232 January 2014 - Gryffe Advertizer

January 2014 No.232 No.232

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January 2014

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your LOCAL community magazine

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NEWS & FEATURES business news church listings dental health financial blog it blog local history local news on the road outdoors pet blog pets schools news sports & clubs news sporting blog village news what’s on

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in this issue ADVERTISING

advertiser directory business classified deadlines property classified sales & wants

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VILLAGES

Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank 28-29 Brookfield, Crosslee & Houston 33 Howwood & Elderslie 32 Kilbarchan & Lochwinnoch 30-32 Kilmacolm & Quarriers 34-35

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Welcome to our special January issue, packed with local news and events. Once again, we have included a handy 2014 desk calendar which you can cut out and keep through the year. Find it on the inside back page.

Looking back on 2013, it was amazing to enjoy the most marvellous, prolonged summer of sun, stretching from Easter through to the end of the school holidays. The BBQ’s were out in force and we even had a day when my children said it was too hot to sit out! Can you believe that?

The weather helped our local outdoor summer events enjoy bumper crowds.

And rounding off the year, we enjoyed a number of excellent dramatic productions, including pantomime!

Once again, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your continued support and look forward to working with you throughout 2014. A special thanks to Suzanne and Linda in the office, the local Councillors and many other contributors who provide their news and updates and, of course, the local retailers, tradesmen and businesses for their ongoing support on which our community thrives.

Rona

Wishing you all the best for 2014,

List of outlets to pick up a copy

Bishopton: Post Office, Woodrow’s Store, Keystore, Library.

Bridge of Weir: Gibb Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe/Deli, Lochnagar, The Bridge, Prieston Store, Library.

Erskine: Garden Centre, Petrol Station, Library.

Houston: Carrick Centre, Co-op, Post Office, Newsagent.

Howwood: Village Store, St Vincent’s Hospice Johnstone: Henderson Kilts, Papa Mac’s, Library.

Kilbarchan: Post Office, Sheridan’s Store, Campbell’s Newsagents, Bobbins, Old Library Centre, Chiropody Clinic.

Kilmacolm: Market Place Newsagent, Village Newsagent, Pieri’s, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, KNCC, Library, Post Office & Store.

Langbank: Village Store, Finlaystone Visitor Centre.

Lochwinnoch: Keystore, Newsagent, Post Office,

McKillop Centre, Library.

Quarriers: Three Sisters Bake.

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your LOCAL community No.224 magazine

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local History

by Renfrewshire Local History Forum

A Kilbarchan Weaving Agent Robert Climie (1772- c1836)

By the 1820’s Kilbarchan was well established as a weaving community with over 800 looms in the village. Most weavers worked in silk and cotton to produce long shawls and square shawls, many in a fine, patterned gauze fabrics. The weavers were self-employed doing contract work for Paisley and Glasgow Manufacturing Houses. These manufacturing houses employed local weaving agents, to engage the weavers. The weaving agents, usually local men (or women), were well versed in the technical skills required in the weaving trade and must have been skilled hand loom weavers prior to becoming weaving agents.

One of these agents in Kilbarchan was Robert Climie. He lived in Church Street with his wife and family and worked as the weaving agent for John Miller and Sons, shawl manufacturers in Paisley.

Robert Climie’s business correspondence with Thomas Patten of John Miller and Sons in 1828 still exists. The correspondence, which gives detailed information of the work and responsibilities of a weaving agent, was discovered in the 1990s in the loft Mount Pleasant, a house to the north of the village, where Robert’s surviving family lived after his death.

Robert’s first responsibility was to appoint weavers for particular pieces of work. He had then to arrange delivery to the weaver of the dyed coils of yarn to be woven, and his ‘weaver’s ticket’ which was a contract between the weaver and the manufacturer for a specific piece of work. On occasions, a considerable number of weavers were required. In March, 1828, Robert was instructed to find ‘half a hundred weavers’ for ‘shades and spots’.

Robert was also required settle any disputes between the weaver and the manufacturer. One dispute over rate of payment involved a weaver, James Stewart, who was ‘rather reluctant to engage’ because he had expected a higher rate for his work. Another dispute occurred when Jo Scobie complained about the quality of yarn supplied to him by the manufacturer. Diplomacy and tact was required to resolve these situations. Robert Climie was also required to check the weaver’ work and rectify any errors before arranging for carriers to transport the woven webs back to Paisley.

Further detailed information on the documents on Robert Climie’s work as a weaving agent is available in the Weaver’s Cottage in Kilbarchan. © 2013 Helen Calcluth

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One World Celebration 2013

This event, organised by Bridge of Weir and Houston Fairtrade group, was held in the British Legion, Bridge of Weir in November. One World Celebration raises awareness of Fairtrade throughout the villages. It was supported by local groups and individuals who brought a spectacular range of Fairtrade goods from around the world and was a huge success for the second year running.

Visitors to the British Legion Hall could browse through beautiful and quirky crafts and jewellery from Peru and Tanzania, and from Palestine courtesy of Olive Tree. Phantasanja and Rainbow Turtle also had well stocked and interesting stalls. Much closer to home, LEAP Car Club and Brighter Bridge of Weir were on hand to explain how their work benefits the local communities.

An African lunch was served at midday, while Fairtrade tea, coffee and home baking were available throughout. The adventurous could even try a glass of Persian Samovar tea. During the day excellent entertainment was provided by the Houston Folk club and choirs from St Fillan’s and Bridge of Weir Primary schools singing songs from around the world.

Congratulations to P6 pupils of St Fillan’s school for winning the class prize in the writing competition.

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local news Fancy a cuppa, a slice of cake and a good ol’ laugh?

Then join SHA’s biggest ever tea party!

For those of you who like tea parties, baking, and having a few friends over, you will love our first ever ‘SHAre tea for HD’.

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‘Silver Water’ by Mark Shields

Red Hot Firewalk Challenge Scottish Huntington’s Association, is organising a Red-Hot Firewalk challenge to raise vital funds for people affected by Huntington’s disease, their families and carers. This exciting fundraising event will be held at the Inchyra Hotel, Polmont, Falkirk on Friday 7th February 2014, 6pm - 9pm.

Throughout the month of February, we are asking people to organise a tea party in their own home, at a friend’s house, or in a local hall. You could organise a big Bake Off, or simply invite your friends and neighbours over and charge £1 for a cuppa. Whatever size of Tea Party you organise does not matter.. We just want people to ‘SHAre tea for HD’!!

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/Inchyragrange

Hosting a tea party is simple, great fun and you’ll be making a huge difference to those who really need our support. Did you know by inviting people to “SHAre tea for HD” you will:

Scottish Huntington’s Association is the only organisation in Scotland providing dedicated HD specialist services in communities throughout most of Scotland for people affected by HD, their families, carers and friends.

The services we provide are a lifeline for those devastated by this condition.

This is an ideal opportunity to raise awareness of Huntington’s disease and raise much – needed funds.

Help reduce isolation; Increase knowledge in your community about HD; Raise awareness and much needed funds for families affected by HD throughout Scotland.

We can help in lots of ways – with advice on how to organise a tea party, raise awareness and funds. To join the team of ‘SHAre tea for HD’, please contact Linda on 0141 848 0308 or email linda.byars@hdscotland.org Please help us make a difference!

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A firewalk is inspirational and empowering. It is as the name suggests: a barefoot walk over 20 feet of red-hot wood embers measuring around 1236 degrees fahrenheit. No tricks, no special effects. Just you and the fire…

So if you have a burning desire to take part, please 0141 848 0308 or email linda.byars@hdscotland.org to register and receive a fundraising pack. All we ask is that you pay a part sponsorship donation of £25 and commit to raising a further minimum sponsorship of £95.

To see what a Firewalk is really like, view photographs and comments from our previous Firewalk on our Facebook page (Scottish Huntington’s Association).

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Peter and Finlay raise funds for Breast Cancer Peter and Finlay Dickson would like to thank everyone who sponsored them to shave off their hair to raise money for breast cancer. The boys raised a magnificent £810.80.

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Beith Arts Sunday Concerts A very Good New Year to all, and a warm welcome to join us for the remainder of our season of Sunday afternoon concerts. Our first concert of 2014 features “The Savage Trio”, who play violin, guitar and piano, and double bass. They state that they like to intersperse classical items with “traditional Scottish tunes and rhythm and blues”, so plenty of variety to look forward to!

This concert is earlier in the month than usual, on Sunday, 12th January, 2014. It will be held at 2.30pm in Beith Community Centre, Kings Road, Beith, which is our regular venue. Prices are: adults £9, concessions £7, students & children £2. Refreshments are available at the interval. We welcome all newcomers to an enjoyable social occasion, with good music by professional musicians as the main event. More details of this and our other forthcoming concerts can be found at - www.beitharts.org.

Young Chef Competition Gryffe Valley’s annual Young Chef competition was again held at St Columba’s with 9 pupils tasked with cooking a 2 course meal for two with contestants making their own menu choices within a budget of £13.

The culinary standards achieved were first class, with Jonathan Bradford adjudged the winner just edging out Emily Capell and Annaliese Nixon, and he will go forward to the West of Scotland finals in January.

Gibb Stuart Home Hardware and Le Cruset again generously sponsored the event. Sandy Gibb Stuart was there to give all the contestants a cookware gift. Sandy also presented the top 3 with an impressive cookware selection.

Renfrewshire Carers Centre Choir

The first public performance of Renfrewshire Carers Choir at Braehead Shopping Centre on Wednesday 4th December with their series of Christmas Carols which was appreciated by lunchtime shoppers. The Choir made up of Carers and former Carers are growing in both numbers and repertoire are in demand with bookings mounting.

“The joy we can bring through our singing to others is our way of giving a little back to The Carers Centre and a way of relaxing and forgetting our caring duties for just a wee while”. This was how one Choir member described the day.

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Silver Line and Contact The Elderly Val Crookston from Contact the Elderly, joined older guests and volunteers from two of the charity’s Edinburgh groups at the launch of The Silver Line Scotland. The brainchild of Esther Rantzen; The Silver Line launched across the UK last week. In Scotland The Silver Line is working in partnership with Age Scotland to provide a free, confidential, 24 hour helpline for older people, offering information, advice and friendship, and linking callers to local groups and services.

Contact the Elderly tackles loneliness and social isolation among people aged 75 and over who live alone. One Sunday afternoon a month, volunteer drivers use their cars to collect older people from their homes and take them to volunteer host’s home, where everyone enjoys the welcome and warmth of simple friendship. Over the months and years, acquaintances turn into friends and loneliness is replaced by companionship, providing a regular and vital friendship link.

At the launch, Contact the Elderly’s amazing Edinburgh volunteer area organiser, Anne Grindley, performed a song she had written for Esther. The guests were delighted that Esther joined them for a cup of tea and asked them about the Sunday afternoon tea parties.

Contact the Elderly hope that The Silver Line will raise still more awareness of Contact the Elderly’s free Sunday afternoon tea parties and enable them to relieve the loneliness and isolation of an even greater number of people aged 75 and over who live alone and provide a lifeline of friendship. If you would like join a Contact the Elderly group as a guest or volunteer please call Freephone 0800 716543.

Try something new in 2014?

Why not try volunteering for you local Hospice.

Charity Shops – Volunteers needed in our local shops in Lochwinnoch, Bridge of Weir and Johnstone. No experience necessary.

Fundraising Team – Events Helpers. Help needed at Hospice events eg., annual ball along with bag packs and bucket collections.

This is a flexible role to suit the volunteers who may not be able to give a regular time commitment.

Volunteers needed to assist the Hospice driver with furniture pick-ups and deliveries for our busy furniture shop.

Other volunteer roles available, please contact Christine Haddock, Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01505 705635 or call into any of our shops for a volunteer application form.

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Coats Observatory This is the oldest public observatory in Scotland and was gifted to the people of Paisley by Thomas Coats and designed by Glasgow Architect John Honeyman, Coats Observatory opened in 1883 and has been welcoming everyone with an interest in astronomy ever since.

The observatory also has a planetarium which gives visitors a tour of the night sky without having to leave the comfort of their chair.

Wonders of the night sky - Throughout the winter months, Coats Observatory opens to allow visitors the opportunity to view the wonders of the night sky up close through powerful telescopes housed in the building. See the moon, the planets and other astronomical wonders as never before!

Open: Tues-Sat, 11am4pm, Sun 2pm-5pm

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Spooktacular Fundraising Please Donate for CHAS! Blood Back in October, Mr Bobby Rough from Kilmacolm hosted a Halloween night of chills and thrills to raise money for Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). Bobby collected some fantastic raffle prizes and raised an amazing £522.10.

Bobby presented the cheque to CHAS Fundraiser, Samantha Reilly in the Pullman Tavern, Kilmacolm. The Pullman played a huge part in making the event such a success and CHAS would like to thank all of the staff for their efforts.

Winter viewing evenings every Tuesday and Thursday, until 27th March 2014, 6.30pm 9pm (last entry 8.45pm)

RPSG Lectures The Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow 212th Lecture Series continues with: Wednesday 8th January - Prof John Daugman - Professor of Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition, University of Cambridge. The Biometric Identification of Persons.

Wednesday 22nd January - Prof Karen Vousden - Director, CR-UK Beatson Institute for Cancer Research. Why is cancer rare? How tumour suppressors protect us.

All meetings take place on Wednesdays at 7.30pm in the Main Lecture Theatre (3.25), John Anderson Building, Strathclyde University, Rottenrow East, Glasgow, G4 0NG. Non-members welcome. Disabled access.

CHAS Fundraiser Samantha Reilly said: “Thank you to everyone who came along on the night to show your support and to the Pullman for their fantastic contributions and of course, to Bobby. It was lovely to hear that CHAS will also be the beneficiaries of Bobby’s next fundraising event, I look forward to working with him again.”

Friday 3rd January

JOHNSTONE: Recreation Hall, (previously McMaster Sports Centre, Greenend Avenue): 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm

Tuesday 7th January

PAISLEY: St Mirin’s Cathedral House, Incle Street, PA1 1HR: 2pm-3.45pm & 5.15pm-7.30pm

Friday 10th January

JOHNSTONE: Donating Bus In Morrison’s Car Park, Napier Street, Johnstone: 9.30am -11.30am & 1pm - 3.30pm

Monday 13th January

BRIDGE OF WEIR: The Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, PA11 3LJ: 4pm-7.30pm

Wed 29th January

LINWOOD: Sports Centre, Brediland Road, Linwood PA3 3RA: 4pm-7.30pm

Youth Speaks Teams from Linwood High School and St Columba’s took part in this years Youth Speaks public speaking competition in Bridge of Weir.

Each team chose to speak on topics relating to the improvement of schools and the education system – topics that they clearly felt familiar with! There were some interesting suggestions, put across with a degree of good humour, which kept the audience of parents, teachers and Gryffe Valley Rotarians fully engaged.

The judges were impressed by all the participants, but finally decided that the team from St Columba’s (Lawrence Lavizani, Freddie Gilmour and Billy Hedges) were the winners by a narrow margin. The winners go forward to the West of Scotland final in February.

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Burns Night - Saturday 25th January And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere!

And gie’s a hand o’ thine!

And we’ll tak’ a right guid-willie waught, For auld lang syne.

The annual celebratory tribute to the life, works and spirit of the great Scottish poet, Robert Burns (1759-1796).

Celebrated on, or about, the Bard’s birthday, January 25th, Burns Suppers range from stentoriously formal gatherings of esthetes and scholars to uproariously informal raveups of drunkards and louts.

Most Burns Suppers fall in the middle of this range, and adhere, more or less, to some sort of time honoured form which includes the eating of a traditional Scottish meal, the drinking of Scotch whisky, and the recitation of works by, about, and in the spirit of the Bard.

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Make Home-Start Renfrewshire your New Year Resolution Family charity Home-Start Renfrewshire is recruiting new home-visiting volunteers to help and support local families. We are a small voluntary organisation whose volunteers offer emotional support, friendship and practical help to families with children under 5, throughout the Renfrewshire area. We provide a free, confidential, non-judgmental service to promote hope and friendship, and help tackle stress and family breakdown.

