291 December 18 - Gryffe Advertizer

December 2018 No.291

Christmas Windows at Gibb Stuart

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No. 291

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December 2018

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your LOCAL community magazine

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A community magazine delivered FREE to homes in the Gryffe area 01+60 COVER_291 DECEMBER 18.indd 1

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Advertising Feature

What’s growing in your gutter?

Are they clear and ready for the winter downpours? We can remove moss, plants, silt, twigs etc., that can block the gutter and stop the water from flowing down the spout where it should go, causing them to overflow and potentially causing damage to the outside of your home.

We use a state of the art carbon fibre gutter vacuum system which is safer for your gutters and safer for us giving a more efficient & effective clean than old fashioned methods whilst potentially saving you money. Call now for a free quote on 01505 863 863.

This month

It’s less frustrating to be held up at the traffic lights in Bridge of Weir just now. Once again, the lovely windows at Gibb Stuart’s are a treat and certainly getting me in the festive mood. Sandy, Christine and their elves work wonders each year, and if you are a facebooker you can also see a number of displays from previous years on their FB page.

I’m delighted to see that work has finally begun at the former Bull’s Garage site. The developer told me they are in the process of preparing the site, by demolishing the existing garages in order to complete the site investigation and enabling works. Works are planned to begin on the lower site early in 2019 and are expected to be completed by mid 2020. The plans are still for a care home, retail units and parking.

Staying with Bridge of Weir, I noticed that this time last year I was ranting about the traffic island leaving the village for Kilmacolm. The bollards had been so badly damaged that the island was almost impossible to see at night. Sadly, this is still the case. However, the Community Council has met with a senior officer from the Roads Department to discuss improvements to road traffic safety at each of the entrances to the Village. These include improved lighting and signage, and refreshing road markings.

Work at the former library site in Kilmacolm is now well underway. Due to delays with the previous contractors, the Co-op itself took over completion of the building work, and hopefully by the time you are reading this, the Co-op on the ground floor will at last be open. The flats will be completed in due course.

The annual Santa Sleigh will be visiting the villages soon, weather permitting!

We’ve got the dates in our diary and on Facebook. Unfortunately, if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, then due to a shortage of volunteers these nights cannot be rescheduled. Local groups get involved in helping out on each night, to raise funds for their cause. Thanks again to all the volunteers who make this happen, and thank you for the generous donations from you all. It’s not too late to get involved and if you can spare some time for a great cause then please get in touch with Santa’s Helpers (aka Bridge of Weir Festival committee).

The Christmas lights are going on in all the villages, many with a very special visitor doing the honours! Again we’ve got the dates in our diary. Apologies if we’ve missed any.

We will be bringing our January Advertizer issue deadline forward a couple of days to Wednesday 12th December. Our January 2019 issue has to be printed before Christmas, so please send in your news etc in plenty of time.

The January issue will be delivered between Boxing Day and Hogmanay.

Our second issue of INSIGHT magazine has just been published and is currently being distributed. You can see it online at http://www.advertizer. co.uk/insight/

Important dates for our January ‘19 Issue

Deadline: 12th December Delivery: 27th December

And finally, a shout out to some very good samaritans out there. Jason Andrews of River Inn/Fox & Hounds has offered to supply the 3 course buffet for the Boxing Day dinner run by ‘A Helping Hand - Paisley’. Ian Beaton of Beaton Brothers Coalmerchants very kindly donated bags of fuel to a very worthy cause. And Sarah and Kimberley Cameron, who volunteer for Radio Lollipop Glasgow have just launched a Christmas Toy Appeal and are collecting new/ unused toys to give to children in hospital on Christmas Day. The girls can collect any donations, and have also organised a drop off point at Melrose Beauty & Tanning, Kirkinner Place, Bridge of Weir. If you know of any others who deserve a shout, please let me know!

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas!

Rona

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

Contents

local news...............4-15 what’s on ............. 16-21 finance & tech..... 22-25 school news......... 26-31 outdoors................32-37 local history.......... 36-37 pet news .............. 38-39

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village news......... 40-51 sport news ........... 52-55 business classified ... 56 sales & wants ............ 57 advertizer directory... 58 pick up a copy ........... 58 on the road ................ 59

Contact us

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The Advertizer

S.I.Paisley Help for Homeless The main focus of work for members of S.I.Paisley this year is support for homeless people, in particular women. So far this autumn, members have heard about the work of the Simon Community and collected 90 pairs of pants and 300 sanitary pads which were given to them for distribution to homeless women.

One member, who owns her own handbag company, handed over brand new satchel style bags and handbags for the Simon Community to hand out. The speaker from the Simon Community said that for some women this might well be the first new handbag that they had ever had and also that young Homeless College Students would feel more like their compatriots with a proper college style bag to take with them.

In addition, thirty five bags were filled with basic items such as toothpaste / brushes and pants - these were given to the Lodging House Mission in Glasgow who will distribute them appropriately.

Members will continue to collect items throughout this year as well as raise funds for both organisations.

Gryffe High are top of the class for fair trade Recycling bins set to be delivered across Renfrewshire New recycling bins are set to roll out across Renfrewshire with bin collection changes for residents.

The new green bin will be for plastics, cans and glass and the blue bin will now be for paper, card and cardboard only.

The new service is part of a drive to improve recycling in Renfrewshire and reduce the costs associated with disposing of general waste.

Information packs specific to each household in Renfrewshire will ensure residents are fully informed of what the new service means for them.

Gryffe High School has scooped an award for their support of fair trade within Renfrewshire. The school made it a treble as their dedicated fair trade group took home the secondary schools award for the third successive year.

Their exceptional work included hosting a visit from a fair trade producer, introducing Fairtrade footballs to the PE department and hosting a number of events such as a bake off, ice cream stall and smoothie stall.

Fair trade is also embedded into the curriculum with Modern Studies, English and Social Subjects all having an element of the issue included.

Heather Rowan, Head of Citizenship at Gryffe High, said: “We are delighted to win the Fair Trade trophy for the third time.

“Our pupils are thrilled that their efforts to promote fair trade have been recognised and this will continue to motivate them to raise awareness both in school and in our wider community.”

Renfrewshire has a long history of supporting fair trade and the Renfrewshire Fairtrade Steering Group meets regularly to discuss how the issue can be promoted throughout the area. Membership is open to all and anyone who is interested is invited to attend and meet like-minded people who wish to advance the cause in Renfrewshire.

For more information, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/fairtrade.

The packs will provide clear guidance on what should go in what bin, a full calendar of when each bin should go out and details on any change in collection day.

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “We’ve been working hard to ensure we provide residents with all the information they need to adapt to the new service and we would encourage all residents to read their information pack closely as it outlines what the changes mean for them. Please make sure you start using the new bin as soon as it arrives.

“We’re here to support residents with the new service so if you have any questions then please get in touch.”

The first collection of the new bins will take place from 3rd December and residents should consult their calendar for full details.

For more information and a full list of FAQs, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ mybins.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Advertising Feature

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 ďŹ x 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.

www.advertizer.co.uk The place for news, events & business listings for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde

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Be a member of your Local Partnership

Work begins on temporary Paisley Central Library

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson is calling on enthusiastic community members to sign up for their nearest Local Partnership and have their say on the issues that matter locally.

The library left its former home next to Paisley Museum in September when the building closed for a £42m revamp to turn the museum into an internationalclass destination. Library provision will eventually move to a new state-of -theart learning and cultural hub being created in Paisley’s High Street. Until this is complete in 2021, a temporary library will be provided next to the Lagoon Leisure Centre.

Replacing the previous Local Area Committees (LACs), the partnerships aim to be more inclusive and give local people more of a role in decision making at a local level. A series of community events have been taking place across Renfrewshire to introduce the new Partnerships and to encourage people to become community representatives.

Councillor Nicolson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people to have their say on the issues that matter to them within their community. It’s important that the opinions of local people are highlighted and that decisions are made with the thoughts of local people in mind. I’d encourage anyone who has a passion for their community to put their name forward.”

The first official meetings of the new partnerships were due to take place over the next few weeks but will be rescheduled to early 2019 to ensure that all interested community members have a chance to express their interest in being part of a Local Partnership.

Councillor Nicolson added: “It was clear from the community events that people are very positive about the move to the new Local Partnerships but need more time to submit their applications to be a member. We want to give everyone the opportunity to be a part of the new partnerships as they are about achieving a range of views and working together as a community to make the local area better. So, get in touch to put your name forward and take this opportunity to make a difference.”

The modular building will take over part of the facility’s south car park and will house the most popular items from the collection, as well as some public access PCs. As a result, a number of car parking spaces within the Lagoon Car Park will be lost but Bridge Street Car Park is open and available for public use.

Until the temporary library opens, a number of public-access PCs are also available for library users in the council office at 5a High Street. The hugelypopular Bookbug sessions will move to the main Lagoon building until the temporary library is ready early next year. The new learning and cultural hub will bring back into use a long-term vacant building on the High Street and create a modern flagship community learning hub for the whole area, while also hosting the existing library collections.

Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, chair of Renfrewshire Leisure, said: “Over the next few years, the £100m investment in Paisley’s venues will ensure that the future of some of our best-loved heritage buildings is preserved by turning them into modern community facilities”.

Other big projects as part of the same programme include a £22m transformation of the interior of Paisley Town Hall to create one of the West of Scotland’s key entertainment venues, an upgrade of Paisley Arts Centre and major investment in town centre outdoor spaces and transport links. For more info on library services, visit: www.renfrewshireleisure.com

Seven new Local Partnerships will replace the previous five Local Area Committees, with membership split evenly between local elected members, and local community representatives. Local Partnerships will continue to allocate funding to local voluntary and community groups.

For more information on the Local Partnerships and to submit your application to become a member, visit: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/localpartnerships.

YOU CAN VIEW OUR NEW SISTER MAGAZINE INSIGHT ONLINE NEXT WEEK. VISIT WWW.ADVERTIZER.CO.UK/INSIGHT Photo: The High Street site in Paisley town centre which will house the new Learning & Cultural Hub.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Monument Unveiled BAE Systems has unveiled a monument at Dargavel Village, Bishopton, to commemorate the historical significance and regeneration of the former Bishopton and Georgetown factories that were operational from 1915 to 2002.

Situated in Craigton Park on the Dargavel Village development, the circular monument includes a Victorian-era cannon as its centre-piece, positioned to allow the sun to shine through an opening in the western stone wall onto the cannon at sunset on 11th November.

Presented to the Bishopton and Georgetown communities by BAE Systems, the cannon, built in 1841, has been restored at the company’s Glasgow-based shipyard before being installed at the Dargavel Village. The surrounding wall is built from stone reclaimed from the former manor and farm houses that were located on the site prior to the factory.

Commenting at the unveiling, Jon Gettinby, Bishopton Programme Manager, BAE Systems said: “We recognise the historical significance of the former Bishopton and Georgetown factories and we wanted to give the local community a permanent monument that commemorates the history of the area. As we continue to regenerate the former factory site into a thriving community for the future, it is important that we remember its history and the contribution of the local community.”

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The Advertizer

Christmas Sparkler Ladies’ Lunch Join us at the Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow on Sunday 2nd December for our hugely popular St. Vincent’s Hospice Christmas Sparkler Ladies’ Lunch!

The afternoon will begin with a sparkling drinks reception and the opportunity to browse and shop amongst our exclusive selection of Hospice pop-up stalls, followed by a delicious three-course lunch.

Our host for the afternoon will be the fabulously entertaining Steve McKenna, who will guide us through all the festivities on the day.

Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes, and take to the floor with our amazing band “Could it be Take That” taking you on a journey through their smash hits from the early 1990’s to the present day.

As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary of offering essential care for countless individuals and families all across Renfrewshire, this is a perfect opportunity for you to support us, and enjoy a glamorous, entertaining afternoon with friends.

For further information or to purchase tickets please call 01505 705635 or email: info@svh.co.uk.

Remember Loved Ones at Hospice Light up A Life Service Ardgowan Hospice invites members of the community to remember loved ones by attending its service of remembrance at Westburn Church, Nelson Street, Greenock on Sunday 6th December at 6.30pm.

The moving and uplifting service of remembrance will culminate with the switch on of hundreds of twinkly lights on the 60 foot tree, in celebration of the lives of family and friends at this special time of year.

The service will mark the culmination of the Light up A Life Appeal which raises valuable funds to support the hospice. This appeal is an opportunity for family and friends to dedicate a light on a tree and make it shine bright in celebration of light and love. A personal message can be written on a special star either to be hung at home or on the tree in our Day Hospice.

The Light up a Life Appeal will open this month (November) and will feature the family of Jennifer Stewart-Shaw who was supported by the hospice and died aged 30 and leaves a daughter age 3, husband, mother, sister, brother and lots of family and friends. Donations can be made online at www.ardgowanhospice. org.uk and forms are also available in the local Ardgowan shop in Kilmacolm.

The Big Sing In concert, the West of Scotland Military Wives Choir and Falkirk Junior Gaelic Choir (Under 19’s), on Sunday 2nd December, 7pm until 9.30pm.

The event takes place at The Sanctuary, Orchardhill Parish Church, Giffnock G46 6JR and all proceeds raised will go towards supporting families impacted by Huntington’s disease Entry £10 - To pay online please contact Linda on 0141 848 0308 or by visiting www.hdscotland.org

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society Our audiences thoroughly enjoyed our four performances of Sleeping Beauty in Kilmacolm’s Kidston Hall in November.

We also held a very enjoyable Quiz Night in Strathgryffe Tennis Club at the end of November. All of us in KDS love putting on our plays and pantos, but our costs are now so high that we need to increase our fundraising efforts and events. Look out for details of more fundraising events next year.

We hope our next production will be Stepping Out by Richard Harris on 11th, 12th and 13th April. We’ll be having a reading of the play at 7pm on Monday 14th January in Kilmacolm Community Centre, with the audition there too at 7pm on Thursday 17th January. If you’re interested in being involved in any way – on stage or backstage – Megan Smith and Kevin Curran we’d love to see you there. As well as played Princess Beauty and Prince actors, we need people to help with Michael lighting, sound, set design and building, costumes, hair, props, make-up, and prompting, so we’re always delighted to welcome new members.

If you’d like more information, contact Claire Fraser (claire.fraser@scotech.ltd. uk) or Rosie Thirde (rosiethirde33@gmail.com )

YOU CAN VIEW OUR NEW SISTER MAGAZINE INSIGHT ONLINE FROM NEXT WEEK.

VISIT WWW.ADVERTIZER.CO.UK/INSIGHT

3 boys (from left) Elijah Ross, Benjamin Ross and Patrick McAlindon, three of the younger cast members of Sleeping Beauty

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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The Advertizer

Dry Eyes

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common conditions worldwide, and certainly one which we deal with on a daily basis. Typically both eyes are affected, often bloodshot, sometimes a bit sticky on waking up. There can also be intermittent blurring of vision which clears just after blinking. Other symptoms include gritty, itchy, burning, filmy, and even watery eyes. The severity of symptoms is hugely variable but usually mild. The two basic categories are when not enough tears are produced, or when tears evaporate too quickly (much more common).

Causes of dry eyes can be increasing age, dehydration, hormonal changes, certain medications, previous eye surgery or underlying eye or health conditions.

Environmental factors such as air-conditioning and using computers can also cause dry eyes. One study showed that for every 7 hours of computer use, the average user will have lost out on 4,000 blinks due to a reduced blink rate!

There are various treatments available for the mild dry eye sufferer. Simple lubricants 2 - 4 times a day and eyelid hygiene is all that is usually required.

There are watery drops which don’t affect vision but only provide short-term relief. Gels will relieve symptoms for longer with only a slight initial blurring of vision for 1 - 2 minutes. For maximum relief ointments are best, usually lasting for hours but with noticeable blurring of vision for several minutes – typically these are used just before bed.

For the more severe sufferer, drops will be needed more often and in certain cases antibiotics or anti-inflammatories may also be necessary. Extra treatments are also available if required, such as punctal plugging where tiny plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to restrict the drainage of the tears.

SANTA SLEIGH DECEMBER 2018 Houston - 2nd - 7th Kilmacolm - 8th (lower) & 10th (upper) Brookfield - 9th Bridge of Weir - 11th - 15th Quarriers - 16th Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Flowers by Margo Christmas at Gowanlea

This year festive cheer can be found nestled within Snowy White Chrysanths, Winter Hyacinths, Cardinal Christmas Roses, Green Ivy and the Striking Red Blooms of Poinsettia so why not send some of that cheer to someone dear with a Christmas bouquet or basket arranged lovingly and attentively by our incredible floral team.

“It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.” ~ W. T. Ellis As the festive season ushers in the crisp winter nights and morning dew gives way for frost glinting and glittering in the street, we at Gowanlea Nurseries have been working round the clock to bring you a magical and merry Christmas experience this year.

Visually stunning, scented beautifully and unbeatably fresh every arrangement that leaves our shop this Christmas is guaranteed to please whether it’s a thoughtful gift for someone special or a compliment to this year’s Christmas decorations.

Wander amongst luscious deep green Scottish pines, majestic firs and traditional spruces as the delicate aroma of the thousands of hand selected, fresh cut Christmas trees surrounds you within our indoor display and viewing area.

No Christmas comes without tradition and we are delighted to invite you into ours - every weekend this December we will be serving complimentary warm mince pies, chestnuts roasted over open flame and a drop of beautiful mulled wine, let our family give the perfect festive day out to your family.

www.gowanleanurseries.co.uk

Our ever popular and simply stunning collection of beautiful handmade holly and fir wreaths are available in store throughout December with orders being taken now and delivery available on all orders.

www.flowersbymargo.co.uk

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our loyal customers, a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Open 7 days Tel No. 01505 328921 - Barrochan Road, Johnstone PA5 8YS

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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The Advertizer

Give The Gift Of Hope This Christmas Dear Residents of Renfrewshire, Everyone should have enough food to eat, but this is not the case.

In Renfrewshire, people are going without food. People coming to the Foodbank have been missing meals, often for days at a time. This may be because of unpredictable, insecure work with an unreliable income; unexpected benefit delays or an unexpected bill can enough to leave someone on a low income without enough money to buy food.

Please help provide food to local people who are struggling to buy food for themselves and their families, by supporting the Renfrewshire Foodbank Christmas Appeal.

A single donation of £31 could provide a single person with a nutritionally balanced, non-perishable Food Parcel, tea & biscuits at the Foodbank, and support to resolve the underlying cause of the problem.

A single donation of £63 could provide a nutritionally balanced, non-perishable Food Parcel for a couple, tea & biscuits at the Foodbank, and support to resolve the underlying cause of the problem.

A single donation of £126 could provide a nutritionally balanced, non-perishable Food Parcel for a Family, tea & biscuits at the Foodbank, and support to resolve the underlying cause of the problem.

A regular Monthly Donation of £10 could provide a Child with Food for Two Weeks. A regular Monthly Donation of £20 could provide a Child with Food for a Month.

Donate by Printing & Mailing a Form at: renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk/givehelp/donate-money Donate Securely Online at: www.give.net/FoodBankChristmas

CHAS Local Fundraiser

Ardgowan Hospice’s Annual Ball 2019!

On Saturday 4th August, a group of local youngsters set up a Bake Sale and Raffle Stall at the Grassy Hill on Gryfebank Avenue. Their aim was to raise funds for CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland), in particular Robin’s House Children’s Hospice in Balloch.

Saturday 9th March 2019, Greenock Town Hall, 7pm til late The Ardgowan Hospice Ball supported by Arnold Clark is now on sale, don’t miss out on a magical evening at one of the most important events in the Hospice calendar!

Returning to host the event will be the host of the Peter and Roughie Football Show, Peter Martin and guests will be entertained into the night by The Brightside. See The Brightside in action at our 2018 Masquerade Ball.

The group of children included Euan, Marc, Anaïs, Beth, Louise, Niamh and Alana. They all baked and donated cakes and bags of sweets to sell. Each of their families donated raffle prizes as well as generous local residents too. The final total raised was £250.89. On behalf of all the children and everyone at CHAS, thank you so much to all for your support.

Tables of 10 are £550 and guests will be treated to a Sparkling reception.

Celebrity host Peter Martin, live music from The Brightside and a sumptuous three Course meal. Also Silent auction, Live Auction and more.

A limited number of tables of 12 are also available. To book one of these, call Alex on 01475 558888 or email fundraising@ardhosp.co.uk We look forward to seeing you there for an enjoyable evening to raise vital funds for your local hospice.

Orchard Flooring

Advertising Feature

Where beauty meets functionality When choosing a new floor for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration. For a lot of our clients, having a floor that isn’t going to be ruined by mucky feet, paw prints or spills is a top priority. As well as looking great and tying in with the rest of your fittings and furnishings.

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

Both are easy to clean and without the porous qualities of wood and some stone. They bring the ageless beauty of natural flooring to your home without the hassle. As opposed to some natural products they are also warmer under foot and comfortable to walk on.

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

With a home sampling service why not give us a call and be on your way to a stunning floor from Orchard Flooring who have built their reputation in the Gryffe area for nearly 20 years.

You can contact Scott on 0141 334 8731or 07563 633 432 Email - sjmproducts@hotmail.com website- www.orchard-flooring.com

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Dental Blog

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by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner at Kilbarchan Dental Practice As Christmas is a time for giving we thought we would give you our guide to looking after your teeth over the festive period!

If you are looking for some gift ideas electric toothbrushes make a great present - from stocking fillers at less than £20 and special designs for kids to hi tech models with pressure sensors and some that track your brushing and sync with your phone (like a Fit-Bit for teeth!).

A course of teeth whitening in the lead up to Christmas and the New Year will help you look your best and also makes a more imaginative Christmas gift (initial consultation required). At KDP we also offer gift vouchers, gift bags with whitening strips and bleaching toothpaste as well as kids gift bags too.

Most of us will partake in the odd social drink or two but remember that most alcoholic drinks contain a lot of sugar and can be highly acidic attacking the enamel that protects your teeth. Try and have them with meals and drink lots of water between times rather than the sugary soft drinks on offer.

Try to avoid too much dried fruit (it is one of the main ingredients in Christmas Cake and Mince Pies) as it is high in sugar and coats the teeth in a sugary film.

Ideally brush your teeth about an hour after eating and see if you can cut back on snacking on crisps and sweets that give rise to bacteria. Nuts or Crudités are a healthier alternative and cheese is great too as it helps to neutralise acid.

Don’t leave a visit to the dentist until the last minute, we get very busy at this time of year and it can be difficult to get an appointment.

Most importantly HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS! From all at Kilbarchan Dental Practice.

If you have any queries about any areas of dental health visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips and advice.

Keep up to date with all the events this festive season at

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The Advertizer

Carolling at Christmas

As part of their music therapy project alongside Nordoff Robbins, St. Vincent’s Hospice are excited to announce that they are offering you the chance to get into the festive spirit and join their Carolling at Christmas event on Tuesday 18th of December.

The Hospice are not only encouraging people to come along to watch on the night between 6pm - 8pm, but also to join the choir, spread some holiday cheer and see the positive difference music can make to the lives of our patients, family, staff, volunteers and service users.

Rehearsals will take place on Tuesday 4th and 11th December from 6pm – 7pm, with no previous singing experience required.

Laura Burns, Music Therapist from Nordoff Robbins, said: “Carolling at Christmas is part of a music therapy project funded by The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, and as a result I have been working with the patients, loved ones and the staff of St. Vincent’s Hospice for three months now, and I am really excited to invite everyone in the community to get involved this Christmas.

“Music has a universal power to reach us all, and our therapy uses elements of music to break down barriers of illness, or disability, and builds bridges to help with self-expression and social contact.

“This Christmas, why not try something new? Something different? Join our choir, spread some festive spirit and see the benefit this has had to the patients of St. Vincent’s Hospice.

And if singing isn’t your thing, please come along and show your support on Tuesday the 18th!”

St. Vincent’s Hospice is a specialist provider of palliative and Hospice care for individuals and families affected by life-limiting conditions from across Renfrewshire.

For more information, call 01505 705 635 or email laura.burns@ nordoff-robbins.org.uk

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

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Local Girls Raise Money With Plaster It Purple!

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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We have done many fundraising events over the years to thank Yorkhill (now Glasgow Children’s Hospital) for all they have done for Freya. She has supported many of these with us. However, with Freya getting older she had asked to do more herself. I keep in regular contact with the charity team so from there Freya decided she would like to join in with Plaster it Purple in her class.

I spoke with the school who agreed but also suggested the full school get involved. With this, my 2 daughters Freya and Niamh (Scally), along with my niece Kate-Lynn (Morrison) and their best friend Daisy (Adams).

The girls held a wee stall on Friday 2nd November in school where donations could be made for the full school (teachers included) all wearing purple. In return the girls had some sweet treats for everyone like: purple decorated cupcakes, homemade purple sparkly chocolate lollies, bags of homemade chocolate sweets, homemade tablet, plus some other sweets like Haribo’s etc.

Freya was born premature at 34 weeks in 2008. Due to a condition I had called Prolonged SRM (Spontaneous Rupture of the Membrane)... basically my waters had been leaking from between 16 to 18 weeks leaving Freya with no amniotic fluid.

Due to this, I was hospitalised at 28 weeks pregnant, with Freya folded like a Kirby in an extended breach position. Although Freya was born premature, the pediatricians were happy there was no damage to Freya and had no concerns, with Freya baffling the consultants.

Until the summer of 2012, when Freya took very unwell with severe stomach pain. Initially it was thought it was appendicitis, with Freya passing out in the RAH OUT OF HOURS with the pain. She was rushed to Yorkhill by ambulance, where they gave her morphine and operated immediately.

It was then they discovered, that due to the complications during pregnancy Freya had a malrotated bowel that had gone volvulus.

Her bowel, stomach, bladder and appendix were all in the wrong position due to the position she was in during the pregnancy, her organs unable to go into their correct position. Her bowel then twisted (volvulus) on its self causing the pain. She had an operation on the 1st July 2012 to correct this, recovering fairly quickly she returned home. However, Freya was hospitalised again in the 15th of July, where she remained until August. She had various tests and examinations done, which gave no answers. She was operated on again on the 29th of July to discover she had LAD Bands (large thick adhesions) again strangling her bowel. This too was corrected through another intensive surgery, with Freya again baffling the surgeons this time.

