Another Cold & Frosty Day - 3rd March 2010

Well the snow has not reappeared as first thought but it was a very frosty morning at 6.30am. No fish in the markets for us today and not too sure when the boats will be landing. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Downies Front - 2nd March 2010

Not much happening in the markets over the last few days as a result of the very poor weather at the end of last week and over the weekend. Some new orders away today with more in the pipeline for the coming days. A couple of new stores interested in taking our seafood range so look out at the Costcutter in Burghead for our range. Remember to ask William and his staff if their is anything in particular you may be looking for not forgetting our frozen range. Hope to speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

At Last, It's Friday - 26th February 2010

It's Friday, the snow is gone, the wind is blowing like mad, their is haddock from Fraserburgh Markets and Peterhead Market! Life is wonderful! Some haddock to keep the factory going today as well as fish from Shetland arriving off today's ferry and the ferry that is due in on Saturday - weather permitting. That will give us a start to next week but the weather may effect the levels of landings until this time next week. We will have to wait and see. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish But More of the White Stuff! - 24th February 2010

Just as the header says, some fish in both markets but only54 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning. But their is more of the white stuff here in Whitehills with the forecasters saying that their could be more on the way. Should have been going to a Grampian Food Forum meeting in Banchory this morning to see round the raemoir Garden Centre but with the roads as they are, I have cancelled. It could be postponed any way due to the roads. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from Peterhead & More Snow!! - 23rd February 2010

At least we got some haddock from Peterhead Market this morning - 146 boxes in fact. That will keep the factory going for today and Wednesday. Been busy getting some breaded products done to keep our stocks healthy. More snow last night but it seems to be this corner that is worst effected, not including Shetland which has more than a foot of snow with more on the way. Luck Shetland!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Brrrrrrrr! It's Cold - 22nd February 2010

The sun may be shining but it is bitterly cold here in Whitehills today. Not much fish in the markets today but we did get some haddock from the "Russa Taign" that will help a little. Not too sure what is expected later in the week. Some orders away for dispatch on Tuesday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing from the Markets but Some from the "Audacious" - 18th February 2010

The fish in the markets today was very expensive to say the least but we did get some haddock and bits 'n' pieces from the "Audacious" that should keep the factory ticking over for part of today and a start on Friday morning. The weather here has been cold but in other parts their has been snow and ice on the raods which has caused a number of accidents. Watch your feet. Not sure if their is to be a lot of fish landed on Friday, we will have to wait & see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart,Factory Manager.

What a Change of a Day - 17th February 2010

After the rain that fell for most of the day yesterday and the thunder and lightening in the early hours of the morning, the skies are blue, the sea is calm and what is more, we have 100 boxes of fish for the market. Fish is coming from Fraserburgh Market, Peterhead Market and from Lerwick but that could be later the day before the Shetland fish arrives. 1 new internet order off and running today and you should have a look and see what changes have been made to the Trade Show section on the website. Chunky has been busy bringing that part of the site up to date for the events we are attending later in the year. Hope you have a great day. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Snow, Sleet & Rain - 16th February 2010

All winter conditions in 1 day!! 93 boxes from Fraserburgh Market that will keep the troops going for today and a start on Wednesday morning. Word is that their is over 3000 boxes being landed inn Peterhead Market on Wednesday morning. Have a look at our "Events" section to see a piece about the "Grampian Country Fair with the Cast of Emmerdale". Hopefully should be a good weekend if the wetaher is favourable. Our enrty is in for the Grampian Food Awards 2010 so we all have our fingers crossed that we get passed the first judging stage. Speak to you later, if we don't float away!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yahoo!! It's Friday - 12th February 2010

Well here we are yet again, another week has just flown past with some of the "Russa Taign" haddock still to cut and some haddock coming from Lerwick Market off the ferry later today. Not too much in either of the markets today but we will have to wait and see what comes up the road. A couple of orders requested for Monday dispatch. Nothing else really happening in Whitehills but the sky looks like it could be an "okay" day. Fingers crossed for the weekend. Speak to you on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold Morning and Not Too Much in the Markets - 11th February 2010

Well after the red sky last night, the weather here in Whitehills is damp and cold. At least their is no sign of the snow that was forecast at the end of last week. Nothing much to speak of in the markets today but still waiting from the fish from the "Russa Taign" which should be here later in the day. Had a problem with 1 of the machines when I arrived this morning so no real rush until we get it sorted. Hopefully Kevin can sort it quite quickly to allow production to start. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much in the Markets - 10th February 2010

Well here we are on Wednesday morning with not much in the markets. Saving grace is that we are expecting haddock from the "Russa Taign" later today that will keep the factory going for the rest of the week. Not too sure what the weather is going to do for fishing later in the week but it is a beautiful day here in Whitehills with blue sky's and an almost flat sea. Mind you, that can change at a moments notice. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Miserable Day - 9th February 2010

The rain is falling, the wind is from the North East, it is very cold - another typical day in Whitehills!! Fish from Fraserburgh Market and Peterhead Market that will keep the factory busy again for the rest of the day. Some more orders away south today for a new customer and an existing customer. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back Into the Swing of Things - 8th February 2010

Well here I am again after the 2 quickest days of the week have passed. Some fish from the market on Saturday as well as some haddock from the west coast from 1 of the local Whitehills boats. Got 47 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning as well as fish from the "Audacious" that will keep the factory going today and a start on Tuesday. Some orders away today with some getting prepared for dispatch on Tuesday. Not too sure what is forecast for the rest of the week but I did see that their is the possibility of more snow later in the week with the temperatures droping to -12 deg. Just when I thought we had seen the end of the snow. Mind you, look at all the snow in Washington DC - hopefully that will not end up here! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold & Frosty - 4th February 2010

Yet again, woke to find more of the white stuff but hopefully it will not last too long. Some fish in the markets but only 20 boxes from Fraserburgh Market and not sure if we have any fish from Peterhead Market. 22 boxes coming from Shetland later today but that will just keep 1 or 2 of the troops busy. Fingers crossed for more fish on Friday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Just Topping Up The Chill - 2nd February 2010

With some fish in Fraserburgh Market as well as some in Peterhead Market, we have 41 boxes coming up the road for the factory. Their is still plenty haddock in the chill to keep the factory ticking over today as well as Wednesday. The frost has lifted this morning but it is still a very cold morning. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Slippy Under Foot - 1st February 2010

Better watch your feet if you are in Whitehills today as the roads and paths are very slippy indeed. Fish arrived from Shetland this morning along with 19 boxes from Fraserburgh Market from Saturday. Nothing today but with the chill almost full then their are no worries there! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

More of the White Stuff - 29th January 2010

Woke to more snow this morning but hopefully it should not cause as many problems as the last lot. Plenty fish about today both in Fraserburgh & Peterhead. Fish from both places this morning so that will give us a good start to the week. With the weather as wild as it was through the night, looks like it could be the middle of next week before their are decent landings into the markets. Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday but it looks like it could be another very cold day. That may effect the number of people venturing out but we will have to wait and see. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Plenty to Keep Us Going - 28th January 2010

Fish from Fraserburgh Market & fish from Peterhead Market that will certainly keep us going for today and a start on Friday too. A bitterly cold day in Whitehills with the possibility of some snow later in the week. Hopefully not as much as last time! Shop has been steady today with a couple of orders away today and on Friday too. Will have to wait and se what fish is being landed on Friday for the start of next week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Damp Day in Whitehills - 27th February 2010

What a miserable day it is in Whitehills this morning. Cold, wet and raining. 111 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning that should keep the factory ticking over. Hopefully some more fish on Thursday with the possibility of fish from the "Audacious" as she is due to land later today over in the West coast. Nothing much else happening here today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some But Not A Lot - 26th January 2010

Some more haddock today but not as much as we have been receiving over the past few days. 57 boxes from Fraserburgh Market but nothing from Peterhead Market today. Some orders away and more received for later in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 25th January 2010

Well here we are again, Monday before you know it. Nothing much doing in Fraserburgh Market today but we have 30 boxes for the shop & factory. As well as that, we have 150 boxes from the "Russa Taign" arriving later today so that will keep us going as we have the fish from Lerwick to consider too. Their could be a number of sore heads in Lerwick on Tuesday as they will be celebrating "Up Helly 'A". Not too sure about how much fish their will be later in the week but I do understand that their is the threat of some windy weather in the middle of the week so that could blow a number of boats in. We will have to wait and see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Should Have Kept Quiet - 22nd January 2010

Typical, should have kept quiet about all of the haddock we have been getting over the past few days. With the wild night we had in Whitehills it is not suprising that their is not a lot of fish being landed but we have got 23 boxes coming from Peterhead Market this morning. That should allow us to clear our feet for a fresh week next week. The forecast is for more rain today with the possibility of a better weekend. Fingers crossed anyway. Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Plenty of Haddock to Go Round - 21st January 2010

No matter what I start to think about the possible shortage of haddock due to the poor weather, Mr Downie still manages to get some haddock from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets. Over 130 boxes in total to keep us going. Not going to say anything about how much or how little is expected over the next couple of days! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Too Much Happening - 20th January 2010

Just as it says, their is not too much happening in either Fraserburgh or Peterhead markets today. About 25 boxes from Peterhead Market that should allow us to clear our feet. Speaking to 1 of the salesmen in Fraserburgh this morning, he said that the bulk of the Fraserburgh fleet were in due to a very poor forecast and hopefully some may head out later in the week to land the middle of next week. Fingers crossed anyway! Another cold morning here in Whitehills but thasnkfully no more sign of the white stuff - snow. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold Start to the Day - 19th January 2010

Just when we thought that we had the last of the cold weather, woke to find the van windscreen covered in frost. Hope that we are not going to get more snow as it predicted for parts of the country. Plenty haddock in the markets to keep the factory busy for most of the week. Some orders away yesterday and more today. One of our new customers very happy with our products and service - just check the testimonials section on the website. Looks like we are getting things right in both service and goods. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Yet More Fish - 14th January 2009

With the chill almost full of fish, Alan Downie has been able to get 66 boxes from Fraserburgh Market and a further 36 boxes from Peterhead Market. That will keep the troops busy for today not to mention Friday too. 1 new customer order away south today so it looks like the road conditions have improved to allow safe delivery of fish. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Bitterly Cold in Whitehills - 13th January 2010

The thaw may have started but their is a bitterly cold wind. Plenty of fish landed both in Peterhead & Fraserburgh Markets today with 91 boxes from Fraserburgh & 107 coming from Peterhead later in the day. that will keep us going for the best part of this week. Some orders away but thankfully they are not being effected by the road conditions furher south. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Thaw is On - 12th January 2010

Well now that the threat of more snow is passed, the only worry we have now is the threat of water once all of the snow melts!! 114 boxes from Peterhead Market with a further 32 boxes from Fraserburgh Market. With what we have in the chill from yesterday, that should keep us going for the next couple of days any way. Got copies of some of the photgraphs from our Christmas night out but not sure is they would help with sales on the website or not. Probably not!! Best to leave them on the disc for the moment. The roads are almost back to normal so the first of the internet orders are going away today so at least some customers will have some fish for a change to beef & turkey! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish to Keep Us Going - 11th January 2010

Fish from all directions today including Fraserburh & Peterhead Markets that will keep the factory going for the early part of the week. The thaw seems to have started here but it is forecast that the temperature is due to drop again that could cause problems with icy road and pavements. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Brrrrrrrrr!! - 8th January 2010

The local temperatures have been between -5 and -17 deg!! Now that is cold. Nothing coming from Fraserburgh Market but 92 boxes on the way from Peterhead Market. Looks like we will leave that fish until the start of next week as we hope to have a full compliment of staff by then. A number have been unable to get to work due to the state of the roads in the area. Nothing really happening in our own shop but that is to be expected. No orders being dispatched until the start of next week when we hope that the roads will be clear by then. Have a safe and warm weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yet More of the White Stuff - 7th January 2010

Some more snow fell overnight which has just made the road and walking conditions in the area treacherous. Some fish in Fraserburgh Market but the problem is that Alan Downie can not get to the market never mind the fact that the lorry can not leave Fraserburgh safely. Just as well we had some haddock from the "Audacious" yesterday for the shop. Looks like no orders will be dispatched this week as their is no guarantee that the couriers can deliver safely on time. As soon as the conditions improve then I will arrange for the orders to be dispatched. At least the local kids are enjoying the extra days off!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

HAPPY NEW YEAR - 6th January 2010

Well what a wintery start to 2010!! Fish from the "Audacious" this morning thank fully as the roads to Fraserburgh Market were so bad that Alan Downie had to turn back as he would never had made the start of the market. It took our lorry some time to get up the road through all of the ice & snow. What is more, their is more snow forecast for tonight so it could mean another day off school for all of the lucky teachers and kids. Have received 2 orders for delivery but not too sure when these will be dispatched due to the uncertain road conditions. Will keep you informed, as long as i don't get "snowed in" even though I can walk to work!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet in the Factory - 21st December 2009

With no fish from the markets due to the factory now being closed, their is an earie quiet throughtout the factory. Only some of us cleaning back the machines and other bits 'n' pieces before the shop closes on Wednesday lunchtime. Better be quick if you are calling on us. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

First Whisps of Winter? - 17th December 2009

Well it looks like we could get some of the white stuff later in the week. Hopefully it will not be too "wild". 50 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning with the possibility of some haddock from the "Audacious" later as they are landing today. That will keep the factory ticking over for the rest of the week until the factory stops at 5pm on Friday. Should give us plenty of time to have the factory cleaned down before the rest of us stop on Wednesday lunchtime, at the same time as the shop closes. The chill has 1 pallet of goods ready to go away as the last of the orders have been processed and packed. Never seen so much stuff going out in 1 day. Just shows that we must be doing something right. Plenty of Hot Smoked Salmon heading away as that is a nice alternative at the festive time. Looks like the quota's for next year are going to be even tighter but still awaiting the outcome of the talks with Norway. They stalled before the Brussels talks so it will be into January 2010 before all of that is finalised. Well better go and make sure that everything is ticking along in the factory. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Look's Like We May Need an Ark!! - 16th December 2009

With the amount of rain that has been falling, looks like we may need an ark to keep us afloat. The weather has turned "wild" again. No fish from Fraserburgh Market this morning but their is 57 boxes from Peterhead Market to top up the chill. The haddock arrived late yesterday from Lerwick so that gives the troops something for today. All orders must be in by later today if you want delivery before Christmas. Not too sure how the Fisheries talks in Brussels are going but the indications are that their will be more cuts in either quota's or days at sea in some parts of the seas around Scotland. Fingers crossed that they are not too scathying. Will keep you up to date as I hear things. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Damp, Wet & Now Windy! - 15th December 2009

What a miserable day here in Whitehills. The wind is blowing like a wild thing out the back of the factory. Still, at least the frost has moved away but now they are forecasting snow for the end of the week. We will have to wait & see. Only 19 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today but as we have haddock coming from Lerwick Market off the Shetland ferry today, that will keep the factory going for today and part of Wednesday anyway. Some more orders away by courier today as Christmas gifts for friends & family. All orders must be in by Wednesday to ensure that we can dispatch the orders on Thursday for delivery by 5pm on Friday so please don't leave it too late. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold, Wet & Windy - It Must be Whitehills!! - 14th December 2009

Well what a change from the frost we had here on Friday night/Saturday morning. The rain is falling and the wind has turned into the North East and due to bring a cold break with it. A lot of boats have been blown into the markets this morning with over 200 boxes from Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets this morning. What that will do to the rest of the landings this week, who knows! Getting ready for the mas exodus of orders that are being dispatched on Thursday for Friday delivery. I am sure everything will go well - fingers crossed! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much in Fraserburgh - 11th december 2009

Only 105 boxes in Fraserburgh Market today but we are hopefull of fish from Peterhead Market. The haddock from Shetland arrived this morning with 24 boxes of haddock that will keep the shop going for some of the day. Fingers crossed for haddock from Peterhead. It is a very cold morning here in Whitehills so better get the thermals on for later. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Some but Not Enough! - 10th December 2009

Just as it says, some fish coming up the road, 39 boxes, from Fraserburgh Market but nothing from anywhere else. Should be able to keep the troops here for most of the day but could be a later start on Friday. Maybe even a long lie but not for me. Cold morning in Whitehills with a cold wind heading from Siberia over the weekend so better wrap up warm. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Frank Carson at Downies! - 9th December 2009

Well it seems like it as he always says "and theirs more" because we are still able to get more haddock by the day. Another 38 boxes from Fraserburgh Market and a further 50 boxes from Peterhead Market so that will keep the factory going for today and some of Thursday. Some orders still being received for dispatch next week but our special offer has not attracted any interest yet so do not leave it too late!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sorry For Not Writing Sooner - 8th December 2009

Whilst I should not be complaining, the reason for not keeping you up to date with the landings is that their has been a lot of fish being landed at all of the ports & markets. We have been busier that I had thought we were going to be but better not complain. Fish from the "Audacious", Kinlochbervie, Peterhead & Fraserburgh market today. More than enough to keep the factory jumping and the troops very busy indeed. A lot of internet orders away today with more for the rest of this week as well as the end of next week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still Their is Haddock - 3rd December 2009

The weather is damp but not nearly as cold as it was at the start of the week. It felt warmer in the cold store that it was outside!! 68 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning with some boats still to land later in the week so hopefully we will get some to keep us going for the rst of the week. Off to Banff Shopping night tonight offering samples of our Cullen Skink Soup at Castlegate Newsagents from 5pm until 8pm. Then on Friday, I am off to Mitchells Dairy in Inverurie to offer tastings of our Cullen Skink Soup and our 3-way cook breaded haddock for the customers to try. Fingers crossed for a good night tonight and a good day on Friday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager. Did you notice the seasonal changes then??

