pet news

Raving about Rabbits

Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK. There are three main points to consider to ensure your rabbit leads a healthy, happy life:

1. Rabbits are sociable Wild rabbits naturally live in large social groups. Pet rabbits should therefore be kept in pairs or groups. This provides companionship and allows rabbits to carry out normal behaviours such as mutual grooming. Rabbits that are kept alone su er from loneliness, increased stress levels and increased health problems. The ideal pairing to avoid potential aggression between rabbits is housing a neutered male with a neutered female.

2. Rabbits are active Wild rabbits cover an area equivalent to six football pitches every day. This means your pet rabbit needs plenty of space to exercise, a hutch or cage is not enough. Ideally rabbits should have free access to a run or enclosed area in the garden (or house if an indoor rabbit). As a general rule a hutch or cage should be large enough for a rabbit to take three hops and tall enough for a rabbit to stand upright in. A run should be a minimum of eight feet long (approximately four rabbit hops!). It is also useful to provide tunnels and toys within the run for your rabbit to keep them active and entertained.

3. Rabbits eat grass Rabbits are designed to eat grass for several hours every day. Rabbits have continuously growing teeth and a complex gastrointestinal system designed for this high fi bre diet. The wrong diet can lead to severe dental and gastrointestinal problems in pet rabbits. The ideal diet for your pet rabbit is composed of approximately 80% good quality hay, 15% fresh leafy vegetables and 5% good quality commercial rabbit food, in a uniform pellet mix. Starting out with these three basic rabbit facts can make a big di erence to the health and welfare of pet rabbits.

Avian Pox on the Rise – Clean Your Bird Feeders

What is it? Avian Pox is a viral infection a ecting varieties of British Garden Birds. According to the British Trust for Ornithology, previously birds such as Wood Pigeon and Dunnock have been a ected; however, recently there have been increasing numbers of cases involving smaller birds such as Great Tits. This illness does not seem to e ect humans or other mammals

What Does It Look Like? And, how does it spread? Birds with the disease present with tumour-like growths on the head (around eyes of beak) wings or legs. Experts believe it is spread by biting insects, birdto-bird contact (direct and indirect) through contaminated bird feeders and water baths. Growths are usually grey, red, pink or yellow.

What can you do? Clean and disinfect feeders regularly. A weak solution of domestic bleach or disinfecting solutions (diluted) can be used. Clean out bird baths on a daily basis, and refi ll with fresh water.

Microchip Details

Its always worthwhile to take a minute to check your pet’s details so your furry friend can always be returned safely should they wander away.. 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.

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 MISSING PET? We can post on Facebook for you! Send details to: info@advertizer.co.uk 01505 613340

outdoors

Inverclyde Council Garden Waste Permits

Householders wishing to recycle garden waste in an Inverclyde Council brown bin need to buy a seasonal garden waste permit. Inverclyde Council’s annual charge for collecting garden waste from the kerbside in 2020 is £30 per bin. A permit is required for each brown bin presented containing garden waste and can only be purchased online. On receipt of payment, the householder will receive a permit which should be attached to the back of the bin to indicate to collection crews to uplift the bin. If bins are presented containing garden waste without a valid permit they will not be emptied. The £30 charge applies regardless of at what point in the year the permit is issued, all permits issued will expire on your last recycling collection day in November 2020. Please visit the website below to register and pay for your permit. https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/environment/recycling-and-wasteservices/garden-waste-permits

Stormy Weather followed by a “Brighter” Outlook

After day one of storm Ciara last month, Brighter Bridge of Weir’s Damage Assessment Team* risked a quick look around the village. They were pleasantly surprised to report that there was little evidence of anything amiss. In fact, many of the plants looked amazingly healthy for the time of year. At the time of writing, storm Dennis is forecast for the next weekend and, although it’s not thought to be as severe as Ciara, there will still be crossed fi ngers among the team. The Group met up at the beginning of the month to discuss this summer’s planting for throughout the village, and some of them later went along to our supplier with our order for this year’s plants. It’s not always an easy task to decide what to choose. We like to make things a bit di erent every year, and ask ourselves what did well in previous years and what wasn’t so successful. The trouble is that it’s often di cult to tell whether certain plants didn’t like the soil conditions, or if it was the weather to blame. Still, we’re always optimistic for a good display. *PS: No, we don’t actually have a Damage Assessment Team, but it does sound quite impressive don’t you think?

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society

Will March come in like a lion and go out like a lamb, or will it be more of the wild weather experienced in February? The only thing gardeners can predict is that in March we should be out there preparing our gardens for the season ahead. On Thursday 12th March we will meet at 8pm at The Bridge to pick up tips on ‘Getting To Know Your Soil’. Some we will know but doubtless there will be new ideas as well. If you want to make the most of what you’ve got – come along and if you’re new to

Kerrera by Bridge of Weir Hillwalkers

Green Corner Top Five Spring Gardening Tips

Spring is one of the busiest times in the gardener’s calendar. If you get it right now, you’ll be ready for a spectacular summer garden. Here are our top fi ve tips.

