Dunbartonshire InCommerce Issue 12

THE DUnBARTOnSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSInESS MAGAZInE

John Corcoran MBE ...for services to business

• NEW BENEFITS PACKAGE • THOMAS MUIR FESTIVAL • PRESTIGE CHAMBER EVENT Competition...

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ISSUE 12 • SUMMER 2011

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Contents From the Editor ........................ 4 Economic Gold for Business ...... 4 Major New Chamber Benefits .... 5 News in Brief......................... 6-8

welcome EXCITING TIME FOR CHAMBER

Honour for John Corcoran ....................... 11 Money Matters ....................... 12 Legal Matters ......................... 13 Chamber Events ..................... 15 Lord McFall Steps Down From SrC ..................... 16 75th Birthday Celebrations ...... 18 Circle Insurance Services ........ 19

I can’t believe it is six months since I was appointed your interim chief executive.

In this relatively short period of time, we have carried out a complete board restructuring, introduced a new range of member benefits, revamped the third Thursday event format, introduced an additional monthly networking evening, and launched a patron’s sponsorship package in addition to a programme helping larger companies deliver their corporate social responsibilities.

Definitely a busy period – one which has laid the foundation for a more prosperous chamber, which will deliver a range of services that are vital to support and develop local businesses through these tough trading conditions and beyond.

Each board member has been empowered with a range of clearly defined responsibilities and, as a result, we are now able to provide members with a higher level of service.

In line with the majority of other chambers, we now offer a significantly enhanced members benefits package.

Legal expenses cover protects members against unexpected legal fees and financial penalties and includes access to a 24/7 helpline. Chamber HR is a human resource service delivered via a comprehensive bespoke website backed by a dedicated HR advice line.

Another valuable benefit is access to a Chamber Primary Health Plan for you and your employees. There are four levels of cover with the cost starting from as little as £1.10 per person, per week. There is no requirement to complete a medical to join and cover is immediate.

The Third Thursday event now has a lunchtime slot and will be held at a destination venue to increase the appeal to members. A monthly network evening will be hosted at a local hotel or restaurant where members can enjoy a relaxing evening sharing experiences and contacts in an informal environment. If you would like to host an event please contact our admin team.

There is an exciting opportunity to invest in becoming a recognised patron of the chamber via our new sponsorship programme. It is sector exclusive and available on a first come first serve basis. Contact me now to gain an edge on your competitors.

Finally, I’m sure I speak on behalf of all members when I express my most sincere congratulations to John Corcoran who has been awarded an MBE. I can’t think of anyone more deserving or fitting to receive such an honour – well done John!

Aggreko Powers Ahead .......... 19 Priorities for Business.......... 22-23 Fire Safety ......................... 24-25 The Carrick Golf Course .... 28-30 Thomas Muir Festival ......... 34-36 Milngavie Investment Plan ....... 37 Charity Fundraiser .................. 38 Kirky 800 Celebrations ........... 38 Charlie’s Bar Unveiled ....... 40-41 UK First for Golden Jubilee ..... 41 Outdoor Adventure ................ 42 Crime Supper Anyone? ........... 45 YED Awards Magic ................. 46 Carleith Primary Achievement .. 46 Apprentice of the Year ............. 48 Airport rail Link Support ......... 48 Top Sports Psychologist Event ... 50 New Chamber Events Strategy ....................... 50 Events Diary ........................... 51 New Members................... 52-54 Cover photo of John Corcoran at Strathleven House

by Neil Petrie of Green Highlander Images. www.greenhighlanderimages.co.uk

For advertising contact D-Tech: T: 01389 736000 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial contact editor: June Hyslop T: 07944 265126 E: editor@incommerce.biz Publisher: Mark Ferguson Distribution: D-Tech Distribution INCOMMERCE is published by D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd., Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 2RE. Telephone 01389 736000. Fax 01389 736002.

E-mail: info@dtechuk.com.

Gordon Barraclough Chief Executive Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce www.dunbartonshirechamber.com www.incommerce.biz

Edited by June Hyslop, Copywrite Editorial, Dumbarton.

Telephone 07944 265126.

E-mail: editor@incommerce.biz.

INCOMMERCE is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed nor copied wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein.

They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information contained within this publication.

The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd or Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

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Photo courtesy of Alison Walker

FrOM THE

EDITOR WELCOME to the bumper 56 page summer issue of InCommerce. I know it’s been a bit of a wait but I hope you will agree it was worth it.

These are exciting times for the chamber and for its members.

A lot has been happening behind the scenes and it is only now that the board is able to tell you about it.

Your chamber is now a member of Scottish Chambers of Commerce and is affiliated to the British Chambers of Commerce. This brings a welcome new range of benefits which I am sure will be of immense value. In fact, these will far outweigh the cost of membership and make joining the chamber a business essential.

You can read all about these new developments which directly affect you on page five.

In this issue, the magazine has been revamped as part of an ongoing process of improvement. The membership pages have been redesigned so you can now find out about businesses which have recently joined the chamber and what they do on pages 52 to 54.

Most of you will know that former chief executive John Corcoran was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to business. John has worked tirelessly for this chamber

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for many years and this recognition is well deserved.

His story is on page 11.

Since the last InCommerce, elections to the Scottish Parliament in May ushered in a majority SNP government for the first time. Find out what your MSPs have to say about their priorities for business on pages 22 and 23.

There’s a lot going on in East Dunbartonshire with the 800th anniversary of Kirkintilloch becoming a Barony Burgh in October plus the recent success of the first Thomas Muir Festival celebrating the Scottish lawyer and reformer. Organiser Jimmy Watson must be applauded for his drive and ambition in taking this forward and ensuring that a real local hero is not forgotten.

In Milngavie, local businesses have seized the initiative and plan to promote and develop their town by setting up a Business Improvement District while the town’s book and arts festival in September goes from strength to strength.

It seems to me that all of the above is about people making things happen to benefit organisations, their communities and, in some cases, the wider world. More power to their elbow I say.

June Hyslop

Economic Gold for Business FORMER BBC Scotland sports presenter Alison Walker recently hosted a special event focussing on the economic opportunities for Scottish businesses as a result of the UK hosting the Olympic and Commonwealth Games writes Mike Haggerty.

The Economic Gold Dust event organised by Scottish Enterprise in Glasgow highlighted the huge procurement and business opportunities offered by London 2012 and Glasgow 2014.

A high-level guest panel included John Scott, CEO of Glasgow 2014; Councillor Archie Graham, who leads Glasgow City Council’s Commonwealth Games activities and Richard Beail, Nations and Regions Manager for London Olympic organisers LOCOG. A sell-out audience of around 400 heard Dunbartonshirebased Alison say the key message was that Scottish companies can bid for a slice of the games action, especially for London.

She said it was still not too late for businesses to get involved in bidding for an Olympic contract – and that they shouldn’t assume only London companies will win business adding: “If you don’t manage to gain a contract from London, at least you’ll know what to do for Glasgow.”

Asked about the audience reaction, Alison said: “I think a lot of people had their eyes opened and they were surprised at the variety in the contracts, products and services that would be available.

“There is no point in thinking your company doesn’t have the right products or services, because no matter what, it might.”

Scottish Enterprise has a wealth of information and advice for businesses on procurement arrangements for Glasgow 2014 at www2.glasgow2014.com/ BusinessPortal.

Major New Benefits For Chamber Members

by Gordon Barraclough

I AM absolutely delighted to report that Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce has secured an enhanced benefits package for members.

We have become full members of Scottish Chambers of Commerce and are affiliated to British Chambers of Commerce.

Members can now access valuable professional resources and, because these benefits are negotiated at a national level, they provide a high level of cover at an extremely competitive premium, the cost of which will be included in your chamber membership from 1 October 2011.

Here’s a summary of what will be included as standard with your chamber membership from your renewal date*: Chamber HR is a comprehensive human resource service delivered through the Chamber HR website and a dedicated human resource advice line.

Chamber Legal Expenses is there to protect members against unexpected legal fees and financial penalties. This essential benefit includes access to a 24/7 legal advice line. Your business is also protected with up to £670,000 of indemnity per annum to cover the professional fees of a solicitor or consultant to represent your business in the areas covered by the policy.

Chamber Primary Health Plan is for you and your employees starting from as little as £1.10 per person, per week. This covers 10 different healthcare benefits and services, including money back towards everyday optical, dental and other treatments, like physiotherapy, osteopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic and homeopathy as well as giving access to various diagnostic scanning procedures. * Except for schools and charities with concessionary membership in the not-for-profit category.

Chamber H&S is a facility that permits downloads of the most up-to-date health and safety documents with an option to upgrade to a more extensive level of cover.

Our affiliation with the British Chambers of Commerce was achieved by working in collaboration with Renfrewshire Chamber (RCC). As a member of Dunbartonshire chamber you can attend any RCC events.You can also take advantage of RCC’s full range of benefits including their export documentation service. Access to the business mentoring programme run by RCC on behalf of Scottish Chambers will be maintained.

The additional cost of these benefits means we will have to increase annual subscription levels over the various categories of membership. See the table below for details.

Once you have had the opportunity to see the full extent of these exciting new benefits, I am sure you will agree that our new offering represents fantastic value for money and a significant saving on the cost of buying this level of cover anywhere else. As the Americans say – a ‘no brainer’. www.britishchambers.org.uk

Membership subscriptions for renewals from 1st October 2011.

Not for Profit: Charity / School 1 - 5 employees 6 - 20 employees 21 - 50 employees 51 - 100 employees 100+ employees

Membership Category NFP

New Fee Excl. VAT £40.00

VAT@ 20% £8.00

Total Fee Incl. VAT £48.00

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news in brief…

Photo courtesy of NHS National Waiting Times Centre.