Fish Abound - 2nd December 2009

Still fish being landed at Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets with 92 boxes from Fraserburgh for the factory & Shop. Not too sure how long this will last as the fish quota's are under severe threat just now. Hope to have fish for the rest of the year but all depends what the boats land now. Hope you enjoy some of the changes made to the site for Christmas. Must thank Chunky & Douglas at Dome for his assistance. Look out for the "Christmas Special Offer" from Downies to give you an alternative from turkey and the likes. The last dispatch date is the 17th of December to allow plenty of time for the goods to arrive safely for Christmas. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish to Cut & The Machines are Running! - 26th November 2009

With fish from the "Audacious" and from Lerwick market, the filleting machine is on for the first time this week. Yahoo!!! According to Mr Downie, not too sure if their will be any further fish this week but fingers crossed. The wind was certainly blowing last night but has calmed down now. No rain so it looks like I will get a game of golf on Sunday. Off to a Seafosh meeting in Aberdeen tomorrow so I will be unable to keep you up to date with what is going on as I am leaving Whitehills at 6am to deliver goods on the way to the meeting. Have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager

Still No Sign of It Yet! - 25th November 2009

I am talking about the wind as well as the fish! Nothing too much in the markets this morning and with the wind & gales not yet hit, I am not sure what will be landed later in the week either. Advised that we are getting some haddock from the "Audacious" which is landing later today with the haddock arriving on Thursday morning. Hope to have some "bits 'n' pieces" for the shop as well. Spoke to our salmon supplier in Lerwick today to be advised that the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen may not sail today due to the forecast of stormy weather on the trip down. We should have enough salmon to keep us going until the end of the week, fingers crossed! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Waiting for More Wind & Rain - 24th November 2009

Still no sign of the wind & rain as yet but forecast states that we should get it by late afternoon. Some fish in the markets today with 30 boxes coming from Fraserburgh Market today. Some mixed fish for the shop to keep Carole happy, if at all possible!! Wind is heading from the Soth West overnight so that may blow some boats in for later in the week. Fingers crossed anyway. Word is the "Audacious" is due in on Wednesday with some haddock but not too sure if they will have any for us! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 23rd November 2009

The weekend has passed once again and their is not too much fish landed in either Fraserburgh or Peterhead Markets this morning. Alan Downie has 26 boxes coming up the road from today's market in Fraserburgh and not too sure what is going to happen for the rest of the week. According to some skippers, the forecast for the start to midle of the week is not great and they are not considering heading out until Thursday or even Friday. Better batten down the hatches then!! Starting to gear up for December and advise our customers that the factory closes on Friday the 18th of December but the shop will be open until perhaps the 23rd of December for all those last minute requirements. Our last delivery run for 2009 will be on the 16th & 17th of December but for those closer to home, we may manage another delivery if required and on the basis that their is still fish being landed. The news for the West coast fishermen was not too good on Friday/Saturday with their restrictions being held in place for a further 18 months and not stopping at the end of this year as at first thought. Hopefully the remaining fishing talks in December will bear more for the fishermen on the East coast. If not, we will have to see what the EU gives us to keep going in 2010. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Where Have All the Fish Gone?? - 20th November 2009

You would think that the fish have gone away on their holidays with the lack of fish in the markets this morning. Hopefull of some haddock from Peterhead to keep the shop ticking over but Chunky, the "Blog Hijacker", has some other jobs to keep the troops busy for some of the day. Not too sure of what the prospects are for the start of the week but time will tell. Nothing planned for the weekend and I am not too sure if the golf course will be open for Winter League. Could be another long lie on Sunday, fingers crossed!! Have a great weekend and speak to you on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some But Not Alot! - 19th November 2009

Some haddock from Peterhead Market with a total of 26 boxes of haddock. Their are other jobs to keep some of the troops busy in the factory but not too sure about what will happen on Friday. The weather here has not been as bad as I thought it was going to be. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Waiting for the Storm - 18th November 2009

According to the weather forecasters, we are awaiting a further winter storm but looking out of the office window just now, you would hardly believe that a storm was possible. The sun is hinning, the seas are calm but their is a cold air. All it has done is result in very little in the way of fish being landed in either Fraserburgh or Peterhead Markets. All we have today is 15 boxes of haddock from Lerwick Market that arrived off the ferry this morning. Not too sure what is expected in the way of landings for the rest of the week but time will tell. Some new orders away both today as well as a couple lined up for dispatch on Thursday for Friday delivery. I am stil awaiting final details of when the final dispatch of prders will be but as soon as I know, then I will advise you via the blog. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 16th November 2009

The weekends seem to pass quicker all the time. It must be due to my age or something. Fish from Peterhead this morning with 40 boxes from there as well as 10 boxes from Fraserburgh Market. The weather is due to take a turn for the worse later in the week so that may have a reflection on how much fish is in the markets towards the weekend. Some of fish quota's for the North Sea are coming under threat so it should make for an interesting time until the end of the year for all concerned. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Ooops, Forgot About Friday - 14th November 2009

Well, it must be an age thing as I forgot to keep you informed as to what was going on at Downies of Whitehills yesterday. Fish from Fraserburgh, Peterhead & Kinlochbervie Markets that certainly helped to keep things busy in the factory. Plenty of fish for the shop also as well as some fish from the "Audacious" that has broken down and into Ullapool on Friday night. The weather forecast is telling us to prepare for a storm but their are no signs of it here in Whitehills - so far anyway!! Speak to you on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sad Day in Whitehills - 12th November 2009

The weather here in Whitehills reflects the mood in the village, damp & dreich. The village woke to the news that a fisherman was lost overboard from the local fishing boat "Osprey" just 5 miles off Macduff. The 25 year old was dragged overboard at about 7pm last night and a full search was undertaken by other boats in the area as well as Macduff & Fraserburgh Lifeboats. As yet, no body has been recovered but the search is due to resume this morning. It just shows the high price we have to pay to have fish on our tables. All of our thoughts go to the family of the fisherman lost last night. Their is plenty of fish in Fraserburgh Market so that should keep the factory busy for today and Friday as the troops have plenty to keep them busy. Over 150 boxes from Fraserburgh and about 12 boxes from Peterhead market as well. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Nothing to Speak of - 11th November 2009

Well so much for my thoughts on their being fish today. Only 33 boxes from Peterhead Market today but Chunky has some other jobs up his sleeve to keep the troops busy. Fish cakes come to mind as they have been very popular over the last few weeks. Damp cold day in Whitehills but their could be some fish in the markets on Thursday as the weather is meant to be taking a change for the worse. We will have to wait & see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much but Something! - 10th November 2009

107 boxes in total from Fraserburgh Market & Peterhead Market combined which gives the troops something to work on today. The weather has taken a turn for the worse with a damp day here in Whitehills. At least the frost has lifted from yesterday. Catch up with you later in the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much Happening Today - 9th November 2009

Well Monday once again but not much happening in the markets. Only 6 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today but their are other jobs to keep the troops going for a bit of today between one thing or another. The forecast is looking okay for the rest of the week but we will have to wait and see what happens. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back After 2 Weeks Away - 6th November 2009

No I was not away on holiday again!! Have been off for more than 2 weeks with a bad back for want of a better term. I can assure you that normal service will be resumed at the start of next week. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from All Directions - 19th October 2009

Some days their is no fish then like today, we have fish coming from Fraserburgh Market, Peterhead Market and even from Shetland on Tuesday morning. All of this fish will keep the factory busy for the next few days as the word is that the landings towards the end of the week are expected to be low. Better make hay whilst the sun shines!! Having said that, it is damp & cold in Whitehills today. Over 120 boxes from the markets today but I do not expect the shop to be too busy today with the wet weather but you never know. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty Fish but Not Too Much for Us - 16th October 2009

Well just as I hoped for plenty fish for the factory and with what seemed like decent landings in Peterhead & Fraserburgh, we only have 80 boxes up the road today and I hope that their is plenty of haddock in Saturday's market in Fraserburgh. The wind has started to pick up so that may drive a number of boats in on Saturday, fingers crossed anyway! Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish at Last!! - 15th October 2009

Fish from the "Audacious" and from Fraserburgh Market as well as Peterhead Market!! Life is wonderfull! Some of the fish from Peterhead came from the "Arcane" which played a big part in the last series of "Trawlermen" and the quality of their haddock today was excellent so it goes to show that their is plenty of good quality haddock being landed in the North East of Scotland. Most of the haddock will be cut today so fingers crossed for some more fish in the markets on Friday to keep the factory going. The rain has started to fall in Whitehills but that will not worry "Shoppie" Carole as she heads of to visit her daughter and family in Lanzsarote. She should get some sun there. Mr Downie called today and said that the heat in Thailand was very hot indeed but I am sure a few cold beers will help out his thirst!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Haddock Front - 14th October 2009

With the weather being so mild this morning you would expect that their would be plenty of fish in the markets but that is not the case today. Tried to get some haddock from Peterhead but I was unsuccessful but we do have some fish from Fraserburgh Market. It will not be enough to have the factory jumping but it does look like that some of the troops will be home early today. Got a call from Mr Downie, who is presently sunning himself in Thailand, that the "Audacious" is landing tonight so we will have some haddock for both the shop & factory on Thursday. Not too sure how much haddock we will have but some is better than none!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Poor Day of Weather and the Landings are Not Much Better - 13th October 2009

The rain looks like it has been falling for most of the night and it could be falling for the rest of the day according to the forecast last night! Just over 2500 boxes in Peterhead and about 350 boxes in Fraserburgh Market so fingers crossed for some fish for us today. Plenty of internet orders going away today so at least some customers will be having fish later in the week! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much Happening - 12th October 2009

Not much in the markets today with a grand total of 9 boxes from Fraserburgh Market. Looks like it could be an early finish for the troops today but they are breading some product today with the possibility of making some bradies for our stock on Tuesday. The poor weather at the end of last week has resulted in poor landings and that could be the same for most of this week. No demo's this week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

DELIVERIES SHOULD NOT BE EFFECTED BY POSTAL DISPUTE - 9th October 2009

With the proposed postal disputes just arround the corner, Downies are confident that by continuing to use a national courier, FedEx, our deliveries will not be effected by any future disputes. Some fish in the markets today with fish from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets on their way to Whitehills. That will keep the factory & shop busy for the rest of the day. Due to the constraints on the fishermen imposed by the EU government, it looks like the cod quota for the North Sea will be closed to ensure that the boats can continue to fish for other species. It is complicated but the bottom line is that once again, even though their is plenty of fish to catch, the fishermen are having to follow the rules to try and ensure that we get a fair hearing at the fisheries talks in December never mind trying to make a living. The weather for the weekend for this part of the world looks like it is going to be wet so it looks like a weekend by the fireside. Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold Blast!!- 9th October 2009

With the wind starting to blow from the North, the temperature has fallen quite a bit this morning. No fish to speak of landed in the markets but we have had a delivery of haddock from the "Russa Taign" so that will keep the factory busy today and some of Friday. Nothing else much happening but I will speak to you on Friday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Off to Alford on My Travels - 6th October 2009

Well here I am getting ready for my "expedition" to Alford tonight for a cooking demo for about 30 ladies. Have to get my goods all ready as they are looking for some excellent quality fish tonight as well. Some fish from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets this morning with about 55 boxes in total. With what we have in the chill, that will keep us going for the rest of the day. Some new customers requesting fish via our internet shop for the first time so lets hope that soon become regulars. Mind you, it has taken some of my old school friends long enough to find out that we can deliver to all parts of the country, even Abingdon Carol & Ian!! The weather here is damp & grey today but lets hope that the wind does not return as hard as it did on Saturday. The forecast is meant to be more winds on Wednesday but we will have to wait & see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Calm Before the Storm?? - 2nd October 2009

With the forecast for the weekend being westerly winds touching gale force, the sun is shinning and the sea is calm. That will all change later in the day. Plenty fish landed due to the forecast with 177 boxes coming up the road so that will keep us going for the rst of the day. Not too sure what will be in the markets at the start of the week but we will have to wait and see. Alan Downie was performing last night at a local event to raise funds for Cancer Research! Do not worry, it was a "cook off" between Mr Downie and Billy Gatt which I am sure what have been a scream, and that is not from the stomach pains!! Hope you have a great weekend. Speak to you on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Wind has Started to Blow! - 1st October 2009

Looks like the winter winds have arrived early as it is really cold here today in Whitehills. Over 150 boxes from Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets today but not too sure what will be in the markets on Friday. Just have to wait and see. Cooking demo in New Deer went well last night so hopefully the local Costcutter store will see an increase in demand for Downie's fish. The orders are in for the stores in Aberdeen as well as a couple of internet orders away south today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

New Deer Tonight - 30th September 2009

Well, off on my travels once again as I am giving a demonstration to the New Deer School PTA AGM tonight. First time for everything!! Some fish from both markets again today with about 100 boxes in total. With some other jobs being done this morning that should keep everybody going for the day. The weather forecast for the end of the week is not good so not too sure how that will effect the landings. Will have to wait and see. Cold morning here in Whitehills but at least the rain has stopped! Will let you know how tonight goes on Thursday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Haddock But Nothing to Shout About - 29th September 2009

Got some haddock from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets today but they are now all processed. Looking to prepare some pies & bradies on Wednesday for putting into stock for the coming winter. That should keep some of the troops busy until some fish arrives - hopefully!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday and It's Raining - 28th September 2009

What more can I say, Mondau and it is raining. At least the weather at the weekend was great. I was off in Birmingham for a couple of days and it was warm & sunny. Just perfect for sitting outside with a few cold beers!! Some fish in the markets today but it is from Peterhead Market that we have about 60 boxes from. Not too sure how that will keep the factory going for today. To get the orders ready for this week later in the day. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing from the Markets but some from a Boat - 24th September 2009

Nothing to speak of in the markets today but we had 120 boxes delivered from a landing in Aberdeen. The haddock is fresh as paint, just perfect for our customers. That should keep the troops going for the day. Ordered some pie shells for next week as I am looking to replace some of our stock of pies as we have been busy with haddock to allow time to replenish the cold store. The Saturday market is taking place in Macduff so fingers crossed for a good turnout. I will be in Birmingham this weekend so I'll not be there. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Autumn and It's Official - 23rd September 2009

Well the cold air this morning just confirms that it is the start of autumn and it is official!! Nothing from either Fraserburgh Market or Peterhead Market this morning so it looks like we will have to find some other jobs for the troops for later in the day. Starting to think about the farmers Market this Saturday so if you are passing Macduff Fish Market then take a look in. Starting to supply the Costcutter in Kemnay from this Friday with a supply of our pre-packed fish. This has come about from my demo last week in Kemnay which went down very well indeed. So if you are reading this in Kemnay, pop along and see Paul and his colleagues to see what is available. If it is not there then ask Paul to order it. We will be delivering into Kemnay each Friday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

No Sign of the Wind, Yet! - 22nd September 2009

Well, I didn't hear the wind last night but it has driven a number of boats into the markets. About 60 boxes from Peterhead Market with a further 40 boxes from Fraserburgh Market to keep us going. May not be too much fish for later in the week though. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from the "Audacious" - 21st September 2009

Thankfully we got some haddock from the "Audacious" today that will help keep the factory going. Also received some bits 'n' pieces for the shop. Nothing too much happening as their is a wind forecast for later today and into Tuesday morning. That may blow a number of boats in to the markets. Starting to think about the Farmers Market on Saturday and no demo's this week. Mind you I did have 3 last week to make up for it!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Weekend Camping!! - 18th September 2009

Well now that the weekend is upon us and all of the demo's are done for the week all I have to look forward to is a Cub Camp this weekend. The weather should be great through the day but will be cold at night. Plenty of fish in both the markets today with a total of 368 boxes bought. That will keep us going. The demo's this week have gone very well with all of the groups happy with my banter. The chance of supplying another shop as well so that helps. Anyway, better go & get my rucksack ready. Dib, dib, dib!! Alan Stewart, factory manager.

On The Road Again!! - 16th September 2009

What a busy week for demo's this has been. I was in Inverurie last night giving a talk to Inverurie Tangent group at the Kintore Arms Hotel. My talk seemed to go down well with the ladies and they all know that they can now get Downies fish from Mitchells Dairy. 48 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning that along with what was left in the chill will keep us going for the rest of the day and a start on Thursday. More frozen fish away south today so that helps with some goods going out of our cold store. A night off tonight but I am off yo Kemnay SWRI on Thursday night. They are expecting 50 ladies there so should be a busy night. I will let you know how it all goes on Friday morning. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to the Helm Once Again - 14th September 2009

The weekends seem to pass quicker each time because before you know it, it is Monady once again! Just under 80 boxes from Fraserburgh market today so that will keep the factory ticking over for today and Tuesday. Off to Collieston SWRI tonight to do a demo as well as off another 2 later in the week so that will keep me busy. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Saturday and I Am Working - 12th September 2009

Well as you can see, it is Saturday and I am in the office. Some fish in Fraserburgh Market this mroning but the majority of the sale will be taken up with more than 400 boxes of squid!! Hope to have some fish up the road today but will have to wait & see. The forecast for the weekend looks okay so fingers crossed. Speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It is Friday and the Sun is Shining!! - 11th September 2009

Seems strange to me but with it being Friday and the sun is high in the sky. Mind you that could all change by 5pm!! Not too much fish in Fraserburgh Market but we have 48 boxes coming from Peterhead Market that should keep us going for the rest of the day what with what we had left in the chill last night. Quiet weekend with the local RNLI holding an open day on Sunday in Macduff so I hope that the weather is good for them. Have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Got There Eventually! - 10th September 2009

Well I thought that the church in Belhelvie would be easy to find. The choice of 2 roads and of course, I took the wrong 1! Had a great evening last night with about 20 ladies there to enjoy a tasting and some good banter. Plenty of haddock today with 20 bins from the "Audacious" and more than 120 boxes from Peterhead Market. Plenty to keep us going. Some orders away today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sun is Shining! - 9th September 2009

For a change, the wind has dropped and the sun is shining. Looks like we are having a late summer as this weather is due to hold until the middle of the weekend, fingers crossed! 59 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning but we are looking forward to a large delivery of haddock from the "Audacious" which is due to land later today so we hope to have a chill full of west coast haddock some time on Thursday. Off to Belhelvie SWRI tonight for the first demo of the new "season" for rural meetings. Looking forward to a fine evening and hopefully some home bakes for the office tea break on Thursday!! Will let you know how it all goes on Thursday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 7th September 2009

As normal, the weekend passes far too quickly. Some fish in the markets today with 48 boxes coming up the road for both the factory & shop. Off to Belhelvie SWRI on Wednesday night so that is the start of the cooking demo's once again. All a good bit of fun. Forecast is better for the 2nd half of the week and we are expecting fish from the "Audacious" later in the week so that will keep us going. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Rain Has Stopped, At Last! - 4th September

The rain has now stopped but their has been a lot of flooding round about the Whitehills area. 80+ boxes from Fraserburgh Market today that will keep us going for the rest of the day. Should be more fish in the market on Saturday for the start of Monday. Looking forward to the weekend off. Speak to you at the start of next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Get the Ark Ready!! - 3rd September 2009

With all the rain that has fallen and is about to fall, I think we should be looking to float a boat just shortly! Over 100 boxes from Fraserburgh Market with a further 98 boxes from Peterhead Market that should keep the factory busy for the rest of the day and a start on Friday. With the poor weather that is heading our way, that may mean a number of boats diving for cover and that could mean plenty of fish in the markets on Friday. Fingers crossed anyway. The cooking demo's start again next week when I am off to Belhelvie Church for their WRI group. Then the demo's are almost weekly after that. Speak to you later, if I don't float away that is! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing Much to Report - 2nd September 2009

Some fish in Fraserburgh Market but we only have 9 boxes coming up the road. Mind you we still have plenty haddock in the chill so we are better to clear our feet for the end of the week. 1 order away today which is off to the smallest public house in Edinburgh so if you are looking for some good food then head for the Halfway House. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some from Peterhead Market - 1st September 2009

Nothing from Fraserburgh Market today but about 70 boxes from Peterhead Market for a change. Also some fish coming from the "Audacious" which should be here later in the day. The sun is shining but rain is forecast for later in the day and into the evening. Typical!! Some orders are off & runing today now that the courier is back after their long weekend break. Okay for some to have the day off yesterday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All "Wizzed" Out - 31st August 2009

What a great 2 days we had at the "Wizard Festival" in New Deer! Very busy but great fun and banter with the people there - especially with 2 "young" ladies from Aberdeen and their kids. They said they were from Kincorth but it sounded more like they were "Torry quines" to me!! Some fish in Fraserburgh Market today with about 60 or so boxes up for the factory & shop. Should keep us going along with what came up the road on Saturday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewat, Factory Manager.

