Dumbarton, Vale of Leven, Balloch & Drymen Community Advertiser - November 2019

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Dumbarton, Vale of Leven, Balloch & Drymen

FREE • November 2019

DUMBARTON

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7PM 4TH NOVEMBER – LEVENGROVE PARK More info on page 4

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LOCAL NEWS • WHAT'S ON • NIGHTLIFE • TRADE DIRECTORY • ESSENTIAL INFO • SUPPORT GROUPS

Contents Historic Engines Turn Again ....... 3 Who’s that Fireworks Guy? ........ 4 Rowed to Nowhere Triumph ..... 5 Fifty Years of St Michael’s ........... 6 Loch Heritage at a Glance .......... 7 Is Castle our Rising Star? ............. 8 Foodshare Needs Our Help ........ 8 Tales of our Historic Burgh ....... 10 A Festive Run for Christmas ....... 11 Swimmingly Good Santa Fun ... 12 Burgh HQ ‘Simply the Best’ ...... 12 Late News ................................... 12 West End Link to the Burgh ..... 14 What’s Up Doc ........................... 14 MSP Backs Growing Sport ........ 17 Support Groups ............................ 17 Dreaming of Christmas ...... 18&19 NHS Set for a Smokes Ban ........ 20 Legal Matters ................................ 20 What’s On Calendar ............. 21-26 Lights Say ‘It’s Christmas’! ......... 27 Tale of Elephants and Castles ... 27 The Bruce as Outlaw King ........ 28 Nightlife ...................................... 30 Green Light for Marine Park .... 31 Babcock 10k Series 2020 ........... 32 Winnock’s Winning Ways ......... 34 Festive Fair Charity Boost .......... 34 Advertisers Index ....................... 34

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Essential Info 999 or 112 for…

Tourist Information Centre

• Fire Brigade • Police • Ambulance • Coastguard • Mountain rescue • Cave rescue

• Visit Scotland, Balloch: 01389 753 533

Police Station: 101

• AA 24 Hour Breakdown Service: 0800 88 77 66 • RAC 24 Hour Breakdown Service: 0800 82 82 82

Road Breakdown Service

Water Help Line 0845 601 8855 Powercut Help Line: 105

Taxis

Gas Emergencies: 0800 111 999

• Wrights Taxis: 01389 721 020 • Co-op Taxis: 01389 753 376 • TOA Taxis: 01389 742 121

The Samaritans • 24-hour: 08457 90 90 90

Airports

NHS 24: 111 Medical Centre – Dumbarton • • • • • • •

Dr Dunn: 01389 811 833 Dr Logan: 01389 811 811 Dr McMaster: 01389 811 862 Dr McDevitt: 01389 811 855 Caption Dr Neilston: 01389 811 851 Dr Tooke: 01389 811 811 Levenside: 01389 811844

Hospitals • Gartnavel Royal Hospital: 1055 Great Western Road 0141 211 3600 • Golden Jubilee Hospital: Clydebank.

0141 951 5000 • The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital: 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow 0141 201 1100 • Royal Alexandra Hospital: Corsebar Road, Paisley: 0141 887 9111 • Vale of Leven General Hospital: North Main Street, Alexandria.

01389 754121

Chemists/Pharmacies • • • • • • • • • • •

Alliance: 01389 752 038 Alexandria: 01389 752 012 Balloch: 01389 752 476 Bellsmyre: 01389 768 818 Bonhill: 01389 722 822 Boots: 01389 763907 Brucehill: 01389 742 384 Cardross: 01389 841 999 Greenhead: 01389 742225 Kemps: 01389 762 598 Lloyds: Station Road 01389 765 077 High Street 01389 762 359 • Marchbanks: 01389 752 914

• Glasgow: 0844 481 5555 • Edinburgh: 0844 448 8833 • Prestwick: 01292 479822

Rail Enquiries • National Rail: 08457 48 49 50 • Trainchecker: 08712 00 49 50

Bus and Coach • National Express: 0870 580 8080 • McGill’s: 08000 51 56 51

Vets • Glenbrae Veterinary Clinic: 18 Station Road, Dumbarton 01389 765 555 • McKenzie Vets: 26 Gilmour Street, Alexandria. 01389 751 182

West Dunbartonshire Council • Main: 01389 737 000 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • Customer Contact Centre: 01389 738 282 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • Out of Hours Emergencies: 0800 197 1004 • Social Work Emergencies: 0300 343 1505

Dunbartonshire and Argyll & Bute Valuation Joint Board • Assessor & Electoral Registration Officer: 0141 562 1200 • ero-wdc@dab-vjb.gov.uk

Libraries • Alexandria: 01389 608974 • Balloch: 01389 608989 • Dumbarton: 01389 608992

Locksmith • Keys Galore: 01436 675649 • 24-hour: 07718 197957

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Local News | November 2019

HISTORIC ENGINES TURN AGAIN The long-running Maid of the Loch project suddenly seems more “doable” than at any time since she was salvaged as little more than a derelict hulk.

The recent television broadcast showing her engines turning for the first time in nearly 40 years suddenly made the whole project appear “real” instead of merely theoretic – taking the vessel to the point when for her legions of supporters it’s now more a case of “when” than “if”.

However long it takes to bring the vessel back to full operational working order the sight of those engines turning with faultless synchrony must for some have

been like a journey into a past life – indeed many of the Maid’s most fervent supporters probably weren’t even born when the crucial machinery sadly fell into disuse and decay.

The engines’ resurrection is a great note on which to end 2019, but it all looked very different back in January.

That’s when the Maid was supposed to be taking part in a landmark “slipping”, only for her to break her restraints to hurtle at an alarming speed back into the loch.

The plan had been to haul the vessel out of the water at the Balloch slipway using the original winch, but it had all gone horribly wrong.

Worse, the debacle – ultimately just “one of those things” – made for the kind of prime time TV slot nobody involved in the venture had ever wanted to see.

It was at that moment that even

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some of the most enthusiastic volunteers must have wondered if the project might not somehow be hopelessly jinxed, but luckily things improved steadily from that point on.

scheme some thought was taking too long, or was impractical from inception, is alive and kicking – and that success really is there to be won at some point in the hopefully not too distant future.

There have been grant disappointments too, but the setbacks luckily had the happy effect of galvanising further support, notably from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, along with several other high profile backers.

The best chapter in the epic story of the Maid of the Loch has still to be written.

John Beveridge, chairman of the Loch Lomond Steamship Company, summed it all up in an STV interview in which he said that while there’s still plenty of hard work ahead “we are more determined than ever to succeed”.

The firing up of those engines sent a clear message to the Maid’s legions of fans, young and old, that a

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November 2019 | Local News

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Guy Fawkes Night is November 5, as in “Remember, Remember, the fifth of November” – but this year’s local fireworks are on Monday, November 4.

That doesn’t matter at all, of course, because Guy Fawkes has somehow been elbowed out of the script where “Bonfire Night” (as many now call it) is concerned.

For younger readers Guy, or Guido, was an assassin who attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and with them King James VI of Scotland and I of England.

The plot was foiled, Guido was horribly executed, and a bonfireand-fireworks spectacular was staged every year from then on to celebrate this early counterterrorism success.

Until recently Guy was burned in effigy on the bonfire, a tradition they still carry on every year in some of the quainter corners of the country.

Here, in the space of a couple of decades, the Gunpowder Plot, Guy Fawkes and the whole reason for having a fireworks event has been all but forgotten – but since

lots of people like fireworks the tradition is carried on regardless.

Many will be aware that for years there has been a debate about whether the non-event, as it now is, justifies the legalised sale of gunpowder products to the general public – and we could finally be heading to a ban.

Fireworks terrify animals and when improperly used can cause horrific injuries to people, so even for those who are quite happy to see “bonfire night” continue the logical solution is to permit fireworks only in displays staged by the local authority.

Safe, fun, well-organised and also free, this year’s councilrun spectacular is on Monday, November 4 in Levengrove Park from 7pm to 9pm, and lasts around 20 minutes – and should be great.

But, says the council, “please don't take your own fireworks or sparklers and please leave pets at home”.

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Local News | November 2019

ROWED TO NOWHERE TRIUMPH Seldom have so many people scored such a spectacular success from a rowing effort that didn’t actually involve going anywhere in particular.

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We’re talking about the recent rowathon event staged as a fundraising effort by volunteers at Loch Lomond Rowing Club, in which eight teams toiled away for twelve hours without moving an inch.

phase objectives which have already been achieved.

The rowing was real enough, however, involving back breaking labour on rowing machines sited on top of Balloch’s Sea Life centre for the day.

Adam told Dumbarton Community Advertiser: “All the funds are going to assist the club’s refurbishment project that aims to install new toilets that are disabled friendly, and a changing area”.

On the still-to-do list are facilities which will greatly aid the club’s ability to attract people who have a disability.

The volunteers raised just under £3,500 to add to the £7,000 already gained from a National Lottery grant – with the aim of funding critical repairs to the clubhouse.

He added: “The Sea Life centre was terrific, and without them this wouldn’t have been possible.

The ambitious fundraising event was organised by club member Adam Maxwell, to build on the £30,000 already spent on the club’s roof and gym – the first

“A massive thanks to them and fellow

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sponsors South Lanarkshire building supplies, Nikon, and Heather MacDonald of Tarradh Guest house in Lochinver for donating the first team prize.

“The local clubs were great too. Helensburgh running club entered two ladies teams with 15 rowers- it was amazing to see a local athletics club help out a local club”.

With the club’s 200th anniversary looming, gearing up the clubhouse for the demands of the decades to come had assumed an urgent priority, and imaginative ideas – and solid effort – have combined to make it all happen.

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5

November 2019 | Local News

Stitt REMOVALS

FIFTY YEARS OF ST MICHAEL’S

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This is just the first month of what will be an entire year of celebration for the 50 years Saint Michael’s Primary School has been educating local children.

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The landmark anniversary was celebrated in style recently, with a special Mass conducted

by Archbishop Tartaglia, and attended by former head teachers, pupils, parish priests and many others from across the community.

The story began in 1969, year of the moon landings, and on the first day of opening the school roll numbered 722 children in 16 classes, with a staffing complement of 19 teachers.

St Michael's Primary School celebrates 50 years

since 1969, especially on February 18, 1998, when the children, staff and parents were led in procession along Cardross Road to their new school building on the site of the former Saint Patrick’s boys’ secondary.

