246 March 2015 - Gryffe Advertizer

March 2015

FRE 1 CO E PY

No.246 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

ADVERTIZER

The Glen & Pow Burn, Bridge of Weir by Fiona McEwan from PCPC

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your LOCAL community magazine March 2015 No.246

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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

Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Games Society (RIGS)

Blood Donor Sessions

We are a friendly group of board and card game enthusiasts who meet every fortnight on Wednesday evenings at the upstairs café bar of Amaretto in Bridge of Weir.

Boglestone Comm Centre, Dubbs Pl, Port Glasgow PA14 5UD

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 fishing in ancient Japan. 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 March 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.

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The Play Drome, Abbotsford Road, Clydebank G81 1PA Wednesday 4th March - 4pm - 7.30pm Wednesday 4th March - 4pm - 7.30pm The Gamble Halls, Shore Street at King St, Gourock PA19 1RG Tuesday 17th March - 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm Community Centre, Kings Road, Beith KA15 2BQ Wednesday 25th March - 4pm - 7.30pm St John’s Parish Hall, Aurs Road, Barrhead G78 2RW Thursday 26th March - 2pm - 3.45pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm

You can drop in to give blood at 8 Nelson Mandela Place, Glasgow. Call today to make an appointment on 0845 90 90 999 - the only think you’ll feel is good about yourself!

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Have you wiped your feet?

As the sun shines through your window this year, is your floor in need of attention? Has your Spring Clean made you feel embarrassed of that old worn carpet or faded floor?

More people are discovering Karndean & Amtico flooring as the perfect choice for their homes. They are hardwearing, waterproof, easily maintained and the most sought after floor coverings on the market. There is a stunning array of styles and variations available, which can give you the opportunity to design your own floor.

K a r n d e a n even adjusts to temperature and will be cool in

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summer and warm in winter.

They also do not have the drawbacks of natural materials like wood or ceramics, which can dent, score, crack and fade easily.

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 229 584 or 07563 633 432 E: sjmproducts@hotmail.com website- www.orchard-flooring.com

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This

Month Spring into March!

Arts Festival

Now an established and popular annual event, Lochwinnoch Arts Festival will run from 18 to 29 March with a variety of events held through the week and an art exhibition in the Library running throughout. Two pre-festival events will also run on 7 and 15 March. Some events must be booked in advance, so get your skates on and get in touch if you fancy going along.

Find out more details at http://lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk/

A761 The Councillors of Inverclyde and Renfrewshire inform us that surface upgrades to the A761 (Kilmacolm to Bridge of Weir road) are imminent, either side of the District boundary. Hopefully these repairs will incorporate improved drainage, since it seems to me to be the excessive surface water which has resulted in numerous serious accidents in recent years.

The delay in resurfacing is, as usual, a consequence of budget cuts and lack of funding. However one has to wonder what the expense is to the emergency services, insurance claims and clean up operations, and hospital care and rehabilitation for the victims. Some joined up thinking from central government would help... surely prevention is better than cure?

Nearly new babies - Kidston Kids

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.247 April 2015 Fri 13th March 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.

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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It is with some regret we have a missing entry this month. Traditionally this would be the month when we’d be promoting the “nearly new baby sale” for Kidston Kids in Kilmacolm. Whether through lack of funding or simply a lack of voluntary support, this once thriving baby and toddler playgroup, to which my own kids were delighted attendees, is no more.

Many of our local community groups and organisations rely on volunteers.

However, we now live in a society where we all have so many constraints and pressures, apparently, that many find it difficult to donate their time, even if just a couple of hours a week.

Maybe it’s time to take stock. My children’s development was much the richer for environments like Kidston Kids. And, if anyone fancies starting up the “nearly new baby sale”, I have a couple of donations, although they are now teenagers, so not sure if that counts. But, seriously, let’s all try and make some effort to get involved in our superb communities.

British Summer Time The clocks will go forward by one hour on Sunday 29 March as British Summer Time begins for another year. The official time changes at 1am, moving forward to 2am across the UK. If you struggle to remember which direction time travels, there is an old saying, “Spring forward, Fall back” to help you.

Your LOCAL magazine The Advertizer is the ideal platform to tell the community your news as we reach over 14,000 homes and businesses in the Gryffe area. Send in your news and photos to: info@advertizer.co.uk, or by post to The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN.

Next deadline Friday 13 March!

Rona

contents business classified.............64 property classified...............65 church listings.................65 sales & wants......................66 advertiser directory................67 travel blog..............................7 local history .........................24 business news..................24-25 it blog ................................25 on the road.............................27

local news..........................8-12 dental blog .................. 1 2 pet blog ...........................44 pets ...........................44-45 outdoors..........................46-53 schools news.....................54-59 sporting blog..........................60 sports & clubs news.............60-63 village news.......................30-43 what’s on..........................14-23 beauty blog .....................23

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Travel Blog

by Maureen Horton of Travel a la Carte

The Red City of Marrakech

We left Glasgow in -1 degrees and arrived into Marrakech 4 hours later to + 21 degrees and sunshine on the 21st January....What bliss.

The approach to the airport enabled us to see the extent of the Red City, aptly named by the colour of the red sandstone buildings surrounded by fertile red soil interspersed with hundreds of orange trees and not a single high rise building.

We were informed that the king has forbidden any building in Marrakech to be higher than Le Koutoubia mosque.

The next morning, we woke to the magnificent cacophony of bird songs and wondered could these be our summer garden birds having a rest and a feast before their next long haul flight North.

Most visitors choose to stay in a Riad, located in the Medina, which range in size, quality and cost. They offer peace and tranquillity featuring lovely mosaic tiled courtyards, tinkling fountains and hospitable staff offering calm and courteous service. There are a few large hotels set in large gardens close to the Medina, the most famous of these is La Mamounia which was a favourite of Winston Churchill during his lifetime.

Marrakech is one of the 4 Imperial cities built by Moroccan Berber empires.

Morocco became a protectorate of France in 1912 until 1956 when independence and the monarchy was re-established. Today, there is still a large French influence evident in language and cuisine and many French own homes in the city. The Medina is now a UNESCO heritage site which awakens your senses with all that there is to take in.

From the crazy Jemaa el-Finaa square, the smell and sight of Spices and Tagines being cooked; Colourful leather goods in the bustling Souk; Hundreds of Sweet Smelling Roses and essential oils. Donkeys pulling carts piled high with goods; The Labrynth of alleys and the dark dark eyes of the Berbers watching us.

I cannot finish without a mention of the magnificence of the snow covered Atlas mountains which produce such a gorgeous backdrop to this interesting and colourful city in the Kingdom of Morocco.

Would you like to go? ..................we can help get you there!

Mothering Sunday

Mother’s Day, or Mothering Sunday, is celebrated on the 4th Sunday of Lent.

Many people make a special effort to visit their mother, taking cards and gifts and maybe treating her to brunch, lunch or high tea in a cafe, restaurant or hotel. People who cannot visit their mother usually send gifts or cards to her.

Mothering Sunday was originally a time when people returned to the church, in which they were baptized or where they attended services when they were children. This meant that families were reunited as adults returned to the towns and villages where they grew up.

In time, it became customary for young people who were working as servants in large houses, to be given a holiday on Mothering Sunday. They could use this day to visit their own mother and often took a gift of food or handme-down clothing from their employers to her. In turn, this moved towards the modern holiday, on which people still visit and take gifts to their mothers.

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Red Nose Day 2015 Red Nose Day is winging your way on Friday 13th March, so get ready to have a laugh and do something funny for money along with the rest of the nation!

How can I get involved in Red Nose Day 2015?

There are tons of ways that you can Do Something Funny for Money and join in with Red Nose Day. Our get involved page will get your fundraising off to a flying start with lots of exciting ideas on how to take part in the fun and change lives here in the UK and across Africa.

All over the country, people of all ages and in all kinds of places do something funny for money on Red Nose Day. And you can join them. Whether you do it at work, at home or at school, it’s what you do that changes lives.

Visit the website www.rednoseday.com

Slouch at Bernie’s Karen and Marc, who run Bernie’s Cafe Deli in Bridge of Weir, are delighted to announce that from Friday 6th March, Bernie’s will be open from 6 till 11pm, with a relaxed menu, chilled beers and great wines!

They would be delighted to welcome you!

Why We Need YOU To Join The Great Daffodil Appeal Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal returns in March, and will be our most ambitious yet.

Start planning with our fantastic, free, tailor-made fundraising kit that’s packed to bursting with everything you need to raise cash, have fun and change lives. What are you waiting for?

So whatever you do…do something.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Last year, the appeal raised £8.26 million, funding 413,000 hours of nursing care. That was a great result, but sadly every five minutes in the UK someone dies without the care they need at the end of their life.

So please sign up to be a collector today in your area - visit the website at www. mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/ daffodil-appeal. Your time collecting for the Great Daffodil Appeal will help Marie Curie Nurses care for more people living with a terminal illness, so they can spend time with the people they love.

You’ll also have fun and make friends, as some of our fantastic volunteers explain:Susie & Linda (pictured right), from Johnston & Houston, said - “2 hours is not a lot of time to give up. We were amazed how generous people were and we will definitely be making a difference again this year.”

You can make a difference too - go on, you know you want to!!!

No Smoking Day - 11th March

Whether you’re ready to quit, or you still need that extra push, now is the time to take control!

Smoking is the single biggest killer of people in the UK. There are over 4,000 chemicals in one cigarette, including rat poison, toilet cleaner and nail varnish remover. Nice, eh?!

There are so many health benefits of quitting smoking and it’s never too late. After 24 hours of stopping, lungs start clearing out your build up of tar and after 3-9 months, your lungs will have room for up to 10% more oxygen.

The first No Smoking Day was held on Ash Wednesday in 1984 and it now takes place every year on the second Wednesday in March.

The theme for 2015 is ‘Proud to be a Quitter!’ So, if you are thinking of quitting smoking why not visit the official website to read the inspirational stories to help you along the way. www.nosmokingday.org.uk

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PCPC 2nd Bimonthly Competition Results Paisley Colour Photographic Club were very pleased to welcome award winning photographer Guy Phillips from Helensburgh to judge the second of the session’s three bimonthly competitions held recently at the MacMaster Centre in Renfrew.

In this competition club members could submit up to three images and Guy gave a very thorough and detailed critique to each of over 60 images in the two categories introductory and advanced. There was a wide range of photographic styles and subjects on show including some fantastic landscapes and stunning natural history images giving Guy a very difficult task ranking the top images. He shared his technical knowledge of photography with members giving useful tips on panning shots, on how to improve compositions by eliminating distractions from the main subject as well as giving useful post processing tips for example on how to bring out detail in shaded areas of an image.

In the Introductory section third place was awarded to Kathy Giddings for her image “Preening”. The awards for the first and second placed images in this section went to Kevin Moulds for his images “The Long Road” and his winning monochrome portrait “Smile”.

In the Advanced section of the competition there was a particularly high standard of entry for this bimonthly and in her first competition entry to this section Alison Smart’s beautiful seascape image “Dusk at Mangawhai Heads” received a position in the top ten.

In fourth place was Richard Bennett’s image “Kingfisher with Minnow” and in third place was the image “Four Spotted Chaser” by Jim Black. The top two images were by Mike Cruise.

In second place was “Cuckoo” and Guy’s choice of winning image was the almost faultless image natural history, action shot “Black Grouse Confrontation”.

For details about PCPC please go to: www.paisleycolour.co.uk

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Strictly Come Prancing Your chance to dance!

Friday 20th March at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew Contact info@svh.co.uk or 01505 705635 for details.

Take a Bow Local Ladies Writing & Drama Group, Take a Bow, presents an evening of comedy, tragedy, poetry, good company and great wine! This takes place at Bernie’s Cafe Deli, Bridge of Weir, on Thursday 2nd April starting at 8pm. Tickets are £5 and available at Bernie’s.

The Stitching, Sewing & Quilting Show/HobbyCrafts Thursday 5th March to Sunday 8th March at the SECC, Glasgow - 10am - 5pm (4.30pm Sun) 2 shows for the price of 1!!!

Visit the popular HobbyCrafts & Stitching, Sewing & Quilting show and find all the very latest supplies and ideas in the world of stitching and creative crafts, with lots of special features to enjoy, plus FREE workshops, talks and demonstrations.

Tickets £7.50 adults, £6.50 seniors if you purchase in advance. www.stitchandhobby.co.uk

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Sounds from Stirling Castle – A Military Concert On the evening of Friday 13th March at 7.30pm, ‘Sounds from Stirling Castle – a Military Concert’, will be held in the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall of Stirling Castle, where up to 400 people will enjoy a unique evening of soul-stirring music provided by serving soldiers and the wives and children of serving military personnel.

The Concert, which is being held in order to raise funds for two proud Scottish military charities – Erskine and The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders Museum Trust – will feature performances from The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, The Military Wives’ Choir and the Pipes, Drums and Dancers of Queen Victoria School. Our Host for the evening will be Alasdair Hutton, well-known as the Voice of the Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo.

Tickets: £15 from www.erskine.org.uk/events/all/17 or for further information please contact Jen on 0141 814 4729 or jennifer.campbell@erskine.org.uk

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Annual Concert The Choral Society is delighted to present its 35th annual concert with an exciting Programme of music by Haydn, Beethoven and Mozart in the Thomas Coats Memorial Church, High St Paisley on Sunday 15th March at 7.30pm.

Entrance: £10; £5 for students; accompanied children free.

Dental Blog

The concert will be conducted by our musical director Andrew Nunn and we will be joined by 4 excellent soloists and the symphony orchestra from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. The choir will perform Haydn Te Deum in C and Beethoven Mass in C with soprano soloist. An added attraction in recent programmes has been the inclusion of an orchestral item performed by the very talented RCS symphony orchestra and this year they will perform a short Mozart symphony (no 35 Haffner).

Ever wondered about Veneers?

This should be a wonderful evening of music in the beautiful setting and acoustic of Coats Memorial Church and we hope that you will join us. Tickets are available from choir members; email coatschoral@btinternet.com or by phoning 01505 816110 or 01505 612874

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

A veneer is one of the options your dentist can offer to improve the colour, shape or position of your teeth. They can help improve the appearance of discoloured, damaged, misshapen or out of line teeth and can even help fill small unsightly gaps between teeth.

A veneer is a thin layer of naturally coloured porcelain or “composite” material that is fitted over the front surface of a tooth – a bit like applying a false nail to a real nail. A veneer can be matched to improve the appearance of a single tooth or a number of teeth.

The first step to getting veneers is to book a consultation with your dentist to discuss your requirements, the process and suitability of the treatment - at this point your dentist may also take x-rays and impressions of your teeth. Veneers are usually a cosmetic treatment and are only available on the NHS in special circumstances but a good dentist will always go through any costs with you – at Kilbarchan Dental Practice we provide our clients with a written quote prior to treatment taking place.

Once you and your dentist have agreed that veneers are right for you the process involves removing a tiny amount of the enamel surface of the teeth to be treated (the same thickness as the veneer to be applied). This may require a local anaesthetic to numb the area but is not always necessary. Your dentist will take an impression of the tooth or teeth that is then sent to a dental laboratory where the veneers will be colour matched and custom made.

At your next visit your dentist will check the veneer for fit and shade so it will appear as natural as possible before it is bonded permanently in place. At this point your dentist will “fine tune” the shape of the teeth that will have the veneer to ensure the best possible fit.

Veneers should last for many years but can be damaged and repaired just like real teeth. If you would like to find out more about veneers or other options for improving the appearance of your teeth like white fillings, crowns and teeth whitening 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.

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www.thomascoatschoral.org.uk

Join us for the Beatson Ball beating cancer together The prestigious Beatson Cancer Care Charity Ball 2015 takes place on Saturday 30th May at the Glasgow Thistle Hotel.

Red Carpet Entrance.

Sponsored drinks reception.

Gala Dinner with our host Gina McKie (Clyde 1) Entertainment including the fabulous Red Hot Chilli Pipers Dancing until 2am ALL funds raised from this annual event are managed by the Beatson Cancer Charity to provide extras for patient comfort and care as well as much needed support for relatives, which is not otherwise funded by the NHS. Tickets are priced at just £70 per person, £770 for a Table for 12 (host goes free!)

Our 2014 event Sold Out within 8 weeks and, with early demand for our 2015 event, we advise that you reserve your place as soon as possible in order to avoid disappointment.

To secure your place or for more information Visit our website: www.beatsonball.org.uk Call us: 0141 327 0000 Email us: lorraine.gray@beatsonball.org.uk

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March events

Fri 27 February Weir Networking Event

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

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

Sat 28 February Kilbarchan Singers’ Ceilidh

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

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

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

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Tue 3 March The Lynnhurst Hotel Wedding Open Evening

Lynnhurst Hotel, Park Rd, Johnstone 4pm to 8pm Looking for the perfect venue for your special day? the Lynnhurst will be set for a full wedding for you to view. Price: This is a free event For further information call 01505 324331.

Wed 4 March An Evening of Music with St Columba’s School St Columba’s Church, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm 7pm

All proceeds to church roof repairs. For tickets (£7), please contact the school on 01505 872768.

Thu 5 March Outlook - Glasgow Architecture Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm

The afternoon social group for friendship and fellowship welcome back David Walker to show us part two of his slide presentation of Glasgow Architecture. OUTLOOK provides afternoon tea plus community issues, activities, quiz etc. Please join us, everyone is most welcome. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393

Thu 5 - Sun 8 March The Stitching, Sewing & Quilting Show/HobbyCrafts

RSPB Binocular & Telescope Open Day SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow

RSPB, Largs Rd, 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

2 Shows for the Price of 1! 10am - 5pm (4.30pm Sun). Find all the very latest supplies and ideas in the world of stitching and creative crafts, with lots of special features to enjoy, plus FREE workshops, talks and demonstrations. Tickets £7.50 adults, £6.50 seniors if you purchase in advance. Www. stitchandhobby.co.uk

Fri 6 March RSPB Illustrated Talk

Sun 1 March Wedding Fayre McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm

Talk by Chris J Rollie on The Ring Ouzel. Everyone welcome.

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

1st Spring Walk

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join us for a gentle Ranger guided stroll through the woods with moderate slopes. All events in March free for members, normal entry fee applies to non-members. T:01475 540505 .

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World Day Of Prayer Local Service St Columba’s Church, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm 1.30pm

We are delighted that the children’s choir from Kilmacolm Primary School will be able to join us again with their singing and music. There will be refreshments after the Service. Everyone welcome! If you want to know more about the event, please give me a call. Maureen Russell Convenor (telephone 872905)

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Sat 7 March

Sat 7 March

Coffee Morning - Motor Neurone Disease

Duchal Nursery School Fun Open Morning

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Scotland are holding a Coffee Morning on Saturday 7th March in New Community Centre Kilmacolm from 10am - 12noon. Entry £3.

Rhino’s Revenge

The Bungalow, Shuttle Street, Paisley Doors 6.30pm Featuring John Rhino Edwards (Bass player in Status Quo) and special guests ‘The Ten Bob Sliders’ and ‘The Charge’. Over 18s only please.

All proceeds go to Kilbarchan Pipe Band. Tickets £13.50 from www.eventbrite.co.uk or call 07769 318284.

Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital Visit

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 3pm Come and learn about the wonderful work done by the local Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital, and even meet some of their patients! Staff from the hospital will be on hand to talk about the different animals they have with them, and to tell you all about the experiences they have had working at the hospital! Cost: Free E: lochwinnoch@rspb.org. uk Tel: 01505 842 663

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival: Family Poetry Competition RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 12noon

Cost: FREE. Poems will be displayed in the RSPB visitor center and the winning ones performed on Wednesday 25th March, at the reserve, at an evening with Betty McKellar and Witches’ Brew.

NB, Adults are very welcome at the workshop, but attendance is obligatory for children. For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: e: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk T: 01505 842 663

The BIG dinner for 500 miles Renfrewshire

Sit down to dinner in your country - and in Africa, someone will stand up and walk. All you have to do is have a dinner (or breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea!) today - and ask your guests to make a donation to 500 miles in return for your hospitality.

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Birkmyre Park, Broomknowe Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Come along and experience a little bit of Duchal at our nursery. All welcome. Come and see our facilities at this fun open morning. Limited places available for August 2015. Registration taken from birth onwards for future years. Www.duchal.com

Bishopton Art Group Spring Art & Craft Fair

Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton 10am to 3pm

Free parking. Free admission. Tea room and home baking available.

Sun 8 March Den Building and Survival Skills

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Could you survive a night in the forest? Come along to Finlaystone Country Estate and build a den in the woods whilst learning a few wilderness survival tips from the Rangers that will help you become the next Bear Grylls. Price: Normal admission charge applies For further information telephone: 01475 540505

Wed 11 March RSPB - Evening Talk

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5 (RSPB members £3). Children: £3 (Wildlife Explorers £2) E: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel: 01505 842 663

Fri 13 March Advertizer Deadline

Neva Place, Bridge of Weir Deadline for our April 2015 issue - please make sure we get your news and ad bookings by this date!

Red Nose Day 2015

There are tons of ways that you can Do Something Funny for Money and join in with Red Nose Day. So whatever you do…do something.

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t: 01505 613340

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Sun 15 March

Fri 20 March

Mothers’ Day

Strictly Come Prancing

Normandy Hotel, Inchinnan Rd, Renfrew

Go on - treat your mum (or someone else’s) to something special today.

If you haven’t signed up to dance - go along and show your support. Contact info@svh.co.uk or 01505 705635 for details.

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Annual Concert

Sat 21 March Abbey Nursery Open Day

South Street, Houston 2pm-4pm

Thomas Coats Memorial Church, High St, Paisley 7.30pm

See main advert on page 54.

Spring Coffee Morning

The concert will be conducted by our musical director Andrew Nunn and we will be joined by 4 excellent soloists and the symphony orchestra from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Tickets are available from choir members, tel: 01505 816110/ 01505 612874 or e: coatschoral@ btinternet.com www.thomascoatschoral.org.uk £10, £5 for Students

St Columba’s Church, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Come along for refreshments and home baking and fun and games for the children.

Wildlife Explorer Group: Water Voles

Junior Cross Country

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm

Ages: 5 - 14yrs (For under fives, 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: http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ lochwinnochwex

Join us tackling the Finlaystone Junior Cross Country for 5-10 year olds see who sets the best time in this fun race. T: 01475540505 E: info@finlaystone.co.uk All events in March free for members, normal entry fee applies to nonmembers.

Sun 22 March

Mother’s Day Stroll

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank

Brookfield Art Club Art Show & Sale

Why not treat mum to a stroll through the woods and gardens followed by a scone and a cup of tea? Cream Teas are available in the tea room overlooking the walled garden from 12pm – 4pm.

T: 01475 540505 E: info@finlaystone.co.uk All events in March free for members, normal entry fee applies to non-members.

Wed 18 March

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 12noon to 4.30pm Admission £1. Tea room and baking available.

St Columba’s School Former Pupils’ AGM

St John Passion – J S Bach

St Columba’s School, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 7.30pm

All former pupils, former staff and friends of St Columba’s School are welcome to attend.

