294 March 19 - Gryffe Advertizer

March 2019 No.294

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Nosey calf by Ross Samson

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your LOCAL community magazine | March 2019 No. 294

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A community magazine delivered FREE to homes in the Gryffe area

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Advertizer distributed to: • Bishopton • Bridge of Weir • Brookfield • Houston • Howwood• Kilbarchan • Kilmacolm • Langbank• Lochwinnoch • Quarriers 01+52 COVER_294 MARCH 19.indd 1

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Advertising Feature

With Spring now nearly here our attention turns to pressure washing and softwashing ready for Summer ahead. With over 20 years experience of exterior cleaning systems, we are your local qualified and experienced cleaning company with the state of the art equipment, knowledge and experience to achieve the best results. Whether it is soft-washing moss on roofs, algae from render, pressure washing decking, patios, monobloc drives or anything in between, please give us a call for free, friendly information on our services or for a free quotation.

01505 863 863

www.nutechcleaning.co.uk

This month

Spring is in the air! There are lambs in the fields (although still a bit chilly), spring flowers are peeping through and the clocks go forward. Yes, we may still get some snow just to keep us on our toes, but it is the start of longer and hopefully warmer days. It’ll soon be time to dust down the BBQ! Very exciting news in the athletics world as plans to build a state of the art athletics facility at Linwood’s On-X centre take a step forward. Renfrewshire councillors have backed a Community Asset Transfer to Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club which will allocate 4000sqm of land to the local club, with plans for a £1.3 million indoor facility to be built alongside the outdoor track and field facilities at Linwood.

Don’t miss out on the Gryffe Valley Rotary 10K run which takes place in May. The run takes place on country lanes between Houston, Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm, starting from Houston Public Park, for all abilities from serious runners to novices/joggers. Registration details are on p40.

And if you fancy trying the great sport of curling, there is a ‘Come & Try’ event organised for Wednesday 6th March at Greenacres Curling Club, near Howwood.

No previous experience is necessary and everyone is welcome. All equipment will be provided and it’s only £6 per person. Find out more on p42.

Now an established and popular annual event, Lochwinnoch’s Arts Festival will run from Friday 8th to Sunday 24th March. Beginning as a small, one day book festival, this event has grown over the years to become a multi week programme.

With well-known artists sharing their talent and experience, the Festival aims to offer a varied and inclusive programme of arts for all ages. Some events must be booked in advance, so get your skates on and get in touch if you fancy going along. Find out more details at http://lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk/ “OK Fest”, Kilmacolm’s 3rd Annual Festival of Sound, takes place from Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd March with a mix of musical events over the weekend. More details at http://kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk/okfest-2019/ Scone-noisseur of the world - what’s that you say? It’s the World Scone-making Championship being held in Lochwinnoch on Sunday 17th March.

Or pop along to a Pamper Night at Gryffe High School on Friday 22nd March from 7pm and help raise funds for the school while having a brilliant night out!

Places for some of the treatments will be limited so get your tickets soon!

It’s so encouraging to see local people making a difference. Among the many local groups making a huge difference to their communities, Lochwinnoch has set up a Community Development Trust which aims to support enterprises with social objectives, with benefits that are returned to the community. Part of this group is the Struthers Water Abstraction Project which hopes to bring money into the village from the sale of spring water from an area near the existing borehole. More information on this on p30.

Don’t forget the clocks change at the end of March. If you struggle to remember which direction time travels, there is an old saying, “Spring forward, Fall back” to help you.

Next deadline Friday 15 March!

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March 2019

Contents

local news...............4-11 finance & tech..... 12-15 what’s on ............. 16-21 village news......... 22-33 pet news .............. 34-35 outdoors............... 36-39 sport news ........... 40-43

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on the road .................43 school news..........44-47 business classified ... 48 sales & wants ............ 49 advertizer directory... 50 pick up a copy ........... 50 local history ............... 51

Contact us

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St Columba’s Gold Duke of Edinburgh Training Weekend at Lochgoilhead

RAMH Dinner & Dance 2019 Sponsored by Bridge of Weir Leather Join us at The Lynnhurst Hotel on Friday 26th April for our biggest night of the year - RAMH Dinner & Dance, proudly sponsored by Bridge of Weir Leather.

The evening will kick off with a red carpet arrival and fizz reception, followed by a delicious three-course meal and live entertainment! There will also be opportunities to chance your luck in our raffle, or bid on one (or more!) of our luxury auction lots.

Tickets are £40pp, or £350 for tables of 10!

All bookings/queries: jade.gallagher@ramh.org

Leading UK company pledges support for local charity Barr + Wray, a world leading provider of pool and spa design alongside water engineering, has pledged its support to St. Vincent’s Hospice by becoming headline sponsor for their hugely popular Strictly Come Prancing event this Spring.

St. Vincent’s Hospice’s award nominated event Strictly Come Prancing is now in its eighth year and will take place on Friday 15th March at Ingliston Country Club & Hotel, aiming to raise vital funds to support the work of the Hospice.

Thirteen couples have been training hard for several months, and will compete on the night to win the prestigious trophy by performing a series of dance routines to impress the judges and live audience. The variety of Tangos, Quick -Steps, Waltz’s and Sambas will all be danced by couples who started out as non-dancers.

St. Vincent’s Hospice is a specialist provider of palliative and Hospice care for Renfrewshire and beyond, supporting families and patients who have been impacted by life limiting conditions.

Operations Director for Barr & Wray, Lorne Kennedy, said: “Barr + Wray take great pleasure in supporting local charities on an annual basis. St. Vincent’s Hospice is a highly commendable charity, providing care for all. We admire the hard work, love and support that go in to every aspect of the charity from the In-Patient Unit to the Day Hospice and the Community Nurse Specialists. Not to mention the support provided not only to the patients but their families and loved ones. B + W are proud to sponsor St. Vincent’s Hospice and give a little towards helping such a worthy charity.”

The evening will be hosted by their very own ‘Brucie’ and ‘Tess’ and will also feature performances from previous winners, contestants and professional dancers. An audience of approximately 500 will watch this spectacular event, including family, friends and Hospice supporters, as well as our panel of expert judges and a special guest.

Senior Fundraiser for St. Vincent’s Hospice, Louise Strachan, said: “On behalf of everyone at St Vincent’s Hospice, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Barr & Wray for their continued support.

At St Vincent’s Hospice, we offer specialist palliative and Hospice care for people and families all across Renfrewshire and beyond who are impacted by life-limiting conditions. Every year we have to raise more than £1.1 million to offer the level of support that we do for the community, making sure we are offering the right care, in the right way, for anyone who needs it.

This simply wouldn’t be possible without the wonderful support of the community, and we truly cannot thank Barr & Wray enough. Their generosity and continued support will make such a huge difference to patients and families all around the community, at a time when they need it most.”

There are a very limited number of places left at what is sure to be a sell-out event. If you would like to purchase a ticket, support the hospice or be kept up to date with any fundraising events Email: info@svh.co.uk or call 07521 988488.

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Don’t forget - clocks go FORWARD 1 hour on 31st March!

Broken Double Glazing Unit or Misted Up Windows?

Advertising Feature

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Start-Up Street project is under way A cutting-edge project to bolster local businesses conceptualised by the council’s economic development team is now underway.

Chloe Wright

Start-Up Street is supporting companies looking to make the leap into their first commercial premises by adapting vacant councilowned units on Paisley’s George Street into a range of low-cost, high-quality business workspaces.

Each business will benefit from an on-site advisor, training space and a shared reception, with the space able to be rented for up to two years until they are ready to move to an alternative commercial space in Renfrewshire.

The project has been welcomed by local businesses, with a recent survey finding more than 80% were looking for subsidised space to grow, but faced barriers such as high costs and a lack of knowledge on the steps to take.

Textile designer Chloe Wright, founder of colour interior product company Loopy Lally Designs, said: “I work from home in the wee spare room, but I’m fast running out of space and from a professional perspective, I don’t want to be inviting people into my house. My business is growing and moving into new premises is the natural next step for me so Start-Up Street is coming at the perfect time.”

In an exciting development, Council staff are working closely with London Youth Support Trust, a charity which specialises in supporting young entrepreneurs from deprived backgrounds.

Ruth Cooper, Economic Development Manager, said: “Our Start-Up Street proposals were approved in December and are progressing well with the aim to open the premises by the summer.

“We’ve had lots of interest from businesses who can see the benefits it will bring and we’re meeting with colleagues from the London Youth Support Trust to look at how we can work together and help local businesses achieve long-term sustainability.”

If you know of a local business that could benefit, contact InCube Start-Up on 0300 300 1180 or email: incube@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Volunteers Needed Talk It Over Group Paisley Volunteer crèche workers needed for small peer support group based at Paisley Abbey. We offer a crèche enabling mums to take some time to meet with other mums affected by anxiety, loneliness and post natal depression. Term time only. Tuesdays from 10am - 12.15pm.

Kind, compassionate and friendly volunteers needed. Need to be able to set up room and create a welcoming environment. Keen on supporting new mums by caring for babies and toddlers. Full training offered. Commitment - once a month or fortnightly or more. Please contact for further information - Janette janette.a.mckenna@gmail.com Talk It Over Group Room, within Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley, PA1 1JG.

Thursday 21st March 6.45pm for 7pm Finger buffet

The Glynhill Hotel, Paisley Road, Renfrew An event to mark the Centenary of Suffrage Drama performed by Castlehead High pupils ‘Debate’ - four inspirational women Soroptimist International of Paisley would like to invite you to join them at an event to mark the centenary of women getting the vote RSVP including any dietary requirements to soroptimistspaisley@gmail.com or islaygolden@gmail. com President Jean Ramsay 07922 238330 We look forward to seeing you then

Save the Children Centenary Lunch Celebrating 100 years of putting Chilfren first.

Centenary Lunch for SaveThe Children in the Lynnhurst Hotel, Johnstone on 26th April, 12noon for 12.30pm. Tickets are £25 each and are available from Lyn Lang on 01505 873295 or Maureen Wells on 01505 873066.

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Inspiring Women

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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

Renfrewshire Foodbank works to combat poverty and hunger across Renfrewshire. We are currently seeking energetic, community-minded individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

To ensure we have a well-rounded and diverse Board we are particularly keen to hear from people with experience of: • Law and the legal system

• Social care and the benefits system

• Board administration However, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

The Board meets once per quarter and all members are expected to participate actively in its activities. Board members are also asked to attend and support the organisation’s volunteer and fundraising events.

If you share our belief that no-one in Renfrewshire should have to face going hungry, this is an excellent opportunity to provide leadership for the well-being of our community and local families.

To express an interest in this voluntary position, or for further information, please email: board@renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 8th March 2019 Renfrewshire Foodbank is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation SC044200 | Registered in Scotland

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Lilias Day 2109 Get involved in Lilias Day 2019 Last year we had a fantastic Lilias Day with our 50th year celebrations of the revival of Lilias Day. Plans are well underway to make the 51st year just as great. This years event will be held on Saturday 1st June and include another brilliant line-up of entertainment including our well established parade, charity stalls, arena entertainment, medieval village, battle re-enactment, food village, music tent, craft village, kids entertainment tent, zorbing, and much much more.

And if Lilias Day itself couldn’t get any better we now have Lilifest to extend the fun in lead up to Lilias Day!

It’s easy to get involved: Book a stall to raise funds for your local charity / organisation or take a pitch in our new craft village (local crafters only). With over 3,000 people attending the event, it is a great way to raise funds. Come along to the stall holders booking evening on Tuesday 12th March, 7pm - 9pm, Old library centre, Kilbarchan.

Advertise in our brochure. The Lilias Day brochure is delivered free to over 1,500 households in Kilbarchan and posted on our Facebook page with over

2,000 followers. If you wish to advertise in our brochure please email us at the email address below.

Take part in the Historic Parade. Costume fitting Sunday 17th March 12noon - 3pm, Old Library centre, Kilbarchan.

Decorate a float and join one of the best parades in Scotland!

Email us if you haven’t booked your yet. Numbers limited.

Nominate Miss Lilias 2019. If you, or someone you know would make an ideal Miss Lilias let us know before 10th March.

Decorate your house or join our new scarecrow competition! Details to follow.

And Let us know if you have an event in the village planned for the week before or after Lilias Day it can be included in the Lilifest line up.

Contact us at: info@liliasday.co.uk Check out: www.liliasday.co.uk or find us on facebook.

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Gryffe Valley Rotary Club - focusing on local people GRYFFE CAMERA CLUB PRIMARY SCHOOLS PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

How to take care of your eyes

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians “You can eat with false teeth but you can’t see with false eyes” highlights just how important our eyes are. As a population, we are living longer than ever before so we need to keep ourselves in the best condition possible, including our eyes.

Of course, some things we can’t do much about eg inherited genes, but we can make things better or worse depending on how we live our lives.

By doing the things we all know we should be doing (healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular exercise), we will be delaying or preventing some of the serious eye conditions related to high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. Simple things such as wearing UV-protecting sunglasses will also reduce the damage done to the eyes such as cataracts, eyelid disease and macular degeneration.

Protecting the eyes makes sense regarding DIY & gardening tasks, but should also be considered for sports. Cycling, to protect from loose stones or insects hitting the eyes. Squash, rugby, football etc to prevent direct impact (eg a squash ball is just small enough to fit between the protective bones surrounding the eye and can cause particularly serious injuries).

Helping the eyes when there is visual stress eg dyslexia – precision tinted overlays can make a huge difference to someone’s life. When glasses don’t help: options include prescription swimming goggles, contact lenses for gymnastics or golfing in the rain, or taking supplements to help those with dry macular degeneration.

Having regular eye tests is therefore essential. Not just to discuss the best options, but also to test for any potentially sight-threatening diseases – a lot of them don’t affect your sight until it’s too late. As always, prevention is better than cure.

John King had attended the presentations of Rotary prizes at each school. A display of the best prints was on show at our Club meeting on 6th February, introduced by Robert Chambers of the Gryffe Camera Club. Robert explained how the 162 entries from Houston, Bridge of Weir, St Fillan’s and Kilmacolm Primaries were each reviewed and a critique written to give back to the entrant. The best photographs were picked from each school to create a school panel of three.

These panels were then ranked and in 2019 Houston Primary emerged as the overall winner with Caitlin Paterson first, Beth McDonald second and Emma Shaw third. Each of the twelve finalists was given a prize, provided by Rotary which is keen to support the competition. Pictured here, Robert is holding up the winning panel. In thanking Robert, Andrew Macleman remarked on the quality of the photographs and complemented the Gryffe Camera Club on their work with the schools.

YOUTH SERVICES

Young Chef The club competition took place at the end of 2018 at Gryffe High School Food, Health and Technology Department.

Competitors from Gryffe High, St Benedict’s, and St Columba’s participated. The judges (Elizabeth Fairbairn, Joyce Beaton and Clair Kerr) assessed the competitors’ preparation, observed their practical skills and then sampled the products.

The winner was Phoebe Singer of Gryffe High, the Runner-up was Luke Russell of St Benedict’s and a Highly Commended for under 12s was awarded to Emma Ventham of St Columba’s. The prizes were sponsored by Gibb Stuart Home Hardware. Phoebe Singer went forward to represent the Club in the District Final in South Lanarkshire College, East Kilbride on Wednesday 23rd January.

Her preparations were assisted by Elizabeth Fairbairn and her “whites” were sponsored by The River Inn. Though unplaced in a closely fought contest Phoebe impressed with her cooking and with her interaction with the adults and other competitors … a credit to herself and those she represented.

Euroscola Shaun Sweeney of Gryffe High School travelled to Strasbourg on 27th January.

He will report back to the club later in the Rotary year.

Youth Speaks - the Club was represented in the District Intermediates finals on 3rd February by a team from St Columba’s - Laurie McDougall (Chairperson), Bronte Marritt (Speaker), Emma Ventham (Vote of Thanks) speaking on the subject “The Value of Art”. The team came in as very creditable runners-up.

YOUNG CARERS OUTINGS Gryffe Valley Rotary was pleased to give 60 Young Carers evenings out at the Experience, Hillington where they enjoyed Electric Karting, Laser shooting and an American Buffet. The final night, January 31st, coincided with Young Carers Awareness Day 2019. This year, Young Carers Awareness Day focused on the theme of mental health – linking in to the #CareForMeToo campaign.

Looking for someone local?

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Dental Implants

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner at Kilbarchan Dental Practice What are dental implants? Dental implants are a safe, wellestablished treatment to fit replacement teeth.

Most implants are titanium posts that are used to replace the root of a tooth with a crown or bridge fitted on top. Done well, they can be made to look and feel just like natural teeth.

Why should I get a dental implant? A dental implant is a fixed solution for one or more missing teeth, and can help restore both your smile and your quality of life. Implants safeguard your overall dental health. Replacing missing teeth is extremely important, as missing teeth cause bone loss which can age your face, and could potentially cause adjacent teeth to become loose too.

I have my own teeth, can I still get implants? You can have any number of teeth replaced with implants - from a single tooth attaching a crown to multiple teeth using a bridge.

Do I need a consultation? To ensure suitability a dentist will undertake an initial consultation to explain the process and discuss your options. An assessment will then be needed to ensure your gums are healthy and that there is enough healthy bone to place the implant.

What’s involved and does it hurt? Placing an implant is a straightforward process which can be completed under local anaesthetic. The procedure involves attaching the implant to the jawbone and, whilst you will not feel any pain at the time, you may feel some discomfort in the days after the procedure.

How long does it take? The implants will need three to six months to heal and integrate with your jaw bone to provide a solid support for the crown or bridge. Whilst some false teeth can be fitted at the same time as the implant most procedures do take several months to complete. Your dental team will go through a schedule and all your options with you.

How long do implants last? Much like natural teeth implants should last as long as you care for them and it is just as important to visit your dentist regularly for maintenance and checkups.

If you would like to find out more about dental implants you can book yourself in for a free consultation here at KDP. Just call us on 01505 704969 or visit our website at kilbarchandental.co.uk

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Weir Networking Our meetings are now held quarterly, on a Wednesday in Amaretto, Bridge of Weir. Breakfast starting at 9.30am. There is a cover charge of £5.

Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday 20th March 2019.

Following dates are June 12th, 11th September and 4th December.

Venue may change for later dates, so please check facebook page nearer time or email colin@magifilms.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you all.

New Tax Year...

New Opportunities

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd How quickly time flies, and another tax year is ending. This brings with it some important financial opportunities to act on before tax year end and once a new tax year begins. So, time to tidy up your finances – but what to consider?

1.

Maximise your pension contributions, especially if you are a higher or additional rate income taxpayer. You’ll get tax relief on your pension contributions at your highest income tax rate paid.

2.

Keep your Pension Annual Allowance – if you are a higher earner with total annual income of £110K or more, you could have a reduced pension allowance imposed on you, and it may result in a tax bill on any pension contributions you make above your reduced annual pension allowance.

Making a pension contribution to get your income below £110Kpa could be a smart move.

3.

Keep your tax-free personal allowance by keeping your income below £100K as you lose tax allowance when your income exceeds this. Consider making a pension contribution to reduce your taxable income.

4.

Recover child benefit by keeping your income below £50K if possible as child benefit is lost fully once earnings exceed £60Kpa. A pension contribution could help here.

5.

Boost your pension pot now, before you draw benefits flexibly in the future. Once you take flexible benefits from your pension, your pension annual allowance will reduce to only £4,000pa – so you won’t be able to make large pension contributions in the future.

6.

Consider exchanging some salary for a pension contribution to reduce your income tax bill and boost your retirement wealth.

7.

Tax shelter your wealth using tax free ISA accounts. You can shelter up to £20,000 each, so up to £40,000 for a couple.

8.

Use your Capital Gains allowance to take out investment profit from your investment funds. Each person can take £11,700 in profit this tax year, so up to £23,400 tax free!

9.

Use your personal savings allowance (and starting rate for savings if your income is low) to get tax free interest or offshore bond gains.

10. Recycle gains into more tax efficient alternatives such as ISAs or pension but beware using pension tax free cash to do so.

The great thing is that each new tax year gives you a new set of allowances, so you can do the above all over gains on 6th April 2019!

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

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Gryffe Valley Rotary Club - recent & coming events VALENTINE’S DINNER Fifty members and partners were present at the River Inn on Wednesday 13th February on the eve of Valentine’s Day. After a romantic introductory grace by Hugh Kerr and presentation of red roses to the ladies, everyone enjoyed a fine meal. Entertainment was provided by magician Douglas Cameron who moved around the tables performing his clever tricks and humour. Andrew Macleman was especially pleased that Douglas was as clever as he claimed in a final trick in which he found himself on the stage with an upturned glass of water on his head!

CHARITABLE DONATIONS At the business meeting on 6th February three donations were unanimously approved. The funds collected at Past President Chris Butlin’s funeral were topped up to £600 and divided equally between two recipients felt by members to be in line with Chris’ wishes, namely Angel Voices Choir in Kilmacolm and the Sailor’s Society of Scotland. The third donation, from the Rotary charity account, was £500 to the Scottish charity Marys Meals which every day, in some of the poorest countries in the world, provides more than one million children (now 1,425,413 every day) with a lunch at school. This donation was timed before 1st March in order to attract matching funding from UKAid, making a total of £1,000.

SPEAKER MEETINGS AT THE RIVER INN Wednesday 23rd January – Kingsley Wood “Solicitors for older people -Scotland” Kingsley Wood LLB NP has practiced in Kilmacolm since 1993. Kingsley Wood & Co are members of Solicitors for Older People - Scotland which is a group of Scottish Law firms dedicated to providing legal services to older people in a caring and sensitive way.

Kingsley proceeded to explain some of the “must-dos” for older people, including the need to make a Will; the importance of giving Power of Attorney to

people (usually partners and children) who can then act on your behalf in the event of your incapacity; preparing an Advance Directive (or “Living Will”) in which you state your end-of-life or treatment wishes; take advice on Care and paying for it (including what is included in the capital and income on which your contributions would be calculated); and finally Trusts and Equity Release.

After numerous questions President Andrew gave a vote of thanks for a serious but enjoyable talk.

