330 November 2022 - Gryffe Advertizer

Gryffe Advertizer

responsibility

Gryffe Advertizer

This Month

Dare I mention the “C” word yet? It feels like Autumn has barely even begun and yet here we are with our November magazine!

As the nights are drawing in and the mornings are getting darker, remember that clocks are set to turn back one hour on Sunday 30th October. We’re fortunate that most devices update the time change automatically now, but it’s always best to check that your alarm will go off at the correct time!

Month’s

Advertising in this 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: The placing by the Advertising• Client of an Advertisement is deemed to be acceptance of Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising.

Our cover image this month is of the Kilmacolm War Memorial, located just outside the village on Lochwinnoch Road. It’s a beautiful spot for reflection. Remembrance Sunday is the 13th November this year across the United Kingdom and there will be local services within the villages as well.

The bonfire won’t be going ahead at the Knapps this year, but there are other organised fireworks events locally throughout Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

We have a great line-up of festive events on the horizon and some of our advertisers are already promoting their Christmas selections. We hope to have details of the local

switch-on events soon.

November!

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 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

by Rona McGinn

Wha��

Civ���� ������s��?

Many folk do not know what the Kilmacolm Civic Trust is, or what we do. This article may help you to understand us. The Kilmacolm Civic Trust is a Scottish Charity formed in JANUARY 1969.

We exist to: (1) Stimulate public interest in and care for the beauty, history and character of the parish of Kilmacolm, its villages and their surroundings. (2) Encourage the preservation, development and improvement of features of general public amenity or historic interest. (3) Encourage high standards of Architecture and Town Planning in and around Kilmacolm.

We have approximately 300 members.

A large part of our work is interacting with Inverclyde Council on planning matters.

We review and comment on every planning application: In 2001 we considered 88 applications. We made formal objections on 3 of them. We made no objections on the remainder, but did make constructive comments on a small number.

We have campaigned vigorously to protect the Greenbelt around the village from developers, who have proposed in excess of 400 houses in recent years.

We are much more than Planning Activists though. We run a series of heritage projects, current ones are:

• Oral histories: in which we record the memories of our senior citizens. We now have almost 30 available for viewing on-line on the Kilmacolm Civic Trust Website. If you are interested in sharing your memories please contact Nicol Cameron (KCT Chairman – email: chairman@ kilmacolmcivictrust.org )

• Digitising our extensive archives: Over 8000 items have been digitised so far and the results will shortly be available to view on-line via our website www.kilmacolmcivictrust.org

• ‘Digital Tours’ of the villages. We are creating audio/visual conducted tours of buildings of significant architectural interest in Kilmacolm and hope to have these available for viewing via our website this winter.

If you have an interest in the architecture, history and general physical structure of the village we would love to hear from you. To contact us you should contact Douglas Robin (KCT Secretary –email: secty@kilmacolmcivictrust.org)

Er����ine Writer��

Erskine Writers is an active group that has been established for over 30 years. We have writers from all walks of life, and at various stages in their writing careers, from well established authors to those members new to the art of writing.

The group meets weekly from September through to May at Bargarran Community Centre. The members are encouraged to bring work they have written each week, whether it prose, poetry, scripts to plays, bringing together friendship and support that encourages the group in their writing.

A full syllabus is set for the year. This will include invited guests (established authors) who deliver workshops setting themes to the group to write. The guest speakers will adjudicate the work sent to them and then award placings which certainly brings out the competitive spirit of our members.

The group is affiliated to Scottish Association of Writers. Members can attend the yearly conference where they will meet like-minded people and hear from excellent guest speakers who have invaluable information

11t�� Ers��i��e Wal�� o�� Hope ��or Scottis�� Hu��tin��ton’s A��sociatio��

On Saturday 8th October Margaret Moncrieff and friends did a sponsored Walk of Hope along the banks of the Clyde at Erskine to increase awareness of Huntington’s disease and to raise funds for Scottish Huntington’s Association (SHA).

SHA is the only Scottish charity dedicated to helping people affected by Huntington’s disease (HD). HD is a desperately cruel condition which over a period of perhaps as long as 25 years reduces an adult to a state of total dependence for emotional and physical support. Other members of the family may have to accept that this is a genetic condition and every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 risk of inheriting the faulty gene and therefore developing the condition. We were lucky with the weather and enjoyed the Walk. We were joined by friends from Houston, Erskine, Bishopton and Wales. The amazing sum of £1,255 has been raised to date.

Thanks are due to members of Houston & Killellan Kirk, staff and partners of Walker Laird, Solicitors, friends from Erskine and surrounding areas and our families. Very many thanks to all who contributed. Donations can still be made to the following JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/margaret-moncrieff12

that they will share with the attendees. There are many competitions that writers can enter which will be judged and critiques fed back to members.

At the end of the year we hold a Garden Party to issue certificates and trophies to our winners from the competitions set by the guest speakers. The group are always encouraging new members to come and join us. It may seem a little daunting, but from my own experience I have found it very rewarding, encouraging and welcoming.

We can be contacted at erskine.writers@gmail.com. The group also has a web page where readers can find our syllabus and weekly updates on what’s been happening at our meetings: http://erskinewriters-uk. blogspot.com

Look forward to hearing from any aspiring writers who are out there!!

R���� Sports Din��er

Friday 18th November

The Marriot Hotel, Glasgow

We’re delighted and excited to inform you that the Ronald McDonald Sports Dinner is back - bigger and better than before.

Amazing guest’s speakers this year include Kris Boyd, Stiliyan Petrov, Mark Guidi and our host for the evening, comedian Des Clark.

Tickets £75 per person. To buy yours call: 0141 201 1900 or email: fundraising@ronaldmcdonaldhouse.co.uk or scan the QR code.

Reserve your table at this star-studded sports event!!

local community, local business,

Image courtesy of Lorna Jackson

Quarriers Kilmacolm Christmas Fayre

Santa’s coming to Kilmacolm… are you?

Bring the family and join the festive fun with Santa at the Quarriers Christmas Fayre on Saturday 19th November at Kilmacolm Community Centre, from 10am – 3pm. There’s something for everyone, old and young, and Santa’s elves have been very busy organising lots of exciting stalls to browse and refreshments to enjoy on the day while listening to performances by the Bridge of Weir Primary School Choir and Angel Voices local children’s choir.

It’s the perfect place to buy Christmas gifts as there are more than 20 stalls ready to help you find that unique present, as well as the chance to win some stunning prizes in the raffle and tombola. Browse the stalls selling chocolates, soaps, candles, cakes, jewellery, Christmas cocktails, textiles, prints, cards, gin… and much more. And while you shop, your little ones can have their faces painted and meet Santa.

Make your own Christmas Wreath

To create something truly personal, book yourself onto the Festive Wreath Making Classes happening throughout the day. There are two classes, 10.30am and 1pm, and you must pre-book your place with Rustic Wreaths at flowers@4thgroup.co.uk Classes cost £40, and Rustic Wreaths will donate £5 per person to Quarriers charity.

For any further details contact: karen.carruth@quarriers.org.uk

Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group’s Pantomime - 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/jptgcinder

Saturday 5th November

6pm - 8pm

Brave the heat, bare your soles and raise money for ACCORD Hospice by taking part in our fire walk for the patients and families of Renfrewshire who need our care. The event is being ran by leading Firewalk experts – Firewalk Scotland! This adrenaline fuelled event will push your boundaries, challenge your perceptions and make for an unforgettable evening. Entertainment on the evening will be provided!

ACCORD Hospice, 7 Morton Avenue, Paisley PA2 7BW

Prom��

Saturday

By

Tickets

£8,

Gr��ffe ��alle�� Rotar�� Club

Speakers

October speakers were Lynsey Scobie from Quarriers on 5th October, another entertaining talk on “Behind the Scenes” by Alan Watt 12th October and on 19th October Monsignor Andrew Canon McFadden spoke about his life and service as the senior Royal Navy Chaplain and Royal Chaplain to the late Queen. November Speakers include Gaynor Miller from Rainbow Valley Charity.

If interested in Rotary please come along and find out who we are and what we do e-mail gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com to arrange your attendance.

Musical Lunch

This was fully subscribed on Sunday 2nd October and over £2,000 was raised for 500 miles, - the charity run by Olivia Giles to provide prosthetic limbs to disabled people in Malawi and Zambia. Thanks to all who helped and donated raffles and a special thanks to St Columbas School and to all the performers.

Curry Night

The annual curry night in Shimla Cottage Bridge of Weir to raise funds for Rotarys Charity Polio Plus is taking place on Thursday evening 10th November and tickets are available

Quiz Night Champions

Rotarian from across the west of Scotland supported a charity Quiz night organised by Hunterston Rotary, raising funds for the End Polio Now campaign and local Ayrshire community groups.

The winning team from Gryffe Valley Rotary Club were presented with the Hunterston Quaich by President FitzGibbon who congratulated them on a “well-earned victory”.

Gryffe Valley Way

We are interested to hear from the first people who have walked the full length of the Gryffe Valley Way

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

willing

sponsor a board are invited to get in touch. Please email gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com

Saturday

Castle Golf

ScottAve,JohnstonePA50HF

North ��ole Ex��erien��e & Christmas Imagi��arium

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th December

North Pole Experience: 11.30am - 7.30pm Christmas Imaginarium: 11am - 5pm Coats Paisley, High Street, Paisley PA1 2BA

Welcome to the North Pole - you are greeted by your Imaginarium Tour guide character, who will escort you on a two hour journey through Imagination. Situated in the former grand chapel of the Gothic Coats Memorial Building we will play host to a stunning market full of beautiful goods to indulge. Live entertainment, carol singers and performances throughout the day.

Meet and Greet with Nutmeg our Baker elf, hear jokes from Sparky the Reindeer trainer of the North Pole (No reindeer present at the experience), dance along with our Elves, sing your heart out!

Johnstone Chri��tma�� Li��hts

Swit��h On

Saturday 3rd December

Time to be confirmed Houston Square in Johnstone will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland as the town switches on its beautiful lights officially marking the start of the festive season. Free event

Stri��tly Come ��ra��cin�� 2022

Playtime with our elves and an exclusive area for our little baby guests. After your Elf Experience you will meet the Wonderful Mrs Claus before embarking off on an adventure to post that all important letter to Santa. You can bring your own or make your own on the experience.

Our magical North Pole delivery service is top secret, never before been told!

Our Santa’s Grotto and North Pole Experience MUST be booked separately and in advance.

Child Admission £26.50 (First adult on your booking goes free), Infant - 0-12 months £10, Adult £8

Friday 16th September saw a glitzy glamorous event in the beautiful Grand Marquee at Ingliston Hotel & Country Club, Bishopton where 8 couples danced to compete for the 2022 glitterball trophies whilst entertaining 400 guests.

This event was the tenth Strictly Come Prancing organised by St. Vincent’s Hospice which is an evening based on the BBC TV series, with their very own hosts, specifically chosen judges and of course the “prancers” who worked very hard over the last few months to perfect their routines.

The worthy winners were Cath McCallum & Frank McGourlick who danced the very energetic Jive to “I Love To Boogie”, congratulations to them!

Also entertaining the guests was Lochwinnoch musician “Archie”, followed by one of our judges Curtis Campbell who provided vocals as the “Strictly Pros” danced a routine to a Michael Buble medley.

The evening brought in a fantastic £41,050.63, which enables St. Vincent’s Hospice to continue to offer invaluable care to patients living with life shortening illnesses and their families.

Huge thanks to everyone involved, including our headline sponsor Taylor Wimpey.

Preparations for Strictly Come Prancing 2023 are already underway - would you like to take to the stage to compete for the glitterball trophy?

Please contact Lesley on 01505 705635 ext 403 or email events@ svh.co.uk

Viennese

Wednesday 30th November - Doors 6.45pm / Starts 7.30pm Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JG

Tickets from £24 + booking fee

Tchaikovsky’s elegant Nutcracker Suite leads on from Brahms’ serious Hungarian Dance No.5, before Strauss II introduces us to the boundless exuberance of the Polish March in his Trisch-Trasch Polka. In the concert’s penultimate work Tchaikovsky transports the evening to the magical halls of snowy Tsarist Russia with a regal waltz from his ballet Sleeping Beauty. The evening reaches its climax with the famous Blue Danube Waltz, not only proving the crowning jewel of a fabulous night’s worth of music, but the coronation of Johann Strauss II as the master of the Viennese waltz.

The UK based chamber orchestra, London Concertante, regularly perform up to and over one hundred concerts per year, making it the busiest ensemble of its kind in the country. Regularly selling out venues such as St. Martin-in-the-Fields and Southwark Cathedral, the ensemble performs in some of the most prestigious venues around Britain and abroad, with recent tours taking them to USA, Finland, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Spain and France. With their numerous recordings reaching great critical acclaim, the ensemble is continually regarded as one of the finest groups in Europe since their founding in 1991.

If you don’t consider yourself ‘in the know’ about Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach, fear not, this is the orchestra for you. The London Concertante boasts an impressive audience record in which an impressive 50% of spectators are first time classical concert goers! The London Concertante has its audience laughing at jokes, gasping at virtuosity, moved by gorgeous string playing and leaving with a smile on their faces.