Of course the nature of Scottish education has changed in hugely The school’s first head teacher, important ways over the last Sister Mary John, is fondly half century, with the arrival of remembered when pupils take computers and the digital age, part in the school’s annual football but throughout the school’s tournament – The Sister Mary history to date the pivotal John Cup. role of St Michael’s in the local There have been many memorable community has arguably been the one consistent element which moments in the life of the school

has remained steadfast through several generations of pupils.

Head teacher, Jennifer Mulvenna, said: “It is a real privilege to be head teacher during this very special year for the school. Saint Michael’s has a long and proud history in Dumbarton of serving local families and the children are a credit to the school.

“I would like to thank the staff and whole school community for their continued support.”

Education convener Karen Conaghan said: “Saint Michael’s is a very popular school and I am pleased to see the school reach this wonderful milestone”.

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Local News | November 2019

DELIVERY STAFF WANTED Deliver once a month in your area Good rates of pay Various runs, various hours

APPLY ONLINE AT: communityadvertiser.co.uk, go to ‘SUBMIT’ then ‘DELIVERY STAFF APPLICATION’

Or send a text to 07876 161 548 with your name, address, landline, mobile, email postcode, date of birth & area of delivery or phone and leave a message with the above details

Must be 13+

Andy Roger (Chairman of Love Loch Lomond) , John Urquhart (Friends Trustee) and Audrey Calder (Loch Lomond Shores) launching the new exhibition

LOCH HERITAGE AT A GLANCE Loch Lomond has a bigger story to tell than could easily be managed in any one exhibition, however detailed.

However with streams of visitors coming to the area in everincreasing numbers the logic behind Lomond Shores’ decision to open a special display on the area’s history and genealogy is inspired.

Hunt about online and there is plenty of local detail waiting to be discovered, but chances are many people visiting the Shores are only vaguely aware of how the bonnie banks fit in to the wider picture of Scottish culture.

Names like Colquhoun and McGregor echo resoundingly down the ages, amplified by myth and romantic fiction – but nonetheless

JGS

as authentic reminders of turbulent times when the Lennox was “the Wild West”.

More recent history has seen the development of a keen appreciation of the natural environment.

For somebody arriving in the area from Glasgow, England, France or Australia there is now a one-stop “hello” in the form of this eyecatching new fixture, put together at a cost of around £5,000 from Loch Lomond Shores and the Friends of Loch Lomond.

The display was formally opened

by Andy Roger, chairman of local

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He said: “This exhibition is a unique and incredibly useful resource for those visiting the area.

“Not only does it give them historic and general information about Loch Lomond, it also highlights its diversity and what each individual area around the loch has to offer - allowing visitors to choose the places to visit that best suit their particular interests.

“Local people, especially school children, will also benefit from the exhibition if they want to learn more about this beautiful area of Scotland that they live in.”

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7

November 2019 | Local News

FENCING & GROUNDWORKS New Fencing Fencing Repairs Decking Patios Driveways Dry Stone Dyking Artificial Grass

IS CASTLE OUR RISING STAR? FOODSHARE It will be very gratifying to many local people – and Historic Environment Scotland – to note that the monuments man at the Rock is up for an award.

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Joseph Sellors, who manages Dumbarton Castle, is one of two regional finalists in the Scottish Thistle Awards (West region) Rising Star category, which will be judged later this month – and to even reach that stage is itself a major success.

However if Joseph clinches the title it will undoubtedly bring fresh lustre to an iconic structure which in recent years has seen visitor figures rise dramatically – helped by special events, a new enthusiasm for Scottish history, and of course by various film and TV ventures on historic themes.

It is a “clash of the Titans” final, as Joseph’s fellow contender is Jack Power of Trump Turnberry, which in its own way is also a big visitor draw.

At a time when visitor tourism to Scottish castles is going through the roof the additional glory of a major national award could only be good news, and hopefully help to give Dumbarton more of the sort of visitor action enjoyed by Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle, which are the undoubted tourism honeypots of the heritage scene.

8 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

NEEDS OUR HELP As this issue was preparing to go to press West Dunbartonshire Foodshare in Dumbarton was seeking volunteers able to donate a few hours each week to help out at its local base – and travel expenses can be paid.

With the Christmas season looming, a variety of initiatives will require the usual generous help of the local community, and a visit to the group’s Facebook site will show exactly what is needed and when – and how to donate.

Meanwhile if you could be a foodshare volunteer (opening hours are 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday), email wdcommunityfoodshare@ outlook.com and provide a contact number so that the group’s coordinator can get in touch.

Local Business | November 2019

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Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solutionâ&#x20AC;Ś Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118.

We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it.

With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt and he services Dumbarton and the surrounding areas.

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9

TALES OF OUR HISTORIC BURGH

RS EA

Many local people will already have a copy of one or other of the books produced by knowledgeable local co-authors Anne and Mary.

EXPE

30 Y

November 2019 | Local News

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Their fascinating local tales aim to tell stories about the Burgh’s recent and not-so-recent past in a down to earth but thoroughly engaging way, and are in continual demand – which explains why book number five is already in the pipeline.

Now you can help raise cash for the Beatson charity in time for Christmas by buying Book One for just £1 from the Craft Shop in Mitchell Way, Alexandria.

Meanwhile a visit to the Craft Shop at this time of year will hardly go amiss – it’s stocked with a great variety of local hand-crafted goods at what aim to be reasonable prices, and naturally at the moment there’s a definite emphasis on gifts

suited to Christmas, whether for a special present or a stocking filler.

The place is run by volunteers, and is a mine of information about the area, past and present – and as this issue goes to press Mags, in overall charge of the shop, is clearing the upper floor room to make it available for community use.

That first book, incidentally, concentrates on Dumbarton, and while it cannot tell the whole story aims to give both locals and visitors as taste of the richness of the Burgh’s heritage – the other books in the series do a similar job for other areas nearby.

If the pair manage to sell 100 copies, which should be doable, they will donate a further 50 books for sale.

It’s worth the few pence involved, particularly for such a good read, as Anne and Mary have already sent £400 to Beatson from the sale of books one to four.

What is the Elephant and Castle all about? If you weren’t taught the answer to this one at school this fascinating insight into the folklore of Dumbarton could be a good place to look.

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Local News | November 2019

A FESTIVE RUN FOR CHRISTMAS

In fact the event on Sunday, December 1 is in aid of two good causes – Funding Neuro, and Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland – and there’s a choice of 10km, half marathon, 5km and 2km options.

As ever the event is noncompetitive, which is why it is badged as a “training run”, but the route will be supported with marshals and appropriate signage – and as the run is now in its ninth year we can take it as read that

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It aims to identify issues which hinder progress and find solutions so that research and innovative therapies can be accelerated.

The half marathon begins at Dumbarton’s Meadow Sports Centre, and for information about other events (starting in Dalmuir or Anniesland) contact Alan, as above, or Maurice Donohue at mauricedonohue@ btinternet.com.

JRM HEATING

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Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland supports older people living with dementia, depression and loneliness by getting them involved in social activities and helping them to recall memories of watching or playing sport.

Funding Neuro aims to boost the development of new treatments for many of the most serious neurological conditions, without duplicating the work carried out by other charities.

To help things go with a festive swing volunteers and runners are encouraged to “wear something festive” – even a Santa hat would do the trick – or perhaps even come dressed as a favourite sporting icon.

Prices from £155

Meanwhile the two causes which will benefit should probably need no introduction by now, because they have certainly made an impact locally in recent years.

Es

If you are thinking of participating you need to register, and you can do that by emailing Alan Kennedy at surface@ gmail.com, saying which distance you aim to run and including contact details.

the organisation will be up to the usual high standard.

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Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 11

November 2019 | Local News

SWIMMINGLY BURGH HQ ‘SIMPLY THE BEST’

Sea Life Loch Lomond is introducing its first ever Santa’s Grotto this month, along with attractions which include a festive quiz trail through the aquarium, and Christmas crafts.

Pre-booking is required for this aquatic slant to the holiday season entertainment, and each child ticket purchased will include a ticket both for the grotto and the aquarium.

The Christmas Spectacular at Sealife Loch Lomond will run from Sunday, November 17 to Monday, December 23, and promises to offer something a little different from the average Santa Claus session.

You can find out more at www. visitsealife.com/loch-lomond/ tickets/?packageID=61505.

The landmark success comes after the site was transformed into a modern town centre base while retaining the building’s Grade A listed facade, originally designed

by William Leiper.

After winning a regional award from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors earlier this year the project has gone on to win the national title.

The honour is only awarded to a scheme that can demonstrate outstanding best practice and an exemplary commitment to adding value to its local area.

Sunday 3rd Clydebank Salvation Army Band Riverside Church

2pm. Entry by donation at the church door. Proceeds to Salvation Army. Tea/coffee/biscuits. Come and join us for an afternoon of entertainment.

Saturday 9th Friends of St. Augustine’s Crafty Coffee Morning

Community Hall, St. Mary’s Way Building’s Grade A listed facade was originally designed by William Leiper

Judges said the transformation of the former Dumbarton Academy building had brought new vitality and spending power to the town centre.

Regeneration convener Councillor Iain McLaren said: “We are extremely proud of Dumbarton’s rich heritage, and Church Street has been sympathetically conserved to ensure that we did not lose even a small part of that.

The ambitious conservation project, which was supported by Historic Environment Scotland, also aimed to ensure that Dumbarton’s heritage is preserved “On top of that, this building has also given a huge economic boost – an objective the local authority to the local area.” is certain has been achieved.

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10am-1pm. Selection of home made items on sale suitable for Christmas.

Tombola and raffle, tea/coffee with toast, scones, pancakes etc.

Admission £3.

Saturday 30th Christmas Market

Dumbarton West Kirk Hall 10am-3pm. Christmas Market with a good variety of stalls including crafts, personalised gifts, advent houses and wooden toys, Christmas gifts, home baking, hampers, stocking fillers. Teas, coffees with home baking served all day.

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November 2019 | What's Up Doc?

WEST END LINK TO THE BURGH Glasgow is just a short train ride from Dumbarton, but for anyone with access to a computer there’s no actual gap between the two places at all.

From her eyrie somewhere near Anniesland Cross, Pat has one eye on the immediate local scene and another on the boulevard leading to Dumbarton, Loch Lomond, and beyond.

Whether it’s a Loch Lomond music festival, or coverage of the

with Dr Nick Dunn

This month: ALL BEING WELL…?

What is the difference between Health and Well-being? As doctors we are concerned with keeping people as healthy as possible, but clearly this is not the whole story. Health in its simplest sense, is just about not being ill.