Our core service is delivered through our volunteers, all of whom have parenting experience, who visit families at home for about 2-3 hours a week. Our families really appreciate the time and support a volunteer can give. It’s very rewarding to see family life improve and to feel that you have made a difference.

If this sounds like something you would be interested in, you can spare 2-3 hours one day a week and would relish a new challenge please get in touch for more details. All volunteers attend a training course prior to being matched with a family – our next training course starts in January 2014.

Phone 0141 889 5272 E-mail hs.renfrewshire@btconnect.com www.home-start-renfrewshire.org.uk

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‘Silver Water’ by Mark Shields

regular events every monday Houston Jogging Buddies Village Hall, Houston 6.30pm All abilities welcome.

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club

Tue 31 December

Sat 18 January

Quarriers Village Council Hogmanay Party

Paisley Abbey Recitals

Somerville Weir Hall, Quarriers Village from 8pm

Kenneth Reid - Tenor Kenneth McKellar Choral Scholar Tickets: £5 at the door www.paisleyabbey.org.uk Registered Charity No. SCO 07633

Residents, friends and families are invited to attend our second Village Hogmanay Party. The Christmas Tree will be lit, the decorations up – and the music ON! BYOB & snacks and see the Bells in with friends – join up with neighbours to bring a platter. We are asking for a £2 per person donation towards costs.

Paisley Abbey, 12.30pm

St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm Junior School – 9th & 10th January. Transitus – Senior VI – 11th January Please see School website for full details. www.stcolumbas.org

Fri 10 January

Renfrewshire RSPB Talk McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew PA4 8LX, 7.30pm An illustrated talk on Madagascar by Liz Leyden. All welcome.

Sun 12 January

Concert - “The Savage Trio”

Line Dancing

Thu 23 January

Monte Carlo Classic Rally Abbey Close, Paisley, 6pm One of the world’s most famous and glamorous motorsport events is coming to Paisley! Over 100 classic cars will leave the town on their way to Monte Carlo.

Sat 25 January

Abbey Nursery Open Day South Street, Houston, 2pm to 4pm Call 01505 612369 for further information or see our advert in the Local Schools section of this issue. Flexible childcare from 7.30am-6pm. www.abbey-nursery.co.uk

Tue 28 Jan - Tue 25 March

St Columba’s Community Classes

Classes will include Art, Bridge and Chinese. See the School website for full details: www.st-columbas.org

Beith Community Centre, Kings Road, Beith KA15 2B2, 2.30pm

Entrance Assessments (Prep) St Columba School, Kilmacolm Please see School website for full details. www.st-columbas.org

Fri 17 January

Advertizer Deadline Last chance to get your news or ads in for our February issue

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every Thursday Kilmacolm Walkers Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm 10am Walk in and around Kilmacolm. Tel: David Goddard 01505 874192 or email kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

1st tuesday monthly

Scotland West Business Networking Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 9.30am - 11am Share ideas, listen to our speakers and meet new people.

1st & 3rd thurs monthly ‘Outlook’

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 2pm-4pm A social group for the community of Kilmacolm. Varied programme aimed at the active over 60’s, but everyone is welcome!

2nd Wednesday monthly

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am-2pm

3rd Friday

monthly Hearing Aid Clinic

Kilbarchan Lilias Day Meeting

Thu 16 - Fri 17 January

All abilities welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212.

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

Tue 14 January

The purpose of the meeting is to include everyone who wants to be involved, at any level, in Lilias Day and to appoint a new committee.

Hope to see as many of you there as possible.

Bishopton Primary School 7pm - 8.30pm

Inverclyde Carers Outreach

Beith Arts welcome all newcomers to an enjoyable social occasion, with good music by professional musicians as the main event.

Refreshments are available at the interval. Tickets; adults £9, concessions £7, students and children £2. Further details can be found on our website - www.beitharts.org.

The Old Library, Kilbarchan, 7.30pm

Baby Social

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Sun 5 January

Entrance Assessments

1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000.

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon

See main advert on page 16 and 17 of this issue.

Thu 9 - Sat 11 January

Outside the Co-op, BoW 10.30am

every Wednesday Knitting Group

W Gibb Stuart, Bridge of Weir & Kilmacolm

Show support for the QVC by coming along to the AGM. All residents and businesses of Quarriers Village are invited to attend.

every Tuesday Bridge of Weir Walking Group

Meet mums, drink coffee & eat cake.

January Sale

Somerville Weir Hall, 4pm

Visit www.strathgryffe.org for details.

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Village 11am

Sat 4 - Fri 31 January

Quarriers Village Council - AGM

The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan 9pm-10.30pm

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1-2pm

Fri 7 February

SHA Red Hot Firewalk Inchyra Hotel, Polmont, Falkirk, 6pm to 9pm So if you have a burning desire to take part, please call me on 0141 848 0308 or email linda.byars@hdscotland.org to register and receive a fundraising pack. All we ask is that you pay a part sponsorship donation of £25 and commit to raising a further minimum sponsorship of £95.

www.advertizer.co.uk for regular updates

Personnel are at The Bridge for the issue of hearing aid batteries and hearing aid checks.

2nd Saturday monthly

‘Brunch & Browse’ St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm

10am-2pm

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

1st Sunday monthly Messy Church®

Freeland Church Hall, Br of Weir 4.30pm-6.30pm Hot meal provided, along with a warm welcome.

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farmers markets

1st Saturday

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 10am-2pm (“The Square”)

1st & 3rd Sunday

Loch Lomond Shores 10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd Thur &

last Paisley Cross

Sat

10am-2pm Tel: 01655 770217

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Angel Voices

BOSCF events 2014

Angel Voices was delighted to accept the invitation to sing at The Bridge of Weir Choral Society’s Christmas Concert in St Columba Church.

After the success of the Kilmacolm and Eastwood House Christmas Craft Fairs, we are working on several events for 2014 which will be announced shortly so please watch this space.

Angel Voices is St Fillan’s Community Children’s Choir for children aged from 6 to 10 years who love to sing and we welcome new boys and girls.

The Choir rehearsals begin again on Friday 10th January 6pm to 7pm in St Fillan’s Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm.

The Choir’s Musical Director, Helen Knight and accompanist Clare Eagle, are preparing the Choir for singing in The Greenock Festival. Contact Maureen Russell on 872905 for more details.

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The Best of Scotland Craft Fairs (BOSCF) website, launched a wee bit earlier than planned to allow prospective members to complete the membership form online, will be finished in the new year and will allow members to sign in to view full event details and book tables on line (hopefully cutting down on admin!!).

Also, many thanks to all our recent LIKERS on Facebook - if you are Crafters please visit our “Join Us” page on the website and complete the form - Membership is FREE. Http://bestofscotlandcraftfairs.org/ joinbestofscotlandcraftfairs.html Wishing everyone a VERY Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you at our craft fairs in 2014.

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business news

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‘Reflected City’ by Fiona McEwan of PCPC

iT blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom

Colcom “drop-in” at The Bridge From Monday 3rd February, Colin at Colcom will be available to answer any questions or technical queries you may have. Just come along to ‘The Bridge’ Community Centre, Bridge of Weir in the morning of the first Monday in the month.

Bring along your tablets, phones, laptops or just a note of the problems you are experiencing and I will attempt to help you where possible.

All advice will be free of charge.

At The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir - 1st Monday monthly

LEAP in January It’s Cold Outside but it doesn’t have to be Cold Inside Too

January is a good time to think about ways to cut your fuel bills and improve the insulation levels at home. If you would like one of our energy advisors; Alan Vince or Alasdair Bryson to carry out a home energy check to help you find ways to reduce the energy you use, please get in touch.

Self Assessment newcomers urged to register now

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging first-time Self Assessment filers who haven’t sent in a return to register for its online services now.

Registration can take up to seven working days to complete, as the final step involves HMRC sending you an activation code in the post. It’s therefore important not to leave this to the last minute, to avoid a rush to beat the 31 January filing deadline.

It’s easy to register – just visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/signup and follow the onscreen instructions.

Saturday 25th January – Thermal Image pick up

The round of Thermal Images that were done in November in Bridge of Weir will be available to pick up in the LEAP office on 25 January 2014 between 2pm and 4pm. We will be getting in touch with further details, but if you want to book a slot to come in and talk through your results, you can do so by calling Ingrid on 01505 842530 or by contacting her at ingrid@ myleapproject.org We will be carrying out further FREE thermal images in February, so please pop into the office in Advance Place to find out more. We also offer FREE draught tests on suitable properties so please ask about this service too.

Newcomers to Self Assessment in 2012/13 include parents with incomes above £50,000 who received Child Benefit payments from 7 January 2013.

They have to pay a tax charge based on their incomes and how much of the benefit they received in the 2012/13 tax year.

31 January is also the deadline for paying any tax owed for 2012/13.

Taxpayers who owe less than £3,000, and want HMRC to collect the tax they owe through next year’s tax code, need to submit their online return by midnight on 30 December.

For general help and advice on completing a return, visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/ sa or call the Self Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310 (open 8.00am to 8.00pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8.00am to 4.00pm on Saturdays).

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Osteoarthritis is a condition that can occur over time e.g., wear and tear; with overuse or injury, manual work or whiplash, or you can inherit a predisposition to an increased level of arthritis. It can occur in either the large joints such as the hip or knee or the smaller joints such as the neck or spine.

It is characterised by the wearing down of the smooth joint surface made from cartilage, which leaves the bony surface exposed to wear and subsequent inflammation and pain. In response to this the muscles around the joint often become tight and achy and can significantly contribute to the pain from the joint itself.

The main medical treatment for this (before a complete joint replacement) is antiinflammatory painkillers. Unfortunately everyone cannot take these drugs and in the longer term they have many side effects associated with them.

Although no one can affect the wear and tear changes within the joint itself, osteopathic treatment on its own or along with medical acupuncture, aimed at releasing the tight muscles around the joint and gently stretching the area can help reduce the pain that occurs as a result of the muscle shortening.

Busy year at Gryffe Valley Rotary Gryffe Valley Rotary is always looking for a few new members, including in a new Corporate category, and recently held a special meeting with invited guests to explain how the club supports communities and how rewarding it is to be able to do so. Also that evening Richard Watson, who is a GP with a special interest in alcohol abuse, delivered a wide ranging, humorous and stimulating talk on the major alcohol problems in Scotland and some of the issues arising. He certainly made a cogent case for the minimum pricing of alcohol. After that sobering experience, a fund raising raffle was held and, somewhat sheepishly, President Mike Farley gave out the prizes – rather nice bottles of scotch whisky!

Overall, the evening raised £500 (including a cost saving contribution from the River Inn) and this sum was awarded the following week to the

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Along with this, the correct stretches prescribed for the individual and given to do at home, can help to manage pain and maintain a degree of flexibility and function.

At the Osteopaths we currently treat many patients for the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis, spondylosis and wear and tear of the large and small joints.

Please don’t hesitate to call us on 0141 887 3734 if you would like to make an appointment or just to discuss your condition.

Houston Play Park Improvement Group.

Claire Stewart and Debbie Stewart came along and explained that the project, which had started up some 18 months earlier, had already raised more than half of the £75K required to upgrade the play park at Crosslee. Phase 1 was about to start, providing equipment suited to disabled and to slightly older children aged 6 to 12 who tend to grow out of many play areas. Why not follow their progress on Facebook.

With the Primary School Quiz and the Young Writer competition still to come, with Heather Boswell from Gryffe High selected to represent Scotland at the European Parliament in February, and already having supported the Gryffe Camera Club’s Young Photographer competition, Gryffe Valley Rotary again has a busy programme in support of local youngsters.

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Are you fighting fit financially for the New Year?

Good intentions abound at this time of year. Many people are resolving to enter 2014 fitter, more organised, and generally in a better place. This can also include getting your finances in tip-top shape. Sadly, however, many New Year resolutions are abandoned by the time we get to Burns’ Night.

The way to make sure this doesn’t happen to you is to enlist some help. That’s why this is the ideal time to get in touch with an independent advisor who can give your financial affairs an MOT. An expert from Stewart IFA Ltd can have a look at all areas – or just the ones you feel need some attention – to ensure you’re in the best possible shape for the future you want, and to deal with the unexpected.

Mortgage advisor at Stewart IFA, Elaine Currie said: “Mortgage interest rates have been at a historic low for the past few years, but there’s a strong possibility that will change before too long. That’s another reason why it’s important to make sure that you’re still doing what’s right for you. We can help you with that.”

Stewart IFA have decades years of experience and a wide expertise in many areas including investments, pensions, retirement planning, mortgages, estate planning and life insurance. As independent financial advisers they are not tied to a single product provider which means they can provide advice that is completely impartial. Whatever products are on the market, they can find the best deal for you.

Stewart IFA Ltd look at their client’s financial objectives and work out ways of achieving them using the latest products available. Have you booked your financial check-up?

Stewart IFA: 5 Windsor Place, Bridge of Weir 01505 610005

1 Kirkinner Place, Bridge of Weir 01505 690000 www.stewartifa.co.uk Lind Letting: 1 Kirkinner Place, Bridge of Weir - 01505 610444

www.lindletting.co.uk

Stewart IFA Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Lind Letting Ltd is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Some forms of estate planning are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances, but we estimate it will be £250.

Gryffe Camera Club I think we can say that we have had a very successful autumn session at Gryffe. Weekly attendance at meetings has been high, and competitions have been enthusiastically contested.

On December 4th, we held an internally judged competition with an ‘Open’ theme. Winner of the A group digital class was Tony McNamara with Green Veined Moth, 2nd Pat Allen with Autumn Reflections and 3rd Clare McCormick with Gulls on a Boat.

In the B group, Robert Milne took 1st and 2nd spots with Bellis Daisy and Gold Spot and John McConelogue took 3rd place with Cruising. Andy Stark, Gus MacDonald and John Clark took first place in A group, B group and Mono prints classes respectively.

So that we can assess our skill at judging, the entries for that competition are now being sent to an external judge for his opinion, and he will be letting us know what he thinks in January!

Apart from competitions we have had informative technical talks from club members and our ever popular Bring and Buy sale - this year admirably overseen by Roger Calvert as auctioneer.

On 18th December, we tried our shooting skills at Ten Pin Bowling to end the pre Christmas session.

It just remains to wish everyone a Happy New Year and here’s a thought for the New Year - “The work which is manipulated looks a little boring to me. I think life is pretty strange anyway. It is wooo wooo wooo!” Annie Leibovitz Hope you have all had a great festive time – the club reopens on Wednesday 8th January with Charlie Moore giving us his assessment of our last competition.

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dental health

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

New Year, New Skin

After the excesses of Christmas January is traditionally the month to turn over a new leaf, make resolutions, detox and get back in shape.

It is also the ideal time to rejuvenate your skin which has suffered from the drying effects of central heating, cold temperatures and lack of sunlight.

I wrote recently about the importance of having specialists take care of your skin as well as your teeth which is why we offer skin rejuvenation as part of our services.

My first piece of advice would be to book in a consultation to assess your skin and provide you with the options specific to your own needs.

Kilmacolm Camera Club

At our internal league competitions, judged by Sadie Turnbull, of Penilee, bragging rights went to Bill Ham, Janice Stevenson and Tina Marr. In the Print Competition, Bill Ham had a clean sweep, with “Still Life with Flowers” (1st), “The Temptress” (2nd), and “The Mime Artist”, which was 3rd equal with Tina’s “Ponte Vecchio”. In the Digital Competition, Bill claimed 1st place with “Mormon Barn” and 3rd with “Jetty, Boat and Boathouse”. Janice came 2nd, with “Dunstanburgh Castle”. The top three digital entries are shown here.

We also enjoyed an intriguing evening during

Bill Ham, “Mormon Barn”

Langbank Camera Club

The theme for the December competition was ‘Low Level Street Photography’. The entries submitted were images of Langbank, Paisley, Glasgow and from as far away as Moscow and Singapore. James Goodall took first place with his street scene in Glasgow of a mysterious police box that materialised - I wonder Who that belonged to?

David Robb and Phil O’Brien tied for second place with images of Paisley Abbey and a silhouetted view of Moscow. To view the winning entries for the December competition and other great images taken by club members visit the club’s website at www.langbankcameraclub.weebly.com This month’s photography tutorial was interesting and very apt as it concerned lighting. Future tutorials will build upon this presentation and feature other hints and tips to get the very best out of your camera. Everyone is welcome to come along to our meetings which take place on the second Monday of each month.

