279 December 2017 - Gryffe Advertizer

December 2017

FRE CO E PY

No.279 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

Gibb Stuart Window display by Chloe McGinn

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No. 279

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December 2017

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Get in Contact The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN t: 01505 613340 m: 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk w: www.advertizer.co.uk @GryffeAds Open Tuesday to Thursday 9am-4:30pm; Friday 9am-12:30pm All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.

Contents local news....................8-13 optical blog.......................10 dental blog........................11 what’s on........................14-23 tech.................24-31 finance & tech................. financial blog.........................24 I T b l o g . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 legal blog......................26 local history......................28 on the road.....................31 pet news.....................32-33 pet blog............................32

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outdoors........................36-41 village news....................42-53 school news.................54-59 sport news....................60-63 sporting blog.....................63 business classified..............64 church listings....................65 sales & wants......................66 advertizer directory................67 deadlines dates...................67 pick up a copy..................67

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December’s Tips for Keeping your home warm and cosy As the December weather starts to bite and there is less daylight, we need lights on for longer periods as the nights get darker. Don’t forget to turn them off. £15 per year can be saved by turning off lights when not in use. If the average household replaced all of their remaining old-fashioned bulbs with CFLs, and all of their halogens with LEDs, it would save about £35 a year on bills. Also and importantly don’t forget to wrap up warm at home – put on that extra jumper and make sure your curtains are closed to keep the heat in your rooms. For more home energy information and advice contact LEAP Energy Team on 01505 842530/612034, or email info@myleapproject.org.

Help us keep you & the local area moving this winter. Follow us on facebook & twitter @GryffeRoadwatch and if you spot or know of any road works, flooding, ice or blockages let us know!

You can send us a message via facebook or twitter or post a wee comment on Gryffe Roadwatch or The Advertizer’s page.

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ThisMonth Early days.....

You may be thinking that this issue is awfy early through your doors. It is a wee bit earlier than our usual delivery, but we need to bring the schedule forward to accommodate the Christmas shutdown at our commercial printer. Our January 2018 issue has to be printed before Christmas which means an early deadline of Friday 8th December, so please send in your news etc in plenty of time. The January issue will be delivered between Boxing Day and Hogmanay.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

I love my drive home these days. I pass the wonderful window displays at Gibb Stuart’s which are once again a joy to see. Sandy, Christine and the Gibb Stuart elves go to great efforts every year to create a visual extravaganza to brighten up the dark winter evenings. I love it when I see the children who stop to look at the windows, and it helps get me in the Christmas mood!

Santa’s Sleigh will be doing the rounds again, weather permitting! We’ve got the dates for you, and there will be updates on Facebook if the weather proves difficult. Local groups get involved in helping out on each night, and their benefit is that they get to keep the funds raised on the evening they go out.

Thanks again to all the volunteers who make this happen, and thank you for the generous donations from you all. The Christmas lights are going on in all the villages, many with a very special visitor doing the honours!

Road rage.....

When oh when is the Council going to fix the bollards on the island as you leave Bridge of Weir towards Kilmacolm? The bollards have been hit so many times that there is absolutely no reflective warning. Dark nights combined with rain make it almost invisible and I’ve spoken to a number of people who have nearly come a cropper! I’ve reported it, so here’s hoping it gets fixed before someone gets hurt.

Missing you.....

Life throws up some strange co-incidences - a lovely wee dog was found in Kilmacolm last month. Two good Samaritans, Lewis Mcdonnell and Moira Crichton managed the actual ‘capture’ and brought her to me to try to find the owner. Through my facebook post, Irene Whiteside of Harvey’s Army Scotland got in touch. As Irene arrived at our house to check the dog, we saw a man walking very quickly with a dog lead but no dog. Aha! Are you looking for a dog I say, yes I am he says. Unfortunately, not the same dog, but while he’s there, Irene says give me your details and we’ll see what we can do. As they are talking, I see a post from Sheila Gillespie saying her daughter has just found a dog. Turns out this is the dog the man is looking for. So at least one wee dog got home safe and sound that night.

This was during the period around 5th November when lots of fireworks were being set off. Going by facebook it was the busiest weekend for runaway dogs and cats - the local rescue saints were run off their feet trying to re-unite these wee souls. One thing that makes life so much easier is an up to date chip please make sure your pet has been chipped and that the details are correct.

The wee dog we found was chipped but as her owner’s phone number had not been updated, it took more than 24 hours to reunite them. Funnily enough we achieved this through facebook with someone seeing my post and also the owner’s post, and put us in touch with each other.

A great result! A wee dog absolutely delighted to see her dad and away home safely. I would like to say thanks to everyone for their help in reposting and passing on information.

Happy Christmas to you all, from all of us at The Advertizer!

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Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up?

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Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

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

We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can ďŹ x it.

Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt and he services the Wider Gryffe area. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Peter a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

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Bridge of Weir Guides get to grips with Upcycling Twenty-one of the 1st Bridge of Weir Guides took part in LEAP and ReMode’s sock workshop in November, upcycling their old socks into something new to use. They created and personalised mobile phone covers, got to practice their hand stitching and sewing skills and learned more about preventing old and used garments such as socks from going into landďŹ ll.

Pictured here are the guide group showing their new mobile sock covers and some of the sample covers they Upcycled Socks to Mobile phone covers created.

Bridge of Weir Girl Guides Group

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Get free, confidential and impartial advice now Take a look at this list...is there anything on here that you’re worried about right now?

• Food • Legal issues • Money and debt • Energy bills • Consumer issues • Welfare benefits • Health • Housing Maybe you are in a crisis or emergency situation and you need help urgently?

There are people here in Renfrewshire who can help, and the easiest way to reach them is to phone Advice Renfrewshire.

Call us now on FREEPHONE 0808 164 2922 Our advice is local, free, confidential and impartial.

Bookbug Sessions Free Story, Song and Rhyme Sessions for babies, toddlers, pre-school children and their families.

To find details of your nearest Bookbug Session, please visit www.scottishbooktrust.com/bookbug

Songs, rhymes, rhythm and movement! Free, friendly and fun for children aged up to four and their parents. No need to book, just drop in! Find a session near you in one of our libraries.

Bishopton Library Every second Thursday. 10-10.30am and 11-11.30am

Bridge of Weir Library Every second Thursday, 10-10.30am

Erskine Library Every Monday, 9.45-10.15am (babies and children up to 15 months) and 10.45-11.15am (children from 15months to 4 years)

Johnstone Library Every Wednesday, 9.15am (toddler group), 10.00am (toddler group), 10.50am (baby group), 11.20am (baby group) Every Friday, 10am-10.30am.

Every Saturday, 2.30-3pm

Kilmacolm Library

New Chair at Hypnotherapy Foundation Congratulations to Mo Ferrington on being appointed Chair of the Scottish Hypnotherapy Foundation. At the recent AGM Mo was elected as the new chair, with Melanie Phillips as new Secretary and Caroline Meikle as new Treasurer. Alison Bruce and Dr Fiona McLoud have remained in post with Heather Hutchison ratified as the Member Services Director.

The Scottish Hypnotherapy Foundation aims to raise the standard of Hypnotherapy in Scotland through providing a gateway to Regulated Hypnotherapy Services to the people of Scotland and to provide an excellent professional body to therapists working in Scotland. For more information click on http://scottishtherapy.co.uk/

Every Thursday, 11-11.40am. (t: 01475 715621)

Linwood Library Every Thursday, 2-2.30pm. Every Saturday, 10.30-11am

Lochwinnoch Library Every Tuesday, 9.30-9.55am (baby group from birth to 18 months). Doors open 9.20am, 10.30-11am (toddler group from 18 months to 4 years).

Paisley Central Library Every Monday, 10.15-10.45am (baby group from birth to 18 months) and 11.15-11.45am (toddler group from ages 18 months to 4 years).

Port Glasgow Library Every Friday, 10-10.40am and 11-11.40am. (t: 01475 715629)

Renfrew Library Every Tuesday, 9.15 - 9.40am, 9.50 -10.15am and 10.25 - 10.50am

St Columba Junior School, Kilmacolm Every Friday, 9.30-10am. (t: 01505 872768)

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The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2017 Saturday 2 December at 7pm - Lagoon Leisure Centre, Paisley The 15th annual MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards comes to Paisley as it bids for the UK City of Culture title in 2021.

Known as the Folk Oscars, the 2017 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards will showcase and celebrate the very best of Scottish traditional music to folk fans from across the country.

A glittering gala event with performances from some of Scotland’s traditional music luminaries including: The Elephant Sessions, Siobhan Miller, Charlie Stewart - Winner of BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2017, The Shee Big Band and many more.

First started in 2003, The Scots Trad Music Awards generates over 100,000 worldwide public votes from across 16 categories including: Album of The Year, Live Act of the Year, Gaelic Singer of the Year, Event of the Year, Composer of the Year and more.

Tickets are £25.00 - get yours online from Renfrewshire Leisure Box Office; over the phone on 0300 300 1210; or in person from Paisley Arts Centre or InCube Shop The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards will be broadcast live on BBC ALBA and BBC Radio Scotland as well as being available worldwide via www.http://bbc. co.uk/alba.

Join us at the Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow for our annual Ladies Christmas Sparkler Lunch on Sunday 3rd December.

Hosted by the wonderfully entertaining Steve McKenna, you will be assured of a wonderful afternoon of glamour and fun.

Guests will enjoy a sparkling drinks reception whilst Master Magician, Mark Gordon wows with some of his magic. After a delicious three-course lunch, it is time hit the dancefloor for some fun and dance the afternoon away to the magnificent sound of all girl band Feeva.

If you would like any further information for this wonderful fun and glamourous afternoon, please contact the fundraising team at St Vincent’s Hospice on 01505 705635.

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Photography Exhibition 4th December to 13th January - THE BRIDGE, Main St The STUDIO – Bridge of Weir, is proud to announce an exhibition of their work at THE BRIDGE, 65 Main St, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NR. Come along and have a look at the work of 2 local professionals: Andy Stark of www.stark-images.co.uk Al Goold of www.algooldphoto.com/ Your local photography studio caters for all types of photography from a simple passport photo to a family portrait session. We offer 1st Birthday Cake Smash events to professional model portfolios.

New CoStep dance classes in Brookfield Village Hall New dance classes start in Brookfield Village Hall (PA5 8UB) on Thursday Evenings from 11th January.

Our fully equipped professional studio can do the product shots for your business as well as staff photos and head shots to enhance your website presence. We can cover weddings and events, schools and nurseries.

If you can’t come to the studio we can come to you, with our fully mobile studio set up.

Check out our facebook page at www.facebook.com/thestudiobow/

Argentine Tango and Modern Ballroom with some Latin & Swing.

and our web/sales site at thestudiobow.zenfolio.com/

Open to all; join the Beginners class if you have no dance experience, otherwise join the Post-beginners class.

Why not meet the team – one of us will be there every Wednesday and Thursday to tell you more about what we do, we would love to meet you.

Have fun and learn at your own pace. To reserve your place contact us - email brookfield@costep.co or call 07513 046016. For more details visit www.costep. co

Photos & Videos Wanted At the Advertizer, we are always keen to get updates for our website and we’re sure there will be plenty of great photos and videos out there taken by our readers. Plus our readers enjoy looking through the images to see who they recognise, or even if they are there themselves!

We prefer landscape shots for our cover shots so if you would like to see your work featured on our website or even as a cover shot, please send high res images to info@advertizer.co.uk.

Optical Blog

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians

Winter weather and your eyes With the cold weather, most people will be thinking about scarves for the face and neck, gloves for the hands, hats for the head and warm boots for the feet. But what about the eyes?

Cold winter winds and central heating can cause havoc with the eyes, sometimes leaving them very dry, gritty, red and sore. If you’re suffering then you should keep well hydrated, take Omega-3 daily as this can help stimulate tear production, try a room humidifier and use artificial tears. It’s always best to have an eye examination to determine the exact cause of any problems.

Colds and coughs are very common in cold weather - they can be highly contagious and the germs can very easily transfer from the hands to the eyes causing various eye infections. Make sure to wash your hands (and your children’s hands) regularly to minimise the risk of infection.

Don’t put away your sunglasses yet! Summer is when we traditionally think of wearing sunglasses but they are equally important in winter, protecting our eyes from glare, harmful UV reflections from snow and ice and even acting as a barrier to block the cold air and wind. Snowy conditions reflect much more UV radiation into your eyes, so ensure you have proper UV protection especially when enjoying winter sports such as skiing/snowboarding.

Polarised sunglasses are particularly good when driving towards a low sun in wet conditions.

Winter is a good time to have your eyes tested as poor light conditions mean that your eyes have to work harder, making them more likely to feel tired and strained. If you experience any difficulties eg driving in the dark (one of the most common winter complaints) then it’s a good idea to have your eyes checked. There’s almost always something that can be done to help.

For further information, please call us at the practice: 01505 614 700.

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Dental Blog

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

In the lead up to Christmas we thought it might be useful t o highlight some Christmas Gift Ideas as well as to provide some Tips for Looking After Your Teeth over the festive period…

1. Electric Toothbrushes make a great gift - from stocking fillers at less than £20 to main presents (if you choose a state-of-the-art option with pressure indicator and smart phone syncing).

2. Try to avoid too much Dried Fruit over the festive period (it is one of the main ingredients in Christmas Cake and Mince Pies) as it is high in sugar and coats the teeth in a sugary film.

3. Try and eat Nuts or Crudités as a healthier alternative to Crisps and Sweets. Cheese is great too as it helps to neutralise acid.

4. Drink lots of Water and if you do partake in other drinks have them with meals.

5. Brush your Teeth an hour after eating and avoid snacking too much between meals.

6. You may want to consider a course of Teeth Whitening in the lead up to Christmas and the New Year to look your best - this can also make a more imaginative Christmas Gift (initial consultation required).

7. Don’t leave a Visit to the Dentist until the last minute, we get very busy at this time of year and it can be difficult to get an appointment.

8. If you need Emergency/Out of Hours treatment contact NHS 24 on 111.

Most importantly Have A Great Christmas!

From all at Kilbarchan Dental Practice.

If you have any queries about any areas of dental health visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips and advice.

you can contact us @GryffeAds using #Advertizer

or by email info@advertizer.co.uk or phone 01505 613340

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Renfrewshire is Ready for Winter Weather Renfrewshire’s residents are being urged to prepare themselves for the winter weather conditions as the coldest months arrive.

Renfrewshire Council has launched its Ready for Winter campaign and has put in place its normal winter measures to ensure the area will continue to operate fully should there be severe snow, ice, wind or rain.

Welcome funding for Ardgowan Inverclyde Council Leader, Councillor Stephen McCabe, has welcomed grant funding for the new Ardgowan Distillery Company in Inverkip.

The new distillery is set to receive grant support from the Scottish Government’s food processing and manufacturing grants. 15 projects across Scotland will share funding with the Ardgowan Distillery receiving the largest single level of grant at £982,723.04.

More than 800km of road and 1200km miles of pavement will be treated across Renfrewshire with over 4000 tonnes of salt purchased to combat the freezing conditions.

Specialist gritters will be operating on a priority basis to ensure all main bus routes and access routes to schools and emergency services remain available, providing 24 hour cover to deal with the effects of snow and ice.

Residents will also be able to access more than 400 grit bins to tackle roads which are not on essential gritting routes.

The council is also urging everyone to be #RenReady to face the winter weather by preparing in advance to keep their home, business and community safe.

Preparing emergency plans and grab bags for your home, checking weather reports often and having an emergency kit in your car are just a few of the ways which you can stay safe this winter.

For more information on how you can be prepared for severe weather across the winter period visit: HYPERLINK “http:// w w w. r e n f r ew s h i r e . g ov. u k / readyforwinter”www.renfrewshire. gov.uk/readyforwinter

Inverclyde Council Leader, Councillor Stephen McCabe, said: “This grant funding for Ardgowan distillery is very welcome news. It is an exciting project and one which we are seeing from the very beginning to develop Scotland’s newest distillery. The distillery and the associated visitor facilities being within the ground of one of Scotland’s historic estates is sure to be a visitor draw for people from across the UK as well as our many overseas visitors. The work being done at Ardgowan can help to boost Inverclyde’s growing reputation as a visitor location, and the development and growth of the food and drink sector.”

Pictured Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, at the wheel of a gritter.

Flowers by Margo Christmas at Gowanlea Fresh pines, striking reds of poinsettia, the smell of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts pulls together all the attributes of a festive season worth remembering..

Flowers play an important role during the festive period; they can be a perfect memorable gift. Arranging flowers and putting them in a room can uplift the mood and spread a little festive cheer.

We have an array of floral treats and inspiring ideas for Christmas that will make a fabulous gift. Bouquets and arrangements are designed with traditional festive colours of lush greens, vibrant reds, and crisp whites, hints of gold and natural.

Our indoor viewing area will give you a cosy soft lit space to see this years choice of trees.

Our fantastic selection of premium quality trees from the truly traditional Norway Spruce to the modern day Favourite Nordmann Fir not forgetting the gorgeous smell of Fraser Fir - we have a tree fit for every home, so come out of the cold, relax and let our welcoming staff cater to your every need.

Hand making holly and Fir wreaths for over 30 years, with that special touch and care required to make them stand out from the rest.

www.gowanleanurseries.co.uk

Traditional baskets may be adorned with cinnamon bundles reminiscent of mulled wine and cooper coated pine cones to reflect the forest floor in winter. Dusted with a little glitter and tied with festive ribbon they add a rustic charm to any home.

The giving of flowers is representative of the kindness heart at this time of year.

www.flowersbymargo.co.uk We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our loyal customers, a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Open 7 days Tel No. 01505 328921 - Barrochan Road, Johnstone PA5 8YS

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Local Businesses Support Jingle Bell Jog for Ardgowan Hospice Three local businesses have joined forces with Ardgowan Hospice to offer a host of prizes and incentives for people to get involved to make its Jingle Bell Jog extra special this Christmas. Specsavers, Laser Matrix and Sainsbury’s are all offering support for this fantastic festive family event.

Jingle Bell Jog is a 3km walk, run or jog along Greenock Esplanade to raise much needed funds for Ardgowan. Specsavers is motivating participants by offering the top fundraiser a pair of designer glasses complete with lenses worth up to £300. “We are hoping to create some healthy fundraising competition with the chance to win a pair of specs from our fabulous designer collections which include Balmain, Cath Kidston and Converse”, says Lesley Brown, store director at Specsavers in Greenock. The company is also funding t-shirts for every finisher.

Children and laser game fans are also in for a treat if they take part in the Jingle Bell Jog. Laser Matrix, Greenock, is inviting joggers to its venue for refreshments and all joggers will get a 2 for one voucher to use at Laser Matrix at a later date. Sainsbury’s in Kempock Street are also supporting the event by providing goodies for all finishers.

If you are aged 9-18 and play a brass instrument come and join us. Rehearsals take place in St John’s Church Hall, Port Glasgow every Friday from 5pm. Pop in and talk to us or get in touch with us at secretary@riversideyouthband.co.uk

Registration for the event is still open. The standard entry is £10 per adult (16+), £5 per child (5-15) and kids aged 4 and under are free.

All entrants are encouraged to raise a suggested minimum of £30 per person (£15 for under 16s), on top of the registration free, which will cover the cost of the event.

Alex Mula, Fundraising, Ardgowan Hospice says: “We are delighted that we have had so much support from our local corporate partners. We hope that local people will respond to the fantastic incentives and sign up. The esplanade will be transformed by all the joggers having some festive fun and exercise, and all for charity. “ Every £30 raised from this event means Ardgowan can offer two sessions for a recently, or pre-bereaved child or young person with our Child and Family Support service.

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the advertizer Sat 25 - Wed 29 Nov Glasgow Christmas Market George Square, Glasgow 10am to 10pm

Christmas isn’t Christmas without a visit to the traditional markets for a gastronomic treat, a warming glass of festive cheer or a unique festive gift. Offering a wide selection of festive gifts and delicious street food. A warm and welcoming bar will add to the festive atmosphere, offering up a selection of beverages for all to enjoy. The centrepeice of the George Square market is a traditional carousel, the iconic Big Wheel and a whole host of family focused street entertainment.

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until Sat 25 Nov

Sun 26 Nov

Scottish Drawing Competition

Craft Fair

Paisley Museum

Biannual competition open to all artists of Scottish connection by birth or residence. This exhibition showcases the best work from the open submissions. www.paisleyartinstitute.org.uk

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 11am to 3pm

Sat 18 Nov - Fri 1 Dec

Come down for this pre-Christmas Craft Fair by Castle Semple. Think shopping gifts, sweet treats and warm cups of coffee over lochside views.

Crafter yourself? Get in touch about a table. More information online or tel 01505 842 882

Tag a Tree at Finlaystone

Mon 27 Nov

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank

Stargazing Evening

Xmas Tree Tagging! Select and tag your Tree. £5 to put a deposit on your tree. This means you just must pay the usual entry fee. Just head to the visitor centre on arrival. Come back anytime near to Christmas and cut it down to take home.

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 7pm to 9pm

Join us for an evening of astronomical exploration at the new location of Castle Semple this season.

Run by our friends from Coats Observatory Paisley.

Not suitable for under 10’s MORE INFO: Look online and book or tel 01505 842 882

Sat 18 Nov - Sat 6 Jan Edinburgh Christmas Market

Wed 29 Nov

Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh 10am to 10pm

Johnstone HS Christmas Fair

The traditional and romantic Christmas Market in the heart of the City of Edinburgh offers a unique shopping experience for every visitor with its fair of crafters, artists, gift shops and gastronomic surprises. Get into the Christmas spirit! Please note: markets close at 8pm on 24 December, are closed 25 December, open 12pm 26 December and 1 January.

Johnstone High School, Beith Rd, Johnstone PA5 0JN 6pm to 8pm

More than 20 craft stalls, Pamper Stall, Raffle, Tombola, Home Baking, Festive Selfies, Choir Performance. All welcome. Entrance includes tea/coffee & mince pies. Free entry for primary school age pupils

Thu 23 Nov

Thu 30 Nov

Late Night Opening - Gibb Stuart

Late Night Opening - Gibb Stuart Gibb Stuart Hardware, St James Terr, Kilmacolm & Main St Bridge of Weir 9am to 8pm

Need some time for Christmas shopping? We’re open until 8pm on 30th Nov, 7th & 14th Dec in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm stores.

Gibb Stuart Hardware, St James Terr, Kilmacolm & Main St Bridge of Weir 9am to 8pm

Torchlight Parade

Need some time for Christmas shopping? We’re open until 8pm on 23rd Nov, 30th Nov & 7th Dec in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm stores.

Thu 23 - Sat 25 Nov

West End of Glasgow 6pm to 7.30pm This evening celebration of Scotland’s patron saint will take the form of a torchlight parade passing through the main parts of the west end using a rolling road closure. The rolling closure will mean the roads are safe for the procession to walk but will limit any inconvenience to road users. Full details of the event, timings and how to purchase torches at www.westendfestival. co.uk. Vouchers for torches £6 up until 5pm 10 October, £8 after. Non torch £3. Children will get a free glow stick.

A Christmas Carol

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 7pm Kilmacolm Dramatic Society presents an amateur production of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol.

Doors 7pm performance 7.30pm inc. Sat matinee 25 Nov at 2.30pm. Adults £10, U14 £8 Tickets available from the Cross Cafe, Kilmacolm or Rosie Thirdie 01505 873088

Fri 1 Dec A Christmas Concert by the B Flats

Fri 24 Nov - Sun 24 Dec

Houston & Killellan Kirk, Main Street, Houston 7.45pm

Paisley First Winterfest Paisley - various venues

The concert in the Kirk will be a mixture of traditional and less well known Christmas songs with some original arrangements by the founder of the group, Robin Barr. Come along and join in the beginning of Christmas festivities hosted by Houston and Killellan Kirk Scottish Country Dancers. Donations will be gratefully accepted which will be given to our Extension Fund.

Paisley First with M&D Events are bringing a Winter Wonderland to the streets of Paisley town centre this Christmas. Plans include an ice rink, the panoramic Star Flyer ride, continental style market and other family attractions. There will be a free festive Nutcracker Trail with 10 nutcracker kings spread throughout the town. All the details can be found at www.paisleyfirst.com

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december 2017 Fri 1 Dec

Sat 2 Dec

Houston Christmas Fayre & Lights Switch On

Christmas Coffee and Craft Morning

Fox and Hounds, Main Street, Houston

Scout Hall, South Street, Houston 10am to 1pm

Christmas Fayre in the car park of the Fox and Hounds before the Christmas Lights Switch On. There will also be fireworks in the evening. The winning designs from Houston Primary, and St Fillan’s Primary pupils for the new Houston Christmas Lights will be on display on both the Fox and Hounds and the Houston Inn, so please come along that night and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.

Some Hebridean Wildlife and Scenery

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm

David Palmar will deliver an illustrated talk entitled ‘ Some Hebridean Wildlife and Scenery’.

All welcome.

Festive Family Fun Night

30 Dennistoun Rd, Langbank, Port Glasgow PA14 6XH 5.30pm to 7.30pm

Lots of fun for all the family. Followed by the Village Christmas Tree switch-on at 8.15pm in the Church car park.

Festive Family Fun Night

Langbank Parish Church, Main Rd, Langbank 8.15pm

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1st Houston and Crosslee Scouts Christmas Coffee and Craft Morning with new Santa’s grotto.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Christmas Fayre

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 10am to 12noon

There will be many gift stalls and a chance for the children to have their photo taken with Santa.

Lochwinnoch Explorer Group: Christmas Fun RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

Calling all children! Come along and learn about nature, but most importantly, get dirty and have fun doing it! This month we’ll be having some Christmas fun! Come along to find out! Ages: 5 to 14 years. Please note that all children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. Cost: £5 (£3 RSPB members) (adults go free). For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Candlelight Winter Guided Walk

Village Christmas Tree switch-on.

The Second Lochwinnoch Golf Club Tea Dance

Lochwinnoch Golf Club Burnfoot Rd, Lochwinnoch PA12 4ANm 2pm - 4.30pm

In support of Lochwinnoch Dementia Friendly Village. Come and dance, sing and have fun with the fantastic ‘Music Box’ and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea from Janice and her team! The dance is sponsored by one of the Lochwinnoch Golf club life members what a generous and kind gesture! For more info contact Morag on 07868 752814. Free

Sat 2 Dec TnT Bird Ringing Demonstration

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 5pm to 7pm For a truly atmospheric experience, join us at the reserve to walk in candle light! At the end of the route, join us around a camp fire for hot chocolate & toasted marshmallows. Enjoy the reserve in a way that few get to experience! Please book, as places are limited and due to the popularity of this event, please pay at time of booking. Cost: Adults £5 (RSPB members £3); Children £3 (RSPB members £2). For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road nr Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10.30m to 3.30pm

Binocular & Telescope Open Day

A chance to see our native woodland birds up close and literally ‘in the hand’ while they get their identification rings. For more info. tel 01505 614 791 in office hours

Come and peruse a range of telescopes and binoculars, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help you find the right one for you! Our optics are competitively priced, with the added bonus that you are helping conservation. For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 Free

Kilmacolm Primary School Spirit of Christmas Event Kilmacolm Primary School, churchill Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Lots of stalls selling a range of goods. Secret Santa room for the children to buy a present for their mum and dad, tombola, raffle, photo booth, pocket money and tuck shop stall. Tea or coffee and mince pie or shortbread free with the price of the ticket. £8 family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children), adult £2.50 and child £1.50.

Johnstone Christmas Lights Switch-On

Johnstone Town Centre 12pm to 5pm Get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the town.

St Columba’s School Christmas Fayre

St Columba’s School, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm 2pm to 5pm

Free entry, child friendly and fun for all the family including crafts, gifts, Christmas baking, Santa’s Grotto, performances by our Junior Choir and Angel Voices, Christmas films, VR experience, games and surprises. The event will be held in the new Girdwood Building at Senior School - please use the Gryffe Road entrance.

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

Sun 3 Dec Brookfield Xmas Lights switch on Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 5.30pm

Meet at the Village Hall at 5.30pm and join a candlelight procession to the Millennium Garden where our group of village brass players – the Brookfield Brass Necks – will entertain us with some Christmas music prior to the switch-on of the tree lights. Then it’s back to the Hall for some refreshments and a viewing of ‘The Snowman & the Snowdog’ on a giant screen!

Bridge of Weir Messy Church Christingle Service

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 4pm to 6pm

Everyone is welcome, young and old, to come along and make a Christingle, afterwards a short candlelit service with the Christingles. After this, we will be back in the hall for food and a chat. Lots of different people come along and it’s a great way to meet people. Babies and toddlers welcome.

