The second meeting of the Salmon Bothy Family History group will take place on 6th March when John R Barrett will talk about Banffshire's clearances and deserted settlements. John is well regarded as a historian and has appeared on TV when 'Who do you think you are' researched Fiona Bruce's roots in Hopeman. He has also written several books, has contributed articles to the Knock News, and has been heavily involved in Scotland's Rural Past. Scotland's Rural Past is a five year initiative, run by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) with partnership funding. The project works with local communities to research, record and promote Scotland's vanishing historic rural settlements and landscapes. The session will start at 2pm and finish around 4pm. There is no membership fee but each session will be priced separately between £2-£6 depending on the activity or speaker- this includes refreshments. Come along and gain tips and techniques on how to pursue your family history research, listen to speakers, participate on hands-on activities and get to know other like-minded people!   Alison Smith Genealogy Coordinator Portsoy Salmon Bothy