224 May 2013 - Gryffe Advertizer

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No.224

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your LOCAL community magazine

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May 2013

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welcome to May 2013 this month....

The closing paragraph in my editorial last month seems to have resulted in a mix of confusion and rapturous laughter; for those left in confusion, I have to apologise.

A competition was proposed, “How long can you sustain a chip on the shoulder?” It would be fair to say that in the following weeks our mailbox did not overfloweth with application form requests. Obviously our readers are far too astute to be drawn into such a nonsensical suggestion and realized it was simply the aspirations of a beleaguered April Fool.

However, there’s no need for make-believe at this time of the year since this is the season of Fun Days and Galas, therefore we’re not short of local events and activities; mostly held on a Saturday, unless otherwise stated...

VILLAGES

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L COMMUNITY OF YOUR LOCA A FREE COPY PLEASE TAKE

And lastly, as a regular reminder, we want to hear from you if you’ve done something wonderful, if you are planning a fund raising event, if you’ve got news to share, or even if you’re looking for help with something. Our readers are always eager to hear what’s happening and eager to help if they can. And the best thing is, there’s no cost from us to do this!

The Advertizer is the ideal platform to communicate with your community as we reach over 14,000 homes and businesses in the Gryffe area.

MAGAZINE

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Next deadline Friday 17th May!

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The Gryffe Advertizer

Send your news and photos to info@ advertizer.co.uk or by post to The Advertizer, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN.

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Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank 26-29 Brookfield, Crosslee & Houston 39-41 Howwood & Elderslie 38 Kilbarchan & Lochwinnoch 34-37 Kilmacolm & Quarriers 30-33

church listings garden & outdoors healthy minds in business it blog karting blog local history local news pets & wildlife schools news sports & clubs news travel blog what’s on

I take this opportunity, on behalf of the whole community, to thank the many dozens of volunteers who freely give up their time throughout the year planning and organising these events. And, if you’re someone who’d like to get involved, then I’m sure you’d be welcomed with open arms ... go on!

No.223

advertiser directory business classified deadlines property classified sales & wants

NEWS & FEATURES

April 2013

ADVERTISING

Apologies if we’ve missed any. If there are no specific details in this issue, we’ll feature more information of the events held in June in our next edition of The Gryffe Advertizer.

unity magazine

Contents

• 11th May: Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show, locally referred to as The Knapps Show (see page 32/59).

• 11th May: Houston Kirk Carnival Day (page 41) • 18th May: Woodlands Nursery (Houston) Fun Day (page 41/47).

• 18th May: Elderslie Kirk Fete (page 38).

• 1st June: Kilbarchan Lilias Day (page 37 & more info next month ).

• 1st June: Houston & Killellan Agricultural Show (page 40).

• 8th June: Bridge of Weir Gala Day & Parade, followed by Gala Week (see next month for details).

• 8th June: Lochwinnoch Gala Day (page 36).

• 15th June: Kilmacolm Old Kirk Fete (page 32).

• 15th June: Bishopton Gala Day, preceded by Gala Week.

• 15th June: Kilbarchan Agricultural Show.

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Don’t live locally but want to read The Advertizer?

U.K. postal subscriptions: 1 year, 12 issue subscription £24 call 01505 613340 or email info@advertizer.co.uk All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.

for a monthly online update, visit us online

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Beware - bogus callers There is a warning out to be aware of bogus workmen in the area. A man called on an elderly lady in Kilmacolm recently offering to tidy up her garden for her. He did a small amount of work for which he charged £500, but gave a receipt for only £50. He then apparently went straight to the bank and cashed the cheque for £500. Be on your guard, and if you have elderly relatives please let them know about this scam.

It’s despicable that people would take advantage of the vulnerable in this way. If you, or someone you know, have experienced this for yourself, please call the police and report the incident.

Visibility Community Support Team Spring Events

Flower & Fabric Festival

Tuesday 14th May, 10am - 1pm, Paisley Town Hall

In celebration of the Abbey’s 850 years, the Abbey Stitchers have been busy at work for some time creating a selection of striking and interesting quilts and hangings which will be displayed alongside floral art arrangements within the beautiful surroundings of the Abbey. Tickets £5 on sale at the Abbey shop or from the Abbey Office at 0141 889 7654 or more information at www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

Products and services to assist people who have a visual impairment.

These are drop in events showcasing products and services which can assist people with a visual impairment. Please call us for more information on 0141 332 4632

Thurday 9th – Saturday 11th May 10am - 4pm daily

Alzheimer Scotland

“Do you have a diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease, Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia or similar illness and you want to have your voice heard to make positive changes to improve services, why not join us?”

The local branch is run voluntarily by carers and those with a diagnosis. Among our aims is to campaign to improve services, raise public awareness, facilitate activities.

We meet in “Your Voice” premises, Clyde Square, Greenock on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1.30pm til 3pm.

Kane’s appeal Kane is a typical 11 year old boy, the only thing that makes him different from his peers is his rare genetic disorder, Li-Fraumeni Syndrome which greatly increases the risk of acquiring many cancers.

Kane has been fighting liver cancer since February 2012 and has been through many horrible sessions of chemotherapy and radiotherapy which effectively shrunk the tumours for a little while, but as they are wrapped around his main arteries they cannot be removed.

This is when Kane’s Wishlist was started to help him achieve his goals and ambitions, from a trip to New York to hitting his brother with a custard pie. With no further treatment available for him in the UK, Kane’s Mother, Gayle, put all remaining wishlist goals on hold and even her own treatment - a double mastectomy, to prevent the return of breast cancer, to travel to Frankfurt, Germany where Kane received one Transarterial Chemoablation Therapy.

Kane needs 5 of these treatments costing £4,000 each. This amounts to a total of £20,000 (without flights and accommodation). His family aren’t receiving any kind of financial help towards this, so they are desperately seeking help from the public. Everyone is hanging onto the possibility of killing the tumour completely as Kane’s health has greatly improved already.

Kane has just completed his seconded treatment and tumour has shrunk 10% his Doctor Dr Vogl says treatment is working.

If you would like to make a donation, please visit Kane’s wishlist on ‘gofundme’ - www.gofundme.com/ kanes-wishlist, or Kane’s wishlist ‘Facebook’ Clydesdale Bank also have an account called ‘I’m Kane’s wishlist’ where you can donate.

Any financial help would be very gratefully received thank you in anticipation.

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Travel Blog

by Maureen Horton of Travel a la Carte

Greetings.......

from the Sultinate of Oman What an interesting place to go to escape the trials of our Scottish winter while experiencing a vibrant, authentic mix of magical Arabia in magnificent constant sunshine.

Tourism to Oman has developed in a measured manner - this is not the place to find endless high rise hotels and glitzy shopping malls. More likely, the pursuits here will be dolphin watching, snorkelling with turtles around deserted coves, walks in dramatic cool mountains discovering ancient forts or enjoying the highlights of Muscat, the capital..... the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the new Royal Opera House or the 900 year old city’s Muttra souk. Safety and cleanliness are assured here in a country with zero unemployment and a tolerant attitude and friendliness to visitors.

We found the Omanis so courteous and they look so distinguished in their national dress.

A range of places to stay have been created by world leaders such as RitzCarlton, Shangri-La, Intercontinental, Hyatt and Marriot, either on the coast or in Muscat itself, all offering wonderful levels of service. Getting there can either be with a direct flight from Glasgow to Dubai and then a 45 minute connecting flight to Muscat; via London Heathrow with Oman Air direct; or BA which stops in Abu Dhabi en route. Oman Air offers free stopovers if connecting to other destinations in their network eg The Maldives or Delhi, so giving the opportunity to enjoy a taster for a few days in either or both directions.

Looking for Choristers Paisley Abbey is looking for new choristers to enrol for their famous choir.

For information please contact Dr George McPhee 0141 889 3528 or profmcphee@aol.com

If you feel like the allure of Arabia...............we can help get you there.

Spring Into Action With LEAP Now we’ve had a few nice days and the gloom of winter seems to be lifting at last, is it time for a ‘Spring Clean’ with LEAP?

Why not spring clean your loft and take the opportunity to check your insulation to make sure it’s thick enough to be ready for next winter, after all, who knows when it will strike!

Spring clean your finances – can you save money on energy? Review your energy bills and have a Home Energy Check with LEAP. Our Home Energy Checks have already saved over 600 households up to 13% on their utility bills through simple inexpensive actions.

Take stock of your car usage. Are you paying for a car that’s spending most of its time sitting outside your house? Get rid of it and join the Car Club. A car just when you need it.

Spring clean your village. Interested in green issues and want to help the villages of Lochwinnoch, Howwood, Kilbarchan and Bridge of Weir reduce their carbon footprint? Why not join our Steering Group. We are looking for new members.

Alternatively, we support a network of local volunteers working to make our villages more sustainable, from food fairs and organic fruit and veg deliveries to work in schools and even community renewable energy generation – so why not get involved.

Spring Clean with LEAP! For more info about any part of the LEAP Project, please contact us at info@myleapproject.org, drop in, or telephone one of our offices: 22 Church St, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4AD, Tel: 01505 842530 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, PA10 2EF, Tel: 01505 706070 Advance Place, Main St, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PB, Tel: 01505 612034

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Silver Anniversary Ball

Friday 10th May, Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow Celebrate 25 years of care for all with St Vincent’s Hospice at the Silver Anniversary Gala Ball hosted by Shereen Nanjiani. Enjoy a night of glitz and glamour starting with a champagne reception followed by a glass of wine, 3 course dinner plus coffee, 15 piece big band and DJ until 1am, plus prizes & surprises throughout the night. Tickets are just £48; reception from 7pm, meal 7.30pm, carriages 1am, dress to impress. A very limited number of tables remain – to reserve/book your tickets email info@svh.co.uk or call 01505 705635.

Tribute Night Friday 7th June

Normandy Hotel Renfrew A showcase of tributes to the stars, including Shania Twain, Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, George Michael and Cher!

Tickets are just £26 which includes a 3 course dinner plus coffee, with tribute acts followed by a DJ to dance the night away to. Book now to avoid disappointment.

To book tickets please contact the Normandy Hotel on 0141 886 4100 or visit www. normandytributes.co.uk/event

Quiz Dinner – New event

Friday 4th Oct at the Holiday Inn at Glasgow Airport.

Enjoy a wonderful 3 course meal, with coffee, while taking part in our celebrity hosted quiz rounds. Your trivia will be tested from sports, television and even some current affairs. Tickets are just £35 making this a fantastic event at a great price! For more information and to book your tickets please contact Ashley on 01505 705635 or at Ashley.moran@svh.co.uk

Friends Groups

As part of our high-profile celebrations we are asking supporters to establish Friends Groups in their local communities.

We would like you to work alongside other members of a Friends Group and commit to four or more fundraising activities per year, for example.

- Sell tickets for the St Vincent’s Hospice official raffle - Assist with one annual door to door collections locally - Run a collection/bag pack at your local supermarket - Represent us at local Gala days and promote St Vincent’s Hospice in the community For more information visit www.svh. co.uk or email info@svh.co.uk.

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Will you help us make a difference?

Can you spare 2 hours to help someone living with a life limiting illness? We have a couple of different collections coming up over the next couple of months which we need volunteer support with:

Door to Door Collections Mon 10th - Sat 15th June – Brookfield, Renfrew, Inchinnan & Houston.

Bag Pack Marks and Spencer, Braehead – Sat 18th May, 10am – 4pm

Bucket collection Braehead Shopping Centre – Sun 2nd June, 10am – 4pm T: 01505 705635 E: ashley. moran@svh.co.uk

Challenge Yourself

One of our brand new events for this year is ‘Challenge 25’; an exclusive weekend cycle and trek on the Isle of Arran. One of the first people to sign up for this was our very own Director of Fundraising & Communications Karen Milne. She has jumped at the chance to get her cycling gear on and put pedal to the metal in aid of St Vincent’s Hospice.

Karen’s enthusiasm has been inspiring lots of supporters to sign up to take part in this fantastic challenge! Places are starting to fill up so if you would like to take part please visit www.svh.co.uk or email info@svh.co.uk for an information pack and booking form.

Barn Tearoom

As of the 22nd May, we will no longer be serving hot meals in the Barn Tea Room. Teas, coffee, cakes, sandwiches and soup will still be available to purchase, alongside our exciting range of vintage goods and furniture.

We wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your continuing support to the Barn and the hospice.

This will help us to continue to care for patients and their families who require our services now and in the future.

Plant Sale Frid 10th May – 6pm – 9pm Frid 17th May – 6pm – 9pm Sat 11th May – 9am – 4pm Sat 18th May – 9am – 4pm Sun 12th May - 10am -4pm Sun 19th May 10am – 4pm Wide variety of bedding Plants at reasonable prices. Tubs & Planters filled for you and advice on suitable plants for your needs.

At Masonic Hall, Glebe Road, Kilmacolm. Lodge Sir Michael No 989

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CARING FOR YOUR SMILE Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner at the new Kilbarchan Dental Practice, shares her top five tips to keep your smile in good order: Watch what you eat “Sometimes it is good to give your teeth a break from the foods that are most likely to stain them. Try to spend a week without having any coffee, cigarettes, red wine, cola or gravy. The simple rule is that if it is dark before you eat it then it is more likely to stain your teeth so cut back on the worst culprits and see what a big difference it will make.”

Try a new toothbrush “Your teeth are designed to last a lifetime but your toothbrush isn’t. Change your toothbrush (or the head of your electric toothbrush) once every three to four months or you are simply transferring bacteria into your mouth while brushing. Some people like to change their brush after they have been ill.”

Clean your tongue as well as your teeth “A tongue scraper is a great way to fight bad breath and make sure that there is no hiding place for germs and bacteria. Brushing your tongue with your toothbrush can also help, but a tongue scraper does a much better job.”

Eat foods that clean your teeth “As well as avoiding food that stains your teeth there are certain foods that improve your dental hygiene. We all know that apples are great for your teeth but so are raw carrots and celery. Popcorn is another natural toothbrush so next time you watch a film, you can clean your teeth at the same time!”

Brush and floss morning and night “This is the most important one. The bacteria in your mouth works most efficiently while you sleep so it is best to clean it all away before you go to bed.

Overnight a film of plaque will develop so a good brush in the morning is key to having a healthy mouth and teeth all day.”

Sheila Macintyre Kilbarchan Dental Practice www.kilbarchandental.co.uk.

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Are you ready to get your wig on for Wig Wednesday?

This May, CLIC Sargent presents Wig Wednesday: one big day when the UK will unite to raise vital funds for children and young people with cancer by getting their wig on!

This exciting new event will take place on Wednesday 22nd May and we would love your company to be part of it.

Everyday, 10 children and young people in the UK hear the shocking news they have cancer. Being diagnosed with cancer is a frightening experience. The gruelling, often life-saving cancer treatment can last up to three years and frequently leads to children and young people losing their hair. CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading charity for young cancer patients and their families and we need your support to help them cope with cancer and get the most out of life.

By encouraging your colleagues in your workplace to get a wig on for Wig Wednesday on 22nd May and simply collecting donations from everyone for taking part, your company can show its support and make a big difference to the lives of thousands of children and young people with cancer.

Getting involved in Wig Wednesday is easy.

Simply sign up online at www.clicsargent.org.uk/ wigwednesday and we will send you a free event pack. Then all you need to do is tell everyone at work to get the date in their diaries and start choosing which wig you’ll wear on the day.

For more information or if you have any questions at all please visit our website or get in touch by calling 0141 572 5700 or emailing wigwednesday@ clicsargent.org.uk.

Please join us by getting your wig on for Wig Wednesday this May and help us make a real difference to the lives of young cancer patients across the UK.

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The Arkleston Singers - Spirit & Purpose

The Arkleston Singers give the first performance in Scotland of Howard Goodall’s latest oratorio, ‘Every Purpose Under The Heaven’, alongside John Rutter’s jazzy interpretation of 7 traditional spirituals, ‘Feel the Spirit’ on Saturday 11th May at Lylesland Church, 123 Rowan St, Paisley PA2 6RZ at 7.30pm. Ken Paterson conducts with soloists Alison McNeill (soprano) and Jamie Munn (tenor) accompanied by The Arkleston Chamber Ensemble. Tickets (£8) available on the door.

t: 01505 613340

Diaporama

At our April meeting, we went to Lanzarote with Val, Bill and Kenny. We visited the fantastic Cactus Garden with its many different species including some in flower, the volcano and its caves and enjoyed some beautiful sea views.

One of the sequences showed the building of houses, swimming pools etc that just stopped - it was like a ghost town with everything - tools, machinery - just abandoned. We had a look at the airport with its museum and ended up with a visit to the area where they made salt. It was a good night and showed a lot of variety of subjects for one island.

Our next meeting is on Monday 13th May at 7.30pm at Kilmacolm Community Centre and is our AGM with a fun competition (open theme).

Every one welcome.

Summer Duplicate

Bridge If you would like to play Bridge during the summer months why not come along to the Kilmacolm Community Centre on Monday evenings?

Starting on 6th May at 7.15pm.

Paisley Abbey 850 Pilgrimage

Come with a partner or come alone and hope to find one there.

The Paisley Abbey 850 Pilgrimage is getting to a point where the end and goal of the monthly walks to Whithorn Abbey, is within sight..

Blood Donor Sessions www.scotblood.co.uk

On Saturday 18th May (not 25th May as previously advertised) the ninth of the Paisley Abbey 850 Pilgrimage walks will set off from Barrhill Memorial Hall on a 13mile walk to New Luce.

Further information Tel: 01505 872345

Tweedie Hall, Ardlamont Square, Linwood Wednesday 1st May – 2pm – 3.45pm & 5.15pm – 7.30pm The Town Paisley

Hall,

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Anyone wishing to join us may visit the Paisley Abbey website www. paisleyabbey.org.uk or phone the office on 0141 8897654 for details

Tuesday 7th May – 2pm – 3.45pm & 5.15pm – 7.30pm

A bus will be taking walkers to the start of the walk at Barrhill Community Centre picking up at Paisley Abbey and St Leonard’s Church in Ayr. The same bus will take walkers from New Luce back to Ayr and Paisley. Looking forward to receiving new participants.

Wednesday 8th May – 2.30pm – 3.45pm & 5.15pm – 7.30pm

Erskine Community Sports Centre, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine

To find out more, please email us at nss.snbtsenquiry@nhs.net or call 08453 017270.

SSAFA Rebrand

From 10th April 2013, the Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Branch of military charity SSAFA Forces Help has changed its name to SSAFA as part of a rebrand aimed at improving awareness of the charity amongst members of the Forces community.

This is particularly important at a local level where SSAFA’s teams of trained volunteers work hard to ensure that help and advice are always close at hand. Last year alone, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Branch supported 222 veterans and their families in our local community.

Families have always been at the heart of what SSAFA does and they have been put at the centre of the brand. The change of name is supported by a modern new logo with a three colour underline to represent the charity’s lifelong support to the Navy, Army and RAF. These changes follow a long period of consultation with volunteers and staff as well as members of the military community. SSAFA has supported our Forces and their families for more than 125 years but the work we do now is more vital than ever before. It’s really important that those who serve and those who used to serve in our Forces know that SSAFA is here for them and their families for life.

To find out how we can help you or how you can help us please contact our volunteers, we have no paid staff, at The Wynd Centre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley PA1 2DB. 0141 840 4060 - ssafa.paisley@thewynd.org.uk - www. ssafa.org.uk

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Christian Aid Week Christian Aid Week nationally is held 12th - 18th May. The Kilmacolm and Quarriers committee endeavour to call at every house with a red envelope asking for a donation. We are desperately short of volunteer collectors - too old, too busy - we thank everyone who has collected for so very many years. But we need help to keep covering the roads of Kilmacolm and Quarriers.

Would you have the time to collect for two-three hours during Christian Aid Week? Please call Jill Russell on 01505 872393 if you can help.

Rock-a-Buy Baby & Kid’s Market Pre-loved MEGA Market

40+ stalls, nearly-new & craft at The Lagoon Leisure Centre, Paisley on Sat 4th May, 10:30am - 1.30pm.

Admission £1, Children Free.

Feeva Tribute Night At Ingliston Country Club & Equestrian Centre, Salerno Suite on Friday 31st May 7pm for 7.30pm dinner - 1am finish.

The ultimate party night from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s! 3 course meal tea/coffee (dietary options available) 60’s, 70’s and 80’s party hits plus DJ. £29.95 per person To book call: 0845 301 1010 email: general@ingliston.com or ask at reception.

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Eva’s sponsored haircut

Eva Sweeney, who is from Bridge of Weir and in Primary 5 at St Fillan’s Primary School in Houston, had 18 inches cut off her hair. She still has a few more donations to collect but at present she has raised over £1,666 - which is fabulous.

She had her haircut donated by The Rainbow Room, Crow Road, Glasgow, which was very kind of them.

She is delighted with the amount raised and also loves her new hairstyle.

Well done Eva!!!

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Have You Got What It Takes?

Erskine is looking for people of all fitness levels to take on “The Scottish Military Fitness Log Run Challenge” and help raise vital funds for the veterans’ charity.

This exciting new challenge will take place on Saturday 8th June at 8am in the Mugdock Park, Milngavie, when teams of eight ambitious people will undertake the tough physical race to fundraise for the charity caring for exService men and women across Scotland.

The Challenge, run by Scottish Military Fitness, is designed to give a taste of what it’s like to train for military exercises. This is an excellent team building opportunity where teams are encouraged to see if they have what it takes to complete Military training. Each team will run a 5K route around Mugdock Park, carrying a 35kg log to the finishing line.

Fitness Instructor Donald MacGregor served as a Submariner. Donald said: “I’m proud to help raise vital funds for Erskine. As a veteran myself it’s great to know Erskine are there to care for veterans when they need it.

We’re looking forward to a fun day and if you’d like to come along please get in touch with us. We hope to raise as much as we can for a terrific cause.”

Erskine Fundraiser, Alan Moss, said: “We’re looking for teams of at least four. This is a brilliant fitness challenge run by ex-Service personnel.

Please come along and help us raise as much as we can for Erskine. It’s really easy to take part, you don’t need to be super fit as it is suitable for people of all fitness levels. The instructors make it a day packed full of fun and we hope you can join us!”

Entry details; Entry fee is £100 per team of 8 people with a minimum sponsorship of £25 per person. Suggested minimum sponsorship - £200 per team to help raise vital funds for Erskine. Venue - Mugdock park visitor centre, Milngavie. Date - Saturday 4th August, Start time 8am until 12 noon. Come on take on the challenge today and help us give veterans a new lease of life! For more information please contact us at 0141 814 4555, email team@erskine.org.uk or visit www.erskine.org.uk. For more details on Scottish Military Fitness please visit; www.scotmilfit.com.

The Aurea String Quartet In Concert Freeland Church is hosting a string quartet concert during Bridge of Weir’s Gala Week celebrations, as part of the church’s 275th anniversary commemoration. The Aurea String Quartet is a group of very talented young musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, and will play a selection of classical pieces. They are considered to be one of the most dynamic and promising string quartets currently emerging from UK conservatoires.

Bluebell Walk - Highwood Kilmacolm Sunday 12th May from 10am - 4pm

For those of you that attended the Highwood Bluebell walk on previous years will know this is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable days out of the month! This year all money raised will be going directly to the work of registered Scottish charity, Ordidstudio. www.orkidstudio.co.uk Come and enjoy a walk in 60 acres of beautiful ancient woodland bluebells.

Refreshments available. Dogs are welcome but please keep othem on a leash. Take the Lochwinnoch Road out of Kilmacolm for 2 miles then follow the signs.

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They won joint first prize in a national intercollegiate quartet competition in their first year together in 2011, and reached the final of an international quartet competition in Hungary last year. They have performed widely including touring in China, and their first recording is due out this summer.

Accord Week

Get together for ACCORD Hospice from 24th - 31st May. Organise a ‘get together’ at school, work or home with family, friends or colleagues and raise funds to support the work of the Hospice. Visit the website at www.accordhospice.org.uk or call the fundraising departments on 0141 581 2000 for details.

Date & Time- Tuesday 11th June, 7.30pm.

Venue-Freeland Church, Main Street , Bridge of Weir. Tickets are priced £5 each and are available from-Bernie’s Cafe and Deli, Neva Place, Main Street, Bridge of Weir, Freeland Coffee Shop, The Pirie Centre, Freeland Church Thursdays 10-12am and The Pirie Information Centre, Freeland Church Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays 10-12am.

Saturday Recitals

At Paisley Abbey 12.30pm on Saturday 18th May, join us for a Recital of Strings and Voice. Tickets £5 on sale at the door.

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Paisley Entertainment

• 2nd May - Bring It All Home: James Grant and Friends Paisley Abbey 7.30pm: Master songsmith and guitarist James Grant performs in the unique surroundings of Paisley Abbey.

• 3rd May - Bring It All Home: A Night at the Wynd - The Wynd Centre, School Wynd, Paisley: The Wynd Centre hosts Carol Laula, Yvonne Lyon and special guests for a great night’s entertainment.

• 10th May - Blueflint - Paisley Arts Centre, 7.30pm: A highlyacclaimed 5-piece band, Blueflint return to Paisley Arts Centre.

• 11th May - Paisley and Districts Scout Duck Race - Thread St, near Anchor Mill From 11.30am: Paisley and District Scout Council are organising a duck race for charity, with prizes to be won.

• 11th May - Hotel California - A Night of Eagles - Paisley Town Hall, 7.30pm • 12th May - The Singing Kettle Rumble in the Jungle - Paisley Town Hall, 1pm & 3.30pm • 22nd May - Be Silent or Be Killed Paisley Arts Centre, 7.30pm: The story of a businessman caught up in the terrorist attack in Mumbai in 2008, documenting his decision • 26th May - Karine Polwart Paisley Arts Centre, 7.30pm: Talented folk musician with a host of award nominations and a fantastic new album.

For further information on any of the above events, please visit the website at www.renfrewshire.gov. uk/webcontent/Home/Services/ Leisure+and+culture/Events/

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Blue Watch 3 Peaks Challenge

In May this year, a team of 9 fire-fighters from Glasgow Airport will attempt the 3 Peaks Challenge to raise funds for a charity called Chloe’s Chemoo Cows and for Yorkhill Children’s Foundation.

The challenge consists of climbing the highest mountain in Scotland, England then Wales within 24 hours.

Team leader, Scott Robertson, is a neighbour of the family who set up Chloe’s Chemoo Cows in memory of their daughter who sadly died of a brain tumour aged just 11. The charity aims to offer comfort to children being treated in the children’s’ oncology ward by providing them with their own Chemoo Cow soft toy, a bookmark, a birth certificate and stickers. They also give a large parcel of crafts and activities to the ward two or three times a year.

• 4th May - Bring It All Home: James Grant Masterclass Paisley Museum and Art Galleries, 2.30pm: James shares some of his craft.

• 5th May - Guided Walks on Gleniffer Braes - 2pm (walk will take about 2 hrs) Brownside Farm Car Park, Off Caplethill Road, Paisley: Walk on the Braes and learn more about how the land has been worked over the years.

local news

In May last year Emma McNicol, from Houston, the daughter of one of the other team members, spent some time in the intensive care unit at Yorkhill hospital with pneumonia when she was just one month old. The team felt it would be nice to give some of the funds raised to the Yorkhill Children’s Foundation in recognition of the outstanding care Emma received. A gesture which parents, Jamie and Louise, both very much appreciate.

Any support or donations for the challenge would be very much appreciated. To donate online, please visit www.justgiving.com/ teams/Bluewatch3peakschallenge or see www.chloeschemoocows. com for more information

Charity Horse Show

Come and have a fun day and help us raise funds for Cancer Research UK on Sunday 9th June, including Clear Round Jumping ~ Sponsored Fun Ride ~ Auction & Raffle ~ Tea and Cake!!

We have been overwhelmed with the generosity of the prizes offered for auction and raffle. Below is a list of the ones donated so far but more are being added so please keep checking our website for full details, including how you can bid for them.

Lesson with David Gatherer / £30 voucher for First Saddlery, Lesson with Linda Barnes, Listed Judge / Reiki session for either human, horse or dog / 2 hr private cooking lesson with Marcel Grant / New set of shoes by farrier Scott Davidson / Physio assessment/treatment

by Ruth Torrance / 1 hr flight around local area, for 3 people, in a Piper Arrow light aircraft (worth around £160 per person).

Greenock Entertainment • 1st May - Fleeto & Wee Andy

• 2nd May - The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular • 3rd/10th May - Megastars Semi Finals • 9th/10th May - The Land of Lost Things • 11th May - The Singing Kettle • 14th May - Be Silent or Be Killed • 16th May - Dancing Queen • 17th May - Unusual Places to Dance • 18th May - Peter Morrison • 19th May - a Play, a Pie & a Pint • 22nd May - Calums Road • 24th May - Megastars Final • 29th May - A Conversation with Carmel • 30th May - The Sash Tel: 01475 723723 info@beaconartscentre.co.uk The Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock, PA15 1HJ

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

what’s on...

t: 01505 613340

regular events

Mon 29 Apr - Fri 10 May

Sun 5 May

weekly

monthly

Art Show

Dawn Safari

every monday

1st tuesday

Callanetics

Scotland west business networking group

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir

Members of the St Columba’s Evening Art Class will be exhibiting their work, some of which will be for sale. For further information please contact: Kirstin Zhang, Press & Publications Officer. Tel: 01505 874772 E: kzhang@st-columbas.org

Thu 2 May James Grant & Friends Paisley Abbey

A celebration of song writing. Tickets £16 plus booking fee. Tickets available from Marks and Spencer’s food counter, High Street, Paisley & www.tickets-scotland.com or 08444 155221.