Looks like Bill's Here Late! - 28th August 2009

The wind is blowing from the West and the rain is falling quite heavily. So much for the tail end of Hurricane Bill being here on Wednesday! 133 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh Market today with a good mix for the shop. Got the Seafood Bar down to New Deer yesterday and we are in the same spot as last year - right outside the main arena so if any of our followers are at the Wizard Festival, then you know where to find us. This is if the wind has not moved us or the rain has caused us to float away. Please remember that their will be no dispatches of orders on Monday the 31st of August as FedEx are not operating a collection service that day. Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

NO COLLECTIONS ON MONDAY - 27th August 2009

Just a quick note before I head off to New Deer with the Seafood Bar. As it is a national holiday on Monday, their will be no collections of packages for orders from Whitehills on Monday. Some fish from Fraserburgh Market today that will keep us going all day as well as a start for Friday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, factory Manager.

No Sign of Bill Yet - 26th August 2009

That is Hurricane Bill by the way! So much for my forecast yesterday that we would be blown about in the wind & rain. Nothing so far anyway. 68 boxes from Fraserburgh Market with a further 49 from Peterhead Market that will not be here until after lunchtime. Hopefully we should have some work to keep the troops going until the fish arrives. That's the Seafood Bar ready for the weekend and all we need now is some good weather - fingers crossed!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing to Really Mention from Fraserburgh - 25th August 2009

Only 152 boxes in Fraserburgh Market this morning but some fish for the shop on it's way. Told that the tail end of Hurrican Bill from the United States is due to hit us on Wednesday so you better hold onto your hats! Hopefully it will have blown itself out by the weekend for the Wizard Festival. Saw an advert on TV last night for the festival so hopefully that will draw more people to New Deer this Friday & Saturday. Not too sure about fish being landed for Wednesday's market but fingers crossed as the troops are clearing the fish from the chill very quickly indeed. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Very Little Landed but Plenty in our Chill - 24th August 2009

Nothing much landed in Fraserburgh Market this morning but we have a chill full of haddock as well as other bit's and pieces to keep the factory going certainly today and most of Tuesday. The weather has been changable in Whitehills today but at least the rain has stopped after yesterday. The Seafood Bar is almost ready for the Wizard Festival this weekend - all we need now is some good dry weather!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday and it is NOT Raining - yet! - 21st August 2009

Hard to beleive that it is Friday already, the days seem to be flying past. Quite a bit of fish in Fraserburgh Market with 144 boxes coming up the road for the factory & shop so that should keep the troops busy for the day. Seems strange that as it is Friday the rain has not started but I suppose I should wait and see what it is like nearer five o'clock!! Nothing planned for this weekend but starting to get ready for The Wizard Festival in New Deer. The festival is growing every time you open the local paper with now 4 stages being held for the weekend. We will be there with our Seafood Bar offering fish & chips, scampi & chips, Cullen Skink Soup and even the odd kipper. No, I am not speaking about Mr Downie!! If any of you are there, please drop by and say that you read the blog. Speak to you at the start of the week and have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Fish Around - 19th August 2009

Well their is plenty of fish being landed in the markets over the past few days with a further 109 boxes coming up from Fraserburgh Market for the factory & shop as well as some fish from the "Audacious". The "Audacious" landed early due to a problem with some of the winches on the boat. Every cloud has a silver lining! The weather does not look too good toady with the rain just started. The rest of the day is forecast for rain. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday's Fish fae Fraserburgh - 14th August 2009

Well here we are again, Friday morning and the forecast for the weekend is poor to say the least! Rain, rain and more rain!! 120 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning to keep the factory & shop going. Not too sure if their will be any fish in the market on Saturday but fingers crossed. No shows this weekend, a nice quiet one for a change. Have a great weekend and speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Changeable Weather in Whitehills - 12th August 2009

One minute it is raining then the next it is warm & sunny!! Typical day in Whitehills. 125 boxes from Fraserburgh Market that will keep the factory going for today and a start on Thursday. The shop will have a good selection and we have some fresh herring today but not too sure for how long as the herring quota is almost exhausted. About to offer 4lb boxes of our whole tail scampi both in the shop in Whitehills as well as on the internet so if you are looking for some new products, just take a look. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back Online Again - 11th August 2009

Normal service has been resumed after our computer "broke down" as I do not know the technical term. Fish from Fraserburgh Market today as well as fish from the "Audacious" to keep both the factory & shop supplied. 50 boxes from Fraserburgh this morning but we had plenty on Saturday and Monday. No outings for the Seafood Bar until Friday the 28th of August when we will be at the Wizard Festival in New Deer for a couple of days. If any of you are going, please give us a shout. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 7th August 2009

Well here we are again at the end of another week. Fingers crossed for a sunny weekend as it is Whitehills Marina Regatta as Mr Downie is cooking at the BBQ. 86 boxes from Fraserburgh Market for the shop & factory. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager

What A Show!! - 4th August 2009

Well that was a very busy 2 days at Turriff Show!! The Sunday was exceptionally busy especially when the rain started - that resulted in the Food Fayre Marquee being so full that NOBODY could move never mind get their hands into their pockets to buy fish from Downies!! I have never seen a marquee be so full. The show was a great success and if you were there then you will know that and if you were not then I would suggest that you make tracks for Turriff in 2010 for next years show as what a great day out it is between the variety of stalls as well as the events that are held within the main show ring. No fish from the market today so the troops are away home early so fingers crossed for fish in the markets on Wednesday morning. A lot of orders were dispatched on Monday as well as a number lined up for the end of the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday and the Sun is Still Shining! - 31st July 2009

Well, what more can I say - it is Friday, thanks goodness, and the sun is still shining for Turriff Show weekend. But as we all know, that can change at the drop of a hat. Looks like we could get some rain in Turriff on Sunday & Monday but hopefully not too much to put a dampner on the Show. 130 + boxes from Fraserburgh Market to keep the factory & shop busy today and for a start on Monday. A great variety for the shop & Turriff Show to keep you all happy. Make sure that if you are attending Turriff Show to look us up within the Food Fayre or at our Seafood Bar. Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Check Out the History Page - 29th July 2009

The weather has taken a turn back towards what it should be for this time of year with blue skies and some warmth in the sun. Have a look at the updated History Page where we will keep you up to date with different things that involve Downies of Whitehills. Please let me know what you think about the small changes we have made to the site as this is the only way we know if what we are doing is helping you, the customer. 70 boxes from Fraserburgh Market that will keep the factory ticking over for today but not too sure what fish is being landed at the end of the week. Hopefully their will be quite a bit as we need for Turriff Show on Sunday & Monday. Remember, if you are at Turriff Show then you will be able to find the Seafood Bar just outside the Food Fayre overlooking the main ring with our fish counter inside the Food Fayre. Look round by. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 27th July 2009

As it is Monday again, the rain has started to fall once again. 72 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh this morning which should keep the factory & shop going for the rest of the the day as well as a start for Tuesday. Had the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday which not too busy but we are starting to get ready for Turriff Show on Sunday & Monday. Hopefully the weather will improve before then. Some existing customers are ordering once again so a number of orders away this week. The "Halfway House" pub in Edinburgh is increasing their orders week on week so their customers must be enjoying both the soup & pies. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back from My Travels - 24th July 2009

It hardly seems just 2 weeks ago I left on my travels to the States for my holidays but here I am once again keeping you up to date with what is happening here in Whitehills. Whenever I went into any of the large supermarkets, I was strangely drawn to their fish/seafood counters. Strange, but I never saw any haddock!! Over 2700 boxes in Peterhead Market with more than 670 boxes in Fraserburgh Market for Alan Downie to choose from. Hopefully we should get plenty for both the factory & shop today as we have the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday to contend with. After that we will have to start thinking about Turriff Show which starts on Sunday the 2nd of August where we will have our fish shop in the Food Fayre as well as our Seafood Bar for the crowds of people to enjoy our range of freshly cooked fish or scampi as well as our Cullen Skink Soup. Will let you know how we get on at the farmers Market at the start of the week. The weather here is quite muggy after the heavy rain as well as thunder & lightening we had here yesterday afternoon. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Last Entry for 2 Weeks - 6th July 2009

Well, here it is, the last entry for 2 weeks. Will leave you in the safe hands of the "Blogmaster" so that he will keep you up to date when I am away on my hols. Speak to you on my return. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yep. It's Me - 4th July 2009

Just a quick note as I am about to leave for Portsoy. If any of you are considering coming to Portsoy but unsure of the weather, here is a report: Misty to start with at 6am but with the sun rising, the mist is starting to burn off. Looks like it is going to be a hot one! Fingers crossed for a great weekend. Hope to see you all there. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Quiet Weekend Ahead?? - 3rd July 2009

Yes it is Friday once again and I am looking forward to a nice quiet weekend relaxing before I go off on holiday on Monday. NOT!!!!! This weekend is the Portsoy Boat Festival and with the weather looking to be dry but the odd shower, it should be good for sales both in the shop at the Food Fayre as well as our Seafood Bar. Both are open on Saturday & Sunday so I look forward to seeing you there on either day. Some fish in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets with 102 boxes coming back to the factory to keep the troops busy as well as the shop well stocked. Will speak to you all on Monday if I have time but if not, the "Blogmaster" will keep you in the frame with regards to what is happening. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back Safely from Edinburgh - 29th June 2009

Well back to Whitehills late last night but too say that I was tierd is an understatement!! 4 days of speaking & selling goods to customers is not an easy job. Had difficulty in keeping up supplies of Cullen Skink Soup over the 4 days and let's not forget the fact that I was introduced to Her Majesty, The Queen. Do not worry, I ensured that the Queen received a complimentary tub of soup as well as a packet of our Hot Smoked Salmon, Bradie, key ring & fridge magnet for the Palace. What a pleasent conversation I had telling her about what we did here in Whitehills. You never know, the next time she is passing Whitehills.....? Getting ready now for Portsoy Boat Festival at the weekend and it looks like it should be a good one. Will speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Bags are Packed and the Fish is Ready - 24th June 2009

The sun is shining ready for me to travel in a warm van all the way to Edinburgh. Hope that the air conditioning is working! Some fish from Fraserburgh Market today as well as from the "Russa Taign" that should keep the factory busy for today and the start of Thursday. Still plenty fresh herring available in the shop and our new 3-way cook skinless & boneless breaded haddock are selling very well in the shop. Remember that if any of you are at the Highland Show then please look us up in the Food Hall. Speak to you at the start of next week, if the "Blogmaster" does not take over!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sun is Shining But Not Much Haddock - 23rd June 2009

The sky's are blue, the sea is calm but not much haddock for the factory today. Some bits and peices for the shop but nothing to get really excited about. Getting ready for the Royal Highland Show and it seems that the weather is going to be favourable for the end of the week. Hopefully that will not put people off buying some of our fish!! Speak to you on Wednesday morning before I head off. Remember to look by our stand if you are at the show. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish to Keep Us Going - 22nd June 2009

A change from the end of last week when their was fish galore in the markets. Only 45 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today but along with the 140 from Saturday, that will certainly keep the troops busy for the start of the week. Chunky has plenty to do with getting all of the fish ready for the Royal Highland Show. That should keep him busy alright!! The forecast for the rest of the week is hot & warm which should be good for numbers at the show but it may dampen their spend on fish but we will have to wait & see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It's Raining so it Must Be Friday!! - 19th June 2009

Why does it always rain at the weekend? I thought that the forecast for the weekend was meant to be warm & dry but it looks like I am wrong once again. The weather is meant to be good for next week at the Highland Show, when I will be stuck inside a warm food hall for 4 days. So, to the "Blogmaster", I will be working hard for the 4 days no matter what you think!! 136 boxes from Fraserburgh market this morning but hopefully we should have most of that cut today leaving us with fish to start the week with from Saturday's market as well. Plenty to choose from in the shop with plenty of fresh herring still available. Why not come in and try our new coated haddock product which can be cooked either in the oven, deep or shallow fried to your own preference. Once tasted, never forgotten!! Hope you all have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of what is going to be a very busy week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Normal Service is Resumed - 18th June 2009

So much for the "Blogmaster" and his smart comments!! I have been working towards the Royal Highland Show for next week. Downies have been asked to supply some of our quality seafood for 1 of the demonstrations on Saturday the 27th of June so if you are at the show, look out for the demo by Rosemary Armitage. 65 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today so hopefully that should allow us to clear the rest of the haddock from the chill today from yesterday. More internet orders away today with a request for Hot Smoked Salmon sides for a christening party at the weekend from a new client. The smallest pub in Edinburgh is loking for their first order to be dispatched on Monday so if you are looking for some soup at "The halfway House" in Edinburgh then it will be Downies Cullen Skink Soup that will be on the menu. Better get back to my list for next week in case the "Blogmaster" thinks that I am not working. By the way, became a Great Uncle on Tuesday so best wishes to Gareth and Eilidh on the arrival of Lydia. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

When Will It Stop Raining? - 17th June 2009

Not only has it been raining haddock over the past few days but it seems that it does not know when to stop raining either. 45 Boxes up from Fraserburgh Market today just to add some more to the fish in the chill. Plenty to keep us going with a couple of new orders away today & Thursday. Check out our new testimonials page for the comments made by happy customers. Looks like they seem to approve what we are doing here just now but we can not rest on our laurels. Speak to you later, if we do not float away! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

alans going to be busy 17.6.09

well just read the blog from yesterday and read about the highland show well I have have not seen any list so I guess alan is going to be very busy the blog hi-jacker ;}

And Still Their is More Haddock!! - 16th June 2009

And they say that their is no fish in the seas around Scotland but going by what is in the markets today they are are wrong. 131 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today to go along side all of the fish from Saturday and Monday but that will certainly keep the troops busy for the next few days. Started getting things together for the Highland Show next week. Well, the list is made out to make sure that I do not forget anything!! If any of you are at the show, then please make sure to come in past on stand number 11 on the Aberdeen City & Shire stand which is taking centre stage of the Food Hall. Their will be a small selection of goods available to buy just to show you how good our products are. The sun is shining here in Whitehills at the moment but their are storms due in on Wednesday so we had better batten down the hatches. Speak to you on Wednesday, if we are not blown away!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Even More Fish Today!! - 15th June 2009

With the chill full of fish from Saturday's market and then another 160 boxes today, looks like it is going to be a busy week ahead of us! Plenty to choose from in the shop as well. The Saturday shop boy "done good" on Friday at the Tri-Cadet National Banner Competition in Perth coming second to go along side his first for last year. A great effort once again. That meant Diane & Lynne were looking after the shop last Saturday for a change of personel. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Haddock Galore Not Whisky Galore! - 11th June 2009

Haddock's coming out of our ears!! So much fish in the markets today that's what it seems like. In excess of 130 boxes from Fraserburgh Market that will definately keep the factory going today and for a start on Friday morning. Heard from Alan Downie, salmon sourcer supreme, and he still has not landed a fish yet. Thankfully we have some salmon coming from Shetland on Friday morning to keep the factory going rather than depend on Mr Downie!! The weather here in Whitehills is okay at the moment but the forecast is for HEAVY rain later. Hopefully we will not have any of the flooding that they have down south. Fresh herring again in the shop today which is slightly larger than earlier in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing for Today Except for the Shop - 10th June 2009

Just as it says, the 4 boxes from Fraserburgh Market are for the shop only. A bit cooler here in Whitehills today but we did not have the rain that was forecast for Tuesday. Some orders are ready for dispatch today to head for Glasgow and I am awaiting feedback from our new Edinburgh customer as to what they think of our soup & pies. The new testimonial section on the web site gives us the opportunity to let you know what other people think of our service and quality. Still no fish for Alan Downie. Seems their has been only 1 salmon actually landed for the whole party. Just as well we are not depending on the salmon for the shop!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

More Fishy Tales - 9th June 2009

"The only one to catch salmon but not been able to land any yet"! Seems like a very fishy tale to me but that is Alan Downie for you. He is "sourcing" salmon on the West Coast of Scotland with a few of his friends. No fish from Fraserburgh Market this morning but that will give us the chance to clear what haddock we have in the chill for a clean start on Wednesday morning. Some orders going away on Wednesday and note that their is still fresh herring available both online and in the shop itself. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 8th June 2009

Monday's seem to appear quicker and quicker! Some fish in the markets today with 30+ boxes of haddock from Fraserburgh Market to keep the 130+ from Saturday company in the chill. Some changes have been made to the web site that should make a difference. If you have ordered in the past and have some comments to make, drop us an e-mail to let us know what you think. The golf on Sunday was not too hot but the company and venue were excellent. Alan Downie is away "sourcing" salmon this week with some of his friends at Corriemulzie up the West Coast of Scotland. He told me that this morning he was on the river at 5.30am and with his first cast, he caught a fish but "his line broke". A very fishy tale if you ask me!! Looks like I may have to arrange salmon from our existing suppliers. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday and The Rain Has Started - 5th June 2009

Why oh why does it always rain at the weekends? Just when you are looking forward to a fine weekend, the rain and even hail stones start falling. Just hope that the weather changes in time for Sunday at Turriff. I hope you have noticed that the price for a small box of frozen breaded lemon sole has been reduced from £10.99 a box to £8.99 per box. Not a bad price for a 4lb box of quality product even if I do say so myself. 108 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning with an additional 18 boxes on the way from Peterhead Market. That includes a great selection for both the shop and internet. Was giving a talk at Portsoy Primary School yesterday and giving Primary 5 the chance to try some Hot Smoked Mackerel Pate and also showed them how easy it was to make. They all seemed to enjoy the talk. I understand that Alan Smith from Smiths Fishmerchants in Sandend is giving them a talk and demonstartion of filleting fish. They should enjoy that. Received a request for our soup from the smallest pub in Edinburgh yesterday so fingers crossed that we could soon be supplying our award winning Cullen Skink Soup in the capital of Scotland I will let you know how we get on later. Have a great weekend and I hope the sun shines on Edzell on Sunday as I off golfing. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Herring and A Cold Wind!! - 4th June 2009

Well all I can say is that I hope that this is not winter arriving early. The wind is from the North and it is certainly colder than it was at the weekend. Never mind, their is still plenty fresh herring in the shop with more arriving today. It seems that this will have to cover the shop for today, Friday, Saturday and Monday as some of the boats are not due back in until the start of the week. Some fish in Fraserburgh Market and Peterhead Market but not too sure what we have coming up the road. Hope the weather changes for the Pipe Band Championships on Sunday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

IT HAS ARRIVED!! - 3rd June 2009

The first of this years herring has arrived into the shop & internet shop for you all to enjoy!! The weather has taken a change with it being a lot cooler than it was at the weekend. Even talking about ground frost tonight with snow on the higher ground!! So much for summer. I hope that last weekend was not our summer. Starting to get the Seafood Bar ready for the Turriff & District Pipe Band Championships on Sunday. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us all. After that, the next project is the Royal Highland Show at the end of the month where we will be selling our wares for all to enjoy. Some fish from both Peterhead & Fraserburgh markets this morning but only a total of 44 boxes which means it could be an early finish for the staff today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Just Like the Med - 29th May 2009

