329 October 2022 - Gryffe Advertizer

Next Deadline

#330 NovemBER 2022: Wednesday

12th October

This Month

From our office window we are starting to see the lovely autumnal colours making their appearance.

There are some brilliant Halloween events happening locally that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

This Month’s Cover

Stoneymollan Stag 3 by © Mark Harris, Paisley Colour Photography Club

Advertising in this publication

Upcoming deadlines:

#331 dECEMBER: 9th nOVEMber

#332 January 2023: 7th December

Contact us: 01505 613 340 info@advertizer.co.uk www.advertizer.co.uk GryffeAds GryffeAds GryffeAdvertizer

1st floor, Neva Place Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN

Office Hours:

Tues - Thurs 9am - 4pm Friday 9am - 1pm

The highly popular scarecrow trail in Kilmacolm hopes to have another good turnout. The theme this year is children’s book characters. It is set to start from the 28th to the 31st October.

If you’d like to be part of this event, please email: eliseduncan@st-columbas.org Roadworks in Houston will have started along Barrochan Road by the time you are reading this and are set to last approximately 12 weeks from Tuesday 20th September.

Councillor David McGonigle has explained the three phases and the diversion routes of these works in his article on page 22.

Spring Forward ~ Fall Back!

A reminder that clocks go back on Sunday 30th October.

It all great local news in your local Advertizer!

View previous issues online: www.advertizer.co.uk/online-issue/

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.

• All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. © The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd 2022

• Printed in Glasgow and delivered by a local team.

• McAllister Litho Glasgow are committed to minimising their impact on the environment caused by their use of natural resources and the waste and pollution they create. www.mlg.co.uk/environment/

Next

#330 November:

October

Readers are reminded that when• purchasing items or services advertised in the Publication that the Publisher cannot be held in any way responsible for the quality or correctness of the items or services included in the Advertisement.

Editorial in this publication

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.

CONTENTOFTHEGRYFFEADVERTIZER CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT CONSENT FROM PUBLISHER

The Gryffe Advertizer is published by © The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd 2022

Paisley Abbey Lunch Hour Concerts

07

Textile Workshops 08

Gryffe Valley Rotary 10

Local History 12

Coming Events 14-17

Classic Cars At Castle Semple 15

Village News 18-27

Councillor Details 18

Defibrillator sites 20

Kilbarchan Habbies Art Exhibition 24

Schools & Sports 28-33

Bookshop Book Review 34

Outdoors 35-39

This month’s WALK - Pollock Country Park 36

Rhododendron Rage 39

Sales & wants 40

Classified ads 41

Business directory 42

Painting & Photography Exhibition by Cohen - Art

Since moving to Renfrewshire 2 years ago, Michelle Cohen has been captivated by village and country life. Her recent artwork has been influenced by the abundance of historical buildings in Houston and the wonderful surrounding landscape. Lockdown was a fantastic time to walk around exploring the area capturing the quiet life on camera. The exhibition will feature photographic prints, original architectural paintings on glass and a calendar of her favourite seasonal shots of Houston.

Opening Night Thursday 3rd November, 6pm - 9pm

Running from November 3rd to 17th (Iin the main restaurant area)

Location: Fox & Hounds Houston, South Street, Houston

Fb @CohenArtGlasgow Insta @CohenArt11 e: cohen.artwork@gmail. com

LEAP - Community Fund Donation

Affluent Financial Group Community Fund Supports Lochwinnoch’s Feel Good Festival

Affluent Financial Planning, based in Bridge of Weir, has again given back to their local community, this time in supporting LEAP (Local Energy Action Plan) to help run their Lochwinnoch Feel Good Festival. The festival, which ran for one week in September, provided a programme of wellbeing related events, hosted in partnership with many community groups and local businesses. These events provided much needed opportunities to boost connectivity and mental health in a time of tremendous challenges. Activities included nature based walks, holistic therapies, life coaching workshops, recreational and creative activities.

The funding provided by Affluent helped to enable LEAP to minimise any costs to community members, making events more accessible by reducing financial barriers to entry.

Kitty Stirling, Practice Manager at Affluent said, “Once again we are pleased to be able to support such an important local community group. The community spirit which I felt at the Festival was brilliant.”

Get yo��r Library ��oo��s deli��ered to your ��ome!

Libraries Direct provide a free delivery service in Renfrewshire to:

•

anyone over 70 years of age

anyone with a disability or medical• condition which limits their ability to leave their home

pre-school or school age children• (primary and secondary)

To register for our free Home Delivery service, please contact us and our library staff will be happy to help you.

Call: 0300 300 1188 or email: libraries@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Paisley & District ��3a

Thursday October 6th from 2pm3.30pm

This new session, which concludes u3a’s Ruby Anniversary year, has retired teacher and guest speaker, Ian Valentine presenting some fascinating facts about WW2 prisoner, Rudolf Hess. Paisley Salvation Army, Paisley Corps Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND

Paisley Ab��ey Lun���� ��our ��oncerts

Throughout the year

Paisley Abbey hosts a varied programme of Lunch Hour Concerts by local musicians, singers and choral groups.

Saturday 22nd October at 12.30pm - Cortet Horn Quartet

Saturday 26thNovember at 12.30pm - Scottish Clarinet Choir

Saturday 17th December at 12.30pm - Abbey Brass – Concert of Christmas Music

Tickets costing £5 are available at the door.

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JG

Cinderella

Saturday 26th November to Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm and Matinee 2pm

Johnstone Town Hall, 25 Church Street, Johnstone PA5 8EG

Join Johnstone Phoenix for their retelling of this well known and magical story - Cinderella. The classic rags to riches tale in a pantomime suitable for all the family. We will bring sing-a-long songs, laugh out loud comedy, traditional audience participation, as well as stunning costumes and scenery. There will be plenty panto magic and a few surprises on the way...

Join us to cheer the goodies and boo the baddies. A great time is guaranteed, as we get back to the theatre and enjoy this unforgettable show!

Tickets: £15 & £12 available at www.seaty.co.uk/jptgcinders

Texti��e Autumn Sc��oo�� - Print & Stitch

Taking inspiration from the natural world, this Autumn School will explore the method of creating your own individual and unique fabrics through Collagraph Printing. (Collagraph uses plates made from low relief textures and then passed through a press.)

Monday 17th - Friday 21st October from 10am - 4pm

The Cargill Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4LE

Saturday 29th to Sunday 30th October or Saturday 12th to Sunday 13th November from 10am - 4pm on Saturday & Sunday

The Carrick Centre Main Street, Houston PA6 7HD

Call 07775 665771 for details

You will experiment making plates using wallpaper, tapes, fabrics, glue, modelling paste and carborundum which can be printed intaglio and relief. You will then look at different methods of layering, tearing and manipulating the fabrics, which you will combine using machine and hand embroidery, to create a fine art textile. I will offer guidance throughout the week to help you confidently find your own self-expression.

This workshop is suitable for all levels including beginners. If you’re looking for inspiration and new ways to direct your work, this is the ideal course. It’s full of fun and playful creativity and I will be there to support and guide you through the process.

Gryffe Camera Club - First meetings

The Club commenced the 2022/2023 session on 7th September, welcoming old and new members.

The Club was proud to announce that it was fortunate to have received a Grant from the National Lottery Community Fund Scotland.

There was a brief mention of the Programme of meetings in the new session followed by 2 presentations. The first presentation was “Postcards” showing a selection of shots taken over the Summer period, followed by “35 Years”, a chronological path of the events, trips and occasions over the life of Gryffe Camera Club, with comments and stories during the years.

At the second meeting on the 14th of September the members enjoyed a presentation recalling the Photographic Themes that were set as challenges - “Glass”, “Food” and “Flowers”. There was also a summary of all the competitions entered during the last session, showing the top images from each one. The opportunity was taken to present some of the engraved trophies to the winners.

St Vincent’s Hospice new fundraising team member

St Vincent’s Hospice is delighted to announce the appointment of Hayley Simpson as its new Individual Giving Manager. Hayley brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the new role. She developed her strategic planning and skills during her time with Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) rising to the role of Supporter Care Manager.

In 2019 she joined Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) where, as Donor Development Manager, she provided first class donor experiences by creating donor centric campaigns helping to maximise opportunities for individual supporters. CHSS’s most successful appeal was developed and led by Hayley during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Director of Fundraising and Supporter Relations, Gillian Green, said “We are delighted to welcome Hayley to the team. Her experience in the sector, combined with her ambition for growth and passion for improvement, makes her an excellent person to lead the strategy and delivery of the individual giving programme for the hospice.”

Speakers

On 7th September, member Graham Murnane a patent Attorney talked on the various product protection measures including patents valid for 20 years, trade marks, design rights, and copyright. Bob Duncanson spoke on 14th September on the construction of the Forth Road Bridge, and member Bob Ross spoke on the 21st. A Business meeting took place on 28th September. Future Speakers are a speaker from Quarriers on 5th October, another entertaining talk on Alan Watt 12th October and on 19th October Monsignor Andrew Canon McFadden will speak about his life and service as the senior Royal Navy Chaplain and Royal Chaplain to the late Queen If interested in Rotary come along and find out who we are and what we do e-mail gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com to arrange your attendance.

Musical Lunch

This is taking place on Sunday 2nd October to raise funds for 500 miles, - the charity run by Olivia Giles to provide prosthetic limbs to disabled people in Malawi and Zambia. The venue is St Columba’s School Kilmacolm one of our corporate members and thanks to them and their caterers for their help. Entertainment will be provided by both professional musicians and exceptional local talent, including Gryffe Voices. A similar event before lockdown was very enjoyable. A few tickets are still available if you are quick! Just e-mail gryffevalleyrotary@gmail. com.

Gryffe Valley Way

We are interested to hear from the first people who have walked the full length of the Gryffe Valley Way and indeed anyone who has run it (and their time).

Our next activity is to create a number of Interpretative boards along the Way including at Kilmacolm, Bridge of Weir, the Mill Lade, Crosslee village, and Craigends Estate. We are writing to each of the landowners to request permission. Anyone with knowledge of the history of these places is invited to contribute and any businesses willing to sponsor a board are invited to get in touch. Please email gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com

Volunteers Nee��ed

Do you want to have a positive impact in your local community?

Do you want to make a difference?

Then Join us Today!

Email: volunteering@svh.co.uk or call 01505 705635 for more information.

You can also check out our latest volunteering roles and download an application form on our website www.svh. co.uk/volunteer

Johnstone History Society

Our second meeting of the new session will be held on Tuesday 11th October at 7.30pm in the Masonic Hall in Collier Street. The second speaker is Anne Pitcher and her subject is “Scottish Storytelling“ this should be an interesting topic. We hope to see a good turnout of members and friends all will be made welcome.

The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. We have on sale books maps and pamphlets - all of local interest. These can also be purchased online at johnstonehistory.org and paid for via PayPal. In the Museum we now have a card machine which makes payment easier. This month we are saying farewell to two of our long serving volunteers who have decided to retire we would like to thank them for their service and wish them well for the future.

As you will realise this leaves us short of volunteers, so if you have time to spare please come into the Museum and speak to one of the staff or message us through the website.

History Spot

Finlayson Bousfield & Co., Johnstone. (1844-1898)

For over a century, five generations of the Finlayson family owned the flax mills in Johnstone. William Finlayson, born in Dunfermline in 1876, had a successful manufacturing business in Glasgow and was one of the first in Scotland to spin flax on machinery. In 1844, seeing Johnstone as an expanding new town, William, in partnership with his sons, James (18231903) and Charles (1825-1874), set up a flax spinning factory in the town.

In 1848 William’s sons, James and Charles, in partnership with a young Englishman, Charles Bousfield, founded Finlayson Bousfield & Co. and took over Barbush Cotton Mill, situated on the south bank of the Black Cart at Johnstone Bridge on the High Street as their new flax spinning mill. In the mid-1850s the company also owned Lilybank Mill, a smaller mill, situated on land behind Lilybank House in Brewery Street.

The company processed raw flax before it was spun in the spinning mill and the final process was the finishing and dyeing. In the early days, Finlayson Bousfield & Co. produced quality white and coloured threads. They sent their quality goods for display at national and international exhibitions. Probably their earliest exhibition was the London Exhibition in 1851 where the company was a awarded a prize medal for the “strength, taste and neatness in threads”. To celebrate the award and to promote sales, Finlayson Bousfield used wrapping paper for their packages showing images of their 1851 prize medal. Two fine examples of this packaging are on display in Johnstone Museum.

The company quickly prospered and expanded and by 1856 Finlayson Bousfield’s Barbush Flax Mill was described as “an extensive establishment, adjoining Johnstone Bridge, for the manufacture of spinning thread”. By the 1860s Finlayson Bousfield & Co. had become the largest industrial plant in Johnstone and had its head office at 11 St. Enoch Square in Glasgow.

The Wee Spree Festival returns with plenty of fun activities to keep the kids entertained, running from 15th - 23rd October to coincide with the mid-term break for Renfrewshire schools.