The January meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday the 13th at 7:30pm in the Langbank Church halls; competition subject will be ‘Christmas Lights’.

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There is no doubt that the wrinkle reducing injections and skin peels we offer do work to create a younger, fresher look, but we also recognise the importance of skincare regimes to improve the overall quality of the skin. There are countless lotions, potions and creams on the high street making attention-grabbing claims, but the reality is that more often than not they end in disappointment. As highly qualified practitioners we offer good quality medical grade, prescription only “cosmeceuticals” designed to tackle pigmentation, sensitive skin, severe ageing and prevention of ageing. When combined with non surgical interventions these will help achieve a more youthful appearance and improved skin quality. We find that our patients usually get a lot more out of this combined approach rather than the anti wrinkle injections on their own.

There is a lot of scare-mongering and media hype around procedures gone wrong which is why it is important to chat the options through with someone who is qualified to give you the right advice and implement treatments properly. If you have any questions about this subject don’t hesitate to give us a ring on 01505 704969 or make an appointment.

www.kilbarchandental.co.uk

which members had a week to “work” on the same six images. The results were fascinating.

Blue skies replaced white.

Colours were injected into pale, anaemic images.

Giant tidal waves crashed over Plockton (too much caffeine, I suspect!).

Everyone found it a really useful way of learning how to enhance images.

Don’t just take our word for Janice Stevenson, “Dunstanburgh Castle” it. Bring along some of your ailing images and let us try to breathe some life back into them. You might be pleasantly surprised!

Venue: Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01; Tuesday evening, time 7.30pm Contacts: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595.

Bill Ham, “Jetty, Boat and Boathouse”

New Year Message

2013 was a year of both triumph and tragedy. As the New Year starts we remember those no longer with us.

We must continue to strive to make life better for all going forward, from the personal acts of kindness to making a difference in parliament.

As economic recovery picks up it is vital we take the opportunity to tackle inequality that persists in Renfrewshire and Scotland, and build on the strengths of the area.

2014 will be one of the most significant in Scotland’s history. Not only do we have the Commonwealth Games, with Renfrewshire Gateway to the Games, we will have the opportunity to choose Scotland’s future in the Independence Referendum. I look forward to the debate ahead, and hope it can be a positive one.

Local life and a busy constituency office keeps me connected, and I know the cost of living has been a real issue. That’s why the council tax freeze and protecting frontline services has been so important.

In the last few weeks I have visited voluntary organisations working for people at home and abroad, and I commend their work, as without the contribution of the voluntary sector we would be in a much bleaker place. Your work is appreciated.

I wish you all the best for the New Year.

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on the road

The January Gadget Guide Lock de-icer Works Great For Car Home And Padlocks.

Heating element pushes out of unit with LED light. Warms up fast, works very well. AA batteries required, USE ALKALINE BATTERIES OR BETTER. NOT ZINC. Available from £5.00

Electric Windshield De-Icer An indispensable winter driving tool with built-in heating element to melt ice and frost. Simply glides across your windshield.

Retractable handle that extends a full 9.52cm. Built-in lamp to illuminate surfaces in low-light conditions.

Available from £15.75

Snow ice tracks Ideal for getting your car, van or motorhome moving when it has been parked on grass or muddy areas or stuck on snow or ice. Ideal for storing in your boot in case you get stuck in the snow this winter.

2 sturdy tracks with deep, honeycomb cleats which provide extra traction when the ground is muddy or the road is covered in snow.

Foldable for easy storage, deep honeycomb cleats for powerful traction, adjustable angle - suitable for uneven roadways, tough metal hinges.

Available from £17.00

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Pothole Alert

To report road defects such as potholes or faulty street lights, you can telephone us or use our online fault reporting form. You can call the council’s Customer Contact Centre on 0300 3000 300 any time to report faults. Or report online at: www.renfrewshire. gov.uk/roadfault

Hopefully by the time we are in print these two potholes will have been sorted, but it brings up the subject again as it does every winter - what can we do to report these?

When you report a road or lighting fault, give details of the location of the fault, and in the case of street lights, the road name and the reference number on the side of the lighting column.

Pothole 1: Huge pothole on the bend of Barochan Road turning onto Darluith Road.

You can also report other related faults, including:

Pothole 2: Wide pothole on the Kilmacolm to Bridge of Weir road, at the dip beside Scart Farm.

In Renfrewshire, responsibilities for the repair of road and street lighting faults are shared between the council and Amey Highways.

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bus shelter / bus stop faults, road signs and street name plate faults, flooding, and illuminated bollard faults.

EXAMPLE IMAGE

Amey Highways are responsible for trunk roads and motorways in the Renfrewshire area. These are the M8, the M898, the A898, (Erskine Bridge), the A737 and the A8 from M8 junction 31 West Ferry to the Inverclyde boundary.

Faults and damage on these roads should be notified to Amey through their online defect reporting form at www. swtrunkroads.amey.co.uk/report. aspx or by calling 0800 028 1414.

For Inverclyde roads, report it using the online form at http:// www.inverclyde.gov.uk/faqs/ report-pothole-defect-councilroad or by phoning 01475 714800 during office hours. Telephone Freephone 0800 373635 outwith office hours.

A New Agency for Driving Standards

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency will replace the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) with responsibilities for setting, testing and enforcing driver and vehicle standards in Great Britain.

There will be no change to the level or quality of services during the transition period before the formal launch in April 2014.

To keep costs to a minimum, the new agency’s branding will be phased in gradually. ADIs’ and PDIs’ badges do not need to be replaced. They must still be displayed in your windscreen as usual at all times while you are operating as a driving instructor.

Any other DSA documents will still be valid until further notice.

For the time being, the official title of ADIs is still ‘Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor’.

The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on the changes that need to be made to legislation to reflect the new name. We’ll let you know when this will change.

You can still access all of DSA’s online services in the usual way from GOV.UK.

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Monte Carlo Classic Rally On Thursday 23rd January 2014 at 6pm in Abbey Close, Paisley

Renfrewshire has pulled off a major coup as it gets set to host one of motorsport’s most iconic and world-renowned events – the Monte Carlo Classic Rally.

Up to 100 classic cars dating back to the 1920s will assemble in Paisley town centre before setting off for the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera.

The event will see Paisley as one of five departure points, alongside Barcelona, Stockholm, Oslo and Reims.

Vehicles driven by classic car lovers will set off from outside Paisley Abbey on the 2,688km adventure to Monte Carlo, via the Channel Tunnel and over the snow-covered French Alps.

Since the event returned to Scotland in 2011, around over 30,000 spectators have watched internationally-famous cars such as Imps, Triumphs, Porsches and Bentleys set off for France.

Renfrewshire Council is delighted to welcome this prestigious event to the area and thanks the Rally Start Committee for bringing it here.

A still-to-be-announced week-long series of events will take place in the build up to the big day which will look to involve the local community and celebrate the area’s historic links with the car industry.

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village news bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir Christmas Lights Bridge of Weir Community Council Christmas Lights switch-on was an overwhelming success and Freeland Church was filled to capacity for the Carol Service.

Hundreds witnessed Festival Queen, Ashley Shields, lead the countdown for the switch-on at Livery Walk. Santa was on hand to greet the children as they entered the Royal British Legion Club where refreshments were served courtesy of the Community Council.

The evening’s entertainment was provided by Greenock Stedfast Silver Band.

The Community Council wishes to express sincere thanks to all participants and volunteers whose contribution was essential in the organisation and fulfilment of the event.

The bucket collection on the evening raised £230.96 however with the cost of the event reaching over £500 the Community Council will require additional funding for next year; any willing sponsor would be welcome!!!

Langbank Village Lunch Come along to Langbank Village Centre on Thursday 23rd January at 1pm for a delicious two course lunch, followed by tea, coffee and sweet treats.

Tickets £8pp will be on sale, from the village shop, in early January,

Bridge of Weir SWRI Our next meeting takes place on Thursday 9th January at 7.30pm in the British Legion hall where our speaker will be Margaret Burns with “A Taste of Burns”. There will also be a silent auction that evening with many bargains to be had. All members and friends will be made very welcome.

Bridge of Weir Community Council The Police reported that during the month of November, 7 crimes were reported with 2 detections, this being half the amount from the previous month. The Community Council had asked in advance why Police when called to incidents in Loch Place and they don’t embark from their vehicle.

This matter has been taken up and Officers have been instructed to be more visible. A suggestion was made that a Police Notice be placed in the Cargill Hall asking patron’s to refrain from parking on the pavement at Lintwhite Crescent, the Police agreed to this.

Michael Watson from SPT attended the meeting and explained that bus operators are a for profit commercial operation and often cherry picking major routes. When these routes become unprofitable and services withdrawn it’s the role of the SPT to fill the gaps taking into account basic frequency of service allowing for access to health services, employment and other public utilities. Often this involves services that interchange. Michael also informed us that commercial service 317 Kilmacolm to Johnstone Station via Quarriers and Bridge of Weir operated by Gillen’s is to be withdrawn on the 14th January 2014 and it is likely that a subsidised SPT service will be considered. The meeting suggested that this would be an appropriate opportunity to re-route the current X7a to include the village centre.

Cllr MacLaren reported on the street light faults, damage to Torr Road pavement and potholes, all had been reported to the Roads Department.

The Councillor will investigate if Mimosa Road is to be resurfaced in the This event is open to all villagers and has been very well attended in current programme and will request the old damaged lamp post in Mill O previous years, so remember to put this date in your new diary.

Gryffe Road be removed. He mentioned the food re-cycling uplift was slow but steady. This will have to be improved as it was reported to the Forum of Community Councils by Shona MacDougall, Director of Community Resources that there has to be no landfill waste after 2020. Residents in Torr Road were happy Happy New Year to our customers, volunteers and employees. A big thank you with the recent road re-surfacing works. for using the Post Office, Shop and Café during 2013. Sales of the Bridge of Weir calendar and Christmas Cards were outstanding. A great incentive to us The Forum heard that there is to be a review of for 2014! the scheme for Community Councils and has to be Please visit us early in January to grab a bargain. Any festive stock left, plus other bits and complete by 2015. The Planning Convener informed the pieces will be on sale at knock down prices to ensure we have space to display new stock. meeting that he had received notification of a hearing to be held by Ms Karen Heywood, Scottish Office NEW SERVICES coming to The Bridge in 2014 Reporter to examine unresolved issues in respect of Starting on Monday 13th January, and fortnightly thereafter, Renfrewshire Citizens’ Advice the Local Development Plan. This hearing is to gather Bureau will be running an outreach project at The Bridge, from 10am to 1pm. This will initially further information on certain matters relating to Policy run for two months to assess demand.

C 1 network of centre’s and 8 Braehead. The Reporter The following month, on Monday 3rd February and the first Monday of each month thereafter, requires no further information from the Community Colin Fyfe, well known to Advertizer readers with his IT Blog, will be running a computer clinic Council therefore there is no requirement to attend. in The Bridge from 10am to 1pm. If you have a problem with your The Community Council will support an objection to the computer, come along and get advice from Colin.

Planning Application for the erection of a windfarm at The Bridge Millour Hill within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

A weekly Bridge Class is very popular on Friday afternoons.

The opening times:Hard of Hearing Clinic takes place every 3rd Friday monthly. Consultants are working on the costs of the walkway • MON 9am-5pm Surgeries, normally monthly, are held by our MSP’s and MP. Local project at the Ladeside and it is hoped that figures may • TUE 1pm-5pm organisations hire The Bridge for meetings and events and we are be available by the March meeting. The new litter bin at • WED 10am-2pm keen for other local groups to make use of the facilities. Please Houston Road Park has been welcomed.

• THU 10am-2pm drop into The Bridge for more information and the timings of the • FRI 1pm-5pm Community Centre activities. Our new room ensures privacy.

• SAT 9am-1pm The Bridge also boasts a drop in café, art exhibitions, sales of used

The Bridge

PLEASE NOTE: The Bridge Post Office will now be closed for half an hour lunch on Mondays from 12noon -12.30pm

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books, a venue for the showing of films and a showcase for the sale of gifts produced by local craft workers.

Lastly a big thank you to our team of dedicated volunteers as without them The Bridge could not operate. Please make their day by popping in to view all The Bridge has to offer.

Langbank SWRI

A Happy New Year to members and friends. On the 16th January at 7.30pm, The Bearsden Fiddlers will visit. This is an OPEN evening when villagers may wish to join us. Cheese and wine will be served. The Village Centre, Middlepenny Road.

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Brighter Bridge of Weir When we make New Year resolutions, we resolve will go on whatever diet is currently fashionable, drink less and exercise more. But, let’s be honest about this, most of us will drop out within a few weeks, or even days.

If that applies to you, then Brighter Bridge of Weir can help you maintain at least one of your resolutions.

Regular exercise of a type to suit you (from gentle to more robust), at a time to suit you (morning, afternoon or evening), and at a frequency to suit you (hourly, daily, weekly, monthly or any permutation you like). And best of all, it’s ABSOLUTELY FREE! So why not make volunteering for Brighter Bridge of Weir one of your New Year Resolutions? You don’t have to know anything about gardening, horticulture or any of the science stuff. Just be prepared to dig in (no pun intended) and help create a brighter Bridge of Weir.

It’s not seasonal, it’s all year round: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

We work throughout the year helping to make our village look better. You will have seen our festive lighting displays on Main Street, complementing the Community Council’s display at Livery Walk. Maintaining the barrier baskets and planters throughout the village is a year-round operation: this coming spring’s bulbs were planted last month, after last season’s growth was cleared and the ground made ready. And, of course, come the spring and summer months, there will be more planting, weeding and watering to be done.

If you don’t fancy exhausting yourself (and perhaps your bank account) at a gym, ask us about our free and flexible ‘exercise programme’. It’s fun and very rewarding too.

Call Alice Johnstone on 01505 613679, or Dougie McNicol on 07810 722 806, or email info@brighterbridgeofweir.org , You can find out more about us and what we do on our website: www.brighterbridgeofweir.org We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all those who helped make our work in 2013 possible. From our volunteers to donors, both private and commercial, and to the residents and businesses who allowed us to clamber over their property and plug into their electricity for the festive lights. To all of them and to you, our prospective volunteer, we wish a very happy 2014.

Bridge of Weir History Society At the meeting on Monday 27th January John Pressly will talk about “Renfrewshire Aviation. The History of Powered Flight in Renfrewshire”.

The meeting starts at 8pm and is held in the large hall of Freeland Church, in Bridge of Weir. Tea & coffee is served after the talk. Everyone welcome, visitors invited to make donation of £1.50 at the door.

Any queries, please phone either Rosemary 01505 614252 or Lorraine 01505 612202.

I hope you had a very Happy Christmas and I wish everyone a good New Year. Don’t be in too much of a hurry next time you go to a cash machine. Here are 5 things you need to look out for when you withdraw cash at an ATM: 1. Examine the card slot to check that there is nothing unusual about its appearance.

2. Watch for any hidden camera near the pin pad and scan around the terminal for any unusual panels.

3. If your card is retained by the machine then you should call your bank immediately to put a stop on the card.

4. Place your hand above the keypad while typing your pin.

5. Be extra vigilant if anyone is loitering nearby. Call 999 if in any doubt.

(For more information please go to my facebook page).

Cyclists, please use bright lights after dark, i.e. replace the batteries regularly! Can I ask all the dog walkers when out on the cycle track or unlit roads, to please wear reflective clothing and preferably have some lights for you and your dog. Even a cyclist will cause injury if they plough into you, and you may not hear them coming!

I am available to meet residents in each of the three villages and I have arranged a time when I will come along and meet with constituents. Surgeries: Bishopton Community Library - 1st Monday every month (6.30pm), Cargill Hall - 2nd Monday every month (7.30pm), Langbank Parish Church Hall 3rd Monday every month (6.30pm). Contact: 0300-300-1291 or email cllr. james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk or facebook: www.facebook.com/ councillormaclaren 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.

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A Cut Above the Rest “I would just like to thank friends and clients who generously donated recently when I had my haircut for “The Little Princess Trust”, who make wigs for kids with cancer.

