F&dp issue 4 2014

JBR Roofing is a family run business experienced in providing a wide range of roofing services.

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Inside this issue...

What’s on Summer Recipes Competition and much more...

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2014 issue 04

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THE FALKIRK & DISTRICT POST

THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

Welcome to our readers A big ‘Hello’ to our Summer Edition No. 4, 2014! Summer has arrived, bringing with it at least some warm and sunny weather, getting us all in the mood for BBQs in the garden during those long, light evenings, and planning some relaxing family time during our summer holidays, whether at home or abroad.

All of our advertisers wish to thank you, our readers, for the support you have shown them over the past year.

the back of the magazine where you can find contact details for those emergency contacts and reliable tradespeople and professionals.

In this edition, we have some new features as well as a competition with a superb prize. To enter the competition, simply answer the easy question on Page 18.

The answer will feature within the magazine. Remember that this is your magazine and we are, as always, delighted to receive your stories, recipes, etc., for inclusion in our next edition.

Have a great summer…from all the team at The Falkirk and District Post.

David, Editor

Please keep each edition handy for future reference, somewhere safe. There is a ‘useful numbers’ page at

Contact us at.

07772 591101 info@falkirkanddistrictpost.co.uk www.falkirkanddistrictpost.co.uk

CONTENTS Keeping your pet heathly ............... pg 6 The death of money......................... pg 10 Be more dolphin .............................. pg 16 Competition ..................................... pg 18 Trusty Trades (part 1) ...................... pg 20-21 Get the most out of your hobby ..... pg 26

Start a new career ............................ pg 30 Trusty Trades (part 2) ...................... pg 34-35 Affordable art .................................. pg 37 What’s on ......................................... pg 38 Summer recipes ............................... pg 44-45 Useful numbers................................ pg 46

like us on

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THE FALKIRK FALKIRK AND AND DISTRICT DISTRICT POST POST THE

Keeping your pet healthy Everyone with pets, whether dogs or cats, needs to have a veterinary surgeon to turn to in an emergency. They do a wonderful job, and you should never ignore a pet’s suffering.

CATS Cat health is strongly affected by what kitty eats.

Obesity is a major factor and heart disease particularly as your cat gets older. Choose a pet food for your cat that is right for its age but feed it regularly.

Longhaired cats should be groomed regularly for optimum cat health. Use a pet brush and groom no less than once a week. This is a great way to bond with kitty!

High Street, Alloa 01259 212 295

The litter box can be a danger to both cat health and human health if it isn’t cleaned regularly. Change your pet’s litter no less than once every four days or more remembering to clear the tray of faeces, since cats are very clean animals and can smell up to 10 times better than humans!

Stressful situations like moving, travelling, natural disasters or even changes in the family can affect cat health as cats are very sensitive creatures. To minimize the effects of stress on your pet, ask your vet or pet store what to recommend to slightly sedate kitty.

Cat nip is always a good option, when cat eats this plant it acts as a sedative.

Part of managing cat health is making sure dangerous poisons like antifreeze are inaccessible to your pet just as you would with your own toddler. Some household plants are fatal to cats so make sure to raise your plants and lock your toxins!

Cats are clean animals as they spend a large amount of time grooming themselves each day. In the majority of cases, cats lead a very happy and long life without too many problems. They don’t cost very much because cat food and litter are very cheap. They don’t require as many vet visits for routine shots either like dogs do which can become quite expensive.

DOGS Veterinary experts assert that dogs have allergies too.

One of the primary signs of allergies is the itching of their skin. Their respiratory tract system can also be affected with allergies. There are also allergies that may have an effect on their digestive system; hence, it may result in watery stools, diarrhea, or vomiting.

An important part of good dog care is keeping tabs on the health of your dog. Providing healthy food, taking time to let your dog run outside, making regular visits to a groomer to get haircuts and baths, and of course seeing a veterinarian are all parts of good dog care.

Would you be able to administer basic first aid if you needed to?

Something can happen at virtually any time at home or away from home. You should have with you a first aid kit that is designed for your pet in mind. If you take your pet away from home frequently, make sure to store the first aid kit in your car as well.

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

the design you need print design photography logos video branding web content 01259 928 242 info@tinybigdesign.co.uk

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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www.healingpaths.co.uk 8 | Issue 4 2014

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

Are we witnessing the death of money?