Adults are welcome to come along without a child but not the other way round as we don’t want to lose them! Just turn up on the day. Facebook (Bridge of Weir Messy Church)

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Sun 3 Dec

Mon 4 Dec - Sat 13 Jan

Sat 9 Dec

Sun 10 Dec

St Vincent’s Hospice Annual Christmas Sparkler Ladies Lunch

Photography Exhibition

Christmas Fair - Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Jingle Bell Jog for Ardgowan Hospice

Grand Central Hotel, 99 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3SF

Hosted by the wonderfully entertaining Steve McKenna, you will be assured of a wonderful afternoon of glamour and fun. Enjoy a sparkling drinks reception, Master Magician, Mark Gordon wows with some of his magic, a delicious threecourse lunch, and then it is time hit the dancefloor for some fun and dance the afternoon away to the magnificent sound of all girl band Feeva. If you would like any further information please contact the fundraising team at St Vincent’s Hospice on 01505 705635.

Advent Carol Service

St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm 6pm

With Angel Voices & Voices+ Community Children’s Choir. Come and prepare for the Season before Christmas with this lovely Service on the theme of Light and Darkness through Music, Readings and Advent Carols. Refreshments after the Service.

Gourock Elf Run 2017

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Come along and have a look at the work of 2 local professionals: Andy Stark of www.starkimages.co.uk Al Goold of www.algooldphoto.com/ Check out our facebook page at www.facebook. com/thestudiobow/ and our web/sales site at thestudiobow.zenfolio.com/ Why not meet the team – one of us will be there every Wednesday and Thursday to tell you more about what we do, we would love to meet you.

Prize for the best dressed elf! 1k, 2k, 3k, 4k and 5k runs - just go as far as you can. Entry includes an elf hat and a donation to Dreams Come True Inverclyde. Come and help make more dreams come true! £6 adult, £4 child, £15 family

Bishopton Christmas Tree Light Switch On

Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton 6.15pm

The village Christmas tree lights will be switched on after a carol service that starts at 6.15 pm. There is an open invitation to the local community to join in too. Please note ther car park will be closed to allow the ceremony to take place. It is recommended that motorists should leave their cars at home and walk to the Centre.

It is likely to be cold and those attending should wrap up appropriately.This is a free event. Light refreshments will be available.

Festival Christmas Bingo Night

Royal British Legion, Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 7pm

Doors open 7.00pm for eyes down at 7.30pm, entry £2 at door includes light buffet.

Mon 4 Dec Christmas Lights Switch-on Bridge of Weir

RSPB Lochwinnoch Christmas Trees & Festive Fun!

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

Tinsel 5K Walk

Come along and join us for some exciting Christmas fun. There will be Christmas themed crafts and of course Santa, not to mention real Christmas trees for sale! You can buy your perfect tree surrounded by Christmas spirit, mulled wine & mince pies. You might even manage to pick up that perfect gift. Santa visit: Suggested donation of £5 per gift. For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 11am

Dig out your tinsel for a festive singsong along Lochwinnoch’s local paths. Allow 2 hrs, less if it is wet! For more info. look online or contact Renfrewshire Walking Network

Thu 7 Dec Gibb Stuart Hardware, St James Terr, Kilmacolm & Main St Bridge of Weir 9am to 8pm

Need some time for Christmas shopping? We’re open until 8pm on 7th & 14th Dec in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm stores.

Outlook - Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm With our Minister – Rev Peter McEnhill plus Christmas Tea followed by Carols at the Piano with Sandra.

Fri 8 Dec Advertizer January Deadline

The Advertizer - Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

Sat 9 Dec St Paul’s Church, Johnstone

Masonic Hall, Collier Street, Johnstone 10am to 1pm Grand Christmas Fayre and Coffee Morning There will be many various stalls including a Christmas stall, Toy stall, Sweets stall, Tombola, Toiletries etc.

And of course lots of delicious homebaking. This is always a very popular event, we look forward to seeing you there.

The Kilbarchan Singers Christmas concert

Wed 13 Dec St Columba’s Pipe Band Village Performance Kilmacolm Village Centre 4.30pm

St Columba’s School Pipe Band will spread some festive cheer with a performance in the village centre. Collection in aid of Ardgowan Hospice.

Thu 14 Dec Sòlas Bereavement Group Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm

Kilbarchan Parish Church, Church Street, Kilbarchan 7.pm

7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) with invited guests, The Kilbarchan Parish Church Junior Choir, conducted by Moira Gray. Tickets £8.50 (children free), refreshments included. Tickets available on the door or from choir members.

Brookfield Children’s Xmas Party Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 3pm to 5pm

Fun and games with The Song & Dance Factory and of course, a visit from Santa! Residents are reminded that tickets (£5.00) must be booked in advance – please e-mail brookfieldvpa@gmail. com by Wednesday 29 November with the number of tickets required and confirmation of children’s names/ages.

Sòlas Bereavement Group

Late Night Opening - Gibb Stuart Gibb Stuart Hardware, St James Terr, Kilmacolm & Main St Bridge of Weir 9am to 8pm

Need some time for Christmas shopping? We’re open until 8pm on 30th Nov, 7th & 14th Dec in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm stores.

Sun 17 Dec Brookfield Christmas Carol Service

Christmas Dog Show Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 2pm St John’s Church Hall, Jamaica St, Greenock PA16 8JJ

A celebration of Christmas with the Brookfield Brass Necks leading the carols followed by mince pies and mulled wine.

Join us on Saturday 9th December at 11am at St John’s Church Hall, Jamaica Street, Greenock PA16 8JJ. Royalheart Greyhound Rescue are hosting a fabulous Dog Show with Judge, Denise MacGregor. With categories of Loveliest Lady Dog, Best Rescue, Most Fabulous Fella Dog, Best Party Trick and Festive Dog Fancy Dress, along with craft stalls, gifts, Tombola, this is also a great opportunity for some Christmas shopping.

Doors open at 11am with the first class starting at 11.30am. Admission £2 adults, £1 under 12’s, dogs FREE!

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A fun walk, run or jog along the Greenock Esplanade. Joggers will receive a finisher’s medal and t-shirt for completing the course and will be able to warm up with a hot brew and mince pies at Laser Matrix. Registration is £10 for adults (16+), £5 for kids* (aged 5-15) and under 5s* can jog for free. On top of the registration fee, which only covers costs for the hospice, joggers are asked to raise a suggested minimum of £30 per person (£15 for under 16s). Anyone who wants to take part must register with the hospice, to find out how visit www.ardgowanhospice.org. uk, email fundraising@ardhosp.co.uk or call Alex on 01475 558888. *All under 16s must be

accompanied by an adult.

If you would like anything published in our January ‘18 issue, please email info@advertizer. co.uk or call the office on 01505 613340. Don’t miss out!

Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 6.15pm Bridge of Weir Community Council ‘s Christmas Lights switch-on, and once again we have enhanced our lighting display. Starting with the Carol Service in Freeland Church at 6.15pm followed by the Switch-on of the lights at 7.00pm at Livery where Santa will arrive in style. Light refreshments will be served in the Royal British Legion Club.

In aid of Church Funds and Ardgowan Hospice – Christmas Gifts, Tombola, Home Baking, Brica-Brac and Santa’s Grotto. Tickets £2.50 Santa’s Grotto £2.

Wed 6 Dec

Late Night Opening - Gibb Stuart Gourock centre 11am

Greenock Esplande 10am

Family volunteering

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 3.30pm Family volunteering - volunteer with your children or grandchildren... Who says volunteering is only for grown-ups? Definitely not us. Here’s an opportunity for grown-ups and children to do something practical together in the great outdoors, and to help us Give Nature a Home.

It’s a chance to spend some quality time with the children in your life, and it’s free. For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 Free

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december 2017

Renfrewshire Model Railway Exhibition Johnstone Town Hall, 25 Church Street, Johnstone Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 January Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-4pm Renfrewshire Model Railway Club’s 2018 Exhibition (and our second since the successful re-launch of the event in Nov 2016) will again be in Johnstone Town Hall. The layouts will range from N gauge to G Scale. This Exhibition will be multi-national with layouts depicting scenes from ten different countries.

Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec There will also be an interactive Binocular & Telescope Open Day zone where visitors are permitted to RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch control locos and racing cars.

10am to 4pm Come and peruse a range of telescopes and binoculars, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help you find the right one for you! Our optics are competitively priced, with the added bonus that you are helping conservation. For bookings and further info: Email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 Free

NEVER MISS A THING!

We keep an archive of all the featured blogs and you can view the current or old issues at advertizer.co.uk

Wed 20 Dec St Columba’s School - A Musical Celebration Greenock Town Hall, Cathcart Square, Greenock PA15 1LS 7pm to 9.30pm

Enjoy a magical evening of festive music from pupils of St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm soloists, ensembles, choirs, orchestras and pipe band. There will also be a number of opportunities to join in with some carols. The event is open to the School community in addition to the local and wider community. Tickets cost £10 each and include light refreshments at the interval. A family ticket for four costs £35. Proceeds from the evening will go towards the St Columba’s Foundation. To book visit www.st-columbas.org/ amusicalcelebration, t: 01505 872238 or e: dgallacher@st-columbas.org.

Fri 22 Dec Riverside Youth Band: 6th Annual Christmas Concert Port Glasgow Town Hall, Scarlow Street, Port Glasgow PA14 5EY 7pm

Riverside Youth Band are delighted to welcome you back for our 6th Annual Christmas Concert.

Doors Open at 7:00pm, Starts at 7:30pm. Ticket Price: £5.00* *booking fee applies

Annual Community Nine Lessons and Carols St Fillans Church, Kilmacolm 7pm

Mulled Wine and Mince Pies after the Service.

Wed 27 Dec Brookfield Cheese & Wine

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 2pm

This ever-popular event is the ideal opportunity for residents, visiting family members, friends and neighbours to get together for a really sociable afternoon between Christmas and New Year.

Fri 29 Dec Family Bushcraft Event

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10.30am - 12.30pm

Use traditional fire lighting methods and cook over a campfire. Learn the skills of survival. For more info. Look or book online or tel 01505 842 882 £5 per person

Sun 31 December Hogmanay Dance

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 8.30pm to 1am

Dance the night away and see in the New Year with live band, DIZZY HEIGHTS. Tickets £12.50 (minimum age 16) available from brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com or from any Village Councillor. Bar/ Raffle/Refreshments. £12.50

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every Monday

2nd Wednesday monthly

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

Inverclyde Carers Outreach

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

This event will not take place on public holidays.

FitSteps with Jennifer Quarrier’s Village, 6:30pm

Tel: 07709 340675 for further information

Pilates Class

Kilellan Halls Houston 6.15 - 7.15 & 7.30 - 8.30.

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am - 2pm

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

2nd Thursday monthly Sòlas Bereavement Support Group Kidston Hall. 6.30pm - 8.30pm.

For more information or to book a place call Katie on 07972 474965

3rd Friday monthly

Gryffe Voices Community Choir

Hearing Aid Clinic

Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 8pm to 9.45pm

Join us to sing pop, rock, folk, show tunes, gospel.

Contact gryffevoices@gmail.com

every Tuesday Bishopton Belles Line Dancing

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30 - 8.30pm

Beginner/Improver class. All welcome. Call David or Mair 07886 034037.

Singing for Wellbeing

Bishopton Community Centre 6pm-7.15pm A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs.

every Wednesday Knitting Group

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Skinny Minnies

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7pm - 8pm

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1 - 2pm

Hearing aid batteries and hearing aid checks.

2nd Saturday monthly ‘Brunch & Browse’ St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm

Soups, baking, tea, coffee, books & lots of stalls

last Friday monthly TheTerrace St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall

Soups, sandwiches, tea/coffee, biscuits. £4.

last Saturday monthly Table Top Sale Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Ave 11am - 1pm

This is a free event. Call 01505 328802 for details.

For a healthier, slimmer, more energetic you!

every Thursday Weekly Volunteer Group

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Conser vation Volunteers - adult group.

Newcomers always welcome.

every Friday Singing for Wellbeing

Bishopton Community Centre 2pm - 3.15pm A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs.

every Saturday

1st SAT Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm

1st & 3rd SUN Loch Lomond Shores

10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

Weekly Volunteer Group

2nd THU & last SAT

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

Paisley Cross

every Sunday

2nd SUN

Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm

Weekly Volunteer Group

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 10am - 12noon

Youth Volunteer Group - age 14 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

Houston Litter Crew

Co-op Car Park 10am – 11.45am

All volunteers welcome and all equipment supplied.

2nd & 4th Wednesday

10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217

Kip Marina, Inverkip 11am - 4pm www.kipmarina.co.uk

CALLING ALL BASSES!!

The Kilbarchan Singers Need

BoW Senior Citizens Club Cargill Hall 7 - 9.15pm

Tea, biscuits & a raffle each meeting along with entertainment. Contact Sheila Patterson for further information on 01505 690521.

1st & 3rd Thurs monthly ‘Outlook’ Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 2pm - 4pm

Social activities group for the community in Kilmacolm. Guest speakers, afternoon tea, local issues of interest. Everyone welcome.

Crafty Hobbies Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 7.30pm

No previous craft experience necessary. Call Lorna on 01505 612844 for further details.

regular updates @GryffeAds

We are a friendly, local chamber choir, meeting every Monday.

We perform all sorts of music - from Messiaen to the Messiah, from Orlando Gibbons to The Beatles, from madrigals and folk songs to sacred choral music.

We are looking for all male voices, especially basses.

For more details, ring Joyce on 07960 307569

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december 2017 Paisley First is bringing a Winter Wonderland to the streets of Paisley town centre this Christmas.

The town centre Business Improvement District is working with M&D Events to stage a four week Christmas spectacular in the town.

Plans include an ice rink, the panoramic Star Flyer ride, continental style market and other family attractions as the town looks to attract visitors and shoppers from further afield.

Paisley First are also holding a free festive Nutcracker Trail with 10 nutcracker kings spread throughout the town from Saturday 2nd December until Saturday 16th December.

M&D Events are currently submitting the necessary consent applications to Renfrewshire Council.

If the project gets approval, the Paisley First WonderFest will take place in Paisley town centre from 24th November until Christmas Eve. Paisley First Chairman, Ian Henderson, said: “This will be a great event to showcase everything that Paisley has to offer during the festive season.

“There is so much to see and do in the town already and this will help cement the town’s reputation as a visitor destination.

“We will also be running a Christmas retail campaign; when it comes to festive shopping we have a lot of fantastic independent retailers as well as national chains throughout the town centre.

“And after hitting the shops and enjoying the Christmas entertainment, visitors can take advantage of our many cafes, restaurants and bars.

“This year, Paisley will have Christmas all wrapped up.”

M&D’s Events Director, Douglas Taylor, said: “Paisley already has a rich cultural scene and this type of Christmas event is an ideal addition to the town.

“We are working with Paisley First to ensure this event will be a great attraction for the local community, who will be eligible for discounted rates, as well as visitors from further afield.”

The Nutcracker Trail will see visitors collect special booklets and complete the trail for a chance to win a special WinterFest prize! To mark the end of the Nutcracker Trail, there will also be a special children’s carol concert in the town centre on Saturday 16th December.

All the details of these fabulous Christmas events can be found at www.paisleyfirst.com

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Elderslie Christmas Lights On & Fayre Saturday 25th November, 2pm Fayre, 5pm Raffle, 5.30pm Carols, 6pm Lights switch on The event starts in Elderslie Village hall with 20 stalls & lots of ideas for Christmas gifts.

There will be tea, coffee and juice for the kids being served alongside some delicious home baking & a collection box for Renfrewshire Food Bank. A raffle with prizes from some of the stall holders as well as kind donations from our local businesses Wallace Primary School Choir will lead Carols sung round the tree at 5.30pm before the switch on the lights at 6pm so please come along.

Langbank Festive Family Fun Night & Lights On Friday 1st December 5.30pm to 7.30pm in Langbank Primary School.

Followed by the Village Christmas Tree switch-on at 8.15pm in the Church car park.

Houston Christmas Fayre & Lights Switch On Fox and Hounds, Main Street, Houston Christmas Fayre in the car park of the Fox and Hounds before the Christmas Lights Switch On. There will also be fireworks in the evening. The winning designs from Houston Primary, and St Fillan’s Primary pupils for the new Houston Christmas Lights will be on display on both the Fox and Hounds and the Houston Inn, so please come along that night and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.

Johnstone Christmas Lights Switch-on & Market 1 & 2 December Highlights this year include Santa’s Grotto in Houston Square, St Vincent’s Hospice Christmas Market in Johnstone Town Hall, Stage entertainment, Face-painting and Children’s entertainment. Provost Cameron will switch on the Christmas lights at 5pm.

Don’t forget...Johnstone Business Consortium will also have a Christmas Market 10am-4pm.

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Brookfield Christmas Tree Light Switch On Sunday 3 December from 5.30pm Following the success of last year’s event, this is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Meet at the Village Hall at 5.30pm and join a candlelight procession to the Millennium Garden where our group of village brass players – the Brookfield Brass Necks – will entertain us with some Christmas music prior to the switch-on of the tree lights. Then it’s back to the Hall for some refreshments and a viewing of ‘The Snowman & the Snowdog’ on a giant screen!

Bishopton Christmas Tree Light Switch on Sunday 3rd December 2017 at Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton The village Christmas tree lights will be switched on after a carol service that starts at 6.15 pm within the building. The Christmas tree light switch on ceremony will take place in the Community Centre’s car park, adjacent to the Christmas tree. Song sheets will be distributed for everyone else to join in.

Refreshments will be available.

The Community Centre car park will be closed to allow the ceremony to take place.

It is recommended that motorists should leave their cars at home and walk to the Centre. It is likely to be cold and those attending should wrap up appropriately.

Kilmacolm Christmas Light Switch on Monday 4th December 6pm Santa will be at the Cargill Centre on Lochwinnoch Road for the switch on.

Bridge of Weir Christmas Lights Switch-on Monday 4th December Bridge of Weir Community Council announce that the Christmas Lights Switchon will be on Monday 4th December.

It’s that time of year again when the Community Council organise the Christmas Lights switch-on, and once again we have enhanced our lighting display.

The evening kicks off with the Carol Service in Freeland Church at 6.15pm followed by the Switch-on of the lights at 7pm at Livery where Santa will arrive in style. Light refreshments will be served in the Royal British Legion Club.

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december 2017

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Singing is good for you and our season is short but busy.

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society will be commencing the three month session with the first practice on Tuesday the 9th January 2018 concluding with, on Sunday 18th March 2018, the concert in Paisley Abbey. The programme is Mozart Mass in C and Handel’s Zadok the Priest and The King Shall Rejoice, both shorter pieces but uplifting to sing.

The first practice on 9th January is an open rehearsal and anyone who is interested and would like to sing with us, please come along and try us out.

The rehearsals are held at 7:30 p.m. In Thomas Coats Memorial Church hall, opposite the University of the West of Scotland in High Street, Paisley, finishing at 09:30 p.m. The practices continue on Tuesdays until the 13th March 2018. In addition, there are practices on 5 Fridays commencing 16th February 2018.

If you wish further information this can be obtained from the Secretary on 01505 816110 or coatschoral@btinternet.com.

There is a web page WWW.THOMASCOATSCHORAL.ORG.UK and you can follow us on facebook.

Festive Craft Fayre

Crafters are being sought for a festive fair which will be held in East Fulton Primary School, Linwood on Wednesday 29th November.

Tables can be reserved for £15 and organisers also ask that a raffle prize is donated. For more details call 01505 324851.

Angel Voices and Voices+

Advent Carol Service - Sunday 3rd December at 6pm at St Fillan’s Church Hall, Kilmacolm.

With the Community Children’s Choir, come and prepare for the Season before Christmas with this lovely Service on the theme of Light and Darkness through Music, Readings and Advent Carols. Refreshments after the Service.

Carrick Nights All concerts will take place in the Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston commencing at 8.00pm.

Next Concert in Series - Friday 2nd February 2018 - Alison McNeill & Sacha Savaloni Alison (soprano) and Sacha (guitar) perform a variety of Spanish, Latin American, French, Italian, Contemporary and Scots Song repertoire. They have performed recitals in Spain and throughout Scotland at various prestigious events and are passionate about expanding and enriching the repertoire for voice and guitar and transcribe a lot of music for their performances. ** Due to circumstances out with our control the Barochan Quartet cannot fulfil this date and are replaced by the Kentigern Quartet.

Friday 2nd April 2018 - Kentigern Quartet + Maria Wilson and Accompanist Violinists Barbara Downie and Feargus Hetherington, violist Nicola Boag and cellist Jessica Kerr bring their collective experience in chamber music, working at home and internationally with leading British Orchestras and as educators to this ensemble. Their repertoire includes works by Beethoven, Haydn, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Dvorak, Britten and Ravel. Recent performances include Glasgow cathedral, St Mary’s Cathedral, the BBC Club at City Halls, Renfield St Stephen’s, and the Drake Chamber Series in Glasgow.

Maria Wilson (soprano) runs Starlight Youth Music Theatre group in Paisley. Tonight is her night to perform, come along and enjoy a varied selection of music.

Ticket Prices (single concert): Adults £12, Children/Student £5.

Option to have a meal in our Café at 6.30pm prior to the concerts, but early booking recommended as space is limited. (2 courses £15 – BYOB)

Should you wish more information or to request tickets please call 01505 229597 or e mail thecarrickcentre@gmail.com. We are grateful to Enterprise Music Scotland , through funding provided by Creative Scotland, for their award of a grant to help make these Concerts a reality.

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SAT PACE Theatre Company - Snow White

Greenock Players present Cinderella

Friday 1st – Saturday 2nd December, 2.30pm & 7:30 pm (Check website for times) - Tickets: £8.75 to £10 Join Cinders as she transforms from rags to riches, outwits her very ugly and gruesome sisters, and, with the help of her best friend Buttons and one very magical Fairy Godmother, wins the heart of the dashing Prince Charming.

Brought to you by The Greenock Players and written by Scottish actor, writer and director Eric Potts, Cinderella features all of the ingredients of the perfect pantomime; a fabulous cast and orchestra, laugh-out-loud comedy, spectacular scenery and special effects, beautiful costumes and lots of boos and hisses for all the family to enjoy. Get your tickets now, the clock is ticking! Don’t miss your chance to see Cinderella, the Fairy Godmother of all pantomimes.

Snow White

Friday 8th – Sunday 31st December (Check website for times) - Tickets: £10 to £20 Our 2017 pantomime will be the wickedly funny Snow White. The show will also have a special guest appearance

by CBeebies’ megastar Justin Fletcher as the Magic Mirror, where he will appear as a pre-recorded video

Catherine Wheels Theatre Company presents White

Tuesday 12th – Sunday 17th December (Check website for times) - Tickets £6 Welcome to the beautifully strange world of White. Full of birdsong and birdhouses, it gleams and dazzles and shines in the night.

Two friends look after the birds and make sure the eggs stay safe. We watch, we help.

The world is bright, ordered and white. But high up in the trees, all is not white. Colour appears. First red….then yellow….then blue…. White is a playful, highly visual show for very young children. Age Guidance: 2 – 4 years.

It’s A Wonderful Life

Wednesday 20th - Saturday 23rd December (Check website for times) - Tickets £13 to £15 A Radio Play On Stage by Tony Palermo - Back by popular demand, for its sixth consecutive year, It’s A Wonderful Life is the story of the most inspirational film of all time and a heart-warming American family classic. It’s brought to the stage in a Live Radio Play performed as a 1940s radio broadcast in front of a studio audience. Six actors play 1940s radio actors who in turn portray ALL the characters of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. Featuring live sound effects and live music this performance is a rare opportunity to see how a 1940s radio broadcast was produced.

BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723

25 NOV TO

30

DEC

Paisley Arts Centre - Check website for times (excl. Sundays) Tickets: Prices from £9.50 + bkg fee*

Following on from the huge success of last year’s sell out production of Aladdin, the 2017 PACE Theatre Company’s annual pantomime will be the enchanting tale of Snowhite.

As always we can promise PACE’s trademark blend of original music, audience participation, hilarious comedy, and traditional family fun.

FRI Funbox presents Santa’s Funtastic

8

TO SAT

9 DEC

Factory

Johnstone Town Hall, Friday 8th - 10am, 1pm, 5pm.

Saturday 9th - 11am, 2pm.

Tickets £13+ bkg fee* family ticket £48 (4 persons)**

Gary, Anya and Kevin have been entrusted by the big chap in the red suit himself to help finish the lists for all the boys and girls before Christmas Day, but things aren’t quite going to plan. Santa’s magic machine is playing up creating Christmas chaos, mechanical mayhem and topsy-turvy toys, so it’s up to the Funbox gang to save the day! Funsters Fluffy and Flossie are along for the festive fun, Fairy Fran has some tasty treats to share and Santa’s little helper, Bonzo has been making mischief too.

Packed with singalong favourites like “I Saw Three Ships”, “The Animals went in 2 by 2”, and “Jingle Bells” along with Christmas classics and brand new songs, SANTA’S FANTASTIC FACTORY is festive family fun not to be missed. There’s chances to help on stage and who knows, you might even see Santa… But only if you’ve been good!

FRI The Witches of Paisley

8 TO

Paisley Abbey, 7.30pm (Doors 7.10pm)

The Witches of Paisley tells the tragic story of the trials of 1697 when more than thirty women, men and children SAT were accused by an eleven-year-old girl resulting in the conviction and execution of seven local people for the crime of ‘witchcraft’. Using the drama of opera to bring the DEC tragedy suffered by these people into focus, we draw on some of the greatest music ever written and the poems of Robert Tannahill, Paisley’s ‘weaver poet’, to comment on and describe the characters and events of the trials.

Running time: 85 minutes approximately. No interval.

9

FRI An Evening Tribute to Frank Sinatra

15 DEC

Johnstone Town Hall, 6pm Tickets: £27 + bkg fee*

Join us for dinner at the award-winning Johnstone Town Hall to celebrate the festive season. Your ticket includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, a delicious three course meal and live entertainment from our fantastic Frank Sinatra tribute performance followed by some music from the Big Band era!

If you would like to book for a party of more that 8 people please call 0300 300 1210

SUN Buddy Good Laugh

The traditional Glasgow Christmas Market will take place in St Enoch Square and will attract traders from all over ther world, with a second market at George Square.

There will be two Christmas markets in Glasgow this year at St Enoch Square and George Square.

The main festive market will be operating every day from Thursday 9th November. The much anticipated Christmas Market is to be home to many continental traders from across the globe, bringing a selection of products and flavours, traditional to their origin countries including France, Germany, Spain Italy and many more!

The market is a real Global affair with professional traders from as far afield as Ecuador, Russia and one special visitor all the way from Lapland well the Finnish part of Lapland. Mixed with a huge array of traders from around Europe the Glasgow Christmas market will be a real Global affair.

As well as a gourmets delight, customers can while away an hour or two at the wonderful Gluhwein House operated by Markus Kochems from the Mosel valley. Kochems are listed in the top 100 wine producers in the World. As well as the Gluhwein you can also sample some of bavarias favourite beers at the Bavarian bar. Add all the gifts crafts and very unusual presents to buy and you wont forget your visit to the Glasgow Christmas Market.

The market at George Square will operate from Saturday 25th November.

17 DEC

Paisley Town Hall, 8pm Tickets: £10 (£8 conc / £5 student) + bkg fee*

Paisley’s favourite comedy club returns with a top line-up of hilarious comedians, brought to you by our friends at Dead Sheep Comedy. This gig will feature Raymond Mearns plus a host of other guests. Book early to avoid disappointment.

FRI Christmas Crooners

22

DEC

Paisley Town Hall, 7.30pm Tickets: £17 (£15 conc.) + bkg fee*

Now in its tenth record breaking year, Christmas Crooners is jam packed with festive favourites including the Christmas hits of Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra.

This fantastic cast of West-End Singers, are backed by the superb and talented swing band: The Jazz All-Stars, and they perform over 30 well known Christmas hits.

THUR Festive Family Ceilidh

28

DEC

Paisley Town Hall, 7.30pm Tickets: £8 (£6 conc.) + bkg fee*

Celebrate the end of 2017 at the Festive Family Ceilidh with Clamjamfrie; a traditional evening of Scottish music and ceilidh dancing for everyone to enjoy.

