244 January 2015 - Gryffe Advertizer

January 2015

FRE 1 CO E PY

No.244 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

ADVERTIZER

Maid of The Loch, Loch Lomond, Balloch by Duncan McEwan from PCPC

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your LOCAL community magazine January 2015 No.244

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Winter Clean

If you have moss on your roof, algae on your walls, slippery paths or decking then we have the solution to all these problems and more. We can treat outside surfaces with a highly effective Biocide that will kill all growths and help to resist re-growth. Our solution also kills and prevents mould, fungus, mildew and bacteria.

Ideal for roofs where powerwashing isn’t appropriate.

This treatment can be teamed with gutter cleaning, roof repairs etc., Give us a call for more information on this service or for a at the same free quotation. time.

01505 863 863 www.nutechcleaning.co.uk

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This

Month

Welcome to our special January issue, packed with local news and events. Once again, we have included a handy 2015 desk calendar which you can cut out and keep through the year.

Find it on the inside back page.

We enjoyed another prolonged, sunny summer in 2014. Plenty of happy faces, and no worries about keeping the kids entertained during the summer holidays. The weather helped our local outdoor summer events enjoy bumper crowds. And rounding off the year, we enjoyed a number of excellent dramatic productions, including pantomime!

An exciting year ahead for The Advertizer as we will have been publishing your LOCAL magazine for 20 years! Yes, we can’t believe it either! Once again, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your continued support and look forward to working with you throughout 2015.

A special thanks to Suzanne and Linda in the office, the local Councillors and many other contributors who provide their news and updates and, of course, the local retailers, tradesmen and businesses for their ongoing support on which our community thrives.

Wishing you all the best for 2015!

Advertizer m a e T & a n o R

contents pick up a copy Bishopton: Post Office, Woodrow’s Store, Keystore, Library, Ingliston Country Club Bridge of Weir: Gibb Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe, Lochnagar, The Bridge, Library (Cargill Centre) Erskine: Library, Garden Centre, 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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advertiser directory................51 business classified.............48 property classified...............48 sales & wants......................50 travel blog..............................7 business news..................20-21 dental blog ...........................12 on the road.............................22 church listings.......................49

local history..........................21 local news..........................8-13 pets.................................40-41 outdoors..........................36-39 schools news.....................42-45 sports & clubs news.............46-47 sporting blog..........................47 village news.......................26-35 what’s on..........................14-18

contact us The Gryffe Advertizer

Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN t: 01505 613340 or e: info@advertizer.co.uk For more information please call us on 01505 613340 or check our website at www.advertizer.co.uk

Next Issue: Deadline:

no.245 February 2015 Fri 16th January 2015

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.

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Workshops, laughs & confidence-building

Set your artistic side free & create scripts for unique performance opportunities (performers & novices equally welcome) Workshops, laughs & confidence-building whilst working on performance & acting techniques... all in a supportive, encouraging environment.

Karen has years of experience in theatre performance, production & direction (all genres) and as a playwright. She co-runs Punch Productions theatre company and works as H-arts in the area of drama facilitation (corporate and social care training, workshop creation/facilitation, education workshops based on her plays, storytelling and community projects/productions).

Come along to the info/enrolment evening at Bernie’s Cafe/Deli, Main St, Bridge of Weir on Wednesday 14th January at 6.30pm/7pm.

Look H-arts up on facebook and at www.h-artsjunction.com

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Diaporama

It was our Christmas meeting with the usual festive sequences.

It was good to welcome our visitors to see the 10 excellent sequences which were all very different. One of our members appropriately summed the sequences up as “thought provoking to home spun.”

We went from the more traditional themes - Santa, Sparkling Christmas, Playing in the Snow - to thought provoking ones such as homelessness and international issues.

We also saw the “Famous Grouch” and a timely (but fun) one about predicting the weather! For the first time we had a quiz about musicals with ‘girls’ v ‘boys’ and The Girls Won!! We ended the evening with seasonal nibbles and drinks.

Our next meeting is with Adrian and Sue on Monday 12th January, 7.30pm at the Carrick Centre, Houston. Visitors always welcome.

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Travel Blog

by Maureen Horton of Travel a la Carte

From MARRAKECH to PARIS

There we were all set to try out the new Easyjet service to Marrakech from Glasgow, when I got an email from there 24 hours before our departure to say that the place was flooded and the expectation was that it would be pouring for the next few days at least! So after discussion with hubby, we decided to abandon the trip and change our date to early in the New Year. I mean, what is the point of looking at the weather forecast if you don’t act on it! The ability to have flexibilty is one of life’s little luxuries!

As we were all primed to go somewhere, Paris called. Like New York, the festive season is the best time of year to visit the City of Light. We arrived to cold crisp dry weather, wandered and wondered as we strolled up the shimmering and sparkling Champs Elysee, passed the Christmas Market stalls, Place de la Concorde, Place Vendome, Rue Royal and the Madeleine finally arriving at the magnificent Opera house and “Les Grands Magasins” of Printemps and Galleries Lafayette. I had read that Printemps windows, usually beautifully decked out with mechanised puppets, had been taken over by Burberry. Only expecting lots of their signature check design, we were so surprised at the magnificence of the puppetry designs that had been installed. A little obligatory retail therapy then followed!

As always wining and dining was superb and with the euro at a much better rate, good value.

Do you fancy a trip to Paris?

We can help you get there!

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Saint Vincent’s Hospice Light Up A life Another hospice to celebrate people’s lives was the St Vincent’s at Howwood.

This was a very special night, as stars were in the sky as the choir brought sound and the tree brought life into the night.

Tree and pies were served after the service, and everyone seemed to enjoy remembering loved ones that have went before them.

Do you want the skills to help save a life??

BHF January and February 2015 FREE

Lead by Lochwinnoch and Howwood Heart Start We have more dates available for the FREE two hour course in 2015.

Wednesday January 7th

Accord Hospice Light Up A Life

It was a magical night, with people following a piper from a distance away. The actual service was lovely, and it ended by a lovely hymn and the lights being switched on by young Calum Urie.

People then enjoyed a cup of soup and some crusty bread. All in all a magical night of remembering people with love.

2-4pm Bowfield Hotel Howwood

Wednesday January 14th

7-9pm Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

Wednesday January 28th

7-9pm Bowfield Hotel Howwood

Wednesday February 11th

2-4pm Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

If you are inserted in attending contact Morag on morag.Thow@gcu.ac.uk or 01505 843183.

The course is practical and deals with; • An unconscious casualty • Cardiac arrest • Suspected heart attack • Choking • Serious bleeding Dr Morag Thow

Jillian Craig’s fundraising for Cambodia

After an extremely successful Musical night in St Columba’s School, I have managed to raise over £2000 which is fantastic. Another massive thank you to everyone who helped, baked, took part in and came to the concert. Special thanks to all the local shops and businesses who donated raffle prizes.

With such a promising start to my fundraising, I have decided to organise a Race Night on Saturday 7th February. Venue Houston Bowling Club.

Start 7pm, Tickets £6.

A great fun evening is promised. Light snacks with sandwiches and sausage rolls will be provided and there will also be a raffle with some great prizes up for grabs. Don’t miss out on a great night and all money raised will be going towards my gap year in Cambodia with Project Trust. Email: jillian.craig97@yahoo.co.uk for details.

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Tom Weir Statue Campaign “Where there’s a Weir there’s a way”

LEAP - Bridge of Weir and Kilbarchan LEAP Eco Shop

LEAP are now selling a variety of reasonably priced draught proofing and energy saving materials from our drop in centres in Lochwinnoch and Bridge of Weir, including draught excluding strips, pipe lagging, chimney balloons, low energy LED bulbs and all sorts of things to make your home more comfortable and keep energy bills down. Take a look at our window display, get updates on our Facebook page (LEAP-Local Energy Action Plan) or drop in to find out more.

Car Club in Kilbarchan

Get your discounted £15 membership! If you haven’t yet considered how the car club might work for you why not drop in and discuss it with us. We still have capacity for more members in Kilbarchan. So far the feedback from our members in Kilbarchan has been great, no we just have to increase the membership and help more people save on their motoring costs.

Contact Mike on 01505 842530 or email Mike@myleapproject.org to find out more about how you could drastically reduce your costs of driving and still have a car when you need it.

Glasgow based design company ‘Eat Haggis’ have been working with the ‘Tom Weir Stature Campaign’ to raise money for the construction of a statue tribute to Tom Weir to erected at Loch Lomond. To help raise the funds Eat Haggis created a stylish contemporary t-shirt and a limited edition print celebrating everyone’s favourite bobble hatted hill walker. Through the T-shirt, ‘Eat Haggis’ have helped to bring attention and direct donations to the campaign and have raised an additional £525 so far with the sale of the T-shirts.

ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN The ‘Tom Weir Statue Campaign’s’ aim was to raise around £50,000 for the creation of a bespoke sculpture of the late Scottish climber and much loved TV presenter.

29th December 2014 would have been Tom’s centenary and the campaign will commemorate this date with the installation of the statue near to where Tom lived in the National Park. The statue has now been secured and the finishing touches are being applied but with the success of the campaign the team are now also able to do the next phase and have the area around the statue landscaped and they still need your help.

Tom was best known for his long-running STV show Weir’s Way, as well as his trademark woolly red hat and fair-isle jumper. Tom is probably most famous for his long running STV show Weir’s Way in which he wandered the hills, villages and glens of Scotland meeting its people, exploring its landscape and passing on interesting facts about its history in his soft gentile way. He was also an active campaigner for the protection of the Scottish environment and the first recipient of the John Muir Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Tom passed away in July, 2006 and is buried in the grounds of Kilmaronock Parish Church, near Drymen.

Car Club at Bridge of Weir Bridge of Weir car club has been growing in membership. The key benefits include that the members of the car club get: reduced motoring costs, only pay for the cars as you use it and access to our fleet of cars including an Electric Vehicle (Nisan LEAF).

Energy & Money Saving in Bridge of Weir

A Recent Home Energy Check has helped one local resident save 30% on their bill and remove a standing charge that they should no longer be billed for by their energy company who were charging a rental fee that no longer applied.

This is just one example of ways the energy advisors can help you out this January.

If you are clever with your finances, why not invest in the future while also reducing the amount of money wasted through taking simple efficiency measure with our qualified energy advisors. Whatever you are looking do to invest in your homes energy efficiency we are here to help.

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Phantasanja Thank you

We would like to thank all the people who have supported us over the last ten years working in Thailand. In 2004 there was a Tsunami which inspired us as a family to get up and make a difference. At that time we did not realize what a difference it would make to our lives and what a tremendous impact it would have on us all.

Over the last ten years we have managed to help so many children and families in Thailand and this was only possible thanks to your kind support. We have had many ups and downs, but are please to say we are still going.

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Kilmacolm Camera Club

In November, members took an evening excursion to Greenock for some nighttime photos. City lights, reflections in the sea, the Free French memorial and even a shot or two of The Plough (the constellation, not a pub!). A good chance to learn some new techniques.

In December, we held the first of our league competitions (the subject matter being “Open”, i.e., absolutely anything). Lorna MacDonald, from Alba Photographic Society, was the judge. Alighting the podium for the top places were (in the Digital Section)

Registered Charity: Phantasanja Scotland SCO 39919 Website: Phantasanja.webs.com Facebook Phantasanja Scotland

For those of you who don’t know, Phantasanja is a Scottish registered family charity, run by the Stewart family. We set out to rebuild a school for sea gypsies in 2005 on the island of Koh Prathong. Their island was devastated by the Tsunami. This had such an impact on us that it inspired us to continue and from there, with your help and support, it has evolved to what we have today.

To date we have built two orphanages, a restaurant and meditation huts, helped many families with housing or upgrading where they live, been involved in setting up a dormitory for 25 students to enable them to attend school, sponsored a few students to help with their schooling, refurbished classrooms to make education more enjoyable and helped support a day centre for Burmese refugee children. Julie is still spending most of the year in Thailand volunteering at the baby orphanage giving them love and cuddles. These are but a few of our achievements, for more information and to see some great pictures have a look at our website Phantasanja.webs.com.

Over the years we have met and worked with some fabulous people who have inspired us and kept us going. I am also sure we have inspired some other people in turn.

As I said earlier all this is only possible through your continuous support be it by making donation, attending one of our functions or buying Thai crafts from our stalls.

Julie, Andy, Paul and Mark Stewart

1st Janice Stevenson, with “Do You Love Me?” 2nd Janice again, with “Beach Huts” and 3rd David Addison, with “Butterfly”. In the Print Category were 1st Bill Ham, with “Not too Chuffed with the Weather”, 2nd equal David Addison, with “Impala”, alongside Bill Ham, with “Loch Rusky in Autumn”.

We also enjoyed viewing the John Duffy Portfolio. This the best of a selection of prints submitted by camera clubs in the Glasgow area. It was good to see some high quality landscapes, portraits and natural history shots again this year.

Come along some time and see what you can do with a basic camera. We’re right on your doorstep – no need to struggle through miles of wind, hail and snow. Beginners and experts all welcome. Find out more about us on our new website, at clikpic.com/kilcamclub/ Venue: Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01; Tuesday evening, time 7.30pm. Contacts: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595.

Saint Vincent’s Hospice Christmas Fayre in Johnstone

Johnstone came alive with the sound of Christmas on Saturday 29th of November. Families were treated to a fun day out, with Santa, his helper and lots of clowns and jokers around the square.

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Cunninghame Choir

On Sat 30th Nov, Cunninghame Choir performed its second concert commemorating 100 years since the start of World War 1. Celebrating the extraordinary Christmas Truce of 1914, the choir performed a variety of songs and carols from Britain, France and Germany to a full and receptive audience at Beith Community Centre.

Entitled In Memoriam, the choir’s annual May concert is based on music written in memory of others; works span five centuries and include Beethoven’s Elegischer Gesang and Whitacre’s Sleep.

The highlight will be the world premiere of a brand new work, Requiem, composed by Maciej Granat, an exceptional pianist who has worked with the choir for a number of years as its rehearsal and concert accompanist. Maciej is an established performer, teacher and composer who graduated recently, with Distinction, from a Masters in Performance at RSAMD. Requiem has been written for Cunninghame Choir in memory of Maciej’s aunt and childhood piano teacher, Bozena Lanowska, who was highly influential in his general and musical upbringing. Since her passing, Maciej was motivated to compose a piece in her memory, yet felt disheartened knowing that it might never be performed.

Inspiration struck following the Choir’s rousing performance last year of Karl Jenkins’ Armed Man; Mass for Peace: he would write Requiem for Cunninghame Choir, craft the piece to its strengths, to mutual benefit. Set to original Latin mass texts plus poems by Polish romantic poet, Cyprian Kamil Norwid, the music style spans from modernistic chaos, through evocative emotional expressionism. A concert, most definitely, not to be missed!

In Memoriam will be performed at 3pm on Sunday 10th May at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Mitchell Street, Beith, North Ayshire.

If you would like to join the choir please get in touch via www.cunninghame-choir.org.uk

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Robert Burns

Robert Burns was born on 25th January 1759 in the village of Alloway, two miles south of Ayr. His parents, Willian Burnes[s] and Agnes Broun, were tenant farmers but they ensured their son received a relatively good education and he began to read avidly. The works of Alexander Pope, Henry Mackenzie and Laurence Sterne fired Burns’s poetic impulse and relationships with the opposite sex provided his inspiration.

Handsome Nell, for Nellie Kilpatrick, was his first song.

Hard physical labour on the family farm took its toll on the young Burns, who increasingly turned his attentions towards the passions of poetry, nature, drink and women which would characterise the rest of his life. He fathered twins with eventual wife Jean Armour, but a rift in their relationship nearly led to Burns emigrating to the West Indies with lover Mary Campbell (his Highland Mary). Mary’s sudden death and the sensational success of his first published collection of verse kept him in Scotland. At just 27, Burns had already become famous across the country with poems such as ‘To a Louse, To a Mouse’ and ‘The Cotter’s Saturday Night’.

In just 18 short months, Burns had spent most of the wealth from his published poetry, so in 1789 he began work as an Excise Officer in Dumfries (an irony not lost on him) and resumed his relationship with wife Jean. His increasingly radical political views influenced many of the phenomenal number of poems, songs and letters he continued to pen, including such famous works as ‘For a’ that and a’ that’.

The hard work this new job entailed, combined with the toil of his earlier life and dissolute lifestyle began to take their toll on Burns’s health. He died on 21st July 1796 aged just 37 and was buried with full civil and military honours on the very day his son Maxwell was born. A memorial edition of his poems was published to raise money for his wife and children.

Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Games Society (RIGS)

We are a friendly group of board and card game enthusiasts who meet every fortnight on Wednesday evenings at the upstairs café bar at Amaretto in Bridge of Weir. The games we play offer a wide variety of themes and styles and can cover anything from developing your ancient civilisations, managing and racing your own NASCAR team or terra forming lands to allow your population to grow. Above all these are games where you are in control of your moves and your decisions are central to your game.

Please feel free to come along and discover this exciting social and interactive hobby.

Our meetings in January are on the 14th and 28th at 8pm in the upstairs café bar at Amaretto in Bridge of Weir and if you have any questions or would like more information please call Keith on 07789 501605. If you intend to come along then please also let us know, using the same phone number, so that we can ensure that there is a good supply of games.