Shows announced include the return of family entertainment legends The Singing Kettle, dance parties for parents and kids, and a family ceilidh. Film screenings will keep little ones entertained and workshops on everything from animation to circus performance will interest older kids and teens.

For full programme of events visit: www.thespree.co.uk/the-wee-spree

By the 1870s James’s sons, William, Archibald and James jun., were employed in the mills and business continued to develop and expand. The firm now owned Lancefield Mill, a small mill in Clark Street, and, in 1873, built a second large flax mill on the North bank of the River Cart at Johnstone Bridge. In 1881 Finlayson Bousfield’s Johnstone flax mills were documented as having a capital of £187,003 and 1,700 employees, and were regarded as the largest flax mill in Scotland.

James and Charles had become not only successful wealthy businessmen, but also men of importance and influence in Johnstone who played a significant part in the development of the town. James had played a key role in the creation of Johnstone as a burgh in 1857.

He founded the Flax Mill Workers Co-operative Society in 1866 which served the town for almost a century and built workers’ houses in Clark Street in 1872. In his sixties James stood for parliament and served as MP for Eastwood in 1885-1866. Charles, before his death in 1874, organized the building of Lilybank Bowling Green, for the use of the company’s employees. It has stood the test of time and is still a popular bowling green in Johnstone today.

For some years the company had been exporting abroad, notably to USA and Australia, where, Richard Allen & Co. of Melbourne were sole agents for Finlayson Bousfield of Johnstone. In 1878 James’s son, Archibald, was sent to USA to explore the possibility of setting up a new mill. Finlayson’s Flax Spinning Mill in North Grafton, Massachusetts, was up and running before 1885.

After consultation in 1897 with other well-established flax mills in Renfrewshire, Ireland and USA, Finlayson Bousfield & Co. in Johnstone and Finlayson’s Flax Spinning Mill in North Grafton, USA were founder members of The Linen Thread Company (1898-1968).

Image: with kind permission of Johnstone Museum

© 2022 Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Forum

coming events IN October

events in

late September

UNTIL FRIDAY 30 TH

Teddy Bear Hunt - Self-led Activity For Families

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

Our reserve has been taken over by teddy bears can you help us to find them all?

SUNDAY 25 TH

Erskine Riverside Market

Erskine Riverside Market

Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine PA8

7AF 10am to 4pm

50:50 Proms At Langbank Church

Langbank Parish Church, Main Rd, Langbank 2.30pm

Donation tickets costing £5 will be available at the door on the day.

WEDNESDAY 28 TH

Corseford School Open Day

Corseford School, Howwood Road, Howwood

10.30am to 1.30pm

You can get in touch by email communications@capability.scot or give us a call on 01555 665 041.

Bridge of Weir Senior Citizens’ Association

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir

Everyone is welcome to all or any of our meetings which take place every second and fourth Wednesdays each month.

FRIDAY 30 TH

Practical Conservation (Sitka/Rhododendron)

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road nr Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 10.30am to 3pm

Free to attend, no booking required! Just show up on the day. It is recommended that you wear long sleeved shirts and trousers.

SATURDAY 1 ST - FRIDAY 28 TH

Halloween Scavenger Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

Cost: £3 plus normal entry fees for non-members (£3 per adult, £1.50 per child). Call 01505 842663

Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Facebook @RSPBLochwinnochNR Twitter @RSPBLochwinnoch

SATURDAY 1 ST OCT - 5 TH NOV

Bishopton Art Group

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir

Full details on page 18.

SATURDAY 1 ST

Scotland on Tour - Breabach

McKillop Hall, Main Street, Lochwinnoch 7.30pm

Further details on page 17.

SUNDAY 2 ND

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Old Kirk, High Street, Kilmacolm 3pm

Riverside Youth Band will perform. Admission: donation at door.

Houston & Killellan Kirk Communion Services

Houston & Killellan Kirk, 13A Kirk Road, Houston PA6 7HW Services: 11am, 2pm & 6.45pm

Gryffe Valley Rotary Musical Lunch

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm

Raising funds for 500 miles charity run by Olivia Giles, providing prosthetic limbs to disabled people in Malawi & Zambia. Entertainment by professional musicians & local talent, including Gryffe Voices. Tickets: gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com

SUNDAY 2 ND

Ronald McDonald House Glasgow Ladies Lunch

Glasgow Marriott Hotel

12noon - 6 pm

Tickets on sale £55pp. Tel 0141 201 1900 or email fundraising@ ronaldmcdonaldhouse.co.uk

TUESDAY 4 TH

Houston & Killellan Kirk Foodbank Donations

West Halls Main Street Houston (next to Carrick Centre)

10am to 12noon & 7pm to 8pm Every Tuesday. Donations for Renfrewshire Foodbank, Renfrew.

THURSDAY 6 TH

Outlook Team

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

2pm to 3.30pm

Keep Fit with Grace: gentle exercises followed by delicious afternoon tea with homebaking. Donations given to Local Charities.

Paisley & District u3a

Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley 2pm to 3.30pm

Retired teacher and guest speaker, Ian Valentine, presenting some fascinating facts about WW2 prisoner, Rudolf Hess.

SATURDAY 8 TH

Bridge of Weir Choral Society Coffee Morning

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

10am to 12noon

Home baking, various stalls incl a tombola, cake & candy & a raffle.

Houston & Killellan Kirk Guild Autumn Cream Tea

West Halls, Main Street, Houston (next to Carrick Centre) 10.30am Come along and catch up with friends over a cuppa. Looking forward to seeing you there!

SATURDAY 8 TH

Race Night Scouts Fundraiser

Bridge of Weir Scout Hall, Horsewood Road, Bridge of Weir PA11 3BD

7.30pm to 11.30pm £5

All funds go towards repairing the Scout Hall. Includes Buffet and a Licensed Bar. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets from Scout Hall or pay on the night.

MONDAY 10 TH

Axe Throwing @ Garnock Valley Carves

Garnock Valley Carvers, Manse Field, Glebe Road, Beith, KA15 1EZ

9am

Community activities, face painting, children’s tent, story telling, wood carving workshops, outdoors woodland crafts & loads of family games. Live music playing throughout the day. Enjoy the locally sourced produce & food stalls. www.facebook. com/events/s/axe-throwing-garnockvalley-ca/1018428628863875/

TUESDAY 11 TH

Houston & Killellan Kirk Warm Clothes Collection

West Halls, Main Street, Houston (next to Carrick Centre & Village Hall) 10am to 12noon

Seeking donations of NEW warm clothes for the homeless & vulnerable, supported by the Simon Community & the Lodging House Mission. Drop off at the halls or contact bob.ross7@gmail.com to arrange collection. Can also be dropped off on 18th & 25th.

TUESDAY 11 TH - THURSDAY 13 TH

Get on your bike in the October holidays

Various locations in Inverclyde The Inverclyde Bothy are giving parents and grandparents the opportunity to ‘Get on their bike’ free of charge. Can supply a bike if required. Get in touch via Facebook @inverclydebothy or email keith.fergus@CyclingUK.org

Our full business directory is available on page 42 .........

Please note: Please check with venue/organiser. Where we can, we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events. Event details may have changed by publication.

Cla������c�� ���� Cas������ S��m����e

Classics at Castle Semple Country Park, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch

Sunday 30th October 11am – 3pm

It’s not long now until the much-loved classic car show returns for its 10th Anniversary show. The show is purely about vehicles – staring at them, talking about them, and photographing them.

With five categories of awards this year, vehicles owners have a chance of taking home a handcrafted trophy. The awards won’t

just be about the “Best”. The show has been sponsored for many years by Graeme Skelton of Power Doors, a local Garage Doors company, and old school friend of Jane’s, who also has a passion for classic cars. He’ll be picking out the Best in show. So, look out for the bloke with the clipboard!

Donation buckets will be there to raise money for St Vincent’s Hospice, the incredible local charity, where Jane’s father passed away in January 2020, after living with cancer and eventually paraplegia for over 20 years. The hospice assists many local families who have a family member living with a life limiting illness, through day-care, support, advice and of course, full hospice care.

The show attracts up to 80 vehicles and there may be spaces still available. Do you have something classic, special or an old motorbike? If so, please email classicsatcastlesemple@gmail.com or call Jane on 0300 300 0200 on Mondays or Tuesdays.

Centre, Main

Houston 7.30pm

A visit from Fiona Bretherton of “Move It or Lose It”

talk about the movement and

For info call 07932 459994.

Photo credit: Brown Bull Photography

Farmers Markets

in October

SATURDAY 1 ST

Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm Community Centre

10am to 2pm

First Saturday of the month

/kilmacolmfarmersmarket

SATURDAY 8 TH

Paisley

The Paisley Centre

10am to 2pm

/pages/Paisley-FarmersMarket/207097172654332

SUNDAY 9 TH

Renfrew

Robertson Park

10am to 4pm

Second Sunday of the month

/RenfrewMarket

SATURDAY 15 TH

Bishopton & Dargavel

Bishopton Train Station Car Park

10am to 2pm

Third Saturday of the month

/The-Bishopton-Dargavel-FarmersMarket-109902924512969

SATURDAY 29 TH

Gourock

Gourock Train Station Car Park

10am to 2pm

Last Saturday of the month

/The-Gourock-Farmers-Market112064558070104

SAT 29 TH & SUN 30 TH

Barnhill Farm

Houston Road, Inchinnan

10am to 4pm

/BarnhillAsparagus

SUNDAY 30 TH

Erskine

Erskine Waterfront

10am to 4pm

Last Sunday of the month

/Erskine-Riverside-Market101613198665127

THURSDAY 13 TH

Sòlas bereavement Group

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm

Open to all with no pre-registration required. For more info please call Barbara Marshall: 01505 872417 or email: barbara@oochy.com

Houston & Killellan Kirk Houston Hello

Killellan Halls, 13A Kirk Road, Houston PA6 7HW 2pm to 4pm

Drop in group for people living with dementia and carers. Contact Frankie Greenwood 07817 210777 or email: familyandcommunity.houstonkirk@ gmail.com. Also on Thursday 27th.

SATURDAY 15 TH

Artie’s Singing Kettle

Halloween Singalong

Johnstone Town Hall 2pm

Adults £4 / Concession £3 (Under 2’s Free on adult’s knee) / Family of 4 £12. Guaranteed to get the family audience singing along. Favourites include Bunny Fou Fou, Ghost Hunt & Shove Yer Granny Off the Bus.

Scotland on Tour

Lochwinnoch Golf Club

Burnfoot Road 7.30pm

Pauline Vallance and Shelagh McKay Jones. Also, we have the superb Roseanne Reid the eldest daughter of The Proclaimers Craig Reid. Tickets in Now and then gifts Lochwinnoch or online www.scotlandontour.com

MONDAY 17 TH - FRIDAY 21 ST

Textile Autumn SchoolPrint & Stitch

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir 10am to 4pm

Suitable for all levels including beginners. More info on page 8. Call 07775 665771. £300.

TUESDAY 18 TH

Viano Interiors Christmas Launch Event

Viano Interiors, Main Street, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NR

10am to 8pm

Featuring our stunning Christmas collection - pop along for a peak with a lucky dip discount of up to 30%!

We look forward to seeing you all there!

WEDNESDAY 19 TH

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society Talk

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7pm

Douglas Boatman, the managing director of Scotplants in Beith will present his talk on ‘ Well Behaved Plants giving riotous colour with controlled growth’. Tea/coffee served. Everyone welcome.

THURSDAY 20 TH

Outlook Team

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm to 3.30pm

Bird Sanctuary / Polar BearsColin Houston presentation with photographs of holiday in Jan Mayen Isle, Svalbard, Oslo and Canadian Arctic. Followed by afternoon tea with homebaking. Donations given to Local Charities.

FRIDAY 21 ST

The Three Sisters Theatre Company Halloween Showcase

Rocknrollas, 5 Wellmeadow St, Paisley PA1 2EF 7.30pm

Full details on page 17.

FRIDAY 21 ST - SATURDAY 22 ND

Kilbarchan Habbies’ Art Exhibition

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 10am to 4pm

Entry includes a free Tombola token. No entrance charge for children 16 or under. £2 per adult. Full details on page 24.

SATURDAY 22 ND

Paisley Abbey Concerts

Paisley Abbey 12.30pm

Throughout the year the Abbey hosts a varied programme of Lunch Hour Concerts by local musicians, singers and choral groups - today will be the Cortet Horn Quartet. Tickets £5.

