268 January 2017 - Gryffe Advertizer

January 2017 No.268 Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

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No. 268

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January 2017

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Expert Gutter Cleaning With Winter now well and truly here, the wind has blown the last of the leaves off the trees and unfortunately many of them are now lying in our gutters, along with silt, moss, twigs, etc., blocking the gutter and stopping the water from flowing down the spout where it should go, causing them to overflow and potentially causing damage to the outside of your home.

We use a state of the art carbon fibre gutter vacuum system which is safer for your gutters and safer for us, giving a more efficient & effective clean than old fashioned methods whilst potentially saving you money.

Call 01505 863 863 for a free quote.

01505 863 863 www.nutechcleaning.co.uk

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ThisMonth Brighter Award

First of all, I am delighted to say that Brighter Bridge of Weir have been shortlisted for the 2017 Scottish Rural Award in the Conservation and Environment category. Dougie McNicol told me, “We’re really chuffed about this! Representatives from our group will attend the Awards and Gala Dinner in Edinburgh in March 2017 when hopefully we will pick up a prize.” Well done Brighter BoW and keep up the good work, please!

Parking Mad

In last year’s January issue, I talked about the suspension of the 30 minute parking enforcement in Kilmacolm. One year on, the time limit has now been raised to 2 hours, but shopkeepers have noticed a drop in footfall in the village since the introduction of the parking discs. When we are trying to encourage villagers to shop local, it seems counter-productive to then slap on parking penalties for those who overstay or park without a disc. There was a problem with cars being parked in the village all day by commuters catching the Glasgow bus and shop workers who commute to the village and parking for the day. If a solution could be found to accommodate these vehicles without them taking up the spaces in the centre of the village then I’m sure we could return to a free/ unlimited parking status. I think this will be an on-going bone of contention between the Council and the traders - hopefully common sense will prevail before shops start closing!

It’s in the Watter

For those of you who were concerned that a new road was being built alongside Port Glasgow Road, fear not. This is part of a £11.3 million programme promising better water for about 11,000 customers in Port Glasgow and parts of Greenock, as well as 7,000 in the Kilmacolm and Lochwinnoch areas.

Seven miles of new water mains will be installed in work which is expected to be finished by late next year or early 2018. It will involve road traffic management and some disruption to supply, but Scottish Water say work will be done mainly in fields and verges to avoid digging up roads wherever possible.

contact us

The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN t: 01505 613340 e: info@advertizer.co.uk w: www.advertizer.co.uk 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 optical blog .......................9 dental blog.........................13 what’s on........................14-18 business news.................22-28 financial blog.........................22 legal blog .......................27 on the road..........................29 village news....................32-41 local history.......................40 book people......................41

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pet news.....................42-43 pet blog ............................42 outdoors........................44-47 schools news.................48-54 photography blog..............51 sports & clubs news................55 sporting blog.....................55 business classified..............56 church listings....................57 deadlines dates...................57 property classified.................57 sales & wants......................58 advertiser directory................59

Christmas Recycling

Once the unwrapping is done, and it’s time to take down the tree, there are plenty of options for your Christmas leftovers. We’ve got details of bin collection dates in our classified pages, and on p44 we have a list of recycling centres which will take various items including trees. Also, Gowanlea Nursery are again offering a tree recycling service.

Happy New Year!

Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your continued support and look forward to working with you throughout 2017. A special thanks to our local Councillors and many other contributors who provide their news and updates and, of course, the local retailers, tradesmen and businesses for their ongoing support on which our community thrives.

Next Issue: No.269 February 2017

Deadline: Friday 13 January 2017

Wishing you all the best for 2017!

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Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution ‌ Just replace the glass!!

We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it.

Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt and he services the Wider Gryffe area. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Peter a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

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RENFREWSHIRE FOODBANK HOUSTON CO-OP CHRISTMAS COLLECTION A huge heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated cash and goods at our stall in the Houston Co-op on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December.

We raised...

Cash - £1,512 Food, toiletries, nappies etc donated £1,200 (estimated) All of your donations will ensure that children and their families requiring to use the services of Renfrewshire Foodbank over the festive period will have a far brighter and easier Christmas.

Ah, Kindness.... What a simple way to tell another struggling soul that there is love to be found in this world.

Dyslexia Fundraising Our twin sheep have been out and about in Houston, raising funds for dyslexia. Have you seen them?

If you do, please purchase a raffle ticket for £1 or alternatively leave a donation for this very good cause.

The customers of the River Inn gave generously, when Wooly came to visit last week. A number of businesses are also supporting - RBS, NHS, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce and Pitlochry Hotel.

We thank them for their support.

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Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Singing is good for you and our season is short, but busy. Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society will be commencing the three month session with the first practice on Tuesday the 10th January 2017 concluding with, on Sunday 19th March 2017, the concert in Paisley Abbey. The programme is Puccini Messa da Gloria and Vivaldi Gloria, both vibrant and uplifting choral works.

The first Practice on 10th January is an open rehearsal and anyone who is interested and would like to sing with us please come along and try us out. The rehearsals are held at 7:30pm. In Thomas Coats Memorial Church hall which is opposite the University of the West of Scotland in High Street Paisley. The practices continue on Tuesdays until the 14th March 2017. In addition there are practices on 4 Fridays commencing 24th February 2017.

If you wish further information this can be obtained from the Secretary on 01505 816110 or coatschoral@btinternet.com.

There is a web page WWW.THOMASCOATSCHORAL.ORG.UK and you can follow us on facebook.

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Christmas Sparkler Ladies Lunch Over 270 St Vincent’s Hospice supporters joined us at the Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow for our annual Ladies Christmas Sparkler Lunch on Sunday 4th December which was hosted by Steve McKenna.

Aff it With 2016 at an end and thoughts turning to New Year resolutions, Ardgowan Hospice is asking Inverclyde to drop the drink, stop smoking or jettison the junk and raise money to support your local community.

Christmas is a time for celebration, but once the drinks cabinet is empty, the turkey sandwiches all eaten and the pudding put away, January is the time to start afresh and get ‘Aff it for Ardgowan’.

What better way to stay focused on your fast than to stay on target for a good cause? January is a month for tightening the belt and by signing up to this appeal; abstainers will enjoy no hangovers, more cash to spend and an increased feeling of well-being – something the hospice is keen to encourage amongst the community.

Alex Mula, Events and Fundraising Co-ordinator said, “Over the Christmas period I over indulged in booze so I’ll be getting Aff it January, by pledging to not drink for the whole month. This will also help with the hangovers!”

Active Walking, swimming, running and cycling are all great ways to keep fit and keep the pounds at bay. They’re also ways to raise money for the local community and Ardgowan Hospice is inviting Inverclyde to sign up to an activity and gain sponsorship for a very worthy cause.

Scotland is brimming with active challenges, all of which can be run, swum, walked or cycled in aid of the Ardgowan Hospice. Whether it’s the Edinburgh Marathon in May, Great Scottish Swim in August, or Pedal for Scotland or any other event, Ardgowan Hospice can help you raise money.

Alex Mula, Events and Fundraising Co-ordinator at Ardgowan Hospice said, “If I didn’t cycle I wouldn’t stay fit and signing up for a challenge is a great motivation to get out on the bike. I’ve taken on two 100 mile cycles in the last couple of years and raised over £1,000 for charity. This year I’m in training again and will be cycling from Glasgow to Edinburgh in aid of Ardgowan.”

To take part in Active or Aff it for Ardgowan, or for more information about running a marathon in aid of the hospice please contact Elaine McNeill on 01475 558899 or email elaine.mcneill@ardhosp.co.uk Fundraising advice and support is available from the team along with sponsorship forms and collection tins. A full list of active events available, can be found at www. ardgowanhospice.co.uk

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Guests enjoyed a sparkling drinks reception whilst Master Magician, Mark Gordon entertained the Ladies with some of his magic. After a delicious 3-course lunch was served, Natasha Raskin-Sharp hosted the Grand Auction which included some fabulous items. It was then time for the Ladies to hit the dancefloor and dance the afternoon away to the magnificent sound of The Soul Kings.

Jackie Young, Business Manager, said “our Ladies Lunch is always so well supported by the community. It is wonderful to see so many who have supported us over the years and also many new ones too. We would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who helped support this day, to raise the magnificent sum of £28,000 for the benefit of the Hospice is truly magnificent”.

If you would like any information about forthcoming events please contact the fundraising team at St Vincent’s Hospice on 01505 705635.

Light Up A Life We were delighted that Life up a Life was so well attended, and we want to thank everyone who came out on such a cold evening to support the Hospice.

This is a very special event for the Hospice, and this year the combined lighting up of the lights on the Christmas tree and the newly donated lights on the tree in the Hospice Community Garden made it quite spectacular and deeply meaningful.

Our wish is that the lights will continue to offer comfort and hope during the Christmas Season, and New Year. We invite you to come and visit the community garden. Bring family and friends and spend a peaceful moment in the glow of the St. Vincent’s Tree.

If you want to support St Vincent’s Hospice please call the Fundraising & Communications department on 01505 705635.

Happy New Year to all Advertizer readers! With the festivities over, it’s a time when people often make resolutions and plans, or think about things they would like to achieve in the year ahead. If one of those is to take better care of your wellbeing or to seek support for mental health issues, RAMH is here for you.

Visit www.ramh.org for more information on available services and to see our A-Z of mental health.

If you live in Renfrewshire and need urgent support call 0141 848 9090 or (freephone from landlines) 0500 829 093. If you live outside Renfrewshire call Breathing Space on 0800 838587 or Samaritans on 116 123.

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IT’S OUR 3rd BIRTHDAY! Believe it or not, its been 3 years since we launched Laura’s Nail & Beauty Lounge.

We are very proud of what we’ve created. The Lounge is more than just somewhere to get your nails or beauty treatments done, its an escape from the busy, sometimes crazy lives we’re all caught up in.

It has become somewhere to de-stress over a chat and a cuppa or completely disconnect with a massage or facial in our Therapy Room, whilst relaxing on our heated bed.

There is easy parking nearby and tickets (£5) are available from members, by calling 01505 850 344 or on the door.

**BIRTHDAY BROWS OFFER** Book 2 brow appointments (for January & February) waxing or threading and get 3rd appointment FREE!

Brighten up your Sunday afternoon Sweep away the winter cobwebs with music from The Arkleston Singers. The well-known Paisley chamber choir will present a programme of easy listening on Sunday afternoon, 22nd January 2017, in Holy Trinity & St Barnabas Church, St James Place, Paisley PA3 2AF (opposite the Sheriff court and Gilmour St station) at 3.30pm. The hour-long concert will be led by their new conductor, Marcus Kitchen, and will include popular songs by ABBA and traditional songs

by John Rutter and Robert Burns. You could also win a Scottish food hamper for Burns Night in our fundraising raffle.

37 Main Street, Bridge of Weir

Quote - “Birthday Brows” when booking Manicures ~ Pedicures ~ Waxing Massage ~ Facials ~ LVL Lashes Spray Tanning

We’ve made it easy to get some ‘Me Time’ by simply texting or booking via our Facebook page.

Megan has been part of the Lounge Team from the start, and for over a year now we’ve had Linzi too. Together we look forward to many more years of ‘Lounge Time’ with the ladies of Bridge of Weir, Houston and surrounding villages.

Late night on Thursday ‘til 8pm.

Call The Lounge on 01505-690090, text 07872-929798 or book on our FB page.

Optical Blog

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians

Winter Weather and your Eyes With the cold weather, most people will be thinking about scarves for the face and neck, gloves for the hands, hats for the head and warm boots for the feet. But what about the eyes?

Cold winter winds and central heating can cause havoc with the eyes, sometimes leaving them very dry, gritty, red and sore. If you’re suffering then you should keep well hydrated, take Omega-3 daily as this can help stimulate tear production, try a room humidifier and use artificial tears. It’s always best to have an eye examination to determine the exact cause of any problems.

Colds and coughs are very common in cold weather - they can be highly contagious and the germs can very easily transfer from the hands to the eyes causing various eye infections. Make sure to wash your hands (and your children’s hands) regularly to minimise the risk of infection.

Don’t put away your sunglasses yet! Summer is when we traditionally think of wearing sunglasses but they are equally important in winter, protecting our eyes from glare, harmful UV reflections from snow and ice and even acting as a barrier to block the cold air and wind. Snowy conditions reflect much more UV radiation into your eyes, so ensure you have proper UV protection especially when enjoying winter sports such as skiing/snowboarding.

Polarised sunglasses are particularly good when driving towards a low sun in wet conditions.

Winter is a good time to have your eyes tested as poor light conditions mean that your eyes have to work harder, making them more likely to feel tired and strained. If you experience any difficulties e.g. in the dark (one of the most common winter complaints) then it’s a good idea to have your eyes checked.

There’s almost always something that can be done to help.

For further information, please call us at the practice: 01505 614 700.

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Happy New Year from all of us at LEAP

For our December meeting we always have a “Christmas Competition”. It is not a serious competition but a fun night where we can relax and make sequences on any topic we want that has a ‘Christmassy’ theme. Last month we described how we can use the computer programmes to make shows and this month shows how diverse the finished sequences can be. This is due to the imagination of the author and what they choose as their starting point - images, music, a story line, a record of an event or person. We had a very varied selection with Gerry showing the “Irreverend I M Gerry Xmas Message” - a comedy sketch about Donald Trump. Kate went along a similar theme with her version of “Snow White (Hilary Clinton)” using images of seven different USA presidents. Hugh brought along “Hugh McScrooge” again (it was just as good and funny as last time!) and his other sequence showed how using scanned Christmas cards could be worked into a good show.

Val loves dogs and made “Rudolph the red-nosed Reindeer” from a totally different perspective. David’s show, although Christmassy, told the story of Bach and his beautiful music in “A Cantata”. Ronnie’s two shows were very different with “No Lights” which emphasised that Christmas is for enjoying not violence. His other show was a record/look at his father’s work as an artist -”David Kerr Logan - artist”. Bill took us out of this world with a time machine (including time and space!) with “Who Came to Christmas”.

We always have a break for tea and biscuits but as this was our party night we enjoyed lots of traditional Christmas fayre- mince pies, shortbread, cakes etc. and had a really good chat. Its always a fun evening enjoyed by all - regulars and visitors.

Our next meeting is on Monday 9th January, 7.30pm at the Carrick Centre, Houston with “The Three Amigos” (Colin, Adrian and Sue) - who knows what they will come up with!

Why not pop along and have a look - everyone is welcome!

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Thank you for making 2016 another successful year for us at LEAP. We’re delighted and proud to have helped our community throughout the year, with our Free Energy Saving Advice, LEAP Carclub, Bike Swaps, E-bike hire, LEAP YEP! Ongoing workshops, the launch and opening of ReMode in Lochwinnoch, Cycle for summer, Make It Happen energy measures, and representing local rural needs through our work with Tackling Poverty In Renfrewshire and Energy Action Scotland. Thank you all for your support and we’re looking forward to more success in 2017.

LEAP Community and residents Feedback Surveys 2016.

A BIG THANKS from LEAP to everyone who completed our Feedback Surveys. 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, so thank you! We were really keen to get people’s opinion on the impact and benefits you have accrued and to find out about all the changes you have made from your own actions as a result of the support you have accessed from LEAP. Looking into the future, we asked how LEAP can help individuals and our community in future and how you would like to get more involved. We’ll be publishing the findings soon, but If you didn’t get a chance to complete our on-line survey, you can still give your feedback online by visiting our website at www.myleapproject.org/survey In the meantime keep in touch for news and information about our services or call the LEAP team on 01505 612034 or 842530 for your information and advice requests.

ReMode upcycles clothes and remodels accessories Local craft fairs and village events are a great opportunity to showcase your services and goods, and this year ReMode got great feedback from the local public at such events.

New to the upcycled clothing range are handcrafted shopping bags made by young people and volunteers at the ReMode shop. Pop in to get a chance to pick up some original clothing or accessories made from upcycling materials and clothes at 39 High Street, Lochwinnoch. You can also find out how young people can get involved in making, designing, modelling or learning about our unique clothes range and fabric/textile upcycling techniques workshops.

Contact gillian@myleapproject.org for more information.

Free Lampshade Making and Recovering Workshops Left over fabric you don’t know what to do with? Lampshades in need of sprucing up? Come to our free workshop and learn how to make custom lampshades from left over materials. LEAP will be holding workshops in Lochwinnoch in late January/early February. If you are interested, get in touch by emailing susie@ myleapporject.org to find out more and to let us know whether an afternoon or evening workshop would suit you best.

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Lochwinnoch International Aid Lochwinnoch International Aid is a group of people who contribute to a monthly contribution scheme which allows them to support a variety of international aid charities, we also put on several fundraising events across the year. We act as the local Fairtrade Group. If people from outwith the village want to contribute to our work, we’d be pleased to hear from them. Email lochintaid@tiscali.co.uk or phone 01505 843 099 For LIA members, 2017 will be the same as last year. We’ll carry on fundraising and communicating. We’ll meet every so often to decide where we can send our little chunks of money to help where we can around the world. We can be sure that there will be several crises as well as the ongoing work carried out by so many brave and committed people in so many countries. Our donations over the past year give some idea of the range of activities. It’s a long list but these words represent a lot of effort by a lot of people.

Mary’s Meals feed one million children every morning, at schools in many countries, Practical Action have worked in Nepal over many years, Handicap International in several countries including Afghanistan, Medical Aid for Palestine (a music school in Gaza), Medecins sans Frontiers in Haiti, the Acid Attack Survivors Trust (ASTI) in Pakistan and other places, the Nightingales project helping vulnerable children in Romania, Womankind works in Bolivia, one of the poorest countries in South America. Details of all our 2016 donations will be included in our next newsletter.

For 2017, we’ll carry on putting our monthly standing orders together and using the money to give a little support to the many in need. By giving to a variety of projects we hope to remind ourselves, and others, of the range of good works that go on daily around the world by some very good humans. There are only 25 LIA members in Lochwinnoch (though we know that many more people give directly to charities on their own account). It would be nice to think that, this year, some more local people will join us in sending Lochwinnoch’s name and good wishes around the world. A small standing order or other regular contribution is all it takes. Phone 843 099 for details.

Losing Heat in Your home?

A common problem with home heat loss is that we sometimes just can’t fathom out where the heat is escaping from. Is it from the windows, doors, radiators, walls, the chimney, roof, floor skirting? In January LEAP will be helping householders to identify where heat is being lost in their homes and provide impartial advice on how to prevent further heat loss and reduce energy costs. As well as carrying out home energy checks, draught tests, our energy advisors may recommend that your home would benefit from a thermal image to give you an overall picture of home heat loss. To book a home energy assessment, or for further information, contact LEAP on www.myleapproject.org/contact, email ingrid@myleapproject.org or call 01505 842530.

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Having recently relocated to Kilmacolm I’d like to introduce Craniosacral Therapy Wellcentred, offering a Remedial & holistic approach towards Sports Massage health and wellbeing through complementary therapies: Reflexology Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy supports the existing health and vitality within the body to encourage natural healing and self-repair, effectively treating pain and symptoms arising from physical and emotional injuries, stress or trauma.

Remedial and Sports Massage is proven for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions by restoring structural alignment and increasing range of movement.

Reflexology stimulates energy flow through pressure points on the feet, targeting areas of tension and pain, inducing relaxation and rebalancing the whole system.

For appointments please contact:

Nicki King 07958 566596 wellcentred@gmail.com @nickiking18 WellcentredUK

Gryffe Valley Rotary

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Renfrew lights up for Christmas Thousands turned out for an afternoon full of festive cheer as the Renfrew Christmas Lights were switched on.

There was fun for all the family with entertainment put on in the town centre designed to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

Renfrew hosted the North Pole’s most famous resident as Santa’s grotto set up camp in the town hall - and gave youngsters a chance to make sure their Christmas list had made it to the man himself.

Santa wasn’t alone though, bringing a few of his reindeer along to keep him company - whilst also letting adults and kids alike get that perfect Christmas photo.

Outside, kids could burn off their Christmas excitement at the funfair with games to be played, rides to be enjoyed and toys to be won all afternoon.

INTERNATIONAL SERVICE Rotary has delivered 500 pairs of glasses, collected mostly at New Vision Opticians (Bridge of Weir) and Frank Munroe Optometrists (Kilmacolm) for use in developing countries.

The club has also packed 20 Back-Packs with items for use by schoolchildren.

These will be shipped to Malawi by the Mary’s Meals charity.

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And if they needed to escape the cold, the town hall had facepainting, circus workshops, arts and crafts and puppets shows - ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall led a Christmas carol service inside the town hall, with Christmas classics expertly played by the Renfrew Burgh Band.

Later in the afternoon, the main stage in the town centre - hosted by the Pulse FM - saw local solo artists showcase their talents in front of an energetic crowd - before the big switch on arrived at 5pm.

Provost Hall was joined by lucky competition winner, Mariyaa, 11, from Arkleston Primary, to turn on the lights and together they set off the spectacular fireworks display from the roof of town hall.

Provost Hall said: “I was delighted to see such a terrific turnout in the town centre for what is one of the main events of the year in Renfrew.

“It was a fantastic day for families with a variety of entertainment to keep both kids and parents entertained all afternoon.