Choir of Paisley Abbey with orchestra of period instruments Directed by George McPhee.

Evangelist: Stuart Patterson. Tickets: £15 (Nave) £20 (Gallery) £5 (student). on sale at the Abbey Shop; Abbey Office (0141 889 7654); at the door.

Thu 19 March Outlook - Kilmacolm/Port Glasgow Agricultural Society

Messy Church - Kilmacolm Old Kirk

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

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm 11am

President, Angus Black, and friends, will tell us a little of the history of the Society, share some highlights and pictures to get us in the mood for the 180th Show on Saturday 9th May. OUTLOOK provides afternoon tea plus community issues, activities, quiz etc. Please join us, everyone is most welcome. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393

Family fun with crafts and lunch. A fresh new way of experiencing church!

RSPB - Sunday Talk

Thu 19 - Sun 29 Mar

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 3pm to 4pm

Arts Festival Exhibition

Sunday Talk: The Zen Sounds of Nature, by Duncan Watt Duncan Watt has a passion for wildlife and is an experienced public speaker. Come and listen to this interesting talk about listening to nature!

Cost: Adults: £5 (RSPB members £3) Children: £3 (Wildlife Explorers £2). E: lochwinnoch@rspb.org. uk Tel: 01505 842 663

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch

Come and see a photography exhibition organised

by Lochwinnoch Arts Festival at Castle Semple Visitor Centre from 10.00 – 16.00 hrs, open daily.

More info 01505 842882 Ex 20

Fri 20 March Solar Eclipse Event

Coats Observatory, Oakshaw St, Paisley 8.30am to 10.45am Witness an incredibly rare partial eclipse of the Sun! Safely view this amazing celestial event at Coats Observatory through the solar telescopes housed in the building. Price: This is a free event Call 0300 300 1210 for further information.

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Heaven 17 LIVE LNP Promotions are proud to present Heaven 17 LIVE at Paisley Town Hall on Friday 6th of March. Doors open at 6.45pm.

Main Hall - Standing & Dancing - Balcony unreserved seating (Booking and postage fee may apply) Tickets £22.50 from www.tickets-scotland. co.uk and locally in Paisley from Apollo Music, Causeyside Street 0141 887 6293.

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t: 01505 613340 Tue 24 March Lochwinnoch Arts Festival – Music & Poetry Evening

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Paisley Entertainment Magical Mozart by Candlelight An evening of Mozart’s classical music and song.

Tickets: £14 (£12 conc) + booking fee Sunday 1st March - 7.30pm - Paisley Town Hall

Long Live The Little Knife RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm

Sun 22 March St John Pasion J S Bach

Local bard, Betty McKellar, will read poetry written by local families and present the prizes for the children’s poetry competition. Musical support will be given by ‘Witches Brew’. Cost: FREE For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: E: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 RSPB Lochwinnoch, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF

Kilmacolm Civic Trust AGM Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 7.30pm Choir of Paisley Abbey - Orchestra of Early Instruments Directed by George McPhee. Soloists - Stuart Patterson (Tenor) Evangelist; Mark Rowlinson (Bass) Christus; Andrew Tipple (Bass) Libby Crabtree (Soprano); Grace Durham (Alto); David Lee (Tenor) Tickets: £15 (Nave) £20 (Gallery) £5 (student) Available from Abbey Shop; Abbey Office (0141 889 7654); at the door. Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. – SC007633

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Programme:- 7.30pm–8.15pm: Formal AGM business. 8.30pm-9.30pm: A talk by Gerry Boyle on the Twinning of Mérignies and Kilmacolm

Wed 25 - Sat 28 Mar Howwood to Castle Semple Howwood Station

Join the Rangers and Feeling Fitter crew for a Level 2 walk starting from Howwood Train Station at 11.00 hrs. More info tel 01505 842 882 Ex 20

Grow Kilbarchan Action Day

Fri 27 March

Please come along and show your support.

Fashion Show By Toggery

The Trust, Kilbarchan 1pm

Sun 22 - Sat 28 Mar Spring Hide & Seek

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge,

Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Avenue, Linwood 6.30pm

Ladies wear. Jewellery. Bags etc. Credit/debit cards accepted. 10% of all purchases goes to the church. Ticket £6 which includes a glass of wine and nibbles. Tel: 01505 842365 to book tickets.

You may bring your own bottle of wine if you wish.

Scottish Charity No. SCO14518

Brian Laurie Accordion Showband in concert Greenock Has spring arrived? Are the woods waking up after their winter sleep? Come & explore Shielhill Glen and find the emerging woodspirits marking their locations with a GPS. Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, 13.00 – 15.00 hrs. Cost: £2 per person and includes hot drink and biscuits. More info tel 01475 529543

Howwood Parish Church Hall, Main Street, Howwood

Come along and be entertained with a wide variety of music in aid of church funds. Not just Scottish!!!

Tickets can be bought at door on night.

Fri 27 - Sat 28 March Kilmacolm Art Class Exhibition

A dynamic, absurd and uplifting theatre piece about forgery, castration and blind drunkenness.

Tickets: £10 (£6 conc) + booking fee Wed 4th March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Pinocchio (U) This 1940 Disney classic follows inventor Gepetto, as he creates a wooden puppet called Pinocchio.

Tickets: £4 (£2 conc) + booking fee Saturday 7th March - 2pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Whatever The Weather M6 Theatre’s imaginative new production for ages 3+ is set in the charming world of a traditional Alpine Weather House. Tickets: £3 + booking fee Mon 9th Mar-11am & 1.30pm- Paisley Arts Centre

There Were Two Brothers A funny, personal exploration of fraternal relationships.

Tickets: £10 (£6 conc) + booking fee Wed 11th March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Frame by Frame A regular film event for local filmmakers and enthusiasts.

Tickets: £2 + booking fee Tuesday 17th March - Paisley Arts Centre

Tommy Smith and Brian Kellock Saxophonist Tommy Smith and pianist Brian Kellock team up to bring you a beautiful and imaginative live performance. Tickets: £12 (£10 conc) + booking fee Saturday 21st March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Butterfly Kiss An old man, visiting a seaside museum, is transported back to 1960, where he is 16 years old, holidaying on the west coast of Scotland.

Tickets: £12 (£10 conc) + booking fee Sunday 29th March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm

There are usually about 100 paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate water colours and palate knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets. EntranceAdults £1, Children over 5 years- 50p

“The Steamie” by Tony Roper

Triple Bill A fresh, new inclusive dance ensemble creating inspirational and challenging dance!

Tickets: £10 (£6 conc) + booking fee Tuesday 31st March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre

Paisley Arts Centre, New Street, Paisley Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group. Evening shows - doors 6.30pm / curtain up 7pm. Matinee - doors 1.30pm / curtain up 2pm. Adult £15, concession £12. Book tickets: 07950 189 980.

Sat 28 March

For booking or further information, please call: 0300 300 1210 or book online at https://boxoffice.renfrewshire.gov.uk

‘A Little Light Music’ Concert

Kilbarchan West Church, Church Street,

Kilbarchan 7.30pm On behalf of Kilbarchan West Church and Glasgow Light Opera Club. For tickets (£10) please call 01505 704986 or 01505 352491.

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Glasgow’s Jack & Jill Market The Jack and Jill Market Glasgow is held on the first Saturday of every month until 30th November 2015 from 10.30am - 1pm at Bellahouston Sports Centre, Glasgow South Side.

Price: £1.50 per Adult, Kids Go Free.

For further information, please call 07837 263378 The Jack and Jill Markets are quality nearly-new baby and children’s markets where smart mums sell and save.

You’ll find 50-60 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new maternity, baby, and children’s gear (0-9yrs). Hundreds of mums at each market are delighted to find quality, nearly-new items at fantastic prices.

SELL Book a stall to sell quality items you no longer use and keep 100% of what you make. 75% of our mums, to date, have made between £100-£350 selling quality items they no longer use, with our top selling mum making over £600!

SAVE Find everything you need for baby and children, all under the one roof, all on the same day. Whether it’s large items from our Large Items Gallery, or clothes, toys, books, and equipment from our quality nearly-new stalls, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for - why pay full retail price when you don’t have to!

Govan Retail Market & Car Boot Sale Browse the stalls and bag yourself a bargain at the weekly City Markets retail market and car boot sale in Govan!

The Govan Car Boot Sale is held on the land adjacent to Govan Cross Shopping Centre, between Water Row and Napier Street, Govan.

There is space for approximately 60 cars at this location and these will be allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

The spaces will be allocated from 9am onwards and the Car Boot Sale will operate from 10am to 3pm. Sellers are asked to arrive on site no earlier than 9am.

The charge for a standard space is £10 per day (for used goods only). Sellers who wish to trade in new goods will be charged £28 per day.

Our retail markets provide local communities with access to a wide range of fresh produce, including fruit & vegetables, butcher meat, poultry, eggs and fish, as well as groceries, clothing and household goods.

Every Saturday until 19th December 2015 from 9am - 3pm Free entry for shoppers.

Solar Eclipse Event Coats Observatory, Oakshaw St, Paisley Safely view a rare partial eclipse of the Sun (depending on weather) at Coats Observatory, Paisley on March 20th!

Witness an incredibly rare partial eclipse of the Sun! Safely view this amazing celestial event at Coats Observatory through the solar telescopes housed in the building.

The eclipse event begins at 8:30am until 10:45am and at its peak around 80% of the Sun will be hidden behind the Moon. Come along and witness this incredible spectacle for yourselves!

Kilbarchan West & Glasgow Light Opera Club Concert One of Glasgow’s oldest amateur dramatic societies, Glasgow Light Opera Club are bringing their acclaimed concert to Kilbarchan West Church on Saturday 28th March at 7.30pm.

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 [alib2833@gmail.com] NOW and she will be pleased to take your order, delivery will be arranged.

The Lynnhurst Hotel Wedding Open Evening Looking for the perfect venue for your special day? the Lynnhurst will be set for a full wedding for you to view. Our stunning collection of luxury bedrooms will be open to see including our new Honeymoon Suite.

If the weather prevents telescope use we will run a ‘virtual eclipse’ in the planetarium and will have a live internet feed broadcasting from the path of totality which will cover southern Iceland and the Faroe Islands.

The management team wedding coordinators can’t wait to answer any questions you may have.

In the build up to eclipse day, Solar viewing sessions will run on Tues 17th, Wed 18th and Thurs 19th March, 2pm to 4pm at the observatory. We will also be running a free drop-in workshop where people can make a solar viewer, allowing them to safely observe the Sun on the eclipse day.

Tuesday 3rd March from 4pm - 8pm

Price: This is a free event. Calll 0300 300 1210 for further information.

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Price: This is a free event For further information call 01505 324331.

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Sat 28 March

Sat 28 March

1st Lochwinnoch Boys Brigade Open Race

Easter Eggstravaganza

Lochwinnoch Parish Church 2pm

Entry forms are available from Christine Donaldson at christine39forever@hotmail.com or you can register from 11.30am till 1pm at Lochwinnoch Parish Church on the day of the race. For more information or if you would be available to steward on the day please contact Christine Donaldson 07545 248624 or Mark Brown 01505 842209.

‘A Little Light Music’

West Church, Church St, Kilbarchan 7.30pm

Featuring a selection of memorable show songs from through the years under the watchful eye of their concert Musical Director, Greenock’s Mr David Mackie (ex D’Oyly Carte). Tickets £10 are available NOW by telephoning 01505 352491/341510 or by contacting the ‘Kilbarchan Kirks’ facebook page.

An exciting display of dance and talent!!

Sun 29 March

Wed 4th Mar - 7.30pm - £8 to £10

Bread and Cheese Lunch

LOVE 2.0 A new comedy about dating in the age of social media.

Steve Brookstein Acoustic show featuring guitarist Luca Boscagin.

Thurs 5th Mar - 7.30pm - £15

Voodoo Room Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christian Aid committee are holding a simple lunch of homemade soups, delicious breads and a variety of cheeses, plus tea/coffee and shortbread will be served. Everyone is welcome to attend the Lunch; all we ask for is a donation to our charity, in exchange for your traditional Sunday lunch.

Tue 31 March

Paracyling at Glasgow Green

Stargazing Evening

St Columba’s School & Former Pupils’ Matches

events

Mon 2nd - Tues 3rd Mar - 7.30pm - £12.50

Kilmacolm Guides, Brownies and Rainbows would like to invite you to Afternoon Tea. There will be a section of teas and a wonderful selection of home baked cakes. Please come along and see all the developments that have been made in the area surrounding the hut and the newly re-furbished floor! Entry £3 includes tea and cakes.

Join Clyde Muirshiel Activities and Ranger staff at Glasgow Green for a paracylcing event hosted in collaboration with Glasgow Riderz.

There will be an Easter-egg hunt for the children in the church grounds, as well as a decorated egg and Easter bonnet competition. There will be stalls of home-baking and preserves and Easter gifts for the children and adults. Entrance is £2, children £1, which includes hot-cross buns with coffee.

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 12.15pm

Glasgow Green, Greendyke Street, Glasgow

THEATRE

Jackson Dance Academy Kilbarchan East Church, Church Street, Kilbarchan 10am to 12noon

Welcome Spring Afternoon Tea

Kilmacolm Guide Hut 2.30pm to 4pm

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch

Join the Rangers and staff from the Coats Observatory for some night sky exploration. See Jan 16 for details. At Muirshiel Visitor Centre (or Castle Semple Centre) from 7pm – 9pm. More info 01505 842 882 Ex 20 (booking essential)

Thu 2 April Take a Bow

Classic Blues/Rock power trio.

Fri 6th Mar - 7.30pm - £8 to £10

Back to Broadway All the best-loved songs from the greatest musicals!

Sat 7th Mar - 7.30pm - £14 to £15

Diamondz Showcase The athletes & dancers hold National Championship titles Mon 9th Mar - 7pm - £11

An Evening with Dean Park Comedian singing favourite Big Bands, Motown, Country etc.

Sat 14th Mar - 7.30pm - £16.50

Luke Danskin - Psychic Medium Lukes natural warmth makes audiences feel completely at ease.

Over 16’s. Tues 17th Mar - 7.30pm - £12 to £15

Birkmyre Park, Broomknowe Road, Kilmacolm 10am

Two rugby matches are played: one between two School teams (the Captain’s XV versus the Vice Captain’s XV) and the second between two former pupil teams. Join us afterwards for refreshments in Junior School along with the presentation of awards and an opportunity to hear more about the School’s plans.

Three’s A Crowd Bernie’s Cafe Deli, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir 8pm

Local Ladies Writing & Drama Group, Take a Bow, presents an evening of comedy, tragedy, poetry, good company and great wine! Tickets £5 - available at Bernie’s.

An aerial dance theatre show.

Thur 19th Mar - 7.30pm - £10 to £12

Garbage Band Workshop Bring your homemade junk instruments along to the concert.

Sat 21st Mar - 1pm - £2

Junk Trunk From dustbin drum-kits to trash band tom toms and hosepipe horns.

Sat 21st Mar - 3pm - £5

Songs as Bui- Doi, Why God, Why, Last Night of the World.

Wed 25th - Sat 28th March - 7.30pm - £13 to £16

KidO Scottish Opera’s new show for 3-4 year olds and carers.

Thur 26th - Friday 27th Mar - Various Times - £5

Champions of Magic Disappearances, teleportation & levitation.

Sun 29th Mar - 7.30pm - £16.50 to £19.50 BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723

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REGULAR

events

every Monday Now in its thirteenth year, the Glasgow International Comedy Festival offers nearly 106,000 tickets for 400 shows at 46 venues all over the city.

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

Grab a copy of our star studded 2015 programme (you can download it on the website).

Knitting Group

A whole host of top tier acts come to some of the city’s biggest theatres:

Line Dancing

Jimmy Carr, Stewart Lee and Dylan Moran play highly-anticipated shows at the Clyde Auditorium.

Radio Scotland star Fred MacAulay leads a packed King’s Theatre programme including Al Murray, Tom Stade and Michelle McManus, a gala benefit Stand Up For MND with Frankie Boyle and Stewart Francis, and an already sold out performance of Burnistoun: Live and For Real!

We take over the Citizens Theatre for a full two week run with top acts including Shappi Khorsandi, Paul Chowdhry, Mark Steel and John Shuttleworth.

You can book tickets via our website or by calling the box office on 0844 873 7353.

Visit the website for a full list of shows:www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

This event will not take place on a public holiday

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

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Bishopton Primary School 7pm - 8.30pm

All abilities welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212.

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

Antique Bishopton Art Valuation Day Group’s Spring with TV Personality Anita Manning Art & Craft Fair and Great Western Auctions

On Saturday 7th March between 10am and 3pm at Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton, Bishopton Art Group will hold their annual Spring Art and Craft Fair. A tearoom with home baking will also be available. Admission is free.

Conservation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

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

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

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

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

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

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

2nd Wednesday monthly Inverclyde Carers Outreach

Wednesday 8th April 10am - 3pm (doors open 9am) in Paisley Abbey.

Tickets £10 includes entry, tea/ coffee/maximum of 3 items valued Entry only: £5 Cloister Café open throughout day Paisley Abbey Church – Registered Charity No. SC007633

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am-2pm

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

3rd Friday monthly

Paisley Abbey

Hearing Aid Clinic The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1-2pm

2nd Saturday monthly

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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‘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.

Sunday 22nd March 7.30pm

last Saturday monthly

Choir of Paisley Abbey - Orchestra of Early Instruments

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

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!!

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

Alongside the exhibition of paintings will be a variety of homemade crafts by local craftspeople that will also be on sale.

Mr William Stewart, Chairman of Bishopton Art Group said,

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

FARMERS

There will be a good selection of paintings on display. The paintings cover a variety of styles and mediums and are all by members of Bishopton Art Group, who are all amateur artists.

The paintings can be purchased too.

St John Pasion - J S Bach

Directed by George McPhee

“Our Spring Art and Craft Fair gives the artists and craftspeople the opportunity to display their talent, for visitors to appreciate their efforts and if so desired buy a unique work of art or craft. I’m sure that some would make a perfect gift for Mother’s Day.” “Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with homemaking at the Fair.”

Soloists Stuart Patterson (Tenor) Evangelist Mark Rowlinson (Bass) Christus Andrew Tipple (Bass) Libby Crabtree (Soprano) Grace Durham (Alto) David Lee (Tenor) Tickets: £15 (Nave) £20 (Gallery) £5 (student) Available from Abbey Shop; Abbey Office (0141 889 7654); at the door.

Recitals at 12.30pm on Saturday 28th March – Paisley Abbey Strings & Saturday 25th April – Peter Wilson (Tenor). Tickets £5 at the door Coffee Mornings at 10am on Saturday 4th April & Saturday 25th April.

Paisley Abbey Church – Registered Charity No. SC007633

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18th-29th March Pre festival events Saturday 7th March

Poetry-Writing reserve

Workshop

Sunday 15th March

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RSPB

11am - 12noon - free

Sunday 22nd March

Ballroom Dancing class with Louie Fecou - Lochwinnoch Bowling Club

Karine Polwart Voice workshop McKillop Hall

Calder Drama - The Lemonade Factory Murders! - McKillop Hall

2pm - 3.30 - £2 Book in advance

10 - 11am - £5 - Book in advance

7.30pm £6 (con £4) - Bar

Opening of the Photography Exhibition - Castle Semple Visitor Centre 1pm opening by invitation - Free A Night at the Opera with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and The Melville Wind quintet - Parish church 7.30pm - £5 (con £2.50) Monday 23rd March

Lochwinnoch Writers with Bernard MacLaverty - McKillop Hall 7.30pm £5 (con £2.50) - Light refreshments

Wednesday 18th March

7.30pm - Opening by invitation Free Thursday 19th March

Glasgow Theatre Guild - Musicality Parish church 7.30pm - £5 (con £2.50)

Friday and Saturday 27th and 28th March

Festival Friday and Saturday Live music - Pubs and junction tbc Friday 27th March

Calder Drama - The Lemonade Factory Murders! - McKillop Hall 7.30pm - £6 (con £4) - Bar Saturday 28th March

Catherine MacPhail Writer teenagers - McKillop Hall

for

10.30am - £5 (con £2.50)

Main festival events Art Exhibition opening - Lochwinnoch Library

Thursday 26th March

Craft Fair - McKillop Hall 1pm – 4pm - Free entry & Free tea and coffee

Friday and Saturday - 20th and 21st March

Krafty Kids Parish church 1.30pm - 3pm - £5

Festival weekend Live music - Pubs and Junction - tbc Friday 20th March

Susie Lamont pupils - Parish Church 7pm Donation for charity Capitol Big Band with The Factory Street Quartet - McKillop Hall 8pm - £8 (con £5) Bar Saturday 21st March

Craft fair - McKillop Hall 1pm – 4pm - Free entry & Free tea and coffee Karine Polwart, Willie Gamble and Katee Kross - McKillop Hall 7.30pm - £8

Tuesday 24th March

Music with Witches’ Brew and the Small Fezzes at Lochwinnoch Elderly Forum Drop-in T Bar McKillop Hall 11am - Free Rock Choir with local artists Jade Wishart and Cara Dickson - Parish church 7.30pm - £5 (con £2.50) Wednesday 25th March

Family Poems with Betty McKellar, Witches’ Brew and Fran? - RSPB reserve

Church concert, The Woman at the Well Calder church 7pm - £5 (con £2.50) Rose Room jazz band - McKillop Hall 7.30pm - £8 (con £5) Bar Sunday 29th March

Workshops - fiddle, percussion, accordion, mixed instruments - Parish church 2.30pm – 4.30pm - £5 - Book in advance - 5pm free concert Finale Lochwinnoch Choral society tbc

7.30pm - Donations to RSPB

For further information, or to book, please visit our website at www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk or call Morag Thow 07868 752814.

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www.advertizer.co.uk Our 2015 Annual Awards programme applications process is now open with a deadline of Friday 13th March

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Diaporama The audio-visual group this month was hosted by Gerry and Hugh and it was great to have 2 visitors. We had a grand total of 11 shows which took us all over the world. We started in Kilmacolm with a gentle look at garden rhododendrons and azaleas. We then visited the Aegean coast in Turkey, Antigua, the Victoria Falls in Africa and a lovely visit to Tokyo, Japan.

The charity supports the UK's most talented young instrumentalists aged five to 17 years of age who, because of financial need, may be prevented from fulfilling their creative potential.

Maximum Value: £2,000

Minimum Value: £200

Awards for Young Musicians (AYM) is a registered charity. The organisation is the outcome of one man's consuming interest in music: Robert Lewin was a musician and musical instrument collector whose enthusiasm and passion for stringed instruments led him to accumulate a collection of instruments and bows of extraordinary quality.

Support is available for instrumentalists making music in any genre. The key criteria are: • Aged between five and seventeen years.

• From a lower income family • Exceptional musical talent and potential • Settled status in the UK on 1 September 2014. This means applicants are a British Citizen or have been granted leave to enter or remain in the UK for an indefinite period or have a certificate of right of adobe and on 1 September 2015 have been ordinarily resident in the UK for a minimum of two years.

Previous applicants (successful or otherwise) are welcome to apply again.

Award payments are made to institutions, music organisations, music teachers and other supplier. Awards are not made directly to students of their families.

