283 April 2018 - Gryffe Advertizer

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April 2018 No.283 Suffolk sheep at the Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow show by Bill Crookston

No. 283

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April 2018

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your LOCAL community magazine

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May ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 13 th April • Delivery: 24 th April With Spring now here, this is the time of year for cleaning driveways, patios etc., ready for the Summer. If you are thinking of having your driveway cleaned then it is crucial it’s done correctly to prevent problems in future.

If there are a lot of weeds these should be treated before jet-washing and after a high-pressure industrial clean that removes dirt, moss and a little sand, it is critical to re-sand with kiln-dried sand, a Biocidal treatment will then resist future growths. Give us a call for free friendly information on this service or for a free quotation.

June ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 18 th May • Delivery: 29 th May

This month

Weather-wise

Did I really say, “I’ll be looking out the barbeque and dusting down the garden chairs”? Maybe a little overly optimistic. I signed off last month basking in warm sunshine and within the week we had 40cm of snow! I’ll try to avoid any weather predictions in this column.

Although staying with the snow theme for a moment, how lucky were those folks who live in the villages which still have a variety of local retailers. I am sure the local traders enjoyed a welcome surge in business during the few days of crisis. Hopefully those of us lucky enough to have this facility will continue to support them for more of our day to day shopping. Remember, they rely on this trade to keep going - it’s also a very sociable activity as a wee trip to the shops can involve a number of conversations.

Thank you to the team of roads department workers and local farmers who were out in the worst of weather trying to keep access open for traffic.

Especially the farmers, as they don’t get a day off when it snows, farming and livestock is a 24-7 operation, yet they were out at all hours ploughing the snow off the roads. And a big thank you to the team of 4x4 drivers volunteering to go out and ferry the essential workers to and from their places of work. Thank you all.

Something in the air Glasgow Airport is in the process of a public consultation on proposals to modernise our airspace. This will entail new routes for take-off, landings will remain the same. Basically this means you may end up with planes directly overhead when previously you enjoyed your surroundings undisturbed. A consultation document is available to download at… https://www.glasgowairport.com/media/244297/Glasgow-Airport_AirspaceConsultationDocument_.pdf.

It sets out in detail what is being proposed and how you can take part in the consultation. Submissions close on Friday 13th April 2018.

Kilmacolm’s History A Heritage Centre for Kilmacolm is now a reality. This is a project which has been a long time in planning, but finally coming to a successful conclusion and should be open in the next few weeks. The top floor of the Kilmacolm Community Centre will exhibit a series of wall hangings depicting the history of Kilmacolm and its surroundings. I’ve had a sneak preview and it looks fabulous.

Coming Events This year’s Paisley Food & Drink Festival runs from Friday 27th to Saturday 28th April when the very best of Scotland’s producers will showcase their wares to visitors in Paisley’s iconic Abbey Close. With tasting sessions, street food vendors, interactive workshops, live music and Scotland’s largest real ale festival.

There are a number of village events planned for the coming months.

Some of these date back many years and are steeped in history, others are more recent additions to the calendar. They run like clockwork weather permitting. All thanks to a small army of volunteers who give their time to gather in the wee dark hours of the winter to plan, organise and fundraise.

These various Galas and Fetes are always looking for volunteers. In particular Lochwinnoch Gala, which may not proceed this year if help isn’t found. If you feel you can lend a hand then please contact the various groups highlighted in the Village Section this month. Your involvement will be rewarding for yourself and the community, so why not become a part of your local community and offer your services.

Rona

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Contents

local news............................................................. 4-13 optical blog.............................................................. 10 dental blog............................................................... 13 what’s on.............................................................14-21 finance & tech.....................................................22-25 financial blog........................................................... 22 IT blog....................................................................... 22 legal blog.................................................................. 25 pet news..............................................................26-27 pet blog..................................................................... 26 outdoors..............................................................28-33 village news.........................................................34-45 school news.........................................................46-51 sport news...........................................................52-54 sporting blog............................................................ 54 local history.............................................................. 55 business classified.................................................. 56 sales & wants........................................................... 57 advertizer directory................................................. 58 deadlines dates........................................................ 58 pick up a copy.......................................................... 58 on the road............................................................... 59

Contact us 1st Floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN t: 01505 613340 m: 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk w: www.advertizer.co.uk @GryffeAds Open Tuesday to Thursday 9am-4pm; Friday 9am-12:30pm All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.

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Big Vern ‘n’ The Shootahs To Headline Lilifest!

Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs have been announced as the headline act for this year’s Lilifest – a programme of events and activities that will once again form part of this years’ Kilbarchan’s Lilias Day Celebrations.

Described as one of the UK’s biggest and hottest live bands the sensational Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs will perform a unique and intimate live show at the wonderful Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre on Thursday 31st May. With their Classic funk, soul and party music mixed with some great stage routines Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs are a renowned 9 piece musical powerhouse who have been entertaining audiences at venues and festivals all over the UK for more than 2 decades.

Band-member Malcolm Button says the band are relishing their first visit to Kilbarchan to perform as part of Lilifest: “We love playing live and we are delighted to get the chance to spread our bands wings coming to the Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre for the first time. We have some close links with the village through a couple of the band members and when the chance came up, we couldn’t resist doing something for the community and helping raise funds for the Lilias Day Committee. It’s time for a great night out, everyone enjoys great live music and we’re just the band to put a smile on your face” Damon Scott, Lilifest Organiser adds: “We are delighted that we have a such a well-know and highly regarded band as Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs headlining the festival. Their reputation really does proceed them – they are a band that audiences never forget. Catch them while you can, this is a rare chance to see them play in smaller venue. You will not be disappointed!”

Tickets and more information is available online at liliasday. co.uk / ticketsscotland.com or in person from Bobbins, Kilbarchan.

Bring Your Own Bottle!

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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.

Travelling the World and the World of Work Members of Soroptimist International of Paisley started off 2018 with speakers on two completely different topics.

Entrepreneur Poonam Gupta, an enthusiastic and positive young woman, talked to members about how she had built a business from scratch after coming from India to live in Scotland. After explaining a bit about her background where women are expected to remain in the home, she talked about what gave her the incentive to work and overcome obstacles including health problems and being either overqualified or under experienced!

She strongly believes that women should have economic independence, make the most of their education and be ambitious. Having built a successful international business, she now mentors other women who are looking for help as well as working with and supporting a number of charities providing support for women and children.

She said that what women bring to a country, not only improves the lives of them and their families, but contributes to the wider good.

Members then moved from the world of work to the world of international travel, when Vivienne Macdonald from Beith entertained and informed us with images from her travels – there is hardly a country in the world that she has not been to. Using amazing photos, she took us from the west coast of Scotland with its stunning scenery to Iran, a fascinating country with astonishing buildings, via the Victoria Falls in Zambia.

Completely different topics, but very interesting as well as stimulating.

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Don’t forget . . .

1st April - Easter Sunday

Paisley Food & Drink Festival On Friday 27 and Saturday 28 of April the very best of Scotland’s producers will showcase their wares to visitors in Paisley’s iconic Abbey Close, where they can experience tasting sessions with the likes of Gin71 as well as a fantastic selection of street food vendors from the pit, interactive workshops, live music and Scotland’s largest real ale festival.

The Friday evening will see Gin71 run one of their popular gin tasting sessions and visitors can also relax at The Rum Shack Glasgow’s bar and enjoy some acoustic live music.

The Saturday offers a real festival atmosphere with delicious dishes on offer from the likes of Three Sisters Bake, the ever popular Farmers’ Market and an eclectic mix of street food vendors. Smaller portion sizes for children and a range of halal, gluten free, veggie and vegan options will be on offer and visitors will also be able to sample a wide range of craft beers, small batch gins and prosecco on tap from Fizzbuz Valentino the prosecco van.

Cooking demonstrations will take place with a celebrity chef, who will be announced soon, to allow visitors to learn the best tricks of the trade and children will have the opportunity to get some hands-on foodie-fun experiences. There will also be a live music entertainment and giant lawn games providing all the ingredients for a great day out.

Kids can pop along and say ‘Ello!’ with Mr Bloom’s Nursery Live. There will be a bundle of veggie stories, gardening games, and catchy nursery songs, a famous aubergine once said; “Let’s sing and dance and have some fun!”

The festival will run alongside the Paisley Beer Festival which will take place from Wednesday 25 to Saturday 28 April run by the Renfrewshire branch of the CAMRA - the Campaign for Real Ale, the consumer’s champion, which attracts people from all over Scotland and beyond.

Paisley’s Food and Drink Festival really is a fantastic showcase of Scotland’s vibrant street food scene, with the very best seasonal ingredients and sustainably sourced and hand reared produce – you would be nuts to miss it! Visit www.paisley.is for more information.

SYT threat of closure now lifted In January this year, Scottish Youth Theatre learned that they had not been successful in their application for regular funding from Creative Scotland for the period 2018-21. This represented a gap of around a third of their required income.

After the news from Creative Scotland, SYT worked on many business models, a variety of cost cutting exercises and discussed how to better collaborate to share costs and resources with like-minded organisations. However sadly, without a realistic expectation that they would be successful in securing financial support in such a limited time to meet the significant funding gap, the SYT announced that they were left with no other realistic option but to cease trading on 31st July 2018.

However, the threat of closure of Scottish Youth Theatre has been lifted thanks to The Scottish Government offer to match-fund pledges of financial support from the private sector, including investment management firm, Baillie Gifford & Co. With this joint backing, the organisation has a foundation on which to achieve a long-term sustainable business model.

SYT will engage with experts from across the cultural and business sectors to build a model that is accessible and sustainable. The significant pledge of support from Baillie Gifford has enabled SYT to develop a funding partnership with the Scottish Government which allows the company to continue to deliver life-changing live arts experiences for young people in Scotland. SYT also welcome the offer from Creative Scotland to explore alternative funding routes.

Jacky Hardacre, Scottish Youth Theatre’s Chief Executive stated, “With a future now secured for Scottish Youth Theatre, our focus is firmly on ensuring the nation’s young people have their own thriving national theatre company to engage with, be inspired by and to aspire to be a part of.”

“We would also like to acknowledge the continuing support of the youth arts sector who will be important partners in the coming months. A heartfelt thank you to them all.”

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30th Anniversary Beauty Party Join Jacquie and her team from Decorus at their BEAUTY PARTY to celebrate 30 years in Kilmacolm.

The event will take place on the evening of Friday 27th April 2018 in the Community Centre, Kilmacolm. Tickets are £25 (£15 redeemable against a Clarins purchase). We will have some wonderful raffle prizes and everyone receives a Clarins gift. Contact Decorus for tickets (limited availability) on 01505 873636.

Decorus of Kilmacolm was set up 30 years ago by Jacquie McBride, and over that time has been providing Clarins Professional Beauty Therapy for Kilmacolm and the surrounding areas. The salon has developed from a small beauty room to the business it is today and Jacquie and her staff are always developing their treatments to maintain a high standard for their clients. This, of course, has only been achieved by listening to their clients’ needs and keeping up-to-date with their skills and with what is out there and new. The salon is one of only four Scottish Clarins Gold Salons and stocks the full range of Clarins products.

Decorus provides a range of beauty therapies such as manicures, pedicures, waxing, massage, eye enhancement and also holistic treatments like aromatherapy and reflexology. To complement the full range of beauty treatments the salon provides a range of treatments by Clarins using their wonderful products for face and body. Clarins train all the salon staff and regularly update their products to ensure quality and maximum benefit for the client.

To supplement our face and body range we also provide the full range of Jessica professional nail care products, including Bio-Sculpture Gel coatings, Minx nail art products and the fabulous hard wearing Geleration. All of these products improve the nails and last for a minimum of 3 weeks.

Caci Non-surgical Lift for Face & Body is something the salon has been providing for the last 20 years which improves contours as well as confidence. And not to forget the gents, for today’s man the salon also provides the excellent range of Clarins Men’s face and body products.

More and more of today’s men are caring for their skin in a professional manner, to that end we also provide facials etc. to the discerning man.

Call Decorus on 01505 873636 to discuss which treatment is right for you.

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Renfrewshire’s Inspiring Community

Rotary Youth

Renfrewshire has honoured dedicated groups and volunteers for their work in the community at the Provost’s Community Awards took place last month.

Youth Speaks competition

Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron was joined by comperè Gina McKie at the Glynhill Hotel in Renfrew to help celebrate the achievements of devoted community members who give their all to make Renfrewshire a better place to live.

The awards categories were split across six categories this year and included an inaugural Arts and Culture award, introduced to recognise the incredible cultural resurgence in the area in recent times.

The recipients of this year’s awards were: ● Arts and Culture (sponsored by Renfrewshire Council) – Evelyn Laurie ● Carer’s Award (sponsored by former Provost Nancy Allison) – Ruairidh Clark ● Community Group (sponsored by the Piazza Shopping Centre, Paisley) – Renfrewshire Foodbank ● Community Volunteer (sponsored by Glasgow Airport Ltd) – Margaret Mullen ● Employer of the Year (sponsored by UNISON Renfrewshire) – RAMH ● Sporting Achievement (sponsored by Acre Industrial Services Ltd) – Mark Fulton Provost Cameron said: “This is my first Community Awards in my role as Provost and I feel privileged to be able to present these awards to the fantastic community members who were chosen as the winners… These awards afford the opportunity to honour those people and groups who go above and beyond the call of duty without expecting anything in return. Each winner was completely deserving of their award and I hope they can inspire the rest of Renfrewshire to be the best community member they can be.”

The Provost’s Community Awards were first established in 1997 by former Provost Nancy Allison, who continues to sponsor the Carers Award today.

For more information on the Provost’s Community Awards, visit www.renfrewshire.gov. uk/provostawards.

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St Columba’s public speaking team, Mark Connolly, Finlay Cooper and Eilidh McCrudden (SV), won the West of Scotland finals of the Rotary Youth Speaks competition in Glasgow.

Their discussion on the power of music generated much positive feedback with the judges commenting that “they were in a different league” and their outstanding performance also prompted an audience member to get in touch with the school to say, “I found the team extremely impressive, both in their presentation and in private conversation afterwards. All three are excellent ambassadors for the school and you have every reason to be proud of them.”

At the subsequent regional finals (Scotland and NE England) in Dundee on 11th March they were up against a “much improved” team from St Aloysius’ College but performed even better and came out worthy winners. Well done!

The Gryffe Valley Primary School Quiz This event was held on Monday 12th March at the British Legion Club, Bridge of Weir. Houston, St Fillan’s, Bridge of Weir and St Columba’s Junior Schools participated in front of a large audience of parents and friends. St Columba’s ran out winners of an exciting contest well organised by the Youth Services Committee.

Gryffe Valley Young Writer Judging is underway for the competition - All the usual primary and secondary schools were invited to take part. The title for the young people is ‘A Different Perspective.’

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New Tartan Marks Landmark for Scottish Charity

Musical Lunch at St Columba’s School

St. Vincent’s Hospice have continued to mark their 30th Anniversary year with the unveiling of their official tartan.

Sunday 15th April, St Columba’s School, Gryffe Rd, Kilmacolm at 12.30pm for 1pm

Created by Houston Kiltmakers and listed on the Scottish Register of Tartans (number: 12069), it is a unique blend of the Hospice’s official colours, celebrating the history and legacy of care that St. Vincent’s has provided the community for 30 years.

The artistes will be “Angel Voices”, St Columba’s Pipe band and vocalists Mark and Daniella Hathaway.

Since opening their doors in 1988, St. Vincent’s Hospice has provided specialist palliative and end of life care for individuals and families affected by life limiting conditions across Renfrewshire, caring for hundreds every year.

Planning is underway for a Musical Lunch, in aid of 500 miles - a charity set up to help amputees in Malawi and Zambia be fitted with artificial limbs.

Tickets (which include a two course Carvery lunch and a welcome drink) are available at £27.50 from www.gryffevalley.rotary1230.org.

Chief Executive, Kate Lennon, said: “We wanted something really special that not only celebrates the heritage and history of everything we have accomplished over the last 30 years, but marks a new chapter in our development. The tartan is absolutely perfect and we owe Houston’s a huge thanks for this fantastic gesture and all their hard work.

“Three decades ago, St. Vincent’s opened its doors for the first time, to help care for some of the most vulnerable in our community. Since that time, it has taken countless hours of hard work, dedication and support from staff, volunteers and members of the community to allow us to accomplish more than we had dared imagine in the early days. This tartan is a recognition of all of that, and we hope that people will wear the St. Vincent’s Tartan with pride as we prepare for the next 30 years and beyond.”

Ken MacDonald from Houston’s Kiltmaker’s commented saying: “We are very proud of our commitment to supporting local charities, and are delighted that we were able to help St. Vincent’s celebrate this special occasion. Using their official colours, we created a design that is unique to the Hospice and will let you show your support for all the amazing work they do with style and tradition.”

The official Tartan of St. Vincent’s Hospice is now available, and can be worn in a variety of materials and styles. For more information, visit www. kiltmakers.com or to support St. Vincent’s, visit: www.SVH.co.uk.

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RAMH 40th Anniversary Dinner and Quiz Normandy Hotel, Inchinnan Rd, Renfrew.

It’s a huge year for RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) with the recent announcement that they had been voted as the Renfrewshire Employer of the Year. Celebrations don’t end there though as RAMH will also be celebrating its 40th Anniversary this May. They are marking the occasion by hosting a fundraising 40th Anniversary Dinner and Quiz at the Normandy Hotel on 25th May. The event is proudly sponsored by University of the West of Scotland and RAMH are delighted to secure Vanessa Collingridge as the evening’s host. Guests will enjoy a fizz reception, 3 course meal followed by a raffle and auction.

This year RAMH aims to raise £20,000 which will be used to provide the vital mental health services RAMH offers.

RAMH are thrilled to have secured a Jaguar for the weekend courtesy of Taggarts as the star auction prize. Stephen McLellan, Chief Executive of RAMH said “We are delighted that Taggart Jaguar have offered to provide such a wonderful prize for our 40th Anniversary Quiz and Dinner on May 25th. This is possibly the most prestigious prize we have ever received, which is poignant, because Jaguar is equally one of the most prestigious vehicle brands. This will attract positive attention to the work of RAMH and we are thrilled to be associated with Taggarts as a result”.

Other prizes include a Luxury Lodge on the banks of Loch Lomond, Afternoon Tea vouchers, signed football merchandise and Virgin train tickets for a journey of your choice. A special thanks also goes to Arnold Clark for their donation as well as Stafffinders Paisley who recently nominated RAMH as their charity of the year.

If you would like to attend RAMH’s 40th Anniversary Dinner and Quiz, Tickets are still on sale, priced at £400 for a team of 10. Individual tickets are available as well, for further information or to book please contact enquires@ ramh.org or call 0141 847 8900. Sponsorship opportunities are also still available please call the above number for more details.

Sailing Club’s Funding Success Castle Semple Sailing Club has recently been successful in its application to Awards for All/ Big Lottery for funding for a new safety craft. The new boat has been ordered and should be with us by mid April. Many thanks to the Big Lottery for making this award to us.

The Club has also recently been successful in its application to Flightpath for funds towards the purchase of a second-hand RS Vision. It is intended that the boat will be available for use by families, cadets and adults. Many thanks to Flightpath for awarding us this funding. Our club is delighted with this fantastic funding.

Optical Blog

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians

Could artificial intelligence be the key to a cure for macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the main cause of sight loss in the developed world and it can leave sufferers and their families feeling isolated and uncertain about the future.

By 2020, it is predicted almost 700,000 people will have late-stage AMD in the UK. Age-related macular degeneration usually causes a gradual loss of vision, however, in some cases vision loss can be very sudden. Symptoms of AMD may include fuzziness or distortion in your central vision.

Regular eye tests are essential for older patients as the early signs of AMD can usually be detected by an optician before symptoms occur.

However, a cure for AMD could be on the horizon as a group of UK charities have recently announced a partnership with an artificial intelligence company to help find new treatments and research into a potential cure for AMD. Action Against AMD has been formed by the charities Fight for Sight, the Macular Society, Blind Veterans UK and Scottish War Blinded to generate more funding for research into AMD, and to develop treatments to prevent people losing their sight from the condition.

If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with AMD or any other type of macular condition, the Macular Society can offer help and support in various ways. They can provide information on living guides, gadgets and technology to assist you with everyday tasks that you or your loved one may find frustrating or challenging. They should also be able to recommend local groups that will help you to understand your condition, come to terms with sight loss, share information about treatment and help you to remain independent.

For more information, please contact us at the practice on 01505 614700.

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Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Show The 183rd Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show will take place in the spectacular setting of the Knapps Loch on Saturday 12th May from 9am.

There will be hundreds of entries in our wide range of classes - sheep, cows, horses (light and heavy), children’s cattle, and dogs.

A very popular part of the Show is the Children’s Pet Show. Kids 16 years and under can bring your wee pet along - everyone gets a prize! Pets must be entered by 11am on the day of the show, but no cats or dogs are allowed.

The Industrial Tent will showcase the domestic arts, crafts and baking by adults and children. Entry forms and fees must be submitted by Friday 11th May.

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in the main ring, including the fantastic St Columba’s School Pipe Band, May Hughes School of Dance, a Gun Dog Scurry and a Dog Agility Display Team. The entertainment starts at 12noon and ends at 4 with the Prize Draw so make sure you get your tickets on show day!

There will be sheep shearing and cow milking demonstrations throughout the afternoon near the main ring. Throughout the Showground, you will find exhibitions and fair rides, food, trade and refreshment stands, a catering tent, and a bar. There is also a prize draw with some fabulous prizes which helps to fund the Show each year.

This is great day out for the whole family - human and hairy!

More information, schedules and online entry for Light Horses are available on the website www.KilmacolmShow.co.uk We are on facebook, twitter and instagram

There will be a dog show for all hairy hounds dogs do not need to be KC registered and entries are taken on showday from 10.30 at the Dog Ring.

Light Horse classes, including cross country, showjumping, showing and games, will run all day and entries can be made on showday at the Horse Tent at double the fees shown in the schedule.

Light Horse classes can be entered online at www. kilmacolmshow. co.uk at normal fees until Friday 4th May. Schedules and entry forms for all classes can be downloaded from the website - www. kilmacolmshow. co.uk.

There will be lots of family enter tainment

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Agricultural Land Wanted

Masquerade Ball raises £43,000 for Patient Care

For Glasshouse Horticulture Approximately 2 to 5 acres of land required for a small plant nursery. Prime quality, agricultural land not essential but any potential plot must be level to a certain degree, allowing construction of glasshouses.

Land considered should be between Bridge of Weir and Inchinnan/Renfrew. Anything considered. Contact: Ewen 07955 743790 or ewenx19@btinternet.com

Article Submissions First of all, thank you very much to everyone who sends in their articles for The Advertizer. Each month we have plenty to choose from and, while we try to include as much as we can, some need to be cut back due to space restrictions.

To make things easier for the little elves in the office, could we please ask if articles are submitted as text within the email. Ideally, articles should be no longer than 300 words, but we do appreciate that sometimes it is necessary for more to get your message across and will accommodate if we can.

And if sending in photographs, please send these as separate attachments to your email. If they are sent within a word document, we are unable to extract these to the high quality required for a good reproduction in print. These can be sent as JPG or PDF files, and 300dpi resolution is best, resized to within 8cm boundaries.

If in any doubt, please call or email the office and the elves will be happy to advise you!

A sellout crowd of distinguished guests, including Provost Martin Brennan, enjoyed a fantastic night of entertainment at Greenock Town Hall on Saturday 10th March, when broadcaster Suzie McGuire hosted the Ardgowan Hospice Masquerade Ball sponsored by Specsavers Greenock.

The highlight of this year’s event was the grand auction, run by Brian Clements of McTear’s auctioneers in Glasgow, which, along with the silent auction, raffle and other fundraising elements on the night, helped the event generate an amazing £43,000.

The event included a heartfelt speech from Brendan Donnachie. He talked eloquently about the level care his father Joe received at the hospice and how the clinical and nursing staff helped support his family and made their days with their father special. The monies raised at the ball will give 72 days of dedicated patient care in the In-Patient unit to other families in Inverclyde. It could also fund 267 home visits from one of our Specialist Community Nurses – that’s daily visits for almost nine months. This gives patients and their families and carers practical, emotional and physical support in the comfort of their own home.

This is a fantastic result and Lesley Brown from new headline sponsors Specsavers Greenock said, “We had a fabulous night at the Masquerade Ball and are so proud that we’re able to support a local cause to achieve these great results.”

As well as headline sponsorship, Specsavers contributed two lots for the silent auction: his and hers designer glasses, including lenses. The ball was supported by many other local businesses including Golden Casket who provided delicious chocolates for all guests and a silent auction lot of a hamper of Millions sweets. The live auction was again hosted by Brian Clements of McTear’s Auctioneers, who also sponsored the event.

Ian Marshall, Acting CEO, added: “This event demonstrates the amount of community support from individuals and local businesses to the work we do to provide services to people and their families living with life limiting conditions across Inverclyde. The hospice needs to raise over two-thirds of its everyday costs and the ball is one of the ways we help to continue to fund services. We thank all the attendees and supporters for their kindness and genuine support.”

Big Thanks for Passing on your Musical Instruments Thanks for the great response from local people, schools, nurseries and organisations to ‘Pass it on week’ in March. We’ve had violins, electric guitars, clarinets, drum kits, pianos and harmonicas handed into St Vincent’s Hospice Shops, LEAP Offices, schools and RAMH Re-use superstore.

Our photo for Pass It On Week shows donated guitars already being put to good use at free guitar lesson for kids with Nico Guitariste.

And although Pass It On Week is over if anyone has any instruments or equipment to donate they can contact Jen directly through email: info@ musicbroth.org, Tel:07990638610 or drop any instruments into LEAP. Visit our Facebook page for more photos and updates - www.facebook. com/myleapproject

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april 2018

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Dental Blog

13

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, Kilbarchan Dental Practice

How to use an Electric Toothbrush I am a big fan of electric toothbrushes as they are proven to remove 100% more plaque than traditional manual toothbrushes if used correctly! To help you get the most out of them we’ve put together our top tips: 1. Remember the brushing action is very different from that of a manual toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes oscillate and rotate at high speed so you simply need to guide the brush head to the areas that need cleaning.

