254 November 2015 - Gryffe Advertizer

November 2015

FRE 1 CO E PY

No.254 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

ADVERTIZER Fireworks at The Erskine Bridge by Andy Stark, The Studio, Bridge of Weir

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November 2015 No. 254

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EXPERT GUTTER CLEANING Nutech Cleaning are proud to announce their latest service of gutter cleaning with a vacuum cleaner! This new system is a more effective and safer alternative to working from a ladder and removes the dangers associated with ladder work. This system is ideal for gutters over conservatories that would normally be inaccessible and is suitable for flats up to three storeys high.

The consequences of leaving gutters blocked can be dire with the possibility of extensive water damage leading to repair bills running into thousands of pounds.

Give us a call now for a free quote - 01505 863 863.

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This

Month

November is packed with Fireworks, Festivals, Fetes, Family Fun, Fantastic Christmas lights and Funny pantomimes. It’s amazing just how much goes on in such a small area. What a Fantastic community!

We celebrate Bonfire Night with Glasgow Green Fireworks on Wednesday 4th November, followed by Knapps Bonfire & Fireworks, Paisley Fireworks Spectacular and Bishopton Fireworks Display which are all on Saturday 7th November.

There are lots of festive light switch-ons - Paisley Xmas Lights are on Saturday 14th November, Johnstone Xmas Lights on Saturday 21st November, Renfrew and Linwood Xmas Lights both on Saturday 28th November, and Bridge of Weir Christmas Lights on Thursday 3rd December.

The annual Santa Sleigh will be visiting the following areas in December and we have a full list of routes on p22.

• Houston from Tuesday 1st to Monday 7th Dec. • Brookfield on Tuesday 8th Dec. • Kilmacolm (North) Wednesday 9th, (South) Thursday 10th Dec. • Quarriers on Saturday 12th Dec. • Bridge of Weir from Friday 11th to Wednesday 16th Dec. Please support this wonderful event as all the money raised goes to the groups involved on the evening - a host of volunteers giving up their time to raise funds.

And don’t forget all our local pantos which are great fun and highly entertaining! So if you haven’t been to one yet, this is your last chance to get tickets! Check our ‘What’s On’ listings for details of all these local events - there’s plenty going on for all tastes.

Although it seems a bit early to be thinking of Christmas, our next edition will be the last one for 2015. So if you want to be in the magazine, please get in touch well ahead of the deadline date of Friday 13th November.

Rona

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: No.255 December 2015 Deadline: Fri 13 November 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.

contents local news..........................8-12 what’s on..........................14-23 dental blog.............................20 business news.................26-27 it blog..................................26 local history..........................28 financial blog.........................27 on the road........................32-33 pets...............................62-63 pet blog...............................62 village news.......................36-47

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outdoors..........................48-53 photography hints & tips.........53 sports & clubs news.............59-61 sporting blog..........................61 schools news.....................54-58 business classified................64 property classified.................65 church listings....................65 deadlines dates...................65 sales & wants......................66 advertiser directory................67

Remembrance Sunday Remembrance Sunday is 8th November this year. The times of the Legion Parades are 9.15am for 9.30am in Houston, 12.30pm in Kilmacolm and 2.15pm for 2.30pm at Bridge of Weir (we will form up in the car park next to the Legion Clubhouse for the BoW parade).

There is also a Reunion buffet dance at The Legion Club, Bridge of Weir on Fri 6th Nov at 7.30pm - the dancing will be to Sandy Cunningham.

Tickets are £4 and can be obtained at the bar.

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Interesting facts about fireworks The biggest occasion for fireworks in the UK is Guy Fawkes Night (5th November).

It is a celebration of the failing of the Gunpowder Plot on 5 November 1605, an attempt to kill King James I at the Houses of Parliament.

The biggest annual fireworks display in Europe is the International Festival concert in Edinburgh, where a million fireworks are set off in less than an hour.

Dreaming about fireworks means that you like to be the centre of attention and are showing off to others. It also symbolizes enthusiasm and exhilaration.

Queen Elizabeth created an honorary title, "Fire Master of England" for the individual who created the best fireworks.

The largest chocolate firework was 3m high and 1.5m in diameter containing 60kg of Swiss Cailler chocolates and was released in Zurich on New Year's Eve 2002.

The first fireworks were only orange and white. The Middle Ages created new colours by adding different salts. The hardest colour to create is blue.

A rocket can reach speeds of 150mph, but the shell can reach as high as 200 metres.

Half of all firework injuries are to children under the age of 16.

Sparklers can be used to make funny pictures. All you need is a totally dark setting, a sparkler to draw with and a camera recording a long exposure.

A sparkler burns at a temperature over 15 times the boiling point of water. Three sparklers burning together generate the same heat as a blowtorch.

When your sparkler goes out, put it in a bucket of water.

Country Roads Campaign Last week in my ministerial capacity I joined Scotland Rugby international Stuart Hogg in launching a new campaign urging drivers to watch their speed on country roads and help reduce the number of fatalities. Last year along 755 were killed or seriously injured whilst driving on country roads, accounting for 55% of the fatal accidents on Scotland’s roads. The Scottish Government is committed to achieving safer road travel in Scotland for everyone. This campaign will encourage motorists to drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions.

This new campaign is particularly targeted at young male drivers between 22-40, who research shows have a higher risk of being involved in a crash. I urge all road users in Renfrewshire to take care when driving, particularly on country roads, as you really never know what hazards are waiting for you around the corner.

Flu Jab The national flu immunisation programme is now underway, and I want to encourage all those who are eligible to be ready for flu. The free vaccination will be offered to people with underlying health conditions, those who are pregnant or are older than 65, as flu can lead to serious complications which may need hospital treatment. This year will also see all parents of children aged 2-5 targeted to encourage them to make an appointment with their GP if they want their child vaccinated, and I hoping this will lead to more people being vaccinated than ever before. So do not delay, make an appointment now and help beat the flu this winter.

Glasgow Airport Last month Glasgow Airport was crowned the UK Airport of the Year 2015. As constituency MSP for the Airport, I have said on many occasions that the Airport is going from strength to strength, and with this award, as well as new routes to Canada and Eastern Europe announced last month the growing passenger numbers show no signs of dwindling. Glasgow Airport is a huge contributor to the local economy of Renfrewshire, not to mention a substantial employer.

Therefore, it’s continued success must be welcomed by everyone across the area.

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BBC Children in Need’s vision is that every child in the UK has a safe, happy and secure childhood and the chance to reach their potential. With your help and generosity, we fund projects for disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. To find out about more about the work we do, and how your contributions can make a difference to children, visit our website at www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk There are lots of ways to raise money for this great cause, including dressing up as your childhood hero - why not host a fancy dress party or a dress up day at your school? Visit the website to get your fundraising pack today.

The appeal night will be on Friday 13th November.

SECC, Glasgow Fri 6 & Sat 7 Nov: 10am - 6pm Sun 8 Nov: 10am - 5.30pm

Fri 27 Nov to Sun 29 Nov at the SECC, Glasgow The ultimate celebration of all things fun, fabulous and female and it’s all under one roof. From the hottest fashion trends, latest beauty treatments and a cocktail hour that lasts all day long. Get tickets today from www.secc.co.uk

Come and enjoy a great day out. The Show will be packed to the brim with first class entertainment from stars including Tom Kitchin, Mary Berry and James Martin, fine food and drink, dozens of stalls, great shopping, and plenty of inspiration – it really is the tastiest way to celebrate your love of good food! Get your tickets on the website - www.secc.co.uk

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

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

Wednesday 25th November 2-4pm Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge Wednesday 25th November 7-9pm Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge If you are inserted in attending contact Morag on morag.Thow@gcu.ac.uk or 01505 843183.

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

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Dr Morag Thow

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Kilmacolm war memorial by Kevin Toner

Help us to Help you and yours Are you, a family member, or a neighbour struggling with bills, living in a leaky damp, cold, home that’s hard to keep warm?

We can help.

We do free home repairs and actions to improve the warmth and comfort at home for those who can’t afford it and need it most.

We have already helped over 30 local people in our community with practical repairs and actions in their homes. Some examples include filling holes around doors and windows to cut out draughts, fixing and insulating leaky pipes, adding secondary glazing to single glazed windows to keep the heat in.

Our energy team are experienced and reliable and we also work with local tradespersons. No job too small.

If you or anyone you know might need help to make your home more cosy or make someone’s life easier please get in touch with us on 01505 612034, email: jen@myleapproject.org. All enquiries are as always treated in the strictest of confidence.

“Mental Health – Getting Better” Saks & Hart launch their gorgeous new Christmas range on Saturday 31st October.... browse, shop and enjoy a glass of something bubbly!

Specialising in country and period interiors, with a contemporary twist, Saks & Hart successfully mixes a whole range of styles, from rustic French farmhouse to Scottish shooting lodge. They have lots to make your home beautiful at Christmas, from furniture, lamps and mirrors, to silk flowers and stunning Christmas decorations that you will love.

You’ll also find lots of fabulous gifts there, including beautiful faux fur huffs and scarves, handmade silver jewellery by Rosie Brown, and a new range of their own exquisitely scented candles, diffusers and room scents.

Whilst you are there, why not enjoy a winter walk by the river and indulge in some delicious coffee and cake. Saks & Hart sits in a truly idyllic setting by the river, opposite Dalgarven Mill Museum and Coffee Shop.

If you haven’t discovered Saks & Hart, it’s the perfect place for Christmas shopping, with free parking, and can be found just off the A737 between Kilwinning and Dalry.

For more information about the shop or to shop on-line, visit their website www.saksandhart.com. Gift vouchers are also available. never miss an issue again! visit www.advertizer.co.uk or http://free.yudu.com/library/18833/Gryffe-Advertizer-issues

A local drama group will perform a play to illustrate the change in approaches to mental health. The Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival will host the production called “Mental Health – Getting Better” as part of the 3 week programme of events celebrating mental health.

The performance takes place over four short acts starting with the 1697 Bargarran Witches through to the present day.

Creative Director Cammy Fraser said: “The objective of the play is to raise awareness of mental health and to challenge some of the stigma which still exists around the subject.” He added “People experiencing mental ill health often remain one of the most socially excluded groups; we would like to change that.”

The play’s actors are all local people, many of whom are building their selfesteem as a result. Patricia Tyrrell said “It’s given me a voice. Since I started acting my confidence has risen dramatically. Plus I’ve made new friends too.”

This year’s festival is based around the theme of passion and includes people from disadvantaged and marginalised groups.

“Mental Health – Getting Better” will be performed at 7.30pm at Paisley Abbey on November 6th. Tickets are £5/3 and can be purchased on the door.

For more information about the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival visit mhfestival.com.

2015 Poppy Day Remembrance Sunday will be on 8th November this year.

Help us give something back to the Armed Forces community who risk their lives for our nation. Donate now or find out about other ways to contribute at the website - www.britishlegion. org.uk Whether you help us as a Poppy Appeal Organiser and Collector, Caseworker, Visitor, Information Volunteer, Fundraiser or in another way, a little of your time makes a big difference.

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The Rucksack Project Paisley Corps are running with the Rucksack Project this year. Will you consider filling a rucksack with basic essentials: e.g., hat and gloves, jacket, sleeping bag and thermos flask, which can then be distributed to people sleeping rough in the area? The rucksacks can be dropped off at the Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley between 12pm and 5pm on Saturday 14 November. If you have any questions please email susan.niven@ntlworld. com, or message via Facebook.

Important Dates For Santa Sleigh Routes 2015 HOUSTON 1st - 7th December Also...

BRIDGE OF WEIR 11th - 16th December

Brookfield 8th December

Kilmacolm 9th & 10th December

Quarriers 12th December

Santa and his little helpers will also been making collections for charity: 5th December Co-op store, Livery Walk, Bridge Of Weir

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12th December Morrisons store, Johnstone

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Calendar Launch Night Local Howwood photographer Caroline Stewart has produced a calendar in aid of Cancer Research UK. At a Hollywood themed launch night at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew for 453 guests the calendar was revealed.

18 brave men, woman and children took part on the calendar and 12 of them are local to Renfrewshire.

Every model in the calendar has had cancer or is still fighting this dreadful disease.

The night was a huge success with raffles, an auction and ÂŁ13,190.60 was raised with the total going up daily with the sale of the calendars.

You can purchase a calendar for ÂŁ10 from www.facebook.com/ crcalendar2016 or by calling Caroline on 07585 447561 or mail on info@ carolinestewartphotography.co.uk

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Book yourself a chance to meet top authors BOOK fans are getting the chance to meet two of Scotland’s best-known authors when they make a personal appearance in local libraries.

The free events - which are part of Book Week Scotland between November 23 and 29 - feature broadcaster and writer, Lesley Riddoch and award-winning author, poet and playwright, Alan Spence.

Organised by Renfrewshire Leisure, who now run arts and cultural services as well as sports and leisure centres locally, Alan Spence will discuss his writing and literary career at Johnstone Library, on Monday, 23rd November at 7pm and Lesley Riddoch will be at Linwood Library at 7pm, on Wednesday, 25th November.

Alan Spence’s most recent books are the novel Night Boat, a poetry collection Morning Glory, with Elizabeth Blackadder and the play, No Nothing.

Dinner & Dance Every Saturday night from 8pm - 11pm at Willow Bank Hotel, 96 Greenock Road, Largs. Booking essential. Call 01475 675435 for further information.

This play, which has been performed in Glasgow and Aberdeen, imagines poet, Edwin Morgan and trade unionist Jimmy Reid meeting in the afterlife and discussing the meaning of life and post referendum Scotland. Alan will read and discuss extracts from the play and other new work.

Lesley Riddoch will talk about her writing, particularly her recent book, Blossom, which is an outspoken analysis of Scotland’s problems and the country’s potential, Lesley will recount the views of ordinary Scots and draws on her own experience of life in Norway, Ireland, Iceland as well as Scotland.

Elaine Finlay, Renfrewshire Libraries development co-ordinator said: “Book Week Scotland is about encouraging people of all ages and walks of life to enjoy the pleasures of reading books.

“We want to encourage more people to read books and use the excellent services we have in the network of libraries in Renfrewshire.

“We’re bringing two big names of Scottish writing to our local libraries and I hope lots of people will take the chance to come along and meet these talented authors and ask the questions they always wanted to ask them.”

To book a place at these events, call Renfrewshire Libraries on 033 300 1188.

Please Give Blood Boglestone Community Centre, Dubbs Place, Port Glasgow Monday 9th November - 4pm -7.30pm

Community Centre, Greenock Rd, Bishopton Friday 13th November - 4pm - 7.30pm

The Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge Of Weir Monday 14th December - 4pm - 7.30pm

Linwood Sports Centre, Brediland Rd, Linwood Tuesday 15th December - 4pm - 7.30pm

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm Wednesday 30th December - 4pm - 7.30pm

You can also drop in to give blood at 8 Nelson Mandela Place, Glasgow. Call today to make an appointment on 0845 90 90 999.

Go on - the only think you’ll feel is good about yourself!

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Glasgow Santa Dash 15

Festive Friends Purple Party

Last year’s Santa Dash raised £32,000 for its two nominated charities - the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice and the Sunday Mail Centenary Fund.

Friday 13 November at 7pm in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew. £35 a ticket or discount on table of 10.

Johnstone Saturday 21 November in Houstoun Sq This is a free event.

Join us in the centre of Johnstone for an afternoon of festive family fun before the town’s Christmas lights are switched on.

Renfrew

Expect an afternoon of live entertainment on the main stage in Houstoun Square, before the big switch-on at the end of the day.

Saturday 28 November at Renfrew Town Hall and town centre.

This is a free event.

Renfrew gets the chance to enjoy the seasonal spotlight when the town’s Christmas Lights are switched on.

The annual 5k fun run saw more than 5500 people take to the streets in a Santa suit and beard - all in the name of charity.

Expect a full afternoon of family fun in and around the town hall, with a fireworks finale to mark the big switch-on.

Paisley Saturday 14th November 12pm - 6pm Paisley Town Centre.

This is a free event.

The afternoon-long festive funfest will take place from noon until 6pm, with reigning X Factor champion Ben Haenow headlining the main stage in Gauze Street, before switching on the town’s lights.

He will be joined on the main stage by children’s favourites Funbox (formerly The Singing Kettle) and by Clyde 1 DJs, with a funfair and lots of other entertainment around the town.

Bridge of Weir Thursday 3rd December Bridge of Weir Village Centre

Linwood

Saturday the 28th November 3.30pm Clippens Road Roundabout Our annual Christmas Light switch on is back!

Come along and enjoy a day of festive family fun starting off at 3.30pm with Santa’s parade, followed by entertainment from local talent before the big switch-on at 6.30pm.

Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch on takes place on Sunday 15 November at George Square.

Please note this is a ticketed event and there are no tickets left for this event!

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The Santa Dash has raised more than £100,000 for various charities since it ‘hit the streets’ in 2006 and is now a firm favourite in the city’s events calendar.

This year, the Glasgow Santa Dash will be on Sunday 6th December at George Square, Glasgow at 9.30am.

The 2015 nominated charity is: Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow.

Register online and print off a sponsor form for Santa Dash 2015 at http:// www.glasgow.gov.uk/santadash

Christmas Fayre In aid of the charity ‘Bloodwise’ on Saturday November 28th from 11am - 2pm in The Couper Institute, 84 Clarkston Road, Glasgow, G44 3DA. All welcome.

Are you or your friends planning your Christmas night out? Are your work looking for some festive fun whilst supporting Alzheimer Scotland?

Whether you are a Dementia Friend or looking to have Fun Fundraising why not join us for an evening of entertainment that includes live music from ‘The Collective’, dance from ‘Dance with Suraya’, a drinks reception, 3 course meal, Christmas shopping market, Instant photo booth ‘The LED CUBE’, Festive Fun & Games all compered by Actor and Musician ‘Tom Urie’!

Email: boriordan@alzscot.org further information.

for

Friday 6 Nov at 9.30am Amaretto Ristorante & Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir Weir Networking is a Business Networking Group for local businesses to get together and make contact. To date we have enjoyed very interesting talks from business people such as Tom Kennett of Tom Kennett Watches, M a u r e e n Horton of Travel a la Carte and award winning Journalist and BAFTA winner Sam Poling. Come along and join us for breakfast and a chat. All businesses welcome. Just £5 per person.

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November

events Sat 31 October

Sat 31 October

Saks & Hart Christmas Launch

Bogles and Spooky Crafts

Dalgarven Mill, Kilwinning, KA13 6PL Browse, shop and enjoy a glass of something bubbly! See our main advert on page 8.

Until Sat 31 October Make A Will Fortnight

Kingsley Wood, Solicitors in Bridge of Weir & Kilmacolm

Kingsley Wood offer the community a chance to have a simple Will drawn up free of charge. See main article in ‘Business’ section of this issue.

LEAP’s Big Energy Saving Week Nationwide

Sign up for the Green Homes Tour and other events this week. For details call 01505 842530, visit www.myleapproject.org or like us on Facebook

Fri 30 October Fright Night @ RSPB

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 1pm to 3pm

Make your very own traditional Scottish Bogle and other creepy crafts to take home in preparation for Halloween Night. Cost £5 per child, Adult helpers Free. More info from 01475 529 543 booking essential.

Mon 2 - Sun 8 Nov

Fri 6 November

Swan Chat

Furniture Barn Christmas Preview

Weir Networking Group

Castle Semple Sailing Club 2pm to 3pm There’s more to our swans than eating bread and chips by the lochshore…..drop in at anytime to find out more! Tel 01505 842 882 Ex 20.

Hessilhead Visit

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 3pm Free Entry

Tours every 20min hour, starting 6:20pm & last tour leaving at 8:20pm. Booking essential, as space is limited. Cost: £5 (RSPB members £3).

Tel. 01505 842 663.

Sat 31 October One World Celebration

Royal British Legion, Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 10.30am to 2pm

Browse and buy from a range of fairly traded and ethical goods, including Rainbow Turtle, Olive Tree and Phantasanja. Learn more about LEAP and support Brighter Bridge of Weir. Enjoy a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee and homebaking or a bowl of delicious soup.

Tue 3 November

Sat 31 Oct - Sun 1 Nov RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

Come and peruse a range of telescopes and binoculars. Cost: FREE. For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk or tel. 01505 842 663.

A Sketch, a Sandwich & a Swally Carrick Centre, Main St, Houston 7pm

Performing a one-act play “A Wake For Donald” by local writer Evelyn Hood. Tickets £10 including a wrap and drink available from Bobbins or Bill Walker 01505 612262.

Early Bird Xmas Gift & Craft Fair There will be a variety of stalls to suit every need; from local artists, beaded and silver jewellery, knitted gifts, cushions, cakes and much more.

Entry includes Tea and Coffee: Adults £1.50 Children £0.50

Local business networking group. All businesses welcome. Come for breakfast. £5.

RSPB Local Group

MND Scotland Xmas Card Sale

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12.30pm

There will be an illustrated talk entitled Shotguns and Short-toed Eagles - Birding in Malta by Ian Thompson. All welcome.

Sale of MND (motor neurone disease) Christmas Cards. Come along and buy your cards whilst raising money for a worth while cause.

RAMH - Mental Health – Getting Better

Wed 4 November Glasgow Green Fireworks

Sun 1 November

Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 1pm to 4pm

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Contact Lorna for further information on 01505 842527 or 07767 498433. www. furniturebarnscotland.co.uk

Come and learn about the wonderful work done by the local Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital. Meet some of their patients and hear about the different things the staff deal with. Tel. 01505 842 663.

Binocular & Telescope Open Day Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 6.15pm to 9pm

Furniture Barn, Midgavin, Howwood

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

Glasgow Green, Greendyke St, Glasgow

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close 7.30pm

This year’s festival is based around the theme of passion and includes people from disadvantaged and marginalised groups. Tickets are £5/3 and can be purchased on the door. For more information about the Scottish Mental Health Arts & Film Festival visit mhfestival.com

Fri 6 - Sun 8 Nov

From 4pm. The free fireworks display is on from 7.30pm. The event closes at 9pm. .

BBC Good Food Show Scotland

Thu 5 November

Fri & Sat: 10am - 6pm - Sun: 10am - 5.30pm First class entertainment from stars including Tom Kitchin, Mary Berry and James Martin, fine food and drink, dozens of stalls, great shopping, and plenty of inspiration. Visit www.secc.co.uk

OUTLOOK - Creation of a Rock Choir

SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm 2pm We look forward to welcoming Jennifer Sim, leader of the Kilmacolm Rock Choir. Maybe a few members of the choir will come along too! Plus afternoon tea, chat, and community issues for discussion. Everyone welcome.

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november 2015

Sat 7 November

Sat 7 November

Sun 8 November

Wed 11 November

Knapps Bonfire & Fireworks

Sale Of Art And Crafts

Remembrance Sunday

Community Tea Dance

Donate now or find out about other ways to contribute at the website - www.britishlegion. org.uk

With music by ‘The Ragtime Dolls’. Tickets only £2. Tel: 01505 614350.