Back in UK Gerry showed a sequence ‘Travels with a Doggy’ which took us to lots of places all over the country (including the seaside in the sunshine!) We had a look at the beautiful Cutty Sark, the Falkirk Wheel and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Hugh did a show about reflections which raised a lot of discussions. We ended the evening with a visit to the Orkney Islands. A great evening!

AYM aims to help with many of the major costs of music education. Awards can help with costs including the following: • Private music lessons • Fees for long term music making courses eg. specialist music schools/ Junior Departments of the music colleges, Saturday music schools.

• Instrument purchase hire • Fees for special courses, eg. composing courses, music technology courses, orchestras, bands, chamber groups.

• Travel to lessons/ courses (long and short term) • Accessories, such as software, strings, reeds, cases, mouthpieces, sheet music.

• Master classes or workshops with orchestras and other professional music making organisations.

Next month it is ‘Les Girls return show’ on Monday 9th March, 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre, Houston. Visitors always welcome!

Beauty Blog

by Laura Smillie of Laura's Nail & Beauty Lounge Hello everyone and welcome to our first Beauty Blog.

In the forthcoming months we will discuss and clarify many matters of beauty and wellbeing. I hope you’ll find the topics informative and useful.

What is the difference between a ‘Swedish’ and ‘Deep Tissue’ Massage?

Applicants may be required to provide the remainder of any costs from alternative sources.

Contact Details: Hannah Turner, Awards for Young Musicians, PO Box 2754, Bristol BS4 9DA Tel: 0300 302 0023 Email: hannah.turner@ay-m.org.uk http://www.a-y-m.org/ how-we-help/awards/

A ‘Swedish’ massage is a full body, stress relieving massage.

The goal is to calm the central nervous system while promoting blood circulation and the release of toxins. This is traditionally regarded as a relaxation massage.

A ‘Deep Tissue’ massage focuses on the deeper layers of the muscle tissue. It aims to release deep tension in your muscles. It is especially helpful for aches and pains such as a stiff neck and back aches. The strokes utilised are similar to that used in ‘Swedish’ massage, however, the movements are slower and more intense in order to address problematic areas.

If you have any queries regarding the above topic, contact us at Laura’s Nail & Beauty Lounge on 01505 690090 or on our Facebook page.

Laura

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history

The History Spot - The Castle of Houston Last month we saw how the old village of Houston was transformed into a new planned village from the 1780s. Directly to the east of the old village and church lay Houston House or Castle, which stood on a mound fronting a long avenue stretching down to the River Gryfe.

The tower is referred to as early as the 1460s, as the Nether Mains of Houston, with castle, woods and hunting grounds. By the seventeenth century the castle seems to have been of Disneyland style - a square tower, consisting of four sides around a central courtyard. The parapet overlooked the whole countryside from an elevated mound. The south or front elevation looked towards the River Gryfe and had two turrets, flanking an arched entrance with a portcullis. Underneath was a vaulted basement.

Due to the changes of owners and transformation of the estate around the time of the forming of the planned village, there was little evidence to confirm these descriptions. However the newly discovered estate plans, c.1780, show that the descriptions weren’t fantasy, but were in fact correct. They show a large square keep with a central courtyard, elevated on a mound. Even the turrets flanking the entrance can be seen on the plan.

The castle had a grand elevated setting, possibly on an earlier motte. It was surrounded by parks and woodland. Around the house was a garden and bowling green. To one side was a ‘Pigeonhouse Park’ with a doocot. The great tree-lined avenue led south towards the River Gryfe.

By the 1780s towerhouses were in decline. Three sides of the castle were knocked down shortly after the survey was carried out, and the stone was allegedly used to clad the fronts of the new houses in Houston village. By this time the castle was described as being ‘once a large and very ancient mansion overlooking the whole country, from one of the finest spots’. By that time, only the east wing of the castle remained, but in a ruined condition, only big enough ‘to accommodate any ordinary family’.

BIG Dinner Please join in the BIG dinner for 500 miles! All you have to do is have a dinner (or breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea!) on or around 7th March - and ask your guests to make a donation to 500 miles in return for your hospitality.

You can host at home or at a venue or where your club usually meets. The £25 registration fee will allow you to watch two programmes showcasing 500 miles’ work - with a bit of celebrity sparkle.

Read more and register at www.bigdinner.co.uk. Thank you!

© 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 the 10th March and will be our AGM followed by a quiz compiled by one of our members. The 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 Society. We have now added an old Ordinance Survey map of Johnstone 1895 and a pictorial map of the Clyde Valley to our range of books and publications we have for sale. The audio visual unit is now running a selection of old Johnstone pictures which you are welcome to come in and have a look at.

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iT blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom The big news in tech last month was Microsoft’s unveiling of Windows 10, their new operating system due later this year. First glimpses look promising, with the Start Menu back where it ought to be and doing what it ought to do (other than turning the computer off). What got the tech community so excited about the launch is that Microsoft is offering it FREE! It has been rumoured for a while that Microsoft may offer its newest OS free to current users of Windows 8, but the surprise has been that they have unveiled plans to offer Windows 10 to all Windows 7 users too. This plan would see Microsoft move towards the Mac model of free OS upgrades for compatible kit. The free upgrade is supposedly available for one year from the date of release, some months off, although few can see them pulling the idea once they launch.

This may be the answer to a lot of beleaguered Windows 8.1 users who never took to the confused operating system although in recent months, some changes to Windows 8.1 have stabilised the software dubbed by one of my customers as being ‘pure cack’.

When Windows 10 arrives I will be offering a fixed fee to all my customers and newsletter readers for a collect and return upgrade to the latest operating system.

Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley It seems to have been all about food recently one way or another. It started with our successful fund raising Burns Supper moving via the Food Train and Food Bank Charities to our own sociable Valentine’s Evening at the River Inn. At the final January meeting John Webster gave a brief outline of the activities of the Food Train charity. John described how the charity is helping the elderly in Renfrewshire by shopping for them and delivering to their homes. They have just acquired a third van and are looking for volunteer drivers, shoppers etc. This was followed by our own club member Bob Ross.

Bob’s talk was entitled “ Don’t get me started” in which he satirised aspects of Christmas, shopping for electronics, Starbucks, designer gear, health and safety, hypermarkets, traffic calming, cones, mobile phones on the train and other public places, TV programmes, telephone sales – all with great humour. He finished by playing a spoof telephone conversation between a bank’s English Call Centre and a Scottish East Coast customer.

At the first meeting in February the speaker was Roslyn McVey, manager of the Renfrewshire Food Bank. Roslyn explained that the Food Bank was one of a number organised by The Trussell Trust, and explained the charity’s origins working in Bulgaria. She described how clients were given vouchers by various authorities which they could exchange for food and the circumstances which resulted in clients needing support from the food bank. In the UK 983,000 people including 330,000 children were helped by the food banks. There was a lively discussion following the talk and Roslyn answered many questions.

A full programme of fundraising and other activities is currently being finalised: February saw the formal launch of the Toy and Resource Library Project in association with Capability Scotland. This year’s 10K Run on Sunday, April 26th, will be one of the events making a contribution towards the project.

Monday, March 2nd, (6.45pm) will be the local heat of the Annual Primary School Quiz. This will be held courtesy of the Royal British Legion in Bridge of Weir. The Primary Schools taking part are Bridge of Weir, Houston and St Fillans.

Saturday, March 7th, will see a series of “Big Dinners” in aid of the 500 miles charity run by Olivia Giles which supports amputees and others with mobility difficulties, principally in Malawi and Zambia.

Wednesday, March 11th, (7pm for 7.30pm) is an Open Evening with guest speaker Amanda McMillan OBE, Managing Director of Glasgow Airport who will talk about her career, the future of the airport and the support given to local good causes via the Flightpath Fund.

Anyone interested should contact Mike Farley (01505 613314) for an invitation. Further details at www. gryffevalley-rotary.org.uk or on our Facebook page.

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CGI Makeover For Theory Test DVSA have announced that the hazard perception clips in the theory tests will be replaced with new computer generated imagery (CGI) clips.

Filmed video clips have been used to test candidates’ reactions to developing hazards on the road.

The scenarios in these clips are still relevant, but the image quality isn’t as clear or defined as modern digital technology allows.

The first new clips show the same situations as the filmed clips, but are clearer on the screen and include updated vehicles, roads and surroundings to reflect modern day driving.

The way the hazard perception part of the theory test works won’t be changing. The pass mark will stay the same.

The clips feature everyday road scenes and contain at least one ‘developing hazard’ - but one of the clips will feature two ‘developing hazards’.

LEAP LEAP Benefit from Climate Challenge’s latest round of Funding to Local Communities to help tackle Climate Change - with a further 12 months of funding for 2 exciting projects The latest round of Climate Challenge Fund awards will see 33 communityled projects share £2.86 million, Climate Change Minister Aileen McLeod announced at the end of January.

The Fund has helped communities throughout Scotland reduce, reuse and recycle their waste, increase the energy efficiency of homes and community buildings, encourage active travel and the use of low-carbon transport, and promote and produce local food.

LEAP (Local Energy Action Plan) has secured £129,884 over a 12 month period from 1st April 2015 to enable householders in Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield, Lochwinnoch, Kilbarchan and Bridge of Weir to reduce the amount of energy they use in their homes and daily lives. The Calder and Gryffe Community project will focus on areas requested by the communities and will be delivered by a local community charity that aims to help residents improve carbon efficiency. Project activities will include home energy advice, an energy shop, development of a community wood fuel co-op and a Centre of Carbon Excellence, plus further promotion of LEAP Car Club and support for electric vehicles.

LEAP’s (Youth Engagement Programme) Yep! Will benefit from £56,919 over a similar time period to run is a series of hands-on green vocational skills workshops, pop-up events and social gatherings devised by and for young people across the four communities of Lochwinnoch, Bridge of Weir, Howwood and Kilbarchan in Renfrewshire. Through a range of engaging activities the project will enable young people to learn about their environment and gain practical skills they can use to reduce their carbon emissions.

Carol Gemmell, LEAP Project Manager said ‘ We are delighted that further funding has been secured to allow the LEAP project to continue to deliver services within our local communities. To be able to expand the Youth Engagement Pilot, devised by local young people, is particularly exciting”.

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bishopton, langbank ..................................................... & bridge of weir Bridge of Weir Messy Church There will be a double dose of Messy church in March!! This year Messy Church would fall on Easter Day. Many of us will be away visiting family so we have decided to bring it forward to Sunday 29th March.

Last month, we enjoyed building Goliath out of junk boxes and making catapults like young David. We also made some very messy sheep with marshmallow fluff.

On 1st March our theme will be Queen Esther and on 29th March our theme will be Easter. Both followed by hot food. On Easter day, the cross outside Freeland church will be decorated with flowers again to symbolise the hope and new life that is celebrated on Easter Day. Anyone is welcome to come and put a flower on the cross at anytime and obviously all are welcome to attend the Easter Day service at 10.30am.

Please just turn up on the day but if you have any questions, contact Catherine Daly on 07980 649377

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church The Masqueraders Following the success of the last 2 years, the Masqueraders are holding another concert this year which will be held on Saturday 25th April in St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall. The group are currently rehearsing regularly for this, and another entertaining night is greatly anticipated! Tickets are £5 each and are available by phoning 01505 612470.

BoW Gala Festival Gala Week is held during the second week in June and planning is now well under way for this year’s events. The Gala Queen selection will take place in early March and application forms are available from the local primary schools and in Bridge of Weir Library.

Bridge of Weir’s Festival Week has been a feature of our summer for many years and it has been run by various groups. Since 2002, however, it has been organised exclusively by the Bridge of Weir Festival Committee.

The committee is made up of local residents whose aim is to continue the community spirit that events such as the Gala Day and Festival Week engender in towns and villages throughout the land. That spirit is maintained by engaging with all of the community - businesses, schools, churches, youth groups and other partner organisations such as the Community Council, the Tenants and Residents’ Association (TARA), Brighter Bridge of Weir, and others.

The committee’s work is not confined to Festival Week, however. Every year since 2001, in the build-up to Christmas our ‘Santa’s Sleigh’ tours the village playing festive season music while raising funds - not just for Festival Week, but for many of the local community groups from senior citizens’ to play schools. In fact, it’s been so successful that it now includes the surrounding communities of Kilmacolm, Houston, Brookfield and Quarrier’s Village.

Bridge of Weir Festival Committee works year long to help maintain a feeling of community and wellbeing in our village.

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Many drivers have expressed their annoyance about the 50% reduction in speed limit to 30 mph on the A761 through Brookfield thinking it to be excessively cautious, while the B790 road between Bridge of Weir and Gryffe High school in Houston is at 40 mph and has many more pedestrians, mostly school children, walking there and back. The fact that the police are regularly in Brookfield with speed cameras tends to back this up. Perhaps some reversal of the situation in Brookfield should be considered, with a move from 30 to 40 and only have the old restricted stretch through the village staying at 30. If there is enough interest to change the current situation then I would be happy to organise a petition.

Parking at Bishopton Station is causing problems for the residents. There are a number of variables that will be affecting the current situation. Until recently there was no official order so parking tickets could not be issued, but now some of the restricted parking area boxes on Station Road have been repainted and the restrictions will start to be enforced. The ongoing work to the new disabled ramp is affecting around 30 to 40 spaces. These should be returned to use when the ramp is complete. BAE are obliged to provide a further 100 parking spaces in due course. Erection of a “multi-storey” car park in Johnstone may be increasing the traffic in Bishopton as signs direct commuters to park and travel from Bishopton while work continues. I am hoping that in time the situation will improve, but I am happy to receive feedback.

Surgeries: 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) Contact: 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.

Langbank SWRI D.E.R.A.

On Thursday 19th March we will be having a 'Taste and Try' at 7.30pm in The Village Centre, Middlepenny Road with Christine Kyle. Competitions for the evening are: 1) Three cream meringues. 2) Handmade apron.

3) Old kitchen utensil.

Bridge of Weir SWRI Our next meeting takes place on Thursday 5th March at 7.30pm in the British Legion with our speaker Gaynor Herd from the Craft Centre.

All members and visitors will be made very welcome.

Donaldfield Estate Resident Association

Notice to all residents - Due to a poor turnout at the last meeting, the AGM and Open Meeting will be held on Thursday 5th March at 7.30pm in the Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. Light refreshments will be available after meeting. Views and comments welcome to the Secretary : alisonross256@btinternet.com

RagBag Recycle Bin A permanent RagBag Recycle bin is 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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Bishopton Community Council The Community Liaison Group have recently met with the Community Health Partnership to establish what will be the long term provision for health care in the Village. At the start of the new development on the R.O.site the Community had been assured that a new Health Centre would be part of the planning gain.

The health Board are not prepared to commit to a new Health Centre as they seem only to respond to numbers. At present there are 278 houses completed and occupied on the site but there has only been 130 registrations at the health centre. Some of the houses will have been taken by people from the village so we are asking that if people are new to the village in either the old or new parts they register with the current health centre as soon as they can.

The continuing dialogue with the Education Dept has indicated that they are now basing their projections on 1 child for every 4 houses occupied which is considerably better than the 1 child per 7 houses that was the original estimate.

Reality is showing it is possibly closer to 1 per household which makes the projection of a new primary school only after 1741 house completions somewhat fanciful. At least the education department are monitoring the situation on a three month basis.

The Community Trust is now in place and once the legal paperwork is in place the first tranche of funds will become a reality. The fact that there is only about 100 occupancies to go before the trigger point is reached for the transfer of the Holm Park playing fields to the Community Trust some activity in that area can be expected in 2015.

Work is about to start on the link road that will connect the North and South accesses to the development site and this is due for completion in 2015 The new disabled access ramp to the Railway Station from the R.O. Side of the Station is now well underway and due for completion by Easter. Once completed the car park will get back to its old capacity which will easy the congestion in the Station area.

Early work on the new motorway access to the East of the Village will start this year in anticipation of the 600th house being occupied which is anticipated some time in 2016.

The Bridge Spring is upon us and, already in The Bridge, we are planning for Christmas 2015. Alison Bannerman is drawing our much acclaimed Christmas card and members of the Paisley Colour Photographic Club are taking photographs for the 2016 Calendar.

Greeting Cards/Postcards: A few of the photographs used in the 2015 calendar are being printed as postcards and will be on sale during March - ideal for sending to friends to showcase our village.

Mother’s Day is celebrated on the 15th March. Show how much your Mum means to you by sending a card from our selection.

Easter Sunday is celebrated on 5th April. Brighten up someone’s day by sending an Easter Greetings card from our colourful display.

Centre Users: Many residents of Bridge of Weir are continuing to make use of the expertise of two of our service providers – the Citizens Advice Bureau and the Hard of Hearing Clinic.

Laura’s Nail & Beauty Lounge has now been established for over a year in Bridge of Weir. As many of you will know we offer many fabulous treatments.

Natural nails is our passion, so of course we offer OPI Gelcolor polish in a vast array of colours that can last 10 to 14 days.

We have a treatment room where all aspects of body and facial waxing are offered as well as eyebrow shaping and tinting and our exclusive LVL natural lash lift.

Enter our luxurious therapy room where you can choose from our range of relaxing or deep tissue stimulating massages.

Our purpose built spray tan room with full ventilation system has been a great success in producing many beautiful natural tans.

Scheduling that essential ‘Me Time’ couldn’t be easier, contact us by phone, text or on our popular Facebook page where you will discover many exclusive Lounge offers.

Post Office: The usual postal services are provided during opening hours by Donald, Pat and Anne.

Volunteers: Do you have a spare 4 hours once a month? If so, please consider becoming a volunteer in The Bridge. Do not worry about lack of experience as another friendly volunteer will be only too happy to assist.

Trustees Annual Report: the report and accounts for the third year of The Bridge were approved by the trustees on 21st January. A copy is available at The Bridge for your perusal.

01505-690090 07872-929798 37 Main Street, Bridge of Weir

The Bridge – Your Community Centre, Shop and Post Office. (Opening Hours: Mon – 9am to 5pm (PO closed 12 noon to 12.30pm); Tues & Fri – 1pm to 5pm; Wed & Thu – 10am to 2pm; Sat – 9am to 1pm)

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

Door to Door Poppy Power A Bishopton door to door Poppy Collection in November raised an excellent sum of £1936.36 - over and above what was collected in the local commercial outlets.

Pat Woodrow, who coordinates the door to door collection, would like to thank all her volunteers who do the rounds, the staff of the Post Office who count and record the cash from the collection cans and the Bishopton community for their contributions. Maybe it was a bit more high profile this year being the Centenary of the start of the First World War or simply Pat had more bodies collecting but this year’s collection was up on 2013.

Bridge Of Weir Choral Society Saturday 25th April The choir, with their musical director Christopher Barr, is busy rehearsing the works to be included in this year’s annual Spring concert which promises to be both tuneful and exciting.

The main work to be performed will be Karl Jenkins’ thrilling “The Armed Man” which is fast becoming a favourite performance piece. The rest of the concert will consist of favourite opera choruses which members have requested to sing. These include Verdi’s ‘Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves’ from Nabucco, the ‘Anvil’ chorus from Il Trovatore and ‘Habanero’ from ‘Carmen’ by Bizet. Soloists and instrumentalists will include students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Tickets priced £10 will be available soon from members. Further details in next month’s Advertizer. www. bridgeofweirchoral.org.uk

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As is always the case, many hands make light work so Pat would welcome any volunteers who would be prepared to help with the 2015 collection especially now that the village is growing quite considerably and some collectors, after many years stalwart service, wish to relinquish their patch.

Bridge of Weir TARA At the latest meeting of Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association, we welcomed the new Community Police Inspector Cassie Glass. The police report for the past four weeks showed there were 6 crimes committed within the village, of which only one was detected, and this concerned a dangerous dog attack on another dog. We are to get two dedicated rural police officers, who will be based in the new Johnstone Town Hall and who will cover Bridge of Weir, Houston and Kilbarchan.

Residents are asked to remain vigilant as opportunist housebreakers continue to plague the village and any suspicious people or vehicles should be reported on 101.

Councillor James MacLaren has inspected the traffic lights sited on Houston Road and the lights are to have their sequencing altered to accommodate school runs.

The Community Wardens reported that so far only one fly-tipping fine of £200 has been issued in the village and this was on Boxing Day. Residents are reminded that you can be fined £80 if spotted dropping litter, even if its only a cigarette, so dispose of your litter responsively The Wardens received ten calls regarding dog fouling and this blight on the village continues unabated, please dog owners, “Bag it and Bin it”!

Graham Hanley gave a report on the Shillingworth housing application by Persimmon/Charles Church for erection of 50 houses with 4/5/6 bedrooms this is despite on the local development plan it was supposed to be only 40 houses with 3/4/5 bedrooms! There are serious concerns about the impact this proposed development will have on schools, roads, doctors and other services within the village. We believe you can still write to Renfrewshire Council quoting 14/0831/ PP000104112-001 with any objections.

The next meeting of the Association will on the 17th March in the Pirie Centre at Freeland Church and starts at 7.30pm.

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Over 350 people have signed the petition to make the junction onto the A8 at Langbank safer. This represents more than one signature per household in the village – it is clear that Transport Scotland need to take action to improve safety at this roundabout, particularly for those who are trying to access the A8 to travel towards Glasgow.

The frosty conditions and heavy rainfall in February caused significant damage to roads and pavement across Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank. I have asked for several potholes to be repaired – and for gritting to be prioritised at several points. In particular I have asked for the shops in Livery Walk Bridge of Weir on Greenock Road in Bishopton to be given special attention. I was pleased to allocate additional funding for roads and pavements in the council budget for 2015-16 taking spending to approaching £4million for this area of work.

Bridge of Weir Community Council The Community Council welcomed Inspector Cassie Glass, the new Community Policing Inspector for Johnstone and the Villages. She informed us of the consultation for the amalgamation of K and L divisions and the changes that will affect the senior ranks, however there should be no reduction in local policing as an additional 6 officers are to be added to the areas force.

The Local Community Police are having two Officers dedicated to rural policing matters, contact details will be available soon.

She also informed the meeting that the area has seen a reduction in violent crime, and a special team has been formed to investigate the number of housebreakings in Bridge of Weir and neighbouring towns and villages.

Despite a budget cut of 17% in the past 5 years from the Scottish Government (whose own budget has been cut by 10% on a like for like basis), the council budget has prioritised services for our children and elderly. There is additional money going in to education and we will not be cutting teacher numbers. In addition we will be allocating a further £3million into social work services to meet the needs of vulnerable children, adults and the elderly.

Bishopton has a new twitter and facebook account – you can follow them at Bishopton_Comm or like the facebook site – Bishopton Community. It’s full of useful information about what’s going on in the village and news of local groups and activities.

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.

Thieves are targeting high performance cars and motor cycles, and residents and businesses are reminded to lock their premises, garages and sheds and keep household alarms switched on.

The meeting heard that agents representing the current owners of the Whitelint Gate site have made an informal approach to Renfrewshire Council to develop the site with a potential 200 houses and a retail development. This interest is not encouraged by Renfrewshire Council and the indicative number of units is not welcomed. The Community Council will be keeping a watchful eye on this and resisting any application that is likely to have an adverse effect on the village.