Early booking is recommended. *Please note: a £1 service charge per transaction applies for bookings made by phone or online. There is no service charge for tickets purchased in person or for tickets booked by phone and later collected from the Box Office

Call us on 0300 300 1210 or visit https://boxoffice.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ to book

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Houston 1st - 7th Friday 1st Leman Dr, Leman Gr, Alwyn Ave, Bream Pl, Viking Cres, Cormorant Ave, Forties Rd, Claymore Dr,

Piper Rd, Piper Ave, Ninian Ave, Brent Cres, Murchison Rd, Hutton Ave, Hewett Cres, Dunlin Cres, Berl Ave Saturday 2nd South Mound, Glenartney, St Fillans Dr, Manse Cres, Hargart Rd, Speirs Rd, Glebe Gdns, Four Windings, South St, North St, Fleming Rd, Burnlea Cres, Houstonfield Quad, Houstonfield Rd, Kirk Rd, Kilmacolm Rd, Fields Lane, Cricketfield Lane, Old School House Monday 4th Crosslee Pk, Dunnet Dr, Whirlie Rd, Back o'Hill, Strawberry Fields, Whirlie Dr, Pine Gro, Mill Brae, Crosslee Gdns, Brierie Hills Cres, Brierie Hills Rd, Brierie Lane, Brierie Gdns, Goldenlee View, Brierie Hill Gro, Earlsgate, Brierie Ave Tuesday 5th Crosslee Cres, Leeburn Ave, Craigholme, Woodside, The Beeches, Birch Gro, Riverside, Broomfield, The Meadows, Brackendene, Crossways, Neuk Cres, Neuk Ave Wednesday 6th Locher Cres, Locher Gdns, Locher Ave, Locher Way, Locher Gait, Gryfebank Ave, Gryfewood Cres, Gryfewood Way, Gryfebank Clo, Gryfebank Way, Gryfebank Clo, Cunningham Gdns, Crawford Rd Thursday 7th Netherburn Ave, Netherburn Gdns, Craigburn Ave, Craigburn Pl, Locherburn Pl, Locherburn Ave, Locherburn Gro, Craigburn Cres, Woodburn Pl, Hillside, Hillfoot, Fulton Gdns, Beatrice Gdns

Bridge of Weir 12th - 16th

Friday 8th Upper Kilmacolm Saturday 9th Lower Kilmacolm Churchhill Rd, Myreton Ave, Belmont Rd, Beauly Cres, Cargill Ave, Rannoch Rd, Myreton Ave, Kenmore Rd, Lochwinnoch Rd, Whitelea Rd, Whitelea Cres, Whitelea Ave, Victoria Gdns, Nursery Lane, Nursery Grove, Castlehill Rd, Broomknowe Rd, Carruth Dr, Knockbuckle Rd, Knockbuckle Lane, Millburn Dr, Florence Dr

Sunday 10th Quarriers Village

Tuesday 12th Clevans Rd, Donaldfield Rd, Thornwood Dr, Southbrae Ave, Rosemount Lane, St Andrews Dr, Dalmahoy Cres, Bellisle Cres, Sunningdale Dr, Prieston Rd, Gryffe Rd Wednesday 13th Eldin Pl, Hazelwood Rd, The Grove, Shillingworth Pl, Earl Pl, Ranfurly Rd, The Steadings, Bonar Cres, Watt Lane, Montrose Ter, Kilgraston Rd, Watt Rd, Ranfurly Pl, Bankhead Rd, Kilbarchan Rd Thursday 14th Elm Rd, Loch Rd, Loch Pl, Mill o'Gryffe Rd, Mimosa Rd, Lintwhite Crt, Lintwhite Cres, Moss Rd, Broom Pl, Gryffe Gate, Gorse Cres, St Machars Rd, Hillview Rd, Church Rd Friday 15th Torr Rd, Horsewood Rd, Fetlar Rd, Kennbank Cres, Kennbank Rd, Thriplee Rd, Lomond Cres, Barrcraig Rd, Carruth Rd, Lawmarnock Rd, Lawmarnock Cres, Glen Brae, Troon Dr, Glendentan Rd, Turnberry Dr, Barassie Dr Saturday 16th Glengowan Rd, Strathgryffe Cres, Kilmacolm Rd, Kilallan Ave, Woodside Ave, Warlock Rd, Beech Ave, Castle Rd, Park Rd, Southview Cres, Freeland Dr, Warlock Dr, Houston Rd

Monday 11th Brookfield Santa will set off each night at 6pm and will try to finish each route by 8.30pm. If there are any roads left not done on a night these will be done first

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk on the next night to make sure no area is missed. If the weather is bad, Santa will reschedule if possible for another night.

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IT Blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom

Financial Blog

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd

The new iPhone X has introduced facial recognition as the unlock function to replace the old circular home key and fingerprint reader at the bottom of the screen. New functionality based around the lack of home key, making the phones face a full screen, is quite a remove from what iPhone users may be used to; many Apple followers say it is the first big step away from the foundations of the phone, one of Steve Jobs’ masterpieces. After both Samsung and LG have released a full screen phone earlier in the year, it is unusual for the iPhone to be seen to be slower on the technology uptake than their rivals.

Pension Switching - Things to Consider

The removal of the home key as a finger print reader is one thing, now that the front facing camera takes care of the facial recognition and therefore, the device security function, but the host of other functions that the circle provided are now accessible through side swipes and side buttons that some may find to be less efficient than the tactile button.

Poor investment performance – if your funds consistently underperform, then you may switch to get access to better quality investment funds.

The facial recognition function seems to work well and can discern a photo from a real face, or whether eyes are closed – no unlocking using the sleeping face of the owner is allowed, it also is remarkably quick to perform this highly complex task with apparent ease.

Poor Service – if you go to call centre hell every time you contact your provider, perhaps a switch to a new provider will offer better service

This powerful recognition technology is already being used by security agencies and police departments and will inevitably creep into our lives in some form or another, to facilitate money transactions and to unlock our computers and start our cars. The iPhone X costs £1000, for spending that money we could also consider taking a look at ourselves.

If you have a pension pot with money in it, it is known as a money purchase or defined contribution (DC) pension fund (this is different to a final salary pension fund). Many people change their existing DC pension to a new plan to get better value and this is known as a pension switch. So why would you consider making a pension switch and what issues should you consider?

High costs – many older pension plans have high costs, whereas modern plans have low costs Limited investment choice – many plans fail to offer a wide range of investments that could be more suitable for you.

Simplify your pensions – many people choose to consolidate their pension funds into a single retirement portfolio to provide clarity and coordinate investment strategy.

Pension Freedoms – many older pension plans don’t offer you the full range of options under these new pension reforms, because the original contract as written before the freedoms were thought of.

Future proof against changes – modern pension plans can adapt to future changes in pension legislation, so you don’t need to switch your pension plan again in future.

This information is not financial advice. If you require advice you should consult a professional adviser. The first meeting is normally free and there is no obligation.

Call us for a FREE financial review on 01505 59 50 60 or email info@affluentfp.co.uk. Alternatively, pop into the Affluent office opposite Amaretto restaurant on Main Street, Bridge of Weir. www.affluentfp.co.uk

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Legal Blog

by Isabella McKerrow, Affinity Family Law

The Grounds For Divorce In Scotland Divorce in Scotland is governed by the Divorce (Scotland) Act 1976 as amended by the Family Law Scotland Act 2006. There are only two grounds of divorce.

The first ground is “a recognised gender change of either party to the marriage.”

This is established by issuing an interim gender recognition certificate under the Gender Recognition Act 2004. The second and more common ground is the “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage”. Irretrievable breakdown may be established if at least one of four specific situations is proved: 1. The defender’s adultery.

2. The defender’s unreasonable behaviour. (Such behaviour by the defender that the pursuer cannot reasonably be expected to cohabit with them.)

3. Non cohabitation of the parties for a period of a least one year provided the defender consents to the divorce.

4. Non cohabitation for a period of at least two years. Consent is not required.

It is up to the party raising the divorce proceedings to prove on the balance of probabilities that at least one of the four situations exist.

In terms of adultery, the proceedings must be based on the defenders adultery.

It is not possible for the pursuer to raise the divorce proceedings averring their

own adultery. The adultery must be since the date of marriage.

If you are separated, but not yet divorced, and start a sexual relationship with another person (one act of adultery is sufficient) your spouse would have grounds to raise divorce proceedings on the basis of your adultery.

Divorce can be raised straight away on the basis of adultery or unreasonable behaviour. With the other two grounds, you either have to wait one year from the date of separation and require the consent of your spouse or wait two years from the date of separation, whereby consent is not required.

END POLIO NOW

TIME FOR ROTARY? Joining a Rotary club like Gryffe Valley appeals to a broad spectrum of people – after all it’s fun, there’s fellowship and it’s a great opportunity to put something back into the community.

Some people with busy careers feel that they just don’t have enough free time to join a Rotary club. This is in fact not usually the case because, although there are weekly meetings, attendance is purely optional and involvement in community projects, whilst incredibly valuable, does not necessarily involve a lot of manhours.

One group of people who can be particularly suited to joining a Rotary club are those who have just retired or are just coming up to retirement.

After a busy and challenging career, joining Rotary can provide a great way of building some new friends and colleagues and can provide new challenges and great satisfaction in pursuing projects to support both our local community and communities around the world.

It’s very easy to find out if Rotary is for you. Just contact Peter Dickie (pwdickie@aol.com) and you can come along to few meetings, meet the members and see how we operate. There’s a nice meal at the River Inn and most weeks a really interesting speaker on a very wide range of topics.

Why not give it a try and see if it’s time for you to join in!

World Polio Day was on Wednesday 24th October and the Rotary community in Great Britain and Ireland gathered in London. Rotary had a day of fun events in Trafalgar Square and at the Olympic Park where members from right across the Rotary family joined together to mark the final push to rid the world of polio. This celebration included planting more than 30,000 crocus corms in the park, and Rotary was be joined by Purple4Polio Ambassadors Ade Adepitan and Julia Roberts, along with a host of other guests and Olympic Park volunteers.

There is a lot to celebrate. The Rotary inspired campaign and global immunisation programme has reduced the incidence of polio dramatically.

The world has never been closer to making history and fulfilling Rotary’s goal of a polio-free world with just 11 cases of wild poliovirus worldwide so far this year in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Since Rotary and its partners launched the Global Polio Eradication Initiative nearly 30 years ago, the incidence of polio has plummeted by more than 99.9 percent, from about 350,000 cases a year in 125 countries to just 37 cases in three remaining polio-endemic countries, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria, in 2016.

To sustain this progress and protect all children from polio, Rotary has committed to raising US$50 million per year over the next three years in support of global polio eradication efforts. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match Rotary’s commitment 2:1 so every £1 becomes raised £3. Without full funding and political commitment, this paralysing disease could return to previously polio-free countries, putting children everywhere at risk.

Locally, Gryffe Valley Rotary had its Curry Night at Shafiq’s Shimla Cottage in Bridge of Weir a couple of nights later – an annual event to raise funds for the END POLIO campaign. The £875 raised will be matched 2 for 1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to make a total of £2625!

The club has purchased a further batch of purple crocus to be planted

Address to the Curry by organiser Alan Watt, haggis piped in by Ron Aitchison

in Houston by the Bee Happy group to supplement/ replace those planted last year.

Purple is the colour of the dye placed on the little finger on the left hand of a child to show they have been immunised against polio, hence the name Purple4Polio.

With millions of children to vaccinate, this makes it easier to see who has been protected and who has not.

Tabi Shafiq presents the Star Raffle Prize.

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LOCAL

history

Lime Working down the Black Cart As with the Gryfe, the river valley of the Black Cart was a focal point of the search for coal and lime. From the headwaters of the river in Barr Loch, lime works followed the Black Cart downstream.

At Kerse, the lime and coal works were drained by a pump powered firstly by water, then by a steam engine. South of Barr Loch, lime was worked at Netherhouses. At Limekiln Plantation, near Lochwinnoch, lime quarries survive in a series of tiers downhill. From the 1720s, lime was also worked along both sides of Castle Semple Loch and burnt in kilns by the lochside.

One of the potential benefits of extending the Paisley Canal to Ardrossan was the lime quarries and mines along the proposed route in the Risk area.

The most intensive working of lime was further downstream, where a great ‘basin’ of lime dipped from Howwood to Spateston. A number of small early quarries led to a large scale combined venture in the 1770s, by Houston of Johnstone and McDowall of Castle Semple, at Meikle Corseford. The quarries were drained by a water powered engine driven by the Spateston Burn. More than 30 clamp kilns survive, surrounding the main quarry.

Nearby is the draw kiln at Midtown. By the Victorian period, several large lime works were in operation, connected by tramways to the main railway line.

In the 1720s, several lime quarries preceded the development of the new town of Johnstone. Numerous other quarries and kilns dotted the road to Paisley, from Floors to Newton. Many were developed by Speirs of Elderslie. Near the bottom of the Black Cart in the Linwood area, limestone was mined at various depths in 19th century in conjunction with coal and ironstone. © 2017 Stuart Nisbet, Renfrewshire Local History Forum The Forum’s next archaeology lecture will take place in the Shawl Gallery in Paisley Museum at 7.30 pm on Thursday, 14th December. Our speaker is Professor James Dixon His topic is the Life and Death of the 5300 year old Iceman. Visitors are most welcome to attend.

Gryffe Advertizer - Current & Past Issues

Kilbarchan NovemberDecember 1917 Private Alex McCall ...had been employed at Georgetown at the Ordnance Factory before he was called up on 20th March 1917. He served with the 11th Argylls and was captured by the Germans. His mother heard through the Red Cross that he had died in the prisoner of war hospital at Rethel on November 1st 1917. He is buried at the French National Cemetery at Rethel, 38 kilometres north east of Reims. His mother lived at 5 Church St. Alex was 20 when he died.

Private John C Finlayson ...served in the 1st Camerons, 1st Brigade, 1st Division. He joined the army on 31st August 1916 and qualified on the Lewis Gun. He had attended Paisley Grammar School before becoming a shipping clerk with the Eglington Silicon Brick Company in Glasgow. He had attended the Memorial Hall. He went to France on 6th December and was killed on 18th November 1917 while ‘giving the lads help to get out of a difficulty’. His widowed mother and sisters lived at Viewfield, Kilbarchan. He was 21 when he died and is commemorated at Tynecot, Passchendaele.

Private John Priestley ...was born in Paisley but lived at Fernlea, Brookfield. Initially he trained with the Argylls but was posted to the 8th Cameronians with the 52nd (Lowland) Division in Palestine. He was educated at Camphill School, Paisley and completed his teacher training in Aberdeen. He taught at South Public School and was a member of Kilbarchan U.F. Church. He was torpedoed in the ‘Ivernia’ on his way to Egypt. He was killed on 23rd November 1917 and is remembered at Jerusalem War Cemetery.

Private Caldwell Meiklem ...served with the 1st Battalion of the Scots Guards and was killed in the Battle of Cambrai. In 1911 he was a resident of Pollokshields who had been born in Kilbarchan. The 1905 rates valuation recorded him as having a house and garden in Victoria Road, Brookfield. He was killed on 27th November 1917 and has no known grave. His name is on the Cambrai Memorial at Louverval.

Private William Meikle Mitchell’s ...name is also on the Lochwinnoch war memorial. In the 1911 census it is recorded that he was born in Kilbarchan and was a bank clerk.

He served in the 4th Royal Scots Fusiliers, past of the 52nd (Lowland) Division which served in Gallipoli, Egypt and Palestine before moving to France in 1918. He was 24 when he died on 21st December 1917, has no known grave and is commemorated on the Jerusalem Memorial.

www.advertizer.co.uk/issues

Johnstone History Society Our final meeting for 2017 will be held on December 12th in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30pm . Our speaker for this month will be Catherine Provan from the National Trust Scotland and her subject will be “Tales of the Tenement House” This should prove to be an interesting evening and will no doubt bring back many memories of bygone years. As usual we look forward to a good attendance of members and visitors and all will be made most welcome .

The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30 till 4pm .The Museum is situated in Morrisons at Collier Street end stocks a wide variety of books ,maps and pamphlets which can be purchased in the museum or online at Johnstone history.org any purchases made online can be paid for via PayPal. Our 2018 Johnstone Callander will be available very soon and still at the same price of £7 .

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december 2017

Cheetham & Co joins Martin Aitken & Co

Small firms voice support for VAT simplification

Chartered Accountants Cheetham & Co has joined Martin Aitken & Co Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers with effect from 1 November 2017.

Responding to the publication of the Office of Tax Simplification (OTS)’s ‘Value Added Tax (VAT): Routes to Simplification’ report, Mike Cherry, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman, said:

Cheetham & Co staff have relocated from their offices in Quarriers Village, Bridge of Weir to Martin Aitken & Co’s offices in Glasgow. David Cheetham has joined Martin Aitken & Co as a Director.

The combined firms will have 8 Directors and over 80 staff providing accountancy, tax, corporate finance and business advisory services to SMEs, charities and private individuals across Scotland.

Adrienne Airlie, Chief Executive of Martin Aitken & Co said: “I’m delighted that David and the team from Cheetham & Co have joined us. They share our ethos of building close, mutually beneficial relationships with clients and providing the highest standards of client service. The merger is a good fit for both firms and is another good step forward in our continued growth and expansion”.

David Cheetham commented that he too was delighted with the merger.

The two firms have a great deal of common ground in terms of strategy and culture. The merged firm will further strengthen our offering to the former Cheetham & Co clients by giving them access to specialists in areas such as corporate finance and financial services, where clients require high-level technical support.

“This fundamental review of our vastly complex VAT system is long overdue. Any reduction of the VAT threshold against the current backdrop of unprecedented uncertainty and spiralling costs will have a hugely negative impact on growth within the small business community.

“The OTS is right to address the issue of ‘thresholditis’. It’s equally right to suggest that a smoothing mechanism which doesn’t force any more small firms into the VAT system could encourage more businesses to grow beyond the £85,000 cliff edge.

“Small business owners spend a huge number of hours a year complying with their VAT obligations – hours that should be spent running their firms.

We welcome the report’s flagging of “extraordinary anomalies” within the system and its drive towards improving VAT guidance and reducing the massive admin burdens associated with the tax.

“We wholeheartedly agree with the suggestion that Brexit marks an opportunity to reform this painfully onerous tax over the long term.”

All 7 staff from Cheetham & Co, who have all been with the firm for between 7 and 19 years, have transferred to Martin Aitken & Co giving them greater opportunities for development and progression, and providing clients with continuity of service from the same staff that they have known for years and who know the clients business.

David Cheetham established Cheetham & Co in 1998 and operated as a sole practitioner employing three chartered accountants including himself, a senior tax associate and support staff servicing a mixed portfolio of SME and owner-managed business clients predominantly in the Glasgow & Renfrewshire area.

IMAGE Left-to-Right: Adrienne Airlie, Chief Executive, David Cheetham, Director & Ewen Dyer, Managing Director, Martin Aitken & Co.

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Orchard Flooring Stylish, Durable: A Floor for Life When choosing a new floor for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration.

For a lot of our clients, having a floor that isn’t going to be ruined by mucky feet, paw prints or spills is a top priority. For this reason, light cream carpets can be problematic for many busy households.

Karndean and Amtico flooring are perfect for any room or situation in the home. They are both waterproof, slip resistant and warm underfoot, as well as being a beautiful and luxurious floor to be proud of.

Both are easy to clean and without the porous qualities of wood and some stone. They bring the ageless beauty of natural flooring to your home without the hassle.

Be it a rustic wood effect in the living room or a sleek and modern stone effect in the kitchen, Orchard Flooring can provide expert advice to find the perfect floor for a room.

With a home sampling service why not give us a call and be on your way to a stunning floor from Orchard Flooring.

You can contact Scott on 01505 22 9584 or 07563 633 432 E: sjmproducts@hotmail.com website: www.orchard-flooring.com

Book your Free Home Energy Check with LEAP this Winter What is it?

Your LEAP Home Energy Check is a review of your home energy usage.

Our City and Guilds qualified LEAP Energy Adviser visits you at home at a time convenient for you and asks you some simple questions about your home and your energy usage. It only takes about an hour and can save you money! During the visit the LEAP Energy Advisor will complete a form which is used to design your follow up LEAP Home Action Plan. This is a personalised plan developed by LEAP to advise simple, inexpensive actions you can take to improve your home comfort and energy usage.

What advice will you get from a Home Energy Check?

You will get free and impartial advice on practical measures you could take to help reduce the amount of energy you use. Many measures are free or very low cost and can save you money at the same time. We recognise that everyone’s needs are different and our Energy Advisers create Your LEAP Home Action Plan specifically for your home and circumstances.

How do you arrange a LEAP Home Energy Check?

LEAP Home Energy checks are a free service to all local residents of Lochwinnoch, Bridge of Weir, Kilbarchan, Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield, and Renfrewshire wide - home owners, tenants, landlords and private let tenants can all request a home energy check. For your FREE Home Energy Check phone LEAP on 01505 612034/842530, email info@myleapproject.org, or pop into your nearest LEAP Office at either Advance Place, Bridge of Weir, or 22 Church St, Lochwinnoch.

Help us keep you & the local area moving this winter.

Follow us on facebook & twitter @GryffeRoadwatch and if you spot or know of any road works, flooding, ice or blockages let us know!

You can send us a message via facebook or twitter or post a wee comment on Gryffe Roadwatch or The Advertizer’s page.

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Monte Carlo Historic Rally Get your engines running as 2018 moves up a gear with the first of our great, free towncentre events.

See some stunning cars gather in the beautiful surroundings of Paisley’s Abbey Close before they set off in the rally or on a heritage run.

This is one of THE most historic and treasured events in motor sport and Paisley will host the only UK start leg. An absolute MUST-SEE! Coming to Paisley onWednesday 31 January 2018, starting from Abbey Close, times to be confirmed.

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december 2017

New Barrier Works - M8 Kingston Bridge South

New gateway into Port Glasgow open

As part of Transport Scotland’s strategic trunk road maintenance programme, Scotland TranServ are supervising essential upgrading work to the cope and parapets on the M8 Kingston Bridge South Approaches east and west bound structures.

Work has been completed on the first phase of an Inverclyde Council regeneration project to create a new entrance into Port Glasgow town centre and a new civic space in front of the Town Hall.

Raynesway Construction Ltd are replacing the edge coping, vehicle barriers and expansion joints on the south approach structures, with traffic management implemented on the M8 westbound carriageway.

Works on the M8 eastbound carriageway will start after completion of the M8 westbound works. The eastbound traffic management is scheduled for installation in early December 2017 with the planned overall completion of the works in February 2018.

In order to work as safely and efficiently as possible, it will be necessary to narrow the lanes on the bridge through the work zone with a reduced speed limit of 40mph.

Peter McCann, Scotland TranServ’s Major Bridges Manager said: “The Kingston Bridge and its approaches are now 50 years old and require regular routine maintenance. The crossing is the busiest in Scotland, with more than 100,000 vehicles using this route every day. As such it is an integral part of life and business in the West of Scotland. The South Approach is a complex meeting point and exit of a number of roads heading to various destinations on the south side of the Clyde and beyond.

“We’ve been working in liaison with Police Scotland, Local Authorities and key stakeholders to ensure that this essential improvement work causes as little disruption to commuters, local communities and freight traffic as possible. It is essential work to maintain and upgrade this vital economic artery. Narrowing the lanes will allow our contractors to work as quickly and safely as possible, while maximising the traffic flow.”

Because of the traffic management, delays of up to 20 minutes are to be expected during peak periods.

Mr McCann continued: “Best estimate on potential delays have been forecasted by our specialist traffic flow modeller and we would ask drivers to either allow additional time for their journeys, seek alternative routes or travel times, consider park and ride or switch to public transport. We would advise motorists to always check latest roads information on trafficscotland. org or by following @trafficscotland on Twitter.”

A new spur road has been built off the A8 forming a junction with Shore Street and Princes Street which will allow the stretch of road directly in front of the Town Hall in Shore Street to be closed to traffic to facilitate the new resurfacing. .

Regeneration Convener Councillor Michael McCormick said: “The new road opens up the town centre to traffic directly from the main route in and out of Inverclyde. It should significantly boost existing businesses and attract fresh investment into the area. Providing better connections into the town centre was one of the high priority recommendations of the regeneration master plan for Port Glasgow so I am delighted we are seeing this phase of the project completed before the festive period.” The lower town quarter project which received a Regeneration Capital Grant award from the Scottish Government and COSLA in 2016 also includes the demolition of redundant buildings at the rear of the town hall to create a civic square.”

The new road will have footways on either side and a grass lawn on the site of the present car park. A new hard-landscaped civic space extends over Shore Street from the front of the Town Hall. To make room for the new spur road the existing civic square around the Comet has been reduced..

The project is being delivered on behalf of the Council by the urban regeneration company Riverside Inverclyde. The Port Glasgow town centre master plan was developed in 2014 after speaking extensively with local residents and businesses who identified the need to develop a new gateway to the town centre as a priority for investment.

In addition to the new access into Port Glasgow from the A8 the Port Glasgow regeneration strategy and master plan recommends environmental improvements to the town centre; removal of redundant buildings; the restoration of empty shop units to provide ‘fit for purpose’ retail space and new office and commercial accommodation.

Across South West Scotland, Scotland TranServ is working on behalf of Transport Scotland to prioritise such maintenance and upgrade issues and deliver our improvement programme as quickly and safely as possible.

Andy Fraser, Scotland TranServ’s Operating Company Representative added: “The Kingston Bridge is one of Scotland’s busiest river crossings, with more than 100,000 vehicles using the bridge every day. It is a constant challenge to balance the need to maintain the structure while reducing the impact of our works. Our aim, as always, is to deliver these longterm benefits to commuters, businesses and tourists alike with maximum efficiency and minimal disruption throughout.”

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Rescue Centres

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue › 01505 502415 › www.hessilhead.org.uk Cat Protection › 0141 779 3341 › www.cats.org.uk/glasgowac Dogs Trust Glasgow › 0141 773 5130 › www.dogstrust.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.

Christmas Dog Show Join us on Saturday 9th December at 11am at St John’s Church Hall, Jamaica Street, Greenock PA16 8JJ. Royalheart Greyhound Rescue are hosting a fabulous Dog Show with Judge, Denise MacGregor. With categories of Loveliest Lady Dog, Best Rescue, Most Fabulous Fella Dog, Best Party Trick and Festive Dog Fancy Dress, along with craft stalls, gifts, Tombola, this is also a great opportunity for some Christmas shopping.

Doors open at 11am with the first class starting at 11.30am. Admission £2 adults, £1 under 12’s, dogs FREE!

Pet Blog

by PetVets

Festive Hazards

The Christmas season is a time to celebrate and have fun, but it’s important to remember that there can be some hidden dangers for our four legged friends at this time of year, from toxic foods to poisonous plants and potential foreign bodies.

These include: Chocolate contains theobromine which is toxic to dogs. It can cause gastrointestinal upsets, agitation, excitation, tremors, convulsions and even heart problems.

Christmas pudding and mince pies Dried products such as currants, sultanas and raisins found in puddings and mince pies are also toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of these can cause kidney failure which can be fatal.

Onions can cause vomiting and diarrhoea initially. They can also cause damage to red blood cells leading to anaemia developing several days after ingestion. Similar signs are seen with garlic, leeks, shallots and chives.

Alcohol Initially alcohol can cause dogs to be drowsy and wobbly. This can progress to low body temperature, low blood sugar and coma.

I’m chipped!

As of April last year it became compulsory for dog owners to make sure that their pets are microchipped.

This new law came into effect to help reunited lost or stray dogs with their owners and thankfully most owners have had their pets painlessly implanted with a microchip with their details recorded on a national database. It’s also had the added benefit of allowing local authorities and charities to make annual savings that can be put towards dogs that have no owners at all.

This has been extremely helpful with the recent surge of lost dogs during the past few weeks of firework celebrations.

The law does not presently extend to cats even though the independent nature of cats means that they are more likely to become lost or injured than dogs. Animal charities have called on ministers to extend the new law to cats as well as dogs. Currently, the SSPCA routinely microchips every dog and cat that they rehome.

Your details shouldn’t need to be updated very often. Databases charge a small fee for changing details to cover administration costs. The cost of microchipping is very low, usually around £10-£15, with some places even offering the service for free. This price should include the implant, a qualified technician to fit it and a registration to a reputable microchip database. So to spare the trouble of needing to collect your pet from the pound and a lecture that may come with a cost, it’s worth the time to get your pets microchipped.

Macadamia nuts These can cause lethargy, increased temperature, tremors, lameness and generalised stiffness in dogs.

Christmas plants Many plants that we have in the house at Christmas can also be toxic to our pets. Poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and pine needles can all cause vomiting and diarrhoea. In addition poinsettia can cause irritation to the mouth and hyper salivation, and ivy may cause local skin irritations.

Foreign bodies are inedible materials that are ingested and can cause choking, damage to the gastrointestinal system or obstruction of the stomach or intestine. This can be very serious and may require urgent surgery to remove the foreign body. Things to consider a hazard include Christmas decorations made of plastic, paper or foil, wrapping paper, tissue paper, string and candles.

Have fun this Christmas, but remember to keep an eye on what your furry family members are munching on!

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december 2017 LOST PETS?

Re-homing Pets

If your pet has gone missing and you would like to place a notice in The Advertizer, please call ℓ𧥇þÐœ 01505 613340 or email

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

Lucky & Chester

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Lucky & Chester are looking for their “forever” home together.

These wee ones were found dumped at the side of a road and are still very scared and not very trusting of us humans. They would be best suited to an experienced cat family that have a quiet house, no children “or” other pets and will have the time, patience and understanding that is need to help them settle, come out of their shells and interact with them till they start to trust you.