History Spot

Finlayson, Bousfield & Co. and The Linen Thread Company (1898-1968)

The Linen Thread Company was founded in 1898. It was an amalgamation of like-minded, successful linen thread manufacturers with mills in Scotland, Northern Ireland and USA. Finlayson, Bousfield & Co. was a founding member and William, Archibald and James Finlayson (the three sons of James Finlayson, who established Finlayson Bousfield in 1844) were appointed to its first Board of Directors. The other founding members were the Finlaysons’ Flax Spinning Mill in North Grafton, Massachusetts; W. J. Knox Ltd of Kilbirnie, Ayrshire; Wm. Barbour & Sons Ltd., Hilden Mill, Lisburn; Barbour Flax Spinning Co., Patterson, New Jersey; Barbour Brothers of New York and Marshall Thread Co. of Newark, New Jersey. They were soon joined by seven other flax companies from Britain, Ireland and USA, including Crawford Brothers of Beith, Ayrshire.

The Linen Thread Company grew and expanded into a huge international concern, with mills in Europe, Australia and South America. Its Board of Directors insisted on the use of high quality flax, opened scientific laboratories to ensure quality and innovation, and established a very productive and unrivalled world-wide sales organization through local agents. Throughout its existence, successive members of the Finlayson family from Johnstone, the Knox family from Kilbirnie and the Barbour family from Lisburn (the Barbours were descendants of the Kilbarchan Barbour linen merchants) were on the Board of Directors. The dedication and entrepreneurial skills of the directors ensured the success of the company and was of significant advantage

to the financial success of each independent member company. The UK head office was in Glasgow.

To manufacture quality thread, it was deemed essential to start with quality raw flax plants. In Finlayson Bousfield’s Johnstone mills quality raw flax was purchased from the Courtrai district in Belgium or from Ireland. It is likely that the ponds on the north bank of the Black Cart (shown on OS Maps, Renfrewshire XI.8, 2nd ed., 1897 and later) were used as the retting ponds, although in some other of the Linen Thread Co’s flax mills, the soaking of raw flax was undertaken indoors. The flax was then taken to the drying room before the next processing stages of heckling and scutching, were undertaken by machine indoors. The processed flax was then ready to be sent to the spinning mill. The Finlayson Mill in North Grafton, USA, operated only as a spinning mill of already processed flax.

In Johnstone, Finlayson Bousfield manufactured a wide variety of quality threads and cords, including hand and sewing machine threads, saddler’s threads, bookbinder’s threads, carpet thread, crochet thread, flourishing thread (for embroidery), glove thread, lace thread and shoe thread. Samples of their finished products can be viewed locally in Johnstone Museum.

But all was not always plain sailing. In February 1902 at one o’clock on a Wednesday morning, a dramatic fire broke out in the company’s Napier Street Mill, which contained a large stock of finished thread ready for the market.

At one end of the 200 feet long building, the fire burnt through the floor of the second storey and machinery fell into the burning mass below. Luckily manufacturing was unaffected as the building was primarily used for storage and, due to a prudent insurance, the building could be repaired.

Despite this setback, Finlayson Bousfield continued to flourish for another 50 years. William’s son, Charles Kay Finlayson joined the company in the early 1900s and played an active part. His sons, too, joined the company. William was Head Sales Director and Charles was Head Manufacturing Director of the Linen Thread Co. in the 1950s.

Although flax was the strongest natural fibre in the world, linen production declined in the 1950s when man-made fibres were introduced to the market. Both Finlayson Bousfield and The Linen Thread company ceased trading in the next decade and the main flax mill site was later demolished.

Finlayson Bousfield’s main Flax Mill site in Johnstone

© 2022, Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Forum

Johnstone History Society

Our November meeting is on Tuesday 8th November at 7.30pm. This month our speaker Dr Lizanne Henderson, senior lecturer in History at Glasgow university. Her subject will be “Witch Beliefs and Animals in Early Modern Scotland, An (UN) Natural History”... the title suggests it will be an interesting talk. We look forward to a good attendance of members and visitors and all will be made very welcome. Our October meeting was very well attended and was really enjoyed by everyone. Anne Pitcher told us some very old stories related to Kilbarchan. The Museum continues to open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. We still have many books, maps and pamphlets for sale and as we now have a card machine which is useful as many people now don’t carry a lot of cash. On Friday 30th September we had our 50,000th visitor we plan to mark this in the near future

OneRen’s ��esti��e Wi��ter Programme

Family theatre performances, Christmas movie screenings, festive parties and opportunities to work up a sweat, or even make a splash, are some of the fun-filled events revealed in OneRen’s Winter Programme.

The programme which will be rolled out across the charitable trust’s venues is designed to be open to all, with a mixture of free, low-cost and tiered price points where people attending can pay what they can - in recognition of the financial challenges faced by many this winter.

OneRen’s venues will also provide a warm welcome for anyone who is looking to avoid some of the stresses that can come with the festive period, providing highquality spaces where you can do as much, or as little, as you want.

Highlights from the programme include Hibernate a fantastic theatre performance that allows family audiences to coorie in for a wintry tale about an old mouse whose plans to create a snug place for a warm winter nap are thrown into disarray by a rambunctious squirrel. The show will be on at Renfrew Town Hall and is brought to audiences by ‘Tortoise in a Nutshell’ (is very timely), with themes about re-emerging into the world and discovering relationships you didn’t know you needed.

Our Mini Manoeuvres activity events at the Lagoon loves Christmas and you can expect a festive extravaganza with dancers, hula hoopers, festive crafts, eco glitter & tattoo bar and a Christmas tree will be on the loose. Across our libraries there will be free, festive themed arts and crafts sessions, where you can make your own decorations or block print Santa sacks and even festival tea towels – perfect for those personalised gifts.

OneRen’s public spaces are open to everyone - whether you want to browse for a book in our libraries, or you’re looking to get more fit and active at our leisure facilities. If you just want a space to relax, at the Lagoon Leisure Centre, the ON-X in Linwood, Johnstone Town Hall and Renfrew Town Hall, you can come in and simply use the space to use our free Wi-Fi to connect, or use a laptop or mobile device to work or catch up on your socials. At the Lagoon and On-X, you can also make use of the on-site café and enjoy a cake and a cup of tea while you get comfortable. All of our libraries – and there are 12 in communities right across Renfrewshire – provide more than just the opportunity to read (although you can do that too!) There you can access free Wi-Fi and use our PCs for free. There are also fun activity programmes for children, young people and adults, all of which can keep you occupied during the winter months. Whatever your plans, you will always be assured of a warm smile and fantastic welcome across our community venues. The full programme can be found at: www.oneren.org/winter

Vival��i’s Four ��eason�� By ��andlelight

Sunday 18th December - Doors 6.45pm / Starts 7.30pm

Paisley Abbey Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JG UK based chamber orchestra the London Concertante regularly performs up to and over one hundred concerts per year, making it the busiest ensemble of its kind in the country. With their numerous recordings reaching great critical acclaim, the ensemble is continually regarded as one of the finest groups in Europe since its founding in 1991. Don’t miss this breathtaking performance - get your tickets now for Vivaldi’s Four Seasons by Candlelight at Paisley Abbey!

Expert Gutter Cleaning

Paisley Ab��ey Lunch Hour ��on��erts

Throughout the year Paisley Abbey hosts a varied programme of Lunch Hour Concerts by local musicians, singers and choral groups. Tickets £5, available at the door.

Saturday 26th November at 12.30pm - Scottish Clarinet Choir

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

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JG

coming events

events in

late October

UNTIL FRIDAY 28 TH

Halloween Scavenger Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

SATURDAY 22 ND - SUNDAY 23 RD

RSPB Pumpkin Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

SATURDAY 29 TH

Houston AND Killellan Kirk Chicken Drive

West Halls, Main Street, Houston (next to Carrick Centre & Village Hall)

6.30pm

Halloween Disco

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

7pm to 11.30pm

Paisley Farmers Market

The Paisley Centre

10am to 2pm

Textile Workshop - Print AND Stitch

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston

10am to 4pm

Duchal Nursery School

Open Morning

Duchal Nursery SchoolKilmacolm

10am to 12noon

SUNDAY 30 TH

Erskine Riverside Market

Riverside Market Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine PA8 7AF

10am to 4pm

Classics at Castle Semple Car Show

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch

11am to 3pm

MONDAY 31 ST

Kilmacolm Writers

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm

10am to 12noon

November

UNTIL SATURDAY 5 TH NOV

Bishopton Art Group Art Exhibition

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Free event

Monday - Saturday 10am – 12noon and Mondays only 2pm – 5pm; (Sunday closed) A selection of paintings available to buy.

UNTIL SATURDAY 26 TH NOV

The Big Art Show

The Art Department, 2 - 10 Causeyside St, Paisley PA1 1UQ.

10am to 4pm

With almost 1,000 artworks in the exhibition with lots of exciting work to see from all ages and experiences, a truly open, inclusive, positive showcase and the largest exhibition of its kind in many years.

TUESDAY 1 ST

Houston AND Killellan Kirk Foodbank

West Halls, Main Street, Houston (next to Carrick Centre)

10am - 12noon & 7pm - 8pm

Every Tuesday in November with donations going to Renfrewshire Foodbank, Renfrew. Tuesday 15th - there is a collection for Erskine Hospital & SSAFA.

TUESDAY 1 ST - WEDNESDAY 30 TH

Autumn Super Spotter Scavenger Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

Collect your goodie bag and take part in this fun challenge for kids of all ages! Cost: £3 plus normal entry fees for non-members

THURSDAY 3 RD - THURSDAY 17 TH

South Street Painting AND Photography Exhibition

Fox & Hounds, Main Street, Houston

Featuring photographic prints, original architectural paintings on glass, and a calendar of seasonal shots of Houston. Opening Night November 3rd, 6pm - 9pm

THURSDAY 3 RD

Kilmacolm Old Kirk Outlook Team

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

2pm to 3.30pm

Cookery Indian Style with Indu Mani - a practical demonstration and tips for spices. A delicious afternoon tea is provided by the volunteer team.

SATURDAY 5 TH

Fireworks display

The Battery Park, Eldon Street, Greenock PA16 7QG

5pm

This year’s display will be set to a score of contemporary pop music from the last year. The fireworks will start at 7pm but there will be food stalls and entertainment, including fairground rides, from 5pm.

ACCORD Firewalk

Accord Hospice, 7 Morton Avenue, Paisley, PA2 7BW

6pm to 8pm

Bare your soles and raise money for ACCORD Hospice by taking part in our fire walk for the patients and families of Renfrewshire who need our care. The event is organised by leading Firewalk experts – Firewalk Scotland!

Lochwinnoch Arts FestivalCraft Fair

McKillop Hall, Main Street, Lochwinnoch

12noon to 3pm Free entry

Many types of art work, sewing and knitting, candles and melts, a variety of jewellery, stained glass and more. Enjoy a cuppa too!

MONDAY 7 TH - FRIDAY 11 TH

St Columba’s School Open Week

St Columba’s School, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm

With a huge range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities available, there’s something for everyone at St. Columba’s Register online or enquire further: stcolumbas.org/admissions/visit-us

TUESDAY 8 TH

Howwood Wildlife AND Woodlands AGM

Howwood Village Hall, Howwood, PA9 1BB

7.30pm

Anyone wishing to find out more about volunteering for HWW will be made very welcome.

WEDNESDAY 9 TH

Advertizer Issue Deadline

The Advertizer - Neva Place, Bridge of Weir

If you would like anything published in our next issue, please email: info@advertizer.co.uk or call the office on 01505 613340. Don’t miss out!

WEDNESDAY 9 TH - SATURDAY 12 TH

Shrek the Musical

Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock

7.30pm

Greenock Light Opera Club (GLOC) presents Shrek the Musical. Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £16 - £20, please check our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/greenockloc/ photos/

THURSDAY 10 TH

Houston AND 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 24th.

Sòlas Bereavement Group

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

2pm

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

FRIDAY 11 TH

Film Show

Calder Church, Church Street, Lochwinnoch PA12

4AE

2pm to 4pm

The Lochwinnoch Dementia Friendly group aims to reach people with Dementia, their carers or family. For more information contact 07868 752814.

SATURDAY 12 TH

St Vincent’s Hospice red hot Firewalk

Cochrane Castle Golf Club, Scott Avenue, Johnstone

7pm

Join St. Vincent’s Hospice for their hottest ever fundraising event! Take part by contacting info@ svh.co.uk or register at the bar in Cochrane Castle Golf Course. £10

Textile WorkshopPrint AND Stitch Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston

10am to 4pm

Taking inspiration from the natural world, this weekend workshop will explore the method of creating your own individual and unique fabrics through Collagraph Printing! Call: 07775 665771. £120.

Rowan Leslie AND Lauren Collier - Scotland on Tour

Lochwinnoch Golf Club Burnfoot Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4AN

7pm

You’ll be blown away by Rowan’s passion and talent for Irish Music. Lauren is a traditional fiddle player based in Glasgow. Tickets £12 available from Now and Then Gifts or online at: www.scotlandontour.com scotlandontour.com/venue/ lochwinnoch-golf-club/ www. lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

SUNDAY 13 TH

Guided Wildlife Walk

RSPB,Largs Road,Lochwinnoch 10am to 12noon

Our warden will take you around the reserve and point out the interesting wildlife to be found here. They will also tell you about the current and future management of the reserve because conservation involves much more than just leaving things alone! Stout footwear and clothing suitable for the Scottish outdoors are strongly recommended. £5 - £12.50.

