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March 2016 No.258 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

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‘Sunset at The Knapps’ by Ruth McKirdy

March 2016

No. 258

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your LOCAL community magazine

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EXPERT JET-WASHING With Spring now here this is the time of year we are busiest cleaning driveways, patios etcâ€™ ready for Summer. If you are thinking of having your driveway cleaned then it is crucial itâ€™s done correctly to prevent problems in future. If there are a lot of weeds these should be treated before jet-washing and after a high-pressure industrial clean that removes dirt, moss and a little sand it is critical to re-sand with kiln-dried sand, a Biocidal treatment will then resist future growths. Give us a call for free friendly information on this service or for a free quotation. 01505 863 863 www.nutechcleaning. co.uk

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This ROADS

Month

In Bishopton this summer there will be improvements to the park & ride at the train station which are part of the proposed Dargavel Village development. These works are estimated to last around 18 weeks and while this will no doubt cause disruption for villagers, the developer will be working to keep this to a minimum. Also, Renfrewshire Council are hoping to improve the crossing from St Mary’s Church and the car park and line the entry to the Old School in Bridge of Weir. In Kilmacolm, planned roadworks on Port Glasgow Road will be starting on 16 March. The stretch from Auchenbothie Road junction to Woodrow Avenue will be resurfaced and while there will no doubt be signiﬁcant disruption during the period of these works, hopefully it will all be worthwhile. Drivers have been concerned about the danger of water running across the Johnstone Road at the bend between the farm road and the cemetery. This is caused by water running onto the road from the ﬁeld, and in freezing weather the water turns to ice. Bridge of Weir Community Council has written to the Roads Department regarding this. Ironically, the stretch of road on the other side of Bridge of Weir at Scart Farm, which one winter was the most troublehit for water problems, has been trouble-free all winter!

PLANNING There are a number of planning proposals in the pipeline and our local Community Council members and Councillors are busy checking the details. A major development of 267 houses has been approved for land at the old Merchiston Hospital site just outside Brookﬁeld. This will most certainly have an impact on the road system and trafﬁc, which is already very busy at peak times, will become much busier as a consequence.

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.259 April 2016

Deadline: Friday 18th March 2016 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 dental blog.............................13 what’s on.............................14-23 business news.....................24-27 ﬁnancial blog.........................24 it blog..................................24 local history...........................26 on the road........................28-29 pets...............................42-43 pet blog ............................42 village news....................30-41

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In Bridge of Weir, there is a proposal by Gladman Developments to develop the Green Belt site lying to the north of Kilmacolm Road for housing. Bridge of Weir Community Council advise us, “This application is for planning in principle and does not offer any information of the final number or the style of houses being planned. However, it is a large site and is likely to have a significant impact on the village.” Residents are urged to make their thoughts known on this proposal and details of how to do this are on p32 in the BoW CC report. They also advise that with regard to the Bull’s Garage site and Whitelint Gate, there are no applications at the present time. On Tuesday 15 March, there will be a public consultation meeting in the Old Library, Kilbarchan from 2pm to 8pm. This is to present a prospective major residential development at the ground behind the Quarry, Low Barholm and Barrhill Crescent, Kilbarchan, although this is not a specific planning application for permission. Cllrs Doig and Bibby are both concerned about the impact of this proposal on village resources and again villagers are urged to attend if they can and to consider carefully the proposed plans.

Next deadline Friday 18 March! outdoors..........................44-49 photography hints & tips ............46 sports & clubs news.............55-59 sporting blog..........................57 schools news.....................50-54 advertiser directory................63 business classiﬁed...........60-61 church listings....................61 deadlines dates...................61 property classiﬁed.................61 sales & wants......................62

Send in your news and photos to: info@advertizer.co.uk, or by post to The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st ﬂoor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN.

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Don’t Stop Me Now! Don’t Stop Me Now Scotland is a Community Interest Company based in Burnhouse, Ayrshire, which specializes in Equine Therapy for both children and adults who are diagnosed with a NeuroSensory condition, such as Autism, ADHD, ADD and Anxiety, using both Horseboy and Eagala methods of learning.

We are holding an Open Day on Wednesday 6th April ; 1pm-5pm. Come along, meet our team & our horses. Enjoy what our centre has to offer and maybe try the bouncy castle or get your face painted. Try our tasty home-made tablet and cakes or get a hot snack at our barbecue. Relax on our home made chairs or enjoy our tractor tire sandpit. BUT most of all relax knowing your child is happily playing safely in our purpose built sensory centre. Groups are welcome in the morning, we have speciﬁc slots available - give us a call on 07415 767746, email AmyMcintyre@ dontstopmenowscotlandcic.co.uk or message on the facebook page to arrange a speciﬁc time, and give it a LIKE while you’re there! Https://www.facebook.com/ DontStopMeNowScotland/ http://www.dontstopmenowscotlandcic.co.uk

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Overnight Ghost Hunt at Renfrew Victory Baths Will you see the woman in white in the tunnels or the small boy who is said to have died in a freak incident more than 80 years ago... Will he come out to play? We have witnessed poltergeist activity ďŹ rst hand here with a large group of guests witnessing a box moving by itself! There have been strange temperature changes, disembodied voices and much more... Even staff at the baths have witnessed strange activity with us. Join us as we try to uncover the mysteries and search out what lurks in the shadows and communicate with the dead... We have access to the main pool areas, the dance studio, upper gallery and the very dark and spooky basement.... Dare you take part in our spooky experiments, or do a lone vigil... Will you come face to face with a Renfrew Baths ghost? (Over 18s only and no pregnant ladies) Friday 12th March, 9pm to 3am. Inchinnan Rd, Renfrew PA4 8ND. Price: ÂŁ39. Call 07817 408580.

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Why we celebrate Mother’s Day 5 interesting facts: 1 - Mother’s Day, sometimes known as Mothering Sunday, is held on the fourth Sunday of Lent. It is exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday and usually falls in the second half of March or early April. 2 - It was originally (and still is) a time for families to reunite. People returned to the church, in which they were baptized or where they attended services when they were children. 3 - In time, it became customary for young people who were working as servants in large houses, to be given a holiday on Mothering Sunday to visit their own mother and take her a small gift. 4 - Traditionally, people observed a fast during Lent and did not eat from sweet, rich foods or meat. However, the fast was lifted slightly on Mothering Sunday and many people prepared a Simnel cake to eat with their family on this day. 5 - A Simnel cake is a light fruit cake covered with a layer of marzipan and with a layer of marzipan baked into the middle of the cake. Traditionally, Simnel cakes are decorated with 11 or 12 balls of marzipan, representing the 11 disciples and, sometimes, Jesus Christ.

Erskine Cheque Presentation from Ingliston Country Club We celebrated Burns at Ingliston Country Club having a corporate evening within our Salerno Suite with top Burns speakers and managed to raise £1250.00 for Erskine, which is our chosen charity.

Photo - left–right: Steven McManus – Corporate & Events Fundraising Manager; Derek Kirkaldy – Ex-Tank Commander and now Community Fundraising Officer; Ian Maxwell, General Manager; Executive Head Chef, Donald McInnes from Ingliston Country Club. Great night had by all.

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march 2016

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk Parliament to Dissolve - On the 23rd March the Scottish Parliament dissolves ahead of the election on May 5th. As part of the dissolution process there will be no MSPs until after the election. Therefore, as I will no longer be an MSP – albeit hopefully only temporarily – I am under Parliamentary rules unable to take on any new constituency casework from that date. With this in mind I would urge any constituent who has an issue they feel I may be able to help with to contact my office on 0141 885 2076 as soon as possible. Alternatively, they are welcome to attend any of my surgeries, please call my office for full details of times and locations. As you will know I will be standing for re-election as constituency MSP in May and will spend the dissolution period speaking to as many voters as humanly possible to ask for their support and

trust again. Funding for new Kilmacolm Primary School - Inverclyde Council will receive a share of £230 million from the Scottish Government to replace Kilmacolm Primary School. The Scottish Government is working hard to improve educational standards across the country to make sure that every child in Scotland has the ability to achieve their potential. Part of that is making sure children have the right physical environment to learn in. The announcement from the Scottish Government of a new school for Kilmacolm is fantastic - a modern building that pupils, teachers and the whole community will enjoy for generations to come. In addition to the educational benefits of the new school, it will also provide a boost to the local economy, creating many construction jobs and apprenticeship opportunities. £20m backing to ease argriculture cash flow concerns - The Scottish Government is taking further action to ease cash flow issues in Scottish agriculture. Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead has announced a scheme - backed by £20 million Scottish Government funding - to enable more farmers and crofters to access loans whilst waiting for their Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments. The Scottish Government fully recognise the cash flow issues facing Scottish agriculture as a result of difficult market and weather conditions coinciding with the biggest CAP reform ever.

The LEAP BIKE SWAP, held at the Annexe, was a great success on Saturday 6th February, despite the cold and rainy Lochwinnoch weather. Lots of lovely bikes were donated, with 19 bikes finding new homes and excited owners. On booking her new bike out, one girl saw her old bike being chosen, so had the pleasure of meeting its new owner and wish them fun and enjoyment on their new bicycle! Look out for future BIKE Swaps by visiting the LEAP website at www. myleapproject.org or check out our facebook at www.facebook. com/myleapproject

Help your environment LEAP welcomes your Pledges At LEAP are interested in the actions and changes you are making in your daily lives to reduce energy and our carbon footprint. For some people it’s about changing 6 of their bulbs to LED, cycling to work 2 days a week rather than driving, switching off their games consoles instead of leaving them on standby, turning the heat thermostat down one notch, car sharing, insulating lofts, joining a car club, growing vegetables, recycling clothes and furniture, swapping bicycles and many more. To celebrate this leap year, LEAP will be sharing this information and showcasing some of the small and bigger actions individuals, groups and communities are already involved in taking. For more details visit www.myleapproject.org or our facebook page at www.facebook.com/myleapproject

A BIG THANKS from LEAP to everyone who took part in our Feedback Survey!

During February, LEAP invited our local residents, local groups, organisations and partners to take part in the LEAP Feedback Survey. We wanted to find out more about the actions you have taken as a result of LEAP’s information and advice services and our work with young people, schools and community groups across our villages and in Renfrewshire. We’ve had a tremendous response, thank you! We were really excited to get people’s opinion on the value of what we do and to find out about all the changes you have made and the social, physical, economic and environmental benefits you have gained from your own actions and the support you have accessed from LEAP. Looking into the future, asked how LEAP can help individuals and our community in future and how you would like to get more involved. If you didn’t get a chance to complete our on-line survey, we’re always keen to find out your ideas. Thank you for all your support and a big thanks to The Advertizer for helping LEAP keep you informed. We’ll publish the results of our survey online with a summary in The Advertizer. In the meantime keep in touch through the LEAP website at www.myleapproject.org at www.facebook.com/myleapproject, or get in touch with the LEAP team by phone on 01505 842530 or 01505 612034.

Mhairi Black MP and Councillor Mags MacLaren visit LEAP LEAP were very pleased to host Mhairi Black MP and Councillor Mags MacLaren for a visit in February to meet some of our LEAP team and see first-hand how we help our community. We spoke at length about the issues affecting local residents and Mags and Mhairi were very interested in the help we provide in particular the practical actions thermal imaging, draught testing, installing energy saving measures and help with fuel bills, LEAP YEP! and LEAP Car Club. We also toured the most recent solid wall insulation scheme LEAP has completed in Bridge of Weir. To find out more about this scheme and other help we provide please see: http://www.myleapproject.org/energy-advice/

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

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The RAMH Dinner and Quiz Friday 13 May, Normandy Hotel, Renfrew Local mental health charity RAMH is teaming up with the University of the West of Scotland to produce an exclusive Dinner & Quiz raising crucial funds for mental health services. This will provide a fantastic opportunity for either corporate hospitality or a great night out with friends and family. Tickets cost just £35 per person and guests will enjoy a fizz reception, three course meal and eight rounds of celebrity hosted quiz. The quiz finishes at midnight and dancing continues until 1am. The event aims to raise £15,000. RAMH Chief Executive Stephen McLellan said “We’re delighted to have headline sponsorship from the University of the West of Scotland. Their support really enhances our efforts and the collaboration emphasises the importance of mental health within our communities. It’s a brilliant night and we encourage everyone to get involved”. RAMH helps 5,000 people across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire with all mental health diagnosis from depression to bipolar disorder. Book now by contact 0141 847 8900 or enquiries@ramh.org 5 top tips if you are worried about a friend’s mental health 1. Listen: Listening is the most powerful thing you can do for your friend. Give them your time and continue to do so throughout the recovery journey. 2. Be non-judgemental: Your friend may worry what people will think of them. Listen without judgement. It’s OK to say “I don’t have experience of what you’re going through but I will stand right by you”. 3. Ask how you can help: Work together to find out what could make life a little easier for your friend. Try different things and go back to check what’s most beneficial and what small changes make a big difference. 4. Seek support: Along with finding ways to self-help, seek professional support both for your friend and for you. RAMH services do not require a GP’s referral; contact 0141 8478900 or enquiries@ramh.org for more information. 5. Stick by them: It’s often challenging to support someone with mental ill health but even the small things, such as occasional text messages, will mean a lot to your friend.

Inverclyde Santa Dash Inverclydes Santa Dash biggest fundraiser for the fifth year in a row was Lesley Roberts. Out of the £1580 raised, £1530 of that was raised by Lesley. Lesley donated the money to the Royalheart Greyhound Rescue and the Beth Fund which was set up by the Abbey Vets to help pay for animals who are ill or injured and dont have a family to pay the bill. Lesley would like to thank Stuart McMillan MSP, seen above as well as Derek McKay MSP, Gavin Newlands MP, Eddie Devine Councilor and Robert Moran the Provost for Inverclyde for sponsoring her and helping the charities. A special thanks also goes to the staff and customers at the Kilbarchan Vets who also helped raise money. Lesley would also like to thank all her friends, and colleagues who sponsored her.

Information required On Thursday 28 January 2016, Bernie’s Cafe/Deli in Bridge of Weir was burgled around 10.30pm. Not much was taken and there was minimal damage, but as so often with these robberies, the disruption caused with call-outs and consequent repairs required was considerable. Two men, one of slim build, one of heavier build, both wearing dark hooded tops or jackets, came with the appropriate tools to break in. If anyone has information, please contact the Police on 101.

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PCPC 2nd Bimonthly Competition Results Paisley Colour Photographic Club welcomed experienced photographer Roy Gibson from Ayr Photographic Society to judge the second of the session’s three bimonthly competitions held last month at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew. In this competition club members could submit up to three images and Roy gave detailed consideration to each of the images in turn. There were almost a hundred entries and the standard in this bimonthly competition was particularly high in all three sections - introductory, intermediate and advanced. Roy admitted that he was given a very difficult task ranking the wide range of entries which included some great detailed natural history images and spectacular sports action shots.

Third place in the introductory section was awarded to Ken McArthur for his image “In Reflection”. Frank Donnelly’s close up image “The Fly” was second whilst the top image in this section was judged to be “Please Come Home” by Ken McArthur.

Old photos of Bridge of Weir

In the intermediate section Linda Rodger’s portrait images “Mia” and “Tiger” were in second and third place respectively. The top image in this section was “Kelpies Reflection” by Tony Barr.

The top three images in the advanced section were all landscapes. In third place was the powerful graphic composition “Wilderness Dawn” by Duncan McEwan. In second place was the beautifully lit and dramatic image of “Bryce Canyon” by Bill Melvin. The worthy winner of this year’s second bimonthly competition was judged to be Robert Fulton for his atmospheric and beautifully coloured autumnal landscape image “Clearing Mist”. For further details about PCPC and updated members galleries please view at www. paisleycolour.co.uk

There have been a number of wonderful photos of old Bridge of Weir appearing on Facebook. The page is ‘Our Village Bridge of Weir’ and many of these images have been posted by Terry O’Hara who gave us permission to share with you. The photos here are of Main Street, one looking back towards the Torr Road junction, and the other looking down past what is now the bus stop and the corner at Bernie’s Cafe, with our offices above that.

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Dental Blog by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

Lip Service Lip treatments have become increasingly popular with patients in recent years with facial rejuvenation therapies now offered by many dental practices. It is an area we have been getting a lot of enquiries about as patients want to find out exactly what is involved. Firstly, it makes a lot of sense for a medically-qualified professional to provide these services. Dentists spend 5 years studying the anatomy of the face, building an in-depth understanding of muscles, how to prevent infection and avoid the complications you read so much about in the media. Together with great teeth, the shape of your lips can certainly help enhance a smile and boost confidence. “Lip reshaping” or “Lip Enhancement” is a relatively simple non-surgical process that involves injections to make lips appear fuller. Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring sugar produced by the body is a commonly used “dermal filler” for lip treatments. Dermal fillers often contain an anaesthetic but dentists can help make the experience pain free by administering a dental block and prior to treatment the skin is prenumbed for a few minutes with a cream. There is usually some mild swelling immediately after the treatment but this should subside after a day or two. Lip treatments normally take less than half an hour with the effects generally lasting for around 6-9 months – although this can vary depending on the type of filler and can also be affected by an individual’s metabolism and lifestyle. If you would like to find out more about the facial rejuvenation services offered by dentists don’t hesitate to visit us at the practice, call us on 01505 704969 or check out our website at kilbarchandental.co.uk

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March events

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Fri 4 March Slouch @ Bernie’s

Sun 28 February

Mothers Day Gift and Craft Fair Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 1pm to 4pm

There will be a variety of stalls to make your Mother’s Day special from local artists, beaded and silver jewellery, pottery, make-up, cushions, cakes, candles, homebaking, confectionary and much more. Entry includes Tea and Coffee: Adults £1.50 Children £0.50

Beginners Spoon Carving Workshop

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 10am to 3.30pm

Learn how to carve a wooden spoon! A very rewarding skill to master, come away with a hobby and product at the end of the day! COST: £25. Must be 16 or over to take part for more info call 01475 521 458 booking essential

Fri 4 March World Day of Prayer

St Columba Church Hall. Kilmacolm 1.30pm We are delighted that the children from St Columba’s Junior School will be able to join us with their singing and music. There will be refreshments after the Service. Everyone welcome! If you want to know more about the event, please call. Maureen Russell Convenor (telephone 872905).

RSPB Local Group

Bernie’s Cafe Deli, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

Slouch Returns! Friday night late openings return from March 4th. Open until 11pm with a relaxed menu, great wines & chilled beers.

Sat 5 March MND Coffee Morning

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon Coffee morning to raise funds for MND (motor neurone disease). Ticket £3.

Kilbarchan Singers’ Coffee Morning

Kilbarchan Steeple Hall, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan 10am to 12noon

Tickets £2.50 Various stalls, books baking, tombola etc.

700th Anniversary Concert

Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 7.30pm McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm

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

Girls Night Out

Annual Lochwinnoch Arts Festival: Children’s Poetry Competition

There will be an illustrated talk entitled Whitesands Quarry Restoration Project - a wetland habitat development by Mark Mitchell. All welcome.

Gryffe High School, Old Bridge of Weir Road, Houston 7pm to 10pm

Gryffe High School PTA invite you to our fantastic evening to raise funds for the school. Exhibitors include Mothers Day gift bags, cosmetics, handbags & jewellery, skin and tanning products, raffle prizes and lucky prize envelopes. Bar with snacks. £5 Under 18’s £3

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 12noon

Families welcome! Prizes: £30, £20, £10. All entrants will also win a family ticket to the Grand Finale on Sunday 27 March, in the Parish Church, where the poems will be performed. Cost: FREE Poems should be illustrated by the children and their families, and will be displayed at the RSPB. NB: Adults are very welcome at the workshop, but attendance is obligatory for children wishing to enter the competition.

Swan Chat

Weir Networking Event

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

Speaker: Andrew Laing, Director of Hunter Laing Whisky, a single cask bottler in his own right. He knows the importance of selecting the choicest casks – there are few more knowledgeable consumers of a product than the single malt consumer. All businesses welcome - just £5 per person!

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

There’s more to our swans than eating bread and chips by the lochshore… drop in anytime to find out more! MORE INFO: tel 01505 842 882 Ex 20

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Sun 6 March

Fri 11 March

Mothering Sunday

Stargazing Evening

15 15

Why not treat your mum (or someone else’s) to something special today?

Kilbarchan Fairtrade Fortnight

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 12noon to 1pm

There will be a Fairtrade stall to which all are welcome. Please come along and support producers in the developing world by giving them a fair price for their products.

Tues 8 - Sat 12 Mar The Lyric Club Presents 9 to 5 The Musical

Kings Theatre, Glasgow Maureen Todd from Kilmacolm is delighted to be playing Violet Newstead, the Lily Tomlin role, in this production. If you fancy a fun, laughter filled girls or work night out or just a night out with your other half, please get in touch as we will be running a bus from Kilmacolm/Bridge of Weir to the Thursday evening performance. The cost is £23 for the ticket and the bus. Tickets are selling fast already and the bus is filling up so let Maureen know if you’d like to come along to any performance on 07789 077749 or 872094.

Wed 9 March No Smoking Day

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch 7pm to 9pm

The best dark sky site in the west of Scotland! Join us and Coats Observatory staff for galactic exploration. MORE INFO: tel 01505 842 882 Ex 20

Church of Scotland Quiz Night

Langbank Village Centre, Middlepenny Road, Langbank 7.30pm

Tickets, costing £5 are available from Church members, details will be on the Village Notice Board. This is a BYOB evening, so remember to bring along your preferred refreshment, nibbles and a light supper are included in the ticket price. This is always a very popular evening so please buy your ticket as soon as possible.

Fri 11 - Sat 12 March The Steamie

Johnstone Town Hall B y J o h n s to n e P h o e n i x T h e a t r e G ro u p . Performances 7.30pm both nights and a 2.30pm matinee on the Saturday. Tickets £12 (£10 conc) available from the Ticket Hotline - 07748 817727.

Sat 12 March Why not try stubbing out your last cigarette? Visit the website site for help and inspiration www. nosmokingday.org.uk

Wed 9 - Sun 27 Mar Lochwinnoch, Arts Festival 2016

McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch Lochwinnoch Arts Festival in partnership with Renfrewshire Leisure and Paisley arts centre will present Rapid Departure - tickets £8 (con £5). See main article in this issue’s Village news.

Lochwinnoch Cross

Paisley Abbey Recitals

Details of the submissions for the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival Art Exhibition can be found on the Arts Festival website at www.lochwinnochartsfestival. co.uk

Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 12.30pm Peter Wilson - Tenor. Tickets £5 at the door. Cloister Cafe with baking open from 10am.

Thu 10 - Sun 27 Mar

Kilbarchan Lilias Day - Quiz Night

Glasgow Comedy Festival

We are hitting the ground running thanks to Seona Hart and her fantastic fundraising Quiz Night in support of Lilias day. Please come along to what will be a great night and support Lilias Day.