Pat Byrne

That’s the firm conviction of former West Dunbartonshire resident Pat Byrne, who has just celebrated 20 years of running her hugely popular West End website – which informs readers not just about shops, arts and events in and around areas like Byres Road or Kelvinbridge but also areas like Dumbarton which have their own steadily-evolving arts scenes.

What's Up Doc?

literary evenings run in Balloch, Pat says the added dimension provided by a vibrant slice of Clydeside has helped make her website a success story that keeps on developing in scope and stature with the passing of every year.

As a solid community endeavour with much to recommend it we wish Pat and her many contributors many happy returns – and meanwhile here is a link to her profile of writer Mary Irvine, originally from Yorkshire but now a firm devotee of the Burgh and its heritage: www. glasgowwestend.co.uk/glasgowwriter-mary-irvine.

Well-being is described as “feeling good and functioning well”.

The New Economics Foundation, describes a more positive approach by encouraging people to live their best life by doing these five things: Connect – with family, friends, colleagues or neighbours – building connections provides stability in a fast-changing world; Take Notice – Use all your senses to appreciate what’s around you and take stock from time to

time to reflect on who or what is important to you; Keep learning – find new challenges and experiences – this keeps you young and builds confidence ; Be Active – Regular exercise lifts mood and reduces anxiety as well as staying fit – walking, running cycling, swimming or dancing, it doesn’t matter what; Give – Do something for others when you can, even something small – it will make you feel better, as well as those around you.

As people, including GPs, are living busier lives, we could all benefit from paying attention to our well-being!

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Local Business | November 2019

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Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 15

November 2019 | Local Business

Buchanan Castle Golf Club

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NEW MEMBERSHIP OFFER 15 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 12 Join November2019 – 2nd year subscription due 1st February 2021 Full member: Year 1: £500.00 Age 25 – 30: Year 1: £350.00 Age 18 – 24: Year 1: £180.00

Year 2: £600.00 Year 2: £420 Year 2: £215.00

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Members of the James Braid Association Excellent driving range facilities (open & covered) Fully stocked professional shop Open all year round

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For details contact: 01360 660330 Or email: secretary@buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035 For application form: www.buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk/membership

Local News | November 2019

MSP BACKS GROWING SPORT skills, discipline and friendships as well as giving players a focus that benefits them both physically and mentally.

Powerchair football is a growing sport in Scotland

Organisations working hard to give more people across Scotland the chance to play powerchair football have won the support of Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie.

She recently met with representatives of the Scottish Powerchair Football Association and the Clyde Powerchair Football Club to hear their sound reasons behind the call to lend extra strength to a sport that can deliver enormous benefits to those involved.

Powerchair football is a growing sport in Scotland with teams competing in the Scottish Powerchair Football Association Leagues.

Players can either compete by

having special bumpers attached to their own wheelchairs or, for more serious competition, they can use specially modified sports powerchairs that are faster and more responsive.

Played by four-a-side teams on a pitch roughly the size of a basketball court, the sport is open to powered wheelchair users and is currently the only team sport open to disabled athletes who use a powered chair.

Jackie Baillie said: “Powerchair football allows people to develop

“I have constituents in Dumbarton who enjoy playing the sport and I hope that West Dunbartonshire Council supports local players and provides the funding needed to allow this great game to grow.

“I welcome the decision by the Scottish Government to require Changing Places toilet facilities in all new build Sport Centres.

“However, many existing sports facilities across Scotland are not accessible to Powerchair footballers.

“By improving disabled facilities and supporting the work of the SPFA, the Scottish Government has the chance to make a real difference to Scottish Para footballers.

“I have written to Joe FitzPatrick MSP, the Minister for Sport, and asked him to consider greater funding and support for powerchair football and other sports aimed at disabled individuals in my constituency and across Scotland.”

Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous Help for those who may have a problem with alcohol. There’s a meeting near you.

Call the national helpline 0800 9177 650

Al-Anon Family Groups Understanding, strength and hope for anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else’s drinking. Local meetings available. 24hr helpline: 020 7403 0888

Alzheimers Scotland Information and advice. Drop-In Cafe on Wednesdays (10am-12noon). Miller Street, Clydebank. Tel: 0141 410 5306. 24-hour Helpline – Freephone 0808 808 3000

DACA Advice and information about reducing the harms of drinking. Free, confidential 1-to-1 alcohol counselling. Call anytime on 01389 731456 (out of hours answering service).

Tel: 01389 731456

Dumbartons Women’s Aid A free confidential service of support and counelling for women and children who have been affected by domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault or child abuse.

Tel: 01389 751036

Leven Addiction Services Rehabilitation & Other Services: Access to supported accommodation.

Tel: 01389 812018

Lomond & Clyde Care and Repair Help for senior citizens who struggle to maintain their properties or would like help adapting their house to their needs.

Call the care and repair office on 01389 734188

Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Services We offer a listening ear and time for you to talk. Call Helen on 01389 608049 or 07747 791089

IS PUBLISHED BY: Community Advertiser Ltd 24-28 James Street, Helensburgh G84 8UH T: 01389 717035 E: info@thecommunitymagazine.co.uk

G N RI S SU TE EA A M TIM EE ES FR &

THE TEAM: Stuart Mainland (Editor/Publisher) Iain McEwan (Publisher) Debbie Mainland (Head of Sales) Darren Clarke (Sales Executive) Roy Smith (Journalist) Fraser Thompson (Design & Production Manager) Jennifer Marno (Graphic Designer) Stuart 'Rupert' Brodie (Design & Production) Alan Richmond (Design & Production) Elizabeth Grant (Accounts) Vicki Robinson (Delivery Manager) Aileen Dorrian (Proofreader) and the best delivery team in the area

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DEFINITIONS: ‘Standards’ means the British Code of Advertising Practice and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act 1968, the consumer Credit Act 1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements.

It is hereby agreed that: the placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising. All advertisements in this publication must not contravene the Standards. Insertion of Advertisements and/or is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher. The Publisher shall not liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear.

In the event of any error, misprint or omission by the Publisher in printing of an Advertisement, the Publisher will either re-insert the advertisement, adjust the cost or provide a refund. This does not apply if the Advertisement has been already been approved by the Advertising Client prior to the publication. The total liability of the Publisher for such an occurrence shall not exceed the amount of a full refund for that particular Advertisement.

The Advertising Client agreed to indemnify the Publisher in respect to all costs, damages or other charges falling upon the Publisher as a result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the publication of the Advertisement, or any one of more of the series of Advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions supplied to the Publisher.

The opinions of the Contributors to this Publication are not necessarily the Official views of the Publisher.

Readers are reminded that when purchasing items or services advertised in the Publication that the Publisher cannot be held in any way responsible for the quality or correctness of the items or services included in the Advertisement.

Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk

National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Breastfeeding Support Trained NCT Breastfeeding Counsellor to offer support and information.

Call Sally on 01436 673942

National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Lomond Branch Support for expecting parents, new parents and parents of young children.

Call Sally on 01436 673942

Overeaters Anonymous Self help Fellowship group meeting.

Mondays 6.30pm, Vale of Leven Hospital & Thursdays, 7.30pm, Benview, Dumbarton Call us on 07505 848 493

Scottish Association for Mental Health Information to the public, professionals and people with mental health problems. Phone 0141 568 7000 (Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm)

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Help (SSAFA) The national charity helping serving and ex service men, women and their families, in need. Tel: 07453 031443 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk

Smokeline For free advice and help and to be put in touch with local services please call 0800 848484

The Carers of West Dunbartonshire Helping to make a positive difference in the lifes of carers. Tel: 0141 941 1550

West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau Free service that helps people to know their rights covering Dumbarton, Alexandria and Clydebank. Tel: 01389 744690

November 2019 | Dreaming of Christmas

TEL: 01389 734 376 127 COLLEGE STREET/ 2 STATION ROAD (THE OLD STATION BAR) DUMBARTON G82 1NH

Dreaming of

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The festive madness begins in earnest accompanied by the usual bombardm on TV and special offers in stores.

But even although we all know how frenetic it can become even the most experienced organisers of the perfect family Christmas can find themselves overwhelmed by what can seem a hugely complex and demanding task – and that at a time of year when the weather outside can be frightful (to coin a phrase).

It’s all very well to talk about “planning”, but that rather takes the spontaneity out of things, relegating what should be a happy annual occasion to just another irksome chore.

Possibly the best approach is to plan the absolutely unavoidable

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18 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

Dreaming of Christmas | November 2019

stmas

see items that suddenly “click” as brilliant gift choices for this uncle or that niece.

t this month, ment of adverts

basics first, leaving time for shopping and other preparations that could even be – dare to mention it – fun.

Inevitably most of us will go online for a fair bit of the annual spend, but a look at what’s available on the doorstep (and at the advertisements in The Community Advertiser) can yield interesting ideas at often valuefor-money prices, and often of the sort of individual gifts that aren’t necessarily available at the click of a mouse.

For festive food fare, for example, you might want to check out the deals at your quality local butcher or poulterer, baker, confectioner, etc – and maybe award yourself some time for a leisurely trawl through one or more of the excellent markets that pop up within easy reach of home at this time of year.

From a practical point of view you can set yourself a budget in advance, so you don’t get too carried away – but with this type of shopping you will invariably

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Then there is the minor but still important detail – the visitor who doesn’t drink much, but is very partial to a nice Fino sherry, or the cousin who is strictly vegetarian or, increasingly more likely these days, the guests who are fully committed to a Vegan diet.

You can, of course, if hard pressed, let your fingers do the walking and just order everything online, but that tends to lend a certain dull predictability to a season which should be about individuality and surprises.

While pondering how to spend your hard-earned cash - and on what – you might also like to consider how much cooking and washing up you intend to do over the Christmas season.

Not everybody fancies the idea of a Christmas Day excursion to some favourite local restaurant, but it can be a welcome relief – and a

treat – for those who will be doing all the cookery on December 25 to be able to enjoy at least one special evening where they don’t have to do anything but relax and enjoy themselves.

Nor do you have to restrict these choices to the no doubt excellent traditional Christmas offerings, as a diversion into (for example) Asian, Chinese or Mediterranean cuisine can be a welcome break from delightful but very familiar Scottish fare.

Of course a lot of pre-Christmas preparation is always going to be strictly practical – you must catch the last posting date for Uncle Archie in New Zealand, and you must place that special order with the family butcher by a certain date… so best to get the “mustdo’s” out of the way as quickly as possible, giving yourself plenty of time to fine tune your own “perfect Christmas” at something like a leisurely pace.