THURSDAY 17 TH

Kilmacolm Old Kirk Outlook Team

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm

2pm to 3.30pm

Bill McKean on violin and piano. Come and enjoy some traditional Scottish tunes and sing-a-longs as well as poems from the talented musician. A delicious afternoon tea is provided by the volunteer team.

Kilmacolm Old Kirk Movie Night

The Old Kirk, 40 High Street, Kilmacolm

7pm for 7.30pm

We’re showing the hilarious musical Hairspray starring John Travolta. Free entry and open to all. Glass of wine on admission. Donations welcome.

FRIDAY 18 TH

Langbank Church’s Christmas Shopping Night

Langbank Parish Church, Main Road, Langbank

7.30pm

With a varied selection of stalls including Glass by Steven & Daisy, Beganasatree by PJM Woodcrafts, jewellery, calendars and cards, Christmas crafts and decorations, jams & chutneys, tombola and others. Refreshment and nibbles, admission includes a free raffle ticket for a Christmas hamper. £2.

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.

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.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SUNDAY 20 TH

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Mini Exhibition

Meet the Artist

12noon

Early Bird Christmas Craft Fayre

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan 1pm to 4pm

Gorgeous gifts and crafts including Nicole McCarron’s silver jewellery, Threepwood fayre, All things nice and Kilbarchan Soaps and many more. £3 under 12’s free.

THURSDAY 24 TH - SATURDAY 26 TH

4pm

SATURDAY 19 TH

Quarriers Kilmacolm

Fayre

Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm

The perfect place to buy Christmas

with more than 20 stalls

to help you find that unique present, as well as the chance to win some stunning prizes in the raffle and tombola. And while you shop, your little ones can have their faces painted and meet Santa. For further details contact: karen. carruth@quarriers.org.uk

Bearsden Fiddlers

West Halls, Main Street, Houston PA6 7EL

to Carrick Centre & Village Hall)

Pop along for a fantastic night of music. Tickets £5.

Last Night of the Proms Paisley Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1ND

6pm

By popular demand! Sold out every year, this will again be a spectacular event with special guest musicians, vocalists and Proms Band - Andrew Wileman (compere), David Daws, John Starkes & Ross Mercer... Plenty flag waving and audience participation! Charity event in aid of The Salvation Army work in Paisley. £5 & £8.

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society’s ‘King Arthur’

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm

7.30pm to 9.30pm (doors 7pm)

Tickets now on sale online from kilmacolmdramaticsociety.co.uk or from Ticketsource. For any queries please contact Mandy Robinson on 07719 309960 or Rosie Thirde on 01505 873088. Saturday Matinee from 2.30pm to 4.30pm (doors at 2pm). £12 (children £8).

Friday 25 th

Houston Christmas Light Switch on

Main Street, Houston Come along and get into the festive spirit!

Houston AND Killellan Agricultural Society Quiz Night

Houston Bowling Club

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

FRIDAY 25 TH - SUNDAY 4 TH DEC

Outdoor Art AND Craft Market

Fox & Hounds, Main St, Houston A great variety of goods on offer, free entry, dog friendly, hot food and drinks in the beer garden. Light Switch on Friday 25th12noon - 8pm, Saturday 26th 11am - 4pm, Saturday 3rd - 11am - 4pm, Sunday 4th - 11am - 3pm Follow us @ArtOnScotland e: artonscotland@gmail.com

Sound Bath

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10.30am to 11.30am

Rest, reset and restore in a deeply immersive full body listening experience that invites gentle therapeutic and restorative sounds and vibrations to nurture your mind and body. For tickets visit: www.thesonicden.com

Annual Christmas Fayre AND Coffee Morning

Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley

10am to 3pm

With various stalls, home baking, silent auction, tea room, toy stalls, gifts, decorations and much more! £1 donation entry... Merry Christmas! Tables Availablecontact Lindsay McGregor 07557 819173 (setup from 9am)

Houston AND Killellan Kirk Guild Christmas Market

West Halls, Main Street, Houston PA6 7EL

(next to Carrick Centre & Village Hall) 10.30am to 1pm

Our stalls include - Baking, Preserves, Toiletries, Crafts Stall, Tombola, Lucky Bags, Children’s Gifts, 2 Luxury Hampers in our Prize draw, Raffles, Competitions, and many more for you to browse.

SATURDAY 26 TH - SUNDAY 27 TH

Christmas pop up

The Corner House, Elmbank Road Langbank Port Glasgow PA14 6YT

10am to 6pm

Little Luxuries Scotland is delighted to invite you to our Christmas Event. Pop along enjoy a browse with some drink and nibbles! www. littleluxscot.etsy.com or Facebook: @littleluxuriesscot or Instagram: little_lux_scotland

SATURDAY 26TH - SATURDAY 3RD DEC

Cinderella

Johnstone Town Hall, Johnstone

7.30pm and Matinee 2pm

The classic rags to riches tale in a pantomime suitable for all the family. Tickets available at www. seaty.co.uk/jptgcinders From £12

Johnstone Christmas Market

Walkinshaw Community Centre, Walkinshaw Street, Johnstone PA5 8AF

10am to 4pm

Featuring a range of arts, crafts, home baking and one-off gifts! This is a free event.

50:50 PROMS

Langbank Parish Church, Main Road, Langbank 2.30pm

Arcara Recorders are bringing the warmth & sunshine of Africa with modern ballads, blues and riffs alongside more ancient dances. £5 donation at the door.

Spring Forward~ Fall Back!

Remember clocks go back on Sunday 30th October.

Viennese Christmas Spectacular By Candlelight

Paisley Abbey, Abbey Close, Paisley

7.30pm

Tchaikovsky transports the evening to the magical halls of snowy Tsarist Russia with a regal waltz from his ballet Sleeping Beauty. Tickets from £24.

December events in

THURSDAY 1ST - SATURDAY 24TH

Santa’s Missing Reindeer

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch

Find all the reindeer and complete the wish list for presents and we’ll give you a special reward for completing it! Available daily while the visitor centre is open. From £3.

St ��i������n��’s La������h����

The festive season is a time to enjoy precious moments with family and friends. It is also a time when we remember those who are no longer with us. At St Vincent’s Hospice, we understand these months can be difficult and that’s why we’d like to invite you to remember your loved one with Light up a Life, which provides an opportunity to reflect and remember during the festive period.

This year will see a return of the event in the hospice grounds, on Sunday 4th December at 5pm. A candle lit procession will leave from Corseford School car park at 4.45pm. The event will feature carols and readings, as well as the chance to be with others whilst enjoying a hot drink and some food.

You can dedicate a light on our beautiful hospice tree by visiting www. svh.co.uk or calling 01505 705635. Thousands of lights will shine brightly, each on in honour of a loved one, throughout the festive season.

Ailsa’s Salon Relocation

As you know, we sadly lost Alastair very suddenly during lockdown and without his help and support, I have made the very difficult decision to close the salon and relocate to my ‘Home & Mobile Hairdresser & Barbers’ where I will continue to provide the same service.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support through the sudden loss of my beautiful daughter, Jayne, 14 years ago to Leukaemia. Without everyone’s kindness and continued patience I could not have gotten through my grief!

Through fundraising we have raised a lot of money over the years for Leukaemia and Motor Neurone in memory of my dearest Dad (Neil).

generosity has been amazing and very much appreciated!

I would like to make a special thank you to my wonderful friend and colleague, Lilian, who has been a rock to me and my family, and a brilliant asset to my salon. I have been very lucky to have worked with lots of lovely girls along the way.

I now look around my salon with tears in my eyes and very fond memories of all of our customers, past and present. We have had lots of fun and laughter too, and enjoyed my mum’s (Norma) shortbread with a cuppa!

I just can’t thank everyone enough for a wonderful time over the past 18 years of having Ailsa’s Salon and I would be delighted for your continued support with my new adventure.

Kind regards,

It’s been a while, but I’m sure worth waiting for, a

artists, all with different subjects and styles

at

selection

‘Man’s Best Friend’ is by Phyllis Mulligan. Must surely be the best show in town. Thank-you for your support, artists donatingandthestaff attheBridge.

Lan������n��

N����h��

Don’t let searching for Christmas presents stress you this year.

Make your way to Langbank Church on Friday 18th November and you’ll be sure to find something whilst browsing a varied selection of stalls.

This year there will be Glass by Steven & Daisy, Beganasatree by PJM Woodcrafts, jewellery, calendars and cards, Christmas crafts and decorations, jams & chutneys, tombola and others.

Finish off the evening by relaxing over a refreshment and nibbles.

Admission is £2, which includes a free raffle ticket for a Christmas hamper. The celebrations begin at 7.30pm, so be early in order to grab the best bargains.

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

WARD 11:

Cllr James

cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk

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

November meetings held in the Cargill Hall.

9th with Sharon and on the 23rd the NHS choir. All welcome.

Ire����

If you are interested in joining us to celebrate the life of Irene McCallum, please join us upstairs at the River Inn on Saturday 19th November 12noon to 3pm - we would love to see you.

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

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

Cllr David Wilson: david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk

The ��������g��

63 Main Street, Bridge of Weir - www.thebridgebridgeofweir.com

Christmas

Our selection of Christmas Cards, Wrapping Paper, Tags, Diaries and Money Wallets have been on sale since the middle of October.

Alison Bannerman, local artist & trustee of The Bridge, has designed a Christmas card for 2022. A further selection of cards are on sale including Traidcraft Cards. All cards, including the ever popular individual ”Greetings from Bridge of Weir” are available from our Christmas display.

The Cafe – Our café is open for reasonably priced hot and cold drinks and biscuits in a warm, welcoming environment. If you haven’t visited before, perhaps now is the time to give us a try!

French Conversation Class are held for an hour at 11am on the first Saturday of each month.

Thanks to Nathalie Piret for offering her services. No charge, but donations to The Bridge welcomed.

Films – Film night has started up again. Last Thursday of the month and some Fridays over the winter. Full programme can be picked up at The Bridge. To compliment the new French Conversation classes a number of foreign language films (with sub-titles) will be shown over the season.

The Garden - thank you to Brighter Bridge of Weir for their skill and hard work in tending our front and side garden ground. The garden has looked splendid over the summer. Please use the bench seats to enjoy the garden on dry, bright winter days.

The Bridge is the place to go for all your postal and banking needs and your stationery and greeting card purchases. Your support is essential to the continued success of The Bridge in retaining a post office in Bridge of Weir.

Finally a big thank you to all our current customers and our dedicated team of volunteers.

Bri������ ��f We���� ����I

Our next meeting on Thursday 3rd November will be an evening with Jim Carruth. Jim is an award winning poet and is Glasgow’s poet laureate. Much of his poetry is inspired by the countryside and the farm where he grew up near Bridge of Weir. We look forward to hearing some of his poems and the stories behind them.

We meet at 7.30pm in the Cargill Hall and welcome guests as well as members.

Karate:

Adults and children welcome (min. age 7 yrs) 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 elements of fitness: cardio, muscle conditioning,balance and flexibility. gems_paisley@hotmail.com

Tuesday 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Ballroom/Latin:

New members welcome. Private 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:

Each class is suitable for all levels of

none at all! yogabellieslyndsey@outlook.com

Sun 6pm - 7.15pm for Pregnancy

Arcara Recorders are coming to Langbank with the warmth and sunshine of Africa.

which will whisk you off to other worlds as they

will provide

and new on Sunday 27th November, 2.30pm at Langbank Church PA14 6XP. There are hauntingly evocative rhythms of Africa side by side

music

music to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ralph Vaughan Williams. There are more modern ballads, blues and riffs alongside more ancient dances.

a probably wet, most likely wild and no doubt inclement Scottish November afternoon, come along to warm up in Langbank’s African sun! No

necessary.

tickets £5 are available at the door on the day.

Baby

Sun 7.30pm - 8.30pm Hatha Flow for all Mon 10am - 11am for Mum

The Balley & dance Company:

to

a

suzanne@balletanddanceacademy.co.uk

Friday 4pm - 6.30pm

DDP Yoga:

Full

Laura 07474 443505

Monday 6.15pm - 7.15pm

COUNCILLOR/MSP

Hall Library)

Cllr Robert Innes

Tuesday 15th @ 6pm - 6.30pm Cllr Alison Ann-Dowling

18th @ 10.30am - 11am

Findlay MSP & Cllr David Mcgonigle

Monday 28th @ 3pm -

25th November at

Houston

light

Isabelle Stuart

issistuart@gmail.com or Tel 07508 905298.

will love our FREE mulled wine so enjoy! We have MARSHALLS hot sausage rolls to tempt you and of course our Tea Room will be ready to serve you with tea or coffee, juice for the children and delicious hot mince pies or shortbread, all getting you in the mood for Christmas.

This is an event you cannot afford to miss! Come and join our fun day Guild Street shopping.