Since this, Freya regularly attends the new Glasgow Children’s Hospital for check ups. She is one of the poster children for the hospital too, which she is really proud of! She has a strong positive relationship with Miss Brindley the surgeon who Freya says “Saved my life” she is the only person trusts, due to her now having anxiety as a result of all her trauma with surgery etc.

We honestly can’t thank the hospital and all the staff for their support over the years. Without them, Freya wouldn’t be here and now raising the money to thank them in return.

Nicola Scally

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 08-15 LOCAL NEWS_291 DECEMBER 18.indd 15

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The Advertizer

DECEMBER WED 28 NOVEMBER

FRI 30 NOVEMBER

SAT 1 DECEMBER

SUN 2 DECEMBER

Johnstone High Christmas Gift and Craft Fayre

Houston and Killellan Agricultural Society Quiz Night

Houston Christmas Lights Switch On

Bishopton Christmas Tree Light Switch On Ceremony

Johnstone High School, Beith Road, Johnstone PA5 0JN 6pm to 8pm Jump right into the Christmas spirit at our annual Christmas Gift and Craft Fayre. Plenty to choose from with over 30 stalls, gifts for all the family. We welcome back Liz’s beaded jewellery, Kilbarchan soaps, The wood old days, Gifts to keep and many more .......... Get lucky on the raffle and tombola and join in with a singsong with our school choir. Entry £2/ Under 12 go free (inc tea/coffee).

Gryffe High School Xmas Fayre

Houston Bowling Club 7.30pm Ticket price includes a light supper and are available from committee members and Isabelle Stuart on 01505 613479 or e-mail: issistuart@gmail.com £5.

KDS - Scottish Themed Quiz Night

Strathgryffe Tennis Squash & Fitness Club, 51 Fleming Road, Houston, PA6 7EU Full details and tickets can be obtained by contacting John Gilchrist by email: gilchy57@ gmail.com or phone: 01475 540392

Gryffe High School, Old Bridge of Weir Road, Houston 6.30pm - 8.30pm Please come along to our Xmas Fayre and support our fundraising efforts whilst enjoying festive music, food and shopping. Tickets are £3 for adults and £1 for school aged children which includes tea/coffee/mulled wine & a mince pie or shortbread.

Christmas Lights 2018 - Gourock

THU 29 NOVEMBER

Pop Up Shop - Brighter Bridge of Weir

Gibb Stuart Late Night Opening

Gibb Stuart Hardware, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 5pm to 8pm Need some time for Christmas shopping?

Come along to Gibb Stuart’s late night openings for extra special discounts and deals on the night! We’re open until 8pm - also on Thursday 6th, 13th and 20th December.

FRI 30 NOVEMBER Scott Gibson Comedy Tour Comes to Lochwinnoch

McKillop Hall, Main Street, Lochwinnoch Tickets: £10 (£8 concession) Tickets for sale “Now and Then” the “Junction café” Lochwinnoch Online www.ents24.com/ uk/tour-dates/scott-gibson or call 07868 752814.

Gourock, 6pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the town.

SAT 1 DECEMBER Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 10am - 1pm.

As well as our hugely popular rustic reindeer, there will be rustic santas, rustic snowmen and planters, unique hand-made Christmas cards, candles, decorative wreaths, cakes, confections and preserves (our bramble jelly is delicious!) and more.

2nd Bridge of Weir Guides Christmas Craft Coffee Morning

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 10am to 12.30pm Please come along and support this fantastic event!

Johnstone Christmas Lights Switch-On

Johnstone Town Centre 12noon Family entertainment throughout the afternoon in Houstoun Square, with live music, Christmas activities and a fun fair before the town’s Christmas lights are officially switched on.

Main Street, Houston, PA6 7EL 4pm Organised by Houston Community Council in association with Houston & St Fillan’s Primary Schools

Kilbarchan Parish Church Christmas Fayre

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 10am to 12noon A large variety of gift stalls and the opportunity for children to have their photo taken with Santa. Entrance is £3, which includes coffee, mince pies and shortbread.

SAT 1 - SUN 2 DECEMBER Extravaganza by Greenock Art Club

Greenock Art Club, Gourock Park, Broomberry Drive, Gourock 10am to 5pm Original paintings and prints, hand crafted cushions and bags, jewellery and other ornate items, cards. Please come along and join in the fun. There will be teas, coffee and home baking. Open 10am to 5pm each day.

Free entry.

SAT 1 - SAT 8 DECEMBER Freezin - the Panto!

Johnstone Town Hall, Johnstone Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group presents the story of the Snow Queen. Sat 1st until Sat 8th December (including Saturday matinee).

Evening shows - doors 7pm / curtain up 7.30pm | Matinee - doors 1.30pm / curtain up 2pm. Tickets price £14 (adults) or £11 (concession) Book tickets now on 07748 827727 / jptg.tickets@gmail.com Note: Booking number open between 4.30pm & 6.30pm - outwith these times please leave a message.

SUN 2 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Houston

Houston Village from 6pm South Mound, Glenartney, St Fillans Dr, Manse Cres, Hagart Rd, Speirs Rd, Glebe Gdns, Four Windings, South St, North St, Fleming Rd, Burnlea Cres, Houstonfield Quad, Houstonfield Rd, Kirk Rd, Kilmacolm Rd, Fields Lane, Cricketfield Lane, Old School House Lane, Barochan Rd.

Brookfield Christmas Tree Light Switch On

SANTA SLEIGH DECEMBER 2018 Houston - 2nd - 7th Kilmacolm - 8th (lower) & 10th (upper) Brookfield - 9th Bridge of Weir - 11th - 15th Quarriers - 16th Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 5.30pm The perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Join a candlelight procession to the Millennium Garden where our group of village brass players – the Brookfield Brass Necks – will entertain us with some Christmas music.

Then it’s back to the Hall for hot chocolate and mulled wine and a viewing of ‘The Snowman’ on a giant screen! Lanterns will be available to borrow if you don’t have one of your own. Once again we are grateful to Gowanlea Nursery and Garden Centre for providing a tree for the village. Free.

Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton 6.30pm Carol singing starting at 6.30pm in the community centre with the Christmas tree light switch on ceremony in the Community Centre’s car park. Singers will include children and adults from community organisations.

Refreshments available. Please leave cars at home and walk to the Centre. It is likely to be cold so please wrap up appropriately. Free.

The Big Sing

The Sanctuary, Orchardhill Parish Church, Giffnock G46 6JR 7pm to 9.30pm West of Scotland Military Wives Choir with Falkirk Junior Gaelic Choir (Under 19’s) in concert. All proceeds raised will go towards supporting families impacted by Huntington’s disease. Entry £10 - To pay online please contact Linda on 0141 848 0308 or by visiting www.hdscotland.org £10.

St Vincent’s Christmas Sparkler Ladies’ Lunch

Grand Central Hotel, 99 Gordon Street, Glasgow G1 3SF 12noon to 5pm A sparkling drinks reception, exclusive Hospice pop-up stalls and a delicious three-course lunch, all hosted by Steve McKenna! Please come along and support us, and enjoy a glamorous, entertaining afternoon with friends. For further information or to purchase tickets please call 01505 705635 or email: info@svh.co.uk.

MON 3 DECEMBER Carol Service & Christmas Lights Switch-On

Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir from 6.15pm Beginning with a Carol Service in Freeland Church with the Primary School Choir, followed by the Lights Switch-On at Livery Walk at 7pm by the village Gala Queen. Then you are invited to Santa’s Grotto in the Hope Hall from 7.20pm to 8.30pm. Also from 7pm to 9pm, Christmas Stalls at Bernie’s Cafe Deli. Please join us!

Santa Sleigh - Houston

Houston Village from 6pm Crosslee Pk, Dunnet Dr, Whirlie Rd, Back o’Hill, Strawberry Fields, Whirlie Dr, Pine Gro, Mill Brae, Crosslee Gdns, Brierie Hills Cres, Brierie Hills Rd, Brierie Lane, Brierie Gdns, Goldenlee View, Brierie Hill Gro, Earlsgate, Brierie Ave.

Kilbarchan Community Council Christmas Light Switch-On

Steeple St, Kilbarchan Village 7pm With entertainment prior to the switch on and then of course a visit from Santa.

TUE 4 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Houston

Houston Village from 6pm Crosslee Cres, Leeburn Ave, Craigholme, Woodside, The Beeches, Birch Gro, Riverside, Broomfield, The Meadows, Brackendene, Crossways, Neuk Cres, Neuk Ave.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

t: 01505 613340

WED 5 DECEMBER

FRI 7 DECEMBER

Weir Networking

Christmas Tea Dance

Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir 9.30am Business Network meeting: Breakfast starts at 9.30am with cover charge of £5. Please email colin@magifilms.co.uk or visit our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WeirNetworking-350783798430333/. We look forward to welcoming you all. £5.

Santa Sleigh - Houston

Houston Village from 6pm Locher Cres, Locher Gdns, Locher Avew, Locher Way, Locher Gait, Gryfebank Ave, Gryfewood Cres, Gr yfewood Way, Gr yfebank Clo, Gryfebank Way, Gryfebank Clo, Cunningham Gdns, Crawford Rd. Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Tinsel 5K Walk

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 11am Dig out your tinsel for a festive singsong along Lochwinnoch’s local paths. Allow 2 hrs, less if it is wet! For more information look online or contact Renfrewshire Walking Network.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Pre Christmas Event

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm As part of our 140th anniversary year FLOWER ARRANGING FOR CHRISTMAS presented by Ms Jane Gordon - Floral art arrangements auctioned at the end of the evening. Christmas Tombola, Stalls and a Raffle. Refreshments at the buffet table, with mulled wine or mulled apple. Everyone welcome, members - free, non-members. £2. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393. or see our website: www.kilmacolmhorticulturl.com.

Christmas Lights 2018 - Port Glasgow

Port Glasgow 6pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the town.

THU 6 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Houston

Houston Village from 6pm Netherburn Ave, Netherburn Gdns, Craigburn Ave, Craigburn Pl, Locherburn Pl, Locherburn Ave, Locherburn Gro, Craigburn Cres, Woodburn Pl, Hillside, Hillfoot, Fulton Gdns, Beatrice Gdns.

Outlook

Lochwinnoch Golf Club Burnfoot Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4AN Note at earlier time of 1pm (Transport from the cross at 12.45pm). Dance and sing to ‘Music box’! Tel: 07868 752814 for more information.

Christmas Lights - Quarriers Village

Quarriers Village 4pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the village.

Christmas Lights - Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 6pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the village.

Christmas Lights - Inverkip

Inverkip Village 6pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the village.

Christmas Lights - Wemyss Bay

Wemyss Bay 7pm Bring the family along and get in the festive spirit as we switch on the Christmas lights in the village.

Renfrewshire RSPB Local Group Black Grouse

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm Yvonne Boles will deliver an illustrated talk entitled ‘Black Grouse ‘ All welcome.

SAT 8 DECEMBER Old Kirk Christmas Fair

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon Santa’s Grotto, Tombola, Christmas stall & many more. Entry £2 Adults, Children Free.

St Columba’s School Christmas Fayre

St Columba’s School, Girdwood Building, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm 2pm to 5pm Fun for all the Family - Crafts, Gifts & Christmas Baking, Santa’s Grotto, Real Christmas Trees, Performances by our Junior Choir, Christmas Films, Games & Surprises Please use the Gryffe Road entrance Tel.: 01505 872238 www.st-columbas.org/christmasfayre Free Entry

The Kilbarchan Singers Christmas Carol Concert

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Building a Compassionate Community, Alison Bunce, Ardgowan Hospice

Kilbarchan Parish Church, Steeple Square, Kilbarchan, Johnstone PA10 2JD 7.30pm Doors open 7pm Tickets include a light Christmas Supper (children free) Scottish Registered Charity No. SC030603. £10.

Gibb Stuart Late Night Opening

Camera Trapping

FRI 7 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Houston

Santa Sleigh - Kilmacolm Lower

Lower Kilmacolm Village from 6pm Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

ANNING O R ARE YOU PLN EV EN T? HAD A D E DETAILS AN SEND IN THD BE ON THESE YOU COUL PAGES! VERY

01505

Houston Village from 6pm Leman Dr, Leman Gr, Alwyn Ave, Bream Pl, Viking Cres, Cormorant Ave, Forties Rd, Claymore Dr, Piper Rd, Piper Ave, Ninian Ave, Brent Cres, Murchison Rd, Hutton Ave, Hewett Cres, Dunlin Cres, Berl Ave.

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 1pm to 3pm Come and see what wildlife we have caught on camera over the year, and learn how the camera trap works. For more information tel: 01475 521458.

6133 4 0

Gibb Stuart Hardware, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 5pm to 8pm Need some time for Christmas shopping?

Come along to Gibb Stuart’s late night openings for extra special discounts and deals on the night! We’re open until 8pm - also on Thursday 13th and 20th December.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

SAT 8 DECEMBER Practical Conservation Day

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10.30am to 3pm Some hands on experience of woodland maintenance. Volunteer your time and help us clear the brashings and plant new trees after the tree feeling. For more information tel: 01505 843271.

SAT 8 - SUN 9 DECEMBER Extravaganza by Greenock Art Club

Greenock Art Club, Gourock Park, Broomberry Drive, Gourock 10am to 5pm Original paintings and prints, hand crafted cushions and bags, jewellery and other ornate items, cards. Please come along and join in the fun. There will be teas, coffee and home baking. Open 10am to 5pm each day.

Free entry.

SUN 9 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Brookfield Brookfield village from 6pm

Bridge of Weir Messy Church Annual Christingle Service

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 4pm to 6pm We will be in the church hall from 4pm - 5pm making the Christingles along with other activities. We will then move into the church for a short service, including lighting the Christingles. After that, we will go back to the hall for food and a chat. All welcome, of any age. Just turn up on the day. Free of charge but we will be collecting either donations of money for the Children’s Society or donations of new toys that will be given to children in Scotland. We hope to see you there!

MON 10 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Kilmacolm Upper

Upper Kilmacolm Village from 6pm Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled

TUE 11 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir Village from 6pm Clevans Rd, Donaldfield Rd, Thornwood Dr, Southbrae Ave, Rosemount Lane, St Andrews Dr, Dalmahoy Cres, Bellisle Cres, Sunningdale Dr, Prieston Rd, Gryffe Rd.

WED 12 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir Village from 6pm Eldin Pl, Hazelwood Rd, The Grove, Shillingworth Pl, Earl Pl, Ranfurly Rd, Steadings, Bonar Cres, Watt Lane, Montrose Ter, Kilgraston Rd, Watt Rd, Ranfurly Pl, Bankhead Rd, Kilbarchan Rd.

St Columba’s Pipe Band Village Performance

Kilmacolm Village Centre 4pm St Columba’s School Pipe Band will spread some festive cheer with a performance in the village centre. Collection in aid of Ardgowan Hospice.

Advertizer Issue Deadline

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!

THU 13 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir village from 6pm Elm Rd, Loch Rd, Loch Pl, Mill o’Gryffe Rd, Mimosa Rd, Lintwhite Crt, Lintwhite Cres, Moss Rd, Broom Pl, Gryffe Gate, Gorse Cres, St Machars Rd, Hillview Rd, Church Rd

Sòlas Bereavement Group

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

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 16-21 WHATS ON_291 DECEMBER 18.indd 17

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The Advertizer THU 13 DECEMBER

SUN 16 DECEMBER

Gibb Stuart Late Night Opening

Lochwinnoch Choral Society Christmas Concert

Gibb Stuart Hardware, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 5pm to 8pm Need some time for Christmas shopping?

Come along to Gibb Stuart’s late night openings for extra special discounts and deals on the night! We’re open until 8pm - also on Thursday 20th December.

FRI 14 DECEMBER Santa Sleigh - Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir village from 6pm Torr Rd, Horsewood Rd, Fetlar Rd, Kenbank Cres, Kenbank Rd, Thriplee Rd, Lomond Cres, Barrcraig Rd, Carruth Rd, Lawmarnock Rd, Lawmarnock Cres, Glen Brae, Troon Dr, Glendentan Rd, Turnberry Dr, Barassie Dr.

SAT 15 DECEMBER Christmas Wreaths

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 11am Learn how to create a wreath then decorate your home with foliage. Start times: 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm 1 hour sessions. Cost: £7.50 per wreath. For more information look and book online or tel 01505 842882.

Santa Sleigh - Bridge of Weir

Bridge of Weir Village from 6pm Glengowan Rd, Strathgryffe Cres, Kilmacolm Rd, Kilallan Ave, Woodside Ave, Warlock Rd, Beech Ave, Castle Rd, Park Rd, Southview Cres, Freeland Dr, Warlock Dr, Houston Rd.

SUN 16 DECEMBER

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.

Lochwinnoch Parish Church 7pm The Perfect Start to the Christmas Holidays!!

This year’s theme is ‘Christmas Bells’ with a mix of familiar carols and a few Christmas songs that might be new to some. Once again, the choir will be supported by members of the Scottish Philharmonic Orchestra, so there is bound to be something for all tastes.

Free admission to under 16’s if they are accompanied by a paying adult, so bring the whole family. Complimentary cup of mulled wine (or a soft drink) included in the ticket price. Tickets available on the door or from our brilliant local businesses, the ‘Now and Then’ shop, The Brown Bull Pub and The Junction Cafe. £8

Bridge of Weir Choral Society Christmas Concert

St Columba’s Church, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm 7.30pm Our featured composer is John Rutter and we will be singing several of his carols including ‘Rejoice and be merry’, ‘All Bells in Paradise’, and an arrangement of ‘O Holy Night’. The programme also includes ‘Totus Tuus’ by Gorecki and a selection of well known carols.

We are looking forward to welcoming the Johnstone Brass Band and St James Handbell Ringers to our concert. Tickets available from choir members and at the door. There will be tea or coffee and mince pies in the hall afterwards, in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland. £10.

MON 17 DECEMBER

Santa Sleigh - Quarriers

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club Christmas Party

Quarriers Village from 6pm Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night, due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 9.45am Come along to our Christmas party when the highlight will be a visit from Santa. All tots are welcome, accompanied by an adult!

Christmas Decoration Events

Hope Hall Christmas Celebrations

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 10.30am Join us for some festive wreath making! Start times: 10.30am & 1.30 allow approx. 1 hour.

Cost: £7.50 per wreath. For more information look and book online or tel 01475 521458.

Hope Hall, Maxwell Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NT 6pm Investigating Christmas (for kids) Please come along, we would love to see you!

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Singing is good for you and our season is short but busy.

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society will be commencing the three month session with the first practice on Tuesday the 8th January 2019 concluding with, on Sunday 17th March 2019, the concert in Paisley Abbey. The programme is J.S.Bach Magnificat in D Major and Haydn’s Missa in Tempore Belli (Mass in time of War). Both of these are new to the choir and with our new Musical Director Ondrej Soukup will make this an interesting year.

The first practice on 8th January is an open rehearsal and anyone who is interested and would like to sing with us, please come along and try us out.

The rehearsals are held at 7.30pm in Holy Trinity and St. Barnabus in the oneway system in Paisley opposite the court. There is plenty of parking near the church in Maxwell Street. The practices continue on Tuesdays until the 12th March 2019. In addition, there are practices on 4 or 5 Fridays commencing in February 2019.

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

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

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

t: 01505 613340

Classic Cars Cruise into Crowds at Castle Semple

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

The Arkleston Singers’ January Concert: Musical Legends

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This years Classics at Castle Semple was blessed with lovely autumn sunshine and fantastic crowds. Over 1,000 people came to see the classic cars as they cruised into the scenic lochside location at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park’s Castle Semple Centre.

Over 80 cars attended the event to raise funds for St Vincent’s Hospice in Howwood, a charity dear to organiser Jane Fawcetts heart. As the photo shows, this year saw an amazing total with over £1,600 raised going directly to hospice services and received

by Laura McDade of the St Vincent’s fundraising team.

Jane said “It’s such a special show. Great Laura McDade, St Vincent Hospice vehicles from all eras - some as early as with Jane Fawcett, Clyde Muirshiel and the cheque.

1921. It is known as the friendly, end of season social show amongst regulars, everyone chatting and smiling. A lovely day of autumn sunshine was a real bonus for the lovely loch side location” There were two awards this year, carefully crafted by Tonya Allan of Glenouther Crafts in Ayrshire.

Ray Doull of Glasgow took the Clyde Muirshiel Judges Choice Award, chosen

by Regional Park Countryside Ranger Claire Devlin, in his Buick Rivera special

Musical Director Marcus Kitchen (r) with The Arkleston Singers.

The Arkleston Singers is a popular Paisley based chamber choir that has been making music in and around Paisley for nearly 40 years. On the afternoon of Sunday 20th January, the choir will present a programme of up-beat favourites such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘The Rhythm of Life’ plus medleys from Lennon and McCartney and ‘Les Misérables’ along with some other beautiful and relaxing classics. In addition, there will be a raffle with a chance to win a hamper full of German food goodies.

The proceeds from the fundraising concert will be shared between choir funds and the charity Music in Hospitals & Care. This charity brings interactive live music sessions to people who are receiving care or treatment in healthcare settings across the UK. Its live musical sessions are designed to reach and connect people, to encourage communication and meaningful interactions and to elicit emotions and memories when it matters most.

The concert will be held at 3.30pm on 20th January in Holy Trinity & St Barnabas Church, St James’ Place, Paisley PA3 2AF. Tickets cost £5 and are available from members, by phone from 0141 580 6292/07398 102607 or at the door.

Ray Doull with his wonderful Buick Rivera

Alan Hewitson with his stunning Landrover Series 2

(complete with drive-in movies speakers blasting out War of the Worlds) and Power Door Best in Show trophy went to Alan Hewitson of North Ayrshire with his immaculate Landrover Series 2 - a stunning example.

It is incredible what folk have squirreled away and it certainly made for an interesting show in 2018. So save the date for Sunday 20th October 2019 when Jane will be doing it all again!

Extravaganza by Greenock Art Club In the refurbished Greenock Art Club, Gourock Park, Broomberry Drive, Gourock. On Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December, 10am to 5pm, and Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December, 10am to 5pm.

Original paintings and prints, hand crafted cushions and bags, jewellery and other ornate items, cards. Please come along and join in the fun. There will be teas, coffee and home baking. Free entry.

Bridge of Weir Choral Society Christmas Concert Sunday 16th December, St Columba Church, Kilmacolm at 7.30pm.

Our featured composer this Christmas is John Rutter. We will be singing several of his carols including ‘Rejoice and Be Merry’, ‘All Bells in Paradise’, and an arrangement of ‘O Holy Night’. The programme also includes ‘Totus Tuus’ by Gorecki and a selection of well known carols.

We are looking forward to welcoming the Johnstone Brass Band and St James Handbell Ringers to our concert. Tickets priced £10 are available from choir members and at the door. There will be tea or coffee and mince pies in the hall afterwards, in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland.

Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group presents Freezin’ - The Story of the Snow Queen In the Johnstone Town Hall from Saturday 1st December until Saturday 8th December 2018.

Ticket Booking Line: 07748 827 727 or jptg.tickets@gmail.com Ticket Cost: Adult - £14 / Concession - £11 Come along and see this new and exciting panto! Book your tickets soon - limited availability.

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EVERY MONDAY

1ST & 3RD THURS MONTHLY

Lochwinnoch Community Walk

‘Outlook’

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am This event will not take place on public holidays.

Gryffe Voices Community Choir

Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir 8pm to 9.45pm Join us to sing pop, rock, folk, show tunes, gospel.

Contact gryffevoices@gmail.com

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club

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

EVERY TUESDAY

Crafty Play Café

Gibb Stuart Hardware, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 5pm to 8pm Need some time for Christmas shopping?

Come along to Gibb Stuart’s late night opening for extra special discounts and deals on the night! We’re open until 8pm.

Outlook - Christmas Party

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

SUN 23 DECEMBER Brookfield Christmas Carol Service

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 2pm A musical celebration of Christmas with the Brookfield Brass Necks leading the carols followed by mince pies and mulled wine.

A collection will be taken in aid of a local charity. Free

Hope Hall - Christmas Carols

Hope Hall, Maxwell Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NT 4.30pm Please come along, we would love to see you!

stay up to date with what’s on in the area

Hope Hall, Maxwell Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NT 11pm Please come along, we would love to see you!

THU 27 DECEMBER Brookfield Cheese & Wine Afternoon

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 2pm This ever-popular event is the ideal opportunity for residents, visiting family members, friends and neighbours to get together for a really sociable afternoon between Christmas and New Year. Free.

THU 10 JANUARY New Dance Class in Brookfield

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield Fancy learning to dance? Well, here’s your chance! We look forward to welcoming Ballroom Basics and Latin with beginners: 7pm – 8pm and Intermediate: 8pm – 9pm. In addition, a Mixed Ability class will be held on a Saturday morning from 11am to 12.30pm. For further information, please contact Stewart (07710 464969) or Jane (07729 624798) or email:ballroombasics@live.co.uk

FRI 11 - FRI 18 JANUARY January deadline - 12 Dec 2018

Events for December

www.advertizer.co.uk/events

St Columba’s School Entrance Assessments

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm Entrance assessments for Early Years, Junior and Senior School begin on 11th January.

For the full schedule of dates please see St Columba’s update in the schools’ section. To make an appointment or for further details please visit www.st-columbas.org, contact Junior School on 01505 872768 or Senior School on 01505 872238. Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4EQ Senior School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4AU

Inverclyde Carers Outreach

2ND THURSDAY MONTHLY

Small Hall St Columba Church, Kilmacolm 7.30pm - 9.30pm All welcome.

Hope Hall - Watchnight Service

2ND WEDNESDAY MONTHLY

Bridge of Weir Walking Group Bridge of Weir Choral Society

Gibb Stuart Late Night Opening

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 7.30pm No previous craft experience necessary. Call Lorna on 01505 612844 for further details.