Above all, be sure to have yourself a merry little Christmas – it needn’t be a frenetic last-gasp dash to the shops if you get the basics right, and at the end of it you can congratulate yourself, perhaps with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, on a “job” that has been not only jolly, but jolly well done.

Loch Lomond Gift House “We have the gift for giving”

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A fantastic range of traditional and design led gifts right on your doorstep in the heart of the village of Balloch. As well as a warm welcome, you'll find this long established, fabulous local independent Gift and Highland wear store, packed full of Souvenirs, clan gifts, quaichs, ceramics, candles, jewellery, harris tweed accessories, amazing gifts, greetings cards and much more. Something for every occasion.

Candles Half Day Visit Including: Lunch or Afternoon Tea From £69 Revive Spa Day Including: Relaxing Water Massage & Lunch From £99

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Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 19

November 2019 | Legal Matters

NHS SET FOR A SMOKES BAN Smoking in the precincts of hospitals like the Vale could soon be banned altogether, once a new consultation has been assessed.

The Scottish Government move follows years of pleading with the public to keep tobacco use well away from hospitals, but the voluntary approach has (nationally) largely fallen on deaf ears.

hospital grounds, which should yield some interesting answers.

The consultation is also asking for people’s opinions about vaping and electronic cigarettes on

with Gill Bowman BA LLB from Cairns Brown Solicitors

This month: FIREWORKS With the dark nights well and truly upon us we are already hearing the explosion of fireworks. Gone are the days when it was restricted to the 5th of November and accordingly there has been an increase in the number of injuries and noise complaints associated with Fireworks.

The problem where the Vale is concerned may be in determining exactly where any such ban is supposed to start, as it does not have the clear “compound” set-up of hospitals in more dense urban environments – and it could be difficult to police every conceivable area where the authorities would like to see a ban.

However the announcement of the consultation makes it clear that change is on the way, and that the discussion is really about the fine points of enforcement rather than whether or not it should proceed.

Legal Matters

The legislation making hospital smoking an offence is in place, and in the new year – once that consultation is considered – the government will spell out exactly how the new regime will work in practice.

The law surrounding the use of fireworks in the UK is set out in the Fireworks Act 2003 and The Fireworks (Scotland) Regulations 2004 hold the specific restrictions applicable to us.

This legislation was introduced in an attempt to counteract both the noise nuisance and the injuries sustained. Firstly, no-one under the age of eighteen should be in possession of a firework.

Those over eighteen must not set off fireworks, including sparklers, in any public place. The practical meaning of this is that you can either have a private display in your garden or attend a local public display. No fireworks should be lit between the hours of 11pm and 7am, the only exceptions being Bonfire Night, when the restriction commences at 12am or Chinese New Year, Diwali and Hogmanay when it is 1am.

Fireworks must only be purchased from licensed or registered sellers. Failure to comply with the regulations could result in anything from an on the spot fine of £90 to a summary conviction with penalties up to £5,000 or a six month prison sentence.

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What's On...

YOUR DEFINITIVE EVENTS DIARY FOR THE DUMBARTON, BALLOCH, VALE OF LEVEN & DRYMEN AREA.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY FRI

1

NOV

BALLOCH BABY TODDLER PLAYGROUP Bonhill Church FREE COMPUTER CLASS Longcrags Centre

SAT

9

NOV

WED

6

NOV

A NIGHT WITH HEELSTER GOWDIE Dumbartonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Denny Civic Theatre

FillOn in Form our What's On Form on our website: communityadvertiser.co.uk/whatson Fill in our What's on our website: communityadvertiser.co.uk/whatson

by Monday 4th November

|

21

November 2019 | What's On Calendar

Calendar of events Weekly (Also on Monday & Thursday)

Bellsmyre Trust

Also on 15th

Working 4U

Internet Café

9.30-3.30pm. New opportunities. Come along to our drop-ins. 0800 980 9070

CAB Office, Alexandria

FRI: 9.30-11.30am, 1.30-3.30pm; MON:

9.30-11.30am. 10 PCs, fast and reliable wi-fi. Free. 01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk Weekly

The Cutty Sark Centre

Working 4U

10.30am-12pm: Bingo Mornings. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk Weekly

Balloch Library

Baby Yoga/Baby Massage

9.30-12.30pm. New opportunities. Come along to our drop-ins. 0800 980 9070 Weekly

Friday Soup

St Augustine's Community Hall 12-1pm. Maggie and the others in the Friday team would like to welcome you to the Friday soup lunches.

Weekly

Bookbug

Balloch Baby Toddler Playgroup Bonhill Church

9.30-11.30am. FRI & TUE: Playgroup. £5 and kids are left with qualified playleader; MON & THU: Babies and Toddlers. Cost per session: £1 for 0-9 months. £2 for 9-18 months, £3 for 18 months. Weekly

FREE 30 minute sessions for babies, toddlers and their Parents & Carers.

Alexandria Library (01389 608974): FRI: 1.30-2.15pm, MON: 1.30-2.15pm, TUES: 10-10.45am; Balloch Library (01389 608989): WED: 10-10.45am; Dumbarton Library (01389 608992): MON: 10-10.45am, TUES: 6-6.45pm (Bedtime session), WED: 1.30-2.15pm.

Weekly (Term time only)

ACCESS Youth Club for P7 to S6 Lennox Evangelical Church

8pm. Weekly ACCESS Youth Club for P7 to S6. lennoxec@gmail.com Weekly

ALEXANDRIA

Saturday 2nd Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers

Lomond and Clyde Community Orchestra Rehearsals

St Michael's Church Hall, Helensburgh 10-12pm. We have vacancies in all sections. A friendly community orchestra, come along to our rehearsal. No auditions or minimum standards. Percussion provided. Parents with playing children are welcome. Anne Evans 07976 726822

www.lennoxevangelicalchurch.org

First Saturday of every month

Sunday 3rd Farmers' Market

9.30am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. This is a strenuous walk which involves exposed mountainous terrain and is not recommended for inexperienced hill walkers. Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

10am. With fresh and local produce piled high on every stall, free parking, lots to do for kids and families and plenty of local shopping – all in all, a great day out. www.lochlomondshores.com

Loch Lomond Shores

First and third Sunday of month

Balloch Run 'n' Park Balloch Park Gates, Balloch Road 9.30am. Stay in shape & meet new people. runnpark.leaguerepublic.com Weekly

Outdoor Bootcamp Moss o' Balloch

Bellsmyre Trust

The Cutty Sark Centre

10-11am. Meet at the kids' play park.

Outdoor Bootcamp for kids and adults.

Adults: £5, 13-17yrs: £2, 12 and under: free. Get in touch to be added to the bootcamp page.

FB: ptsquared2 Balloch Bootcamp Weekly

10.30am-1pm. Dumbarton Baptist Church. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk

FREE Techjockeys Gaming Club (8-14yrs)

Sunday Meditation Class

Longcrags Centre

4-5.30pm. Guided meditation lessons for inner peace and mindfulness. Beginners welcome. All classes are free. Non profit organisation. Donations welcome (suggested amount: £3).

01436 676024 • FB @MCS072

Longcrags Centre 10am-12pm. Super secure, in-house Minecraft group at Tech Jockeys, plus all of our ultimate gaming gear.

01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk Weekly

Must purchase by November 15th

First Saturday of every month

Ben Donich

FREE Minecraft Breakfast Club (8-14yrs)

for just £20

10-12pm. Chirsty Harkins will entertain. All members are welcome. 07743 752 286

Lennox Evangelical Church 10-11.30am. Time and space where dads, father figures and their children can have fun together. lennoxec@gmail.com

Weekly

Get a 10 class pass

Levenvale Primary School

Who Let the Dads Out?

10am-12pm. Awesome gear! PS4 with VR headset, Gaming PCs with Oculus Rift VR Headset, XboxS1, FIFA 2019 and more!

01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk

Special offer

Levenvale Older People's Welfare

Weekly

Alexandria Library: FRI: 11.30am-12.30pm (Massage), MON: 11am-12pm (Yoga); Dumbarton Library: Mon 1.30-2.30pm (Massage), TUES: 1.30-2.30pm (Yoga), Thurs 11am-12pm (Massage) Weekly

Friday 1st

Longcrags Centre 8-10pm. Join us in fabulous sky gazing experience! See Jupiter and its moons, Saturn and its rings amid a magical carpet of stars. Beginners welcome. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Membership £20 per annum.

Children £10 per annum. 01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk

Friday 1st Longcrags Centre

Astronomy Club

Weekly

Moshi Beads

Antartex Village 11am-4pm. Weekly

Meditation Centre of Scotland

Weekly

Monday 4th Bellsmyre Trust

The Cutty Sark Centre 9.30-11.30am: Little Rascals Toddlers.

6.30-7.30pm: Girls Group. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk Weekly

Professional Group Fitness Studio Excellent Range of Classes 7 days a week Flexible Membership Options or Pay as you go Personal Training Available

01436 675403

hello@chrisbowmanfitness.co.uk www.chrisbowmanfitness.co.uk

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22 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

or email

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What's On Calendar | November 2019 Sporting Memories Club

Family Walking Group

10-12pm. Bringing together older people living with long term conditions, such as dementia, through sporting reminiscence and physical activities. Aiming to improve well-being and reducing loneliness and social isolation.

07393 284406 • maurice@thesmf.co.uk

6pm. Family Walking Group leaving from Unit 1 Leven Valley Enterprise in Castlehill, a walk around the local community then a tea or coffee and biscuit for afters. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

07809 216 568 janice@corra.scot

Longcrags Centre

Weekly

Dumbarton Library

Unit 1 Leven Valley Enterprise

Weekly

FREE CSCS Construction Course – Level 1 9.30am-12pm. Delivered in partnership with West Dunbartonshire Council Employability Team and SQA. All employees on a building site are required to have this qualification. Interested? 01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk

Vale of Leven Army Cadets

ACF Hut, Heather Avenue, Alexandria 6.45-9.15pm. The ACF offers a variety of military-themed activities along with adventurous training and STEM, young people 12-18 yrs.

07894 088911 2456youn@armymail.mod.uk armycadets.com/county/argyll-and-sutherlandhighlanders-battalion-acf

Weekly (Also on Wednesday & Thursday)

Weekly (Also on Thursday)

St Patrick’s Youth Club (P4-P7)

Relaxation Group

Bellsmyre Trust

6.15-7 45pm Activities that we have: ball games (table tennis, basketball, dodgeball, football ), board games, music, computers and internet, Wii, tuck shop, organised parties, outings , group sharing, community services and weekend away. Entrance £1. All are welcome. stpatsyouthg1@btconnect.com

10-11am. £5. Learn deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, simple body awareness and meditation techniques in this small informal group. No experience required, all welcome. Bring your own mat and blanket along 07562 333731 greentreremedies@outlook.com FB: Green Tree Remedies Weekly

3.30-4.30pm: Myre Munchkins.