1. Refresh Your Perennials This is the season to revitalise your soil and plants with some mulch. There is also still time to work through the border and divide up your perennials. Lift them, divide the crown and re-place the plant in a smaller group or elsewhere, discarding the central part of the crown.

2. Grass, Grass, Grass! Spring is when you should give your lawn its fi rst cut of the season. First, however, it’s worth servicing your lawn mower to ensure its sharp and working well. If the blades are sharp when you fi rst start cutting, the grass will keep in better condition. Another good tip is to keep your mower set at a high level for the fi rst few cuts which should encourage the grass to become stronger. Also, don’t overcut. This only helps weed seeds to penetrate. Longer grass catches these seeds which then will be destroyed by the next mowing.

3. Plant One On Me! If you’re quick, you can still plant bare rooted plants like soft fruit, top fruit, roses, trees or shrubs – although aim to get this done by St Patrick’s Day (17th March).

4. Pay Attention to Spring Bulbs Now is a good time to lift and divide bulbs which have fi nished fl owering. Take o faded fl owers and seed-heads and tease out the bulbs and leaves then replant them individually about 60 cm apart.

5. Don’t Forget Your Veggies If you are choosing to raise crops from seed you should now start them in a warm area or heated propagator if the ground is still to cold. But as soon as the shoot arrives, lift them to a cooler, well-lit area or they will become weak. Keep turning your seedlings to avoid them developing on one side only.

gardening or thinking it’s time to refresh your ideas – defi nitely come along. By then we will also be more knowledgeable about poisonous plants as Louise Bustard, a regular guest, will talk on this subject in February. In April we will have a creative, Easter-themed meeting and in May we will have a Gardeners’ Question Time evening, just in time for our Plant Sale later in the month. More on these topics next month.

Semple Stories, Lochwinnoch’s Glories

Semple Stories, Lochwinnoch Glories is Limbering up for a Walk I would like to say thanks to all the individuals and organisations whom I have had the pleasure of talking to in the past few months. There are so many stories to tell that the trouble is going to be whittling it down to two or three! There have been two meetings of volunteers so far who are conducting historical research to link in with two Guided Walks of Lochwinnoch. These walks will be taking places as part of the CMRP ‘Walking Festival’, now in its 3rd year, on Saturday 23rd May and Sunday 24th May. I am really keen that this project be a community led one and to that end, I am looking to recruit further volunteers for di erent aspects of the project. Have you ever fancied looking through the ‘Cairn of Lochwinnoch’ to read Andrew Crawfurd’s views on village life, or are you a keen ‘birder’ who could check an old bird list against current sightings around Airds Meadow, Barr and Castle Semple Lochs? Do you have old family photographs, household object, audio or video recordings which we could copy or photograph? Is there someone you know who has interesting/funny stories that you think need to be captured? I have a hand-held recording device which you can borrow! Nobody knows your Village as well as you do, so if you would like to share your knowledge of Lochwinnoch’s Glories then, please get in touch – 01505 842 882, email – semplestories@gmail.com. You can also follow us on Facebook – Lochwinnoch Glories and Instagram – lochwinnochglories Semple Stories, Lochwinnoch’s Glories is a project equally funded by the Greater Renfrew and Inverclyde LEADER and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

March is here and that means springtime! At this time of year the Da odils are coming into fl ower, patching the estate with pockets of vivid yellow.

Sunday 8th 1pm - 3pm, Ranger Hike Join us for a hike and learn about Finlaystone’s past, natural history and some wonderful Clydeside views.

Sunday 15th 1pm - 3pm, Spring Scavenger Hunt Spring is here! Find some of nature’s seasonal treasures inside our woodlands.

Sunday 22nd 1pm - 3pm, Den Build Do you know your lean-on from your tripod and Y-pole? Learn all about den-building and make your own, with some fi re-lighting tutorials thrown in!

Sunday 29th 1pm - 3pm, Mother’s Day Walk A gentle stroll through the forest with moderate slopes, followed by a cream tea in our garden’s tearoom. Sturdy footwear and warm layers required.

All Month

Snowdrop Bulbs ‘In the Green’ Available as singles or doubles, please phone us up on 01475 540505 to make your booking and payment and we’ll reserve the bulbs for you, ready to be planted for 2021! The tearoom will be open at weekends and bank holidays from 10am- approx 4pm. Any woodland/garden volunteers are always welcome and are a valuable help year-round! Soft and hard fi rewood log bags available too, with discounts for bags of 4 and superb value for money. As always, feel free to follow us on our social media: Facebook – Finlaystone Country Estate Twitter - @fi nlaystonepark Instagram - @fi nlaystonecountryestate

Got NEWS? Got any local news? Please send your news in to: info@advertizer.co.uk Pictures are welcome but we do ask that they be at least 1MB in size, .jpg fi les, and no smaller than 5cm in width or height.