2. Make sure your toothbrush is charged, there is nothing worse than running out of power half-way through and most have indicators to let you know if your charge is low.

3. Use a fluoride toothpaste on a dry brush and hold the brush at a 45 degree angle as you would a manual toothbrush.

4. Start with the outside surfaces of the teeth. Guide the brush head slowly from tooth to tooth, holding the brush head in place for a few seconds against each tooth before moving on to the next one. Follow along with the shape of each tooth and the curve of the gums.

5. Repeat on the inside surfaces of the teeth and on the chewing surfaces of the teeth as well as behind the back teeth. Don’t press too hard –some of the better brushes have a pressure sensor to warn you if you do!

6. Brush for a minimum of 2 minutes – most have built in timers and usually vibrate at 30 second intervals so you can focus on a quarter of your mouth at a time.

7. Brush your tongue gently from back to front to get rid of even more bacteria.

8. Spit rather than rinse when you have finished.

9. Remember to brush at least twice a day and replace the brush head at least every 3 months.

If you have any queries about any area of dental health please come and see us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice.

Alternatively, you can call us on 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free advice and reviews of electric toothbrushes.

You can view the current issue as well as previous issues of the magazine online. www.advertizer.co.uk/issues

A Place for Hope Easter is the key event in the Christian year, but do you know or could you say why? Most of us are happy that the days are getting longer, nature is springing back to life and temperatures are slowly rising (well, trying to rise).

However, Easter is not just an annual excuse for eating excessive amounts of chocolate and celebrating spring, enjoyable though that is.

The reason that Christians around the world celebrate Easter is because the first Easter day, reminds them there is hope in a dark world. Christians believe that after a very dark series of events where Jesus of Nazareth was betrayed, arrested, put through an unfair trial, tortured, and finally killed on a cross, a Roman instrument of execution, he was raised to new life after 3 days in the grave.

Jesus’ resurrection from the dead means that death does not have the last word – it is an enemy defeated. The Bible promises that those who died with Christ will be raised with Christ to the life of the age to come.

Jesus’ resurrection also means that his teaching and his ministry, his claim to be the Saviour and King of Israel and of the world, was vindicated. As such he has a claim over all of our lives.

And finally his resurrection means that he is still alive today and present with us through his Holy Spirit.

So what was a very dark moment in history, where evil did its worst on a truly good and innocent man, was turned into a victory over evil and darkness.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ means there is hope for a world full of darkness and death. Why not come to church this Easter to celebrate this hope and new life and explore and experience it for yourself?

Rev Hanneke Marshall Minister of St Machar’s Ranfurly Church, Bridge of Weir.

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28th M

arCh

Gateway Garden Free Drop In Session

Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan All welcome to visit for a relaxing time, with the option to join in easy gardening and bird feeding activities and to bring your gardening questions to our experts. For more information contact 07952 169341 or hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

thu

29th M

arCh

Gryffe Manor Nursery, The Butts, Houston Road, Houston 7pm (formerly known as Woodlands Day Nursery, Houston). All welcome and there’s even a fabulous raffle taking place alongside all of the other fruitful stalls!

30th M

Kilmacolm Guide Hut 7.30pm We warmly invite you and your family to a Good Friday Service - you will be made very welcome. For more details please contact: gracechurchkilmacolm@gmail.com

   Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 5pm Summer hours begin, enjoy the fresh air, stop for a coffee and or appreciate the beautiful countryside. WHERE: All Visitor Centres until the end of September WHEN: Castle Semple 10am – 5pm daily Muirshiel and Greenock Cut 11am – 4pm at weekends & public holidays.

31St M

arCh

Habitat Boxes

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 1pm to 3pm Build your own bird house to take home.

More info.: Details & bookings online or t 01457 521458.

31St M

ar

1

- Sun St april

Easter Entertainment

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 1.30pm to 3.30pm Easter egg painting at Muirshiel Country Park and a drop in quiz along the Castle Semple lochshore. WHERE: Castle Semple and Muirshiel WHEN: 1.30pm – 3.30pm More info.: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882.

pril

   The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 1pm to 3pm Join the Countryside Rangers to take part in Easter Craft activities such as egg decorating, hunting and rolling. For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01457 521458. £5

MOn

2ND a

pril

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join the Rangers for all things chocolate with Easter themed games!

MOn

2ND - F 6th a ri

pril

Junior Multi Activity Weeks

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch A full week of activities for 8-15 yr olds to get active, learn new skills and make new friends, on land and water! Get 6 or more children together and book your own course. For more info.: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £160

MOn

2ND - t 3RD a uE

RYA Dinghy Stage 1

pril

Bird Feeder Making with RSPB Home for Nature

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Make a bird feeder with our Rangers. £2 for materials. Pre-booking advised.

WED

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join the Rangers for Easter games. Bring your painted egg and roll it down the hill. Prizes for best fancy dress, best Easter bonnet and best painted egg.

pril

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 3.30pm Young sailors will have fun learning the basic skills of handling and steering a boat. For more info.: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £85

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1St a

Easter Games

Summer’s Here!

Sat

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Take part in our special Easter Bunny Hunt. A small prize for completing this event.

Easter Crafts

arCh

Good Friday Service

Sat

arCh

Easter Bunny Hunt

Sun

3RD a

tuE

31St M

Easter Sunday Funday

Spring Craft Fayre

Fri

Sat

4th a

pril

Gryffe SCD Club Kilbarchan

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 7.30pm Charity Scottish Country Dance in aid of Mary’s Meals with Supper and Raffle Music by the Marian Anderson Duo. If you love Scottish Country Dancing and music, come along and join in - a super evening of lively dancing with a well known programme of dances. Information, tickets and programme from:- Les Lambert 01505 704398. £7

   Embroiderers Guild, Bridge of Weir Branch

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 7.30pm Lynn Dunachie proves that stitching isn’t a lonely hobby, as she tells us of her first-hand experience of some of the biggest public stitching projects in Scotland, including Prestonpans, the Great Tapestry of Scotland and the Scottish Diaspora. Visitors are most welcome. For more information contact egallaher@btinternet.com

thu

5th a

pril

Bird Box Making

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join the Rangers making bird boxes, £4 to take it home. Pre-booking essential.

Outlook

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm NHS Heartstart with Dr Morag Thow.

Fri

6th a

pril

Tag-N’-Track - An illustrated talk

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm Hayley Douglas will deliver a talk entitled’ Tag-N’- Track using technology to track wildlife in Clyde Muirshiel Park’. All welcome.

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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Sat

7th a

MOn

pril

Paisley Abbey Recital

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 12.30pm Graeme Scott - Organ (former Assistant Organist of Paisley Abbey and Bryanston School, Dorset). Cloister Cafe will be open from 10am with baking. £5 at the door

   Concert by Auld Hats New Heids

Old Library Centre, 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan They played a very entertaining gig last year to a sell out audience. Tickets are £12 each, phone, email or come into the centre to book your tickets. Contact: 01505 706070, email kipcokil@hotmail.com or visit our website www.kipcokil.com

   Guild Annual Spring Fayre

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 10am to 12.30pm All welcome.

   Kilmacolm Bowling Club Opens

Kilmacolm Bowling Club, Castle Hill Road, Kilmacolm All members of kindred clubs are welcome to attend. Further information on 01505 874239.

Sat

7th - S 8th a un

pril

Bird Ringing Demonstration

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Calder Glen Road, Lochwinnoch 10.30am to 3.30pm Find out how we Tag-n-Track some of the bird species in the Park. For more Info: t 01505 614791 during office hours.

Sun

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

8th a

pril

Duck Race

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Pick your lucky duck and follow it down the stream to see who wins. Prizes to be won!

   Art and Crafts at Kip Marina

Kip Marina, The Yacht Harbour, Inverkip, PA16 0AS 11am to 4.30pm Art and Crafts in The Chartroom. 12 artists and makers, supporting prostate cancer research.

   Map and Compass Course

9th - F 13th a ri

pril

Junior Multi Activity Weeks

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch A full week of activities for 8-15 yr olds to get active, learn new skills and make new friends, on land and water! Get 6 or more children together and book your own course. For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £160.

MOn

9th - t 10th a uE

pril

Paddlepower Passport

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 3.30pm With four progressive levels there is plenty for young paddlers to do. For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £84.

tuE

10th a

pril

Den Building

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join the Rangers and see who is a budding Bear Grylls.

WED

11th a

pril

Gateway Garden Free Drop In Session

Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan 2pm All welcome to visit for a relaxing time, with the option to join in easy gardening and bird feeding activities and to bring your gardening questions to our experts. For more information, contact 07952 169341 or hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

   School’s Out Family Fun

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 1pm to 3pm Spring has sprung…….have fun learning about Scotland’s wildlife! For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842 882

thu

12th a

pril

Sòlas Bereavement Group Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Sòlas Bereavement Group.

   Minibeast Hunt

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Six legs, eight legs, 100’s of Eyes, a tube to sip nectar or mandibles to rip prey, let’s catch some real mini monsters.

01505

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 10am to 4pm An ideal course for beginners or for those wanting to refresh their skills. For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £50.

15

ARE YOU PLANNING OR HAD AN EVENT? SEND IN THE DETAILS AND YOU COULD BE ON THESE VERY PAGES!

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april 2018

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12th - F 13th a ri

pril

RYA Dinghy Stage 2

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 3.30pm On completion of this course young sailors will be well on the way to being a confident small boat sailor. For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £85.

Fri

13th a

pril

Deadline for Submissions Glasgow Airport

Paisley - various venues Information on the airspace consultation, including how to respond, can be found at www.glasgowairport.com/airspace. Following the completion of the public consultation, Glasgow Airport will produce a final version of the Noise Action Plan document which will incorporate a record of responses and how they have been taken into account. Information on the Noise Action Plan can be found at www. glasgowairport.com/community/noise

Advertizer Issue Deadline

Paisley Abbey Recitals

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

Don’t miss out!

Sat

14th - S 15th un

april

RYA Dinghy Course Level 2

In Paisley Abbey at 12.30pm, with baking in the Cloister Café from 10am.

Saturday 7th April - Graeme Scott – Organ Former Assistant Organist of Paisley Abbey and Bryanston School, Dorset

Saturday 21st April - Abbey Strings Margo Smith & Catriona McGilvray – violins, Claire Griffi ths – viola, Priscilla Routley - cello.

Tickets £5 at the door.

Concert On Sunday 22nd April at 7.30pm, join the Paisley Abbey Choir with Mezzo Soprano – Pamela Hay, Baritone – Colin Murray, Bass Flute – Ewan Robertson and Conductor – George McPhee

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 9.30am to 4pm Adults can develop your basic skills and become a competent sailor in light winds.

For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01505 842882. £135.

   Sailability Regatta

Castle Semple Sailing Club Accessible sail training on Saturday, racing on Sunday, with thanks to assistance from Clyde Murishiel for their help in offering suitable changing facilities.

Sun

15th a

pril

Spring Scavenger Hunt

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join our Rangers to hunt for amazing natural wonders of Spring!

pril

Gateway Garden Free Drop In Session

Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan 1pm All welcome to visit for a relaxing time, with the option to join in easy gardening and bird feeding activities and to bring your gardening questions to our experts. For more information, contact 07952 169341 or hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

WED

pril

Dalgarven Mill Museum Of Country Life & Costume, 1 Dalry Rd, Kilwinning KA13 6PL 2pm Outing to Dalgarven Mill, the home of the Museum of Ayrshire Country Life and Costume.

If you would like to join us on a private visit, please contact egallaher@btinternet.com

19th a

pril

Outlook

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Cllr David Wilson.

Invitation to Christianity Explored

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm to 9pm Grace Church Kilmacolm invites you to find out more about Jesus, why he is important and what the Bible teaches. A 7-week course for everyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith over a cup of coffee and cake. All welcome. For more details please contact: gracechurchkilmacolm@gmail.com

thu

19th - F 20th a ri

pril

Early Years Nursery Assessments

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm St Columba’s Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4EQ Informal assessments for entry to Early Years - please contact Junior School for details on 01505 872768. www.st-columbas.org

Fri

20th a

pril

Comedy with John Archer

The River Inn, Houston Road, Houston Open to everyone! Comedy, Magic and more...

Check him out... www.john-archer.com Tables of 10 - Group bookings - Individual tickets John Archer will give a short testimony after his performance. Tickets from: Robin Livingstone 07765 938909, robinlivingstone@googlemail. com or Hamish Walker 07748 106322

The programme consists of Three Donne Lyrics by Edward McGuire (fi rst performance), Mass for Double choir by Frank Martin and Requiem by Maurice Durufl é.

Tickets £15, £5 (student) available from the Abbey Shop or at the door. Or by phone 0141 889 7654, info@paisleyabbey.org.uk www.paisleyabbey.org.uk Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) – Registered Charity No. SC007633

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18th a

Embroiderers Guild, Bridge of Weir Branch

thu

  

15th a

Sun

31st Paisley Beer Festival The 31st Paisley Beer Festival, and last for a while at Paisley Town Hall, takes place from 5pm on Wednesday 25th April through to 10pm on Saturday 28th April.

Still the biggest beer festival in Scotland, Paisley Beer Festival is a beer festival organised and run by the Renfrewshire branch of CAMRA and has been held in Paisley Town hall since 1986 (with a couple of exceptions!).

The festival will see over 250 beers from breweries in Scotland and the rest of the UK, covering a range of styles from pale hoppy ales through to darker stouts and porters. Whatever your taste, there will be a real ale for everyone.

And if real ale is not your thing, we also have a foreign beer bar bringing you beers from right across the globe along with our real cider bar and a wine bar.

Admission prices are £4 for CAMRA members and £6 for non-members. A commemorative Paisley Beer Festival beer glass is included in the admission price.

Remember the beer festival is completely run by volunteers, if you want to help out (we always need more help!) then please fi ll in a staffi ng form here: https:// www.paisleybeerfestival.co.uk/ volunteer

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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NEVER MISS A THING!

We keep an archive of all the featured blogs and you can view the current or old issues at advertizer.co.uk

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 14-21 NEW WHATS ON_283 APRIL18.indd 17

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21St a

pril

Freeland Messy Cafe

EVEry

MOnDay

Lochwinnoch Community Walk The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am

This event will not take place on public holidays.

FitSteps with Jennifer Quarrier’s Village, 6:30pm

Tel: 07709 340675 for further information

Pilates Class

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.

Kilellan Halls Houston 6.15 - 7.15 & 7.30 - 8.30.

Gateway Garden Drop In Sessions

Gryffe Voices Community Choir

Open Days with gardening and wildlife activities on offer. For more information contact 07952169341 or hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

For more information or to book a place call Katie on 07972 474965 Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 8pm to 9.45pm

Join us to sing pop, rock, folk, show tunes, gospel.

Contact gryffevoices@gmail.com

New Step ‘N’ Tone Class Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 10am (commences 16th April) Tel: 07505126416 for further details

Gateway Garden, Kilbarchan from 1pm

2nD thurSDay MOnthly Sòlas Bereavement Support Group Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm. 2pm - 4pm.

3rD FriDay MOnthly

EVEry tuESDay

Hearing Aid Clinic

Bishopton Belles Line Dancing

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1 - 2pm

Hearing aid batteries and hearing aid checks.

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

2nD SaturDay MOnthly

Singing for Wellbeing

‘Brunch & Browse’

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30 - 8.30pm

Bishopton Community Centre 6pm - 7.15pm A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs.

EVEry

WEDnESDay

Knitting Group

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon

Knitters of all levels welcome!

St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm

Soups, baking, tea, coffee, books & lots of stalls

laSt FriDay MOnthly TheTerrace St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall

Soups, sandwiches, tea/coffee, biscuits. £4.

For a healthier, slimmer, more energetic you!

laSt SaturDay MOnthly Table Top Sale

EVEry thurSDay

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

Skinny Minnies

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7pm - 8pm

Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Ave 11am - 1pm

Weekly Volunteer Group

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Conser vation Volunteers - adult group.

Newcomers always welcome.

EVEry

FriDay

Singing for Wellbeing

Bishopton Community Centre 2pm - 3.15pm A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs.

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 14 - 18 years.

Newcomers always welcome.

Houston Litter Crew

1St Sat

2nD & 4th WEDnESDay BoW Senior Citizens Club Cargill Hall 7 - 9.15pm

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

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.

   SSPCA Abseil at the Falkirk Wheel

Falkirk Wheel, 141 Ochiltree Terrace, Camelon, Falkirk FK1 4LS Raising funds for Scotland’s animal welfare charity. A team of highly skilled instructors will ensure you are equipped with all you need to make your abseil as safe and enjoyable as possible. Control the speed of your descent, slowly sliding down the rope or whooshing down commando fashion! Participants must be aged 16 years or over. Parental consent is required for persons aged 16 or 17 years wishing to abseil. Https://www.facebook.com/ events/1394939063948696/

   St James Orchestra Spring Concert

Johnstone Town Hall, Johnstone 7.30pm Conducted by Leon Reimer and led by Fiona Butcher, their spring concert is full of musical favourites and an exciting debut performance.

Tickets from Johnstone Town Hall, Paisley Arts Centre and at the door. For more information please visit www.stjamesorchestra.org.uk or email us at info@stjamesorchestra.org.uk

   The Masqueraders

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 7pm Prepare to be amazed by their outstanding talents in song and rhyme and after the show, join in some chat over a cuppa and goodies.

This year our chosen charity is Robin House Children’s Hospice, Balloch - a haven for children, and their families, who have lifeshortening illnesses. Book early to avoid disappointment. To order tickets call Norma Hancock on 01505 614943 or any member of the group. £5.

  

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

Quiz Night - Brookfield

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 7pm Get together with your brainiest friends, family members and/or neighbours and come along for a fun filled evening! With Pig Racing as seen at last year’s Gala Day. Doors/Bar from 7pm with the Quiz starting at 7.30pm. Admission £3 per person. Max 6 per team. Please e-mail brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com to book.

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

Co-op Car Park 10am – 11.45am

All volunteers welcome and all equipment supplied.

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 2.30pm to 4.30pm We would be delighted to welcome you all for hot drinks, home baking, lots of chat, activities, music and a bible story. Admission free. All children need to be accompanied. All welcome (children not required). Find us on Facebook (Bridge of Weir Messy Church).

Come and sing with Gryffe Voices Community Choir Monday nights at 8pm (term time only). All welcome. More male voices needed!

At Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir

   Bumble Bee & Wildflower ID Walk

Lunderston Bay, Cloch Road, near Gourock PA19 1BB Join us for a walk along the shoreline and learn identification skills too. 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1 – 3pm For more info: Details & bookings online or t 01457 521 458

   Paisley Abbey Recitals Abbey Strings

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley In Paisley Abbey at 12.30pm, with baking in the Cloister Café from 10am. Margo Smith & Catriona McGilvray – violins, Claire Griffiths – viola, Priscilla Routley - cello. Tickets £5 at the door.

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Sun

22ND a

pril

Magic with Tickles the Clown

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Meet Tickles the clown and be amazed at her magical skills and balloon animals. Face Painting also available.

   Paisley Abbey Concert

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 7.30pm Join the Paisley Abbey Choir with Mezzo Soprano – Pamela Hay, Baritone – Colin Murray, Bass Flute – Ewan Robertson and Conductor – George McPhee. The programme consists of Three Donne Lyrics by Edward McGuire (first performance), Mass for Double choir by Frank Martin and Requiem by Maurice Duruflé. Tickets £15, £5 (student) available from the Abbey Shop or at the door. Or by phone 0141 889 7654, info@paisleyabbey. org.uk www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

   Pedal the Park Road Sportive

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch from 8am A 100km open road sportive organised with Ride 63 Community Cycle Club, fund raising for CLIC Sargent. Help always welcome to marshal the route – please get in contact.

Fore more info: www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/ events & British Cycling online entry. £20 in advance.

   Operation Outdoors

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 3pm A celebration with activities, games and challenges on going outdoors responsibly with the opportunity to use cycle power to make your own smoothie and let your dog meet Snelly the Sheep. Plus Police Security Marking and Bike Health Checks. Fore more info: Details online or t 01505 842882.

WED

25th a

pril

St Columba’s School Open Evening

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm 6pm to 9pm Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4EQ and Senior School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4AU There is no better way to experience the true atmosphere of St Columba’s School than to come and see it for yourself. Open Evening provides the perfect opportunity for prospective and current families to see what makes St Columba’s so special. Please do come along from 6pm-9pm, please visit our website for more information: www.st-columbas.org

   Gateway Garden Free Drop In Session

Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan 2pm All welcome to visit for a relaxing time, with the option to join in easy gardening and bird feeding activities and to bring your gardening questions to our experts. For more information contact 07952 169341 or hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

WED

25th - S 28th at

april

31st Paisley Beer Festival

Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley Over 250 beers from breweries in Scotland and the rest of the UK. Whatever your taste, there will be a real ale for everyone.

Admission £4 for CAMRA members and £6 for non-members. A commemorative Paisley Beer Festival beer glass is included in the admission price.

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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april 2018

t: 01505 613340

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Orchard Flooring Stylish, Durable: A Floor for Life

When choosing a new fl oor for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration. For a lot of our clients, having a fl oor 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 fl ooring 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 fl oor to be proud of.

beauty of natural fl ooring to your home without the hassle.

Both are easy to clean and without the porous qualities of wood and some stone. They bring the ageless

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 fi nd the perfect fl oor for a room.

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

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

Carrick Nights Kentigern Quartet + supporting performer Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston – Saturday 21st April 8pm Apologies for having to cancel the Concert on the 2nd March but due to the ‘snow’, felt we had no option but to do so. We have managed to re-arrange a concert for the 21st April, again with the Kentigern Quartet.

They will be performing Dvorack American quartet; Puccini Crystantemi and a selection of light music introduced by the quartet.

We are currently in discussion with a support act and are confi dent things will soon be in place for the 21st .

Tickets for the 2nd March will be valid for the new date. Should that not be suitable for any ticket holders, please contact us and we will arrange a refund.

Any one interested in attending please telephone 01505 229597 or e mail: thecarrickcentre@gmail.com we would greatly appreciate your support. Ticket prices Adult £12 Child/Student £5

  

Comedy with John Archer Friday 20th April - River Inn, Houston PA6 7AW Open to everyone! Freeland Church Men’s Fellowship Group brings us a night of Comedy, Fun, Laughter, Food with John Archer.

Comedy, Magic and more... Check him out... www.john-archer.com. Tickets available from 15th February. Tables of 10 - Group bookings - Individual tickets John Archer will give a short testimony after his performance.

Tickets from: Robin Livingstone 07765 938909, robinlivingstone@ googlemail.com or Hamish Walker 07748 106322

  

Allander Jazz Band in concert Saturday 12th May at 7.30pm, Kilbarchan Parish Church hall Tickets are £10 and can be booked by phoning 01505 703786.

hames E S T A T E S At Hames Estates, we are absolutely delighted to announce that we are celebrating our second year anniversary as the only independent estate and letting agent based in the heart of Kilmacolm.

It was November 2015, after building on years of hands-on experience in the property sales and letting market that Joe McKenzie, Managing Director, fi rst established Hames Estates as a fully fl edged company and competitor in the housing market.

We are always up-to-date with the changes on legislation and ensure we provide guidance and advice for keeping sellers, buyers, landlords and tenants protected.

It has been an exciting journey so far for the company and we could not be prouder of what we have achieved within the two years since incorporation.

It is clear to us that our progression and successes would not have been possible without the people of the village of Kilmacolm and surrounding areas. We would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank all of our clients, residents and local businesses for their continued support. From the outset the community spirit of the village has welcomed Hames Estates as a valued service within the area and beyond.

We look forward to continuing to supply a fi rst class service of both selling and taking care of rental property in a personal and responsible manner.

Offi ce: 01505 873223 | Mob: 07455 171800 info@hames-estates.com | www.hames-estates.com 8 St James Terrace Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4HB

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Get Your Dancing Shoes On The OIR Dance Group meet on a Monday at 1.30pm in the Clark Memorial Hall, Largs. Dancing consists of Ballroom, Sequence, Old Time and Scottish.

All new members are made welcome, so dust off your old dance shoes and come along and join us, come alone or bring a partner.

Contact: Bill Alexander 01475 522043 or Archie Adams 01475 649008.

St James Orchestra Spring Concert St James orchestra are delighted to present their spring concert, full of musical favourites and an exciting debut performance.

In honour of the centenary of Leonard Bernstein’s birth the orchestra will begin with the overture from Candide. Dvorák’s much loved 9th symphony, Op. 95 ‘From the New World’ will follow along with Malcolm Arnold’s Four Scottish Dances, Op. 59. The orchestra will also be giving the debut performance of Summer Bummer from the Tartan Terrors – Three Orchestral Dances on the Highland Midge, Op. 23, a witty and playful piece by the orchestra’s very own Kester Clark.

Conducted by Leon Reimer and led by Fiona Butcher, the orchestra will perform at Johnstone Town hall on Saturday 21st April at 7.30. Tickets will be available at Johnstone Town Hall, Paisley Arts Centre and at the door.

For more information please visit www.stjamesorchestra.org.uk or email us at info@stjamesorchestra.org.uk

Renfrewshire unveils dates for 2018 events programme

Thu

26th A

The Terrace Lunch Club

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 12noon Everyone welcome for a soup lunch with coffee/tea after.

26

What: Paisley Food Festival When: 27th - 28th April What: CAMRA’s Paisley Beer

Festival When: 25th - 28th April What: The British Pipe Band

Championships When: 19th May What: Sma’ Shot Day When: 7th - 8th July What: Pagliacci by Scottish Opera

(at Seedhill Playing fields) When: 26th - 29th July What: Doors Open Day

Renfrewshire When: 15th - 16th September What: The Spree Arts Festival When: 12th - 21st October What: When:

Paisley Halloween Festival 26th - 27th October

What: Paisley Fireworks When: 3rd November

“With bigger events in the 2018 programme it is shaping up to be the best year yet.”