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Blood Donor Sessions

Paisley Abbey Sunday 18th January - 4pm

A Ceremony of Carols - Benjamin Britten in a programme of other pieces. Paisley Abbey Choristers; Rhona McKay – harp; Tim Lambourn – organ. Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. SC007633

Gryffe Camera Club

Club members have been working particularly hard over the past few weeks to produce and edit some fantastic images to submit in round 3 of our internal League competition, and also in the GDPU digital image battle where our members joined forces and competed as a club against Queens Park Camera Club. For the GDPU battle each club had to submit 20 photographs, which were then put together as a set of 40 and given to Dr Robert Brown to judge. The images were titled but the judge was not told which club they were from. Dr Robert then began the unenviable task of awarding each image a score out of 20 judged on both technical and artistic qualities, and he did a fantastic job, giving very thorough critique and offering advice on how some of the images could be improved. He informed us that the standard of images had been so high there had been a requirement to give scores down to a quarter of a point! The results night was held at Gryffe where we were joined by our friends from Queens Park to receive the critique and scores for our images. Well done to Queens Park who had the top scoring image of the night, but we are delighted to announce that Gryffe had the highest total score for our 20 images, with Al Goold receiving the top score for our club! Round 3 of our internal League competition was held the following week, and once again our members submitted a very high standard of photographs. The results and top 3 images from the beginners and advanced digital sections can be viewed on our website http://www.gryffecameraclub. co.uk. The same images have now been sent away for an independent judge to score, and Roy Smith will deliver his verdict to us on 7th January.

We are eagerly awaiting the results of two other external competitions, namely the John Duffy Print Portfolio and the George Simpson Memorial Trophy, the results night for the latter will be held at Kilmacolm on 13th Jan. Jim Black will present “DIY Brain Surgery” on 14th and then our very own Roger Calvert and Tony McNamara host members night on 21st. Fiona McEwan will deliver her presentation entitled “Perceptions of Svalbard” on 28th to finish an exciting month!

St Mirin’s Cathedral Parish Hall, Incle Street, Paisley PA1 1HR Tuesday 6th January - 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm The Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge Of Weir PA11 3LJ Monday 12th January - 4pm- 7.30pm Johnstone Recreation Hall, (Previously known as McMaster Sports Centre, Greenhead Avenue, Johnstone PA5 0LD Friday 16th January - 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm Donating Bus, Morrison’s Store, 30 Napier St, Johnstone Friday 23rd January - 9:30am - 11:30am & 1pm - 3.30pm Erskine Sports Centre, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine PA8 7AF Tuesday 27th January - 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm Linwood Sports Centre, Brediland Road, Linwood PA3 3RA Wednesday 28th January - 4pm - 7.30pm You can drop in to give blood at 8 Nelson Mandela Place, Glasgow G2 1BT. Make an appointment by calling 0845 90 90 999.

High Tea/Dinner/Dance Every Saturday night - 8pm - 11pm

Dancing to live music playing memorable tunes at the Willowbank Hotel, 96 Greenock Road, Largs. Booking essential - Call 01475 675435.

Dental Blog

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

Caring for Your Smile during Pregnancy

As a family-friendly Dental Practice (we have even got our own playroom!) we are often asked by expectant mothers for oral health advice and tips during pregnancy.

It is important for mothers-to-be to be aware of some of the considerations and facts so they don’t become a worry.

Maintaining a good oral health regime is particularly important so brush and floss twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, avoid too many sugary drinks and snacks (especially between meals) and try plain water and raw vegetables as healthy alternatives.

Some women get sore, swollen or bleeding gums during pregnancy due to those pesky pregnancy hormones. There is nothing to worry about and it is unlikely to continue once the baby is born. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to help and you may find that you need to make more visits than normal during pregnancy and for a while afterwards – remember dental care is free on the NHS during pregnancy and for one year after your due date.

Morning sickness can also be a problem as it produces acids that are harmful to your teeth, softening the enamel. If you do suffer from morning sickness rinse your mouth out with water immediately after and wait about an hour before brushing your teeth.

As a general rule dentists will avoid X-rays during pregnancy but there may be occasions when they are necessary. Again, don’t worry, dental X-rays don’t affect the abdominal or pelvic areas. Similarly, whilst there is no proof of any harmful effects, the removal of amalgam fillings is generally delayed until after pregnancy.

The important thing is to make your dentist aware that you are pregnant and discuss any treatments with them.

Winning images are Luskentyre by Roger Calvert, Bubbly by John McConnelogue, Hold the Moon by Helen Teese and Tiger Cub by Al Goold.

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If you have any queries regarding oral health don’t hesitate to visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call us on 01505 704969 or click www. kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips and advice including articles on healthy eating and oral health regimes.

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Walking in The Glen by Duncan McEwan from PCPC

January events

Fri 9 - Fri 16 January St Columba’s Entrance Tests

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm

9th & 12th January - Junior School Assessments 10th January - Senior School Assessments Transitus (J7) & any available places in Senior I-Senior VI 13th & 14th January - J1 Interviews 15th &16th January – Preparatory Assessments Please see the School website for full details. Www. st-columbas.org Or call 01505 872238 for Junior School & 01505 872768 for Senior School. For further information please contact: Kirstin Zhang, Press & Publications Officer. Tel: 01505 874772 E: kzhang@st-columbas.org

Thu 15 January Open Night Fund Raiser A Fiddler`s Rally

Gleddoch House Hotel, Old Greenock Road, Langbank 7.30pm

Featuring the Bearsden Fiddlers. Tickets £5 available from Marion Dornan 01475 540 511.

Proceeds for Langbank Church Fabric Fund.

Fri 16 January Weir Networking Event

Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir 9.30am

Main Guest Speaker - Senga Cree, also Curtis Chisholm of Cochran Dickie Estate Agent, and Colin MacDonald of Elite Alloys. Come along and meet like-minded business people.

Advertizer Deadline

The Advertizer - Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

Sat 10 January Christian Aid committee in Kilmacolm - January Sale Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Generous donations which will be on sale include a keyboard organ, two guitars, posh clothing including skiing gear, dvds, cds, and books. All proceeds will be sent directly to Christian Aid Scotland, the total will be matched by the UK government under a scheme open until 5th February, so we can double your money. If you have any items you would like to be included in the January Sale, please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393. Please come along and support the Sale, and enjoy refreshments at the Hub. All proceeds are being directed to Christian Aid’s work in areas suffering Ebola.

Family Volunteering

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 4pm

Fancy a bigger back garden? RSPB Lochwinnoch is YOUR reserve and YOUR back garden! Come along for some quality family time, whilst getting the chance to get nice and muddy as well as doing something great for nature! This is a pilot programme and will initially only run 6 months (Sep14 to Feb15). Contact us for more information.

Please book in advance as spaces are limited.

Cost: FREE.

Wed 14 January Evening Talk: Wildlife in the Loire

by Dave Mellor RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm

Dave Mellor is a former keeper of natural history at Paisley Museum. His regular visits over several years have allowed him to build up an interesting view of central France’s wildlife. Birds, butterflies, animals and plants as well as landscape, fossils and rocks all make this a wildlife heaven. Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers

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Deadline for our February 2015 issue - please make sure we get your news and advert bookings by this date!

Sat 17 January Attracting Birds to your Garden – Demonstration RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch All Day

There will be a variety of bird feeds and feeders on display in the viewing area all day, with knowledgeable staff on hand to answer your burning questions, or simply tell you about some of the different options. Cost: FREE

Sun 18 January Beith Arts Sunday Concerts

Beith Community Centre, Kings Road, Beith 2.30pm

The first concert of 2015 will be a return visit from our old friends “Coro Alba”. All are welcome, prices are £11/£9 for adults, £3 for students and children (pay at the door). At the interval refreshments will be available. It will be a great concert - don’t miss it!

A Ceremony of Carols

Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 4pm Benjamin Britten in a programme of other pieces.

Paisley Abbey Choristers; Rhona McKay – harp; Tim Lambourn – organ. Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. SC007633

Wed 21 January Kilmacolm Horticultural Society

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Our most popular speaker, Louise Bustard, senior curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, joins us to give a presentation of “the Gardens of the French Riviera and Italy’s Lakeland Gardens.” A perfect lecture for an evening in the bleak mid-winter! All are welcome, refreshments at end of lecture, please join us..

Details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393.

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Fri 23 January

Sat 31 January

Celebrate Burns Night

Coffee Morning

Glynhill Hotel, 169 Paisley Road, Renfrew 6.30pm to 8.30pm Scottish Huntington’s Association, is organising a Red-Hot Firewalk challenge to raise vital funds for people affected by Huntington’s disease, their families and carers. So if you have a burning desire to take part, please call me on 0141 848 0308 or email linda.byars@hdscotland.org to register and receive a fundraising pack. All we ask is that you pay part of £30 and commit to raising a minimum sponsorship of £100.

Sat 24 January Wildlife Explorer Group

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon Come and join this fun children’s nature activity group! Every session has a different theme to do with wildlife and the natural world, but all sessions are informative, great fun and involve a good chunk of time outside. Ages: up to 14yrs (under fives must be accompanied by a parent/guardian). Cost: £2 Booking is not necessary. For more info, please visit the Lochwinnoch Wex website: www.rspb.org. uk/groups/lochwinnochwex

Weekend Talk: Garden Birds over the last 35 years by Diane Lyons RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 3pm to 4pm

Diane Lyons is a local field teacher and ecological surveyor, with a keen interest in the Natural World. Her talk will take you into the world of the birds sharing our gardens. She will speak about garden birds and their ups and downs and how the RSPB’s Big Garden Bird Watch has helped our understanding over the last three decades.

Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers

Wed 28 January

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Kilbarchan East Church, Church Street, Kilbarchan 10am to 1pm

Friends of St Vincent’s Hospice are holding a coffee morning at Kilbarchan East Church Hall. Please come along with family and friends and support your local hospice.

Birds for Beginners

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 1.30pm Join the team at RSPB Lochwinnoch for a workshop session ideal for beginners to birdwatching, to help you learn more about common garden birds and pick up tips and advice on wildlife watching techniques. Then head out into the reserve to put these new skills into practise. Afterwards enjoy a hot drink back at the centre. Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife

Sat 31 Jan-Sun 1 February Binocular & Telescope Demonstration

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch All Day

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 100% of the profit goes directly to helping conservation. Cost: FREE

Sat 7 February Jillian Craig’s fundraising for Cambodia - Race Night Houston Bowling Club 7pm

Monte Carlo Rally Returns

Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 7pm

Paisley will again host the only UK start leg of the event – one of the most famous and glamorous in motorsport. Around 70 cars – including classic Porsches, Mini Coopers and even Linwood-built Hillman Imps, will set off at 7pm.

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A great fun evening is promised. Light snacks with sandwiches and sausage rolls are provided. There will be a raffle with some great prizes up for grabs.

Don’t miss out on a great night and all money raised will be going towards Jillian’s gap year in Cambodia with Project Trust. Cost: £6. Email for further information to jillian.craig97@yahoo.co.uk Thank you for your support.

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Celebrate Burns Night

Fri 23th January - Glynnhill Hotel, Renfrew - 6.30pm – 8.30pm Scottish Huntington’s Association, is organising a Red-Hot Firewalk challenge to raise vital funds for people affected by Huntington’s disease, their families and carers. This exciting fundraising event will be held at the Glynhill, Renfrew (www.glynhill.com).

A firewalk is inspirational and empowering. It is as the name suggests: a barefoot walk over 10 feet of red-hot wood embers measuring around 1236 degrees Fahrenheit. No tricks, no special effects.

Just you and the fire…

By taking part, not only will you be ‘celebrating Burns in style’ but all money raised will benefit families affected by Huntington’s disease across Scotland.

We need to raise vital funds in order to ensure we can continue to support people living with Huntington’s disease, their families and carers.

So if you have a burning desire to take part, please call me on 0141 848 0308 or email linda.byars@hdscotland.org to register and receive a fundraising pack. All we ask is that you pay part of £30 and commit to raising a minimum sponsorship of £100.

Event Format: 6.30pm - Arrival / Registration - Glynhill, Renfrew; 7pm - Training Session - Function Suite; 7.30pm - Firewalk - Private Car park; 8.30pm - Back to function suite, for certificates, celebrations, raffle, tea and coffee This is an ideal opportunity to socialise with other families affected by HD, so, why not make a night of it at the Glynhill Hotel.

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

Weir Networking Group

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THEATRE

events

Beacon Arts Centre Entertainment for January Cinderella He’s back and looking for love…she’s looking to go to the ball.

Pantomime fun for all the family starring River City’s Paul James Corrigan, Still Game’s Jane McCarry, Samantha Shields and a host of Scotland’s top talent.

12th Dec - 3rd Jan 2015 - £8 to £18

The Diary of Anne Frank Based on the famous book, this adaptation by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett details the two years that the Frank’s and the Van Daan’s spent hiding in Amsterdam. A harrowing tale of survival, love and human endeavour that is sure to be both poignant and mesmerising.

16th Jan - 17th Jan 2015 - £8 to £12

Ctrl + Alt Del The Senior classes at Beacon Youth Theatre present two short original plays devised in class, exploring the way our lives and emotions are manipulated by society and social media.

23rd Jan - 24th Jan 2015 - £3

The Polar Bears go Wild!

If you’re aged 5 or under,

Our Main Guest Speaker this month is the Fabulous Senga Cree, who will Inspire and Motivate you for 2015.

Then here’s the show for you,

Curtis Chisholm of Cochran Dickie Estate Agency is dropping by, as is Colin MacDonald of Elite Alloys - an important service for this time of year if you are a driver.

Or paddle your canoe…

Come along and meet like-minded business people on Friday 16th January 2015 at 9.30am at Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir PA11 3AB.

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Get here on your skis/snowshoes/tractor With music, laughter and quite a lot of cheekiness, The Polar Bears Go Wild is the perfect treat for young audiences. Remember to keep hold of your ice cream - Polar Bears are always hungry!

31st Jan 2015 - £5 ...............................................................................................

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

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REGULAR

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society No sooner does one production finish than another begins!

As we go to press we are making arrangements for our Spring play & hope to be in full swing shortly after the New Year.

Further announcements will be made regarding the chosen piece & auditions nearer the time.

‘Jack & the Beanstalk’ was another resounding success with near capacity audiences for every show & the unveiling of hitherto hidden talent in the form of not just actors, but singers & dancers too, not to mention considerable constructional expertise behind the scenes. To everyone who gave so freely of their time & effort, a huge ‘Thank You!’

events

every Monday Lochwinnoch Community Walk The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

This event will not take place on a public holiday

every Wednesday Knitting Group Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Line Dancing Bishopton Primary School 7pm - 8.30pm

All abilities welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212.

every Thursday Weekly Volunteer Group Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Conservation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

every Saturday Weekly Volunteer Group Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

every Sunday Weekly Volunteer Group Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 10am - 12noon

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

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.

2nd Wednesday monthly Inverclyde Carers Outreach Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am-2pm

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

‘Thank You’ too to every one of you who attended & helped to make the whole thing go with a swing, for hissing & booing & singing along, & answering the baddy back, for scrambling for ‘gold’ & alerting the goodies to what was going on behind them. We hope to see you all back again next year, if not sooner. Why not give the Spring play a try?

Beith Arts Sunday Concerts 50th Anniversary Year

Our last concert in 2014 was a group of six first-class musicians, who call themselves “Mr McFalls Chamber”. They played us a programme largely of Polish tangos, and we were told the background of this trend, which was very interesting. The tangos played were slower and sadder than the S.American variety we know and have a pathos about them which is an intrinsic part of their character. They, and the other items on the programme, were played with great skill by the group. We loved all of it, but it was the tangos and their history which stayed with us. An excellent and informative concert.

The first concert of 2015 will be a return visit from our old friends “Coro Alba”.

They will be singing solos, duets and choruses from popular operas and musicals, and we know from experience that we will go home humming our favourite song. This group is a favourite with our audience, and they will be just the thing on a dreary winter afternoon to lift the spirit!

This concert, the fourth in our 50th Anniversary Year Season, will be held on Sunday, the 18th January 2015 at 2,30 pm in Beith Community Centre, King’s Road, Beith, KA15 2BQ. All are welcome, prices are £11/£9 for adults, £3 for students and children (pay at the door). At the interval refreshments will be available. New audience members are very welcome, you will find out audience very friendly and chatty, and the committee members will look after you. It will be a great concert - don’t miss it!

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3rd Friday monthly Hearing Aid Clinic The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1-2pm

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

2nd Saturday monthly

FARMERS

markets

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

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

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

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

1st & 3rd Sunday Loch Lomond Shores

10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd Thur & last Sat Paisley Cross

10am-2pm Tel: 01655 770217

3rd Saturday Erskine Garden Centre

10am - 2pm Tel: 0141 814 4626

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

1st Sunday monthly Bridge of Weir Messy Church Bridge of Weir 4pm - 6pm

Please just turn up but if you have any questions, contact Catherine Daly on 07980 649377. We look forward to feeding everyone that turns up!!

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Helping Mary’s Meals Gryffe Valley Rotary Club members were concerned about how best to provide help for the appalling Ebola crisis in Africa. Researches found that the well-known local charity Mary’s Meals, which provides school meals for almost 1 million impoverished children, had reacted in Liberia where a state of emergency and quarantine zones meant all schools were closed.

