321 January / February 2022 - Gryffe Advertizer by Gryffe Advertizer

No.321:

January/ february 2022

2 3

LOCAL NEWS FOR: • BRIDGE OF WEIR • BROOKFIELD • HOUSTON • HOWWOOD • KILBARCHAN • KILMACOLM • LANGBANK • LOCHWINNOCH • QUARRIERS

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Cover Image: Winter at the Knapps by Chloe McGinn

Next Deadline: March 2022 Deadline 9th February 2022 Contact us: 01505 613340 07521 651936 info@advertizer.co.uk www.advertizer.co.uk @GryffeAds 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN

A delayed start... There was quite a bit of uncertainty and ever changing Covid statistics during December. And since we needed to go to print earlier leading up to the Christmas break, we took the decision to hold back publishing and distributing our usual New Year issue. So, a little bit later than expected, our combined January/February 2022 issue is now with you all. We’re delighted that we’ve got plenty of news to share with you all. Despite the introduction of some restrictions, we’ve also got some events to share with you. As usual, please check with the venue prior to the date just to make sure there are no changes. Our next issue will cover March, so please make sure we get all your details in plenty of time. The deadline will be Wednesday 9th February 2022.

Shop local - support your community! In this issue... White Cart Bridge Reopens

Schools & Sports

Local History

Regular Meets

Village News

10-25

Host - Carrick Centre Coming Events Big Sponsored Walking Challenge

Out & About

30-35 35 36-39

Sales & Wants

26-29

Classified Ads

Advertizer Ads Directory

Previous issues available online: www.advertizer.co.uk/online-issue/

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:52:03

Celebrate Burns Night in style at the annual ACCORD Hospice Burns Supper being held at The Glynhill Hotel, 169 Paisley Road, Renfrew PA4 8XB on Friday 14th January, 7pm - 11pm We look forward to welcoming our guests for a fantastic night with a three course Burns themed meal including the traditional haggis, neeps and tatties! The Immortal Memory, the toast to the lassies and the reply for the lassies are all part of the programme for the night. Tickets £35 each available from https://accordhospice.org.uk/ supporting-us/events/burns-supper-2022 We hope you will consider joining ACCORD for all things Burns!

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DETACHED OR OLDER SEMI WITH SUNNY GARDEN PREFERRED PRIVATE CASH BUYER WAITING

Please call: 07753 659804 local community, local business, local life .........

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07/01/2022 10:52:08

White Cart bridge in Paisley reopens A key footbridge across the White Cart has reopened to the public after more than 25 years and will soon form part of a new walking and cycle route from Renfrew to Paisley. Originally a rolling lift Bascule Bridge built by Scottish engineer Sir William Arrol, the bridge at Abercorn Street in Paisley had been closed for more than two decades before Renfrewshire Council commissioned works earlier this year to strengthen and refurbish the structure. Repairs included strengthening of the steelwork, coating with protective paint, new lighting, and landscaping around the entrances to the bridge on Carlile Street and Abercorn Street – with the works carried out by W.I. & A. Gilbert Ltd and overseen by Sweco UK Ltd The bridge will form a key part of the Renfrew to Paisley cycle route, planned for construction in 2022, as well as complementing the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project and Glasgow Airport Cycle Route. The refurbishment of the bridge also precedes £38million of investment from the Levelling Up Fund for the area, which includes a new road bridge over the White Cart, an east-west road linking Renfrew Road and Love Street and enhance links with Paisley town centre, Glasgow Airport and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:52:12

Lochwinnoch International Aid & Fairtrade The annual Fairtrade Fortnight is with us again and will take place between 21st February and 6th March. Over the fortnight the Fairtrade Foundation will run a range of events on the theme of “Choose the World you Want” and as with last year, and the continuing uncertainty on covid restrictions, these will be on-line. Search out the Fairtrade website (https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/) to see what’s going on and discover (or re-discover) what Fairtrade is about. Also check out the LIA Facebook page (Lochwinnoch International Aid and Fairtrade) and discover what activities we will be running during the fortnight. In November the UN COP 26 summit was held in Glasgow. Fairtrade campaigners promoted the “Be Fair With Your Climate Promise” challenge to world leaders at the summit. Falling commodity prices and disruptions to supply chains make it more important than ever to ensure farmers receive a fair price for their produce. Here’s a salutary tale about bananas. The Lochwinnoch community larder, gets many boxes and bunches of bananas delivered from local supermarkets. Whilst it’s good to be able to share this ‘waste’ fruit around the village it does make you wonder about the food chain supplies that we are all tied into. You wonder why, when faced with unsold foodstuffs, the supermarkets do not simply reduce their purchases. However, when you think about it, we are at the end of a very long conveyor belt connecting producers to consumers. In the case of bananas this belt stretches right across the Atlantic. At the far end are banana producers, especially the Fairtrade ones, who depend on contracts being maintained so that their livelihoods can be maintained. Fairtrade products provide not only wages but social benefits such as extra money for health care, education and community development. A lot of the bananas arriving at the larder are not even fully ripe, presumably because they are deemed unattractive by the supermarkets. A recent study in Sweden showed that bananas are the most wasted fruit from supermarket shelves. Ripe (even browning) bananas have benefits, they’re easier to digest because of the simple sugars, and bananas actually gain more (health giving) antioxidants as they ripen! Plus, they make a great replacement for dairy in baking. A lot of people are now making banana bread - delicious! Green bananas are high in resistant starch and low in sugars, so they’re a better option for those with Type 2 Diabetes. So, the message is ‘Don’t be too picky, pick ripe, and pick Fairtrade! Shopping choices do make a difference so when you are out in our local shops and supermarkets look out for and buy products carrying the Fairtrade Mark. Do be choosy and choose Fairtrade. If you are interested in joining or contributing via our monthly subscription scheme you can contact us at lochintaid@gmail.com or telephone 07702 544868. If you just want to make occasional one-off donations to LIA use our JUSTGIVING link; Link.justgiving.com/…/donate/charityId/3085816. The link is also available via our Facebook page (Lochwinnoch International Aid and Fairtrade)

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06/01/2022 10:04:16

Soroptimists from Paisley ORANGE the world! 25th November marked the UN International Day of the Elimination of Violence against Women, and the start of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence which ended on 10th December (Human Rights Day). Members of Soroptimist International of Paisley joined other Soroptimists across the world taking action and calling for the Elimination of Violence against Women. At our meeting everyone wore something orange and brought along ‘orange’ foodstuffs which were then donated to Renfrewshire Foodbank. It was amazing how imaginative members were with their donated items! Several members also joined Provost Lorraine Cameron and others to lay a wreath in Dunn Square, Paisley to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence. www.sigbi.org/paisley

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 10:04:20

Local history Johnstone History Society We are now into 2022 and had our first meeting on the 11th January in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30pm. The first speaker of the new year was Brian Hannah his topic was “Paisley at the Pictures”. Being a local topic were hoping for a good attendance of both members and visitors and all were made welcome. At this moment Covid-19 restrictions will still be in place, but with the uncertainty of he new variant, things could change. The Museum closed on the 18th December and reopened on January 5th. Our hours will be as usual Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.30am till 4pm. For sale will be all our usual books and pamphlets, all of which can be purchased online at www.johnstonehistory.org and payment made via PayPal. If we have any calendars left these will be available to purchase.

Improvements to the National Cycle Route network Renfrewshire Council have been awarded £143,000 from Sustrans Scotland to upgrade the National Cycle Route network in Renfrewshire. Areas in Bridge of Weir to be included are link to Horsewood Road - lowering the kerb, a new link to Livery Square to include removing barriers and installing a ramp, Prieston Road improving access to the route at an entrance/exit. Renfrewshire Council advises that due to the nature of this funding, works will begin in mid-January 2022 and the aim for the contractor to complete them by the end of March 2022.

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 10:04:28

village news WARD 11 Cllr James W.H. MacLaren I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas and New Year celebrations despite fears of the new Omicron virus. As I write this message at the start of December I realise that there is so much going on in my ward. In Langbank discussions are ongoing for a new footbridge that would link the village back to the shore line. Bonnie Bishopton is brightening up their village with Christmas lights and daffodil bulbs have been planted. Groups are putting on their thinking caps to decide their plans for 2022 and what funding they need to apply for. Following lobbying from the Dargavel Residents Association and myself, a new 20mph sign will be erected on Barrangary Road by 17th December. The Police have consented to the erection of 20mph speed limit signs before the installation of the traffic calming measures and this has resulted in BAE giving a commitment from them to have the 20mph signs erected. A wee Christmas present perhaps, and in place prior to the opening of the new school. Can I take this opportunity to wish all the pupils and staff all the very best as they start back in the New Year at the new Dargavel Primary School. It would have been nice to have been in sooner, but better late than never. I am sure it will also be a relief to pupils and staff at Bishopton Primary School as they get their school back. I think we now need to chase the council up to give a much needed refurbishment to this school. It will surely come as some relief to residents of Thriplee Road and surrounds in Bridge of Weir that the field to the west was not included in Renfrewshire Council’s approved Local Development Plan. It won’t stop planning applications being submitted for the site, but it makes it much more difficult for a developer to get planning permission. Meanwhile development progresses on the “brown field site” in Dargavel towards the target of 4,000 new homes over the next 30 years, or sooner with the speed they are going up at. I am now able to hold surgeries and these will be Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir – 2nd Monday of the month, Bishopton Primary School – 3rd Monday of the month. The times are 6.30pm to 7pm. You do not need to book. I am also available by tel. 0300 300 1291 or you can email me cllr.james. maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk Working with you and improving our local area. Please feel free to contact me with any of your concerns, and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time.