(Iain Nicolson Renfrewshire Council Leader)

“The Vicar of Dibley”

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 7.30pm Kilbarchan Parish Church Drama Group presents the 2-act comedy “The Vicar of Dibley”. The play is formed from scenes from the original television series and all the well-known characters appear. Tickets, £9 and £5 (school-age) are now available from Bobbins, group members or by phoning 01505 704048.

   Who will Survive?

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm Kilmacolm Dramatic Society presents “Murder Inn” by Howard Voland and Keith McGregor.

When a group of tourists make an unscheduled stop at the Barnsley Inn a night of mayhem and murder ensues. But who survives and lives to tell the tale? Tickets from Cross Cafe or Rosie Thirde 01505 873088. £12 per adult and £10 for children under the age of 14.

Fri

27th A

pril

ACCORD Hospice Girls Night out with SPLASH

Normandy Hotel, Inchinnan Road, Renfrew Come along and ‘Dance the Night Away’ with the fabulous 80s tribute band ‘SPLASH’.

Includes Bubbly on arrival and 3 course dinner. Tickets available online or from the Hospice. £30

   Decorus 30th Anniversary Beauty Party

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 6.45pm Help us celebrate 30 years in Kilmacolm.

Tickets £25 (partly redeemable against a Clarins purchase). Wonderful raffle prizes.

Everyone receives a Clarins gift. Contact Decorus for tickets (limited availability) on 01505 873636.

27

28

th - Sat th Fri April

Paisley Food & Drink Festival

Paisley - various venues Set to be bigger than ever with it taking place over two days for the very first time. Tasting sessions, street food, live music, farmers market, children’s events – you would be nuts to miss it! Visit www.paisley.is for more information.

Sat

28th A

pril

Scotland’s Garden Scheme Kilmacolm Plant Sale

Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12pm Scotland’s Garden Scheme’s Kilmacolm Plant Sale. A selection of plants to suit all gardens.

Proceeds to Parklea Branching Out and SGS beneficiaries. FREE

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28

th - Sat th Thu April

Renfrewshire 2018 Major Events!

Paisley and Renfrewshire are in line for another bumper year of major events Selected highlights of the 2018 events programme include:

Sat

pril

28th A

pril

Kilmacolm Community Clean up Pullman Car Park 9.45am Come along and help pick up letter on the approach roads to the village. All ages welcome - we will supply bags, litter pickers etc. Contact Mike Jefferis on 01505 873357 or 07712 341109 to volunteer.

   Scottish Model Yacht Championships

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm approx Watch the International One Metre Yachting elite racing at the lochshore. Fore more info: www.mya-uk.co.uk

   Beachwatch

Lunderston Bay, Cloch Road, near Gourock PA19 1BB 11am to 1pm As part of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive help the Rangers & Greenock Conservation Volunteers record the sea debris.

Fore more info: Details & bookings online or tel 01457 521458.

28

29

th - Sun th Sat April

Pirate Weekend

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm So popular we made it for the weekend! Dress as a scurvy buccaneer and practice your best Arrg! Drama and shouting a plenty. Prize for best dressed pirate.

   Sailability Spring Regatta

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 10.30am to 4pm approx Lots of accessible sailing boats will be training on Saturday and racing on Sunday. For more info: t 01505 842 882

Sun

29th A

pril

Brookfield Art Club Art Show Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 12noon to 4.30pm Tea Room with Home Baking. £1

Fri

4th M

ay

Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Show deadline

Knapps Loch, Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm Light Horse classes, including cross country, showjumping, showing and games, will run all day and entries can be made on showday at the Horse Tent at double the fees shown in the schedule. Light Horse classes can be entered online at www.kilmacolmshow.co.uk at normal fees until Friday 4th May. Schedules and entry forms for all classes can be downloaded from the website - www.kilmacolmshow.co.uk.

Sat

5th M

ay

Angel Voices & Voices+ Afternoon Tea Concert

St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm 2pm to 3.30pm Come along for Coffee, Tea, Home Baking, Sandwiches, Scones and Cake & Raffle. The Choir will give a little Concert of Songs from their Repertoire at 2.30pm. Please pay at the door. Tickets £4

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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Are you prepared for the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which will apply from 25 May 2018?

Financial Blog

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd

New Tax Year Allowances The tax year runs from 6th April to the following 5th April and the new tax year offers you a range of allowances to reduce your tax liabilities. The main allowances are: • Tax Free Personal Allowance – the amount of income you can earn without paying income tax will rise from £11,500 to £11,850 (reduced if your income exceeds £100,000pa) • Savings Allowance – tax free bank interest of £1,000 for basic rate income taxpayers, £500 for higher rate income taxpayers and £0 for additional rate taxpayers.

• Dividends Allowance - tax free dividends allowance will fall from £5,000 to £2,000 per person in the new tax year, meaning more tax to pay for many.

IT Blog

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom

I know that I repeat myself a lot, on this article and elsewhere too I’m sure.

For the record, yes I still prefer Gmail to all other free email platforms.

While we are at it I still believe Apple are too expensive and I still don’t like McAfee or Norton.

So then this - the telephone scammers are still at it, and doing well out of us it seems. Social engineering scams, of the type where a chancer will call you ultimately to gain access to your bank account, seem to be on the rise. Certainly on my radar - as localised as that is. In the last two or three months I have heard from at least six people needing to go through the rigmarole with the bank, cancelling cards and all that.

It is my experience that, each of these scammed victims believes themselves to have been ‘stupid’ or ‘gullible’ and is left bewildered as to their own actions in letting themselves fall victim to a telephone ruse.

Imagine enjoying your breakfast one morning at 7 or 8 am, the phone rings, you pick up, a little perplexed, to hear someone hurriedly address you by your name, telling you they are from your ISP or perhaps Microsoft, then telling you that your computer is basically breaking the internet and it is all your fault! Your heart rate goes from nought to sixty in two seconds, the resulting adrenaline evidently makes us lose our inhibitions regarding security, the scammers are on their front foot in familiar territory but to the victim it’s a slow motion car crash.

If you have been taken in by this kind of behaviour then don’t beat yourself up, this is a mental manipulation that has been honed by many victims before you. To this end, I would just like to remind everyone reading that you may not be as impervious to this type of scam as you may think. These callers are extremely persuasive and adept at reading and manipulating the situation they concoct.

Don’t have nightmares.

• Capital Gains Tax Allowance – the exempt amount will rise from £11,300 to £11,700 per person in the new tax year, so when you sell an asset and make a gain you get to keep almost £12,000 tax free (£23,400 for a married couple) • Residential Nil Rate Band Allowance – this is an exemption from Inheritance Tax in respect of your main residential property. The allowance increases from £100,000 to £125,000 in 2018/19, and will rise to £175,000 over the next 2 years.

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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13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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april 2018

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Weir Networking Paisley Soroptimists

Some readers have been asking when the next Weir Networking Business event will take place. These are now held quarterly, on a Wednesday in Amaretto, Bridge of Weir.

Resettling Refugees

Dates as follows: Wed 13th June, Wed 12th September, Wed 5th December. Breakfast starts at 9.30am. There is a cover charge of £5.

With the war in Syria featuring on our TV screens nightly, members of S.I.Paisley were very interested to hear from Alison Millar, Refugee Resettlement Co-ordinator for Renfrewshire Council about her work.

Alison talked about the Syrian Vulnerable Person Resettlement Programme, explaining that Renfrewshire is leading the way in supporting refugees, with more families than any other local authority. She told us about how she came to be involved in this type of work, including firsthand experience of being in a war zone in Kosovo - a life changing and frightening experience.

Please email colin@magifilms.co.uk or visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Weir-Networking-350783798430333/ We look forward to welcoming you all.

Renfrewshire Jobs Programmes are #1

She then spoke about some of the challenges she and her team face daily, supporting the refugees and helping them to settle in. This includes encouraging the adults to learn English and helping teenagers, who because of their experiences see themselves as adults, into education through the college rather than school.

Her talk gave us some insight into what it is like to be a refugee, a situation in which none of those present could really imagine finding themselves.

Ripped Up by ReMode a Resounding Success Over 150 people eagerly attended ‘Ripped Up’ for the Fashion Show of the year – and that’s not including a 60 strong team of new models, clothes makers, dressers, makeup artists, production and back stage crew, who put on an exciting show that reflected a year of learning and understanding a whole lot more about the negative and very real life threatening effects that the fashion industry has on our environment.

Garments showcased on the runway were made by the Recycle and Dye – a group of 10 to 16 year olds who learn to design and make their own clothes from Scratch – often from discarded fabrics or other materials, or to extend the life of preloved clothing with print, dye and stitch techniques.

Gillian Steel, ReMode’s Co-ordinator and fashion show producer, said of their work, ‘while their message is a serious one, the small collective enjoys each others company as we work together. I’m delighted that this came across at the fashion show tonight. Thanks for a great year together.’

Photographs of the show have been credited to Elaine Beaten.

The latest Local Government Benchmarking Framework Indicator Profile ranks Renfrewshire Council’s jobs and training programme as No.1 nationally in assisting people into work.

The annual report collates data across a range of services including education, housing and adult social care, considering service costs, their effectiveness and customer satisfaction. Renfrewshire has improved in more than 60 per cent of the 64 performance indicators in the 2016/17 report and is ranked in the top eight local authorities for 16 of these.

It reports Renfrewshire school attainment levels up across the board, with more pupils gaining five or more National 5 and Higher awards.

And it highlights strong customer satisfaction in Renfrewshire for schools and local leisure facilities. Also to the council’s credit the report notes that more than half of the highest paid council employees are women.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson has welcomed the steady improvements in performance, “We can be very proud in particular of the continuous improvements being achieved in our schools, giving children in Renfrewshire every opportunity to achieve their potential no matter their background .... And for our employability programmes to be the best performing in Scotland in helping people into work is highly commendable. We have just invested a further £4.5million to lever in more European funding over the next five years to carry on this great work and make the most of the employment opportunities being created here in Renfrewshire through key projects like early years’ expansion and the construction of Scotland’s national manufacturing institute.”

The report also raises a number of areas for improvement, including customer satisfaction with street cleaning and maintaining Renfrewshire roads. Renfrewshire’s 2018 Budget confirmed an additional £2.5million to improve the local environment over the next five years and a single-year £7.2million in 2018/19 to improve Renfrewshire roads and footpaths.

“There are areas we know Renfrewshire can and must improve upon,” added Councillor Nicolson. “We recognise the challenges facing our communities and that’s why our budget provided additional funding to target these elements as a priority. By listening to our residents and by working closely with our community partners, Renfrewshire can and will thrive.”

The full report is available at: http://www.improvementservice.org.uk/ benchmarking/reports.html

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Legal Blog

by Isabella McKerrow, Affinity Family Law

Naming a child and changing its name It is usual in Scotland for the child to take the surname of the father although there is no legal requirement for this. The child may be given the surname of the mother instead. This may be preferred where the mother is not married to the father. Where parties are not married the father alone cannot register the birth and name of the child. However, the name by which a child is known is a matter of fact in any individual case. A child does not have to be known by the name registered on the birth certificate. If the other parent objects to the use of the new name, they can raise interdict proceedings to prevent the child being known by the new name. On the other hand, the parent who wants the change of name can apply to the court for a specific issue order to ask the court to determine the matter. The courts will apply the principle that the welfare of the child is the paramount consideration. They will take into account the views of the child but the weight the court will attach to such views is dependent on the child’ age and maturity. It is generally inappropriate for either parent to unilaterally change a child’s name except

where there are exceptional and overwhelming circumstances. The typical dispute is where the mother with whom the children continue to reside after divorce remarries again and now wants to change the children’s surname to that of the new spouse. The courts are likely to refuse the order, taking the view a name change in such circumstances sends an inappropriate message to the children that the natural father belonged wholly to their past and had no place in their present.

Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley SPEAKER MEETINGS AT THE RIVER INN st

Wednesday 21 February - Jim Mearns, “The Antonine Wall” Jim Mearns was introduced by Alan Watt. Jim gained degrees in Archaeology and Urban and Regional Planning in the 1980s. He worked in a number of senior roles with Glasgow City Council, retiring in 2013 since which time he has served as Editor of the Scottish Archaeology Journal. He is Past Deacon of the Coopers and a Freeman of the City of Glasgow.

Jim’s subject for the Rotary meeting was “The Antonine Wall”.

With the help of a beautiful set of photographs and maps Jim told the club the story of the wall. The Antonine Wall was a turf fortification on stone foundations, built by the Romans across what is now the Central Belt of Scotland, 39 miles in length between the Firth of Forth and the Firth of Clyde. Construction began in AD 142 at the order of Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius, and took about 12 years to complete. The soldiers who built the wall commemorated the construction and their struggles with the Caledonians in unique decorative slabs, twenty of which still survive. These and other artefacts recovered by archaeological digs are displayed in the Hunterian Museum. Questions continued after the end of a very fascinating meeting.

Wednesday 7th March - Jim Watson, “Naval war history, part 2” Jim Watson followed up on last year’s naval talk with a very interesting explanation of the movements of the German and British navies early in WW1 during the retreat of the German Imperial East Asia Squadron from their base in China across the Pacific, around Cape Horn into the Atlantic in their attempt to reach Germany. He described the battles of Coronel and the Falklands, and the diversionary raid into the Bay of Bengal.

process for finding, delivering and marketing innovations with three interesting examples: • le Joli – fruit flavoured infused water • Strathmore Botanicals – spring water with interesting flavours • Big Willie – a mixer with naval overtones for gin (navy strength preferred) for the craft market A large number of questions followed, covering both the innovations and core products.

The chairman for the evening, Mike Farley, thanked Martin for an interesting and wellpresented talk.

Dinner meetings are held in The River Inn, Crosslee at 7pm for 7.30pm.

If you are interested in Rotary and would to like to attend or help at any of our events please contact the club via the “contact” button on the website www.gryffevalley-rotary.org.uk .

EVENT PLANNER The following events have been confirmed: Sun 15th April: Charity Musical Lunch at St Columba’s School. 12.30pm for 1pm. Tickets from Club members.

Sunday 29th April: Annual 10K run. Save the date and spread the word!

Saturday 19th May: Rotary Charity Car Wash at Beaton Bros Funeral Directors

Wednesday 14th March - Martin Steele “Innovation in Soft Drinks” Martin is a marketing professional who studied at the University of paisley (now UWS) and lectures there occasionally. At AG Barr he has had roles in marketing the IrnBru brand and in the company’s activities around the Commonwealth Games. Now he is the Head of Innovation.

He explained how AG Barr have moved from being “the Irn Bru company” to a company with a growing portfolio of soft drinks.

He explained the management

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

Thomas - 14 y/o male Domestic short-hair Thomas is what you would call a distinguished and debonair elderly gentleman of the cat world.

Thomas

He is a wonderful boy who is young at heart and loves his cuddles and going out for a potter about the garden to stretch his legs.

He loves his cat naps and will be a wonderful companion. He can be homed with older children but no other pets.

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

Chester - male Crossbreed Chester is a handsome, gentle giant who is full of character and looking for his forever home.

He enjoys lying outside in the sun so he would not be suitable to live as a house rabbit. He also enjoys a bit of a fuss and exploring his Chester surroundings. Like all rabbits Chester will need a large enclosure with plenty to keep him entertained.

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

Chip - 2 to 5 y/o male Lakeland Terrier

Pet Blog

by PetVets

Rabbit Vaccinations Rabbits can be vaccinated against two viral diseases called Myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD).

Myxomatosis: Very common in the wild rabbit population. Rabbits can be infected by direct contact with infected rabbits or the virus can be spread by biting insects.

Infection causes puffy swellings around the face, eyes and ears, swelling around the anus and genitals, fever and anorexia. Most cases are fatal within 10 - 14 days.

There is no specific treatment and often euthanasia is the kindest option.

Vaccinated rabbits may still be infected but the disease is milder and the rabbit often recovers with symptomatic care.

Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease: Common in wild rabbits in the UK. The virus persists for a long time in the environment and can be carried on the wind, carried on shoes, clothing, etc, or by insects, birds and rodents, as well as spreading by direct contact with infected rabbits.

Infection causes high fever, liver disease and internal bleeding. Infection is almost always fatal with death occurring within 2 days of infection.

A mutated strain of the virus known as RHD-2 is now present in the UK. This strain causes anorexia, clotting disorders and liver disease. It has a longer incubation period and slower disease progress than RHD-1. Mortality is lower but death still occurs in 25% of cases.

Prevention A combined vaccine is available providing cover for myxomatosis and RHD-1, and a 2nd vaccination providing cover for RHD-2 can be given 2 weeks after this. Vaccination can be started from 5 weeks of age and is repeated annually.

Risk of infection can also be reduced by regularly cleaning and disinfecting rabbit hutches and runs, controlling insects using insect proof screens and regular flea treatment and preventing contact with wild rabbits and restricting access to areas where wild rabbits have been.

For more information on rabbit vaccination and healthcare contact us at Petvets on 01505 800366.

Chip

Chip can live with people aged 16 years and over and needs his own secure garden to practice his training in. Chip needs an owner who is experienced with terriers and who is around for most of the day initially but he can be left for a few hours and is housetrained.

Chip needs to be the only dog in the home and cannot live with cats.

He is looking for a hands off home who will recognise when to give him the space that he needs.

Chip needs a few meets at the centre to build a relationship before going to his 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

Lost Pets?

If your pet has gone missing and you would like to place a notice in The Advertizer, please call 01505 613340 or email info@advertizer. co.uk. We can also put updates on our website & Facebook. There is no charge for this service!

Scottish SPCA 0141 882 1688 | www.scottishspca.org Dogs Trust Glasgow 0141 773 5130 | www.dogstrust.org.uk Cats Protection 0141 779 3341 | www.cats.org.uk Johnstone Cat Rescue 01505 337321

The Underheugh Ark www.underheugharkrescue.co.uk

Local Animal Charities Give a Dog a Bone www.giveadogabone.net Any Dog’il Do www.anydogildorescue.org

Animal Support & Rescue www.facebook.com/ASARCharity

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 01505 502415 | www.hessilhead.org.uk

Harvey’s Army Scotland harveysarmy.com Lamont Farm www.lamontfarm.org.uk

These centres are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising.

If you can help, please get in touch with them.

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Chip is a cheeky wee chap who is full of fun! He is a typical wee terrier who isn’t a little lap dog. He loves to be on the go, playing with toys and exploring. He would benefit from living in a quiet home with few visitors.

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There is a wonderful animal rescue charity running at Mid Gavin Equestrian centre by Howwood. Set up seven years ago by Jaine McPherson, with one mare and a Shetland, this has now escalated into around 30 horses and ponies and a waiting list of many more. Jaine had fantastic support from Margaret McPherson and Karen Crawford from day one. While Margaret got on with running the yard, Karen took it in her stride to keep the admin, fundraising and event side running. The charity also takes in battery hens who have served their time, and have rehomed a number of dogs, cats and rabbits.

While the charity try to re-home as many as they can, some of these horses are in need of specialised care.

Some are quite elderly, some have arthritis, a couple have narcolepsy, all of which make them less likely to be taken on by another family.

As this has been a wet and harsh winter, the hay, feed and bedding bills have gone through the roof, there is still rent to pay, and vet bills are a constant worry for the Charity. Recently, one of their favourite residents, Sammy, came down suddenly with colic and was rushed to the Glasgow Vet School. He was operated on straight away but unfortunately they were not able to save him. The charity still has a bill to settle for this, and has opened a gofundme page to try to help cover the cost at https://www. gofundme.com/7n35v-sammys-vet-bill I met Margaret on a cold and wet morning at the stables. The horses all looked happy and cosy in their stables, but this has been part of the problem. With the recent weather, the horses are being kept inside more than normal. But Margaret still had a smile on her face as she explained the need for funding help.

And with the number of animals to be cared for, they are also always on the lookout for reliable volunteers.

Margaret McPherson with one of the residents

Now Jaine is appealing to local animal lovers for any help they can give. Having already used up all her savings, she is now faced with selling the only horsebox the charity owns just to fund the bills. The charity’s facebook page has over 5,000 friends and Jaine told The Advertizer, “I don’t like to beg, but last week I was very low and put out an appeal that if everyone on our facebook page committed to a standing order of £1 a month, that would help enormously. However, the bills still come every month, and we really do need regular income to help keep our residents warm, healthy and happy.”

“I have set up a gofundme page to cover the cost of just one vet bill, and I have appealed to anyone thinking of taking part in charity events to do them in the cause of our charity. This year’s Glasgow Kiltwalk takes place on 29th April with 3 walks: The Mighty Stride - 23 miles, The Big Stroll - 15 miles and the wee Wander - 6 miles. For every penny raised for the charity Sir Tom Hunter will contribute 40% on top. More information and the application process can be found on their website http://www.thekiltwalk.co.uk/events/glasgow-2018/” “Margaret and I have been overwhelmed by the response to my facebook appeal and really do hope that some of your readers will be able to make a contribution to help us keep helping these lovely animals. We are trying so many ways to raise funds and would be so grateful for any support anyone can give, whether it’s by donation or organising a fundraising event, donating items we can sell or auction, any unwanted tack or rugs, possibly to donate a bale of hay - absolutely any way you can support would be so very gratefully received.

We are also always in need of reliable volunteers who have a true passion for horses and what we do.”

If you feel you could help out in any of the ways mentioned above, please contact the Animal Support & Rescue charity through their Facebook page. Donations can be made via PayPal to animalrescueglasgow@ gmail.com. There is also a text donation option by texting ASAR22 AND £AMOUNT TO 70070. There is also the option to pay directly to our vet or feed company, details can be provided by sending a PM to the charities Facebook page.

Zip slide across the River Clyde!

Zip slide from a 150ft crane 1000ft across the River Clyde on Saturday 16th June. A safe and unforgettable adrenaline packed experience using the latest technology and safety equipment, led by experienced, qualified zip line masters.

Participants are asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £150, which includes a £20 non-refundable deposit.

Please register for this event by visiting the following link to pay your deposit: https://www.scottishspca.org/ shop/events/zip-slide-the-clyde/. Alternatively you can pay your deposit by calling 03000 999 999 (option 4).

Your space will be confirmed as soon as we receive your deposit.

This event holds a maximum weight restriction for each participant of 17 stone or 108 KG. Participants must be 16+ on the day of the event.

Please note that spaces are given on a first come first served basis so I would advise getting your space confirmed as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. https://www.facebook.com/events/167081223908579/

Hedgehogs are starting to emerge!

Judging by the amount of phone calls we are getting, hedgehogs are starting to emerge! They will be hungry and thirsty, please offer them meaty pet food, hedgehog food or cat biscuits and always just water to drink. Also please log sightings on the BIG Hedgehog Map at bighedgehogmap.org

Donations Needed Monthly donations mean we can save animals in Scotland today, tomorrow and in the months and years ahead.

We receive no government or lottery funding, which means donations are all we have.

With your support we can give abused, abandoned and injured animals: • Food, warmth and shelter • Veterinary care • The second chances they need Please help save lives by making a monthly donation. You can also make a one-off donation. Any amount helps...

Visit https://www.scottishspca.org/support/ donate/ to donate.

Do you run a local animal charity? Want to get the word out about fundraising? Contact us on info@advertizer.co.uk or call 01505 613340

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Colourful Kilmacolm

Brighter Bridge of Weir Just as we were gearing up to get out and about the village for the first time this year, the ‘Beast from the East’ descended upon us with a vengeance, so that set us back a bit. Were we downhearted? Not in the least. Anyway, as we’ve said often enough before, just because you don’t see us out on the streets doesn’t mean that we’re not continuing our work to enhance Bridge of Weir. Our dedicated volunteers used the downtime to create items for sale at our second ‘Pop-Up Shop’ which was scheduled to open between 10.30am to 12.30pm on 24th March.

(That was just over a week after the Advertizer’s April deadline so, at the time of writing, we’re not even sure that it won’t be nobbled by a ‘Pest from the West’ or some such – fingers crossed!)

Also, we’ve had meetings with other like-minded groups and agencies to see how we can create long-term biodiversity improvements as well as planting and maintaining our annual flowers and shrubs. If you have any thoughts on what might further enhance the environment of our village, let us know. You can contact us via our Facebook page, or our website wwww.brighterbridgeofweir.org or email secretary@ brighterbridgeofweir.org .

You could also help us even more by becoming a volunteer. You don’t have to have any special skills, just an interest in creating a pleasant environment in which to live and work, and an hour or two to spare every now and then. It’s not really hard work, but it is very rewarding.

Plant Sale - Kilmacolm Outside Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, 28th April from 10am until noon.

A selection of plants to suit all gardens from Scotland’s Garden Scheme’s Kilmacolm Plant Sale. Proceeds to Parklea Branching Out and SGS beneficiaries.

A year ago we mentioned the prospect of improvements to the garden at Market Place, and over the year a lot of work was carried out to make this area more presentable, including putting in many new plants. Unfortunately there are still a few people who insist on tramping across the newly prepared area, using it as a shortcut. One dog-walker, when asked to desist, gave the unhelpful assurance that she was careful not to walk on the plants. Would that be the same person whose footprints were left in the snow, when it was impossible to see where the plants and emerging bulbs were?

Fortunately, there are many folk who are more supportive of our efforts and we have been very grateful for the assistance of local Explorer Scouts who have carried out some quite strenuous work both at Market Place and, more recently, at the Pullman slope, clearing away dead foliage and litter so that when the new growth emerges it will be seen to advantage.

We are all looking forward to another colourful year. Members will soon receive notification of our AGM on 7th May. Please note that membership of Colourful Kilmacolm is open to everyone. We would welcome anyone willing to come out occasionally with trowel and secateurs, but non-gardening members can also be valued members.

The very modest annual membership subscription (£5), along with money received from Inverclyde Council and other sources will enable us to keep enhancing Kilmacolm. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can phone Peter (01505 872448) or Liz (07963973031).