Visit the website at www.glasgowcomedyfestival. com for a full programme of events.

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Rapid Departure

Guild Hall, Kilbarchan 7.30pm

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Sat 12 March

Sun 13 March

Fri 18 March

Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital

Wedding Fayre

Astronomy Evening

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 3pm 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 at the hospital. Cost: FREE

National Disabled Access Day Castle Semple Sailing Club 11am to 2.30pm

Join us for a day showcasing our accessible outdoor and countryside activities. MORE INFO: tel 01505 842 882 Ex20

Kilmacolm Playgroup & Toddlers Relaunch Party Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road. 11am to 1pm

To celebrate our relaunch, we invite you to join us for a morning with Maria Cairney, author of the fabulous Blitzy Boy books about a naughty terrier. There will be puppets, singing, crafts and a light lunch. Families welcome. Suitable for children aged 0 - 6 approx. (older siblings welcome). Free entry. Lunch included. Any queries contact: Victoria.finningan@hotmail.com. Free entry

Charity Car Wash

Beaton Brothers, Station Road, Bridge of Weir 9am - dark

Bring your car(s) in for a professional hand-sponge wax-wash, and make a donation towards the Therapeutic Toy Library Project - get a really clean car and help make a difference for disadvantaged children.

Sun 13 March

Ingliston Country Club, Old Greenock Road, Bishopton

Free admission with complimentary canapés and sparkling wine on arrival. Email general@ ingliston.com or tel: 0845 301 1010 for further information.

Tue 15 March Kilbarchan Lilias Day - Stall Holders meeting

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm

Sat 19 March

Come and hear about the stars and galaxies up in the night sky! If the weather is kind to us, we’ll go outside and see some of these wonders for ourselves. The speakers will be from the Astronomical Society of Glasgow. Please book, as places are limited and due to the popularity of this event, please pay at time of booking. Cost: Adults: £6; Children: £3 (RSPB members: £3/£2)

Kilbarchan Parish Church Easter Eggstravaganza

Fri 18 - Sat 19 March

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street

Kilmacolm Art Class Annual Exhibition

Old Library Centre, 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan

The date has been set! Come and book your stalls. Stalls booked on the night receive 10% off.

6 Legal Must-do’s for older people

Langbank Village Hall, Langbank 7pm to 8.30pm A free 45 minute talk everyone over 50 should attend! Discussing Wills, Power of Attorney and Advance Directive. Please call Kingsley Wood & Company, Solicitors on 01505 874114 to book a place or for more information.

Wed 16 March Former Pupils’ AGM

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm

Friday 18 March (10am – 5.30pm) and Saturday 19 March (10am - 4pm). There will be a large selection of paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate water colours and palate knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets. Entrance-Adults £1, Children over 5 years- 50p . Contact Janice Sinclair, Secretary Tel-01505 873141 or ask at the Exhibition for more information.

Fri 18 - Sun 20 Mar Sport Relief 2016

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

Former Pupils’ AGM at St Columba’s Senior School - please come along, all welcome.

Thu 17 March St Partrick’s Day

Visit the website at www.sportrelief.com and find out how you can raise money for this fantastic cause.

Paisley Philharmonic Choir - An Evening of Concert Classics

Saint Patrick’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration occurring annually on 17 March, the death date of the most commonly-recognised patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick.

Sat 19 March

Tickets £10 at door. Guest Soloist: American mezzo soprano Jane Monari, graduate of the Juilliard School of Music, New York and the Royal Academy of Music, London.

Fri 18 March

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

St Mirrin’s Cathedral House, Incle St, Paisley 7pm

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The Advertizer - Neva Pl, Bridge of Weir If you want something placed in the next issue, either send an email to info@advertizer.co.uk or call the office on 01505 613340. Don’t miss out!

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Wildlife Explorer Group: Barking Mad! Calling all children! Come along and learn about nature, but most importantly, get dirty and have fun doing it! We’ll be learning all about all things bark. Do we mean trees, animals, or both? Come along and find out! Please wear suitable clothing for being outdoors. Ages: 5 to 14 years. Please note that all children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. Cost: £5 (£3 RSPB members) (adults go free)

There will be an Easter egg hunt and egg/bonnet decorating competitions for the children. Entrance is £2.50, children £1 and includes tea/coffee and hot cross buns. There will be stalls with homebaking, preserves and Easter gifts. This is the first fundraising event of the new Parish Church, please come along and enjoy the fellowship.

Winter Concert Series

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston A concert with a performance by the Barochan Quartet. This is a string quartet of local talent, all professional musicians, and members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices are £12 with concessions for children and students £5. To request tickets or register your interest in helping out please call the Carrick Centre 01505 229597 or e mail - thecarrickcentre@gmail.com .

Bishopton Art Group Spring Art And Craft Fair

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

Local amateur artists and crafts people will offer for sale a variety of products that will make ideal gifts for someone special. This year’s event will feature some new artists. Visitors can vote for their favourite painting. Admission is free. Tea, Coffee and delicious home baking will be available.

Sat 19 - Sun 20 Mar Brookfield Art Club Show

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield

Saturday- 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Sunday - 12noon - 4.30pm. All welcome. Refreshments available. £1 entry.

Sun 20 March Story Telling with TV presenter: Rory!! RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 11am to 3pm

Come along to sample everything the reserve has to offer, as well as listen to animal themed stories read by TV presenter (& RSPB employee), Rory Crawford! When you’re not listening to stories, try out some pond dipping (if it’s not covered in ice!), go for a walk, watch some wildlife or do the treasure hunt. Cost: FREE!

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Reliable Service Meets Reliable Flooring Getting your floor refitted can be a stressful time, especially if you are not in the right hands, be it for your home or place of business. Whether your old floor is water damaged, fitted badly or simply needing a breath of fresh air, we understand that the process should be as smooth as possible for you. That is why Orchard Flooring’s professional fitting services have been recommended by customers for busy homes and businesses in the Gryffe area for many years. When it comes to Karndean and Amtico, laying the sub floor correctly is crucial to ensuring a successful refit and here at Orchard Flooring we always say that preparation is paramount.

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Orchard Flooring have over 15 years’ experience in fitting Karndean and offer a reliable and efficient service. We make sure that the very best materials are used and that the relevant time and expertise are applied to your floor. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and clear communications. We want to walk out that door knowing that, not only do you have a floor that looks and feels spectacular, but that will continue to do so for many years to come. With a home sampling service, why not give us a call and be on your way to a stunning floor from Orchard Flooring? You can contact Scott on 01505 229584 or 07563 633432 E: sjmproducts@hotmail.com web- www.orchard-flooring.com

The Masqueraders Invite you to an evening of Light Entertainment followed by tea and cakes. We are raising funds for St Vincent’s Hospice. On Saturday 16th April at 7.30pm at St Machers Ranfurly Church Hall. Tickets £5/more info phone 612472. Come along and have a laugh.

Paisley Philharmonic Choir An Evening of Concert Classics Sunday 13th March in St Mirin’s Cathedral, Incle St Paisley at 7pm. Tickets £10 at door. Guest Soloist: American mezzo soprano Jane Monari, graduate of the Juilliard School of Music, New York and the Royal Academy of Music, London.

Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Games Society Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Games Society (RIGS) is a friendly group of board and card game enthusiasts who meet every fortnight on Thursday evenings in the upstairs café bar of Amaretto in Bridge of Weir. The games we play offer a wide variety of themes and styles and can cover anything from attempting to lose an election and social standing, building the best garden in the Alhambra or expanding your civilisation in the ancient world. Above all these are games where you are in control of your moves and your decisions are central to your game. Our meetings in March are on the 10th and 24th at 8pm in the upstairs café bar at Amaretto in Bridge of Weir. If you have any questions or would like more information then please call Keith on 07789 501605. If you intend to come along then please also let us know, using the same phone number, so that we can ensure that there is a good supply of games.

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the Luke Danskin - Psychic Medium Audiences are left utterly speechless and amazed at his capability to give detailed messages with amazing accuracy. Since taking to the stage Luke has sold out every show. Tuesday 8 Mar - £15 NOW SOLD OUT!!!

The Last Laugh Why should you never date a comedian? This hit Fringe 2015 show mixes stand-up, theatre and storytelling in a tale about two people discovering whether being funny is as important as being happy. 16+ strong language Thursday 10 Mar - 8pm - Beacon Studio - £8 to £10

SCDA - Western Division One Act Finals The best of the Western Division of The Scottish Community Drama Association come together to provide 3 nights of quality drama and comedy as they compete to represent the West in the Scottish Finals. Thursday 17 Mar - Saturday 19 Mar - 7pm - £12

High School Musical Based on Disney’s Emmy Award-winning TV movie and adapted for the stage by David Simpatico, Disney’s High School Musical transports audiences to East High and into the story of two clique-crossed lovers: basketball star Troy and brainy new student Gabriella. Wednesday 23 Mar - Saturday 26 Mar - 7.30pm - £10 to £14 BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723

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Kilmacolm Dramatic Society President’s Blog: We are now well into rehearsals for our Spring Production of two One Act Plays - ‘Slim Chance’ by Peter Gordon and ‘The Fat Lady Sings in Little Grimley’ by David Tristram. For all you Slimming Club members out there ‘Slim Chance’ will resonate with you all and will generate a lot of laughs! ‘The Fat Lady Sings’ is about a drama group rehearsing for a play which will conclude a great fun night out. Please come along and support us on 21st-23rd April at 7.30pm in the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm, where a warm welcome will await you and a glass of wine at the interval will complete your evening out! As we do 2 shows a year, April and November, we are always looking for volunteers to help with any production either back stage, on stage or front of house so please let us know if you are interested in helping in any way. Check out our FaceBook Page - Kilmacolm Dramatic Society and leave a message or contact myself or any member you may know. Its always lovely to hear from new members and I am thrilled we have several in our Spring Production. We also have a few existing members taking on larger roles for the first time so it is all very exciting and I hope you all take the time to come along, support us and enjoy a local night out of theatre on your doorstep! We will be releasing details of our November production very soon for all you budding actors / actresses / singers - watch this space - in the meantime I look forward to seeing you, our Audience, in April. Kate Watt, President

Wed 23 March Evening Talk: Feathered Friends RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm

Are there dinosaurs in your garden?” by Simon Cuthbert Dinosaurs have long fascinated us with their huge size and fearsome appearance. Their fossils were originally thought of as “Terrible Lizards”, but recent amazing discoveries have revealed that they had much in common with birds. Is that a dinosaur on your bird feeder.....? Please book as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5; Children: £3 (RSPB members: £3/£2)

From Sat 26 Mar Sun 10 April Edinburgh International Science Festival Edinburgh (various)

A mix of world-leading scientists, artists, authors and innovators that will join audiences at venues including Summerhall, the National Museum of Scotland and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The 2016 event will focus on “the fertile space where science meets the arts”. For more visit www.sciencefestival.co.uk

Thu 24 March

Sun 27 March

Former Pupils & School Hockey/ Rugby Matches

Easter Egg Hunt

Birkmyre Park, Broomknowe Road, Kilmacolm 2pm to 3pm

Former Pupils & School Hockey/Rugby Matches, 14:00 Astroturf, 15:00 Birkmyre Park

Fri 25 - Mon 28 Mar Easter Weekend

Weaver’s Cottage, Kilbarchan 2pm-4pm A family event enjoyed by children.

Mon 28 March Easter Eggstravaganza

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 3pm Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Calder Glen Road, Lochwinnoch

Enjoy great access to beautiful countryside this Easter. Climb Windy Hill, walk the Greenock Cut, cycle to Lunderston Bay or paddle on or walk at Castle Semple Loch. MORE INFO: www. clydemuirshiel.co.uk or tel 01505 842 882 Ex20

Sat 26 March Binocular & Telescope Open Day RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm

Come and peruse a range of telescopes and binoculars, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help you find the right one for you! Our optics are competitively priced, with the added bonus that you are helping conservation. Cost: FREE

Quarriers Spring Fayre & Easter Egg Trail Sommerville Weir Hall, Faith Avenue Quarriers Village 10.30am to 2.30pm

Follow the clues in our Easter Egg trail. Tea, coffee & home baking. £3 Easter egg trail (inc egg), free entry into Fayre. Come along for what is sure to be a very ‘eggciting day’!

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We have plenty of wildlife-themed Easter activities for children of all ages, including egg decorating, a treasure hunt, face painting and the ever popular Egg Drop Challenge! No booking necessary. Cost: £6 (RSPB members £3). Adults go FREE!

Canines Against Cancer Dog Walk Gryffeside Farm, Blackholm Road, Kilmacolm 11am to 1pm

We would love you to bring your dog to our farm on Easter Monday and enjoy a walk over our hill (big fields to run around). To help us raise funds we are asking for a £10 donation (payable on the day). We can also tell you everything that we have planned for Canines Against Cancer in 2016.

Tue 29 March 6 Legal Must-do’s for older people Bishopton Community Centre 7pm to 8.30pm

A free 45 minute talk everyone over 50 should attend! Discussing Wills, Power of Attorney and Advance Directive. Please call Kingsley Wood & Company, Solicitors on 01505 874114 to book a place or for more information.

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Paisley Entertainment 30:60:80 Suitable for ages 14+ 30:60:80 is an invitation to three landmark birthdays to meet three remarkable birthday girls. Written and produced by Amy Conway in association with Platform. Tuesday 8th March - 7.30pm - Paisley Arts Centre - £10 & £6 Call 0300 300 1210

Blazin’ Fiddles With a Blazers performance comes the rare opportunity to hear the regional expressions from Scotland’s Highlands and islands, and the individual style from each fiddler - in a blend of ensemble and solo sets. Saturday 13th March - Paisley Arts Centre - 7.30pm - £14 & £12 Call 0300 300 1210

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Annual Concert This will be a great opportunity to hear some wonderful music in the beautiful setting of Coats Memorial Church and we are sure it will be a memorable occasion for everyone! Tickets are available from choir members; email coatschoral@ btinternet.com; phone 01505 816110 or 01505 612874; at the door. Saturday 13th March - Thomas Coats Memorial Church - 7.30pm - £10 & £5 Tickets are available from choir members; email coatschoral@btinternet.com; phone 01505 816110 or 01505 612874; at the door.

Stowaway Suitable for ages 14+ A Boeing 777 begins its descent towards Heathrow. The wheels unfold out of the belly of the plane. The frozen body of a stowaway is tipped out and cuts through the clear morning sky. In the car park of B&Q, Andy looks up. Something is falling out of the sky. A man crash-lands on the ground in front of him. Wednesday 16th March - Paisley Arts Centre - 7.30pm - £10 & £6 Call 0300 300 1210

Ken Mathieson’s Classical Jazz Orchestra Classic Jazz Orchestra play everything from Jelly Roll Morton to Charles Mingus and Duke Ellington to Louis Armstrong with boundless energy and sheer joy. Friday 18th March - Paisley Arts Centre - 7.30pm - £10 & £8 Call 0300 300 1210

Daffodil Tea Enjoy a wonderful time of tea, fellowship, praise, entertainment and glorious music with Paisley Salvation Army! To avoid disappointment contact Pauline Alexander to book a ticket 0787 603 1431 or e-mail, paulinesalexander@ gmail.com Saturday 19th March - Paisley Salvation Army Corps, Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND - 4pm - £5

every Monday

2nd Thursday monthly

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

Solas Bereavement Support Group

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

The group meets in the Kidston Hall. 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Everyone welcome.

This event will not take place on public holidays.

every Tuesday Bishopton Belles Line Dancing Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30 - 8.30pm

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

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

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

2nd Saturday monthly

every Wednesday

‘Brunch & Browse’

Knitting Group

St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm 10am-2pm

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Skinny Minnies Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7pm-8pm

For a healthier, slimmer, more energetic you!

every Thursday Weekly Volunteer Group

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

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

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm

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

Conser vation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

1st Sunday monthly

every Saturday

Messy Church

Weekly Volunteer Group

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

Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm

Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 4pm-6pm

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

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

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years. Newcomers always welcome.

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

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

Crafty Hobbies Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 7.30pm

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

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

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

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

1st & 3rd Sunday Loch Lomond Shores

10am-3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd Thur & last Sat Paisley Cross

10am-2pm Tel: 01655 770217

3rd Saturday Erskine Garden Centre

10am - 2pm Tel: 0141 814 4626

Call 07876 031431

A Buddy Good Laugh Neil Dougan headlines Dead Sheep Comedy’s Buddy Good Laugh with support from Jojo Sutherland & Owen MacGuire! Thursday 24th March - Paisley Arts Centre - 7.45pm - £10 & £8 Call 0300 300 1210

Hue & Cry A fantastic Paisley dayout to see Hue and Cry and their full band and at the same time raise money for Loud n Proud. Saturday 26th March - Paisley Town Hall - 7.45pm - £25 www.tickets-scotland.com (0141 204 5151 /0131 220 3234)

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A Classical Evening with Hazel McBain & Eirlys Myfanwy Davies, Melville Quintet, Flute Phonics

Sponsored by Rosemount Garden and Landscaping services

Lochwinnoch Parish Church

Thurs 24th March

march 2016 Sun 20th March

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Free

Art Exhibition

Sponsored by John Delaney IFA

Children s poetry results Lochwinnoch Choral Society Freshwater Wireless Lochwinnoch Parish church Time: 7.30pm

Price: £6 con £4

For further information, or to book, please visit. www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

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Viewing Nights at Coats Observatory Winter Viewing Season will run Every Tues and Thurs until 24 March. Please note that the Pre-viewing Planetarium Show takes place on Thursdays only during this period. Telescope Viewing Our Winter Viewing Nights operate every year from the end of October to the end of March, allowing visitors the opportunity to view the wonders of the night sky up close through powerful telescopes housed in the building. These events are free, with no booking required. Telescope viewings need clear skies and low wind. If a scheduled telescope viewing can’t go ahead for some reason, alternatives like planetarium shows will be arranged. Every Tuesday and Thursday, 6.30pm - 9pm (last admission 8.45pm). Free, no need to book in advance.

Planetarium Shows Transport yourself to a galaxy far far away... Experience constellations, distant galaxies, nebulae and star galaxies in incredible detail through our state of the art digital planetarium. Free shows run every Thursday, 6pm to 6.30pm between October and March. Maximum of 15 places, please book these evening slots in advance at Paisley museum on 0300 300 1210. (If the skies are clear planetarium films will be shown in advance of the viewing night instead of the tour of the night sky guided show.) 49 Oakshaw Street West, Paisley PA1 2DE - Tel: 0300 300 1210

Winter Concert Series What’s on at Paisley Museum Textile Collection Originating in Asia, the ‘teardrop’ design known now as the Paisley Pattern became popular in Europe in the 19th century, where the town of Paisley became the production centre of the Paisley Pattern Shawl, producing more shawls here than anywhere else in the world. Although the exotically patterned, delicate woollen shawls went out of fashion in the 1870s, there has been a recent re-surgence in the Paisley Pattern, with fashion designers such as Vivienne Westwood including the teardrop pattern in her collection.

The Barochan Quartet - Saturday 19 March - Carrick Centre, Houston Held by Houston Old School Trust (HOST), the Barochan Quartet is a string quartet of local talent, all professional musicians, and members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices are £12 with concessions for children and students £5. Option is also available to have a 2/3 course meal (table service) before the concert in our cafe. Two courses + coffee £15. Third course available at extra cost (bring your own booze). We are also looking to enlist support from a working committee to help organise/promote suture concerts. To request tickets call 01505 229597 or email thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

Hand loom weaving was a traditional industry in Renfrewshire throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and examples of original hand looms are housed in our Loom Gallery. The Paisley Shawl Collection is a Recognised Collection of National Significance to Scotland.

Local History Collection The local history collection at Paisley Museum gives a fascinating insight into the social and industrial heritage of the town. From the story of the textile industry in Paisley, to the history of the old jail in County Square, and the devastating effects of both world wars, reminders of Paisley’s social and industrial past are represented here. One of the most poignant sections of this collection is the memorabilia relating to the Glen Cinema disaster, where 71 children died in a fire in 1929. Artefacts such as a projector reel, a pair of shoes and telegrams from all over the world are displayed here in a reminder to the tragedy. Visit: Paisley Museum, High Street, Paisley, PA1 2BA

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Manicures in March at The Lounge OPI Gel Polish Hands & Toes £40 Love Your Hands Manicure £28 A good old fashioned manicure. Your nails & cuticles are prepared, bathed in a warm milk solution, then exfoliated, a hand masque is applied and your hands are dipped in paraffin wax before being placed in heated mitts. A coat of polish is applied and a sumptuous hand massage to conclude.

When booking quote “March Manicures” Gift Vouchers are a great solution to show someone you care. Pop into the Lounge to collect or simply phone 01505 690090 and we will post one to you.

37 Main Street Bridge of Weir 01505-690090 07872-929798 Manicures ~ Pedicures ~ Waxing ~ Tinting ~ Massage Facials ~ LVL Lashes ~ Spray Tanning

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Financial Blog by Carl Melvin,

Afﬂuent Financial Planning Ltd

High Earners set to pay more Tax The Government needs money and high earners are in its sights. Government raises cash by increasing taxes, reducing allowances and disallowing deductions against tax. For 40% or 45% taxpayers, you may be hit very hard, especially if your earnings exceed £100,000 per year. Here are some tax planning measures you may consider before the opportunity is lost. • Pension Contributions - Higher Rate income tax relief on pension contributions is very likely to be reduced, so you will pay more income tax in future. • Reduction in Pension limits – the amount you can invest each year and the maximum lifetime pension value you can hold are being reduced. Big tax penalties if you breach these limits. • Buy to Let – property investment is now much less attractive due to extra costs and reduction in tax relief. • State Pension Deferral – the benefit is now much less attractive. • Dividend Tax is changing – those with big dividend income will pay more tax • Savings Allowance – this will save tax on interest from cash deposits. • Use ISA allowance – to shelter assets from tax. You can use cash or assets to make your subscription. • Transfer Personal Allowance – consider transferring allowance to your spouse/civil partner to save tax. • Use Capital Gains Allowance – realise tax free profits from assets of up to £11,100 per person. The reduction in tax relief and pension limits will particularly impact high earners who are members of public sector pension schemes like NHS, Local Government, Civil Service, etc – You should take professional advice before tax year end and the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Budget which is set for 16th March 2016. This information is not financial advice. If you require advice you should consult a professional adviser. Achieving financial independence does not happen by accident – it is planned. Consider taking professional advice. The first meeting is normally free and there is no obligation.

