337 June 2023 - Gryffe Advertizer

Next Deadline

#338 JuLY 2023: Wednesday 14th June

Upcoming deadlines:

#339 AUGUST 2023: 12th July

#340 SEPTEMBER 2023: 16th AUGUST

Contact us:

01505 613 340 info@advertizer.co.uk www.advertizer.co.uk

GryffeAds

GryffeAds

GryffeAdvertizer

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

Office Hours:

Tues - Thurs 9am - 4pm

Friday 9am - 1pm

This Month Warmer

days on the way...

The Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show and the Houston & Killellan Kirk Carnival had fabulous weather on the 13th May. Both events had a brilliant turnout.

Here’s hoping that the other events coming in June will have the same weather!

Lilias Day in Kilbarchan and the Houston & Killellan Agricultural Society Show are both on Saturday 3rd June, followed by the Renfrew Gala Day on Sunday 4th June.

The Lochwinnoch Gala Day and the Bridge of Weir Gala Day are both on Saturday 10th June the following weekend.

The Kilbarchan Agricultural Show, the Howwood Village Fete and the Barshaw Gala Day are on Saturday 17th June.

There’s more information on each of these in our Villages, Events and Outdoors sections.

This year is the 140th anniversary year of the Boys’ Brigade and as part of their celebrations Paisley & District Battalion would like to hear from any former members, friends or members of the public about their memories of the 1983 Centenary. There is more on this, as well as contact details, on page 8.

The deadline date for our next issue, the July magazine, is Wednesday 14th June. Please ensure that you send your information in by this date so that it can be included.

local news for:

• bridge of weir

• brookfield

• houston

• howwood

• kilbarchan

• kilmacolm

• langbank

• lochwinnoch

• quarriers

There’s all this and more inside this edition of the Gryffe Advertizer!

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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.

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

• Printed in Glasgow and delivered by a local team.

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

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

01505 863 863

www.nutechcleaning.co.uk

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

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 PUBLISHER

The Gryffe Advertizer is published by © The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd

“St Columba’s Pipe Bank in New York”

Advertising Feature

In this issue...

Come along to this free family friendly event which has something for everyone ranging from street food, continental food, live music, kids entertainment, deserts, bars and so much more!

St Vincent’s Hospice - Golf Day!

Join us for our first Golf Day since 2019, it’ll be worth the wait!

We have a beautiful local course booked for you to enjoy the competition with your friends/family/ colleagues in your teams of 4 to take away the St Vincent’s Hospice Shield for 2023.

The day will begin with hot breakfast rolls and tea/ coffee, a Shotgun Start, with prizes for several challenges throughout play, followed by lunch, prize-giving, raffle and auction. Prices are £320 per team of 4 players, or £80 each, and we will place you in a 4. We also have sponsorship opportunities available for businesses – 18 Tee Sponsors are available @ £120 each, as well as plenty of Bunker Sponsors @ £60 each.

Your sponsorship will include your company name and logo at the particular site as well as an advert in the Event Programme. The Tee Sponsors will be larger than the Bunker Sponsors.

Enter at https://stvincentshospice.org/fundraising-events/golf-day2023/ - we look forward to seeing you there!

lOCHWINNOCH aRT fESTIVAL’S

Don’t miss this amazing evening of superb Scottish Celtic music in the beautiful Lochwinnoch Golf Club on Friday 9th June. Ross, Ali and Jenn are taking in Lochwinnoch as part of their tour.

Tickets £12 available in ‘The Shop at Number Eight’ or online at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ross-ainslie-ali-hutton-lochwinnoch-tickets588187884797

Local man walking Camino de Santiago for St Vincent’s Hospice

Local man Gerry McCourt is currently walking the Camino de Santiago to raise vital funds for St Vincent’s Hospice.

Gerry is enjoying the Camino de Santiago very much, which sees him trekking along the beautiful pilgrimage routes of northern Spain travelling 800km.