Kilbarchan Smile WE NEED YOUR HELP Our very committed active members are still small in number. Do you want to make a difference to your village? Get involved with Kilbarchan Smile and tackle some of the bug-bears everyone seems to have – make village improvements (we’ve already made a difference outside Bobbins and at the flower bed on Shuttle Street), help drive forward a litter or dog poo campaign, help in the community garden, with admin, PR, digital and social media as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards volunteering section or through your employer if they have a volunteering provision as part of their Continuous Professional Development. To find out more, contact 07952 169341, email hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.

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What’s on in April Spring has Sprung! Come to Finlaystone to enjoy the joys of Spring.

Hear the spring call of our native birds such as chaffinch, blackbird, great tit and long tailed tit.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society The Spring and Summer plans for the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society are exciting! Our annual coffee morning planned for Saturday 19th May has been upstaged by the royal wedding of Harry and Meghan.

Our alternative - you are invited to a Royal Afternoon Tea Party, in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm 2pm - 4pm. There will be Afternoon Tea, music, bottle and gift tombolas, a Spring plant stall, plus a royal raffle. Entry £3. Everyone welcome. The Summer outing on Wednesday 23rd May is a full day out to Falkirk and Kilsyth. Visits to the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies, lunch in Grangemouth, then afternoon visits to two remarkable gardens in Kilsyth. There are a few seats left remaining - please contact our secretary, Jill Russell, on 01505 872393 for further details. The annual Flower Show will be held on Saturday 8th September in the New Community Centre Kilmacolm - we look forward to greeting you as an exhibitor or as a visitor to the Show.

Aspen Planting Event at Muirshiel Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park are currently felling the remaining conifer blocks at Muirshiel as part of their ongoing woodland management work to return the area to native woodland. Eadha will be working with the Muirshiel rangers and volunteers to plant 350 of its aspen trees adjacent to the trail through the felled areas. We are planning to include a tree from every one of our aspen clones.

Aspen rarely produces seed and spreads by suckering to create groups of clones. Eadha maintains the national aspen clone collection for Scotland which includes samples collected from the length and breadth of the country. This collection is important in terms of genetic conservation given aspen’s rarity. Each clone exhibits different characteristics including variations in colour, form, vigour and timing of leaf flush and fall.

Garden: Daffodils, cherry blossom, a variety Rhododendron, Herbaceous starting to come to life, Peach house – apricot and peach blossom Woodlands: Walk through the woods and enjoy the blossom of trees and wild flowers and smell spring in the air.

Tea Room: The Tea Room will be open weekends and School Holidays selling tea/coffee and yummy homemade cakes.

Events  Sunday 1th April Easter Sunday, 1 - 3pm - Join the Rangers for Easter games. Bring your painted egg and roll it down the hill.

Prizes for best fancy dress, best Easter bonnet and best painted egg.  Monday 2nd Easter Games, 1 - 3pm - Join the Rangers for all things chocolate with Easter themed games!  Tuesday 3rd Bird Feeder Making, 1 - 3pm with RSPB Home for Nature. Make a bird feeder with our Rangers. £2 for materials.

Pre-booking advised.  Thursday 5th Bird Box Making, 1 - 3pm - Join the Rangers making bird boxes, £4 to take it home for your garden. Pre-booking essential.  Sunday 8th Duck Race, 1 – 3pm - Pick your lucky duck and follow it down the stream to see who wins. Prizes to be won!  Tuesday 10th Den Building, 1 - 3pm - Join the Rangers and see who is a budding Bear Grylls.  Thursday 12th Minibeast Hunt, 1 - 3pm - Six legs, eight legs, 100’s of Eyes, a tube to sip nectar or mandibles to rip prey, let’s catch some real mini monsters.  Sunday 15th Spring Scavenger Hunt, 1 - 3pm - Join our Rangers to hunt for amazing natural wonders of Spring!  Sunday 22th Magic with Tickles the Clown, 1 – 3pm - Meet Tickles the clown and be amazed at her magical skills and balloon animals.

Face painting also available  Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th Pirate Weekend, 1 - 3pm - So popular we made it for the weekend! Dress as a scurvy buccaneer and practice your best Arrg! Drama and shouting a plenty.

Prize for best dressed pirate.

When: Thursday May 10th at 10.30am Where: Meet at the Muirshiel Visitor Centre What to bring: Waterproof clothing, stout footwear, packed lunch.

Tools and gloves will be provided.

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Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Monthly Update Traditional Easter Fun: The Ranger Service will be decorating and rolling eggs down Windy Hill at Muirshiel on Sat 31st March and Sun 1st April from 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Plus there’s a drop in quiz at Castle Semple around the lochshore field that you can do. Plus - just added a new event on Easter Sunday at Greenock Cut to decorate and roll your egg too!

Sun 1st, 1pm - 3pm tickets £5.

Outdoor Activity Courses this Easter: If you’d like your child to try a new watersport or activity this Easter holiday call us or check online now. There may be some spaces left for sailing, kayaking, canoeing or our amazing try the, all multi-activity week! Or if we’re all booked up then get in early for summer, once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Walking Festival Save the Date: On 26th - 28th May is our first ever Clyde Muirshiel Walking Festival!

There are easy, moderate and longer walks planned for each day. Explore the Park at a pace you’ll enjoy and with a knowledgeable guide. Details will be on clydemuirshiel.co.uk soon.

Pedal the Park & Operation Outdoors! The 100km Sportive is just 3 weeks away now but there is still time to sign up! The event takes place on Sunday 22nd April It’s just £20 entry through British Cycling with a third of the fee going to CLIC Sargent in Scotland.

Come along to Operation Outdoors afterwards too and get your bike marked by the police and aid your recovery with a bike smoothie!

Clyde Muirshiel Conservation Volunteers: Greenock Cut’s group meet 10.30am – 2.30pm every Saturday and Castle Semple on Thursdays 12.30pm – 3.30pm with the odd full day session. See the full programme online.

Conservation Bioblitz @ Greenock Cut: The new project’s next event, hosted by Greenock Cut Rangers and Conservation Volunteers, is a bumblebee and wildflower ID walk 1pm - 3pm. Book a space online today!

Project News: It is that time of year again when we are seeing the Lesser Black-backed Gulls back on our shores. The team have seen many at Castle Semple loch and quite a few in Glasgow too, none with colour rings yet but it is only a matter of time! So far none of our own gulls have returned home for the breeding season. They might have been put off by our recent snow storm! Perhaps the gulls that have already returned are regretting their decision? Although we aren’t getting a lot of data at the moment because of network failures and reduced lighting we can still see that we have Clyde in Western Sahara, Stuart, Atty and Flyback in Morocco, Roland, Roger, PC Bobby and Gary in Portugal and we have Jonathan, Stephen and Archie in France.

There’s a lovely photo of Archie below, taken in France on the 25th of February by Philippe Birac in the region of Le Verdon-sur-Mer. He is still in his winter plumage, which may indicate that he will be one of the later birds to return. He is looking in good condition, however, which bodes well for when he does eventually come home. Gary, who has been in Portugal since December, started to move into Spain in February and we thought that might be him heading home, however he seems to be settled travelling over the border between Portugal and Spain. Stay tuned for next month as we may have some our gulls home!

The team have been busy delivering talks in the last month to the Culzean Gardening Club, St Elizabeth’s Primary School in Hamilton, and at two schools in Dalry and West Primary in Paisley. We are continuing to increase our public engagement activities and events so if you would like us to come and talk to your group then please get in touch. Details can be found below. To keep up to date with the project and to find out more check out www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/ things-to-do/widlife/tag-n-track/teamgull/ or at www. facebook.com/TagnTrack/ Gull adoptions: Looking for that something different or are you interested in supporting our gull project?

We are offering gull adoption packs where you can sponsor one of the gulls for £25 and in return you will receive an adoption certificate, factsheet, monthly email updates, your name on our website and a fluffy gull to call your own. Look for details on our website or email tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk to find out more.

Archie

Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: Weekly rides start again in April, we’ll be out on Tuesdays, look on our facebook group for the first date and meeting time. Contact the club by emailing the secretary ridesixtythree@gmail.com for a membership form.

Tag-n-Track Project Update It’s time for the monthly roundup from the Tag-n-Track Ranger - Hannah Riley. TnT is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Renfrewshire and Inverclyde LEADER and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

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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Paisley Colour Photographic Club - Blackwood Trophy Last month at the McMaster Centre in Renfrew, Paisley Colour were pleased to welcome Rob Davis from Ayr Photographic Society to judge the Blackwood Trophy, a competition open to all club members with entry consisting of a single image of any subject photographed during 2017.

In total, a diverse range of thirty high-quality images were entered. The 4th placed was judged to be “Morning Rannoch Moor”

by Jim Black.

In 3rd place was “Buy One Get One Free” by Mike Cruise and in 2nd place was “Light On Black Mount”

by Tom Clark. Rob Davis judged the winning image in the competition to be the superbly captured canoeing moment “A Day On The Tay” by Guy Phillips.

For further details about PCPC’s April lectures and final competition of the session as well as to view members galleries please visit www. paisleycolour.co.uk

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Langbank Camera Club Submission The print competition for March was split between two topics, “Print in Print” and “Seasonal.

The overall winner was Gary Ramanathan for his image “Honey I Shrunk the Kids”. The street art in this photograph decorates the gable end of a building on Mitchell Street, just off Argyle Street in Glasgow and was painted by Smug .

Second place was awarded to Carol Fraser for her cat image “Snow Patrol”.

In third place was Derrick McPherson for his image “Snow Caps”, taken during late evening under LED street lighting with no flash. Both of the snow images were captured during the “Beast from the East” snow storm.

Visitors are always welcome to club meetings which are held on the second and fourth Mondays of the month throughout the current session (no meeting on the 9th of April).

Membership is only £10 for the first year.

For more information please contact Derrick McPherson at langbankcc1@gmail.com.

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Gryffe Camera Club If you are interested in joining a friendly Camera Club, just pop along to one of our Club Nights. We meet every Wednesday Night at The Carrick Centre, Houston between 7.30pm and 10pm. Last month’s Guest Speakers included David Hay with his Compositions in the Greek Isles, and Louise Anne Kennedy Upcoming Guest Speakers include David Walker on 28th March with Glasgow’s Hidden Treasures, and on 11th April, local sports photographer, George Neilson pays us a visit. See our website – www.gryffecameraclub.co.uk We are also on Facebook www. facebook.com/Gryffe-Camera-Club. The winners of Club Competition 5 as judged by Bob Walk of Beith Camera Club: A Prints: 1st: Kate Cummings, 2nd: Matt Johnston, 3rd: Helen Ostrycharz B Prints; 1st: Chris Kyle, 2nd: Chris Kyle, 3rd: Chris Kyle Mono Prints: 1st: Pat Allen, 2nd: Kate Cummings, 3rd: Matt Johnson Digital A: 1st: John Mcconnellogue, 2nd: Roger Calvert, 3rd: Roger Calvert Digital B: 1st: Chris Arthur, 2nd: Chris Arthur, 3rd: Chris Arthur

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Diaporama

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Jim had an evening to himself this month and produced four enjoyable sequences. His first sequence focussed on the Doulton Fountain in Glasgow Green. A beautiful terracotta fountain built to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and a celebration of the Empire.

His next two shows were both set in Barcelona where we had a tour of one of the Gaudi Apartments. His last sequence brought us back to Glasgow and a visit to ‘The Tall Ship’, the Glenlee, which was built in the Bay Yard in Port Glasgow and is now renovated and berthed at The Riverside Museum.

As usual it was intriguing to see places, known and unknown, through someone else’s camera lens.

Colin was unable to join us so thanks to Ronnie and Bill who stepped up with some new shows: ‘The Beast from the East’ from Ronnie and the ‘Scottish Maritime Museum’ from Bill, and a few older shows from Ronnie, Kate and Hugh, which were a pleasure to see again. Our next meeting will be on the 8th of April and will feature shows from the ‘girls’ in the club. Please feel free to join us.

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society The Gardeners’ Question Time panel of members, Anne and Alan, was joined by Colin Garrow and Fiona Hamilton. Colin’s gardening passion became his career and ultimately he was Renfrewshire’s Park Superintendant. Anne and Fiona specialized in Amenity Horticulture. Alan, like many gardeners, specializes in vegetables. The panel was thus well qualified to field all questions: Hellebores, are currently in fashion. They like shady, gravelly sites and will produce numerous seedlings. To get a true plant, lift and divide after flowering but for a surprise, bring on a few seedlings. Equally promiscuous are Meconopsis which will grow profusely in the right conditions, particularly after a period of stratification (cold temperatures). Try sprinkling seeds around the mother plant, then wait till spring for signs of seedlings.

An established Skimmia was shedding yellow-tinted leaves (chlorosis). Could a new dog in the neighbourhood be to blame? This was unlikely. Skimmias can be a little temperamental over soil conditions but, in this instance, old age might be the reason. A good iron-based feed (Sequestrene) might help and, as a last resort, a good prune.

Apples and Plums should never be pruned at the same time. To avoid the fungal spores which cause the disease ‘Silverleaf’ in stone fruits - which would enter newly-cut branches in spring - Plums, Damsons and Cherries, should be pruned at the end of summer. Apples are pruned and shaped in spring.

The long, cold winter has affected chitting potatoes. These are ready but growing conditions are not. To warm the soil, cover with cloches, weed suppressant fabric or even old carpet. For those working on school projects, the answer is to bring on potatoes in grow-bags, a greenhouse or poly-tunnel.

A gardener’s joy in her tomatoes was diminished by the sight of discoloured, curling leaves and blotchy fruits which, although delicious in stews, could not be seen near a salad. This was likely to be early blight. Vigilance is essential, particularly in a poly-tunnel where temperature, air ventilation and watering are key and less easy to control than in a greenhouse. two tomato plants per grow-bag were recommended, preferably with 2 x 10” filled pots sunk into the compost.

We are all aware of global changes and changing weather conditions were a theme through the evening. This informal exchange of information, at a local level, between the experts and audience was very helpful. If you have a gardening query or would like a little gardening advice, join us at one of our meetings and one of our members will be happy to help you.

We next meet on 12th April at The Legion at 8pm, and our guest speaker will be Ewen Donaldson who will talk about The First 200 Years of The Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Why not come along and relax and learn?

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bishopton Art Group to exhibit in Bridge of Weir

Let's hear from our Councillors

Tuesday 1st May - Friday 1st June at The Bridge, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NR Between Tuesday 1st May and Friday 1st June at The Bridge, Community Centre and Post Office, 63 Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NR, members of Bishopton Art Group will be exhibiting a selection of their paintings.

The paintings will also be available for sale. Access to the exhibition is free and is available during The Bridge’s opening hours.

This exhibition follows on from the Group’s previous successful exhibitions at The Bridge. The artists use a variety of mediums and styles.

The exhibition at The Bridge is open during the Centre’s normal opening hours: Monday 9am – 5pm, Tuesday 1pm – 5pm; Wednesday 10am – 2pm; Thursday 10am – 2pm; Friday 1pm – 5pm; & Saturday 9am – 1pm hours.

(Sunday closed) Jack Watson, Chairman Bishopton Art Group said,

of

“Bishopton Art Group is pleased to announce that once again we will be exhibiting at ‘The Bridge’ in Bridge of Weir. The exhibition starts on Tuesday 1st May and runs for almost 5 weeks.

"There will be a great selection of paintings on display. The paintings will also be available to buy.

Members of Bishopton Art Group are grateful for the support that they receive.”

Cllr Natalie Don

Cllr James MacLaren

Renfrewshire Council has now set the budget for the 2018/19 financial year, having listened to local people and put their concerns at the top of the priorities. The condition of the roads has been a concern for many local residents which is why I am thrilled that the Council has devoted the highest ever investment, £7.2 million, into our roads and footpaths.

Oh my, what did I say about a particularly harsh winter? I had no idea, but the Beast from the East certainly snowed us, and here it is again! What a winter!

It is very important that all areas of Renfrewshire feel like they are benefitting from improvements and investment which is why we have established a village investment fund and committed £1.5 million to improving our local play parks and green spaces.

This is coupled with an increased and dedicated investment to support the Team Up to Clean Up campaign and enhance the cleanliness of our towns and villages. The Team Up to Clean Up campaign has been very successful so far and has seen the council step up their efforts in relation to street sweeping, litter picking and gully cleaning whilst also inspiring residents to get involved with an increasing number of clean up events across Renfrewshire. With the good work that has been carried out so far, I am very enthusiastic about the improvements that this extra investment will bring.

After much uncertainty and negotiations between McGill’s and SPT services 8 and 19 have ceased. I am very unhappy with this decision and find it hard to believe that there is now no direct link into Paisley and Inchinnan Industrial Estate, for residents of Bridge of Weir and the surrounding villages. Representations were made to both SPT and McGill’s pushing for these services to be maintained, alternative suggestions were also put forward to both SPT and McGill’s which could have limited the impact on local residents however, despite my best efforts, the decision

by McGill’s and SPT to end the services has been made. There will now be a revised Service 1/1A and a new Service 2/2A and full details of these services can be found online. I am very disappointed by this and want to assure residents that I will continue to pursue a more positive outcome. Concerns have also been raised with me over changes to the X7 timetable and can confirm I have raised this with McGill’s and will continue to keep residents up to date.

I was pleased that the issue which I recently highlighted regarding Bridge of Weir residents having to travel to Greenock Job Centre for Universal Credit appointments has now been raised by Gavin Newlands MP in Parliament and equally, action is now being taken to end this. The Minister for Employment has now confirmed that people should now be able to attend Johnstone jobcentre or at the very least, have their travel expenses re-imbursed.

Renfrewshire Council recently set its yearly budget and the Conservative Group were the only Party to put forward an amendment to the SNP Administration’s motion. Our amendment included having a fund to support bringing non-adopted roads and pavements into the council estate.

This could have helped a number of villages get funding for upgrading roads and pavements such as Clevans Rd, Mill of Gryffe Road in Bridge of Weir, and the pavements in the Craigton Estate in Bishopton, but unfortunately this was not agreed.

Our amendment also provided a fund to support communal repairs in private housing stock where repair work has stalled owing to a lack of agreement from each owner to pay for repairs.

Again this was not agreed on though it works well in Glasgow.

Since council tax provides only a small proportion of funding to the council, our Group put forward a freeze on the Council tax. More than £48M is in council reserves and we did not feel it necessary to burden the council tax payer further. Recent increases in business rates, increases in council tax in bands E through H and Scotland’s own extra personal taxation, make it only fair to monitor the effects of these earlier increases giving people and their businesses some respite.

On a more successful note, my motion to help wardens control dog fouling was passed. Daventry District Council made it illegal to walk a dog without carrying a dog poo bag. A similar law exists in Australia. I have asked for the Council to investigate and bring a report back to committee on the feasibility of making it illegal to walk your dog in Renfrewshire without carrying a bag to pick up your dog poo.

Working with you and improving our local area.

Please feel free to contact me with any of your concerns, and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time.

Your Ward 11 Councillors ... for Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir

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Transport

The final evening meeting of this session will be the AGM and Mini Show on April 5th at 7.15pm for 7.30pm at the British Legion hall. Show categories include knitted or crotchet items for premature babies, photographs of sunsets, hand made Christmas cards plus baking and preserves. There will be special awards for the best dressed baby doll, a winning round of soda bread and a flower arrangement in a shell.

Bridge of Weir SWI

Bridge Of Weir Community Council During the past month the Community Council has strived to get a solution to the uncertainty of Village bus routes after McGill’s announced they were to withdraw Service 19: the direct route serving Bridge of Weir, Paisley and Johnstone and detrimental changes to the X7 losing direct links to Port Glasgow and Greenock.

The new services 1/1A and 2/2A supported by the SPT and operated by McGill’s are to operate circular routes incorporating Kilmacolm Bridge of Weir, Houston, Linwood and Johnstone. At first glance a very confusing set up which will result in considerable upheaval for bus users getting to their place of work, attending hospital appointments and visits and carrying out their normal day to day business.

Elections Community Council Interim Elections: Due to the recent challenging weather conditions the procedural meetings for the Interim Election were unable to go ahead. New dates have now been advised for the nomination period. They are 30th April till 11th May. Please contact Chairman Sandy Clark on sandyclark01@ live.co.uk or visit Bridge of Weir Community Councils Facebook page for updates.

Flight Paths Glasgow Airport Flight Path consultation: Due to concern of possible noise disturbance, two members of the community council attended the consultation ‘drop-in’ event held in Johnstone town hall. After the tour and explanation of why the flight paths for ‘take-off’ need modernising, the Director of Operations at Glasgow Airport demonstrated what effect it would have for Bridge of Weir residents.

The Landing routes for flights remain unchanged. The alterations to the flight paths affect ‘take-off’ only. The analysis of the noise effect for the proposed standard take-off paths show Bridge of Weir as having a slight noise reduction to that experienced today.

Planning

In June we will have our summer outing, this year to Glamis Castle. This promises to be an excellent day out. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Lace Group Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (10am - 12noon) during the winter months. If you’d like to try lacemaking we can provide materials & tuition. For further details phone (01505) 613967. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

At Renfrewshire Council’s March Housing and Planning Board meeting planning permission was granted to erect 12 detached dwellings on land at Old Ranfurly Golf Course Lawmarnock Road.

Police Report The Police reported to the March meeting 8 recorded crimes from the previous month of which 3 were detected. Detected crimes were a robbery, anti-social behaviour and a road traffic offence.

The Police informed us they had been made aware of anti- social behaviour on the cycle track. Foot patrols have been carried out; youths spoken to and given appropriate advice. They also confirmed that there has not been a rise in the number of wheelie bins being stolen and set alight. However there has been instances of bin fires, probably where bins have been left out.

Budget All three Renfrewshire Councillors informed the meeting that Renfrewshire Council had set the budget for next year and the Council Tax was set to rise by 3%.

present An evening of light entertainment on Saturday 21st April 2018 in St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall at 7pm, refreshments available. Tickets £5 with all proceeds to Robin House Children’s Hospice. Phone 01505 614943

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

The Community Council enlisted the support of our MP, MSP’s and Councillors and are grateful to those who took up the case on our behalf. We had regular discussions with officials from Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT) regards the introduction of subsidised routes and new time-tabling. We are extremely disappointed with the final outcome leaving village commuters with no direct link to Paisley and few direct services to Port Glasgow and Greenock.

Councillor McCulloch welcomed the new monies for Social Housing Councillor Don announced the administration‘s budget will see the highest investment in Roads ever in Renfrewshire and will devote £370,000 to the establishment of a village investment fund.

Councillor MacLaren raised a motion at the council’s budget meeting for funding to upgrade private pavements. This was rejected by Council. Residents around Clevans Road area will be disappointed by this and will need to continue the dangerous practice of walking with prams on what is a busy road. churches in Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir ......................

Renfrewshire Council’s Head of Roads Gordon McNeil has accepted our LANGBANK PARISH CHURCH: Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Crèche and young invitation to attend the April Community Council meeting which will be held people’s group, the Welcomers. Tea/coffee after the service. Church service starts at in the Cargill Hall at 7pm on Tuesday the 3rd of April at 7pm.

10am. Come along and meet in the Hall from 9.50am. Charity No. SC015085.

d your Please ad hall y communit r list u o o t details info@ o t il - ema r.co.uk advertize

FREELAND CHURCH: Rev KN Gray BA BD. Sunday Morning Service 10.30am. Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and Cornerstone. Sunday Evening Service 7pm www.freeland.org.uk Holy Week Services: Wednesday 28th March 7.30pm - Darkest Hour. Friday 30th March 2pm - The Final Hour. Sunday 1st April 10.30am - Easter Sunday Family Service ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, Johnston Rd, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3EE. St Mary’s Episcopal Church is a small, lively and mature Christian community. We are united by our belief in Jesus, the One in whom God fully revealed Himself and through whom we have life in all it’s fullness. Come and worship with us. Our main Service is held on Sundays at 10am.

A warm welcome awaits you. Contact: Rev. Heller G. 01505 872961 www.heartlandsec. org/BoW ST MACHAR’S RANFURLY CHURCH: Sunday morning service 10.30am. Holy Week Services: Thursday 29th March 7.30pm - Communion. Friday 30th March 7.30pm - Good Friday Service. Sunday 1st April 10.30am - Easter Sunday Family Service. Everyone welcome HOPE HALL: Sun 1pm Sunday School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; Mon 6.30pm Investigators for Kids, 8pm Bible Study and Prayer.

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Freeland Messy Cafe will open for the first time on Saturday 21st April from 2.30pm to 4.30pm run by the Bridge of Weir Messy Church team.

Shop News – an extensive variety of Greeting Cards are on sale to cover most special occasions. Our usual stationery items are always in stock.

During April we shall add a variety of Scottish themed gifts to our stock.

We would be delighted to welcome you all for hot drinks, home baking, lots of chat, activities, music and a bible story.

Admission free. All children need to be accompanied. Anyone is welcome (children not required).

Post Office - going on holiday soon? Ask Donald, Anne or Stuart for leaflets on Travel Insurance and Travel Moneycard and to request Euros on Demand or order other Currencies.

The Bridge

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Freeland Messy Cafe

We are hoping to organise other activities as the year progresses.

Find us on Facebook (Bridge of Weir Messy Church). bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Senior Citizens Club We meet at Cargill Hall every 2nd and 4th Wednesday 7pm - 9.15pm. 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

Singing for Wellbeing

A fun, no-pressure choir singing feel-good songs every Tuesday from 6pm 7.15pm and Fridays at 2pm - 3.15pm in the Bishopton Community Centre.

Help is at Hand within your Community Centre – Do you have any issues to resolve? An appointment with one of your local MSP’s, MP or Citizens Advice Bureau staff is the answer. Please call in to find out the times of their surgeries.

An evening out at The Bridge – twice monthly, you can enjoy a film along with complimentary refreshments in The Bridge. Please collect a Programme.

Web Site - we are currently upgrading our web site. More details to follow next month.

Books - a reasonable selection of pre loved books can be bought for a modest price. We have a number of regular customers - why not become one of them?

