245 February 2015 - Gryffe Advertizer

February 2015

FRE 1 CO E PY

No.245 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

ADVERTIZER

Dumbarton Rock & Ben Lomond from West Ferry by Duncan McEwan from PCPC

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your LOCAL community magazine February 2015 No.245

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EXCITING NEW PRODUCT Nutech are proud to launch Silicone Roof Coatings into the UK. The latest development from Nutech Paints combines up to the minute technology with a long established roof coating system.

Nutech NXT Silicone Roof Coatings contains the latest Hybrid Polymer technology for ultimate roof waterproofing performance on troublesome flat roofs such as extensions, dormers, garages and more. NXT Silicone is a breathable membrane possessing superior weathering and water resistance characteristics and comes with a 20 year guarantee.

NEW!

NEW!

Please contact us for more information or friendly free advice.

www.siliconeroofcoatings.com

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Blood Donor Sessions

St Mirin’s Cathedral Parish Hall, Incle Street, Paisley PA1 1HR Tuesday 3rd February 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm Kirklandneuk Community Centre, Ness Road, Renfrew PA4 9DE Thursday 19th February 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 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.

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This

Month

Oh, we do love a happy ending at The Advertizer!

In January, Olly the cocker spaniel did a runner while out on his walk. He was last seen heading from Bridge of Weir towards the moorlands in the direction of Muirshiel. Despite a HUGE hunt, Olly wasn’t found. Three days followed, with some of the worst winter weather of the year. Then, a local farmer picked up a bedraggled pup and recognised him as Olly, thanks to the ongoing local facebook campaign. So Olly was reunited with his frantic owner resulting in big smiles all round!

Local TV stars! It was a joy to watch the Reith sisters who run Three Sisters Bake in Quarriers and now also in Killearn, when they appeared on This Morning last month to chat about working together, running their cafes and what makes them happy.

Listening to Gillian, Nichola and Linsey together, you just know they love what they do!

On the roads, ongoing repairs are underway at the bridge in Quarriers Village which will last for some weeks and further road surface repairs are planned for the A761 section between Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm; let’s hope not at the same time!

You can keep up to date with proposed roadworks by visiting the website www.roadworksscotland.org or via our two local council websites, www. renfrewshire.gov.uk and www.inverclyde.gov.uk. Another site you can register with for regular updates for your area is www.tellmescotland.gov.uk/notices/ renfrewshire/traffic.

We’ll try to keep you updated too on Facebook and Twitter - please follow our new facebook page, Gryffe Roadwatch, for regular updates on road repairs and conditions.

The Advertizer is the ideal platform to tell the community your news as we reach over 13,000 homes and businesses in the Gryffe area.

Send in your news and photos to: info@advertizer.co.uk The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN Next deadline Friday 13 February!

Advertizer ’ Rona & ‘Team

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.............................25 church listings.......................49 local history..........................21

local news..........................8-13 pets.................................40-41 pet blog ................................40 outdoors..........................36-39 schools news.....................42-45 sports & clubs news.............46-47 sporting blog..........................46 village news.......................26-35 what’s on..........................14-17

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.246 March 2015 Fri 13 February 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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Gremlins deny St Columba’s!

Unfortunately in our January edition covering the Grand Final of the Schools Youth Speech Competition between schools in Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire and Renfrewshire the photograph of the runners up St Columba’s team No 1 from Inverclyde went missing.

They are now shown in the photograph with their Chairperson Anna Dunsmuir, Main Speaker Andrew MacDonald, Voter of Thanks Arianna Moretti, teachers Anne Friel and Anne Devlin.

Bill Robertson, Renfrew Speakers Club Secretary

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Travel Blog

by Maureen Horton of Travel a la Carte

Escape with Someone Special this February Valentines Day falls on a Saturday this year giving the opportunity for not just a romantic dinner for 2, but a whole weekend or longer somewhere special with the special person on your life.

There is plenty of choice starting on our doorstep with a stay in a Scottish hotel a short drive from home e.g., Turnberry in Ayrshire, Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, Prestonfield house in Edinburgh or Airds Inn in picturesque Port Appin.

Or you could choose to take a short flight to a choice of European cities e.g., Prague, Amsterdam, Milan, Dublin or Paris or a longer flight to the fascinating city of Istanbul direct with Turkish airlines from Edinburgh.

February is the peak month for skiers and there is still plenty of availability for a last minute getaway to a mountain resort. The snow has been a bit late in arriving this year, but is now falling thick and fast in most alpine locations.

However, aiming high is still advised for best conditions.

After enjoying a day on the slopes, snuggle up in front of a roaring log fire with a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate and enjoy the after glow from all that wonderful alpine fresh air.

If it is sun and heat you after, then the Canaries is still the perennial favourite, the islands being the closest destination for some winter sunshine.

Further afield and an easy direct 7 hour flight from Glasgow is the buzzing cosmopolitan city of Dubai. There are 2 flights a day with award winning Emirates airlines at a starting price of £399 per person and a large range of glamorous hotels to choose from all with startlingly good service.

So if you would like help organising an escape with someone special this February...........we can help!

Linwood Library

OPEN: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday - 9am - 5pm, Tuesday & Thursday - 9am - 8pm We also have a computer suite for public use. At present we have 8PC’s for adults, 2PC’s for children and 2 Ipads in the Youth area of the library.

Contact details of Renfrewshire Libraries can be found at: www.renfrewshirelibraries.co.uk or phone 0300 300 1188.

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Dental Blog

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

Are you the sensitive type?

You will have seen the toothpaste adverts highlighting the issue of sensitive teeth which is a common problem.

It is often experienced when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic and is the result of the thinning of enamel over time or receding gums - both of which can expose a layer of dentin that surrounds the nerve.

Without the full protective benefits of enamel, pores in the dentin can become exposed and stimulated by temperature changes or certain foods.

volunteers needed!

Do you have parenting experience and 2-3 hours per week to spare to support families in Renfrewshire?

New training course starting mid February, just 2 mornings per week for 5 weeks!

Please get in touch to have an informal chat with one of our friendly staff about volunteering with us. We would love to hear from you! Call us on 0141 889 5272 or email: theteam@ home-start-renfrewshire.org. uk www.home-start-renfrewshire. org.uk Like us on Facebook Home-Start Renfrewshire

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Bad dental hygiene is one of the main causes as it can lead to receding gums, gum disease and loss of enamel. As well as brushing incorrectly, excessive brushing and the use of an over-abrasive toothpaste can contribute. Acidic drinks such as pop or even healthy fruit juices can also attack the enamel and tooth grinding and chipped teeth may expose the dentin.

The first step to rectifying the problem is to consult with a dental professional to establish the cause and agree the best solution. A good brushing technique and using proper equipment should be things you do as a matter of course but, if not, these will help – use a suitable toothbrush which should be changed at least every 3 months and a toothpaste specially formulated to help reduce sensitivity. Avoid too many acidic drinks and try and remember to consume them with a meal and leave an hour before brushing as the enamel remains soft for this time.

If your dentist feels additional treatment is needed they can apply a fluoride varnish to the area, prescribe a high fluoride toothpaste or replace lost enamel with dental restoration.

If you have any queries regarding your 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 oral health regimes.

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The Johnstone Club - Poppy Appeal Record Sum collected for the Scottish Poppy Appeal in Johnstone & Kilbarchan.

The 2014 Scottish Poppy Appeal collection in Johnstone and Kilbarchan raised a record £8,100.27, which will be used to provide vital support to members of Scotland’s Armed Forces community.

The annual November campaign in the area is organised

by Jim Sharp and a few friends from the former Rotary Club of Johnstone.

In 2014 we extended our collection area to include Kilbarchan, after the village’s previous local Scottish Poppy Appeal volunteer retired.

The Johnstone Club members would like to thank everyone in the community who donated and made the campaign such a success.

Robert McRae, Poppyscotland’s Scottish Poppy Appeal Organiser for the West of Scotland, added: “2014 was an important year as we marked the centenary of the First World War. The reality is that 100 years on we need to support those who are affected by consequence of conflict today and I am very grateful to Jim and his team for their hard work and, of course, the people of Johnstone and Kilbarchan who generously donated to the Scottish Poppy Appeal.”

Poppyscotland uses money raised during the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal and year-round fundraising activity to provide year-round support to those who have served, those still serving and their families. This ranges from tailored funding and assistance to services in advice, employment, housing, mental health, mobility and respite.

Recipe Feature Red Cabbage and Pomegranate Coleslaw Good food is vital to anyone being treated for an illness, recovering from health problems or caring for a loved one. That’s why nutrition workshops are an important part of the programme of practical, emotional and social support that Maggie’s Glasgow, in the grounds of Gartnavel Hospital, offers to people with cancer and their family and friends, giving Centre visitors the chance to try dishes that have been designed to taste fantastic while also bursting with vital nutrients.

Of course, food that tastes good and does you good is great news for all of us. This crisp, fruity coleslaw is number one in a series of seasonal recipes coming to you from Maggie’s and the Gryffe Advertizer so you can try out some goodness-packed treats.

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Kilbarchan Beekeepers January and February are the least ‘handson’ for time in the hive and for the beekeeper and most time is spent on planning for the year ahead, cleaning, maintaining and replenishing equipment. The honeybee does not hibernate, the colony is reduced to minimal numbers that are able to keep the small cluster of bees warm, and weather permitting they will still venture out of the hive for water and to do other essential ‘business’. It can be an anxious time for the Beekeeper, waiting to see if the colony has survived the dark cold winter months and resisting the temptation to take a peek, as this can lower the hives sorely maintained temperature to a dangerous level.

The first sign of Spring however is the snowdrop and

this and the Crocus are the first natural source of food for the honeybee since the Ivy and Mahonia finished flowering late last year.

Interested?

KBA meet during the winter months in the Steeple hall at 19.30. If you are interested in beekeeping you will be more than welcome to join us.

The remaining Winter Programme is as follows: 10 Feb - The Role of the Bee Disease Inspector and Bee Disease Update 10 March - Integrated Pest Management and Queen Rearing

Method: Put all of the dressing ingredient s into a blender and blitz till well mixed.

Next, put all the salad ingredient s into a bowl except the nuts.

Pour over sufficient dressing to coat the ingredients and mix well. Leave to infuse for an hour so the flavours can mingle, then add the nuts and serve .

Any leftover salad dressing will a screw top jar for up to a weekkeep in in the fridge, and makes a delicious marin ade for fish.

If you are interested in beekeeping for yourself or the whole family, anyone is welcome. Contact Ian Craig, the KBA Secretary on 01505 322684 or via e-mail beekeeper30@btinternet.com if you would like to know more!

Full of vitamins C and A, magnesium and lots of other essential phytochemicals, this colourful salad looks and tastes sensational: just the thing to brighten up a dark February day.

Maggie’s Centres, which are supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, are based in the grounds of NHS cancer treatment centres throughout the UK and offer a programme of support to people with cancer, their family and friends, which includes benefits advice and relaxation classes as well as nutrition advice. For more information about Maggie’s Glasgow visit: www.maggiescentres.org/ our-centres/maggies-glasgow

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk An award was made for the Best Portrait in the competition and this went to Zul Bhatia for his image “Rameet”. The award for the Best Still Life was made to Andy Kerr for his image “Determined Reader”.

In the main trophy, third place went to David Dalziel for his set including “Ray Ban” and “Arc Lights”. In second place was Mike Cruise for his set including “Out in Front” and “Bottlenosed Dolphins”.

For his beautiful portrait “Isla”, his outstanding sporting image “Forehand Return” and his stunning and unusual landscape image “Pinnacles of Ice” long standing club member Duncan McEwan was judged to be the winner of the 50th competition for the Borbasket Memorial Trophy. Duncan’s image “Pinnacles of Ice” was judged as the Best Overall image in the competition.

PCPC - Borbasket Trophy 2014/15 Recently at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew, Paisley Colour Photographic Club’s 50th annual competition for the Borbasket Memorial Trophy was held.

For this competition entry consisted of three images judged as a set with the first image in each set either a table-top, a portrait or a still life photograph.

Judging the competition were the last year’s winner of the trophy, Charles Hamilton and the winner of last season’s Henderson Trophy, Robert Fulton and they had the difficult task of having to rank the top three sets in a high quality and varied entry.

In turn the judges gave a detailed critique of each image making encouraging comments and also making suggestions as to how an image could be improved either at the time of taking the image or at the processing stage.

This year an award was made to the top set of images by a non-advanced member. For his set including “The Girl with the Diamond Earring” this award was made to Leonard Esakowitz.

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Diaporama

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Langbank Camera Club January’s club competition topic was ‘Street Life’. Entries submitted depicted many different aspects of life locally and from around the globe.

The winning entry was awarded to Gary Ramanathan for his photograph of “An Accordionist” on the streets of Rome, Italy.

This month we had a mixed evening.

We started with sequences from Adrian and Sue visiting Mugdock Park for the Annual Orchid Hunt with the Glasgow Orchid Society then travelling to see one of the oldest gardens in Iceland, Skrudur. It was

amazing what could be grown on the northern peninsular in such an inhospitable place. We had a short ‘funny’ sequence about how ‘not’ to make an AV -using everything now available just because it was there!

West of Scotland Dry Stone Wallers with Jayne Whitehead (designer) built a memorial garden, at Gardening Scotland, to the gardeners who did not return from the 1st World War and this was then re-built in the grounds of Erskine Hospital. The sequence which recorded the builds was very moving and was enhanced by Sophie Bancroft’s song ‘The Garden’. We finished with ‘Meecing Around’ - a humorous fusion of classical music with the Three Blind Mice theme.

At the next month’s main meeting we will be demonstrating “Picasa”, a no frills, fast, easy to use, photo editing application which is free, yes, free and simple to download. It’s a good starting point for budding photographers and is also a great tool for cataloguing all your images, even if you don’t intend to edit your digital images. Please join us and learn more about Picasa on Monday 9th February.

The Projected Digital Image (PDI) evenings have been a success and will continue to run until the end of the session. The PDI meeting is held on the fourth Monday of the month and concentrates on all things digital, exploring the technology and techniques used to produce digital images.

Derrick McPherson was runner up with his photograph of “The Scooter Family” taken on the streets of Siem

The main February meeting will convene as usual on the second Monday of the month, 9th February, with the PDI meeting on 23rd February. The print competition topic for February is “A Touch of Yellow”. All club meetings are held in Langbank Church Halls, Langbank.

All visitors are welcome to our friendly club nights. Membership of the club is only £10 for the first year so please come along. If you wish to find out more about Langbank Camera Club please visit our website: www.langbankcameraclub. weebly.com or contact Derrick McPherson at langbankcc1@gmail.com with your enquiries.

Reap, Cambodia and third place was awarded to Campbell Watson for his image of a local market scene.

After tea we looked at sequences from a group in Hailsham. A gentle look at the Trossachs, Desiderata - based on a song and one about the ‘Thankful Villages’. These were villages that did not lose anyone in the 1st World War (& some in the 2nd) but had plaques to remember those that went to fight and came back.

Our next meeting is on Monday 9th February in Carrick Centre, Houston at 7.30pm with Gerry & Hugh’s MishMash. Everyone welcome.

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The main theme for the January meeting was “Bring your Camera” to discuss all aspects of camera operation and discussing those all important accessories like memory cards, bags and tripods. This was a very informative evening and enjoyed by all who attended.

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February events

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Thu 5 February Zumbathon for Teenage Cancer Trust

Fri 30 January Family Ceilidh

Bridge of Weir Primary School, Warlock Road, Bridge of Weir 6.30pm to 9.30pm

£10 per family (£3 adult/£2 child). Bar. Prize for best dressed! Tickets via our Facebook page or bowparentcouncil@outlook.com

Fri 30 January - Tue 17 February

Gryffe High School, Old Bridge of Weir Road, Houston 6pm to 7.30pm

Tickets £5 from the School office or sign up on the website.

Fri 6 February RSPB Local Group Talk

Art In The Park

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

The annual exhibition by the Lochwinnoch Art Group. Many beautiful works inspired by the Regional Park and beyond will be on display for viewing and purchasing. Call 01505 842882 X20 for further information.

Sat 31 January Birds for Beginners

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 1.30pm 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. Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife

Coffee Morning

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm

There will be an illustrated talk entitled Strathclyde Badgers by Steve Jackson-Matthews. All welcome.

Kilbarchan Agricultural Show Whist Drive

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 7.30pm

Price £3 including refreshments. Contact Secretary, Aileen on 07766 221369. Everyone welcome.

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

Light snacks with sandwiches and sausage rolls is provided. There will be a raffle with some great prizes up for grabs. Don’t miss out on a great night. Money raised will be going towards Jillian’s gap year in Cambodia with Project Trust. To buy a ticket (£6)please telephone 07523 317093 or email: jillian.craig97@yahoo.co.uk

Pyrate Boy Workshop 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.

Sat 31 January - Sun 1 February

Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 2pm to 3.30pm

A workshop for children aged 8-11 with EB Colin.

Free, but places limited. Contact: kzhang@stcolumbas.org for further information.