“Our lucky competition winner Mariyaa had an experience she won’t forget and it was great to see how much she enjoyed switching on the lights for the festive season.”

The lights switch-on was organised by Renfrewshire Council as part of its town centre events programme.

For more information on events in Renfrewshire visit: www.renfrewshire.co.uk/events.

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Dental Blog

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

Dental Detox January is a time when many of us make healthy new years’ resolutions to hit the gym more, quit smoking or cut down our alcohol intake. There are also lots of things you can do to look after the health of your teeth after the excesses of Christmas and New Year.

A healthier diet is a great start! Try to cut out sugary drinks and those with high acid content. Eat plenty of raw veg. Fibrous vegetables and fruit like celery and apples will give your teeth a good old scrub, stimulate gums, and increase saliva flow. Avoid starchy snacks that can lead to the build-up of bacteria – plain popcorn is a great alternative to crisps as it acts like a natural toothbrush as it’s being chewed too. Remember all fruits have sugars and acids, so eat them with meals to lessen any harmful effects. Rice cakes, oatcakes and some crackers are low starch alternatives to bread but check the ingredients for added sugar.

You may also want to consider getting your dentist or dental hygienist to give your teeth a deep clean. Air polishing is a simple, low cost but highly effective solution to remove staining from teeth – particularly that caused by red wine, coffee or smoking. The harmless process involves “blasting” the surface of your teeth with tiny granules using high pressure air - a bit like sand blasting for teeth. For more marked results most dentists now offer a range of teeth whitening options.

If you would like any more advice on how to care for or improve the look of your teeth visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental. co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips.

Christmas Recycling Recycle your Christmas cards in your blue recycling bin or in the paper bank at your nearest bring site or recycling site.

Real Christmas trees should be taken to your nearest recycling site and put in the green waste skips (see p44 for more info). Please ensure that all decorations are removed before putting your tree in the skip.

Christmas cards are recycled back into cardboard products e.g. packaging materials, cat litter. You can re-use old cards to make gift tags and new cards.

Please ensure that cards with foil or glitter are not placed in the recycling bin as this type of material causes contamination.

Re-useable artificial trees should be donated to charity shops.

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January

events

Thu 5 January

Sun 8 January

Sat 14 January

Outlook Welcome Afternoon

There and Back – Ranger’s Walk

Rotary Burns Supper

Welcome afternoon with Speed friendship Quiz, plus some familiar traditional songs with special guest Ted.

Start the year in the way you mean to go on!

Get outside with our Rangers for a free guided walk around the Greenock Cut. Call for further information and to book: 01475 521 458.

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

Fri 6 - Fri 13 January St Columba School Entrance Assessments

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm

Entrance assessments for Early Years, Junior School and Senior School begin on 6th January.

Please see the nursery and schools section of this issue for specific dates or visit www.stcolumbas.org

Sat 7 January Volunteer Come & Try

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 11am to 2pm

Tue 10 January Bridge of Weir Elderly Forum

Royal British Legion, Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 3pm

A speaker from R.O.A.R (Reaching out to Older Adults in Renfrewshire) will be present. All welcome.

Thu 12 January Sòlas Bereavement Group

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 6.30pm to 8.30pm All welcome.

Fri 13 January Advertizer February Deadline

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 10.30am to 2.30pm

A Greenock Cut Visitor Centre Volunteer Open Day. See some of the past tasks and projects and speak to the regulars. Tel for more information: 01475 521 458.

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Neva Place, Bridge of Weir If you would like anything published in our February issue, please email info@advertizer. co.uk or call the office on 01505 613340.

The River Inn, Houston 6.30pm Great food and entertainment in the traditional style. Raffle in aid of Rotary charities. Tickets, £37.50 for sale from members.

Woodland Crafts: Willow Weaving Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 1pm - 3pm drop in

Weave some willow or make a craft from natural materials. Cost - £5 per person. Call for further information: 01505 842 882.

Thu 19 January Outlook

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm A talk by the Crossreach Charity to give us a better insight into the homes and services for people in rehabilitation after drugs misuse, prison, homelessness and family abuse.

Fri 20 January Burns ‘n’ Stuff

Bernie’s Cafe Deli, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir 6.30 pm to 11pm

A light-hearted celebration of our national bard and general Scottishness - 3 course Burns Supper, a wee dram & entertainment. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tel: 01505 614333. £24.95

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Fri 20 - Sat 28 Jan

Wed 25 January

Sat 28 January

Art in the Park

Monte Carlo Rally

Birds for Beginners

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

The annual exhibition by the Lochwinnoch Art Group, works to view and purchase. Call for further information: 01505 842 882.

Sat 21 January Lochwinnoch Explorers: Garden Birds

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon Calling all children! Come along and learn about nature, but most importantly, get dirty and have fun doing it! 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

Sat 21 - Sun 22 Jan RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 9.30am to 4pm

This course teaches you to drive a powerboat safely in any environment. Cost - £150. Call for further information: 01505 842 882.

Sun 22 January Thymes Past

Holy Trinity & Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church, Moss Street, Paisley 3.30pm

A selection of folk and popular songs from The Arkleston Singers plus the chance to win a hamper of Scottish goodies (raffle in aid of choir funds). Tickets £5 - available from members, by phone from 01505 850 344/07932 680951 OR at the door

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 6pm For the fourth time, Paisley is the sole UK start point for the 2017 historic rally run to Monte Carlo. Why not pop along and see some of the amazing cars making the 1,300 mile trip to the South of France. More information can be found at www.monte.scot

Evening Talk

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm What makes the three towns of Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston so special for birds?

Tom Byars is a bird watcher with 35 years of experience and is an authority on lesser whitethroats in Scotland. He will share with us stories of his birding experiences, the rarities he has spotted, and how the fortunes of many species have changed over the years. Please pay when booking as places are limited (refunds available if cancelled over 48hrs before) Cost: Adults: £5; Children: £3 (RSPB members: £3/£2)

Thu 26 January The British Betrayal of India

Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

Join acclaimed author of military history, Walter Reid, for a glass of wine and lively debate on Britain’s role in India after WW2. In Keeping the Jewel in the Crown, he presents evidence to suggest that Britain held back India’s progress, leading to chaos in 1947 with repercussions still being felt today. Email vfinnigan@st-Columbus.org to reserve your free place. Creative Communities is a charitable outreach programme of St Columbus’s School, Kilmacolm

Sat 28 January Peter’s Railway Picnic

Get up close with blue tits, chaffinches, great tits and occasionally woodpeckers as they are given their identifying ‘bling’! Call for further information: 01505 842 882.

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RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 11am to 1.30pm Learn more about common garden birds and pick up tips and advice on wildlife watching techniques.

After this, we’ll head out onto the reserve to put these new skills into practise and then top it all off with a hot drink back at the centre. Please book, as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5; Children: £3 (RSPB members: £3/£2)

Sun 29 January Come and Sing Haydn’s Creation

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 6.30pm Directed by George McPhee, with Orchestra.

Performance: 6.30pm – tickets £5. All singer applications are welcomed but places will be allocated on a first come basis to enable the conductor to achieve as balanced a choir as possible. There will be no formal dress code.

Information for singers on how to apply, pay and hire scores etc. can be had at 0141 848 1392 or from proutley@talktalk.net

Healing Service

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 7pm

Those suffering from illness, sadness, worry and/ or depression can appreciate the opportunity for supportive prayer. After the service, for those wishing more confidential support, provision will be made for written requests for a home visit.

Alternatively just phone our minister Rev. Kenneth Gray (01505 690918), who will be delighted to arrange a visit.

Fri 3 February Fundraising Scottish Country Dance

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 7.30pm to 10.30pm

Bird Ringing

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10am to 3.30pm drop in

january 2017

New Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 1pm to 3pm

Join author Chris Vine in reliving the journey in one of his most loved stories, Peter’s Railway, The Picnic. You will get to build and operate your own model railway. A light snack will be provided. Ages 4 - 9. To reserve a free place please email Victoria Finnigan: vfinnigan@st-columbas.org Creative Communities is a charitable outreach programme of St Columbus’s School, Kilmacolm

A fundraising dance with music by Ian Muir for Gryffe High School’s project which aims to give pupils overseas experience in developing countries. Information, programme details, or tickets @ £8.00 available from Ann Harper 01505 613753 or Les Lambert 01505 704398 or any member of our club.

Sat 4 February Leap Bike Swap

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street, Kilbarchan 12noon to 2pm

Bike Swap at the Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall bikes of all sizes and conditions welcome!

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every Monday

2nd & 4th Wednesday

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

BoW Senior Citizens Club

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

Cargill Hall 7 - 9pm

This event will not take place on public holidays.

Tea, biscuits & a raffle each meeting along with entertainment. Contact Sheila Patterson for further information on 01505 690521.

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.

Postnatal Support Group Paisley Abbey 10.30am - 12noon

Crèche facilities available along with access to free counselling services if required.

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

Knitters of all levels welcome!

Skinny Minnies

Rock Choir

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7pm - 8pm

For a healthier, slimmer, more energetic you!

Join your local rock choir and sing out. The group rehearses pop, rock and Motown tunes and performs at a variety of events and shows. No prior singing experience is needed and your first taster is free.

Rock Choir is much more than a choir – it’s a multi layered singing experience. The power of music, meeting new friends and performing at life changing events together contribute to an emotional and powerful journey for our members. We have been perfecting Rock Choir for a decade now and have achieved an award-winning standard of excellence in both the educational and emotional aspects of what we try to do.

Rock Choir is the pioneering contemporary choir of the UK and remains unique with over 20,000 members enjoying it across the UK. Each member is welcomed into the Rock Choir family and their journey with us allows music, friendship and a new found confidence to impact their everyday lives. Together we have created a safe, up-lifting and exciting experience just for you.

As a new member, you may choose to simply rehearse with your friends or take to the stage and join them at a variety of Rock Choir events and shows – it’s up to you. You can take as much or as little from the experiences on offer. You

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

Conser vation Volunteers - adult group.

Newcomers always welcome.

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

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

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

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Houston Litter Crew

last Friday monthly

Co-op car park 10am – 11.45am

TheTerrace

All volunteers welcome and all equipment supplied.

YOUR TICKET TO LOCAL EVENTS

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St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall

Homemade soups, sandwiches, tea/coffee, biscuits. £4. Good food and company.

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

This is a free event. Call 01505 328802 for details. regular updates @GryffeAds

SAT Ballet West present

never have to sing on your own or be under any pressure.

The Albany Theatre, 10 Orangefield Place, Greenock, Renfrewshire, PA15 1YX Monday 16th January, Monday 23rd January & Monday 30th January at 8pm in the Downstairs Studio - £25 a month, free taster For information, Email: office@rockchoir.com Website: www.rockchoir.com

looking for someone local?

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28 JAN

Swan Lake

Paisley Town Hall 7.30pm £12/£10 (concession) in the stalls and centre balcony and selected seats £10/8 (concession) in the side balconies.

A moving adaptation of the original choreography, the dancers of Ballet West tell the story of the love of a young man for the cursed Odette, who is destined to spend her life as a swan, unless true love can release her from the spell of the evil Von Rothbart.

1st SAT Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm

1st & 3rd SUN Loch Lomond Shores

10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2nd THU & last SAT Paisley Cross

10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217

2nd SUN Kip Marina, Inverkip 11am - 4pm www.kipmarina.co.uk

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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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Come and Sing Haydn - The Creation with Orchestra Directed by George McPhee on Sunday 29th January 2017 Rehearsal: 2.30pm (entry from 2pm)

Singers:

Adult (with own score) £15 : Adult (hiring score on day) £20 : Adult (score before day) £35 : Students/school pupils £5 (incl £10 refundable deposit)

Performance: 6.30pm – Tickets £5 *All adult singers will receive one free audience ticket on arrival

All singer applications are welcomed but places will be allocated on a first come basis to enable the conductor to achieve as balanced a choir as possible.

NB: There will be a limited number of scores available to pre-book and hire. There will be no formal dress code. Information for singers on how to apply, pay and hire scores etc., can be had at 0141 848 1392 or from proutley@talktalk.net Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. SC007633

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Fundraising Scottish Country Dance A fundraising dance will be held in the Kilbarchan Guide Centre on Friday 3rd February from 7.30pm - 10.30pm. Music by Ian Muir.

Gryffe High School is supporting a project which aims to give pupils overseas experience in developing countries. An expedition to Mongolia is planned with pupils expected to make a substantial contribution towards their own costs. Gryffe SCD Club is supporting young Marie Harper in this venture, so, Scottish Country Dancers - come along and enjoy a great evening of music and dance, and support Marie at the same time.

Information, programme details, or tickets @ £8 available from Ann Harper 01505 613753 or Les Lambert 01505 704398 or any member of our club.

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society Kilmacolm Dramatic Society would like to thank everyone who supported our pantomime Dick Whittington in November. It was a great success and we thank everyone for braving the weather and coming along as part of our very active audience!

Look out on our FB page and Cargill Centre noticeboard for information on our next play and read through dates.

Should anyone like to help in any way it would be lovely to hear from you. Back stage crew, set building/design, painting, costume, lighting and sound are all required to put on a play as well as actors so please get in touch if you are interested in any aspect.

In the meantime KDS would like to wish everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year and all the best for 2017.

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january 2017

19

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Financial Blog

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd

Avoiding Financial Scams Many innocent people, fooled by convincing scam artists, are losing their life savings and pension funds in plausible sounding “investment opportunities”. How can you protect yourself from becoming yet another victim?

1. Ban on cold calling - The Government has agreed to ban cold calling in relation to pension advice. This won’t stop the scammers (who don’t respect any rules) but if you get such a cold call, you will know it is not coming from a regulated advice firm.

2. Don’t engage – if you receive a call, just hang up. Don’t engage in conversation. However, if you do get caught out what should you look out for?

3. Incoming number hidden – the number of the caller will not show, so you won’t be able to see the phone number from which you are being called. Often these calls originate from outside the UK. 4. Sounds Plausible – scammers are very smooth talkers and very convincing. They will try to “hook” you with a special offer or incredible investment opportunity that sounds very attractive.

5. High returns on offer – the opportunity presented will sound very tempting, promising very high returns relative to the interest you can currently get on cash savings. If the return sounds too good to be true – it is.

6. Buy now – You will be encouraged to invest immediately before the special offer expires and you lose out. No investment is that great that you need to do it immediately.

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7. Transfer your pension – many scams involve asking you to transfer your pension benefits to a self-invested pension plan (SIPP) which permits investment in “unregulated” investments such as residential property or other exotic investments.

8. Not FCA regulated – legitimate advice firms are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and you have protection if you receive bad advice. Scammers are not regulated. Ask for their FCA firm number and check https://register.fca.org.uk/ Be safe and avoid becoming yet another victim of scammers.

This information is not financial advice. If you require advice you should consult a professional adviser. The first meeting is normally free and there is no obligation Call us for a FREE financial review on 01505 59 50 60 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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january 2017

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Paisley Colour Photo’ Club

Gryffe Camera Club

Joint Winners of Paisley Colour’s Summer Assignment 2016

Gryffe Camera Club have enjoyed a wide range of speakers over the last month.

The judging of Paisley Colour Photographic Club’s Summer Assignment Competition 2016 took place recently at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew. PCPC were very pleased to welcome Boyd Meiklejohn from Ayr Photographic Society to judge the competition and he gave a very thorough and detailed critique of 88 images ensuring that each entry satisfied the requirements of each of the seven themes for the competition – Mechanical Parts, Summer Rain, Standing Out From The Crowd, At The Coast, Contre-Jour, High Speed and A Touch Of Red. Entry, open to all members, consisted of up to four images, one from any four of the seven themes and each image was marked out of twenty.

In the Mechanical Parts section “Avenger” by Guy Phillips was top image. The top “Summer Rain” image was “Water, Water Everywhere” by David Scott and the “Standing Out From The Crowd” winning image was “Red Poppy” by George Birnie. Duncan McEwan’s images entitled “Breakers” and “Sunbeams Over Torridon” were judged to be top “At The Coast” image and the top “Contre-Jour” image respectively whilst the “High Speed” winning image was by Tony Barr entitled “Red Arrow Display”. In the final of the seven sections Bill Ham’s beached boat image with “A Touch Of Red” was the winning image.

Tom Doherty showed some wonderful old images of Glasgow, with more recent versions of the same views to show the changes over time.

Dennis Alyshev amazed us with 3D images taken on his travels in Scotland, Japan, Russia, to name a few.

Alistair Swan gave us Travels around the Globe, with stunning images and captivating stories to go with them.

In Competitions the quality of work keeps coming through.

In the “Scapes” Competition the lead images were Grande Jorasses by Andy Stark, Rannoch Moor by Barbara Martin, with St Monans breakwater

by Malcom Martin and Clyde View by Jim McNab coming second.

This year there were joint overall winners of the competition Guy Phillips and Ken Dow, each scoring 72 points.

Guy’s winning set included his high speed image “Out of the Hairpin” and Ken’s top set of four winning images

included his at the coast image “Getting Away from It All” and his touch of red image “Red Veined Darter”.

Meetings continue on Thursday evenings throughout the winter and spring with a variety of lectures and club competitions.

Visitors are always welcome. For more details about the club and to see members galleries please visit: www.paisleycolour. co.uk In our 3rd competition, there were joint winners of Rosie Growling by Al Goold and Spiral Stair by Malcom Martin in the Advanced section, Fly Bee

by Ronnie Logan leading the Beginners section. Joint second places went to Easy Meal by Sandy Thomson and The Driver by Roger Calvert in the Advanced and Luskintyre Beach by Barbara Martin in the Beginners.

While meetings will take a break over the holiday period, we will return to the second half of our varied programme in January. See the Club website for further details.

Meetings are Wednesday 7.30pm at the Carrick Centre, Houston.

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Stylish, Durable: A Floor for Life When choosing a new floor for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration.

For a lot of our clients, having a floor that isn’t going to be ruined by mucky feet, paw prints or spills is a top priority. For this reason, light cream carpets can be problematic for many busy households.

Karndean and Amtico flooring are perfect for any room or situation in the home. They are both waterproof, slip resistant and warm underfoot, as well as being a beautiful and luxurious floor to be proud of.

Both are easy to clean and without the porous qualities of wood and some stone. They bring the ageless beauty of natural flooring to your home without the hassle.

Be it a rustic wood effect in the living room or a sleek and modern stone effect in the kitchen, Orchard Flooring can provide expert advice to find the perfect floor for a room.

With a home sampling service why not give us a call and be on your way to a stunning floor from Orchard Flooring.

You can contact Scott on 01505 22 9584 or 07563 633 432 E: sjmproducts@hotmail.com website- www.orchard-flooring.com

Langbank Camera Club

Kilmacolm Camera Club

November’s print competition was “Transport”. The entries submitted were very diverse, from the old to the new and from the traditional to the downright unusual from around the world. First place was awarded to Alastair McKenzie for

The first of our internal league competitions was judged by Marty McNaughton, of Beith Camera Club.

The theme was “Open”, which meant that landscapes were in competition with action shots and flowers – all in all, a good variety of entries. In the Prints section, Tina Marr was first, with “Sunrise at Callanish,” Bill Ham was second, with “Gallery of Modern Art Stairway” and Janice Stevenson came third, with “Tenerife Sunset.”

his image “At Inverary” with the Vital Spark reflecting bygone days of the way goods were transported around Scotland. Second place

was awarded to John Davies for his image “Reed Cutter” which is a vehicle used to clear and maintain many of the small lochs around the country. The third placed image was “Waiting for a Train” by Derrick McPherson.

In the Digital section, David Addison was first, with “Last Fence,” David Walker came second, with “An Imminent Dooking” and Bill Ham was third, with “Rainbow at Balcary Bay.” Some of the winning images are shown here.

December’s presentation was the continuation of our “no automatic here” theme where we discussed and demonstrated the use of the semiautomatic and manual modes of the camera, especially when dealing with stationary and moving objects. The presentation was well received and prompted much discussion and questions. January’s presentation topic is High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography.

Novembers PDI meeting (held on the last Monday of the month) was well attended and provided some beautiful images of Autumn - “Mugdock Park” by James Goodall, “Garden Robin” by Derrick McPherson and “November Chill” by David Rutherford.

We’ve also spent an evening viewing the standard of images required to attain photographic initials after one’s name. (I rather fancy “KGB” - Kodak Gratispool Brownie? Well, maybe not!) An interesting evening, anyway.

Please come along and meet us all. No initials or qualifications necessary!

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

Since this is the last club news of 2016 we would like to wish readers of the Gryffe Advertizer all the very best for 2017.

The main January meeting will be held on 9th January 2017 at 7.30pm.

The print competition topic for December was “Rain”. The competition for the PDI meeting, 23rd January at 7.30pm, is “Bokeh”.

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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 contact Derrick McPherson at langbankcc1@ gmail.com with your enquiries.

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Renfrew Speakers Club The Association of Speakers Clubs http://www.speakersclubs.uk/

Inverclyde School’s Clean Sweep At the recent Grand Final of the Association of Speakers Clubs S3 Schools Youth Speech Competitions held in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew the winning team and the runners up team were both from Inverclyde Schools.

The competing teams were the winners and runner ups from the heats of the three local authority competitions in Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire and Renfrewshire.

In the final the teams were given a choice of Topics to choose one from: 1. Do referenda have a legitimate role to play in a parliamentary democracy?