Fri 3 May The Rafferty Family plus special guests Paisley Abbey

A celebration of song writing. Tickets £22 plus booking fee. Tickets available from Marks and Spencer’s food counter, High Street, Paisley & www.tickets-scotland.com or 08444 155221.

Film Nights at the Bridge The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Doors open 6.30pm

“An Inspector Calls” (U) - Based on a story

by J B Priestley this classic mystery is set in 1912, but filmed in 1954. With Alastair Sim and Jane Wenham. Entry is free, but any donations to Bridge funds is very welcome.

Film starts at 7pm.

Sat 4 May Rock-a-Buy Baby & Kid’s Market

The Lagoon Leisure Centre, Paisley 10.30am to 1.30pm

in association with *Baby Booty Sale* Preloved MEGA Market 40+ stalls, nearly-new & craft Admission £1, Children Free

Sun 5 May Guided Walk around around Corlic Hill’s archaeological site

The MOD mast, east of Whitelees Cottage, Greenock 2.30pm

A walking tour led by Stephen Jennings, it will show you the amazing and important archaeological sites on the slopes around Corlic Hill and Lurg Moor just south of Greenock and in our magnificent Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

We have to restrict the number of people attending and you can book by contacting Nigel Willis on WillisBigNig@aol.com. If you also say where you will travel from we can try to arrange car sharing. Length of walk: approx 1.75 to 2 hours.

No dogs allowed - it’s lambing time.

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 6am to 9am approx

Take to the water by canoe for this unique 360 degree surround sound experience of the dawn chorus. Look for otters or even an osprey flying by or the blue flash from a kingfisher. This 3 hour trip includes a bush breakfast. Tel: 01505 842 882 Ex 20 & bookings. Adult £45/Conc £30 per person.

Tue 7 - Sat 11 May Roadworks - Kilmacolm Gryffe Road, Kilmacolm

Closed for resurfacing of part of Gryffe Road in Kilmacolm (between Bridge of Weir Road and Houston Road). Diversions will be in place.

Wed 8 May Feeling Fitter Walk Level 2 Semple Trail Revisited Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 10.30am or 10.45am at Lochwinnoch Train Station

Brookfield Village Hall 7.15pm

Call Gwyneth Bell 07850 382238 for details.

Houston jogging buddies Village Hall, Houston 6.30pm All abilities welcome.

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan 9pm-10.30pm

Visit www.strathgryffe.org for details.

every Tuesday Bridge of Weir walking group

Outside the Co-op, BoW 10.30am

Walk for around 1 hour. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000 for details.

Baby social

This is a circular walk climbing up to Belltrees and Bowfield for views over Castle Semple Loch before going down into Howwood and through Parkhill Wood. Allow minimum 4 hours.

Tel: 01505 842 882 Ex 20.

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Village 11am

St Mary’s Lecture Materialism

Birkmyre Park Running Club

St Mary’s Church, Bridge of Weir 7pm

The Great Takeover: How materialism, the media and markets now dominate our lives.

Carol Craig, author of The Scots Crisis of Confidence and The Tears that made the Clyde, will be speaking about Materialism.

If you need further information, please call 01505 842629.

Thu 9 May Pruning & Garden Care - a talk

British Legion, Bridge of Weir 8pm

Dr Alison Moss will be offering really practical help to any of us slightly unsure of when and how to prune. Is your clematis Group 1, 2 or 3? There are many different varieties within each group and all pruned differently and at varying times of the year. Lack of flowers may be simply down to incorrect pruning.

Thu 9 - Sat 11 May

Meet mums, drink coffee & eat cake. Call 01505 228087 or email threesistersbake@ gmail.com for further info.

Birkmyre Park Gym, Kilmacolm 7pm

Share ideas, listen to our speakers and meet new people. Call 01505 228087 or email threesistersbake@gmail.com for further info.

1st Sunday Car Boot Sale

Bridge of Weir Car Park 9am-1pm

Set up from 8am - £5 per car. Call 01505 615992 for more details.

2nd Wednesday Inverclyde Carers Outreach Surgery

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am-2pm

Email enquiries@inverclydecarerscentre.org. uk or call: 01475 735180.

2nd Saturday ‘Brunch & Browse’

St Fillan’s Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm 10am-2pm

Home made soups, home baking, tea, coffee, books & lots of stalls. Great value! Disabled access. £4.

An enjoyable and invigorating run in and around Kilmacolm. Tel: 01475 715750.

every WEDNESDAY Knitting Group

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Village 10am - 12noon

Knitters of all levels welcome! Call 01505 228087 or email threesistersbake@gmail.com for further info.

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall 5.15pm, 6.15pm & 7.30pm

Call Gwyneth Bell 07850 382238 for details.

Line dancing

Bishopton Primary School 7pm - 8.30pm

All abilities welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212 for further details.

Flower And Fabric Festival

every Thursday

In celebration of the Abbey’s 850 years the Abbey Stitchers have created a selection of striking and interesting quilts and hangings which will be displayed alongside complimentary floral art arrangements. Tickets £5 from the Abbey shop or the Abbey Office at 0141 889 7654 www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

Kilmacolm Walkers

Paisley Abbey 10am to 4pm

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Village 9.30am - 11am

farmers markets 1st Saturday Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 10am-2pm (“The Square”)

1st & 3rd Sunday Loch Lomond Shores 10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd & last Saturday Paisley County Square 9am-1pm Tel: 01655 770217

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm 10am

An enjoyable health walk in and around Kilmacolm. Tel: David Goddard 01505 874192 or email kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall 9.15am & 10.30am

Call Gwyneth Bell 07850 382238 for details.

every friday Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall 9.15am & 10.30am

www.advertizer.co.uk for weekly updates

Call Gwyneth Bell 07850 382238 for details.

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www.advertizer.co.uk

local news

15

The Osteopath

Teresa Harvey spent 10 years as a nurse specialising in spinal medicine, before qualifying with a first class honours degree in Osteopathy 15 years ago.

She also has a postgraduate qualification in Medical Acupuncture which is recommended, along with Osteopathy, as one of the most effective treatments for low back pain.

Simeon London also graduated with a first class Honours degree. He spends some of the week working in London as the head of clinical practice at the British School of Osteopathy.

As well as this he was one of the few Osteopaths working in a clinic at the London Olympics and more recently was asked to write an article for Men’s Health Magazine reviewing a new exercise regime for back pain.

ts

A lot of people have back pain due to degenerative changes and wear and tear or disc problems. However not many people know that (Non Surgical) Spinal Decompression Therapy can significantly reduce symptoms and therefore reliance on pain medication.

As well as this it is a useful adjunct to Osteopathic treatment, which is why at The Osteopaths we now offer Spinal Decompression Therapy in our clinic.

An Evening with Mark Beaumont In aid of Orkidstudio - Thursday 30th May, Glasgow SECC - 7.30pm Tickets £14, £12 concessions. Broadcaster and adventurer Mark Beaumont has cycled around the World, rowed a small boat through the high Arctic, climbed the highest peaks and cycled the Americas and recently survived after capsizing in the middle of the Atlantic. Talking about these and other expeditions, Mark shares how he has made a career from adventure and documentaries.

Thomas Coats Organ Recital

Laurence Caldecote - Associate Organist, Nuneaton Parish Church.

CCTV will allow the audience to see the console and performer on Sunday 19th May, 4pm. Thomas Coats Memorial Church, Paisley. Entry is free.

Visit the website at www.musicattcm.org.uk for further information.

224_MAY13_14-19 WHAT'S ON.ind.indd 15

WHAT IS IT? It is a mechanical traction treatment that elongates the spine in order to release pressure on damaged spinal discs joints and nerves. It can be used on the neck as well as the low back.

WHAT IS IT USED FOR It can help people suffering with herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative low back or neck pain such as spondylosis and general low back pain.

HOW DOES IT WORK Spinal decompression exerts smooth pressure to ease apart the specific vertebral segments required. This takes immediate pressure off the discs, joints and spinal nerves easing pain and muscle spasm.

We are offering a free 15 minute trial session for all patients. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call and we can discuss an appointment

Volunteers Required

Could you spare a few hours a week to support your local Hospice?

Complementary Therapists - We are looking for qualified, experienced therapists who are willing to give some of their time and skills to our patients.

Patient Drivers – Volunteers required to help transport patients to and from the Hospice.

Housekeeping Team - To assist the housekeeping team to keep the patient and public areas in the Hospice clean and tidy.

Retail Assistants – Needed in our charity shops in Bridge of Weir, Lochwinnoch and Linwood.

Please contact Christine Haddock, Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01505 705635 or call into any of our shops and pick up a volunteer application form.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

t: 01505 613340

Fri 10 - Sun 19 May

Sat 11 May

Mon 13 May - 23 June

Sat 18 May

Lodge Sir Michael No 989 - Annual Plant Sale

RSPB Renfrewshire Local Group Annual Plant Sale

Art Exhibition- Rab Wilson

Paisley Abbey Saturday Recitals

Come along to stock up on your bedding plants for the season ahead, pick up some bargain books and CD/DVD’s, enjoy the fantastic selection of home baking and have fun on our tombola/raffle.

From Monday 13th May for six weeks at the Bridge Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. Art exhibition of art by local artist Rab Wilson who works from his studio in Quarrier’s Village. A series of portraits, surrealism, landscapes and still life.

Masonic Temple, Glebe Rd, Kilmacolm.

Bedding Plants, Tubs & Planters filled for you.

Good prices. Fri 10th May - 6pm - 9pm; Sat 11th May - 9am - 4pm; Sun 12th May - 10am 4pm; Fri 17th May - 6pm - 9pm; Sat 18th May - 9am - 4pm; Sun 19th May - 10am - 4pm.

Fri 10 May St Vincent’s Hospice Silver Anniversary Ball

Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow 7pm

Enjoy a night of glitz and glamour. Tickets are just £48; reception from 7pm, meal 7.30pm, carriages 1am, dress to impress. A very limited number of tables remain – to reserve/ book your tickets email info@svh.co.uk or call 01505 705635.

Sat 11 May Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show Knapps Loch, Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm 9.30am to late afternoon

Full days events starting with livestock and horses in the morning. Special attractions, trade stands, craft tents, pets corner & pet show, dog agility show. Lunches, teas, snacks & refreshments available on the field.

Christian Aid Sale & Coffee Morning Langbank Parish Church 10am to 12noon

In November, this very active small group donated £430 to Farm Africa’s ‘Give Hunger the Boot’ campaign, and has already raised £200 towards this present project. They are hoping to add to this, by holding a sale of CDs, DVDs, books, games and jigsaws. Please support these enthusiastic young people, by coming along, having a browse, and enjoying a cup of coffee and home baking.

Houston Kirk Carnival day Houston Kirk, Houston 12noon

12noon at the Kirk itself for The Fancy Dress Competition and the Fancy Dress Parade starts at 12.15pm, led by the 1st Houston Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade Pipe Band. This year’s theme is 50 Years of Doctor Who! The crowning of the Carnival Queen will be at 12.45pm at the Church Halls, Main St, Houston and the Official Opening of the Carnival will follow at 1pm.

The proceeds from this year’s carnival will go towards the Kirk Extension Fund.

Coffee Morning & Plant Sale Bishopton Community Centre 10am to 12noon

After selecting your plants, you can enjoy a cake plus a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee, and find out about World Fairtrade Day which is also held this year on 11th May. Tickets £2 for adults, with children free.

World Fair Trade Day, Kilbarchan 3 venues in Kilbarchan

Fairly traded tea and coffee will be served at Bobbins. The same will be available at the Glenleven, along with scones made with Fair Trade ingredients. For folk who would like to purchase Fair Trade goods there will be a stall at the Weaver’s Cottage from 10 am until noon. If you haven’t tried Fair Trade tea or coffee, which come in a variety of strengths and flavours, this is your chance to sample it, and to help producers in the developing world.

RSPB Lochwinnoch 11am to 4pm

Sat 11 - Sun 12 May

Tue 14 May

Scottish District Sailing Championships 2013

The Iron House - Opening

IOM (International One Meter) Model Yacht Championships Come and admire the stylish model yachts being manoeuvred by their expert handlers. Just as exciting as the real thing!

Iron works for your home & garden.

Showroom open Tuesday - Friday 12noon till 4.30pm. Saturday 9am till 12 noon. All metal works fabricated on premises and be customised to your own personal taste. Tel: 07806814785/01505 613102

Castle Semple Loch, Lochwinnoch 10am to 5pm

Sun 12 May Bluebell Walk

Highwood, Kilmacolm 10am to 4pm

One of the most beautiful and enjoyable days out of the month! This year all money raised will be going directly to the work of registered Scottish charity, Orkidstudio. So come and enjoy a walk in 60 acres of beautiful ancient woodland bluebells. Refreshments available and dogs are more than welcome, but please keep them on a leash. Www.ordistudio.co.uk

Glasgow Women’s 10km

Join Team Visibility at the Glasgow Women’s 10km. Run, jog or walk, get fit and feel great knowing that you are helping blind and partially sighted children and adults living in the west of Scotland. Call 0141 332 4632 or email susan. crombie@visibility.org.uk for more info.

Gourock Highland Games

For enquiries regarding this event please contact: 01475 712032 or email: corporatecommunications@inverclyde.gov. uk

Sun 12 - Sat 18 May Christian Aid Week

We need help to keep covering the roads of Kilmacolm and Quarriers. Would you have the time to collect for two-three hours during Christian Aid Week? Please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393 if you can help.

Sun 12 - Sat 26 May Decorus Gorgeous Getaways Free Gift

29 Stewart Place, Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm

With the purchase of two or more recommended Clarins products, one to be skin care - choose from 3 extra generous travel sizes. Call 01505 873636 for further information.

Mon 13 May More Colour in Kilmacolm Kilmacolm New Community Centre 7.30pm

If you would like to be involved, please come along this meeting or email Peter at pmckerrell@hotmail.co.uk or tel 01505 872448.

Mon 13 May - 7 June Classique Window Blinds Spring Promotion Block 5, Unit 2, Paddockholm Industrial Estate, Kilbirnie

20% off curtains and romans. All types of blinds and plantation shutters available. See main advert on page 8.

224_MAY13_14-19 WHAT'S ON.ind.indd 16

Bridge Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir

Threeply, Torr Road, Bridge of Weir PA11 3RT 12noon to 4.30pm

Visibility Road Show

Paisley Town Hall 10am to 1pm

Products and services to assist people who have a visual impairment. Call 0141 332 4632 or visit the website at www.visibility.org.uk

Tue 14 - Sun 26 May Cyclist Volunteer Information Evening

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch

We are looking for interested parties and individuals to get in touch and help us improve, create or develop some bike routes. Could you volunteer an hour or so to give us your thoughts or maybe even contribute to a discussion on the topic? Register your interest at this meeting - look on line for details or email us.

Wed 15 May Eternal Light

Paisley Abbey 7.30pm

With the Bearsden Choir and Chorus Niagara.

Adults £15, conc £13, student/child £5. Tickets available from enquirieis@bearsdenchoir.co.uk or Ticket Scotland on 0141 204 5151.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Spring Outing

Our visit to Ardardan Nurseries and Farm Shop will be followed by a picturesque tour along Loch Lomond, Rest and Be Thankful, Loch Goil and Loch Long to the Benmore Botanic Gardens near Dunoon. Rhoddies, Camellias, Magnolias will be in full bloom. Call Jill Russell on 01505 872393 for details.

Thu 16 May Film Nights at the Bridge The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Doors 6.30pm

“Oliver” (U) - Lionel Bart’s outstanding musical based on the Charles Dickens story with Oliver Reed, Ron Moody, Shani Wallace and Harry Secombe. Entry is free, but any donations to Bridge funds is very welcome. The film starts at 7pm.

Fri 17 May Marvellous Moths

Barnbrock Farm 8pm to 10pm

An evening capturing and identifying what has been attracted by the mercury lamp. Seek out a true lovers’ knot, question a silver y or nose around for a snout! Tel: 01505 614 791 & bookings

Kilmacolm after Show Ceilidh

River Inn, Houston Road, Crosslee 7.30pm

Paisley Abbey 12.30pm

A Recital of Strings and Voice Tickets £5 on sale at the door.

Dawn Safari

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 6am to 9am approx

Take to the water by canoe for this unique 360 degree surround sound experience of the dawn chorus. Look for otters or even an osprey flying by or the blue flash from a kingfisher. This 3 hour trip includes a bush breakfast. Tel: 01505 842 882 Ex 20 & bookings. Adult £45/Conc £30 per person.

Art Exhibition and Sale

Sommerville Hall, Quarriers Village (above Three Sisters Bake) 10.30am to 4.30pm

Artist Pamela Randal is holding a one-day art exhibition and sale of all-original fine art paintings, supporting Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Further details on www.pamelarandal. co.uk

CAR BOOT SALE

Lochwinnoch Parish Church 10am to 3pm

To book a place please call 01505 842404 or 842365. No later than the 15th to avoid disappointment. Cost of car and use of table £10. Set up time 9am. If weather VERY wet sale will be held in the church hall. Tea/coffee/ biscuits will be available in the small hall for £1.50.

RYA Push the Boat Out Day Castle Semple Loch 10.30am to 3.30pm

The RYA the water sports clubs at Castle Semple Loch are holding a free come and try day for watersports at the loch- to book your place pop into the Castle Semple Visitor Centre or call 01505 842 882. Buoyancy aids will be provided but you are advised to bring a change of clothing.

Plant Sale and Pancake Morning Kilbarchan East Church halls 10am to 12noon

The plants are coming from a nursery in Stewarton and will be of good quality as usual.

For order forms, contact 704502. Entrance is £2, children £1, which includes delicious freshly-made pancakes with butter, jam and/ or cream (depending on how many calories you wish!!)

Elderslie Kirk Car Boot Sale & Grand Summer Fete 11am to 3pm

Stalls, Tea room, games room, burgers, plants, chocolate fountains and much more. Come along and join in the fun and enjoy some good home baking. Those wishing a pitch at the Car Boot Sale, should contact Fiona on 07920112109 by text or phone or Anne on 01505 346 209. Car pitches £10. Cars should be on site by 10.30am and can leave after 2.30pm. All proceeds of fete will go to our halls development fund.

Paisley Abbey 850 Pilgrimage

The ninth of the Paisley Abbey 850 Pilgrimage walks will set off from Barrhill Memorial Hall on a 13mile walk to New Luce. Anyone wishing to join us may visit the Paisley Abbey website www.paisleyabbey.org.uk or phone the office on 0141 889 7654 for details.

Tickets £20 per person, includes buffet.

Call cafe 07733 442 504 or email tickets@ kilmacolmshow.co.uk

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local news

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

t: 01505 613340

Sat 18 May

Sun 19 May

sun 26 may

Mon 3 - Sat 8 June

Family Fun Day

Green Hairstreak Walk

Open Garden

Beith Art Exhibition

A walk with a Ranger through the blueberry to search for these extraordinary little butterflies.

Bring a camera! Tel: 01505 842 803 & bookings

Enjoy the bluebells, rhododendrons, woodlands and young arboretum, not to mention our excellent homemade teas, at small extra cost, all in aid Scotland’s Gardens’ charities. Entry £3.50., children under 16 free. Thanks to Mr and Mrs Charles Maclean. For more details see www.scotlandsgardens.org

Showing the work of local artists who never cease to amaze us all with their talent. All are very welcome. Opening times are Monday Friday 2.30pm - 8.30pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm. Entrance is free.

Woodlands Nursery and Out of School Care, Houston 11am to 3pm

Everyone in the local community is invited.

We will have a BBQ, Bouncy Castle, Bottle Stall, Grand Raffle, Beat the Goalie and much, much more. Tickets will be £10 for a family of four and includes something to eat and drink from the BBQ. Tickets will be on sale at the nursery shortly.

Sat 18 - Sun 26 May Scotland’s Nature Festival Clyde Muirshiel locations

Celebrate the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 at Clyde Muirshiel with events celebrating the best of the Regional Park’s wildlife. Spot kingfishers and otters on the Dawn Safari, chase butterflies at Muirshiel or get that perfect shot for the Photographic Competition with a Photo Walk at Greenock Cut Centre.

Sun 19 May Thomas Coats Organ Recital Series

Thomas Coats Memorial Church, Paisley 4pm

Laurence Caldecote - Associate Organist, Nuneaton Parish Church. CCTV will allow the audience to see the console and performer.

Entry is free. Visit the website at www. musicattcm.org.uk for further information.

The annual Houston Scout car wash Scout Hall in South Street, Houston 12noon to 2pm

The annual Scout car wash is scheduled to take place and once again tea, coffee, bacon butties and home made pancakes will be on offer while you wait. Hopefully the weather will be as sunny as last year.

Clyde Muirshiel Visitor Centre 1.30pm to 3pm

Tue 21 May Bridge of Weir TARA

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7.30pm

Friendly meetings on 3rd Tuesday of each month in the Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir at 7.30pm. All welcome.

Wed 22 May Wig Wednesday

Unite to raise vital funds for children and young people with cancer by getting their wig on! Encourage your work colleagues to get a wig on for Wig Wednesday, collect donations from everyone for taking part, and show your support for children and young people with cancer. Sign up online at www.clicsargent. org.uk/wigwednesday and we will send you a free event pack.

Thu 23 May Colum Sands

Carrick Centre, Houston 8pm

From County Down, Colum’s unique style of combining songs and stories has him a much sought after performer at home and abroad. £10 (payable at door). For additional information or to advance book please contact 07595461550 or email houstonfolkclub@ gmail.com

Carruth, Torr Rd, Br of Weir 2-5pm

Thu 30 May An Evening with Mark Beaumont Glasgow SECC 7.30pm

Talking about these and other expeditions, broadcaster and adventurer Mark Beaumont shares how he has made a career from adventure and documentaries.

Tickets £14. £12 concessions

Sat 1 June Castle Semple Rowing Club Regatta

Castle Semple loch by Lochwinnoch 9am to 5pm

The largest one day rowing event in Scotland.

6 lane racing on the loch, with nearly 100 races running at 5 minute intervals. Competitors and supporters from all over Scotland plus crews from England and further a field to compete.

Houston And Killellan Agricultural Show Houston Public Park 10am

Cattle, Horses & Sheep, starts 10am with judging at 11am. ‘Houston’s Got Talent’ with young local people showcasing their talents. Craft tent, snack and ice cream vans, competitions and fun for all the family! For entry forms, or more information please contact Catharine Anderson 07795174306 or email houstonshow@hotmail.co.uk

Community Centre, Kings Rd, Beith

Sun 2 June Cochrane Castle Golf Club Membership Open Day Scott Avenue, Johnstone PA5 0HF

See main advert on page 53 for full details.

Tel: 01505 320146

Wed 5 June Pound & Pace Charity Walk Greenock Cut 11am

Members of the public are eagerly encouraged to come along and walk the Greenock Cut’s 7.5 miles, with a Park Ranger, for a donation of £1.

Registration is at 10:15 at the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, for an 11am start. Buy a raffle ticket on the day to win various prizes!

Fri 7 June Film Nights at the Bridge The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Doors 6.30pm

On Friday 7th June, the film is “What’s Up Doc” (U) - Screwball romantic comedy directed by Peter Bogdanovich. With Barbra Streisand, Ryan O’Neal and Madelain Kahn. Entry is free, but any donations to Bridge funds is very welcome. The film starts at 7pm.

Eternal Light - The Concert

On 15th May, in Paisley Abbey, Bearsden Choir will be joined by Chorus Niagara to perform two wonderful choral works. The first is a traditional mass, composed as a celebration for the life of a loved one and the second, a requiem, written, not for the dead, but for those who are left to grieve.

Eternal Light – Remembrance Canada and Scotland have enjoyed a close - knit and staunch association for centuries. Culture, education, business are but a few of the links which bind us together. Sadly, however, over the years, history has seen fit to forge and temper one particularly sombre yet wholly inspiring alliance, military service in time of war. Generations of men and women, Canadian and Scot, have served, fought and died side by side. South Africa, two World Wars, Korea and countless other actions have exacted their toll. Even now the harrowing spectre of Afghanistan continues to haunt both nations.

On 15th May, while poppies bloom in Flanders, choirs from Canada and Scotland will join together to sing and to remember ever mindful of the significance of the Poppy. There will be a collection in aid of Poppyscotland and The Royal Canadian Legion.

Eternal Light - Why the Poppy?

The winter of 1914/15, the first of the Great War, had been bitterly cold, the French countryside lay lifeless, ravaged by fierce and bloody fighting - it seemed as if the very soul of the soil had been laid bare. Europe was in the grip of war yet, the warm spring weather together with the broken earth would help create a magnum opus of the 20th Century - the Poppy, the image that was to become the single most eloquent, most enduring indeed, eternal, symbol of Remembrance. Though its colour is redolent of blood and suffering, the Poppy’s dogged determination to flower was seen as a symbol of hope and regeneration.

Poppy seeds will lie dormant in the ground for years, germinating only when the soil is disturbed. Farmyard, field and forest, scarred and devastated by the folly of man, afforded just such “disturbance.” The madness of war would encourage the propagation of this tiny flower. Sun, soil and, paradoxically, war, would help awaken the slumbering seeds. Poppies would bloom, be blown and, perhaps, offer a flicker of hope to soldiers, cast adrift in an ungodly, desolate landscape.

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The Gryffe Camera Club

PCPC Competion -

Now that May is here – it’s time for the presentations from each of our Workshop Groups. The members of these groups have spent the winter looking at different aspects of photography and have used some instruction and self-learning to further their knowledge.

We’ve had a Macro group First Light – Rick Bolton s t u d y i n g Shiny Beetle – Andy Stark methods of close-ups, an Audio-Visual Group learning how to put together a set of images to sound tracks that have been produced by themselves, and the New Members who have been getting to grips with taking, downloading and printing their first exhibition quality images.

Paisley Colour Photographic Club’s third and final Bimonthly competition of the session was held recently at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew.

There was an entry of over a hundred images covering an interesting and varied range of subjects. In the three sections - Introductory, Intermediate and Advanced the overall standard of the images submitted was particularly high for this competition and returning to the club to judge the entries was Stephen Lipton from East Kilbride Camera Club. Stephen gave very careful consideration to all images in turn pointing out enthusiastically the strong features each image and also suggesting any improvements that could be made to the processing or the composing of an image.

Also we have our Annual Competition – where the best work from the members over the last session gets judged to reveal the overall winners for the year. A selection from this competition then goes on an exhibition tour around Renfrewshire.

Duck Portrait – Tony McNamara

t: 01505 613340

The 15th May is our Treasure Hunt around Houston and the local area – so what will be the topics this year? There were extremely creative ideas for the clues last year – so you have to think differently for your photography!

The AGM then comes along on the 22nd.

The Rose – Rob Bowater

In the Introductory section in third was Richard Bennett with his squirrel image “Peeping”. In second place was Pauline Smith with another squirrel image “Please Sir! Can I have some more”. The winning image in the section

The Summer Syllabus starts on June 5th – with a visit to the Glasgow Necropolis. The summer meetings are open to anyone who would like to come along and learn about their camera and photography. So if you think that you might be a future member – then why not come along for a ‘test drive’ over the summer.

The club has also introduced our new website at www.gryffecameraclub. co.uk - where you can find out much more about our Summer Outings and us.

Photography Quote of the Month - There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs. – Ansel Adams

local History

Grey Squirrel – John McConnellogue

by Renfrewshire Local History Forum

The Secret of Johnstone’s Washing Green PHOTO: Bleaching dam, from ‘Morrison’s bridge’ The modern bridge crossing from Collier Street to Morrison’s supermarket, Johnstone, gives a scenic view of the Black Cart Water. Looking upstream, the observant shopper might notice traces of lades and paths on the Johnstone side of the river. These are the remains of Johnstone’s public washing green, dating back to the founding of the town in the 1780s. Along the riverbank run two parallel lades and various overflows, tunnels and sluices. Apart from their use by Johnstone’s residents for washing and bleaching, the lades have a bigger story.

From the early 1780s, during the development of Johnstone as a planned town, six water powered cotton mills were built, one mill each on the Floors and Peokland Burn, and four bigger mills on the Black Cart. In 1782 George Houston of Johnstone sold the old grain mill at Johnstone Bridge to Paisley textile merchant Robert Corse. On the site, Corse built the first of Johnstone’s cotton mills, the ‘Old’ mill, later known as Paton’s mill. Corse’s mansion still survives in Mansionhouse Road, Paisley, but his mill, the oldest surviving cotton mill in Scotland, burnt down in 2010.