Money is taken for granted. We put our hands in our pockets or purse and pull out a five pound note in exchange for some item for our consumption. We never think that the person on the other end of the exchange would refuse the bargain.

Money represents a debt which is owed to us by our bank and when we pass money to someone in exchange for an item we are passing ownership of that debt to someone else. So money is a store of value and a medium of exchange. But what if the person with whom we wished to enter a bargain had no trust in our five pound note? Would they then refuse the bargain?

Flat money (a medium of exchange based entirely on trust and subject to the Government who issues it) is not underpinned by any asset of value. The money you earn as a result of your employment (this really is compensation for your time) does not physically exist in your bank account. It is represented by an electronic entry on a computer. The money itself does not belong to you as it belongs to the bank, until you draw on it.

So, two things really matter when it comes to trust and your money. The first revolves around the strength of

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your bank and the second revolves around the market’s belief in the Government.

While it is true to say that flat money has served us well up until now, it is also true to say that we are in the middle of a vast financial experiment and nobody can say with any certainty how it will play out. The financial experiment is of course quantitative easing or QE for short. It sounds so technical and yet it is really about the creation of money out of thin air. To take an example of how QE affects the average person. Let us assume that there are £10 million pounds in circulation and the value of £1 is £1. If the Government “prints” another £10 million pounds out of thin air, we now have £20 million in circulation but still only worth £10 million. In other words the pound has fallen in real value by 50%. As QE continues, further weakening of sterling may occur.

For now, the real issue is for how long the markets will hold their belief in the UK Government and their promises. If sterling becomes valueless, then indeed our money will die as it has with so many previous civilisations.

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Be less of an octopus… be more dolphin instead!

A question for business owners….Do you ever feel like you are an octopus, trying to keep a hold of everything and constantly juggling business activities – and that there is never enough time in the day? Sounds familiar?

Well you are not alone!

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way.

If you have staff working for you, you can get them to work with you. In fact if you can get this to happen, you will not only end up getting more work done, but will also have people around you who are more motivated and committed to your collective success as a business. You really can be ‘less octopus’ and ‘more dolphin’ – in other words, you can let go of some things and get more help from the members of your team or ‘pod’!

This short piece is not just pious advice though: I have been as guilty as the next person of taking on too much in my own business…I have until recently been an octopus too. Quite simply, I’ve taken too much on in the past. It’s only been by bringing another person in that I have truly learnt how to see things differently and ‘free up’ more time to do some of the key things I should have been doing before – like getting out more and meeting people, for instance! It’s about being the ‘face’ of the business – and you can’t be that if you are buried in the sand, with just your eyes looking up!

Sometimes, freeing up your time can be about taking the first big step and employing someone, as I have just done. This can be flexible too: you might consider sharing a member of staff with another business.

This new way of doing things is a great arrangement for me and for Caitlin Campbell, who is now working with me on a part-time basis and, through networking with me, has obtained additional work with another company for the remainder of her week.

As a recent business graduate, Caitlin has given me an insight into the latest ideas coming out of business schools; in return, she gets first-hand experience of working in HR. I feel I have emerged from the sea bed and transformed from an octopus into a lithe dolphin swimming with another dolphin! I was Head of HR in a company for nine years, but working in your own business is completely different…

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If you think you may be an octopus too, don’t despair! There are plenty of things you can do to take the pressure off and give other people more ‘ownership’ of their work and workplace. A starting point is to invite staff to come up with ideas for improving business processes, and offer prizes.

By getting to know people, and what interests them outside their work, you can uncover their ambitions for the future and their range of talents. You could even find that they are much better than you are at so many things that you have been keeping to yourself. Having this knowledge about other people means that you can think about coaching and developing them to meet their ambitions and potential – with massive benefits to you and your business.

So if you need help with any of this and could use more time for the big issues in your business, why not get in touch for a chat and a coffee to see just what you might be able to achieve? Why not uncurl a tentacle and give me a call on 01324 628676 or 01324 614076. Greig Melville HR, Falkirk Business Hub, 45 Vicar Street, Falkirk FK1 1LL.

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www.TrustyTrades.co.uk

“TrustyTrades” is a Free Local Service MORLAND & MARTIN LTD (Heating, Gas & Electric Boilers, Plumbing) Gas Safe Registered. Est 1981.