The sun is beating down here in Whitehills and it is getting warmer as the day goes by. Plenty of fish in the markets today with 174 boxes up the road from both the shop & factory. It looks as if their could be plenty of BBQ's this weekend so their is salmon for you to enjoy over the weekend. Hope that you all enjoy the weekend and the beautiful weather. Speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish up the Road - 27th May 2009

Some fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning with 81 boxes up the road for both the shop & factory. That should keep them going for today. Some orders away today to some existing customers so we must be doing something right with the quality & service we are offering. The weather has taken a slight turn for the worse but the forecast for the weekend is hot, hot, hot!! Lets hope that they are correct. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

So Much for Summer - 26th May 2009

Well if last week was summer, looks like autumn has arrived this morning as the rain has been falling through most of the night. Just received a call for shoppie Carol from Mr Murray in Ghana. I bet he does not have any rain!! However, he did offer to see if their was any tuna in the Ghana fish markets!! Some fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning but we are expecting 6 bins of gutted haddock from Klash last night so that will top up what we already have in the chill. Fish in Peterhead Market but I would expect them to be very expensive. Hope that the rain is not on for the day but I will speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Bank Holiday But We Are Open - 25th May 2009

Just as it says, the shop is open today with Mrs Murray back at the helm after her 2 week holiday to see her daughter and family. Looks like it was hot going by her colour! 96 boxes of fish coming up the road from Fraserburgh Market which will keep the factory going as we had 117 boxes from Saturday. The Seafood Bar was steady over the weekend at the "Coast" festival but nothing that Denise & Fiona could not handle. The sun was shining on Sunday a bit more than it was on Saturday. Some orders going away this week through the internet. Next big event is the Royal Highland Show at the end of June which should be good for us, fingers crossed. The rain has started but hopefully it will not last too long. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty Fish for FRiday - 22nd May 2009

The markets have plenty fish today with in excess of 5,000 in Pterhead and almost 1,000 in Fraserburgh. We should get some for the shop & factory if not for processing today, certainly for Monday morning. The "Coast" festival will have the pleasure of our Seafood Bar on Saturday. It all depends on which weather forecast you look at for the weather we are due to get. If you watch the TV it is going to be the warmest weekend of the year but according to the internet, we are due for heavy rain on Saturday!! What will be will be. Hope you all have a great weekend and remember that their are no orders being dispatched on Monday as their is no courier uplifts. Speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Rain, Thunder & Lightening and More Rain! - 21st May 2009

Well at least we had some fish from Fraserburgh today for the shop before all of the rain and thunder hit us. Hope that the weather changes for the weekend and the "Coast" festival. Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible as I will be in attendance in our Seafood Bar on Saturday morning to assist with my cookery skills. 31 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning with a couple of orders off and running before the weekend. Please note that due to their being a Bank Holiday on Monday, their will be NO COLLECTIONS on Monday for Tuesday delivery. The next dispatch day is Tuesday the 26th of May. Hope you can last that long before having fish delivered. Just checked the seafood bar to ensure that all of the required utensils are present. Just some cups and gloves required. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cool But Dry - 20th May 2009

About 30 boxes coming from Fraserburgh Market this morning to keep the shop going but nothing really for the factory. Packing up more pies and bradies for the cold store as hopefully we will have a busy summer ahead. Starting to think about what we will be taking to the Royal Highland Show at the end of June. Not too sure what the forecast is for the weekend and the "Coast" festival in Banff & Macduff. You can not plan the weather! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Difference a Day Makes - 19th May 2009

The suns is shining, the air is warm and Alan Downie is off the Peterhead Market himself today in the search for fish for both the factory and the shop. I hope he remebers where to go!?! Got the fish from the weekend all cut yesterday as well as some more bradies made for our stocks. Getting the Seafood Bar ready for the "Coast" festival this weekend where our Seafood Bar will be in Macduff selling our wares. Hope to see as many of you there as possible. Will let you know on Wednesday how Alan Downie got on in Peterhead. Off to enjoy the sun - chance would be a fine thing!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not So Warm Today - 15th May 2009

Just in time for the weekend, the sun has disappeared!! Cooler in Whitehills with a LOT of rain forecast for later. 74 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning which will help keep the factory ticking over for the start of next week. Still plenty of fish for the shop. Should be a big sale of "Banffies" next week as I had my photo taken with the local MEP and prospective MSP with some of the fish up from Fraserburgh market yesterday. That should keep the mice away!! Nothing planned for the weekend. Will speak to you at the start of next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Best Behaviour Today - 14th May 2009

Must make sure that we are all on our best behaviour today as we have a number of MSP's & MEP's visiting us today. Better landings in the markets today with over 4000 boxes in Peterhead Market and some fish in Fraserburgh Market that should keep the shop & factory going. We will have a lot of breaded products to pack up today for stock and their is the possibility of breading even more today. The pies & bradies are being re-stocked for the summer and autumn. Heard yesterday that our application to attend the "Wizard Festival" at New Deer was successful. We had a great few days last year and the line-up is even better this year as a number of smaller events have been cancelled. Will let you know on Friday how the visit went. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Much Happening in the Markets - 13th May 2009

Well, the sun is shining but not too much in the markets over the last few days. The "Audacious" has returned to port needing work done on the drive shaft then she is to be re-painted to keep her nice and fresh. We are having the chance to put some of our products into the cold store such as our breaded haddock and our wide arnge of pies & pastries. Our soup is as poular as ever and we have been asked to supply a new store in Elgin. You can now buy and order our goods from the Costcutter Store in Morrison Road in Elgin. Pop in and see what they can do to help. We should hear at some point this week if our application to be at the "Wizard Festival 2009" at New Deer has been successful so fingers crossed as the line up for the 2 days is getting better all of the time. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Normal Service Has Been Resumed - 7th May 2009

Well bloggers, here I am back at long last after my "business excursions" to ESE in Brussels, the biggest seafood show in Europe. I call them business excursions as my family think that I am away on a holiday!! The show was massive as ever but to me, their seemed to be less people attending. The Seafood Scotland stand was well attended and the tasters offered were second to none. Downie even supplied the smoked hake for the fish soup which went down very well indeed. We "had to attend" the Scottsih evening on the Tuesday night which offered free Scottish beer and whisky to try as well as an excellent buffet comprising Scottish Seafood & beef. The factory has been busy whilst I have been away with a lot of new customers using the internet shop for the first time. I am sure that it will not be too long before they are back once again. The weather has been very mixed but the wind earlier today has eased off but it has blown a large number of boats into port. I understand that the "Audacious" is being towed in as we speak and that is the first time in a long time that Billy Gatt has skippered the boat. So much for the old hand being able to fill the boat like the last few trips have done with David & Barry at the helm. Perhaps the "old" skipper should leave it to the "young guns"? Will make sure it is not so long before the next blog-cast. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Big Haddocks in the Shop Today!! - 22nd April 2009

With some large haddock from the Wset Coast yesterday, this has meant that the haddock in the shop are big to say the least!! Great quality, as normal, for our Lemon Soles today with the possibility of a good mixed range in the markets on Thursday morning. The sun is shinning once again and the shop has been quite busy. Mind you, the sun was shinning yesterday morning but by lunch time, the rain was pouring down!! I just hope that this is not our summer. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Boy, What A Heat! - 20th April 2009

Makes a change saying that is is very hot for Whitehills. The sun has been shinning for 3 days now but I hope that this is not our summer. Only 10 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today but their is enough fish to keep the shop supplied until the rest of the boats land later in the week. Noticed that "Trawlermen" is becoming a hit in Austrailia with quite large numbers of viewers. Good to see that thie is worldwide interest in our industry. Getting ready to the European Seafood Exposition next week when Alan Downie and myself head out to Brussels to catch up with what is happening in the fishing industry. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Looking for the "Audacious" - 14th April 2009

Strange to say this but we are looking forward to the "Audacious" landing later today as that will give us some fish for the factory & shop for the rest of the week. Word is that they have quite a bit of haddock on board. Hope to get a variety of fish for the shop for the end of the week. That should keep the shoppie quines happy!! Nothing from any markets this morning but the shop has plenty to keep us going until the "Audacious" lands. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Beautiful Day - 13th April

What more can I say, the sun is shinning, the sea is blue and calm and the shop is open to the public. Some fish from the "Adventurer" for the factory & shop with a great overall selection. Unable to dispatch any Internet orders as the courier firm is closed for the Ester Weekend. Should be able to have goods away on Tuesday. The shop in Whitehills has been exceptionally busy on Friday and Saturday as well as that, I was doing a tasting day at Mitchells Dairy in Inverurie with our Cullen Skink Soup. I had taken a bit of soup as a back up for the shop and it was so busy, their was no soup taken back to Whitehills. Off to Strichen this Thursday for a SWRI demonstration and they hope to have about 20 members there for the demo. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yep, Still Here!! - 10th April 2009

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water!! A great line from "Jaws" but also quite apt as I have been here but not keeping you up to date with all that is happening in the world of Downies. Have had some fish from the markets as well as directly from boats working on the West side of Scotland. Been busy attracting some new retail customers in the Aberdeen area as well as undertaking some tasting days at the likes of Makro in Aberdeen as well as at Mitchells in Inverurie tomorrow to coincide with the Farmers Market. Plenty chance to come & try our Cullen Skink Soup as well as our Breaded Haddock Singles. Hopefully the weather will be good to encourage plenty of people out for their Easter Weekend shopping. Plenty of orders have been heading away over the past while to both new and existing customers. Some great lemon sole available from the markets so now is the time to buy some wonderful quality fish, as ever! Will make sure that it is not so long until I speak to you again and remember that the shop in Whitehills is open on Saturday until 11am then from 8am until 5pm on Easter Monday. Hope to see you all in the shop! Have a great weekend and speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold & Damp in Whitehills - 26th March 2009

The rain is falling and the weather girl is saying snow on higher ground!! I thought that we were heading for spring not heading back to winter. Some orders in for dispatch next week and the factory should be busy as we still have plenty of haddock from the "Audacious" to keep us going. Some of our Cullen Skink Soup heading for Aberdeen Farmers Market on Saturday so if you are there, look for our soup at Granite City Fish stall. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Here Folks - 25th March 2009

Sorry about the delay on posting the site. Have been off on the road into Aberdeen visiting a nuimber of stores which hopefully will allow the people of Aberdeen to enjoy Downies quality products. Some fish in the markets the last few days but we have fish coming from the "Audacious" later this morning. That will keep the factory and shop going for the rest of the week, hopefully! No demo's this week or next but will be back on the road next week again. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

I Survived Cuminestown - 20th March 2009

Yes but only just!! What a great night I had in Cuminestown last night with about 40 ladies listening to some of the stories I had to tell about the goings on here at Downies. They were all looking for me in my suit & bow tie after the Food Awards on Wednesday night but I thought that I would "dress down" and just have on my jeans and Downie shirt. Everybody seemed to enjoy their evening with all of the fish being sold. It looked like sale day at Harrods for a while!! No fish in Fraserburgh today but we did get some fish from the "Russa Taign" last night to cover the shop today. Looks like it could be an early finish for some of the troops today. The forecast for the weekend seems to be good so fingers crossed that the shop will be busy on Saturday. Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Bow Tie & Suit Tonight - 18th March 2009

No the above is not the new uniform for the factory!! Alan Downie and myself are off to the Grampian Food Awards dinner tonight in Aberdeen. We did not enter this year but have some ideas up our sleeves for next year. It is always good to see what new ideas are on the go in Aberdeenshire from all different sides of the food & drink industry. It also means the chance to catch up with some people you only see once a year. I will let you know who gets what on Thursday morning. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

"Audacious" Fish has Arrived - 16th March 2009

Thankfully the fish from the "Audacious" arrived safely here this morning but with little sign of any other fish this week, it looks like this will have to last us the bulk of the week. We will have to wait and see if anything else is landed at either Fraserburgh or Peterhead markets. Off to Cuminestown this Thursday for another demo. We already supply the local Costcutter with a variety of fish each Thursday so fingers crossed that the demo may assist them in moving more fish on a weekly basis. Some of the new stores we approached last week are looking to take some fish this week but that is in the Elgin area as well as up country. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not A Bone Fae Fraserburgh - 13th March 2009

Just as I have said, it was a wasted journey to the market today for Alan Downie as with so little amount of fish, we have nothing coming up the road. Hopefully we will have enough fish to keep us going until the fish from the "Audacious" is here first thing on Monday morning. A successful night in Elgin last night with about 45 - 48 ladies there from 3 different rurals. The samples went down very well. I have been given the names of a couple of shops that may be interested in taking some of our packed fish on a weekly basis so fingers crossed. I even won a raffle last night of a bar of Toblerone chocolate. That should keep me quiet for a while over the weekend!! The weather here is okay so far this morning but I am not too sure about what is going to happen over the weekend. Have a great one anyway. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Bright but Breezy - 12th March 2009

Only 14 boxes in Fraserburgh Market this morning so nothing up the road except some prawns for making scampi. No matter how quick we prepare & pack the scampi, it seems to be flying off the shelf at the moment. You can not hide quality!! Off to Elgin tonight so getting ready to pack the van with ovens and utensils for the 50 or so ladies tonight. Should be a great night. I will let you know about it all on Friday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from the West at the Weekend - 11th March 2009

Still nothing to speak of in the markets but we are almost clear of the fish from the start of the week. We hope to have the "Audacious" landing at the weekend so the haddock should be here on Monday along with bits 'n' pieces for the shop. Getting ready for Bishopmill SWRI on Thursday night and I have heard that some of the ladies having been speaking about me to some of the local stores to see if they will take our fish products on a weekly basis. Some internet orders off today to a number of new customers so we must be doing something right. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Beautiful Sunny day in Whitehills - 1oth March 2009

The sun is shinning but their is still a cold breeze coming from the West. Little to no fish to speak of today but as the chill is still to the door, their is no panic just yet. Plenty of scampi to prepare as we are running short in our stocks but this is all due to the excellent quality of the product. Alan Downie is off to source some new stores to take our fish into in the Elgin direction and with me up there doing a demo on Thursday, between the 2 of us, this should help out the situation. Their is a need for an outlet for Downies Quality Fish in Elgin. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again! - 9th March 2009

Nothing from the markets today as we have received haddock from a boat called the "Russa Taign" which will keep the factory busy for the next few days. The weather forecast for the week is not too great with wind coming from the west for the whole week. No real gales but perhaps enough to keep some of the boats tied up for a few days. Off to Elgin on Thursday night to do a cooking demo for Bishopmill SWRI. they are expecting about 50 - 70 ladies there so here is hoping that it will be a great night. Looks like we will be supplying fish to the Costcutter in Ellon having spoken to the manager there today. He also has the Mintlaw shop which is also on our route on Thursdays. The orders for Wednesday are in but with the Cod & Haddock roe now finished, the orders are down slightly but we will have to tempt the customers with something else instead. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish but the Chill is Full - 6th February 2009

Peterhead Market had more than Fraserburgh but with our chill still being full, their was no need to buy fish for either the shop or factory. Plenty haddock to get through as well as prawns for scampi to be done. Was at Esslemont SWRI last night just outside Ellon. Had a bit of difficulty in finding the place but once I was there, we had a great evening with about 25 ladies present. The dishes went down well not to mention that I had to judge the scone making contest. No body said that this job would be easy!! Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty of Haddock in the Chill - 4th February 2009

The chill is full of haddock and Alan Downie has yet to go to the market. Fish from the "Audacious" as well as the "Alskere" to keep us going until the start of next week. Orders are away for this week and i am off to Esslemont SWRI this evening just outside Ellon to give a cooking demo to about 25 "young" ladies. I have been asked to judge a couple of items tonight. I will let you know how things go on Friday morning. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Normal Service Has Been Resumed - 2nd March 2009

Well that is me back from my course - not a holiday as some people thought!! I am now fully certified in Advanced Seafood Quality. Some people do say that I should be certified!! 66 boxes in total from Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets today but that will not keep the factory busy for too long. The orders for the Wednesday run are higher than last wek so we must be doing something to keep the shops busy. Not too sure if their will be much fish later in the week but the "Audacious" is landing on Tuesday evening so we will have some fish for the shop & factory on Wednesday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Back to the Desk after a Weeks Course - 27th February 2009

That's me back to the helm after a weeks course in Fraserburgh. I was on a Seafood Quality Management Course through Seafish to be able to ascertain the quality of fish taken into the factory. Will be able to get back to the blogging next week. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Possibly Some Fish from Paterhead - 18th February 2009

With nothing to shout about in Fraserburgh Market today, their is the possibility of some fish from Peterhead Market but as the sale is still going on, I am unsure what is coming up the road. The weather is a lot milder today but the forecast is for plenty rain at the weekend. Typical!! Back on the road tomorrow as I am off to Turriff for a cooking demo so fingers crossed for a good turnout. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to the Helm - 17th February 2009

Well that's me back to the helm after a few days away to Nairn. 86 boxes from Peterhead Market today as very little of interest to us in Fraserburgh Market today. Getting ready for the first demo of the year at Turriff Royal British Legion on Thursday night so hopeful of a good turnout now that the snow has disappeared. Better weather for the rest of the week so that should keep the shop a bit busier. Off on a course next week to Fraserburgh through Seafish. It is dealing with Seafood Quality Management which is vital to ensure that we are looking after the interest's of our customers. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Don't Forget it's Valentines Day on Saturday - 13th February 2009

Just in case any of you forgot, it is Valentine's Day on Saturday - not that I would even dare to forget!! Plenty salmon, halibut, scallops and lemon sole in the shop today just in case you are looking to have a romantic meal for 2 on Saturday. 67 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning as well as some fish from Shetland for the factory and shop. The cold weather seems to have moved on today with clear skies and calm seas all around us. Have a day off on Monday but you never know, the "Blog Hijacker" may be about to keep you up to date. Have a great & romantic weekend. Speak to you on Tuesday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Big Sales of the "Fishing News" - 12th February 2009

It is amazing what some people will do to get their photo in the paper. Alan Downie is centre of the photo on the back page of this weeks "Fishing News" as 1 of the buyers of 2 boxes of cod landed from the first trip of the "Pleides". The funds from the sale are given to the local RNLI & Fishermens Mission. Both great causes. 86 boxes from Fraserburgh market today to keep the shop & factory going. The snow has started to fall again which may result in the shop being a bit quieter. Yet more orders away south today and some of the orders delivered earlier in the week have resulted in some excellent feedback from the customers. Spread the word!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Where Did That Come From?? - 11th February 2009

The snow that fell within the space of a couple of hours last night has caused some real problems with the roads today. Alan Downie got to the market in Fraserburgh today and their are 67 boxes coming up the road for the factory. More orders going away today and hopefully the road conditions will not effect the courier run. A lot of schools closed in Aberdeenshire due to the weather so some of the kids will be able to go sledging later today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some from Fraserburgh but More from Peterhead-10th February 2009

Just under 30 boxes from Fraserburgh with an unknown quantity from Peterhead but could be as much as 130 boxes. That will help keep the troops happy and stop them feeling the cold. A rather frosty morning here in Whitehills but not as frosty as it was yesterday. Shop has been quiet but not unexpected. Some more orders away today with more for dispatch on Wednesday and Thursday. Starting to supply a new deli in Aberdeen called "Rocksalt & Snails" with our Cullen Skink Soup. Another outlet for people to enjoy our range of products. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager. P.S. Are you still watching Mr Hodie??

