No Fish in the Markets but Fish From Boat - 1st

Still Quiet - 30th April 2008

No too much happening in the markets today but hopefull of some fish from a boat working on the West of Scotland. The weather here has been rather wet to say the least and not too sure if the Seafood Bar will be out this weekend as the weather may put a halt to the Strathisla Riding Club meeting on Sunday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Start of Another Week - 28th April 2008

The weekends are becoming shorter and shorter. Either that, or I am getting Older!! Not too much in the markets today with only 20 boxes up the road from Fraserburgh market. The troops are home early today as their is not too much work for them today. Fingers crossed for later in the week. Spent the weekend with the Whitehills Cubs & Beavers in Cullen for an overnight stay. Must have walked the boys in excess of 5 miles in glorious sunshine over Saturday & Sunday. Nothing too much planned for the rest of the week but I hope you have noticed the changes made to the website since last week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back from ESE 2008 in Brussels - 25th April 2008

Well folks, I am back from the biggest seafood show in this part of the world having caught up with some existing customers and hopefully some new customers. The show was busy and spent some time looking at the vast ammount of machinery that can be used in the seafodd industry. Paid some particular attention to a machine that will help us increase our sales to independant stores with a tray sealer that will do the trick. Had some delays coming back through Terminal 5 but my luggage was never lost. Had a look at Gordon Ramsay's restaurant in T5. The prices were not too bad but you can get your fish cheaper at Downie's!! Some fish in the markets today with 25 boxes up from Fraserburgh market and we will have to wait and see what happens in the market on Saturday. Have the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday so hopefully some good weather will bring some people out to try our goods. Have a great weekend and speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Galore! - 21st April 2008

Just as the title says, plenty of fish for both the factory & shop today with 35 boxes from Fraserburgh market and 23 bins from a vessel called the "Russa Taign" so that should keep the troops busy. Beautiful weather at the weekend so plenty of time to get some of the odd jobs up to date arround the house. Euan, the young lad that looks after the shop on Saturday's, was the winner in the District banner competition for the Air Cadets so he was chuffed. That means that Euan is off to Perth for the Scottish Championships in June. By the way, Euan is my son!!! Speak to you later in the week as Alan Downie and me are off the Brussels on Tuesday morning.Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sun Always Shines on the Righteous - 18th April 2008

The sun is shinning, the sky is blue and their is some fish coming up the road from Fraserburgh Market. Still plenty to do in the factory with the possibility of more fish in Saturday's market for the start of the week. Alan Downie and myself are off the Brussels for the European Seafood Exposition on Tuesday for a few days but I am sure that the "Blog Hijacker" will be posting some messages for you all. Have a great weekend. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fresh Fish for the Shop & factory - 16th April 2008

A beautiful morning in Whitehills after a very frosty start. Some fish for both the shop & factory but their could be some wind in towards the end of the week. Orders out today as well as on Thursday with the retail shops starting to take some more. Off to Inverurie to meet with Mitchells Dairy who are about to refurbish their shop in the Square. Hopefully the new shop will allow for more of our fish to be dispalyed to everybody's advantage. Then off the J G Ross who have a number of Costcutter stores in the North East to see if we can be of benefit to them. Fingers crossed for a beneficial day on Thursday. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sorry for the Delay - 15th April 2008

Well folks, I am back. Sorry for the lack of news but hopefully normal service will be resummed. Some fish in the markets today and we have been getting some fish from northern markets to keep the factory ticking over. Winter League golf now finished with Stuart & me taking second last place in the league but it does mean longer lies on Sunday mornings. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The End of Another Week - 4th April 2008

Friday once again and 45 boxes coming up the road for the factory and shop. Packing up more of our Whole Tail Scampi as well as the Haddock Goujons. Out on my travels today to Turriff, Oldmeldrum and Tarves to see if we can arrange for deliveries to some new outlets. Fingers crossed but the reaction from the retails was good. I have to give them a call for next week's delivery run. Hope you all have a great weekend and that we do not get the snow that is forecast. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

And the Rain Falls Again - 3rd April 2008

So much for the brighter spell of weather - the rain is back. Suprisingly not too much good quality fish in the markets today so not much to shout about. I would have thought that with the Fishing Exhibition in Glasgow the markets would have been brimming with fish. Shows you what I know!! Plenty of other things to keep the troops going for part of the day but it looks like an early finish for the factory. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much Happening Today - 2nd April 2008

Things are pretty quiet on the fish front with nothing too much landed in the markets. Hopefull that some boats might land for Thursdays markets as a number of skippers could be away to the Fishing Exhibition in Glasgow over the weekend. Getting the Seafood Bar out of storage later today as we will have to start getting it ready for our first outing on the 13th of April. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish for the Factory - 1st April 2008

Not going to bother with any April Fool's jokes today! Have been caught out by Joyce, Alan Downie's sister, about my boot lace being undone!! Got some fish from Klash last night to keep the factory ticking over for today at least. The Wednesday run orders are being prepared and the soup is as popular as ever. Cullen Golf Club are to be taking fish from Downies so if you are ever up in the Cullen area, pop into the golf club, speak to Anne and taste our fish from her excellent menu. Not much else doing and will speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Summer Time at Last - 31st March 2008

I can only hope that this fine weather is not our summer! Some fish from the West coast for the factory today with Alan Downie away on his travels to Kinlochbervie to see if he can get some nice fat haddocks caught just off Rockall by one of the local Whitehills boats. Fingers crossed as their does not seem to be too much other fish on the horizon for the start of the week. Changed the clocks yesterday but forgot to set my alarm so I missed the final golf game of the Winter League. No cooking demonstrations this week so a week at home. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cracking Haddock for the Shop - 28th March 2008

Well, it's Friday at long last and we have some West coast haddock for the shop. Absolute stonkers they are!! Breading and starting to put some pies into cold store stock for the summer months but apart from that, no too much happening. Getting the fish ready for the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday so hopefully, the weather will be a bit better than the rain we have today. Alan Downie is on his last day of his holiday so he will be back behind the wheel on Monday - you should see his "in tray" with all the correspondence to be looked at. That may make him think about holidays in the future!! Have a great weekend and speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Apprentice - What a Laugh!! - 27th March 2008

Having watched "The Apprentice" on BBC1 last night and the teams efforts in trying to sell fish, I am glad that Alan Sugar said that selling fish should be left to those that know what they are doing. For that, just browse through our site and see what great quality of fish we have to offer. The best bit was seeing the teams trying to identify the diffferent types of fish they had to sell and work out the prices for selling. Some one should tell them that for great prices, they should be contacting Downies for their fish. Still no fish in the markets but some fish due later today for the shop from the West coast so that will mean some good fat haddocks. If you call into the shop either today or at the weekend, try not to be too hard on the new shop assistant as he is only learning - and he is my son so give him a break!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Everything That Floats is Gone!! - 26th March 2008