Sun 8 February RSPB Wetland guided Walk

Binocular & Telescope Demonstration RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 2pm

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch All Day We have 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

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The reserve team will take you around the site and point out the interesting birds and other wildlife to be found here. Whether you have a general interest in wildlife, or would like to hone your birdwatching skills, then this is the walk for you! Please book, as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers. Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

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Mon 9 February

Fri 13 February

Scotland’s Gardens Open Day

RSPB Astronomy Evening

Ardgowan Estate, Inverkip, PA16 0DW 2pm to 5pm Enjoy the snowdrop walks, homemade teas (at small extra cost), and the joy of supporting a really worthwhile charity. Entry to the estate (directions on the website www.scotlandsgardens.org) this year is from the lodge house only, at the Inverkip roundabout, with parking at the old stables.

Entry £2, children under 12 free, wellies always a good idea. In aid of Ardgowan Hospice and SG’s charities

Wed 11 February Fun Dog Show

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RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 8pm to 9.30pm Come and hear about the stars and galaxies up in the night sky! If the weather is kind to us, we’ll go outside and see some of these wonders for ourselves. The speakers will be from the Astronomical Society of Glasgow. Please book, as places are limited and due to the popularity of this event, please pay at time of booking. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers. Email: lochwinnoch@rspb. org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Stargazing Evening

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Calder Glen Road, Lochwinnoch 7pm to 9pm

Join the Rangers and staff from Coats Observatory for some night sky exploration. Call 01505 842882 X20 - booking essential.

Sat 14 February RSPB Family Volunteering Scout Hall, Finnart Street, Greenock 8pm Pets Paradise are running a fun dog show with a Valentine Theme. There will be lots of pampering and lots of fun. Proceeds going to a named charity and a dog training club.

RSPB Evening Talk

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm Froglife’s Emily Waddell talks about her experiences carrying out research in the Amazon and how this compares to working with Scottish species. Please book, as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers. Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 4pm

This will be the last session of our pilot programme (Sep14 to Feb15)! Contact us for more information. Please book in advance, as spaces are limited. Cost: FREE. Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Kilbarchan Guild Coffee Morning Kilbarchan East Church, Church Street, Kilbarchan 10am to 12noon Tickets £2. All welcome.

Sun 15 February RSPB Sunday Talk

Fri 13 February Advertizer Deadline RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 3.30pm to 4.30pm The Advertizer - Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

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

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‘The Arrow and the Sparrow - the ecology and conservation of swifts and house sparrows’, by Toby Wilson, a Conservation Officer with RSPB Scotland. His talk aims to enlighten and enthuse people about two of our most iconic birds and illustrate what is being done to help them. Please book. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers. Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

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Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 2015

Tue 17 February

Wed 25 February

18 to 29 March 2015

Shrove Tuesday Coffee Morning

Tartan Walk

The 13th Annual Festival of Music, Drama, Literature, Creative & Visual Arts takes place in Lochwinnoch from 18 - 29 March, with pre-festival events on 7th & 15th.

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 11am

A 5km walk with the Renfrewshire Walking Network for some singing and strolling. Please allow 2 hours. Call 01505 842882 X20 for further details.

We will have a full list of events in our March issue, but in the meantime, please visit the Festival website at http:// lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk for details and to book.

St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Kelburne’s Early Xmas Present

Wed 18 February

Weir Networking Event

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Lecture

We look forward to seeing you at the next meeting.

Breakfast included with the cover cost of £5. Come along and meet like-minded business people.

Leading Renfrewshire estate agent Cochran Dickie has just signed a deal to sponsor Kelburne Cricket Club for next season. Kelburne finished runner up in the Western Union CSL First Division confirming promotion along with the league winners and local rivals Ferguslie Cricket Club. Both teams will now compete next year in the Western Union Premier Division against other local rival team Renfrew. This is the first time in years all three Renfrewshire clubs will compete in the same league, which will create some fierce and exciting derby games for the Renfrewshire supporters next season.

Kelburne Cricket Club team captain Qasim Sheikh said: “We are delighted to have Cochran Dickie estate agents on board following the success of the team on the pitch last season. This is a significant sponsorship deal for our club and now we have a local sponsor on board to support us as we compete next season in the Western Union Premier Division.”

As part of the new landmark deal the team will be known as Cochran Dickie Kelburne for the 2015 season. The deal will also include shirt sponsorship and signage in and around Kelburne’s ground in Paisley.

Curtis Chisholm, Director at Cochran Dickie, commented: “We are delighted to invest into Kelburne with this sponsorship deal. Operating as an independent local business we felt that it was vital to integrate with the local community and give something back and this represented a fantastic opportunity. We have got no doubts that they will do well and have a fantastic season next year.”

Neil McLean has recently been replaced as Club President by Javid Ashraf to allow him to focus his efforts on developing the club’s junior team and added: “Local business sponsorship is vital to support youth development at clubs like Kelburne and we owe a huge thank you to our new sponsor for this invaluable contribution to the club.”

The team’s home ground is located in Whitehaugh, an area served by Cochran Dickie’s Paisley office.

Photograph courtesy of Raymond Robertson Photography: (Left to right) Neil McLean, Kelburne’s former President; Iain Storrie, Director; Curtis Chisholm, Director Cochran Dickie and Qasim Sheikh, Kelburne’s Captain.

Active travel & Healthy Start to 2015 - So far I’m sticking to my New Year resolution of trying to keep fit! That has meant being out walking to deliver my 2015 contact calendars, a few runs, some visits to the local gym, and even cycling too. After all, with responsibility for active travel I thought it was time to get back on my bike!

New Calendar - I have been distributing my new 2015 calendar across the constituency. The calendar has helpful information on it including dates and times for my surgeries. If you would like a copy please do not hesitate to contact the constituency office.

Free School Meals - I warmly welcomed the extension on free schools meals by the Scottish Government. It is something I fully support, and indeed extended during my time previously on Renfrewshire Council.

Providing a free school lunch for every P1-3 child in Scotland is an investment in our nation’s future and a good way of tackling inequality.

Evidence shows that well-fed children who’ve had a nutritious lunch do better in school and this policy will help every child achieve his or her best.

Winter Weather - In my transport and constituency role I know that extreme weather often brings travel disruption, particularly when people are making their way to work, schools and appointments.

Local roads, rail and of course the Erskine Bridge can be affected by high winds, and driving conditions could be challenging, particularly for high-sided vehicles.

Motorists should allow extra time for their journeys and check the Traffic Scotland website. Good preparation is also important.

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Lovely pancakes, home baking, and stalls. All welcome.

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Speaker - the renowned Ian Craig, President of Glasgow Beekeeping Association. Further information, call Jill Russell on 01505 872393.

Fri 20 February

Fri 27 February Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir 9.30am

Sat 28 February Kilbarchan Singers’ Ceilidh

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 7.30pm to midnight

Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Society Whist Drive

Live ceilidh band, finger buffet, raffle BYOB Great atmosphere! Why not make up a group to come along and enjoy the fun? Tickets £10 available for any choir member or telephone Margaret 01505 324169.

Tickets £3 includes supper.

Woodlands Day Nursery Open Day

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Woodlands Day Nursery, The Butts, Houston Road, Houston 10am to 12noon

Sat 21 February RSPB - Wildlife Explorer Group

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon Ages: 5 - 14yrs (For under 5s, please contact main leader beforehand: Michael.Jarvis@glasgow.ac.uk ). Cost: £2 Booking is not necessary. For more info, please visit the Lochwinnoch Wex website: www. rspb.org.uk/groups/lochwinnochwex

RSPB Build a bird a home

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 11am to 4pm Build and decorate your very own nest box to help provide a pair of love birds with a home in time for the breeding season. Please book a time slot (1st slot is at 11am & last is at 3pm). Cost: £8 (RSPB members £6) - includes a nest box to take home.

K i l m a c o l m & Po r t G l a s g o w Agricultural Society Dinner Dance River Inn, Houston 7pm for 7.30pm Tickets are £30 a head & include dinner & dancing to a live band, & a grand raffle. Contact Andrew Laird on 01505 871843 or email andrewcc@ btinternet.com

Sun 22 February Raised Beds Building Workshop

Please come along to view our nursery and join in with a Baby Massage Class from 10.30am where you will discover one of the most important bonding experiences between a parent and child.

Please call donna for details or to book a place on 01505 613134.

Sat 28 Feb - Sun 1 March RSPB Binocular & Telescope Open Day RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

Come and peruse a range of telescopes and binoculars, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help you find the right one for you! Our optics are competitively priced, with the added bonus that 100% of the profit goes directly to helping conservation. Cost: FREE. Email: lochwinnoch@ rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663

Sun 1 March Wedding Fayre

Houston Inn, North Street, Houston 1pm to 4pm A country bridal affair! Meet local suppliers, in our comfortable surroundings. Free entry.

Sat 7 March Behind The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan 12.30pm to 3.30pm FREE - Come to Grow Kilbarchan/LEAP’s hands on workshop to learn how to build raised beds.

To register, please phone Susie at LEAP (01505 842530) or email growkilbarchan@gmail.com

MND Coffee Morning

Kilmacolm Community Centre 10am - 12noon All welcome. Entry £3. Come along and support this worthwhile cause.

‘A Little Light Music’ One of Glasgow’s oldest amateur dramatic societies, Glasgow Light Opera Club are bringing their acclaimed concert to Kilbarchan West on Saturday 28th March. Featuring a selection of memorable songs from through the years, under the watchful eye of their concert Musical Director, Greenock’s Mr David Mackie (ex D’Oyly Carte) and introduced by that giant of West of Scotland musical theatre, Mr Walter Paul. Tickets are available from Alison Bone - email: alib2833@gmail.com.

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events

events

every Monday

February - Beacon Arts Centre

Lochwinnoch Community Walk The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

Sugar Beets and Candy Rocks

This event will not take place on a public holiday

every Wednesday

The Sugar Beets and Candy Rocks arts and heritage project celebrates the historic links between Inverclyde and Commonwealth.

Friday 6th Feb 2015 - £free

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

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Line Dancing

The Circus of Horrors - The Night of the Zombie

Bishopton Primary School 7pm - 8.30pm

All abilities welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212.

The show that stormed into the finals of Britain’s Got Talent and now a West End smash is back to mark its 20th Anniversary in spectacular style.

Saturday 7th Feb - £18.00 to £22.00

Romeo & Juliet Ballet West is proud to present “Romeo and Juliet”, Shakespeare’s enduring tale of passion, murder and tragedy in mediaeval Verona danced to Prokovief’s emotional score.

Sunday 8th Feb - £12.00 to £16.00

Pine tree, Poggle & Me Vince wants to explore the forest but he’s too scared to go on his own. Until one day he meets Poggle, a friendly creature who takes him on an incredible journey exploring the forest and the magical musical tree.

Tuesday 10th Feb - £5.00

Keith Jack - A little bit more of me Scottish-born musical theatre star, KEITH JACK, returns to his roots with a new musical show for 2015.

Wednesday 11th Feb - £15.00 to £18.00

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

Conservation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

Paisley Abbey Quiz Night Tuesday 17th February at 7pm in the Place of Paisley. Tickets: £6 (including light supper) from Abbey Shop.

Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. SC007633

St John Passion – J S Bach Sunday 22nd March 7.30pm in Paisley Abbey Choir of Paisley Abbey with orchestra of period instruments

The Stones

Directed by George McPhee

The Rolling Stones are universally known as “The Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World”.

Saturday 14th Feb - £17.50

Tickets: £15 (Nave), £20 (Gallery) , £5 (student)

Jekyll & Hyde Robert Louis Stevenson’s cult classic Jekyll and Hyde is reinterpreted in this modern adaptation set in an alternative London of the future.

Saturday 21st Feb - £8.00 to £10.00

SCDA One Act Play Festival The mixture of 9 one act plays will be performed by members of Greenock Players –who always prove their versatility from Pantomime to drama. GIP Theatre Company and Thistle Theatre Company.

Thursday 26th Feb - Saturday 28th Feb - £8.00 to £10.00

Love 2.0 Gary is a catch, on Facebook at least. He’s virtually a virtual dream man –smart, funny, profound. A certified “Lad”. He even likes all the same things as Susie – cheeky full-fat lattes, One Born Every Minute and the divine melodies of Mick Hucknall and Simply Red. Thursday 26th Feb - £8.00 to £10.00 THE BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723

Evangelist: Stuart Patterson

on sale at the Abbey Shop; Abbey Office 0141 889 7654 or at the door Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. – SC007633

FARMERS

markets

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

1st & 3rd Sunday Loch Lomond Shores

10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd Thur & last Sat Paisley Cross

10am-2pm Tel: 01655 770217

3rd Saturday Erskine Garden Centre

10am - 2pm Tel: 0141 814 4626

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THEATRE

february 2015

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.

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 ‘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 11am1pm

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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Kilmacolm Dramatic Society As promised, here is the latest news on our Spring production.

It will be ‘Allo ‘Allo, by Jeremy Lloyd & David Croft, directed by Linda Lyon, with performances on 23rd, 24th & 25th of April.

The play is based on the television series & concerns Rene, the cafe owner’s attempts to maintain normal business, & his cafe, whilst concealing two British airmen & a priceless painting under the noses of the Gestapo &, at the same time, maintaining radio contact between London & the Resistance using a stuffed cockatoo, & also awaiting a visit from the Fuhrer involving a host of Hitler impersonators. Don’t worry - all will become clear in due course!!

The choice of play is a nod to the fact that KDS was conceived in 1944 & is now 70 years old. It also has resonance with the remembrance of the two World Wars & we hope that it will be seen as part of the larger celebrations.

Further details will be published nearer the time, but the hall is booked for the above dates - so please ‘save the date’ & come along.

Angus Black - President

St Fillan’s and St Mary’s Social Group Trip PITLOCHRY FESTIVAL THEATRE A Little NIGHT MUSIC – ‘a glittering, sophisticated musical’ and with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Date - Saturday 30th May 2015 Matinee at 2pm

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Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Games Society (RIGS) is 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.

It’s like playing on your games console but with more social interaction.

Our meetings in February are on the 11th and 25th at 8pm in the upstairs café bar at Amaretto in Bridge of Weir and if you have any questions or would like more information then 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.

Ardgowan Ball Ardgowan Hospice’s Annual Ball is one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar. Last year a fantastic £24,000 was raised which is all down to the generosity of our guests, volunteers, sponsors & donors, making it our most profitable year ever. This remarkable generosity enables us to maintain the very high levels of care we deliver, both in the hospice environment itself and also in the Inverclyde community at large. Your contribution to this achievement is greatly appreciated.

The highlights of the night include: Champagne reception; Dinner; Entertainment; A fantastic auction & raffle; Dance the night away to the Riffreshers

Transport – Coach leaves Kilmacolm at 9am via Bridge of Weir. High Tea at the Perthshire Visitor Centre on the way home RSVP – by mid February please and with a £25 deposit to Wendy Axford 612807 Ruth Butlin 874808 or to Myra Christie 873180.

Ardgowan Hospice Annual Ball - Saturday 7th March 2015 Greenock Town Hall (Black Tie) - £550 (table of 10 guests)

The cost of your table of 10 is £550 and can be paid by cash or cheque to the hospice. Alternatively you can pay over the phone by contacting Joanna on 01475 558851. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Elaine on 01475 558899 or Elaine.mcneill@ardhosp.co.uk . We look forward to welcoming you and your guests to the Ardgowan Hospice Annual Ball 2015 and in anticipation, may we offer you our sincere thanks for your continued support.

Thank you from the staff and patients.

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Memorial - Bridge of Weir and the First World War 100 years ago this month – February 1915 Frederic Train Barr, 9th H.L.I. And Thomas Brown Lawrie, 2nd Scottish Rifles Since the two fatalities in the second month of the war, Bridge of Weir had been spared further losses, but by February 1915 the war on the Western Front was rekindling and by the month’s end two more telegrams had been received by grieving families.

Frederic Train Barr was born in Glasgow in 1899, the son of James Barr, the founder of the Chartered Surveying practice, and Mary Train. He attended Glasgow Academy and the family moved to Rockcliff, Bridge of Weir, where he met his sweetheart Anna Brown, of Cruachan, Bonar Crescent. Fred was a marine engineer with Fairfields when war broke out. He volunteered almost immediately, joining the 9th HLI (Glasgow Highlanders), and was in France

by November. In February 1915 the battalion was holding the front line just east of Bethune in the Pas-de-Calais when German shells scored a hit on their advanced billets. Fred was killed by falling masonry. He was 26. His executrix was his girlfriend Anna, who, like many women who lost their intended lifepartners in the war, was never to marry. We will hear more of the Barr family.

Thomas Brown Lawrie was born in 1885 in Kingsbarns, Fife the son of David Lawrie, a journeyman mason from England, and Jane Brown from Crail. Sometime after 1911 Thomas was working as a mason with John Cumming in Kilmacolm and had found lodgings in Gryffe View, Bridge of Weir.

Like Fred Barr, he volunteered in September 1914, joining the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) and after training in Nigg, he arrived in France in late December 1914. Thomas was hospitalised on 9th February 1915 after being struck by a sniper’s bullet while building up trench sandbags in the front line near Estaires, about ten miles north of Bethune. The wounds led to complications and his war had lasted only two months when he died of pneumonia in Boulogne Hospital on 28th February 1915. He was 29.