Over the years the nature of events such as Fireworks Night has changed, but it is always important to remind children to stay safe at such occasions and if possible attend communal organised events which are much safer. It is also especially important to also keep our pets safe and secure on Fireworks Night. I would like to remind people that 5th November and Hogmanay are the only legal times on which fireworks can be set off without a Council License.

At the last full meeting of Renfrewshire Council a very important motion was passed, with unanimous support, that the Council would open its buildings as welcome hubs for the wider community to help people cope with the cost of living crisis. Details will be rolled out in the coming months but I think it is crucial to help anyone who is struggling at this most concerning of times.

Last but not least I am very much looking forward to the Houston Community Council’s Annual Christmas Lights Switch On, which is on the evening of Friday 25th November

This is always a great community event and I have nothing but admiration for the Houston CC and all the work they put into this evening. Full details will be on social media nearer the time.

Hopefully by the time readers are enjoying this month’s Advertizer the Barrochan roadworks that have been carried out by the Scottish Gas Network are coming to a very welcome end. Both SGN and Renfrewshire Council have been helpful in assisting local residents who have contacted me with queries throughout this essential emergency work.

I thought I would take this opportunity to highlight that I see and hear the objections to the proposed development by Stewart Milne Homes in Houston village. As a ‘relatively’ young villager myself I have always been of the impression that we need more affordable and social housing in the West Renfrewshire villages before we build any more four or five bedroom mansions. People want to downsize and people want to live closer to family. A lot of young people from the villages starting up in life simply cannot afford to live in Houston, Bridge of Weir or other surrounding villages. We also have issues with school capacity, lack of amenities and ever increasing traffic on our roads. If developers are going to come in and bulldoze our Renfrewshire villages then they need to give an immense amount more back to the communities than they currently do.

I had a lovely afternoon marking the official opening of Houston Primary School Early Learning and Childcare Centre. I was treated to some wonderful songs from the children, including a brilliant rendition of “Ye canny shove yer granny aff a bus”. It was truly wonderful to get a tour of the beautiful facility and see all the different areas and activities that the kids can get involved in, from their fairy garden to the very impressive vegetable patch. It is a brilliant space for our young people growing up in Houston.

Ho��s������ & Cro����l���� S��I

Our next meeting is on Wednesday 9th November and we are looking forward to hearing a talk 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 made very welcome. If you require any further information please phone 07932 459994.

Got any news?

The news submissions included in our magazine are FREE! Send your news by email to info@advertizer.co.uk or alternatively you can complete the online submission at www.advertizer.co.uk/submit-your-news/

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

Sewing Group R4 10am

DWL R2,3,& MH 5pm

Diaporama R2 14th @ 7.30pm

Handiwives R4 21st @ 7.30pm

TUESDAY

Yoga R2 7pm

Hazel Connelly Art Class R2 1st,15th, 22nd, 29th @ 1.15pm

DWL R2,3 & MH 4pm

WRADS MH 19th @ 7pm

WEDNESDAY

DWL R2,3,& MH 3.30 pm

MOO MUSIC R2 9.45 am

Gryffe Camera Club R2 7.30 pm

Women’s Institute R19th @ 7.30 pm

Cllr Audry Doig R5 16th @ 7pm

Community Council R4 16th @ 7.30pm

L&R Foxhounds (AGM) R5 2nd @ 7pm

THURSDAY

Gryffe Quilting Group 1pm – 3pm (3rd & 17th 10am - 3pm)

Crafty Friends R2 3rd & 17th @ 7.30pm

Folk Club MH 8pm

DWL MH 5.30pm

Move It Or Lose It MH 10.30am

FRIDAY

Yoga R2 10.30am

DWL R2,3,& MH 3.30pm

Gavin Newlands MP R1 11th @ 12.30pm

Cllr Alison Dowling R1 18th @ 11.15am Natalie Don MSP R1 4th @ 12noon

SATURDAY

DWL

Cllr

SUNDAY

Baptist

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

Ho��s������ & Kil������l���� Ki��k

Generous Response from Houston Community

The last quarter of every year is a particularly busy time for Local Outreach initiatives at Houston & Killellan Kirk and 2022 is no different. All initiatives are generously supported by the Houston Community. The weekly Foodbank collection continues to produce great results – weekly averaging about 15 crates of food, toiletries & cleaning items, with 51 crates during Harvest Thanksgiving week. This is significantly aided by the Bee Happy Houston team led by Jake Fulton. The donations are collected weekly by the Renfrew Foodbank van & the collections continue on Tuesdays between 10am & 12noon & 7pm – 8pm at the West Halls, Main Street, Houston.

Traditionally, there are a number of additional charity initiatives during the last quarter. There was another Warm Clothes appeal during October to support the homeless & vulnerable. The initial response, at the time of writing, has been tremendous. The final results will be posted later of the donations delivered to the Lodging House Mission & the Simon Community – both always expressing their gratitude for the generous response. This is followed in November by an appeal for Christmas Gifts for the Children of Prisoners, supported by CrossReach at Perth & Polmont Prisons. Then in December the ever popular Kirk Postie returns.

The volunteers at Houston & Killellan Kirk are most grateful to not only the congregation, but the wider Houston Community for so generously supporting their projects.

Christmas Gifts for Children of Prisoners

Following the very generous response last year and in earlier years, Houston & Killellan Kirk are once more seeking donations to aid the work of CROSSREACH in Scotland. CROSSREACH, a Church of Scotland Social Care Charity, supports the families of prisoners in Scotland.

Donations of new toys, selection boxes etc for children ranging in age from babies to teenagers may be donated at West Church Halls, Main Street, Houston on Tuesdays 22nd and 29th November between 10am & 12noon & 7pm – 8pm i.e., at the same time as Foodbank donations are received.

Gifts may also be donated at the Kirk on Sunday 4th December at the Christmas Gift Service at 11am. The children will be so appreciative of the gifts. Thank you for your anticipated support!

“We Will Remember Them”

As is the tradition, a retiral offering will be taken at Houston & Killellan Kirk after the Remembrance Day Service, which starts at 10.45am on Sunday 13th November. This will be divided evenly between Erskine Hospital & Homes and SSAFA (The Armed Forces Charity). Donations may also be made through the tab on the Kirk web site or at the Foodbank at the West Halls, Main Street on Tuesdays 15th & 22nd November. After the Kirk Service, there will be a short service & laying of wreaths at the War Memorial.

W��m����’s Reg��������r

We are starting November’s zoom meetings with the latest Murder/ Mystery play written by an NWR member in England who has raised thousands of pounds for charity with her plays. We are also participating in the annual national Telephone quiz. We have meetings with the topics: robots and how we would use them, Famous Marys and Gardens of the World. We hope to get together for coffee afternoons in November.

The Book Group will discuss “Rizzio” by Denise Mina and “The Dressmakers of Auschwitz”, the true story of women who sewed to survive, by Lucy Adlington.

The national walk ”Stepping Out” in October was very successful but due to our bad weather we only contributed 31 miles to the total of over 2,000miles walked by NWR women all over the UK

We would be pleased to welcome new members. If you’d like more information, please phone 703786 or visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

community,

Sunday 20th November

1pm - 4pm

Kilbarchan Guide Centre

20+ stalls

with gorgeous gifts and crafts for presents for your loved ones or treat yourself. We welcome some of our favourites including Nicole McCarron’s silver jewellery, Threepwood fayre, All things nice, Kilbarchan Soaps and many more.

Come along to browse our stalls can’t wait to see you there.

Entry: £3 includes tea and coffee. Children under 12 go free

business,

cllr andy doig

At the last full meeting of Renfrewshire Council I was delighted to get the support from all sides of the chamber for my motion calling on council officers to examine options to reconfigure the notorious Midton Rd/Bowfield Rd B776 junction in Howwood. Crucially this tasked officers to also look at compulsory purchase as well, as what is required in my view in nothing less than a fundamental redesign to make that junction safe for all residents. I will look with interest at what officers propose.

Over the last five years I have used my Independent vote and voice to great effect to get substantial investment in playparks in Kilbarchan, Howwood, and Lochwinnoch. Over the last few months I have been having discussions with a constituent and council officers who have ideas about regenerating the former football pavilion in Kilbarchan Park. It makes eminent sense to me that, with new playpark equipment and fantastic new benches installed by Kilbarchan Community Council, that a facility offering tea and coffee would be very popular.

Castle Semple is renowned as the jewel in the crown of Clydemuirshiel Country Park and it rightly attracts visitors from all across the central belt. Unfortunately only a fraction of these actually go into Lochwinnoch to see the great shops and attractions that exist there. To try and promote our local businesses at this difficult time I asked council officers to erect a “Shops and Village Attractions” sign at Lochlip Road, where most visitors enter the village, to entice them up to the village centre. I sincerely hope it works.

Surgeries: 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

How�������� Com��������t�� Co����c����

As November now changes the colours, here is a brief update on a few points over the past few months.

We applied for, and received, funding through The Villages Local Partnership and Renfrewshire Council for various projects in the village. This is most welcome, part of which will purchase a further defibrillator and cabinet for the village to be sited at The Midton Bowling Club. It is great to see that, after lengthy representations by HCC and our local Renfrewshire Councillors, the main road between the village centre to the junction with the A737 is now resurfaced. This will undoubtedly make a positive difference to our village. One side benefit during the period of road works was that there was a great reduction in speeding through that area!....If only that could continue!

The Safe Walking Initiative report on speeding and traffic in and around Howwood and the online consultation that many villagers took part in is still being formulated. It had been hoped to be presented to Renfrewshire Council in September, but as there is a lot involved, more time is required for this very important issue. We will keep you informed of any developments.

With regards to villagers’ questions, the upgrading of The Village Hall is still under discussion with Renfrewshire Council. We have been unable to receive a timescale for this, but rest assured, we have not forgotten. Howwood will mark Remembrance Sunday this year at 12noon on Sunday 13th of November at The War Memorial on Bowfield Road.

kilbarchan

opening Times: Monday – Friday: 10am to 12noon & 2pm to 4pm

Monday

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

Tuesday

Craft Group 2pm - 4pm (every 2nd Tuesday - 8th & 22nd)

Book Group 7.15pm - 8.30pm (once a month - next meeting 1st Nov.)

Wednesday

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

Thursday

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

Family History 7pm

Friday

Bridge 2pm - 4pm

Members old and new will be made most welcome.

The first meeting of the Family History Group was very successful. The next meeting will be on Thursday 17th November at 7pm. Do come along if this is something that interests you.

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

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the Kilbarchan Pipe Band perform at Steeple Square last month. The band has had a tremendous season. It was a pleasure to talk to members afterwards and learn more about the band and the pipes. Congratulations to all involved and for raising a whopping £450 for the Beatson Cancer Charity. Station7 in Johnstone is a wonderful new facility. I had a great time meeting the ‘crochet crew’ who are knitting and crocheting blankets for elderly residents who are vulnerable during the winter months. I was delighted to support their efforts by delivering boxes of wool donated by my 89yr old mum-in-law.

As Labour Spokesperson for Education I’m determined that all our children have the best learning opportunities. I’m looking forward to visiting Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch, Thorn, Howwood and St Margaret’s Primary Schools this month. I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet with staff to find out more about what’s happening in our local schools.

As I mentioned in my last column, I submitted a motion to council calling for the urgent establishment of a Holiday Hunger Fund to help parents during the school holidays. This would provide grants to local community groups across the authority who have local knowledge and understand where there is need. The Council administration agreed to take this forward to its Fairer Renfrewshire Group and I’ve had discussions with officers about how this fund could work for the benefit of local families. I hope to see this fund form part of the Councils Winter Connections Programme.

Remembrance Sunday gives us the opportunity to commemorate the sacrifice and service of our Armed Forces in defending our democracy and freedom. I’m honoured to have been asked to lay a wreath on behalf of the Council at Lochwinnoch War memorial on Sunday 13th November.

Contact info: 0300 300 1268 cllr.gillian.graham@renfrewshire.gov.uk

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Welcome, firstly a big thank you to all who contributed at our harvest service with gifts of food and money to the local foodbank.

We are living in hard times and all the help we can give I am sure is greatly appreciated.

Some events For November: Women’s Guild Mondays 2.30pm

Monday 7th Speaker from Christian Aid Sunday 13th Remembrance Day Service, 10am as usual

The youth organisations will be in attendanceCome & support this very worthwhile service.

Monday 21st - Craft Afternoon

Wednesday 23rd - Monthly Coffee morning, all welcome 11am.

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

Come along to your local church and be made very welcome.

Saturday 12th November, Doors 7pm Lochwinnoch Golf Club, Burntfoot Road, PA12 4AN

Rowan began playing the fiddle at the age of 7 in his home town of Broughshane in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. He is steeped in the Irish dance tradition. Rowan has extensively toured many Celtic festivals and continues to promote Irish dance music. You’ll be blown away by his passion and talent for Irish Music.

Lauren is a traditional fiddle player based in Glasgow. She has a particular interest in traditional and folk music and has travelled extensively playing in places around the world.

Lauren will release her debut album this year.