Snow Starting to Move But Very Icey!! - 9th February 2009

Brrrrrrr!! Never felt it so cold except in the cold store as it is here in Whitehills today. The snow is starting to move but is replaced by ice. Some schools have been closed due to the weather but as normal, Downies are open for business. 59 boxes from Fraserburgh Market for the shop & factory as well as some bits 'n' pieces from the "Audacious" for the shop. Been hearing that some Whitehillers are looking at the blog to see what is happening from all parts of the world. Well, for Colin Findlay in South Africa, we had a great night on Saturday celebrating the Silver Wedding of Billy & Shona Gatt. Billy is the owner of the "Audacious" but some people could not attend due to working away. Not too sure about the dispatch of orders but I hope to have them moving on Tuesday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Wintery Night - 6th February 2009

Snow on the ground, schools closed but Downies are still open for business. Well, almost as I am unable to dispatch orders due to the uncertainty about road conditions south of here. Hopefully get the orders away early next week. 21 boxes coming from Fraserburgh Market to keep the shop ticking over. Still other jobs to do in the factory so maybe a full days work for the troops. Have a great weekend, if you are not snowed in! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

140 Schools Closed but we are Still Open - 5th February 2009

Well the snow seems to have arrived away from the coast but all our roads are black. Their is more snow forecast but we will have to wait & see. No fish to speak of in Fraserburgh Market today and some fish in Peterhead Market. The roads out and about seem to be pretty bad with 1 lady taking over 80 minutes to complete a journey that should have only taken her 15 minutes due to the volume of snow this morning. The shop has been pretty quiet so far today. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Only 1 Box in Fraserburgh - 4th February 2009

Well, as they say in these parts, "That's not much!". Looks like it could be an early finish for the factory today. The weekly van run is off already with what seems to be better orders. Some new stores receiving goods today so that means more people in a position to enjoy fish from Downies. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It Never Arrived - 3rd February 2009

The snow that is! Having said that, their is no fish either in Fraserburgh Market today with only 1700 boxes in Peterhead Market. Still have fish in the chill for the factory as well as some breading to do. Have decided to hold back the orders that were due to head south today due to the road conditions as they are, the orders may go before the end of the week. I would rather be cautious rather than have the fish stuck in some road block. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Chill is Full so Nothing from Fraserburgh - 2nd February 2009

The snow has been falling but nothing like what they have been having in the rest of the country. Looks like we will get the bulk of the snow later today and the early hours of Tuesday. The Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday was a busy day for us but that is no suprise due to the special offers we had in place such as 3 tuns of Cullen Skink Soup for £4 and the Breaded Haddock was half price. Speak to you all later if I am not snowed in!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Never Seen So Much Fish in Fraserburgh - 30th January 2009

What an amount of fish in Fraserburgh Market today with up to 3,000 boxes in the market. Over 150 boxes for the factory & shop coming up the road today which will keep us going for the start of the week also. Looks like most of the boats have arrived before the poor weather that may hit us over the weekend. They are speaking about snow at the start of the week!! Orders are coming in thick & fast for next week and those that left yesterday should be with the customers shortly. Hope you have a great weekend. We have the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday and their are going to be some great offers available so why not come along. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty of Fish Today - 29th January 2009

What a wonderful sight to see the back of the lorry full of fish. 164 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh Market to keep the factory and shop full. Their is a wonderfull selection of fresh fish in the shop counter to keep the taste buds going. Getting ready for the Farmers Market on Saturday and Mr Downie has some great special offers up his sleeve for all of our customers. Well worth a look if you are in the area. Some order away south today for customers new and old. Expecting plenty fish in the market on Friday so keep an eye on the shop counter. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Seas Are Calm But It Is Still Cold - 28th January 2009

It looks a beautiful morning when you look out of the office window onto the calm seas of the Moray Firth. Step outside and then you realise just how cold a morning it is. 117 boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning for both the factory and shop. 1 order leaving on Thursday to go to Middlesex for an existing customer. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

More Fish Away Today - 27th January 2009

With 77 boxes coming up from Fraserburgh market today for the shop & factory, their is still plenty of fish leaving for customer orders. Not too sure about the landings for later in the week but the forecast is good. Plenty of haddock & cod roe for the orders that are going away on Wednesday but as I am sure you know, the season for roe is very short so don't be disappointed and place your order sooner rather than later. Speak to you soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Brrrrr!! A Cold Frosty Morning - 26th January 2009

Monday once again with good landings in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets. 139 boxes coming up the road from Fraserburgh as well as some fish from the "Audacious" for the shop. Some mixed bits and pieces for the shop also. Not too sure what the landings will be like later this week but most of the boats cleared Fraserburgh harbour on Friday so should see plenty towards the end of the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Busy Day Today - 23rd January 2009

Well, Friday once again and not too much fish in Fraserburgh Market today - 1 box only! Some fish from Peterhead Market but we have plenty of other work for the troops today. The breading machine is under way to help stock the cold store for our wholesale customers. Off to the football in Huntly on Saturday as Alan Downie is sponsoring the game. Should be a laugh. Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sunny But Cold - 21st January 2009

Some fish from Fraserburgh Market for the shop today and we should have all the fish dealt with up to date. Not too much else happening in Whitehills today. I have noticed that the credit crunch is starting to hit similar businesses such as ours as "FishWorks" has gone into administration today. Not good news for those in the south of England that ordered fish for home delivery. We may get some new customers from their demise. Every cloud has a silver lining. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yet Another Cold Morning Here in Whitehills - 20th January 2009

Even though the sun is shinning, the temperature is bitterly cold here in Whitehills. Some fish in the markets today with only 44 boxes for the factory & shop. Still plenty of fish in the chill with good supplies for the shop counter. The orders are starting to stack up for the end of the week with a number of customers looking for fish for tea on Friday! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Morning Once Again - 19th January 2009

Seems strange that the 2 days at the weekend seem to pass quicker as the older you get. Mind you, at least it is not my 50th Biirthday today like Carole in the shop. Many Happy Returns Carole. Some fish in Fraserburgh Market but with the chill still full of haddock, we have plenty to keep us going for the start of the week. With the high winds we had on Saturday night, that will have blown a nunber of the boats for shelter. Some orders going away on Tuesday but the number of orders has slowed down since the start of the year. Fingers crossed that will all change. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 16th January 2009

The days are flying past at the moment and it is only the 16th of January!! Some fish in the market but we still have plenty fish to keep the factory & shop going for the start of the week. We have been asked By Seafood Scotland to assist with supplying some haddock for SIRHA 2009 in Lyon,France. That order goes away today for transporting on Monday. Not too worry though as the haddock is IQF haddock for the chefs to use. Euan is possibily gliding at RAF Lossiemouth on Saturday so it looks like I will be assisting Gill in the shop just in case it gets busy. Not too much planned for the rest of the weekend as their is meant to be some very poor weather on Satruday night / Sunday morning. Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Great Night at Newmacher Guild - 15th January 2009

Even though it was a cold night in Newmacher, their was a good turnout at Newmacher Guild last night. They all enjoyed the Smoked Haddock & Brocolli Crumble. They all saw how easy it was to make. Some fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning with 107 boxes coming up the road. Haddock, halibut and cod with some other bits and pieces for the shop. 1 oredr away today to one of our existing customers so they will be having great fish for tea on Friday!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some But Not Too Much - 13th January 2009

What a difference a day makes. 2 markets full yesterday in Fraserburgh but less than 200 boxes today. Never mind, the chill is full to the door so no worries there. The orders that were dispatched yesterday are out for delivery so some folk will be having fish for tea tonight. Off to Newmacher on Wednesday night for the first demonstration of 2009. Not sure what fish dish I will do but they will have a great night I am sure. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Coming out of our Ears - 12th January 2009

Their is so much haddock about the markets at the moment that we do not know which way to turn. Just under 200 boxes on Saturday with a further 120 boxes today. That will keep the factory going but with poor weather later in the week, it looks like that this fish may have to keep us going until the end of the week. Word is that the "Audacious" could be in at the end of the week also but we are awaiting confirmation. Orders going away this week. Speak to you later, Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Her we Are Once Again - 6th January 2009

A new year and hopefully a year full of fish for you to enjoy. Getting back into the swing of things again after 2 weeks holidays. Good to see some good landings of fish in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets. Getting fish from the "Audacious" as well to keep the factory & shop going. Has been a good bit colder here today but the forecast says that their should be no wind which will allow the fishermen to work without any hassle. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Have a Very Merry Christmas from all at Downies - 22nd December 2008

Well here we are on the last day in the office before we close and head for our Christmas sherry!! The shop has been busy, busier that I expected and their are a number of orders to be collected before we close at lunchtime today. On behalf of everybody here in Whitehills, we hope that all of our customers have a peacefull Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Here but Only Just - 18th December 2008

Sorry folks for being so long in talking to you but things here in Whitehills have been manic to say the least. Fish coming out of our ears and so little time to process them all. The last dispatches for the internet have left Whitehills this morning so I am affraid that you are too late for Christmas orders unless you can call into the shop here in Whitehills. The shop closes on Tuesday the 23rd at lunchtime then it is off to the local pub for a half pint lager shandy. Well, maybe more than one!! On behalf of all of us here at Downies, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The shop re-opens on the 5th of January 2009 at 9.00am with a limited supply of fish. See you all then. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Frost Got a Quick Shift - 12th December 2008

What a difference a couple of hours can make. When I went to bed last night their was an exceptionally hard frost but when I opened the curtains at 7.00am, the frost was gone and the windscreens were clear. Plenty of fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning so should have plenty to keep the troops going for today. Read last night that whilst the cod quota has been increased by 30%, the haddock quota may be reduced by 15%. Why oh why, when their is plenty of haddock in the sea, do they persist in hammering the Scottish fishing industry despite the fact that the catchers have imposed restriction on themselves. What about the action they take to close areas when their is juvinile fish in that are? What about the new slective trawls that are being trialed in the North Sea that allow are aimed at cutting cod catches whilst retaining haddock and other higher swimming whitefish? That is the end of the parliamentary broadcast!! Hope you all have a great weekend. I will be delivering Christmas Cards with the Cubs this Saturday and the forecast does not look that good with heavy rain forecast. Speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold & Frosty Morning - 11th December 2008

Just like the carol says, it is a cold & frosty morning here in Whitehills with some black ice on the side roads. Plenty of accidents reported so watch your feet! 85 boxes coming up the road from Fraserburgh market that should keep the factory going for today. Orders still flying out the door but keep an eye on the last dispatch date of the 18th of December and do not leave it too late. Will have plenty of our Hot Smoked Salmon for Christmas as well as Smoked haddock for the breakfasts or even a juicy kipper. Remember to open the kitchen window in case the rest of the family do not want to enjoy the aroma! Just read that the BBC are about to start filming "Trawlermen 4" and they have not been in contact with me yet! Obviously have not heard about my escapades in the local press & Fishing News about all my cooking demo's. Their loss!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Fish is Coming in - 10th December 2008

Plenty of articles in the local paper yesterday, ("Banffshire Journal" for those that want to see & read) about the late night Christmas Shopping night last week as well as a bit about the funds that Downies has raised for the local lifeboat guild. The company has raised over £1200.00 through the cooking demo's to the SWRI's and ladies groups. Not too bad at all. Fish from Fraserburgh this morning along with some bit's and pieces from the "Audacious" that will keep the shop going. The wind was blowing quite strong last night with no sign of any letup over the coming days. Will have to see what this does for fish landings. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold & Breezy Morning - 9th December 2008

Some fish in the market this morning with fish from Fraserburgh & Peterhead Markets for the factory. Orders going away South today with more required for later in the week as well as next week. Heard this morning that the "Audacious" is being towed in with some fish as the screw (propellor) has been snagged. Not sure if the boat will head out again after it is repaired. May get some fish for both the shop & Factory. Sleet has started to fall here and with more wind due later in the week, not sure what the weather is going to do. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to the Grindstone - 8th December 2008

Monday once again after a weekend spent in Glasgow. The wife, kids & me all went to the Coldplay concert at the SECC on Saturday night. Sang my heart out - just like 1 big karaoke night!! 46 Boxes of fish up the road for the factory & shop today and hopefull of more fish through the week. Not too sure how much fish will be landed this week as some of the boats will be timing their landings for the last markets before Christmas. Plenty of orders away today with more throughout the week. Remember that the last day for dispatch is the 18th of December for delivery on the 19th of December. If you have any special requests, please contact the office to discuss your requirements. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Galore! - 5th December 2008

Not whisky galore but haddock galore with 159 boxes up the road for the factory & shop. The wind is blowing quite a bit today but the forecast is for sun on Saturday. Not that will worry me as me and the family are off to Glasgow to see Coldplay in concert. It's the wife's birthday on Sunday so better keep in her good books!! A lot of orders booked in for dispatch on Monday with a number of new customers looking to try our home delivery service. Hope you all have a great weekend. Speak to you on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager. (By the way, well done to all of those who noticed my deliberate mistake earlier in the week! Ha Ha!)

Brrrrrr It Is Cold In Whitehills - 3rd December 2008

What a sharp frost here in Whitehills this morning with the side roads covered in black ice. The forecast for Wednesday night / Thursday morning is a lot of snow. Thankfully we have got some fish from Fraserburgh market this morning to keep the chill topped up and keep the troops busy. So busy in fact that they started at 6am this morning!! Some orders away again today so some of you are thinking about the last order date of the 18th of December for delivery on the 19th of December. The factory will be closed until the 5th of January 2009 so their will be no orders dispatched over the holidays. May speak to you on Thursday so long as I can dig my way out of the house with all this snow that is forecast. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Wintery Once Again - 2nd December 2008

Opened the curtains this morning to find the ground with a fair covering of snow. So bad that more than 80 schools in Aberdeenshire have been effected by the weather. Not Banff Academy so the wife has to go to school today as do the kids. The school is closed to bus pupils but as my 2 get a lift, they are off to school with not to happy faces!! Some fish from Fraserburgh today along with fish from the "Audacious" that arrived early this morning to keep the factory & shop stocked. Not too sure what will be in the markets later in the week but orders ready for sending this morning. Remember, do not leave it too late for order as the last day for dispatch will be Thursday the 18th of December so long as we have supplies. Speak to you later if I get out of the office later with all of this snow. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Windy and Monday!- 1st December 2008

Monday once again and a storm has blown a lot of boats into the markets this morning. We have 123 boxes of haddock coming up the road for the factory from Fraserburgh Market as well as 60 boxes from Whitby market. Some orders going away on Tuesday for delivery on Wednesday. Do not leave it too late before making your orders. If you have any special requests, just give me a call. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Frosty Morning - 28th November 2008

The windscreens this morning neede to be scraped before the cars could move. 300 boxes of fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning but only 16 boxes for the factory/shop. Looks like it is goig to be a quiet day in the factory. Getting ready for Macduff Farmers Market on Saturday so hopeful of a busy day. Also got a call to play golf on Sunday so another early start on Sunday. Hope you have a great weekend and speak to you all at the start of next week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish Today - 26th November 2008

17 Boxes from Fraserburgh Market this morning but not a lot from a total landing of 350 boxes. Prices were very high, just as expected. Not too sure about later in the week as a number of boats are still tied up in Fraserburgh. Hard to think that it could be weather related as it is a nice but cool day here in Whitehills. Some orders going away today with more scheduled for later in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Nothing Really Happening Here - 25th November 2008

Nothing too much exiting here in Whitehills with only 73 boxes in total landed in Fraserburgh markets this morning. Goes without saying that nothing for the factory today. Still have good stocks for the shop but may be limited towards the end of the week - fingers crossed for fish later. Some orders for next week as well as people starting to think about Christmas presents of Downies Fish Boxes as an alternative to the socks and pefumes that are normally sent. The last date for order for pre Christmas delivery will be the 18th of December for a 19th of December delivery so start to put on your thinking caps for your orders. Any questions, just give me a call. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Snow is Gone but The Wind is Back - 24th November 2008

Woke up on Sunday morning to find 6 inches of snow had fallen overnight. That meant no golf on Sunday thankfully!! No fish landed for us today but still have some fish in the chill to keep us going today. Not looking like will we get any substantial amount of fish as the wind is starting to pick up already and may well be here for the rest of the week. No cooking demo's this week as the Gardenstown evening has been postponed as their is a bus run on Thursday that is taking a lot of ladies out of the village. Have to arrange another date in 2009. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Wow That Was Wild Night!! - 21st November 2008

I am talking about the wind last night - nothing else!! The North wind was certainly blowing well here in Whitehills last night. I pity any poor soul out on the seas last night. Fish from the "Audacious" arrived this morning along with 38 boxes from Fraserburgh market. Heard that their is plenty snow up towards Huntly direction but the roads are black here in Whitehills. The forecasters say that we will be getting snow later today and into Saturday. Have been asked to play golf on Sunday morning but we will have to wait and see what the weather is like. Speak to you at the start of the week. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Great Night in Garmouth - 20th November 2008

Dispite the cold wind last night their was more than 35 ladies at the cooking demonstration who all seemed to enjoy themselves as well as tasting the Smoked haddock & Brocolli Crumble even though I forgot my small cooker!! Only 48 boxes up the road from Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets which should keep the troops going with what was left in the chill last night. The "Audacious" is landing through the night with some of the haddock coming to the factory at some point on Friday. That should give us a start on Monday morning. All depends how deep the snow is going to be as to whether we get more fish on Saturday or Monday. Having a quiet night by the fireside tonight. Speak to you late. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Wind is Starting to Pick Up - 19th November 2008

Just as the forecast predicted, the wind is slowly picking up for a full gale towards the end of the week with northerly gales force 8 to 9. Fish from both Peterhead & Fraserburgh markets today with about 120 boxes coming up the road. Possible that the "Audacious" could be landing on Friday but awaiting confirmation. Snow predicted for the end of the week but should get to Garmouth tonight. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Chill is Full to the Door - 18th November 2008

With the wind starting to blow before the storm at the end of the week, the chill is full to the door with some fish in both Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets. Nothing coming up the road today but still plenty of fish to keep the factory going as well as orders being dispatched. The orders for the delivery run are keeping constant with more soup going each run. Not too sure what I am going to cook at Garmouth on Wednesday night but hopefully the ladies will enjoy whatever I prepare. Batten down the hatches and speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Morning Once Again - 17th November 2008

Well that was the weekend past once again. Spent the weekend in Aberdeen with old school mates going over "the good old days". Golf on Saturday was okay but I was second which was not too bad after the start I had!! 99 Boxes coming up the road from Fraserburgh market and looking at the forecast for the tail end of the week as well as speaking to a local skipper, not too sure if there will be a lot of fish towards the end of the week. Even speaking about snow at sea level! I know that it is cold here in Whitehills this morning with a good frost covering the car windscreens but I am not sure if I am looking for snow just yet. Too much snow might mean that I would be unable to get to Garmouth on Wednesday for the cooking demo there. Hopefully that should not be a problem. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish Once Again - 14th November 2008