2. Is prison the best way to deal with people who have broken the law?

3. Should sportsmen and sportswomen be allowed to take performance enhancing drugs as drug-taking seems to be widespread in many sports and increasingly difficult to detect?

The winning team from St Columba’s High School chose Topic No. 1 and are shown in the photograph from left to right holding the John Richardson Quaich Trophy with Main Speaker: Callum Laing, Chairperson: Lewis Morrison, and carrying out the Vote of Thanks: Kara Leck. On the right is Bill Leeming of Renfrew Speakers Club and the Competition Final’s Chairman.

The runners up team from Inverclyde Academy also chose Topic No. 1 and they are shown in the photograph from left to right with Chairperson: Freya Rennie, their teacher Lindsey O’Shea, and carrying out the Vote of Thanks: Rachel McKenzieMarner and Main Speaker: Abigail Cameron.

of Speakers Clubs.

As shown in the photograph the winners of last year’s Grand Final, East Renfrewshire Mearns Castle High School, the Team’s teacher Miss Laitano on the left was presented with a commemorative Ice Wedge Trophy by Margaret Robertson of the Greenock Ladies Speakers Club and a former President of the Association

The Chief Judge Graham McLachlan of Renfrew Speakers Club, and also a former President of the Association of Speakers Clubs, spoke highly of the standard of public speaking that had been displayed by all competitors; he rated it the highest so far, outstanding and wondered what next year’s competition had in store. He gave both constructive criticism and helpful advice to further improve on the already high standard of public speaking that had been achieved.

Acknowledgement is given with thanks for the excellent final competition photographs provided by Natalierosephotography92@gmail/com Natalie Raeburn is a photography student with the West of Scotland College, Paisley.

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Scottish Leather Group Companies Triumph At Roccos Scottish Leather Group, the largest leather manufacturer in the United Kingdom saw no less than three of its subsidiaries commended at the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards (ROCCOs) 2016.

Bridge of Weir Leather Company, the Group’s automotive leather specialists, took the 2016 award for International Trade – beating a very strong shortlist of some of Scotland’s most prolific exporters to the accolade.

Sister companies, NCT Leather and W.J. & W. Lang were both shortlisted for the Excellence in Manufacturing Award, with both commended on the night for making the very competitive shortlist in this category.

Scottish Leather Group also proudly presented the 2016 ROCCO Award for Customer Service, which went to Intu Braehead.

Speaking from the Awards, Scottish Leather Group’s CEO, Iain McFadyen, said: “It’s an honour to be involved with the ROCCO Awards again in 2016, and to see this gathering of Renfrewshire businesses grow year on year and become more and more international in stature. To win awards here is an even greater honour, among our highly respected peers, who provide the most competitive of shortlists for each of the categories. On behalf of the Scottish Leather Group and its named subsidiaries tonight – Bridge of Weir Leather Company, NCT Leather and W. J. and W. Lang – thank you to the ROCCO judges – you have made us extremely proud.”

Now in its 13th year, the ROCCO Awards ceremony saw its largest gathering of Renfrewshire businesses to date at the glittering ceremony in The Normandy Hotel, Renfrew, on Friday 18th November.

With a combined heritage of nearly 500 years and its leather exported to over 60 countries around the world, Scottish Leather Group companies are a continuing international success story, supplying many of the world’s best known businesses and brands.

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Legal Blog

by Isabella McKerrow, Affinity Family Law

Division of Matrimonial Property on Divorce Divorce is the process by which a legally subsisting marriage is terminated by the court. In Scotland, financial claims must be made prior to decree of divorce being granted. Decree of divorce terminates the right to make a financial claim.

Financial claims on divorce are governed by the Family Law (Scotland) Act 1985. Matrimonial property is classed as “all property belonging to the parties at the date of separation acquired by either of them during the marriage”. Property acquired by gift or succession from a third party is excluded. Consequently gifts between spouses are matrimonial property.

Any property belonging to parties prior to the marriage remains their own property and is not taken in to account. The exception is where a party buys a house prior to the marriage with a view to using it as a matrimonial home.

Where a party sells property acquired before the marriage and uses the funds towards purchasing property during the marriage, whether taken in sole or joint names, that property becomes matrimonial property and is taken into account.

The starting point for division of the net matrimonial assets is that matrimonial property should be shared fairly between the parties. Fair sharing does not necessarily mean equal sharing. It may mean unequal sharing if there are special circumstances justifying this. A source of funds argument is one example, i.e. a party owned a house prior to marriage and sold it and used the proceeds to purchase property either in their sole or joint names during the marriage. That party could argue for an unequal share in their favour to take account of this.

Financial claims on divorce can be complicated and you should seek advice from a specialist family lawyer, preferably one accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a “specialist.”

Soroptimists Celebrate 80th Anniversary

On Saturday 19th November, members of Soroptimist International of Paisley joined other Soroptimists from across the South of Scotland to mark 80 years of work to improve the lives of women and girls locally, nationally and internationally. 23 Past Presidents of Scotland South Region were present at the gathering in Kirkintilloch, which also marked the first meeting of current Scotland South President Melanie Brickley.

The 23 ladies have 651 years of service between them – an amazing achievement, with many still actively involved in the work being carried out by their Clubs.

Included amongst those present were four members of S.I. Paisley who are past presidents – Margaret Neil from Paisley, Jenifer McFarlane and Carolyn Lockhart from Johnstone and Sue Williams from Lochwinnoch.

Those present enjoyed reminiscing along with tea and cake, before hearing about the work of Dress for Success, a charity which offers help to disadvantaged women trying to get back into the workplace.

Photo: Left to Right - Jenifer McFarlane, Carolyn Lockhart, Margaret Neil and Sue Williams

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On Wednesday 30th November, the speaker was Wilma Morrison with the subject “The Forgotten Princess”. Wilma is a former banking colleague of Rotarian, Dan Mungin.

Nowadays she is a regular volunteer for the National Trust of Scotland at Pollock House, currently involved with the Christmas events.

She followed up her fascination with a portrait of Princess Charlotte in Pollock House and researched her life and times. Charlotte was a much loved Princess and the last surviving Hanoverian heir. She would have inherited the throne from her father King George IV had she not died tragically in 1817 during childbirth at the age of 21, leading to succession of Queen Victoria.

YOUTH SERVICES Gryffe Valley Rotary’s Youth Speaks Competition took place on Tuesday 22nd November 2016 at Kilmacolm Community Centre. Five teams from St Columba’s School and Gryffe High School competed.

The varied subjects included: The Music Industry, Cyberbullying, The Brilliance of Basketball, Drug Taking in Sport and Is Prison the Best Option? There was good support from parents and friends, and a high standard of debate was enjoyed by all. The Gryffe High School team comprising Sophie Spence, Esme James, and Jack Young (shown in the right-hand photograph) were the winners of the Intermediate section, whilst the school’s Senior team comprising Drew Surgenor, Alex Lee, and Kristin Reade (shown in the left hand photograph) were runners up to the St Columba’s team of Mark Connolly, Lawerence Lavizani, and Dominic Bogle. The winning teams now go through to the district final.

Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley SPEAKERS A guest of Angus Matheson, Captain Sean Rathbone spoke to the club on 16th November on the work of the Northern Lighthouse Board. A resident of Houston, Sean had worked for the Blue Star Line for 14 years and on Troop ships during the Falklands War, since then he had been with the Lighthouse Trust and was currently skipper of the “NLV Pharos”. Sean gave us a fascinating, illustrated talk on the history and construction of lighthouses over the past 200 years and a host of interesting facts viz; there are 206 lighthouses and 165 Navigation Buoys around our coasts, the first being on the Isle of May in 1636; the Stevenson family had been involved in their construction from 1786-1935 their finest achievements being the Bell Rock and Skerryvore. After many questions Mike Farley thanked Sean for an excellent presentation, which belied his confession that he was an inexperienced speaker, and wished him well for his voyage the following morning to Muckle Flugga Lighthouse on Unst, Shetland.

On Wednesday 23rd November, a guest of Ronnie Mercer, Dr. Scott Hendry was the speaker. He is a Consultant Paediatrician at the Royal Hospital for Children which is part of the £842m Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, and gave an excellent and uplifting presentation on the inner workings of this vital service to Scotland’s children. What we heard was a credit to the NHS and quite different from what we hear from various parts of the media. The hospital caters from birth to 16 years old, and most of its 55,000 patients per year are pre-school age. It operates extended hours over seven days now and will formally be 24/7 soon. It has 256 beds, 26 intensive care units and 9 operating theatres and has been beautifully designed with the help of clinicians in-house. Interestingly Scott trained and worked in Australia and one of the evening’s guests was a Rotarian from Australia, so the questioning had an extra dimension to it. All in all this was a fascinating insight for Gryffe Valley Rotarians.

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The final of the Gryffe Valley Rotary Young Chef competition took place on the 1st December at Gryffe High School. All contestants were provided by Gryffe High School and St Columba’s School. There was a high standard of cooking from all of the young people. Each of the boys and girls showed dedication and commitment to the culinary arts, one student even competing on his birthday!

Prizes were presented to Amy Cooper from Gryffe High School and Christopher Howe and Scott Downie from St Columba’s and to the winner on the night, Charlotte Westwood (St Columba’s), who served up a menu of Chicken Teriyaki and Noodles followed by a Fruit Flan of bananas, peaches, pineapple and cream.

All prizes were provided by our sponsors, Gibb Stuart with the kind support of Paul Hollywood of Bake Off fame. Sandy Gibb Stuart presented the prizes in person to each of the contestants, who were all delighted with their cornucopia of delights, which included signed copies of Paul Hollywood’s latest book. Our thanks go to our Judges, our sponsors and especially to the contestants and schools for their continued support.

FUTURE EVE NT S Planning is well underway for events early in 2017.

Sat 14th January: Burn’s Supper. Our annual event with great food and entertainment in the traditional style. Tickets for sale from members.

23rd - 31st January: The Club has arranged to take groups of Renfrewshire Young Carers, up to 100 in total, for an evening away from their duties for a fun night at The Experience at Hillington with a meal and go-karting.

Wed 2nd February: Dinner and celebration of 100 years of Rotary Foundation, the Rotary charity.

Wed 15th February: Valentines Dinner for members and partners.

People interested in hearing our speakers, attending events and finding out more about Rotary are encouraged to speak to a member or contact the club via use the contact facility on the website www.gryffevalley-rotary. org.uk/

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Join Leap Car Club Now And Receive £25 Free Driving LEAP Car Club provides not-for-profit 24/7 community car hire in Lochwinnoch, Kilbarchan and Bridge of Weir.

Cars are easy to access and can be hired for as little as an hour or as long as you want. You don’t pay for fuel, tax, insurance, cleaning or maintenance. So if you want access to a hassle free car, which can help you cut the

Call 01475 717171 Report online at https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/en vironment/roads-lighting/report-a -fault

SEE A POTHOLE REPORT IT!

You can also write to: Inverclyde Council Municipal Buildings Clyde Square GREENOCK PA15 1LY

Call 0300 3000 300 Online fault report at https://selfservice.renfrewshire. gov.uk/Ef3/General.jsp?form=S S_RoadAndLightFault&page=pg _locatestreet You can also write to: Community Resources Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley, PA1 1BR

costs and environmental impact of driving, get in touch now. To find out more contact Car Club Coordinator Mike Callaghan T: 01505 842530 E: mike@myleapproject.org.

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Lane at Burnshields looking towards Howwood by Diaporama bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (10 am - 12 noon) during the winter months. If you’d like to try lacemaking we can provide materials & tuition.

For further details phone (01505) 613967.

The RagBag Recycle bin is in the school car park of Langbank Primary School for any of your unwanted textiles (no duvets or pillows). Any money raised from this will go to Langbank Playgroup.

If anyone has any items and is unable to get to the recycle bin please call Jacqueline on 01475 540728. Thank you in advance.

BAE Systems has opened a new car park at Bishopton train station, providing commuters with extra parking as part of a £1.1m investment in the local infrastructure.

Bridge of Weir Lace Group

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Langbank SWI

RagBag Recycle Bin - Langbank

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Thursday 19th January, 2017 The Village Centre, Middlepenny Road The first meeting of the new year will be a Scottish Evening.

Competitions will be: 4 x cheese scones The Rural Grace (handwritten) Scottish Holiday Souvenir

BoW Senior Citizens Club

We meet at Cargill Hall every 2nd and 4th Wednesday 7 - 9pm. Subscriptions are only £6 per year and £1 each week pays for your tea and biscuits.

Entertainment provided.

Previous entertainers include a male voice choir & live music. Contact Sheila Patterson for further information on 01505 690521.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Weir Networking

On Friday 20th January in Amaretto, Bridge of Weir at 9.30am, The Weir Networking Group’s Guest Speaker will be Samantha Poling from the BBC Frontline Scotland. Winner of Three Bafta awards and an extremely Interesting lady.

About Samantha Poling:In1998 she joined BBC Scotland, and later became the channel’s Health Correspondent. She still works for the channel on BBC Scotland Investigates.

In 2002 she moved into investigative journalism, making the film The Untouchable about a senior police officer who had raped and stalked a female who he had met through his work. He was later jailed for 12 years for the attacks. She then joined Frontline, making investigative films, including the award winning Critical Error which investigated overdoses in radiotherapy treatment for cancer patients in hospitals around the UK, which prompted changes in the way radiotherapy dosages are delivered. She later spent time in Iraq filming a documentary about the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, and travelled to India to examine the call centre industry for a programme about banking.

In 2004, Poling made the multi-award winning film Security Wars, in which she went undercover to expose a cartel of gunmen and convicted murderers involved in lucrative national security contracts. The film forced the legislative tighteningup of security legislation, and won Poling the first of her three BAFTA’s.

In October 2012, Poling filmed Britain’s Private War, which exposed flaws in G4S’s security vetting procedures.

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New Car Park Provides Additional Parking For Bishopton Commuters As part of its transformation of the former Royal Ordnance Factory into Dargavel Village, the Company has invested in improving and enhancing the environmental quality, amenity and safety of some significant links around Bishopton train station. This includes upgrading and extending the overflow car park at the station and improving the drainage and road surfaces on Birch Road, Station Road and Sachelcourt Avenue.

After seven months of work, the overflow car park at Bishopton train station is now open. The area has been extended to create 150 parking spaces – 60 more than the previous car park. New LED lighting has been installed in and around the car park to create a safer, well-lit parking area.

LED lighting has also been installed along the link path between the train station and Dargavel Village, creating a safer, well-lit route for pedestrians and cyclists, and on Station Road to improve visibility for users.

Jon Gettinby, Bishopton Programme Manager for BAE Systems Shared Services, said: “We recognise the importance to the local community of having safe, connected routes through the Village to give the local community better access to amenities and transport links. We are committed to improving and enhancing these where possible as part of our ongoing development of Dargavel Village.

Our aim with these improvements has been to create an environment that makes the centre of Bishopton more accessible and user-friendly for pedestrians and cyclists.”

The Company has also invested in Birch Road, resurfacing it to create a shared spaced giving priority to cyclists and pedestrians. The road surface has been constructed of different materials to those used on other roads and pathways to make it easily identifiable as a shared area. New lighting has also been installed along the road, creating a safer, more user-friendly route through the Bishopton.

The work to Birch Road will be completed by the end of December 2016.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Healing Service Sunday 29th January at 7pm Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir Those suffering from illness, sadness, worry and/or depression can appreciate the opportunity for supportive prayer. Following the lead of Jesus who sent his disciples out “to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick” all who would appreciate the opportunity to share in this service will be more than welcome at Freeland Church of Scotland on the evening of the last Sunday in January.

After the service, for those wishing more confidential support, provision will be made for written requests for a home visit. Alternatively just phone our minister Rev. Kenneth Gray (01505 690918), who will be delighted to arrange a visit. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Pirie Information Centre The Pirie Information Centre has served the village since 1988 providing information on bus and train timetables, theatre information, places of interest, further education and evening classes to name but a few. We also compile a village information booklet which has been invaluable to newcomers to the village and the surrounding area as well as holding passport forms thereby saving people a journey into Johnstone or Paisley for those. Mondays in Bridge of Weir seem to be very quiet these days for whatever reason and we have decided that the Pirie should now only be open on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 10 am to 12 noon. Nothing else will change - the helpful volunteers will still be there to give you a warm welcome and to answer your questions and provide you with the information you require. Do pop in on either of these days and browse our selection of leaflets.

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Is 2017 the year when you begin, build or extend your embroidery skills? Bridge of Weir Branch are proud to announce our 2017 programme, featuring talks and hands-on sessions. We meet on the first and third Wednesday each month, at 7.30pm in the Bridge Community Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. This year’s first meeting is a fascinating introduction to the textiles and unique techniques of Bhutan, on 18th January.

A representation from St Mary’s Church, lead by Rector David Gifford, attended the recent meeting of the Community Council requesting the relocation the 30mph speed limit from its present position on Johnstone Road to a location beyond St Mary’s Church. At present the existing road markings have made no improvement in reducing the speed of vehicles at the entrance to the Church.

Vehicles are regularly speeding passed this location often at speeds of up to 60mph making it highly dangerous for people crossing the road to attend services, meetings and events. Councillor James MacLaren has agreed to assist the Church on how to make representation to Renfrewshire Councils Audit Scrutiny and Petitions Board.

Calling all stitchers!

Bridge of Weir Community Council

New Year, new hobby? We have a limited number of places on our all-day classes, firstly on 18th March, when Margot McIntyre holds an all-day programme on crewel work. Our second set of classes are on 6th and 7th April, when participants on Alison King’s “Landmarks” course will use a variety of media to create an individual, unique artwork. If you are interested, please contact Branch Secretary, Elaine Gallaher at egallaher@btinternet.com

THE CLYDEBANK CITADEL BAND St Machar’s Ranfurly Church on Sunday 19th February at 3pm Tickets £5 including refreshments Music for all tastes Tickets available at church or from Morven 612286

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir SWI Our group had a very enjoyable Christmas meal in December followed by entertainment by Music Box. The decorations we made at our November meeting brightened up our festive tables. The Christmas spirit continued later in the month with an outing to the pantomime.

We start the new year with a meeting on Thursday 5th January entitled “Dem Bones”. The speaker will be Dr. Morag Throw who will be advising us on bone health. We meet in the British Legion Hall at 7.15 for 7.30pm and will give a warm welcome to visitors as well as our members.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Happy New Year to our customers, volunteers and employees. A big thank you for using the Post Office, Shop and Community Centre during 2016.

The use of the Community Centre continues to increase. Make it the place in the centre of the village to catch up with friends. The monthly Hear to Help Service is increasingly used by local residents and this service is very much appreciated as it can save a visit to the RAH. We are also pleased to advise that more people are using The Citizens Advice Bureau who provide a fortnightly bookable service.

Our weekly Bridge Class is very popular on Friday afternoons. Surgeries are held by several of our elected representatives. Films, shown on a fortnightly basis, are well attended - please collect the new list of films for the first half of 2017.

This month we are pleased to host an art exhibition in aid of St Vincent’s Hospice.

Please come along to support this local charity.

The Shop - in addition to our present extensive selection of Greetings Cards and essential Stationery items we are hoping to introduce a new line in Cards, Accessories and possibly small Gifts towards the end of this month.

As we enter another year we must give a big ‘Thank You’ to our team of dedicated volunteers as without them The Bridge could not operate. Please make their day by popping in to view all The Bridge has to offer.

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

The Police reported on two fraudulent incidents in Bridge of Weir, one involved internet scammers based in South America the other was bogus workmen charging horrendous amounts of money for roof and wall repairs, in this matter arrests have been made and warrants issued for the other culprits.

A request was made from a resident drawing attention to an increase of speeding vehicles on Torr Road, this will be investigated by the Police.

The Police informed us that 79 incidents were made known to them in Bridge of Weir, many were unrelated to policing matters including a caller who reported a broken fridge door.

The Secretary had received a response from Fraser Carlin, Head of Planning and Housing Services regarding the development at Shillingworth, the Planners are unaware of any breach of the Planning Consent at this location.

The Christmas Lights Switch-on proved to be a very successful night and we were delighted to have our new features in place and thanks to everyone who supported the event. The Hamper, raffled on the night was won by Martin who was delighted with his prize which he collected on the evening.

The Funding Project Convener informed the meeting that the cost for the proposed Ladeside Walkway Project is exceedingly high. The Sub-Committee will investigate further to find out if funding sources are available to enable this project to proceed.

A reminder, the Community Council does not meet in January, however should anyone wish to raise a matter with us please do so by visiting www.bridgeofweir. org or our Facebook page.

The Community Council wishes everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

British Legion Scotland Bridge of Weir Branch Club This year’s Bridge of Weir British Legions Poppy Scotland appeal amounted to £3,589.66. £1,988.46 raised from Poppy Scotland collection tins and £1,601.20 from the sale of Poppy Scotland merchandise. Thanks to all who gave generously and supported the appeal.