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Affluent Community Fund Lochwinnoch Early learning and childcare class provides pre- school learning from children from 3 - 5years of age. Our aim is to provide a safe, stimulating, and fun environment both indoors and outdoors for the children to have access to at all times. We promote positive learning to ensure our children become responsible citizens, confident individuals, effective contributors, and successful learners. This generous contribution will enable us to purchase an outdoor shelter/classroom structure that could be used by the nursery children and the local community. This would allow families and children in the local community access to a stimulating, safe environment whatever the weather and help to become connected with the benefits of the outdoors whilst supporting physical and mental wellbeing. Whilst the nursery could use this structure to continue learning during wet weather it would further support and contribute to our joint partnership with the community garden who could have access to this out with nursery hours for a reflection area/ outdoor space whilst attending the gardens. The staff of Lochwinnoch Early learning and childcare class would like to thank Affluent Financial planning Ltd for supporting this project for us.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:14

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir Happy New Year to our customers, volunteers and employees. Thank you for using the Post Office and related Shop during 2021. The Co-op Local Community Fund - many thanks to the Co-op and all the residents of Bridge of Weir who supported The Bridge through their Coop loyalty card during the past year. The money raised will be put to good use in improving our environment for the benefit of our customers. Lettings - A few local groups have recommenced their meetings in The Bridge. Our private room is hired by our Local MSP and MP and one of our Councillors. The room is available for hire during our opening hours at an hourly cost of £10. Hearing Aid Batteries - continue to be available. The Shop - throughout the year we are continually reviewing our stock of cards and introducing new designs to ensure our extensive selection of Greetings Cards is maintained. The Bridge is the go-to place to buy your essential stationery items, postcards of your local area and pocket-money toys. Post Office - as more and more local Post Offices close it is important we use our service, which is open for at least 3 hours each day apart from Sunday. Opening times are detailed below. Cinema - a film will be shown at 7pm on the first Thursday of the month. Please call into The Bridge for more information. As we enter another year we extend a ‘Thank You’ to our team of dedicated volunteers as without them The Bridge could not operate. Opening Hours: Monday:10am - 1pm & 2pm - 5pm; Tuesday to Saturday: 10am - 1pm

Bridge of Weir SWI Our first meeting of the new year was on Thursday 6th January at 7.30pm in the Cargill Hall. Our speaker Mary Ward spoke about her work as a vet in America. It was a fascinating subject with all new members and guests welcomed. Our Christmas meal at Old Ranfurly Golf Club was very enjoyable and we were well looked after by the staff there. Now that 2022 is here we are also looking forward to the SWI Federation Show to be held this year in Bridge of Weir on March 17th - 19th at the Cargill Hall. We hope this will attract many visitors and members are already planning and working on exhibits.

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07/01/2022 10:55:18

ward 10 Cllr Audrey Doig Over the festive period I have been dealing with various blocked drains in the centre of Houston. If they have not already been cleaned out they are scheduled to be unblocked in the near future. Historically Renfrewshire Council has not been as diligent over the decades as it could have been, regarding an efficient and regular system of gulley cleaning in villages like Houston, Crosslee, and Brookfield, but now funding has increased year on year for Environmental Services, to make a real difference in this regard. Ardgryffe Park is an excellent facility for Houston, but nearby residents have raised with me the problem of the floodlights at the park coming on when the park is not being used. I have asked the Environmental Services team to investigate this, and to modify the switch on protocol for the park. When I get the report back from council officers we hope to ensure that both sports activities can regularly continue, but that energy can be conserved when the park is not being used. I wish to give a heartfelt congratulations to Gryffe High for being found to be one of the top ten schools in Scotland, yet again, according to the prestigious annual Sunday Times school survey. This reflects extremely well on the whole school team of the Headteacher and staff, the pupils and parents, and the work undertaken with the Parent Council and the wider community. We are very lucky that ,at the time of writing, we seem to have escaped the worst of the winter weather, however, I would remind all residents in my ward that there are a system of grit containers across our villages. If residents feel they need refilled with grit then please go to Underwood Road in Paisley and get more. It is so important, especially for the elderly, that people can go out safely. As we enter the New Year let us hope that we continue to journey into normalcy and out of the clutches of Covid 19 and its variants. Contact Details for Cllr Audrey Doig I am now resuming advice surgeries again, for information please call me on 07768 130935, and you can also e mail me on cllr.audrey.doig@ renfrewshire.gov.uk if you have a civic matter you wish to raise.

Houston & Crosslee SWI It is lovely being able to meet up again in person. Our first meeting of 2022 was on 12th January when we listened to some of the very interesting talks that Womankind by SWI organised during lockdown. In February we will have or annual meal in a local restaurant. We are meeting this year in The Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. Please come and join us, you will be made very welcome. If you would like further information please phone 07932 459994.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:22

What’s on

jan ‘22

H.O.S.T

THE CARRICK CENTRE, HOUSTON

Monday to Friday Gryffe Manor Out of School 01505 615438. Dance West Scotland enquiries@dancewestscotland.co.uk Coffee Shop: - Mon/Sat. 10am/3pm Takeaways only check FB for updates in line with Covid 19 Gov guidelines. Coffee Shop/Centre 01505 229597.

Booking enquiries: Bill Haddow 01505 690693, Stewart Scally 01505 674277 Joe O’Brien 07968 804776 E: thecarrickcentre@gmail.com or hostbookings@outlook.com

MONDAY

thursday

Diaporama 10th 7.30pm Sewing Group 17th 10am -12noon WRYF 10th 17th 24th 7.15pm Rhythm Time (start 10th) 9.15am

Gryffe Quilting Group (start 13th) 1pm - 13th 27th;10am - 20th Crafty Friends 6th/20th 7.30pm Folk Club (start 6th) 8pm Move it or Lose it 10am – 12noon Fiona Bretherton 07811 766672

DWS

(start 10th) 4pm

TUESDAY Paint Pot Tots (start TBA) 10am Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 Hazel Connelly Art (start 11th) 9.15am DWS 4pm - 7pm Yoga (start 11th) 7pm M/s Lawson 01505 613690 WRADS

19th 7pm

WEDNESDAY DWS

(start 12th)

7.30pm Moo Music (start12th) 9.30am Community Council 19th 7.30pm Womens Institute

Yoga

(start 14th) 10.30am M/s Lawson 01505 613690 DWS (start 7th) 3.30pm - 7pm 11.30am & 1.30pm M.P. Surgery14th 12.30pm – 1.30pm Gavin Newlands MP Surgery 7th 12.30pm Natalie Dawn Hugh & Liz McGhee

(start 12th) 3.30pm

Gryffe Camera Club

FRIDAY

12th 7.30pm

9am

saturday DWS

(start 8th) 9.30am - 5pm

sunday Baptist Church

11am & 6pm

Weekly Centre Patrons PLEASE ADVISE date or time changes due to Holidays to Centre Management

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07/01/2022 10:55:25

ward 9 Cllr Andy Doig Given that there was recent confusion over the hiring of Kilbarchan Public Park and indeed whether this responsibility was in the hands of Renfrewshire Council or Renfrewshire Leisure, I have determined from council officers that, unlike most public parks in Renfrewshire, the Kilbarchan Public Park is still under the jurisdiction of Renfrewshire Council. The Park is a great resource for the village and it is very positive that long awaited major investment is coming to upgrade the Park and I commend Kilbarchan Community Council for all their efforts in this direction. The Park Pavilion remains an unused resource, but I encourage villagers to come forward and contact me with ideas as to its future use. A small coffee bar of some kind would be a great asset to the Park and its users. In recent months I have been working with council officers to try and address long standing issues with flooding and drainage issues at Howwood Primary School. I understand that the source of the problem has been identified and Renfrewshire Council has started the process to procure a contractor to resolve the issue. I will continue to push the Council to get this matter resolved as soon as possible. Our schools are in essence a community resource as well as educational resource and it would be good to get corrective action by the time of the Howwood Village Fete next summer. At a special meeting of the Communities, Housing, and Planning Board in December, I made a last ditch attempt to prevent the Council adopting the flawed Local Development Plan, which includes putting Burnfoot Road into the housing land supply list, which is against the view of Lochwinnoch Community Council, the Burnfoot Road Action Group and over 800 residents who objected to this in the summer of 2019. Looking at the recent SEPA Flood Risk Survey there are clear concerns for flooding over the coming decades for all of West Renfrewshire, and I wanted a delay so this could be examined prior to adoption. Sadly, the final vote was 9/8 against my amendment, and I was especially sad that not all of Lochwinnoch’s Cllrs supported me in this crucial vote for the village. Contact Details for Cllr Andy Doig – My constituents can see me at my advice surgeries on the second Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm, Lilybank Bowling Club, Johnstone, and 7.30pm the Old Library, Kilbarchan. On the fourth Wednesday of the month they are at 6.30pm, Howwood Bowling Club, and then at 7.30pm in Lochwinnoch Bowling Club. Constituents can also email me on cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov. uk, call me on 07534 148224, facebook me on Independent Voice/ Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages, or tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8, if you have a civic matter you wish to raise with me.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:28

Connecting Houston - outline proposals online Through 2021, Houston Community Council commissioned a specialist team to produce proposals to make it easier and safer to get around Houston by walking and cycling, and to improve the quality of outdoor spaces to enjoy across the village. The work has been funded by Sustrans and Transport Scotland. The first phase took place in early 2021, when we asked people where they go and how they move around. Although that phase of consultation finished in Spring 2021, you can still explore www.connecting-houston. com/consultation with a map of routes and green spaces in Houston and what people said about them. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the consultation. You can see a summary of everyone’s suggestions www.connecting-houston.com/ posts/ It’s full of fascinating information about how people use each of the paths and green spaces around Houston and their current condition. The responses also helped to prepare outline proposals for improving Houston’s paths and spaces, which you can see at www.connectinghouston.com/proposals The Community Council is now starting to seek funding and resources for more detailed design work and then implementation of those proposals, in collaboration with other organisations.