In 1784, landowner George Houston built his own mill, Johnstone’s second cotton mill, further downstream from Corse’s mill, at the foot of Collier Street. The water power for Houston’s Laigh mill was supplied by a lade which continued from the tailrace or outflow from Corse’s mill, passing under a special arch in Johnstone Bridge. Corse also had ‘the liberty to cut a tail lade through the washing green laid off by Houston for his feuars at Johnstone’.

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“Small Heath” by Dr Jim Black

The water wheels in both mills were backshot, meaning the water fell on their upstream surfaces, turning them in a counter-clockwise direction.

Houston’s mill had only half the fall of Corse’s wheel, and consequently half the power. Shortly after Houston’s mill was completed, Corse decided to double the size of his mill. To increase the fall of water, needed to provide the extra power for his mill extension, Corse deepened his wheel pit.

Unfortunately this reduced the fall of water at Houston’s mill downstream, and thereby also reduced the power at Houston’s mill. If Houston tried to raise the water back to its original level, it flooded back into Corse’s mill, slowing his wheel.

Houston had boobed. By giving Corse the best site, with the biggest fall, he had not only compromised the power at his own mill, but damaged his pride. The problem resulted in years of legal dispute, ending up in the Court of Session in Edinburgh. George Meikle, the leading millwright in Scotland, was hired. His family were involved in numerous schemes, from designing new machinery for waulk mills and bleachfields to the deepening of the Clyde. The Meikle family were to water power what James Watt was to steam power.

George Meikle acted as arbitrator between Corse and Houston, carrying out experiments to manage the water supply between the two mills. By 1797 both mill owners agreed to adopt Meikle’s ingenious system, using one dam, two lades and various sluices, tunnels and ‘wasters’ (overflows) which would satisfy both mill owners. The whole scheme survives on plans and descriptions which are held in the national archives. Although today the site is overgrown, most of the scheme can still be seen from Morrison’s bridge. The curving dam on the Black Cart also survives.

Meikle’s solution allowed the clever management of 28 tons of water per minute to operate both mills. Just as importantly, it allowed the women of Johnstone to continue to wash and bleach their clothes by the side of the lades.

The scheme was landscaped many years ago as a small park, but more recently there have been plans to raze it. Hopefully its importance can be recognised and it can be properly recorded and preserved as part of Johnstone’s heritage. © 2013 Stuart Nisbet

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Results was “Red Kite in Winter” by Richard Bennett.

In the Intermediate section, as in the Introductory section, one author had two ranked images. Andy Kerr’s image “Setting Sun, Rising Moon” was third and his image “Rebuilding

“Red Kite in Winter” by Richard Bennett

WTC, New York” was judged as the top image in this section. For his image “Ray of Light” Brian Crainduff took second place.

In the Advanced section third place was awarded to Dr Jim Black for his image his superb macro butterfly image “Small Heath”. Robert Fulton’s stunning winter image “Yellowstone Coyote” was awarded second place whilst the top image in the final Bimonthly competition of the season was judged to be Mike Cruise’s magnificent image “Osprey”.

“Rebuilding WTC, New York” by Andy Kerr

For further details about PCPC and updated members galleries please view: www. paisleycolour.co.uk

“Yellowstone Coyote” by Robert Fulton

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“Peeping” by Richard Bennett

“Osprey” by Mike Cruise

“Ray of Light” by Brian Crainduff

“Please Sir! Can I have some more”

by Pauline Smith

“Setting Sun, Rising Moon”

by Andy Kerr

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t: 01505 613340

iT blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom The two main avenues to take in home printing are Laser or Inkjet. Further down the road of each lays the decision to go for original manufacturer consumables or the greatly cheaper refurbished or cloned type. These options; be it Laser or Ink, original toners or the cheap stuff, presents us with a more fundamental question – How much should I spend and how do I avoid a wasting my money.

First of all look at your printing requirements, do you need colour or not?

If not then you should consider a mono laser printer. The toners are quite expensive for them if you buy originals but laser toner is a lot more forgiving than the wet ink, so the cheap clones work well with them. The toner also lasts an age and wont dry out like ink can. You can get a laser these days for less than £100 and you will have no hassle.

If you need colour then the next question is do you need a flat bed scanner and copier? If not then don’t get one. Buy a good quality inkjet for £60 with no add-ons. It will give you good quality prints with less to break. If you see a scanner copier for a good price be suspicious. Are the inks expensive? If the shop has the printer on display then check the touch screen for sensitivity.

A tell tale sign that the manufacturer has been scrimping on quality for the

sake of cost is a slow and unresponsive panel. An All-in-One printer should be £120 or so.

Trek the Mountain Gorillas of Uganda in October 2014

Edinburgh to Dublin Cycle

We are delighted to send you details of our exciting Trek Uganda challenge.

Trek Uganda is a once in a life-time opportunity to track the amazing Mountain Gorillas of Uganda. This action packed challenge takes us to Bwindi ‘The Impenetrable Forest’ and will include a trek up Mount Sabinyo, the chance to see the endangered Golden Monkies and of course the opportunity to come up close and personal with the famous Mountain Gorillas!

From Bonnie Scotland to the Emerald Isle breathtaking landscapes, fantastic cycling and the friendliest welcomes.

This long weekend cycle challenge for charity Quarriers sees us cover just over 220 miles in 3 days as we cycle from the capital of Scotland, to the capital of the Republic of Ireland!

For more information and to register for the challenge please visit our website: http://www.actionforcharity. co.uk/eventdetailsnew2. php/urlsearch/Trek-UgandaGroup-3. Please note due to permit restrictions there are only 30 places available on this challenge date. If you have any questions please reply to this email.

in business with Steve Povey

Doing the Right Thing “Next to doing the right thing is to let

people know you are doing the right thing”

To succeed in business today, we need to be better than the competition.

If we are not, we may still survive, but only until a better competitor comes along and takes away our customers. So we need to Develop a competitive edge, to be better than them in some area of our business. Then once we have that edge, ensure customers know what it is! – That’s where our Marketing & Promotion work and plans come in. For some this seems as daunting as finding the Higgs Boson particle! Gladly marketing in its basic form is simpler, as John D Rockefeller said, “Next to doing the right thing is to let people know you are doing the right thing”.

We must ‘Identify, Anticipate and Satisfy our Customers’ requirements – Profitably’. This is on-going, as the needs and demands of customers are always changing. So we constantly seek information about and from our customers, to keep meeting and exceeding their needs and expectations. I suppose its plain common sense that the more you know about your market and customers, the more effective your marketing and promotions can be.

Famous business guru Peter Drucker once said “The aim of marketing is

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Keep in mind where all technology is concerned you always get what you pay for. When Kodak began producing cheap printers they claimed to sell the cheapest inks too, it did not work for them. The formula still stands.

Places available for 16th-19th May and 12th-15th September 2013

Starting in Edinburgh, our ride takes us through quiet country lanes as we cycle south west towards Troon where we catch our ferry to Larne. The cycling will be a challenge, but as we reach Dublin, the sense of achievement will never be forgotten as we soak up the electric atmosphere and hustle and bustle of the Republic of Ireland’s capital city. Two breathtaking capital cities, 220 miles, 3 days - join us today and conquer the Edinburgh to Dublin Bike Ride!

To leave your tyre tracks across Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland simply register on the website at www.quarriers.org.uk or contact our events team on 01505 610017. to know and understand the customer so well, the product or service fits him and sells itself.” That’s not a bad goal to have. Some good examples of this? - Steve Jobs, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Bill Gates…. Virtually every innovation in the history has combined a good understanding of human needs and the innovative vision to deliver it. Even our own Rona McGinn, publisher of The Advertizer, has continually developed and grown it to fit the needs of our local community - and we all love it!

All that will be wasted, if we don’t let people know how awesome our product/service is and why people should buy it. Telling them in some form is marketing & promoting. And we should be doing this all the time. We can never stop, because as we said, people’s hopes, desires, needs and aspirations constantly change and develop, as must we. We have to be developing with them in order to gain and keep their business, and informing them of what we are now doing. So we are marketing when we advertise, give someone a brochure, send out a press release, write something on Facebook and Twitter, talk to someone in the street, on the phone, reply to an e-mail, and answer a query ….

And a final thought - ‘Marketing is too important to be left to the marketing department!’ We all have to be doing it! “Social media” makes this point painfully clear: think about it, every employee is now an extension of your brand as they have the power to reach so many people almost instantly.

Get them feeling about your business like you do and who knows who they can reach for you!

If you would like some advice on how to improve the effectiveness of your business contact Steve on 07949 197658 or steve@developmentpartners. co.uk (Next month – Managing Time)

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Invitation to Guided Walk Around Corlic Hill’s Archaeological Site Join us for a walking tour commencing at 2.30pm on Sunday 5th May. Led by Stephen Jennings, it will show you the amazing and important archaeological sites on the slopes around Corlic Hill and Lurg Moor just south of Greenock and in our magnificent Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

We have to restrict the number of people attending and you can book by contacting Nigel Willis on WillisBigNig@aol.com. Bookings will be accepted on a first come first served basis so book early! If you also say where you will travel from we can try to arrange car sharing, if that is of interest.

The area of our walk was the place that the very first Greenockians lived and farmed and includes iron age Celtic structures, cup marked stones, the Lurg Moor Roman Fortlet and the Roman road, a rare intact and fully enclosed Iron Age Stone Hut Circle Farm and is the location of abandoned 18th, 19th and 20th Century farms with rig and furrow marks, walls and roads from various periods.

Some of these structures have been officially recorded but not all and Steve Jennings, as a result of working there for over a year, has made new discoveries. This is a great opportunity for you to reacquaint yourself or learn about this important area for the first time.

The walk will take approximately 1.75 to 2 hours, covering part road, part sheep track, part open moorland. Moderate fitness is required. Wear boots or wellies if you prefer. Depending on the weather, some of the ground could be wet. Bring suitable clothing, camera, binoculars (very helpful for looking at more distant archaeological remains and the magnificent views, but not essential), water and snack. No dogs allowed - it is lambing time.

Got a pet, or children?

As well as Style, durability and practicality are essential to the busy homeowner.

‘Low maintenance’ is also a phrase commonly used as a benefit as Scott explains “Karndean is very easy to maintain unlike natural products such as real wood floors which can dent and scratch and may require sanding in the future, also in tile form Karndean does not chip or crack like ceramics can do which I see quite often”.

Scott who lives in Bridge of Weir and has been in business for over ten years now, specialises in Karndean/Amtico as well as carpets and laminate flooring states some of the hidden benefits that his repeat customers

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AbbeySong Pace Theatre presents AbbeySong in Paisley Abbey on Wednesday,Thursday and Friday 12th-14th June at 7.30pm.

In celebration of Paisley Abbey’s 850th anniversary over 200 children and members of Pace of all ages will perform the story of the Abbey with specially created script, songs and music Tickets available from Pace Box Office at 0845 130 5218 or Paisley Abbey Shop(10am-3.30pm Mon-Sat) £8 (adult) and £5(concession)

have fed back to him “a lot of my customers have kids and pets and keeping a floor clean from dirt and pet hair can prove difficult and as a soft brush and a once over with a mop now and again is normally all it takes to keep rooms clean it is definitely beneficial for people with busy lives, the fact that Karndean will not harbour dirt and bacteria is also a hygiene bonus.”

As always, Scott is available to come out to your home and offer his advice and provide samples to make sure you make the right choice and discover the benefits that a beautiful floor from Orchard Flooring can make to your home.

You can contact Scott on 01505 229584 or 07563 633 432 E: sjmproducts@ hotmail.com

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A Personal Personnel Manager

When she set up HR Outsourced, Fiona’s vision of the business was as a Consulting Organisation driven by Knowledge, Integrity and Performance, committed to client’s success.

Fiona recognises that the Client’s needs are paramount and her business strives to add value to the client’s businesses, to ensure client confidentiality at all times and to achieve success through People and Quality.

Do you run a business? Do you have staff? Do you struggle to find time to manage them efficiently? Then perhaps ‘HR Outsourced’ is the help you are looking for.

Fiona Holmes saw a gap in the market, recognising that many small business owners are so busy running their business that they have little time for HR and they do not have the expertise or time to do this effectively.

Fiona has worked in HR for just over 12 years. She is a Generalist HR professionalism although most of her HR career to date has been working in the Hospitality industry. Her last role before starting up her own business was a Regional HR Manager with a large UK Hotel Group.

With a Degree in Business & Management, specialising in Human Resource Management, Fiona is also a Member of the Chartered Management Institute and holds CIPD.

t: 01505 613340

HR Outsourced will support your business in all areas of HR administration including contracts of employment, recruitment, employee relations, HR policies & procedures, etc. Additional services can be included for legislation, compliance, motivation and development, etc.

Fiona Holmes, Director

‘HR Outsourced’ has been operating for just over a year and already has clients from many different industries. HR Outsourced is an HR provider with the professionalism and expertise to deliver HR Services to the needs of the client.

Kilmacolm Post Office Move: The proposed move of Post Office in Kilmacolm has generated many enquiries. I have recently shared the Post Office consultation with residents to ensure local views are heard.

Allotments: I visited the Bridge of Weir Allotments and Growing group at the Bridge, and although the sun was shinning didn’t manage to get ‘dug in’ due to a busy surgery there and across the Renfrewshire North & West constituency.

Shillingworth: I have expressed concerns about the threat to greenbelt, and the issues at Shillingworth, Bridge of Weir.

There is still such a thing as society: The parliamentary recess included a visit to Findlaystone, but the parliamentary events were back in full flow and I spoke recently for the government on the debate ‘There is still such a thing as society’.

Sustainable economic growth is the objective of the Scottish Government, but our National well-being will not be judged solely on economic growth, measures of GDP or economic value, but through our national performance framework a range of measures assessing whether we are making Scotland, fairer, healthier, stronger, greener, and safer locally and nationally.

Healthy Minds with Mo Ferrington,

Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist

High Performance Fear Getting you Across the Line Quickly and with ease

When you have to deliver in life, being relaxed can be misinterpreted as the way to hit peak performance without any pressure at all. Study laid back successful people; Richard Branson, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer to name but three. A balance between a healthy high performance fear and uncontrollable anxiety can be maintained if you consider these 4 factors: 1) Inner dialogue and the limbic system (self talk is important) Balancing the locus of control between what is inside and outside us is a critical factor in peak performance delivery. Consider giving a presentation where your limbic system is triggering anxiety. The ability to rationalise through your pre frontal cortex is decreased and adrenalin raises your heart rate, breathing and strong desire to fight or flight.

2) Hypnosis (safe and enjoyable) Is an effective tool to help desensitise the inner dialogue fears which may or may not have based upon real experience. Sometimes, an amount of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) can help shift unhealthy beliefs of ability prior to hypnosis. CBT can be undertaken alongside presentation preparation or sports training to aid a healthy inner dialogue and hypnosis used as visualisation tool to future success.

For more information on how HR Outsourced can help your business, contact Fiona Holmes BA MCMI Assoc CIPD on fiona.holmes@hroutsourced.co.uk or call 07970 104483.

The parliament debated universal services. I support policies this Scottish government has continued with; the council tax freeze, free education, free prescriptions, and free personal care. Scotland can afford these policies.

Over the period 1980-81 to 2011-12 as a whole, Scotland is estimated to have run an average annual net fiscal surplus equivalent to 0.2% of GDP, whilst the UK is estimated to have run an average net fiscal deficit worth 3.2% of GDP. Although the UK Governments allowed Scotland’s’ economic performance to lag behind comparable European nations, Scotland’s fiscal position is relatively stronger than that of the UK. Scotland pays her way, and her hardworking people don’t expect and haven’t asked for something for nothing, they ask that we use that wealth to build a strong society.

We have promoted entrepreneurship, enterprise, and economic growth.

Our economic strategy targets growth opportunities, our rates relief give the most generous package of reliefs in the UK. I look forward to hearing from our town centre advisory group on how to help revitalise local town centres shortly.

Good news on employment recently. Lower unemployment, higher employment, and lower youth unemployment than compared to the UK. are influenced by what is around us. By recognising this and using hypnosis to help reduce assumptions and biases, this effect can be managed to enhance performance.

4) Focus on the process A key element of sporting peak performance is to get athletes on the field to deliver what they are trained to do. Practice and training builds physical and mental conditioning in preparation for taking the field. There is little point in trying to give an important presentation without considering what you need to deliver! Hypnosis can be en effective learning tool to help the mind remain focused and adaptable to growth and changing demands.

5) Focus on the outcome Aspiration is important and being able to have an eye on the prize aids intrinsic motivation. However, over attention towards the outcome can affect performance because thoughts are away from the process in the present.

Visualisation techniques may or may not use hypnosis to help increase physical and mental endurance. See it, feel , then it’s so much easier to do.

Bringing all factors together and understanding how they influence each other is a key element to bringing you best onto the field, stage or meeting room. Sports psychologists and mental toughness coaches often describe this as a state of effortless effectiveness in their athletes. Hypnosis techniques to reduce elements of anxiety, increasing clarity and resilience are effective tools to achieve this.

Exams, Tests, Golf, Tennis, the list is endless, but the method is universal and as the Olympics showed us all so clearly, anyone with the right focus and determination will reach their goal - Hypnosis is a tool that helps get them there.

3) External environment and framing The framing effect is described as the effect of context and external environment on behaviour. When stepping onto a stage or sporting pitch, we

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Jennifer Buchan Humanist Celebrant After studying and training with the Humanist Society Scotland, I am now qualified to compose and conduct non-religious funerals.

I have shadowed fellow celebrants for many months, undertaken a residential course, then, spent a full day a Maryhill Crematorium, before further training and mentoring by celebrants and funeral directors throughout Lanarkshire.

Overhauling Young Driver Rules

The whole process has been an enlightening and really positive experience. I have been able to draw on my existing skills and experience (previously I was a journalist, a nurse and I have acted professionally) to help families deal with some of their most difficult times. It is an enormous privilege to write a personal tribute, which I can then share with the family and friends at the ceremony - a cremation or a burial. Each ceremony is unique as it reflects a personality - one person, their life, their story, with their choice of music, songs, and poetry. A Humanist ceremony is a fully inclusive ceremony where everyone is welcome to celebrate a life lived and to say a fond farewell to the person who has lived it. I can honestly say that being a Humanist Celebrant is the most emotionally rewarding job I have ever done.

To find out more about a Humanist Ceremony, contact Jennifer Buchan on 01505 612300 or 07889 796360, or email jennifer.buchan@humanismscotland.org.uk

The government has announced plans to overhaul young driver rules to improve safety and reduce insurance costs.

Among the proposals being considered are a minimum learning period, driving practice on motorways, in poor weather conditions and during darkness, more rigorous testing in preparation for driving unsupervised, longer probationary periods and incentives for post-test training.

The government is also considering improving the training of driving instructors and giving parents and young drivers advice on choosing an instructor.

Study Into Discounted House Sales The OFT has launched a study into the ‘quick house sale’ market and is calling for people who have used, or considered using, these businesses to contact the OFT about their experiences.

Quick house sale providers offer to buy a house or find a third party buyer very quickly, usually at a discount from the full market value. While providers may offer a valuable service, the OFT is concerned that some practices might lead to homeowners receiving much less for their property than it is worth. Any losses could be very high.

The OFT is particularly concerned about the risks to people in financial difficulty - including those who have worked up large amounts of debt or are facing repossession. Consumers at risk may also include those who need to sell their property quickly following a relationship breakdown or the elderly, who might need money to pay for their care.

Practices that would give rise to concern include: • Unclear fee structures, for example imposing an unexpected fee following an encouraging initial valuation, as a condition for progressing the service.

• Reducing the price offered at the last minute after someone is financially committed to the transaction.

• Making misleading claims about the value of the property or the level of discount to be applied to the sale.

• Falsely claiming to be a cash buyer.

• Inducing consumers to enter into agreements that prevent them from selling to other buyers, with severe penalties for breach of contract.

The OFT has asked over 50 quick house sale firms to provide information on their business models and practices and would welcome evidence from people with experience of this sector, including valuation experts, estate agents, debt advisors and home owners.

For more information, see the market study page. Anyone who wishes to contact the OFT can email quickhousesales@oft.gsi.gov.uk, call 08457 22 44 99 or write to the address below by 16 May 2013.

Quick house sales, 7th Floor, Office of Fair Trading, Fleetbank House, 2-6 Salisbury Square, London EC4Y 8JX

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Speeding traffic is a concern for many of us. I await the results of the expected Driver Feedback speed monitoring signs, which should be installed in both directions on Kilmacolm Road, Bridge of Weir for 7 days to gauge the extent of the speeding problem. The results of this monitoring will determine the next course of action. Driver Feedback signs are available upon request. If you feel that drivers are ignoring the speed limit where you live then please get in touch with me.

Bridge of Weir village has been experiencing congestion through the village, which may have been caused by the cameras at the traffic lights not “seeing” traffic. Some right turning traffic did not get the green arrow to turn up Houston Road, causing a back log. These cameras have now been re-aligned so as to see the traffic.

Works around the viewing platform on the River Gryffe in Bridge of Weir, part of the River Gryffe Walkway, are looking good. New steps and banisters have been put in and the paths resurfaced. There are many good walks in Renfrewshire. If you are in a walking club or would like to join one then please get in touch. Such a club could help identify where walking routes need repairs and maintenance.

A site visit has been arranged with a Council traffic officer, community councillors and myself to try and come up with a solution to the blind bend under the bridge at Station Road, Langbank. A mirror, though an obvious solution, does not appear to be an option. Watch this space. The poor condition of Station Road is also of concern. A further site visit is arranged.

Litter bin provision is being reviewed throughout Renfrewshire. If you think a bin is required somewhere then please drop me a line. The review should be complete by the end of July.

BoW has two successful groups serving senior citizens:- BoW Senior Citizens is a social group while the Elderly Forum is an action group. If anyone in Langbank or Bishopton is interested in forming a group for the senior citizens then please contact me.

The lack of a planned new health centre in Dargavel is of serious concern. I have written to the director of Renfrewshire Community Health and a meeting has been arranged to discuss health provision in Bishopton.

I am available to meet residents in each of the three villages. Surgery details: Bishopton Community Library - 1st Monday of every month (6.30pm), Cargill Hall - 2nd Monday of every month (7.30pm), Langbank Village Hall - 3rd Monday of every month (6.30pm).

Tel: 0300-300-1291 or by email to cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk Working with you and improving our local area. Please feel free to contact me with any of your concerns and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time.

Boat Stolen!

This boat was stolen on Wednesday 24th April at 10.50pm from Burndale Workshops yard in Bridge of Weir.

It is a ‘Mariah 182 Bowrider’ and the registration number on side of boat reads ‘M1747’. It was towed away by a Silver Landrover Discovery.

If you have seen it or can provide any information regarding its whereabouts, please telephone, 01505 614722.

History Society Outing Our Day Visitb on Tuesday 28th May includes transport by coach, a guided tour of The Trades Hall Glasgow, lunch & a guided tour of Maryhill Burgh Halls. Full booking details can be obtained from secretary Lorraine 01505 612202.

Congratulations to the Bridge of Weir Primary School team who have reached the grand final of the Euroquiz and will fly the flag for Renfrewshire at the Grand Final in the Scottish Parliament. The quiz is organised by the Scottish European Trust to develop knowledge of Europe and the European Union. All the best for the finals!

I’m pleased the car park at the Co-op in Bishopton now has a painted crossing making the area safer for pedestrians especially children and those who use wheelchairs. This has taken a while to do and fortunately no one was injured in the meantime.

A number of roads and pavements will be resurfaced over the coming months in Ward 10. This includes the pavements in Cairns Road / Glen Road and Dunsmore Road in Bishopton and Ranfurly Road in Bridge of Weir. Significant resurfacing work will also take place on Kilmacolm Road, Kilbarchan Road and Montrose Terrace. The council will be spending £5.7million on roads – a record amount – we would like to get our roads and pavements to a standard our residents deserve. Unfortunately our grant settlement from the Scottish Government means that Renfrewshire Council gets £44 less for every person every year than the Scottish average – a total loss of over £7million each and every year.

The housing improvement programme is almost complete in Bridge of Weir.

A number of tenants have been in touch with me to iron out issues – some fairly minor but others more substantial. Please get in touch with me if you have any outstanding issues.

The footpath on Erskine Ferry Road is now complete. This would not have happened without the efforts of a great many people – the residents of Home Farm Steading, the Community Council, Mr Kerr who gifted the land and, last but not least, Cllr Langlands (a political foe and a personal friend) who lobbied hard for this footpath to be created.

Many of the UK Government’s welfare reforms are now in effect. These are already causing real hardship for families across Renfrewshire and I have seen an increase in the number of constituents coming to me about benefits issues. The Council is doing what it can to help – we have recruited 50 staff to assist and support people and also to deal with the increased workload with local authorities now responsible for crisis grants and community care grants. Many of the changes are complicated and it is essential that if you are affected you get expert advice. The Council’s website (www. renfrewshire.gov.uk/benefitchanges) contains up–to-date information or from Advice Works on 0300 300 1238.

E-mail: cllr.michael.holmes@renfrewshire.gov.uk Surgeries: 4th Monday: Langbank PS (from 6pm) and Bishopton Library (from 6.45pm) and Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 4th Wednesday (from 6.30pm). Tel: 0300 300 1295.

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Bridge of Weir Community Council Prior to our April meeting, Bridge of Weir Community Council learned from Councillor James MacLaren that McGill’s Buses were introducing changes to the X6A service from Johnstone Station via Bridge of Weir to Glasgow, starting 22nd April.

Further investigation by the Community Council revealed that they were to reduce the service from 10 evening journeys to 3, Monday to Saturday. This resulting in the last bus to Glasgow from Bridge of Weir will be 6.44pm and the last bus from Glasgow to Bridge of Weir will be 7.35pm.

The Community Council have written to Strathclyde Passenger Transport stating these cuts are totally unacceptable for the community of Bridge of Weir as it completely cuts the village off in the evenings. The effect this will have on workers, students attending evening classes, hospital visitors and socialising will be devastating. We have urged SPT to use their utmost powers to reverse this decision, and by copying in our MP, MSPs and Councillors we have enlisted their support.

McGill’s have informed us that the blame lies with the Scottish Government who have cut their re-imbursement for concessionary fares between April and December this year by £1.5 million. The Community Council received a correspondence from MSP Derek MacKay’s office forwarding an email from Ralph Roberts Managing Director McGill’s Bus Services stating that the Strathclyde Passenger Transport saw fit to produce a tender for a subsidised operation for the X6A Service and that McGill’s had been accepted.

So thanks to the SPT there will be no change for this service. The email further stated the crux for the Bridge of Weir Community Council there will be no change to the X6A service. This concurs with a discussion the Community Council Chairman had with an official of the SPT although we are awaiting the formal letter.

The April meeting was a very low key affair with just under half of the membership able to attend and neither of the invited Guest Speakers, Councillors or Police able to attend.

The meeting heard of a Traffic Speed Survey taken in Bridge of Weir recently, results showed unacceptable speed levels in built up areas within the Village. The Community Council is to write to the Police Traffic Division to see what measurers are being taken to combat this.

The Community Council was sent an engineer’s report that all was well with the Traffic Lights at Torr Road, Houston Road Main Street junctions.

Members disputed this and agreed to monitor the situation prior to the next meeting.

The Community Council is to write to Renfrewshire Council urging them to take action against fly posting. This includes some of their out of date notices.

Film Nights at the Bridge

On Friday 3rd May, the film is “An Inspector Calls” (U) - Based on a story

by J B Priestley this classic mystery is set in 1912, but filmed in 1954. With Alastair Sim and Jane Wenham.

On Thursday 16th May we will be showing “Oliver” (U) - Lionel Bart’s outstanding musical based on the Charles Dickens story with Oliver Reed, Ron Moody, Shani Wallace and Harry Secombe.

For all events, entry is free, but any donations to Bridge funds is very welcome. Doors open from 6.30pm and the film starts at 7pm.

A date to take out of your diary The Christmas Lights Switch on will not be held on the 27th of November. The new date will be announced shortly.

BoW Embroiderers’ Guild

We have finished now for the summer, but will be back in September. If you want any further information contact Sue Whitaker 01505 612979.

St Mary’s Lecture The Great Takeover: How materialism, the media and markets now dominate our lives.

Carol Craig will be speaking about her new book, which is part of the Postcards from Scotland series. She is Chief Executive of the Centre for Confidence and Well-being and is also the author of The Scots Crisis of Confidence and The Tears that made the Clyde.

Please join us on Wednesday 8th May at 7pm and enjoy another stimulating lecture at St Mary’s Church, Bridge of Weir, followed by refreshments and the opportunity for informal discussion afterwards. For information, please call 01505 842629.

Happy 1st Birthday...

Bernie’s Celebrating one year on the 19th May. Thank you to all our customers, the local community and of course all the staff for your support.

Bernie

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir The Council has been in recess over Easter. Consequently, things have been a bit less busy. That plus a virus which put me out of action for 3 weeks have combined to make the last month unusually quiet.

Bridge of Weir: Several people contacted me about the change to the McGills bus timetable. McGills issued an information bulletin, confirming that the X6A timetable will operate as usual, with SPT subsidising seven evening journeys.