Office: 01324 625924 (9.00am – 1.00pm) “replaced all radiators (& disposed of old ones), replaced gas pipe, did all gas checks, installated a Magnaclean unit and a new thermostat/timer, and plumbed in an American style fridge/freezer. Ross and his guys did a great job upgrading and modernising the central system. This is the 3rd property I’ve had the guys out to. They are a pleasure to deal with, very professional, timely, diligent, and tidy. I wouldn’t hesitate for a second in calling them out again“ A1 PEST SERVICE (Mice, Rats, Squirrels, Wasps, Ants, Flies, Moths, Birds, Fleas, Cockroaches, Bed Bugs) *10% Discount if you mention TRUSTYTRADES, Limited time only.* Nick Finnegan - 07971 460442 or 08450 034042 (Local rate) “...has done our inspections and pest control work for a while now and I can’t recommend him highly enough. He’s reliable, friendly and he gets on with the job. I’d say the service he provides is fantastic and he’s very trustworthy. I recently sent him to my mother’s friend who had an infestation and he sorted the problem very quickly.”

WILSON BUILDING SERVICES (Newbuilds, Extensions, Conversions, Stoneworks, Kitchens) (Alan Wilson - 07849 173230) “I’ve just had my old drive way removed and repaved by Alan Wilson. I can’t praise this man’s work enough it was expertly done to a very fine finish. It has transformed the front of the house no end. He cleaned up after him and his price was very reasonable. If you want a builder I highly recommend Alan Wilson. I will be using him again in the near future.”

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Back in 2011, I’d given up my banking job and had started renting out a few houses locally, so I often needed tradesmen for repairs.

That meant scanning the Falkirk Herald and taking pot luck – not knowing if (as an older female) I could be easy prey for a cowboy.

Then I joined a group of accredited landlords in Falkirk. We shared our good tradesmen which was a great help to me.

I had an elderly neighbour in her 80’s who would phone me when she needed work done, as she lived alone and felt really vulnerable. So I’d suggest a tradesman for her.

I realised that there must be many other people like us, and that’s when I thought about creating “TrustyTrades” which everyone could use.

To begin with, friends and neighbours gave me details of their good tradesmen and I put them on the website.

ANDY BALLANTINE SERVICES (Repairs cookers, washing machines, hoovers, Tvs....and more. Installs Aerials & Satellites & runs cables to link systems) “No Fix No Fee” Andy - 07933 158131 “Highly recommend Andy Ballantine who has just finished re-positioning satellite cables for me and re-positioning t.v for me great no problems very reasonable and very helpful. Great”

Find, Rate and Nominate Good Local Tradesmen

run by Lynn Hunter (Grangemouth) Now all new tradesmen have to be recommended by a customer and then have 2 references checked before I’ll list them, as I want to know they’re really genuine.

I keep track of how they’re all doing from the regular feedback I get from their customers. And if there’s ever a problem (which is rare), I’m generally the first to know about it and I can help put it right.

I’m very proud that TrustyTrades is helping so many people now.

Here are just a few of my TrustyTradesmen.

There are many more, so feel free to use TrustyTrades at any time, or call me and I’ll be happy to give you their contact details.

Contact Lynn: 07402 827853 (mobile) 01324 473731 (home) www.TrustyTrades.co.uk “People Helping People” SAY LANDSCAPING (Slabbing, Chipping, Turfing, Fencing, Decking....) Tobermore Approved Stevie Young - 07891 514042 “Stevie and Robert installed artificial turf, slabs, a retaining wall made from sleepers (including building in a seat) and paths formed using pebbles and aggregate. They were excellent.

Prompt, hard working and very reasonably priced with a good quality finish”

MES2000 (All Property Maintenance Work inc Roofing, Gardening, /Landscaping/ & Handyman) James McDonald - 07801 287808 “I recommend MES2000 to anyone needing repairs completed whether this is painting and decorating, electrical work, carpet fitting, garden maintenance or any other repairs..After an ex tenant left a lot of damage in my property James came out to visit the property to discuss the repairs.... I needed a trustworthy company as I live elsewhere. James sent me before and after pictures and communicated regularly . He provided me with the cost of repair before starting the work and there were no hidden costs. They carried out all the work within a very reasonable time, kept me updated with what work had been done on each day and have been nothing but professional” KM JOINERY Kitchen Fitting, Fences, Decking, Flooring, Doors. All kinds of repairs, maintenance & insurance work. (Kevin McElroy 07813 878867) “K M Joinery (Kevin) is a joiner who will quickly come to look at the job, state what needs to be done,when he will do it and give you a fair price. He will complete the job on the day he states. So if you want someone reliable and a good tradesman you need to look no further than K M Joinery!”