March 2022 Deadline: 9th February 2022 send your news to info@advertizer.co.uk

Kilbarchan Parish Church Services continued with the Sacrament of Holy Communion on 2nd January at 11am, all services at 11am conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith and it is hoped that these will be live-streamed shortly. Until then, the Reflection will be available every Sunday through the church website: www.kilbarchankirk.org or by phoning 01505 805893. Kilbarchan Parish Church Guild - The guild has 2 meetings in January, at 2.30pm on Tuesday 11th - John Copeland’s topic was “People I met in my travels in Israel” and on 25th when Yvonne Nicolson talks about National Detection Dogs. All welcome.

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register We have a planning meeting on Zoom at the end of January, to plan for the next 6 months. Prior to that we have a few meetings, including the letter D - what are you most grateful for in this season of your life? - and a couple of coffee afternoons, hopefully face to face. If you are interested in finding out about the group, please visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk or phone 348627.

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07/01/2022 10:55:30

Kilbarchan Smile plant 345 trees at Callochant On the weekend of 4th & 5th December local volunteer community improvement group Kilbarchan Smile, completed the planting of 345 native broadleaved trees at Callochant Farm on the edge the village. The trees were sourced from the Woodland Trust as part of their “Big Climate Fightback”campaign. Free trees are available for schools and communities to plant around their neighbourhood. After the trial planting of a copse pack of 30 trees at the top of one field during the week, the remaining 315 trees were planted out in another field over 4 sessions on the Saturday and Sunday. Coinciding with National Tree Week and International Volunteering Day, there were 17 volunteers involved from the local area following awareness raising through the Kilbarchan Smile Facebook page. New friends were made and the weather was kind, contributing to the fun and rewarding experience. Thanks are due to them all, and especially the landowner, who had been considering some tree planting himself, but was unsure how to go about it. The Big Climate Fightback was a win-win opportunity not to be missed. The next round of applications for free trees from the Woodland Trust is available now, for delivery in March 2022. If any other local land owners out there want to contribute to carbon storage and biodiversity, look at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk and contact hello@kilbarchansmile.org.uk.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:34

Cllr Derek Bibby A New Year is a time when we can share our hopes for better in the coming year. At the beginning of 2020 optimism from the discovery of the Covid 19 vaccines and the start of the vaccination programme had encouraged these hopes and expectations. Inevitably some of our hopes were realised others were not. While the Gala days and other community events, such as the traditional switch on of the Christmas lights did not take place, we were able to get out and about more and re-establish contact with friends and family. Each one of us has had our own personal challenges over the last year and challenges have been faced by the council and other organisations in maintaining services to the public. The success or otherwise of doing this is in many ways dependent on the commitment of groups and individual workers. I want, therefore, to thank all of those workers who have shown that commitment during 2021. New Year is a time to express our hopes, wishes and expectations for the next year, so as a local councillor here are some of my own hopes and wishes for the coming year - I will be working hard to have them realised with the hope that: •

the traffic issues which are a priority for action in our villages, will begin to be seriously addressed now that the new Road Safety Policy has been approved.

•

the council will take a much firmer approach to those individuals and businesses who continue to blight our communities through fly tipping.

•

the council will listen to communities who feel they are disadvantaged by the current planning process and who unlike applicants currently have no right of appeal to planning decisions and that the council will make the necessary representation to the Scottish Government to give those communities equivalent rights.

•

the council will develop a more robust preventative response to the increasing numbers of flooding episodes that have occurred over recent years and will question the wisdom of approving planning applications in areas susceptible to flooding.

•

the upgrading of the A737 is seen as a priority by the Scottish Government.

•

as planning for the forthcoming National Care Service continues, the council will ensure that the needs of both young and older people are met and local accountability for meeting that need is preserved.

•

the council will improve its communication with constituents who have cause to contact it whether by phone or email.

If significant progress can be made on some or all of these issues then 2022 will be recalled as a year when positive change took place Finally I wish you all a Happy New Year. I can be contacted at cllr.derek.bibby@renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007

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07/01/2022 10:55:37

Friends of Howwood Park Friends of Howwood Park are bidding for a cash boost from the Tesco Community Grants initiative. Tesco works with community charity Groundwork to run its community funding scheme, which sees grants of up to £1,500, £1,000 and £500 awarded to local community projects. Three groups have been shortlisted to receive the cash award, and shoppers are being invited to vote for who they think should take away the top grant. Friends of Howwood Park is one of the groups on the shortlist, to raise funds towards the renovation of the derelict pavilion in Howwood Park to allow it to be re-opened for community use. Voting is open in the Linwood branch of Tesco in January, February and March, and customers will cast their vote using a token given to them at the check-out each time they shop. If you are not given one automatically, please ask for one. Tesco’s Community Grants scheme has already provided over £90 million to more than 40,000 projects across Britain. Tesco customers get the chance to vote for three different groups every time they shop. Every three months, when votes are collected, three groups in each of Tesco’s regions will be awarded funding. Funding is available to community groups and charities looking to fund local projects that bring benefits to communities, particularly those helping to provide food and giving children the support they need for a good start in life. Anyone can nominate a project and organisations can apply online. To find out more visit www.tesco. com/communitygrants.

Howwood Parish Church Howwood Parish Church welcomes everybody to the start of a New Year. Not the best of years, but with willing hearts we can go forward together. The Church extends an invite to all in Howwood and round about to come and join us for our Sunday services. We start at 10am each Sunday and have a Sunday School for the children. We do have to abide by current Covid restrictions. Masks have to be worn inside church, hand sanitiser to be used on entry. Social distance is still there, but Family groups and friends can sit together. We are a friendly bunch and anybody who comes would get a very warm welcome. You don’t even have to wear old fashioned “Sunday Best” as smart casual is the rule of the day. Please do come and join us in song and prayer. “ALL ARE WELCOME IN THIS PLACE”

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Advertising Feature

Spring time turns our attention to pressure washing and softwashing ready for the 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 softwashing moss on roofs, algae from render, pressure washing decking, patios, monoblock drives or anything in between, please give us a call for free, friendly information on our services or for a free quotation.

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www.nutechcleaning.co.uk January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:39

Friends Of Howwood Park Glasgow Airport Flightpath Fund

Lochwinnoch & International Aid and Fairtrade News This month we thought we’d step back and reflect on our past achievements and our aspirations for the future. To kick this off Jenny Bhatia, one of our founder members, agreed to share her thoughts on some questions put to her by a more recent member, Don Allan.

What first drew you to the LIA?

Friends of Howwood Park have been awarded the sum of £2,450 from the Glasgow Airport Flightpath Fund towards the cost of replacing the windows in the pavilion located in Howwood Park. The group are extremely grateful for this generous donation, and hope for works to commence in the next few months. An asset transfer of the building from Renfrewshire Council to the group was agreed in January.

It’s Your Neighbourhood Award ‘Friends of Howwood Park’ were assessed by ‘Keep Scotland Beautiful’ in September, as part of their ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ campaign. This is a community environmental improvement initiative run jointly by ‘Keep Scotland Beautiful’ and the ‘Royal Horticultural Society’. The initiative is designed to attract volunteer-led community groups who are looking after their neighbourhoods, and supports and encourages participating groups from across Scotland by rewarding them with certificates to acknowledge the good work being done on behalf of their communities. The awards vary from Level 1 - Establishing, to Level 5 - Outstanding. Following the assessment, ‘Friends of Howwood Park’ were delighted to be receive a ‘Level 4 - Thriving’ award and certificate.

In late 2004 there was a devastating Tsunami in SE Asia and like many people I was deeply shocked by the scale of what happened and the suffering caused. A group of folk felt a strong need to respond and to do something practical to help, however small. In 2005 we formed the LIA group with the initial target of raising £1,000 to replace a fishing boat lost in Sri Lanka. This was achieved and based on that success we decided to continue raising money for good causes around the globe. In particular we wished to focus on small charities in which members of the group had a personal connection. In my case that was a charity in Tanzania with which I’d established a strong connection during my time in Tanzania. The charity called The Amani Centre was run by an inspirational lady, Josephine Bahkita and worked with disabled children and their families.

What keeps you staying with it? Over the years we’ve had some impressive achievements and I personally have gained a strong feeling of satisfaction from being able to benefit others who are less fortunate or are facing challenges from the likes of climate change. Having direct contact with people involved with a particular charity also makes it all the more real. I’ve also enjoyed the varied ways we’ve raised money and awareness in our local community. In recent times that’s included music concerts, safari suppers, yard sales, plant sales and craft demonstrations at the Lochwinnoch Feel Good Week. During the pandemic we’ve also been able to organise on-line talks by folk sharing their experiences of particular projects. It’s lovely how helping others in the world combines with benefiting our local community through engagement in fun activities.

What have been your highlights? I’ve continued over many years to raise money by the sale of Tanzanian Jewellery and crafts whenever there’s the opportunity at community events. This has and continues to make a difference to the charity we support in Tanzania. More recently we’ve supported charities utilising appropriate paper based technology (APT), specifically in Africa. This enables bespoke furniture for disabled children to be made using recycled and readily available materials. I undertook some training in this and really enjoyed demonstrating the approach at the Feel Good Week.