Renfrewshire Council’s Planning Department are to undertake new suggestions for land use change for inclusion in the next local plan. Developers are to be given the opportunity to submit their proposals for potential housing sites, this will be followed by a consultation in the spring when comment can be made.

The upgrade of the '20’s plenty' signage on Lintwhite Crescent is to be completed for March.

David MacDonald representing St Machar’s Ranfurly Church gave a short presentation regarding proposed tree works on the site of the church, the meeting was favourable to these proposals.

The Chairman agreed to attend a meeting with McGill’s buses to be organised by Councillor Holmes.

The recent erection of a box for faster broadband at the post box on Main Street is to be welcomed.

However the works did highlight the poor condition of the pavement at Gryffe Grove / Main Street corner, a request has been made for the complete resurfacing of the pavement.

Within the next few weeks the Community Council will be introducing their Facebook page, more details next month, in the meantime if you want to get in touch visit us on www.bridgeofweir.org The next meeting is Tuesday 3rd March at 7pm in the Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir.

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

My wife and I officiated at the Grand Final Concert of the prestigious Inverclyde Music Festival, an accumulation of 2 weeks performances in over 400 categories. There were many performances by youngsters from Port Glasgow High School, Kilmacolm Primary and both St Columba’s Schools.

There were too many really good performances to mention, but I was taken by the solo Cello in the primary school category performed by Poppy Pitts of Bridge of Weir and Hilary Ewing-Mackie of Kilmacolm and the various PGHS ensembles.

I have just collected the Petition from the shops with regard to the waiting time and the use of Traffic Wardens in the village. Nine shops were used to give an even spread of usage and the number of petitioners was a staggering 713. There were a considerable number of signatories from the other Renfrewshire Villages who do not get the attention from Traffic Wardens that Kilmacolm gets. A great attraction is our seven coffee shops and you simply cannot have a coffee and wander the shops in 30 minutes. We are different in a village from a town like Greenock.

The Reverend John Chalmers the Moderator of the Church of Scotland is visiting the Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock from 7th to 15th March. This is a great honour and as part of a full diary I understand he will preach at Johnstone High Parish and will attend a Civic Reception afforded him by Inverclyde Council. It is his intention to meet as many people and organisations as possible.

The A761 has caused problems and I have received many complaints and it is high on our priority list for treatment. Officers intend to conduct major resurfacing works on the stretch up to our boundary with Renfrewshire and it will also involve improvements to the drainage, lining and reflective studs.

Works will commence following the completion of the bridge works in Quarriers Village.

Contact: david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk and 01475 712727 and 741969 and mobile 07766 992294.

Surgeries: 06 March Cargill from 11am-12noon and 23 March Boglestone Community Centre from 5-6pm.

MESSY CHURCH An Evening of

by Kilmacolm Old Music Kirk

Sunday 22nd March A fresh new way of experiencing Church - FUN event for all the family with lots of crafts and Lunch!

11am until approximately 2pm in Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm.

with St Columba’s School St Columba’s Church, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm. Wed 4 March at 7pm.

All proceeds to church roof repairs.

For tickets (£7), please contact the school on 01505 872768.

Le Twinning: Kilmacolm Pupils visit Mérignies The twinning agreement between Kilmacolm & Mérignies continues to bear fruit.

French teachers at St Columba’s School were introduced to English teachers at the College Privée Immaculée Conception in Seclin who set up skype contact between classrooms. There is no secondary school in Mérignies and many of their young people attend this school which is about 20 minutes drive from the village. The classroom contact, continued by pupils after school hours on social media, excited and energised everyone so much that the desire to set up an exchange visit took hold.

On January 22nd 24 SIV pupils and 2 members of staff flew to Paris to spend 4 nights with host families from the French school. The trip included a morning in the French school and a memorable afternoon visiting the picturesque city of Lille. Mayor Francis Mélon hosted a reception for the French host families and Scottish visitors on Saturday morning which included a tour of the village.

The sight of the saltire flying alongside the tricolore & European flag was very moving.

Kilmacolm Art Class Kilmacolm Art Class will be holding their annual exhibition on Friday 27th March (10am 5.30pm) and Saturday 28th March (10am - 4pm).

This year it is again being held in The New Community Centre, Kilmacolm, which is an exciting venue, and we hope that even more people than usual will come along to view this excellent show.

–

This visit, was a huge success and has truly cemented the relationship between our two villages with young people sharing in an experience that will bring cultural & linguistic benefits to all. The staff and pupils at St Columba’s are now looking forward to hosting the French school in June, the village looks forward to welcoming our French friends, and similar exchange visits of this kind in the future.

There are usually about 100 paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate water colours and palate knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets Whether you are looking for contemporary, abstract or just an original art work to brighten your home, this could be the ideal opportunity. Please do come along and support the exhibition.

Entrance-Adults £1, Children over 5 years- 50p The art class has sessions on Thursday morning and afternoon in St Fillans church hall with a resident retired art teacher (Tom Murray) in attendance to help and give advice or moral support. New members at all levels would be most welcome. Contact Janice Sinclair, Secretary Tel: 01505 873141 or ask at the Exhibition.

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Afternoon Tea Saturday 28th March from 2.30pm 4pm, Kilmacolm Guide Hut Kilmacolm Guides, Brownies and Rainbows would like to invite you to Welcome in Spring with Afternoon Tea. There will be a section of teas and a wonderful selection of home baked cakes. Please come along and see all the developments that have been made in the area surrounding the hut and the newly re-furbished floor!

Entry £3 includes tea and cakes.

OUTLOOK 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.

On Thursday 5th March we welcome back David Walker to show us part two of his slide presentation of Glasgow Architecture. All those who saw part one last year will tell you what a treat it is to see Glasgow from a talented photographer’s angle.

On Thursday 19th March the Topic of Interest is the Kilmacolm/Port Glasgow Agricultural Society. Their president, Angus Black, and friends, will tell us a little of the history of the Society, share some highlights and pictures to get us in the mood for the 180th Show on Saturday 9th May. OUTLOOK provides afternoon tea plus community issues, activities, quiz etc.

Please join us, everyone is most welcome. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393.

Bread & Cheese Lunch The Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christian Aid committee are holding a Bread and Cheese Lunch in Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm at 12.15pm on Sunday 29th March. A simple lunch of homemade soups, delicious breads and a variety of cheeses, plus tea/coffee and shortbread will be served. Everyone is welcome to attend the Lunch; all we ask for is a donation to our charity, in exchange for your traditional Sunday lunch - your donation will help many many people who struggle to find food to feed themselves or their families, suffering extreme poverty or homelessness or civil wars. Christian Aid is out there offering help in the darkest places. Come and enjoy our Bread and Cheese Lunch, bring your family and friends and contribute to Christian Aid. Thank you.

Kilmacolm Civic Trust AGM Tuesday 24th March starting at 7.30pm - The Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm Programme:- 7.30pm–8.15pm: Formal AGM business. 8.30pm-9.30pm: A talk

by Gerry Boyle on the Twinning of Mérignies and Kilmacolm.

Gerry will explain how it was achieved and the benefits that will accrue to Kilmacolm as a result. The talk is open to all members of KCT and residents of Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village, and Surrounding Countryside who are not members of KCT. The latter will be very welcome and should aim to join us just after 8.15pm.

Kilmacolm Institute

At Kilmacolm Cross, the closed Institute building (old Library) and neighbouring shops (formerly Hugh Rose) have fallen into serious disrepair. The main display window of the “Green” shop is leaning out to the pavement and slates regularly fall from the roof, therefore presenting a danger to the public. Inverclyde Council is expecting the submission of an application for demolition warrant.

Although no timescale is yet available, due to the deteriorating condition of the buildings, the Council is willing do what it can to assist in early approval of a warrant. Some technical issues related to adjoining structures will need consideration, but it’s expected that the warrant application will contain structural engineering input.

If we hear any more we’ll keep you posted.

Angel Voices Choir St Fillan’s Angel Voices Choir retained the trophy for the under 11’s Mixed Choir Section of the Inverclyde Festival. The Choir members represent four local schools. They gave a delightful performance of two songs, Simple Gifts and Consider Yourself from the musical Oliver. The Festival adjudicator commented that Angel Voices is a small choir and has young members and some more experienced singers and they blended well together. The choir’s Musical Director is Helen Knight, a professional teacher and singer and our talented accompanist is Archie Morris. New singers of boys and girls aged between 6 and 10 are very welcome – please come along to a rehearsal on Fridays at 6pm in St. Fillan’s Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm and give it a trial! Contact Maureen Russell (01505-872905)

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Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Society (Industrial Section)

Show Schedules now available for 2015 show at the usual outlets and new this year Abbey Vet Group Paisley and Greenock. The Industrial Section is open to all who reside in Inverclyde and Renfrewshire.

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World Day of Prayer In St Columba Church Hall, Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm, at 1.30pm on Friday 6th March. Written by the Christian Women of The Bahamas.

Jesus said to them, ‘Do you know what I have done to you?’

The local WDP group of representatives from the local Churches warmly welcomes you to share worship and fellowship with people around the world who will be participating in the World Day of Prayer. We are delighted that the children’s choir from Kilmacolm Primary School will be able to join us again with their singing and music. There will be refreshments after the Service.

Everyone welcome!

If you want to know more about the event, please give me a call. Maureen Russell Convenor (telephone 872905)

Holy Week KDS - Spring production of ‘Allo ‘Allo’ Coffee Morning - MND Services - Kilmacolm Dramatic Society’s Spring production of ‘Allo ‘Allo by Jeremy Lloyd &

St Columba Church of Scotland

David Croft is now well under way &, as you may recall from the television series of the same name, it contains mild adult humour.

The extensive cast is in twice weekly rehearsal, honing their Continental accents & trying not to ‘corpse’ at the risque bits!

Performances will be on the 22nd, 23rd, 24th & 25th April. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets priced at a mere £10 & available from the Cross Cafe in Kilmacolm on 01505 872502, or Rosie Thirde on 01505 873088. The theme of the evening is very much remembrance of the Second World War & the inception of KDS in 1944- so feel free to come in 40’s clothes, for the best of which there will be prizes. The proceeds of the raffle will be donated to Erskine to help care for their veterans, & there will be a collection for them in the Kidston Hall each night.

You are most welcome & we look forward to entertaining you.

Services will be held each evening from Monday 30th March to Friday 3rd April at 7.30pm In the large hall, Bridge of Weir Road.

MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Scotland are holding a Coffee Morning on Saturday 7th March in New Community Centre Kilmacolm from 10am - 12noon. Entry £3.

Speakers are : Rev Douglas Cranston, Rev Alistair Horne, Rev Gerry Middleton and Rev Jonathon De Groot.

Come and join us as we remember and rejoice in the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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

Kilbarchan’s Great War casualties.

Lance-Sergeant Thomas B. Gray, 6th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Of those named on the Kilbarchan War Memorials Lance-Sergeant Thomas B. Gray, 6th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, was the first to die. He was training for overseas service but died following an ear operation at the Royal Alexandra Infirmary, Paisley. He was 25 and had lived in Gateside Place, Kilbarchan until his marriage in February 1913 to Janet Laing, who was a thread mill worker. He worked as a pattern maker in the engineering works of Craig and Donald in Johnstone. He is buried at Kilbarchan Cemetery.

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Lost in WW1 - Plea for help Kilbarchan Park, Park View, Kilbarchan Colin Campbell is researching the people listed on the Kilbarchan war memorials.

Three people have caused a lot of difficulty: they are - Colin Campbell, Alexander Moir and Victor Drago. Nothing can be found about the first two. All that is known of Mr Drago is that, in 1912, he had an address at Easwald Bank, and that he was fined £1 or three days imprisonment for driving above the 20m.p.h.

Speed limit at Brechin!

If you can help please contact Colin Campbell at 01505 702713.

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register During the month of March, members will discuss well-known and more obscure Scottish battles and enjoy a talk by the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire with invited guests from the Bridge of Weir group. Several members will also travel to Edinburgh to see an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery entitled: Remembering the Great War. The NWR group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays and has a varied programme of speakers and discussion topics. If you’d like to find out more about NWR and the Kilbarchan group, please contact the website: www.nwr.org.

"A little Light Music" in the West Church 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.

Fashion Show

by Toggery

Friday 27th March - Lochwinnoch Parish Church Hall Doors open 6.30pm for 7pm. Ladies wear. Jewellery. Bags etc. Goods available for purchase on the night.

Credit/debit cards accepted. 10% of all purchases goes to the church.

Ticket £6 which includes a glass of wine and nibbles. Phone 01505 842365 to book tickets. You may bring your own bottle of wine if you wish.

Scottish Charity No. SCO14518

Kilbarchan Easter Eggstravaganza Churches The services for the Churches in Kilbarchan for the month of March will be as follows:Sunday 1st March - 11am and 6.30pm – Communion in East Church Sunday 8th March – 11am – Joint Service in West Church This popular Easter coffee morning will take place Saturday 28th March in Kilbarchan East Church hall from 10am-12noon. There will be an Easteregg hunt for the children in the church grounds, as well as a decorated egg and Easter bonnet competition. There will be stalls of home-baking and preserves and Easter gifts for the children and adults. Entrance £2, children £1, which includes hot-cross buns with coffee.

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Sunday 15th March – 11am – Joint Service in East Church Sunday 22nd March – 11am – Joint Service in West Church

Counting Down to Lilias Day 2015 Preparations for Kilbarchan’s Lilias Day 2015 are in full swing and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Last year saw a bumper crop of themed and decorated parade floats. Local organisations and individual streets in the village are once again being invited to take part in the fun. Demand for floats is high and they are currently being allocated so get in touch by emailing the committee on info@liliasday. co.uk.

There are also still places available to take part in the historic parade. Following a centuries old tradition, the historic parade lies at the heart of Lilias Day. Participants dress in beautifully designed period costumes and walk in the parade. Individuals, families and groups are all welcome (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult). Anyone interested should go along to the Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan on Sunday 22nd March between 2pm-4pm to choose a costume.

Just turn up on the day.

In a new addition a big prize raffle with £1000 cash prize is being organised in the lead up to the event with the winner drawn on the day.

The committee is still looking for nominations for this years’ Miss Lilias. The role is open to girls who live or work in Kilbarchan aged 16 over. If you know a young lady who would make a great Miss Lilias send your nomination to info@liliasday. co.uk and include a paragraph about why they would make a good candidate.

Contribution to the community, fundraising and personal achievements are all good reasons. Closing date for nominations is Tuesday 10th March.

The event will continue to provide fundraising opportunities for good causes and the Lilias Day committee are currently inviting applications from charities and local organisations to take a stall on the day. A Stall Holders Evening has been organised for Tuesday 10th March, 7pm, at The Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan with a 10% discount on stall prices being offered to those booking on the night.

For more information email info@liliasday.co.uk like “Kilbarchan Lilias Day” on Facebook or follow @LiliasDay on Twitter.

Sunday 29th March – 110am – Joint Service in East Church The Guild meets in the East Church Hall on Tuesday 10th March at 2.30pm when Mr Douglas Keith will show slides of Lake Garda. On Tuesday 24th March at 2.30pm we will hold our AGM in the West Church Hall.

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I am sure that I can speak for all my Kilbarchan constituents when I extend my condolences to former Councillor and MSP, Bruce McFee, his wife, Iris, and son Erik, on the unexpected death of his other son, Marten. Wee Marten had to struggle every step of the way in his four short years of life but his smile lit up the room, and Bruce, Iris, and Erik, all loved him dearly and we will all miss him.

A new planning application seems to be in the pipeline for several hundred new houses between Kilbarchan and Bridge of Weir on the Mount Pleasance site. Similar proposals have been promoted in the past of a similar nature, and I urge Habbies to listen very carefully to the arguments for, and against, but most importantly of all to make their voices heard using all the official channels during the consultation process.

Transport links are very important for both Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, so it was with some dismay and not a little anger, that I received a response from the Glasgow based Strathclyde Passenger Transport refusing to fund the synchronisation of the bus service at Lochwinnoch Train Station to ensure that commuters are not left stranded in the rain, or even snow. Renfrewshire Council give the SPT £3million per annum so to be told that they cannot afford to synchronise services for our villages is a total disgrace.

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

Lochwinnoch SWRI

The March Meeting of Lochwinnoch SWRI is on Wednesday 18th at 7.30pm in the McKillop Hall. The speaker is Jean Tait and her subject is “Trials and Tribulations of a Tour Guide”. With summer fast approaching, it will be most interesting to see holiday tours from “the other side!”

We look forward to meeting members and guests who are sure of a warm welcome. For further information contact Elma Richmond 01505 843193 or richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

Weaver’s Cottage

I had the great pleasure recently of being asked, as one of a panel of three, to judge the Burns Poetry competition at Lochwinnoch Primary School. This was fantastic and a grand display of bardic talent was on display taking in all ages from P1 to P3. Well done to all pupils involved.

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 constituents who can call me on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8 or e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

Saturday 28 March One of Glasgow’s oldest amateur dramatic societies, Glasgow Light Opera Club are bringing their acclaimed concert ‘A Little Light Music’ to Kilbarchan West Parish Church on Saturday 28 March at 7.30pm.

Featuring a selection of memorable show songs from through the years under the watchful eye of their concert Musical Director, Greenock’s Mr David Mackie (ex D’Oyly Carte).

This is a joint fundraising venture by the club and Kilbarchan West Church and tickets priced £10 can be had at the door or by telephoning 01505 352491/341510 or contact the ‘Kilbarchan Kirks’ facebook page.

Former Kilmacolm resident, Alison Bone who is helping to arrange this event assures readers this will be a great evening of music and comedy.

Now that the seasonal snow has gone work is beginning for the reopening of the National Trust for Scotland’s Weaver’s Cottage. The NTS has decided to open its Kilbarchan season a little earlier than usual, on Monday 23rd March.

The cottage will be open 1-5pm every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays until the end of the season. It is has a Scottish Tourist Board four star award as a visitor attraction, and is a lively and historic destination for visitors. The staff and volunteers are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and will willingly try to answer your questions. There is a small shop in the cottage, to which entry is free, selling a variety of quality souvenirs and presents.

Kilbarchan Old Library Visit the recently renewed Old Library Centre web. www.kipcokil.com to find out the variety of events which take place in the building.

Last month we had a Public Meeting about Mary Barbour and a representative from the RSPB to talk about Garden Birds. Make sure you do not miss an event which you might like to have attended. The Library windows will keep you up to date. You may wish to “drop- in” and have a cup of tea or coffee and browse through magazines and books. Our window display is showing our extensive printing availability and competitive prices.

On Thursday, 19th March we are having “ A Psychic Night with Sally Buxton and friends”. It is important to book you tickets as this is likely to be a popular night.

Our “Charity charter” states that we are open to all for the benefit of residents of Kilbarchan and surrounding areas and we welcome many visitors from abroad. Sadly our Calendar sales were not so good this year and we now have some left over stock which Lochwinnoch Parish Church we will sell for £1 for a copy. We have Saturday 21st March new booklets on listed buildings in Kilbarchan for sale at £2.50 each or 10am - 12noon

Drop-in Cafe

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two for £4.

Tea/ Coffee/scones/biscuits/cakes

Please support the Centre and its volunteers.

£2.50. No charge for children

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Lochwinnoch Arts Festival March 2015 Events will be held from 18th to 29th March at various venues in Lochwinnoch.

Full details and listings are available on p21 of this issue.

There will be two pre-festival events with a Poetry-Writing Workshop on Saturday 7th and a Ballroom Dancing class with Louie Fecou on Sunday 15th. The Dancing class must be booked in advance.

For further information, or to book, call Morag Thow 07868 752814 or visit our website at www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

Arts Festival - Rock Choir Tuesday 24 March - Lochwinnoch Parish Church at 7.30pm Members of the Kilmacolm Rock Choir and Largs Rock Choir will perform together a selection of feel good, up-beat songs that will get you clapping your hands and wanting to join in! Led by Rock Choir Music Leader Jennifer Sim. Rock Choir is the UK’s largest and most popular contemporary choir, with more than 17,000 members. The proceeds from this evening will go to the charity Finding Your Feet.

Arts Festival - Rose Room Sat 28 March - McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm Sharing a love of Swing music and the style of the great Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, Glasgowbased Scottish Jazz Awards finalists Rose Room have become one of Scotland’s leading ensembles influenced by the Gypsy Jazz genre.

Featuring award-winning virtuoso violinist and vocalist Seonaid Aitken (Scottish Opera, Roddy Woomble), guitar maker to the stars Jimmy Moon on double bass, and Swing Guitars’ Tam Gallagher and Tom Watson on rhythm and lead guitars respectively, this exciting acoustic band will charm and entertain you with their *“vigorous and vivacious” performances of ‘Hot Club’ and 1930s Jazz standards with a dash of Western Swing thrown in for good measure.

Arts Festival - Calder Drama Thur 26 & Fri 27 March in McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm The play is called The Lemonade Factory Murders and starts with a most g-r-u-e-s-o-m-e discovery in Struthers Lemonade Factory, which escalates into a tale of deadly intrigue and a veritable shoal of red herrings, all centred around the Calder Drama Society. As the Lemonade Factory Killer continues to wreak havoc, Inspector Una Proven of the Lochwinnoch Police Department finds her resources (and patience!) sorely stretched ... Will she find the murderer before the entire cast of director Ada Lyall-Carrington’s ‘Be Still My Beating Heart’ gets killed off?

Written by local author Franzeska Ewart for Calder Drama Society

Arts Festival Karine Polwart Sat 21 (7.30pm) & Sun 22 (10am) March McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch Karine Polwart “One of the finest singersongwriters in Britain” The Guardian **** “Like a book of short stories set to music, full of stunning nuances and depths” BBC Music Karine draws from folk music’s long tradition while keeping pace with the ceaselessly changing times. Her talent for crafting unique, enduring melodies, her gift for saying just enough without overstating her case, the range and dynamism of her arrangements, all come together in songs of powerful contemporary relevance. She also has the purest and most approachable of singing voices, drawing the listener towards her in the same way one might lean towards a late night tale by the fireside.

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

Host - The Carrick Centre, Houston

The cold spell of weather at the beginning of February caused some problems in parts of Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch.

While the main roads and those leading to the schools were kept largely clear, side roads, footpaths, and areas where numbers of our older residents reside caused particular problems. During the freezing weather I asked for treatment of these areas. Whilst recognising the council does not have unlimited resources, I have nonetheless taken these issues up asking for a review of priorities of the winter service programme to take account of the issues raised with me. I have also asked that the provision of gritting and grit bins be looked at so that we can prepare for future weather events of this type.

With the recent collapse in the price of oil, bus passengers might reasonably have expected bus companies to pass on the benefits by reducing fares. After all in the past when the price of fuel has gone up, we have seen fares rise almost immediately. I contacted the bus companies, but sadly their replies indicate that there is no plan to cut fares at present. This is simply unfair, and I have urged them to reconsider their position.

