Auction 2015

Presented by Sir Michael Strang Steel Bt. CBE, Philiphaugh Estate Office, SELKIRK, Scottish Borders, TD7 5LX.

Website: salmonviewingcentre.com

Two days' salmon fishing for two rods on the River Ettrick, a tributary of the River Tweed and can be fished from the bank or by wading.

This Lot was won in 2014 by Heather Trust project manager Patrick Laurie, who enjoyed fishing in beautiful surroundings near the historic town of Selkirk.

Many fish were seen in early November, including some spectacular leaping at the specially designed weir at Philiphaugh.

To be taken by arrangement with the Philiphaugh Estate Office between 15th September 2015 and 30th November 2015.

Presented by The Earl of Dalhousie, Dalhousie Estate Office, Brechin Castle, BRECHIN, Angus, DD9 6SG.

Website: www.dalhousieestates.co.uk

Fishing is let over the Upper and Lower Beats of the Edzell Water (West Bank only) on the River North Esk. The middle beat is not included.

There are ten named pools. The upper beat extends from below the Gannochy Bridge on the Fettercairn Road to the Suspension Bridge by Edzell Village and the Lower Beat runs from the top of the Lyn Martin Pool down to the confluence of the North Esk and the West Water.

To be taken this season by arrangement with the donor.

Presented by James C A Burnett of Leys, Banchory Business Centre, Burn O'Bennie Road, BANCHORY, Kincardineshire, AB31 5ZU.

Website: www.leysestate.com

One day's fishing for two rods on Crathes Castle Home Water on the River Dee.

The Crathes Castle Water stretches for two and a half miles of the left bank, immediately below Banchory.

The fishing is divided into two beats each with four major pools. There is a maximum of two rods on each beat and the rods will change beats at one o'clock in the afternoon.

Fishing can be from the bank or by wading. All the pools are accessible by car. Each beat has a hut with a fire and toilet. There is a full time ghillie and a second available, if requested in advance.

To be taken on Tuesday 21st July 2015 by arrangement with the donor.

Presented by Finegand Estate Ltd, Glenshee, BLAIRGOWRIE, Perthshire, PH10 7QB.

An excellent opportunity for two rods to try this small but easily fished river in beautiful scenery. This is fly only, and fishes well from June onward.

Each beat is approximately 1½ miles long. Although it is definitely classed as a spate river, fish can be caught in all waters. The Shee Water, which is the head waters of the river Ericht and a tributary of the Tay, provides exciting salmon fishing, where sport can be expected to come thick and fast. It can be extremely prolific – fishing well late in the season.

This has always proved to be a popular lot with our bidders.

To be taken during 2015 - date by arrangement with the donor, who can also provide the successful bidder with a list of local accommodation.

Presented by Moray Estates, Estates Office, Berryley, FORRES, Morayshire, IV36 2ST.

Website: www.morayestates.co.uk

One day’s fishing for two rods on the Lower Dounduff Beat of the River Findhorn.

The River is set within a very picturesque part of Moray and is a spate river. The Lower Dounduff beat is spectacular with views along the gorge but is challenging and requires a certain level of fitness. The 2013 catch statistics reported 32 salmon and grilse, averaging 7.4 lbs (best 16lbs) and 2014 catch statistics reported 12 salmon and grilse caught, averging 8.2lbs (best 14lbs).

Please note conservation rules apply, the details of which can be obtained from the Estate by the successful bidder.

To be taken on Monday 7th September 2015.

Presented by Lord Forbes, Forbes Estate Office, Keig, ALFORD, Aberdeenshire, AB33 8BL.

Website: www.castle-forbes.com

One day’s fishing for two rods on the Castle Forbes Beat of the River Don which flows through some of the most picturesque landscape on its entire length.

Good Beat management, of sensible rod numbers per Beat, has produced an average catch over the last five seasons of 114 and gives anglers every opportunity of an enjoyable day. Runs of sea-trout also occur and the Don has always been regarded as one of Scotland’s premier brown trout rivers. The fishing extends to some two miles of double bank upstream, and 1.5 miles double bank downstream of Keig Bridge, with a further 1 mile of single (left) bank only downstream below the double bank stretch.

To be taken by mutual agreement with the donor.

Accommodation is not included but is available at Castle Forbes at the special rate for fishermen. For more information see the Castle Forbes website.