Bring in the New Year at the Club on Saturday 31st December. Dance to the sounds of top Village Duo Lesley and Martin. Tickets cost £10, available from the bar ... Come along and party till 2017.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

The Bridge

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Last month I attended the Christmas lights switch ons at Port Glasgow, Greenock and Kilmacolm and was pleased to have the opportunity to say a few words at the Port and Kilmacolm lights. Unfortunately, due to a meeting I had I was unable to attend the lights switch on at Quarrier’s Village. The school choirs at the events all sang very well and it was great as always to see so many children and their families attend the lights switch ons.

kilmacolm & quarriers

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Old Kirk Dates for your diary Our Annual Burns Supper will be held on Friday 10th February. More details will be announced in due course.

Outlook Don’t forget our regular Outlook group which reaches out to the whole community in fellowship. The format is the same for most weeks – invited speakers offering topics of interest, community issues for discussion, shared activities, music films etc. Afternoon tea gives us all the chance to enjoy time with friends and to make new friends too. The team provide a wonderful variety of home baking. A voluntary donation is collected, to be sent to the OUTLOOK monthly nominated charity. The Spring programme is: Thursday 5th Jan – Welcome afternoon with a New Year speed friendship quiz, plus some familiar traditional songs with special guest Ted. Thursday 19th Jan – Crossreach charity, supported by the Church of Scotland, are invited to give us a better insight into the homes and services run for people in rehabilitation after drugs misuse, prison, homelessness and family abuse.

Thursday 2nd Feb – An afternoon of personal poetry with Marlene, plus music at the piano with highly talented David Leigh.

Thursday 16th Feb – Travels through Ethiopia, seen through the award winning camera of Janice Thursday 2nd Mar – Keep fit with David, plus popular songs at the piano.

Every afternoon: Community Issues, Dates for your Diary and Afternoon Tea.

Last month there was a public engagement meeting with council officers in Kilmacolm Primary School to discuss the new drainage system that will be used to improve the condition of the Birkmyre rugby pitches. Inverclyde Council will rightly be paying for most of this with St Columba’s School also kindly contributing £50,000 towards the cost. The work is long overdue to start. We have been discussing this issue for several years now in the council and it has appeared in several joint budgets including one the SNP put forward a few years ago. Here is to the work starting.

As we return to the council after the Christmas holidays the various council groups will be busy preparing for the budget next month. It is never an easy time and has been all the more difficult to deal with due to the UK government’s continuing austerity policies. As well as this we will need to see what effect Brexit will have on us all.

I hope everyone had a good Christmas and I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

My next surgeries in January will be advertised in the local newspaper, on the Inverclyde Council website and on my surgery posters. Anyone wanting to contact me in between surgeries can do so by phoning me through my office on 01475 712727 or my mobile number 07747 765 839 or by emailing me at jim.macleod@inverclyde.gov.uk or writing to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock, PA15 1LY. kilmacolm & quarriers

Angel Voices Choir

OUTLOOK is for the whole community; it’s an open invitation to everyone. Please come along and you can be sure of a warm welcome from the Old Kirk Community Issues Team. kilmacolm & quarriers

The British Betrayal of India Thursday 26th January, 7.30pm, Kilmacolm Library - FREE Join acclaimed author of military history, Walter Reid, for a glass of wine and lively debate on Britain’s role in India after WW2. In Keeping the Jewel in the Crown, he presents evidence to suggest that Britain held back India’s progress, leading to chaos in 1947 with repercussions still being felt today.

Email vfinnigan@st-Columbus.org to reserve your place. Creative Communities is a charitable outreach programme of St Columbus’s School, Kilmacolm. kilmacolm & quarriers

Peter’s Railway Picnic Saturday 28th January, 1pm - 3pm, Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Ages 4 - 9, FREE Join author Chris Vine in reliving the journey in one of his most loved stories, Peter’s Railway, The Picnic. You will get to build and operate your own model railway. A light snack will be provided.

To reserve a free place please email Victoria Finnigan: vfinnigan@stcolumbas.org. Creative Communities is a charitable outreach programme of St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm. kilmacolm & quarriers

Your Church Needs You! Please join with us on Sunday mornings at 11am in St Columba Church, Kilmacolm to give thanks to God for all his mercies.

The Church needs your support and a special warm welcome to young families and newcomers to our village.

We wish you all a very good New Year.

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The new Term starts on Friday 6th January in St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm. The choir is taught by Helen Knight RSMAD MA and accompanist Archie Morris who is studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Glasgow, We have started a little Angel Voices group 5 to 7 years rehearsals are 6pm – 6.30pm. The senior group of 8 to 11 years plus have rehearsals are 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

The Choir will be competing in the Inverclyde Music Festival in January.

The Choir’s repertoire includes a wide variety of music – carols, sacred, ballads, musicals and rounds.

We invite new girls and boys who love singing to come and try out the Choir for both age groups – Contact Maureen Russell (maureenmrussell@ hotmail.com) or phone 01505872905. photo: senior Angel Voices singing recently at the Bridge of Weir Choral Society Concert).

kilmacolm & quarriers

~ STOP PRESS ~

Keep the following dates free: Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th March Kilmacolm Old Kirk Festival of Sound.

Live Bands Friday pm and Saturday pm, Choral Festival Saturday, Old Kirk’s Got Talent competition, Children’s Singalong a Frozen and more.

Details to follow next month.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Changes at Ashes We are sad to lose Louise who has moved into a new field of work, and wish her all the best in her new venture. However, we now have ‘new’ Louise who has hit the floor running in the rush before Christmas. She has settled in well and is enjoying meeting our clients.

We also welcome Jennifer Scott Make up & Beauty who is offering 10% off to all new customers to the end of January 2017. Jennifer first studied Theatrical and Media Make up and Fashion Make up when she left school. She has since worked on various make up counters and has had fantastic experience on film, TV and theatrical productions. Her passion lies in making people feel and look amazing! To make your booking please call Ashes Hair on 01505 873800.

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I was alerted by ten users of the Café at Birkmyre Park that Inverclyde Leisure were intending to replace it with “spin bikes” and other exercise equipment. The café is well used and has a considerable and enthusiastic clientele. By the time this is published I will have met with the proprietor and the Chief Executive of IL and gently reminded him that the Birkmyre family donated the Park to the people of Kilmacolm and their opinions are important. The leisure aspect is popular but I am sure both it and the café can be accommodated.

There was a public meeting regarding the draining of the rugby pitches at the Park. The presentation was very professional and technical, concerns by residents, ecologists and the rugby club were all raised. Council officers have taken these on board. Thanks are due to the co-operation of Messrs Hardie and McCallum through whose land the drainage passes on its way to the Gryffe.

The self build site at Leperstone Avenue is not without its problems. When you build on rock, problems can arise, including noise for nearby residents. You have to live outside Inverclyde to take advantage of this project. I have publically been uncomfortable with this repopulation policy, and would have afforded first refusal to locals.

Gritting is always an issue at this time of year. There are 4 primary routes and 4 secondary routes that make up 160km some 49% of the network. The average for Scottish Local Authorities is also 49%. 6 tertiary routes make up a further 20%. Four snow routes are treated as priority during snow falls. Two of these are the A761 and B788 (High Road) which serve Kilmacolm.

The November Community Council meeting was interesting. Good news on environmental improvements in the village, an underwhelming brief by Virgin Media and a mixed message on the Community Council’s support for local businesses.

Surgery: Saturday 21st Jan, 10-11 at the Cargill. I can be contacted at david.wilson@ inverclyde.gov.uk and 01475 741969 , 712727 and 07766 992294. kilmacolm & quarriers

Val’s Parliamentary Reception Kilmacolm businesswoman, Val Lawrence was delighted to attend a parliamentary reception at the House of Commons in November.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Council Tax changes Councillor David Wilson reports: The Scottish Government is introducing a council tax surcharge of between 7.5% and 22.5% on houses in bands E to H. 83% of the latter in Inverclyde are in Kilmacolm and Quarriers villages. I met with residents at Elphinstone Court to discuss this and other matters.

The monies raised will go “directly” for Education in areas which feature in the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD). The recent poor performance by Scotland in Maths, English and Science in the International PISA charts come as little surprise to me. The much lauded Curriculum for Excellence, introduced in 2010 has not provided the expected boost in performance and has placed an extra bureaucratic load on our teachers. Also, the numbers of pupils achieving expected levels of literacy and numeracy at P4, P7 and S2 are also stubbornly failing to increase. The results for boys at S2 are particularly disappointing.

'Water' lot of digging Scottish Water is undertaking a major project which will provide clearer, fresher drinking water to about 11,000 customers in Port Glasgow and parts of Greenock and about 7,000 customers in the Kilmacolm and Lochwinnoch areas.

More than 18,000 customers in parts of Inverclyde and Renfrewshire will benefit from the £11.3 million investment by Scottish Water in its water infrastructure.

The project, which will be carried out for Scottish Water by its alliance partners Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA), will involve the installation of about seven miles of new water mains between Greenock WTW and customers in these areas.

The installation of the new mains will enable Scottish Water to change the customers’ source of supply to Greenock Water Treatment Works (WTW) from the Kaim WTW, which currently serves the Kilmacolm and Lochwinnoch areas, and the Dougliehill WTW, which serves Port Glasgow and small parts of Greenock.

The Kaim and Dougliehill WTWs, and customers in their supply zones, have experienced water quality issues in the past.

Scottish Water’s investment will enable the utility to decommission the two WTWs and provide water from Greenock WTW, which is currently operating below capacity.

image: Brian Stevenson

At the moment, Greenock WTW supplies about 70,000 customers in much of Inverclyde, including most of the population of Greenock and customers in Gourock, Wemyss Bay, Largs, Millport and Skelmorlie. However, the WTW is running well below its capacity and is able to supply customers currently in the Kaim and Dougliehill WTW supply zones.

CWA will install about 3.5 miles of new water main from the Whinhill Service Reservoir in Greenock to Dougliehill Service Reservoir. A new pumping station will be constructed at Whinhill Service Reservoir to pump water from there to Dougliehill Service Reservoir. Scottish Water will also install another 3.5 miles of water mains from Dougliehill reservoir to Kilmacolm, which will tie in to the existing water mains in the village.

In addition, the contractors will carry out work to reverse water flows from Dougliehill service reservoir back through Kilmacolm into Lochwinnoch, to be supplied with water from Greenock WTW. The work will also include the construction of a booster pumping station at Burnbrae near Quarrier’s Village.

kilmacolm & quarriers

In her role as a Stella & Dot Director, her presence truly illustrated how fibre broadband can transform and benefit SMEs and really impressed the MP’s who attended. Val told the Advertizer, “It was a great day. Sadly, I didn't get to see Theresa May but I did meet the Chairman of BT and a few other shoppers.”

Val is pictured here with MP Ronnie Cowan.

kilmacolm & quarriers

We must see an improvement from the use of extra taxation for the sake of our youngsters who are increasingly leaving to enter into a competitive world market. kilmacolm & quarriers

Polite Parking Request Residents at the top end of Finlaystone Road are currently experiencing an excess of vehicles, noise and disruption during the excavation and building works for the self build site at Leperstone Avenue.

What was a small car park for residents has now been opened up to provide access to the site. This means there is even more pressure on the parking spaces on Finlaystone Road.

Residents are aware that a number of dog walkers like to access the fields above the houses through Leperstone Avenue, but are asking that during these works, parking could be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether. Thank you.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston (Houston Old School Trust) Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438 MONDAY Sowing Group (16th, 23rd, 30th) 10am - 12 noon Yoga (Weekly from 9th) 1pm - Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 Diaporama 9th 7.30pm Young Farmers (9th, 16th, 23rd) 7.30pm TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (Weekly from 10th) 10am - Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 Musical Theatre (Weekly from 10th) 3.30pm - 5pm Yoga (Weekly from 10th) 7pm - M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Agric. Discussion Soc. 17th 7.30pm Cake Decoration 10th & 24th 7pm Sandra Benwick 07730404742 WEDNESDAY Councillors Surgeries 18th 6.30pm Gryffe Melody Makers 4th & 18th 7pm Camera Club (Weekly) 7.30pm Community Council 18th 7.30pm

THURSDAY Gryffe Quilting Group (12th, 19th, 26th) 1.15 - 3.15pm Primary Colours (Weekly from 12th) 3.30pm - Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 Crafty Friends 5th, 19th - 7.30pm Folk Club (weekly) 8pm iaintdawson@ gmail.com 07786 078952 BurleX Fitness (Weekly) 9.15 10.15am. Kelly, 07944 815298 FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) 10.30am M/s Lawson 01505 613690 Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) 3.30 5.30pm MP Surgery 13th - 12.30 – 1.30pm SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) - 9.30am 12noon SUNDAY Baptist Church (Weekly) 11am & 6pm

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

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston Christmas Lights Switch On Hundreds of Renfrewshire villagers turned out in force for the Houston Christmas Lights Switch on.

This community event was packed with locals, including Rangers footballing legend Ally McCoist and his family.

Houston Main Street got an early Christmas present as some extra special new lights were unveiled.

The winners from the Houston and St Fillan’s Primary Schools ‘Design a Christmas Light’ competition got to see their designs illuminated for the very first time. Samantha Parker (9 yrs) from St Fillan’s Primary and 11 year old Abi Furniss, had the honour of pushing the big button to light up their designs plus the whole of Houston Main Street.

Local restaurant and sponsors The Fox & Hounds invited Santa himself along to join in the fun and give the girls their prizes. They also had an outdoor food stall dishing out free soup and hot chocolate to get the party started.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

As we are now in a new year there will be new opportunities and new challenges, as there always are. One local anniversary which I have noticed is that 2017 will see the fortieth anniversary of the opening of the present Houston Primary School. I would like especially to thank the teachers, the pupils, and the Parent Council, for making Houston Primary the excellent school it is. Education is vitally important for everyone and I am totally behind the Scottish Government’s attainment challenge to drive forward standards in all our schools.

Another very important anniversary for Houston, Crosslee, and Brookfield this year, is that my colleague and mentor, Cllr Allan Noon, is standing down as a local Elected Member after seventeen dedicated years of service to his constituents. I am sure I will be joined by many constituents in wishing Allan a very happy political retirement. His quiet and sincere manner, in both board meetings and in the council chamber, will be a loss to Renfrewshire Council. I will always be grateful to Allan for his advice and guidance to me when I was first elected, and he will be remembered for his prudent management of the civic finances when he was Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Finance Committee between 2007/2012. I wish Allan many happy years on the golf course in the future.

My advice surgery in Linwood is on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month, at 6pm, in Linwood High School. But I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07768 130935, or e-mail me at cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield Country Dancing club Thursday evenings from 7.30pm 9.30pm run

by Aileen Craig (01505-322684).

New members are most welcome and as an introduction, the first class is free.

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One Houston resident Lynda Blackburn commented, “This was a fab event.

Real community spirit. Couldn’t believe the turnout!” This fantastic event was organised by Houston Community Council and was such an outstanding success, it is expected to become even bigger and better next year. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston Church of the Nazarene

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Crafty Friends We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursdays in the month at 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre, Houston. No previous craft experience necessary. We're just a group of ladies who enjoy making things! Telephone - Lorna Cairns 612844 or Shirley White 610721

Table Tennis at the Village Hall MONDAYS FROM 7.30 - 9.30pm Donation £2, contact Mark Canning on 07968 052538 for more information NAZCHAT @ THE VILLAGE HALL - Is a space that people can enjoy coffee/ tea & conversation. Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month from 10.30am - 12 noon. Conversation is centred around life subjects and various topics are selected. Free. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Crosslee SWI

Our first meeting in 2017 will be on Wednesday 11th January when we welcome Christine Anderson, Janet Reid, Margaret Scott and Moira Dunlop for “An Evening with Friends”. Please remember to bring your “Pennies for Friendship”. In February we will enjoy a meal at the River Inn. 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 MacKay on 07932 459994.

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

Carrick Nights - Winter Concert Series Promoted by HOUSTON OLD SCHOOL TRUST All concerts will be held in the Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston commencing at 8pm.

After a successful opening concert in November the remaining concerts in the series are :houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston and Killellan Kirk The Guild resumes on Tuesday 10th January 2017 with “A New Year’s Evening”.

This is followed by “A Musical Quiz” by Alyson Rayworth on Tuesday 17th January.

Richard Woods from Mission International will talk to us about “Haiti”, one of our Guild projects for this session, on Tuesday 31st January.

Our meetings are held in the West Hall, Main St, on alternate Tuesdays at 7.30pm.

Why don’t you come along? You will be assured of a warm welcome.

11th January

The Cameo Club - Out and About with the Walking Group - Eddie and Fergus

25th January

A Tribute to Rabbie - The Elderberries and H&K Kirk Scottish Country Dancers

Church Officer/Hall Keeper (Part Time) - £8.25/hour The Kirk Session of Houston and Killellan Kirk is currently recruiting for a Church Officer / Hall Keeper. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is organised, has good attention to detail and is a good communicator as you will be liaising with external organisations on behalf of the Church.

Candidates should be flexible to work Monday to Friday but also the occasional Saturday. 10/12 hours per week as standard (Saturday working not included).

Rate of pay is £8.25 per hour, paid monthly. Additional payments may be applicable for certain tasks.

You may be working with vulnerable people and as a result the post is subject to the PVG scheme regulations, administered by the Kirk’s Safeguarding Coordinator. The Church of Scotland standard Contract of Employment will be applied to this appointment. If you would like further information or are interested in applying for the above position, please contact Ina Jefferson 01505 612962 or w.jefferson@btinternet.com

Busy Month in Brookfield December was a busy month in Brookfield. On Saturday, 3rd over 100 villagers set off from the village hall for a candlelit procession to the Millennium Gardens where carols were sung to the accompaniment of the village brass band. The Christmas tree, which had been kindly donated by Gowanlea, was then lit up before people returned to the hall for refreshments and a viewing of the Snowman.

The following Saturday, the childrens Christmas party took place. A visit from Santa with a present was, of course, the highlight of the day, but the Song and Dance Factory led by Candy had the children enthralled with dancing, singing and her magic colouring book.

On Sunday, 18th December, villagers congregated in the hall for the Carol service led by Reverend Smith. A childrens choir enchanted us with a collection of Christmas songs and the brass band led the congregation’s carol singing. Afterwards, we were treated to mulled wine and mince pies.

Saturday 25th March - PAUL LIVINGSTON (violin/viola) & IAN WATT (guitar).

A well respected duo, they perform a wide ranging repertoire from Baroque to Modern, German to Argentinean including works by Bach, Corelli, Schubert, Paganini and Piazzola.

Friday 28th April - BAROCHAN QUARTET + PAULA BARRON A welcome return after performing at our pilot concert in March 2016. [BQ] A string quartet of local talent, all professional musicians and members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. [PB] A semi-professional mezzo soprano who hails from Paisley and her accompanist Jim Drennan with a programme of light classical repertoire/songs from the shows.

Ticket prices:

Adults - £12

Children/Students - £5

Have a meal in our Café at 6pm prior to the concert. Early booking a must as space is limited.

(2 courses £15 - BYOB ) Call 01505 229597 or e mail thecarrickcentre@gmail.com for further information.

We are grateful to Enterprise Music Scotland, through funding provided by Creative Scotland, for their award of a grant to help make these Concerts a reality. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Congratulations must go to Houston Community Council and all who were involved in the successful Houston Christmas Lights switch on and the amazing Fireworks’ display. Well done to the two Primary Schools for their contribution and in particular the two winners of the lighting design competition.

Both winning designs are prominently displayed in the village.

There was a good turnout in Brookfield for the Christmas tree lights switch-on in the Millennium garden and this was followed by a film show in the Village Hall.

There was a collection for the Renfrewshire Foodbank taken up by a number of volunteers in the village Co-op. Thanks to the generosity of those who contributed a tremendous sum was raised for this cause.

I have spoken to many people who agree with me that the dedicated group of volunteers have done a tremendous amount of work as they continually remove litter from all parts of the village as well as improving overgrown areas around the village. They deserve our thanks and appreciation for their efforts.

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

Please note that there will be no surgeries in Houston and Brookfield in January 2017 and my next surgeries will be on 14th February 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.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Saturday 25th February - OPERA ALBA Formed in 2004, with a view to presenting an entertaining programme of Opera by experienced professional singers. Current members are soprano Daisy Henderson, mezzo Julie Martin-Carter, tenor Adam Magee, baritone Steven Faughey and accompanied by Derek Clark. They have performed at a variety of venues throughout Scotland presenting an extensive repertoire from the fields of opera, operetta, Gilbert and Sullivan, songs from the shows and well loved songs from around the World.

Perhaps the highlight of December in Brookfield is the post Christmas cheese and wine afternoon on 27th December. It is always a hugely popular event and offers an excellent opportunity for a catch up with friends, families and neighbours and this year was no exception.

Then bringing the year to a close, a great night was had by all dancing to the band ‘Dizzy Heights’ at the Hogmanay Dance.

Happy New Year everyone and don’t forget to put Saturday, 25th February in your diaries and join us for a Swishing Event & Ladies Night. This is a great opportunity to share and swap good quality clothes, shoes, jewellery, bags and scarves that maybe no longer fit or suit you for something else that does. Email Brookfieldvpa@gmail.com to book your ticket.

Catch up with Brookfield news on our Facebook page, Brookfield Village and follow us on Twitter @brookfieldvpa.

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Kilbarchan Parish Church Rainbow Turtle A recent Rainbow Turtle stall at Kilbarchan Parish Church sold over £200 worth of goods.