I had a productive meeting with the police in Johnstone regarding a number of issues, ranging from police visibility in the villages, to their response to episodes of anti social behaviour. Regrettably there has been a recent outbreak of foul language graffiti in some areas and on some bus shelters in Kilbarchan. I have asked community services of the council to remove it, and for the wardens service to monitor the issue. Please let me know of any further incidents, so that action can be taken swiftly to remove the offending material.

Finally congratulations to the management and staff of both the Trust Inn and Glenleven Inn for their silver awards as pub of the year in Renfrewshire’s Best Bar none competition. Both provide a welcoming and friendly atmosphere and the awards are well deserved.

Surgeries: Saturday 7th March at 9am in the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch, and 10am in the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan. Contact: cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire. gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534156007.

City of Glasgow Accordion Band This talented group is returning by special request, to play in Kilbarchan East Church hall on Saturday 18th April at 7.30pm. Tickets will be on sale from Bobbins and can be booked in advance by phoning 702149. The cost will be £8, which will include refreshments.

What’s on March 2015 MONDAY to FRIDAY: Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438 MONDAY: Embroiderers Guild (weekly) 10am. Yoga (weekly) 1pm. Mary Laidlaw 01505 842877. Rockstar Tumbling Class (weekly) 4.15pm. Roz Hart 07734 714131. Carrick Players Drama Group (weekly) 7.30pm. Bill Walker 01505 612262. Young Farmers 2nd, 16th, 7.30pm. Diaporama 9th 7.30pm TUESDAY: Paint Pot Tots (weekly) 10am. Dawn Campbell 07789 262350. Yoga (weekly) 7pm. M/s Lawson 01505 613690. Agricultural Disc Society 10th 7.30pm. SWRI 31st 10am.

WEDNESDAY: French Class (weekly) 3.15pm. F McDevitt 0141 886 6282.

Galaxy Dance (weekly) 4pm. Lauren 07980 055148. Councillors Surgeries 18th 6.30pm. Gryffe Melody Makers 7pm. Camera Club (weekly) 7.30pm. Houston Community Council 18th 7.30pm.

THURSDAY: Quilting Group 12th 19th 26th 1.15pm, 10am & 13.15pm.

Embroiderers Guild 5th 10am. French Class (weekly) 4pm. F McDevitt 0141 886 282. Crafty Friends 5th 19th 7.30pm. Folk Club (weekly) 8pm. Paddybullen@ live.co.uk FRIDAY: Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 4pm. Lauren 07989 055148 SATURDAY: Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 9.30am. Lauren 07989 055148 Unite Dance (weekly) 2pm. Gary Fay 07814 582989 SUNDAY: Baptist Church (weekly) 11am and 6pm Booking enquiries to Ian Simpson, 01505 612203 Sandy Young 01505 633148. hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop.

Renfrewshire Council’s Revenue Budget was approved at the meeting on 12th February. Council Tax has again been frozen and the Council has agreed the terms and conditions regarding the retention and commitment to maintain teacher numbers at the 2014/15 level and the maintenance of the teacher/pupil ratio. Rents for Council house tenants are to be increased by 3.5%. The agreed Capital Investment programme totalling £96.6 million covers the period up to 2017/18 and includes a £3.762 million investment in Renfrewshire’s roads and footpath network for 2015/16.

An amendment to the Revenue Budget, including a one off £250,000 spend providing support to our Green Network activity, a one off uplift of £500,000 to devolved school budgets and £105,000 over 3 years towards providing free swimming lessons for all P6 pupils, was defeated. The full Revenue and Capital budgets will be available on Renfrewshire Council’s web site.

Individual Electoral registration was introduced in Scotland on 19 September 2014 and the revised electoral register will be published on 27 February 2015.

Anyone not yet registered to vote should do so as soon as possible if they want to have a say on who represents them in Westminster. The last date on which you can register to vote in the forthcoming UK Parliamentary General Election is 20 April 2015. If any elector is in doubt as to their status on the electoral register they can contact the help line on 0300 300 0150.

Recently I have received complaints regarding dog fouling in the villages. Can I appeal to those dog owners who allow their dogs to foul tended grassed areas and footpaths that they clean up after their pets and deposit the mess in the bins provided. I had asked for the litter in Whirlie Road and down to the underpass to be cleared and after an inspection of the area this has been agreed.

Surgeries: second Tuesday of each month in Brookfield Village Hall from 6pm to 6.30pm then in Houston Village Hall from 7pm to 7.45pm.

Contact: 01505 610018 or cllr.allan.noon@renfrewshire.gov.uk

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

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17th Anniversary for Houston Church of Nazarene

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Table Tennis Table Tennis is on at the Houston Village Hall on Monday nights from 7.309.30pm. All welcome.

Donation £2. Contact person: Mark Canning on 07968 052538.

On Saturday 31st January, Houston Church of the Nazarene celebrated their 17th anniversary with a dinner and concert by locally well known and accomplished singer-songwriters Yvonne & David Lyon at Houston Village Hall.

Fantastic performance : the two of them becoming ever more polished.

World Day of Prayer Service

Houston & Crosslee SWI

The World Day of a Prayer Service will held in St Fillans Church, Houston, on Friday 6th March at 7.30pm. All are welcome.

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.

We look forward to welcoming Christine Kyle to our meeting on Wednesday 11th March when she will be demonstrating recipes for us to Taste and Try.

Super Fast Broadband Campaign - Many thanks to the huge number of residents who have returned petition slips to me relating to my campaign for improved broadband speeds in the village. I am very pleased to let you know that I have been informed that the Bridge of Weir exchange, which serves Houston, will be upgraded in June of this year. This is one of only 14 exchanges announced in the latest roll out plans as part of the ‘Rest of Scotland’ programme. Whilst this will not in itself result in immediate improvement, it is the first step towards a decent broadband speed in our village. Without an upgraded exchange improvement is not possible and so I am pleased to note this progress. I will now be pushing for the necessary upgrades to cabinets and related equipment to deliver the level of service enjoyed by many other communities.

Planning Applications - Residents who have ‘liked’ my facebook page will be aware of the recent flurry of activity related to housing developments within the village. Whilst there is an attractiveness of having new build homes available in our area, I remain very concerned about the loss of our precious greenbelt land and also the ability of our village infrastructure to cope with the proposed level of new housing. Developments at the former Urquhart and Kilallan Houses have been approved, as has a development at Lonend. I am liaising with officers on the detailed conditions to be put down to ensure as much as possible is done to maintain the character of these areas. An application has now come in for a development of 32 houses at the land ‘East of Fleming Road’.

Following the Scottish Government Reporter approving this land for development in the Local Plan applications were inevitable. I am looking closely at the detail in advance of submitting objections.

Village Appearance - Thank you to residents who have contacted me to highlight issues following the recent poor weather. These have been passed to officers and I have been pleased to receive feedback from residents on improvements made. I have been contacted by residents in Brierie Hills regarding dog fouling. There really is no need for this. As a dog owner myself I know it only takes a few seconds to bag it and bin it! I will be raising this issue at the forthcoming Local Area Committee and will be urging Fixed Penalties to be fully utilised where possible.

Houston Kirk’s Busy Calendar Houston and Killellan continues to put on attractive events as a part of our fundraising for the rapidly progressing Kirk Extension. Our Social Committee ran a very successful music night in February, thanks to Maria Wilson and the Kirk Choir.

Next on the timetable is our Quiz Night on Saturday 14th March, which promises brain-teasing questions for all in the Kirk Halls.

We continue established traditions in our Easter Breakfast following Easter Sunday Early Morning Communion on Sunday 5th April, and hold Star Zone for young children on the 9th and 16th April of the school holidays.

And last but not least, we are in the midst of planning this year’s Kirk Carnival on Saturday 9th May, with the theme of Grand Designs. Let your imagination run free and choose exotic hats and frocks for the Fancy Dress Parade on the day! The proceeds of the 2015 Kirk Carnival will go to the Church Extension Fund.

Houston and Killellan Kirk, Church of Scotland, Scottish Charity no SC 012822

Keep up to date! - I regularly post updates on my Councillor Facebook Page. To keep up to date feel free to visit and ‘like’ my page to receive updates on your Facebook Timeline. www.facebook.com/CouncillorStuartClark Surgeries - I will be holding surgeries on Thursday 5th March at 7pm in Linwood High School, Tuesday 17th March at 7pm in the Tweedie Hall (Linwood) and Wednesday 18 March at 6.30pm in the Carrick Centre.

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howwood ................................... & elderslie I would appreciate your views on how the Council dealt with the icy and snowy conditions in the village.

One service which helps our older residents is Food Train.

The service is a national charity that delivers grocery shopping to those who are over 65 and have age or health related difficulties. It was launched in Renfrewshire in late 2013. I helped with the launch and was impressed by the service which is led by volunteers. If you are interested in hearing more about the service which costs £3 per delivery please call the regional manager Marri Welsh on 0141 887 2557.

New lights and new 30mph signs are being put in at the road at the foot of the new Fordbank estate between Spateston and Howwood. I am sure this will make this area a bit safer.

The council announced its budget on 12th February and I am pleased to say that the Social Work department had an increase in its budget. We have a growing elderly population very often with complex health needs. This along with other factors puts pressure on the Social Work budget so any extra money is welcome. The roads budget was also significantly increased this will be welcomed in areas like Howwood where I know the condition of the roads is very important to the community.

Just a reminder that the annual village clean up is on 11th and 12th April this year. Contact: Cllr.iain.mcmillan@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Brian Laurie Accordion Showband in concert On Friday 27th March, in Howwood Parish Church, when we will be entertained with a wide variety of music in aid of church funds.

Not just Scottish!!!- look at clips of our last concert online: http:// www.accordionshowbandnew.com/ Accordion_Showband/PHOTOS_ C L I P S / P a g e s / B R I A N _ L AU R I E _ SHOWBAND_CONCERT_OCT_2010. html Tickets can be bought at the door on the night.

Elderslie

Community Council Our next meeting is in the Jean Goldie Room, Village hall on Tuesday 3rd March at 7,30pm. Guest Speaker is Carolanne Robertson Community Safety Manager.

Howwood WRI Meet in Howwood Village Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday 17th March.

Cake Decorating - The Easy Way

by Janice Douglas. Competition - Favourite bookmark. Hostesses Christine Drennan & Gail Gilchrist.

Vote of Thanks - Morag Wills.

Howwood Community Council Scottish Night - Saturday 14 March 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! 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. Thank you so much for your support.

Spring Clean - 11th/12th April 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 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.

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Hey folks, Finding Your Feet is organising a family fun'raising day over on Millport in May! Should be a cracker day out for all ages - bags of entertainment, activities and some surprises for the wee ones plus a sponsored cycle round the island! Let me know if you fancy it or ping an email to Nicola@ findingyourfeet.net to register.

FAIRTRADE Fortnight FAIRTRADE Fortnight runs until 8th March, awareness raising of ethical trading to help farmers in the poorest countries develop such products as cocoa, coffee, tea, sugarcane, by trying to maintain fair, stable prices for producers in volatile markets.

Buying Fairtrade products makes a difference to whole communities working together as co-operatives which plough back incentives into village projects for independent growth.

Kilmacolm and Quarriers have been Fairtrade areas for fifteen years - during Fairtrade Fortnight let’s remember to look for the logo on packaging, ask our shops and supermarket to stock Fairtrade products, then to use Fairtrade goods through the year.

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Pet Blog

by PetVets

Trouble in the Litter Tray (Part 1) Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a group of conditions that causes inflammation of the bladder and lower urinary tract in cats.

It affects approximately 3% of the cat population in the United Kingdom annually.

FLUTD is most commonly seen in middle aged, neutered cats but can develop at any age and is often a recurrent problem requiring long term management.

Risk factors include: • Age (middle aged most common) • Neutered • Weight (more common in overweight cats) • Lifestyle (more common in indoor cats)

Sad News regarding a Ginger/White Tom Cat Along the Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm, a small young ginger/white tom cat was unfortunately killed after approximately 10pm on Thursday 5th February. The body was taken to the vet who dealt with the body.

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.

LOST PETS If your pet has gone missing & you would like to place a notice in The Advertizer, please call 01505 613340 or email info@advertizer.co.uk.

We can also put updates on our website & Facebook. This is a free service!

• Diet (more common if on a completely dry food diet) • Low water intake • Stress Common presenting signs include: • Inappropriate urination (passing urine in strange places) • Difficulty passing urine/straining to urinate • Altered frequency of urination (usually increased) • Blood in urine • Increased licking at perineal area (area under the tail) In some cases FLUTD can progress to the point where the cat is physically unable to pass urine due to obstruction of the urethra. This is more common in male cats due to the narrower urethra in males. This is an emergency situation and requires urgent veterinary attention The clinical presentation of FLUTD is often similar regardless of the underlying cause, and may be due to a combination of underlying factors. Possible causes of FLUTD include: • Bacterial infection • Bladder crystals and stones • Tumours • Trauma e.g. road accidents • Anatomical defects • Nerve damage

Rescue Centres Dogs Trust Glasgow: 0141-773-5130 - www.dogstrust.org.uk Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue: 01505-502415 - www.hessilhead.org.uk Johnstone Cat Rescue: 01505 337321 Renfrewshire Cat Protection: 0141-876-4133 www.renfrewshire.cats.org.uk Scottish SPCA: 0141-882-1688 - www.scottishspca.org These centres are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising.

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

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• Viral, fungal or yeast infections (rare) In up to 60% of cases no underlying cause is found and these cases are referred to as feline idiopathic cystitis.

If you are concerned your cat may be affected by FLUTD please contact us at Petvets for further information.

Next month we will look at diagnostic tests used to investigate the cause of FLUTD and options for treatment and management of the condition.

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

Snibbling - approx 3 years old - long hair male domestic cat If you have a big heart and a garden for me to potter about in that is all I am looking for. The staff don’t know my likes and dislikes, but think due to me being timid that I am better suited to older children only and are not sure of other pets.

Sophia - approx 14 years old Domestic short hair cat Sophia’s owner had to bring her to the centre as she was being made homeless.

She is just a wee darling cat that can be homed possibly with dogs, but no other cats and possibly older children.

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

Dash - a 1-2 year old male Lurcher Dash is a lovely boy who arrived in our care through no fault of his own and is now looking for a new home to call his own.

He loves everyone he meets and thrives on attention. This handsome boy has such a gentle nature. Dash enjoys his treats and exercise and walks well on his lead. All he wants is someone to give him the time he needs to settle in and some routine and consistency in his life. Dash would suit a home without young children.

Drew - age unknown - male crossbreed rabbit Drew arrived in our care as a stray and is now desperately looking for a new home to call his own. He is looking for an experienced owner. Drew is in need of further handling and time spent so he becomes used to human contact and company as he can be a bit wary to begin with.

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

Jasper - a 8+ year old male crossbreed Jasper loves to play games especially with a rubber ball!

He is a loving boy who likes to go for long walks and get lots of exercise.

Jasper can live with children who are 14 years old or over and needs his own secure garden.

Someone who has previous experience of owning dogs would help him settle. He would prefer to be the only dog in the home to get all you attention.

march 2015

Dog Fouling PLEASE Clean It Up!!!

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If you own a dog, or are looking after a dog, it is your responsibility to clean up after it. You should ALWAYS pick waste up and put it in the nearest litter bin.

Owners who don’t pick up their dog’s mess and dispose of it properly will face a fine. You can be fined £40 (rising to £60 if not paid within 28 days).

It is also an offence not to give your name and address to an Authorised Officer, and if found guilty, a person can receive a fine up to £500.

You should carry a plastic bag or ‘poop scoop’ with you and clean up every time your dog fouls. If you rent your property or have a shared garden area you should ensure that your dog does not create a nuisance by fouling in communal areas. For further guidance you should refer to your landlord’s guidance on keeping pets.

The message is: GRAB IT - Always keep a supply of bags near your dog’s lead so you don’t forget to take them with you on every walk. Simply insert your hand in the bag and pick up your dog’s waste.

BAG IT - Carefully turn the bag inside out to “bag” your dog’s mess.

BIN IT - Dispose of the bag in a bin. Dog waste can be put in a public litter bin if a specific dog waste bin is not provided.

DON’T PUT UP WITH IT - if you see someone allowing their dog to foul a public place such as a park, footpath or green space and fail to clean it up, call Renfrewshire Wardens with information, anonymously on 0300 300 0380 or email: wardens. es@renfrewshire.gov.uk. This information will allow us to target foot patrols in your area more effectively.

If you live in the Inverclyde Council area and have witnessed offences being committed or are experiencing regular difficulties with people allowing their dogs to foul in your neighbourhood, you can contact the Council in confidence for advice and assistance on 01475 714200.

Lucky - a 5-7 year old female Border Collie cross Lucky needs a very active home who has the time to give her lots of stimulation and walks to keep her clever brain working! She can live with children who are 16 years old or over and needs her own secure garden to play in and practice her training.

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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RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve As the days begin to get longer and snowdrops raise their heads along the trails, the first signs of spring are here at the RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve!

This is a lovely time of year to take a stroll around the reserve and witness the variety wildlife all around! From tufted ducks and goldeneye on the lochs to tree creepers and long-tailed tits in the Aird Meadow forest; there’s always something to look out for! We have also had a few recent exciting bird sightings, including a barn owl spotted at the Barr Loch and brambling across in Garthland wood!

In order to gain some insight into the variety of wildlife that makes use of the reserve, we have recently set up several wildlife cameras – and we have had some great results! We have got some excellent images of an inquisitive fox playing across at the Aird Meadow in the very early hours of the morning, and also some fantastic images of a buzzard sitting amongst the grasses.

However, if you fancy getting a bit closer to some cute little critters, why not pop down to the RSPB Lochwinnoch visitor centre on Saturday 7th March from 12noon – 3pm and meet some of the patients of Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital.

Staff from the hospital will be on hand to talk to you about the different animals they have with them, and to give a firsthand account of the different experiences they have had working at this fantastic local wildlife hospital. This event is free of charge – just pop into the centre!

For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk or Tel. 01505 842 663 RSPB Lochwinnoch, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF March events for the RSPB are featured in our ‘What’s on’ section of this issue.

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Vegetarianism/veganism is on the rise, and more notice is being taken of what’s happening to the animals that go from farm to fork!

Recently Animal Aid made the headlines after undercover work they did in UK slaughterhouses revealed appalling cruelty & torture to animals, and they’ve been campaigning for CCTV in slaughterhouses to stop this abuse and torture. An online petition has surpassed the 100,000 signatures required, meaning this must be considered for debate by the Backbench Business Committee.

Beyoncé last week teamed up with her personal trainer to launch a vegan delivery service. She joins a host of stars choosing this healthy plant based diet.

There is a huge and growing body of evidence to show that a well-balanced 100% plant-based diet is the ideal vehicle for the promotion of human health, not just for our bodies to survive, but to thrive!

There is also evidence to show that it is a misconception that eating animal based products is the healthy diet, eating such has been linked to cancers, diabetes, crohns disease, osteoporosis, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke and allergies.

Last year Sir Paul McCartney launched Meat Free Mondays.

This saw Paul calling on politicians and the British public to commit to a weekly meat-free day to raise awareness on the environmental impacts of eating meat, ahead of the UN climate summit.

Millions of people are totally unaware that the biggest contributing factor to Global Warming is Animal agriculture!

It is responsible for 18% of the total release of greenhouse gases world-wide (this is more than all the cars, trucks, planes, and ships in the world combined).

If you would like to part of a Scottish Animal Aid group to look at these issues, contact Lynn on 07921 829788 or email jollysploffs@hotmail.com.

The Scotland’s Gardens Guidebook is published annually. It contains listings of all the gardens, organised by region and by date, featured articles, and details of special events and trails. It also gives the costs of admission and directions of how to get to the gardens.

The Guidebook is available NOW for £6.50 at leading book shops, and other appropriate retail and tourist outlets or you can buy directly from the website www.scotlandsgardens.org/buy-the-book. Post and packaging is £2 for the UK

Scotland’s first Open Garden for 2015 was at Ardgowan Estate, Inverkip It was a wonderful day- the snow had gone and the weather was actually dry and mild!- and was the most successful for many years. We raised £1441.47 and we would all like to thank everyone who visited the Estate. Details of further openings in Ayrshire and Inverclyde/Renfrewshire are on the website- www. scotlandsgardens.org

Open Garden - ‘Glencarn’,

Glencarn Rd, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL

21st March - 21st September -from Dawn - Dusk Glenarn survives as a complete example of a ten acre garden which spans from 1850 to the present day. There are winding paths through glens under a canopy of oak and lime, sunlit open spaces, a vegetable garden with beehives, and a rock garden with views over the Gareloch. It is famous for its collection of rare and tender rhododendrons, but horticulturally there is much more besides.

Directions - OnA814, two miles north of Helensburgh, up pier road. Cars to be left at gate unless passengers are infirm.

Admission Beneficiaries Donation to Beneficiaries

£4.

SG

Call 01436 820493 for further information.

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Plan Ahead!

Pedal the Park Online Entry Open!

Online entry is now open for Pedal the Park 2015! Happening on Sun 26th Apr, this cycling festival, organized

by Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park & Ride 63 will feature be a 68km sportive, family ride, hand biking time trials and event village! Sign up now via British Cycling Events (http:// www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/ details/126230/Pedal-the-Park). Not into cycling? Be a volunteer marshal instead! More on our website.

CMRP Branching Out Participant wins National Photographic Competition!

Congratulations go to Isobel McDonald, of Paisley Renfrewshire, who has won first place in the National Branching Out Photographic Competition.

Isobel took the winning image whilst completing the innovative programme of woodland activity for mental health at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park at the end of last year. She competed with groups from all over Scotland and was at the presentation and opening of the exhibition at John Muir’s birthplace in Dunbar.

Last Stargazing of the Season at Muirshiel The last chance to attend our successful run of stargazing evenings is on Friday 13th March, 7pm - 9pm. Please book on 01505 842 882 Ex 20 as event can be relocated from Muirshiel Centre to Castle Semple Centre at short notice due to weather conditions affecting the road.

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!

Race 2 the games Legacy Dates are set for the Scottish MultiClass 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.

Duke of Edinburgh Programmes 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!

A Community Cycle Group ‘Ride 63’ is up and running, next ride out on Mar 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.

Crit on the Green – Clyde Muirshiel aids Paracycling Event Clyde Muirshiel will be at Glasgow Green on Saturday 28th March as one of the joint organisers with the Glasgow Riderz Cycling Club. We will be chatting about Pedal the Park and running the paracycling exhibition race with new specially adapted bicycles and trikes! Come and say hello if you’re there!

Regular Events Mondays (put 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 12.30pm3.30pm.

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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Clyde Muirshiel Branching Out Photography Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch Isobel McDonald, of Paisley Renfrewshire, has won first place in the National Branching Out Photographic Competition. Isobel took the winning image whilst completing the innovative programme of woodland activity for mental health at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park at the end of last year. She competed with groups from all over Scotland and was at the presentation and opening of the exhibition at John Muir’s birthplace in Dunbar.

Isobel has won a day out with a professional photographer at a location of her choice for her whole group from Renfrewshire’s Recovery Across Mental Health (RAMH) charity! She was clearly delighted at winning and some of her fellow participants jumped out of their seats in delight for her!