TOP VENUE: The Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre.

Masked Charity Ball BEARSDEN accountants Abercrombie Gemmell celebrate their 20th anniversary with a fabulous masked ball in aid of Erskine.

Champagne will be served on arrival at Oran Mor in Glasgow’s West End followed by a three course meal and ceilidh on Friday 2 September. Tickets cost £75 and can be purchased individually or as tables of 10 for £750 from katie@agca.co.uk. The dress code is black tie.

Tickets will be entered into a prize draw to win a fourball at one of Marriott’s golf courses throughout the UK and there’s also a prize draw for a chance to win a weekend break for two.

Client services manager Katie Shepherd said: “Abercrombie Gemmell is delighted to celebrate with a masked ball that will also raise awareness and money for a great cause. We hope you can join us to celebrate on the evening.” www.agca.co.uk 6

Beardmore Wins Conference Hotel of the Year THE Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre won another top accolade at a prestigious industry award ceremony.

The Conference Hotel of the Year 2011 prize was handed at an event which was attended by hotel teams from across Scotland.

The Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre took the prestigious title at the eighth annual Scottish Hotel Awards.

The winners were chosen following inspections, interviews, consumer feedback and nominations, industry intelligence and critic analysis.

Receiving the award, Bronagh Bell, business development director, said: “Our aim is to provide a centre of

excellence for people using venues for conference, business and training purposes. One of the ways we have achieved this is through the technical infrastructure at The Beardmore. It is exceptional and provides a valuable platform for all conferences.

“We have developed our teams to ensure they understand the particular needs of our conference and business customers and now we are really seeing the positive impact on business levels and, of course, are winning fantastic awards like this.”

The Clydebank-based facility, which is owned by the NHS, has been honoured every year at the annual awards since their launch.

Photograph courtesy of Scotland’s Colleges.

WINNING TEAM: Gordon Paterson, principal; Pamela Armstrong, international development manager; Liz McTaggart, director of business growth; Fiona Gribben, marketing manager and Richard Hutchison, graphic/web designer.

Gold for Clydebank College at Marketing Awards

THE winning streak continues for Clydebank College which took four prizes at Scotland’s Colleges Annual Marketing Awards earlier this year.

Clydebank received gold for Promotional Literature, silver for PR Campaign and also won awards in the Outstanding Contribution and Events categories.

Impressively, it was shortlisted for more awards by the judging panel than any other college in Scotland. Competition was significant with many submissions from across the sector.

Fiona Gribben, marketing manager said: “These awards recognise yet another set of achievements by Clydebank College and we are absolutely thrilled.”

Marian is World Class Blogger CHAMBER member Marian Dougan’s ‘Words to Good Effect’ is one of the best language professionals’ blogs in the world.

The director of Bearsden based DNA Language Ltd was placed overall third in the prestigious competition run

by LexioPhiles which assesses blogs by people who use languages in their profession, like translators and interpreters.

Photo by Beth Hodge Lifestyle Photography.

Marian was nominated in the ‘Language Professionals’ category of the Top 100 Language Blogs in the World 2011.

WORLD CLASS: Blogger Marian has a way with words.

The blogs were judged on their content, consistency and interactivity. Marian writes about writing, covering things like web content, usability and accessibility; language and translating and the issues faced by small businesses of all kinds. She aims to update her blog once a week, but admits work sometimes gets in the way!

“I was well chuffed to come third in the competition,” she said.

“There are some marvellous blogs out there, so I’m pretty amazed! I try to give the blog a broad appeal – it ranges

from etymology to schools’ careers events organised by the chamber to Stanley Baxter’s Parliamo Glasgow.

There’s something for everyone, not just linguists!”

Marian’s business provides translation and editing services as well as website health-checks for small businesses.

“There’s more to an effective website than good design and search engine optimisation. A few wee tweaks to the content can greatly enhance users’ experience of a site and encourage them to come back for more,” she added.

Marian has worked extensively for the public and private sectors in Italy, the UK and Holland, with clients including Government ministers and the EU Commission. www.wordstogoodeffect.wordpress.com www.dnalanguage.com

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THE EXPERIENCE TEAM: Spa manager Lisa Thorndike, spa assistant Jaimee Brown, receptionist Angie Spence (back row); therapists Louise McGregor, Nicola Cassells, Lynsey Ashman and Norma Skene (front row).

DUMBARTON’S only day spa is in the running for another prestigious award.

Experience Health and Beauty has been nominated for best newcomer at the Skincare Sanctuary Awards in Barcelona this September.

Managing director, Lora McCluskey and one of the therapists from Experience will be flown out to Barcelona, all expenses paid, to learn if they have won yet another accolade.

So far Experience has been runner-up in the Dunbartonshire Business Awards for Best New Business, nominated as the only Scottish Finalist in the Best New Salon category at the Professional Beauty Awards in London and received the desirable Four Star Salon of Distinction Award by Collin UK. Since opening its doors in October 2008, Experience Health and Beauty has gone from strength to strength despite the recession. Spa manager, Lisa Thorndike puts it down to the professionalism and hard work of the team of talented therapists.

“The girls really pride themselves in their work and convey professionalism at all times,” she said.

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BUTCHER’S SHOPJACKET: Jason Heron with Davina Lavery, WDC planning officer for regeneration.

Photo by Neil Petrie of Green Highlander Images.

Photo courtesy of Experience Health and Beauty.

Barcelona Bound For Experience Health and Beauty

Photo courtesy of West Dunbartonshire Council.

news in brief…

Dumbarton ‘Shopjackets’ Attract US Interest BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Angela Kershaw of Tell.

A US businessman made a special trip to see how using shopjackets on empty shops in Dumbarton town centre can make a difference.

Jason Heron, of Arlington, Virginia, chief executive of a solar power company, saw the pilot sites at 34 and 119 High Street.

He read about the innovative project which saw the empty units transformed into a butchers and a deli on the BBC’s news website earlier this year and was keen to find out more.

He met with officials from West Dunbartonshire Council to learn how the initiative is being used to help attract new firms to the town centre.

He said: “It was fantastic to see this exciting project with my own eyes. I was very impressed and I think there could be big potential for it in America where many of our shopping centres are having a tough time.”

Dumbarton is the first town in Scotland to install Shopjackets.

The initiative is backed up with advice on location, rent, lease terms, repairs, costs, negotiating with landlords, and on how to make best use of units to improve footfall and turnover. This advice is also available to existing businesses.

£250k Contract for Tell DUMBARTON’S Tell Organisation has secured £250k worth of Skills Development Scotland funding to provide modern apprenticeships for employees of any age.

This allows employers to train staff at no cost and enhances the skill level of the workforce. Where appropriate, training takes places on-site with little or no disruption to day-to-day business operations.

Areas covered are health and social care; business and administration; engineering and dental nursing.

Angela Kershaw, business development executive at Tell explained: “Modern apprenticeships have lots of benefits for employers, whilst employees develop their knowledge and skills at the same time as achieving a nationally recognised qualification.

“Tell is very proud to be described as a Learning Centre of Excellence and has procured this particular contract due to a high level of performance in other public sector contracts. www.tell.co.uk

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Photos by Neil Petrie, Green Highlander Images.

Queen’s Birthday Honour for John Corcoran

by June Hyslop

FORMER chamber chief executive John Corcoran was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to business.

John, who stepped down as CEO in December 2010, was instrumental in establishing Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce eight years ago when Allander, West Dumbarton and later Strathkelvin amalgamated.

Since then he has tirelessly promoted the chamber – first as its development officer and latterly as chief executive.

He remains a director and is honorary president.

“I was completely and utterly shocked when I heard and of course extremely pleased,” he said. “It was so difficult to keep it a secret until the official announcement was made.

“It’s not the sort of thing that people like me expect to hear. I have always been interested in business and stood up for small and medium sized enterprises but I never imagined it would lead to this.

“I share the honour with my colleagues in the chamber of commerce and with my business partner Simon McMillan, director of operations and general manager in our company, St Andrew’s College Summer Schools, where we work hard to lever income from abroad into the Scottish economy.”

He became involved initially with Allander Chamber when he was director of commercial services at St Andrew’s College, Bearsden. They held their meetings at the college which has since merged with the University of Glasgow and is now based in the city.

Robert Wilson, president of the chamber commented: “Everyone at Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce is delighted that John had received this honour.

“It is thoroughly well deserved as he has worked tirelessly for many years on behalf of the chamber both as a director and latterly as its chief executive officer. I have worked closely with him since 2003 and am privileged to call him a friend as well as a colleague.”

Outwith the chamber John, who lives in Jamestown, is well known as a community activist, and was a leading light in both the Alexandria Tenants and Residents Association, now known as CATRA, for more than 20 years and in the campaign to save services at the Vale of Leven Hospital.

He also fought to retain doctors’ practices in the heart of Alexandria, and was involved in the Alexandria Regeneration Group.

In 2003, his community efforts earned him title of Vale of Leven Citizen of the Year.

John recently relocated his own business, which provides English language summer schools and beginners classes in Spanish and Italian, to offices in the Pentagon Centre in Glasgow.

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Money Matters Prioritise Working On Your Business

Photo courtesy of Cam

pbell Dallas.

BUSINESS owners need to make time to work on their business as well as in it, says Neil Morrison a partner with accountants Campbell Dallas LLP. With pressure on profits and cash flow in today’s current economic climate, it is all too easy for business owners to end up working long hours without apparently achieving a great deal.

It is important at any time, but vital in difficult trading conditions, for business owners to prioritise their workload and ensure they are carrying out the important tasks of the business.