In addition generous buyers bought several hundred pounds worth of goods from the Traidcraft catalogue. The producers are guaranteed a fair price for their work, which enables them to educate their children and improve their lives. Liz Cotton’s team at Rainbow Turtle provided the logistic back up for the event. kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Lochwinnoch Xmas Light Switch On Lochwinnoch Xmas Lights Society would like to say a great big thank you to everyone for the tremendous help from the very start of our fundraising to the fantastic turnout at the Switch-On on Saturday, 3rd December. Being our first year, we had no concept of how things would be on the night but Lochwinnoch did itself proud at the switch-on and we couldn’t have hoped for better. Special thanks to Carmen Pieraccini for switching the lights on.

The night would not have been possible without the help we’ve received through the bucket and can donations and other contributions we want to mention. The New Year’s Day Dance Group gave us our starting balance last January. Then we had contributions from Lochwinnoch Community Council and Renfrewshire Council. Royal Bank of Scotland and the new bridge construction company, Coffey, also gave us excellent support towards the lights.

We also want to mention the very generous donations we received from Gordon McCleary and former Junction owners Val and Angie amongst several others.

So our project was supported both nationally and internationally. The support has been fantastic. So to mention just a few, The Choir, Pulse Dance Academy, The Small Fezzes and the Gamble Boys, who all excelled and gave their time generously to entertain us. Thanks to the Brown Bull for providing and serving the mulled wine and to Calder Gallery for donating a Christine Brown framed print for the Raffle (won by Cllr. Chris Gilmour).

Special thanks to Lesley Adam Photography for capturing the magic on the night).

There are so many people who worked hard behind the scenes and we thank you all. You know who you are!! And finally, the biggest thank you of all is to those of you who came along and took part. A final big thank you has to be given to our two hall keepers. Margaret and Laura as they dealt with all our arrangements on the night when they are already under considerable pressure having five classes relocated from the Primary School.

Although things went so well on the night we had some VERY scary moments going on behind the scenes on the afternoon of the Switch-on. At 1.30pm, we received a call from John Flood from Lighting at Renfrewshire Council, to tell us that the lamp-posts we have our lights fitted to, had no power and it was out of their hands as the fault was with work being done by Scottish Power at Johnshill.

That afternoon, we pulled out all the stops. With help from Councillor Chris Gilmour, John Flood and three amazing teams from Scottish Power who, when they heard what happened, came from different locations to work flat out to get our Switch-on to work on time. This help and support was fantastic and we are very grateful for this as otherwise, all our work would have been in vain, so huge thanks to all these people.

We are delighted with the way it’s all come together and we hope to increase the Christmas Lights in the village in the next few years. We’re going to continue with our donation cans in local business premises throughout the year as the more donations we can collect, the better a display we can have.

Lochwinnoch has shown us great support and we hope you all enjoyed yourselves.

We are looking forward to seeing you all again on Saturday 2nd December 2017.

Thanks again to all and we hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Christine, Jane and Jim

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

At the turn of the year it is customary to look back on the year just ended, and forward to the one ahead. Christmas and the New Year provide a time of reflection and also hope.

In recent years we have been reflecting on tumultuous times.

During 2016 we have seen the decision of the UK to vote to leave the EU, and the result of the US presidential election.

Both are major events which have created uncertainty for both present and future generations.

Despite this, it is those issues of living standards, employment, the environment, health, housing and education which shape and forge peoples lives and experiences. As a ward councillor, I have worked hard day in and day out, to improve the lives of the people of Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch. Much has been achieved but much remains to be done.

This past year has seen the completion of resurfacing on the main road through Kilbarchan, announced investment for improvements in Kilbarchan Park, the replacement bridge in Lochwinnoch, and the resurfacing and flood prevention undertaken on the access road to Lochwinnoch railway station. We have also seen a number of planning applications which pose a threat to the green belt, most notably at Branscroft Kilbarchan, which I opposed, and which thankfully was rejected by Renfrewshire Council. I sincerely hope that the Scottish Government do likewise with the current appeal.

This coming year will see similar challenges, whether these be the cleanliness of the environment, community and public safety, and traffic and transport issues.

Village lives are also influenced by the annual community events, which give us our cultural identity and provide a sense of well being, togetherness and security.

I am therefore pleased that during the year, I have supported grant funding for a number of local events and organisations including Kilbarchan Agricultural Show, Kilbarchan Singers and the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival.

None of this is possible without teamwork, and I am indebted to those individuals and groups in the community who give their time so generously and make any progress possible. It is the relationships and contact with those groups and individuals, that has made the last 4 and a half years so worthwhile, and it has been an honour for me to represent the people of Johnstone North, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch.

I hope to continue this work , and I am proud that along with my colleague Chris Gilmour, I have been selected to run as a candidate in the forthcoming council elections in May. My aim for 2017 is to do my best for local folk in whatever way I can. I wish you well in achieving your hopes and aspirations in the coming year.

My next surgeries will be on Saturday 4th February at 9am in the McKillop Institute and 10am in the Steeple Hall. Meantime, if you need help with any problem or issue please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534156007. kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Speeding vehicles through Kilbarchan have become a significant part of my civic postbag of late, and I have supported Kilbarchan Community Council, who at their last meeting had the Head of Roads for Renfrewshire Council in attendance, and they intend to bring forward a draft traffic management plan to the Community Council early in the new year. This is welcome indeed.

At the end of the last year I was proud to attend a fundraising event at Viewfield Park in Lochwinnoch, a sponsored Firewalk, to raise funds for Soldiers Off the Streets, which is a very important charity which helps homeless veterans, many of whom have post- traumatic stress disorder. Donna Armstrong and her family must be congratulated for organising this event which will support veterans who are injured in both body and mind.

At the last Leadership Board of Renfrewshire Council I was delighted to welcome the fact that the Council’s Tackling Poverty Commission is to allocate £17,000 to Johnstone Credit Union for an Outreach Officer who can try and provide a Credit Union presence in both Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch. This is a very positive move as neither of our villages now have high street banks in them now.

I was much less happy at the same Leadership Board meeting when administration Councillors voted down a motion I seconded calling on the Glasgow Region City Deal Cabinet to seek a last- minute City Deal project to upgrade the A737. Our villages are being left behind and out of the loop.

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.

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Kilbarchan Parish Church Messy Church

Do you want the skills to help save a life?

Our theme for the day will be ‘Noah’s Ark.’

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Kilbarchan Parish Church Kilbarchan Parish Church in January. Services continue at 11am each Sunday throughout January, conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith. The Sacrament of Communion will be celebrated informally at the end of the service on 8th January.

Sunday School and the crèche meet in the large hall from 10.45am each week and refreshments will be served after the service as usual. Sunday School will recommence on 8th.

We have the dates for the next two FREE two hour courses in 2017.

Tuesday 17th January Railway Inn Howwood 7-9pm Wednesday 15th February Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch 7-9pm If you are interested in attending contact Morag on morag.Thow@gcu.ac.uk or 01505 843183. The course is practical and deals with: • An unconscious casualty

• Cardiac arrest

• How to use a AED

• Suspected heart attack

• Choking

• Serious bleeding

Morag and Liz kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

All welcome to any or all of these services.

Lochwinnoch SWI

Kilbarchan Parish Church Midweek Fellowship continues from 10.30am for coffee, followed by a short service of worship, on Wednesdays in the small hall.

This will begin on Wednesday 10th.

Welcome to 2017! We hope every one has had a good festive season.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club - The club takes place on Monday mornings from 9.15 - 11.30am in the hall, when there is a large variety of toys and a bouncy castle for the tots - from birth - 3 years - and coffee and friendly chat for the accompanying adults, cost £1 for each adult. The club resumes on Monday 9th January.

The next meeting of Lochwinnoch SWI is on Wednesday 18th January at 7.30pm, hopefully in the McKillop Hall. If there is any change to that members will be informed.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Drama Group’s production of “The Even Greater Escape” was enjoyed by large audiences each evening.

This month we are delving into local history when Lochwinnoch’s own Elizabeth West will tell us all about “McDowall’s Contribution to Lochwinnoch”. This should be of interest to people both born and bred in the village and to those new to the village.

We look forward to welcoming members and friends. For further information contact Elma Richmond at 843193 or richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

The Lochwinnoch Arts Festival Art Exhibition Submissions are invited from artists in the surrounding areas for the arts Festival Art Exhibition 2017.

Full details are available from lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Kilbarchan During the month of January, the group will plan the syllabus till June, enjoy favourite music, and on Burns’ night, have readings of poetry and songs composed by Rabbie Burns. If you are interested in finding out more, please phone 703786 or see the website: www.nwr.org.uk.

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Kilbarchan Parish Church Burns’ Supper takes place on Saturday 28th January at 6.30pm in the hall. The tickets are £20, including a 3-course meal - catering

by UWS and entertainment. To buy a ticket, telephone 703786.

39

Lochwinnoch & Howwood BHF Heart Start

Our next Messy Church takes place on Saturday 21st January from 4pm – 6pm in the church halls.

All children, accompanied by an adult, are most welcome to join us for crafts, stories and song. We end by sitting down to eat together and enjoying the fellowship of other families.

january 2017

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kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

Pre Festival Events 2017 Sunday 5th February

Mapping Lochwinnoch Vanessa Collingridge and John Moore - 1pm to 3pm. Castle Semple Visitors Centre.

Free

Sunday 19th February

Crafts From the Past - 1pm to 3pm.

McKillop Hall. Free

Wednesday 1st till Friday 10th March Wille Owens and Corseford School Art Exhibition. Library hours. Free

Sunday 5th March

Betty McKellar Family Poetry Workshop Spirit of Lochwinnoch - 1pm to 3pm.

Lochbarr Leisure Centre. Free

Festival Starts Wednesday 15th till 25th March Library hours Arts Festival Art Exhibition Official Opening by Rev. Archie Ford - 7pm.

Library (invite only)

Thursday 16th March

Tannahill International Poetry Competition and music by Witches Brew - 7.30pm. McKillop Hall. £5.50/£3

Friday 17th March

Rose Room and Factory Street Quartet (Jazz) - 7.30pm. McKillop Hall. £10/£8 Bar Calder Church - Performance of ‘Pilgrims Progress’ - 7.30pm. Calder Church Donation to charity Clamjamfrie in Brown Bull - 9pm..Free

Saturday 18th March

Author Event with Sir Kenneth Calman Chaired by Prof. Rowena Murray 10.30am. McKillop Hall. £5.50/£3 Craft Fair. McKillop Hall - 1pm to 4pm.

Free entry. Free teas and coffees Come and Try Trace mono printing 1pm to 3pm. McKillop Hall. £3 Come and Try Crafts - 1pm to 3pm.

McKillop Hall. £3 Susie Lamonts Pupil Concert - 4pm to 6pm. Parish Church Donation to charity Karine Polwart and Fara. McKillop Hall - 7.30pm. £10 Sean Middleton Hosts Fiddle and Accordion session - 8pm. Corner Bar. Free

Sunday 19th March

Come and Try The Great Lochwinnoch Pottery Throwdown - 10am to 4pm.

McKillop Hall. £3 Singing Workshop Karine Polwart 10.30am to 11.30am. McKillop Hall. £5 Come and Try Felting - 10am to 12noon.

McKillop Hall. £3 Fiddle Workshop Alastair McCulloch 12noon to 2pm. McKillop Hall. £5 Accordion Workshop Iain Muir - 12noon to 2pm. McKillop Hall. £5 Classical Celtic - 7.30pm Parish Church. £5.50/£3 Billy Hamson Bluegrass Session - 8pm.

Corner Bar. Free

Monday 20th March

Author Event Lochwinnoch writers and Louise Turner Chaired by Prof Rowena Murray - 7.30pm.

McKillop Hall. £5.50/ £3

Saturday 11th March

A Buddy A Good Laugh Comedy Night 7.30pm. McKillop Hall (a collaboration with Paisley Arts Centre). £10/£8 Bar

Sunday 12th March

Come and Try Lindyhopping - 10am to 12noon. Lochbarr Leisure Centre. £3 Come and Try Dancing with the family JOYMOVE - 1pm to 1.40pm. Lochbarr Leisure Centre. £3 (per person) Come and Try Drawing - 2pm to 4pm.

Parish Church. £3 Come and Try Poetry - 2pm to 4pm.

Parish Church. £3

Tuesday 21nd March

Drop in Tea Bar Witches’ Brew. All welcome. McKillop Hall - 11am. Free Glasgow Theatre Guild - 7.30pm Parish Church. £5.50/£3

Wednesday 22rd March

Songs and Music from Scottish Islands Alastair McCulloch, Fara and Witches Brew - 7.30pm.

Parish Church. £5.50/£3

Thursday 23th March

Calder Drama Society Production 7.30pm. McKillop Hall. £6/£4 Jamming at The Junction Claude Bourbon - 7.30pm. £20.95 2 courses, £24.95 3 courses, BYOB

Friday 24th March

Calder Drama Society Production 7.30pm. McKillop Hall. £6/£4 “Rewired”: Visual Artist Dominic Snyder and Contact Improviser Nina Ravnholdt Enemark - 7.30pm. Masonic Hall. £5.50/£3 Willie Gamble and Friends - Three Churches Inn - 9pm. Free

Saturday 25th March

Author Event with Tony Roper Chaired

by Prof. Rowena Murray - 10.30am.

McKillop Hall. £5.50/£3 Krafty Kids - 1pm to 4pm. McKillop Hall. £2 LEAP - McKillop Hall - 1pm to 4pm Craft Fair McKillop Hall - 1pm to 4pm.

Free entry and teas and coffees The Caledonian Strathspey and Reel Orchestra and Govan Gaelic Choir 7.30pm. McKillop Hall. £5.50/£3

Sunday 26th March

Come and Try Penny Whistle - 10am to 12noon. McKillop Hall. £3 Mixed Instrument Workshop Nigel Gatherer - 1pm to 3pm. McKillop Hall. £5 Bodran Workshop Chris Wait - 1 pm to 3pm. McKillop Hall. £5 Festival Finale Concert Betty McKellar Family Poetry competition results and Lochwinnoch Choral Society, Fran Shoppler, ‘Folk it’, and ‘Heritage Soundz’ - 7.30pm. Parish Church. £6/£4

29th March till 22nd April

Photography Exhibition. Library hours.

Free

Wed 29th March

Official opening Library - 7pm (invite only)

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LOCAL

history

Black Cart Mills 5: Johnstone’s Water-powered Cotton Mills On the Black Cart, just below Milliken and Cochrane Mills is a low dam. From this dam a wide lade continues, under a purpose built arch in the bridge over the Cart, to Cartside Cotton Mill (now a paper mill). The mill was built in 1792 by the owners of Calderpark Cotton Mill at Lochwinnoch. Cartside was one of six Johnstone mills built between 1782 and 1796. Their owners are well known, and our interest here is in how the mills were powered.

From Cartside Mill, the lade continues downstream for more than 2.5km, partly in a brick-arched tunnel, to drive three other big cotton mills: Hag (1794), Johnstone Old (1782) and Johnstone Laigh (1783). Two small mills, Milliken waulk mill and a lint mill were both still operating in the 1790s. They stood on the opposite side of the river from Hag Mill, which was demolished in the 1920s. Further downstream, Johnstone Old Cotton Mill was built beside the old Johnstone grain mill, at Johnstone Bridge. The Old Cotton Mill was the oldest surviving cotton mill in Scotland, until it was destroyed by fire in 2010.

The remains of Johnstone Old Mill, 2010 From the Johnstone Old Cotton Mill the lade continued through a special arch under Johnstone Bridge, then through the town’s old bleaching green to Johnstone’s fourth big cotton mill, the Laigh Cotton Mill. Below Laigh Mill the tailrace continued downstream for 500 metres to a point not far above the dam for Linwood Cotton Mills.

Slightly further downstream, the Peockland Burn enters the Black Cart below Linwood Dam. This burn is the confluence of the Craigbog and Floors burns. Despite its modest size, at one time the burn powered a number of mills, and also drained the Quarrelton Coal Mines via a water powered engine. Two smaller water powered cotton mills, Bank Top (1792) and Montgomeries Mill (1796), were built on the burn. However, when a planned expansion of their reservoirs threatened to flood the town, these mills were soon converted to steam power.

Johnstone had numerous other textile factories, though none were water powered.

However, according to the late Sylvia Clark, Johnstone had a seventh water powered cotton mill, the Adelphi Mill in Graham Street, fed from the Peockland Burn. When the Catholic Church was being built, an underground lade and a wheelpit were discovered on the site.

© 2016, Stuart Nisbet, Renfrewshire Local History Forum

Kilbarchan January 1917 Private Andrew Deans served with the 11th Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, part of the 15th (Scottish) Division. The 15th Division was mainly composed of volunteers who had answered Kitchener’s call for men. His address on the village roll of honour was 22 New Street: the 1911 census tells that he lived at that address with his father Robert, an engineer fitter, his mother Marjorie, William McConnell (a boarder) and engineer fitter, his brother Andrew (17) a moulder in an iron foundry, and his sisters Jeannie (19), who was a laundry maid and Janet (11) who was at school. Andrew was 14 and was an apprentice moulder in an iron foundry.

On 17th February 1917 the Kilbarchan news stated: ‘We also regret to record the death of Private Andrew Deans, A&SH, younger son of Mr. Robert Deans, late of New Street. Being connected with the Colours he was called up at the outbreak of hostilities, and had gone through a lot of hard fighting (he served in both the 1st and 2nd Argyll’s before being posted to the 11th Argyll’s). His sister, Mrs. Craig, received a letter from the Second Lieutenant of the Company. He says that her brother was killed instantly by shell-fire on the 29th ult. while on sentry duty. The writer says that Private Deans had made himself a favourite with all ranks, and that he died as he lived, a good, brave soldier. He was 21 years of age and was employed as a moulder with Messrs. John Land and Sons, Johnstone.

He is buried at Warlencourt British Cemetery: the Commonwealth War Graves Commission shows his date of death as 30th January 1917.

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people

Supreme Sacrifice Bridge of Weir and the Great War 100 years ago this month – January 1917 Private Henry Andrew, Army Service Corps Gunner Andrew Jackson, Machine Gun Corps (Motor) There were fewer bullets flying in the winter months as the warring armies hunkered down and Generals made plans for Spring offensives, but January 1917 brought a side-effect of war into sharp relief for the village – disease. In some theatres of war, death was less likely from a sniper’s bullet than from malaria, cholera, dysentery or tropical fever.

Private Henry Andrew, Army Service Corps

Henry Andrew was the eldest son of jobbing gardener Henry Andrew and his wife Janet Boyd, both from Dundonald, Ayrshire. The Ranfurly villas with their large gardens attracted Henry to Bridge of Weir and the family settled in Claremont Place, behind what is now the Lochnagar. Young Henry later became an ironmonger in Falkirk, and joined the Royal Field Artillery and later the Army Service Corps, which transported food, equipment and ammunition, an essential part of army logistics. He was sent to Egypt then Salonika but contracted such a severe case of fever that he had to be transported home via Malta and Liverpool.

He survived that gruelling journey, but died of complications in Paisley RAH on 4th January.

Andrew Jackson was the second son of William Cowan Jackson, a Glasgow sugar merchant, and Jean Bain. The family moved to Bridge of Weir before 1901 and by 1911 were in Woodholm, a villa in Prieston Road. Andrew was a Paisley Grammar and Glasgow Academy boy, and became a stockbroker’s clerk. He was 20 when the war started and he volunteered for the Motor Machine Gun Corps, where motorcycle sidecar combinations were fitted with Vickers machine guns. Recruits to the MMGS had often been members of motor cycle clubs before the war and it must have been an enticing swashbuckling prospect for young motor-cyclists. It was the mechanized version of the cavalry, an early sign of an army in transition.

By the end of the war, the British Army would be unrecognisable from the BEF in 1914.

But Andrew would never demonstrate his skills in conflict. He suffered from tuberculosis, possibly concealed from his medical officer when he was recruited, and he died on 27 January in the Nordach-on-Dee sanatorium near Banchory.

Both Henry and Andrew are buried in Kilbarchan cemetery, both are recorded on the Ranfurly United Free Church memorial, and in another tragic parallel, both their families were destined to lose another son before the war ended.

Read more about Henry and Andrew’s life and untimely death at http://www.bridgeofweirmemorial.co.uk and in the book “Supreme Sacrifice: A Small Village and the Great War” published by Birlinn available from themastertons@btinternet.com for £9.99 delivered free within five miles of Bridge of Weir.

howwood & elderslie

Howwood SWI Tuesday 17th January - Island Hopping in the Indian Ocean by Vivienne MacDonald. Competition - Fridge Magnet. Hostesses - Gail Gilchrist & Margaret Jamieson. Vote of thanks - Nan Robertson.

Meetings in Howwood Village Hall at 7.30pm. A warm welcome to all. Contact Irene on 01505 704800 for further details. howwood & elderslie

What’s Happening in Howwood Woodlands & Wildlife: We are in desperate need of help in the form of assistance to clear the Rhombus Garden of weeds (the garden just opposite The Boarding House). If you have any spare time at all and would be willing to help with the clearance and development of this area, we would be most grateful. Please contact Bill David on 07802 57590 or email at bill@billdavid.co.uk or contact any member of HWW who will be able to give you more information – thank you!

howwood & elderslie

Salonika (now Thessaloniki in northern Greece) was the Allied base for supporting the Serbs against the Bulgarians. Around 10,000 Scots infantry and many medical and support staff were based there – so many that RAMC Sergeant Christopher Murray Grieve (the poet Hugh McDiarmid) nicknamed it “Thistleonica”. But it was an inhospitable place, and the 18,000 battle casualties in two years were dwarfed by the 481,000 cases of illness.