Mary’s Meals were now providing some 80,000 children with emergency food at home, as well as to suspected Ebola sufferers. An urgent cause, and Gryffe Valley was pleased to be able to respond quickly with an £1100 donation to Mary’s Meals.

Very best wishes to everyone for 2015!

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LOCAL

history

Kilbarchan General Society Kilbarchan General Society, one of the oldest charitable organisations in Scotland, was founded in 1765 by 24 heritors, merchants and tradesmen. The wealthier members could choose to pay a lump sum on joining the society and others could pay an annual fee of one shilling. The money raised was ‘for maintaining such of their own number, their widows and children, as shall by misfortune be rendered incapable of maintaining themselves’ Charitable payments to the needy recorded in the first Minute Book included fifteen shillings per year for five years to a deserted wife with three children, a cart of coal to a member who had fallen on misfortune and fifteen shillings for the burial of a deceased member. In 1800, thirty pounds sterling of meal was purchased to be distributed within the village in a time of scarcity. In 1866 the society gave one ton of coal to a destitute member and paid the apprenticeship fee of one pound to a local dress maker on behalf of the daughter of a deceased member. In 1887 forty shillings was granted to the son of a late member for the purchase of a cart. Charitable payments to the needy continued to be made regularly well into the twentieth century.

To augment society funds in the early days the members ran a meal market at the Steeple from 1766 to 1772. By 1794 the society had a capital of around £400. In the next century it amassed a considerable income from investments in companies including Kilbarchan Gas Company in 1844 and Clyde Navigational Trust in 1877.

The society also supported local hospitals and sponsored village improvements and local events. It was instrumental in providing the village with its Public Park, opened in 1888, and has had a long involvement in Kilbarchan’s Lilias Day celebrations.

In 1932, when the original wooden statue of Habbie Simson on the Steeple was being repainted, it was found that it had deteriorated beyond repair.

The estimated cost of replacing it with a bronze statue was between £400 and £600, but the society had raised only £114 for the purpose.

However, Joseph Gorman, a brass founder from Glasgow saved the day. He became a member of the society and offered to create a bronze facsimile of the old wooden statue for only £100.

In 1935, at the bottom of Church Street near the spot where the Kilbarchan weaver-poet Robert Allan’s house once stood, a commemorative well was erected to his memory by Kilbarchan General Society. He is the only Kilbarchan weaver to have a monument in the village.

The first mention of Lilias Day in General Society Minute Books occurs in 1851 when the General Society was asked to join other village societies in a procession round the village. The society’s involvement in Lilias Day Celebrations continues to the present day when the Preses (chairman) of the society has a place of honour in the Lilias Day Parade. The society was especially active in Lilias Day celebrations in the 1930s. £1250 was raised from the 1930s Lilias Days, and was donated to the Royal Alexandra Infirmary in Paisley to install a bed in Ward 8 in 1935. The managers of the General Society were invited to inspect the commemorative tablet which had been placed over this bed.

Johnstone History Society The Society meets on the second Tuesday of every month in the Masonic Hall Collier Street Johnstone at 7.30pm. Our next meeting is on Tuesday 13th January when the speaker will be one of our own members Iain Murray talking about the history of Johnstone this will be an enjoyable evening New members and visitors will be made welcome The Johnstone History Museum, which is situated in Morrison’s at the Collier Street end, opens on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm and is manned by volunteers from the History Society. At the moment we have a very interesting display about World War 1 compiled by two of our members Bill Speirs and Stewart Michie and well worth a visit.

In 1925 Kilbarchan General Society obtained absolute ownership of a room in the Steeple buildings known as the Ladies Room. The room houses a display of old photographs, an old painting of Habbie Simson and the head of the original wooden statue of Habbie which had been cleaned and renovated.

The society’s greatest service to the preservation of the old village was its efforts to force the County Council to carry out essential repairs to the steeple building. There was even talk of it being demolished! It was saved from demolition through the efforts of the General Society, when it was scheduled as an ancient monument in 1949. In 1954 the General Society agreed to contribute funds to the County Council towards the cost of repairs to the steeple and the Ladies Room.

Today the General Society has a membership of almost 400 and continues to give valued support to local organisations and good causes. The society’s annual Burns Supper will be held on the village on the 17th of January, 2015.

© 2014 Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Society

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Vehicle Parking in Kilmacolm Your Views Please

The Kilmacolm Community Council would like to hear first hand your views on the vehicle parking situation in the village and invite residents, shopkeepers and traders to participate in a discussion at their 25th February 2015 meeting - 7.30pm in the Kilmacolm Community Centre.

The recently resumed enforcement of the parking and loading restrictions has brought the subject into focus. Most of these regulations have been in existence for a long number of years.

An official from Inverclyde Roads and Network Management has been invited to the meeting to share the Council’s developing thinking and to hear your views.

The discussion will provide valuable input to the formal review the Inverclyde Council are undertaking on the parking arrangement currently in force in Kilmacolm. If you wish to make your view known before the meeting please email info@kilmacolmcc.co.uk

Learner Drivers Warned About Extra Charges The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is warning learner drivers to avoid copycat websites and save money by using GOV.UK. If you type the names of some popular government services into search engines, some of your search results might be ads for sites that offer a service you could get for free (or for much less) on GOV.UK, the government’s own website.

Driving test bookings Some of these copycat websites offer to book theory and practical driving tests, and look like they might be official, but they actually charge a premium for their services.

Some websites charge: • up to £30 for just booking a test, on top of the driving test fee itself • a ‘pass protection’ fee with the promise of a free retest that very few customers actually qualify to use Copycat websites don’t let you pick an actual appointment, and don’t give you instant confirmation of your booking.

Find out how to save money by using GOV.UK and what the government is doing about copycat websites at www.gov.uk/government/news/learnerdrivers-warned-about-extra-charges

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‘Gulls on a Boat’ by Clare McCormick from Gryffe Camera Club

bishopton, langbank ..................................................... & bridge of weir Bridge of Weir and Houston Fairtrade Villages One World Celebration 2014

On the 8th of November, Bridge of Weir and Houston Fairtrade Villages group held their annual One World Celebration in the British Legion hall.

That was a year? That was!

How time flies! It hardly seems like twelve weeks have passed since we were setting out our plans for 2014. But here we are, 12 months on and planning for 2015.

We began last month by installing our own Christmas lights to supplement the Community Council’s annual display. We’ve done this every year since we began, and our display’s been getting a little bigger and better each time. Thanks to businesses and residents along Main Street and down Livery Walk, we were able to install illuminated wreaths and snowflakes from the dentists’ at Mill Brae to the garden at Gryffe Grove. So, to any passersby who may have wondered what those folk from Brighter Bridge of Weir were doing clambering up ladders and teetering on balconies and window sills: now you know!

We think - and hope you do too - that these, together with the Community Council’s newly enhanced display, made the village look suitably bright and colourful over the festive period. Thanks again to those who gave us access to their homes and premises, and their power supplies, too.

This was the third time the event has been held and the most successful so far. Stall holders, including Rainbow turtle, Olive Tree and Brighter Bridge of Weir were kept busy while visitors browsed and bought crafts and baking.

Shoppers were entertained by the multi talented Houston Folk Club, providing background music while they enjoyed coffee and baking and later Armenian soup for lunch.

The three local Primary Schools added hugely to the success of the day with competition entries in the form of paintings and photographs decorating nearly every wall in the Legion hall.

Houston Primary pupils Brodie Gillanders, Emily Fallon and Abigail McLelland won first, second and third prizes.

Due to the high standard of entries three special prizes were created - Creative use of Imagination won by Conor Slater of St Fillan’s, and Best Artistic Effort won by Abbie Newlands also of St Fillan’s.

Two prizes for photography were won by Emma Ritchie and Ethan Scott, both Houston pupils.

The high spot of the day was the beautiful singing of the St Fillan’s and Bridge of Weir Primary choirs, entertaining a crowded hall.

Many thanks to all who helped or visited the event. We are already looking forward to One World 2015!

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Brighter Bridge of Weir

As for our normal work, well, we’ve got a few more planters to fill this coming year than last and so already we’re thinking ahead to what summer might look like; as if last year didn’t pass quickly enough! If you have any ideas about what you’d like to see in the planters and barrier baskets, or any other comments to make about our work, you can let us know on our Facebook page (www. facebook.com/brighterbridgeofweir) or our web site (www.brighterbridgeofweir. org), or simply email comment@brighterbridgeofweir.org. Meantime, we wish a Happy New Year to you all!

Bridge of Weir Community Council - Christmas Lights

Our Christmas Lights celebration was an overwhelming success where the largest crowd ever watched Gala Queen Cori Rankin, Attendant’s Sarah Feechan and Hannah McCann-Willis lead the countdown for the big switch on of the new enhanced village lights. Earlier at the Carol service the congregation in Freeland Church heard a most beautiful rendering of ‘O Holy Night’ sung by the Bridge of Weir Primary School Choir. The highlight of the evening was the arrival of our special guest all the way from Lapland, Santa appeared sirens blazing waving from the top of a Fire Engine. The evening concluded with refreshments provided by the Community Council in the Royal British Legion Hall where we were entertained by the Greenock Stedfast Silver Band, and the Children had the opportunity to visit Santa in his magnificent Grotto magically transformed

by Brighter Bridge of Weir. Finally the draw took place for the Christmas Hamper which was won by Morag Brock.

The Community Council extend a big thank you to Freeland Church, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Heritage Trust, The Royal British Legion Social Club, Greenock Stedfast Silver Band and Brighter Bridge of Weir for their contribution to the night.

The Community Council wishes everyone a very Happy New Year.

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Happy New Year to everyone! I would particularly like to send best wishes and thanks to all of the community groups and activists, who do so much in Bridge of Weir, Bishopton and Langbank to improve the quality of life for residents. There was very good news from the Scottish Government, which demonstrated its commitment to rural regeneration by pledging a minimum of £2 million to be shared across eight villages in Renfrewshire.

The money comes through the EU backed LEADER programme.

LEADER is an acronym in French which translates as ‘Links between actions for the development of the rural economy’. It’s about revitalising villages and creating jobs. I’m sure we all wish the programme success. cllr.maria.brown@renfrewshire.gov.uk; Telephone: - 03003 001259; Mobile: 07534 148734. Surgeries: - Bridge of Weir - 1st Tues of the month Cargill Hall 11am – 11.30am. Bishopton/Langbank - 2nd Wed of the month Bishopton Community Library 6.15pm - 6.45pm

Bridge of Weir SWRI

The next meeting of the Rural is on Thursday 8th January in the British Legion at 7.45pm and is a joint meeting with the Horticultural Society, where Bobby Carruth will give a talk on “Growing Vegetables in Containers”.

Celebrating Burns at Bernie’s

Happy New Year!

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

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

FRIDAY 23 JANUARY - Burns & Scottish Family Event– Children (age 7 and over) can come to a rehearsal with Karen of H-arts on Thurs 22nd for an hour and be ready to perform some of our very own Scottish culture for you on the 23rd Burns Burger, Burns platter, Scotch pie or veggie option. Booking required to take part in the entertainment.

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

Note that an adult must remain on the premises during the Thurs rehearsal

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

SATURDAY 24 JANUARY - Burns’N’Stuff– A lighthearted celebration of Burns and general Scottishness. With poetry, parodies and the comedy of Jessie & Mary

Also, if there’s a tattoo you’ve come to regret, now is the time to deal with it with Laser Tattoo Removal sessions starting at just £20.

Enjoy a Burns Burger, Scotch pie or veggie option. Tickets £15 ... Adults only

If your skin just needs a pick me up, Carbon Laser Facials or Microdermabrasion are just £40 and will leave your skin glowing and fresh.

SUNDAY 25 JANUARY - Burns Night– Traditional poems, addresses and songs. Slots available for you to take part in readings or addresses (just ask at the time of booking).

Clay Body Wraps also available at £38.

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

Burns platter, cheddar & oatcakes, a malt whisky (or Irn Bru) toast.

Tickets £20.

Please call 01505 228095 for further information or to book an appointment.

Booking & tickets from Bernie’s Cafe/Deli, 1 Neva Place, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. Tel:- 01505 614333.

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bishopton, langbank ..................................................... & bridge of weir

Langbank SWRI

The latest meeting of Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association was well attended with Councillors Mike Holmes and James MacLaren along with members of Renfrewshire’s Wardens Service in attendance.

91, but it will not be well known that Mrs Lamont did as much as anyone to keep open a Post Office in Bridge of Weir.

Open Night Fund Raiser. ‘A Fiddler`s Rally’ featuring the Bearsden Fiddlers will be held on the Thursday, 15th January 2015 at Gleddoch House Hotel at 7.30pm.

Tickets £5 available from Marion Dornan 01475 540 511. Proceeds for Langbank Church Fabric Fund.

T.A.R.A - Bridge of Weir Tenants Irene Lamont and Residents Association Mrs Irene Lamont (known to her friends as Rene) died on 12th November aged A recent Walkabout by TARA members, local Councillors and Drew McNab from Renfrewshire Council resulted in the immediate removal of the streetlight at Castle Terrace on safety grounds. A number of other streetlights have been identified as needing attention throughout the village and these will be dealt with in due course.

Although the situation has improved after letter drops and visits to residents and businesses from Renfrewshire Council waste advisors and the Wardens Service there are still some empty bins causing obstruction along the Main Street, both council agencies will continue to monitor the situation.

In September 2011, a steering group had the option of taking over the old library and reopening the post office in that building. The group calculated that it would need funds of at least £15,000 before making a commitment and it delivered a leaflet to every house in Bridge of Weir seeking donations and support.

Mrs Lamont sent a letter in reply saying that she would underwrite whatever was needed and by arrangement I called at her flat. Her first words to me were something like - ‘I know you want to check that I am not gaga’, but it only took a few minutes in her company to know that she was alert, incisive and did not suffer fools.

Dog fouling is still a major problem throughout the village with pavements and local parks still being polluted at regular intervals, once again dog owners are asked to act responsibly and clean up after their pets.

Irene Lamont’s generous offer gave the steering group the confidence to move forward before all donations came in and in the end Mrs Lamont made a very generous contribution. The Bridge with its new Post Office opened on 28th November 2011 (in time for Christmas) with press, councillors and other local dignitaries present. Mrs Lamont had been asked to do the opening and at the appointed time she produced the written speech from her handbag. She spoke with passion and eloquence about the people’s post office.

An extra traffic detector is to be installed at the junction of Main Street and Torr Road to monitor the affect traffic turning right onto the Torr Road is having on the flow of traffic along the Main Street.

Paul Birch - Chairman, The Bridge (Bridge of Weir) SCIO.

The Wardens have advised that any rubbish left at but outwith the community recycling bins in Livery Walk car park, will depending on the amount, be treated as either littering or fly tipping and the Wardens will issue fines or take other appropriate action against those caught leaving rubbish in this manner.

The next meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA will be in the Pirie Centre at Freeland Church on the 20th January 2015 at 7.30pm.

Bridge of Weir Comm. Council

Mrs Irene Lamont is remembered with thanks and affection by all the trustees at The Bridge and all those involved with the charity who knew her.

RagBag Recycle Bin Langbank

The Community Council agreed to support residents from the Shillingworth area in their objection to a planning application by Persimmon Homes for 50 detached properties at Shillingworth Farm. The site formally greenbelt, but released for housing in last year’s Renfrewshire Council’s Local Development Plan. The grounds for objection are the scale of the development, proximity of the new boundary and limited landscaping between existing dwellings.

There is now a permanent RagBag Recycle bin sited in the school car park of Langbank Primary School for any of your unwanted textiles (no duvets or pillows). Any money raised from this will go to Langbank Playgroup. If anyone has any items and is unable to get to the recycle bin please call Jacqueline on 01475 540728. Thank you in advance.

New Traffic Calming measures have been introduced on the Kilmacolm Road entrance to the village early indications are they could have been much better.

The 20’s plenty sign at Lintwhite Crescent is to be relocated to accommodate better vision.

THE BRIDGE, Bridge of Weir

A number of the cycle bays at the bottom corner of Livery Walk car park are to be removed allowing more car parking space, at the meeting it was reported that cyclist’s prefer to use the bays on Livery Walk.

A request is to be made for improved speed limit signage from the off-slip at Morrison’s Johnstone to Bridge of Weir.

The Police reported six crimes of which one has been detected. They included a common assault, fraud of £5800 and one under the dangerous dog act.

Members of the Community Council are to attend a Social Media training session with a view to the Community Council opening a Facebook page in early 2015.

The next meeting of the Community Council is not until the first Tuesday in February however contact on any relevant matter affecting the village can be made through our website visit www.bridgeofweir.org

D.E.R.A - Donaldfield Estate Residents Association Notice to all residents a date for your diary ......

The next open meeting will be our Annual General Meeting in The Bridge community centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir on Tuesday 6th January 2015 at 7.30pm. I would like to encourage all residents of the estate to attend as it will also be a social event with light refreshments and a bite to eat. RSVP by 31/12/14 (by email or Facebook message).