Call for a FREE financial review on 0871 702 9490 or info@affluentfp.co.uk. Alternatively, pop into the Affluent office opposite Amaretto restaurant on Main Street, Bridge of Weir. www.affluentfp.co.uk

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with Colin Fyfe of Colcom Windows 10 has been bedding in for well over 6 months now and as it does so, the temptation to upgrade your computer to the most recent O.S. may be getting too much to bear before Microsoft cease their free upgrade offering later this year. Among the computer users that I talk to that have invested in Windows 10, the general opinion of it is fine. My personal opinion of Windows 10 is that it is as good as Windows has ever been. Nobody is particularly happy with the new start menu, as fancy as it may be, but nearly everyone can put up with it. We maybe don’t realise it but we are all becoming more and more au fait with the tech giant’s tricks as they frivolously tweak our software navigation habits. For what it’s worth, I still swear by the classic shell; go to www.ninite.com/classicshell and enjoy the Windows 10 start menu as it should have been. If your computer is running OK and is older than 7 years on Windows 7, then I see no point in running the update other than curiosity. The ever shrinking (but still surprisingly numerous) group of Windows Vista users out there may have noticed a pop up in Google Chrome recently spelling the end to their support of the dated O.S. Both XP and Vista are falling off of the browser’s radar along with Mac OS X 10.6, 10.7, and 10.8 in coming weeks so I would advise caution as security fixes will stop. Perhaps Firefox will provide a safe haven for a while before the shutters come down completely on the pure ancient and utterly decrepit software first provided and sold to us less than ten years ago.

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GRYFFE VALLEY ROTARY THRILLS FOR YOUNG CARERS Young Carers are children whose lives are affected by the need to act as carer to a parent or sibling. Each year Gryffe Valley organises an evening off for groups of such youngsters in Renfrewshire and this year around 6 groups of 14 were taken to The Experience at Hillington – Scotland’s only indoor electric

LOCAL

history

The Ness of Brodgar, Orkney On Thursday 10th March, Renfrewshire Local History Forum’s Archaeology Lecture is anticipated to be one of the most exciting and interesting lectures of the season - or perhaps of the decade! Antonia Thomas, a professional archaeologist who specialises in Neolithic rock art, is our speaker. She has been working at the excavation at Ness of Brodgar in Orkney for a number of years and we are delighted that she agreed to speak at our meeting. The Ness of Brodgar excavation covers an archaeological site of 6.2 acres. It is situated in the Orkney World Heritage site between the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness. This huge site dates from the Neolithic period possibly as early as 3500 BC and was in use for more than a millennium. It predates the domestic site at Skara Brae. The Ness of Brodgar excavation is an on-going investigation which began in 2003. In 2008, the first structure uncovered at the complex was a huge temple with five metre thick walls. Since then further excavation in the surrounding area has revealed a massive stone wall surrounding the site, and numerous ritual and domestic buildings within. Finds include Neolithic pottery, cremated animal bones, stone tools, and polished stone mace heads. Some stone slabs are decorated with geometrical lozenges typical of other Neolithic sites. Others are painted, giving the first evidence of paint being used in Britain to decorate buildings. The site also provides the first definitive evidence of tiles, rather than turf, skin or thatch, being used in Neolithic roof construction. According to the project manager, Nick Card, discoveries and finds at the excavation are unparalleled in British prehistory and many professional archaeologists consider that the site could be more important than Stonehenge. The lecture, Art and Architecture in Neolithic Orkney: the view from the Ness of Brodgar by Antonia Thomas, University of the Highlands and Islands, takes place in Paisley Museum on March 10th at 7.30pm. We will be delighted to welcome visitors. Renfrewshire Local History Forum

Johnstone History Society Our March meeting is on Tuesday 8th in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30pm. This month is our AGM followed by a slide show of pictures of old Johnstone. We will also be holding a raﬄe that evening and any donations of consumables would be gratefully received. On the 19th January, we had a very successful Fish and Chip evening followed by a quiz and Dutch Auction. Fish and chips were supplied by Andy’s in William Street and were enjoyed by the large group that attended. Visiters and new members will always be made welcome at any of our meetings. The Museum situated in Morrisons at the Collier Street end and opens Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. We still have a few Johnstone Calendars left and are now reduced to £3 a great bargain.

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go-karting arena which has been developed by Kibble – one of Scotland’s oldest charities. After donning their racing gear, and with a spot of instruction, they were soon off zooming round the track. A top speed of 35mph may not sound much, but when you are only a few inches off the ground the experience was truly described as ‘awesome’! With a full buffet supper at the Academy restaurant, and the chance to sample some of the other hi-tech facilities like the Laser Experience and Slot Car racing, the Young Carers enjoyed a great night off and they just can’t wait to go back! ROTARY 10K RUN It’s that time again when Gryffe Valley Rotary is organising its annual 10K run around the villages of Houston and Bridge of Weir and the club is inviting runners of all ages and abilities to join in the fun and to help raise funds for the Therapeutic Toy Library Project. Working with Capability Scotland, this is a really worthwhile cause to help establish a library at Corseford school in Johnstone to enable children with special needs in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde to borrow and try out toys and other therapeutic resources – these can make a significant difference to their wellbeing, experience, play and development opportunities. Now is the time to put Sunday 24th April into your diary and to start your preparation for the 10K. If you’ve run in it before, then this year is the chance to establish a personal best for the course. If you haven’t run before, then it’s your chance to join in the fun to make a contribution to the project – why not enter with some friends, perhaps as a pub or club team? The entry fee of £12.50 (£15 if you enter on the day) makes a good contribution and in addition everyone is encouraged to try and arrange personal sponsorship. This is a fun day with medals and goodie bags for all! Apart from the coveted cups for the overall male and female winners, there will be special prizes for age groups (including the over 60s!), for the most personal sponsorship raised, for the best group/team entry etc. The day is rounded off with a splendid array of sandwiches, cakes, tea/coffee and juices, and families and spectators are invited to join in. Full details on the event and on how to enter, to register, to pay and to raise sponsorship are included on our website (Gryffe Valley Rotary) and on our special Gryffe Valley 10K Run facebook page.

CHARITY CAR WASH Saturday 12th March from 9am till it’s dark! at Beaton Bros, Station Road, Bridge of Weir Once again, Gryﬀe Valley Corporate members Beaton Bros are hosting a Charity Car Wash on Saturday 12th March at their premises in Station Road, Bridge of Weir. Bring your car(s) in for a professional handsponge wax-wash, and make a donation towards the Therapeutic Toy Library Project as described above. They will be open all day from 9am till it’s dark, so why not pop in, get a really clean car and help make a diﬀerence for disadvantaged children.

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Weir Networking Next SOPS Presentations:

The next Weir Networking Business group meeting will be on Friday 4 March when we are delighted to have Andrew Laing, Director of Hunter Laing Whisky, as the main Speaker. Andrew at Hunter Laing is a single cask bottler in his own right. He knows the importance of selecting the choicest casks – there are few more knowledgeable consumers of a product than the single malt consumer.

6 Legal MUST-DOs for older people Tuesday 15 March Langbank Village Hall, Langbank from 7.00pm-8.30pm

Tuesday 29 March Bishopton Community Centre from 7.00pm-8.30pm A FREE 45 minute talk everyone over 50 should attend, discussing Wills, Power of Attorney & Advance Directive.

Landlords Workshops - coming soon! These workshops are aimed at Landlords to include information/advice on setting up a residential tenancy; landlords obligations; legislation – costs & implications; repairs & taxation; management issues and controls. Also, advertising; management and documentation preparation; tenant credit referencing; lease preparation; regular property inspections; Bespoke letting and marketing recommendations for properties.

It is their goal that in the years ahead Hunter Laing & Co. Ltd will continue to be regarded as one of the most respected and trusted names in the scotch whisky market, a Family owned Company going from strength to strength. Come along on Friday morning, at 9.30am, to ﬁnd out more and see what we can do to help you and your business. We meet for breakfast and a chat in Amaretto Ristorante, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir. All businesses welcome - just £5 per person!

Contact our oﬃce to book your place at our next events! 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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Transport Scotland The national transport agency for Scotland, delivering the Scottish Government’s vision for transport - ﬁnd us at www.transport.gov.scot Transport Scotland is responsible for maintaining trunk roads and bridges and structures - we prioritise repairs and improvements to ensure safe travel and steady movement of traﬃc. We have contracts in place with the Operating Companies BEAR Scotland, Amey and Scotland Transerv to deliver this work.

Monte Carlo Classic Rally Thousands of people went car crazy in Paisley as vintage vehicles again took over the town centre for the only UK start leg of the Monte Carlo Classic Rally. Paisley was hosting one of world motorsport’s most glamorous events for the third year in a row, as the town’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021 gathers pace. More than 70 classic cars dating back as far as the 1920s gathered outside the iconic backdrop of Paisley Abbey before being ﬂagged over the start ramp by Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall.

If you notice any defects along any parts of the trunk road network or have any other queries relating to the management of the trunk roads you can contact our customer care telephone number: 0800 028 1414. This is free to call from landlines. To report faults on trunk roads, you can also contact the relevant Operating Company through their websites: •

North East and North West Scotland: http://roadworks.bearscot. com/#defect-form-panel

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South East: http://scottishtrunkroadsse.amey.co.uk/report-a-problem/

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South West Scotland: http://www.scotlandtranserv.co.uk/contact-us/ defect-reporting-form/

Faults on local roads should be reported to your local road authority: •

Paisley is just one of ﬁve start cities for the rally from across Europe, with the others being Barcelona, Oslo, Reims and Bad Homburg, near Frankfurt.

Renfrewshire Council: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/webcontent/ home/Services/Transport+and+Streets/Road+and+street+lighting/

•

Many cars were starting out on the 2,688km trek over the Alps to Monte Carlo as part of the oﬃcial Rally Monte Carlo Historique, while others were heading oﬀ on shorter heritage runs to Balmaha and Dumfries.

Inverclyde Council: http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/forms/ShowForm. asp?fm_ﬁd=375

If you are not sure whether the road is a trunk road, you can check our map of the trunk road network and oﬃcial list of trunk roads on our website.

Entrants included a 1950s London taxi piloted by a Belgian crew, and a Paisley for UK City of Culture 2021 branded Chrysler Sunbeam driven by a local driver.

Election bosses issue registration reminder Renfrewshire residents have been reminded this month of the voter registration deadline ahead of May’s Scottish Parliament elections. Voters in Renfrewshire will go to the polls on 5 May and must be listed on the electoral register by Monday 18 April to be eligible to vote. 16 and 17 year olds will be able to vote for Scottish Parliament for the first time and a National Voter Registration Drive was launched this week. Alasdair MacTaggart, Electoral Registration Officer for Renfrewshire, said: “Anyone not yet registered to vote should do so as soon as possible so they can have their say on issues that affect their day-to-day lives. “I’d urge people living in Renfrewshire to use National Voter Registration Drive to spread the message amongst family and friends that it only takes a few minutes to complete the form and register to vote online.”

This year saw a number of vehicles leave from John o’Groats, honouring the 90th anniversary of Scot Victor Bruce’s winning campaign, which started in the Caithness village back in 1926. Visitors were able to get up close to the cars during the day, with Renfrewshire Council also laying on a programme including street entertainers and music from Clyde 1 DJs. There was also kids entertainment in Paisley Town Hall including a giant Scalextric set and Sega rally simulator.

Sandra Black, Returning Officer for the three constituencies of Paisley, Renfrewshire North and Renfrewshire South and Regional Returning Officer for the West of Scotland Region, said: “Everyone involved in preparing for and conducting the elections wants to make it as easy as possible for people to get advice and information and that applies to making sure you are able to vote. Anyone seeking to register to vote can do so online at www.gov.uk/registerto-vote. Renfrewshire residents can get a paper copy of the registration form by contacting the electoral registration office on 0300 300 0150. The National Voter Registration Drive will be active on social media from this week and can be followed via the Twitter hashtag #NVRD.

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Car Clubs are playing their part in helping people to change the way they travel. Join LEAP Car Club and choose a more affordable way to travel. Based in Lochwinnoch, Bridge of Weir and Kilbarchan, LEAP Car Club has over 50 members and provides convenient access to pay as you drive vehicles including plug-in electric vehicles (EVs). It offers people the opportunity to reduce their car overheads and use a car just when they need it. To find out more about community car hire or to become a member, contact LEAP’s Car Club Co-ordinator on 01505 842530 or email mike@myleapproject.org

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18/02/2016 10:01:54

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

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Quiz Night Friday 11 March Langbank Church of Scotland are holding a Quiz Night on Friday 11th March.

..................................................... Bridge of Weir Festival

It will take place in Langbank Village Hall at 7.30pm and tickets, costing ÂŁ5 are available from Church members, details will be on the Village Notice Board. This is a BYOB evening, so remember to bring along your preferred refreshment. Nibbles and a light supper are included in the ticket price.

At the AGM of Bridge of Weir Festival held on 9th Feb, the following Committee members were re-elected, Gordon Lethorn as Chairman, Brenda Lethorn as Treasurer and Meg Millar as Secretary. The following general committee members were re-elected, M Dymond, R Gibson, C Gilzean, C Haddock, A Johnstone, R Lawler, A Matthews, J Matthews, P Matthews, S Millar, M Preece, R Smith & A White. Our next scheduled meeting is on Tuesday 8th March at 7.30pm in the Cargill where we will be selecting the theme for this years Gala Day parade and to discuss the various proposed events for Gala Day and Festival Week. All interested parties and groups are welcome to attend.

Why Good Friday?! As a result of a desire to do more to mark such a crucial event in world history, members of Freeland Church in Bridge of Weir are providing an opportunity for those who wish to take time out to quietly reflect on personal circumstances and the significance of Easter! On Friday 25th March commencing at 2pm an audio visual programme of Easter related songs/hymns and YouTube clips will be interspersed with interviews of church members, conducted by the minister Kenneth Gray, on the significance of this annual event. The church will be open for visitors to pop in any time during the first three quarters of an hour and refreshments will be served at around 3pm in a room adjacent to the church. For those with young children, supervised entertainment will also be provided in our church hall from 2-3pm. Again from 3pm the church will remain open till 4pm for anyone who would like to take the opportunity for quiet contemplation and/or prayer. There will also be prayer box provided for those who would like to request prayer from the minister or elders or alternatively make anonymous requests for prayer. Situated in the centre of the village, a friendly welcome will be given to all who wish to take advantage of this opportunity at Freeland Church.

This is always a very popular evening so please buy your ticket as soon as possible.

STOLEN GoKart in Bridge of Weir Sometime between 1.20am and 4.14am on Saturday 30th January, a break in occurred to a secure container at the rear of Burndale Workshop, Johnstone Road, Bridge of Weir and a Etheridge TKM 4 Orange Go-Kart, chassis number 1378, Engine number K0303 along with spare parts was stolen valued in excess of ÂŁ8,000. Police in Johnstone are seeking any information in relation to this crime, including who is responsible and the Go-Karts current whereabouts and if anyone was seen acting suspiciously in Johnstone Road, Bridge of Weir in the early hours of Saturday morning. Please contact Police Inspector Cassie Glass on 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Smoking out the culprits On Sunday 14 February 2016, some time between 7pm and 9pm, 3 wheelie bins were taken from a driveway on Horsewood Road and set on fire in the Glen down at the swings. Luckily someone phoned the fire brigade and it was put out safely. This incident has been reported to the police. Anyone who was involved in this incident would most likely come home smelling of smoke. If you have any information relating to this incident, please call the Police on 101. Not only is this highly dangerous to those taking part, there is a huge inconvenience and expense for police and fire brigade call-outs.

Langbank SWI For our penultimate meeting of the session we will be holding a `TRAMPS SUPPER`- Fish Supper Evening. Once again please remember to forego your evening meal. There will be a prize for the Best `Tramp`. Competitions for the evening :- 1) Favourite Salt and Pepper. 2)`Tramping` Photograph. 3) Three Potato Scones. Thursday, March 17th at 7.30pm in The Village Centre.

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Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association The latest meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA was once again well attended, with a number of topics concerning the village discussed, and our thanks go to Cllr James MacLaren and the Police for their attendance. The Police report for the past month showed there were eighteen crimes committed within the village of which four have been detected to date. There were five reported thefts, two due to housebreakings, one business broken into and two involving motor vehicles. A separate reported break-in was at the Cargill Hall over the weekend 13th/14th February where charity donations and monies from the library were stolen. For the second month running there have been a spate of vandalism within the village. Garden walls were kicked down in Kenbank Road, cars have been scratched, a number of bottles have been smashed in the Glen at the kids play area and the 4th green at Old Ranfurly Golf Course has had a motor vehicle driven over it. This is your village and the Police need your help, if you see or hear anything suspicious, please phone the Police immediately on 101. There are growing concerns within the village regarding the reliability of the hourly McGills Buses service No.19 to Paisley. There have been a number of incidents of this service running late or not turning up at all. TARA wish your feedback on this issue so that we may built up a more comprehensive picture of the reliability of this service. With this in mind we are proposing to install reporting sheets regarding the No.19 bus in the Bridge and the Cargill Hall, dates and times it was late, didn’t turn up or any breakdowns concerning this service. We hope to have these reporting sheets installed as soon as possible, but in the meantime Cllr. MacLaren has kindly offered to except any feedback via email at cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk which he will pass onto TARA. The drainage works continue in Houston Road Park with tangible progress now being seen for the Council’s endeavours, although it may still take some time for the works to be fully completed given the continuing bad weather. The badly rutted footpath in the Glen, TARA have discovered is not under Council ownership and they are currently working in conjunction with Cllr. MacLaren to find out who does own it, and to hopefully get them to accept responsibility to get it repaired. The next meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA will be held in the Pirie Centre at Freeland Church on Tuesday 15th March at 7.30pm. Why not come along and air your views on any concerns you have regarding the village or just to join in the general discussion. All are welcome.

Reverend Retirement Rev Suzanne Dunleavy has retired as the Minister of St Machar’s Ranfurly Church, Bridge of Weir after more than 23 years of dedicated service. At a special service on Sunday 31st January, she received a retirement memento from a very grateful congregation and a particularly loving send-off from the children! The church will now be calling a new minister.

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Bishopton Art Group Spring Art and Craft Fair Saturday 19 March from 10am to 3pm Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton Local amateur artists and crafts people will offer for sale a variety of products that will make ideal gifts for someone special. This year’s event will feature some new artists. Visitors can vote for their favourite painting. Admission to the Spring Art and Craft fair on Saturday is free. Tea, Coffee and delicious home baking will be available. The venue is a 5-minute walk from Bishopton railway station. There is ample free car parking. Linda Mitchell, organiser of Bishopton Art Group’s Spring Art and Craft Fair said, “The Spring Art and Craft Fair is an annual event. Admission is free. Tea coffee and home baking is also available at a nominal cost. There is always a good selection of arts and crafts available for sale and at exceptional value.” “There is good access for all to Bishopton Community Centre and free parking. The Centre is only 5 minutes walk from the railway station.”

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir

Thank you to all our customers who took part in the Survey during the month of February. We shall review the results over the next couple of weeks. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the 6th March. Show how much your Mum means to you by sending a card from our selection. Easter Sunday is celebrated on 27th March. Brighten up someone’s day by sending an Easter Greetings card from our colourful display. Postcards: postcards printed from photographs used in the 2015 and 2016 calendars are proving popular. These are an ideal way of showcasing our village to friends and relatives. Stationery: Over the last few weeks we have changed some of the display areas and increased our range of products. Please feel free to suggest to our volunteers other items we could stock. Post Office: The usual postal services are provided during opening hours by Donald, Pat and Anne. Volunteers: Do you have a spare 4 hours once a month? If so, please consider becoming a volunteer in The Bridge. You can be assured old friendships will be reignited and new friendships formed. Do not worry about lack of experience as another friendly volunteer will be only too happy to assist. Trustees Annual Report: the Trustees Report & Accounts for the fourth year of The Bridge were approved by the trustees on 27th January. A copy is available at The Bridge for your perusal. (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)

During the vacancy period all services and activities will continue as normal. Find us online at http://stmacharsranfurlychurch.org.uk/, or on Facebook. Come along. All welcome.

BoW SWI We look forward to an evening with Scottish Water on Thursday March 3rd. The subject will range from water at home to Scottish Water’s involvement in bringing clean water to less developed parts of the world. We meet at the British Legion hall in Bridge of Weir at 7.15 for 7.30pm and guests as well as members will be made most welcome.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk WASTE COLLECTIONS: The brown bin service operates from 1 March. Your brown garden waste bin is collected every two weeks, and is collected on the same day as your blue recycling bin. At around October time, there is likely to be a change to the way your food waste is collected. Your bagged food waste can then be put in the brown wheelie bins along with your garden waste. The brown wheelie bins will then be collected all year round. This process should keep this waste out of landfill and the process of anaerobic digestion should create an energy source as well as digestate for use in such areas as agriculture.

ROADS: Thanks to everyone who has contacted me either by email or through my pot hole watch forms. The roads are in a terrible state and a number of cars have received punctures. I will keep reporting pot holes and hopefully some of the poorest roads in the ward will be resurfaced soon.

DARGAVEL: Improvements to the park and ride facility at Bishopton Train Station are planned and will take place over the summer. These works are part of the parcel of improvements coming from the development of Dargavel Village. The improvement work is likely to last around 18 weeks and inevitably there will be disruption – the developer is working to keep this to a minimum. I have asked that residents and motorists are given as much prior notice as possible and commuters are asked to use other park and ride facilities in the area where possible. If they cannot can I politely request that motorists respect those that live in the vicinity of the station. DRAINAGE: It is good to see improvements to the drainage on Station Road in Langbank. It was clear that an upgrade was required and I’m pleased the council has been able to invest here. I am aware the council needs to address many other areas – this is becoming more challenging given the cuts to the council budget – but we will be asking the Scottish Government for additional funds to help address the danger of flooding across Renfrewshire. LIGHTING: Several faulty streetlights were reported and repaired. There was a backlog of repairs as the contractor disputed the contract – but the council managed to resolve the issue using emergency powers. The council are seeking to improve the crossing at St Mary’s Episcopal Church and the car park on Bridge of Weir Rd and to line the entrance to the Old School in Bridge of Weir. E-mail: cllr.michael.holmes@renfrewshire.gov.uk Surgeries: 4th Monday: Langbank PS (from 6pm) and Bishopton Library (from 6.45pm) and Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 4th Wednesday (from 6.30pm). Tel: 0300 300 1295.