Parish Church Guild: The Guild meets in the church hall every second Monday at 7.30 pm. The meetings are open to all and anyone can come along, on any evening and be assured of a warm welcome. The next meeting will be held on Monday 9th January 2017 and this will be a talk on Old Johnstone by Ian Murray. We look forward to seeing you there.

Womens Institute: Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month from September to April.

A warm welcome awaits all our members, especially new ones. There will be a Sales Table each month except November, December and April, proceeds will be donated to St. Vincent Hospice and members are reminded to please bring their own cup for tea. For more information please contact Mrs Irene MacTaggart on 01505 704800.

Community Council: Meetings of the Community Council are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm in Howwood Village Hall. Please feel free to come along - all welcome.

Gordon Masterton

Johnstone History Society Our first meeting of 2017 is on January 10th in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30pm .Our speaker for January is Sheina Ross “Six Cord Thread” Sheina is a very good speaker so it should prove to be an interesting evening .We have had a number of new members in the last few months and they are all very welcome as are any visitors .Our December meeting was well attended and Ian Johnston a well known author and historian gave us a very interesting talk .As it was our Christmas meeting we had mince pies and shortbread with our tea or coffee .

The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm however it will close on 23rd December till Friday 6th January 2017.We still have a number of Johnstone Calendars for sale at £7 each .On sale we have a number of local books maps and publications These may also be purchased online at johnstonehistory.org.

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Ducks gone!

A callous thief has stolen two pet ducks in Elderslie. Their devastated owner Sarah told The Advertizer, “I am totally gutted and worried for my little Mabel & Franklin. I have already contacted police and they have been really helpful.

My garden and their little pen is fully secure and no sign of another animal attack.”

If anyone has information on Franklin and Mabel’s whereabouts, contact Sarah on Facebook via www.facebook. com/sarah.j.strong

Guide Dogs For The Blind West Renfrewshire local Support Group is looking for big hearted souls in the area to help us with our collections.

By giving one hour of your time you will be making a real difference by helping Guide dogs enable blind and partially sighted people to enjoy the same freedom of movement as everyone else.

Please contact Anne Ferguson 07779 976047 or 01505 705602.

Pet Blog

by PetVets

Smelly Pets As pet owners we all accept a little bit of a pong from our furry friends at times, but an increase or change in your pet’s smell can be a sign of a problem. If you notice a particularly pungent or persistent odour form your pet there are a few key areas to check.

Mouth Bad breath is most commonly due to dental disease. Regular brushing is the best way to care for your pet’s teeth.

There are also products available to add to food or water, dental chews and enzymatic dental gels to reduce plaque and tartar. If your pet has developed a significant amount of tartar and/or dental disease they will benefit from a visit to the vet for treatment and a dental procedure. If you notice a significant increase in halitosis it’s best to have a vet check as some causes of bad breath can be more serious.

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Injured Cat This little tortie girl was found badly injured in Bridge of Weir, Renfrewshire. She has been living as a stray for several months behind Bernie’s cafe, and was being fed by locals. We have tried several times to locate her owner without success, and sadly she is not microchipped.

Among other injuries, she has a fractured jaw which will need to be wired.

She also has a serious infection which will need to be brought under control before she can undergo the operation.

This is another attempt to see if anyone recognises her as belonging to someone.

We have nicknamed her Beth.

Johnstone Cat Rescue have setup a “crowdfunding” online appeal for donations at https://www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/Help4Beth.

Johnstone Cat Rescue If you can help us with any fundraising or donations of either food or bedding, please call Sheena on 01505 337321. Thank you.

Ears Ear infections are often smelly. Signs include discharge from the ears, head shaking, scratching and rubbing the ears. This requires veterinary attention to treat the infection. Regular ear cleaning can help reduce wax and prevent infections.

Skin Skin infections often produce a musty smell. Other signs can include patches of hair loss, crusts, spots and scratching or rubbing. Infections may be very localised or widespread.

This requires veterinary treatment for the infection.

Anal Glands When anal glands don’t empty fully as they should when the animal defecates the contents can build up in the gland and cause a fishy smell. This causes discomfort and signs include excessive licking of the area and dragging the backend on the ground. A visit to the vet to have the glands emptied should solve the problem. Infection of the anal glands can also cause a strong smell and requires veterinary treatment.

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

Mick - Less than a year old male domestic Mick is a lovely natured little fella who just wants to be loved. He likes playing with his catnip mouse. He will need access to a garden so he can stretch these legs. He would like to be homed with children and possibly other pets.

Minnie - a 13-15 year old female domestic This is a special appeal for beautiful Minnie. She is so friendly & loves attention, she is the purrfect companion. She is not too keen on other cats, but she should be fine with older children & she would like a wee garden to potter about in. Minnie is diabetic so requires insulin injections twice a day which she is very good at taking & the cost of her insulin & vet checks would need to be taken into consideration. A nice, quiet home for this lovely lady would be ideal.

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Adopt a Donkey or Make a Donation All of the donkeys currently resident at the Scottish Borders Donkey Sanctuary are shown on the website (www.donkeyheaven.org) and are available for online adoption.

We offer the following adoption and donation packages: Package 1 - £20 Adoption of Donkey of your choice for One Year, Adoption Welcome Letter, Personalised Adoption Certificate, Small photo of chosen donkey, Sanctuary Pen, issue of current newsletter (3 issues per year) Package 2 - £25 Everything in £20 option plus greetings card with wooden donkey on front – we can add personal message to card if required Package 3 - £32 Everything in £25 option plus EITHER* A4 framed photo of chosen donkey OR donkey cuddly toy.

Package 4 - £12 Donkey Cuddly Toy Only Package 5 - Donation - Give a Donation up to £200. For larger donations please contact the Donkey Sanctuary.

You can also add: The 2017 Calendar which has a delightful selection of Donkeys from the Sanctuary and costs £7 each plus postage.

For further information please telephone 01835 823468.

Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341

Mya - a 7 year old female & Cash - a 3 - 4 year old male - both Labrador Cross Mya and Cash are mother and son and are both looking for a loving new home together. Mya is a friendly girl who can be a bit unsure at first.

She is so affectionate once she gets to know you though. She requires a quiet home with a patient owner who is willing to take on two loving dogs and give them the time they need to settle into their new environment.

Cash is a lovely boy, but can be quite nervous. He has a great bond with his mother and tends to come out of his shell a bit better with her around. Together, they require a patient owner who has lots of time to help them settle into their new home. Cash and Mya are looking for a quiet home without children.

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

Rescue Centres Dogs Trust Glasgow: 0141-773-5130 www.dogstrust.org.uk Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue: 01505-502415 www.hessilhead.org.uk Johnstone Cat Rescue: 01505 337321 Cat Protection: 0141-779-3341 www.cats.org.uk/glasgowac/adopt-a-cat Scottish SPCA: 0141-882-1688 www.scottishspca.org These centres are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising.

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

Zara - A female Lurcher - Age 2 to 5 Year Zara is a lovely wee girl who loves attention and being around people. She loves to play with toys especially squeaky ones. Zara can live with children who are 8 years old or over and needs her own secure garden to practice her training in. Due to her breed and high prey drive she needs to be kept on lead and muzzled when out on walks. Zara struggles to be left at home alone so needs a family who are around for most of the day to help her settle. Someone who has owned dogs recently would also help her settle.

Suzie - A female Crossbreed Age 2 to 5 Years Suzie is a beautiful wee girl who loves to play with toys. Her favourite game is football or playing with a squeaky toy! Suzie needs an adult only home and needs her own quiet, secure garden to practice her training in. She can be worried in new situations so needs a calm, quiet & experienced home to settle into where she will be given the time she needs to come out her shell. Suzie is looking for a home with another dog to help her get used to her new home.

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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Recycling Centres There are five recycling centres across Renfrewshire where you can recycle, re-use and dispose of a wide range of household materials: Erskine: Barrhill Road, Erskine PA8 6BU Johnstone: Miller Street, Johnstone PA5 8HP Linwood: Middleton Road, Linwood PA3 3DP Paisley: Underwood Road, Paisley PA3 1TL Renfrew: Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AJ Recycling Centre opening hours Paisley - 8am - 8pm all year round Renfrew - 8am - 7.45pm (Mon to Thurs and Sat to Sun) and 9am 6.45pm (Fri) Erskine, Johnstone and Linwood Winter hours (1 Nov to 28/29 Feb): 8am - 4.45pm Summer hours (1 Mar to 31 Oct): 8.30am - 8.15pm (Mon to Thurs), 9.30am - 7.15pm (Fri) and 9am - 4.45pm (Sat to Sun) Christmas Waste Recycle your Christmas cards in your blue recycling bin or in the paper bank at your nearest bring site or recycling site. Real Christmas trees should be taken to your nearest recycling site and put in the green waste skips. Please ensure that all decorations are removed before putting your tree in the skip.

Christmas cards are recycled back into cardboard products e.g. packaging materials, cat litter.

Please ensure that cards with foil or glitter are not placed in the recycling bin as this type of material causes contamination.

You can re-use old cards to make gift tags and new cards.

Re-useable artificial trees should be donated to charity shops.

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RECYCLING CENTRES Greenock: Pottery Street Recycling Centre (Cars & Vans), PA15 2UH Opening hours: April to September - Mon to Fri: 8am - 8.30pm; October to March - Mon to Sun: 8am – 6pm; Sat to Sun: 8am - 7.30pm Gourock: Kirn Drive Recycling Centre (Cars Only), PA19 1YT Opening hours: April to September - Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm; October to March - Mon to Sun: 8am - 6pm; Sat to Sun: 8am – 7pm.

Site closed between 10.50am – 11.30am.

The following waste items will be accepted at recycling centres: Cans, Car batteries, Electrical goods, Engine oil, Fire extinguishers, Fluorescent tubes, Food and drinks cartons, Gas canisters, Glass, Green waste, Household batteries, Mixed plastics, Non-recyclable waste, Paper and cardboard, Plasterboard, Rubble, Scrap metal, Storage heaters, Textiles and clothes, White goods, Woods, Furniture.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Soc The January winter lecture will be held in Kilmacolm New Community Centre at 7.30pm on Wednesday 18th January. Our speaker is Glenarn Garden’s founder, Mrs Sue Thornley, giving her final lecture before retiring on her big birthday! Her subject is ‘Re-inventing the Rock Garden at Glenarn’. Many of us know the wonderful rhododendrons and azaleas in Spring at Glenarn, but Sue will tell us the story and work invested in the growth of many unusual alpines that are now maturing in the new rock garden. Refreshments will be served following the lecture. Everyone welcome.

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Christmas is over and the new year has begun. If you are struggling for New Year resolutions then let me provide you with some solutions. Even though January is the coldest month of the year and you may think that all nature slumbers, upon closer look you see all the living wonders. When you take a moment to look out of your window, can you tell what those beautiful birds are? If you struggle to find the answer then our Birds for Beginners course may be perfect for you. To give you a taster here is an interesting fact for you; did you know that the Crossbill lays its eggs in January because they time their eggs to hatch when food availability is at its peak. Come along and discover the wonders of bird watching during a presentation by our expert team. We will also take a guided walk around the reserve to see what we can spot and try out our new identification skills!

To top off the day we will then enjoy a warming cuppa and a biscuit back at the visitor centre.

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society The AGM was held in December and after the formalities had been concluded, members relaxed and socialised over refreshments, shortbread and mince pies. It was an evening of mixed emotions as members thanked Agnes Crawford for an incredible 44 years as a committee member. During this time she held numerous roles and responsibilities and she was thanked for her loyal support and contributions.

Everyone wished her well in her retirement from committee work. Tributes were also made to Beth Hepburn who has been Show Secretary for 17 years and who has now resigned from this role. Beth has undertaken the responsibilities of Show Secretary with great diligence and an almost forensic attention to detail but has now decided to pass the baton on to others and spend more time travelling with husband, Donald, who recently retired. The ladies were handed bouquets of roses as a small appreciation of their endeavours. On a more positive note, 3 new members were welcomed on to the committee. Next month’s speaker will be Trish Telfer, a local gardener and writer who will be giving a presentation on More Scottish Gardens around Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, plus another surprise stop off on the journey back from the SW. She hopes to remind everyone that dreary winters and mixed-up seasons do not stop Scottish gardens coming back into flower again. We meet on Thursday 12th January at 8pm in The Legion and as always visitors are welcome. See you then and, in the meantime, best wishes from the Committee for 2017.

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Look out of the visitor centre window and you will see plenty of action! You may spot a mole busy creating tunnels, a weasel on the hunt and a variety of birds such as goldfinches, blue tits and mallards devouring food at our feeding station.

If your little ones have a sense of adventure and love to get outdoors then they’ll love our Lochwinnoch Explorers Group. This month the group will be discovering the wonderful world of garden birds. Join us to learn more, and enjoy the chance to go on an adventure through the reserve.

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Cash Boost for Kilbarchan’s Gateway Garden Community group, “Kilbarchan Smile”, was successful in securing additional funding from the Stalled Spaces initiative designed to bring disused areas back into use by local communities. The group will use the money to further develop the Gateway Garden project at the entrance to the village which is on the site of an old petrol station.

Habbies Can Get Growing!

It is hoped that the funding will help give more Habbies the opportunity to get involved in the garden to build additional growing spaces for their own use.

Joint Chair of the Kilbarchan Smile, Damon Scott said: “We are delighted we have secured additional funding for the Gateway Garden. It will enable us to buy equipment and materials to develop the space further”.

“We are planning an open day in the spring to encourage more budding gardeners to get involved and hope that some may take on their own space for growing vegetables, fruit or just flowers if that is what they want to do. We’ve already had some visits and interest from Kilbarchan Community Nursery and the Rainbows and hope to build on this with the involvement of other groups and individuals in the village.

It is a great opportunity for anyone who either doesn’t have a garden of their own or doesn’t have space in their garden to get growing!”

Kilbarchan Smile is always looking for volunteers to help with the various projects it is undertaking. To find out more about having your own growing space or to get involved in any other way contact Gail Scoular on 07985 749220, email gailscoular@gmail. com or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

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Houston Primary Eco News The Eco Committee invited the whole school to take part in ‘Turn Off Tuesday’, which meant no electronic devices for the day and limited use of the electric light. Certain areas of the school became darkened corridors, and the younger pupils were very excited by this experience. It proved that we can find alternative ways to have fun and learn. The Eco Committee recommend that adults should try it too!

The Gardening Club, planted crocus, tulips and daffodils in large planters in preparation for spring time for our main entrance. Mrs. Morrison and her team, decided that each class in the school should do this too. So eighteen large planters were purchased and filled, with the Gardening Club team taking the leading role in supporting all the classes with planting. The outsides of the planters were also decorated, making them extra special. I am sure you will agree they look amazing. Mrs Morrison will be back to judge the winning planter.

Our recycling campaign continues, and we would very much appreciate donations of clothing for our Rag Bag initiative. Last term we gained £72 for our efforts. The money gained paid for gardening equipment and seeds.

The Community Council and all of our pupils continue to make improvements to our local environment, by regularly litter picking, trimming and weeding.

The driveway down to the school is much improved. Please help to keep Houston tidy.

Recycle your Christmas Tree!

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

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

Please contact us if you need further information on 01505 328921 or visit our website at www.gowanleanurseries.co.uk

Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park Art in the Park 2017: Join the Lochwinnoch Art Group for their annual exhibition. Browse the local artistic talent over a nice hot cuppa in case Jack Frost is nipping at your toes!

This is a woodland activity programme for adults suffering from mental health conditions; it’s an amazing achievement to complete a full 12 weeks when you’re feeling low.

Pedal the Park Road Sportive Sunday 23rd April:

Get fit in 2017! Give back to your local environment in 2017 and get fit in your spare time by joining the Park’s volunteer groups. Castle Semple’s group meets every week on Thursdays 12.30pm – 3.30pm. Greenock Cut is weekly on a Saturday 10.30am - 2.30pm, they’re having an Open Day on 7th January where they’ll share what they’ve done so far.

We Support the Bid: Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park is now an ambassador organisation for the Paisley bid for City of Culture 2021. Fingers crossed the campaign is successful when the winner is announced in late 2017.

Erskine Bog Stomp Donation: Clyde Muirshiel handed over a cheque for £200 from last year’s Bog Stomp running event to the veterans of Erskine! If you would like to do the 10k off road running event then put Sunday 3rd September 2017 in your diary.

Stargazing Sessions: These popular evenings are back at Renfrewshire’s darkest sky location – Muirshiel Country Park. Next date is Monday 6th February, book now. Special deal £2.50 for a hot drink & cake!

Lunderston Bay Successful in new Play Equipment Bid: Lunderston Bay was successful in winning the Tesco Bags of Help Programme, being awarded the top prize of £12k!!! We’re looking forward to the new equipment arriving on site soon!

Branching Out Projects: Congratulations to the participants in 3 of our Branching Out Programmes, 2 at Muirshiel from RAMH and Charleston Centre Paisley, plus a group from SAMH at Greenock Cut Visitor Centre.

Online entry is now LIVE for this 100km sportive! Sign up now for just £15 and support local charity.

Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: The 2017 Ride Calendar will be out soon. Join our new ‘group style facebook page’, contact the secretary by email: ridesixtythree@gmail.com for a membership form and ride info. We have a turbo night planned for Wednesday 11th January – join us then!

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

Happy New Year All: We wish you and your family all the best for 2017, we hope to see you at a Park event or course in the New Year!

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

Weekly Volunteer Groups Newcomers always welcome!

-

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

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

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

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

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Duchal Nursery School The children enjoyed a wonderful end of term, they created a beautiful array of amazing festive crafts that decorated the nursery during the run up to Christmas and went on a magical trip to the Tron Theatre for our festive trip out. All this together with a fantastic Christmas craft workshop during Afternoon Club really got us in the festive mood.

EVERY

MONDAY

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

£2/family fee incl 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 Parish Church Tots’ Club East Church Hall, 9.15am - 11.30am

EVERY TUESDAY

Johnstone High School

Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30 - 11.30am

Baby Social

Skills Ambassadors Last term a group of twelve senior pupils from Johnstone High were given the chance to meet David Montgomery from Media Monty and Ryan Lydon from Thermo-Fisher. David and Ryan visited the school on behalf of the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce to talk about the world of media and journalism and STEM. They told the group of their experiences through school which led them into their careers. Over the coming months they will be hosting six pupil-directed workshops, passing on their knowledge of the media and STEM industry to inspire prospective students. (Morgan Spence) Renfrewshire Youth Assembly Young representatives from the Pupil Council and the recently formed Umbrella Group were recently invited to give their views at the Renfrewshire Youth Assembly.

They gave their opinions with a view to improving youth services throughout Renfrewshire, having their say on the possibility of a youth centre and improving the mental health services for young people.

Inter-Generational Quiz In November our senior students facilitated an InterGenerational quiz for primary school pupils and older adults from throughout the community.

They brought together children and older adults to improve relationships between the generations.

With the arrival of 2017 we enter our 50th year of providing a dedicated pre school education to local children. Duchal was set up in 1967 by a group of local parents who wanted to establish a special nursery within the village, creating a caring environment whilst providing the best care. It is fantastic to see how Duchal has gone from strength to strength over the years, with the wonderful new building opening in December 2008, our garden development in 2015 and our new extended hours in 2016. Duchal really does give your child the best start in life!

If you are looking for nursery places this August please get in touch to have an informal look around our nursery. We can arrange a time convenient to you to come and see the purpose built facilities, meet the teachers and children and get an insight into Duchal life.

Please contact Head Teacher Jean McCarthy on: Tel. 874358. Also visit our website to find out more www.duchal.com and keep up to date with all the latest news on Facebook.

Prelims Good luck to all of our S4 - 6 pupils who will be sitting their Prelim exams as of January 11th.

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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 incl 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 Playgroup

Langbank Village Hall 9.45 - 11.45am For 2.5 - 5yr olds.

Contact Jen Burrows 07947 983025.

Langbank Under 3’s

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

1ST & 3RD FRIDAY

S2 College Taster Course 9 S2 pupils recently completed a 6 week college taster course where they were given the opportunity to sample a variety of subjects available to them beyond high school. The pupils enjoyed learning how to change car tyres, take professional quality photographs, bake delicious cookies and how to create very convincing and rather gruesome injuries using only some wax and make up.

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers Vill. 11 am

Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club Are you planning or had an event?

Send in the details and you could be on these very pages!

McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch 1pm-2.30pm

£3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa.

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Abbey Nursery Firstly, we would like to wish all our children and parents a Happy New Year and hope that Santa was good to you all. We hope you all enjoyed your Christmas keepsakes, lovingly crafted by your children and will treasure them and we have shared a few photographs with you leading up to our festive celebrations last year.

2017 will no doubt be another exciting year for the nursery and having recharged our batteries we have lots of great ideas to bring into the playrooms to stimulate and challenge the children. Science will be a big focus for the beginning of the year with so many opportunities for hands on experiments to enjoy both indoors and outdoors. Each playroom has wonderful floor books showing all the activities taking place so please do take time to have a look at these.