6-8pm: Cutty Kids. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk

Age Concern Dumbarton

Weekly

Youth Café Nights

Tuesday Soup Spot

The Crosslet Centre, Dumbarton 12-3pm. A local older peoples group, join us and make new friends. Come along and enjoy card making, photographic restoration, keep fit and knitting bee.

Vacancies on our members list for 2019/20.

01389742743 Weekly

The Phoenix, Dumbarton 6-7.15pm: P4-7s; 7.30-9pm: S1-S4s.

50p. Games, crafts, café and space to chill. oli@rockcommunitychurch.org.uk

Over 50s Computer Club

Dumbarton Riverside Church Halls

Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Drop-in Service For anyone affected by cancer

MON: 10.30am-12.30pm: Alexandria

Library. 12-2pm: Dalmuir Library.

TUE: 2-4pm: Balloch Library.

WED: 11am-1pm: Dumbarton Library.

THU: 1-4pm: Clydebank Library. helen.shearer@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Weekly

Longcrags Centre

1.30-3.30pm. This friendly, relaxed group is the perfect place for you if you just need to get a wee bit of confidence with one to one help or if you want to maybe organise your photos, make cards, make spreadsheets etc. Membership £5 per annum. 01389 767115 kmick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk Weekly

Hop, Skip and Jump

Annexe Building, Jamestown Primary School

Weekly

Desta Laiolo Ballet & Theatre School Mondays 4pm – Drymen Village Hall School ages Ballet & Musical Theatre; Tuesdays 4pm – Killearn Church Hall 07900861396 • modestalaiolo@aol.com

Weekly

1st/2nd Dumbarton Boys' Brigade Anchor Section (P1-P3) 6.15-7.15pm.

Junior Section (P4-P6) 7.15-8.45pm.

Company Section (P7-S6) 7.15-9.30pm.

01389 731069 rebeccalyall@btinternet.com Weekly

Dumbarton Army Cadets

ACF Hut, Latta Street, Dumbarton 7-9pm. The ACF offers a variety of military-themed activities along with adventurous training and STEM, young people 12-18 yrs.

07894 088911 2456youn@armymail.mod.uk armycadets.com/county/argyll-and-sutherlandhighlanders-battalion-acf Weekly (Also on Wednesday)

Vale of Leven Walking Football Club Argyll Park, Alexandria

Alternatives, in Quay Street

7.45-9pm. Available for anyone who wants to take part in the beautiful game but at a slower pace. Rules as per 11-a-side or 5-a-side, you are not allowed to run. All abilities and ages welcome. 07814 540035 FB: Vale of Leven Walking Football Club Twitter @lomondwfc. phildawson1335@me.com

6-8pm. Are you affected by someone's misuse of drugs/alcohol?

01389 734500 Weekly

Weekly

Tuesday 5th

Open Mic

Working 4U

Balloch House Hotel

Vale of Leven Library

7pm. Poetry and prose from all genres.

5 minute slots bookable from 6.15pm.

01389 729279

9.30-3.30pm. New opportunities. Come along to our drop-ins.

0800 980 9070

First Monday of every month

Weekly

Weekly

Alternatives Family Support Group

PRINT

DESIGN

FULL COLOUR LITHO, DIGITAL AND WIDE FORMAT PRINTING

www.jjrprint.scot Tel: 01389 763765 Email: info@jjrprint.scot Visit us at: 3 Poplar Road, Dumbarton G82 2RD

The Cutty Sark Centre

Strathleven House

Weekly

Lennox Evangelical Church 12-1.30pm. Free soup and a roll, donations accepted for charity. lennoxec@gmail.com Weekly

Storytime

Free Tablet/Phone Class Longcrags Centre

1.30-3pm. Small classes to help you get to grips with your tablet or phone.

01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk Weekly

Tuesday Afternoon Bridge Club Victoria Halls, Helensburgh

1.30pm. A friendly and informal club for intermediate players. No partners are required. 01436 673362 Weekly

Tuesday Lunches Riverside Church

12pm. Meet friends and enjoy homemade soup and filled rolls. www.dumbartonriverside.org.uk Weekly

Storytime is aimed at children aged three to seven, but may be suitable for slightly older children. Dumbarton Library: Tues 3.30-4.15pm; Alexandria Library: Wed 10.3011.15am. 01389 772137 / 01389 772151 learning.development@west-dunbarton.gov.uk Weekly (Term time only)

Lomond Badminton Club Vale of Leven Academy

6-8pm: Juniors. 8-10pm: Adults. From beginner to competitor, our club can cater for all. We have plenty space for new members. Just turn up at one of our sessions, email or see Facebook.

07740 473247 lomondbc@outlook.com Weekly

KG

L S CA ES LO SIN BU

3-5pm. Hop into Spring with some creative Art sessions. For P4-P7. 50p a session. haldaneyouthservices@hotmail.co.uk

St Patrick’s Church Hall

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Fill in our What's On Form on our website: communityadvertiser.co.uk/whatson |

23

November 2019 | What's On Calendar Young Person’s National Demonstration Project

Calendar of events Chanting & Meditation Class Meditation Centre of Scotland 6-7.15pm. Learn the chanting and meditation methods from the Thai Buddhist Community. Beginners welcome. All classes are free. Non profit organisation. Donations Welcome (Suggested Amount: £3).

01436 676024 FB @MCS072 Weekly

Wednesday 6th Working 4U Housing & Homeless Hub, Mitchell Way 9.30-3.30pm. New opportunities. Come along to our drop-ins.

0800 980 9070 Weekly

Bellsmyre Trust The Cutty Sark Centre

Youth Club St Patrick’s Church Hall P4-P7 6.15-7.45pm; S1 upwards. 8-9.45pm.

For kids from 10 plus. Activities that we have: ball games, board games, music, computers and internet, Wii, tuck shop, organised parties, outings, group sharing, community services and weekend away.

All welcome. £1 entry. stpatsyouthg1@btconnect.com

9.30-11.30am: Little Rascals Toddlers. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk Weekly

Cardross Mother & Toddler Group Cardross Church Hall 10-11.30am. Come join us for coffee and a chat while the wee ones play! 07717 238979 cardrossmotherandtoddlers@gmail.com Weekly

Weekly (Term time only)

Alexandria Quilters

Stretch & Silence Psoas Classes

Alexandria Leisure Centre

The Phoenix Centre Tues 6:30pm & 8pm; Thurs 10:30am; Sun 8-9:15pm. A Stretch & Silence Psoas class relaxes and focuses the mind and creates space, strength and muscle tone in the body. It concentrates on the core muscles of the abdomen and hips and helps open up these areas creating flexibility and releasing pain. It is perfect for those with old injuries and general stiffness and those who need to de-stress and unwind.

Suitable for all abilities.

07786 062 759 • www.psoas.co.uk Weekly

WED: Alexandria Community Centre, 1-2pm THU: Y Sort It, Clydebank, 4-6.30pm FRI: Chest, Heart and Stroke Charity, Dumbarton, 2-5pm. Offers 12-26 year olds one to one support, group support and the opportunity to get involved in designing, developing and testing out a new programme of support for young people affected by alcohol or drugs in the family. Weekly

10am-12pm. New members welcome. Just pop in.

Weekly

Balloch Health Walk Balloch Tourist Information Centre 10.20am. Join us for a free, fun and easy way to get fit and feel better. Simply turn up and join in... All welcome. A great way to meet new people and we usually enjoy a coffee and chat after.

01389 722645 fran.crumley@lochlomond-trossachs.org www.trustinthepark.org/walk-in-the-park Weekly

Free iPad/iPhone Class

Wednesday 6th FREE Computer Class for Absolute Beginners

Weekly

1.30-3.30pm. Do you need help with the basics of computing – Searching the Internet, emails etc.

Then, we can help. Classes will be kept to small numbers so that we can give you one to one support.

01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk

Dumbarton Library

Weekly

Legally Blonde the Musical Victoria Halls

7.30pm; 2pm (Saturday Matinee). A Helensburgh Savoy Musical Theatre Group's production. Tickets £11-£14 (Under 18s £9-£12) are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/helensburghsavoy, 1st Class card shop and on the door prior to performances. helensburghsavoy@gmail.com Runs until 9th November

Thursday 7th Drymen & Croftamie Health Walk Village Square, outside The Winnock Hotel

7pm – Saturday 23rd November 2019

Helensburgh Rugby Club

£5 PER PLAYER Maximum 6 Players Per Team • Single Players Welcome

The fabulous Stewart Maule will be Quizmaster for the evening with lots of fabulous prizes up for grabs

Contact us via Facebook ‘Helensburgh Netball Club’ or email us for more details

HELENSBURGH NETBALL CLUB Email: helensburghnetballclub@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Helensburgh Netball Club Instagram: @helensburghnetballclub Twitter: @HBurghNetball

3-4.30pm. Fun FREE 30-40-minute sessions which include stories, games and activities for parents/carers and their 3-5-year-olds.

Register in your local library. Weekly

Bellsmyre Trust

The Cutty Sark Centre 3.30-4pm: Myre Munchkins. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk Weekly

Wargames + Miniatures Games Store Unit 4, 7 Merkins Avenue

5pm. Our Magic: The Gathering 'Learn Magic' programme. Boys and girls welcome. Including a FREE Introductory starter pack! events@wargamesandminiatures.com Weekly

Writers

Alexandria Library 6pm. Every Thursday writers are invited to meet and share their work.

07922 833472 Weekly

10.20am. Join us for a free, fun and easy way to get fit and feel better. Simply turn up and join in… everyone’s welcome! A great way to meet new people and we usually enjoy a coffee and chat after.

01389 722645 fran.crumley@lochlomond-trossachs.org www.trustinthepark.org/walk-in-the-park

Evening Meditation Class

Weekly

Weekly

Concord Community Centre

WHERE?

1.30-3.30pm. Learn the basics and then how to really enjoy your Apple.

01389 767115 mick.maloney@wwmail.co.uk

Longcrags Centre

Dumbarton Probus Club

WHEN?

Longcrags Centre

Meditation Centre of Scotland 6-7.30pm. Guided meditation course for inner peace and mindfulness. Beginners welcome. All classes are free. Non profit organisation. Donations welcome (Suggested amount: £3).