Now that the weather has broken, all of the boats from Fraserburgh are out so hopefully we should get some fish at the start of next week. Plenty of work do be done in the factory to keep the troops busy. Have been speaking to Alan Downie who is on a skiing holiday earlier today. Plenty of snow and no broken bones - yet!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Cold Night - 25th March 2008

Still no fish in Fraserburgh but 3 boats went out on Sunday/Monday. Good luck to them with the weather. Looks like it is going to be a quiet week ahead. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Winter is Still Hanging On! - 24th March 2008

Back after a weekend in Glasgow with the family to a bitter northerly gale but no snow unlike other parts of the North East. Plenty of fish from Friday & Saturday of last week with all of the boats in sheltering from the gales. Looks like their will be very little fish, if any, until this time next week as the forecast is not looking to great for the rest of the week. Some new customers from my promotion run last Thursday so the word is getting out in the Ellon/Hatton direction. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Long Time, No Blog Cast - 19th March 2008

Sorry for being so long in blogging with you but we have been short staffed and have had plenty of fish for the factory. With Alan Downie away sking next week, the unofficial blogcaster (Chunky) has been down to the markets in Fraserburgh just to get his eye back in. I am sure that the rest of the buyers will take him under their wing and help him if need be. The "old timers" like like Ally Thompson and Alex McKay will keep an eye on him, not that they will need to. Fish from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets yesterday & today. Away on my travels on Thursday to spread the word of Downies to some retail shops in the Peterhead/Ellon area so fingers crossed for that. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish at Last! - 17th March 2008

Happy St Patrick's Day to all of our Irish customers first of all. Some fish in Fraserburgh today with 31 boxes coming up the road as well as 16 boxes from the "Budding Rose" which landed in Macduff. Looking at the weather forecast for the rest of the week, it looks like their is going to be northerly wind right up until Friday so that does not look too good for fish for the rest of the week. Won at golf yesterday so that is 2 weeks in a row that we have won. Off to Oldmeldrum tonight to cook for 30 ladies so I will let you know how that went on Tuesday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Home Early - 14th March 2008

With no fish today all of the troops were sent home by 10.30 this morning. Had some fish from the "Budding Rose" but not enough to keep everybody going for the whole day. Hope that the weather holds for the weekend. have a great one. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Good Haddock for the Shop - 13th March 2008

Got some great haddock for the shop today but other than that, things are really quiet. The workers are preparing prawns for our whole tail scampi that is becoming very popular indeed. Fish cakes were also made this week whilst the factory has been quiet. Hopefull of some fish on Friday but the majority of the boats have not been out yet due to the poor weather we have been experiencing over the last few days. Strange to think that when the sky is blue and the sun is shinning. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Change in the Weather - 12th March 2008

Well, we have had all the seasons in 1 day here today in Whitehills. Still no fish apart from the haddock from the "Budding Rose" that has been landing in Macduff. No fish landed in the markets today. Last night in Hatton was a success with an audience of 30 ladies who seemed to enjoy the demonstration and talk about what we do here in Whitehills. Seemed to be an interest from one of the local shop owners who may be interested in taking some of our fish to try. Watch this space!! Off to the Grampian Food Awards Dinner tonight with Alan Downie. May have a sore head on Thursday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Another Quiet Day on the Fish Front - 11th March 2008

Just as it says above, not much happening on the fish front today. Plenty of order going out and pies & bradies been made for our stock to cover us over the summer months. Was in Macduff last night giving a talk to Banff & Macduff Ladies Group about what we do here in Whitehills. Some familiar faces in the group who do come to the shop and hopefully some new faces to look out for. Off to Hatton tonight to give a demonstration to Bogbrae SWRI so I will let you know how that went on Wednesday. Wednesday nigh both Alan Downie and myself are off the Grampian Food Forum Awards Dinner at Inverurie. We had to do a written report on our Luxury Cullen Skink Soup in Most Successfull Product category for 2007. Fingers crossed but we are up against some big companies with massive product development budgets. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Weather Front - 10th March 2008

The wild storms that have hit parts of the UK have stayed well clear of Whitehills. We had a beautifull weekend of weather with sunshine yesterday but 1 torrential rain storm on Saturday morning. Apart from that, all quiet. Still no fish in the markets as the wind & fuel prices have kept the boats in port. No real idea of when we will receive a good quantity of fish but we have has some haddock & bits 'n' pieces from the "Budding Rose" on Saturday morning. Had to play golf without my partner on Sunday but as Anne Robinson says, "Stuart, you are the weakest link, Goodbye!!". Won the match on the 17th and I was playing some extraordinary golf on Sunday. Fingers crossed for some fish later in the week. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Beautiful Day in Whitehills - 7th March 2008

The sky is blue, the sea is calm and we have some of the freshest fish available today from the "Budding Rose" which landed for us in Macduff late last night. It pays to have good skippers that are willing to land on your doorstep. The fish will be just great for the shop but the factory is quiet today. Plenty of bradies being done for stock as well as some orders for retail units. The weather is looking good for the weekend but they are saying that we could have heavy snow here on Monday. Golf on Sunday so another 18 holes of pain & agony!! Speak to you later. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Lots of Rain but Still No Quantity of Fish - 6th March 2008

Plenty of rain through the night with a bit of flooding on the roads locally. Some boats still not out with only 31 boxes landed in Fraserburgh this morning. The Boss is off to Dublin on Friday to watch the rugby with some clients - lucky him!! Not expecting too much fish until the start/middle of next week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Boats are Away - 5th March 2008

With the wind dropping a bit, the baots from Peterhead are away to sea so that should mean some fish in the middle of next week. Half of the boats are away from Fraserburgh so some fish may be in over the weekend. Plenty of time to put pies & bradies into stock whilst the factory is quiet. Was in Fochabers last night giving a talk to Moray Field Club about what we do here in Whitehills. Seemed to go down well and hopefully we should see some new faces over the coming weeks. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Seas are Rough & the Wind Blows On - 4th March 2008

Looking out of the office window just now and all I can see are the waves crashing against the harbour wall, the wind continuing to blow from the North and no fish landed in Fraserburgh today. Some fish from a local Whitehills boat yesterday, the "Budding Rose" which should help with the shop for the next few days. The boats are still in harbour and it does not look like they will be getting away until the end of the week at the earliest if not next week. Looks like that the staff will be home early for most of this week and next week as well. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boy Is It Cold!! - 3rd March 2008

The wind has dropped but it is really cold with the breeze coming from the North. Not much fish landed in the markets today so it looks like an early finish for the factory today. The shop has been quiet today with it being so cold. The wedding on Saturday was a most enjoyable day out for all of the family - we all scrubbed up quite well!! The golf on Sunday was not so good and not because I had a hangover either - we just played badly!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish for the Shop - 29th February 2008