Read more about Fred and Tom’s life and untimely death at http://www. bridgeofweirmemorial.co.uk/index.html

Gordon Masterton

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Gryffe Valley Rotary Toy Library - No sooner had the major WOW project been fully funded (hopefully the special boat for wheelchair users will be delivered to Castle Semple early in 2015) than Gryffe Valley had identified another challenging project to stock a library with specialist toys for use by disabled children.

The club hopes to raise at least £10,000 over the next few months for expensive toys and play resources, like sensory story books, aimed at meeting developmental, therapeutic and cognitive needs.

This years Gryffe Valley 10K Run will be held on Sunday 26th April over the same Houston/Bridge of Weir course as last year. It will in aid of the new Toy Library project – hopefully a good turnout and strong support will help to kickstart the fundraising for this challenging but immensely worthwhile project.

Open Meeting - On 11th March, Gryffe Valley will be holding a special Open Meeting when Amanda McMillan OBE, the Managing Director of Glasgow Airport, will be talking about her career, the future of the airport and the support given to local good causes through the Flightpath Fund. All individuals, companies and organisations who are interested in hearing Amanda and learning a bit about Rotary, are invited to attend. If you’re interested, please contact Mike Farley (01505 613314), or visit the Gryffe Valley website or facebook page for more details on this, and indeed on all other stories.

Burns Supper - The annual Gryffe Valley Burns Supper was again a great success! After a traditional River Inn menu, the audience of almost 200 were royally entertained by a succession of top level performances. Len Murray, an internationally renowned speaker on Burns, amused and captivated his audience with an overview of the remarkable and unique status of Burns’ life and work, and his role in preserving the Scots language. In his Toast to the Lassies,Wylie Woodburn had somewhat scurrilous stories of the male view of the fair sex and he correctly anticipated a robust response from Baroness Goldie of Bishopton (aka Annabelle). Indeed Annabelle had some scurrilous tales of her own, including some poetic verses on well known political figures!

Jim Ferguson’s remarkable performance of Tam O’ Shanter is almost an institution at this event, and beautiful renditions of some well known Burns’ songs by Sheila Hall and John Shirreffs rounded off an outstanding evening which raised over £3000 for Gryffe Valley projects in the local community.

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LEAP Energy Savings Energy Saving – ‘Make it Happen’

Weir Networking Group Come along and meet like-minded business people on Friday 27th February at 9.30am at Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir PA11 3AB. Entry fee of £5 includes a wonderful breakfast!

Mark this event in your diary as the event not to be missed!

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The winter hit in January with some really cold snaps and snow making it hard for many of us to sort out those draughts and places in the house that lose most of the heat. You could get some help to make small draught proofing and insulation measures to your home without having to do the DIY. We have experienced energy advisors who know what actions you can take that suit your home and budget, they give you tailored advice that is free and impartial, then we can even provide a local ‘handy man’ who is able to put the ideas into action and make your home more cosy. To arrange a visit or find out more about our ‘Make It Happen’ initiative, contact info@ myleapproject.org call 01505 842 530 or 01505 612 034.

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LOCAL

history

The History Spot The Old Village of Houston Houston village was traditionally one of the seventeen parish villages or kirktouns in Renfrewshire. From the middle of the eighteenth century, Houston estate passed from the Houston family through various owners, the most wealthy of whom were colonial planters, including one from Jamaica, and another who was an island Governor. The biggest changes to the village occurred from the 1780s, again with sugar and tobacco money, when the whole estate was purchase by another colonial merchant, Archibald Speirs of Elderslie.

Speirs carried out a survey of his whole Houston estate, which comprised more than a thousand acres of Houston parish situated along the Gryfe Water, and north towards Barochan and Kilmacolm.

The proposal was to improve the lands and also to create a new planned village. Building commenced in 1781 and two streets were laid out, parallel with the Houston Burn.

Unlike Bridge of Weir and Crosslee nearby, Houston has no river running through it. Despite this, and the rural situation, the very modest Houston Burn was managed to provide power and process water for at least five new industries to provide employment in the new village.

Reservoirs were built further up the burn to store water. Four bleachfields were laid out along the burn. The largest, just west of the new village, was owned by the Carlisle family of Paisley, and whitened cotton yarn, sewing thread, muslins and lawns.

In the early 1790s, Paisley merchant Robert Park purchased land beside the avenue of Houston House, including Gardeners Acre, Goosebutts, Milnhouse and Saughfence Parks.

Part of the area was flooded to create a reservoir, and a lade was diverted off the burn to create a fall of thirty feet. This drove a water wheel, which powered a cotton spinning mill, four storeys high and a hundred feet long, employing 140 locals. Textile manufacture also provided the main employment in the village itself, with 42 looms in private houses, weaving cotton, muslin, lawn and silk gauze. There was also a small centralised ‘factory’ or weaving shop where handloom weavers wove expensive fabrics. In its first decade, the village population rose from sixteen families to fifty seven.

The downside to the new planned village was that we have little record of the earlier preimprovement village. Fortunately, in recent years, the estate plans surveyed c.1780 have been rediscovered. More than a dozen colour plans show each farm on the estate, plus the old village, just before the new village was laid out. They show the old village of Houston, including the school and two pubs, clustered around the market cross and the parish kirk, which had been rebuilt in 1775.

The Houston estate plans, can be viewed at the National Library of Scotland or by contacting RLHF. Next Month: The effect of the changes on Houston Castle. © 2015 Stuart Nisbet, Renfrewshire Local History Forum

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 10th February when the speaker will be Bobby Guthrie talking about “Covenanting”. Bobby grew up in New Cumnock joining the local History Group as a teenager with an interest in the Covenanting period, he is a member of the Scottish Covenanter Memorials Association and serves on its committee.

Last month’s talk on the History of Johnstone was very well received and we had a number of visitors who came and enjoyed the talk. All visitors and new members will be made welcome.

Johnstone History Museum, which is situated in Morrison’s at the Collier Street end, is open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm and is manned by volunteers from the History Society. Our World War 1 Exhibition is still available to view. The audio visual equipment which was purchased with money received from the Flight Path Fund, is now up and running and you are able to look at old pictures of Johnstone by asking one of the volunteers

iT blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom I am frequently amazed when I see what computer users put up with before calling me in for a repair. Sometimes people can be plagued by pop-ups, Internet searches redirected to dodgy websites or more common these days, home page defaults to something loosely resembling Google but in effect is actually nothing like it.

These problems are a blight on web search and productivity so the best you can do is revert settings back to a homepage of your choice and remove the internet add-ons causing the redirected searches.

To tackle one of these issues is by removing web extensions. To do this on Google Chrome browser click the three horizontal bars at the top right of the browser window, this will open a drop down menu, go to settings. In here, a window will open and to the left select ‘extensions’. A list may appear with rubbish bin graphics to the right, click ‘em all! If you really want a ‘weather bar’ then this is not for you but then, I’d defy anyone who wants a weather bar.. They are worse than useless.

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I will come back to Google Chrome over the next few months, It is regarded by many as the best web browser so it is worth knowing it properly for optimal search performance.

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Kaylin Spratt Clyde 1 Kool Ride to Skool Boogie Bus Kaylin, who is 5 Year’s old, was successful in winning the Clyde 1 Competition Kool Ride to Skool. Kaylin sang “Ally Bally Bee” to George and Cassi on the Clyde 1 breakfast show on Tuesday 6th January.

She made this song her own by adding a personal touch and incorporating George and Cassi’s names into the song.

Kaylin had 14 Friends from Houston Primary join her on the Boogie Bus.

Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car?

‘Yes’ is the short answer - even if you’re only making a two-minute journey, by not thoroughly cleaning your car of and precipitation or condensation – including all windows, lights and even anything that could fall off into the path of another motorists – you’re breaking the law and leaving yourself liable to a run in with the police.

The Highway Code stipulates that if driving in adverse weather conditions you must, by law, be able to see out of every glass panel in your vehicle.

David and Jen from Clyde 1 Came and met with all the kids who were super excited, Big thank you to Clyde 1’s Kool Ride to school team along with the teacher’s at

Houston Primary, the children all had a fantastic time.

That means fully wiping snow or frost from every window (a quick once over with a credit card or CD case is not good enough!). Use a proper scraper and de-icer. It might cost a few pounds, but it works and will save you time.

It’ll also reduce your risk of having a crash. Poor visibility through un-cleared windows could mean you miss that car as you pull onto a main road. If your insurance company finds you were at fault through neglecting to properly prepare your vehicle, they could potentially withhold a pay-out.

It’s the law that all lights and number plates are clearly visible too. In the murky grey light that often comes with winter conditions it’s advisable to drive with your sidelights or dipped headlamps on so as other drivers can see you.

Without this they might miss you as they pull out of a side road, leading to the same consequences as above.

For the same reasons it’s imperative that all your mirrors are clear and demisted along with your vehicle’s glass area – don’t be tempted to drive off before your vision is 100%.

Finally, don’t forget to remove snow from bonnets, bumpers and the roof – you have a responsibility to ensure nothing falls off your car and into the path of other road users, potentially causing damage to their vehicles.

If you don’t adhere these rules you could leave yourself open to a £60 fine and three penalty points on your licence, at worst under the offences of careless or inconsiderate driving. http://www.rac.co.uk/community/blog/rac-blog/december-2012/is-it-illegal-todrive-with-snow-on-your-car

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bishopton, langbank ..................................................... & bridge of weir A large area of Langbank was cut off in mid January due to severe flooding. These “Once in 20 years” weather events seem to be happening with scary frequency. I have asked the council roads engineers to increase the regularity of drain cleaning on the Main Road to try to give residents a fighting chance of staying connected to the rest of the world!

In Dargavel Village, Bishopton the “shared surface” signage saga continues. I have been assured that the developer will have compliant signs erected by the end of January. I shall also be asking Roads Department for an assurance that the design of Slateford Road is satisfactory. It seemed to me inevitable that a vehicle would become stuck in the drainage ditch as happened in the January snow.

I attended a most entertaining charity Burns Supper hosted by the Ingliston Equestrian Centre in aid of the Erskine Care Home. It was a privilege to share a table with former soldiers who are now resident there.

In Bridge of Weir, the proposed Shillingworth development is worrying a number of residents, with the developers now seeking planning permission for 50 rather than 40 houses.

Some constituents have expressed justifiable concern that the administration of Renfrewshire Council has decided to remove all village community halls and libraries from Council control to that of Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd, which is an arms-length trust. This will mean these community facilities will be run as businesses rather than as public services. It is to be hoped that this will not prove to be a detrimental move.

There was great news for parents with the commitment of £2.7 million in support for early years from the Scottish Government. This will help parents who are considering taking up training opportunities or returning to work. It will facilitate children’s socialising and learning and will create employment in nurseries.

Cllr.maria.brown@renfrewshire.gov.uk Telephone: - 03003 001259 Mobile: - 07534 148734 Surgeries: - Bridge of Weir - 1st Tues, Cargill Hall 11.00 – 11.30 a.m.

Bishopton/Langbank - 2nd Wed of the month Bishopton Community Library 6.15pm - 6.45pm

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Villagers in Langbank have set up a petition asking Transport Scotland to make the roundabout junction onto the A8 safer. This has been an issue for several years and many councillors, myself included, have tried to persuade Transport Scotland to address the issue. With the closure of the village shop more villagers are now having to travel for daily provisions and more traffic is using the junction. I am delighted to support the petition and would urge you to support this also. The petition can be accessed at: https://www.change.org/p/transport-scotland-make-thisjunction-and-our-community-safe or via the Langbank facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/LangbankNews I have reported several faulty streetlights across Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank for repair. There was a particular problem in Denniston Rd and Middlepenny Rd Langbank and several streetlights will be repaired.

Following representation from several Bridge of Weir residents about the poor 30mph signage on the A761 at the Deafhillock roundabout, I requested that the council erect new signs to advise drivers of the speed limit. This will, I hope, encourage drivers to observe the speed limit and lower the amount of those who have been stopped for inadvertently speeding in the area.

I am aware of extremely slow broadband speeds in some areas of Ward 10 (Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank). There is a national programme currently underway to replace copper cabling with fibre optic cabling which allows for ‘superfast’ broadband speeds. The programme aims to deliver this infrastructure to Bishopton before the end of June this year and to Bridge of Weir and Langbank before the end of this calendar year.

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.

Bridge Of Weir Choral Society After their very successful Christmas concert at St Columba church in December with the Renfrew Burgh Band, members of the choral society would like to say a very big ‘thank you’ to the audience. The choir supports MND Scotland every Christmas by requesting donations for refreshments which are provided at the church by a willing band of helpers after the performance.

This year £373.55 was raised and the charity has asked us to pass on their thanks to everyone whose kindness resulted in such a generous donation; this will help to fund Specialist Nurses who deliver and co-ordinate the care need by someone with Motor Neurone Disease and to continue funding research into a cure.

The choir’s next concert will be on Saturday 25th April 2015 at St Columba Church; the main item being a performance of “The Armed Man” by Karl Jenkins. More information in the next edition of The Advertizer. www.bridgeofweirchoralsociety.org.uk.

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february 2015

Bridge of Weir Festival

Brighter Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir Festival would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in the Santa Sleigh runs throughout December. We would also like to thank all the organisations who came out with Santa and his sleigh: “41 Club”, Gryffe High School World Challenge team1, Houston Guides, Hope Hall, Gryffe High School World Challenge team2, Senior Guides, Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley, Bridge of Weir United FC, 1st Bridge of Weir Guides, 2nd Bridge of Weir Guides, Brighter Bridge of Weir.

Hannah Steps Up Gryffe High School pupil Hannah Morrison did her bit to brighten Bridge of Weir recently. Hannah, a fourthyear student at the school, was seeking a challenge for her Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award. So she contacted Brighter Bridge of Weir and asked if she could spruce up the steps leading down from Bonar Crescent and on to Castle Terrace.

Well, the group’s Chair, Alice Johnstone, thought about it for all of two seconds. “Why not?”

The Festival committee also went out to cover the two nights in Kilmacolm which were not done by the expected groups due to the bad weather. Santa handed out sweets to 1,431 children over the 15 nights. We had to extend his visit to the area by an extra night to do the lower Kilmacolm route, to save any disappointment to the children. Apologies to those roads which were missed out. We endeavour to complete the routes between 6pm and 8.30 PM each night, but due to lack of bodies to help us do we were unable to complete some of the routes.

On a warmer note the Christmas Prize Bingo organised by the Festival Committee was once again a successful evening which was enjoyed by over 60 participants. The raffle draw after the light buffet was ably assisted by our Gala Queen, Cori Rankin, and her two Attendants, Sarah Feechan & Hannah McCann-Willis.

Donations were also given out by the Festival Committee to Senior Citizens, Elderly Forum and Royal British Legion Scotland Bridge of Weir Social Club.

The next meeting of the Festival Committee is also the AGM which will be held on Tuesday 10th February at 7.30 PM in the Cargill Hall. On the Agenda will be Gala Queen Selection and 2015 Gala Day and Festival week.

For those who may not be familiar with the route, the steps lead down from Bonar Crescent in Bridge of Weir’s Ranfurly area, past the east gable of the former Castle Hotel and out onto Kilbarchan Road. The footpath itself is about 150 metres (around 170 yards in old money) from start to finish.

So far, so good. But it drops - or climbs - a height of over 40 metres (130 feet) in the process, using 152 steps and a fairly steep gradient to do so.

And it’s overgrown by moss and weeds and covered by fallen leaves. Or rather, it was. Spending a couple of hours a week over summer, Hannah changed all that. And we’ve got pictures to prove it.

“It was hard work,” said Hannah. She can say that again. Spending a total of more than 24 hours on the project, Hannah filled over 60 binbags with fallen leaves, weeds, moss and assorted detritus. Her Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award has been well earned.

Meanwhile, Brighter Bridge of Weir’s other volunteers were out taking down the Christmas lights and other decorations that they’d worked hard to put up around the village centre only a few weeks before.

They’ll be back down to earth, literally, before they know it. Thanks once again to all the local residents and businesses who allowed the group to use their homes and premises for the festive displays.

You can find out more about Hannah’s work and other news at brighterbridgeofweir.org, or on facebook. com/brighterbridgeofweir.

Festival Lends a Hand

Gryffe Voices

Two 11 year old girls from Paisley, Melissa & Sophia, contacted Bridge of Weir Festival and asked if we could assist with a fund raising night, which they would organise. This involved inviting Santa Claus to visit Castle Gardens, Paisley with his sleigh and handing out sweets to all the children who came out to meet with Santa. Grateful thanks goes to all the residents who participated in the collection which raised £172 in aid of Mary’s Meals www.marysmeals.org.uk.

Gryffe Voices is a new community choir, for all adults who enjoy singing. We meet on Monday evenings from 8pm to 9.45pm at Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. We sing pop, rock , folk , gospel, songs from around the world and musicals. Come and join us if you like singing and want to have fun, whether or not you read music. For more details contact gryffevoices@gmail. com.

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

Bridge Of Weir Elderly Forum

The Bridge of Weir Elderly Forum held their Annual Christmas Dinner in the Royal British Legion Scotland Hall, Bridge of Weir, on Thursday 11th December.

Fifty eight people attended, including nine guests. After dinner the prizes in the raffle, which had been donated by the members, were given out by the Gala Queen and her attendants. A hamper, which was donated by the Festival Committee, was won by Mrs Heather Arthur. We were entertained by Alan Docherty from Paisley for the rest of the evening. To help towards the cost of the dinner we were awarded a grant from Age Scotland of £400.00 and a donation of £300.00 from the Festival Committee. Thanks to these generous donations a very good evening was had by all who attended.