01436 676024 • FB @MCS072

Dumbarton Music Group

Ben View Resource Centre, Dumbarton

10-11.30am. Like other Probus clubs the purpose of the club is to provide a regular meeting point for retired and semi-retired people. There are regular speakers and visits from some very special guests. Come along and see if it something you may be interested in joining. The Probus is not a fund raising organisation.

01389 753 267 donvick@blueyonder.co.uk

7.30-10pm. £2. Acoustic Folk/Country Jam night. For all ranges and abilities. If you want to come and practice some chords or play through something you have been trying to learn, James and Jim will be around for moral support. Come along and join in for a friendly relaxing jam night. Feel free to bring your own acoustic instrument. Jim 01389 606 552

Weekly

Weekly

Furniture Clinic LEATHER CLEANING & RESTORATION SERVICE

Professional cleaning, repair & restoration service for leather, fabric and wood

BEFORE

•• Leather Leather Cleaning Cleaning •• Leather Leather Repairs Repairs •• Colour Colour Restoration Restoration •• Fabric Fabric Cleaning Cleaning •• Re-Upholstery Re-Upholstery •• Foam Foam Repairs Repairs •• Stitch Stitch Repairs Repairs •• Car Car Retrimming Retrimming •• French French Polishing Polishing

t: 0141 404 0455 m: 07872 113 184 e: glasgow@furnitureclinic.co.uk Find us at www.furnitureclinic.co.uk

Unit 4, 7 Campsie Road, Kirkintilloch G66 1SL

24 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

AFTER

What's On Calendar | November 2019

West Dunbartonshire Leisure Community Sports Programme Ready, Steady, Kick (1.5-3yrs): Concord Community Centre: THU: 3.30-4.15pm.

Alexandria Community Centre: FRI: 1010.45am. Vale of Leven Academy: SAT: 9-9.45am. Dumbarton Academy: SUN: 9.30-10.15am Mini Kickers (3-4yrs): Alexandria

Community Centre: WED: 4-5pm; FRI: 11am-12pm. Dumbarton Academy: WED: 5-6pm. SUN: 10.30-11.30am & 11.30-12.30pm. Vale of Leven Academy: SAT: 10-11am & 11-12pm.

Ready, Steady, Run, Jump, Throw (34yrs): Alexandria Community Centre: TUE: 1.30-2.30pm. Meadow Sports Centre: THU: 6-7pm.

Ready, Steady, Play! (up to 4yrs):

Dumbarton Gymnastics Centre: MON: 1.30-2.30pm.

Ready, Steady, Roll!: Dumbarton

All weekly classes (Term Time Only)

Football: Argyle Park*: MON: 4.306pm (7-14yrs). Alexandria Community Centre: TUE: 4-5pm (5-6yrs), 5-6pm (7-9yrs), 6-7pm (10-14yrs); WED: 5-6pm (5-6yrs). Concord Community Centre: THU: 5.30-6.30pm (5-6yrs), 6.30-7.30pm (7-9yrs). * Outdoor facility

Girls Football (5-12yrs): Alexandria

Community Centre: WED: 6-7pm.

Concord Community Centre: THU: 4.30-5.30pm.

Goalkeeping: Argyll Park: MON: 7-8pm (7-11yrs), 8-9pm (12-16yrs)

Disability Football: Dumbarton

Athletics – Run, Jump & Throw (511yrs): Alexandria Community Centre: MON: 5-6pm. Meadow Sports Centre: THU: 6-7pm.

Badminton (7-12yrs): Dumbarton Academy: TUE: 6-7pm.

Basketball: Alexandria Community Centre: MON: 6-7pm (8-11yrs).

Meadow Sports Centre: THU: 7-8pm (11-16yrs).

Hockey (5-12yrs): Meadow Sports Centre: WED: 6-7pm.

Tennis (5-12yrs): Dumbarton Academy:

TUE: 6-7pm.

01389 757806

Weekly

Contentment

Lennox Evangelical Church 7.30pm. We can all feel discontented with our lives – with what we have, how much we get, what we do and what the future promises. Discover how Jesus Christ helps us experience contentment in our daily lives. 07581197535 • lennoxec@gmail.com Weekly

St Augustine's Church

Disability Gymnastics (5-10yrs):

Vale of Leven Swimming Pool: MON: 10.30-11am, FRI: 11.30-12pm. Meadow Sports Centre: TUE: 10.30-11am, THU: 11-11.30pm.

7-9pm. All levels and non-members welcome. www.meetup.com/lochlomondcameraclub

Gymnastics: Vale of Leven Academy:

Ready, Steady, Splish! (3-18 months):

Ready, Steady, Splash! (18-36 months):

Station Street, Renton

Friday 8th

Pre Gym (4yrs): Dumbarton Gymnastics Centre: THU: 4-5pm. SUN: 10-11am.

Vale of Leven Swimming Pool: MON: 10-10.30am, FRI: 11-11.30am. Meadow Sports Centre: TUE: 10-10.30am, THU: 10.30-11am.

Loch Lomond Camera Club

Academy: WED: 6-7pm (5-12yrs), 7-8pm (13-19yrs).

MON: 5-6pm & 6-7pm (5-7yrs), 7-8pm (8-10yrs). Dumbarton Gymnastics Centre: TUE: 4-5pm & 5-6pm (5-7yrs), 6-7pm (8-10yrs); THU: 5-6pm (5-7yrs), 6-7pm (5-10yrs boys only & 8-10yrs), 7.15-8.15pm (8-10yrs & 11-15yrs); FRI: 4-5pm (5-7yrs); SUN: 1.30-2.30pm (5-7yrs).

Gymnastics Centre: TUE: 10-10.40am (1.5-3yrs), 10.50-11.35am (3-4yrs). THU: 10-10.40am (1.5-3yrs), 10.50-11.35am (3-4yrs). FRI: 1.15-2pm (3-4yrs), 2.102.50pm (1.5-3yrs).

FREE CONSULTANT EVENTS

Dumbarton Acoustic Music Night 7.30-10.30pm. £5 entry, BYOB and glass.

Local acts Westport, Salud, Toast, Joe Murdoch and more will be performing on the night. Money raised from the night will be donated to a local charity. Tickets available from Discography Records, Bell Arcade Market or pay at door.

07787 310 391 www.facebook.com/ DumbartonAcousticMusicNight

Dumbarton Gymnastics Centre: SUN: 11-12pm.

Adult Classes (16+)

Tuesday 19th Free Varicose Veins Information Session Nuffield Health Glasgow Giffnock Fitness & Wellbeing Gym, 82 Braidholm Road, Glasgow G46 6ED 6.30-8pm. Do you suffer from Varicose Veins and would like to find out more information about the treatment options available?

Tuesday 26th Free Hip and Knee Pain Information Event with Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery

Nuffield Health Glasgow Central Fitness & Wellbeing Gym, 141 Finnieston Street, Glasgow G3 8HB 7-8.30pm. Do you suffer from hip and knee pain and would like to find out more to help you make an informed decision?

Thursday 28th Free Cataract one-to-one

Nuffield Health Glasgow Hospital, Beaconsfield Road, Glasgow G12 0PJ 9-10am. Are you suffering from cataracts or like to explore further options for treatment? Come along to our free ten minute 1-2-1 appointment.

Although these events do not replace a full consultation you will have the chance to meet the consultant and ask any specific questions in a private setting. Booking Essential: 0330 134

6841 • www.nuffieldhealth.com/ hospitals/events

Badminton:

Meadow Centre: WED: 8-9pm.

Jog Scotland:

Concord Community Centre: TUE: 6.30pm. Alexandria Community Centre: THU: 6:30pm.

Netball:

Meadow Centre: WED: 7-8pm.

Swimming: Vale of Leven Swimming Pool: WED: 8-8.45pm.

Walking Football:

DUMBARTON

PEOPLE’S THEATRE PRESENTS

Concord Community Centre: MON: 6-7pm (40+). Alexandria Community Centre: TUE: 3-4pm (18+ with additional support needs); THU: 7.30-8.30pm (40+)

www.wdleisure.net

Ben View Antiques aim is to bring affordable good quality antiques and retro furniture to our customers at realistic prices. We want our furniture to be used in the future as much as it was in the past.

07810 471766 | benviewantiques@btinternet.com Unit 3, Lomond Galleries, Alexandria G83 0UG

DUMBARTON PEOPLE’S THEATRE (DPT)

DENNY CIVIC THEATRE, DUMBARTON – 7TH AND 9TH TO 14TH DECEMBER 2019

Doors: 7pm | Curtain: 7.30pm Tickets £5. Available for sale to public at McDermid’s Keystore from 9th November

Fill in our What's On Form on our website: communityadvertiser.co.uk/whatson |

25

November 2019 | What's On Calendar

Calendar of events Saturday 9th

Sunday 10th

Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers

Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers

Carman Reservoir

9.30am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. Walk to the entrance of Dalmoak House and a gentle climb towards Dick's pond, then head towards the reservoir and descend by Kipperoch Road to Cardross and a short walk by the railway before returning to Dalreoch by bus. Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

Friday 22nd

Monday 25th

Townswomen’s Guild

Bellsmyre Trust

Alexandria Community Facility 7.30pm. The topic this month will be ‘Retirement Versus Work ‘ The Speaker will be Andrew Lockhart.

Saturday 23rd

Binnein an Fhìdhleir (Glen Kinglas) 9.30am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. This is a strenuous walk which involves exposed mountainous terrain and is not recommended for inexperienced hill walkers. Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

Remembrance Sunday On this day people across the nation pause to reflect on the sacrifice made by our brave service men and women.

Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers Dubhchraig Forest Walk

9am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. A walk through Gleann Auchreoch along the banks of the Alt Gleann Auchreoch on the lower slopes of Beinn Dubhchraig, taking in a section of pine forest before descending through an area of birch and Scots Pine. Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

Tuesday 12th Dumbarton Lions Club Abbotsford Hotel 7.30pm. Local fundraising club. New members welcome. 01389 763592 Second Tuesday of the month

Saturday 9th A Night with Heelster Gowdie

Dumbarton’s Denny Civic Theatre 7.30pm. £5. The name means “Head over Heels”, and the music style is traditionally Scottish – the original inspiration was the Corries – but this band (and support) are said to have a sound and style all their own. In aid of the Nora Docherty Charitable Foundation. marywheeler37@gmail.com

Saturday 16th

Second Chance Coffee Morning

Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers Glen Fruin Local Walk 10am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. Walk up Colquhoun Street, then follow the Helensburgh Upper Way and over the hill into Glen Fruin. Return to Helensburgh via Glen Fruin road and Old Luss Road (a path). Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

The Cutty Sark Centre 6.30-7:30pm. Monthly book club. www.bellsmyretrust.org.uk Last Monday of every month

Tuesday 26th Age Concern Dumbarton The Crosslet Centre, Dumbarton 11.30-3pm. Monthly meeting.