SATURDAY 22 ND - SUNDAY 23 RD

RSPB Pumpkin Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

Also on 29th – 30th. Cost: £3 plus entry fees for non-members. (£3 per adult, £1.50 per child). Call 01505 842663 Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Facebook @RSPBLochwinnochNR Twitter @RSPBLochwinnoch

TUESDAY 25 TH

Clarins Event @ Decorus

Decorus of Kilmacolm, 29 Stewart Place 6.45pm

Come along to our Clarins evening for a Glass of bubbly & wonderful prizes to be won with our free raffle. Tickets available from salon, £15 booking fee, redeemable on a purchase at event

FRIDAY 28 TH - MONDAY 31 ST

Kilmacolm Scarecrow Trail

Theme will be childrens book characters. More info on page 26. Please email: eliseduncan@stcolumbas.org

SATURDAY 29 TH - SUNDAY 30 TH

Textile Workshop - Print & Stitch

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 10am to 4pm

Collagraph Printing! More info on page 8. Call 07775 665771. £120.

SATURDAY 29 TH

Houston & Killellan Kirk Chicken Drive

West Halls, Main Street, Houston (next to Carrick Centre) 6.30pm In aid of Mwandi projects.

Duchal Nursery School Open Morning

Kilmacolm 10am to 12noon

Fun packed morning of Halloween crafts & activities. Meet the teachers, current parents & find out more about our free pre school places.

KURC Halloween Disco

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 7pm to 11.30pm

£15 per person. All proceeds go to Calums Cabin. Full details on page 29. Tickets from members, Beardy Beardy or call/text 07719 957876.

SUNDAY 30 TH

Classics at Castle Semple Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 11am to 3pm

Full details on page 15.

MONDAY 31 ST

Kilmacolm Writers

Kilmacolm Community Centre 10am to 12noon

Join us to share your work, or just have chat over coffee & biscuits. Contact Victoria via Kilmacolm Writers FB page

local community, local business, local life

Beware! The Three Sisters Theatre Company are bringing you a terrifying night of enthralling theatrics of which you might not make it out alive!! A frighteningly, spooky, Halloween Showcase to warm our bones for our winter show (coming Dec 2022).

Come along, for the fright-night of your life, with bone-chilling songs, spine-tingling choreography and blood-curdling surprises!

Have the chance to be wowed by our incredible performers with something a little different and maybe win yourself some petrifying prizes in our costume contest, and games. Then make like the Boogie Man and join us for a free for all dance along to some of your favourite spooky songs for the scary season!

It’s going to be a SCREAM! Join us at RocknRollas in Paisley on Friday 21st October, doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm.

Tickets available at: https://ticketlab.co.uk/ event/id/13394#/

Ticket Prices: £7 via the website, or £8 on the door.

We are delighted to have for the second time the brilliant Breabach at Lochwinnoch on Saturday 1st October in our newly refurbished McKillop Hall. Doors at 7.30pm show at 8pm.

Also on the 15th October we are hosting at Lochwinnoch Golf Club the hugely talented Pauline Vallance and Shelagh McKay Jones. Also, on the 15th we have the superb Roseanne Reid the eldest daughter of The Proclaimers Craig Reid. Tickets: Now and Then Gifts Lochwinnoch or online http://www.scotlandontour.com

A full house at Lochwinnoch Golf club for the fantastic Orkney based Fara. This was the third time we have has this amazing band at Lochwinnoch. The played a number of new tunes from their new CD ‘Energy Island’ inspired by the renewable energy innovation taking place in their homeland of Orkney. A wonderful evening of music!! In addition, we made £260 from the raffle and donations for the Red Cross Ukrainian Appeal.

Expert Gutter Cleaning

Clean and clear blocked gutters and help protect your property from water damage by removing moss, leaves, twigs, silt, etc. Our lightweight telescopic carbon poles with specially designed cleaning brushes also allow us to gently remove the algae, dirt and grime from fascia, soffits, conservatories and other hard to reach areas.

For further information or a free quote on any of our services please call 01505 863 863

Greenock Light Opera Club (GLOC) presents Shrek the Musical on Wednesday 9th to Saturday 12th November from 7.30pm, including the Saturday matinee at 2.30pm

Tickets on sale soon, please check our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/greenockloc/photos/ a.571308386255788/517640

Call 0302413217 for more details.

Advertising Feature

Tur������g ���� Na����r�� ���� Coh���� - Ar��

Mini Exhibition and Meet the Artist

Michelle Cohen will be taking over the exhibition space at the back of the new Bridge of Weir Art Shop, Tryptych from the 18th to the 24th of November. During this time you will get to see her artwork up close and watch as she does painting demonstrations.

Michelle’s artwork is influenced by her time exploring Renfrewshire during lockdown, the Scottish landscape and Urban Glasgow. She will have photographic prints, original paintings on glass, a new local calendar and merchandise, all of which make perfect Christmas gifts.

Exhibition open from 11am - 4pm on Friday 18th - Thursday 24th November with painting demonstrations on 21st, 22nd & 23rd November from 12noon - 4pm

Tryptych Art Shop, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Fb @CohenArtGlasgow Insta @CohenArt11 e :cohen.artwork@gmail.com

ward 11

cllr james maclaren

Next

Bis������t���� A��t Gro���� A��t Ex��i����t��o��

Between Saturday 1st October and Saturday 5th November at The Bridge, Community Centre and Post Office, 63 Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NR. This exhibition follows on from previous successful exhibitions at The Bridge. The artists use a variety of mediums and styles with free access to the exhibition during The Bridge’s opening hours: MondaySaturday 10am – 12noon and Mondays only 2pm – 5pm; (Sunday closed)

Linda Mitchell, organiser and member of Bishopton Art Group said, “Members and friends of Bishopton Art Group are once again exhibiting at ‘The Bridge’. There will be a great selection of paintings on display. The paintings are also available to buy. We are very appreciative of any support that they receive.”

Twelve weeks of closure of the Barochan Road in Houston for new gas pipes to be laid is going to cause mayhem there and also on the diversion route through Bridge of Weir. Traffic movement through the village is already a big problem for the morning rush hour and school run. I’m aware of these tail backs through the village. It is important that drivers turning right into Houston Road at the traffic lights, move forward in the junction otherwise the detection equipment can’t see that vehicles are waiting. I have noticed that many drivers don’t do this as they expect a green arrow before moving. They then can’t understand why the lights go back to red and this does cause tailbacks. I have requested the timings be checked and extended if right turning traffic detected.

Thriplee Road field has been rezoned from Green Belt to White Space in the current Local Development Plan. This is a concern for local residents opposed to further development in the village, though it does not necessarily mean that any development will happen soon. There are many hurdles for a developer to overcome not least the current traffic and sewage situation.

Speeding traffic is an issue where ever you live and I am regularly contacted about this. I have arranged for consultations to take place in several places in the Ward. Hopefully improvements will be forthcoming. An officer is currently looking into the improving the gateway feature on Kilmacolm Road on entering Bridge of Weir. By the time you read this, there should be a new white line and cats eyes on the A761 between Brookfield and Bridge of Weir. I had also requested this for the route west to Kilmacolm and will be chasing this up.

Councillor Details

WARD 9:

JOHNSTONE NORTH, KILBARCHAN, HOWWOOD & LOCHWINNOCH www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/

Cllr Chris Gilmour: cllr.chris.gilmour@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1289 | 07484 064521

Cllr Gillian Graham: cllr.gillian.graham@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1268

Cllr Andy Doig: cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk 07534 148 224

Cllr Emma Rodden: cllr.emma.rodden@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1431

WARD 10:

HOUSTON, CROSSLEE & LINWOOD www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/

Cllr Audrey Doig: cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk 07768 130 935

Cllr Alison Jean Dowling: cllr.alison.dowling@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1419

Cllr Robert Innes: cllr.robert.innes@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1254

Cllr David mcGonigle: cllr.david.mcgonigle@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1287

WARD 11:

BISHOPTON, LANGBANK & BRIDGE OF WEIR www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/

Cllr James MacLaren: cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1291

Cllr fiona airlie-nicolson: cllr.fiona.airlie-nicolson@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1253

Cllr Colin McCulloch: cllr.colin.mcculloch@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1427

WARD 1: INVERCLYDE EAST www.inverclyde.gov.uk/

Cllr Christopher Curley: christopher.curley@inverclyde.gov.uk

07768 460073 | 01475 712370

Cllr Stephen McCabe: Stephen.McCabe@inverclyde.gov.uk 01475 712 020 (office hours)

Contact info: 0300 300 1291

Surgeries: From 6.30pm to 7pm. Langbank Church - 1st Monday of the month; Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir – 2nd Monday of the month; Bishopton Community Centre – 3rd Monday of the month. No need to book.

cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Cllr David Wilson: david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk 01475 741969 / 712727 | 07766 992 294

Vi��n�� I����er��������

Here at Viano Interiors we aim to please ... our friendly and helpful staff ensure our customers receive a bespoke service with unique pieces tailored towards their individual style. As a small business we believe our ethos of new regular store displays every few months and our fast lead time of 4 - 6 weeks sets us apart from other retailers. There are always lots of exciting things happening at Viano and October is no different as we present our Christmas Stock Launch on the Tuesday 18th October from 10am - 8pm with a lucky dip discount of up to 30%!!!!

We����

Bridge of Weir Senior Citizens’ Association are looking forward to enjoying this month’s meetings with the Jimmy Blair Accordion Orchestra on 12th October and the Port Glasgow Theatre Group on 26th October. Everyone would be welcome to attend. Please bring own cup.

Bri������ ��f We���� ����I

At our next meeting we will hear from Mary Ward who will speak about her work as a vet. We are delighted she is able to join us and anticipate a very interesting evening.

The meeting is at 7.15pm for 7.30pm on Thursday 6th October at the Cargill Hall.

Refreshments and a raffle. Visitors will be made very welcome.

BISHOPTON

Karate:

Johnstone Tora Kai Karate Club. Adults and children welcome (min. age 7 yrs) Instructor - Sensei Tom Lambie, 5th Dan JKA. Registered and licenced with Scottish Karate Governing Body, fully insured and PVG approved. Gradings held on an ongoing basis.

07850 407442

Johnstone Tora-Kai Karate

Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Thursday 5.50pm - 6.50pm

Zumba®:

A total workout, combining all elements of fitness: cardio, muscle conditioning,balance and flexibility, resulting in boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome.

gems_paisley@hotmail.com

Tuesday 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Ballroom/Latin:

Ballroom Basics with Stewart & Jane Wilson. New members welcome. Private/Wedding First Dance lessons available.

Stewart 07710 464 969 ballroombasics@live.co.uk

Thurs 7pm - 8pm (Beginners)

Thurs 8pm - 9pm (Intermediate)

Sat 11am - 12.30pm (Mixed Ability)

Yogabellies:

Both classes are suitable for all levels of experience including none at all! Limited places available.

yogabellieslyndsey@outlook.com

Sun 6pm - 7.15pm for Pregnancy

Sun 7.30pm - 8.30pm Hatha Flow

Mon 10am - 11am for Mum & Baby

BALLET:

Dance classes for children with The Ballet & Dance Company. Get in touch for more information or to book a trial.

suzanne@balletanddanceacademy.co.uk

Friday 4pm - 6.30pm

COUNCILLOR/MSP SURGERIES (Village Hall Library)

Cllr Robert Innes

Tuesday 18th @ 6pm - 6.30pm

Cllr Alison Ann-Dowling

Friday 21st @ 10.30am - 11am

Fes�������� Ar�� B�� t��e B����n

Outdoor Art & Craft Market at the Fox & Hounds

Art On Scotland is collaborating with the Fox & Hounds, dozens of local creative businesses and Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity to bring you these exciting markets.

We have a handmade policy assuring that we have quality traders and products with perfect timing for Christmas gifts.

The Houston Festive Light Switch On will coincide on the Friday 25th of November and we will have extended trading times until 8pm.

Each date will have new vendors offering a real variety of goods. The market is free to enter and dog friendly. While visiting you can enjoy hot food and drinks in the beer garden.

Lo��k������ fo������r�� ���� se�������� yo�� ������re!

Light Switch On Friday 25th November, 12noon - 8pm

Saturday 26th November, 11am - 4pm

Saturday 3rd December, 11am - 4pm

Sunday 4th December, 11am - 3pm

Follow us on Social Media @ArtOnScotland e: artonscotland@gmail.com

HEARTSTART TRAINING:

A Heartstart training session will take place in the Village Hall on Thursday 13th October from 7.15pm - 9.15pm. This free course eaches emergency life saving skills and covers how to:

recognise a heart attack and a cardiac arrest

help an unconscious person

perform CPR

HOUSTON

Church Hall,

Tennis

box, Houston

Houston Primary on

HOWWOOD

Hall, Station Rd

King Church,

House

help someone choking

respond to serious bleeding brookfieldvpa@gmail.com to book a place. Anyone who has previously attended Heartstart training is welcome to attend as a refresher.

NEW YOGA CLASSES for October:

Sunday 2nd October: a general Hatha Flow yoga class - suitable for all. This class is a gentle flow, moving from posture to posture with the breath. Adaptations will be available to suit beginners and to challenge more experienced students. Each class will conclude with a relaxing guided meditation setting you up for the week ahead.