The total raised was £1500 which will be split between McMillan Cancer Care in memory of my aunt Katherine Turner, and Erskine hospital.

A big thank you to Romuald of Romuald SA, Elderslie, who very kindly offered his time to give me my new hairstyle.”

Nikki Hamilton

Bridge of Weir NWR Are you a woman with a lively mind? If so, NWR is probably for you.

We meet fortnightly to have discussions, share opinions, outings and friendship. For further details, phone Mary-Anne 612472.

Bridge of Weir TARA At a well attended November meeting Frank Rennie from SPT outlined the problems they’ve encountered trying to make the X7A service more permanent. The temporary service to Johnstone will be monitored and will continue to run till the end of March. The SPT are also looking at a possible triangular service encompassing St. Andrews Drive, Gorse Crescent and the Primary School, it is hoped this service would also accommodate those needing to attend the GPs’ surgery. The SPT have assured residents that they won’t be walking away from the village.

Drew McNab from Renfrewshire Council’s Community Resources outlined the plans for LED street lighting to be installed on Houston Road, before the end of March. With winter upon us gritting was also discussed, with the Council going to reassess areas of the village. A new ‘Ren Repairs’ app covering roads, lighting and housing is now available to download.

Some members of TARA attended the annual TPAS conference where their chosen charity the Scottish Veterans Housing Association, which deals with homeless ex-servicemen, was the lucky recipient of raffle monies of £792.

The next meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA will be in the Pirie Centre at Freeland Church on the 21st January at 7.30pm.

Messy Church® Sunday 5th January,

Freeland Church Hall, Bridge of Weir 4.30-6.30pm

Everyone is welcome and it is free!

Hot meal provided.

There is an hour of craft or other activities followed by a 20 minute celebration and then a sit down meal with hot food. Please come and join us – it really is good fun and a great way to meet new people in the community. If you plan to be there or have any questions give Catherine Daly a ring on 07980 649377. Otherwise just turn up at Freeland Church hall at 4.30pm to receive a warm welcome.

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THE ADVERTIZER

T: 01505 613340

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch Lochwinnoch Community Council

Meetings: The Bowling Club, on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm.

Kilbarchan East Church Guild The Guild resumes on Tuesday, 14th January, 2014 in the church hall at 7.30pm. Our speaker that night will be from the Olive Branch a small West of Scotland group, non sectarian and non political, whose aim is to promote a wider understanding of the situation in the Holy Land. There will be some pieces of locally produced ceramics and handcrafts for sale.

On January 28th, Mr Douglas Keith will be along to talk about Robert Burns.

All will be made most welcome.

Food Banks Kilbarchan East and West Churches have been co-operating since the summer in collecting food for the Trussel Trust, which runs a network of food banks throughout the country. Every Monday the two churches’ contributions are collected by a courier who takes them to the central organising point in Paisley.

From there the food goes to centres where people who are authorised to come along collect food for themselves and their families. Although regrettable that food banks are now needed, the response of churches, voluntary organisations, shops and individuals has been generous and neighbourly. Over Christmas seasonal food spiced up the normal basic foodstuffs.

Collections will continue for as long as is needed. Photo: Graham McKay, JACK Miller from Kilbarchan East and West and courier Ian Kinloch from St Marks, Oldhall.

Thank You On the 22nd November, all the projects and nursing homes within Quarriers thoroughly enjoyed a Sing a Long with “The Clydeside Singers” in Carsemeadow Hall and everyone had a brilliant time. A big thank you for the following who donated items for our raffle for Lochead, Quarriers. The Hub (Kilmacolm), Gibb Stuart (Kilmacolm), Craigs Newsagent (Kilmacolm), Co-operative (Kilmacolm), Gibb Stuart (Bridge of Weir), Ailsa’s hairdressers (Bridge of Weir), Mc Donalds (Linwood), Beacon Art Centre (Greenock).

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Kilbarchan Lilias Day Needs You! There will be a Lilias Day Open Meeting in the Reading Room at The Old Library, Kilbarchan, on the 14th of January at 7.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to appoint a new committee, including a chairperson and treasurer. Anyone from Kilbarchan or surrounding who would like to be involved in any way with the preparations and running of Lilias Day 2014 is welcome to attend.

Lisa Rodgers, new committee member, says “A huge amount of planning and preparation goes into Lilias Day. We need to find lots of people with fresh ideas and bags of enthusiasm to help us run the next Lilias Day. In particular we need someone with great organisational and leadership skills to be our chairperson, and someone with finance skills to be our treasurer. Lilias Day is raises a lot of money for local charities, businesses and organisations, and of course is a great day out for the whole family.

We really hope to see lots of support at our meeting in January to ensure we can continue to hold our historic village day. “ Kilbarchan Lilias Day takes place on the first Saturday each year. For more information, contact liliasday@yahoo.co.uk, or see the Kilbarchan Lilias Day Facebook page.

Kilbarchan is a Fair Trade Village Kilbarchan Fair Trade Steering Group has succeeded in its efforts to have Kilbarchan recognised as a Fair Trade Village. The news came through at the end of November.

Thanks to Moira Smith and Christine Macleod for breaking the back of a detailed application form! The news was announced at a Fair Trade Cheese and Wine in the Old Library. The local Co-op generously provided wine, tea, coffee, oatcakes and biscuits, and Liz Cotton from Rainbow Turtle in Paisley donated a hamper as a raffle prize. Liz spoke inspirationally on the theme of ‘Hopes and Dreams’

emphasising that fairly traded products bought here can make an amazing difference to people in the developing world. The steering group thanks all the businesses in Kilbarchan that support Fair Trade, and all the individuals who buy Fair Trade products.

Photo top: Liz Cotton talks to supporter Andy Stark.

Photo below: Susie Herteleer hands over the raffle prize to winner Isabel Orr, watched by Cathy Miller.

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Lochwinnoch Community Buyout Group Ballot Results Although we didn’t make the 50% turnout required by the Right To Buy legislation we will be presenting our case to the Scottish government as to why we should get the go-ahead.

We are now working urgently to finalise our business plan and seeking grants and loans to acquire the site. there are still plenty of hurdles to jump besides this one, but we remain committed to our project.

Background Our Plan is to acquire the old Struther site in the village with its old school building, factory buildings and open ground. Then we want to develop some income generating businesses, especially utilising the water source on the site (Lochwinnoch’s Water) for either water bottling, or even a microbrewery, leasing commercial workspace, and wee loing at some appropriate housing on part of the site. Then we’ll be looking at a variety of community facilities including a heritage centre, sports facilities, music, theatre facilities. We’ve a very good location and able to provide facilities not just for our village but for many of the thousands who live near or visit Lochwinnoch.

We are working under the Right to Buy legislation which gives us the right to buy the site when it is put on the market by the owners providing our plans meet the approval of the Scottish Government ministers and we can find the money in time. There are still many hurdles to jump but at least we’re in the race. More information from David Mellor - 01505 843099 Struthers Buyout Ballot Results The votes were counted on Monday evening 9th December, witnessed by Cllr Chris Gilmour, Hugh Henry MSP and Mark Conaghan of Renfrewshire Council.

The Results Total electorate eligible to vote = 2668. Turnout 818 = 31% of the electorate (this is less than the 50% specified by the Right to Buy legislation).

Votes cast Yes 739 = 28% of electorate. No 79 = 10% of electorate. Yes votes = 90% of the vote. No vote = 3 % of the vote These results are being sent to the Right to Buy section of the Scottish Government for decision. The turnout was less than the 50% specified by the Right to Buy legislation. Scottish Ministers will consider the results in light of any factors which may have affected the turnout such as time of year, weather, the short period since the news of the property going on the market. They will also take account of the importance of the project and its potential to benefit the village.

Happy New Year!

It’s that time again. New Year’s Resolutions!

This year, why not resolve to do something that will result in a Brand New, Confident You? With our special New Year offer of up to 40% off selected treatments, there’s no need to put it off for another year.

Laserlight uses state of the art Elight Laser technology for a variety of concerns. Permanent Hair Reduction, Thread Veins, Sun damage, Acne and lots more can be treated effectively with Laser therapy.

Our Laser Tattoo Removal is proving really popular too, so if there’s a tattoo you’ve come to regret, now is the time to deal with it. Laser Tattoo Removal sessions start at just £20.

This is the perfect time of year to have Laser Treatment so that you can be silky smooth or tattoo free in time for summer.

At up to 40% off until 31st January, there will never be a better time to book a course of treatments.

If your skin just needs a pick me up, Carbon Laser Facials are just £50 and will leave your skin glowing and fresh.

Call 01505 228095 today for a free consultation on any of our fantastic treatments.

LCBG thanks all the voters, (yes or no) for making the effort

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register We have a Planning meeting in January, followed by an evening of Precious memories.

For further info please visit the website: www. nwr.org.uk

Lochwinnoch SWRI A very happy, healthy and prosperous 2014 to all our members and friends.

The first meeting of 2014 will be on Wednesday 15th January at 7.30pm in the McKillop Hall.

The Inverclyde Waulking Song Group will be entertaining us with the Story of Tweed through Song. This promises to be a wonderful evening!

The Competitions are:- 1. 3 potato scones; 2.Tea Cosy ( any craft) The winners of the November Competitions were:- Individual Trifle - 1. Elma Richmond; 2.

Liz Benzie; 3 Katrina Brunton; Christmas Card (any craft) - 1. Dorothy Donn; 2. Liz Benzie; 3.

Katrina Brunton

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I am delighted that Kilbarchan is now officially a Fairtrade village, like Lochwinnoch, and that is great news for Kilbarchan and the very hardworking Kilbarchan Fairtrade Group. My wife and I were pleased to support a recent Kilbarchan Fairtrade fundraiser, and it is humbling that people in our villages are working to get a better deal for workers and farmers abroad.

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch Kilbarchan General Society We will be holding our Burns Supper on Saturday 18th January. For more information and enquires for tickets please contact Andrew Connell at 01505 702819.

It was a busy end to 2013.

At the last meeting of Kilbarchan Community Council, I raised with the Police the issue of speeding traffic through the village, especially along Shuttle Street. Many residents at the top end of Kilbarchan are rightly concerned and I have asked the Police to increase their vigilance, and keep a close eye on the situation at various times of the day.

At the meeting, there was also a presentation by Susie Wills of Grow Kilbarchan outlining exciting plans and opportunities for like minded habbies to become involved.

In Lochwinnoch, I have had a number of constituents contact me regarding uncertainty over the bus service in the village. At the time of writing, Slaemuir Coaches have announced their intention to withdraw the 317 service from January. I have been in contact with Strathclyde Passenger Transport, making the strongest representations that the half hourly service to Johnstone be maintained. I have also spoken to my colleague Hugh Henry MSP, who is also actively seeking improvements to the village service. As a bus user myself, this is a subject close to my heart, and one on which I will continue to campaign vigorously.

I write this last column of the year having just returned from the Kilbarchan Singers sublime Christmas concert -a perfect way to end the week. I wish you all in Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch a happy and peaceful 2014.

My next surgery will be on Saturday 1st February 9am at the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch and 10am at the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan. Meantime please contact me at anytime day or night at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire. gov.uk or phone 0300300 1274 or 07534 156007.

Lochwinnoch’s Marathon Man On 6th October, at the age of 71, Ronnie Brown completed his 20th minimarathon by completing the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow (10K). He would like to thank everyone for their sponsorship: The Corner Bar, LochHouse, The Doctors Surgery, The Keystore, The Blackcat (Johnstone), Bagel Basket (Largs) and of course of the people in Lochwinnoch. The sum of £937.60 was raised, which will exceed £1000 once gift aid is added.

Knit at the 19th We are a friendly knitting group, meeting every Monday at The Three Churches, Church Street, Lochwinnoch, from 10am until lunchtime (and beyond). We are a friendly group, and welcome knitters and crocheters of all abilities, from the absolute beginner upwards. If you enjoy yarn crafts, blethering, coffee, tea, cake and good company - please come along! Call 07879 406357 for further details.

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howwood & elderslie Howwood WRI Howwood Village Hall 7.30pm Tuesday 21st January 2014 Sleeping Around Scotland by Laura Alexander Competition - Scottish Souvenir.

Hostesses: Mrs Eileen Smith & Mrs Ann Brown. Vote of Thanks: Mrs Ann Brown

I have been in touch with Slaemuir Coaches concerning their decision to cut the Lochwinnoch to Johnstone Station service following approaches by constituents. Slaemuir have said that their service which ends on 12th January 2014 was not subsidised by the SPT, but they do intend to tender for a new service which may be subsidised.

As we enter the New Year many Lochwinnoch and Kilbarchan residents will renew acquaintances with family members who live abroad, in countries such as Australia and Canada. 2014 will be a special new year for both the Villages and Scotland as a whole with the Scottish Government’s White Paper on the steps to independence being on everyone’s lips. The historic referendum this year means Scotland will have the choice whether or not to keep the social union with the rest of the UK. My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall at 7.45pm, and my advice surgery in Lochwinnoch is on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 7.30pm, excluding July. I am also available to constituents who can call me on 07534 148224, or e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

Electric Vehicle for Lochwinnoch LEAP Car Club has had some great news. Because the Club has become so popular, we have been chosen to receive a brand new Nissan Leaf by our funders Carplus for use in Lochwinnoch. The Leaf is a state-of-theart, fully electric car. Since electric vehicles can still be fairly expensive to buy, this could be your chance to get your hands on one!

We will take delivery soon and are working closely with Renfrewshire Council who are assisting us with the installation of a charging point. In the meantime, we can charge the car at Castle Semple Loch and will be able to take our existing members out for induction in the new car and arrange some test drives for those interested, including members in Bridge of Weir.

We also have only one £15 membership left for the Car Club in Bridge of Weir, so this is your last chance to get a reduced membership. If you are interested, please contact Diane, the Car Club Coordinator, who will be happy to hear from you. Diane is on 01505 842530 or diane@ myleapproject.org, or drop into the LEAP office at Advance Place.

Lochwinnoch Country Dance Club Classes resume on Tuesday 7th January at 7.30pm in the Mckillop Hall.

Burn off some of those Christmas calories and have fun…. New members most welcome. Phone Lorna Black 01505 843048 for details.

Lochwinnoch Weekly Walks Meet at the McKillop Centre in Lochwinnoch for a weekly walk around Lochwinnoch, every Monday except on holidays. Perfect for blowing away the cobwebs, a wee bit of exercise and a good chat.

Hi there, I hope you and your family had a great Christmas and New Year. At this time of year the administration councillors are working to prepare this year’s budget. In next months article I hope to bring you the highlights of the budget announcements.

I was at the launch of the Food Train service recently. This service provides a shopping service for older people within our community.

It is new to Renfrewshire and I wish it every success.

It is hoped that the plan for improving the villages Broadband speed will be announced sometime in January. I will of course let you know where Howwood features in the programme.

This month, we will lose another bus service from the village which is a huge blow. I have contacted SPT who monitor bus services to see what can be done in terms of a replacement service Finally it was mentioned at the December meeting of the Community Council that the village needs a cash machine. I have made initial enquiries about this and will keep you posted. Remember my surgery is held in the village hall between 6 pm and 7 pm on the 4th Thursday of the month.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield Playpark on Track The Houston Play Park Improvement Group was awarded £10k from the Local Area Committee of Renfrewshire Council in June this year. We were also given £340 from Houston & Killellan Kirk from a Community Sing Along in September.

We held a Champagne Cream Tea at the River Inn in October with 160 lovely ladies attending. It was fun and games all day with a raffle, pass the parcel, guess the weight of the cake, donated by Sugar & Spice & so much more and other games. We had stalls selling jewellery, scarves & bags, and cup cakes from Houston Cake Company and home gifts from Perfect Gift Direct. We raised £3,250 from this event and would The Carrick Centre, like to thank all involved, especially Houston - What’s on Jason from The River Inn for his fantastic food and expert advice.

January 2014

H.O.S.T

Monday to Friday Woodlands After School 01505 615438

MON: Young Farmers 20th/27th at 7.30pm; Embroiderers’ Guild (weekly) at 10am; Galaxy Dancing (weekly); Diaporama - 13th at 7.30pm; Yoga (weekly) - 1pm M Laidlaw 01505 842877.

