selection of organic seeds/plants, (and much more), to suit everyone. The family run business is  reflected in their friendly,   helpful approach.Only recently I placed my first small order andreceived personalised email of confirmation with details of delivery, shortly after. Try them. 

 www.practicalpoultry.com Most of you will be familiar with the Practical Poultry Magazine. And of course their website/forum. Both are friendly and contain a wealth of information for the newcomer and more experienced.

www.smallholding.co.uk. SMALLHOLDER MAG: If you have a small holding you will be familiar with this publication. But even if you dont, you will find many features , articles and bits of news to enjoy and hold your interest.

www.countrysmallholding.com. Country Smallholding MAG: Like the mag. above most of you will be familiar with this publication. Both feature articles on poultry regularly. Something for everyone.

 www.kitchengarden.co.uk Everyone who delights in growing their own organic fresh fruit and veg will enjoy this established, quality, publication. It would be surprising if even the most experienced gardener could not learn from this mag. Ideal also for beginners growing their own produce for the first time.

www.blpbooks.co.uk. Broad Leys PUBLISHING: Katie Thear's extensive books on poultry are published by this company by her husband and herself....her books are full of good practical sense and a real joy to read. Maybe look no furher, if you are invoved in any aspect of poultry breeding/keeping.

www.life-guard.co.uk Suppliers of "life Guard Tonic" (we are area stockists)... and a range of natural animal feeds:

www.rbst.org.uk Rare Breeds Survival Trust, (RBST) Their special interest is in monitoring and working specifically in the survival of all rare, "at risk" animals in the U.K. ( cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry etc.) Do check out their website.

www.feathersite.co. Feathersite~poultry sites:

www.msucares.com/poultry MSU Cares. (Mississippi uni.)

 www.allandoopheasantry.com Breeders of ornamental and rare pheasants in Southwest Scotland.

FREE, NO COST CUSTOMER "LINKS" SERVICE". ABSOLUTELY FREE. PROMOTE YOURSELVES, BUSINESS, OR SERVICE.

JAN. 2010.     www.perfecttiling.co.uk

The name I would suggest says it all....Andrew Pick, who runs this family business may be the perfect choice for you.

VISIT HIS NEW WEBSITE AND YOU WILL SEE HE TAKES THE SAME TIME AND PROFESSIONAL APPROACH WITH HIS CUSTOMERS, AS WELL AS HIS WORK. (check out his testimonials)

Andrew is ....qualified.....professional.... experienced. His finished work, and all round general, friendly approach will reflect this.

Andy can be contacted through his website above,.........or TEL. 01343 862916.....or by his MOB. 07812 114079 

"WOODLAND PRODUCTS FIFE".....units 1 & 2, Block 6, Midfield Court, Mitchelson Industrial Estate Kirkaldy FIFE, KY1 3PB. Tel. 015492 712483 & Mob. 07834 725704. Email Enquiries @woodlandproductsfife.com 

This is a "family run" business, which can supply a range of top quality, professionally, long lasting products, built to the highest standards by Craig Davie.

SHEDS, DECKING, GARAGES, FENCING, AVIARIES, PLAYHOUSES, HENHOUSES, PET ACCOMMODATION etc. are some of the range.

(JAN 2010)......I only met Craig today, when he was collecting his poultry etc. He is definitely approachable...and certainly hardworking. (If he can help, I am sure he will) It may be, because of the high demand for his services and products he is focusing at this time in the FIFE area. But why not check out his new website at www.woodlandproductsfife.com

"NEW FREE CUSTOMER SERVICE".This is a totally "FREE" service, offered to our ....  *PAST* PRESENT* FUTURE* CUSTOMERS*.....ONLY.....Giving you an opportunity to promote your self, or business to FELLOW CUSTOMERS, OR VISITORS TO OUR SITE. 

We have found many of our customers, who called at our house to discuss their requirements and collect their orders are self employed, and can offer good, reliable, professional, quality services....especially in the way of home improvements, but also in a range of other areas.

