Please accept my apologies for producing an unusually short and rushed Newsletter, I had hoped to wait to see how the Foot and Mouth outbreak was developing before writing this, however Yorkle, our esteemed Treasurer, has threatened me with GBH unless I get this out to you all quickly in order for him to get his numbers/tickets sorted out in time for our main annual social event. Being easily intimidated, I have had no option but to produce this now. Points to note are as follows-:

ANNUAL BUFFET DANCE:
It will be held on Friday 6th April (7.30 for 8.00) as usual at one of the best venues in the area, namely the British Legion Club in Beauly, where the drink is cheap and Hilda and her colleagues make us all most welcome. There are only a limited number of tickets available, so please 'phone Yorkie quickly on 01463 782785 to book a ticket for another memorable night. Ticket cost only £10 each and include a truly first class buffet, plus great music from George and Jill who performed for us so well last year. The tickets should be paid for at least one week before the night and donations of brown nectar or whatever for the raffle will be gratefully received, preferably beforehand, by Yorkie or Frank Durdle, whether you are attending or not.

FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE:
As you will all be aware, Britain is currently being ravaged by a virtually unstoppable outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease. The BAC Committee sensibly closed our River and Firth Fishings on Saturday 3rd March in an effort to help stop the spread of the disease and to support our anxious farming neighbours who, without exception, provide access and support for our various river improvements and other initiatives throughout the year. Stock in this and other Highland and Lowland areas which have had potential contact with infected animals are probably being slaughtered as you read this. Our precautionary approach was eminently responsible in the circumstances. Please bear with us; thankfully this situation does not arise very often. We will post a notice in the window of Morrison the Ironmongers, Beauly whenever we can relax or remove the current restrictions. Please 'phone Frank on 01463 872749 if you require access information more urgently.

PERMITS:
Sorry, but you must purchase your 2001 permits by 30th April this year if you wish to avoid being displaced by potential members on our lengthy Waiting List. Seems odd this year, however rules is rules. While mentioning rules, please remember to get your returns in on time at the end of the season, otherwise Dave Sellers, our 'fine enforcer', may have to send out even stronger letters next year; you have all been warned! Gosh, that sounded ominous!