TUE: Paint Pot Tots - 10am D Campbell 07789 262350; Farmers Discussion Society - 14th at 7.30pm; Yoga (weekly) at 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690.

WED: Community Council 15th at 7.30pm; Councillors Surgeries 15th at 6.30pm; French class Madame McDevitt 0141 886 6282; Dancerise (exercise) - 1.30pm D Campbell 07789 262350; Galaxy Dancing - 4pm; Gryffe Camera Club - 7.30pm; Melody Makers 8th, 22nd at 7pm.

THU: Quilting Group 9th/16th/23rd; French Class; Crafty Friends at 7.30pm; Folk Club (weekly) at 8pm FRI: Galaxy Dancing - 3.30pm

A big thanks to Graham Donald, DJ for all his efforts and keeping our games and auction running smoothly. Also thank you to all who gave raffle prizes, Wild Flower, Derek Brown from Strathgryffe Tennis Club, Fox & Hounds, River Inn, St Mirren, Rangers and Mar Hall are only a few. Claire Stewart (Treasurer) and I attended a Rotary Club Dinner at the River Inn and received a cheque for £500. A big thank you to the Rotary Club for their generosity.

Our park tender is in the last stages of being finalised and equipment should be in by end February at the latest, weather permitting. To date we have raised just under £40k.

We hope to hold an open day with fun on the new equipment with hotdogs and hot chocolate also on offer. Look out for details in the next issue of The Advertizer.

The vacant land on the sites of Kilallan House and Urquhart House is in the process of being sold by Renfrewshire Council to a developer and further information will be available on successful conclusion of missives.

Congratulations to the children of St Fillan’s Primary School for their award of being the best Fair-trade School in Renfrewshire. The award was presented to the school by Renfrewshire’s former provost John McDowell for their continuous hard work in promoting Fair-trade.

As this edition of the Advertizer will be distributed towards the end of December, I hope everyone in Ward 9 had a lovely Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year.

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 e-mail at cllr.allan. noon@renfrewshire.gov.uk or through Renfrewshire Council on 0300 300 1265.

Diaporama This month we had our usual Christmas competition. We had a good variety of sequences covering ‘Health and Safety’ for Christmas activities, different takes on Rudolph, and a very thoughtful sequence about the army in Afghanistan. The winning sequence was comedy c a l l e d ‘Marley and McScrooge’

by Hugh Kerr based ‘loosely’ on the story. It starred some of our group members which made it all the more amusing! Our next meeting is 7.30pm at the Carrick Centre, Houston on Monday 13th January - The Sue and Adrian night. Everyone welcome.

Debbie Stewart, Chairperson

Houston and Killellan Kirk Postie

Booking enquiries to Ian Simpson 01505 612203 or Sandy Young 01505 331488 or The Coffee Shop

Many thanks to all the posties who delivered to Houston Crosslee and Brookfield and everyone who used the service this year, raising money for the Killin Mountain Rescue Team.

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Every year as a local Councillor I am asked for my views as to where road improvement priorities should lie within Ward 9. Unfortunately I am restricted to submitting only four streets or footpaths for consideration of inclusion in the 2014/15 programme. Despite a considerable number of streets and footpaths in the villages requiring resurfacing, I have prioritised Magnus Road, Piper Road, Ardgryffe Crescent and a section of Georgetown Road along with a number of footpaths in and around the villages.

SUN: Baptist Church - 11am & 6pm

SAT: Galaxy Dancing - 9.30am

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Houston & Crosslee SWRI

Our first meeting of 2014 will be on Wednesday 8th January at 7.30pm in the JG Fleming Bowling Club when Mr David Walker will talk to us on “The Hidden Treasures of Glasgow”.

The Handiwives meet on Monday 6th January when Pauline Brown will show us how to make Vegetable Flowers We look forward to seeing all our members and any visitors will be made very welcome. If you wish more information please contact Elaine Johnston: Telephone 01505 324827 or email jemjohnston@tiscali.co.uk.

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kilmacolm & quarriers K&PG Agricultural Society Whist Drive Friday 21st February 2014 in New Community Centre, Kilmacolm at 7.30pm. Tickets £3 including light supper.

Santa and his helpers en route During December, the Santa Sleigh travelled around the villages of Houston, Bridge of Weir, Brookfield, Quarriers and Kilmacolm.

This annual event puts a smile on the face of many children and this year was no exception. Our facebook feed had lots of comments like “It’s always magical every year and my son was delighted!” and “Made a wee 7 year old very happy last night! Got to shake hands with Santa… thanks to the many who give up their time to bring a bit of magic to the kids - priceless”.

The Santa Sleigh is organised by Bridge of Weir Festival committee.

Every year since 2001, in the build-up to Christmas they tour the villages playing festive season music while raising funds - not just for Festival Week, but for many of the local community groups from senior citizens’ to play schools.

Councillors’ Report(s) Outlook The afternoon social group for the community of Kilmacolm recommences in Kidston Hall on Thursday 16th January 2pm -4pm.

Space restrictions this month means that we have been unable to carry the councillor’s reports in full, however full reports are available at www.advertizer.co.uk.

Picking up on the salient points…

Our Councillors would like to commend all those who participated in the various Christmas events, and of course those who helped organise: Kilmacolm Primary, St Columba’s senior and junior schools, Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christmas lights switch on and the Community Council’s Christmas prize draw.

Our topic of interest for this meeting is KEEP FIT!

Inverclyde has been awarded Fairtrade zone status. However, this will only succeed with public support and everyone is encouraged to purchase Fairtrade produce whenever possible.

Bobby from the Birkmyre Gym will lead us through a series of exercises to suit all degrees of flexibility.

We will then relax with afternoon tea and cakes!

The 317 Kilmacolm to Johnstone Station via Quarriers and Morrison’s is being stopped on the 17th January by the operator Gillen’s Coaches on economic grounds. However, our Councillors are making efforts to secure a subsidy from SPT and hopefully reinstate the route.

In February we look forward to a visit from the Red Cross on 6th February to discuss First Aid and Emergency treatments. A visit from Travel a la Carte on 20th February should put us in the mood for sunshine and holidays.

New road drainage, pipework and culvert upsizing will take place at Gowkhouse Rd and Market Place as part of flood prevention management actions. These works should be helpful to those in Gillburn Rd in particular. Prevention works at Gotter Water will take place in due course.

Everyone welcome. Contact 01505 872393 for further details.

Highlights from 2013: £17m investment programme in our roads infrastructure over three years; approved a £5.5m plan to refurbish Ardgowan Primary School; opening of the new Lomond View Academy in Greenock, also the new £15m St Columba’s High School in Gourock and the new £45m Port Glasgow Community Campus, home to Port Glasgow High School, St Stephen’s High School and Craigmarloch School; continued investement in in play areas; repopulation plan to encourage more people and businesses to move to Inverclyde; youth employability initiatives; continued investment in leisure facilities across Inverclyde.

For 2014: more investment in our roads, as part of £17m 3year plan; progress in refurbishing our primary schools estate; more investment in Port Glasgow Town Centre; work will start on redeveloping Gourock Town Centre in conjunction with Riverside Inverclyde; and of course the independence referendum in September.

In closing, our Councillors would like to wish everyone a healthy and prosperous 2014.

January surgeries: Tuesday 7th in Clune Park Resource Centre 6-7pm and Thursday 23rd Kilmacolm Community Centre 6-7pm.

Contact: 01475 712727 (during office hours) and 07881 280016 (anytime), email: james. mccolgan@inverclyde.gov.uk.

January surgeries: Tuesday 14th 6-7pm, in Park Farm Community Hall, Port Glasgow and on Tuesday 28th, 6-7pm, in Kilmacolm Community Centre.

Contact: 01475 712020 (during office hours), 871368 (home), email: Stephen.McCabe@ inverclyde.gov.uk.

January surgeries: Monday 6th in Boglestone Community Centre from 5pm to 6pm and Tuesday 28th in Kilmacolm Community Centre from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

January surgeries are: Friday 24th from 10-11 Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm and Monday 27th from 10-11 in Clune Park, Port Glasgow.

Contact: office: 01475 712727, mobile: 07747 765 839, email; jim. macleod@inverclyde.gov.uk.

I can be contacted on 01475 712727 or 741969 and mobile: 07766 992294.

Alternatively, you can write to any of the Councillors at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock PA15 1LY.

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QVC - Hogmanay Party On 31st December, from 8pm in the SW Hall, Quarriers Village residents, friends and families are invited to attend our second Village Hogmanay Party.

The Christmas Tree will be lit, the decorations up – and the music ON! Bring your own bottle and snacks and see the Bells in with friends – why not join up with neighbours to bring a platter?

We are asking for a £2 per person donation towards costs.

Rhythm Time Rhythm Time Music Class at St Fillan’s Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm Friday 10th January at 4pm for children aged 3-5 years.

Quarriers Village Council (QVC) On the 24th November, the QVC held a public meeting with the purpose of discontinuing the QVC. However, we are delighted to report that at this meeting some residents came forward to rescue the situation, volunteering to join and reinvigorate the QVC, its Committee and role within the village community.

We will be holding our AGM on the 5th January at 4pm in the Somerville Weir Hall at which the new Committee will be formalised. All residents and businesses of Quarriers Village are invited to attend.

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society My sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to making our pantomime, ‘Cinderella’, such a resounding success.

This is only our second panto & for the second time we had four sell-out performances. Despite the huge cast & technical difficulties of production everyone pulled together, & pulled together a most enjoyable show. Sometimes, in the thick of it, it’s difficult to remember that we do this for fun but, like childbirth, the results are worth it and the pain subsides!

It’s hard to imagine now that our next panto is less than a year away!!

Preparations have already started for our Spring production on 1st, 2nd & 3rd May next year - more details as they become available.

In the meantime may I wish everyone a Happy & Prosperous New Year from Kilmacolm Dramatic Society. We look forward to seeing you all again next year.

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pets

‘Cat’ by Gryffe Camera Club

Re-homing Pets

Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets?

~similar to photo ~ Joey is a 5/6 year old all grey male cat. His owner has gone into hospital and Joey is looking for a new new where he will be allowed to go outdoors. Ref:LB To contact the Renfrewshire Branch on 0141 876 4133. All rehomings are subject to a successful home visit.

Bernie is a 8-10 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Barking Mad - And Proud of It!

Faye Carruthers was eager to find a business she could run from her home in Bridge of Weir and was thrilled to discover Barking Mad which provides home-from-home pet care as an alternative to kennelling.

Faye first came across Barking Mad when she was looking for a holiday home for her two Border Collies - Jazz and Cree. When the opportunity to run a Barking Mad franchise came up it was too good to miss.

“Our customers have complete peace of mind knowing their dogs are being cared for in a home environment similar to their own.

In addition our host families are able to enjoy all of the benefits of owning a dog, but on a part-time basis.

They say the best part about being a grandparent is that you have all the fun before handing the grandchildren back, and Barking Mad is the canine equivalent” says Faye.

“The response so far has been amazing from both new customers and host families.”

If you would like to enquire about using the Barking Mad service or if you’re interested in becoming a host family, please contact Faye on 01505 690391 or faye.carruthers@ barkingmad.uk.com

If your pet has gone missing & you would like to place a notice in The Advertizer, please call 01505 613340 or email info@advertizer. co.uk. We can also put updates on our website & Facebook. This service is free of charge!

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Bernie is a smashing boy who loves people and can’t get enough attention.

However, he has not had much socialisation with other dogs and is looking for an experienced owner who has the time to spend with him.

Bernie is intelligent and eager to please and with the help of some treats he may learn so much more.

He is looking for a quiet home without many dogs and with his own secure garden to explore.

To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca.org/rehoming Ranger - a 5-7 year old crossbreed Ranger likes his teddy and getting lots of exercise.

Ranger is a lovely boy who can live with children 16 years old and over as he is quite lively and bouncy. He is very clever and would suit someone who has the time to spend helping him with this.

He needs a secure garden and a calm, quiet home with someone who has owned dogs previously. He needs help to build his confidence and time to settle.

Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, 315 Hamilton Road, Uddingston, Glasgow, G71 7SL. Open: 12noon - 4pm (including weekends); 12noon- 7.30pm on Tuesdays; closed: Wednesdays

Johnstone Cat Rescue Fund raising is very slow at this time of year and we are struggling to cope - Your help would be most appreciated.

Call Sheena on 01505 337321.

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Canine Osteoarthritis – The signs to look out for!

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition affecting 1 in 5 adult dogs. Osteoarthritis is where the bone around a joint grows abnormally, and the soft tissues around a joint become inflamed causing stiffness and reluctance to move.

More common in dogs over the age of seven years, and in the hip, knee (stifle) and elbow joints, this condition is often seen by owners to worsen in the winter months.

The signs of osteoarthritis are not always easy to see because dogs are ‘genetically programmed’ not to show pain. In addition, individual dogs respond to pain in different ways, depending on factors such as age, general health and breed If your dog shows any of the following signs, ask your vet to undertake an examination for osteoarthritis: • Difficulty rising from a resting position • Lying or resting more than usual • Stiffness after exercise • Reluctance to exercise for as long as usual • Trouble climbing stairs • Limping • Difficulty walking, running or jumping • Decreased appetite or disinterest in food • Change in behaviour

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Although research is on-going, osteoarthritis can’t be cured at present. However, the good news is effective treatments are available.

Veterinary treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, slowing the progression of the disease by encouraging the repair of damaged tissues and maintaining or improving joint function.

Joint problems are also aggravated by excess weight. If a joint is not working efficiently, carrying excess weight causes both additional pain and increased damage to the joint.

Therefore, it is important that your dog maintains his or her ideal weight.

Regular, gentle exercise also helps maintain mobility, as joints that do not have regular movement may stiffen up, encouraging your dog to become less and less active.

Hydrotherapy can also help relieve your dog’s osteoarthritic pain.

Swimming helps build muscle mass which will support the joint. It is a ‘low impact’ exercise which won’t aggravate joint pain.

If you are concerned your dog could be suffering from canine osteoarthritis please contact the practice on 01505 610100.

Winter Pet Care Tips Winter is a tough time for us all, but it can be especially hard on pets. Here are a few tips for protecting your pets this winter: Keep pets indoors as much as possible during cold weather. Like humans, animals can get frostbite.

If a dog stays outside for the winter, it is important to provide an insulated home. Line the floor with cedar shavings or straw to ensure warmth. Check water often to make sure it has not frozen.

If your dog begins to shiver when you’re out for a walk, bring it inside immediately.

Trim the long hair on the bottom of pets’ feet to prevent ice balls from forming.

Road salt and other de-icing chemicals are damaging to pets’ paws, and can be hazardous if ingested; wash your pets’ paws after being outdoors. Use sand or a nontoxic alternative to salt when dealing with icy pavements.

Antifreeze is a poison, yet its sweet taste unfortunately attracts curious animals. Always clean any spills thoroughly. Or try a safer alternative, such as antifreeze made with propylene glycol.

Cats and wildlife seek shelter for warmth by crawling into available covered spaces, including vehicles.

Banging on the hood of your car before starting the engine should scare out any stowaways.

Our smaller friends, such as birds, hamsters and guinea pigs, can be chilled if their cages are kept in drafty areas. Keep cages away from doors and windows in winter.

Hearing Dogs for The Deaf We train hearing dogs to alert deaf people to select household sounds and danger signals in the home, work place and in public buildings - providing a life-changing level of independence, confidence and companionship.

A hearing dog changes a deaf person’s life on many levels. Deafness can be a very isolating and lonely disability; a hearing dog can offer increased independence, greater confidence, companionship and a feeling of security.

Our aim is to train a hearing dog to alert to sounds which are specific to the requirements of a deaf person.

There are lots of ways you can help ……

Sponsor a puppy; Make a single donation; Make a regular donation; Leave a gift in your will; Organise a fund raising event Visit our website at http://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ for further information.

Thank you.

Rescue Centres Dogs Trust Glasgow: 0141-773-5130 - www.dogstrust.org.uk Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue: 01505-502415 - www.hessilhead.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 These centres are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising.