Gerry has already raised over £1,500 and donations are still coming through.

Hayley from the Hospice fundraising team said “We are so grateful to Gerry and everyone who is supporting him. He is doing such a wonderful thing for our patients and families and his fundraising is going so well, we can’t thank him enough.”

If you would like to support Gerry and the Hospice, his online Just Giving page can be

found using this link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/st-vincents-hospice-gerrymccourt or you can donate at https://stvincentshospice.org/donate/

We are delighted to once again be holding our Summer fayre on Saturday 1st July at the Lagoon Leisure Centre from 10am - 3pm. With a large variety of stalls to suit all ages - a great day our for all the family! From games to facepainters, tea room to baking stalls, we have an amazing variety. Entry is free and all are welcome, a donation bucket will be at the door on entry should you wish to make a donation to the Hospice.

Houston & Killellan Kirk

We had a terrific Kirk Carnival – back for the first time in four years – thanks to everyone who came along and helped make it such a brilliant day. The sun shone and it was great to see so many people from across the whole community come together. Most importantly there was a wonderful atmosphere, lots of laughter and smiles and fun had by all!

Mickey and Minnie had a ball and we had lots of Disney Princesses, 101 dalmatians and Cruella (the Anchor Boys), as well as Snow White and her Seven Dwarves (Houston & Killellan Kirk Men’s Shed).

A massive thank you to all the local businesses who generously supported us by advertising in our programme and donating fabulous raffle prizes, to the organisers who worked tirelessly to get the Carnival resurrected and to all those who sold programmes, worked on stalls and behind the scenes to make sure everything went smoothly on the day.

Sma’ Shot Cottages

Open until 30th September on Wednesdays & Saturdays 12pm - 4pm | Fridays 1pm - 5pm

Step back into the 18th century in a the typical weaver’s cottage originally built in the 1750’s.

Come along and join us in our tea room, where we serve beverages and homemade goods and share stories of the past.

Owned and run by the Old Paisley Society, a registered charity. Admission is free, however, all donations towards the upkeep of the cottages are gratefully accepted.

Local History

The Boys’ Brigade 140 th Anniversary Year

Were You There?

As many organisations come out of the lockdown years there are very few who can celebrate such a special birthday like The Boys’ Brigade. Celebrating it’s 140th year in 2023, and as part of their celebrations, Paisley & District Battalion would like to hear from any former members, friends or members of the public about their memories of the 1983 Centenary.

During the Centenary Year members from Paisley and District were prominent in the national celebrations at The Centenary International Camp at Scone Palace or at Centenary Salute at Ibrox Park. Indeed Paisley’s President Raymond Shaw was the man instrumental in the success of Centenary Salute along with many others from this Battalion. Andrew Hosie was another who led the administration at the Centenary Camp – a major undertaking for 2,000 campers from around the world. Rev Sandy McDonald - David Tennant’s father – Minster at St Mark’s Oldhall & Ralston conducted The National Centenary Thanksgiving Service and many more who made the year such a success at a national level.

In Paisley & District local celebrations took place from an Anchor Boys Day at Erskine to a Centenary Show in Paisley Town Hall and not one, but two Fiddler’s Rally Concerts. In companies across this Renfrewshire there were many events including Birthday Parties on 4th Octobers and for some trips abroad.

Alas many who were part of these events are no longer with us, but a spokesman for the Battalion said it would be important to record the memories of people who are still around. This celebration is not only about looking back in time, but also an opportunity to recharge the inspiration that is young people after the Covid years. Indeed we hear there are twenty-five young men who have completed their Queen’s Badge Course and will be put forward for The Brigade’s highest award later this year.

If you were at any event grand or small The Battalion would like to hear from you by writing to Celebrations at BB HQ North Street Paisley or e-mail headquarters@bbpaisley.org

Johnstone History Society

Sadly our meetings for this session have come to an end, but will restart on the 11th September in the Masonic Hall, Collier Street. There is an interesting programme planned so we look forward to seeing all our members - any new ones will be made very welcome.