Wednesday 30th January – Emma-Louise Livingston “The Dogs Trust” Emma-Louise is a “Supporter Relations Officer” at The Dogs Trust, a charity originally known as the National Canine Defence League, which came to prominence in 1978 when its slogan “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas” caught the public’s attention. The charity (https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/ our-centres/glasgow ) cares for 15,000 dogs each year. No healthy dog is ever destroyed. Most are re-homed within five weeks. Emma-Louise talked about the Canine Car Card scheme which ensures that The Dogs Trust will look after a dog after the owner’s passing. President Andrew thanked Emma-Louise for a very interesting and well-presented talk.

FUTURE EVENTS PRIMARY SCHOOL QUIZ - The quiz will take place on Tuesday 12th March at 7pm at the JG Fleming Bowling Club in Houston. The schools intending to take part are St Columba’s, Bridge of Weir and Houston, and possibly Lochwinnoch. Parents and supporters are especially welcome. Tea and coffee will be served.

GRYFFE VALLEY ROTARY 10K RUN –Sunday 19th May - Please save the date and plan your training. We are delighted that Arnold Clark will support the event this year and we have chosen St Vincent’s Hospice as the beneficiary.

Local sports clubs and groups (families and neighbourhoods) are being encouraged to enter sponsored teams. Why not resolve to get fit and prove it by taking part? To register go to https://entries.runabc.co.uk/listed-races/ gryffe-valley-rotary-10k .

YOU CAN VIEW OUR NEW SISTER MAGAZINE INSIGHT ONLINE - read all the articles from issues 1 and 2 VISIT WWW.ADVERTIZER.CO.UK/INSIGHT

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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WILL AID Event - March 2019 Gift in your Will in March and help families at Ronald McDonald House.

Throughout the month of March, you can have your will professionally drafted

by Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors for FREE. We ask only that you donate to Ronald McDonald House. (suggested £100 for basic and £150 for a couple.*) Call us to find out more - Tel 01505 874009 or 01505 874114 www.kingsleywood.co.uk

mail@kingsleywood.co.uk

*Please note this is for a basic will only. Quote can be given if you require anything more complex.

Looking for someone local?

advertizer.co.uk/clients

Scotland’s smaller firms plead for late payment action Governments in Edinburgh and London need to deliver a new drive to stop big businesses paying their smaller suppliers unacceptably late, according to the Federation of Small Businesses.

Ahead of the Spring Statement next month, FSB’s new Fair Pay, Fair Play campaign calls on the UK Government to force the biggest companies to appoint non-executive directors for payment practice and supplier relationships.

Further, FSB is urging UK Ministers to introduce fines for companies who do not publish legally required payment data.

North of the border, the small business campaign group is urging the Scottish Government to bar the worst late payers from devolved public contracts. They are urging Scottish public bodies to ask large potential suppliers of evidence they’re a responsible payer before awarding taxpayer funded contracts.

Andrew McRae, FSB’s Scotland policy chair, said: “Our lamentable payment culture isn’t a new phenomenon, but that doesn’t make it any more acceptable.

As we face the possibility of a sustained period of economic turbulence, we can’t see bigger businesses use their smaller customers as a free source of credit.

“For far too long, government has tolerated big businesses treating their smaller suppliers with disrespect. At the FSB, our patience has grown thin and we want to see decision-makers pull every lever available to eradicate this corrosive practise.”

Constructive Dismissal

FSB research shows that thousands of Scottish businesses shut their doors every year due to supply chain bullying and late payment practises. These closures could be prevented if Scotland adopted a similar payment culture to other European nations.

Four in five (84%) UK smaller businesses in supply chains say that they’ve been paid late, according to FSB research, while a third (33%) say at least a quarter of payments they’re owed arrive later than agreed. FSB survey work also suggests that about one in three (36%) Scottish businesses have run into cash flow difficulties as a result of late payments.

UK small businesses say that 60 per cent of late payments are greater than £1,000 in value while the average value of each late payment owed to a Scottish firm is £5718.

Andrew McRae said: “It is clear that late payment makes it more difficult to run a business in Scotland. In addition to seeing action from government, we need to see leaders of big businesses in Scotland take responsibility for how their companies treat their supply chains.”

by Dallas McMillan, Solicitors

Dismissal from employment will normally be carried out by the employer.

However, can an employee potentially treat the actions of an employer as amounting to a dismissal, resign and claim unfair dismissal?

Yes, this is known as a constructive (unfair) dismissal claim.

To succeed with such a claim, the employee must:1. Be an employee (not for example self-employed) and must show that there was a fundamental breach of contract by the employer. This breach can result from a serious single incident, or it can result from a series of employer breaches, each individually less serious, but cumulatively sufficient to justify the employee resigning.

2. Demonstrate that the employer’s breach of contract genuinely caused the resignation. It must therefore be the true reason for the resignation.

3. Normally resign immediately (or very soon) after the employer’s breach of contract. An employee can sometimes work on following a serious breach, if they advise their employer that they are working under protest. If for example an employer suddenly fundamentally changed an employee’s contract, rather than resign immediately the employee could instead raise a formal grievance and work on, under protest, until the grievance was resolved. If the grievance did not resolve the issue, the employee might then still be entitled to resign and claim.

Constructive dismissal is vastly different to a standard unfair dismissal. In the case of a constructive unfair dismissal claim the onus is on the employee (rather than the employer as is normally the case) to establish that there was a dismissal and that the dismissal was unfair.

Resigning- intending to claim constructive unfair dismissal- is thus a huge step.

It is often advisable to seek advice from a specialist solicitor before resigning.

LITIGATION TEAM OF THE YEAR Law Awards of Scotland 2018

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MARCH FRI 1 MARCH

SUN 3 MARCH

SUN 10 MARCH

THU 14 MAR - THU 11 APR

OKFest 19

OKFest 19

Houston & Killellan Kirk Foodbank Collection

St Colm’s Lenten Soup Lunches

Kilmacolm Old Kirk, High Street, Kilmacolm Kilmacolm’s 3rd annual Festival of Sound.

Brian McGlynn and friends, Licensed bar, Contemporary/easy listening music night. Full details under Old Kirk News on page 27.

World Day of Prayer

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm 1.30pm Share worship and fellowship with people around the world who will be participating in the World Day of Prayer. Children from Kilmacolm Primary School will join us with their singing and music. There will be refreshments after the Service. Everyone welcome! If you want to know more about the event, please call Maureen Russell Convenor (telephone 872905).

RSPB Local Group

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm Andy Shand will deliver an illustrated talk entitled ‘Birds, Buddhism and Blue Whales’.

All welcome.

SAT 2 MARCH MND Coffee Morning

Kilmacolm Community Centre, 2nd Floor, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon Come along to our fantastic coffee morning, have a cuppa and catch up with new friends and old! Tickets available at door. £3.

OKFest 19

Kilmacolm Old Kirk, High Street, Kilmacolm Kilmacolm’s 3rd annual Festival of Sound.

Pop up gospel workshop, Handbell ringing, Poetry and Literature readings, Choral Festival.

Free. Full details under Old Kirk News on page 27.

SAT 2 - SUN 3 MARCH Binocular & Telescope Open Day

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4pm Looking to purchase your first pair of binoculars, upgrade or simply just wanting to buy as a gift? We have the knowledge on hand to assist you in making the right decision. Our friendly and impartial team will be demonstrating and offering assistance on a wide range of competitively priced binoculars and telescopes. We stock a massive range of RSPB binoculars along with some well-known names such as Swarovski, Zeiss, Leica and Nikon! Free.

Kilmacolm Old Kirk, High Street, Kilmacolm Kilmacolm’s 3rd annual Festival of Sound.

Messy Music Sunday, Organ recitals, Riverside Youth band. Free - Donations welcome to help cover costs. More details at www. kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk Full details under Old Kirk News on page 27.

Junior Cross-Country timed race

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Try our Finlaystone 1k Kids cross country.

TUE 5 MARCH St Fillan’s Shrove Tuesday Coffee Morning

St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon There will be lovely freshly made pancakes, home baking, raffle and various stalls.

Entrance £3.

THU 7 MARCH OUTLOOK

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Entertainment with the Graham Reid Trio.

Wildlife Photography Workshop – Beginner Level

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 4.30pm Learn how to take great outdoors and wildlife photographs with your own camera, then see your results on screen. The workshop will be led by wildlife photographer David Palmar (www.photoscot.co.uk), who has over 30 years of experience and is a volunteer photographer with the RSPB at their Loch Lomond & Inner Forth reserves. This will be an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn the basics.

Advice, encouragement and ideas will be freely given! Cost: £25 for non-members and £20 for members.

TUE 12 MARCH

SAT 9 MARCH Paisley Abbey Saturday Recitals

Paisley Abbey, Abbey close, Paisley 12.30pm Cheryl Forbes & Gordon Cree Voice and Piano Admission £5 payable at the door. Registered Charity No. SC007633.

Kilbarchan Singers Coffee Morning

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 10am to 12noon Come along to our Coffee Morning and sample some lovely home baking. Tickets £3.

SUN 10 MARCH Ranger Hike

Houston & Killellan Kirk, Main Street, Houston 11am The Trussell Trust, operating in our area as Renfrewshire Foodbank www.renfrewshire. foodbank.org.uk depends on general public donations. A typical Food Parcel contains Breakfast Cereals, Soup, Pasta, Rice, Pasta Sauce, Tinned Beans, Tinned Meat, Tinned Vegetables, Tinned Fruit, Tea or Coffee, Sugar, Biscuits & Snacks, UHT Milk, Juice. If food donations could be brought to the Kirk at the 11am Service on Sunday 10th March.

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join the Ranger’s for a brisk walk.

Kilmacolm Civic Trust AGM

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7pm AGM at 7pm, followed by regular meeting at 7.45pm with illustrated talk by Ms Linda Arthur on the story of the Wally Tiles of Glasgow.

Everyone from the local area is welcome to attend including those who wish to attend the talk only.

Lilias Day 2019 - stallholders meeting

Old Library Centre, 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan 7pm to 9pm Book a stall to raise funds for your local charity / organisation or take a pitch in our new craft village (local crafters only). With over 3,000 people attending the event, it is a great way to raise funds. Contact us at: info@liliasday. co.uk, find us on Facebook or visit www. liliasday.co.uk

NEVER MISS A THING!

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 16-21 WHATS ON_294 MARCH 19.indd 16

St Colm Parish Church, Smithy Brae, Kilmacolm PA13 4EN 12noon to 1.30pm We welcome you to come along to our Lenten Soup Lunches. Enjoy a selection of delicious homemade soups in a friendly community.

THU 14 MARCH Sòlas Bereavement Group

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

If you have any news items you would like included in our next issue, email them to us at:

info@advertizer.co.uk before Friday 15th March 2019

FRI 15 - SAT 16 MARCH Johnstone Town Hall Spring Arts & Crafts Fair

Johnstone Town Hall, Johnstone 11am to 4pm Spring Arts & Crafts Fair with a range of stalls from local artist/crafts people and food items. www.renfrewshireleisure.com

FRI 15 MARCH Astronomy Evening

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm to 9pm Come and hear about the stars and galaxies up in the night sky! If the weather is kind to us, we’ll go outside and see some of these wonders for ourselves. The speakers will be from the Astronomical Society of Glasgow.

Please pay when booking as places are limited (refunds available if cancelled over 48hrs before) Cost: Adults: £6; Children: £4.80 (RSPB members: £4.80/£3.80).

SAT 16 MARCH Kilbarchan Messy Church

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 4pm to 6pm All Welcome. Children need to be accompanied by an adult.

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

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March 2019

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SAT 16 MARCH

SUN 17 MARCH

FRI 22 - SAT 23 MARCH

Family Ceilidh with Clamjamfrie

Spring Scavenger Hunt

Kilmacolm Art Class Annual Exhibition

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 6pm With local band Clamjamfrie. Tickets £7 for adults, £3 for children (age 5-18) and under 5’s go free. Tickets are available in advance by telephoning Ruth on 07875 565648 or by e-mailing: brookfieldvpa@gmail.com Licensed bar and a raffle.

‘Not a Burns Night’

St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm A fundraising Scottish evening in the Church Hall in Moss Road, Kilmacolm. Tickets are £15 which includes a haggis dinner, complimentary glass of wine, entertainment with poems and songs and a Scottish Quiz! There will also be a raffle on the night. For tickets please contact Maureen on 07789 077749.

Our regular Learners’ Day event

University of the West of Scotland, Student Union, Storie Street, Paisley PA1 2HB 10am to 4pm Gaelic conversation classes at four levels.

Places must be booked in advance. Entry £15 (£12 for ClannGàidhlig members), includes sandwich lunch. Tickets and more information from Alasdair at fios@clanngaidhlig.org or 07805 918509. £15.

Rays of Hope Spring Fayre

East Gate Church, 5 Glenpatrick Road, Elderslie, Johnstone PA5 9BH 10am to 2pm Money raised from this event will go towards our Boxes of Hope. From all at Rays of Hope, thank you in advance for your support.

SUN 17 MARCH Mothers Day & Easter Gift and Craft Fayre

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 1pm to 4pm Come along and browse our fantastic local crafter stalls. More than 20 to choose from; jewellery, bunting, soaps, art work, sweets, cards, books and much more...... Something for everyone! We would love to see you there! Entry: Adults £2 Children go free (Tea and coffee included). All funds raised will go towards World Challenge.

World Scone Making Championship

The Cakery, 5 High Street, Lochwinnoch PA12 4DB Scone-noisseur of the world, the 2nd World Scone Making Championship, returns to Lochwinnoch! It’s back, it’s a wee bit bigger and this time it’s fruity! Can you bake the perfect fruit scone? Then why not enter the second... SCONE-NOISSEUR OF THE WORLD CONTEST? £10 Entry - includes tea towel!

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join our Rangers to find the wonders of Spring!

TUE 19 MARCH Give Blood - Erskine

Erskine Sports Centre 2pm to 3.30pm & 5pm to 7.30pm

WED 20 MARCH Weir Networking

Amaretto Ristorante and Pizzeria, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir 9.30am to 11am We meet quarterly, on a Wednesday with breakfast starting at 9.30am. Cover charge of £5. Please email colin@magifilms.co.uk or visit FB at https://www.facebook.com/ Weir-Networking-350783798430333/ We look forward to seeing you all.

THU 21 MARCH OUTLOOK

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Indian Cuisine.

FRI 22 MARCH Pamper Night - Gryffe High School

Gryffe High School, Old Bridge of Weir Road, Houston 7pm to 10pm Calling folks of all ages …… Get your friends & family members together and come along to our pamper event in the school and enjoy make-up, hair & skincare demos, beauty treatments including nails, massage, waxing & spray tan alongside an opportunity to shop for unique gifts, perhaps for Mother’s Day from a variety of artisan vendors. Gift vouchers will also be available for purchase. Places are limited, tickets priced £5 for adults & £3 for under 18’s and can be purchased from the school office or message Sheila McHarg on facebook.

AGM Brookfield Village Council

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm Friday - 10am to 5.30pm Saturday - 10am - 4pm With around 100 paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate watercolour and palette knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets. There are also a variety of mounted paintings which can make an ideal gift.

Whether you are looking for contemporary, abstract or just an original work of art to brighten your home this could be the perfect opportunity. Please do come along and enjoy the exhibition. Entrance - Adults £1, children over 5 - 50p.

SAT 23 MARCH Practical Conservation Day

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10.30am to 3pm Some good grafting required! Help clear and maintain the Country Park. 18+ only please.

For more information tel: 01505 843271.

A Cèilidh with Fèis Phàislig and Friends

Wynd Theatre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley, PA1 2DB 7.15pm to 10pm A feast of music with youngsters (and their tutors) from the Fèis Phàislig group, plus singer Alison O’Neill, clàrsach player Neil Wood and the ladies of the Largs Gaeic Choir. Tickets £5, under-16s free. Tickets and more information from Alasdair at fios@clanngaidhlig.org or 07805 918509. £5.

Daffodil Spring Fayre

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Crafts, Tombola, Easter Eggs, Home Baking, Mother’s Day Gifts, and much more!... Adults £3 – Children £1.50 (Afternoon Tea Included) Proceeds raised in aid of the Kilmacolm Guide Hut. Scottish Charity No. SC030876

Kilbarchan Trefoil Guild Afternoon Tea

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 7.30pm The AGM of Brookfield Village Council followed

by Cheese & Wine.

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 2.30pm to 4pm Come along to our delicious Afternoon Tea Home Baking & Entertainment. Tickets £5 - available from Bobbins.

The Terrace Lunch Club

SAT 23 - SUN 24 MARCH

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 12noon Home made soups and sandwiches, coffee/ tea and a biscuit for £4. Tots go free. Everyone welcome. Held in the Church hall. £4.

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RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 9.30am to 4pm A comprehensive course to enable you to gain your powerboat licence. Practical on the water activities with overnight homework!

Cost: £170. For more information tel: 01505 842882 or book online.

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The Advertizer

1ST SAT EVERY MONDAY Lochwinnoch Community Walk

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 Singing for Wellbeing

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

Bridge of Weir Walking Group

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

Bridge of Weir Choral Society

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

Crafty Play Café

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

1ST & 3RD THURS MONTHLY ‘Outlook’

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

Crafty Hobbies

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

2ND WEDNESDAY MONTHLY Inverclyde Carers Outreach

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

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

3RD FRIDAY MONTHLY Hearing Aid Clinic

EVERY FRIDAY Singing for Wellbeing

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

EVERY SATURDAY Weekly Volunteer Group

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

EVERY SUNDAY Weekly Volunteer Group

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

Houston Litter Crew

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.

Loch Lomond Shores

10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861

2ND THU & LAST SAT Paisley Cross

10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217

2ND SUN Kip Marina, Inverkip

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

PAISLEY ABBEY SATURDAY RECITALS 9th March @ 12.30pm Cheryl Forbes & Gordon Cree Voice and Piano

2ND SATURDAY MONTHLY

Admission £5 payable at the door

‘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.

YOUR TICKET TO LOCAL EVENTS

I Was Glad Sunday 24th March @ 7.30pm Paisley Abbey Choir & Orchestra Baritone - Colin Murray Conductor - George McPhee Parry - I Was Glad, Songs of Farewell, Blest Pair of Sirens Stanford - Songs of the Fleet Tickets £18 available from Abbey Shop or by phone 0141 889 7654 Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) www.paisleyabbey.org.uk Registered Charity No. SC007633

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SUN 24 MARCH Art Club Show

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road, Brookfield 12noon to 4.30pm Brookfield Art Club will hold their Annual Show.

Admission £1 and there will be a tea room with home baking.

RSPB Lochwinnoch Open Day

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 11am to 3pm Come along to visit us at our beautiful reserve, and see the amazing wildlife. Kids can play in the natural play area, explore our fairy trail, have a go at pond dipping and take part in our treasure hunt. Everyone can walk the trails and enjoy the beautiful views whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife. Come along for a fun day out! Tel: (01505) 842663 | Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Free.

Den Building

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Learn to build a den and make a fire with the Rangers.

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1ST & 3RD SUN

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

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

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

10am - 2pm

2ND THURSDAY MONTHLY

Weekly Volunteer Group

Kilmacolm Walkers

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm

Don’t forget! clocks go FORWARD 1 hour at 1am on the last Sunday in March

WED 27 MARCH The Buddy Beats Drumming Group Open Nights

The Charleston Centre, 49 Neilston Road, Paisley PA2 6LY 6pm to 8pm Our sessions are easy going and always fun, no experience necessary - open to anyone regardless of a mental health condition.

Why not come along and try out our drums or you could check us out on Facebook at Renfrewshire’s The Buddy Beat or at www. thebuddybeat@sky.com

THU 28 MARCH Movie Night at the Old Kirk

The Old Kirk, 40 High Street, Kilmacolm 7.30pm The Greatest Showman. Free entry but a donation is welcome.

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March 2019

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Lochwinnoch Arts Festival ’19 Wednesday 27th Feb Photography exhibition, Library, Donation to MND FRINGE WEEKEND Friday 8th March Iconic women Christine Bovill, Witches Brew and Outi Smith, McKillop, 7.30pm, £10/8 Saturday 9th Jericho Hill and Bensider, McKillop, 7.30pm, £8/6 Sunday 10th Family music event, Lochbarr, 12-7pm, Free Ukulele workshop, Parish Church, 3-5pm, £5, booking required Life and Times of Pete Seeger with Finlay Alison & Jimmy Ross, Lochbarr, 7.30pm, £8/6 FESTIVAL OPENS Wednesday 13th Art Exhibition opening, Library, 7pm, By invitation Thursday 14th Alan Bisset Moira Monologues, McKillop, 7.30pm, £8/6 Friday 15th Comedy night, McKillop, 7.30pm, £10/8 Calder Church event, Calder Church, 7.30pm, donation Saturday 16th Jeff Zycinsky author, McKillop, 10.30am, £6/4 Craft Fair, McKillop, 1-4pm, free Susie Lamont pupil concert, Parish Church, 4-6pm, donation Karen Matheson and FARA, McKillop Hall, 7.30pm, £14 Sunday 17th Come and Try Jazz Choir with Outi Smith, McKillop, 1-3pm, £5, booking required Accordion workshop, McKillop, 2.304.30pm, £5, booking required Coro Aretiena Aracena Spanish choir, Parish Church, 3-5pm, £6/4 Classical music ‘Love and Romance’, Parish Church, 7.30pm, £8/6

Monday 18th Lochwinnoch Writers with Kirstin Innes and Diarmid MacArthur, Library, 2pm, Donation for MND Sing for St Vincent’s Lochwinnoch Choral Society, Location TBC, 7.30pm, Donations for St Vincent’s hospice Tuesday 19th Witches’ Brew Tea Bar McKillop 11am free Badger Mystical Mutt McKillop 1.30pm Free school only Wednesday 20th WhirlyBirds toddler event McKillop 10.30 - 11.30am £3 or £4 Glasgow Theatre Guild Parish Church 7.30pm £6/4 Thursday 21st Lochwinnoch Drama McKillop 7.30pm £6/4 Billy Gray - Jammin’in The Junction 7.30pm Price TBC Friday 22nd Lochwinnoch Drama McKillop 7.30pm £6/4 Billy Gray – Jammin’ in The Junction 7.30pm Price TBC Saturday 23rd Bernard MacLaverty author McKillop 10.30am £6/4 Krafty Kids McKillop 1-4pm Drop in £3 Craft Fair McKillop 1-4pm free Rock night McKillop 7.30pm £10/8 Sunday 24th Come and Try Pottery McKillop 10-4pm Come and Try and Workshops, £5, booking required ReMode McKillop 10-12noon Fiddle workshop McKillop 10-12noon Pennywhistle workshop McKillop 1-3pm Festival Finale Parish Church 7.30pm £6/4

FRI 29 - SAT 30 MARCH

SAT 30 MARCH

St Columba’s School Former Pupils & School Hockey/Rugby Matches

Family Volunteering

The hockey match begins at 6.30pm on Friday 29th at the Astroturf. Two rugby matches are played: one between two School teams and the second between two former pupil teams.