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am - 2pm Email enquiries@inverclydecarerscentre.org.uk or call: 01475 735180.

Outside the Co-op, BoW, 10.30am 1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000.

MON 24 DECEMBER

Crafty Hobbies

Singing for Wellbeing

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

THU 20 DECEMBER

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 2pm - 4pm Social activities group for the community in Kilmacolm. Guest speakers, afternoon tea, local issues of interest. Everyone welcome.

Quarriers Village Café, Faith Avenue, Quarriers Booking slots available 10am-12noon; 12noon -2pm; 2pm - 4pm Relax and have a coffee while your children or grandchildren play! Free entry; £2 for kids craft materials (optional)

EVERY WEDNESDAY Knitting Group

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon Knitters of all levels welcome!

Weekly Memory Café

Active Communities Hub, 16 Quarry Street, Johnstone, 10.30am -12.30pm A welcoming place for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, or any type of dementia, their families, friends & carers. Drop by to find out about Community Activities, Community Support, and professional advice.

EVERY THURSDAY

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

3RD FRIDAY MONTHLY Hearing Aid Clinic

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1 - 2pm Hearing aid batteries and hearing aid checks.

2ND SATURDAY MONTHLY ‘Brunch & Browse’

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.

LAST SATURDAY MONTHLY Table Top Sale

Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Ave 11am - 1pm This is a free event. Call 01505 328802 for details.

Weekly Volunteer Group

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm Conservation Volunteers - adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

Kilmacolm Walkers

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm, 10am David 01505 874192 kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net

EVERY FRIDAY

1ST SAT

Singing for Wellbeing

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm

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

EVERY SATURDAY Weekly Volunteer Group

10am - 2pm

1ST & 3RD SUN Loch Lomond Shores

10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers always welcome.

2ND THU & LAST SAT

EVERY SUNDAY

Paisley Cross

Weekly Volunteer Group

10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 10am - 12noon Youth Volunteer Group - age 14 - 18 years. Newcomers always welcome.

2ND SUN

Houston Litter Crew

11am - 4pm www.kipmarina.co.uk

Co-op Car Park 10am – 11.45am All volunteers welcome and all equipment supplied.

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.

Kip Marina, Inverkip

YOUR TICKET TO LOCAL EVENTS

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Memories Café Drop-in for a Chat, Tea and Home-made Cake.

We provide a fun, relaxed and helpful café providing advice on support services available locally and suggestions around ways to stay active.

Our aim is to create a dementia friendly environment.

December 2018 – Wednesday 3rd, 12th and 19th from 10.30am - 12.30pm Active Communities Hub Quarry Street, Johnstone January 2019 Starting Thursday 17th Thursday 1pm - 3pm Active Communities Hub Quarry Street, Johnstone Educate ~ Support ~ Engage

In association with M&D events, this Christmas spectacular will help the town get into the festive mood, running daily apart from Christmas Day, until Sunday 30th December!

This year’s plans will see the return of the outdoor ice rink, a Big Wheel and an improved continental Christmas market, as the town looks to attract visitors and shoppers from further afield.

Paisley First is also bringing back its successful free festive Nutcracker Trail with 15 Nutcracker Kings spread throughout the town until Sunday 30th December.

M&D Events is currently submitting the necessary consent applications to Renfrewshire Council.

Paisley First Chairman, Graeme McGowan, said: “These will be two great events to showcase everything that Paisley has to offer during the festive season.

“We will also be running our Christmas Golden Ticket competition where visitors shopping and socialising in the town centre will have four chances to win £500 of town centre gift vouchers.

And when it comes to festive shopping we have a lot of fantastic independent retailers as well as national chains throughout the town centre.

“After hitting the shops and enjoying the Christmas entertainment, visitors can take advantage of our many cafes, restaurants and bars.

“Following the success of Jurassic Bricks in the summer, the return of our Christmas events will help cement the town’s reputation as a visitor destination.”

M&D’s Events Director, Douglas Taylor, said: “WinterFest was a great success in Paisley last year and those who enjoyed the festivities made it clear that there was an appetite for it to return.

“We are working with Paisley First to ensure this event will be a great attraction for the local community, who will be eligible for discounted rates, as well as visitors from further afield.”

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A nasty phishing email circulating users data collected from a recent security breach. This mail will describe fictitious online monitoring of your web usage and, as proof, will show you a password that you may use. This is clearly alarming to the recipient but is just another rouse by organised gangs to take your money.

Earlier this year, September saw 380,000 British Airways passengers’ details leaked to hackers, earlier in August this year Air Canada had 20,000 passenger records hacked from their mobile platform. These figures pale next to Cathay Pacific’s 9 million passengers details hacked just late last month.

Some analysts speculate that this trend of successful security breaches, aimed specifically at airlines, points to the hackers’ interest in the passport details of passengers with a view to selling identities on the black market, this process is in part what is known as identity theft. This type of information is valuable in the wrong hands and is the very thing that we should be doing everything we reasonably can to protect ourselves from.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy, fraud free, New Year.

Colin Fyfe, Colcom

Where does the money go?

www.advertizer.co.uk The place for news, events & business listings for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd Doesn’t time fly? Christmas is almost here, and another year will pass. How can you ensure a more rewarding financial year next year? The key to building enough wealth is planning.

Firstly, you must understand where the money goes – and in which order. There are 5 areas your money can potentially be allocated; Taxes – The money deducted from your income that goes to the Government Must Pay costs - food, mortgage or rent, heating, bills - all the must pay things you need to pay to keep body and soul together.

Discretionary spending – buying higher quality things, lifestyle choices like shopping in better quality shops, eating out and so on.

Luxury costs – treats, fancy holidays and other costs Wealth Creation & Protection costs – the cost of insurances to protect your financial position (ill health, critical illness or death) and saving regularly to build up wealth for the future (savings plans/ISAs/ Pension contributions) The problem is that most people follow the steps 1-5 and by the time they get to 5 there’s no money left! They therefore don’t protect themselves and don’t save (enough) to ensure financial security later. To ensure a better financial future one should place wealth creation & protection before discretionary spending and luxury spending. Aim to save at least 10% of earnings if you can and live on the 90% that remains – then let mathematical compounding do the rest!

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 email info@affluentfp. co.uk. Alternatively, pop into the Affluent office opposite Amaretto restaurant on Main Street, Bridge of Weir. www.affluentfp.co.uk

Employers Encouraged to Tap into Local Talent Inverclyde Council is urging local businesses to take advantage of a scheme designed to help them expand their workforce by employing local people. The Wage Subsidy Programme is available to local small to medium sized employers and will pay 50% of the actual hourly rate, to a maximum of £5,000 or 52 weeks.

There is no restriction on the type of job that can be supported but posts must be for between 25 and 40 hours of work per week for at least a year, be additional to the existing workforce and not a replacement for a redundant employee.

Through the Inverclyde Employability Pipeline there is also free recruitment and HR support such as identifying suitable candidates and preparation of employment contracts.

Environment & Regeneration Convener Councillor Michael McCormick said: “This is a great opportunity for local businesses to tap into a wealth of talent they would not usually have access to. It is also a fantastic opportunity for local people to perhaps take their first steps on the road to a successful career and to benefit the local economy in Inverclyde.”

Full details are available at www.inverclyde.gov.uk/business-and-trade/ workforce-development/inverclyde-council-2018-19-wage-subsidy-programme

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Provost’s Community Awards The stars in Renfrewshire’s communities are set to be honoured once again this year and the long-standing sponsors of the awards have shown their support once more.

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The Advertizer

Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley CURRY NIGHT AT SHIMLA COTTAGE

Another highly successful Curry Night - organised by Sai Kumar and his International Services committee – was attended by 56 members and friends on Thursday 25th October. Those present were entertained by Peter Boyd’s piping and by Alan Watt who proposed an “Immortal Memory of a Curry” and enjoyed a choice of curries prepared by the Shimla Cottage. Funds raised totalled £900 and have been donated to the Rotary “END POLIO NOW”.

FUTURE EVENTS - Speaker Meetings:

• Wednesday 12th December – Sarah Mitchell of St Vincent’s Hospice, guest of Derek Porter • Youth Speaks: the intermediate schools competition will be held at St Columba’s at 7pm on 4th December • Santa’s Sleigh: Rotary members will be accompanying Santa’s Sleigh on 6th December in Houston and 9th December in Brookfield and raising funds to support Young Carers.

• Christmas dinner with wives and partners: Wednesday 19th December at the River Inn

Burns Supper – Saturday 12th January 2019

Glasgow Airport Ltd, ACRE Industrial, UNISON Renfrewshire and the Piazza Shopping Centre have committed yet again to sponsoring one of the awards which aims to recognise the unsung heroes of Renfrewshire.

Nominations for the 2019 awards are now open and will see six individuals or groups celebrated for their hard work and dedication within Renfrewshire.

Anyone who lives or works in Renfrewshire is invited to nominate in any of the following categories: • Community Volunteer (sponsored by Glasgow Airport Ltd) • Community Group (sponsored by the Piazza Shopping Centre) • Sporting Achievement (sponsored by ACRE Industrial) • Employee of the Year (sponsored by UNISON Renfrewshire) • Carers Award (sponsored by former Provost Nancy Allison) • Arts and Culture Award (sponsored by Renfrewshire Council) Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “We’re delighted to have the continued support of our sponsors who make it possible for me to honour some of the amazing people in our communities. It’s a fantastic part of my role being able to reward the inspiring people we see nominated every year and I can’t wait to see who is put forward this year.

“Please don’t miss the chance to give that person or group the recognition they deserve and get your nominations in now.”

The venue (the River Inn) is booked and speakers arranged for the first major social fund-raiser event of the New Year.

The deadline for entries to all categories is Wednesday 12th December.

Young Carers: Rotary are once again supporting “thank you” nights out for Young Carers on 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st January 2019 to The Experience at Hillington for Electric Go-Karting, Laser Tag, and an American buffet. Any young carers who would like to attend are encouraged to contact Pauline (Pauline@ renfrewshirecarers.org.uk).

The Provost will be joined by the award sponsors and other local elected members to choose the winners who will be invited, along with their nominator, to the awards ceremony on Friday 15th March 2019 and the Lynnhurst Hotel in Johnstone.

Gryffe Valley Rotary 10K Run –Sunday 19th May 2019

The 2019 date of the run has been moved by one month to the middle of May. Please save the date and plan your training. A main sponsor has been identified and local sports clubs and groups are being encouraged to enter teams.

For more information, and to submit your nomination, visit www.renfrewshire. gov.uk/provostawards2019, email provostawards@renfrewshire.gov.uk or call 0141 618 7102.

GVRC Speaker: Becky Haldane – “The Sailors Society”

Becky was brought up in Houston and gained a degree in divinity at the University of Glasgow. After a number of years working abroad (as a pastor, disaster relief worker and associate director of the charity Compassion First) Becky has recently returned to Scotland and been appointed Public Engagement Officer for the Sailors Society Scotland. Sailors’ Society is an international Christian charity, founded 200 years ago, that works in ports around the world, helping seafarers and their families of all faiths and none with welfare and practical support.

Becky encouraged members to share knowledge of the Sailors Society and perhaps offer support by financial donations or by purchasing BySea ethically sourced coffee via their website (www.sailors-society. org). The society depends on raising £5m/annum and helps 400,000 sailors in a typical year. The Crisis Response Network has already helped 100 sailors.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Trust your gut to spot financial abuse warning signs Residents are being reminded to trust their instincts to avoid being scammed.

Councillor John Shaw, Finance Convener for Renfrewshire Council, is reinforcing the message during Talk Money Week, the national awareness week that focuses on avoiding debt, money worries and financial harm.

Councillor Shaw said: “If something doesn’t feel right, it’s perfectly ok to speak out. You can report it to the police, social work or national support groups.

Don’t be worried about contacting anyone to help, it’s better that you and your money are safe from harm.”

Financial harm can be from bogus traders or internet scams, but people can also have their money taken away from them by relatives, friends and carers.

Key warning signs can include the sudden appearance of previously uninvolved relatives claiming rights to a person’s affairs and possessions or an unusual concern by someone that too much money is being spent on the care of the person.

Financial harm can also be the cause if someone has a lack of basic things, like TV, toiletries, clothing, or food that they should be able to afford or they have unpaid bills or overdue rent, when someone else has been given power to manage the person’s finances. Other warning signs include an older person being isolated from friends and family, not having access to their own bank account or property and money disappearing without reason.

Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, Vice-Chair of Renfrewshire Health and Social Care and Chair of Public Protection Committee, added: “Always keep an eye out for older people who are more vulnerable to financial harm but be aware that anyone can become a victim.”

To report financial harm or a suspicion of it, contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Concerns can also be reported to Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s adult protection team on 0300 300 1380.

Advice is also available from Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau on 0141 889 2121 or Action on Elder Abuse Scotland helpline 0808 808 8141.

Power of Attorney and Wills

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Cash from Crooks up for Grabs Inverclyde Council is appealing to local community youth groups to bid for a share of money seized from criminals.

Applications are now open for a share of £700,000 from the Scottish Government’s Cashback for Communities Youth Work Fund.

Education & Communities Convener Councillor Jim Clocherty said: “This money will help fund projects for children and young people who themselves run the risk of getting caught up in the criminal justice system by circumstance rather than choice. There is no doubting the link between deprivation, exclusion from education and anti-social behaviour and more serious contacts with the police and the courts.”

“We want to hear from projects targeting these issues to apply for vital funding that can benefit communities and change young lives for the better. The Council is determined to give young people every opportunity to make the most of their lives and Cashback is a great way to source extra funds.”

Cashback takes assets seized from drug dealers and other criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act and ploughs the money back into communities. Priority will be given to projects and activities which address inequalities, particularly in areas of deprivation. The closing date for applications is 1pm on Friday 7th December 2018.

More information on the latest round of the CashBack Youth Work Fund, grant criteria and details is available on the YouthLink Scotland website: www.youthlinkscotland.org/funding/cashback-for-communities/cashback-forcommunities-youth-work-fund/

by Dallas McMillan, Solicitors

We have been asked to explain the main differences between a Power of Attorney and a Will.

A Power of Attorney (“PoA”) is a formal document in which you give authority to someone such as a family member or close friend to make decisions for you (typically financial matters and ‘welfare’ matters such as medical treatment and long-term care during your lifetime), if you become incapable of looking after your own affairs.

A PoA only comes into effect if its own conditions are met (principally that a suitably-qualified doctor certifies that you are incapable of managing your own affairs). There are detailed regulations giving substantial protection to the granter of a PoA, overseen by the Office of the Public Guardian.

Granting PoA’s is increasingly common. Without one there will be difficulties for your family and friends in trying to assist you, should the need arise. Someone

would have to apply to court asking to be appointed your legal guardian, involving considerable delay and expense. Until the application was granted, limited assistance would be available from institutions such as banks, hospitals and care homes because you would be unable to give instructions, and no-one would have authority on your behalf.

Wills instead only operate on death, appoint Executors to carry out your wishes and set out how your Estate is to be distributed. They can also make specific bequests and appoint Guardians to look after young children. Failure to set up a Will can result in difficulties for your family and may result in more Inheritance Tax being paid than is necessary. In addition, the absence of a will can cause confusion, give rights to certain family members and frustrate your intentions regarding money and distribution of your estate.

Solicitors will recommend PoA’s and wills to almost all clients.

LITIGATION TEAM OF THE YEAR Law Awards of Scotland 2018

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Lochwinnoch Primary School Lochwinnoch Primary is ecstatic to announce that it has achieved a GREEN FLAG! We have been working hard towards achieving this special eco award and we cannot believe that we have finally done it. A massive thank you to everyone in our community who has contributed to our success, but an especially huge thank you to EADHA and Starling Learning who were invaluable to us during the process.

The Primary 6 and 7 teams from Lochwinnoch Primary did extremely well at the annual Renfrewshire Road Race competition.

We walked away with a great selection of medals and trophies including a 1st for Primary 7 girls and a 3rd for Primary 6 girls’ individual runners, as well as a 3rd for the Primary 7 boys team and a 1st for both the Primary 6 and 7 girls teams!

Well done everyone – an amazing achievement!

BBC LAB Live have been working with Primary 5 to create a short film with an Autumn theme. The children took on the roles of performers, interviewers, set designers, and script writers. They also got to make and decorate a variety of Halloween props and these instructions were also recorded. The children are really excited to see the finished result.

The Parent Council organised a very successful Halloween Disco. The kids loved dressing up and there were lots of brilliant costumes!

School Registration dates Renfrewshire Entry to primary schools in the Renfrewshire Council area occurs once a year, at the start of the new session in August.

Only children whose fifth birthday falls between March 1st of that year and the last day of February of the following year will be automatically admitted to school. Parents may make a request for early entry to school for a child whose fifth birthday falls after the appropriate latest date. Parents may also make a placing request for their child to attend a primary school other than their catchment school. This process is explained in the ‘Sending your child to school’ available in the Related Documents section.

Register your infant for school session 2019/2010 Children who reach 5 years of age between 1st March 2019 and 29th February 2020 inclusive should be registered for education in their catchment school as follows: ● Pupils whose surnames begin with the letters A - L should be registered on Wednesday 16th January 2019 ● Pupils whose surnames begin with the letters M - Z should be registered on Thursday 17th January 2019 Registration will take place between 1pm - 3pm on those dates.

Parents should produce their child’s birth certificate and two proofs of residence which must include: ● Council Tax notice for your property or proof that you have registered for Council Tax at that property, and ● a letter from your solicitor confirming that missives have been concluded or a rent book for rented property, tenancy agreement or mortgage/bank statement.

Original documents must be produced.

You must register your child in only one school - either the denominational or non-denominational school for your catchment area. If you want your child to go to a different school, you will have to make a placing request.

Your catchment school will give you a request form when you go to register.

Placing requests for all schools for session beginning August 2019 should be sent to us by 15th March 2019.

Primary 3 and 4 have been taking advantage of some free music sessions led by NYCOS (National Youth Choir of Scotland). They have played games, sung songs and learned lots about rhythm, beat and pitch.

Kilbarchan Community Nursery

Thanks to our “Come as you please day” last term we have managed to acquire a set of football goals for the school playground. Mr McAlpine has also marked out the white lines of the pitch and the children are really enjoying getting a chance to play on a proper pitch!

This month the children have been busy in the garden. We filled the pumpkins from Halloween with bird seed and left them out as a tasty treat for the birds and wildlife to enjoy. Children are keen to play ‘What’s the time Mr Wolf, to help them to develop their counting skills. They have also been learning to risk assess as they work safely with tools and wood.

Our Christmas Fair this year will be on Thursday 6th December. We have lots planned for this year’s fair, including lots of stallholders from out with school. A perfect excuse to come and do your Christmas shopping all under one roof!

We are now busy producing our own unique Christmas show. As well as creating characters and a story, the children are busily making their own props. The show will be performed on 13th December in the Primary school.

On 14th December we will welcome back Clydebuilt puppet theatre who will be tell the story of ‘Lost Bear’s Christmas’. This will also be Christmas jumper day when we will be raising money for ‘Save the Children’.

The nursery will close for the Christmas break on Friday 21st December at 2.30pm and re-open on Monday 7th January.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Houston Primary School

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Renfrewshire Road Race

EVERY

MONDAY

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers

On Friday 26th October forty representatives from Primary 6 & 7, participated in the annual Road Race. They have been training hard for this event and it certainly paid off. Kirk Gray of Primary 6 came third and Zara Redmond came first in their categories. The Primary 6 boys gained an overall second place for their team effort. Well done to all of the athletes who raced. A special thank you to our two lovely grans who accompanied us, and to the parents who came along to cheer us on.

McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am

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

Kilmacolm Playgroup

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am - 11.30am

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group

Howwood Parish Church, 10am - 12noon

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, 9.15am - 11.30am

EVERY TUESDAY

Kilbarchan Tots

Kilbarchan Scout Hall, 10am-12noon

The Big Sing

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

On Friday 9th November our junior choir and St. Fillan’s choir performed a variety of WW1 songs as part of The Big Sing, at Houston and Killellan Church. We thank Mrs Hey and Mrs Farquhar who have given up their free time to prepare the children for this special event. The pupils were just amazing.

Kilmacolm Playgroup

Book Week Scotland 19th to 25th November

£2 contribution. Tea, coffee & biscuits.

Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am - 11.30am

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

Primary 1: Bookbug bags were gifted to all Primary 1 students during Book Week Scotland, containing the three books shortlisted for the Bookbug Picture Book Prize.

Primary 2 & 3: Books, writing materials and counting games were gifted to all Primary 2 and 3 pupils in their Read, Write, Count bags, providing fun materials for parents to use with their children at home.

Unique school celebrates its first birthday Parents, pupils, teachers and support staff have been celebrating Riverbrae School’s first year. The school held a big birthday party to celebrate one year in the facility purpose built to transform the learning opportunities available to children and young people with additional support needs.

Riverbrae School is the first one of its kind ever built in Renfrewshire and was joint-funded by Renfrewshire Council (£10.1million) and the Scottish Futures Trust (£8.7million).

Houston Toddlers

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 9.30am - 11.30am

Howwood Playgroup

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am

EVERY

FRIDAY

Langbank Playgroup

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

Contact Jen Burrows 07947 983025.

Langbank Under 3’s

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

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.

During the celebration, eager pupils gave spectacular performances in front of proud parents and invited delegates before Education Provost Lorraine Cameron, Education Convener Councillor Jim Paterson Convener, Councillor Jim Paterson, unveiled the and Headteacher Catherine Gilius unveiling the school plaque. school plaque.

Councillor Paterson said: “Riverbrae is a fantastic school for children and young people of all ages. The school has been designed to help pupils transition between nursery, primary and secondary school all within the same building, helping those with complex additional support needs to get the best start in life and reach their full potential. The school is an inclusive and happy community where every achievement is celebrated, and experience is viewed as an opportunity for learning. We want our children and young people to have success for today and be prepared for tomorrow.”

Riverbrae School Headteacher, Catherine Gilius, said: “It’s been a busy first year for the school, with parasports events, art exhibitions, historical drama and even a muddy puddle walk. The school is designed in a very inclusive way, supporting our children and young people not only to move through the phases of their schooling in a familiar environment with familiar friends and staff, but also to learn the skills they need to be included in the wider world “We pride ourselves on our ability to bring out the best in all our pupils by providing a curriculum which is built around the learning needs of the individual and offer opportunities for success in all areas of learning and development.

That’s reflected in the school’s vision and values: leadership, equity, ambition, respect and nurture. Our pupils are important to us and their achievement, big or small, make our job worthwhile. We know we can’t achieve this on our own. We need the ongoing support of all parents, carers and partners to make sure Riverbrae remains the happiest and most stimulating school in Scotland.”

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Renfrewshire Speech Competition At the recent S3 Youth Speech Competition organised by Renfrew Speakers Club Team number 2 from St Andrew’s Academy were the winners of the Renfrewshire Heat of this Competition which includes schools from East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

They choose to speak on the Topic: Is use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) a cause for celebration or concern?

The Runners Up were Team number 1 from Linwood High School who spoke on the same topic.

Bridge of Weir Primary School We’ve been doing lots of fundraising in recent weeks, including the Christmas Fayre. Without your support it wouldn’t be possible - so a very big THANK YOU to everyone who has donated, volunteered, or attended our events. A reminder that school finishes on Friday 21st December and returns on Monday 7th January 2019. We hope you have a very happy and peaceful Christmas.

Songs of Remembrance by Ailsa McClymont P5a Sunday 11th of November marked 100 years since the end of World War 1, and to commemorate the anniversary, the senior choir performed some songs at a special service in Freeland Church. They sang a moving and thoughtful version of Child of Peace, and the uplifting song Highland Cathedral. Choir member, Jenny O’Gorman, said both the singing and the church service were great, and she really enjoyed them. People at the service said lots of nice things about the choir’s singing. The children were honoured to show respect and remember.

Primary 1 visits the Co-op by Rory Cox P5b All three Primary 1 classes went on a school trip to the Co-op. They walked there-and-back with their teachers.

While there, they had to find items that cost £1, and learned about different coins. Some pupils even got the chance to serve the customers. The staff were very kind, and gave them goodies to take home.

Purple for Pennies by Ella Smith P4a To support the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, we had a special nonuniform day.

Loads of people wore purple clothes, and the school also had lovely purple decorations.

Pupils, Freya, Niamh, Daisy and Kate-Lynn organised the event, and their families worked hard to make delicious treats for everyone. They all looked great in their unicorn horns, white and purple t-shirts, and purple tutus. It was so much fun, and they raised £654.86.

They both went forward to the Grand Final in the Normandy Hotel on Wednesday 28th November joining the Renfrewshire winners - St Andrew’s Academy Winners and Runner Ups Team 2: Left to right Chairperson Kyle of the East Renfrewshire Meechan, Main Speaker Blair White, holding Heat Mearns Castle High the engraved Winner’s Trophy and Ross School and Woodfarm McEwan Vote of Thanks.

High School along with the Inverclyde Heat Winners St Columba’s Academy’s Team number 1, shown in the photograph with Robert Lamb (Inverclyde Development Officer, Education) and the Runners Up were a team from St Stephen’s High School who spoke on the topic: Use of Social Media improve communication Inverclyde winners - St Columba’s Academy Team 1: skills? The third Topic which was chosen by some schools was: Should PE (Physical Education) and exercise be mandatory for all pupils at school?

Bill Leeming the Chief Judge said that the Competitions had shown that the standard once again has been high and the competition very tight.

Before he announced the winners, he explained a little about the judging criteria. First and foremost, this is a team competition. The Chairperson, Main Speaker and Giver of the Vote of Thanks all have to perform well both individually and together. For example, a team with a very strong main Speaker will be marked down, if the other team members don’t quite match the same standard.

The judges were looking for: ● A good introduction in which the subject was defined and the team’s opinion was explained. ● A centre section explaining key ideas supported evidence, statistics and enthusiasm. ● A conclusion reinforcing key elements of the argument and ending on a strong note. ● In addition, for each team member clarity, delivery and impact on the audience was assessed.