If you are a customer and you feel you can offer a service, as a small business, or on a personal,  local, level, then contact us now and we will add your details to this list........PREVIOUS CUSTOMERS, IF YOU WISH TO BE INCLUDED, PLEASE CONTACT US NOW AND SEND DETAILS AND SHORT DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES CONTACT INFORMATION ETC. FOR OURSELVES &  PROSPECTIVE CUSTOMERS. WE ASK NEW & FUTURE CUSTOMERS, WHO WISH TO BE INCLUDED, TO PLEASE GIVE US  YOUR DETAILS, WHEN PURCHASING POULTRY. IF SUITABLE, I WILL GUARANTEE YOUR DETAILS WILL BE INCLUDE ON THE LISTING, "FREE" IN NO LESS THAN THREE DAYS.....AND MORE LIKELY ON OUR WEBSITE WITHIN 24 HOURS OF RECEIVING YOUR DETAILS.

Within certain boundaries, there should be no reason why you should not take up this offer..........Guaranteed absolutely FREE with no strings attached You don't have to be a professional. If you, supply logs for the fire/ bake/knit/sew/garden/cleaning/accounts/teach music/involved in crafts/etc. In fact just about anything, someone just may be after what you can offer.

You must be purchasing customers, who we have spoken to and personally met.

The service you offer, can be voluntary. But also bear in mind, if you are reading this, not to undervalue yourself. You will have many personal/professional aquired skills, that can make you a little, or a lot of money And it may be the case, especially if retired, maybe  a little too much time on your hands. Although these skills may be basic to you, they will have a real value to other people. Others will pay for a service, or product, from someone who is friendly, approachable, honest, trusting, reliable and competent.

If any of these things above, describes you and you are one of our many existing customers, should you not promote yourself and take avantage of this FREE SERVICE?

Although "FREE service LISTING", is for our customers only, you don't of course have to be one of our customers to make use of it. Although keep in mind, your skills/product/service may have to be tailored to suit the needs of the more local market.

We have met and spoke to all those listed.....and in fact used many of their sevices. But it does not mean we can endorse, or recommend, or can we be held responsible for their product or services. We will also retain the right, as to whether a customer will be permitted to make use of this free listing. If, as a prospective customer, you decide to use any persons listed, please contact them directly yourself.  Although in the final analysis it will be your judgement and decision, you may wish to give us some direct feedback.

(On a final note, we maybe should add, that although it is unlikely, we will trial this for a period and we will hold on to our right to remove some, or all persons listed, should we decide.....it might simply be the list is growing too long and we have to put down time limits. We should also emphasise however, it is not our intention..... and never will be, to use our website as a vehicle/platform for "PAID" advertisements, or endorsements or sponsoring of products..... as a means to make some extra money from our website. If we have any ambition with regard to our website, it is simply to make it more interesting and informative for everyone....and this new service we hope proves to be another step towards this goal. ........And while there, "a sincere thank you", to all the many visitors, who take the time to comment kindly and positively not on the general presentation and context of our website. But also to our customers, who take the time to comment on the poultry they bought and the service received..... and allow us to make use of their comments  as testimonials. We don't take anything for granted..."Thank You". We are always still always happy to consider any other suggestions towards making our site more interesting.....More importantly, ideas to encourage others to become involved in poultry keeping)

Buying only three garden layers suits us fine, It is also enough to give you loads of fun...and tons of eggs. And if it is, a replacement single hen, or a fine laying threesome for the garden, or for us "a biggy order" of thirty plus laying hens you need, we will  back up each purchase with  all the friendly, advice and support you will ever need.

"CUSTOMER SERVICE LISTING" continues below..............

( If , as a past or a future customer, you wish your name and details to be added to list below, please contact us now. Remember it's free.....Yes, it costs you nothing! )

"GJM JOINERY"...Graham Munroe, MORAY. All Joinery Work Undertaken FREE ESTIMATES.

Guarantee of work to the highest possible standard and finish. Extensive experience in all kinds of internal and external work in, and around the home, and all other areas.....including commercial projects.

Quality, Kitchens, and Conservatories, professionally fitted and supplied at best possible competitive prices.

Considering a new kitchen, conservatory, or even a loft conversion......full experience (25 years) in every aspect of joinery work.

"PERSONAL NOTE".....Graham was recommended to me and it is on this personal level I would recommend him and the work he carried out for us to anyone.

From the "old school"....a qualified, experienced, skilled, tradesman, who actually listens to his customers and takes justifiable pride in his finished work. A family man, with a friendly, helpful manner, who will take the time to advise & maybe most importantly, will do a really professional job. A friendly, family man, who is dependable and responsible and treats his customers with respect.