What are your hopes for the future? I’d really like to see more people getting involved and joining the LIA. Lochwinnoch is blessed with a wide range of groups doing fabulous work within the community and there are many opportunities to get involved. However, I believe we are the only group where the main focus is vital work overseas and where the members are able to influence where the money goes and how it is used. If you are interested in joining or contributing via our monthly subscription scheme you can contact us at lochintaid@gmail.com or telephone 07702 544868. If you just want to make occasional oneoff donations to LIA use our JUSTGIVING link; Link.justgiving.com/…/donate/charityId/3085816. The link is also available via our Facebook page (Lochwinnoch International Aid and Fairtrade)

local community, local business, local life ......... 10-25 NEWS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 20

07/01/2022 10:55:41

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:45

Bronze and Silver for Howwood Guides Howwood Guides and Semple Rangers started back in in September 2021 with old and new faces. Over the following term work was completed and finalised for Bronze and Silver Awards. The current members worked through lockdown and restrictions, at home. They then worked on badges covering Craftivism, Geocaching, Photography, Up cycling including community projects, well being, the arts and STEM sciences. Hannah Galloway, Morven Black, Isla Colquhoun, Grace McMahon were awarded the Bronze & Silver Award and Maisie Borland the Bronze Award at South Newton, Guide campsite and training centre. Pictured are Hannah Galloway, Morven Black, Maisie Borland and Isla Colquhoun

OUTLOOK OUTLOOK is a social community group in Kilmacolm that is open and welcoming to everyone. We meet in Kidston Hall on the first and third Thursdays monthly, at 2pm. We share Friendship and Fellowship, with interesting speakers, conversation, and a delicious afternoon tea with home-baking provided by the OUTLOOK team. Dates for your New Year calendar - subject to the weather and to Covid restrictions - 6th January and 20th January; 3rd and 17th February; 3rd and 17th March; 7th and 21st April. For further information please contact Jill Russell on 01505 872393, or see the website of Kilmacolm Old Kirk www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk

Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Society The Annual Whist Drive will be held in Kilmacolm Community Centre on Friday 18th February. Tickets are priced £4 (payable on the night) to include light supper. For further information please phone Christine Kay on 07702 295182.

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07/01/2022 10:55:49

Duchal Nursery

Advertising Feature

A forward-thinking nursery providing first class early years care, Duchal Nursery School, based in Birkmyre Park Kilmacolm, is now open from 8am – 6pm daily during term time offering free places to 3 – 5 year olds. We are specialists in early years care, our nursery children progress to a variety of primary schools in Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, Glasgow and beyond. With a high teacher to pupil ratio of 1 - 6, our caring warm environment allows the children to flourish with the individual development we provide, this gives them the very best start in life. Applications for free places are now being accepted for August 2022, please email: info@duchal.com to receive your application form. If you would like to visit the nursery please get in touch to arrange a convenient time, it really is the best way to find out more about what we can offer your child.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:52

ward 1 - inverclyde cllr Stephen McCabe A happy and prosperous New Year to you all. Let’s hope 2022 finally sees us move beyond the pandemic. We are now in the final four months of this Council term. The priority as usual at this time of the year is setting the Council’s budget and Council Tax levels for the next financial year starting in April. At the time of writing this column the Council was waiting on the details of our financial settlement from the Scottish Government, which will determine the extent of any cuts in services we have to make and the level any increases in Council Tax and charges. I will provide a further update next month. I’m really proud to have been selected again as Labour’s candidate for Inverclyde East at May’s Council elections. I was born and brought up in this area and it has been my home for almost all my life. Like my fellow Labour candidates, I am ambitious for Inverclyde to be one of the best places to live in Scotland. It is already one of the most beautiful places in Scotland and with our strong sense of community, so ably demonstrated during the pandemic, it is one of the friendliest. The current Council term has been another period of progress for Inverclyde despite the huge impact of the pandemic. We have completed the renewal of our school estate and our schools continue to outperform their comparators in other areas of Scotland. We have overseen a massive expansion in early learning and childcare, supporting parents and helping children get the best possible start in life. Ongoing improvements have been made to our sport, leisure, community and outdoor play facilities. Hundreds of new affordable homes have been built across the area and we have made significant investment in upgrading our roads and street lighting. New business start-ups are at record levels and our employability programmes have supported many people into jobs. We have expanded our anti-poverty initiatives to help families in immediate need and also to lift them out of poverty in the longer term. Benchmarked against other Councils, Inverclyde delivers some of the best performing Council services in Scotland. We want to do more however and that is why I am keen to hear from constituents on what you think the Council’s priorities should be for the next five year term. Details of how to contact me are given below. I have an advice surgery in Boglestone Community Centre on Tuesday 18th January from 6.30pm - 7.30pm. In the meantime you can contact me directly to discuss any matters that are of concern to you by telephone on 01475 712020 (during office hours) or by email to Stephen.McCabe@ Inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm PA13 4HL.

March 2022 Deadline: 9th February 2022 send your news to info@advertizer.co.uk local community, local business, local life ......... 10-25 NEWS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 24

07/01/2022 10:55:54

Cllr David Wilson I trust the New Year has started well for all? I wish you a safe, healthy and prosperous Year. St Columba’s and Old Kirk Churches had joint services over the festive season, a good exercise for the future amalgamation. The Kilmacolm Dramatic Society lit matters up with their hilarious presentation of Aladdin with John Gilchrist as a convincing Dame, the Widow Twanky. The Old kirk ran a Santa’s Grotto and coffee morning in aid of various Inverclyde Charities, women’s aid and family unit, where the entrance fee was a gift. Well done all involved in the Panto and coffee morning. I attended Christmas Lights switch on in Port Glasgow, Quarriers Village and Kilmacolm. The latter was well supported by the Cargill Café who laid on nibbles and, in my case, mulled wine! P6 from KPS sang beautifully. Sandy Sharp of St Columba’s Junior switched on the lights as a reward for winning the competition for the best lit Christmas street decoration last year. The Remembrance Parade in Port Glasgow was led by St Columba’s pipe band and we were honoured to have the Deputy Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Sandra Macdougall laying the first wreath on behalf of Her Majesty. With regard to the latter I have been asked about a lasting memorial of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. I am quite persuaded by the suggestion of a Bandstand in Birkmyre Park. We have, in our schools, wonderful orchestras and ensembles that could entertain with charity concerts. There were three finalists in the election to the Scottish Youth Parliament, Caden Arthur from Port Glasgow High School was narrowly beaten to top spot, but handled himself well and was gracious to the winner. Via SPT I have contributed to the Strategic Transport Review and supported a railway line to Kilmacolm. This has to compete with 9 other proposed lines and 16 new stations. Port Glasgow Station has a large park and ride and 6 trains an hour to Glasgow during rush hour. Four commencing their journey from Gourock and two from Wemyss Bay. It is also due to have considerable access improvements financed by Network Rail and SPT. Our Community Bobby , Constable John Jamieson is retiring. We will miss him. His monthly reports to the Community Council were always illuminating and there was little going on in the village that he did not know about. We wish him a healthy retirement. Hopefully during January our sculpture honouring shipbuilders will be erected in Coronation Park in Port Glasgow. The edifice will be 10 metres (33 feet) in height and weigh 14 tonnes. The foundations are in place and I would like to think that it will be our “Kelpies”. The proposed Telecommunications 5G installation in Craigbet Road in Quarriers has been refused, the siting was all wrong. In the interest of good communications I am sure a more appropriate site will be found. I understand that two developers have shown an interest in the unfinished Institute site. This has become a bit of an eyesore and movement is most welcome. We need somebody in shining armour to complete what is architecturally sympathetic to the village centre. My January surgery is Saturday 15th 10am - 11am at the Cargill. I can be contacted on David.Wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk Tel: 01475 741969, 712975 and 07766 992294.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:55:57

coming events THURSDAY 13TH Solas Bereavement Drop-in Group Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm Lost someone you loved? The Solas Bereavement Drop-in Group supports those from Kilmacolm and surrounding areas who have lost a loved one. For more information please call Barbara Marshall on 01505 872417 or email barbara@oochy.com

FRIDAY 14 ACCORD Burns Supper TH

Glynhill Hotel, 169 Paisley Road, Renfrew 7pm to 11pm The Hospice looks forward to welcoming our guests for a fantastic night of all things Burns! ... A three course Burns themed meal including the traditional haggis, neaps and tatties! The Immortal Memory, the toast to the lassies and the reply for the lassies are all part of the programme on the night to look forward to. Tickets £35 each available from https:// accordhospice.org.uk/supporting-us/ events/burns-supper-2022

January MONDAY 10TH - MONDAY 31ST snowman treasure hunt RSPB Largs Road, Lochwinnoch 10am - 4pm Explore the woodland trail and search for the hidden wooden snowmen on RSPB Lochwinnoch’s wintry treasure hunt during January! £3 plus normal entry fees for non-members. This is a self-led activity; there is no need to book.

SATURDAY 15TH Bishopton & Dargavel Farmers Market Bishopton Train Station Car Park, off Birch Road 10am to 2pm A farmers market full of the best local produce. If you love food then you will love our market. Full compliment of stalls plus Fish from Oban, Taste of Espana, Three Sisters Bake, and All things Nice for home made chutneys and preserves. Held on the 3rd Saturday every month. https://www.facebook.com/TheBishopton-Dargavel-Farmers-Market109902924512969/

EVENT INFORMATION: Check with the venue/ organiser for updates on all events. Where we can, we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events.

SUNDAY 16TH Model Bus Show & Display

SATURDAY 22ND Whisky Galore

Bishopton Community Centre, Gledstane Road, Bishopton 9am to 4pm

Lochbarr Services, Newton of Barr, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JB 7pm

The Model Bus Federation Scotland are holding their show again in Bishopton and it will be bigger & better than previous years, we will have our usual motorised displays as well as our static displays by members, also we will have many model sales stalls, there will be a cafe available for tea/coffee etc. Adults £2 / children free. Find out more at https:// www.model-bus-federation.org.uk/

Tickets include a pre-film Q&A session, Original 1949 Whisky Galore film screening, live music & a post-film Scottish Island Malt Whisky tasting. Doors open 6.30pm. Tickets £20 (£5 donated to RNLI). Call 07761 172726.