General Comments Despite prior advice to the contrary, many contributors spoke too quickly, often letting their voices tail off at the end of a sentence. In many cases, using variations in pitch, pause and pace would have enhanced the performance.

Some spoke too quietly and didn’t project their voices enough. Others were very limited in their gestures which were often hidden behind the lectern.

However, on the whole, facial gestures were very good and all of the young people performed admirably well. They are a credit to themselves, their schools and their families and they deserve a round of applause. All the competitors were presented with a book voucher as a reward for their efforts.

Renfrew Speakers Club gratefully acknowledge the sponsorship provided by the three Councils, Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and East Renfrewshire and also by DYW-West, Developing the Young Workforce School/Employer Partnerships without which we would be unable to continue running these Competitions.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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St Columba’s Remembers

Shakespeare Schools Festival

St Columba’s Pipe Band led three Remembrance Parades in Inverclyde on Sunday 11th November. To mark the centenary of the signing of the Armistice, pipers and drummers all over the world held a national tribute and played the retreat march, The Battle’s Oe’r, at 06.00hrs local time on Sunday 11th November.

St Columba’s was represented at Platform Theatre in Glasgow at the Shakespeare Schools Festival (SSF). SSF is the world’s largest youth drama festival. Each school that enters selects a Shakespeare play to rehearse and perform. St Columba’s chose ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and our Drama Club worked tirelessly to produce something of exceptional quality.

St Columba’s School Pipe Band invited local pipers and drummers to join them in this respectful mass tribute. The local community along with Mr Guy Clark, Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire and Cllr David Wilson, Depute Provost, came together at 5.45am at Kilmacolm War Memorial to collectively pay their respects in a fitting Remembrance ceremony.

The event was more than just participation in a drama festival; for St Columba’s it marked the beginning of considerable development in performing arts in the Senior School.

Our Pipe Band also led Kilmacolm Guiding and Scouts’ Remembrance Parade at 10am and Port Glasgow’s Remembrance Parade at 12.30pm, where Mrs Angus, accompanied by Head Boy, Mark Connolly, laid a wreath at Port Glasgow Cenotaph.

The performance was repeated in school on 15th and 16th November as part of the formal opening of the Rainbow Room Studio. Following a generous donation from the Stewart family, we have been able to renovate an old classroom and create an exciting performance space, equipped with a state of the art lighting desk and rig. The young people at St Columba’s have already begun to benefit from their time in the space. In the safety of a drama studio insecurities are banished, confidence is developed; pupils learn teamwork, empathy, compassion; they learn how to articulate thoughts and feelings and become experts at communication.

Time of Giving

Visits and Entrance Assessments

Mrs Angus said, “I thank everyone who gathered in the early hours for this poignant and moving St Columba’s Remembers ceremony. We are grateful to everyone for coming along to remember with the whole community on this very significant day.”

Junior 4 - 6 pupils participated in Social Bite’s ‘Wee Sleep Out’. Spending a night sleeping on the Junior School hall floor gave the children a small flavour of the discomfort felt on a daily basis by those who are homeless.

On the day of the ‘Wee Sleep Out’ Junior 5 held a bake sale and children also participated in a ‘wear what you want day’ raising a superb £2,514 for Social Bite. The whole experience has also prompted many of the children to develop their own initiatives in support of homelessness.

At this time of year the whole school community participates in the annual Spirit of Christmas gift collection by donating presents for children of all ages, from infant to 18 years. This year Saheliya, a specialist mental health and well-being support organisation, is the nominated recipient.

This annual initiative ensures that children and mothers within this group will receive a gift on Christmas day.

Christmas Fayre: Saturday 8th Dec, 2pm - 5pm - Community Event We are looking forward to welcoming members of the School community and local community to our Christmas Fayre at Senior School on Saturday 8th December from 2-5pm. Entry to this family event is free.

Make an appointment to visit and see our Early Years, Junior and Senior Schools in action. For those who wish to join us for their sixth year we also offer a wide range of Advanced Higher subjects and are happy to discuss your options with you.

Entrance assessments begin on 11th January: 11th & 14th January - Junior School 12th January - Senior School (Transitus - Senior VI) 15th & 16th January - Junior 1 17th & 18th January - Early Years Please contact Junior School on 01505 872768 or Senior School on 01505 872238 for details.

Our Pipe Band will be performing in Kilmacolm Village Centre on 12th December at 4.30pm to help spread some festive cheer – we hope to see you there. From all at St Columba’s School we wish you a wonderful Christmas and New Year. www.st-columbas.org

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Houston Toddler Group We have been having lots of fun recently including a fun visit from Jo at Musicland. All the children enjoyed singing and dancing to nursery rhymes and songs led

by Jo. We had lots of fun with Halloween crafts and snacks.

The children enjoyed showing off their costumes.

Kilmacolm Primary School Clydemuirshiel rangers have been visiting Kilmacolm Primary School and bringing our Outdoor Learning to life! Primary 2 had a fabulous time exploring the forest in search of mini beasts whilst Primary 3 created hedgehog houses just in time for hibernation.

We are now getting ready for Christmas and we are very much looking forward to our Christmas party on 22nd December and hopefully Santa will be able to drop by for a visit.

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 Carrick centre). We look forward to meeting you all!

The KPS cooking classroom has been busy making soup as part of the Grow and Cook project. Primary 7 pupils selected some leeks from the school garden and turned them into tasty potato and leek soup. The soup was shared with our friends at The Haven who helped set up our KPS garden.

Val Boa the curator of the Watt Museum visited the school to launch the KPS virtual Watt Walk. This year during our daily MUGA mile, we will be walking a virtual tour of James Watt’s life. Along the way we will be learning about the different inventions that Watt helped create and learning more about this local hero.

Duchal Nursery School With some “ghoulishly delightful” outfits from the children, we had lots of “spook-tacular” fun, mess and laughter at our Halloween party. Everyone really got into the “spirit” of the occasion, there were some “fang-tastic” jokes, “hairraising” tales and “boo-tiful” tunes - a truly magical time thank you to everyone who came. If you missed out but would like to see what Duchal can offer your child for nursery care please get in touch.

Langbank Playgroup What an amazing place to be!

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

Over the last month, the children have had the opportunity to experience a Bookbug session from the “Skoobmobile” team, where they learned new songs and listened to a story. We have also had our first visit from Paddy from Morton football, where the children had the opportunity to develop their co-ordination and listening skills.

We also held a very successful and well attended family Halloween Disco, where there was dancing, singing and “Mummy” wrapping too!

We are now preparing for our Christmas visit from Artie’s Tartan Tales, where the children will be participating in some new songs and stories.

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

Playgroup is held on a Friday morning (term time) in Langbank Village Hall and we currently have spaces for children aged 2.5yrs to 5yrs. If you would like to join us on a Friday morning or for more information, please contact Jen Burrows on 07947983025

At Duchal Nursery the children are introduced to different cultures and celebrations. Recently we have been learning about Diwali and all the celebrations involved. The children have made clay tea lights and decorated the nursery with our own lights.

St Benedict’s Pupil wins Poetry Award

As the end of term gets closer we start to get in the mood for the Festive season and can’t wait for our annual trip to the Tron Theatre in Glasgow for much Christmas cheer. There are lots of Christmas decorations busily being made and preparations are well under way for our annual Nativity and Christmas party.

A St Benedict’s pupil has been chosen as one of the commended Foyle Young Poets of the Year 2018. Neave Scott was selected from nearly 6,000 entrants and 11,000 poems this year from across the world, an amazing and impressive accomplishment.

There are a few limited spaces in the nursery at present, or if you are looking for a place for 2019 onwards please do get in touch. We are happy for visits to see our facilities and meet the teachers at any time, please contact us on: 01505 874358 to arrange a convenient time. Also visit our website at: www.duchal.com or find us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from all at Duchal Nursery.

The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award is for poets aged 11-17. Since it began 20 years ago the Award has kick-started the career of some of today’s most exciting new voices.

Congratulations to the English Department at St Benedict’s High school who have helped inspire and develop Neave’s talent, and huge congratulations to Neave Scott herself for such a fantastic achievement. The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award 2019 launches again in March 2019.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Gryffe High School Kilmacolm Playgroup and MADD Talent Showcased at Gryffe On Wednesday 7th November, Gryffe hosted the annual MADD Show (Music, Art, Drama and Dance). The recurring Toddlers theme of this year’s MADD Show was of Chinese teacher, philosopher and politician - Confucius. The reason for

Playgroup has been full of fun this month with the children enjoying dressing up and apple bobbing at our Halloween party. They have also been taking part in gymnastics lessons and learning stills such as balancing and forward rolls.

We are having a stall at the December Kilmacolm farmers market (1st December). We will be selling a variety of Christmas goodies such as sweets, hot chocolate reindeer and a lucky dip.

Please come along and support us, even if it’s just to say hello. Feel free to come and have a chat if you want to find out more about our group and you can even pick up a voucher for a free toddler session.

this was to pay homage to Gryffe High School launching the world’s first Confucius Specialist Sports Hub in a high school. It was an incredible event that enabled pupils to show off their excellent art work. S2 and S3 pupils’ masks and hats were displayed by models from the younger school, while the spectacular design projects, made by the S6 Advanced Higher Art students, were worn by a great team of senior models from S4, S5 and S6. The drama department also debuted their own performance of Chinese Cinderella, which gave a twist to the usual fairy-tale, allowing them to explore and teach about Confucius values. In addition to this, there were amazing singing and dancing performances, as well as, concluding with a piece from a collection of Music pupils.

All in all, 2018’s MADD Show was a superb showcase of the talent and creativity abundant within Gryffe High School.

Article by Aaron Mills S5

Gryffe Confucius Classroom is a World First This session we have begun our partnership with Scottish Schools Football Association and Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools as the world’s first and only Confucius Specialist Hub for sports.

As a specialist hub, we will work with SSFA and CISS in promoting Chinese language and culture both in school and with other schools and community groups in conjunction with the work of the SSFA. In 2019-2020 a specialist Hanban teacher will join the school to support our programme and work with pupils in different curricular areas and in extended curricular work to promote Chinese language and culture.

The official launch of our specialist hub took place on Wednesday 7th November. Invited guests included representatives from Gryffe High School, SSFA, CISS, Steven Thompson as a former pupil and Scottish Internationalist and Steven Quinn, Acting Director of Children’s Services at Renfrewshire Council.

Mr G. O’Hare Supporting Depute Head and FH Health and Wellbeing

Finally we are pleased to announce that we have been selected as one of the Co-op local charities, this means that we can receive 1% of all money spent on Co-op products. If you would like to support us you will need a Co-op card, then you can go onto the website and register us as your chosen charity. This will be a much needed boost in funds and we really appreciate any support we can get.

St. Fillan’s Primary School Haunted Halloween!

Halloween celebrations were ‘Spooktacular!’ in St. Fillan’s Primary and it was great to see so many witches, wizards, zombies and ghouls get dressed up to come along to our Annual Halloween Disco! We are ever grateful to our wonderful Parent Council members who organise this fundraising event and to the Harvey family who entertained us with costumes, dancing and music from ‘The Greatest Showman!’

Eco Warriors!

Hopefully, we are well on our way to achieving our third green flag and maintaining our green flag status. The Eco Committee focussed on the theme of ‘Litter’ as part of their Committee focus week and they organised a whole school litter pick. Each class were given a specific day to go out into the playground and collect as much litter as they could. Each litter bag was weighed before the items were recycled and the winning class were treated to an extra playtime which they thoroughly enjoyed. Who knew collecting rubbish could be so rewarding?!

The Eco Committee also focussed on the promotion of healthy lifestyles during their focus week and they were keen to encourage children and adults to walk to school, scooter /ride a bike or engage in ‘Park and Stride.’

During Assembly, children also discussed the health benefits of walking to school, the positive effects on the environment and the sustainability of

the planet. Each class recorded their participation and progress in terms of number of steps and they recorded their information on a wall chart using stickers. Primary 6 won the ‘Golden Trainer Award’ as they were the class who worked together to uphold our school value of ‘Teamwork’ by encouraging one another throughout the week to increase their step count.

Super Squash!

The children in Primaries 5 and 6 have enjoyed a block of squash taster sessions in association with Strathgryffe Tennis Club. Alan, the coach has been putting the children through their paces and has provided opportunities for the children to develop their core skills and confidence by rotating around a variety of activity stations. Ten of the children have been invited to take part in a local squash tournament along with other local schools and they are looking forward to putting their skills into practice on a proper squash court. We wish they all the very best in the tournament!

We Will Remember…

Some of our Primary 5 children were delighted to join forces with Houston Primary School and participate in the ‘Houston Big Remembrance Sing’ which took place in Houston and Killellan Church. It was wonderful to take part and sing a variety of wartime favourites whilst remembering those who gave their lives in sacrifice.

Two of our Primary 7 children were honoured to be invited along to the ‘Freeland’ Church in Bridge of Weir to attend their Remembrance Sunday Service. The girls were very proud to receive the flags of the British Legion as a powerful symbol which helped us to focus on the young people who lost their lives in the First World War.

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Kilbarchan Smile Gateway Garden The Kilbarchan Smile volunteers have been busy in the Gateway Community Garden and around the village this season. Children from Kilbarchan Community Nursery visited the Garden to harvest potatoes and to plant Spring flowering bulbs. The Girl Guides braved the rain and the dark to do their own ‘tattie picking’ and to plant out the wild flowers they had grown from seed and the MP, Mhairi Black, came to the Cross to plant a Hazel sapling donated through a partnership between the Woodland Trust, Sainsbury’s and ITV, as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy. One of the key aims of the Woodland Trust is to plant native trees with the aim of creating resilient landscapes for people and wildlife.

Due to the unpredictability of the weather over the next few months, the regular Gateway Garden Open Days, usually the 2nd Sunday of each month and every second Wednesday, have to be suspended. However, anyone who wants to visit is welcome to call, between 9am and 4pm, 07952 169341 for information or 07751 461859 for access.

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Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Kilmacolm Horticultural Society invite you to a special pre-Christmas event as part of our 140th anniversary year. FLOWER ARRANGING FOR CHRISTMAS will be presented by Ms Jane Gordon, our area demonstrator for the Scottish Association of Flower Arranging. To be held in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm, on Wednesday 5th December at 7.30pm.

In addition to the floral art arrangements, which will be auctioned at the end of the evening, we are holding a Christmas Tombola and Stalls plus a Raffle. Refreshments at the buffet table, with mulled wine or mulled apple.

Everyone welcome, members - free, non-members £2. If you would like to join the Society for an annual subscription of just £5, please come along and sign in at the door. We offer a range of activities, including winter lectures, annual Flower Show, Spring bulb competition, Summer Outing, and a Plant Sale at the annual Coffee Morning. Further details from Jill Russell on 01505 872393. or see our website: www.kilmacolmhorticulturl. com.

BoWeir Horticultural Society Members welcomed Lesley Hinde, teacher, from Linwood High School and past and present pupils: Dean, Dylan, Hayleigh and Kerry. They told us the untimely death of former pupil, Craig Hepburn, and the desire for something good to come out of tragedy, was the catalyst for creating the Craig Hepburn Memorial Garden. A grassy slope was chosen and pupils set-to creating pathways, laying chipped wood, building raised borders and barrelling tonnes of topsoil up to the garden.

Renfrewshire RSPB Local Group - Friday 7th December - McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew PA48LX. 7.30pm.

Yvonne Boles will deliver an illustrated talk entitled ‘Black Grouse‘ All welcome.

Thousands of hours have gone into this project with contributions from pupils and support from the community and local businesses. An unattractive area has become a colourful outlook for everyone, with an orchard and borders growing flowers, fruits and vegetables – chillies a speciality. There is now a large greenhouse/outdoor classroom, gazebo and BBQ where pupils spend time studying or relaxing. It is also a welcoming place for wildlife and to widen habitat appeal, bat boxes, bug hotels, ponds and bird baths have been added. For many pupils this is their first experience of working with nature and wildlife. Pupils discuss project management and fund-raising; agree planting schemes and propagation, then germinate, tend and grow crops organically. In addition to the pleasures of growingyour-own, pupils are learning from hands-on experience about teamwork, communication and problem solving.

Through the RHS Campaign for School Gardening pupils’ knowledge of horticultural matters has blossomed. Their achievements have been rewarded with appearances at Gardening Scotland; winning a Gold for a “pop-up” Garden; achieving Level 5 in the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and a listing in Scotland’s Gardens Scheme yellow book, a “first” appearance for any school. Included in the RHS Rocket Science experiment, they tested seeds which had been into space to discover if this would affect germination (it didn’t). Dean was shortlisted for Young Gardener of the Year and attended the Awards Ceremony at RHS Wisley and was immediately offered an apprenticeship!

The Society’s AGM will be held on Thursday 13th December at 8pm in The Bridge. The future of the Society will be discussed and members are requested to attend.

Deciduous trees are now dormant and the next few months are ideal for tree planting, particularly bare root trees which can be found in nurseries.

Watering newly planted trees through the Spring and Summer is essential for good establishment.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Lochwinnoch Community Garden Lochwinnoch sustainable Garden Group received their ‘Outstanding‘ award form Keep Scotland Beautiful!

Interested in Photography?

Our local camera clubs continually supply us with stunning shots which we use throughout the magazine, sometimes as banners or even front pages. If you’ve been inspired, why not join them and maybe see some of your photographs in print!

Kilmacolm Camera Club, David Addison - ‘Vase - Hillhouse’

Here are some of our favourites this month.

Paisley Colour Photographic Club : Thursday evenings The McMaster Centre, Renfrew. www.paisleycolour.co.uk

Langbank Camera Club : Second and fourth Mondays of the month.

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

Gryffe Camera Club : Wednesday nights The Carrick Centre, Houston between 7.30pm and 10pm.

Kilmacolm Camera Club : Tuesday evening 7.30pm (October to March) The Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01. For more information contact: Billy Blair, Tel: 873383; Janice Stevenson, Tel 873595. Website: clikpic.com/kilcamclub/

Paisley Colour Photographic Club, Mike Cruise - ‘Kingfisher with Minnows’

Paisley Colour Photographic Club, Fiona McFetridge - ‘Spider’

Diaporama Meeting : Second Monday in the month 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre, Houston. For further information contact Hugh Kerr at 01505 612687 or hughkerr14@gmail.com

Kilmacolm Camera Club, Jane Robertson - ‘Into the Light’

Kilmacolm Camera Club, David Walker ‘George Square Dancer’

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Welcome to Clyde Mursheil Regional Park Classic Car Show! This year’s show at the end of October raised an amazing £1,600 for St Vincent’s Hospice.

Huge congratulations to show organiser and Clyde Muirshiel Visitor Centre Assistant Jane, pictured handing over the cheque to Laura McDade of the St Vincent’s Fundraising team.

Stargazing Evenings: The next date is Monday 17th December, book your place online today for just £5 and look forward to an evening of galactic exploration.

2019 Events Save the Date: For those who like to be super prepared pop our 2019 events in your diary now… Pedal the Park is on Sunday 5th May (British Cycling online entry will be opening soon!), the second Clyde Muirshiel Walking Festival will take place on Saturday 25th until Monday 27th May, the 10km Bog Stomp on Sunday 1st Sept and Classic Car Show on Sunday 20th October.

Festive Opening Hours: Clyde Muirshiel’s Castle Semple Visitor Centre will be open daily 10am – 4pm, although closing early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve at 2pm. It will reopen on Boxing Day and 2nd January at 12noon.

Trails and tracks will remain open daily for festive walks as will the toilets at Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Clyde Muirshiel Conservation Volunteers: The Park’s conservation volunteers are gearing up for a winter season of hard grafting and Christmas Decoration making! Check online for starts dates for the 2019 programmes of activity.

Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: Look on our facebook group for details of weekend runs. 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-nTrack Project Officer Hayley Douglas. TnT is funded

by Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Renfrewshire and Inverclyde LEADER and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

It has been a very busy time for the gulls and for us in the Tag-n-Track Team. We have finished delivering our school workshops this year across Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and North Ayrshire. We have delivered 228 workshops involving 1,659 pupils. On top of this we have been out giving talks far and wide from Kilbarchan to Dumfries. We are now in the last month of our project with the funding due to end in the new year so it’s write up, write up and maybe a wee report or two.

The change in weather has seen almost all our gulls head to sunnier climes. Two are in Spain and another four are in Portugal including Roland, who came back online and is in his wintering ground in Aveiro in Portugal. We have lost contact with some of our gulls due to roaming so we may have some further afield but won’t find out until next year when they return.

Two of our gulls are still in the UK and Ireland. Gary is still hanging out in Stoke and Ollie near Cork. We have also had a wee bit of good news regarding Gary’s chick 12W:C who we colour ringed on Greenock Police Station roof. He has been spotted in Knightswood Park in Glasgow.

Finally we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at Clyde Mursheil when the time comes.

Gull adoptions: Looking for that something different for Christmas 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.

January Service Restrictions: There will be some dates in January where the toilets will be closed at Muirshiel Country Park. Check online before you visit for a exact details.

Make a Difference: In a group looking to help make a difference? Or have a few colleagues looking for a team building challenge? Muirshiel Country Park needs you! Please email rangers.castlesemple@ clydemuirshiel.co.uk for details on the woodland management opportunities available.

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.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Brighter Bridge Of Weir SANTA’S NOT-SO-LITTLE HELPERS Brighter Bridge of Weir’s fund-raising efforts continue and the latest event is a Christmas PopUp Shop at Livery Walk (adjacent to the Co-op) on Saturday 1st December between 10am and 1pm. There will be crafts and cakes, homemade sweets and jams, all made by the Group’s own volunteers in Bridge of Weir.

Among the crafts will be a number of our Rustic Reindeer, which flew off the shelves last year. Our picture shows three of the Group posing as Santa’s Quite Big Helpers while creating the reindeer in their workshop in Lapland (or maybe not).

We mentioned the Bridge of Weir Co-op above; we were recently told that Brighter Bridge of Weir has been selected as one of the 3 community groups nominated to receive funding from the Co-op. Co-op members who buy Co-op products will have a percentage of their spending donated. Details available in store or online at www.coop.co.uk/membership/local-causes.

After the PopUp Shop, the next step for Brighter Bridge of Weir will be installing the Christmas lights in and around the Woodland Garden.

Goodness, this Group doesn’t half put in the hours! A very Merry Christmas from all of us to all of you.

Enjoy your walk Scotland’s outdoors is a great place for dogs and their owners. But please remember you and your dog share the outdoors with others. You have the right to be on most land for recreation providing you act responsibly (as set out in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code).

Dogs that aren’t kept under proper control are a real concern for land managers and visitors to the countryside. Dogs can worry and injure farm animals, disturb wildlife and can scare other people. Dog waste also spreads diseases, especially if the dogs haven’t been regularly wormed.

Find out more about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at www. outdooraccess-scotland.scot/

Come and visit Finlaystone Country Estate, enjoy our woodland walks, play areas and gardens. Join our Rangers for fun events at weekends.

Gardens: December is a busy time in the garden with a real mix of jobs being done. Tidying up at the end of the season is still in full swing while preparing for the season to come is also getting underway. One of the most important jobs at this time of year is clearing and tidying the vegetable garden so that it is ready for planting and seed sowing in the spring. Another important job that always takes longer than expected is tidying up the many herbaceous borders in the garden.

While most plants flower in the warmer months there are a few that do so over the winter months and a walk through our winter border in the walled garden will reveal a selection of bulbs, shrubs and trees that save their flowers until this time of year.

We are always happy to welcome volunteers into the garden where the gardener will be able to find work for those interested in getting their hands dirty.

Xmas tree sales throughout December: Cut your own tree and make it a family day out. For school visits to buy a tree please contact the visitor centre. Large trees available on request (Local Delivery Available).

Santa’s Grotto 10.30am – 4pm: ALL WEEKENDS ARE FULLY BOOKED – LIMITED SPACES AVAILIABLE 24th DEC ONLY Santa’s coming to Finlaystone; follow the magical Santa trail to find Santa’s grotto. £17.50 per child (includes 1 accompanying adult free). Prebooking essential call early to avoid disappointment.

From Flanders Fields We get all sorts of interesting visitors at The Advertizer, but November brought something very unusual. A local businessman, who wishes to remain anonymous, called in with a bag of poppy seeds collected from near the Essex Farm Cemetery in Ypres, Belgium.

He had been on a visit to the town (officially named Ieper in Flemish) and told us: “I was sitting on the wall of the cemetery and became aware of the poppies on the opposite side of the road. It came to me that Lt Col John McCrae must have been looking at poppies at the very same location when the words of his famous poem, ‘In Flanders Fields’, came to him.”

Our visitor asked if we knew anyone who would be able to plant the seeds in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the end of the Great War. We approached one of our local gardening groups who were delighted to receive the seeds. They are in the process of planning a memorial garden and will use the seeds as part of the planting. We hope to bring you more on this story in 2019.

Winter Memberships are available for purchase at the Visitor Centre.

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The Semples of Beltrees, 4 Francis Semple, 4th Laird of Beltrees Following the family tradition, Francis, too, was a poet of considerable merit.

He married Jeane Campbell (his first cousin) in the Parish of Lochgoilhead on 3rd April, 1655, and had two known sons, Robert in 1656 and James in 1657, both christened in Kilbarchan Parish.

Francis was involved with the Engagers, who prioritised loyalty to Charles I above their Presbyterian convictions. The Engager army had invaded England in 1648, where it was decisively defeated by Oliver Cromwell’s army at the Battle of Preston. Whether Francis was actively involved in the battle is unknown. The Church of Scotland strongly disapproved of the Engagers’ activities and in 1649, in retribution, Francis was seated in front of the pulpit in Kilbarchan Parish Church, in full view of the congregation and had to confess and give evidence of his repentance 1649. Two years later he again had to appear before the congregation to confess the sin of visiting his relative ‘old Lady Semple’ who had been excommunicated from the Church of Scotland for her papal sympathies.