Graham can be contacted at, 16 Stewart Street, Portgordon. AB56 5QT. ot tel.(01542) 836127, mobile (07969) 590386. Email GJMJOINER@aol.com

"Brian and Angela".......Peterhead, Buchan.

For anyone who is at all interested in the History and Culture of  Scotland and particularly, Scotland's Fishing  Heritage, we would suggest a visit to this excellent website. Brian and his family, like the many generations before him, are an example of the many families of dedicated fishermen, past and present, who have put their lives in danger, in providing fresh fish for our tables. And now like so many others dependent on the land and sea, especially in Scotland .....the fishing industry, farming, crofting, family crafts,  cottage industries.....these skills are being lost and forgotten, as the big wheels of offficialdom from outwith Scotland and the UK, continue to introducing new policies and regulations. A determination, it seems, to eradicate, these hard fought for, skills and values.

OK. Sorry, enough of my politics.......visit,  spend some time on their website and enjoy it all........the pics, the views, the history.

...website @ www.buddingrose.co.uk

"Howard and Ruth"....."Cullen Harbour Holidays".....A perfect location on the banks of the Moray Firth. A "Ten Bed Back Packers Hostel", offering persons of all ages opportunies to enjoy a holiday to remember, at an economical price. Wecoming, individuals, groups and families into the lovely Moray Firth area, with its expansive blue waters and sandy beaches.

...contact "The Sailors Store", Cullen, Buckie. AB 56 4AG...or tel (01542) 841997/841465 or 07912079416 or visit  website, www.cullenharbourholidays.com

"Frankie"........Looking for Money? Bank loans, Credit Cards, Overdrafts, Bankruptcy.......to find out how you can earn extra money in your spare time. EARN MORE-DONT BORROW MORE visit website @ www.yourincome.co.uk

"Richard Hammond"..... Banff Aberdeenshire. "Lakefield Building Services" Plumbing and Heating Services. From the smallest job to the largest job. A professional, friendly, approach and backed with a lifetime of experience.....   

Tel. (01261) 843134.

"Your Local Logman"......delivering logs in bags, or in loads. Deliveries at very competitive price all the year round in Moray, Banff and in Aberdeenshire. Why not stock up by buying "bulk loads" during the Spring/Summer months.... at our "very special prices"to our loyal customers. To enjoy the cheery glow of a log fire.....

Tel. 07790 685315

"Wayne Goss'et."........Traditional Joiner and Manufacturer. Fully Qualified Joiner and Cabinet Maker of 20 years experience. A visit to his website, will show you the time and patience,  fine skill and care to detail, that goes into his work. As well as his more intricate furnishings & pieces, he also manufactures doors & windows etc.

Tel (01888) 551781 or visit his website @ www.wooden.mysite.orange.co.uk-wheels

"P+D Mini Diggers & Tool Hire" MAINS of WHITEHILL, Banff, Banffshire. AB45 3ER. They offer a full range of services for all your excavation requirements....Building, Gardening, Paddock Maintenance, D.I.Y. Plants and Trailers. Info. in their brochure, or visit their site @ www.pdminidiggers.co.uk.

Tel (01261) 851826 or 07845 407086.

"Debbie Bolbot"......Works locally full time, as a professional, qualified cook.....she also offers her services for small catering functions....and is also happy to bake cakes etc. for your special occasions, when maybe you don't have the time. We have not yet sampled her "goodies", but I would think it would be well up to standard. A very happy kind of person and I would think, very helpful and approachable.

Contact her by tel. (01542) 870745.

REG GALE....."ExperiencedWoodturner".

It is always good to discover a real craftsman of the "Old School"....And in Reg, with more than 30 years experience in this skilled and unique field, you will have found someone who easily falls into this category. A person who not only cares (and takes pride) about the work he produces....but is reliable.

If you are looking for something of real quality, that is unique and special, whether for yourself , or your friends, Reg could be the man to contact.

Wooden Clocks, Wall Plaques, Goblets, Bowls, Spurtles, Spinning Tops.......OR IN FACT ANYTHING (up to 30" in diameter).

Many of the goods above are made to order, but also sold at the many "fairs" etc. he attends. When not there he can be contacted at the contact address etc below.

Contact Reg at.... "KNOCKDURN CROFT" Portsoy, Banff. AB45 2YL. Tel (01261) 843821, or email, reg@btinternet.com.