A.R.B. DECOR (Painting, Decoratorating and Ames Taping -Inside & Outside. Private or Commercial) Alain Ballantine - 07714 525754 “Hi there just had Alain in from A.R.B Decor to do my staircase..He made a outstanding job stripping walls, painting ceiling and glossing a lot of woodwork then re-papering..First class guy and a first class job. Best man for your house and money by far !!! Thanks Alan!”

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

WANT TO GET FRESH? THEN VISIT THE FALKIRK FIRST FRIDAY

HELD ON THE FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH IN THE HIGH STREET 12 - 4PM Visit Falkirk’s famous First Friday Farmers’ Market and stock up on fabulous goodies brought straight from the countryside to Falkirk by some of the country’s leading producers. Produce available will include: mouth-watering beef, pork and venison, sensational seafood, dairy, organic and gluten free produce, vegetables, plus a range of locally made crafts.

For details of all our producers and the dates for the 2014 markets please visit

www.falkirkdelivers.com

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LIVE AT THE AUGUST FARMERS’ MARKET Bringing the magic, history and beauty of fruit and vegetables, animals and minerals to the world.

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

Klassy Kards, here to help you get the best out of your hobby.

At Klassy Kards, we offer a wide range of card making and scrapbooking goodies at competitive prices.

These are available in our Online Store or from our shop at 4 York Square Grangemouth.

Beginners - looking to take up card making as a new hobby.

Intermediate - You have bought all the kit and are now wondering what to do with it all.

Experienced - You already make cards but are keen to find out about new products and learn new techniques as they come along.

Whether you are looking for a new pastime, seeking new techniques to enhance your existing skills,

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or just looking to spend a fun time with like-minded crafters, we have the card classes for you.

Card-Making We provide classes in card making which use various techniques including, Stamping, Inking, Decoupage, Die Cutting, Stencils, Embossing, etc.

The cost of your class will be £8, in each class we will make 2 cards, with a break for Tea/Coffee & Biscuits after the 1st card is complete.

All equipment and materials are provided.

For more information contact. Caroline on 07772 091975. Classes are held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Evenings. Some spaces are available.

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

Start your new career

At The Nail & Beauty Training Academy we believe in providing outstanding training and education in nails and beauty therapy.

We provide the highest quality, short term, intensive nail & beauty therapy training courses by training HABIA nail & beauty standards in our courses. During every course, emphasis is placed on practical work in small groups where each student receives a great deal of individual attention and there is a lot of opportunity to ask questions. Our students say they are delighted at how quickly they learn and how confident and competent they feel after just a few days.

We have courses running in our dedicated training academy in Falkirk, using the latest quality products and equipment essential for today’s professional therapist. Following successful completion of your training you will be awarded an ABT accredited certificate allowing you to obtain insurance and start working.

We also offer a selection of more advanced beauty courses that enable those already skilled in the industry to further their abilities. Our beauty training courses often attract a number of qualified therapists who wish to add to their repertoire and offer their clients a more extensive selection of treatments.

Whatever it is that you wish to do after your beauty training, you can rely on The Nail & Beauty Training Academy to give you the best possible start in the wonderful business of Beauty, Nails and Make-Up. Ever dreamed of starting your own business? Well we can help you make your dreams come true. At the Academy we also run a business start-up course that

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will give you the knowledge you need to get set up and tips on advertising and marketing to your customers. We can also put you in touch with the right people that can help you secure grants and low interest loans for business start-up.

Stacie will be your tutor thorough your training. Stacie is a qualified beauty therapist & beauty teacher, who has worked in the nail and beauty industry for over 10 years. Stacie was the owner and head therapist of Glow Hair Nails & Beauty Falkirk town centre for 6 years and has been giving lots of beauty therapy students work experience each year in her salon. In 2011 she won Scottish beautician of the year at the SECC girls’ day out show in Glasgow. Stacie has a vast knowledge in beauty therapy and a wide range of helpful techniques to share with you.

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www.TrustyTrades.co.uk

“TrustyTrades” is a Free Local Service CUTHILL CLEANING SERVICES (Carpets & Suites – Domestic & Commercial) (Graeme Cuthill - 07974 797273 “Since we started our cleaning business we have always stayed away from carpet cleaning. Two weeks ago a regular customer asked for two properties carpets to be cleaned. I contacted Graeme and the quality of the service and the clean was excellent. I would highly recommend Graeme to anybody needing carpets cleaned to a exceptional high standard. He is honest and most important reliable. Well done Graeme keep up the good work.”