Cafe - please visit our cafe where a warming cup of tea or coffee can be enjoyed in comfortable surroundings.

As always we wish to thank our dedicated team of volunteers who, through their commitment, enable The Bridge Community Centre, Shop and more importantly Post Office to serve the village.

£500k investment in Paisley 2021 cultural legacy Plans to build a lasting legacy of Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 are taking a major step forward. A £500,000 investment to develop the area’s creative sector has just been unveiled.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Langbank SWI

The partners behind the bid are now working on a detailed legacy plan to ensure Paisley’s journey continues and deliver on the vision of the bid over the next decade.

One of the key strands of that is in growing the area’s independent cultural sector - and the half-million-pound investment unveiled today by Renfrewshire Council - using money set aside to fund the 2021 year had the town won the title - aims to do that. It comes in two parts.

The first is £360,000 for a new Organisational Development Fund to grow the independent creative sector locally over the next three years.

The second part is a £140,000 top-up for the existing Culture Heritage and Events Fund, allowing it to run until 2021. The fund ran alongside the bid with the aims of increasing cultural participation, showcasing the town’s story, and allowing local talent to work with organisations of national stature.

It has supported more than 80 projects to date with highlights including teenage animator Morgan Spence’s Lego animation about the town, local dance group Right2Dance bringing Sir Matthew Bourne’s Re:Bourne company here for a week-long residency, and local music charity Loud ‘n’ Proud’s Bungalow Bar musical on how a small Paisley venue hosted the biggest names in the UK punk scene Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, chair of Renfrewshire Leisure - whose Cultural Services team will administer both funds - said: “The Paisley 2021 bid has already changed Paisley for the better - it raised our profile, made people aware of our untold story, and brought a sense of self-confidence back to a town which needed that boost. And it’s important people know that journey will continue.

“By helping the local creative sector grow through this funding, we equip them to stage more events, festivals and projects which showcase what the area has to offer and bring people here, with all the benefits that brings to the local economy.

“The investment in cultural capacity is just one of several parts of the 2021 legacy - we already have a confirmed £100m+ investment in town centre venues and infrastructure.

“All those benefits that will be felt throughout all of Renfrewshire - not just Paisley... There’s loads going on to feel excited by.”

For more information on what Paisley has to offer, visit www.paisley.is

This months talk from the Port Glasgow charity, Branching Out, based at Parklea in Port Glasgow.

We heard about the varied training and social activities that their clients participate in at their premises in Port Glasgow.

This small local charity depends on donations to support adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Their garden centre gives horticultural training to their clients, and sells plants to the public.

Many plants are raised from seed in their extensive greenhouses, and if you are looking for healthy plants, please go and visit them.

They will soon have summer bedding plants for sale.

The photo displays some of our floral competition entries, and the wonderful home baking provided for supper.

The next meeting is our AGM at Gleddoch Hotel on Thursday 19th April at 7pm.

We are looking forward to a lovely meal, and awarding our annual prizes.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Dates for your Diary On the 7th of April our Guild has their Annual Spring Fayre in St Machar’s Church Hall from 10am to 12.30pm On the 21st of April at 7pm the Masqueraders have their annual performance – a jolly mix of music and drama for all to enjoy. Look out for posters or our Facebook page for ticket information.

26th April 12noon The Terrace Lunch Club, everyone welcome for a soup lunch with coffee/tea after.

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Kilmacolm Surgeries Every 4th Monday PC Jamieson, the local neighbourhood officer, will hold a surgery in the Community Centre between 10.30 - 11.30am.

Please pop in and see him if you want to share any concerns or need advice.

kilmacolm & quarriers

RBS confirms Kilmacolm ATM will stay

kilmacolm & quarriers

Derek Mackay MSP is delighted to receive confirmation from RBS that the ATM in Kilmacolm will remain in its current location.

When RBS announced the closure of its Kilmacolm branch in late 2015, the bank gave assurances that the ATM would remain.

Following the recent sale of the former bank building in the village, Kilmacolm MSP Derek Mackay contacted RBS with regards to the cash machine.

Mr Mackay said: “I am pleased to advise that RBS have confirmed the ATM will remain at its current location in the village.

“I hope this reassures any resident with concerns over the cash machines future, given the sale of the bank’s former building.” kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

kilmacolm & quarriers

1st April Easter Sunday services – 9.30am Holy Communion at Knapps Loch 11am Easter Worship at The Old Kirk with the celebration of Holy Communion Social Events Sadly OK Fest (March 2nd - 4th) and Outlook (5th March) had to be cancelled because of the terrible weather. This was a great disappointment after all the hard work of setting up the programme. Outlook with guest William Kean will now be held on 20th September.

OK Fest organisers are hoping to re-schedule various elements of the programme and are working towards a new date for the ‘Brian McGlynn and friends’ session of contemporary/easy listening music. Tickets purchased for the March date will be transferrable. The new date will be posted on the Old Kirk website, Facebook page and in The Advertizer.

Outlook Outlook is a social community group in Kilmacolm that was created to welcome everyone from the whole community, young and old, to come to share friendship and fellowship together. It is led by the Community Issues team of Kilmacolm Old Kirk. The group meets in Kidston Hall on the 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoons monthly, from 2pm - 4pm. The programme includes invited speakers, afternoon tea, items of community issues for discussion, plus entertaining activities.

Programme for April: 5th April – Heartstart – Talk by Dr Morag Thow with visual aids of simple skills that save lives. Plus a briefing on Advocacy from Inverclyde Advice Group.

In the words of Taggart......

THERE’S BEEN A MURDER!

19th April – ‘Stories of a Councillor’ with David Wilson.

President's Blog

Summer Fete/Barbeque - Saturday 2nd June

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society are thrilled to be performing our first murder mystery in a very long time - Murder Inn by Howard Voland and Keith McGregor, directed by Ruth Quigley.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Society Industrial Section: Schedules now available in all usual venues shops, schools and village centre.

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Guide Hut to Hire

A great venue with easy access near to the village centre. Newly refurbished main hall, with additional kitchen facilities and outdoor area. Perfect for children’s parties, weekly classes and one off special occasions. Anyone wanting to hire the Guide Hut please contact Roz on 07584 359007.

When a group of tourists make an unscheduled stop at the Barnsley Inn a night of mayhem and murder ensues.

But who survives and lives to tell the tale? Well you will need to come along to find out!

We rely on your support so please be part of our audience on Thursday 26th, Friday 27th or Saturday 28th April at 7.30pm in the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm and see if you survive The Murder Inn?!

Kate Robinson, President Tickets will be available from Cross Cafe or by contacting Rosie Thirde 01505 873088

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Volunteers needed If you have a spare couple of hours a week and would like the opportunity to support a local cause, Ardgowan Hospice are in desperate need for volunteers within their retail shops. We have one shop in Kilmacolm and 3 in Greenock: Unit 1, Carnock Street Unit 4a, Hamilton Way, Oak Mall Shopping Centre West Stewart Street We have vacancies from sales assistant to clerical support, no experience is necessary as full training is provided.

Invitation to Christianity Explored Grace Church Kilmacolm invites you to find out more about Jesus, why he is important and what the Bible teaches. Christianity Explored is a 7-week course for everyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith over a cup of coffee and cake. All welcome.

The course will run from 7.30pn – 9pm each Thursday beginning on 19th April in The Cargill Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4LE. For more details please contact: gracechurchkilmacolm@gmail.com Grace Church Kilmacolm in association with Dowanvale Free Church of Scotland

For more information contact Linda Kelly, Retail Development Manager, linda.kelly@ardhosp.co.uk or 07919 216353

Scottish Charity Number: SC038274 kilmacolm & quarriers

Let's hear from our Councillors

kilmacolm & quarriers

Councillor Stephen McCabe

Cllr David Wilson

The Council budget for 2018/19 was approved on 15 March. The Council’s total revenue budget for next year is £190.4m, which is actually an increase of £2.7m on the current year. Despite this increase the Council has had to make nearly £6.3m of savings to balance the books. The reasons for this is that some of the Scottish Government funding received is ringfenced for particular purposes and the remainder does not make any allowance for pay awards to staff, inflation, UK Government pension changes or increased demand for particular services like social care. So on a like for like basis the funding we will receive in 2018/19 is not sufficient to maintain all our current services.

I was surprised to receive an email accusing me of having "voted" for house building at the West of Quarry Drive site. I can assure all readers that there has not been a “vote” by any Councillors on any of the 10 sites requested by developers around Kilmacolm and Quarriers. Local Development Plan officers have suggested that their preferred site for the 75 houses that will be required of us is West of Quarry Drive. The initial need in Kilmacolm as determined by the overarching structure plan is 135 houses and this is reduced to 75 by the likes of Balrossie and Smithy Brae.

The next step would be for the LDP, if agreed by Councillors on the Environment and Regeneration Committee, to go to public consultation.

Full details of the savings agreed on 15th March are available on the Council’s website. They include cuts to regeneration funding; increased parking charges in Greenock; the withdrawal of free swimming for over 60s; the introduction of a £2.50 weekly charge for community alarms; the withdrawal of the kerbside glass collection service; and increases in burial and cremation charges. The proposal to transfer Kilmacolm Library to a community group to run was rejected.

The only time I personally would now vote on the West of Quarry Drive site is if it came up for consideration by the Planning Board, which I Chair.

The LDP is a five year process and contains examinations at various stages.

I attended a public meeting with regard to the Carsemeadow site in Quarriers. A discussion was also conducted with regard to a Kibble proposal for a primary school and a secure house in the village.

The Knapps and North Dennistoun application will probably be the first to be determined possibly by examination by the Unfortunately unless the Scottish Government reporter. provides the Council with better funding settlements We have had problems with refuse collection at lower in future years these will not be the last cuts we make Smithy Brae and Rosebank due to the construction at the in the life of this Council. Arguably far more difficult former Institute. Because of a lack of cooperation from decisions lie ahead. the builders we are now considering a temporary traffic regulation order on Smithy Brae to legally facilitate access.

Cllr. Christopher Curley

The Inverclyde budget was approved by a full meeting of the Council on 15th of March. The SNP decided to continue to propose a two year budget strategy at Council, which included a commitment to free school meals for primary school pupils and a £4.5m family poverty fund. Our proposed budget was ultimately unsuccessful. Details of the approved budget are available on the Council’s website.

I am particularly sad to hear that Gibb Stuart's Kilmacolm store will be closing at some point in the coming months.

This does not affect their Bridge of Weir store which will continue to trade and offer a delivery service to the local area.

Parking in the village is a problem and a survey was conducted on the 1st and 3rd of February to determine the extent of need for long term parking. Council parking policy has not helped our village traders and we must listen to On the 28th of March the Environment and them.

Regeneration Committee will consider the draft Local The Kilmacolm/Glasgow bus will now terminus in the Development Plan. After the plan is issued, you will village. The 531 will run half hourly between the village and have the opportunity to comment and object to draft Greenock Tesco. These alterations should not effect the plan. Any unresolved objections will be referred to a service.

Reporter.

Show schedules now available The 183rd Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show will take place in the spectacular setting of the Knapps Loch on Saturday 12th May from 9am.

There will be hundreds of entries in our wide range of classes - sheep, cows, horses (light and heavy), children’s cattle, and dogs.

A very popular part of the Show is the Children’s Pet Show. Kids 16 years and under can bring your wee pet along everyone gets a prize! Pets must be entered by 11am on the day of the show, but no cats or dogs are allowed.

The Industrial Tent will showcase the domestic arts, crafts and baking by adults and children. Entry forms and fees must be submitted by Friday 11th May. There will be a dog show for all hairy hounds - dogs do not need to be KC registered and entries are taken on showday from 10.30am at the Dog Ring.

Light Horse classes, including cross country, showjumping, showing and games, will run all day and entries can be made on showday at the Horse Tent at double the fees shown in the schedule. Light Horse classes can be entered online at www.kilmacolmshow. co.uk at normal fees until Friday 4th May. Schedules and entry forms for all classes can be downloaded from the website - www.kilmacolmshow.co.uk.

This is great day out for the whole family - human and hairy!

More information, schedules and online entry for Light Horses are available on the website www.KilmacolmShow. co.uk We are on facebook, twitter and instagram

Your Ward 1 Councillors ... for Inverclye East (includes Kilmacolm & Quarriers) My surgeries are 9th April 5-6pm St Mary’s Episcopal Port Glasgow 28th April 10-11am Cargill.

Surgeries: 18th April 7-8pm Kilmacolm Community Centre.

25th April 7-8pm St Francis School, Port Glasgow.

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Advice Surgery: Kilmacolm Community Centre from 6.30-7.30pm. on Tuesday 24 April.

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Kilmacolm Community Council Improvements to Village Centres A number of suggestions for improvements to the Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village centres and for the provision of additional community facilities were considered at the 27th March meeting of the Kilmacolm Community Council.

The approved suggestions - which will be published - are to be funded from a community budget made available by Inverclyde Council.

Local Development Plan - public consultation The proposed Inverclyde Local Development Plan was published on 29th March for public consultation lasting until 31st May. The proposed plan as it affects Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village will be explained and discussed at the 24th April meeting of the Kilmacolm Community Council. There are implications for Kilmacolm and the community is encouraged to participate in the consultation and attend the meeting to express their views. The final approved Local Development Plan will be adopted in 2019.

Kind, Konsiderate Kilmacolm

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolmics quiet rightly think of themselves as part of a kind, considerate and caring community. Unfortunately things have deteriorated somewhat of late and our pavements and footpaths have become more hazardous because of a lack of consideration by some homeowners, some dog owners and some drivers. There are many instances of trees and bushes in private properties overhanging the pavements. There is dog poo left on pavements and footpaths by some dog owners. An increasing number of motor vehicles are partly parked on pavements. All these inconsiderate behaviours and acts are a hazard and sometimes a serious danger to pedestrians. Please give a thought to others of the community and visitors to our village. T rim the offending trees and bushes back to the edge of the property. Pick up your dog mess and dispose of it considerately and safely. Keep all four wheels of your vehicle on the road when parked. Keep Kilmacolm Konsiderate.

churches in Kilmacolm & Quarriers ................................................

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. Tea/coffee served after service. Sunday School and Crèche. Solas Bereavement Group 2nd Thursday each month at 2pm in Kidston Hall.

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.

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 11am. Rosary Tuesdays 6.30pm. Prayer group meets Thursdays 7.30pm. Further information and contact details www.stcolmsparish.co.uk. All welcome.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Angel Voices & Voices+

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! www.heartlandsec.org/KLM/index.html Contacts: Revd. Heller G.P 01505 872961 / Maureen Russell (Pastoral Assistant) 01505 872905.

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 6.30pm for young people of high school age. Half night of prayer: 7pm – midnight, 4th Friday of each month. ‘The Gatherin’ is at 7pm on the fourth Sunday of each month. Maundy Thursday Holy Communion Service - 7pm, 29th March. Good Friday Meditation around the cross - 2.30pm, 30th March. Easter Sunday Family service - 10.30am, 1st April. Please come and invite others: all welcome!

ils Any deta sed? we've mis m to email the izer. rt info@adve co.uk

St Fillan’s Community Children’s Choir at the Inverclyde Music Festival '18 Contact Maureen Russell email: maureenmrussell@hotmail.com or mob.

07905 950028.

You are invited to come to an Afternoon Tea Concert in St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road Kilmacolm on Saturday 5th May 2pm – 3.30pm Coffee, Tea, Home Baking, Sandwiches, Scones and Cake & Raffle.

The Choir will give a little Concert of Songs from their Repertoire at 2.30pm.

Tickets £4 – please pay at the door

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

churches in Houston ........................................................................

HOUSTON AND KILLELLAN: Services will be led by Rev. Ian Bell unless stated otherwise. Sunday 1st April - 8am - Early morning Easter Service (bacon butty breakfast). 11am - Morning Worship and children’s Easter egg hunt.

Sunday 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th April - 11am. Morning Worship.

ST FILLAN’S, Main St, Houston: Sun Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am & 11am.

Weekday Masses: Mon - Sat 9.30am. Rosary: Tue, Thurs & Sat 9.10am.

Exposition: Mon, Wed & Fri 9.05am. Confessions: Sat 10am - 10.30am and after Vigil Mass. Baptism: By arrangement. Parish Priest: Rev. Joseph Burke. Pastoral Assistant: Sr. Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514).

Address: ‘Abbotsfield’, St. Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T. 01505 612046.

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

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Pop up shop comes to Houston Looking for lovely high quality, fresh fruit & veg? Then come along to the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston every Tuesday between 9.30am & 12noon as Roots of Linwood will be there with its weekly pop-up shop!

So, who is ‘Roots of Linwood’? Linwood Community Development Trust (LCDT) was formed by a group of volunteers from the local community, who want to improve health and wellbeing, reduce social inequalities and build social capital within Linwood. They have formed an alliance with other groups to create the positive changes needed to make Linwood a more attractive place with a more vibrant and healthier community.

Following extensive consultation with the local community, the Trust has now developed a number of projects to address issues which local residents identified as being important. These are Roots of Linwood, Linwood in Bloom, Light Up Linwood, Linwood Community Choir, Kit & Caboodle & The Mossedge Village.

‘Roots of Linwood’ offers High quality, low cost, fresh fruit and vegetables and all surpluses are reinvested to support building a better future for Linwood.

Orders can easily be placed online by following this link and if you order before 12noon, FREE next day delivery is available.

Opening Hours are Monday to Friday: 9am to 1pm, Friday: 9am to 4pm and Saturday: 9am to 1pm. Find them at Unit 19, Mossedge Ind. Est. Linwood, PA3 3HR. Tel: 01505 337002 Orders: https://www.linwoodtrust.org.uk/store/account/quickorder/ houston, crosslee & brookfield

Let's hear from our Councillors

Cllrs Audrey Doig

I, along with other Councillors and Tom Arthur MSP and Gavin Newlands MP, have met with the management of McGills Buses and lobbied very hard to try and stop the withdrawal of McGills services no 8 and no 19. This backward and retrograde proposal will simply not be frequent enough to meet the needs of all my constituents in Linwood, Houston, Crosslee, and Brookfield. My constituents in our villages have made clear that at least two buses an hour is the minimum which McGills should offer.

At the last full Council meeting I seconded a motion calling on McGills management to play fair by the villages. For the crucial and material change is that under the new proposals neither Brookfield, Houston, or Crosslee would have a direct bus link to Paisley, so commuters would need to change buses rather than make one smooth trip to their place of employment.

This is simply unacceptable as if we want people to go green and leave the car then we need to make that a realistic option. McGills have failed my constituents badly on this.

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston (Houston Old School Trust)

Monday to Friday Woodlands Out of School 01505 615438 Coffee Shop Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm Sat, 9am-4pm MONDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 1pm - Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 | Diaporama @ 7.30pm (9th R2) | Sewing Group (Weekly) @ 10am - 12noon (R4) | Baby Massage (Weekly) @ 10am - 12noon TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (Weekly) @ 10am - Dawn Campbell 07789 262 350 | Galaxy Dance (Weekly) @ 4pm - 7pm | Yoga (Weekly) @ 7pm - M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Councillor Surgery @ 6.45pm – 7.30pm (3rd) WEDNESDAY Big Kids Little Learners @ 10am – 11am - Janine Neil 07870 697017 | Gryffe Melody Makers @ 7pm | Community Council @ 7.30pm - 18th | Gryffe Camera Club (Weekly) @ 7.30pm | Galaxy Dance (Weekly) @ 4pm - 7pm THURSDAY Gryffe Quilting Group @ 1.15pm - 3.15pm - (19th - 10am) | Primary Colours (Weekly) @ 3.30pm – 4.30pm | Crafty Friends @ 7.30pm (5th & 19th) | Folk Club (weekly) @ 8pm iaintdawson@gmail.com 07786 078952 FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 10.30am - M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Big Kids Little Learners (Weekly) @ 1pm – 2pm - Janine Neil 07870 697017 | Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 3.30pm - 7pm | M.P. Surgery Gavin Newlands @ 12.30pm – 1.30pm (13th) SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 9.30am - 5pm 11.30am – 12noon (7th)

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Councillors Surgery

SUNDAY Baptist Church (Weekly) @ 11am and 6pm Centre Patrons PLEASE request date or time changes due to Holidays from your Group Leader or Club spokesperson.

Booking enquiries to: Ian Simpson 01505 612203 Bill Haddow 01505 690693 Stewart Scally 01505 674277 hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop houston, crosslee & brookfield

Parlez Vous Francais French Conversation group meets every Wednesday from 9.30am till 12noon at Fox & Hounds. Informal tuition same venue 2pm - 4pm. Phone 01505 871 343, 07463 570464 or email avril.forbes2015@ outlook.com

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Crafty Friends Crafty Hobbies is what we do Come and join our Crafty crew Come & learn some Crafty makes Followed by some tea and cakes We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursdays in the month at 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre Houston. No previous craft experience necessary. We are just a group of ladies who enjoy making things! Contact - Lorna Cairns 612844 or Shirley White 610721.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston and Killellan Agricultural Society Houston and Killellan Agricultural Society Annual Show will be held on Saturday 2nd June. Schedules for Craft and Baking available from the Paper Shop and Houston Post Office, Isabelle Stuart 01505 613479 or e-mail: issistuart@gmail.com

Your Ward 10 Councillor ... for Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield & Linwood

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Houston and Killellan Kirk Carnival This years theme is The Blue Planet and we are hoping to emphasise the importance of environmental issues, promoting awareness of local recycling, avoiding waste of any kind and generally being conscious of our surroundings and helping others to do what they can.

We are pleased to announce that this years Queen and King have been selected. The Queen is Abigail Nelson and her attendant is Amy Spearing, for the first time we have a King, Angus Feely and his attendant, Murray Gray.

Attention is now recruiting helpers and looking for donations to cover all aspects of the event. It is important to remember that the Carnival is one of the highlights of Houston village calendar and we need the support of the community to make it successful.

The plant stall is always a major attraction on the day and the team are always on the lookout for donations of plants and cuttings. Please contact Norma McBeath (01505 613763) or Peter McKerrell (01505 872448) who will appreciate any offerings.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield Village Trust update Purchase of Merchiston Field

The White Elephant Stall is another popular stall who are looking for donations which can be uplifted if necessary (no large items of furniture or any electrical appliances. Please contact Mary Reid (01505 613770) or Kathryn McCartney (01505 613741) who will be happy to help.

An Extraordinary General Meeting of Brookfield Village Trust took place on 27th February to approve the purchase of the Merchiston field from Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board. The field lies between the village and the new Weirs Wynd housing development. Funds were raised within the village and at the meeting, members of the Village Trust voted unanimously to agree the purchase.

Remember Home Baking Stall this is always very popular so get baking and fill the freezer tearoom and baking stall would be very grateful.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

There are many other stalls, this year there will be no book stall, soft goods or jewellery stall. They will be replaced by a label on or very nearly new clothing for children under 5 stall. Details for this please contact Aillean Shaw 07814 310022. There is also going to be a Home Produce stall preserves (glass jars) shortbread, dumpling etc., another first will be a photo booth where you can have fun dressing up and have your photograph taken, (after face painting.)

Food Stall: Ina Jefferson (612962) Lorna Kinloch (614159). Non Food Stall: Heather Hughes(612962). Tearoom: Moira Dunlop (331409). Jean Mills(614326). Sideshows: Charles Green (690107). Co-ordinators: Mike Farley and Maggie Deans

houston, crosslee & brookfield

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Saturday 21st April from 7pm, Brookfield Village Hall

Got a sewing machine but never used it or just lost confidence? Do you want to know how to raise/lower a hem or change a broken zip? We might just have the solution.

Quiz Night Brookfield

Get together with your brainiest friends, family members and/or neighbours and come along for a fun filled evening! There will also be an opportunity to have a punt on a porker with the added attraction of Pig Racing as seen at last year’s Gala Day. Doors/Bar from 7pm with the Quiz starting at 7.30pm.

Admission £3 per person.

Max 6 per team. Please e-mail brookfieldvpa@gmail. com to book.

Sewing Class

A new SEWING CLASS has started in the Village Hall Library on a Tuesday evening from 7pm - 9pm. Come along and learn essential techniques every Beginner or Refresher Sewer should know. £10 per class.

Places for 6-week block must be booked in advance.

Contact brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com for more information or to book a place.

Sunday 29th April from 12noon - 4.30pm Brookfield Village Hall Admission £1.00 Tea Room with Home Baking East Neuk by Kathy Leask

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Heartstart Training in Brookfield MONDAY 16th APRIL Heartstart training sessions will be held in the Village Hall on Monday 16th April from 10am – 12noon and 2pm – 4pm. These courses are free of charge and it only takes two hours to learn the skills that may someday save a life. Every week in Scotland, 70 people suffer cardiac arrest and more than 3,500 people per year are treated by the Ambulance Service – only one in 20 people will survive. Without resuscitation, cardiac arrest is always fatal – but performing CPR could double that person’s chance of survival. Even if you have previously attended a course, feel free to come along for a refresher. Please e-mail brookfieldvpa@ gmail.com for further information and/or to book a place, stating which session you prefer. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Crosslee SWI Our last full meeting of the year will be on Wednesday 11th April at 7.30pm when we hold our AGM and Spring Show. On the 9th May we have our annual Charity Evening in support of Macmillan Cancer Care.

We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston on the second Wednesday of the month, please come and join us, you will be made very welcome. If you wish further information please contact, Arlene MacKay on 07932 459994.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Remember the parade and get your group or organization in and display your efforts to save the planet. At the front of the Carrick Centre you will be entertained by a variety of local artistes. All proceeds from this years Carnival will be for the Church and the Community.

Brookfield Art Club Art Show

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Who, Why, How? Are you interested in discussing who we are, why we are here, predestination or free will, western philosophy versus eastern philosophy? We meet in Fox and Hounds once a fortnight. Contact 01505 871343 or 07463 570464 or email avril. forbes2015@outlook.com.

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kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Parish Church

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Help Needed!

Lochwinnoch

On Easter Sunday, 1st April, there is a short service at the Weaver’s Cottage at 8.30am, followed by bacon/sausage rolls in the church hall. The main service is at 11am as usual and both will be conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith.