RSPB Local Group

An illustrated talk by James Silvey “The RSPB’s work on toads, bumblebees and beetles” Friday 6th March @ 7.30pm in the McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew PA4 8LX All welcome.

Has spring sprung or do we still need to wait? Is that a willow warbler or a chi cha that’s arrived? Is it too early to be seeing caterpillars out and about?

With climate change these days it’s even harder for us to decide when spring has fi nally arrived. Often that sunny week in early March is closely followed by hard frosts and even snow, which can catch many of us out as well as the wildlife. Spring has two ‘o cial’ dates – meteorological spring, which is the fi rst day of March, or astrological spring, which falls on the equinox, March 20th. For many though, spring is not defi ned by a date but an event; the arrival of the fi rst swallow, the sighting of your fi rst butterfl y or when certain fl owers start to appear. The start of spring can simply be a feeling, when we feel the days have fi nally gotten longer, when we can safely leave o a layer or too and turn our minds to warmer times or, when we can fi nally switch o the central heating and save a bob or too! If you have never visited our reserve, or it’s been a while, then spring is a great time to come and pay us a visit. As the sun’s rays warm the soil, many wildfl owers start to appear and birds begin their frantic courting and competing for territories by singing their hearts out or displaying for the attention of females. Our open day on Sunday March 22nd is the perfect chance to come and experience what is on o er. You can walk our trails for free and experience the wildlife for yourself. Kids can take part in our free treasure hunt, play in the natural play area and explore the fairy trail. They, and adults alike, can have a go at pond dipping or try their luck at our tombola. Other events we have in March include our ‘Little Explorer’s Scavenger Hunt’ throughout the month, an ‘Astronomy Evening’ on Friday 20th, our ‘Wildlife Photography for Beginners Workshop’ on Sunday 29th and our monthly ‘Family Volunteering’ afternoon on Saturday 21st. For more information about the reserve or any of our events, please call 01505 842 663, email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk, or simply pop in for a visit where we can help you discover this gem on your very own doorstep. OranceTip courtesy Ben Andrews rspb-images.com, RSPBLochwinnoch

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 list of local meetings:

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

Paisley Colour Photographic Club : Thursday evenings The McMaster Centre, Renfrew, from 7.30pm. www.paisleycolour.com

Diaporama Meeting : 2nd Monday in the month 7.30pm in the Carrick Centre, Houston. For further information contact Hugh Kerr at 01505 612687 or hughkerr14@gmail.com

Langbank Camera Club : 2nd & 4th Mondays of the month For more information please contact Derrick McPherson at langbankcc1@gmail.com.

Practical Conservation Days: At Muirshiel Country Park we have started planting 4000 native trees to replace the felled sitka spruce. As part of International Forest day we are holding a public tree planting event on Saturday 21st March 10.30am – 3pm. For more details look on the parks facebook page or contact the Ranger on 01505 843271. Stargazing Evenings: The last Stargazing event at Castle Semple this winter session is on Monday 9th March. Book your place online today, its only £5 (children 10-16 yrs are £2.50) and look forward to an evening of stars, planets and other astronomical features. Pedal the Park 2020: Is taking place on Sunday 3rd May, online entry is open for this popular 100km sportive, sign up, get cycling or save the date and donate to the home baking e orts for the food stop at the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre. Entry is £20 with a £7.50 CLIC Sargent donation included via the British Cycling website. Active Adventurous: 2020 course dates are 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 qualifi cations. For the kids there are our school holiday (hugely popular!) Junior Multi Activity Weeks or days in Spring, Summer and Autumn. There are also child specifi c paddlesport and sailing 2 day courses. If current dates don’t suit get your friends together and contact us asap to book your own activity session or course. Clyde Muirshiel Conservation Volunteers: Greenock Cut Volunteers are every Saturday 10.30 - 2.30pm; Duke of Edinburgh Volunteers are on Sunday morning 10am - 12noon. Castle Semple Volunteers run on Thursday afternoons 12.30pm – 3.30pm and can be either at Castle Semple or Muirshiel, we occasionally run full day sessions. Look online for full programmes. Dates for the Diary: On Sunday 5th April the Modifi ed Autos on the Water in aid of St Vincent’s will be taking place for the fi rst time at Castle Semple, look on their facebook page for further details. The 3rd Clyde Muirshiel Walking Festival will take place on Saturday 23rd until Monday 25th May and Classic Car Show on Sunday 18th October. Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: DIY weekend runs are taken place and Tuesday night club rides will be starting in late March look on the club facebook for further details. Contact the club by emailing the secretary ridesixtythree@gmail.com for a membership form. CMRP Online: Keep up to speed with events and activities taking place facebook.com/ClydeMuirshielRegionalPark, @Clydemuirshiel Twitter and Instagram pages.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society invite you to their March lecture on Wednesday 18th March at 7.30pm in the New Community Centre, Kilmacolm. Our guest speaker is the highly popular Louise Bustard, senior curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Her presentation will feature ‘The Gardens of the Italian Lakes’. Everyone is most welcome, please join us for refreshments which follow the lecture. Please bring along your exhibits for the Spring Bulb Competition, judged by Louise Bustard, with the award of the prestigious Jimmy Whittet trophy. Annual membership of the Society is £5 - the best value in town! Date for your diary - the KHS Co ee Morning and Plant Sale on Saturday 16th May in the Community Centre, Kilmacolm 10am - 12noon. Plants supplied by Parklea Nurseries, Tombola, entertainment with the Archie Gardner Ceilidh Trio - back by popular request! We are keen to welcome new members, and new exhibitors to the Kilmacolm Flower Show. Don’t let us fade away, keep the Society alive by supporting us with your membership and attendance. Use us or Lose us! More information can be found on our website: www. kilmacolmhorticultural.com, or contact Jill Russell, secretary to KHS on 01505 872393. Kilmacolm Flower Show. Don’t let us fade away, keep the Society alive by supporting us with your membership and attendance. Use contact Jill Russell, secretary to