Bridge Of Weir Comm Council PLANNING: Fraser Carlin, Head of Planning and Housing Services at Renfrewshire Council attended the February meeting giving a presentation and update on the current Local Development Plan, the timescale and the role the Community Council will have in the consultation process. A considerable number of members of the Public came to hear of the proposed Gladman’s Development on the Kilmacolm Road, this amounted to a lengthy debate. The Community Council agreed to write to Gladman Developments Ltd expressing our concerns on the proposals to develop the Green Belt site lying to the north of Kilmacolm Road for housing. This application is for planning in principle and does not offer any information of the final number or the style of houses being planned. However, it is a large site and is likely to have a significant impact on the village. Residents wishing to make comment on this proposal should write to Gladman Developments Ltd, 2 Eliburn Park, Livingstone, EH54 6GR quoting application reference POAN15/0787/NO or by e.mail to planningscotland@gladman.co.uk. Concerns were raised that the old Bull’s garage is fast becoming an eyesore in the village. Fraser Carlin informed us that no planning application has been received for development at this site. The Community Council will contact Renfrewshire Council Planning to explore any options that may exist for this site. Likewise there has been no further proposals for Development at the Whitelint Gate site. The Community Council was informed that a planning application has been lodged by Ranfurly Castle Golf Club for the development of seven properties on land within the green belt at Clevan’s Road. POLICE REPORT: The meeting welcomed Inspector Glass who reported that the police are seeking information after a break-in to a trailer parked at the rear of Burndale Workshops, Johnstone Road in the early hours of 30 January resulting in the theft of a distinctive Go-kart valued at £8,000. She reported that sneak thieves are operating in the area entering unlocked properties and making a quick getaway. People are leaving themselves vulnerable to this by leaving doors and windows unsecured.

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I have submitted a motion to Renfrewshire Council to have the flooding issues in Langbank addressed. The community council has written a comprehensive report of the recent flooding events for which I am grateful, and I am sure this will be very useful. OTHER: Nest boxes increase both bird numbers and breeding success. Here are some tips for making one: A wooden box is fine but the material that will attract most birds is woodcrete: concrete reinforced sawdust. Don’t stray from the traditional round entry hole; tits much prefer that shape, also, different birds prefer different colours. Don’t provide nesting material as they probably won’t use it. Have the box facing northeast (avoid southwest-facing boxes) and clean out once a year. 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 “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.

Acknowledgement: Graham (Davie) Morag and the family would like to thank all relatives, friends and neighbours for so much kindness and support during recent weeks. The Rev. Susanne Dunleavy for her spiritual comfort and the doctors, nurses and staff at the RAH Paisley for their caring attention. The generous collection was donated to the Beatson Cancer Charity. Reports of speeding traffic on Kilgraston Road and Crosslee Road will be investigated by the Police. The Community Council has written to the Roads Department asking for speed restriction or speed warning signs on Crosslee Road at the entrance to the Cycle Path. SCHOOLS: Councillor M Brown reported that the cabin in the playground of the Primary school was there so that classes could be decanted while electrical works were carried out. Building work has started on the extension to the Nursery. ROADS & PAVEMENTS: Councillor Maclaren reported Livery Walk recycling bins are well used and the council is reluctant to remove them. He is seeking to have them repaired, tidied up, emptied and will request that the site is kept tidy. The meeting heard of dangerous road conditions on the Johnstone Road at the bend between Burndale Workshop and Kilbarchan Cemetery the cause is water penetrating onto the roads from the fields. In freezing weather the water turns to ice. A letter has been written to the roads department to resolve this. A member of the public raised the issue of haulage vehicles parked in lay by’s in the vicinity of the village the Community Council will look into this matter. The meeting heard there is an issue between the contractor responsible for street lighting and Renfrewshire Council resulting in repairs to faulty street lights not being carried out. The Community Council hopes this matter will be resolved as soon as possible before it becomes a public safety issue. It has been brought to the attention of the Community Council that the unadopted pavement on Clevan’s Road at the boundary wall of Ranfurly Castle Golf Club is in a dangerous condition. Pedestrians have to venture on to the road, surely an unsafe practice. A letter has been written to Renfrewshire Council asking them to use whatever powers they have to rectify the problem. Kilgraston Road from Ranfurly Place to Lawmarnock Road will be closed from Monday 14 March till Sunday 17 April. This is to allow the installation of an electric cable. Diversion route: Ranfurly Place, Prieston Road, Lawmarnock Road or Vice Versa. NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 1st March at 7pm in the Cargill Hall.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

..................................................... Brookfield Art Exhibition & Sale Jimmie Macgregor MBE

march 2016

Brookfield Village Council AGM As all residents of Brookfield have an equal share in the land and property owned by the village, including the Village Hall itself, it is important to have your say, so we would really like to encourage as many residents as possible to join us on the evening of Friday, 18th March. We will be discussing the important issues of the year, sharing news from the various Clubs and Associations, as well as garnering opinion on some constitutional items. However, please don’t think this is all serious stuff, as following the AGM we will be enjoying a fun social evening with our friends and neighbours, so please do come along.

Brookfield Art Club is delighted Jimmie Macgregor is opening its annual exhibition in the Brookfield Village Hall at 7pm on Saturday 19 March.

Houston & Crosslee SWI

Jimmie, a well-known entertainer and broadcaster, is a graduate of Glasgow School of Art. He was a huge influence in the revival of folk music, performing all over the world with his late partner, Robin Hall. The duo reached a national TV audience in the early sixties appearing on the ‘Tonight’ programme and Jimmie’s later radio programme ‘Macgregor’s Gathering’ ran for ten years.

On the 9th March we welcome Hamish McKelvie, who will talk to us about “The World of Cactus Growing”. In April we have our AGM and Spring Show.

Jimmie is still going strong, with a sell-out concert in 2016 Celtic Connections and bookings for his one-man show. Having returned to his early training Jimmie has recently taken up watercolour painting, selling some of his work in a local exhibition. With over 100 paintings by local artists the Brookfield Art Club Exhibition and Sale is open for 2 days, Saturday 19 March, 6.30-8.30pm and Sunday 20 March, 12noon-4.30pm, admission £1. Refreshments.

H.O.S.T. (Houston Old School Trust)

The Carrick Centre, Houston What’s on March 2016 Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438

MONDAY Embroiderers Guild (Weekly) 10am – 12pm Yoga (Weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 Rockstar Tumbling Class (Weekly) 4:15pm Roz Hart 07734 714 131 Young Farmers 14th 7:30pm Diaporama 14th 7:30pm Handiwives 21st 7:30pm

TUESDAY Musical Theatre (Weekly) 3:30pm 5:45pm Yoga (weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Gryffebank Residents 1st 7pm Crawford Road Residents 1st 8pm WRADS 8th 7:30pm Clyde & Central YF 7pm

WEDNESDAY Leap Energy (Weekly) 10am – 3pm Paint Pot Tots ( Weekly ) 10am Dawn Campbell 07789 262 350 Galaxy Dance (weekly) 4pm Lauren 07974 285102 Councillors Surgeries 16th 6:30pm Gryffe Melody Makers 2nd & 16th 7pm Camera Club (weekly ) 7:30pm Houston Community Council 16th 7:30pm

THURSDAY Burlex Fitness (Weekly) 9:15 – 10am 07944 815 298 Gryffe Quilting Group (Weekly) 1:15 3:15 17th 10am -3pm Crafty Friends 3rd & 17th 7:30pm Folk Club (weekly) 8pm Paddybullen@ live.co.uk

SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 9:30am Lauren

FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) 10:30am M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Galaxy Dancing (weekly) 4pm Lauren MP Surgery (11th) 12:30 – 1:30pm

SUNDAY Baptist Church (weekly) 11am and 6pm 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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All our meetings are held in The Compass Centre, South Street, Houston at 7.30pm. Come along and join us, you will be made very welcome. For further information please contact, Arlene McKay on 0141 884 6210.

Houston and Killellan Kirk Carnival Star Wars is coming to Houston on Saturday May 14th - May the force be with you! It is that time of year again when on the horizon the Kirk Carnival starts to appear. This year the theme is STAR WARS which will appeal to young and not so old. With a new film released recently this should give everyone fresh ideas as to what their apparel will be on the grand day. This is an immensely successful event but in order to achieve this there is a tremendous amount of hard work involved by organisers, contributors, helping hands and all who take part. It is now the time for those with green fingers thinking about sowing seeds and getting the flowers and shrubs ready for the plant stall. Don’t forget donations of toiletries, jewellery, homebaking will all be gratefully received. Unfortunately we cannot accept electrical items or large pieces of furniture. All proceeds will go towards the new extension fund.

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DAMAGE: I was shocked by the number of bus shelters around the villages that have been damaged recently. Is the damage being caused by accident (brittle panels in cold weather), the recent high storms or acts of vandalism? You can decide. LITTER: This is an on-going problem in many areas of the villages and I will continue to chase Community Resources for a more frequent clean up including to and from the shopping areas to the local schools. It would help to improve the village image if litter was deposited in the many bins provided and not thrown away. STREET LIGHTS: Due to a dispute there is a backlog in repairs to the unprecedented number of street lights out throughout Renfrewshire. Work is currently being undertaken to reduce the backlog, and bring our street lights back on as soon as possible. ELECTIONS: To vote in the upcoming Scottish Parliamentary Elections on 5th May 2016 a person must be registered to vote. Some people may think that they are already on the register as they have voted previously but this might not be the case.You can check if you are registered by phoning the Electoral Registration Helpline on 0300 300 0150. It only takes a few minutes to register to vote. Go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or by phone to the registration helpline. To vote you must be registered by 18th of April. As it says on the slogan YOUR VOTE MATTERS - DON’T LOSE IT! AWARD CEREMONY: The winners of this year’s Provost’s Community Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony in the Paisley Town Hall on 11th of March. This year there were no nominations in any of the five categories from Houston, Crosslee or Brookfield although neighbouring villages are represented. Maybe next year. BRIDGE REPAIRS: Repairs to both sides of the stone bridge over the River Gryffe in Crosslee have been rescheduled with the work now expected to be undertaken week beginning 15th February. This may cause some traffic disruption at peak times. 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.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield ..................................................... Winter Concert Series Houston Old School Trust (HOST) is holding a series of classical music concerts in the Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston this coming winter (2016/17). As a preview to this we are holding a concert on Saturday 19th March 2016 with a performance by the Barochan Quartet. This is a string quartet of local talent, all professional musicians, and members of the B B C Symphony Orchestra. Music Programme - Mozart D Minor Quartet K421 Alexander Glasunov “Quartet Slav"; Puccini “Chrysanthemum"; a selection from “the shows”. Also for the night we are pleased to present Paula Barron, a semi professional mezzo soprano who hails from Paisley with her accompanist Jim Drennan with a programme of Light classical repertoire/ songs from the shows. Ticket prices are £12 with concessions for children and students £5. Option is also available to have a 2/3 course meal ( table service ) before the concert in our café. Two courses + coffee £15. Third course available at extra cost ( bring own booze ) We are also looking to enlist support to form a working committee to help organise /promote future concerts. To request tickets or register your interest in helping out please call the Carrick Centre 01505 229597 or e mail - thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

kilmacolm & quarriers OUTLOOK meets in the Kidston Hall at 2pm twice monthly. Everyone welcome to attend the OUTLOOK social afternoon group for the community of Kilmacolm. On 3rd March we welcome a volunteer speaker from the Scottish charity ‘Mary’s Meals’, the work has expanded in the past ten years but its aims remain the same - a cooked meal for every schoolchild in the poorest countries of the world. On 17th March we are delighted to welcome Rev Heller Gonzalez, and his wife Montse, to our group. Heller will share with us the traditions of Easter in his homeland of Spain. Plus, at each meeting, discussion of community issues, dates for the diary and Afternoon Tea. Friendship and fellowship are the basics of OUTLOOK, we hope you will give us a try!

‘Our Village’ Exhibition finds new home Kilmacolm Civic Trust are delighted to announce that ‘Our Village’, the exhibition of images created last spring by pupils from Kilmacolm Primary and St Columba’s Junior School, is now on permanent display in the first storey corridor at the Cargill Centre. Our thanks go to the Board of Kilmacolm New Community Centre for hosting the exhibition. Check out the pictures and see how much the village has changed in the last year!

Coffee Morning Saturday 5 March from 10am - 12 noon in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm (upstairs). For MND (motor neurone disease) - Ticket £3.

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Ladies Charity Night Raises £1670 The ladies who are embarking on the Houston & Killellan Kirk Pilgrimage to The Holy Land organised a very successful Ladies Charity Night. This event was held in the JG Fleming Bowling Club on Friday 22 January and its purpose was to raise funds for The Al-Shurooq School for blind children in Bethlehem. Many thanks to all those from the congregation and friends who donated prizes, provided home baking and helped out on the night. A special thanks to Robert & Joanne Craig for providing the disco free of charge, this was greatly appreciated. A special thanks to The Ladies Section of the bowling club for donations and Smartie tubes! Thanks to Irene McLaughlin for her Bingo skills and to Jean Gray for the Lucky Dips and Jackie Taylor for her paintings! The evening and other fundraisers made the magnificent total of £1670 which we will hand over to the school when we visit in February. Senior Citizens - On the 9th March Irene MacKenzie will be taking us to Canada with a talk on the her travels to the wonderful country. Moira Dunlop will be along on Wednesday 23rd March and will be showing us the art of papercraft. Guild - The Guild are nearing the end of their session. On Friday 4th March we will be hosting the World Day of Prayer in the Church at 7.30pm. A warm welcome to everyone. Mr David walker will be our guest speaker on March 1st at 7-30pm in the West Halls, he will be giving an insight to Glasgow’s Hidden Treasures. Please come along and enjoy. To end the current session we will be holding our AGM on Tuesday 15th March at 7.30pm.

..................................................... Mount Zion Church Prayer at Mount Zion Church Jesus came to bring us life in all its fullness. We believe Jesus can heal us physically and emotionally through prayer. If you would like to receive prayer for any difficulty, please contact Pastor Andy for an appointment by email, pastorandy.lunn@ntlworld.com, or come to see us on a Sunday morning at 10:30am, or at our Bible Study and Prayer Meetings on Wednesday at 7pm or Friday at 10am. We will be privileged to pray with you. There is no charge for any pastoral help given at Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village, PA11 3FD. Youth Club

For any high school age young people, our youth club has table tennis, pool, air hockey, and table football. We also play ball games, practice short dramas, and many other activities; every week we have a short talk on how the Bible can help us with our lives. Youth Club is from 6:30pm-8:30pm on Thursdays and it’s free. Easter at Mount Zion Church Please join with us as we celebrate Jesus death for our sins and His resurrection for our life! March 20 at 10.30am Palm Sunday Service; March 24 at 7pm Maundy Thursday Communion; March 25 at 2.30pm Good Friday Meditation; March 27 at 10.30am Easter Sunday Family Service followed by and Easter Brunch in aid of Mercy Ships; March 27 at 7pm The Gatherin’. The Gatherin’ The Gatherin’ is for people to come together who hunger for more of the presence of the Lord and to be fed from His word. The Gatherin’ is at 7pm on the fourth Sunday of each month, at Mount Zion Church in Quarriers Village. Please come and invite others: all welcome!

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Kilmacolm Art Class Annual Exhibition Friday 18 March (10am – 5.30pm) and Saturday 19 March (10am - 4pm). This year it is again being held in The New Community Centre, Kilmacolm, which is an exciting venue, and we hope that even more people than usual will come along to view this excellent show. There will be a large selection of paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate water colours and palate knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets Whether you are looking for contemporary, abstract or just an original art work to brighten your home, this could be the ideal opportunity. Please do come along and support the exhibition.

“Haymaking - Tuscany”

One of Jim Wood’s latest original oil paintings which can now be viewed in ‘Threads’, Kilmacolm.

Entrance-Adults £1, Children over 5 years- 50p The art class meets on Thursday morning and afternoon in St Fillans church hall with a resident retired art teacher (Tom Murray) in attendance to help and give advice or moral support. New members at all levels would be most welcome for the next session. The morning class is currently full and applicants would be placed on a waiting list. There are a few vacancies in the afternoon class beginning in October 2016. Contact Janice Sinclair, Secretary Tel-01505 873141 or ask at the Exhibition for more information.

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Diaporama February was Gerry and Hugh’s night. Between them they had 12 audiovisual sequences for us to see - some old, others new. They mainly covered different topics but where the subjects did overlap there was a very different approach. They decided to alternate the shows. We started with a look at the history and making of ‘Whisky’ including making whiskey in the USA! We then went to warmer areas of the world visiting ‘San Francisco’ to look at the streets. Buildings, ships and Alcatraz , ‘Petra, the Rose Red City’ in Jordan with its beautiful buildings, and ‘Curacao’ seeing its colourful town. We went sailing in an ‘Caribbean Odyssey’ going round the islands and visited the Greek islands in the ‘Ionian Sea’. We had a tour round ‘Barbados’. We saw two very different gardens -’Butchand Gardens’ on Vancouver Island and ‘St Vincent Botanical Gardens’ - both very interesting but very different. Back home we saw beautiful vintage cars at Holyrood House in ‘Concours of Elegance’. And took to the sea in ‘Kayak in the Isles’. We went very close to home with ‘Irn Bru’ - a look at the Sustrans volunteers clearing up the rubbish and collecting the glass Irn Bru bottles. Each bottle returned gave 30p back and this was put towards the Christmas meal - unfortunately this (30p) doesn’t happen any more! The March meeting sees ‘Les Girls risqué reprise’ - should be a funfilled evening!! It is held in the Carrick Centre, Houston on Monday 14th March at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome. Photos all by Hugh Kerr

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

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

Grace Church Kilmacolm is on the move…

Despite the recent fire, work is progressing well and on schedule on the refurbishment of Kilmacolm Primary School. Despite press reports to the contrary, the £4.3m cost of these works is being fully underwritten by the Council at present. We have been promised some funding from the Scottish Government but the extent of it is as yet unknown.

From Sunday 3 April 2016 onwards Grace Church will meet for worship at 10.30am in the Kilmacolm Guide Hut, off Woodrow Avenue. We wish to express our sincere thanks to the Kilmacolm Scouts for allowing us the use of their Hut on Barr’s Brae over the past 8 months. Our final service in the Scout Hut will be our Easter Service at 10.30am on Sunday 27 March 2016, when Mr Innes Macsween (student for ministry in the Free Church) will be our guest preacher. A warm welcome is extended to all to join with us at any of our services.

Work on the resurfacing of Port Glasgow Road, Kilmacolm from the Auchenbothie Road junction to Woodrow Avenue is due to commence on 16 March. There will obviously be significant disruption during the period of these works but we’re sure it will be worth it. The Council has taken the unprecedented decision to delay setting its budget until 10 March to allow us more time to find ways of mitigating the huge funding cut of £6.6m imposed on us by the Scottish Government. Normally the Council sets its budget in February.

We are endeavouring to protect jobs and frontline services as best we can for the next two years. Beyond that there will undoubtedly be severe cuts unless the people of Scotland are prepared to pay more in tax to fund the current levels of public services. The Council did take the decision on 18 February to freeze the Council Tax for the ninth successive year. You will however see your bills rise as the Scottish Government has approved an increase in Water and Sewerage charges. The Council simply acts as a collection agent for Scottish Water and has no control over the level of charges. The Kilmacolm Civic Trust (KCT) Annual General Meeting will take Grace Church is a preaching station under the supervision of Dowanvale Free Church of Scotland, Glasgow (a registered charity in Scotland: SC038274).

Kilmacolm Civic Trust – AGM

place at the Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm on Tuesday 22nd March, starting at 7pm.

7pm - 7.40pm - Formal AGM Business, all members are invited to attend, followed by: 7.45pm - 8.45pm an illustrated talk by the renowned Scottish sculptor, Dr Andy Scott, creator of ‘The Kelpies’ as well as numerous public and private commissions in the UK and around the world. He’ll be talking about his artwork, concepts and commissions that are on display in Scotland. The talk is open to all members of the KCT and to residents of Kilmacolm, Quarriers Village and the surrounding area who are not members of the Kilmacolm Civic Trust. Nonmembers will be very welcome and should join us just after 7.40pm.

Councillor McColgan

My surgeries this month are on Tuesday 1 March, 6–7pm, in Kilmacolm Community Centre and Tuesday 15 March, 6–7pm, in Boglestone Community Centre, Port Glasgow. You can reach me on 01475 712727 (during office hours) and 07881280016 (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 I have one surgery this month are on Tuesday 22 March, 6-7pm, in Boglestone Community Centre, Port Glasgow. 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.

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It was great to see that the Scottish Government announced that they are providing funding for the refurbishment of Kilmacolm Primary School as part of their continuing commitment towards the building of new schools and refurbishments of others throughout Scotland. KPS will receive a share of the Scottish Government’s £230 million investment, as part of the final phase of the £1.8 billion “Schools for the Future” programme. This funding shows that the Scottish Government are continuing to work hard alongside councils to improve educational standards and provide good quality learning environments. Sadly in many parts of Ward 1, I hear a number of complaints about dog dirt not being lifted by owners. As a dog owner myself I am dismayed when I hear this. The council have put up a number of dog bins throughout the district and I have also been told if there are no dog bins nearby then black bins can be used.

I have again received complaints from residents on Park Road in Kilmacolm that some parents are parking their cars across driveways while dropping off/picking up children from St Columba’s Junior School. I would urge drivers to be more considerate and not park across residents driveways. The recent storms with heavy rain and strong winds made it was difficult for many people to get on with their daily lives but we should spare a thought for many council staff who worked long hours to ensure we were able to keep moving. I would like to thank them for all their hard work. My next surgeries in March will be advertised in the local newspaper, on the Inverclyde Council website and my surgery posters. I can be contacted between surgeries on 01475 712727 or my mobile 07747 765 839 or email: jim.macleod@inverclyde.gov.uk or writing to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock, PA15 1LY.

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My wife, Lorraine , and I officiated at the Festival Final Concert in Greenock Town Hall at the conclusion of the two weeks of the nationally recognised Inverclyde Music Festival, now in its 91st year. Throughout there were considerable numbers of competitors from Kilmacolm Primary, Port Glasgow High School and St Columba’s senior and junior. There were some outstanding performances notably from Cameron Stark (piping), Rowan MacKillop and Catriona Faint (singing), Poppy Pitts (instrumental), Nicola Craig (brass) and Mathew McIlree (piano) who all won major awards. Mathew won the Andrew B Cockle Trophy for the best performer in the Festival. His winning piece by Ginastera brought the audience to its feet. St Colms are fortunate to have Mathew playing the organ at their services. I attended a Steel Cutting Ceremony at Ferguson’s Yard in Port Glasgow. The Dunnet family kept shipbuilding operating in the lower Clyde for many years and the mantle has now been passed on to Jim McColl. We wish him good fortune in what will be a battle to compete internationally for ship orders. TOXICARIASIS is an infection of the eye caused by roundworm in parasites spread to humans via dog dirt. A constituent’s son has contracted the disease and has been in danger of losing the sight in one of his eyes. He has attended both IRH and Yorkhill Children’s Hospital. His GP, Dr Mike Mutch said “The youngster could have lost his eyesight if this infection had not been diagnosed. Once the damage is done, it’s done”. The family does not have a dog and it is likely he contracted the infection when playing in common grass areas. There is only a small minority who nowadays do not pick up their dog’s dirt especially in common grass areas and woods where children are liable to play. The current fine is £40, and given the dangers of infection, I am campaigning for a £100 fine. My Conservative colleague in Renfrewshire Council, Cllr James McLaren, has joined the Board of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park as one of Renfrewshire’s representatives. As vice-chair, I welcome James, and as a keen cyclist he will be able to contribute to the Park’s ambitious plans for cycle access throughout the Park. No news yet about the public inquiry into the windfarm in the Park at Corlic Hill. I have attended far too many funerals recently but it never fails to amaze me that no matter how well you think you know somebody there is always a surprise or two in the eulogy. Kilmacolm Golf Club is celebrating its 125th Anniversary this year and Marcus Humphrey House in Quarriers its 25th. I look forward to attending functions at both and wish Captain Colin McGinn and the management at the Home Gods speed in their important year. The Burns season is almost over, my last event is the Immortal Memory at the Bishopton Rangers Supporters Club annual Burns Supper which is being held in Inchinnan. I know the other speakers and it should be a right good night to finish off the season. My surgeries are 17th March Cargill 11-12 and 22nd March St Francis Primary 5-6. I can be contacted at david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk and 01475 712727 and 741969 and 07766 992294.