The services continue at 11am on the following Sundays. The Sunday School and crèche meet in the halls from 10.45am. All services are followed by refreshments in the hall.

On Wednesday from 10.30am, the Midweek Fellowship takes place in the small hall. All welcome to any or all of these services.

For further information about the Parish Church and all organisations, please see the website: www.kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Gryffe SCD Club - Kilbarchan CHARITY SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE in aid of Mary’s Meals

Needs your help Jane Owens, the organiser of this annual event told The Advertizer, “Due to unforeseen circumstances I will be unable to be here for this year’s event.

I am looking for a person or group to oversee the final week of preparations and also the event itself on Saturday 9th June.”

“I will be able to complete all the organisation up to the end of May and the normal team of helpers will be there on the day. If someone, or any groups are interested, can they contact me ASAP please. I need a quick response because otherwise this year’s event will be cancelled. Many thanks.”

Jane can be contacted by email, janeowens@hotmail.co.uk or call 07790 506062, or on Facebook via the link: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/216880298332258/permalink/1765389560147983/

~ Supper and Raffle ~ Wednesday 4th April, 7.30pm.

Kilbarchan Guide Centre.

Music by the Marian Anderson Duo. Tickets £7 If you love Scottish Country Dancing and music, come along and join in.

Would you know what to do in an Emergency?

We value your support and can guarantee a super evening of lively dancing with a well known programme of dances.

New Dates for 2018!!

Information, tickets and programme from:- Les Lambert 01505 704398

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Knitting Bee

Meets fortnightly on a Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at Knit Knax, 37 High Street Johnstone, also weekly Thursday from 2pm to 4pm.

Contact: Pamela 07743 156738 or email bknitting@hotmail.co.uk.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

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

churches in Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie ...........................

KILBARCHAN PARISH CHURCH IN APRIL: On Easter Sunday, 1st April, there is a short service at the Weaver’s Cottage at 8.30am, followed by bacon/ sausage rolls in the church hall. The main service is at 11am as usual and both will be conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith. The services continue at 11am on the following Sundays. The Sunday School and crèche meet in the halls from 10.45am. All services are followed by refreshments in the hall.

On Wednesday from 10.30am, the Midweek Fellowship takes place in the small hall. All welcome to any or all of these services. For further information about the Parish Church and all organisations, please see the website: www. kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk 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.

LOCHWINNOCH PARISH CHURCH: Mary Jane Bird. Sunday 11am: Morning Worship and Sunday School. All welcome.

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.

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.

♥ Every week in Scotland, 70 people suffer cardiac arrest. ♥ More than 3,500 people per year in Scotland are treated by the Ambulance Service following a cardiac arrest. ♥ Only one in 20 people will survive. ♥ Without resuscitation, cardiac arrest is always fatal ♥ But, performing CPR could double that person’s chance of survival Heartstart courses are free of charge and it only takes two hours to learn the skills which may someday save a life: ♥ Recovery position ♥ CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) ♥ Heart Attack ♥ Choking ♥ Serious bleeding To learn the simple skills that save lives, contact Morag Thow on 07868 752814 to book onto one of our courses: Tue 17th April

7pm - 9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

Wed 23rd May

7pm - 9pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch

Tue 19th June

7pm - 9pm

The Boarding House Howwood

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

The Old Library Centre We have a concert by Auld Hats New Heids on Saturday 7th April. They played a very entertaining gig last year to a sell out audience. Tickets are £12 each, phone, email or come into the centre to book your tickets.

We have the ever popular psychic Sally Buxton booked for Thursday 26th April at 8pm. Tickets are now sold out for this, however we have a waiting list in case anyone cannot come.

Finally, we have another concert by Jimmy Livingston booked for Friday 11th May, tickets £12 each. Jimmy last played here in October 2014 and was very warmly received.

Please contact the Old Library Centre, details below, for more information or to book any of these events.

There is an Intermediate Yoga class on at the Old Library Centre on Monday nights from 7.30pm – 9pm. It is for those with a regular practice who wish to challenge themselves. Arm balances, headstands, handstands, lots of fun poses – why not give it a try. Contact Marian on 07585 006537.

The Old Library Centre is a registered Scottish Charity and is ran by volunteers. For more details please phone 01505 706070, email kipcokil@ hotmail.com or visit our website www.kipcokil.com

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Kilbarchan Fairtrade group The Curry Night scheduled for Friday 2nd March was postponed as a result of the snow. It took place on 9th March In Bobbins. Supporters enjoyed curry and wine and had an enjoyable evening. The Fairtrade Group thanks Kilbarchan Co-op, which donated the wine. The Co-op stocks stocks a variety of Fairtrade wine and other products. A raffle raised sixty two ponds for the group’s funds. The group recently gave one hundred and fifty pounds to Kilbarchan Primary School’s Fairtrade group, to enable it to buy stock.

To round off Fairtrade Fortnight a stall was held in Kilbarchan Parish Church on behalf of Rainbow Turtle, Paisley, which promotes fair trade commodities from all over the world. Two hundred pounds worth of food products were sold.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Saturday 16th June, 1pm - 4pm, Howwood Primary School The “How Good is Howwood” team are busy planning the annual village fete.

It’s shaping up to be another brilliant day, so put the date in your diary and come along with all the family. Along with the usual craft stalls there will be a bouncy castle, hot dogs, tea room, children’s activities, licensed bar, “beat the goalie”, baking competition and a musicals themed fancy dress competition for all ages.

We have some fantastic prizes for the Grand Draw, tickets for which are on sale now from any of the team.

Curry Night Courtesy of Stark Images kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan

The group has two meetings in April, the first about liners which were Clydebuilt and the second a speaker talking about the art of Life Writing. We also have an invitation to join Bridge of Weir for a talk about the History of IVF and Scotland’s contribution, in the Pirie Centre.

The National Women’s Register is for women who are interested in anything and who talk about everything. The website gives more details and the Kilbarchan group would be happy to welcome new members: www.nwr.org.uk

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood WI

Tuesday 17th Patchwork By Chalmers

April: Anne

Hostesses: Christina McCrae & Elizabeth Lawson Vote of Thanks: Morag Wills Mini Show - Schedule enclosed with syllabus, AGM and Trophy Presentations.

New members will be made very welcome. For further information please contact Irene MacTaggart on 01505 704800.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Scottish Country Dance Class Tuesdays in the McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm.

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

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Stall Holders Required The Howwood Village Fete is a great way to raise funds for your group or promote your business. Stalls cost £20 For any Fete enquiries/ stall bookings, please contact Lorna: lostar78@aol. co.uk or Sarah: sarah.galloway@rocketmail.com

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

The Kilbarchan Singers Annual Summer Concert Sunday 13th May at 7.30pm in Holy Trinity & St Barnabas Church, Paisley

The Kilbarchan Singers Annual Summer Concert is taking place on Sunday 13th May at 7.30pm in Holy Trinity & St Barnabas Church, Paisley.

Tickets £8.50 (under 18s £5.00) from choir members or phone Joyce (07960 307569).

Programme includes Handel “Messiah” Part II, Bach “Komm, Jesu, Komm” & music

by Mendelssohn, Rutter, Chilcott and the King Singers.

kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

“The Vicar of Dibley”

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 26th - 28th April at 7.30pm , Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall Kilbarchan Parish Church Drama Group presents the 2-act comedy “The Vicar of Dibley” in the church hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 26th - 28th April at 7.30pm.

The play is formed from scenes from the original television series and all the well-known characters appear. Tickets, £9 and £5 (school-age) are now available from Bobbins, group members or by phoning 01505 704048.

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kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Let's hear from our Councillors Cllrs Andy Doig I have recently contacted the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, as the Convener of the all party A737 Partnership Group, on which Lochwinnoch CC, Howwood CC, and Kilbarchan CC’s are represented, seeking a meeting to discuss their view on the upgrade of the A737. The A737 is a key economic artery for West Renfrewshire and I am lobbying the Chamber to add their weight and influence to our campaign.

At the last Planning Board I moved against the planning application by Williamsburgh Housing Association to build houses on Milliken Road. There were 120 objectors to this application and Kilbarchan CC formally objected too.

I am not against social housing but it must be in the right place, and I am not convinced that the access and traffic problems can be surmounted. However, the Board voted by 7 votes to 6 to approve the application.

Since I was first elected six years ago I have consistently lobbied the Council for more money for the villages, so following discussions with the administration I supported their budget on 2nd March to deliver a new Villages Investment Fund of £370k and also a new Community Empowerment Fund to help remediate disused buildings such as the Pavilions in Kilbarchan and Howwood, and the Annexe in Lochwinnoch.

Councillor Derek Bibby The decision by Renfrewshire Councils planning board to approve the proposed housing development in Milliken Road Kilbarchan will both anger, and confuse local residents who fought against it.

The planning board voted against the same development in March of last year, and it seems perverse that given the developers have failed to reassure residents on the issues previously raised, and despite the opposition of all ward councillors this has now gone through. I absolutely support the provision and expansion of social housing, but am equally committed to the protection of the green belt. There are many local Brownfield site options that could, and should, have been explored. This decision means that the protection of the green belt is now no longer sacrosanct, and those other communities which have similar green belt planning applications, will now be more uneasy at the prospect of similar decisions in the future.

At the most recent meeting of the Education Board, I moved that the Council should write to the Scottish Government, to seek a guarantee that they will fully fund the £33 million capital and revenue expenditure needed to pay for the expansion of early learning and child care to 1140 hours a year. Unfortunately the request was refused, and the fact that the Council has only received single year funding, now puts a major question mark over whether the additional hours will be provided, and if so at what cost to other council services and council tax payers.

Councillor Bill Binks Renfrewshire Council are proposing changing community level governance arrangements (currently these are known as Local Area Committees). At the moment there are five areas based on ward boundaries. This is to change to seven based on community council boundaries. So for Ward 9 - Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch and Howwood will be linked up with Houston, Bridge of Weir and Brookfield. Johnstone will join up with Linwood and Elderslie. The clear purpose of these changes is to achieve social connections, networks and partnerships across a local area. If you would like to participate in the current survey that is being carried out and voice your concerns or otherwise, then you can complete the survey online at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/communitylevelgovernance or communityplanning@renfrewshire.gov.uk It is of some concern to me that the interests and opinions submitted to Planning Boards by the four Community Councils within my ward, can be completely ignored or overturned by elected members voting against those submissions who do not live, in or represent, those wards. A case in point is the application to construct 18 residential units in Milliken Road at 8 Nether Johnstone. There were 120 letters of complaint including a submission from Kilbarchan Community Council against the proposal. The vote was carried by a majority of 7 to 6 to allow this development. The three ward 9 councillors myself, Councillor Doig and Councillor Rodden, that sit on this board voted to reject this application, subsequently the overwhelming wishes of the community of Kilbarchan have not been fulfilled. There needs to be a fundamental change in the way votes are allocated with more power given to the Community Councils that speak for the residents in those wards.

Ironically, at the same Board meeting a grant application by Kilbarchan Community Nursery for an after school dance class was turned down, only one of two to be rejected from an extensive list. This was an astonishing decision by the administration, given the The Team Up to Clean Up campaign is flourishing with communities and Scottish Government claims that child care and early learning is supposedly a flagship schools getting involved. If you are organising a clean up in your village policy. Families who use the nursery will rightly be sceptical. or community and could do with a hand then sign up to the Campaign.

There has been a longstanding problem with dog fouling in the grounds of Howwood There is a web page that gives you all the information where you can get Primary School. I have urged the council to increase warden attendance, and specifically clean up packs, posters and leaflets. I joined our team for a clean up target the school to deal with the problem. day in Howwood on the 17th March and though it was bitterly cold we all As I write the severe winter weather has returned. One of the implications has been enjoyed ourselves and The Boarding House kindly offered us hot soup the disruption to bin collections, with in particular grey bins overflowing and uncollected and a sandwich for which we thank them. in many areas for 4 weeks. This has highlighted the folly of the proposed reduction to A new approach to dog fouling is being trialled. Initially dog fouling will be 3 weekly grey bin collections from the Autumn, and while I am supportive of recycling, counted then highlighted using a temporary chalk spray to demonstrate common sense should prevail, and grey bin waste collections should remain at 2 weeks. the extent of the issue and encourage local dialogue. The spray and dog There has been consternation amongst bus passengers at the recent announcement of fouling will be removed within a maximum of 48 hours in partnership withdrawal of some services, and reduced frequency on others. Services affected are with Street Stuff and by Streetscene. Signage will be introduced along withdrawal of the 8 the 19 Services, and changes to the 38 from Kilbarchan to Johnstone with temporary art work and Wardens will ensure the area is monitored. and beyond. Together with other councillors, I recently met the management of McGill’s It would be remiss of me if I did not mention the wonderful achievement to urge them to reconsider these proposals. The general travelling public particularly of St. Anthony’s Primary School in Johnstone in being chosen as The UK in Kilbarchan, Howwood, and Lochwinnoch have had enough of de-regulation, and Literacy School of the Year. Many of the villages, as well as Johnstone, significantly for the first time, all 43 Renfrewshire Councillors combined at the council children go to this school. Jacqui McBurnie (Head Teacher) and all her meeting on 2nd March, to call on the Scottish Government to re regulate bus services. - I staff deserve a big thank you from the community and above all the hope that the government will listen. parents for doing such a dedicated and wonderful job.

Your Ward 9 Councillors ... for Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderlsie My surgeries are as follows:Steeple Hall, Kilbarchan - 1st Tues, 6pm Village Hall, Howwood - 2nd Tues, 6pm Town Hall, Johnstone - 3rd Wed, 6pm McKillop Institute, Lochwinnoch - 4th Wed, 6pm

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13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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april 2018

Cllr Emma Rodden

My biggest focus in recent times has been the proposal for the Renfrewshire Council budget 2018/19 financial year. The Budget was accepted and amongst the accepted proposals, to come into force from April, were: • A Village Investment Fund of £370,000 • Five years of funding for Tackling Poverty Schemes such as Families First • £1.5 million investment into Parks & Green Spaces, • A single-year record investment of £7.2 million into our roads • £2 million for digital infrastructure improvements • A five year commitment of £2.5 million for enhanced environmental cleaning • £4.5 million for a 5-year Employability Programme On an individual level, my ward constituents have kept me busy with housing repair issues, asset transfer requests, road repairs and of course with recent weather gritting was the hot topic.

I know for a lot of residents in my ward the most pressing issue is road condition so if you have specific examples of roads in need of attention (or of course any other matters which I can help you with) please email, call or come along to one of my surgeries and I will gladly take your concerns to the Officers.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

hs o mont Only tw o the to go t day!

BIG

We are pulling out all the stops to make this years Lilias Day a day to remember (and hopefully not for the giant hailstones!) On the day itself we have a great line up of entertainment including the amazing 3sixty bike display team. We also have few surprises up our sleeves for the parade and the park.

One of our new editions to the park will be a local craft market. Our ethos for Lilias Day has always been to support local charities and community organisations. This year we would like to extend that support to local crafters. Spaces are limited so contact us now if you would like a stall.

Lilias Day Big Prize Draw - Tickets on sale now Tickets are on sale now for the Lilias Day Big Prize Draw where once again we will be giving away £1,000 to one lucky winner. The prize draw takes place in the park on Lilias Day, Saturday 2nd June. Tickets can be purchased from the village shops displaying the ‘on sale here’ posters and from committee members. Buying tickets not only gives you a chance of winning £1,000 but also helps to raise money to support the community.

Getting involved There are still lots of ways to get involved in Lilias Day. Decorating your house or premises helps to transform the village, giving it a real festival atmosphere and keeps a centuries old tradition alive. Or you can take part in the historic parade and become a Baron, Knight or Statue of Liberty - we have a colourful history represented in the village parade. If you fancy something a bit more active you can get together a team for the tug of war.

If so email us with your team name and contact details. To the part in any of the above or to enquire about stall availability contact us at: info@liliasday.co.uk or message us on Facebook.

We are also looking for volunteers on the day to help steward the parade or help on the gates. Just two hours of your time can make a real difference to helping us run the day smoothly.

kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie

It seems like a very short time since we were preparing for the Local Elections and now we’re almost a year into our term, it is however difficult to remember a time when my every waking moment was not spent thinking about bin collections, dog fouling and potholes!

t: 01505 613340

Lilifest Announce Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs to Headline Lilifest is a programme of events and activities that forms part of the Lilias Day Celebrations. Full details to be announced soon but the big news is that Big Vern “n” the Shootahs will headline the festival on Thursday 31st May at Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre. See website or tickets-scotland.com for more details/tickets or buy them in person from Bobbins.

There is still time to add a listing to our Lilifest line-up. If you’re planning to hold an event in or around the Kilbarchan area a couple of weeks either side of Lilias Day let us know. Types of events included in the Lilifest line-up are music and entertainment, craft fairs, workshops, coffee mornings, quiz nights, film nights, fundraiser, etc. Details of the line-up will be announced soon.

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every

Monday

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am

£2/family fee incl tea & children’s snacks.

Kilmacolm Playgroup

Kilbarchan Community Nursery Our new topic is Spain and the children have been learning about passports, travel and Spanish food and customs. As most of the staff have now completed a Spanish language course, the children will be learning some words and songs in Spanish.

The children have been out and about on visits. The first to the ‘Monarch of the Glen’ workshop at Paisley Museum and art gallery where they learned all about the famous painting and made their own stag puppet. While there, they looked at paintings from the recent ‘Inspired’ exhibition which included a painting by one of our nursery children which was chosen for the exhibition. Another group of children visited a local travel agents to find out information about travelling abroad and brought back lots of brochures for our role play area travel agents in nursery.

At the end of March, the pre-school will have the chance to enjoy a concert ‘A day at the museum’ by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra at the concert hall in Glasgow.

Abbey Nursery

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

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group

Howwood Parish Church, 10am - 12noon

April @ Abbey is a month for celebration whereas unfortunately March will be remembered by everyone for the new phrase ‘snow day’.

This was a challenge for everyone and can we please thank all our parents for working with us during these three days and like you I think we were all pleased to get back to work on the Monday!

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club

Caitlin Smith has cause to celebrate this month as she achieved her SVQ Level 3 qualification – a big congratulations – and is now supporting the pre school children as they start to make their early transition visits to their new school.

Congratulations also to Sherie Gilchrist on achieving her SVQ level 4 management qualification, all her hard work certainly paid off.

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

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, 9.15am - 11.30am

every Tuesday

Kilbarchan Tots

Kilbarchan Scout Hall, 10am-12noon £2 contribution. Tea, coffee & biscuits.

Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup 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, 9.45am - 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 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup

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

Duchal Nursery School The children are really embracing our music project learning about the orchestra and trying their hand at all sorts of instruments!

We have started learning about the string section, all the children really enjoyed trying out the violin and listened to some classical music with strings. The percussion session certainly transformed the “Quiet Room” into a space full of creativity and sound!

We’re looking forward to our Easter Egg Hunt and keeping our fingers crossed for a visit from the Easter Bunny!

New Entries to Duchal: We are now offering places for the intake in August 2018. If your child will be of nursery age after the summer and you are looking at your pre school options, please do get in touch to have an informal look around. With our extended hours we are open daily 8.15am – 3.30pm, offering greater flexibility of care for parents. Duchal Nursery has been established in Kilmacolm for over 50 years and is a fantastic place to begin your child’s pre-school education. As an independent nursery our children move on to various schools in Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and Glasgow. Please visit our website for more information – www.duchal.com and find us on Facebook.

If you would like to come and visit the Nursery please get in 01505 874358 or email info@duchal.com

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am

This month the Little Ladybirds are continuing to celebrate two of their “oddball holidays with National Siblings Day on the 10th and Tell a Story Day on the 27th April. These fun days (like the popcorn day in February) are providing lots of excitement in the room for both staff and children.

The little ones are also celebrating their new garden area with its lovely all-weather surface and the children have been ‘listening to the crunch’ as they play outdoors.

Family Week starts on the 16th April and the whole nursery will be organising lots of fun, stimulating, challenging, engaging….. You get the picture….. Activities . Parents can always come and visit at any time, but this week is a chance for all carers to come along, meet other families and hopefully share some memories, ideas or skills with the children.

To finish off the month the staff are all off to the Escape Rooms in Glasgow to test our teamwork and problemsolving skills and we will let you know which team won the new Abbey Nursery Winners Trophy next month!

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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

Baby and Toddler Group

Elderslie Kirk, Main Rd, Elderslie, 9.30am - 11.30am

£2 includes children’s snack and tea/coffee.

Lots of different toys to play with. All welcome.

Community Bookbug Sessions

Livingstone Hall at St Columba’s Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm.

From 9.30 - 10am

1st & 3rd Friday

Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch, 1pm -2.30pm

£3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa.

every

Saturday

Baby Ballet

Freeland Church Hall, 9.15am - 10am

Contact Kirsty McKay on 07793 452060 or Kirsty McKay School of Dance Facebook page.

Pre-school Ballet

Freeland Church Hall, 10am - 10.45am Contact Kirsty McKay on 07793 452060 or Kirsty McKay School of Dance Facebook page.

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

22/03/2018 15:07:00

april 2018

t: 01505 613340

Local Lad urges others to try Modern Apprenticeships The only job Angus Robertson had before becoming a modern apprentice was a two week stint pitching tents at a trade show.

Now the 19-year-old is now in pole position to embark on a worthwhile career after intu Braehead gave him the chance to become a modern apprentice at the shopping and leisure destination.

Now in his second year, Angus – a former Gryffe High pupil and student at West College Scotland – has chosen to specialise in Health and Safety and having already gained a Level 2 qualification in Business and Administration, he hopes to receive an Occupational Health and Safety Level 3 qualification by the end of his modern apprenticeship. He is also guaranteed a full-time job with intu Braehead after his apprenticeship is completed.

Angus said: “I would encourage young people to apply for modern apprenticeships because it gives you a launch pad for the rest of your working life... Thanks to intu Braehead I’ll get a qualification, I won’t have any debt from having a student loan, I’m earning money and I’m getting on the job experience.”

One of the high points of Angus’s first year was creating and making a presentation to the intu’s board of directors about the company’s modern apprenticeship scheme.

He added: “I will look back on my time at intu Braehead as a lifechanging experience.”

Peter Beagley, regional centre director at intu Braehead: “It’s really satisfying to see someone like Angus being given the opportunity to forge a career for himself and develop and mature as a young person.”

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Kilmacolm Primary What a busy month it has been at Kilmacolm Primary! Mrs McKeegan and the boys and girls of Primary 2/1 celebrated Mother’s Day by hosting a Muffins for Mum afternoon. They baked a sensational selection of flavoured muffins and invited their mums into school for an afternoon of fun, finished off with a fabulous home baked muffin, they were delicious!

World Book Day was celebrated throughout the school with children dressing as a character from their favourite book. Parents came in to share the joy of reading with their children, classes joined together to read to one another and a massive book swap was organised to find new homes for our old books. Kilmacolm really does love reading.

Primary 6 recently participated in The Great Big Food Cycle Event where they were learning about Climate Change and how to minimise food waste. After completing a series of challenges, they were rewarded with a school wormery! Now we will be able to use our lunch waste to create compost for the school garden thanks to our magnificent wormery.

Generation Science landed in Primary 3 to teach us the science behind magnets. It was out of this world! At the Port Glasgow Bulb Show the nursery received second in class for their beautiful Spring bulb selection, whilst Primary 6 won first in class for their stunning Button Holes, thanks to Mrs Cook for helping us. Primary 7 had an amazing time at residential trip to Dalguise taking part in a range of hair raising activities including trapeze, zip wire, Jacob’s ladder and the Giant Swing. They were extremely proud of what they achieved, well done P7.

Kilmacolm Nursery Class

Strawberry Field Out of School Care

We have had a busy few weeks at Kilmacolm nursery class. Due to the snow we had to postpone world book day which we held on Friday 9th March. The children celebrated world book day by dressing as a character from their favourite book. We visited the school library to read some books and even shared stories with the children from the school.

Over the last month we have been extremely busy. We have been putting our wellbeing and physical training into action, with a variety of different outdoor games such as basketball, dodge ball and badminton to name a few.

We have started our nursery to school transition programme. The children have been joining in with primary 1 at playtime, we also met our buddies who are going to help look after us when we start school.

Our parents also met our buddies.

We have also been having lots of Lego activities being enjoyed by all.

The children put a variety of entries into the bulb show this year. This included the children making their own handicrafts and paintings. The children also planted bulbs. Can you believe we won overall second prize!

We can’t wait to receive our certificate and spend our prize money.

The girls have been busy painting their nails and making jewellery.

We will now be preparing for Easter with lots of different indoor and outdoor activities taking place.

At the moment will still have a few available for the Easter Holidays so if you require care please feel free to give us a call on 01505 615315 or alternatively Email: sam@sfnursery.com

Meet our buddy

Port Glasgow Bulb Show

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Lochwinnoch Primary School

“Maybe We Could Paint the Underpass?”

The pupils of Primary 7 at St. Fillan’s Primary have been focusing on their Health and Wellbeing through the PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies) Programme for Schools. During a recent lesson, pupils were asked to think about how they could help to improve their local environment. One idea proved immediately popular among pupils when it was mentioned by Mitchell, “Maybe we could paint the underpass?”

Lochwinnoch Primary has been busy working towards our eco-flag award and we have been looking in and around our school to see what improvements we can make. We noticed that there was a lot of litter lying around the car park, playground and paths which was making our school look rather untidy. The primary 5’s and 6’s did a wonderful job of picking it all up and our school is looking much more cheerful. Please make sure if you see any rubbish you pick it up and put it in a bin if it is safe to do so! It would go a long way to helping our environment.

We have also planted tomatoes, cucumber, potatoes and lettuce in our poly tunnel. We can’t wait for them to grow! Unfortunately, we have noticed that the poly tunnel has suffered some damage recently. We would kindly like to remind everyone that the poly tunnel should be used during school hours only as it would be a shame to lose such a valuable resource.