What’s on

february

RUNS UNTIL SATURDAY 29TH

Paisley Book Festival Various For its inaugural year, Paisley Book Festival’s theme of Radical Voices and Rebel Stories celebrates the area’s rebellious history. A bold, exciting and vibrant festival is planned. Highlights include John Byrne, Caro Ramsay, Kirsty Wark, The Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers featuring Christopher Brookmyre and Val McDermid paisleybookfestival.com for more info.

WEDNESDAY 26TH

Circular Walk Beside Inverkip Railway Station, Inverkip, Greenock PA16 0BB 11am A 13km circular walk, taking in Ardgowan Estate and Lunderston Bay. For more information contact Renfrewshire Walking Network.

THURSDAY 27TH

Movie Night - Mama Mia – Here I Go Again The Old Kirk, 40 High Street, Kilmacolm 7pm for 7.30pm Free entry and the offer of a glass of wine. Donation if desired to support the creation of a Pilgrim Pathway in Kilmacolm.

FRIDAY 28TH

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Terrace Lunch St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 12noon Open to all, come along for some nice food and a chat. Home made soup, rolls, sandwiches, tea/coffee and biscuit. Carers and tots welcome too, high chairs available. Little ones go free. £4. St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Terrace Lunch St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Road, Bridge of Weir 12noon Open to all, come along for some nice food and a chat. Home made soup, rolls, sandwiches, tea/coffee and biscuit. Carers and tots welcome too, high chairs available. Little ones go free. £4.

Eilidh Grant and Band Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 8pm The Carrick Night Spring concerts continue! Eilidh is also one third of the Glasgow based, all Scottish folk girl band, The Celtic Quines, along with the fantastic tenor banjo and fiddle player Celine Donoghue and the wonderful flute and whistle player Katherine MacLeod. Tickets: Single Concert: £12 (Adult) £5 (Child/Student). For more information and tickets please call 01505 229597 or email: thecarrickcentre@ gmail.com Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 8pm The Carrick Night Spring concerts continue! Eilidh is also one third of the Glasgow based, all Scottish folk girl band, The Celtic Quines, along with the fantastic tenor banjo and fiddle player Celine Donoghue

FRIDAY 28TH - SATURDAY 29TH

The Lovers Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8 Steeple Square, Kilbarchan The Carrick Players next performance will be Lovers by Brian Friel. You will laugh and cry as we explore the varieties of love in two short complementary plays set in rural Ireland. Tickets available from thecarrickplayers.eventbrite.co.uk

March

SUNDAY 1ST

Acoustic Nights - River Inn The River Inn, Houston Road, Houston 8pm to 10pm With local musicians Scowlin’ Wolf with special guest Paisley singer/guitarist Jim Rough. If you are interested in playing contact Rab on 07415 119754 or at: 1robertwilson@gmail.com

Lilias Day 2020

Get involved in Lilias Day 2020 Plans are well underway for Lilias Day 2020! This years event will be held on Saturday 6th June and include another brilliant line-up of entertainment including our well established parade, charity stalls, arena entertainment, medieval village, food village, music tent, craft village, kids entertainment tent, zorbing, scarecrow competition 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! And if Lilias Day itself couldn’t get any better we now have Lilifest to extend the fun in stalls, arena entertainment,

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 17th 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 fi tting Saturday 21st March 12noon - 3pm, Old Library Centre, Kilbarchan. Decorate a fl oat and join one of the best parades in Scotland! Email us if you haven’t booked yours yet. Numbers limited. Nominate Miss Lilias 2020. If you, or someone you know would make an ideal Miss Lilias let us know before 20th March. Give the village a makeover by decorating your house or creating a scarecrow. We had some amazing entries last year so looking forward to seeing this years creations.