WEDNESDAY 19TH Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Winter Lecture Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7pm Douglas Boatman, directors of Scotplants Nursery Ayrshire, is coming along, his talk on ‘Well Behaved Plants - riotous colour with controlled growth’ will be of interest to members and visitors too all are welcome. For more details of all events, please visit our website at www. kilmacolmhorticultural.com

THURSDAY 20TH OUTLOOK Social Community Group Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm We share Friendship and Fellowship, with interesting speakers, conversation, and a delicious afternoon tea with homebaking provided by the OUTLOOK team. Open and welcoming to everyone, first and third Thursdays monthly.

SUNDAY 30TH Erskine Riverside Market Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine PA8 7AF 10am to 4pm The market runs on the last Sunday of each month with a blend of Fresh produce, unique gifts, hand made items & street food. The ideal family day out on your door step. Next date 27th

February.

february SATURDAY 5TH Luxury Pop-up Breakfast West Halls Main Street Houston PA6 7EL (next to Carrick Centre and Village Hall) 9am to 11.30am Please come along, alone or with family and friends, and enjoy a luxury continental breakfast. Put the date in your diary! Donations on leaving – proceeds for sheltered workshop projects in Mwandi. Cheer up your Saturday morning!

March 2022 Deadline: 9th February 2022 send your news to info@advertizer.co.uk local community, local business, local life .........

26-29 EVENTS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 26

06/01/2022 15:43:40

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 15:43:44

SATURDAY 5TH Kilmacolm Farmers Market Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 2pm The market is held on the first Saturday each month featuring a great selection of local Scottish produce! Customer entry restricted for everyone’s safety. Please wear face masks or scarves if you can. Hand sanitizer at the entrance for you to use. We are encouraging all of the stall holders to take card payments where possible. Looking forward to seeing everyone! Free entry.

FRIDAY 18TH Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Society Annual Whist Drive Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm Tickets are priced £4 (payable on the night) to include light supper. For further information please phone Christine Kay on 07702 295182.

SATURDAY 19TH The Bishopton and Dargavel Farmers Market Bishopton Train Station Car Park, off Birch Road 10am to 2pm A farmers market full of the best local produce with a full compliment of stalls - Fish from Oban, Taste of Espana, Three Sisters Bake and All things Nice for home made chutneys and preserves. 3rd Saturday every month. Https://www. facebook.com/The-Bishopton-DargavelFarmers-Market-109902924512969/

THURSDAY 10TH Solas Bereavement Drop-in Group Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm Lost someone you loved? The Solas Bereavement Drop-in Group supports those from Kilmacolm and surrounding areas who have lost a loved one. For more information please call Barbara Marshall on 01505 872417 or email barbara@oochy.com

SUNDAY 13TH RENFREW MARKET Robertson Park, Renfrew 10am - 4pm Showcasing fresh produce, artisan crafts, unique gifts and street food from local businesses! Come down and support local businesses.

THURSDAY 17TH - SATURDAY 26TH Paisley Book Festival Paisley Arts Centre, New Street, Paisley PA1 1EZ It’s a programme filled with workshops, author events, book launches and opportunities for both established and emerging writers to showcase their work on the international stage. Next year has been designated Scotland’s Year of Stories and this exciting programme of live and online events showcases literature inspired by or written in Scotland! www.paisleybookfest.com

local community, local business, local life ......... 26-29 EVENTS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 28

06/01/2022 15:43:47

Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Johnstone Phoenix want to announce the unfortunate news, that we are having to cancel our 2022 spring shows due to the uncertainty of our performance venue. Johnstone Town hall is currently being used as a vaccine centre, carrying out essential work during this pandemic. As we don’t know when this work will be completed, we have taken it upon ourselves to cancel our spring shows and look towards being able to do a panto in the winter! As we have used the facilities in Johnstone Town Hall for many many years, we will wait until we are able to go back there rather than finding somewhere else to accommodate us. We are thankful for Renfrewshire council for allowing us to use the premises in earlier years and excited to be back soon! We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group over the years, we cannot wait to get back to doing what we love! We hope that you will continue to support us when we do get back!

It’s 󰇳o󰇺 g󰈢󰈣󰈧󰇩ye, it’s 󰇷i󰈩p󰇰󰈠 se󰇪 󰈂󰈣u 󰇱󰇧t󰈥󰇶! The󰇧󰇹󰈦󰈥 wi󰇰󰇱 b󰇪 󰇨󰈜󰈝k!

BIG Sponsored Walking Challenge Take a positive step into 2022 and do something incredible. The BIG Sponsored Walking Challenge will get the New Year off on a positive foot. Your place your pace! Walk 2022 kilometres (1256 miles) during the year 2022 and raise £2022 leaving behind the challenges of 2021. By getting involved you will support families impacted by Huntington’s disease (HD). On average you have to walk 38 KM (24 miles) per week, which equates to 5.4KM (3.5 miles ) approximately 10,000 steps per day. You can set a daily target of between 8,000 and 10,000 steps, and increase your distance over the weeks and months. You can do more during the weekend and over your holidays. Seek out those rambles, treks and trails and find places you have never been before, or virtually walk the distance from Land’s end to John O’Groats 970KM (603miles) and you are half way to reaching your goal. Getting involved will improve your cardiovascular fitness, physical & mental wellbeing, reduce stress and burn calories, whilst achieving something amazing, supporting adults and children impacted by Huntington’s disease (HD). You can register by clicking on the Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/.../the-big-sponsored... Once you sign up, we will give you a call and send you everything you need to get started with your walking and fundraising. Good Luck!

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 15:43:50

schools & Sports Duchal Nursery Taking that big step starting nursery school can be challenging for some children, which makes the decision on which pre school to choose for their child difficult for parents. Duchal, the only specialist nursery in the area, offers a small caring environment to ensure the children flourish during their time before primary school. Now open 8am – 6pm daily during term time and offering free funded places for 3 – 5yr olds, Duchal Nursery is a forward thinking nursery which really does give children the best start in life. We are now accepting applications for free funded places for August 2022, please get in touch to request an application form by emailing: info@duchal.com Despite not being able to invite friends and family to watch our nativity at the end of term that didn’t deter the enthusiasm and excitement as we performed to the camera instead, for our families to watch at home. The build up to the festive period was a wonderful time filled with Christmas crafts with plenty of glitter, an abundance of Christmas songs and anticipation for the big day. We have spent as much time as possible getting creative with our new mud kitchen with some tremendous imaginative play in our outdoor classroom and we’ve made the most of our new seating area whatever the weather using our retractable awning to protect us from the elements. We are now looking forward to the year ahead with exciting topics chosen by our children to learn new things. We will be finding out more about farms, plants & flowers and transport which are sure to create some interesting activities.

St Columba’s Reflecting on this past year at St Columba’s and the ongoing challenges of living and working with Covid-19, it is the strength and closeness of our community that has helped us all to cope so well and keep on going. St Columba’s School is a broad community of pupils, teaching and nonteaching staff, parents, grandparents, guardians and former staff and pupils. It is now almost two years since we have been able to gather in groups, but in the meantime work has been taking place to maintain an important sense of belonging. Building a community relies on establishing positive relationships and it has been a real pleasure to see children once again taking part in activities where they can develop new friendships in a safe environment. Children in Junior 6 and Transitus embraced these opportunities during their recent residential trips to Ardroy. St Columba’s is a school community within a village community and links with our local area are extremely important to us. This term saw a new connection with the Kilmacolm Bowling Club where Junior 6 pupils gained new skills, not only in bowling, but also in talking to the club members who gave up their time to teach our pupils. This term has also seen the return of the Pipe Band; we were proud to support the Port Glasgow Remembrance Parade once again and our Pipe Major and Lead Drummer enjoyed visiting Kilmacolm Primary School to talk to children in the nursery and support their St Andrew’s Day festivities. With compassion as one of our school values, our charity work often focuses on local charities. Our Amnesty Club has led a collection of warm clothes for the Glasgow-based charity, Refuweegee and both Senior and Junior School have organised collections for local foodbanks. As always, we have found it hard to condense all our news into a short article! Please visit us on social media for more from St Columba’s…! @stcolumbasschool (FB & Insta) & @StColSchool (Twitter)

To find out more about us please visit our website www.duchal.com and keep up to date with all the latest news on Facebook,however the best way to discover what we can offer your child is to come for a visit and see for yourself. Please get in touch to arrange a visit – either email: info@duchal. com or call 01505 874358.

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07/01/2022 10:27:49

Bridge of Weir Primary Acts of Kindness Bridge of Weir Primary Parent Teacher Council had the idea of creating an ‘Acts of Kindness’ Advent Calendar for the month of December. The Pupil Council all met and came up with ideas of what to do. From litter picking, to complimenting a friend, to making cards, to telling jokes, children, parents and teachers took part in acts of kindness each day.

Spokes Bike Shop Opens in Bridge of Weir A great new addition to the village for everyone to use is the bike shop spokes, who service and repair all makes and models of bicycles. After launching in 2020 as a mobile service they took the plunge to open a shop and widen their offering from service and repair, now with a range of cycling parts & accessories, cycle clothing, as well as bike maintenance products, they’ll help keep your bike running smoothly. They also now employ a number of local staff, as well as local young bike fanatics at the weekends and will continue to pass on their knowledge by running bicycle maintenance classes for the public in the new year. One of the highlights was collecting pet food and treats for animals in need. Elizabeth Lindsay from the SSPCA came to collect the donations and they were so grateful for the lovely items handed in. The Renfrewshire Toy Bank also benefitted from the generous donations given there. We hope this spirit of kindness helped us throughout the season of goodwill and will continue to help as ‘always be kind’ when things are uncertain and tough.