Kilmacolm Community Cleanup Saturday 2 April - car park outside the Pullman, 10am Why not come along and help clean up a few areas in and around Kilmacolm? Volunteers of all ages (“under-16s” please be accompanied by an adult) welcome, to spend a couple of hours picking up rubbish along the roads leading into the village. Inverclyde Council will provide litter pickers, bags, hi-viz clothing, and disposable gloves. Depending on how many we are, we’ll split into teams, and each team will be assigned to clean up a specific and reasonably sized area. I’m also looking for 3-4 volunteers with vehicles to help with transportation to and from outlying locations. Meet in the car park outside the Pullman, just at the entrance to the cycle track, at 10am. Wear weather-appropriate clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, and comfortable walking shoes. You may also want to bring heavier work gloves, and mobile phones. If the weather brings horizontal rain (or other abysmal conditions), we’ll cancel; otherwise, be prepared for sun (we can hope!), wind, light rain, etc. Please call Karen on 874656 to sign up -- especially if you can be a driver -- so we can plan for the areas we’ll be able to cover.

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Kilmacolm launches Heritage Centre company Following presentations to Kilmacolm New Community Council and Kilmacolm Civic Trust and with the backing of all four Councillors and extensive local discussions, an application was made to form a company with the Registrar of Companies, who has now issued a Certificate of Incorporation in respect of Kilmacolm Heritage Centre Company, a company limited by guarantee. The company’s objectives are: • To support the stimulation of local and Inverclyde economic, social and cultural regeneration. • To form a single issue community organisation committed to setting up and running a physical heritage presence and focus in Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village and environs. • To encourage and maintain community interests and enthusiasm and reconnect it with its heritage in Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village and environs. • To advance education. • To assist in developing the tourist trade. • To assist in generating and encouraging business in Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village. • To promote and encourage community cohesion. An Executive Board is being established, made up mainly from the principal community organisations including Inverclyde Council, Kilmacolm Civic Trust, Kilmacolm Community Council, Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Ltd and Quarriers. It is anticipated that the inaugural meeting of the Board will take place within the next three to four weeks to confirm the appointment of Board Members, etc. It is intended that Kilmacolm and Quarriers communities will be regularly kept abreast of developments. Copies of the Certification of Incorporation and Memorandum and Articles of Association can be obtained from Kingsley Wood & Co, Solicitors, Burnside Chambers, Kilmacolm.

Joy for St Fillan’s Angel Voices Choir! The Children’s Choir gave a good performance at the Inverclyde Festival of Music with their two songs and retained the Peter Pan Chalice for the Under 11’s Mixed Choir Class. The Choir gained higher marks than last year showing year on year progress. There were also successes for members of the choir in the individual solo classes. New members of boys and girls from around 7years upwards are always welcome to join. Rehearsals 6-7pmFridays in St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm – contact Maureen Russell 01505872905 or email: maureenmrussell@hotmail.com

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

howwood & elderslie ..................................................... A couple of days before I wrote this article, the council came to an agreement over this years budget. I will update readers on the details in April's issue of the Advertizer. I recently attended an event showcasing the work of Active Communities. They are a mainly voluntary organisation that involve local people in activities that stimulate the mind and body and its great to see people who wouldn’t normally take part in these type of things enjoying them, so well done to everyone involved. As you know new shops are about to open in Spateston and one of the shopkeepers has applied to open Post Office services within their shop. Although not based in the village I'm sure it will be well used by the people of the village.

ANNUAL VILLAGE CLEAN-UP - Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 April The annual village clean up organised by the Community Council is being held on the weekend of 16/17 April any help would be greatly appreciated. A wee word of warning. Whilst out leafleting for the Scottish elections I have noticed a lot of mail hanging out of letter boxes and post boxes so I would urge people to keep an eye on this for obvious reasons. I’ll close now by reminding you my monthly surgery is held in the village hall on the 4th Thursday of the month between 6pm and 7pm.

Howwood SWI Tuesday 15th March - Colourful Gardening by Douglas Fraser, Dundonald Garden Centre. Competition - Flower Ornament; Hostesses - Morag Wills & Nana Glen; Vote of Thanks - Nana Glen. Meetings in Howwood Village Hall at 7.30pm. Subscription £18 per annum

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SCHOOL CROSSING: Following a recent traffic incident I have asked Renfrewshire Council to review the operation of the informal crossing at Kilbarchan primary school which was established in October 2014. I have asked that the school, parents and local residents are involved in the review. ROAD REPAIRS: I am pleased to report that a significant stretch of Wheatlands Drive in Kilbarchan was completed at the beginning of the month. This was held over from the autumn due to bad weather but residents have reported that they are pleased with the results. ATM PROBLEMS: In Lochwinnoch there have been problems caused by the recent failure of the ATM cash machine. At the time of writing, there seems to be a dispute about whose responsibility it is for repairs. I have written to RBS to seek clarification and reassurance regarding the ATMs reliability in the future. PROSPECTIVE DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION - Tue 15 March: Renfrewshire Council has informed me that it has received a proposal of application notice regarding a prospective major residential development at Barrhill crescent Kilbarchan. This is not a specific planning application for permission. The prospective developers are required to hold a public consultation and this will take place on Tuesday 15 March between 2pm and 8pm at the Old Library. I would urge as many villagers as possible to attend the event, and to take the opportunity to consider carefully what is being proposed, and to express their views direct to the applicant. FLOODING: I have been made aware of the issue of episodes of flooding on the approach to Lochwinnoch station, which has meant some passengers being unable to use the station. I have asked both Scotrail, and Renfrewshire Council to look into the matter to ascertain what can be done to ease the problem. My next surgeries will be on Saturday 5th March 9am in the Mckillop Institute and 10am in the Steeple Hall. Meantime please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007.

Kilbarchan Lilias Day Fundraiser Well it’s that time of year again and plans are well and truly on the way for an amazing Lilias Day 2016! We are happy to announce that Victoria Thompson has agreed to be Miss Lilias for 2016 as she didn’t get to carry out her duties in 2015. We are hitting the ground running thanks to Seona Hart and her fantastic fundraising events. Miss Lilias 2016 - Victoria Thompson Seona is running a quiz night on 12th March at 7.30pm in the Guide Hall in support of Lilias day so we can put on an even better show. Please come along to what will be a great night and support Lilias Day.

Stall Holders meeting - Tuesday 15 March The date has been set! Come and book your stalls on Tuesday 15th March at Kilbarchan Old Library Centre. Stalls booked on the night receive 10% off.

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march 2016

Scottish Country Lochwinnoch Dance Classes SWI

Kilbarchan Parish Church Easter Eggstravaganza

Tuesdays in the McKillop Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm.

This popular event takes place on Saturday 19th March in the church halls and grounds, off Steeple Square. There will be an Easter egg hunt and egg/bonnet decorating competitions for the children. Entrance is £2.50, children £1 and includes tea/coffee and hot cross buns. There will be stalls with home-baking, preserves and Easter gifts. This is the first fundraising event of the new Parish Church, please come along and enjoy the fellowship.

Hall,

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

Coffee Morning Guide Centre, Kilbarchan Saturday 2 April - 10am-12 Noon Hosted by OES Glentyan Chapter -Tickets £2.50 - adults, Under 12s Free (Children must be accompanied by an adult). Crafts, Home Baking, Raffles and more. Come and enjoy a coffee, home baked cakes and a browse round our craft/sales tables.

Our next meeting of the Lochwinnoch SWI is on Wednesday 16th March in the McKillop Hall at 7.30. This month we are indulging in a bit of nostalgia when Isobel Montgomerie will be giving a talk on “Rural Memories”. This will be interesting to both new and old members. We look forward to welcoming members and guests with tea and cake as well. Any further information please contact, Elma Richmond Tel : 843193 or richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

Do you want the skills to help save a life?? Lead by Lochwinnoch and Howwood Heart Start We have more dates available for the FREE two hour course in 2015.

Tuesday 15th March 2-4pm, Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch If you are inserted in attending contact 01505843183 The course is practical and deals with; • An unconscious casualty • How to use a AED • Choking Dr Morag Thow

Morag on morag.Thow@gcu.ac.uk or

• Cardiac arrest • Suspected heart attack • Serious bleeding

Easter in Kilbarchan Parish Church The Senior Choir, along with members of the Junior Choir will lead the Maundy Thursday Service on 24th March at 7pm, when John Rutter’s “Mass of the Children” will be sung during worship, followed by the Sacrament of Holy Communion. There will be services at 7pm on Good Friday, 25th March and on Easter Sunday, 27th, at 11am.

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Kilbarchan Habbies’ Annual Art Exhibition Kilbarchan Habbies art class will be holding their annual art exhibition on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April. The exhibition will be held, as usual, in the Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan. Opening times are Saturday 10am 5pm and Sunday 10am - 4pm. There will be our usual display of over 100 paintings in various mediums which our members have worked on throughout the year. If you are looking for something to fill that empty space on the wall, a special unique gift for someone, or just want to while away a pleasant hour or so, this is the place to be. There are prices to suit all pockets. In addition, you will also find some very attractive crafts for sale. We have a wonderful array of home baking in the tea room, so sit and have a chat and a reviving cup of tea or coffee. You can also try your luck in the raffle /tombola. There are lots of really lovely prizes to be won. We are looking forward to seeing you there.

Kilbarchan The NWR group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays. On our 2nd meeting in March, the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire will speak and we have invited guests from Bridge of Weir, Bishopton, Houston and Beith. This will take place in Kilbarchan Parish Church hall, off Steeple Square at 8pm. We also have an evening talking about the colour “green” and just before Easter, we are going to the National Gallery of Modern Art in Edinburgh. For further information, please contact the website: www.nwr.org.uk

18/02/2016 10:42:51

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

PLANNING: Planning issues are very much to the fore currently in relation to both Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, and recently the Planning Board of Renfrewshire Council rejected an application for two solar farm developments outwith Lochwinnoch. Although I am in favour of the principle of renewable energy this has to be appropriate so I think the Planning Board did the right thing rejecting this specific application.

The Planning Board at the same meeting approved a major development 267 houses on the old Merchiston Hospital site just outside Brookfield. I am very concerned about the major impact this will have for Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch commuters trying to access the A737 at rush hour, and I hope that this decision is not one which will be regretted in years to come. Currently outstanding are prospective applications for both the Branscroft and Barrhill Crescent areas of Kilbarchan, this could add to the real risk of traffic chaos at the A737, if both are approved, so I ask all constituents to make their views known, either for or against, if these applications become live. I am in no way opposed to new housing per se as housing is vital but we need a blend of both private and social housing and this is a key priority for me as an Elected Representative. I have written to the Housing Minister calling for more targeted social housing for village and rural communities to allow young people to stay in the communities they grew up in. 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.

Kilbarchan Coffee Morning Saturday, 5th March, 10am-12noon in Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall Hosted by Kilbarchan Singers from 10am ‘til 12noon in Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan.

Kilbarchan Fairtrade Fortnight There will be a Fairtrade stall in Kilbarchan Parish Church’s hall (Steeple Square) on Sunday 6th March from 12 noon until 1pm, to which all are welcome. Please come along and support producers in the developing world by giving them a fair price for their products.

Cash Boost for Kilbarchan Smile! A Kilbarchan community group has raised thousands of pounds in funds to help make improvements to the village. Kilbarchan Smile, which was only set up last year, was successful in an application for funding from the Stalled Spaces initiative designed to bring disused areas back into use by local communities. The group will use the money to kickstart a community garden project at the entrance to the village on the site of an old petrol station. In addition to this the group had their application for the Co-op Local Fund accepted and local co-op members subsequently voted for the group to receive funding to support their activities. Joint Chair of the Kilbarchan Smile, Damon Scott said: “We are delighted with the initial fundraising successes that will help us start to realise some of our ambitions for village improvements. Initially it will enable us to buy equipment and materials to make a start on the community garden by putting raised beds, shrubs and other planting areas in place.” Kilbarchan Smile is always looking for volunteers to help with the various projects it is undertaking. To get involved contact Gail Scoular on 07985749220, email gailscoular@gmail.com or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

Tickets £2.50 Various stalls, books baking & tombola.

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18/02/2016 10:43:01

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Kilbarchan Old Library MARY BARBOUR EXHIBITION: We hope you were able to find the time to visit the Mary Barbour exhibition in the Old Library. It was arranged with very short notice and we did our best to advertise the event. The makettes of the contesting sculptures were on display and a public vote for the favourite was being taken to decide which would be made into the statue of Mary. Each sculptor provided an informative text about their work. The exhibition came from the People’s Palace and was going from Kilbarchan to the Glasgow City Chambers. PROSPECTIVE DEVELOPMENT EXHIBITION: The next public event will be another display from prospective builders wanting to breach our Green Belt. This time it is the ground behind the Quarry. Low Barholm and Barrhill Crescent. If you do not want to see the Green Belt breached it is important that you attend the exhibition on Tuesday, 15th March in the Old Library open 2pm – 9pm. This will be the third building group to wish to build on the Green Belt. REGULAR ACTIVITIES: The Library activities are following the usual timetable. Details are on our web, our windows and the Community notice board. A new Computer Group is being formed and we hope to have sufficient names for a start in March. The professional tutor worked with us before and was very popular and well respected. He hopes to begin by enabling his class to progress their basic computer skills. When this is done he, being an enthusiastic photographer, wishes to encourage them to join him in taking satisfactory photographs and then using a computer to produce a pleasing image. Contact the Centre if you are interested in this new class or any of our other classes. Tel. 01505 706070 www.kipcokil.com or visit 9 High Barholm. Kilbarchan open 10-12 & 2-4 Mon to Friday.

Weaver’s Cottage NEW SEASON BEGINS: The new season at the Weaver’s Cottage begins on Friday 25th March. The Cottage will be open from 1pm to 5pm Fridays to Tuesdays until the end of September. It contains many examples of 19th century domestic furniture, paintings of weavers by the late Mary Armour and a 200 years old working loom, which belonged to the last Kilbarchan weaver, Willie Meikle. A unique feature is a showcase filled with tartan samples-as shown in the photograph. If you haven’t visited the Weaver’s Cottage, make a point of putting on your summer schedule-there’s more to it than it seems from the street. And it’s a great place to bring visitors from overseas. EASTER EGG HUNT: On Sunday 27th March, from 2pm to 4pm there is the Weaver’s Cottage Easter Egg Hunt, a family event enjoyed by children.

Lilias Day 2016 As preparations continue for Lilias Day 2016 on Saturday 4 June local charities and organisations are being reminded of the ways they can get involved in this years’ event and the important events, dates and times coming up:

Kilbarchan Parish Church Services on Sundays begin at 11am and are conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. Sunday School and the crèche meet in the large hall from 10.45am. All children will be made most welcome. The Mid-week Fellowship meets in the small hall on Wednesdays from 10.30am. During the week, there are a great many church organisations using the halls:

•

Mondays: Tots’ Club, Junior Choir, Drama Group and Men’s Club

•

Tuesdays: Guild, Stitching Group, Country Dancing

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Wednesdays: Mid-week Fellowship, Church Choir, Stage crew

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Thursdays: Badminton

Take a stall

•

Fridays: Boys’ Brigade

Charities and local groups can secure a 10% discount by coming along to the stall-holders night on Tuesday 15th March, 7pm, at the Old Library. Please note that this year (just in the case of adverse weather) contingency plans have been made to accommodate stalls in the numerous indoor venues in Kilbarchan.

The church is also used by the Choir on Wednesdays, Kilbarchan Singers on Mondays and Village Voices on Tuesdays.

Be part of the parade – all welcome! Costume fittings - Sunday 20th March, 12–3pm, The Old Library – including new characters such as the Statue of liberty and William Brodie (the stonemason who laid the foundation stone of the statue of liberty who was from Kilbarchan), Mary Barbour and Robert Semple.

Book a table at the fundraising quiz night Saturday 12th March 7.30pm, The Guide Centre, £5 per head, BYOB

Enter a street / local organisation float Make sure your street/ local organisation doesn’t miss out on the fun and the chance to compete for the coveted title of best float (£100 first prize).

Decorate your house or premises Decorate your house or premises to brighten up the village. Make sure you notify us to ensure that the judges see your masterpiece.

Enter the Raffle Buy a book of Lilias Day Raffle tickets with £1000 cash prize. Tickets on sale in local shops from 1st March. For more information email info@liliasday.co.uk or message us from the “Kilbarchan Lilias Day” page on Facebook.

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18/02/2016 10:43:05

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‘Wizzi’ is Missing!

‘Wizzi’ escaped from a car beside Kilbarchan Vets on Friday 5th February. Reports have been made of possible sightings in various parts of the Village, and as far as Spateston, but so far he has not been recaptured. Please contact Ailsa Russell 07970 126366 with any information at all.

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Lamont Farm Appeal Please support your local Community Charity, Lamont Farm Project, by donating to its “Pledge a Pound” Appeal and sharing this appeal on its behalf. The Farm’s situation is becoming desperate and it urgently needs your support to help it through this very difficult time. Please pledge whatever you can and help it reach its target of £1000 by the end of this month. Have one less bag of crisps, one less coffee, one less drink at the pub, take in a packed lunch rather than buying one. Instead, please consider donating the money you save to help support the Farm. To the animals here that small individual donation will have a huge impact.

We have lots opportunities volunteer with us:

of to

FUNDRAISING HELPING A PERSON WITH SIGHT LOSS GET OUT AND ABOUT Do you have an hour spare time? We would really appreciate your help in this area. Please contact Anne Ferguson 01505 705602. Local West Renfrewshire Support Group

You can donate quickly via PayPal to trish88.tc@gmail.com. You can also donate by cash, cheque or bank transfer (call us on 0141 812 5335 for details). To feed all those animals that you love to come and visit costs a lot of money. Goat, sheep, llama and pig food costs £10 to £15/ bag and lasts ONE animal about 10 days. Horse feed is £15 per bag. Haylage is £30/ bale, straw for the animals’ bedding £20/ bale and shavings £8/ bale. Please help our animals and donate whatever you can. Thank you - Kate Admin

Pet Blog

Early recognition and treatment of hypertension is important to minimise damage to the sensitive organs.

by PetVets

Hypertension in Cats Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. It is a common condition in older cats. This can be a primary condition but is more commonly secondary to other underlying disease such as chronic kidney disease or an over active thyroid. Persistent high blood pressure causes damage to sensitive organs. Organs affected include: • Eyes: Bleeding inside the eyes and changes in the retina including retinal detachment which can lead to vision damage or blindness. This is often irreversible. • Brain and nervous system: Bleeding in these areas can cause neurological signs including odd behaviour, abnormal gait, seizures and dementia. • Heart: Thickening of the heart muscle which can lead to congestive heart failure in some cases. • Kidneys: Damage to the kidneys can lead to kidney failure and can make existing kidney disease significantly worse. Cats with hypertension can be depressed, lethargic and withdrawn at times. This is possibly due to severe headaches similar to those suffered by humans with hypertension. The most common reason for cats with hypertension being presented to a vet is sudden loss of vision.

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Helping Guide Dogs

Diagnosis is made by checking the cat’s blood pressure using a blood pressure monitor. Blood pressure should be checked regularly in cats with predisposing conditions such as chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism or heart disease. It should also be checked in cats with clinical signs consistent with damage to the sensitive organs e.g. blindness or neurological signs. Treatment of hypertension is with lifelong medication and regular monitoring to achieve a normal blood pressure. It is also important to test for underlying diseases, usually involving blood and urine tests, and to treat any conditions found. As early detection minimises damage ideally all senior cats should have regular blood pressure checks. In cats over 10 years of age we would recommend annual checks and in cats over 15 years a check every 6 months would be beneficial.

18/02/2016 10:49:33

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Re-homing Pets Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets? Moses - 6 year old male domestic cat Moses is a darling big boy with a lovely nature. He is a very cuddly boy. He loves playing with catnip and loves to eat ‘Dreamie’s’. He can be homed with older children, but no other cats or dogs. He will need access to a garden as he love to potter about outside. Buster - a 3 year old male domestic cat Buster is such a sweet natured big chap and is so loving and affectionate. He needs an Indoor home only as he is a FIV boy which just means my immune system is lower. He can be homed with older children, other FIV cats, but don’t know about the doggy thingies. Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341

Rascal & DJ - 1-2 year old male Guinea Pigs Rascal and DJ are a very inquisitive pair and one of their favourite pastimes is to run from one den to the next. They are a really friendly duo who love to be cuddled. These guys would make a great addition to any family willing to give them the love and attention they deserve. Woody - a 2-3 year old male domestic cat Woody needs access outdoors as he loves to sit outside. He is a young boy who would enjoy playing and exploring. All Woody wants is a fun life and someone to love him. He would thrive on attention and would suit a home with older children. To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit www. scottishspca.org/rehoming

Oscar - an 8+ year old male Crossbreed Oscar is a gorgeous boy who still loves to play ball games. He loves attention and a nice treat! Oscar can live with children who are 14 years old or over and needs his own secure garden to potter in and practice his training. A home who is around all day with quiet areas to walk in would benefit him as he can be worried when left alone. Oscar is ok with other dogs, but would need careful introductions to new friends.

Dogs & Mogs A charity that trains guide dogs in Scotland has welcomed some unusual new arrivals – two 20-weekold kittens. The strange pairing came about after Guide Dogs charity contacted Cats Protection before Christmas looking for two cats to come and live at its school in Forfar where they would become part of the training programme for new dogs. Following discussions with Cats Protection’s Arbroath and Clackmannanshire branches, a confident pair of kittens called Arthur and Charlie were found to replace cats Belle and Tinker who were formerly at the centre. Sharyn Wood, Co-ordinator for Cats Protection’s Arbroath & Carnoustie Branch, said: “It was an unusual request but Arthur and Charlie are such cheeky boys we were sure they would be ideal. As many of us know, dogs and cats can live in harmony if the right training is in place so this is a great idea.” Those wishing to adopt a cat from Cats Protection (dog friendly or otherwise) can visit www.cats.org.uk or call the charity’s helpline on 03000 12 12 12 to find the nearest branch or adoption centre. For more about Guide Dogs, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk.