Sec alisonross256@btinternet.com

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Happy New Year to our customers, volunteers and employees. A big thank you for using the Post Office, Shop and Community Centre during 2014. Sales of the Bridge of Weir calendar and Christmas Cards were outstanding. A great incentive to us for 2015! Is 2015 the year a friend or relative will celebrate a landmark birthday? Send your good wishes with a date specific card. These are very popular - please buy early to avoid disappointment!!

The use of the Community Centre continues to increase. The monthly Hard of Hearing Clinic is very well used and appreciated by village residents. The Citizens Advice Bureau provides a fortnightly bookable service. Our weekly Bridge Class is very popular on Friday afternoons. Surgeries are held by some of our elected representatives. Films, shown on a fortnightly basis, are well attended.

A new venture for a New Year - on Wednesday 14th January between 10.30am and 12 noon a weekly drop-in Hobby Group will commence. Ladies and gents please come along with, or without, your hobbies and join together to chat as you work. You never know, you may be introduced to a new hobby or pick up tips from others to expand your existing knowledge. We look forward to welcoming you.

The Bridge also boasts a drop in café, ever-changing art exhibitions, sales of used books and a showcase for the sale of gifts produced by local craft workers.

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

(Opening Hours: Mon – 9am to 5pm (PO closed 12 noon to 12.30pm); Tues & Fri – 1pm to 5pm; Wed & Thu – 10am to 2pm; Sat – 9am to 1pm)

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Website For Those Who Died In The Great War

The Bridge of Weir Memorial Society is delighted to announce the launch of their website which tells the stories of the 72 young men whose names are commemorated on war memorials in Bridge of Weir.

The idea for telling their story came from the 12 names on a memorial in Freeland Church of Scotland in the village, and a realisation that the memorial could tell us nothing about them, not even their first names. The real people behind the names were becoming forgotten. A group of volunteers have been researching the Freeland Fallen and have now extended the project to find out about the other names.

I hope you had a very Happy Christmas and I wish everyone a good New Year.

Gordon Masterton, Chairman of the Bridge of Weir Memorial Society, told The Advertizer, “Since launching the site on Armistice Sunday we’re delighted that more relatives have already made themselves known to us, and provided new information. Memories of these young men of Bridge of Weir are coming to life again.”

More information can be found on the website at www.bridgeofweirmemorial. co.uk Bishopton Parish Church will be celebrating their Bicentenary this year. To mark the occasion they will be producing a book describing 200 years of the church’s work in Bishopton since the present church was built in 1814-15. I was delighted to support the application to the Local Area Committee to part-fund the production of this book.

I have reported various potholes and streetlights in need of repair across the ward. This includes the lamppost at the war memorial in Bridge of Weir which will be replaced. The council will be increasing the number of parking bays in Livery Walk car park in Bridge of Weir as it is clear the car park cannot meet the demand.

The Bridge on Main Street will be showing four Italian films throughout January and February – Malena (9th Jan), Il Postino (22nd Jan), Mediteranneo (6th Feb) and La Strada (12th Feb). Shows start at 7pm. An excellent and affordable way to end your week and set yourself up for the weekend with some culture and good company.

A happy new year to all in Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank – I hope 2015 brings health and happiness to all.

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

As I write this letter, we are still in December and the Weather Bomb has hopefully done its worst. Don’t neglect your car just because it is cold and nasty outside. Make sure you have enough antifreeze in the coolant and plenty screenwash for the windscreen. Check your tyres periodically and make sure you have plenty tread.

The idea of a village trust seems to have appealed in Langbank and this is good to see. Hopefully there will be a speaker along at the next community council meeting to say more on this, but do follow what is going on by joining the Langbank Matters Facebook page.

In all the villages there seems to be complaints about the poor bus service or no bus service. This got me thinking about Community Transport. If anyone or group would like to take this forward and organise a community transport system then I would be only too happy to help them get this set up. Please get in touch.

I am aware of the parking restrictions around the station at Bishopton. Would residents like to see resident parking permits introduced in the area? Please let me know. Problems are exacerbated by the building of a ramp up to the station at the moment, but the development in Dargavel may also bring more congestion in the area.

I can be contacted by phone on 0300-300-1291 or by email to cllr.james. maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk and I am also on 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.

A Stylish Floor For The Next 20 Years....

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Now is the perfect time to invest in your dream floor.

Karndean is inspired by nature and looks and feels spectacular. It comes in wood and stone effect, but unlike natural wood it is very hardwearing and, unlike ceramics it wont crack or chip!

Tired of your pets’ mucky footprints and juice spills from the kids? These are easily mopped up so staining and fading are not an issue.

Perfect for busy homes, it is easily maintained, but will still look great in years to come. With a large choice of styles to choose from you can

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tailor the look to suit your own decor.

Karndean even adjusts to temperature and will be cool in summer and warm in winter.

With up to 20 year guarantees you can relax for many festive seasons to come knowing that your floor is looking its best!

Orchard Flooring have 14 years’ experience in fitting Karndean and Amtico and are happy to offer advice on picking the best options for each 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

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the advertizer

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk The Planning Board will consider an application in the name of GMW Balrossie (in liquidation) at our January Board. The receiver is renewing the permission which was granted for 40 units (5 in Balrossie House, 1 Villa, 1 in Water Tower and 33 new build). This renewal is meant to facilitate the marketing of the site.

howwood

& elderslie .....................................................

Elderslie Christmas Switch on

Elderslie Community Council has called on Renfrewshire villagers to get more involved in community activities after sponsoring a successful Christmas lights switch-on event.

The people of Elderslie came out in their hundreds to see the Christmas lights switch on and to take part in several Community Council organised activities including a children’s Santa parade, presents and carol singing, led by St Anthony’s School Choir.

After local schoolgirl Ellie Whitehill did the honours, St Andrews Trinity Brigade Band continued the festive atmosphere with a selection of songs. After Santa gave out presents to delighted children, the crowds were treated to tea and refreshments kindly provided by The East Gate Church.

Councillor McColgan and myself officiated at the switch on of the Christmas lights in Quarriers and Kilmacolm. Kilmacolm Primary were to the fore with a resounding performance of their choir at the Cargill. Santa’s helper and official switcher on was Ann Wright from KPS. The winners of the Community Council children’s competition were Alfie and Alistair (no second names) and the best dressed shop windows were Wild Rose (1st), followed by Gibb Stuart and Fernie & Florence. The KCC also had a prize raffle and are to be thanked for their support of what is a really well attended event.

Raynesway Construction have been awarded the contract for the replacement of the Nittingshill Bridge in Quarriers Village. The contract is £279,000 and will replace the current temporary structure. The current situation has not been satisfactory, but the traffic lights have certainly acted as a deterrent to speeding. Work should start soon.

As reported, the Corlic Hill Windfarm application was unanimously refused by the Planning Board in November, but because of its sheer size it had to be endorsed by Full Council. After some debate the leader of the SNP Group moved approval, but this was defeated by 14-3. The developer now has the right to appeal to Scottish Ministers. I hope he does not, 700 representations against and 1 in favour of the application is, in my view and that of the majority of my colleagues, pretty conclusive.

The red pillar box has been painted to the delight of Hamish. We will have to be watchful during the demolition of the Institute that the box and the benches donated by the Scouts and Guides are not damaged. The Co-operative have been granted an alcohol license for what will be their new convenience store on the site of the Institute, in my view a bonus for the village.

The New Year will be busy with the Westminster Election, but I hope will not be as emotionally draining as the Referendum.

Denis Wadsworth, Chair of the Community Council said:

I have thoroughly enjoyed the nativities at KPS and its Nursery and will report on the KPS and St Columbus carol services in the next edition.

“It was the enthusiastic support of the people of Elderslie made the switch-on such a great evening, but special thanks to Forgotten Dreams for the Santa suit, local stores Nisa and the Village Butcher as well as Easton Estate Agents for supplying gifts”

My surgeries are 17th January 3 Sisters Bake in Quarriers 10am-11am and 24th in the Cargill 10am-11am. I can be contacted on david.wilson@inverclyde. gov.uk and on 01475 712727, 741969 and 07766 992294.

Mr Wadsworth, a retiree and father of two added: “There is no good reason why other communities can’t replicate our successful night here in Elderslie, all it takes is a little organisation, commitment and support from the local community and there’s no reason that with continued local support we can’t have many more fantastic local events”

Howwood WRI Young People Projects Meet in Howwood Village Hall at 7.30pm Tuesday 20th January.

Dogs Trust Livingstone.

by

Emma-Louise

Competition - Animal Ornament.

Hostesses - Eileen Smith & Jennifer Dell.

Vote of thanks - Irene MacTaggart.

Well that’s the Christmas and New Year celebrations over for another year. I hope you and your family had a good time.

I am sure you will agree that the community council put on a great show at the switch on of the Christmas lights . Everybody seemed to enjoy the evening especially the children.

Towards the latter part of the year I was involved in a series of events over a 16 day period. These local events were to heighten awareness of domestic abuse. For many of the women involved in the campaign it was a very emotional time. It was a very successful couple of weeks and I was pleased to play albeit a small part in the activities.

During the December meeting of the Community Council the idea of a Christmas tree for the village was discussed . Please let me know your views on this issue.

The administration of the council are preparing for its budget due in February.

This will be the last budget before the general election and of course before the Smith reports recommendations are implemented.

It will be interesting to see how councils and local services will benefit from this change in how Scotland is governed .

I have had complaints about parking at the railway station in Howwood. Please let me know if you have any issues with cars parked in this area .

My next surgery in the village hall is on the 22nd January at 6pm.

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Gryffe Valley Rotary’s programme of projects, aimed at helping young people to achieve their potential, is now well underway. Support was again provided to the Gryffe Photographic Club for their Schools Photographic competition, with John Douglas awarding the overall trophy to St Fillan’s school. Members were really impressed with the quality of the winning photographs which were displayed at a recent meeting.

Rotary’s Young Chef competition got underway with the local heat held at St Columba’s. In a high calibre competition against the clock, Kirsty Louden of St Columba’s just edged out Erika-Jane Martin of Gryffe High to go forward to the Rotary District finals in January. Thanks are due to Gibb Stuart Home Hardware who again sponsored the event with the support of Le Creuset.

Challenging topics were chosen for the local heat of the Rotary Youth Speaks competition which has just been held at the Royal British Legion Club in Bridge of Weir. “Violence in the Cinema” was addressed by the all boys St Columba’s team, and “The Invasiveness of Technology in our Lives”, featuring the impact of social media on the younger population, was explored by the all girls Gryffe High team. Following very close contest with some lively contributions, the Gryffe High team of Bethany Craig, Claire Cassidy and Rebecca McKay just won through to the Rotary District finals.

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kilmacolm ..................................................... & quarriers

Christian Aid Coffee Morning in Kilmacolm

Christian Aid committee in Kilmacolm are holding a JANUARY SALES day, on Saturday 10th January at 10am-12noon. In Kilmacolm New Community Centre. Generous donations which will be on sale include a keyboard organ, two guitars, posh clothing including skiing gear, dvds, cds, and books. All proceeds will be sent directly to Christian Aid Scotland, the total will be matched by the UK government under a scheme open until 5th February, so we can double your money. If you have any items you would like to be included in the January Sale, please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393. Please come along and support the Sale, and enjoy refreshments at the Hub. All proceeds are being directed to Christian Aid’s work in areas suffering Ebola.

The Angel Voices Choir

The Angel Voices Choir continues to grow and thrive. Our Music Director is Helen Knight and is assisted by piano accompanist Archie Morris. As well as professional training to sing, the children learn to read music and sing both sacred and secular music. Recently the Choir enjoyed singing at venues in Kilmacolm and taking part in St Fillan’s Advent Carol Service and the Nine Lessons and Carol Christmas Service.

Please see local paper and posters for my surgery dates.

I wish everyone a very Happy New Year.

We would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

December was a busy month with the highlights including the Christmas lights switch-ons in Quarrier’s Village and Kilmacolm. We were also pleased to attend the excellent Christmas shows at Kilmacolm Primary. Well done to the staff and pupils for the hard work they put in to making the shows such a great success.

In our December column we discussed the difficult financial situation facing the Council and stressed how important it was for your views to be heard in the run up to the Council’s budget being set at a meeting in February 2015. Public consultation events have been held across Inverclyde, including one in Kilmacolm Community Centre on 11th December.

The feedback from these events will help inform the decisions to be taken by elected members.

There is still time to submit your views as part of the Council’s online interactive budget simulator. It only takes a few minutes and can be accessed at https:// inverclyde.budgetsimulator.com/. The tool allows you to analyse the savings proposals from the three directorates and then gives you the opportunity to balance the Council’s budget by selecting the savings you would take. The budget consultation is open until 17th January.

It has been three months since the Council’s decriminalised parking enforcement scheme became operational. Following discussion at the November meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council it was agreed that an official from the Roads Service be invited to the February meeting to provide an opportunity for local residents and traders to inform the Council’s review of the parking strategy for Kilmacolm.

In the New Year Angel Voices will be rehearsing for their entry in the Mixed Choir category of the Inverclyde Music Festival - hoping to retain the trophy they won last year! We welcome new members at anytime – both girls and boys from the age of 6years. Contact Maureen Russell by email maureenmrussell@hotmail. com or 01505 872905.

Looking for a Venue?

Children’s Party?

Regular Class?

Kilmacolm Guide Hut has recently been re-furbished and is a fantastic facility in the village with easy access and parking for community events, parties or regular classes. If you are interested in hiring the Hut please contact Jackie on 01505 873488.

We are now approaching the end of the second year of the implementation of the Council’s £29m roads asset management plan. At this point in the financial year thirty of the thirty-two originally planned carriageway projects have been completed and an additional three projects have been brought online from the approved reserve list. The remaining projects will be carried out over the coming months. Hopefully you are starting to see the benefits of this major investment programme by the Council.

Officers are working on next year’s programme and a report will go before the Environment & Regeneration Committee in March. We will provide you with details of the approved programme in our April column.

Councillor McColgan My surgeries this month are on Thursday 8th January, 6pm-7pm in Clune Park Resource Centre and Tuesday 20th January, 6pm-7pm in Boglestone Community Centre.

You can reach me on 01475 712727 (during office hours) and 07881 280016 (anytime) or by emailing me at james.mccolgan@inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock PA15 1LY. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my website: http:// jamesmccolgan.com. You can also follow me on Twitter @jamesmccolgan.

Councillor McCabe My surgeries this month are on Tuesday 13th January, 5pm-6pm in St Francis’ Primary School and Tuesday 27th January, 6.30pm-7.30pm in Kilmacolm Community Centre.

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

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kilmacolm ..................................................... & quarriers

Outlook

OUTLOOK, formed for friendship and fellowship.

Meetings resume in Kidston Hall on Thursday 15th January at 2pm, with Keep Fit activities, and afternoon tea. On 5th February we look forward to welcoming our special guest, Prof Frank Walker who will give an insight into ‘My Other Life’, an Adriatic Odyssey.

Please come along to the OUTLOOK meetings, everyone is most welcome, the programme is varied with something to suit us all.

Bridge Classes There will be a further set of classes: in Kilmacolm Community Centre on Wednesday Evenings from 7.15pm - 9.15pm 26th February until 30th April (8 weeks) This class is suitable for anyone who has played some Bridge and who wishes to improve their Game. It is not suitable for absolute beginners at this time. For further information please call 01505 872345.

A necklace has been found on the pavement in Kilmacolm just at the corner of Market Place and Bridge of Weir Road. Call The Advertizer office on 01505 613340 if you think this may be yours. We are closed until Tuesday 6th January, but can be reached on our Facebook page, or just leave a message.

Sam is now qualified, she was busy in December, but is offering a 30% discount for the months of January & February to build up her clients.

Charlene is offering a 10% discount for the months of January & February.

This offer is only valid on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Please cut out this advert and take it with you for the discount.



Necklace Found

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty 

7th January until 28th January (4 weeks)

Do you need to get into shape this year? Why not try the Flabelos machine?

By just standing on the machine for 10 mins is equivalent to an hour at the gym! There are 3 different programmes to choose from. For the month of January we are reducing the price from £30 to £20 for a 4 week course!

Go on - shed those pounds and tone up in the New Year!

We offer an ‘Old Age Pension’ discount on a Tuesday and Wednesday, and a 20% discount to students on Tuesdays and Wednesdays too!

Call the Salon for further information or to arrange an appointment on 01505 871280.

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch .....................................................

Eat Lochwinnoch Food Fayres

‘Eat Lochwinnoch’, which aims to promote the eating of healthy, local foods, would like to thank everyone who has supported the food fayres we have been organising over the past year, which were aimed at helping people to purchase from local suppliers and reduce food miles.

However, for the time being at least, we have decided to stop them. It’s disappointing, we know, as they added to the buzz of the village, however, council licensing rules were making it difficult to continue, along with other factors. We would like to thank Susie Herteleer of LEAP in particular, for her tireless work in support of the fairs, not least in the time-consuming chasing of potential stallholders to convert them from ‘interested’ to actually taking a pitch.

In the meantime, don’t forget our local shops stock a range of foods so that you don’t have to leave the village to get your cooking ingredients. For example, as well as selling butcher meat such as pork and bacon from Ardrossan, Heritage Farmers’ Market Shop also sells vegetables like carrots, leeks, swedes, potatoes and cheeses, oatcakes, eggs, butter, milk, balsamic dressings, rapeseed oil, salad bags. The Junction’s not just great for coffee and a bite to eat – Ivan also sells cheeses, tinned coconut milk, pasta, bread as well, of course, as Fairtrade tea and coffee.