The rugby begins at 9.30am on Saturday 30th at Greenock Wanderers Rugby Club.

Please join us for what is sure to be a funfilled weekend.

SAT 30 MARCH LCDT Public Meeting

The Annexe, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 12noon to 2pm Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust (LCDT) are extremely pleased to be launching our consultation process at this public meeting, to create an action plan for community empowerment. We seek to engage with the Lochwinnoch community, to understand how the village feels a community development trust could be of use in the area.

It’s an exciting time, so come and join us!

Kilmacolm’s 3rd annual Festival of Sound Friday 1st March Brian McGlynn and friends

Contact for ticket info: 07868 752814 Contact for workshops and come and try: 07761 172726

Astroturf, Gryffe Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4BA Greenock Wanderers Rugby Club, Greenock, PA16 7SP

OKFest ’19

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 1pm to 3.30pm Who says that volunteering is only for grownups! Kids bring the grownup in your life to our reserve. Come and do a day’s practical volunteering at our beautiful reserve and help us to give nature a home. Please book. Free.

SUN 31 MARCH Walk with a Ranger - Corlic Hill

The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge, Greenock 10am to 4pm Corlic Hill is a local landmark. Kept meaning to explore it? This is your chance! For more information tel: 01475 521458 or book online.

SUN 31 MARCH Mother’s Day Walk

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank Join the Rangers for a gentle stroll through the forest with moderate slopes. Bring boots and coats. Bring mum for a garden stroll followed by a cream tea in the tea room. Times to be confirmed.

Licensed bar Contemporary/easy music night

listening

Saturday 2nd March Pop up gospel workshop Handbell ringing Poetry and Literature readings Choral Festival Sunday 3rd March Messy Music Sunday Organ recitals Riverside Youth band ~ Kilmacolm Old Kirk & Kidston Hall Something for all ages and tastes! Events all weekend FREE ENTRY Donations welcome to help cover costs More details at www. kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk or Kilmacolm Old Kirk

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The Buddy Beat

ClannGàidhlig

A mental health drumming group based in Johnstone for anyone in Renfrewshire

A Cèilidh with Fèis Phàislig and Friends.

Saturday 23rd March. 7.15pm - 10pm. Wynd Centre, School Wynd.

A feast of music with youngsters (and their tutors) from the Fèis Phàislig group, plus singer Alison O’Neill, clàrsach player Neil Wood and the ladies of the Largs Gaeic Choir.

Tickets £5, under-16s free Our regular Learners’ Day event.

Saturday 16th March. 10am - 4pm UWS, High Street

We promote social inclusion and our group offers a safe place for people to drum the blues away. Our group is open 50 weeks of the year on Thursdays, 10am - 12noon at our base in The Johnstone Hugh Parish Church Halls, just of Ludovic Square. It gives people a focus, and a future and has led people into other community groups, volunteering, education and employment.

We also have a monthly Open Night at The Charleston Centre in Paisley, 6pm to 7.45pm. It is free for anyone to come along and try our drums. No experience is necessary. Check us out on Facebook at Renfrewshire’s The Buddy Beat or at: thebuddybeat@sky.com New members always welcome - It could change your life completely.

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.

Thursdays 1pm - 3pm Active Communities Hub Quarry Street, Johnstone Educate ~ Support ~ Engage

Charity Ceilidh Saturday 16th March 2019 Fancy a bit of a dance?

Why not get yourself along to the Scottish Huntington’s Association’s Charity Ceilidh featuring the Gordon Ceilidh Band at Pollokshaws Burgh Hall on Saturday 16th March 2019. Doors open at 7pm. Entry £10 – under 16 go fee!

Pay online at www.hdscotland.org or by calling Linda on 0141 848 0308.

Funds raised will help support and improve the quality of life for people impacted by the complex neurological condition Huntington’s Disease (HD).

Gaelic conversation classes at four levels. Places must be booked in advance.

Entry £15 (£12 for ClannGàidhlig members), includes sandwich lunch.

Tickets and more information from Alasdair at fios@clanngaidhlig.org or 0780 591 8509

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.

Stallholders wanted for Spring Arts & Crafts Fair Johnstone Town Hall Spring Arts & Crafts Fair 2019 We hope the event will attract local gift shoppers from Johnstone and will provide an appropriate retail outlet for artists and craftspeople. The fair will run from Friday 15th March – Saturday 16th March, open from 11am until 4pm.

Please take a look at the exhibitor information and if you would like to participate, complete and return the booking form no later than Monday 4th March. There is no requirement to send payment at this stage. No bookings will be confirmed until the initial booking deadline of Monday 4th March has passed.

The Town Hall hosts a range of different services with over 150 staff and features an onsite café, library and a multitude of meeting room. We would like this to become an annual event in the Johnstone Town Hall calendar and plan to host similar events throughout the year.

Should you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Northcote, Venue Manager at jennifer-ann.northcote@renfrewshire.gov.uk or 0141 618 6721.

Full details and forms https://www.renfrewshireleisure.com/stallholderswanted-for-spring-arts-crafts-fair

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 16-21 WHATS ON_294 MARCH 19.indd 20

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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Ardgowan Hospice’s Annual Ball 2019!

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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.

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.

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Bach Magnificat in D major Mozart Symphony 28 Haydn Paukenmesse Sunday 17th March 2019 7.30 pm (doors open 6.45 pm) Paisley Abbey Ondrej Soukup : Conductor Catrin Woodruff: Soprano Seumas Begg: Tenor Lauren Bridget Young: Mezzo Colin Murray: Baritone Orchestra from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Tickets £12.00/£5.00 students/accompanied children free: from Choir members phone: 01505 816110 or 01505 612874 Email: coatschoral@btinternet.com or at the door www.thomascoatschoral.org.uk A CHARITY REGISTERED IN SCOTLAND SC003075

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

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

For further details phone (01505) 613967.

Bridge of Weir Community Council has called for a meeting with Renfrewshire Council’s Road Department Officers to identify why it is taking so long to get responses to our requests for Traffic Calming measures at the entrances to the Village.

Food waste bags are now available for collection at the Bridge, this avenue should only be used as a last resort.

Food waste bags should be requested by tying one around your brown/food bin, and bags are also available at the recycling centres.

Complaints received by the Community Council regarding the overcrowding on McGill’s evening peak time X7 service from Glasgow prompted a quick response from McGill’s Managing Director Ralph Roberts stating they are aware standees are becoming a regular feature on certain peak time journeys. “Whilst our vehicles are, like every other bus in the UK, rated to carry standing passengers, we would much rather that they have a seat for their journey. We are currently looking at how we can provide additional seats at peak time within the current fleet employed on the route.

Due to regulatory lead times, it will be May this year before any such changes can be made.”

An inspector recently visited the footway on Main Street between Kirkinner Place and Windsor Place and instructed repairs on safety defects. He did note that this length of footway would benefit from resurfacing and will forward this for consideration within the next financial year.

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

BoW Lace Group

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Singing for Wellbeing

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. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Would you like to be an OWL?

Bridge of Weir Community Council

Community Councillor’s in reviewing Renfrewshire Council Officers proposals for Livery Walk car park are opposed to the complete withdrawal of all parent and child places.

We are also awaiting confirmation from Renfrewshire Council’s Senior Roads Department Officers that the work to extend the 30 mph speed limit beyond St. Mary’s Church Johnstone Road will commence in March The attending Community Police Officers reported relatively low crime figures for the period December to February, in total there were nine recorded crimes with four detections.

These included theft, common assault, drug offences, antisocial behaviour, road traffic and breach of bail.

Girlgiding Bridge of Weir are on the look out for new volunteers who

LOVE ADVENTURE, HAVING FUN and CONTRIBUTING TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY If you would like more information, please contact Kim, District Commissioner, on kimcowling40@ gmail.com

A comprehensive report on electric car charging points was put before the meeting, however before the Community Council proceeds any further, contact requires to be made with Renfrewshire Council to determine what their plans and criteria are for the introduction of charging points.

Apologies were received from all three of our Renfrewshire Councillors, we were however grateful for written reports that included;

Virgin Media has accepted the damage for a section of pavement at Strathgryffe Crescent, Renfrewshire Council has requested a timescale for the repair The resurfaced Georgetown Road appears to be deteriorating further, an officer will inspect the road in question and any defects will be corrected by the Contractor as the surfacing is still within the maintenance period.

Resurfacing work at the bottom of Hazelwood Road has now taken place.

The Community Council has carried out a review of the subcommittees and membership of the sub-groups, these will be Events, Christmas Lights, and IT. Planning and Projects will continue to be separate agenda items at the full Community Council meetings.

Over the spring the Community Council will consider new projects for the Village to identify what can be considered, we have invited Officers from the Council to our next meeting to discuss the criteria for funding from the Village Fund Parks and Green Spaces initiative and Community Empowerment, and we thank Councillor Don for assisting us in inviting the appropriate officers.

At our next meeting we will hear a report from the members attending Renfrewshire Community Council’s Forum where Fraser Carlin, Head of Planning, will address the meeting.

The next meeting of the Community Council will be on Tuesday 5th March at 7pm in the Cargill Hall.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Freeland Church

Freeland Church now have a new website please check this out at www. freelandchurch.org.uk Upcoming events Sunday 10th March: Healing Service 7pm - 8pm (A service for anyone

feeling lonely, empty, worried of bereaved) Saturday 16th March: Day of Prayer 10am – 4.30pm (Come in and pray, stay or leave when you want Open to everyone)

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

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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@

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bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church To be fully known One of my favourite verses in the Bible is in a well-known passage – quite often read at weddings: 1 Corinthians chapter 13 verse 12. It says this about love and knowledge: For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

In other places people have written that God fully knows us, knows our movements and our thoughts, for example Psalm 139 (Google it!). Perhaps the thought of God knowing us is creepy and unsettling, but to be known fully and still be loved is hugely liberating. We often keep our deepest darkest thoughts to ourselves, because we worry people won’t love or like us anymore if they truly knew us. But God knows us and loves us nonetheless, as Jesus has made clear.

Mental health has been rightly receiving much attention lately. We hear that it is good to open up and talk to others. It does require trust and a safe place of love and acceptance. Prayer to God is one way to begin to open up, speaking with someone another. Many churches will offer pastoral care via ministers/priests, elders or other volunteers. The main purpose of this is to listen well, so people will experience that they are known and loved. We can all give this care to one another, by listening well and without judgement or rushing to give advice.

Our church has set up a pastoral visiting team, if you want to know more, check out our website (www.stmacharsranfurlychurch.org.uk) or contact the minister.

Rev Hanneke Marshall, Minister of St Machar’s Ranfurly Church New Seated Service: the Friday Link St Machar’s Ranfurly Church in Bridge of Weir are introducing a short, seated service particularly aimed at people who find it more difficult to be in church for a full service on a Sunday. It will be held monthly in the Session Room downstairs and will be informal, lasting no more than 30 minutes. Afterwards there will be tea and coffee and a chance for a chat. We have decided to call this The Friday Link. This will provide a link to church for some of our older, less able members and friends. The first of these services will be held on Friday 8th March at 2pm.

Everyone is welcome, whether a member of the church or not! There is wheel chair access via ramp if needed.

If you or someone you know would like to come along and need transport please phone Fiona Downie on 01505 613671 or email fdownie13@gmail.com The Terrace Our community lunch this month has been moved to Friday 22nd of March at 12noon instead of 29th of March due to hall refurbishment beginning 25th March. Home made soups and sandwiches, coffee/tea and a biscuit for £4.

Tots go free. Everyone welcome. Held in St Machar’s Ranfurly Church hall. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

The Masquerader’s Annual Charity Concert

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

The Bridge

Spring is upon us already in The Bridge, we are planning for Christmas 2019!

Alison Bannerman has finished our much acclaimed Christmas card and members of the Paisley Colour Photographic Club are taking photographs for the 2020 Calendar.

Anne - This month we are saying goodbye to Anne. Thank you for 6 years of friendly and reliable service. It has been a great pleasure working with you. Happy Retirement.

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

Sometimes we despair that no one truly understands or knows us, especially when we are struggling with sadness or difficulty. This passage talks about Jesus or God knowing us fully, and the Christian hope that one day we will meet him face to face. All our struggles and our questions can then finally be resolved and we will know fully, as we are already fully known by God.

Mother’s Day is celebrated on the 31st March. Show how much your Mum means to you by sending a card from our selection.

Easter Sunday is celebrated on 21st April. Brighten up someone’s day by sending an Easter Greetings card from our colourful display.

Art Exhibition - during March, the artwork on show will be courtesy of St. Vincent’s Hospice. Sales will benefit both charities - The Hospice and The Bridge.

Post Office: The usual postal services are provided during opening hours. For that trip abroad - buy your Euros from our Euros on Demand service or place an Advance Order for all currencies.

Volunteers: Do you have a spare 4 hours once a month? If so, please consider becoming a volunteer in The Bridge. Do not worry about lack of experience as another friendly volunteer will be only too happy to assist.

We look forward to meeting up with you in The Bridge – Your Community Centre, Shop and Post Office.

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

Bridge of Weir SWI

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday 7th March at 7.15pm for 7.30pm in the Pirie at Freeland Church. We are planning a craft evening, which should offer an opportunity to learn new skills and to share ideas. It may provide some inspiration for entries to our mini show in April.

As usual SWI meetings provide a good opportunity to meet with friends old and new, so please come along.

The fun, song and hilarity will be with us as The Masquerade’s take to the stage again for their eagerly awaited annual show! It will take place in St Machar’s Ranfurly church hall on Saturday 27th April at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 and available from any of the team or by calling 01505 614953

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 - Freeland Church - Sunday Morning Service 10.30am and Sunday Evening Service 7pm. 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: Sunday morning service 10.30am.

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

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Positive Thinking

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

The only thing you can control in your life is your thoughts. The only thought you have power over is the present one. Find out how to control your thoughts, and attract exactly what you want into your life. Phone or text 07463 570464. bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

In Bridge of Weir, I am working closely with Freeland Church and Amaretto to bring about some much needed lighting and a new surface and drainage to their car park which is used by many Bridge of Weir residents. This will be an expensive operation and anyone wishing to contribute to this should give to Freeland Church who may be able to claim an additional 25% in Gift Aid.

Also in Bridge of Weir, I am keen to upgrade the footpath on Clevans Road and have it adopted by the council. Both residents and Ranfurly Castle Golf Club have expressed a desire to see this outcome. For many years it has been a hazard to walk on with many walkers and mothers with prams preferring the dangerous option of walking on the road instead, this despite regular yearly maintenance from the golf club staff to try to keep it safe. It is now time to finalise the cost and for some fundraising. Watch this space!

There is a lot going on Education wise in the ward, particularly in Langbank Primary School. There seems to be a funding issue, a public consultation is running for the new primary school in Dargavel, and I am hearing about staffing issues at Park Mains High School, and the overcrowding issues continue at Bishopton Primary School. I appreciate your feedback on such matters.

I welcome the initiative of the Langbank Community Council as they prepare their village survey and I hope all villagers will try to complete and return the forms that are being sent out. It is also good to know that the work on the right of way to Marypark Road from Middlepenny Road is continuing.

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) For further information on any of the above, please contact me 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.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Coffee Morning Saturday 2nd March 2019. Held in New Community Centre (2nd Floor) 10am - 12noon. Tickets £3 available at door.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society working hard for Stepping Out Members of KDS are working even harder than usual as they rehearse for Richard Harris’s Stepping Out, their Spring production.

The cast not only have to learn their lines, they are also enjoying learning to tap dance for the play, which is in Kilmacolm’s Kidston Hall on 11th, 12th and 13th April.

Director John Gilchrist has assembled a large and enthusiastic cast and they are being put through their dancing paces by choreographer and professional dance teacher Liz Addison, assisted by Carol Biggin and Julie Gibb.

Paul Donnachie is the sole male cast member and there are both familiar and new faces among the ladies – Anne Crawley, Julie Gibb, Audrey Hunter, Linda Lyon, Ruth Quigley, Stess Ross, Jean Simpson, Megan Smith and Kate Watt.

Val Crookston is John’s invaluable assistant and Kevin Curran and Russell Gibb are his essential backstage team.

This is one production you don’t want to miss! kilmacolm & quarriers

Do You Want To Improve Your Bridge ?

Classes resume on Wednesday afternoons starting 27th February, Kilmacolm Community Centre, 2pm – 4pm.

There will be a lesson on a specific topic each time followed by discussion and play for the rest of the time. Feel free to come when you can. A detailed list of lessons is displayed in the Centre Notice Board.

Further information call 01505 872345.

kilmacolm & quarriers

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

Kilmacolm Art Class We will be holding their annual exhibition on Friday 22nd March (10am - 5.30pm) and Saturday 23rd March (10am - 4pm). Once again it is being held in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm, which is an exciting venue and we hope even more people come along to view this excellent show.

There are usually around 100 paintings beautifully framed and displayed for sale in oil, delicate watercolour and palette knife all to tempt the discerning art lover, with prices to suit all budgets. There are also a variety of mounted paintings which can make an ideal gift.

Whether you are looking for contemporary, abstract or just an original work of art to brighten your home this could be the perfect opportunity. Please do come along and enjoy the exhibition. Entrance - Adults £1, children over 5 - 50p

kilmacolm & quarriers

Annual General Meeting And Illustrated Talk 7pm Tuesday 12th March 2019 The Kilmacolm Civic Trust will hold its AGM at the Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm at 7pm on 12th March. The meeting will be followed by an illustrated talk by Ms Linda Arthur, the Chair of the Scottish Tourist Guides Association on the story of the Wally Tiles of Glasgow. The AGM will begin at 7pm and the talk will follow at 7.45pm. Everyone from the local area is welcome to attend including those who wish to attend the talk only.

The Kilmacolm Civic Trust has had a particularly busy year, playing a major part in the campaign to persuade Inverclyde Council to reject the proposal to build at Knapp’s Loch and North Denniston around Kilmacolm and of the continuing fight to prevent the development of Carsemeadow in Quarrier’s Village. All local people are invited to come along and listen to the report on KCT activities of the past year and its plans for 2019-20.

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 o@ them to inf

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 22-33 VILLAGE_294 MARCH 19.indd 24

Community Halls to Let ...

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

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

kilmacolm & quarriers

kilmacolm & quarriers

We welcome you to come along to our Lenten Soup Lunches.

These will be held on Thursdays beginning on 14th March - 11th April, 12noon -1.30pm.

Put a spring in your step and join us on Saturday 6th April at our Spring Bulb Coffee Morning at St Fillan’s Episcopal Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm. We will have home baking and a variety of stalls including spring bulbs in pots for sale. Tickets cost £3. 10am - 12 noon. All in aid of Heartland Circle - a club for seniors - supporting people with dementia.

St Colm’s Lenten Soup Lunches

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Spring Bulb Coffee Morning

Enjoy a selection of delicious homemade soups in a friendly community.

Smithy Brae, Kilmacolm PA13 4EN kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Community Clean Up Few of us understand the non-caring actions of a mindless minority of people who are responsible for littering the countryside and leaving it to others to clear up. The Kilmacolm Community Council invite those community minded others to join in the 2019 Kilmacolm Community Council CleanUp for an hour or two on Saturday 13th April to clear the litter from the verges of the roads and pathways in and out of the village. The litter seems to be at its worst for some years.

Those who wish to join in the Kilmacolm Community Clean Up should meet up in the Pullman car park at 10am on Saturday 13th April where they will be formed into teams that will be allocated a section of road or pathway to clear the offending litter. Dress for the weather and terrain and bring a pair of gardening gloves. Litter pickers, garbage bags and high viz vests will be provided. It is hoped that the verges will remain litter free for long enough for those participating on the day to be able to reflect on a job well done.

This Kilmacolm event is registered with the Keep Britain Tidy Great British Spring Clean 2019 kilmacolm & quarriers

A new bible based after school club for primary age children.

Tuesdays from 3.45pm - 5pm Mount Zion Church, Law View Road, Quarriers Village, PA11 3FD All in a fun and friendly environment Go to www.mountzionquarriers.org/youth to download a registration form Mount Zion Church is a registered Charity: SC030549. 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

Daffodil Spring Fayre

Written by The Christian Women of Slovenia

Saturday 23rd March • 2pm – 4pm St. Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm Adults £3 – Children £1.50 Afternoon Tea Included Crafts • Tombola • Easter Eggs • Home Baking • Mother’s Day Gifts • and much more!...

Proceeds raised in aid of the Kilmacolm Guide Hut. Scottish Charity No. SC030876

Theme: ‘Come – Everything is Ready’ Local Service in St. Columba Church Hall, Bridge of Weir Road, Kilmacolm on Friday 1st MARCH at 1.30pm The local WDP group of representatives from the local Churches warmly invites you to share worship and fellowship with people around the world who will be participating in the World Day of Prayer.

We are delighted that the children from Kilmacolm Primary School will be able to join us with their singing and music. There will be refreshments after the Service.