Our Christmas Fayre was a great success and thank you to everyone that attended. This is not just an opportunity to raise money but perhaps more importantly to take time to chat with parents and enjoy a mince pie together and Marshall (Paw Patrol) was a favourite with everyone on the day.

Trudy and Kevin Johnson visited the Scottish Parliament recently and took the opportunity to chat over lunch with MSP’s Maurice Corry and Brian Whittle about the challenges within childcare and pre school education as well as the importance of regular exercise for all young children. Both were impressed with the approach we take at Abbey Nursery to support and nurture all children and hope to visit the nursery soon to follow up our conversation.

Again the nursery finds itself very busy just now with waiting lists for the Spring and Summer so if anyone would like to put their name down for their child we would urge you to visit us as soon as possible and we can reserve your place for 2017.

Howwood Primary School P6 & P7 ‘Titanic’ Open Event The P6 and P7 pupils at Howwood Primary recently invited their parents and grandparents to return to school for the afternoon. The pupils are studying ‘The Titanic’ and, as part of this topic, they have been learning all about the tragic events and the people affected by them. After entertaining their visitors with songs associated with Titanic some of the pupils staged a mock court case to explore where the blame lay for the disaster. As well as viewing the children’s work, including models of Titanic, parents and grandparents were challenged to try their hand at a Titanic based quiz. Acting Head Teacher, Mr Shields, explained, “The Titanic topic has provided the children with a great opportunity to learn and apply skills across a wide range of curricular areas. The children have engaged really well with the topic and have been moved by learning about some of the individual stories of Titanic’s passengers”. Mrs Wilson, the P7 class teacher, added, “The pupils have loved sharing their learning with their parents and grandparents. Later in the school year, we are planning to take the pupils on a trip to Belfast to see the Titanic Experience and visit where she was built – I’m sure that will be another highlight for them.”

Kilbarchan Community Nursery December was a very busy month in nursery. Our Christmas Fayre on the 3rd raised the magnificent total of £1,950, thanks to all those who helped or donated prizes, as well as those who attended on the day.

Children decorated plates with special pens donated by LEAP project, made tree decorations and calendars which were all sold to raise funds for nursery.

The Christmas show ‘The gingerbread men’s Christmas adventure’ was held on the 8th December. The children all took part confidently performing the story they had created themselves.

One parent commented ‘What a fabulous show!

So much hard work went into it and the children were fantastic.’

The nursery is now closed for the Christmas holidays and will re-open on Thursday 5th January.

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Kilmacolm Playgroup & Toddlers The run up to Christmas was very busy at Playgroup, with lots of Christmas crafts and even a visit from Santa at the Christmas party. We look forward to starting the new year and welcoming some new children to Playgroup. This term we will be focusing on Goldilocks and the Three Bears, singing lots of nursery rhymes, and learning all about Chinese New Year. Playgroup runs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Lesser Hall at St Columba Church, for children aged 2 years 4 months and over. For more information, or to enquire about available places, contact Playgroup Secretary Claire at kilmacolmplaygroupandtoddlers@gmail.com.

Our Toddlers group is on Wednesday mornings, also in the Lesser Hall, from 10am - 11.30am and is a fantastic opportunity for 0 - 3-year-olds to play and make friends, and for their parents and carers to have a natter over a cup of tea. Come along to find out more, or contact Frances at kilmacolmtoddlers@ outlook.com. Our website is kilmacolmplaygroupandtoddlers.jimdo.com.

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Gryffe High School

Bridge of Weir Primary

Fairtrade Afternoon Tea

Happy New Year! As last term becomes a distant memory, Bridge of Weir Primary can be content that as they look forward to 2017, 2016 was a big success.

P1, 2 and 3 pupils were VERY excited to receive their Book Bug and Read, Write, Count bags during Book Week Scotland in November and the parents who came along to the workshops seemed to enjoy themselves too! Many thanks to everyone who came along and also to Bridge of Weir Co-op who kindly donated drinks and snacks for this special event. Book Week was celebrated throughout the school with parents and pupils from Gryffe High School coming in for storytelling sessions, visits to the local library and P4 - 7 pupils taking up the First Minister’s Reading Challenge. Great fun all round!

The Citizenship committee recently held an afternoon tea to raise money for Rainbow Turtle. Rainbow Turtle have been extremely supportive of the school in the past few years. They have provided our pupils with many learning opportunities from MP discussions to meeting producers from Swaziland and Ghana. Our tea raised £140 which will be donated to the organisation. A huge thank you goes to all pupils and staff for baking and volunteering at the event.

A special thank you goes to Laura Workman (S3) and Christian Galvin (S2) who provided music throughout the afternoon. Thanks to everyone who attended.

Book Week Scotland……

The English Department transformed into Hogwarts for Book Week Scotland. Along with librarian Mrs Kerr, they arranged a magical range of activities.

These included Bookbug sessions with the local primary schools, a Book Sale, a Harry Potter Quiz and they even managed to persuade staff to dress up in a Harry Potter themed day. The English department was completely decorated for the event including a Platform 9 ¾ - they had basically thought of everything!!

A lot of hard work but a most enjoyable week!

Houston Baby & Toddlers We loved celebrating Christmas - we made our own decorations and had so much fun at our party with Santa. Thank you for all the donations that were dropped off with us for the Glasgow based charity, ‘Birth, Baby and Beyond’, it was very much appreciated. At Houston Baby & Toddler group, children from 0 - 4 years old, together with their parents/grandparent/carer, will receive a warm welcome. The children can have fun playing with our many toys while the adults chat over a cuppa! We meet every Thursday 9.30am - 11.30am (term time only - open from 5th Jan 2017) in the West Hall, Main Street, Houston, PA6 7EL (next door to the Carrick Centre) – welcome anytime. We look forward to meeting you. Sharon, Lesley & Fiona. (lesleyannjackson@outlook.com)

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P3 children enjoyed a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum last term where they explored real ancient Egyptian artefacts and got to touch lots of items which are thousands of years old. It was a fantastic climax to the ancient Egypt topic. At the end of the visit it was time to dress up in ancient Egyptian clothing and to witness the mummification of a pharaoh. Not your usual day at school!

Congratulations to Erin in Primary 6a who came first in the photography competition organised by the Gryffe Camera Club. Her photograph features an underwater picture taken with a special waterproof camera. Erin won the fabulous prize of a £25 Braehead voucher. Thank you to the Camera Club for organising this and inspiring young people to take up photography.

Christmas came early to Bridge of Weir with our Christmas Fayre at the end of November which raised an amazing £1,800. Pupils had produced an impressive array of decorations, sweet treats and other items to sell on the evening and Christmas shopping got underway with jewellery, art work, books and other goodies also for sale. A huge thank you to our Parent Council who put so much effort into organising this event and to everyone who came along and helped make it such a success.

Our Primary 1 pupils were very surprised to hear that Santa had been in touch to say that he was rather short of elves this year and would it be possible for the P1 teachers to train up the children so that they could perhaps help him out in the future? Elf Training Workshops were immediately organised and children spent a whole day honing the necessary skills including practising balancing (for walking along rooftops), making decorations, bags of reindeer food, Christmas trees and magic keys (totally unaware that they were also developing literacy, mathematics, ICT and physical skills!). There’s no doubt Santa will find a very high quality elf workforce if he is ever recruiting in Bridge of Weir. Well done too to P1 teachers Miss Sweeney, Ms McCann, Ms Davies and to Head Teacher Mrs Vallance who joined in the fun and took on the role of Elf Training instructors.

Rivendale Nursery One of the children from our nursery has secured a place in the finals of the www.minimecardco.com National Christmas 2016 art competition, to win their own star!

“We think creativity is vital for helping children develop” said Angela Thomson from Rivendale Nursery. “Our aim is to develop great life skills for all our children for use in later life. We really enjoyed making our art, which was made into free greetings card and fundraising project - but had no idea we would get into the finals. The prizes are stars, named after the overall winners and information about the sky at night which will be really interesting for our children, so we are keeping our fingers crossed!”

The artwork will now be judged by a professional artist to decide the overall winners from across the uk.

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Houston Primary Nursery News After many rehearsals, the nursery pupils performed their show, ‘Grumpy Santa’ to their families. They sang lots of songs to cheer Santa up just in time for Christmas. After the wonderful performance everyone enjoyed cakes and shortbread with a surprise visit from Santa! In the nursery the children made lots of Christmas crafts, wrote lots of letters and cards and played in the Post Office. To end the term the magician entertained the children at their Christmas party.

Festive Fun The very first Christmas light designed by Abi Furniss of Houston Primary School was illuminated at a wonderful community event in the village. The Fox & Hounds generously provided free hot chocolate and soup to keep everyone warm while they were waiting for the lights and firework display.

Following this friends and families made their way down to our Christmas Fayre which was extremely well attended. We thank everyone who came down to support this annual fundraiser.

The pupils from P1 - 3 performed their Christmas shows to packed audiences, demonstrating confidence and enthusiasm. They really did put us all in the mood for Christmas. The junior and senior choir have been performing in school, at Glasgow Airport and as part of ‘The Big Sing’ at Houston & Killellan Church. A huge thank you to all the staff and Mrs Hey who give up their free time to ensure wonderful events like these happen.

From all the pupils and staff at Houston Primary School, we hope you have a happy new year.

Mid Gavin Nursery The children were very busy in the run up to Christmas – making lots of arts and crafts, practicing their nativity show for all the mummies and daddies, and of course a visit from Santa!

Our children enjoyed wearing tartan and taking part in their own ceilidh as part of our St. Andrews Day celebrations and got to try some tasty Scottish snacks.

Our Christmas Fayre was a great success – raising £1,003 to go towards new resources for our children. We would like to thank everyone who came along to support the nursery!

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Photography Blog

by Lauren Russell, Owner, Little Studio Kilmacolm

Don’t say cheese! Tips for Natural Smiles When I first started photographing kids, I was sometimes a little baffled by how to get a genuine smile from them. Especially from those who are old enough to force a “smile on demand.” I want to have the genuine look of joy exude, frozen in time forever in a photograph, and I love giving that gift to other parents.

Here are my top tips for photographing younger children to help replace the fake with the fab.

Don’t say cheese - it’s a default to automatically shout the ‘say cheese’ line - when saying “cheese,” the mouth stretches unnaturally and it is just not as warming as a natural smile.

Use a little reverse psychology - Tell the child “do not smile. Under no circumstances should you smile. Don’t smile. Hey, you’re smiling. No, you can’t!!” this usually draws out a laugh and a natural smile.

Make the session fun - kids have very short attention spans, so try to be animated and lively, and turn the photo session into a game. An example: ‘can you find the third step and sit there?’

Be funny – ask silly questions in the form of a joke, “So, I hear you’re 25 years old! What, you’re not?! Are you sure? You look 25 !….”

Another one is take a song every child knows like “Twinkle, Twinkle”. Now change a word in it - “twinkle, twinkle little chicken.” What? Chicken??!!”

Sounds silly, but it works and kids think it’s hilarious.

So, remember next time you want to achieve those natural candid shots of children, warm up your singing voices, get ready to move around, be prepared to make your kids laugh, and make sure you leave the cheese at home in the fridge!

Your goal is not to make them smile, but to give them a reason to smile.

Langbank Playgroup At Langbank playgroup, children have the opportunity to develop their social skills, independence, creativity, numeracy, literacy skills and many, many more…..

We recently took part in fundraising for Children in Need. The children were given an insight into the importance of raising funds for less fortunate children. Children and staff came to playgroup dressed in their pyjamas and brought their favourite teddy bear.

Parents also joined in by providing some fabulous home baking which was then bought at our coffee and cake morning. Thanks to the kind and very generous donations we managed to raise a grand total of £106.15p!!!! What an amazing achievement!

Do you have a child aged between 2.5yrs to 5yrs old? Then why not let them come along and experience the fun! Everyone welcome from Langbank and surrounding areas.

Playgroup is held on a Friday morning (term time) in Langbank Village Hall and we currently have spaces for children aged 2.5yrs to 5yrs. If you would like to join us on a Friday morning or for more information please contact Jen Burrows on 07947 983025.

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St Columba School Visiting Us and Entrance Assessments We would love to show you what we can offer your child - please make an appointment to visit and see our Early Years, Junior and Senior Schools at work and play. Situated in the leafy village of Kilmacolm, St Columba’s provides excellent all-through education for boys and girls aged 3 - 18 years and offers wrap-around care from age 3. From Early Years we offer a safe environment with lots of outdoor fun in our beautiful grounds, nurturing your child’s love of learning. For those who wish to join us for their sixth year we also offer a wide range of Advanced Higher subjects and are happy to discuss your options with you.

Our entrance assessments begin on 6th January - to find out more please contact Junior School on 01505 872768, Senior School on 01505 872238 or visit www.st-columbas.org.

World Debating Championships Jessica Curry and Hannah McLoughlin have secured two of the five places on the Scottish Schools’ Debating Team to represent Scotland at the World Debating Championships in Bali next summer. The team is selected from schools across Scotland, and Jessica and Hannah along with fellow pupils, Jamie Beverstock and Rachael Curry, were four of the final twelve trialists for Team Scotland. The World Schools’ Debating Championships is a global competition for high school debaters and over forty countries are now represented at the Championships. St Columba’s pupils have represented Team Scotland in Athens 2009, Qatar 2010, Turkey 2013, Bangkok 2014, Singapore 2015, Stuttgart 2016 - of which Jessica was part of the team - and now Bali 2017.

Wallace Primary School opens the doors to new nursery Wallace Primary School in Elderslie has opened the doors to its £480,000 brand new nursery class located in a new purpose-built extension.

Parents, nursery children and council representatives attended the official unveiling (on Sunday December 11th) of the new classroom which will enable Wallace Primary School to increase the number of children who can attend both the morning and afternoon sessions from 30 to 50. The nursery class had previously been located in a separate external building.

At the opening event children treated their parents to a tour of their new classroom, showing them round all the stations and activities. Later in the day parents were able to enjoy a performance of the nativity play the staff and children had prepared specially for the occasion.

Renfrewshire’s Depute Provost John Caldwell said: “The opening of the new Wallace Primary School nursery class is great news for the area as it will enable more children to start their early years education. It was great to see the children so excited and eager to show off their new classroom on the day.”

Wallace Primary School Head Teacher, Susan Carlton, said: “The opening of the new nursery means the children will now start their nine-year school career inside the Wallace Primary School building bringing the whole school

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community together under one roof. The children were very excited to show the new classroom to their parents. All their hard work in their nativity play rehearsals resulted in a great performance which helped put everyone in the festive spirit.”

The building programme also featured a safety project where a team from the council’s Community R e s o u r c e s engaged with youngsters about safety issues on live construction sites.

Renfrewshire’s Depute Provost John Caldwell pictured with Wallace Primary School head teacher, Susan Carlton, opens new nursery class

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Port Glasgow High School

Scottish Schools’ Fencing Champion Congratulations to Olivia Burns who, in addition to holding the title of U-15 British Pentathlon Champion, now also holds the title of U-16 Scottish Schools’ Individual Fencing Champion. Olivia competed in the epée, the only fencing event in which the entire body is the valid target area requiring a large amount of concentration, accuracy and speed.

It’s been a busy time for senior pupils at PGHS Senior pupils at PGHS participated in the FOCUS West, a programme which focuses on widening access to higher education in the West of Scotland.

The programme took place at the UWS where pupils practised key skills and developed critical thinking to support them through the UCAS process.

Pupils found the programme insightful and extremely worthwhile.

PGHS Music Department

St Columba’s runs extra-curricular fencing clubs for Junior 5 - 6 pupils and Senior I - II pupils.

Kirsten McKay, S6, a talented flautist, was invited to perform at the Annual SQA Star Awards. The ceremony took place in the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh and guests were guided through the evening by presenter Kaye Adams.

Trip to Mérignies

Senior IV French Exchange pupils visited Mérignies, a little village close to Lille and a twin town of Kilmacolm. They enjoyed spending time with their penpal families, a tour of the village and a reception with the Mayor and now look forward to the return visit to Scotland in March.

Talented young PGHS musicians had an extremely busy schedule in December. Performing at primary schools, care homes and hospitals, pupils gave outstanding performances culminating in the school’s Christmas Service.

Kings Theatre Workshop Vocalist and instrumentalists had a fantastic opportunity to work with Matthew Abrams, musical director for the Kings Theatre. This exciting musical theatre workshop allowed pupils to enhance their performing skills and learn from the best in the business.

Infant Christmas Celebration

The Magical Christmas Jigsaw was beautifully performed on 6th and 7th December by our children in Early Years to Junior 3. The children had great fun and there were lots of proud family members in the audience.

The Season of Giving Junior School pupils held a charity dressdown day and a very successful bake sale to raise a whopping £1,140 for BBC Children in Need. At the time of going to print our Pipe Band was busy rehearsing for the annual festive performance in Kilmacolm’s village centre in aid of Ardgowan Hospice, a Christmas jumper day was being organised by the School’s charity committee for Save the Children and Junior School reception was jammed full of Christmas presents for a local children’s charity in Inverclyde.

We wish you all a restful festive break and a happy new year.

S1 to S3: Beauty and the Beast Pantomime S1 to S3 pupils wowed audiences by performing the brilliant “Beauty and the Beast” panto. The performances were enjoyed by pupils of the Kilmacolm and Newark Primary and residents of Newark Care Home. Oh, yes they did...!

PGHS Young Enterprise Senior pupils have created a vibrant enterprise team who would have Alan Sugar quaking in his boots! The team have researched, designed, manufactured and marketed a variety of home décor products. Product Catalogue and order form can be found on the school website. Http:// portglasgow.inverclyde.sch.uk/extra-curricular-activities/pghs-youngenterprise-2016-17/ Family Food

Local Playgroup receives £500 Grant

On the weeks leading up to Christmas holidays, S1 pupils and parents participated in the “Family Food Project” where they worked together to create a festive feast and practise their culinary skills.

Mrs Cameron from HE department was suitably impressed with the results!

St Columba’s Playgroup in Paisley has received a £500 grant from the Ross and Liddell Community Bursary programme. The funding will go towards toys, helping the children’s growth and the development of the play group.

Stephen Burns, a spokesperson for the playgroup, said: “This is great news for St Columba’s Playgroup. We appreciate the grant from the Ross and Liddell Community Bursary Programme.”

“All the funding will be put to good use to help buy toys and develop the playgroup.”

“I would also like to thank Councillor Kenny MacLaren who informed me of the Ross and Liddell Community Bursary programme and encouraged me to apply for a grant on behalf of the playgroup.”

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Inverclyde Appeal

Foodbank

PGHS pupils and staff got the whole community involved to support the Inverclyde Foodbank at Christmas. Food Donations and money were collected at parents evening and on Christmas Jumper Day. Follow us on Twitter @PortGlasgowHS

and

@PGHS_PE_

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Lochwinnoch Primary School We said a fond farewell to Miss Park on 29th November as she left to take up a Secondment Post with Renfrewshire Council working on the Scottish Attainment Challenge. Miss Park has spent the last 12 years serving Lochwinnoch Primary, its children, staff and the local community. In her time at Lochwinnoch we have seen many exciting charity events (raising tens of thousands for various charities), new initiatives, family fun nights, recognition across the authority for the achievements of our wonderful children and most recently a substantial investment by the council into the school building itself. We appreciate all that Miss Park has done for the school in her time with us and will look back on her time spent here with fond memories. We would like to wish her every success and happiness in her new role. She very kindly gave the children a school mascot, our very own Nemo, with the advice to, “just keep swimming.” We will all make sure, as we move forward we heed her advice and persevere in all we do. Looking to the future now, we extend a very warm welcome to Acting Head Teacher, Mr Thomas McCormick. Mr McCormick has 12 years experience as a Head Teacher and is looking forward to working with us as we take the next step in our journey.

Scottish Book Week There was a buzz of excitement through the school during Scottish Book Week. Each class took part in a variety of literacy based activities.

Children from Primary 2 and Primary 3 kicked things off with a Book, Biscuit and Boogie event before school on Monday. Children received their free Read, Write and Count bags filled with goodies to develop their literacy and numeracy skills. Many classes had parents or grandparents visiting to read excerpts to the children. Primary 7 visited their Primary 1 and Primary 2 buddies where they enjoyed reading with them; an activity loved by all the children! They even carried out some peer assessment!

Across the school, all the children have taken part in the First Minister’s Reading Challenge and since September have read an astounding 2,800 books!

Scottish Book Week was finished off perfectly with Primary 4’s wonderful assembly on books. They shared some of their favourite books and their songs and dancing proved very popular.

Elsewhere in the school, Primary 4 and 4/3 went on a lovely walk around the village.

The children had questions to answer on various landmarks and places around the village. It was a cold afternoon but the children had a great time. They didn’t manage to answer all the questions but some children took them home to try and find the answers!

EVERY

MONDAY

Adult Jazz Class

Bridge of Weir 10am Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

Adult Beginners Ballet Class Bridge of Weir 11.30am

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

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, Linwood, 7-8pm/8-9pm www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

EVERY TUESDAY

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

1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000.