It always suprises me what each day can bring from the fish markets. Not expecting any fish to be landed, their was more than 3500 boxes in Peterhead with just over 500 boxes in Fraserburgh! 12 Boxes arrived safely from Fraserburgh. The weather looks like it is going to take a turn for the worse with the sky clouding over all the time. The wind has dropped slightly but I am expecting more over the coming hours. Wedding on Saturday and golf on Sunday so a busy weekend ahead. Hope you all have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

More Wind on the Way - 28th February 2008

Having just checked the weather forecast, it looks like their could be very little fish on the go till the start of next week. Their are quite a number of orders going away today so they should be delivered on Friday for all concerned. Quite a bit of wind starting overnight with gales for Saturday/Sunday. Not too good as I have a wedding on Saturday. Hope that my kilt does not blow up with the wind!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Ooops! Late Today - 26th February 2008

Sorry about that blog readers, how could I forget about you all. Some fish in Peterhead today with 23 boxes up for the factory. Also had some fish from Kinlochbervie last night which was a pleasant suprise for this morning. Some good fat haddocks for the shop. The wind has started to blow a bit more which is not good news for the markets at the end of the week but we will all have to wait and see. Had a cooking demo in Keith last night which seemed to go down well. The Deli Shop in Keith should be a bit bussier with some new customers looking for our fish for their tea. Off into Aberdeen tomorrow to meet some new buyers for some of our products - fingers crossed. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Poor Forecast for the Start of the Week - 25th February 2008

A bit of wind is due over the next few days which will result in a number of the boats not getting away until the middle of the week. We will have to wait and see what fish is available for later in the week. Not too much happening in the markets this morning with Fraserburgh harbour still got plenty of boats lying about. The Farmers Market in Macduff was a bit better this month but a lot of the traders stated that January & February are the quiet months so we will have to wait and see what happens in March. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Very Poor Day of Weather - 22nd February 2008

The wind is blowing, the hail has been falling the size of golf balls, the sun has been shinning-all in a days weather in Whitehills. The poor weather has blown a number of boats into Fraserburgh today but their is still the possibility of fish in Peterhead Market at the start of next week. 112 boxes from Fraserburgh and 36 boxes from Peterhead so that will keep us going for the start of next week. Plenty to choose from in the shop. No golf this weekend as I have a Thinking Day Service with Whitehills Cub Scouts on Sunday. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Fish is Landed - 21st February 2008

The boats are landing fish to a band playing just now. Plenty of fish in all of the markets and we have 118 boxes coming up the road today for the factory & shop. All of yesterday's orders are out for delivery so some people will be having fresh fish for tea tonight! The Farmers Markets this Saturday in Macduff so we are hoping for better weather than last month when the heavens opened just as the markets started! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Plenty to Do - 20th February 2008

Some fish in Fraserburgh with a full market in Peterhead but their is still plenty fish in the chill to process. 1 box of mixed fish up for the shop today and plenty more internet orders being dispatched again today. We must be doing something right as we are receiving more & more repeat orders as well as new customers keen to try our products. Looks like their could be a lot of fish in the markets over the next few days which should keep us going for the rest of the week and into the start of next week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Wonderfull World This Is. - 19th February 2008

The sun is shinning, the sky is blue and the fishermen are fishing to their hearts content. What more can a fish processor from Whitehills ask for? The factory is still busy from the fish bought over the last few days with only 28 boxes coming up the road today. Plenty of orders going out to the independant stores that we supply on a weekly basis. Good to keep the company profile going. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Difference 2 Days Makes! - 18th February 2008

Fish, fish, glorious fish!! The great weather at the end of the week has resulted in large landings of fish into all of the markets. On Saturday we had 150 boxes up the road with a further 170 boxes today. That should keep the factory busy for a couple of days. The weather is meant to break later in the week but fingers crossed for plenty more fish over the coming days. The shop has been quiet due to it being the mid-term break for the kids in Aberdeenshire. A couple of orders went away today for home delivery so at least some folk will be getting deliveries on Tuesday of wonderful fish for tea! Won at golf on Sunday!! A great day for a game of golf and even went to see a Vintage Ploughing Match Competition on Sunday afternoon just outside my back door. Who says live is not wonderful? Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It's Friday, We Have Fish in the Factory & Shop and the Sun is Shinning - 15th February 2008

Well, I hope that you have all finished reading your Valentine Cards that you got. It took me ages to read through all of mine!! (One!) The sun is shinning but their is still a chill in the air. 118 boxes from Fraserburgh this morning which should keep us going for the rest of the day. Alan Downie is expecting fish in the market on Saturday also so that should give us a start on Monday. The fish counter is bulging with a vast arrary of fish today and with the kids being on holiday , their has been a steady stream of customers in the shop. Forecast for the weekend is good so fingers crossed for the golf on Sunday. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish Coming Home - 14th February 2008

Not too much in the markets today but we have 32 boxes for the shop and the factory. A bit cooler here in Whitehills today but their is meant to be an improvement over the next few days. Have the local playgroup coming to visit us in the shop today so Mrs Murray better have some goodies on the counter for the kids to try. It is a great way to get the youngsters to try fish and I am sure that they will get some freebies for them to take back to the school to colour and read courtesy of Downies and Seafish. Better go and get the stuff all ready. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Sun Shines!! - 13th February 2008

What a beautiful day it is here in Whitehills this morning with the sky blue and the sun shinning. Got the fish we were promised late yesterday so that gives the factory something to work on today and part of Thursday. Their have been some changes to the website as you may have noticed this mroning and their will be more on the way. Please let us know what you think of the changes and if their is anything we can do to make your Downies Internet Shopping an easier and even more enjoyable experience. The shop in Whitehills has been quite busy today but I suppose that is the good weather taking people out for a drive. Speak to you later and remember, please let us know your thoughts on the changes. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish on the Way! - 12th February 2008

Fish is due to arrive later today from a boat landing in Peterhead this morning. That should keep the factory a bit busier than it has been of late. Alan Downie and I along with our partners attended a Grampian Food Forum dinner last night that launched this years "Taste of Grampian" which is on Saturday the 7th of June at Thainstone Mart in Inverurie. Look out for us at this years event. The guest speaker was Nick Nairn and he talked about the reasons for building a "Cook School" in Banchory and the main reason was the great quality of food that can be sourced in this part of the world. The sun is still shinning and their is a bit of heat in the sun. I only hope that this is not our summer!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Beautifull Sunny Monday - 11th February 2008

The sun is shinning, the sea is calm and the boats are all fishing. What more can you ask for. Not much fish today but hopefull for later in the week. Was not playing golf on Sunday as I was at the football in Aberdeen but my partner doubled our points in the league. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 8th February 2008