Langbank: Dog fouling is a problem in various parts of the ward. It can be an unpleasant hazard to pedestrians, but why do some dog owners think it is a good idea to leave it on the pavement neatly parcelled in a plastic bag? Who do they think will pick it up? Do they believe in a poo fairy?

Why can’t they follow the example of responsible dog owners and take their bagged poo to a litter bin or home to be safely disposed of? I shall ask Environmental Services for more litter bins and hope this will help, but meantime please take it home!

Bishopton: The three local councillors intend to meet with the Director of the Community Health Partnership to discuss why the proposed new health centre plans appear to have stalled, so that we can try to find if there is a way forward.

Registering to vote: The Council has been made aware of a number of companies advertising on the internet offering to register your vote for a fee. Registration is straightforward and free so there is no need to use these companies.

Police: There is a new contact number for the Police for NON URGENT matters. It is 101 and is charged at 15p per minute.

Welfare Reform: An updated information booklet has been produced by Renfrewshire Council, in an attempt to keep people abreast of the constantly changing details that the Westminster Government issues, in relation to these draconian cuts. If you need help or advice please contact Advice Works helpline on 0300 300 1238 (Mon to Fri 1pm -4pm) I can be contacted by email at: cllr.maria.brown@renfrewshire.gov.uk, by phone: 0300 300 1259, mobile: 07534 148 734 My surgeries are: Bridge of Weir 1st Tues of month at Cargill Hall 6.30pm - 7pm. Bishopton 2nd Wed of month at Bishopton Community Library 6.15pm - 6.45pm.

Langbank 2nd Wed of month at Langbank Village Hall 7pm - 7.30pm.

Christian Aid Week Christian Aid Week commences Sunday 12th May, the theme is “Bite Back at Hunger”. Today around 870 million people are desperate for food, one in eight people will go to bed hungry tonight - this is a scandal. But if we “Bite Back at Hunger” this Christian Aid Week we can help communities find ways to not only survive but to thrive, with enough food to eat not just today but tomorrow. We understand the uncertainty and concern regarding the current economic climate, but would ask that consideration be given to those less fortunate than ourselves, in the developing world.

The Christian Aid Group and their band of supporters will again be undertaking The Christian Aid Week Collection throughout Bishopton during the week commencing Sunday 12th May. If you helped last year then you will be contacted to check if you are able to help again. If you have not been involved before, but would be able to assist this year then please contact Jim Blair (01505 352223) or any member of the Christian Aid Group.

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May The Summer Be With Us!!

Brighter Bridge of Weir is taking a gamble this year. Placing its faith in the law of averages, the group is betting on this summer lasting longer than the few days of recent years.

And so they are launching two Village Clean-Up Days in May. It’s a fairly big task for a small group and they’re asking for your help. If you have a couple of hours to spare on Saturday 11th and Saturday 18th May - either, or both you could contribute towards a brighter Bridge of Weir.

The group’s Chair, Alice Johnstone, told us, “We’re aiming to have a general clean-up at various locations in the village so that when the sun does shine, the place will look so very much better.”

Treasurer Margaret Greenlees added: “There’s a lot to be done and only a few of us to do it, so we need all the help we can get.”

As the group is hoping for the cooperation of village residents, it’s perhaps appropriate that they’ll be assembling beside the Cooperative in Livery Walk from 9.30 on each of the two dates. Litter-pickers and refuse bags will be provided to all volunteers, and snacks and soft drinks will also be available. “Just don’t wear your best outfit,” advises Alice.

Even if you can only spare an hour or two, or manage only one of the days, please help. Contact Alice on 01505 613679, or visit the website - www. brighterbridgeofweir.org/ news - for more details.

Or you could just show up on the day. Whichever you choose, you can be sure of a warm welcome.

Langbank Coffee &

Crafts for Cancer Many thanks who all who came along and supported our Cancer Charities Coffee Morning, on Sat 20th April - We raised £850, to be divided between Mc Millan Nurses, Ardgowan Hospice and Breast Cancer Care. Although the numbers attending were lower than previous years, all who came were extremely generous, and the organisers were delighted with the amount raised.

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BoW SWRI

Bridge of Weir Rural held it’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 4th April where our speaker was Marion Dornan who gave us an insight into her time as Federation President.

The results of the Mini Show are, Woodrow Cup, Three Houseplants in a Container, Janine Breckenridge, Muirhead Cup, Beetroot Chocolate Cake, Nan Blair and the Duncan Cup, A Peg Bag in any Craft, Linda Taylor.

In the Points Cup were 1st Mabel McPherson, 2nd Linda Taylor and 3rd Janine Breckenridge.

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Coffee Morning and Plant Sale A Coffee Morning and Plant Sale will be held in Bishopton Community Centre from 10am to 12 noon on Saturday 11th May. After selecting your plants, you can enjoy a cake plus a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee, and find out about World Fairtrade Day which is also held this year on 11th May. Tickets £2 for adults, with children free.

We would ask all budding and experienced gardeners to assist us again, or for the first time, in providing any plants for the sale. In addition, we would be grateful for assistance regarding identifying plants and giving advice to nongardeners at the Plant Sale.

Art ExhibitionRab Wilson The Bridge Post Office will now be closed for half an hour lunch on Mondays from 12noon -12.30pm Opening times:• Monday 9am - 5pm (1/2hr lunch) • Tuesday 1pm - 5pm • Wednesday 10am - 2pm • Thursday 10am - 2pm • Friday 1pm - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 1pm

Bridge Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir.

From Monday 13th May for six weeks at the Bridge Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. Art exhibition of art by local artist Rab Wilson who works from his studio in Quarrier’s Village. A series of portraits, surrealism, landscapes and still life.

Bridge of Weir TARA At the Annual General Meeting on 16th April, we welcomed Councillor Michael Holmes who led a good discussion on welfare reforms, with the main topic being the new bedroom tax. There are a number of ways of paying this – at the post office, by direct debit, or at your local housing office.

Bedroom tax will not be classified as an ‘arrears’, but as a ‘debt’. This means tenants can’t be evicted through bedroom tax, but still can be evicted through rent arrears. For more information contact your local housing office at Floors St, Johnstone.

TARA is growing in numbers all the time and supports a number of local groups within the village with any issues they are experiencing. One of these is Brighter Bridge of Weir, who now provides TARA with a monthly update at each of our meetings.

If you wish to participate please come along to one of our meetings, or come along to our stall at Bridge of Weir Gala Day on 8th June and see what’s on offer. We would like to take this opportunity to wish the Bridge of Weir Festival every success on Gala Day and Festival Week and any activities through the year.

For any other enquiries contact a member of TARA or come along to our friendly meetings on 3rd Tuesday of each month in the Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir at 7.30pm. Our next meeting will be on 21st May.

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St Mary’s Church Delighting to praise God; Showing Christ’s love; Growing in faith Morning Service on Sundays at 10am; we have a regular cycle of prayer for those who live and work in Bridge of Weir. The dates of prayers for local roads are as follows: 5th May - Livery Walk; 12th May - Loch Place & Road; 19th May - Lochar Road; 26th May - Main Street; 2nd June - Maxwell Place For further information see our noticeboard, or to ask for special prayers, or in pastoral emergency please call 01505 612807 / 01505 842629 or 01505 613402.

Langbank Welcomers’ Christian Aid Sale & Coffee Morning Langbank Church Youth Group, ‘the Welcomers’, has pledged to raise £500 by the end of June, to fund the work of one malaria control volunteer for one year, as part of the Christian Aid Tackle Malaria project.

In November, this very active small group donated £430 to Farm Africa’s ‘Give Hunger the Boot’ campaign, and has already raised £200 towards this present project. They are hoping to add to this, by holding a sale of CDs, DVDs, books, games and jigsaws, along with a coffee morning with home baking, on Saturday 11th May from 10am – 12noon, in Langbank Parish Church.

Please support these enthusiastic young people, by coming along, having a browse, and enjoying a cup of coffee and home baking.

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Kilmacolm Dramatic Society

Christian Aid Week

By now ‘Calendar Girls’ is but a (not too) distant memory.

My thanks to everyone in the cast & crew who put so much into it and to those of you who so generously came along & supported us. Talking of support - hats off to the ladies in the calendar - after all, they took their bras off for us (& for charity)!

Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christian Aid Committee are asking for your help with Christian Aid Week, held nationally 12th-18th May.

No sooner is the Spring production over than we start looking forward to our Autumn production. By popular demand we intend to put on another, our second, pantomime. Work is already in progress. We have started putting together our technical teams &, before long, we shall be starting the mammoth task of casting the chosen piece.

We endeavour to call at every house in the area, asking for a donation into the traditional red envelope, (ticking the box for Gift Aid if you are a taxpayer).

Why do all the men want to play the Dame? Why can’t we get a boy to play Principal Boy? Why does the villain always enter & exit stage left? The last one at least, I can answer. Because the left or ‘dark’ side of the stage was traditionally, in ancient Italian theatre, used to symbolise the entrance to Hades, whereas the right side of the stage was used to symbolise the entrance to Heaven - from whence cometh the Good Fairy! More, exciting facts to come - maybe!

Help is needed - could you volunteer a few hours of your time during Christian Aid Week to help with the collection? Please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393 if the answer is Yes!

If you want to be involved in the panto, please contact me on: 01505 872465 or Rosie Thirde on: 01505 873088

Three Sisters Bake Regular Events

Knitting Group - Every Wednesday 10am-12pm, Knitters of all levels welcome!

Baby Social - Every Tuesday 11am. An excuse for Mums to drink coffee,

Finally, grateful thanks to the faithful collectors who support us year by year. And grateful thanks to everyone who places a few pennies or a few pounds into the red envelopes during Christian Aid Week - every penny, every year, has made an enormous difference to the work of Christian Aid in many countries, and will continue to do so.

eat cake and swap tales of sleepless nights!

Scotland West Business Networking Group - First Tuesday of every month from 9.30am-11am. Whether you are considering life as an entrepreneur, work from home or have already started up in business, come along and share ideas, listen to our guest speakers and meet new people.

Bagels & Business - Women’s Business Networking Group - Last Thursday of every month - 9.30am-11am. The perfect opportunity to meet like minded women in an informal networking situation. Call 01505 228087 or email threesistersbake@gmail.com for further info.

ALSO Weekly Scouts/ Beavers, fitness classes & art classes.

Please contact Three Sisters Bake, Somerville Hall, Quarriers Village, for further information on 01505 228087 or visit the website at www. threesistersbake.co.uk ‘LIKE’ us on Facebook www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/ThreeSisters-Bake/233062833400229 to receive Offers, Discounts, News & Events!

Art Class

Kilmacolm Art Class had a very successful exhibition last month in spite of inclement weather and a change of venue.

The standard of work exhibited was very high, as always, and the members were delighted that so many people turned out and found their way to the top floor of The New Community to admire, and purchase, works of art.

Kilmacolm Camera Club

Once again, the KCC has completed its 2012/13 season. In traditional, end-of-term fashion, we have held our AGM and our annual prize giving. Bill Ham was “summa cum laude” this year in most of our internal competitions, and made off with an armful of trophies. On a sunny day, Bill’s glinting trophy cabinet is one of the few man-made objects to be visible from outer space! Also among the prize winners were Janice Stevenson (Best Monochrome Image) and John Watson (Summer Assignment Quaich).

Although the official season has ended, Club members will be venturing forth on various evening photo trips over the summer months.

The aims of these trips are 1) to learn some practical tips from fellow photographers; 2) to make photography fun; 3) to get eaten by midges (especially if it’s Luss!). We meet at the Cross on the second Tuesday of the month, at 7pm. Watch the Advertizer or the KCC Facebook page for more details. You’ll be very welcome to join us at Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01; on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm. Contacts: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595.

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kilmacolm & quarriers The Council’s new flagship £700,000 park and ride facility at Port Glasgow station – funded by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) - is open for business. There are 150 spaces available, including 8 for disabled drivers, and parking is free all day. There is a frequent train service to Glasgow from Port Glasgow station as it is on both the Gourock and Wemyss Bay lines. The investment in the park and ride follows earlier investment by SPT in the upgrading of Port Glasgow bus terminus.

The resurfacing of part of Gryffe Road in Kilmacolm (between Bridge of Weir Road and Houston Road) is scheduled for Tuesday 7 May to Saturday 11 May. Diversions will be in place. This is part of the Council’s record £17m investment in upgrading roads, footways and street lighting over the next 3 years.

I am delighted to report that an interim refurbishment of pupil and staff toilets at Kilmacolm Primary School will be carried out during the coming summer.

The full £3.7m refurbishment of the school is scheduled to commence in July 2015 and be completed by October 2016. The provision of the new sports pitch is planned for financial year 2014/15.

The proposed redevelopment of the site of the former Kilmacolm Community Centre and adjoining shops is progressing, with a planning application likely to be submitted in the near future. I am advised that the new development will comprise of two shop units – one large and one small - on the ground floor and flats above.

I was invited by Quarriers to act as an independent scrutineer for the recent Common Users’ Referendum to decide if they would continue as property manager. After a long, and at times difficult, meeting in Somerville Weir Hall on 17 April, a clear majority of those who voted agreed to support Quarriers continuing to manage the common areas on their behalf. Quarriers recognise that residents do have a number of concerns over the basis of how they charge for their services and the quality of the services. I would hope that Quarriers will work with residents to try to resolve these issues in a spirit of genuine partnership.

I was pleased to hear when I was at the meeting in Somerville Weir Hall that the plans for the provision of a passenger lift and an accessible toilet are progressing well. This work is being funded by a £41,000 grant from the Council.

My advice surgeries are advertised on the Council’s website (www. inverclyde.gov.uk) and in The Greenock Telegraph. My next surgery in Kilmacolm is on Tuesday 28th May in the Community Centre from 6pm to 7pm. I also have a surgery in St Francis Primary School, East Barmoss Avenue, Port Glasgow on Tuesday 14th May from 6pm to 7pm.

You can contact me directly to discuss any matters that are of concern to you by telephone on 01475 712020 (during office hours) and 871368 (home) or by email to Stephen.McCabe@inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm PA13 4HL. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my blog: http://councillorstephenmccabe.blogspot.com/. You can also follow me on Twitter @Kilmacolm1.

At the Full Council meeting on 11th April we put forward a motion calling on the UK Government to abolish the ‘Bedroom Tax’ as soon as possible. The motion also called on the Scottish Government to use its devolved housing powers to protect both Council and Registered Social Landlord Tenants from being evicted as a result of arrears relating to this new policy. This policy will affect the most vulnerable in our society and is the wrong thing to do. I’m pleased to say that the motion was passed.

My surgeries this month are on Thursday 9th May in Boglestone Community Centre, Port Glasgow, from 6-7pm and Tuesday 21st May in St Francis Primary School, Port Glasgow, from 6-7pm. Please feel free to contact me anytime to discuss any issues and I’ll do my best to assist. You can reach me on 01475 712727 (during office hours) and 01475 741234 (at home) or by emailing me at james.mccolgan@inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at 2 Crawford Street, Port Glasgow, PA14 5EL. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my blog: http:// jamesmccolgan.wordpress.com. You can also follow me on Twitter @ jamesmccolgan.

Editor’s note: Cllr McColgan also reported on the PG Park & Ride, Gryffe Rd resurfacing and KPS upgrades, but due to space limitations we had to limit this particular content to that reported by Cllr McCabe above.

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kilmacolm & quarriers Old Kirk Fete

The Kilmacolm Old Kirk Annual Fete will be held onSaturday 15th June between the times of 11am and 3.30pm, in The Manse grounds at Glencairn Road, Kilmacolm.

There will be a musical theme to the event as we will be being entertained by the champion band The 2nd Port Glasgow BB Marching Band, Step Up and Dance, a local dance school, and a musical group from Kilmacolm Primary School. The times that these groups will be entertaining us will hopefully be announced in the next edition of The Advertizer.

Bottle & Baking Stall

Kilmacolm friends of Ardgowan Hospice will be holding their usual Bottle & Baking Stall at the Kilmacolm Show on Saturday 11th May. All donations are greatly appreciated. Baking can be handed in at Kidston Hall on Friday 10th May between 2pm and 6pm. Donations of bottles to any committee member, or please phone 01505 872676 or 872343.

Kilmacolm Community Centre The Hub Cafe: open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday; Saturday 10am3pm.

Room‘s available for hire. Enquiries and bookings: contact staff on 01505 873994

Centre Activities: Mon: Yoga with Janis 10am-11am; Baby yoga with Janis 11.15-12.15pm; Anti Coagulant Clinic 1.30-3.30pm; Bridge 7.00pm-10.30pm; Audio Visual 7.45-9.45pm every 2nd Monday of the month; Fashion Class 6.30pm8.30pm; Karate 8pm-9.30pm; Santosa 6.30pm-8.30pm; Quilters 7.30pm9.30pm; La Clave 7pm-8pm ( from April) Tues: Hand Craft group 10am-12pm; Hartbeeps Toddlers Group 10am12.30pm; Group Fitness Kettle Bell with Paula 6.30pm-7.30pm; The Fashion Class with Marilyn 6.30-8.30pm; ACOL Bridge practise 7.3010pm; Rock choir 10am-12pm; Camera club 7pm-10pm Wed: Embroidery Group 10am -12pm; Group Fitness Circuits with Colin 7pm-8pm; The Fashion Class with Marilyn 6.30-8.30pm; Rhythm Time 10am-11am; Bridge for Beginners 2pm-4pm; Pensioners Lunch 1pm2.30pm Thur: Pilates 10am-12.30pm; Metafit 6.30-7pm; Everyday Mindfulness 1.30pm- 4pm & 5.30pm-8pm; Indoor Bowling Mixed groups 2pm-4pm; Karate 8pm-9.30pm Fri: Youth Club 6.30pm-10pm; Art Class with Ruth Lamont 10am-12pm Sat: Dance School 9.30-11.30am; Art Class with Denise 10am-12pm Table Tennis: We also have a table tennis table for hire at various times £5 for a half hour or £8 for the hour.

There will also be other non musical events such as Messy Church and Arts and Crafts for the kids, games and races, home baking, cup cakes, tombolas, paper back books, CDs, DVDs, jewellery and again ‘hopefully’ a gallery of ‘times gone by in Kilmacolm and district’. All this will be ‘capped’ by the event being opened by a Personality from STV.

Castle Hill Residents Association All the residents of Castle Hill Estate are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 8th May at 8pm in Kilmacolm’s Cargill Centre. Call 01505 873409 for further information.

We have a problem with parking in the village of Kilmacolm and a suggestion was put from the chair at the Community Council meeting that a car park in the field behind the old police house would be a convenient location, being relatively close to the village centre. There is really no alternative. This facility of course would have been provided if the St Columba’s extension had been approved. This is the sort of initiative that the joint Kilmacolm Civic Trust and Community Council traffic group could investigate.

I was invited, with others, by David Cameron to visit no 10 Downing to meet him and his special advisers. I was able to report that welfare reform is deemed necessary by a majority of my constituents in both the villages and Port Glasgow. I am afraid the benefits system has lost its way and priority must be given to the needy, especially when resources are limited.

The Prime Minister is a committed Unionist and spoke passionately on the subject, and I am involved in the Better Together campaign in Inverclyde with Lib Dem and Labour councillor colleagues. I have already spoken at schools and various organisations on the subject. I myself am a staunch Unionist.

As a director of the Beacon Arts Centre we are pleased that so far it has been a success and I can recommend a visit. The restaurant has had to take on extra staff and with a varied programme the theatre has been playing to full houses not just for the outstanding Nicola Benedetti. My wife and I attended the Inverclyde Schools Gala Concert and the performance received a standing ovation. She recognised former KPS pupils amongst the performers on stage who have taken their talents to greater things.

Interestingly, the Beacon stage is the same size as the Kings Theatre in Glasgow and will allow us to hold major productions. Our CEO and Artistic Director Julie Ellen is so professional and enthusiastic that we are fortunate to have her talents.

With the representatives of many village groups I attended the initial “Twinning” meeting under the chairmanship of Stephen Hampson. We will see where this goes though I do know my group is very keen to go visiting.

One of the pleasures of being Deputy Provost is attending 100 birthdays and diamond weddings. I was present along with Deputy Lord Lieutenant Alistair MacMillan at the celebrations of Mr and Mrs Lauchie Webster who were married 60 years ago in the old St Columba’s church in Glebe Road Kilmacolm. Their son Martin contacted the council and we were pleased to be involved recognising this wonderful day with flowers and a small present .

The 46th annual plant sale is in the Masonic Hall, Glebe Rd on 10th,11th,12th and 17th,18th,19th May. The 176th annual Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Show is at Knapps on Saturday the 11th May. The field is generously given by Lord Maclay and Robert Baxter and is a great day out for all the family. The success of day is in no little way due to the hard work of both the men’s and ladies’ committees.

The resurfacing of Gryffe Road will commence on the 7th May. Hallelujah!

Surgeries: 4th May 10am-11am Cargill Centre; 22nd May Boglestone CC 5pm-6pm. Tel: 01475 741969 and 712727 and 07766 992294.

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Top award for Travel a la Carte of Kilmacolm Congratulations to Charlotte Williams, manager of Travel a la Carte, Kilmacolm for many years, who has just received an award as ‘UK national Travel Agent of the month’ by Caribtours a specialist tour Operator to The Caribbean. This is the first time the company has made this award so what an accolade for her.

Exhibition & Sale Saturday 18th May : Quarriers Village

Artist Pamela Randal is holding a one-day art exhibition and sale of alloriginal fine art paintings, supporting Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Sommerville Hall, Quarriers Village (above Three Sisters Bake) on Sat. 18th May, from 10.30am - 4.30pm.

Further details: www.pamelarandal.co.uk

More Colour In Kilmacolm Thanks to those who responded so positively to the idea of enhancing the appearance of Kilmacolm by adding colour and floral interest with tubs and planters.

An open meeting will be held in Kilmacolm New Community Centre on Monday 13th May at 7.30pm at which it is hoped to establish the group formally, a necessary preliminary to applying for funds. An invitation is extended to anyone who would like to be involved to come along to that meeting. If the date doesn’t suit but you are interested, you can contact Peter at pmckerrell@hotmail.co.uk or 01505 872448.

Recently I attended the annual Enterprise Showcase in Greenock town hall where our schools had stalls exhibiting their various environmental and entrepreneurial displays.

Among the stalls some of the young people were selling Fairtrade produce. As in previous years I was very impressed by what the young people and their schools exhibited and had to offer for sale.

Last month I again received several complaints of speeding through Kilmacolm. As previously I forwarded these complaints on to the police, council and community warden service.

It is good to see that the council is about to carry out extensive road and pavements repairs throughout Kilmacolm and other parts of Inverclyde, not only over the coming year but the next three years. This extensive investment is long overdue and is warmly welcomed by all of us.

I was delighted to see that a community clean up was organised in Kilmacolm last month. This is the kind of good work that I helped to assist with in Port Glasgow last year when some individuals and a local scout group wanted to help clean up parts of the cycle track. At the time I helped them to get some equipment from the council to assist with this. A few weeks ago they were out again carrying out further work. Well done to all who took part with the clean up in Kilmacolm.

My next surgeries in May will be advertised in the local newspaper and on my posters. Anyone wanting to contact me can do so by phoning me at my council office on 01475 712727 or on my mobile phone 07747 765839, or by emailing me: jim.macleod@inverclyde.gov.uk or writing: Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Clyde Square, Greenock, PA15 ILY.

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch Lochwinnoch Arts Festival This year’s Lochwinnoch arts festival was a huge success.

There were over 16 events and performances over the 11 days.

The opening was carried out by local art enthusiast and supporter Mabel Adam to a large gathering of artists and friends of the festival. The art exhibition was well attended over the festival with a high standard of work being exhibited.

On Thursday at the golf club jazz enthusiasts were given a great session by Joni Keen and her wonderful trio she was and performed Ella Fitzgerald and many more well-known jazz performers of that time.

The Friday saw a great concert by Susie Lamont’s music pupils, always a hit with all. While Susie’s concert was in full swing the local pubs had music by local artists where there was a wide range of styles from Fran and Friends in the Brown Bull, Willie Gamble and band in Three Churches and Sean and friends in the Corner Bar. On Saturday Rowena Murray interviewed her friend Denis Canavan a stimulating and thought provoking talk. Down at the Castle Semple there were beautiful crafts on offer. In the evening Calder Church and friends performed the ‘World Premier’ of David the Musical a wonderful interpretation by musicians singers actors and more!! Also on Saturday Pauline Valance and Clare Robertson played music in the junction to the delight of the customers!

Sunday evening at the golf club saw a fine turn out of local guitarists to experience the BBC funded workshop. This was led by Stuart Nisbet a leading session musician who eloquently and skilfully demonstrated many aspects of guitar playing.

Monday saw a substitute writer as Janice Galloway could not come but Denise Mina a crime writer filled this slot at the last minute!! In support were the Lochwinnoch Writers with lovely readings of their work.

On Tuesday Pauline Valance was very busy entertaining the local ROAR group to her beautiful harp and singing and at night at the RSPB with Clare Robertson, Betty McKellar and the 6 poetry winners performed ‘Fur n Feathers ‘to a packed RSPB. Wednesday saw the first time performance in Lochwinnoch of the Glasgow Theatre Guild a hugely talented group of 16. They sang and danced their way through film and shows old and new.

Thursday and Friday saw our local Calder Drama perform the hilarious ‘Out for the Count’ and 5 excerpts from’ The Steamie’ two great performances(especially on night one when the protective cross broke!)

had ‘Clamjamfrie’ Clare and Pauline perform a great Cèilidh such great musicians from our own doorstep!

The ‘Grand Finale’ was a blaster the junior choir followed with members of the Scottish Philharmonic and the Lochwinnoch Choral society taking us musically round the world. Again a full house appreciated a musical delight.

Saturday saw the Krafty Kids having great fun creating lovely art work in the Parish Church. Down at the Junction the ‘Factory Street Quartet’ were wooing customers with their wonderful saxophone music.

The committee would like to thank all sponsors, helpers, photographers, artists who made this one of the best!

Saturday saw more lovely crafts at Castle Semple. Saturday night we

Looking forward to 2014!!

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A special tribute to Mabel who was at almost every event!!

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Fur ‘n’ Feathers at Lochwinnoch Arts Festival Andy Enjoys the Spirit of Lochwinnoch with Fur n Feathers at the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival The SNP’s Councillor for the Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch Ward, Andy Doig, has enjoyed the Spirit of Lochwinnoch with local poets and bards at the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival event Fur n Feathers on Tuesday 19th March at the RSPB Centre in the village. The SNP politician, who has commended the organisers of the ten day long Arts Festival for their efforts, said “Tonight I had the most fantastic evening at the Fur n Feathers event in the RSPB Centre in Lochwinnoch, a night of brilliant folk music by local folk duo Witches Brew, Clare and Pauline, an outstanding children’s poetry competition, and recitals from the unofficial Poet Laureate of Lochwinnoch, Betty McKellar. I have to pay tribute to Dr Morag Thow, and her Arts Festival team for organising this event”.

“One of the first songs which Witches Brew performed was called the Spirit of Lochwinnoch which was one of their best as well. Pauline and Clare used a range of eclectic instruments from Celtic to African, but used them all with skill and panache. Interestingly, all the songs had bird themes as our venue was in the RSPB, so that made the night very different as well”.

“I actually have known Betty McKellar for some years, as we are both members of the Johnstone Writers Group, and I am a great fan of her Scots nature poetry which was much influenced by her life in Lochwinnoch as a Sheep Farmer’s wife. Betty also did her bit to encourage a new generation of bards by helping out with the children’s poetry competition, all in all, a brilliant night was had by all”.

Contact – Cllr Andy Doig – 01505 327514 (hm) or 07951 073030 (mb) Pictured are Witches Brew Duo, Clare Robertson (left), and Pauline Vallance (right) and Cllr Doig, and Betty McKellar, Poet Laureate of Lochwinnoch.

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Memorial to Robert Allan, Kilbarchan’s Radical Poet Andy Campaigns for Cleaning and Restoration of Memorial to Robert Allan, Kilbarchan’s Radical Poet The SNP’s Councillor for the Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch Ward, Andy Doig, is campaigning for the cleaning of a Memorial Plaque and Fountain to Robert Allan, Kilbarchan’s Radical Poet (1774-1841), who was a friend of fellow Weaver Poet Paisley’s own Robert Tannahill. Councillor Doig, who has contacted Council officers calling on them to clean and restore the Memorial in his ward, said “Robert Allan was a true son of Kilbarchan, a Habbie Poet and political Radical, and was a close friend of the famous Paisley Poet, also a Weaver, Robert Tannahill. His memory lives on in Kilbarchan today through the Memorial Plaque and Fountain to him in Church Street, Kilbarchan, which was erected in his memory by the Kilbarchan General Society in 1932, and given over to the care of Renfrew District, and its successors, in 1975”.

“A constituent recently approached me and called for the Memorial Plaque to be cleaned and upon inspection I agreed that it could, and should, look better. I have written to council officers who have agreed to clean the plaque and tidy the bushes around it. I will continue to monitor this and ensure it is completed properly and will investigate the possibility of getting the fountain functional again as well”.