01389742743 Last Tuesday of every month

Saturday 30th Helensburgh and West Dunbartonshire Ramblers Glen Fruin to Garelochhead 9.30am. Meet at Helensburgh Swimming Pool Car Park. Follow The Three Lochs Way route, across Glen Fruin and then taking The Yankee Road to Garelochhead.

Return to Helensburgh by bus from Garelochhead. Sorry, no dogs except registered assistance dogs.

01389 731953 mather.joyce@gmail.com

Sunday 1st December

Renton Trinity Church

9th Annual Festive Training Run

11am. Coffee Morning with a difference Up-cycled gifts and Christmas decorations, Cake and Candy - Tombola. Come and join us. 01389 609329

9.30am. Half marathon from Dumbarton to Anniesland. surfaceplus@gmail.com mauricedonohue@btinternet.com

Meadow Sports Centre,

Submit your What's On information at www.communityadvertiser.co.uk

December deadline: Monday 4th November

0141 392 0627 26 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

Local News | November 2019

LIGHTS SAY ‘IT’S CHRISTMAS’! and if you’re really keen you could even visit both.

A TALE OF ELEPHANTS AND CASTLES

We’re talking here of the Christmas lights switch-on, which will be in Alexandria on Saturday, November 23 and Dumbarton on Sunday, November 24, two dates which have all the makings of a great family weekend out.

In each case the lights go on at 5.30pm, but you can make a whole afternoon of it by enjoying the fun and games laid on for the occasion from 1.30pm.

Santa Claus is coming to town – and everyone’s invited to meet the great man in person and get set to enjoy a Christmas to remember.

No sooner is this month’s Guy Fawkes Night done and dusted than the heavy pre-festive advertising begins in earnest, but in time-honoured fashion the real “official” start to the big winter break is a purely local phenomenon.

Santa has a crowded itinerary to complete, and working time regulations mean his elves can only put in so many hours at that big toy factory at the North Pole

– elf and safety rules are not to be taken lightly.

But the famous red-suited celebrity philanthropist has been a frequent flier to the Burgh and Alexandria in previous years – and he’s no intention of letting down local children during the most wonderful time of the year.

So with the help of West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust two very promising events are scheduled for later this month,

The crowds will be entertained by talented local acts, a family funfair and surprise giveaways throughout the day.

Children can also meet Santa in his grotto, have their picture taken with him, and hand-deliver their letters to him too.

We don’t know what the music offer will include this time around, but mums and dads with fond memories of the swinging 70’s probably won’t be too astonished if Noddy Holder and friends aren’t belting out their best-known tune at some stage in the proceedings.

Just remember to wrap up warm!

This month’s Drymen and District Local History Society talk will be given by Mugdock Park country park ranger Alan McBride, on the intriguing theme “The Elephant, the Marquis and the Castle”.

The talk promises to reveal some of the fascinating facts of East Dunbartonshire heritage lore that anyone with an interest in the county will find interesting.

The session is on Thursday, November 28, and is at 7.45pm in Drymen Village Hall.

For more details of the busy and always interesting winter programme run by the Society visit their website at www. drymen-history.org.uk.

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Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 27

November 2019 | Local News

hacks THE BRUCE AS OUTLAW KING This month’s Lennox Heritage Society lecture plunges its audience straight OUCH! into the gory mayhem of the Scottish Wars of Independence, starring THAT’S HOT Robert the Bruce.

Sparklers burn at 15 x the boiling point of water?! That’s 1,500 degrees! Always hold sparklers at arm’s length and wear gloves when handling them. Once the sparklers are out make sure you put them in a bucket of water.

fun COOK’S NEW RECIPE Fireworks were invented by accident. In the 10th century, a Chinese cook accidentally mixed three common cooking ingredients (sulphur, charcoal and a salt substitute) and set it alight, which resulted in colourful flames.

As speaker James Scullion will explain, Sir William Wallace is dead, the erstwhile complaisant Robert Bruce has stabbed to death his key rival in a church – and defied the King of England by having himself emergency-crowned King of Scotland.

That is just the opener for what could be argued to be the most tempestuous period in Scottish history, when the concept of nationality was still fairly hazy and when political disputes tended to be settled with battle-axe, spear and longbow.

The talk on Wednesday, November 20 deals specifically with the most dangerous and difficult years for the king-turned-fugitive, mocked as “Hob of the Moors” as Edward’s lieutenants – and plenty of Scottish enemies – hunted him across Scotland.

Exactly how the future King Robert I managed to turn the shocking odds against success into painfullywon but conclusive victory is rightly

regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in history.

What is perhaps less well-known is the crucial importance of the Lennox, and by extension the Inner Hebrides, to the Outlaw King’s story – because it was through a network of reliable allies that Bruce was able to escape pursuit, fight off and defeat Scottish enemies, and ultimately to repel the occupation army of Edward I’s luckless successor.

Bannockburn was a major milestone in the struggle to

free Scotland from Plantagenet oppression, but arguably more important was the small but hugely significant victory won several years earlier at Loudon Hill – where the forces of “Proud Edward” blundered into a carefully-prepared trap.

It is a complex but never dull tale, and the local context is particularly fascinating.

Society meetings are at 7pm in the Concord Centre in Dumbarton, and annual subscription is £10 – or you can pay £2 for a single talk.

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Local Business | November 2019

Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 29

November 2019 | Nightlife

Enjoy testing the old grey matter at a quiz? Tickling your tonsils at karaoke or hitting the dance floor? We have the list to inspire you.

AL E XA N DRI A Dempsey’s Bar

1 Hillview Place, 01389 757988  THU: Poker Night (8pm)  FRI: Bingo Night (8pm)

The Laughing Fox

119 Bridge St, 01389 750746  Live Sports  Beer Garden

Station Bar 140 Bank St, 01389 752504  Pool table, jukebox, sports TV screen

B AL LO C H Club Desire Balloch Rd, 01389 729002  Contact for entertainment details

Corries Restaurant

Balloch Road, 01389 753 552  MON: Folk Club  THU: Music with Angus

The Doghouse Bar

54 Balloch Rd, 01389 607300  THU: Live Football  Open Mic  Karaoke  Live Football

Lomond Park Hotel

Balloch Rd, 01389 752494  THU: Quiz  FRI & SUN: Karaoke  SAT: Live Band  Live Sports

Kerbside Night Club Balloch Rd, 01389 752494  Contact for entertainment details

The Glenroy Balloch Rd, 01389 752494  THU: Pub Quiz  FRI & SUN: Karaoke  Live Sports  Live Music

DRYMEN

The Counting House

17 High St, 01389 765457  THU: Pub Quiz  FRI & SAT: DJ  Beer Garden  Live Sports

The Dumbuck House Hotel

Main Street, 01360 660 588  Chic atmosphere for wining & dining

Glasgow Road, 01389 734 336  Live Sports  Live Music  Family Days  Tribute Nights  Pool Table  Beer Garden  Food Served All Day

The Clachan

The Glencairn Lounge

The Buchanan Arms

Main Street, 01360 660824  SAT: Live music  Open 11am-Midnight

15-19 Bridge St, 01389 732816  FRI: Quiz  SAT: Karaoke

The Drymen Inn

The Stag’s Head

5 Stirling Road, Drymen, 01360 660123  WED: Quiz Night  SAT: Live Music  SUN: Live Entertainment

The Waverley Bar

The Winnock The Square, 01360 660245  Variety themed nights

DU MBARTON Cheers 1 Brewery Lane, 01389 742333  FRI & SAT: DJ Clubnights

116 Glasgow Rd, 01389 732642  FRI: Karaoke  Live Music  Live Sports 30 West Bridgend, Dumbarton  Live Music  Live Sports  Beer Garden  Karaoke

JA M E STOWN Fenton’s Bar 174 Main Street, 01389 602564  WED: Pub Quiz & Pool Competition  THU: Jam / Open Mic

Commercial & Domestic Cleaners

LOC H LOM O ND Drovers Inn Inverarnan, 01301 704234  SAT 2: Andy McBride  SAT 9: Davie Mac  SAT 16: Hell For Leather  FRI 23: Stuart MacFarlane  SAT 30: The Minogue Brothers

The Inn on Loch Lomond Luss, 01436 860430  FRI 1: On The Wagon  SAT 2: Paul Murdoch  FRI 8: Scott MacDonald  SAT 9: Joe Quinn  FRI 15: Damien Swail  SAT 16: On The Wagon  FRI 22: On The Wagon  SAT 23: Robert Carmichael  FRI 29: Robert Carmichael  SAT 30: Jenny Biddle

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Local News | November 2019

GREEN LIGHT FOR MARINE PARK fun opportunities just minutes’ drive from home for people with the requisite skills.

Major milestone in plans to create a marine manufacturing hub

This month’s big West Dunbartonshire employment news is the recently-won planning consent for a marine industry park reckoned set to create 1,000 jobs.

It’s in Old Kilpatrick, virtually next door to Dumbarton and surrounding townships, and has been described as a major milestone in plans to create a marine manufacturing hub in an area still regularly described as an unemployment black spot.

The permission is for phase one of a project run by the Malin Group, which may soon become one of the Dumbarton and wider area’s best known employers – and will involve moving the Group’s

fabrication wing from Renfrew, forming an anchor for the overall scheme.

The site covers 47 acres, and while now derelict previously played host to the Carless oil storage depot, and in the years ahead it is clearly set to undergo a dramatic transformation.

Besides jobs it will offer across Clydeside the scheme’s local impact could be great, spawning ancillary endeavours that will bring the potential of new job

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The Malin Group has welcomed planning permission as evidence of showing the council is on board with the concept of bringing industry of this kind back to the Clyde – in this case bringing “exciting structures for the marine environment”.

The development is also predicted likely to become a centre of excellence for marine engineering, creating a hive of enterprise around which other potential employers may congregate.

The infrastructure which will be put in place will create a base for companies able to use the area’s prime Clydeside location to develop further projects – and jobs potential.

Fireworks arrived in Europe in the 14th century and were first produced by the Italians. The first recorded display was in Florence. The first recorded fireworks in England were at the wedding of King Henry VII in 1486.

hacks STAY SAFE OUT THERE

Always follow the instructions when using fireworks and if it is dark always read them by torchlight and never by a naked flame. Ensure you only buy fireworks from reputable retailers.