Genuine offers only please for these kittens.

Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341

Chezza

info@advertizer.co.uk

Lucky & Chester - 16 week old male kittens

Chezza - female Syrian hamster

Chezza is an adorable wee hamster who is looking for a loving new home. She would love her new owner to provide her with a fun new enclosure with plenty of toys and tunnels to keep her entertained and to ensure she gets the exercise she needs.

Chezza is looking for a new owner who will allow her the time she needs to settle in and get used being handled. She would make a great new addition to a family household.

Pete & AJ - male guinea pigs AJ and Pete would need to be homed together as they thrive on each others company. They both love their food and running between the tunnels in their enclosure.

We can also put updates on our website & Facebook. There is no charge for this service!

Any Dog’il Do Rescue *Very Important Plea* Due to a few difficult months at ADDR, it is with a heavy heart that we have to share the news that the rescue is in very serious danger of closing.

As a small completely volunteer run rescue, we rely entirely on donations and fundraising and unfortunately, over the last 6 months, our expenses have massively exceeded the money both raised and donated.

This has been caused by unusually large and unforeseen vet expenses for a few of our special dogs. As followers of the rescue and our gorgeous dogs, you will have seen the stories of Khal and Trevor. Both these beautiful boys required special, and expensive, procedures to get them to the picture of health they are now. Money well spent I’m sure you’ll all agree - but it has taken its toll on our limited funds.

Also, for a few months we have consistently had around 10 dogs in kennels. As we don’t have our own premises or rehoming centre, our kennel expenses can be very high - especially if we cannot find suitable foster (or forever) homes for extended periods of time.

To give you a fuller picture of the last 6 months, our average outgoings have been £2198 - compared with an average amount coming in of £1135.

Pete & AJ

Thankfully a few dogs have secured foster and forever homes this month, so our outgoings should go back to a more manageable level - but the last 6 months have really hit the rescue hard.

AJ and Pete are looking for an owner who will spend sometime interacting with them aswell as allowing them time to do their own thing as guinea pigs enjoy pottering around exploring their enclosure when no one is around.

And now comes the plea! We really need your help. Many of you already support us through either your time volunteering, continued involvement of our fundraising or regular donations - and we really cannot thank you enough.

To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca.org/rehoming

However - to get us through this difficult period, it would be great if ALL our supporters and followers could get on board.

There are a variety of ways in which you can do your part.

Molly - 8+ y/o female Collie Cross (Border) & Casper - 5-7 y/o male Border Collie

Molly

Molly and her best friend Casper are looking for a new home due to their owners ill health.

They are a lovely pair that we would like to rehome together as they have a wonderful bond after spending the last 7 years together.

Molly and Casper have a lovely report from their last home. They can live with children over the age of 14 years. They would happily live with dogs or cats.

Casper and Molly can be left for up to 4 hours at a time but they have been known to bark in the past so the shorter the better. They love to run and play so a garden would be beneficial but not essential. They are looking for an owner that has owned dogs before as an adult.

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

One of which is ‘Sponsor a Kennel Dog’ - setting up a regular monthly payment which contributes to our kennel dogs. We have 6 gorgeous dogs looking for a foster or forever home and all money donated would be used for their kennel costs until that home is found. Unlike other rescues and charities who have salaries etc to pay - as we are volunteers, all money donated to ADDR is for the dogs.

If a monthly donation is too much of a financial commitment - how about a one off contribution. It doesn’t have to break the bank - this page currently has 16,000 followers, even if 10% of you donated as little as £2 each, that would be a massive £3,200. Which would literally double our current bank balance and make such a difference to the rescue and the dogs in our care.

Thank you all for your continued support.

All the team and doggies at ADDR If you would like donate or find out more, please contact Any Dog’il Do Rescue through their Facebook page or visit their website at www.anydogildorescue.org

Casper

Wildlife Crime These officers can be contacted to report crime or to seek advice on wildlife crime matters. Call Police Scotland on 101 to report a wildlife crime or email us at Contactus@scotland.pnn.police.uk .

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The Big Kilbarchan Smile Autumn Clear Up! What’s On December Woodlands The winter light beams down through the trees and makes the waterfall glisten. Wrap up and enjoy the crisp fresh air.

Come and meet our resident Grey Heron living on our pond at the top of the drive. We also have Moorhens and Mallard Ducks.

Some of the Kilbarchan Smile volunteers are pictured with ready for action at the beginning of the session.

Kilbarchan Smile is all about making Kilbarchan a better place to live, work and visit by getting involved. “The Big Kilbarchan Smile Autumn Clear Up” in October brought together more than 20 volunteers for an afternoon with around 40 sacks of rubbish collected!

Damon Scott, Chair of the Group, said: “The enthusiasm and commitment from our volunteers is a real credit to the village. It was a fantastic effort.

Hopefully the kids that took part will learn the importance of not dropping litter in the first place.”

He added: “We want to try and keep the village in good shape for the future.

We are looking at running a campaign that encourages more residents and businesses to look after areas outside their premises to try and keep on top of litter and improve the overall look and feel of the village. Other ideas we’re working on include recruiting dog walkers to do a bit of litter picking while they walk their dogs.

“We would like to thank everyone for attending The Big Kilbarchan Smile Autumn Clear Up and the Team Up to Clean Up team for providing equipment including; litter pickers, hi viz vests, bags, bag hoops and gloves. A special thanks must go to “Habbies” for their generosity and support by donating refreshments and snacks.”

For more information about Kilbarchan Smile and to get involved email hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group “Kilbarchan Smile” on Facebook which now has more than 500 members.

Our Rangers, Duncan and Martyn have just recovered from our successful Halloween Fright Night and are starting already to plan for next year! Very exciting, watch this space!

Garden Gardener David has highlighted various plants to enjoy over December.

They include red berries such as yew, holly, skimmia and cotoneaster.

Yellow berries of Cottoneaster salicifolius and white berries on the Pernettya mucronate.

Cornus sibirica is shining red. The lovely yellow flowers on the Jasminum nudiflorum (winter Jasmine) are in bloom and so are the purple flowers of the Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’.

Events December is filled with Xmas activity.

Xmas Tree sales throughout December Make it a fun family day out. Come along a tag a tree. It only costs £5 for your tree deposit which comes off the full amount for the tree. This means that you and your family get onto the estate for free. You put your name on your tag and tag the tree you choose from one our pens.

You can then cut your own tree or one of our Rangers will be there to help. You can do this on the day of tagging or return another day.

For school visits to buy a tree please contact the visitor centre. Large trees available on request. (delivery Available.)

If you are a business, we have trees up to 22 feet so will have something to suit your office or home.

If you order a tree for your business then all your staff will get a 10% discount if they buy one so please let them know. They just need to tell us they work for you when buying a tree.

For more information on prices, call us on 01475540505.

Wreath Making Class: Thursday 7th, Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th.10am – 2pm Sorry fully booked for this year.

You can make your own wreath in time for Xmas. Made from moss, holly and yew from the estate. Costs £19 which includes your materials. Pre-Booking is essential. We have it in the Old Laundry Building with the fire on. Lovely experience.

Keep an eye out for dates for 2018.

Santa’s Grotto every Saturday and Sunday in December 10:30am – 4pm Santa’s coming to Finlaystone! Follow the magical Santa /trail to find Santa’s Grotto. Cost is £17.50 per child which gives you one adult for free. Pre-booking is essential.

To book call our visitor centre on 0147554050

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Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society Sandy and Frances Bryce of “Grow in Glenburn” were our guest speakers in November. They are Secretary and Treasurer respectively of this community-run project for green-fingered locals in Paisley. This is located in the kitchen garden of Glen House. The house is long gone and the gardens have reverted to nature. An area was used by Paisley Council to bring on plants for the town’s parks and to store their tools. Now it is in the hands of “Grow in Glenburn” who are reclaiming the kitchen garden for plots and raised borders.

“Grow in Glenburn” has been running for 9 years. There is a selection of plots and raised borders for the volunteers and more will be available once the remaining 25% has been cleared of self-seeded saplings and undergrowth.

This is good news for those on the waiting list! The standard allotment size is 250 square metres but here it is a more modest 5 square metres. The underlying soil conditions retain the fertility from a grander time of well-maintained cold frames and greenhouses. Once again a wide variety of vegetables is being grown such as kale, chilli, Brussel sprouts, sweetcorn and butternut squash and it has been an excellent year for the group’s potatoes, tomatoes and leeks. As well as a new asparagus bed, an orchard has been planted containing a mix of apples, plums and pears. They look forward to their first crop of apples and plums but have been warned to be patient as there is an old adage “plant a pear for an heir”. The group then share and swap their surplus produce. There is also a colourful flower border with many plants, including nasturtiums, sunflowers and Verbena bonariensis. Wildlife is welcomed here, although not quite the number of rabbits in residence

now the elderly fox has gone.

There are often requests from allotmenteers but this is very much a project for Paisley Buddies, particularly those around the Glenburn area who are keen to be self-sufficient and tend a border or plot of their own and take a break for teas, cakes and a chat with the other volunteers! Support also comes from local charities such as Barnardos whose scheme “Barnardos Works” provides work skills and experience for volunteers.

These young people help with the maintenance of the bothy (now the office) or clear paths and build benches etc. The elderly container, used for storing tools, has now been painted in bright colours depicting flowers and fauna.

Donations are always welcome. Tesco customers supported the project through their ‘blue button’ collection scheme and Rolls Royce donated sturdy wood blocks, used to stabilise engineering parts in transit.

These are now up-cycled into raised beds, or seating for visitors on “open days”. Old poly-tunnels, compost bins, membrane and gravel are always welcome, as is horse manure from nearby stables. The Bryces are enthusiastic members of the group and, as with all community ventures, they know the value of volunteers.

The group’s work in 2016 won them recognition from ‘Keep Scotland Beautiful’ when they were awarded an Outstanding Certificate of Distinction at Level 5.

Our next meeting, the AGM, will be held on Thursday 14th December at 8p.m. After the formalities, members will be able to mingle, enjoy refreshments and a seasonable mince pie and look at members’ photos.

Back to the fuchsia Sorry about the awful pun, but we couldn’t resist a look back to the middle of last month, when some of the fuchsias in our planters were still looking pretty good. By the time this issue of the Advertizer is out the frost will probably have claimed them, but they lasted really well this year.

All of our street planters and baskets have now been stocked with winter-flowering violas, which will provide a bit of colour over the winter months. Volunteers were out a few weeks ago to get that done before the next phase begins – the Christmas decorations. Our pictures show two examples, one of which depicts a fuchsia still towering above the violas which were planted beneath it.

The last year has been another successful one all round for us, and we’ve had many letters and comments which are very encouraging. Now’s the time to express our own appreciation of the support that we have received throughout the year from many residents and businesses in the village, too many to name here (and more who wish to remain anonymous). That’s what makes it so rewarding for us in Brighter Bridge of Weir. Don’t forget that you can follow our work on Facebook and the internet - www. brighterbridgeofweir.org .

Now, back to the future: Have a Very Christmas.

Merry

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Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park Merry Christmas! Season’s Greetings to one and all! We hope to see you for a festive walk or two with the family. We close early on Christmas Eve at 2pm at Castle Semple and reopen on Boxing Day at 12 noon.

This is the same on New Year’s Eve, reopening at 12 on Tuesday 2nd January 2018. The toilets and café are open 10am to 4pm daily with new shop gift items, cakes to try and hot drinks to enjoy.

Tree Felling at Muirshiel: Work is expected to start shortly with 3 large sitka spruce plantations being felled. There will be restrictions on access/pathways.

Please heed onsite signage or look on social media for the latest info.

Powerboat Experience Gifts: Would you like to give a loved one (over 16 years) a gift with a difference?

Buy them a gift voucher to complete their Level 2 Powerboating licence. Suitable for beginners, participants could gain a recognised RYA qualification.

Courses run regularly and cost just £150. Other ‘Gift Experiences’ available too.

Conservation Volunteers: Finding yourself with some free time? The volunteers have an active programme of tasks for over the winter period including Rhododendron clearance in Parkhill Wood. Greenock Cut’s group meet 10.30am – 2.30pm every Saturday and Castle Semple on Thursdays 12.30 – 3.30pm with the odd full day session.

Beith Camera Club: The group meet monthly through the winter and have some great images up in our lochside Visitor Centre café. Have a look and join them for their winter talk programme details at www. beithcameraclub.org.uk Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: Occasional weekend rides through the winter, see facebook group page for info or post if you have some free time and would like a ride. Contact the club by emailing the secretary ridesixtythree@gmail.com for a membership form and ride info.CMRP Tag-n-Track Project update It’s time for the monthly roundup from Project Officer Hayley Douglas. TnT is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Renfrewshire and Inverclyde LEADER and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Project News Another month done and only 2 gulls remain in Scotland.

The temperature gauge dropped on Sunday the 29th of October and with it three of our gulls decided to head south. Two of the birds, Roland and PC Bobby had been hanging about in Scotland with Roland favouring the Paisley area and PC Bobby his usual haunt in Greenock. Roland left the Clyde coast at 6.50pm and headed towards Ireland. He passed Ailsa Craig at 10.48pm that night and made landfall in Northern Ireland at Millisle at 2.47am on the morning of the 30th. He then continued down the coast and made landfall in the Republic of Ireland at 12.43pm and travelled down to

Balbriggan where he was last picked up at 10.39pm on the 30th. He has since spent the past week hanging out at Lough Liffey.

PC Bobby decided to fly to Northern Ireland and then headed back to All Saint’s Primary School in Greenock.

He flew over on the afternoon of the 29th of October, spent the night off Ballyquintin Point and then headed back home. Maybe he felt it was warmer back at the school? However he finally decided to leave Greenock for good this year and flew over to the Republic of Ireland on the 4th of November. He is currently down in the south at Waterford.

Finally our third gull decided to be a bit more adventurous.

Gully MacGullface had been living in the south of Eire since the 4th of September. He left the coast at 1.30pm, on the 29th and flew straight over the sea. Later, he was then picked up off the coast of Cornwall at 4.32pm and off the coast of Brittany at 6.36pm.

Most of our gulls then head across the Bay of Biscay to Spain but not Gully. He continued over the sea passing Spain at 5.52am on the morning of the 30th then flew all the way down the sea and at some points was 250km away from the Portuguese coast. He then made a turn east on the evening of the 30th and made landfall at the south west corner of Portugal at 6.53am. This journey took him 40 & 1/2 hours. He has now made it to Spain and is hanging out at a fishfarm.

Finally for this month, Roger has left Wales and is now in Portugal and has been hanging out at some of the sites that previous gulls have been too, such as Matosinhos and Costa de Caprica. We emailed the Portuguese birdwatchers to see if they could spot him and he was photographed on the 4th of November by José Vidal at Espinho beach, Portugal. To find out more check out www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/things-to-do/widlife/tag-ntrack/teamgull/ or at www.facebook.com/TagnTrack/ #TeamGull Adoption! Christmas is coming! Looking for a gift with a difference and interested in supporting the gull project? We are offering gull adoption packs where you can sponsor one of the gulls for £25 and in return you will receive an adoption certificate, factsheet, monthly email updates, your name on our website and a fluffy gull to call your own. Look for details on our website or email tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk to find out more.

Event News Come along and meet the TnT Team at Castle Semple on the weekend of the 21st and 22nd of January. We will be showing our findings so far, how to use our tracking website and much more. Please pop in and say hello anytime between 10am-4pm.

Keep up to speed with events and activities taking place on the Park’s Facebook: facebook. com/ClydeMuirshielRegionalPark or Twitter @Clydemuirshiel pages and Instagram pages.

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december 2017

Diaporama We were unable to show the planned evening which was to be: “Mr. William Crookston’s Magic Lantern Show” and look forward to seeing it next year.

Instead we quickly put together a replacement show which most of us contributed to. Some of the sequences were shows from the past and some were shows that have been lurking on our computers for some time and never previously shown. It made for an interesting and enjoyable evening.

Hugh whisked us off to Barcelona to see three sequences which showed the genius of Antoni Gaudi. The first ‘The Caso Battlo’ was the house which Gaudi worked on for a rich merchant. It is a beautiful building with superb ceramic tiles and is full of symbolism portraying Gaudi’s faith, nature and pride in being a Catalan. The second ‘Parc Guell’ has wonderful tile structures which compliment the garden including the dragon at the park gates. The third was a commentary on the previous two and a look at Gaudi’s fantastic Sagradi Familia.

Paisley Colour Photographic Club “Pat Cook’s image “Masked Lapwing” wins at Paisley Colour” From Glasgow’s longest established photography community Queens Park Camera Club, Paisley Colour Photographic Club were pleased to welcome top photographer Bob Collins to judge the first of the session’s three bimonthly competitions held recently at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew.

Bob demonstrated his years of photographic experience and wide knowledge in many areas of photography by critically analysing in detail each of the 99 images entered. Members, within the three categories Introductory, Intermediate and Advanced, could submit up to three digital each and the subjects of the images entered covered a wide range of topics from frozen landscapes to summer sports photography and Bob provided a constructive and interesting commentary throughout the evening.

Gerry’s first sequence was ‘Travels with a Dog’ and was about his daughter and her dog Hugo who accompanied her on all her training and work placements in Scotland and England. His second sequence took us back to Spain and was called ‘In Face of Austerity’. It was about the Carnival in El Saucejo and the marvellous costumes and face painting of the participants.

The Introductory section was won by Leonard Esakowitz for his strong image of a prowling lion entitled “Watching Me, Watching You”. Kathy Giddings was second and third in this section with her natural history shots entitled “Pine Martin” and “Ural Owl”.

David showed us three of his older sequences which we all enjoyed seeing again. He included the one of the iconic QE2 on her farewell visit to the Clyde in 2008 before she departed to begin a new life as a floating hotel in Dubai.

Fiona revisited one of her very first sequences called ‘Autumn’, which was appropriate for this time of the year. Her second sequence was ‘Pompeii’. It showed some of the streets, houses and artefacts which were buried in AD79 after the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius and have since been excavated. Her third sequence was the ‘Tall Ships Races in 2011’ and the parade of ships as they left Greenock for Lerwick.

The next meeting will be on the 11th December in the Carrick Centre Houston. This is our Christmas Extravaganza, which is always enjoyable.

Please feel free to join us.

The top three images in the Intermediate section were all of birds. Bob judged Carol Gracie’s image “Woodpecker” in third place and awarded first and second places to Frank McCollum for his images “Taking the View” and the stunning “In flight”.

In the Advanced section of over 60 images in third place was judged to be Jim Caldwell’s beautifully timed and exposed image “Yellowbilled Stork Landing”. In second place came Ken Dow’s superbly detailed and subtly coloured image entitled “Agriope Bruenniche with Lunch”. This year the worthy winner of PCPC’s 1st Bimonthly Competition was Pat Cook for her perfect capture “Masked Lapwing” feeding in warm antipodean sunlight.

Club meetings at the McMaster Centre continue on Thursday evenings with a variety of lectures and competitions. Visitors are always welcome. For further details about PCPC and updated members galleries please view: www.paisleycolour.co.uk

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16/11/2017 16:02:27

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Gryffe Camera Club

Kilmacolm Camera Club

A packed four weeks for Gryffe CC kicked off with past-president Kate “facilitating” a workshop for members on camera types and lens qualities.

Andy Stark provided expert advice and members chipped in during an entertaining and interesting evening.

Last month, members had the opportunity to be judges for one night, in our Summer Assignment Competition, with “Religion” being the topic.

These “diy” judging evenings can be quite effective in improving one’s own photography skills (provided we don’t fall out about the result!).

Tom Doherty returned to the club for a third time to present images which have been stored in the archives of Glasgow City Council. Eric Watt was a renowned member of Queen’s Park CC and had accumulated around 10,000 photographs chronicling Glasgow in all its aspects over the years, leaving them to the council on his death. Tom had worked for several years sifting through the boxes of images and, with only 2,500 viewed to date, had produced a fascinating summary in pictures of Eric’s work. The black and white images took us back in time and reminded us how Glasgow has moved through the years. Tom’s humour and warmth in describing the images and engaging with his audience were a delight.

Bill Ham had the best portfolio of four images, winning the Summer Assignment Quaich. His selection comprised three views of Glasgow Cathedral, plus “Isolated Chapel.”.

Second-placed portfolio was by David Addison and Janice Stevenson was third. The best individual image was Bill’s “Isolated Chapel,” with Douglas Forrest’s “Glasgow Cathedral Bell” in second place. A selection of the winning images are shown here.

Wednesday 1st November: League Competition 2 “Scapes”.

RESULTS

A Prints

Mono

1st place - P. Allan

1st place – P. Allan

2nd place - P. Allan

2nd place – M. Johnston

=3rd Place - M. Johnston

2nd place – T. Bailley

=3rd Place - K. Cummings

We also took an evening trip to Kelvingrove, where the Art Galleries and the cloisters at Glasgow University provided scope for some architectural photography. Unlike our previous visit to Glasgow Uni, there were no foxes patrolling the quadrangles this time! A couple of images are shown here.

Digital A

Digital B

1st Place – P. Allan

1st Place - C. Kyle

2nd Place - M. Martin

2nd Place - R. Logan

3rd Place – B. Crookston

3rd Place - R. Logan

For our fourth meeting of the month we were treated to the thoughts and prints of Robert Spence as he guided us through, with the aid of his collection of prints going back many years, what he called his “Hand in Horror Show”. This consisted of a collection ranging through portraits, landscapes, French doors and gardens and many other subjects which had caught his eye, entered into photographic competitions. The brunt of his acerbic wit was reserved for judges of these competitions he had entered. It was a treat to listen to him and he peppered his talk with gems of advice.

Gryffe Camera Club prides itself in being a welcoming and friendly club. If you find any of the subjects in December’s syllabus of interest to you please come along to the club.

We meet in the Carrick Centre, Houston each Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.

For further information have a look at our website: www.gryffecameraclub.co.uk

We had a much-welcomed return visit from Tom Doherty, who gave us another fascinating set of images of Glasgow, and the stories behind them.

Members also enjoyed another practical evening, this time on the fascinating world of macro photography. This is the technique which brings you close to your subject – in some cases, a matter of inches. Popular macro subjects could be table-top views of household objects, jewellery, insects, coloured liquids or flower heads. It offers a completely different viewpoint, one that you would not normally see – especially if you have recalcitrant knees like mine that refuse to bend! A very informative evening.

Come along and pick up some new photo skills. We’d be happy to show you.

Venue: Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01; Tuesday evening, time 7.30 (October to March) Contacts: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595.

Website: clikpic.com/kilcamclub/

06 -Dec League Competition 3a - “OPEN”: 13-Dec The John Duffy Portfolio

20-Dec Christmas Party or Bowling

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december 2017

41

Christmas is just around the corner and now that the leaves are off the trees, it feels a little like the colour is draining out of the countryside. At least it might, if it wasn’t for the beautiful robins all around. It seems as though they are a festive favourite for a good reason! They are also one of the few garden birds that will still sing over the darkest winter months, so enjoy!

Talking of the festive season, if you’re wanting to see those robins, or just get some exercise ahead of the Christmas turkey, try coming down to the RSPB nature reserve for a walk. We’re just across from Lochwinnoch train station and have comfy seats inside the visitor centre (& good coffee), for when you’ve had enough of the walking.

For more information about the reserve or any of our events, please call 01505 842 663 or email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk

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16/11/2017 16:03:24

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

42

the advertizer

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

By the time you read this, the deadline for submissions to the Proposed Local Development Plan will have passed and everyone will be on tender hooks waiting for the verdict of where any new housing is to be located. One suggestion put to me is for a “new town” to be built rather than attaching on pockets of new estates to villages that are already at gridlock.

Something like this is what has happened to Dargavel in Bishopton; only many of the benefits due in the original Section 75 agreement have still to be fulfilled.

Monday 4th December

Most of the leaves are now off the trees and the council and local villagers have been busy sweeping them up before they get washed into the drains. There are still a lot of leaves on the pavements and I hope the council gets round to sweeping them up before any flooding occurs.

The roadworks at the Deafhillock roundabout continues at snail’s pace it appears. Council are reluctant to carry out any resurfacing work in and around the surrounding villages for fear of creating further disruption for drivers and this is causing a backlog to the proposed programme. All this and we still haven’t got the extended slip road to the A737 on the Barrochan Road.

I noticed that the Red Cross www.redcross.org.uk has some useful information when it comes to dealing with winter weather and their website is worth a look.

The only thing I would add is to check you have plenty depth on your tyres and if not then consider replacing them. Christmas still seems a long way away off but I suspect this is my last article before then so can I wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

Please note my revised surgery details: • Langbank Parish Church Hall - 1st Monday of every month (6.30pm) • Bridge of Weir Cargill Hall - 2nd Monday of every month (6.30pm) • Bishopton Community Library - 3rd Monday of every month (6.30pm) I can be contacted by phone on 0300-300-1291 or by email to cllr.james.maclaren@ renfrewshire.gov.uk . Check out my Facebook page for more information and articles 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. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Lace Group Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (10 am - 12 noon) during the winter months. If you’d like to try lacemaking we can provide materials & tuition.

For further details phone (01505) 613967.

Christmas Lights Switch-on Bridge of Weir Community Council announce that the Christmas Lights Switch-on will be on Monday 4th December.

It’s that time of year again when the Community Council organise the Christmas Lights switch-on, and once again we have enhanced our lighting display.

The evening kicks off with the Carol Service in Freeland Church at 6.15pm followed by the Switch-on of the lights at 7pm at Livery where Santa will arrive in style.

Light refreshments will be served in the Royal British Legion Club. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir SWI On 7th December we will be enjoying a Christmas buffet prepared by members. We look forward to being entertained by a youthful theatre group. Some of our members will also be going on an outing to the pantomime during December.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Senior Citizens Club We meet at Cargill Hall every 2nd and 4th Wednesday 7 - 9.15pm.

Subscriptions are only £6 per year and £1 each week pays for your tea and biscuits. Entertainment provided.

Previous entertainers include a male voice choir & live music. Contact Sheila Patterson for further information on 01505 690521.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Festive Family Fun Night & Lights On Friday 1st December 5.30pm to 7.30pm in Langbank Primary School.

Followed by the Village Christmas Tree switch-on at 8.15pm in the Church car park.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Christingle Service Sunday 3rd December from 4pm - 6pm Bridge of Weir Messy Christingle service and everyone is welcome, young and old, to come along and make a Christingle (see below). We will be making them in the large hall at Freeland with other activities from 4pm - 5pm. We will then move into the church for a short candlelit service with the Christingles which is really lovely. After this, we will be back in the hall for food and a chat.

Lots of different people come along and it’s a great way to meet people. Babies and toddlers welcome. Adults are welcome to come along without a child but not the other way round as we don’t want to lose them!

Christingles have been around since 1747 when a German bishop was trying to explain the birth of Jesus to a group of children. It consists of an orange wrapped in a red ribbon with a candle in the centre and four cocktail sticks with fruit and sweets. The orange representing the world and the red ribbon representing God’s love wrapped around the world and the blood Jesus Christ shed on the cross.

The dried fruits and sweets are symbols of God’s creations and the candle symbolises Jesus the light of the world who brings hope to people living in darkness. We all need hope, the service is lovely and the children love eating the sweets before they should so come along and join us!

Just turn up on the day. Facebook (Bridge of Weir Messy Church)

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Singing for Wellbeing

A fun, no-pressure choir singing feelgood songs every Tuesday from 6pm - 7.15pm and Fridays at 2pm - 3.15pm in the Bishopton Community Centre.

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december 2017

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Police reminder: Residents are reminded to be more vigilant than usual in the run-up to Christmas. Make sure you keep all windows and doors, as well as garages and garden sheds securely locked at all times.

Thank you for your custom over the past six years. With your support and our loyal volunteers we manage to run The Bridge with its Post Office as a viable concern. The Community Centre and Shop continue to supplement the annual shortfall of between £6,500 and £7,000 in running our Post Office. It is therefore vital your support continues .

Bridge of Weir Community Council Planning: At the time of writing, we still await a decision from the Scottish Government’s reporter on the planning appeals for Whitelint Gate and land lying to the north of Kilmacolm Road.

The consultation on the suggested additional sites at Manswrae and Thriplee has now closed. There was considerable interest on both these proposals and a number of residents, as well as the Community Council, have responded to it.

The Community Council has learned that Cala Homes will be making a new application to develop the land at Lawmarnock Road. The new proposal is likely to include twelve dwellings.

Permission has been granted for the demolition of ‘Hermiston’ on Golf Course Road and it’s replacement with two new dwellings.

We will publish updates for planning issues on our Facebook page.

Boundary Commission: The boundary commission for Scotland has published a consultation exercise on proposals to revise the boundaries for the Westminster Constituencies. Under these proposals, Bridge of Weir would become part of Inverclyde and Erskine County Constituency. This would not affect Council boundaries or school catchment areas. Full details of the proposals and how to respond to the consultation, which closes on the 11th December 2017, can be found at the commission’s consultation portal – www.bcs2018.org.uk Roads: Road works and planned resurfacing works continue within the village.