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A recent book I read had one key message throughout - the concept of business owners working on their business and not in their business.

Too many owners spend too much time doing what the business does, as opposed to managing it. They need to put systems in place and organise the business it so that it runs independently of them.

For example, possibly the worst person to open a hairdressing salon is someone who can actually cut hair. You may think this is an odd statement, but all too often a hairdresser who opens up a salon gets dragged very quickly into doing the only thing that the business does i.e. cutting hair. They need to spend time thinking about how to generate new business and grow the salon for the long term. The result is they effectively only end up creating a job for themselves.

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My role as an accountant and business adviser is to pro-actively discuss with my clients, throughout the trading year, the key financial figures on their management accounts and to look at how these relate to budgets and future plans for the business.

It is essential for the long-term success of any business that ‘working on’ time is planned into the owner’s working week and treated as a priority.

For more information or advice contact Neil Morrison, a partner at Campbell Dallas on 07543-648911 or at neil.morrison@campbelldallas.co.uk.

Campbell Dallas, a chamber partner company, is Scotland’s third largest independent firm of chartered accountants, with offices in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Perth and Stirling.

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Legal Matters

phy.

Photo by TBC Photogra

Mediation In Employment Disputes?

THE tables may soon turn in the balance between the rights of employers and employees reports Scott Docherty of McArthur Stanton Solicitors.

Vince Cable, the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, recently addressed the annual Conference of the British Chambers of Commerce.

Amongst other things, he hinted that the coalition government is looking at the current system of regulating disputes between employers and employees.

Specifically, he said: “We want more mediation and a longer period of qualifying employment before unfair

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dismissal claims can be brought – two years rather than one – and we think it reasonable that there should be a cost to starting a tribunal case, particularly if it encourages people to think twice.

So we are consulting on introducing a fee.”

He also referred to a proposed simplification of health and safety regulations for employers, in the context of the coalition’s stance that the previous government went beyond the minimum steps required to implement European Directives in employment law.

This general indication of the government’s plans will be of great interest to small business owners who have faced until now increasing, and occasionally crippling, employment regulation in the midst of a lengthy recession.

In time, following consultation, the balance of rights in the workplace may begin to favour employers more than they have recently, but until then,

businesses must be fully aware that current employment regulations will continue to be enforced to the letter by tribunals. Whilst it may, in future, become more difficult for employees to pursue claims rather than mediate, this does not mean that employers can simply relax and forget about satisfying their obligations meantime.

Employers must remain vigilant in addressing the rights of their employees, in updating and taking cognisance of the law on employment contracts and policies to ensure compliance with current law.

For more information call 01389 762266 or 01436 672212 or visit www.mcarthurstanton.co.uk.

McArthur Stanton has offices in Dumbarton and Helensburgh offering property and letting, private client services and services to businesses, including resolution of employment, debt recovery, contractual, licensing and health and safety issues.

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THE chamber celebrated the start of the summer recess with two successful events at Buchanan Castle Golf Club in June.

Photo by Gordon Barraclough.

Photo courtesy of Buchanan Castle Golf Club.

Golf Tee Off

WINNING GOLF TEAM: Iain Bennet, David Carmichael and Charles Carver of James Cargill with chamber president Robert Wilson (second left).

ELEVEN teams competed for the top prize of a fourball at the chamber’s annual golf event.

James Cargill’s team of David McGowan, Charles Carver and Iain Bennett won with the best overall score.

Nearest the pin went to Dillon Alexander, longest drive to David Carmichael and on the green in two at the 18th was shared by three players – Charles Carver, Dillon Alexander and David Carmichael.

Despite the rain everyone enjoyed play and the high tea afterwards in the clubhouse.

Prizes were donated by John Watson Printers, Business Doctors and Physiofast.

Chamber chief executive Gordon Barraclough said: “The golf day was fantastic despite the wet weather. All the players turned up and Buchanan Castle ground staff had worked tirelessly on preparing the course under extremely difficult conditions.

The course was immaculate.”

CUPCAKE DEMO: Margaret Darroch with honorary president John Corcoran.

Afternoon Tea Twist THE previous day there was a full house as the club hosted Afternoon Tea with a Twist. This brought together members, guests and local businesses for some networking, pampering and fun.

Chamber members May Quigley of Serenity Scene and Alaine Welsh of Whispering Willows provided pampering with a choice of relaxing mini massages and beauty treatments throughout the afternoon.

Afternoon tea was courtesy of sponsors the Tell Organisation and Wilson Decorators while Park Life and Stirling Life magazines supplied the bubbly. InCommerce publisher D-Tech Graphic Design and Print provided the programmes.

Stalls were set up by Annie Bell Accessories, Colour Me Confident, Flying Bird Designs, Knitting Pretty, Park Life and Stirling Life Magazines.

Campbell Dallas Chartered Accountants and Medical Beauty Clinics were available for one-to-one consultations.

The event was hosted and coorganised with Buchanan Castle Golf Club. Club professional Keith McIntosh gave golf lessons at the new covered driving range.

Margaret Darroch of Absolut Cupcakes demonstrated how to ice and decorate cupcakes then everyone had a chance to have a go with prizes for the best.

The bumper raffle, which was drawn by honorary president John Corcoran raised £205 for Dumbarton District Women’s Aid whose representatives attended as guests of the chamber.

Special thanks go to Ali Thompson of Buchanan Castle Golf Club for her help with the raffle.

15

Photo courtesy of Lord McFall of Alcluith.

Lord McFall Steps Down From SRC Chair Role

by June Hyslop

FROM paper boy to peer of the realm - John McFall’s success is testament to the value of a Scottish education.

The former teacher and depute head went to night school and studied for his first degree at what was then Paisley College after leaving school at 15.

Now Lord McFall of Alcluith – he has just stepped down as chairman of Strathleven Regeneration Company (SRC) after 11 years and, in 2010, resigned after 23 years as MP for West Dunbartonshire.

His pivotal role as chairman of the Treasury Select Committee when the banking crisis hit brought him to the attention of a wider audience than the role usually attracts. His persistent questioning of bankers won him many fans and saw him chosen as Which? Consumer champion in 2009.

But, as far as he is concerned, his lasting legacy is Lomondgate – the development which grew from his refusal to accept the setback that the announcement of the closure of the J&B bottling plant dealt his home town in 1998.

“For Dumbarton it was a big psychological blow,” he admitted. “For an area which for generations had seen itself as a whisky town, cessation of production at the plant was devastating – 470 jobs would be lost.

“This in an area which had suffered a succession of job losses and which had the highest unemployment rates in Scotland.”

16

John established a task force involving West Dunbartonshire Council, Scottish Enterprise Dunbartonshire, parent company Diageo, J&B local management and later MSP Jackie Baillie.

It would be fair to say that, at the time, many thought it would be just another talking shop – but he has proved them wrong.

“It was vitally important to me to ensure we regenerated the area, had the ambition to redevelop businesses, to help re-create jobs and not let those J&B workers down.

“As a result, SRC was formed as a special purpose vehicle in 2000 to facilitate the redevelopment and economic regeneration of the site. I am proud that it is still going strong today.”

After lengthy negotiations, John secured a dowry of £500,000 and 22 acres of land north of the A82 from Diageo under its corporate citizen objectives.

“It didn’t seem very good land – who would have thought that it would come in so decisively for Aggreko when they were looking to relocate years later.”

West Dunbartonshire Council also donated land and funding. Scottish Enterprise Dunbartonshire, as it then was, put up cash and gave significant in kind support until SRC employed its first member of staff in 2006.

“It was a hand to mouth exercise. It was an article of faith to keep going – endurance was key.

Photo courtesy of Aggreko plc.

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Lord McFall with Rupert Soames, Aggreko CEO. ADVERTISING FEATURE

“Getting BBC Scotland on board was crucial, then Lomondgate services, the business park, the residential development – we are talking about 300 houses now and there will be more in future. The Walker Group’s investment and support was critical as well.

“Independent forecasts estimate that by 2019 Lomondgate will have created 1100 net additional jobs and contributed more than £500m gross additional value to the regional economy.

“I would defy any public/private project to have as big a leverage – it is an excellent example of partnership – that is why we now want to become a community interest company – acting in an entrepreneurial way making returns to invest back. It’s a refinement of where we are just now.

“I know I leave SRC in safe hands – David Hastings as chief executive has been driving the project relentlessly and we would not be where we are without his dedication and professionalism. Administrator Sandra Armstrong has been with the company since the outset and has also been a terrific employee.”

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BuCHAnAn Castle Golf Club celebrated its 75th birthday in May with a week long programme of events.

The party kicked off with a pro-am tournament and included a celebration dinner in the clubhouse with renowned after dinner speaker Professor David Purdie.

He is co-author of The Greatest Game which explores the real and fictional history of golf and is himself a keen player.

Photo courtesy of Buchanan Castle Golf Club.

75th Birthday Celebrations at Buchanan Castle

A highlight of the festivities was the presentation by the club’s owner, His Grace the Duke of Montrose, of a pipe banner to the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Banners are carried by military pipers on state and other important occasions. The Duke of Montrose has close family and personal ties to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, an antecedent of the new regiment. He personally presented the banner to Colonel Alastair Campbell, regimental secretary and himself an ex-Argyll.

The Banner was immediately placed on the pipes of serving soldier, Euan Jardine, who played a brief medley of tunes and the regimental march, Scotland the Brave.

The banner will be held by 5 SCOTS, based in Canterbury, which is the battalion of the regiment which is a direct descendant of the Argylls.

Photo by Miller Hatton.

www.buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk

BIRTHDAY BANNER: His Grace the Duke of Montrose, with club captain John Shaftoe, lady captain Anne Crawford and piper Euan Jardine with the banner.