“Robert Allan and Robert Tannahill were both were great enthusiasts of Robert Burns, being members of the Paisley Burns Society. Robert Allan was, like Burns and many of the Kilbarchan Weavers, a political Radical, and supported the Radical Uprising of 1820 which demanded a Scottish Parliament and Workers Rights. He spoke in support of these demands previously in 1817 at a great public meeting in Kilbarchan, in what is now the East Church”.

“I see the restoration of the Robert Allan Memorial Plaque as another step to developing heritage tourism in Kilbarchan to help create new jobs and boost local traders in the village. It is near the iconic Weavers Cottage, the third highest visitor attraction in Renfrewshire, and close to the new Greenspace at Kilbarchan Cross. A better and brighten Memorial will another way to broaden the Habbie Tourist experience”.

Contact – Cllr Andy Doig – 01505 327514 (hm) or 07951 073030 (mb)

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Lochwinnoch Gala Day 2013 This year’s Gala Day will be held on Saturday 8th June 2013. Volunteers have been working hard over the winter months with preparations, which are now well advanced, for this year’s event. The theme for this year’s Gala Day will be “Scotland” and it’s hoped there will be some great costumes to fit in with the theme.

After the Easter holiday break, letters with more details will be going out to parents so that Lochwinnoch Primary School staff, pupils and their parents can work together on costumes for the parade, etc to make this a fun day out for everyone.

As Gala Day wasn’t held last year, it has been decided to choose Lochwinnoch’s Gala Queen from Primary 7 this year and in future years.

This ensures fairness, so that no child is missed in the selection process. In order to give more children the chance to have a special part to play in this year’s festivities, the Gala Queen will have a large entourage and there will be a number of children, from each school year, with individual roles to play.

The names of pupils from each year will be placed in a hat and Miss Park will draw out the required number for each year group. The special roles are:- 8 Bower Girls, Carnival King and Queen, 6 boys to carry a Saltire, 2 Ladies in Waiting, 2 Attendants and the Gala Queen.

Weaver’s Cottage, Kilbarchan There was a record number of visitors at the Weaver’s Cottage (NTS), Kilbarchan on Easter Sunday. Drawn by the good weather and the Cadbury’s Easter egg hunt an unprecedented ninety-eight adults and children came to the cottage, giving staff and volunteers one of their busiest ever afternoons. Visitor numbers are generally up on last year, perhaps reflecting stay at home holidays. Derek Alexander, the National Trust for Scotland’s Head of Archaeological Services dropped in last month on a routine visit. With the late Gordon McCrae Derek is co-author of ‘Renfrewshire, a Scottish County’s Hidden Past’, published last year by Birlinn. The book ranges from Palaeolithic times until World War Two. Photo shows Derek Alexander with the new book.

Members of the public are also invited to go over the top with their own costumes. Whether you’re in the parade or simply attending as a spectator, make sure you dress up in costumes from Scottish history or the awardwinning animated film “Brave” and be as creative as you like!

As in previous years, the parade will start at Auld Simon, 12noon for 12.30pm start and St Columba’s School Pipe Band will lead the procession through the streets. The police will close the roads to traffic while the parade makes its way to the Public Park.

Please note, it is important that each child taking part in the parade MUST BE accompanied by an adult, who will be responsible for their child’s safety.

On arrival at the Park, a great afternoon is in store for all. There will be live music, dancing and various events in the arena, Tug’o War, 5-a-side football, the finishing line of the Lochwinnoch Fun Run, numerous stalls, crafts, childrens’ rides and slides, static displays, face painting, snacks, refreshments, beer tent, ice cream and, of course, the Annex tearoom which is always a big hit with Gala Day fans. More details next month.

If you’re interested in booking a stall at this year’s Gala Day, hire prices remain the same as before, at £25 per pitch. Booking forms can be obtained from Calder Gallery & Framing or from The Junction in Main Street. Book your pitch early to avoid disappointment!

The Gala Day committee always welcome help from volunteers and hope they can count on local people to come forward, have fun and give some of their time to help out with this year’s event. If you can assist in any way, either before, during or after Gala Day itself, please contact Gala Day Convenor, Jane Owens, at: janeowens@hotmail.co.uk or Tel: 01505 842089. All that is left to say is, put the 8th June in your diaries, get to work on those Scottish costumes, come along and enjoy yourselves and keep your fingers crossed for fine weather for Lochwinnoch Gala Day 2013.

The attendance of around fifty Habbies at the last Kilbarchan Community Council would contradict the view that people are apathetic about politics. Issues discussed included continued concern by residents in Cartside Terrace about the total lack of consultation with villagers, myself, or the Community Council,

by Renfrewshire Council, about the decision to rip up all shrubbery at that area of the village. It makes crucial sense to have some shrubbery to act as a barrier for fast moving traffic coming off the A737, and entering the village, and I call on the Council to think again.

I regret to say that within the last week the Lochwinnoch Out of School Club has gone into liquidation, which leaves a gap in services for village parents, and many families depend on it as a lifeline. The last Education Board meeting of Renfrewshire Council took a regrettable decision to cut funding to LOSC which I stated to council officers was not perhaps the wisest move. Surely if they were struggling additional support should have been offered at this difficult time not pulled away. However, I am actively working with council officers to support village parents to put interim support in place, and liaising with parents on this.

My Kilbarchan advice surgery is on the second Wednesday of the month, excluding July, at 8pm in the Steeple Hall, and my Lochwinnoch advice surgery is on the fourth Wednesday of the month, excluding July, at 8pm in the McKillop Institute. You can also follow me on Twitter at CllrAndy4Ward8, call me on 07534 148224, or e-mail: cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk

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Kilbarchan Book Launch

Picture shows Kilbarchan author Jack Hastie with his new children’s book ‘Fraser’s Voices’, which tells the story of a boy who discovers that he can speak to animals and shares adventures with them, dealing with forest fires, rabies, pollution of burns and a dangerous intruder. ‘Fraser’s Voices’ was launched at the Old Library, Kilbarchan early in April. Fifty people attended and enjoyed music, hospitality and readings from the book, in which Jack was assisted by neighbour John Martin. Forty copies were sold at the launch and your copy is obtainable from Jack Hastie or from booksellers: published by Matador. Colin Campbell

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register During the month of May, we have a themed evening, this year the country is Ireland. Also we have a speaker who is very involved with next year’s Commonwealth Games and a visit to Dalgarven Mill, Kilwinning, an interesting month. For further information visit the website: www.nwr.org

Habbies Art Show Kilbarchan East C l u b Chairman Bob Church Finnie thanked all those who helped to make the show a success including the following sponsors:-

To book a place please call 01505 842404 or 842365. No later than the 15th to avoid disappointment. Cost of car and use of table £10. Set up time 9am.

If weather VERY wet sale will be held in the church hall. Tea/coffee/biscuits will be available in the small hall for £1.50.

I was delighted recently to attend both Lochwinnoch Arts Festival and Kilbarchan Art Show. The artistic talent displayed was stunning and continues a fine tradition in both villages. When talking to the participants I was minded to recall that when living in Gateside Place, Kibarchan I seemed to be surrounded by artistic neighbours! Rosalind Orr and Mary Armour among them both of whom great supporters of art in the village.

Finally I was delighted to hear of moves to honour in Glasgow, Kilbarchan born Mary Barbour, born in 1875 to a working class weaving family, who became Glasgow city’s first women Councillor and whose achievements in the working class movement became legendary. If any reader has information or knowledge of Mary in Kilbarchan I would be delighted to hear from them.

If you wish to discuss any matter with me please contact me at cllr.derek. bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk tel 0300 3001274 or mob 07534 156007. My next surgery will be on Saturday 4th May 9am at the Mckillop Institute and10am at the Steeple Hall.

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Saturday 11th May is World Fair Trade Day, and it will be marked in Kilbarchan in three venues. Fairly traded tea and coffee will be served at Bobbins. The same will be available at the Glenleven, along with scones made with Fair Trade ingredients. For folk who would like to purchase Fair Trade goods there will be a stall at the Weaver’s Cottage from 10am until noon. If you haven’t tried Fair Trade tea or coffee, which come in a variety of strengths and flavours, this is your chance to sample it, and to help producers in the developing world.

Car Boot Sale

The significant changes to Welfare Reform were introduced at the beginning of April. I will return to this issue next month with further information when the effects may be a little clearer. Meantime readers can visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/benefitchanges or tel: 0300 300 0288

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World Fair Trade Day, Kilbarchan

Lochwinnoch Parish Church will be holding a Car Boot Sale on Saturday 18th May from 10am - 3pm.

Residents in Lochwinnoch will welcome news of the resurfacing of Bridesmill Road between the A786 and Barnaigh Road. Meadside Road in Kilbarchan has recently been repaired also. Many of our pavements are also requiring attention and plans for the repair of footpaths in High Barholm Kilbarchan and Crookhill Gardens, Lochwinnoch, are part of the current programme of work as part of the £5.7 million record investment.

village news

Greenscene Houston floral arrangements, Pepe Bascetta - printing, Co-op Kilbarchan - donations

Lilias Day 2013

There is still time to get involved, if you are a local organisation or charity interested in coming along to raise money for your organisation, we still have stalls available. Please contact Anne Ferguson on 01505 705602.

Services continue on Sundays at 11am, with Sunday School, Bible Class and the crèche meeting from 10.45am.

The Bible Class have been busy getting sponsors for their walk on the Erskine Bridge, in aid of Christian Aid. The young people have raised a lot of money over the years and show great dedication.

Plant Sale and Pancake Morning.

This annual event takes place on Saturday 18th May in Kilbarchan East halls from 10am- 12noon. The plants are coming from a nursery in Stewarton and will be of good quality as usual. For order forms, contact 704502. Entrance is £2, children £1, which includes delicious freshlymade pancakes with butter, jam and/or cream (depending on how many calories you wish!!)

Please visit the East church stalls in Kilbarchan park on Lilias Day for fresh baking, the chance to win bottles and tins and of course the ever popular coconut shy.

The Old Library Centre Kilbarchan The Centre is pleased to welcome the QT Movers Class which is planned to start on Tuesday 7th May. It is hoped that this will be a popular addition to the Centre’s programme.

The Bridge, Yoga, Pilates and Computer classes remain very popular.

Some spaces often occur in these classes as people take advantage of early holidays. This can create a chance for you to try something new or to revive a past skill.

Our programme of entertainment includes many gigs from well known groups and artistes. The next of which is Friday 10th May when Old Man Luedecke will be appearing. Following that, the next booking is for a return visit from The Henry Girls on Sunday, 2nd June. The pleasant intimate setting of the venue means that seating is restricted to fifty and so booking is advised.

The volunteers at the Centre would welcome some more helpers to set out and clear away the seating and tables for the Concerts. This generally takes less that 30 minutes when we then have tea, coffee and a chat. If you would like to help please contact The Old Library Centre to record your interest and to find out more detail. Phone 01505 706070 or visit the centre. Open 10am-12noon and 2pm-4pm, Monday to Friday.

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howwood & elderslie Car Boot Sale & Grand Summer Fete

Being held by Elderslie Kirk on Saturday 18th May from 11am -3pm. Stalls, Tea room, games room, burgers, plants, chocolate fountains and much more. Come along and join in the fun and enjoy some good home baking.

Those wishing a pitch at the Car Boot Sale, should contact Fiona on 07920112109 by text or phone or Anne on 01505 346 209. Car pitches £10. Cars should be on site by 10.30am and can leave after 2.30pm. All proceeds of fete will go to our halls development fund.

Easter Egg Hunter: Howwood had its first Easter Egg hunt on Easter Sunday.

This was very well attended and everyone had a great time. As this was the first Easter Egg hunt we had no idea how many would attend however we were pleasantly surprised when we arrived at 2.30 for a 3.00pm start and we already had eager Easter Egg hunters. As a result there are several individuals who want to make this a regular event and even more enjoyable for next year. Look out for more events throughout the village which the kids and the family can enjoy.

HOWWOOD NEWS: I attended the first ever 6th year graduation ceremony at Johnstone High School on 18th April.

It was a terrific night full of humour and memories. It must be quite scary for these young people as they make their way in the world. However the school has gave them a great start in life and I was impressed by the commitment of the staff to pupils. I wish them all the best for the future.

As you will know new road markings have appeared in the centre of the village. After a few improvements they have been generally well received. However, across from Vinny’s shop the white centre line has been moved and with the parked cars there is very little room for cars coming from the Beith side. I am working to try to get this obvious danger sorted. I will keep you posted.

The annual community clean up happened at the weekend of the 13th and 14th April. This is organised by the Community Council and I did my bit by helping on the Saturday morning.

Dog Fouling: As I walk round the Ward especially in the villages I have been disappointed at the amount of dog fouling in the local area. As a dog owner myself I am aware of the responsibility of cleaning up after your dog. Failure to do this results in fines to the owners and puts local children and residents at risk of contracting diseases not to mention the mess that this makes to your local villages and towns. Please be extra vigilant, look after your community and clean up after your dog.

Roads Issues: I am currently working on a number of issues within the Ward in regards speeding traffic and road issues. This was highlighted further when a large jeep was parked opposite a junction within the Howwood area. The jeep was parked here for a full week causing significant difficulties for local residents and which actually resulted in a car accident due to poor visibility. Please be considerate when parking your vehicle as the impact on local residents and people accessing the village is horrendous. I have arranged a site visit with the roads department following this incident to avoid this happening in the future and will keep you updated on progress. There will also be works carried out to sections of the road and gulleys within the village to improve the local area.

My surgeries at present are being held weekly on a Thursday evening, however these will be subject to change and I will update you on these changes. Howwood Village Hall - 1st Thursday of every month - 6pm to 7pm, Cochrane Castle/St David’s Joint Campus, West Johnstone - 1st Thursday of every month 7.15pm to 8pm, Auchenlodment Primary School - 3rd Thursday of every month - 5.15pm to 5.50pm, Elderslie Village Hall - 3rd Thursday of every month - 6pm to 7pm. Surgery details may change particularly during school and public holidays, please call to confirm times and dates of surgeries. If you are unable to attend I am more than happy to meet with you at your home in order to discuss any issues that you may have.

You can also contact me on 01505 706568 or mobile 07534156198. email: cllr.stephen.mcgee@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Howwood is a lovely village but when you scratch the surface you would be amazed at the amount of rubbish dumped in bushes and other places that are just out of sight . One of the things I pulled out of the bushes was a metal headboard. It amazes me why anybody would dump such things in the bushes when it is just as easy for most people to take it to the civic amenity site in Johnstone .

However it was a worthwhile morning and it was great to see local people working to keep the village clean.

Some of the new benefit changes started on the 1st April.

When I go into the council buildings I can see how busy it has become.

The councillors offices are just behind the public area and we are being moved shortly to allow for more room and improvements for the public. It is a pity that this has been turned into a story about councillors spending money on themselves as it is a genuine attempt to create better facilities for the public and it is quite clear the current facilities are no longer fit for purpose.

I will finish now and remind you my Howwood surgery is on the 4th Thursday of the month in the Village Hall between 6pm and 7pm.

Beith Arts - Future Events

Our April concert was the last in the 2012/13 season, but we still have our annual Art Exhibition to come, from 3rd - 8th June. This is always a popular event, showing the work of local artists who never cease to amaze us all with their talent. You can buy pictures or small craft items at very reasonable prices. All are very welcome. The show is held in the Community Centre, Kings Road, Beith, and the opening times are Monday - Friday 2.30pm - 8.30pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm. Entrance is free.

Our new season opens with our first concert on 29th September - more details will be published in your August edition of The Advertiser. This will be our 49th year, and we have a first class programme lined up, so we hope to greet some more Renfrewshire music-lovers then. Have a good summer, and put that September date and the Art Show details in your diary now!

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houston, crosslee & brookfield Callanetics in Brookfield

Body shaping classes will shape your legs, reduce your hips, flatten your tummy, firm your upper arms, slim your inner thighs and lift and tighen your behind.

Classes in Brookfield Village Hall - Monday evening 7.15pm. Wednesday evening 5.15pm, 6.15pm + 7.30pm. Thursday + Friday mornings 9.15am + 10.30am.

Spaces are available in most of our regular classes.

Please telephone Gwyneth Bell on 07850 382238 for further information.

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All Change At The Houston Inn It’s heart-warming to see the exciting changes at the new Houston Inn. This sleeping giant of a country inn has come to life and been revitalised under the guidance of owners Pub Enterprises and local girl Jacqueline Donaldson in her role as General Manager.

From the time of its refurbishment at the end of last year, the Inn has regenerated itself with its ambiance and attention to detail that has brought a major change to the heart of the village.

Stevie Foley and his kitchen brigade have led the charge with some seriously excellent dishes on offer, all of which are made on the premises.

This month sees the launch of their second seasonal menu, again offering some traditional gastro dishes with a twist towards the summer. There’s something for all the family with the Houston Inn’s bar, restaurant, snug, function room, bedrooms and patio area.

HOST the Carrick Centre What’s on May 2013 Monday to Friday Houston Community Nursery 01505 615876 Monday to Friday Woodlands After School 01505 615438 MONDAY: Gryffe Camera Group 6th 7.30pm, Yoga (over 50’s) 1.15pm M Laidlaw 01505 842877 TUESDAY: Tots Gym class (except 2nd /9th) 1.30pm, Paint Pot Tots (weekly) 10am D Campbell 07789 262350, Pilates (weekly) 7.30/8.30pm J McKellar 01505 612391, Yoga (weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 WEDNESDAY: Camera Club (weekly) 7.30pm, Melody Makers 8th /22th 7pm, Drama Class 5pm-6pm C Collins 07814 699127, Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 4pm, Houston Community Council 15th 7.30pm, Councillors Surgeries 15th 6.30pm, French Class (weekly) Madame McDevitt 0141 886 6282 THURSDAY: Crafty Friends 2nd/16th /30th 7.30pm, Folk Club (weekly) 8pm, French Class (weekly) Madame McDevitt 0141 886 6282 FRIDAY: Galaxy Dancing (weekly except 10th) 3.30pm SATURDAY: Houston Kirk Carnival 11th, Galaxy Dancing (weekly except 11th) 9.30am SUNDAY: Baptist Church 11am & 6pm Booking enquiries to Ian Simpson 01505 612203 or Sandy Young 01505 613613 or The Coffee Shop

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Be the first to apply for a free Loyalty Card with loads of upcoming offers.

Special menu deals throughout the week are available, starting with the ever-popular £5 Happy Monday menu every Monday.

The kids can even borrow new iPads from the bar to keep them occupied while the adults get some precious time together.

So, if you’ve been, we’re sure you’ll agree. If you haven’t, well now is the time to go. Expect changes – you won’t be disappointed.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield Raffle Donations Welcomed

Organisers of the Houston Show are looking for donations for our raffle from local businesses to raise vital funds to continue to improve and grow Houston Show each year. This is a great opportunity to showcase your business to local people and attract new custom. It could be a local tradesman offering a service for free, a local restaurant, hotel or café offering a free voucher or leisure facilities offering a discount on membership. Please contact us houstonshow@hotmail.co.uk if you can assist in any way.

BRIDGE OF WEIR

church lists

Freeland Church, Rev KN Gray BA BD. Morning Service 10.30am. Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and Cornerstone. Evening Service 7pm Web site www.freeland.org.uk St Mary’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church.

Delighting to praise God; Showing Christ’s love; Growing in faith. Morning Service on Sundays at 10am; we have a regular cycle of prayer for those who live and work in Bridge of Weir. For further information see our noticeboard, or to ask for special prayers, or in pastoral emergency please call 01505 612807/ 01505 842629 or 01505 613402.

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Rev Suzanne Dunleavy BD DipEd. Sunday services at 10.30am. Crèche. Hearing aid loop system.

All welcome.

Hope Hall, Sun 1pm Sunday School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; Mon 6.30pm Investigators for Kids, 8pm Bible Study and Prayer.

Faith Christian Fellowship Sundays at 11am in the Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0800 298 4875 email: fcf@ lifeonfire.org.uk From the Baha’i writings - “See the truth in all religions, for truth is in all and truth is one!” For details of meetings call Bridge of Weir 615641

HOUSTON

Houston and Killellan Kirk. www.houstonkirk. org. 5th May 9.45am Early Service: The Sacrament of Holy Communion. 11am Morning Worship. 11th May Kirk Carnival: “50 Years of Dr Who!” 12th May 11am Morning Worship. 19th May 11am Morning Worship. Heart & Soul in Princes St Gardens Edinburgh. Bus will leave Church by 12.30pm. 26th May 9.45am Early Service.

11am Morning Worship.

Church of the Nazarene, Houston, at the Village Hall, Main street, Houston. PA6 7EL. Rev Benito S Coetzee. Family services at 10.30am with full toddler, children and youth activities running concurrently with the service. Youth meets at 6.30-8pm on Sundays. Word and Table Quiet Service held from 9 - 9.30am every third Sunday. Visit our website: www.houston.nazarene.org.uk St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston. Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: Tues-Sat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm.

Reconciliation: Sat 10-10.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.30-8pm. Exposition: As announced. Baptisms: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month by arrangement. Parish Priest: Rev Daniel J McLoughlin, Dip.Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). “Abbotsfield”, St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. Tel: 01505 612046, Fax: 01505 610556. Email: parish@stfillan.org.uk. www.stfillan.org.uk.

HOWWOOD

Howwood Parish Church, Sun 11am. Rev David Stewart. MA BD MTH. Prayer meetings held in the vestry every Sun at 10am & Fri at 7.30pm, 3 Bowfield Way.

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KILBARCHAN

Kilbarchan East Church. Services will continue at 11am, with Sunday School, Bible Class and the crèche meeting from 10.45am in the halls. Services will be conducted by Mr Russell Banks, our locum. All are welcome at our services. East Church Tots’ Club-this continues on Mondays from 9-11.30am in the hall. The Drama group will be performing the well-known comedy “Flint Street Nativity” later in the year. For further information on East Church activities, please visit the website: www.kilbarchaneastchurch.btck. co.uk Kilbarchan West Parish Church. Minister – Rev Arthur Sherratt BD. Services continue at 11am on a Sunday and the Midweek Fellowship on Wednesdays at 10.30am in the Session House. The latter is a very informal get together with tea, coffee and chat before a short act of worship at 11am.

Please come along and join us. You will be made most welcome.

Houston And Killellan Agricultural Show Our annual show of Cattle, Horses and Sheep will be held on Saturday 1st June at Houston Public Park, commencing at 10am with judging at 11am.

The ever popular ‘Houston’s Got Talent’ with young local people showcasing their talents to win favour with the judges an win the top prize.

Lots of stands, craft tent, snack and ice cream vans, competitions and fun for all the family! Join us for a great day out.

KILMACOLM

St Colm’s Catholic Church The Very Rev William Canon McDade – Sunday morning family mass 10am.

Kilmacolm Old Kirk Church of Scotland (Charity no. SC009291).www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org. uk. Minister Rev Dr Peter McEnhill (01505 873174). Morning Worship - Sundays 11am, all welcome Sunday School & Crèche available.

St Columba Church of Scotland. (charity no.

SC007992) Minister Rev Douglas Cranston.

Wednesday Break 10.30am in large Hall.

Church Prayer meeting Thurs at 8.15pm.

Gospel Services in The Scout Hall, Kilmacolm - Sundays 4.30pm, Thurs 7.30pm.

St Fillan’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church Sundays 11.30am Rev Colum McGranaghan has now retired and we are in a vacancy however all the Services in both Churches are continuing their normal pattern.

LANGBANK

Langbank Parish Church - Rev Andrew McLean. Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Creche and young people’s group, the Welcomers. Tea and coffee after the service - all welcome. Langbank Church of Scotland is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC015085.

For entry forms, or more information please contact Catharine Anderson 07795174306 or email houstonshow@hotmail.co.uk Schedules for the Craft and Baking Section of Houston and Killellan Agricultural Society are available from, The Paper Shop, North Street, The Post Office and Strawberryfields Nursery. They can also be obtained from secretary Isabelle Stuart 01505 613479 or email issistuart@fsmail. net and committee members. The Annual Show will be held on Saturday 1st June in Houston Public park.

LOCHWINNOCH

Lochwinnoch Parish Church - Rev Mhairi Breingan. 11am Morning Service with Sunday School and Crèche.

Calder United Free Church (Church St Lochwinnoch) Sunday: 11am Morning worship with Sunday School and Crèche.

6.30pm Evening Fellowship group, 7.30pm ABC’s Teen group. Wed 6.30-7.30pm.

QUARRIERS

Mount Zion Church, Rev Andy Lunn Bsc. 10.30am in Bethesda, Junior Church and Bible Class. The Event for young people, making Church fun for everyone, every 3rd Sunday monthly at 6.30pm. Visit www. mountzionfellowship.org.uk

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houston, crosslee & brookfield Family Fun Day Annual Show Woodlands Nursery and Out of School Care are holding a Family Supper Dance Fun Day on 18th May, from 11am to 3pm, to which everyone in the local community is invited. We will have a BBQ, Bouncy Castle, Bottle Stall, Grand Raffle, Beat the Goalie and much, much more.

Tickets will be £10 for a family of four and includes something to eat and drink from the BBQ. Tickets will be on sale at the nursery shortly.

On Saturday 8th June in the River Inn, Crosslee, come along for a delicious buffet dinner, dancing and entertainment (the weekend following the dance) - everyone welcome for what is always a great night out. Raffle held on the night with some incredible prizes already secured including a membership for the new ON-X leisure facilities in Linwood and a treatment at Divah Salon in Houston. Contact Aly Young for tickets 07812637107 or email houstonshow@hotmail.co.uk

Houston Kirk Carnival day Saturday 11th May is Houston Kirk Carnival day!

Look out for all the usual attractions, and a few others besides!

It’s 12noon at the Kirk itself for The Fancy Dress Competition and the Fancy Dress Parade starts at 12.15pm, led by the 1st Houston Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade Pipe Band.

This year’s theme is 50 Years of Doctor Who! Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes, as always! We look forward to seeing many exotic creatures in Houston that day!

The crowning of the Carnival Queen will be at 12.45pm at the Church Halls, Main Street Houston and the Official Opening of the Carnival will follow at 1pm. There will be a host of attractive stalls and sideshows on offer on the day itself. Look out for the plant stall, the home baking, jewellery, soft toys, white elephants and many other attractions. Come ready to play the tombola, jump on the bouncy castle or try your luck on the sideshows. If you’re hungry or thirsty we will be trying to tempt you with burgers, hot dogs or the famous tea room with its wonderful home baking.

Make a date in your diary and come along to enjoy Houston’s most sociable day of the year!

The proceeds from this year’s carnival will go towards the Kirk Extension Fund.

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Over the past month there have been two road improvement projects completed in the village. The much needed bus stance at St Fillan’s school and the white lines at the junction of South Street and Main Street. The former will prevent the build up and disruption of traffic on Main Street while the latter may prevent parking of vehicles too close to this well used junction.

A further request to Renfrewshire’s Roads Department asking for safety improvements along a section of pavement from Crosslee Park to the school patrol crossing officer has been turned down saying ‘ they have no plans to install guard rails along this length’.

I am pleased to see that action has finally been taken to remove unauthorised commercial advertising on the Manse Field boundary fence that is being used as a ‘Community Noticeboard’ .

As mentioned in my article in October last year Commercial advertising requires planning permission and should not be attached to the fence without this permission while personal messages should be removed as quickly as possible and not left for excessive periods of time.

The proposed reduction of the McGill’s evening X6A service will not be implemented. The SPT will subsidise this route therefore there will be no change to the service and it will continue to run as at present. McGill’s Communication Manager has also confirmed and that there are no planned changes to the X6A Sunday service as part of their April network review, nor are there any changes in the pipeline.

The upgraded access from Brookfield through the playpark to the Cycle track has been completed with the installation of the new bollards and sign. £90,000 has been set aside in Renfrewshire Council’s Capital Plan 2013/2014 for the upgrade of lamp posts in Woodside Road, Brookfield.

My surgeries are held on the second Tuesday of each month in Brookfield Village Hall from 6pm to 6.30pm then in Houston Village Hall from 7pm to 7.45pm. I can be contacted by phone on 610018 or by email at cllr.allan. noon@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Houston Folk Club COLUM SANDS - Thursday 23rd May

Houston Folk Club meets at the Carrick Centre every Thursday.

In addition to our regular club nights we occasionally book exceptional artists and, after many years of trying, we’ve finally managed to get the brilliant Irish singer/songwriter Colum Sands to come to Houston on Thursday 23rd May. From County Down, Colum’s unique style of combining songs and stories has him a much sought after performer at home and abroad. Doors open 8pm. £10 (payable at door).

For additional information or to advance book please contact 07595461550 or email houstonfolkclub@gmail.com

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schools news Gryffe High Media Team hosts CfE Conference As part of the BBC News School Report day, the pupils of Gryffe High Media Team hosted a conference in the school theatre. Three of the pupils Samantha Dunlop, Sophie Cairns and Sophie Rotherforth had already had the privilege of meeting and interviewing the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Mr Michael Russell MSP at the Scottish Parliament. Michael Russell made his visitors most welcome and even added their photo to his ‘Blipfoto’ file which he updates daily. The Holyrood visit was filmed by the BBC. Pupils from S1 to S3 got the opportunity to ask their own questions about the new courses and have these answered by a panel of experts at the conference.