The weeks seem to be flying in just now. Only 18 boxes coming up the road so it does not look like that the machines will be going on today. Plenty of breading to be done again but it does keep the troops busy. The weather today has been exceptionally mild for the time of year. Not golfing on Sunday as I have been invited to the Aberdeen-Celtic game at Pitodrie. Nobody said that this job was easy. Hope that you all have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish At Last - 7th February 2008

Due to the high winds through yesterday and the night, their has been a better landing of fish in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead. Have 77 boxes coming from Fraserburgh for the shop & factory but not too sure if their will be more fish on Friday. Just have to wait and see. Still getting the chance to bread fish for our stock to cover the spring & summer months when we should be busy with haddock processing - fingers crossed anyway!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Just a Couple for the Shop - 6th February 2008

No I do not mean drinks!! Just a couple of boxes of fish for the shop today with still very little to choose from in the markets. The weather has been great and this should mean that the boats should have good fishing. Fingers crossed!! The weather in Whitehills today is bright but cold. Seasonal weather I suppose. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Flat as a Mill Pond But Stll No Fish - 5th February 2008

The sea is calm but their is still very little quantity of fish landed in any of the markets. Looks like an early finish for the staff today. The weather forecast is for rain throughout the day which may put a "dampner" on the shop. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing To Report for Today - 4th February 2008

Just as the title says, their is nothing to report from the markets due to the poor weather at the end of the week as well as over the weekend. Some of the boats only started to leave for the fishing grounds on Sunday evening so we will have to wait & see what happens for the rest of the week. Some of the boats may be working close in so we may have the chance of fish over the next few days. Still plenty of breading being done as well as soup for the local stores. No golf on Sunday which meant that we did not loose but we are still the strongest team in the league. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Waiting - 1st February 2008

So much for all of the snow we were expecting today. The wind is very strong but none of the white stuff. Got some fish yesterday with 166 boxes for both the shop & factory. Will have to wait and see what comes up the road for the weekend. Not too sure if their will be golf on Sunday due to the weather but I don't think that we will be winning the title this year!! Gave a great weekend if you get the snow. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Better Get The Sledges Looked Out! - 30th January 2008

If the weather man is anything to go by then it is going to be the first real snow of the winter over the next few days. Some fish laneded in the markets but nothing to shout home about. Still breading our haddock for the Internet shop as well as our retail customers. Hope to have better news over the next few days but if the snow is going to be as bad as forecast then I would be unsure about sending goods by courier. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fish Front. - 28th January 2008

Not too much happening today in the markets. It could be later in the week before we see any qnatity of fish landed. Heard that we can expect snow at sea level on Friday which should please the kids. Still plenty to do in the factory. Golf was a shambles on Sunday so I guess that you would not be suprised to learn that we are the strongest team in the league at the moment - holding every other team up at this stage!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sorry I am Late!! - 25th January 2008

Sorry for the delay in talking to you today. It must be the cold & wet that has made me slow down even more!! Some fish in the markets today but only 30 boxes up the road for the shop & factory. Plenty of work being done with our breading line rattling off the breaded fish like their is no tommorrow. Going to the Macduff Farmers Market on Saturday for the first time with our pies, bradies, breaded haddock, hot smoked salmon & Cullen Skink Soup. Will let you know on Monday how it all goes as well as the golf on Sunday, if the course is open!! Have a great weekend. Speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Bitterly Cold in Whitehills - 22nd January 2008

The sky is a bright red colour this morning which is not a good sign. Little to no fish in the markets today but still plenty of other things for the staff to do today. Golf was not a sucess on Sunday but it was a great day for a walk!! Hope to see more fish later in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 18th January 2008

Well how the days have flown in this week. Friday already with 74 boxes coming from Fraserburgh fish market for the factory & shop. The forecast for tonight is not too good with strong northerly winds so that may have an effect on the landings at the start of the week. Hope that you all have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty to Keep Us Going - 17th January 2008

With very little fish landed in Fraserburgh this resulted in the prices in Peterhead rising but with a chill full of fish, nothing is required for the factory or the shop. Cold weather due in again for the weekend but we have not had the flooding as is happening down south. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not As Bad as First Thought!- 16th January 2008

The wind did not effect us too much in Whitehills last night but it must have been bad enough offshore as their was quite a bit of fish in both Peterhead & Fraserburgh. 74 boxes from Fraserburgh & 166 from Peterhead which should keep the factory going for the rest of the week as I am unsure as to how much fish will be landed for the rest of the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Before the Gales!! - 15th January 2008

Getting ready to batten down the hatches before more gales hit us later tonight or early on Wednesday. Plenty of fish landed in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead and we have 151 boxes coming up for the factory & shop. Forgot to mention that we were thumped at the golf on Sunday but nothing changes there!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish at Last!!! - 14th January 2008

What a difference a day makes! Fish in Fraserburgh & Peterhead with a total on 103 boxes coming up the road for the shop & factory. That means that the machines will be on for the first time in 2008! Look forward to receiving your orders over the coming days. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

No Fish for Tea Tonight! - 11th January 2008

With less than 1,000 boxes of fish in total from Fraseburgh & Peterhead markets, it looks like it will have to be something else rather than fish for tea tonight. The weather is very cold here in Whitehills today with a frost starting as daylight comes in. The sea is calm but not too sure if their will be golf on Sunday as their is more rain forecast. Have to wait and see. Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Calm After the Storm - 10th January 2008

After all the wind & rain from yesterday, the seas are calm but still very little fish in the markets today. Still hopeful of some fish later this week if not at the start of next week. Just keep an eye on the blog because I will be shouting from the rooftops once we get some fish!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Wind Blows!! - 9th January 2008

What a night it was last night! The wind has been blowing and their is no sign of it letting up yet. Still no fish landed but I am for ever hopeful for later in the week. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Cold Frosty Day in Whitehills - 8th January 2008

Well their could be snow on the way if the forecaster is correct but we will have to wait & see. Still little to no fish landed in the markets but we are keeping our fingers crossed for later in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Normal Service has Been Resumed (Well Almost!) - 7th january 2008

If only it were true!! First day back of 2008 and not a fresh fish in the market at Fraserburgh. The poor weather after New Year has resulted in most of the boats only getting away last night and with poor weather due again this week, it is unlikely that we will have any quantity of fish until the start of next week. Just keep an eye on the blog for further updates on that front. Once we have fish to dispatch, why not have a change from turkey, chicken & beef and try some of the very easy recipies that are on our website or on the Seafish Scotland website. Have only had 1 game of golf over the holidays due to the course being closed due to flooding or snow & ice. We have doubled our points to 2 with a half match that was played!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It Has Been A Hectic Few Days!! - 20th december 2007

Well folks, not long now until Santa comes but only if you have been good boys & girls!! Fish is plentiful these last few days with the shop display just magical with all of the hard work done by Carol & Betty. Loads of orders have been dispatched over the last few days but no more can be sent which would ensure safe delivery. Hope to speak to you later but if I am too busy, I hope that on behalf of the Management and Staff at Downies, you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Peaceful & Prosperous New Year. many thanks for your kind support over the last 12 months and I look forward to hearing from you in 2008. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Fish has Started - 17th December 2007