Sun 7.30pm - 8.30pm

For further information or to book a place, contact: yogabellieslyndsey@outlook.com

Monday 3rd October: DDP Yoga - an energising yoga full body workout to improve flexibility, strength, balance and cardio fitness. Further details available from Laura energisewithlaura@gmail.com or 07474 443505

Mon 6.15pm - 7.15pm

brookfieldvillage.org brookfieldvpa@gmail.com @BrookfieldVPA

Bowling Club

Village Hall

Station Rd

LINWOOD

Leisure Centre

Clippens Rd

Practice, Main St

QUARRIERS

10 cllr audrey doig

As I write this column today I have just returned from Renfrewshire House, where I was supporting the Provost at Renfrewshire’s official Proclamation for the new Head of State, King Charles III. The passing of the Queen brought many family memories back, with the key example of her life for me being the importance of serving my constituents well as a Councillor.

Constituents right across my ward, from Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield, and Linwood, will welcome the fact that new signage is to be erected at Kashmir Avenue/Bridge Street, in Linwood, to make it safer for traffic approaching the Linclive roundabout to warn them of the traffic merging. This has been like this for a few years, but it has always been a hot spot for collisions, if not confusion, and given the significant traffic levels at rush hour I am very glad this has been approved.

It was in the Administration budget this year that money would be set aside to finally replace the synthetic pitch for Gryffe High School. This has been a aspiration of mine for some years so I am glad to report that work on this begins this month.

I would finally like to congratulate Brookfield Village Council on organising a fantastic (and dry) Brookfield Gala Day which my husband and I really enjoyed attending. It was lovely to meet so many local people I knew and to take in the various stalls which made for an eventful occasion.

Surgeries: Carrick Centre, Houston, Wednesday 19th October, 7pm

TESCO Linwood Café, Tuesday 18th October, 5.45pm

Contact info: 07768 130 935

cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Physiotherapy in your own home

Domiciliary Physiotherapy is for people who are unable to come to the clinic for treatment. This may be due to a recent change in mobility following any surgery, hospital admission, post covid or lockdown deconditioning, neurological conditions, e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson’s Disease or those requiring orthopaedic rehabilitation following surgery.

If you, or someone you know, would like to make an appointment for a physiotherapist to come to your own home, please call 01505 873078

We continue to offer outpatient appointments at our clinic in Kilmacolm.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

H.O.S.T

The Carrick Centre, Houston

Coffee Shop Takeaways only

Monday - Saturday: 10am - 3pm

Shop/Centre 01505 229597

Gryffe Manor Out of School: (Monday - Friday) 01505 615438

Dance West Scotland: enquiries@dancewestscotland.co.uk

MONDAY

Weekly

Sewing Group R4 10am

DWL R2,3,& MH 5pm

Diaporama R2 10th @ 7.30pm

Handiwives R4 17th @ 7.30pm

Houston Show R4 3rd @ 7.30pm

TUESDAY

Yoga R2 7pm

Gryffe Manor R1 2.30pm

Hazel Connelly Art Class R2 1.15pm

DWL R2,3 & MH 4pm

WRADS 7pm

WEDNESDAY

DWL R2, 3 ,& MH 3.30pm

MOO MUSIC R2 9.45am

Gryffe Manor R1 2.30pm

Gryffe Camera Club R2 7.30pm

Woman’s Institute R1 12th @ 7.30pm

Cllr Audrey Doig R5 19th @ 7pm

THURSDAY

Gryffe Quilting Group 1pm - 3pm (6th 10am - 3pm)

Crafty Friends R2 6th/20th@ 7.30pm

Folk Club MH 8pm

DWL MH 5.30pm

Move It Or Lose It MH 10.30am

Gryffe Manor R1 2.30pm

FRIDAY

Yoga R2 10.30am

Mr & Mrs McGhee MH 9am

DWL R2, 3, & MH 3.30pm

Gavin Newlands mp R1 14th @ 12.30pm

Cllr Alison Dowling R1 11.15am

SATURDAY

DWL R1,3, & MH 9.30am - 5pm

DWL R2 9.30am - 2pm

Cllr Robert Innes R5 15th @ 11am

Deborah Campbell Textiles R5 29th @ 10am

SUNDAY

Baptist Church 11am & 6pm

Deborah Campbell Textiles R5 30th @ 10am

Lauren Robinson B/P MH 2nd @ 2pm

Lauren Robinson B/P MH 9th @ 2pm

Centre Patrons PLEASE ADVISE date or time changes due to holidays to Centre Management

Booking enquiries:

Bill Haddow 01505 690693

Stewart Scally 01505 674277

John McDougall 07735 473645 thecarrickcentre@gmail.com hostbookings@outlook.com

WARD 10 cllr David McGonigle

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

I would like to express my sincere condolences to the Royal Family. As a mark of respect, flags are being flown at half-mast at Renfrewshire House, Paisley, Houstoun Square in Johnstone and Renfrew Town Hall.

I am delighted that the funding (CAT) proposed to be diverted from the ON-X to Ralston has been rejected. This will now hopefully allow hockey and other sports, to continue, and to flourish in Linwood.

This month a large number of constituents have contacted me about the proposed gas pipe replacement works in Houston. As there seems to be some confusion over the plan etc, I wanted to share details received from SGN.

Gas company SGN is investing £211,000 to upgrade our gas network in the Barrochan Road area of Houston. This essential work will ensure your community receives a continued safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come. In agreement with Renfrewshire Council, the project will be carried out in three phases, starting on Tuesday 20th September and lasting approximately 12 weeks.

Phase 1 – approximately three weeks

From Tuesday 20th September, SGN will be closing a section of the B789 Barrochan Road from its junction with Sandholes Road, to approximately 50 metres south of Magnus Road. During this time a signed diversion route will be in place for motorists via Fulton Drive and Magnus Road.

Phase 2 – approximately three weeks

From Monday 10th October, SGN will close a section of B789 Barrochan Road around 50 metres south of its junction with Magnus Road, to 20 metres south of the River Inn car park entrance. During this time the diversion route will be from Deafhillock Roundabout to the A761 Bridge of Weir Road and on to the B790 Houston Road.

Phase 3 – approximately six weeks

From Monday 31st October, SGN will be closing the section of the B789 Barrochan Road between Deafhillock roundabout, to around 50 metres south of Magnus Road. During this time the diversion route will be from Deafhillock roundabout to the A761 Bridge of Weir Road and on to the B790 Houston Road.

Pedestrian access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout the project. Disruption to bus services is possible, so please check with you bus operator.

SGN engineers will be working extended hours, including on weekends, to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible.

I would advise that there is information about the circumstances where compensation can be claimed by small businesses available on this website. https://sgn.co.uk/help-and-advice/customerservice/guaranteed-standards/compensation.

More details on Cllr David McGonigle | Facebook

Surgeries: Brookfield Village Hall, 43 Woodside Road, Brookfield28th November @ 3pm, 27th February @ 3pm & 28th May @ 3pm

Contact info: 0300 300 1287 cllr.david.mcgonigle@renfreshire.gov.uk Cllr David McGonigle

Ho��s������ & Kil������l���� Kir��

October is the start of a busy period for appeals at the Kirk – rather than making too many demands on the congregation and community during the month of November.

In addition to the weekly operation of accepting donations to the Foodbank on Tuesdays between 10am and 12noon and between 7pm and 8pm at the West Halls, Main Street, Houston, there will be a separate reception at the Small Hall for donations of Warm Clothes for the homeless and vulnerable on 11th, 18th and 25th October. (Alternatively, to arrange collection, contact bob. ross7@gmail.com). The clothes will be delivered to the Simon Community and the Lodging House Mission – with the Foodbank donations going as is normal to Renfrewshire Foodbank at Renfrew.

Warm clothes for the homeless & vulnerable, supported by the Simon Community & the Lodging House Mission, is again a key Local Outreach appeal at Houston & Killellan Kirk. We are seeking donations of NEW CLOTHES:

• warm underwear • boxer shorts

• sweat shirts • warm nightwear

• fleecy joggers • jumpers

• woolly hats • scarves

• gloves • socks

to keep these vulnerable men & women as warm & dry as ourselves during the winter.

The Kirk’s Mission Team are confident that those in the congregation and in the wider community will respond generously, as they have done so in previous years.

On 22nd and 29th November, also at the same time as the Foodbank, there will be another appeal for Christmas Gifts for the children of prisoners. Greater details will appear next month.

Quiz Night

on Friday 25th November at the Houston Bowling Club

Tickets £5 to include light supper. For more information contact Isabelle Stuart email: issistuart@gmail.com or Tel 07508 905298.

local community, local business, local life

Ho��s������ & Cro����l���� S��I

We continue our 2022/2023 session on Wednesday 12th October at 7.30pm with a visit from Fiona Bretherton of “Move It or Lose It”. She will tell us about the movement and show us exercises to do. At our November meeting we will hear about the Swanieston Farm Shop.

We are again meeting in The Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. Please come along and join us, you will be very welcome. If you wish any further information please phone 07932 459994.

The old library centre

kilbarchan

opening Times:

Monday – Friday: 10am to 12noon & 2pm to 4pm re-opening on Tuesday

Monday

Spanish Conversation 2pm3.45pm (University of the 3rd Age)

Tuesday

Craft Group 2pm - 4pm (every 2nd Tuesday)

Book Group 7.15pm - 8.30pm (once a month)

Wednesday

Yoga with Elizabeth 10am - 11.30am & 7.30pm - 9pm (waiting list)

Spanish Class 10.30am - 12noon (10 week course starting 5th October)

Italian Class 2pm - 3.30pm (10 week class starting 5th October)

Thursday

Move it or Lose it 2pm -3pm (exercise for over 60’s)

Friday

Bridge 2pm - 4pm (starting 30th September)

Members old and new will be made most welcome.

We have a new Family History Group starting in October on a Thursday evening (date to be decided). Contact the centre if you are interested.

We have a return date for the popular band CIMARRON on the 28th October. Tickets are £10 each. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm prompt start. The last concert in December was a sellout so don’t wait to get your tickets. Tel or email as below.

The Old Library Centre 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, PA10 2EF Kipco is a Scottish charity, SC031251, and is run by volunteers

01505 706070 kipcokil@hotmail.com www.kipco.org

ward 9

cllr andy doig

As I write this column today I have just returned from Renfrewshire House, where I was supporting the Provost at Renfrewshire’s official Proclamation for the new Head of State, King Charles III. In one solitary week we have seen both a new Head of State and a new Prime Minister. My Granny used to always say that big things come in threes, and the next big change will be the challenge of rising energy bills.

Renfrewshire Council is committed to supporting our residents through this most worrying of times, and I would advise constituents that they can access support on how to save money on energy bills, or to access benefits to which they may be entitled, by contacting both the Council’s AdviceWorks service and the Citizens Advice Bureau. AdviceWorks can be called on 0300 300 1238 or e mailed on adviceworks@renfrewshire. gov.uk, and CAB can be called on 0141 889 2121.

I am delighted that the last Finance Board agreed a new contract to roll out public wi-fi to all our village halls, such as the McKillop Institute, the Steeple Hall, and Howwood Village Hall. This was very much in the spirit of the agreed motion that I put to the last full council meeting in June which demanded that we must have equality of wi-fi provision for all the schemes and villages, not just the three main town centres.

Surgeries: 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.

Contact info: 07534 148 224 cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk IndependentVoice/Ward9JohnstoneAnd Villages CllrAndy4Ward8

Kil������c������

We are delighted to announce our first art exhibition since the lockdown.

Our members have still been extremely creative during this period, so we have an exciting range of paintings to put on show.

This year we are featuring “Pick, Pay and Take Away”. It means you will be able to take away your painting as soon as you buy it, so bring cash as this will be a cash - only event. No waiting until the end of the show!

ALSO … we have our usual Tombola with some amazing prizes to be won.

Entry will be £2 per adult, but this includes a free Tombola token. More can be purchased at the Tombola stall. There is no entrance charge for children 16 or under.

The exhibition is to be held in Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan

OPENING TIMES

Friday 21st - Saturday 22nd October, from 10am until 4pm

Kil������c������ Par������ Chu����h

Services continue at 11am each Sunday, both in church and on live stream via Youtube, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. Junior Church meets in the hall from 10.45am. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated on Sunday 30th at 11am. All welcome. Visit the website for all details of organisations: www.kilbarchankirk. org. Midweek Fellowship meets on Wednesdays in the small hall at 10.30am for coffee followed by a short reflection at 11am.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club continues on Mondays from 9.15am - 11.30am in the large hall. We shall be open on the Mondays of the school holiday week. The Hallowe’en Party is on 31st October at 9.45am when we look forward to seeing all the tots in fancy dress.

W��m����’s Reg��������r

Meetings continue face to face and on zoom - Lesser known charities, Months of the year, TV theme tunes which evoke memories, Pornography, as viewed through the ages, Robots and how we would use one!! We also have a guided visit to House for an Art Lover. We shall be participating in a national walk “Making Strides Together” when we are challenged to do a national combined walk of 628 miles to join Roseland group in Cornwall with Bridge of Don near Aberdeen.