Kilmacolm Surgeries

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

kilmacolm & quarriers

kilmacolm & quarriers

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

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

St Fillan's Shrove Tuesday Coffee Morning

Tuesday 5th March February 10am - 12noon in St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road Kilmacolm.

With lovely freshly made pancakes, home baking, raffle and various stalls.

Entrance £3.

Everyone welcome! If you want to know more about the event, please give me a call. Maureen Russell Convenor (telephone 872905).

Churches in Kilmacolm & Quarriers ... __________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________ KILMACOLM OLD KIRK: Church of Scotland (Charity no. SC009291). www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk. Minister Rev. Dr. Peter McEnhill (01505 873174). All Sundays in March, services at 11am with coffee served afterwards. All welcome. Sacrament of Holy Communion 3rd March. Lent begins 6th March.

Sòlas Bereavement Group is held in Kidston Hall on the 2nd Thursday each month at 2pm. OUTLOOK on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 2pm.

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 kilmacolm & quarriers

The Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Society had a well attended Whist Drive in the Cargill. Excellent pastime for keeping, as is Bridge, the brain active. I spoke at both the Kilmacolm and Largs Farmers dinners and the Greenock Speakers Club. No fees but three fine bottles of Malt for my drinks cabinet. Much missed Past Captain of the Golf Club and quite excellent Burns speaker, Jim Power, had a roomful of Malts, but he was better than me and in greater demand.

We are in the middle of our budget negotiations and my party does not want an increase of 4.7% in the Council Tax as agreed at Holyrood. E F G and H Council Tax bands received increases between 7.55 and 22.5% in April 2017. An increase which affected many of my constituents and one which was again introduced by the Scottish Government. We will have to make savings and will try to minimise them but my colleague and I are but 2 voices out of 22.

. . . Kilmacolm & Quarriers . . .

The Gourock/ Kilcreggan Ferry is foot passenger only and subsidised by SPT. As the weather improves I can recommend the £7 return from Gourock and the Café and Pub in the village of Kilcreggan, who both offer refreshments.

I paid my annual visit to the Inverclyde Macular Society. Like the Muirshiel centre in Port Glasgow I meet village residents who find fellowship motivational. Both do fine work supported by volunteers and various speakers.

A solution has been found to the Air Traffic Control interference at Glasgow Airport, which would be caused by the eight 110 metre high turbines at the proposed Greenock Windfarm. Construction is due to start soon. This is a ridiculous industrial project in the middle of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park which will be easily visible from the village. The application was refused by Inverclyde Council but overturned on appeal by the Scottish Government. Particularly disappointing was the lack of an objection from Renfrewshire Council.

Glasgow City and Renfrewshire Councils have decided not to proceed with a rail link to Glasgow Airport. The congestion on the M8 is there for all to see and Glasgow Airport is the only airport in Europe handing 10 million passengers per annum without a surface rail link. If half the millions gifted to the failing Prestwick Airport by the Scottish Government was granted to GLW then many more routes to the Far East, Europe and North America could be opened.

SEPA and their consultants are ready to start on the fish pools at the Gottar Water Weir. All being well there should be salmon running through the village between September and November this year. Thanks are due to Quarriers and local residents who have helped to facilitate this important ecological project.

Many Kilmacolm, Quarriers and Port Glasgow pupils won accolades at the Inverclyde Festival. St Columba’s Senior and Junior and Port Glasgow High excelled. All three have a fine musical reputation.

My surgeries are 23rd March at the Cargill 1st April St Mary’s Episcopal Port Glasgow. I can be contacted at: david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk, 07766 992294 01475 741969 and 712975.

kilmacolm & quarriers

Angel Voices’ Success at Greenock Festival!

The Choir competed in the 11 years and under class and retained the ‘Peter Pan Chalice.’ The Choir is taught by professional musicians and sings all kinds of music. Choir rehearsals are on Fridays in term time at 6pm in St Fillan’s Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmacolm. New members of all ages are very welcome to come along for a couple of taster sessions. For more details please contact Organiser Maureen Russell: email maureenmrussell@hotmail.com or mobile: 07905 950028; landline: 01505 872905.

kilmacolm & quarriers

A Tribute to Chris Butlin from St Fillan’s Church We were deeply saddened by the news of Chris’ sudden death on 3rd December 2018.

Chris worshipped and served in St Fillan’s and in the local Community for many years. On Remembrance Sunday, Chris would present St Fillan’s wreath.

He was proud to have served his country in the Royal Navy and though he went on to have a successful career in business, he never lost his love of all things navy and ships. Chris enjoyed the monthly Clydemen talks and outings and above all he loved whatever company he was in, sharing all the banter.

Chris and Ruth ran the St Fillan’s Social Club for many years taking local people on a 52 seater bus on wonderful outings – theatre shows and plays, the Tattoo in Edinburgh, Pitlochry and many more venues. They gave pleasure to many people who would never have ventured out on their own. They looked after folk, cared about them. Chris would say, ‘I counted them off the bus and counted them on again’ (often rounding up the strays!) He even a little step to help people to get in and out of the coach more easily and brought this for every outing.

Chris loved people from all walks of life, especially children. Chris was proud of his grand-children and a firm supporter of Angel Voices Choir. Chris was an enthusiastic member of the Gryffe Valley Rotary Club who ran many excellent projects at home and abroad. He was involved in setting up Kilmacolm’s twinning with Merignies in France and fostering links between the schools and clubs.

There is so much more to say about Chris, and we will go on recollecting him and the things he did – and smile when we hear his name. Ruth has settled near her family in Edinburgh and loves to hear news of St Fillan’s and the Kilmacolm community. We will keep in touch and be visiting Ruth. With gratitude to them both. (supplied by Maureen Russell) kilmacolm & quarriers

Kilmacolm Community Council Meeting 29th January 2019 James Kelly was welcomed to his first meeting as a recently appointed Coopted Member of the Community Council Planning: This opposition had been relayed to Inverclyde Council. Ten validated planning applications were considered at the meeting none of which were opposed or required any formal comment.

The Reporter appointed by the Scottish Government to review and arbitrate on the proposed 2019 Inverclyde Local Development Plan had invited the Kilmacolm Community Council to comment on the additional information that would be provided to clarify the Housing Land Supply, Housing Supply Targets & Housing Land Requirement in and around Kilmacolm.

Roads and Pavements: There were number of loose manhole covers on some of the Kilmacolm roads which had been reported and were being dealt with. Problems of blocked manholes and drains in the vicinity of Glebe Court and Gilburn Road would be reported to Inverclyde Council as would the hazard caused by refuge bins blocking the pavement at Carlton Place.

Buses: It was agreed to contact Port Glasgow Voluntary Trans Port Group to ascertain if they would be willing to provide a periodic ‘shuttle’ service to enable residents in the Finlaystone housing estates to more easily travel to local shopping destinations.

St Columba’s School would also be contacted to establish whether they could provide such a service as part of their community outreach programme.

SPT would be contacted in regard to the lack of lighting in the bus shelter at the Kilmacolm Cross which was of concern to some bus users.

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 22-33 VILLAGE_294 MARCH 19.indd 26

kilmacolm & quarriers

Grace Church Kilmacolm Ladies Fellowship Invitation to Grace Church Kilmacolm Ladies Fellowship March meetings, alternate Tuesdays at 2.15pm in the Guide Hut, Woodrow Avenue, Kilmacolm, PA13 4QF Tuesday 5th March, Alistair McAleese, C.A.P. Tuesday 19th March, Mary Dempster, ‘Home Boxes’ N.O.D.A. All ladies welcome.

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

kilmacolm & quarriers

Old Kirk News

Advertisement Feature

‘OUTLOOK’ 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 March: Entertainment with the Graham Reid Trio.

Indian Cuisine with Mrs Indu Main.

7th March 21st March

••• OK FEST 1st – 3rd March Kilmacolm’s 3rd annual Festival of Sound. All events free. Donations to help cover costs are welcome.

Friday 1st March 7.30pm

Contemporary/Easy Listening Music Night with Brian McGlynn & friends. Licensed bar, Kidston Hall

Saturday 2nd March

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

Sunday 3rd March

7pm – 9pm

0141 280 8210

Messy Musical Sunday with children’s voices, Kidston Hall.

Organ Recital with Steven McIntyre and the Bridge of Weir Choral Society, Old Kirk.

Riverside Youth Band. Scottish Youth Champions 2016, 2017, 2018, Old Kirk.

Bridge of Weir, Kilbarchan, Houston, Bishopton, Renfrew, Johnstone, Paisley https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/renfrewshirebarrhead

•••

Registered with Care Inspectorate

Thursday 28th March - Movie Night - The Greatest Showman, 7.30pm, Old Kirk.

This is the first night of a new regular initiative to show a movie on the last Thursday evening of each month. Free entry and glass of wine with a donation to the Pilgrim Pathway welcome. kilmacolm & quarriers

Not a Burns Night St Fillans Church are holding a fundraising ‘Not a Burns Night’ Scottish evening on Saturday 16th March in the Church Hall in Moss Road, Kilmacolm. Tickets are £15 which includes a haggis dinner, complimentary glass of wine, entertainment with poems and songs and a Scottish Quiz!

There will also be a raffle on the night.

For tickets please contact Maureen on 07789 077749.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Mothers Day & Easter Gift and Craft Fayre

Sunday 17th March from 1pm to 4pm Kilbarchan Guide Centre, High Barholm, Kilbarchan Come along and browse our fantastic local crafter stalls. More than 20 to choose from; jewellery, bunting, soaps, art work, sweets, cards, books and much more... Something for everyone!

This month Kilbarchan Messy Church meets on Saturday 16th March in the Church Halls, Steeple Square, from 4pm to 6pm. Our theme will be based on Mother’s Day. Come along and join in in the crafts, story and song, finishing by everyone sitting down to eat together. All children must bring an adult along with them.

We would love to see you there!

Entry: Adults £2 Children go free (Tea and coffee included).

All funds raised will go towards World Challenge

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club continues on Monday mornings from 9.15am - 11.30am in the hall. All tots from birth - 3 years welcome, along with an accompanying adult.

Churches in Kilbarchan, Howwood, Lochwinnoch & Elderslie ... __________________________________________________________________________________________________

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club

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

11am – 12.30pm Pop-Up Gospel Workshop, Kidston Hall.

1 – 1.45pm Introduction to Handbell Ringing with Paisley Handbell Team, Old Kirk.

2pm – 4.15pm Poetry and Literature readings on the importance of JOY with Renfrewshire Makar Brian Whittingham and selected guest authors, Old Kirk.

7pm – 9pm Choral Festival with Inverclyde Singers and The Arkelston Singers, Old Kirk.

11am - 12pm 2.30pm – 4pm

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Continues on Monday mornings in the hall from 9.15am - 11.30am.

All toddlers from birth - 3 years are welcome along with an accompanying adult. The cost is £1 for adults, coffee, juice and biscuits are provided along with a large variety of toys and bouncy castle. Although the adults are responsible for their child/children, there is an opportunity for new Mums and new residents in the village to get to know each other. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Knitting Bee

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

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

KILBARCHAN PARISH CHURCH: Services continue at 11am each Sunday in March, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. Junior Church and the crèche meet in the halls from 10.45am. Refreshments are served in the hall after the service with time for fellowship and chat. The Midweek Fellowship meets each Wednesday in the small hall with coffee from 10.30am and a short service of worship at 11am. All welcome to all services.

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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The Advertizer

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch International Aid & Fair Trade Group News Lochwinnoch Arts Festival is coming! Watch out for 2 Fairtrade events LIA is holding during it. A Fairtrade wine and chocolate tasting session in the interval at Alan Bissett’s comedy show (The Moira Monologues) on Thursday 14th March.

Also there’s a Fairtrade tea/coffee/cakes bar at the craft fair on the afternoon of Saturday 23rd March.

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

The price of the cocoa going into our chocolate has plummeted in recent years. For cocoa farmers this has been a disaster, as they struggle to send their children to school, feed their families or pay for medical treatment. Most people don’t realise that this can be the real cost of chocolate. Or that, by buying Fairtrade, they can change farmers’ lives for the better. £1.86 is the amount a cocoa farmer in West Africa needs to earn each day in order to achieve a living income. Currently, a typical cocoa farmer in Cote d’Ivoire lives on around 74p a day. Almost all cocoa farmers in West Africa live in poverty.

For the women the situation is even worse. They may plant and harvest on the farm, look after children, carry water, collect wood, cook and clean for the family and transport the cocoa beans to market but often with fewer rights than men.

This is why Fairtrade are campaigning for a living income to become a reality for cocoa farmers in West Africa. We can choose to be part of the solution.

How To Put Fairtrade In Your Break Whether it’s a English Breakfast tea or a skinny latte, always look for the Fairtrade Mark on the packet. You’ll find a Fairtrade choice in most supermarkets. Before you pop into your usual high street coffee shop, double check to see if their coffee is Fairtrade certified.

Whether you are going healthy with a banana or sharing out a block of chocolate around the office, your choice can make the difference. Look for the Fairtrade Mark, and if your local shop doesn’t stock what you want, ask them to do so.

You can use Fairtrade ingredients in plenty of recipes. There’s a Fairtrade choice for everything from cocoa to sugar paste, from vanilla to icing sugar. So whatever style of cake you create you can make sure it does good as well as tastes good. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Rays of Hope Spring Fayre

Saturday, 16th March 2019 from 10am - 2pm

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Dementia Friendly Village

East Gate Church, 5 Glenpatrick Road, Elderslie PA5 9AP Money raised from this event will go towards our Boxes of Hope. Newly diagnosed breast cancer patients are give one of our “Boxes of Hope” with all the things they wished they had taken to hospital with them, everything from Non perfumed toiletries, mints, water flask, hand held fan, tissues, lip balm, eye gel, colouring book and pencils, ear phones, mindfulness book along with other items. We hope to be able to provide these for those diagnosed with others types too .

From all at Rays of Hope , thank you in advance for your support.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

March – Tuesday 19th: Canine Partners by Dale Gormley. Competition – something beginning with the letter E. Hostesses: Chris Darroch & Greta Marshall. Vote of thanks: Nan Robertson

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.

Howwood WI

Howwood Community Council

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

There are 2 meetings in March, Famous Couples (postponed from September) and Walls - eg the Berlin Wall, the Great Wall of China etc. If you would like more information about the group, please phone 703786 and visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

The Kilbarchan Singers invite you to our Coffee Morning on Saturday 9th March, from 10am to 12 noon, in Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, tickets priced £3.

Kilbarchan

Kilbarchan Singers Coffee Morning

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Recently I was contacted by a Howwood constituent who is selfemployed who was very concerned about unpaid invoices from Renfrewshire Council. Worryingly, she also stated that this was not the first time this had been a problem. I am very concerned about this for two reasons. Firstly, my parents were both self employed with small businesses so I know how tight the margins can be. Secondly, Renfrewshire Council has protocols in place about paying debt within 28 days which are being broken. I have contacted the Chief Executive to say that it is vital that these protocols are upheld and our small businesses fully supported.

The no 38 Kilbarchan Bus operated by McGills has simply failed to appear on occasion according to reports, thereby causing tremendous upset to Kilbarchan residents who are dependent on a reliable and frequent bus service. Accordingly, I complained to the Renfrewshire Council representative on the SPT. They have advised me accordingly that poor standards of operation by bus companies should be reported as soon as possible by constituents and I strongly advise that this is done. Complaints can be directed to www.transport.gov.scot/publictransport/buses/bus-complaints/ Lochwinnoch residents, and particularly those residents who live in the Calderbank area outside the main village, will be aware of the Planning Application for a Hydropower turbine in the Calderbank area by the West Kilbride based company Ashrona. As a member of the Planning Board I do not wish to prejudge the application before it comes to the Board, but I would like to correct an assertion in the application by Ashrona that the Park Manager of Clydemuirshiel is supportive of the application, the Clydemuirshiel Board is neutral on this matter.

My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall at 7.30pm, and my advice surgery in Howwood is on the 4th Wednesday of the month in Howwood Village Hall at 6.30pm, then at Lochwinnoch also on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 7.30pm, excluding July and December. But I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8, facebook me on Independent Voice/Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages, or e-mail me at cllr.andy.doig@ renfrewshire.gov.uk. kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Art Classes Kilbarchan Guide Centre

Richard Weeks, Film Project Producer

If you would like to try something new or would like to get started painting again, come along and join us. A few places are available in our Monday or Friday afternoon classes. We offer art classes where you can learn the basics or develop new skills in drawing and painting in a relaxed and sociable environment under the guidance and teaching of Ian Richardson B.A.(Hons)

Call to book call 07761114567

Contact Jean or Christine at http://www.girlguidingkilbarchan.btck.co.uk

Friday 26th April 2pm Calder Church The Third ‘Bring a Cushion’ Film Show Old Paisley, Renfrewshire and Lochwinnoch

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 April 2019 issue - Friday 22-33 VILLAGE_294 MARCH 19.indd 28

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

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March 2019 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood Village Fete

t: 01505 613340 kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Howwood Parish Church Community Coffee Shop

Saturday 15th June 2019 1pm - 4pm

Stall Holders Required

Community Coffee Shop First Friday monthly

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Liz and Morag are now going for 1000 people through the course!

Morag and Liz beside the AED in Lochwinnoch

The Howwood Village Fete is a great way to raise funds for your group or promote your business. Stalls cost £20.

Howwood Parish Church: 10am - 12noon

Would you know what to do in an Emergency?

For more information and to book your stall please contact:

“In the community, for the community”

Everyone welcome in 2019!

Sarah Galloway 07982 042654 sarah.galloway@rocketmail.com

Adults £2 | Children free.

♥ 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.

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

World Scone Making Championship

It’s back, it’s a wee bit bigger, and this time it’s fruity! Scone-noisseur of the world, the 2nd World Scone Making Championship, returns to Lochwinnoch on Sunday 17th March!

Can you bake the perfect fruit scone?

Then why not enter the second... Scone-Noisseur Of The World Contest?

Sunday 17th March The Cakery No.5, Main Street, Lochwinnoch

♥ Without resuscitation, cardiac arrest is always fatal ♥ But, performing CPR could double that person’s chance of survival

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

All welcome.

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Heartstart courses are free of charge and it only takes two hours to learn the skills which may someday save a life: ♥ CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) ♥ Heart Attack

♥ Recovery position

♥ 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:

£10 Entry - includes tea towel!

Tuesday 30th April

1pm - 3pm

Contact worldsconemaking@gmail.com for details and download the entry form at https://drive.google.com/open?id=1TkumRhthdhvK7tzbjzHLNOu5mTBGYszr

Tuesday 28th May

7pm - 9pm

Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge

https://www.facebook.com/worldsconemaking

Tuesday 18th June

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

Change is coming to Lochwinnoch Starting Now – Refurbishment Underway!

Due to the efforts of the Change Lochwinnoch Campaign and St. Vincent’s Hospice Volunteers, work is now underway on our charity shop in the heart of the village.

Having hit their ambitious target, the shop is undergoing a complete refurbishment, creating a modern, warm and welcoming space for the community to enjoy while continuing to raise vital funds for our Hospice.

The Change Lochwinnoch project was launched by a group of volunteers in the local community who have close ties to the life changing work of St. Vincent’s Hospice and the importance that donations make to their services.

Our Trading Support Manager, Fiona Campbell, said: “The level of support we receive from the community in Lochwinnoch really is second to none, and we have been blown away by the work and dedication they have put in to make this refurbishment a reality.

“Each year our shops generate more than £400,000 which goes directly towards supporting the work of our Hospice. Not only will these changes to the shop help patients and families all throughout Renfrewshire, but it will also be a hub for the community, a place for people to meet, chat, make new friends and bring people together.

“As the work nears completion, we owe a massive debt of thanks to every single person who has helped make this possible. Thank you!”

For more information on the shops, visit: www.SVH.co.uk kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch SWI Our next meeting is on 20th March at 7.30pm in the McKillop Hall.

This will be the AGM, and afterwards there will be a talk from Glickman’s Sweets. We look forward to welcoming all members and friends to what should be an interesting talk.

For more info please contact Elma Richmond at 843193 or email richmond32@tiscali.co.uk

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Trefoil Guild Afternoon Tea Saturday 23rd March Kilbarchan Guide Centre 2.30pm - 4pm Home Baking & Entertainment Tickets £5 - available from Bobbins SCO33543

Lochwinnoch Masonic Lodge

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Johnstone: Active Communities (Scotland) Ltd., are developing proposals for the Community Asset Transfer and reuse of the former Police Station at Quarry Street as a Health and Wellbeing Hub. This would support redevelopment of a key vacant building within the town centre, providing the local community with greater access to a range of programmes related to health, well being and employability in a central location. Drawings have been presented as part of the feasibility study and a survey of the building is being carried out. Among the objectives of the development there will be space provided for Kairos women’s initiative, development of a Men’s Shed, Community Youth & Health project, Community Café/training kitchen, Fitness Studio, out of school care and crèche facilities etc.

This proposal would definitely be a great asset to the Town and community and I know that Susan McDonald (Chief Executive) would value your help in getting behind this venture and making it a success. For more details contact www. activecommunities.co.uk Howwood: Talking about Asset Transfers, we heard good news at the February community council meeting that positive progress has been made with regard to the transfer of the Play Park to the community. Copies of old documents showing the previous stakeholders of the site were shown to the CC members. Dates for your diaries:- Sat 6th March, Scottish Evening at 6.30pm. Volunteers required.

Village Clean Up, Sat 30th & Sun 31st March, 10am to 12noon.

Lochwinnoch: At a lively Community Council meeting in February, the main topic of conversation/debate was about the planning application 18/0836/ PP from Ashrona Power Systems for the installation of a 1.99MW hydro-power scheme in Lochwinnoch. The developers held a public meeting in the McKillop institute but were met with a barrage of questions with answers that did not satisfy the majority. At the February Community Council meeting a unanimous decision was made to reject the application. A request was made for the elected members to ensure that delegated powers were not enforced and subsequently I applied for the application to be decided by the full Planning Board and have had confirmation that this request has been accepted with agreement by the other three elected members.