Tickets £12, available at Now and Then Gifts or online at: www. scotlandontour.com scotlandontour.com/venue/lochwinnoch-golfclub/www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

Friday 11th November 2pm - 4pm Film show Calder U.F. Church Hall

Reaching people with Dementia, their carers or family. In addition, we provide social interaction and support for older members of our community and then open to all if numbers allow. For more information contact 07868 752814.

local community, local business, local life

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Services continue each Sunday at 11am, conducted by Rev. Stephen Smith with coffee and tea are served in the hall after the service. All welcome. On Sunday 13th the annual service of Remembrance will take place, the church service is at 9.45am, thereafter there will be a parade to the Cenotaph for 11am. Each service is available to watch by Live Stream by logging on to the church website: www.kilbarchankirk.org All are welcome in the church or online. Junior Church meets each week.

The Midweek Fellowship is on Wednesday mornings at 10.30am in the small hall, with coffee/tea and chat, followed by a short act of worship.

The Badminton Club continues on Thursdays from 8pm10pm in the large hall. Players of all ages and abilities are most welcome.

The Drama Group is pleased to announce the showing of the Christmas film “Elf” in the church hall at 3pm on Saturday 26th November. There is no charge for the film, but donations towards popcorn and other goodies will be gratefully received. Tickets will be available in Bobbins and as numbers are limited, please pick up your tickets as soon as possible.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Guild has 2 meetings in November: on Tuesday 8th at 2.30pm in the large hall there is a speaker from the Star project in Uganda, aiming to provide access to education, vocational training and food for vulnerable children and women in Uganda; On Tuesday 22nd, also at 2.30pm, the speakers are Anna Magnussen and Joyce Deans. All welcome.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club is on every Monday morning from 9.15am-11.30am in Kilbarchan Parish Church hall, off Steeple Square. The club is for tots of 3 years and under along with their accompanying adult. The cost is still £1 per adult, including refreshments. We hope to welcome lots of new babies and tots to enjoy the many toys and bouncy castle and for the adults to make new friends.

Renfrewshire Food Bank, supported weekly by Parish church members, has benefitted by over £500 and a large amount of extra food donations as a result of a coffee morning held in the church hall in mid-August.

All details of our different organisations along with contact details can be found on the website: www.kilbarchankirk.org

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3 ways to recycle and help save the planet

david wilson

On the 11th November at 11am in the Cargill there will be a short observance of the 2 minute silence of Remembrance. On the 13th St Columba’s pipe band will lead at 10.15am a parade of youth organisations from Birkmyre Park to St Fillans Episcopal Church. On the same day at 12.30pm the band will lead a large parade in Port Glasgow.

At the recent Scottish Transport Awards McGills Buses won the prestigious Public Transport Operator of the Year. They are a well run company and continue to expand throughout Scotland. We are fortunate to have three bus services in the village with a little subsidy from SPT.

The Scottish Government have overturned the refusal of development on the Gryffe Valley Railway Line in Bridge of Weir. This puts the ‘nail in the coffin’ of any line to Kilmacolm. It is generally considered that a park and ride and 6 trains an hour at peak times at Port Glasgow is adequate for eastern Inverclyde.

Colourful Kilmacolm, Birkmyre Rugby Club, Parklea Branching Out, the Dramatic Society and Kilmacolm Eco Space have all received grants. The latter is a bit of a funny one as they do not own any land and the grant will only be paid if they do. The Institute development at the Cross has been sold. Our saviour is Puneet Gupta, a local businessman and resident. This has become an eyesore and will be of some relief to local residents. I have turned my attention to the rest of Smithy Brae and the completion of the flood relief scheme at the Moss should help matters.

I cut the ribbon at the opening of the new Indian restaurant, Nawaab, in the village. The owners have the successful Curry House in Port Glasgow and we wish them well with their Kilmacolm venture.

We are involved in the Clyde Green Freeport bid in conjunction with Glasgow Airport and Mossend transport hub. We have competition and I have been lobbying Ministers.

In my role as Older People’s Champion I have attended the Scottish Older People’s Assembly as part of Age Scotland. I am lobbying to make sure that our State Pensions retain the triple lock.

As I write, brown bins will stop on the 7th November. Surgery: 26th November in the Cargill 10am - 11am.

can now recycle more of your household waste at Kilmacolm Community Centre – these are items that cannot be recycled in our blue kerbside bins. The 3 recycling bins are in the foyer of the Community Centre at the reception desk.

Empty Medicine Blister Packets – This product contains tinfoil and plastic which needs to be recycled in a certain way. We have all SEPA permits to allow us to collect and transport this material.

Writing Equipment – Pens, Felt Tip Pens, Highlighters, Mechanical Pencils and Correction Fluid can all be recycled.

Foil Balloons and Foil Banners – Please remove any plastic sticks and ribbon.

feel free to make good use of the recycling bins and help prevent these materials from entering landfill. Many thanks.

Kilmacolm new Community Centre

Monday

Yoga with Liz 10am – 11am Yoga with Janis 10am - 11am Kilmacolm Bridge Club

Tuesday

7pm – 10.30pm

Rock Choir 11am - 12noon Qi Gong 12noon – 1pm Art Club 6pm – 8.30pm Zumba 6pm – 7pm Singing for Health & Wellbeing 7pm – 8pm

Wednesday

Embroidery 10am – 12noon Move It Or Lose It 10.30am – 11.45am Pensioners Lunch 12.30pm – 2pm

Friendly Bridge 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Yoga 5.45pm – 6.45pm

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

Thursday

Pilates 9.30am – 10.30am Art 10am – 12noon Acting For Fun 5pm – 8.30pm Metafit 6.30pm – 7pm Kettle Bells 7pm – 7.30pm

Friday

Art 10am – 12noon

Moo Music Inverclyde 10.30am – 11.30am

Singing for Health & Wellbeing 11.30am – 12.30pm

Special Events in November

Horticultural Society – Winter Syllabus Talk, Wednesday 16th at 7pm to 9pm.

Quarriers Village - Christmas Fayre, Saturday 19th from 10am to 3pm

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

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King Arthur -The Panto is coming to Kilmacolm on 24th, 25th with 2 shows on 26th November.

Join us for this fun filled family show and see Arthur’s challenge to pull the sword from the stone. Will he rescue the fair Guinevere from the evil Morgana and her Dragon?

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With the colder weather here and the Cost of Living Crisis impacting children and their families – it is more important than ever that Inverclyde Food Bank’s supplies remain well-stocked and that we are able to offer vital support to people being referred by their GP, Health Visitor, School, Social Worker and certain Charities. Once referred to Inverclyde Food Bank, a three-day, dietician approved food parcel can be provided.

The Kilmacolm CO-OP has an Inverclyde Food Bank Donation Bin. If you would like to make a donation, then food can either be purchased in the CO-OP or bought elsewhere and brought to the donation bin.

The list of items included in an Inverclyde Food Bank food parcel:

Cereal, UHT Milk, Diluting Juice, Jam, Tea, Coffee, Biscuits

Tinned Soup, Baked Beans, Pasta ‘n’ Sauce, Cup ‘a’ Soup, Super Noodles, Tinned Macaroni/Ravioli/Spaghetti

Tinned Meat, Tinned Potatoes, Tinned Vegetables, Tinned Fish, Pasta Sauce, Dried Pasta, Tinned Tomatoes, Curry Sauce, Rice, Tinned Meal eg. Fray Bentos Pie

Tickets now on sale online from kilmacolmdramaticsociety.co.uk or from Ticketsource. For any queries please contact Mandy Robinson on 07719 309960 or Rosie Thirde on 01505 873088

Our Annual General Meeting takes place on Friday 28th October in Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm at 7pm. We will follow the meeting with some Halloween fun - feel free to come along and find out more about us.

Tinned Fruit, Tinned Custard, Tinned Creamed Rice Pudding

Toiletries: Toothpaste and Toothbrushes, Shampoo and Conditioner, Body Wash, Soap, Deodorant, Shave Gel and Razors

Baby and Child Toiletries, Nappies Household Cleaning, Toilet Roll

all tins,

and

of food (no fresh food)

JennyMeadows10@outlook.com

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November 10.30am11.30am - Kilmacolm Community Centre Rest, reset and restore in a deeply immersive full body listening experience that invites gentle therapeutic and restorative sounds and vibrations to nurture your mind and body. For tickets visit: www.thesonicden.

If you fancy helping to keep Kilmacolm looking its beautiful best for a wee hour, once a month, on a Sunday – all you need is a litter pick and your enthusiasm. The bags are provided and uplifted by Inverclyde Council.

Everyone is welcome to help out including kids. We clean up Kilmacolm village centre, the cycle track, the play parks and some of the country roads leading to our village – there’s a route for everyone!

Dates For The Kilmacolm Litter Pickers:

Sunday 6th November - 9.30am

Sunday 4th December - 1.30pm

Sunday 8th January - 9.30am

Sunday 5th February - 1.30pm

Reservations & Takeaway: 01505 874663

Saturday: 10am to 3pm Sunday: Closed www.cargillcentre.com

We meet on the First Sunday of every month (January 2023 is on the second Sunday as the first Sunday is New Years Day) at Gryffe Road, Kilmacolm (the Bridge of Weir Road end). Hop�� ���� ��e�� y��u ������ a��d ������u�� w������ Th�� ��i������c������ Li����r ��������er�� so��������me �������� .. Jen���� x (contact details as above)

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The Sòlas bereavement drop-in group will be meeting in the Lounge of the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm, on Thursday 10th November 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. 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

OUTLOOK Team: Thursday 3rd November from 2pm to 3.30pm in the Kidston Hall - Cookery Indian Style with Indu Mani - a practical demonstration and tips for spices. Thursday 17th November from 2pm to 3.30pm: Bill McKean on violin and piano. Come and enjoy some traditional Scottish tunes and sing-a-longs as well as poems from the talented musician.

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. Meetings traditionally enjoy a guest speaker, or videos, quiz, tombola, easy keep fit.

MOVIE NIGHT: Movie night returns to the Old Kirk on Thursday 17th November at 7pm for 7.30pm. We will be showing the hilarious musical Hairspray starring John Travolta. Free entry and open to all. Glass of wine on admission. Donations welcome.

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

Stephen Mccabe

With COVID restrictions now removed it has been nice to get the opportunity to go back into our local schools to hear about the good work they are doing. In the past few weeks I have attended parent council meetings in Kilmacolm Primary, Port Glasgow High School and St Stephen’s High School. I have also attended the annual awards ceremonies in both secondary schools to celebrate the successes of our young people.

Much of my time is being taken up at the moment with ongoing discussions around the Council’s budget. This is undoubtedly the most challenging financial situation the Council has faced since I joined in 1999 as a result of inflationary pressures and government funding cuts. We are going to have to make many difficult and unpopular decisions in the months ahead to balance the books.

Many local households are also struggling to make ends meet at the moment. If you are in that situation there are a range of local and national support and advice services available to assist you. You will find details in the following link www.worryingaboutmoney.co.uk/inverclyde. You can also contact the Council’s Advice Services on 01475 715299 or email Triage.Advice@inverclyde.gov.uk.

Works are now on site to construct a reservoir at Glen Mosston to reduce the risk of flooding in Kilmacolm Village centre. Works at Gotter Water in Quarrier’s Village are being re-tendered as no bids were received for the first tender.

The Council is currently in discussions with Police Scotland about reducing the speed limit in parts of Kilmacolm to 20mph following speed surveys being undertaken. A new cycle storage rack is due to be installed shortly in the public car park in front of Carriages as part of a wider strategy to encourage cycling.

Surgery: Boglestone Community Centre, Tuesday 8th November 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

Regular Meet Classesschools

St ��o������b��’s S����o��l

When we say that to become a Columban is to become a part of something special, we believe it. Find out more by visiting us during Open Week (Monday 7th - Friday 11th November) and experience our thoroughly modern school in action!

We take seriously our role in preparing our pupils for the exigencies of the real world, arming them with all the skills they will need to build fulfilled lives as well-rounded individuals. While most of our former pupils go on to university, this route is not for everyone - some pursue further education or go straight into industry. We can count executive chefs, runway models and military trainees as some of our most successful recent alumni. Our exam results frequently place us in the top 10 of Scottish independent schools - this collective success is to be lauded, but we celebrate individual achievement above all: every Columban is different and so are their personal bests.

Most of our pupils start St Columba’s in Junior School, where they receive a strong academic foundation. Play is very much a part of the infant years’ experience, where pupils learn through curiosity in the wild woods, our enclosed woodland area – the ideal outdoor classroom! Providing opportunities to learn in exciting ways, including through our extracurricular clubs, outdoor education programme and individual music tuition, means that our Junior School children develop a love for learning that stays with them throughout their lives. From Junior 1, children receive lessons in Art, Drama, French, Music and PE with a dedicated specialist. In Senior School, the options to develop and grow are limitless. Pupils can take part in one of over 50 extracurricular clubs, meanwhile, participation in DofE or societies such as Pupil Council or Sustainability Club gives pupils the opportunity to explore their interests and test their leadership skills. Our Senior Years pupils run clubs, formally apply for prefect positions, and lead innovative programmes, such as Mentors in Violence Prevention, Mental Health Ambassadors and Peer Mentoring. We are incredibly proud of our strong community and it is with programmes such as these that we can put that strength to the test. st-columbas.org

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

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.com Margaret 07930 324276

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

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

tiny dancers with terry

Carruth Road, Bridge of Weir Monday: 1.45pm

A new dance class for 3 year olds. Adventures in music & movement and introduction to ballet. Places strictly limited - please prebook a place. terry@feranjo.co.uk Terry - 07739 497390

Bridge of Weir Primary

Back to Normal - How good it has been over the first few months of this school year to get back to ‘normal.’ Assembly is Back - Due to the expanding numbers in our school, we now have separate assemblies for older and younger pupils. This allows us to focus on topics such as school ethos and values and wider issues such as the UNCRC (The United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child). P5-7 have been practising singing a moving rendition of Universal Child by Annie Lennox and Primary 3 entertained us with a ‘sound poem’ evoking the sounds of the jungle.