The mobile business will get back up and running again, but for the time being for those who can’t make it in with their bikes they will be offering a pick-up and drop-off service for a small fee. You can also book your bike in online and get status messages on your bike while it’s in the workshop. West of Scotland distributor for Hikobike e-bikes and offers a number of cycle to work buying schemes. So pop in and meet the team.

Thank you to everyone who took part and for all your kindness. I am Me We thoroughly enjoyed a visit from I am Me to talk to us. We loved their message that It’s Ok to be Different (this is one of our school values) and also that others can help us and we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. We also learned about Dyslexia which was really helpful to gain a better understanding of how pupils learn. It was so important to remember we all have skills to be proud of which are not necessarily the same as everyone else. Book Recommendation This month’s book recommendation comes from Max Hesse in P4a. He recommends the Beast Quest books by Adam Blade. He likes the books because they have lots of adventure and you never know what is going to happen next. He particularly likes Arcta the Mountain Giant.

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:27:51

Ranfurly Castle golf club The competitive golf season is now over, but there are still a lot of ladies out enjoying sociable games, when the weather allows. The first Ladies Dinner since 2019 was held in the club on Wednesday 27th October in the newly refurbished Clubhouse. 44 ladies braved the dreadful weather to come and enjoy a very pleasant evening. A lot of work went into the preparation to ensure the safety of everyone in these difficult times and judging by the volume of chatter, everyone had a very good night. Captain Gillian Donaghy welcomed everyone and presented the Fun Competition prizes for the year.

Langbank Primary School Book Week Scotland 2022 During Book Week the children engaged in lots of fun activities to celebrate reading and literature including our very own book festival, a school book swap and a visit from a local author and illustrator from Wee Stoorie Press. The Literacy Committee were fantastic in helping to bring their ideas to life and have begun gathering the feedback from pupils of what they would like to happen in future Literacy events. Christmas Preparation

Greenlees team coordinator, Anne Judge, informed us that the Club would once again be playing in Division One next year after a very successful season in Division Two. Mrs Nancy MacGadie was thanked for her dedication to the team over 7 decades and wished a Happy Retirement! Wednesday 8th December saw 27 of our lady members playing in the 9 hole Christmas Cracker. The weather was dry, with no wind and a little sunshine, a pleasant surprise. A further 12 ladies joined in the fun at lunch where Christmas hats and jumpers were on display. The winning team were Fiona Aitken, Anne Robinson and Mary Hardie with a score of 24 stableford points and runners up were Sheila Biggart, Helen Abram and Alison Templeton with 23 points.

The Ladies AGM will be held in the Club on Saturday 8th January 2022 restrictions permitting - at 11am and all members are welcome. We wish everyone a Good New Year.

The children changed the use of their Discovery Den to become Santa’s Workshop. We hope that Santa will appreciated all the Langbank Elves creating, sorting and organising gifts and parcels for Santa’s sleigh.

March 2022 Deadline: 9th February 2022 send your news to info@advertizer.co.uk

local community, local business, local life ......... 30-35 SCHOOLS-SPORTS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 32

07/01/2022 10:27:56

Ladies Section Old Ranfurly golf club On Saturday 4th December the Ranfurly Ladies held their annual Santa Swing Competition. This is a Stableford competition and is meant to be more fun than serious golf. Twenty four ladies in total took to the field in what proved to be a very cold wet day. This did not deter the ladies from wearing the requisite Christmas jumper, hat, decorations or indeed for some very enthusiastic ladies full Santa or Elf costume. Every lady taking part was required to bring a child’s Christmas present to be donated to this years Renfrewshire toy appeal. This seeks to ensure every child no matter their circumstances has a gift this Christmas. All ladies were very generous resulting in many donations Delighted winner Lana Wilson to the appeal. Runner up Kellie Stirling On the course we were treated to home made hot mulled wine, hot chocolate, shortbread, and Christmas pies courtesy of our out going captain Suzanne Smith and new captain Fiona McPhee. After our game all enjoyed a much appreciated tasty lunch of soup, sandwiches, mince pies and coffee. All provided by our excellent caterers S t e w a r t Catering. The winners on the day were Lana Wilson who had a score of 32 points with runner Relaxing in the Club House up Keillie Stirling with 29 points. Well done both!! We also raised £339 for St Vincent’s Hospice. A real fun day for all and I’m sure an excellent start to all further Christmas celebrations!!

Alison Thompson &Yvonne McPhee

Looking forward to a New Year of great golfing!!!

e: info@advertizer.co.uk | www.advertizer.co.uk | 30-35 SCHOOLS-SPORTS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 33

January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:28:01

Howwood Curling Club

Kilmacolm Golf Club

Come & Try on Wednesday 9th March at 6pm

Thank you all for your support for this year’s Club Charity – Beatson Cancer Charity. We raised a huge £5,606.29 through our members d o n at i o n s , whether it be a penalty for finding your ball in the charity bunker, or supporting our events throughout the year. Pa r t i c u l a r mention goes to Lynda Bradley who has been busy knitting fantastic head covers and accessories which have been sold in aid of this amazing cause raising over £1,000. Maisie McCormick, Community Fundraising Manager of Beatson Cancer Charity praised the members of Kilmacolm Golf Club for their support which will be greatly appreciated by so many people.

Howwood Curling Club are always looking for new members to join our friendly curling club which meets at Greenacres, near Howwood. It’s a great way to keep fit and socialise with people in a friendly atmosphere with club members coming from Renfrewshire, Glasgow and North Ayrshire. We are now looking for new players to play for the 2022/23 season. We have organised this Come & Try session and anyone interested, whatever your age or ability is welcome to come along and try out curling, no experience necessary. We provide qualified coaches to give you the tuition you need. You will also meet with our club members and get to play. We will invite you to our closing bonspiel for the 2021/22 season on the 6th April if you continue to be interested. All the equipment you need will be provided. The cost on the night for ice is £7. Please contact Lachie Carmichael if you wish to attend. E: lachiedcarmichael@ hotmail.com T: 01294 823643

Strathgryffe Junior Teams In League Action Tennis players at Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash and Fitness Club have been competing in West of Scotland league matches over the past few weeks and have been having a great time playing together in their teams. The girls 9 and under team of Jazmin Ward and Cara Giffordwontheir9andundercompetition,convincingly defeating Hamilton in the final. Meanwhile, the 8 and under team performed admirably, finishing 3rd in their league. Pictured are 4 of the players in the team: Alexander Tindall, Ben MacLeod, Euan Donald and Olly MacKinnon. Strathgryffe offers year-round coaching for children and adults of all standards from complete beginner to team player. Coaching is now open for bookings with indoor and outdoor classes available. Classes are available for both members and non-members. For further details go to: https://clubspark. lta.org.uk/StrathgryffeLTC/Coaching

A Huge Thank You!

Making History! For the first time in the Club’s history we have 3 female captains within the club. As the various sections of the club have held their AGM’s and appointed their Captains for the forthcoming year we now have a female Club Captain, Ms Megan Briggs, Mrs Stella Bowie as the Captain of the Ladies Section and for the first time a female junior, Romy Erskine, leads our Junior Section. Congratulations ladies and good luck for the year ahead. Indoor Golf with Vanilla Square With the onset of winter golfers are often known to hang up their clubs for a few months to avoid the worst of the weather, but not at Kilmacolm. With the fantastic indoor studio, with 2 bays, accessing courses around the world in sunny conditions, our members can keep playing and practising inside! Perfect for a social few holes with friends over a meal and drink, a quick practice or lessons from our Professionals there are no excuses not to keep playing this winter!

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07/01/2022 10:28:04

The Practice Of Qi Gong

Regular Meet Classes

Beginners class starting Tuesday 1st February 2022 at 2pm in Kilmacolm Community Centre

Reebok Step Class

The Practice Of Qi Gong (pronounced Chi Kung) Qi Gong is a holistic practice which works our physical body and our connection to the world beyond. Qi is translated as energy and life force, and Gong is the act of cultivating and working with this energy, using a combination of postures, movement, breathing, sound and meditation. Based on the Five Elements principles, Qi Gong benefits not only the physical and mental aspects of ourselves, but also strengthens our connection to the world beyond and opens up a realm of possibilities. When the body is not aligned, The inner power will not come. When you are not tranquil within, Your mind will not be well ordered. Align your body, assist the inner power, Then it will gradually come on its own. — Neiye

What do I need? Comfortable clothing - loose-fitting clothes, best in layers as the body warms up quickly. We practice in bare feet or you could wear thick socks. Water is recommended. Fees: special introductory rate £20 for 4 classes. Private classes also available using Zoom. Email/ text/call to discuss. Contact: marylaidlaw38@ gmail.com or 07971 277870 for a place or to discuss further.

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Freelands Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir (Opposite Amaretto) Tuesday: 6.45pm Miss the Original Reebok Step Class? Then come along for fun, fabulous music, full body workout, feel fantastic! Limited spaces available. Mo on 07505 126 416

Jennifer Sloan Physiotherapy Led Pilates

Kilmacolm Community Centre Wednesdays: 6.15pm - 7.15pm 7.30pm - 8.30pm Thursdays: 9.30am - 10.30am Jennifer on 07731 303 709 jennifer-mcghee@hotmail.co.uk

Clyde Physiotherapy Pilates classes

St Machars church hall, Bridge of Weir Monday: 9.30am/ 10.40am/ 7pm Booking essential. Zoom option also available. Yvonne on 07786 224 367 yvonne@clydephysiotherapy.co.uk

Zumba

Freelands Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir (Opposite Amaretto) Monday: 10am Come along, have fun to fantastic music and feel FAB. All fitness levels welcome. Mo on 07505 126 416

ENERGISE WITH LAURA!