Kilbarchan: Concerns are continually being raised about the possibility of removing the traffic island at the Co-op and a disabled parking space being considered. Because of the likely re-siting of the War Memorial that this proposition would entail, it would need further discussion and full consultation with the villagers.

Email: cllr.bill.binks@renfrewshire.gov.uk Tel: 0300 300 1423. Surgeries: Week 1 - Tuesday KILBARCHAN Steeple 6pm/7pm | Week 2 - Tuesday HOWWOOD Village Hall 6pm/7pm | Week 3 - Wednesday JOHNSTONE Town Hall 6pm/7pm | Week 4 - Wednesday LOCHWINNOCH McKillop Institute 6pm/7pm.

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The Advertizer kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

At the recent meetings of Kilbarchan and Howwood Community Councils, potential improvements to the respective public parks were discussed. Available funding will be used to upgrade the parks, and options to be considered include provision of outdoor gym equipment, replacement of park benches and additional play equipment. Discussions with local groups and the wider community, are intended to establish how best to use the money available.

Over recent weeks the Scottish Government's budget has been at the centre of business in the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood.

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

Central to these discussions has been the issue of funding to local councils, with the outcome crucial to how much Renfrewshire has to spend over the coming year. Much of what the Council has received over recent years has been ring fenced for national priorities with the result that there has been less to spend on local services. I hope to report on the content of the Renfrewshire Council's budget in next month's Advertizer.

At the recent Education board meeting, an update was provided on the increase in early learning and child care provision scheduled for August next year. This however did not include detail on any redesign or work required at Lochwinnoch Nursery and Kilbarchan Community Nursery. There is also the issue of possible disruption to the current service while building work takes place. I have asked the Convenor of the Board to produce a report by the beginning of March, which should provide this information, and I have since been advised by officers of the Council that meetings will be held with nursery staff over the next few weeks. Hopefully that will give clarity in regard to a timescale for any necessary work.

There have been some local problems with missed bin collections since the introduction of the new arrangements in December, and in the worst cases grey bins lying unemptied for 6 weeks. Given that there are around 90,000 households across Renfrewshire some missed collections are inevitable, however what is important is how the Council responds to these eventualities. I have had discussions with senior officers from the Council to raise concerns, and seek assurances that there is flexibility in the system to enable a much more immediate response to any future problems. In these discussions I have also sought clarification of the Council's future recycling strategy. In this regard the recycling charter indicates that glass should be separated from plastics.

This would effectively mean the provision of an additional bin over and above the green bin provided back in December. I understand that other councils have introduced such a policy, however, I have been advised that there are currently no plans for Renfrewshire Council to follow suit. In the event of any further changes being considered, I have stressed that the council should this time undertake a public consultation.

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

Gryffe Scottish Country Dance Club Annual Dance The club will be holding a fundraising dance once again, on Tuesday 9th April in the Kilbarchan Guide Centre from 7.30pm to 11pm with music by Marian Anderson. Tickets at the fabulous price of £8 includes a supper and raffle.

Programme:- Yan Tan Tetherer. Burnieboozle. Flower of Glasgow. Farewell to Balfour Road. Lady Charlotte Bruce. Anniversary Reel. Quarrie’s Jig. St Columba’s Strathspey. Grimaldi 700. Jennifer’s Jig. Earl of Mansfield. My Friend Joe. Seton’s Ceilidh Band. Tambourine. Miss Milligan’s Strathspey.

Fingask castle and De’il Amang The Tailors. All dances can be swotted up on YouTube.

Tickets and info. from Les Lambert 01505 704398 or email: leslambert08@ gmail.com

kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Kilbarchan Habbies Art & Craft Fair Kilbarchan Habbies Art Group are holding an art and craft fair on Saturday 6th April in the Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan from 12noon until 3.30pm.

Stalls include attractive jewellery, beautiful cards, amazing wood carvings, unique hand knitting, paintings and much more. You can sit and enjoy tea or coffee and delicious home baking in our tea room.

This year our tea room is being run by two special sisters, Honey (15yrs) and Daisy (16 yrs). The girls are trying to raise funds to enable them, next summer, to join the Pan Charity in the Namibian desert. The aim of the charity is to turn a damaged, 45,000 hectare plot of land into a national park. The enormous amount of work required in restoration and rewilding will, hopefully, result in the successful reintroduction of the endangered black rhino to the area. The girls have to raise £3,000 each, so please come along and help the girls meet their target.

Make a note on your calendar for the 6th of April. We have lovely hand made gifts to buy for yourself or friends at very reasonable prices. You can then relax with a cuppa and a slice of something nice and naughty - but in a very good cause!

We look forward to seeing you there 

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ATTENTION ALL CRAFTERS

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We have some spare tables and would be delighted to welcome anyone with hand crafted goods which they would like to sell. If you would be interested in reserving a table, please ring or text Irene (07936 506034) or Jackie (07768 682611) for further details. It is advisable to reserve a table as soon as possible to avoid disappointment! kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie

Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust Springs into Action!

LCDT is holding its next public meeting on Saturday 30th March, 12noon - 2pm in the Annexe.

The Struthers Water Abstraction Project, part of LCDT, aims to bring money into the village from the sale of spring water abstracted from an area near the existing borehole (which will be capped by the house builders before they begin their work on the old Struthers site).

LCDT is part of the community enterprise movement and aims to support enterprises with social objectives, with benefits that are returned to the community. We are extremely pleased to be launching our consultation process at this public meeting, to create an action plan for community empowerment. We seek to engage with the Lochwinnoch community, to understand how the village feels a community development trust could be of use in the area.

We welcome interested parties, including existing supporters, to attend and find out more on proposed LCDT project but also to share a future vision of the Lochwinnoch Community. We’d like to know what do you like about Lochwinnoch? What efforts should be supported? What could be improved? What is your vision for the village?

What could the development trust do for the community? How can you help to make this happen? This is a big project which will need volunteers in many different capacities.

To look forward we also want to understand and celebrate the past, so we kindly ask if people would bring along to the meeting old photos, films and memories of the village, to share on the day!

We are working on our new website which should be ready soon: (www. lochwinnochtrust.org.uk) It’s an exciting time, so come and join us!

Liz, Bill, Aran and Lesley LCDT communications team Our water supporting our village

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 22-33 VILLAGE_294 MARCH 19.indd 30

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The Kilbarchan Habbies Art Group are holding an Art and Craft Fair on Saturday, 6th April, in the Guide Centre at Barn Green, Kilbarchan between 12noon and 3.30pm.

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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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 Coffee shop/Centre 01505 229597 MONDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 11am - 12.30am (Complete Beginners Class) & Yoga (Weekly) @ 1pm - Mary Laidlaw 01505 229112 | Diaporama @ 7.30pm (11th) R2 | Sewing Group (Weekly) @ 10am - 12noon | Galaxy (own room) Elizibeth Benzie @ 10am - 3pm 11th R4 | Handiwifes @ 7.30pm 18th

WEDNESDAY Gryffe Melody Makers @ 7pm (6th/20th) | Community Council (Monthly) @ 7.30pm 20th | Gryffe Camera Club (Weekly) @ 7.30pm | Young Farmers @ 7pm 13th | Cricketfield Res @ 7pm 13th | Baby Class (MOO MUSIC) (Weekly) @ 10am

Gryffe Quilting Group (Weekly) @ 1.15pm - 3.15pm (21st 10am) | Primary Colours (Weekly) @ 3.30pm – 4.30pm | Crafty Friends (Bi Weekly) @ 7.30pm (7th-21st) | Folk Club (Weekly) @ 8pm iaintdawson@ gmail.com 07786 078952 | Galaxy (Weekly) @ 3.30pm - 7pm | Councillor Surgery (Audrey Doig) @ 7.15pm 28th | Move It or Lose it (Weekly) @ 10.30am - 11.30am FRIDAY Yoga (Weekly) @ 10.30am M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 3.30pm - 7pm | Gavin Newlands M.P. Surgery @ 12.30pm – 1.30pm (8th) SATURDAY Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) @ 9.30am - 5pm | Councillors Surgery(J Sheridan) @ 11.30am – 12noon (2nd) R5 SUNDAY Baptist Church (Weekly) @ 11am and 6pm

Ian Simpson, a driving force in the centre since its inception nearly 25 years ago has now retired. He has also been instrumental in the centre going from strength to strength over that period. We would like to say a BIG thanks for all his effort from all the current and past members at the Carrick Please Note A PORTABLE DEFIB UNIT is available at the West Halls (Church) on Main Street Booking enquiries to: Barry Walker 01505 614039 Bill Haddow 01505 690693 Stewart Scally 01505 674277 hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop

houston, crosslee & brookfield

. . . Houston, Crosslee & Brookfield . . .

TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (Weekly) @ 10am - Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 | Galaxy Dance (Weekly) @ 4pm - 7pm | Yoga (Weekly) @ 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 | Councillor Surgery (Scott Kerr) @ 6.30pm - 7.30pm (5th) | Councillor Surgery (Allison Dowling) @ 12noon 19th | Elizibeth Benzie @ 10am 3pm R2

THURSDAY

Over the last month I was delighted to be present at the inaugural meeting of the new Local Area Partnership for Houston, Brookfield, Bridge of Weir, Elderslie, Kilbarchan, Howwood, and Lochwinnoch. The new partnerships are a flagship policy of the administration and are all about replacing the old Local Area Committees and improving upon them.

Firstly, I would like to say that I think this seven villages LAP is an improvement on our previous LAC which took in Erskine. It makes much more sense to have a LAP which takes in most of the West Renfrewshire villages as they all have similar issues and challenges. Secondly, under the previous LAC system only Ward Cllrs could vote on the issues before the LAC, although community representatives could speak they could not vote. Under the new LAP system this will change and all Community Council Conveners will have a vote, as will other community bodies who apply to be represented on the LAP. This is a radical and very welcome step forward. Just as twelve years ago the LAC system was a big shift from the old system where only a single Ward Cllr determined where the money went from the old Common Good Funds, so now community councils will have the same say as Cllrs.

My advice surgery in Brookfield is on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6.30pm in Brookfield Village Hall, and my advice surgery in Houston is on the 4th Thursday of the month in the Carrick Centre, Houston, at 7.15pm, excluding July and Christmas. But I am also always available to constituents who can call me on 07768 130935, or e-mail me at cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

Churches in Houston ... ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ HOUSTON AND KILLELLAN: Sunday March 3rd - Holy Communion - Morning Service - 11am, Afternoon Service -2pm, Evening Service - 6.45pm | Sunday 10th - Morning Worship - 11am. Sacrament of Baptism - Sunday 17th - Morning Worship - 11am | Sunday 24th - Morning Worship - 11am. Annual Stated Meeting follows this Service - Note our Communion Wine is non alcoholic apart from the common cup. 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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houston, crosslee & brookfield

Houston and Killellan Kirk The REAL Easter Egg – the only one with the Easter story The Real Easter Egg is here to help you celebrate the Real Easter.

Chocolate that tastes good and does good.

Fairtrade chocolate, plastic free, palm oil free, Easter story and activity sheet in each box.

. . . Houston, Crosslee & Brookfield . . .

Through Fairtrade, farmers receive a fair price for their sugar and cocoa and an extra Fairtrade Premium cash payment which they can use to invest in their community, buying everything from schoolbooks to solar panels and providing fresh water supplies.

The sugar comes from co-operatives in Paraguay and Belize. The cocoa comes from co-operatives in the Ivory Coast (Kuapa Kokoo Co-operative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union Limited Ghana). Beans are also sourced from cooperatives in the Dominican Republic, Peru, Panama and Ecuador.

The Cameo Club The Club enjoyed a lovely afternoon when children from Houston and St Fillan’s Primary Schools paid a visit in February, both young and not so young, enthusiastically joined in the games supplied by the Cameo club and the school children. The afternoon finished with tea, juice, biscuits and shortbread.

We thank the children very much for a very happy afternoon and look forward to seeing them again later in the year.

The Club Meets every second Wednesday in the West Halls, Main Street, Houston.

Please feel free to join us any Wednesday you have free.

World Day of Prayer This year the World Day of Prayer will be held in Houston and Killellan Kirk on Friday 1st March at 7.30pm a warm welcome is extended to all.

Houston and Killellan Kirk Carnival SATURDAY 11th MAY - SUPERHEROES

Let’s remind folk that Easter eggs are not about super heroes or TV shows, but relate to new life in Jesus.

But that doesn’t stop us enjoying chocolate! Plain or milk are available and some of the profit goes to charities, including the Leprosy Mission and the Trussell Trust.

Please order in Church on Sunday 24th and 31st March for collection on Sunday 14th April (milk - £3.99 each; dark chocolate £5.30 each).

Or phone 01505 690636 to order Foodbank Appeal: Sunday 10th March!

The Trussell Trust, operating in our area as Renfrewshire Foodbank www.renfrewshire. foodbank.org.uk depends on general public donations for 90% of the food they distribute. While donations are accepted at many locations on a daily basis, Houston & Killellan Kirk collect weekly, but twice a year focus the appeal on two specific Sundays during the year. The next of these is 10th March 2019. (The second appeal is traditionally made at Harvest Thanksgiving each year.)

A typical Food Parcel contains Breakfast Cereals, Soup, Pasta, Rice, Pasta Sauce, Tinned Beans, Tinned Meat, Tinned Vegetables, Tinned Fruit, Tea or Coffee, Sugar, Biscuits & Snacks. The Foodbank tends to run out of UHT Milk, Juice, Tomatoes, Potatoes & Sugar – while they often have a plentiful supply of Pasta, Beans & Soup.

Grateful to those, who wish to support this most deserving initiative, if food donations could be brought to the Kirk at the 11am Morning Service on Sunday 10th March.

The theme this year is SUPERHEROES you can be a superhero of your own. We know about Superman, Spider-Man and Wonder woman to name a few but there are many heroes out there come along to the Kirk Carnival on Saturday 11th May and show off your hero. Join in on the parade and let everyone see you as SUPERHERO. Remember anybody can be a hero.

We will be having numerous stalls something for everybody some new ones and some we have had before. Remember if you are planting seeds for plants please think of our plant stall. Details of other stalls will be in next months issue.

Last year we raised £13,000, the money raised from the Carnival will go to the Kirk and the Community. We would like to see more local groups taking part in the parade this is also a way of making your group or organization known to the community.

At the carnival last year we had a number of local groups performing on an outside stage, Zumba, Country Dancing, Choirs and more if you or your organisation would like to, perform please contact the conveners .

The Carnival Programme is a great way to advertise your business etc, please consider using this to promote your company the programme is distributed in Houston and Crosslee.

Please support the Carnival this is a Community event.

This years co-ordinations are Mike Farley 01505 613314 and Maggie Deans 01505 613737.

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

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 22-33 VILLAGE_294 MARCH 19.indd 32

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

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March 2019 houston, crosslee & brookfield

Heartstart Gryffe

We thank the community and organisations for all their support. We have enjoyed meeting such a variety of people.

Any monies from donations remaining in our account will be divided between BHF and the Heartstart scheme.

If you are interested in a Heartstart course please contact: Angela McNeil on 0141 314 4330 or angela.mcneil@ ggc.scot.nhs.uk 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 Our speaker at our meeting on Wednesday 13th March is Francis Dunlop talking about the Inverclyde Waulking Group. Our AGM and Spring Show will be held on the 10th April.

We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm.

Please come and join us, everyone will be made very welcome. If you wish further information please contact, Arlene MacKay on 07932 459994. 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

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houston, crosslee & brookfield

Brookfield News FAMILY CEILIDH A Family Ceilidh will take place in the Village Hall on Saturday with local 16th March band Clamjamfrie.

The start time is 6pm and tickets are priced at £7 for adults, £3 for children (age 5-18) and under 5’s go free. Tickets are available in advance by telephoning Ruth on 07875 565648 or by e-mailing: brookfieldvpa@gmail.com There will be a licensed bar and a raffle.

. . . Houston, Crosslee & Brookfield . . .

After 11 years of volunteering for Heartstart (a British Heart Foundation initiative) teaching basic Emergency Life Support to just over 1,500 people in the Community, Heartstart Gryffe has decided to retire.

t: 01505 613340

Don’t worry if you don’t know the difference between a Dashing White Sergeant and a Strip the Willow - all the dances will be explained by the band’s expert dance caller so everyone can participate and have a good time.

So whether you’ve got two left feet or you’re a keen dancer, come along on Saturday 16th March and bring your family and friends for an evening of whirling and birling!

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of Brookfield Village Council will be held on Friday 22nd March at 7.30pm in the Village Hall followed by Cheese & Wine.

ART CLUB SHOW

Brookfield Art Club will hold their Annual Show on Sunday 24th March from 12noon - 4.30 pm.

Admission is £1 and there will be a tea room with home baking.

QUIZ NIGHT

Get together with your brainiest family members, friends and/or neighbours and come along to the Quiz Night in the Village Hall on Saturday 27th April! Who will reign supreme this year - can the Brass Necks retain their crown? As before, there German Wire-haired Pointer by Joanna B.Geddes will also be a chance to have a punt on a porker with the added attraction of Pig Racing! Doors/bar from 7pm with the quiz starting at 7.30pm. Admission £3 per person. Max 6 per team. Please email: brookfieldvpa@gmail.com to book. www.facebook.com/brookfieldvillage.org | Twitter: @Brookfieldvpa www.brookfieldvillage.org

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The Advertizer

Why to Neuter Your Pet Rabbits Rabbits are very sociable animals and it is essential for their welfare that they are kept in pairs or groups.

Neutering allows rabbits to live happily together without the risk of unwanted pregnancies or hormone driven aggressive behaviour. The best pairing is usually a neutered male with a neutered female.

Male rabbits should be castrated when 3-5 months old and females should be spayed when 4 to 6 months old.

The main reasons for neutering rabbits are: • Prevent unwanted pregnancies. Rabbits can have a litter of babies every month!

• Reduce aggression towards other rabbits, allowing them to live happily together.

• Prevent male rabbits constantly mounting the female, causing aggression and frustration.

• Prevent uterine adenocarcinomas in females. This is an aggressive malignant cancer which can affect up to 80% of unneutered female rabbits by 5 years of age. Treatment is surgery to remove the uterus but this is higher risk in an older rabbit, and is often too late as the cancer has spread.

• Reduce territorial aggression. Neutered rabbits are less likely to lunge at you or attack you if you put your hand in the hutch!

• Makes litter training easier, which makes it much more pleasant when sharing your home with a house bunny!

• Prevent/reduce urine spray marking, an unpleasant, smelly habit of un-neutered rabbits especially males.

• Prevent false pregnancies in female rabbits which are very stressful for the bunny.

• Prevent/reduce hormone driven aggression towards owners, especially in female rabbits.

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

Flossy - 6 y/o male domestic short-hair Flossy arrived from a multi-cat household where there was over 70 cats so he has not had much socialisation and is therefore a shy, timid lad. He is Flossy looking for a home with an experienced cat owner who has a lot of time and patience to help bring him out of his shell.

He needs somewhere with no children or dogs but he might be ok with other cats. He is used to getting outside so he needs direct access to a garden, not near a busy road, so that he can go out once he’s settled in his new home which will likely take a few months or more.

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

Basil Basil - 3-5y/o male domesic short hair Basil is a handsome cat who is now looking for a new home.

He is a timid, shy chap at the moment and will need a quiet home with owners who are happy and willing to be patient with him and give him the time and space he needs to help build his confidence in people and new environments.

Basil requires an adult only home with outdoor access so that he can explore freely once he has had time to settle in to his new home.

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

Jonny - 5-7 y/o male German Shepard Dog

Neutering is a surgical procedure carried out under general anaesthetic.

Most rabbits will be able to go home on the same day as surgery.

Anaesthesia and surgery does carry some risks but the health and welfare benefits for your bunny far outweigh these.

Article supplied by PetVets

Local Animal Charities

Scottish SPCA Give a Dog a Bone 0141 882 1688 | www.scottishspca.org www.giveadogabone.net Any Dog’il Do Dogs Trust Glasgow www.anydogildorescue.org 0141 773 5130 | www.dogstrust.org.uk Harvey’s Army Scotland Cats Protection harveysarmy.com 0141 779 3341 | www.cats.org.uk Animal Support & Rescue Johnstone Cat Rescue www.animalsupportandrescue.co.uk| 01505 337321 facebook.com/ASARCharity Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Lamont Farm 01505 502415 | www.hessilhead.org.uk www.lamontfarm.org.uk The Underheugh Ark Rescue www.underheugharkrescue.co.uk These centres and many more are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising. If you can help, please get in touch with them.

Jonny

Jonny is instantly friendly with everyone he meets. He loves making new human friends but when it comes to meeting other dogs he can get frustrated so this is something that will need work when he gets home. He must be the only pet in the home.

Jonny is looking for a home with children over the age of 12 years that can give him some space if he needs it. Jonny loves being around people so much that he will do best with someone around most of the day and gradually build it up to a couple of hours. He will need a secure garden to play in and practise his training and it should have a 4ft fence to keep him safe.

Having some experience would be beneficial for Jonny as he will require further training. Jonny will make a great family dog, he will just need some time and patience.

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

NOTE: By time of publishing some of these pets may have been rehomed but there are plenty others looking for their forever home.

Deadline date for for ourour October issueissue - Friday 14th September - you don’t want to miss Deadline date April 2019 - Friday 15th March - you don’t want to miss it!! it!!

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March 2019

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

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!

Here’s a few stunning shots from Paisley Colour Photographic Club Boats in Mist by Robert Fulton

Do you run a local animal charity?

Want to get the word out about fundraising or appeals?

Contact us at info@advertizer.co.uk or call 01505 613340.

10 ways to help hedgehogs

Winter dusk, Berneray by Alison Smart

1. Plant a hedge 2. Make ponds safe 3. Check before strimming 4. Avoid using slug pellets 5. Make a hedgehog house 6. Leave out extra food 7. Grow native plants 8. Retain twigs and leaves 9. Check bonfires 10. Create access holes

Blackmount Ice Paterns by Graeme Dewar

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

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

Ice Bear by Richard Bennett

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

Gryffe Camera Club : Wednesday nights The Carrick Centre, Houston between 7.30pm & 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/ 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

Microchip Details If you have changed any of your contact details such as your phone number or you have moved house, don’t forget to update your pets microchip details.