18

Circle Insurance Services plc joins an elite band of brokers at the very top its profession in the uK. It is also one of the first firms in Scotland to achieve chartered insurance broker status – the gold standard for the industry.

So far only two per cent of the Chartered Insurance Institute’s (CII) 3,500 members in the UK have the accolade. The recognition from one of the largest insurance and financial services professional bodies in the world is seen as a mark of quality and commitment to the highest standards.

Circle’s group managing director Jim Shields commented: “This puts brokers on a par with other professionals such as chartered accountants and surveyors.

Photo courtesy of Aggreko plc.

Circle Insurance Services Joins Elite Band of Brokers Aggreko Powers Ahead With Extra £30 Million Spend AGGREKO continues to power ahead despite tough trading conditions and has pledged an additional £30 million spend this year based on strong demand for equipment in its successful international division.

In the face of industry speculation of a dip in business the Dumbarton-based firm has come out on top in the FTSE 100 index risers board after City analysts emphasised its significant potential for growth.

“It demonstrates our commitment to dealing with our clients in a clear, concise and transparent manner, to managing our business relationships in a trustworthy way.”

Aggreko now expects underlying profit to be slightly more than the 20 per cent it predicted in April. It is the second time this year that the company has increased its demand-based spending, following a £70 million increase in April.

Chartered broker status was introduced by the CII as a mark of excellence. It promotes protection of the public interest first and foremost, with rigorous qualifying criteria including a commitment to continuous professional development and to a strict code of ethics and conduct.

In 2010, the company’s international power projects accounted for 44 per cent of profits – an impressive increase of 15 per cent in the preceding five year period. In the first half of this year alone, international demand grew by 22 per cent while local business saw an underlying increase of 17 per cent.

Circle Insurance provides a range of services to corporate and private clients via its network of offices throughout England and Scotland. Its office at 71 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, opened in 1994 and employs 18 staff, eight of whom are insurance brokers who work with clients throughout Scotland.

Aggreko’s new £20m Lomondgate factory, currently under construction, will create 110 new jobs and safeguard a further 120 in the Dumbarton area. It will design, develop and manufacture power generators and temperature control equipment to be deployed by Aggreko around the world.

Research by YouGov for the CII in 2009 revealed that the public ranks chartered status number one in terms of confidence in professionalism.

The firm employs more than 5000 staff in 148 locations worldwide and provides temporary power and cooling systems for a wide range of events and clients.

www.circleins.com

It has a £37m deal to supply around 220 megawatts of power for the London 2012 Olympics and was one of the first companies to supply Japan with temporary power after the tsunami in March. www.aggreko.com

19

The Clachan Inn Drymen Est.1734

The Clachan Inn is the oldest registered licensed pub in Scotland and means “a building of stone”, a more permanent construction of its time when many buildings were made of turf.

Telephone: 01360 660824 www.clachaninndrymen.co.uk

In 1734, it was the first of its kind to have its own still to distil and sell its own whisky. The first licensee of The Clachan was Mistress Gow, one of Rob Roy’s sisters.

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The Family Pharmacy Pharmacy runs in the family for Fraser McPherson, who established Cardross Pharmacy in 2005 to offer a complete independent service to the local community.

“My grandfather was a pharmacist, so I’m really just carrying on a tradition going back two generations,” said Fraser, who qualified in 1996.

“We opened Cardross Pharmacy because there was no other chemist or pharmacy facilities in the village, and we knew it was a service that was much needed in the area.”

Purpose-built, Cardross Pharmacy has become a popular fixture in the village, serving patients from surrounding GP surgeries with the personal care and attention an independent pharmacy can provide.

“As part of the local community we have got to know most of out clients by name, and because I am the resident pharmacist they will always see myself and my experienced team,” said Fraser, who is proud that prescription dispensing is at the heart of the services on offer, just as in his grandfather’s day.

“What differs is that we not only dispense NHS and private prescriptions, but one call quickly and conveniently arranges their collection from the GP. “We can then either have them ready to collect or deliver them direct to the client’s door.

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Priorities for Business…

THE Scottish Parliament elections in May ushered in a majority SNP government

Photo courtesy of Jackie Baillie.

Jackie Baillie – MSP Dumbarton

for the first time with more than a few upsets at the polls. In Dunbartonshire, Labour lost both Strathkelvin and Bearsden and Clydebank and Milngavie to the SNP’s Fiona McLeod and Gil Paterson respectively while Jackie Baillie held Dumbarton for Labour.

InCommerce asked them about their priorities for business …

22

THESE are incredibly challenging times for West Dunbartonshire. Indeed, only last month it was named one of the most difficult places in the UK to find a job.

We need to invest in young people, increase their employability and create apprenticeships to provide them with new skills.

In addition, we should establish a Green New Deal to ensure at least 10,000 homes are provided with low carbon energy sources like solar panels to create jobs and lower energy costs.

We must also invest in business. We are fortunate to have several world class employers in our area like Chivas, Babcock and Aggreko. Helping them grow helps our economy and so does investing in small businesses. If every small business could take on one additional employee it would make such a difference to our employment levels.

Let’s make this the year we turn our town centres around and finally, make progress on the development of the River Leven, from Dumbarton to Loch Lomond.

We live in a beautiful place, with good connections to the city and the airport. We have a trained and willing workforce. These are key ingredients to future success but business, industry and all levels of government need to work together to capitalise on our assets.

STRATHKELvIN and Bearsden are home to many businesses, lots of them in the SME sector.

I was proud of the SNP manifesto pledges for 25,000 modern apprenticeships, 100,000 training opportunities and £7.5m of employment assistance to encourage small businesses to take on new staff members and I will work to see the benefits come to our towns and villages.

I will give my support to stepping up efforts to help companies who export access new and emerging

Gil Paterson – MSP Clydebank & Milngavie Photo courtesy of Gil Paterson.

Photo courtesy of Fiona McLeod.

Fiona McLeod – MSP Strathkelvin & Bearsden markets – by building the necessary foundation in skills, infrastructure and ensuring Scottish business rates are the most competitive in the UK. I am glad that the hugely successful small business bonus scheme is continuing, whereby small businesses pay no or reduced business rates.

I saw the benefits first hand during the election campaign in Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs and Bearsden.

Indeed, I have set up my constituency office within Enterprise House in Kirkintilloch alongside lots of small businesses – that’s how serious I am about supporting commerce.

My door will always be open to ideas and plans for bringing jobs and investment to Strathkelvin and Bearsden.

CLYDEBANK is a great place to invest in but it will take ‘inspirational ideas’ to put it back on the map in the current economic climate.

The regeneration of Clydebank and getting people back to work is my number one priority. Men and women are desperate for jobs to bring some prosperity to Clydebank – it’s a great place to invest in and an ideal strategic location, so well-placed for transport links by rail, sea and air.

There are brownfield sites which would be ideal for housing or factory development at very competitive land values.

We just need employers and businesses to have faith in the area and come up with some inspirational ideas.

Young people should know of Clydebank’s engineering heritage, particularly as this year is the 40th anniversary of the Upper Clyde Shipbuilders successful work-in.

This was a defining moment for the retention of shipbuilding work in Clydebank and for jobs in the West of Scotland.

Clydebank industries must be remembered by younger generations. They made a massive contribution not only to Scotland, but worldwide. If youngsters don’t know where they’ve been, they won’t know where they are going.

Regenerating the area now is vital for their future and the Scottish Government will do everything in its power to facilitate this.

23

Fire Safety

by Billy Hunter,

MIIRSM, GIFireE,

of BH Risk Assessment

ALMOST five years after the law on fire safety changed many businesses are still not aware of their responsibilities or that courts can impose hefty penalties and find them liable for substantial costs for breaches.

24

In December, Greggs the bakers was fined £50,000 and ordered to pay £20,326 in prosecution costs, whilst what a judge called a ‘cavalier disregard’ for the safety of guests, cost a luxury hotel near Manchester £127,000 with costs of £52,000.

The system is based on risk assessment principles and all non domestic premises, including the common parts of blocks of flats and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), must have a legally-designated person responsible for fire safety arrangements.

The responsible person must: •

Carry out a fire safety risk assessment of premises;

•

Identify fire safety measures necessary as result;

•

Implement these measures using risk reduction principles;

•

Put in place arrangements for the ongoing control and review of the fire safety measures;

•

Comply additionally with any specific requirements of the fire safety regulations;

•

Keep the fire safety risk assessment and outcome under review;

•

Keep records in certain circumstances; and

•

Ensure adequate staff training.

The current regime requires businesses to take steps both to prevent fire and to mitigate its detrimental effects on premises to ensure the safety of persons.

If you have any degree of control over premises covered by fire safety regulations, then you are likely to be held responsible, but this will be in direct proportion to your level of control. I.e. the more control you have, the greater your responsibility. In addition, an employer always has responsibility for the health and safety of his or her employees.

More than one person can be responsible for fire safety. For example, an employer, owner, landlord, tenant or a contractor carrying out repair work may each have responsibilities for premises and are required to cooperate with each other and co-ordinate their fire safety measures.

In most cases enforcement will be carried out by the local Fire & Rescue Service which can inspect or audit premises to ensure compliance with the law.

Information on fire safety can be found on the Scottish Government website at www.firelawscotland.org.

Billy Hunter spent 30 years with Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Service and was latterly Dunbartonshire area commander. He is qualified to IOSH, NEBOSH and Institution of Fire Engineers standards. He is a Member of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management. www.bhriskassessment.vpweb.co.uk

25

Oakburn Gardens and Trees

MPLETE YOUR ADVERT CHECK LIST : Correct Phone Number No Spelling Mistakes we must assume the advert is approved.