Thrive, Castle Terrace, Bridge of Weir DDP Yoga Classes for improving strength, flexibility and balance. Wednesday: 10am - 11am Mum & baby class 11.15am -12.15pm Beginner friendly class Thursday: 7pm - 8pm Beginner friendly class 1-1 slots also available energisewithlaura@gmail.com www.energisewithlaura.com

The Practice Of Qi Gong

Kilmacolm Community Centre BEGINNERS CLASS STARTING Tuesday 1st February 2022 at 2pm Comfortable loose fitting clothes, bare feet or thick socks. Water is recommended. Fees: special introductory rate £20 for 4 classes. Private classes also available using Zoom. Email/ text/call to discuss. Mary on 07971 277 870 marylaidlaw38@gmail.com

Chair Yoga

Kilmacolm (KNCC) Monday: 11am All the benefits of a yoga class including breath work, movement and relaxation but seated and working within your own abilities in a small group. Fiona on 07824 344 158 glenmoss_soap@hotmail.com Yoga with Fi yoga_with_fi

Move it or Lose it! Classes

Bridge of Weir, Houston, Kilbarchan, Kilmacolm, Greenock & Gourock What’s your New Year’s Resolution? To get fitter? Have fun? Make new friends? Come and join us! Easy to follow exercises for older adults which can be done seated or standing. With music to spark memories! First class is free for new members. Booking Essential! Fiona on 07811 766 672 www.moveitorloseit.co.uk moveitorloseitwithfiona Please note: Many of the classes which usually feature in this section have been unable to resume for the time being. Check out previous Advertizers or our website for various class details and contact information. www.advertizer.co.uk

e: info@advertizer.co.uk | www.advertizer.co.uk | 30-35 SCHOOLS-SPORTS 321 JAN-FEB 2022.indd 35

January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:28:14

out & about #YouDecide campaign attracts more than 2,800 ideas for projects in Renfrewshire Renfrewshire’s brand-new community empowerment campaign #YouDecide has attracted more than 2,800 ideas for potential upgrades to be made in the area. With £1.2million made available for infrastructure projects, communities have been putting forward their suggestions, such as new walking and cycling routes, drainage fixes and outdoor seating, as part of the Council’s drive to use local knowledge to improve its neighbourhoods. In-person roadshows have been held in every town and village in Renfrewshire, visits have taken place with community groups, local partnerships and community councils, as well as online, social media and radio promotion to ensure that as many people as possible had the chance to submit ideas. Council officers are now carrying out feasibility studies on each idea to identify if they are possible and the ones which are will be put forward to a public vote in early 2022 where local people will choose their favourites. Councillor Michelle Campbell, Depute Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response to the campaign with over 2,800 ideas and I know the team are excited to see what has been suggested for each area of Renfrewshire. “By empowering communities to submit exactly what they need in their area and then allowing them to choose which projects are taken forward, this will ensure that the upgrades made are exactly what is needed for residents in that community. “I’m looking forward to seeing the shortlist of projects and would encourage everyone to take part in the voting process when it begins early next year.” The Council will carry out the work on the successful ideas by the close of the project in 2023. Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “This is yet another example of the Council working together with the community to make where we live a better place and it’s fantastic to see such a huge response to the campaign. “There’s no substitute for local knowledge and I can’t wait to see what everyone has come up with when the voting takes place next year.” For more information on the project, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ YouDecide.

Snowman Treasure Hunt Explore the woodland trail and search for the hidden wooden snowmen on RSPB Lochwinnoch’s wintry treasure hunt during January! 10th to 31st January 2022 - 10am - 4pm RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF £3 plus normal entry fees for non-members Frosty and his friends are hiding on the woodland trail this January. How many can you find? Visit the reserve and collect your very own snowman identification sheet and activity bag from our visitor centre. Can you find them all to claim your reward? This is a self-led activity; there is no need to book.

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Kilmacolm Horticultural Society wish all gardeners and lovers of gardens a very Happy New Year. The traditional features of the Society will go ahead in 2022 whenever possible within the confines of the regulations in place. The January winter lecture is due to take place on Wednesday 19th January in the Community Centre, Kilmacolm at 7pm. Douglas Boatman, directors of Scotplants Nursery, Ayrshire, is coming along, his talk on ‘ Well Behaved Plants - riotous colour with controlled growth’ will be of interest to members and visitors too - all are welcome. Come the Spring - we hope to hold the Spring Bulb Competition, also a Plant Sale with a sociable coffee morning. Plans to hold a Bring and Buy Sale with all proceeds in aid of Ardgowan Hospice have been delayed for a year, but this year could be the time that this exciting event will finally succeed. Watch this space. For more details of all events, please visit our website at www.kilmacolmhorticultural. com

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06/01/2022 15:54:15

5 ways you can help wildlife this winter The RSPCA shares its top tips on how to care for the creatures that visit your garden during winter.

1 - Let your garden go wild Piles of leaves or brushwood can make the perfect nest in which animals can hide, rest and hibernate. Compost heaps will become a welcome habitat for toads, and even grass snakes and slow-worms.

2 - Break the ice in garden ponds Toxic gases can build up in the water of a frozen pond, which may kill any fish or frogs that are hibernating at the bottom. Make a hole in the ice by placing a pan of hot water on the surface, never use force or tip boiling water onto the pond, as this can harm or even kill any fish that live in it.

3 - Feed the birds Provide a range of seeds, fresh unsalted peanuts and table scraps (cheese and fruits such as apples and pears.) Garden birds also love dried mealworms or waxworms.

4 - Provide fresh water Clean water and food will encourage visiting hedgehogs to return regularly to your garden. Minced meat, fresh liver, tinned dog food (not fish based), or even scrambled eggs appeal to these prickly creatures. Hedgehogs like milk, but it may cause severe diarrhoea in youngsters.

5 - Attract garden visitors Foxes: Put out cheese, boiled potatoes, chicken carcasses, bread and fat scraps at dusk. Squirrels: They don’t hibernate, instead they cache food during autumn to eat when food is scarce. Offer them nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts and almonds, plus some chopped apple, beans, carrots or spinach. Badgers: Have a tough time finding food when the ground is frozen. Provide them with lightly cooked meats, cheese, peanuts and fruit. Do not leave out large quantities of food each evening to avoid your guests becoming dependent on handouts. It’s not advisable to provide food if it encourages wildlife to cross a busy road. www.discoverwildlife.com/how-to/wildlife-gardening/5-ways-you-canhelp-wildlife-this-winter/

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 15:54:19

Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society

Kilbarchan & District Beekeepers Association

Readers will notice welcome signs of Spring as early flowering bulbs send up tentative shoots. Clear away wet leaves so the buds can develop healthily and avoid rotting - then push the leaves under shrubs to mulch and leave for the worms to pull under. If February serves up wintry weather, as so often happens, the bulbs will just retract into the soil until better weather returns. Warm weather in late December and early January cheered us all, especially the birds who normally don’t burst into song at this time. Don’t forget to check the feeders regularly and keep them clean. Remember birds waste energy as they fly around looking for peanuts, mealworms, seeds and sultanas so really need reliable food sources now, as well as fresh water. Break the ice on your water containers if it’s been very frosty so they can have a drink.

The winter solstice, the one date in the calendar we can all really look forward to is behind us. That doesn’t mean there won’t be worse weather to challenge both bees and beekeepers. But the turn of the year means lengthening days and the promise of spring. This is the month when the prospects for the new beekeeping year don’t seem so distant. In the hive the Queen will start to lay eggs, increasing brood production from a barely noticeable clutch of eggs in February to hundreds by the beginning of March, temperatures dependant.

January was forecast to be changeable with snow early in the month and shorter colder periods towards the end with more snow likely on the northern hills. February is expected to have a settled start which will mean frosty nights and foggy mornings. After a cold spell, it is much easier to lift weeds when they have been pushed up and out of the ground by heavy frosts. Next month is too far away to predict but, as we know, March can have erratic weather patterns too! At the December AGM we agreed the Gardening Club would now meet over the more temperate months, starting in March and through to Autumn. Weather conditions tend to be balmier, daylight hours longer and road conditions less hazardous for members, speakers and everyone interested in coming along! Details of the first meeting in March will appear here and on Facebook. Members will also receive details in their Newsletters via letter or e-mail, as at present.

Bridge of Weir Hill Walkers Recent trips have included our weekend in Oban to celebrate BoW’s 36th anniversary. This included two/three days walking and two nights partying as usual. The walks included Sutherland’s Grove north of Barcaldine and a Sunday exploration of the Isle of Eriska.

Seasoned beekeepers will council vigilance despite the lack of activity in the hives. Colonies will have consumed much of their winter stores and may need more food to weather a possible long cold spring. On clear, fine days in early January, a quick look to check or add sugar in the form of fondant or a damp sugar bag is sometimes necessary. It’s also the last opportunity to give the bees a treatment against the varroa mite, the nasty little pest that is now endemic among bees and can seriously threaten their wellbeing and survival. An oxalic acid treatment is applied that kills the mite but doesn’t harm the bees and mid-winter is an ideal time to take action. After any gales or high winds, we will check all is well in the apiaries and that the hives are weighted down and straps are secure. Then we can make the most of the quieter months to catch up on reading, cleaning equipment and even studying for beekeeping courses and qualifications. There might also be some lovely candles produced thanks to the bees wax making to burn on dark January nights, or other products of the hive like Lip balm or mead, as its not only about the honey. We have been unable to hold our in-person meetings this year with the Steeple Halls in Kilbarchan the usual venue. Hopefully, 2022 will see a return to our face-to-face gatherings and though for the time being Zoom is our on line meeting place monthly and there has been no lack of discussion and advice. This included a fascinating talk on the benefits of propolis, the sticky substance produced by the bees to seal up gaps in hives among other uses. Now its potential for medical science and health is being researched with exciting results. It made us all think again about complaining of its messy presence on all parts of the hive. And it’s another discovery that continues to make beekeeping so fascinating and rewarding. If you are interested in beekeeping for yourself, please contact our secretary via helenajbee@gmail.com who will provide more details about our association and how to join. We have a Facebook page which is reserved for members and beekeeping friends, but you can follow us on Twitter @KilbarchanBees or via Instagram ‘Kilbarchanbeekeepers’

There were a couple of meals In the woods, Sutherland’s Grove out, a visit to the oldest pub in Oban, a pop-up disco and a music quiz, over the weekend. More recently, the Sunday group ventured out on the Kilpatrick Hills to enjoy sun, snow and ice on the first real day of winter. Our festive events include a visit to the Oran Mor panto and a bus trip for a walk and Christmas lunch in Arrochar. More of them later. Come and join us! We are on facebook.