If you can help please get in touch with any of the centres above.

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outdoors Kilmacolm Horticultural Society - 135th Anniversary

Recycle your Christmas Tree!

2014 is the 135th anniversary of the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society, providing its first public engagement in 1879.

It is one of the oldest horticultural societies in Scotland, celebrations will run through the lectures, coffee morning, and flower show during 2014.

Our winter lecture on 15th January at 7.30pm in New Community Centre, Kilmacolm, features John West, a leading light in Scotland’s Open Gardens scheme. His talk will cover Old Fashioned Roses, guaranteed to include some beautiful photographs of this favourite flower. Roses are difficult to grow in Kilmacolm and John’s expertise could help us all to grow a special Rose for entry into the 135th Flower Show in September.

Everyone welcome. Refreshments at end of lecture.

We are offering ourselves as a recycling point to help with the green environment. Pop in to see us at Gowanlea Nurseries, Barochan Road, Johnstone, PA5 8YS - we are open 7 days a week.

You can contact us if you need further information on 01505 328921 or visit our website at www.gowanleanurseries.co.uk

The Garden in January Fragrant plants for the winter garden Chimonanthus praecox [wintersweet] this lovely plant brings spicy fragrance and colour to the winter garden. The straw-hued flowers, about an inch across, have waxy petals that curve over dark purple centres. They may appear on the young shoots at any time from November to March, but December is firm favourite for the best display.

Plant in spring or autumn in well-drained soil and in a warm, sheltered position. Trim back the longest shoots after flowering, and remove weak or overcrowded shoots. Propagate by layering.

Lonicera x purpusii [winter beauty] is one of the best of the winter flowering shrubby honeysuckle. It forms a sturdy, twiggy bush with oval, bristly margined leaves and shreddy bark. The creamy white sweetly scented flowers, sturdily emerging at the chilliest time of the year, are good for cutting.

Plant from autumn to late winter in any well-drained soil and in sun or partial shade. Prune to remove old wood. Propagate by hardwood cuttings in mid-autumn.

Daphne Odora [Aureomarginata] This is one of the most fragrant daphnes which grows happily in shade or dappled sunlight, but prefers some shelter from cold winds. This variegated form is an upright branching shrub with creamy-yellow edged evergreen leaves. The flowers are small and fragrant and appear from December to March. Plant in well-drained/light soil.

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RSPB Lochwinnoch

Scott Maxwell on the birds of Japan

Winter Talk – Wed 15th January - 7.30pm-9pm Scott Maxwell is an amateur birdwatching enthusiast who has travelled to Japan 8 times. Encompassing different seasons, Scott has seen many species that reside in the country all year round, as well as many which pass through the area on migration. Scott’s presentation looks at the beautiful species that only occur in Japan in a interesting and inspiring way. Not to be missed! Cost: £5 or £2 for RSPB members. Please book as places are limited.

Birds for Beginners - Sat 18th. 11 am–1.30pm. Ever wanted to take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch but don’t know a blue tit from a blackbird? Join the team at RSPB Lochwinnoch for a workshop session ideal for beginners to birdwatching, to help you learn more about common garden birds and pick up tips and advice on how to join in with the Big Garden Birdwatch plus a hot drink back at the reserve. Cost: £5 or £2 for RSPB members. Please book as places are limited.

Binocular & Telescope demonstration - Sat 25th/Sun 26th

An opportunity to choose from a wide range of competitively priced binoculars and telescopes, including RSPB brand, with the added bonus that 100% of the profits go directly to helping conservation.

FREE expert advice available all weekend.

Sunday Talk: Sun 26th January – 3.30pm – 5pm

Serengeti National Park. Lochwinnoch reserve manager, Zul Bhatia, gives us his yearly talk about Africa.

Booking essential as spaces are limited. £5 or £2 for RSPB members

The Edible Tree Project Grow Kilbarchan are putting out a call for spades and volunteers to help plant 12 community fruit trees in the village on 18th January.

The community group will be planting a mix of fruit trees around the village having been awarded a small grant by the Central Scotland Green Network Orchard Grant Scheme. As the saplings grow into mature trees they will provide free fruit to residents giving them access to fresh, ‘home-grown’ produce right on their doorstep.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome to join the tree planting day but under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. No experience of tree planting is necessary as full instruction will be given, so it’s also a great opportunity to learn a new skill.

Join us at 10am in the Scout Hut car park on Saturday 18th January, wearing warm and waterproof clothes, gardening or work gloves and sturdy footwear or safety boots. Bring your spade if you have one!

Cake and a hot drink provided for all volunteers. Depending on the number of volunteers we get on the day, we aim to finish up early afternoon, so you may also want to bring a packed lunch.

Please check the Grow Kilbarchan Facebook page (no Facebook account needed) for updates in case of weather-related postponement. http://www.facebook.com/GrowKilbarchan Interesting in finding out more about Grow Kilbarchan?

Join us for our next meeting at 2pm on Sunday 12th January at the Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan or check out the Facebook page.

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Enjoy Scotland’s outdoors responsibly Everyone has the right to be on most land and i n l a n d w a t e r providing t h e y act responsibly. Your access rights and responsibilities are explained fully in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Whether you’re in the outdoors or managing the outdoors, the key things are to: • take responsibility for your own actions • respect the interests of other people • care for the environment.

Visit www.outdooraccess-scotland.com or contact your local Scottish Natural Heritage office.

Renfrewshire RSPB The next meeting will be held on Friday 10th January at 7.30pm at the McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew PA4 8LX. There will be an illustrated talk on Madagascar by Liz Leyden. All welcome.

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Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society January 9th 2014. North and South speaker, Adrian Whitaker Royal British Legion, Bridge of Weir & District Branch Club, 8pm.

Watch Out For Wildlife Injured or Orphaned Wildlife

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Trust regularly cares for injured and orphaned wildlife from Glasgow’s parks and greenspaces. Its centre, located near Beith in Ayrshire, operates a 24 hour emergency service. Casualties may be brought to the centre at any time or alternatively phone for advice.

Hessilhead Wildlife Trust Phone: 01505 502415 - Gateside, Beith, KA15 1HT. www.hessilheadwildlife.org.uk

Wildlife Crime

Strathclyde Police has a team of Wildlife Crime Officers who, as part of their normal policing duties, specialise in investigating wildlife-related crimes. If you wish to report a suspected wildlife crime and/or speak to a Wildlife Crime Officer, please contact: Your local Police Office or Strathclyde Police HQ, 173 Pitt St, G2 4JS. Phone 0870 050 1999.

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sports & clubs news CMRP Regional Roundup of 2013 With plans for Homecoming 2014 and the Commonwealth Games, plus all the usual events, activities and stuff at Scotland’s Largest Regional Park, we are preparing to welcome the world and you to Clyde Muirshiel in 2014!

Meanwhile, a brief roundup of 2013 The Park celebrated the beginning of the Year of Natural Scotland 2013 (YNS2013) with a Kilted Stargazing Evening!

As part of our commitment to making the joys of the Regional Park accessible to all, we celebrated a full year of partnership with Inverclyde Council on Disability (ICOD) & the Robertson Trust for a Mobility Scooter Scheme.

Users arranged a group ramble to celebrate the anniversary.

HRH The Princess Royal visited Castle Semple’s Centre of Excellence. As Patron for RYA Sailability the Princess named two new access boats and watched users sailing on the Loch.

Castle Semple Sailing Club Work Party and Prize Giving

When the sun was still shining in early in November the end of season work party took place. The trench diggers tackled their task with boundless enthusiasm with young Niall Taylor refusing to leave until the final part of the pipe was laid. Club boats were de-rigged, toppers were lashed together, the strimmers went about their task with vigour, wheelbarrows were racing up and down the field emptying the debris. Obviously, there were a lot of hungry mouths to feed after that and the kitchen didn’t disappoint.

Prize Giving - Arthur presented the trophies to the winners of the various series and Duncan awarded prizes to the following pirates for various achievements during the year Logan Young, Isla Taylor, Niall Taylor, Lewis Martin, Ross McGlennon and Gregor Mallon, Ellie Mallon and Kaye Mallon.

After being re-invigorated by lunch the final push commenced - whin-dust and gravel were shovelled in record time and as the afternoon wore on and the rain clouds gathered so did the pace of shovelling and just before the light faded a rainbow framed the loch and Commodore Arthur agreed that no more could be done.

Visit out website at www.castlesemplesc.co.uk

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Birkmyre girls shine in Scottish Cup Ranfurly Castle Birkmyre U15 girls won three out of four games to be named runners up in Golf Club the Scottish National 7s completion held in Edinburgh at the beginning of December. Held on a clear, but blustery day the girls showed just how much they have developed as a team since their first competition in May. Travel problems combined with a very early start to the competition meant that the girls had to go directly from the bus to kick off in their first match. Unsurprisingly they lost this match although they scored a good try against a very strong team from Angus.

At our Christmas party recently, we had 39 excited children all desperate to meet the great man himself, Santa Claus.

A great time was had by all.

After the team was warmed up the girls brushed all opposition away before them and won the next three games in a convincing manner. New girl Toni Concliffe was taking part in her first every game of rugby and made a great contribution setting up a number of tries with her direct running great handling skills.

The girls now take a break for Christmas and will start back at Birkmyre park on Sunday 12 January. Find out more and keep up with their news on Facebook with “Birkmyre Girls”.

Ranfurly Castle Ladies ‘The Ladies of Ranfurly Castle Golf Club have had a very busy year, culminating with the Winter Greensomes Competition. This was played at the end of October and 40 Ladies participated.

The Annual Dinner was attended by 50 Ladies and judging by the noise and laughter everyone had a wonderful evening.

The Christmas Cracker, on 11th December, rounded

Sporting Blog

by Lesley Handley

“YESTERDAY YOU SAID TOMORROW...... MAKE IT HAPPEN TODAY!”

January is the time of year in the world of fitness when people tend to look in the mirror and decide they need to or want to shape up. Many of us will start the New Year with good intentions for the year ahead and say things like, “I will try and eat better”, “I will try and train harder”, “I’m going to try and lose weight”, “I’m going to try and complete a 10K”… Unfortunately the sad reality is that the majority of us will fail to achieve them, and probably have forgotten all about them by February. Which poses the question; how badly did we really want them in the first place?

Unfortunately, after a few years of this, setting resolutions can become something that we try to avoid. After all, why would you consistently set yourself up for failure?

off the year when 27 Ladies played 9 holes and were then joined by an additional 15 for a jolly Christmas lunch.

Santa even put in an appearance!’

The winning team consisted of, from left to right, Sheila Biggart, Viviene Howe and Mary Craig.

But, what if there was a way you could set yourself up to achieve instead of fail?

Here’s how…

One of the fundamental mistakes lies in the word ‘try’! Don’t say you want to ‘try’ and do something! You have already cast an element of doubt in your own self belief. So no doubt, no try, make it ‘I WILL’!! It doesn’t matter how big or small your goal is, if you want it to happen and believe it can, it will.

Set a goal. Not just a basic goal, but a SMART goal. Be Specific, make it Measureable, ensure it is Achievable, make it Realistic and set a Time frame.

So instead of, ‘I am going to try and lose weight’… say ‘I am going to lose 1 stone by 1st March’. There is no try, it’s specific, measureable, realistic and a time frame to keep you motivated.

Now it’s just to put it into practice and do it! That bits down to you…

Hope you all had a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year!

For more help and advice on setting your own goals and achieving them or on any other aspect of fitness, contact Lesley Handley, Personal Trainer at Birkmyre Fitness Gym on 07512 355 877, or e-mail Lesley_personal_ trainer@hotmail.co.uk

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Chi Kung On Friday 17th January 2014 at 10.15am a new eight week block of 18 Movement (T’ai Chi) Chi Kung will start in St Fillan’s Episcopal Church Hall , Kilmacolm. This is a series of gentle, relaxing exercises based on the movements of T’ai Chi, but much simpler to learn.

Beginners are most welcome.

Telephone Alison on 0141 954 2456 or email a.gardiner@gmx.co.uk for further information.

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FIX ME NOW !

Sports Therapy is a specialist discipline dealing with the treatment and rehabilitation of primarily soft tissue injuries.

Originally used by sports professionals to aid their recovery back to a competitive level, but now the benefits of utilising a subject specific expert has spread to amateur athletes and the public at large. From “pulled muscles” to “sciatica” the services of a sports therapist could be the answer.

Six West Titles for Strathgryffe Team players at Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash Club had a very successful 2013 season in which they picked up six titles at the Tennis West of Scotland annual presentation evening held at the David Lloyd Club in Renfrew on Monday 25th November.

‘Recover Sports Therapy’ is a dynamic and focussed local company set up to fill the need locally for a dedicated sports specific practitioner with the skills to work with a client from injury to recovery.

Owned and operated by local resident, Connor McLean, ‘Recover Sports Therapy’ utilises a team of Therapists with a minimum of 2 years intensive training in Sports Therapy ensuring the customer receives a professional, injury specific treatment helping in their goal to a full and speedy recovery.

‘Recover Sports Therapy’ will work with you, initially providing a full clinical assessment of the injury, before providing you with a tailored treatment program which could include sports massage, remedial massage and gym based rehabilitation.

To find out more call 0779 154 4452 or email fixmenow@hotmail.co.uk

Clydesdale Cup (1st Division) Champions

Twitter Facebook at Therapy’.

16 & Under Boys League Champions

The winning teams were as follows: Senior Winter League Knock Out: Division 1 Clydesdale Cup: Junior 18 Clydesdale Cup: Division Boys 18: Division 1 Boys 16: Division 1 Girls 12

@recoverstherapy ‘Recover Sports

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton Why not pop along one Monday evening in the Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir between 7.30pm and 9pm? Our season continues through the Autumn and Winter and finishes at the end of March. Membership £40 per season.

Visitor rates £4 per evening.

Junior 18 & Under Mixed Champions

18 & Under Boys League Champions

For anyone interested in taking up a new sport for 2014, Strathgryffe has just launched the new year programme for both tennis & squash. Non members both junior and senior are welcome at any level. The club is also offering a 3 month taster gym membership which will include a free induction and programme for ages 13 years and upwards.

Old Ranfurly Golf Club Ladies’ club champion 2013, Ann Mckenzie, being presented with one of many trophies by Lady Captain Alison Thompson.

(Unfortunately the photo was supplied low-res)

Bridge of Weir Angling Club (River) Fly Tying for All Beginners’ class - 7pm 12 & Under Girls League Champions

Experienced fly tyers most welcome Winter KO Shield Champions

For more information please visit our website www.strathgryffe.net or call reception on 01505 615100.

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Royal British Legion, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NR Weekly from Tuesday 1st Oct until Tues 25th Feb 2014 For any further information contact John Blair on 07783 988 963 or Beaton Bros Funeral Directors 01505 610555.

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schools news St Columba Church Playgroup and Toddlers

A Huge Thank You to The Team at Advertizer from Kidston Kids!

Life is busy at Playgroup and the children tell us that the climbing frame is one of their favourite activities. It’s easy to see why as it can be a house, a castle, a jungle or there might even be a crocodile waiting for you at the bottom of the slide - a friendly one of course!

Physical play is so important in the early years to develop co-ordination and muscle skills plus learn how to manage risk and have fun too. It’s one of the many activities children enjoy with us and we were delighted with the November 2013 Care Inspectorate report which praised our lovely caring atmosphere. We were given ratings of Good and Very Good across a number of areas so have a few ideas to develop for the future whilst maintaining current high standards of care. Why not get in touch to organise a visit? Names for August 2014 now being taken. Visits are welcome at any time so if you are interested in a place on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday morning email Laura our membership secretary laura. hannah@hotmail.co.uk to arrange a visit.

Kidston Kids in Kilmacolm would like to thank the team at the Advertizer for the help we have received in promoting our group.

Toddlers will be returning on Wednesday 8th January 2014. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported our Christmas Craft Fair in November although not as busy as usual we raised vital funds for the group.

Look out for news of future events by liking us on Facebook - St Columba Playgroup & Toddlers Kilmacolm. For further information.

Duchal Nursery School The children enjoyed a wonderful run up to Christmas with a magical trip to the Tron Theatre for our festive trip out, followed by a “Christmas Lunch Club Special” complete with crackers and fun festive food.