Canines Against Cancer Dog Walk Please come and support our dog walk on Easter Monday (Monday 28th March) from 11am - 1pm at Gryffeside Farm, Kilmacolm. We have been running our Buck Off Cancer campaign for 3 years now and have raised £27,000 for Cancer Research UK. To help us take this figure to £40,000 in 2016 we have formed Canines Against Cancer. We would love you to bring your dog to our farm on Easter Monday and enjoy a walk over our hill (big fields to run around). The scenery and views are stunning and there is the added incentive of Easter eggs to keep you going! You can also have some fun trying our ‘have a go’ agility course. Throw in a hot drink and some homebaking and Bob’s your uncle! To help us raise funds we are asking for a £10 donation (payable on the day). We can also tell you everything that we have planned for Canines Against Cancer in 2016.

Sheba - a 1-2 year old female German Shepherd Sheba is the most beautiful big girl. She loves games with toys and carrying teddies! Sheba can live with children who are 16 years old or over and needs her own secure garden with a high fence to practice her training in. Someone who has experience of owning German Shepherds before would benefit her and help her settle. She is a bit worried in new situations so would need a calm, quiet home to give her the time and space she needs to settle. 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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PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE SHORT PARTS OF THE ROUTE WHERE ALL DOGS MUST BE KEPT ON LEADS AS THE WALK WILL TAKE YOU CLOSE TO HEAVILY PREGNANT SHEEP.

18/02/2016 10:49:40

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Challenge yourself with Pedal the Park 2016 Support CLIC Sargent on Sunday 24 April After the success of the first Pedal the Park event in April 2015, Clyde Muirshiel and Ride 63 Community Cycling Club are excited to confirm the date for 2016, Sunday 24 April. Back again will be the sportive ride, with new longer alternative option and para cycling time trials. The organisers are delighted to be welcoming charity partner CLIC Sargent to the event with £5 of the £15 entry fee going to help children and their families suffering from cancer. CLIC Sargent Fundraising Manager for Inverclyde, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire & the Scottish Borders Katie Grier said: “It is exciting to be involved in an event that sees the local community coming together for children and young people with cancer. Between April 2014 and April 2015 CLIC Sargent were able to support 29 families across Inverclyde and Renfrewshire alone.” Pedal the Park is a cycling event comprising of a number of different rides to suit the intermediate to advanced cyclist. For the road bikers there will be a ‘Classic 75km’ sportive and new for 2016 a ‘Challenge 100km’. Both routes go roughly around the Regional Park boundary, taking in the beautiful moorland and Clyde coast scenery.

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Also returning for Pedal the Park 2016 will be the para cycling ride, this ride opens the event up to a wider audience and includes a time trial route along the level cycle track participants will use a wide range of adapted cycles such as trikes and handbikes. How do you enter? The British Cycling online entry is https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/ details/137500/Pedal-the-Park-Sportive-2016 or search ‘Pedal the Park 2016’ on google or British Cycling (BC) website. Participants don’t need to join BC but must register (it’s free) on the site to book their place. The sportive has been graded as ‘Challenging’ by the British Cycling Grading system. There is also a postal entry method. All of the ride options and prices are on the event homepage hosted by Clyde Muirshiel - http:// www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/things-to-do/cycling/pedalthe-park/. Pedal the Park 2015 was the first big event organised by recently established community cycling club based primarily in Lochwinnoch, Ride 63. Since its conception in October 2013, the group have held regular ride outs and social gatherings. They are made up of enthusiastic local mountain bikers, road cyclists and a couple of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park’s Outdoor Activity Team. Ride 63 was set up to help develop new off road trail rides for cyclists in the area covered by Ordnance Survey map 63, where Clyde Muirshiel lies.

18/02/2016 09:57:45

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Kilmacolm Camera Club Our season continued with another internal competition, the subject being “Flowers.” This was judged by Douglas Harris, of Queen’s Park Camera Club. In the Print Section, Janice Stevenson came first, with “Fern Head”. Bill Ham was second, with “Daffodil Field.” Janice also came third, with “Hellebore.” In the Digital Section, Bill Ham was first, with “Snowdrops.” David Addison came second, with “Echinacea and Bee.” John Watson was third, with “Fife Field.” The digital images are all shown here.

PHOTOGRAPHY HINTS & TIPS

With The Studio Bridge Of Weir

WHITE BALANCE - The colour of light. You will have noticed that on a cold, snowy, winters day your pictures reflect that look and appear slightly blue. When photographing sunsets or sunrises there is a lovely orange / red glow to your images. When photographing inside your house without using flash everything take on an orange cast, while turning on the flash makes things a little bit more blue and cold looking. This is because the “COLOUR” of daylight is not a constant and varies depending on the time of day, your location on the planet with respect to the equator, and the prevailing weather conditions. The same goes for artificial light - Tungsten bulbs have an orange tinge, Fluorescent tubes have a green tinge, Street lights have a yellow tinge. Your camera flash is meant to simulate “Standard Daylight” at noon outside Kodak’s factory in the USA. In the days of film you had to use the correct type of film for shooting in different lighting conditions or add filters to correct for the colour cast of artificial lighting. Your modern digital camera measures the colour of the light it sees and corrects for it automatically using a feature called WHITE/ COLOUR BALANCE.

It was encouraging to see a nice spread of names on the Roll of Honour, not to mention, a nice reminder of what flowers looked like (summer seems a long time ago!).

You can choose an automatic setting or you can choose a variety of presets. Daylight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent.

Last month, we also had a show from David Walker. He showed us a selection of topics, designed to illustrate how to a) improve “lost cause” images; b) to get “action” into your shots; and c) to just have fun with your hobby. Too many “lost cause” images in your portfolio? Come along and find out how to improve them. 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/

Langbank Camera Club The print competition for February was “Glorious Glasgow”. We had many excellent images of Glasgow submitted for the competition ranging from city/street views to river views plus a few exceptions to add to the variety. Two images submitted by Derrick McPherson were awarded first place, “Buchanan Street” and “Glasgow Harbour”. Third place was awarded to James Goodall for his image of the Monteath Mausoleum in Glasgow’s hilltop necropolis.

Daylight

Cloudy

Tungsten

Fluorescent

If you choose a preset you need to remember that you have set it. Even if you switch your camera off and on again it will remember your setting. The above image was shot in DAYLIGHT conditions then the white balance was adjusted to show the impact of shooting on the wrong setting. The camera’s AUTO setting is usually very accurate. But sometimes choosing CLOUDY or SHADE when shooting in daylight warms the image up slightly. See the difference between the first and second shot. 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

where we showcase images on the big screen. We also discuss many topics and aspects of photography with tutorials and videos in support. The March (print) meeting will be held as usual on the second Monday of the month, 14th March at 7.30pm. The next PDI meeting will be held on 28th March at 7.30pm. The print competition topic for March is “ Green with Envy”. This month’s presentation was a whistle stop tour of mainland Indonesia and the island of Bali. Phil O’Brien, one of our members, has spent many years in Asia and provided us with a look at local life and the fantastic scenery from this part of the world. Our PDI (digital) meeting provides a different forum for our members

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Club meetings are held in Langbank Church Halls, Langbank. Visitors are always welcome at any of our evenings. 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.

18/02/2016 09:57:53

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Kilmacolm Horticultural Soc KHS will hold their March Lecture on Wednesday 16th March at 7.30pm in Kilmacolm New Community Centre. Louise Bustard, senior curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens returns as our very special guest speaker. The lecture is entitled ‘Holland Home of Horticulture’ and promises a wealth of vivid spring colours in fields of flowers, plus the history of growth of the Dutch flower industry. The KHS Spring Bulb Competition will take place following the lecture - bring along your exhibits of daffodils, tulips, spring bulb selection - to be judged by the illustrious Louise who will present the Jimmy Whittet Trophy to the winner. Refreshments served. Everyone welcome, come along, bring your friends to enjoy this superb evening, an event not to be missed!

Kilbarchan Beekeepers Depending on the weather, March is when we start to see Honeybees more active as they collect nectar and pollen from early sources, such as aconites, crocus and hellebore. This allows the queen to start laying eggs, producing the new honeybees that are needed to replace the older dying ones who have overwintered in the hive with her. February’s Kilbarchan and District Beekeeping Association (KBA) meeting welcomed a few new members to the group and enjoyed a presentation by Alan Riach, the Scottish Beekeepers Association Education Convener, on Honeybee Anatomy. After the presentation, Alan awarded Peter Stromberg his Expert Beemaster Certificate, which is the highest certificate awarded by the SBA for completing 8 separate module exams and an advanced practical. Well Done Peter! Interested? If you are interested in beekeeping for yourself or the whole family, Contact Helena Jackson, the Kilbarchan and District Beekeepers Association Secretary via e-mail Helena.Jackson72@sky.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. To find out more about Honeybee husbandry and related topics, drop in to find out more at one of the remaining winter season meetings below, or contact us to come along to one of the Apiary visits in the Spring. Evening Programme 2015/16

Daytime Programme 2016/17

8th March - A to Z of Swarm Control Phil McAnespie

8th May - Apiary Visit 1 Ian Craig

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5th June - Apiary Visit 2 Duncan MacGilp

18/02/2016 09:58:03

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Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park Pedal the Park 2016 – Sun 24 Apr We are proud to announce that this year Pedal the Park’s oﬃcial charity partner is CLIC Sargent with £5 from every entry going to children’s cancer. There’s 2 sportive options Classic 75km and a Challenging 100km to choose from - just £15 entry fee. Also returning will be para cycle ride. Sign up through British Cycling online and join the 100 riders already booked on! If you would like to get involved but don’t fancy the cycling part then the event organisers are also looking for volunteers to marshal the sportive rides in particular. These people are essential to ensure the rider’s safety along the route. If you would like to help then get in touch with the event organisers by emailing routes@clydemuirshiel.co.uk New CMRP Branching Out Leaders Trained The Regional Park’s Ranger Service have delivered 17 hugely successful woodland activity programmes for mental health referrals since 2010. In February we delivered our second course for Leaders of the programme, training up 12 new leaders! Is mental health your profession? Contact us about programmes for your clients. Easter Multi-Activity Courses Sign up your little adventurers for some kayaking, canoeing, sailing, archery and more! Full day sessions from Mon 4th – Fri 8th Apr and Mon 11th – Fri 15th Apr. £160 for 8-15 yr olds. Last Stargazing of the Season on March 11th Join us at Muirshiel Country Park from 19.00 – 21.00 hrs for some cosmic exploration at Renfrewshire’s darkest sky. Last chance until next season! Volunteer Marshals Wanted!

Brown hares are a common sight in and around Parkhill Woods and now is the time we see the females boxing off the males in what is known as the ‘Mad March hare’s dance’. Hares and rabbits are two species that are often overlooked in wildlife coverage. The group dynamics, especially with rabbits, shows that they aren’t always the harmonious creatures that we tend to believe. The foxes and the badgers should now have cubs. I have never managed to film at a fox earth as the foxes in the area are alot more nervous of humans than in the towns and cities. If they detect a human presence they will often move the cubs to another earth and I avoid any known earths to stop this from happening. We did have foxes breeding in the badger’s satellite sett back in 2013 but the male badger paid a visit and the foxes weren’t seen again. The badgers don’t mind me visiting the sett to see how they are getting on and hopefully we will see signs that Tufty has successfully had cubs on the cameras soon. Events The next Swan Chats, where you can pop along and find out more about the swans and wildfowl at Castle Semple Loch, takes place on Sat the 5th and Sun the 5th of March between 14.00 and 15.00 hrs. Keep an eye on the website and notice boards in the Park as returning later in the year will be Otter Spotter and After Dark walks and some new wildlife themed activities including camera trapping workshops. More Info… Details can be found on the Park’s 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. Talks to groups can be arranged.

Interested in cycling but not enough time to train for Pedal the Park? Be a volunteer marshal for the day! Even if you only have a couple of hours on Sun 24th Apr email routes@clydemuirshiel.co.uk with your availability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Duke of Edinburgh Programmes at Clyde Muirshiel

CMRP Online

The Park has expanded our range of expeditions and skills to suit Duke of Edinburgh participants of all abilities. 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!

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

HAYLEY DOUGLAS Countryside Ranger – CMRP tel 01505 842 882 Ex 25.

Ride 63 Club News We now have a list of main ride for 2016 the season, from Applecross to Arran and everything inbetween!. Email the Secretary at ridesixtythree@ gmail.com to become a member, we can send you a form – it’s FREE. Windows on Wildlife The Clyde Muirshiel 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. Countryside Ranger Hayley Douglas gives us an update Wildlife News Well the snowdrops and daffodils have bloomed and the herons have built their nests at the top of the Johnshill. Is it safe to say that spring has come? The roe deer still have their winter coats and I was reminded recently at how effective they are at blending into their surroundings as one walked off the Muirshiel track into the piles off dead bracken and rosebay willowherb.

Regular Events Mondays (but not public holidays) Lochwinnoch Community Walks meet 10.30 hrs at The Cross, Lochwinnoch. Weekly Volunteer Groups Newcomers always welcome!

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

Saturdays Greenock Cut Conservation Volunteers, Adult group, 10.30 – 14.30 hrs. Sundays Castle Semple Young Volunteers, 12-18 yr olds, 10.00 – 12.00 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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With the Spring fast approaching, the snowdrops have started to flower, making them a delightful addition to the woodland trails. The common snowdrop can grow as high as 15cm tall and flowering between January and May in the wild. Although the snowdrop is often thought of as a native British wild flower or to have been brought to the British Isles by the Romans, it was introduced or “naturalized” around the early sixteenth century. With the weather starting to change towards a slightly warmer climate, the sensory garden in front of our visitor centre will begin to bloom again. From our soft leaf holly bush right through to the lemongrass and famous curry plant, it really is a treat for the senses that should be explored on arrival at the reserve. Easter comes early this year and we have our annual Easter Eggstravaganza event on Easter Monday. Head out on a treasure hunt and see what treasures lie within the woodland trails that you can find. Decorate your egg and see if it can survive the dreaded Egg Drop Challenge. How will you decorate yours?

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society Popular speaker, Paul Matthews gave members tips and advice on how to prune our plants and look after our pruning tools. Pruning is the cruellest cut of all so some thought should be given before the work begins. Maintenance pruning is necessary after storm damage, or if the plant is diseased, overgrown or in an awkward position. Positive pruning is required to shape plants and encourage flowers and fruit. A sharp pair of secateurs is essential and Paul still uses the trusty Felco secateurs which he has had for nearly 40 years. Replacement parts are easily available and maintenance of Felco pruning tools is straightforward. A sharp cutting edge is essential for a good, smooth cut and therefore the sharp edged blade should be against the branch which is to remain. This slices neatly through the stem and against the thicker, anvil blade. The other way around and you will end up with a mashed edge. When pruning larger branches a pruning saw is best. Look for the collar-like branch bark ridge and, close to the uppermost ridge, saw straight through. To aid a clean cut the strain can be removed by coming out from the final cut position a few cm and first cutting up about halfway through the branch. A second cut from above this time and 2 or 3 cm further out will release the branch. A final 3rd cut will then allow removal of the stump with perfect control hence the name “three point cut”. When pruning to encourage new growth, be sure that the angle of the cut is on the opposite side of the bud and suﬃciently above it so there is no damage to the bud’s base. Also make your cut at an angle so that rainwater will not sit on the cut edge and instead drain away from the bud base. Pruning to shape is necessary when a plant becomes too tall, or flowers appear only at the top. Cut back to a suitable bud/node and growth will then develop from this. The mantra for pruning is “Dead, Diseased, Damaged, Decaying, Crossing and Rubbing” and if you notice any of these, then get out the secateurs. Before shaping a shrub etc., check against this list and deal with all these first. Deciduous shrubs and trees are dormant through winter and pruning can be carried out at this time with the minimum of damage but avoid frosty days. Try and finish your pruning by the end of March. Optimistic gardeners anticipate warmer weather and lighter days will bring garden plants back to life! Paul’s talk was very interesting and informative and he even brought along a large selection of pruning tools and cleaning materials. He recommends wire wool and methylated spirit for cleaning. The spirit will also prevent disease spreading, particularly if you clean your blades between plants. Our March speaker will be Lorna Campbell and “My Travels”. We meet on Thursday 10th March at 8p.m. In The Legion and, as always, guests are welcome.

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18/02/2016 09:58:14

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Kilmacolm Girlguiding

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St Benedict’s High School Business Brunch St Benedict’s High School hosted its first ‘Business Brunch’ event on the 26 January 2016. This provided a platform to develop links for the school’s employability programme.

every Monday Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers

St Benedict’s reached out to its local community to seek help and they responded. A total of 24 different businesses braved the adverse weather conditions to

McKillop Hall. 9.30am-11.30am £2/

family fee includes tea & children’s snacks.

Kilmacolm Playgroup

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

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group

Howwood Parish Church. 10am-12noon.

Kilbarchan 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.

Kilmacolm Playgroup

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Wednesday Kilmacolm Toddlers

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

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

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

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall 9.45am-11.35am

every Thursday Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30-11.30am

Kilmacolm 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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We are delighted to announce that Kilmacolm Girlguiding are the lucky group who will receive £500 from the Co-op Local Fund to go towards the development of our outside area.

attend this exciting and innovative event.

We could not have done this without the support of all our parents, friends, family and local supporters. So a big thank you to all of you that took the time to vote for our cause, and to the Co operative for giving their funds from plastic bag sales back into the community. Once spring has sprung, we will be back in action to get the development progressing again and look forward to some dry weather to enjoy using this great space.

1st B’ of Weir Scout Group The Beavers meet on a Wednesday night and have been working on Tesco’s Farm to Fork healthy eating project. This culminated in a visit to Tesco to hear all about the food journey. The will be going ten pin bowling shortly. The cubs have been really busy! They also visited Tesco and also went on a fact finding mission to Glasgow Airport. They have had a Burns Supper and are involved in the Districts 100 years of Cubs celebrations. The Scouts are braving their first weekend under canvas at Auchengillon’s Sub- Zero event along with 750 other Scouts from around Scotland. They are also planning and fundraising for their first over seas camp this summer - lots of fun activities coming up soon. Watch this space!

The school wanted to publicise both its Employability programme and the Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) which the school offers to S3 pupils. The event featured short

presentations from Head Teacher Mr O’Neil, Employability Project Leader Lynne Methven and YPI Coordinator Alistair Andrew to inform the guests of how they could help the school. The event provided an excellent networking opportunity not only for the school but for those in attendance as well. The event received an overwhelmingly positive response from the guests and many are now keen to get involved with the school to help develop its young workforce.

Duchal Nursery School We have been very lucky to have 2 visits recently from parents who have shared their knowledge of China, helping us get immersed into our Chinese New Year celebrations! We have learnt about the huge size of China and the Great Wall that can be seen from the moon, the colourful costumes, how to say our names in Chinese, and how to use chopsticks – a rather messy, but fun, snack time! The Duchal experience has been extended this term, we are now having a double helping of lunch club that now runs twice a week until 1.30pm thereby extending our hours. This is being enjoyed both by children (who love lunching with friends and the extra Duchal time) and parents for longer childcare hours!! If you would like to come and visit the Nursery and meet the teachers please contact Head Teacher Jean McCarthy on: Tel. 874358. Also visit our website at: www.duchal. com and find us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news We are now taking registrations for the summer and the new academic year, so if you have a child that is coming up to nursery age please get in touch to arrange a visit and out more about us.

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Kilmacolm Primary It’s hard to believe that January is long gone and February is nearly over.

Already this session P4 visited the Science Centre and P5 have visited Amazonia in relation to their topic work in class. Some of our boys & girls took part in a Cross Country event, returning exhausted and completely muddy from their run. Well done to all the pupils, parents and staff who braved the wind, rain and freezing temperatures. At this time of the year we have a variety of entries to Inverclyde Music Festival. Our nursery, P1 and P2 classes all took part in the Action Songs and as usual performed confidently, making us so very proud. Our P1 class were exceptional and won their class, excitedly bringing home a shiny trophy to display. Samantha Todd P7 and Poppy Paterson P6 took part in the vocal solos and both sang beautifully, with Samantha earning 1st place and earning us our second trophy! Well done to both girls. Anna McGowan P7, won 1st place with her violin solo, Samantha Todd & Anna McGowan took 1st & 2nd place respectively in the verse sight reading, with many of our P6 & P7 pupils performing confidently in a class we had not e n t e r e d before. In vocal duets four of our P6 girls, Ruby, Camilla, Elenka & Jessica competed against second year pupils and more than held their own. Well done girls. Kirsty Simpson P4, won her class in Verse Speaking P3 & under. Our final entry was to vocal solos where Lauren, Lillianna, Megan & Camilla performed. Well done to Lauren Adams who earned 1st place. P4 have been involved in their Micro Tyco Challenge, which is an enterprise topic, where the children plan, organise and carry out a series of fundraising activities to raise money for third world countries, to allow them to start up new businesses. So far P4 have planned, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, a Coconut Shy, Beat the Goalie and a car wash, to name just a few. They even had the local fire engine to wash, phew, what a job! P4 has worked so hard to raise funds and we look forward to finding out their total.