Senior Citizens Bridge of Weir SWRI The Bridge of Senior Citizens’ Association held their Annual Christmas Dinner on 17th December in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew. Fifty people attended including ten guests.

After dinner the prizes in the raffle were presented by the Gala Queen and her two attendants and a hamper which was presented by the Festival Committee was won by Mrs Margaret Jamieson. We also had music provided

by Jim a keyboard player. Each member of the Association was given a box of Arran Chocolates. To help towards the cost of the dinner we were awarded a grant of £400.00 from Age Scotland and a donation of £300.00 from The Bridge of Weir Festival Committee. We are very grateful to both organisations for their generosity.

The next meeting of the Rural takes place on Thursday 5th February at 7.30pm in the British Legion with John Gall, Managing Director of Brownings the Bakers of Kilmarnock.

All members and visitors will be made very welcome.

LEAP Savings Energy Saving Shop LEAP are now selling a variety of draught proofing and energy saving materials from our drop-in centre in Bridge of Weir. Take a look at our window display, drop in to find out more and you could visit our website visit www.myleapproject.org

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Bridge of Weir Comm. Council Bridge of Weir Community Council’s first meeting of 2015 will be held on Tuesday 3rd of February at 7pm in the Cargill Hall.

Police Scotland is currently consulting on their proposals for strengthening local policing, as a key stakeholder they have invited the Community Council to respond.

The proposal, which would potentially result in ‘K’ and ‘L’ Divisions amalgamating and becoming one single Division, these aims are to strengthen local policing for the communities in the region. The Community Council have invited the Police to give a presentation on the proposals to the meeting.

The meeting will also hear a Community Councillor’s suggestion to investigate whether a bund arrangement could be implemented in the Houston Road Park to prevent flooding onto Houston Road during heavy rainfall conditions.

We are awaiting to hear Renfrewshire Councils decision on Persimmon Homes planning application to erect 50 homes at Shillingworth, the Community Council made representation supporting the concerns of nearby residents.

The meeting is expected to hear of any progress with the Traffic Calming measures for Lintwhite Crescent, the placement of recycle bins at Livery Walk, white lining at various junctions within the Village, and increased 30 mph signage from the traffic lights at the Linclive slip road junctions towards Deafhillock roundabout and Brookfield.

Recently the Community Council were included in a series of emails between a resident from Houston, Local Councillors, and McGill’s buses. It centred around McGill’s Service 19 and it’s irregularity due to constant breakdowns, the condition of their buses and the lack of heating, in some cases none at all.

Many users will agree with the resident’s sentiments ‘Shake Rattle and Freeze’.

It was also noted that in times of plummeting fuel prices McGill’s had increased local fares.

The Community Council’s Christmas lights switch-on has received many favourable comments. The bucket collection on the evening amounted to £326 - this went someway to funding the event. Many thanks to everyone who contributed. The raffle on the night was won by Morag Brock.

Fund raising will continue throughout the year to help us enhance and expand the Christmas Lights experience for 2015.

Many thanks to all the volunteers who have been “doing their bit” by helping to clear the roads during recent adverse weather. We have had floods sending mud and stones onto the roads and snow and ice causing chaos, but folks have been out with brushes and spades, even a Landrover and snowplough out doing his bit. Please note, as a special plea, that grit boxes are for grit, and not a place to put rubbish. Please take the rubbish home and into the appropriate bin! The grit bins are there for you to help yourself from, but if the grit is running low please call for a fill up.

If you will miss spring clean week on 1st of February 2015, watch out for the next one. In the meantime please sweep up your pavement and use your brown bin - let’s clean up Bridge of Weir. The brown bin service operates from 1st March to 30th November every year.

I’ve seen and read of a number of problems that traffic is having in the villages.

Slateford Road in Bishopton seems to be a nightmare in icy weather! The AA has some helpful advice on its “winter driving” website including this….

“Uphill - avoid having to stop part way up by waiting until it is clear of other cars or by leaving plenty of room to the car in front [no tailgating!]. Keep a constant speed, choosing the most suitable gear well in advance to avoid having to change down on the hill.” So if you see traffic coming up hill please give way for it.

Surgery details: Bishopton Community Library - 1st Monday of every month (6.30pm). Cargill Hall - 2nd Monday of every month (7.30pm). Langbank Parish Church Hall - 3rd Monday of every month (6.30pm).

I can be contacted by phone on 0300-300-1291 or by email to cllr.james. maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk . Check out my Facebook page for more information and articles www.facebook.com/councillormaclaren Working with you and improving our local area. Please feel free to contact me with any of your concerns, and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time.

RagBag Recycle Bin Langbank 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.

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The Bridge Spring is awakening. Get ahead - renew your stocks of Stationery and prepare for all the birthdays and celebrations expected in 2015.

POST OFFICE – friendly, efficient service within your Post Office. For forthcoming birthdays, a great idea is the prepaid Gift Card on sale at the counter. Please ask Donald, Pat or Anne for information.

STATIONERY – a comprehensive range of stationery items. We are delighted customers are using The Bridge as a “one stop shop” bringing items for posting, purchasing the necessary packaging, wrapping on site and posting all in one go.

GREETING CARDS – we are continually replenishing our stock to cover life’s events. For those with milestone birthdays the range of cards covers from ages 1 to 100. A small stock of Valentine cards are on sale – send your love in 2015! Easter falls at the beginning of April this year – send your Easter Greetings - individual and packs of Easter Cards on sale from mid February.

NEW HAPPENINGS IN THE BRIDGE – new Hobby Group started in January. For a warm welcome please come along on a Wednesday morning between 10.30am and 12noon to enjoy Hobby time and/or chat. Your Community Centre is there to ensure you have a place to meet with others.

CAFÉ, LOCAL CRAFT WORKERS & ART – please drop in to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee whilst browsing through the selection of used books (which changes regularly), local crafted items and Artwork on sale.

Our volunteers look forward to your next visit to The Bridge. (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)

Langbank SWRI

On Thursday the 19th February, Rene Fian, a rural member, will speak about The British Red Cross in the Village Centre, at 7.30pm.

A `window` in the weather, allowed The Bearsden Fiddlers to travel and entertain at our open fund raising night for the Langbank Church Fabric Fund.

Very many thanks to Gleddoch House Hotel for their generous help and to all who came along and enjoy enjoyed the wonderful and varied music.

BoW TARA Despite the wintry conditions the latest meeting of Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association was well attended, with thanks to Councillor James McLaren and representatives of the Police and the Wardens Service for their attendance.

The Police report for the last month showed that there were 15 crimes committed within the village, these ranged from disorderly conducts, through thefts including one of a motorbike, 2 acts of vandalism, 3 housebreakings and a report of someone pointing a laser pen at an overhead plane. Given the number of housebreakings in the village coupled with like crimes in Houston, Langbank and Bishopton, the Police have set up a dedicated team to investigate based at Johnstone Police Station.

There have been a number of incidents at Livery Walk car park concerning drivers not obeying the white arrowed one way system. Drivers are reminded that they are requested to stay left when entering the car park and that their co-operation with this system will see the car parking facilities run more smoothly to the benefit of all drivers. The T.A.R.A. will be in contact with Renfrewshire Council regarding this matter.

Their have been complaints about wheelie bins blocking the pavement at the flats on Houston Road. The fact that residents of the flats are allowed to partially park on the pavement means that Wheelie bins are a constant hazard for pedestrians with some having to circumvent parked cars and wheelie bins by walking on the road, residents are therefore asked to remove their bins from the pavement as soon as possible.

The Wardens Service would like it to be known that they are now operating at different times and they can now be called upon from 8am till Midnight on a Friday and Saturday, 11am till 10pm on a Sunday and 8am till 10pm Monday to Thursday.

The next meeting of the Tenants and Residents Association will be on the 17th February at 7.30pm in the Pirie Centre at Freeland Church.

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

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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 tailor the look to suit your own decor.

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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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howwood kilmacolm

& elderslie

& quarriers ..................................................... .....................................................

Howwood Women’s Rural Institute

Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month from September to April. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 17th February at the usual time of 7.30pm in Howwood Village Hall. This will be a talk on Renaissance Furniture by Mr Shane Williams. The competition will be Silver Item and the hostesses will be Cath Love and Margaret Jamieson.

The Vote of Thanks will be given by Jane Millar. Members please note there will be a Sales Table each month except November, December and April with proceeds going to St Vincent Hospice.

Also please remember to bring your The next meeting of Elderslie own cup for tea! For more information Community Council Tuesday 3rd contact Mrs Irene MacTaggart on February in the Elderslie Village Hall at 7.30pm in the Jean Goldie Room.

01505 704800.

All Welcome.

Elderslie Community Council Meeting

Howwood Community Council We are delighted to announce the date of this year’s Scottish Night open to all residents of Howwood aged 60 or over. For only £2 per person, you can come along to the Village Hall on Saturday 14th March at 6.15pm for 6.30pm and enjoy an evening of haggis, neeps and tatties, drinks from the bar, live music, entertainment and a guaranteed raffle prize – put the date in your diaries now!

If you need transport to and/or from the hall, or are interested in tickets, please contact Linda Smith. We would welcome any prize donations for the raffle and these can be given to any community councillor any time between now and the Scottish Night. Thank you so much for your support.

This year’s Spring Clean will be held on the weekend of 11th/12th April so if you have time please keep these days free as many hands make light work – more information nearer the time.

Meetings of the Community Council are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm in Howwood Village Hall. Please feel free to come along and find out more about the work we do – all welcome.

This is not directly a Howwood issue, but will be of interest to villagers. Persimmon homes are holding a pre-planning application consultation about building houses on the site of the old St Cuthbert’s school in Spateston. It is basically to hear public views before a formal application is put in to the council.

I attended three quite superb Carol Services on 18th December at St Columba’s Church in the village, preceded by the 9.30am Service at Newark Primary in Port Glasgow. Kilmacolm Primary School as per usual had P7 conducting proceedings, carried off successfully with their usual confidence. The afternoon saw the St Columba’s Junior school Carol Service again with six readings by pupils and 5 choirs singing Carols. The Senior School in the evening gave the audience a wonderful service of singing , readings and orchestral pieces. The Rev Peter McEnhill summed up the excellence in his vote of thanks. A word of appreciation for the keeper of all things worldly at St Columba’s Church, Wilson Hogarth. The Church is made ready not just for the services but the practices that go before.

The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Fillans brings the village together at Christmas in an ecumenical spirit rounded off with a traditional glass of mulled wine. I have been asked by St Fillans if they could have a sign on the main road directing visitors to their Church. Signs to the Golf Club and the Bowling Club have proved useful.

We are consulting for the first time on our budget. I personally believe that we as councillors are elected to make the tough decisions and if we get them wrong then the electorate can vote us out of office. Senior Officers are paid generous salaries to also advise us on difficult decisions and the options available. The public consultation events in Port Glasgow were not well attended though I have taken on board representations from parent councils of the schools in my Ward.

I am not In favour of increasing the Council Tax. Some 30% of our householders receive help with their Council Tax so the brunt of any increase would fall on the remaining 70%, many of whom live in Kilmacolm.

We have had 3 years in the village without Traffic Warden since the Police disbanded them. The Council has now employed their own and they are causing some degree of angst amongst the shopkeepers and the residents of the village. Quote from a prominent trader “ the Traffic Wardens arrive and the village empties”. On one occasion 5 arrived and they also turned up on the day of a large funeral when the village was packed. There is an on-line petition and a paper one in the shops asking for changes in the traffic regulations and the deployment of Traffic Wardens. We managed perfectly well for 3 years without them!

In December there were 21 crimes reported in the village, twice the number in December 2013. Included were 6 housebreaking and 6 vehicle crimes or offences. There were no calls to our community warden service during the month and 33 for the year, and I would remind readers of the number 0800 01 317 01 in the event of anti social behaviour.

Works have started at Nittingshill Bridge in Quarriers Village. Moves have been put in place to accommodate the X7A bus service during the bridge replacement and I hope that businesses will not be too badly affected during what I believe will be a project nearer to 12 weeks than 20.

My surgeries are 11th at St Francis School Port Glasgow 6-7 and the 21st at The Cargill Centre Kilmacolm. I can be contacted by email on david.wilson@ inverclyde.gov.uk and 01475 712727, 741969 and 07766 992294.

During the Christmas break I did a bit of walking in the Howwood area. We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful area and on a cold crisp day nothing quite beats some of the views from high above the village.

The councils administration is just about to complete its budget and in the next issue of the The Advertizer I will discuss its proposals.

Council officers have agreed to do some work on Hill Road . They will be bringing the Stop line out on to Midton Road by a metre to allow a better line of site for drivers coming down the hill . Along with some additional signage this should help drivers.

My surgery is on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6 pm in the village hall.

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Last month work started on a £275,000 project to replace the single-track Nittinghill Bridge over Gotter Water on Craigbet Road in Quarrier’s Village. While the bridge is scheduled to be closed for up to five months – with vehicles diverted along the A761 - it is likely that the works will be completed within 3-4 months.

To try and minimise the disruption as much as possible, the Council is issuing social media messages highlighting that the village is open as usual and the Roads Service has provided diversion signs at key locations. The Council may also be able to support local businesses during the bridge closure and associated disruption through non domestic rates hardship relief and our business support scheme.

I apologise for not getting my monthly article in for the January edition of the Advertizer, but I had a bout of pneumonia in December.

Sadly illness prevented me from attending most of December’s Christmas events.

At the recent council Environment & Regeneration meeting we passed more road works to be carried out. Several of the roads will be in Quarrier’s Village and further work in Kilmacolm. Some of these roads problems had been raised with me in the past which I had contacted officers about at the time and so it is good to see these are now to be repaired.

The council is now replacing the Nittingshill Bridge in Quarrier’s Village. The state of the bridge was reported to myself and other councillors in the past, and while we realise this will create inconvenience for several months while the bridge is replaced in the end it will be well worth it once the work is completed.

There have been complaints about half hour parking and fines in Kilmacolm. When the council’s parking strategy was being considered I did raise the issue that Kilmacolm should not be compared with the likes of Greenock town centre. The number and nature of small businesses in the village hardly lends itself to half hour parking for its customers. Indeed Greenock town centre’s position was quickly reviewed when areas there were not working well shortly after the new traffic regime was introduced. It makes sense to have the situation in Kilmacolm reviewed as soon as possible and proper and adequate on street parking times introduced.

The announcement that this year’s cruise season will see even more vessels arrive in Greenock with 100,000 passengers expected to disembark is fantastic news and a real boost to the Inverclyde and Scottish economy.

In January a report went before the Environment & Regeneration Committee containing proposals for investment of £600,000 for carriageway surface treatments in the upcoming 2015/16 financial year. The proposals were approved and include investment in a number of roads in Quarrier’s Village: Craigbet Road, Craigbet Place, Craigbet Crescent, Craigbet Avenue and Torr Avenue (excluding the private section). A separate report on the main roads asset management plan investment of £5.8m for 2015/16 will be presented to the March meeting of the Committee. In April we will provide you with details of any local investment proposals contained within that report.

Also at the January meeting of the Committee a report was presented containing £950,000 of new flood prevention proposals and subsequently approved. £358,000 has been allocated to replace culverts at Market Place and Gowkhouse Road in Kilmacolm and. £203,000 for flood embankment works and a flow control structure at Gotter Water in Quarrier’s Village.

The Council was previously unsuccessful in securing funding from the Scottish Government for these projects and has now decided to use its own resources.

The programme for the £3.7m refurbishment of Kilmacolm Primary School remains on track for an October 2015 site start, with the appointment of the successful contractor being imminent at the time of writing. The project is due for completion by October 2016.

Councillor McColgan My surgeries this month are on Thursday 5th February, 6pm–7pm, in St Francis’ Primary School and Tuesday 17th February, 6pm–7pm, in Kilmacolm 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 10th February, 6pm - 7pm, Boglestone Community Centre and Tuesday 24th February, 6pm – 7pm, 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.

Finally, as I write this month’s article the annual Inverclyde Festival is due to begin soon and over the two weeks of the event I hope to attend a few performances.

My next surgeries in February will be on Wednesday 4th at Newark Primary School from 5.30pm - 6.30pm and Thursday 12th at Kilmacolm Community Centre from 1pm-2pm.

Anyone wanting to contact me between surgeries can do so by phoning me though my office 01475 712727 or mobile 07747 765 839, emailing me at jim.macleod@inverclyde.gov.uk or writing to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock, PA15 1LY.

Coffee Morning MND MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Scotland are holding a Coffee Morning on Saturday 7th March in New Community Centre Kilmacolm from 10am - 12noon.

Entry £3.

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Heart Felt Thanks

The family of Mabel Harvey, who died on 28th December 2014 aged 91, would like to thank Wilma McDonald and staff at Marcus Humphrey in Quarriers Village for the excellent care she received for the past 8 years.

St Fillan’s, St Fillan’s Angel Kilmacolm Coffee Morning Voices Choir The Annual Shrove Tuesday Coffee Morning 10-12noon in St Fillan’s Church, Moss Road Kilmacolm on Tuesday 17th February; lovely pancakes, home baking, and stalls.