Guests included Mr Robert Naylor, Director of Education and Leisure, Councillor Jacqueline Henry, Convenor of the Education Policy Board both Renfrewshire Council.

Members of the National Parent Forum of Scotland as well as Gryffe High Parent Council were also on hand to answer pupil questions. Exam structure questions were expertly answered by Mr Robert Quinn from the SQA. Headteacher Mr Colin Johnson as well as teachers Mrs Karen Anderson and Miss Janice Naismith contributed to the panel with Head Girl Susie Little. The proceedings were chaired by Head Boy Iain Doig. Photos of the conference are courtesy of Renfrewshire Council Media Office.

The conference formed the subject of news items for BBC News School Report day itself. The Media team also got the fantastic opportunity of taking part in the big day at BBC Scotland in Pacific Quay. It was a absolutely packed day, with pupils creating their own radio bulletin as well as broadcasting live on Radio Scotland and Radio Foyle throughout the day. ……and the Gryffe High School Show Several pupils then got their energy levels up again to take part in the School Show which ran over two evenings. The format of the show was slightly different this Spring with the first night consisting of the several pieces performed by the Concert Band then New-sical 100 performed by Gryffe Musical Theatre. The second evening was a combination of Strings, the S1 Choir and the Concert Band followed by another superb act from Gryffe Musical Theatre. Both evenings were a most enjoyable display from dedicated and talented pupils.

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Langbank Playgroup We celebrated Red Nose Day in March at Langbank Playgroup with our children working on a project to paint pots and then planting up primulas to sell at our Social Morning. Many thanks to our buddies from Langbank Primary who came along to help and also to all our Playgroup families and friends from Under Three’s who came in for a morning of play and chat; a fantastic £48 was raised for the cause so well done! We then rounded off the term with a fun trip to Pandamonium in Erskine which was enjoyed by all.

This term we are meeting our friends from school again plus having a visit from Oral Health and a footballing session, as well as our normal mornings - phew!

Many thanks to all the families and villagers who supported our recent Ragbag appeal. All children from Langbank and the surrounding areas welcome at Playgroup on a Friday morning. Please contact our Chair, Jacqueline for further details on 01475 540728 and names now being taken for August.

St Columba Church Playgroup Aar Haar me hearties! Shiver me timbers was the cry at Playgroup one day. What a lot of fun we had with the water play with pretending to be a pirate and digging for treasure in the water. A great opportunity to try something different and all you need is a willing child and spare set of clothes! Playgroup has a fantastic set of resources to allow children to explore and experiment and we are looking forward to the summer term with some interesting visitors plus practising for Sports Day!

Thanks again to everyone who contributed to Rag Bag, helping us raise £113, it all goes towards supporting this fantastic group. Fresh from planning the Spring Fair, the committee are now arranging a summer social evening for the parents/carers, and also a nearly new baby sale at the end of August, look out for details of these events on our Facebook page - St Columba Playgroup & Toddlers Kilmacolm.

We are taking names now for August starts so why not contact us soon for a visit if you are interested in a place on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday morning or give our membership secretary Jenny a call on 07557 656968.

Our toddler group runs every Wednesday morning between 10am and 11.30am for children from birth to 3 years, and is a great chance for your little ones to try out different toys and make new friends. Please contact our toddler secretary Fiona on 07816 513693 for more information. We always look forward to welcoming new faces.

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St Columba’s School

School Pipe Band Play for First Minister St Columba’s School Pipe Band, which was the only pipe band travelling from Scotland to take part in the Tartan Week Parade, was asked to pipe the First Minister, Mr Alex Salmond, to the starting line of the Scotland Run. It was the tenth anniversary of the 10K race, which is sponsored by the Scottish Government. An estimated 10,000 runners are believed to have taken part.

The thirty-strong School band, which is led by Pipe Major Gordon Walker, then went on to play at the main parade on 6th Avenue and at a lunchtime concert in Bryant Park, which was hosted by the American Scottish Foundation.

Art Show Members of the Art E v e n i n g Class, led by Head of Design, Mrs Helen Mathie, will be exhibiting their work at the Bridge in Bridge of Weir, Monday 29th April – Friday 10th May. Work, including still life, portrait and landscape, will be on sale. Do come along. The Bridge opening hours and address can be found at thebridge-bridgeofweir.org

Golf Fundraising Event Join us at Kilmacolm Golf Club on Thursday 30th May 2013 for a Golf Competition to raise funds to provide financial support for children who would not otherwise be able to access a St Columba’s education and hardship support for School families.

There will be 18 teams of 4 with an entry fee of £360 per team. The format will be a Texas scramble, shot gun 12.00 noon start.

For full details contact Sara Bishop at sara@ eastcoastlets.co.uk

Gryffe High PTA Annual Raffle

This year your son/daughter will be bringing raffle tickets for this fantastic event home in their school bag just after the Easter holidays (so make sure you dig to the bottom of their bags).

The draw will take place in school on 13th June and once again there are many fabulous prizes on offer donated by local business folks. Prizes include……… signed Rangers & St Mirren tops / golf 4 balls @ Haggs Castle & Playsport East Kilbride / deluxe Scottish hamper / pamper package from Serendipity & Laura’s Nail Lounge / wine & dine package from The Corran Inn, Houston Make sure you don’t miss your opportunity to win while boosting school funds. Many thanks for your support.

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Langbank Primary School All classes studied a majot topic this term where they transformed their classroom, opened it to parents and gave wonderful performances at our Curriculum Afternoons. P1/2 studied the Jungle, P3 studied The Egyptians, P4/5 studied Space and P6/7 The Rainforest.

All pupils went out on a class trip to enhance their learning. Places

visited included Dynamic Earth, Blair Drummond Safari Park, Amazonia, The Burrell Collection and Kelvingrove museum. Great fun was had by all whilst gaining first hand experience of the various subjects.

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Creative Kidston!

We are very creative at Kidston Kids playgroup in Kilmacolm.

During our recent topic, Sunny Days and Rainbow Weather, we made colourful windsocks, noodle rainbows and Mr Sunshine plates.

We hope Mr Sunshine comes out to play soon, so we can get outside to plant our summer flowers!

Our sessions run every Monday, Wed and Friday mornings in the Kidston Hall. Playgroup, for pre-school children from 2yrs 6mths.

Stay n Play from 18mths with Parents/Carers accompanying their child. Little Lullabies, Monday morning for babies and toddlers.

Bridge of Weir Scouts Due to inclement weather there has been some disruption to the camping and activities schedule over the last few months however we are back on track and had a very successful camp at Everton near Inverkip. We welcomed our new ‘Scubs’ on their first camping trip with the Scouts, they had great fun testing out the new zip wire and the weekend was a great success. We recently had a sausage sizzle at The Glen which again thanks to the dry weather was lots of fun and the Scouts will continue with badge work and

If you live in Inverclyde or Renfrewshire and would like to join the fun, pop in and see us or visit our website. www. kidstonkids.co.uk Places 2013.

available

for August

preparation for our orienteering day and the next outdoor camp in May. Thanks to Ewan, Ann and all the young leaders for their continued help and support and welcome back to Steve.

Health and Wellbeing Day at St Benedict’s Health conscious S2 pupils at St Benedict’s celebrated World Health Day early on the 22nd March, and enjoyed a number of activities which promoted their social, physical, and emotional health.

Pupils started the day off with a delicious healthy breakfast of strawberries and other fruits, which fuelled them up for an exciting day of knowledge and activity. The school S6 Sports Leaders led the S2 girls group, who were involved in dance classes, whilst the boys enjoyed a demanding but invigorating Metafit workout. There was also a number of co-ordinated lessons focused on raising awareness of health in the context of Scotland, and the local smoking cessation officer raised awareness of the dangers of smoking through a poignant talk and pupils also enjoyed making “wee me” puppets which focused on raising selfesteem and confidence.

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Strawberry Field Nursery Since our last article we have had our Easter break but have been very busy since we returned.

The older children are covering a Woodland Topic and are making a woodland scene wall display, with a pond and a bear cave, they are making a collage of woodland animals to add to the display.

The children have been to the local wood to look for rabbits squirrels etc. and to the pond to find frog spawn.

They will also be doing a variety of activities using the story book ‘The Elves and The Shoemaker’ which will incorporate various literacy and numeracy skills.

The children in the Rainbow Building are doing a topic of Under the Sea and are making a collage for the wall with dolphins, sharks, and other underwater creatures.

We will be telling the children a variety of stories covering all these creatures and their underwater activities.

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Rotary for Young People In recent months, Gryffe Valley Rotary has been pursuing a number of projects to support and encourage young people in our local community.

The council’s modern apprentice programme was named as the joint-winner of the Apprentice Award at the s1jobs recruitment awards 2013.

Rotary’s Euroscola project enables students from all over Europe to visit Strasbourg and to experience the European Parliament. Participation is very competitive and Chantelle Christian from Gryffe High was firstly selected by Gryffe Valley and then was successful in getting one of the 26 places allocated to Scotland. Not only did Chantelle learn about the operation of the Parliament, she also had the opportunity to meet and work with students from 22 countries all across Europe.

All of the proceedings were conducted in French, involving discussion groups and presentations delivered in the Parliament chamber.

Scottish students, including Chantelle, impressed the organisers with their language skills, and the other students all went home with a better understanding of the finer points of a Cèilidh! .

The other winner was Renfrewshire-based Scottish Leather Group, which last year launched its apprenticeship academy in partnership with the council-run Invest in Renfrewshire programme, which provided financial support.

Chantelle came along to the club to talk about experiences on the trip – the photo shows her with vice president Mike Farley and young people Convenor John Douglas who introduced her.

Invest in Renfrewshire is a £4.5m programme designed to boost the local economy through offering employment and training opportunities to young people and providing financial support to businesses.

Young Carers are youngsters whose lives are significantly impacted by their role as carer to a parent or sibling. Gryffe Valley tries each year to organise a day out to give them a break from their normal routines. This year a number of groups were organised and visited Excape at Braehead where they indulged in some rather scary and adventurous activities (scary to us adults at least). Each visit was rounded off with a tuck-in at Pizza Hut and thanks are due to all parties who contributed to making it a visit to remember. The photo shows some gravity defying young carers “on the logs”.

Double celebration at job awards Two schemes run by Renfrewshire Council to give young people a helping hand into the world of work have been honoured at a prestigious national awards ceremony.

Both organisations were also named as jointwinners of the Chairman’s Award, which recognises the groups deemed most deserving over all the categories of the awards.

The s1 awards are intended to honour Scotland’s best employers, recruitment agencies and consultants.

In this years Rotary Young Writer competition, there were 21 local entries from St Columba’s, and Houston and Kilmacolm Primaries. The required topic was a letter to anyone on the subject of Peace, and with a high general standard the club’s panel of judges had a tough job selecting the best entries from each school, with book token prizes going to each. The two best entries overall – from Thomas Rainey of St Columba’s in the intermediate age category and from Lisa Stevenson of Kilmacolm Primary in the junior category - now go forward to the national finals.

Renfrewshire Council’s modern apprentice programme is supported by Skills Development Scotland and offers both craft and office-based apprenticeships.

The annual primary school quiz was again a great success with a keenly fought contest between teams from Bridge of Weir, Kilmacolm, Houston and St Fillans Primaries. In the end St Fillans just edged out Bridge of Weir in the final round and they now go forward to the District Finals. Thanks are due to Gibb Stuarts for providing goody bags and to the Royal British Legion club for their help and

All the council’s modern apprentices are guaranteed to be able to complete their apprenticeships with the council, which supports them through their college placement and relevant vocational qualification.

for the use of the hall for a modest donation. The photo shows the winning St Fillans team with club President Neil McAlister.

Scottish Leather Group is the UK’s largest producer of leather, and operates across five subsidiaries, three of which are based in Bridge of Weir, plus one in Paisley.

The firm’s apprenticeship academy was launched in 2012 in partnership with Invest in Renfrewshire, Scottish Enterprise and Reid Kerr College.

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With the Young Chef competition held at the end of last year and the Young Photographer competition still to come (in conjunction with the Gryffe Camera Club) Gryffe Valley Rotary is providing a wide range of opportunities and challenges for local youngsters.

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Kilmacolm Nursery Class What a wonderful, sunny holiday we had. We hope it will continue for the rest of this term as the nursery is planning lots of outdoor trips. Firstly groups will return to the library for songs and stories with Pamela and then on to the Hub for refreshments. We went shopping for items to grow, such as potatoes and leeks, and this took us into the village again. We will visit the Beacon to see behind a real theatre as we have set up a theatre in the nursery to sing, dance and act out stories that we know really well like “The Three Little Pigs” and “Snow White”. We will go to Quarrier’s Village to the playground. For these local trips we

DofE Bronze Award

depend on Port Glasgow Voluntary Transport and we would like to record our thanks to them for the fabulous service they provide which allows small groups the opportunity to explore the local area for a reasonable mileage charge. We intend to have a pre-school trip to Sea Life Centre, North Queensferry and an ante pre-school trip to Pandemonium, Erskine.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is running for the first time in St Benedict’s High School; this award allows the students to participate in their local community as well as learn new skills and increase their confidence. The group are also learning emergency first aid training as part of the course and we have witnessed the growth in confidence that the award has brought to them.

Outdoor play in the nursery play area has been enriched by the addition of a new play house thanks to some fundraising early in the school year by parents.

The students taking part in their bronze level award recently took part in a bag packing session at Asda Linwood to help raise funds to allow the award to run. The group worked really hard and when not hard at work were seen, and heard, chatting to the friendly staff at the checkout.

Here is an update on some of our chicks. Kerr Wright rehomed 4 of our chicks and as you can see, they are quickly growing into the real thing - hens and a huge cockerel. Eggs will follow and perhaps even the patter of tiny claws at some time in the future.

In their award, the team has had great support from staff members at the DofE and St Benedict’s as well as from their parents, assessors and the schools parent council. The award has been of great benefit to the students and will be to the school as they move into the senior phase and use the skills that they have gained in this award.

Too many girls, not enough help!

Girl guiding is the largest volunteer-led charity for girls and young women across the United Kingdom. Without the dedication of trained volunteer Adult Leaders, it would not be able to provide great opportunities and new experiences to its young members. In Kilmacolm we are suffering under the problems of a long waiting list of girls waiting to join and insufficient leaders and helpers. If you are able to give up your time to help we might be able to start towards reducing our waiting lists. Brownie Leader Freda Robertson says “Quite often I’m not sure who

gets more fun out of it, myself or the girls!”

Visit the website http://www.girlguiding.org. uk/get_involved/volunteer.aspx Kilmacolm Local Association of Guiding (KLAG) are the committee that runs the brownie/guide hut for the rainbows, brownies and guides and they would like to thank everyone who supported the March Daffodil Coffee Morning which raised just over £700.

This committee is also looking for some new blood to help with maintenance and fundraising for upkeep of the hut. In addition the hut is a great venue for children’s parties not being too large and has slots for longterm weekly lets and party bookings available at £12 per hour. Please call 872797.

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Woodlands Nursery and Out of School Care In our Baby Room we have been making the most of the dry weather with the babies being able to enjoy lots more outdoor play this month. Our babies love to play on our decked area which looks directly into the surrounding woods and they also particularly enjoy going for a wee toddle around the building, waving to the bigger children as they pass the Rising Fives.

Some of our older children in the Tweenie Room recently enjoyed a trip to the transport museum as a finale to our Transport theme. They had a great day out and loved looking at all the fire engines and the “big pirate ship”. We took lots of photographs, which are now displayed proudly on our walls, helping the children to recall their favourite parts of their outing.

It has been a busy time in Rising Fives with our 3-4 year olds performing in their very own Daffodil Tea. The afternoon started off with refreshments for parents and a raffle to win beautiful flowers. The children then came on stage and performed a variety of Easter/ Spring songs, whilst wearing their own Easter Bonnets which they had created at home with their parents. Thanks to all parents and grandparents for all the wonderful creations. The boys and girls all held a bunch of daffodils and at the end were able to present them to their mummies. Some of the parents even joined in some of the more well known songs, such as “chick, chick, chick, chicken”. It was a wonderful afternoon celebrating spring.

Our older children did not miss out on the fun as they got to create Easter Bonnets too. All the children took part in the Easter Bonnet Parade and were awarded a fantastic certificate.

As we are now approaching our 21st year we have taken time to reflect on how our nursery has grown and developed into such a busy and popular establishment within the community. We are so proud to now be situated in our purpose-built nursery in which children have even more wonderful opportunities to develop and learn.

At Woodlands, we pride ourselves on having a long standing team of staff to which we add continually.

We are a close ‘family’ ourselves and are always sad when any member leaves but more so as this year we will unfortunately be losing two of our longest standing members this year. Jackie Collins is leaving to emigrate to Australia with her family and as Jackie has been with us for 15 years we will miss her very much. And if that wasn’t sad enough we are also losing Betty Armour, who has been with us for 13 years. Betty is retiring in the summer to look after her beautiful grand-daughter Kiya.

We will miss them both so much as they are a big part of Woodlands and have contributed greatly over the years. We wish them both happiness in their new adventures and are looking forward to email updates from Down Under to hear how Jackie and her family are getting on.

Kilmacolm Primary School Our P7 class enjoyed a very exciting week on their residential trip to Winmarleigh Hall near Preston.

Although we experienced some of the coldest weather of the year it didn’t stop the boys and girls having a great time on a variety of outdoor activities.

Generation science visited our school to hold workshops entitled,’ The wonderful World of Water’ and ‘Day or Night’ with all pupils which allowed them to learn in a fun and interactive manner.

P6 & 7 attended ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ workshops where they learned about anti-sectarianism and antiracism.

Our cluster schools held a Health & Wellbeing Showcase to involve parents in their learning on a variety of Health & Wellbeing areas. We thank Newark Primary, Port Glasgow High School and all parents who managed to come along to support this event.

P1 held a Lighthouse Keepers Lunch in their class towards the end of last term and invited parents and friends along to enjoy. The event was developed through the class topic based on the novel of the same name. The boys and girls made sandwiches, served the food, took orders and generally entertained their guests at the event which was hailed as a fantastic success – well done P1.

14 of our pupils participated in the Inverclyde Burns Federation Competition recently and had many successes. Some of our pupils won their particular classes and now go on to the national finals in Dumfries. Winners include: Anna McGowan who won the P4/5 Recitation and who also was names as young Burnsian of the Year, Gregor Hewitt who won the P4/5 instrumental class, Ruari Buchan who was named as Junior Bagpiper, Molly rose who won the P4/5 Singing and Ellie Houston who won P6/7 singing and was overall winner in the singing competition.

We are so proud of all of our competitors who represented our school so confidently.

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St Fillans Primary

Bridge of Weir Primary

Pupils were delighted to see a break in the weather, particularly our Primary 6 pupils who are carrying out their cycling proficiency training this term. The sun shone for them as they went outdoors with Mrs Cleary and their group of adult helpers. This year they will be carrying out more advanced training as part of the Bikeability programme. They will eventually carry out some of their training on the roads round the school and we thank our family volunteers for making this possible.

The horizontal rain may have lashed down almost continuously during our first week back to school after the Easter holidays, but a warm, tropical breeze could ‘almost’ be felt wafting around our gymnasium when P5/4 did a Caribbean-themed assembly for us. Having studied the Caribbean as their topic, we were treated to a bright and colourful extravaganza which included drumming, singing, dancing and stories.

In addition, B e t h Mackinnon of P7 gave us a fascinating presentation on her recent trip to Brazil where she visited an orphanage a n d distributed gifts. Having been involved in fundraising for the orphanage, it was illuminating for Beth to witness for herself what life is like there and the difference that fundraising projects can make - we’re very proud that so many of our pupils, like Beth, develop not just an interest in the world, but a desire to help make it a better place.

Our Nursery Ambassadors have begun to visit some of the local nurseries and met several of the children who will be coming to St. Fillan’s in August. They chatted to them about school life, showed them their uniform and took notes about their favourite things they liked doing at nursery. Great fun was had by all and our Nursery Ambassadors will be out and about again later in the term visiting the remaining nursery children.

Congratulations to go Millie, Shaun, Thomas and John who were the school team who represented St Fillan’s in the recent Rotary Club Quiz. They took first place in the local heats and look forward to representing our local area in the national heats later this term.

Many of our pupils in Primary 4 and Primary 7 are in the final stages of preparation for receiving the Sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation. Our thoughts will be with them at this special time.

We wish to share some photos with you taken by our new camera. This was purchased for the Media Team by the Parent Council and many photos have been taken with it already. As it is a more advance camera, Mr McSherry from Gryffe Camera Club came in to give a few lessons to the members of the Media Team. Several of our photos are on our Pupil Blog which can be accessed via the main school website.

Finally well done to our Display Committee who organised our end of term Easter Art Competition. Our worthy winners were delighted to receive edible prizes.

Our parents were thoroughly entertained recently with our Primary 7 School Show. They staged a great performance of Treasure Island and some photos taken by Niamh from the Media Team are on the school blog.

This term we look forward to our Annual School Talent Show and our Pupil Council are starting to make preparations for this year’s event - an event the whole school looks forward to every year!

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Closer to home, the School Travel Plan committee have been working hard all year, gathering information from parents and pupils, running competitions and encouraging pupils to walk or cycle to school, if they are able. They ran a competition for P1-3 to design the front cover of our new School Travel Plan which was won by Anna Dalziel in P2a and the competition for P4-7 was to design a poster to encourage walking to school, and this was won by Emily Irving in P7b who designed a bright, eye-catching poster with the slogan “Keep Calm and Walk to School”. Walk to School Week is 13th - 17th May which we always have a wonderful response to and this term we’re also hoping to encourage people who travel by car to consider car-sharing, in the hope of cutting down on congestion and parking issues around the school, particularly at 3pm.

We continue to encourage all of our pupils to participate in sporting activities and the smiles on their faces convey how much 16 of our Primary 6 pupils thoroughly enjoyed taking part in Strathgryffe Tennis Club’s recent inter-school tournament. Our Sports Connections event takes place 20th-23rd May, during which time the whole school will be jumping, hopping and sprinting whilst simultaneously measuring, recording and calculating as pupils look at links between numeracy and sport. They’ll be finding out how they can apply their mathematical skills and knowledge in meaningful ways. We’re all looking forward to it!

Finally, a reminder to parents to pay regular visits to our recently updated website. It’s always a good source of information for everything from school lunch menus to school holidays and our monthly newsletters are also available online. We have a number of holidays coming up in May, and would encourage parents to view April’s newsletter to ensure that they have those dates in their diary.

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sports & clubs news

1st Houston & Crosslee Scout Group The various sections within the group have continued to be active throughout the Easter holidays.

The scouts have used some of their spare time over the holiday to help parents, friends and neighbours with various chores including washing the car, gardening, washing the dishes and most importantly tidying their rooms!!

The boys raised over £150 pounds towards group funds so all they need to do now is continue their efforts in future without being paid!

Unfortunately the weather was not kind for the re-arranged scout midnight hike and the boys were again left disappointed when it was cancelled at short notice due to 60 mph winds and driving snow. Hopefully the hike can be rearranged over the spring or summer.

The cubs had a successful visit to Johnstone Fire station recently and also visited St Fillans Church as part of their “My Faith” badgework.

The annual Scout car wash is scheduled to take place on Sunday 19th May from 12 to 2 pm at the Scout Hall in South Street. Again tea, coffee, bacon butties and home made pancakes will be on offer while you wait. Hopefully the weather will be as sunny as last year.

The group are still actively looking for a new beaver leader to take this section from the new term starting in August. It may be the case that the Beaver section which takes children of 6 and 7 years will struggle to continue unless the group find a new leader.

Any parents or adults over 18 years old who could offer their time for an hour per week should contact the Scout Leader or the current beaver leader. Although currently scheduled for a Monday night from 6.15pm to 7.15pm, the day of the week could change to suit.

Although potential leader require disclosure, they do not require previous experience as a leader.

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Cardio Tennis proves to be a smash hit!

t: 01505 613340

Junior Coaching

Kilmacolm Tennis Club have launched a new adult tennis session which is proving to be a smash hit!

Cardio tennis is a fun, sociable group fitness class set on a tennis court, supported by motivating music you’ll get to hit lots of tennis balls during your session whilst having a great cardio workout!

The Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club recently hosted a Juniors Coaching Programme during the Easter school break, attracting around twenty young aspiring golfers from a number of age groups. The Course has great facilities for coaching and practicing the short and long game of golf and combines serious coaching techniques with lots of fun activities.

Sessions run weekly at the club on a Thursday night at 8pm and are open to members and non members with no cost for the first session. In fact all the equipment is provided therefore all you need is a bit of enthusiasm, sports clothing and a pair of trainers.

Head coach Giulio Spella who is a qualified cardio tennis instructor is hoping it will bring a new dynamic to tennis in the area. Giulio said of the sessions “Cardio tennis is a dynamic and energetic way of getting into tennis for the first time, adding a new dimension to your current game and keeping fit at the same time. For many people, the first steps into a sports club where they don’t know anyone can be intimidating. At Kilmacolm Tennis Club we work hard to welcome everyone into the club and to take part in the sport.

There is no doubt that the cardio tennis sessions have proved to be a great hit so far.”

Cardio tennis sessions can burn over 600 calories a session and Giulio even provides pedometers to track how each individual is getting along and adds some light hearted competition to the session.

Giulio added “The social aspect along with fitness side to the class helps to promote a positive motivated atmosphere at the sessions. Along with the music and investment in pedometers, balls and training equipment a lot of the focus is not how good you are at tennis but instead how much fun you can have on a court whilst developing your game and improving your fitness. Most weeks I have to work very hard just to keep up with the class, as they always like to beat me by taking more steps on the pedometers!”

It is not just new players who take part in cardio tennis, existing club members are just as keen which means that attending a tennis club for the first time is most definitely a positive experience at Kilmacolm Tennis Club.

It is not just cardio tennis which is on offer for adults, Giulio also organises adult group lessons on a Thursday evening at 7pm, a four week block covering all you need to develop your skills and play better tennis. The 4 weeks target a different theme each time, from rallying at the back of the court, attacking and moving into the net, serving and finally matchplay, with technical help along the way to improve your shots the group lessons are a fantastic way of improving your skill levels.

For those interested in more competitive tennis, the club has 6 senior teams, 3 mens and 3 ladies teams in the west of Scotland leagues and is always looking for new members to join and represent the club as well as players breaking into the teams through the coaching sessions with the help from the coach.

Giulio summed up the adult programme by commenting “I believe that Kilmacolm Tennis Club has something to offer everyone from cardio tennis, group lessons, competitive teams, in addition to the social tennis events throughout the year, there is so much on offer. For those mums and dads looking to play, there is also a comprehensive junior programme which is proving to be extremely popular. There are various membership offers to suit everyone offering year round tennis on artificial grass, floodlit courts with a modern clubhouse.”

The Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club Board of Directors actively encourage the Junior Section at the Club and have themselves invested , through partnership with PGA Scotland, in a number of registered PGA Golf Level1 accredited coaches to help plan and conduct these Junior Coaching programmes. Further Junior Coaching sessions at the course are being planned throughout the year to attract interest in the great game and who knows - the next Rory McIlroy may indeed come from the Renfrewshire area!

Home Base Established and German Team Visit It’s been a very busy Winter and early Spring for Quarriers United FC. The club have, with the support of the Quarriers Charity been able to develop changing rooms in the Sommerville Weir Hall. The final piece of the jigsaw puzzle to establishing a permanent home for this very successful local club was to have a storage facility on the playing fields at Quarriers, to store goals and pitch maintenance equipment.

Planning permission for the storage container was granted in January 2013 with conditions. One of the planning conditions was that some native screening plants needed to be planted. To assist us to do this QUFC approached Mrs Angela Smith, who is the Development Officer for Scotland for the Royal Horticultural Society. The RHS designated the planting as a Community Project and Angela came along to assist with the planting and to give horticultural tips to local people.

The club were also very pleased and honoured to host an Under 16’s team from ASV Miesbach near Munich, Germany. Quarriers had visited Miesbach in May 2011 to play football and to visit another European city and this was their return visit. Stewart Cumming QUFC Chairman said; “It was great for our children to go out to Germany and fantastic that Miesbach wanted to come back to see Scotland” The club is planning to keep the relationship going with a view to other Quarriers teams making the trip to play football and meet new friends. Bernd Maffei the Miesbach President said; “Everybody enjoyed the short trip to Schottland, thank you for your support and help to all the really nice people we met and well hope we will meet again soon”.

Quarriers United FC Secretary Alistair Bomphray 07776 346861.