The whole group will celebrate in Isobel’s success as she has won a day out with a professional photographer for all of the members.

The winning photo entitled ‘Butterflies Flower’

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Kilmacolm Horticultural Society The Garden in March The March lecture of Kilmacolm Horticultural Society is on Wednesday 18th March at 7.30pm in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm. We are delighted that Mr Ian McCrorie MBE has agreed to be our Speaker for the evening, his lecture is entitled ‘Pleasure and Steamer Services on the Clyde and the West of Scotland’. Ian is a well known Greenock personality, many people know him not only as a senior school teacher, but also as an organist, choirmaster, raconteur, historian, author and passionate expert on the wonderful ‘Waverley’. We promise you a most enjoyable evening.

Forsythia x intermedia ‘Spectabilis’ The spring garden would be a much duller place without the bright yellow flowers of forsythia, covered in large deep yellow blooms in early to mid-spring. Plant in sun or partial shade, ideally in moist but welldrained soil, although forsythia plants are not very fussy.

For the best blooms and to avoid your plant becoming too large, cut back the branches that have flowered to a pair of strong buds just after they have finished blooming.

Carpet the ground underneath with muscari [grape hyacinth] a host of blue flowers closely packed on a single, spike-like stem.

Early Flowering Irises Also the Society’s Spring Bulb Competition will be judged for presentation of the Jimmy Whittet Trophy. Bring along your exhibits of daffodils, tulips, spring bulbs. Everyone welcome, refreshments served following the lecture.

Raffle prizes. This completes the 135th Anniversary celebrations.

Thank you to all the willing helpers, and members, for making this a very special year. Please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393 for details on joining the K.H.Soc.

Colourful Kilmacolm As all gardeners will know, it is not easy to maintain a colourful display over the winter months. Nevertheless, our choice of evergreen plants for the piazza have provided some interest with their various leaf shapes and hues, and the bonus of red berries. At Birkmyre Park our pansies should s o o n respond to the lengthening days and cheer us up. Bulbs are already pushing through and in a few weeks we will be enjoying their vibrant colours.

The sharp-eyed among you may also have spotted some bulbs appearing at the lay-bys at either end of the village. At the time of writing it has to be admitted you won’t be stopped in your tracks at the sight of them, but with luck they should naturalise and increase over the years.

Our committee met recently and plans are afoot for additional displays in the village. As always, anyone is welcome to join Colourful Kilmacolm, with the option of becoming one of our volunteer gardeners. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website www. colourfulkilmacolm.org. uk or you can phone Peter (01505 872448) or Diane (01505 872611).

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Nothing beats the first winter-flowering irises for intensity of colour. The lovely irises pictured here [Iris Reticulata ‘Harmony’] have fairly large royal blue flowers with a bright yellow band. They prefer full sun in well-drained soil, flowering February/March. Planting distance 3-4in.

Height 4-6in.

Brighter Bridge Of Weir We Never Sleep Unlike some of the plants and wildlife that Brighter Bridge of Weir nurture through spring, summer and autumn, the group’s volunteers don’t hibernate. Some serious forward planning has been under way for this year’s growing season, and to help with that the group have just been awarded a £250 grant from Keep Scotland Beautiful.

200 community groups throughout Scotland were successful in applying for the grants, which have been funded by Tesco from the Scottish Government’s 5p plastic bag tax. Brighter Bridge of Weir’s Secretary, Dougie McNicol, told the Advertizer, “The grant has been awarded as a contribution towards a specific project, and it’s a condition of the award that the local community and businesses should be involved as much as possible.”

Alice Johnstone, the group’s Chair said: “Our ‘specific project’ is to enhance the roadside verge at one of the approaches to the village boundary. We have some thoughts on this already, but we need to get input from other members of the community, from schools, youth groups and others. So we’ll be canvassing for ideas, support and hands-on help to complete this project.”

“It won’t be completed overnight,” added Dougie.

“It’s longer-term and it will cost quite a bit, but it’s a great boost to know that an organisation such as Keep Scotland Beautiful sees sufficient merit in it to award us the grant to kick-start it.”

So why not get your thinking caps on and come up with some ideas to help create a welcoming entrance to Bridge of Weir, or prepare to get your hands dirty to help the group make it happen. Show your support by ‘liking’ and adding a comment on facebook.com/brighterbridgeofweir, or see www.brighterbridgeofweir.org for more information.

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It’s impossible not to feel the anticipation of spring as the days get longer and at last the clocks spring forwards (1am on the 29th March) This month look out for:• Birds returning from their winter homes • Dawn Chorus • Woodland flowers in blossom • Blackthorn Blossom (but not Hawthorn Blossom) • Frogspawn • Scarlet Elf Cup • The Sale of Snowdrop bulbs in the green There are also a pair of woodpeckers drumming in the woods and Herons are frequently seen over the lake so hopefully they will breed this year.

The ground is green with butterbur, the snowdrops have been out since February and many early woodland plant species will come into flower, Lesser Celandine opens in the sun, but closes it’s petals when it is cloudy, wood anemones and violets appear at this time. In wetter areas wild garlic and dogs mercury totally cover the ground in a sea of pungent foliage.

Blackthorn will flower towards the end of the month, even before the leaves come out, every year there is keen interest from naturalists as to the exact date of the first blackthorn, and later hawthorn flowering in various parts of the UK as they are used to measure the effects of climate change.

Events at Finlaystone in March All events in March free for members, normal entry fee applies to non-members.

1st Spring Walk– Sunday 1st March 1pm-3pm - Join us for a gentle Ranger guided stroll through the woods with moderate slopes. Bring boots and coats.

Den Build and survival skills – Sunday 8th March 1pm-3pm - Join us for the junior bear grills special and build a den then learn some basic survival skills with the Rangers.

Junior Cross Country– Sunday 15th March 1pm to 3pm - Join us tackling the Finlaystone Junior Cross Country for 5-10 year olds see who sets the best time in this fun race.

Mother’s Day – Sunday 15th March - Why not treat mum to a stroll through the woods and gardens followed by a scone and a cup of tea? Cream Teas are available in the tea room overlooking the walled garden from 12pm – 4pm.

Garden Report During the month of March we should begin to see improved light levels, and after a dull, wet, and snowy February, this will be most welcome and should trigger off new growth in many of our plants.

As the famous Finlaystone snowdrop displays come to an end, we will be undertaking the tasks of lifting, dividing, and replanting them in other locations; this is done to prevent the clumps becoming too congested and also increases the amount of snowdrops that we have on display. This job is very rewarding, but time consuming, and if you would like to come along as a snowdrop volunteer, or volunteer to help in all parts of the garden, please give us a call, you will be made most welcome. As snowdrops transplant better when in ‘greenleaf’, now is the perfect time to do it; if you would like some for your own garden, please phone your order into reception, these will give you pleasure year after year, and will increase in numbers as they mature.

Plants of interest in the garden this month are Helleborous (Lenten rose) Viburnum bodnantense, with its bright pink blossom, and the gorgeous scent of the tiny flowered Lonicera purpusii (the winter honeysuckle), these can all be seen in the winter border. In our knot garden, the Camelia japonica ‘hedge’, is a riot of colour with masses of rose-like blooms, and is well worth a visit.

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Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society Our February speaker was Douglas Boatman, MD of Scotplants, the well-known nursery at Burnhouse near Beith.

Douglas’s horticultural career started in the 1970s and, in 1983, he established Scotplants.

The nursery focuses on the propagation of all types of plants and selling-on healthy, hardy and attractive plants which will thrive in the changeable Scottish climate. Amongst his clients has been the Hit Squad from the Beechgrove Garden.

Douglas began his presentation by reflecting on the changing fashion from planting beds of summer bedding to the prevalence of containers and hanging baskets which we see today. He illustrated his talk with colourful images of containers and baskets which Scotplants had planted for various clients. He drew our attention to the importance of slow release fertilizer in the compost used for hanging baskets or tubs.

The annuals and perennials grown as annuals need to be supplied with enough food to see them through the growing season. This is most easily supplied by slow release fertilizer; otherwise regular liquid feeding will be necessary. Douglas also mentioned how effective John Innes based composts could be for certain subjects, Nicotianas or Tobacco Plants for example. J.I. Composts contain a soil or clay fraction which acts as a buffer during mineral uptake.

Our speaker weighed up the pros and cons of different kinds of hanging baskets mentioning that the newer plastic ones are easier to fill with plants but have a tendency to dry out more quickly. He warned against using containers which are too small and consequently having too little compost.

He also told us about “fusion seeds” which are small, ready to go plugs containing a mixture of bedding plants, for example Bacopa and Lobelia or Petunia.

Douglas Boatman suggested plant selections for different seasons beginning with ornamental cabbages which overwinter in containers; these should be sown in July. He recommended violas over pansies, particularly the scented, trailing, yellow ones, since they are more reliable in wet and windy weather.

The usual suspects of Verbenas, Petunias, Lobelia, Geraniums and Begonias were mentioned with particular note reserved for Begonia ‘Flamboyance’ due to its very floriferous nature once it does flower. Other recommendations included: Dahlia ‘Mystic Illumination’, Argyranthemum (Crazy Daisy), Brachycome (Blue Daisy), Bacopa ‘Snowflake’, the Illumination series of Begonia (pinks and yellows) and the Rudbeckias which are grown as annuals.

The evening was very entertaining and filled with useful information on how to get the best from Annuals in our mixed West of Scotland climate.

We will meet again next month on Thursday, 12th March when the speaker will, Jo Davis, will be talking about Moths & Butterflies. As usual the meeting will be held in the Royal British Legion, Scotland at 8pm.

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Langbank Camera Club At the 9th February meeting club members were treated to a comprehensive presentation of the Picasa photo editing software. The presentation demonstrated what can be achieved with free software without resorting to costly alternatives, especially for those attempting photo editing for the first time. All who attended, novice and the more experienced photographers, enjoyed the presentation and came away with additional insight into this versatile, easy to use software.

Post production is always a topic of discussion in the club and will be covered at next month’s meeting. High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography will be discussed and demonstrated in April, more information on that will be in the next issue of the Gryffe Advertizer.

The February print competition topic was ‘A touch of Yellow’ which made for some interesting images from a few spots of yellow in an image to much, much more. All the images submitted for competition were excellent and demonstrated the diversity of the photographic techniques employed to reach that final image in print. This month’s honour goes to Gary Ramanathan as both of his entries, ‘Broom in Bloom’ and ‘Kelburn Castle’, the castle painted by Brazilian and Scottish graffiti artists, were awarded joint first place. Third place went to James Goodall for his printed image of a ‘Sunflower’.

The Projected Digital Image (PDI) evenings are still ongoing and provide a different platform for club members. We discuss all the digital images submitted for that evening - a forum which is still evolving and provides constructive feedback to club members. Last month we had an open topic with an artistic twist which showcased the different skill sets of members but with everyone learning something new.

The main March meeting will be held as usual on the second Monday of the month, 9th March, with the PDI meeting on Monday 23rd March. The print competition topic for 9th March is ‘Fruit/Vegetable Market’.

All club meetings are held in Langbank Church Halls, Langbank. Visitors are always welcome to our friendly club nights.

Membership of the club is only £10 for the first year. 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.

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Gryffe Camera Club Another exciting month for our club, as we won both of the external competitions we entered! Gryffe beat Hub Singer of Clydebank in our annual friendly prints competition, and we also beat Clydebank in the GDPU Digital competition! Both competitions were hosted by our competitors and we would like to give a big thank you for making us so welcome and being fantastic hosts.

Since the last update, we have been lucky enough to welcome three visiting speakers to our club nights, and thoroughly enjoyed seeing their images and hearing the stories about the places they have visited.

Jim Black presented a huge variety of different topics, and his expertise with a camera in such a range of situations is incredible!

Fiona McEwan presented “Perceptions of Svalbard”; wonderful photographs from such a stunning place, and a great knowledge of the different wildlife and areas. Richard Bennett took us “On the Wild Side” with his collection of exciting images, and gave us a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

We also continued our internal league competition with round 4, taking us over the halfway mark! Round 5, the penultimate round, will be held on 4th March where Bill Craig will deliver his verdict on our prints and digital images.

On 11th March our own Kenny Baker and John Clark will be presenting “New Zealand”. On 18th we will be viewing the SPF Print and PDI Portfolios before setting off to Kilmacolm Camera Club on 24th to compete against Beith and Kilmacolm in a 3 way digital image battle. There will be no meeting at the Carrick Centre on 25th, but on 26th we will be heading to Renfrew to compete in a 3 way AV Competition.

There is still plenty left in the syllabus to entertain our current and any interested potential new members, so if you are interested in learning more about photography and have a camera of any type, from a camera phone or a compact, please do come along to the Carrick Centre in Houston at 7.30pm on

Wednesday nights. We can guarantee a warm welcome!

Winning images are Cat

by Hugh Kerr (top right) Daisy in Detail by Tony McNamara (bottom left), Falls of Dochart by Helen Teese (above centre) and Flight by George Kennedy (above right).

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Kilmacolm Camera Club In January, we held another of our internal league photo competitions, the topic, this time, being “Two of a Kind.” It was interesting to see members’ different interpretations of the topic, especially so for our judge, Bob Wark, of Beith Camera Club. In the Print competition, Bill Ham came first and second with “Stunt Planes” (shown top right) and “Green Shades”.

Tina Marr was third with “Evening Photographers”. In the Digital competition, David Walker was first, with “Battle at the Bend”, Richard Drew came second, with “It’s all there in Black and White” (shown centre). David also picked up third place, with “Faces of Venice” (shown below right).

We also had a very useful practical night experimenting with our studio lighting. It ended up as a session on table-top photography, and everyone came away with some new skills on Still Life. Who’s this guy Van Gogh, anyway?

Last month, we were entertained and enlightened with a travelogue from “The Old Master”, Bill Ham. He showed us images from a Danube cruise which took us from Budapest to Linz, in Austria. We saw amazing shots of church interiors, colourful buildings in Budapest and intriguing little alleyways. I think a few members were tempted to enquire on the internet afterwards!

Planning your hols just now? Wanting to get the best out of your camera?

Why not pick up some tips at the Camera Club?

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

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Duchal Nursery School There have been lots of noodles and chopsticks in Duchal recently, both proving a great hit with the children while celebrating Chinese New Year. Continuing our “People that Help Us” topic we have had lots of fun with our own Duchal Shop, Police Station and Doctor’s Surgery, we have been firefighters, paramedics and of course Mummies and Daddies, all of whom help us so much. We also had a fantastic trip to a local Dental Surgery. It’s been a very busy start to the year.

New Entries to Duchal: We are now offering 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.

With Spring finally on it’s way we are looking forward to spending more time in the Duchal garden and in our lovely surroundings of Birkmyre Park.

Abbey Nursery Staff could be accused of being “as mad as march hares” this month with the huge list of activities planned at Abbey including our Open Day on Saturday 21st from 2pm to which all new parents will be warmly welcomed. Red Nose day is the focus for Friday 13th and the children (and staff!) are encouraged to have a “Bad hair Day”; wear red noses and/or Red Nose day t-shirts. There will be games and activities to celebrate this charity event and a Parade to complete the day.

World Book day will also be a wonderful time for us to share children’s favourite stories at nursery and parents are encouraged to make use of our own lending library. The Grasshoppers will also be celebrating Mardi Gras on 17th March with colourful costumes and different foods as they explore cultural experiences from around the world.

This month our Ante Preschool children continue to learn about “Our body”; how we are all individuals and why our bodies need looking after through healthy eating and regular exercise. They have also joined the Pre School children with visits to the nursery from the Ambulance and Fire Service courtesy of many of the parents who have important roles in these services.

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.

Kilbarchan East Tots Club

East Church Hall. 9.15am-11.30am

every Tuesday Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

Baby Social

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Vill. 11am 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

We would also like to thank all the children (and parents) who helped make our Puzzle Month so successful. It was great to see the children share their puzzles and take the lead in helping friends complete these, often challenging, jigsaws

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Thursday Houston Toddlers

In the Busy Bunnies playroom the children will be exploring the weather using rhymes; “Doctor Foster” and “The North Wind doth blow”, and

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

stories like “Going on a Bear Hunt” to encourage language development, physical play, imagination and creativity. Supporting our Eco School activities children will be using sweet wrappers and incorporating these into works of art and new borders for our ECO wall as well as creating bird feeders from recycled yoghurt pots.

The Little Ladybirds will be having lots of sensory experiences to stimulate and engage them alongside gentle introduction to yoga and movement with ribbons and music. Our Rising Two’s will be taking part in more challenging activities and using the nearby Scout Hall for more independent physical play.

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REGULAR

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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Bridge of Weir Primary School Three cheers to Robert Burns for having his birthday during what otherwise might be the darkest month of the year! At Bridge of Weir Primary, January was charged with colour and punctuated by pleasingly guttural utterings.

Throughout the school, pupils busily prepared renditions of choric singing and Scottish country dancing; kilts were dusted down and sewing boxes looted for tartan ribbon. The school’s now traditional concert for grandparents and older local residents presents a marvellous opportunity to celebrate the Scottish arts and was very warmly received. The Parent Council’s ceilidh was timed perfectly in the slipstream of all this cultural fervour, and many parents commented on the enthusiasm and sheer stamina of many of our very youngest pupils, whose charming interpretation of The Flying Scotsman melted a few hearts.

Our P7 pupils have started celebrating their “lasts”, most recently with their Burns Supper.

Abbey, Neve, Chloe, Rachel, Sarah and Lindsay were all very taken with assuming the mantle to prepare and plan for this annual P7 event. “It was so new to us,” remarked Rachel. Chloe explained that, as well as the meal and the traditional speeches, pupils “did turns” to entertain each other and the senior members of staff they had invited as guests of honour. The “Lassies” and the “Laddies” were celebrated in Scots verse, and hearts warmed with an impromptu rendition of “Caledonia”.

In February, we encourage our students to reflect on their role as citizens of our world through Fair Trade fortnight. P7 pupils host a Fair Trade tuckshop and all students wore something banana yellow on Fair Trade Friday. Would-be Mary Berrys will have their chance to (rise and) shine when P7 bakers compete in a Fair Trade Bake Off in the school on 2 March. Teachers have not been slow to offer their services as judges!

Langbank Playgroup There’s always something physical to do at Playgroup and here we are relaxing after a hard gymnastics session with Christine who had us doing forward rolls, jumping on the stepping stones and going through her enormously long tunnel.

We needed a little cooldown after that! However, as we all know young children have a great amount of energy so if it’s not gymnastics, Playgroup offers the beams, footballs, hoops, hopscotch and the climbing frame as an opportunity to burn off some energy and develop gross motor skills without knowing it. Why not come along and see what we get up to?

Children from Langbank and the surrounding areas very welcome and please get in touch if you are interested in a pre-school place for the rest of this term as the majority of our children will be attending Langbank Primary and attending Playgroup beforehand is a great way for the whole family to make friends. Contact our Chair, Jacqueline on 01475 540728, for more inforamtion.

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Strawberry Field Nursery Rainbow Building The children have been continuing their winter topic, learning about changes in the weather and animals that live in cold climates.

Our heuristic play room is now up and running with great results.

We have been reading the story ‘’stick Man’’ and the children are participating in activities to make our ‘’Stick Man’’ wall display.

Bright Stars The 3-5’s are wild about dinosaurs, enjoying opportunities such as dinosaur role play, excavating bones and outdoor art. They have all chosen what they want to research and used books and computers to answer their questions.

The pre-schoolers are having fun participating in our Forest Kindergarten sessions which encourage problem solving and recognising/managing risks.

These woodland adventures take place weekly (weather permitting) and include an outdoor ‘picnic’ snack time.

St Columba Church - Holiday Club St Columba Church, Kilmacolm is running a holiday club from Monday 6th to Friday 10th April. It is on in the church hall from 10am till 12noon.

Blast Off is a space themed holiday club where we will hear stories about some of the friends of Jesus.

Blast Off is for everyone who is in P1 to P7 and will include games, songs, juice and fruit, crafts, challenges, stories, drama, a time machine and lots of other fun things.

Duchal Nursery School Fun Open Morning Duchal Nursery School are opening their doors on Saturday 7th March 10am - 12 noon for a fun filled morning of games and activities. Come along and experience a little bit of Duchal at our nursery in Birkmye Park, Kilmacolm. All welcome. Duchal Nursery provides an excellent nursery education in a warm, caring, secure and stimulating environment. Come and see our facilities at this fun open morning.Limited places available for August 2015. Registration taken from birth onwards for future years. Www. duchal.com

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Woodlands Day Nursery The babies had great fun last month sharing the love by making beautiful Valentine pictures and cards and enjoying tasting our fresh baked Pancake for Shrove Tuesday. Our babies are loving spending more time outside as we continue to open our playroom doors to encourage free flow play where the babies can venture outside to experience our beautiful woodland surroundings.

The children in our Tweenie Room have been celebrating Valentine’s Day by making lovely cards and presents for their loved ones and Chinese New Year, Kung Hei Fat Choi 2015 – the year of the Goat.

They enjoyed tasting some Chinese food, re-created a ‘Dragon Dance’ along to Chinese music and changed their house corner into a restaurant named ‘Chow Mein City’. The children have been enjoying role play by dressing up and pretending to be waiters, waitresses and customers in their lovely restaurant. The children were ‘flipping’ crazy as we celebrated Shrove Tuesday on 17th February before they start the build up to Spring time and Easter.

Rising 5’s are learning all about living things this month. We have turned our imaginative area into a Vets Surgery where we have been looking after all of the sick and injured animals.

We have been learning all about the names of baby animals, where animals live and what they like to eat. The children have been taking part in trips to the woods to see if they could find any animals that live there. The boys and girls also enjoyed creating beautiful Valentines cards to send to the people they love on Valentines Day. Our boys and girls have been very interested in drawing recently and have taken great pride in drawing their favourite characters. We are enjoying seeing princesses, superheroes and even ninja turtles.

The Out of School Care children have been busy celebrating Pancake Tuesday with delicious homemade pancakes and celebrating the Chinese New Year in which they had fun making dragons and dragon masks as well as sampling some Chinese food. The have been participating in the eco schools programme by making bird feeders and planting their own potatoes. Their next topic will be Healthy Lifestyles which will be focusing on eating healthily and exercising.

Kilbarchan Primary School Burns Celebration In January, we once again held our very successful Scottish Poetry competition which culminated in a fantastic afternoon of poetry, music and dancing. Every pupil in the school learned a Scottish poem, with three finalists from each stage performing on the day in front of our humorous judges - Linda McKrankie (Mrs Harvey),Heather the Weather (Mrs Sommerville) and Bruno Tagliatelli (Steven Smith our minister!).

Our winners from each stage were... P1 - Cameron Stewart, P2 - Matthew Addison, P3 - Isla Christie, P4 - Katie MacDonald, P5 - Alex Tazzar, P6 - Amy McGreish and P7 - Darrell Carty. We were also entertained by our group of terrific pipers, superb Highland dancers and a fantastic fiddler! Well done to everyone involved!