What a freezing morning it is here in Whitehils. Some fish landed in the markets but not a HUGH amount of haddock. 101 boxes for the factory & shop with more expected later in the week. I have decided that golf is a stupid game after a dismal game on Sunday morning. Better luck next week?! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish to start on monday 15 december

Hi All As the title says we have some fish to start the day of on monday and by what Mr Downie has been saying there will be extreme amounts of fish at the middle of next week with all the boats tieing up for the christmas holidays so it will be all go till we finish on saturday bye for now Colin the blog hi-jacker ;-)

Bit of a Suprise - 14th December 2007

Hardly any fish in the markets today which came as a bit of a suprise. From 330 boxes in Fraserburgh, their are 9 boxes coming up the road for the shop & factory. Just as well that the "Blog Hijacker" has other work ready for the troops as it looks like it could be a short day for some. Not me or Chunky though. Cold morning with clear skies but Chunky will not see much of that as he will be updating more of the images for the internet shop. Your comments on the changes are always appreciated. Remember that the 19th of December is the last day for the dispatch of any orders. Looks like I will be golfing this weekend as the course is open. Should be interesting as it has been 5 weeks since I last played. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart factory Manager

Orders Coming In Thick & Fast - 13th December 2007

Just as I thought, as soon as I mention the last delivery date, the orders come flying in!! Hope that you have all been looking at the revised images for some of the breaded products. Chunky, or should I say "The Blog Hijacker", has been busy with his camera and I feel that the images certainly do the products justice. Some fish up from Fraserburgh market today with a lot more expected tomorrow and next week. Look forward to your order coming in. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Milder but Very Little Fish Landed - 12th December 2007

A better morning but the forescast is for colder weather later today. Still very little fish landed in the markets today due to the poor weather we had last week but some fish due over the next few days. Hopefull of a lot of fish next week. Just to remind you that the last dispatch day for orders will be the 19th of December so please order early. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold & Frosty Morning - 11th December 2007

The windscreens of the cars & vans were white this morning but it was just as the forecast man said last night. Some fish into Peterhead this morning with 52 boxes of haddock fot eh shop & factory. Hopefull of some fish at the end of the week but it has been said that when some boats land at the weekend, that could be them until the New Year as the last markets are on Friday the 21st of December. Remember that the last date for internet/phone orders are being dispatched on Wednesday the 19th of December so please do not be too late with your orders. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boy Was It Windy!! - 10th December 2007

The wind was something else last night but the forecast is for it to lessen over the next few days. No fish to speak of landed at any of the markets today due to the poor weather last week. Last date for orders to be dispatched is Wednesday the 19th of December so please make sure that you place your order in plenty of time. If you are looking for our Q Award final reaching Luxury Cullen Skink Soup, please look under the "Fresh Fish" section and order the soup in however many tubs you need. No golf yesterday as the course was closed due to flooding, Just as well as I was in Aberdeen on Saturday night at The Kaiser Chiefs concert and what a night that was!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, The Official Blogmaster & Factory Manager.

Good Morning from a cold and frosty whitehills -8th december

As the title says it is freezing here first time for a long time that the de-icer for the car has been out and looking at the forcast snow will be the next problem to deal with. Never mind the factory will soon be shut for 2 weeks for Christmas so remember if you want any Quality fish for over the festive period to get your orders in by the 19th to ensure delivery. We have also added a couple of new products to the shop which is luxury hot smoked salmon pate (my favourite) or cullen skink soup which is a big favourite with a lot of our customers from the village and was recently in the the Q awards in London the only entry from Scotland in it's category. Well I've spoke as long as I can better get some work done before the boss comes on the go Bye for now Colin the blog hi-jacker :)

Better Build a Boat Quick!! - 7th December 2007

With the rain we have had through the night, we had better think about building an ark!! The forecast is not much better so it looks like their will be no golf this Sunday. Fish coming up the road from both Fraserburgh and Peterhead, a total of 119 boxes that should keep the factory & shop going for today and the start of the week. Hope that you all have a great weekend and make sure the Christmas shopping is done!! Remember, not too big a Christmas present this year (only joking!!). Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Busy Day @ The Office! - 6th December 2007

With yet another gale on its way from the West, a lot of the boats have dived into port so the markets today were busy. 115 Boxes up to the factory from Fraserburgh today. The recently launched Prawn Auctions at Fraserburgh are starting to pick up after the first day was cancelled due to lack of prawns being landed. Looks like the factory shop will be closing on the 22nd of December as long as their is fish to sell. THE LASY DAY FOR INTERNET ORDERS IS THE 19TH OF DECEMBER TO ENSURE THAT YOUR ORDER ARRIVES SAFELY. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sea if Flat & the Sky is Blue - 5th December 2007

What more could you ask for? The beautiful weather outside is a big change from what is approaching us later in the week. Fish from Fraserburgh & Peterhead but unsure what will be landed later in the week due to gale force winds coming in from the West. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE LAST DATE FOR DISPATCH OF ORDERS IS TO BE THE 18TH OF DECEMBER TO ENSURE THAT ALL GOODS ARE DELIVERED SAFELY. The last market for Fraserburgh & Peterhead is the 21st of December and that is the day that the factory will be closing as well until the 7th of January 2008. If you have any special requests for a home delivery order, please contact the office as soon as possible to ensure that we can try our best to arrange your order. Speak to you all later & remember that the 18th is the last day!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to Normal Again. - 4th December 2007

Between going to awards dinners and meeting with the Fosheries Minister I have not been keeping up to date with your blog-cast. The Q Awards was certainly an experience even though we did not win. Just being in the top 5 finalists was credit enough for our Luxury Cullen Skink Soup. We spent the evening in the company of Tesco and they were very impressed with the entry. We will just have to wait and see what happens next. Had a meeting with Richard Lockhead on Monday at the launch of a Seafood Scotland Website detailing the sustainability of some of the Scottish fish that is landed in the markets throughout Scotland. Some poor weather due in at the end of the week but we have fish coming up the road for the factory. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

OOPS - Have Not Spoken to You For Some Time - 27th November 2007

Sorry about that folks!! Nothing really to report as their has been very little fish landfed in the markets. Some poorer weather towards the end of the week according to reports. Gales once again!! Road works in the village are completed later today so that should allow more people access to the shop area. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boats Dive for Shelter - 22nd November 2007

It has not stopped raining here in Whitehills for the last 2 days and the rivers are busrting their banks! Still their is plenty of fish in the markets today. The chill is full but with this wind that is currently blowing, the majority of boats have made their way into ports. Their should be full markets again in Peterhead & Fraserburgh on Friday. Looking forward to the weekend. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Normal Service has been Resumed - 21st November 2007