As usual we had a wonderful Christmas party and nativity with an extra special guest in red arriving on his sleigh at the end wishing us a very Merry Christmas.

However with the arrival of the New Year we have lots of new activities and adventures ahead. The children will be travelling the ‘Six Nations’ learning about each country - Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, Italy and France and using different forms of transport to travel to each one.

We are delighted to announce that The Annual Duchal Ceilidh will be returning to the Cargill Hall in Bridge of Weir on Saturday 15th March. Please put the date in your diary now, more details will follow in due course.

It is also getting to that time of year to start planning for the forthcoming school year.

If you have young ones who are due to start n u r s e r y this August please get in touch to have an informal look around our nursery. We can arrange a time convenient to you to come and see the purpose built facilities, meet the teachers and children and get an insight into Duchal life.

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We would also like to thank members of the congregations at the Old Kirk for their support with our various fundraising events.

To Santa and his Elves who made Christmas Capers so special.

To the local businesses for their generous donations for our Christmas Fayre, to our Committee and our Staff for keeping the show on the road and to our Parents for bringing your little ones along to join the fun! Best Wishes to all for a happy and healthy New Year!

Bishopton Primary School Bishopton Primary School Parent Council (Sc0039422) are tasked with the fundraising project to raise sufficient funds to provide a class of 30 with Ipads… so a hefty sum!

To kick this off in a fun way, we held a creative Christmas Cupcake evening for parents and children, who were also joined by Grannies & Aunties…. It was a fantastic evening where we offered some ideas, and then let the children show their individual creativity. A great night raising just over £100 towards our project. Thanks to everyone who came along and got involved…

The pamper night held in November was well attended by our mums, grannies & aunties, who enjoyed a wide variety of pamper treatments and we were joined by lots of local small companies, selling Jewellery, Cakes, Sweets, Ceramics, Hair accessories all priced for wonderful Christmas Stocking fillers. A great night for parents to enjoy together for a catch up out with the school run, and raised about £350 from the event.

Our School Christmas Fair was a huge success, despite the gales in the morning and the snow in the evening, the event went ahead a scheduled, and the community turned out in force. Children ecstatic at going to see Santa & his special elf, and to show off their Christmas Creations they’d made in school. Thanks to Party Popcorn who came along and supported the event with the Popcorn vending cart.. really amazing and demolished by parents & kids alike. Thanks to Santa & his elf who made over 100 children very happy.. Thank you to the few mums, grans and school staff who gave of their time to help at the event - with out their support we wouldn’t be able to host such a great night and also to the Primary Seven pupils who gave up their night to set up, run the stalls and clean up, Aidan, Robby, Jamie, Ellie, Hannah, Simmeron, Eve, Darren, Eve, Emily, Jon, Lee and Arran all of them did an amazing job. The event raised over £2,200 for the school funds which will go someway to helping us reach £6,500 to provide 15 Ipads for our school. Thanks to everyone for their contributions to the various raffles - it is as ever greatly appreciated.

A date for your diary - We will be holding another event for Parent & Child prior to Mother’s day on the 28th March.

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Gryffe PTA Christmas Fayre – Festive Fun! The school dining room was packed full of festive stalls for the annual PTA Christmas Fayre. The event was well attended and there was a good selection of Christmas gifts. Clothes, jewellery, candles, delicious fudge and cupcakes are just a sample of what was on offer and all showered with a lot of Christmas sparkle. There was a bottle stall where most people were lucky and won something and there were also some fabulous prizes in the Raffle.

Another popular stall was the glitter tattoo stall where both adults and children were adorned with colourful designs.

Both S6 Young Enterprise Groups were there, selling their innovative new products. There are two groups this year. First we have ‘Wristy’ who are selling wrist watches.

These come in Staff member many attractive Maureen Willbond colours of silicone with an unusual twist. The other Enterprise Group is called ‘Commonwealth Uncovered’.

This group has put in a great deal of time and energy compiling an information book to help tourists navigate around Scotland.

The guest at the fayre was St Mirren striker S4 Megan McFadzean Steven Thompson. As well as relaxing and chatting with everyone, Steven changed from his usual position of striker to becoming a goalkeeper for the night. Many people enjoyed the challenge of ‘Beat the Goalie’.

Refreshments were served in the staffroom. These were complimentary tea or coffee complete with a luxury mince pie or piece of shortbread. This tasty baking had been very kindly donated by ‘McHarg’s’ the Baker.

To finish the evening, Steven drew the raffle and presented the prizes to the delighted winners. The proceeds of the evening went to the PTA funds.

Kilbarchan Primary We celebrated “Children in Need”. by having a “wear your pyjamas to school day” and we also raised a lot of money by selling Pudsey wristbands and key chains, a “guess the bear’s birthday” and much more.

The support of many local companies (including; Divah Salon, Junction Bistro, Bowfield Hotel, Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash Club and the River Inn) is much appreciated. The tremendous work of all of the PTA members is deeply acknowledged.

Depute Head Mr Peter Holsgrove, sincerely thanked the PTA, Steven Thompson and everyone involved who contributed in any way. It was a successful evening, enjoyed by all who came along.

Colin Johnson with Steven Thompson

Photos – Jane Shepherd S6

We raised a splendid £520.60 for “Children in Need”.

Thanks to everyone who helped and donated money. Kilbarchan Primary school has now helped a lot of unfortunate children in the world.

We asked Sarah in Primary 6 what she thought about Children in Need day. She said, “It was fun because we got to wear our pyjamas to school.”

We also asked Mrs Sommerville what she thought about the results. She said, “I’m very proud of all the boys and girls for all their hard work.”

By Rachel Hay, Chloe Lafferty & Brooke Docherty (The Press Team)

Kilbarchan East Tots’ Club Kilbarchan East Tots’ Club resumes on Monday 13th January from 9.15-11.30am in the hall after a lovely Christmas party on 16th December. The club is for children of 3years and under with accompanying adult(s).

Fairtrade - We have recently achieved fairtrade school status, something we have been working at for a year and a quarter. Also, selling the Malawi fairtrade rice has been a great success. We have already sent one child to school by selling ninety bags of rice. Ruairidh Crawford P6 said, “The rice tastes better than normal rice,” and Megan Rooney P6 added, “It’s a great way to raise money for the children in Malawi.”

By the Fairtraders

232_JAN14_44-47 SCHOOLS.ind.indd 45

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46

THE ADVERTIZER

T: 01505 613340

St Columba’s School YouTH Speaks Freddie Gilmour, Billy Hedges and Lawrence Lavizani (all SI) have qualified for the Glasgow District Round of the Rotary Club’s Youth Speaks public speaking competition after their performance in a local heat. All three were commended by the judges for the confidence and fluency displayed in their presentations, as well as the effective teamwork they demonstrated.

Katie Receives Award for Biology Katie Campbell (SVI) was first equal in the Higher Biology examinations.

In recognition of her achievement she received an award from Professor Lesley Yellowlees, President of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

West District Cross Country Rachael Curry, Kim Crawford and Eilidh Gibson won team bronze for Kilbarchan AAC in Kilmarnock Saturday 7th December. They have qualified for the Inter district Cross Country Championship in Edinburgh, January 2014.

Entrance Assessments – 2014 2015

West District Cross Country (Kilbarchan CC) Community Classes

Assessments for entry to Junior School will be held on 9th & 10th January and for Senior School (from Transitus (J7) – SeniorVI) on 11th January. Prep assessments are 16th & 17th January. Please call Junior School on 01505 872768 or Senior School on 01505 872238 for full application details or visit the School website www.st-columbas. org

A new session of community will begin on January 28th 2014 and will include Art, Bridge , Chinese and Spanish. Please see the school website for full details. www.st-columbas.org

Houston Primary What a marvellous array of festive shows for the whole school and parents.

Primary 1 performed ‘Whoops a Daisy Angel’. ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ was acted out by Primary 2 and Primary 3 put on ‘The Stars are Coming out for Christmas.’ Junior choir (P4/5) conducted and accompanied by Mrs Farquhar and Mrs Hey sang a beautiful collection of Carols.

The nursery classes danced and sang excerpts from their favourite stories and even sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star in French. The children also enjoyed a special visit from Santa.

The Senior Choir conducted and accompanied by Miss Kyle and Mrs Anderson told the story of Christmas through carols and followed this with a selection of Christmas favourites. The Primary 7 woodwind ensemble conducted by Mr Russell performed Christmas music and the hand bell ringers, conducted by Mrs Ballantyne performed four lovely pieces.

The Primary 7 Technology Challenge was judged this year by Mr Jim Murray, design manager with Brookfield Multiplex, Mr Stephen Wilson, Faculty Head, Business Studies and computing in Gryffe High School and Miss David, Principal Teacher in Kirkhill, East Renfrewshire. The judges had a difficult job as all models were completed to a very high standard.

Congratulations to Team 2 who were declared the overall winners.

Everyone who took part was awarded a medal.

Happy New Year to everyone!

By Rowan Johnson, Katie Harrison and Laura Workman

232_JAN14_44-47 SCHOOLS.ind.indd 46

E: INFO@ADVERTIZER.CO.UK

Kidston Kids We had another Emergency at Kidston Kids in Kilmacolm in November when the Fire Engine, the Community Police and the Road Safety Officers all turned up on the same week! The children had a brilliant time climbing inside the fire engine, trying out the hoses and dressing up in the Uniforms!

Many Thanks to Max’s Daddy and the team from Port Glasgow Fire Station, to Kirsty our Community Police Officer and the Road Safety Team for visiting us and making our week so exciting!

Visit our website www.kidstonkids. co.uk or pop in and see us. Our term begins again on Monday 6th January 2014.

New Baby and Toddler Soft Play Session at Kidston Kids - Thanks to funding from the Big Lottery Communities and Families Fund and the Coop Community Grant, our new afternoon sessions will start in January. Our Baby and Toddler Soft Play session will begin on Monday 13th January 2014 at 1.15pm-2.15pm.

St Stephen’s High School Speaking to an audience of about 100 people was no problem for the S3 pupils from teams representing schools from Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire and Renfrewshire who recently took part in the Grand Final Speech Competition held in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew. The six teams represented the winners and runner ups from their local authority area competition namely St Stephen’s and Notre Dame High Schools, Mearns Castle and Woodfarm High Schools and Paisley Grammar School and St Andrew’s Academy respectively.

The winning team from St Stephen’s High School, Port Glasgow chose to speak on the theme of: Is 16 too early for young people to get the vote?

The St Stephen’s team pictured was Fiona Spence-Chairperson; proudly holding the John Richardson Quaich Trophy, in the back ground is their teacher Iain MacGillivray, Main Speaker Lee Thompson and Voter of Thanks Ainslee McDade who is holding the Ice Wedge Trophy their team won in the Inverclyde Area Heat.

The Grand Final runners up were the team from Mearns Castle High School, East Renfrewshire who also spoke on this theme and pictured are Chairperson Scott Miller, Voter of Thanks Callum Russell and Main Speaker Claudia Marcuson.

All the participants were presented with a gift voucher. The prize giving was undertaken by Robert Lamb, Inverclyde Enterprise Development Officer who said that young people were achieving well in academia.

Life was getting tougher and that more people were taking programmes to develop skills that employers were looking for. The teams were role models for their schools; they demonstrated immense self-control, were a credit to their schools and families and could look forward to a bright future. The panel of judges was made up of chief judge Hunter Wilson from Renfrew Speakers Club, Christine Reilly from Giffnock Speakers Club and Jim Sorley from Greenock Speakers Club.

The final competition had also been superbly organised by Bill Leeming, President of Renfrew Speakers Club who had also acted as the event Chairman. He thanked all who had helped to make it such a success including sponsorship from Hewlett-Packard. Bibby Financial Services, The Royal Bank of Scotland, Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce and the local authorities.

18/12/2013 12:02:58

WWW.ADVERTIZER.CO.UK

J A N U A R Y 2 0 14

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Abbey Nursery Welcome parents to a wonderful New Year and hopefully one that is full of fun along the way. We have another exciting year planned for the nursery with new topics to explore over the coming months and a host of activities and trips planned for when the weather gets a little in Springtime.

In January we have our annual Open Day and would encourage prospective parents to come along and meet the staff if thinking about childcare anytime soon. Whilst we only have limited space in the Little ladybirds at the moment, we are taking bookings for the waiting list now so please don’t leave it until the last minute as we would not wish to disappoint.

Within our baby room in Woodlands Nursery we Finally, just touching have been celebrating Christmas in style. We on a couple of events have been learning Christmas songs, dances and last year, please see creating wonderful Christmas creations to take a lovely picture of the home to our families. We all particularly enjoyed children’s nativity which our Christmas party on the 7th December and I hope you all enjoyed. loved the surprise visit from Santa, thank you to We would also like to everyone who came along. We would also like thank all the parents to say a big welcome to Amanda Brown who has and family members joined our team since moving from the Tweenie who supported the room. Amanda is looking forward to getting to know all the children and Welly Waddle at parents. nursery in aid of the

Woodlands Nursery

Cot Death Trust and are delighted to let you know that the figure raised was just over £1100 which is an amazing amount of money and will no doubt help this excellent cause.

St Fillan’s Primary Thank you to the children of St Fillan’s for making this a truly beautiful festival of singing and acting. Special thanks to Mrs Cleary and Mrs McKay for all their hard work in preparing the children for this and also to all the teachers and support staff who work tirelessly to make this event run with great success. Thank you, also, to all the parents and parishioners who came to support the children at their in-school performance and also to Father Danny from St Fillan’s Church.

St Columba House Charity - Ogilvie House charity has raised £1,066.45 for their charity which is Lepra. Everyone had a fun time doing an aerobics workout while raising this fantastic amount. Well done to the house captains and vice captains in promoting this charity so well and to parents in supporting their children’s fund raising efforts.

Inter House Challenge - The second Inter House challenge took place this term with the focus on a St Andrew Day quiz. The children are encouraged to enter these challenges to win points for their Houses. Our Scotland Quiz overall winner was Columba House where they gained 50 house points.

Singing Group - Mrs Cleary’s singing group performed at The Paisley Centre to raise money for Ronald McDonald House. The shoppers were thoroughly entertained.

Langbank Playgroup Don’t we look busy?

What a great example of active learning this photograph is!

At Langbank Playgroup, we recently cooked up bird food to help our feathered friends in the garden this winter and it was a lovely time of learning and working together. We mixed up the ingredients and then packed them into old milk containers so a bit of recycling too.

Many thanks also to all who came along to the recent Beetle Drive and helped raise funds; your on-going support is much appreciated. By the time you read this, we will have delivered the Christmas post in the village too. We wish all our families and friends a wonderful 2014.

232_JAN14_44-47 SCHOOLS.ind.indd 47

Our little toddlers in the Tweenie room have also been enjoying various Christmas activities and had fantastic parties too with all their children playing party games, dancing and singing for Santa. The boys and girls are already missing Amanda since she moved to the Baby Room and Amy Grimason has moved to the Tweenie room and is enjoying working with all the staff, parents and children.

Within our Rising fives room the pre school children performed a wonderful nativity show for all their families, and every boy and girl who took part performed with wonderful confidence and enthusiasm, so a very big welldone to all!! The children have also been learning lots of new songs as we have a wonderful new lady in the room called Stephenie Fulton who is getting to know everybody and already feels part of the gang. To support our transitions to primary school we have been taking small groups of children to the local primary schools nativity shows which has been very enjoyable.

Up in Out of School all the children have been creating fabulous creations to decorate their rooms, which are all looking very festive. The children enjoyed a real Christmas disco with a fantastic DJ who kept them all singing and dancing for a full 2 hours. Happy New Year!!

Bridge of Weir Primary We have had a busy and enjoyable winter term, culminating in a series of festive events. From the switching on of the village Christmas lights to our end-of-term service, pupils have sung, danced, recited, partied and fundraised their way to a well-deserved Christmas holiday, while still keeping up with their classwork!

Warm thanks to the Parent Council, who organised our Christmas Fayre, and to all who attended, we raised £1,400! We would like to draw special attention to Lyndsay Turner and Abbey Groves, who sold their handcrafted Scoobies strings bag charms and jewellery, raising more than £100 for a cancer charity close to their hearts.