Church Bible Class & Fewsion

Eat Lochwinnoch Organic Delivery Club

Kilbarchan Church Bible Class and Fewsion have been collecting donations throughout December for their annual “Put the Christ back into Christmas” campaign in aid of Mary’s Meals and as usual, have been delighted by the generosity of the church family. As well as this, 78 filled shoeboxes and a large cash donation were delivered to Blythswood for Eastern Europe and gifts were sent to the children of Easterhouse and the Paisley Women’s Refuge in the last month. Donations have also been accepted after concerts and services for various charities and local hospices.

If you’re keen to eat organic fresh fruit and veg then Eat Lochwinnoch runs a delivery service, where your order is delivered to the Heritage Farmers’ Market Shop.

Kilbarchan Pipe Band

In January, we will be changing our supplier to Locavore in Glasgow. All of their produce is sourced as locally as possible, with some of it being grown in their market garden in Neilston. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Eat Lochwinnoch (eatlochwinnoch@gmail.com)

Kilbarchan Pipe Band would like to say a MASSIVE thank you to everyone who, in lots of different ways, helped make our 1st ever Coffee Morning held on 29th November a huge success. We made over £1000 which was beyond our wildest dreams. This was our first fundraising event towards our invitation visit to France in 2016 for the centennial commemoration of the Battle of the Somme. We will keep you posted with regard to our other fundraisers. Thank you once again.



Seasons Greetings - Howwood and Lochwinnoch Hi-de-Hi - a great sucess The members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul wish all parishioners of the villages peace, health and happiness in this coming New Year.

SSVDP, Christ the King, Howwood, and Our Lady of Fatima, Lochwinnoch Parish

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 2015 Early announcement Some of the events for the 2015 Arts Festival 19th till 29th March 2015

• Karine Polwart Scottish singer-songwriter concert and Voice workshop and local artists • The Rose Room Jazz Band Swing music and the style of the great Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli the Gypsy Jazz genre

Kilbarchan East Church Drama Group’s production of Hi de Hi was a great success and thoroughly enjoyed by all of the large audiences who came along and supported the event.

Kilbarchan Churches

At the start of a New Year we invite everyone to join us as we work towards the union of the two churches in Kilbarchan.

• Art exhibition

The services for January are as follows:-

• Photography exhibition • Glasgow theatre Guild

Sunday 4th January – 11am – Joint Service in the East Church followed by an

Informal Communion

• The Rock Choir and local singers

Sunday 11th January – 11am – Joint Service in West Church

• Susie Lamont pupils concert

Sunday 18th January – 11am – Joint Service in East Church

• The Capitol Big Band

Sunday 25th January – 11am – Joint Service in West Church

• A night at the Opera and other classical music

Crèche, Junior Church and FEWsion meet as usual and all our services will be conducted by the Rev Stephen Smith.

• Celtic music workshops • Writers Bernard McLafferty and Catherine Mcphail • Lochwinnoch Coral society • Craft Fairs

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The Midweek Fellowship resumes in the West Church Session House on Wednesday 7th January at 10.30am.

The first meeting of the Guild will be in the East Church Hall on Tuesday 13th January at 2.30pm. Alan Downs will show slides and talk about Peru. On the 27th January we are in the West Church Hall and welcome Sheina Ross who will talk about the history of Coats of Paisley, the thread manufacturers.

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the advertizer

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch .....................................................

2014 will go down in history as one of the most momentous years for the country, but the New Year also holds out big opportunities for Scotland and for our village communities like Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch. We have a new First Minister in Nicola Sturgeon MSP and, having known her since she was a young woman on the SNP NEC, I am convinced she will serve both the Scottish Government and Scotland with distinction and vision.

National Women’s Register

2015 sees the National Conference taking place in the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow on Saturday 20th June - the first time for us in the Glasgow area. Two Kilbarchan members are involved in the organising committee, so an exciting time ahead for local groups. The new session for Kilbarchan NWR starts with a planning meeting and a Silent Auction, followed by a discussion about the history of the Magna Carta. If you’d like to come along or find out more about our organisation, please contact the website: www.nwr.org.uk

Old Library Centre Kilbarchan

Looking back over the year we have had some wonderful concerts, excellent attendance at our classes and groups, support from those who use the Centre’s office facilities and the computer suite. We have welcomed many visitors to Kilbarchan who browsed through the photographic albums and traced family roots. We provided leaflets, directions, local information and cups of coffee.

Our resident computer expert has informed, repaired and sorted out computer problems for many people. We have been delighted to have a regular group of volunteers who have helped in many ways; setting up and clearing away for concerts, meetings, training sessions and exhibitions. Our garden has been kept in order. There is still a very loyal band of people who annually contribute financially. To all these unnamed heroes the KIPCo board wish to say a very big thank-you and to wish you all a Good New Year.

Our new computer tutors are supplied by West College Scotland. A warm welcome awaits new class mates.

We open on Monday 5th January – 10am - 12noon and 2pm - 4pm.

Details of all our activities are on www.kipcokil.com and on the Centre’s windows. Call 01505 706070 for further details.

Missing Cat

Sid has been missing from the New Street area of Kilbarchan since 5th November. He is a neutered and chipped, all grey male cat, with green eyes and no collar. He is friendly but timid with strangers, can be quite vocal and will chat with you from afar if you talk to him. If you have any information on Sid, please call Barbara on 07970 113 727, visit facebook. com/missingcatsinscotland, or email missingcatsinscotland@ yahoo.co.uk.

Lochwinnoch SWRI Coffee A Happy new Year to all our members and Morning friends.

The January meeting is on Wednesday 21st January 2015 at 7.30pm in the McKillop Hall.

The speaker is Mrs Margaret Dundas “A Taste of Burns” an evening of poetry and song. We look forward to your company on that evening.

For further information call Elma Richmond 01505 843193 or richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

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Friends of St Vincent’s Hospice are holding a coffee morning on Saturday 31st January in Kilbarchan East Church Hall from 10am 1pm.

Please come along with family and friends and support your local hospice.

At the last Economy and Jobs Board meeting in Renfrewshire Council the Scottish Government showed its strong commitment to villages like Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch by pledging a minimum of £2 million for rural regeneration in eight of Renfrewshire’s village communities, including Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, through the EU backed LEADER programme. This represents the best kind of First Foot that our villages could get for 2015, with significant investment to enhance visitor and tourist amenities, environmental improvements, and crucial support for businesses and social enterprises in the villages promised over the next few years.

Since the sad demise of the RBS branch, and the move of the Post Office into the Spar Store, in Lochwinnoch, I have been lobbying RBS, Spar, and PO regional management to smooth out issues that have arisen. I will continue to be pro-active on this, but I am also promoting the idea of a Lochwinnoch Credit Union, to provide real community based financial services for the village, if you want to support this idea please contact me and we can get a steering committee set up.

My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall at 7:45pm, and my advice surgery in Lochwinnoch is on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 7:30pm. I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8 or e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

A Happy New Year to everyone in Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch.

Thank you to those residents of Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch who sent me their suggestions regarding roads and pavements improvements to be included in next years programme.

I have sent these to Renfrewshire councils roads department in response to other concerns, I have also asked that the drains and gullies be treated as a priority through the winter.

I have once again written to SPT regarding the level of the bus service in Lochwinnoch, and also to Key coaches to ask them to synchronise the arrival and departure times of their existing service with those of the train.

I can also report that following suggestions from residents a traffic warning sign has now been erected at the entrance to Kilbarchan cemetery.

The year 2015 will see a special anniversary to mark the achievements of one of the most significant Scottish social and political figures of the early 20th century who was born in Kilbarchan, Mary Barbour was born in New Street in the village in 1875 and spent her childhood in Kilbarchan, moving to Elderslie and then to Glasgow. She was instrumental in pioneering a number of social welfare reforms for mothers and children, which predated the welfare state. Arguably her greatest achievement was the help she gave to families of soldiers serving in the first world war who were being exploited by unscrupulous land lords the protests she led resulted in major housing reform. Her achievements have already featured recently in a number of radio and TV programmes. Glasgow, where Mary spent her adult life, is planning to mark her achievements. It was suggested to me that Kilbarchan may wish to do likewise in 2015.

Discussions have already taken place with members of the Community Council and officers of Renfrewshire Council with a few ideas being put forward.

To this end a public meeting in the Old Kilbarchan Library will take place on Monday 9th February at 7.30pm where a speaker from the Glasgow group will also be in attendance.

My surgeries are on the first Saturday of the month except January and July at 9am at the McKillop Institute and 10am at the Steeple Hall.

Meantime please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or by phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007.

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january 2015

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houston, crosslee ..................................................... & brookfield

Houston HOST - The Carrick Centre, Church of the Nazarene Houston What’s on January 2015

Monday to Friday Woodlands After School 01505 615438

MONDAY Embroiderer’s Guild (weekly) 10am.

Rockstar Tumbling Class Start 12th R. Hart 07734 714131. Diaporama 12th 7.30pm Young Farmers 5th /12th/19th /26th 7.30pm. Yoga (weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw 01505 842877.

TUESDAY Paint Pot tots (weekly) 10am D Campbell 07789 262350. Farmers Discussion Society 13th 7.30pm. Yoga (Weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690.

WEDNESDAY Camera Club (weekly) 7.30pm. French Class 3.15pm F McDevitt 0141 886 282.

Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 4pm Laureen 07989 055148. Gryffe Melody Makers 7pm. Houston Community Council 21st 7.30pm. Councillors Surgeries 21st 6.30pm THURSDAY French Class F McDevitt 0142 886 282. Crafty Friends 15th/29th 7.30pm.

Quilting Group 8th, 15th & 22nd. Folk Club (weekly) 8pm FRIDAY Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 4pm SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 9.30am SUNDAY Baptist Church 11am & 6pm Booking enquiries to Ian Simpson 01505 612203 or Sandy Young 01505 331488 or The Coffee Shop

Houston Church of the Nazarene at the Village Hall Houston, Main Street, PA6 7EL, is celebrating it’s 17th Anniversary with a meal and Yvonne Lyon as our guest musician.

The event is on Saturday 24th January 2015 - Starts at 5.30pm6.45pm with a buffet meal and introducing Yvonne Lyon at 7pm.

Babies free, £2.50 children (aged 2-16) and Adults £7.50.

RSVP by 10th January 2015 Contact: Church secretary - Janine on 07817 632674.

Houston & Crosslee SWRI

Our first meeting of 2015 will be on 14th January when Christine Anderson and Margaret Scott will demonstrate “Quick Cooking”.

The Carriageway and Footway Resurfacing Programme for 2015/16 is currently being assessed and as in previous years Councillors are being asked for their views on road improvement priorities within their own area. Again we have been restricted to 3 or 4 roads or footpaths for consideration within each Ward and to list them in order of priority. Top of my list will be Piper Road, a road I fully expected to be included in the 2014/15 programme.

At the recent Economy and Jobs Board , the Scottish Government showed its strong commitment by pledging a minimum of £2 million for rural regeneration in eight of Renfrewshire’s village communities, through the EU backed LEADER programme. Howwood, Brookfield, Linwood, Lochwinnoch, Kilbarchan, Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank, are the villages benefitting from this funding in Renfrewshire. This represents significant investment to enhance visitor and tourist amenities, environmental improvements, and support for businesses over the next few years. Unfortunately Houston and Crosslee are not included in the list of villages.

As this edition of the Advertizer will be distributed towards the end of December may I wish everyone in Ward 9 a Happy and Peaceful Christmas time and Best Wishes for the New Year.

My surgeries are held on the second Tuesday of each month in Brookfield Village Hall from 6pm to 6.30pm then in Houston Village Hall from 7pm to 7.45pm.

We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston at 7.30pm.

I can be contacted by phone on 610018 or by e-mail at cllr.allan.noon@ renfrewshire.gov.uk or through Renfrewshire Council on 0300 300 12 65.

Visitors will be made very welcome.

Please telephone Elaine Johnston on 01505 324827 or email jemjohnston@tiscali.co.uk for further information.

Join Houston and Killellan choir

Kirk Extension

The new extension continues to move towards completion. The contractor is currently fitting out the inside of the new building after the completion of roof work.

Photographs of progress made are available on the Church website at www.houstonkirk.org .

There’s still room in the gallery for new members of our choir. If you’re looking for a new interest and fancy a bit of singing on a Thursday evening, why not come along to choir practice? Give it a try!

Speak to any choir member or to Peter McKerrell (at the organ), or just come to the Kirk any Thursday at 7.30pm. A welcome is guaranteed.

If you think your range is limited, don’t worry about the high or low notes. Most choir music is written for four voice ranges, so that means three quarters of the notes are intended to be sung by people with a different range. Deep voices particularly welcome.

Can You Help Out at the Carrick Centre, Houston

Houston Old School Trust are looking for an additional person to assist part time in the day to day management and running of the Carrick Centre. If you are interested, or for more information, please contact Ian Simpson on 01505 612203.

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The Garden - January 2015 Checklist

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Recycle your Christmas Tree!

Keep topping up birdfeeders.

Top up bird baths with fresh water daily and melt ice with warm water on frosty days.

Spread a layer of compost around shrubs and along the base of hedges.

We are offering ourselves as a recycling point to help with the green environment.

Cover bare ground with black plastic to warm soil so you can sow earlier next year.

Pop in to see us at Gowanlea Nurseries, Barochan Road, Johnstone, PA5 8YS - we are open 7 days a week.

You can contact us if you need further information on 01505 328921 or Scrub empty flowerpots with soap and water. When dry, store in a shed or garage.

Use a broom to brush snow from branches before the weight breaks them.

Pick faded flowers off pansies to prevent setting seed.

Prune apple and pear trees ready for spring.

Keep off the lawn when it is frozen, as your foot pressure can damage the grass irreparably. Use this reason as a great excuse to stay indoors and work out what to grow in the coming year. Put your feet up! Browse the new seed catalogues on paper or online and enjoy the break!.

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visit our website at www.gowanleanurseries.co.uk

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society The January lecture for the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society will be held on Wednesday 21st January at 7.30pm in the New Community Centre.

Our most popular speaker, Louise Bustard, senior curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, joins us to give a presentation of “The Gardens of the French Riviera and Italy’s Lakeland Gardens”. A perfect lecture for an evening in the bleak mid-winter! All are welcome, refreshments at end of lecture, please join us.

Lectures are held on the third Wednesday monthly, in February we welcome Ian Craig who is a world expert on Bees and beekeeping, and then in March we welcome Ian McCrorie, again a world expert, this time on the History of the Clyde Steamer Services, and the Waverley. These lectures complete a great 135th anniversary year, and thanks are due to everyone who supports the Society. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393.

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society

January’s meeting will be a joint meeting with the SWRI on 8th January 2015 at the earlier time of 7.45pm back in the Royal British Legion. Bobby Carruth will be speaking about, “ Vegetables in Small Gardens”.

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january 2015

Windows on Wildlife Update

The Old Library Garden

The Windows on Wildlife Project aims to bring people closer to wildlife, gaining a unique insight to the furry & feathered inhabitants of Castle Semple Country Park. Project Officer Hayley Douglas gives us an update.

Last year the Kilbarchan Community Council applied successfully to obtain

Event updates Happy New Year from the Windows on Wildlife Project. I hope the holidays were enjoyable and you all got a chance to relax and explore the woods and loch. If you spotted any of the animals please let me know. There are a number of events running this month. Firstly, the Big WoW Weekend will take place on Sat 17th and Sun 18th January at Castle Semple Visitor Centre between 10am & 4pm. It is a free event with the chance to watch all the recent footage from the animals and birds that we have filmed over the last couple of months. Pop in and say hello. Swan Chats continue this month and will take place on Sun 25th January between 1pm & 2pm. Again this event is free and takes place at Castle Semple. Please drop along at any time and see what the swans like to eat and learn about the different birds that inhabit the loch at this time of year.

Wildlife News The badgers are still really busy in the woods getting ready for the winter.

Tufty and Old Boy have been taking turns at digging out the sett and Tumble has been collecting bedding. Rough seems to show an interest in bedding collection, but gives up after a while and leaves the gathered bedding for the others to collect. He is still really playful and will spend a lot of time trying to get the others to play. Tumble still joins in, but Mum and Dad are quick to tell him off. You may have heard about the baby otter that was found in Kilbirnie and taken to Hessilhead. The little cub was found cold, wet and muddy and was taken home by a couple of young girls. She has been named Squeaky and was too young to be out the holt. It’s possible that Squeaky’s Dad is our very own dog otter Rob as we believe Squeaky’s mum has the territory next to the female we film. We can’t be sure, but the cub is in safe hands and will remain at Hessilhead before she is ready for release in a years’ time.

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a number of trees which were to be planted in the public park. Advice was sought from Renfrewshire Council’s Horticultural Department and the decision was taken that, as the trees were so small, they should be planted in a nursery bed until they were more a suitable size for planting in the park.

They have now been transplanted into larger pots and will be kept in The Old Library garden and are to be planted out in the Spring.

The KIPCo Board wish to thank the group of volunteers for helping in the replanting and to thank our regular garden volunteers.