St Fillan’s Angel Voices Choir will be entering the Inverclyde Music Festival again this year in the Mixed Choir Section. They will be singing two songs on Wednesday 4th February at 7pm in Greenock Town Hall.

Looking for a local venue?

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.

FEBRUARY OFFERS FROM ARLENE MITCHELL HAIR & BEAUTY Sam is building up her clientele nicely as she is now fully qualified.

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She has pleasure in offering a 30% discount to all her clients for the month of February 2015.

Charlene is now offering a 10% discount on a Thursday only!

Please cut out this offer and take it with you to the Salon to get your discount.

You can now follow the Salon on Facebook.

CONGRATULATIONS SOLE SOLUTION PODIATRY We’d like to wish Sole Solution Podiatry a very happy first birthday!

Laura opened her clinic within Kilmacolm in Feb 2014 and has built up a great reputation.

She provides the highest quality foot care to all her patients and also offers home visits to those unable to attend. She now has a clinic in Greenock and continues to grow her business in both locations.

If you would like more information or to make an appointment call Laura on 07772 233494 or email laura@sole-solution.co.uk ‘Your feet will thank you’

OUTLOOK

Kilmacolm Camera Club

The afternoon social group for friendship and fellowship, organised by Kilmacolm Old Kirk, meets in Kidston Hall on first and third Thursdays monthly 2pm-4pm.

In December, members enjoyed an evening of fun, frolics and a “foto-graphic” quiz. We ended the evening with a greater knowledge of photo techniques and Scottish Castles (and a greater waistline, too, speaking personally). A lighthearted end to the 2014 Season.

On Thursday 5th February we are delighted to welcome Prof Frank Walker to speak to the group. His working life as a leading architect and professor at Strathclyde University is set aside to make way for his ‘Other Life’ which tells of an ‘Adriatic Odyssey’. Please come along and enjoy this very special afternoon for OUTLOOK.

We were entertained in January by Bob Collins, of Queen’s Park Camera Club, with a talk entitled “A Digital Gathering.” Bob gave us a wealth of advice on portraits, weddings and the ever-colourful Glasgow Mela, and we all found this a fascinating and informative lecture.

Also, in defiance of the snow, wind and rain, we hosted the Simpson Memorial Competition last month. Unfortunately, the Arctic conditions defeated Cowal and Inverclyde Camera Clubs, and they were unable to reach Kilmacolm. However, a good crowd from Skelmorlie and Gryffe Camera Clubs braved the weather, and the competition went ahead, judged by Gordon McMann, of Queen’s Park Camera Club (who thought the overall standard was very high). As conditions worsened, we had to pack up early, and onlookers would have observed a “fastforward” scenario, as we whizzed through the remaining judging, snacking and packing-up (rather like a clip from an old Benny Hill sketch!). Congratulations to Cowal Camera Club, who won with some very high quality images.

Don’t let the snow defeat you. It can provide some of the best conditions for photos. Take some shots of trees, lochs or hungry robins, before it all turns to slush. Come along and see what members have done – you’ll be amazed.

Venue: Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01; Tuesday evening, time 7.30.

Contacts: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595.

Website: clikpic.com/kilcamclub/

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On Thursday 19th February we welcome Colin Fyfe of Colcom who will talk to us of the mysteries of the Internet, Computers, iPads and Tablets. It is Colin we turn to when our electronic friends give trouble, so we hope you will come along and enjoy Colin’s words of wisdom.

Plus afternoon tea, conversation and fellowship at every meeting. Everyone is most welcome.

The Cross, the Heart of Christianity Would you like to hear a clear, concise presentation of what the Cross really means to Christians, and how it can change your life?

On Friday 20th February at 7pm in Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village we’ll be showing the film “The Cross” from My Hope UK with Billy Graham.

This 45 minute DVD includes powerful up-to-date stories from two people who have experienced the impact of the cross in their lives, as well as words from Dr. Billy Graham, one of the world’s most well-known Christian evangelists.

The film will be followed by the usual refreshments, and time to talk.

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Lochwinnoch SWRI The February meeting of Lochwinnoch SWRI is on Wednesday 18th at 7.30pm in the McKillop Hall. The speaker is Mr John Gall of Browning’s the Bakers.

We look forward to members and guests.

welcoming

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

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register

Councillor Bibby told The Advertizer, “Monty has, along with Susan, been visiting both the Cherrywood Centre in Elderslie for over a year. And in the last few months the Mosswood centre in Linwood. His visits are eagerly anticipated and he is regarded as such an affectionate and friendly dog.

Residents and staff are delighted with his award.

Therapet dogs can make a huge difference to people who are suffering or recovering from illness, or those who have communication difficulties, and Monty’s calm and reassuring presence has brought about benefits which have been noted by staff.

Monty has also attended the West of Scotland University in a programme entitled Paws for Stress which is designed to help students with exam anxiety.

The use of dogs as therapets is growing across Scotland, in hospitals, hospices and care homes.

As well as helping people in these settings, it is a rewarding experience for the owners. Monty enjoys his visits as much as the people he is visiting. I would encourage dog owners to consider looking into the scheme with a view to joining the Therapet scheme.”

Further information can be obtained by contacting Canine Concern Scotland Trust by phoning 0131 553 0034 or emailadmin@ccst.freeserve.co.uk

Kilbarchan Singers’ Ceilidh Saturday 28th February, Brookfield Village Hall 7.30pm til midnight. Live ceilidh band, finger buffet, raffle BYOB Great atmosphere! Why not make up a group to come along and enjoy the fun? Tickets £10 available for any choir member or telephone Margaret 01505 324169.

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Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 2015 ART EXHIBITION The format for the Exhibition has now changed from previous years. Entry Forms and Instruction sheets are available from Calder Gallery, 8 High Street, Lochwinnoch. They can also be printed from the Arts Festival Website. www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk This year all paintings sold will be subject to 20% commission in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust, which as everyone will agree is a very worthwhile cause. All entries must be received by the end of February. Good luck everyone and we look forward to seeing some of your lovely paintings.

Concert in West Church

Monty - Golden Retriever Recognised For His Work As A Therapet Local dog owners are being encouraged to join a scheme which gives their pets the opportunity to help people suffering from stress, illness, or have special needs. Johnstone North Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch Councillor Derek Bibby and his wife Susan, are the proud owners of Monty, a 2 year old Golden Retriever, who was recently awarded a special certificate of recognition for his work as a therapet. He was nominated for his outstanding work for the award of therapet of the year by staff and residents from the Cherrywood Centre in Elderslie, and was one of 9 dogs from all over Scotland who attended the National awards ceremony hosted by Canine Concern Scotland in Edinburgh.

february 2015

A successful planning meeting and mini silent auction were held at the beginning of January. The meetings in February are “Hats I have worn”things we have been involved with that the others may not know about and Love Poems, the meeting nearest to Valentine’s Day. For information about joining the group, please visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

Tickets, priced £10, are now available for a fund raising concert ‘A Little Light Music’ on Saturday 28th March. This is a joint initiative between Kilbarchan West Church fundraisers and Glasgow Light Opera Club. Around forty singers will entertain us with songs from the musicals. A good night should be had by all. Tickets can be had by phoning 704986 or 352491.

Charity Night at the Trust Inn, Kilbarchan The charity night in the Trust Inn in Kilbarchan which took place on 22nd November was a huge success. As you may recall from an earlier edition, Carolyn Kerr and friends were either having their heads shaved or having parts of their bodies waxed to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Prior to having her head shaved Carolyn, plus another Kilbarchan resident, were donating their ponytails to the Little Princess Trust. Carolyn, who organised the event, would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the evening. Special thanks to Divah Salon in Houston for donating their time and equipment to help relieve the volunteers of leg and back hair!! Also to Paris Hair & Beauty in Renfrew for doing the hair donations and head shaving! Fraser Campbell from the Trust for supporting the event and letting us use his premises. Ross Grimes for being our DJ on the night. And not forgetting all who contributed raffle prizes, sold raffle tickets, pledged money, did fundraising and most importantly volunteered to have their ponytails donated to the Little Princess Trust, heads shaved for Cancer Research and had their legs or backs waxed for Cancer Research!!

We have managed to raise over £4,500 with some money still to come in!!

Lilias Day, Saturday 6th June Preparations are well under way for this years Lilias Day. To book your stall at one of the biggest summer fêtes in Renfrewshire come along to the Stall Holders Evening on Tuesday 10th March, 7pm, at The Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan. A 10% discount on stall prices will be offered to those booking on the night.

Do you know a young lady who would make a great Miss Lilias? If so, send your nominations to info@liliasday.co.uk. Please include a paragraph of why you think they would be ideal for the role. The role is open to girls who live or work in Kilbarchan and aged 16 over. Closing date for nominations is Tuesday 10th March.

Find out more on our Lilias Day Facebook page.

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The weather and its consequences is always a topic of conversation in Renfrewshire, and the month of January has provided much to talk about. The torrential rain and severe gales, which heralded the start of the new year, and the recent cold snap have proved particularly challenging for the Council. The flooding on the A760 near Lochwinnoch Railway station is causing difficulties for both pedestrians and car drivers alike.

I am aware that the Lomond and Clyde valley flood risk management group on which there is representation from Renfrewshire Council is looking into ways flooding issues in both Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch can be alleviated. Meantime a senior officer from Renfrewshire Council has been invited to the next meeting of Lochwinnoch Community Council to discuss the matter.

During periods of heavy rain, there is a need to keep drains and gullies clear.

Thanks to those residents in Kilbarchan who in response to my request highlighted particular trouble spots which were attended to by Renfrewshire Councils Community Services staff The recent below zero conditions have seen some disruption to weekly bin collections to parts of Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, but at the time of writing these have been dealt with quickly. If for any reason you are affected bins should be left out, as I understand that the council will aim for a ‘next day' uplift. The freezing conditions have also meant that the local 38 bus service to Kilbarchan has, on occasions, been terminating at the paper mill. As a bus user I am only too aware of the inconvenience this causes particularly for our older residents and I have taken this up with McGills.

I was delighted to learn of the MBE awarded to Allan Burns of Kilbarchan. I know that Allan has worked tirelessly for over twenty years to help young people with cerebral palsy through his setting up of the Bobath charity. Allan’s dedication has helped countless young people and their families, however Allan’s commitment has not been confined to Scotland and the UK. His fundraising efforts have taken him overseas and has helped thousands of patients in Ghana and Sierra Leone in need of reconstructive plastic surgery. Recognition of Allan’s work is both overdue and well deserved.

On the subject of honours, there will be a public meeting on Monday 9th February at 7.30pm in the Old Library Kilbarchan to look at ways in which the village can honour social justice champion and pioneer Mary Barbour who was born and spent her childhood in the village and spent her whole life fighting against poverty and for fairness.

My next surgeries will be on Saturday 7th February at 9am in the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch and at 10am in the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan. Meantime please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.co.uk or telephone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007.

Kilbarchan Church ‘Putting the Christ back into Christmas’ campaign organised by the young people in the Bible Class, in aid of the excellent charity Mary’s Meals, raised the wonderful sum of £956, including Gift aid. This allows Mary’s Meals to feed 78 children every school day for a whole year, thanks to the generosity of the church families.

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

Kilbarchan Churches

The united services continue in the village as follows:Sun 1st Feb 11am – Joint Service in the East Church Sun 8th Feb 11am – Joint Service in West Church Sun 15th Feb 11am – Joint Service in East Church with the Boys’ Brigade Sun 22nd Feb 11am – Joint Service in West Church Please join us at any of these services.

Crèche, Junior Church and FEWsion meet during the service. The Rev Stephen Smith will conduct all the services.

The Guild meets on a Tuesday afternoon at 2.30pm. On the 10th February the meeting is in the East Church Hall when we will be entertained by the group ‘Highlights.’ Guilds from the area join us that afternoon. On the 24th February we meet in the West Church Hall when we hear about the Guild Project ‘A Passage from India.’ Our Coffee Morning is on Saturday 14th February from 10.00am to 12noon. This will be held in the East Church Hall and tickets are priced £2, so come along and enjoy a chat and a cuppa with friends.

Following representations made to me by constituents in Lochwinnoch about the lack of post boxes in the village following the move of the Post Office into the Spar Store, I contacted Royal Mail late last year to articulate the feeling of the village that it simply was not acceptable for a village of some 3,000 residents like Lochwinnoch not to have at least one free standing post box. Just prior to Christmas I was delighted when Royal Mail responded and stated that they agreed and that a new post box would be installed soon. Even I was surprised when just after the New Year had broken a new post box had been erected outside the McKillop Institute, so thank you to Royal Mail for listening to the needs of Lochwinnoch.

At the last full meeting of Renfrewshire Council the Administration pushed ahead with their proposals to remove all village libraries and village community halls from council control and to put them under the jurisdiction of an arms length trust, Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. RLL had controlled Renfrewshire Council’s leisure facilities for over a decade and now its remit will be expanded to take in libraries and halls. Many constituents have asked me what impact this will have, and I am sceptical, because it will mean community facilities which have traditionally been a public service will now be run primarily as businesses, and this may lead to a reduction in facilities in our villages like Lochwinnoch and Kilbarchan.

Last, but not least, I have had the pleasure over the last month of celebrating the spirit of the radical poet, Rabbie Burns by attending many Burns Suppers in Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch. Long may his memory be revered.

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, but I am also always available to call on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8 or e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

LEAP Car Club Car Club in Kilbarchan Save money on motoring… Remove the hassle of the second car!

We sort the maintenance, road tax, servicing, cleaning, breakdown cover, insurance… you just pay as you go. Kilbarchan membership of the car club is steadily growing and we are pleased to be able to still offer discounted membership to the first 15 members for £15, a discount of £45.

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

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

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Kirk Carnival Theme 2015 The big topic at Houston and Killellan Kirk is our new extension, as it nears completion. This has given us our theme for this year’s carnival – “Grand Designs”. But please note that we’re not only thinking about buildings - hats, frocks, fancy dress and more will be welcome on the day. In fact, we’re saying to the whole village, Let Your Imagination Run Free!

We’re in the early stages of planning this year’s Kirk Carnival and, as usual, welcome advertising in the Programme from local businesses and organisations. If you would like more information, please contact Kay Farley at mikeandkayfarley@btinternet.com If you are one of the many who donate plants for the plant stall, why not give some thought to when you might start taking cuttings?

The proceeds of the 2015 Houston Kirk Carnival will go towards the funding of the new Kirk annex extension.

Houston & Crosslee SWRI At our meeting on Wednesday 11th February, Nigel Jamieson will tell us about his work in the Air Ambulance Service.

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

Visitors will be made very welcome. Please telephone Elaine Johnston on 01505 324827 or email jemjohnston@tiscali.co.uk for further information.

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston What’s on February 2015 Monday to Friday Woodlands After School 01505 615438 MONDAY Embroiderer’s Guild (weekly) 10am Rockstar Tumbling Class - R. Hart 07734 714131; Diaporama 9th - 7.30pm; Young Farmers 2nd /23rd 7.30pm; Handywives 16th - 7pm; Yoga (weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw - 01505 842877

You can call me on 01505 610018 or by e-mail at cllr.allan.noon@ renfrewshire.gov.uk or through Renfrewshire Council on 0300 3001265.

TUESDAY Paint Pot tots (weekly) - 10am D. Campbell 07789 262350; Yoga (Weekly) - 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 WEDNESDAY Camera Club (weekly) - 7.30pm; French Class - 3.15pm F. McDevitt 0141 288 6282; Galaxy Dancing (weekly) - 4pm Laureen 07989 055148; Gryffe Melody Makers - 14th/28th - 7pm; Houston Community Council -18th - 7.30pm; Councillors Surgeries -18th -6.30pm THURSDAY French Class - F. McDevitt 0141 288 6282; Crafty Friends - 5th-19th - 7.30pm; Quilting Group12th, 19th, 26th; 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.

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Grow Kilbarchan Raise Some Beds and Build Your Skills!

Grow Kilbarchan are teaming up with LEAP to run a raised beds workshop at the Grow Kilbarchan’s new community growing space. Local people are being offered the chance to come along and learn the tips and tricks of building a raised bed from old scaffolding planks, in a hands-on session, led by Anna from The Conservation Volunteers (TCV).

The local community group has been working with The Trust Inn over the last year to turn the garden at the back of the pub into a community growing space with the aim of encouraging growers and building skills.

The Garden in February

This FREE session will run from 12.30-3.30pm on Sunday 22nd February at the Trust Inn, Kilbarchan.

A light lunch will be provided.

Members and non members welcome. Please wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.

Plants for winter interest

To reserve your place, please email growkilbarchan@gmail.com or phone Susie at LEAP 01505 842530.

Interested in finding out more about Grow Kilbarchan or donating your unused gardening tools? See our website at www.growkilbarchan.org. uk

Spring is in sight. February is the month when the garden comes to life again, changing on a daily basis.

Plant bulbs – ‘in-the-green’ such as snowdrops which look beautiful around the base of shrubs and in borders and are a welcome sign that spring is on its way.

Cut off old leaves of hellebores that produce flowers from ground level to expose the flowers and remove possible foliar diseases such as hellebore leaf spot.

Continue to deadhead winter pansies and other winter bedding. To avoid disease, avoid planting pansies in the same place every year.