Francis had inherited his father’s debts, but continued to move in the upper echelons of society. He appears to have been over-generous to his friends, standing surety on numerous occasions. He was also a spendthrift, selling off his assets in an attempt to maintain his lifestyle.

More importantly, Francis Semple is remembered for his excellence as a poet. His lyrics for songs include the original version of Auld Langsyne, adapted over a century later by Robert Burns, and Maggie Lauder which makes mention of the Kilbarchan piper Habbie Simson, “There’s nane in Scotland plays sae weel, Sin’ we lost Habbie Simson.”

The Advertizer

Architecture – Kilmacolm For centuries an old out-of-the-way Scottish clachan of one-storey thatched cottages, Kilmacolm was transformed by the coming of the railway from Glasgow in 1869.

Suddenly the well-to-do could live in the country while still working in the city. Now Glasgow businessmen engaged commerce and the professions built large stone villas, first along the old roads to Bridge of Weir, Port Glasgow and Lochwinnoch, but soon on new laid out streets as the population increased. By the beginning of the twentieth century, Kilmacolm had changed completely.

At the village cross, new tenements housed the tradesmen and workers needed by the growing community, while at street level, shops provided necessary goods and services. Constructed in sandstone, these tenement ranges, never-the-less, gave scale and a sense of enclosure to the centre of the village. The high, two-storey village school and the towers of two churches, which rose sentinel-like north and south, intensified this spatial containment. Erected 1829-31, on the site of the original medieval chapel, the harled and slated Old Kirk had been enlarged in 1901-03. Its rural calm contrasted with the fine stonework and splendid Gothic detail of the more recent St. Columba Church of 1902-03.

But what gave the village its distinctive quality were its private houses often set in lavishly planted gardens. These large villas spread uphill to the east of the village, along new roads laid out between Bridge of Weir Road and the railway and over flat ground north of Lochwinnoch Road.

Francis’s poems give us an insight into his character and lifestyle. He was a great admirer of his acquaintance, the Duke of Albany (later James II). His poems honouring the Duke of Albany were written in a serious, respectful tone. In contrast his impromptu epitaphs show his cutting wit. On the death of Lady Schaw of Greenock, he wrote, “Heir lyis interrit, forbye a witch, Ane oppressor baith of puir and rich: How scho fends, and how scho fares, Naebodie kens, and as few cares.”

Architects from Glasgow and Greenock, contributed to what became a remarkable enclave of high quality late Victorian and Edwardian domestic design. Among those commissioned were James Salmon, William Leiper (also responsible for the design of St. Columba Church), Honeyman & Keppie, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. In nearby Quarrier’s Village, Robert Bryden designed a range of “family” villas, community buildings, and the village’s own Mount Zion Church.

A number of his poems are humorous personal narratives, written in the rich Scots vernacular. These poems show Francis as a bit of a likeable rogue, not afraid to make public his brushes with the law, and his financial difficulties. The theme in his poem Banishment of Poverty, as the name suggests, is his perpetual pecuniary struggle. Among his many trials and tribulations Francis again mentions his local village. He writes that he first met Poverty in Kilbarchan, “where Habbie’s drones blew many a blast’ and says of his enemy, Poverty, “For there he gripped me full and fast, When first I fell in cautionrie.”

The most ubiquitous contribution to Kilmacolm’s domestic architecture was made by a local architect, James Austen Laird, who from the 1890’s for almost half a century was responsible for the design of scores of Kilmacolm houses.

Francis died in 1682 in relative poverty, having relinquished his estate and moved to Burnfoot, a small house in Lochwinnoch Parish. Sadly, despite his undoubted merit as a Scottish poet, he unfortunately left a very large legacy of financial debt to his successors. © 2018, Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Forum Renfrewshire Local History Forum will hold our next lecture in Room 116, in the Coats Building, University of the West of Scotland (entrance in Storie Street, Paisley) at 7.30 pm on Thursday, 13th December 2018. Our speaker is archaeologist, Andrew Nicholson, Archaeologist, Dumfries and Galloway Council. His lecture topic is Excavating the Galloway Hoard.

Two quite different approaches to domestic design are discernible in the work of these architects. On the one hand, a recognisable Scottish idiom is apparent in houses designed by Leiper, Mackintosh, Bryden and to a certain extent those

by Salmon and Laird – harled walls, slated roofs, skews, vestiges of Baronial forms. More prevalent, on the other hand, is an indebtedness to the English Arts and Crafts movement, especially in some of the houses of Salmon and most of those designed by Laird – red tile roofs, half-timbering, open eaves, bargeboarding, etc. Whether such preferences were arbitrary or motivated by cultural affinity is unclear. But whatever the design approach no less an element in Kilmacolm’s leafy genius loci are its well stocked and cared for gardens.

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Supreme Sacrifice Bridge of Weir and the Great War 100 years ago - the aftermath Private William Cairns, 5th King’s Own Scottish Borderers Private William McClure, Inniskilling Fusiliers

7th

Royal

The war was over, but not yet done with Bridge of Weir. Huge armies take time to be demobilised, and some of the British Expeditionary Force was required to become part of the Army of Occupation. The 34th Division, including the 5th K.O.S.B., was deployed to occupy Cologne in January 1919. Serving with them was William Cairns, a pugnacious but enthusiastic soldier who had already been discharged twice from the Army Service Corps having served detention terms for fighting or, on one occasion, striking a superior officer. A tough nut, but he kept signing up for more. In his third term, he was transferred to the K.O.S.B. But by late 1919 he was in Wimereux Hospital, Pas de Calais, perhaps on the way home to a local hospital. He never made it home. He died of septicaemia on 11th August 1919. His link with Bridge of Weir was through his wife Elizabeth Ward, Ladeside, who he had married in March 1918.

Kilbarchan Church Organ for Germany The organ from the former Kilbarchan West Church has been gifted to the Marienkirche in Prenzlau, north-east of Berlin. The church was badly damaged during the war and the interior is currently being reconstructed. A team from Germany arrived on 12th November to dismantle the 114 years old organ.

After the war, communities had to cope with their grief, many choosing a public memorial as a lasting tribute to the fallen. Churches, business premises, sports clubs, schools and universities honoured their dead by publicly recording their names. Bereaved families received a commemorative scroll and a bronze plaque, soon to be nick-named the “Dead Man’s Penny”.

Some families marked their loss by endowing personalised memorials, like the stained-glass windows in St. Fillan’s Church for John Begley and the Higgins brothers. Others, especially perhaps the survivors, simply tried hard to forget.

The Bridge of Weir village memorial was dedicated on 26th June 1921 after a public subscription. The designer was Andrew Balfour, the architect who had lost his son at the Somme in 1916. Names to appear on the memorial were put on public display at three locations in the village, and relatives could suggest corrections or omissions.

But the process was not exhaustive, and many omissions were not picked up. One such was Private William McClure, 7th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, 16th (Irish) Division, who had volunteered in August 1915. William joined his battalion in the Loos sector of the front line in February 1916.

In September it was sent to the Somme. William survived that and by November 1916 it was holding trenches to the south of Ypres where William still lies, in the Kemmel Chateau Military Cemetery. William was one of four boys born in Greenock who lost both parents at a young age and were brought up by grandparents initially in Rankine’s Land, Bridge of Weir.

William, a quarryman, married Annie Clewes in 1904 and they were living in Cooperative Terrace the following year. His credentials for being on the memorial are undeniable, but no-one could have spoken up for him in 1921, so he went unrecorded. But due to family representations, Renfrewshire Council added his name in October 2014. As the memorial has it “Let those who come after see to it that their name be not forgotten”. William’s family saw to it. Memories matter.

Read more about both William’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

Johnstone History Society The December meeting of the Society will be on the 11th of the month and as usual it will be in the Masonic Hall in Collier Street at 7.30pm. The speaker will be Linda Arthur and her subject will be “Wally Closes” which I am sure we will all remember. As this is our last meeting of 2018 we hope for a good attendance of members and any visitors will be made most welcome .

The Museum will continue to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm until Saturday 22nd December and will reopen on Friday 4th January 2019. We have many books publications and maps for sale and these can also be purchased online at johnstonehistory.org and paid for through PayPal. May we as a Society take this chance to wish all our members and friends a very Happy Christmas and good wishes for 2019.

Looking for someone local?

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The Advertizer

Newspapers for Hedgehogs Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue are running short of newspapers. Hedgehogs especially are really messy, and some of the bigger birds in care need lots of newspapers too. If you can drop any off at the centre they’d be really grateful, or perhaps you could start collecting some at work or from friends.

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Trust Gateside, Beith, Ayrshire KA15 1HT

MISSING PETS Help Find Kara Kara is an 8 year old tortie and has been missing since October 2017 from the Crosslee area of Houston but her owners will never give up hope of finding her.

She is extremely friendly and is chipped. She has a collar on with a tag saying she chipped and her phone number.

If you see her please contact Karen (07469 931537) or Duncan (07496 019945).

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

Piekna

Piekna is a beautiful lady who is a typical tortie which means she’s independent and enjoys her own company. She’s looking for an understanding owner who will give her time and space to settle in. She is looking for a home with no children and no other pets as we’ve discovered at the centre that she really doesn’t like other cats. She’s used to going outside so she needs direct access to a garden, not near a busy road.

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

Pet Fostering Service Scotland

Peter - 2-3 y/o male Crossbreed Peter arrived in our care after he was found as a stray and is now looking for his forever home.

Pet Fostering Service Scotland provides a short term emergency care service for pet owners who are temporarily unable to care for their pets.

We’re always seeking more foster homes throughout Scotland. If you’re interested in fostering dogs, cats or small pets, on a short term basis, please drop us an e-mail at volunteering@pfss.org.uk Visit our website for more info at www.pfss.org.uk or find us on Facebook

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

Local Animal Charities

The Underheugh Ark www.underheugharkrescue.co.uk

Scottish SPCA 0141 882 1688 | www.scottishspca.org

Give a Dog a Bone www.giveadogabone.net

Dogs Trust Glasgow 0141 773 5130 | www.dogstrust.org.uk

Any Dog’il Do www.anydogildorescue.org

Cats Protection 0141 779 3341 | www.cats.org.uk

Animal Support & Rescue www.facebook.com/ASARCharity

Johnstone Cat Rescue 01505 337321 Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 01505 502415 | www.hessilhead.org.uk

Piekna - 3 y/o female domestic short-hair

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.

Peter is a shy little guy who doesn’t appear to have had much handling. He has started to warm to us here at the centre, though he will need an experienced owner who will be patient with him and help him to build up his confidence.

Peter Peter loves his food and this will definitely be the way to this little mans heart! He will need a large, secure area in which he can run around and play as he loves to explore.

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

Duddy

Duddy & Kizzy - 8+ y/o male & female Shih Tzu Kizzy can be worried in new situations but takes huge comfort from her brother so we are looking to find them a home together. They have been through so much from living on a hill side in Portugal to travelling to the UK.

Duddy would fit well into most households but will have specific rehoming needs to ensure his best friend feels safe and secure too.

They would be best suited to a home with people over the age of 12 years old that can give them some space. They love cuddling in and snoozing on the Kizzy couch next to you once they have built a bond with you. They are looking for an owner who has owned rescue dogs before.

Duddy and Kizzy can be left for a few hours without any problems as they are housetrained. They do get on well with other dogs but must stay together. They cannot live with cats. Having a secure garden is a must. Due to their age we would prefer a home with no stairs.

Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, 315 Hamilton Road, Uddingston, Glasgow, G71 7SL. Open: 12noon - 4pm (inc weekends); 12noon- 7.30pm on Tuesdays; closed: Wednesdays

Deadlinedate dateforfor our October 14th 12th September - you don’t want totomiss Deadline our January 2019issue issue--Friday Wednesday December - you don’t want missit!! it!!

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Caring for an Ageing Dog

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As our canine friends get older their needs can change as they become less active and can develop age related conditions such as arthritis. It is important to consider these changing needs as your dog ages to ensure you provide everything they need to keep them healthy and happy.

Points to consider include: • Older dogs need more rest. Provide somewhere quiet where they won’t be disturbed in a soft, cosy bed away from draughts.

• Make sure everything your dog needs is easily accessible. Smooth, slippery floors can be difficult to walk on. Putting a rug or carpet down can help them grip.

• Be aware that your dog may need to go to the toilet more often, and may need out during the night.

• Dietary requirements change with age.

Choose a food specifically designed for senior pets.

• Senior dogs still need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Walking them little and often will help keep their weight down.

Toys and puzzle feeders can keep them entertained.

• Arthritis is common in dogs.

There are supplements and medications that can help keep them comfortable.

• Senior dogs may need their nails trimming more often.

Blankets wanted The Scottish SPCA is appealing to animal lovers in Glasgow to donate blankets for animals in their Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.

They ask that people do not donate old duvets or pillows as the animals can easily tear these apart.

Blankets can be handed anytime between 10am and 4pm Wednesday to Monday into the centre which is located at 125 Kinnell Avenue, Cardonald, Glasgow G52 3RY.

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!

• Gentle grooming can help you spend quality time with your dog which also gives you the chance to check for lumps and bumps, aches and pains.

• Older dogs may have poor hearing and/or sight, so ask the family to avoid sudden loud noises so that they don’t get startled.

• Monitor your dogs’ weight, food and water intake, toileting habits and any changes in temperament. Contact your vet for a health check if any changes are noted.

With a little bit of extra care and attention your elderly dog can enjoy a long and comfortable retirement!

By PetVets

Scottish SPCA urges public to be mindful of hedgehogs this winter We are urging the public to be aware of hedgehogs as winter approaches.

We are currently caring for more than 150 hedgehogs with numbers anticipated to increase throughout winter.

Centre Manager Colin Seddon said, “Hedgehogs should be hibernating by now but there will be some out there who won’t survive without help.

“Most of the hedgehogs in our care haven’t stored up the necessary body fat to go into hibernation or are from late litters.

“Hedgehogs will be out foraging for food such as earthworms, beetles, slugs, snails, insects, fruit and carrion but they’ll be finding it very difficult at this time of year.

“We are particularly concerned for hedgehogs seen outside during the day and urge anyone who finds one to call us.

“Anyone trying to contain a hedgehog should pick it up using gardening gloves or a thick towel and place it in a secure box. It can then be left with fresh water and tinned cat food until we arrive.

“Our rescued hedgehogs will be released once they have reached a suitable weight of over 600g and the weather has warmed up to a consistent nighttime temperature of over four degrees centigrade.”

Anyone who finds a hedgehog this winter that they believe to be injured or distressed should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

To stay up to date on the hedgehogs brought into our wildlife centre, follow #SSPCAHedgehogHeroes on social media.

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The Advertizer

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bishopton Art Group to exhibit in Bridge of Weir

. . . Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir . . .

Tuesday 27th November - Friday 4th January 2019 at The Bridge 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 normal 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. (Sunday closed) Jack Watson, Chairman of Bishopton Art Group said, “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 27th November and runs for almost 5 weeks. There will be a great selection of paintings on display. The paintings will also be available to buy and would make ideal presents for Christmas. Members of Bishopton Art Group are grateful for the support that they receive.” bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bishopton Christian Aid Hand-delivery of Christmas Cards in Bishopton & Erskine Each year the Bishopton Christian Aid Group organises a Hand-delivery of Christmas Cards in Bishopton (including Dargavel) and Erskine. We would like to thank our merry band of volunteers who deliver the cards.

Cards will be specially stamped and delivered for a minimum donation of 25p each. Cards may be deposited in special boxes at the following locations.

• The Co-op and KeyStore, Greenock Road from Monday 3rd until 12noon on Sunday 16th December • Avalon Hair & Beauty, Station Road from Monday 3rd until 12noon on Saturday 15th December

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bishopton Christmas Tree Light Switch On Sunday 2nd December from 6.30pm Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton Bishopton Community Centre Association and Bishopton Parish Church have once again organised the free Christmas tree light switch on ceremony and community carol singing. The carol singing will be held indoors starting at 6.30pm. The Christmas tree light switch on ceremony will take place outdoors in the Community Centre’s car park, adjacent to the Christmas tree. The carol singers will include children and adults from community organisations. Song sheets will be distributed for everyone else to join in. Refreshments available. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Hope Hall

You are invited to come along to our Christmas Celebrations Events: Monday 17th December ~ Investigating Christmas (for kids) 6pm Sunday 23rd December ~ Christmas Carols 4.30pm Monday 24th December ~ Watchnight Service 11pm Please come along, we would love to see you! Maxwell Place, Bridge of Weir (Behind the Co-op) bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Langbank SWI Alexander’s the Butcher in Port Glasgow demonstrated their produce for the Langbank SWI. We tasted different styles of marinated chicken, and an innovative chicken pizza was delicious. Everyone took home a goody bag of marinated chicken, and Drew and Eddie answered questions about all of their award winning produce.

They have many special offers and unique flavour combinations, so visiting the shop in Port Glasgow is recommended. Next month on Thursday 13th December at 7.30pm is our Christmas Party and everyone should bring a £1 Secret Santa wrapped gift.

• The Cornerstone, Greenock Road on Saturday 8th & 15th (10am - 2pm) and Sunday 9th & 16th (12.30pm - 2pm) • After Church Services on Sunday 9th & 16th To ensure speedy delivery, please print clearly the name and FULL ADDRESS. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets fortnightly on Tuesdays (10am 12noon) during the winter months.

If you’d like to try lacemaking we can provide materials & tuition. For further details phone (01505) 613967.

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

BoW Lace Group

Singing for Wellbeing

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

James MacLaren, Natalie Don, Colin McCulloch | Advice Surgeries: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/councillors ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Community Council ...

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm | www.bishoptoncouncil.com BRIDGE OF WEIR: 1st Tuesday of the month, Cargill Hall: 7pm | www.bridgeofweir.org February - June & September - December (October AGM). (No meetings July and August) LANGBANK: Church Hall: 2nd Wed at 7.30pm

Community Halls to Let ...

Bridge of Weir: Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 community hall Please add your - email to list r ou to details r.co.uk ize rt ve ad info@

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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The Bridge

A Big Thank you for your custom over the past seven years. With your support and our loyal volunteers we manage to run The Bridge with its Post Office as a viable concern. The Community Centre and Shop continue to supplement the annual shortfall of over £7,000 in running our Post Office. It is therefore vital your support continues.

Support The Bridge this Christmas – send one of our individually designed charity Christmas Cards. View local scenes throughout 2019 in the Bridge of Weir calendar. Also in stock are the popular “Greetings from Bridge of Weir” cards, Traidcraft and relation cards, Christmas paper, tags and your essential diary for 2019.

Post Office - visit the website or call in to check the Christmas postal dates.

Christmas stamps and a range of gift cards are now available – Donald, Anne and Stuart will be delighted to ensure you are well supplied.

Within our shop you will find padded and postal bags, boxes, wrapping paper, string and wrapping tape to ensure your gifts reach their destination securely wrapped.

. . . Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir . . .

Looking forward to Christmas - many thanks to Brighter Bridge of Weir for the gift of an outdoor Christmas Tree.

In the run up to Christmas please come in and enjoy a coffee whilst viewing the artwork of Bishopton Art Group. To all residents of Bridge of Weir we wish you a happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2019.

The Bridge – Your Community Centre Shop and Post Office Closed 25th & 26th December 2018 and 1st & 2nd January 2019. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Messy Church Bridge of Weir Messy Church annual Christingle service will be on Sunday 9th December from 4pm - 6pm.

food and a chat.

We will be in Freeland church hall from 4pm - 5pm making the Christingles along with other activities. We will then move into the church for a short service, including lighting the Christingles. After that, we will go back to the hall for

All welcome, of any age. Just turn up on the day. Free of charge but we will collecting either donations of money for the Children’s Society or donations of new toys that will be given to children in Scotland.

We hope to see you there! bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir Choral Society Christmas Concert This year’s concert will be on Sunday 16th December in St Columba Church at 7.30pm. Our featured composer this Christmas is John Rutter. We will be singing several of his carols including ‘Rejoice and be merry’, ‘All Bells in Paradise’, and an arrangement of ‘O Holy Night’.

The programme also includes ‘Totus Tuus’ by Gorecki and ‘Carol of the Bells’ by Barlow Bradford. We are looking forward to welcoming the Johnstone Brass Band and the Handbell Ringers from Houston Primary School to our concert. Tickets priced £10 will be available from choir members and at the door.

Merry Christmas and I wish you all a happy New Year. As I write this I am thinking of last year’s heavy snow fall and wonder how the council will fare with their winter maintenance. I am pleased that the villages will each get a large community grit bin in addition to the normal grit bins. This is so that people can go there for a supply of grit for their own needs, but of course, only if you can get there in the first place.....

Quite a number of residents have complained to me about not getting their bins emptied on time, particularly where bulk bins are concerned. This is rather worrying given the complexity of an additional green bin into the mix. I would be very interested to hear from you if you are having problems getting your bins emptied.

I will continue my efforts to push for a solution at the notorious A8 Langbank roundabout. Your Local MSP Maurice Golden and myself have again written to Transport Scotland as well as Transport Secretary Michael Matheson to put pressure for a permanent solution at a spot where speeding motorists are commonplace. Transport Scotland say that it is too early to carry out a further assessment on the stretch having assessed it in 2015/16, with the cooling off period being three years. We will be asking for another assessment next year and continue to push until we feel motorists and local residents are kept safe by measures put in place. This roundabout coming into Langbank is a notorious stretch for speeding and while fortunately there has not been a raft of fatal accidents, it is clear that local residents continue to have major concerns. It is frustrating to a degree that further assessments cannot be carried out now, as the longer this problem is left, then the greater the risk becomes. I believe the stretch of road at Langbank is an issue which I have campaigned on for years, but I don’t believe a satisfactory solution has yet been found.

“It is disappointing that we have to wait until the road can be assessed again, but that must be done as an absolute priority when the cooling off period ends.

“It is imperative that motorists and local residents feel safe and I will be continuing to keep the pressure on Transport Scotland to fully invest in upgrading safety at Langbank.”

Please note my surgery details: • Langbank Parish Church Hall - 1st Monday of every month (6.30pm) • Bridge of Weir Cargill Hall - 2nd Monday of every month (6.30pm) • Bishopton Community Library - 3rd Monday of every month (6.30pm)

Churches in Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir ... ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

LANGBANK PARISH CHURCH: Sunday Services 10am with Sunday School, Crèche and young people’s group, the Welcomers. Tea/coffee after the service.

Church service starts at 10am. Come along and meet in the Hall from 9.50am. Charity No. SC015085.

FREELAND CHURCH - For details please check website: www.freeland.org.uk 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: 30th November - Guild Community Lunch in St Machar’s Church Hall. Sunday 16th December 10.30am Service of Lessons and Carols. Sunday 23rd - 10.30 am Instant Nativity – Everyone welcome, come dressed up if you fancy, no rehearsal needed. Monday 24th - 11.30 pm Community Watchnight Service by Candlelight.

HOPE HALL: Sun 1.15pm Sunday School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; Mon 6pm Investigators for Kids, 7.30pm Bible Study and Prayer. www.bridgeofweirchurch. co.uk

I can be contacted by phone on 0300-300-1291 or by email to: cllr. james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov. uk . Check out my Facebook page for more information and articles www. facebook.com/councillormaclaren Working with you and improving our local area. Please feel free to contact me with any of your concerns, and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time.

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Roads: The Community Council’s Traffic Calming sub-committee has entered into discussions with Renfrewshire Council to improve road traffic safety at the entrances to the Village. Initially a visit was held with a senior officer from the Roads Department, and further to the visit the Community Council has sent proposals to Renfrewshire Council for consideration. These include lighting be improved at the A761 Kilmacolm Road approach, the current markings be refreshed and supplemented with 30mph roundels, additionally an electronic double sided driver information reminder sign be mounted.

Monday 3rd December

Our first November trip was to Lewis Hill, a craggy wee top west of Bannockburn and a walk round North Third Reservoir. The weather held and the day was enhanced by a pair of Whooper swans and a skein of Canada Geese. The coffee break was at the Bannockburn Centre.

Bridge of Weir Community Council

The entrance to the village from Johnstone is patiently awaiting the introduction of the extended 30mph restriction on the Johnstone Road at St Mary’s Church, and at the same time consideration should be given to methods of insuring a safe crossing point from St Mary’s car park to the Church.

. . . Bishopton, Langbank & Bridge of Weir . . .

The B790 access from Houston requires improved driver information such as countdown flags and an early warning of the blind summit prior to the Elm Road junction. Torr Road and Kilbarchan Road village entrance points would benefit from 30mph roundels. The Community Council has also informed Renfrewshire Council of our willingness to be involved in a pilot scheme for the possibility of introducing a new form of cushioned speed bumps at the three main village entrances, Kilmacolm, Johnstone and Houston.

Tidying Up: The November meeting heard reports from our three Renfrewshire Councillors Don, McCulloch and MacLaren, these included the overflowing sewage pipe at Pow Burn already reported to SEPA, large items of rubbish to be removed from Houston Road Park, willow hedge at Primary School cut back, three litter bins at Livery Walk replaced with more to be replaced within the next financial year, Mill Lade Path a Council Supervisor has inspected the area and Renfrewshire Council has agreed to flail along the sides of the pathway. Kilallan Avenue street lamps most have been repaired after the black out, and a large grit bin will be placed in Livery Walk Car Park for general use.

Police Report: Community Police Officer Eilidh O’Hanlon reported the previous month saw 7 crimes reported in Bridge of Weir and one has been detected.

The Police are keeping additional vigilance at the Primary School and under the railway bridge.

Council: Renfrewshire Council are currently reviewing the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils in which they propose a complaints procedure be introduced, we are strongly opposed to this as we take the view that there has been no requirement for such a procedure since the establishment of Community Council’s in Renfrewshire and it will be an unnecessary burden on the time of volunteers to fulfil the new procedure.

Charging Stations: A member of the Community Council is to investigate the feasibility of installing electric car chargers within the village.

Awards: The Community Council is privileged once again to nominate Brighter Bridge of Weir for the 2018/19 Provost Community Award. We all agree Brighter Bridge of Weir have made substantial improvements to the environment of our Village.