More Info…

Details can be found on the Park’s website www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk or by emailing wow@clydemuirshiel. co.uk. Footage can be viewed on the Park’s Youtube channel or on the WoW Facebook page. Talks to groups can be arranged and volunteer with WoW by sending me an email.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: HAYLEY DOUGLAS Windows on Wildlife Project Officer – CMRP tel 01505 842 882 Ex 25.

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CMRP 2014 Round Up

January - New Community Cycling Club Ride 63 had their first ride out!

10 hardy mountain bikers went round Parkhill Woods in the dark!

We welcomed the Lochwinnoch Art Group for their annual ‘Art in the Park’ Exhibition at Castle Semple.

February - We revamped our Photographic Competition for Year of Homecoming Scotland and tried something a little different so we let you decide the winners via facebook this year!

March - West Coast Paddlers held the first annual Flatwater Symposium took place at Castle Semple.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk Glasgow Commonwealth Games Baton Bearers included Park staff – David Hill, Willie MacLeod, Kat Russell and Hayley Douglas in recognition for Sailability and charity work plus volunteer activities.

The Park’s campsite at Barnbrock was fully booked for the duration of the Commonwealth Games. The office staff were particularly impressed with the camaraderie of those staying when the site suffered a power cut!

August - Representatives from Europe and beyond visited Clyde Muirshiel through the Xchange Scotland volunteer programme to do conservation work and experience the best of Scotland’s largest Regional Park.

We said goodbye to Charlie Woodward, Regional Park Manager for the last 13 years.

April - Race 2 the games training began for many schools with Kersland celebrating the donation of their very own access boat by the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce.

Clydeside Orienteers came to Greenock Cut for their Nationals - nearly 250 competitors took part!

Castle Semple features in Euan’s Guide, the online review site for disabled access, we achieved 5 stars for our Sailability credentials and facilities!

May - Our new intern Jennifer started and was thrown straight in at the deep end with planning for our pre Commonwealth Games Legacy event Race 2 the games in July!

University of the West of Scotland student placements started - Lisa who worked with the WoW project and Chris and David in the Countryside Office doing GIS mapping and reptile surveys.

Three of the Park’s staff members, David Hill, Joanne McEwan and Neil MacDonald completed a 700 mile Three Lighthouse Challenge raising thousands for the local Sailing charity Able2Sail.

Park staff attended the John Muir Trust Conference for the most up to date info on Scotland’s most important conservation issues.

June - Race 2 the Games training began for James Reid School, North Ayrshire, with their own boat naming.

We received Race 2 the games support from HRH The Princess Royal, patron of RYA Foundation and Sailability and a recent visitor said “I send all the competitors, volunteers and supporters my best wishes for a most successful day on 2nd July as you race up the River Clyde.”

Moth evenings at Park HQ Barnbrock Farm, run by the Countryside Office team resulted in one of the most colourful moths the ‘Merveille du jour’ aka ‘marvel of the day’ being captured and photographed.

Planning began for the annual Scottish Multi-Class Regatta to be hosted at Castle Semple in June 2015.

September - The Sempill Clan gathered for Year of Homecoming and visited the relics of the estate followed by a picnic overlooking the loch.

Clyde Muirshiel and RYA Scotland hosted a joint thank you evening reception for volunteers/ supporters/ sponsors at Glasgow Science Centre for Race 2 the games and the Commonwealth Flotilla.

The WoW Project celebrated its second birthday and completion of the project. It surpassed a number of its goals, including the number of school children who saw footage, experienced wildlife photography workshops and the number of TV appearances on STV Glasgow.

Greenock Cut volunteer Katy received the highest Saltire Award for over 1500 hours work over 19 months!

October - Stargazing Evenings at Muirshiel Country Park got off to a great start with 38 people enjoying a wonderfully clear night in the deepest darkest hills of Renfrewshire!

Planning began for a new exciting cycling festival for 26th April 2015 called ‘Pedal the Park’. It will contain an event village, challenging sportive, family friendly and hand-biking elements!

Work started on the Semple Trail to install new ‘lookouteries’ interpretation points at several locations in Parkhill Woods and beyond.

We expanded our range of products to include delivery of fully accessible Duke of Edinburgh programmes.

The Scottish Western Thoroughbred Vehicle Club visited Greenock Cut Centre with a dazzling array of classic and vintage cars.

New purpose built toilet facilities opened at Lunderston Bay – making the many school trips much easier!

July - Clyde Muirshiel’s Race 2 the games event took place on the 2nd July on the River Clyde and has been hailed as a huge success by participants, partners and organisers.

November - Senior Ranger Mike and Countryside Ranger Claire attended the Scottish Countryside Ranger’s Association Ranger Rendezvous 2014 at Culzean Castle. There were many useful talks and workshops.

We say goodbye and good luck to intern Jennifer who successfully acquired a new permanent job thanks in part to the experience gained at Clyde Muirshiel.

The overall Photographic Competition winner was Ronnie McFadyen with his entry ‘Butterfly on Flower’.

December - The week before Christmas we completed the Park’s 15th Branching Out programme for mental health, the 3rd this year. We look forward to next year’s starting in the Spring.

Impressive Sightings this year: advocet, pied-billed grebe at Loch Thom and nuthatch at Muirshiel in April.

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RSPB Although the winter days may be short and dark, there is still plenty of exciting wildlife to be explored here at the RSPB Lochwinnoch! The continued presence of a slavonian grebe is a wonderful sight to behold on the Barr Loch, as well as a variety of wintering waterfowl, such as wigeon, coot and goosander. A sighting of a little egret has been another recent highlight from the Barr Loch – what a great place to spot wildlife!

However, if the chilly weather is just a bit too much, why not pop along to one of our winter talks and learn about wildlife from the cosy comfort of our visitor centre! We will be brightening up a dark evening on January 14th (7.30pm – 9pm) with a fantastic talk on ‘Wildlife in the Loire’ by Dave Mellor. Dave is a former keeper of natural history at Paisley museum, and he will be recounting to us knowledge of the birds, butterflies, plants and landscapes of central France that he has built up from regular visits to this region over the last several years.

We will also be holding a weekend afternoon talk on ‘Garden Birds over the Last 35 Years’ on Saturday 24th January 3pm – 4pm. This will be given

by Diane Lyons, a local field teacher and ecological surveyor with a keen interest in the natural world! Diane will speak about garden birds and their ups and downs, and how the RSPB’s Big Garden Bird Watch has helped our understanding over the last three decades. If you wish to attend either of these talks, please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers This year’s Big Garden Bird Watch takes place on the weekend of Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th of January, and you can take part on your own or as a family! It is the biggest wildlife survey in the world, and to get involved all you have to do is pick an hour over the weekend and tell us what birds you see! Even if you don’t have a garden, pop along to a local park or even come visit us at the reserve and get involved!

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Royalheart Greyhound Rescue

K9 CHAT: Dog Training Classes:

Established 2009. K9 CHAT will be starting more classes in the New Year. Please book early as class sizes are limited. Only positive rewarding training techniques used. K9 CHAT receives continued support and written permission from Renfrewshire Council to use our parks: We go to a different park every week so a car is a must as well as the appropriate clothing for our lovely Scottish weather. Please see our website for more information or send us an email. www.k9chat.co.uk - k9chatuk@googlemail.com PUPPY CLASSES: 12 wks-6mths at Lochwinnoch Annex - Wed Jan 7th at 7pm OUTDOOR DOG TRAINING CLASSES: Held on Sundays BEGINNERS CLASS: 6 months and older: teaching you how to get your dog under control when out and about.

COUNTRY WALKS: After the beginner’s class, (your dog must be fully grown), you are welcome to join us for long country walks.

The Royalheart Greyhound Rescue based at the Finalystone Estate Langbank have bins in Tesco Port Glasgow, both Lidls in Inverclyde, as well as the Cooperative in Greenock and the Nationwide Building Society to allow people to donate bedding, tins of food or towels over the winter.

Tesco in PG have allowed the rescue to keep the bin in the shop since last year, and this has really helped the rescue, which has allowed the funds collected to be used to save other dogs from pounds and other bad situations.

Inverclyde MP Iain McKEnzie, has recently been campaigning to stop dog racing down at Westminster and wanted to come along and promote the rescues winter campaign and also donated a lot of food for the bin.

Royalheart are still looking for people to help with walking the dogs and fundraising. Anyone who can help can contact them via their facebook page.

DOG GROOMING: We have been professional dog groomers since 2005, MWF book early.

Trusty Paws Clinic

The Trusty Paws Clinic is a new non-profit organisation set up by Glasgow Veterinary student Ruby Shorrock in March 2014. It is a free clinic for dogs belonging to the homeless of Glasgow providing health checks, vaccinations, flea/ worming treatment and microchips as well as food packs and dog coats.

Trusty Paws has teamed up with a charity, The Glasgow Simon Community, which has over 40 years experience in helping the homeless. The clinics run out of their drop-in centre every month, and have got off to a great start! Whilst Trusty Paws helps with the dogs, The Simon Community can help the people with their benefits.

The clinics are run by a team of Glasgow vet students so they gain valuable experience which will benefit them during their course and throughout their career.

They carry out all the examinations themselves under the supervision of a vet.

Trusty Paws runs entirely on public donations of money and supplies. You can donate via PayPal (trustypaws@outlook.com) or bank transfer. Visit www.facebook. com/trustypaws for more details.

Photo by Karen Gordon

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Re-homing Pets

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

Patsy - a 9 year old domestic cat Patsy is friendly and affectionate, but is a bit timid and sometimes give a wee swipe when she gets scared. She likes to rub against your legs and can be a sweet wee girl. She would like a home with older children, but no other pets.

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Johnstone Cat Rescue

We are struggling to cope and would appreciated any help you can give with fundraising.

Suzi - a 6 year old domestic cat Suzi’s owner sadly passed away. She is a nice wee girl and very cute as you can see. She would like a garden to potter about in and can be homed with older children, but not other pets.

Contact the centre for more details: Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341 Trudie - An 8 year old female Jack Russell Terrier: Reference: 287156 Trudie is a lovely girl who arrived in our care through no fault of her own and is now desperately looking for a new home to call her own. She would suit a home with either older children or no children. Trudie would thrive on plenty of attention, regular walks and a warm cosy bed to curl up in.

If you can help with anything at all, please call Sheena on 01505 337321 for further information on how to assist.

Thank you.

Wildlife Crime

Jake - 9 Year old male Crossbreed: Reference: 287058 Jake is a nice boy who arrived in our care through no fault of his own and is now desperately looking for a new home to call his own.

He would suit a home with either older children or no children. Jake would enjoy plenty of attention and a nice warm bed to curl up in. He would suit short regular walks.

To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca.org/rehoming Marley - a 1-2 year old male Crossbreed Marley loves his exercise and he loves to be learning. Marley needs his own secure garden to play in and learn new things. He can live with children who are 12 years old or over and would benefit from a calm, quiet home to help build his confidence. Marley needs several meets at the centre to build a relationship before going to his new home.

Strathclyde Police has a team of Wildlife Crime Officers who, as part of their normal policing duties, specialise in investigating wildliferelated crimes. To report a suspected wildlife crime or speak to an Officer, please call: Your local Police Office or Strathclyde Police HQ, 173 Pitt Street, G2 4JS or call 101 or 999.

Trudy - an 8+ year old female miniature Poodle Trudy is the most adorable wee older lady who just lives for cuddles and affection. She loves to fall asleep on your knee.

Trudy needs a very special retirement home who is willing to never leave her at home alone as she has severe separation anxiety. More than one adult in the home would help her have constant company. She can live with children who are 12 years old or over and needs a secure garden to potter in. A calm, quiet home would also help her settle. Trudy has some medical issues which Dogs Trust will help towards the cost of.

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

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Langbank Playgroup Each week at Langbank Playgroup is a little different and this time we set off on a walk to the local Primary. This isn’t far, but a wonderful learning experience on the way with all that we can see and hear plus lessons on road safety and just enjoying being outside with friends. These two certainly had a good time and a chat on the way round.

We then enjoyed St Andrew’s Day activities at school and had a good look around the classrooms and waved to some friends and siblings. In 2015, we look forward to more connections with school plus the excitement of visitors and trips plus lots of play and fun on a Friday morning. We welcome all children from 2yrs 6mths from Langbank and the surrounding areas. Please contact our Chair, Jacqueline, for details on 01474 540728.

Many thanks to all of those who have supported Langbank Playgroup throughout 2014 and we wish you all a Happy and Healthy 2015.

St Columba Church Playgroup and Toddlers

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REGULAR

groups

every Monday Kidston Kids Playgroup, Stay & Play

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 9.45am-11.45am Preschool children from Birth

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers

every Wednesday Kidston Kids Playgroup, Stay & Play

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 9.45am-11.45am

Preschool children from Birth

St Columba Toddlers

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 10am - 11.30am For children from birth to 3 years.

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers McKillop Hall. 9.30am-11.30am

McKillop Hall. 9.30am-11.30am £2/

£2/family fee includes tea and children’s snacks.

St Columba Playgroup

Howwood Playgroup

family fee includes tea & children’s snacks.

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am-11.40am

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group

Howwood Parish Church. 10am-12noon.

every Tuesday Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

Baby Social Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Vill. 11am Teamwork is a great life skill to learn and here we have a splendid example Meet mums, drink coffee & eat cake. of it in action at the sand pit with lots of discussion and sharing going on St Columba Playgroup too. We also have one of our wonderful parent-helpers getting involved St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, which is a great opportunity for the children to interact with another adult 9.30am-11.40am and make conversation. So lots of opportunities for learning and having fun Howwood Playgroup at Playgroup and we look forward to more Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am play and new experiences in 2015. Many thanks to Jo James of Musicland who led six marvellously loud singing sessions for us in the autumn and we look forward to Liz Murray of Octokids joining us in January for dancing. Many thanks also to all the families who supported the children’s hand and footprint 2015 calendar and if you are very quick, there might just be one left! If you are interested in a playgroup place then please get in touch by emailing stcolumbachurchplaygroup@gmail.com Our toddler group runs on Wednesday’s between 10am and 11.30am for children from birth to 3 years, and is a great chance for your little ones to try out different toys and make new friends and for parents and carers to get together over a cup of tea for a chat, we always look forward to welcoming new faces to the group. We start back on Wednesday 7th January so please contact our Toddler secretary Beth for more information on thebbles@hotmail.com

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Thursday Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

St Columba Playgroup

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.15am-11.40am

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Friday Kidston Kids Playgroup, Stay & Play Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 9.45am11.45am Preschool children from Birth

Langbank Under 3’s

Church Hall, Langbank 10am-11.45am For children from birth to 3 years

1st & 3rd Friday Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch 1011.30am £3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa.

Johnstone High School

Johnstone High School

Johnstone High School is looking for parents to join its Parent Council. Does your child go to Johnstone High School? Johnstone High School (JHS) is looking to develop its Parent Council and it needs new members. Would you be interested in helping the strategic direction and practice of the school; do you have professional talents that could help support JHS; or could you help represent parental views on key educational issues in the school?

Christmas Jumper Day

JHS Parent Council will meet twice a term. These meetings take place during the week in the evening. This works out at approximately one meeting every two months.

Some members of the Council may wish to take on other duties like fund raising, organising events or representing the parents at certain meetings. The next meeting will be Monday 12th January 2015 at 7pm at the school.

An active and engaged Parent Council can have a positive impact on the pupils and benefit the whole school. If your child is at Johnstone High School hopefully you will be able to spare a couple of evenings per term to support the school. If you are interested please send an email to graham.munro@renfrewshire.gcsx.gov.uk for further details.

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Five S6 girls (Emma Vaughan, Evie Fowler, Rebecca Allan, Rosie Forsyth and Clara Burke) organised a Christmas Jumper Day on 12th December in aid of Save the Children.

They managed to raise £450 which will be matched with government funding. The photograph shows the girls with some members of staff who helped out.

Well done everyone!

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Kilmacolm Primary School The Nativity and Christmas Show was an exciting time in school. The Nursery children confidently performed their Nativity on the 16th of December and similarly, our P1 and 2 Nativity highlighted our confident and independent pupils. Despite being young, they spoke clearly and with such animation. The P2 choir and orchestra also played a range of instruments for the Nativity and showed excellent rhythm and singing.

Our Christmas Show certainly did highlight the many talents of P4-7. We were even lucky enough to have many talented parents who volunteered to come in and share their expertise. Mia Davis’ mum Denise Findlay came in to teach P2/1 some new skills in art.

They explored a range of materials including charcoal and chalk to create a wonderful image of a dog. Thanks very much for coming in. We hope that we can rope you in again.

Primary 3/2 and P3 have created amazing learning logs as part of their Under the Sea topic. They worked alongside their parents and were able to demonstrate their knowledge of the topic as well as their creativity.

P3/2 explored the Scots text, Geordie’s Mingin Medicine and were able to translate and develop their Scots language.

P3 continue to develop the wildlife garden and have recently made bird feeders to attract new wildlife. P3 also embarked on an enterprising topic for which they created a business called Santa Service. Santa Service organised, sorted and delivered Christmas cards within the school for the cheap price of 2p per card.