DOLLARD PLUMBING Full bathrooms fitted (all trades available), Repairs & Maintenance, No job too small Frank Dollard - 07984 378624 “Dollard Plumbing – Frank fitted our bathroom to a very high standard. They were very efficient and kept the area clean and tidy after each visit and provided us with a very good joiner (KM Joiners) for wall coverings and finishing touches.

An excellent service provided.”

THE VITAL SPARK Electrician Scott Gray - 07814 005941 “Scott Gray of “The Vital Spark” recently carried out some upgrading of my plugs and sockets, as well as replacing and fitting a new doorbell and outside lights. He knew immediately exactly what I required. Scott is an extremely personable man and carried out the work very quickly and efficiently. I can thoroughly recommend Scott and will not hesitate to use his services again.”

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How do I know I can trust a “TrustyTradesman”?

Each one is recommended to me by one of their customers first. Then I check a further 2 customer references. Finally I meet the tradesmen to set out expectations before adding them. After that I get regular feedback from their customers so I know they’re doing a good job.

What if I don’t have access to the website?

Both my home and mobile numbers are printed below. Call me and I’ll be happy to provide tradesmen’s names and numbers.

Is TrustyTrades a big company?

No. It’s just me. I run TrustyTrades from my home. It keeps costs down for the tradesmen and keeps it free for customers to use.

BRYAN PEARSON (STONEMASON) New and Restoration Work. Paving, Pointing, Walling, Limework. Free Estimates Bryan - 07799 221773 “I required a wall to be constructed creating a rockery in my front garden. I contacted Mr Pearson who came along when arranged, he gave me a quote and we agreed a price. He turned up when he said he would come, left all areas tidy during the job and when he left, he also re-laid mono blocking which had been disturbed during the works. The wall he constructed in a tradition style with old fashioned coping stones is fantastic!

He completed the job on time and at a very reasonable price. I would have no hesitation in recommending this tradesman”

Find, Rate and Nominate Good Local Tradesmen

run by Lynn Hunter (Grangemouth) What if I want to suggest a tradesman to add to TrustyTrades?

There’s a “Recommend/Contact” tab on the website. Just click that and complete the wee form with the tradesman and why you’re recommending him. Or call me on one of the numbers below.

Contact Lynn: 07402 827853 (mobile) 01324 473731 (home) www.TrustyTrades.co.uk “People Helping People”

A.R.P.M. ROOFING (All roofing & Gutter work. Domestic & Commercial. Exterior Painting & Timber Work & UPVC Roof Line FREE ESTIMATES (Alex Rowan - 07977 774727) “My parents needed their garage re-roofed and had got a quote from a roofer (not on TrustyTrades. It was expensive so I looked on TrustyTrades and checked the feedback. Decided to try Alex Rowan (ARPM) for a quote and then get a couple of others. Alex came out and quoted half of what the first roofer had wanted to charge. He was so good with my parents that he got the job there and then. We were delighted with the end result and he tidied up everything afterwards. I can’t recommend Alex highly enough.”

WILLIAM McMILLAN (Roughcasting, Plastering, Roof & Gutter Repairs, UPVC Roof Line, 25+ years experience) (Willie - 07890 532650) I”’ve Just had Willie McMillan to roughcast garage and retaining garden wall. Also removed and replaced the chips.Cleaned up after, hosing down paths etc. Delighted with the finished job and would have no hesitation in recommending Willie and his men.”

JAMES DAWSON (JOINER) (Handmade Canopies, Velux Windows, Interior Doors & Laminate Flooring, Loft-Hatch Alterations with Ladders, Sliding Mirror Doors, Double Glazed Units Replaced, Reseal Existing Windows - Inside & Out) Jim - 07858 757941 “Had James Dawson in to do a 3rd and much larger job for me, replacing all windows and several internal jobs. Absolutely delighted again.

Excellent workman, honest, reliable, trustworthy.