What that means is that the hi-jacker has been taken care of - for the moment anyway. Plenty of fish in the markets yesterday & today with the chill now full to the door. Never seen so much fish in the chill for a long time. Plenty to keep the shop going but with the road works currently causing problems in the village, the shop has been very quiet indeed. Plenty to see on the website though. This time next week, Alan Downie and myself will be on our way to the Quality Food Awards in London flashing plenty of leg in the kilt that we will be wearing with pride as the ONLY Scottish finalist in the Local Food Category. Will keep you informed next week how we get on. Perhaps you could be starting to think of fish for Christmas time so I will be checking with the courier the last delivery dates for Christmas time. Keep an eye on the blog for more details. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

19th november 2007

Hi All Alan Stewart off not well today (to much whisky at the weekend ) only kidding :) back to the fish news for today and the markets are full and the shop is fully stocked with qualtiy fresh fish. maybe speak to you again soon Colin McBain Factory Supervisor (And Blog Hi-jacker) Bye :)

All Quiet on the Blogg Front! - 16th November 2007

Not much to say about anything today except that we had 30 boxes from Fraserburgh market. That will keep the shop stocked as well as giving the factory something to do as well as the breading line working away. A big change in the weather from this time last week with blue skies and still waters today. Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still All Quiet! - 14th November 2007

Great night in Portgordon last night for the SWRI with about 40 ladies there. The Salmon Pate went down very well as did the "banter". Still no fish to speak of in the markets but hopefully their will be some landings towards the end of the week. Off to Newmacher SWRI on Thursday with about 30 ladies attending so I will let you know how that goes in the coming days. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Wind Blows!! - 13th November 2007

I did not think that the wind could blow so long without a break. No fish in any of the markets today but still working through the "Audacious" fish from yesterday as well as breading for our cold store stocks. Off to Portgordon tonight so I will let you know how that went on Wednesday. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Morning with Very Little Fish - 12th November 2007

Well all of the poor weather at the end of last week has come back to haunt us with very poor landings in the 3 of the markets. Thankfully we have fish from the "Audacious" coming here later today so that will give the factory a start on Tuesday. Have been breading, preparing prawns for scampi and making pies & bradies to ensure that our stock levels are good. Have started a "new" bradie filled with Salmon & Broccoli Sauce. Give them a try and give us your thoughts. Speak to you all later but not expecting too much fish for the rest of the week. Alan Stewart, factory Manager.

"The Perfect Storm" Does not Have a Look In!! - 8th November 2007

What a day and what a night!! The wind is blowing force 8 gaining to force 9 later today. The sea is lapping at the back of the factory, the waves are crashing over the sea wall but hey, ho, we are still here with the lights flashing at every gust of wind. Some fish in the markets but that should be it for the next 5 to 7 days. If their are any boats at sea, then I hope some body is looking over them. Still a good variety of fish in the shop today but with the weather as it is, our shop at the fcatory is very quiet indeed. A good night in Duffus last night that went down well with all of the ladies. Off to Portgordon next week for a demo for their local SWRI. Speak to you later if we are not all blown away. It is a pity we did not have a web-cam for the sea at the back of the factory. Alan Stewart, factory manager.

A Northerly Gale is Blowing!! - 7th November 2007

Sorry about not speaking to you over the last few days but I have been out of the office. With the gales that have been blowing and are to continue for the next few days, the fish that we have in the chill from Peterhead & Fraserburgh has to keep us going until early next week. That should mean that the internet shop will be well stocked for the coming days. Off to Duffus tonight to do a cooking demo for about 30/40 ladies. Will let you know how that goes on Thursday if we are not blown away by that time. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Damp Day in Whitehills - 1st November 2007

Just as it says, it is a damp day here with no fish for the factory. 4125 boxes in Peterhead of which 1987 were haddock, no fish in Aberdeen and only 154 boxes in Fraserburgh of which 14 are haddock. Getting ready for the Banff Round table Fireworks Display as we are taking the Seafood Bar to feed the masses that generally attend. Not too sure of the weather forecast but as long as it is dry, who cares!! Hopefully their will be fish from the Audacious on Friday morning for the shop & factory but not too sure how much to expect. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, factory Manager.

Better But Not By Much - 31st October 2007

Some better landings but nothing to shout about. Only 1060 boxes in Peterhead with 469 of that haddock, nothing in Aberdeen and 365 in Fraserburgh with a couple of boats due to land before the 7.30am market. We have 30 boxes coming up the road for the factory and the shop. A bit breezy here today but not too cold. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not A Lot of Anything!! - 30th October 2007

Well I thought that one of the landings last week in Peterhead of 556 boxes on Wednesday was bad but today their is only 316 boxes altogether in Peterhead market. No fish in Aberdeen and only 136 boxes in Fraserburgh. Nothing for the factory today. Just as well we had plenty fish from Peterhead yesterday. The weather is cold but dry in Whitehills but the papers are saying that January & February are going to be very bad for snow. They have difficulty in telling us what the weather is going to be next week never mind next year. Hopefully more fish about on Wednesday. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Morning Again - 29th October 2007

It soon comes rounds and the weekend must be the quickest 2 days of the week!! 2991 boxes in Peterhead of which 1411 are haddock, 210 boxes in Aberdeen and 486 boxes in Fraserburgh of which 105 are haddock. 130 boxes coming from Peterhead and 29 from Fraseburgh. The weather may reduce the landings for the first part of the week due to some wind coming from the North/North West. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Damp Dreich Day in Whitehills - 27th October 2007

Don't normally do an entry on a Saturday but thought I would keep you up to date with the markets landing in Fraserburgh. Their were 1110 boxes in the market of which 190 were haddock. We got 57 boxes up the road for the factory for starting on Monday morning. All the grading is up to date and the factory is getting deep cleaned in some areas. Forecast for Sunday is better for Whitehills so fingers crossed as I am playing golf on Sunday morning. Fore!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Such a Bright Morning - 26th October 2007

Well at least it is Friday. Some fish in the markets with 4230 in Peterhead and 796 in Fraserburgh so we should get some fish from either place for the factory and the shop. Had a customer all the way from Gairloch in the West coast of Scotland for some fish for friends and neighbours. It is ammazing how far people will travel for Downies quality fish. Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Weather Man Said it Was Going to be Cold - 25th October 2007

Well we can't complain too much when he said it was going to get cooler but it was freezing this morning!! 3547 boxes in Peterhead, no report from Aberdeen and 397 boxes in Fraserburgh. 31 boxes coming up the road for the shop & factory. Some orders being dispatched today to a couple of new customers with some feedback coming on the web site changes. I would appreciate your comments also. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Bit More for the Factory - 24th October 2007