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• Horticultural & Arboricultural Consultants • Garden Design • Landscaping l & Landscaping Services • Horticultural & Arboricultural Consultants • Tree & Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Drainage • Landscaping • Small Civils • Tree & Garden Maintenance Stump Removals ••Horticultural & Arboricultural Consultants • Drainage • Garden Design • Small Civils Gregg McIntosh (MI Hort.)

• Landscaping Jamestown, Alexandria • Stump Removals • Tree & Garden Maintenance Gregg McIntosh (MI Hort.) l & Arboricultural Consultants Jamestown, Alexandria • Drainage gn www.oakburngardensandtrees.com • Small Civils g • Stump Removals www.oakburngardensandtrees.com en Maintenance

07855 132 836 07855 132 836 Gregg McIntosh (MI Hort.)

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The Carrick Golf Course

A Stunning Setting with Club Atmosphere

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE Carrick golf course is absolutely stunning with views of Ben Lomond and the highlands to the north, not to mention the beauty of Loch Lomond itself, right on its doorstep.

The 71-par golf course straddles the majestic scenery that is the fault line between the Scottish lowlands and highlands.

With nine holes set in each, it is the perfect location for club golf, corporate and society away days.

Acclaimed course designer Doug Carrick has created elevated holes which frame impressive views and provide a stimulating and challenging course for golfers of all abilities.

The Carrick boasts a spectacular layout, offering unrivalled views across Loch Lomond with its stunning 14th hole a real jewel in the crown standing 80ft above the green, closely guarded by bunkers.

In 2010, owners De Vere completed more than £100k of irrigation works which means the course has greater year-round playability. An extensive bunker renovation programme is almost finished with only a few holes remaining.

Ross Whitfield, director of golf and estates, explained: “We are continually improving the quality of the course and it is maturing well.”

He added that The Carrick has a real club atmosphere with regular member competitions and social events in the Claret Jug restaurant and bar. It is also home to the world class Carrick Spa which has been Scotland’s best hotel spa for two years running.

Photos courtesy of De Vere

Competition...

WIN

A FOURBALL AT THE FABULOUS CARRICK GOLF COURSE

see overleaf...

29

ADVERTISING FEATURE

accessible membership pioneers The Carrick pioneered an ‘innovative and forward thinking’ PGA recommended individual or corporate membership scheme.

This was launched by honorary captain and legendary golf broadcaster, Peter Alliss, last spring.

It’s designed to make golf more accessible, flexible and family friendly, to stimulate participation and frequency of play.

Based on a points system, it gives golf membership for just £295 with access to 16 De Vere courses at 11 locations throughout Britain, including the Carrick and European Tour venue Slaley Hall.

Points can be topped up at any time and can be used to entertain friends, family and business associates. www.cameronhouse.co.uk

WARM WELCOME: Reception at Cameron House Hotel.

Competition...

WIN

A FOURBALL AT THE FABULOUS CARRICK GOLF COURSE

Answer the following question –

Who designed the golf course at The Carrick on Loch Lomond?

Send your name, address and telephone number by email to:fourball@incommerce.biz by the closing date of 31/8/11.

Employees and agents of the publisher or any company connected with the production or distribution of a prize or any of their associated companies are not eligible to take part, nor are their relatives or members of their families or household. Only one entry

The winner will be drawn by the publisher from entries received by the closing date. There is no cash alternative and the prize is non-transferable. The publisher’s decision on all matters is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

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Thomas Muir Festival

FESTIVAL ORGANISER: Jimmy Watson.

First Thomas Muir Festival Triumph 34

THE first ever Thomas Muir Festival was a huge success and could become a regular event in the East Dunbartonshire calendar.

Organiser and driving force behind it, chamber member Jimmy Watson of Huntershill Village in Bishopbriggs, was ‘delighted’ with both the turnout and the feedback he has received.

“I’d like to thank everyone who helped make it such a success,” he said. “The Thomas Muir story is an amazing one. He was a local lad who made a big difference. We often take democracy for granted, but it’s worth remembering those who have given up their lives fighting for the freedoms that we all now enjoy.”

Several events were a sell out including an academic summit to discuss and debate Muir’s place in history at Tom Johnston House in Kirkintilloch and a celebratory concert featuring folk singer Dick Gaughan as the headline act at the Fort Theatre in Bishopbriggs.

Other highlights of the weekend included the Muir Mini Stories – short plays about Muir written and performed by S1 and S2 pupils from Bishopbriggs Academy plus the Hector MacMillan interview by Scottish artist Roddy Buchanan.

Despite the weather, crowds turned out in force for Bishopbriggs Gala on the Saturday afternoon. Around 100 local primary school pupils cycled through Bishopbriggs to the Fort Theatre wearing coloured ponchos to protect them from the elements. East Dunbartonshire’s

FESTIVAL HURRAH: (L-R back row) Jo Swinson, MP; Alex MacMillan, Councillor Gordan Low; Peter Arnott, playwright; Jimmy Watson; Jim Buchanan; Joe Buchanan. (Front) Hector MacMillan, Muir biographer and Roddy Buchanan, Scottish artist.

STAR TURN: Actor Lewis MacLeod

THOMAS MUIR FACTFILE Thomas Muir, an 18th century lawyer, was instrumental in encouraging the establishment of parliamentary reform societies in Scotland and has been described as the ‘father of Scottish democracy’.

He was charged with and convicted of sedition and transported to Botany Bay in Australia for 14 years. If found within the British Isles during this time he would have been hung, drawn and quartered.

The main aim of the Friends of Thomas Muir is to raise awareness of this almost forgotten local hero and at the same time promote outdoor activities, education, local history and tourism.

The Friends of Thomas Muir is a working partnership between East Dunbartonshire Council and the community, and is chaired by Councillor Billy Hendry.

Cycle Co-op and Strathclyde Police attended with Bishopbriggs Youth BMX Club putting on a stunning acrobatic display outside the theatre.

It’s more than 170 years since the last Thomas Muir festival, which was named the Huntershill Festival and held at Mosesfield, Springburn.

Nearby Brackenbrae House opened its doors and the art exhibition/ coffee room proved very popular while Bishopbriggs Library hosted a democracy themed treasure hunt which was popular with younger children

There’s a bust by sculptor Alexander Stoddart and permanent exhibition about Muir in Bishopbriggs Library.

The Thomas Muir Cairn stands at the top of Crowhill Road opposite Huntershill House (Muir’s family home).

Photos by Neil Petrie, Green Highlander Images.

The first guided Thomas Muir Heritage Trail Walk on the Sunday was well supported and included a dedication service in Cadder Church. The long term aim of the trail is to promote tourism in the area, which should help develop local businesses along the route and create employment. www.thomasmuir.co.uk

Further afield, he’s celebrated in the Museum of Australian Democracy, which also houses a bust of Muir made

by Alexander Stoddart in 2008. In addition, he was a citizen of France where he died, aged 33, after escaping from Australia.

BMX CLUB: Stunt rider.

35

Thomas Muir Festival Heritage Trail The walks begins at St Machan’s Graveyard in Clachan of Campsie and ends at Huntershill House in Bishopbriggs.

En route there was a special dedication service at Cadder Church led by the Rev Graham Finch which was attended by Provost Eric Gotts and Councillor Gordan Low of East Dunbartonshire Council.

Photo by Jimmy Watson.

The trail utilises existing core walking paths, many of which have been upgraded to a very high standard. For most of the way it is not near roads and is therefore very safe and family friendly.

Route information and maps can be downloaded free of charge from www.thomasmuir.co.uk

MORE than 40 people joined the first guided walk of the Thomas Muir Heritage Trail as part of the festival including, MP Jo Swinson.

The 18km trail passes through some of East Dunbartonshire’s most beautiful countryside and meanders alongside the Forth and Clyde canal, the Glazert Water and the River Kelvin.

Festival organiser Jimmy Watson of Huntershill Village explained: “My hope is that the trail will become a well trodden walking/cycling route within East Dunbartonshire, that attracts not only local residents but people from Glasgow, Scotland, the UK and overseas.

“The trail is serviced at points along the route by a regular bus service so is accessible to all. There’s also the flexibility to walk sections and then use the bus to get back to where you started.”

Funding is being sought to enhance the visitor experience as there’s a wealth of local history shared by villages along the route.

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Milngavie Traders £470K Town Centre Investment Plan The money would come from a levy on businesses in the BID area and would be used to promote the town centre via an events programme and new website – and to take on responsibility for the public toilets.

Experience Milngavie was inspired by successes in Falkirk and Clarkston. With support from East Dunbartonshire Council, it decided to set-up its own Business Improvement District.

MILNGAVIE BID TEAM: Alan Arnott, Ian Lavrie, Chair, Wendy Ross, Inspector John O’Neil of Strathclyde Police, Rona Miller, Gordon Brown and Fraser Robb of East Dunbartonshire Council.

PLANS for a Business Improvement District (BID) in Milngavie Town Centre are gaining momentum.

Steering group Experience Milngavie reckons that around £470,000 could be raised and directly invested in the town centre between 2011 and 2016 if local businesses give it the thumbs up in August.

Chair of Experience Milngavie, Ian Lavrie said: “With an estimated income of £470,000 in the planned five years of operation, the BID will be able to deliver real and tangible benefits to our businesses, our customers and our town centre.

“BIDs work the world over and the Milngavie Town Centre BID is in the right place at the right time to make a significant difference to businesses in this area.” www.experiencemilngaviebid.co.uk 37

Charity Fundraiser Success

The event, organised by chamber president Robert Wilson and East Dunbartonshire Council, raised £6000 for 10 local charities including Strathkelvin Talking Newspapers, G66 Live and Kirkintilloch Victim Support.