Would highly recommend”

DEREK BRYCE (Electrician) Domestic & Commercial, 24 hour call out, Inspection & Testing (inc PAT Testing), All aspects of electrical work, Consumer Unit Replacements, Rewiring Derek - 07765 864932 “I recently had my shower replaced by Derek Bryce. I phoned Derek in the evening and he came out the next evening. Having agreed the replacement required he went out of his way to collect the replacement and I was up and running the next day. Derek was easy to speak to and I found his charges very reasonable. I will have no hesitation in using his services again”

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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Almond Road, Middlefield, Falkirk, FK2 9HQ Tel: 01324 673100 36 | Issue 4 2014

THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

A must-see for anyone that’s interested in affordable art.

The Port Gallery at Auchinstarry Marina in Kilsyth is quickly getting recognised as one of the best Art Houses in Scotland. Owned and personally run by Dorothy Clelland and her team of John, Amy, Lynn and Maureen it is clear to see the passion for all the Art and Artists work displayed in beautifully kept surroundings showing each piece of art to its full advantage.

Jack Vettriano is prominent in the collection. Gallery owner Dorothy Clelland said: “Most people interested in art recognise ‘Love’ as a recurring theme in his paintings. As an artist he is instantly recognised and this creates a keen interest which means we have been exceptionally busy framing a wide range of Vettriano prints. As well as prints we do have limited editions available to purchase at exceptional prices.

The Port Gallery at Auchinstarry Marina has a large display of Vettriano prints to respond to the enthusiastic interest shown by so many visitors keen to have one of these much sought-after items framed.

Vettriano limited editions start from an exceptionally reasonable £395, framed with a double mount and are highly sought after and will enhance any home

as well as appreciating in value over time.

In addition to the works of Vettriano, we also deal with a number of local artistes and have a good range of original paintings as well as having Jolomos, Daniel Campbell`s, Skeletons and many more. We can offer commissioned work for our clients. This could be somewhere with a special memory which the artist will paint for you. This would make a spectacular gift. Recently we have increased our range of artistic items to feature a versatile range of gifts.

A Recent new range we have introduced is a selection of Scottish soaps. Dot added: “We only opened the gallery last August and it has been an enjoyable interesting and busy time developing our business”.

As well as the Art Gallery and gift range we are able to offer picture framing including family photo`s which can be put on to canvas or acrylic blocks.

Having been framing for over 20 years and been involved with Limited edition printing for over 25 years you can rely on us for the highest standard at very competitive prices including specialist sport memorabilia framing. So why not call in for a browse soon.

I know you’re going to love it.

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To Advertise Please Call 07772 591 101

WHAT’S ON JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER

Monty Python Live (mostly) Hippodrome, Bo’ness Sat 26/07/14 19:00; Sun 20/07/14 19:00 £12.35 (£10.00 conc) tel: 01324 506850 For the first time in more than three decades, comedy legends Monty Python will perform live on stage together this year. Broadcast from London’s O2 Arena, ‘Monty Python Live (mostly)’ will screen live at the Hippodrome Bo’ness on Sunday 20 July, with an Encore on Saturday 26th July. At a combined age of just 358, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin will once again perform some of their greatest hits, with modern, topical, Pythonesque twists. Monty Python are rightfully regarded as among the world’s finest-ever comedians. They influenced a generation and revolutionised comedy. Their eagerly awaited reunion promises to be among the biggest live events of 2014.

Ready, Steady, Show - Musical Madness!

21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th July 2014 at 10:00 Cost: £70 (per week) A week of training in drama, dance and musical theatre culminating with a main stage performance at FTH. Annie, Oliver, Les Miserables, The lion King……What’s your favourite musical? What about it makes you laugh, cry? Do you sing the songs in the shower, on you tube? Join us for one week where we will be exploring the best songs, dances and scenes from some of your favourite musicals. Working with a Director, Choreographer and Musical Director, you will create a brand new piece of Musical Theatre and then perform it on the main stage at FTH on the Friday evening. This is a great way to learn new performance skills in a fun and fast paced environment. No previous experience is required.

Paths of Glory FTH 04/08/14 at 11:00 am tel: 01324 506850 We mark the date 100 years ago in 1914 when Britain declared war on Germany, with a screening of Stanley Kubrick’s controversial (the film was not screened in France until 1975) and remarkable anti-war statement. The film follows the consequences of a morally bankrupt French general’s orders to his troops to seize the heavily fortified ‘Ant Hill’ from the Germans and the subsequent court- martial of three blameless privates. Kirk Douglas is astonishing as the condemned men’s defender in this searing example of Kurbrick’s virtuosity as a filmmaker.