Our Christmas Celebrations were joy and music-filled events, in which tea-towels and enthusiasm were showcased with gusto.

Every pupil had a part to play: there was still no room at the Inn, and precious little in the school hall, so full was it of proud friends and family.

We will be meeting prospective P1s in the course of infant registration on 15th & 16th January. Towards the end of the month, pupils will be polishing their (ghillie) brogues and fine-tuning their burrs for the traditional P7 Burns’ Supper and our Scottish concert.

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business classified

ADVERTISING

business ad rates:

Trades and Services

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.

MUSIC TUITION

BUSINESS SERVICES

Piano lessons in your own home.

Exam preparation or play for pleasure. All ages and grades welcome. Contact Anne:- 0141 237 3045 or 07840 192517.

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

pets & animalS 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.

232_JAN14_48-51 CLASSIFIED.ind.indd 48

French Tuition

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FROM ONLY £15.84 PER MONTH (incl. VAT & discounts)

18/12/2013 12:54:50

UR ERE 5.84

nts)

sales & wants MISCELLANEOUS

CHILDCARE Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders. P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 873839.

Houston registered childminders.

For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 614925

cOMMERCIAL PROPERTY

HOLIDAY HOMES 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

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

community halls to let

• Bridge of Weir, Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 • Brookfield, Village Hall. Tel: 321031 • Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 613613 • Houston, Compass Centre. Tel: 615441 / 612617 • Kilbarchan, Guide Centre. Tel: 702758.

• Kilbarchan, Old Library Centre. Tel: 706070 • Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre. Tel: 873994 • Kilmacolm, Brownie/Guide Hut. Tel: 873488 • Kilmacolm, Masonic Hall. Tel: 873059 • Linwood Masonic Hall. Tel: 07825 222944 • Quarriers Sommerville Hall. T: 614513 / 612300 • Please add your community hall details to our list - email to info@advertizer.co.uk

councillors RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Ward 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie, Howwood Cllrs John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and Iain McMillan Ward 8 - Johnstone North, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch 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 (P.Glasgow, Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village) Cllrs David Wilson, Jim MacLeod, Stephen McCabe and James McColgan

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Items For Sale Baby Equipment Travel cot with bassinet. Some bedding. Perfect condition. £15. Tel: 0141 577 9985.

Clippasafe Walking Harness and Reins Pink x 3 and Clippasafe Wrist Link Pink, as new, £2 each. Tel 01505 874870.

Stairgate Lindam appr 90 cm wide, VGC. Tel 01505 874870.

Stairgate Lindam appr 130 cm wide, VGC. Tel 01505 874870.

Mamas and Papas Twin Aria double buggy dark brown incl. PVC twin rain cover, two foot muffs and matching baby changing bag. Suitable fr birth. Sell for £35. Tel 01505 874870.

Britax Baby Safe Car Seat black x 2, height adjustable, suitable fr birth until appr. 2 yrs old, 5 point safety harness works with 3-point seat belt, Britax Babysafe Belted Base or Britax Babysafe Isofix Base.

Excellent conditions. £30 each, or £50 for both. Tel 01505 874870.

Mamas and papas cot bed and mattress. VGC. Was used only as a spare in grandparents house. A real bargain at £50.

Tel: 01505 329075.

Beautiful mamas and papas oak nursery furniture package. Like new. Consists of cot bed with mattress, changing unit with drawers and wardrobe. First to see will buy. Cost £1150 Will sell for £325. Tel: 01505 329075.

Blue Gingham fitted cot bed sheet and matching cot bed pillowcase from the Little White Company. Will co-ordinate with any red, white and blue bedding. Excellent condition. £12ono. Tel: 01505 350283.

Adjustable Nursery Fireguard 36”-64”. Exc Cond. £20. Tel: 01505 342978.

Wooden folding highchair.

Exc Cond. £15. Tel: 01505 342978.

Clothes & Shoes Antartex Sheepskin Jacket Ladies, size 18. Grey with grey lining. Good condition.

Mittens included. £50. Tel: 07887 841613.

Antartex Sheepskin Jacket Gents, size 44”. Brown with cream lining. Good condition.

Tel: 07887 841613.

Beautiful real sheepskin ‘Antartex’ jacket. Light beige, size 12.

Worn only once. Cost £375, sell for £175. Excellent condition. Tel: 01505 615668.

Household & Garden Glass top desk. £40. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Double folding bed. Excellent. £80oni. Tel: 01505 328246 C h u r c h P e w s . Te l : 0 7 9 3 9 121239.

Ikea table and 2 chairs. Size 3 0 ” x 4 8 ” £ 2 5 . Te l 0 1 5 0 5 872813 Electrical & Gas Beo centre 2200 record player/ radio with separate speakers excellent condition, also separate cd player available.

Tel: 0141 577 9985 George Foreman Grill...hardly used...£12. Tel: 01505 873130.

Hoover Washer Dryer HSWD166 White 6Kg 1600 spin, perfect working order with instructions.

Will help deliver and install locally if required. £100. Tel: 01505 690824.

Pets Reptile Tank. Beech effect with glass sliding doors & ventilation. UVA light, heat bulb & heat mat included. 1 metre long x 600mm high x 400mm wide. Good condition. £50.

Tel: 01505 347368.

Dog Cage 40” H x 27” W x 16” D, Large. £80 ono. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Large sheepskin red dog coat 36”. £15. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Sports Portugal football team shirt, brand new, boys size age 10, £25. Tel: 0141 577 9985.

Hockey Gloves, small size. £10.

Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Vibrating Plate for sale £100 ono.

BM1500 Power Trainer. Hardly used only one month old. Tel: 07788 135221.

Toys/Games/DVD Leapfrog learning toy £8. Tel 01505 874870.

Mothercare Safari Wooden Activity Cube, new £35 sell for £15.

VGC. Tel 01505 874870.

Thomas & Friends Engine Ride On, new £30 sell for £15. Good condition. Tel 01505 874870.

Mothercare Sunshine Garden My First Ride-On £10. Good condition. Tel. 01505 874870.

Kids Shopping Trolley yellow £8 incl. a red one for free (missing one wheel). Tel 01505 874870.

Bricks trolley, good condition £10.

01505 874870.

Other Items Photo printer (Canon) MG3150 Pixma. £30. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Aerial Amplifier. £10. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Chalk Board £5. Tel: 0141 812 5531.

Sharp QL210 Electric Typewriter. £20. Tel: 01505 612631.

Akai Video Camera & Carry Bag (in need of battery). £30. Tel: 01505 612631.

Sharp Electronic Printing Calculator. Like new and complete with printing rolls. Buyer collects. £30. Tel: 01505 612822.

Pavo Rollmaster Trimmer - Cuts up to 12 pages - as new. £10.

Tel : 07913 481101.

Deluxe Paper Trimmer, As new. £10. Tel: 07913 481101.

Card Making Kit. Assorted papers - gold and metallic card.

Craft box with assortment of decorative attachmentsribbons-glitter-punches etc. gold/sliver mesh. Stamps.

30 sheets assorted peel offs. £20. Tel: 07913 481101.

Roof Bars for Rover 25. £10. Tel: 01505 690331.

Professional three flash head light set with accessories.

One owner, excellent condition. £300. No cheques. Tel: 01505 346791.

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.

Reebok steps, either the old type green ones with separate risers or the newer black/grey ones. Tel: 01505 612414 or 07505 126416.

Pottery kiln with controller, electric potters wheel and related tools. Must be in decent usable or repairable condition. Happy to pay a reasonable price and collect. Call James on 01505 690824 or 07940 381234.

49 49

DEADLINES If you want something placed in the next issue either send an email to:

info@advertizer.co.uk or call the office:

01505 613340 (24hr ans)

FRIDAY 17 JAN

FEBRUARY ‘14 ISSUE: • Deadline: 17th Jan • Delivery: 31st Jan MARCH ‘14 ISSUE: • Deadline: 14th Feb • Delivery: 28th Feb 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: 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.

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 7pm (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. houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.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

18/12/2013 12:54:56

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business directory by category

Advertizers - A to Z

Accountants & Financial

Driving Instructors

Home Improvements

Affluent Financial Planning . . 20 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 21 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1

Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 10 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 Top Kat Driving . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Howe Joinery & Building Serv . . 13,2

Architectural Services

Electricians Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Delta Electrical Services . . 8 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 9 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 31 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 6 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 5

BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 8 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10

Auctioneers & Valuers Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 12

Automotive Services Accident Repair Centre . . . . . 24 Bouverie Motors . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 25 J B Coachworks Ltd . . . . . . . . . 25 Star Garage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Bathrooms Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 9

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 5 The Iron House . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Craig Joinery Services . . . . . 3 DLN Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Frontline Building Maintenance . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 2 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 10 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 33 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 5 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45

Business Services MacLennan Secretarial Services . . 18

Care Services & Homes Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6

Childcare Abbey Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 6 Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 6

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 35

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20

Driveways A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 5

Firewood & Logs Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 2 Firewood Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Framing Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10

Funeral Services Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 15 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 13

Garage Doors & Gates Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 40 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 40 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 40 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 38 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 39 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38 West of Scotland Landscape . . 39

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 18 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 10 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 5 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 4 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 34 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 35

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 34 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 41 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 18 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 32 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 12 Recover Sports Therapy . . . . . 43 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Home Hardware First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 16,17 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4

Home Interiors

Home Security Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 35

Joiners DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Howe Joinery & Building Serv . . 13,2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 30 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 33 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 5 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 33

Kilt & Dress Hire Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 5

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 9 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Howe Joinery & Building Serv . . 13,2 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4

Leisure & Recreation Natalie Wallace Dance School . . 11 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 43

Locksmiths

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 10 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 4 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Property Management DLN Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Property, Sales & Let Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 18 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 20 House For Sale ElmbankLangbank . . 7 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 4 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Restaurant & Bars River Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26,27

Retail Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 16,17 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 5

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 3 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 2 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 10 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 33 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 5 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45

Solicitors Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 20 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

Special Occasions ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Taxis & Minicoach hire

Painters & Decorators

Tiling

Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 6 Frontline Building Maintenance . . 15 Gary Forbes Painter Decorator . . 8 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 8 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Pet Services & Training Auntie Jacquie’s Dog Grooming . . 36 Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Pet Portraits for Animal Lover . . 37 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 37 Take the Lead . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 3 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 8 Frontline Building Maintenance . . 15 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 2

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 18 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 23 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 13 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Stickytiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Travel Agents Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 1

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 38 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 39 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 5 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 5

Windows, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

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 Gryffe 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.

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@ease Removals & Transport . . 4 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 40 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 5 Abbey Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Accident Repair Centre . . . . . 24 Affluent Financial Planning . . 20 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 10 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 34 Auntie Jacquie’s Dog Grooming . . 36 Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 35 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bouverie Motors . . . . . . . . . . . 23 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 8 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 35 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 3 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 9 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 18 Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 2 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 8 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 31 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 6 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 41 Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 18 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 12 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 10 Craig Joinery Services . . . . . 3 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 40 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 20 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Delta Electrical Services . . 8 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 5 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 DLN Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 40 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 4 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 18 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 21 Firewood Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Frontline Building Maintenance . . 15 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Gary Forbes Painter Decorator . . 8 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 16,17 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 38 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 13 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 25

Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 5 House For Sale ElmbankLangbank . . 7 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3 Howe Joinery & Building Serv . . 13,2 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 10 J B Coachworks Ltd . . . . . . . . . 25 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 8 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 5 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 13 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 23 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 32 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 2 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 4 MacLennan Secretarial Services . . 18 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 5 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 10 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 30 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 5 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4 Natalie Wallace Dance School . . 11 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 35 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 12 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 6 Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 6 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 Pet Portraits for Animal Lover . . 37 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 39 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 39 Recover Sports Therapy . . . . . 43 River Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26,27 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 37 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 33 Star Garage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 Stickytiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 43 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 5 Take the Lead . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 5 The Iron House . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45 Top Kat Driving . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 1 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38 West of Scotland Landscape . . 39 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 33

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.

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church lists BRIDGE OF WEIR 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; 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. Hearing aid loop system. All welcome. www. stmacharsranfurlychurch.org.uk 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 615641.

ELDERSLIE

Elderslie Kirk, Main Road, Elderslie: Sunday service every week at 11am. Minister - Rev Robin Allison. All welcome. Weekly meetings:- Monday Club every week from 12noon - 2.30pm.

Light lunch and a varied activity programme. Midweek Fellowship will meet every Wednesday from 10.30am for Tea & Coffee followed by a short Service of Worship at 11am. All Welcome.

HOUSTON

Houston Baptist Church at Carrick Centre; 11am Family services with SS for children age 5-12; 6pm Eve Service; Mid-week Home Bible Study; For more information contact; Rev D Snelson 01505 612722.

Houston and Killellan Kirk www. houstonkirk.org 29th Dec 11am Last Morning Worship Service of 2013. 2014: 5th Jan 11am First Morning Worship of the New Year,

12th Jan 11am Morning Worship, 19th Jan 11am Morning Worship The Sacrament of Baptism, 26th Jan 9.45am Early Service, 11am Morning Worship, 2nd Feb 9.45am Early Service; The Sacrament of Holy Communion, 11am Morning Worship, 9th Feb 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 9am - 9.30am every 3rd 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: TuesSat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm.

Reconciliation: Sat 10-10.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.308pm. 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, Sunday Service will start at 10am and there will be a prayer meeting at 3 Bowfield Way on Fridays at 7.30pm.

KILBARCHAN

Kilbarchan West Parish Church – Minister – Rev Arthur Sherratt BD. Sunday Worship at 11am. Crèche, Junior Church and FEWsion meet from 10.45am. All are welcome for tea & coffee in the hall after worship. The Midweek Fellowship on Wednesdays at 10.30am in the Session House. Come and join us for tea, chat and a short informal act of worship.

Kilbarchan East Church. Services begin on Sun 5th Jan with a joint service in the East Church at 11am, followed by the Sacrament of Holy

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Communion, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. Sunday School and Bible Class recommence on Sun 12th although’ the crèche will be available in the hall from 10.45am on 5th. All are welcome to join with us at every service.

All donations for the The Bible Class are for Mary’s Meals.

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

LANGBANK

Langbank Parish Church - Rev Andrew McLean. Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Creche and young people’s group, the Welcomers.

Tea/coffee after the service. The Church service starts at 10am.

Come along and meet in the Hall from 9.50am. Charity registered in Scotland, No SC015085.

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 6.30pm-7.30pm.

QUARRIERS

Mount Zion Church, Rev Andy Lunn Bsc. 10.30am in Bethesda, Junior Church and Bible Class.

Where there’s a Weir there’s a Way....

Glasgow based design company ‘Eat Haggis’ are delighted to announce that they have teamed up with the ‘Tom Weir Stature Campaign’ to release a brand new t-shirt and limited edition print celebrating everyone’s favourite bobble hatted hill walker.

The ‘Tom Weir Statue Campaign’ is aiming to raise around £50,000 for the creation of a bespoke sculpture of the late Scottish climber and much loved TV presenter. December 2014 would have been Tom’s centenary and the campaign would love to earmark this date with the installation of the statue near to where Tom lived in the National Park. The one year countdown begins on the 29th December.

The campaign is led by a team of volunteers including Susan Taylor. For more information and to stay updated on the campaign then please visit their website - https://www.facebook. com/tomweirmemorial Tom was best known for his long-running STV show Weir’s Way, in which he wandered the hills, villages and glens of Scotland meeting its people, exploring its landscape and passing on interesting facts about its history in his soft gentile way as well as his trademark woolly red hat and fair-isle jumper.

About the Print and T-Shirt

Both the print and the t-shirt have a simplified illustration of Tom’s gentile smiling face adorned by his trademark red bobbled hat with white pompom. The Print is a full colour digital archival print produced by the print experts at the Glasgow Print Studio and the t-shirt is a white hand pulled screen printed on a high quality red cotton short sleeved t-shirt in various sizes. Both print and T-shirt come with a slogan Allistair created for the project, “Where there’s a Weir, there’s a way.”

For further information see www. eathaggis.com

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E: INFO@ADVERTIZER.CO.UK

January 2014

T: 01505 613340

No.232 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

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