Knapps Loch - Kilmacolm From 4.30pm Courtesy of Lord Maclay and Robert Baxter.

Catering by Duchal, St Columba & Kidston Nurseries. Bonfire lit 6pm followed by fireworks.

Paisley Fireworks Spectacular

Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley 12pm to 6pm

Expect a full afternoon of family entertainment on the main stage leading up to the spectacular fireworks finale at the end of the day. FREE

Bishopton Fireworks Display

ROF Car Park, Station Rd, Bishopton 7pm

A community event for the people of our community. £2 per person, under 5’s free. Food and drinks will be available.

The ‘Fall Ball’ Ceilidh

McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch 8pm to 12.30am Entertainment by the White Cart Ceilidh Band.

Tickets £8.50. Tickets from Calder Gallery & Cafe Cucina Minucci, The Junction, Lochwinnoch.

Pre Christmas Craft Fair

Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 11am to 2pm Free Entry

This is a great opportunity to buy original art works and hand made crafts for a bargain price. Come along early and find the perfect gift for Christmas, birthday or a treat for yourself.

Green Woodworking

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 3pm

Turn and work wood like they did in the days of the Sempills in the ancestral clan home. Drop in or stay and make something to take home! For more info call 01505 842 882 Ex 20 booking essential

Wildlife Explorers Event Swan Ringing

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

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Mon 9 November St Mary’s Concert

St Mary’s Church, Johnstone Rd, Bridge of Weir 7.30pm

Concert given by the Russian Choir Voskresenije.

They will sing a varied programme of sacred music and Russian folk songs. Tickets £10 including wine, soft drinks and savouries. The Car Park is opposite the Church.

Mon 9 - Fri 13 Nov St Columba Open Week

Booking essential. Cost: £3 / £2 RSPB members (adults go free). For further information and booking, contact the reserve: Email: lochwinnoch@ rspb.org.uk or call 01505 842 663.

Coffee Morning and Xmas Fayre Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 9.45am to 11.45am

By Kilmacolm Friends of Ardgowan Hospice. Home baking, cards and gift stalls.

Friends of Ardardan Day

McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch 12pm to 4pm Lochwinnoch Arts Festival Outreach event.

Free tea and coffee. Knitting, sewing, jewellery, pottery, handmade felt, flowers, pictures, prints, glassware, crystals, wood, gifts and more.

Nationwide

Ardardan Estate, Cardross, Dumbarton 10% off purchases & orders placed on the day for Friends of Ardardan Cardholders. See main advert on page 23.

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Sommerville Weir Hall, Quarriers Faith Avenue Quarriers Village 10am to 4pm

Planning For The Future Legal Advice Event

Howwood Village Hall, Johnstone, PA9 1BB 7pm to 8.30pm

Kingsley Wood & Co are continuing their series of free presentations dealing with subjects such as Protecting your Assets, Powers of Attorney and Wills these short seminars are packed with useful information on these key areas.

Fri 13 November Kilbarchan Lantern Parade

Kilbarchan Community Nursery, Meadside Avenue, Kilbarchan 6.30pm

Join us for a magical walk in the village, lit by the children’s homemade lanterns. Family tickets are £5 and include hot chocolate, soup and sweet treats. Lanterns can be purchased on the night.

St Columba’s School, Duchal Rd, Kilmacolm

Children in Need Appeal Night

Tue 10 November

There are lots of ways to raise money for this great cause, including dressing up as your childhood hero. Visit the website to see how to donate - www. bbcchildreninneed.co.uk

Ladies’ Evening

Festive Friends Purple Party

An ideal opportunity to see what St Columba’s has to offer, although taster sessions can be arranged throughout the school year. To find out more and reserve your space go to st-columbas.org or call 01505 872238.

East Church, Church St, Kilbarchan 7.30pm

Caroline from the Twisted Willow florists will give a demonstration of Christmas arrangements and also bring along a selection of gifts. Alongside will be Christmas cards and gifts from the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice shop. Donation tickets are £3, including refreshments and home-baking.

Normandy Hotel, Renfrew 7pm

Supporting Alzheimer Scotland? £35 per ticket, discount for 10. Email: boriordan@alzscot.org for further information.

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Sat 14 November

from Mon 16 Nov

Sat 21 November

Thu 26 - Sat 28 Nov

Quarriers Christmas Fayre

Pre-Christmas Painting Sale

Calder Church Christmas Fayre

KDS - Mother Goose

Stalls include- Home baking, arts and crafts, jewellery, toys, lucky dip, gifts, cards & wrap and lots more. Adults £2, Children free, incl tea/coffee and Christmas goodies.

Tickets available from the Cross Cafe, Kilmacolm & Rosie on 01505 873088. Doors 7pm, show at 7.30pm and an matinee on Saturday 28th (doors 2pm, show 2.30pm). Tickets £10 adults and £8 for children under 14.

Bishopton Art Group’s Christmas Art & Craft Fair

Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders

Art & Crafts for sale. Tea, coffee and delicious home baking will be available. Free entry.

Tickets, £8, available from Bobbins or in the hall after each Sunday service. Don’t miss this. You might just die laughing.

Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Rd, Kilmacolm 10am to 2pm

50 stalls over 3 floors! Santas grotto, face painting, kids zone and a selection of festive stalls.

Take a break and have a cuppa in our Pop-up cafe (inc in the ticket price). £2.50 adults, children £1.50, £6 for family ticket (2+2). Call 01505 616054 for more details

Kirk Cafe

Lochwinnoch Parish Church 10am to 12noon

Join us for the/coffee, scones, pancakes and cakes Entry £2.50. Children free

Paisley Xmas Lights Switch On Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley 12pm to 6pm

Expect a full day of festive family fun in the town centre - starting off at noon with the traditional Santa parade and followed by a full day of bigname entertainment on the main stage before the big switch-on at 6pm.

The Rucksack Project

Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley 12pm to 5pm

Will you consider filling a rucksack with basic essentials: e.g., hat and gloves, jacket, sleeping bag and thermos flask, which can then be distributed to people sleeping rough in the area?

Email: susan.niven@ntlworld.com, or message via Facebook.

Sun 15 November Habbie Tat

Performing Arts Centre, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan 12noon to 4pm

Come along and see what collectables you can find. We will be serving teas, coffee and home baking. Tel: 01505 706346 to book a stall.

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir There is going to be a selection of original paintings and prints from only £10, you could give an ‘original’ gift this Xmas.

Wed 18 November Kilmacolm Horticultural Soc AGM Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Rd, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Following the business meeting and light refreshments, a film of the Chelsea Flower Show 2015 will be shown. Please come to hear more about us or phone Jill Russell on 01505 872393 for membership.

Thu 19 November GSC’s Christmas Fayre

Good Shepherd Centre Greenock Road, Bishopton PA7 5PW 11am to 2pm

The stalls are made up from all the effort and hard work of our young people, staff, high schools in our local area and local community! The Stalls will range from: Festive Gifts, Bake Sale, Arts & Crafts, Food Stall, Reiki and even more!!

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

Christmas At Wild Rose

Wild Rose Florists, Ardgowan Place, Kilmacolm - All day

Join us for fizz and mince pies. Pre-order selected wreaths and table decorations for Christmas and receive a 10% discount.

Sun 22 Nov - Sat 19 Dec 103rd Annual Exhibition & Sale

by Paisley Artists

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm 2pm

We will hear from Robert Jaconelli, an advanced driving instructor, with stories and advice on today’s modern motoring methods. Maybe a few members of the choir will come along too! Plus afternoon tea, chat, and community issues for discussion. Everyone welcome.

Fri 20 November Stargazing Evening

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

Look out for satellites, constellations and other phenomena at Renfrewshire’s darkest sky! Please note this is the last event of the year, rescheduled from December. For more info call 01505 842 882 Ex 20 booking essential

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 8pm to 9.30pm The speakers will be from the Astronomical Society of Glasgow. Please book, as places are limited and due to the popularity of this event.

Cost: Adults £5 (RSPB members £3); Children £3 (RSPB members £2). Email: lochwinnoch@rspb. org.uk or call 01505 842 663.

Sat 21 November

Opening Hours Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 4pm, Sunday 2pm - 5pm, Closed Mondays. Free admission. www.paisleyartists.com

Mon 23 November

SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow Get tickets today from www.secc.co.uk

Sat 28 November Christmas Fayre

The Couper Institute, 84 Clarkston Road, Glasgow, G44 3DA 11am to 2pm

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 2pm to 3pm

There’s more to our swans than eating bread and chips by the lochshore… Come along to Swan Chat to find out more! For more info call 01505 842 882 Ex 20

Call the Salon on 01505 873636 for a ticket. See main advert on page 42 of this issue.

Tue 24 November Planning For The Future Legal Advice Event

McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch 7pm to 8.30pm

Kingsley Wood & Co are continuing their series of free presentations dealing with subjects such as Protecting your Assets, Powers of Attorney and Wills these short seminars are packed with useful information on these key areas.

Thu 26 November Bernie’s Cafe/Deli Grand Launch

Christmas Fayre

Expect an afternoon of live entertainment on the main stage in Houstoun Square, before the big switch-on at the end of the day.

Girls’ Day Out

Kilmacolm Community Centre

“Hilarious, Go if you want a belly laugh”. www. fairpley.com. Tickets from www.houstonmacb. eventbrite.com. £13.50

Johnstone Town Centre

Fri 27 - Sun 29 Nov

Decorus Beauty Evening

Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

Johnstone Xmas Lights Switch On

Kilbarchan East Church, Church St, Kilbarchan 7.30pm

Swan Chat Paisley Museum

MacBraveheart by FairPley

Carrick Centre, Main St, Houston 7.30pm

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

In aid of the charity ‘Bloodwise’ All welcome.

OUTLOOK - Driving Awareness Day

Astronomy Evening

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McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

See main advert on page 41 of this issue.

Gryffe High School, Houston 6.30-9pm See main advert on page 55 of this issue.

Gibb Stuart Late Night Shopping Kilmacolm & Bridge of Weir, open till 8pm - Special Discounts!

See main advert on page 23 of this issue.

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Sat 28 November Renfrew Xmas Lights Switch On Renfrew Town Hall, Hairst St, Renfrew Expect a full afternoon of family fun in and around the town hall, with a fireworks finale to mark the big switch-on.

Linwood Xmas Lights Switch-On

Clippens Road Roundabout, Linwood From 3.30pm Santa’s Parade, followed by entertainment from local talent before the big switch on at 6.30pm

Houston & Killellan Guild Victorian Xmas Market Houston & Killellan Kirk, Main St, Houston 10.30am to 1pm

There will be a wide variety of stalls. Tickets cost £2 adult and £1 for children to include tea/coffee and mincemeat pie. Hot rolls will also be on sale, come along and enjoy the Festive fun. Tickets available from guild members or you can pay at the door.

Birds for Beginners

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 1.30pm Please book, as places are limited. Cost: Adults £5 (RSPB members £3); Children £3 (RSPB members £2). For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org. uk or call 01505 842 663.

Abbey Nursery Christmas Fayre

Abbey Nursery, South Street, Houston 10am-12.20pm Lots of wonderful festive stalls, great baking, a Christmas Grotto and lots of children’s activities.

Sat 28 - Sun 29 November Binocular & Telescope Open Day

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm Cost: FREE. For further information and booking, please contact the reserve: Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk or call 01505 842 663.

Sat 28 Nov - Sat 5 Dec Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group Cinderella Johnstone Town Hall 7pm

Evening shows, doors open 7pm, curtain up 7.30pm. Saturday matinees, doors open 1.30pm, curtain up 2pm. Tickets: 07748 827 727. Ad £13, Conc £10, Family £40

Sun 29 November Bird Ringing Demonstration

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Calder Glen Road, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 3pm

The mist nests will be out to adorn any passing birds with some leg jewellery! Also known as ID rings to help track their movements. For more info call 01505 842 882 Ex 20

Bishopton Sports & Social Club Xmas Event Bishopton Sports Club, Holmpark, 2pm to 5pm

Books, confectionery, perfume, jewellery, tartan goods, cards etc.

Entry £2 incl tea/coffee & cake.

Thu 3 December Wreath Making Class

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 10am to 2pm Make your own wreath in time for Xmas. Made from moss, holly & yew from the estate. £12 includes materials. Pre booking essential.

Call 01475 540505.

Bridge of Weir Christmas Lights Switch On Bridge of Weir Village Centre Watch this space in the December issue for further details.

Gibb Stuart Late Night Shopping

Kilmacolm & Bridge of Weir, open till 8pm Special Discounts! See main advert on page 23 of this issue.

Fri 4 December Cheese & Wine Evening

Ardardan Estate - Cardross, Dumbarton, G82 5HD www.ardardan.co.uk Tel: 01389 849188 for further information.

See main advert on page 23 of this issue.

Sat 5 December Food Festival

Ardardan Estate - Cardross, Dumbarton, G82 5HD www.ardardan.co.uk. Tel: 01389 849188 for further details.

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every Monday

3rd Friday monthly

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

Hearing Aid Clinic

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1-2pm

This event will not take place on public holidays.

every Tuesday Line Dancing Bishopton Primary School 6.30pm - 8.30pm

Beginner/Improver class with all welcome. Call Mellissa on 07970 396212.

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

Knitters of all levels welcome!

every Thursday

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

2nd Saturday monthly

last Saturday monthly Table Top Sale Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Ave 11am1pm

1st Sunday monthly

Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

Wednesday 4th November

Saturday 7th November

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

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm 3.30pm

Weekly Volunteer Group

Knapps Loch Kilmacolm.

St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm 10am-2pm

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

every Saturday

Glasgow Green

‘Brunch & Browse’

Weekly Volunteer Group Conservation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Messy Church Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 4pm-6pm

Free entry for all ages. Meal included. Just turn up. Tel: Catherine 07980 649377.

regular updates @GryffeAds

every Sunday

Remember remember.... that Glasgow Fireworks returns to Glasgow Green on Wednesday 4th November. As usual, the event is free and open to all.

Spectators are welcome on to the Green from 4pm, where they can buy a range of food and drink, and browse merchandise stalls.

They can also enjoy a funfair from 4.30pm.

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 10am - 12noon

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

Paisley Town Centre

The event closes at 9pm.

Saturday 7th November

1st Saturday

‘Outlook’

Please come and join us for our annual fireworks display.

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm

A community event for the people of our community. £2 per person, under 5’s free.

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

10am-2pm (“The Square”)

1st & 3rd Sunday

2nd Wednesday monthly

Loch Lomond Shores

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

2nd Thur & last Sat

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

Paisley Cross

2nd Thursday monthly Solas Bereavement Support Group The group meets in the Kidston Hall. 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Everyone welcome.

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From 12noon - Free Event

Saturday 7th November, 7pm

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

If you can help please contact Peter Kellock on 01505 872190 or Lawrie Campbell on 01505 873535.

The free fireworks display is on from 7.30pm.

ROF Car Park, Station Road, Bishopton

Weekly Volunteer Group

A fun-filled evening of excitement for all the family. Gates open 4.30pm. Bonfire lit at 6pm followed

by Fireworks Display. Entry cost £2 per head. Remember to leave plenty of time to walk out to the field as on-street parking nearby is limited. The event goes ahead whatever the weather! As this is a voluntary event, any assistance in building the bonfire or helping on the evening would be much appreciated.

10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

Food and drinks will be available.

Expect a full afternoon of family entertainment on the main stage leading up to the spectacular fireworks finale at the end of the day. See advert on page 10 of this issue.

10am-2pm Tel: 01655 770217

3rd Saturday Erskine Garden Centre

10am - 2pm Tel: 0141 814 4626

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Treat Your Floor For Christmas Winter is a time for relaxing in the comfort of your home with family and friends and Karndean is the perfect flooring choice for inviting households.

With classic designs in wood, slate or stone effect you can relax knowing that you have a stunning floor covering that is also: • Hardwearing • Waterproof • Easily maintained Karndean adjusts to temperature and will be warm underfoot in winter. It does not require under floor heating, unlike ceramic tiles which can be cold underfoot.

Many of the Karndean ranges come with over 10-year guarantees and won’t scratch and chip like slate, or fade like hardwood flooring. Unlike carpets they do not harbour bacteria and soak up stains.

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We have over 15 years’ experience in Karndean and provide a professional fitting service.

We specialise in Karndean flooring and that means we do it well. All you need to do is sit back with your ideal winter drink and admire your stylish new floor.

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

Mirin Completed Her Sponsored Cycle Mirin recently learned to ride her bike and asked her dad if there was anyway riding that a bike could raise money which she could use to help her great gran, who has dementia.

She decided to ride “really far” along the Howwood - Lochwinnoch cycle path (2.5mi / 4.0km) and get people to sponsor her. Although it was a very cold and foggy morning as she was waved off, and even though her hands were frozen (cos daddy forgot the gloves!) Mirin managed to cycle the whole way, meeting up with family and friends at the loch cafe for hot drinks.

Mirin managed to raise in excess of a massive £350 for Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia.

Well done Mirin.

Paisley Abbey Recitals 12.30pm in Paisley Abbey Saturday 21 November - Nina Koppard (Soprano) with Mark Wilson (Violin) Saturday 19 December - Abbey Brass with John Wallace Programme of Christmas Music Tickets £5 at the door.

Paisley Abbey Church – Registered Charity No. SC007633

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Paisley Entertainment Aladdin Trouble Wednesday 4 - Saturday 7 November, 7.30pm (2.30pm on Sat 7 Nov)

Mairearad Green & Anna Massie Part of Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk and Roots Festival 2015. Accordionist Mairearad Green is joined by multiinstrumentalist Anna Massie for a night of foot-tapping.

Sunday 1 Nov, 7.30pm - £12.50 to £15.

Dominic Kirwan and Mary Duff - Together in Concert A fabulous occasion, sure to be a hit, not only with their loyal fans but with lovers of music everywhere. So come and join Dominic and Mary for a night you won’t forget! – Book Now! Thursday 5 Nov, 7.30pm - £21.

Skerryvore/Fred Morrison Skerryvore are 7 strong band of musicians who join the traditional instrumentation of accordion, fiddle, pipes and whistles with solid bass, drums and keyboards, overlain with exacting guitar and meaningful lyrics to give their unique sound.

Friday 6 Nov, 7.30pm - £12.50 to £15.

Paisley Arts Centre £10 (£8 conc) + booking fee*

A tale about good vs evil; magical lamps, three wishes, witty banter and of course, love conquering all. Come along and laugh and cheer at this rip roaring musical.

Mad4Musicals Thursday 12 November, 7.30pm Paisley Town Hall £14 (£12 conc) + booking fee* Suitable for ages 12+

Bringing the sights and sounds of the West End and Broadway stage to you with the classic and contemporary hits from the world of the movies and musicals including Evita, Cats, Mamma Mia! and more recent shows such as Wicked, The Bodyguard, Ghost plus many more.

Sleeping Beauty Thursday 26 November - Thursday 31 December Paisley Arts Centre Prices from £9.50 - £19

A whole host of hilarious characters, fantastic original music, and the liveliest, most energetic chorus of young actors - this is one night out that none of the family will want to miss.

The Springsteen Sessions To the ‘True Springsteen Fan’ this will be journey that they’ll never want to end. So sit back and enjoy the pure sounds of Bruce Springsteen and the legendary E Street band via The Springsteen Sessions.

Saturday 7 Nov, 7.30pm - £15.

Fiddler’s Rally Clyde Coast Strathspey & Reel Society, with members from Inverclyde and North Ayrshire, has been delighting audiences for over 20 years.

Sunday 8 Nov, 7.30pm - £8 to £10.

Sister Act Trying to work her way to the top in 1970s Philadelphia, Deloris falls in love with a very tough gangster named Curtis, and when Deloris witnesses him commit a murder she ends up in hiding on police orders in a convent whose parish has fallen on hard times.

Wed 11 Nov - Sat 14 Nov, 7.30pm every evening & 2.30pm on the Sat. £13 to £18.

Oliver Twist Fagin, Nancy, Bill Sikes, and the Artful Dodger - inhabit a world filled with images of danger and fear, innocence and hope; a world seen through the eyes of an astonished child.

20 Nov - 21 Nov, nightly 7.30pm & 2.30pm Sat - £8 to £12.

Jack and the Beanstalk Will Jack make it up the beanstalk?

Will Dame Dot stop greetin’ about losing her coo?

And just how big is this Giant?

Find out in Greenock Players’ production of “Jack and the Beanstalk” – it’s gonnae be a Christmas Cracker!

Friday 27 Nov - Saturday 5 Dec, nightly at 7.30pm & 2.30pm on the Sat £8.75 to £10.

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

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

Dental Blog

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice Your dentist might not be the first place you think of when it comes to Christmas but if you want to look your best for the festive period or are looking for a gift that is a little bit different then you might be pleasantly surprised.

Most modern dentists offer teeth whitening services and you will find a wide range of prices on offer depending on the system. We have certainly found teeth whitening is becoming a much more popular gift for partners to buy for one another – especially in the lead up to a wedding. If you are buying teeth whitening as a gift it is important to bear in mind that each course is subject to an initial (usually free) consultation to ensure the treatment is suitable for the individual.

Non-surgical facelifts, facial peels and Botox are also becoming an increasingly popular beauty treatments and, because of their specialist medical skills and training, many dentists now offer a range of aesthetic services. The most common are anti-wrinkle injections and facial rejuvenation services such as facial abrasion. Again, a consultation will be needed prior to any treatment.

If you are looking for ideas for smaller gifts and stocking fillers at Christmas then the latest electric toothbrushes are always a firm favourite. At Kilbarchan Dental Practice we offer gift vouchers which are an ideal last minute gift perfect for our air polishing service at just £30.

Dentists get very busy in the lead up to Christmas and opening times are restricted so don’t leave it until the last minute to book an appointment.

For more information and advice call Kilbarchan Dental Practice on 01505 704969 or click www. kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips.

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Santa Sleigh Routes 2015 HOUSTON 1st - 7th DECEMBER Tuesday 1st: South Mound, Glenartney, St Fillans Dr, Manse Cres, Hagart Rd, Spiers Rd, Glebe Gdns, Four Windings, South St, North St, Fleming Road, Burnlea Cres, Houstonfield Quad, Houstonfield Rd, Kirk Rd, Kilmacolm Rd, Fields Lane, Cricketfield Lane, Old School House Lane, Barochan Rd. Wednesday 2nd: Crosslee Cres, Leeburn Ave, Craigholme Woodside, The Beeches, Birch Grove, Riverside, Broomfield, The Meadows, Brackendene, Crossways, Neuk Cres, Neuk Ave. Thursday 3rd: Crosslee Park, Dunnet Dr, Whirlie Rd, Back o’Hill, Strawberry Fields, Whirlie Dr, Pine Grove, Mill Brae, Crosslee Gardens, Brierie Hills Court and Road, Brierie Lane and Gdns, Goldenlee View, Brierie Hill Grove, Earlsgate, Brierie Ave. Friday 4th: Leman Dr and Grove, Alwyn Ave, Bream Place, Viking Cres, Cormorant Ave, Forties Rd, Claymore Dr, Piper Rd and Ave, Ninian Ave, Brent Cres, Murchison Rd, Hutton Ave, Hewett Cres, Dunlin Cres, Berl Ave. Saturday 5th: Locher Cres + Gdns + Ave +Way + Gait, Gryffebank Ave, Gryffewood Cres and Way, Gryffebank Close + Way + Close, Cunningham Gdns, Crawford Rd. Monday 7th: Netherburn Ave and Gdns, Craigburn Ave and Place, Locherburn Place + Ave + Grove, Craigburn Cres, Woodburn Place, Hillside, Hillfoot, Fulton Gdns, Beatrice Gdns..