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 Find us on Facebook www. liliasday.co.uk event, it is a great way to raise in our brochure please email us at the email address below.

make an ideal Miss Lilias let us know before 20th March. Give the village a makeover by decorating your house or creating a scarecrow. entries last year so looking forward to seeing this years creations.

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.

The Bridge Art Exhibition The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Exhibiting the work of Gary McIlkenny - featuring oil paintings with a mainly urban theme inspired by local scenes and his travels in France and the USA.

TUESDAY 3RD

Fairtrade Chocolicous Morning Houston Primary School, Crosslee Road, Houston 10.15am to 11.45am Indulge yourself in our Fairtrade event. Extensive Fairtrade Hot Chocolate Menu, Chocolate cake and other chocolate goodies. Willy Wonka would be jealous of what we have planned. Come along and join us.

WEDNESDAY 4TH

Free Early evening legal advice sessions St Vincent’s Hospice, Midton Road, Howwood 5pm to 6.30pm Appointments are available to discuss Wills and Powers of Attorney from voluntary trusted local solicitors. Confidential professional advice and information to help you plan for your future without commitment or obligation, donations welcome to support the work of the Hospice. To book your appointment, please contact June Burgess, Legacy Officer at St. Vincent’s Hospice on 01505 705 635 or email: june.burgess@svh.co.uk

Howwood Curling Club - Come & Try Curling Bowfi eld Road, Howwood, PA9 1DE 8.30pm No experience necessary. All welcome, whatever your age or ability, with a qualified coach to give you the tuition. Come along and meet our club members and get to play. All equipment provided. If you wish to attend please contact Lachie Carmichael: lachiedcarmichael@hotmail. com or 01294 823643. £6 per person.

THURSDAY 5TH

Outlook Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm Gentle Keep Fit with Grace.

Kilmacolm Civic Trust Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7pm to 8.30pm AGM from 7pm - 7.45pm, followed by an Illustrated Talk titled “A Passion for Fashion” by Graham Hunter, Costume designer for TV, Film and Theatre. Open to all residents of Kilmacolm, Quarriers and the surrounding Countryside.

FRIDAY 6TH

RSPB Local Group McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, Renfrew 7.30pm An illustrated talk by James Silvey “The RSPB’s work on toads, bumblebees and beetles”. All welcome.

World Day of Prayer in Houston St Fillan’s Catholic Church, Main St, Houston, Johnstone PA6 7EL 7.30pm World Day of Prayer prepared by the Christian Women of Zimbabwe. Everyone most Welcome. Tea & cakes after the service.

World Day of Prayer Local Service St Columba’s Church, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm 1.30pm ‘Rise, Take up your Mat and Walk!’ Share worship and fellowship with people around the world for the World Day of Prayer. Children from Kilmacolm Primary School will be singing for us. Refreshments after the Service. Everyone welcome! If you want to know more about the event, please call. Maureen Russell, Convenor (telephone 872905; mob. 07905 950028)

FRIDAY 6TH - SUNDAY 8TH

OKFest 2020 - Kilmacolm’s 4th annual Festival of Sound Kilmacolm Old Kirk & Kidston Hall Kilmacolm Something for all ages and tastes! Events all weekend, With McHart Ceilidh Band, Handbell performances and workshops, Poetry and Literature, Choral Festival, Riverside Youth Band, Local singing duo + an ‘Open Mike’ session. More details at www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk or Facebook: Kilmacolm Old Kirk. Free Entry.

FRIDAY 6TH - SUNDAY 29TH

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival Lochwinnoch Cross Come along and listen to some fantastic music - from choirs to opera, exhibitions, authors, come and try classes and many more. We have something for everyone!! Tickets available from The Junction Café and Now and Then. Online tickets only for Christine Bovill, The Rose Room, Alan Bissett, Rock Night and Janey Godley online www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk or online Box office Paisley Art Centre 0300 300 1210 Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm.

SATURDAY 7TH

Kilbarchan Singers Coffee Morning Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 10am to 12noon Cakes! Cakes! Cakes! Come on down to support your local singing group. All welcome! £3

Village Art Class, Kilmacolm Mini Art Show Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm Come along and peruse some quality art work by our enthusiastic members which is very modestly priced - you might just see something you like. It’s Farmers Market Day and also the Coffee Morning in aid of Motor Neuron Disease.