It could be what helps reunite you with them if they are lost or stolen.

Woodpecker by Iain Gardner

Indentibase Petidentity UK Petlog Pet Protect Pettrac Smarttrac

0190 448 7600 0800 975 1960 0129 633 6579 0800 077 8558 0800 652 9977 0844 542 0999

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Colourful Kilmacolm Snowdrops are welcome harbingers, if not of spring, then at least of the end of the worst of the winter weather, and you have no doubt seen them popping up in your own gardens as well as at the lay-bys, Market Place and the Pullman area, where Colourful Kilmacolm has planted them over the last few years.

At times they were not too visible, half covered by snow or thick frost, but although at these times they let their heads droop to the ground, they always perk up again as soon as the ground thaws a little.

Maybe we would get accustomed to the cold if we had been around for as long as snowdrops have existed.

The turn of the year is our signal to start work again, not so much gardening as clearing the debris and litter that inevitably accumulates, although there is nothing inevitable about discarded whisky bottles, wine glasses and beer glasses. Our own volunteer gardeners will be busy again from springtime, but in the meantime we are grateful to the Explorer Scouts who help us over the winter months. Our picture shows them after the big January clear-up.

Keep an eye open for our displays of bulbs. We are trying some new ideas this year and will be watching closely to see how well they do.

Colourful Kilmacolm is open to everyone. If you have not yet joined, the very modest £5 annual subscription will support our efforts. You can opt just to be a supporter, or to be an ‘active gardener’ and help with planting, weeding etc. It’s also another way to make new friends. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can phone Peter (01505 872448) or Liz (07963 973031).

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

Gardens in March After a cold and at times snowy last few months, fingers crossed that winter is finally on its way out and that March sees us into spring and slightly warmer weather.

This month in the garden there is a huge amount of pruning to be done.

Many shrubs that flower late on current seasons growth can be pruned and shaped this month. One such shrub, which we have a number of in the walled garden, is buddleia. These can be cut down to the lowest healthy buds and during the growing season will put on a huge amount of growth, with established specimens easily reaching 12 feet in height. These are fantastic plants for any garden and varieties are available for every size of garden. They are particularly useful in a wildlife garden and will often be seen covered in butterflies when flowering in August.

By far the highlight of a visit to Finlaystone at this time of year is the fantastic display of daffodils. While snowdrops flower in the middle of winter, the daffodil always indicate that winter has passed, and that spring has definitely arrived. As always bunches of cut daffodils will be for sale at the visitor centre. They can also be ordered in advance by contacting the visitor centre.

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

Membership Annual Memberships running from April 1st, 2019 are available for purchase at the visitor centre.

Tea room The tearoom is open at weekends and bank holidays.

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March 2019

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RSPB Lochwinnoch Did you know though that there are two dates for the start of Spring? There is the Astronomical spring and the Meteorological spring.

The Metrological Spring starts on Friday 1st March (as perhaps you would expect!)

It is measured by our monthly calendar, known as the Gregorian Calendar. This allows our year to be easily split into the 4 seasons, each lasting 3 months.

The Astronomical Spring (known as the Vernal equinox) happens this year on Wednesday 20th March. An equinox is when the length of day and nights is almost equal. This happens twice a year when the Sun is directly over the Earth’s equator – once in Spring and once in Autumn.

If you want to find out more about the stars and galaxies up in the night sky, why not come along to our Astronomy evening on Friday 15th March? The speakers will be from the Astronomical Society of Glasgow.

Much of our wildlife responds to the Astronomical calendar. Increasing light levels (and sometimes increasing temperatures) at this time of year triggers a response - in birds this may be breeding behaviour, and in plants it can trigger rising sap that swells buds and starts new growth. If you are interested in trying to capture some of this spring activity with your camera, you may be interested in our Wildlife Photography Workshop – Beginner Level, on Sunday 10th March.

Richard Sutcliffe

Local Lepidoptera (some Butterflies and Moths of the Glasgow Area) - An illustrated talk.

Friday 5th April @ 7.30pm McMaster Centre Donaldson Drive Renfrew PA48LX

All welcome.

Andy Shand Birds, Buddhism and Blue Whales - an illustrated talk Friday 1st March @ 7.30pm McMaster Centre Donaldson Drive Renfrew PA4 8LX All Welcome

Open Day Sunday 24th March from 11am – 3pm Come along to visit us at our beautiful reserve, and see the amazing wildlife.

Kids can play in the natural play area, explore our fairy trail, have a go at pond dipping and take part in our treasure hunt.

Everyone can walk the trails and enjoy the beautiful views whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife. Come along for a fun day out!

Free Event Tel: (01505) 842663 Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk

For more information about the reserve or any of our events, please call 01505 842 663 or email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society We began 2019 with a talk on plants from Lanzarote, one of the Spanish-administered islands in the Canary Islands lying off the West Africa Saharan coast. Ewen Brown, of Desertscapes Cactus & Succulent Nursery, gave us an audio/visual presentation with sounds of the blustery, searing winds, which blow over the island, resonating around the room. Lanzarote is a fearsome place for all but the toughest of plants but we did see Bougainvillea and Pelargoniums growing round houses and roundabouts. The winners here are the desert dwelling cacti, Agaves, Aloes, Aeoniums, Euphorbias and succulents.

The Jardin de Cactus is the creation of local artist and architect, Cesar Manrique. He favoured a minimalist style to reflect the island’s austere beauty. This is a must for cacti lovers for here, in an old quarry scooped out of the inhospitable volcanic terrain, can be found a garden dedicated to cacti. The varieties are amazing: round or barrel-shaped and spiny, tall and columnar and spiny, branching, creeping or climbing – and spiny. Some are smooth and others are furry but each and every one has a specific and detailed pattern which is perhaps the most remarkable part of the cactus. Flowers are spectacular but brief.

Viticulture is a surprise cultivation on Lanzarote but an important one to the wine-loving islanders. Vineyards are designed like honeycombs and built with small, circular stone walls with one vine planted behind each wall for protection from the winds.

In March we will hear from Sandra Halliday about ‘Designing Your Garden’. If you are new to gardening, or changing layouts, come along and get some ideas. We meet on Thursday 14th March at The Bridge at 8pm. Guests are always welcome! We are busy organising our Annual Flower Show for August - watch this space.

Gardening tips for early March - check trees and shrubs for Winter damage and prune broken or diseased branches. Cut hard back shrubs which are grown for Winter colour such as Dogwood (Cornus), Willows and Whitewash Brambles.

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Welcome to Clyde Murshiel Regional Park Give Back on Practical Conservation Days: Muirshiel Country Park’s sikta spruce brashings need cutting piling and burning. It’s great fun and often results in a huge fire! That’s on Saturday 23th March, 10.30am until 3pm.

Stargazing Evenings: It’s the last date of the winter season on 11th March, at Castle Semple in Lochwinnoch. Book your place online today for just £5 (children 10-16 yrs are £2.50) and look forward to an evening of stars, planets and other astronomical features.

Pedal the Park 2019: Taking place on Sunday 5th May, online entry is open for this popular 100km sportive. £20 entry with £7.50 CLIC Sargent donation included via the British Cycling website.

Best of luck to the SOGB Sailing Team: Our Senior Instructor and Sailing Team Coach David Hill has been busy training up the local youngsters for the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. We’re looking forward to seeing their participation in the media from 14th - 21st March.

Clyde Muirshiel Conservation Volunteers: Greenock Cut Volunteers are every Saturday 10.30am - 2.30pm; Duke of Edinburgh Volunteers are every Sunday morning 10am - 12noon; Castle Semple Volunteers can be either at Castle Semple or Muirshiel. Look online for full programmes.

Plan Your Most Adventurous Year Yet: 2019 course dates are now online! Book via our website for sailing and paddlesport courses for adults including 2 hour evening tasters, 1/2 day long tuition and recognised powerboating qualifications. Also for the kids there are our school holiday (hugely popular!)

Junior Multi Activity Weeks in Spring, Summer and October holidays. There are also child/youth specific paddlesport and sailing 1 day and 2 day courses.

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.

Dates for the Diary: 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 Oct. 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-n-Track Project Officer Hayley Douglas. TnT is funded by Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.

Project News Things have been pretty quiet with our gulls at the moment. The four that are still online have settled into their wintering grounds and we have had sightings of Luke Skysquawker in Huevla, Spain at the fish market. We expect them and the gulls whose tags have gone temporarily offline to remain in Spain and Portugal until March. The gull news has been a bit more exciting back home with reports of 5 different species of gulls from overseas, including America, all overwintering at different spots in the Clyde area including Luke’s old stomping ground at Strathclyde Park.

The really exciting news belongs to the Ivory Gull. Ivory gulls are a species from the high Arctic which usually frequent the pack ice and scavenge on dead seals and other bits and pieces.

They are pure white and look like a common gull on steroids. There are less than 100 records of this species being spotted in Scotland with the last one in this area being seen at Torranyard in 2007. So it was a big surprise for the staff at Hessilhead to open a box from Stranraer and find an adult ivory gull inside. The gull had no signs of any injuries but was very underweight. After a couple of weeks of eating whitebait and herring the gull was just shy of 600g, almost double its arrival weight. We at Tag-n-Track had the pleasure of taking measurements and ringing the gull before its release the next day at Stevenson Point where over 130 birders came to watch from all over the country. The gull flew out the box, sat on the grass for about half a minute then took off strongly. It was last seen heading north up the coast and fingers crossed that it makes it home successfully.

Event News We are planning on a ringing demo at Muirshiel in March.

At the moment we can’t confirm a date so please keep an eye on the website and Facebook for further details.

More Info… Details can be found on the Park’s website www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/tag-n-track or by emailing tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. The Project also has its own Facebook Page which can be found at www.facebook.com/TagnTrack/. We are happy to come along and deliver talks about the project, just get in touch.

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

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Kilbarchan Smile Kilbarchan Smile is a friendly volunteer community group has achieved a huge amount since being established in 2015. The aim of Kilbarchan Smile is to improve the appearance of the village and build community spirit, making it an even better place to live, work and visit. Group activities have included litter clean-ups and addressing dog-fouling issues. Bulb planting and tending areas of greenspace have contributed to adding colour where opportunities have been available. A major focus has been on developing the Gateway Garden by the A737 roundabouts on the former filling station brownfield site. This community garden is regularly open and provides opportunities for adults and children to be involved in growing plants and vegetables in containers throughout the year. We currently have some raised bed growing spaces available if you want to grow some of your own plants.

WE NEED YOUR HELP Our very committed active members are still small in number. Do you want to make a difference to your village? Get involved with Kilbarchan Smile and help in the community garden, with admin, PR, Photography, digital and social media or supporting litter and dog poo campaigns. This can be done as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards volunteering section or through your employer if they have a volunteering provision as part of their Continuous Professional Development.

Activities are planned by a steering group who meet every 1 to 2 months, usually in the Old Library community facility. Kilbarchan Smile has an active Facebook Page as a channel for community news, events and comment.

We welcome new participants, and have further ambitions, as there is great potential for achieving much more for Kilbarchan. Please contact us on 07952 169341, email hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk ,through the Old Library or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook. If you would like to come along to find out more and meet some of the volunteers (without obligation) our next meeting is on 25th April at 7.30pm at the Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan.

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Work parties all start at 2pm in Garden • 31st March - start to plant barrels (March planting plugs Willie will let us know dates and times) • 28th April - Planting village and baskets • 26th May - Planting for gala • 8th June - Gala day Sensory garden and nature friendly developments We have applied for Big Lottery funding to develop the garden to include a sensory garden to support the Lochwinnoch Dementia Friendly Village project. A sensory garden would aim to stimulate the senses courtesy of plants and the use of materials that engage people’s senses of sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. In addition, we are growing many plants to support bees, butterflies and wildlife in the garden and in the containers around the village.

Golf club and Primary School Liz Parsons is meeting with golf club to discuss wild flower planting in the rough by primary school and in return the pupils will get a golf lesson.

Brighter Bridge Of Weir MARCHING ON Some readers may remember a time when there used to be four distinct seasons. It was predictable; you could set your calendar by it. Things are much more, well, interesting, now. We never seem to know what’s going to happen from one month – one week – to the next. But hey, who said that Brighter Bridge of Weir’s volunteers weren’t up to a challenge?

As we wrote in last month’s Advertizer, our plans have been laid and our order has now been sent to the nursery for delivery in May. In the meantime, we’ll be giving something of a makeover to the Torr Road Garden, trying to avoid standing on the bulbs that should be showing themselves soon.

We’ll also be taking delivery of some young native trees to plant in various locations.

Readers may also remember the plans we have for the funding awarded to us by the Historical Society for a project in the village. We’ve had constructive talks with the appropriate departments of Renfrewshire Council, who are very supportive of our aims, and we’ll keep you posted about that. For now, perhaps the rest of this season will continue to be contrary and we won’t be troubled much by the winds for which March used to be notorious.

Bridge of Weir Hillwalkers

If you’re a member of the public wanting to enjoy some fresh air in a local park, or a dog walker, hill walker, mountain biker, horse rider or kayaker, there is information for you and much more. https://www. outdooraccess-scotland.scot/

Wildlife Crime Liaison Officer These officers can be contacted to report crime or to seek advice on wildlife crime matters. Call Police Scotland on 101 to report a wildlife crime or email us at Contactus@ scotland.pnn.police.uk.

BoWHW have had real luck with the weather so far this year and have enjoyed outings to Ben Ledi, the Ayr coastal trail and Loch Lomond. All of these have been well attended and we have welcomed in two new participants.

In March, we are looking forward to trips to Glen Almond, Ben Donich

by Arrochar and a round in Glen Branter.

We are now running two Monday walks and a Sunday walk per month and are looking forward to weekends in Braemar and a new venue for us - the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Anyone wishing to come along and stretch the legs and discover a rich legacy of coffee shops can find us on Facebook or at: donwwsmith@gmail.com

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Step forward for Olympic athletes’ new home in Renfrewshire

Weight Loss Plans

Plans to build a state-of-the-art athletics facility in Renfrewshire have taken a step forward after councillors backed a Community Asset Transfer to Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club (AAC).

There isn’t a one size fits all strategy. There are many different eating plans that may help you to achieve your goals in a way that fits in with your lifestyle. However, the ones that will set you up for success have some common features.

More than 4,000sqm of land will be transferred to the local club to progress plans for a £1.3million indoor facility, which would allow year-round training and be built alongside the outdoor track and field facilities at Linwood’s On-X sports centre.

There are so many choices now when it comes to weight loss plans – cutting carbs, weighing food, intermittent fasting, keto diet and countless other ideas that dieticians, personal trainers, health coaches and friends might suggest.

1. They preserve aspects of your current lifestyle.

Trying to overhaul your diet all at once will likely backfire. If you try to remove things from your diet that are a big part of it, you will struggle.

Look for healthier versions and make small sustainable changes. For example, if you love sandwiches, try switching to whole-wheat bread, or removing one slice and creating an open-sandwich, instead of stopping them altogether. You’re more likely to stick to this and see results.

The proposed indoor training centre would provide the club with: • a 60m running track; • Pole vault; • Club room;

• Horizontal and vertical jumps • Indoor throws cage - including javelin; • Strength and conditioning area

Two of the clubs most high-profile members are Olympians Callum and Derek Hawkins who represented Great Britain in the Marathon at the 2016 Rio Olympics - with Callum finishing in 9th place.

2. They incorporate flexibility.

Plans with choices are ideal. They are more likely to suit your lifestyle and encourage you to continue. Polarised views of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ foods often leads to binges and cravings that inevitably cause failure.

Prioritise nutritious changes but allow the flexibility of life with it. If you get invited out for a meal you don’t want to be the one refusing to go or sitting eating the leafy green salad with no dressing on it.

Jim Goudie, Kilbarchan AAC Immediate Past President, said: “This development would offer us the opportunity to train in any weather, allyear-round, and make the On-X Centre a complete facility for elite and club athletes in Renfrewshire.

“We want to bring as many people as we can into athletics and having this indoor facility will give people the chance to take up the sport, while keeping younger athletes from becoming disheartened with training sessions cancelled or in the pouring rain.

“We’ve had four Olympians pass through our club so far and we want to give our members the best possible chance to follow in their footsteps - and this facility would do just that.”

3. They encourage physical activity.

Weight loss isn’t solely about eating. The best plans highlight the importance of physical activity. It can increase metabolism and help burn calories, ultimately helping you hit that caloric deficit that will facilitate fat loss. A combination of good eating and physical activity is when the results will happen.

4. They acknowledge the journey.

Weight loss is never linear, and if you hit a plateau you shouldn’t feel as though you have failed. Plans that focus on a numeric result may under value the work that you have put in. View the process as a journey and notice other changes (other than the scale!) such as changes in energy levels, clothes fitting differently, sleeping better, feeling happier or feeling more confident. This is the journey you want to embrace.

In addition to the transfer of the land lease, the project has been allocated £500,000 by Renfrewshire Council to support the development which will provide facilities for both elite and club runners across Renfrewshire. scottishathletics have identified the proposal as an important project within the National Facilities Strategy - which aims to provide athletics with numerous top-class facilities throughout the country to maximise participation and increase standards of performance in all disciplines.

Lesley Handley, FitSmart Fitness Ltd.

Head of Development for scottishathletics, Colin Hutchison, said: “As the governing body for athletics in Scotland we are fully behind Kilbarchan’s proposed facility development and are excited about the opportunities it will present for the club and athletics in Renfrewshire.

Gryffe Valley 10K Run

“The commitment from the club’s volunteers to get the project to this stage has been phenomenal and we are all extremely grateful to the generous funders that are contributing to the project. The facility will be vital to continue growing athletics in Renfrewshire and the indoor facility will greatly enhance the club’s capacity to develop their young athletes year-round.”

Sunday 19th May at 1pm Route on country lanes between Houston, Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm, starting from Houston Public Park, for all abilities from serious runners to novices/joggers Register: https://entries.runabc.co.uk/listed-races/gryffe-valley-rotary-10k in aid of:

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Castle Semple Sailing Club New Year’s Day Sail

What a lovely start to the new year, beautiful clear blue sky, bright warm sunshine shared with lots of friends at the Club - and a gentle breeze for a sail for those still recovering from the drama of Sunday when there were numerous capsizes after the wind increased to something a lot stronger than the forecast Leo was first boat out on the water - being spotted out long before midday - he won a bottle of whisky.

Most people enjoyed the bacon rolls before moving on to Alice’s delicious ham hock soup.

5 boats were out on the water - Leo was heading up some sort of game sailing in between the rowing buoys most of the way to Howwood. The B14 was last back just before the sun went down but was caught on camera sailing through a rainbow - magic! Let’s take that as a good omen for the start of another successful year for Castle Semple Sailing Club!

Thanks to Calum Simmonds and Eleanor Davison for the photos.

Whacky Winchester Winter Pursuit Series Racing one Sunday during the winter began quietly enough with 7 boats starting Race 1. However, it wasn’t long before the wind increased. The Master out in his EPS was soon in trouble round buoy 2 taking some time to get the boat upright ( he should take some lessons from Jon “I never get wet when I capsize” Hasler) - he subsequently retired from the race later declaring that the boat was for teenagers and not someone of his age...

Meanwhile Brian in the Vareo was not faring too well either although he did finish the race, he was soon wishing his trusty loyal crew Alan had been around to sail the MV2. Leo retired after at least one capsize. Meanwhile Mark in the dart was having a ball, although he admitted he did nearly pitchpole approaching buoy 6 - lucky he didn’t as he would most likely have landed on Team GP... who decided it was safer to tack rather the gybe at this particular point, meanwhile Team Pam was out in front leading the pack.

The course of 1, 2, 7,3, 6 and the wind meant that the Enterprise and GP were planing across the loch from 7 to 3 - yeee haa! However Hugh in the Phantom had had a couple of capsizes before the boat at the misfortune to have the bow come apart from the hull...and a subsequent tow back. At the finish, only Team Pam, the Dart and Team GP had survived without a capsize, although the GP14 had saved their capsize for after the race...

The usual start time for the second race of 1pm was delayed until 1.30pm to allow people to recover and plan tactics - needless to say the Master’s trusty Vortex which had been mothballed for a few weeks was quickly rigged and ready for action. The fleet was now reduced to 5 (minus the laser and damaged phantom). The wind had reduced a little but not a lot. It wasn’t long before the Master was back in his preferred pole position, Brian decided enough was enough and retired from the race sending wishful thoughts to his much loved MV2. With the Master way out in front, the minutes were ticking by, the Dart was closing in, as was the Enterprise on the GP14...rounding buoy 7 the Dart was away, the GP held its lead over the Enterprise approaching and rounding buoy 3, but the Enterprise was getting ever closer... the race ended with the GP just in front. Contact us via our website www.castlesemplesc.co.uk

Kilmacolm Golf Club Ladies On 5th February the annual Charity Bridge afternoon in aid of Erskine Hospital raised an amazing £1,019.

We had 19 tables for bridge with 72 ladies playing, followed by a delicious afternoon tea, raffle and prize giving. Our bridge ladies said it was the “best afternoon tea they had tasted at Kilmacolm”, well done and thanks to our wonderful kitchen staff.

Margaret Houston won first prize, very well done.

This successful fundraiser has been in our social calendar for 50 years and long may it continue. Many thanks to everyone for their support again and to Maura Harkness for donating the beautiful flowers. Also a huge thank you to our Lady Captain Rosemary for organising the afternoon and of course to the Ladies Committee who successfully ran the day.

Glasgow Kiltwalk

The fundraising team at ACCORD Hospice are looking for supporters for this year’s Glasgow Kiltwalk on Sunday 28th April. The Kiltwalk has been developed and under-written by Sir Tom Hunter and The Hunter Foundation. Their support will enable 140% of the sponsorship money to go directly to their charity or local cause. Every walker can select the charity or local cause that they wish to donate to.