The resurfacing of the A781 is now expected early in 2018, although Councillor Don is trying to have this brought forward.

The Bridge

Support The Bridge this Christmas – send one of our individually designed charity Christmas Cards. View local scenes throughout 2018 in the Bridge of Weir calendar. Also in stock are the popular “Greetings from Bridge of Weir” cards, Traidcraft and relation cards, Christmas paper, gift tags and your essential diary for 2018.

Post Office - call in to check the Christmas postal dates to ensure your parcels arrive in time for that all important day. Christmas stamps and a range of gift cards are now available – Donald, Anne and Stuart will be delighted to ensure you are well supplied.

Within our Shop you will find a wide variety of padded and postal bags, boxes, wrapping paper, string and wrapping tape to ensure your gifts reach their destination securely wrapped.

Looking for a Christmas or “First Foot” gift - our stock of Emma Ball stationery items are reduced by 30% - a real bargain.

To all residents of Bridge of Weir we wish you a happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2018.

The Bridge – Your Community Centre Shop and Post Office Closed 25th & 26th December 2017 and 1st & 2nd January 2018.

Outdoor Gym Equipment: The Community Council secured a grant for the supply and installation of outdoor gym-equipment. Look out for this equipment appearing in Ranfurly (the Glen) Park early in the New Year.

Festive lights: The annual Christmas light’s switch-on takes place on Monday 4th December. There will be the usual Carol service in Freeland Church at 6.15pm, supported by the Primary School Choir, with the switch-on at Livery Walk scheduled for 7pm. Santa will join the fun and light refreshment will be available in the RBL Hall.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bishopton Christmas Tree Light Switch on Sunday 3rd December 2017 at Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton The village Christmas tree lights will be switched on after a carol service that starts at 6.15 pm. There is an open invitation to the local community to join in too.

Bishopton Community Centre Association and Bishopton Parish Church have once again organised the Christmas tree light switch on and community carol singing. The carol singing will be held within the building. The Christmas tree light switch on ceremony will take place outdoors in the Community Centre’s car park, adjacent to the Christmas tree. The carol singers will include children and adults from community organisations. Song sheets will be distributed for everyone else to join in. Refreshments will be available.

The Community Centre car park will be closed to allow the ceremony to take place. It is recommended that motorists should leave their cars at home and walk to the Centre. It is likely to be cold and those attending should wrap up appropriately.

Billy Arrol, Chairman of Bishopton Community Centre Association said, “Following on from the previous successful Christmas tree light switch on ceremonies and carol singing, Bishopton Community Centre Association is delighted to be involved again in helping this year’s too. The lights will be switched on by a local noteworthy person or persons. I am also hoping that we will have a special seasonal guest appearance. It promises to be a good community event for all of the family.”

“It is a free event. Light refreshments will be available.”

Langbank SWI Our October meeting was a Fire Safety Talk, and we were made aware of the risks due to overheated electrical appliances. We now know how to make our homes much safer, and visits from a Fire Safety expert were arranged for many homes.

The November meeting was on Heart Health.

December Christmas Party with Buffet Thursday 14th December at 7.30pm Everyone brings a £1 Secret Santa gift

S

ei g s Sl ’ a t

Voice Of Hope warmly invite you to a

Langbank Village Centre Friday 8th December 7pm - 9pm Mulled Wine, Tea, Mince Pies, Cakes, Carols, Readings, Musical Items Speakers: David and Allyson Tyrrell from Healing Rooms Scotland.

REGULAR GATHERINGS: Weekly Ladies Bible Studies Tues 10.30am Fortnightly Friday Night Church 7pm For venue and info: 07890 777710 or 01475 540700

h is coming to town

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Elves arrivin is h & ta n a S th.

Saturday 16 Look out for – th 12 y a sd eir Tue Bridge of W

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Next meeting: The next regular meeting of the Community Council will take place on Tuesday 5th December 2017at 7pm in the Cargill Hall.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Santa will set off each night at 6pm and will try to finish each route by 8.30pm.

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kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

44

the advertizer kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

It is often said, but as easily forgotten, how grateful we as residents are, to the dedicated few who give of their spare time to speak on behalf of the community on matters that can affect our daily lives. One such person is Jack Richmond a member of Lochwinnoch Community Council.

Friday 1st December, 2pm-4.30pm

I know that I am likely to embarrass Jack but I felt it only right to highlight what real devotion to duty is all about. It may not be known by everyone in Lochwinnoch but Jack has recently retired from the Chairmanship of the Glasgow Airport Consultative Committee (GACC), after having served on this committee for 38 continuous years! It has been my honour and privilege to have served with Jack as a member for the last decade of his time on this committee. He served GACC with a firm but dignified control and is respected by all. Jack was thanked at his last meeting for his services to the committee and was presented with a portrait of the airport, from 38 years ago, by Amanda McMillan, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport.

We all wish you and Elma all the very best in your retirement.

I mentioned in my last report on the car park space behind the McKillop Institute in Lochwinnoch being occupied by an abandoned trailer. I can report that the trailer has now been removed and must thank Renfrewshire Leisure for their swift response to my request for assistance in this matter. All we need now is a complete renovation of the much used building with an upgrading of the play area, seating, and the lighting above the path at the side of the building. A group has been formed, ‘Friends of McKillop’, to carry the project of renovation further.

You can help by filling in a questionnaire on line at https://www.surveymonkey. co.uk/mckillopinstitute with your ideas for the building etc.

Future of Day Services at West Lane Gardens and Whitehaugh Day Centre – further discussion with the current service provider, Capability Scotland, has resulted in an extension to the closure date to 30th April 2018. This will allow more time to consider options for the future of the services. A further report on progress is expected at the next meeting of the IJB on the 24th November 2017.

The biggest shake-up to residents for a while is the proposal by Renfrewshire Council to implement short stay car parking charges in Johnstone! It is proposed to raise existing charges in Paisley and introduce charges in Johnstone and charge residents an annual fee for a reserved parking space! I have no doubt what the immediate reaction will be by the residents and commuters to Johnstone. Please voice your concerns by writing or e-mailing your concerns to me. I have asked for a public meeting to discuss this issue. We shall see whether this request will be granted.

It is that time of year again and as this will be my last opportunity to speak to you this year, may I wish you all:- A Very Happy And Glorious Christmas Contact Details: Tel: 0300 300 1423 e-mail: cllr.bill.binks@renfrewshire.gov.uk Mob: 07976 239 881 SURGERIES: 1st Monday each month HOWWOOD Village Hall 6pm (On bank holiday Mondays it will be the 1st Tuesday 6pm): 2nd Wednesday each month KILBARCHAN Steeple Hall 6pm: 3rd Monday each month JOHNSTON Town Hall 6pm: 4th Wednesday each month LOCHWINNOCH Library 6pm

2nd Lochwinnoch Golf Club Tea Dance The second free Tea Dance in support of Lochwinnoch Dementia Friendly Village will be on Friday 1st December 2pm till 4.30pm. Come and dance, sing and have fun with the fantastic ‘Music Box’ and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea from Janice and her team!

The dance has been sponsored by one of the Lochwinnoch Golf club life members what a generous and kind gesture!

For more info 07868752814

contact

Morag

on

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Christmas Coffee Morning

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Saturday 9th December, 10am-1pm St Paul’s Church, Johnstone are holding a Grand Christmas Fayre and Coffee Morning on Saturday 9th December in the Masonic Hall, Collier Street, Johnstone, from 10am till 1pm.

There will be many various stalls including a Christmas stall, Toy stall, Sweets stall, Tombola, Toiletries etc. And of course lots of delicious homebaking.

This is always a very popular event, we look forward to seeing you there.

Lochwinnoch SWI

As there is no scheduled meeting this month we would like to take this opportunity of wishing our members and friends the happiest of Christmases and every good wish for a prosperous and healthy 2018.

We look forward to seeing everyone again in January.

The Committee, Lochwinnoch SWI

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

I have long argued for more significant investment in villages from various administrations at Renfrewshire Council of all political colours, so I am very pleased that the last Communities, Housing, and Planning Board passed a report which approved an application for Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park to the Making Places Fund run by the Scottish Government. If approved this will boost community interest in the Park, and increase its long term viability and I was happy to support this application.

I am also pleased that the last Infrastructure, Land, and Environmental Board approved moves to use council land to create a new pedestrian and cycling route from Beith Road to Old Howwood Road near St Vincent’s Hospice. Currently access to the Hospice from Beith Road is unlit and poorly surfaced and Sustrans have agreed to fund an upgrade.

In relation to the plethora of planning applications in and around Kilbarchan the Council has received a response from the Scottish Planning Minister who has stated that under certain conditions greenbelt can be built upon. This sadly confirms my long-standing fears that Scottish planning policy is failing our village communities in Renfrewshire as some greenbelt seems greener than others.

I am always keen to offer constituents as wide a range of options for contacting me about issues they wish to raise, so I am pleased to report that I now have a facebook page called Independent Voice@Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages. My 22yr old son tells me I have now joined the 21st century.

As we approach the Christmas period I would like to wish all my constituents across the ward, of all faiths and none, a very happy and holy Christmastide. In particular, I would like to wish all those community activists in the ward who help to run community councils, tenants and residents associations, elderly forums, and all kinds of community groups, for what they bring to all our villages. They work not for themselves but for the common good and they deserve recognition for their sterling work.

My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall at 7:30pm, and my advice surgery in Howwood is at 6.30pm on the 4th Wednesday of the month, and then in Lochwinnoch on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 7.30pm, all excluding July and Christmas. But I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8, e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@ renfrewshire.gov.uk, or facebook me on Independent Voice@Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Art Group This Group is always glad to welcome new members. We are not a class, as such, but sharing knowledge and ideas from the group as a whole does result in an improvement in performance. All abilities are urged to come along and give us a try. Hope to see you there....meetings take place on Mondays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in the Space Room in the McKillop Halls. For more information phone Lorna 01505 843048.

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december 2017 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

The decision at the recent meeting of Renfrewshire Councils Environmental Policy Board to introduce parking charges in Johnstone has met with an angry response from people in Howwood, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch who regularly visit the town .

This response has been echoed by members of Johnstone Business Consortium, who believe that this will be detrimental to the town and its visitors. I share those concerns and vehemently oppose these proposed charges.

The local administration councillors who voted through this policy need to reconsider their decision. Common sense must prevail and the decision must be reversed.

Another significant decision made at the same board meeting was a change to bin collections. From next year collection of grey bins will be reduced to every 3 weeks, a second blue bin will be provided to households free of charge. One bin will be for plastic and glass the second for paper and card. They will be collected fortnightly.

I am supportive of any plan to encourage recycling, however, given recent complaints in some areas about the erratic collection of grey bins, I am concerned that should this continue problems may occur, including regrettably potential fly tipping, not to mention the problem of space for some households in accommodating an additional bin, It is evident that the implications of both parking charges and bin collections, have not been thought through, and it is unacceptable that there has been no public consultation on either matter.

At the time of writing a programme of drain and gully cleaning is to be undertaken in Lochwinnoch. I have requested that similar attention is given to both Kilbarchan and Howwood.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Elderslie Christmas Lights On & Fayre Saturday 25th November, 2pm Fayre, 5pm Raffle, 5.30pm Carols, 6pm Lights switch on

Elderslie Community Council are pleased to invite everyone to their Christmas lights switch on and fayre! The event starts at 2pm in Elderslie Village hall and has 20 stalls with lots of ideas for Christmas gifts such as ornaments, candles, jewellery, hair accessories and toiletries. We also have stalls that can do personalised gifts and we’ll have face painting for the young ones, or the young at heart!

There will be tea, coffee and juice for the kids being served alongside some delicious home baking and we are very pleased to be having a collection box for Renfrewshire Food Bank so if you have any spare please being it along and we’ll get it to them. Currently they are especially in need of UHT milk, juice and sugar.

We will also be donating selection boxes on behalf of the village.

There will be a raffle to be drawn at 5pm with prizes from some of the stall holders as well as kind donations from our local businesses which include Steak lunch for two with a bottle of wine at the excellent Butchers Steak and Grill, a Massage at Paisley Natural Therapy Centre and a Steak Pie for New Year from the Award winning Elderslie Butchers.

Wallace Primary School Choir will be leading Carols sung round the tree at 5.30pm before one of the choir will be the lucky one actually switching on the lights at 6pm so please come along and join in with the fun. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood Community Council

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Knitting Bee

Knuts4Knitting Meets fortnightly on a Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at Knit Knax, 37 High Street Johnstone, also weekly Thursday from 2pm to 4pm.

Contact: Pamela 07743 156738 or email bknitting@hotmail.co.uk.

Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm in Howwood Village Hall. Please feel free to come along - all welcome.

Talking of which I cannot believe that we have reached December already, with many of our traditional community events taking place as usual.

Kilbarchan Parish Church

My surgeries are on the first Saturday of every month except January and July, at 9am in the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch, 10am in the Village Hall Howwood, and 11am in the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan Meantime please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534156007 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

The Kilbarchan Singers Christmas concert Saturday 9th of December, 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm), at Kilbarchan Parish Church, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan, with invited guests, The Kilbarchan Parish Church Junior Choir, conducted by Moira Gray. Tickets £8.50 (children free), refreshments included. Tickets available on the door or from choir members. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan

During the month of December the group has 2 meetings. The first is an evening of Your Favourite Painting and along with this, a cheese and wine evening with your Favourite Cheese.

We shall also enjoy our annual Christmas party with partners. We resume on Wednesday 10th January.

We would be delighted to welcome new members, please phone 703786 for more information or see the website: www.nwr.org.uk

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal. 84 boxes along with money were dedicated in the Parish Church and despatched to the depot in Hillington prior to being sent to Eastern Europe in time for Christmas.

Church Hanging. A new hanging for Kilbarchan Parish Church will be unveiled shortly-this will be in the form of a vine and the members of the church family have signed leaves to attach to make a record for future generations.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Christmas Fayre takes place on Saturday 2nd December from 10am-12noon in the halls, Steeple Square, when there will be many gift stalls and a chance for the children to have their photo taken with Santa. Come along and enjoy the fun-mince pies and shortbread will accompany coffee/tea.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club. The club takes place on Mondays from 9.15am - 11.30am in the church hall and is run by a group of volunteers from the church. We are delighted to welcome tots from birth-3 years, along with their accompanying adults. There is a huge variety of toys and bouncy castle for the tots and enjoyable company with tea/coffee for the adults. The cost remains £1 for adults. The Hallowe’en Party on 30th October was a great success with the tots wearing some varied costumes-even a 2-week old baby!!

The Christmas Party is on Monday 18th at 9.45am when Santa will pay a visit.

The group will resume on Monday 8th January from 9.15am.

kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

I have been advised that the transfer of local police from the Quarry Street office to Johnstone Town Hall is now complete. I am however concerned that in line with the current policing model some staff are being transferred from Quarry Street to Renfrew, rather than to the town hall. I have sought reassurance that this will not have a negative impact on police presence and cover in the villages, particularly as we are entering one of the busiest times of the year.

All that remains for me is to wish everyone in Kilbarchan Howwood and Lochwinnoch a Happy and Peaceful Christmas.

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Gryffe Advertizer - Current & Past Issues

www.advertizer.co.uk/issues

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 42-53 VILLAGE_279 DECEMBER17.indd 45

16/11/2017 15:48:21

kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

46

the advertizer

Would you know what to do in an Emergency?

New Dates for 2018!! ♥ Every week in Scotland, 70 people suffer cardiac arrest. ♥ More than 3500 people per year in Scotland are treated by the Ambulance Service following a cardiac arrest. ♥ Only one in 20 people will survive. ♥ Without resuscitation, cardiac arrest is always fatal ♥ But, performing CPR could double that person’s chance of survival Heartstart courses are free of charge and it only takes two hours to learn the skills which may someday save a life: ♥ Recovery position ♥ CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) ♥ Heart Attack ♥ Choking ♥ Serious bleeding To learn the simple skills that save lives, contact Morag Thow on 07868 752814 to book onto one of our courses: Tues 12th December 2017

7-9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

Wed 24th January 2018

7-9pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

Tue 20th February

7-9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

Wed 28rd March

7-9pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

Tue 17th April

7-9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

Wed 23rd May

7-9pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

Tue 19th June

7-9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Seasons Greetings from Howwood and Lochwinnoch SVDP Society The members of the Society wish everyone in the village all the blessings of the Christmas Season and every health and happiness in the coming New Year. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Christmas Services in Howwood The vigil mass of Christmas will be celebrated at 6pm on 24th December in Christ the King Howwood and the Christmas Day Mass at 10am. All are welcome to attend. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Scottish Country Dance Classes Tuesdays in the McKillop Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Christmas Fayre Hall,

We always have great fun and it's good exercise too! Phone Lorna Black 01505 843048 for more info.

Saturday 2nd December from 10am - 12noon Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall Many gift stalls and a chance for the children to have their photo taken with Santa.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

News from the Old Library Centre

Well here we are again, what can I tell you this month?

The eagerly awaited calendar produced at the Old Library Centre is now for sale at the Old Library Centre and in Bobbins Coffee Shop for £4.99. This calendar is produced by our hard working volunteers and this year the theme is pictures of old and new Kilbarchan. New this year is a list of our advertisers at the back so you will be able to find their telephone number easily. The calendar contributes to funds that keep the Old Library Centre running as a community facility, so please consider supporting us by buying the calendar.

• The Elderslie Scouts hosted a model railway exhibition supplied by Renfrewshire Model Railway Club, which is based in Elderslie. The village hall also had festive stalls and tables.

The events commenced at 2pm.

The FABS exercise class for over 60’s (flexibility, aerobics, balance, strength) has proved to be extremely popular and the class is now full. We have now started a waiting list for a class on a Tuesday afternoon from 2.30pm – 3.30pm. If you are interested in joining this class please contact the Old Library Centre to join the waiting list.

The University of the 3rd Age are running a Spanish conversation group here on Monday afternoons from 2pm - 4pm. You do not have to be a member to join in and any Spanish speakers will be made welcome at this group.

The Old Library Centre will close on Thursday 22nd December and reopen on Monday 8th January and may we take this opportunity to wish all friends and supporters a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood WI

Tuesday 19th December: Christmas Get Together with Taste and Try Santa Bag - give and receive Competition: A Tree Decoration

First, Elderslie Village held its Christmas Fayre on Saturday 25th November at venues around Stoddart Square.

• A raffle was held at 5pm • Carols sung at 5.30pm • Lights switched on at 6pm Ward 8 has two groups, one in Elderslie and one in Corseford, working towards the creation of community playparks. I am sure that these groups would be happy to receive volunteers to take part in advancing these ideas.

Hopefully, users of Stoddart Square and the paths through Lexwell woods will notice a reduction in litter as a certain person with his dog in tow, has been wondering around with a litter picker and rubbish sack. Please may I ask that you think twice about dropping rubbish and make use of the Council provided litter bins.

After Christmas, I have decided not to hold surgeries in the Village Hall, as there has been little response. This will save wasting Council resources and finances. I am happy to respond to any enquiries by email, letter, telephone, carrier Pidgeon, or in person by appointment.

My final surgery in Elderslie Village Hall will be on Saturday 9th December at 10.30am.

Vote of Thanks: Morag Wills New members will be made very welcome. For further information please contact Irene MacTaggart on 01505 704800.

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december 2017 houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield News

47

Frighteningly good fun was had at Brookfield Village Hall on Saturday 21st October.

Villagers from across Renfrewshire turned out in amazing fancy dress costumes to have fun at 2 Blue Coral Events Parties.

The afternoon Phantasmagorical Pumpkin Party saw more than 60 kids do Halloween craft making with Paint Pot Tots, an animal show, dance with a DJ Stuart Ritchie and play loads of games including Dooking for Apples, Monster Mash, the Donut String Game, Toilet Roll Mummy, and Halloween Limbo.

There was also a Candy Bar with loads of sweet treats and a Pumpkin Patch Store with Silver, Gold and White Pumpkins.

Additionally there were prizes for Best Dressed Boy and Girl, and for those brave enough to take part, an animal handling session that included a corn snake, tarantula, cockroach, giant African snails, plus a fluffy bunny and Simon the duck for the not so very brave!

Local mum Carole Logan commented “What an amazing event. The kids have all had a brilliant time, this was really well organised”.

Then at 6.30pm the doors of the same Village Hall opened once again for Blue Coral’s evening family disco.

More than 100 ghouls and ghost families turned up raring to party the night away.

Costumes ranged from Where’s Wally? to Cruella de Ville, Fred Flintstone, Star Wars favourites and former St Mirren legend Steven Thomson and his wife turned up as Danny Zucko and Sandy from Grease.

The night was a huge success with one partygoer saying “This is just brilliant! When is the next one happening?”

Blue Coral Events are Nicola Steele from Houston and Gaynor Day, Bridge of Weir. Gaynor said, “We absolutely love putting on events within our own local community. The turnout was brilliant and the effort people went to with their costumes was incredible. The best part for us without a doubt is seeing the enjoyment on all the children’s faces.

A massive thank you to everyone that came along to either one or both of our events. It was a super busy day and really successful so keep your eyes peeled or follow us on Facebook to find out about our next one!”

Bee Happy Houston The Bee Happy Houston gardening group is continuing to expand the work it is doing.

The team fully appreciates that people don’t necessarily have the time or the means to volunteer with us. However, we thought that there might be another way for others to make a valued contribution to what we are trying to do.

We would like to give residents the opportunity to make a contribution in the form of a subscription, either a one off payment or a regular annual amount (the suggested amount is a minimum of £5). This would be used to help us fund the purchase of plants and bulbs in the years to come so that we can continue to keep our village beautiful.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

A subscription form and a Standing Order form can be obtained by emailing Lesley Walker lesley61walker@outlook.com.

Paper copies are also available in the Village Post Office and from The Paper Shop on South Street.

Full instructions on how to contribute are given on the subscription form.

Thank you.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Parlez Vous Francais French Conversation group meets every Wednesday from 9.30am till 12noon at Fox & Hounds. Informal tuition same venue 2pm - 4 pm. Phone 01505 871 343, 07463 570464 or email avril.forbes2015@outlook.com

the advertizer houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield News

1st Houston and Crosslee Scouts Christmas Coffee and Craft Morning with new Santa’s grotto.

On Saturday 2nd December 10am 1pm in the Scout Halls, Houston

Who, Why, How? Are you interested in discussing who we are, why we are here, predestination or free will, western philosophy versus eastern philosophy? We meet in Fox and Hounds once a fortnight. Contact 01505 871343 or 07463 570464 or email avril.forbes2015@outlook.com.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

New Sewing Class Got a sewing machine but never used it or just lost confidence? Do you want to know how to raise/lower a hem or change a broken zip? We might just have the solution. A new SEWING CLASS has started in the Village Hall Library on a Tuesday evening from 7-9pm. Come along and learn essential techniques every Beginner or Refresher Sewer should know. £10.00 per class. Places for 6-week block must be booked in advance.

Contact brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com for more information or to book a place.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Crafty Friends Crafty Hobbies is what we do Come and join our Crafty crew Come and learn some Crafty makes Followed by some tea and cakes We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursdays in the month at 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre Houston. No previous craft experience necessary. We are just a group of ladies who enjoy making things! Contact - Lorna Cairns 612844 or Shirley White 610721. First meeting is Thursday 7th September.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Crosslee SWI We are looking forward to celebrating our 88th birthday on Wednesday13th December when we will be entertained by The Fables Theatre Concert Party.

Our first meeting of 2018 will be a “ Corners “ evening.

We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston. Please come and join us, you will be made very welcome. If you wish further information please contact, Arlene MacKay on 07932 459994.

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Houston and Killellan Kirk A Christmas Concert by The B Flats Friday 1st December commencing at 7.45pm

SUNDAY 3 DECEMBER: Christmas Tree Light Switch On

from 5.30pm

Following the success of last year’s event, this is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Meet at the Village Hall at 5.30pm and join a candlelight procession to the Millennium Garden where our group of village brass players – the Brookfield Brass Necks – will entertain us with some Christmas music prior to the switch-on of the tree lights. Then it’s back to the Hall for some refreshments and a viewing of ‘The Snowman & the Snowdog’ on a giant screen!

houston, crosslee & brookfield houston, crosslee & brookfield

This year’s village Christmas card from Brookfield Village Council depicts a snowy scene looking down Albert Road – this should be delivered any day now, if indeed it has not already arrived. The reverse of the card provides a reminder of the various village events taking place throughout December and we hope residents will be able to join in with as many events as possible.

SATURDAY 9 DECEMBER: Children’s Christmas Party

-

The B Flats are a four part (soprano, alto, tenor and bass) harmony group of 31 singers, drawn from around their base at Gartocharn.

The group formed about 18 years ago, original members from Gartocharn Church, a small body of folk who enjoyed each others company , home baking and singing.

The group attracted more members and in November 2001 they gave their first public concert at Gartocharn Village Hall. Since then they have had traditional Christmas and Spring Concerts in the hall. In addition they have performed in Drymen, Alexandria and other locations raising money for charity. So far they have raised £29,000 for primarily, local charitable bodies.

The concert in the Kirk will be a mixture of traditional and less well known Christmas songs with some original arrangements by the founder of the group, Robin Barr.

3pm - 5pm

Fun and games with The Song & Dance Factory and of course, a visit from Santa!

Residents are reminded that tickets (£5.00) must be booked in advance – any resident who still requires tickets please e-mail brookfieldvpa@gmail.com as soon as possible with the number of tickets required and confirmation of children’s names/ages.

SUNDAY 17 DECEMBER: Christmas Carol Service

2pm

A celebration of Christmas with the Brookfield Brass Necks leading the carols followed by mince pies and mulled wine.

WEDNESDAY 27 DECEMBER: Cheese & Wine

2pm

This ever-popular event is the ideal opportunity for residents, visiting family members, friends and neighbours to get together for a really sociable afternoon between Christmas and New Year.

SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER: Hogmanay Dance

8.30pm - 1am

Dance the night away and see in the New Year with live band, DIZZY HEIGHTS. Tickets £12.50 (minimum age 16) available from brookfieldvpa@gmail.com or from any Village Councillor. Bar/Raffle/Refreshments.

JANUARY 2018 - NEW DANCE CLASS: If the current series of ‘Strictly’ has inspired anyone in this area to get dancing, then sign up for lessons with CoStep.

Co, which will start in Brookfield Village Hall on THURSDAY 11 JANUARY 2018 from 7pm – 9pm. They teach Argentine Tango & Modern Ballroom (also Latin & Swing) and their specially designed beginners classes are an ideal way to get started if you’re new to partner dancing. Contact details for more information: e-mail: alldance@costep.co or call 07513 046016.

Facebook: brookfieldvillage.org

Twitter: @BrookfieldVPA

We are assured that enjoyment and fun are very much central to their ethos.

Come along and join in the beginning of Christmas festivities hosted by Houston and Killellan Kirk Scottish Country Dancers.

Donations will be gratefully accepted which will be given to our Extension Fund. houston, crosslee & brookfield

New CoStep dance classes in Brookfield Village Hall New dance classes start in Brookfield Village Hall (PA5 8UB) on Thursday Evenings from 11th January.

Argentine Tango and Modern Ballroom with some Latin & Swing.

Open to all; join the Beginners class if you have no dance experience, otherwise join the Post-beginners class.

Have fun and learn at your own pace.

To reserve your place contact us - email brookfield@costep.co or call 07513 046016. For more details visit www.costep.co

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Johnstone Christmas Lights Switch-on Saturday 2nd December, 5pm Johnstone gets in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the town. Highlights this year include Santa’s Grotto in Houston Square, St Vincent’s Hospice Christmas Market in Johnstone Town Hall, Stage entertainment, Facepainting and Children’s entertainment. Provost Cameron will switch on the Christmas lights at 5pm.

Don’t forget...Johnstone Business Consortium will also have a Christmas Market 10am-4pm, 1 & 2 December.

coming to tow eigh is t for l n S s Look ou ta’ ving in...

s arri Santa & his Elve sday 7thd) iday 1st - Thur Fr e le (not Sunday 3r ss ro C & Houston day 11th Brookfield Mon

Sa

n

Santa will set off each night at 6pm and will try to finish each route by 8.30pm.

t: 01505 613340

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december 2017 houston, crosslee & brookfield

Bee Happy Houston Bee Happy Houston gardening group, which is linked with Houston Community Council are delighted to have received an advancing award certificate from Keep Scotland Beautiful

Chief Executive Derek Robertson at their annual seminar in Stirling on 25th October. Jill Jack and Marion Greig where in attendance and accepted the award on behalf of Bee Happy Houston.

Our group was formed earlier this year and is made up of like minded volunteers who wish to make Houston a more enjoyable and beautiful place for residents and visitors alike. Our small group provides a real sense of community pride, cohesion and spirit.