Abbey Nursery Welcome to our March update which is being written as the sun is out and the children are running around outdoors having fun. This is a busy time for our Grasshopper room just now with the weekly Forest Schools outings starting up again as well as Active Kids sessions where the children are learning athletics skills this term. The children also celebrated Mardi Gras with a riot of colour and activities from festival food to mask making and costumes and ‘best’ performers each day. We are continuing this ‘Colours’ focus across all key groups just now with children participating in a range of activities that stimulate their learning through the use of colour mixing, abstract art and patterns, linking through to books and stories. A big thank you to all the children for sharing their knowledge and skills during Puzzle Week which showed how well children can communicate and cooperate together. Our Bunnies have also been busy having fun in the snow (let’s hope that’s

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Rainbow Guides to grow seeds from space! Girls at Kilmacolm Rainbows are preparing to become space biologists and embark on a voyage of discovery by growing seeds that have been into space. In September, 2kg of rocket seeds were flown to the International Space Station (ISS) on Soyuz 44S where they will spend several months in microgravity before returning to Earth in March 2016. The seeds have been sent as part of Rocket Science, an educational project launched by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and the UK Space Agency. Kilmacolm Rainbows, the youngest section of GirlGuiding UK, will be one of up to 10,000 schools/groups to receive a packet of 100 seeds from space, which they will grow alongside seeds that haven’t been to space and measure the differences over seven weeks. The Rainbows won’t know which seed packet contains which seeds until all results have been collected by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and analysed by professional biostatisticians. The out-of-this-world, nationwide science experiment will enable the girls to think more about how we could preserve human life on another planet in the future, what astronauts need to survive longterm missions in space and the diﬃculties surrounding growing fresh food in challenging climates. Heather Pearson, one of the Girlguiding leaders, says: “We are very excited to be taking part in Rocket Science. This experiment is a fantastic way of teaching our Rainbow Guides to think more scientifically and share their findings with the other Girlguiding units, families and the wider community. Rocket Science is just one educational project from a programme developed by the UK Space Agency to celebrate British ESA astronaut Tim Peake’s Principia mission to the ISS and inspire young people to look into careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, including horticulture. Applications to take part in Rocket Science are still open and will close in March or until all packs have been allocated. Schools and educational groups can apply at rhs.org.uk/schoolgardening. Follow the project on Twitter: @ RHSSchools #RocketScience

the end of this now!) and are busy preparing for World Book Day in March by looking at and talking about their favourite story characters – or animals. In our Little Ladybirds playroom the children have been having fun exploring and investigating new textures through play. They have been using their hands, feet and mouths to discover the properties of a variety of materials such as sand, mashed potato, dry pasta, porridge, wet and dry cotton wool and marshmallows. The children are also developing their fine and gross motor skills as they practise using their pincer grip to pick up smaller materials with their fingers and used spoons or spades to scoop or fill and empty buckets and pots. We also set up a textured assault course where they could walk, crawl and roll across different textured obstacles as well as use their hands to explore the textures.

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Kilmacolm Nursery Class The children in the nursery have been learning about the sequence of stories and healthy eating.

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Houston baby and toddler group We have had lots of fun this month playing with our toys making valentine cards and having a sing along with the parachute. We will be having a fundraising coffee morning, Saturday 23 April from10am-12noon in the West Church Hall, Main St, Houston. Please come along and join in the fun and cakes!

They have experienced participating in acting out stories and choose ‘The tiger who came to tea’ as their story of the month. Children had a special visit from the tiger as they had snack in the house corner which was turned into a café. Children made their own stories and used their imagination creating characters using puppets. The children learned about different fruits are were eager to try a variety of fruits at snack time. They made their own fruit cocktail and sandwiches to take home with them. Children have been able to identify different food groups. Children shared their healthy food with their teddy bears who they brought to nursery for our teddy bear picnic. Children participated in Inverclyde Music Festival and received a Special Recognition Award.

St Fillan’s Primary School Everyone at St Fillan’s Primary is continuing to enjoy taking part in the daily mile! Due to the high winds and extremely inclement weather it has been the 2 or 3 times a week mile! Our P7 class are working hard on their production of the Theresa Breslin novel “Divided City”. The children are collaborating with staff from the Citizens Theatre and pupils from Houston Primary. They are looking forward to performing for their parents on 8th March. P6 pupils Euan, Orla, Louise and Christopher will be representing our school at the Renfrewshire Euroquiz competition which takes place in Bishopton Primary. The other P6 children trained for the road race which took place on 25th February in Renfrew. In P5, P4 and P3 pupils have been learning some Gaelic songs from our teacher Joy who visits us on a Tuesday. P2 enjoyed eating pancakes and afterwards concentrated hard on their sewing and weaving. Thank you to the mums who came in to help with this. In P1 our children have been improving their ball skills when doing P.E.

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We meet every Thursday between 9.30am - 11.30am (term time) in the West hall, Main Street, Houston, PA6 7EL (next door to the Carrick Centre) – pop along when you can. We look forward to meeting you. Lesley, Sharon & Fiona. (lesleyannjackson@outlook.com)

Bridge of Weir Primary There was much love in the air in February at Bridge of Weir Primary! P2b headlined at the Valentine’s assembly where the children performed an acrostic poem, which is a type of poetry where each letter of the word ‘LOVE’ was used to spell out a phrase. Miss Mead confirmed that the children ‘loved’ taking part and that it was lovely to see their confidence growing on stage. Jessica said that her favourite part was singing ‘My love is like a red red rose’ and she was quick to point out that this was written by Robert Burns. Keeping with the Scottish theme, the Parent Council organised a Ceilidh which took place on 5th February. This was well attended and raised a great deal for the school. One parent commented that the band were great with the children and adults alike – providing lots of instruction and humour for the dancing.

The nursery has embarked on a very fierce new project – PIRATES! The children are having lots of fun with this topic however they have been sailing quite close to home recently with visits to the local Co-operative store where they made pancakes and also managed to visit some animals at the vet en route. The school said a fond farewell to Suzanne Dunleavey, minister at St Machar’s Ranfurley in Bridge of Weir, as she retired from her post at the church at the end of January. We have had a long association with Miss Dunleavey and are very appreciative of all the support she has shown us over the years. We were delighted that she was able to join us at an assembly where she was presented with a gift and bouquet of flowers from the children and staff. We wish her all the very best for the future.

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St Columba’s School Inverclyde Music Festival We are delighted that so many pupils took part at the annual Music Festival again this year. A full list of winners will be published on the School website at stcolumbas.org.

Pipers’ Success Two members of the Pipe Corps of the School’s Pipe Band have received the good news of successful auditions, representing significant accomplishments. Pipe Corporal Jack Guthrie has been invited to join the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland’s Development Band, and Pipe Corporal Finlay Frame has now graduated from the Development Band to a place in the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland’s Senior Band, a wonderful achievement for such a young piper and a first in St Columba’s history.

Development Staff and pupils are delighted at the continuous progress of the development of the Senior School campus. As this presents a unique opportunity for pupils who are interested in architecture and engineering to be engaged with a ‘live’ building project that is both close at hand and of significance to them, considering what it will offer when it is completed, the School has now launched an Education Programme linked to the development. Working in partnership with architects Burnet Bell and main contractor Thomas Johnstone, as well as our own Estates and Construction Adviser, Mr Allan McWhirter, this exciting programme will provide twenty pupils from SIV, SV and SVI not only meaningful links with key aspects of National 5 and Higher Graphic Communication syllabuses, but also allow these pupils to closely track the progress of the development from the laying of foundations through to the commissioning and occupation of the completed facility.

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What is more, the chance to interact with professionals from a wide range of disciplines (including architecture, quantity surveying, mechanical, electrical and structural engineering, landscaping and project management) is likely to be the most rewarding aspect of the programme, as the plan is that the pupils involved will receive presentations from the various ‘trades’ over the coming months and attend a number of site visits at key stages in the building development, with each visit focusing on a different aspect of the construction process.

Applying to St Columba’s While entrance examinations have been held in January, parents can request an appointment to visit the School and apply for a place throughout the year. The main points of entry to the School are Junior 1 and Transitus (Junior 7), however due to the wide range of Advanced Highers that the School offers entry at SIV, SV and SVI is not uncommon. Arrangements can be made for a pupil to enter the School at other stages if places become available, and means-tested bursaries are available. For more information on how to apply please visit www.st-columbas. org/page/Admissions.aspx. You can read more news at www.st-columbas.org

18/02/2016 12:54:31

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Kilmacolm Playgroup & Toddlers To celebrate our relaunch, Kilmacolm Playgroup and Toddlers invite you to join us for a morning with Maria Cairney author of the fabulous Blitzy Boy books about a naughty terrier. There will be puppets, singing, crafts and a light lunch. Families welcome. Suitable for children aged 0 - 6 approx. (older siblings welcome). Saturday 12th March Kilmacolm Community Centre 11am - 1pm. Free entry. Lunch included. Any queries contact: Victoria. finningan@hotmail.com At Playgroup, we love it when the dressing-up clothes come out and our new Princess and Frozen dresses are proving very popular! Dressing up allows imaginations to take over and leads to some lovely conversations and role-play around the characters we become. It also helps us learn how to dress ourselves and put on our shoes again when we are finished! Thanks to our friends at the Bank of Scotland whose grant helped purchase these outfits. For more information on our Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Playgroup sessions, please contact Emma at emma@ kehoes.com, or for details of our Wednesday morning Toddler group, contact Claire at clairedean1@btconnect.com.

Gryffe High School

Bridge of Weir Boys’ Brigade These boys are busy! March see’s another fun filled programme at Bridge of Weir Boys’ Brigade with the county football competition (9 & 16 March), visits from guest speakers from Rwanda, Cuba and Bolivia, and outdoor courses as part of the Queen’s Badge and Duke of Edinburgh. Adding to that a February packed with games, three-weeks of First Aid training by Dr Alan Bennie, winning medals at Swimming Awards - Alfie Sidebotham, Calum the Battalion swimming competition and Robertson, Euan Mullen, Cailean Simpson Junior Section topping the Paisley district points table. In fact it’s been all-go at BB since January saw completion of the First World War badge ran in conjunction with the “Bridge of Weir in the Great War” exhibition hosted by The Bridge. A harrowing subject made relevant and vivid by Paul Birch, BB Captain, with research from his forthcoming book, “Supreme Sacrifice; A small village in the Great War” recounting the lives of Bridge of Weir soldiers during the First World War. Each of the boys researched a soldier from the Bridge of Weir War Memorial (bridgeofweirmemorial.co.uk) and all passed with flying colours. Every evening includes a speaker or skill followed by an hour of intensive sport and gymnastics. Sports include football, indoor hockey and dodgeball; fast paced and very competitive. Gymnastics includes vaulting; a sport First World War badges - Cailean Simpson, Calum too strenuous for adults but absolutely Robertson, Mark Semple, Jonathan Gray, Alfie loved by thrill seeking BB!

S6 Pupils give Blood 29 S6 pupils responded to the opportunity to give blood recently when the mobile Blood Donor unit visited the school. Mr Adam Findlay, PT Pupil Support for Mackintosh House was delighted with the response. ‘It is great that the pupils listened to the appeal from the Blood Donor Service at a recent assembly. They are well aware of the importance of giving blood and the impact that it can have on others. In addition to the many pupils who gave blood in the visiting unit, many other S6 pupils have given blood too recently and could not give on the day. The mobile unit was busy all day. Hopefully the S6 pupils will continue to take the time to give blood in the future.’

Scottish Schools Radio Station We are really proud to announce that Gryffe High School now has a radio team which broadcasts regular shows on the Scottish Schools Radio network. The team, of around 15 budding journalists and djs, undertook a day’s training session with broadcast journalist Colin Kelly in November. Here they learned the skills of writing, interviewing, presenting and editing. Since the training day the team have been meeting regularly in ICT with Mrs Baker and Mr Deans to plan, write, record and edit their shows. They have interviewed pupils, teachers and visiting authors and have broadcast two shows so far. The show includes a mix of the latest hits and old classics as well as features on school life, films, books and careers. You can listen at www. scottishschoolsradio. com or via the Tunein App.

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Sidebotham, Euan Mullen, Craig Turner

Anchor Boys (5 - 8 years old) meets on a Thursday, Friday night - 8-11 years old at St Machars and 11 years+ at Freelands Church. All welcome. Http://firstbowbb.co.uk Will Mullen, Bridge of Weir Company Section, will.d.mullen@icloud.com

Johnstone High School Lego Productions S5 pupil, Morgan Spence, has recently wowed BBC Worldwide and America with his Lego production company. Morgan creates detailed animations using custom-made Lego figures. His animations have come to the attention of the likes of Jimmy Kimmell and the BBC. After appearing on The Jimmy Kimmell Show last year for creating an Oscar themed production, used to advertise a Lego designer’s new book, BBC Worldwide also recognised Morgan’s talent. He created two online promotional videos for them; one to advertise Dr Who and the other for the BBC’s Christmas advert. We are very proud of all of Morgan’s hard work and delighted that his talent has been recognised.

Sporting Success The girls from S4 to S6 have now made it to the quarter finals of the Netball Scottish Cup for the first time in living memory. This fantastic achievement has been made possible by the effort and dedication of the girls as well as the extraordinary commitment from their coach Miss Still. The girls defeated Porthlethen Academy from Aberdeen and have now progressed to the next round. We await the winners of games in the previous round to know who stands in our way to get to get to the semi-finals. Charlie MacLeod, Cara Hendricks, Chloe Love, Jack Miller and Alistair Edgar recently participated in the annual badminton championships at the ON-X in Linwood. All pupils performed extremely well and no one placed lower than fourth in both the girls’ and boys’ tournaments. Charlie and Jack achieved joint third place and the girls secured 3rd and 4th. Alistair managed to win the boys’ tournament in a tight final. This completes a remarkable achievement from Alistair in his time at Johnstone High as he has now won this tournament 5 of his 6 years at the school- his only defeat coming to the flu in 5th year rather than any opponent. Well done to all who competed!!!

Junior Rocks After auditioning with 39 other candidates, Zoe Tait, S3, and 7 others were successfully chosen to form the ‘Junior Rocks Crew’, a music group who went on to record and release their own album, ‘Junior Rocks’. The album is available to download or buy in all major music stores. She is definitely a future MTV Superstar in the making. Well done, Zoe!

18/02/2016 12:54:37

Why not 614080.

Brookfi eld Curling Club www.advertizer.co.uk

march 2016

55 55 .

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.

Amputee Mum’s efforts in the gym inspire Charity Cycle A personal trainer from Paisley has set his sights on cycling in South Africa in a bid to raise funds for local charity Finding Your Feet, after being inspired by the charity founder’s efforts in the gym. Lloyd Stevenson (21), a personal trainer at David Lloyd Renfrew, will join a team of 15 riders to head out to Cape Town in March to take part in the notorious Cape Town Cycle Tour in support of Finding Your Feet, a charity set up by single mum Corinne Hutton who lost her hands and feet to septicaemia in 2013. The Cape Town Cycle Tour is the largest timed cycle race in the world with around 35,000 participants expected to take part. The challenging course sees riders tackle a 109km route which sets off from the city and takes them around Table Mountain and the national park.

football, badminton and basketball. After her illness, Corinne was in the gym on crutches and prosthetics and by then I was a Physical Training Instructor. I was keen to help as it was so diﬃcult for her to hold the equipment and work the machines but she wasn’t for giving up. I found that very humbling. “When I heard how her charity Finding Your Feet helps amputees who are in that same position, I wanted to help. Training for the event involves cycling on the static Watt bike and in spin class. I’m in the right place for that! I’ve never done anything like this before - travelling to Cape Town with a crowd I don’t really know, to do the largest cycling event in the world. It’s quite daunting. “The hardest part will be the heat and the distance as well as my lack of

Lloyd has been helping Corinne, who founded the charity which supports amputees, to regain confidence and fitness in the David Lloyd centre in Renfrew. And so taken by her cando attitude and determination to help others, he felt compelled to do his own bit for the charity which has raised more than £250,000 to help amputees since its inception in 2014. Corinne (44) from Lochwinnoch in Renfrewshire, who walks on prosthetic legs and has a bionic hand, runs the charity which supports those who need help finding their feet after amputation or loss of limb function. In the two years since Corinne’s illness she has run up the ‘Rocky Steps’ in Philadelphia, cycled 10miles round the Scottish isle of Cumbrae, delivered a TED talk to 800 people, cycled in the Sir Chris Hoy velodrome, taken up skiing and ballroom dancing lessons, met the Prime Minister, carried the Commonwealth Games baton and learned to fly a single engine propeller plane. She has also helped countless other amputees to regain confidence and independence through In July 2015, Corinne, mum to Rory (7), became the first female quadruple amputee in history to conquer Ben Nevis before breaking another record in becoming the first quadruple amputee to abseil a staggering 140 metres. Corinne is currently awaiting the UK’s first double hand transplant, a procedure that will make medical history. On the challenge that lies ahead, Lloyd commented: “I was the kids club coach at David Lloyds and taught Corinne’s son Rory four years ago at

Brookfield Curling Club 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.

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technical knowledge on the mechanics of a bike. I’ve only ever been on mountain bikes before, never a road bike, so there’s a whole new learning curve for me. However, it’s really hard for amputees just to find their feet so I won’t complain. Thanks to the two sponsors I’ve got via David Lloyds, I’m getting the chance of a lifetime and I’ll be thinking of Corinne cycling when I’m struggling up the hills.” Corinne commented: “Before my illness, I loved taking on challenges for charity and completed numerous marathons. You never think the tables will turn and that you will become the charity. I am so grateful to all the fundraisers and challengers out there who are helping others who find themselves in my position. If some good can come of my illness, it’s the opportunity to give something back to those who need a support network like that which I benefited from. I wish Lloyd and the lads all the best in South Africa and look forward to welcoming them home.” Anyone wishing to support Lloyd can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/ Lloyd-Stevenson1/ or by dropping in to David Lloyd in Renfrew.

Sat Sweep Curling

Football Training

Every Saturday until 2 April, 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.

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 call Ali McMaster on 07775 578795, e: Glentyanthistlefc@gmail.com or visit our website: www.glentyanthistle. co.uk

18/02/2016 12:54:41

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HOWWOOD CURLING CLUB Come and Try Bonspiel 9th March

Howwood CC are always looking for new curlers to join our club. Following our successful Come and Try Bonspiel in January we are holding a further session on the 9th March at 7:30pm at Greenacres curling rink. This is an opportunity for new beginners to experience curling with qualified coaching and those that came to our first session to get more practice. We will also organise a curling match during this session. The cost is £5 and refreshments will be provided. Following this session we will invite those that are to be interested to our end of season Bonspiel which takes place in

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

bto Scottish Orienteering Urban League 2015 The awards ceremony for the 2015 Scottish Orienteering Urban League sponsored by Glasgow based bto solicitors took place in Edinburgh in January after race 1 for the 2016 series. It was a good year for local orienteering club Clydeside Orienteers (CLYDE) who took two first places and 3 second places in the series of races across 8 Scottish towns and cities. CLYDE are members of the Linwood and Gryffe Community Sports Hub and have members across Renfrewshire. Top prizes went to Houston Primary pupil Michael Paterson (pictured) who won the mens under 12 series, and Donald Petrie, also of Houston, who won the men’s over 55 category, despite a lengthy injury layoff. Michael also won the prestigious UK Urban League by competing in races across the UK from as far afield as Forres to Chester and Milton Keynes.

the 1st week in April and then to consider joining our club to

CLYDE are hoping to stage an event in this year’s series in Paisley on their new map funded by

take part in the new 2016/17 season. If you are interested please contact: Lachie Carmichael – lachiedcarmichael@hotmail.com / 01294 823643

SportScotland and Renfrewshire Council. Check out the website for details www.clydesideorienteers. org.uk The other were:

CLYDE

successes

Kirsten Robertson 2nd under 12 women Alice Wilson 2nd under 16 women Dave Robertson 2nd over 40 men Photo’s (ESOC)

Crawford

Lyndsay

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club - A night with Alex Gray The ladies section of OCRGC hosted their first social event of the year with ‘A night with Alex Gray’. Alex Gray is an international award winning crime writer who entertained 90 members and guests to the story of her career so far and tales of researching her 12 novels based around Glasgow and its surrounding area. Alex finished off the evening by reading an excerpt from her current novel and answering questions from the assembled audience. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was experienced by all.

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18/02/2016 15:33:39

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EVERY

march 2016

57 57

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

New Members welcome Kilmacolm Golf Club will be hosting an Open Day on Sunday 17 April, when they invite prospective new members to come along and see what the Club has to offer. Kilmacolm’s Captain, Colin McGinn, told The Advertizer, “We are celebrating our 125th year since the formation of the Golf Club. To mark this occasion we are offering a unique opportunity for those who have thought about joining a golf club, or for those thinking of moving club, to come along and get a tour of the Clubhouse and facilities. For those wishing to try the Golf Course, we’ll be offering a half price special (£20) for a round of golf and a light lunch; although places for this will be limited, therefore it’s best to book in advance. For all those attending, there will be special promotional offers available to join the Club on the day, and more details on this will be provided in next month’s Advertizer.”

Table Tennis Houston Village Hall on Monday nights from 7.30pm - 9.30pm. All welcome. Donation £2. Call Mark on 07968 052538.

Meantime, if you require any additional information on the Open Day, or anything else regarding the Golf Club, then please contact us on 01505 872139 or email secretary@ kilmacolmgolfclub.com.

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

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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Sporting Blog

by Lesley Handley

Motivation.... What Are You Aiming at?

“If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.”

• How much weight would you like to lift while strength training?

The general flow of human life tends to be toward ease and comfort. One day flows into the next, and many of us never quite get around to turning our good intentions into reality.

Once you know where you want to end up, you are much more likely to get there.

Those ‘good intentions,’ while no doubt admirable, tend to remain unrealized, mainly because they are too vague - vague ideas are impossible to focus on and aim for.

Sometimes, the hardest part of reaching a goal is just getting started. That first day of doing things differently or the first experience of bypassing an unhealthy treat in favour of a food that will give you more energy can be daunting. It isn’t easy and it certainly isn’t fun.

Without setting specific goals, your good intentions are exactly like a moving target. You would like to lose some weight, feel a little better, make a change in your diet - but without clearly defined goals and methods, you can’t focus and make it happen. The way to steady the target is to define your goals and write them down: • How much weight do you want to lose? • What kind of changes do you want to make in your diet? • How many days per week do you want to exercise? • Which article of clothing do you wish would fit your body again?

But you have to start moving toward your goals. That is where momentum comes in.

It is hard to change lifelong habits on your own. You need radical motivation that sometimes comes from involving others in your efforts. Setting deadlines, making commitments and entering events all provide an external motivation that will carry you through even the toughest temptations. Once you get started, you will find that the momentum kicks in and it becomes easier and easier to keep going. Lesley For more information on Personal Training or nutrition contact me on 0773 627 4925 or e-mail lesley@ﬁtsmartﬁtness.co.uk.

18/02/2016 12:54:52

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Quarriers United FC 12 Years On and Time for New Blood Quarriers Utd FC started in 2004 with a vision to establish a flourishing local football club. We have had 12 years of success with the first under 8 team still going strong now at under 19!! Other age groups beneath them have started and developed but only the 2005 age group are thriving along with a small 2007 group, so now let’s promote youth football locally. The club itself has continually developed, having our own pitches at both 11a-side and 7-a-side and changing rooms and a very supportive committee to keep the club running. However to push on into the next period for the club we need to find local parents who want to assist in providing local developmental football for children. The club are happy to support people who want to volunteer by helping them with coach development and team set up. Over the years we have supported young coaches who are keen to learn, with local lad Nick Loftus starting his coaching at Quarriers and now a professional coach in Norway. “It has been a fantastic journey thus far and it is amazing to watch the under 19’s go from wee boys to now playing as young men understanding football and also learning the important life skill of teamwork.” says coach Graham Robertson. Developmental football is both for girls and boys and the club have had some success developing both girls and boys who have gone on to play football within the professional set up. “Quarriers Utd has built up a great local presence and is admired within local football. It is now time for another generation of parents and volunteers to step forward and help to provide local football for young people. We have the infrastructure and we are prepared to support volunteers in every way possible to ensure the club continues to flourish and children get a chance to play locally” says QUFC Chairman Stewart Cumming. If you are keen to help in anyway please call Stewart Cumming on 01505 610689 or Graham Robertson on 01505 615344 or 07764 287005.