Top up pots and tubs with fresh compost, or remove old compost and replace if necessary.

Take care not to walk over borders or on lawns where spring bulbs and flowers will be emerging. Please keep feeding the birds.

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Scotland’s Gardens Charity Open Day Scotland’s Gardens Charity Open Day 9th February, 2pm-5pm Come along to the first garden opening of the year at Ardgowan Estate, Inverkip and enjoy the snowdrop walks, homemade teas (at small extra cost), and the joy of supporting a really worthwhile charity.

Entry to the estate (directions on the website www.scotlandsgardens.org) this year is from the lodge house only, at the Inverkip roundabout, with parking at the old stables. Disabled parking available at the house. Please see attendants for information. NB may be muddy. Entry £2, children under 12 free. In aid of Ardgowan Hospice and SG’s charities

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Soc For our first meeting of 2015, the Society held a joint meeting with members of the SWRI. Our guest speaker was Mr. Bob Carruth, a local gardener and member of the farming family from whom he caught the gardening “bug”.

Although he has been guest speaker at Rural evenings elsewhere and has entered prize winning entries into our Show, this was his first time as our speaker.

Windows on Wildlife Update Wildlife News Well we have seen our fair share of bad weather over the last few weeks and one of the questions I am often asked is how does this affect the animals in the Park? Reviewing the camera footage taken the answer is really not that much. The badgers are still out and about whether it’s windy or raining although if it does get a bit wild, they choose to stay in the sett. They are all looking really fat at the moment and if they aren’t able to forage they live off their fat reserves. It can be more difficult for owls to hunt when the weather is bad but so far we haven’t heard of any reports of underweight owls being found. As we have had a mixture of good and bad days hopefully they are finding enough to eat.

The high water levels on the other hand do have an effect on the otters. With increased volume of water it can be harder for them to find enough to eat so they spend more time hunting. It does also lead to an increase in cubs being lost by the mother as cubs are washed out the holts and road traffic accidents, as their normal routes become too difficult to transverse. However, all seems to be fine with the village’s otters at the moment.

There have been some interesting bits of footage recently with a fox being chased by a roe deer on a number of occasions and a mink in front of the otter camera playing with a food item. This behaviour is strange and I have not been able to find any references to it. The mink is seen playing with, then placing the food item on the camera. It then comes back on two more occasions to play with the item. When I went to get the camera I found a dead water shrew, a Local Biodiversity Action Plan species, on top of the camera. Shrews don’t taste nice but the behaviour exhibited by the mink is fascinating and I am awaiting a response from Oxford University to see if they have seen anything like this before. To see the footage for yourself have a look at the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvuuaDWznK8 Details can be found at 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 www.facebook. com/WindowsonwildlifeatClydeMuirshiel. Talks to groups can be arranged if you are interested in finding out more about your furry and feathered neighbours. Volunteer with WoW by emailing wow@clydemuirshiel.co.uk The Windows on Wildlife Project is part of the Semple Trail Heritage Project and is jointly funded

by LEADER and the Heritage Lottery Fund. For details call Hayley Douglas, Project Officer – CMRP tel 01505 842 882 Ex 25

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With interest in growing vegetables increasing all the time, Bob’s topic was ‘Veg in Small Gardens’. He explained how to get the best when time and space are limited. He uses grow-bags, barrels and containers and also railway sleepers to create raised beds. Drainage is important, so any lawn sacrificed for vegetables should be dug up to improve drainage and good top soil added. This, plus the addition of compost and manure along with regular watering and crop rotation will ensure a good supply of vegetables every season.

Bob also uses recycled inter-locking plastic raised beds from the recycling firm, Solway. This firm collects farm plastic and recycles it.

As he has no greenhouse, Bob buys in seedlings from dwarf varieties for his containers. He leaves plenty of space around cauliflowers and cabbages so they can grow and mature. Pre-seeded “grow mats” have also been successful.

Gardening can be a shared interest. It gets the family into the fresh air and, with a little friendly competition, everyone is involved in the magic of growing your own. Ikea offer colourful grow-bags which can encourage children to care for their own container. Bob told us, there has been a dietary breakthrough at home: his children - who refuse frozen peas - are now happy to eat the freshly picked ones they have grown and nurtured themselves, often straight from the plant and with the pod.

Bob recommends tubs for carrots, potatoes and leeks. ‘Red Rooster’ and strangely shaped ‘Pink Fir Apple’ potatoes have been successful - the latter, a replacement item, had indeed a potato flavour and been tasty. ‘Musselburgh’ is a leek which does well here, and also ‘Boltardy’, a hardy variety of beetroot. Bob has tried over-wintering vegetables in his garage; hanging shallots and onions tied into tights but the more reliable answer is to freeze and pickle.

Pests appear in container gardening too, but carrots grown in tubs will be missed by carrot fly which hover at a lower height. Once Clubroot has been introduced it is impossible to eradicate but Bob is hopeful that new, disease-resistant varieties of Brussel sprouts and red cabbage will reduce this problem.

2014 was a bumper year in the garden and Bob produced over 21 different tree and soft fruits, legume and brassica vegetables and mixed salads. He left us enthused with what can be grown in our Bridge of Weir gardens, looking forward to Spring and Summer and hoping for another great year’s gardening.

The next Meeting will take place in The Legion on Thursday 12th February when nurseryman Douglas Boatman will give us hints on how to get the best from Annuals.

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CMRP Regional Park Round Up Tartan Walk The annual tartan walk is again returning to Castle Semple! Join people from the Renfrewshire Feeling Fitter network as they stroll around the village of Lochwinnoch and sing a few verses of some good Scottish tunes!

Walk leaves the Centre at 11am on Friday 13th February.

Pedal the Park Plans are beginning to take shape with Ride 63 for Pedal the Park 2015!

This highlight of this cycling festival will be a 60km sportive! Sign up now via British Cycling Events. Also on the day we will have family friendly rides, a hand biking ride, mountain biking route, kit demos and event village with representatives from all over. Not into cycling? Be a volunteer marshal instead!

Race 2 the games Legacy Dates are set for the Scottish Multi-Class Access Regatta – Sat 20th and Sun 21st June with training days running on the Thurs 18th and Fri 19th June. Please get in touch if you can help with sponsorship or organising either event.

Stargazing Returns to Muirshiel Centre The next in our successful run of stargazing evenings takes place on Friday 13th February. Please book on 01505 842 882 Ex20 as event can be relocated from Muirshiel Centre to Castle Semple Centre at short notice due to weather conditions affecting the road.

Plan Ahead!

Are you thinking ahead to holiday activities already? Why not plan in some multi activity courses for the kids at Castle Semple at Easter? Courses run 6th - 10th & 13th – 17th and it’s a great way to increase your child’s water confidence by learning new skills and making new friends!

Duke of Edinburgh Programmes

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society

Clyde Muirshiel is an approved activity provider to deliver Duke of Edinburgh programmes. We’re currently working on new opportunities for 14 – 25 year olds, no matter what their ability, to do their Duke of Edinburgh at Clyde Muirshiel. There are new offerings contributing mainly to the skill, physical and expedition sections of the award. Look on our website for details.

Ride 63 Club News & Ride Out Info!

The February lecture of the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society will be presented on Wednesday 18th February at 7.30pm. In Kilmacolm Community Centre. Our speaker is the renowned Ian Craig, President of Glasgow Beekeeping Association. Ian is a Renfrewshire man but is known world-wide for his devotion to Beekeeping. Please come along, bring your friends, and enjoy refreshments after the lecture.

A Community Cycle Group ‘Ride 63’ is up and running, next ride out on February 26th. More info on when they’re going out on their Facebook. Email the Secretary at ridesixtythree@ gmail.com to become a member or email the Park at routes@ clydemuirshiel.co.uk for more information.

On 18th March our Spring lecture will be presented by Mr Ian McCrorie, with stories and pictures of his favourite topic - the history of the West Highland steamers, the Clyde steamers, and the Waverley paddlesteamer. Ian is well known to many residents of Inverclyde, retired teacher, organist, choirmaster, raconteur, Ian is a much loved personality of the West of Scotland.

Come along and enjoy a very special evening.

Plus the Spring Bulb competition - get the bulbs warmed up and ready to burst into Spring flower in time to win the coveted Jimmy Whittet trophy.

Any further information, telephone Jill Russell on 01505 872393.

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

Regular Events Mondays (but not public holidays) - Lochwinnoch Community Walks meet 10.30am at The Cross, Lochwinnoch.

Weekly Volunteer Groups - Newcomers always welcome!

Thursdays Castle Semple Conservation Volunteers, Adult group, from 12.30pm - 3.30pm.

Saturdays Greenock Cut Conservation Volunteers, Adult group, 10.30am - 2.30pm.

Sundays Castle Semple Young Volunteers, 12-18 yr olds, 10am - 12noon.

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RSPB Despite the dull winter weather, there is plenty of exciting wildlife to be explored here at RSPB Lochwinnoch! A recent highlight has been sightings of scaup on the reserve. These are beautiful diving ducks, only a handful of which breed in the UK each winter – making them one of the UK’s rarest breeding ducks! The Barr Loch has also continued to provide fantastic displays of wintering waterfowl – with the ongoing presence of large numbers of coot, wigeon and goldeneye to be seen; as well as several shoveler, great crested grebe, tufted duck, and many others.

For those keen to learn more about the birds found on the reserve, we will be offering the chance to do so as part of our Wetland Guided Walk on Sunday 8th February, 12noon-2pm. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the Lochwinnoch reserve and learn more about nature, whether you have a general interest in wildlife or want to practice your birdwatching skills! Please book in advance for this event. Cost: Adults: £5 or £3 for RSPB members, Children: £3 or £2 for Wildlife Explorers With spring in mind – and to celebrate National Nest Box Week – we will be holding a ‘Build a Bird a Home’ event on Saturday 21st February. This will be a fun opportunity to build and decorate your own nest box, just in time for the spring breeding season! This event will run 11am-4pm. Please contact the reserve to book a time slot (first slot is 11am & last is 3pm). Cost is £8 or £6 for RSPB members – this includes a nest box to take home.

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Pet Blog

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Lamont City Farm

by PetVets

A Pets’ Guide to Poisons There are lots of common plants, chemicals and drugs that can be poisonous to our pets. Poisons can affect the body by direct contact, inhalation or ingestion.

Some poisons require urgent veterinary attention, including:

Contact poisons: • Tar • Petroleum products • Household chemicals • Paint/paint remover • Gasoline • Flea and tick medication (if overdosed or if dog products used on cats)

Inhaled poisons: • Smoke • Insecticides • Household chemicals

Ingested poisons: • Household and garden chemicals • Petroleum products • Antifreeze • Drugs/medications (human/ pet) • Batteries • Plants (e.g. ivy, foxglove, lilies, acorns, daffodils, tulips) • Food items (e.g. chocolate, onions, garlic, raisins, grapes, caffeine, alcohol) Symptoms of poisoning can be very varied and depend on the route of exposure and the type of poison involved. If you suspect your pet has had access to a potentially poisonous product and seems unwell in any way you should contact your veterinary practice immediately. It is important to give your vet as much information about the suspected poison as possible, including the name, strength, amount ingested and the time of ingestion.

Diagnosis can usually only be made if you have seen a specific poison being ingested. It is not possible to test for all toxins. Some tests may be performed to assess your pets’ health and organ function post ingestion, and these tests may need to be repeated at specific time periods to check for ongoing damage.

If the specific poison is known an antidote to the poison may be available. If there is no antidote or the specific poison is not known then treatment consists of treating the symptoms observed and providing supportive care to maintain organ function while the body eliminates the poison. Unfortunately some poisons can be fatal despite treatment. It is therefore important to keep your home and garden as “pet friendly” as possible to limit access to potential poisons.

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Our Farm Lamont City Farm is a vibrant community and animal welfare project located in Erskine, Renfrewshire. At Lamont Farm, you can meet a wide variety of animals, including ducks, hens, horses and goats. We also have a reptile room with some special reptiles for you to come and meet! We try our best to rescue and rehome as many animals as we can. If we cannot find a suitable forever home for our furry friends they will continue to live with us therefore there’s always new furrys for you to meet. This means we have an ever growing family of new and different animals. We actively promote animal welfare and advise and educate people, where we can, in animal care and husbandry We have a tea room and shop for your convenience, please feel free to use sit in for a nice place to eat a packed lunch or have a coffee. We sell a variety of snacks, crisps, sweets, cans of fizzy drinks, kiddy drinks and for the adults, tea and coffee. We also sell fresh free range eggs from a local supplier at £2.80 for a dozen.

Unfortunately, no animals are allowed in the tea room for hygiene reasons.

Lamont Gardens Adjoining the farm, we have an attached set of well-tended allotments. These are exceedingly popular amongst the Erskine community and beyond. The allotments are exceptionally beautiful during the summer please feel free to come and view, however we do respectful ask that you stay on the paths and don’t disturb the allotments as they are privately maintained, thank you for your co-operation. If you are interested in letting a allotment please contact the farm and we can put your name down on our waiting list.

Opening Times and Admission Our farm opens 7 days a week, 10.30am to 4.30pm Apr -Sept and 11am to 3.30pm Oct- March Admission is free, but we encourage donations to help us care for our animals. We have a collection box situated at the farm gate and beside our tearoom entrance. For larger donations, wills and legacies, please discuss with the farm manager. We also have a amazon wishlist, if you would like to donate any of the items on it to us just go into the list, choose the item, order and pay for it and it will be delivered direct to us.

We also accept donations of equipment (for instance, we’re currently on the lookout for decent yard brushes and wheelbarrows and tools) but again, please speak to the farm manager if you are able to donate. We thank you all for your years of generosity.

Wildlife Crime Strathclyde Police has a team of Wildlife Crime Officers who, as part of their normal policing duties, specialise in investigating wildlife-related crimes. 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.

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Re-homing Pets Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets?

Mary - approx 1 year old Tabby Mary could possibly be homed with dogs and can be homed with children, but no other cats. She is very playful and does like to play around and have fun.

Miss Sixty - Approx 1 year old Tabby Miss Sixty would like a garden and could possibly live with dogs, but no other cats and older children.

Contact the centre for more details: Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD Telephone 0141 779 3341

Rex - Age: 8 years male Terrier Reference: 102195 Rex is a nice boy who arrived in our care through no fault of his own. Rex is part of a pair with his friend Shandy and they need to be rehomed together as they thrive on each other’s company.

He is a fun older boy who is not looking for much - just someone to love and care for him. Rex would thrive on plenty of attention and regular exercise. He would suit a home without young children.

Cleo - Age: 12-14 years female Jack Russell Terrier - Reference: 287177 Cleo is a nice older girl who arrived in our care through no fault of her own and is now looking for a new home to call her own. All she wants is to potter around at her own pace and curl up in a nice warm bed. Cleo would also enjoy short regular walks. Older children would be preferable.

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

Missing Cat Gizmo (Gizzy) is a one year old rag-doll cross with a very friendly nature. She hasn’t been seen since 3pm on Sunday 14th December when she was at home in Station Road, Kilbarchan.

We have had a number of sightings of a cat matching her description in the Dalhousie Road, Ramsay Crescent, Ladysmith Avenue area of Kilbarchan although we haven’t been able to find this cat ourselves to confirm if it is actually her.

Please call with ANY information - 07950 703768 or email cmcc2206@aol.com

Fun Dog Show Pets Paradise are running a fun dog show with a Valentine Theme on Wednesday 11th February at the Scout Hall on Finnart Street Greenock at 8pm.

There will be lots of pampering and lots of fun. Proceeds going to a named charity and a dog training club.

Theo - 5-7 year old Crossbreed Theo is a handsome chap who is a shy boy when he first meets new people. Once he gets to know you he loves to play with squeaky toys. Theo can live with children who are 16 years old or over and needs his own secure garden to have a potter in where its nice and quiet. Theo is ok with quiet dogs and would benefit from someone who has owned dogs previously to help him settle. Theo needs a home who is around most of the day to help with his training. Theo needs several meets at the centre to build a relationship before going to his new home.

Alfie - a 2-5 year old Crossbreed Alfie is a handsome chap who loves his walks and playing games. His favourite is fetch. Alfie can live with children who are 16 years old or over and needs his own secure garden. Someone who has owned dogs before would benefit him and help him settle and help with his positive training. Alfie needs a few meets at the centre to build a relationship before going to his new home.

Inviting the community to get behind this event and come with your dogs and your kids and have a ball.

Surprise guests will also be there.

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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Kilmacolm Primary Port Glasgow High School Band entertained us with a musical showcase of Christmas music.

Christmas Service - P7 planned and organised our whole school community Christmas service. It was a beautiful celebration of Christmas and portrayed the real meaning of Christmas in an interactive and fun way.

They were able to confidently engage their audience by using their voice and of course a little bit of drama.

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Our P4 Vikings are in full swing learning about raiding and trading. They are also incredibly busy with our poem for the Greenock Festival and getting quite excited about it. They are continuing to record the temperature and rainfall levels each day. We now realise that we live in a wet country!

REGULAR

groups

every Monday Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers

McKillop Hall. 9.30am-11.30am £2/

family fee includes tea & children’s snacks.