We are also so proud of our current P7s who are excellent role models. Many of them confidently presented to the whole school on their personal skills and qualities and have now been elected to be House Captains or part of the School Council. We look forward to what they have in store for us.

Choir is Back! - We are delighted to say that senior choir has recommenced, rehearsing each Thursday after school. Christmas is high on our agenda, and we look forward to performing at the Kilmacolm Christmas Fayre on 19th November, the school Christmas Fayre on 24th November, Princes Square on 12th December as well as our own school concerts. We are well underway in our preparations for these performances. Please come along and support us. Volunteers and Visitors are Back - We are so grateful to have volunteers back in the school and we have a number of activities and programmes which they support such as handwriting, reading, STEM, Spanish, and cycling. Please contact the school if this is something you would be interested in.

And at the time of writing P5-7 are eagerly awaiting a visit from author Phil Earle on 25th October. We are very much looking forward to hearing all about his new book and being inspired as we continue our journey to being excellent readers and writers.

Langbank Primary

Maths Week Scotland

In September Langbank celebrated Maths Weekend Scotland. Maths Week Scotland is a celebration of the importance of maths in our everyday lives and this year’s theme was ‘Beauty of Maths’.

The week kicked off with an outdoor maths warm-up. The children loved throwing some mathematical shapes and to start the week together. At the end of the week Langbank celebrated our great work in Maths Week Scotland together at assembly and were delighted for a p2 parent to come into assembly and share how they use mathematics in their job and daily life.

Stop, Drop and Count - Each day the bell rang to signal a time for the whole school to stop what they were doing and to engage with some fun, on the spot counting activities.

All classes took part in the Sumdog contest. Out of nearly 7000 classes, we had fantastic finishing results with all classes in the top 20% of contest. Congratulations!

The Stem development officer also delivered exciting STEM workshops to all classes. P1/2 and P3/4 learned all about bubble geometry and how engineers have been inspired by nature. P6/7 looked into aeronautical engineering and learned more about fair testing. P5 enjoyed a biscuit dunking comparison whilst thinking about STEM careers in Food Technology.

Glasgow City Mission Food Collection

Langbank continue to conduct regular food collections for Glasgow City Mission. We are delighted to maintain this partnership with the church and are always overwhelmed with the generosity of our school community.

Meet the Teacher

It has been wonderful opening our doors back up to the parents and families again. The families of Primary 1/2 enjoyed coming into school for a stay and play session with their children in Term 1. In P3-7 classes our families were invited in for Meet the Teacher on Thursday 15th September. It was wonderful to share the children’s learning and classroom environments with them, some for the very first time!

Duc��a�� N��r��ery

As autumn arrives we continue to spend plenty of time outside, discovering areas to explore. Our conker collection was a huge success during a walk around the park, with our wellies on we are happy splashing in puddles and running around making the most of the wonderful space around us. The benefits of exercise and fresh air are definitely top of the agenda at Duchal!

We can’t wait for our Halloween themed Open Morning on Saturday 29th October, it’s on from 10am – 12 noon and is open to all families with pre school children – come along for some spooky arts and crafts, and to find out more about what we can offer if you are looking for early years nursery places. Our pre school children are flourishing, progressing so well with their fine motor skills preparing them for starting school. They really benefit from the quiet space which allows them to work separately from the younger children, making the most of our 3 separate classrooms.

Having our own native speaking French teacher is wonderful, the children so enjoy the visits from Madame, as she makes learning a new language at a young age so much fun, it is amazing how quickly they learn new words, it is definitely the age to learn another language!

We are currently taking registrations for August 2023. The best way to find out more about us is to arrange a visit to chat to the teachers, see our wonderful facilities and experience Duchal in action! Please phone (01505 874358) or email (info@duchal.com) to arrange a time that suits you.

Duchal is an independent nursery with children moving on to various local schools (Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and Glasgow) and is open 8am - 6pm each day offering free funded places for 3 – 5 yr olds (available for residents of Renfrewshire as well as Inverclyde). Keep up to date on all our news and events by following us on social media and our website www.duchal.com

Nosy Crow Ltd

A delightfully funny story from the author of There’s a Bear on my Chair. Mouse and Bear are going to decorate their Christmas tree, each take their turn but they just cannot agree on how to decorate the tree which leads to lots of funny misadventures for the pair who think that their own way is best. Will they ever agree on the best way to decorate the tree? Perfect for ages

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Richard Ayoade Illustrated by Tom Freeman ISBN 9781529500301

Walker Books Ltd

Did you know that the most annoying thing for a book is to have their pages folded? Written from the point of view of an unwanted book, this book invites children to be a part of it’s incredibly funny and unusual story. What happens to a book that gets left on the shelf or the floor, and how can a book that no on wants to read become the book that YOU want to read? The book is fantastically illustrated throughout which compliments the story brilliantly. A fantastic book for 9+ readers who enjoy funny stories.

Alex T. Smith

Pan Macmillan

9781529041613

The Grumpus HATES Christmas. But he LOVES Brussels sprouts. When his local greengrocer sells out of Brussels sprouts (because what’s Christmas dinner without Brussels sprouts?) the Grumpus decides that Christmas. Must. Be. CANCELLED. So he formulates a plan. A Dastardly, Dreadful Plan. A Dastardly, Dreadful Plan...TO CANCEL CHRISTMAS! So he sets off to the North pole with his trusty friend ‘The Stick’ by his side. However things don’t turn out quite the way that he planned, and The Grumpus finds that instead of cancelling Christmas, he just might be the one person who can save Christmas... A heartwarming tale about the true meaning of Christmas for all the family to enjoy.

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Tim Lihoreau and Philip Noyce Illustrated by Olga Baumert ISBN 9780241562499

DK Children

Discover the orchestra in this beautifully illustrated book that journeys through the different instruments and sounds of the orchestra. The interactive elements allow the reader to listen to the various orchestral instruments and music from Tchaikovsky and Strauss along with other famous composers, who you can learn more about at the end of the book. This is a delightful book that would make the perfect gift for children age 5+ who wish to learn more about the orchestra or who have a love of music.

A new concept in family entertainment launching in Glasgow city centre looks set to transform kids and adults’ leisure time, as well as the face of UK city centres.

The UK’s first Level X, inside a vast 30,000sq ft former retail space in the city’s St Enoch Centre, features a range of futuristic, immersive attractions that have been sourced from around the globe.

Level X features Disney style ‘load and play’ RFID wristband technology that will allow customers unlimited access on entry to all the gaming features within Level X as well as the ability to tap and pay for food and drinks.

Glasgow’s Level X, which sits in the space vacated by Hamleys Toys in St Enoch Centre features a range of family friendly gaming and attraction ‘zones’, including:

Alt Verse: A virtual reality zone that allows customers to experience a wide range of games and roaming multi-player games through VR headsets, as well as a number of single player VR pods.

Level up: An eclectic collection of the newest and most nostalgic arcade sensations from around the globe, including giant Hungry Hippos.

Big Putts: An indoor mini golf course with technology in the ball that keeps score for you, displayed on screens around the course.

Gutterball: tenpin bowling, but not in an environment you’d know, where graffiti art, bespoke bowling balls and custom Gutterball ‘socks’ are the norm.

planets. There’s Mars, Earth and Saturn, but Earth is my favourite because I live on it.”

We had our open evening, where parents enjoyed seeing round our newly refurbished nursery and speaking to staff to find out what goes on during the nursery day.

Nursery S��I��

This term, the children have shown an interest in learning about space. They have been making planets, building rockets, and looking at books to learn more about the solar system. Trips have been arranged for the pre-school children to visit the Science Centre in November to extend the children’s learning. Millie said “There are lots of

We had grandparent’s week when the children invited their grandparents in to spend time with them in the nursery. They also enjoyed a cup of tea and cake in our new family room.

The nursery currently has term time availability for children aged 3 – 5. For more information, please contact the nursery on 01505 704839 or check out our website https://kilbarchancn.com/

Greenlees Team on way up to Division 1 following a very successful year Well, it was a very close run league this year, with only one point separating the top 3 teams. Old Ranfurly’s Greenlees Team knew it was going to be very close and didn’t particularly want to go into the top division, as many of the division 1 teams are all single figure handicappers ! However, now that they are promoted, they are excited about it and looking forward to next season and playing new courses.

After 11 years as team captain, Valerie Mackinnon has decided to stand down and pass the reins to Mairi Milne, whom we know will do a great job. Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club was the venue for a fundraising event in aid of The Beatson Cancer Charity on September 3rd organised by club member Susan Devine.The venue was sold out and looked amazing decked out in Beatson colours . It was a fabulous evening of delicious food from club chef, Louise, and brilliant ceilidh music and dancing from Chitterybite Ceilidh Band. An amazing £12,466 was raised from auctions and raffle for The Beatson. Thanks to all those who supported the event and those who donated items for such a worthy cause.”

Kil��a��ol�� Go��f ������b

With the arrival of Autumn and the odd day of wet weather now is the time to make the most of our fabulous indoor golfing facilities, the 2 bay indoor studio is the perfect place for some fun social golf or an opportunity to improve your game with regular indoor practice or make the most of our Golf Pros and their winter coaching offers.

As the ladies golf season draws to a close social golf will continue with our weekly Tuesday 10 hole competitions a fun informal chance to keep out on the course throughout the winter, as well as the winter matchplay knockouts. Also we are delighted that our weekly bridge afternoons will also re start on Tuesdays for the winter months.

Meanwhile our team of green keepers are busy out on the course concentrating on the winter programme of works to ensure the course is in its best condition next season. Neil and the hospitality team will continue with our fortnightly fish and chip nights and keep an eye out for other themed nights and specials.

Stra��hgryffe Te����is C��ub

The club recently had its tennis club finals day with 25 finals played. Both men’s and women’s singles were tight 3 set matches. Lee Wishart overcame Liam O’Brien in the men’s singles, whilst Carla Ward defeated Nicky Henderson in the Ladies singles.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Nathan Lundy as the new Head Tennis Coach. Nathan joins from Merchiston School in Edinburgh where he worked as the Head Coach at the school’s tennis academy. For further information on the Strathgryffe’s coaching programme, visit info@strathgryffe.net.

Susan Devine (centre) handing cheque to grateful Beatson representative

Valerie Mackinnon stepping down after 11years as Captain of the team

Ren��rew����ire G������ Unio�� Me��’s “A” Team ������ai�� t���� We��t ��e��gue Ti��le

In the final league match of the season, it was a winner take all with the two unbeaten teams of Renfrewshire, 4 from 4 and Stirlingshire, 3 from 4 and a draw, facing one another on Sunday 16th October at Greenock Golf Club. With the course fairly wet following the heavy rain the previous day, but thanks to the efforts of the Green Staff it was fully playable. The Renfrewshire Golf Union Men’s “A” Team retained the West League Title which they had won in the 3 previous seasons by defeating Stirlingshire Golf Union by 5 matches to 3.

In the top match Stewart Watt was always in command showing no mercy to his more senior opponent and ran out a comfortable winner by 7/6. Roddy McAulay currently at St Andrews University was next up, but never found his usual solid game and lost by 4/3.

Paul Dorrian, Greenock Club Champion on his home course and playing very good subpar golf was a comfortable winner with his opponent conceding the match on the 13th green.

Jack Crawford was struggling with an injury against the St Johnstone F.C. Manger and thought he had managed to take the match down the last only for his opponent to sink a 60-foot putt on the 17th green to close out the match.

Ryan McKenzie back from a heavy defeat last week, showed his class and was never behind in playing solid golf after the turn and winning by 3/2.

Craig Thomson, former Champion at Greenock was up against a young Stirling University Golf student but showed his fighting spirit when 6 down with 6 to play won the next 3 holes before finally bowing out at the 16th. Ronnie Clark “why am I playing”, the senior member of the team, showed exactly why he was selected by playing well and finishing his game on 16 with a fine birdie, and in so doing meant that the team could not lose. David Miller put the icing on the cake with a 1-hole victory over his opponent ensuring that the team had a 100% record this year.

The Renfrewshire Golf Union are delighted to have retained the league trophy and our thanks to all the players who participated in the matches and in particular those who came into the team as last-minute substitutes. Our thanks also the various clubs who gave us use of their courses for the Team Matches.