The dinner was well supported by representatives from local businesses including Solid Rock Cycles, Huntershill Village, the Indian Cottage restaurant and members of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

The guest speakers were Billy Kelly and John O’Neill who are both well known on the after dinner circuit.

Photo by East Dunbartonshire Council

EAST Dunbartonshire charities are set to benefit from a fundraising dinner held at Tom Johnston House in Kirkintilloch.

DINNER GUESTS: Chamber president Robert Wilson with representatives of charities which benefited from the dinner.

Kirky 800 Anniversary Celebrations A SERIES of festivities celebrates the 800th anniversary of Kirkintilloch becoming a Barony Burgh.

The Royal Charter was signed in October 1211and a six month long events programme culminates with a commemorative weekend around the actual anniversary of this historic event.

The celebrations kicked off in April with a walk of faith followed by a showcase in the town’s leisure centre where Don Martin of Kirkintilloch Society of Antiquarians gave a historic overview of how the Barony Burgh came about.

The first week in October will see an ecumenical service take place, a special meeting of the Society of Antiquarians at St Ninians High School, historical walks and a range of activities and events for all the family.

38

Over the summer the anniversary will be remembered at a range of events including Kirkintilloch 800 lectures, a town walk and at the annual canal festival which takes place from 22 to 28 August.

Council leader Rhondda Geekie said: “There is much to be proud of in Kirkintilloch and it is right that we recognise the 800th anniversary of the creation of the Burgh.

“Throughout the coming months there should be something for everyone to get involved in and enjoy in recognition of this anniversary.” www.eastdunbartonshire.gov.uk

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UK First for Golden Jubilee Hospital

OPENING NIGHT: Chamber president Robert Wilson with Colin Barrie of Caulders Garden Centres and Councillor Rhondda Geekie, leader of East Dunbartonshire Council.

NAMED after a famous elephant, Charlie’s Theatre Café Bar at Mugdock Country Park near Milngavie was unveiled at a celebratory launch event.

THE Golden Jubilee National Hospital in Clydebank is the first in the UK to stream live operations from its theatres and cardiac catheterisation laboratories to an auditorium.

Charlie was the resident star attraction at Craigend Zoo which operated from the site for a time during the 1950s.

Its state-of-the-art audio visual equipment, with a two way audio link, allows medical teaching, research and discussion in real time.

Councillor Rhondda Geekie, leader of East Dunbartonshire Council attended as did chamber president Robert Wilson and other invited guests.

The pioneering system was launched at the inaugural Scottish event of the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) which was held at the Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre earlier this year.

The new contemporary facility complements a range of eating and drinking options at the park, enhances its theatre and other events, generates revenue and creates employment.

Charlie’s is run by Caulders Garden Centre and is open every day from 9am on summer evenings and when there are winter theatre performances.

For regular film and theatre events, Charlie’s will be open from 5pm until performance time and at any planned interval.

This project completes the last part of the management committee’s current development plan and is a welcome addition to the country park’s portfolio.

It would not have been possible without the support of East Dunbartonshire and Stirling Councils plus grant funding secured from Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER. Project design and management was by architects the Pollock Hammond Partnership which specialises in the conservation and restoration of traditional and listed buildings. Construction was carried out by local firm Fleming Buildings Limited of Lenzie.

As part of this prestigious conference, a team from the NHS National Waiting Times Centre, which incorporates The Golden Jubilee Hospital and The Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre, demonstrated the new equipment.

Mitchell Lindsay, consultant cardiologist at the Golden Jubilee said: “We are the only site in the UK to have the unique ability to show live operations or procedures to an audience of approximately 170 people at a time.

“This system allows us to show our medical colleagues any procedure we are undertaking and discuss cases on a step by step basis.”

Business development director Bronagh Bell, added: “This investment in technology means that The Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre is leading the way in the provision of medical conferences.

“No site in the UK has the ability to provide this unique service and we look forward to building on our links with the Golden Jubilee National Hospital to be a conduit in the education of Scottish medical professionals for years to come.”

www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk 41

Outdoor Adventure is the Business for Cliff A LIFE threatening bout of malaria brought explorer Cliff Giddings back to Scotland to set up his own eco-adventure and activity business.

The former commando loved the outdoors when he was growing up in the Somerset countryside and now he is making a living from it.

After a career in the Royal Marines, Cliff set up Wild by Nature – his outdoor activity and expedition business which is based at Eastside in Kirkintilloch with help from his local Business Gateway office.

The countryside and farming were a big part of Cliff’s childhood: “In the area where I grew up people either became a farmer or signed up, so I decided to do the latter.

After leaving the Royal Marines, Cliff took part in various adventure activities courses which culminated in a move to Scotland to study for a degree in Outdoor Adventure at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

While studying, Cliff joined the Territorial Army Parachute Regiment and spent most weekends canoeing, hill walking and honing his survival skills. More outdoor related qualifications followed while he worked in adventure education in Scotland.

His next move was overseas, where he travelled independently for eight years, often working with indigenous peoples within an eco-adventure context. It was while he was a canoe guide in Burma that he fell ill and decided to return to the UK. 42

Wild by Nature provides a range of hands-on eco-adventure activities and expeditions including canoe safaris and courses within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

It also organises mountain treks which combine walking in remote landscapes with mountain craft skills such as navigation and scrambling techniques.

Cliff, who also lives in Kirkintilloch, added: “Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful places there is and the perfect location for the type of activities we do.

ADVENTURER: Cliff Giddings.

“We strive to offer a safaristyle adventure which retains a strong environmental ethos. I love taking people out and teaching them new skills.”

Cliff (42) found the advice he got from Business Gateway invaluable: “It was great just sitting down with an expert who could look at my business idea from the outside and think of ways to make it work.” www.wildbynature.eu www.bgateway.com

Photos by Wild by Nature.

ON SAFARI: Wild by Nature canoe expedition.

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Crime Supper Anyone?

AUTHORS: Christopher Brookmyre and Mark Billingham.

Photo courtesy of Them Beatles.

BEST selling authors Christopher Brookmyre and Mark Billingham have top billing at the now famous Fish, Chips ‘n’ Champagne Crime Supper at the fourth Milngavie Book and Arts Festival.

FAB FOUR TRIBUTE: Them Beatles.

Early booking is advised for this 10 September event as it sells out every year. According to the organisers it “promises to be a stimulating, entertaining and very witty evening with one of crime writing’s most talented double acts”.

There’s also bound to be a rush to see the Them Beatles tribute band which headlines from 2pm in Milngavie shopping precinct the same day. Also appearing are Blue Dubh, the Dunbartonshire Wind Ensemble plus talented local musicians.

Renowned broadcaster Kaye Adams will launch the festival at the Lillie Art Gallery at 7pm on Tuesday 6 September. This will be followed by a panel of new authors, discussing how they got published.

This year’s festival, which runs from 6 to 10 September, has been organised in co-operation with East Dunbartonshire libraries, Milngavie churches and Mugdock Country Park.

Authors booked include James Robertson, Sally Magnusson, Robert Douglas, Sue Peebles, Bert Mitchell and John MacLeod.

Saturday sees a full day of ticketed children’s events featuring Storyplaytimes with Peepo! and the Moomins, cartoon drawing with Moira Munro and a ballet-themed workshop with Janey Louise Jones of Princess Poppy fame.

Art Forum is hosting an exhibition throughout the festival and running a community art project also on Saturday.

Tickets are available six weeks ahead of the festival from Milngavie Bookshop, 37 Douglas Street, from Art Forum, 50 Station Rd and from other selected venues. They can also be purchased online from the festival website.

The event is run by Milngavie Festival Limited, a charitable company which encourages local traders and community groups to play an active role and take advantage of the increased footfall and publicity the festival brings. www.milngaviefestival.org.uk

45

Dumbarton Academy Magic At YED Awards A TEAM from Dumbarton Academy scooped the Campbell Dallas Award for Best Overall Young Enterprise Company in the county.

They also picked up the Aggreko Award for Best Trade Fair Stand, the Clydebank College Award for Best Presentation and the Youth Enterprise Dunbartonshire (YED) Award for Best Company Report.

The winners – Nine of Hearrts – not a spelling mistake and there were 10 team members – produced and packaged a DVD showing how to perform magic tricks with ordinary household objects and gave an impressive presentation and demonstration on the night.

To cap it off the same team also triumphed at the Young Enterprise Trade Fair in Glasgow taking the honours for best stall from Dunbartonshire making it three in a row for the school which also won the previous two years.

Their business advisor was Paul Sheerin of Polaroid Eyewear and their link teacher was Louise McMahon.

The runner-up in the best company category was Bearsden’s Boclair Academy. Kirkintilloch High School took the Wide Blue Ltd Award for Most Innovative Product or Service, the YED Award for Environmental Excellence and the University of Strathclyde Award for Best Marketing Strategy, while the YED Special Merit Award went to Merkland School also in Kirkintilloch.

Local schools are always looking for advisers from the business community to help with projects like this and with enterprise education in general. For more details, contact Jacqui King on 01436 820272 or email kingorhu@tiscali.co.uk.

46

Photo by Lewis Mackay.

Photo by Bob Johnston.

NINE OF HEARRTS: Colin Douglas, Jennifer Lynn, Daryl McKinley, Gillian Chalmers, Callum Smith (back); Suzanna Donnelly, Aileen Campbell, Alex Farquharson, Jessica Dunsmore (middle) and Andrew Hutton (front).

Amazing Things Achievement for Carleith Primary CARLEITH Primary School has won a West Dunbartonshire Council Amazing Things Achievement Award with some help from chamber members.