Presented by Major Alastair Riddell, Balintyre House, Chesthill Estate, Glen Lyon, Perthshire, PH15 2NH.

Website: www.chesthill.com

2 days’ wild brown trout fishing for two rods on the River Lyon, in a beautiful Perthshire glen near Kenmore. If the day is right, the use of an upstream dry fly can produce prolific results, with wonderful brown trout of up to 2+ lbs to be had.

May – July suggested, then September.

A Ghillie can be arranged to brief on and escort.

There are plenty of local hotels, B&Bs, cottages and the Famous Fortinghall Hotel nearby.

Date to be taken in 2015 (April – October) and to be arranged with the donor.

Presented by Major Alastair Riddell, Balintyre House, Chesthill Estate, Glen Lyon, Perthshire, PH15 2NH.

Website: www.chesthill.com

1 day’s salmon fishing for two rods on the Chesthill Beat of the River Lyon.

The attendance of a ghillie can be arranged.

The owner has a policy of catch and release throughout the season.

There are plenty of good local hotels, etc. The Famous Fortinghall Hotel is nearby.

Come and enjoy a delightful place.

Date to be taken during the weeks of 10-15 and 17-22nd August 2015. Recommendations from and to be arranged with the donor.

Presented by The Duke of Buccleuch, Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill, DG3 4AQ.

Website: www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk

1 day’s fishing for 2 rods on one of the private Castle Beats at Drumlanrig.

Drumlanrig Fishings cover a stretch of the River Nith, which is the largest river in Dumfries & Galloway, and one of its tributaries, the River Scaur, to give a total of 10.5 miles of fishing. Within that there are two beats on the River Nith where fishing is more exclusive and restricted to a maximum of 5 rods at one time.  These beats are referred to as the Lower Castle Beat and the Middle Castle Beat and contain both low and high water pools. These beats are located within the grounds of the Estate with Drumlanrig Castle as a backdrop.

To be taken between 28th September – 30th November 2015.

Dates to be arranged with the donor.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Scottie Dog Heathergem Brooch. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Dimensions: 35mm x 25mm

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Rannoch Swirl Silver Plated Heathergems Ring. Fully adjustable. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Cormag Celtic Silver Plated Heathergems Pendant. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Dimensions: 24mm Diameter with 16mm Heathergem. 18” Plated Chain.

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Wee Heart Heather Sterling Silver Heathergems Pendant. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Dimensions: 12L x 12W mm. 16” Silver Chain.

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Scottish Celtic Triskele Heathergems Brooch in Pewter. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Dimensions: 51L x 51W mm.

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Stuart Brown, Heather Gems, Heathergems Visitor Centre and Shop, 22 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5BX.

Website: www.heathergems.com

Oval Silver Plated Heathergems Bangle. Made from Scottish Heather, hand crafted in Scotland.

The heather is collected in the Perthshire hills and the stems are dried and shot blasted to remove the bark. They are dyed various colours using natural dyes and then the stems of different colours are mixed and compressed into a block. The block is then cut into slices and individual pieces are cut, shaped and filled before being lacquered and set into decorative metal fittings using Celtic and Scottish designs.

Dimensions: 170mm wire circumference.

Heathergems are unique and no two are ever the same.

Presented by Richard Vainer, M Vainer Ltd, 15 Greville Street, LONDON, EC1N 8SQ.

This unique day for two people will take you to the only remaining diamond cutting workshop in London's famous jewellery quarter 'Hatton Garden'.

You will be given an introduction into the hidden world of the diamond trade, including all areas of rough and polished diamonds. Not only will you get an insight into the formation and background of rough diamonds but also you'll be able to see a master craftsman cutting and polishing diamonds. If you're brave enough, you'll be invited to sit at the polishing wheel!

You will be taken to lunch at the nearby 'Bleeding Heart' Tavern, dating back to the 16th century, and after lunch you will be given an introduction to grading polished diamonds via the 4c's - Colour, Clarity, Carat and Cut.

You will see and handle some very unusual and rare stones as well as some beautiful natural fancy coloured diamonds.

This isn't a guarantee you will end the day as an expert, but you are promised a fun and fascinating day!

Date by arrangement with the Donor.

Presented by John Apthorp, The Field House Farm, 29 Newlands Avenue, Radlett, Herts. England, WD7 8EJ.