“Wellbeing Day” In February, the whole school will once again spend a day investigating new ways to relax and feel good. As usual the pupils will be responsible for planning their own day full of pleasant activities such as reading, listening to music and massage. We will also wear comfy clothes and relax on beanbags and cushions

“Be a Pupil Night” On the 3rd February, we held our very successful “Be a Pupil Night” when parents and pupils enjoyed a free pizza dinner, followed by a surprise movie for P1-P7 children with activities for parents/carers based on different areas of the curriculum. We all had lots of fun!

St Columba Church Playgroup and Toddlers: Well done to all the parents who battled through the snow to bring their children to Playgroup this winter. But when you are a two year old, the snow is great fun and it was even better when Liz Murray of Octokids brought her snow machine in one day and we had a snowball fight and fun with snowmen indoors! Liz had us dancing and singing plus we also learnt useful l e s s o n s about what to wear for the chilly days.

This month we will be celebrating Mother’s Day and talking about Spring and Easter so hoping for some warmer days. We have a waiting list for places in August so please contact Melanie our Playgroup Secretary for more information by emailing stcolumbachurchplaygroup@gmail.com

Spring Coffee Morning - Saturday 21st March We are holding a Spring Coffee Morning in the main church hall from 10am to 12pm. Come along for refreshments and home baking and fun and games for the children.

Port Glasgow High School The pupils of Port Glasgow High School love to be on the stage, and anyone who has come to a show or concert will tell you how good they are. However it is always good for pupils and staff to have the talent formally recognised, and this years Greenock Festival did just that. Pupils from across the years groups entered into 39 different musical and speech performances, and they put their heart and soul into their performances. Their hard work paid off as a collection of 25 awards were collected by our pupils.

Our awards winners are:- Amber Alexander (2nd for self accompanied voice); Tom Allison (1st for tuned percussion); Reiss Armstrong (1st for guitar); Julia Bilingual & Murrin Keith ( 1st in Dramatic Duologue U14); Lucy Bilingual (1st in Dramatic Monologue U18 and 1st & trophy winner in Unprepared Sight Reading U18); Connor Bristow (2nd for flute); Adam Docherty (2nd for voice); Amy Gilmour (2nd for trombone); Adam Greer (1st for Drum Kit and 1st for base guitar); Chloe Lynch & Lucy Pollock (1st for clarinet & flute duet); The Kickbacks (1st rock band); Sophie Marshall (1st for clarinet); Morgan McGroarty (2nd for drum kit) Louise McKay (1st for flute); Niamh Mckenna (2nd for voice); Emily McLaughlan (1st in Dramatic Monologue U14, and 1st in Unprepared Sight Reading U14); PGHS Jazz group (2nd); PGHS Percussion Ensemble (1st ); Courtney Thomas (2nd for tunned percussion).

The judges certainly recognised the talent within the school, and gave a special mention regarding the PGHS Junior Orchestra. Last year Reiss Armstrong was one of our pupils invited to the closing evening, and achieved a special award for the highest mark in the festival – this year the invite and award went to his friend, Adam Greer. Adam (S6) got two awards on Saturday evening; best percussionist and the highest mark for any performance.

“Fairtrade Fortnight”

The Port Glasgow High School Community is very proud of all our performers and award winners. Our thanks go out to our drama and music teachers, musical instructors and parents for supporting pupils their preparation. Well Done to all!

For Fairtrade Fortnight, amongst all our other activities, we held a Fairtrade bake-off with lots of delicious food made by the pupils with a helping hand from one of our parent helpers. There was also a stall selling lots of interesting Fairtrade goods!!

With all this talent we look forward to our annual musical concerts in April and School Show (Singing in the Rain) in June; tickets are available from the School Office.

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St Columba’s School Extravaganza – Class of 2015 In February the School’s SVI pupils hosted the annual Yearbook Extravaganza to raise funds towards the cost of the Yearbook. The show is a popular fixture in the school calendar and features a variety of acts, including comedy sketches and a display of musical talent, all performed and produced by SVI students.

Early Years Learning St Columba’s is delighted to introduce 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 well-prepared for the transition to Junior 1. The core programme will take place in the morning with the option to stay for the afternoon session, and our flexible wraparound provision means that care is available from 7.45am – 6pm. If you would like to find out more please call us on 01505 872768.

We’d love to show you what makes St Columba’s so special!

Houston Primary School

Spring Term Successes The pupils have had a very successful start to the Spring Term. Jessica Curry and Hannah McLoughlin have won the regional round of the International Competition for Young Debaters in St Andrews and will now debate at the finals at the Cambridge Union Society in May, and both Laura Stark and Praise Olatoke won gold at the Scottish Schools Indoor Athletics Championship at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow (1500m and long jump event respectively).

Congratulations also to all our pupils who participated as soloists and in ensembles during the last two weeks at the Inverclyde Music Festival – more information on participants and trophies won can be found in the News section of our website at www.st-columbas.org.

Nomad Music Easter Holiday Club Running throughout the Easter holidays in Kilbarchan East Church Hall. Learn guitar, piano or have a go on the drums, have a jam in a band, play awesome indoor and outdoor games, meet new friends and have a fantastic time. Beginners and non-beginners welcome. Sessions for those in P1 to P6 and for those in P7 to S4.

For full details visit www.nomadmusicschool.co.uk.

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Pirate Fun! The nursery pupils had a fabulous treat when Pirate Pete came to visit Houston Primary School Nursery. He taught them lots of amazing tricks with balloons and told lots of funny ‘Pirate’ jokes.

Once Pirate Pete had gone the children were enthused to be pirates themselves and used their imaginations to go on real pirate adventures on the brand new outdoor pirate ship in our forest garden.

Eco ‘Countryfile’ Calendar Houston Primary School and Nursery have produced their very own Eco ‘Countryfile’ Calendar with the support of Hayley from Muirshiel Country Park. Each year group took photographs of a certain aspect of the outdoor environment and Hayley chose the winning entries for each year group. Miss Campbell then set to work collating the photographs and producing a beautiful calendar ready for professional printing. The calendars sold for £5 each and all profits have gone to school garden funds.

Techno Team P7 pupils expressed an interest in being technology leaders for the nursery.

They researched suitable literacy and numeracy apps on their own iPads for children age 3-5 years and even had an interview to gain this highly sought after position! The nursery have now raised enough funds to purchase 3 iPads and they are going to be delivered very soon! The children are very excited. The ‘Techno Team’ will support the nursery pupils by showing them how to use apps to enhance their learning.

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University West of Scotland Brings Their Mobile Campus to Gryffe S4 pupils enjoyed a unique learning experience when the UK’s first fully digital mobile campus came to Gryffe High. UWS commissioned the custom built vehicle equipped with cutting-edge technology - the internal specification of the bus includes satellite broadband, iPod wireless connectivity, BYODL connectivity and state-of-the-art 3D Oculus Rift and Google Glasses connectivity.

Aidan Rantoul says – ‘Twelve people from our Computing class were invited to go down to the UWS bus which was full of fancy technology for us to try out. We met a man called Duncan who told us our task, to create a temperature sensor which sends the data to an internal network and then a website which collects that data and displays it. We were split into 3 groups, then given a workbook to follow.

I was a little surprised, no help just a workbook and our minds. However, after an hour and a bit of problem solving and working as a team we finished. The experience was great - we learned how to work new computing equipment like the Raspberry Pi. We also learned what it would be like to work for a computing company by working on different tasks then coming together as a team. It was a truly great experience and taught me valuable team working and problem solving skills.’

Zumbathon Raises £537 For Teenage Cancer Trust Charity On the 5th of February, Gryffe High School held a Zumbathon in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust – a Sixth years focussed charity. Posters and notices were put up both around the school and in the community to help spread the word. Wristbands and pin badges were sold at the entrance reminding everyone why they were there. Teachers, pupils, parents and even grandparents filtered through the door that evening with their water bottles at the ready, most not knowing what to expect. Although people stood arms width apart ready to begin they were still sceptical about whether Zumba was for them. Once the event had begun and the music boomed out of the speakers everyone exuded enthusiasm - including the football team!

Despite the fact it may look stupid everybody feels as if they are on Strictly Come Dancing. Nobody worries about what they look like, everybody else looks just as silly and also have equally as much fun!

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Gryffe High School Enterprise Group OppARTunity is a Young Enterprise Scotland Team from Gryffe High School for 2014-15. Our Mission Statement is “Promoting the work of young artists to develop awareness and opportunities whilst enhancing creativity in our community”. We as a team are selling art work and photography from school pupils in Renfrewshire. The prints come in a variety of different sizes: small £3, medium £4 and large £5.

If anyone is interested in buying this work or even interested in selling their art through us where you can receive a 10% commission, please contact us on our Facebook page: the name is oppARTunity or view:- www. o p p a r t u n i t y. co.uk. We would love to hear from you. Picture left is an example of the work by a Gryffe High School pupil.

Girlguiding Needs YOU! Were you a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide? Do you remember the fun you had at weekly meetings, camps or sleepovers? Most importantly do you remember the leader who made it all possible?

Thanks to the dedication and support of 100,000 amazing volunteers, Girlguiding is active in every part of the UK. Volunteers give girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, form brilliant friendships and gain valuable life skills.

Girlguiding in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm have units full of girls - Rainbows (5-7 years), Brownies (7-10 years) Guides (10-14 years) and the Senior Section (14-25 years). Unfortunately, many of our these units have waiting lists. To continue to offer our varied programme of exciting activities, badges and outings/camps we need additional adult volunteer help.

Christine Haddock, District Commissioner for Girlguiding Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm said “We’re really looking for people who are happy to give up a few hours every week. Of course, we will be as flexible as possible but just one night a week would be a fantastic help”.

The hour and a half flew in and before everyone knew it they were stretching off muscles they never thought it was possible to use. However, throughout the whole night the main focus was never drawn away from the fact that everyone was there raising money for one thing only. Everyone who took part and donated money to the charity helped us a raise an incredible £537.06! Donations are still being given too showing that awareness of this fantastic charity has been raised and hopefully will continue to help those who need it most.

Thank you to Cheryl and to everyone who came along and gave their support.

Hannah Ross S6

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In return, Girlguiding can offer everyone support, specialised training and the opportunity to develop new skills, meet new people and have fun. It has helped many of our volunteers to learn new skills including leadership and organisational planning that might be of use at work or add value to your CV. Being a volunteer with Girlguiding also gives you access to a great range of benefits – like free training and resources, as well as a fabulous members’ scheme offering you discounts on high street brands.

Alyce Russell, Senior Section Leader, says ‘Being a leader gives me the opportunity to practice time management, budgeting and communication skills. You learn to work with other volunteers of all ages and of course we have a good laugh at the same time.’

If you would like to find out more please log on to www.girlguiding.org.uk/ interested or contact Christine directly on 07801 644 998.

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Kilmacolm Primary Pirates have taken over our nursery! This inspired the children to create pirate ships from fruit, create their very own massive pirate ship model and engage in pirate writing and reading. Our Nursery Class always make good use of the outdoors and even enjoyed making snow angels and sledging!

Our creative and determined P1’s have set up and organised a Post Office in their classroom. They have been writing a variety of texts including cards, letters and imaginative stories and then personally delivering them. There Post Office will be selling red noses to the whole school for Red Nose Day. What confident P1s we have!

Speaking of noses…Get your nose in a good book for World Book Day. As part of our World Book Day celebrations on the 5th of March we have entered a competition where David Walliams arrives at your school in a helicopter as part of his book tour. We have our fingers crossed that he will pay us a flying visit. Furthermore, children will dress up as their favourite book characters and much more.

Our P3 and P3/2 classes are very eggcited! They soon receive a very special delivery of eggs. They will care for them in their incubator and after a few days we will have beautiful and newly hatched chicks. Our responsible and confident pupils will look after the chicks and ensure that they are safe.

Our P4 chefs are looking forward to their visit from Warburton food lab where they will learn how to handle food appropriately. They are also looking forward to their visit from Generation Science. They will develop their investigative and enquiry skills and be able to apply their scientific knowledge during their interactive workshop.

Inverclyde Music Festival We had huge success again this year in the Inverclyde Music Festival. Our talented P5 class came 1st in their Group Verse Class. Similarly, our confident P2 won their singing game class. Our group success continued

with our P4 class coming 2nd in their group verse competition and our music group coming 2nd in their class. Our soloist were just as successful with Samantha Todd coming 2nd in the Vocal Soloist competition and Anna McGowan, Isla Watson and Finn Jobson coming 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively in the prepared reading competition. Our P1 and Nursery Class performed beautifully in their singing games competition and really made us proud as did our Brass Group. Well done to all pupils taking part and all staff for all of their hard work.

P6 and P7 enjoyed a fantastic afternoon tea to round off their Titanic topic.

We all came dressed as a person linked to the Titanic - from engine room crew to 1st class passengers. We even had a Captain! The afternoon was filled with dancing, official photographs and most importantly afternoon served by the waitresses, aka Mrs McKeegan, Mrs Ritchie, Mrs Blain and Mrs McWhirr.

Fairtrade Fortnight Our enterprising P7’s have organised to sell a range of Fairtrade products to pupils, parents and staff. They stall will sell a range of items including chocolate, coffee and pocket money treats.

Health and Wellbeing We are a healthy bunch and have been actively involved in a range of sports, games and activities including Taekwondo, dance and golf.

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Houston Primary School PRIDE and patriotism took centre stage at Houston Primary when the school held a week of wonderful Scottish celebrations.

Hot on the foot of Burns Night, school cook Lorna Gallagher and her team organised a mouth-watering Scottish lunch for the children complete with haggis, neeps and tatties. Talented pupils went on to amaze their teachers and classmates with performances celebrating all things Scottish - piping, Highland dancing, art, singing and recitals of Scots poetry. Our bonnie lads and lassies wore tartan on both special days and each had researched a Scots word to share with their class.

All the children had been busy learning a Scots poem and, on the day, finalists from each year group performed theirs to the school. A huge “Well done!” to P2 winner Aidan Smith, who recited The Puddock, P3’s Allanah Pollock (The Wee Dug) P4’s Sarah Smillie (Twa Leggit Mice) P5’s Catriona Christie (Social Dancin’), P6’s Emily Fallon (Up In The Mornin’ Early) and P7’s Seamus Mowberry (Willie Wastle). A special thank you also goes to parent Mrs Deeb, who taught every class in the school some Gaelic.

Congratulations to Houston’s newest celebrity! P7 pupil Emily Robb has been chosen as this year’s Gala Queen and is already looking forward to starting her royal duties. Emily and attendants Sarah Kelly and Jennifer Boyd, all 11, were chosen in a secret vote by their classmates, and were surprised and delighted when their names were announced.

It was all go in the snow as the recent chill gripped the village. P5 scientists used the snowfall to test out their learning about materials and forces as they headed outside to build igloos, while P3 were inspired by their Egyptians topic to build pyramids. Mrs McPherson was delighted with their efforts ...

And the children were very excited to make the most of the weather.

Building work of a different kind has been keeping P6 busy. They had a fantastic day visiting the new Queensferry Crossing across the Forth. The pupils were on site to see the massive route between Edinburgh and Fife taking shape and even got to put their topic learning about bridges into practise as they took part in load-bearing challenges.

They weren’t the only ones looking up. P2 enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Glasgow Science Centre planetarium.

The children have been learning about the sun, moon and planets in class and were thrilled watch their topic come to life. Our little stargazers even wowed Centre staff by showing off their knowledge of the constellation The Plough!

Happy New Year to P1! They celebrated Chinese New Year during their Open Day for parents. Mums and Dads loved their Willow Pattern plates, dragon stories and restaurant role play area. They also got the chance to view their other artwork inspired by Picasso and Rennie Mackintosh.

Senior pupils have been on a mission to impress in recent weeks as they perfected dance routines based on their favourite spy movies. PE specialist Mr Milligan came up with the fun theme to encourage P5, 6 and 7 pupils to move, balance, duck and dodge in style. The winning teams were Aaron Bennion, Jamie Newton, Douglas Boyd and Andrew Abdallah (P5), Louise Steel, Rachel Hill, Erin Kinnon and Alecia Jaconelli (P6), and Fraser Harper, Jamie Munro and Heather Smith, Sarah Kelly and Rachel O’Hare (P7), whose routines were shown at a recent assembly.

Kilbarchan East Church Tots’ Club Kilbarchan East Church Tots’ Club is once again participating in the Paisley Express Wish campaign, when vouchers will be published in the paper daily. We would be very pleased to receive vouchers any Monday morning or at church on Sundays.

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Our

City Volunteers Games

Table Tennis is on at the Houston Village Hall on Monday nights from 7.309.30pm. All welcome. Donation £2.

Contact person: Mark Canning on 07968 052538

every Monday

Celebrating the experiences of the many different groups of volunteers who helped make the XX Commonwealth Games, this exhibition features digital images and film as well as objects. It was created by a group of 13 Host City Volunteers working with Glasgow Museums’ staff.

Callanetics

Kilmacolm Bowling Club re opens its green in April. New members are most welcome why not come along and give it a try. The club will be taking part in the free National Come And Try Days on 25th & 26th April. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own bowls, as we will provide these. All you need to bring is a pair of flat soled shoes. The bowling is open to all ages and includes Gents, Ladies and Juniors. We look forward to meeting you.

Contact secretary on Tel No. 01505 872076, e-mail: norrie.johnstone@btinternet.com

by Lesley Handley

Sports Blog - Cravings

I don’t believe in cutting something out of your diet completely. If you have regularly eaten crisps, sweets and chocolate, to go cold turkey and never eat them again is realistically never going to happen. You start to resent not having them, and with each day that passes you crave them even more – you see them everywhere, smell them, taste them and stare at other people that are eating them! This continues till you cave in… but by this point you crave them so much that its’ not just 1 small bar of chocolate or 1 bag of crisps… it’s a 500g bag of Kettlechips, a 250g bar of Galaxy, and because you have eaten all that, you think ‘ah well’, I will just eat the giant bag of Haribo that’s in the cupboard too! Result – Sugar and calorie overload! Can you recover back to the healthy eating (until the next time you cave in)? Or do you now think it was all a waste of time and you go back to your old diet?

Here is the alternative… Step 1 – when you crave something, have a glass of water and see if that curbs the craving… Step 2 – Try an alternative that’s a healthier option – what about Greek yogurt with fruit, it might be sweet enough to take away the craving… Step 3 – Eat it in moderation! If you have eaten 2 bags of crisps every day for the last 3 months, cut it down to 1 bag a day – that’s a big improvement! Then cut it down to a bag every second day… that’s even better!

It is all about making small progressive steps to a healthier and better diet that will improve your health and wellbeing. To go from one extreme to another requires a massive amount of willpower that a vast number of people don’t have.

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meets

Kilbarchan Athletic Club

Sporting Blog

Lesley

The Our Games exhibition at the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens in Glasgow, celebrates the experience of the volunteers at the Commonwealth Games until 2nd August 2015.

This is a free event. Call 0141 276 0795 for further details.

Kilmacolm Bowling Club Table Tennis

REGULAR

For information or advice on Personal Training or nutrition contact me on 07512 355 877, or at Lesley_personal_trainer@hotmail.co.uk.

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 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 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

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R

ts

GVRC - Opportunity WOW! “I name this boat … “ After months of planning, and raising funds of £27,000, with support from the Wheelyboat Trust and many other sponsors, the Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley expect to be presenting a Coulam Wheelyboat V20 to the Castle Semple Centre at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park later this month. The boat will be operated by the Centre, which is accredited with an “RYA Sailability Centre of Excellence”. The boat is designed to carry four wheelchair-bound young people in their wheelchairs, together with their carers, for trips on Castle Semple Loch.

The boat will be handed over by renowned sailor Shirley Ann Robertson OBE, the first British woman to win two Olympic Gold Medals at consecutive Games, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004. However, before handover, the boat needs a name.

1st Lochwinnoch BB Open Race The 1st Lochwinnoch Boys’ Brigade is holding the Open Race this year on Saturday 28th March at 2pm. The usual course starting at The Cross for seniors, (+16) running up Calder Street, round by the golf course then up round Glenlora, down onto the cycle track to finish at the park will be in operation. It is a challenging course just short of 10 kilometres with an easy finish for the last 3k along the cycle track.

The junior races, open to girl and boy runners, is 6 kilometres for juniors age 13 – 15 (on the day of the race) and 3 kilometres for juniors age 9 – 12 (on the day of the race).

Entry fees are £6 for seniors (£4 for Scottish Athletic members) and £3 for all junior runners. Medals will be presented for the first three finishers in each category plus 1st local lady and man.

Entry forms are available from Christine Donaldson at christine39forever@hotmail.com or you can register from 11.30am - 1pm at Lochwinnoch Parish Church on the day of the race.

For more information or if you would be available to steward on the day please contact Christine Donaldson 07545 248624 or Mark Brown 01505 842209.

Daytime mid-week play at Strathgryffe Readers are invited to forward their chosen names to bob.ross7@ gmail.com by 15th March 2015.

The entries will be judged by a panel, which will include a Castle Semple Centre staff member, and the reader who submitted the name selected will be invited to the handover ceremony. Good luck with your entries.

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Strathgryffe has a variety of daytime mid-week activities for all ages to offer the local community. For adults who are retired, part time or not working and looking for a new hobby, why not come along and try our Cardio Tennis (tennis to music) or Dynamic Doubles (doubles coaching). For little ones aged 3 & 4 come along to Tots Tennis.

For members the club offers Monday Club Afternoon, Ladies Wednesday & Thursday Morning Leagues, Friday Ladies Morning Drop In Session followed by Friday Gents Drop In session. If you are not a member and would like to play with a friend you can use our Pay & Play book 24 hours in advance option. Our coaches also have availability for individual or shared coaching sessions. We also have a squash coach and fitness trainer available if tennis does not tick the box!

For our full list including evening and weekend courses for all activities please email info@strathgryffe.net

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Pedal The Park Sunday 26 April will see the first major event ‘Pedal the Park’ by the recently established community cycling club based primarily in Lochwinnoch, Ride 63. Since its conception in October 2013, the group have held monthly ride outs and social gatherings. They are made up of enthusiastic local mountain bikers, road cyclists and a couple of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park’s Outdoor Activity Team.

Pedal the Park is a ‘Cycling Festival’ comprising of a number of different rides to suit all abilities as well as an ‘event village’. For the road bikers there will be a 68km sportive around the Regional Park’s boundary, taking in the beautiful scenery around the Regional Park. It will start at Lochwinnoch, head to Greenock taking the old scenic road to Largs, then go up the Haylie Brae and back along the National Cycle Route 7 to the Centre.

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club Ladies Section

A very successful ‘Musical Night’ with Paisley Musical and Operative Society Concert Group was held in February. Approximately 70 people thoroughly enjoyed the evening and raised £200 for Ataxia UK which is a term used to describe a group of neurological conditions that gradually attack the brain.

For family groups there will be an orienteering style ride in Parkhill Wood making use of the Parkhill Challenge markers. Seasoned mountain bikers will enjoy a 10km hike up towards the summit of Misty Law, returning via Lochwinnoch village.

Clyde Muirshiel’s Sailability and accessibility credentials are impressive and this event will be no different, as it includes a hand biking route for wheelchair users. There is the option for this to be time-trialled and everyone is welcome to have a go and marvel at the design of these specially adapted bikes.