With 133 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh Market today that will keep everybody busy in the factory today with the possibility of more fish in Fraserburgh on Saturday. Not at bad day here in Whitehills with better forecast for Saturday. Off to Aberdeen tonight to meet up with some old school friends. Might just manage a few beers to catch up on old times. Golf on Saturday whilst the ladies do some retail therapy - not my scene!! Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Night! - 12th November 2008

The rain and wind certainly blew last night with wild rain and hail at times. Not too much fish on the go today but the chill has plenty fish to keep us going for today and Thursday. The shop has a variety of fish but with the weather as it is, their may be a bit more in the markets at the end of the week. Had a call from Garmouth & Kingston WRI yesterday to be advised that about 40 ladies will be at the demo next Wednesday. They will have the chance to buy fish after the demo which is becoming a popular part of the cooking demonstrations now. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from the Audacious - 11th November 2008

A damp morning here in Whitehills but the sky is trying to clear. Looks like it could be another cold day. Not much fish in Fraserburgh market but the chill is full from yesterday's fish. Some haddock from the "Audacious" but not a vast ammount. I think that they must have been targetting other fish apart from haddock. Some disturbing news on TV last night with calls to drastically cut the West Coast quotas for haddock and other species of fish. That could scupper the inshore boats but hopefully not effect the deep water vessels. Just have to wait and see what happens at the Quota Talks in December. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty to Keep Us Going - 10th November 2008

The market was full in Fraserburgh with 186 boxes up the road for the factory which will keep us going un til Wednesday along with what was bought on Saturday. No demo's this week but 2 next week. A quiet weekend which is not a bad thing. A bitterly cold wind here today with more strong winds due over the coming days. The "Audacious" is due in as the wind over the West coast have been horrendous! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Happy Days Are Here Again - 7th November 2008

Fish till it is coming out of our ears!! Fish from Peterhead and Fraserburgh markets today that will keep us going for the day as well as a start on Monday morning. Hopefull of more fish in Fraserburgh market on Saturday. A quiet weekend ahead for me with no cooking demo's next week but 2 the following week - 1 in Garmouth ans 1 in Turriff. Will have the Rememberance Parade with the Cubs on Sunday at the local church. Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Now the Mist Has Cleared - 4th November 2008

Great to see the end of the harbour now that that the early mist has cleared. It was the forecast so fingers crossed for a better day. 50 boxes from Peterhead markets for the factory which with the rest of the other jobs to do, should keep the bulk of the staff here for the day. Still not too much fish in the markets just yet. Started watching "Matt & Mitch" on UKTV Food last night cooking fresh mackerel on the BBQ. Must have been filmed early in the year because the sun was shinning!! Looks like it could be an okay programme but will have to wait and see. Good news for the pelagic fishermen yesterday with the news that their quota is to be increased next year which is excellent news. Hopefully this will be an indication of what may happen at the quota talks in December. Some order going away today with more planned for later in the week. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold but Bright - 3rd November 2008

Another cold morning but at least we have some fish from Fraserburgh market this morning. Just about enough to keep the factory going most of the day but not too sure for later in the week yet. We will have to wait and see how the boats have been getting on since the storms of last week. Had a very successful night at Duff House on Saturday with the Seafood Bar. Banff Round Table once again put on an excellent show of fireworks. Not that we had much chance to see them as we were so busy!! That will be the Seafood Bar away for the rest of the year into storage. Not been a bad year for us at numerous events. Looking forward to the next year but we will have to look at our calender very carefully to make sure we make the best of the shows available. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Northerly Wind Has Returned - 31st October 2008

What a difference a day can make with the wind back from the north east. Still no fish in Fraserburgh to speak of with just over 1000 boxes in Peterhead market. Thankfully, we are getting some haddock from the "Audacious" this morning that will keep the fish shop supplied until their is more fish landed in the markets - hopefully by Tuesday this should all change but you never know. Getting ready for the Round Table Fireworks display at Duff House on Saturday night which is normally a busy night but it all depends on the weather. The forecast is quite good but that can all change. Hope you all have a great Halloween tonight and by the looks of some of the staff this morning, they already have their masks on!! Only joking Mr Downie!! Have a great weekend. Speak to you all on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Wind has Calmed Right Down - 30th October 2008

Once again their is very little fish in the markets again today. Looking forward to the "Audacious" landing later tonight with some fish for the shop & hopefully the factory. Unsure as to how much we are getting. Fingers crossed!! Plenty of pies & bradies being prepared whilst the factory is quiet and Haddock Goujons also being done. Speak to you later with news of more fish for the shop. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Seems Like Winter has Arrived - 28th October 2008

Just as the forecaster said at the weekend, looks like winter has arrived with a bitterly cold north wind giving us some snow & sleet showers last night. As predicted, no fish in Fraserburgh this morning with less that 800 boxes in Peterhead market. Looks like it will be more bradies & pies being made today to supplement the winter stock. The Fish Cakes were packed up yesterday so hopefully that will ensure that we have plenty for the forthcoming months. Never know though as the quality is excellent!! Speak to you later if we are not snowed in!! Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The North Wind is Starting to Blow - 27th October 2008

The forecast is not good with a strong north wind blowing in snow later in the week even on lower ground. Some of the boats have stayed put waiting to see what the weather is going to do. Hardly any fish in Peterhead or Fraserburgh but we have some fish in the cvhill to cover the shop. Will have to get some good haddock for the orders that go out on Wednesday. Off to Kingswells SWRI on Tuesday so hopefully the snow will not be here on Tuesday!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

NORTH SEA COD QUOTA - 24th October 2008

JUST A QUICK NOTE TO ADVISE ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS THAT WHILST FRESH COD REMAINS IN THE FRESH FISH SECTION, WE HAVE BEEN ADVISED THAT THE QUOTA FOR NORTH SEA COD IS ALMOST EXHAUSTED. UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE QUOTA IS STOPPED, WE WILL TRY OUR BEST TO CONTINUE TO SUPPLY FESH COD. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Sky is Blue and the Seas are Calm - 24th October 2008

What a difference a day will make because the forecast for the weekend in not good - not good at all!! Some fish in the markets today with 40 boxes from Fraserburgh and a couple from Whitby for the shop. Plenty of jobs for the troops here today as we are making more of our Fish Cakes which have been flying off the shelves. Must be the quality once again. It has been difficult to keep up with demand but with this break in the weather, this has allowed us to put some aside for stock. Pies also being made today for winter stock. Getting ready for the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday so hopefull of a good day. Hope that you all have a great weekend and speak to you at the start of the week. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Wind Starting To Rise - 23rd October 2008

Just as the forecasters said, the wind is starting to gather pace as daylight comes in but it is far from being as cold as it was ysterday. Supprising amount of fish in the markets today but I am not expecting too much as I think that the prices will be far too high. Have some fish from Whitby to cover the shop & farmers market on Saturday so I only hope that weather eases back a bit. Only a few days until Alan Downie is back from his holidays and be back behind the helm. Amazing how quick two weeks pass when you are on holiday!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold Morning in Whitehills - 22nd October 2008

Looks like their could be snow on higher ground due to the cold wind. The weather has kept most of the boats in harbour due to poor weather due again on Thursday. No point in wasting "days at sea" and fuel just to dodge about not catching fish. Still got some fish in the chill to cover the shop & factory but we will have to wait & see about the start of next week. Farmers market this weekend in Macduff so fingers crossed that we have some fish for then. Advised that Kinswells SWRI are expecting 50 ladies for Tuesday nights demo in Aberdeen and asked to take along fish & soup for them to buy. You can not hide quality from Downies of Whitehills!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, actory Manager.

Just As I Thought - 21st October 2008

With the majority of the boats landing on Monday, their is very little fish in the markets today. The fish from the "Audacious" is safely in the chill which will be used for both the factory & shop. The orders are in for the Wednesday delivery run and I will start to make the calls for the Thursday run later in the day. 1 internet order which will be dispatched on Wednesday for Thursday delivery so I know 1 family that will be having fish for tea at the end of the week!! The weather seems to have settled down overnight but speaking to 1 of Whitehills local skippers yesterday to be advised that Thursday is meant to be a poor day as far as weather is concerned but we will have to wait and see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Wind has Blown the Boats In - 20th October 2008

As predicted, the wind through the night has resulted in a large amount of fish landed in Peterhead, Fraserburgh & Whitby. The chill has plenty fish in so only 38 boxes up the road for the shop mostly. Fish from the "Audacious" should be here for 6am on Tuesday and that will keep the factory going for Tuesday & Wednesday along with what is already in the chill. The "Original BART" car has returned safely back to Banff from Goodwood, sadly with no trophies but the lads had a great weekend. They upset a number of teams as 1 of the pit crew, "Pies" to his friends, had taken his bagpipes with him and kept them "entertained" on Sunday. Some people did not apprecaite the sounds of the pipes in their ears!! No accounting for taste. No cooking demo's this week so early nights. Alan Downie is already 1 week into his hilodays so he should be back to the helm on Tuesday of next week. Had the web-designer here today so we have discussed a number of possible changes to the home-page as wel as some of the items in the shopping cart area. Keep an eye out for them. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Plenty of Fish About - 17th October 2008

Their is a lot of fish in the markets today but with some poor weather forecast for later this weekend, it seems like a number of the bigger boats have dived for cover. Fish from Peterhead should arrive today along with more from Whitby. Plenty of choice in the shop. As was mentioned earlier this week, Downies of Whitehills have sponsored "The Original BART" racing car as part of the Formula 24 For Schools event at Goodwood this weekend so it will be Jill in the shop on Saturday helped by yours truly if required. Fingers crossed for the Banff Acadmey team. You can read about them if you enter "Formula 24 for Schools" into your search engine. Speak to you at that start of the week. Have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Great Night Had by All - 16th October 2008

My first visit to Cairnie last night seemed to go down well with a crowd of about 35 ladies. The samples of Hot Smoked Salmon as well as the Smoked haddock & Brocolli Crumble went down well followed by a wonderful cuo of tea and fancy pieces. These domo's do have their good side!! Some fish in the markets with a lot of the inshore boats have dived for ports due to the North/North west wind coming in. Fish from Peterhead, Fraserburgh and Whitby which will keep us going for the rest of the week. Just to start thinking about the start of next week already. No demo's next week so I have a bit of a rest. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Calm Seas & Red Skies - 15th October 2008

Hope that this is not the calm before the storm because looking at the forecast, their is some wind due towards the end of the week. Some fish in the markets today with some from Peterhead to keep the factory & shop going. Also haddock from Whitby should be here on Thursday just to top up the chill. Off to Cairnie SWRI tonight so hopefully this should be a good evening for all concerned. A couple of internet orders away today so things on that side seem to be picking up. Have the web designer here on Monday just to look over the site. This will allow us to make any changes before the Christmas rush. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold but Bright - 14th October 2008

The sky is clear but their is a definite chill in the air this morning. Some fish in both markets but looks more likely to get fish from Fraserburgh market this morning. Should be enough fish to keep the factory going but their are a number of other jobs to do such as breading. Euan, the Saturday shop boy, is off to Goodwood this weekend with Banff Academy as part of their "Green Car" team to race against a number of other schools with their electric cars. Fingers crossed for the whole team as "Downies of Whitehills" are 1 of the sponsors. A bit different from the Formula 1 sponsors and all of their glitz and glamour. Getting ready for the cooking demo at Cairnie on Wednesday night. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 13th October 2008

How quick the weekends pass! Won't be long until Christmas at this rate!! Mind you, that will not be bothering Alan Downie as he suns himself on the golf courses in Thailand for the next 14 days. Some fish in the markets this morning with 60 boxes up the road for the factory & shop. Off up the Huntly direction on Wednesday night for yet another cooking demo. I bet Gordon Ramsay is never this busy or sees so much of Scotland. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What A Day - 10th October 2008

What a difference 12 hours can make to the weather. Been raining most of the night but according to the forecast, it should become brighter later in the day. Hard to beleive that when you look out the office window! 32 Boxes in total coming from Fraserburgh & Peterhead markets which will keep the shop going but I do not think that the filleting machine will be on. Fingers crossed for fish on Saturday morning. Not that Alan Downie will be too bothered about that as he is off for 2 weeks golfing in Thailand. Do not worry though, their will be plenty of fish for the shop & factory as we will have buyers in place to cover that. Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Turriff & Bucksburn - What a Night! - 9th October 2008

Well folks, what a couple of nights I have had!! Better reword that as I was doing a couple of cooking demo's on Tuesday and Wednesday night. Tuesday was Simm Garden's in Turriff which was a great success. I was able to promote the local Costcutter Store for supplying our range of fresh & smoked fish on a regular basis. Last night I was off on my travels to Bucksburn SWRI. What a great night was had by all but what a heat their was in the community centre. All of the ladies seemed to enjoy the Smoked Haddock & Brocolli Crumble as well as some of the hot smoked products. Both groups made excellent donations to Whitehills RNLI fund. Not too much fish in the markets today but the troops have plenty to keep them going with making pies & bradies, packing up breaded fish as well as breading more to ensure that our stocks are high. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Cold but Not Too Much Happening - 6th October 2008

The temperature has dropped quite a bit here in Whitehills but at least the wind has dropped too. Little to no fish in the markets today but plenty of work for the troops in the factory with a lot of breading to be done. Getting ready for 2 demonstrations this week, 1 in Turriff and 1 in Bucksburn just outside Aberdeen. Hope for some fish in the markets later in the week now that the boats have had the chance to get out and fish. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Windy Day Here!! - 3rd October 2008

Well look what the wind has blown in!! I have not left you, only been forgetfull in speaking to you. It's the cold you know or is it an age thing? Their has been a bit of fish through the week but the wind overnight has blown a number of the boats in. Was in Keithall last night doing a cooking demo for about 20 ladies and they all enjoyed the Smoked Haddock & Brocolli Crumble. Hopefully the orders for Mitchells Dairy will increase with all of the promotion shouts I gave them last night!! I am playing golf at Dufftown on Saturday so I hope that the wind dies down overnight. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Thought You Had Lost Me? - 26th September 2008

Just when you thought I had left the country, here I am again keeping you up to date with what has been happening in and around Whitehills. On Wednesday night I was cooking in Elgin for about 60 ladies and gents. They all enjoyed the Haddock & Banana Bake as well as the Smoked Haddock & Brocoli Crumble. Just as well now that we will be delivering fish on a weekly basis to Allarburn Dairy in Elgin from Wednesday lunchtime as well as The Keystore in Portgordon. Just shows that our little trip this week has worked in bringing more business. The weather here in Whitehills has been exceptional over the past few days for this time of year. I only hope that this does not meen that we will have a por winter. Plenty of fish for both the shop & factory this week so a lot of choice for you. Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Haddock Coming Out of Our Ears!! - 22nd September 2008

Have not seen so much fish in either Fraserburgh or Peterhead for a very long time. Over 150 boxes up the road for the factory with substantially more away for freezing for the quieter months. The sun is shinning here just like a summers day with beautiful blue skies. A change after the rain of last night. The shop has been busier today due to the Aberdeen holiday weekend and with the warm weather, this has taken folk out for a run to Whitehills to get their fish. A cooking demo in Elgin on Wednesday night for Elgin & District Diabetic group and they are expecting over 50 people to be there. Have to make sure I have plenty for them to eat. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Gordon Ramsay Look Out!! - 19th September 2008

Might have a change of career and give Gordon Ramsay a run for his money!! Was in Longside last night doing a small but friendly cooking demo. Haddock & Banana Bake went down well with all of the ladies but some were not too sure about it before they tasted it. Clean plates told its own story. 68 Boxes from Fraserburgh Market today which includes some prawns for making some of our whole tail scampi for you all to enjoy. That should keep the factory busy for the rest of the day. With no market in Fraserburgh on Saturday, looks like Chunky will have to pull out some breading jobs for Monday. Not a bad thing as we need to relenish our stocks as they have taken a bit of a hamerring lately. Must be something to do with the quality!! Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Great Viewing on TV Last Night - 18th September 2008

Last night had yet another eposide of "Trawlermen" showing some more of the insights as to how we get the fish to your plate thanks to the catchers. Some of the weather shown last night was pretty wild to say the least. The weather here today is not that great either with the rain falling steadily. Fish from Fraserburgh Market today, 67 boxes to keep the shop & factory going. No market on Saturday as a mark of respect for the family of Ross Middleton as a number of the buyers will be attending his funeral, Alan Downie and myself included. Off to Longside tonight so fingers crossed for a good evening. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sunny Day & Some Fish for the Factory - 17th September 2008

The sun is shinning for a change and some fish from Fraserburgh Market for the factory. Not too much happening here today but starting to think about the cooking demo in Longside on Thursday night. Might be Haddock & Banana Bake for the ladies to try. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Wet Day in Whitehills - 16th September 2008

Hi there from a rather wet Whitehills. I hope that the rain remebers to stop at some point this week!! Some fish for the factory from Fraserburgh Market but nothing to get excited about. Still have fish from Peterhead to cut so that will allow us to clear our feet. Nothing else really happening here so I will speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Sad Day at Fraserburgh Market - 15th September 2008

Saturday at Fraserburgh Market was a very sad day indeed when 1 of the Fish Salesmen was killed in a tragic accident. All of our thoughts from Downies in Whitehills are with the family of Ross Middleton. Things tried to get back to normal today but with very little fish landed, we had 76 boxes from Peterhead Market to keep the factory going. Plenty of other jobs to do as we are looking to put stock aside for our Breaded Haddock as our stocks are looking low. Cooking demo at Longside this Thursday so starting to think what to do for then. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Successfull Night at Tipperty - 12th September 2008

I had the ladies of Tipperty SWRI eating out of my hand last night. Well, off plates to be exact. The Smoked Haddock & Broccoli Crumble went down very well. Hopefully the order from "The Store" next week will reflect last night's demo. 67 boxes from Peterhead Market with about 37 from Fraserburgh Market today with what was left from yesterday, will keep the factory going today and the start of next week. Plenty of choice in the shop for the weekend but yours truly is covering the shop as Euan is away to the Leuchars Airshow on Saturday. No rest for the wicked!! A bit overcast here today but no rain yet. Have a great weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Result!! - 11th September 2008

At last the Scotland football team got the result we were all looking for last night. Not to mention that Chaz Bruce got the prawns he was looking for in "Trawlermen" on BBC1 last night. Thankfully I was not on the "Genisis" in that storm that was shown on TV but 1 of the young crew is from Whitehills. Fame at last!! Good landing of fish in Fraserburgh Market this morning with more than 900 boxes of fish landed with more to come. Last I heard, Mr Downie has 100 plus boxes to keep the factory going today and on Friday. A new girl has started in the shop today to help out in the afternoons so look out for Lynne in the shop next time you call in by. Off to Tipperty SWRI tonight for another cooking demo so i will let you know on Friday how that went. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Difference a Day Makes - 10th September 2009