Reg has a "WEBSITE UNDER CONSTRUCTION"....This will follow very soon !!

"Angie Mackenzie"......Business Development. Website www.aloe-living.info

Suggest you might like to visit this website......it certainly could be for you, if you are looking for an opportunity to earn a little (or a lot) of EXTRA INCOME.

(We are not in any way associated with this business....at least not at the time of writing this. However after reading through their website....maybe we should be !!) Check it out....you may feel the same way.

from their text...."Extra Income/Financial Independence/Owning your own business/More time & freedom/Meeting new people/Personal development/Helping others/Secure retirement income".

Would you like to know how to achieve this without compromising your current commitments?

Call...Tel. (01343)890395, Mob.07740)679505, email, angiemackenzie@btinternet.com, or, web. www.aloe-living.info

"PAINTERS & DECORATORS" LTD.

Ian J. Wilson.... 2 PERIMETER SPUR, Pinefield Industrial Estate, ELGIN, IV30 6AQ.

"Scottish Decoration Federation Member"

Rob. MacKenzie, (Director) and his friendly, qualified time-served staff, are maybe the first people to contact, if you require a first class professional job done efficiently and at an affordable price.

In this case, no job, is too large or too small. Whether your interest is in that large commercial enterprise, or simply..."it really is time to re-decorate that room" give Rob Mackenzie a call....he is very friendly, helpful and approachable....and you have the guarantee of a professional job, from qualified decorators, that take pride in their work. (ESTABLISHED since 1975).

Tel.(01343) 547727 / 54111, or Fax.(01343) 544111, or email, ijwilsonltd@aol.com

"Norlaggan Guesthouse".........Aberlour.

If you are looking for the best in warm, welcoming, accommodation, Ros and Ken's "3 STAR" guest house, I suggest, may be the place for you and your family. Their "3 stars" reflects the high standards they offer, not only in the way of every aspect of quality, comfortable acccommodation, but also their relaxed, but attentive approach to detail and general wefare of their guests. Aberlour is situated in lovely Speyside. And the majestic River Spey, offering the best in fishing and riverside walks, runs by their Guesthouse, at the bottom of their spacious garden. With the warmth of the welcome you receive throughout your stay, and the overwhelming beauty of the area, however long or short your stay....you will wish it was longer.

Start of by checking their great website @ www.norlaggan.co.uk Or contact Ros & Ken by telephone (01340) 871270. for a holiday to remember.

 CHECK OUT THIS NEW SERVICE ~ SOMETHING SPECIAL.... for everyone ~ ********** "CATRINA'S PERSONAL NEW IRONING SERVICE"*************

What's better than someone doing ALL your ironing for you....... at a "really very special low price" ??

Someone who also collects your clothes to be ironed at your convenience and then delivers your freshly ironed clothes quickly....Offering you a convenient, and efficicient, fast, quality and personal service, consistently.

Catrina offers a Local  "FREE" Collection & Delivery Sevice, within 5 miles radius of "Finechty"..... a nominal extra charge for  pick up & collection outwith this area.

Only £10 per BLACK BAG. And an even better, very special price for O.A.P's + single parents....ONLY £8 per Black Bag.

Catrina can even take your "Avon Order" at the same time if you wish....(YOUR FRIENDLY, LOCAL, AVON REPRESENTATIVE.)....call her now.

TEL. (01542) 832192. Mob.(07800)793875.

"Distant Hills Guest House"......the name alone makes you want to jump in the car and get there as quickly as possible. Whatever the reasons, or whatever the numbers, this could be the holiday you will always remember warmly and fondly.

As a couple you may be looking for a quiet, relaxing holiday away from the family....or maybe even a romantic break. Are you searching for an area that can provide you with both? Whether on your own, or with the family, "Distant Hills" will give you the choice. In one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. maybe visit as well www.highland-glens.co.uk/ There you will find a time and a place for calmness or a time for more energetic activities if you and your family are that way inclined.

I am not sure why I feel the need to tell you this, visit  the website @ www.distanthills.com  Peter, Lesley and their daughter Morgan are one of the finest, friendliest, families we have ever met....they will make you very welcome.

You wont forget them...or your highland holiday.

Visit their website above, or tel, (01397) 712452....you will be glad you did.