BRIDGE OF WEIR 11th - 16th DECEMBER Friday 11th: Torr Rd, Horsewood Rd, Fetlar Rd, Kennbank Cres, Kennbank Rd, Thriplee Rd, Lomond Cres, Barrcraig Rd, Carruth Rd, Lawmarnock Rd and Cres, Glen Brae, Troon Dr, Glendentan Rd, Turnberry Dr, Barassie Dr. Sunday 13th: Elm Rd, Loch Rd and Place, Mill O’Gryffe Rd, Mimosa Rd, Lintwhite Court and Cres, Moss Rd, Broom Place, Gryffe Gate, Gorse Cres, St Machars Rd, Hillview Rd, Church Rd. Monday 14th: Clevans Rd, Donaldfield Rd, Thornwood Dr, Southbrae Ave, Rosemount Lane, St Andrews Dr, Dalmahoy Cres, Belleisle Cres, Sunningdale Dr, Prieston Rd, Gryffe Rd, Kilbarchan Rd. Tuesday 15th: Eldin Place, Hazelwood Rd, The Grove, Shillingworth Place, Earl Place, Ranfurly Rd, Bonar Cres, Watt Lane, Montrose Terr, Kilgraston Rd, Watt Rd, Ranfurly Place, Bankhead Rd, Kilbarchan Rd. Wednesday 16th: Glengowan Rd, Strathgryffe Cres, Kilmacolm Rd, Kilallan Ave, Woodside Ave, Warlock Rd, Beech Ave, Castle Rd, Park Rd, Southview Cres, Freeland Dr, Warlock Dr, Houston Rd.

Brookfield Tuesday 8th D

ecember

rth) Kilmacolm (No December Wednesday 9th Kilmacolm (S outh) Thursday 10th December

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Quarriers Saturday 12th December

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20 Years of Rotary in Gryffe Valley In September 1995, 24 local worthies sat down in the (sadly now defunct) Gryffe Arms Hotel at Bridge of Weir and formed the Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley. With inspiration from founder President Stan Moore, and with guidance from the Rotary Club of Greenock acting as “mother club”, they set out on a path of fellowship meetings, fund raising activities and projects in support of communities. Twenty years later, the club is thriving: it has some 40 members, it has raised over £200,000, and it has completed over 300 projects in support of good causes.

To celebrate its 20-year milestone, Gryffe Valley held a special Charter Dinner at the River Inn, Houston. Almost 100 were in attendance with members and their partners (including 11 of the original founding members), some past members (including a founding member and others who had moved away but carried on in Rotary elsewhere), plus Rotary representatives from the Greenock and Glasgow clubs and from the West of Scotland District. They were welcomed by President David Fairbairn, who outlined some of the work that the club had undertaken over the years, not only in support of the local community but communities around the world. He paid tribute to the efforts of members, past and present, their wives and friends, local businesses and others who had contributed in various ways to the fundraising events and to the club’s project work over the years. David made particular mention of the contribution made

by Stan Moore and he announced that, in recognition of this, the club had decided to make Stan a life member – to mark the honour he had been presented with a special scroll.

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NEVER MISS

After a first class meal, the company A THING! was privileged to be entertained We keep an archive of all with an address from Len Murray. the featured blogs at Len was making his second visit of advertizer.co.uk/blog the year, having also spoken at the Club’s Burns Supper in January, and once again he reduced his audience to tears – of laughter!

Scurrilous tales from his career in the courtroom were delivered in his usual laconic style – with more than a hint of the Rev I M Jolly at times!

He congratulated the club on its achievements over the 20 years and on organising such a splendid celebration event.

No Rotary event would be complete without a wee raffle, and this celebration was no exception! Three splendid prizes had been donated

by Jason Andrews of the River Inn, by corporate members W H Malcolm Ltd and by absent member Dan Mungin (unavoidably detained whilst cruising on the high seas!). Thanks to their generosity, and that of all those who attended, a sum of over £600 was raised which will go towards the Therapeutic Resource Library at Corseford school, the Club’s major project for this year.

The evening also featured contributions from member Ron Aitchison who gave special thanks to Len Murray, from District governor Andy Lees who made mention of Rotary’s (hopefully) final push for the eradication of polio, from Immediate Past President Angus Matheson who toasted all the visiting Rotarians and guests, and from past member Richard Lees (now a member of the Hunterston club and a past District Governor) who mentioned some of Gryffe Valley’s successes over the years including the Millenium event at Houston House which raised £15,000 for local hospices. The event was rounded off by Past President Bob Ross who thanked all those who had helped to make evening such a great success. He also made wistful mention of the apparent lack of a “father club” for Gryffe Valley!

‘fair use’ policy download limit, there could be a call for fibre, running at around 35Mbps locally.

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom Fibre to cabinet ‘Superfast’ broadband has quite recently been made available in many areas covered by this magazine although the snail’s pace of the rollout has been bafflingly slow. Furthermore, where the fibre enabled connections have become available the ISPs have not exactly been shouting from the rooftops around Renfrewshire. If you are interested in quicker downloads and media streaming it is worth looking into it.

I often get asked about the effect broadband speed has on a PC; the broadband speed does not dictate the speed of the computer. If you find your PC takes a while to load up – paying for fibre will not improve that nor will it improve the performance of your wireless connection. Whether you put rump or fillet through a mincer, it’s still mince in the end.

Go to www.superfast-openreach.co.uk to find out if you are the smug or damned.

If you are considering the upgrade then it might be worthwhile revisiting your internet requirement first of all as the packages the ISPs are offering are around a tenner a month more than broadband mk1.

For example, if you have an internet connection speed of say 5 Mbps, and you are using the internet to check email and internet shop on a couple of computers, the chances are that you will not see any great improvement if you take the upgrade. That said, I have seen major improvement for folk at the end of the line struggling by with sub 1 Mbps speeds. For those multi user families or tech savvies that like to punish iPlayer, YouTube or their

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Financial Blog

by Carl Melvin,

Affluent Financial Planning Ltd

Already retired? Boost your State Pension New rules to help retirees buy a bigger State pension have been introduced. Men born before 6/4/1951 and Women born before 6/4/1953 qualify for this new arrangement. This option is available until April 5th 2017.

You can buy up to £25 a week extra state pension with cost based on age and how much you buy. By paying “class 3A voluntary national insurance contributions” you can obtain inflation proofed guaranteed lifetime income with death benefits for your spouse or civil partner of up to 50% of your pension. You can buy extra pension in stages, buying say an extra £5 now and another sum later – as long as the total does not exceed £25 per week.

Is it worth it?

Pension experts agree that it offers good value for money compared to buying an annuity. It is attractive to those who were not able to build up additional state pension, such as the low paid and self-employed. The price for men and women is the same. The extra pension is taxable and will appeal more to non-taxpayers and basic rate taxpayers. For a couple with different tax rates, buy the extra pension for the one with the lower tax rate.

Much will depend on how long you live and if you are in poor health or have lower life expectancy, this will be less appealing. If you are on benefits or live overseas, you may be adversely affected.

You can get more information at www.gov.uk/statepensiontopup or call 0345 600 4270.

Call Affluent FP on 0871 702 9490 or pop into the Affluent office opposite Amaretto restaurant on Main Street, Bridge of Weir. www.affluentfp.co.uk to arrange your FREE financial review.

6 Must Do’s - Planning for the Future Kingsley Wood & Co are continuing their series of free presentations on “6 Must Do’s - Planning for the Future” and will host events throughout West Renfrewshire over the coming months.

Dealing with subjects such as Protecting your Assets, Powers of Attorney and Wills these short seminars are packed with useful information on these key areas. Aimed in particular at the “Older Person” they address matters which are important to family and individual alike.

The next presentation is set for Wednesday 11 November in the Howwood Village Hall, Johnstone PA9 1BB from 7pm–8.30pm, followed by Tuesday 24 November at The Mckillop Institute, Main Street, Lochwinnoch from 7pm– 8.30pm. All are welcome to attend.

Spaces may be limited so for a place at any of these presentations please contact Annemarie at Kingsley Wood & Co on 01505 874114 or email: agillen@kingsleywood.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 11 NOVEMBER Howwood Village Hall, Johnstone, PA9 1BB 7pm – 8.30pm

TUESDAY 24 NOVEMBER McKillop Institute, Main St, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4AJ (Bar Lounge) 7pm – 8.30pm

Kingsley Wood & Co, Solicitors & Notaries, Burnside Chambers, Kilmacolm PA13 4ET Tel: 01505 874114 Email: mail@kingsleywood.co.uk Web: www. kingsleywood.co.uk

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LOCAL

history

Renfrewshire Local History

Kilbarchan - November 1915

Renfrewshire Copper Mines

Thomas Kerr was nineteen years and one month old when he enlisted in Johnstone on 7th September 1914. He had three more years to serve as an apprentice engineer with Louden Brothers. He was five feet five inches (1.65m) tall, weighed nine and a half stones (60.3kg.) and had brown eyes and dark hair.

Over the past 300 years, Renfrewshire had many coal and limestone workings. It also had a number of less common, though more valuable minerals, including copper. Copper occurs in veins among the lavas of the Renfrewshire hills, along with Barytes, which was worked at Muirshiel.

Hundreds of tons of copper were worked, and many more trials (speculative shafts and tunnels) opened up for copper on the fabled ‘Lochwinnoch vein’, which ran north from Lochwinnoch via Kilmacolm to Gourock.

The earliest copper mines were above Gourock from the 1760s, owned by the Stuarts of Castlemilk.

In 1782 this mine was described as being run by a respectable company from England and was doing very well as the copper was of a good quality. When the ore was dug out it was ‘broke into small pieces, washed, then strained and separated using mercury’. At least three workings are shown on a map of 1796. Water was required for power and dressing, but was also a problem when keeping the mines dry. A dam and water powered engine was constructed on the Gourock Burn to pump water out of the mines and to wash and process the ore. The mines declined, but were explored and reopened again several times, including in the 1860s. The occurrence of copper generated further trials in the area. Interest was reignited if the price of copper rose on the world market.

The second copper mining area was above Lochwinnoch. Brian Skillen’s article in RLHF Journal Vol 8 covers numerous copper mines and trials in the Calder valley, and its tributary the Kaim Burn. The lowest successful mine was on the west bank of the Calder just upstream of Bridgend. Its success generated a number of trials upstream towards Little Cloak.

The best known and longest lived workings were at Kaim, where copper was found in the 1830s. Again success was limited, but more productive workings commenced in 1860s with an engine house and chimney stack.

Several hundred tons of ore were produced, but the company was wound up in 1863. However the workings were reopened soon after and further mines and drainage levels driven and worked to 1870. Higher up Calder Glen, various trials were driven from the river valley in the 1860s. Small scale working around Clovenstone failed in 1865. The final workings at Kaim in 1874 went down more than 60 metres, but again were short lived.

When the railway was constructed from Bridge of Weir to Kilmacolm, copper was found in one of the cuttings, but was not rich enough to make working economic.

He joined the 11th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, part of the 15th (Scottish) Division. After training in England he arrived with the division in France on 9th July 1915. He survived the 15th Division’s participation in the Battle of Loos but on 3rd November 1915 he was killed. A friend wrote to his parents, ‘they had gone into the trenches for a twelve day spell, and the Germans kept up a steady fire with their big guns. It was on the second day that a shell landed on Tom’s dug-out, killing him and wounding other two. We buried him the same night and a little wooden cross marks the spot where he lies.’

He is commemorated on panels 125 to 127 on the Loos Memorial-he has no grave. His initial burial place may have been obliterated by shelling, or, when and if his remains were recovered, his fibre identification disc would have disintegrated, and his remains may be in a grave marked ‘Known Unto God’.

In 1911 fifteen years old Thomas had been a laundry van boy and lived with his parents Thomas and Janet, and his two brothers and two sisters and a new nephew, at Gateside Cottage, where his father had a weaving shop.

The family was still there when the news of Thomas’ death arrived.

Johnstone History Society We have our November meeting on the 10th at 7.30pm in the Masonic Hall in Collier Street. Our speaker this month is Alexander Hall his subject being Flanders Fields 1914 this again should prove to be a very interesting. Our last two months talks have been well attended and enjoyed by all. We are pleased to see some new members but would always make visitors and any other new members very welcome.

The Museum is open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30 till 4pm. A new set of old pictures of Johnstone have just been added to television monitor and you can come in and view any time we are open.

Overall, copper was a valuable mineral and attracted ongoing interest in Renfrewshire, especially when the price rose. Old workings were a focal point of interest, as they provided ready access to copper veins, without the expense of building new shafts. However starting a copper mine and its processing plant was capital intensive and unless productivity was high, failure was always likely.

© 2015 Stuart Nisbet Renfrewshire Local History Forum’s next Archaeology Lecture takes place in the Shawl Gallery, Paisley Museum at 7.30.on 12th November. Our speaker on the night is Dugie MacInnes, Director of the Archaeological Field Survey of Glen Lochay undertaken by the ACFA. His talk will cover old townships, shielings and smaller farm settlements in the glen. Visitors are always welcome at our lecture meetings.

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

Many young, elderly and disabled people benefit from shared paths. They provide valuable opportunities to travel in a traffic-free environment, and to relax and unwind.

We all have responsibilities for the safety of others we are sharing space with. It’s important not to startle other people, particularly those who are frail or who have reduced sight, hearing or mobility. The tranquillity of these paths is something people value greatly, and all path users need to respect this.

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

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

Following this code of conduct will ensure that everyone can benefit from shared paths: Give way to pedestrians and wheelchair users; Take care around horse-riders, leaving them plenty of room, especially when approaching from behind; Be courteous and patient with pedestrians and other path users who are moving more slowly than you – shared paths are for sharing, not speeding; Cycle at a sensible speed and do not use the paths for recording times with challenge apps or for fitness training; Slow down when space is limited or if you cannot see clearly ahead; Be particularly careful at junctions, bends, entrances onto the path, or any other ‘blind spots’ where people (including children) could appear in front of you without warning; Keep to your side of any dividing line; Carry a bell and use it, or an audible greeting, to avoid surprising people or horses; However, don’t assume people can see or hear you – remember that many people are hard of hearing or visually impaired; In dull and dark weather make sure you have lights so you can be seen.

Tips for other path users: Keep your dog under control Pick up your dog mess and dispose of properly Kick any horse dung to the side

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Dentist of the Year 2015 Bluewater is an award-winning dental practice in Lochwinnoch and we are now welcoming both NHS and private patients.

2015 has been a very busy year for us here at Bluewater. Firstly, in January our Principal Dentist, Samuel Barry Lemon, and partner Francesca welcomed the arrival of baby Saskia and secondly, in June Barry was named Scottish Dentist of the Year 2015 at the Scottish Dental Awards. Thirdly, we have recently welcomed our new dentist, Robert Kirke, to the practice!

At Bluewater we offer a large range of treatments. As well as our restorative and preventative dental services, we offer a full range of cosmetic treatments. Our facial aesthetics include dermal fillers and botox and our whitening treatments range from airflow treatments to Philips Zoom. We are also a registered provider of Invisalign (invisible braces).

During November, we are delighted to offer Gryffe Advertizer readers a huge discount of 20% on both Whitening and Invisalign treatments. Please quote ‘Gryffe’ when calling the practice on 01505 843 105 or email info@ bluewaterdentist.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming new patients to the practice this Christmas and to all of our existing patients we would like to thank you for your warm support in 2015.

Reporting Road Faults The rain and frost causes difficult road conditions. Please report road faults ASAP; you will save others a great deal of grief and might even save a life.

You can report a road fault or pothole by phone or online.

Visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk or www.inverclyde.gov.uk depending on the location, or call Renfrewshire on 0300 3000 300 from Monday - Friday, 8am - 6pm. Outwith these hours, you can call 0300 300 0144 to report faults.

For Inverclyde call 01475 714800 or out of hours contact RALF (Roads and Lighting Faults) 0800 37 36 35.

Here’s what you need to do this winter to reduce the risk of a breakdown and make sure that you are equipped to deal with the conditions.

Check your car Antifreeze – check coolant level regularly and, if required, top-up with a mixture of the correct type of antifreeze. Your garage should check concentration to ensure adequate cold temperature protection.

Battery – the most common cause of winter breakdowns. A battery more than five years old may struggle in the cold - get it checked and replaced if necessary to avoid the inconvenience of an unplanned failure.

Fuel – keep at least a quarter of a tank in case of unexpected delay.

Lights – check and clean all lights regularly to make sure you can see and be seen clearly. Carry spare bulbs.

Tyres – should have at least 3mm of tread for winter motoring. Consider winter tyres for improved safety. Check pressures at least every fortnight.

Windscreen – reduce dazzle from the low sun by keeping the screen clean inside and out. Now is a good time to renew worn wiper blades.

Screen wash – use a 50% mix of a good quality screen wash to reduce the chance of freezing in frosty weather.

Locks and door seals – stop doors freezing shut with a thin coat of polish or Vaseline on rubber door seals. A squirt of water dispersant (WD-40) in locks will help stop them freezing.

Information sourced from www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/seasonal/ winter-checklist.html

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Parking In Kilmacolm As I write Council Officers have informed me that the change in the village from 30 minute to 2 hour parking will not now happen until MAY 2016. This is bureaucracy gone mad and is the result of a poorly scrutinised policy by the relevant committee. A ‘one fits all’ policy never works. Kilmacolm is not the same as Greenock.

An indication was given to traders in February at a meeting that the change would happen in November 2015. The drop in footfall is discernible and the arrival of traffic wardens to coincide with the September and October Farmers market emptied the village. I see no reason to issue fines on both days for parking on white lines in the main car park.

My surgeries are 14th Nov 11am12noon at Cargill and 26th Nov Clune Park Community Centre 5pm-6pm. I can be contacted at david.wilson@inverclyde.gov. uk and 01475 741969 and 712727 and 07766 992294.

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Fireworks on The Cycle Path

by Andy Stark, The Studio, Bridge of Weir

bishopton, langbank ..................................................... & bridge of weir One World Celebration

Sat 31 Oct 10.30am-2pm, Royal British Legion Hall, Bridge of Weir Browse and buy a range of fairly traded and ethical goods, including Rainbow Turtle, Olive Tree and Phantasanja.

Learn more about LEAP and support Brighter Bridge of Weir. Also Puppet shows, Face painting and Kilombero rice.

Be entertained by the talented members of the Houston Folk Club and Primary school choirs. Enjoy a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee and homebaking or a bowl of delicious soup. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Bishopton Sports & Social Club Xmas Shopping Event

Pre-Christmas Painting Sale and Kids Painting Competition Art Exhibition from Monday 16 November The Bridge, Main St, Bridge of Weir celebrates another Art Exhibition. Browse for little gifts and Christmas cards including one designed by one of the local artist, Alison Bannerman, maybe the original will be for sale at the Art Show. The exhibition opens on 16th November with a selection of original paintings and prints from only £10. You could give an ‘original’ gift this Xmas.

With so much interest in the little Gallery at the post office, a special Painting competition for kids under 11 will start on the same day. To make it easy all the kids have to do is post in the’ little Kids post box.’ Easy as 1.2.3. (All children's artwork to be A4 please).

1 Put name, address and tel.no on back of A4 paper 2 Paint a snow scene.

3.Post in Kids POST box in The Bridge

Sunday 29 November from 2pm to 5pm Bishopton Sports and Social Club Join us at this special Christmas Shopping Event. There will be stalls selling, books, confectionery, perfume, jewellery, tartan goods, cards and many other products to help with those gifts which need a little more of a personal touch. Entry will be £2 this will include tea/coffee and cake. Come along for a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience at this hectic time.

D.E.R.A. Open Night

The Box will be opened on Mon 21 December when an Independent judge will choose the winner and the child will be notified before Christmas. There will be a Special gift for the winner!

Thursday 26 Nov at The Bridge, starts 7.30pm.

If you have not visited The Bridge, what better time to pop in and get your stamps, cards etc , have a tea or coffee and support all the work the volunteers do to keep the post office open. Find out more about the Bridge Activities.

We would like to invite the residents of Donaldfield Estate to a open night at The Bridge. Please come along and give us your views and any issue you may have about the area we live in.

Bridge of Weir SWI Thurs 5 November - Marc Herbison of Bernie's Cafe Deli We are delighted to welcome Marc Herbison from Bernie’s Cafe Deli and look forward to hearing about running a local business and plans for the future at this popular cafe. The meeting will start at 7.15 for 7.30pm in the British Legion. Visitors and new members will be warmly welcomed.

Bridge of Weir Lace Group We meet fortnightly, on Tuesday mornings, throughout the winter.

If you are interested please phone 01505 613967. Everyone is welcome.

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Bishopton Fireworks Display Saturday 7 November at the ROF Car Park, Station Road, Bishopton - 7pm Please come and join us for our annual fireworks display . No need to travel to Glasgow or Paisley .

A community event for the people of our community. £2 per person, under 5’s free .

Food and drinks will be available.

Bishopton Christmas Art and Crafts Fair Saturday 21 November at Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton between 10am and 3pm Bishopton Art Group will host their annual Christmas Art and Crafts Fair. Local amateur artists and crafts people will offer a variety of products for sale that will make ideal Christmas presents. The venue has free parking and is a 5-minute walk from Bishopton railway station.

Admission to the Christmas Art and Craft fair is free. Tea, Coffee and delicious home baking will be available.

Linda Mitchell, organiser of Bishopton Art Group’s Christmas Art and Craft Fair said,

.......................................

“Bishopton Art Group is pleased to announce that our annual Christmas Art and Crafts Fair will be held on Saturday 22nd November at Bishopton Community Centre. There promises to be a wide selection of art and craft on display, which would make ideal Christmas presents. Tea, coffee and some great home baking will also be available during the event. Admission is free.”

The Bridge - celebrates its 4th Birthday during November!

"Happy Birthday!" Support The Bridge – buy your packs of Christmas cards, individual cards, wrapping paper, Christmas tags, money gift wallets, diaries for 2016 and our very popular 2016 Calendar showcasing Bridge of Weir scenes over the year.

Community Centre - please use the expertise provided within The Bridge. The Hard of Hearing Clinic takes place on the third Friday afternoon of each month.