Bee Happy have tidied up neglected areas, planted shrubs/bulbs across the village to brighten up corners and green spaces. Many more small projects are planned to make Houston even more beautiful.

Considering this is the first year the group has been active, it has achieved so much with a large area of the village being covered, planting and clearing areas to benefit everyone.

The group meet on a Thursday morning between 10am - 11.30am in various locations throughout Houston. If you are interested in coming along or can spare a few hours now and then you will be made most welcome. No gardening experience required and all tools are provided. Please email admin@houstonvillage.co.uk for more information.

Co-op Houston - Food Bank ‘Christmas Collection’ Are we on your ‘Christmas shopping list’?!

We’ll be in our Houston Co-op Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December 9am to 9pm both days with our shopping trolley and charity bucket – busy collecting your food parcels to help make Christmas a much happier time for children and their families requiring the services of the Food Bank over the Christmas and holiday season.

There is a Renfrewshire Food Bank donation bin in the Houston Co-op all year round.

We look forward to seeing you all in our Houston Co-op the first weekend in December – ‘Happy Christmas Shopping’!

Thank you for your kindness – Renfrewshire Food Bank If anyone requires any further information regarding the Renfrewshire Food Bank or the Christmas Collection then please contact Jenny 07725 897 833 or JennyMeadows10@outlook.com

As we approach the Christmas period I, like many constituents, am doing the Christmas shopping and am as guilty of anyone of taking the easy option and buying things online. However, I am trying to make a determined effort to shop more locally so that local traders and businesses in Renfrewshire can get the benefit. At this time of year it is natural to think of family members that are no longer with us, and I always remember my grandfather who ran his own business and how hard he worked, so let us all try harder to do our bit to support local businesses.

I would also like to wish all my constituents across the ward, of all faiths and none, a very happy and joyous Christmas. As families gather around the tree let us all try and keep an eye on those, such as the very elderly, who may have little or no family. Please consider the vulnerable and less fortunate this Christmas.

My advice surgery in Brookfield is on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6.30pm in Brookfield Village Hall, and my advice surgery in Houston is on the 4th Thursday of the month in Houston Village Hall, at 7.15pm, excluding July and Christmas. But I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07768 130935, or e-mail me at cllr.audrey. doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston (Houston Old School Trust) Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438 Coffee Shop: - Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm Sat, 9am-4pm MONDAY Yoga (Weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 Diaporama 11th 7.30pm Young Farmers TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (Weekly) 10am Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 Musical Theatre (Weekly) 4pm - 7pm Yoga (Weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Lirico Languages (Weekly) 7pm 8.30pm (Fiona 01505 614306) Councillor Surgery 5th 6.45pm 7.30pm WEDNESDAY Big Kids Little Learners 10am - 11am Janine Neil 07870 697010 Gryffe Melody Makers 13th 7pm Community Council 20th 7.30pm Gryffe Camera Club, (Weekly) 7.30pm THURSDAY Gryffe Quilting Group (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd) 1.15 pm - 3.15pm (16th 10am)

Primary Colours (Weekly) 3.30pm 4.30pm Crafty Friends 7th, 21st 7.30pm Folk Club (Weekly) 8pm iaintdawson@ gmail.com 07786 078952 Galaxy (Weekly) 3.30pm - 7pm FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) 10.30am M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Big Kids Little Learners (Weekly) 1pm – 2pm Janine Neil 07870 697010 Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) 3.30pm 7pm Gavin Newlands M.P. Surgery 10th 12.30pm - 1.30pm SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) 9.30am 5pm Councillors Surgery 4th 11.30am – 12noon Carrick Concert SUNDAY Baptist Church (weekly) 11am and 6pm

Booking enquiries to: Ian Simpson 01505 612203 Bill Haddow 01505 690693 Stewart Scally 01505 674277 hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Killellan Kirk

houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston Kirk Postie - A Service for the whole Community Raising funds for Alzheimer Scotland ‘Paisley Memory Lane Club’ For a donation of only 25p a card the Houston Kirk Postie will deliver anywhere in Houston, Crosslee or Brookfield.

The Sorting Office, in the West Church Halls, will be open from 10am to 12noon and again from 7pm to 8pm every day from 11th to14th December. Cards may also be taken to the Church on Sunday 10th December.

Delivery is guaranteed not later than 19th December.

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the advertizer

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Surgeries On the last Monday of every month PC Jamieson, the local neighbourhood officer, will hold a surgery in the Community Centre between 10.30 11.30 am. Please pop in and see him if you want to share any concerns or need advice.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Christmas Lights On Friday 8th December Quarriers Village from 4pm Kilmacolm from 6pm Santa will be visiting the children in all locations so come along, join in the Christmas carols and see the lights go on!

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Community Council It was decided at the October meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council that we would endeavour to provide a brief report each month to the advertiser letting the community of Kilmacolm know what was discussed at each monthly meeting.

PC Jamieson reported that from the meeting in September to 24th October there had been 6 crimes reported in the Kilmacolm & Quarriers area. Unfortunately, the bicycle security marking event on the 7th October was not well attended but PC Jamieson will try again, date to be decided. The community wardens also attended the meeting and advised there had been six anti-social reports, these have mostly taken place in the Pavilion at Birkmyre Park. The contact number for the community wardens is - 0800 013 1701.

A letter of objection was agreed upon to be sent to Gladman Associates on behalf of KCC and the community of Kilmacolm in reply to their exhibition and the proposals for the Knapps and North Dennistoun. Taylor Wimpey have also indicted they will be in contact with a date to hold a public meeting regarding plans for a development at Planetreeyetts.

Many complaints regarding flooding, pavements and surfaces which affect “the safe route to school” these are being addressed by the chair to Inverclyde council.

KCC and KNCC are jointly funding a community defibrillator to be on the outside wall on the library wall beside the back door of the new surgery.

The Christmas light switch on will be held on Friday 8th December and the KCC will hold its annual raffle, the proceeds of which will go to the yearly maintenance charge of the community defibrillator.

Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 28th November at 7.30pm in the Community Centre, everyone welcome.

A full version of the minutes of the monthly meetings are on our website kilmacolmcc.co.uk

kilmacolm & quarriers

Brunch and Browse, St Fillans Church We look forward to welcoming everyone to Brunch and Browse on Saturday 9th December but please note that there will be NO Brunch and Browse in January 2018. We shall be open again on Saturday 10th February and look forward to seeing everyone then. kilmacolm & quarriers

On the 11th at 11am in a really busy Cargill the 2 minute silence was impeccably observed, the short service conducted by The Rev Dr Peter McEnhill. Thanks to Gordon Porter for the flying of the union flag on the village flagpole.

The Youth Organisation’s parade to St Columba’s Church on Remembrance Sunday was really well attended. The Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Brownies and Guiders numbered close to 100. Congratulations are due to Stuart Wilson for reintroducing what was a regular occurrence many years ago and for arranging the St Columba’s pipe band to lead. The band had a busy day, as it lead the larger parade in Port Glasgow at 12.30pm.

The ceremony at the Memorial on Lochwinnoch Road continues to grow, I noted 10 wreaths being laid by various village organisations and the Royal British Legion. The service was conducted by messrs McEnhill, Gonzales and Armstrong the Padres for the day.

The bonfire and fireworks was a great success. It takes many volunteers to make it happen. Thanks are due to Lawrie Campbell and his firework team, the boys from South Craigmarloch, Andrew Malcolm, Lyle of the Scart, Sam Johnson, Constable Jamieson, Duchal Nursery for the Guy, Captain Mike, Susie Wilson, James Kelly, James Baxter, Lord McLay for use of the land and too many more to mention.

I attended Gladman’s exhibition of their revised plans for Knapps and North Dennistoun. There are still houses proposed for the bonfire site. I am the vicechair of Clydeplan, the Strategic Planning Authority for the West of Scotland.

Gladman are contesting the recent Strategic Development Plan which indicates housebuilding needs for the Renfrewshire area, of which Kilmacolm is part. The case will go to the Court of Sessions and Clydeplan will defend, in particular, the housing needs figures. Gladman will certainly not wish to reduce them.

Mark Gammon has won the contest to be the best under 16 Bass Trombonist in the West of Scotland. Mark, a pupil at PGHS, will now move onto the Scottish Finals. I can remember him playing the trombone at KPS when the instrument was bigger than him. We have all attended p6/p7 brass performances of varying standards and Mark’s success is a fine example of having to start somewhere.

The draining of the rugby pitches has been delayed until the spring. Consultation has been conducted with St Columba’s and Birkmyre Rugby Club because the delay in certain legalities meant that works would be starting during the winter months, all agreed that this would be troublesome.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Community Centre Cafe Licence Tenders The Kilmacolm Community Centre is a thriving, well used facility in the village, and the busy Cafe is a popular venue within the Centre.

The three-year Agreement Term of the Contract to manage the cafe is due for renewal on 28th February 2018.

The Board of Directors of KNCCC therefore invites interested parties to tender for the contract to manage the Cafe facility.

Tenders to be addressed to Mrs H Calvert (Chair, KNCC) Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4LE by Monday 18th December 2017, with Interviews to be held early in January 2018.

All the Remembrance Parades, including the one in Kilmacolm now require, on Police Scotland insistence a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order. This will result in considerable extra cost as a TTRO costs £200 a time plus the cost of the advert. The Council only received this notification on the 26th October, but will be appealing via the Chief Executive. We have excellent policing locally but I sometimes wonder about HQ. I had the pleasure of cutting the ribbon to open the new Poundworld shop at the Port Glasgow Retail Park. This will go down as one of the highlights of my political career. Pound shops have been an increasingly popular addition to the retail offer. Boots and Next are due to open soon and the Retail Park has been really significant in promoting Port Glasgow. It has brought jobs and long overdue prestige to the town.

I wish everybody a happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

My surgery is 2nd at the Cargill 10am - 11am. I can be contacted at HYPERLINK “mailto:david. wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk”david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk 01475 741969, 712727 and 07766 992294

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december 2017 kilmacolm & quarriers

42nd Kilmacolm Scout Christmas Post

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Scout Hall, Kilmacolm.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Christmas announcements for Mount Zion Church Christmas Celebrations in Quarriers Village

Pastor Andy Lunn, and the members of Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village invite you to celebrate Christmas with us. At this festive time of year we remember Jesus the light of the world who came down into darkness to be our Saviour.

Sunday 17th and 24th December, Family Service at 10.30 am This year we have two Christmas family services in the Church; we will sing Carols and think about what Christmas really means to us in fun and engaging ways.

Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight at 7pm Our annual Carols by Candlelight is a special time to be in our Church out in the countryside, contemplating the true meaning of Christmas. This service will include musical items from our church and young people. Come early for a good seat!

Followed by seasonal refreshments.

Christmas Day - Family Celebration at 10.30 am

San ay 9th 8th, (lower) Saturd ay id Fr r) pe (up m Kilmacol e Sunday 10th Quarriers Villag

Santa will set off each night at 6pm and will try to finish each route by 8.30pm. kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

fo r

‘OUTLOOK’ is a social community group in Kilmacolm, that was created to welcome everyone, young and old, to come to share friendship and fellowship together. It is led by the Community Issues team of Kilmacolm Old Kirk. The group meets In Kidston Hall on 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoons monthly, from 2pm to 4pm. The programme includes invited Speakers, afternoon tea, items of community issues discussion, dates for your diary, plus entertaining activities.

PROGRAMME – October to December 7th December

With our Minister - Rev Peter McEnhill

Thank you to everyone in the local community who supports the Kilmacolm Scout Group. kilmacolm & quarriers

Christian Aid Kilmacolm ADVENT is a time when we reflect the approach to Christmas in waiting for the birth of Christ. Christian Aid during Advent is reflecting the light - ‘Feed the hungry and help those in trouble, help the light to shine’. At the end of Christmas it is estimated that households in UK will have thrown away 23,000 tons of food. To help feed the hungry please make a small donation in lieu of a food purchase - for every pound you give between November and 5th February 2018 the UK government will give a pound more - that’s double the support to help people living in poverty. Donate online at christianaid.org.uk/Christmas, or send a cheque to Freepost RSURYSTS-KJUL Christian Aid, 35-41 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7RL. Or pick up a donation envelope at churches in Kilmacolm. Thank You. kilmacolm & quarriers

Advent Carol Service Sunday 3rd December, 6pm St Fillan’s Church Hall, Kilmacolm.

Come and prepare for the Season before Christmas with Angel Voices & Voices+ Community Children’s Choir, with this lovely Service on the theme of Light and Darkness through Music, Readings and Advent Carols.

Refreshments after the Service.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Ardgowan Hospice Coffee Morning Kilmacolm Hospice

Friends

of

Ardgowan

We would like to thank all those who attended and gave donations at the Coffee Morning held on Saturday 11th November.

We raised just over £2,500 and would like to thank everyone for their generosity.

kilmacolm & quarriers

St Fillan’s Church St Fillan’s Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm The Annual Community Nine Lessons and Carols will be on Friday 22nd December at 7pm. Mulled Wine and Mince Pies after the Service.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Sa

coming to tow eigh isout for l n S ’s Look ... a in ng vi t ri n ta & his Elves ar

Once again we are pleased to announce that we will be providing a Christmas card postal service.

We will deliver Christmas cards to residential areas of Kilmacolm.

To ensure the safety of our young people, we can only deliver to residential areas – so no farms or rural properties! From Friday 1st December until 4pm on Friday 15th December you can post your Christmas cards in the Scout post box in either The Kilmacolm Community Centre or The Cross Café. A minimum 30p donation is kindly requested for each card.

The cards will be delivered during the weekend of the 16th and 17th December.

Plus, Christmas Tea followed by Carols at the Piano with Sandra The OUTLOOK team of Margaret Cook, Sandra Crawford, Andrea Hargreaves, Gordon McGibbon, Rae McPhee, Heather Mutch, Catriona Miller, Judy Adams and Jill Russell invite you to Come along, bring a friend, spread the word that OUTLOOK is for fellowship and friendship.

OKFest 2018 - Early bird notice of OKFest 2018 Kilmacolm’s music and literature festival will be taking place over the weekend 2nd - 4th March 2018.

Mark it in your calendars now and look out for details in future editions of the magazine’.

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52SPEAKER MEETINGS at the RIVER INN September 20th, Ross Lamb of Bowel Cancer UK Ross gave a very clear explanation of the risks of bowel cancer (the fourth most common cancer and the second biggest killer) and the work of the charity whose objectives include raising awareness and persuading people to take up the offer of screening for all 50 -74 year-olds. 98% of those diagnosed early (Stage 1) survive. He also explained the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. More details from www.bowellcanceruk.org.uk.

September 27th, Neil McAllister Neil, President in the year 2012-13, entertained members with a quiz which was won by Mike Pepper and Andrew Macleman.

October 11th, Jacqueline Fairley of Corseford School Jacqueline is the Registered Manager for Short breaks at Corseford School where she has taken over responsibility for the Toy Library which was funded by a £10,000 grant from Gryffe Valley Rotary. The specialist toys (laser projectors, bubble machines, interactive soft toys) and tablets which have been designed for the use of severely-disabled children and young people are available for use in the school and also via a loan system to allow home trials before purchase – an especially useful service given their cost. Further information is available from jacqueline.fairley@capability-scotland.org.uk.

the advertizer November 8th, Derek Milne on “Transport of Valuable Goods”.

Derek is Head of Security for the Malcolm Group and was introduced to speak by John Melrose (who is one of Malcolms’ nominees to Rotary). Derek explained that there has been a huge growth in the storage and transport of whisky and with it many security challenges have developed. 65 million cases are handled in a year. A lorry load can be worth £175,000. Malcolm’s has an excellent reputation in this area and multiple security accreditations. They utilise regular training and modern technology in their constant efforts to protect their cargoes and their drivers and they work with their partners in DIPS – the Distribution Industry Partnership Scotland (Derek is Vice-Chair) - and the Scottish Business Resilience Centre.

Derek Milne

EVENT PLANNER The following events have been confirmed: Tuesday 21st November 2017: Youth Speaks - Teams have been confirmed from St Columba’s and Gryffe High School. The competition will be held at Kilmacolm Community Centre. Parents and friends welcome.

Wed 13th December 2017: Christmas Dinner at the River Inn for members, partners and friends Sat 20th January 2018: Burn’s Supper. Annual event. Great food and entertainment in the traditional style. Tickets for sale from members.

Mon 22nd to Thurs 25th January 2018: Evenings out for up to 80 Young Carers at The Experience Wed 14th February 2018: Valentines Dinner for members and partners.

Advertising will be put in place to promote the Annual 10K run, being arranged for Sunday 29th April 2018. The date is chosen to allow four months of training after the Christmas and New Year celebrations!

FUTURE SPEAKERS • 15th Nov – ‘The Fage Family’ - guest of Ronnie Mercer

Jacqueline Fairley October 18th, Prof Iain Macleod on “Engineering Energy” Iain is a former Professor of Structural Engineering and Past President of the Institute of Engineering and Shipbuilding in Scotland (IESIS). He is chair of the IESIS Energy Strategy Group which brings together experts in the field of energy, many of whom served in senior engineering roles in the energy industry. Iain has been a strong advocate for the importance of Engineering and a logical systematic engineering approach to solving major problems, including, in Scotland, the M74 extension and the new Queensferry Crossing.

Through the IESIS Energy Group, Iain has come to understand the disconnect between governments’ ( EU, UK and Scottish) approaches to reducing carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions and a thorough “engineering approach”. The Group is convinced that the present market-driven and subsidy policies are leading to an over-dependence on highly intermittent wind power and solar power, and Scotland in particular will be at increasing risk of extended black-outs because the electrical system becomes increasingly unstable as large generating plants are closed and not replaced. Electricity will become increasingly expensive.

The Group believe that the future clean electricity system needs to be planned.

A detailed computational model of the whole electricity system would give predictions of the lowest cost mix of generation sources that would provide secure, stable and clean electricity for power, transport and domestic heating. Chairman Neil McAllister congratulated Iain on his work and stimulating presentation.

Prof Iain Macleod

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• 22nd Nov – Ian Quinn, Broadcaster – guest of Dan Mungin • 29th Nov – ‘Would you fly with my family?’ - Mike Pepper All the meetings are at the River Inn, 7.00 for 7.30pm, with a meal followed by the speaker.

Volunteers needed If you have a spare couple of hours a week and would like the opportunity to support a local cause, Ardgowan Hospice are in desperate need for volunteers within their retail shops, we have vacancies from sales assistant to clerical support, no experience is necessary as full training is provided. For more information contact Linda Kelly, Retail Development Manager, linda.kelly@ardhosp.co.uk or 07919216353 kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Xmas Cards Jim Wood’s Xmas card this year is from his oil painting ; “Kilmacolm -Early Winter’s Evening Market Place-late 1890’s” The painting is on display in Threads and the cards are now available for sale in Threads and the Post Office.

t: 01505 613340

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december 2017 UK Parliamentary Boundary Changes The Boundary Commission for Scotland have launched a further period of public consultation in respect of their review of the UK Parliamentary Constituencies.

This arises from the proposal to reduce the total number of MPs in the UK from 650 to 600, and the number in Scotland from 59 to 53.

The Commission are not seeking responses on the reduction of seats. They are tasked with the revision of boundaries to implement the planned reduction.

Their initial proposals for the Renfrewshire area would have seen some changes to the two existing seats in Renfrewshire, namely Paisley & Renfrewshire North and Paisley in Renfrewshire South. Both seats would have increased in size by taking in parts of East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde as the intention is to create seats containing around 75,000 voters.

However, the Boundary Commission have now revised their proposals and have launched a further 8 week consultation which closes on 11 December.

The revised proposals are substantially different from their previous proposals.

They now suggest the creation of a burgh constituency (Paisley) which would take in Paisley, Renfrew, Inchinnan, Linwood, Barrhead, Neilston and Uplawmoor.

A second county constituency (Renfrewshire West) would take in Johnstone, Elderslie, Houston, Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch. The remainder of the constituency would then take in a large geographical area extending in to Ayrshire down to the coast, including Largs and West Kilbride and the islands of Great Cumbrae and Little Cumbrae.

The area of Renfrewshire including Erskine, Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank would fall in to a new constituency otherwise made up by the Inverclyde Council area.

The Renfrewshire Council website has a link to the Electoral boundaries interactive map where you can use the zoom button to find your property within the map.

The check boxes will allow you to identify your correct polling station, polling district and ward boundary. Click on your property to bring up a list informing you of your Ward Number, Ward Name, Westminster Constituency, Holyrood Constituency and Polling Place.

You will be able to download a map of your specific area. at: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/electoralmap Should you wish to respond to the consultation, please follow the link from the Renfrewshire Council website at: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/6301/UK-Parliamentary-BoundaryChanges Remember, the consultation closes on 11 December 2017.

Gavin Newlands Brexit Over the past year, much of my work in Westminster has involved scrutinising the UK Government’s progress in negotiations with the European Union regarding Brexit. At times, this can be a frustrating process with a UK government unwilling to bend to reasoned concessions whilst failing to provide adequate information to move forward.

Independent analysis suggest that a hard Brexit could cost 80,000 jobs in Scotland and cost people an average of £2,000 in wages. That’s why it’s really important that we secure the right Brexit deal for Scotland that protects jobs in Scotland and also household budgets.

It’s also about guaranteeing the residency status of the 3 million EU nationals who have made the UK their home, including the 900 that live in Paisley and Renfrewshire North.

As we move closer to the day of our exit from the EU, I hope that the UK Government can engage in a cross party approach to ensure that we receive the best deal from Brexit.

Review sets out target to boost town centre car parking in Renfrewshire

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Councillors are considering a review of car parking arrangements in Renfrewshire which aims to boost the number of spaces available to businesses and visitors in town centres. The changes set out in the review outline a desire to generate increased footfall in Renfrew, Johnstone and Paisley town centres, and identifies an increased turnover of parking spaces as one of the ways to achieve this.

The report, set before the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board on Wednesday 8 November, also includes proposals to modernise parking meters to enable cash, card and contactless payments to benefit visitors to the area.

If approved, the recommendations will see parking in on and off street council zones continue to remain free on a Saturday and Sunday across Renfrewshire.

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: "We want to encourage shoppers and visitors into Renfrewshire and these proposals seek to make it easier for people to visit our town centres and give a boost to local businesses.

"It is important there is a turnover of parking spaces to allow people to drive into the town centre and have the opportunity to leave their car while they visit the shops, which may currently not be available due to long stay parking.

"This, combined with the modernisation of existing meters to accept card payments, should lead to an increased footfall in our larger town centres and be of real benefit to the local economy."

Parking costs in Paisley have remained controlled in Paisley town centre since 2012, with the new proposals recommending a 10p increase to parking tariffs per 30 minutes and an extra 50p for four hours parking, with a view to increasing short stay parking.

The review would see parking tariffs introduced into Johnstone and Renfrew town centres, bringing them into line with Paisley, with the aim of boosting effective parking supply and supporting local businesses by displacing longer stay parking to the edges of town centres, freeing up short stay space at retail centres.

There would also be an upgrade to existing parking meters with the majority of current meters approaching the end of their lifespan and requiring to be replaced.

New meters would be installed which will accept cash, card and contactless payment to allow for easier use of Pay and Display zones at council car parking facilities. A further recommendation of the report seeks the approval of a charge for parking permits for approximately 1,000 residents in Paisley who live within Pay and Display zones.

Issuing parking permits to residents in Paisley to allow them to park for free within Pay and Display zones currently costs the Council an estimated £50,000 per year in administrative costs. The new proposal would see an annual £50 charge introduced in Renfrewshire to cover these costs and allow resources to be reinvested in other areas.

This will align the Council with the majority of local authorities who currently issue a charge for parking permits, with annual payments ranging from £45 to £190, excluding Glasgow and Edinburgh.

If approved, the changes would be introduced on a phased approach, with initial changes in Paisley beginning in April 2018 and the roll out to Renfrew and Johnstone taking place in 2019.

Local Band’s Success in Canada Many congratulations to these local lads - Single by Sunday - who have WON ‘Best Emerging International Artist Award’ at the Indie Week Awards Night at the ‘Mod Club’ in Toronto. The vote was decided by over 100 Music Industry Professionals! www.facebook.com/SingleBySunday ~ www.singlebysunday.com

Remembrance Day The Director General of The Royal British Legion recently attended Parliament and challenged all parliamentarians to race against members of the armed forces in a bid to raise money for the annul poppy appeal. I was delighted to take part in this challenge and to do my small part in helping to raise money for the annual poppy appeal.

A couple of weeks later, I attended Remembrance Day ceremonies around the constituency to mark the lives of all of those lost in war and conflict.

As well as remembering it the fallen, it’s important that we also use this occasion to remember their friends and families. They bear the greatest burden from the service personnel who have lost their lives, and it’s only right that we remember their sacrifice.

Regardless of the rights and wrong of war, it’s important that everyone unites around and remembers the brave sacrifice of our servicemen and women.

Surgery: A reminder that my Gryffe surgeries are still held on a monthly basis where constituents can raise any issue with me and to seek any assistance that I can offer.

On the 2nd Friday of every month at 12.30pm I’m based in the Carrick Centre in Houston, followed by a 2pm surgery in the Bishopton Library. In addition, on the last Saturday month at 10.30am, I’ll be in ‘The Bridge’ in Bridge of Weir.

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Gryffe High School M.A.D.D. Show 2017 The stage was cleared and the newly refurbished Gryffe High School theatre was the venue for the 7th M.A.D.D. (Music, Art, Drama and Dance) Event. Many departments and groups had worked hard over several months to prepare and rehearse for this evening and it was a delight to see their sense of pride and achievement when they took to the stage to perform. 18 different slots were included, ranging from the Creative Senior Fashion to the lively Gymnastics and the extremely talented musicians and actors.

The Art and Design Advanced Higher class were the main organisers of this event, with the help of the staff. Their enthusiasm and ideas could be seen both on the stage in film, photography, stage set design and varied exhibition in their Folio work to date.

With such talent on view, all were able to be impressed and encouraged to achieve creatively in the future. Pupils need to be inspired and this was the chance for this to happen. The makeup students from West College were kind enough to help us with the stage makeup design.

Thanks also goes to the ‘River Inn’ for their support to the school with contributing to the Theatre Refurbishment and also generously providing a delicious buffet for the Theatre Opening Night for the MADD show.

The full line included something for everyone, with talent in abundance and poignant reminders of our personal responsibilities in informative presentations.

The final vision of everyone on stage dancing to the Cha Cha Slide will be a lasting memory, with full smiles on their faces and live dancing………………..all pupils were collectively being creative and that is what MADD is all about!

every

Monday

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am

£2/family fee incl tea & children’s snacks.

Kilmacolm Playgroup

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am - 11.40am

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group

Howwood Parish Church, 10am - 12noon

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, 9.15am - 11.30am

every Tuesday

Kilbarchan Tots

Kilbarchan Scout Hall, 10am-12noon £2 contribution. Tea, coffee & biscuits.

Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am - 11.40am

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am

every

Wednesday

Kilmacolm Toddlers

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 10am - 11.30am For children from birth to 3 years.

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am

£2/family fee incl tea and children’s snacks.

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am

every Thursday

Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup

Room for Remembrance In preparation for Remembrance Day, all year groups took part in poignant Remembrance Assemblies this week. S6 pupils have been busy selling Poppies for the Scottish Poppy Appeal and our picture shows pupils reflecting with Rev. Kenneth Gray in the Remembrance Room.

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.15am - 11.40am

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am

every

Friday

Langbank Playgroup

Langbank Village Hall, 9.45 - 11.45am For 2.5 - 5yr olds.

Contact Jen Burrows 07947 983025.

Langbank Under 3’s

Church Hall, Langbank, 10am - 11.45am For children from birth to 3 years

Baby and Toddler Group

Elderslie Kirk, Main Rd, Elderslie, 9.30am - 11.30am

£2 includes children’s snack and tea/coffee.

Lots of different toys to play with. All welcome.

Community Bookbug Sessions

Livingstone Hall at St Columba’s Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm.

From 9.30 - 10am

1st & 3rd Friday

Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch, 1pm -2.30pm

£3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa.

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december 2017

Top marks for inspirational Renfrewshire teacher An inspiring teacher from Bishopton Primary has been named top of her profession for her work promoting technology to pupils. Ruth Burnett was named Primary Teacher of the Year at the inaugural Scottish Women in Technology Awards, designed to recognise those who further the role of women in Scotland’s technology sector.

Having previously worked in the technology sector, Ruth became a teacher to ensure pupils have the opportunity to connect with each of the STEM subject areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Ruth said: “It is an honour to win this award from SWiT and to be in such fine company as the other nominees at the award ceremony. I feel that promoting the STEM subjects in primary school is extremely important and have seen first-hand the enthusiasm and excitement in our pupils when tackling various projects.”