Full results as follows –

Stewart Watt (Old Ranfurly) beat Colin Mundie (Glenbervie) 7/6 Roddy McAuley (Fereneze) lost to Alex Marshall (Grangemouth) 4/3

Paul Dorrian (Greenock) beat James Donaldson (Stirling) 6/5

Jack Crawford (Williamwood) lost to Callum Davidson (Dunblane) 2/1

Ryan McKenzie (Erskine) beat Richard Johnstone (Glenbervie) 3/2 Craig Thomson (Gleddoch) lost to George Cannon (Glenbervie) 3/2

Ronnie Clark (Erskine) beat Greg McLellan (Stirling) 3/2 David Miller (Fereneze) beat Mark Hislop (Glenbervie) 1 hole

Lyall Campbell (RGU President) & 6 team members with the West League Trophy

Guid���� Wi��d��i���� Wal��

Sunday 13th November - 10am to 12noon at RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF. £5 - £12.50 Call 01505 842663 for further information.

Explore the wonderful wetlands to be found at Lochwinnoch! Our warden will take you around the reserve and point out the interesting wildlife to be found here. They will also tell you about the current and future management of the reserve because conservation involves much more than just leaving things alone!

Whether you have a general interest in wildlife, or would like to hone your wildlife watching skills, then this is the walk for you! Stout footwear and clothing suitable for the Scottish outdoors are strongly recommended.

Bri��ge Of W��i�� ������t����u��t����a�� Soci��t��

Sant��’s Mis��in�� R��i��de����

1st to 24th December as per opening hours at RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF £3 per child. Normal entry fees apply for non-members Santa’s reindeer were supposed to be helping him out by finding out what some of the wildlife here at RSPB Lochwinnoch would like for Christmas, but have got themselves lost! We need your help to see if you can find the reindeer and complete the list of presents for Santa.

As you explore our woodland trail, see if you can spot any of the missing reindeer whilst keeping an eye out for some of our special wildlife creatures that will tell you what they’re hoping to get as presents! Find all the reindeer and complete the wish list for presents and we’ll give you a special reward for completing it!

We have enjoyed a slightly warmer, drier autumn, but this month, expect colder spells and towards the end of November sleet or snow showers. This still gives gardeners time to tidy, collect fallen leaves and mulch around shrubs e.g., acers and azaleas. In nature, falling leaves cover and mulch the forest floors, these duly break down and provide nutrition for the trees. Divide large clumps of perennials, particularly those growing in a circle around the dead centre. Dig up the old crown and put in recycling, it has done its job and pot up plants for family, friends – and members! Don’t over-tidy! Leave flower and seed heads alone as these will provide shelter for insects. At ground level ladybirds or the chrysalis of next year’s butterflies will be hibernating in the leaf mould. Collect self-seeded plants - Forget-Me-Nots and Perennial Geraniums are easy to spot. Re-pot in good compost, water and place in a sheltered area to over-winter. Plant any forgotten bulbs, as long as the ground is frost-free. Tulips usually go in last to avoid Tulip Fire/Botrytis. Throw away any tulips with small black spots – this is Botrytis in its infancy. Discard these in general recycling. Start off indoor bulbs. Remember to choose bulbs which have been brought-on especially for early displays. Read the growing instructions if aiming for a display at a particular time! With milder weather, there are more occasions when summer plants enjoy late bursts of colour. Here’s a Passion Flower which didn’t get the chance to flower last year - earwigs nibbled the outer petals and ate the tender contents. It’s now in a container and spent the summer putting on root growth before belatedly producing buds which flowered last month. By covering the stems with a sticky viscose-type cream, boarders were successfully repelled! This took time, but it worked!

Fire������ks ��et t�� p��p on ��etu����

Inverclyde’s annual fireworks display is set to pop when it returns next month following a three-year absence.

The extravaganza, which is free to attend, returns to the skies above Battery Park on Saturday 5th November

This year’s display will be set to a score of contemporary pop music from the last year.

The fireworks will start at 7pm, but there will be food stalls and entertainment, including fairground rides, from 5pm.

The Battery Park car park will be closed to the public and the area is expected to be busy, so people are advised to arrive in good time and use public transport where possible.

Aut������ Supe�� ��p��tt���� Sca��e��g���� Hu��t

1st to 30th November as per opening hours at RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF £3 plus normal entry fees for non-members

Are you a super wildlife spotter? Do you have the skills to find the hidden items along our trail and spot the actual wildlife as well? Pop into the visitor centre to collect your goodie bag and take part in this fun challenge for kids of all ages!

Kil������c��a�� & Dist��ict B��e��e��pe���� Associati��n

Autumn is moving into winter. The winter preparations for the colony begin in autumn when the Queen reduces her laying and honey is stored in the brood chamber instead. As the temperature drops, gaps in the hive boxes are filled with propolis to keep out draughts and the bees cluster into a ball for warmth. From now on beekeepers will disturb the hives as little as possible to help conserve the heat that honeybees generate inside. Many hives have an open mesh floor so that there will be enough air flow to avoid condensation. It is damp rather than cold that causes problems for overwintering honeybee colonies. Where hives have a solid floor the inner crown board is often raised just a few millimetres to allow for airflow. Meanwhile the beekeeper has been careful to insulate the hives well, reduce the entrance size and add guards over it to keep out invading rodents. A mouse seeking a warm home can do damage inside the hive before it is overcome. Hives are securely strapped together, often combined with a weight added to the top as belt and braces for the high winds and gales we often get at this time of year.

This early in the colder seasons, the bees should have plenty of stores, but to be on the safe side a large slab of sugar-based fondant can be added so that beekeepers can rest assured that the supply will be sufficient. Through the winter months hives are checked regularly for any sign of weather damage without opening them and “hefted” by being gently lifted. The weight is a good indication of plentiful stores inside and that the bees are not going hungry.

If you are interested in beekeeping for yourself, please contact our secretary via kilbarchanbees@outlook.com who can provide more details about our association and how to join. We have a Facebook page which is reserved for members and beekeeping friends, however you can follow us on Twitter via @KilbarchanBees and Instagram via kilbarchanbeekeepers

Photo above shows a clustered colony accessing sugar fondant supplied by the beekeeper during winter

How�������� Wil����if�� & Wo��d��a��ds

Sunday 2nd October – Planting 300 daffodil bulbs for next spring

Friends and volunteers of HWW have had a busy summer keeping all the troughs and planters in the village looking their best and we are hopeful of planting more bulbs, on grass embankments throughout the village, next year. There are planters at the four main entrances to the village filled with flowers and the areas looked after by HWW are consistently being improved.

The areas looked after include the Rhombus garden, opposite the Boarding House, the wooded area behind the Rhombus, the Isthmus and the Triangle in the centre of the village

This year we have installed more seating and benches throughout the village and these have been well used by locals, walkers and cyclists stopping for a rest.

Our next meeting is our AGM on Tuesday 8th November at 7.30pm, in Howwood Village Hall where anyone wishing to find out more about volunteering for HWW will be made very welcome.

Branching Out at the Knapps

By Rona Simpson of Stanley Wright

An area, much loved by locals, is to be given an arboreal makeover by Milton Farm Partnership. The proposed plan is to plant 35 hectares surrounding the Knapps Loch and nearby woodland with a mixture of broadleaved species of trees. The reasons for planting are fourfold:– to provide a sustainable commercial benefit to the farmer; to enhance access through improved pathways; to increase biodiversity; to increase carbon capture.

It is an area hugely popular with dog walkers and many others who use it for recreational purposes. With this is mind the forestry planner for the site has identified the main pathways and earmarked them for an upgrade. Hopefully this will mean more people will be able to access the area in future – with fewer soggy feet!

Understandably, some might resist the idea of changing this landscape, but the proposed plan has been sensitively designed to seamlessly incorporate with the surrounding environment and existing woodlands. No planting is to take place on the front fields, which will be retained for future use for local events.

A mixture of broadleaved and native species has been proposed for planting – many of them native varieties. These have been chosen for their timber qualities, impact on the landscape and suitability to the surrounding ecology of the Knapps. Native species are particularly beneficial for biodiversity. Yes, the landscape will change, but it will bring with it diversity and colour. We should look forward to some stunning arboreal autumnal displays.

While the new trees are taking root it will be necessary to erect deer fencing to protect them from browsing by roe deer. It will also be necessary to ask dogwalkers to keep dogs on leads (or under control) within the fenced areas so that the saplings are not damaged. This will only be for a short period of time until the trees are established.

Looking to the future, the timber grown will produce a variety of products as well as providing a valuable diverse habitat. Birds will build nests and small mammals and invertebrates will, in time, make this new forest their home. It will also quickly begin to capture and store carbon – an important process in our current climate. Furthermore, this new plan will provide another woodland area for our community to enjoy.

friend of ours from Kilmacolm, Emilia Crighton, completed her round of the Munros in September on Ciste Dhubh, in Kintail off the road to Skye. Emilia is a member of BoW Hillwalkers and also a member of the Gryffe Hill Walking Club. In completing the 282 Munros she joined a long list of local climbers who have completed since the group was founded in 1985.

and family gathered in the Kintail Lodge Hotel to celebrate with a massive chocolate cake after a climb in the swirling mists and “a very

rain”!

Since our last appearance, the BoWers have climbed Meall Buidhe, a Munro in Glen Lyon in somewhat misty conditions and laterally undertook a traverse of the Isle of Cumbrae which, as usual, ended up in Nardini’s. We do tend to become less adventurous as the nights close in! We also had a superb weekend in Ardnamurchan. This is one of

Scotland’s best kept secrets (so don’t tell anyone about it)!

were several walks undertaken, including an ascent of two tough wee hills north of Laga and a long trek out to Loch Laga via the Kentra Moss with views to Rum and Eigg on the western coast. We were delighted that the newest Munroist, Emilia, was able to join us for the weekend. Another walk was from Sanna Bay, long associated with Clearance families being shipped out to Canada. We were focusing on the four paths that lead from Sanna, Achnahee, Sonachan and Portuairk townships (villages) to the central old school. This is in the middle of nowhere but roughly equidistant from the above settlements. Our route took us from Sanna into the realms of the ancient volcanic caldera near the tip of the peninsula and the old school and schoolhouse which is still used as a house. We went up behind the school following the trail to Achnahee through the volcanic rim by way of the Bealach Dearg. These kids must have been tough to walk that way in the depths of winter and through Atlantic storms. We nearly got blown off our feet in September! Next month sees us in the Trossachs, the Luss Hills and some culture at Pollok Park and the Burrell. Well the cafe is good and it is the end of November. Not a time for heroics!

has been very

soon for Spring

and

look forward to planting even more

The Litter Crew

on its rounds

converts these

bought is then donated to the Renfrewshire food bank. They have recently passed the £3,000 mark for value of donations, a figure they are extremely proud of.

at a local supermarket.

If anyone wishes to do this they should contact us on: beehappyhouston@outlook.com

We are often stopped to ask where residents

Bri����te�� B����d��e O�� We��r

We spent a hectic few weeks dodging the rain while trying to get the planting done in the ‘new’ woodland garden before the winter gets going. The garden will take time to recover from the trauma inflicted by the creation of Sustrans’ pathway, but it will get there in the end. Around 50 new trees and shrubs and 2,500 bulbs were planted. If everything takes, it should look very different by springtime. It’s not finished, of course - nothing we do can ever be said to be ‘finished’ - that’s what makes it interesting.

Ours is an all-year-round Group and there’s always something that can be done, from clearing litter from around our plants to checking on their health and welfare. Our pictures show local girl Abigail, who has joined us for a while as part of her Duke of Edinburgh’s Award quest. We could always do with more help, so if you can spare a little time now and again, please get in touch. You can find out more on our website at www.brighterbridgeofweir.org or you can contact us via our Facebook page (Facebook.com/brighterbridgeofweir).

Cast��e S��m����e S����ling Cl����

Before the memories of hot sunny days on Castle Semple Loch fade away, it’s a pleasure to remember some of the life affirming times we have had this year. There has been a great deal of messing about on the water, some slightly serious racing and a lot of young people spending almost as long in the water as in the dinghies. One of the highlights this year has certainly been hosting the Challengers Regatta at just a few days’ notice. We were blessed with reasonable wind, spectacular sun, but best of all by lots of volunteers who made it a very enjoyable weekend for some inspiring sailors. They ranged in age from 20 to 92. If you have walked along the shore side path this year, you will have seen some changes as we gradually move from our old Portacabin into containers, with the associated earth moving and fence installation.

We are always aware of our new Sustainability Policy. We have vacated the old compound in front of the Portacabin, but have sufficient boat storage immediately to the north east of our old compound. We are very grateful to Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park for their patience whilst we move and to our neighbouring clubs as well. We are continuing to consult our members about the fitting out of the containers.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are interested in sailing at the club: info@castlesemplesc.co.uk

The delights of Castle Semple haven’t stopped our members travelling far and wide. Boats have been trailed to Stonehaven, Yorkshire, Ireland, Loch Tummel and all points in between and a lot of us obviously enjoy the Largs Regatta Festival each year. It is also encouraging that the number of members participating in racing on Wednesday evenings and on Sundays have in general increased from pre pandemic times. As well as classes for adults of an evening, we have been busy with children attending Cadet Weeks, evenings and Sunday mornings throughout the season. We are also pleased to thank our kind-hearted volunteers who made sure that we supported the Lochwinnoch Gala Day, for running the RYA Discover Sailing Day and for ensuring that safety support and Race Officers were available for the various race days. Thank you too to our talented photographer, Joe Reilly.