Muiravonside Country Park Hippodrome, Bo’ness April-September: 8.00am - 8.00pm October-March: 8.00am - 5.00pm Muiravonside Country Park is two miles south of Grangemouth and covers 170 acres of woodland and parkland. An old country estate formerly owned by the Stirling family of Falkirk, the Park is free to access and open all-year round. There’s a lot to do with nature trails, picnic sites, play area available throughout the Park. Visitors can follow the River Avon Heritage Trail around the Park past the historic Avon Aqueduct and see the relics of bygone industry and farming. We can also give advice and assistance to schools and groups regarding conservation planning and design. The Park offers panoramic views, a spectacular river gorge and several relics of industrial archaeology, linked by a network of paths through a diverse ground flora. Over 90 species of bird have been recorded. The Countryside Ranger Service was established in 1980 to maintain, manage the woodland, its walks and provide a point of contact for information.

Its other role, education, will try and steer you to experience Muiravonside and nature at its best.

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Your Flooring Expert

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Whether you’re looking for a small car with a big feel or one of our class-leading crossovers, our experienced sales team at SDM Falkirk can help find the model that’s right for you. Find us at Middlefield Industrial Estate or online at sdm-nissan.co.uk

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Summer Berry Fruit Pudding with Fromage Frais Ingredients 100g caster sugar, plus 1 tsp extra Pared zest of 1/2 small lemon 225g raspberries Raspberry Sauce 150g redcurrants, stalks removed, plus extra to decorate (optional) 75g blackcurrants, stalks removed 12 x 20g slices white bread 5cm piece vanilla pod 100g fat-free fromage frais Method How to make summer berry puddings 1. Put 100g sugar, 75ml water and the zest into a pan and bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes and discard the zest .

2. Put 11/2 tablespoons of the syrup into a blender with 50g raspberries and blend until smooth. Push through a sieve to get rid of the seeds. Add the redcurrants and blackcurrants to the syrup in the pan and simmer for 1-2 minutes, until just beginning to soften. Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining raspberries and raspberry sauce.

Tip the fruit into a sieve over a bowl to collect the syrup.

3. Remove the crusts from 8 slices of bread and cut each into 2 rectangles. Cut 4 discs from the remaining slices to the size of one of the upturned dishes you will use for the puddings.

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4. Dip 1 side of each bread rectangle briefly in the syrup and use 4 pieces to line the base and sides of a 200ml dome-shaped teacup or dessert dish, overlapping if necessary so there are no gaps. Repeat to line 3 more cups.

5. Spoon the fruit into each dish and spoon over another teaspoon of the syrup. Dip 1 side of each bread disc into the syrup and use to cover each pudding (syrup side up). Lay a sheet of cling film over each one, cover with saucers or ramekins and weigh down with a can. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight, along with the remaining syrup.

6. Shortly before serving, split the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds with the tip of a teaspoon.

Mix the seeds into the fromage frais, along with the extra sugar. Carefully run a knife around the edge of each pudding and turn out onto plates.

Spoon over the remaining syrup, decorate with extra redcurrants, if you like, and serve with the vanilla fromage frais.

Watermelon-Tequila Cocktail Ingredients 1. 1/4 cup water 2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar 3. 8 cups diced seedless watermelon (1 pound) 4. 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 5. 1 3/4 cups blueberries 6. 3/4 cup lightly packed fresh mint leaves, plus 8 sprigs for garnish 7. 1 1/4 cups silver tequila 8. Ice Method 1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer with the sugar and stir over moderate heat until the sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute; let the sugar syrup cool.

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Halekulani Melon Daiquiri Ingredients 1. 1 1/2 ounces amber rum 2. 1/4 cantaloupe—peeled, seeded and cut into cubes, plus 1 cantaloupe wedge 3. 1 ounce Simple Syrup 4. 1 ounce fresh lime juice 5. Dash of Orange Bitters 6. 6 ounces crushed ice 7. 1 mint sprig Method 1. In a blender, puree all of the ingredients except the cantaloupe wedge and mint sprig. Pour into a snifter and garnish with the cantaloupe wedge and mint sprig.

2. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl and strain the watermelon juice, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp.

3. In a large pitcher, combine the sugar syrup with the lime juice, blueberries and mint leaves. Using a wooden spoon, lightly muddle the blueberries and mint. Add the watermelon juice and tequila. Refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours.

4. Pour the cocktail into tall ice-filled glasses.

Garnish with the mint sprigs and serve.