Villagers can visit the clinic to obtain free batteries or have questions answered without having to travel to the RAH in Paisley. The Citizens Advice Bureau has bookable appointments every second Monday and our MSP, Derek Mackay, and MP, Gavin Newlands, each hold monthly surgeries.

Post Office – During Post Office opening hours, Donald, Pat and Anne are always happy to assist. Please remember the overseas posting deadlines!!!

ADVANCE NOTICE - Craft Fair & Xmas Lights 1) During the afternoon of Tuesday 1st December a group of local crafters are holding a Craft Fair when their goods will be on sale.

2) To celebrate the switching on of the Christmas Lights, The Bridge will open between 6.15pm and 8.15pm on Thursday 3rd December. Please join us during our late night opening for a FREE cup of tea or coffee as you relax in the pleasant surroundings of your local community centre and shop.

Finally a big Thank You to the residents of Bridge of Weir and to our loyal band of volunteers who continue to support us.

(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

Bridge of Weir Community Council Press Report

The Driver Feed Back signs currently located on the Kilmacolm Rd in BoW are only here for seven days to record speeds of all drivers passing through. The data collected will give us an idea of how successful the thirty mph count down signs have been, now we have them all facing the correct way, since we should have the data from when they were there a couple of years ago for comparison.

The Meeting approved the office bearers for the coming year; Chair Sandy Clark, Vice Chair Tom Fulton, Secretary Sandra Liddell, Treasurer Jim Farquhar and Minute Secretary Pat Allan.

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The Langbank Community Council: Langbank Matters facebook page is a really useful asset to residents. Whether it is reports of dodgy looking characters going round the village, or accidents and near misses on the roundabout, you get to read it here first. If you have not yet signed up to the page then I would urge you to do so.

Japanese Knotweed is a major problem and can affect the value of your house if found in or near your property. Renfrewshire Council will treat areas of council owned land but would not normally “notice” areas sprayed. The chemicals used by the council have to go through stringent checks and procedures before they go on the market. These are all human/animal and pet friendly and the herbicide we use on Japanese Knotweed is called Garlon Ultra. This has been proven to be the best and most efficient chemical to use for the killing of Knotweed. SEPA have information on their website on how to deal with this invasive species.

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

Contact: 0300-300-1291 or email cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk .

Also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/councillormaclaren

New Members: This was the first meeting after the September Election. 13 nominations were received for Bridge of Weir and all 13 were duly elected to serve on the Community Council for a four year term of Office.

The eight other members are Natalie Don, Sandra Lafferty, Helen Martin, Gordon Lethorn, Maureen McClements, Colin McCulloch, Donald McKenzie and Betty O’Hare.

Police report: Police Area Commander Simon Wright reported a serious violent incident on the cycle path. Two of the culprits have been apprehended and police are on the lookout for a third person.

In September there were 8 crimes reported of which 5 were detected. The Police Rural Team have been patrolling the village frequently and will continue to do so.

Damage & Repairs: Members of the Community Council raised matters including damage to Brighter Bridge of Weir’s planters and youths loitering at the co-op.

Councillor MacLaren reported that the hole in the wall on the core path leading from Main Street to the Glen will be repaired by the flood prevention team.

Six sycamore trees on Houston Road were condemned and have been felled.

On advice from a qualified Arborist, the trees will not be replaced due to the poor condition of the soil. This area is open space and will be maintained by Community Resources.

The Community Council are dis-satisfied by Renfrewshire Council’s response to the flood water not draining from Houston Road Park and have demanded further action to find a solution to this.

Traffic & Roads: Traffic Calming at the entrances to the Village was raised

“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.

once again and members asked why other villages can have solar panelled speed warning indicators erected and we do not. The Community Council will raise this with the Roads department.

GSC’s Xmas Fayre

Resurfacing works on the Kilgraston to Lawmarnock Road has left dips on the verge. The contractor has been asked to infill these areas with suitable material.

Thursday 19 November from 11am - 2pm at The Good Shepherd Centre, Greenock Road, Bishopton. This is a free event.

The stalls are made up from all the effort and hard work of our young people, staff, high schools in our local area and local community! The Stalls will range from: Festive Gifts, Bake Sale, Arts & Crafts, Food Stall, Reiki and even more!!

So come along for FREE and help support your local community and most importantly have fun!

Langbank SWI Thursday 19 November, The Village Centre at 7.30pm.

Our speaker for this month will be Jackie Grey (member) who will, as a `Puppy Walker`, give an insight into The Guide Dog Association. We look forward to hearing how Jackie and Zenner….. Ahhhhhhhhh…… are getting along after a number of months in training.

A further request was made to have a Bus shelter at the Kilmacolm Road stop.

Valuation Day: Bridge of Weir Community Council hosted an Antiques

Valuation Day in the Royal British Legion Hall. Over 120 people attended the event including visitors from as far afield as Ayrshire and the Borders.

The event was led by Anita Manning (the well-known TV expert) and her team from Great Western Auctions and it resulted in a significant sum being raised for the community. This will be used to enhance the Christmas Lights Switch on Event.

The team of experts provided a very sympathetic assessment of the valuables brought to them, even though some of them were of sentimental value only.

However imagine the joy of one person who bought a jewelled box on ebay for £14 to find that it was worth over £600.

Xmas Lights: A date for your diary, Bridge of Weir Christmas Lights Switch on Thursday 3rd December. More details next month.

As always we will give a warm welcome to members and visitors.

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Proposal of Application Notice, Bridge of Weir This is a Proposal of Application Notice (POAN). A POAN is a notice that a prospective developer is required to serve on the local planning authority advising of an intention to submit an application for planning permission for a development which would fall within the statutory definition of “Major” (which in the case of residential development would be where the site is greater than 2 hectares in area or result in more that 50 housing units). A POAN confirms the prospective developers intention to carry out the other pre-application requirements which include holding a public event, the details of which are to be advertised a minimum of 7 days beforehand, and to advise the community council, within whose area the development is situated, of the event. This preapplication consultation exercise is for the prospective developer to initiate, organise and conduct and after which the developer must prepare a report on its results to accompany any subsequent application for planning permission which may be made. The planning authority has no involvement at this stage other than to acknowledge the Notice if it is competently made; and to confirm that a planning application cannot be submitted sooner than three months from the date of receipt of the Notice. The purpose of the exercise is for the developer to engage with the local community, and for the community to express their views direct to the prospective developer/applicant either in writing or through attendance at the event.

The Notice indicates that it is the prospective developers’ intention to hold their public meeting in the Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent on 2nd December 2015 between 3pm and 7pm. There is also a statutory requirement that they must advertise this event in the local press a minimum of seven days before the event is to be held.

Should a formal planning application subsequently emerge after the public event and after expiry of the three month period, it would be publicised on the Council’s Weekly List of Planning Applications, it would be advertised in the press, it would be subject to statutory neighbour notification procedures and there would be the normal opportunity at that time for representations to be made to the local planning authority.

Since any future planning application would fall within the category of “Major” it would not be a matter to be determined under the Scheme of Delegation to Officers. If the proposal, as in this case, is likely to be significantly contrary to the development plan, the determination would require to be made by full Council (after a Pre-Determination Hearing at the Planning and Property Policy Board). You should therefore bear in mind that even if not a member of the Planning and Property Policy Board, you may at some future point be involved in the formal decision making forum if the matter comes before the Council for a decision.

Bridge of Weir TARA The police report showed that statistically over the past month there has been very little crime committed in the village. Two common assaults, three thefts, one of a bike, a case of shoplifting and bizarrely, the theft of headlights from a car! Two persons from outwith the village were arrested on drug charges, the possession of a knife and the vandalism of a police vehicle. This was a case of pro-action by the police who had intelligence on these two persons. The serious assault which took place on the cycle track in the early hours of Saturday the 12th September has led to three men being taken into custody and they are currently in jail.

Cllr Holmes said that a further planning application to build on greenbelt land surrounding the village had been made - see adjacent report on this page.

Two of the recycling bins in Livery Walk car park do not belong to the council, but to a private company who have been instructed to remove them forthwith, or suffer the consequences. The council are currently looking at whether the recycling bins could be better sited within the confines of the car park.

The Council’s Environmental Services department are going to look at streetlighting and foliage around the village after TARA highlighted major problems with this issue in some areas. The Council will make it clear to landowners their responsibility as regards foliage on their properties interfering with streetlighting and the appropriate action will be taken where necessary to ensure they do.

TARA are currently working in conjunction with Cllr MacLaren to get the hole in the wall at the bottom of The Glen fixed as soon as possible and the Council’s Community Resources department will be taking responsibility for the work.

Staying with The Glen, TARA have requested that the “Bridge of Weir Walks” signs are renewed or removed, as the present ones are either faded or vandalised. The flooding in Houston Road Park has become a big issue and will be taken forward by all three of our local Councillors as they seek a solution from the Council.

The next meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA will be in the Pirie Centre, Freeland Church on Tuesday 17th November at 7.30pm.

Many children in Langbank enjoyed tennis lessons at the tennis court over the summer months and there are plans by local parents and volunteers to improve the facilities.

These proved to be extremely popular with the children and by parents, grandparents and carers who enjoyed meeting each other and socialising whilst the children learnt basic tennis techniques. The court is in need of an upgrade and the club house has seen better days. I will be supporting the efforts for improvements so that we can produce the next Andy Murray!

Bishopton Cemetery is well maintained and visitors – some of whom have travelled from overseas – have commented on this. However the cemetery gates could do with repainting and I have asked the department responsible to ensure that this is scheduled as soon as possible.

On a similar note the boundary fence between Moss Road Park and the old railway line in Bridge of Weir has been damaged and I have requested that the department carry out the necessary repairs.

Congratulations to Bridge of Weir Community Council for raising £900 to help with the costs of the Christmas lights switch-on event. They held an Antiques Valuation day with Anita Manning and her team of valuers in the British Legion Hall which proved to be very popular Email: 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.

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kilmacolm & quarriers

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Following on from last month’s report when we advised you of additional investment in roads and footways in the ward, this month we can report that both Quarrier’s Village and Kilmacolm will see significant investment in new street lighting lanterns over the coming months as part of an £800,000 investment by the Council this financial year. Over 200 lanterns are due for replacement in the villages with more energy efficient and brighter ones.

Councillor McCabe was pleased to be able to attend the launch of Kilmacolm Primary’s new house system last month. Pupils and staff are now settled in their temporary home in the former St Stephen’s High School building in Port Glasgow for a year while their school undergoes a £4.3m refurbishment. The nursery class remains in Kilmacolm in temporary accommodation in the school car park.

Bridge for Beginners Kilmacolm DO YOU WANT TO LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE??

Classes continue on Wednesday evenings from 7.15pm – 9.15pm in the Kilmacolm Community Centre.

This class is suitable for beginners and those with a little experience in the game.

Further details 872345.

phone

Spiritualist Church

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm Help every Tuesday @ 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm)

01505

Councillor McCabe also attended a meeting between Kilmacolm Community Council and The Royal Bank of Scotland to discuss the planned closure of the village branch. The meeting was constructive with RBS providing reassurance on the future of the ATM and confirming that a mobile branch would visit Kilmacolm three times a week. There is no doubt the strong response to the closure from the Community Council and local elected members has helped secure this level of service, which is higher than proposed for some other villages.

Knapps Bonfire Kilmacolm

We would like to congratulate the new members of Kilmacolm Community Council on their election. It is pleasing that a community council has been formed to cover the Kilmacolm and Quarrier’s area. Unfortunately some other areas of Inverclyde have not been as fortunate with insufficient nominations received for a community council to be formed.

Entry cost £2 per head. Remember to leave plenty of time to walk out to the field as on-street parking nearby is limited. The event goes ahead whatever the weather!

We would like to thank the outgoing Chairman of Kilmacolm Community Council, Stephen Hampson, for his distinguished service over the last few years. He will be a hard act to follow.

Kilmacolm now has more than 1,100 homes and businesses now able to access superfast fibre broadband, as a result of investment from the Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband programme. The rollout is being delivered on the ground by engineers from BT’s local network business, Openreach. Further information can be accessed on the Digital Scotland website.

Councillor McColgan - My surgeries this month are on Tuesday 3 November, 6– 7pm, in St Francis’ Primary School and Tuesday 17 November, 5.30–6.30pm, in Kilmacolm Community Centre. You can reach me on 01475 712727 (during office hours) and 07881 280016 (anytime) or by emailing me at james. mccolgan@inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock PA15 1LY. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my website: http://jamesmccolgan.com. You can also follow me on Twitter @jamesmccolgan.

Councillor McCabe - My surgeries this month are on Monday 16 November, 6-7pm, in St Francis’ Primary School and Tuesday 24 November, 6.30 – 7.30pm, in Kilmacolm Community Centre. You can also contact me directly to discuss any matters that are of concern to you by telephone on 01475 712020 (during office hours) and 871368 (home) or by email to Stephen.McCabe@inverclyde. gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm PA13 4HL. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my blog: http://councillorstephenmccabe.blogspot.com/ and follow me on Twitter @CllrSMcCabe.

Saturday 7 November, Knapps Loch - Kilmacolm from 4.30pm A fun-filled evening of excitement for all the family. Gates open 4.30pm. Bonfire lit at 6pm followed by Fireworks Display.

As this is a voluntary event, any assistance in building the bonfire or helping on the Evening would be much appreciated. If you can help please contact Peter Kellock on 01505 872190 or Lawrie Campbell on 01505 873535.

OUTLOOK OUTLOOK meets as a social community group for an afternoon of friendship and fellowship in the Kidston Hall at 2pm on 1st and 3rd Thursdays monthly.

On Thursday 5th November we look forward to welcoming Jennifer Sim, leader of the Kilmacolm Rock Choir. Maybe a few members of the choir will come along too!

On Thursday 19th November the group will hear from Robert Jaconelli, an advanced driving instructor, with stories and advice on today’s modern motoring methods. Plus afternoon tea, chat, and community issues for discussion.

Everyone welcome.

Xmas Card Sale

Tuesday 3 November, Village Centre, Kilmacolm 10am 12.30pm.

Sale of MND (motor neurone disease) Christmas Cards. Come along and support this very worthwhile cause.

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Coffee Morning and Christmas Fayre Saturday 7 November, 9.45am -11.45am, Kidston Hall Kilmacolm Hosted by Kilmacolm Friends of Ardgowan Hospice. In addition to the Fayre, there will be home baking, cards and gift stalls. We hope to see you there.

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The service at the War Memorial will be on Sunday 8th November after the Church services in the village. This act of Remembrance has grown in size and I have specifically asked Scottish Water that they finish their works on the B786 by 5th November to allow council staff to prepare the site and to accommodate the many cars. Again this year the Reverend Peter McEnhill will lead the village’s tribute with the 2 minute silence at 11am on 11th November in the Cargill Centre. All welcome.

From 25th November the RBS Mobile Bank will come to the village 3 times per week for an hour, less than satisfactory as the Bank closure will inconvenience many individuals, businesses and organisations. I must congratulate Stephen Hampson of the Community Council for organising a meeting with officials of the Bank. These officials wonder why the closure was leaked! Can I suggest that they in future do not tout the property for sale before telling staff and customers. Poor show, but somehow or other not surprising. Stephen Hampson has stood down as Chair of the KCC, he will be missed.

There have been rumours about the X7 bus service ceasing. This is not the case.

The email I received from McGill’s Buses via SPT is “This is sheer speculation with no substance to it.”

Roads and carriageway resurfacing that I have campaigned for are currently happening at Blacksholm, Knockbuckle, East Green and Gryffe Roads. The pavement in the latter is very much the De Luxe version.

Glasgow Airport has been awarded with the title of British Airport of the Year.

Under the leadership of its excellent Chief Executive, Amanda MacMillan, the Airport has gone from strength to strength in spite of Scottish Government aid to its nearest competitor, Prestwick. Traffic was up 13% last year and in the 3 months to September handled 2.75 million passengers. Frequent flyers will endorse the speed of security clearance at Glasgow.

As I write Council Officers have informed me that the change in the village from 30 minute to 2 hour parking will not now happen until MAY 2016. This is bureaucracy gone mad and is the result of a poorly scrutinised policy by the relevant committee. A one fits all policy never works. Kilmacolm is not the same as Greenock. An indication was given to traders in February at a meeting that the change would happen in November 2015. The drop in footfall is discernible and the arrival of traffic wardens to coincide with the September and October Farmers market emptied the village. I see no reason to issue fines on both days for parking on white lines in the main car park.

The Bonfire and Fireworks display at Knapps, courtesy of Lord McLay and Robert Baxter, will take place on Saturday 7th November. Doors open at 4.30pm, proceedings start prompt at 6 pm. Entry is £3 adults and £2 children.

This is a village event with many volunteers who make it possible, but I would mention Sam Johnston, Laurie Campbell, Peter Kellock and Dougie Lyle of Scart Farm for their sterling efforts.

Surgeries: 14th Nov 11am-12pm Cargill Centre, 26th Clune Park Community Centre 5pm-6pm.

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

Hall to Hire Kilmacolm Guide Hut is a great venue with easy access near to the village centre. Newly refurbished main hall, with additional kitchen facilities and outdoor area. Perfect for children’s parties, weekly classes and one off special occasions. For further details please contact Carol on 01505 874428.

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kilmacolm

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

News from the KilmacolmMérignies Twinning

The Mérignies section of the famous cobblestones which form part of the ParisRoubaix cycle race.

The friendship between Kilmacolm and Mérignies continues to thrive. The up and coming weeks and into 2016 will see a number of events, ideas and initiatives come to fruition.

In early November a delegation from Kilmacolm Golf Club will visit Le Golf Country Club de Mérignies to formalise reciprocal arrangements between the two clubs. Our Scottish visitors will no doubt enjoy a round of golf or two followed by a hearty lunch in the club’s brasserie.

Towards the end of November, the second exchange will take place between Saint Columba’s and L’immaculée Conception with the Scottish pupils visiting their French counterparts. As usual, pupils will stay with host families in and around Mérignies and there will be a formal reception for them organised by Mérignies town hall.

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Of interest to wine buffs is a wine-tasting event with a focus on French wine, planned for late February. This will be a fund-raiser to help finance an exhibition about Kilmacolm which we hope to send to Mérignies. More information to follow…

We will announce other initiatives and ideas in the near future.

A bientot!

Kilmacolm Christmas Card Christmas c a r d s are now available to purchase f r o m the Post Office and Threads in Kilmacolm.

“Snowtime at Birkmyre Park, Kilmacolm” from an original oil painting by Jim Wood.

Twinning Churches The Old Kirk in Kilmacolm has been twinned with St.Peter's Presbyterian Church in Gweru Zimbabwe for several years. Despite deteriorating conditions in Zimbabwe the congregation of St.Peter's have always been optimistic and forward looking.

Two years ago Ronald was inducted as their new Minister. Ronald had been to visit us in Kilmacolm before his induction and was able to tell us of the plans to build a new classroom block next to the church as there was little educational support locally for the children. The Old Kirk set out to support this project and have sent funds to support the building process. However, delays have ensued due to problems getting plans approved and inspections made.

With unemployment in Gweru now at 85% we are trying to actively support them and half of the funds gained from the Christmas Fair will go together with £1200 already donated by the Old Kirk Congregation directly to St.Peter's.

Help us to help them by supporting the Christmas Fair which is to be held in the Kidston Hall on Saturday 12th December.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

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Brookfield Village Hall The nights are drawing in, the leaves are changing and the smoke from home fires are starting to rise above the rooftops of Brookfield once again. As we head towards winter, the Brookfield Gardening Club and some kind villagers worked hard to prune and weed the Millennium Garden at the top of Victoria Road. New bulbs have also been planted which we look forward to seeing in Spring.

Grateful thanks to all who participated and the garden is now looking nice and tidy, ready for whatever winter brings.

Saturday 31st October

Children's Halloween Party

Brookfield once again hosted one of its afternoon tea events on Sunday 25th October, the day the clocks went back.

An extra hour in bed, home baking and convivial chat with friends and neighbours is always popular!

Sewing volunteers are urgently needed to assist with replacing curtain linings in the hall in November. Please email Brookfieldvpa@gmail.com or phone your local Village Councillor if you are able to help and can bring your own sewing machine. Cotton and linings have already been purchased. The annual Syllabus will recently have dropped on resident’s doormats and this gives contact names and telephone numbers, along with a useful list of upcoming and ongoing events.

2015 at 2pm.

Please email Brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com to indicate attendance. Tickets on the door are £4.

Children's Christmas Party Saturday 5th December from 2pm to 4pm.

Plans are already underway! To assist Santa and his helpers choose a suitable gift, please confirm your child’s attendance by 21st November by emailing b ro o k f i e l d v p a @ g m a i l . c o m or phoning your local Village Councillor. Tickets are £5.

Kirk Postie Raising money for Renfrewshire Christmas Lunch, a local Charity who are hosting a Christmas Day lunch for unpaid carers and people who are on their own at Christmas.

Http://christmas-lunch-renfrewshire. weebly.com/ For a donation of only 20p a card, the Kirk Postie will deliver anywhere in Houston, Crosslee and Brookfield.

The Sorting Office, in the West Church Halls, Main Street, Houston, will be open from 10am to 12noon and again from 7pm to 8pm every day from Monday 14 to Thursday 17 December.

Cards may also be taken to the Church on Sunday 13 December.

Delivery is guaranteed not later than Tuesday 22 December.

Houston & Crosslee SWI At our next meeting on Wednesday 11th November our speaker will be John Gall from Brownings the Bakers. We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston at 7.30pm.

Everyone will be made very welcome. For further information please contact Arlene McKay on 0141 884 6210

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston What’s on November 2015 Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438

MONDAY • Embroiderers Guild (weekly) 10am – 12pm • Yoga (weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw 01505 610217 • Rockstar Tumbling Class (weekly) 4.15pm Roz Hart 07734 714131 • Diaporama 9th 7.30pm • Young Farmers 16th & 23rd 7.30pm

TUESDAY • Paint Pot Tots (weekly) 10am Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 • Musical Theatre (weekly) 4pm • Yoga (weekly) 7pm Ms Lawson 01505 613690 • Agric Discussion Soc. 10th 7.30pm • Pony Club (24th) 7.30pm Sandra Reid 01505 873698

WEDNESDAY

• SWI 4th 10am – 3pm • French Class (weekly) 3.15pm F McDevitt 0141 886 6282 • Galaxy Dance (weekly) 4pm Lauren 07974 285102 • Councillors Surgeries 18th 6.30pm • Cricketfield Res. Association 25th 6.30pm • Gryffe Melody Makers 4th & 18th 7pm • Camera Club (weekly) 7.30pm • Houston Community Council 18th 7.30pm

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THURSDAY • Gryffe Quilting Group (weekly) 1pm3pm (19th 10-3pm) • French Class 4pm F McDevitt • Crafty Friends 5th & 19th 7.30pm • Folk Club (weekly) 8pm Paddybullen@live.co.uk

FRIDAY • Galaxy Dancing (weekly ext 16th) 4pm Lauren • MP Surgery (13th) 12.30 – 1.30pm • Houston Show Whist Drive 27th 7.30pm

SATURDAY • Galaxy Dancing (weekly ext 17th) 9.30am Lauren • MacBraveheart (21st) 7.30pm www.houstonmacb.eventbrite.com

SUNDAY • Baptist Church (weekly) 11am and 6pm • A Sketch a Sandwich & a Swally (1st) 6.30pm Bill Walker 01505 612262

Booking enquiries to Ian Simpson, 01505 612203 Sandy Young 01505 331488 Bill Haddow 01505 690693 hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

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Congratulations and best wishes to all the candidates who have been elected to serve (until September 2019) on the Houston and Brookfield Community Councils. Meetings of Community Councils are open to members of the public and an opportunity should be afforded at each meeting to allow the public to address the meeting, under the control of the Chairperson.