For more information on any of the activities offered at Kilmacolm Tennis Club or to get involved in a session contact Giulio Spella, head coach on 07931751468 email giulio.spella@ googlemail.com or visit the club website www.kilmacolmtennis.co.uk

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Karting Blog

by Tom Thickpenny

At last my 2013 race season has started! Having just taken delivery of my newly painted helmet, I headed down to test and race the 2013 Birel KGP kart at a Club meet at PF International Circuit near Grantham. Whilst tyres and engines are controlled in KGP any make of chassis can be used. I am really pleased to report the 2013 Birel KGP chassis performed really well. We were on the pace from the start and the kart was nicely balanced and handled well – it looks like our hard work last year has paid off! Unfortunately I retired from the Final with a snapped chain when I was part of the pack battling for 2nd, however I still came home happy with our overall performance. The photo shows me with Mike Simpson who I was really lucky to have mechanic for me. Mike is a manager and works driver for Ginetta racing cars whose Junior Championship Series I am hoping to contest next year. The Ginetta Championship offers huge exposure for drivers and sponsors alike as, supporting the British Touring Car Championship, it is covered by ITV. As you know, myself and two friends – Botond Kaholics and Lewis Marr – represented our school, St Columba’s, in the British Schools Karting Championship. We won our Heat at Cambuslang outdoor karting which entered us in the Regional Finals at Knockhill. Unfortunately we did not make the top 3, which was necessary to win through to the UK Final, but I had the satisfaction of getting the fastest lap by 1s!

I now have 6 weeks of revision and public exams – tho’ I hope to get a few test days in at Larkhall ?.

As my first National race is in June I won’t have any results to report in my next column… but I hope to have some locally interesting sponsorship news!!

Yours in sport, Tom tomkarting@f2s.com

www.tom-karting.com

Provost Anne Hall Supports Strathgryffe Schools Tennis Tournament The Primary 6 pupils of Bridge of Weir, Houston & St Fillan’s Primary Schools were excited to be given the opportunity to demonstrate their tennis talents in front of Councillor Anne Hall at the annual InterSchools Doubles Tournament which took place on Thursday 21st March on the indoor courts at Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash Club.

T h e Strathgryffe coaching team had previously delivered 4 weeks of coaching to all Primary 6 pupils at all three local schools. Eight boys and eight girls were then selected to represent each school at the competition.

Houston Primary scored the highest points for most matches won and was the eventual winner.

Susan Weanie, Tennis Development Manager commented, ‘This is our 11th year of holding the event. We work in partnership with Renfrewshire Council with the support of our local Sports Co-ordinators. We were all delighted when we received word that Councillor Anne Hall would be available to attend the tournament and award the players with their certificates and medals at the prize giving.’

For more information on coaching or membership at Strathgryffe, please contact reception on 01505 615100 or email info@ strathgryffe.net

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Castle Semple Rowing Club (CSRC) - Regatta Its nearly time for the annual Castle Semple Rowing Club (CSRC) regatta, this year being held on Saturday 1st of June. All are welcome to come and join us and enjoy the largest one day regatta in Scotland. This event brings rowing clubs to the banks of Castle Semple Loch from all over Scotland and the North of England, regularly attracting over 150-200 people to the village.

For those new to the locality you might be interested to know that Castle Semple Rowing Club has been holding regattas on Castle Semple Loch since 1971 and it is considered to be one of the best and most friendly regattas of the Scottish Rowing Calendar. We hope to hold about 100 races between 9am and 6pm this year and everyone is welcomed onto the banks of the loch to shout and cheer the crews over the finish line. CSRC are the team in red and white with a castle emblem on the blades but don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the sport as the regatta programme contains details of the various clubs and events you’ll see.

If the sport isn’t something that attracts you then we should also add that we will be selling a fantastic range of homemade cakes, bacon rolls, chilli, soup, sandwiches and plenty of tea and coffee in the club’s coffee room as well. We look forward to seeing you there.

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QT Movers Class

Tennis Club now open for play!

After a weekend workparty Langbank Tennis Court has been raked, swept and rolled into a surface fit for tennis again. The court is open to members during daylight hours, 7 days a week, and is usually playable through to October.

Langbank Tennis club has been run by the same dedicated committee for some 20 years or more. These individuals have maintained the court, repaired the fences, gathered the fees, organised coaching, and even played a bit of tennis along the way.

They have decided to hang up their rakes this year (but hopefully not their rackets) and a new committee is in place. We thank them for all their efforts, and look to the villagers of Langbank to support the Club now and ensure its continued existence.

Annual memberships are available for juniors for only £10, adults £25, or families £50.

Junior lessons will begin on Wednesday 24th April, with our fully qualified and experienced coach Chris. Adult lessons may also be available this year, subject to demand.

Memberships and further information available from Mary Jo , contact maryjo. coffield@btinternet.com or 01475 540071.

Players Wanted Bishopton Youth Football club are looking players for their team - children born in 2004 . If you are interested please contact David on 07912 077373.

Castle Semple Sailing Club Sunday Spring Series

On the first Sunday, the series started quietly probably due to Easter, with only a few boats taking part.

By the following weekend even fewer appeared but three boats were away at a GP event at Annandale (suffering with a lack of wind). Some people did venture out - Oliver was again entertaining us, or rather his granddaughter was obviously giving Oliver a lesson on how to sail. For most of the first race young Ross McG and his friend led the way in his Enterprise before being caught by Crawford in another Enterprise. By the start of the second race the wind had got up nicely, with three boats retiring, this only left the Enterprise to win the race! With the racing over, Stan in his Omega was once again back on the water with John S on board and was seen to be planning - obviously he couldn’t catch Crawford in the Enterprise now “ye having” planning back and forth merrily across the water.

However something went wrong and Stan and John were swimming. A nimble Stan was seen to scramble over the boat on to the centre board but he wasn’t quick enough when the boat came up and over it went again. By this time it was Enterprise 1 to the rescue. Duncan and Dee sped out in the power boat.

John made his escape into the power boat and Stan was left with dented pride, bent burgee and of course the inevitable loch coloured sails.

By the third Sunday the wind was of such a force (F8-F9) that no one ventured out in their boats and all thoughts of racing were abandoned. Around 20 hopeful members had gathered hoping to watch some action. Eventually several went for a blustery walk in Parkhill Woods and later the sailing secretary, always with safety on the water in mind, organised some very useful refresher training in the power boat.

See website for further details: www.castlesemplesc.co.uk

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Ludovic Roy, QT lifestyle coach and ex professional football player is offering a new class in Kilbarchan Old Library, for the independent and retired adults. QT Movers Class will be on every Tuesday at 11am starting 7th May 2013. Ludo will hold QT Movers Class to work on mobility and basic functional movements. Restricted to a maximum of 15 people only, the 1 hour class is designed to get you moving. This can help you build strength, endurance and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy life to the full.

Ludo will work with you around basic goals to achieve, whether they’ll be working around your garden comfortably and pain free, going for long walks confidently to enjoy the beauty of Scotland and beyond or being able to take part in local and national sporting events.

Ludo will also be able to advice on healthy eating and he’s supported by a chartered physiotherapist, should you wish to speak to someone about your aches and pains.

To avoid disappointment and secure your place in QT Movers Class please contact us on 01505 705767 or at info@qtconcierge.co.uk

Linwood AFC Reunion Did you play for Chrysler Linwood Amateur Football Club (1966 - 1983)? Free Chess Lesson A reunion has been arranged for Friday 10th May in “Gabriel’s”, Gauze Street, Paisley Chess Club Paisley.

Please contact Ian Hunter on 01505 612570 iannimrod@talktalk.net or Raymond Bruce on 01505 346446 raymondbruce@hotmail.co.uk A night of nostalgia, bring back some memories, meet some ‘old’ faces and, who knows, maybe get that drink they always promised they would buy you!

Longest Day 72 Hole Challenge “Three Men and a Bobby” playing The 72 Hole Endurance Challenge in ONE DAY!!!

Evening disco, auction & raffle on Saturday 29th June at 7.30pm tile late in the club house at Kilmacolm. £7.50 per ticket including snack!

Please come along and support the guys representing KGC and a very worthwhile cause at the same time!

Donations for the evening auction and raffle would be welcome whether they be golf orientated or otherwise!

Cheers “The Bobster” Call Bobby on 07921 167554 or email b-rough@hotmail. co.uk to reserve your tickets!

Free Chess Lesson Paisley Chess Club are currently offering a free introductory chess lesson for anyone new to the game.

To qualify just bring this page of the Gryffe Advertizer with you to any Paisley Chess Club meeting.

Like the game itself, Paisley Chess Club has a long and proud history and were in fact British Champions in 1994. After a few quiet years they are having a resurgence with membership more than doubling in the last three years. Paisley Chess Club members are a friendly down to earth bunch with just the occasional harmless eccentric to keep the place interesting.

Paisley is one of the few clubs in Scotland which opens three times a week, Monday and Wednesday evenings 7.15pm - 10pm as well as Thursday afternoons 1.30pm - 4pm.

Membership costs compare favourably with other clubs, they have reduced rates for juniors and recently introduced a family membership.

Newcomers to the club are encouraged to attend four times at no cost before committing to membership. Chess players from other clubs are welcome to visit either for a bit of extra practice or just a chat. Paisley Chess Club have recently started a junior section for the under sixteen’s which meet on a Monday 6pm – 7.15pm and is run by William Reid and his daughter Caitlin. New players of all ages and abilities are always welcome.

The club’s address is The Ogilvie Club, 18 Broomlands Street, Paisley. www.paisleychessclub.org.uk paisleychessclub.org.uk/

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It’s never too late to shape up!

If you need to shape up fast for a special occasion, going on holiday or just want to try something different, why not come along and join the CALLANETICS classes at Brookfield Village Hall?

Even a few Callanetics classes with Gwyneth Bell can make a difference you will see. Clients are regularly surprised at how quickly they get visible results from the small Callanetics movements.

Originally developed for the frail and injured body, they also help slimmers because of the way they work muscles very deeply. “If you’re dieting, every pound you lose looks like two,” says Gwyneth. One client told her: “My husband noticed a difference in my hips, waist and inner thighs after just TWO classes.” Another said: “Callanetics isn’t just another exercise class, it’s a way of life.”

Gwyneth’s classes are informal, welcoming and fun! It’s not a fashion show, she stresses. All you need is comfortable loose clothing and at times non slip shoes when Fitball exercises are incorporated to enhance particular aspects of Callanetics.

Classes are small enough for one-to-one attention within the whole class situation, so your session can be tailored to your individual needs. They are for people of all ages and you work safely at your own pace so there’s no having to keep up with the rest of the class.

Spaces are available in most regular classes. Call Gwyneth Bell, Fully qualified Callanetics Teacher and Fitball Instructor on 07850 382238.

Class times - Monday evening: 7.15pm. Wednesday evening: 5.15pm, 6.15pm + 7.30pm. Thursday + Friday mornings: 9.15am + 10.30am

Have you got the bottle?

Join Team Visibility at the Glasgow Women’s 10km on 12th May 2013.

Run, jog or walk, get fit and feel great knowing that you are helping blind and partially sighted children and adults living in the west of Scotland.

Pledge to raise £10 or more and you will get our exclusive running vest. Raise over £55 and you will get a funky, collapsible water bottle. Call 0141 332 4632 or email susan.crombie@ visibility.org.uk for more info.

Visibility opens up a no-limits world for people with sight loss www.visibility.org.uk Scottish Charity No. SC 009738

Renshaw Bowling Association In 1910 Henry Mechan from Scotstoun had 4 gold medals struck for the players in the highest up rink in the Renshaw Cup competition. This only lasted until the beginning of World War I in 1914. The first medals were won

by Walter Houston, Matthew Blair sen, William Gibson and George Gibson from Old Kilbarchan Bowling Club. Gold medals were won by James Orr, Thomas Gray, G Buchanan and W Chalmers from Inkerman Bowling Club.

The following were the highest up rink from Inverkip: Peter Gray, James McLean, William Hutchison and James McCumiskey. The Lilybank rink composed of Hugh Jamieson, Arthur McDonald, Allan Stewart sen, and John Richardson won the 1913 highest up rink. And finally the Bridge of Weir rink of William Weir, John Pinkerton, Robert R Telfer and John Findlay won the last of the medals. If anyone knows the relatives of these players, and have one of the medals could you please contact me, Philip Brown, on 01505 323251 or email: pmbro@sky.com as it would be nice to have a picture for the history.

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gardens & outdoors

Kilmacolm Masonic Plant Sale Fri 10th (6pm – 9pm), Sat 11th (9am - 4pm), Sun 12th (10am - 4pm) Fri 17th (6pm – 9pm), Sat 18th (9am - 4pm), Sun 19th (10am - 4pm) A wide variety of bedding plants at reasonable prices. Tubs & Planters filled for you and advice on suitable plants for your needs. At the Masonic Hall, Glebe Road, Kilmacolm. (Lodge Sir Michael No 989)

CMRP Round-up

Seasonal Staff Sign up for Summer We have new Seasonal Rangers as well as some familiar Visitor Centre Assistants, Outdoor Instructors and a Beach Attendant joining us for the summer season.

Raptors Return to Muirshiel!

The hen harrier project returns to Muirshiel Country Park this summer. There will be live footage in the Visitor Centre provided a suitable nest is found; otherwise, we will have a selection of highlights from previous years. Use our self-guided walk leaflet and look for the birds performing their unique sky dancing display - hopefully nesting will follow!

Scottish District Sailing Championships The weekend of 11th & 12th May will again see Castle Semple Loch as the venue for the IOM (International One Metre) Model Yacht Racing. The races provide an excellent spectator sport and the Park looks forward to seeing the yachts in highly competitive heats. If you fancy trying out sailing (on a larger scale!) remember courses run throughout the summer and junior multi activity weeks give youngsters a taste of adventure!

Scotland’s Nature Festival Sat 18th – Sun 26th May Celebrate the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 at Clyde Muirshiel with events celebrating the best of the Regional Park’s wildlife. Spot kingfishers and otters on the Dawn Safari, chase butterflies at Muirshiel or get that perfect shot for the Photographic Competition with a Photo Walk at Greenock Cut Centre. Look online or in the new what’s on guide for details.

Photographic Competition 2013 Launched on 1st March, the theme for this year is ‘Year of Natural Scotland 2013 at Clyde Muirshiel’. There are 5 categories to choose from, with prizes in each category and a top prize of £200. Plus, this year under 16’s can enter our Junior Competition to win an outdoor activity session.

New Volunteer Programmes at CMRP If you are looking for a great way to get out and get active, the Regional Park can help. We have a Thursday programme underway at Castle Semple and a Saturday programme at Greenock Cut Centre. For those only available in the evenings, with the summer approaching we can now offer a Wednesday evening volunteer programme based at Castle Semple. Look on the Park’s volunteer page for the April – June programmes.

Keen Cyclist? Read on!

Paisley Garden Club The next meeting will be held on 29th May at 7.30pm in the Salvation Halls Mill Street, Paisley. This months meeting will include a Plant Sale.

We’re looking for some interested parties and individuals to get in touch and help us improve, create or develop some bike routes. Could you volunteer an hour or so to give us your thoughts or maybe even contribute to a discussion on the topic? We need your expertise! Register your interest or simply give us a few lines with where you like to cycle in the Park routes@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. As this is submitted an evening meeting is planned for Tuesday 14th May at Castle Semple Visitor Centre, look on line for details or email us.

Pound & Pace Charity Walk This annual walk takes place on Wednesday 5th June this year.

Members of the public are eagerly encouraged to come along and walk the Greenock Cut’s 7.5 miles, with a Park Ranger, for a donation of £1. Registration is at 10:15 at the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, for an 11 o’clock start. Don’t forget to buy a raffle ticket on the day to win various prizes!

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More Colour In Kilmacolm Bluebell Walk Thanks to those who responded so positively to the idea of enhancing the appearance of Kilmacolm by adding colour and floral interest with tubs and planters. An open meeting will be held in Kilmacolm New Community Centre on Monday 13th May at 7.30pm at which it is hoped to establish the group formally, a necessary preliminary to applying for funds. An invitation is extended to anyone who would like to be involved to come along to that meeting. If the date doesn’t suit but you are interested, you can contact Peter at pmckerrell@hotmail.co.uk or 01505 872448.

Highwood, Kilmacolm, Sun 12th May 10am - 4pm This year all money raised will be going directly to the work of registered Scottish charity, Orkidstudio. So come and enjoy a walk in 60 acres of beautiful ancient woodland bluebells.

Refreshments available and dogs are more than welcome, but please keep them on a leash. ww.ordistudio.co.uk

Open Garden - Carruth, Torr Road, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3SG Come along and enjoy the bluebells, rhododendrons, woodlands and young arboretum, not to mention our excellent homemade teas, at small extra cost, on 26th May, 2-5pm at the opening of Carruth, Torr Road, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3SG in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care and other Scotland’s Gardens’ charities. Entry £3.50., children under 16 free. Thanks to Mr and Mrs Charles Maclean. For more details see www.scotlandsgardens.org

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Coffee Morning & Spring Outing Kilmacolm Horticultural Society is holding their Annual Coffee Morning on Saturday 27th April 10am-12noon in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm.

In addition to the main event - the Plant Stall - there will be Baking, Books, and Tombola. Come and enjoy delicious homebaking served with your coffee, meet up with old friends, and new ones, or bring your family. Tickets £3 from committee, or pay at the door.

The Spring Outing is arranged for Wednesday 15th May. The day’s visits include Ardardan Nurseries and Farm Shop, followed by a picturesque tour along Loch Lomond, Rest and Be Thankful, Loch Goil and Loch Long to the Benmore Botanic Gardens near Dunoon. Rhoddies, Camellias, Magnolias will be in full bloom, the Fernery is rebuilt, the gardens and views should be wonderful. Later in the afternoon we cross back using the Ferry, to our hotel for High Tea (also included).

There are just a few seats left, cost is £22 and you would be made most welcome if you are interested in joining the Spring Outing. The coach leaves The Cross, Kilmacolm at 10am returning home approx 7.30pm. Please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393 for further details.

The Summer Outing on Wednesday 12th June to Blairquhan Castle, Maybole, and the Burns Museum at Alloway is full.

We hope you enjoy a summer of sunshine and good weather, with flowers and vegetables worthy of entry into the Flower Show on Saturday 7th September.

Lawn Care for May Remove worm casts before mowing. Reduce the height of the mower blades - mowing will increase in frequency as the grass will be growing vigourously now due to the warmer weather and prior application of fertiliser.

Keep edges trimmed using a strimmer or lawn edging shears.

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MAY 2013

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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The Bridge of Weir Allotments and Gardens Society The Bridge of Weir Allotments and Gardens Society has received a cheque from the BAA Flightpath Fund to help finance the creation of the Bridge Community Garden. MSP Derek Mackay and Bridge chairman Paul Birch wished members of the Society well with the project.

The garden will be used to grow edible crops with the aim of encouraging more people to try food growing. It is also intended that the garden will appeal to the senses and should be an attractive addition to the village and the Bridge Community Centre. Work on the garden will be taking place over the next few months. We would be delighted if you would like to join in. Our contact details are on the Bridge of Weir Community Council website.

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society On 11th April the Society were very pleased to welcome once again Louise Bustard, Senior Curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Louise explored the world of vegetables and took us on a world trip explaining the origins and uses of all kinds of vegetables, where they came from, how they are used and why they are popular in certain cultures, nothing much happened by accident. Her talk was peppered (excuse the pun!) by lots of amusing anecdotes and stories regarding the health benefits and perhaps some of their not so healthy properties.

Dr Alison Moss will be visiting us on 9th May for a general talk titled ‘Pruning and Garden Care’. This should offer really practical help to any of us slightly unsure of when and how to prune. Some shrubs need to be pruned directly after flowering e.g., philadelphus and forsythia, some at this time of year e.g., hydrangea paniculata. Is your clematis Group 1, 2 or 3? There are many different varieties within each group and all pruned differently and at varying times of the year. Lack of flowers may be simply down to incorrect pruning. Come along to the British Legion on Thursday 9th May at 8pm and find out.

RSPB Local Group Plant Sale Saturday 11th May, RSPB Lochwinnoch, 11am - 4pm Come along to stock up on your bedding plants for the season ahead, pick up some bargain books and CD/DVD’s, enjoy the fantastic selection of home baking and have fun on our tombola/ raffle. Donations for the sale would be gratefully received and if you would like to have a stall/make a donation/ find out more information, p l e a s e call Archie on 01505 613139.

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The Garden in May This is the month for looking after everything you have planted.

• weed and mulch the ground with a layer of compost • deadhead narcissi as they go over • Stake tall growing plants • cut out flowering shoots of winter flowering shrubs such as Jasminum nudiflorum • when frosts have safely passed, plant out summer bedding • use water retaining gel in containers to save on watering • enjoy the tulips which were planted in the autumn The tulip ‘Apricot beauty’ [illustrated top right] is a single, cup-shaped, early flowering variety with lovely delicate salmon-pink flowers. Growing to 35cm tall it is also ideal for indoor display, or container planting. It is a hardy plant, preferring well-drained light soil in full sun.

Tulip ‘Havran’ [illustrated centre right] is a stunning variety bearing rich crimson blooms at the end of April into May. It is a superb plant for a border or container. Two or three single, classic, flowers appear on each slender stem. It is hardy, growing to around 50cm, preferring well-drained, light soil in full sun.

Tulip ‘Angelique’ [illustrated below right] is one of the late tulips sometimes called peony-flowered varieties. Their soft blush-pink blooms are fully double and crammed with petals so that the overall outline is one of a wide cup rather than a typically tight tulip shape. Like all double tulips it needs some shelter to prevent wind and rain damage.

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Welcome to Finlaystone Country Estate May newsletter. We have had a fantastic April with record numbers visiting the estate and participating in our events.

Our Pirate day was a huge success, as was Easter Sunday. As we look forward into the summer we will be hosting many events through May and June so keep an eye on the website www.finlaystone.co.uk

May Events: Mini Beast Hunt Sunday 5th May 2pm - 4pm Join our Rangers and find all sorts of wiggly and weird insects.

Hanging Basket Making Class Monday 6th May 10am - 2pm Join our Head Gardner, Willie and learn to make spectacular hanging baskets which you can take away with you. (ÂŁ10 to cover materials). Prebooking essential.

Cowboys and Indians Sunday 19th May 1pm - 4pm Join our Rangers in the fun and games round the fort and play areas. Prize for best dressed cowboy / cowgirl.

Further events will be listed weather depending.

Gardening Report: Willie (Head Gardner) As this report is compiled almost a month in advance, many of my predictions reported for the month of April did not come to fruition, due mainly to the severely cold winds that we have encountered. Many of our plants are almost a month behind this year; our magnificent displays of Daffodils and Tulips throughout the estate are blooming much later, which should continue to the end of May this year. If the weather improves we should see the beautiful azaleas burst into bloom towards the end of the month. In the winter border many of the shrubs and sub-shrubs should still be providing a colourful display.

In the kitchen garden, all the potatoes have now been planted, broad beans are in, peas have been sown (hopefully the mice will not have too many), and our onion sets have been planted. This year I have acquired seed for Australian walking onions; these grown in a much different fashion from conventional onions, they should provide a talking point for the younger

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visitors, and seemingly the flavour is more intense than our traditional varieties.

The onion planting was carried out by our new French student this year; Marie Mosquet. Marie will be working with me for 8 weeks, she will be trying to improve her English (which is already excellent), and learn new horticultural and practical skills in the garden. She is 18yrs old and studying at The National School of Nature & Landscape in France. She is enjoying the work very much, but was surprised at how cold the weather was for the month of April. Marie’s tasks include; propagation, designing, plant identification, planting, pruning, and all other aspects of running a garden.

We thank Marie for her help in the garden and wish her a happy stay at Finlaystone.

We still have large pots of Rhubarb for sale and various other plants on offer. If we have excess vegetable plants and tomato plants these will also be on sale.

A reminder that our gardening club meets at 1.30pm - 3.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month; if you would like to come along for some gardening tips and get involved in some gardening skills, then please phone reception on 01475 540505 for more details, your estate entry fee or your membership card will gain you free entry to the club.

If you have some spare time and would like to become a volunteer, please approach me in the garden or contact reception, this can be on a regular or a casual basis. Volunteering keeps you fit and adds to your skills list, in the pleasant surroundings of our mature gardens.

Tip of the month Do not plant your annual bedding plants before the end of May, even though it may be sunny, as late frosts can easily kill them. Happy gardening.

As we welcome May and the Sunny Weather, Finlaystone Estate starts to bloom. There are lots of activities planned and the Rangers are all geared up to ensure your visit to the Estate is a memorable one.

Fraser Lang, Head Ranger

One of our many visitors to Finlaystone

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Re-Homing Pets Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets?

Inverclyde Cat Protection Ruby is a beautiful 6 year old female cat who sadly needs a new home. She is a pretty cat who is independent and would appreciate access to a safe garden. She is not suitable to a home with young children and requires a home where she will be allowed to do things on her terms. She is not a cat for picking up and does not like a lot of petting, however once you win her around, she will be a loyal companion, all she needs is the safety and comfort of a loving home.

Mr Magoo was picked up by us wandering aimlessly around peoples gardens, no wonder he is partially blind!! It is a miracle that this wee cat has survived at all. He is around 10 years +.

He is one of the sweetest wee souls we have ever come across. He needs lots of love and attention, some pampering to make up for lost time and a quiet and loving home where he can live out the remainder of his years.

Lily and Rosie are a mum and daughter pair.

Lily is only a year old and Rosie is around 5 1/2 months. These two beautiful cats are timid and wary but with an experienced owner will be lovely companions. They need a home that is not noisy or busy and somewhere they can get access to a safe garden. Both are cats that do not like to be picked up, however once they trust you and have settled in you will get lots of cuddles from them both.

To contact the Inverclyde Branch please call us on 07740 947160. All rehomings are subject to a successful home visit.

Renfrewshire Cat Protection Pasha was a stray for a very long time and she has had to have her tail amputated, but manages just fine. Pasha will need an indoor only home and must be the only cat in the house as she has ‘FIV’ which means her immune system is suppressed and she could easily pick up infections from other cats, hence the reason she must live indoors. This can only be transmitted between cats and can’t be passed to humans or other pets such as dogs etc. Pasha is a very friendly mature wee lady who hasn’t had much of a life up to now so is enjoying the attention she is receiving in our care. She will be looking for a permanent home with a person who will show her the love and kindness that has so far been lacking in her life and she will make a lovely companion cat for someone. Ref North Ayrshire.

Jack is just a baby - he is only 10 months old and would make a great family pet. He has been brought up as a housecat but would love to be able to see the outside world. He is a very friendly black and white boy.

Ref: D

t: 01505 613340

Rex is a 5 year old male Border Collie Rex is a nervous boy who would suit a family home with older children. He would thrive on plenty of exercise, consistency and routine in his life. Rex loves playing with his toys in the pen.

If you can offer Rex a loving home, please call and quote ref 259720.

Rainbow is a 2 year old male cross breed.

Rainbow is a friendly boy who would suit a family home with older children.

He is a young dog who has plenty of energy to burn and would thrive on lots of exercise and further training. If you can offer Rainbow a loving home, please call and quote ref 260777.

Flossy is a 1-2 year old female German Shepherd Flossy is a nice, big girl who would suit an experienced owner.

She is your typical shepherd who enjoys attention from everyone who works with her and is eager to please. Flossy would benefit from further training and discipline.

She would suit a family home with older children. If you can offer Flossy a loving home, please call and quote ref 260923.

To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca.org/rehoming

Charity Fun Horse Show Come and have a fun day and help us raise funds for Cancer Research UK on Sunday 9th June, including Clear Round Jumping ~ Sponsored Fun Ride ~ Auction & Raffle ~ Tea and Cake!!

We have been overwhelmed with the generosity of the prizes offered for auction and raffle. Below is a list of the ones donated so far but more are being added so please keep checking our website for full details, including how you can bid for them.

Lesson with David Gatherer / £30 voucher for First Saddlery, Lesson with Linda Barnes, Listed Judge / Reiki session for either human, horse or dog / 2 hr private cooking lesson with Marcel Grant / New set of shoes by farrier Scott Davidson / Physio assessment/treatment

by Ruth Torrance / 1 hr flight around local area, for 3 people, in a Piper Arrow light aircraft (worth around £160 per person.

Rescue Centres Dogs Trust Glasgow: 0141-773-5130 - www.dogstrust.org.uk Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue: 01505-502415 - www.hessilhead.org.uk Inverclyde Cat Protection: 07740-947160 - www.inverclyde.cats.org.uk Johnstone Cat Rescue: 01505 337321 Renfrewshire Cat Protection: 0141-876-4133 - www.renfrewshire.cats.org.uk Scottish SPCA: 0141-882-1688 - www.scottishspca.org

Teddy is a very friendly young tabby and white boy who is looking for a new home where he will be allowed to go outdoors. Ref: AW To contact the Renfrewshire Branch on 0141 876 4133. All rehomings are subject to a successful home visit.

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pets & wildlife Kilbarchan Bee Keepers Association Spring is here (well technically it is) and with spring comes the rejuvenation of activity in the bee hive with the Queen beginning to lay eggs for the new seasons first bees. The late spring and varied weather has had some impact on the foraging activity of bees, but they are bringing in pollen from late flowering crocus’ and snowdrops, anemones and gorse. Spring is a critical period for the honey bee as they are dependent on the supply of pollen in their area and the conditions being suitable for them to forage for pollen to enable them to raise their larvae. The beekeepers are checking hives more thoroughly now the temperature is rising and there is less risk to the bees in doing so and preparing for the season ahead.