Ruth has instigated a link up with the Institution of Primary Engineers. During technologies time, pupils will be developing solutions to challenges and problems by applying their knowledge of STEM subjects and developing new skills. For the initial part of this collaboration, the pupils from P2 to P7 are tasked with interviewing engineers or experts from various jobs within the STEM field. This will allow them to become members of the institution.

Youth Speech Competition St Columba’s High School, the winning team chose to speak on the Topic of: Is the green energy agenda practical enough to ensure the lights will stay on?

Digital Customer Experience Consultant Suzanne Lee nominated Ruth for her award and was one of those invited to speak to the class and spoke in glowing terms of the impact Ruth has had.

Whereas the Notre Dame High School runner ups team chose the Topic of: Should First Aid be a compulsory topic for the school curriculum in view of the recent terrorist incidents?

Suzanne said: “I am so proud that my daughter has such a great teacher who continually goes over and above expectations to give her class the best learning experience she can. She has the ability to inspire and bring a vision of possibilities to the kids which has made a real difference to their education. I’m delighted she has been recognised for her fantastic dedication to her job.”

The Chief Judge Graham McLachlan from Renfrew Speakers Club in reviewing the evening’s performance opened by saying it had been a very well organised Competition and that there was total agreement amongst the Judges on the team that had won and also the team who were the runners up.

The Scotland Women in Technology Awards champion and celebrate women, and the companies and networks around them, who are achieving success in the technology industry in Scotland. The awards also celebrate the success of those in education who drive grassroots initiatives and grow the technology talent pipeline for Scotland.

Councillor Jim Paterson, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Policy Board, said: “I am delighted that Ruth has been recognised for the outstanding work she does to inspire the pupils of Bishopton Primary.

“It is important that we encourage future generations to take an interest in STEM subjects as early in their school life as possible to allow them to develop a passion in what could be a future career choice. Ruth has played a vital part in providing a creative and stimulating environment which allows her pupils to learn about these important subject areas.”

More than 100 nominations were received for the awards which demonstrated the incredible range of talent, experience, expertise and enthusiasm across the country, from the world’s biggest corporations, to some of the smallest classrooms.

For information on all the award winners visit: www.scotwomenintech.com/ swit-awards

They would go forward to the Grand Final in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew on Wednesday 22 November to battle it out with their counterparts from Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire Schools for the John Richardson Quaich Trophy.

He said that Public Speaking had to be audible, to keep a good pace, take your time and look at the audience. Use your notes well, hold them up, type them and use half of a page. Humour was used well and there was good structure to the speeches-well done as was the teamwork. He was amazed at the confidence giving lie that youngsters are poor thinkers.

Renfrew Speakers Club were happy to offer tuition on the art of Public Speaking and for the teachers to contact Bill Leeming in the first instance.

Bill Leeming from Renfrew Speakers Club who had been the Chairman for tonight’s event in conclusion stated it had been a terrific Competition and paid tribute to the funding support from Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire Councils and Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce without which it would not Winning team: St Columba’s High School be possible to run L-R: Chairperson Sally Kane, Main Speaker Hannah McGeehan the Competition and holding the Renfrew Speakers Club 2017 Inverclyde Youth Speech Competition Trophy and Megan Clarke who carried out the Vote provide the prizes. of Thanks.

For the Grand Final he would shortly be issuing to the teacher a different set of Topics. He said all the participants were winners and the Certificate of Achievement should be looked after as it could be useful for CV purposes.

Runners up team: Notre Dame High School L-R: Main Speaker Grace Deveney, Chairperson Megan Alford, Sophia Tucker who carried out the Vote of Thanks

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Bridge of Weir Primary School Our nursery children had great fun recently when Kirstie from Silly Science came to visit and children had the chance to join in some amazing experiments. This was real hands on learning and everyone was fascinated to see how materials changed when they were mixed together. They maybe didn’t realise they were learning about polymers but they loved making glitter slime! At the end of October dressing up was the order of the day when we held our annual Fancy Dress Party.

Outfits included spooky skeletons, fairies, vampires and superheroes and staff joined in the fun with some amazing costumes too.

On a more serious note, P6b shared what they have been learning about Remembrance Day at assembly on November 6th. They told us about the significance of the poppy and why we should remember all the people who have given their lives for their country in wars and conflicts around the world.

Lots of classes made their own poppies and in Primary 3b every poppy included a message for the soldiers who have fought in wars from World War 1 to the present day.

November is a very busy month in school as we prepare for our Christmas Fair. This year we are doing things slightly differently with a big focus on enterprise skills to help children learn about marketing, creativity, budgeting and making a profit. Led by their captains each House has come up with ideas for activities and items to sell at the Fair and there is even a competitive element with points being awarded to the house which makes the biggest profit. Younger pupils are also working together to create “treats and eats” which we are sure parents and friends will be queuing up to buy!

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Strawberry Fields out of school care After a very busy few months we have all settled back into the swing of things. Children enjoyed lots of spooky Halloween activities such as apple dooking, carving their own pumpkins to making a haunted room. Now its time to move onto Christmas. Our children have been mind mapping and have came up with a variety of Christmas activities that they wish to carry out so let the glitter commence.

We are looking forward to our Christmas party and a visit from Santa on the last day of the school holidays.

On behalf of everyone at Strawberry Field Out of School Care can we say a big thank you and have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our children and parents.

If you have any queries or are looking for care please contact us on 01505 615315 or alternatively drop us an email.

Kilmacolm Primary

We have returned after a restful, but not very sunny, October holiday to find ourselves in the midst of Halloween Parties and Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Thanks to our dedicated PTF committee for organising another successful Halloween Disco, the boys and girls, or should I say the ghouls, ghosts and witches all had a fabulous time.

Finally we were very proud of four of our pupils who were awarded prizes in the photography competition which is organised each year by Gryffe Camera Club and the Rotary Club Gryffe Valley. Many thanks to Mr Chambers and Mr King who came along to assembly to present prizes and certificates and, of course, a big “well done” to all our winners!

Thank you for the kind donations to Inverclyde Foodbank at our Harvest Assembly. P6 did a great job of organising the event and their class has enjoyed a visit to the Foodbank to see what happens to all the food which the school donated. Thanks to Fraser Donaldson and his team from Elim Church for helping us to celebrate Harvest with music and lots of fun.

P1 were excited to visit Bookbug at Kilmacolm Library earlier this month, while P3.P3/2,P 6,&P7 walked to Kilmacolm War Memorial as part of their work on Remembrance Sunday.

Mrs McCredie has held her ever popular H.T. Tea Party this month and welcomed; Councillor Stephen McCabe, Active Schools Coordinator Ross Stewart and Community Police Officer PC John Jamieson as special guests.

All the invited guests were extremely excited to receive their invitation in the post and enjoyed tea, cake and a chat. Yum, yum!

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St Columba’s School Alexis Selected for Euroscola Project Congratulations to Alexis Spragg in Senior VI who has been selected to represent Scotland in the Euroscola project next February. Euroscola is a project which involves Rotary Clubs sponsoring a pupil, proficient in French usually at Advanced Higher level, to join a group of school students on a visit to the European Union Parliament in Strasbourg. Students from the 28 EU Member States are selected to become a Member of the European Parliament for one day and take the floor in plenary and committee sessions to debate and vote on resolutions on current affairs while practising their language skills. Commenting on the announcement Alexis said, “I am grateful to the Rotary for such a fantastic opportunity particularly as I plan to study International Business at university next year.”

A Musical Celebration - community event

We are delighted to showcase the musical talents of our Junior and Senior School pupils on the evening of Wednesday 20th December from 7-9.30pm in Greenock Town Hall. Enjoy a magical evening of festive music from our soloists, ensembles, choirs, orchestras and pipe band.

There will also be a number of opportunities to join in with some carols.

Our Master of Ceremonies for the evening is Ian McCrorie MBE and this is sure to be a wonderful evening in the run-up to Christmas.

The event is open to the community and we hope that you will join us.

Tickets cost £10 each and include light refreshments at the interval.

Family ticket for four costs £35, saving £5. Proceeds from the evening go towards the St Columba’s Foundation. To book visit www.st-columbas.org/ amusicalcelebration, t: 01505 872238 or e: dgallacher@st-columbas.org.

#YOYP2018 With Scotland about to celebrate Year of Young People 2018, Maya Sala Sime in Junior 4 has been accepted as one of the hundred 8-26 year-old ambassadors for the initiative and a representative for Renfrewshire. Year of Young People 2018 is an opportunity to celebrate the amazing young personalities, talents, and achievers that make up Scotland. It’s all about inspiring our nation through its young people’s ideas, attitudes and ambitions, and Maya is very excited to be part of the team.

Christmas Fayre - community event We are looking forward to hosting a Christmas Fayre on Saturday 2nd December from 2pm to 5pm in St Columba’s Senior School. Free entry and fun for all the family including crafts, gifts, Christmas baking, Santa’s Grotto, performances by our Junior Choir and Angel Voices, Christmas films, VR experience, games and surprises. The event will be held in the new Girdwood Building at Senior School - please use the Gryffe Road entrance.

Entrance Assessments You are most welcome to make an appointment to visit and see our Early Years, Junior and Senior Schools at work and play. St Columba’s offers academic excellence with a wide range of opportunities for your child and wraparound care from age 3. For those who wish to join us for their sixth year we also offer a wide range of Advanced Higher subjects and are happy to discuss your options with you. Entrance assessments begin on 12th January: • 12th & 15th January - Junior School • 13th January - Senior School (Transitus - Senior VI) • 16th - 17th January - Junior 1 • 18th - 19th January - Early Years (Prep) • 19th - 20th April - Early Years (Nursery) For further information please visit www.st-columbas.org, contact Junior School on 01505 872768 or Senior School on 01505 872238.

Follow us on ColumbaSchool.

facebook.com/stcolumbasschool

and

twitter.com/

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Houston Baby & Toddlers

Kilmacolm Playgroup

What a great time we have had at toddlers recently. We have lots planned for December with Christmas parties and crafts. We have also enjoyed a visit from Heyes Photography where the littleones were stars in front of the camera. The adults have had some fun too with a child free night out and a baby and toddler first aid course.

We’ve kicked off November at playgroup with awesome footie sessions from Morton Football club! It’s a great chance to run around, learn our colours and take instructions. We’ve also been busy exploring healthy eating and had lots of fun making fantastic fireworks-themed crafts!

On the 2nd of December we will be selling ‘nearly new’ goods at Kilmacolm Primary School Christmas Fayre! Come along and grab a festive bargain and support your local playgroup and Primary School!

We are closed for the Christmas holidays (21st & 28th December) returning for fun and games in the new year Thursday 4th January.

We welcome all children age between 0 - 4 years old, together with their parents, grandparents or carers to join in with the games, crafts and play on offer every Thursday.

The children can enjoy playing, making friends and of course snack time while the adults can catch up with a cuppa.

We meet between 9.30am - 11.30am so come along when you are ready to the West Hall, Main street Houston PA67EL (next to the carrick centre)

googlemail.com

Playgroup runs on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings. For more information contact Playgroup On: playgroupmembership@

Our Toddlers group is on Wednesday mornings from 10 - 11.30am and gives 0-3 year olds a chance to play with lots of different toys, make friends, and share a snack, while the grown-ups catch up over a cup of tea. Drop in to find out more, or contact Fiona at kilmacolmtoddlers@outlook.com.

Our website is http://kilmacolmplaygroupandtoddlers@jimdo.com.

We look forward to meeting

Johnstone High School Sporting Success Stories October has been a successful sporting month for the pupils of Johnstone High. Our very own Leon Drynan is the youngest ever person to win the British Indoor Snowboard Title.

At only 14 years old, we are very impressed! We are also celebrating Declan Shaw who boxed his way to victory in the final of the Scottish Novice Championships on Sunday.

Congratulations to Leon and Declan!

Building Relationships Johnstone High hosted our Parents in Partnership event this month. Parents of the new S1 were invited to enjoy a meal, socialise and learn a little more about our school. The evening was well attended by both parents and teachers and was extremely successful.

We also hosted a successful evening for the parents of the current Primary 7 to visit the school. Teachers from every department in the school invited parents and children into their classroom to learn what a typical lesson in Johnstone High looks like. Parents were given the opportunity to ask any questions they had regarding next year while children were given an insight into what to expect at Johnstone High. The evening was a success and we can’t wait to welcome our new S1 next August.

Expressive Arts Fair At Johnstone High we pride ourselves on encouraging the ambitions of all young people. For this reason, we hosted an expressive arts fair and invited pupils from our neighbouring schools to come along. We invited guests from different sectors in the expressive arts such as The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow School of Art and BBC Scotland to give students a taste of what careers in these industries might entail. Pupils were given the chance to ask questions and discuss their future careers with people that are experienced in the field. The event was such a success that plans are already underway to hold the event next year!

St. Fillan’s Primary This term is always a busy time for us in St. Fillan’s Primary School, especially with Christmas being just around the corner!

This month, one of our Primary 4 pupils Juliet has been working hard to raise money to support the charity work of the ‘Mary’s Meals’ organisation.

We are very proud of Juliet and the kindness that she has shown in her efforts to raise funds for this charity.

Here is Juliet’s story: Eight-year-old Juliet from Renfrewshire launched the ‘Double The Love’ campaign at her school assembly!

After telling her P4 classmates all about Mary’s Meals, Juliet was invited to address the whole school – so she took to the stage with her Mary’s Meals collection mugs, a short video and a PowerPoint presentation.

“It costs less than five Happy Meals to feed a hungry child for a whole year – I think Mary’s Meals are the happiest meals in the world!” said Juliet.

Now Juliet hopes her school friends will pop a few coins into the blue mugs in each classroom, knowing that every donation will be matched and help twice as many children.

“I want to raise £13.90 – then we will feed TWO children for a whole school year!”

The whole school community is all set to support Juliet in her efforts and we hope to raise as much money as we can to support this worthwhile cause.

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Kilmacolm musician Houston Primary School crowned West of Scotland champion An Inverclyde teenager has hit the high notes after winning a prestigious music contest.

Bass trombone player and Riverside Youth Band member Mark Gammon won the West of Scotland under 16 Solo Championship and gained a Gold Award with his performance of The Acrobat at the competition in Kilmarnock on Saturday, October 28.

Mark, a third year pupil at Port Glasgow High School, now qualifies for the Besson Scottish Solo and Ensemble Championships in Livingston in February 2018.

The 14 year-old, from Kilmacolm, said: “I was quite nervous as it was my first time taking part in the competition but I have been lucky to perform on stage with Riverside Youth Band quite a lot over the past few years and that gave me the confidence to just go for it.

“The standard was really high and I gained lots of useful feedback from the adjudicator, Stuart Black, so that will really help with my preparation for the Scottish finals in February.”

Baritone player and fellow Riverside Youth Band member Siobhan Crumlish also enjoyed success at the West of Scotland Solo Championships, with the Inverclyde Academy pupil gaining a Gold Award in the same competition.

Harvest Assembly This year Pastor Dougie Adam led our Harvest Assembly, much to the pupils delight sharing the important message through cartoons.

Our stage was filled with freshly harvested items and food donations for those less fortunate in our local area. Many thanks to all the families who kindly donated. The food items were delivered and gratefully received by the Renfrewshire Foodbank.

We also had the pleasure in welcoming some local senior citizens for tea and coffee to share in our Harvest celebrations. They enjoyed themselves so much, that a few of the ladies have agreed to come back to take part in our new reading initiative.

The Gardening Club shared their Harvest success telling their story from sowing the seeds to harvesting their crop. The potato crop was particularly successful this year and so Mrs Morrison and her team decided that the children should enter the GYOP competition and they won £100 worth of garden centre vouchers. The children were delighted and are now planning what to buy.

Countdown to Christmas Christmas Fayre 7th December

Competitors came from as far afield as Irvine, Dalmellington and Campbeltown to take part in the event, which comprised solo and ensemble competitions for brass players aged under 12, under 16 and under 21-years-old.

The Junior and Senior Choir have started rehearsing for their Carol Concerts on 14th December and already they are sounding amazing.

The Nursery and Primary 1-3 pupils are also busy rehearsing for their Christmas performances. Please see the school website for more details.

In an interesting twist, the trophy Mark received for winning the competition was won by Riverside Youth Band’s conductor, Mark Good, in 2004.

Mark Good, Musical Director, said: “Congratulations to young Mark for a very fine performance at the West of Scotland Solo Championships. He has worked very hard throughout the year, progressing well, and winning the prize for Most Improved Player in Riverside Youth Band earlier in 2017. I wish him all the best for the Scottish finals next year, where I know he will represent Inverclyde with pride.”

The success comes as tickets are now on sale for the Riverside Youth Band Christmas concert in Port Glasgow Town Hall on Friday, December 22 at 7.30pm: www.ticketsource.co.­uk/ riverside-youth-band Riverside Youth Band rehearses on Friday evenings in St John’s Hall, Port Glasgow. More information is available by emailing Laura Good, secretary of Riverside Youth Band on secretary@­ riversideyouthband.co.uk or searching for Riverside Youth Band on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

The school Christmas Fayre is on 7th December where you will find a wide variety of items on sale which will make ideal Christmas gifts. Santa will of course being making a special visit.

Please come along and support this festive event. Doors open at 6.30pm.

Duchal Nursery With some “ghoulishly delightful” outfits from the children, we had lots of “spook-tacular” fun, mess and laughter on Halloween with our apple ducking and marshmallow games.

Everyone really got into the “spirit” of the occasion, there were some “fang-tastic” jokes, “hair-raising” tales and “boo-tiful” tunes - a truly magical time!

We had a fantastic visit from our local Community Police Officers PC Kirsty and PC John who came along with their Police Van and were great with the children. Telling us about what they do, and adding to our discussions about people that help us. We had some budding police officers as the children and teachers (!) tried on uniform and tested out the handcuffs, and we even had a go inside the van!!!

As the end of term gets closer we start to get in the mood for the Festive season and can’t wait for our annual trip to the Tron Theatre in Glasgow for much Christmas cheer.

There are lots of Christmas decorations busily being made and preparations are well under way for our annual Nativity and Christmas party.

There are a few limited spaces in the nursery at present, or if you are looking for a place for 2018 onwards please do get in touch. We are happy for visits to see our facilities and meet the teachers at any time, please contact us on: 01505 874358 to arrange a convenient time. Also visit our website at: www.duchal.com or find us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news Riverside Youth Band member Mark Gammon receives his trophy from adjudicator, Stuart Black, at the West of Scotland Solo Championships.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from all at Duchal Nursery.

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Strathgryffe Club Dinner

Birkmyre RFC - under 13’s

Strathgryffe Tennis Squash & Fitness Club continued with its 25th Anniversary Celebrations on Friday 3rd November with the annual Club Dinner Awards. The event, which was held at the club, saw the lounge bar being transformed into a classy restaurant with outside caterers supplying a delicious three course meal.

On Sunday the U13s met Strathaven in a T4 West game. Both teams were unbeaten going into the game. Birkmyre started the faster scoring straight from the kick-off. That advantage was pushed as lovely handling and hard rucking saw 3 more tries for Birkmyre in the first of three halves.

After dinner the Club Championship prizes were awarded to all categories

by Club President John Graham. The excellent coaching pathway provided at Strathgryffe was seen in full for both tennis and squash as the youngsters cleaned up with all the Open Singles titles.

Strathaven came back strong in the second period and the game turned into a bruising affair. The Birkmyre boys did manages to stretch their lead with 2 more tries. The third period say one try each with lots of defensive efforts from both sides.

Final score Birkmyre 21 - 4 Strathaven. This was Birkmyre U13s fifth win from five.

In tennis, for the 5th year in a row, Lee Wishart (20) won the Gents Singles and for the 3rd time in a row Anna Daisley (18) won the Ladies Singles.

The squash titles went to John Meehan (15) who won the Gents singles for the first time and Beth Moglia (14) who won the Ladies singles for the second time.

The presentation of prizes was followed by a disco which was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to Caroline Eadie, Margo Maxwell & Lesley Smith who organised the evening and to George Maxwell who was the very entertaining MC.

Kilmacolm Golf Club Ladies

Strathgryffe offers a 12 month a year coaching programme for juniors and adults for both tennis & squash. For more information please visit www.

Strathgryffe.net or tel reception on 01505 615100.

4 competitors, well wrapped up. Amazingly they wore team colours accidentally! The winners of the Fun Final Swing Competition & Marr Trophy were Ann Tanner & Judy Scholes.

Kilmacolm Golf Club Juniors

On Thursday 19th October, we had our last competition of the season.

Juniors’ Day was finally played on Sunday 29th October.

The trophy winners were Harry Kellock winning the Rosebowl & Romy Erskine winning the Paterson Cup. Captain Kenneth Wilson presented the prizes.

It had an added incentive as the winners & runners up won the Lady Captain’s Day prizes [postponed from the summer months because of wet weather] & the beautiful Marr Trophy.

The Ladies Section has raised an amazing amount of money for charity this year. These charities include Erskine, CHAS, Red Cross, Breast Cancer & Pancreatic Cancer Scotland.

The total came to £3,472.95. Thank you to everyone at Kilmacolm Golf Club for their generous contributions.

The traditional day in August for all age groups & all levels of golfers

Thank you to the Advertizer for publishing our events & for their support.

Signing off as Lady Captain very soon.

Best wishes to all.

had to be abandoned because of torrential rain. It will be back in the fixture diary for August 2018!

Lois Brown

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december 2017

Kilmacolm Golf Club Junior AGM There was a great turnout for the Junior AGM and Prize Giving at Kilmacolm Golf Club on Sunday 12th November. Family members joined the youngsters, along with officials from the R.G.U. to hear about the successes of the girls and boys, both in the club and at county level.

It has been a busy year at the club with over 60 youngsters playing in the various competitions over 7, 10 and 18 holes. The new junior handicap system over the shortened course and the continuation of the eclectic competition encouraged many girls and boys to take part.

A full list of prize winners can be seen on the club website but special mention of a few juniors Harry Kellock, the junior captain won the Combes Trophy, Centenary Bowl and the 18 hole Eclectic, young Scott Newman a member of many team successes and for the second year winner of the R.G.U. under 15 Order of Merit and Mackenzie Holmes the Junior Champion and winner of the Junior Player of the Year.

We look forward to 2018, an exciting time at the club with so many talented and enthusiastic young golfers.

Lynda Bradley, Junior Convenor

Brookfield Tennis Club

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The Gents recently held their finals, which had been delayed several times due to the weather. The winners were Peter Fraser & Graham Cook.

Castle Semple Sailing Club Annual Prize Giving and Winchester Whacky Winter Pursuit Series The end of the sailing calendar at Castle Semple Sailing Club in October meant that after the Autumn Work Party the following weekend saw the start of the Winchester Whacky Winter Pursuit Series. Weeks 1 and 2 were memorable for their lack of wind but plenty of sunshine. Sailing in light winds can be as challenging as more windy conditions especially when the wind has a mind of its own and was in this direction and then that direction - turning 180deg at a moment’s notice. However, the stunning sun all day made up for the wind’s antics.

The club held is annual prize giving on 11th November in the McKillop Hall to tie in with the village ceilidh.

After the prize giving and ceilidh (and the odd investigation of the Brown Bull) on Saturday night there were a couple of people definitely not looking their best on Sunday Morning.

On Saturday evening those sponsors who were at the prize giving (Jan Gordon (Jim Gordon Series), Paul O’Neil (O’Neill GP14 trophy) and Brian Young and Alan Falconer (Asymmetric Cup)) duly presented their trophies to the winners, who had managed to make the evening and were not stranded on the M8 awaiting rescue by the AA - although with the aid of modern technology Team Pam did manage to facetime into the evening.

Thanks also to Steve C for putting together the slides at short notice and to Steve D for getting the all important wine (there was a worrying moment when it was thought that the wine might not last the hour but .....thankfully lasted with one bottle to spare (so lucky Team Pam didn’t make it!), and to Alice Lawrie for the photographs.

Ranfurly Castle

Thanks to all those who made the effort to come along and support the evening on Saturday, and those who joined the ceilidh had a great time too.

Ranfurly Castle Ladies held their Annual Dinner on Wed 25th October with 54 ladies attending. Captain Pamela MacKenzie welcomed everyone and introduced some of our new Lady members attending the dinner for the first time. A delicious meal followed and the presentation of the food was of the highest standard as was the service.

A big thank you to Stewart Catering for all their hard work.

The evening saw all the Medal prizes for the year being presented along with team prizes for the fun competitions, held throughout the year. One special award of a framed Certificate was presented to Nancy MacGadie, in recognition of her Hole in One earlier in the summer.

The golf season is now over but the Ladies are still meeting for informal golf on Monday and Wednesday mornings at 9.30am where all are welcome. The Xmas 12 hole competition and lunch will be the next Ladies event on Wednesday 6th December, where some Christmas attire should be worn!

The Children’s Christmas party will be held on Saturday 2nd December and it is hoped that Santa will find the time to pay a visit.

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Olympic curling stars Eve Muirhead and brothers urge everyone to ‘love their freezers’ Olympic Bronze Medallist Eve Muirhead and brothers Glen and Thomas, who are no strangers to freezing conditions, are working with Zero Waste Scotland to call on people to embrace their freezers and help cut food waste.

Scots throw away £1.1 billion worth of good food every year, despite the fact that much of this food could have been frozen and eaten at a later date.

Eve, Glen and Thomas Muirhead on the ice with Iain Gulland

To mark European Week for Waste Reduction 2017, Zero Waste Scotland is launching a campaign to encourage everyone to ‘Love their Freezers’.

Backing the campaign is the famous curling family, who are currently preparing for the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea in February 2018.

Walking Buddies If you enjoy the great outdoors then why not try to walk towards better health by joining a Walking Buddies group. The Johnstone-based group meets at 9.30am every Tuesday, leaving from 31 Maple Drive.

Walks last for around an hour and are suitable for all ages and abilities. This is a great way to get active and meet new people.

For more information, phone 0141 258 9923 or send an email to info@ activecommunities.co.uk

With food waste a 1.35 million tonnes annual problem in Scotland, Zero Waste Scotland is encouraging people to think of their freezer before heading for the waste bin. For example, Zero Waste Scotland recently highlighted the staggering scale of potato waste: every day in Scotland, we bin around 500,000 spuds.

Eve, Glen and Thomas Muirhead, all members of Team GB’s Winter Olympic curling team, said: “With all three of us training so frequently there wasn’t always time to cook from fresh every day. We remember that mum or dad would often batch cook nutritious meals and then they were just ready to heat through before we rushed out the door.

We had no idea the scale of food waste in Scotland and it will make us think twice about using our freezers more now we all live away from home.”

every

Monday

Adult Jazz Class

Bridge of Weir, 10am Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

Zumba Light

St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm, 10am.

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information.

Adult Beginners Ballet Class Bridge of Weir, 11.30am

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

every

Wednesday

Greenock Hockey Club Inverclyde Academy, Greenock, 6.30 - 8pm Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005.

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 5.15, 6.15 & 7.30pm

Hatha Yoga

Large Hall, St Columba Church, 6.30 - 8pm Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272.

Kilbarchan Athletic Club

every Thursday

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

On-X, Linwood, 7pm

On-X, Linwood, 7pm

5-a-side Football

Powerleague Paisley, 6pm Tel: Jim on 01505 874215; or jimbretherton@aol.com

Step Class

Kilbarchan Athletic Club All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Kilmacolm Walkers

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm, 10am David 01505 874192 kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

Freelands Church (Opposite Amaretto), 6.30pm.

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information.

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, 7.30pm

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 7.15pm

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club

The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan, 9pm - 10.30pm Visit www.strathgryffe.org for details.

The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands Primary, Linwood, 7-8pm/8-9pm www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

Hatha Yoga

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands PS, Linwood, 7pm & 8pm www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

Football Training

Johnstone High School, 6pm - 9pm Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details

Taekwon-Do

Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm Call 07951 365166 for details

Baby Ballet

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Morning Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details

Tweedie Halls, Linwood, 10 - 11am Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272.

every Tuesday

Bridge of Weir Walking Group

Falun Dafa practice

Port Glasgow Library 17:00 - 19:00 With five gentle exercises, Falun Dafa is an ancient self-cultivation practice based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance.

Friday

Outside the Co-op, BoW, 10.30am

every

1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000.

Callanetics

Gryffe Badminton

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

Football Training

Johnstone High School, 6pm - 9pm Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details.

Taekwon-Do Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm Call 07951 365166 for details.

Iain Gulland, Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It may be getting colder outside, but at home people could be making much better use of their freezer to get the best from their food and minimise waste.

“We know from our work in communities throughout Scotland that people are often unsure about what can and cannot be frozen. For example, people don’t always realise it’s safe to freeze almost any food before the use by date on the packaging and then defrost in the fridge. We need to dispel these myths and demonstrate to everyone that most food can be frozen.”