Following complaints from residents in connection with the construction traffic using Houstonfield Quadrant and surrounding streets, I contacted Renfrewshire Council who brought the issues to the attention of the contractors asking that consideration should be given to the impact on local residents and that good neighbourly relations be maintained.

It was good to be invited once again to attend the Annual Awards Ceremony at St Benedict’s High School. Well done to all who received an award.

On Sunday 8th November it will be a privilege to lay a wreath on behalf of the Council at Houston’s War Memorial in honour of those who gave their lives for our freedom in the two World Wars.

The public consultation on the draft proposed Local Authority Ward Boundaries ended on 22nd October. Any changes to Ward boundaries will be confirmed in 2016 and implemented for the 2017 Local Government elections.

My surgeries are held on the second Tuesday of the month in the Brookfield Village Hall from 6pm to 6.30pm then in the Houston Village Hall from 7pm to 7.45pm I can be contacted by phone on 01505 610018 or by e-mail at cllr.allan. noon@renfrewshire.gov.uk or through Renfrewshire Council on 0300 300 1265

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Sale Of Art And Crafts Saturday 7 November at the Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan, from 11am until 2pm - Free admission Kilbarchan Habbies Art Group are holding a sale of paintings and items of craft work. This is a great opportunity to buy original art works and hand made crafts for a bargain price. Come along early and find the perfect gift for Christmas, birthday or a treat for yourself.

This sale is for one day only and is not to be missed . Why buy a print when you can own an original!

Houston & Killellan Agricultural Society Annual Whist Drive Friday 27 November in the Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston.

Everybody welcome. For more information contact Isabelle Stuart 01505 613479 or e-mail issistuart@fsmail.net

Diaporama October’s meeting was a ‘Ruby Collection’ by Colin. It was an evening of superb images combined with beautifully and appropriately selected music. We started in Italy with ‘Carnaval de Venise’ with all the fantastic costumes, masks etc. associated with carnival time. We visited Scotland - this was as a result of seeing a sequence last session from a group in England.

We went to ‘Varanesi’ in India with its Holy river, London at night and the ‘Yorkshire Dales’ as a tribute to Joe Crocker. ‘Car Art’ was a look at the details on American cars at Mildenhall air base in Suffolk, England. We had motor bike action at the "Isle of Man TT" and the "Road to Hell" saw cyclists riding from Paris to Roubaix (Belgium) over cobbles!!!

Colin always manages to take fantastic images of dancers and he produced 2 sequences - "The Dance Studio" - a photo book showing the expertise of the dancers and "Dance Studio B&W" - all these images were black and white and really showed the dance positions to best effect. It was a super evening enjoyed by us all.

Our next meeting is on Monday 12th November at 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre, Houston and is titled David’s “T_O’_B 2”.

Visitors welcome.

always

All photos by Colin Wilkinson

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

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The new community group, Kilbarchan Smiles, has been very active of late working in a small but determined way to keep Kilbarchan the lovely clean and green village that it is. Of course, Renfrewshire Council has its part to play and I will always fight to ensure that the village gets its fair share of council resources, but it is good for community spirit and collective self respect to try and do what we can ourselves.

Recently I enjoyed some hours with Kilbarchan Smiles tidying up the garden at the popular Old Library Centre, which is itself a key resource for the village.

Recently I was delighted to attend the Open Night organised

by Kilbarchan Community Nursery, which has served the village so well over the decades. In 1999 the Community Nursery moved to a new purpose build site next to Kilbarchan Primary School, and our son, Iain, who is now at university, was one of the first in the new building so the Open Night brought back many happy family memories. It was particularly good to see the Kilbarchan Fairtrade stall there putting the case for an ethical economic system world wide.

Across Renfrewshire there has been recent elections for all the various Community Councils who do so much to articulate local concerns and opinions to government at all levels. I noticed that Kilbarchan CC has some new members and so too, in greater numbers, has Lochwinnoch CC. This bodes well for local democracy and for the right of our villages to stand up for their basic interests.

A special thank you to those CC office bearers who are standing down after years of dedicated service.

My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall at 7:45pm, and my advice surgery in Lochwinnoch is on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 7:30pm, excluding July. 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.

BT Box Upgrade from Cllr Doig Cllr Andy Doig is celebrating the fact that he persuaded British Telecom to repair and restore the only red iconic BT phone box left in Lochwinnoch, next to Lochwinnoch Parish Church. It was formerly very dilapidated but a pleased Cllr Doig said: “BT assured me its levels of use still justifies its presence in Lochwinnoch so it is good to know it is still a lifeline for some, and that now it looks much more bright and clean”.

Kilbarchan Churches The joint services for the churches in Kilbarchan during November will be as follows:Sunday 1st November – West Church – The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated at 11am and 2pm Sunday 8th November – West Church – There will be a short Service of Remembrance at the War Memorial at 10am followed by a service in the West Church at 10.45am Sunday 15th November – East Church at 11am Sunday 22nd November – West Church at 11am Sunday 29th November – East Church at 11am Please join us at any of these services. You will be made most welcome.

The Kilbarchan Guild meets in the East Church Hall on Tuesdays the 10th and 24th November at 2.30pm.

On the 10th, Mrs Joy Blair will tell us all about the Canals from Glasgow to Johnstone and on the 24th, Vivienne Macdonald will take us on a trip involving ‘Parkas, Puffins and Polar Bears.’ The Guild is open to both men and women and you will be made most welcome.

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Lochwinnoch Community Council The following 20 candidates were declared elected, unopposed, to Lochwinnoch Community Council and Office Bearers were appointed at the AGM on Tuesday 6th October.

David Arthur (Chairperson), Morag Thow (Vice Chairperson), Yvonne Ross (Secretary), Jane Owens (Treasurer), Duncan Adam (Planning Convenor/SRANI) Hazel Dundas (Minutes Secretary), Kerry MacKendrick (CMRP Liaison), Donna Armstrong, Christine Brown, James Bryden, Graeme Brown, Morna Coote, Christine Gibson, Ann McKeary, Catherine McLachlan, Christine Midgley, Anne Nicholl, Gordon Nicholl, John Richmond and Eric Whitfield.

Community Council meetings will take place on the first Tuesday of each month, commencing at 7.30pm in the Bowling Club, Calderhaugh Lane, Lochwinnoch.

Members of the public are most welcome to attend these meetings. Agendas will be published prior to each meeting and minutes of meetings will be made available to view in Lochwinnoch Library. You can contact the Secretary of Lochwinnoch Community Council as follows: Email: secretarylochwinnochcc@ gmail.com and Mobile (voicemail and text): 07899 746403.

There is a Correspondence Box for all other communications for Lochwinnoch CC, which is a drop box located behind the counter in Lochwinnoch Library, accessible during library opening hours. The next Community Council meeting will take place on Tuesday 3rd November at 7.30pm at Lochwinnoch Bowling Club, Calderhaugh Lane, Lochwinnoch.

Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders Thurs, Fri & Sat 26-28 November, East Church Hall, Steeple Square, at 7.30pm each evening.

Kilbarchan East Church Drama Group presents ”Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders” by Derek Webb.

Tickets are available in Bobbins Coffee Shop, Kilbarchan or by phoning the hotline: 01505 336336.

This is a thriller/ farce/comedy based loosely on the Miss Marple series and as such will give an evening of family entertainment.

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kilbarchan ..................................................... & lochwinnoch Road resurfacing - I am pleased to report that resurfacing work on Wheatlands Drive in Kilbarchan will commence on 16 November. This has been something I have been campaigning for, has been needed for some time, and is welcome news

Winter Roads Plan - Winter is fast approaching, and it is important that the Council's roads and community services are prepared. Within the Council's winter programme the main roads will get priority treatment in the event of bad weather, however I am anxious to ensure that plans are in place to identify other specific areas of vulnerability and for the Council to be able to respond quickly. I have also asked that grit bins are well stocked in advance. I am keen to hear from residents of Lochwinnoch and Kilbarchan who have comments, views or suggestions on this matter, so please get in touch.

Castle Semple - Ironically at the time of writing we are in fact experiencing glorious autumn sunshine, and the facilities at Castle Semple and Clyde Muirshiel Park have never looked better. Neither have the classic cars which graced the 5th anniversary show at the park on a perfect autumn Sunday on 18th October. The classic car event has become a highlight of Lochwinnoch's calendar.

Mary Barbour - Provost Anne Hall will officially mark the completion of the commemorative cairn to Kilbarchan born Mary Barbour at midday on Saturday 21 November. This is in the week of the centenary of the Glasgow rent strike which Mary led against landlords who were exploiting the families of soldiers fighting in World War 1, a strike which brought about a change in housing legislation. This was but one of Mary’s many achievements, as she spent her life campaigning for social justice. She is venerated in the social and political history of the West of Scotland in the early part of the 20th century and her legacy should be remembered in Kilbarchan The cairn is situated in New street opposite the Glenleven Inn close to where Mary was born and spent her childhood.

My next surgery will be on Saturday 7th November at 9am at the McKillop institute Lochwinnoch and 10am at the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan. I can be contacted at derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 01534 156007.

Ladies Evening

Country Dance Classes

Tuesday 10 November, 7.30pm, Kilbarchan East Church Hall

Tuesdays in the McKillop Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm.

Lochwinnoch Parish Church - Kirk Cafe Saturday 14th November 10am - 12noon

Join us for the/coffee, scones, pancakes and cakes. Entry £2.50.

Children free.

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Another Chance to Snap up Collectables - Habbie Hat Sunday 15 November – 12noon to 4pm.

The stage is set for another big attic clear-out event following a successful first Habbie Tat day at The Performing Arts Centre in the old Memorial Hall, Kilbarchan.

Business was brisk with buyers keen to snap up treasures as local folks took advantage of the opportunity to make some space and pass their unwanted bric-a-brac and collectables on to others.

Cart Bridge - I have asked that the trees overhanging the Cart bridge be cut back, and I have been advised by Renfrewshire Council that action will be taken.

Caroline from the Twisted Willow florist’s will demonstrate Christmas arrangements. There will be a gift stall from the shop and also from the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice shop. Entrance £3, including refreshments.

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Hall,

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

Early Bird Christmas Gift and Craft Fair Sunday 1 November, Kilbarchan Guide Centre, High Barholm, Kilbarchan. 1pm-4pm.

There will be a variety of stalls to suit every need; from local artists, beaded and silver jewellery, knitted gifts, cushions, cakes and much more. Entry includes Tea and Coffee: Adults £1.50 Children £50

Local jewellery designer Brenda Temple who organised the event, told the Advertizer: “We had stallholders from Kilbarchan, Bridge of Weir, Kilmacolm and Houston, and several customers who came along looking for nice finds actually expressed interest in taking a stall themselves, next time. Anyone who would like to participate should get in touch as we still have one or two pitches available."

"Door money and donations totalled £110 which is being handed over to support the Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Trust. We will be serving teas, coffee and home baking at the next event,” said Brenda.

Phone 01505 706346 to book a stall.

Lochwinnoch Parish Church Christmas Fayre Saturday 5 December 10am - noon Further information available in the December issue.

Kilbarchan East Church Christmas Fayre Saturday 5 December from 10am - 12noon Early news....Santa Clause will be visiting the East Church Hall. More details in the December issue.

Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan

Recently we have had a number of people calling in to ask about their annual donation to the Centre. Letters are sent out on the anniversary of each individual’s renewal date. We are extremely grateful for the financial aid this gift gives towards the cost of running the Centre. It has also been mentioned that many people are under the impression that the Centre is financed by the local authority. This is not so. Kilbarchan Improvement Projects was set up by a group of local volunteers in 2001 and is recognised as a Scottish Charity and a Company Limited by Guarantee. We depend on the usage of the facility by residents of Kilbarchan and surrounding area and the generosity of our volunteers time. We raise our finance through the very low cost we charge for our services. We act as a drop in Centre where everyone is welcome. We have a lot of free useful local information leaflets. The Centre is open Monday to Friday from l0am to 12noon and 3pm to 4pm.

Our November programme: Mondays - Pilates 10am –ll.l5am Tuesdays First Love Music 10.30am – 11.30am Music and Movement for Toddlers. Yoga 2pm - 4pm. Craft Group 2pm -4pm 1st & 17th November Wednesdays - Yoga 10am-11.30am & 7pm-9pm. Pilates 2pm-3.15pm.

Fridays - Mhairi Black MP surgery 10.30am–ll.l5am 13th November. Bridge Group 2pm-4pm We also have an art exhibition presented by Carol Paterson, Christine Berry and Anne Ferguson on Saturday, 28th and Sunday 29th November from 10am to 5pm. Entrance free.

Lochwinnoch SWI Wednesday 18 November at 7.30pm McKillop hall, Lochwinnoch Wendy Sandiford will be giving us “Glue, Glitz, and Glamour”, just in time for the party season! We look forward to warmly welcoming members old and new with tea and cake. Please remember to bring a cup. For further information contact Elma richmond 10505843193 or email richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

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Doug the Caterpillar Draught Excluder Doug the Caterpillar Draught Excluder has now been stitched up Thanks to October’s Issue of the Advertizer, L E A P has had a tremendous response from knitting groups in our villages and further afield, all keen to enter Doug the Caterpillar Helping Hands Craft Group and their Doug’s Draught Excluder knitting competition, as part of LEAP’s Big Energy Saving Week programme. Home Energy Scotland who has featured Doug their mascot on recent television and newspaper adverts - Yes we all know who Doug is now - to promote the Scottish Government’s Keep Warm this winter campaign, sponsored the competition with prizes for the Best Knitted Doug, the most creative Doug and Simply Doug for best effort. These were presented as part of LEAP’s Big Energy Saving Week at the One World Celebration Event on 31st October. A sample of the entries from the Helping Hands Craft Groups is photographed here to show just what talented and fun loving people our knitters and crafters are.

To find out more about saving energy and cutting out draughts contact info@myleaproject.org or www.myleapproject.org.

NEW Energy Switch Service Launched

LEAP launched its NEW Energy Switch service in October, as part of its Big Energy Saving Week, with a series of Energy Bill surgeries in Lochwinnoch, Houston and Bridge of Weir. Householders brought their fuel bills along to ask questions about rising energy costs, savings they might make, and to find out more about what options they might have to switch to a new energy supplier or get impartial advice on what was available to them. To attend an Energy Bill surgery in November, call 01505 842530 or 612034 or visit LEAP on www.myleapproject.org .

LEAP teams up for the Calais Appeal A HUGE thanks to everyone who answered the LEAP and the Kilbarchan Kirk’s appeal, on behalf of Erskine to Calais. A list of some of items that were donated included 25 duvets, 31 blankets, 12 sleeping bags, 2 tents, 4 camping stoves, torches and toiletries.

Local Business Energy Support Service LEAP can now offer support to local businesses to save on their energy bills. This new service offers businesses of all sizes and types the opportunity to access competitive quotes from across the broad energy market, to reduce energy costs and the associated fees and to fit with their business needs and growth. To find out more or to make an enquiry about this service, email services@myleapproject. org or visit www.myleapproject,org/business.

Kilbarchan NWR The group has two meetings in November - the national Telephone quiz, always a fun evening and “Famous Families”- e.g. the Rothschilds, the Kennedys. We are also invited to an Arabic evening in Bridge of Weir with supper and wine. If you would like more information about joining the group, please either telephone 703786 or visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

Kilbarchan Fairtrade Group - Curry Night At the September meeting it was agreed to support a Curry Night at the Trust. Discussion ensued about the best possible date-Tuesday’s are preferred by the Trust. It has not been finally confirmed, but the Curry Night will take place on Tuesday 10th November. Watch out for notices at the Trust and throughout the village confirming the date and time.

Christmas Craft Fair Saturday 7 November, McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch As part of the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival outreach a preChristmas Craft Fair from 1pm til 4pm.

howwood & elderslie .....................................................

Meddle & Make & then a Swap Well it all sounds pretty strange stuff but 16 local women, 3 tutors and 4 helpers led by LEAP spent their Saturday from 11am till 4pm designing and screen printing bags, recycling and re-fashioning clothes, tie dying with onions, cabbage and wood, to create some of the most impressive and artistic individual creations that 20 days shopping and 2 weeks design school could never have brought about. And that was only the Meddle and Make part. The Swap, an evening fund raising event for Kilbarchan Primary School and its parents group entertained school parents and their friends in a clothes and uniforms SWAP supported by a small design team that had Kilbarchan Guide Hall transformed into Aladdin’s Cave. Take a look at the workshop and event film of the day on myleapproject.org/facebook page. You’ll get a real idea through the interviews with participants and the craft workshops of the creative energy and fun. To enquire about future Silkscreen printing, Tie Dye Techniques, Re-Fashioning, Patchwork Quilting, and more workshops, contact gillian@myleapproject.org or visit www.myleapproject.org.

Photos of the Meddle and Make workshop par ticipants and photo of the artwork design.

September and October is a very busy time for local groups and Councillors and I have attended a few events in the area. At this time of the year, Community Councils hold their AGM's. Howwood Community Council have attracted a few new members and I wish them well and I'm sure they will fight the villages corner in the years to come.

St Benedict's High School held its annual prize giving and I was impressed by both the academic achievements and the sporting success its pupils enjoyed in the last year. So well done to everybody involved.

I also recently attended a conference concerning how we as a council / community look after vulnerable adults. I took a lot out of the day but what I found most important is that is the responsibility falls on all of us to first of all take care of vulnerable adults but also to report anything that we see that makes us feel uncomfortable about the welfare of people.

Back to village issues: I have been hearing from locals who are not yet enjoying high speed broadband in the village. Renfrewshire Council are in discussion with both BT Openreach and the Scottish Government about filling the gaps in the services for the village. I will update you as soon as possible.

Finally, I know the police have fined a couple of speeding motorists in the village recently. I hope this will act as a deterrent for those who persist in driving through the village at dangerous speeds.

A reminder my surgery is at 6pm in the village hall on the 26th November.

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Howwood WI Tuesday 17 November

Whist Drive - Catered by Mrs J Burns Meetings in Howwood Village Hall at 7.30pm. Subscription £18 per annum

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Hobbit House by Helen Crichton of Bridge of Weir

Kilbarchan Beekeepers Association Ivy has been late to flower this year due to the good weather we have encountered as we entered Autumn. This is the last of the honeybees main source of pollen for the year, and the colonies are now full of the bees that will see the hive through the late Autumn and Winter months into spring.

Varroa feeding on a pupating honeybee Beekeepers have completed their Autumn treatment regimens for pest like the varroa. Like lice, fleas and ticks, varroa suck the blood off the honeybee in adult form, and also off the pupae whilst they are maturing in their sealed cells in the honeycomb. This activity weakens bee colonies as the bees that have pupated with varroa in Varroa feeding on an adult female worker honeybee their cells are likely to be weaker and may have developed deformed wings, meaning they cannot fly and cannot perform their role in the hive.

Beehives are now being prepared for overwintering, with some being loaded with a soft fondant feed to see the bees through until the Spring (important if they have had their honey taken away for extraction by the beekeeper).

Also insulation is added to the hives, especially in exposed sites or those with frost pockets. Securing the hives is also important, ensuring there is no risk of damage due to winter winds or from branches falling from trees etc.

Interested?

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

KBA hold evening meetings during Autumn & Winter months in The Steeple Halls, Kilbarchan between 7.30–10pm. You can come along and find out more about Honeybee husbandry and related topics, drop in to find out more at one of the meetings below.

Next Meeting - 10th November - Honey Show - Judge: Claud Wilson.

Bridge of Weir Hort Society Our October guest speaker was Robert McCaw, FCI Hort, who talked about plant hunters from the 18th - 21st Century. George Forrest was born in Falkirk in 1873 and apprenticed to a chemist where he learned how to dry, preserve and distil plant and herb specimens for healing and restorative purposes. Forrest then sailed to Australia where he panned for gold. On his return,10 years later, he worked as a clerk in the herbarium at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, before being recommended by Sir Isaac Bayley Balfour the then Regius Keeper to A K Bulley, the founder of Ness Botanic Gardens on the Wirral. Mr Bulley was looking for a resourceful character to head up an expedition to China. This was ideal for the rugged Scot. Forrest made 7 trips to China and Tibet, sending back 31,000 seed or plant samples. He endured jungles, swarming insects, poisonous plants, sheer cliffs and rickety bridges across deep gorges all to search for more and better plants. His last expedition to China in 1930, was to finish all the work he had begun and find all the plants he had missed. This trip proved to be his most productive, achieving all his goals, and finding even more new species. Two years later and still in China, with much of his work done, he died aged 59. Many plants are named after him including the ubiquitous Pieris formosa var. Forrestii which grows so enthusiastically in this area.

Joseph Rock, an Austrian-American, was an intrepid botanist of the 20th century. He resisted his father’s entreaties to join the priesthood and, at a young age, became a cabin steward, sailing to New York and Hawaii where he discovered his passion for plants. In 1920, Rock travelled to Indo-China on a seed collecting expedition. He was sent to find the tree which provides chaulmoogra oil, then a cure for children with leprosy. He also discovered that the tannin in Sweet Chestnut bark assisted in the leather tanning process. Rock was a self-taught man. When a boy, he had taught himself Chinese so it is not surprising that China was an area which fascinated him.

Sorbus ‘Joseph Rock’, which has yellow berries and is particularly colourful at this time of year, was named after him.

Scot Jamie Taggart of Lynn Botanic Gardens Cove is one of the 21st Century plant hunters. His exploits, as an adventurous explorer, are well-known to horticulturists. Jamie’s 2014 expedition to Vietnam, exploring this verdant region ended [to date] in his disappearance in a remote region of eternal fascination to plant hunters. It reminds us that, sadly, whilst plant hunting today can be just as exhilarating as it was for Forrest and Rock it remains just as dangerous.

Our next meeting will be on 12th November at 8pm in the Royal British Legion, BOW. Speaker: Louise Bustard, Curator, Education Glasgow Botanic Garden, talking about “Horticulture in Holland”.

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Brighter Bridge of Weir WE’VE HAD OUR CHIPS - By the time this issue of the Advertizer is available, Brighter Bridge of Weir will have had their third annual Fun Casino Night fund raiser.