5 Tickets for Box number 40 at The Royal Albert Hall to see Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga on Tuesday 9th June 2015 8pm.

Tickets for this performance have already sold out.

Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga will perform together at the Royal Albert Hall in these very special concerts in support of WellChild, the national charity for seriously ill children which has Prince Harry as its Patron.

The charity concerts celebrate Cheek to Cheek, the duo’s new collaborative jazz album which features classic jazz standards sung by Gaga and Bennett in a combination of duets and solo performances, and will see the singers backed on stage by both big band and live orchestra.

★★★★ "Cheek to Cheek reiterates Bennett’s easy charm and flawless pitch, and shows Gaga in a fascinating new light. Pop's odd couple strike gold" Daily Mail.

★★★★"Two accomplished vocalists having fun – Bennett keeps it suave, Gaga is a wonder" The Guardian.

★★★★ “What sounded on paper like a gimmick, turned out to be a match made in heaven.” Daily Telegraph (live show review from Brussels). 

Presented by John Apthorp, The Field House Farm, 29 Newlands Avenue, Radlett, Herts. England, WD7 8EJ.

5 tickets in Box number 40 at the Royal Albert Hall for the Four Seasons & Mozart Requiem by Candlelight on Saturday 6th June 2015 at 7.30pm.

Two great masterpieces, plus a selection from Handel’s Water Music Suites staged in an evocative candlelit style setting.

Mozart Festival Orchestra – In full 18th Century costume.

London Philharmonic Choir.

Michael Bawtree – conductor.

Keri Fuge – soprano.

Kathryn Rudge – mezzo soprano.

Andrew Dickinson – tenor.

Andrew McTaggart – bass-baritone.

Crispian Steele-Perkins – trumpet soloist.

David Juritz – violin soloist.

Presented by Simon Thorp, Director of The Heather Trust. The Heather Trust, Newtonrigg, Holywood, Dumfries, Scotland, DG2 0RA.

An opportunity for two people to sail on an exciting 32ft trimaran yacht in the glorious waters surrounding the islands to the south of Oban where the scenery is without equal and where a variety of wildlife is likely to be seen.

No previous experience is required. The day will start from Craobh Haven marina at about 10 a.m ( www.craobhmarina.co.uk) and return will be about 6p.m.

The exact route to be followed will depend on the weather and tides on the day. All food, and drinks, and safety equipment will be provided, and it may be possible to provide some waterproof clothing by arrangement.

To be taken on Saturday 29th August 2015 or on another day by agreement.

B&B accommodation is available close to the marina.

The boat is in Denmark for the winter 2014-15, and the Lot may have to be postponed if it is not possible to get the boat to Craobh Haven in time. To see what these boats are capable of, see the promotional video at http://goo.gl/8wPJvm

Presented by Find Wine.

Website: http://findwine.co.uk/

Find Wine is presenting a wine tasting at your home for up to 10 guests. The evening can be tailored to your needs, whether that is a tasting of more traditional wines, or a chance to try something a bit different, Find Wine will be able to organise it.

Can be arranged in London, Yorkshire and Dumfriesshire.

Date to be arranged with the donor. Some travel restrictions might apply.

Presented by Edward Chadfield in conjunction with Clark Taylor at the Hilton Dunkeld Shooting School and the Hilton Dunkeld House Hotel. Hilton Dunkeld House Hotel, Dunkeld, Perthshire, PH8 0DX, Scotland.

A chance to try shooting with Muzzle loading shotguns.

Everything supplied.

Afternoon tea for two is also being offered at the Hilton Dunkeld House Hotel.

Edward Chadfield offers an introduction to shooting and collecting Muzzle Loading Shotguns ably assisted by Clark Taylor at the Hilton Dunkeld Shooting School  http://www.countyclays.co.uk

Edward has spent a lifetime in the world of shooting and conservation and was the founder of the Yeaveley Estate Shooting School in Derbyshire some 50 years ago. He now lives in hiding in Perthshire. One time Big Game Hunter, World record holder and collector of old shotguns. His sories of old shooing days are legendry.

The successful bidder could bring a friend if they wish, who is welcome to join in too.

The successful bidder will be shown some of Edward’s collection and be helped to load and shoot a Muzzle Loader. Clark Taylor will be on hand to assist with hitting the Clays, and the golden rule is to laugh every five minutes!