Next meeting: Tuesday 4th December at 7pm in the Cargill Hall. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

In my first full calendar year as one of your local Councillors, from the ‘thundersnow’ in February through to the searing heat of Summer and into the rainy deluge of Autumn, there have been a multitude of issues raised along the way. Roads, transport and planning concerns continue to be the most commonly raised issues with myself, and I’ll continue to press for greater devotion of resources to improve our roads network. Hopefully the Council and developers have learned lessons around the debacle at Deafhillock and we can look forward to improvements being carried out a bit more efficiently in future.

I’ll also continue with my election pledge to campaign for the building of new affordable housing across Renfrewshire – we need somewhere for our young people to grow up and call home that isn’t light years out of their price range. I do worry that the West Renfrewshire villages in particular are becoming increasingly unaffordable for local young families wishing to put down roots. We have a duty to right that wrong.

The proposed new Transport Bill is currently inching its way through the Scottish Parliament; I sincerely hope powers are devolved to Councils to allow them to run comprehensive and integrated systems of public transport, so we can properly link up our rural areas with the rest of the county and beyond.

The continued squeeze on public spending means the lion’s share of the diminished Local Authority budgets is rightfully targeted at education and social care; perhaps a long-term sustainable funding settlement by Parliament will allow Councils to also renew our roads network properly and invest in other public infrastructure to make our local communities fit for the 21st century.

Please continue to get in touch if you have issues you wish to raise, but in the meantime let me wish in you advance to you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Christmas Lights Switch-On - Bridge of Weir Starting with a Carol Service in Freeland Church at 6.15pm, there will be a recital by the Bridge of Weir Primary School Choir at 7pm in Livery Walk, followed by the Lights Switch-On at Livery Walk at 7.15pm by the village Gala Queen.

Come along to meet the Main Man at Santa's Grotto in the Hope Hall from 7.20pm to 8.30pm.

There will also be a variety of Christmas Stalls at Bernie's Cafe Deli from 7pm to 9pm.

Please note times are approximate and may be subject to change depending on weather.

BoW Hillwalkers are up and running

Future events planned are an overnight trip to Oban where we hope to walk on Kerrera Island and other walks locally staying in the excellent Youth hostel, and an outing to Meikle Bin at the end of the Campsies.

Our Facebook page is also up and running and our contacts are Alison Johnstone on 01505 874989 or Don Smith on 01505 321720 (also at: donwwsmith@gmail.com)

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Christmas Craft Coffee Morning on Saturday 1st December from 10am - 12.30pm St Machars Ranfurly Church Hall, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir.

Please come along and support this fantastic event! bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church All join in …

When my kids were small they used to love a hilarious rhyming book by Quentin Blake, called ‘All Join In’. One of the rhymes describes how a large extended family do all sorts of things together, including baking a chocolate fudge banana cake – you really need to see the pictures to see how that works out! Suffice to say it is a joy filled, though rather messy affair.

You may not readily think of church as a place to join in, or in fact as a joy-filled or messy affair. I can assure you that when you do join in it will turn out to be both joy-filled and messy at times. Although anyone is welcome to just turn up and observe – our services are public and open – there is always the invitation to join in more deeply. The point of singing and praying together is just that – an act of opening oneself up to God and one another. We are not an ‘audience’ that have come to listen or be entertained, we are participants in worship. In fact, the Christian story, and the story of the Bible is one of joining in; we’re not just asked to listen or agree with some ideas or principles, we’re being invited into the story that God is writing throughout history. At Christmas time the surprise we celebrate is that God himself steps into the human story by becoming one of us.

Jesus fulfils the many strands of the Old Testament stories and yet sets history on a surprising new course. Jesus opens that story up for the whole world to join in with. It’s a story of light shining in the darkness and faith, hope and love enduring to the end. You are invited to join with this story. Come and find out how it turns out!

Rev Hanneke Marshall P.S.: You are invited to join in with our Instant Nativity, dressed up if you fancy!

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church, Sunday 23rd December 10.30 am.

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The ceremony on the 11th November at the War Memorial at 6am was very well attended. The massed pipes and drums playing the tribute ‘The Battle’s Over’ was poignant and stirring. The Lord Lieutenant, Guy Clark gave the exhortation with relevant contributions from pupils Mark Connolly, Caitlin Anderson and Jason Leitch. The Flowers of the Forest and Last Post played in the morning darkness were quite emotional. Well done Gordon Bruce of St Columba’s and the Police who were in discrete attendance. Sculptures know as Tommies have been erected at the memorials in Quarriers and Kilmacolm. They are a haunting and moving memorial to the fallen soldiers of WW1. It is regretful that the British Legion in BoW has closed. We are grateful to Mrs Carson and her colleagues who for many years helped conduct the wreath laying in Kilmacolm before their own parade in BoW.

Thanks to all the brave souls who attended the bonfire and fireworks. Again Lawrie Campbell’s team, the Wilson boys from Craigmarloch, Sam Johnston, Malcolms, Dougie Lyle and many others must be thanked for their contributions.

There was never any chance of us cancelling, not like the softies in Greenock and Paisley. We lost money but made money last year, swings and roundabouts.

No news from the Reporter on how the Gladman application at Knapps and North Dennistoun will be handled. The developer wished it to be conducted by written submissions. The reporter can have a public hearing and an accompanied or unaccompanied site visit with no notice. The Quarriers Gladman application will probably not now make the January Planning Board. There is also no action currently from the developers involved with the West of Quarry Drive and Planetreeyetts sites.

Kilmacolm Primary School is to have an expansion of the existing Nursery Class involving provision of a new outdoor teaching space incorporating WCs. Works will be taken forward and completed ahead of the planned operational date of August 2019.

I wish everybody a peaceful and relaxed Christmas.

I can be contacted at: david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk 712727 and 07766 992294.

01475 741969 and

kilmacolm & quarriers

St Columba’s School Christmas Fayre

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

The Christmas lights switch on will be on the 7th December at 4pm in Quarriers and 6pm in Kilmacolm. Due to the sterling efforts of the girls in the Cross Café eight more lamp posts will have decorations. The new CO-OP is due to open during the week of the switch on. The CO-OP have taken over the completion of the whole building and hopefully there will be some relief for the residents in Smithy, Brae.

It is not acceptable to park in front of a private driveway. There will be a loading bay at the CO-OP on Lochwinnoch Road from 8am to 10am after which it will revert to normal 2 hour parking. In the period Jan - Jun 2017 there were 149 tickets issued in the village for contraventions of parking disc legislation. None in 2018. The discs were an inappropriate method for controlling parking in a village with many visitors and a still thriving, just, retail offer.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Saturday 8th December, 2pm - 5pm Fun for all the Family Crafts, Gifts & Christmas Baking Santa’s Grotto • Real Christmas Trees Performances by our Junior Choir Christmas Films Games & Surprises Free Entry Please use the Gryffe Road entrance St Columba’s Senior School, Kilmacolm Tel.: 01505 872238 www.st-columbas.org/christmasfayre

Kilmacolm Christmas Card “ Winter - Auchenbothie Farm with Aged Yew Tree, - Kilmacolm “.

From an original oil painting by the impressionist James A Wood Kilmacolm.

The cards will be available for sale in Threads and the Post Office.

SANTA SLEIGH DECEMBER 2018 kilmacolm & quarriers

Thank you from Ardgowan Kilmacolm Friends of Ardgowan Hospice would like to thank everyone who gave donations and came along to the Christmas Fayre and Coffee Morning on 10th November. We raised a very generous sum of £2,516.

Houston - 2nd - 7th Kilmacolm - 8th (lower) & 10th (upper) Brookfield - 9th Bridge of Weir - 11th - 15th Quarriers - 16th Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Your Ward 1 Councillors ... for Inverclye East (includes Kilmacolm & Quarriers)

David Wilson, Stephen McCabe, Christopher Curley | Advice Surgeries: http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/meetings/councillors/ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Community Council ...

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

KILMACOLM & QUARRIERS: Last Tuesday at 7.30pm, Kilmacolm Cargill Centre (NB: No meetings: July or Dec) | www.kilmacolmcc.co.uk missed? - email Any details we've vertizer.co.uk ad them to info@

Community Halls to Let ...

Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre. Tel: 873994 Kilmacolm, Brownie/Guide Hut. Tel: 07584 359007 Kilmacolm, Masonic Hall. Tel: 873059

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Kilmacolm Scout Group will be providing a Christmas Card Postal Service again this December.

Quiz Night - 19th October

Christmas Card Post All you do is post your local Christmas Cards in the Scout post box in either The Kilmacolm Community Centre or The Cross Café.

You can post any time between Saturday 1st December and 6pm on Friday 14th December.

A minimum 30p donation is kindly requested for each card. The cards will be delivered during the weekend of the 15th and 16th December. We can only deliver to residential Kilmacolm (not farms or rural properties). kilmacolm & quarriers

Annual Christmas Tree Sale

Kilmacolm Old Kirk News There was a good turn out with several community organisations entering teams. After a tense competition the winning team was from St Fillan’s, so congratulations to them.

Remembrance Day - 11th November A moving and solemn joint service between The Old Kirk and St Columba’s, conducted by Rev. Peter McEnhill and Rev. Bill Armstrong, was held at The Old Kirk to mark the 100th anniversary of the WW1 armistice. The names of all 77 people from Kilmacolm who lost their lives in the Great War were read out, 11 of whom were teenagers. The singing of the joint congregation of the hymn ‘Make me a channel of your peace’ immediately following this was fulsome and heartfelt.

Saturday 1st & 8th December 10am - 2.30pm

Available at the Scout Hall, Barrs Brae. Free tree delivery in Kilmacolm. Please come along, choose a wonderful tree and support your local Scout Group. kilmacolm & quarriers

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

Christmas at Mount Zion Church We would like to invite you to our special Christmas services: Sunday 23rd December - Special family Service at 10.30am.

Monday 24th December - Annual Carols

by Candlelight service at 7pm. This has proved to be a really special and well attended event; let’s gather to sing the carols and to consider again the true meaning of Christmas, topped off with seasonal refreshments.

Tuesday 25th December - 10.30am, a lovely way to start Christmas day, worshipping the new-born King.

Coming in January 2019... ... A new club for primary school age children, at Mount Zion Church, Quarriers village.

There will be more details in the next issue, and on our website, www.mountzionquarriers.org.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Supporting Inverclyde Foodbank Christmas can be a time of hardship for some families. We at KRA are inviting people to join us in a reverse advent calendar drive. This is a simple idea which will benefit some of the poorest families in Inverclyde.

It’s easy and so worthwhile.

1. Get an old empty box 2. Fill the box with one item each day for 24 days (tins; dry food; toiletries; sweets) 3. Bring the box on 23/12/18 at Kilmacolm Scout Hall between 11am and 2 pm

OKFEST BREAKOUT - Sing-Along Mamma Mia 15th November Sing-Along Mamma Mia was terrific, well attended by young and old and by the end people were up and dancing. The Old Kirk plans to hold regular music/other cultural events for the whole community. Watch this space for diary dates.

Old Kirk Christmas Fair 8th December Kidston Hall 10am12noon Bric a Brac, Tombola Christmas Stall, Jewellery & Accessories, Books and including Santa’s Grotto.

Entry: Adults £2, Children Free. Funds raised will be in aid of Pilgrimage Pathway and Ardgowan Hospice

Outlook ‘OUTLOOK’ Kilmacolm, is a social community group, formulated for friendship and fellowship.

It is led by the Community Issues team of Kilmacolm Old Kirk. The group meets in Kidston Hall, 2pm - 4pm. Everyone is most welcome.

Programme for December: 6th December

Building a Compassionate Community with guest speaker Alison Bunce, Ardgowan Hospice .

20th December

Christmas Party with ‘Elf on the Shelf’ quiz, Christmas Tombola. Pass the Parcel and Refreshments, ending with Carols at the Piano with Sandra.

4. The boxes will be collected and picked up by a Kilmacolm Residents Association representative and dropped at Inverclyde food bank.

5. To register interest or for advice contact KilmacolmResidentsAssociaton@ gmail.com

Easy as that ? Ho! Ho! Ho!

ADVANCE NOTICE Burns Supper on February 15th 2019 in Kidston Hall. Tickets £20. Contact Mary Leishman on 07801 981611. kilmacolm & quarriers

Crafty Play Café Every Tuesday, Quarriers Village Cafe Booking slots available 10am 12noon; 12noon - 2pm; 2pm - 4pm

Katy has been working in the village for over 3 years and has recently started her own beauty business katy@kilmacolm located in Arlene Mitchell Hair Salon on High Street. Katy offers a friendly and professional service that includes a range of treatments such as lvl lashes, shellac manicures/pedicures and full body massage. Check out katy@kilmacolm on social media or pop into the shop for a full list of available treatments.

Cost: Free entry; £2 for kids craft materials (optional) Sick of softplay? Come along to our Quarriers café every Tuesday when the upper section of the café will be transformed into a children’s play and craft area. Relax and have a coffee while your children or grandchildren play!

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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KDS Scottish Themed Quiz Night

Full details and tickets can be obtained by contacting John Gilchrist by email: gilchy57@ gmail.com or phone: 01475 540392.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Guide Hut to Hire

A great venue with easy access near to the village centre. Refurbished main hall, 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.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Patients Can Bank on Great Service EnVisage Dentistry opened its newest practice last month in Kilmacolm. The practice will welcome both NHS and private patients to its new premises on Lochwinnoch Road – in the former Royal Bank of Scotland building.

A major refit of the site has transformed the old bank into a state-of-the-art dental practice, with full disability access.

A comprehensive range of treatments will be on offer at EnVisage, from all NHS general dental services, to hygiene treatments and cosmetic dentistry, such as clear braces, tooth whitening, dental implants and porcelain veneers.

Puneet Gupta and Brendan Murphy, Directors of EnVisage have both lived in the local area for a number of years.

Commenting on the new practice, Puneet Gupta said, “EnVisage Dentistry will offer patients the highest standard of dental care, employing the latest technology and techniques available.”

He added, “I am also pleased to confirm that the existing ATM has been retained as part of our re-fit, for the convenience of the local community.”

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

Sunday 30th November, St Andrew's Day, at Strathgryffe Tennis Squash & Fitness Club, Houston

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Bring the family along to see the Christmas lights switched on at various locations throughout Inverclyde. Come along and join in the festive fun!

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.

Christmas Lights '18 Kilmacolm Surgeries

NOVEMBER: Gourock - from 6pm Friday 30th DECEMBER:

Brendan Murphy, added: “EnVisage Kilmacolm will offer everything you would expect from your family dentist – from regular check-ups and hygienist treatments to cosmetic braces and implants. We look forward to welcoming patients from across Inverclyde and Renfrewshire.”

Port Glasgow - from 6pm Wednesday 5th

Patients of Ian Lynch – Kilmacolm’s dentist of more than 30 years – will be delighted to know that he will be joining the EnVisage team at the new clinic – no need to climb the stairs anymore!

Kilmacolm - from 6pm Friday 7th

Quarriers Village - 4pm Friday 7th

Churches in Kilmacolm & Quarriers ... _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ KILMACOLM OLD KIRK: Church of Scotland (Charity no. SC009291). www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk. Minister Rev. Dr. Peter McEnhill (01505 873174). December 2nd 11am. First Sunday in Advent; Sunday 16th - 11am. Christmas Gift Sunday* and Family Nativity Service, followed by coffee, tea and mince pies. Sunday 23rd - 11am Sacrament of Holy Communion. 4pm - Reflective Service; time to remember those we love and miss. Sòlas Bereavement Group is held in Kidston Hall on the 2nd Thursday each month at 2pm. Outlook on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 2pm. *Christmas Gift Sunday this year is supporting the work of Inverclyde Women’s Aid, CrossReach and Inverclyde Children and Family Team.

United Services Old Kirk/St Columba’s: Monday 24th December - 11.15pm - United Watchnight Service at the Old Kirk. Tuesday 25th 11am - Christmas Day united service at St Columba’s. Sunday 30th - 11am at the Old Kirk.

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.

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. Please come and invite others: all welcome!

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The Advertizer

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Help Morag and Liz reach 500 (we are at 468!) people through Heart Start to save a life!

Morag and Liz beside the AED in Lochwinnoch

Would you know what to do in an Emergency?

. . . Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie . . .

Everyone welcome! ♥ Every week in Scotland, 70 people suffer cardiac arrest. ♥ More than 3500 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 in 2019: Tuesday 22nd January

1pm - 3pm

Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge

Tuesday 26th February

7pm - 9pm

Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge

Tuesday 30th April

1pm - 3pm

Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge

If you have a group in the Lochwinnoch / Howwood area that would like a Heart Start Course Liz and Morag are pleased to come to your group to deliver the course. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

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.

December Tuesday 18th: Christmas Get Together – Taste and Try – Fun and Games, Santa Bag Value £4, Competition – something beginning with the letter ‘C’. Vote of thanks: Elizabeth Lawson

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood Community Council

Howwood Parish Church Community Coffee Shop Community Coffee Shop First Friday monthly Howwood Parish Church: 10am - 12noon

“In the community, for the community” Adults £2 Children free.

All welcome.

Howwood WI

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

Kilbarchan

There are 2 meetings in December when we shall each write “A Christmas Memory” in 500 words and of course the Christmas party.

For further information please visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk or phone 703786.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Speeding traffic through Howwood is causing considerable concern. Any hold-ups or accidents on the A737 and Howwood is used as a ‘Rat-Run’ with motorists having no regard whatsoever for the residents safety or the added danger to children. With the flashing 30mph sign having been out of action for over a year now, something needs to be done and I have asked for repairs to be carried out immediately. The excessive speed of vehicles using Bowfield Road has also been raised and though I have previously raised this issue and some changes were made, it obviously is not working. Hopefully in next month's report I will have better news about these issues.

The progress for the Asset Transfer of the Play Park in Howwood, under the ‘Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015’ seems to have stalled. I have had discussions with Frank Hughes (Asset Manager, Renfrewshire Council) to try and keep things moving. The result is that a meeting with representatives from Howwood Community Council and other interested parties will be meeting on the 19th November to hopefully carry things forward. Our experience on this project will help in determining how we tackle the Assets of Steeple Hall in Kilbarchan and the McKillop Institute in Lochwinnoch and whether it is feasible or not.

The Local Partnerships Scheme came into force during November which replaces the Local Area Committees (LAC). Two Local Partnerships are in Ward 9. LP3 (Houston, Bridge of Weir, Brookfield, Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch and Elderslie) and LP4 (Johnstone and Linwood). The preliminary dates for the first meetings had to be cancelled and no new dates have been decided prior to this report. For details of how to apply for funding etc. contact Mr David Low at:- dave. low@renfrewshire.gov.uk Tel: 0141 61807105.

Funding is always a big issue for charitable organisations, sports clubs, play groups, parent teacher groups etc. I attended the end of year get together at the Tannahill Centre, of the Glasgow Airport Flight Path Fund to celebrate, with recipients, the end of year total of donated funds amounting to £167,000. One organisation received the £25,000 lump sum which it is hoped can be awarded on an annual basis for an outstanding application. I am giving you this information as I would like to see more applicants from Ward 9 sending in applications. Contact :- glasgowairport.com/community for an online or paper application.

Time really does fly and it is that time of year again. So without further ado :I wish you all a really wonderful Christmas and a fabulous New Year. Email: cllr. bill.binks@renfrewshire.gov.uk Tel: 0300 300 1423 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch SWI As there is no meeting in December we would like to wish members and friends a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New year. We look forward to seeing everyone again at the January meeting. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Choral Society Christmas Concert The Perfect Start to the Christmas Holidays The much-loved Lochwinnoch Choral Society Christmas Concert is being held on Sunday 16th December at 7pm in Lochwinnoch Parish Church. This year’s theme is ‘Christmas Bells’ and will feature a mix of familiar carols and a few Christmas songs that might be new to some. Once again, the choir will be supported by members of the Scottish Philharmonic Orchestra, so there is bound to be something for all tastes.

Tickets are £8, with free admission to under 16’s if they are accompanied by a paying adult, so bring the whole family. After the concert, we hope that the audience will join us for a complimentary cup of mulled wine (or a soft drink) which is also included in the ticket price.

Tickets will be available from our brilliant local businesses, the ‘Now and Then’ shop, The Brown Bull Pub and The Junction Cafe. Tickets will also be available on the door if you are not able to buy one in advance.

Your Ward 9 Councillors ... for Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderlsie

Andy Doig, Derek Bibby, Bill Binks, Emma Rodden | Advice Surgeries: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/councillors ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Community Council ...

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

Community Halls to Let ...

Howwood: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. | www.howwood.com/community-council.php Kilbarchan, Guide Centre. Tel: 702758.

Kilbarchan: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. | www.kilbarchan.info/community_council.html Kilbarchan, Old Library Centre. Tel: 706070 Lochwinnoch: Bowling Club: 1st Tues at 7.30pm

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Christmas Fayre

Saturday 1st December from 10am-12 noon

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Free Tea Dance Friday 7th December Lochwinnoch Golf Club Note at earlier time of 1pm (Transport from the cross at 12.45pm). Dance to ‘Music box’! And sing song with Willie Gamble! All with a Christmas theme!

Tel: 07868 information.

752814

for

more

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Christmas Lights Switch on

Monday 3rd December at 7pm at Steeple Street.

Kilbarchan Community Council invite you all to our big switch-on. There will be entertainment prior to the switch on and then of course a visit from Santa.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

The Kilbarchan Singers Carol Concert

Saturday 8th December

at 7.30pm (doors open 7pm)

Kilbarchan Parish Church, Steeple Square, PA10 2JD The Kilbarchan Singers invite you to their Christmas Carol Concert.

Tickets £10 (children free) including light Christmas Supper.

Scottish Registered Charity No. SC030603 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Old Library Centre Kilbarchan It has been a year of change here at the Old Library Centre. Ann Grieve retired as chairman at the end of June and is very much missed. However, we have welcomed two new Board Members, Willie Beattie and Drew Connell onto the Board as well as some new volunteers, who have been working alongside our hardworking current volunteers.

The calendar for 2019 which is produced by our wonderful volunteer team is now on sale for £4.99. The calendar contributes to funds that help keep the centre running as a community facility so please support us by buying it.

We will be closing for the Christmas holidays on Friday 21st December and will re-opening on Monday 7th January.

May we wish all our friends, supporters and volunteers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Bring a Cushion singalong There was a wonderful turn out for the first Dementia Friendly Lochwinnoch ‘Bring a cushion’ event on Friday 2nd November at the Calder Church. The hall was full for the screening of the 1963 classic Summer Holiday, a pop musical with Cliff Richard and the Shadows about four London Transport mechanics trying to run a European travel service with a double-decker bus!.

We would also like to extend a special thanks to William Reekie, Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron and Councillor Derek Bibby, and of course to everyone who helped make it happen behind the scenes.

Thank you also to all who attended the screening of Summer Holiday, for singing along and making it a wonderful afternoon!

The next film will be in early 2019 watch this space!!

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kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

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Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots' Club The Christmas party is on Monday 17th December at 9.45am when the highlight will be a visit from Santa.

The club resumes after the festive season on Monday 7th January from 9.15am -11.30am in the church hall.

All tots are welcome, accompanied by an adult!

. . . Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie . . .

At Kilbarchan Parish Church on Saturday 1st December from 10am 12noon in the halls, when there will be a large variety of gift stalls and the opportunity for children to have their photo taken with Santa. Entrance is £3, which includes coffee, mince pies and shortbread.

t: 01505 613340

The problem of speeding traffic in our villages continues to concentrate the minds of community councils and elected members alike. Measures imposed thus far have sadly failed to make a significant impact. One example is the recent installation of the pelican crossing at Barn Green in Kilbarchan.

While this was intended to provide a safe crossing point in the village, it has not changed the behaviour of those who speed excessively in Shuttle Street which at the junction of Meadside Avenue is a crossing point for children attending the school.

The new crocodile teeth road markings have also had little or no impact. I have long argued that enforcement of existing measures is required to deter those responsible for this unsafe and dangerous behaviour, and I will continue to press for this course of action from the police. I am grateful for the ongoing support of the community council and its tireless work on the issue.

Renfrewshire Council has received a reply from the Scottish Government's Transport Minister regarding the provision of disabled parking and access at platform 2 at Lochwinnoch railway station. He has confirmed that there are no plans to extend the car park at the station, and in addition it does not qualify for accessibility investment. This is yet another example of the transport needs of our villages being overlooked, and is unacceptable. Despite this latest setback, I will continue to fight the case for the necessary improvements.

There have been some minor repairs to potholes and drains in Howwood following the walkabout with Renfrewshire Council and members of the Community Council, however there remain a number of outstanding issues and a second walkabout is planned.

The changes to bin collections will be introduced week commencing 3rd December.

Collection day for Howwood and Lochwinnoch will be Mondays, with Kilbarchan remaining Fridays. The new green wheelie bins for the disposal of glass, plastics, and tins, are currently being phased in however there are few signs of answers to people’s concerns and problems about where to accommodate another bin, the implications of reduced grey bin collections, and the degree of flexibility should an uplift be missed due to bad weather. I have asked the council to ensure that there are sufficient supplies of salt in the grit bins.

It was heartening to see so many of our young people involved in the commemoration of the centenary of the Armistice that ended the First World War, commemorations which included the unveiling of a memorial by the pupils at Johnstone High School. It is so important that the generations express the debt of gratitude that all of us owe to those who made the supreme sacrifice.

It is hard to believe another year is almost at an end, with preparations for the festive season well underway. I wish everyone in Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch and all readers of the Advertizer and its staff a Happy and Peaceful Christmas.

My advice surgeries are on the first Saturday of every month, (except January and July) at 9am in the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch at 10am in Howwood Village Hall at 11am in the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan and 12.30pm in Johnstone Town Hall. Meantime please contact me at: cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007.