Here’s hoping it was as successful as the previous years’ events. (If you were there, why not visit the group’s Facebook page or website and leave a comment?) They will also have attended the local ‘One World’ celebration to show their support and perhaps raise a little more funding.

Before all of that, the group had removed the summer flowers from the planters and barrier baskets throughout the village, and replaced them with winter-flowering pansies and spring bulbs. The pansies should brighten things up over the winter months and spring should be a riot: there are over 2,000 daffodil bulbs in the planters and baskets, and a further 2,000 spread randomly throughout the village.

Now the group is working on the next major event on the calendar. The group’s spokesperson is reluctant to mention the event by name as it’s still some weeks away, but concedes that one of the characters associated with the occasion is a jolly chap with a white beard and a red suit. Brighter Bridge of Weir’s role in the event involves setting up lighting displays along Main Street to augment the Community Council’s lights at Livery Walk.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Soc Kilmacolm Horticultural Society will hold their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 18th November at 7.30pm in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm. Following the business meeting and light refreshments, a film of the Chelsea Flower Show 2015 will be shown. Annual membership of the Society is £5, this includes free entry to the Flower Show. We hold Winter Lectures through October to March, a Coffee Morning in the Spring, and offer Outings to horticultural places of interest in the summer. Please come to hear more about us, on 18th November, or phone Jill Russell on 01505 872393 for membership.

So if you thought Brighter Bridge of Weir’s volunteers only came out in the spring and summer, think again! They may not be as visible during the winter months, but they’re still working away at making Bridge of Weir brighter.

Colourful Kilmacolm As all our planters were still full of colour well into October we decided to delay the change-over until as late as possible. The trick is to get the new plants in before the winter weather really sets in. Let’s hope our timing is right.

Last winter’s displays produced many complimentary remarks and it would have been easy to reproduce the planting schemes, however when the spring bulbs started to emerge earlier this year they had difficulty pushing up through the other plants. It was a situation we had foreseen and had thought we might remove a few plants in springtime to make room for the bulbs, but then, in the end, we hadn’t the heart! Gardeners will understand the dilemma. This, then, explains the planting schemes you can see now.

We hope there is enough to provide interest throughout the winter, but not so much that the bulbs will have to struggle.

While we have a few other little ideas to develop, we look forward to a quieter time before starting all over again.

If you are interested in gardening and have a little time to spare, do join us.

You can also support us as a ‘non-active’ member too. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can phone Peter (01505 872448) or Diane (01505 872611). There are also lots of photos on our website showing what we have done so far.

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

Wildlife News At last we are getting some sunshine but, as news that the first Bewick’s Swan has arrived in England 25 days early, does this mean that we are in for a bad winter? The Redwings have certainly arrived and their “seep seep” call can be heard at night time over the villages as they continue on their migration. The badgers have become a lot more active as they search for food to help lay down some winter fat reserves. Pepper, one of the cubs, in particular has taken to foraging in the afternoon. She is a lot smaller than the other cub, Salt, but appears to be in good health. Many folk think badgers hibernate, but this isn’t true and they will be active all winter although less so if the weather is bad. As we get ready for bonfire night please remember to check any leaf piles and bonfires for hedgehogs before lighting them. Hedgehogs are looking for nice cosy nests to sleep in through the winter and bonfires, unfortunately, meet their requirements. It’s also worth noting that if you see a

Langbank Camera Club The October print competition topic was “Scottish Castles”. We had a variety of images of Scottish castles but it was the old favourites that won on the night, and I’m talking about the castles here. The winning entry was submitted by Gary Ramanathan of his image of “Stalcaire” - Stalker Castle, Appin near Oban. A 15th century castle built by the Stewarts on what was the site of a 14th century fortress. Second place also went to Gary for his image of Edinburgh Castle. Third place was awarded to Derrick McPherson for his monochrome image of a cannon taken on the battlements of Stirling Castle - you can just see the

hedgehog out in the day then there is a problem. Often it will be an autumn juvenile trying to find food to help it put on weight. More often than not these individuals are too small to survive hibernation and will often die as they attempt to do so. If you find one please put it in a box with some newspaper and an old jumper and phone or take it to Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue. They will look after it during the winter and can be contacted on 01505 502415.

Remember hedgehogs cannot tolerate milk so please do not give them any as it can make them ill.

Events - Swan Chat 28 Nov, Bird Ringing 29 Nov There are two opportunities to get up close to wildlife in November. Down at Castle Semple why not join me to find out more about the swans as the monthly winter Swan Chats return. This informal session takes place on Saturday 28th November at the entrance to the car park. You can pop along at any time from 2pm-3pm to find out more about them. On Sunday 29th November, at Muirshiel Visitor Centre, there will be a bird ringing demonstration. This will give you the chance to see some of the smaller birds in the hand as mist nets are deployed to catch them. Why not come along to find out about why they are caught and what we can learn from their movements. The session takes place from 11am-3pm and you can pop along at any time. There is no need to book for either event.

More Info…

Details can be found on the Parks website page www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk or by emailing wow@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. Footage can be viewed on the Park’s Youtube channel or on the WoW Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/ WindowsonwildlifeatClydeMuirshiel. Talks to groups can be arranged if you are interested in finding out more about your furry and feathered neighbours.

Wallace monument in the background between the merlons.

At the club meeting a presentation was given on background and perspective. This demonstrated how you can change the look and feel of your photographs by considering the background as much as the primary subject matter, using techniques to make the image stand out. The lecture was well received and provided lively discussion on the topic.

At next month’s main meeting (November 9th) we will be discussing photo file management. This will include demonstrations of backup and photo management (organiser) tools etc. And will be followed up with a Q&A session to discuss any points or queries raised by members and guests.

The theme for the November (23rd) Projected Digital Image (PDI) evening will be an open competition which will allow members free rein on image selection for the big screen. We will also be doing a workshop on portraits and still life that evening. The PDI meeting is a forum for members to get constructive feedback on submitted images.

The main November meeting will be held as usual on the second Monday of the month, 9th November, with the PDI meeting held two weeks later on Monday 23rd November. The print competition topic for November is “Slooow Shutter speed Photography” - images taken with an exposure in excess of 5 seconds.

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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SANTA’S GROTTO

The nights are drawing in and there’s a definite nip in the air, just the time to get out and about in the woods and blow away those cobwebs! The trees have mostly dropped their foliage now so this is the best time to come and kick around piles of leaves under the trees.

David our head gardener has been working hard and even in the winter the gardens are a lovely place for a walk. We will be open every day except Christmas Day and New Years Day over winter. The waterfalls often look particularly fine at this time of year – especially if we have snow.

Half price winter membership is still available, Just £33 for a family (Two Adults and children) or Grandparent (Two grandparents and up to four grandchildren) and £15 for a single ticket. This is great value, valid until the end of March and only needs a few visits to pay for itself.

We are proud to announce that after a wonderful visit from Santa last year he is back again at Finlaystone, he will be visiting every weekend in December! Spaces for Craft Stalls are still available, and don’t forget our cut your own Christmas tree sales.

Follow the woodland trail to find Santa in his forest Grotto. Visit includes an individual present from Santa specific to each child and a festive arts and crafts session. 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd of December from 11pm to 4pm.

Advance booking is required for this popular event, tickets are available now and cost £12 per child (1 accompanying adult free) Call Norah on 01475 540505.

Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park Clyde Muirshiel’s Branching Out to Shine at Scottish Parliament

Ride 63 Club News

Clyde Muirshiel’s hugely successful mental health woodland activity programme, Branching Out, will be featured in a Scottish Natural Heritage Parliamentary Reception on Thur 12 Nov. The Reception will showcase good practice of how the outdoors and access to it can aid recovery and provide experience and opportunities to all. Also part of our display will be ‘Twiglets’ a programme where young adults with disabilities can enjoy the outdoors through activities such as bushcraft, sailing and kayaking.

See facebook for details of what is going on. Recent activity, apart from ‘Rides’ includes Cycle Ride Leader and Adaptive Cycle Ride Leader training. The group meet on the last Thursday of the month and a new time of fortnightly on a Sunday morning. Full details on Ride63 facebook.

Email the Secretary at ridesixtythree@gmail.com to become a member or email the Park at routes@clydemuirshiel.co.uk for more information.

Stargazing Returns to Muirshiel Centre

It’s out now! Grab yourself a copy of our popular events guide in our Visitor Centres.

After some fantastic images of the aurora borealis shared on our facebook page (www.facebook.com/ClydeMuirshielRegionalPark) last month we are really looking forward to the return of Muirshiel Country Park’s Stargazing evenings! The next date at the unique dark sky location, and last opportunity in 2015, is Fri 20 Nov (Please note this date is instead of the December date in our What’s On).

New What’s On!

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

Pedal the Park 2016 – Sun 24 Apr The popular cycling event is back!!! This year we will have 2 exciting sportive options Classic 75km and a Challenging 100km! Also returning will be hand cycle ride and mountain bike ride. Put Sun 24 Apr in your diary now and check Ride 63’s facebook page for when entry goes live soon!

Outdoor Activity Courses Our Outdoor Activity team don’t get much rest over the winter period as there are still lots of courses to run! Try out powerboating or one of our land based activities such as archery or biking. See dates online.

Gift vouchers are also available from the Castle Semple Shop for those planning ahead to Xmas!

Regular Events Mondays (but not public holidays)

Saturdays

Lochwinnoch Community Walks meet 10.30 hrs at The Cross, Lochwinnoch.

Greenock Cut Conservation Volunteers, Adult group, 10.30 – 14.30 hrs.

Duke of Edinburgh Programmes at Clyde Muirshiel

Weekly Volunteer Groups

Sundays

The Park has expanded our range of expeditions and skills to suit Duke of Edinburgh students of all abilities. Park Special School students East Ayrshire recently completed their Bronze overnight expedition canoeing around Loch Lomond with the support and guidance of Clyde Muirshiel Outdoor Activity Instructors. Get in touch with dofe@clydemuirshiel.co.uk if you know of a group of 14-24 yr olds who could benefit from a tailored programme!

Newcomers always welcome!

Castle Semple Young Volunteers, 12-18 yr olds, 10.00 – 12.00 hrs

Thursdays Castle Semple Conservation Volunteers, Adult group, from 12.30 – 15.30 hrs.

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

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The past month has seen the influx of the winter migratory birds arriving, with some whooper swans being among the first spotted. Other wildlife highlights included an Osprey fishing in the Aird Meadow Loch, two Kingfisher and two Mandarin Ducks. Our work on the reserve in October centred around the clearing of the cut vegetation on the Aird meadow, as well as some maintenance work being carried out on the channel waterways in front of the Visitor Centre.

There are a number of exciting events at the Reserve this November. On Saturday 7th, Castle Semple will host a swan ringing event ran by the RSPB Lochwinnoch Wildlife Explorers Group.

This is a great chance to enthuse the younger members of your family in nature. As well as learning something, they’ll have a great time doing it!

Last but by no means least, we will be holding a “Birds for Beginners” event on Saturday 28th. If you have an interest in birds but have no idea where to start, this event would be ideal. Come along to see and learn more about the common garden birds, and with a little bit of luck, some rare ones too.

For more details or to book on an event, please contact us at: 01505 842 663 or email: lochwinnoch@ rspb.org.uk

Gryffe Camera Club Gryffe Camera Club began our new session with a welcome members night, including a presentation on how to prepare mounts for our print competitions. Also 5 workshops were set up, led by club members, to run throughout the year. They are beginners, night photography, audio visual, bird photography and techniques.

In mid September we were entertained by Andy Stark with his presentation on “My life as a professional photographer”.

Our first league competition of the year was at the end of the month and was judged by members.

The digital A section was won by George Kennedy with “Grub’s Up”, and the digital B section was Grub’s Up won by Malcolm Martin with “Hanging On” Full results can be found on the Gryffe Camera Club website. www.gryffecameraclub.co.uk During October we critiqued the annual photographic competition between local Primary schools giving advice and hints to the children, hopefully to encourage them in their future photography.

Hanging On

We have a busy November Programme of meetings, details of which can be found on: www.gryffecameraclub.co.uk

Kilmacolm Camera Club We’ve had an interesting set of evenings to kick off the 2015/16 season. As usual on the first night, members had the chance to show what they’ve been photographing over the summer. There was a varied selection of images taken all over the world (and a varied selection of envious glances!).

We also had a terrific show from Kirk Norbury. This included some excellent landscape images and awesome night skies. He also demonstrated his ingenious method of taking time-lapse photography, and the results were stunning.

Our first internal competition of the season was our Summer Assignment, with the subject being “Weather”. Sunny shots were hard to come by, needless to say! Winners were Bill Ham, for the best aggregate score, and David Addison, with the best individual image, “Overcast Morning” (shown here).

Still feeling sorry that you did not capture October’s misty autumn landscapes? Come along and we’ll show you how it’s done (or perhaps you can show us!).

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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Paisley Colour Photography Club

PHOTOGRAPHY HINTS & TIPS

With The Studio Bridge Of Weir

LENSES - and the art of ZOOMING The lens is the all important bit of glass in the front of the camera that lets in the light and allows you to choose your subject matter by zooming in or out or by getting closer or further away from your subject.

Competition for the Bowie Trophies Recently at the McMaster Centre PCPC’s first competition of the 20152016 session took place. The competition was for the Bowie Trophies and entries for the competition consisted of two images, one botanical and one zoological, judged as a set.

Inverkip photographer Bill Clark, this year’s judge, delivered a considered and constructive assessment of all 82 images in the competition. Bill praised images for their story and admired the skill required to locate and isolate subjects for maximum impact.

NOTE - KEEP IT CLEAN - use lens cleaning tissues, not kitchen roll, you will scratch the lens.

In many cameras you can ZOOM IN to bring things closer and make them appear bigger. This is useful to pick out a subject from the background to make the image more interesting. It is also ideal if you cannot get close to the subject.

Sweet Chestnut

Grey Heron with Fish

McKinders Eagle Owl

This year the Ila Bowie Trophy for the best set by a non-advanced member was awarded to Ken McArthur for his set “Sweet Chestnut” and “McKinders Eagle Owl”. Bill chose “Grey Heron with Fish” as the best image by a non-advanced member.

In the advanced section Bill explained how difficult it was to choose between sets of images of such high quality. He awarded fourth place to Pauline Smith for “Sycamore in Spring”3 and her stunning macro shot “Pine Sawfly Larva Moulting”5.

48mm Focal Length

300mm Focal Length

You can also ZOOM OUT to show much more of a scene. This is ideal for landscapes and group photos.

Choose the appropriate setting for the subject – wide angle settings will distort your image if you try to use it for close ups or portraits. Zooming in too close can mean you crop the tops of people’s heads or feet off.

If you have an SLR camera you have the ability to change lenses and be able to directly see the effect of each lens.

You can buy a huge variety of lenses for an SLR from extreme wide angle (Fish Eye) lenses to portrait lenses, macro lenses, and telephoto lenses.

The quality of the glass in the lens will define how sharp the images are, how large and how heavy they are and also how expensive they are.

1

2

3

4

5

Bill placed Fiona McEwan third for “Wild Goat Giving Birth”2 and her well-seen pattern image “Sphagnum Moss Detail”1 which he also judged to be the best botanical image in the competition. Bill selected “Cuckoo with caterpillar”4 by Mike Cruise as the best zoological image in the competition.

The more you zoom in on your lens the more likely you are to get camera shake. The longest lenses are best used with the aid of a tripod or monopod to steady them and keep your images sharp.

Every Month The STUDIO – Bridge of Weir (07904 419578) will bring you hints and tips to improve your photography - regardless of what kind of camera you have.

More detail on each tip can be found on the Advertizer web page http://www.advertizer.co.uk/blog

Brookfield Gardening Club The nights are drawing in, the leaves are changing and the smoke from home fires are starting to rise above the rooftops of Brookfield once again.

As we head towards winter, the BGC and some kind villagers worked hard to prune and weed the Millennium Garden at the top of Victoria Road. New bulbs have also been planted which we look forward to seeing in Spring.

Grateful thanks to all who participated and the garden is now looking nice and tidy, ready for whatever winter brings.

Red Campion

Blue Tit on Catkin

Runner up this year was Jim Caldwell with “Red Campion” and “Blue Tit on Catkin”. The judge praised the skilled use of depth of field to draw attention to the tiny hairs on the stem of the campion and the beautiful light on the eye of the blue tit.

Top 10 jobs for november 1 Clear up fallen leaves - especially from lawns, ponds and beds

7 Insulate outdoor containers from frost - bubblewrap works well

2 Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging

8 Stop winter moth damage to fruit trees using grease bands around the trunks

3 Plant tulip bulbs for a spring display next year 4 Prune roses to prevent wind-rock 5 Plant out winter bedding 6 Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem

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9 Put out bird food to encourage winter birds into the garden 10 Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed - to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting

Meadowsweet in Rosebay Willow Herb

Kingfisher Emerging from Water

Bill awarded first place to Mike Cruise who wins the Bowie Trophy 2015 with his set “Meadowsweet in Rosebay Willow Herb” and “Kingfisher Emerging from Water”. The judge particularly admired Mike’s skill in evoking the mood of summer in his richly coloured “Meadowsweet in Rosebay Willow Herb”.

In “Kingfisher Emerging from Water” Bill concluded that Mike’s choice of shutter speed was key to the success of this image where the wings of the kingfisher record movement while the body of the bird remains pin sharp.

Club meetings continue on Thursday evenings with a variety of lectures and competitions. Visitors are always welcome. For more details please visit: www.paisleycolour.co.uk.

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St Columba’s School Invitation to the Science Building Open Evening

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

Exactly fifty years after its original opening, we will be marking the completion of the modernisation of our Science building with a special Open Evening on Wednesday 25th November from 6pm – 7.30pm. We look forward to showing families and friends of St Columba’s School what a great transformation has been achieved over the summer; this will be a fun and informative event where you can tour the building at your leisure and observe pupils and staff demonstrating experiments in the Chemistry, Physics and Biology laboratories. Refreshments will be served. If you would like to come please contact Catherine Mulgrew by 9th November – cmulgrew@st-columbas.org or 01505 874772.

Open Week and Taster Visits We warmly invite all parents who are considering to send their child to St Columba’s to our Open Week from 9th to 13th November. This is the ideal opportunity to see what St Columba’s has to offer, providing an all-through education with a wide range of opportunities for your child, with wrap-around care in Junior School from age 3. To find out more and reserve your place please go to st-columbas.org or call 01505 872238. If you are unable to visit us during Open Week you may like to come and see us on a taster day, which can be arranged throughout the year.

Senior Hockey & Rugby Italy Tour In October, the St Columba’s hockey and rugby teams enjoyed a memorable trip of sport, culture and bonding in Italy. Between matches there was time to enjoy the beautiful sights of Venice, and matches were played in Padua, Milan and Botticino.

Paris Trip Senior I pupils thoroughly enjoyed their trip to Paris at the beginning of the October break. Their visit took them to famous sights like the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Chateau Versailles, but there was also time to visit the Hard Rock Café and have fun at Disneyland.

Family Treasure Hunt A huge thank you to everyone who came out and took part in our Family Treasure Hunt. We thoroughly enjoyed the day and hope that it helped all the families who attended to meet other families and enjoy a day out around the beautiful village of Kilmacolm. Congratulations to our winning team, Mabel’s Muppets, who triumphed after the Tie Breaker question.

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Thursday Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

St Columba Playgroup

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Friday Langbank Under 3’s

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

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

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Greenock and District Scouts Chief Scout Gold Celebrations At Quarriers Three Scouts from 45th Quarriers were presented with their Chief Scout Gold Awards

by District Commissioner Peter Bennett recently.

Struan McCamley, Michael McGeoch and Rowan Seel earned the high award after three years of effort at Scouts that has included regularly attending this year’s Zodiac camps where they demonstrated their scouting skills.

Along with their regular commitment to scouting, the three have taken part in new activities including climbing, archery, geocaching, cycling and watersports.

They celebrated their award by inviting the District Commissioner to a special dinner cooked by all the 45th Scouts.

The Chief Scout Gold Award is the highest award available to scouts and is earned after completing eight challenge badges.

Kilmacolm Cubs Have Been ACES In Learning About Healthy Eating The 42nd group welcomed Margaret Williams and Ann Cameron from the Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership’s Active Children Eating Smart (ACES) scheme. The ladies spoke to the youngsters about the healthy eating plate and which food groups were best to eat and in what quantity.

The Cubs then played a game where they had to run around the hall and hand items of food printed on cards to the correct group they belonged to, such as carbohydrates, sugars, protein or dairy. They found out that a lot of foods come into more than one category, which is important when you are choosing how much of each thing to eat.

The ACES team are keen to speak to as many Beaver and Cub Groups in Inverclyde as possible and their free talk covers the badge work about healthy eating.

More information about ACES is available from www.inverclydeleisure.com/enterprise/ Wellbeing or by e-mailing Margaret Williams on margaret.williams5@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

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Houston Primary School

Kilmacolm Primary

Nursery - Enjoyed a visit from Zoolab. They learned about different creatures including:- tarantula, millipede, African snail, snake, hermit crab and fat Bob the cockroach, who eats everything, even walls!

We celebrated the official launch of our new House System recently.

Invited guests Cllr Lauchlan, Cllr Wilson and Cllr McCabe came along to join in the fun!

P1 - Received tennis coaching from Strathgryffe Tennis Club. They also began purposeful play with the help from parents to work on their ‘Seaside’ play activities.

P2 - had an amazing trip to Lunderston Bay, where they found jellyfish, hermit crabs and even some starfish! They have also been busy learning about Shabbat and had a party to celebrate by tasting Kosher food and singing traditional Jewish songs.

Shalom Shabbat!

The children were entertained by pipers from St Columba’s school, highland dancers (Samantha Parker P4 and Ashleigh Parker P3) and piper Ewan Simpson P5. The children earned house points throughout the day by participating in Scottish themed activities. P1-4 enjoyed a mini Highland Games event and P5-7 loved the mini Ceilidh.

The new Scottish themed house names were voted for by the children....Highland Cows, Thistle, Haggis and Tartan. The children came dressed in their house colours or in tartan. The whole event was organised by the House Captains (Megan Craig, Samantha Todd, Finn Jobson, Stephen Nawrath) and the Vice-House Captains (Keir Houston, Wladek Zawadski, Samuel Beckett, Fraser Craig).

P3 - have been creating autumn tree pictures this term and written descriptive poems about autumn to display alongside their colourful artwork.

P4 - have been learning about mini beasts. As part of a homework challenge they made a mini beast model and created a display outside the classroom which looks absolutely fantastic.

P5 - Every Monday, Primary 1-7 pupils have been working with children from different stages in Vertical Learning groups. They have been participating eagerly in a wide range of activities including digital learning, pupil voice, citizenship, health and wellbeing and forest education.

P6 - had the honour of going swimming at the ON–X. They have been learning the front crawl, diving and swimming to the deep end of the pool.

They also prepared a presentation about French food and eating out to their peers.

