Ballater & crathie Community magazine - Ballater Community

improvements at Crathie Opportunity Holidays.The Floral Art Group, with Jenny Houstonas Chairwoman, has been busy developing the2013 programme. Edna Matthews, a well knownand popular local demonstrator, will present theApril event. At least two outings are planned forthe year as well as visits from other floral artistswho are sure to inspire us with new ideas andinspirations. See the Eagle diary for some details.As usual posters advertising forthcoming meetingswill be posted throughout the village.Ballater CommunityEnterprise Ltd byPaddy WrightBallater Caravan ParkAfter 5 years of negotiation with AberdeenshireCouncil, a lease has finally been signed.This allows BCE to operate the Park on behalf ofthe Community until 2052, although it has beenoperated by us since April last year.13Thanks must go to all who havecontributed to a very successfulseason, resulting in a healthy tradingsurplus. Plans are now underwayto replace the site offices and makethe arrival point more welcoming. It is hoped tofinance the operation by using the trading surplus,supplemented by grants from external funders.Some minor improvements and maintenance arepresently in progress.We are glad that the wardens have agreed toreturn before the opening on 29 th March this year.Let’s hope that the weather is kinder this season.Last year’s constant rain made grass cuttingvery difficult and probably reduced bookings bytouring caravans.As this is a Community project, we wouldwelcome any suggestions or offers of help, whichshould be made to the BRD office or any director.A reminder that our website is ballatercaravanpark.com, where an online booking system is available.AlexAndrAHotel• Lunch served 12 to 2pm• Evening meals 5pm to 9pm• En-suite accommodation• Children welcome• Local real ales• In the Good Beer Guide 201212 Bridge Square, Ballater013397 55376www.alexandrahotelballater.co.uk