The Book Group will meet to discuss “Atonement“, and to view the film.

For further info re our group, call 703786 or visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

cllr gillian graham

It’s been a busy month with Renfrewshire Council and Community Councils starting back after the summer break. I’ve met with many residents to discuss local concerns including roads, bridges, trees and child-care provision. I’m pleased that many are resolved, however, I will continue to liaise with council officers to seek solutions to ongoing issues.

As we enter the autumn months and the cost-of-living crisis deepens, my thoughts and concerns are particularly with the vulnerable in our community. With the rising cost of food and fuel many individuals and families will find themselves finding it more difficult to pay their household bills. This is a one-crisis-fits-all moment and as elected representatives we must work together across all parties to ensure the Council uses its powers to deliver support where and when it can.

In doing so we must also join forces with our partners and community organisations, to ensure that our residents remain safe and warm this winter. As reported in the press we will be looking for the Council to provide warm welcoming spaces for our vulnerable residents to visit during the winter months.

Increased support is also needed for children and families. 18% of our children and young people live in low-income families. The impact of the cost-of-living crisis is hitting these working families the hardest. It is widely recognised that school holiday periods add to the stress of costs for many families and result in less access to food and social activity. Foodbanks also report increased demand during holiday periods.

With my colleague Cllr Chris Gilmour, I am submitting a motion to Renfrewshire Council seeking its commitment to establish a Holiday Hunger Fund. This fund will be used to work with local community groups throughout Renfrewshire, to provide free meals and social activities over school holiday periods.

Contact

How�������� Par������ Ch������h

Well, haven’t we just come through a stupendous and very sad month? The loss of Queen Elizabeth has been a great loss to many, royalist or not. Rest in peace, your Majesty.

Lots on during the month of October

Sunday 9th @ 10 am - Harvest Sunday

And a wee reminder to bring gifts of food to be donated to the local foodbank. Hand into the church from 9.30am on the 9th.

Monday 17th @ 2.30pm - 4pm - Women’s Guild starts

In the church hall, Fiona Blair, deaconess will be the speaker, come along and enjoy.

Monday 24th - Line Dancing

Come along to this fun event - all invited.

Wednesday 26th @ 11am - 1pm - Monthly Coffee Mornings

In church hall, come along and meet friends and have a chat and a gossip.

Friday 28th @ 10am till 12noon - McMillan Coffee Morning

In church hall. This is a charity which needs all our support, come along and bring your friends.

Church Halls, Main Road, Howwood (attached to the church).

Sunday 30th - Communion

Our service and Sunday School start every Sunday at 10am.

Fri������s ���� Ho��w������

We are restarting our monthly meetings for coffee/tea and friendship on Wednesday 26th of October in Howwood Parish Church Hall from 11am - 1pm price £2. A warm welcome to everyone.

Cargill Centre

Kilmacolm new Community Centre

Monday

Yoga with Liz 10am – 11am

Yoga with Janis 10am - 11am

Kilmacolm Bridge Club 7pm – 10.30pm

Tuesday

Qi Gong 12noon – 1pm

Art Club 6pm – 8.30pm

Singing for Health & Wellbeing 6pm – 8.30pm

Zumba 6pm – 7pm Bridge 7pm – 9.30pm

Bridge with Mrs Dillon 7pm – 9pm

Wednesday

Move It Or Lose It 10.30am – 11.45am

Pensioners Lunch 12.30pm – 2pm

Friendly Bridge 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Pilates 6.15pm – 7.15pm & 7.30pm – 8.30pm

Thursday

Pilates 9.30am – 10.30am

Acting For Fun 5pm – 8.30pm

Metafit 6.30pm – 7pm

Kettle Bells 7pm – 7.30pm

Friday

Moo Music Inverclyde 10.30am – 11.30am

Singing for Health & Wellbeing 11.30am – 12.30pm

Centre Opening Times

Monday – Friday: 9am to 10pm

Saturday: 9am to 3pm

Sunday: Closed

Enquiries & Room Hire: 01505 873994

Cafe Opening Times

Monday – Friday: 10am to 4pm

Saturday: 10am to 3pm

Bri������ ��f We����

Cho������ S��ci������

The new season of Bridge of Weir Choral Society rehearsals is under way on Wednesday evenings at 7pm in the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm. It’s not too late to join if you are interested - just turn up and identify yourself to any choir member. There is no audition process, music is supplied, and you can come along for a couple of weeks before joining.

This year’s Christmas concert (our first for three years) is planned for Sunday December 11th

A fundraising coffee morning is planned for October 8th in Kidston Hall from 10am - 12noon. Stalls will include a tombola, cake, candy and a raffle.

For further information, contact Mary.Leishman@4-consulting.com

Kil��������l�� O��d Ki����

Riverside Youth Band will be performing in the Old Kirk on Sunday 2nd October at 3pm Admission is by donation at the door.

Sunday Worship takes place in Kilmacolm Old Kirk every Sunday at 11am. All services are streamed online through our Facebook Page and can be watched live or at any point afterwards for those who cannot attend via @KilmacolmOld

Kil��������l��

Sca������r���� T��a��l

From 28th - 31st October

Calling all Scarecrow makers!

This year the theme will be childrens book characters.

david wilson

After 15 years in the role, I have relinquished the chair of the Inverclyde Council Planning Board. There have been many major applications for development on green belt around and in Kilmacolm in this time. I voted against all apart from the St Columba’s school extension and public car park in the field behind the Police Station. Approval by officers was recommended and due to the school’s economic importance to the village and necessity for relief parking, I voted in favour. Unfortunately enough of my colleagues thought otherwise and the proposal was refused.

Lord McLay has been personally planting specific species of rhododendron and azalea in Milton Wood, but some misguided people have been cutting them down. Police and Wardens are monitoring matters. The McLays may move to be nearer family and this will be a loss to the village.

Police have the responsibility to enforce and monitor speeding in the village. In my new role as Police and Fire Service scrutiny committee chair I attended the installation of new speed cameras on two busy roads in Inverclyde, in an attempt to reduce the number of crashes happening there. The locations were selected because there have been 49 recorded collisions. The cameras are funded by the Home Office and sites are identified following a comprehensive site selection process which assessed all roads across Scotland. I do receive many complaints regarding speeding in Kilmacolm and have referred these to the Chief Inspector.

We are faced with some tough budget decisions for our 23/24 budget. We have a gap of some £15m which may be made worse by employee wage settlements. As a rule the public sector is paid on average more than the private sector and has enhanced pension provision.

The Council observed impeccably the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Service of Commemoration with Colonel Peter McCarthy, the Lord Lieutenant, in attendance, was conducted with due reverence appropriate to the circumstances.

Thanks are due to Mike Abram who observed all the flag protocol regarding the village flagpole on the Old Kirk.

Surgery: The Cargill 12th October 11am - 12noon.

Contact info: 07766 992 294 or 01475 741 969 / 722 975 david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk

Kil��������l��

Wri������s

Monday 31st October from 10am - 12noon, The Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm.

Sòla�� ����r��a��������n��

d��o��-in G��������

The group will be meeting in the Lounge of the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm on Thursday 13th October at 2pm

As always, this meeting is open to all, with no pre-registration required.

Sòlas supports those from Kilmacolm and surrounding areas who have lost a loved one.

If you’d like to be part of this fantastic community event then please email : eliseduncan@stcolumbas.org

Reservations & Takeaway: 01505 874663

Sunday: Closed www.cargillcentre.com

We would love to see this event build from last year. Can you get together with neighbours and have a friendly competition?

Join us to share your work, or just have chat over coffee and biscuits. Contact Victoria Finnigan to register interest via Kilmacolm Writers Facebook page.

It doesn’t matter if it was recently or a long time ago, Sòlas creates a safe place to talk, to listen and to heal. You will be supported in processing issues of grief and loss by expert speakers as well as each other.

For more information please call Barbara Marshall on 01505 872417 or email: barbara@ oochy.com

Kil��������l��

Dra��������c So��������y

We recently held our annual Barbeque at Kilmacolm Bowling Club. A great day was had by all, with most taking the opportunity to try out bowling. Huge thanks to Bruce and his team at the Bowling Club for their hospitality and expert tuition.

The Society’s activities go beyond the two shows we put on each year. We have a calendar of regular social and fundraising events.

Similarly, our shows rely on far more than the handful of actors you see on stage. Up to 40 volunteers are involved backstage. Costumes; props; set building, sound and lighting and, of course, the front of house team. If you’re interested, maybe learn a new skill and definitely have fun, we’d love to hear from you. With rehearsals under way for our hilariously silly King Arthur, the Panto by Archie Wilson, this is the perfect time to get involved. We are especially looking for volunteers to help make costumes. For further details, contact the Director Mandy on 07719 309960 or by email: joerobinson@btinternet.com.

ward 1

cllr Stephen Mccabe

Much of last month was dominated by the sudden passing of Her Majesty The Queen and the accession of our new King. I attended the local Accession Proclamation and a service of remembrance for the late Queen in Greenock. Provost Drew McKenzie represented the Council at the service in St Giles Cathedral. Queen Elizabeth lived a remarkable life of service to our country for which we should be truly grateful. We should also wish King Charles a long and successful reign.

Earlier in the month strike action by Council refuse workers and school support staff was suspended following an improved pay offer. At the time of writing the outcome of unions’ ballots is awaited to see if the strikes will be called off altogether. Teaching unions are separately balloting on industrial action following the rejection of a 5% pay offer so even if the first dispute is settled we may still face disruption to our schools. The vital work that Council staff do is often not appreciated until the service is not available.

Unfortunately due to the ongoing impact of funding cuts by the Scottish Government and the current high level of inflation Councils across Scotland are facing the prospect of having to cut jobs and services to balance our books. The Council’s Policy and Resources Committee has agreed to put around £12m of savings proposals out for public consultation as we seek to set a two year budget next February. The consultation will run from 10th to 31st October. Details can be found on the Council’s website at www. inverclyde.gov.uk/yoursay. I would encourage you to respond to the survey so that your views are heard by elected members who will make the final decisions.

Surgery: Kilmacolm Community Centre on Tuesday 4th October from 6.30pm to 7.30 pm.

Contact info: 01475 712 020 (office hours)

Stephen.McCabe@Inverclyde.gov.uk 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm, PA13 4HL

Out��������

OUTLOOK is a social community group led by the Community Issues team of Kilmacolm Old Kirk, extending fellowship and friendship and a warm welcome to everyone. The group meets In Kidston Hall on 1st and 3rd Thursdays monthly from 2pm to 3.30pm. A delicious afternoon tea is provided by the volunteer team, with all donations in the Thank You Box given to Local Charities. Meetings traditionally enjoy a guest speaker, or videos, quiz, tombola, easy keep fit. Dates for October:

Thursday 6th - Keep Fit with Grace: gentle chair or floor exercises. Followed by the usual delicious afternoon tea with homebaking provided by the OUTLOOK team.

Thursday 20th - Bird Sanctuary/Polar Bears - Colin Houston presentation with photographs of holiday in Jan Mayen Isle, Svalbard, Oslo and Canadian Arctic.

An��e�� V����ce��

We’re celebrating our 10th Anniversary!

If you’re aged between 4 and 14 years come along and sing!

Fridays at 6pm - 7pm in St. Fillan’s Episcopal Church Hall, Kilmacolm

For more details contact: M. Russell 07905 950028 or e: maureenrussell@ hotmail.com

Hal��������en D��������

Saturday 29th October 7pm -11.30pm

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm £15 pp. Bring your own drinks. All proceeds for ‘Calums Cabin’ This will be Kilmacolm Unofficial Running Club’s 6th Annual Charity Night and we have raised over £12,000 for local charities with the previous five events.

There will be a Disco, Hot Buffet, Games, prices for Fancy Dress, a Raffle, a Lucky Ticket and Amazon Mystery Boxes for sale.

Tickets available from any running club member, ‘Beardy Beardy’ or call 07719 957876.

Mon���� ����u��d

Near Kilmacolm Cross on 7th September. To claim, phone 01505 872448 or 07977 776649.

schools & Sports

Kil��archa�� Commu��ity Nurs������ SCI��

The children have settled back into nursery for the new session. We welcomed 13 new children in August along with two new members of staff. The children have been talking about their feelings and we all checked in with each other on Thursday 8th September, acknowledging Australian ‘Are You Ok Day’. This turned into a significant and timely event with the passing of Her Majesty The Queen on that day.

The children have harvested the apples from the fruit trees in the garden and made delicious apple crumble. They have enjoyed having access to the gym hall in the primary school where they have lots of space to develop

their physical skills. The children have been planning for the term ahead, leading their own learning and have chosen to explore space and, through an interest in the Hungry Caterpillar story, have been learning about life cycles.