P7 - have had a fun few weeks with Mr Heaney, but sadly they had to say farewell as he took up his new permanent post. This term they have been learning about Natural Disasters and made giant informative posters for all to read.

Sports Clubs - P6 & P7 girls have been developing their passing, defending and shooting skills for netball and are looking forward to playing matches.

Total Soccer has resumed, as well as Mr Milligan’s lunchtime football club.

There is also going to be a badminton club starting.

Gardening Club - put on a fabulous PowerPoint presentation for the whole school at the Harvest assembly, showing all of the wonderful fresh produce they have grown this year. The orchard is full of apples, pears, plums and cherries, however some people have been picking the young fruit before they are ready, which is very sad.

St Columba Church Playgroup & Toddlers We celebrated this glorious Autumn by working on a group tree activity at Playgroup. There were lots of willing helpers to tape together our large tree and then paint it in all sorts of Autumn colours. The next task was to stick on the leaves we had collected, which was quite tricky but we displayed good teamwork to get the job done.

This was a great opportunity for the children to work together and then show their efforts to their parents at collection time. Well done! For more information about Playgroup, please contact our Playgroup secretary Emma at emma@kehoes.com.

A big thanks to all those who contributed to our recent Ragbag collection and Nearly New Sale, both of which helped raised vital funds for the group.

We are also delighted to have been awarded a grant of £1290 by the Bank of Scotland Foundation to spend on various consumables and some new equipment.

For more information regarding our Baby & Toddler group, please contact our Toddlers secretary Beth at thebbles@hotmail.com.

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Last month we raised a fabulous £1000 for school funds at our Welly Waddle. Thanks to all who donated and helped on the day.

Our P3/2 & P3 classes were learning about Pirates in their classes last term. To round off their topic they held a Pirate Assembly and party which was very exciting. Parents enjoyed a treasure hunt, walking the plank The boys and girls were also visited

by Captain Jack who entertained them with stories of a pirate’s life and tales of the high seas.

As we looked towards our decant to St Stephen’s in Port Glasgow, to allow for our school refurbishment, we held Farewell Discos, organised and funded by our hard working PTF Committee.

Harvest Assembly - was led by Fraser Donaldson & Andrew McAlees from Elim Church. Fraser manages Inverclyde Foodbank and all donations from our very kind parents and children helped this very worthwhile cause. This year’s offering was particularly generous and Fraser was delighted with our response. Our thanks go to Fraser & Andrew who have been a fabulous support over the last few weeks. It’s always a pleasure to welcome them to our school.

Registering your child for primary education Entry to primary schools is on a once-a-year basis at the start of the new session in August each year. Registration takes place in mid January in your catchment school.

You will need your child’s original birth certificate, and proof of residence, to register them for school.

Adverts appear in nurseries, schools and newspapers in early January providing details on how to register your child.

You can register your child at only one school, either the denominational or non-denominational school in your catchment area.

Renfrewshire If you are unsure which school you should register at, please call 0300 300 0170 for advice. Or visit the website at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

Inverclyde Booklets providing information for parents on placing request procedures may be obtained from any school or from The Customer Service Centre, Municipal Buildings, Clyde Square, Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 1LY. Telephone No: 01475 717171. Opening hours Monday to Thursday 8.45 am – 4.30 pm, Friday 8.45 am – 3.45 pm. More information available from www.inverclyde.gov.uk.

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Kilmacolm Nursery Sponsored Walk Well done to all the boys and girls at Kilmacolm Nursery Class who have taken part in a sponsored walk around the school grounds to raise money for the nursery funds.

The children were encouraged to dress up in their fancy dress costumes and took part in singing all their favourite nursery songs.

Altogether, we raised a little over £300 which will go towards buying new resources and equipment.

Farewell Party All the children came together on the last day before the October holidays to wave goodbye to the nursery before we decant into our temporary nursery for the schools refurbishment.

The children enjoyed dressing up in their best clothes, playing party games, dancing to their favourite music and had some special treats for snack! We are looking forward to moving into our new accommodation as well as watching the progress of the school as it becomes a construction site.

Gryffe High School Gryffestyles Week Gryffe High pupils and staff set aside a week to promote a healthy lifestyle. Apart from normal lessons, pupils took part in morning, lunchtime and after school sporting sessions. All departments like to contribute to the week in some way.

Science encouraged staff to come along and get a blood pressure check, Modern Languages took part in European Day of Languages, the Fairtrade committee made and served healthy fruit smoothies and every first year pupil took part in a Health Day.

Youth Speech Competition Mearns Castle Victory Six teams from schools in East Renfrewshire recently took part in an Association of Speakers Clubs public speaking competition organised by Renfrew Speakers Club at St Luke’s High School.

The teams included Woodfarm High School (two teams), Williamwood High School and St Ninian’s High School.

The winning team was Mearns Castle High School and they are shown in the photograph (below left) from left to right: Emma Stewart, who carried out their Vote of Thanks, Main Speaker Kirsten West and their Chairperson Iona Gibson.

The Runners Up was a team from St Luke’s High School and they are shown in the photograph (below right) from left to right: Orla McEntee, who carried out their Vote of Thanks, Main Speaker Rhiannon Rowley and their Chairperson Angela Carswell.

The week finished with another successful 3k Fun Run day. This involved all year groups as well as the associated Primary Schools. Mr Gerard O’Hare who is the Faculty Head of Health and Wellbeing said, ‘With all seasons rolled into one day, some pupils basked in sunshine while others finished their race in torrential rain.

Both teams chose to speak on the topic: Do we really need the Royal Family and associated aristocracy, or are they purely an anachronism?

The teams were given two other Topics to choose from: Celebrities seem to be mainly people famous for their face lifts or weight loss-are there no worthwhile role models who might help to inspire young people? And –Are Food Banks a necessary evil in today’s society?

The two teams will go forward to a Grand Final Competition in the Normandy Hotel on Wednesday 25 November to battle it out against the winners and runners up from schools in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

Over 800 runners participated in the day led by PE staff with the excellent support of the Sports Leader class. Pupils came well prepared with a fantastic range of costumes on display! Steven Thompson, St Mirren’s star striker, former Scotland internationalist and ex-Gryffe pupil gave his annual support to our event as he cheered on S1 runners and presented medals at the end of their race.

The Chief Judge Archie Anderson, President of Renfrew Speakers Club spoke highly on the standard of speaking achieved by the youngsters.

Each of the Competition Contestants was awarded an Association of Speakers Clubs Certificate of Achievement, a useful addition for their future CVs.

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Huge thanks to Steven for his continued support. Also thanks to all runners - pupils and staff!’

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Duchal Nursery School

Abbey Nursery

We are lucky to have our very own native speaking French teacher Madame Camelford who visits each week to introduce the children to a new language. Nursery years are an ideal time for children to pick up foreign language skills as young children are better at imitating sounds. Language learning develops a number of skills and the earlier a second language is learnt the better. Just before the break she introduced the younger children to French with a traditional breakfast of “chocolat chaud et croissants” (a very messy morning!!) so they will be already to start French after the holidays.

Apologies to readers for not having updated you on activities at the nursery recently, but things have been very exciting and time has just flown by.

Thursdays have become our Active Start days at Duchal. The Active Start programme is designed to introduce individual skills in a variety of activities that help develop hand-eye co-ordination, cooperation skills, spatial awareness and social skills. The children really look forward to it.

Duchal is a parent co-operative run nursery allowing parents to be involved in the care of their preschooler. Contact Head Teacher Jean McCarthy on: Tel. 01505 874358. Also visit our website at: www. duchal.com and Facebook page for further information.

Firstly, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all the parents who came along to our ‘Listening to Learn’ evening and hope you found the presentations informative as well as giving us all the opportunity to exchange ideas.

Over the coming months we have lots of new opportunities for learning within the nursery including ‘Colourstrings’ music classes; Active Kids sports coaching; French lessons and Natural Discovery in the local woods. We have also hired the Scout Hall twice a week to give all children the opportunity for extended play activities which work better in a large clear space.

The Busy Bunnies have been visiting the Scout Hall for large physical play such as Basketball and large music activities such as ring games.

They have also been taking their learning outdoors and experimenting in the mud kitchen and going on Bug Hunts. The children have surprised us with their problem solving skills when trying to reach the apples in our apple tree - many successfully!

In the Grasshoppers playroom the children are just loving the French topic and been constructing their own Eiffel Tower through junk models, learning colours and creating flags and using ICT to explore the wider world.

On Monday we held our first (monthly) French language day, with children dressing up for the occasion and bringing in items to share with their friends. Just now we are focusing on simple greetings (hello, goodbye) and personal details (name and age) and will move on with new challenges each month. .

Over the past month our Little Ladybirds have enjoyed exploring with our new discovery cubes which are textured and have an opening that the children can put their hands inside.

We have been hiding different items inside the cubes for the children to discover and this has been a great opportunity for creative play and extended vocabulary. This follows on from an earlier ‘posting’ experience in the room with cardboard boxes – how great that fun can be so simple!!

On Saturday 28 November from 10am – 12.20pm we will be hosting a Christmas Fayre at the Nursery and warmly invite families and friends from the village. We promise lots of wonderful, festive stalls, great baking, a Christmas Grotto and lots of children’s activities so please put this important date in your diary.

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St Columba School Hockey Team

Classics at Castle Semple Car Show

Buck Off Cancer

With marvellous sunny Autumnal weather, the fifth Classics at Castle Semple car show at Lochwinnoch, couldn’t have been better.

Organiser Jane Fawcett said “ This year was the best yet. The weather behaved, the cars poured in as did the public to enjoy the free show at this incredibly scenic site on the shores of Castle Semple Loch. We managed to squeeze in a few extras which included some classic bikes and a tractor driven from Kilbarchan by my colleague! What a laugh, seeing him bounce along to work that day!

I reckon we had over 1000 people visit the loch that day and Lochwinnoch streets and shops were busy with the overspill. So many folks with cameras getting arty shots and everyone grinning. What a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. Lets just hope next year is even better! It’ll be held on Sunday 23 October 2016 – so get it in your diary now! Many thanks to all who brought their beloved cars – I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Castle Semple Sailing Club Ian Brown Cup Sunday 13 September

Delighted to report that Team Gryffeside are having a phenomenally successful fundraising year thanks to the generous support of so many people. Our latest event was our auction which raised £1,500. This puts us well on track to end the year on our target of £25,000. In fact we are keeping everything crossed that we c o u l d s m a s h this as we are in the process of putting together a Buck Off Cancer Calendar for 2016. Boy did we have fun photographing that! Below is a taster! Please follow Gryffeside Livery on Facebook to see how our fundraising is getting on and for details on how you can get your hands on one of our calendars.

Every single penny raised goes to Cancer Research UK.

New Opening Hours at Birkmyre Park Fitness Gym Tried out our new TechnoGym equipment? What you waiting for?

After the recent refurbishment we have extended the opening times to allow greater access to help you reach your goals.

After the postponement flag was raised at about 10.15 due to a distinct lack of wind and various people had resorted to grass cutting again - we are going to have the best manicured field in Lochwinnoch at this rate! - by around 10.45 the wind had picked up enough for the flag to come down and a rush to get boats in the water in time for the 11am start.

Not that many takers but we managed 7 boats - 4 GPs, Xenon, “Mighty” Vision, Solo and N12. A fair amount of boat swapping resulted in 11 helms registered for the the 5 races - including for one race a lady helm - Katy Hall sailing with her father in a GP who managed to go from last to first position even after having done turns - very well done Katy - I know it was hard for Commodore Arthur Logan to admit he had been pipped to the post by a female - and in a GP at that! Jon Hasler was recorded as the person having sailed in the most number of boats, but he should have stuck to Plan A and stayed with Peter Collings.

The wind managed to stay - just about for the 5 races, with 2 races before an excellent lunch and a further 3 races in the afternoon. A dull day for people in the rescue boat as the wind was not enough to cause any trouble, but the sun shone nearly all day which was a pleasant surprise after Saturday’s damp encounter.

Thanks to everyone who so willingly took turns in the rescue boat, to the race officer and various assistants and everyone who helped in the kitchen.

The final results were: 1st - Graeme and Katy Hall (GP14) 2nd - Peter Collings (with various crew) (GP14) 3rd - Arthur and Fiona Logan (GP14) Many thanks to our sponsor Ian Brown Motors For more info see www.castlesemplesc. co.uk

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Brookfield Curling Club

Kilmacolm Tennis Club 1 Championships

Why not fill up those long winter evenings with a new sport or revive old skills? Interested in taking up Curling? All standards welcome.

For information, telephone 01505 614080.

We saw over six hours of tennis entertainment served up – most of them featuring Liz Reid.

She just came up short at the final hurdle in her valiant attempt to pull off a triple crown of final victories – but after seven tough sets she was still up and on court with the other volunteers to help with the Junior Social on Sunday morning.

Saturday Sweep Curling

Liz won her first ever Kilmacolm Ladies Singles title, as well as the Ladies Doubles with Val Lawrence. Marian Wardell was runner up in both singles and (with Gillian Finch) doubles. Another lovely match saw Connie Reid win the girls under 14 match with some super tennis from both her and Maddy Brooksbank. Three Cups for the Reid girls….

Whether you’re a curling know-it-all or a novice, come on down to our Saturday Sweep Sessions at intu Braehead!

Every Saturday until 2 April 2016. From 11.45am - 2.15pm at intu Braehead, Renfrew. Price: £10 in advance and online only. £15 on the day, subject to availability. Ticket includes introduction to curling, warm up and game.

Please bring a warm jumper, clean pair of trainers and a sense of fun!

The curling rink is located on the upper mall of Braehead Shopping Centre between McDonald’s & Pizza Hut. Open to all standard of curlers from beginners up to expert level.

Houston United

We are looking for new players to come along and tryout for our team. Training sessions are Wednesday and Thursday evenings at the On-X sports centre in Linwood from 7pm until 8pm every week. If you are interested, please call Colin on 07989 987312.

The Wilson boys 3 also came away with three titles. Ben won the under 17 singles against Robbie Murdoch, and young Alexander managed to pull his uncle Kenny through to the men’s doubles title despite a cracking effort from opponents Joe O’Donnell and Sandy (no relation) Wilson. Alexander Wilson was in searingly good form and also secured the Mens’ Singles title for the second year in a row, defeating former champion Campbell McCulloch in the process.

2

Sandy Wilson’s compensation for the pain of his Gents Doubles defeat came in partnership with Val Lawrence in the mixed doubles – they just had enough to edge out Joseph Reid and an understandably flagging Liz in a really competitive mixed doubles final. The quality and 5 competition were 4 intense throughout.

Football Training

Tuesday & Thursday nights at Johnstone High School astro between 6pm and 9pm - football training for players of all age groups & abilities.

For further details please contact Ali McMaster on 07775 578795, email Glentyanthistlefc@gmail.com or visit our website on www.glentyanthistle. co.uk

Possibly the other match of the day was a two hour epic in the Senior Ladies doubles. Jan Torrance and Isobel Evans edged past Pat Erasmus and Sandra Winter to get their names on the Shield.

The Boys Under 14 singles, saw Alexander Davies triumph over Keir McNair, bringing to an end a losing streak of seven successive losses in finals for the Davies family.

6

Memberships are still available at discounted rates for the club’s 125th anniversary. Email kilmacolmtennis@ googlemail.com or phone 07765 007798 for more information.

Tickets for the Awards Dinner and Ceilidh (to be held at Kilmacolm Golf Club on Saturday November 14th) are available from any member of the committee.

7

9

8

Photos - From top to bottom 1 - Boys Under 14 Singles – The Janette Dunsmore Trophy - Winner Alexander Davies on left and Runner Up Keir McNair, with Janette Dunsmore; 2 - Ladies Singles – Winner Liz Reid on left and Runner Up Marian Wardell; 3 - Gents Doubles – Winners Ken & Alexander Wilson on right and Runners up Joe O’Donnell & Sandy Wilson; 4 - Girls Singles – Winner Connie Reid and Runner up Maddy Brooksbank; 5 - Ladies Senior Doubles – Winners Jan Torrance & Isobel Evans; 6 - Ladies Doubles – Winners Val Lawrence & Liz Reid on right, and Runners up Marian Wardell and Gillian Finch; 7 - Gents Singles – Winner Alexander Wilson on right and Runner up Campbell McCulloch; 8 - Boys Under 17 Singles – Winner Ben Wilson on right and Runner Up Robbie Murdoch; Picture 9 - Mixed Doubles – Winners Sandy Wilson and Val Lawrence

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november 2015

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Birkmyre Senior Rugby Club every

Monday

Kilbarchan Athletic Club On-X, Linwood, 7pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

5-a-side Football

Powerleague Paisley 6pm Tel: Jim on 01505 874215; or jimbretherton@aol.com

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

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 7.15pm

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club

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

The Shotokan Karate Club

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

Football Training

Johnstone High School 6pm-9pm Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details

every

Wednesday

Greenock Hockey Club

Inverclyde Academy, Greenock, 6.30pm-8pm Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005

Callanetics

B rookfield V illage H all , 5.15, 6.15 & 7.30pm

every Thursday

Kilbarchan Athletic Club On-X, Linwood, 7pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Kilmacolm Walkers

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm 10am David 01505 874192 kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

The Shotokan Karate Club Woodlands Primary. Linwood 7pm - 8pm & 8pm - 9pm www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

9

Football Training

Johnstone High School 6pm-9pm Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details

every

Friday

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

18 Movement (Tai Chi) Chi Kung

St Fillans Church Hall, Moss Rd, Kilmacolm 10.15am-11.15am Gentle, relaxing exercise class. 0141 954 2456.

every

Saturday

Adult Tap Lessons

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm. lunchtime.

Call Gail Ashley on 01475 531336 for details

every

Sunday

Birkmyre Rugby Club, Kilmacolm Youth Rugby Section 11am-1pm www.pitchero.com/clubs/birkmyre

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Well rugby season is here again and the Senior Birkmyre Bears have been up to much over the summer months. The team dedicated and applied themselves well to a 10 week intensive pre-season cross fit training programme. Highlights included flipping monster tyres, heavy logs and lots and lots of squats.

The team have been reenergised with a desire to promote the club and all that it stands for. There is a reason that Birkmyre wear a bear and it is becoming a bear that has meant so much too so many. The senior first XV have taken this message on to another level and are determined to provide the platform we need to enable the youth of Birkmyre, of which are incredibly proud to come through and shine as much as they have done in the youth leagues.

That being said we can only do so much as a small sleuth of bears.

We call on anyone interested in not only bettering themselves, but laying down a foundation for the youth of area to play the level of Rugby they deserve. New to the game or been away a while this is your opportunity to be part of the revolution, a stunning opportunity and build the local community a real rugby team.

All support is welcome and we would love to see everyone down on a Saturday afternoon to cheer on a new and improved Birkmyre Senior team. All home matches are played at Birkmyre park, Kilmacolm and dates are listed below. Our vibrant social calendar is also available to any and all spectators: Since this change in approach and attitude the net results have been huge and the benefits clearly been seen from a blistering start to the campaign. As such the seniors are currently unbeaten and go into the semi-final of their cup competition the Bowl. Great wins have already been enjoyed over local rivals: Greenock’s 2nd XV and Loch Lomond. As the team heads into the shorter days, training will continue to be on a Tuesday and Thursday respectively. Please feel free to contact James Halpin - 07912 575680 with any enquiries.

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton Club

Table Tennis

The new 80th Season is now underway and anyone wishing to join would be most welcome. Why not come along on Monday evening and see for yourself. We meet in the Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent from 7.30pm to 9pm. For more information, ring Anne, Sec., on 614895.

All welcome. Donation £2. Call Mark on 07968 052538.

Sporting Blog

Is it time to stop weighing yourself on the scales?

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to health and fitness is motivation, and there is no bigger motivational killer than the scales. The truth is, when it comes to hitting your goals, the scales are sometimes the worst measure of success you can use. No matter how hard you train, or how well you eat, the scales can’t measure some of the most important things when it comes to your body, health and wellbeing.

Scales can’t measure: • Fitness levels • Energy levels • Strength • Confidence • Sense of achievement • Happiness • Changes in body composition I have had clients who have completely transformed their body shape over a period of time, and yet the scales have showed no real difference. In some cases your body can be burning fat while the scales are not changing or even showing an increase! This can be hard for some people to comprehend as we have become so accustomed to stepping on to scales to measure changes. However, if you are training and eating right, an increase in your weight on the scales or no change does not necessarily mean you are gaining fat or not burning it. You are

Houston Village Hall on Monday nights from 7.30pm - 9.30pm.

by Lesley Handley

probably actually gaining and building lean muscle. And with muscle weighing in heavier than fat it will inevitably affect the results on your weight.

Due to this, I encourage many of my clients to use progress pictures or body measurements to measure their success.

When you start a new fitness programme, take photos of yourself and/or measurements and then repeat this each month. If you work hard, stay motivated and remain consistent with your training and nutrition, you will see positive changes in your body that the scales won’t necessarily show. Progress photos/measurements are more reliable as they physically show you the changes on each part of the body that might individually change. And as time goes on you will feel better showing off your before and after pictures than revealing how much weight you might have lost.

Lesley For more information on any aspect of fitness or nutrition contact me on 0773 627 4925, or email Lesley@fitsmartfitness.co.uk. For options for online personal training plans visit my website www.fitsmartfitness.co.uk.

22/10/2015 16:57:50

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

‘Buddy’ (Bud) Gibb,

by Russell & Julie Gibb from Houston, is sadly missed by everyone who knew him

Pet Blog

by PetVets

Fear of Fireworks At this time of year many of us are looking forward to the fun of bonfire night but for many of our pets the 5th of November is a particularly scary date due to the noise of fireworks. Noise phobias are relatively common and can make bonfire night a very frightening, stressful experience.

Signs to look out for include: • • • • • • • • •

Ears back Excessive panting and drooling in dogs Shaking Interacting less with owners and hiding away Barking excessively Toileting in the house Vertical scratch marking in cats Excessive grooming in cats Abnormal behaviours

If your pet has a problem with fireworks there are some things you can do to help them cope. These include: • Walk dogs before it starts to get dark then settle them in for the night. Keep all pets indoors once the fireworks start.

• Feed your pet before the fireworks begin as they may be too distressed to eat later.

• Provide a safe hiding place for your pet. Many cats will feel safer if they can hide in an elevated position.

• Turn on the TV or radio to provide background noise and close the curtains.

• Ensure the house and garden are secure as a very frightened animal may try to escape.

• Don’t leave your pet alone, they will feel more secure with familiar people present.

• Never punish your pet for expressions of fear such as toileting in the home or vocalising excessively.

• Try not to reward fearful behaviour with excessive attention. It is best to ignore fear related behaviours and provide gentle reassurance if your pet comes to you for comfort.

• It may help to distract your pet with games, training and treats.

There are also many products on the market designed to help pets cope with scary situations. These include Adaptil diffusers and collars for dogs and Feliway diffusers for cats which release calming pheromones, and products such as Zylkene and Calmex which help reduce anxiety. In some severe cases mild sedatives may be required for the night itself.