People associate Honey bees with Honey – obviously, but there are other products from the hive and an example of this is bees wax. Bees wax can be used in the production of many cosmetics such as moisturising creams and lip balms etc. It is also excellent for making Candles, Artificial Flowers and models and even the foundation used by bees to make Honey Comb. The smell of beeswax is distinctive and very pleasant and such product commercially can demand fairly high prices.

In February, the Scottish Beekeeping Association arranged a Wax Workshop which covered the making of Candles, wax models and floral displays and also foundation. The course was well attended with representation from Kilbarchan in both participants and demonstrators. Attendees came away with plenty of products they had made from Delicate wax flowers, and traditional dipped and rolled candles (see picture above) to Moulded candles in many shapes and sizes, and many people purchased moulds of their own to make candles at home from their own beeswax.

If you are interested in beekeeping for yourself or the whole family, anyone is welcome to join. Contact Ian Craig, the KBA Secretary on 01505 322684 or via e-mail beekeeper30@btinternet.com if you would like to know more!

Please Donate Cat Food Johnstone Cat Rescue’s fund raising is very slow at this time of year and we are struggling to cope Your help would be most appreciated. Sheena can be contacted on 01505 337321.

Therapet Visiting Service For some years now it has been recognised, more and more, that pets are good for us! Indeed, it has been scientifically proven that the mere action of stroking a dog, or cat, slows down the heartbeat, reduces blood pressure and makes someone who has already suffered a heart attack much less likely to have another.

Through no fault of their own, many people find themselves deprived of companionship of a much loved dog. It may be that they have had to go into sheltered housing, residential accommodation, a long-stay geriatric ward; perhaps they are simply no longer able to care properly for a pet. The same applies to children who are mentally or physically handicapped and those suffering a terminal illness.

THERAPETS come in all breeds, cross-breeds, or 57-variety mongrels!

They can be small, medium or large! The only real vital statistic is a steady and happy temperament. The dogs are approved for temperament and general suitability before being accepted and are not considered until at least one year old. We also have some lovely feline visitors!

Volunteer owners must become actual members of CANINE CONCERN SCOTLAND TRUST - mainly so that we can be sure of insurance cover although, happily, so far we only know of only one very minor incident - a happy dog’s tail sweeping a vase from a low table!

Volunteers must be willing to make a regular commitment to visit, it need not be very often - once a fortnight, once a month or whenever - but the visits must be regular because the residents and patients look forward to them so much and are disappointed if they suddenly cease.

THERAPET REPRESENTATIVES:Mr James Macdonald, 18 Mannering Rd., Shawlands, G41 3SW. Tel: 0141 632 4893 or email: James@bramlynn. freeserve.co.uk Mrs Susan Ross, 9 Macleod Crescent, Helensburgh, G84 9QX. Tel: 01436 678 712 or email: susanross@tiscali.co.uk Mrs Val Burns, 3 Birchlea Drive, Giffnock, Glasgow. G46 6BP. Tel: 0141 585 7507 or email: valerieburns@hotmail.com

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

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business classified advertising Trades and Services

business ad rates:

TRADES & SERVICES Black & White ads only Lineage: up to 20 words £12.00* Boxed ad: £6.60* per column cm PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES CARS FOR SALE Lineage: up to 20 words £12.00* Boxed ad: £6.60* per column cm Photo: add £6.00* (colour) *all prices subject to VAT The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

TRAINING

MUSIC TUITION

BUSINESS SERVICES

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miscellaneous

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deadlines TUITION

SITUATIONS VACANT

If you want something placed in the next issue either send an email to:

info@advertizer.co.uk or call the office:

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FRIDAY 17 MAY

JUNE ‘13 ISSUE: • Deadline: 17th May • Delivery: 31st May JULY ‘13 ISSUE: • Deadline: 14th June • Delivery: 28th June

CHILDCARE Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 614925 Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders. P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 873839.

pets & animalS COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

councillors RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

TLC for pets. Dog walking, cat feeding & sleep-overs. Spaces in Bridge of Weir and Houston. Reasonable rates. Contact Carol on 01505 690264 or 07837 457413.

Ward 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie, Howwood Councillors John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and Iain McMillan Ward 8 - Johnstone North, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch

CONTENT OF THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER. The Gryffe Advertizer is a magazine published by The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd

Advertising throughout The Gryffe Advertizer:

HOLIDAY HOMES

ON FLORIDA: superb selection of hand-picked villas and condos near Disney and Gulf Coast. Rates from £250 per wk - also property purchase service with rental support. Call Hazel on 01505 613603 www.floridaselectvillas.com HOLIDAY FOR SALE – July 4th to 18th 2013. 5 Bedroom villa with pool. Hillside location, 10 mins to coast. South West France – 10 mins from Spanish Border. Price includes flights for 4 people.

Price £3,600. Tel: 07751 313356.

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

It is hereby agreed that: • The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising.

• All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards.

• Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher.

• The Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear.

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

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

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

Editorial throughout The Gryffe Advertizer: The opinions of the Contributors to this Publication are not necessarily the official views of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to edit or refuse any material submitted for publication.

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Councillors Derek Bibby, Andy Doig and Christopher Gilmour Ward 9 - Houston, Crosslee and Linwood Councillors Stuart Clark, Audrey Doig, Anne Hall and Allan Noon Ward 10 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank Councillors Maria Brown, Mike Holmes and James Maclaren

INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (Port Glasgow, Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village Councillors David Wilson, Jim MacLeod, Stephen McCabe and James McColgan

community council Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm www. bishoptoncouncil.com BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 1st Tues at 7.00pm (NB: Last Tues of June, No Aug meeting) www. bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: Last Thurs at 7.30pm (NB: No meetings: July or Dec) HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wed at 7.30pm www. houstoncommunitycouncil.co.uk HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. www. howwood.com/community-council.php KILBARCHAN: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. www. kilbarchan.info/community_council.html KILMACOLM & QUARRIERS: Last Tues at 7.30pm, Kilmacolm Cargill Centre (NB: No meetings: July or Dec) www.kilmacolmcc.co.uk LANGBANK: Church Hall: 2nd Wed at 7.30pm LOCHWINNOCH: Parish Church: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

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sales & wants Items For Sale Baby Equipment Graco Quattro Tour Deluxe pram complete with baby carrier/car seat, mesh basket & clear rain cover. 2 yrs old.

Unused - perfect condition. £100. Tel: 01505 690768.

Bright Starts baby rocker chair, exc cond, hardly used. Suitable from birth. £10. Tel: 07771 862 010.

Baby Bumbo chair, light green.

Exc cond. £10. Tel: 07771 862 010.

Petite star zia buggy. Used but plenty of use left. Black - with rain cover. £40. Tel: 07900 926365.

Hug-A-Bub baby sling, navy. £10. Tel: 07570 605843.

Tiny Love baby gym with musical footplate & hanging toys. £15 Tel: 07570 605843.

Blue Jane highchair - reclining seat & removable tray. Separates so that it can be a chair & table or a highchair. £25.

Tel: 07570 605843.

Large white baby bath. Exc cond £5. Tel: 01505 874870.

Britax BabySafe car seats black x 2, height adjustable, suitable from birth to appr. 2 yrs old. 5-point safety harness, works with 3-point seat belt, Britax BabySafe belted base or Britax BabySafe Isofix base. Good cond. £35 each.

Tel 01505 874870.

Tomy Classic baby monitors analogue x 2. £15 each. As new. Tel: 01505 874870.

Vtech first step baby walker, good cond. £10. Tel: 01505 874870.

Mothercare Toddler beds 5ft x 2ft6”. Exc cond, hardly used.

Duvet etc optional. £30. Tel: 01505 613741.

Chicco happy snack high chair good cond. £25. Tel: 07850 530326.

Mamas and papas jet pulse buggy. Good cond. With hood rain cover & foot muff £70. Tel: 07850 530326.

Motorola MBP10 Baby Monitor, audio sensor, portable, good digital range, adjustable volume control, sound activated lights, high sensitivity.

Used once. £18. Tel: 07730 541977.

Clothes & Shoes Inverness cape (bandspec) by Mr Anthony. Size medium.

Worn once. £35. Tel: 01505 322856.

Girls Brownie uniform, t-shirt 30”, trousers 26” & hoody 32”.

Suitable from 6-8 years. Exc cond. Tel: 07771 862010.

Ladies coat, dog tooth print, grey & dark grey, size 14 (Monsoon) Good cond. £12.

Tel: 07517 065917.

Ladies court shoes black high heels, size 5, stylish, £10.

Tel: 07517 065917.

Admiral jumper vintage brand new, £13. Tel: 07517 065917.

Children’s white tap shoes size 11, hardly worn. £8. Tel: 01505 613486.

New handkitted baby cardigans etc, suitable birth to year old. reasonable priced. Tel: 07910 640462.

Ladies tan leather jacket from next, size 12, never worn £60.

Tel: 07850 530326.

Household & Garden FREE to good home - 2 seater sofa - 158cm wide x 92 deep x 82 high. Modern check fabric. Uplift from Johnstone.

Tel or text 07780 671618.

Single Divan/Storage Bed with mattress and headboard.

Bed has storage underneath and sliding doors.

Exc cond. £30 ono. Tel: 07710 419240.

IKEA large desk (Beech) with 2 drawers (H-770mm, W1600mm, D-750mm) and swivel/height adjustable office chair (red). Both in exc cond & unmarked. £50. Tel:07710 419240.

Hygenia Bedroom furniture.

Colour ‘Beech’. Tall 3 dwr Robe Unit - H2090mm x W888mm x D580mm + shelves; Single 3 dwr Chest - H700mm x W450mm x D450mm + glass top; Double 3 dwr Chest - H700mm x W785mm x D450mm + glass top; Desk incl 3 dwrs - H700mm x W1000mm x D450mm + glass top; Large Bridging Units (2 off) H480mm x W880mm x D500mm + each with an internal shelf. Must go! All in exc cond – all for £150. Tel: 07710 419240.

Stone shower tray “Astracast” 1200 x 760mm. Brand new, still in wrappers. Colour is ‘Pergammon’ (off-white). £40. Tel: 07866 186967 or 01505 328277.

2 seater bed settee £195ono.

Bargain. Tel: 01505 506385.

3 piece suite with loose covers £195ono. Tel: 01505 506385.

Venetian stool. £190ono. Tel: 01505 506385.

3 sets of dark wooden Venetian blinds, W-90cm x D-160cm.

Exc cond. £25 for all 3. Tel: 07771 862010.

John Lewis wall mirror 20”x20” frameless with silver bead detail. £20. Tel: 01505 873501 or 07527 449268.

Solid pine kitchen table 148cm x 90cm with 6 matching pine chairs, well used, but in great condition. £50 ono.

Tel: 01505 873824.

Vintage shabby chic hand painted furniture in Annie Sloan. Paint & waxed for protection. Several items in different colours:- chairs, nest of tables, side tables & hall tables. Tel: 07950 387460.

Dark Oak Dining Suite - Downsizing is dictating the sale of our immaculate traditional country kitchen style dining room suite in solid dark oak.

Bought in 2007 at a cost in excess of £2800, it consists of extending table 77” x 42” (59” x 42” without extension).

4 chairs and 2 carvers, Curio cabinet 40” wide x 54” high (top and bottom combined) x 16” deep, display cabinet with cupboards below 51” wide x 79” high (top and bottom combined) x 17”deep. Photos available & Inspection welcome in Houston - Uplift only. £495. Tel: 01505 690514.

Wooden rocking chair. VGC. Mahogany colour. £35. Tel: 01505 612052.

Childs Ikea timber bed, 1.2m long, can extend to 1.8m.

Hardly used. £20. Tel: 07950 261902.

Modern computer/desk table on castors .75m wide,1.2m long. £20. Tel: 07950 261902.

Modern timber cabinet/sideboard with glazed end compartments. W-4m x L-1.32m x H-1m. £20. Tel: 07950 261902.

Dining chairs, set of 6, Ercol, fleur-de-lys design, cushion pads included, but need recovered. £30. Tel: 01505 326577.

6 x High Back ‘Allmilmo Wenge Oak’ Dining Chairs. Contemporary style. Picture available. £400 for 6 or £150 per pair. Tel: 07765 234248.

3 ‘Next’ Beech/Chrome CD wall shelves. 225mm x 825mm. £15 each or £40 for all 3. Tel: 07765 234248.

224_MAY13_60-63 CLASSIFIED.ind.indd 62

2 single white, mirrored Ikea wardrobes, £30 each. Tel: 07808 774209.

Lindam Safety Bedrail (prevents children falling out of bed).

Extends to suit different bed/ mattress sizes. Lightweight with secure locking mechanism. L-80.5cm, H-47cm.

Used for only 3 mths. Perfect cond. Cost new £25 - accept £18. Tel: 07730 541977.

Junior bed - white with pine slats. W-68cm x H-47cm.

Headboard H- 60cm x L149cm. Good cond. No mattress. Made by ‘Saplings of Shropshire’ - good quality.

Cost £85 new - accept £50 Tel: 07730 541977.

Chipper - Black and Decker, 1500 watt electric machine.

Blades need sharpened and priced to sell £15. Delivery possible. Tel: 07730 541977.

Garden Bench, old wrought iron ends only. Ornamental, old, very nice and in good cond. £5. Tel: Kilmacolm 07929 552080.

Electrical & Gas Tumble Dryer. White Knight Sensordry. (Model W447).

H-85cms, W-59.5cms, D53cms. 6kg load with 2 heat settings. Rear vent hose has split which can be repaired easily. Otherwise in good cond. Only used occasionally. £30 .Buyer to uplift Tel: 01505 690751 or 07768 682611.

DeLongi table top portable electric oven and grill. Good cond. £25. Tel: 01505 359517.

Philips DVD player with scart lead. Exc cond. £15.Tel: 01475 540066.

Pets Rabbit hutch and run. Cost £160, sell for £50. Tel: 01505 326230.

Large outdoor rabbit run dimensions are: 216x116x65cm.

Still in box, was £80 new, sell for £35. Tel: 01505 336446.

Sports Girls white Risport ice skates, size 3. Good cond with guards and bag. £30. Tel: 01505 359517.

Girls white ice skates, size 1 (Lake Placid) & size 6 (Risport). £20 each. Tel: 01505 359517.

Norco 20” gents mountain bike, 7005 aluminium hand built frame - cracking bike. As new cost £400, accept £170. Tel: 07947 342645.

Running watch with time distance, speed, heart rate and fitness tracker. Instructions and original package £70.

Tel: 07947 342645.

Ladies golf club set with bag and trolley. £50. Tel: 01505 613264.

Golf Buddy Platinum GPS rangefinder. Complete with instructions, software, lifetime course updates. £120 ono.

Tel: 07968 561739.

2 top of the range leather saddles, bridles & head collars etc. Offers. Tel: 01505 506385.

Nike men’s football shoes, size 9 grey. £8. Tel: 07517 065917.

Full size English leather martingale as new £8. Tel: 07963 174547.

Stone manger. £80. Tel: 07963 174547.

Adult stainless steel stirrup irons £8. Tel: 07963 174547.

Fishing rod holdall for up to 5 rods, new, £20. Tel: 01505 873501 or 07527 449268.

Golf Buddy GPS rangefinder Pro Platinum top of range original packaging free lifetime updates £120ono. Tel: 01505 873729

7 x red wall mounting saddle racks £4 each or £25 the lot.

Tel: 07963 174547.

Boys bike,14” wheels, good c o n d . £ 2 0 . Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 613486.

Mountain bike. Kona full suspension, 14” frame, disc brakes. Good cond. Ideal for teenager. £100ono. Tel: 01505 874838 after 4pm.

Bmx bike. Good bike, but in need of TLC, open to offers. Tel: 01505 874838 after 4pm.

Squash Racquets circa 1980.

Wilson Prostaff and Dunlop Courtstar. £10 each. Tel: 07836 729989.

Raleigh Bicycle Saddle Bags with rain covers. £10. Tel. 07836 729989.

Berghaus Rucksack with Outbound Sierra 1 Tent and 2no.

Gelert Survival Bags. Suitable for Duke of Edinburgh. £30 . Tel 07836 729989.

Ladies Bowling Gear - Grey Skirt, size 16, once worn. £5. Navy d/b Blazer, s16 £5.

White W/proof Jacket, s16 £5. White shower/fleece lined Jacket, s16 £5. White fleece lined Gilet, s16 (unworn) £5.

Grey Shoes, Size 5 (worn once) £10. Grey Shoes, Size 6 G.C. N/C. White Buttonthru cardi, s16 (M&S) £3.

White cotton r/neck sweater s16 (worn once) £2. Ladies Bowls, Size 1, Henselite, old but VGC (need stamped) plus Bag and Carrier £20 or All above inclusive for £50.

Text: 07867 860874.

Wilson squash racquets. Used but in good cond. £10 each.

Tel: 01505 704976.

1 x Centura Sport mini oscillation plate - as new - Half price at £50. Tel: 01505 874408.

Jodhpur boots. Black square toe with elasticated sides.

Never worn. Ladies Size 4 1/2 but generous size so would fit 5 1/2. £15. Tel: 07900 926365.

Gorringe ladies beige Jodhpurs. 28” waist. Never worn. £15. Tel: 07900 926365.

Diving and Snorkelling Set (Professional) for adults.

Unused and still in original packaging. Size 5.5 - 6.5 consists diving mask, snorkel and jet-fin flippers. £15. Tel: 07730 541977.

Wet Suit - Ladies size Large (16 - 18) Crane Surf with diving bootees - size 37 (Euro). Used once. Black with aqua detail. £20 Tel: 07730 541977.

Toys/Games/DVD 2 x bags of 80 piece megabloks. Unable to split sorry. £10. Tel: 01505 704976.

Multi games table - Includes football, pool, glide hockey, table tennis, bowling @ chess etc. L-112 x W-62 Exc Cond ; £40. Tel: 07785 544755.

Star Wars figures & Aircraft Exc Condition £20. Tel: 07785 544755.

Disney cars themed 4 wheeled roller skates with flashing wheels fits kids size 4 to 12. £7. Tel: 01505 613486 Peppa pig rocket, train with characters, as new. £10 for all. Tel: 01505 613486 Selection of toddler garden toys, free to pick up. Tel: 01505 704976.

Selection of toddler garden toys: Small slide £20; Play Tunnel £5; Caterpillar Rocker £5; Play Tent £5; Table & Chairs (2) £10. All in exc cond. Tel: 01475 540066.

Girls wooden balance bike.

Used but in good cond. Suit age 3+. £25. Tel: 07900 926365.

advertising

sales & wants ad rates: UP TO £200 ....... FREE £201 to £500 ..... £5.00 £501 to £1000 ... £10.00 OVER £1000 ..... Call for details.

Use our Sales & Wants form below and post to The Advertizer, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN. or email your items to info@advertizer.co.uk The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

Childrens Outdoor Step2 Slide.

“Lookout Treehouse”, has a 360*periscope, sturdy steps and a slide. H-146 cm x W64cm x D-169cm. Exc Cond, barely used. Comes apart for easy transport. £75. Tel: 07739 561124.

Two aluminium constructed Micro scooters in nice cond.

Perfect working order. £25 each. Tel: 01505 872632.

Raleigh Mini Miss girl’s bike, stabilisers, 10” frame, 14” wheels, £15. Tel: 01505 326577.

Other Items Holiday for sale – July 4th to 18th 2013. 5 Bed villa with pool. Hillside location, 10 mins to coast. South West France – 10 mins from Spanish Border. Price incl flights for 4 people. Price £3,600.

Tel: 07751 313356.

Ifor Williams hunter 2 horse trailer - needs some work. £500. Tel: 07963 174547.

Rice wooden 2 horse trailer. £200. Tel: 07963 174547.

Classical guitar - £15 and electric guitar with amp and bag - £40. Tel: 01505 359517.

Air filter cleaning fluid, 4litre bottle, (opened for 1 filter). £20 full, accept £10 ono. Tel: 01505 704976.

Pocket watch. £30. Works well, 50 yrs old. Tel: 07517 065917.

Amber necklaces, £25-£35.

Silver chains & pendants. £20-25. Tel: 07517 065917.

Set of 3 matching, expanding 4 wheeled suitcases (as new).

Immaculate interiors. £65 ono. Tel: 07717 473434.

Lots of country & western 78’s,ep’s & Lp’s various “original hit artists “.Gene Autry, Johnny Cash, Charlie Pride, Dolly Parton, Hank Williams,etc. For a list email: mclarenbill@hotmail.com Tel: 0141 944 2174.

Kapok (made in china) Spanish guitar & bag. Exc working cond, ideal for beginner or prof. £25. Tel: 0141 944 2174.

Lots of 78’s rpm records. “various original hit artists” in exc cond. For a list and prices email: mclarenbill@hotmail. com Tel: 0141 944 2174.

Full sized roof box, universal fit to most roof bars, hardly used. £60. Tel: 01505 613486 Roof Rack. Thule, for roof with bars (757 footpack I think).

Inc bars, locks and keys.

VGC. Hardly used but 8 years old. Was bought for a VW Touran. £40. Tel: Kilmacolm 07929 552080.

Childs Car seat. Age 4-12 approx. “Britax Romer Kidfix”.

Has the isofix option. £30. Tel: Kilmacolm 07929 552080.

Gas Boiler - new with installation & user manual, Baxi solo 3PFL, for wall mount in original box £199 to collect.

Call 01505 612428.

Wheel chair for self propelling or assisted use. Rhino brand, with users manual, high quality spec, as new. Fixed price £90. Tel: 01505 612428.

Halfords twin barrel foot pump with gauge. £10. Tel: 01505 347316.

Audio speaker splitter, Bandridge, input 2 X 75 watt max with switchable controls for up to 4 pairs of monitor speakers. Used only once. £15. Tel: 07730 541977.

TV aerial booster - Labgear, mains powered booster for low signal reception. Improves picture quality for terrestrial TV reception. £5 Tel: 07730 541977.

Speakers, Denon SC-M2 speakers, 70 watts, 6 OHMS, dark wood finish, great quality, hardly used. £35 Tel: 07730 541977.

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63

business directory ADVERTISERS - A to Z @ease Removals & Transport . . 32 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 1,3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 55 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 30 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 54 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affluent Financial Planning . . 25 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Aileen Ferguson Hypnotherapy . . 41 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 38 Andrew McAlindon Electrician . . 2 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 56 Architectural Drawings . . . . . 23 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 31 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 33 Auntie Jacquie’s Dog Grooming . . 59 B Gilmour Slater . . . . . . . . . . 45 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 BCE Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bearsden Choir Eternal Light . . 18 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 51 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 27 Board Stiff (Houston) . . . . . 38 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 22 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Bowfield Hotel & Country Club . . 19 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 28 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 36 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 37 Callanetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 23 Charles Stewart Decorators . . 5 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 2 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 29 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 41 Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 23,33 Cochrane Castle Golf Club . . 53 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 5 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10 Craig & Drummond Dental Surger . . 35 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 56 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5

Wanted Items Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710 777571.

Cash paid for Music CDs ( a few or a lot ). Tel: 0141 882 5594 or 07765 115347.

Yamaha DT 175 MX & DT 125 MX. Yamaha RD 250, 350 & 500 - running or not. Cash waiting. Free collection. Tel: 07951 227767.

2No satellite speaker stands, black or silver. Tel: 07547 231 489.

Old bagpipes and chanters, concertinas/squeezeboxes, violins, cellos and bows, any condition considered.

Also old fountain pens and woodworking tools. Please call Pete on 0141 954 1627/07765 402108 WANTED: I am looking for an unwanted greenhouse tel: 01505 843 739

Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Delta Electrical Services . . 31 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 41 Des Smith Bathrooms . . . . . . . . 30 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 54 Dog Vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Drivesafe School of Motoring . . 13 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 5 East Fulton Motors Ltd . . . . . 21 Elite Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 11,24 Finnish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 23 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 38 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GA Building Design . . . . . . . . . 3 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Gary Forbes Painter Decorator . . 40 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 21,57 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 54 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 29 Grass Cutting Services . . . . . 54 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Homeworld . . . . . . . . . . Bk Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 45 Houston Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3 Howe Joinery & Building Servic . . 2 HR Outsourced . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 36 Inverclyde Leisure . . . . . . . . . 49 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 13 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 29 John Smith Turf Supplies . . . 54 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 35 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 13 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 35 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 34 Kilmacolm & P. Glasgow Agric . . 32,59 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1,33 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 25 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Leishman Fine Art . . . . . . . . . 3 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 30 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 31 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 10 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 28 Millennium Group . . . . . . . . . . 10 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 33 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 29 Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 31 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 23 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 4 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 Pet Shop Postie . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 56 Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Quicksale Property Auctions . . 11 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 55 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

224_MAY13_60-63 CLASSIFIED.ind.indd 63

by category

Secret Closet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 59 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 34 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Speedy Cycle Repairs . . . . . . . 51 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 43 Stewart Independent Financial . . 23 Stickytiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 34 T&T Joiners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Take the Lead . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 36 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Consulting Room . . . . . . . . 27 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3 The Iron House . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 26 Top Kat Driving . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3 Tulisa Rose Landscapes . . . . . 56 Tulisa Rose Roofing . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 54 West of Scotland Landscape . . 54 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 10 Woodlands Nursery . . . . . . . . . 47

Childcare

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Plasterers

Woodlands Nursery . . . . . . . . . 47

Aileen Ferguson Hypnotherapy . . 41 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 31 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 51 Bowfield Hotel & Country Club . . 19 Craig & Drummond Dental Surger . . 35 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Ferringtons Hypno’py . . . 11,24 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 35 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 33 The Consulting Room . . . . . . . . 27 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 36 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 34

Classified BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 22

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 5 Elite Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 29 Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 31

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 27

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 25

Cycle Repair Speedy Cycle Repairs . . . . . . . 51

Driveways A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Driving Instructors Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 38 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Drivesafe School of Motoring . . 13 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 Top Kat Driving . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Education St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 43

by category Accountants & Financial Affluent Financial Planning . . 25 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 23 Stewart Independent Financial . . 23

Architectural Services Architectural Drawings . . . . . 23 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 23 GA Building Design . . . . . . . . . 3 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10 Leishman Fine Art . . . . . . . . . 3

Auctioneers & Valuers Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 5

Automotive Services Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Bathrooms Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Des Smith Bathrooms . . . . . . . . 30 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 28 The Iron House . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 34 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 31 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 34 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 34 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 36 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 26

Electricians Andrew McAlindon Electrician . . 2 Delta Electrical Services . . 31 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Entertainment Bearsden Choir Eternal Light . . 18

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 28

Firewood & Logs

Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10 Leishman Fine Art . . . . . . . . . 3

Funeral Services Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 30 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 29

Garage Doors & Gates Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 55 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 54 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 56 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 23 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 56 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 54 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 54 Grass Cutting Services . . . . . 54 John Smith Turf Supplies . . . 54 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 55 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Tulisa Rose Landscapes . . . . . 56 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 54 West of Scotland Landscape . . 54

Gas & Heating Services

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 1,3 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Home Interiors Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 29 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3

Home Security Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 28

Joiners CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Howe Joinery & Building Servic . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 10 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 40 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 34 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 34 T&T Joiners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 36 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 10

Framing

Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6

Charity

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 23 Howe Joinery & Building Servic . . 2 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 23

Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 45

Care Services & Homes

Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 13

Home Improvements

Kilt & Dress Hire

HR Outsourced . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Catering

First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 21,57 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 54

A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 37 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 36 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 13 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Business Services

Home Hardware

Hairdressers & Barbers

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8 Howe Joinery & Building Servic . . 2 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 36

Laundry & Ironing

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 37 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 36 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Property, Sales & Let Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 23,33 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1,33 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Quicksale Property Auctions . . 11

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 32 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Restaurant & Bars Bowfield Hotel & Country Club . . 19 Houston Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Retail Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 21,57 Secret Closet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3

Roofing B Gilmour Slater . . . . . . . . . . 45 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 36 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 34 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 31 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 34 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 34 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 26 Tulisa Rose Roofing . . . . . . . . 3

Social Care Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Solicitors Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1,33

Special Occasions ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Sports Clubs & Events Bowfield Hotel & Country Club . . 19 Cochrane Castle Golf Club . . 53

Storage BCE Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 35

Board Stiff (Houston) . . . . . 38

Tiling

Leisure & Recreation

Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 29 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Stickytiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Callanetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Inverclyde Leisure . . . . . . . . . 49 Kilmacolm & P. Glasgow Agric . . 32,59

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Mechanics East Fulton Motors Ltd . . . . . 21

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 30 Charles Stewart Decorators . . 5 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 41 Finnish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Gary Forbes Painter Decorator . . 40 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Travel Agents Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 54 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 56 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 54

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 41 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Millennium Group . . . . . . . . . . 10

Upholstery Services P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 4

Window Cleaners

Pet Services & Training

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 5 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 30

Auntie Jacquie’s Dog Grooming . . 59 Dog Vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Pet Shop Postie . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 59 Take the Lead . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 1,3 Gryffe Homeworld . . . . . . . . . . Bk TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Windows, Consv & Repair

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 31 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 33 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32

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