Tom Terriifific Ingredients 1. Ice 2. 1 1/2 ounces Old Tom gin 3. 1/2 ounce Cherry Heering 4. 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice 5. 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup 6. 2 ounces chilled IPA 7. Lemon wheel, for garnish Method 1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all of the remaining ingredients except the beer and garnish. Shake well and strain into a highball glass.

Top o with the beer and garnish with the lemon wheel.

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USEFUL NUMBERS TRANSPORT First Buses ................................ 0870 8727271 Edinburgh Airport .................. 0844 4818989 Glasgow Airport...................... 0844 5717410 Rail Enquiries ........................... 0845 7484950 Express Taxis ......................... 0500 638000 DOMESTIC SERVICES Florist ........................................ 01324 555 879 Window Cleaner...................... 01324 881 245 Picture Framers ....................... 01324 610 080 Kilt Hire ..................................... 01324 489 196 Cleaners .................................... 01324 406 188 .................................................... 01324 227 489 Carpet Cleaners....................... 01324 881 111 Oven Cleaning......................... 01324 631 656 Blind Cleaner ....................... 01324 410 322 Blinds ........................................ 01324 613 066 .................................................... 07796 760 464 GARDENS & BUILDING SUPPLIES Tree Surgeon ........................... 01506 847 049 .................................................... 01324 829 611 Gardener .................................. 07500 143 565 Artificial Grass Specialist ....... 07976 399 903 TRADESMEN Plant & Tool Hire ..................... 01324 623 234 Tool Repair & Servicing ......... 01324 666 185 Electronic Repairs ................... 01324 611 501 Gas Engineer ........................... 01324 406 011 Plumber .................................... 0800 772 0852 Roofer ....................................... 01324 554 518 Bricklayer ................................. 01324 874 119 Painting & Decorators............ 07887 841 326 Sun Rooms ............................... 01324 720 144 Glazing ..................................... 01324 553 403 .................................................... 01324 610 610 Tiler............................................ 07907 938 946 Handyman ............................... 01259 210 594 Joiner ........................................ 01324 578 491 .................................................... 0800 433 2429 .................................................... 07905 014 975

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Computer Repairs .................. 01324 430 530 Printer ....................................... 01324 636 103 Financial Planners .................. 01324 832 715 Accountant .............................. 01324 633 550 H R Services ............................. 01324 628 676 House Equity Release ............ 01324 559 976 Insurance Agent ...................... 01324 556 414 Dental Technician ................... 01324 622 023 Car Sales ................................... 01324 616 804 Graphic Design........................ 01259 928 242 Meditation Services ............... 07957 469 105 Beauty Salon ........................... 07719 228 470 Nail & Beauty Training ........... 01324 332 013 Relaxation Therapist ............. 01324 554 518 Domestic Appliance Parts .... 01324 622 233 Property Ins claims ................ 01324 409 159 CIVIC Council ...................................... 01324 506 070 Police......................................... 01324 619 379 Police Non Emergency........... 101 Library....................................... 01324 503 605 Post Office ................................ 01324 851 201 Refuse Enquiries ..................... 01324 506 070 Passport Office Falkirk ........... 0870 521 0410 Local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB): CAB Falkirk ............................... 01324 626 070 CAB Grangemouth/Bo-Ness . 01324 483 467 CAB Denny & Dunipace ......... 01324 823 118 Disabled Blue Badge Scheme 01324 506 420 Welfare Benefits Helpline ..... 01324 501 404 Debt Advice Officers .............. 01324 506 735 Central Shop Mobility ........... 01324 630 500 Dial-a-Journey ......................... 01786 465 355 Callendar House...................... 01324 503 770 HEALTH NHS 24 ...................................... 111 F.V.R. Hospital .......................... 01324 566 000 Dental Technician ................... 01324 622 023 EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Services .............. 999 Electricity ................................. 0845 272 7999 Gas ............................................ 0800 111 999 Childline ................................... 0800 11 11 Flooding .................................. 0845 988 1188

for your chance to win a ÂŁ20 M&S voucher Congratulations to our issue 3 winners:

Free Will: Carol Robertson of Larbert

Secret Chefs: Jane Farrell of Polmont.

The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Excepting translations, you may not reproduce our articles online or in print without first obtaining written permission. Please contact the author to obtain his or her written consent. Once you receive permission from the author, contact us to let us know where and when the article will be reprinted. c 2014 Falkirk and District Post.

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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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