Well it seems that summer has passed us by as the weather has taken a change for the cold. Some fish from Fraserburgh today but looks like the factory could be finished early this afternoon. Some work on prawns to ensure that we have plenty scampi in stock as this has been one of our most popular lines this year. You can not hide quality!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fraserburgh Nil, Peterhead 57 - 9th September 2008

That is the amount of boxes to the factory from the fish markets, not the most recent football score!! Plenty to keep the factory going as well as lemon sole and halibut for the shop. The herring is now finished for the season but tasty kippers and kippers fillets are perfect for the last BBQ of the year. Off to Tipperty SWRI on Thursday night for another demo and do not forget that "Trawlermen" is on BBC1 on Wednesday night. A chance to keep up with the antics of Jimmy Buchan and crew. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It all Started on Friday - 8th September 2008

Well it is that time of the year again. I take it you all know what I am on about? Yes it is "Seafood Fortnight" so I hope to see a flood of orders this week and next. Had a lot of orders as a result of my ccoking demo at Duff House Royal Golf Club on Thursday night. Plenty of enquiries from the people that were there. Alan Downie was in the company of a TV star on Friday afternoon. Golfing alongside Jimmy Buchan of "Trawlermen" fame at Peterhead. Mr Downie seemed to loose a lot of golf balls so he will have to pay a visit to the pro shop before he plays golf again!! Some fish on Saturday as well as some today. A beautiful sunny day here in Whitehills as we seemed to have missed the rain once again. Plenty to choose from on the website as well as if you have the chance to call into the shop. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Sunny day on the Moray Firth Coast - 4th September 2008

What a beautiful day once again with the sun shining. About 90 boxes from Fraserburgh Markets this morning to keep both the factory & shop full of fish. Watched "Trawlermen" last night and once again, you would never get me on some of these boats in the weather they go out in. Getting ready for another cooking demo tonight so I will report back on how that goes on Friday. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Successfull Cooking Demo - 3rd September 2008

A good crowd gathered at Newburgh SWRI in the village hall lasy night with one of the highest turnouts they have had in recent years. Just shows how word gets about!! 41 boxes from fraserburgh Markets today to keep the factory going as well as a start to Friday. Remeber that "Trawlermen" is on BBC1 tonight. Aniother demo at Duff House Royal Golf Club on Thursday night as part of "The Golf Week" enertainment. Hopefully their will be a good turnout and that Kenny, the Steward, stops drooling over the dishes that I am planning to cook. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What has Happened to the Rain? - 2nd September 2008

According to the forecast that I saw on Sunday, we were meant to get rain for the early part of the week. The sky is blue, the sun is shinning and it is very warm for September here in Whitehills. At least the forecasters got it wrong for a change in our favour! 43 boxes from Fraserburgh with fish coming from Peterhead as well. That should keep the factory busy today and a start on Wednesday morning. Going to Newburgh tonight to do a demonstration to the WRI with another demo on Thursday night at Duff House Royal Golf Club Golf Week. Back by popular demand having done a demo at the Ladies 5 Day in 2006. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Vintage Car Rally @ Duff House in Banff - 29th August 2008

Well, it is Friday once again and their are 82 boxes from Fraserburgh Market today. Not too much in Peterhead but a lot of fish is expected on Monday morning. Getting ready for the Seafood Bar being out again this weekend. Off to Banff Rotary Vintage Car Rally at Duff House in Banff on Sunday morning. I understand that thier are more than 140 entrants this year which is the highest they have had. The day starts off with a tour of Banffshire in a convoy of vintage vehicles. Mrs Downie's Austin Ruby is amongst the entrants this year so if you are visiting, look out for the Seafood Bar as well as a dark blue Austin Ruby. Hope that the weather holds out as the Farmers Market is in Macduff on Saturday so if you are in the area, call in by & see what we have to offer. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish - 28th August 2008

Good day to you all. I hope that you watched "Trawlermen" on TV last night. It goes to show what the crews have to go through to ensure that we get fish for your table. The young skipper from the "New Dawn" was trying to be a dab hand in the galley and he was the lad that jumped overboard to try and help 1 of his crew that fell overboard. Unfortunately he was unable to save his crew mate. The price they have to pay for the most dangerous job in the UK. 10 Boxes from Fraserburgh this morning but we have plenty fish for both the shop & factory. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back at Last!! - 25th August 2008

The bad penny has turned up again now that we have our computer system working again after it went "bang" last week. Have been busy last weekend at the Wizard Festival in New Deer which was great both as an event for the Seafood Bar but also as entertainment for us staff. It was late nights but well worth it so hopefully we will be back next year to Wizard 2009. Had our annual SCA Packaging golf day out yesterday at Edzell Golf Club. Had a great day and Billy Gatt, Skipper of the "Audacious" was in our company and he returned as Champion and winner of the longest drive. Weather and the course were excellent. Some fish from Fraserburgh today but nothing from Peterhead. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Changing Again!! - 14th August 2008

That is the weather by the way!! It is alomost like an autumn day here with the sky overcast and not really that warm. 38 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh market today including some Lemon Sole, Halibut, Rock Turbot and plaice as well as haddock for both the factory and the shop. Hope to have more fish on Friday but we wil have to wait and see. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Haddock Due any Time Now - 13th August 2008

Waiting here for the arrival of haddock from the "Audacious" which was landing in the early hours of this morning. Not too much happening in the market with some fish in the chill to keep the factory ticking along until the arrival of the haddock. The shop has been really busy these last few days as the last of the holiday-makers head home. Fingers crossed that they may order on-line in due course. Beautiful blue skies here today but the forecast for the weekend is not too great which is a pity as we have the Seafood Bar at a pony club meet at Knock Farm on Saturday. Then it is the Wizard Festival on the 22nd & 23rd of August. This will be our first time at a music festival. Who knows, maybee next year it could be Glastonbury or T-in-the-Park!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Some Fish in the Market - 12th August 2008

Just as the title says, their is some fish in the market but as yet no inducation of how much is coming up the road. A rather misty day here in Whitehills but hopefully that will clear as the day goes on. The shop was really busy yesterday as the last of the motorhome enthusiasts headed home after their rally at the weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Friday Once Again - 8th August 2008

How time flies when you are enjoying yourself!! Hard to believe that it is Friday already. 84 Boxes from Fraserburgh market today for both the shop & factory. Should keep them going for part of the day. Weekend off this weekend but a Pony Club meeting next Saturday with the Wizard Festival the following weekend. This will be the first time that our Seafood Bar has been to such an event so I will have to decide who is going to work & who is going to watch/listen to the bands. Weather here at the moment is blue skies with a slight breeze which is great as Whitehills have a regatta on Saturday afternoon followed by a BBQ in the evening. I may have to attend to make sure that Alan Downie is cooking everything well on the BBQ and that not too much drink is consumed. Hope that you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

No Fish for the Factory Today - 7th August 2008

The machines are all quiet today as their was very little fish on the market today. We had the troops peeling prawns for scampi as we are struggling to keep pace with demand due to the excellent quality. Some changes to the History pages on our website today but still a very long way to go. Keep an eye out for more changes as time goes by. Hopefully have fish for the factory on Friday but still great variety in the shop. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to Normality - 6th August 2008

Well that is Turriff Show for another year. The weather was good on the Sunday with some heavy showers through the night on Monday morning. The Seafood Bar was exceptionaly busy on both days. The shop inside the Food Fayre has been busier in previous years but it was the same for a number of the other producers. Some fish available today with 7 boxes only coming up from Fraserburgh Market. The troops are busy preparing prawns for scampi as we are selling more than we ever have due to the excellent quality & taste. Why not try some next time you are ordering on-line? What are your thoughts on some of the changes made to the website? I know it was not much but every little helps. Alan Stewart Factory Manager.

Holidays Over and back to the Coal Face - 1st August 2008

It must have been the quickest 3 weeks of the year but back to work with a bang. Had a great time in Orlando meeting Mickey & Co and doing most of the white knuckle rides in all of the parks. Did the retail bit just to keep the wife quiet and even managed a game of golf in very hot temperatures. Back into the swing of things today getting ready for Turriff Show on Sunday & Monday. We have a stand in the Food Fayre as well as our Seafood Bar in place to feed the masses of hungry farmers & other visitors. Some fish up the road for the factort today with 117 boxes from Fraserburgh market today with the possibility of more fish on Saturday. Have a great weekend and speak to you all on Tuesday as I will be in Turriff on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

26/7/08 good shop display

Hi All the factory has been a bit quiet the last couple of days as there has not been much fish landed so it has gave us some time to work on shop and internet products and do a little product development the weather this week has been to hot for me anyway.speak to you all next week colin blog-hyjacker

21/07/08 quality lemon sole

Hi All Not much fish for the factory but the boss has made sure thier is plenty quality fresh fish for the internet and shop orders such as day old large lemons,cats,cod,and haddock.

Shorts & T-Shirt weather Again 18/7/08

Well it's cooking again outside today and I think the shorts & T-shirt will be out again. some very nice quality fish from the market today to meet shop and the ever growing internet orders. Well thats about it for today cant believe it's just about halfway throught alan's holidays never mind another 12 days he will be back at the helm.

Hot and sunny whitehills 17/7/08

Sorry I have not did the blog this week but we have been very busy with fresh fish and internet orders with alan being away but look at the bright side I wont speak about golf for the next couple weeks ;). As the title says it has been extremley hot here this week with record tempatures fell sorry for all the people thats spend lots of money to go to hotter climates when we have such good weather at home. Thanks the blog hi-jacker.

It's Monday & Only 1 Day to Go!! - 7th July 2008

Better day today with the sun trying to break through. Fish from Saturday & today totalling 47 boxes which should be all cut by 5pm tonight. The Ladies 5 Day Open at Duff House Royal Golf Club started today which Downies sponsor. A variety of fish dishes available throughout the week in the clubhouse but it is Friday that the shop is out the door with orders for all of the ladies heading home again. Have to make sure that we have plenty of fish ready for then. Not that it will worry me too much as I will spending the day with Mickey & Co!! Remember to look out for the "Blog Hijacker" after Tuesday as I am sure he will keep you up to date with what is going on. Speak to you later, yes 3 weeks later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Day for the Haddock!! - 3rd July 2008

Plenty of haddock again in the markets with 56 boxes up the road from Fraserburgh. With what we got yesterday, that should be enough for today and a start on Friday morning. Fresh herring available in the shop and we are to try Herring in Pure Scottish Oatmeal as a change for customers. Not sure abot putting that onto the internet shop as the packaging may crush the oatmeal too much into the herring. Was golfing last night - what a stupid game golf is!! As you can tell, I did not score that well. Hope to play better golf when I am on holiday!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Hoorah for the Haddock!! - 1st July 2008

Some better signs of the quantity of haddock now being landed at the markets with 95 boxes up the road for the factory & shop. Some good orders going away to new customers so they must be looking forward to the fish they are to receive in the next few days. Looking forward also to the changes to the website. I would appreciate your comments once the changes take place. Have got the "Blog Hijacker" on standby for when I am away on holiday to keep you up to date with what is going on in the factory and Whitehills. I will be able to keep an eye on his journal when I am in Florida for my hols which start next Tuesday. Away for 3 whole weeks!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 30th June 2008

The weekend's pass far too quickly for my liking!! A total of 78 boxes of fish from Fraserburgh today and Saturday so that should keep the factory going today at least. Not too sure if their is going to be a lot of fish later in the week but fingers crossed. Farmers Market in Macduff last Saturday but not overly busy even with the start of the Macduff to Stavanger yacht race. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager. PS: not long until I am on holiday!!

Hello from Sunny Whitehills - 26th June 2008

The sun is shinning and their is fresh herring in the shop. Had a visit from our Web Designer yesterday so watch out for some colourfull changes on the website. Hope that this will make it easier for you to get your way around the internet shop. Some fish from Fraserburgh toady with some coming from Whitby on Friday. We also have the farmers market in Macduff on Saturday to coincide with the Macduff to Stavanger Yacht race. Hope to see you there. Alan Stewart, Factory manager.

Back to Normal - 24th June 2008

After the hectic weekend, things are back to normal today with some fish from Fraserburgh market today. Still working through the fish from yesterday. Beautiful blue sky's today which is more than the weather man said last night. Fresh herring in the shop again today. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Portsoy Past for Another Year - 23rd June 2008

What a busy weekend we had at the Portsoy Boat Festival!! Beautiful warm day on Saturday with people waiting all the time for either kippers, fresh fish from the shop or their lunch at the Seafood Bar. Must have been one of the busiest days at Portsoy festival but that all changed on Sunday as the weather broke. Fish from Fraserburgh market today to keep the factory going but their might not be too much fish until later in the week. Some visiting boats in Whitehills Marina after the boat festival with Izabella Fortuna berthed and expecting visitors from a number of local schools over the next few days. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Still Rather Quiet - 18th June 2008

The title says it all!! No fish except 2 boxes of haddock from Peterhead Market but fingers crossed for fish on Thursday as we will have to start getting some fish prepared for the weekend. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Not Too Much Happening - 17th June 2008

Only 300 boxes in Fraserburgh Markets today so nothing up the road today. Plenty for the shop with fresh herring in again from Peterhead and halibut still on special offer. Hope to be able to continue with some specials on Saturday/Sunday at the boat festival. Starting to get things together for the Portsoy Boat Festival and not yet panicing!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Start of Another Busy Week - 16th June 2008

So far the sun is ahinning as we have some fish from Fraserburgh market this morning to keep the factory going. Starting to think about Portsoy Boat Festival on Saturday & Sunday so all of our fingers are crossed for dry weather. I will be doing a couple of demo's at the Food Fayre so I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And This is Meant to Be Summer!! - 13th June 2008

At long last some fish for the factory with more than 80 boxes from Fraserburgh market. That includes some fish for the shop. Fresh herring again today from Peterhead which are small but full of flavour. The rain has started early and according to the forecast, I do not think that it will be too dry up until at least Tuesday. As long as the rain remembers to stop in time for Portsoy Boat Festival next weekend. Starting to get things together as the end of the week will be manic!! Hope you all have a great weekend. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

West Coast Haddock & Fresh Herring - 11th June 2008

A bit of a change in the weather today with overcast shies. The calm before the possible storm! Some good haddock from Kinlochbervie last night for the shop with lemon sole, halibut & fresh herring available today also. Plenty of other jobs for the factory to do today but it could be an early finish for the troops. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The Saturday Shop Boy Did Good! - 10th May 2008

As I mentioned last week, Euan, the Saturday shop boy, was taking part in the Tri Service Youth Standard Bearing Competition in Perth on Friday. After a very tight competition, Euan was named as the winner and is now the Youth Standard Bearing Champion for Scotland. What some people will do for a Saturday off!! Not much fish on the go and what their is, is an absolute fortune. Fresh herring now available which has helped keep the shop going. On a seperate matter, the Bolg Hijacker (Chunky) became a father on Friday and Jamie is doing well after spending some time in hospital in Glasgow. Hope that the McBain family will be home soon. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Orders Seem to be Flooding In - 4th June 2008

Rather than the rain flooding in as forecast, the order are flooding in for dispatch on Thursday. Some more fish for the shop today from Fraserburgh market. The rain last night meant no golf so that means that I am still in the competition for at least another week. Most of the work in the factory has been completed during the holiday shutdown with deep cleaning being started this afternoon and hopefully completed on Thursday. Arrangements are underway for World Oceans Day with the seafood bar being in Macduff Aquarium on Sunday offering our normal wares. Not attending "Taste of Grampain" again this year as unable to offer our cooked fish etc to the visitors. Seems a pity as a number of people could be looking for us to offer a change to burgers etc. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What a Quick Weekend - 2nd June 2008

Well Monday morning once again and it seems that the weekends are passing quicker than ever. Had a better day at the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday with plenty of excellent offers from Downies then it was off to the Turriff Pipe Band Championships on Sunday. The weather was not too great nut the crowds were able to enjoy some tasty Haddock & Chips, scampi & chips or Cullen Skink Soup to help keep them going whilst watching the bands. A really busy day from whenever we open the counter until the massed bands finished playing at about 5.30pm. Then it is Monday once again. The factory is still closed for their second weeks holiday and still plenty of repair work underway. Some fish for the shop though. Off to Perth on Friday as Euan, the shop assistant on Saturdays, is off to the National Banner Competition representing Aberrdeen, Banff & Kincardine in the Cadet section. Fingers crossed for a successful event. That means that Steven will be looking after the shop on Saturday. The Seafood Bar is also out for National Oceans Day on Sunday at Macduff Aquarium. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Busy with Shop Fish - 29th May 2008

Not too much happening in the markets today but plenty of fresh fish for the shop today. Starting to think about the Farmers Market on Saturday in Macduff then the Pipe Band Championships in Turriff on Sunday so fingers crossed for some good weather. Golfing on Friday night so that should be good for a walk!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet in the Factory - 26th May 2008

With the majority of the staff off on holiday, the factory is very quiet to walk through. Still a couple of staff on the go to ensure that both the shop's have fish to cover your requirements. Getting ready for the Turriff Pipe Band Championships on Sunday & the Farmers Market in Macduff on Saturday so a busy weekend ahead. Fingers crossed for the weather!! Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Staff Looking Towards the Hols - 22nd May 2008

With the factory closing down for 2 weeks on Friday and with their been very little in the markets this morning, no fish up the road today. Staff are busy packing breaded products as well as tidying up different areas of the factory. Looking for some fish for the shop on Friday. Was in Cornhill last night doing a demo for Cornhill SWRI. About 35 ladies there and they all seemed to enjoy the Haddock & banana Bake as well as some of our hot smoked producys. Look forward to seeing some of their faces over the coming weeks. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

No I have Not Been on Holiday!! - 21st May 2008

Sorry for not blogging to you for the last wee while but I am back. Some fish on the go but as the factory is closed on Friday for 2 weeks but the shop & internet shop will be open for business as usual. Prices in the markets as high just now and some of the boats are not fishing due to the very high fuel costs at the moment. The Seafood Bar has a weekend off this weekend but The Pipe Band Championships in Turriff on the 1st of June is the first of the large events we will be covering. Speak to you all later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Fish from Peterhead - 14th May 2008

Plenty of fish for the factory today with 140 boxes of haddock from Peterhead. The cooking demo in Corse went well last night with 40 ladies keen to take me home to do their cooking!! Not sure if the wife would have been happy about that. Hope to see some of the faces from last night in the shop over the coming weeks. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

And Still the Sun Shines - 13th May 2008

The weather just now has been great with some new faces appearing in the shop from some of the caravan parks close by. Some fish for the factory again today but only 19 boxes from Fraserburgh. Looking forward to the cooking demo tonight and I will let you know how that goes on Wednesday. Some increased orders for the stores on Wednesday so good to see that the word is out. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Monday Once Again - 12th May 2008

How the weekend passes!! 75 boxes for the factory today from Fraserburgh, Kinlochbervie, Whitby & Scarborough!! The Seafood Bar was at Strathisla Riding Club event at Cornhill with the weather on our side. A good entry with the bar being popular. Hopefull of some more fish this week. Off to Drumblade SWRI on Tuesday for a meeting with 40+ members there. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Another Sunny Day in Whitehills - 7th May 2008