The Edina Trust project is well under way and P4 continue to upload their weather data and maintain their blog. As part of St Andrew’s Day celebrations we read extracts from the Eejits and learned the Dashing White Sergeant. Furthermore, Kenny Wilson came in to visit the whole school and taught us lots of Scottish songs. We had a braw time!

Howwood Baby and Toddlers

Abbey Nursery Welcome to 2015 and the hope of wonderful things for each and every family during the year.

Christmas was a lovely time for everyone at Abbey and the month was action packed with our Christmas Fayre starting off the festivities and a big thank you to all the parents who came along and helped us raise over £600 on the day.

Over 120 children from the Busy Bumblebees and Grasshoppers playrooms also took part in trips to the theatre and enjoyed the fantastic performances and lots of laughs at Beauty and the Beast; The Boy that Santa Forgot and the Singing Kettle.

Not to be forgotten the staff team had their own celebrations with a party night out at the Normandy Hotel and we would like to thank them for the fantastic way they have looked after the children over the year and built strong and lasting relationships with each and every family.

Recently we also had the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the children (and support by parents) in achieving our 2nd Green Flag; acknowledging Creation Station will be running fun arts and crafts sessions on Friday the hard work 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th February 2015. Places are limited so if you are carried out interested please book. The sessions are free (a small donation of £1 over the last towards running the group would be appreciated) and open to everyone, two years and and we would be delighted to welcome new children and their grown ups! showing how we Please watch this space for further information about music and dance are responsible sessions in March. citizens in For more information and to book your place, please contact caring for our howwoodtoddlers@hotmail.com or come along to our regular Monday environment. group, 10am-12noon at Howwood Parish Church Hall.

This was swiftly followed by a presentation of our very own Commonwealth Games We had lots fun for the festive season with a wonderful Plaque for all the fun and Christmas party and nativity that even had an extra special learning during our summer guest in red arriving on his sleigh at the end, wishing us a very project.

Merry Christmas.

Looking forward we are excited However, with the arrival of the New Year we have lots of new about our plans for 2015 and activities and adventures ahead. We are learning all about delighted to welcome new staff winter and winter sports so hopefully we’ll get a magical white with their own fresh ideas and winter rather than a wet winter to inspire us! We are also skills to help us keep up the planning lots of nursery visits by “People that Help Us” from high standards we are proud all walks of life which the children really enjoy and they have of at Abbey. As we have very limited places available in the plenty of questions to ask! nursery just now we will not It is also getting to that time of year to start planning for the forthcoming school year. If you have young ones who are be hosting our regular Open due to start nursery this August please get in touch to have an informal look around our nursery. We can arrange a time Day in January but welcome convenient to you to come and see the purpose built facilities, meet the teachers and children and get an insight into parents to contact us for Duchal life. places from June onwards.

If you would like to come and visit the Nursery and meet the teachers please contact Head Teacher Jean McCarthy on: Tel: 874358. Also visit our website at: www.duchal.com to keep up to date with all the latest news Thanks to a generous grant from the Big Lottery Fund - Communities 2014, Howwood Baby and Toddler group will be hosting some fabulous events in the new year. The purpose of the funding is to encourage active play for the under 5’s and we will be using it to purchase active play equipment as well organising structured active play sessions.

Duchal Nursery School

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Bridge of Weir Primary School Gryffe High School Even as the glitter and pent-up excitement was starting to burst through at the beginning of December, learning continued at the school with a focus on the workings of the human body, as part of Science Week.

You may have noticed the emergence of impromptu facts about heart valves and the intricacies of the digestive system, and we apologise if these appeared at mealtimes. All our pupils enjoyed their time with the enthusiastic visiting team from the Science Museum’s Bodyworks department, and their giant, interactive explanations.

As any theologian knows, the greatest challenge to Mary and Joseph finding somewhere to stay on that first Christmas night, was a gaggle of gap-toothed, be-teatowelled children singing about how tired the donkey was. And so it came to pass as Bridge of Weir nursery and primary children presented their much-anticipated Christmas celebration and nativity. This term’s reflections on World War 1 led naturally to a theme of a wish for peace on Earth, and this was movingly depicted in a brief tableau of the Christmas Day truce of 1914. Our school choir was in stunning voice, and was heartily swelled by pupils from all our junior and senior classes, until at one point the hall was filled with singing children, their faces lit by flickering tea-lights.

These special events, along with the ordinary and extraordinary ones throughout the year, could not happen without the hard work of pupils and staff, and the support from family and friends. We thank you all and wish you a very Happy and Peaceful New Year.

All the Fun of the PTA Christmas Fayre Sheila McHarg who is the Treasurer of the PTA said, ‘On behalf of the PTA I would like to thank the parents and pupils who supported our Annual Christmas Fayre on Thursday 27th November. Although numbers were small there was a festive atmosphere with Christmas music, candy canes, mystery gift stall and “Frozen” playing in the tearoom where Christmas pies and coffee were available. Hopefully next year, more folks will join us for some Christmas retail therapy and fun stalls.

Thanks must also go to the external vendors who provided a great variety of items ranging from fresh holly wreaths to jams, chutneys and vintage homewares.

The fantastic sum of £1280 was raised and will be greatly appreciated by the Gryffe High school staff to continue to provide the best possible educational opportunities and resources for our children.

The members of the PTA worked hard to set up, man the stalls and clear away after the event and thanks must go to all of them.

Our next event is a Pamper evening for Mums and Daughters which will be held on Friday 13th March 2015. This is the weekend of Mothers Day and therefore a perfect opportunity to come along with friends and family and either pamper yourself or treat someone special. Details will be available on the website soon and I hope to see lots of ladies of all ages on this evening.’

Depute Head Mr. Peter Holsgrove, who is the teacher representative on the PTA, added his thanks to the PTA for their tremendous efforts for this event and their work throughout the year.

He also thanked Steven Thompson for taking time out of his busy schedule as a striker for St. Mirren.

Steven happily presented the many raffle prizes to the delight of the winners.

Thanks also goes to the many varied sponsors who supplied Raffle Prizes on the night including; Henderson’s Dress Hire, The River Inn and Tranquil Salon.

All of Gryffe High S2 Enjoy a Visit to the Science Centre ‘Who Needs Science?’ is an interactive show offered by Glasgow Science Centre featuring spectacular demonstrations in biology, chemistry and physics including information on careers in Oil and Gas. It is designed to inspire pupils as they discover the role of science in their everyday lives and their future careers.

Here is what Kate had to say ‘Our trip to the Science Centre was on the 12th of November and the whole point of us going was to look at possible career choices for our future. It was a really interesting day for us as we were able to explore each of the floors as well as watch an interesting and exciting Science Show.

The Science Show was brilliant and we got to take part in the show as well as watch. Exploring each of the floors was also really good as we were able to look into how things, such as pulleys and our bodies work.’ Kate Dorrian S2

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St Columba School 1st XV win Regional Plate Congratulations to the 1st XV who won a closely contested U18 Glasgow South Regional Plate final. The match was played at Braidholm against Williamwood. The lead changed hands several times throughout but the boys did enough to hold on and win the game 24-22. They now progress in to the National quarter finals.

1st XI Win South West Cup The 1st XI won the South West Cup, convincingly beating Wellington 4-0.

The team will now represent the South West district in the Scottish Schools Cup on 3rd March 2015 at Glasgow National Hockey Centre.

Children In Need

St Fillan’s Primary School

Junior School pupils and staff had lots of fun fundraising for Children in Need and raised a fabulous £1,181.66.

Abbey Nursery performed The Nativity for their parents in our school on Wednesday 3rd December. Well done boys and girls, you were wonderful!

Entrance Exams for 2015-2016 9th & 12th January Junior School Assessments 10th January - Senior School Assessments - Transitus (J7) & any available places in Senior I-Senior VI 13th & 14th January - J1 Interviews 15th &16th January – Preparatory Assessments Please see the School website for full details. www.st-columbas.org

GVRC Canadian Curling Choir A group of Rotarian curlers from Canada recently toured Scotland to play a series of curling matches. Gryffe Valley was delighted to welcome the group to one of its meetings, and indeed some members hosted visitors at home and joined in matches.

The photo shows the visitors regaling the company with song - operatic it was not (they are curlers after all!) but their witty verses contributed to a hugely enjoyable social evening. Just an illustration that, wherever you travel in the world, you will not be far from a Rotary club which will be delighted to welcome you and provide you with support if required.

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Throughout January, children from local nurseries will visit our school to participate in Art based activities with Mrs McKay. We look forward to seeing you all soon.

Children who are due to begin primary school in August 2015 should be enrolled in their catchment primary school in January 2015.

P1 registration for surname A-L will take place on Wednesday 14th January in St Fillan’s Primary school from 1 – 3pm.

P1 registration for surname M-Z will take place on Thursday 15th January in St Fillan’s Primary school from 1 – 3pm.

Sean Boland, one of our Primary 7 pupils was involved in the Panto at PACE. Some of our pupils were lucky enough to see him perform live on Thursday 11th December. Skye Conway, another of our Primary 7 pupils was involved in the Panto in Kilmacolm. Although we did not attend a performance as a school, we know that Skye performed very well. Well done to you both!

Mrs Cleary and her singing group worked hard to prepare for their performance in the Paisley Centre on Wednesday 10th December. All children sang beautifully and were wonderful ambassadors for our school.

Thank you Mrs Cleary and the Singing Group.

The Parent Council held their annual Christmas Fayre in the school on Friday 5th December. This was a fun family event and we would like to extend our thanks to parents and staff who worked hard to prepare and run the event and also to those who came along on the evening.

Some of our Singing Group entertained the community of Brookfield on Sunday 14th December with a medley of festive songs.

GVRC WOW Update WOW! (Wheelchairs on Water) is Gryffe Valley Rotary’s ambitious project to procure a special roll on – roll off boat at Castle Semple Loch to enable those who are wheelchair-bound to get out onto the water. The great news is that, thanks to 10K run participants, generous donations from a number of local businesses, and contributions from a few charitable trusts, the total costs of over £26K have now been fully raised and production can start.

Look out for further news early in the New Year when the project is launched with our partners at Muirshiel Country Park.

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Castle Semple Sailing Club Round up of the year - Commodore’s report in brief

The official season for Castle Semple Sailing Club finished at the end of October, followed by the end of season work party early in November for which the weather thankfully stayed dry. An early start and some keen workers meant a lot of hungry people by lunchtime ready to consume some hearty fare - Commodore Arthur’s soup was consumed with gusto! After lunch we had the prize giving and with the work finished in sufficient time some sailing took place in the afternoon.

At the end of November the Club’s AGM was held and Commodore reported on another very successful year for the club and everyone could be justifiably happy with everything which had been done.

Socially, we had our Christmas walk followed by soup and mulled wine, regular badminton at Johnstone sports hub, ten pin bowling, barbeques and the ceilidh. The Operations Manual and Sailing Instructions had been updated, membership is slightly up, 2 secondhand engines have been purchased, meetings and training days had been held with RYA Scotland, lots of SSAP meetings had been held, lots of chain had been gifted by Loch Lomond Sailing Club, Duncan has obtained brand new gear for lasers and toppers, Tom built a new notice board at the fence, press releases have been frequent, the website and social media are well established, the field fair in April held jointly with other SSAP clubs turned into a very windy event but still managed to raise over £1,200, and separately the club supported Lochwinnoch Gala Day. On the sailing front it was a year of firsts- our first ladies helm event, first topper team racing day, first trip to the Nith Raid, first 10 hr race (which turned in to only 8 hours due to the appalling weather), first Bart’s Bash (with 28 boats taking part) and the first year of the O’Neill Trophy, with many thanks to O’Neills of Paisley for sponsoring the trophy.

REGULAR

meets

every Monday

Kilbarchan Athletic Club On-X, Linwood, 7pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

5-a-side Football

Powerleague Paisley 6pm Te l : J i m B r e t h e r to n 015 0 5 874 215 ; o r jimbretherton@aol.com

Br 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 School, Linwood, 7pm - 8pm & 8pm - 9pm.

Check out our website at www.linwoodkarate. co.uk

every Tuesday Bridge of Weir Walking Group Outside the Co-op, BoW 10.30am

1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000.

Gryffe Badminton

On top of all that we had our usually winter series, 3 trophy events with many thanks to our sponsors Cuccina Munucci and Ian Brown Motors and the Commodore’s Trophy, the GP and National 12 weekend, the Loch Lomond weekend, training for the GP Worlds, work parties and prize giving. We expanded our series to 6 and the results were split into Gold and Silver fleets.

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

The GP14 and National 12 weekend in October was a success and we have been asked to host the GP14 2015 Scottish Championships. We last hosted it in 1994 so it will return 21 years later, the year before our 50th anniversary in 2016 for which Jan Tytler is busy working on a short history of the Club.

Callanetics

every Wednesday Greenock Hockey Club

Inverclyde Academy School, Greenock, 6.30pm-8pm.

Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005

Brookfield Village Hall, 5.15pm, 6.15pm & 7.30pm

every Thursday Kilbarchan Athletic Club

Many members contribute to the club in many ways often unasked, Ray Wright has been quietly fixing doors, and generally working on the premises, people have been cutting grass, maintaining boats and engines, Graeme Hall regularly keeps the website up to date and interesting for us. Two people in particular, Jan Gordon being the race officer and Marion Wright had shown great commitment to the Club and they were presented with flowers as a thank you at the AGM.

For more info see website : www.castlesemplesc.co.uk

On-X, Linwood, 7pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Kilmacolm Walkers

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

Callanetics

New Opening Hours at Birkmyre Park Fitness Gym Bring in the New Year with New Opening Hours at Birkmyre Park Fitness Gym MON 6am-10pm

TUE 7am-10pm

WED 6am-10pm

THU 7am-10pm

FRI 6am-9pm

SAT & SUN 8am-5pm

Call 01475 715750 for more information.

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Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands Primary School, Linwood, 7pm - 8pm & 8pm - 9pm.

Check out our website at www.linwoodkarate. co.uk

every Friday Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

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Cycling code of conduct on shared-use paths Shared-use paths are a great way to get around by bike, but they’re also used by many other people. It’s important to follow a few basic rules so that everyone can enjoy them as much as possible.

A code of conduct for cyclists Cyclists tend to be the fastest movers on these paths, but the paths aren’t suitable for high speeds so it’s important to keep cycling speed under control.

Remember that they are for sharing, not for speeding. If you wish to travel quickly, train for fitness or record personal best times, this is better done on quiet roads.

R

ts

Following this code of conduct will ensure that everyone can benefit from shared paths:

Strathgryffe Juniors are Best in the West!

Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash & Fitness Club has had a very successful summer season and picked up six Division 1 awards at the Tennis West presentation evening which was held at David Lloyd Renfrew on Monday 24th November. The winning teams were Mixed 8 & u, Girls 12 & u, Boys 14 & u, Boys 16 & u, Girls 16 & u and also the Mixed 18 & u Clydesdale Cup.

Susan Weanie, Tennis Manager commented; “We have an excellent team of coaches organised by our Head Coach, Derek Brown who

are delivering fun quality sessions from grassroots to performance level. We are a non profit making organisation and have fantastic support from our parents who organise and transport the players to all the different venues”.

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Take care around horseriders, leaving them plenty of room, especially when approaching from behind; Be courteous and patient with pedestrians and other path users who are moving more slowly than you – shared paths are for sharing, not speeding; Carry a bell and use it, or an audible greeting, to avoid surprising people or horses; However, don’t assume people can see or hear you – remember that many people are hard of hearing or visually impaired; In dull and dark weather make sure you have lights so you can be seen.

Tips for other path users: Please keep your dog under control; Please remember to pick up your dog’s poo (and dispose of properly); Please kick your horse poo to the side onto the verge.

Sporting Blog

by Lesley Handley

We are heading into 2015 and no doubt every paper/magazine/TV advert you will see is all about promoting New Year Resolutions, fitness and health… It always happens… The start of a New Year prompts a surge of health kicks, diets, less alcohol, joining a gym, etc. I even done it; this time last year I wrote about SMART goals, saying ‘I will’ instead of ‘I’ll try’ and promoting the New Year. Did it help you? Maybe it did, but, I would hazard a guess that 80% of you that set a goal didn’t achieve it.

Ask yourself what you wanted to achieve in 2014, and then ask yourself how close you were to achieving it? Now make a list of why it didn’t happen. Was it lack of time? Lack of commitment? Lack of money? Change of circumstances?

Truth be told, I failed to achieve what I wanted in 2014. I wanted to regain the level of fitness I used to have 2 years ago before my son was born. Like a lot of people I had let my fitness slip, I had other things that needed to be done that got prioritised over exercise, I also found excuses for not going out for that run!

(Maybe as a Personal Trainer this isn’t something I should be admitting to… but it’s the truth! It happens to us all!)

The new spring tennis coaching programme for 2015 now includes a variety of Adult Cardio sessions which is a tennis workout to music. There are

also Miss Hits sessions which are for girls aged 5 to 8 years of age. For more information on tennis, squash or fitness sessions please visit our website www.strathgryffe.net or email info@strathgryffe.net

Give way to pedestrians and wheelchair users;

So, I am giving myself 3 months to kick myself into gear and achieve what I wanted in 2014. I’m going to start training again, start eating good ‘real’ food at least 80% of the time, and achieve the body/shape/fitness I want. Not because it is a New Year, but because that’s what I want to do! And I’m going to make sure I have the time, commitment and focus to do it.