MND Coffee Morning 2nd Floor, Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon Why not pop along for a cuppa, a chat and some fabulous home baking. £3

Freeland Focus on : The Vine Trust Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 7pm Speaker Lois Sproat (Volunteer at The Vine Trust) with music from Freeland Praise Band. Meal served at 7pm - All welcome. www.freelandchurch.org.uk

Firefighters Charity Car Wash Renfrew Fire Station, Paisley Road, Renfrew PA4 8LJ 11am to 3pm Come get your car washed, meet the fire fighters and see the fire engines and help raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity - a great cause.

Saturday 7th March from 11am to 3pm Renfrew Fire Station, Paisley Road, Renfrew PA4 8LJ Every year hundreds of fi re stations across the UK compete against each other to wash as many cars as possible and raise as much money as possible for The Fire Fighters Charity. Come get your car washed, meet the fi re fi ghters and see the fi re engine all to raise money for a great cause.

Craft Fair

Saturday 21st March from 11am to 2pm With various stands, home baking, gifts, arts and more! Free entry | Cafe open. Tables available at £10, for details contact: 0141 883 1918 Paisley Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND www.facebook.com/paisleycorps

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society

40th Anniversary Concert Sunday 15th March @ 7.30pm (doors open 6.45 pm), Paisley Abbey

Brahms Requiem - Ravel Le Tombeau de Couperin Ondrej Soukup : Conductor Catrin Woodru : Soprano Colin Murray: Baritone Orchestra from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Tickets £12/ £5 students/ accompanied children free: Tickets available at the door, online: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/ book/event?eid=8431 or Tel: 01505 816110 or 01505 612874, Email: coatschoral@btinternet.com or from Choir members

The Carrick Players : The Lovers

Performances on the 28th & 29th February at Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre What does it mean to win in love? Lovers: Winners & Losers by Brian Friel tells the story of two relationships; a tragic young romance and a jaded mid-life courtship. You will laugh and cry as we explore the varieties of love in two short complementary plays set in rural Ireland. Performances on the 28th & 29th February at The Wynd Centre, Paisley. Tickets available from thecarrickplayers. eventbrite.co.uk

Rangers Hike Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Join us for a hike and learn about Finlaystone’s past, natural history and some wonderful Clydeside views.

MONDAY 9TH

Stargazing Evening Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch 7pm to 9pm Join a local astronomer to learn about our night sky. Indoor presentation if weather poor. For more information tel: 01505 842882 or to book go to the parks website www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 11TH

Lochwinnoch - Glengarnock Circular (10mls/16.6km) Lochwinnoch Railway Station, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF 10.30am A walk along the cycle path and back roads. For more information contact: Renfrewshire Walking Network or Rangers 01505 843271.

THURSDAY 12TH

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society Talk The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir 8pm Pick up some tips on ‘Getting To Know Your Soil’. If you want to make the most of what you’ve got – come along and if you’re new to gardening or thinking it’s time to refresh your ideas – definitely come along.

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

FRIDAY 13TH

St Anthonys Primary School Race Night Lillybank Bowling Club,36 Brewery Street Johnstone, PA5 8BQ 7pm A fabulous fun night for family, friends and community to relax and enjoy racing, games, and ultimately raise funds for the children of St Anthony’s. Tickets from the school or purchased at the door on the night. 18+ night. Buffet included. £5.

SATURDAY 14TH

Scottish Huntington’s Association Family Ceilidh Pollokshaw Burgh Hall, Glasgow 7.30pm to 11.30pm A night of Ceilidh Dance … Bringing cultures from around the world together through music and dance. Come along and have a good old knees up with music from Andy Gordon Ceilidh Band. Children welcome. Any questions, please contact Linda on 0141 848 0308 or by emailing linda. winters@hdscotland.org

SUNDAY 15TH

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, bags n broaches, soaps, art work, sweets, cards, books and much more...... Something for everyone! We would love to see you there! Children go free (Tea and coffee included). All funds raised will go towards World Challenge. £2.

Thomas Coats Memorial Choral Society Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close 7.30pm 40th Anniversary Concert Brahms Requiem Ravel Le Tombeau de Couperin (doors open 6.45 pm). Tickets £12/ £5 students/ accompanied children free: available at the door, online: https://www.trybooking. com/uk/book/event?eid=8431 phone: 01505 816110 or 01505 612874, Email: coatschoral@btinternet.com or from Choir members.

WEDNESDAY 18TH

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society March Lecture Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm Our guest speaker is the highly popular Louise Bustard, senior curator at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Her presentation will feature ‘The Gardens of the Italian Lakes’. Everyone welcome. Please bring along your exhibits for the Spring Bulb Competition, judged by Louise Bustard, with the award of the prestigious Jimmy Whittet trophy.

THURSDAY 19TH

Outlook Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm The Archie Gardner Trio.