An open evening is being held in the nursery on Monday 3rd October between 6pm and 8pm when parents and anyone interested in the service are invited to come along, see the nursery set up for early learning and find out what we have to offer. For more information, please contact the nursery on 01505 704839 or check out our website https://kilbarchancn.com/

Regular Meet Classes

Reebok Step Class

Freeland 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 07505 126416

Jennifer Sloan

Physiotherapy Led Pilates

Kilmacolm Community Centre

Wednesdays: 6.15pm - 7.15pm 7.30pm - 8.30pm Thursdays: 9.30am - 10.30am Jennifer 07731 303709 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 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 07505 126 416

Ab��e��

Nur����ry

In September so far the Busy Bunnieshavetaken a stroll through the deep dark woods meeting some familiar friends along the way.

info@advertizer.co.uk 01505 613340 (Small fee applies)

Move it or Lose it!

Gourock, Bridge of Weir, Greenock, Kilmacolm, Houston, Kilbarchan Classes are aimed at the over 60s. We focus on Flexibility, Aerobic Health, Balance and Strength (FABS) exercises.

First class free for new members www.moveitorloseito.co.uk Move-it -or-lose-it-with-fiona Fiona 07811 766672

energise with laura

The Health Hub, Quarriers Village

Tuesday: 12.30pm - 1.10pm Thursday: 7pm - 8pm

DDP Yoga Beginner Classes for improving strength, flexibility and balance.

1:1 and private group sessions available. energisewithlaura@gmail.com www.energisewithlaura.com

pilates & movement class with margaret kytzia

McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch Tuesday: 6.30pm & 7.30pm McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch

Thursday: 11am

Classes designed to guide you through restorative movements whilst improving strength, mobility & flexibility. maggiekytzia@icloud Margaret 07930 324276

The children put on their baking thinking caps and made Gruffalo Crumble, created owl ice cream, Gruffalo Cake and Roasted Fox! They have in depth explored the Gruffalo story with the children and visited the local woodland area, expanding on their creativity skills whilst decorating a welcoming path for the characters from the story to walk along making them feel welcomed and included along the way throughout the retelling of the story.

St Colu��ba’s S����ool

It was with great pleasure that we opened the school gates last month and welcomed our pupils back to school. Our aim in the first few weeks is to help everyone settle into the school routine and to extend a warm welcome to our new families, including three sets of twins in Senior I – a school record!

Our youngest pupils in Early Years have had a busy start to the session and are having fun exploring the Wild Woodies, doing Active Body classes, making their own snack and brushing their teeth. Phew!

Junior 6 had the time of their lives last week on a residential trip to Dolphin House at Culzean Castle. They enjoyed canoeing, gorge walking, toasting marshmallows on a camp fire and spending lots of time bonding together as a year group. Many thanks to the staff at Dolphin House and to the teachers who accompanied them - especially Mr Sutton who only joined the Junior School at the start of term!

Elsewhere in Junior School, Josh Thomson, the Boccia Co-ordinator for Scottish Disability Sport, led sessions with our older pupils. Boccia (pronounced botcha) is a Paralympic sport similar to boules or pétanque, but uses a soft leather ball. The boccia bonanza was a huge hit and enjoyed by all.

We are delighted to offer pupils from Junior 4 onwards a wide range of extracurricular clubs and societies. Firm favourites such as hockey, rugby, debating, Lego Masters, CanSat, dance, drama, choirs and ensembles are well underway; however, we also have new offerings this year including filmmaking, mythology and wargaming. There is something for everyone!

The Gardening Club have been busy harvesting potatoes and herbs and the flowerpots at Junior School are looking fabulous. Their focus over the coming weeks is to harvest the rest of their crops and to prepare for winter. www.st-columbas.org

Duchal N��r��ery

As we settle into the term our children are embracing all the different activities, growing in confidence, making friends and learning new skills while, most importantly, having lots of fun!

There have been science experiments, problem solving tasks, creative art, messy play as well as some wonderful baking afternoons and smoothie making sessions! We are delighted that Madame Camelford has joined us for French lessons, it is wonderful to have a native speaking French teacher introducing the children to a new language. They have been learning through songs with the help of Poppy the Puppet!

Mrs Campbell is delighting everyone with her weekly music class, it is fantastic to see how engaged all the children are during these sessions Amazingly we also have had time for our weekly fitness session with

our local Personal Trainer, Colin Cox and football with Morton in the Community. The children do such a huge variety of activities as well as having plenty of opportunities for imaginative play, inside and out and quiet time

Duchal is open 8am - 6pm each day and offers free funded places to 3 –5 year olds. The best way to find out more about us is to arrange a visit to chat to the teachers, look at our wonderful facilities and see Duchal in action! Please phone (01505 874358) or email (info@duchal.com) to arrange a time that suits you.

Keep up to date on all our news and events (including forthcoming Open Days) by following us on social media and our website www.duchal.com

Duchal Nursery

Giving Your Child the Best Start in Life.

Langbank Primary School

Primary One

Our Primary 1 pupils have settled in to school beautifully since August. They have particularly enjoyed working with their Primary 7 buddies especially during their weekly paired reading sessions in class. Primary 1 have also enjoyed exploring the Langbank playground and taking their learning outdoors.

Pupil Leadership Groups

Following a school wide election, our House Captains and Chair for the Pupil Council have been selected for this year. These pupils will take on lots of important responsibilities such as representing their houses and stages at meetings with the Head Teacher and helping to make important decisions about the school. Our pupils leaders have already shown that they are excellent role models and we are looking forward to seeing them lead further opportunities and events through-out the school year.

Kilmacolm Golf Club

As predicted in our article last month, Championship Weekend was a brilliant showcase of golf from all sections of the club. It was wonderful to watch our juniors, seniors, ladies and gents all competing at such a high level to gain a Champion.

The Scottish summer made an attempt to dampen proceedings, but a huge thank you to the Greens team who managed to get the course in such great condition after some torrential overnight rain.

In blustery conditions on Saturday the final 32 Gents competitors took to the course with some great matches being battled out to the last. The Ladies and Seniors Semi Finals saw some close encounters and great golf too.

With finals day arriving we knew there would be a new name on the Champions board of honour, with 4 Gents taking part in the semis, none of whom had previously won the trophy, in the end the youngsters took the spoils with Mackenzie Holmes and Jordan Ferguson proceeding to the final. After a great tussle and pitch perfect shots, Jordan was victorious with the match going to the 18th green.

The ladies saw Club Captain and reigning Champion, Megan Briggs take on Lesley Handley. Both ladies played some stunning golf with hardly a dropped shot between them throughout the round, however Megan wasn’t going to relinquish her hold on the Champions trophy just yet with another win, despite Lesley’s brilliant play.

STEM

This term Langbank Primary has seen STEM Learning kick off with a bang at every stage. Our learners have been taking part in STEM workshops where they applied their critical thinking skills during practical science and technology learning experiences. This has included learning to create electricity circuits and using microscopes during scientific investigations. Our Primary 6/7 pupils have also been learning to use pocketsized computer devices called micro:bits where they have developed their skills in coding and programming. We are excited to continue our STEM learning through-out the rest of the school year and see what further skills our pupils can develop.

Our Junior final was between Alexander Farmer and Struan Brooksbank, again some amazing scratch golf being played by both players, demonstrating the strength and depth of our junior section. In the end Alexander was too strong for Struan winning the trophy for the 2nd time. Again in the Seniors section we were guaranteed a new name on the trophy as Stuart Nicol and James Petty did battle in the final. This was a really close match with some great golf, and by the end of 18 holes there was still no winner, so up the 19th and 20th holes they went when Stuart finally broke ahead.

It was lovely to have so many members supporting the players over the weekend, creating a wonderful atmosphere around the course and clubhouse.

The club was again bustling for our annual Ladies Day which was a shotgun start with 64 ladies and gents playing and enjoying a wonderful meal in the clubhouse afterwards. Well done to Diane Cunning and Douglas McDonald who won on countback!

After the superb win by the Gents Newton Shield team the Ladies weren’t going to be outdone and finished a fantastic season by winning all but one of their Greenlees League matches, winning the division and gaining promotion for next year. Congratulations to all who have played and represented the club so successfully over the summer.

Ranfurly Castle Ladies

The Golfing season at Ranfurly Castle is coming to an end and it has been a busy few weeks. On 24th August the ladies held a Charity Fun Tri-am competition raising £84 for Anaphylaxis. The winning team on the day were Sheila Biggart, Gillian Donaghy and Alison Templeton with 75 stableford points. Runners up were Marion Munro, Joy McLeod and Lilias Lamont with 72 points.

The Club Finals day was held on Sunday 28th August and it was a lovely sunny day with some excellent golf played in all the finals. A very exciting match was played between Louise Cooper and Anne Judge, the match finishing with a win for Louise at the 19th Hole. Congratulations to the new Ladies Champion. The new Club Champion is Greg Paterson, Club Junior Champion is Louis McIvar, Senior Champion is Robert Murray and winner of the Holms Plate is Robin Freeburn. The Warpleston Trophy was won by Ann Gordon and Steve Collins. Very many congratulations to all the winners.

On 31st August it was the Centenary Trophy, Helen Abram the winner with a net 76, runner up Joy McLeod with a net 77 (BIH).

The Pooh Putter is traditionally played for between the Lady Captain and the Vice Captain’s teams. This match has not been played for 2 years, but this year it was between the Lady Captain’s team and the Past Lady Captain’s team. A win for the Past Lady Captain Gillian Donaghy.

This year the Ladies, once again, had a golf outing which was to Cawder Golf Club. Despite the weather turning very wet, everyone enjoyed the day and the winning team consisted of Karen Binning, Pat Pennel and Helen Abram with a score of 48 stableford points.

The final silverware of the year, the Mitchell Trophy, was played on 14th September, Helen Abram winning with a score of net 74 and Sheila Biggart runner-up with a score of net 75.

The ladies Greenlees Team finished their season with a home win over Loudon Gowf. This was a rescheduled match due to torrential rain on the first outing.

The club held a very successful Bridge Afternoon on 13th September, the first for 2 years. Everyone was delighted to be back playing again and it was lovely to see the club full of people enjoying the refurbished surroundings for the first time. The Ladies Committee provided an excellent afternoon tea and £110 was raised for Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland. The winner on the day was Cynthia Keanie, runnerup Margaret Parrot.

Kilmacolm Bo��l������ Cl����’s Yellow Day

Kilmacolm Bowling Club’s latest fundraiser which the ladies held in Aid of Ardgowan Hospice; Patient Transport arm. The Ladies President; Mary Geddes is a volunteer driver so a very appropriate choice as she is so aware of how important and appreciated the service is. 38 ladies playing on the green from our own and local clubs (1 rink and 5 triples) followed with a drink and tasty treats with our ladies channelling their inner Delia. Everyone who attended brought fund raising contributions highlighting the sense of community being a bowler brings. A great day and thanks to everyone for making this a day to remember. £420 raised!!!!!

St��a��hgryffeT������is Club

Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash & Fitness recently hosted their Mini Tennis Club Championships Fun Weekend for players aged 10 and under. The 50 children who attended enjoyed lots of games, team challenges and a tournament.

If you would like to try the facilities at Strathgryffe we offer a free 1 week trial membership. For further information, go to www.strathgryffe.net/ membership. The facilities include 10 floodlit tennis courts (4 indoor & 6 outdoor), 2 glass backed squash courts and 2 fitness suites.

Lad������ I��vi��a��ion Day a�� Ol�� Cours�� Ranfurly 4th Se��t

Well the weather didn’t beat us, although it tried!

There was no sign of the forecast thunderstorms as the ladies of Old Course Ranfurly and their guests took to the tees, in fact the sun shone from start to finish.

A great atmosphere and some great golf was the order of the day. The winners were Shirley Bell and her guest Patricia MacEwan from Ranfurly Castle, with an impressive 39 Stableford points .

Lunch was delicious, as always, thanks to Louise and Stewart Catering.

Get o�� ��our �������� in ������ Oc��ober holidays

The Inverclyde Bothy are giving parents and grandparents the opportunity to ‘Get on their bike’ over the October school holidays.

A fun and practical 2 hour session, where simple tips and techniques will get you cycling safely as a whole family.

All sessions are delivered by our qualified Cycle Instructor.

Sessions are on Monday 11th, Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th October at various locations throughout Inverclyde. It is free of charge and they will even supply a bike if required.

For more information please get in touch by emailing: keith.fergus@ CyclingUK.org or Facebook @inverclydebothy

In association with:

Thank you to our Lady Captain, Fiona MacPhee, and her committee, for another great day of ladies golf.

Winners being presented by Lady Captain Fiona MacPhee

Cassie Forbes celebrating after holing a 30 foot putt

Ranfurly Castle Golf Cl��b ��ham����on��

Finals day was played on a glorious sunny day and the greens team presented the golf course in superb condition.

The matches were played in good spirit and some excellent golf was on show.

Congratulations to our new Club Champion Greg Paterson, Ladies Champion Louise Cooper and Junior Champion Lewis McIlvray Well done to Robert Murray, Seniors Champion who also won the Summer Singles Quaich, Don Bremner & Jim Park were winners of the Gent Foursomes, Cuthbertson Trophy.