Our next task is to arrange our Pop-Up fund-raising Christmas shop. We’re planning on Saturday 3rd December, so get your reindeer orders in now! Call Neil on 07969 642487.

Froglife’s Scottish Green Pathways Project (Scottish GP), working across Clackmannanshire, Dundee, Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow and Renfrewshire has been shortlisted in the Youth and Education category at RSPB Scotland’s prestigious Nature of Scotland Awards.

The Scottish GP project works with vulnerable and disadvantaged young people aged 8-18 (or up to age 25 for those with additional support needs) to improve their local greenspaces for wildlife through practical and educational outdoor learning sessions.

We work with groups or individuals during a range of one-off or longer term projects to improve young peoples confidence, social skills and positive behaviour as well as their knowledge and appreciation of wildlife, especially amphibians and reptiles and their transferable skills through practical and educational projects such as pond creation and building bog gardens and hibernaculum.

“We are honoured to have been shortlisted in the Youth and Education category at the RSPB’s Nature of Scotland Awards this year. We are proud of every young person we have worked with since the project began in 2017 and of all the improvements to local greenspaces we’ve been able to help them make during that time. It’s amazing to be able to showcase this through the Awards.” Said Louise Smith, Development Officer for the Scottish GP project.

Scottish GP was announced as a finalist in the Youth and Education category at a ceremony at the Scottish Parliament, the first in-person celebration for the Nature of Scotland Awards since 2019.

On Thursday 17th November, the finalists will gather at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre to enjoy a night of celebration, where the winners of all 10 categories will be announced.

The awards ceremony, now in its 11th year and co-sponsored by NatureScot, will be hosted by wildlife presenter Iolo Williams and radio and tv presenter Arlene Stuart. They will recognise the individuals and organisations making a difference in their local communities, businesses and schools to support Scotland’s wildlife and special places.

Following the success of the public vote for Nature Champion of the Decade in 2021, Nature-lovers are being invited to vote for this year’s Citizen Science Award, which will honour those who engage with volunteers to further our understanding of the natural world.

Anne McCall, Director of RSPB Scotland said: “Chairing the judging panel for the Nature of Scotland Awards is easily one of the best jobs I get to do as part of my role as Director of RSPB Scotland.

“I am so inspired by the number of new, exciting projects we hear about each year, working hard to conserve Scotland’s important habitats and wildlife. The judging process seems to get harder and harder every year!

My fellow judges and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to apply and we look forward to meeting and celebrating with everyone from the conservation community at the ceremony in November.”

Mike Cantlay, Chair of Awards co-sponsor NatureScot, said: “We are delighted to be the co-sponsor of the Nature of Scotland Awards with RSPB Scotland. We are joined in our national endeavour to tackle the biodiversity crisis in Scotland so that we can secure nature’s benefits and deliver on net zero. This year’s shortlisted Nature for Scotland nominees are the people, businesses, organisations and communities who work tirelessly to take positive action for nature and we wish them every success for November’s final.”

Anyone with an interest in Nature is welcome to attend the Awards, tickets are available at https://rspb.org.uk/natureofscotlandawardsceremony

R����B ��oc����inn��ch

Well, its November already and its dark so early summer seems so far away, but to brighten your day why not visit us at our reserve? You can come for a walk along our woodland trails, kids can look for fairies on the fairy path, go wild on our adventure trail and natural play area or bang out a tune at the acoustic play area.

If you are looking for a more relaxed visit why not take part in our “Wellness in Nature Walk”, just pick up a free leaflet at the welcome desk. As you walk the trail keep a look out for the wildlife that calls this reserve home, you never know what you might spot. Then drop back into the centre for a hot drink and a sandwich for just £3!

At this time of the year Autumn migrants have arrived, whooper swans, teal, wigeon, goldeneye, pochard and goosander making the reserve their winter home.

The reserve shop continues to sell all your bird feeding requirements, fancy goods, binoculars, and telescopes. We have all our Christmas stock in the shop, you are sure to find a unique gift for a loved one.

In November we have a few events the first is a guided wildlife walk on the 13th, booking is essential, and an Autumn scavenger hunt for families for all of November. On the 3rd December is the feel-good-photo walk, please book online for this. For something different, fun, and unique come and visit us for a 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

Cl����e ������rs��iel

With help from our volunteer groups, we have now finished the pathing repairs to the Windy Hill path at Muirshiel Country Park. We have also finished cutting the two meadows at Johnshill and at the Lochwinnoch annex. Now that we are heading into winter, we will be starting again to carry out cutting and control of pontic rhododendron and sitka spruce within the park sites. If you would like to get involved in helping us, we host an Adult Volunteering session every Thursday from 12.30pm – 3.30pm. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Now is the time of year to enjoy autumn colour in the Regional Park. Parkhill Wood and Muirshiel Country Park are both great places to see the changing colours of the leaves and the varied displays of fungi on the woodland floor. There are many different species of fungi in the park and while some are edible, many are not and some are poisonous. We ask visitors not to pick any mushrooms in the park unless they are 100% sure of the identification of edible types.

As the vegetation dies back, it is revealing litter dumped over the summer months, particularly along the loch shore at Castle Semple. Please be mindful of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code by being respectful of other park users, the environment and to leave no trace. We would also like to ask dog walkers to adhere to the Access Code by please keeping their dogs on lead or under close control when near to farm animals and sensitive wildlife. Thank you.

Join us online: www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk; Facebook: www.facebook.com Clydemuirshielregionalpark; Twitter and Instagram: @clydemuirshiel #clydemuirshiel

Or call us on: 0300 3000 200

Fro����if��’s S��ottis�� Gr��en ����th��a��s Sho��tlist��d ��o�� R����B ��at������ o�� Scot����n�� A��ar��

ITEMS FOR SALE

BABY EQUIPMENT

Britax Duo Romer Plus,

Isofix system, black car seat. Excellent condition - 8 years old, but only used three times. Complete with fittings and handbook. £50. Tel: 07925 109808.

HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN

Cheval mirror with drawer free• standing in wood beautiful condition. £15. Tel: 01505 872813.

3-hook metal (silver) coat rack

x 2; can be used separately or joined together, £10 for the pair. Tel: 07785 547199.

Fabric picture board with• ribbon, 60cm x 40cm. Like new, £10. Tel: 07785 547199.

Open coil spring single bed• (mattress and base). Hardly used as been in spare bedroom. Buyer must collect. £150. Tel: 07922 339218 or 01505 702316.

Shower Tray 900 x 800 white• stone resin, including HiFlow chrome finish outlet. Brand new £65. Tilemaster tile adhesive 40kg £20. Tel. 07551 947132.

ELECTRICAL & GAS

BT 4000 Big button phone• with nuisance call blocker. Two handsets. Hardly used. Cost £58 sell £30 ono. Tel: 07494 367894.

Grundig reel to reel recorder &• reels including Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra & others. Unsure if it is working. £35 ono. Tel: 07494 367894.

DeLonghi Compact Portable• Dehumidifier. Cost £159, sell for £50. Tel: 07503 314015.

BT 4600 Big button phone• with call blocking & answer machine. Three handsets. Hardly used. Cost £80 sell £40 ono. Tel: 07494 367894.

SPORTS

Thick (• 1/2”) yoga mat, purple. Like new, only used a couple of times. £5. Tel: 07785 547199.

Set of golf clubs with trolley• attached. £50. Tel: 01505 343704.

Gents bicycle in good• condition. £50. Tel: 01505 343704.

Mountain Bike (26inch frame).• Excellent condition, cost £300, ideal for child 13-16. Sell for £50. Tel: 07788 917365.

Cobra F7 Driver 10.5 deg• (adjustable) regular shaft, excellent condition, including headcover & adjustment tool. £140. Tel: 07918 828727.

Titleist 915 H 3 Hybrid 21• degree (adjustable) regular shaft, excellent condition, including headcover and adjustment tool. £70. Tel: 07918 828727.

Titleist 915 F 3 wood• (adjustable) regular shaft, excellent condition, including headcover and adjustment tool. £75. Tel: 07918 828727.

TECHNICAL & GAMES

Jigsaw puzzles (Ravensburger,• 1000 piece): Colourful Spices, Art Gallery, The Beach Hut. Worked only once, all pieces present. £5 each, or all three for £12. Tel: 07785 547199.

The

Name:

Lord of the Rings puzzles:• Puzz 3D - The Golden Hall of Edoras 700 pieces; Ravens burger - The fellowship of the Ring 1500 pieces; Sculpture Puzzles - Gandalf 160 layers

3D head; Feva-The Set of Three Games, card /jigsaw games. £40. Tel: 01505 613854.

2 Harry Potter games: The• Chamber of secrets Trivia game,1000+ questions; The Philosopher’s Stone, Mystery at Hogwarts Game. Both in excellent condition with all inner packaging. £20. Tel: 01505 613854.

OTHER ITEMS

Large chipmunk cage -• unused. £35. Tel: 0141 589 1976.

Full size Billiard Cloth. Good• condition. £20. Tel: 0141 589 1976.

WANTED ITEMS

Old records Wanted 45`s &• LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 01505 873958 or 07710 777571.

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.

Collector seeks old boys toys• from 1960s/70s. Eg: Action Man, Dinky, Corgi, Spot On, Lego. Best prices paid. Please phone Tony: 07951 899604. Moulds and wicks for candle• making. Tel: Stuart 01505 873140.

Gramophone records (78’s)• and His Master’s Voice portable gramophones, (working or not) wanted by collector. Cash waiting Tel: 07591 121777.

FREE CYCLE

14-piece drill bit set. Note:• sized in inches (a US product). Tel: 07785 547199.

DVDs: selection of films &• box sets. Call for list. Pick and choose or (preferably) take the lot. Tel: 07785 547199.

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 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/

my-bins-collected

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:

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

SITUATIONS

CHILDCARE

Houston registered

childminders. For an

to

Kilmacolm/Quarriers

area registered childminders. P/time or

u-5’s

07952

TRADES

Bathrooms

. . . . 15

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 35

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 4

Bedrooms

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 3

Blacksmith & Metalwork

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 11

Building Services

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 21

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 23

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 19

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 9

M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 27

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 10

Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 9

Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 7

Catering

Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Cleaning & PowerWash

Always Clean Windows . . . . . . . 19

Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 29

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 9

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 10

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Platinum Cleaning Services . . 12

Driveways

A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Education

Mary Bridges - Play Piano . . 33

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 31

Electricians

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

MAS Electrical & Security . . 27

Russell Milne Electrician . . 23

Entertainment

G Local Musical Theatre School . . 31

Fencing

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 11

Firewood & Logs

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Funeral Services

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 5

John Roach Funeral . . . . . . . . . 23

Garage Doors & Gates

Garolla Holdings Limited . . . 17

Garden Service & Design

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 40

Bencairn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 13

Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 41

Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 40

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 23

J Andrews Garden Maintenance . . 41

Lady Grafters Garden . . . . . . . 42

R Williams Tree Services . . . 42

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Gas & Heating Services

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

Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 5

Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 29

Wright Gas - Scotland Ltd . . 2

Glazier

1on1 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Hairdressers & Barbers

Ailsa’s Home & Mobile Hair . . 18

Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 23

Health, Beauty & Fitness

Arlene Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Erskine Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Kilmacolm Physiotherapy Clinic . . 15

LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

The Osteopaths . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Thrive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Home Hardware

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24,25

Home Improvements

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 40

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 13

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 4

Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 3 Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Renfrewshire Handyman . . . . . . 23

Home Interiors

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 3

Little Luxuries Scotland . . . 3 Olapip Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Home Security

Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Joiners

CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 17

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 19

M Addison Joiners&Builders . . 27

McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 11

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 10 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 9

Kitchens

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 35

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 3

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 4

JBC Joiners & Builders . . . . . 19 Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 9

Leisure & Recreation

G Local Musical Theatre School . . 31

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Locksmiths

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Eckory Locksmiths . . . . . . . . . 23

Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Painters & Decorators

A Gallagher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Andrew Hay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

James Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Pest Control

RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 33

Pet Services & Training

Suzanne’s Grooming Pad . . . . . 8

Plasterers

Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 10

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 17

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 9

Plumbers

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

Gasfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 5

Pool, Hot Tub & Spa

The Health Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Property, Sales & Let

Cochran Dickie . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

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

Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

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

Removals

At@ease Removals . . . . . . . . . . 22

Retail

Andersons Jewellery . . . . . . . . 7

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24,25

Little Luxuries Scotland . . . 3

Roofing

A&M Sandstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6

Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . . 10

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 21

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 10

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 23

KC Roofing & Building . . . . . . 10

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 9

SMG Roofing & Building . . . . . 10

Thomas McMaster & Son . . . . . . 7

Solicitors

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

Special Occasions

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Taxis

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Tiling

Gordon James Ceramic . . . . . . . 11

Tree Surgeon Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 40

Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 41

R Williams Tree Services . . . 42

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 42

TV & Satellite

Clearline TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 3

Upholstery Services

Eclipse Deep Clean . . . . . . . . . 29

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 9

Window Cleaners

Always Clean Windows . . . . . . . 19

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 9

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 10

Matthews Cleaning Services . . 11

Window, Consv & Repair

1on1 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13