FRIDAY 20TH - SATURDAY 21ST

Fox-tot! Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock 10am - 11.30am (Fri) 10am (Sat) Set in a woodland world where anything can happen, this engaging mix of music and puppetry is an interactive opera experience for kids and adults to enjoy together – a magical journey of discovery for those taking their first small steps into the big wide world.

Art Sale 2020 Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am - 5.30pm (Fri) 10am - 4pm (Sat) ‘The Kilmacolm Class’ group of artists host their art show in the open gallery. A warm welcome awaits with a colourful selection of painting in all mediums. Paintings available for sale with prices to suit most budgets. Gouache paintings by Susan Murphy one of its longest established artists. A lovely way to spend a morning, browse around the show with coffee shop on the doorstep. Adults £1. Children over 5 - 50p.

SATURDAY 21ST

Gaelic Learners Day Wallneuk North Church, Abercorn Street, Paisley PA3 4AG 10am to 4pm Classes at 4 levels, Recent Beginners, Lower Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced. Includes sandwich lunch. Places MUST be booked in advance. Contact fios@clanngaidhlig.org or 07854 061793. £15 (£12 members).

Tree Planting Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road nr Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10.30am to 3pm Come and help plant 4,000 native trees. All tools and equipment provided. If coming for the full day bring a packed lunch (drop in anytime). Phone beforehand to get the work location. For more information tel: 01505 843271.

Kilbarchan Messy Church Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 4pm to 6pm Our theme this month is ‘Easter/Springtime.’’ Come along and join in the fun with games, crafts, stories & song. All young people will be made very welcome, just remember to bring an adult along with you.

Kilmacolm’s 4th annual Festival of Sound Friday 6th - Sunday 8th March 2020 Kilmacolm Old Kirk & Kidston Hall Free Entry. Donations welcome to help cover costs. Something for all ages and tastes! Events all weekend!

FRIDAY 6TH MARCH

The McHart Ceilidh Band Kidston Hall 7.30pm BYOB

SATURDAY 7TH

Handbell performance and workshop 11am to 12noon

Poetry and Literature Readings 2pm to 4pm

Choral Festival (Glasgow Youth Choir & Westerton Male Voice Choir) 7pm to 9pm

SUNDAY 8TH

Local young singing duo performing soft rock and country and western songs. Plus an ‘Open Mike’ session from 3.30pm

ADDITIONAL DATE!

SATURDAY 28TH

Riverside Youth Band in Concert

More details at: www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk or Facebook: Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Sunday Continental

New for 2020! Sunday Continental is a new monthly live music event starting this month on the 16th February at Paisley Arts Centre Workshop from 11am - 1pm. A laid back daytime event with live music and refreshments. Listen, chat, dance, read, play. Enjoy. For everyone: age 0 – 100+. Upcoming Dates: 15th March, 19th April, 17th May For more details, visit https://renfrewshireboxo ce.ticketsolve. com/shows/1173600567

Paisley Abbey

Sunday 22nd March, 7.30pm

J.S. Bach - B Minor Mass

Mhairi Lawson (soprano) Beth Margaret Taylor (alto) David Lee (tenor) Laurens Macklon (baritone) Colin Murray (bass) Paisley Abbey Choir George McPhee conductor With an orchestra of leading Baroque musicians drawn from across the UK Tickets £20, available via The Abbey Shop, or tel: 0141 889 7654 or bminor.eventbrite.co.uk Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland) Registered Charity No. SC007633 www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

FARMERS MARKETS 1st SAT Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm 1st & 3rd SUN Loch Lomond Shores 10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861 2nd SAT & last SAT Paisley Cross 10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217 2nd SUN Kip Marina, Inverkip 11am - 4pm www.kipmarina.co.uk

Bishopton Art Group Annual Spring Art and Craft Fair Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, 10am to 3pm Showcasing a great selection of art and craftwork at affordable prices that will make ideal gifts for that someone special. Visitors can vote for their favourite painting and win a gift voucher. Tea, Coffee and delicious home baking available. 5-minute walk from railway station, free car parking. Free event.

Kilmacolm Girl Guides Daffodil Spring Fayre St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm 2pm to 4pm With crafts, tombola, Easter eggs, home baking, Mother’s Day gifts and much more. Entry is £3 for adults and £1.50 for children. Afternoon tea is included. £3/£1.50.

Craft Fair Paisley Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND 11am to 2pm With various stands, home baking, gifts, arts and more! Free entry | Cafe open Tables available at £10, for details contact: 0141 883 1918. www.facebook.com/ paisleycorps

SUNDAY 22ND

Paisley Abbey Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley 7.30pm J.S. Bach B Minor Mass with Mhairi Lawson soprano, Beth Margaret Taylor alto, David Lee tenor, Laurens Macklon baritone, Colin Murray bass, Paisley Abbey Choir, George McPhee conductor. With an orchestra of leading Baroque musicians drawn from across the UK. Tickets available via The Abbey Shop, or telephone: 0141 889 7654 bminor.eventbrite.co.uk £20.