Anne Gordon & Steve Collins, Mixed Foursomes secured the Worplesdon Cup and Robin Freeburn was victorious in the Holms Plate.

Congratulations to all our champions and many thanks to everyone who came out and gave the players their support.

Renfr��w����ire Gol�� Unio��

Greenock Clubs Triumph at Ranfurly Castle Golf Club

Sunday the 4th of September saw the Finals of the RGU Champion of Champions and the County Cup Club Handicap Team Championships events held at Ranfurly Castle Golf Club as the culmination of several months hard work on the part of the various participants.

In the final of the Champion of Champions Andrew Farmer – Kilmacolm G C was up against Paul Dorrian – Greenock GC - both RGU County players and in good form. This was match of outstanding quality with the players

sharing 9 birdies between them over the 17 holes played and a great window for the quality of golf in Renfrewshire. While Andrew has won many National, County and Club events and represented Scotland, Paul who won the Junior Champion of Champions in 2015 is the first player to have his name on both Trophies.

In the County Cup, an event for all Golf Clubs within the Renfrewshire Golf Union where each club provides a team made of mixed handicap abilities, the Final saw the holders, Greenock Whinhill Golf Cub facing the challenge from far away neighbours, Bonnyton Golf Club. With both clubs having come through there sectional leagues, Greenock Whinhill beat Williamwood in the semi-final while Bonnyton beat Ranfurly Castle.

The final was a close call with Greenock Whinhill emerging victorious by 3.5 matches to 1.5 matches and retaining the Trophy. Well done and commiserations to Bonnyton.

Thanks to Ranfurly Castle Golf Club from the Renfrewshire Golf Union for allowing us to host the finals at this venue with the particularly trying conditions prior to the start to presenting the course in immaculate condition. Other facilities at the club were excellent.

Who �������� ����u M����t o�� H����l����e���� St����e��?

ISBN 9781471199431

by Gareth Peter Illustrated by Tim Budgen

Simon & Schuster Ltd

There’s a full moon on Halloween Street, get ready to meet the ghoulish characters who live there! ‘The creepiest creatures lurk outside each door .. but they’re here for the spookfest! Come on, let’s explore..’ Once you’ve met all of the spooky creatures there is one last house to explore, I wonder who could live there? The perfect Halloween picture book for ages 2+

How ���� S����vi���� A��y����er��: Sta������g A������e ��n ������ Wor����’s Mo���� Ex����em�� Pla������

ISBN 9781788008129

Nosy Crow Ltd by Ben Lerwill

Illustrated by Daniel Long

Travel around the world and discover survival tips and tricks in this adventurer’s survival guide. Discover how to build an igloo in the Arctic Circle and how to make a fire to keep warm when there are no trees. Learn how to find water in the Amazon Rainforest and what to do if a lion charges at you in the African Savannah! As well as teaching survival skills, this book is filled with lots of brilliant facts and stories of survival for adventure lovers to enjoy. Recommended for 7+ adventurers.

Gu��s�� ����ok ��������ew ���� Imo������ J��ffre�� (ag�� 10)

The ��������l�� Ma����h �������� St��i����s B������

ISBN 9781398512818

Simon & Schuster Ltd

By Emma Carroll

Illustrated by Lauren Child

The Little Match Girl Strikes Back is a book about matches, magic and taking control of your life! It is an excellent twist on ‘The Little Match Girl’ by Hans Christian Andersen. Bridie, a little match girl, works hard to feed her family, even if it means coming home battered and bruised. After an unfortunate accident leaves her with only three remaining matches, Bridie strikes them against the wall and after wishing into the flame, she can view anything she desires. With the realisation she can change her own future, Bridie leads the match workers on a strike to change history. Incredible real life photographs of the match workers from the Victorian age can be found at the back of this book, with a wonderful description by the author herself.

A twisted historical fiction tale highly recommended for 8+ readers.

Oc��o����r, Oc��o����r

ISBN 9781526601933

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

By Katya Balen

Illustrated by Angela Harding

Winner of the Yoto Carnegie Medal 2022. October is wild and she is free. She lives in the woods with her dad where she is happy and they are self sufficient. But on the day October turns eleven, everything changes. The woman who calls herself October’s mother is back and nothing will be the same again. After her dad has an accident, October has to live with her mother, but not in the woods where she can be wild but in the city where the noises are too loud and the children don’t look or behave like her. October longs to be free again but her dad is in hospital and will be for some time. Over time October finds herself gradually adjusting to her new surroundings, but isn’t ever able to forget about the place that she calls home. Could she find a way to accept both the wildness of the wood and the bustle of the city, and finally allow her mother to become a part of her life again? October, October is a beautifully written story to be enjoyed by both children (9+) and adults alike.

local community, local business, local life

out & about

Kil������c������ Smi����

Callochant Farm Woodland Trust trees and ENABLE

Col��������ul K��������co����

Have you ever wondered how Colourful Kilmacolm manages to keep their displays looking good throughout the season? Some of you will know that we have teams of volunteer helpers who are assigned a week or two with the task of dead-heading, weeding and, above all, watering and feeding the plants. Some of you will have seen us. Some of you have thanked us – we like that a lot!

With our Scottish summers it is a bit of a lottery how much attention is needed. One team can have a 2-week slot during a mini heatwave and the next team would look silly going about the village with watering cans in the pouring rain. Gardening of any kind is a hostage to the weather, so it is always a relief to us if our displays come through the season and still look good at the end. By and large this has been a successful year, although there are always tweaks that can be carried out the following year.

A special mention must be made of the two barrier baskets at the far end of Whitelea Crescent. They were purchased as a result of a suggestion from a resident, who also maintains them (thank you, AB) and have elicited quite a number of favourable comments.

If you have any spare time and enjoy being out in the fresh air, how about coming along to help? You can find information about joining at www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or phone Peter (01505 872448) or Liz (07963 973031).

R����B Loc������n������h

We are well into Autumn now and the dark nights are settling in. It’s the time of the year when our winter migrants start to arrive our summer visitors are well away to warmer climes. We are hoping that our new scrape that was constructed last autumn will soon be welcoming lots of wigeon, teal, goldeneye, pochard, goosander and of course whooper swans. The autumn months are always full of colour at the reserve the leaves are changing to red, gold, and brown, colourful berries are appearing and lots of amazing fungi has replaced the wildflowers. The trails are worth a wee visit at this time of the year, you never know what you might see.

This month is also Halloween and we have some spooky events to keep your Halloween spirits up. Firstly, it is the Halloween Scavenger Hunt from October 1st – 21st & then the 24th – 28th. We also have our very popular Pumpkin Hunt on the weekends of the 22nd, 23rd and 29th & 30th

Our reserve shop continues to sell all your bird feeding requirements plus books and fancy goods, binoculars, and telescopes. Or why not pop in for a hot drink and a sandwich and have a wee chat with our friendly staff, or just sit and relax and watch the wildlife go by.

So why not visit us for a unique family day out.

For more information about the reserve, please call – 01505 842663 or email us on: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk we are also on Facebook @RSPBLochwinnochNR and twitter @ RSPBLochwinnoch

In December last year members of Kilbarchan Smile and local volunteers planted 345 trees from the Woodland Trust at Callochant Farm near Kilbarchan. It is important to maintain the small trees and ensure the guards are still on and the grass isn’t encroaching on the trees. Therefore, we were pleased to work with volunteers from ENABLE who came out for two mornings to help clear the long grass and to check out the trees. ENABLE is a project that helps young people get into work. ENABLE organisers contacted the Chair of Kilbarchan Smile to see if there was an outdoor environmental project their participants could be involved with. We have been delighted with the collaboration and that 9 volunteers and 2 co-ordinators came along on the tree days.

n Autumn Walk...

Pollock Country Park

by Rona Simpson

Pollock Country Park in Autumn is a breathtaking sight. The magnificent mature woodlands bathed in late summer sun are a kaleidoscope of fire and gold. This would be reason enough to visit, but the clincher for me is the fact that a fascinating walk can be rounded off with a large slice of cake courtesy of the fabulous café at the newly reopened Burrell Collection. In 2007, the park was named Britain’s best park and in 2008 it claimed the title of best park in Europe. Here are my top five reasons why you should give it a visit.

1. Culture

Pollock Country Park is 146 hectares and located between Shawlands, Crossmaloof and Pollock – just outside Glasgow City Centre. Pollock Estate, as it was known, is the ancestral home of the Maxwell family for seven centuries. In 1966 the parkland was given to the people of Glasgow. It is home to two Museums, Pollock House and the internationally recognised Burrell Collection – which has recently been refurbished. There is also a play area for kids and many trails to explore.

2. History

There is a superb heritage trail running through the park which begins at Pollock House – A grade A listed Georgian mansion. It takes in many other features of the park including the elegant A-listed White Cart Bridge and the B-listed Courtyard, which is home to the Gardeners Bothy Museum which shows what life would have been like at the park at the turn of the 20th century. It houses many displays and hands on activities for all ages. Further on is the Sawmill and Weir. Close again to Pollock House is the Woodland Garden. John Stirling Maxwell funded plant exhibitions in the early 20th century. He was especially keen on Rhododendrons and bred many hybrid species at Pollock – some of which are on display here. The centrepiece of this garden is the heritage coppiced Beech tree – which is thought to be over 250 years old. The heritage trail takes about 2 hours to complete if you stop at each feature.

3. Walking and Cycling

The wide avenues of this park make it ideal for walkers and cyclists. You can reach the park by bike via the Route 7 or 75 of the National Cycle Network. There has been a real effort to reduce car traffic and cyclists are given priority access to all routes including Pollock Avenue. There is a bike rack at the Burrell collection and you can also hire bikes and ebikes from this area too.

4. Nature and Woodland

Fifty percent of the park is covered in woodland, which is a haven for wildlife and an important green lung for Glasgow. The North wood has existed since 1741 and is classified as ‘ancient’. Here you can find 200-year-old oak and beech alongside a variety of younger species. Throughout the park, planted by John Stirling Maxwell, there are also scatterings of more exotic species such as Norwegian Maple, Red and Turkey Oaks and Fern-leaved and Dawyck Beeches.

5. Glorious Cake! (I think I mentioned this before!)

The bright airy café of the Burrell Collection is the perfect place to unwind after all that walking or cycling!

2060 Pollokshaws Road, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT

(Photo by Gordon Brown, CC BY-SA 2.0)

Kil��������l�� Ho��t��������tu������ S��ci������

The Kilmacolm Flower Show enjoyed sunshine and heavy rain for its Show in September. The Kilmacolm community centre was filled with stunning flowers, vegetables, pot plants and hanging baskets, while the intricate floral art and the tempting baking were a pleasure to see. The children’s classes were highly commended by the judges and we owe a big thank you to the schools (and the children) for promoting the Pictures section. Huge thanks too for the many exhibitors, the members and visitors who braved the bad weather to see the Show and to the judges who gave their time and invaluable advice to the committee.

Prizegiving Kilmacolm Flower Show 2022

Patricia Briggs Best exhibit in Sweet Peas

Pamela Wilson Best exhibit in Herbaceous

Morven Armour Best exhibit in Roses

Catherine Smith Best exhibit in Hanging Baskets

Jill Russell Best exhibit in KHS Top Vase

Andy Aitken Best exhibit Onions, Best exhibit in Tomatoes

Jenny O’Rourke Most points in Sect 5 Homebaking

Ann Muir Most points in Sect 4 Novices

Harry Henderson Most points in Sect 7 Young Gardeners

Diane Henderson Most points in Sect 6 Floral Art

Ian Morrice Best exhibit in Fuchsias, Best exhibit Pot Plants, Most points in Sect 2 Pot plants

Derrick Russell Best exhibit in Chrysanthemum, Best exhibit in Gladioli, Most points in Annuals, Most points in Sect 1 Cut Flowers, Most points in Sect 3Vegetables.

Richard Mussenden Best exhibit in Dahlias, Most points in Dahlias, Most Meritorious exhibit in Flower Show.

The October lecture will be held on Wednesday 19th October at 7pm in The Community Centre, Kilmacolm Douglas Boatman, the Managing Director of Scotplants in Beith will present his talk on ‘ Well Behaved Plants giving riotous colour with controlled growth’. Scotplants are famous in the west of Scotland for their top quality extensive range of shrubs and trees. Tea/coffee served. Everyone welcome.

Cl����e ������r����i��l

Reg������a�� P��r��

In last month’s issue readers were made aware of the repairs being made to the Windy Hill path at Muirshiel Country Park. We have now completed the first layer of the path and are currently working on laying the second layer of wind dust. Again, we want to thank all the volunteers who have helped with the work and for the support regular walkers of the path have expressed! It’s looking great and well worth a visit if you haven’t been up for a while!