St Columba Playgroup

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

P5 are hard at work practising our group verse poem for the Inverclyde Music Festival. We are about to start a new historical topic, all about The Scottish Wars of Independence where they will discover how past events or the actions of individuals or groups have shaped Scottish society. Furthermore, they will examine both primary and secondary sources to research the past and interpret this historical evidence to build a picture of Scotland’s heritage.

Classes - Primary 1 are learning about island life through their reading of Katie Morag Stories. Furthermore, through investigating this Scottish themed text they are developing their awareness of Scotland and their place in it. They will gain an appreciation of interesting features of their local environment and the world around them. Our confident P1’s are also preparing for the Inverclyde Music Festival where they will be performing ‘This Old Man.’ Our inquisitive Primary 2’s have been investigating owls as well as reading the super novel, The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark. They have also been busy learning and rehearsing their singing action song, ‘When Goldilocks Went to the House of The Bears’ which they will perform beautifully at the Inverclyde Music Festival.

Our enthusiastic P3 are looking forward to learning all about the Romans and how they lived. These creative and enterprising pupils are going to plan a Roman Feast that will showcase their learning.

As Titanic sinks to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean P7 are looking forward to their new topic about Europe.

Through this topic they will explore their own local area and research other countries in Europe. They will use their creativity to present information on different places to live, work and relax and identify interesting places to visit.

P7 are just beginning a new novel called ‘Goodnight Mister Tom.’ They will be developing literacy skills such as analysing, summarizing, prediction, skimming and scanning and understanding how characters are developed by writers through the exploration of this novel.

Snow Day - We analysed snowflakes and appreciated their beauty and individuality. We investigated the effect of salt on snow by setting up experiments in our playground and reflected on the results. As the snow settled, we decided to be creative and take part in some snow painting.

Langbank Playgroup Spending time with friends is one of the best bits about coming to Playgroup and sharing snack is definitely fun as our picture shows. We talk about all sorts of things over snack such as birthdays, holidays and favourite toys so it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn social and conversational skills. And when you have 16 children, that’s a lot of chat! We are looking forward to some spring weather too Playgroup so that we can get outside to the park and have a good run around.

In the meantime, there are lots of exciting activities to share in the hall and we are busy every week with the paints, playdough, trains, tunnels and tents plus there is always a quiet book corner. Families from Langbank and the surrounding area are very welcome with children accepted from 2.5yrs to school age.

For more information, contact our Chair, Jacqueline on 01475 540728.

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Baby Social

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Vill. 11am Meet mums, drink coffee & eat cake.

St Columba Playgroup

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Wednesday 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

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Thursday Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

St Columba Playgroup

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Friday 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.

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Howwood Babies & Toddlers As we mentioned in the January issue, 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 coming months. 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.

Creation Station will be running fun arts and crafts sessions on Friday 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th February 2015. Then on Friday 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th of March 2015, Jiggy Wrigglers will be running award winning musical activity sessions. Places are limited for both groups so if you are interested please book using the details below.

The sessions are free (a small donation of £1 towards running the group would be appreciated) and open to everyone, and we would be delighted to welcome new children and their grown-ups!

For more information and to book your place, please contact howwoodtoddlers@ hotmail.com or come along to our regular Monday group, 10am-12noon at Howwood Parish Church Hall. All are welcome to join our regular Monday group, which is £1 per child and snacks and refreshments are provided to both children and their grown-ups.

Duchal Nursery School We’ve had a great start to the year beginning our Winter and Winter Sports project – especially as we’ve experienced rather a lot of winter weather in the last few weeks – snow, rain, and wind!!! We’ve created a fantastic frieze that is on the wall depicting all that Winter entails!

We are looking forward to learning about “People that Help Us” with visits from police, doctors, nurses, dentists and a vet!!! We will be creating our own walkie talkies and emergency vehicles for our own Duchal Rescue Centre!!

Not wanting to miss out we had our own children’s ceilidh, full of fun dancing at the nursery while the parents enjoyed the, now annual, Duchal Ceilidh!

New Entries to Duchal: We are now beginning to offer places for the new intake for August 2015.

If your child will be of nursery age after the summer and you are looking at your pre school options, please do get in touch to have an informal look around. With purpose built facilities and a dedicated caring staff, Duchal nursery, set within the grounds of Birkmyre Park in Kilmacolm, is a fantastic place to begin your child’s pre-school education. Please take a look at our website for more information – www.duchal.com 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

Kilbarchan East Tots Club Kilbarchan East Tots’ Club continues to be very busy on Monday mornings from 9.15am11.30am in the East church hall. The club is run by a group of volunteers, all members of the East church and we have been delighted to welcome tots with accompanying adults from Kilbarchan and the surrounding area.

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Woodlands Day Nursery Woodlands Babies have been learning about shapes this month whilst having lots of fun using them to print, making collages and playing with the shape sorters.

They have also been enjoying playing with shaving foam which is very good for sensory play as they have fun mark making, feeling the texture and smelling the fragrance.

This month, both children and staff were celebrating, Robert Burns and Valentine’s Day as well as, further developing their Discovery Area which the babies love exploring different sizes, noises, shapes and textures.

The Tweenies (2-3 year olds) have been learning about ‘People who help us’ and also safety and wellbeing. They are looking forward to a visit from the lovely people from Childsmile, Scotland who, have lots of fun information on keeping our smiles lovely and white. They have also been listening to stories about ‘Fireman Sam’ who is a hero next door! The Tweenies have also been dressing up as paramedics, doctors and lollypop people in their daily role play.

The Rising 5’s (3-5 year olds) have been learning all about Scotland through transforming the role play area into a Scottish Tourist Information Centre where they are learning about places to visit, activities, animals, traditional clothes and dances. The children are excited about tasting Scottish foods and making the most of the beautiful Scottish weather. The Butterfly group have registered for school and are preparing to start Primary 1 after the Summer holidays.

The children in Out of School Care are enjoying their new house corner and dressing up clothes which they are having a fantastic time using their imaginations to become cowboys, astronauts, nurses, surgeons and superheroes.

They have also been entertaining themselves and continuing to develop friendships by playing some new and old traditional board games which they love.

Both staff and children have been practicing some Scottish songs and poems to celebrate Robert Burn’s Day.

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Young Musician of the Year

St Fillan’s Primary School

The pupils of Gryffe High put in months of practice to ensure that they were able to provide a very high standard of music for the annual prestigious Young Musician of the Year Competition which was held in the school theatre.

The Christmas Fayre was very successful and well attended. Thank you to all who helped set up, run stalls and clear up. Also, a big thank you to Santa and his very able helpers for coming along at such a busy time of year.

Each and every performance was really impressive. The musical talents were not only enjoyed by pupils, relatives, friends and staff but also by a large group of young pupils from Houston Primary.

The competition is divided into three sections Junior, Intermediate and Senior.

All of the pupils performing are already Finalists as they have progressed through the qualifying rounds. There was a lovely range of music performed on piano, drums, flute, clarinet and voice. Performances on the bagpipes also added to the evening.

As well as working to perfect their pieces and playing to a filled theatre, the pupils benefit from the adjudication of Mr David Murray.

Mr. Murray provides the pupils with a very detailed and considered assessment of their performance on the night. This is always in the form of constructive comments and is delivered in a warm, well spirited manner and always with a smile and words of encouragement and humour! ‘Is your triplet actually a triplet or is it 2 semiquavers and a quaver?!’ Mr Murray complimented the school in his introduction by saying that the form of the competition was rare in schools and that this was a tribute to the continuing quality of music at Gryffe.

Performers were introduced by Head Boy Thomas Lightbody and Depute Head boy Matthew Dickie. Members of the S6 Pupil Management Group helped with welcoming guests and providing refreshments at interval.

Mr. Johnson thanked the pupils, Mr Murray and the music department for a fantastic evening.

Our congratulations goes to ALL of the finalists for achieving such a high standard.

The whole school will celebrate Ash Wednesday on Wednesday 18th February.

Children in Primary 5-7 will enjoy a production and workshop called ‘I Am Me’ from the PACE Theatre in February.

Fire Safety talks will be held in school for children in Primary 6 at the beginning of February.

The Rights Respecting Committee will lead our fundraising efforts for UNCIEF Day for Change on Thursday 5th February. The theme this year is Protecting children in emergencies. All children are asked to dress up as an emergency services hero in exchange for a donation. We will also have a fun run in the school.

Primary 6 will begin a block of tennis sessions with Strathgryffe Tennis Club after the February holiday.

Throughout February and March, the whole school will be learning about STEM - Sciences, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics. Each class will focus on a specific aspect of learning and we will invite our families into school to share our learning.

Children from local nurseries will join us in school over the coming weeks to participate in Art and Design activities, led by Mrs McKay. During the first half of this term, all classes will be learning more about Scots language and Scottish culture. We will also celebrate the birthday of Robert Burns, during an assembly.

Children from local nurseries will join us in school over the coming weeks to participate in Art and Design activities, led by Mrs McKay. P7 pupils will enjoy two sessions exploring the works of Robert Burns. They will then put on a small performance for children from P1-6.

During the first half of this term, all classes will be learning more about Scots language and Scottish culture. We will also celebrate the birthday of Robert Burns, during an assembly.

Please be aware that during the winter months, pavements around the school may be slippery. The playground areas could also be icy. Everyone is asked to take extra care and use the safest routes and those which have been gritted. Main walking routes/pathways in and out of the building will be treated with grit.

Well done to winners:Junior – Emily Irving S2 – ‘Colour My World’ by Chicago on drums.

Intermediate – Jasmine Galvin S3 - ‘Canzonetta’ by Erna Dohnanyi on piano Senior – Ben Harper S6 – ‘Nocturne in C# Minor’ by Chopin on piano

Gryffe High School - Health, Food and Technology Awards REHIS Awards S3 pupils celebrate success with Royal Environmental Health Institute in Scotland Award

Gryffe High School, Health, Food & Technology Department were delighted this week when 30 third year pupils from three classes were presented with their certificates for successfully completing and passing the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) ‘Elementary Food Hygiene Course’. Certificates were presented by Head Teacher Mr Colin Johnson and Depute Head Mr Peter Holsgrove.

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Kilbarchan Community Nursery The children are all now back again after the Christmas and New Year break and ready for the new term.

In January we joined with the Primary 1 children from Kilbarchan Primary for ‘Money week’.

The nursery children visited P1 and took part in lots of interesting activities to learn about the different coins and how money is used. They enjoyed the role play shop and sorting the different coins as well as making money pictures using coins and stampers.

The primary school children visited the nursery where they were able to buy a book from our weekly book sale (part of our Eco school programme).

They also played games on the Smartboard to help them to learn about sorting and counting coins together.

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St Columba School News Early Years Learning St Columba’s is delighted to announce our new Early Years’ provision for children aged 3 & 4 years, which will begin in August 2015. Fun, confidence and a sense of security are at the heart of everything we do, but our teacher-led experience also ensures that children benefit from a tailor-made programme that suits their personal needs and are wellprepared for the transition to Junior 1. The core programme will take place in the morning with the option to stay for the afternoon session. Our flexible wraparound provision means that care is available from 7.45am – 6pm.

We believe that this new service will support children’s earliest School experiences, nurture their love of learning and set the groundwork for his/her future development. If you would like to find out more about how your child will benefit, please call us on 01505 872768. We’d love to show you what makes St Columba’s so special.

Creative Communities Join us for two fabulous events.

Saturday 7th February, 2pm-3.30pm (Kilmacolm Library) A workshop for 8-11 year olds with EB Colin around her novel ‘Pyrate Boy’.

Wednesday 4th March, 7pm-8.30pm (Kilmacolm Library) A Conversation with Tony Black about his novel ‘The Last Tiger’. Both events are free, but spaces are limited. Contact kzhang@st-columbas.org to book.

St Columba Church Playgroup and Toddlers Having fun with the toys is what it’s all about and the Happy Street is always a favourite. We have a wide variety of resources and there is generally something to suit everyone from the cars and garage to house corner, not forgetting the painting, puzzles, books and a wonderful climbing frame. We wish our colleague, Mrs Liz Gailey, the best of luck as she moves on from Playgroup to resume her nursing career and give her huge thanks for all her efforts for the Group over many years. We would like to welcome a new face, Mrs Samantha Gallagher-Alagha, who will be joining us and look forward to her new contributions. We now have a waiting list for places in August so please contact Melanie our Playgroup Secretary for more information 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, we always look forward to welcoming new faces to the group so please contact our Toddler secretary Beth for more information on thebbles@hotmail.com Our current committee are now into their 3rd year of working together but legally have to stand down this summer therefore we are looking for new committee members to join and work alongside the current committee with a view to taking over especially for the roles of Chairperson and Treasurer.

Community groups like this cannot run without a committee so we urgently need people to volunteer. Please contact stcolumbachurchplaygroup@ gmail.com for more information.

This year we are planning a Spring Coffee Morning on Saturday 21st March so keep the date free and look out for more information to follow.

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Nomad Music Tuition Nomad Music is a network of local music tutors who strive to offer a fun, friendly and exciting musical learning experience.

At our weekly Saturday Rock Club, held at Kilbarchan East Church, we offer group lessons on guitar, bass, piano and keyboard. In addition, there is the opportunity to play some awesome games and chill out in our back stage area, where there is a pool table, table tennis table and much more. If wished, a pupil can choose to work towards playing their instrument as part of a band, where our tutors are on hand to offer guidance and advice. From beginners to those who have been learning for some time, we can tailor to each pupil’s individual needs. Even if tuition is received from elsewhere, we can offer a great additional musical learning experience to help further develop their musical skills. Sessions for those in P1 - P7 run from 12 - 2:30 pm and sessions for those in S1 - S4 run from 2:30 - 5 pm. Also, look out for our upcoming Easter Holiday Rock Club - the most exciting holiday club in Renfrewshire!

Private tuition in the comfort of your own home is also available on guitar, piano and drums. From age 6 - 106, it is never too late to learn! Whether you wish to learn for accredited examinations or if just for fun, we can tailor lessons to suit your individual needs.

For further details on what we can offer please visit www.nomadmusicschool. co.uk

Houston United Football Club We are looking for new players for the 2004 Year Team.

We train Mondays & Wednesdays, games on Saturday Mornings.

If interested please contact: John Ferguson tel: 07966 924349.

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Kilmacolm Curling Club Kilmacolm Curling Club held its annual Invitation Bonspiel at Greenacres on 8th December 2014, when teams from Ardgowan, Bearsden, Bridge of Weir and Erskine joined us for a very entertaining evening of curling.

Everyone had the opportunity to meet friends old and new, as the clubs were mixed in different teams, and the evening was rounded off by a very convivial supper. If you are interested in curling with us please email our Curling Secretary at mike.jefferis@ talk21.com

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

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, 7.30pm

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 7.15pm

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club

The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan 9pm-10.30pm Visit www.strathgryffe.org for details.

The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands Primary 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

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

every Wednesday

Sporting Blog

you lose water content and muscle mass… not fat mass that everyone wants to lose; even if you are skinny and want to get toned. You have to

by Lesley Handley reduce the fat tissue to show the muscles. Don’t think of any change being a Already we are heading into February, and maybe, like me, 2/4/6 week plan… you should be thinking months! Small you have made the decision to stop staring at a reflection changes and progression! in the mirror of someone you may not be 100% happy with Keep A Record (maybe you are happy and that’s great!).

Recently a client of mine was very surprised to hear I keep So what have you done? a record of their sessions, achievements, weights they For me, I’m training 3 times a week, cut the rubbish out of have lifted, best times etc. I have notepads filled with notes my diet, invested in a ‘Nutribullet’ and entered the Kiltwalk that probably only I can understand; but how else can you (Sunday 12th April - www.thekiltwalk.co.uk). track progression (unless you have an amazing memory)?

For others, finding your feet in the health/fitness world is not Can you really remember what weight you lifted 5 months always easy; it can be intimidating with a vast amount of ago? information that can often be contradictory. I’m going to give Don’t Be Intimidated some advice that might make you more successful with your Gyms can be an intimidating place. Personal Trainers can venture. seem intimidating. What you have to remember is that Nothing Really Worth Having Comes Quickly & Easily everyone in the gym was a ‘gym newbie’ at some point.

It is maybe a bit extreme, but true. Think about it… good Nobody is going to stare at you as nobody expects anything career, children, money, dream house, expensive car! of you. Everyone else in there was ‘new’ at some point and Everything often takes a lot of effort, commitment and most just normal people that might have a few weeks/months/ years ahead of you. importantly TIME. It’s Not Going To Be A Quick Fix Quick fix diets and exercise programmes do not work!! A quick fix diet that offers you great weight loss will only help

46-47 SPORTS_245_FEB15.ind.indd 46

Let me know what you have done so far in 2015, regardless of how big or small it is… email me at Lesley_personal_ trainer@hotmail.co.uk.

Greenock Hockey Club

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

Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005

Callanetics

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

every Thursday Kilbarchan Athletic Club 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

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

Lesley

22/01/2015 12:22:57

R

ts

www.advertizer.co.uk

february 2015

47 47

In June of this year, I was invited by Dr Mike Cummings to spend the day at the Royal London Hospital in his specialist Medical Acupuncture Clinic.

Dr Cummings receives referrals from across London and is the head of the “British Medical Acupuncture Association”.