Churches in Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie ... __________________________________________________________________________________________________ KILBARCHAN PARISH CHURCH: Services continue at 11am on Sundays, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. The Junior Church and Crèche meet from 10.45am in the halls. The Wednesday Fellowship is at 10.30am in the small hall. There are the following special services during December: Sunday 16th - gift service when the gifts will be sent to Paisley Women’s Refuge and Paisley Young Carers, 2 very worthwhile local causes. | Sunday 23rd - 11am, Junior Church Nativity Play with the Junior Choir | 6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols led by the Senior Choir, followed by refreshments in the hall. | Christmas Eve: Watchnight service – Carol Singing from 11pm, led by Rock of Ages, the Praise band. 11.30pm service. | Christmas Day: short service at 10.30am, bring along a present which you have received. | Sunday 30th: 11am as usual. | Sunday 6th January: 11am worship, followed by an informal Communion.

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.

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. . . Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie . . .

Early Announcement - Lochwinnoch Arts Festival 2019 ‘A village of culture and heritage’ This year’s festival promises to be bigger than ever!!

We are delighted to announce that we have Karen Matheson performing on Saturday 16th March in the McKillop hall 7.30pm. Karen is well known for her compelling vocals of super-group Capercaillie.

“Karen Matheson has a throat that is surely touched by God” Sean Connery kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival presentation Tom Arthur presented a motion at the Scottish Parliament acknowledging the £1792.78 raised at the Arts Festival in March 2018. In loving memory of Anne Moore.

Tom presented the acknowledgement to June Burgess from St Vincent’s along with Corinne Hutton at the Pre-Christmas Craft Fair on Saturday 10th November. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

As we approach the Christmas period the season of Advent is traditionally a period of reflection, and I would like to reflect and thank all community activists for all that they bring to villages like Lochwinnoch, Howwood, and Kilbarchan. Be it as community councillors, litter pickers, youth group leaders or gala day organisers, I salute you all for the richness of commitment that you all contribute to our communities which make them better places to live. I realise these gifts are not given for praise, but rarely is praise given so I want to say thank you.

I would also like to wish all my constituents across the ward, of all faiths and none, a very happy and joyous Christmas. As families gather around the tree let us all try and keep an eye on those, such as the very elderly, who may have little or no family. Please consider the vulnerable and less fortunate this Christmas and do all you can to help them. Family should be the keynote of every Christmas so please think of those you have and hold dear, and those that are no longer with us but that are sorely missed.

The Advertizer

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 200 words, but we do appreciate that sometimes it is necessary for more to get your message across and we 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!

Thousands turn out for Paisley Christmas Lights Switch-On More than 27,000 people flocked to Paisley town centre to enjoy this years’ Christmas Lights spectacle.

Families enjoyed a full day of free fun, with Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron carrying out the big switch on. She was helped by 11-year-old Skye Thomson, from Paisley’s Heriot Primary School, who won the annual Christmas card design competition.

Earlier in the day a glittering parade with hundreds of tinsel-clad youngsters and Santa Claus and his reindeers wound its way through the town centre.

Many families got an early start on Christmas shopping with the town centre shops open for business and The Urban Market at Paisley Abbey.

The main stage featured entertainment from Capital FM DJs Des Clarke, Steven Mill and Garry Spence, with performances from family favourites Funbox, while the Princesses of Pop paid tribute to the music of Ariana Grande and Little Mix. X-Factor stars The Cutkelvins entertained the crowds just before the big Christmas countdown.

I do not have advice surgeries in the month of December but constituents can get me at any time either by calling me on 07534 148224, or e-mailing me at cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk. My advice surgeries will resume in January 2019.

SANTA SLEIGH 2018 - HOUSTON/BROOKFIELD Sunday 2nd - South Mound, Glenartney, St Fillans Dr, Manse Cres, Hargart Rd, Speirs Rd, Glebe Gdns, Four Windings, South St, North St, Fleming Rd, Burnlea Cres, Houstonfield Quad, Houstonfield Rd, Kirk Rd, Kilmacolm Rd, Fields Lane, Cricketfield Lane, Old School House Lane, Barochan Rd Monday 3rd - Crosslee Pk, Dunnet Dr, Whirlie Rd, Back o'Hill, Strawberry Fields, Whirlie Dr, Pine Gro, Mill Brae, Crosslee Gdns, Brierie Hills Cres, Brierie Hills Rd, Brierie Lane, Brierie Gdns, Goldenlee View, Brierie Hill Gro, Earlsgate, Brierie Ave Tuesday 4th - Crosslee Cres, Leeburn Ave, Craigholme, Woodside, The Beeches, Birch Gro, Riverside, Broomfield, The Meadows, Brackendene, Crossways, Neuk Cres, Neuk Ave Wednesday 5th - Locher Cres, Locher Gdns, Locher Avew, Locher Way, Locher Gait, Gryfebank Ave, Gryfewood Cres, Gryfewood Way, Gryfebank Clo, Gryfebank Way, Gryfebank Clo, Cunningham Gdns, Crawford Rd Thursday 6th - Netherburn Ave, Netherburn Gdns, Craigburn Ave, Craigburn Pl, Locherburn Pl, Locherburn Ave, Locherburn Gro, Craigburn Cres, Woodburn Pl, Hillside, Hillfoot, Fulton Gdns, Beatrice Gdns Friday 7th - Leman Dr, Leman Gr, Alwyn Ave, Bream Pl, Viking Cres, Cormorant Ave, Forties Rd, Claymore Dr, Piper Rd, Piper Ave, Ninian Ave, Brent Cres, Murchison Rd, Hutton Ave, Hewett Cres, Dunlin Cres, Berl Ave Sunday 9th - Brookfield

Please note that if bad weather causes cancellation of any night due to a shortage of volunteers these nights will not be rescheduled.

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

t: 01505 613340

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Killellan Kirk Social Bite There’s Still Time to Support Social Bite – Sleep in the Park The intrepid group of 10 from our Kirk have not yet got cold feet, although they might well have on the night. As intimated earlier, they are supporting Social Bite in their mission to end homelessness in Scotland within 5 years, by taking part in “Sleep in the Park” on 8th December in Kelvingrove Park. Lead by our Minister, Rev Gary Noonan, the team don’t expect tropical weather, but they believe it will be worth it, if it increases awareness of the fact that very many folk have to sleep out like this every night, in often appalling weather conditions. In taking part they are also raising funds for the Social Bite initiative, particularly in the run up to Christmas.

If you feel able, it is not too late to sponsor them and so support Social Bite through either the sponsor forms in the Kirk, or on our Virgin Money giving page: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/HoustonKirk There is a link to the giving page on the Kirk website: www.houstonkillellankirk.org Do share also on Facebook and Twitter. Together we can help achieve Social Bite’s target! houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston Christmas Lights Switch On

Main Street, Houston Organised by Houston Community Council in association with Houston & St Fillan’s Primary Schools.

Houston & Killellan Kirk Postie

Advertisement Feature

Home Support for Mum and Dad At Home Instead Senior Care, we work with you to provide flexible, personalised home care based on your specific requirements.

We’ll help you to stay in your community and live under your own roof, surrounded by your own things continuing to live by your own rules. Our home care services span home help, companionship, personal care and specialist dementia care.

Our Promise: • To Match you with a CAREGiver • To see the same CAREGiver everytime • To spend a minimum of one hour each visit

A Service For The Whole Community Raising funds for ‘Renfrewshire Home Start’ (Supporting families with young children) For a donation of only 25p a card the Houston Kirk Postie will deliver anywhere in Houston, Crosslee or Brookfield. The Sorting Office, in the West Church Halls, will be open from 10am to 12 noon, and again from 7pm to 8pm, every day from 10th to 13th December.

(Cards may also be taken to the Church on Sunday 9th December). Delivery is guaranteed not later than 18th December.

0141 280 8210 Bridge of Weir, Kilbarchan, Houston, Bishopton, Renfrew, Johnstone, Paisley https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/renfrewshirebarrhead Registered with Care Inspectorate

houston, crosslee & brookfield houston, crosslee & brookfield

Crafty Friends Crafty hobbies is what we do Come and join our crafty crew Come and learn some crafty makes Followed by some tea and cakes (or biscuits) We are a group of ladies who enjoy making things. No experience necessary. We just have a chat and do a bit of sewing/knitting/cross stitch or anything you like. We meet the first and third Thursday in the month. Please come and join us. Contact Lorna Cairns - 01505 612844.

Shirley White - 01505 610721 houston, crosslee & brookfield

French Conversation Our French conversation groups are still going strong. We meet in the Fox and Hounds in Houston on Wednesdays 9.30am till 12noon and alternate Tuesday afternoons 2pm - 4pm.

If you want to join us just come along. Details phone/text 07463 570464 or email avril. forbes2015@outlook.com. We look forward to welcoming you.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston & Crosslee SWI

We are looking forward to our Birthday Party on Wednesday 12th December starting at 7.30pm.

Our entertainment this year is a Christmas Quiz/Games night.

Our first meeting of 2019 on Wednesday 9th January will be a Corners Night. Please bring your Pennies for Friendship to the January meeting.

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

Houston & Killellan Agricultural Society Quiz Night Friday 30th November, 7.30pm, J. G. Fleming Bowling Club, Houston

. . . Houston, Crosslee & Brookfield . . .

Saturday 1st December from 4pm

houston, crosslee & brookfield

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Tickets are £5 to include a light supper and are available from committee members and Isabelle Stuart, 01505 613479 or e-mail: issistuart@gmail.com houston, crosslee & brookfield

Christmas at Houston & Killelan Kirk On Sunday 2nd December we will be having our Christmas Gift Service.

CROSSREACH is the social work arm of the Church of Scotland. They offer a visitors support and advice service at Perth Prison and a visitors Centre family hub and bus at Polmont Prison. These Services offer a safe and welcoming places for families to relax before and after a prison visit. There are toys and books for children to play with and free refreshments.

The Crossreach prison visitor service aims to provide a gift at Christmas to each child with whom it comes in contact it can only do this through the generously of donations. Few churches support this service and the support of Houston and Killellan Kirk over the past few years has been gratefully received.

Please bring your gifts on Sunday 2nd at Morning Service. On Sunday 9th we will be having a Lessons and Carols Service all welcome. Sunday 16th is the Nativity Play not to be missed. Christmas Eve at 11pm there will be community singing followed by the Watchnight Service at 11.30pm. On Christmas Day there will be a service at 11.30am.

Churches in Houston ... ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ HOUSTON AND KILLELLAN: All Services will be led by Rev Gary Noonan unless otherwise stated. Sunday 2nd December – 11am - Children’s Gift Service Supporting the children of prisoners. 7.30pm - Reflective remembrance service. Sunday 9th - 11am - Morning Worship, Rev. Jamie Millikan. 7.30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols. Sunday 16th – 11am - Sunday Club Nativity play. Sunday 23rd - 11am - Morning Worship. Monday 24th – 11pm Community carol singing. 11.30pm Watchnight service. Tuesday 25th – 11am - Christmas Day Service. Sunday 30th - 11am - Morning Worship. All our regular Sunday Morning services are at 11am. We would love to see you there or at any of our Christmas “specials”. You can find out more about us at www.houstonkillellankirk.org 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. Paul Brady.

Assistant Priest:- Rev. Chima Kingsley Opara. Pastoral Assistant: Sr. Mary Frances Collett, RNDM (Tel 01505 613514). Address: ‘Abbotsfield’, St. Fillan’s, Main St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T. 01505 612046. E. StFillan@rcdop.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 Street, Houston PA6 7EL. Rev Geoff Austin (Interim Pastor) Family Service at 10.30am, Creche available.

Communion service first Sunday of the month. Tel 01505 610862. www.houston.nazarene.org.uk

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The Advertizer

H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston (Houston Old School Trust) Monday to Friday, Gryffe Manor Out of School 01505 615438 Coffee Shop: - Mon - Fri 9am 4.30pm Sat 9am - 4pm

. . . Houston, Crosslee & Brookfield . . .

MONDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 1pm - Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 | Diaporama 10th @ 7.30pm | Sewing Group (Weekly) @ 10am - 12noon | Handiwifes 17th @ 7.30pm TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (Weekly) @ 10am Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 | Galaxy (own room) @ 4pm - 7pm | Yoga (Weekly) @ 7pm - M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Councillor Surgery - Scott Kerr 4th @ 6.45pm - 7.30pm | Councillor Surgery Allison Dowling 18th @ 12noon – 12.30pm | WRADS 11th @ 7.30pm WEDNESDAY Baby Class - Leisa Callahan @ 10am 075417 293826 | Gryffe Melody Makers 12th @ 7pm | Community Council 19th @ 7.30pm | Gryffe Camera Club (Weekly) @ 7.30pm | Galaxy @ 3.45pm

THURSDAY Gryffe Quilting Group @ 1.15pm - 3.15pm (21st 10am) | Primary Colours (Weekly) @ 3.30pm – 4.30pm | Crafty Friends 6th / 20th @ 7.30pm | Folk Club (weekly) @ 8pm - iaintdawson@gmail.com 07786 078952 | Galaxy (Weekly) @ 3.30pm - 7pm FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 10.30am - M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 3.15pm - 7pm | M.P. Surgery Gavin Newlands 14th @ 12.30pm – 1.30pm SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 9.30am - 5pm | Councillors Surgery Jim Sheridan 1st @ 11.30am – 12noon SUNDAY Baptist Church (weekly) @ 11am and 6pm

The Management and Staff, wish all a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful 2019 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

Co-Op Houston – Food Bank ‘Christmas Collection’ Weekend Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December – 9am till 9pm both days Wee Margaret and Jenny are looking forward to seeing you all in our Houston COOP to collect in your Christmas donations of food and toiletries along with cash donations for the Renfrewshire Food Bank.

A few items that the Food Bank is always short of...

Tinned Potatoes

Tinned Tomatoes

Tinned Fruit Tinned Creamed Rice & Tins or cartons of Custard Jam Litre cartons of orange juice (from the shelf not the fridge) Toiletries – Toothpaste & toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, deodorant, shave gel and razors etc *We cannot accept fresh food See you all in our Houston Co-op Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December 9am till 9pm both days Thank you for your kindness.

houston, crosslee & brookfield

As we approach the Christmas period I, like many constituents, am doing the Christmas shopping and am as guilty of anyone of taking the easy option and buying things online. However, I am trying to make a determined effort to shop more locally so that local traders and businesses in Renfrewshire can get the benefit. At this time of year it is natural to think of family members that are no longer with us, and I always remember my grandfather who ran his own business and how hard he worked, so let us all try harder to do our bit to support local businesses.

I would also like to wish all my constituents across the ward, of all faiths and none, a very happy and joyous Christmas. As families gather around the tree let us all try and keep an eye on those, such as the very elderly, who may have little or no family. Please consider the vulnerable and less fortunate this Christmas. If we do find ourselves caught in a snowstorm please remember that the local salt supplies are in the Carrick Centre Car Park Grit Bins to be used by everyone.

I do not have advice surgeries in the month of December but constituents can get me at any time either by calling me on 07768 130935, or e-mailing me at cllr.audrey. doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk. My advice surgeries will resume in January 2019. houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield news A reminder of events taking place in the Village during December:

SUNDAY 2nd DECEMBER: Christmas Tree Light Switch On from 5.30pm - FREE The perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Meet at the Village Hall at 5.30pm and join a candlelight procession to the Millennium Garden where our group of village brass players – the Brookfield Brass Necks – will entertain us with some Christmas music prior to the switch-on of the tree lights. Then it’s back to the Hall for hot chocolate and mulled wine and a viewing of ‘The Snowman’ on a giant screen! Lanterns will be available to borrow if you don’t have one of your own.

Once again we are grateful to Gowanlea Nursery and Garden Centre for providing a tree for the village.

SUNDAY 23rd DECEMBER: Christmas Carol Service - 2pm - FREE A musical celebration of Christmas with the Brookfield Brass Necks leading the carols followed by mince pies and mulled wine. A collection will be taken in aid of a local charity.

THURSDAY 27th DECEMBER: Cheese & Wine - 2pm - FREE This ever-popular event is the ideal opportunity for residents, visiting family members, friends and neighbours to get together for a really sociable afternoon between Christmas and New Year.

MONDAY 31st DECEMBER: Hogmanay Dance - 8.30pm - 1am Dance the night away and see in the New Year with live band, DIZZY HEIGHTS. Tickets £12.50 (minimum age 14) available from: brookfieldvpa@gmail.com or from any Village Councillor. Bar/Raffle.

NEW DANCE CLASS COMING SOON TO BROOKFIELD! Fancy learning to dance? Well, here’s your chance! We look forward to welcoming Ballroom Basics with Stewart & Jane Wilson who will start their classes in Ballroom and Latin in the Village Hall on Thursday 10 January 2019. Beginners: 7pm – 8pm and Intermediate: 8pm – 9pm. In addition, a Mixed Ability class will be held on a Saturday morning from 11am to 12.30pm. For further information, please contact Stewart (07710 464969) or Jane (07729 624798) or email:ballroombasics@live.co.uk e-mail: brookfieldvpa@gmail.com | web: www.brookfieldvillage.org.uk | Facebook: www.facebook.com/brookfieldvillage.org | Twitter: @Brookfieldvpa

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

Audrey Doig, Scott Kerr, Alison Jean Dowling, James Sheridan | Advice Surgeries: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/councillors ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Community Council ...

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings.

BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 2nd Thursday at 7.30pm February, April, June, August, October and December.

HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wednesday at 7.30pm | houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.co.uk

Community Halls to Let ...

Brookfield, Village Hall. Tel: 335562 Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 331488 Houston, Compass Centre. Tel: Gillian Peters - 07879 407574 or 01505 613759.

Linwood Masonic Hall. Tel: 07825 222944

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Winter Work Outs!

Winter is definitely here with the dark nights and the wind and rain! It is the time of year when it can be so much more tempting to snuggle up in front of the TV with a cup of tea instead of heading out to the gym or out for that run!

DANCE

SPORTS

Seasons come and go, so what you need to remember is the winter doesn’t last forever and when the spring and summer roll around again you don’t want to be kicking yourself for having stopped exercising in the winter months!

Adult Jazz Class

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton

So, here are some ways to help you continue hitting your fitness goals over the winter months:

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

1. Invest in winter clothing. There is nothing worse than going out for a run and being freezing or not being able to feel your fingers. Invest in warm activewear that will stop that chill going right through you when outdoors.

2. Make a plan. A lack of planning leads to a lack of exercise. Don’t try and wing it as this is just setting you up to fail. Plan in advance – sit down on a Sunday night and decide what you are going to do and when. Then stick to it!

3. Stay inside. Can you switch your training to indoors? Instead of an outdoor run can you head to the gym and use the treadmill. Or can you switch your cardio runs to indoor HIIT training over the winter. With online personal training widely available you don’t even need to leave your house!

4. Book a trainer. If you know someone is waiting for you, you are more likely to go! It is often enough of a motivator over the winter months to keep your training and fitness on track. If not pushing you harder to improve!

5. Get a workout buddy. Grab a friend and train together. The nights won’t seem as dark and lonely if you have someone to chat to on your evening walk or run! It will reduce the chance of you skipping a workout when you don’t really feel like it.

Winter comes whether we like it or not, so a shift in mindset to embrace the cold weather and work with it instead of against it, won’t halt your progress.

Lesley Handley, FitSmart Fitness Ltd.

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information.

Mondays - Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, 7.30pm

Mondays - Bridge of Weir, 11.30am / 1.45pm

Tuesdays - Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

Mondays - Bridge of Weir, 10am

Adult & Pre School Ballet Class Bishopton Belles Line Dancing

Tuesdays - Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30pm - 8.30pm

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

Fitsteps with Jen

Monday - Kilmacolm Guide Hut, Woodrow Ave 6.30pm - 7.30pm Strictly inspired dance/fitness class that allows you to learn the basics of ballroom and latin style in a fun environment. All welcome. Call Jennifer 07709 340675 or f: @ fitstepswithjennifer.

Boogie Effect with Jen

Saturday - Kilmacolm Guide Hut, Woodrow Ave 9.10am - 10.00am A unique dance based fitness class, bringing together the heart-pumping fun of boogie with the strength and conditioning effects of dance techniqes to create long, lean, strong and healthy bodies that aren’t just the privilege of the pros! All welcome. Call Jennifer 07709 340675 or f: @fitstepswithjennifer

ATHLETICS

Wednesdays - Inverclyde Academy, Greenock, 6.30pm - 8pm

Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005.

Birkmyre Rugby Club, Kilmacolm Sundays - Youth Rugby Section, 11am 1pm www.pitchero.com/clubs/birkmyre

KEEP FIT Zumba Light

Mondays - St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm, 10am Suitable for all fitness levels. Tel: 07505 126416 for more information.

Move it or Lose it! FABS Fitness -

more than just a Fitness Class for the over 60’s.

Come and join the fun! To check availability please contact Fiona on 07811 766672.

Tuesdays - Cargill Hall, BoW, 10.30am Tuesdays - West Burn Church, Greenock 2pm Thursdays - Old Library, Kilbarchan, 2.30pm

Pilates classes

Mondays & Thursdays, 7pm

MARTIAL ARTS

Mondays - Kilellan Halls Houston 6.15pm 7.15pm & 7.30pm - 8.30pm

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands Primary, Linwood Mondays & Thursdays - 7pm - 8pm/8pm - 9pm www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

PA5 0LD Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6pm

Call 07951 365166 for details.

Paisley Pirates have a busy schedule in the run up to Christmas. They are at home to Aberdeen Lynx at Braehead Arena on Saturday 1st December, the match starting at 6.30pm, with further home games against Kirkcaldy Kestrels (Sunday 16th December at 5pm) and, finally, North Ayrshire Wild (Saturday 22nd December at 6.30pm), before taking a break over the festive period.

Falun Dafa practice

The club is offering massive discount packages to groups attending matches and more details can be obtained by emailing paisleypirates@gmail. com.

5-a-side Football

If YOUR club is looking to give your members a Christmas treat with a difference, get in touch with the Pirates, who’ll be happy to arrange a discounted deal which won’t break the bank.

Greenock Hockey Club

Mondays - St Machars Church Hall, Bridge of Weir 9.30am & 10.40am. Kilmacolm Community Centre 6.30pm

Kilbarchan Athletic Club - On-X, Linwood

Taekwon-Do - Johnstone Sports Complex

Paisley Pirates

Gryffe Badminton

Thursdays - Port Glasgow Library 5pm - 7pm With five gentle exercises, Falun Dafa is an ancient self-cultivation practice based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance.

FOOTBALL

Tel Yvonne 07786 224367 or yvonne@ clydephysiotherapy.co.uk

For more information or to book a place call Katie on 07972 474965.

Wednesdays - Kilmacolm Community Centre - 7.30pm - 8.30pm.

For more information or to book a class call Jennifer Sloan 07731 303709 or email jennifermcghee@hotmail.co.uk

Hatha Yoga Classes

Mondays - Tweedie Halls, Linwood, 10.00am to 11.00am Wednesdays - St.Columba Church Hall, Bridge of Weir Road entrance 6.30pm to 8.00pm.

Suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Anyone interested in joining us please contact me at: janicestewart02@gmail. com.

Mondays - Powerleague Paisley, 6pm

Tel: Jim on 01505 874215; or jimbretherton@ aol.com

Football Training - Johnstone High School Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6pm - 9pm Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details.

Advertise your regular classes here for £20 for 4 months - contact our office for full details on 01505 613340 or pop us an email to: info@advertizer.co.uk

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Kilmacolm Golf Club

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Junior AGM “The Junior AGM and Prize Giving was held at the club on Sunday 4th November. There was a great turnout of our junior golfers, their family and friends.

Our Junior Convenor Lynda Bradley led the meeting and Vice Captain Steven Parson and Newton Shield manager Jim Mackie presented the many awards, trophies and prizes. The final awards, presented to the two outstanding players, were the Rookie of the Year to young Alfie Hammond and the Outstanding Junior Player of the Year Romy Erskine. Romy has won competitions at club, county and national level and achieved her Scottish debut in a U14/16 friendly match against Wales.

Kilmacolm Golf Club - Ladies Lady Captains Fun Final Swing was held on Thursday 18th October and played as a Tri-am over 10 holes. Stella Bowie, Janette Dunsmore and Judy Scholes were the worthy winners.

This concluded a very successful year for the many talented juniors of the club and we look forward to following their progress in the years ahead.”

Huge thanks to Lynda for all her hard work this year with the young juniors and to Jim for his endless energy and support for the Junior Newton Shields Team.

Kilmacolm Golf Club - Gents Dinner Ninety gentlemen of Kilmacolm Golf Club had a fantastic time at their annual dinner and prize giving on Friday 16th November. Hosted by their first female captain and eith wonderful guest speaker Hazel Irvine.

Erskine Golf Club Ladies’ Section

Picture left to right: John Baillie -Chairman, Hazel Irvine, Jane McDonald -Captain, Stephen Parsons- Vice Captain

Vicky Tierney (on left) from Maggie’s Glasgow being presented with a cheque from Lisa Paterson for £1,074.15 at our End of Season Gathering in Erskine.

Gleddoch Ladies Golf Club Championship The ladies golf Champion this year is Roisin Black.

She was presented with her trophy at the Prizegiving Dinner by the captain Shirley Back.

Traditionally, the Lady Captain, chooses a charity to fundraise for during her year and I chose Maggie’s: Home of Cancer Care.

We raised a total of £2,148.30 which was shared equally between Maggie’s Glasgow and Maggie’s Lanarkshire. I am extremely proud of the ladies’ section which has approximately 60 members.

Erskine Golf Cheque for £1,074.15 being presented to Club warmly welcomes new Ruth Zokas (second from right) of Maggie’s members and can be contacted Lanarkshire. on 01505 862302.

The ladies enjoyed a delicious meal, followed by the presentation of prizes, and a team quiz.

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The Advertizer

Castle Semple Sailing Club Annual Prize Giving Castle Semple Sailing Club held their annual prize giving in the McKillop Hall to coincide with the annual Village Ceilidh, so that after the prize giving people were able to join in the ceilidh or ...... a few drifted off to the Brown Bull...