Den Build Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm Do you know your lean-on from your tripod and Y-pole? Learn all about den-building and make your own, with some fire-lighting tutorials thrown in!

WEDNESDAY 25TH

Inverkip – Wemyss Bay walk linear (8.3mls/13kms) Inverkip Railway Station, Inverkip, Greenock PA16 0BB 11am A walk from Inverkip via the Leapmoor forest to Wemyss Bay. Hopefully we will see lovely views over the Clyde Estuary. For more information contact: Renfrewshire Walking Network or Rangers 01505 843271.

THURSDAY 26TH

Movie Night The Old Kirk, 40 High Street, Kilmacolm 7pm for 7.30pm Free entry and the offer of a glass of wine. Donation if desired to support the creation of a Pilgrim Pathway in Kilmacolm.

Scottish Golf Show 2020 SEC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow Bringing together the biggest brands in golf, over 100 exhibitors, a range of interactive golf challenges and thousands of golf enthusiasts from across Scotland and the UK.

SATURDAY 28TH

1st Bridge of Weir Scout Group Fundraising Race Night Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir 7.30pm Tickets includes Buffet. Prizes to be won. Spaces are limited. Please contact your Section Leader or Teresa McQuarrie on 07444 886 154 for tickets/sponsor. £5.

Alison McNeill and Sasha Savaloni Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 8pm The Carrick Night Spring concerts continue! Alison and Sasha have established themselves as the foremost voice and guitar duo in Scotland. 2 course meal (table service) available before the concert in our Café. 2 courses £15 a third course is available at extra cost (BYOB) Tickets: Single Concert: £12 (Adult) £5 (Child/ Student). For more information and tickets please call 01505 229597 or email: thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

A Cèilidh, with Fèis Phàislig and Caolas Wynd Theatre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley, PA1 2DB 7.15pm Traditional music and song from the students and tutors of Fèis Phàislig. They will be joined by the group Caolas, senior students at Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu. Places MUST be booked in advance. Contact fios@clanngaidhlig.org or phone 07854 061793. £5 (U16 - Free).

Kilmacolm Community Clean Up Carriages Car Park 10am Join in the Kilmacolm Community Clean Up, help clear the litter from the verges of the roads and pathways in and out of the village. Dress for the weather and terrain and bring a pair of gardening gloves. Litter pickers, garbage bags and high viz vests will be provided.

SUNDAY 29TH

Can you bake the perfect fruit scone? McKillop Hall, Main Street, Lochwinnoch Why not enter the third Scone-noisseur of the World Contest? Prizes for best home, professional and under 16 bakers and best presentation. For more information and an entry form please contact: David Bain, worldsconemaking@gmail.com for details

Mother’s Day Walk Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm A gentle stroll through the forest with moderate slopes, followed by a cream tea in our garden’s tearoom. Sturdy footwear and warm layers required.

Fundraising Race Night

1st Bridge Of Weir Scout Group Saturday 28th March from 7.30pm, Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir. Tickets - £5 Inc. Bu et. You are welcome to sponsor (in advance): Race for £25 | Horse or Jockey for £5 Prizes to be won. Spaces are limited. Please contact your Section Leader or Teresa McQuarrie on 07444 886 154 for tickets/sponsor.

Galic Learners Day and Ceilidh

Gaelic Learners’ Day. 21st March, 10am- 4pm Wallneuk North Church Halls, Abercorn Street, Paisley, PA3 4AB. Classes at 4 levels, Recent Beginners, Lower Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced. Cost £15 (£12 ClannGàidhlig members) includes sandwich lunch. Places MUST be booked in advance. Contact fi os@clanngaidhlig.org or phone 07854 061793

A Cèilidh, with Fèis Phàislig and Caolas 28th March, 7:15 pm Wynd Centre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley, PA1 2DB. Traditional music and song from the students and tutors of Fèis Phàislig. This year they will be joined by the group Caolas, senior students at Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu, who performed at the Barrowland with Trail West at last year’s National Mòd. Cost £5 (under-16s FREE). To book tickets, contact fi os@clanngaidhlig.org or phone 0780 591 8509

Janey Godley ‘Soup Pot’ Tour Comes to Lochwinnoch 2020

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival are delighted to announce that Janey Godley will be performing the fi nal show of the festival this year on Sunday 29th March. Described by The List as Glasgow’s Comedy Queen. Not to be missed! www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

Fox-tot!

47 20th March - 10am - 11.30am & 21st March - 10am Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock. For 18-24 month olds A little fox is sent on an adventure to explore the world and learn to see through the eyes of other creatures. Set in a woodland world where anything can happen, this engaging mix of music and puppetry is an interactive opera experience for kids and adults to enjoy together – a magical journey of discovery for those taking their fi rst small steps into the big wide world. Running time approx. 45 mins.