Choose between the Mighty Stride (26 mile walk), the Big Stroll (13 mile walk) or the Wee Wander (6 mile walk). Register online at www.thekiltwalk. co.uk and during the registration process, remember to select ACCORD Hospice as your chosen charity! We will then receive notification of your registration and send you out your fundraising pack.

For any further information, please contact the fundraising team by emailing: fundraising@accord.org.uk or call 0141 581 2000.

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Ranfurly Castle Golf Club News Scottish Golf Young Persons Golf Panel Ranfurlys’ Gregor Rawson has been selected to sit on the newly formed Scottish Persons Young Golf Panel at Scottish Golf – designed to create a forum for junior golfers to feedback to key decision makers and shape the future of the game, the panel will meet and discuss all aspects of growing junior golf within Scotland. Everyone at Ranfurly Castle is proud of Gregor for being selected!

Tom Eckford – 25th Year Anniversary Ranfurly Castle are delighted to recognise the 25th year anniversary of the appointment of our resident PGA Advanced Professional Tom Eckford.

Tom joined the club in January 1994 and has been at the heart of the club ever since. He continues to offer a great service to members and visitors alike and works tirelessly to deliver essential club services.

Houston United Medal Ceremony On January the 6th, The River Inn hosted Houston United’s 2010, 2011 and 2012’s for their end of season medal ceremony day. Over 200 players and parents attended for lunch along with club chairman Louis Jeffery and, the teams away strip sponsor ALVIC SLIDING WARDROBES attending. The players and parents were firstly entertained by a Magician with lunch and a raffle following. The raffle raised over £500 for the teams. Over 60 players across the three age groups received their league medal and were treated to a video of themselves training, the video had been filmed and edited by one of the coaches, Dennis Liu. It was an amazing event for all involved and the teams would like to thank Jason Andrews and his staff at the River Inn for making the event run so smoothly.

Houston United continues to grow in numbers and strength.

During the month of January the club was also awarded the SFA Quality Mark Award in the Gold Community Level. One of only four clubs in the SFA West Region achieving this high standard.

On behalf of everyone here at the club – many thanks for your continued hard work and dedication!

Houston Utd has recently formed a girls team which has already grown to over 30 girls across 4 age groups, and continues to grow on a weekly basis. They also received help with their setup from Suzanne at PARIS HAIR & BEAUTY Co who sponsored the girls team.

Ladies News The Ladies section held their AGM on Saturday 19th January with over 40 ladies present. Out going Captain Marion Munro gave a full recap of the events of the 2018 season and thanked all those who had represented the Club in the various team events and all who had assisted her in her year of office. She welcomed Jan Macnab as the new Lady Captain and presented her with the badge of office.

Jan outlined her plans for the 2019 playing season before presenting the Trophies to all the worthy winners. Marion then presented Jan with her Club Champions Trophy along with a souvenir flag as a memento.

The Captains Drive In took place on Saturday 26th January followed by the first playing of the Captains Quaich.

Junior Captain Iain MacLean, Lady Captain Jan Macnab and Club Captain David Stewart started their year of office in front of an appreciative crowd at the first tee in dry, blustery conditions but sadly this did not last and the competitors battled very wet conditions for the 9 hole competition.

Congratulations go to the brave who played all nine holes. The outcome was very close fought with Senga Nixon runner up on 21 points and Martin McGoldrick the winner with a better inward half.

The photo shows the outgoing Captain, Alastair Fyfe, presenting the Trophy to Martin along with David Stewart.

The ladies are holding their Annual Bridge event at the club on Wednesday 13th March beginning at 2pm. The cost is £28 per table which includes afternoon tea and it is open to all ladies and gents who would like to play.

It is not too late to phone and book a table.

As the club continues to grow it requires your help and support, Houston Utd are currently looking for any parents to be involved with helping/coaching in particular to assist with setting up a 2013 team. Anybody interested should contact the club via their Facebook page or on the website. www.houstonunitedfc.com

Howwood Curling Club Come & Try Event “Get Inspired” - Come & Try curling on 6th March You’ve seen it being played at on the TV. You can now Come & Try It yourself. Howwood Curling Club are always looking for new members to join our friendly curling club which meets at Greenacres, near Howwood. It is a great way to keep fit and socialise with people in a friendly atmosphere.

Current club members come from Renfrewshire, Glasgow and North Ayrshire. We are now looking for new players to play for the 2019/20 season.

We have organised a Come & Try session on Wednesday 6th March at 8.30pm at Greenacres curling club. Anyone who is interested is welcome to come along and try out curling. No experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome, whatever your age or ability. We will provide a qualified coach to give you the tuition you need to try out curling. You will also meet with our club members and get to play. If you continue to be interested following the Come & Try, we will invite you to our closing bonspiel for the 2018/19 season on the 27th March.

All the equipment you need will be provided. The cost on the night for ice is £6pp.

Please contact Lachie Carmichael if you wish to attend by email: lachiedcarmichael@ hotmail.com or phone 01294 823643

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FOOTBALL 5-a-side Football

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.

KEEP FIT

Child car seats: the law

Zumba Light

Using a child car seat or booster seat Children must normally use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first.

Children over 12 or more than 135cm tall must wear a seat belt.

You can choose a child car seat based on your child’s height or weight.

Height-based seats - known as ‘i-Size’ seats. They must be rear-facing until your child is over 15 months old. Your child can use a forward-facing child car seat when they’re over 15 months old.

You must check the seat to make sure it’s suitable for the height of your child.

Only EU-approved height-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘R129’.

Weight-based seats - Only EUapproved weight-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘ECE R44’.

You may be able to choose from more than one type of seat in the group for your child’s weight.

Mondays - St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm, 10am Suitable for all fitness levels. Tel: 07505 126416 for more information.

Zumba

Tuesdays - Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, 7.45pm

Entry level class suitable for all fitness levels. Come dance yourself fit at Zumba, no experience necessary! Contact Diane 07943 862775.

Move it or Lose it! FABS Fitness more than just a Fitness Class for the over 60’s. Come and join the fun! First class is free. To check availability please contact Fiona on 07811 766672.

Tues - Cargill Hall, BoW, 10.30am Tues - West Burn Church, Greenock 2pm Thurs - Old Library, Kilbarchan, 2.30pm Thurs - Carrick Centre, Houston, 10.30am New Classes starting in March.

From Monday 4th March, 3.15pm - 4.15pm, Old Gourock and Ashton Parish Church, Islay Hall.

From Wednesday 20th March, Early Bird Class, 9.15am - 10.15am Scout Hall, Canal Street, Johnstone www.moveitorloseit.co.uk

Pilates classes

Mondays - St Machars Church Hall, Bridge of Weir 9.30am & 10.40am.

Kilmacolm Community Centre 6.30pm Tel: Yvonne 07786 224367 or yvonne@ clydephysiotherapy.co.uk

Mondays - Kilellan Halls Houston 6.15pm - 7.15pm & 7.30pm - 8.30pm

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 jennifer-mcghee@hotmail.co.uk

Katie Black Pilates and Physiotherapy

Pilates classes Monday Evenings in Killellan Hall, Houston. 6pm - 7pm, 7.20pm - 8.20pm and 8.30pm - 9.30pm.

To book contact Katie on 07972 474965.

MARTIAL ARTS The Shotokan Karate Club

Woodlands Primary, Linwood Mondays & Thursdays - 7pm - 8pm/8pm - 9pm

Child’s weight Group Seats 0kg to 10kg 0 Lie-flat or ‘lateral’ baby carrier, rear-facing baby carrier, or rearfacing baby seat using a harness 0kg to 13kg 0+ Rear-facing baby carrier or rear-facing baby seat using a harness 9kg to 18kg 1 Rear- or forward-facing baby seat using a harness or safety shield 15kg to 25kg 2 Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield 22kg to 36kg 3 Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield Manufacturers can now only make booster cushions approved as group 3.

This won’t affect any existing booster cushions in group 2 and you’ll still be able to use them.

Fitting a child car seat You must only use a child car seat if your car’s seat belt has a diagonal strap, unless the seat is either: specifically designed for use with a lap seat belt fitted using ISOFIX anchor points You must also: deactivate any front airbags before fitting a rear-facing baby seat in a front seat not fit a child car seat in side-facing seats

LEAP Car Club Your car cost over £100 a week on average.

• Join LEAP Car Club from £5 a month.

• Hire by the hour 24/7 • Pay-As-You-Go • Cut your car costs.

Contact: mike@myleapproject.org T: 0300 020 0639

The Child Car Seats website has information on how to choose a seat and travel safely with children in cars.

Children with disabilities or medical conditions The same rules apply for children with disabilities or medical conditions, but they can use a disabled person’s seat belt or a child restraint designed for their needs.

A doctor can issue an exemption certificate if a child is unable to use a restraint or seat belt because of their condition. https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seatsthe-rules

www.linwoodkarate.co.uk

Taekwon-Do - Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6pm Call 07951 365166 for details.

DANCE Bishopton Belles Line Dancing

Tuesdays - Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30pm - 8.30pm

SPORTS Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton

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

Gryffe Badminton

Monday - Kilmacolm Guide Hut, Woodrow Ave 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Mondays - BOW Primary School, Warlock Road, 7.30pm - 9.30pm

Tuesdays - Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm

Greenock Hockey Club

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

ATHLETICS Kilbarchan Athletic Club - On-X, Linwood, Mondays & Thursdays, 7pm All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990.

Fitsteps with Jen

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

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

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Bridge of Weir Primary School Olympic Athlete Visits our School by Tristan Mills P6a “A great school - one of the most organised and well behaved I’ve been to. Brilliant energy during exercise and a credit to the teachers.”

These are the words of Chris Bennett, the hammer thrower, who visited our school in January.

While he was here he talked to us about his experience of being an Olympic athlete. He was an inspiration to us - he trains hard every day, and has kept going even when things have been difficult. A few people are now interested in hammer throwing after the fascinating answers he gave to our questions. We all loved his circuit training and it certainly kept us active in the cold months!

Mrs Semple ‘Retires’ Mrs Semple “retired” from being a parent helper in February, marking the end of an era at school. Phyllis has been coming to school to help out in classes, decorate walls, support pupils in group work, organise library books for Primary 1, and help with a host of other tasks for 20 years. She started coming even before her own sons were in primary and continued long after they moved on to high school.

St Fillan’s Primary Pyjama Day On Friday 25th January there was a great deal of excitement in St Fillan’s as children were dropped off at school looking like they had just gotten out of bed! Of course, it was “Pyjama Day” and the “School Improvement Committee” had organised the event to raise funds to purchase new House mascots.

House identity is very important to our House and Vice captains as House events and special treats can be achieved by Houses working together as a team to earn as many House points as they can. House Captains plan to work with their House to name their mascot and give their furry friend an identity with a personality, sense of style and unique set of skills and talents.

Co-op Reopens

Her commitment, enthusiasm, and cheerful smile will be sorely missed…as will her amazing tablet!

Primary 1 presented Mrs Semple with some lovely gifts to show their appreciation for everything she’s done for our school. We wish her well as she moves on to explore other interests in her life.

Duchal Nursery School

We were delighted to be invited along to help re-open the co-op in Houston following a fire a few months ago. We were joined by the crew from Amber Watch, Johnstone Fire Station and there were smiles all round as the store re-opened its doors. Many of our families missed the convenience of having the Co-op on our doorsteps and we are all grateful that nobody was seriously hurt in the fire. We had a great time at the re-opening and even got a shot in the fire engine!

There have been lots of noodles and chopsticks in Duchal recently, both proving a great hit with the children while celebrating Chinese New Year. We made lanterns and even a huge Chinese Dragon that was spotted walking around Birkmyre Park!

With spring nearly here we are delighted with the gorgeous flash of colour outside the nursery as the snowdrops and daffodils poke their heads out. Thank you so much to Colourful Kilmacolm who donated the bulbs and assisted the children with planting them last year. The children have been fascinated watching them steadily grow.

Our 50th Anniversary Ball is being held on 16th March at Mar Hall and we have been overwhelmed with the support of former pupils, parents, staff and friends of Duchal who are going to join us in the celebrations, it will be a truly magnificent occasion.

The children are all getting involved too creating some decorations for the night!

We had a great Open Morning with lots of new families visiting, if you were unable to make it and would like to pop in for a visit please get in touch and we can arrange a convenient time.

We are now offering places for the intake in August 2019. If your child will be of nursery age after the summer and you are looking at your pre school options, please do get in touch to have an informal look around. With our extended hours we are open daily 8.15am – 3.30pm, offering greater flexibility of care for parents. Please visit our website for more information – www.duchal.com and find us on Facebook. If you would like to come and visit the Nursery please get in 01505 874358 or email: info@duchal.com

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Mary’s Meals Our children are always eager to help those less fortunate than themselves and this month was no exception. A group of girls from Primary 4 organised a children’s raffle and they purchased their own prizes to be gifted to the winners. The event was a great success with children eager to buy their lucky tickets! It’s always nice to see our children using their initiative and living our values in their thoughts, words and actions. Well done girls!

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

21/02/2019 12:41:44

March 2019

t: 01505 613340

Kilmacolm playgroup EVERY

MONDAY

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers 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 £2 contribution. Tea, coffee & biscuits.

Bridge of Weir Toddlers

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am

Kilmacolm Playgroup

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

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

Another busy month at Playgroup saw us learning all about colours and shapes. The children made their very own shape mobiles for their rooms. We spent a whole week looking at The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and even had a trip to the local library where we followed the Gruffalo trail while reading the book. A huge thank you once again to Pamela and Shona at Kilmacolm library for hosting this. Back at playgroup the children made Gruffalo puppets and we made our own chocolate crispie Gruffalo paws. A fun time was had by all.

Playgroup is open to all children from 2 years 4months and operates on a Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 9.30am 11.30am.

Spaces available. Please email Iona on: playgroupmembership@gmail. com for more details.

Are you a new parent, or new to our village or surrounding villages, our baby & toddler group is open as a drop in session every Wednesday morning from 10am - 11.30am. Pop in for a hot drink and cake while your child enjoys a play, a healthy snack is also provided for children.

A great chance to meet new friends and find out all about our fabulous group. Open to all parents, carers and Grandparents.

For more information on any of our groups: kilmacolmplaygroupand toddlers. jimdo.com or check out our Facebook page for latest information.

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

e: info@advertizer.co.uk

Houston Toddlers Pamper We have been Night having lots of fun at toddlers Gryffe High r e ce n tl y with some School Va l e n t i n e ’ s day crafts.

The boys and girls making something for someone special.

We have mother’s day and Easter themed activities coming soon.

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.

45

Friday 22nd March from 7pm - 10pm Calling folks of all ages ...

Get your friends & family members together and come along to our pamper event in the school and enjoy make-up, hair & skincare demos, beauty treatments including nails, massage, waxing & spray tan alongside an opportunity to shop for unique gifts, perhaps for Mother’s Day from a variety of artisan vendors.

We look forward to meeting you all!

Local salons Divah / Vesari Beauty, So Beauty and Julie Devine Hair & Tan will be there offering a range of treatments at very competitive prices. Gift vouchers will also be available for purchase.

Kilbarchan Community Nursery

For example: Tan £10, Eyebrow wax/thread £6/£7, 10 minute massage £12, Shellac nails £20, File & polish £10. Full list of prices and treatments available on school website & PTA facebook page .

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).

One of our Eco focus topics for this year is Energy and we were lucky to have two visitors to tell the children all about energy. Ann’s dad Cameron explained circuits and how they work and the children joined hands to make the light come on. Ruth and Ingrid from LEAP told the children about how heat can be lost and the importance of saving energy by switching off lights. They took infra-red photos to show where heat is lost on the body.

In addition there will be students from West College Scotland giving make up and hair demos … why not try out something different, perhaps a “smoky eye” or an “up do” for a future wedding, party or prom!

Yvonne Gorrie, a local Tropic Skincare Ambassador, will also be along to offer facials and hand treatments with her range of skincare products.

Places are limited so get your tickets a.s.a.p. And support your school.

Tickets are priced £5 for adults & £3 for under 18’s and can be purchased from the school office or message Sheila McHarg on facebook.

1ST & 3RD FRIDAY Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club

McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch, 1pm -2.30pm £3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa.

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The Advertizer

Houston Primary School

Port High praised by inspectors

Young Musician of the Year

National body Education Scotland visited Port Glasgow High School for a week of observing classes and holding meetings to examine the work of the school. Now they’ve published their report with the school receiving ‘good’ and ‘very good’ ratings across the board and a range of areas Photo courtesy of George Munro (Greenock Telegraph) being commended.

Pupils from Primary 6 & 7 who have a passion for music were invited to attend Gryffe High School’s annual music competition. The pupils were blown away with the local talent. Former pupils, Sasha Kaloheris and Laura Workman were the winners in their categories. Well done girls!

Scottish Celebrations Each year all classes learn Scottish poems and songs to celebrate Scottish culture. Our gym hall was decorated with famous Scottish buildings ready for the performances. Well done to all of our finalists.

Ruby and Beth from Primary 6 were winners of the Scots poems competition organised by Morrisons in Johnstone. They each won a voucher for the store and cupcakes for their class - a very popular reward!

St Vincent’s Hospice A number of our families over the years have been supported by St. Vincent’s Hospice and we as a school really appreciate the support they give to our young people. The pupils of Primary 6 have chosen to support this very good cause by raising funds to purchase a concrete toadstool which will be decorated by them and then transported to the woodland walk at Howwood. Pupil Millie Wilson, has taken the lead in this project and presented her ideas to her peers who all agreed that they would like to help.

Pug Visit The pupils in Primary 3 have been reading, ‘Pugs of the Frozen North’ and requested for a real pug to come to school to learn more!

Primary 4 are busy rehearsing with their class teachers and Mrs Hey, for their performance of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on 18th March. We are most definitely in for a treat!

Sports News Our football team is so popular that they are now training at Gryffe High School as they need more space to practice their skills. Next match 20th March.

Gryffe High News World Challenge Team make Lunch

Bolivia

The inspection highlighted a range of strengths including the head teacher’s leadership; the renewed values which underpin the friendly and nurturing ethos in the school; improvements in pupil attainment and the number of young people supported to move on to positive destinations from school and the way staff teams work across the school and with other schools in the wider community.

Port Glasgow High School, head teacher Stuart Clark said: “I am delighted that the school community has been recognised. Our staff at Port Glasgow High School know how positive an environment this is to work and learn. Inspectors have recognised this positive climate and I’m delighted that our hard work to ensure success for all has been commented on so positively. The real stars of the inspection were our pupils, who showed what a fantastic community this is.”

Inverclyde Council education and communities convener Councillor Jim Clocherty said: “This inspection report highlights a school being led by a strong management team with the head teacher and staff being highly praised. It shows school teams working well and that our young people are learning in a positive nurturing environment and achieving.

Leadership of the school was highlighted for particular praise due to a number of important improvements in the school over recent years. HMI recognised that exam results have improved and that the most recent year showed the school’s best ever exam results.

The success of pupils leaving the school has also been commended. Almost all leavers now move on to a positive destination. Staff have designed bespoke packages to engage and instil aspiration in the most disengaged learners. For example, the work to prepare groups of young people for employment through the Greenock Morton partnership, is helping to support them as they move into the world of work.”

According to Education Scotland, a rating of ‘Very Good’ means the school has ‘major strengths’ and a rating of ‘Good’ means ‘important strengths’.

Thanks to S6 pupil Shaun, part of the World Challenge Bolivia Team, who provided a splendid, healthy lunch for staff at the February InService Day to raise funds for the trip in June. The lunch tied in well with Health and Wellbeing Activities that staff took part in just before lunch.

The In-Service day started with an interactive session on ‘Teacher Led Improvement’ with Mr Ian Fraser, followed by a presentation and discussion groups on ‘Promoting Positive Relationships’. The rest of the day was spent in Departmental Development work for CfE and National Courses.

Phoebe takes part in the Young Chef District Final Well done to Phoebe, S2, who recently participated in the District Final of the Young Chef Competition at South Lanarkshire College, East Kilbride.

Phoebe had won the qualifying round of the Gryffe Valley’s Rotary Club’s Young Chef Competition that took place in Gryffe High last November.

Phoebe planned, costed, prepared and presented three courses in two hours.

Kilmacolm Primary School In the Kilmacolm nursery class, the children have been exploring space as their theme this block. They have looked at different planets and constellations and even making their own space station!

The Kilmcolm Primary STEM club have been testing the pH range of our water samples from around the school and local community! This involved the STEM club getting their wellies on and getting into the burn in Duchal Woods togather samples. Some of us were surprised at the results! The data was then collected and a displayed on a chart detailing the findings.

Primary 3/2 have been reading the Owl Who was Afraid of the Dark and have been using the fabulous school grounds and Duchal woods to bring the learning to life. Firstly they discussed what makes a Forest a good habitat for nocturnal animals! P3/2 took their learning outside by visiting our own school grounds to explore the local wildlife habitat. They then worked with the fantastic rangers from Clydmuirshiel to learn different facts about Owls and we even installed two Owl Nest Boxes in our local woods for the local Tawny Owl and the Barn Owl. We hope they like them!

~Menu~ Carrot and Orange Soup served with Irish Soda Bread Caramelised Baked Chicken served with Rice and Spiralised Vegetables Molten Chocolate Puddings Fantastic work Phoebe!

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On the 6th of February Primary 1 celebrated Global School Play Day where the children led the learning for the entire day. This saw pupils creating their very own Michaelangelo inspired paintings, using musical instruments to form a rock band and entertaining visitors in the Chinese New Year restauraunt. It was a fabulous day full of fun!

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

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March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk

St Columba’s School Time For Tea! On Saturday 9th February we were delighted to open our doors to the whole community as we hosted our Early Years Tiger Tea. The event was a real success, with lots of new and familiar faces stopping by to participate in storytelling, tiger crafts, face painting and of course to enjoy some of the tasty tiger treats on offer.

Junior 2 children also entertained their families at a Grandparents’ Tea Party with songs, poems, dancing and, of course, plenty of tea and delicious cakes!