With just days to go to this event entries have already started to come in through the British Cycling (BC) online booking event page - www.britishcycling.org.uk/ events/details/126230/Pedal-the-Park The sportive has been graded as ‘Challenging’ by the British Cycling Grading system. Participants don’t need to join BC but must register (free) on the site to book their place. There is also a postal entry method. All of the options and prices are on the event homepage hosted by Clyde Muirshiel - www.clydemuirshiel. co.uk/things-to-do/cycling/pedal-the-park.

Join us at Castle Semple Centre to cheer on the participants and see the various entertainments, stalls and demonstrations in the event village. Also Martin of RT Cycles Kilbirnie, will have some of the newest models on show at the bike shed if you just fancy a wee nosey or trying out bike hire.

Pictures (left) shows Ladies Section Captain, Anna MacDougall (right) and above members enjoying the evening.

Ride 63 was set up to help develop new off road trail rides for cyclists in the area covered by Ordnance Survey map 63, where Clyde Muirshiel lies. The range of interests covered is wide and monthly ride outs embrace this and a variety of abilities. If you would like to get involved but don’t fancy the cycling part then the event organisers are also looking for volunteers to marshal the sportive and family rides. These people would be essential to ensure the rider’s safety on the challenging route. If you would like to take part then get in touch with the event organisers at routes@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. Follow us at www. twitter.com/clydemuirshiel or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ clydemuirshielregionalpark.

Sisters start for Scotland Ex-Birkmyre minis and Gryffe high school pupils Louise and Siobhan McMillan were selected for the starting line-up to represent the Scotland U20s in a development game against the full RAF ladies team. The match was played at Meggetland in Edinburgh in front of a large crowd of enthusiastic spectators who were rewarded with a fine display of flowing rugby. Scotland seized the initiative when Siobhan playing at 8 picked up from the scrum and powered through three opposition players to score within the first five minutes. Scotland’s game plan and organisation proved to be too much for the RAF ladies and Scotland ran out comfortable winners at 32-7. Louise played at blindside, and as the main lineout jumper was instrumental in ensuring that the RAF did not get very much ball that they could do anything with.

Their next game will be played on the 1 March against the Czech Republic ladies team which should give them a taste of what is expected of them if they are to make the move up to the Scotland Ladies team.

Both girls started playing rugby at Birkmyre playing for club and school in leagues and tournaments, and now play with ladies teams in Glasgow, Siobhan at Cartha and Louise at Hillhead. Birkmyre continues to welcome girls to play rugby and works closely with SRU development officer Brendan McGoarty to develop young rugby players.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Three Reasons Juicing Can Transform Your Health If you wanted to do one thing today to transform your health, the best advice I could give you would be to find yourself a juicer and start adding fresh juices to your diet. Making a daily fresh juice part of what you do is one of the best investments you can make for your health - it’s certainly what turned mine around and it’s been part of my routine ever since.

There are plenty of reasons why juicing is so good for you, but here are my top three: 1. Juicing is the easiest way to eat enough vegetables. We all know that to avoid the ill-health and obesity trends we need to be aiming for 8 servings of fruit and vegetables each day, but most of us get stuck in the “same salad” rut or struggle to chew our way through our quota. Juicing gives you a great head start and actually helps you absorb more nutrients as the juicer does the hard work and “pre-digests” by separating the juice from the fibre, saving your body a great deal of energy.

2. Juicing is the fastest way of getting nutrition into the body. Drinking a freshmade juice is almost like receiving an IV infusion of vitamins, minerals and enzymes which can be absorbed in as little as 20 minutes - which allows the body to use its saved energy to repair and nourish its 30 trillion cells.

Juicing is also a lifeline when you’re sick - we’re surrounded by stress in our diets, environment and lifestyles, and juicing is the perfect antidote, keeping the immune system healthy.

3. Juicing gets you more compliments. When you drink fresh, vegetable based juices, you’re nourishing and cleansing every cell in your body, inside out.

As the cells in your skin and eyes become clearer and healthier, you’ll begin to look different too: better skin, a ‘glow’, healthier hair and weight loss are some of the most common “side effects”. A daily fresh juice, on an empty stomach, will give you more energy, improve your mood and protect your cells from disease and premature ageing, as it will be bursting with enzymes, minerals, vitamins and phytonutrients.

Hand on heart, juicing is something that I recommend to everyone, from kids to grandparents. All of my retreats are based on a juice cleanse programme which is a great way to detox, but truly good health can only come from establishing, healthy habits into your routine that will support you for life. We all need good nutrition to keep us at our best, and juicing is the simplest way to reap the most benefits.

Katrina Mather, Founder of The Body Toolkit www.thebodytoolkit.com

Fancy getting Intu Curling?

Open to all standards of curler from beginners up to “Expert”, the Braehead Saturday Sweep takes place on most Saturdays throughout the curling the season. Registration is in the Curling Bar at 10.45am and we finish about 1.15pm.

The charge is only £5 and Coaching is provided if required. Names then go in the hat for several ends of “Fun Curling” Everybody is welcome and there is no need to book. Just turn up on the day with a clean pair of trainers and a warm jumper.

(Not suitable for groups but contact the Curling Office for more information regarding Group Curling.)

The next dates will be February 28th, March 7th, 14th and 21st For further detail, contact David Horne, Curling Development Officer, e: David. horne@intu.co.uk t: 0141 885 4611 (Option 3 then 2). Or visit the website: http://www.curlbraehead.co.uk/saturday-sweep.html

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The Osteopaths - Body in Balance Osteopathy recognises the importance of the link between the structural balance of the human body and how it functions. Imagine for example, a car that has one of its front wheels not quite pointing straight. It may run well for a while, but after a few thousand miles, the tyre will wear out. You can apply this example to the body, which is why it’s important to keep it in good balance.

Osteopaths consider each person as an individual. Utilising a wide range of gentle techniques including stretching, massage and joint mobilisation, the osteopath will work with your body to create the perfect conditions to encourage the healing process.

The most common conditions we treat are:• Back and Neck pain • Shoulder and Arm problems • Pelvis Hip and Leg problems • Sports and other injuries However, patients have found Osteopathy helpful for many other conditions. If you want to find out more, your osteopath will be happy to talk to you. We treat children as well as adults.

Osteopaths study for four years for an undergraduate degree.

The British Medical Associations guidance for GP’s states that doctors can safely refer to osteopaths. Osteopathy is recommended by National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) for low back pain.

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

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@

MUSIC TUITION

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

Business

MISCELLANEOUS

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

SITUATIONS VACANT CHILDCARE Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders.

P/time or F/time vacancies

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Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to find your best

19/02/2015 14:01:53

RE .84

www.advertizer.co.uk

DEADLINES

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

info@advertizer.co.uk

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

Fri 13th March April ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th March • Delivery: 27th March • MAY ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 17th April • Delivery: 1st May

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

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

local

councillors

RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

Ward 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie & Howwood: Cllrs John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and Iain McMillan Ward 8 - Johnstone (North), Kilbarchan & Lochwinnoch: Councillors Derek Bibby, Andy Doig and Christopher Gilmour Ward 9 - Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield & Linwood: Councillors Stuart Clark, Audrey Doig, Anne Hall and Allan Noon Ward 10 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank: Councillors Maria Brown, Mike Holmes and James Maclaren INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (P.Glasgow, Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village): Cllrs David Wilson, Jim MacLeod, Stephen McCabe and James McColgan

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PROPERTY HOLIDAY HOMES

PROPERTY TO LET

march 2015

65 65

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

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

Advertising throughout The Gryffe Advertizer:

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.

churches

BRIDGE OF WEIR

Freeland Church: Rev KN Gray BA BD. Morning Ser vice 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: 1st Mar - North View Road; 8th Mar - Park Road; 15th Mar - Peat Road; 22nd Mar - Prieston Road; 29th Mar - Ranfurly Place and Road. 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 Carrick Centre: 11am Family services with SS for children age 5-12; 6pm Eve Service; Mid-week Home Bible Study; For more information contact; Rev D Snelson 01505 612722.

Houston and Killellan Kirk: www.houstonkirk.org. 11am Morning Worship 01 Mar - 11am, 2pm & 6.45pm The Sacrament of Holy Communion. 8th Mar - 11am Morning Worship. 15th Mar - 11am Morning Worship.

22nd Mar - 11am Morning Worship: The Sacrament of Baptism. The Annual Stated Meeting will follow at the end of Morning Worship. 29th Mar - 9.45am Early Service: 11am Palm Sunday Morning Wor ship. 30th Mar–3rd April Holy Week Services. All Services begin at 7.30pm: Monday Evening : Houston & Killellan Kirk, Tuesday Evening Joint Service with Linwood Parish at Houston Kirk, Wednesday Evening : Joint Service at Linwood Parish Church, Maundy Thursday: The Sacrament of the Last Supper, Good Friday Evening: Houston & Killellan Kirk. 5th April - 8am. Early Morning EASTER Service Sacrament of Holy Communion. Bacon Butty Breakfast after this Service.

11am Easter Morning Family 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: The World Day of a Prayer Service will held in St Fillans Church, Houston, on Friday 6th Mar at 7.30pm. All are welcome. Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: TuesSat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm. Reconciliation: Sat 1010.30am 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.

Definitions: “Standards” means the British Code of Advertising Practice and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act, 1968, the Consumer Credit Act 1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisement (Disclosure) Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements.

It is hereby agreed that: • The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising.

• All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards.

• Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher.

• The Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear.

• In the event of any error, misprint or omission by the Publisher in the printing of an Advertisement, the Publisher will either re-insert the advertisement, adjust the cost or provide a refund. This does not apply if the Advertisement has been approved by the Advertising Client prior to publication. The total liability of the Publisher for such an occurrence shall not exceed the amount of a full refund for that particular Advertisement.

• The Advertising Client agrees to indemnify the Publisher in respect of all costs, damages or other charges falling upon the Publisher as the result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the publication of the Advertisement, or any one or more of the series of Advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions supplied to the Publisher.

• Readers are reminded that when purchasing items or services advertised in the Publication that the Publisher cannot be held in any way responsible for the quality or correctness of the items or services included in the Advertisement.

Editorial throughout The Gryffe Advertizer:

The opinions of the Contributors to this Publication are not necessarily the official views of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to edit or refuse any material submitted for publication.

Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mar y 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.

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

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

St Columba Church of Scotland: (charity no SC007992) Minister Rev Douglas Cranston. Morning Worship Sundays at 11am.

Wednesday break 10.30am.

Thursday Bible Study 7.30pm – 8.30pm. Thursday Prayer Meeting 8.40pm – 9.15pm.

Holy Week Services will be held each evening from Mon 30th Mar to Fri 3rd Apr at

7.30pm, in the large hall, Bridge of Weir Road. Speakers are : Rev Douglas Cranston, Rev Alistair Horne, Rev Gerry Middleton, Rev Jonathon De Groot. Come and join us as we remember and rejoice in the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ 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) S u n d ay : 11 a m M o r n i n g 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.

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

DEADLINES

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

Items For Sale Baby Equipment Baby boy clothes newborn - 3 months. Includes snowsuit, sleeping bag, dungarees, tops and accessories. Good condition. £10. Tel: 01505 610695 Clippasafe Walking Harness and Reins Pink (2 pairs), 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. Excellent conditions £20. Tel: 01505 874870.

Trikes unisex colours, good condition, £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 condition. £20 each.

Tel: 01505 874870.

Clothes & Shoes Brand new warm soft wool sweaters/zippers/cardigans. High quality, choice of colours/patterns. £30.

Tel: 01505 843865.

Girls Tap Shoes - Black size 10, black size 11 and white size 12. All in good condition £5 a pair. Tel: 01505 873488 Girls Ballet Leotards (Roch Valley) light pink age 4 and dark pink (raspberry) age 5 hardly worn in good condition £5 each. Tel: 01505 873488 Prom Dress, long, size 8,dark teal, tulle, perfect condition, cost £250 from Wish, accept £70. Tel: 01505 352513.

Lovely white ball gown, size 14. Still in full length cover. £35. Tel: 01505 506385.

Four ankle length (size 16) coats, Grey, Camel, Winter White and Black velvet, all as new. £60 each ono.

Tel: 01505 506385.

New Rhode women’s boots, natural fur inside, black size 5. £30. Tel: 07517 065917.

H ousehold & G arden 2 Round Ikea Wooden tables. Height 21ins / 53.5 cm x circumference 56ins / 142.5cm. Blue/Greenish tops. £5 For the two. Tel: 01505 872813.

Single Bed. Pinewood frame with sprung mattress. £50 Tel 01505 614943.

Tartan Cushions. Pure wool to warm your back. Well padded. Various colours. £8. Tel: 01505 843865.

6 Wrought Iron Dining chairs for sale. Bespoke design. VGC. Red cushions. £150ono. Tel: 01505 610179 Once used inflatable EZ double bed on legs, just unzip and plug into a socket. £100. Tel: 01505 345629 Bathroom mirror (bought in Italy), Bronze, glass and shelf with silver glass. Size 33” x 28”. £25. Tel: 01505 337106 Two seater sofa in pastel colours, chevron pattern in hard-wearing velvet. Little used, vgc, non-smoking house. £75ono. Tel: 01505 873354 Modern Calligaris dining table, rectangular 130 x 85cm with satin finish stainless steel frame, pale matt wood top, internally stored leaf to extend to 8 seater. vgc £150ono. Tel: 01505 873354 Double bed. Beech wooden frame and headboard with deep sprung comfortable mattress. £75 collection only. Tel: 07921 709205 Bronze bathroom mirror, bought in Italy. Glass shelf with silver glass. Size 33” x 28”. £25. Tel: 01505 337106.

Basket chair £5. Tel: 01505 326215 1 x 9 pane bevelled edge mirror, size 44” x 29” wide. £25. Tel: 01505 690763.

64-67 CLASSIFIED_246_MAR15.ind.indd 66

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.

12 cups/saucers + teapot (Poole - summertime pattern). Also dinner sets £120ono each set. Tel 01505 506385 Bedroom basket chair. £ 2 0 o n o Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 506385 3 piece lounge suite, Primrose loose covers. Excellent condition. £199ono Tel: 01505 506385 Stair/hall runner, Wilton, dark red, traditional pattern. £50ono. Tel: 01505 506385.

Single bed and king sized bed, new 1000 spring mattresses with high quality new bedding. £199ono.

Tel: 01505 506385 Venetian stool. £199ono Tel: 01505 506385 Stag bedroom suite with sleigh bed, two bedside cabinets and vanity unit - Cherrywood. £199 per item. Tel: 01505 506385 Electrical & Gas Baxi Windermere Gas Fired stove top flue BRAND NEW £150 bensloch@ hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240. Bridge of Weir.

Two bar electric fire (log effect) £15. Tel: 01505 326215 Zanussi ZVF17 table-top freezer. 50 litre (1.7 cu.ft.) capacity. Dimensions 52cm high x 53cm wide x 59cm deep. £45 Tel: 01505 614943.

Hinari MX606BL Microwave Oven. 700W, 17 litre (0.6 cu.ft.) capacity. Blue. Dimensions 46cm high x 29cm wide x 34cm deep. £35 Tel: 01505 614943.

Pets Rabbit hutch. Good Condition. Free. Tel: 01505 862684 Sports Football shoes NIKE ,size 9,grey colour ,used, £8.

Tel: 07517 065917.Cobra Junior Golf Clubs. Trolley included. Good condition. £60. Tel. 07775 695095 .

Set of 4 Henselite bowls, size 4 with super grip 79Kkw together with Henselite bowling bag (with rigid base to hold 4 bowls and accessories) FQS £45.

Tel: 01505 612723 Set of 4 Taylor Lignoid Bowels size 0 with super grip together with trolley bag.

Excellent condition. FQS £40. Tel: 01505 612723 Ladies white bowling shoe, size 3. Hardly worn. Excellent condition. £10. Tel: 01505 612723.

Set of 4 Taylor International Bowls, size 3. VGC. FQS £30. Tel: 01505 612723 Ladies white leather skating boots, never worn, size 5. £35. Tel: 01505 506385.

Collectors bicycles RALEIGH Superb 1960s green Sturmey Archer gears enclosed chaincase rod brakes etc in amazing condition £200 bensloch@ hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240.

Bicycle 17” ladies frame Falcon lovely bike in good condition £60. bensloch@ hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240.

Dunlop Performance Golf Club Set & Bag, 12 clubs, graphite shafts, excellent condition, 07954 364125.

Toys/Games/DVD DVD ‘s all kinds ,CD,PC games etc, £4-10. Tel: 07517 065917.

Wii Fit £70. Complete Package, Board, Guitar. Driving Wheel, 14 Games VGC. Tel: 01505 321188.

Other Items 10 tubes of Rowney Georgian Oil colours for artists new in box £15. Tel: 01505 614 503 23 Issues of ‘DETAIL’ Architectural Reference Magazine. Itemised list can be provided. Good used condition.RRP £12 per copy. Selling all for £100 ono. Tel 07790 954849.

Dunlop Blue Response 205/55 R16 91H 8mm.

As new. £35. Tel: 01505 331982.

info@advertizer.co.uk

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

Fri 13th March April ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13th March • Delivery: 27th March • MAY ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 17th April • Delivery: 1st May Piano keyboard synthesizer. £50. Tel: 01505 345629 Yamaha BK 2 organ. Good condition. Offers. Tel: 01505 873361 VHS video recorder, working order, free. Tel: 01505 613300 Watch Acuct-Japan ,battery operated £15. Tel: 07517 065917.

Silver jewellery chain £25.

Tel: 07517 065917.

Amber necklace vintage £36. Tel: 07517 065917.

Silver ring with zircon. Brand new with tags, £30. Tel: 07517 065917.

Silver earrings with amethyst - dark plum colour £16. Tel: 07517 065917.

Two heavy duty door closers. £5 each. Tel: 01505 690763.

1 stranded steel cable, approximately 30ft, with eyelet on one end. Other end damaged. £20. Tel: 01505 690763 Smart Mobile Phone HTC one M7 with charger £175 bensloch@hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240.

Black Berry 9900 smart phone the best one bigger screen in excellent used condition £120 bensloch@ hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240.

Ear syringing kit two syringes and basin £45 bensloch@hotmail.com Tel: 07791 688240.

Wanted Items

Any old Original Shetland wool jumpers or cardigans.

Ladies, gentlemen or older child size. Any condition.

Tel: 01505 614377 Old fashioned monopoly game, they would like to sell? Condition not important as long as all the pieces were there. Tel: 01505 872813 Piano wanted in good condition, Tel 01505 874870.

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.

19/02/2015 14:02:01

www.advertizer.co.uk

march 2015

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Advertizers - A to Z

by category Accountants & Financial

Firewood & Logs

Affluent Financial Planning . . 25 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 25 Stewart Independent Financial . . 24

Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 14 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,48 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Architectural Services

Funeral Services

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

Art, Gifts & Flowers Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 16 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 7

Auctioneers & Valuers Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 4

Automotive Services AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 26

Bathrooms Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10

Blacksmith & Metalwork Iron House Stoves Limited . . 42 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 38

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 F & B Building Scotland Ltd . . 38 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 5 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24

Care Services & Homes Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6 CRC Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Childcare Abbey Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 32

Framing Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 16 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 8 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 43

Garage Doors & Gates Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 49 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 53 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 50 Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 51 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 48 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 47 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 51 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 51 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 48 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51 West of Scotland Landscape . . 50

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 14 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 43 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 14 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 15 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 36 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 35 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 6 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 34 Vanda’s Mobile Hairdressing . . 40

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 36 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 35 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 62 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 60 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 41 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 40 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 12 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Lauras Nail & Beauty Lounge . . 31 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 31 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 36 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Home Hardware First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 17,49

Home Improvements

ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 5 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 3

Driveways

Home Interiors

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

Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 20

Computer, IT & Web

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

Education Nomad Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57

Electricians Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Delta Electrical Services . . 33 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Entertainment Inverclyde Council . . . . . . . . . 35

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 38

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 Tr a d e r, D e a l e r, A g e n t , Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

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Home Security

Property, Sales & Let

Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 42 Network Scotland . . . . . . . . . . 4

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . 27,28,29 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Joiners CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 16

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10 CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7

Laundry & Ironing Alpha Laundry Services . . . . . 40

Leisure & Recreation Kilmacolm Golf Club . . . . . . . . 62 Lochwinnoch Golf Club . . . . . . 63 Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 61 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 61

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 14 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 41 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 McDonald Decorators . . . . . . . . 35 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Pet Services & Training Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 44

Photographers Passports To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 37 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 5 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 14 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 43 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 15 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 6 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Restaurant & Bars Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 32

Retail Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 17,49 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 7 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 20 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 11

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 37 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 5 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55

Solicitors Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

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

Sports Clubs & Events Kilmacolm Golf Club . . . . . . . . 62 Lochwinnoch Golf Club . . . . . . 63 Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 61 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 61

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 21

Tiling G J Tiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

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

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 51 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,48 Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 48 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 32 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Network Scotland . . . . . . . . . . 4

Upholstery Services P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 3

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Art Windows and Doors . . . . . . 13 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

@ease Removals & Transport . . 6 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 49 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 14 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 53 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 14 Abbey Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affluent Financial Planning . . 25 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 15 Alpha Laundry Services . . . . . 40 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 50 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Arlene Donald . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 36 Art Windows and Doors . . . . . . 13 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 35 Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 62 Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 32 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 BOW Design Architect . . . . . . . 14 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 42 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 37 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 43 Caledonian Wood Fuels . . . . . . 14 Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 51 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 5 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Classique Window Blinds . . . . 8 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Clyde Coast Décor . . . . . . . . . 41 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 60 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Collins and Paterson Auctionee . . 4 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 6 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . 27,28,29 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 16 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 48 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 47 CRC Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Crosslee Driver Training . . . 5 CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 Delta Electrical Services . . 33 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 32 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 DJY Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 51 Dogs & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 F & B Building Scotland Ltd . . 38 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 41 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 25 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 14

G J Tiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 51 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 17,49 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 51 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 26 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Henderson’s Flowers . . . . . . . . 7 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 5 Inverclyde Council . . . . . . . . . 35 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 42 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 37 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 JBM Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 John McKay Gas & Heating Eng . . 14 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 43 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 21 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 6 K9 CHAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 40 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 12 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 Kilmacolm Golf Club . . . . . . . . 62 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Lauras Nail & Beauty Lounge . . 31 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,48 Lochwinnoch Golf Club . . . . . . 63 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 15 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 5 McDonald Decorators . . . . . . . . 35 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 38 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Network Scotland . . . . . . . . . . 4 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 34 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 31 Nomad Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 3 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 3 Passports To Go . . . . . . . . . . . 15 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BK Purple Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 48 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 48 Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 61 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Saltire Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 44 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 36 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57 Stewart Independent Financial . . 24 Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 61 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 20 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55 Travel a la Carte . . . . . . . . . 3 Vanda’s Mobile Hairdressing . . 40 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51 West of Scotland Landscape . . 50 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 11 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 16

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68

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

March 2015 No.246

Distribu

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER - your LOCAL monthly magazine Check our website at www.advertizer.co.uk Next Issue: No.247 April 2015 Deadline: Fri 13th March 2015 8

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