As such, Zero Waste Scotland is releasing its top ‘Freezer Rules’ to dispel the myths around freezing food: It’s safe to freeze food up until the use by date. Freezing acts as a pause button on your food.

Freeze ahead: vegetables and gravy for your roast dinner can easily be prepared and frozen in advance to save you time and stress on busy days.

You can freeze just about anything. Cream (whip it a little beforehand) and cheeses like Stilton freeze really well, just put them in an airtight bag or container and store in the freezer.

Once defrosted, the pause button is off. So, just defrost your food as you need it. Use food within one to two days after it’s been defrosted – it will go off in the same way as if it were fresh.

If you defrost raw meat or fish and then cook it thoroughly, you can freeze it again, but remember never re-heat foods more than once.

Roseanna Cunningham MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, said: “The freezing campaign from Love Food Hate Waste is a great opportunity to demonstrate that simply by making small changes in our lifestyle, we can reduce food waste significantly.

“In Scotland, we’re working towards a 33% reduction in food waste by 2025. That’s one of the most ambitious target in Europe, and everyone in Scotland has an important part to play in helping the country achieve that goal.

“It’s a win-win situation - simple things like using your freezer to its full potential will save money, and help achieve our national target.”

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

Adult Tap Lessons

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Evening Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details

every

Sunday

KILMACOLM BOWLING CLUB LADIES SECTION

Birkmyre Rugby Club, Kilmacolm Youth Rugby Section, 11am - 1pm www.pitchero.com/clubs/birkmyre

info@advertizer.co.uk

n

01505 613340

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LADY MEMBERS WANTED Try your hand at Green Bowling at the ladies’ a�ernoons. Games commence at 2pm on every Tuesday and Thursday a�ernoons. Come along for the a�ernoon and have a game.

Bowls will be provided, flat shoes required.

For details contact Sandra on 01505 873126 or Morag on 01505 872218 or just come along and have some fun.

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december 2017

Birkmyre RFC Calum Hall Former Captain and current Player of the Year Calum Hall was recently selected to play in a development game for the Scottish Saltires, the Scottish Police national team. The game against the Scottish Navy ended in a victory for the Saltires and the squad will be selected soon to play a home international series.

Hatha Yoga

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On Wednesdays 6.30 pm - 8pm in the large hall at St. Columba Church and on Mondays in the Tweedie Halls, Linwood (previously held in Brookfield for 17 years) from 10am - 11am.

Both these classes are available to all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. Both are friendly, lively environments.

For further information please contact Janice on 07968 207272.

Sporting Blog Golf Fitness

by Lesley Handley

Some people will argue that you don’t have to be massively fit to play golf, and you certainly don’t need to train either in or out of the gym. While this is true if you are happy with how you play, becoming fitter and stronger and targeting the key muscles required in golf always helps. Especially as you get older and general fitness and strength starts to deteriorate slightly.

I was once told that if you walk round a golf course you will generally find the fullest bin at the 9th or 10th tee, as it is a common trait that at the halfway point someone will eat their banana, or pull out the tub of sweets to keep their energy up. This is a clear sign that they are starting to lack a bit of energy and looking to get some extra fuel. Cardio fitness is the first important aspect for golf… you need to be fit enough to be able to walk round 18 holes and keep up the same level of consistency in your golf game. As soon as you start to tire your golf swing changes and isn’t as efficient.

In terms of muscular strength, the key muscle in the lower body is the gluteus maximus (your buttock). While the key upper body muscles were the pectoralis major (chest), latissimus dorsi (back), core and forearm muscles.

The gluteus maximus is responsible for hip external and internal rotation on the backswing and downswing as well as hip extension which is what gets you into a nice balanced posture during your finish. The pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi create strong shoulder adductors which allows you to bring your arms across your body and raise them up in the air.

The core which I consider the glue that holds the swing together transmits force from the lower body into the upper body and helps you rotate your torso, whilst allowing you to maintain good posture and balance. Finally, the forearms transmit all the force created by the body into the club.

So, when it comes to golf, it isn’t always just about technique… fitness plays an important role too!

Lesley

For more information on any aspect of health or fitness contact me on 0773 627 4925, e-mail lesley@ fitsmartfitness.co.uk or visit my website at www.fitsmartfitness.co.uk

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 54-63 SCHOOLS-SPORTS_279 DECEMBER17.indd 63

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64

the advertizer HEALTHCARE/ BEAUTY

CHILDCARE

TRADES AND SERVICES Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 01505 614925 Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders.

P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school.

T: 01505 873839.

MUSIC TUITION

SITUATIONS VACANT

MISCELLANEOUS

BUSINESS

t: 01505 613340 64-67 CLASSIFIED_279 DECEMBER17.indd 64

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E

65

december 2017

PROPERTY HOLIDAY HOMES

PROPERTY TO LET

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.

churches

BRIDGE OF WEIR

Freeland Church: Rev KN Gray BA BD. Morning Service 10.30am.

Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and Cornerstone. Evening Service 7pm www.freeland.org.uk St Mar y’s Episcopal Church, Johnston Rd, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3EE. Our Services are held every Sunday at 10am. On the first Sunday each month at 6pm we welcome all who enjoy the beauty of quietness and peace at “Sanctuary” our Contemplative Service. All who seek God in mindful enquiry, in beauty, in quietness and service to others, all who are tired of life or full of it, all who are confident or all who are afraid - indeed whoever you are - you are welcome here! http://www. heartlandsec.org/BoW/index. html Contact: Revd. Heller G.P 01505 872961.

St. Machar’s Ranfurly Church: Welcome to our Sunday services at 10.30 am with Junior Church and All A ge ser vices. For more information about our congregation please see www. stmacharsranfurlychurch.org.uk or find us on Facebook. Contact: Rev Hanneke Marshall 01505 612975 Hanneke.Marshall@ churchofscotland.org.uk Hope Hall: Sun 1pm Sunday School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; Mon 6.30pm Investigators for Kids, 8pm Bible Study and Prayer.

ELDERSLIE

Elderslie Kirk: 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 Wed from 10.30am for Tea/Coffee followed by a short Service of Worship at 11am.

HOWWOOD

Howwood Parish Church. Minister Rev May Bell. Sunday Service and Sunday School. 10am each Sunday. Prayer meeting held at 3 Bowfield Way, Howwood, 7.30pm on Tuesdays.

HOUSTON

Unless other wise stated all Services will be led by Rev. Ian Bell. Sunday 3rd December - 11am Morning Worship.

Advent 1. Gift Service. Sunday 10th December - 11am Morning Worship.

Advent 2. Sunday 17th December- 11am Morning Worship. Advent 3. Nativity Play.

Sunday 17th December - 7pm Service of Lessons and Carols.

Sunday 24th December - 11am Morning Worship.

Advent 4.

Sunday 24th December - 23.30 pm Watchnight Service Sunday 25th December 11am. Family Christmas Service. Sunday 31st December - 11am Morning Worship.

St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Masses: Mon - Sat 9.30am. Rosary: Tue, Thurs & Sat 9.10am. Exposition: Mon, Wed & Fri 9.05am. Confessions: Sat 10 - 10.30am and after Vigil Mass. Baptism: By arrangement.

Parish Priest: Rev. Joseph Burke. Pastoral Assistant: Sr. Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). Address: ‘Abbotsfield’, St. Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T. 01505 612046. E. parish@stfillan.org. uk www.stfillan.org.uk 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.

Church of the Nazarene: Village Hall, Main St, Houston PA6 7EL. Rev. Benito S Coetzee.

Family services at 10.30am with full toddler, children & youth activities running concurrently with the service. Youth meets at 6.30pm - 8pm on Sundays.

Word and Table Quiet Service held from 9am - 9.30am every 3rd Sunday. www.houston. nazarene.org.uk

KILBARCHAN

Kilbarchan Parish Church in December: Services continue at 11am each Sunday throughout December, conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith. The annual Gift service is on 17th, when gifts will be distributed to the children of Easterhouse and to the Paisley Women’s Refuge. On the evening of 17th at 6.30pm,

the choir will lead the service of Nine Lessons and Carols, followed by refreshments in the hall. On 24th at 11am, there will be a Family Service including the children’s Nativity play and the Watchnight service on 24th will commence with carol singing from 11pm. On Christmas Day, 25th, there will be a short family service at 10.30am when you are asked to bring along one of your presents. There will be a service on Sunday 31st at 11am and on 7th January an informal communion will follow the 11am service. During the time of Advent, we shall once again be collecting for Mary’s Meals. We continue to support the Paisley Food Bank each Sunday . Sunday School and the Crèche will meet in the hall from 10.45am each week. ALL WELCOME TO ANY OF THESE SERVICES. For further information about the church and the organisations, please visit Kilbarchan Kirk online: www.kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk

KILMACOLM

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 and Crèche available.

Sòlas Bereavement Group, 2nd Thursday each month at 6.30pm in Kidston Hall. Kilmacolm Old and Kilmacolm St Columba are having United Services at 11am.

During the month of August, they will be held in St Columba Church.

St Columba Church of Scotland: (charity no. SC007992) Morning Worship Sundays at 11am. All welcome. Coffee/tea served in the hall after the service.

Grace Church Kilmacolm: in association with Downavale Free Church of Scotland (Charity No: SCO38274) - Sunday Service at 10.30am in Kilmacolm Guide Hut, Woodrow Avenue, PA13 4QF - all welcome.

St Colm’s Catholic Church, Smithy Brae Kilmacolm. Rev. Vincent Byrne. Family mass Sundays 10am with children’s liturgy, followed by tea and coffee.

Eucharistic service Thursdays 11 a m . Ro s a r y Tu e s d ay s 6.30pm. Prayer group meets Thursdays 7.30pm. Further information and contact details www.stcolmsparish.co.uk. All welcome.

Buddhist meetings: Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin. Phone Margaret on 01505 871343.

St Fillan’s Episcopal Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4DL. Services on Sunday at 11.30am.

Wednesday: 10.30am Holy Communion. On the last Sunday of the month at 11.30am we welcome families to come and join us for our monthly Family Service. We are united by our belief in Jesus, who sustains and encourages us in all the ups and downs of life. Everyone is welcome to join us ! http://www. heartlandsec.org/KLM/index. html Contacts: Revd. Heller G.P 01505 872961 / Maureen Russell (Pastoral Assistant) 01505 872905.

LANGBANK

Langbank Parish Church: Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Crèche and young people’s group, the Welcomers.

Tea/coffee after the service.

Church service starts at 10am.

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

LOCHWINNOCH

Parish Church: Mary Jane Bird.

Sunday 11am: Morning Worship and Sunday School.

All welcome.

Calder United Free Church: (Church Street, 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.

Spiritualist Church, Lochlip Rd. All services commence 7.30pm.

QUARRIERS

Mount Zion Church: Rev. Andy Lunn BSc, (01475 791282) Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village, PA11 3FD. Sunday Worship: 10.30am, Bible Study and Prayer Meetings: Wednesday at 7pm and Friday at 10 am. “Mozzy” Youth Club Thursdays at 6.30pm for young people of high school age. Half night of prayer: 7pm – midnight, 4th Friday of each month. Feel free to come along at any of these times.

‘The Gatherin’ is at 7pm on the fourth Sunday of each month, at Mount Zion Church in Quarriers Village. The Gatherin’ for people to come together who hunger for more of the presence of the Lord and to be fed from His word.

Please come and invite others: all welcome!

TRADES & SERVICES Black & White ads only Lineage: up to 20 words £13.00* Boxed ad: £7.50* per column cm PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES CARS FOR SALE Lineage: up to 20 words £13.00* Boxed ad: £7.50* per column cm Photo: add £7.50* (colour) *all prices subject to VAT

LOCAL INFORMATION 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: 7pm in February, March, April, May, June, September, October(AGM), November, and December on the 1st Tuesday of the month. (No meetings July and August) www.bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm in February, April, June, August, October and December on 2nd Thursday of the month.

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: Bowling Club: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

community halls to let Bridge of Weir, Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 Brookfield, Village Hall. Tel: 335562 Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 331488 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: 07584 359007 Kilmacolm, Masonic Hall. Tel: 873059 Linwood Masonic Hall. Tel: 07825 222944

Please add your community hall details to our list email to info@advertizer.co.uk

your local councillors RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

Ward 8 - Johnstone South & Elderslie: Jacqueline Cameron, John Hood, Alistair Mackay, Andy Steel Ward 9 - Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & Lochwinnoch: Derek Bibby, Bill Binks, Andy Doig, Emma Rodden Ward 10 - Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield & Linwood: Audrey Doig, Alison Jean Dowling, Scott Kerr, James Sheridan Ward 11 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank: Natalie Don, James MacLaren, Colin McCulloch Ward 12 - Erskine & Inchinnan: Tom Begg, Michelle Campbell, Jim Harte, Iain Nicolson INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (includes Kilmacolm & Quarriers): Christopher Curley, Stephen McCabe, David Wilson

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 64-67 CLASSIFIED_279 DECEMBER17.indd 65

16/11/2017 17:54:22

66 ITEMS FOR SALE BABY EQUIPMENT 2 Britax Romer Adventure Child Car Seats 15-36kg as new with instructions. £20 each. Tel: 07887 784162.

Silver Cross Surf carrycot and rain cover (no base). Excellent condition. Smoke free, pet free home. £30. Tel: 01505 672175.

Phillips AVENT combined baby food steamer and blender with instructions and recipe booklet.

Good condition. Smoke free, pet free home. £25. Tel: 01505 672175.

Phillips AVENT microwave bottle steriliser. Excellent condition, with instructions. Smoke free, pet free home. £5. Tel: 01505 672175.

Mothercare Highchair. V.G.C. Smoke free and pet free home. £25 donation to Beatson Cancer Centre, Gartnavel.

Tel: 01505 872717.

Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier Original.

Good Condition. Smoke and pet free home. £10. Tel: 01505 872800.

Fisher Price Rainforest Jumperoo. Good Condition.

Smoke and pet free home. £40. Tel: 01505 872800.

Design Peter Rabbit bespoke furniture. Toy box. Wardrobe.

Chest drawers bedside cabinet. Matching cushions x2 matching curtains. £350 Tel: 07445 299235.

CLOTHES & SHOES Men’s Dehavilland black coat.

Wool/cashmere mix, hardly worn and in excellent condition.

Chest 48ins. £50. Tel: 01505 672175.

A pair of Hi-Tech waterproof walking boots size 10, brand new. Tan colour. Bought £90 accept £30. In Kilbarchan. Tel: 01505 705264.

Marks and Spencer men’s charcoal suit. Chest 48ins, waist 38ins, inside leg 31ins.

Wool rich blend, excellent condition. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Mothercare Snowsuit, 9-12 months. Good Condition.

Smoke and pet free home. £8. Tel: 01505 872800.

Navy Snowsuit, 3-6 months.

Good Condition. Smoke and pet free home. £5. Tel: 01505 872800.

the advertizer

Lily and Jack Snowsuit, 3-6 months. Excellent Condition.

Smoke and pet free home. £8.

Tel: 01505 872800.

2 x Gro Bag Sleeping Bags 0-6 months, 2.5 togs. G.C. Smoke and pet free home. £8 each or both £14. Tel: 01505 872800.

Men’s brand new original Penguin casual trousers (label still attached) 38ins waist. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s M&S waxed casual coat in dark green. Size large. As new. £45. Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s full length Dannimac raincoat in grey. Removable lining. Size large. Good condition. £18. Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s 3/4 length sleeve WESC Beach t-shirt in khaki and white. Size XXL. As new. £10.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s brand new West Beach t-shirt. Size XL. £10. Tel: 01505 672175.

Brand new men’s Ralph Lauren navy v-neck jumper. Size XL. £40. Tel: 01505 672 175.

Motorbike All In One Hein Gericke All Star Waterproofs. Black & Silver. Medium. As New. £30 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Loveson Pink Jodphurs. Waist 24. Hardly worn. £5 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Hunter Wellies Inserts. Navy/ Union Jack Top. Medium. £5 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Brand new size 4 black ladies converse trainers with silver s t u d s . £ 1 0 . Te l : 0 7 8 1 8 424129.

Brand new ladies size 4 pink suede puma trainers. Never worn. £10. Tel: 07818 424129.

Brand new grey “Guess” purse in box with tags on. £10. Tel: 07818 424129.

Beautiful size 8 dress from Coast. Black & white stripe.

Party dress longer at back.

Worn once. £30. Tel: 07818 424129.

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN Yew Console Table. Good condition. £70. Tel: 07914 360267.

Stunning Dwell curved floor lamp with suede shade and marble base, as good as new, cost £250 sell for £75. Tel: 01505 872213.

Microwave Russell Hobbs red, Toaster Russell Hobbs red, Kettle Russell Hobbs red.

VGC. Three for £70. Tel: 01505 614053.

Retro style oak and veneer coffee table from the House by John Lewis range. Handy shelves and drawers for storage.

Approx H38cm x W110cm x D60cm. Excellent condition, smoke free home. £170. Tel: 01505 672175.

Electric (3000w) Powered Leaf Blower and Vac with collection bag. Good working order. £15. In Kilbarchan. Tel: 01505 705264.

Solid pine blanket box. Excellent condition. Tel: 01505 613664.

Child’s Metal Cabin Bed with desk and stool underneath. £80. Excellent condition. Tel: 01505 613664.

Prolex electric grill and oven as new, £25. Tel: 01505 614053.

Pair of tall cream fabric-covered cylindrical lamps (approx 115cm tall and 15cm in diameter). Ideal for bedside.

Good condition, smoke free home. £30. Tel: 01505 672175.

Pine Table + 2 High Back Chairs - All new and matching. Table: 75cm (B) x 74cm (W). £35.

Tel: 01505 612726.

Argos double clothing rail on wheels. Used once. £5. Tel: 01505 672175.

Portable filing cabinet (blue).

Good condition, comes with 10 files. £6. Tel: 01505 672175.

Denby 6 piece Dinner Set: 6 Meat Plates, 6 Soup/Puddings Plates, 1 Large Serving Platter.

Brown/Ice Blue. £40. Tel: 07907 297304.

2 Portmeirion Blue Breakfast Cups & Saucers. £10. Tel: 07907 297304.

Stressless Crown recliner and matching stool in walnut.

Perfect condition, only used for a couple of months. £500.

Tel: 01505 320600.

Large substantial blanket/toy box - pine. Painted white.

Nicely padded lid. £20. Tel: 07966 131206.

White rattan freestanding cupboard. Good condition. £25. Tel: 07966 131206.

ELECTRICAL & GAS Logitech QuickCam E3500 desktop computer camera with instructions. Excellent condition - £5. Tel: 01505 672175.

Starbucks Coffee Maker Espresso & Cappuccino only two years old, as new. Cost: £150 - accept £50. Tel: 01505 862609.

Panasonic Portable CD Player and Radio. Premium sound speakers. Two years old. Cost £150 - accept £50. Tel: 01505 862609.

VAX Air Bagless Upright Cleaner + Tools/user guide- good condition. £25. Tel: 01475 540519.

Bosch Aquatax 1200 powerwash.

Used once. £40 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

SPORTS Boy’s 7-8 year old ‘Redtail’ bike in excellent condition, will accept £30 ono. Tel: 01505 328044.

2 Golf Putters - Ping Scottsdale Putter - (L) 34” - £25. Odyssey Putter - (L) 34” - £25. Tel: 01505 842950.

Dinesse large Matt black ski/ snowboard helmet. Good condition £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

US kids golf club set - ideal for child age 7-9. Consists of lightweight golf bag, Driver, 3 wood, 6,7,8 irons, pitching wedge and putter. Excellent condition. Cost £150 sell for £50. Tel: 01505 872213.

Powabyke electric bike XLS10 step through frame. Fitted with larger battery and the original smaller one as a spare. 6 gears and “twist and go throttle”. Can be used without pedalling. Very good clean condition. £500.

Tel: 01505 872650.

25S 24 Apollo 21” boys bike with gears. Blue. Suits 10-14 years old. £35. Very good condition.

Tel: 01505 614900.

Apollo 21” girls bike with gears.

Pink. Suits 10-14 years. £35.

Very good condition. Tel: 01505 614900.

Adult Giro Bike Helmet, Pink 61-64cm. £5 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Streamline Roller Blades, Roadrunner pivot system with memory foam inserts. Red & Black. Size 36. £20 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Orange Mountain Bike. £100 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Apollo Firecracker, ladies lightweight alloy tech. 7 gears.

Excellent condition. £100 ono.

Tel: 01505 874103.

Raleigh StreetWolf, blue 5 - 9 yrs. 6 gears. £10 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

TOYS/GAMES/DVD X Box One excellent condition hardly used incl games.

Fantastic Christmas gift. £125.

Tel: 07831 152086.

Quality Berg Go-Kart. Strong & robust. X Farm Park model.

5ft (L) x 32” (W) x 3ft (H). £60.

Tel: 01505 321350 or 07757 219933.

Selection of Teddy Bears, 2 large, 1 BHS Bear, 1 white with red bow tie & 10 random small. £20 for all. Tel: 01505 874103.

t: 01505 613340 64-67 CLASSIFIED_279 DECEMBER17.indd 66

Walnut early 20thC kidney-shaped Dressing table or Desk. Excellent condition - treasured in family for 70 years. Pretty egg & dart moulding, beautiful legs with ball & claw feet. Measures 47” long, 30” high. Central drawer and three others each side. Smoke-free, pet-free home. Offers from £150.00 - collection or send carrier. Tel: 0141 638 9158 Minion, Yellow & Green Goggles. £5. Tel: 01505 874103.

Wii with all attachments. Mario Kart with steering wheel.

Family trainer with mat. Band Hero, including guitar, drums and mic. Boogie Superstar.

High School Musical 3, Beach Sports & My Horse 2. £125 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Yoohoo & friends. Pink Raccoon & Parrot. £5 each. Tel: 01505 874103.

OTHER ITEMS Revo Pico Wi-Fi internet radio. £30. Tel: 01505 614503.

New tyre, Hankook 235/55 r18 100h plus new alloy wheel r18 - would suit Kia, Nissan 4X4 both for £120. Tel: 01505 614053.

Galvanised steel ash bucket 10 litre. £4. Tel: 01505 672175.

Upright A1 Size Graphic Table with stand for sale, white.

Excellent Condition. £50. Tel: 07452 971316.

2014-16 Higher Past Papers: Maths, English, Modern Studies & Business Management - £5 each. 2006-10 Higher Past Papers: Maths, English - £3 each. Tel: 01505 615055.

Garage/Workshop Heater: ClarkeGRH35 with Propane bottle. £70. Tel: 07961 284886.

Trailer Light Board: 1.4m wide with 6m of cable £10. Tel: 07961 284886.

Toshiba Caileo P20 Camcorder.

Never used. Unwanted gift, still boxed. £40. Tel: 01505 842092.

Remington rotating volume & protect hair styler. Never used.

Unwanted gift, still boxed. £20.

Tel: 01505 842092.

Yamaha PSR620 Keyboard, stand, power supply and instructions for sale. Hardly used and in good condition.

Will sell for £100. Tel. 01505 352958.

Stentor full size violin. Very good condition. £50. Tel: 07815 606022.

Glockenspiel on stand with music holder. Excellent condition £60. Tel: 07815 606022.

Brand new steel car wheel 6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre 185/60 R15. Stored as spare wheel only. £80. Tel: 07736 067169.

Collectors Victorian Dolls House over 3 floors with balconies and electrics. £300 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Sleeping Bag, Mountain Wa r e h o u s e . A p e x 2 5 0 .

Patterned in carry bag. Hardly used. £5 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

Yamaha VPT 220 Keyboard with stand & Beginners Music Book. £50 ono. Tel: 01505 874103.

How to Pass Higher English Book. Brand new. £5. Tel: 07818 424129.

How to Pass - Higher Business Management book. Never used. £5. Tel: 07818 424129.

Higher Business Management Practice Papers Book. £5. Tel: 07818 424129.

Leckie Book - Religious, Moral & Philosophical Studies. Grade A booster book. Will help with Higher. £5. Tel: 07818 424129.

WANTED ITEMS

Westclox Big Ben alarm clock.

Call 07756 981917.

Paddington Teddy Bear. Tel: 07907 297304.

Require a cot or child bed for 3yrs old and child car seat. Tel: 01505 872121.

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, red and yellow only. Condition not so important. Call: 07729 350475.

Aluminium Greenhouse. 10’ x 6’ for uplifting. Tel: 0141 812 4799.

Cash paid for Music CDs (a few or a lot). Tel: 0141 882 5594 or 07765 115347.

Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710 777571.

Local lily grower requires the use of a greenhouse/polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

Would the gentleman who bought the easel from “In Kilbarchan” 01505 705264 please get in touch again as we have discovered another part of the easel buried in a cupboard and you are welcome to it.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk 16/11/2017 17:54:25

december 2017 ADVERTIZERS - A TO Z

BY CATEGORY

Home Improvements

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 2 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Electricians

Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 29 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 30

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

Home Interiors Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 Highland Style Living . . . . . . 15 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 2

Retail

Accountants & Financial

Education

Affluent Financial Planning . . 24 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 Martin Aitken & Co Ltd . . . . . 29 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57

Architectural Services Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Automotive Services AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31

Fencing

Home Security

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 4

Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 3

Firewood & Logs

Joiners A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 6 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 30 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Bathrooms

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37,38 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 28 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 2 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17

Funeral Services

Bedrooms

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 7 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 46

Garage Doors & Gates

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 4

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 2 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 30 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 26

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Cleaning & PowerWash

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 37 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 39 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 38,6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 37 Flowers by Margo . . . . . . . . . 12 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 12 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 36 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 41 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 38 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 41 West of Scotland Landscape . . 37

Gas & Heating Services C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 13 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 28 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier

CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . ,5 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 8 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Coffee Shops

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 50 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 51 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 9 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 61 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 8 FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 63 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 46 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 11 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Lifestyle Beauty Salon . . . . . 9 Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 15 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 9 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 51

Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 17 Cross Cafe Kilmacolm . . . . . . . 50

Computer, IT & Web Carness Consulting Ltd . . . . . 26 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 26

Council Notices The Media Shop Scotland Ltd . . 13

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

Driving Instructors AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 50 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 51 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 50

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Home Hardware

Kilt & Dress Hire Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 13

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 30

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 16 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 13 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Pest Control RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4

Pet Services & Training Bridge of Weir Dog Walking . . 32 Pawz and Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 33 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 32

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15

Plumbers C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 13 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 28 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Restaurant & Bars Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 17 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,34,35 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 43 The Sourcery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 2 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55

Solicitors Affinity Family Law Experts . . 26 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

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

Stoves Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 2

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Alpha Taxi Company . . . . . . . . . 19 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31 Private Hire Taxi . . . . . . . . . 31

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 14 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Travel Agents Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37,38 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 41

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 10 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,4 Highland Style Living . . . . . . 15 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 8

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 8 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

@ease Removals & Transport . . 2 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 37 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 16 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 39 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affinity Family Law Experts . . 26 Affluent Financial Planning . . 24 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14 Alpha Taxi Company . . . . . . . . . 19 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 29 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 50 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 51 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 17 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 9 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Bridge of Weir Dog Walking . . 32 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 3 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 2 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 13 Carness Consulting Ltd . . . . . 26 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . ,5 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 61 Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 27 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 13 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 38,6 Cross Cafe Kilmacolm . . . . . . . 50 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Delta Electrical Services . . 13 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 10 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 6 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 37 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,4 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 8 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 63 Flowers by Margo . . . . . . . . . 12 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,34,35 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37

Property, Sales & Let Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 27 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,34,35

67

Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 14 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 12 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 13 Highland Style Living . . . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 28 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 8 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 46 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 36 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 46 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 11 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 26 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Lifestyle Beauty Salon . . . . . 9 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 15 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37,38 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 41 Martin Aitken & Co Ltd . . . . . 29 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 4 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 28 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 50 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 9 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 2 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 30 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 8 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 Pawz and Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Private Hire Taxi . . . . . . . . . 31 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 38 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 33 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 51 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 32 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 30 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 43 The Media Shop Scotland Ltd . . 13 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The Sourcery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 41 West of Scotland Landscape . . 37 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Pick up a Copy January ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 8 December • Delivery: 27 December

February ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 19 January • Delivery: 31 January

Bishopton: Post Office, Woodrow’s Store, Keystore, Library, Ingliston Country Club Bridge of Weir: Gibb Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe, Lochnagar, The Bridge, Library (Cargill Hall) Erskine: Garden Centre, Library, Sports Centre, Swimming pool

Houston: Co-op, Carrick Centre, Post Office, Newsagent Howwood: Village Store, St Vincent’s Hospice Johnstone: Henderson Kilts, Papa Mac’s, Library Kilbarchan: Sheridan’s Store, Campbell’s, Newsagents, Bobbins, Old Library Centre

Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Pieri’s, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, Cargill Centre, Library Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre Lochwinnoch: Keystore, McKillop Centre, Library, Castle Semple Centre, Newsagent Quarriers: Three Sisters Bake

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December 2017

68

No.279

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