Pupils reported that the underpass, which many of them regularly use to safely cross Bridge of Weir Road had been vandalised and that some of the lights were no longer working. They stated that it was quite dull and that the grounds round about it were overgrown and needing cleaned up a bit.

Primary 7 spent a very cold (but exciting) day down at Castle Semple taking part in a bush craft workshop. We learned how to start a fire and then toasted marshmallows and made pancakes in the woods.

We also went on a woodland treasure hunt and enjoyed lunch down at the loch. It was a fantastic day even if we did require a good bit of defrosting by the time we got back to school!

The school has managed to secure permission from Renfrewshire Council Roads Department to go ahead with their project and now need to raise approximately £1500, which would allow them to do the art work, seal it and tidy up and tend to the undergrowth of the immediate area. Renfrewshire Council have given advice and Community Payback have agreed to pressure wash, seal, tidy up and undercoat it, which would allow painting to start.

Primary 3 and 3/2 were also very lucky to have a beautiful day down at Castle Semple. They spent the day learning about land use, map skills and going on a shore side walk. They had lunch down at the loch too and even got to feed some swans. We are very lucky that the rangers at Castle Semple so generously provide day trips and activities such as this and we would like to say a huge thank you for everything that they do for our school.

Pupils have been in touch with Houston Primary and Gryffe High to invite them to join with them to make this a true community partnership, through which all local residents can benefit.

The school netball team also got the wonderful opportunity to go and watch the UWS Sirens play their first match at the Emirates stadium in Glasgow. It was an exciting meet and greet with the players and the children got to cheer them on to a 5 point victory over the opposition!

All donations, equipment (or catering for the teams) would be gratefully received! Keep an eye on St Fillans school website and social media for further information and appeals for local people-power!

Kilmacolm Playgroup

World Book Day (sadly) came and went while we were on our unexpected snow days from school but a week later we rescheduled our ‘Story Swap’ day and the children got the chance to dress up in their costumes. Both the upper school and lower school took part in ‘Story Swap’ day, rotating around the classes to hear different stories from around the world.

This month we’ve enjoyed our usual mix of messy play, jigsaws, games, dressing up, cool crafts and lots of jumping around with Sticky Kids!

Especially popular was our Gruffalo-themed week where our lovely little bunch were taken on a wee trip to our local Library and enjoyed lots of Gruffalo-styled stories, crafts and games. Playgroup runs on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings. We take children from 2 years and 4 months. SPACES AVAILABLE! For more information contact Iona on playgroupmembership@googlemail.com

The nursery has been buzzing since their new makeover and they have introduced a “Thinking Wall”. This displays the thoughts and curiosities of the children and directs the learning. Their current topic is ‘fixing things’ and if anyone has a hobby or a job that involves fixing things then they would really like to hear from you! They have also introduced a variety of loose parts in to play including natural materials to encourage creativity during play.

Our toddler group runs on Wendesday from 10am-11.30am and gives 0-3 year olds the chance to play while grown ups chat over a cuppa. Drop in or contact Fiona on kilmacolmtoddlers@ outlook.com. For more info: https:// kilmacolmplaygroupandtoddlers. jimdo.com/ or find us on facebook.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club The club resumes on Monday 16th April from 9.15am - 11.30am in the hall and will continue till Monday 25th June, with two May holidays. All tots from birth-3 years, along with and adult are welcome.

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april 2018

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm

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Pipe Band Wins at Scottish Schools’ Pipe Band Championships The School’s Pipe Band won the Junior B category at the Scottish Schools’ Pipe Band Championships, the world’s largest schools piping event. A record-breaking 700 young pipers and drummers entered the competition held in West Lothian. Competing in a fiercely contested category, involving 17 other schools, St Columba’s Pipe Band gave such a strong performance that saw them receive the Winners Shield and a cheque for £500. The Band has since been asked to perform on stage with Skerryvore at The Beacon Arts Centre on Thursday 29th of March, this promises to be a wonderful evening.

Public Speakers Win Regional Finals Three Senior V pupils gave a show stopping performance and won the Regional Finals of the Rotary Youth Speaks Competition in Dundee. This makes our talented speakers officially the best team in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the North of England. We wish Mark Connelly, Finlay Cooper and Eilidh McCrudden the best of luck when they compete in the National Finals at Exmouth Community College on the 12th of May. Nurturing Nature There has been a lot of excitement at Junior School recently with the children proving they really do have a wonderful nurturing nature. Early Years had a special delivery in the form of baby chicks. The children thoroughly enjoyed watching as they hatched and developed right before their eyes, as did many parents as they watched from the comfort of their own homes, all thanks to the wonders of a live webcam feed. Junior 4 celebrated the end of their Clyde in the Classroom topic by releasing around 60 trout that they had been nurturing since January into the River Gryffe. In amongst all this excitement Junior School are exceptionally busy rehearsing for their wonderful production of Aladdin Jr. Early Years Nursery Assessments - Thur 19th & Fri 20th April Early Years feels like a home from home where our 3 and 4 years olds can learn through play. As well as reading, writing and numeracy skills children are taught PE, French, music and drama by specialist staff. With an all-season play space and carefully maintained Wild Woods children benefit from hands-on learning in a beautiful village setting. We offer flexible wraparound care from 7.30am-6pm.

Our informal assessments take place on Thursday 19th and Friday 20th April - please contact Junior School on 01505 872768 for details.

Open Evening - Wed 25th April Junior School, 6pm-8pm ~ Senior School, 6pm-9pm Ranked fourth in the Sunday Times league table of top Scottish Independent Secondary Schools in 2017, St Columba’s School is renowned for its first class education and academic excellence.

With representation on the Scottish Hockey team, the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and the Scottish Debating Team, St Columba’s leads the way both in the classroom and on the field. It is with dedicated teaching, mentoring and pastoral care that every pupil can aspire to greatness. Our size is also our strength. With around 700 pupils aged 3-18, each child is known by name and recognised as an individual.

Our Open Evening provides the perfect opportunity for families to experience the true atmosphere of St Columba’s and to see what makes our School so special. Please make an appointment to visit Open Evening on Wednesday 25th April. www.st-columbas.org

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Langbank Playgroup

Gryffe High School

Langbank Playgroup is the place to be!

The children are offered the opportunity to develop their social skills, independence, creativity, numeracy and literacy skills.

Recently, the children have been learning about The Gruffalo story and they were offered the opportunity to act out the parts using puppets. This lead on to some inquisitive questions and some fantastic imaginative play. “Where does the mouse live?”, “What does a snake feel like?” and “Can we make a Gruffalo cave?”.

House Week at Gryffe This week was full of fun, exciting and competitive activities for all to take part in. Events included Face Painting, Quizzing and for the 1st time ‘IM A GRYFFER, GET ME OUT OF HERE!’ where some interestingly creepy trials were set for staff and pupils!! A massive thank you to our House Captains, and also to all of our pupils who supported House Week. The whole school dressed in their house colours (for a small donation) on Friday and Mr. Blue got tasked with fitting everyone in one photo! He succeeded! All funds raised will go towards future House activities and events.

PTs Pupil Support BURNS, FLEMING, MACKINTOSH and WALLACE

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 AVAILABLE 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.

Houston Primary The nursery pupils have been celebrating the Chinese New Year. They had fun dragon dancing, tasting Chinese foods and making lanterns. Kung hei fat choi! Primary 1 have also been learning about Chinese traditions and have had fun in their very own Chinese restaurant. Primary 2 and 3 have been learning about the Egyptians and are going to visit Kelvingrove Museum to see some real artefacts. Primary 4 have been studying Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as their class novel and are now rehearsing for their show. The pupils auditioned, with Corrie Bain chosen to play Charlie and Christopher Haddow as Willy Wonka.

Technology Challenge - On 15th February Primary 7 pupils showed off their technological skills to their parents and judges. Each group had to design and create a working model and produce an information booklet.

The standard was extremely high and the judges had a very difficult job choosing the winning group. In the end they agreed on ‘Footy Food Bot’ created by Abigail Nelson, Mila Crichton, Murray Tate and Adam Foy. All pupils were awarded with a medal for taking part in the challenge. Well done to everyone.

Kirk Carnival King and Queen - It has been tradition that the Kirk Carnival was opened by the Carnival Queen and her attendants. However the pupils at Houston Primary thought that this was unfair and requested that there should be a Carnival King. So their wish was granted and this year the Kirk Carnival will be opened by Carnival Queen, Abigail Nelson and Carnival King, Angus Feely. They will be supported in this role by their attendants, Amy Spearing and Murray Gray.

Coding Club - Houston Primary launched its very first Coding Club this term. Mrs Farquhar sought the expertise of Kyle Cuthbert of Primary 6 to lead the learning as he really is a computer whizz kid. The pupils who attended had a go at creating their very own computer games.

Euro Quiz Winners! - Ishan Gosh-Ray, Owen Hutchieson, Alannah Pollock and Eva Graham of Primary 6 have been studying very hard to take part in the annual Euro Quiz. The competition was held in February against a number of Renfrewshire schools and they won!

Rotary Club Quiz Murray Gray, Murray Clark, Rory Gibb, Aidan Smith, Angus Feely and Stephanie Morton were selected to represent Houston Primary School at the annual quiz.

They studied very hard in preparation for this event, and came in 3rd place. Well done!

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Fairtrade Fortnight …..was packed full of events including a Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream stall. Ben and Jerry’s are a Ben and Jerry’s are a committed Fairtrade company who source all of their ingredients ethically. Citizenship pupils also organised a Rich Person, Poor Person breakfast where you basically get given an unknown ticket for breakfast. The fortnight ended with the popular Fairtrade Bakeoff.

Well done to all of our Great Gryffe Fairtrade Bake Off Winners. As always competition was fierce and as you can see A LOT of time, effort and thought was put in to the amazing cakes. Congratulations to our star bakers Ella, Eimear, Orla, Rebecca and Keira.

Houston Toddlers We have been having lots of fun at toddlers recently and have lots of new faces joining us each week.

We had a baby sensory session and everyone had a great time We welcome all children age between 0-4 years old, together with their parents, grandparents or carers to join in with the games, crafts and play on offer every Thursday. The children can enjoy playing, making friends and of course snack time while the adults can catch up with a cuppa.

We meet between 9.30am - 11.30am so come along when you are ready to the West Hall, Main street Houston PA67EL (next to the Carrick Centre). We look forward to meeting you all!

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Science Week at Howwood

Science week at Howwood began with a visit from one of our parents, Martin Carden who is based at Prestwick Airport. He came to tell us about the role of an air traffic controller. The children were intrigued with the information he showed them about flight routes, the skills needed to be an air traffic controller and science behind flight. At one point the P6 class were able to track a plane that passed over the school at 1 o’clock to Amsterdam and the enthusiasm around this activity was great.

Primary 1 and Primary 5 embarked on Space discovery and worked together to create rockets. They took a trip to Glasgow Science Centre to learn a bit more and had great fun in the workshops.

Many classes throughout the school looked at the water cycle to coincide with World Water Day and the Rights of the Child.

P7 created working volcanoes and disaster movies to go along with them - whilst also learning about Genetics!

Primary 6 have embarked on a bridge building project with Thermo Fisher Scientific. They have been given the challenge of creating their own bridge building company, looking at costs and design and then building the bridge with K’nex. Thermofisher will return next week to choose a winning team!

All in all it was a great week, the children at Howwood Primary School LOVE Science!

Kids charged up for recycling

School Drivers Have Lots to Learn

Two Johnstone primary schools have collected almost 2,500 batteries as part of a nationwide recycling challenge.

Unsafe parking and vehicle idling at Renfrewshire schools are under scrutiny as complaints about irresponsible drivers continue to rise.

Pupils from St David’s and Cochrane Castle Primary signed up for the ‘Big Battery Hunt’ in January, joining more than 1,800 schools across the UK in raising awareness of recycling.

School Eco Coordinator and P1 teacher Stephanie Mackenzie was delighted to see the pupils embrace the challenge so enthusiastically.

“It’s been great to see the children so interested in this initiative and developing their understanding of how recycling can help the environment.”

In an effort to tackle and eradicate the problem, Renfrewshire’s Community Safety Partnership is continuing to target 10 schools each year as part of the school parking and idling campaign.

Over a three-day period, Renfrewshire Wardens attend the schools to encourage drivers to think about their behaviour and the impact it has on children.

Here’s what Cameron (5) had to say:

Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Convener Councillor Marie McGurk said: “While I appreciate how difficult it is to park at busy times, the safety of our children must be the number one priority.

“I got my batteries from old toys in the house. It is good that we are recycling at our school and telling other people about it”

“To that end, the Council will work with partners such as Police Scotland to look at sustainable solutions to these problems.

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “Teaching our young people about helping the environment is a positive move toward changing the recycling behaviour of our generations to come.”

“I urge people to look at changing their behaviour, whether it is switching off engines or parking further from schools and walking the final five minutes where possible.

Entries to the ‘Big Battery Hunt’ competition close on 26 April when all batteries will be collected and recycled.

“It’s all about taking responsibility for your actions, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to be involved in looking for positive solutions to this serious issue.”

Safety first is the goal for Renfrewshire pupils Almost 2,000 primary six pupils visited St Mirren Football Club last month to take part in a series of safety workshops designed to keep Renfrewshire children safe. Workshops ranged from dog fouling and anti-social behaviour to fire safety, drugs and alcohol awareness and emergency situations.

The workshops took place in and around the Paisley 2021 Stadium, including the dressing rooms and hospitality suite, with pupils taking their seat in the stand before being split into their groups for the day.

Kids were also tasked to create their own posters detailing what being safe means to them and five winners were selected by Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron. The winners, and their families, were invited to a special VIP day at the Paisley 2021 Stadium and were joined by pupils from Bargarren, St John Bosco, Glencoats and Barsail Primary.

The five winners were: Momina Ali – Newmains Primary, Renfrew, Gracie Boyd – Ralston Primary, Paisley, Evie Crawford – Lochfield Primary, Paisley, Jemma Johnston – St Anthony’s Primary, Johnstone, Summer Coyle – Rashielea Primary, Erskine.

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “Safe Kids is a fantastic project. The workshops are delivered in a fun and engaging manner which means the young people involved can enjoy the day while still taking in the serious messaging behind the activities.”

Prizes for the winners, including discounted passes, bags and tickets, were kindly donated by Flip Out, Joma Sport and St Mirren.

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Strathgryffe Squash Trio off to Sweden to Represent Scotland Three squash players from Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash and Fitness Club have been selected to represent Scotland this summer.

Teenagers Beth Moglia, John Meehan and Ruadhri McDougall will compete at under-17 level for Scotland at the European Team Championships in Sweden.

The five-strong Scotland squad will travel to Malmo, Sweden’s third largest city, in May to compete against Europe’s finest junior squash players.

Their selection follows recent success for the trio at the Scottish Junior National Championships in Aberdeen where Beth and John claimed silver medals in the GU17 and BU17 events respectively with Ruadhri claiming bronze in the BU17 event.

Coach Martin Woods said: “All three players have worked very hard over the past few years and their selection is a great reward for the time and effort they have put in... Strathgryffe has been a great club for them to join. It offers a very supportive approach to the development of junior squash players and has definitely contributed to the players’ success.”

For more information on Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash & Fitness Club visit www.strathgryffe.net or tel:01505 615100

Ranfurly Castle Ladies The snowy weather has taken it’s toll with the cancellation of the first competition of the new season. The 5 Clubs would have been even more of a challenge than normal!

Wednesday 14th March was the annual Bridge evening at the Club and was the usual big success. The evening was divided into two halves with a delicious supper marking ‘half time’. The supper is provided and served by the Ladies Committee and was of a very high standard, as it always is.

The evenings raffle was raising funds for Alzheimer’s Scotland and a huge thank you to all those who supported this and helped to raise the sum of £233.

The winners on the night were: 1st: Irene Collinson, 2nd: Alison Robertson 3rd: Sheila Moore No slam prize was awarded due to no one bidding and achieving it.

Castle Semple Sailing Club winners After the dreich weather on the Saturday it was a relief to see some sunshine and a little bit more wind than the forecast would have us believe. Five boats took part in the final 2 races of a disappointing series weather wise. The first week there was very little wind, the second week was a lovely sunny windy day, the third week was snowy and the loch was half frozen and the buoys had been dragged all over the loch, and so the final week was a relief to have a gentle breeze but it could have been better.

The winners were: 1st Brian Young and Heather Evans (RS Vision), 2nd Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne (GP14 and laser), 3rd Angus Winchester (and Tony - RS800) (RS800/Vortex/EPS)

Old Ranfurly GC: Charity Presentation Last year’s Lady Captain Hazel Kirkland chose Motor Neurone Disease as her charity. The ladies section at the club organised a variety of activities to raise funds during the 2017 golf season and were delighted with the support and generosity of the members. A big thank you also to the Rosebowl Committee who contributed the funds from the Mixed Open Competition to the fund.

Hazel was delighted to be joined by Christine Sweeney, a much loved member at the club, who suffers from MND and her family to present the £4,012 cheque to Iain McWhirter - Head of Volunteering and Fundraising at MND Scotland.

Ladies’ Open Golf The Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club will be holding their Ladies’ Open on Thursday 5th July when The Ramphorlie Quaich and Stableford Greensomes will be played. Maximum Individual Handicap 34. Entry Fees are £16 per couple and Final Entry Date is Friday 29th June.

Tee times available from 10am to 3pm. Snacks and meals will be available all day. No competitor may win more than one major prize. Book online via BRS Online Tee Booking System where you can choose your time and pay online at https://www.brsgolf.com/ oldranfurly/opens_home.php or alternatively send your entry form along with a cheque to: The General Manager, The Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club, Ranfurly Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3DE Tel: - (01505) 613214

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13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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Gryffe Valley Rotary 10K Run 29th April 2018

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The search is on for sponsors for the 10K run! Sponsorship is the main method for generating proceeds for the chosen charity – which this year will be the Glasgow-based charity Funding Neuro (www. fundingneuro.com) which is researching novel possibilities for treating neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s disease, Motor Neurone Disease, MS and brain tumours (DIPG and Glioblastoma).

Members are seeking sponsorship for the event, for individual runners and for teams of runners from clubs, organisations, schools, and streets. There will be a prize for the team which generates most sponsorship for Funding Neuro. More details from www.gryffevalley. rotary1230.org.

Some teams are being organised because people have relatives who have been afflicted with one of the conditions Funding Neuro is targeting.

The list of possible sponsored teams is growing and includes The Fox and Hounds, the Houston Inn, The River Inn, St Columba’s School (16+), Manse Crescent, the Butlin Crew, Rotary members and Birkmyre Gym. All will be pleased to take on additional runners.

There is no limit to team size. Bridge of Weir Leather have also been approached and the Linwood Park Run.

Brookfield - New Fitness Class Starting in the Village Hall on Tuesday 3rd April from 7.45pm – 8.15pm, PiYo is a new fitness class which combines the muscle sculpting, core firming benefits of Pilates with the strength and flexibility advantages of Yoga. And the speed is cranked up to deliver a true fat burning, low impact workout that leaves your body looking long, lean and incredibly defined. No matter your age, no matter your body type, PiYo will help give you dramatically visible, incredibly beautiful results. £2 per session. Bring a yoga mat. For further information, please contact Gemma McNaughton on 07909 993423.

Bubble Rush at Bellahouston The event is taking place at Bellahouston Park on Sunday 6th May and is the biggest Bubble Rush event in the UK. It is not a race and is aimed all ages. Hospice supporters can run walk or toddle around the route. The emphasis is to join thousands of people and have a day out doing something different to support your local hospice.

Bubble Rush is an event full of laughter. Thousands of people are showered in multi-coloured bubbles and foam as they make their way along the 5k route. All the ‘bubblers’ have a great day out and, at the same time, raise valuable funds for hospice care. Last year over £11.5k was raised for Ardgowan Hospice to support those patients living with a life limiting illness and their families in the community of Inverclyde.

Alex Mula, Events and Fundraising Coordinator at Ardgowan Hospice, said, “Bubble Rush was a sell out last year as families jumped at the idea to try something new. The event makes everyone smile and have a good time together. It is the perfect way to inspire all ages to get fitter and take on challenges in 2018. We encourage you to register now to get your chance to be ‘bubbled’ this year. “

Sports groups to benefit from fund to help change the lives of young people Scotland’s sporting community is being given the chance to share in a £550,000 National Lottery good cause fund, aimed at helping change the lives of young people across the country.

The Year of Young People National Lottery Fund, a joint scheme from Scotland’s National Lottery distributors including sportscotland, is offering funding between £3,000 and £10,000 to sports, heritage and community projects that have a distinct focus on improving the lives of young people between eight and 26 years of age.

Open to sport The £550,000 pot is open to groups across the sporting sector including clubs, Community Sport Hubs, Active Schools networks, Scottish Governing Bodies, young people’s sports leadership groups and local authority sports development or leisure trust teams.

The fund will be shared between projects that demonstrate their commitment in any of the following areas: ● Encourage positive mental health for young people; ● Inspire young people to lead active lives; ● Celebrate and share young people’s achievements; ● Involve young people in the development, design and running programmes.

Bright ideas This new funding is aimed at voluntary or community organisations as well as youth groups, youth associations and other non-profit organisations.

Schools are also eligible to apply. There are two application deadlines 30 April 2018 and 18 June 2018 – and groups will get an answer on their application within eight weeks.

Find out more Open now, the fund will celebrate the achievements of Scotland’s young people during the 2018 – the Year of Young People, with Scotland’s sporting networks urged to apply for a share of the cash via national-lottery-yoyp.org.uk Groups can also contact YOYPFund@hlf.org.uk or 0131 225 9450 for more details or support with their application.

Adult tickets (16+) cost just £20 and juniors (4-15) can enter for £10, anyone under 4 can enter for free and a family ticket (2 adults and 2 juniors) can enter for £50.

To sign up to Bubble Rush to support Ardgowan Hospice, visit http:// www.princeandprincessofwaleshospice.org.uk/event-article/familyevents/bubble-rush or for more information please contact Alex on 01475 558888 or email fundraising@ardhosp.co.uk

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Gryffe Valley 10K Run Sunday 29th April 2018 at 1.00pm

Route on country lanes between Houston, Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm, star�ng from Houston Public Park, for all abili�es from serious runners to novices/joggers Proceeds for a Glasgow - based charity which supports research into new treatments for many of the most serious neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, MS, MND and brain tumours Medal, Official Time, and Goodie bag for all runners.

Kilmacolm Bowling Club Kilmacolm Bowling Club will open on Saturday 7th April at 2pm, to which all members of kindred clubs are welcome to attend. Further information on 01505 874239.

Castle Semple Sailing Club Sailability Regatta The Club will host a Sailability Scotland Regatta over the weekend of 14th/15th April, with thanks to assistance from Clyde Murishiel for their help in offering suitable changing facilities.

Push the Boat Out 2018 On Sunday 6th May readers are invited to come and try dinghy sailing at Castle Semple Loch - contact dawn@castlesemplesc.co.uk

Trophies for best males (1,2,3), best females (1,2,3), best under 18s (1,2,3), best over 60, highest sponsored individual and highest sponsored team (eg school, pub, club, company or family) for Funding Neuro.

Home baking for runners and spectators!

Register, meet and change at West Church Halls, Houston PA6 7EL from 11.00am.

NOW is the time to make your plans: Start/ step up training, organise your team, seek sponsorship!

Entry fees: £12.50 if paid in advance, £15 on the day. £5 for runners 16-17 years

Follow us on Facebook - Gryffe Valley Rotary 10K Run Download Registration Form / Sponsorship Form from our website www.gryffevalley.rotary1230.org

EVERY

MONDAY

Adult Jazz Class

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

Zumba Light

St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm, 10am.

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information.

Adult Beginners Ballet Class Bridge of Weir, 11.30am

Sporting Blog

by Lesley Handley

Lose it and Keep it Off

I often get asked what the best diet is for weight loss. What someone should eat to lose body fat. There are so many different diets out there that are talked about and advertised…Atkins diet, vegetarian diet, vegan diet, the 5:2 diet, intermittent fasting, no sugar diet, raw food diet, paleo diet etc etc. But they all have something in common when you look at them all closely... They ALL reduce your calorie intake as you eat less!!

If you cut out a food group, or cut out carbs, or only eat between 12-8, you will inevitably lose weight as you are omitting something from your diet that you usually consume.

The amount of conflicting information out there with regards to weight loss and what you should and shouldn’t eat is massive. Even I get bewildered! With the number of ‘fad’ diets around, wading through all the advice trying to find a diet that suits YOU isn’t easy.

The question is, can you see yourself eating this way in 6 months/1 yr? Yes... then great - go for it, try it! No... then don’t waste your time/ money.

A lot of these ‘off the peg’ plans that you can get are exactly that - ‘off the peg’. Calories are mapped against a baseline number. Follow it exactly and you will get results. A lot of it is guesswork and will effectively put 90% of people into a calorie deficit. The results = weight loss!!

But can you do it long term? I will guess that no you can’t. So, it isn’t sustainable and won’t help you on your journey. As that is what weight loss is - a journey, a lifestyle change. A path you want to take that you stay on for many years to come, and not fluctuate around losing weight and re-gaining it.

If you eat less calories than normal, or incorporate exercise into daily life to create a caloric deficit you will lose weight. Cut out some of the rubbish, go for a daily walk, reduce portion size and you will see a difference.

Lesley For the full blog article head over to www.fitsmartfitness.co.uk!

For more information or advice on personal training contact me on 0773 627 4925 or e-mail lesley@fitsmartfitness.co.uk

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

Hatha Yoga

Large Hall, St Columba Church, 6.30 - 8pm Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272.

Kilbarchan Athletic Club

EVERY THURSDAY

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

On-X, Linwood, 7pm

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

On-X, Linwood, 7pm

5-a-side Football

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

Old Skool Step Class

Freelands Church (Opposite Amaretto), 6.30pm.

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information.