LOCAL HELENSBURGH RESIDENT WINS CUSTOMER CARE AWARD WITH BOOTS OPTICIANS At Boots Opticians Helensburgh they have a genuine passion for delivering outstanding customer care.

One of their colleagues, Alistair Crichton has won a prestigious customer care award for Scotland and is through to the national final of the Boots Best of the Best awards.

Alistair has been with Boots from when it first opened in 2015.

His knowledge and skills are exceptional. He has extensive experience in the optical industry, but what really makes Alistair stand out is the warmth and genuine care he has for his patients.

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In the short term the construction phase alone will create hundreds of temporary jobs, as the project’s foundations are laid for a resource which will feature a deep water jetty boasting a 1,100-tonne ship hoist, reportedly the largest of its kind in Scotland.

BRIGHTENING UP THE MIDDLE AGES

Boots Opticians Helensburgh Team

state of the art technology and testing equipment and are proud to look after the local community.

This is the second time that this store has been nominated for an award as they were previously runner up in the company for store of the year. Which is a tribute to the teams combined customer care.

The practice has four experienced Optometrists who have been with Boots Opticians for many years.

They, like Alistair, put customer care at the heart of everything they do.

Over the years these Optometrists have detected serious eye conditions that have resulted in saving the sight, and in some cases the lives, of their patients, highlighting the importance of regular eye checks.

They have one of the best ranges of frames in the town, from their fashionable Boots own range to exclusive designers. They also have

Pop in and Alistair and the rest of the friendly team will happily show you round and offer you advice on your eye care needs.

9 West Princes St, Helensburgh G84 8TF • 01436 670157 • boots.com

Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 31

November 2019 | Local News

BABCOCK CONTINUE SPONSORSHIP OF 10K SERIES FOR 2020 Babcock has confirmed its sponsorship of the Babcock 10k Series for a fourth year, having taken over from the original sponsors Polaroid in 2017.

The series has grown steadily from around 1,500 runners in 2017 to 1,800 runners last year and 2,100 runners this year.

The dates and venues for 2020 are: • Babcock Helensburgh 10k, Thursday 7th May, 7.30pm • Babcock Dumbarton 10k, Thursday 14th May, 7.30pm • Babcock Shettleston 10k, Sunday 31st May, 10.00am

Start Fitness and their more Mile brand will be the running retail partner again. There will be more than £6,000 worth of prizes for the leading finishers, category winners and teams.

More than £2,000 of this will be in cash prizes for the elite athletes.

Finishers in each race will receive a unique commemorative medal, goody bag containing More Mile running accessories. There

will also be generous spot prizes spread throughout the field in each race.

series was a great success and I’m sure that 2020 is going to be even better.“

Babcock’s Managing Director at HMNB Clyde, Gavin Leckie joined Team Clyde for two of the three races and was impressed with how much the Babcock 10k Series has become part of community life. Gavin said “We are delighted to be involved in the race series again this year and are looking forward to signing up Team Clyde again and getting back into training. I was happy to see so many members of the local communities coming out to enjoy themselves running or spectating.’ The 2019 race

Entries are now open at entrycentral.co.uk. There is an ‘early bird discount’ of £10.00 off the series entry until the end of October or the first 200 series entries. This reduces the cost from £45.00 and £51.00 to £35.00 and £41.00 for affiliated and unaffiliated runners. Individual races are £21.00 and £23.00 respectively. Series entrants will receive a special Babcock 10k Series technical t-shirt designed

by Helensburgh AAC runner and local artist Stuart Scott.

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Visit our website at: communityadvertiser.co.uk | 33 www.a1roadsurfacingltd.co.uk

November 2019 | Local News

WINNOCK’S WINNING WAYS

FESTIVE FAIR CHARITY BOOST Organisers of a popular festive fair are hoping to raise even more funds for a charitable school close to their hearts.

Congratulations to the Winnock Hotel at Drymen, which recently punched well above its weight to win the prestigious Hotel of the Year (Central) award at the Hotel Awards Scotland.

It is a stunning success for the hotel in what was a crowded field, and one which will hopefully alert many more customers to the attractions of a get-away-from-it-all venue which has proved it has something beyond the average to offer.

The awards were presented in front of scores of representatives from the country’s top hotels at a glittering ceremony in Glasgow’s Marriott Hotel, where its success was hailed as a brilliant achievement by all concerned.

The Luss Advent Fair is being run by Luss Estates, owned by Sir Malcolm & Lady Colquhoun, in partnership the village’s Loch Lomond Arms Hotel. Many local businesses support the event.

Taking place on November 24, from 11am to 4pm, the fair provides a funds booster for St George’s Ethiopia, a school founded by the Colquhouns to provide free education, school meals, uniforms and health checks to local children in Gondar province.

Last year, the event raised more than £2000 for the African school appeal and this year they will be hoping to collect more.

The Advent Fair is held at the hotel and is free to attend. There will be 30 stalls selling local crafts, decorations, gifts and Christmas dinner treats, as well as food and drink offerings, including a winter BBQ. Helensburgh Flowers will be leading a wreath-making workshop (cost is £25) and there will be craft activities for children.

In addition, customers can enjoy live music, a tombola organised

by Luss Women’s Institute, a homebaking stand by the Luss Church Guild and a luxury raffle, which includes hampers of items donated by every stallholder.

Charity funds will be raised through the raffle, as well as by money paid by stallholders for their tables, the children’s crafts activities and the cost for the space for the wreathmaking workshops.

In addition, Loch Lomond Arms Hotel lends two function rooms for free, as well as “donating” staff to support the event.

One of the organisers, Claire Ross, said: “We love doing Luss Advent Fair and there will something for everyone. It’s a great way to kick off the festive season.”

See lussestates.co.uk and lochlomondarmshotel.com.

ADVERTISER’S INDEX Company Name

PROFESSIONAL

GUTTER

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Local company, friendly staff

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01436 679994

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A.D.S Motors............................................................2 A1 Road Surfacing..........................................4 & 33 Abbotsford House.................................................14 Access 4 Lofts Glasgow North...............................26 Alan Robinson Domestic Appliance.......................6 Amk Self Drive.......................................................10 Andrew Steele Decorator ....................................28 Antartex Shopping Village...................................18 Ardardan Estate.......................................................8 Baltic Firewood Company ....................................12 Beacon Arts Centre................................................29 Ben View Antiques................................................25 Blind Cleaning..........................................................4 Bonhill Chippy........................................................11 Boots Opticians......................................................31 Bridge Street Dental Practice..................................7 Brooke & Bros..........................................................6 Buchanan Castle Golf Club...................................16 Caledonia Property Letting & Estate Agent........27 Caledonian Wood Fuels........................................22 Cheaper Car Insurance............................................1 Chris Bowman Fitness Ltd.....................................22 Church Dental Practice............................................1 Cleanfast Carpets...................................................32 Cloudy2Clear Glasgow Ltd......................................9 Clydeside Domestics ...............................................3 CMC Home Improvements......................................3 David Wilson Handyman.........................................8 Day'zee Chain Counselling Services.....................12 DC Cairney..............................................................10 Delivery staff............................................................7 Denny Theatre.......................................................25 DF Plumbing Services...............................................5 Domestic Solutions..................................................2 Donnie Dallas.........................................................10 Dumbarton Foot Clinic............................................3 Dunbartonshire Property Buyers..........................15 E S Fencing...............................................................8 Easy As One Two Tree..............................................2 Energie Fitness Dumbarton..................................20 Ferguson Flooring Scotland Ltd............................36 Fmk Flooring..........................................................17 Forbes Handyman Services......................................7 Furniture Clinic ......................................................24 Gas-Aid.Co.Uk........................................................31

34 | To advertise call Darren or Debbie now on 01389 717035

Company Name

Page

GC Electrical.............................................................1 Haveli Family Buffet Restaurant ..........................18 Helensburgh Netball.............................................24 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms...............................35 J & J Garage Doors...................................................7 James Burns Joiners & Builders...............................5 Jamie Hamilton Plumbing.....................................12 JGS Plumbing & Heating.........................................7 JJR Print..................................................................23 Joans Carers..............................................................2 John Dobbin.............................................................2 John Macaulay Landscapes.....................................4 JRM Heating...........................................................11 Keys Galore..............................................................2 KG Gas Services .....................................................23 Lennox Landscapes................................................13 Loch Lomond Gift House......................................19 Lomond Electrical Services....................................11 Lomond Park Hotel..................................................5 Lomond Sheds........................................................10 Mackinnon Fencing...............................................13 McGregor Aerials.....................................................7 McKenzie Vets........................................................12 Night &Day ..............................................................4 Preston Fleming.......................................................1 R&D Loft Ladders Ltd............................................11 Realseal Roofing......................................................3 Rowed to nowhere triumph...................................5 Sassy School of Burlesque ....................................31 Scratch 2 Shine.........................................................4 Sorbus Tree Services...............................................10 Sovereign Blinds......................................................5 Sparkle....................................................................10 Still Removals...........................................................6 Stobo Castle...........................................................19 The Doors Group Limited........................................6 The Handyman Home Improvement Centre.........9 The Winter Festival................................................13 The Witches Hut......................................................1 Thermaseal...............................................................1 Thistle Blinds............................................................6 Tyresavers...............................................................11 Van Driver Removals................................................6 Windows & Conservatory Repair Company..........3

GREENOCK SHOWROOM COMING SOON

Kitchens &s Bathroom

Kitchens & Bathrooms

£1995 Guaranteed to beat any quote Supplied &

Fitted

to suit With ranges all budgets

 Boiler Replacement and Installation  New UPVC Window and Doors

FREE

Electric Oven, Hob & Extractor Fan OR Electric Shower, Luxury Screen, Tiling

LIMITED STOCK

For an unbeatable quote call

0141 889 3221 | www.instyle.scot Showrooms open 7 days: Monday – Friday: 10am – 7pm, Saturday: 10am – 5pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm | Phone lines 7 days 10am – 7pm 1B Greenock Road, Paisley PA3 2LB | 4 Castle Terrace, Bridge of Weir PA11 3EF

Inspired by nature.

Designed for living.

Lifetime guarantee View the full range in store:

Ferguson Flooring (Scotland) Ltd 8 Ash Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton, G82 2RS 01389 298349 | www.fergusonflooring.com Featured floor: Glacier Oak RL21

Available in a wide range of designs, colours, textures and formats Can be personalised with designs strips or complementary borders