The Duntocher school received the award thanks to a joint project with the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) and the Lennox Partnership.

Carleith Primary School asked the chamber to help it find partners to work with and Elizabeth Mackay, SBHT property administrator at Strathleven House in the Vale of Leven Industrial Estate, responded.

This led to SHBT working with the school for several weeks on a project based on Strathleven House which is an ‘A’ listed historic building.

Carleith head teacher Joan Brock said that the visit to Strathleven had a positive impact on learning and enhanced the quality of the curriculum.

“The children have spoken and written confidently about the morning spent at Strathleven House expressing their enjoyment of the visit. They particularly liked the fact that they were able to talk to people who had expertise in a particular subject.

“We are obviously thrilled to have this work recognised.”

SHBT and the Lennox Partnership will also receive award certificates for their involvement in the project.

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The newly refurbished premises re-opened on 18th April 2011. The design represents an

The Co-operative Funeralcare will continue to be staffed by the existing team including manager Kenneth Keegan and Lynsey McBain Principal Funeral Director, Jim Murphy Senior Funeral Director, Funeral Director Mark Bishop, Drivers Billy McVey and Richard Donnelly and also Funeral Arrangers Sandra MacPherson and Maureen O’Dell. They know the town and its people well and will continue to provide the high standard of caring and professional service for which The Co-operative Funeralcare is renowned.

With the strength and reputation of the Co-operative Group behind them, Co-operative Funeralcare staff view their key role both as supporter and adviser to the bereaved, helping them to devise a fitting funeral which truly reflects the life of an individual. Many people don’t realise how a funeral can be transformed with just the smallest of personal touches.

The Co-operative Funeralcare will offer options and choices on these and many other funeral services.

Manager Kenneth Keegan commented: “We are very proud of our newly refurbished branch. We’re determined to make funeral homes more approachable and get people thinking and talking about funerals.

“

The design represents an evolutionary step in funeral homes

The team at Bonhill Road can offer advice on all aspects of funeral arrangements, as well as information on funeral plans, green funerals, memorials and floral tributes. Arrangements can be made at the funeral home or in the comfort of your own home.

For more information contact Lynsey and the team on

01389 762327 or call into the branch at

45 Bonhill Road, Dumbarton.

”

By being better prepared, they can save themselves and their families much emotional distress when the time comes to make arrangements.”

Interior of the Bonhill Road branch, Dumbarton

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Elisha Scoops Apprentice of the Year

Airport Rail Links vital for Scottish Economy CONNECTIVITY is the key to economic prosperity for the West of Scotland and beyond – which is why Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce supports plans for a direct rail link to Glasgow Airport and intercity Crossrail proposals.

Photo Courtesy of APSE.

The business case for both is indisputable according to honorary president, John Corcoran.

BEST APPRENTICE: Elisha McKendrick with (L-R) Willie McFall, judge; Martin Feeney, West Dunbartonshire Council and Councillor Jim McGuigan, chair of APSE Scotland.

CLYDEBANK’S Elisha McKendrick is the top first year apprentice in Scotland. The 18-year-old triumphed at the Scottish Building and Housing APSE Apprentice Awards.

She picked up the First Year Apprentice of the Year prize at the annual event and admitted it came as a bit of a shock: “I couldn’t believe it when my name was announced. There were apprentices from all over Scotland, from all different fields in the running.

“The tourism industry would benefit greatly from this as would business in general. This is especially important for Dunbartonshire which relies heavily on tourism.

“It is a major investment in our future. Glasgow must be one of few remaining major cities in Britain with very poor intercity transport links which just isn’t good enough in this day and age.

“This project is long overdue and any future delays will harm both our tourist industry and business.”

Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, in common with all the other Scottish chambers, has promoted the Crossrail project since it was first mooted.

“Once it sunk in it was actually me, I was just so happy.

I haven’t stopped smiling since and my bosses at West Dunbartonshire Council are over the moon.”

“Fast connections between Glasgow Airport, the city and Edinburgh are essential for businesses. Time is a critical factor and we lose out if we cannot get people from A to B quickly,” he added.

Elisha is no stranger to winning – last year she scooped Clydebank College’s Painting and Decorating (First Year) Apprentice of the Year title.

“It just makes sense and for that reason we offer our complete support to the British Airport Authority in its fight for this to become a reality.”

Elisha’s interest in the trade was sparked when she attended a skillseekers course at Clydebank College while still at school.

“We spent two afternoons in construction and I really enjoyed painting and decorating. After school I saw an apprenticeship with West Dunbartonshire Council and I went for it. I started last year and I’ve not looked back since.”

Now in her second year, Elisha is keen to continue her work: “I’d like to be kept on in the council after my apprenticeship finishes. My uncle has his own painting and decorating firm in Australia and he has asked me to go out there to work for him. I’ll just wait and see what happens.’

48

“It is vital that businesses and communities in general have easy access to the airport. It makes economic sense for all sorts of reasons.

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Top Sports Psychologist at Prestige Lochside venue

Photo by Neil Petrie of Green Highlander Images.

nEW CHAMBER EVEnTS STRATEGY LAunCHED

HEAR top sports psychologist Tom Lucas explain why the right attitude is key to getting what you want in sport, in business and in life at the inaugural Third Thursday event of the new chamber year.

The venue is the prestigious Loch Lomond Golf Club near Luss where Tom will be introduced by wellknown golfer Gordon Sherry who won the Amateur Championship in 1995 and who has played in both The Open and US Masters.

Tom is performance director with the Gordon Sherry Golf Academy, teaching sports psychology skills to young players.

Expect an insight into how to psyche yourself for success and practical advice on achieving your goals.

Essential guidance for golfers and non-golfers alike at a location with the wow factor - this is an event not to be missed.

“Tom has been brilliant with me and my students,” said Gordon. “Quite simply I wish he had been by my side when I turned professional.

“Performing to a consistent high level is what it’s all about and, while I regret not having someone like him then, I am delighted to have him guiding my students.

50

“More than that he has become a friend and advises me on almost everything I do and plan to do. He often has to pull in the reins with me and helps me regain my focus.

“Our plan is to develop talent looking at all aspects of performance, hopefully prepare youngsters for a career in golf and above all give them skills through golf that they can use throughout their lives.”

Tom’s book Just Help Yourself published at the end of June focuses on a common sense psychology approach to dealing with stress and solving problems. Using tips that Tom has picked up in more than 15 years of working with top sporting professionals and business owners, the book gives readers practical advice and support to help them overcome life’s challenges.

Don’t miss the chance to learn from the man that Terry Butcher, former England captain and manager of Inverness Caledonian Thistle wishes he’d known sooner: “Tom has a knack of breaking big problems into smaller, manageable ones using a positive approach and, in many cases, basic common sense. I just wish I’d had someone like Tom to help me in this way earlier in my career.”

THIRD Thursday’s remain at the core of the chamber’s events programme but with a fresh approach to increase and enhance member involvement and benefit.

These will now be held at lunchtime in a destination venue from the start of the new chamber year in August – and what a location we have for the first one – the exclusive Loch Lomond Golf Club near Luss.

That’s followed in September with a visit to the River City set and production facilities at the BBC’s Lomondgate studios in Dumbarton. Last time this was a sell out so book early to be sure of a place.

There will also be a chance to socialise and network informally at Second Tuesday evening events with a meal and a drink in a local restaurant or hotel.

The first of these will be held in the Indian Cottage restaurant in Kirkintilloch on August 9 – members can enjoy a buffet meal and two drinks and can bring along a guest if they wish.

The 13 September Second Tuesday event will give members the chance to find out more about the new chamber benefits package while they enjoy a sail on Loch Lomond aboard the luxurious Silver Dolphin courtesy of Sweeney’s Cruises.

The refitted River Thames boat has previously played host to HRH the Prince of Wales, Sir Michael Caine, Alan Rickman and Sir Elton John.

A fork buffet and glass of wine will be served on the newest addition to Sweeney’s fleet which is available exclusively for private hire for corporate, weddings and other events.

Events Diary... august

september

october

Tuesday 9 August 6.30pm – 9pm

Tuesday 13 September 6pm for 6.30pm prompt – 9pm

Tuesday October 11 6.30pm – 9pm

2nd Tuesday: Indian Cottage, Kirkintilloch G66 1QD

2nd Tuesday: Loch Lomond Cruise Aboard Silver Dolphin

Cost: £15 members/£20 nonmembers (+VAT)

Depart from Sweeney’s Cruises Ticket Office at Balloch G83 8SS.

Get together and network with fellow chamber members and guests over some delicious spicy food at the renowned Indian Cottage restaurant in Kirkintilloch.

Cost: £25 members/£30 nonmembers (+VAT)

Bookings must be confirmed and paid for by noon on Friday 5 August.

Socialise and find out more about the new chamber benefits package while enjoying a sail on Loch Lomond aboard the luxurious Silver Dolphin.

Thursday 18 August 12pm – 2.30pm

A fork buffet and glass of wine will be served on the newest addition to Sweeney’s fleet.

3rd Thursday: Business and Sport: The Elixir of Life?

Bookings must be confirmed and paid for by noon on Tuesday 6 September.

Loch Lomond Golf Club, Luss, by Alexandria G83 8NT Cost: £25 members/£35 guests (+VAT) Sandwich lunch, scones, tea/coffee included Hear top sports psychologist Tom Lucas explain why the right attitude is key to getting what you want in sport, in business and in life.

Thursday 15 September 12pm – 2.30pm

3rd Thursday: Guided Tour of BBC Scotland Studios and River City Set BBC Production facility at Lomondgate, Dumbarton G82 2QW.