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06/01/2022 15:54:21

Paisley Colour Photographic Club Paisley Colour Photographic Club is well into the swing of its series of internal competitions with the ever popular first in the series of three bi-monthly and Bowie nature competitions having taken place by Zoom on 28th October and 11th November, respectively. External judges were Brian Cathie for the bi-monthly and Neil MccGregor for the Bowie. The quality of images submitted to both competitions by our photographers was notably high. In the advanced section, first place in the bi monthly competition was awarded to Eddie Middleton’s Sunset Reflections Eigg, Red Squirrel by Mark Harris was second, Charles Hamilton’s Jimmy Blair The Barras was third, my Need for Speed was fourth and Norma MacDowall’s Simplicity was fifth. In the intermediate section Ollie Desforges secured first and fourth places for his St Enoch and Child and Fairy Pools, Fiona McFetridge was second for her Heron on The River Gryffe and 4th for her Red Damselfly, Hebscape by Douglas Forest was third. Best introductory image went to Clutch Control by Andrew Kerr. In the Bowie nature competition, members are required to submit images in sets of two (one zoological and the other botanical). Top placed set was by Alison Smart for her Quiver Trees Early Morning and Sleepy Cheetah Post Feed,Wild Garlic and Common Blue by Mike Cruise were second with him also securing third place for his Cuckoo Displaying and Water Mint, with fifth place going to Duncan Macdonald for his Sundew Trapping Insect and Assassin Bug. Best non advanced set was by Fiona McFetridge comprising Red Campion and Four Spotted Chaser.

March 2022 Deadline: 9th February 2022 send your news to info@advertizer.co.uk

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January / February 2022

06/01/2022 15:54:28

sales & wants www.advertizer.co.uk/this-months-sales-wants

ITEMS FOR SALE CLOTHES & SHOES •Emu

• Trespass Boys outdoor

jacket, waterproof/ windproof, black, brand new, never worn, labels attached. Age 7-8 (122-128 cm). Ski jacket style. £10. Pics available. Tel: 07730 541977.

Women’s Sheepskin Waterproof boots Dark Brown fur lined - size 4, but very narrow ﬁt may ﬁt size 3 - never been able to • Girl Guides jacket wear. Still boxed. £40. (28”/71cm) and polo Tel: 07504 446964 . shirt (size 30”/76cm), • C h i l d r e n ’s M & S great condition. Age insulated salopettes, 10-12. £20 for both. hardly worn. Blue Tel: 07730 541977. 7-8 years. £10. Pic • B ro w n i e s T- s h i r t available. Tel: 07730 (30”/76cm) and 541977. trousers (24”/60cm). • Boys black M&S Good condition. £10 pleat front trousers, for both. Tel: 07730 non-iron, adjustable 541977. waist, size for 12 years • Boys Brigade Junior (height 152cm/5 ft). section sweatshirts New, can’t return. £5. £6 each (32”, 30” & Tel: 07730 541977. 28”), polo shirts £4 • Boys Foot Joy golf each (28” & 26”) and shoes, Junior GJ. caps with hat badges Size UK 4/EU 36.5 & surrounds. £5 each (hardly worn). £20. (sizes 2 & 3). All good Tel: 07730 541977. condition. Tel: 07730 541977.

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.

• ‘Centigrade’ (QVC)

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN

Quilted coat with faux • Two louvre doors; 6’ fur trimmed hood, long x 18” wide & 5’ mink colour. Size 6” long x 21” wide. 12/14 - worn once. Tel: 01505 873140. Washable, Polyester. (Kilmacolm) £28. Tel: 07504 • Solid oak extending 446964. dining table & 8 • Rockport Prowalker, matching chairs walking shoe, black, (from Annie Mo). size 12 UK, Gents, Dimensions 100cm never been worn, wide / 210cm and paid £50, sell for £20. 260cm (extended) Tel: 01505 612722 long. Excellent (Houston) condition. Genuine • S TA R b y J u l i e n reason for sale. £750. MacDonald black Tel: 07882 392063. and white print chiffon • Dining room gateleg dress, size 12. Never table and 4 matching been worn, tag still chairs. £50. Tel: attached, bought for 01505 331019. £45, sell £20. Photos • Nest of tables (2) available. Tel: 07890 IKEA VITTSJO - good 564528. condition. £20. Tel/ • Ladies Jimmy CHOO text: 07952 164554. Black Patent Heel • One mirror; 5’ - 0” long Shoes ‘Lockett’. With x 17” wide. Tel: 01505 all original box, labels, 873140 (Kilmacolm) proof etc. Special occasion wear, as new. £95. Tel: 07909 115747.

Find a list of local deﬁbrillator sites online: www.advertizer.co.uk/ local-deﬁbrillator-sites/

OTHER ITEMS • Lumie Vitamin L slim

WANTED ITEMS

portable SAD lamp • Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s CASH Paid. for light therapy. New, Tel: 01505 873958 or unwanted gift. Cost 07710 777571. new £90, sell £50. Tel: • Cash paid for Vinyl 07887 784162. Records and Music • The Crown - Season CDs (a few or a lot). One. Brand new Tel: 01505 329638 or sealed DVD. £5. 07765 115347. Tel: 07890 564528.

TECHNICAL & GAMES • ThiEYE WiFI Dash

Cam Safeel Zero + 32 GBMicro SD Card Included. £25. Tel: 07762 064259 • Kodak EasyShare

• Local lily grower

requires the use of a greenhouse/ polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

digital camera - Model 1073 IS. Older model but hardly used and • Ladder - 26 feet (two still in working order. sections). Tel: 07890 £15. Tel/text: 07952 564528. 164554.

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PROPERTY WANTED

House/BUNGALOW Wanted Detached/older semi with sunny garden preferred PRIVATE CASH BUYER

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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 Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising. • All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the Standards. • 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 appears. • 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.

DEADLINE March 2022 issue: 9th February 2022

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.

CONTENT OF THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER

• Kilmacolm/Quarriers

area registered childminders. P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 01505 873839. • Houston registered childminders. For an informal chat to ﬁnd your best childcare, call Helen Smith on 07952 390282

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January / February 2022

07/01/2022 10:51:05

ads directory by Category Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 37 Affluent Financial . . . . . . . . . 11 Duchal Nursery School . . . . . . 23 Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 CLA Accountancy . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Cleaning & PowerWash CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 22 Architectural Services DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 28 Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 39 CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 22 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 35 Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 33 I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 13 Lady Grafters Garden . . . . . . . 37 Automotive Services Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19 R Williams Tree Services . . . 39 Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 21 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bathrooms Platinum Cleaning Services . . 11 West of Scotland Landscape . . 37 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 8

Accountants & Financial Childcare

Bedrooms

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 29

Blacksmith & Metalwork

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 7

Building Services

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 B Hughes Builders . . . . . . . . 10 Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 27 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 16 I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 13 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 7 JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 22 KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 21 Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 35 M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 6 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 23 SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 14 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 28 Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 5

Cycle Repair

Gas & Heating Services

Spokes Bikes Ltd . . . . . . . . . . 31 C Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Driveways GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 10 Electricians Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 6 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Glazier MAS Electrical & Security . . 14 1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 23 Russell Milne Electrician . . 5

Fencing

Hairdressers & Barbers

Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 21 McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 7 Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 10

Firewood & Logs

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 37 M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 22 Pest Control Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 10 RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 18 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Renfrewshire Handyman . . . . . . 4 Photographers Mark Swaroop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Home Interiors

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 29 Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 19 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 23 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 7 Home Security Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 35 Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 18 Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Plumbers C Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Joiners Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 10 I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 10 James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 7 JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 22 Property, Sales & Let Cochran Dickie . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 6 Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 14 Kingsley Wood & Co . . . . . . . . . 13 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 28

Removals

Solicitors

Kingsley Wood & Co . . . . . . . . . 13

Special Occasions

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Stoves

Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 23

Taxis

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Tiling

Gordon James Ceramic . . . . . . . 14

Tree Surgeon

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 39 LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 R Williams Tree Services . . . 39 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37

TV & Satellite

Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 At@ease Removals . . . . . . . . . . 9 Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 10 Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 8 Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 29 Retail Upholstery Services JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 22 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,25 Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 35 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 28 InverEco Limited . . . . . . . . . . 7 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 33

Health, Beauty & Fitness Kitchens

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 23 Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Erskine Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Funeral Services LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Nuad Boran MassageTherapy .. 18 John Roach Funeral . . . . . . . . . 33 The 1 to 1 Diet with Joan . . 12 Garage Doors & Gates Tranquil Couples Spa . . . . . . . 11 Garolla Holdings Limited . . . 4 Home Hardware Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15,25

Plasterers

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 35 SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 14 Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 5

Locksmiths

Roofing

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Eckory Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 4 Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 27 Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 19 Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 16 Painters & Decorators Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19 Care Services & Homes A Gallagher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Home Instead Senior Care . . . 22 Garden Service & Design Home Improvements 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 37 3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 37 Andrew Hay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 13 KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 21 James Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Window Cleaners

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 28 Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 33 Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19 Matthews Cleaning Services .. 21

Window, Consv & Repair

1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 23

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