What a chilly morning it is here in Whitehills! The sun is now shinning and their is fish in the chill from the "Audacious" as well as from Fraserburgh market. Very little landed in Peterhead this morning - only 556 boxes all in! Looks like we will be breading on Thursday to keep the stocks up. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Morning Once Again! - 22nd October 2007

Monday comes round all too fast. Hope that you all had a great weekend. Amanda, our hand filleter, was married on Saturday and we were at her wedding reception in Inverurie on Saturday night. What a great night was had by all. She is sunning herself in Jamica just now. Some fish in the markets today but we were expecting fish from the "Audacious" but she is getting towed in so the fish will be here on Tuesday rather than today. Fish from the market on Saturday will keep the factory going for today. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold Brisk Morning in Whitehills - 19th October 2007

The sky is clear, the stars are twinkling but it is very cold indeed. 2943 boxes in Peterhead, 481 boxes in Aberdeen & 960 boxes in Fraserburgh. We have some fish coming from the "Adventurer" later in the day so that will keep us going today. Nothing much else to say but have a great weekend and speak to you all at the start of next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Difference a Day Makes - 18th October 2007

Well, what can I say? The boys did not perform at all well but at least we know we just have to beat Italy!! Apart from that, their is 4203 boxes of fish in Peterhead, 989 boxes in Aberdeen and 1235 boxes in Fraserburgh so that should mean we will have fish for the factory and the shop. A good selection available so why not log on and have a look. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Mid Week Catch - 17th October 2007

Wednesday and all eyes are on the Scotland v Georgia game tonight. Not too much fish in the market but we have fish coming from the "Alskere" which should arrive later today. Only 1382 boxes in Peterhead with 315 boxes in Fraserburgh. Best of luck to Scotland tonight - better not forget the English, Welsh & Irish!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another New Week - 15th October 2007

Well, here it is, Monday again. Not too much fish in the markets today but we have 33 boxes coming from Fraserburgh market today. Plenty for the staff to do for today and we hope to be breading fish on Tuesday as our stocks are reducing due to the high demand just now. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 12th October 2007

How times fly's when you are busy. Hard to beleive that it is Friday once again. Not as much fish in Peterhead than I had anticipated but with 1126 boxes in Fraserburgh, we have 112 boxes up for the factory & shop. A bit misty here this morning but the forecast is for a good weekend. Hope so!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Galore!! - 11th October 2007

At long last their seems to be a bit of fish on the go with 3934 boxes in Peterhead, 1200 boxes in Aberdeen and 1122 boxes in Fraserburgh. We should get some fish from the markets today. The weather is damp this morning but hopefully the weather will improve for the weekend. Was in Knockando last night doing a demo for about 40 ladies in the middle of whisky country. Passed a lot of familiar whisky names but still did not get a dram!! Everything seemed to go well last night and all of the ladies enjoyed the Smoked Haddock & Broccoli Crumble. Will let you know what we get from the markets on Friday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much Happening in Fraserburgh - 10th October 2007

Not too much fish in Fraserburgh todat but got 19 boxes from a total of 261 boxes landed. Have fish coming from the "Audacious" which is landing tonight so we will have fish to start with on Thursday morning. Was in Fyvie at Fyvie SWRI with 28 ladies last night. Cooked the Haddock & Banana Bake which went down a treat. Raised over £60 for Whitehills Ladies Lifeboat Guild which helps their funds. Going up whiskey country tonight to a place called Knockandu. Expecting about 50 ladies there so hopefully it should be a good night. I will tell you on Thursday how it all went. Speak to you then. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Doesn't Time Fly When You Are Busy - 9th October 2007

Sorry that it has been so long since I last spoke to you all. Some more fish on the go which is a good thing. Did a cooking demo last night just outside of Fyvie for 25 ladies and out tonight at a different SWRI at Fyvie for about 30 ladies. I will let you know how that goes on Wednesday. Over 3500 boxes in Peterhead today with 1861 boxes of haddock, 540 boxes in Aberdeen and 1371 boxes in Fraserburgh with 253 boxes of haddock. Should get plenty for the shop & factory. Cooked Smoked Haddock & Broccoli Crumble last night for the group which went down a storm. You can all get the receipie from the website - it really is very easy. Going to cook Haddock & Banana Bake tonight for a change. Will speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

On the Road Again - 4th October 2007

Well so much for the nice weather - raining and misty here today. 2128 boxes in Peterhead with 823 boxes of haddock and 504 boxes in Fraserburgh with 127 boxes of haddock. Bit's and peices coming up the road from Fraserburgh and 58 boxes of haddock from Peterhead. Was in Tomintoul last night giving a talk on Downies to a group of about 50 people in the local hall. You know that you are up high when their are snow poles at either side of the road!! The talk went well and they were all given a taste of some of our hot smoked products as well as our Cullen Skink Soup. All went down very well. Maybe see some of them in the shop in the better weather. Factory busy today preparing prawns for scampi and the fish from Peterhead should be up shortly for the rest of the workers to work through. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Thank Goodness for Peterhead!! - 3rd October 2007

Not any fish landed in Fraserburgh todat but thabkfully, their was 3313 boxes landed in Peterhead of which 1325 were haddock. We got 61 boxes for the factory & shop that should keep things ticking over for today at least. We will have to look at some other production for Thursday, perhaps preparing prawns for our Breaded Wholetail Scampi which is becoming very popular and is available in the internet shop in 1lb bags. Why not order some for the freezer for a quick meal at any time of the day? Hopefully their will be some fish in Fraserburgh on Thursday. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Two Days on the Trott!! - 2nd October 2007

2 fine days back to back - what a blessing. 3649 in Peterhead Market from which we got 111 boxes of haddock for the shop & factory. That should keep us going for today and a start on Wednesday morning in the hope that thier will be more fish in on Wednesday. Had an update from the web designer and he is looking for some text for the site so things should start to move in the coming days. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sky is Blue & The Sun is Shinning - 1st October 2007

The sun is shinning as if it were a summers day! That and 2 great days over the weekend as well. Very little landings in the markets today with 1947 in Peterhead and 650 in Fraserburgh. Nothing for the factory or the shop. Been reviewing the website again with Chunky looking at refreshing the Home Page with a different lay out altogether. Hope to see some more fish in the markets over the coming days. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Hang onto Your Hat's!! - 26th September 2007

If you don't you will loose it today if you are visiting Whitehills!! The wind was certainly blowing last night. This has resulted in a bit of fish being landed in the markets. Peterhead has 3575 with 2197 boxes of haddock, Aberdeen only has 30 boxes and 900+ boxes in Frsaerburgh with 148 boxes of haddock. That could mean that their will be very little fish towards the end of the week but we will have to wait and see. Some more changes being started on the website which should be visible later on this week or early next week. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Night!! - 25th September 2007