2nd Tuesday: TBC Thursday 19 October 12pm – 2.30pm

3rd Thursday: TBC

other events Wednesday 28 September 11am – 6pm

B2B Showcase The Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre, Clydebank G81 4SA. FREE With 45+ exhibitors from blue chips to SMEs, seminars and guest speakers, this event is a must.

Mini speed networking and meet the buyers sessions. Must be prebooked.

Display your business information on the Business Wall for FREE! Register to attend at http:// dunbartonshirebusinessshow. eventbrite.com. Pre-book events by emailing janet@eventsforbusiness. co.uk.

With an introduction by wellknown golfer, Gordon Sherry plus a location with the wow factor, this is an event not to be missed.

Cost: £16 members/£20 nonmembers (+VAT)

Expect an insight into how to psyche yourself for success and practical advice on achieving your goals.

Essential for golfers and non-golfers alike.

Find out what goes on behind the scenes at the Scottish soap, marvel at how lifelike the fictional Shieldinch really is, visit the sets where Garrow’s Law, Personal Affairs, Hope Springs, How Not To Live Your Life, Eagle of the Ninth and The Deep were filmed.

BOOKING FOR CHAMBER EVENTS

Last time this event sold out and places are limited so book early to be sure of a place. Bookings must be confirmed and paid for by noon on Thursday 8 September.

If you want your event listed email: editor@incommerce.biz

Bookings must be confirmed and paid for by Friday 12 August but hurry - places ARE limited – first come, first served.

Sandwich lunch, tea/coffee included Book online at www.dunbartonshirechamber.com or phone our events team on 0141 280 0272

51

New Members

Photo by Margaret Darroch, Absolut Cupcakes.

ABSOLuT CuPCAKES

A HOBBY turned into a business for Margaret Darroch when she realised the potential of home-baked, hand decorated cupcakes.

An Absolut Cupcakes speciality is its fabulous vintage afternoon tea party with beautiful bone china from a bygone era.

She started off baking for family and ended up making bespoke cupcakes for the Miss Scotland final last month having broken into the corporate event market.

In addition to weddings and corporate events, Absolut Cupcakes also organises themed parties including hen nights, birthday celebrations and baby showers.

Following redundancy from her job as an account director with an advertising agency in 2009, Margaret seized the opportunity to do something completely different.

Margaret Darroch, Absolut Cupcakes.

Her cakes are all hand-made and designed to suit the occasion. Margaret consults with clients to identify themes, which make her cupcakes special and unique.

BELVOIR LETTInGS

BELVOIR Lettings specialises in renting good quality accommodation to good quality tenants.

By focussing on letting, Belvoir ensures its independence when it comes to property appraisals and that the whole process is made simple and clear for landlords and tenants.

Photo courtesy of Belvoir Lettings.

Owner Sharon Walker personally manages all the essential aspects of the business, under licence from Belvoir Property Management (UK) Ltd, operating to the highest standards of professional conduct.

Photo courtesy of Business Doctors.

Belvoir provides all the essential services required for a letting agency and is one of the largest and fastest growing franchises in the UK with more than 140 offices.

Belvoir Lettings Glasgow North, 563 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow G11 6HU. T: 0141 337 3395 F: 0141 339 4306 E: glasgownorth@belvoirlettings.com W: www.belvoirlettings.com

She bought the franchise in April 2009 and, together with business development manager Maureen Ferris, makes it a priority to get to know landlords and tenants personally to ensure a high level of customer service.

BuSInESS DOCTORS

52

T: 07792737519 E: margaret@absolutcupcakes.co.uk W: www.absolutcupcakes.co.uk FB: www.facebook.com/absolutcupcakes

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Our framework is successful and realistic in encouraging business owners to think strategically and act effectively to realise attainable goals.

We will:

Our added values services are competitively priced. Please call me to arrange a mutually convenient time for us to hold an informal, exploratory meeting.

•

Help you increase sales revenue;

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Our proven model provides the foundation to help you achieve your objectives.

Gordon Barraclough, Business Doctors M: 07803 586180 T: 0845 293 8460 E: gordonb@businessdoctors.co.uk W: www.businessdoctors.co.uk.

CLYDEBAnK CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY

CLYDEBANK Co-operative Society recently celebrated its 130th anniversary and is one of only two remaining independent retail co-operative societies in Scotland, maintaining its prime community purpose.

Clydebank Co-op is locally owned by its members and is committed to offering quality goods and services at affordable prices to its customers.

Photo by Sean Hegarty.

By embracing the traditional values and the principles of a real co-operative, it strives to enhance the lives of its employees, members and of families living in the area.

The Co-op takes great pride in its service and always aims to achieve best value for its customers.

Clydebank Co-op, 2 Sylvania Way, Clydebank, G81 1EA. T: 0141 952 2000 E: enquiries@realco-op.co.uk W: www.realco-op.co.uk.

The successful community business comprises seven food stores, its flagship department store at Sylvania Way, three post offices, a funeral home at Hume Street and non-trading

THE LOCAL BOOKKEEPER GLASGOW nORTH

THE Local Bookkeeper Glasgow North is owned and managed by Fiona Benham who has more than 20 years experience in the accounting sector.

It is part of a leading, national bookkeeping and management accounting service and was set up locally by Fiona in January 2008.

Photo courtesy of Fiona Benham

The firm provides a range of services including bookkeeping, management accounts, VAT returns, payroll, self assessment tax returns and credit control services.

Fiona’s aim is to enable clients to focus on running their own businesses and to reduce accountancy fees by ensuring that bookkeeping is done to the requisite standard and meets required regulations.

JOHn CuMMInG WEALTH MAnAGEMEnT

Photo courtesy of St. James’s Place.

property interests, all of which are supported by a dedicated management team and by more than 230 employees.

REVIEWING spending and ensuring investments are performing is vital in times of financial uncertainty.

Many people don’t benchmark their financial products. Some lose touch with their original advisers or don’t analyse performance which can lead to disappointing long term results.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Much of my time is spent reviewing clients’ existing plans, creating bespoke strategies to improve and enhance their investments.

I specialise in giving financial advice to SMEs and owner managed businesses.

An initial, no obligation, free consultation is offered when rates and services can be discussed.

Fiona is a member of The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers – the largest bookkeeping institute in the world.

Fiona Benham, The Local Bookkeeper Glasgow North, The Financial Management Centre, Glasgow.

T: 0141 530 7304 E: fiona.benham@tfmcentre.co.uk W: http://glasgownorth.tfmcentre.co.uk

I have 25 years’ experience in financial services and am qualified to Chartered Insurance Institute Advanced Financial Planning Certificate standard.

John Cumming is an appointed representative of St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc, Minerva House, 131-133 Minerva Street, Glasgow G3 8LE. T: 0141 304 1700 M: 07500 134295 E: john.cumming@sjpp.co.uk.

It is vital to proactively manage resources and suggest appropriate investment strategies for individuals and their businesses.

53

New Members LSD MEDIA LTD

LSD Media Ltd is a PR and marketing agency that creates, builds and maintains the reputation of its clients by targeting the most effective medium.

Whether you need sales, marketing or public relations expertise, LSD Media is an experienced provider of outsourced solutions and services.

It can strategically plan where promotional or marketing efforts will help you reap the most reward.

Managing director, Lynne Somerville, has more than 10 years B2B and B2C sales experience with media products and services including magazines, outdoor advertising, financial and property sales.

OTACS

OTACS is a dynamic provider of a wide range of occupational health and employment services led by experienced consultant physician Dr David Haldane.

After qualifying in general practice, he undertook specialist training in occupational medicine.

An accredited specialist, he is a member of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine as well as a graduate member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.

OTACS provides an expert tailored, high quality occupational health service.

Lynne has advertising agency experience and has worked on media start-ups.

She was an account management for both small and large blue chip companies and has dealt with brands such as Brylcream, Sarah Lee and Blink TV as well as with local independent businesses.

LSD Media Ltd T: 0800 998 7957 E: hello@lsdmedia.org W: www.lsdmedia.org

It can advise on the applicability of the Equality Act 2010 and deliver industry relevant and bespoke training packages across all areas of its expertise. If required these can be at a clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premises for maximum costeffectiveness.

Dr David Haldane, OTACS, PO Box 2839, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 9DA. Mob: 07709 976585 E: info@otacs.co.uk W: www.otacs.co.uk

It has extensive experience in both public and private sectors including in specialist areas such as hand-arm vibration, ionising radiation, lead, and asbestos.

WRIGHT TAXIS

WRIGHT Taxis launched with 15 vehicles from premises in Bank Street, Alexandria on 1 June 2009.

It now has more than 40 drivers on the road and took over the phone numbers of Castle Cabs in Dumbarton last year to extend its coverage of the area.

The brainchild of local businessman Allan Wright and his accountant and fellow director John McEwan, the firm came grew from unsuccessful bids for Leven Taxis and TOA. The booking office is open 24 hours, seven days a week, and state-of-the-art telecom and mobile communications equipment is installed in every car.

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a free ring back service for clients and a Freephone at Iceland in Alexandria.

Coverage includes Alexandria, Cardross, Dumbarton, Helensburgh and surrounding areas with four to seven seater and wheelchair accessible vehicles available.

Account clients are welcome with discounts for chamber members on airport and long distance hires.

Wright Taxis T: 01389 721020 Wright Cabs T: 01389 761111

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Come and join The De Vere Club and you can have a complimentary fourball on us worth up to 40 points!* The best just got better...golf membership from just £295!

Golf at The Carrick on Loch Lomond has just moved to the next level with the introduction of Spa and Leisure now available through De Vere Club membership.

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