Your vet can advise you on the best products to help your pet. It is a good idea to discuss this with your vet well in advance of the event as many anxiety reducing products and techniques work best when started before the frightening noises begin.

In the long term if your pet has a severe fear of fireworks it may be beneficial to attend a behaviourist for a desensitisation program. This can take several weeks to months but can be very beneficial in dealing with noise phobias, making bonfire night a much less stressful occasion and also helping animals to cope with other noisy day to day events e.g. loud traffic or vacuum cleaners.

Dogs Unite Sunday 4th Oct was a successful day at Castle Semple.

We raised a total of £334.00.

Huge THANK YOU to all. We are hoping to hold other events in the future. If you would like to help please call 01505 705602.

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november 2015

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

Nala - a 2 year old female black short hair cat Nala is a lovely little cat who is now looking for a new home. Her previous owner said she would be ok living with children and other cats, but would prefer a home with no dogs. Her new home would need access to a garden as she is used to getting out to play.

Ollie - 5 year old black and white male short hair cat Ollie is a really nice wee lad that has had a hard time. Ollie will require a garden and possibly could be homed with older children and other pets.

Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341 Frankie - Age Unknown, Male Budgerigar.

Ref 299240 Frankie is a lovely wee chap who was found as a stray and is now at our centre looking for his forever home. He is a lovely little man that is looking for a quiet home with an owner that can give him a lot of love and affection.

Mrs Doubtfire - Age Unknown, Female Hamster. Ref 299938 Mrs Doubtfire arrived after her owner could no longer care for her and is now looking for her forever home.

She enjoys being handled and should make a fantastic addition to her new home.

‘Dogalogue’ Gifts View our diverse collection of cards and wrapping paper and make this Christmas extra special.

Browse our extended range of gifts where you are sure to find the perfect present. Discover our new selection of clothing and show your support for Guide Dogs. Every time you make a purchase from the Dogalogue you’ll be helping us to transform the lives of blind and partially sighted people across the UK.

ALL profits go directly to Guide Dogs.

Visit the website at www.dogalogue.

Come and do your Christmas shopping early!

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

Oakley - a 1-2 year old male Crossbreed.

Oakley loves to play football and be on the go all the time. He is a huge fan of ice cubes! Oakley can live with children who are 8 years old or over and needs his own secure garden to play in.

Oakley needs an experienced home who are around all day as he will chew and is worried when left. Oakley has a habit of eating non food items and needs constant supervision. The garden would need to have no stones.

Thomas - 8+ year old male Labrador Cross Thomas is a lovely older gent who still loves his longs walks in the country. He loves company and treats! Thomas can live with children who are 12 years old or over and needs his own secure garden to play games in and practice his training. He needs an experienced home who are around most of the day to help him settle as he can be worried when left alone.

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

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Dogs Trust Gifts Our exciting new range is packed full of wonderful gift ideas for everyone; human and hound!

You’ll find yuletide essentials, gifts for the home, clothing and much more.

There is also a great new range of gifts for your canine companion.

Support Dogs Trust and find the perfect gift, including food, gifts and much, much more.

Every single purchase and donation helps Dogs Trust to care for thousands of stray and abandoned dogs.

Visit www.dogstrustgifts.com do your Christmas shopping in the comfort of your own home.

22/10/2015 12:37:23

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

ADVERTISING business ad rates:

Trades and Services

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

TRADES & SERVICES Black & White ads only Lineage: up to 20 words £12.50* Boxed ad: £7.00* per column cm PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES CARS FOR SALE Lineage: up to 20 words £12.50* Boxed ad: £7.00* per column cm Photo: add £7.00* (colour) *all prices subject to VAT

TUITION

MUSIC TUITION

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

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY MISCELLANEOUS Business

SITUATIONs vacant

The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY £16.79 PER MONTH (incl. VAT)

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

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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)

PROPERTY HOLIDAY HOMES

november 2015

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY to let

L O CA L IN F O R M A T I O N community council

Missed something or fancy taking a look back over the last 8 years? visit www.advertizer.co.uk

Fri 13 Nov

December ‘15 ISSUE: • Deadline: 13 November • Delivery: 27 November January ‘16 ISSUE: • Deadline: 09 December • Delivery: 30 December

or

http://free.yudu.com/library/18833/Gryffe-Advertizer-issues

http://issuu.com/gryffeadvertizer/docs

CONTENT OF THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER The Gryffe Advertizer is a magazine published by The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd

Advertising throughout The Gryffe Advertizer: Definitions: “Standards” means the British Code of Advertising Practice and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act, 1968, the Consumer Credit Act 1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisement (Disclosure) Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements.

It is hereby agreed that: • The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising.

• All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards.

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

• Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher.

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm www.bishoptoncouncil.com

• 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.

BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 1st Tues at 7pm. 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

• 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:

HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. www.howwood.com/community-council.php

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.

KILBARCHAN: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. www.kilbarchan.info/community_council.html

churches

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: 335562.

Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 331488 Houston, Compass Centre. Tel: 615441 / 612617 Kilbarchan, Guide Centre. Tel: 702758.

Kilbarchan, Old Library Centre. Tel: 706070 Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre. Tel: 873994 Kilmacolm, Brownie/Guide Hut. Tel: 874428 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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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. 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.

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

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

Youth meets at 6.30pm-8pm on Sundays. Word and Table Quiet Service held from 9am9.30am every 3rd Sunday. www.houston.nazarene.org.uk Houston and Killellan Kirk: Church of Scotland, Scottish Charity no SC 012822. www. houstonkirk.org.

St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: Tues-Sat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm. Reconciliation: Sat 10-10.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.30-8pm. Exposition: As announced. Baptisms: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month by arrangement. Parish Priest: Rev Daniel J McLoughlin, Dip. Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). “Abbotsfield”, St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T: 01505 612046, F: 01505 610556. E: parish@ stfillan.org.uk. www.stfillan.org.uk

HOWWOOD

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

KILBARCHAN

Services at 11am and in the East and West Churches as intimated in the Kilbarchan village column. The Midweek Fe l l ow s h i p m e e t s o n a Wednesday at 10.30am in the West Church Session House. All services conducted by the Rev Stephen Smith.

Creche, Junior church and FEWsion/Bible Class meet at 10.45am.

KILMACOLM

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

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

St Columba Church of Scotland: ( c h a r i t y n o S C 0 07 9 9 2 ) Morning Worship Sundays at 11am.

St Colm’s Catholic Church, Smithy Brae Kilmacolm.

The Ver y Rev Canon William McDade. Family mass Sundays 10am with children’s liturgy followed by tea and coffee. Weekly rosary Tuesdays 6.30pm, prayer group Thursdays 7.30pm.

Eucharistic service Thursdays 10.30am. Mass on Holy Days 7.30pm. All welcome.

Information about parish events/contact details at www. stcolmsparish.co.uk Grace Church Kilmacolm: in association with the Free Church of Scotland - Sunday S e r v i c e a t 10 . 3 0 a m i n Kilmacolm Scout Hut - all welcome.

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

St Fillan’s Episcopal Church (in Anglican Communion): Everyone is made welcome at our Church in Moss Road. The Rector is the Revd David Gifford and the Associate Priest the Revd Heller Gonzalez (resident in Kilmacolm Rectory). The regular Sunday Service is 11.30am with a monthly Evensong on last Sundays at 6pm. Contact Maureen Russell (Pastoral Assistant) 01505 872905.

LANGBANK

Langbank Parish Church: Rev Dr Ken Forrest. Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Creche and young people’s group, the Welcomers. Tea/ cof fee af ter the ser vice.

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. Why not come and discover the heart of Christianity with us?

22/10/2015 16:46:58

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Items For Sale Baby Equipment Toddler Bicycle helmets (44-48 cm) pink x 2, suits appr. 1-5 yrs old, good condition £5 each. 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.

Britax Car Seat black forward fa cin g , 1 5 -3 6 kg . Go o d condition. £20. Tel: 01505 874870.

Double buggy. Britax B-dual with red covers. £100. Tel:01505 874406.

Britax Booster Seat x 2. Good condition. £10 each. Tel: 0783 721 9372.

Gracco Booster Seat with 2 arm rests and 2 cup holders x 2 good condition. £20 each.

Tel: 0783 721 9372.

Maclaren Techno XT Buggy and rain cover excellent condition. £80. Tel: 0783 721 9372.

Newly hand knitted pure wool 2 ply baby yarn shawl. If interested Tel: 01505 872813.

Mamas and papas rock and roll ride on toy. Pet/ smoke free home. £20 Tel: 7730 610272.

Mamas and papa gingerbread collection, mobile (wall attachment only), light shade and cot bumper. Pet/smoke free home. £15. Tel: 7730 610272.

Toddler bed duvet sets. George pig, toy story and one with cars and trucks.£5 each or all 3 for £10. Tel: 7730 610272.

Brand New Britax Eclipse car seat (Group One). With tags and instruction booklet. RRP £129.99. Excellent reviews online. Sell for £50. BOW. Tel: 01505 612273.

Maxi Cosi Pebble car seat, includes rain cover, instruction booklet and support cushion.

Used but in very good condition. Rear facing, from birth to 13kg. BOW. Tel: 01505 612273. Sell for £25.

Fisher Price Jumperoo - Rainforest theme. Age 4 months+ smoke free home. £35. Tel: 01505 873050.

Bright Starts Bounce Bounce Baby - 360 rotating bouncing activity station. Age 4 months+ smoke free home £30 tel: 01505 873050.

Fisher Price Bounce and Spin Zebra with music. Age 12 months+ smoke free home £10. Tel: 01505 873050.

VTech Animal Fun Bounce Time Turtle - bounce and spin turtle with educational setting and music. Age 12 months+ smoke free home £10. Tel: 01505 873050.

Baby Back Carrier - Kelty Kids: Meadow. Age 6 months+ smoke free home £12. Tel: 01505 873050.

Baby Back Carrier - Tomy Snugli. Age 6 months+ smoke free home £5. Tel: 01505 873050.

High Pram. Good condition.

Royale. £20. Tel: 01505 613256.

Clothes & Shoes Ladies size 10/12 Driza-bone 3/4 coat. £60. Tel: 07449 300988.

Ladies size 10/12 Driza-bone full length coat. £60. Tel: 07449 300988.

Prince Charlie Jacket & Waist coat Size: 42-44. £15. Tel: 01505 705665.

Sporran for Kilt Fur & 3 tassels, Red Garter Flashes, imitation Ski & Dubh. £10 the 3 items.

Tel: 01505 705665.

Household & Garden Round kitchen or dining table and two chairs, butter milk colour. As new. Cost £350.

Accept £75. Tel: 01505 862609 Two seater cream leather sofa and two matching armchairs in beechwood frames. in first class condition. no damage or marks. Ideal for conservatory or lounge. £250. Tel: 07860 654418.

Glass extendable table with light grey metal legs and four high backed cream leather chairs.

Size 122 x 76cm (rectangular) extending to 122x122cm (circular) in good condition. £175.

Tel: 07860 654418.

Aynsley Little Sweetheart - 2 bud vases (one square, the other round) and matching desk clock (still boxed) - the perfect Christmas gift for the more mature lady! £10 for all 3. Tel: 07713 163639.

t: 01505 613340

Reid’s black leather reclining massage chair. £150. Tel: 01505 673585.

Italian black leather 3 seater modern design sofa with adjustable head rests. £195.

Tel: 01505 673585.

Traditional velvet 3 seater sofa mink/taupe colour. £185. Tel: 01505 673585.

Brown Leather Suite 1 x 2 seater, 1 x Armchair, 1 x Footstool with Storage. In perfect condition non smoking non pet household. £200. Tel: 07967 118735.

Traditional style mahogany computer desk with inlaid burgundy leather top. £150.

Tel: 01505 613489.

2 coffee coloured jumbo cord lounge chairs. £100ono.

Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0141 886 3545.

Brand new carpet 5square metres. Silver grey. £30. Tel: 01505 614201.

Oak tv cabinet W100 D60 H50 with 2 drawers excellent condition. £40. Tel: 01505 614201.

Office type chair leather. Good condition £10. Tel: 01505 705665.

Modern Dining Table and 6 chairs. American Walnut with end drawers. 2m x 1m.

6 brown faux leather high backed chairs. £350. Tel: 07540 077402.

Loft Bed, silver metal. With desk and futon. Chair underneath.

VGC. Clean mattress £50.

Tel: 01505 610119.

White marble wash stand. Two drawer. £70. Tel: 07501 974158.

Antique mahogany dining room table with 6 chairs (inc 2 carvers). Perfect condition.

Offers when seen. Tel: 01505 874408 or 07710 496789.

2 Rattan Conservatory Chairs.

M&S Bermuda Range. Oatmeal cushions. VGC. £260.

Also free cane coffee table.

Tel: 01505 705450.

Re t r o / Vi n t a g e M a c i n t o s h / Beithcraft extending solid mahogany dining table, 2 upholstered carvers & 4 upholstered chairs, excellent condition. £150. Matching sideboard available. Tel: 07954 364125.

Nursing gliding chair with footstool, Cream colour. £25. Tel: 07748 876561.

Dining Room Table - Stag Versailles, light mahogany, classic design, seats 6 extends to 8. As new due to limited use.

Pictures available. £200ono.

Tel: 07887 841613.

Six dining chairs (4 plus 2 carvers) - Stag Versailles, light mahogany, dark teal upholstery. Excellent condition due to limited use. Pictures available. £200ono. Tel: 07887 841613.

Sideboard - To match Stag Versailles dining furniture, light mahogany, 3 cupboards, 3 drawers. H 84cm x L 140cm x D 50cm. Pictures available. £150 ono. Tel: 07887 841613.

Bed Super King Size. Brand new still in wrappers (Mattress) Bed frame brand new £200. Tel: 07791 688240.

Flymo garden vac. £15. Tel: 01505 614503.

Electrical & Gas Small 15” flat screen TV with build in DVD player (Alba make). Ideal for kitchen or childs room. £25. Tel: 07951 010557.

Indesit Washing Machine. £50 ono. Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0141 886 3545.

Hotpoint Fridge. £30ono. Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0141 886 3545.

Hotpoint Freezer. £30ono.

Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0141 886 3545.

Microwave. £20 ono. Bridge of Weir. Tel: 0141 886 3545.

LG 42” television, (LF77), Freeview/Freesat. Good condition, great picture. Can be seen working. Selling due to upgrade. Cost £499 new. Sell for £80. Tel: 01505 690 247.

32” LCD HD TV in very good working order and condition.

Also has DVD player built in. £70. Tel: 07860 654418.

Kenwood BM250 bread maker, hardly used with instructions and recipe book £30. Tel: 07810 355688.

Frigidaire 2800rpm spin dryer.

Ideal for spinning hand-wash or delicate items. £10. Tel: 07713 163639.

TV, Toshiba with stand and digibox. Good working order.

24” screen. £20. Tel: 01505 613256.

Bosch dishwasher, Neff hob and oven all VGC. £120, will split.

Tel. 01505 615326 / 07840 692532.

Red ‘Next’ Microwave and Toaster. Microwave hardly used. £35 for both. Tel: 01505 690638.

Domotec Super Steam Cleaner with iron. In box, used twice. £100. Tel: 01505 610996.

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 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.

64-67 CLASSIFIED_254_NOV15.ind.indd 66

e: info@advertizer.co.uk Airforce Air Cooler, Evaporative Cooler with Ioniser. In box. In excellent condition. £40. Tel: 01505 610996.

Daewoo Compact 1100 Watt Hoover. £15. Tel: 01505 610996.

Baxt Windermere Cast Iron Stove Brand New. £130. Tel: 07791 688240.

Pets Hamster cage (large) platform with bed, wheel, wooden block, exercise ball, water bottle etc. £25. Tel: 07951 010557.

Aquarium Tank Aqua one 620T Fresh water or Tank with cabinet to match, comes complete with internal lighting, filter integrated in housing, heater, Gravel & rocks and a few extra’s. £100 secures.

Tel: 01505 705665.

Sports Full set slazenger golf clubs.

Bag/golf master trolley. Tel: 0141 840 1760.

Girls Bike, 16” 112/125cm.

‘Sparkle & Glitz’. 5-7 years.

Calliper Brakes. Detachable Stabilizers. Brand new, still in box. £40. Tel: 01475 540327.

Ladies/Girls Apollo Haze, 17” frame, bike with accessories including, front wire basket, Trax helmet, pump, lock and water bottle. Only used once.

Excellent condition. Cost £173 - Sell for £65. Tel: 01505 690247.

Junior BBE Britannia Boxing bag and gloves, like new. £20.

Tel: 07951010557 Babolat Tennis Racket 21”, blue/ white/black, like new, hardly used.£15. Tel: 07951010557 Scooter - black, called “The Wave” £7. Tel: 07951010557 Crane Sports Power X8 cross trainer, hardly used with instructions £150. Tel:07810 355688.

Vintage Bicycle Gents 23” Raleigh Superbe in time warp condition Sturmey Archer gears enclosed chaincase Green. £200. Tel: 07791 688240.

Girls Bike 15” frame good condition £35. Tel: 07791 688240.

Folding bike fits any size £35.

Tel: 07791 688240.

Toys/Games/DVD Small Trampoline - Chad Valley, Pink. Size H56, W56, D56cm Age 12 months+ smoke free home £5. Tel: 01505 873050.

Outdoor plastic children’s picnic table. £5. Tel: 7730 610272.

PS4 Dexter Box Set, series 1-8. £25. Tel: 01505 341049.

Dragon Ball XenoVerse PS4. £20. Tel: 01505 341049.

WWE 2K15 PS4. £12. Tel: 01505 341049.

VTech Playtime Bus - teaches phonics, letters and numbers - very good condition - £5. Tel: 07713 163639.

Wooden push along trolley with alphabet bricks. £5. Tel: 07713 163639.

Rainbow Magic Books - 13 single, 3 sets and 1 Treasury.

Outstanding condition. Perfect for any little girl (age 4-8) £10. Tel: 07713 163639.

Microsoft Xbox Vouchers. Unwanted gift. £40 value for just £30. Tel: 07841 234981.

Apollo Spider-Man Kids Bike (20 inch) - ideal for child age 5 - 8.

Excellent condition, as good as new. Cost £120 sell for £30. Tel: 01505 690658.

Other Items Telford Tempest 150ltr S/S Direct Cylinder + all fittings for installation new. Still in the box. Must uplift. £350ono.Tel: 01475 540313.

Acoustic guitar suitable for 8 - 14 year old right handed hardly used in first class condition £25. Tel: 07860 654418.

Stagg Electric black and white guitar and Marshalls amplifier suitable for teenager/young adult (right handed) almost new £65 for both. Tel: 07860 654418.

Tom Tom car Sat Nav. Working order with instruction booklet.

6 years old. £10. Tel: 01505 613256.

Riefler compass set drafting tools new in box. £10. Tel: 01505 614503.

Corby 7700 Trouser Press, in perfect condition. £65. Tel: 07475 500433.

Black & Decker Workmate Plus Bench (W825). Unopened present. Would be a nice gift for Christmas. Sell for £35.

Tel: 01505 690 247.

Pair of ‘Jamo’ 100W, D-135, black ash speakers. (H21” x W11” x D9”). Comes complete with stands. Good condition. Sell for £40. Tel: 01505 690247.

Winter wheels for BMW Series 3. Set of (4), steel rims, used two seasons. Tyre treads greater than 6mm. Cost £950 new, will accept £350. Tel: 01505 872062.

Bicycle Rack (Graber USA) for Hatchback/Estate Car. As new. £15. Tel:07501 974158.

Apple I Phone 5 black in leather wallet new battery plus new spare takes most sims try before you buy no issues with this reliable phone private sale no prejudice £130. Tel: 07791 688240.

Phablet 7 “ phone tablet combined brand new dual sim £100. Tel: 07791 688240.

F REE

CYCLE

FREE: 3 seater couch. Neat size. Beige floral chintz. Very clean washable covers. Good condition. Tel: 01505 610119.

Wanted Items

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

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

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

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

Garage space needed to store a motorbike over the winter. Will pay. Contact David 07769847387.

Black Dining Room Table. Tel: 01505 506385.

H E L P NEEDED

Do you know sign language?

Are you a native BSL user?

I am looking for some help in the run up to my BSL level 2 exams. If you can help me, please email: eleanormconnelly@gmail.com or call 07792 661 772.

22/10/2015 16:46:59

www.advertizer.co.uk

november 2015

67 67

Advertizers - A to Z

by category Accountants & Financial

Education

Affluent Financial Planning . . 27 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 27 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 55

Architectural Services Architectural Drawings . . . . . 27 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 3 Paisley Artists Annual Exhibit . . 23

Automotive Services AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 32

Bathrooms Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10

Blacksmith & Metalwork Iron House Stoves Limited . . 37 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 5

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 44 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 57

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 27

Care Services & Homes Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 2

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 14

Charity Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 39 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 41 Willow Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 27

Council Notices Council Events . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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

Driving Instructors

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

Entertainment Fair Pley Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Inverclyde Council . . . . . . . . . 49

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 5

Firewood & Logs LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 5 The Firewood Barn . . . . . . . . . 43 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Framing Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 3

Funeral Services Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 44 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 4

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

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 50 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 49 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 48 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 50 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 51 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 50 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 50 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 49 West of Scotland Landscape . . 51

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 3 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 16 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 16 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 40 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 45 JRS Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . 2 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 40

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 40 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 45 Beautique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 61 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 33 Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 36 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 45 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 21 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 18 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 40

Alistair McMahon Driving . . . 43 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 16

never miss an issue again! visit www.advertizer.co.uk or http://free.yudu.com/library/18833/Gryffe-Advertizer-issues

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64-67 CLASSIFIED_254_NOV15.ind.indd 67

Home Hardware

Property, Sales & Let

First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gibb Stuart ........... 23,23,34,58

Baillie & Baillie Estate Agent . . 27 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . 29,30,31 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Home Improvements Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 12 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19

Home Interiors Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 39 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 43

Home Security Bell Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 7

Joiners CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 3 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 JBC Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 23 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Kilt & Dress Hire Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 3

Kitchens

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

Restaurant & Bars Amaretto Ristorante & Pizzeria . . 25 Ardardan Estate . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 41 The Corran Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Retail Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 2 Ardardan Estate . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Blackwood of Kilmacolm . . . . . 9 Gibb Stuart . . . . 23,34,58 Saks & Hart Country Living . . 8 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 43 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 42

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 44 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 16 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 57

Social Care Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 10 CRW Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7

Solicitors

Leisure & Recreation

Sports Clubs & Events

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club . . 60

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 18 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 McDonald Decorators . . . . . . . . 9 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Pet Services & Training Barking Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Dog Treat Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Happy Rambles . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 63 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 62 Woofers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 4 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 3 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 16 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Affinity Family Law Experts . . 11 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

Special Occasions ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club . . 60

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 9

Tiling G J Tiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 14 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Travel Agents Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 50 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 49

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 38 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 18

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Art Windows and Doors . . . . . . 13 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 16 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.

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