Thanks were given to Paul O’Neill (O’Neills of Paisley) for all the engraving on the trophies and glasses and to Steve C for organising the photos (courtesy of Alex Workman) and to Steve D for getting the all important drinks. Once the “usual suspects” returned from the Brown Bull the prize giving commenced and short work was made of the red wine....

Mark Simmonds Commodore Prize 2018

Janet Gordon was thanked and presented with a bouquet for her duties as Race Officer during the year (and for putting up with us). Even though she was conspicuous by her absence, Alan’s wife Eleanor was also given a bouquet and some wine in appreciation of her regular supply of delicious cakes.

Janet Gordon - Race Officer Mark Simmonds was awarded the Commodore Prize for 2018 as the person who had contributed the most to the Club during the year. Mark had given up a huge amount of his free time to help with the cadets compete at events outside of the Club and also with setting up a new Club Website and forming a Club Project Team.

Sandy Wito - Best Newcomer Mark was presented with a FREE sweatshirt - bearing the words Sandy Wito was awarded the prize “I’m a Freebie” - those people who for best newcomer. attended the Cadet event back in Other prize winners are listed August at Loch Tummel Sailing below: Club will appreciate the significance Primary and Secondary Road Race of this (I am still subjected to weekly WWWPS (A) This years Road Race took place at the On-X sports centre and supported comments about the fact that I 1 Doug McQuilken and Pamela Hunter

by Kilbarchan athletic club. 220+ runners completed secondary event and Enterprise received a free hoodie at the event 720+ pupils finishing for the primary event.

2 Brian Young and Heather Evans RS and no one else did...…)

Vision 3 Angus Winchester Vortex

Hockey league Round 1

WWWPS (B) 1 Doug McQuilken and Pamela Hunter Enterprise 2 Angus Winchester Vortex 3 Jon Hasler Vago Winter Series 1 Brian Young and Heather Evans RS Vision 2 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14 and laser 3 Angus Winchester (Tony FitzGerald) RS800/Vortex/EPS Spring Series Sunday Jim Gordon Trophy 1 Jon Hasler Vago/topper 2 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 3 Hugh Russell Solo/GP14 Spring Series Wednesday John Storrie Trophy 1 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 2 Angus Winchester Vortex 3 Hugh Russell Solo Summer Series Sunday Paper Shop Trophy 1 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14 2 Angus Winchester EPS and Vortex 3 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision Summer Series Wednesday 1 Angus Winchester Vortex 2 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 3 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14 Autumn Series Sunday 1 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 2 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14/ laser 3 Hugh Russell Solo/Phantom

This year’s hockey league got off to a flyer up at Gryffe High this month with nearly 100 pupils competing over the S1-2 and S3-6 fixtures. Next up is our first ever junior indoor series which takes place at the Lagoon over the next 3 months!

Brian Young, Angus Winchester & Alan Falconer Autumn Series Wednesday 1 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14 2 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 3 Angus Winchester Vortex/EPS Asymmetric Cup Sponsored by Brian Young and Alan Falconer 1 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 2 Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne Hobie 405 3 Steve Cochrane and Heather Evans RS Vision Commodore Cup 1 Angus Winchester Vortex 2 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision 3.Jon Hasler and Alice Patterson RS Vision Ian Brown Trophy Sponsored by Ian Brown Motors 1 Angus Winchester Vortex 2 Arthur Logan and Iain Hardy GP14 3 Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision

S3-4 Badminton

66 pupils from 7 high schools played over 200 matches this week to find out who the top players in Renfrewshire! A great day of competition with an excellent standard of play!

S3-6 Volleyball league

Our hugely popular senior volleyball league started at Renfrew last month with 9 teams competing, playing 36 games in less than 2 hours!! With the league growing quickly each year the quality of play has gone through the roof with many of the players now competing in junior national squads and local clubs!

Regional Hockey teams

For the first time, Renfrewshire have entered a boys and girls senior team into this years Scottish Hockey Aspire Cup. Both matches were played on the week of the 12th November with the girls heading to Aberdeen Grammar and the boys taking on High School of Glasgow.

Move it or Lose it!

Move it or Lose it! classes have been very busy recently.

Not only are our members increasing in number but we’ve also helped to raise £1,000,000 for the Charity, Breast Cancer Now. Thank you to everyone who donated.

Cucina Minucci Trophy Sponsored by Cucina Minucci 1 Peter Collings and Ally RS200 2 Jon Hasler and Alice Patterson RS Vision 3 3rd place - Brian Young and Alan Falconer RS Vision

We celebrated Diwali with a little Bollywood Dance routine and the highlight was when members from Bridge of Weir, Kilbarchan and Paisley classes came together to enjoy an afternoon at the Kings Theatre in Glasgow to see Summer Holiday!

The O’Neil GP14 Trophy Steve Davison and Dawn Kyne GP14

If you would like to join the fun and make new friends, go to http://www. moveitorloseit and pop in your postcode under Find a Class.

We were swaying in our seats as we sang our hearts out. We gave up counting the number of Sit to Stand exercises we managed throughout the afternoon!

We would like to wish all our members a very Merry Christmas and a Fit, Healthy and Happy New Year!

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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Ranfurly Castle Golf Club Gents The Gents Annual Dinner & Presentation of prizes was held on Friday 26th October. There was a good attendance to congratulate this seasons prize winners with Andrew Cunningham in particular collecting multiple pieces of silverware. After dinner speaker Willie Alan delivered a superb 30 minute set and we thank Alastair Frood (Captain Ranfurly Castle Golf Club) and Lyall Campbell (Captain Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club) for delivering some kind words. It was also a pleasure to have Jane McDonald (Captain Kilmacolm Golf Club) in attendance and we wish both clubs all the very best for the remainder of the season.

Lochwinnoch Golf Club Seniors Team Captain Hugh Gilmour and assistant George B. Frew proudly display the Clyde Coast Senior League Trophy after winning this years competition by the narrowest of margins of 1 game, just pipping Greenock Whinhill GC. Having just lost out to Whinhill by the same margin, last year, it is particularly pleasing to win the trophy this year and we look forward to defending our title in 2019 9 clubs participate in the league and it is an ideal opportunity to give senior golfers the chance of playing competitive match play in a friendly set up.

Further thanks to club member Don Bremner who delivered a briefing to members on the “2019 Rules of Golf” and the pending changes. Over 35 members attended with both ladies and gents finding the presentation useful and informative. Congratulations to Vikki Rennie who won the quiz afterwards.

There’s a busy Festive Calendar planned and we look forward to seeing our members in and around the club soon.

Ranfurly Castle Ladies The Ladies at Ranfurly Castle Golf Club have enjoyed quite a bit of success in the Renfrewshire Ladies County Golf competitions this year.

Jan Macnab was the winner of the Irvine Trophy at the County Championships played at Haggs Castle in April and in August Jan and partner Allison Murray won the County Greensomes played at Fereneze. Nancy MacGadie and Evy MacGregor were runners up. In August Anne Judge won the County Challenge Rosebowl final played at Cathcart Castle. In July Pat Pennel won the medal played at Renfrew and in August Joy McLeod won the medal played at Bonnyton.

Beatson Cancer Charity at Old Ranfurly Golf Course To celebrate his 30th year of recovering from Cancer, Frank Morrison ran a hugely successful charity golf event on the 5th August at Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club to raise funds for the Beatson Cancer Charity.

Nearly 100 golfers participated on the day and enjoyed great weather and opportunities to win some excellent prizes. After playing 18 holes, everyone returned to the Club House for dinner, auction and raffle. The final amount raised came to £13,021.41.

A big thank you to the Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club for hosting the event and all the sponsors who generously donated prizes for the competition and auction.“

The Final Swing was played at the Castle on 17th October over 12 holes, on a dry day, with the greens in perfect condition.

The winner was Anne Gordon with 22 points and a better inward half.

On 24th October 49 Ladies enjoyed a very good night at the Annual Dinner.

After a first class meal the Medal and Charity Fun Competition prizes were presented by Lady Captain Marion Munro.

We are now on countdown to Christmas and Santa will be visiting the Club on 9th December for breakfast. The children will be able to build their own pancake breakfast and enjoy party games. The fun starts at 9am and Mum and Dad are welcome to come and enjoy breakfast while watching the fun.

Bookings can be made at the Club.

The Ladies would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy Xmas and a Good New Year and look forward to a good golfing season in 2019.

Keep up to date with all the events this festive season at

www.advertizer.co.uk

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The Advertizer CHILDCARE Houston registered childminders.

For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 01505 614925

TRADES AND SERVICES

Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders.

P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 01505 873839.

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

TUITION

SITUATIONS VACANT

MISCELLANEOUS PROPERTY TO LET

BUSINESS

ADVERTISING RATES TRADES/SERVICES/PROPERTY/CARS BOXED AD

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PHOTO

£7.75* (car sales only)

* Prices subject to VAT The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977 - the Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

ADVERTISING RATES PRIVATE SALES ONLY UP TO £500 FREE £501 to £1000 £5.00 OVER £1000 Call for details MAXIMUM 40 words Email your items to info@advertizer.co.uk or fill in our online form at www.advertizer.co.uk

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

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December 2018

ITEMS FOR SALE BABY EQUIPMENT Child’s high chair excellent condition.

Folds for storage.

Ideal for grandparents. £15 or any reasonable offer. Tel: 01505 340407.

Potty Chair Mothercare red & pink, VGC, £5. Tel: 07720 299588.

CLOTHES & SHOES Child’s Mountain Warehouse walking boots. Size 10. £10.

Tel: 01505 614244.

Selection of gents suits, 40” chest 34”waist 31” leg in various colours. £30-£40 per suit, free tie with every suit.

Very good condition. Tel: 07860 408403.

Cool girls skiing jackets & trousers + ski gloves, age 5 and age 6. VGC. £20 each.

Tel: 07720 299588.

Brand new with tags girls pink TRESPASS jacket. Age 3-4. £15. Tel: 07887 506042.

Genuine. NEW - Gloverall ladies original Duffle Coat. Quality garment. Camel size 18 Superb classic style Suit sizes 14 - 18. Leather with spare horn toggles. Smoke & pet free home. Tags still attached. £195. Tel: 07984 483524 or magillies@hotmail.co.uk Naturalizer ladies shoes low wedge flat brown real leather. £18. Tel: 07856 610671.

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN Edinburgh crystal Decanter (boxed). Unwanted present.

Great Christmas present £30. Tel: 01505 842558.

John Lewis Curtain Rod, extends to 304cm when one piece is measured its 152cm. All Fixture and fittings included. £15. Tel: 01505 872813.

John Lewis Bronze Curtain Rod, extends to 304cm, one piece measures 152cm. All fixtures and fittings included. £20.

Tel: 01505 872813.

Standard Lamp from B&Q. Height from top of shade 161cm. £12. Tel: 01505 872813.

John Lewis Shaggy Rug. (L) - 176cm x (W) 123cm. £12.

Tel: 01505 872813.

Chrome and glass TV stand.

L: 80cm / D: 40cm /D: 50cm. £15 or any reasonable offer.

Tel: 01505 340407.

Whirlygig washing line, hardly used. Tel: 01505 705003.

Bubble fountain, cream coloured, diameter 55cms, height 18cms. Full working order. Tel: 01505 705003.

2 Marks & Spencer 2 seater armchairs.

Excellent condition, as good as new.

Cost £1,000 each would sell for £150 each, collection required.

Te l : 0 1 5 0 5 872213.

t: 01505 613340

Beautiful Marks & Spencer mahogany coffee table.

Excellent condition as good as new. Cost £750 sell for £100. Tel: 01505 872213.

6 beautiful Edinburgh crystal “flute glasses” (boxed).

Unwanted present. Bargain £30. Tel: 01505 842558.

Large gold tones Silky Shag Pile Rug - 5ft x 8ft. Excellent condition. £50. Tel: 07784 256016.

2 reclining Arm Chairs, maroon fabric. Excellent condition. £75 each or £120 for the pair.

Tel: 01505 872366.

ELECTRICAL & GAS 5 Sony speakers. £28. T: 07856 610671.

Gaggia Classic Expresso heat and froth milk for cappuccino drinks. Very good condition with double and single shot filters. Coffee tamper, stainless steel milk jug. Happy to demonstrate operation easy to clean. £70.

T: 01505 613992.

Nokia sky box with remote control. £15. T: 07856 610671.

PETS Pet carrier voyageur 100. 48cm x 30cm x 28cm. £5. Tel: 01505 612244.

SPORTS Raleigh Savanna all terrain bike. Alloy 15 inch frame with 26 inch alloy wheels, rims & hubs. Suntour front wheel suspension and adjustable Avenir comfort saddle & suspension seatpost, 18 speed handlebar mounted Shimano gear change, colour light blue metallic/silver decals. As new condition.

Suitable for lady or gent. £150. Tel: 01505 329971.

Maxi-Challenge - Maxi Climber.

Used twice - Bought Argos £130 accept £75. Make ideal Xmas present for the Gym buddy in your life! Tel: 01505 325211.

Ladies golf clubs - Almost new, Jack Nicklaus Golden Bear brand, full matching set and bag. Set contains, driver, 3 & 5 wood and 4 & 5 hybrid all with covers. 6,7,8,9 irons and pitching wedge. Also sand wedge and putter never used. £125. Tel: 01505 691308.

Mens Ecco Golf Shoes - size 9.5 - 10 Biom Hybrid with Biom insoles. White/Black.

Excellent condition. Hardly worn. With box. Cost new £120, accept £60. Tel: 07766 630150.

Ridgeback MK20 Terrain child’s bike 20”. Pristine condition, as new. £75. Tel: 07876 526145.

Sportplus Fitness Trampoline with adjustable handle. As new with Instruction booklet.

Ideal Christmas present. Full width 126 cm. Trampoline size is 95cm and 32cm high. £40 ono. £40. Tel: 01505 341763.

57

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Exercise bike. V-Fit recumbent magnetic cycle. Good condition. £40. Buyer to uplift. Tel: 01505 320332.

Stunning Victoria Pendleton Ashwell bicycle suit 5’5” plus.

Virtually NEW & unused in gleaming condition. Eye catching black/gold chrome.

Ta n l e a t h e r s a d d l e & handlebars. Sold with extras. £195. Tel: 07984 483524 or email magillies@hotmail. co.uk NEW still in box with tags. Never used. KARRIMOR Junior Snow Boots Navy Blue and black Size 5. £25. Tel: 07984 483524.

Cycle gents Raleigh pioneer hybrid. 19 inch frame. 6 gears. £45 ono. Tel: 01505 612486.

Kids Microlite Scooter - excellent condition as good as new.

Ideal for child age 6 -10. Cost £100 would sell for £20. Tel: 01505 872213.

Smoby Rosy Doll, 63 cm long, in good condition with clothes. £10. Tel: 07720 299588.

Papo Wooden Knights Castle with various Papo Knight figures. £25 Tel: 07828 267073.

OTHER ITEMS Brand new steel car wheel 6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre 185/60 R15. Stored as spare wheel only. £80. Tel: 07736 067169.

A Large piece of foam measuring (L) 199cm x (W) 41cm x (D) 20. £10. Tel: 01505 872813.

SQA Higher Exams - Study Guides/How to Pass/Past Paper books - numerous books, various subjects. Very good condition. Mainly by Hodder Gibson in association with SQA and by Leckie & Leckie. Books: Maths x 6, Chemistry x 7, Physics x 2, Human Biology x 3, Biology x 1, Geography x 1. £3 each.

Tel: 01475 540309.

SQA Higher English Exam Study Guides/How to Pass/ Past Paper books - very good condition. 10 x various books by Hodder Gibson in association with SQA and by Leckie & Leckie. £3 each or take all 10 for £25. Tel: 01475 540309.

Study Guides/How to Pass & SQA Past Papers for National 5 Exams - very good condition; (Hodder Gibson in association with SQA). Books: Physics x 1, French x 1, Geography x 1, Chemistry x 1, Graph Com x 1. £3 each. Tel: 01475 540309.

Old British and German Reich coins (£15) and stamps (£10).

Tel: 07856 610671.

Vintage natural amber necklace cognac colour. £60. Tel: 07856 610671.

“Avenir” rear mounting cycle carrier. Will take 3 bikes.

Adjustable frame complete with fittings to suit most cars. £20. In as new condition. Tel: 01505 329971.

York Exercise Bike. Immaculate condition. £75. Tel: 07929 368068.

Lladro ornaments. Various.

Larger size. Girl with ducks, Mexican water carrier boy & girl. Girl with flowers. Happy for viewing. VGC. Selling £50 - £70 each or £200 for all.

Tel: 07810 701071.

WANTED ITEMS Looking for a few Reebok Steps.

Tel: 07505 126416.

Cash paid for Music CDs ( a few or a lot ). Tel: 0141 882 5594 or 07765 115347.

Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710 777571.

Local lily grower requires the use of a greenhouse/polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

Westclox Big Ben alarm clock.

Tel: 07756 981917

FREE

send your photos to info@ advertizer. co.uk

CYCLE

Toddler Bicycle helmets (4448 cm) pink (have two), suits appr. 1-5 yrs old, GC. Toilet trainer seat, white, VGC, (have two).

Peppa Big DVDs - 8 in total. Tel: 07720 299588.

CONTENT OF THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER The Gryffe Advertizer is a magazine published by The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd

Advertising throughout The Gryffe Advertizer:

Definitions: “Standards” means the British Code of Advertising Practice and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act, 1968, the Consumer Credit Act 1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisement (Disclosure) Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements.

It is hereby agreed that: • The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising.

• All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards.

• Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion of the Publisher.

• The Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear.

• In the event of any error, misprint or omission by the Publisher in the printing of an Advertisement, the Publisher will either re-insert the advertisement, adjust the cost or provide a refund. This does not apply if the Advertisement has been approved by the Advertising Client prior to publication. The total liability of the Publisher for such an occurrence shall not exceed the amount of a full refund for that particular Advertisement.

• The Advertising Client agrees to indemnify the Publisher in respect of all costs, damages or other charges falling upon the Publisher as the result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the publication of the Advertisement, or any one or more of the series of Advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions supplied to the Publisher.

• Readers are reminded that when purchasing items or services advertised in the Publication that the Publisher cannot be held in any way responsible for the quality or correctness of the items or services included in the Advertisement.

Editorial throughout The Gryffe Advertizer: The opinions of the Contributors to this Publication are not necessarily the official views of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to edit or refuse any material submitted for publication.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 56-59 CLASSIFIED_291 DECEMBER 18.indd 57

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58

The Advertizer January ‘19 Issue

BY CATEGORY Accountants & Financial

Electricians

Home Improvements

Property, Sales & Let

Affluent Financial Planning . . 22 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 25 F Christie Accounting . . . . . . 24 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1

Delta Electrical Services . . 28 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Architectural Services

Fencing

CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 35

Automotive Services

Firewood & Logs

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 59

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 19 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 28 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 34

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 32 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . 60 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . Ed Scotland’s Bath Company . . . . 45

Bathrooms

Funeral Services

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 56 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 37

Bedrooms

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 15

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 35

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 48 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 14 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 28 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 55 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 27

Business Services Hutton Creative Design . . . . . 25

Care Services & Homes Home Instead Senior Care . . . 21

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 3 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 18 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 6

Computer, Web & Graphic Design ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Hutton Creative Design . . . . . 25

Council Notices The Media Shop Scotland Ltd . . 14

Driving Instructors AL Stewart - Driving School . . 30 Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7

Education

Garage Doors & Gates Garden Service & Design 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 32 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 35 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 34,45 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 32 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 10,10 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 33 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 R Williams Tree Services . . . 34 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 34 West of Scotland Landscape . . 34

Gas & Heating Services Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 35 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 55 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 44 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 43

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 44 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 5 Brite Dental Bridge of Weir . . 9 Celtic Shamanic Practitioner . . 17 Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 8 Katy @ Kilmacolm . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,60 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 20 Sole Therapies . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Home Hardware Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,51

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 29

Home Interiors Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 15 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 28 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . Ed

Home Security Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 12

Joiners A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 4 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 48 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 14 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 30 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 55 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 15 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 14 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 55

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Removals @ease Removals & Transport . . 26 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Retail Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,51 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 41 The Sourcery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 12 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 27

Solicitors Affinity Family Law Experts . . 3 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

Special Occasions ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Stoves Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 28

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 59

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 49 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Travel Agents

Painters & Decorators

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

A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 18 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 16 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 32 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 35 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 R Williams Tree Services . . . 34 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Pest Control RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 20

Pet Services & Training Margarets Mill Kennels . . . . . 39 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 39 Waggys Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . 60

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 12 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 48 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18

Plumbers Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 35 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 55 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 41

Tree Surgeon

TV & Satellite Clearline Aerial & Satellite . . 5 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 37 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 18

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 3 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 18 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 17

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Window Scene Scotland . . . . . . 60

Contact us 1st Floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN t: 01505 613340

m: 07731 923970

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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.

Deadline: 12th Dec. Delivery: 27th Dec.

A TO Z @ease Removals & Transport . . 26 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 32 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 18 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 35 ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Affinity Family Law Experts . . 3 Affluent Financial Planning . . 22 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 AL Stewart - Driving School . . 30 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 44 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 5 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 Brite Dental Bridge of Weir . . 9 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 12 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 12 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 15 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 35 Celtic Shamanic Practitioner . . 17 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 25 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Clearline Aerial & Satellite . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 5 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 16 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . 60 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 34,45 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 25 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Delta Electrical Services . . 28 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 37 DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 4 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 3 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 F Christie Accounting . . . . . . 24 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 18 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 8 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 35 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,51 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 32 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 49 Gowanlea Nurseries . . . . . . . . . 10 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 59 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Home Instead Senior Care . . . 21

Pick up a Copy Bishopton: Woodrow’s Store, Library, May’s Coffee Shop 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: Post Office, Campbell’s, Newsagents, Bobbins,

Hutton Creative Design . . . . . 25 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 55 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 48 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 14 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 37 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 59 Katy @ Kilmacolm . . . . . . . . . . 44 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 35 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,60 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 18 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 33 Margarets Mill Kennels . . . . . 39 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 17 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 30 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 35 Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 19 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 43 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 20 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 28 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . Ed Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 6 Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 R Williams Tree Services . . . 34 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 20 Scotland’s Bath Company . . . . 45 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 39 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 Sole Therapies . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 29 Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 55 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 41 The Media Shop Scotland Ltd . . 14 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 41 The Sourcery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 27 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Waggys Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . 60 West of Scotland Landscape . . 34 Window Scene Scotland . . . . . . 60

Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, Library, Community Centre Lochwinnoch: Keystore, Library, Dolce Vita, Castle Semple Centre

Deadline date for our January 2019 issue - Wednesday 12th December - you don’t want to miss it!!

56-59 CLASSIFIED_291 DECEMBER 18.indd 58

22/11/2018 15:00:58

December 2018

t: 01505 613340

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

5599

New MOT standards improving our air quality The number of cars failing emissions tests has more than doubled since the new MOT introduced stricter emission rules on 20 May 2018.

Following changes to the MOT test on 20 May 2018, more than 744,592 cars have failed the emissions test. The cars have either been taken off the road or fixed, helping to improve air quality. This compares to 350,472 cars failing the emissions test during the same period in 2017.

Since 20 May 2018, a vehicle gets a ‘major fault’ if the MOT tester: • can see smoke of any colour coming from the exhaust • finds evidence that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been tampered with - this captures and stores exhaust soot to reduce emissions from diesel cars

A ‘major fault’ means you need to repair the car immediately, and it then needs to pass an MOT retest.

You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT. Since 20 May 2018, a total of 238,971 diesel cars and 505,721 petrol cars have failed the new emissions test. This compares to 58,004 diesel cars and 292,468 petrol cars during the same period in 2017.

The new test has also seen a 448% increase in the number of diesel vans failing. These have increased from 3,585 in 2017 to 19,648 over the same period in 2018.

Regular maintenance The MOT is a once-a-year health check for vehicles. However, you must keep your vehicle safe to drive (roadworthy) all year round.

You should get your car checked if you think there’s a problem with the engine, and not wait until the MOT. This will not only save you money from the cost of an MOT retest, but will also help improve the environment.

Improving air quality Poor air quality is the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK. It’s known to have more severe effects on vulnerable groups, for example, the elderly, children and people already suffering from pre-existing lung and heart conditions.

Conditions caused or made worse by air pollution include: • chronic heart disease • asthma • chronic bronchitis

• strokes

In July 2018, the Department for Transport published its ‘road to zero strategy’. This sets out how the government will support the transition to zero-emission road transport and reduce emissions from conventional vehicles.

Roadworks and closures

For a list of local road works requiring diversions, Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TTRO), road closures, special events and Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) Renfrewshire please, visit the Tell Me Scotland website: •

https://www.tellmescotland.gov.uk/notices/renfrewshire

This strategy supports the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ plan to improve air quality by reducing nitrogen dioxide levels in the UK.

The lists won’t always show works being carried out by the utility companies such as Scottish Power or BT, except those which could cause major disruption. To see these, visit the Scottish Roadworks Register:

Gareth Llewellyn, Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Chief Executive, said: “DVSA’s priority is to protect everyone from unsafe vehicles and drivers. We are committed to making a real difference to those in society whose lives and health are blighted by poor air quality.

Transport Scotland are responsible for the trunk roads in Renfrewshire and across Scotland. For a list of road works on their network, visit the Traffic Scotland website:

Since introducing the new tighter MOT emissions test in May, nearly 750,000 vehicles have been taken off the road or fixed.”

In the first 6 months of the new MOT, almost 16 million vehicles have taken the test. The overall failure rate for petrol cars (34.7%) and diesel cars (33.2%) has remained steady since the changes were introduced. They were 35.7% and 33.8% respectively in 2017.

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https://www.roadworksscotland.org/

http://trafficscotland.org/

The lists show expected start dates, end dates and duration of events that may affect routes. However, the information may change due to unforeseen circumstances and because of this cannot be guaranteed. We apologise for any inconvenience caused but cannot accept liability for any such inconvenience.

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