And I want you to do it with me!

Give me 2 hours of your time for 12 weeks, as much commitment and passion for your goal that you can, and I assure you that you will be well on your way to your health/fitness goal!

It is said that you have to do something 21 times for it to become a habit… lets’ see if that’s true…

2 hours… 12 weeks… are you up for the challenge? It could change your life…

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Lesley For more information contact me on 07512 355 877 or at Lesley_personal_ trainer@hotmail.co.uk

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TRADES & SERVICES Black & White ads only Lineage: up to 20 words £12.00* Boxed ad: £6.60* per column cm PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES CARS FOR SALE Lineage: up to 20 words £12.00* Boxed ad: £6.60* per column cm Photo: add £6.00* (colour) *all prices subject to VAT

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

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Houston registered childminders.

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

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ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY £15.84 PER MONTH (incl. VAT)

HOLIDAY HOMES FLORIDA: superb selection of hand-picked villas and condos near Disney and Gulf Coast. Rates from £250 per wk - also property purchase service with rental support. Call Hazel on 01505 613603. www.floridaselectvillas.com

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community halls to let

• Bridge of Weir, Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 • Brookfield, Village Hall. Tel: 320497 • 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: 873488 • 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

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NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

community council

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm www. bishoptoncouncil.com BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 1st Tues at 7pm (June, September and October (AGM) www. bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm in February, April, June, August, October and December on the 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: Parish Church: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

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churches BRIDGE OF WEIR

Freeland Church: Rev KN Gray BA BD. Morning Service 10.30am. Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and Cornerstone.

Eveing Service 7pm www. freeland.org.uk St Mary’s Church Scottish Episcopal Church: Delighting to praise God; Showing Christ’s love; Growing in faith. Services Sundays at 10am. We have a regular cycle of prayer for those who live and work in Bridge of Weir. For information, to ask for special prayers, or in pastoral emergency call the Rector on 01475-705378.

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church: Rev Suzanne Dunleavy BD DipEd. Sunday services 10.30am. Hearing a i d l o o p s y s t e m . w w w. stmacharsranfurlychurch.org. uk All welcome.

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

From the Baha’i writings: “Be an answerer of the cry of the needy” For details of meetings call 615641.

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.

HOUSTON

Houston Baptist Church at C a r r i c k C e n t r e : 11 a m Family services with SS for children age 5-12; 6pm Eve Service; Mid-week Home Bible Study; For more information contact; Rev D Snelson 01505 612722.

Houston and Killellan Kirk: www.houstonkirk.org. 4th Jan. 11am First Service of the New Year; 11th Jan. 11am Morning Worship; 18th Jan. 11am Morning Worship; 25th Jan. 9.45am Early Service; 11am Morning Worship; 1st Feb. 9.45am Early Service: The Sacrament of Holy Communion. 11am Morning Worship

Church of the Nazarene: Village Hall, Main St, Houston. PA6 7EL. Rev Benito S Coetzee.

Family services at 10.30am with full toddler, children and youth activities running concurrently with the service.

Youth meets at 6.30pm-8pm on Sundays. Word and Table Quiet Service held from 9am9.30am every 3rd Sunday. www.houston.nazarene.org. uk St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: Tues-Sat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm. Reconciliation: Sat 10-10.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.30-8pm.

Exposition: As announced.

Baptisms: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month by arrangement.

Parish Priest: Rev Daniel J McLoughlin, Dip.Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). “Abbotsfield”, St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T: 01505 612046, F: 01505 610556. E: parish@ stfillan.org.uk. www.stfillan. org.uk

HOWWOOD

Howwood Parish Churc h: Sunday Service will start at 10am and there will be a prayer meeting at 3 Bowfield Way on Fridays at 7.30pm.

KILBARCHAN

Services at 11am and in the East and West Churches as intimated in the Kilbarchan Column. All services conducted by the Rev Stephen Smith. Creche, Junior church and FEWsion/Bible Class meet at 10.45am. Midweek Fellowship in the West Church Session House on Wed’s at 10.30am.

january 2015

St Columba Church of Scotland: ( c h a r i t y n o S C 0 07 9 9 2 ) Minister Rev Douglas Cranston. Morning Worship Sundays at 11am. Wednesday break 10.30am. Thursday Bible Study 7.30pm – 8.30pm.

Thursday Prayer Meeting 8.40pm – 9.15pm.

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

St Fillan’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church: All welcome to our church in Moss Road.

LANGBANK

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

Tea/coffee after the service.

Church service starts at 10am.

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

LOCHWINNOCH

Parish Church: Rev May Bell.

11.30am Morning Service with Sunday School and Crèche.

Calder United Free Church: (Church St Lochwinnoch) Sunday: 11am Morning worship with Sunday School and Crèche. 6.30pm Evening Fellowship group, 7.30pm A B C ’ s Te e n g ro u p . We d 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Spiritualist Church,Lochlip Rd: All services commence 7.30pm.

QUARRIERS

Mount Zion Church: Law View Road, Quarriers Village. Rev Andy Lunn BSc, 10.30am with Junior Church and Bible Class.

Wednesdays prayer and bible study at 7pm. Fridays prayer and bible study at 10am.

KILMACOLM

St Colm’s Catholic Church, Smithy Brae Kilmacolm.

The Very Rev William Canon McDade – Sunday morning family mass at 10am with children’s liturgy. Teas and coffee after mass. Rosary Tuesday evenings at 6.30pm.

Prayer group at 7.30pm on Thursdays. Mass on holy days at 7.30pm.

Kilmacolm Old Kirk: Church of Scotland (Charity no. SC009291).www. kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk.

Minister Rev Dr Peter McEnhill (01505 873174). Morning Worship - Sundays 11am, all welcome Sunday School & Crèche available.

councillors

RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Ward 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie & Howwood Cllrs John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and Iain McMillan Ward 8 - Johnstone (North), Kilbarchan & Lochwinnoch Councillors Derek Bibby, Andy Doig and Christopher Gilmour Ward 9 - Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield & Linwood Councillors Stuart Clark, Audrey Doig, Anne Hall and Allan Noon Ward 10 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank Councillors Maria Brown, Mike Holmes and James Maclaren

follow The Advertizer on twitter and facebook for regular updates t: @GryffeAds f: www.facebook. com/GryffeAds

49 49

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 reinsert 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.

INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (P.Glasgow, Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village) Cllrs David Wilson, Jim MacLeod, Stephen McCabe and James McColgan

27/12/2014 12:18:26

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the advertizer

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

DEADLINES

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

Items For Sale Baby Equipment Next Nursery set - mobile, cot bumper and curtains. £15. Tel: 07788 826480.

Emmaljunga Pram/Pushchair, only 1 year old. Ex cond.

Comes with Cosytoes, changing bag and Emmaljunga car seat. £200 ono. Tel: 07940 127136.

Baby Weavers Adventure 3 way baby carrier. Suitable from birth. VGC. Smoke and pet free home. £8 Tel: 01505 702135.

Chicco 3D Baby Park (play mat).

3m+. In original carry case.

Excellent, clean condition. Pet and smoke free home. £10 Tel: 01505 702135.

Tixylix baby monitor. Never used, perfect condition. £5. Pet and smoke free home. Tel: 01505 702135.

Clothes & Shoes Labelled high quality clothing size 14/16. Offers to charity.

Tel: 01505 506385.

Size 14 black/white silk/velvet beautiful ball gown. £40 ono.

Tel: 01505 506385.

Household & Garden Bespoke sofa suite, three seater, two seater, winged chair plus two matching storage footstools. Less than six months old beautiful suite, black and gold in colour a mix of three different fabrics in same colours. £1000 ono. First to view will buy. Immaculate condition as hardly used, currently in sitting room. Please call Lorraine on 07748 148287.

Mirrored fitted wardrobes. All offers considered. 8’ high x 7’ wide. Tel: 07940 127136.

Next Little Digger Bedroom set for boys. 2 pairs of curtains, quilt cover and rug. £35. Tel: 07788 826480.

Dark wood, extending dining table with 6 matching chairs with fabric cushioned seats.

Can deliver locally. £90. Tel: 01505 610024.

Dark wood sideboard. Can deliver locally. £40. Tel: 01505 610024.

Tall, dark wood display cabinet with glass doors and illumination. Can deliver locally. £40.

Tel: 01505 610024.

Dark wood display cabinet base.

Can deliver locally. £10. Tel: 01505 610024.

2 Seater bed settee. £75. Tel: 01505 506385.

2 internal doors. Offers to charity.

Tel: 01505 506385.

4 pink silk cushions from Laura Ashley. Offers. Tel: 01505 506385.

Electrical & Gas Tricity Bendix slip in electric cooker SE335. 50cm wide.

Colour black. Oven and grill, 4 ring ceramic hob. Good condition. £80 ono. Buyer collects.

Tel: 01505 706652.

Spare parts for a Hotpoint Aquarius washing machine including Drum, Paddles, front door and side panels. All priced to sell quickly. Tel: 01505 613770.

Samsung 1800 watt vacuum cleaner SU33 series. Excellent codition. £30 ono. Tel: 07900 477277.

Sports 6ft x 3ft snooker table in very good order plus set of snooker balls. £50. Tel: 01505 690212.

Claude Butler Bike, Silver, good condition. £45. Call: 07960 824285.

Childs bike Optima Stealth, purple, good condition £35. Tel: 07960 824285 Head Ladies ski boots, Silver, rarely used size 24-24.5 (adult size 5), VGC £45. Rossignol Childs Ski Boots, slightly used size 25-25.5 (adult size 5-6) £15. Tel: 07960 824285.

Ice Skating boots, size 5. Offers to charity. Tel: 01505 506385.

Other Items 205 55r 16 winter tyres x4. Good condition. £60 for the lot. Must uplift. Tel: 01505 690819.

Volvo towbar to suit V50 or equivalent. £50. Tel: 01505 690819.

PS3 plus controller with assorted games COD, GTA5,FIFA13,MW3. Boxed.

Excellent condition - £120. Tel: 01505 690819.

Vauxhall Meriva 2008 roof rack - Halfords. £25. 07788 826480.

Professionally reconditioned Belfast sink - never used £50.

Tel: 07960 824285.

4 Bales of Liberty Fabric. Offers.

Tel: 01505 506385.

Toshiba laptop computer. New condition, 2yrs old. Cost £300, accept £100. Tel: 01505 862609 after 5pm.

Wanted Items

Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710 777571.

Cash paid for Music CDs ( a few or a lot ). Tel: 0141 882 5594 or 07765 115347.

Yamaha DT 175 MX & DT 125 MX. Yamaha RD 250, 350 & 500 - running or not. Cash waiting. Free collection. Tel: 07951 227767.

Cash paid for Copy of book Castles and mansions of Renfrewshire and Buteshire by AH Millar. Tel 01505 331094.

ADVERTISING sales & wants ad rates:

UP TO £200 ....... FREE £201 to £500 ..... £5.00 £501 to £1000 ... £10.00 OVER £1000 ..... Call for details.

Use our Sales & Wants form below and post to The Gryffe Advertizer, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN. or email your items to info@advertizer.co.uk The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

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or call the office: 01505 613340 (24hr ans)

FRI 16th Jan

FEBRUARY ‘14 ISSUE: • Deadline: 16th Jan • Delivery: 30th Jan • MARCH ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th Feb • Delivery: 27th Feb

Final Graced by a Distinguished Bench of Judges The Grand Final of the 2014 Annual Schools Youth Speech Competition organised by Renfrew Speakers Club recently took place in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew.

The panel of judges was made up of the Chief Judge Graham McLachlan, Immediate ASC Past President, the current ASC President Margaret Robertson and Jeneffer Zielinski ASC Argyll & Clyde Area President.

Six teams representing schools from Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Areas schools took part, they being the winners and runners up from 21 school teams who had taken part in the earlier ‘knock out’ competitions.

The students were given the choice of speaking on one of the following subjects: With developments such as GPS, security cameras and mobile devices, it is often said that we live in a ‘surveillance society’. Is modern technology becoming too invasive in our lives?

In an age of austerity at home, does the £11.5bn the UK is presently spending on overseas aid represent value for money?

The UK used to pride itself in having an unarmed police force, but nowadays it seems that more and more police officer are carrying arms. Is routine arming of police an inevitable consequence of the threats face in modern society?

The winning team was Gryffe High School from Renfrewshire and they are shown in the photograph proudly holding the John Richardson Trophy, accompanied our National President Margaret Robertson and by their teacher Jennifer Higgins.

The runners up were St Columba’s team No 1 from Inverclyde and they are shown in the photograph with their teachers Anne Friel and Anne Devlin.

As a permanent memento of winning the John Richardson Trophy last year St Stephen’s High School, Port Glasgow, were awarded an engraved glass roundel trophy to add to their many Speech Competition Awards they have won over the years.

The Chief Judge Graham McLachlan commented on the quality of the speeches, gave constructive evaluations as well as overall advice to the teams on how to improve their public speaking abilities.

The Chairman for the Final, Hunter Wilson of Renfrew Speakers Club, said that the standard of public speaking continued to climb and the teams were a credit to their teachers, parents and schools.

These schools speech competitions whilst contributing to the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence aims which are to enable a young person to be a successful learner, a confident individual; a responsible citizen and an effective contributor are completely in line with the Association of Speakers Clubs motto ‘Achieve Speaking Confidence’.

Bill Robertson, Renfrew Speakers Club Secretary

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www.advertizer.co.uk

january 2015

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Advertizers - A to Z

by category Accountants & Financial

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

Architectural Services

Architectural Drawings . . . . . 20 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 14 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers

Driving Instructors

Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 15 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5

Education

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 45

Electricians

Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Delta Electrical Services . . 29 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 15 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 9

Entertainment

Auctioneers & Valuers

Fencing

Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 9

Automotive Services

AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 22

Bathrooms

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AT&B Tiling & Bathrooms . . . . 35 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6

Bedrooms

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5

Blacksmith & Metalwork

Iron House Stoves Limited . . 3 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 3

Building Services

A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 7 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 16 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 5 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43

Business Services

Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20

Care Services & Homes

Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 2 Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Cleaning & PowerWash

CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 12 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Inverclyde Council . . . . . . . . . 32 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 3

Firewood & Logs

Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 14 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Framing

Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 15

Funeral Services

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 6 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 7 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 9

Garage Doors & Gates

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK

Garden Service & Design

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 36 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 36 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 37 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 37 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 37 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 West of Scotland Landscape . . 38

Gas & Heating Services

A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 16 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 9 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 34 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 14 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier

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

Hairdressers & Barbers

Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 27

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 34 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32

Computer, IT & Web

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Coffee Shops

ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20

Driveways

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

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 46 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 46 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 6

48-51 CLASSIFIED_244_JAN15.ind.indd 51

Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 33 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 32 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32

Home Hardware

First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 18,19 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4

Home Improvements

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 8 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 29 Prestige Windows . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Home Interiors

Plumbers

A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 16 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 9 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 34 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Property, Sales & Let

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . 23,24,25 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 21 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 12 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35

Removals

Home Security

Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 27

Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 26

Joiners

CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 16 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 15

Kitchens

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 5

@ease Removals & Transport . . 4 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Restaurant & Bars Retail

Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 27 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 18,19 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35

Roofing

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 35 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 7 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 16 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43

Solicitors

Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 21 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

Special Occasions

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Leisure & Recreation

Taxis & Minicoach hire

Locksmiths

Tiling

Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 47 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Painters & Decorators

Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 9 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 29 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Pet Services & Training

Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Kilmacolm Dog Training Classes . . 40 Pet Portraits for Animal Lover . . 41 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 40

Plasterers

Alan Donaghue Plasterer . . . . 15 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 35 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 32 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 20 AT&B Tiling & Bathrooms . . . . 35 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Travel Agents

Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3

Tree Surgeon

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,37 Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 37 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37

TV & Satellite

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

Window Cleaners

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15

Window, Consv & Repair

1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 MF PVC Windows and Doors . . . 2 Prestige Windows . . . . . . . . . . Bk TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

@ease Removals & Transport . . 4 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 36 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 36 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 16 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affluent Financial Planning . . 20 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Alan Donaghue Plasterer . . . . 15 Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 27 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 15 Architectural Drawings . . . . . 20 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 AT&B Tiling & Bathrooms . . . . 35 Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 46 Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 27 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 14 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 26 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 35 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 14 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 32 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 7 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 9 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 46 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 9 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 2 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . 23,24,25 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 15 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 37 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 21 Delta Electrical Services . . 29 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 5 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 37 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 6 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 20 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 16 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 37 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 18,19 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 22 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 9 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 8 Inverclyde Council . . . . . . . . . 32 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 3 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 34 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 29 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 14 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 7 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 20 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 34 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 33 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 Kilmacolm Dog Training Classes . . 40 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,37 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 7 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 3 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 9 MF PVC Windows and Doors . . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 32 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 12 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 29 Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Pet Portraits for Animal Lover . . 41 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK Prestige Windows . . . . . . . . . . Bk Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 37 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 37 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 40 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 16 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 45 Stewart Independent Financial . . 21 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 47 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43 Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 West of Scotland Landscape . . 38 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 15

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January 2015 No.244

Distribu

• Bishop • Bridge • Brookfi • Eldersl • Housto • Howwo • Kilbarc • Kilmac • Langb • Lochw • Quarri

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