Gryffe Badminton

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

Football Training

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

EVERY

WEDNESDAY

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

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall 5.15, 6.15 & 7.30pm

EVERY THURSDAY

Parents, carers and pupils enjoyed the Nativity performed by the Nursery, Primary 1 and Primary 2 in the Parish Church on Friday 16th December.

Our Christmas service was held in Calder Church on Monday 19th December at 10am. The woodwind and choir performed well and it was lovely to have so many parents join us in our celebration of Christmas.

Kilbarchan Athletic Club

Lochwinnoch Primary organised a reverse advent calendar, encouraging children to think about the joy in giving to those less fortunate at this time of year. Each day, within each class, a child brought an item (tins, cereals, pasta, rice, cleaning products, etc.). All the items collected across the whole school and nursery were gathered and a representative from the local foodbank attended our Christmas Service to collect them, in order to make someone’s Christmas a little better.

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm, 10am

St Fillan’s Primary All at St. Fillan’s attended the PACE panto at Paisley Arts Centre. We saw Aladdin – Oh yes we did! It was a fantastic show with great audience participation. Adults and children all thoroughly enjoyed the show.

Our singing group performed at The Paisley Centre on the morning of Friday 9th December. They had a great time singing the carols and Christmas songs they had been preparing. The money they raised goes to Ronald McDonald House for the families of sick children to use at times of need. Many parents from St. Fillan’s went along to watch them perform.

Some of our children took part in a squash tournament at Strathgryffe Tennis Club so let’s hope we can look out for some future players in this sport.

The traditional Nativity story was performed by our P1 - 3 pupils, while our older children sang some Christmas Carols and songs.

At our Fair Trade Coffee morning at the beginning of December we raised over £40 for SCIAF. Thank you to all those parents who were able to support us.

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On-X, Linwood, 7pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Kilmacolm Walkers

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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Ranfurly Golf Club The Golf Club seems to be as busy as ever despite the main golfing season being over. The balmy weather has meant that play has continued well beyond what we would normally expect.

The Ladies held their annual 9 Hole Christmas Fun competition on Wednesday 7th December with 36 Ladies playing. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t quite as kind as it has been, but that didn’t stop us enjoying the day, in very mild conditions. Teams of three played a stableford format with an Xmas ball providing double points. The penalty for loosing this ball was a fine and the remaining holes having just the best single stableford score.

Sadly, a few of the teams lost the Xmas ball!!

january 2017

55

Get ready for the next BIKE SWAP this February Dust off your bikes and get cycling! Bike the wrong size? Swap it for another.

Unused bike lurking at the back of the garage? Donate it, so another can use it. No bike to swap? Come along to see if there is one that suits you.

The Kilbarchan Boys Brigade, in association with LEAP, will be running a Bike Swap on Saturday, 4th February, 12 2pm at the Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan. Bikes of all sizes and conditions welcome!

Later, the golfers were joined by a further 11 ladies for lunch. Xmas attire was the order of the day and it is amazing that there were no duplications of Xmas jumpers! A lot of thought had gone into some of the outfits but it was an ‘Xmas Parcel’, worn by Helen Crichton, that won the prize.

The winning golf team, with 41 points for 9 holes, consisted of Lilias Snodgrass, Anne Nicoll and Gillian Donaghy while the runners up with 38 points were Karen Binning, Dorothy Simpson and Jennifer Cairns.

Santa visited the club on Saturday 3rd December - he was just starting his very busy month. 35 children had a lovely time and Santa was his usual cheery, generous self, helped by his trusty Elf.

GRYFFE VALLEY 10K RUN Advertising will be put in place to promote the annual 10K run, being arranged for Sunday 7th May 2017. The date is chosen to allow four months of training after the Christmas and New Year celebrations!

SAVE THE DATE!

Sporting Blog

by Lesley Handley

Fitness is not a ‘one-size fits all’. Just like we all have different tastes in food, fashion, movies and a host of other things, fitness too is an individualised thing. We all want different things and different outcomes and it is becoming increasingly difficult in today’s social media fuelled industry to be happy and content with ourselves and our own progress. We see endless images of perfect abs, toned arms and strong bodies - but is this really the true meaning of fitness? Should we all be striving for the “social-media look”?

No! And here is why... It’s not sustainable for 90% of you. The majority of these social-media stars get paid and sponsored to look the way they look; in most cases to try to sell you a product and I can almost guarantee that they do not look like that for the majority of the year. Most of the images in papers, adverts and promotional material have been taken at precisely the right time to capture the best image in the right environment with the best lighting. So now that the New Year is here there will be images and headlines everywhere you look, with toned/fit men and women promoting things within the industry.

The majority of you have no desire for a six pack, nor are you looking to compete at an athletic level. You probably feel anxious about going to the gym; but let me tell you a secret ... we all are! Everyone in the gym is selfconscious about something, as, unless for complete health reasons, why would they be there?

So maybe you are looking to fit into a particular outfit, or maybe you want to be healthier for your children/grandchildren, or perhaps the thought of climbing stairs without being breathless is your goal – they all require an element of commitment and dedication to a fitness programme – and all the programmes would be different!

Fitness is an individualised feeling of well being and achievement. It is different for everyone. Be you, be unique and reach the best version of you!

Lesley

For more information on Personal Training, fitness or nutrition contact me on 0773 627 4925 or e-mail Lesley@fitsmartfitness.co.uk.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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MUSIC TUITION

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SITUATIOns Vacant

CHILDCARE 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

MISCELLANEOUS

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

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

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

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

Fri 13 January Therapy room to RENT ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY

£16.79 per

February ‘17 Issue: • Deadline: 13 Jan • Delivery: 27 Jan • March ‘17 Issue: • Deadline: 10 Feb • Delivery: 24 Feb

MONTH (incl. VAT)

churches BRIDGE OF WEIR

Freeland Church: Rev KN Gray BA BD. Morning Service 10.30am.

Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and Cornerstone. Evening Service 7pm www.freeland. org.uk St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Johnston Rd, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3EE. Our Services are held every Sunday at 10am.

On the first Sunday each month at 6pm we welcome all who enjoy the beauty of quietness and peace at “Sanctuary” our Contemplative Service. All who seek God in mindful enquiry, in beauty, in quietness and service to others, all who are tired of life or full of it, all who are confident or all who are afraid - indeed whoever you are - you are welcome here! http://www.heartlandsec.org/ BoW/index.html Contact: Revd.

Heller G.P 01505 872961.

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.

HOWWOOD

Howwood Parish Church. Minister Rev May Bell. Sunday Service and Sunday School. 10am each Sunday. Prayer meeting held at 3 Bowfield Way, Howwood, 7.30pm on Tuesdays.

HOUSTON

Houston and Killellan Kirk: Church of Scotland, Scottish Charity no SC 012822. www. houstonkirk.org. During the current Ministerial vacancy, the Rev. Ian Bell will conduct our services. 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th January at 11am - Morning Worship. 5th February 2017 - 9.45am - Early Service: The Sacrament of Holy Communion.

11am - Morning Worship. Do come and join us - you will be made very welcome St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am. Weekday Mass: Tues Sat 9.30am except Thurs, 7pm.

Reconciliation: Sat 10 - 10.30am and after Vigil Mass; Thurs 7.30 8pm. Exposition: As announced.

All are welcome. Baptisms: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month by arrangement. Parish Priest: Rev. Daniel J McLoughlin, Dip. Th.,MA Pastoral Assistant: Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). “Abbotsfield”, St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T: 01505 612046, F: 01505 610556. E: parish@ stfillan.org.uk. www.stfillan. org.uk Houston Baptist Church at Carrick Centre: 11am Family services with SS for children age 5 - 12; 6pm Eve Service; Mid-week Home Bible Study; For more information contact; Rev. D Snelson 01505 612722.

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

Family services at 10.30am with full toddler, children & youth activities running concurrently with the service. Youth meets at 6.30pm - 8pm on Sundays.

Word and Table Quiet Service held from 9am - 9.30am every 3rd Sunday. www.houston. nazarene.org.uk

KILBARCHAN

K i l b a r c h a n P a r i s h C h u rc h : Services continue at 11am each Sunday throughout December, conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith. Sunday School and the creche meet in the large hall from 10.45am each week and refreshments will be served after the service as usual.

L O CA L IN F O R M A T I O N 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 Tuesday 7pm.

(NB: no meetings July, August and January) www.bridgeofweir.org BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm in February, April, June, August, October and December on 2nd Thursday of the month.

KILMACOLM

St Columba Church of Scotland: (charity no. SC007992) Morning Worship Sundays at 11am. All welcome. Coffee/tea served in the hall after the service.

Grace Church Kilmacolm: in association with Downavale Free Church of Scotland (Charity No: SCO38274) - Sunday Service at 10.30am in Kilmacolm Guide Hut, Woodrow Avenue, PA13 4QF - all welcome.

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

Minister Rev. Dr Peter McEnhill (01505 873174). Morning Worship – Sundays 11am, all welcome Sunday School and Crèche available. Night Kirk, a short reflective service 1st Sunday each month at 6pm.

Sòlas Bereavement Group, 2nd Thursday each month at 6:30pm in Kidston Hall.

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 11 a m . Ro s a r y Tu e s d ay s 6.30pm. Prayer group meets Thursdays 7.30pm. Further information and contact details www.stcolmsparish.co.uk. All welcome.

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

St Fillan’s Episcopal Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4DL. Services on Sunday at 11.30am.

Wednesday: 10.30am Holy Communion. On the last Sunday of the month at 11:30am we welcome families to come and join us for our monthly Family Service. We are united by our belief in Jesus, who sustains and encourages us in all the ups and downs of life. Everyone is welcome to join us ! http://www. heartlandsec.org/KLM/index. html Contacts: Revd. Heller G.P 01505 872961 / Maureen Russell (Pastoral Assistant) 01505 872905.

LANGBANK

HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wed at 7.30pm www.houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.co.uk

Langbank Parish Church: Rev. Dr. Ken Forrest. Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Crèche and young people’s group, the Welcomers. Tea/ coffee after the service. Church service starts at 10am. Come along and meet in the Hall from 9.50am. Charity No. SC015085.

HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. www.howwood.com/community-council.php

Parish Church: Rev. May Bell.

11.30am Morning Ser vice Sunday School and Crèche.

Calder United Free Church: (Church Street, Lochwinnoch) Sunday: 11am Morning 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.

LOCHWINNOCH: Bowling Club: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

LOCHWINNOCH

QUARRIERS

Mount Zion Church: Rev. Andy Lunn BSc, (01475 791282) Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village, PA11 3FD. Sunday Worship: 10:30am, Bible Study and Prayer Meetings: Wednesday at 7pm and Friday at 10 am. “Mozzy” Youth Club Thursdays at 6:30 for young people of high school age. Half night of prayer: 7pm – midnight, 4th Friday of each month. Feel free to come along at any of these times.

‘The Gatherin’ is at 7pm on the fourth Sunday of each month, at Mount Zion Church in Quarriers Village. The Gatherin’ for people to come together who hunger for more of the presence of the Lord and to be fed from His word.

Please come and invite others: all welcome!

Celebrate Christmas with us. At this festive time of year we praise God for Jesus, the source of our joy. Sunday 18th December Family Service at 10:30am - Christmas truth for all age groups, with puppets, carols and fun; Christmas Eve - Carols by Candlelight at 7pm - Christmas carols for all and musical items from our church and young people. Come early for a good seat! Followed by seasonal refreshments; Christmas Day - Family Celebration at 10:30am.

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

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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Items For Sale Baby Equipment Toilet trainer seat, white, VGC, £5 (2 available). Tel: 01505 874870.

Potty Chair Mothercare, red (2 available), VGC, £5. Tel: 01505 874870.

Britax Car Seat black forward facing, 15-36 kg, good condition. £15. Tel: 01505 874870.

Clothes & Shoes Brownie Uniform Age 7 - 8 approx. Hoodie: 26”chest, leggings 20”waist, t-shirt 24”chest & long sleeved top 24”chest. Bought new, used but in good condition. £25.

Tel: 07791 374954.

Tap shoes, pink, junior sizes 10 and 11. £10 per pair. VGC. Tel: 01505 874870.

Figure skates, white, junior size 10, good condition. £10. Tel: 01505 874870.

Brand new waist waders, size 10 rubber boots. £35. Tel: 07882 984824.

Emu ladies brown leather boots - never worn. Size 5. £50.

Tel: 01505 703027.

Household & Garden Cordless Cobra Lawn Mower, 8 months old with remainder of 2 year warranty to run.

Cost in excess of £300 would accept first offer over £100.

Tel: 01505 613513 or E: brian. cox56@btopenworld.com ‘Stressless’ Cream Leather Chair & Stool. VGC. £190.

Tel: 07763 665496.

Nest of 4 Chinese glass top tables. Mother of Pearl figures white in colour. Bottle green with drawers. £50. Tel: 07882 984824.

Solid oak media unit (61cm x 104cm x 50cm) in extremely good condition. One half with single shelf and the other with enclosed cupboard. £70. Tel: 07713 163639 Royal Doulton ‘Tapestry’ Quality China:- Dinner, Coffee & Tea service. Offers when seen.

Tel: 01505 703433.

Single bed, solid wood headboard and footboard in sky blue together with good quality mattress. £175. Tel: 01505 874075.

Electrical & Gas Microwave Oven and Toaster, white. £15 for both. Tel: 01505 326230.

t: 01505 613340

Electric white bathroom Towel Rail. £10. Tel: 01505 613460.

Servis Freezer. Suitable for under worktop or garage, in good working condition. £20.

Tel: 01505 613460.

Sports Toddler Bicycle helmets (44 48cm) pink x 2, suits appr.

1 - 5 yrs old. VGC. £5 each.

Tel: 01505 874870.

PGA golf cart bag, grey with 13 dividers. £35. Tel: 01505 842950.

Dunlop golf bag with stand. 4 dividers. Black/yellow. £30.

Tel: 01505 842950.

3 kettle bells. Unwanted gift, as new. 2 x 7.5kg blue, 1 x 5kg yellow. £30 total. Will consider selling individually. Must uplift. Tel: 07810 815137.

Kids Kilbarchan Athletics Running Kit – Adidas all round star junior track spikes, size 5 blue, vgc, worn 3 times only with various sets of spikes. £10. Kilbarchan Athletics XS adult competition running vest never worn - as new. £5. Kilbarchan Athletics short sleeve training sports top Age 12/13 worn twice great condition. £5. Karrimor Run long sleeve fluorescent yellow running top Age 11/12 worn twice, vgc. £5 and running jacket never worn vgc. £5. Sell all together for £25. Tel: 07791 295290.

Golf Clubs: Complete set of Taylor Made Burner Plus Irons 4-SW, Men’s right hand. Excellent condition. £150. Tel: 07823 880680 Taylor Made Jet Speed driver with head cover. Men’s right hand. Excellent condition. £50. Tel: 07823 880680 Toys/Games/DVD Little Tikes Evergreen Country Cottage with pretend sink and stove, age 2 - 6 yrs, 127cm long x 104cm wide x 131cm high. Good condition. Cost new £300, sell for £55. Tel: 01505 874870.

Various toddler bikes, balance bikes, with and without stabilizers & scooters from £0 - £10. Tel: 01505 874870.

Other Items Supercrest Electric Foot Warmer in box. Never used. £10.

Tel: 01505 703027.

Brand new steel car wheel 6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre 185/60 R15. Stored as spare wheel only. £80. Tel: 07736 067169.

07731 923970

BMW winter tyres suitable for BMW E87, 116i sport 5dr, BMW E81 3dr, E90 E series, E91 3 series. Selling due to new car (6ml tread). £120.

Tel: 01505 613845.

OPTUS spiegel-telekop reflector telescope, f=700, d=76, art-nr 96, 185000. New condition. £40. Tel: 01505 842189.

4Continental tyres 215/55R18H95 great tread. £50 each. Tel: 01505 873750 or 07538 429637.

Wanted Items

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

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

Local lily grower requires the use of a greenhouse/polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

Free

Cy c l e

2 Cupboard Doors. Flush woodtype finish with honeycomb centres and cupboard fittings.

85 in. x 25 in. In good condition. Tel: 01505 613460.

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Registering your child for Primary Education Children who reach 5 years of age between 1st March 2017 and 28th February 2018 inclusive should be registered for education in their catchment school as follows: Pupils whose surnames begin with the initials A to L should be registered on Wednesday 11th January 2017.

Pupils whose surnames begin with M to Z should be registered on Thursday 12th January 2017.

Registration will take place between 1pm and 3pm.

Parents should produce their child’s birth certificate and two proofs of residence, which must include council tax notice for the property or proof that you have registered for council tax at that property, and a letter from your solicitor confirming that missives have been concluded or a rentbook for rented property, tenancy agreement or mortgage/bank statement.

Original documents must be produced.

You must register your child in only one school, either the denominational or non-denominational school for your area.

If you want your child to go to a different school you will also need to make a placing request. Your catchment school will give you the form to fill in when you register.

If you need information on schools for your area, please telephone 0300 300 0170.

Inverclyde Bin Collection

Renfrewshire Bin Collection

Regular day of collection

Revised day of collection

Regular day of collection

Revised day of collection

Mon 26 Dec

Tues 27 Dec

Thur 22 Dec

No change to collection day

Tue 27 Dec

Wed 28 Dec

Fri 23 Dec

No change to collection day

Wed 28 Dec

Thur 29 Dec

Sat 24 Dec

No change to collection day

Thu 29 Dec

Fri 30 Dec

Fri 30 Dec

Sat 31 Dec

Sun 25 Dec

Please put your bin our for collection on Thursday 22 December

Mon 26 Dec

No change to collection day

Mon 2 Jan 2017 Tue 3 Jan Tues 3 Jan

Wed 4 Jan

Wed 4 Jan

Thur 5 Jan

Thur 5 Jan

Fri 6 Jan

Fri 6 Jan

Sat 7 Jan

If our services are disrupted because of bad weather, please put your bins out by 7am for collection on the day indicated in the table and we will collect them as soon as possible.

Tues 27 Dec No change to collection day Wed 28 Dec

No change to collection day

Thur 29 Dec

No change to collection day

Fri 30 Dec

No change to collection day

Sat 31 Dec

No change to collection day

Sun 1 Jan 2017 Please put your bin our for collection

on Thursday 29 December Mon 2 Jan

No change to collection day

ADVERTISING sales & wants ad rates:

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

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

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

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Delta Electrical Services . . 35 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Architectural Services

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 39

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Automotive Services

Fencing Firewood & Logs

AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . 29 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 29

Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 35 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Bathrooms

Funeral Services

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

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 28 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 13

Bedrooms

Garden Service & Design

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

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 39

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 18 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 8 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 49

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 22

Care Services & Homes Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 33

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 22

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

Driving Instructors AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14

Education Rugby Tots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 52

Garage Doors & Gates Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 46 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 44 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 46 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 44 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 45 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 45 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 45 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 45 West of Scotland Landscape . . 47

Gas & Heating Services A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 36 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 3 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

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

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 34 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 35

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 34 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 2 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 22 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 39 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Lauras Nail & Beauty . . . . . . . ,9 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 9 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 16 Rugby Tots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Wellcentred UK . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Home Hardware Gibb Stuart .... ... ... . 14,15,30,31

Home Improvements

Property, Sales & Let

Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 7 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 25 Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 23 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,21 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Home Interiors

@ease Removals & Transport . . 3 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3

Home Security Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 6

Joiners A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 CM Carpentry & Flooring . . . . 4 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 18 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37

Leisure & Recreation Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 55

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Painters & Decorators David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 14 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Pest Control RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 7

Pet Services & Training PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 42 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 42 Walkies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Photographers Little Studio Kilmacolm . . . . 51

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 6 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 18 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15

Plumbers A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 36 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 3 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Removals Restaurant & Bars Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 33

Retail Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 11 Gibb Stuart . ... ... ..... 14,15,30,31 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 6 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 8 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 49

Solicitors Affinity Family Law Experts . . 27 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

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

Stoves Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 27 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 29 Minicoach Tours Scotland Ltd . . 41

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 45

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 8 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 39

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

@ease Removals & Transport . . 3 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 46 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 . . 27 Affluent Financial Planning . . 22 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14 Alexander Barr Coal Merchant . . 11 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 46 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . 29 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 34 Auldton Stoves . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 33 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 2 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 6 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 6 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 36 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 2 Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 14 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 7 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 CM Carpentry & Flooring . . . . 4 Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 23 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,21 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 44 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Delta Electrical Services . . 35 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 8 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 2 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 45 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 22 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 14 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 44 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart ... ... ... ... 14,15,30,31 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 44 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 29 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 3 Ian Livingston Decorating . . 14 Ideal Flooring Service . . . . . 7

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 27 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 18 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 13 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 29 KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 39 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 15 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 22 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Lauras Nail & Beauty . . . . . . . ,9 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Little Studio Kilmacolm . . . . 51 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 45 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14 MattVac Carpet & Upholstery Cl . . Bk MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 8 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 39 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 35 Minicoach Tours Scotland Ltd . . 41 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 9 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 35 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 16 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 41 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 25 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 39 Pacific Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 45 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 7 Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Rugby Tots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 42 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 32 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 52 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 55 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 42 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 37 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3 The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 49 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Walkies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Wellcentred UK . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 West of Scotland Landscape . . 47 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

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January 2017 No.268

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