Well, the wind was certainly blowing last night! Only 2666 boxes in Peterhead with 1466 of that haddock, 421 in Fraserburgh with 78 of that haddock so we will have to wait & see what fish we get for the shop & factory. Not too much happening yesterday with only 30 boxes up for the factory & shop. The shop display is good but last night's wind may cause a drop in the volume of landings for the remainder of the week. Time will tell. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Yahooo, It's Friday!! - 21st September 2007

Just as the title says, it's Friday and little to no fish landed in any of the markets this morning. Only 1 box of haddock for the shop today and that was half of the total number of boxes of gutted haddock landed in Fraserburgh!! Still plenty to do in the factory with the prawn meat being prepared for scampi for both the shop & the website. Hope that you all have a great weekend and speak to you all next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Better Landings in the Markets Today - 20th September 2007

At last their is a bit more fish in the markets today. 3789 in Peterhead of which 2272 are haddock and 605 boxes in Fraserburgh of which only 47 are haddock. We have 80 boxes from Peterhead and 12 boxes from Fraserburgh so that should keep the factory & shop going for today at least. The weather is brighter here today but their was a nip in the air this morning whilst coming to work. Hope that winter has not arrived early. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Quiet on the Fish Front - 19th September 2007

Still very quiet with only 2676 boxes in Peterhead of which 1337 are haddock, 360 boxes in Aberdeen and 287 boxes in Fraserburgh. We have 53 boxes coming up the road from Peterhead this morning which will be used for the shop and some for the factory. Had a great evening in New Pitsligo last night with a group of 25 ladies. They all enjoyed the talk as well as tasting some of the Smoked Haddock & Broccoli Crumble. You can get the recipe on the website and it is very easy to do. Even won a raffle prize last night! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fish Front (Again!) - 18th September 2007

As the title says, the weather has got the better of the fishermen with landings very low indeed. Only 1052 boxes in Peterhead of which 409 are haddock, 88 boxes in Aberdeen and 294 boxes in Fraserburgh with 61 of those haddock. No fish up the road to the factory today but still plenty of breading to do as well as preparing our Wholetail Scampi for the shop & website. Final preperations are in place for New Pitsligo tonight so I hope the ladies are ready for me!! I will let you know how it all went on Wednesday, as long as I get back safely. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boy Is It Windy!! - 17th September 2007

What a night we had here in Whitehills!! The northerly wind has brought a number of boats into the markets but with only 1920 boxes in Peterhead and 594 in Fraserburgh, their are only 22 boxes of fish coming up the road to the factory. A perfect time to increase our stock of pies & pastries into the cold store. Take a look at some of the changes to the web site. So far so good but their will still be a number of changes to make your shopping experience easier when at Downies. Got a cooking demo in New Pitsligo on Tuesday night so I am starting to get things together for that. It is the first time that I have done a demo there so it should be fun. Speak to you all on Tuesday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fish Front - 15th September 2007

Just as I thought - very little fish in Fraserburgh market today, only 118 boxes and only 14 of those are haddock. Factory busy with other production and the pies are being made in the bakery just to boost the stock in the cold store. Hopefully more fish expected in the markets on Monday so lets keep our fingers crossed!! Have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Wet 'n' Windy in Whitehills - 14th September 2007

The North wind certainly blew through the night and it has blown a number of boats into the markets in Fraserburgh & Peterhead. 3840 boxes in Peterhead and more than 800 boxes in Fraserburgh with boats still landing. That should mean that we have some fish for the factory. The changes to the website are underway and hopefully it should not be too long for the revamped site to be ready. Seems like the photographs taken by "Chunky", Colin the Factory Supervisor, are working as some new customers are buying a different variety of fish. Give us your thoughts on "Chunky's" efforts. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Oh What a Night!! - 13th September 2007

More fish landed in Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets today that yesterday but still not a great deal of haddock for the factory. Shop supplies are still great but hopefull of a wider selection on Friday. Congratulation to the Scotland football team for last nights result against France. A few sore heads in the factory this morning!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It is Wenesday but still very little Landings - 12th September 2007

The weather at the weekend is still having an effect on the landings in the markets. Some fish for the factory but plenty to do on our breading line for the shop. Have a look at the frozen section on the internet shop for some ideas for your table. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boy is it Windy!! - 10th September 2007

Well the Northerly wind is certainly battering the back of the factory and the wind has resulted in large landings in both Peterhead & Fraserburgh with more than 120 boxes into the factory today. The forecast is not looking to great for the middle of the week which will result in lower landings until the weekend. Still got a great selection in the shop. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

If it is Friday, It must be Fish! - 7th September 2007

The shop at the fcatory has been busy today at it is not even lunchtime yet!! Some good landings of fish today with 46 boxes of fish for the factory. Hopefull of some good landings on Saturday in Fraserburgh. The weather forecast for the weekend here is good & warm so we may even manage a BBQ. Now that I have said it, it will more than likely rain!! Have a great weekend & will speak to you all at the beginning of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Did You See It? - 6th September 2007

Well, I hope you all watched "Trawlermen"on BBC1 last night. The programme had a lot of unseen footage as well as updates on some of the "crews". Great to catch up on some of the new celebrities! Some good landings in Fraserburgh & Peterhead today with over 170 boxes now in the chill for the factory and the shop. More fish due in on Friday as well so happy days. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fish Front - 5th September 2007

No too much fish landed in the markets today with only 91 boxes of haddock landed in Fraserburgh and 1227 boxes of haddock landed in Peterhead. The shop still has an excellent variety to offer today with some superb lemon sole available. Remeber to watch BBC 1 tonight with a programme on "Trawlermen" being shown. Well worth a watch as some footage that has not been seen before from some of the "old" favorites such as Jimmy Buchan on the "Ammity". Speak to you all again soon and remember to watch out for the changes on the website. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The North Wind Doth Blow! - 30th August 2007

What a cold & breezy day it is in Whitehills with a North Wind blowing right onto the back of the factory. Some fish landed into Peterhead with 4233 boxes of fish and 945 boxes landed in Fraserburgh with more boats still to land. Should get some fish from Fraserburgh today as well as the fish from the Audacious. Heard on the local news this morning that their is a fire at one of Aberdeen's fish processors overlooking the River Dee. A fire started at 05.30 this morning at A J Christie Jnr and hopefully their has been no injuries to anyone there. Our thoughts are with the Management & Staff. Speak to you all later with an update on how our meeting with our website designer goes. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Audacious is on the Way - 29th August 2007

Even less fish in the markets today with only 1842 boxes in Peterhead, 194 boxes in Aberdeen & 548 boxes in Fraserburgh. 30 boxes of haddock from Fraserburgh off a local Whitehills boat, the Reliance. As the title says, Billy Gatt & the Audacious are on the way in with some haddock for the factory to process as well as some other fish for the shop. The Seafood Bar is out on the road again this weekend at a show jumping event beside Keith on Sunday for the Stathisla Riding Club event. Once again, fingers crossed for a dry day!! Speak to you all again soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fishfront!! - 28th August 2007