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton

Kilbarchan Athletic Club All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Kilmacolm Walkers

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm, 10am David 01505 874192 kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

The Shotokan Karate Club

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, 7.30pm

Woodlands PS, Linwood, 7pm & 8pm

Brookfield Village Hall, 7.15pm

Football Training

Callanetics

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

Hatha Yoga

Tweedie Halls, Linwood, 10 - 11am Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272.

Pilates classes

St Machars Church Hall, Bridge of Weir 9.30am & 10.40am. Kilmacolm community centre 6.30pm.

Tel Yvonne 07786 224367 or yvonne@ clydephysiotherapy.co.uk

Boxercise

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm, 6pm - 7pm £4 booking reqd Tel: 07983 557832 www.sifitness.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.

Move it or Lose it!

Cargill Hall, BoW, 10.30am West Burn Church, Greenock 2pm Fitness for the over 60s.

Gryffe Badminton

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

Football Training

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

Taekwon-Do Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm Call 07951 365166 for details.

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EVERY

www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

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

Taekwon-Do

Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm Call 07951 365166 for details

Beginners Adult Ballet

Bridge of Weir Primary School 7pm Call Kirsty McKay: Tel: 07941 686990

Adult Jazz/Keep Fit

Bridge of Weir Primary School 8pm Call Kirsty McKay: Tel: 07941 686990

Baby Ballet

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Morning Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details

Move it or Lose it!

Old Library, Kilbarchan 2pm

Falun Dafa practice

Port Glasgow Library 17:00 - 19:00 With five gentle exercises, Falun Dafa is an ancient self-cultivation practice based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance.

EVERY

FRIDAY

Callanetics

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am

Adult Tap Lessons

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Evening Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details

EVERY

SUNDAY

Birkmyre Rugby Club, Kilmacolm Youth Rugby Section, 11am - 1pm www.pitchero.com/clubs/birkmyre

info@advertizer.co.uk 01505 613340

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

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history

Did you Know?

Bridge of Weir Primary have a semaphore weather vane up to commemorate the children helping out in the great war. The scouts used semaphore flags to signal the arrival of zeppelins. The weather vane is signed by the P7 class of 2015. The semaphore is attached to the base of the vane and replaces the usual North, South, East and West. The little flags are made from painted steel so they look similar to the yellow and red flags they used to use.

Kilbarchan April 1918 After the German March 1918 offensive stalled the Germans struck in the north of France, hitting a previously relatively quiet sector of the front.

Private William Barr Nelson began his military career in the Queen’s Own West Kent Yeomanry before being posted to the 4th (Royal Fusiliers) Battalion of the London Regiment. At the time of his death he was serving with the 2nd Royal Fusiliers, 86th Brigade, 29th Division. William was born in 1898 at Meikle Burntshields, where his father was farm manager. In 1901 he was staying with his grandparents at East Mitchelton, Lochwinnoch. By 1911 the family was in Hook Farm, Charing, Kent, with his father’s second wife. William Nelson was a signaller in his battalion. He was killed, or died of wounds in enemy hands, on 11th April 1918.

He was 20, has no know grave and is listed on the Poperinghe Memorial, Panel 10.

Second Lieutenant James R Dow was initially in the Royal Field Artillery, then the Tyneside Scottish, and became a Lance Corporal in the 2nd Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment: after serving in France he was commissioned in the 8th Battalion South Lancashire Regiment: when it was disbanded he transferred to 2nd South Lancashires, 75th Brigade, 25th Division. He had an M.A. and a B.Sc. from St. Andrews University and was a science and maths teacher at Johnstone Higher Grade School in Ludovic Square (site of the medical centre). He was 36 when he was killed on 11th April 1918. He has no known grave and is named on Panels 6-7 on the Ploegsteert Memorial. (Photo: James R. Dow) Private John McCaig served with the 7th Gordon Highlanders in the 51st (Highland) Division. Before serving in the Gordons he had been in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. In 1911 the family was living in Rutherglen. John was then a blacksmith. His mother, John and all his brothers had been born in Kilbarchan.

He was married to Annie McCaig and they lived at 15 Ellerslie St, Johnstone. He was killed on 14th April 1918 at the age of 30.

He has no known grave and is commemorated on Panel 9 of the Ploegsteert Memorial.

Private Robert Gibson was in C Company 7th Seaforth Highlanders.

26th Brigade, 9th (Scottish) Division. He had trained on the Lewis Gun. The family lived at Riversdale, Tandlehill Road and he was the eldest son. His father managed the Cartbank Laundry. Robert was 19 when he was killed. He has no known grave and is his name is on Panels 132-135 and 162A at Tyne Cot, the largest British Great War cemetery.

Private Samuel Mairs Military Medal, was in the 7th Argylls, 154th Brigade, 51st (Highland) Division. Samuel was born at Clippens Row, Linwood in 1897. In 1901 the family resided at 9 Ewing Street. The family does not appear on the census in 1911.

Samuel married Jessie Gray Adam, a flax mill worker, in May 1916 and they lived in his house at 29 MacDowall Street. Samuel was 20 when he was killed on 22nd April 1918. He is buried at the Lillers Communal Cemetery Extension, Reference B.41

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Johnstone History Our next meeting is on the 10th April, in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30pm. Our speaker will be our Chairman Iain Murray and his topic is “ Voyage of Hope”. This should prove to be a very informative and enjoyable evening .

We hope for a good turnout of members and any visitors who wish to attend and everyone will be made very welcome. Our AGM last month was well attended. The business side of the meeting completed without delay and was followed by three short films, one of which took us on a tour of Johnstone. The evening finished with a raffle and our usual tea or coffee and biscuits .

The Museum continues to open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4 pm. Come along and dive into the past! There are many books and publications available for sale. These can also be purchased online at Johnstonehistory.org and can be paid for via PayPal.

Bridge of Weir in the Great War 100 years ago this month – April 1918 Lance Corporal Robert Niven, 18th Kings Liverpool Regiment Private John Brown, 2nd Argylls Having succeeded in driving back the cusp of the French and British Armies in the first two weeks of the German Spring Offensive, Ludendorff launched Phase 2 of his final attempt to win the war. On 9th April, Operation Georgette threw the might of eight divisions directed against British and Portuguese forces holding the Ypres Salient in Flanders. The German intention was to drive on to the Channel, cutting off the British forces in France from their supply lines.

Amongst those facing the German attack were two men from Bridge of Weir.

Robert Niven was the son of a plasterer from Paisley of the same name. 17-year-old Robert volunteered in August 1915, initially for the Highland Cyclist battalion, and 3 months later his 40-year-old father gave up his business and signed up. Robert Junior was later transferred to the 18th Battalion, King’s Liverpool Regiment, which fought in the Spring Offensive at St Quentin. Although memorial records have 9th April as the day he died, by which time the battalion was in the Ypres salient, the date of death on his Soldier’s Will is 21st March, the first day of the Spring Offensive, which fits better with his burial place near St Quentin, 100 miles from Ypres.

By 12th April, the situation on the Western Front had become so desperate that Haig issued his “Order of the Day” saying: “Three weeks ago today the enemy began his terrific attack against us on a fifty-mile front. His objects are to separate us from the French, to take the Channel Ports, and destroy the British Army…. With our backs to the wall, and believing in the justice of our cause, each one of us must fight to the end.”

And Robert Niven, whether with the 5th Army at St Quentin on 21st March, or facing Operation Georgette on 9th April, certainly did fight to the end. His father on the other hand was to survive the war.

John Gardner Brown was born in 1898 in Massachusetts, where his parents were working, the second of seven surviving children of at least ten born to Gardner Brown, a gardener originally from Ardrossan and Margaret McLoughlin, from Greenock, who had married in Boston, USA on 19th November 1891. After John was born, they returned to Scotland and settled in Bridge of Weir in 1906. John enlisted in the 2nd Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, under orders of 33rd Division. On 8th April it was in the Arras area, but was redeployed to Meteren near Ypres in time to be in the front line when the German Fourth Army attacked Kemmel Ridge between 17th and 19th April, still trying to break through to the Channel. The German advance was resisted heroically but John Brown was killed on the first day of the battle, and his body was never recovered. He had died on his 20th birthday.

Read more about Robert and John’s lives and untimely deaths at http://www. bridgeofweirmemorial.co.uk and in the book “Supreme Sacrifice: A Small Village and the Great War available from www.birlinn.co.uk or Abbey Books, 2 Well Street, Paisley, and other major bookshops or online.

Gordon Masterton

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 52-55 NEW SPORTS_283 APRIL18.indd 55

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56

the advertizer SITUATIONS VACANT

TRADES AND SERVICES

CHILDCARE

BUSINESS

HOLIDAY HOMES

TUITION HEALTHCARE/ BEAUTY

Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 01505 614925 Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders.

P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school.

T: 01505 873839.

MISCELLANEOUS

PROPERTY TO LET

deadline date for our may issue - Friday 56-59 NEW CLASSIFIED_283 APRIL18.indd 56

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

22/03/2018 15:31:27

E

april 2018

ITEMS FOR SALE BABY EQUIPMENT

Mamas & Papas pushchair, complete with cover, foot warmer & changing bag.

Good condition. £30. Red Kite baby walker. Hardly used. £10. Phillips Avent, microwave steam steriliser for 6 bottles. Hardly used. £4. Toilet trainer & toilet seat. New. £5. A rocking chair in a shape of an hippopotamus. Good condition. £15. Tel: 01505 872121.

Fogarty comfort fibre cot bed duvet. 4 tog, 150x120cm.

Machine washable. Great condition, smoke free home. £8. Tel: 01505 672175.

Two sets of cot bed duvet cover & pillowcases suitable for boys or girls (farm animals on one, giraffe & elephant on the other). Good condition, 100% cotton. £12 for both sets or £6 each. Tel: 01505 672175.

Chillafish Bunzi balance bike in blue and white (ages 1 to 3). Easily converts from three wheels to two without tools. Used but good condition. £14. Tel: 01505 672175.

Little Tikes 4-in-1 trike in brown and turquoise.

Ages 9 months to 3 years.

Great condition. £30.

Tel:01505 672175.

Phillips AVENT combined baby food steamer and blender with instructions and recipe booklet. Good condition.

Smoke free home. £22.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Silver Cross baby snug foot muff in grey. Excellent condition, smoke free home. £15. Tel: 01505 672175.

Fisher Price Discover & Grow Jumperoo. Like new. Bouncy in full working order. Smoke & pet free home. £20. Tel: 07765 550180.

Potty Chair Mothercare red & pink, VGC, £5. Tel: 07720 299588.

Toilet trainer seat, white, VGC, £2.50 each (have two). Tel: 07720 299588.

CLOTHES & SHOES

Nearly new men’s Fred Perry v-neck jumper.

Size XL. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Black Jazz shoes, good condition, junior size 11/12. £8. Tel: 07720 299588

t: 01505 613340

Jana ladies slingback leather sandals 4cm wedge light grey. £12.

Tel: 07856 610671.

Men’s 3/4 length sleeve WEST Beach t-shirt in khaki / white. Size XXL. As new. £10. Tel: 01505 672175.

Footglove ladies black sandals wedge real leather pull on. £13. Tel: 07856 610671.

Boys chino suit from Next - Classic neutral colour jacket and trousers - age 12. Worn once. £30 Tel: 07909 337784.

Pink Leotard, good condition, size 00. £5. Tel: 07720 299588.

Black Jazz skirts, never used, junior size Medium. £10. Tel: 07720 299588.

Tap shoes pink junior size 9/10 & 10/11. £8 each.

V G C . Te l : 0 7 7 2 0 299588.

Men’s brand new West Beach t-shirt. Size XL. £10. Tel: 01505 672175.

Brand new men’s Ralph Lauren navy v-neck jumper. Size XL. £40.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s brand new original Penguin casual trousers (label still attached) 38ins waist. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s Dehavilland black coat. Wool/cashmere mix, hardly worn, excellent condition. Chest 48ins. £45. Tel: 01505 672175.

Women’s Nine West heeled boots brown in size 5.

Good condition. £20.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Closet Clearing: Coats, Dresses, Trousers, Boots & Shoes. New & nearly new. Contact for details.

Tel: 01505 704830.

M e n ’s X L l i g h t w e i g h t waterproof golf jacket with half zip in black and charcoal. Excellent condition as unworn.

Smoke free home. £25.

Tel: 01505 672175.

The White Company pyjamas in lilac with lace trim and camisole style top. Size medium.

Unworn. Cost £65 new, will sell for £25. Tel: 01505 672175.

Suzanne Neville Beaujolais wedding dress in ivory silk.

Size 10. Professionally dry cleaned, good condition. £270. Tel: 01505 672175.

Ladies anorak/light trenchcoat sky blue size 18, like new reversible, checked lining inside belt pockets. £10. Tel 07856 610671.

Van Dal ladies white/ turquoise low wedge comfort shoes size 6 real leather, perfect condition. £20. Tel: 07856 610671.

Men’s M&S waxed casual coat in dark green. Size l a r g e . A s n e w. £ 3 0 .

Tel: 01505 672175.

M&S men’s charcoal suit.

Chest 48ins, waist 38ins, inside leg 31ins. Wool rich blend, excellent condition. £18. Tel: 01505 672175.

TECHNICAL & GAMES

Original Nintendo, 8 games. £1. Tel: 01505 613300 HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN

Junior bed for sale. Pine £20. Good condition. Tel: 07831 152086.

House Clearing: Various electrical items. Contact for details. Tel: 01505 704830.

Glass table - 1400mm x 800mm, 4 black matching chairs. Excellent condition - £ 8 0 . Te l : 0 7 5 8 7 170435.

Vi n t a g e s i l v e r p l a t e d spoons set of 12, for soup, Foreign make. New. £20.

Tel: 07856 610671.

Mexican queen size hammock (suitable for two adults) in green and red. Cotton body, nylon ends. Excellent condition. Never used, full instructions. £25.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Double Z Bed. Nearly new. £70. Tel: 01505 704830.

2 single mattresses, good condition. £1. Tel: 01505 613300.

8 Ikea white plastic folding chairs. £1. Tel: 01505 613300 3 flat pack book shelves. £1. Tel: 01505 613300 Hedge Trimmer - Garden Groom midi, with volume collection bag to save time clearing up. Lightweight safety hedge trimmer that cuts, shreds & collects cuttings. Good condition. £40. Tel: 01505 690426.

Single, hide-away, tubular wall bed with mattress.

Immaculate condition.

Length 1950 (77”) Width 1050 (41-1/2”). Hardly used. Smoke & animalfree home. £65. Tel: 01475 540313. Pick up only.

Large green compost bin. £10. Tel: 01505 872564.

TRADES & SERVICES - CARS FOR SALE - PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES (Black & White ads only) Lineage: up to 20 words £14.00* Boxed ad: £7.75* per column cm Photo: add £7.75* (colour) *all prices subject to VAT

57

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Retro style oak & veneer coffee table from the House by John Lewis range. Handy shelves and drawers for storage.

Approx H38cm x W110cm x D60cm. Excellent condition, smoke free home. £170. Tel: 01505 672175.

HSL Waltham model rise/ recline armchair. Dual motor. Wedgewood fabric.

Very good condition. Cost £1400 sell for £500 ono.

Tel: 07967 030420.

Gold plated spoons set of 12, NEW, Foreign. £55.

Tel: 07856 610671.

Set of 3 metal plant pots in galvanised steel, 36cm high, 11cm diameter at base. £15. Tel: 01505 672175.

Obelisk plant support in black, 120cm high. £6.

Tel: 01505 672175.

ELECTRICAL & GAS

Zanussi FL820 washing machine. 800rpm spin, good working order. £25 ono Tel: 0787 656 3768 Logitech QuickCam E3500 desktop computer camera with instructions.

Excellent condition - £5.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Micro HiFi system - Hitachi AX-M69. Amplifier Tuner/CD/MP3 player.

2 bookshelf speakers.

Complete with manual and remote control. Good condition. £45. Tel: 01505 690426 Sewing Machine - Brother VX1100 electric sewing machine. Very good condition. £45. Tel: 01505 690426.

TomTom XL OneSat. Nav. UK Ireland & Western Europe: £25. TomTom Start 20 Sat. Nav. UK & Ireland.£25. Both come with screen mounts and charger. Tel: 01505 702250 .

Vintage amber necklace cognac colour. £65. Tel: 07856 610671.

Smoby Rosy Doll, 63 cm long, good condition with clothes. £10. Tel: 07720 299588.

Amber bracelet. £25. Tel: 07856 610671.

Vintage natural cognac amber necklace. £65.

Tel: 07856 610671.

Silver plated elephant bangle. £5. Tel: 07856 610671.

Baltic natural amber bracelet, honey colour. £25. Tel: 07856 610671.

Carpet washer shampooer.

VAX. Never used, new.

Sucks up liquids. Boxed. £40. Tel: 07986 812483 Powabyke electric bike xls10 step through frame.

Fitted with large battery and original small one as a spare. 6 gears and “twist and go throttle”.

Can be powered without pedalling. Very good condition. £400. Tel: 01505 872650.

Peppa Big DVDs - 8 in total for £5. Tel: 07720 299588.

Brand new steel car wheel 6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre 185/60 R15. Stored as spare wheel only. £80.

Tel: 07736 067169.

WANTED ITEMS

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.

Westclox Big Ben alarm clock. Call 07756 981917 Cash paid for Music CDs (a few or a lot). Tel: 0141 882 5594 or 07765 115347.

FREE

CYCLE

Brand new G Force (Kids) wetsuit. Size - Junior XL 78 cm Chest. Adult (80 - 100 Kg) Secumar Lifejacket. Tel: 07487 665778.

Fancy learning to speak German? Self-learning books: “Deutsch als Fremdsprache” (German as a Foreign Language) Levels 1&2 course book and workbook; “Teach Yo u r s e l f G e r m a n ” ; “German Grammar Made Easy”; Collins German Dictionary and Grammar.

Available free - contact 07876 345576.

Maths/science books, suit student. Tel: 01505 613300 Artist palette box, used/ l o v e d . Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 613300

SPORTS

2 trout rods, trout smoker. £1. Tel: 01505 613300 Dinesse large Matt black ski/snowboard helmet.

Good condition. £20.

Tel: 01505 672175.

Old original style mountain bike, perfectly usable, 26” wheels £35. Also classic bmx bike ,20” wheels, all working £40. Tel / text 07810 523742.

Universal Ladies Cathy bicycle! 6 gears. 18” frame. 28” wheel. As New! £85. Tel: 07775 695095.

Toddler Bicycle helmets (44-48 cm) pink (have 2), suits appr. 1-5 yrs old, GC. £2.50 each. Tel: 07720 299588 Bicycle. Full size, white, new, never used. Can be folded. Cost £180, Sell £98. Tel: 07986 812483 OTHER ITEMS

Samsung WB210 Camera - Wo r l d ’s 1 s t 2 1 m m Super Wide angle compact zoom camera with 14.0 megapixels, 12 x optical zoom, 3.5” super bright smart touch screen, smart filter and HD movie. Excellent condition. £45. Tel: 01505 690426.

Portable Foolscap filing cabinet/case in tough blue plastic, with 10 folders inside. Good condition. £5. Tel: 01505 672175.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 56-59 NEW CLASSIFIED_283 APRIL18.indd 57

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58

the advertizer ADVERTIZERS - A TO Z

BY CATEGORY Accountants & Financial Affluent Financial Planning . . 22 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 14 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 GMH Chartered Accountants . . 24 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1

Architectural Services Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Art, Gifts & Flowers Freelance Florist . . . . . . . . . 16

Driving Instructors AL Stewart - Driving School . . 15 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7

Education St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 49

Electricians Delta Electrical Services . . 12 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Russell Milne Electrician . . 22

Automotive Services

Fencing

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 59

Firewood & Logs

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 12

Bathrooms

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 15 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17

Funeral Services

Bedrooms

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 9 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 43

Garage Doors & Gates

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 12

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 45 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 4 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 9 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4,17 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 6 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 41 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 15 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 39 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 47

Business Services Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 17

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 4,6 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4,17 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5

Coffee Shops Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16

Computer, IT & Web ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24

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

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 28 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 29 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 32 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 33 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 33 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 31 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 30 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 R Williams Tree Services . . . 31 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 W & S Garden Services . . . . . . 29 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33 West of Scotland Landscape . . 28

Gas & Heating Services C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 9 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 45 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 43 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

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

Hairdressers & Barbers Adele Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 37 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 39

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 37 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 21 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 53 Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 48 FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 54 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 44 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,Bk LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 15 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 47

Home Hardware

Plumbers

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,17,21

C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 9 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 45 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 43 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 35

Home Improvements 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 28 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 21 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 32 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19

Property, Sales & Let Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Home Interiors

Removals

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 15 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19

@ease Removals & Transport . . 37 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Home Security

Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16

Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 48

Joiners A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 45 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 9 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 39 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Kilt & Dress Hire Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 8

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4

Leisure & Recreation Kilmacolm Show . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 14 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Gryffe Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 43 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Pest Control RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 6

Pet Services & Training Dog Vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 27 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 27 Walkies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 14 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 9 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 6

Restaurant & Bars Retail Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,17,21 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 36

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 4 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 14 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4,17 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 6 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 41 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 39 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 47

Solicitors Affinity Family Law Experts . . 25 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

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

Stoves Iron House Stoves Limited . . 13 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 15

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 59

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 31 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 30 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 R Williams Tree Services . . . 31 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33

TV & Satellite Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 8 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 4,6 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 48

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 4,6 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15

@ease Removals & Transport . . 37 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 28 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 29 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Adele Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Affinity Family Law Experts . . 25 Affluent Financial Planning . . 22 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 AL Stewart - Driving School . . 15 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 21 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 32 ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 37 B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 45 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 21 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 4 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 48 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 14 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 5 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 9 Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 14 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 10 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 5 Clyde Physiotherapy and Pilate . . 53 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 14 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 33 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Delta Electrical Services . . 12 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 8 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 45 DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 33 Dog Vacation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 15 Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 4,6 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 48 Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 54 Freelance Florist . . . . . . . . . 16 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 33 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,17,21 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 31 GMH Chartered Accountants . . 24 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 59 Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 8 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 45 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 Iron House Stoves Limited . . 13 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 43 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 9 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John A Kilburn . . . . . . . . . . . 43 John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 43 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 59 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 17 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4,17 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 30 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 44 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,Bk Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kilmacolm Show . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 24 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 15 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 30 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 41 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 15 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 12 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 39 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 47 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 15 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19 P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 48 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk R Williams Tree Services . . . 31 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 6 Russell Milne Electrician . . 22 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 27 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 49 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 27 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 39 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 36 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 35 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 47 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W & S Garden Services . . . . . . 29 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Walkies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 West of Scotland Landscape . . 28 Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Pick up a Copy

May ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 13 th APRIL • Delivery: 24 th APRIL

June ‘18 Issue: • Deadline: 18 th MAY • Delivery: 29 th MAY

Bishopton: Woodrow’s Store, Library Bridge of Weir: Gibb Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe, Lochnagar, The Bridge, Library (Cargill Hall) Erskine: Garden Centre, Library, Sports Centre, Swimming pool

deadline date for our may issue - Friday 56-59 NEW CLASSIFIED_283 APRIL18.indd 58

Houston: Co-op, Carrick Centre, Post Office, Newsagent Howwood: Village Store, St Vincent’s Hospice Johnstone: Henderson Kilts, Papa Mac’s, Library Kilbarchan: Sheridan’s Store, Post Office, Campbell’s, Newsagents, Bobbins, Old Library Centre

Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, Library, Community Centre Lochwinnoch: Keystore, Library, Dolce Vita, Castle Semple Centre Quarriers: Three Sisters Bake

13th April - You don’t want to miss it!!

22/03/2018 15:31:34

april 2018

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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Using a phone or a sat nav when driving It’s illegal to hold a phone or sat nav while driving or riding a motorcycle.

You must have hands-free access, such as: • a bluetooth headset • voice command • a dashboard holder or mat • a windscreen mount • a built-in sat nav The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead.

You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times. The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted.

The law still applies to you if you’re:

Check the MOT history of a vehicle Is the car you want to buy, or already own, one of the 1 in 13 vehicles with an outstanding safety recall? You can #checkarecall to find out www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall Check the past results of a vehicle’s MOT tests at https://www.gov.uk/ check-mot-history, including:

• stopped at traffic lights

• if it passed or failed

• queuing in traffic

• the mileage recorded when it was tested

• supervising a learner driver

• what parts failed at each test, and if any parts had minor problems

When you can use a hand-held phone?

You can use a hand-held phone if either of these apply: • you’re safely parked • you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop Penalties You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a hand-held phone when driving. You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years.

You can get 3 penalty points if you don’t have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle.

You can also be taken to court where you can: • be banned from driving or riding • get a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or bus) Visit https://www.gov.uk/using-mobile-phones-when-driving-the-law to find out more

• when its next MOT is due You can only get results for tests done in England, Scotland or Wales since 2005.

Before you start You need the vehicle’s plate (registration number).

number

You can see the results as soon as the MOT centre has recorded the test result.

SEE A POTHOLE? REPORT IT! Call 01475 717171 or Report online at https://myaccount.inverclyde.gov.uk/site/inve rclydewss/home/Pothole You can also write to: Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings Clyde Square, GREENOCK PA15 1LY

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

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 56-59 NEW CLASSIFIED_283 APRIL18.indd 59

22/03/2018 15:31:38

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t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Elderslie • Houston • Howwood • Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank • Lochwinnoch • Quarriers

Pick up a Copy

Bishopton: Woodrow’s Store, Library Bridge of Weir: Gibb Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe, Lochnagar, The Bridge, Library (Cargill Hall)

Erskine: Garden Centre, Library, Sports Centre, Swimming pool Houston: Co-op, Carrick Centre, Post Office, Newsagent Howwood: Village Store, St Vincent’s Hospice

Johnstone: Henderson Kilts, Papa Mac’s, Library Kilbarchan: Sheridan’s Store, Post Office, Campbell’s, Newsagents, Bobbins, Old Library Centre Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre

Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, Library, Community Centre Lochwinnoch: Keystore, Library, Dolce Vita, Castle Semple Centre Quarriers: Three Sisters Bake

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01+60 COVER_283 APRIL18.indd 60

21/03/2018 09:07:18