I had a really interesting day watching him in practice. He treats a variety of patients with many different musculo-skeletal problems, what was most striking about my visit was the fact that he almost exclusively uses electro-acupuncture in his clinic to treat most conditions.

Electro-acupuncture is a bit like a TENS machine attached to the acupuncture needle, but with more profound effects on pain. This is because it stimulates around the point of the needle, much closer to the pain nerves. The patient is in complete control of the strength of the impulse which can feel like a small “buzz” around the needle.

I’ve since attended Dr Cummings electro-acupuncture course and been using it in the Clinic with really good results treating musculo-skeletal complaints such as knee, shoulder and hip pain.

Please give me a call if you’d like to discuss whether your problem might be amenable to this treatment.

NEW CITY CENTRE CLINIC Meanwhile we’re seeing more patients travelling some distance to see us in Paisley, so when the opportunity to set up in Glasgow arose we decided to go for it! We open a New City Centre clinic in January right outside Central Station in Glasgow, it couldn’t be more accessible and to celebrate were offering a free assessment and initial treatment from either Simeon or I in the Glasgow clinic, just quote “NEW CITY 1” when you call.

Simeon currently works in central London during the week as Head of Clinical Education at the British School of Osteopathy. Having been qualified for 20 years, he has worked in practice and osteopathic education in the UK and overseas and is a very experienced osteopath. I worked as a nurse and specialized in spinal medicine for 10 years before becoming an Osteopath 18 years ago. We both see patients from 0 years to 93 years (our oldest patient just now) and are happy to discuss any queries regarding treatment you may have. Just give us a call on 0141 887 3734 to make appointments for either Linwood or Glasgow and please use, or give the code to a friend to come and see us in our new clinic.

Ranfurly Castle Golf Club Ladies The ladies of Ranfurly Castle held their annual Christmas lunch on Wednesday 10th December with 41 ladies attending and enjoying the festive occasion.

It had been the intention to play a fun competition over 9 holes, but unfortunately the weather prevented this from taking place. A brain taxing Quiz took place instead which kept the ladies guessing over the answers. Festive dress was compulsory and quite a bit of thought had been put into many of the outfits. The eventual winner was Morven Mcleod dressed as one of Santa’s little Helpers!

The children’s Christmas Party was held at the club on Saturday 6th December with 30 youngsters attending to enjoy the games, food and of course a visit from Santa. He was assisted by a few of his Elves – Brian McLaughlin, Rory McAllister and friends – who gave out some lovely presents to all those who had been well behaved throughout the year!

Exciting Membership Opportunities!

No Joining Fee! All categories!

Family friendly club!

Contact the secretary for details on 01505 612609 or email secretary@ ranfurlycastle.co.uk Watch this space!

46-47 SPORTS_245_FEB15.ind.indd 47

Castle Semple Sailing Club Before Christmas around a dozen of us went for our now annual festive walk (in the rain ............although it was not as wet as forecast predicted). However four hardy soles decided that life out on the water looked more interesting with some gusty conditions. On our return to the warmth of the clubhouse some 2 hours later it transpired that the “Mighty Vision” had not been so mighty and had a close encounter with some mud at the bottom of the loch, of which most of us have been familiar with at some time or another.

The wettest part of the walk was on the descent from the Folly when the wind battered our faces with freezing rain. However, once we were all back and dried out and heated with some delicious soup and other refreshments we felt it had all been worthwhile.

Many thanks to Morag (and George) for organising everything.

Since the new year early January sailing has been limited by the weather , however we hope as always to run our “frost bite series” in mid February over 4 Sundays. Curiously, the sailing conditions are often better at the start of the series than by Mid March.

Our sailing calendar has yet to be confirmed but we are planning an open day/come and try in March so if you are interested in coming along please contact us via our website : www.castlesemplesc.co.uk.

22/01/2015 12:22:38

48

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TUITION Dr. Fraser Scott BA(Hons) BSc(Hons) MSci(Hons) PhD CBiol MSB MRSC MInstP MIMA. Maths, Chemistry, Physics and Biology Tuition. Email: fraser.j.scott@strath.ac.uk

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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

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

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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Fri 13th Feb

MARCH ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th Feb • Delivery: 27th Feb • APRIL ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th Mar • Delivery: 27th Mar LOCAL INFORMATION community council Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm www.bishoptoncouncil.com BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 1st Tues at 7pm. Next meetings: 03 Feb, 03 Mar, 07 Apr, 05 May, 02 Jun www.bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm in February, April, June, August, October and December on 2nd Thursday of the month.

HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wed at 7.30pm www. houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.co.uk HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. www. howwood.com/community-council.php KILBARCHAN: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. www. kilbarchan.info/community_council.html KILMACOLM & QUARRIERS: Last Tues at 7.30pm, Kilmacolm Cargill Centre (NB: No meetings: July or Dec) www.kilmacolmcc.co.uk LANGBANK: Church Hall: 2nd Wed at 7.30pm LOCHWINNOCH: Parish Church: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

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

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. The dates of prayers for local roads are as follows: 01 Feb - Morrison Pl, 08 Feb - Morton Ter, 15 Feb Neva Pl, 22 Feb - Newton Pl, 01 Mar - North View Rd. For further information, to ask for special prayers or in pastoral emergency. Please 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 a preserver of the sanctity of thy pledge.” 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. 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.

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.

february 2015

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

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

St Columba Church of Scotland: ( 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.

Buddhist meetings: Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin. Phone Margaret on 01505 871343

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.

SITUATIONS VACANT

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.

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• 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.

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Please add your community hall details to our list email to info@advertizer.co.uk

Editorial throughout The Gryffe Advertizer:

local

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.

councillors

RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

Ward 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie & Howwood: Cllrs John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and Iain McMillan

49 49

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 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

48-51 CLASSIFIED_245_FEB15.ind.indd 49

21/01/2015 16:45:29

50

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

Items For Sale Baby Equipment Clippasafe Walking Harness and Reins Pink (3 pairs) and Clippasafe Wrist Link Pink, all as new, £2 each. Tel: 01505 874870.

Stair gate Lindam white, fits opening from 75 cm - 100 cm, wall mounted VGC £20. Tel: 01505 874870.

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

Exc cond. £20. Tel: 01505 874870.

Mothercare car seat universal 0-13 kg/9-18 kg. £10. Tel: 01505 874870.

WeeRide Classic Front Mounted Children’s Safest Bike Seat, Ages 1-4, VGC x 2, bought for £90 sell for £40 each. Tel: 01505 874870.

Trikes unisex colours, good cond, £15 (have two different ones).

Tel: 01505 874870.

Britax Car Seats black forward facing x 2, one with 5 point harness, 15-36 kg, good cond. £20 each. Tel: 01505 874870.

Maxi Cosi “Tobi” car seat (x2) for sale. Suits child aged 9months - 3yrs. All black or black and dark blue. Both good cond.

Pet & Smoke free home. Situ in Houston. £60 each or £100 for both. Tel: 07793 738845.

Silvercross 3D pram system and compatible Ventura Plus baby car seat. Neutral plain black.

Excellent used condition. With all original accessories and instructions. £100. Tel: 07772 173910.

Medela Swing breastpump. Battery operated and USA plug.

Includes all original accessories and instructions. Exc used cond. £45. Tel: 07772 173910.

Red Bumbo seat with white tray.

Exc cond. £15. Tel: 07772 173910.

Mothercare backpack infant carrier. Exc cond with instructions. £25. Tel: 07772 173910.

Birth to potty reusable nappy bundle. Little lamb, motherease and tots bots. Full kit. All great cond. £150. Tel: 07772 173910.

Lindam easifit safety gate. Still in box. Never used £15. Tel: 07772 173910.

Mamas and Papas highchair.

Hardly Used (grandparents house). £20. Tel: 01505 346118.

Lindam white extended stair gate. Hardly used. Height 92 cms. Width 87 cms. £25. Tel: 01505 346118.

Silver Cross 3D Pram System, in VGC - £40. Tel: 01505 345505.

Clothes & Shoes Brown Italian knee high leather boots. Size 5. Brand new, never worn. £25. Tel: 01475 540315.

New black UGG long boots with 3 buttons at side. Size 6 / 6.5.

Unwanted present. Cost £220, will sell for £150. Great bargain. Tel: 01505 842558.

Boys (3-4yrs) clothes. Anorak (winter), jeans, shirts, t-shirts, pyjamas - in perfect condition. All for £20. Tel: 01505 842558.

Selection of new hand knitted baby clothes for both boys and girls sizes birth to year old. Tel: 07549 480302.

Household & Garden Chinese & Indian Rugs.

Offers when seen. Tel: 01505 506385.

Pine double bed and mattress. £60. Tel: 01505 690430.

Pine 2 over 3 chest of drawers with triple vanity mirror. £35.

Tel 01505 690430.

Assorted vases & jugs. £15. Tel:07808 774209.

Assorted candlesticks. £15. Tel:07808 774209.

Ikea Forhoja Kitchen Trolley. £30.

Tel:- 07808 774209.

Ikea Glass Door Cabinet. £20.

Tel:- 07808 774209.

New Ikea beige rug (Adum), 135cm x 195cm, never used.

Smoke free house. £40 (cost £50 new). Tel: 07974 238527.

Futon Company 3 seater sofa bed, birchwood, as good as new. £190. smoke free house.

Tel: 07974 238527.

Small table and 2 chairs. £30. Tel: 01505 873415.

26 inch television with stand, silver - good condition. £20.

Tel:-07939 516507.

IKEA coat stand. £10. Tel: 07808 774209.

Wooden bunk beds for sale.

Good condition. Must uplift. £75. Tel: 01505 690819.

Harveys Bologne furniture range ,Black 2x2 sofa’s plus black storage pouffee, 18mths old. £300. Tel: 07932 021183.

Brown 3 seater sofa with reversible back and seat cushions. Perfect condition.

Size 208x72x98 cms. £195.

Tel.01505 613956.

Chaise Longue. From Martin and Frost. Recovered in greyish chenille. Lovely condition £100. Tel.01505 613956.

48-51 CLASSIFIED_245_FEB15.ind.indd 50

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.

Electrical & Gas Aqua Vac Pro 70 strong suction vacuum cleaner. Only used for 18 months for light indoor cleaning. Lightweight and easy to move around. £20 for quick sale. Tel: 01505 690751.

Gas Stove Black Cast Steel Brand New Glazed door never used brand New very heavy £100. Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@hotmail.com Sports Cool Rider Gatehouse girls riding hat size 56-61cm, pink colour. New condition - wrong size bought. £15. Tel: 07887 784162.

Boys ski jacket. Trespass Blue / Grey Age 11/12 VGC £10. Tel: 07812 515019.

Boys ski trousers. Trespass Black Age 9/10 VGC. £5. Tel: 07812 515019.

Boys ski helmet Red - suit age 8-10 VGC. £5. Tel: 07812 515019.

Rugby boots. Canterbury Size 6 UK. GC £10. Tel 07812 515019.

Ski Suit All in One. Pink with blue/ yellow/flashes. Ladies size 1214 £30. tel:01505 872393.

Ski Suit All in One. Blue with purple/orange/flashes. Men’s XL. £30. tel:01505 872393.

Ski Jacket and Trousers by Killy France. Pink. size 12. £40. Tel: 01505 872393.

3 sets of skis and bindings. One set at 1m.66cm and two sets at 1m.88cm. 2 sets poles plus travelling bag £60 the lot. Tel: 01475 540327.

Ladies 17” Falcon STORM Bike lovely bike (BS 6012) Light grey frame 18 gears very good cond special padded saddle £60. Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@hotmail.com Old Dutch Gents Bike 23” frame hub gears and brakes £100.

Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@hotmail.com Track / Jump Bike White Frame £35. Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@hotmail.com Roger Black rowing machine, as new. Bought Argos at Xmas for £200. Sell £100ono. Tel: 01505 842286.

Girls Apollo Pure 20” pink bike.

Includes Disney Princess helmet 50-56 cm. £40 ono.

Tel: 07412 103630.

Dunlop Performance golf clubs & bag, 1,3 & 5 woods and 9 irons, graphite shafts, black bag, exc cond, extras included, £60, Tel: 07954 364125.

Toys/Games/DVD Bricks Trolley Mothercare. Good cond £8. Tel: 01505 874870.

C l o u d B Tr a n q u i l Tu r t l e , turquoise. Exc cond with instructions. £17. Tel: 07772 173910.

Other Items Aluminium ladder, length 6ft, 5 steps. £10. Tel: 01505 873415.

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.

Remington Silk Waving Wand, used once . Not boxed . £10.

Tel: 07751 964953 .

Computer workstation beech finish 1480mm x 740mm x 720mm good condition. £20.

Tel: 01475 540327.

Electric Guitar by Falcon. exc cond. £40. Tel: 01505 872393.

Yamaha PSR 140 Keyboard Organ with backlit LCD. £40.

Tel: 01505 872393.

Polaroid Supercolor 635 camera (working), Kodak Instamatic M26 Super 8 Movie camera, free to collector. Tel: 01505 613300.

Radio Hacker Herald nice cond not been used for a while collector’s item needs battery sold as seen. £45. Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@ hotmail.com Mobile Phones Samsung sgh v200 on T mobile Motorola V550 on Vodaphone collectors’ items sold as seen £15 each.

Tel: 07791 688240.

Smartphone HTC one M7 the best phone voted 2014 Android takes all sims in perfect working order cost £450, selling £180. Tel: 07791 688240 or email bensloch@ hotmail.com 4 winter tyres and wheels to fit a BMW 3 series 2010 model. £195. Tel: 07817 433290.

info@advertizer.co.uk

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

Fri 13th Feb

MARCH ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th Feb • Delivery: 27th Feb • APRIL ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th Mar • Delivery: 27th Mar

LATE NEWS .....

Ranfurly Castle Ladies 85th AGM The out going Captain, Eileen Walker welcomed everyone before reviewing the previous years golfing activities. Both the Secretary and Handicap Secretary delivered their reports followed by Eileen handing over her badge of Office to Vicky Rennie who is the incoming Lady Captain for 2015.

Vicky informed the ladies on the current situation regarding the amalgamation of the SLGA and the SGU and wished us all a good golfing season.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of the Club Trophies to all the winners during 2014 season.

Photo of past, present and vice Captains:- L-R :- Eileen Walker, Vicky Rennie, Joy McLeod

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.

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february 2015

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Advertizers - A to Z

by category Accountants & Financial

Framing

Kitchens

Retail

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

Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13,6 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 12

Architectural Services

Garage Doors & Gates

Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 5 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 19 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 13 Saks & Hart Country Living . . 11 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 7 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 6

Architectural Drawings . . . . . 20 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 17 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 13 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 41

Auctioneers & Valuers Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 30

Automotive Services AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 25

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

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13,6

Blacksmith & Metalwork Iron House Stoves Limited . . 12 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 10

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 5 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 27 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 12 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20

Care Services & Homes Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Childcare Woodlands Nursery . . . . . . . . . 43

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 4 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 26

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20

Funeral Services Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 31 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 28 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 41 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 38 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 36 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 37 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 39 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 36 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 31 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 37 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 36 West of Scotland Landscape . . 37

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 10 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 4 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 2 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 17 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 18 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 14 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 35 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 47 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 6 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 33 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 35 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Home Hardware First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 19 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4

Home Improvements Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 3 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 29

Home Interiors

Driving Instructors

Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13,6 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 29 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 4 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 7

Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 14 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7

Home Security Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 35

Education

Joiners

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

CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 5 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 12 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

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

Electricians Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Delta Electrical Services . . 28 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 10

Firewood & Logs Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 18 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 36

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Leisure & Recreation Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 46

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 6 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 15 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Pet Services & Training

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 5 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 27 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43

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

Special Occasions

Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Kilmacolm Dog Training Classes . . 41 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 41

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

Photographers

Tiling

Passports To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 5 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 6 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 5 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 10 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 4 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 2 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 18 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Property, Sales & Let Corum Property . . . . . . . . . 22,23,24 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 20 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 8 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Restaurant & Bars Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 26 Houston Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Stoves Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 20 G J Tiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 36 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,36 Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 37 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 36

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 12 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 34

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 5

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 14 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

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.

@ease Removals & Transport . . 8 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 38 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affluent Financial Planning . . 20 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 5 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 14 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 36 Architectural Drawings . . . . . 20 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 32 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 31 Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 47 Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 26 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 17 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms . . . . . . . . . 35 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13,6 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 10 Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 18 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 6 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 29 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 30 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 6 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 30 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . 22,23,24 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 37 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 39 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 20 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Delta Electrical Services . . 28 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 12 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 14 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 6 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 20 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 15 G J Tiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 19

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 36 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 31 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 25 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 13 Houston Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 4 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 15 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 3 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 12 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 5 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 14 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 2 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 17 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 28 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 20 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 35 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 33 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 9 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 Kilmacolm Dog Training Classes . . 41 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 20 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,36 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 18 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 5 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 27 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 10 Memorare Memoriam Cards Ltd . . 41 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 MS All Trades Limited . . . . . . 4 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 32 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 35 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 4 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 29 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 34 Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Passports To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 37 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 37 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saks & Hart Country Living . . 11 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 41 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 45 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 46 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 12 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 7 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 43 Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 36 West of Scotland Landscape . . 37 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 6 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14 Woodlands Nursery . . . . . . . . . 43

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

February 2015 No.245

Distribu

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

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