With the change of seasons, the wildflower meadow at our Johnshill field has now set seed. As part of our yearly maintenance of the field, we have been scything and removing the nutrient-rich organic matter from the meadow. Doing so prevents nutrients from being redeposited in the soil, which helps the wildflowers to grow back again even more successfully each year because they prefer poorer quality soils. In October we will also be scything the new meadow at the Lochwinnoch Annex which is currently in flower and showing great signs of success!

To get involved in the upkeep of our wildflower meadows, paths and more, we host an Adult Volunteering session every Thursday from 12.30pm –3.30pm. Tea and coffee provided. For details visit our website: www. clydemuirshiel.co.uk or call our rangers on 0300 3000 200 (option 1). We do kindly ask visitors to remember the Scottish Outdoor Access Code as we continue to deal with litter and damage from disposable BBQ’s and fire sites. Please remember to be respectful of other park users, the environment and to leave no trace. At this time of year, we would like to ask dog walkers to please keep their dogs on lead or under close control when near to farm animals, ground nesting birds and other sensitive wildlife.

Join

Facebook:

Bri������ ��f We���� ������l��a��k������

The BoWers have been busy over the last few weeks enjoying the weather and the fresh air.

We first trekked along part of the Cowal Way from Portavadie to Kames by Tighnabruaich.

The route goes over the hill via Millhouse, renowned in the past for making gunpowder. We started off at Loch Fyne and ended up by the Kyles of Bute.

Another hardy band ascended Ben Vane, a Corbett in the Trossachs on the Sunday walk and lastly, we took a cruise over the Clyde to Bute and did part of the West Island Way on a long walk undertaken after some heavy rain which meant we splashed and sloshed down the Glen More path on our way from Rhubodach to Ettrick Bay on a warm and sunny day.

The reward was the sun going down over Arran. Trips coming up include a last Munro, plus Meall Buidhe in Glen Lyon and a weekend in Ardnamurchan.

community,

business,

Rho��������n����on R������!

Soc��������

The Gardening Club will hold its AGM this month and after the formalities we will wind up the first season of our new format on a convivial note!

Rain in early September replenished trees and late-flowering plants and added moisture to ripening fruits. A spring photo of apple blossom (“Arthur Turner”) appeared earlier - and here’s what the blossoms produce in autumn! Once harvesting is over, gardeners should focus on winter preparations. This month, early flowering shrubs, e.g., Camellias, Azaleas and Rhododendrons will appreciate a weekly feed of fertiliser high in Potash. This will boost the nascent flower buds. A general feed of a slow-release, organic fertiliser, e.g., Fish, Blood & Bone, will boost other plants for the winter ahead. When planting bulbs, dig a hole and then gently place bulbs in the soil, 2.5 times deeper than the bulb, unless advised otherwise. Bulbs go in pointy-end upwards, but if unsure, place on their sides and they will rearrange themselves. Plant tulips last.

Last month’s meeting was a discussion and exchange of ideas which will be reflected in next year’s syllabus. The Gardening Club’s recent Garden Festival was held after our strange summer, so we were delighted to display a selection of cut flowers, herbaceous plants, fruit, vegetables, cacti, succulents and pot plants. The cacti fascinated the children as did the aptly named “Naughty Table”. Here we shared our less successful achievements - with ’blossom end rot’ causing some amusement! Outside we offered garden plants in exchange for small donations. This drew attention from passers-by who stopped to chat about their gardens or gardening problems, then went inside to see our display.

The Gardening Club will next meet in the Spring, but in the interim, “good gardening” – and follow us here for updates, or on Facebook or via our members’ e-letters.

By Rona Simpson of Stanley Wright

When you think of vandalism, you might conjure images of inner-city streets and graffiti, but it turns out that vandalism can be meted out in a peaceful woodland near the sleepy centre of Kilmacolm. Last month in Milton Wood (Duchal Woods to us locals) someone intentionally uprooted or chopped down 16 or more Rhododendron and Azalea shrubs which had been planted by owners, Lord and Lady Maclay. News of this quickly spread on social media. Having bumped into Lord Maclay in the woods one local walker explained on the community Facebook page that the owner was visibly distressed by what had happened.

What could be the reasons behind such destruction?

Rhododendron is a species of plant that causes much consternation in the forestry and ecology world. One variety in particular – Rhododendron Ponticum – has been blacklisted as an invasive non-native species. Forestry and Land Scotland call it “Scotland’s most threatening invasive non-native plant” (1). The reason being is that it spreads quickly, eventually shading out all other plants so that nothing grows underneath it – hindering biodiversity. Ponticum has also been linked to pathogens, the most well-known being Phytophthora – a disease that can easily spread to native tree species, such as oak, causing them to die. Forestry and Land Scotland estimated it would cost the Government £15.5million pounds to eradicate the plant from Scotland’s forests. (1).

BUT and it is a BIG BUT, not all species of Rhododendron are invasive, or likely to harbour pathogens. The species that Lord and Lady Maclay had planted had been carefully selected. They were non-invasive types – bought from a reputable garden centre where disease is very unlikely.

But why plant ornamentals in a Scottish woodland at all?

Rhododendrons were introduced to Britain in the 1700s and became a notable feature of Victorian stately gardens, such as those surrounding Duchal House. Milton Woods is part of the Duchal Estate. The first time this woodland appears on an OS map is in 1896. It was thought to have been planted in 1863 by the Shaw-Stewarts who owned the Estate at that time. The woodland is listed within Historic Environment Scotland’s inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes. Its historical value is graded as ‘outstanding’, and mention is made of historical ornamental planting within the estate having contributed to the value of this designed landscape. (2) Therefore, re-planting of such ornamentals along the avenue of the woods can be seen to be in keeping with the landscape values held in esteem by Historic Environment Scotland.

The management of Milton Woods looks progressive in many areas. Just north of the Fishery a native wood plantation is becoming established, which should become a haven for biodiversity. An area of conifers near the river is due to be clear felled and restocked with mixed, native broadleaves – species more in keeping with watercourses and riverside habitats. There seems to be a desire to enhance both the traditional landscape aesthetic and biodiversity. One person’s vandalism is another person’s dissent, but this of case Rhododendron rage does not serve a higher cause. Research and consultation would have been a better road to follow.

Stanley Wright advise on Land Management and Forestry.

1. Fraser P. Rhododendron control [Internet]. Forestry and Land Scotland. 2022 [cited 9 September 2022]. Available from: https:// forestryandland.gov.scot/what-wedo/biodiversity-and-conservation/ habitat-conservation/woodland/ rhododendron

2. Inverclyde Council. Gardens and Designed Landscapes Schedule [Internet]. 2018. Available from: https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk

sales & wants

ITEMS FOR SALE

CLOTHES & SHOES

Piper or drummer BandSpec• rain cape. Size xsmall. Brand new never worn due to covid. Cape only no hood. £35. Tel: 07814 408192 .

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN

John Lewis Bronze Curtain• Rail, extends to 9’ 6”, all rings and brackets included. £95. Tel: 01505 872813 .

ELECTRICAL & GAS

Brilliant Clothes Steamer, easy• to handle, cost £246 paper work available. Sell for £156. Tel: 01505 872813.

SPORTS

Mountain Bike (Python 26 inch• frame). Excellent condition paid £300, ideal for child 13-16. Sell for £60. Tel 07788 917365 .

WANTED ITEMS

Cash paid for Vinyl Records• and Music CDs (a few or a lot). Tel: 01505 329638 or 07765 115347.

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

Old records Wanted 45`s &

• LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 01505 873958 or 07710 777571.

FREE CYCLE

Selection of hardly used single• & double Duvets and always within covers from 4.5 - 13.5 tog. Tel: 01505 872592 .

Disabled Ramps, free to a• good home. Originally used for train to platform, suitable for transport. Tel: 07943 090799.

The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

Events next month

ACCORD Hospice Firewalk

Saturday 5th November from 6pm - 8pm ACCORD Hospice 7 Morton Avenue, Paisley PA2 7BW

St. Vincent’s Hospice Firewalk

Saturday 12th November 7pm Cochrane Castle Golf Club Scott Avenue, Johnstone PA5 0HF

Last Night OF THE Proms

Local Community Halls

BRIDGE OF WEIR

Freeland Church 01505 612 245

BROOKFIELD

Village Hall 01505 335 562

HOUSTON

Carrick Centre 01505 612 203 / 01505 331 488

Compass Centre 01505 615 441 / 01505 612 617

KILBARCHAN

Guide Centre 01505 702 758

Old Library Centre 01505 706 070

KILMACOLM

Cargill Centre 01505 873 994

Brownie/Guide Hut 07584 359 007

Masonic Hall 01505 873 059

Ladies Raleigh Caprice (Lilac)

• Bicycle with front basket. Excellent condition. 3 gears. £40. Tel: 01505 324439.

Gents Universal Epic Bicycle.• £25 ono. Tel: 01505 324439.

OTHER ITEMS

Pandora charm, married• couple - cost £45. With gift box. Perfect condition. £20 ono. Tel: 07814 408192.

Pandora charm heart with• box . £20 ono. Tel: 07814 408192 .

Saturday 19th November 6pm Paisley Salvation Army, Paisley Corps Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND

RMH Sports Dinner

Friday 18th November Marriot Hotel, Glasgow

a copy:

OF

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2320/ Check-your-bin-collection-day

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2159/ Roads-transport-and-parking

www.inverclyde.gov.uk/ council www.inverclyde.gov.uk/environment/ recycling-and-waste-services/when-aremy-bins-collected

www.inverclyde.gov.uk/environment/ roads-lighting

info@advertizer.co.uk 01505 613 340 advertizer.co.uk/delivery-feedback

business

WE ACCEPT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING

Advertising throughout publication

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:

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

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.

Editorial throughout publication

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

The Gryffe Advertizer is published by © The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd 2022

PROPERTY TO LET

CHILDCARE

Houston registered• childminders. For an informal chat to find your best childcare, call Helen Smith on 07952 390282

Kilmacolm/Quarriers• area registered childminders. P/time or F/time vacancies for u-5’s and after school. T: 01505 873839.

Run

ads directory by Category

Accountants & Financial

Affluent Financial

CLA Accountancy

Architectural Services

CHG Architecture

Grid Design Ltd

Art, Gifts & Flowers

Viano Interiors

Audio & Music Services

Mary Bridges - Play

Automotive Services

Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Bathrooms

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 5

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 11

Bedrooms

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8

Blacksmith & Metalwork

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 31

Building Services

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 10

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 4

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 10

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 21

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 4

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17

M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 3

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 15

Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 17

Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 17

Cleaning & PowerWash

Always Clean Windows . . . . . . . 3

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 25

Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 6

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 27

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Driveways

A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Education

Mary Bridges - Play Piano . . 28

Electricians

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

MAS Electrical & Security . . 10

Russell Milne Electrician . . 6

Entertainment

G Local Musical Theatre School . . 5

Fencing

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 31

Firewood & Logs

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Funeral Services

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 23

John Roach Funeral . . . . . . . . . 3

Garage Doors & Gates

Garolla Holdings Limited . . . 9

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Garden Service & Design

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38

Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 38

Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 25

Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 36

Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 38

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 10

J Andrews Garden Maintenance . . 36

Lady Grafters Garden . . . . . . . 38

R Williams Tree Services . . . 36

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Gas & Heating Services

C Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12

Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 9

Wright Gas - Scotland Ltd . . 31

Glazier

1on1 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 21

Hairdressers & Barbers

Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 8

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Kilmacolm Physiotherapy Clinic . . 21

LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Home Hardware

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Home Improvements

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 38

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 38

CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 25

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 11

Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 23

Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Renfrewshire Handyman . . . . . . 3

Home Interiors

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8

Home Security

Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Joiners

CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 6

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 21

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 4

M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 3

McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 27

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 15

Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 17

Kitchens

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 5

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 8

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 11

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 4

Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 17

Leisure & Recreation

G Local Musical Theatre School . . 5

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Locksmiths

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Eckory Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 15

Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Painters & Decorators

A Gallagher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Andrew Hay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

James Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Pest Control

RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 3

Plasterers

Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 12

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 21

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17

Plumbers

C Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12

Pool, Hot Tub & Spa

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Property, Sales & Let

Cochran Dickie . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk

Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Kingsley Wood & Co . . . . . . . . . 15

Removals

At@ease Removals . . . . . . . . . . 8

Retail

Andersons Jewellery . . . . . . . . 31

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Swanieston Farm Shop . . . . . . . 3

Viano Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Roofing

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 10

Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 12

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 4

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 10

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 15

Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 17

Solicitors

Kingsley Wood & Co . . . . . . . . . 15

Special Occasions

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Taxis

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Tiling

Gordon James Ceramic . . . . . . . 14

Tree Surgeon

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 38

Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 36

R Williams Tree Services . . . 36

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 38

TV & Satellite

Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 23

Upholstery Services

Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 6

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 27

Window Cleaners

Always Clean Windows . . . . . . . 3

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 25

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 27

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 19

Matthews Cleaning Services . . 25

Window, Consv & Repair

1on1 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 21

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers.

The Gryffe Advertizer takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.

© The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd 2022