Presented by The North Harris Trust, Tigh an Urrais, Tarbet, ISLE OF HARRIS, Outer Hebrides, HS3 3DB.

Website: www.north-harris.org

A day’s guided mountain walking on the one hundred square mile North Harris Trust Estate in the Outer Hebrides, provided by the North Harris Ranger Service.

There will be good chances of seeing some of Scotland’s most exciting bird species, including golden eagles, and other wildlife. This unique opportunity is available for up to four people and tailored specifically to suit your wishes, whether you would like to watch or photograph the wildlife, flora and fauna, this will be a day to remember.

North Harris is a unique and important place for wildlife and the open landscape provides excellent opportunities for viewing many of the area’s most spectacular wildlife. Whilst most of the walking will follow good footpaths, people will need to be reasonably fit and active. Special arrangements may be arranged for people with reduced mobility though this will inevitably limit the opportunities and scope of the experience.

The North Harris Trust can supply you with details of accommodation available locally and give you travel advice, if required.

To be taken between 1st April & 31st August by arrangement with the donor.

Jointly presented by Kelso Races Ltd and The Duke of Roxburghe.

Website: www.kelso-races.co.uk & www.roxburghe.net

A fantastic opportunity to enjoy the luxury of bed & breakfast accommodation in a double/twin room at the unique Roxburghe Hotel together with race tickets for four people at Kelso Races, the friendliest racecourse in Britain.

Kelso racecourse is steeped in history and tradition. With a huge respect for the sport, Kelso Races offers high quality National Hunt racing in picturesque surroundings. The four race tickets are for the Scottish Borders National Day meeting on Sunday, 6th December 2015, and with a drink to be shared in the Director's box, a truly memorable day is waiting for the successful bidder.

Set in acres of beautifully landscaped gardens The Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course is of one of Scotland’s most charming and intimate country houses. Guests enjoy access to the hotel’s own 18-hole championship golf course and rights to fish on the world-famous River Tweed, as well as a full range of country pursuits. Legendary super-chef Albert Roux OBE, KFO recently opened a Chez Roux restaurant in the hotel, which combines the best French cooking with the finest seasonal Scottish ingredients – to critical acclaim.  In 2015 The Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course was named Scottish Golf Hotel of the Year at the prestigious Scottish Hotel Awards.

Two double/twin rooms have been reserved for the night of Sunday, 6th December 2015, including full Scottish Breakfast to look forward to on the Monday morning before you depart.

To be taken on Sunday, 6th December 2015 by arrangement with Kelso Races Ltd and The Roxburghe Hotel.

Presented by Alexander & Susan Dalgety, Boathouse Cottage, Norham, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED, TD15 2JZ.

Website: www.boathousecottage.co.uk

A weekend or short break for up to seven people at the four star, self catering, Boathouse Cottage.

In a tranquil setting just outside Norham village, the cottage commands stunning views onto and across the River Tweed. Located midway between the Cheviots and Lammermuirs this is the perfect holiday cottage for exploring the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland. Standing on its own overlooking the banks of the lower River Tweed, Boathouse Cottage is suitable for both anglers and shooters.

Tweed fishing does not end until 30th November. There is shooting around the area until the end of January and Spring Salmon fishing starts again on 1st February.

To be taken by arrangement with the donor between 1st November 2015 and 19 March 2016 (Christmas and New Year excepted).

Presented by Ian Burril, House of Mark, Glenesk, Angus, DD9 7YZ.

Website: www.houseofmark.co.uk

A two night stay in a double or a twin room in the House of Mark guesthouse. The House of Mark is a fabulous guest house, formerly a manse, set within two acres at the foot of the Cairngorms National Park and is open all year round. With stunning scenery and spectacular countryside, within an area steeped in history, this is an idyllic slice of Scotland.

There are fantastic walks from the doorstep, on route to The Queen’s Well and Mount Keen, with Loch Lee nearby. House of Mark overlooks the Water of Mark and, along with the Water of Lee, forms the river North Esk close by which is renowned for salmon and sea trout.

After a day spent observing wildlife, walking, climbing, fishing, stalking, kayaking, or Mountain Biking, you can sit in the tranquil walled garden and listen to the wildlife with the water flowing by, or relax in front of an open fire.

Dinner can be arranged seperately with the donor.

Available Monday – Thursday (excluding August). Dates to be arranged with the donor.