Adult Tap Lessons Learn a new skill and have fun exercising. Suitable for beginners upwards. Saturday lunchtime: The Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm. PA13 4LE. For more information please contact, Gail Ashley (MBATD) on 01475 531336. www.gailashleyschoolofdance.co.uk Email: contact@gailashleyschoolofdance.co.uk

Castle Semple Sailing Club

Burns Supper Laughter is said to be the best medicine and along with a fine meal and music, there was certainly plenty of all when Ranfurly Castle members enjoyed a host of outstanding speakers at their Annual Burns Supper. Included on the top table was Eleanor Cannon, Chairperson of Scottish Golf, and member of Ranfurly Castle who gave a very entertaining reply to The Toast to the Lassies. Ian McCosh, past president of Renfrewshire Golf Union addressed the haggis and was given a standing ovation for his flawless recital of Tam o’ Shanter, especially his dancing, having only had a plaster cast removed from his ankle earlier in the day. Rev Ian Miller, “Freeman of West Dunbartonshire” gave an excellent and amusing Immortal Memory, without even referencing the fact that he shares Dunbartonshire Freeman status along with Rabbie Burns. While past club Captain Alan Gordon toasted The Lassies and had everyone in stitches of laughter with a barrage of witty stories and jokes, Club captain Paul Morrell presided and kept the evening flowing. Club member Ronald Aitchison piped the haggis and captivated the audience with his rendition of Holy Willy’s prayer, suitably attired in full length night gown and hat. Musical entertainment was provided by John Armit, singing without instrumental accompaniment and some Left to Right: Paul Morrell - Club Captain, Eleanor questionable harmonising Cannon - Scottish Golf Chairperson & Joy McLeod from his audience! Lady Captain

New Catering Franchise - Stewart Catering We are delighted to announce that Heather and Louise, operating as Stewart Catering, have been appointed as our new Catering and Bar Management partner. Stewart Catering are already a very successful and popular feature at Old Course Ranfurly and have been looking for avenues to expand their business. Having already experienced their talents and skills for the recent Burns Supper, we look forward to seeing them spread their ideas and enthusiasm throughout the membership when they oﬃcially start on February 29th. Heather and Louise — Stewart Catering

With the club’s unoﬃcial Winter Winchester Whacky Pursuit Series drawing to a close, the oﬃcial winter series started in late February. The winter sailing has brought plenty of entertainment and some challenging weather conditions and sometimes not so challenging but members were desperate to take part and prepared to endure often freezing damp conditions just to be out on the water. The commitment and camaraderie has been brilliant over an otherwise dull and damp winter.

45th Celebrate Cubs’ 100th Birthday in Style

However for 2 members, Rear Commodore Arthur Logan and his wife Fiona, sunny Barbados beckons. At the end of March, Arthur and Fiona will be flying off to the sun to represent the club at the GP14 Worlds in Barbados and we wish them all the very best of luck However, rumour has it that Fiona is more concerned about the stories that sharks lurk in the seas surrounding the sailing area rather than the actual winning of races. I am sure that Arthur will soon have her focussing on the race once they are they there. The boat has already been packed up and put in a container ready for the voyage. Over 100 boats are expected to take part in the event, lets hope it doesn’t make the news for the wrong reasons as the event held in 2014 did at Strangford Lough when a number of boats capsized when a sudden squall broke out. We are sure they will have a great time and wish them all the very best of luck.

The Cubs invited Beavers, Scouts and Explorers to join them along with parents and friends as they did a night hike to the field near Bridge of Weir where the party was being held.

50th Anniversary - Sunday 29 May The Club will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year and will be holding a fun sailing day Sunday 29 May. If you would like to come along and join us please email via our website www/castlesemplesc.co.uk

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In February, 45th Greenock and District (Quarriers Village) celebrated the Cubs’ 100th birthday with a night of campfire songs and star gazing.

The 45th enjoyed hotdogs and burgers with homemade soup and, of course, smores. Later they joined in campfire songs and did some star gazing before a fantastic firework display to round off the evening. Thanks very much to everyone who helped make the evening such a success and especially Steve and Anna Newman for the use of the field for the party.

18/02/2016 12:54:58

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march 2016

59 59

18/02/2016 12:55:05

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ADVERTISING business ad rates:

TRADES AND SERVICES

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

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MISCELLANEOUS TUITION

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

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18/02/2016 16:52:47

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DEADLINES

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

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PROPERTY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TO RENT

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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

Fri 18 March

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.

April ‘16 ISSUE: • Deadline: 18 March • Delivery: 1 April May ‘16 ISSUE: • Deadline: 15 April • Delivery: 29 April MUSIC TUITION

march 2016

It is hereby agreed that: • The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising. • All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards. • Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher. • The Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear.

CHILDCARE HOLIDAY HOMES

Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders. P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 873839. Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to ﬁnd your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 614925

• 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:

churches

BRIDGE OF WEIR

BUSINESS

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: Sunday services 10.30am, Junior Church & Youth Church, hearing aid loop system. For more information on activities and events ﬁnd us online – stmacharsranfurlychurch. org.uk or Facebook. Come along – all welcome. Hope Hall: Sun 1pm Sunday School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; Mon 6.30pm Investigators for Kids, 8pm Bible Study and Prayer.

ELDERSLIE

Elderslie Kirk: Sunday service every week at 11am. Minister Rev Robin Allison. All welcome. Weekly meetings:- Monday Club every week from 12noon - 2.30pm. Light lunch and a varied activity programme. Midweek Fellowship will meet every Wed from 10.30am for Tea/Coffee followed by a short Service of Worship at 11am.

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; R e v D S n e l s o n 01 5 0 5 612722.

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Houston and Killellan Kirk: Church of Scotland, Scottish Charity no SC 012822. www. houstonkirk.org. 4th March 7.30pm - World Day of Prayer Ecumenical Service Liturgy from the women of Cuba. 6th March 11am, 2pm & 6.45pm - The Sacrament of Holy Communion (See note below). 13th March 11am - Morning Worship Guest Preacher: Mary Jane Bird. 20th March 11am - Palm Sunday Morning Worship The Sacrament of Baptism The Annual Stated Meeting will follow at the end of Morning Worship. Holy Week Services - All Services begin at 7.30pm. Mon - Houston & Killellan Kirk; Tue - Joint Service with Linwood Parish at Houston; Wed - Joint Service at Linwood Parish Church. Maundy Thu - The Sacrament of the Last Supper; Good Fri - Houston & Killellan Kirk. 27th March 8am - Early Morning EASTER Service The Sacrament of Holy Communion Bacon Butty Breakfast after this Ser vice in the Killellan Halls. 11am Easter Morning Family Worship: Service of Blessing. Note:- We celebrate Holy Communion on the first Sunday of March and October. There are 3 services on each day 11am, 2pm and 6.45pm. A common cup is used for elders on duty and available to any members of the congregation who wish to use it. It is served in the front two rows of the church. Fortiﬁed wine is used in the common cup. The rest of the congregation are served bread and wine in individual glass thimble containers using non-alcoholic wine.

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.

St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: The World Day of a Prayer Service will held on Friday 4th March at 7.30pm. All are welcome. Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: TuesSat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm. Reconciliation: Sat 1010.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.30-8pm. Exposition: As announced. Baptisms: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month by arrangement. Parish Priest: Rev Daniel J McLoughlin, Dip. Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mar y Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). “Abbotsfield”, St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T: 01505 612046, F: 01505 610556. E: parish@stfillan. org.uk. www.stﬁllan.org.uk 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

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

Kilbarchan Parish Church Minister: - Rev Stephen Smith. The Senior Choir, along with members of the Junior Choir will lead the Maundy Thursday Service on 24th March at 7pm, when John Rutter’s “Mass of the Children” will be sung during worship, followed by the Sacrament of Holy Communion. There will be services at 7pm on Good Friday, 25th March and on Easter Sunday, 27th, at 11am.

KILMACOLM Kilmacolm Old Kirk: Church of Scotland (Charity n o . S C 0 0 9 2 91 ) . w w w. 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. Rev Vincent Byrne. Family mass Sundays 10am with children’s liturgy, followed by tea and coffee. Eucharistic service Thursdays 10.30am. Rosary Tuesdays 6.30pm. Prayer group meets Thursdays 7.30pm. Further information and contact details www. stcolmsparish.co.uk. All welcome. 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 welcome at our Church in Moss Road. The Rector is the Revd David Gifford and the Associate P r i e s t t h e Rev d H e l l e r Gonzalez (resident in Kilmacolm Rectory). Regular Sunday Service 11.30am with monthly Evensong on last Sundays at 6pm. Family Service 11.30am on the last Sunday of the month. 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/ coffee af ter the service. Church ser vice star ts 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 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 ABC’s Teen group. Wed 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, Please join with us as we celebrate Jesus death for our sins and His resurrection for our life! March 20 at 10.30am. Palm Sunday Service; March 24 at 7pm Maundy Thursday Communion; March 25 at 2.30pm. Good Friday Meditation; March 27 at 10.30am Easter Sunday Family Service followed by and Easter Brunch in aid of Mercy Ships; March 27 at 7pm The Gatherin’

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ITEMS FOR SALE BABY EQUIPMENT Koochi pink buggy and travel bag. Retails at £99.99. Sell for £10. As new. Tel: 07340 707471. Britax Car Seat black forward facing, 15-36 kg, good cond. £15. Tel 01505 874870. Philips Avent combined baby food steamer and blender with instructions. Smoke & pet free home. £30. 01505 672175. CLOTHES & SHOES Very Stylish, gents 3 piece suit 44 inch chest, 38 inch waste, light grey worn once, cost £200. Gents shoes black brogue size 12 Locke make never worn, cost £160. Selection of designer ties and scarfes free with shoes and suit, £50 for the lot. Can supply photos. Tel: 07928 661869. Tap shoes pink junior size 10. £10. Tel: 01505 874870. Ballet shoes pink junior size 9. £5. Tel: 01505 874870. Women’s Nike running jacket. Lightweight, black, size medium. Exc cond. £20. 01505 672175. Marks and Spencer men’s charcoal suit. Chest 48ins, waist 38ins, inside leg 31ins. Wool rich blend, exc cond. £25. 01505 672175. Men’s Dehavilland black coat. Wool/cashmere mix, hardly worn and in exc cond. Chest 48ins. £50. 01505 672175. HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN 3 seater and 2 seat brown leather couches with pouﬀe. VGC. £300ono. Pick up only from Houston. Tel: 07780 671618. Quality secondary glazing unit, 3 panel horizontal slider, style is Protec SS3 Reveal Fix with 6mm glass. Colour is Light Oak. Unit size is 115cm x 173cm. £50 Ono. Tel: 01475 540110. Grandfather clock, dark wood, Westminster chimes. £200 Tel: 01505 345629. TV table, smoked glass, oval shape, suit up to 32” TV. Cost £45. Accept £20. Tel: 01505 872334. ‘Adjustomatic’ Single Bed (John Lewis). £80. Tel: 01505 872755. Wrought Iron Headboard & F o o t e r. £ 6 5 . Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 321028. Cream leather 2 seater settee. £50. Tel: 07986 118479. Aston Swivel Recliner chair with footstool. Black leather with wood base. Good cond. £40. Tel 01505 614943.

Kitchen table: White & light wood (Habitat) gate leg table with 2 folding leaves. Length 45” when extended 8” folded. Width: 31” As new. 2 basket weave kitchen chairs. (IKEA) £45 for both or £30 table, £20 chairs. Tel: 01505 321691. Pair of matching beige/cream three-seater sofas, one sofa bed. Approx 190cm wide x 90cm high x 93cm deep. £60 for the pair. Tel: 01505 672175. Brand new unused M&S king size duvet still in box. 13 tog. Smoke & pet free home. £55. Tel: 01505 672175. 5 piece corner sofa dark brown half leather. Exc cond. £150. Buyer collects. Tel: 01505 871374. DFS black leather 3 seater sofa and matching chair. Great cond. Collection only. £150. Tel: 07792 722429. Cintique patterned two seater settee with armchairs, good cond, Collection only, £50. Tel: 01505 328044. Cotbed (Toysrus) with mattress in exc cond, £30, Tel: 01505 328044. 4 Dining Room Tall Back Chairs, Exc Cond, Crushed Velveteen Material, 2 x Brown/Mocha/ Beige & 2 x Brown/Pink/Beige stripes. £50 each. Tel: 01505 673229. Dark Brown Leather High Back chair for study desk. £25 ono. Tel: 01505 673229. 3’ Square Dark Brown Leather Pouﬀe, VGC. Cost £150 sell £75 ono. Tel: 01505 673229. Cherry wood John Lewis coﬀee table with shelf under. Exc cond. £150 ono. Tel: 07986 118479. ELECTRICAL & GAS Hotpoint Ultima Washing Machine, free-standing, graphite colour. Exc cond. £90. Tel: 0788 778 4162. Logik gas hob, stainless steel exc cond. £40. (new kitchen forces sale) Tel: 0788 778 4162. Washing Machine perfect Working order Hotpoint. £50. Tel: 07791 688240. Cast Iron Stove Gas Fired Coal unused Baxi Windermere. £150. Tel: 07791 688240. Beko sliver fridge freezer. VGC. £120ono Tel: 01505 614719 evenings. PETS Small hamster cage and wheel. £10. Tel: 07940 740542. SPORTS Full set Slazenger Golf Clubs. Good cond. £40. Tel: 01505 329137.

t: 01505 613340

Ping G25 12 degree Driver with super soft shaft and a Ping G25 23 degree Rescue Club also with a super soft shaft. Both superb cond. Fixed price £140 for both. Tel: 01505 842950. Hill Billy Power Trolley with battery. £45. Tel: 01505 873051. Western saddle brand new for sale £150 Tel: 07931 360915 after 5pm. Adidas, size 8 Techstar Allround 3 Track and Field running spike shoes. Never worn. Unwanted Xmas present. £25 Tel: 01505 690995. Kids bike (20”) ideal age 5-8. Exc cond, good as new. Cost £100 sell for £20. Tel: 01505 690658. Toddler Bicycle helmets (44-48 cm) pink x 2, suits appr. 1-5 yrs old, good cond. £5 each. Tel: 01505 874870. Dainese large size matt black ski/snowboard helmet. Good cond. £20. 01505 672175. Raleigh High Quality Mountain Bike. VGC. £60. Tel: 07791 688240. Raleigh Girls Mountain Bike 18” frame. Exc cond. £50. Tel: 07791 688240. Vintage Gents Bicycle Rudge 1950s usable condition rod brakes Sturmey Archer Dynohub. £150. Tel: 07791 688240. TOYS/GAMES/DVD Bouncy Zebra sit-on toy. Suitable for girls, age 1-4years. Retails £80. Sell for £20. Tel: 07340 707471. Sylvanian Family Hotel. Exc cond. Few extras. £55. Tel: 01505 702903. OTHER ITEMS Brand new leatherette briefcase. Unwanted gift. £20. Tel: 01505 328734 or 07760 155692. Lightweight Wheelchair. Good C o n d . £ 7 0 . Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 872755. 1 x 4 wheel & 1 x 3 wheel Rollator. £30 each. Tel: 01505 872755. Manfrotto MK393-PD tripod, Manfrotto MMC3-01 monopod & Jessops Tecno camera bag all brand new along with two seldom used Jessops studio lights. All for £70. Tel: 07980 144576. Set of Mini Countryman R60 steel wheels with Bridgestone Blizzak winter tyres/caps £150. Tel: 01505 613091. Apple I Phone black includes extras Red Leather Flip Case Desk Charger Spare Battery new good used cond. £140. Tel: 07791 688240.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Lexmark Interpret 405 wireless 4 in 1 printer (fax, copy, scan, print). Exc cond. £30. Tel: 01505 672175. Genuine BMW Mini Countryman roof rack used once complete with instructions & tools £60. Phone 01505 613091. Apple iPad Mini 32GB Wireless & 4G complete with Box/Cables plus Belkin Leather Case £100. Tel: 01505 613091. 4 Wheel Rollator with fold down seat and bag. VGC. £50. Tel: 01505 842977. Assorted terracotta chimney pots which make excellent planters. From £10. Tel: 01505 672175. Pay as you go EE Vouchers (bought in error). £30 value for £20. Tel: 07913 481101. Yamaha PSR150 Electric Organ. £45. Tel: 01505 872334. Set of 4 genuine BMW winter wheels, tyres and rims. Came oﬀ my BMW Series1 Cabriolet. Will probably fit other Series. In great condition with loads of tread. 195/55 R16. £180. Tel: 07812 493999.

WANTED ITEMS

Black leather or faux leather couches or chairs. Free or cheap please! Can uplift. Tel: 07456 503996. Black dining room table. Tel: 01505 506385. 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. Cash paid for Copy of book Castles and mansions of Renfrewshire and Buteshire by AH Millar. Tel 01505 331094. Wooden barrels, glass bottles, cider making equipment, apples. Tel: 07928661869 Old boats and old boat parts, anything nautical, for collector. Tel: 07928 661869. Old pocket watches - in any condition – working or not cash paid, Tel: 07887 621598.

FREE

CYCLE

Ikea tractor seat stool, height adjustable, castor wheels & black plastic seat. Contact 07732066967. Maxi-Cosi EasyBase for use with Cabrioﬁx or Pebble baby car seat. Secured with seatbelt only, no isofix attachments. Tel: 01505 672175.

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

60-63 CLASSIFIED_258_MAR16.ind.indd 62

LOCAL INFORMATION community council Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings. BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm www.bishoptoncouncil.com BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 1st Tues at 7pm. www.bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm in February, April, June, August, October and December on 2nd Thursday of the month. HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wed at 7.30pm www.houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.co.uk HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. www.howwood.com/community-council.php KILBARCHAN: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. www.kilbarchan.info/community_council.html KILMACOLM & QUARRIERS: Last Tues at 7.30pm, Kilmacolm Cargill Centre (NB: No meetings: July or Dec) www.kilmacolmcc.co.uk LANGBANK: Church Hall: 2nd Wed at 7.30pm LOCHWINNOCH: Bowling Club: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

community halls to let Bridge of Weir, Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 Brookﬁeld, Village Hall. Tel: 335562. Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 331488 Houston, Compass Centre. Tel: 615441 / 612617 Kilbarchan, Guide Centre. Tel: 702758. Kilbarchan, Old Library Centre. Tel: 706070 Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre. Tel: 873994 Kilmacolm, Brownie/Guide Hut. Tel: 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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march 2016

63 63

ADVERTIZERS - A TO Z

BY CATEGORY Accountants & Financial

Education

Aﬄuent Financial Planning . . 24 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 16 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 53

Electricians

Architectural Services

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Architectural Drawings . . . . . 16 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Fencing

Art, Gifts & Flowers

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 11

Firewood & Logs

Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14

Automotive Services AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Gryﬀe Garage Motor Engineers . . 29

Bathrooms Aﬀordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17

Bedrooms Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 2

Blacksmith & Metalwork Iron House Stoves Limited . . 7 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 11

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 39 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 38 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 40 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 51

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 27

Care Services & Homes Conﬁdent Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 40

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 16

Charity Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Classiﬁed Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Gryﬀe Rooﬁng Services . . . . 15 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 35 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Quick Drain Clear . . . . . . . . . 39

Coﬀee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 30 JoJo’s Cakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 27

Driveways A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Victoria Driveways Landscapes . . 47

Driving Instructors Alistair McMahon Driving . . . 10 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 3

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 11 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Framing Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14

Funeral Services Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 13,29 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 6

Garage Doors & Gates Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 47 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 44 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 44 Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 49 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 49 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 47 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 49 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 9 I & J Building & Rooﬁng Serv . . 2 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 48 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Victoria Driveways Landscapes . . 47 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 47 West of Scotland Landscape . . 44

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 36 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 36

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 36 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 57 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 3 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 40 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Lauras Nail & Beauty Lounge . . 23 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 35 Skinny Minnies . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 35

Home Interiors

Property, Sales & Let

Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 35 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Home Security

Removals

Brookﬁeld Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 6

@ease Removals & Transport . . 6 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Joiners CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 38 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 38 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SMG Rooﬁng & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 15

Kilt & Dress Hire Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 5

Kitchens Aﬀordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 2 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37

Leisure & Recreation Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 59

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 McDonald Decorators . . . . . . . . 36 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Pet Services & Training Happy Rambles . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 43

Plasterers

Restaurant & Bars Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 30

Retail Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 9,45 Saks & Hart Country Living . . 38 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 9

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 4 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 40 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 51

Social Care Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Solicitors Aﬃnity Family Law Experts . . 3 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

Special Occasions ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Sports Clubs & Events Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 59

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 3

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Travel Agents Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 47

TV & Satellite

Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 4 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 5 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 38 Kilellan Rooﬁng . . . . . . . . . . 14

Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 7 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Plumbers

Window Cleaners

A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

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

Upholstery Services P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 2

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Art Window & Doors . . . . . . . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

@ease Removals & Transport .. 6 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 47 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 44 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affinity Family Law Experts . . 3 Affluent Financial Planning . . 24 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Alistair McMahon Driving . . . 10 Alistair Stewart - Driving Ins . . 3 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 44 Architectural Drawings . . . . . 16 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 35 Art Window & Doors . . . . . . . . . Bk Ashes Hair & Beauty . . . . . . . . 36 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 39 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 13,29 Beginners Yoga - Sara Marijuan . . 57 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 30 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 8 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 4 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 2 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 5 Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 49 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 5 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Chips Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 41 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 40 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Crafts of Calder Gallery . . . 14 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 49 Crawford Landscapes . . . . . . . . 47 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 7 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 49 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 16 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 3 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 16 First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 14 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 48 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 9,45 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 16 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 9 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 29 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 15 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Happy Rambles . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 5 Houston Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 3

I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 37 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 16 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 3 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 7 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 38 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 15 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 5 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 6 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 3 JoJo’s Cakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 16 Kerr McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 40 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 27 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Lauras Nail & Beauty Lounge . . 23 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 14 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 40 McDonald Decorators . . . . . . . . 36 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 16 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 11 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 11 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 36 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 35 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 35 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 17 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 2 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Quarriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Quick Drain Clear . . . . . . . . . 39 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 48 Ranfurly Castle Golf Club . . 59 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Saks & Hart Country Living . . 38 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Skinny Minnies . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 43 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 35 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 53 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 35 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 51 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Victoria Driveways Landscapes . . 47 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 47 West of Scotland Landscape . . 44 Wild Rose Flowers Ltd . . . . . . 9 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 15

Home Hardware First Domestics . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Gibb Stuart Ironmongers . . . . 9, 45

Home Improvements Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 3 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 17

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