What a beautiful day here in Whitehills with blue sky's and flat calm sea. Not too much fish in the markets but some haddock from Peterhead to keep the factory going. Plenty of other bits 'n' pieces for the troops to be done so we will not have a chance to enjoy the sun today. Golfing tonight in a competition so fingers crossed as I am playing with Alan Downie's sister!! Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

What's happened to the Fish!! - 2nd May 2008

So much for my prediction of their being plenty of fish in the markets today. Only 16 boxes from Fraserburgh Market with 2 bins from Kinlochbervie. The fish from Fraserburgh is mostly for the shop with the 2 bins for factory production. Some wonderfull halibut and lemon sole. The forecast is not looking too good for the weekend but I hope you all enjoy the long weekend. The shop & factory will be open as usual on Monday so I look forward to seeing you then. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

No Fish in the Markets but Fish From Boat - 1st May 2008

At last we have fish from the Russa Taign to keep the factory busy with the possibility of fish in the markets on Friday. Interest from a number of new restaurants for some of our fish products so the word must be out about our quality of goods. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

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

Not too much happening on the market today with no fish landed in Aberdeen, 2323 landed in Peterhead and 686 landed in Fraserburgh. Because of the low levels of landings, only a few boxes from Fraserburgh today. Despite that, still a great selection of fish available in the shop today. Having a meeting with our website designers on Thursday so any ideas for improving the site would be greatly appreciated. Speak to you all soon. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Yahoo It's Friday & Their is Fish!! - 24th August 2007

Well it is Friday once again and the sun is trying to break through in Whitehills. Their are some good landings in Fraserburgh with 596 boxes of fish with 129 boxes of haddock through that. In Peterhead their are 4098 boxes of fish with 2160 boxes of haddock landed. Should get some fish for the factory today. The Vintage Car Rally at Duff House was called into question yesterday due to the soft ground at Duff House itself. After an inspection last night, I beleive that the event is going ahead so fingers crossed for no rain between today and Sunday. Hope to see a good crowd if the weather holds. Have a great weekend and I will speak to you all on Monday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

The sun is Shinning on Whitehills!! - 23rd August 2007

What a difference a day makes!! The sun is shinning but still not too much fish in the markets with 3028 boxes in Peterhead and 438 boxes in Fraserburgh. Almost ready for Sunday with final preperation well under way. No too much other news but will speak to you on Friday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Damp Day in Whitehills - 22nd August 2007

Some fish in the markets today but with poorer weather yet again, the prices have risen once more. Perhaps it is time to take advantage of our fresh haddock at only £8.90 per kg. 3626 boxes of fish landed in Peterhead with 2213 boxes of haddock amongst that. 342 boxes landed in Fraserburgh with very little haddock to choose from. However, we have 44 boxes coming from Peterhead and 13 boxes from Fraserburgh which should keep the shop fully stocked. Hopefull that their will be some more fish landed towards the weekend. This weekend our Seafood Bar is in attendance at the Banff Rotary Vintage Car Rally at Duff House in Banff. If the weather is as good as forecast then it should make a great day out for all of the family. I believe that the number of entrants is up on last year. Speak to you all on Thursday with the latest news fae Whitehills. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Little to No Fish in Fraserburgh - 21st August 2007

After the poor weather yesterday, their is very little fish in Fraserburgh this morning with only 5 boxes of haddock and more than 120 boxes of squid. The squid boats have been working off the Whitehills coast over the past few days. Their is 2216 boxes of fish in Peterhead and of that 1138 are haddock. Still have some of the Audacious fish to cut so that will keep the troops busy for the day. The weather here today is rather damp but it is meant to improve over the next few days as the school kids go back today!! Typical. Speak to you all on Wednesday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back to the Fold after a Few Days Off - 20th August 2007

Back to the grind once again after a few days off with the family before thay all go back to school. Not too much fish in the markets over the last few days but once again, we have fish from the Audacious to work through after it arrived here early this morning. Less than 1600 boxes of haddock in Peterhead with only 124 boxes of haddock in Fraserburgh. The weather at the weekend hampered the Whitehills Gala with torrential rain on Saturday putting the event in doubt but they went ahead on Sunday. The weather was dry but cold and with a heat wave arriving later in the week, the committee must have thought that they chose the wrong weekend!! Still a good variety of fish in the shop today and hopefull of good landings in the markets on Tuesday. Speak to you all then. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

It Has been a While!! - 8th August 2007

Sorry for not keeping up the regular blogs but with preperations for all of the shows, I have been a bit forgetfull with my inserts!! Have been drying out from the flooding at Turriff Show at the weekend. With the effects of the Foot & Mouth problems, their was to be no animals at the show on the Monday but as a result of the torrential rain from Sunday evening and into the early hours of Monday morning, the show committee had little alternative but to cancel the show for the Monday. When we arrived at the showground on the Monday morning to be greeted by the flooded park, we had to wade through to get our stand in the Food Fayre cleared away before the water flooded in. Our Seafood Bar had to be towed out with help from one of the many tractors that were on site. Hopefully once the area dry's out then their will not be too much damage to the show ground. Some more fish in the markets over the last few days and we are expecting fish from the "Audacious" to arrive at the factory early on Thursday morning. That should keep the factory ticking away. Keith Show this weekend so here is hoping that the weather keeps dry but the forecast is not too great - fingers crossed. Speak to you all on Thursday. Alan Stewart - Factory Manager

Still No Change!! - Thursday 26th July 2007

Beleive it or not, we had a Mr Hartley in the shop placing an order for fish to be delivered to Yorkshire on Monday. My mind raced as I remembered the TV advert for Yellow Pages about the elderly gent who was looking to find a book about fly fishing. When I asked our shop customer for the delivery address, he smirked as he could see where my mind was going as, believe it or not, he runs a fly fishing takle shop in Selby!!! Anyway, after that bit of hilarity, not much fish in Fraserburgh today but I have fish coming from Peterhead today to keep the shop & factory ticking along. Herring still fresh as paint and the soup should be a favourite as it is a bit cooler today. Speak to you all on Friday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

All Quiet on the Fish Front - 25th July 2007

As it says, not too much fish landed in the markets today with only 243 in Fraserburgh & 2003 in Peterhead. Some fish up the road from Fraserburgh today and ever hopeful that their will be more in the markets towards the end of the week. An update on Aberdeen fish market: they have demolished the old market just now but the Board are reviewing the situation in light of the low fish landings in Aberdeen over the past few months. Still plenty of fish for the shop with a wide selection avialable. Cullen Skink Soup was a great success yesterday with in excess of 150 portions being delivered throughout the North East - even 40 tubs to Cullen itself!! Speak to you all on Thursday. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

A Bit Damp in Whitehills - 24th July 2007

What a difference a day makes. The sun has gone, the rain has returned and the wind has started to blow. Their is some fish in the markets with 538 in Fraserburgh and 2310 in Peterhead. Heard that Aberdeen Fish Market has been stopped and was demolished yesterday but I have still to see confirmation of this. What that could mean is that the few boats that landed in Aberdeen may now think about landing in Fraserburgh. Every cloud has a silver lining. Herring is still plentiful as well as all of our normal range of fish. We have started to change some of the images on the website to make it easier to choose your fish. Your comments would be appreciated over the coming weeks. Speak to you later. Alan Stewart, Factory Manager.

Back from Holidays! - 23rd July 2007

Well here I am back fully refreshed from a weeks holiday to Dublin to meet Molly Malone!!. I thought that our seafood looked better! Some fish in the markets today with fish coming up the road from both Fraserburgh & Peterhead. The sky is blue and the sun is shinning which is more than can be said for those effected by the rain in England. Looking forward to Turriff Show at the beginning of August and we look forward to seeing as many of our customers there so we can put a face to the name. Hope to have more news for you all on Tuesday. Alan Stewart - Factory Manager

Friday & Misty in Whitehills - 22nd June 2007

As the title says, it is Friday and the mist is rolling in again from the Moray Firth like something out of a horror movie. Very little fish landed in Peterhead & Aberdeen with some haddock landed in Fraserburgh. The factory has been kept busy between filleting & breading to keep our stock figures up. The forecast for the weekend and the start of next week is not too good with a northerly wind arriving Sunday/Monday which will probably effect the landings for next week. I have been watching Jimmy Buchan & Co on "Trawlermen 2" this week and it shows an insight as to what it takes from all types of fishermen to get their catch to the market and then your plate. Some of the persuasive techniques aboard the "Chris Andra" were from the old school of man management!! Shout until they understand what you are telling them!! Getting gearded up for the Portsoy Boat Festival next weekend with the biggest Food Fayre to date. We are all hoping that the weather is okay for the 2 days. Will speak to you all later. Have a great weekend. Alan, Factory Manager.

Fresh Herring available today - 12th June 2007

Some fish in the markets today but still not the vast quantities that I had expected but I am forever hopefull!! Fish from the West coast market arrived this morning as well as fish off Peterhead Market which should keep the factory busy for today & Wednesday. Still no salmon from Alan Downie's expedition to source some West Coast wild salmon but it is not for the lack of trying - fishing at 6am this morning!! The shop is still a bit quiet but the weather could have someting to do with that as we have not seen too much sun this week so far. Found out that the information I gave you on "Trawlermen" was incorrect as the series does not start until the 18th of June. Sorry for that. Speak to you later in the week. Alan, Factory Manager.

A Night with the Stars!! - 11th June 2007

What a day Saturday was at the Emmerdale Event in Aberdeen. Good weather and great crowds all out to raise money for the P & J Year of Giving along with some of the cast from Emmerdale. Our Seafood Bar went down a treat with a que from early lunchtime right up until just after 3pm. Went to the Emmerdale Ball as guests of Alan Downie and all of us at the table had a great evening talking & dancing with some of the cast. Some fish from the market on Saturday and today but not the great landings I had hoped for. Fish from the "Audacious" due on Tuesday and this will be the last landing from this boat as it has been sold to a company in the Faroe Islands. The skipper has got another boat which hopefully means continue landings from the new boat. Alan Downie is out of the office for part of this week as he is away sourcing some salmon. Speak to you later. Alan, Factory Manager.

Herring is Here at Last!! - 6th June 2007

Good morning from a rather damp Whitehills. A better landing of fish into Peterhead today but not too much in either Aberdeen or Fraserburgh. Still have a good selection for the shop with the first of this seasons herring having arrived freshly landed in Peterhead. A perfect meal with new tatties! Things starting to hot up for Saturday's Emmerdale Event with more supplies needed for the Seafood Bar arriving daily. Just checked the weather for Saturday and it is predicting light showers so I hope that they are not too correct this time. Speak to you tommorrow. Alan, Factory Manager

What a Successfull Day at Turriff - 4th June 2007

As the title says, the Pipe Band Championships in Turriff on Sunday were a roaring success with a dry day enjoyed by more than 1000 people. They all must have come to our Seafood Bar as we sold out of somethings during the day. Not too much fish available today but hopefull of some fish in the market on Tuesday. Getting geared up for the Emmerdale Event on Saturday for what should be another good day for the Seafood Bar. Been in contact with Jimmy Buchan of the "Amity" to see when the next series of "Trawlermen" starts so I will advise you when to watch out for the start of this programme on BBC1. Speak to you soon. Alan, Factory Manager.

It's Friday at Last!! - 1st June 2007

Well here we are at the end of another week with the fish from the "Audacious" already in the shop. It arrived safely at 6am today. Not a lot of haddock landed at the markets but Alan Downie still got a good selection for the shop. Lemon sole as big as I have seen for many years so something not to be missed for the start of next week. Looking forward to Turriff Pipe Band Championships on Sunday so I will report how well our fare goes down on Monday. Have a great weekend. Alan, Factory Manager.

What a Difference a Day Makes!- 31st May 2007

After 3 days of rain, what a sunny day it is here in Whitehills. Little to no fish landed in any of the 3 markets but we are expecting fish from the "Audacious" to arrive at the factory in the early hours of Friday morning. Just as well as the haddock was running out for the shop. A bit on the local news last night about Aberdeen fish market. Things not looking too rosey there. Shop has been quite busy today after all of the rain for the last few days. We are off to Turriff Pipe Band Championships on Sunday with the Seafood Bar and hopefully the weather should be on our side. All of the action starts at 12.30pm but we will be there from 10.30 to keep the pipers all fed & watered!! Speak to you on Friday with more exciting news from sunny Whitehills. Alan, Factory Manager.

Things Can Only Get Better!! - 25th May 2007

As the songs says, "Things can only get better" as their is very little fish in the markets today which is very unusual for a Friday. Only 108 boxes in Fraserburgh, 474 in Aberdeen and 1415 in Peterhead!! Still got a fair selection of fish in the shop which should keep us going for today & Saturday with the hope that their will be fish in the market in Fraserburgh on Saturday. The local Scout Group from Macduff is going to the area camp at Mintlaw this weekend to celebrate 100 years of Scouting. They have asked for some smoked fish on the bone to cook over an open fire as part of their tasks for Saturday afternoon. I hope that their is not too much rain as it has been rather wet with some torrential showers. The forecast for the weekend is not looking too good but that can change very quickly. Ever hopefull that their will be some fish in Fraserburgh on Saturday. Fingers crossed. Speak to you all soon. Alan, Factory Manager.

Fish for the Shop - 23rd May 2007

Well, who would believe that it is Wednesday already! Fish from the "Audacious" arrived this morning that will keep the shop in great quality haddock for the remainder of the week. Only 63 boxes landed in Fraserburgh this morning!! Things still very quiet in the rest of the markets but who knows what the weekend will bring. Speak to you all again on Thursday. Alan, Factory Manager.

Bright & Sunnt but Very Little Fish! - 22nd May 2007

Good day from a bright & sunny Whitehills. Very little fish landed in any of the markets this morning. Hopefull that the "Audacious" will be landing in the next few days which may help the cause. Only 24 boxes landed in Fraserburgh, 3500 in Peterhead & 353 in Aberdeen. Does not make great reading. Starting to finalise plans for some of the early shows such as Emmerdale & the Portsoy Boat Festival. Looking forward to seeing some of you at these events. May have some more news on the fish front on Wednesday. Speak to you all then. Alan, Factory Manager.

It's Friday Already! - May 18th 2007

Doesn't time fly when you are enjoying yourself. Hard to believe that it is Friday already and another "busy week" over. Better landings of fish in Fraserburgh this morning with more than 1000 boxes of fish landed but less than 100 is haddock. Never mind though, Alan Downie has 28 boxes of fish coming up the road for the shop & factory. Reports in 1 of the fishing newspapers that Aberdeen Market is under preasure due to the low level of landings this year. Only 37 boxes landed in Aberdeen today!! Time will tell if that market is to remain open. The weather forecast for next week is not too good with some gales due. That will hamper the boats and result in lower landings for the rest of the week. Just getting ready for my radio interview so I will speak to you all next week. Have a great weekend. Alan, Factory Manager

What a selection!! - May 17th 2007

At long last, the selection in the shop is staggering!! Lemon sole the size of plates, cod fresh from the market, megrims glistening in the display, what more can a buddy ask for. Alan Downie was able to go to the market today to get the selection we have today. It was the first time this week that he was personally in the market due to the low levels of landings. The last of the fish landed on Tuesday has been processed and ready for our customer's next order. The demonstration in Dufftown went well last night with 39 ladies in attendance and hopefully a lot more new customers as a result of me cooking haddock & banana bake. Just look at our website for more recipie ideas. Hope for some more fish to cover the shop over the weekend. Speak to you all on Friday. Alan, Factory Manager.

Half Way Throught the Week! - 16th May 2007

Still plenty fish in the factory & shop but little to nothing in any of the 3 fish markets this morning. The haddock we have been processing for the last few days is still in excellent condition which goes to show how well the fish has been looked after once they are onboard the fishing boat. Just goes to show that being a member of "The Responsible Fishing Scheme" does lead to the catch being in better condition when it reaches the processor. The fishing boat this fish came off, the "Audacious", was 1 of the first Scottish Boats to become a member of this scheme. I have been asked to give an interview on the local radio station, Deveron FM, on Friday about our Cullen Skink Soup. Fame at last!! Speak to you all on Thursday. Alan, Factory Manager.

Haddock for the Shop & Factory at long last - 15th May 2007

As you can read, their is good quality haddock just arrived into the shop and factory from one of the most well known whitefish boats in the North of Scotland. And not only that, it is a Whitehills boat skippered & crewed from local lads. It is great to hear the filleting machines churning away from the start of the day as that is what I am looking for from the factory. The factory floor has been too quiet for too long! Plenty Cullen Skink being made today for the shop as well as the orders for Wednesday. Keep you up to date tommorrow. Alan, Factory Manager

Things still Quiet on the fish Front! - 14th May 2007

As you can see from the headline, their is not too much fish landed in the markets today. A total of only 3133 for the 3 markets which is not a lot. Some fish for the shop on Saturday and some bits 'n' pieces today. Hopefull of some fish for the factory & shop on Tuesday. The weather here in Whitehills is warm with beatiful blue skies overhead. Hope to have some better news on the fish fron on Tuesday. Back on the road again later this week. Off to Dufftown to do a demonstration to their local SWRI. I will let you know how it goes later on. Alan, Factory Manager.

Things Stiil Quiet on the Fish Front - 12th May 2007

Good day from a rather damp Whitehills on a Saturday morning. Only 300 boxes of fish landed in Fraserburgh market this morning. I have been able to get some "mixed" bits & pieces for the shop for the start of next week which means that Carol & Betty, the shop quines, will be happy with a good display in the shop counter. The shop quine for Saturday has just arrived to help get the shop ready for all of the regulars on Saturday morning. Have heard from a number of skippers that their has not been too much fish to catch but that can be normal for this time of year, especially with the haddock as they seem to go on their holidays after they have spawned and no one knows where they go. Hope to have some more news for you all at the start of next week so please make sure you keep an eye out for any "special offers" from Downies. Speak to you later. Alan, Factory Manager

Downie's First Blog - 11th May 2007

Well, here we are with the first ever blog entry. Not been much fish landed these past few days with only 93 boxes of fish landed in Fraserburgh this morning. The shop in Whitehills has been a bit quieter. Some special offers on our Hot Smoked Salmon and our Breaded Haddock Singles, which should not be missed! Sales of our own Cullen Skink Soup have been going well due to the slighty colder weather the last few weeks. Well worth a taste! Have been speaking to another blogger, none other than Jimmy Buchan, Skipper of the "Amity 2" of the "Trawlermen" series from the BBC. He tells me that another series is due from screening on the 11th of June. This will show all of our customers what is done by the crews to ensure that you are receiving quality fish from Scotland's waters. Alan Downie and myself were out entertaining 100 women last night!! Do not worry though, it was a cooking demonstration at Auchnagatt SWRI! Seemed to go down well! Looking forward to seeing more of that group in our shop in Whitehills. I hope that their will be more fish landed in the fish markets on Saturday. Keep an eye out on our blog site as I will be keeping our customer base up to date with what is happening in our little corner of Scotland. Alan, Manager.

NEW! Fishing update diary - 14.12.2006

Welcome to our new fishing diary - where we will post regular updates on all that's new in the Scottish fishing industry.