Public Speaking and Debating Success Recently a number of our pupils have represented the School at various debating and public speaking competitions. SI pupils Sophie Hannigan and Stella McCardie have now progressed to the fourth round of the Scottish Schools Debating Juniors Competition (SSD Juniors), along with a team from Douglas Academy. Beating off stiff competition from The High School of Glasgow and Kelvinside Academy.

Quite the result given this is Sophie and Stella’s first year of competitive debating. On Sunday 3rd February, Bronte Marritt (SIII), Laurie McDougall and Emma Ventham (Transitus) competed in the Intermediate District Final of the Rotary Club Youth Speaks competition at Caledonian University. The team saw off competition from St Aloysius, Hamilton College, and Douglas

Academy, among a number of others, and were awarded Runners Up. Charlotte Westwood and Eilidh Lindsay (SIV) won the Scottish Regional Qualifier of the International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD) and now progress to Finals Day in Cambridge.

DofE Gold and Silver Training Weekend Thankfully the sun was shining for most of the weekend, even if it was still a little cold, for our Gold and Silver groups visiting Castle Semple and Lochgoilhead for a training weekend as part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

We are sure you will agree that the photos capture Scotland at its best.

FP Weekend Save the Date: 29th - 30th March 2019 A weekend not to be missed - save the date! Marking 40 years since boys joined St Columba’s School, we are celebrating this momentous occasion with hockey matches taking place on Friday 29th March at our astroturf at 6.30pm with refreshments afterwards in the Senior School Hall and rugby matches taking place on Saturday 30th March starting from 9.30am at Greenock Wanderers’ Rugby Club, with awards being held afterwards at the Tontine Hotel, Greenock. Please keep your eyes peeled on our website and Facebook page for further details.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 44-47 SCHOOLS_294 MARCH 19.indd 47

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The Advertizer TUITION

BUSINESS

TRADES AND SERVICES

SITUATIONS VACANT

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

PROPERTY TO LET

CHILDCARE

MISCELLANEOUS

Houston registered childminders.

For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Elizabeth Waddell T: 01505 614925 Kilmacolm/Quarriers area registered childminders.

P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 01505 873839.

ADVERTISING RATES TRADES/SERVICES/PROPERTY/CARS BOXED AD £8.00* per column cm PHOTO £8.00* (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 April 2019 issue - Friday 48-51 CLASSIFIED_294 MARCH 19.indd 48

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

21/02/2019 13:38:27

March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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e: info@advertizer.co.uk Public Defibrillator Sites in the Gryffe Area Bridge of Weir & Quarriers

ITEMS FOR SALE BABY EQUIPMENT Maxi Cosi car seat. 6months - 3 years. Good condition. £25.

Tel: 07930 611782.

Potty Chair Mothercare, red & pink, VGC, £5. Tel: 07720 299588.

Mothercare Pak and Play Travel Cot. Very good condition.

Easy to assemble and take down. £10. Tel: 01505 335706.

Philips Avent Electric Steam Steriliser. Good condition.

From smoke and pet free home. £10. Tel: 01505 Silver cross linear freeway travel system. Pram (converts to pushchair), car seat, ISOFIX base, foot muff and rain covers. Excellent condition.

From smoke and pet free home. RRP £600, selling for £125. Tel: 01505 872800.

Mothercare Darlington fixed side cot. Very good condition.

From smoke and pet free home. £45. Tel: 01505 872800.

Wee Ride Front Mounted Children’s Bike Seat. Good Condition. £20. Tel: 01505 872800.

Baby changing table in light oak. Approx 78.5cm wide x 57cm deep x 76cm high.

Two shelves for storage (Four wicker baskets included).

Great condition, smoke free home. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

CLOTHES & SHOES As NEW Junior girls Size 3 Caterpillar Boots. Stylish Three-quarter length robustly made khaki textile with leather buckle. £25. Tel: 07984 483524.

Abercrombie & Fitch cropped parka in lovely condition hardly used. Size 6. £25.

Tel: 07984 483524.

Genuine American artisan Handtooled ladies Cowboy boots. Tan hide. Excellent as New condition. Size 5. £49.

Tel: 07984 483524.

Fry American tan hide horse riding boots with rear zip.

Size 6. Excellent condition. £45ono. Tel: 07984 483524.

Ted Baker beautiful as New laptop cover. Size 11”+ 14.5” Highland scene with stag in durable fabric & leather. £25.

Tel: 07984 483524.

Suzanne Neville Beaujolais wedding dress in ivory silk.

Size 10. Professionally dry cleaned, good condition. £250. Tel: 01505 672175.

Men’s XL lightweight waterproof golf jacket with half zip in black and charcoal. Excellent condition as unworn. Smoke free home. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Genuine Ladies classic style Original Gloverall duffle coat.

All Wool camel coloured quality garment with spare horn toggles. Suit size 14 to 16. As NEW never worn still labelled. £175. Tel: 07984 483524.

Karrimor Junior Snow Boots.

NEW unused still labelled/ boxed. Size 5. Navy blue and black. £25. Tel: 07984 483524.

Black Jazz shoes, good condition, junior size 12/13. £8 Tel: 07720 299588.

Black Tap shoes, good condition, junior size 12/13. £10. Tel: 07720 299588.

Ladies Size 5 Dublin Waterproof Boot Colour Chocolate (worn once). £50. Tel: 01505 873735.

Ladies Size 5 Asics Walking Trainer Duomax GT 1000.

Very good condition. £50.

Tel: 01505 873735.

New Slimma Suit. Pure wool, oatmeal colour, size 14. £25 ono. Tel: 01505 690642.

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN Gas Baxi Westmoreland Cast Iron Stove with top flue outlet Never been used has coal effect glass door black. £120.

Tel: 07791 688240 (Bridge of Weir).

Brand new Laura Ashley window pole in Dove grey - up to 2.2metres in length. Bought by mistake! Cost £80 sell for £25. Tel: 01475 540066.

Worktops, real wood, 6 metres, mid brown. Cost £180 sell £59. Tel: 07986 812483.

Dimplex w/m panel heater 800watts Programmer 2 settings. VGC. £35. Tel: 01475 540313.

Retro style oak and veneer coffee table from the House

by John Lewis range. Handy shelves and drawers for storage. Approx H38cm x W110cm x D60cm. Excellent condition, smoke free home. £170. Tel: 01505 672175.

Large Industrial contemporary light fitting 18” diameter. Very stylish shabby chic. Ready for use. £40. Tel: 07984 483524.

6 large “Burns” Crystal Goblets, still boxed, unwanted present.

Engraved with first verse of My Love is Like a Red Red Rose. Would make a lovely gift. £80 ono. Tel: 01505 842558.

Miller’s Choice Bread Maker in excellent condition. Little used. £20. Tel: 01505 335706.

Folding single bed with mattress never used on slatted base. £30. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

Two seater sofa-bed in excellent condition. New £260, sell for £100. Beige cover. Both sofa and bed very comfortable.

Has been used as guest bed only. Tel: 07720 299588.

Hostess trolley with four heated dishes in perfect condition. £30. Tel: 01475 540066 .

Quality dining room table and six chairs with centre leaf up to 7 ft. Cost £1,600 but little used with matching corner drinks cabinet. £400. Tel: 01475 540066 .

G Plan recliner armchair.

Excellent condition. Manual.

Grey/white. £75. Tel: 07986 812483.

ELECTRICAL & GAS Tesco 700W White Microwave.

Good condition. £20. Tel: 01505 873252.

SPORTS Trampoline, exercise or leisure, could deliver, never used. 9 inches high + 3 feet broad. £18. Tel: 07986 812483.

Viking 23” gents bike - touring, very good condition. £80. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

Girls pink bike. Good condition.

Appr age 5-7. £20. Tel: 07720 299588.

Ultrasport Step Machine. £15.

Tel: 01505 335706.

PRO POWER 3 Station Home Gym for sale £50, purchaser to uplift. Tel: Langbank 01475 540700.

Dinesse large Matt black ski/ snowboard helmet. Good condition. £20. Tel: 01505 672175.

Used golf balls, but good clean condition, Titleist 1, 2, 3 & 4.

Many Pro V 1’s. 2 x boxes of 12 balls. £10 per box. Also Srixon 1, 2, 3 & 4, 1 x box of 12 ball, £5. Tel: 01505 872800.

Rossignol Axiom 10/5 skis and bindings. 160cms. Never used. £90. Tel: 07722 965705.

Lange Zero X9 Jr Ski Boots.

Size 4. Worn once. £40. Tel: 07722 965705.

2 x ski tubes. £20. Tel: 07722 965705.

TECHNICAL & GAMES Samsung Note 4 phone sim free unlocked works perfect used condition. £80. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

PC computer working order Windows 7. £25 needs mouse. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

Powerex MH-C9000 AA battery charger. It has 5 modes of operation. It Charges, Refresh Analyze, Break in, discharge and Cycle. Never been used. £60 . Tel: 07983 656421.

Samsung Tablet gt-p5110 android 4.2.2. 10” new battery. £80. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

Blackberry Android Priv unlocked, excellent condition. £120. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

TOYS Smoby Rosy Doll, 63 cm long, in good condition with clothes.

Have two. £10 each. Tel: 07720 299588.

OTHER ITEMS Brand new steel car wheel 6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre 185/60 R15. Stored as spare wheel only. £80. Tel: 07736 067169.

Filing cabinets 4 drawers steel. £35. Tel: 07791 688240 (Johnstone).

Caravan Porch Awning. Brand new ‘DOREMA’ 275 (easy grip alu frame). Cost £570 accept £350. Tel: 01505 702084 .

2 photographic light tents 1 small and 1 large with coloured inserts, also table top tripod.

All brand new. £20. Tel: 07983 656421.

Heavy Duty sewing machine

by New Home. Beautifully maintained machine. Well equipped with all accessories & instruction manual. £185.

Tel: 07984 483524.

Car seats Britax & Graco front facing, age 3-10 years, 15-36 kg. In good condition. £20 each. Tel: 07720 299588.

Large Peli camera bag. Lots of well protected storage and pockets. In VGC can be hand carried or used as a back pack. Never used outside my home. £60. Tel: 07983 656421.

Alloy wheel and new tyre. Both new, kept as spare wheel.

245/45R18 100W XL. £85 for each one. Tel: 07986 812483.

Visible Dust Digital camera cleaning system. Consists of 1 powered brush,1 illuminated magnified sensor Loup and liquid, buds and sensor wipes.

All brand new and never been used. £75. Tel: 07983 656421.

Arc1 PPL (Private Pilot Licence) student computer with case. £15. Tel: 07984 483524.

Brother AX-100 electronic typewriter plus spare ribbon.

Good condition. £35 ono. Tel: 01475 540110 after 6pm.

25 classical CD’s with rack. £25 the lot. Tel: 01505 872334.

WANTED ITEMS Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710 777571.

Local lily grower requires the use of a greenhouse/polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

Westclox Big Ben alarm clock.

Call 07756 981917.

Cash paid for Vinyl Records and Music CDs (a few or a lot). Tel: 01505 324683 or 07765 115347.

 Co-Op Bridge of Weir  Old Ranfurly Golf Club  Ranfurly Castle Golf Club  William Quarriers House @ entrance to Faith Avenue  Country View, Quarriers  The Gate House, Bridge of Weir Leather Works Houston & Brookfield  Outside Church Hall, Main Street, Houston  Co-Op Houston  Strathgryffe Squash & Fitness Club (Reception)  Brookfield Village Hall Main Entrance Kilmacolm  Kilmacolm Golf Club  St Columba’s Senior School  Gym, Birkmyre Park, Kilmacolm  Kilmacolm Library (at rear of New Surgery) Kilbarchan, Johnstone & Linwood  Scout Hall, Kilbarchan  Kilbarchan Bowling Club  Onyx Leisure Centre, Linwood  Spar, Clippens Road, Linwood  Keystore, Spateston  Keystore, Corseford Bishopton  The Cornerstone, Greenock Road  Bishopton Community Centre

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 48-51 CLASSIFIED_294 MARCH 19.indd 49

21/02/2019 13:38:29

50

The Advertizer

BY CATEGORY Accountants & Financial

Electricians

Home Improvements

Plumbers

Affluent Financial Planning . . 12 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 F Christie Accounting . . . . . . 12 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 GHG Smyth & Co Limited . . . . . 14 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk

Delta Electrical Services . . 8 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 M2 Electrical and Data Service . . 18 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Russell Milne Electrician . . 16

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 36 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 37 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 7 Scotland’s Bath Company . . . . 45

Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 30 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 8 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 32 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 3 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 23

Architectural Services CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Automotive Services ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Bathrooms

Fencing Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 14

Firewood & Logs LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 32 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 5 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21

Funeral Services

Bedrooms

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 36 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 38 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 37 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 36 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 38 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 R C Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 R Williams Tree Services . . . 39 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 West of Scotland Landscape . . 36

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 31

Blacksmith & Metalwork McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 14

Building Services A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 12 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 32 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45

Business Services Opere Facto Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Care Services & Homes Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 5 Home Instead Senior Care . . . 27

Catering Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 17

Cleaning & PowerWash CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 23 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 19 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 21

Computer, Web & Graphic Design

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 33 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 8

Garden Service & Design

Gas & Heating Services Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 30 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 8 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 32 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 3 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1

Glazier 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 5 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Hairdressers & Barbers Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 25 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 24

Health, Beauty & Fitness Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 25 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 19 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 3 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,Bk LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 41

Home Hardware Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Opere Facto Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 31 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 32 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 7

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 15 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Home Security

Removals

Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 8

@ease Removals & Transport . . 8 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Home Interiors

Joiners A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 30 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 31 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Kitchens Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 31 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7

Leisure & Recreation Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 41

Locksmiths Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Painters & Decorators A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 17 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 20 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 SL Painter & Decorator . . . . . 8

Pest Control RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4

Pet Services & Training PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 35

Plasterers Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 20 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17

DELIVERY

STAFF

Driveways A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Driving Instructors

WANTED

AL Stewart - Driving School . . 45

Education St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 47

Property, Sales & Let

Contact us

Retail Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Roofing Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 20 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 12 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45

Solicitors Affinity Family Law Experts . . 3 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 15 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1

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

Stoves Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 32

Taxis & Minicoach hire ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 43

Tiling Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 18 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 37 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 R Williams Tree Services . . . 39 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37

TV & Satellite Clearline Aerial & Satellite . . 16 D Darroch Aerial & Satellite . . 6 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 12 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3

Upholstery Services Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 19 JM Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Window Cleaners DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 23 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 19 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 27

Window, Consv & Repair 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Window Scene Scotland . . . . . . Bk

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.

@ease Removals & Transport . . 8 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 36 A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 17 A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 38 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk Affinity Family Law Experts . . 3 Affluent Financial Planning . . 12 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 AL Stewart - Driving School . . 45 Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 37 Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 25 Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 5 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Bell Plumbing & Heating . . . . 17 Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 19 Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 21 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 8 Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 20 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 31 C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 30 CHG Architecture Ltd . . . . . . . 7 CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Clearline Aerial & Satellite . . 16 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 5 ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 20 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 5 Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 36 D Darroch Aerial & Satellite . . 6 Dallas McMillan Solicitors . . 15 David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 Delta Electrical Services . . 8 Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 12 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 30 DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 23 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 3 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 F Christie Accounting . . . . . . 12 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 19 Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 3 G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 38 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 GHG Smyth & Co Limited . . . . . 14 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 18 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 6 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Home Instead Senior Care . . . 27

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

Deadline date for our April 2019 issue - Friday 48-51 CLASSIFIED_294 MARCH 19.indd 50

A TO Z

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,

I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 8 Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 21 Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 32 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17 James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 6 JDPS All Trades . . . . . . . . . . . 1 JM Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 John Roach Funeral Directors . . 8 Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 43 Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 17 KC Building & Roofing . . . . . . 4 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 37 Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13,Bk Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17 Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 38 M2 Electrical and Data Service . . 18 Mackie Plumbing & Heating . . 3 MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 Matthews Cleaning Services . . 27 MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 12 McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 31 McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 14 MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 24 NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 41 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 32 Opere Facto Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 7 PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 Platinum Cleaning Services . . 21 R C Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 R Williams Tree Services . . . 39 Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4 Russell Milne Electrician . . 16 Scotland’s Bath Company . . . . 45 Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 SL Painter & Decorator . . . . . 8 Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 35 SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 SP Groundcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 47 Stewart Independent Financial . . Bk Strathgryffe Tennis & Squash . . 41 SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 18 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 7 TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . 23 Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 45 Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 West of Scotland Landscape . . 36 Window Scene Scotland . . . . . . Bk

Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Cross Café, Gibb Stuart, Library, Community Centre Lochwinnoch: Keystore, Library, Dolce Vita, Castle Semple Centre

15th March - you don’t want to miss it!!

21/02/2019 13:38:41

March 2019

t: 01505 613340

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Kilbarchan Old Parish Church Building The old Kilbarchan Parish Church building, with its long history and its unique appearance, is of great significance in the heritage of the village. There has been a church building on the site since, and probably before, the late middleages when in 1401 Thomas Crawford of Auchinames built a small chapel, dedicated to St. Catherine, in the Kirk yard. In the 12th century Kilbarchan Parish Church had come under the jurisdiction of Diocese of Glasgow and later of Paisley Abbey. After the Reformation things changed and in 1590 the church became part of the newly formed Presbytery of Paisley. In the 17th century the Cunninghames of Craigends, as Patrons of the church, had a private aisle and burial place within the building.

By 1724 the church building was in a sad state of repair. The heritors appointed James Baird, a mason from Govan, to rebuild the church. Parishioners assisted in the work. The main body of the church was demolished, leaving only the Cunninghame Aisle, with its crow-step gable upstanding to be incorporated in the new building. A small bell tower was erected on the west gable and a to-fall was built on the south wall as a burial place for the Houstons of Johnstone Castle. Eight years later George Houston sold his estate to James Milliken and the to-fall became the burial place of the Milliken family and was thereafter known as the Milliken Aisle. The interior of the church had lofts or balconies at the east and west gables.

In 1792 a separate one storey session house was built in the churchyard.

Apart from the building of an additional storey on the Milliken Aisle, little change was made to the main church building before 1858 when architect, Alexander Kirkland, was appointed to make alterations to the building. The main part of the church was extended on the north by twelve feet and the tower on the north-east corner of the building was added. This increased the seating capacity of around 400 in Baird’s original building to 550.

Robert MacKenzie, the minister from (1895-1934) described the building as presenting ‘an artistic though somewhat quaint and unusual appearance’. It is now a B-listed building.

Since 1858 only minor functional extensions have been added to the exterior of the building which has served as the Church Hall since the new church was built in 1901.

In 2018 both church buildings were sold by the Church of Scotland. The 1901 church will be converted into flats, but the future of the 1724 old Kilbarchan Parish Church building has not yet been decided. Hopefully, it too will be preserved in some form and continue as an iconic focal point in the village. © 2019 Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Forum MEETINGS: Renfrewshire Local History Forum holds its next archaeology lecture meeting in Room 116 in the Coats Building, University of the West of Scotland, (entrance in Storie Street, Paisley) at 7.30pm on Thursday, 14th March. Our speaker is Ian Marshall of the Association of Certificated Field Archaeologists. His topic is Two Deserted Settlements at Cul an Droma and Cor na Beithe based on ACFA’s Field Survey on Arran, 1995-2017. These settlement sites are in the Parish of Kilmory.

Johnstone History Society

Christianity in Kilmacolm — Pre Reformation St. Columba is reported to have landed on the island of Iona in 563 AD and began his Christianising mission and it was during this time that Christianity came to Kilmacolm. History tells us that St. Columba met St. Mungo, traditionally the first bishop of Glasgow whose diocese encompassed the Kilmacolm area, beside the Molendinar Burn where Glasgow Cathedral now stands. Legend however suggests that they met beside the Gilburn where St. Mungo decided to dedicate a church or cell to St. Columba, Cil-maColumbia from which comes the name Kilmalcolm and later changed to Kilmacolm. Those who consider that the meeting was in Glasgow thought that the cell by the Gilburn was founded by one of the monks from Iona who dedicated it to his patron saint.

The location of the current Old Kirk Building traditionally marks the site of this meeting. It represents a very ancient place of worship. Originally little more than a ‘wattle and daub’ house for prayer before the erection of the 13th century building that pre-dates the current sanctuary — a portion of which is preserved in the Murray Chapel to this day. This period saw the development of the parish system in Scotland at the instigation of Queen Margaret.

The medieval church served a large civil parish stretching from the banks of the Clyde at Langbank down to Inverkip and was bordered on the inland side by the parishes of Houston and Kilbarchan. It was at this time that it came under the jurisdiction of Paisley Abbey and was serviced by monks from there.

The earliest recorded Ministry of the Old Kirk was in 1250, where Sir Hugh de Parclyner witnessed a title deed at the Abbey and signs himself as the ‘Vicar of Kilmacolm’. He was not the first minister, but the first of which we have a historical record. It is an “old” Kirk indeed! And so these faithful men would have served this small rural parish as part of the one Catholic faith until the disruption of the Reformation from 1560.

Window from Murray Chapel

New History Website for Lochwinnoch Developed by Pat and Brian Smith it is fantastic and worth a look! A lot of hard work has gone into developing it.

Our next meeting will be on the 12th of March in the Masonic Hall, Collier Street at 7.30pm. This meeting is The AGM followed by a film show of Old Johnstone.

The website has two themes.

1.

to show the history of Lochwinnoch from the early 1800’s in photographs, video and articles

It is hoped we have a good attendance at this meeting. Our February meeting was very well attended with a numbers of very welcome new faces.

The speaker Alistair Dinsmor gave us a very informative talk about the history of Glasgow City Police this was enjoyed by all .

2.

a collection of photographs covering many genre such as landscape, portraiture, action and wildlife

The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. We still have a few calendars left and they are now priced at £5 soil you have not already got one now is your chance to get a bargain. There are also many other books and maps on sale all of which can be purchased online at johnstonehistory.org and paid via PayPal. The Museum is staffed by volunteers so we are always glad to welcome anyone interested in helping out .

An important aim of the site is to put names to faces and thereby preserve a more personal record of the people of the village. This project may already be late because many of those who can put names to faces are no longer with us. See it on link below. https://www.pbthecairn.com

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