The final meeting in May was well attended and everyone enjoyed a very interesting talk about a family’s life in China . The Museum, however, will continue to open as usual throughout the summer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. All our usual selection of books maps and pamphlets will be on sale both at the museum and online at johnstonehistory.org We would like to wish all our members and friends sunny summer and good holidays.

Paisley & District u3a Monthly Meeting

Thursday 1st June at 2pm

Alison Clark, a puppet maker and storyteller will share “A Crankie Theatre Demonstration.”

The Salvation Army Hall, Mil Street Paisley. Refreshments served from 1.30pm.

Gryffe Valley Rotary

Speakers and Events

During May - An interesting talk on the 3rd – “Vikings in America” by author Victoria Finnigan; the 10th – “New Paisley Museum” a talk by Neil Ballantyne and Andy Robin from Renfrewshire Museum Services; on the 17th Matt McElroy on the 1913 expedition trip led by Vilhjalmur Stefansson to the Arctic; 24th - Iain Colvin gave Part 2 of his talk on Rudolf Hess’s trip to Scotland and on the 31st our AGM and Annual Review.

June Meetings

On the 7th Andrew Mcleman will speak on his experiences in the Police on the 14th Author and Archaeologist Louise Turner will speak on John Semphill the 15th Century owner of Ellistoun Castle Howwood. On the 21st John Melrose will be speaking and on the 28th the Handover to the new President Les King will occur

A successful 10k Run attracted over 150 runners and with thanks to and sponsorship from Bridge of Weir Leather and Malcolm Group raised significant funds for the Children’s Hospice

The club was represented at the Kilmacolm Show on 13th May and will be at the Houston Show on 3rd June. The Traditional Jazz Evening on 10th June in Brookfield is nearly sold out.

If interested in Rotary, why not come along and find out who we are and what we do. Please e-mail gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com to arrange your attendance.

Gryffe Valley Way

Information boards have been erected alongside the walking route:

• at the end of the viaduct at Bridge of Weir

• on the Mill Lade path

• at the entrance to Crosslee playpark

• adjacent to the Ardgryffe footbridge at Craigends

A booklet has been published with maps, descriptions of the route (West to East and East to West), information about interesting places on the way, plus refreshment hubs, bus stops, and car parking. The booklet can be purchased (£3) at the businesses which have supported the project, namely Ardgowan Fisheries Café, Carriages, Gibb Stuart, Bernies Café/ Deli, Affluent Financial Planning, The River Inn and the On-X Sports Centre and Café.

Improvements to some of the paths at Crosslee Wood and the Mill Lade, between Bridge of Weir and Crosslee, have still to be carried out. Individuals or organisations willing to help in a work party next month would be welcomed. Please email: gryffevalleyrotary@gmail.com

Quarriers Fountainview

Gryffe Valley Rotary was pleased to support Quarriers Fountainview with a grant of £500 to enable the seven people who live there to develop an accessible garden where they can grow vegetables.

The staff and residents, the oldest of whom is an 83 year old lady, welcomed David and Hugh of our local Rotary Club for a cheque presentation ceremony in their grounds.

Gryffe Valley Rotary is proud to receive support from our local community and to offer their support to local charities and groups.

National Youth Speaks Final

Our team from St Columba’s competed in the RGB & I National Youth Speaks Final in Rugby on Sunday 23rd April. As did the other five teams, Lucia G, Emma V and Orla O had worked their way though the earlier three stages of the competition, starting at club level, with only the winner going forward to each subsequent stage up to the Final. Not surprisingly the standard of the six presentations was extremely high.

Although not placed in the top two, the team performed extremely well, confidently presenting well prepared speeches without reference to a note in their 15 minute presentation. Chaired by Lucia, Emma and Orla gave opposing views on their topic ….”The books that we study in school are outdated and irrelevant”.

Well done girls and good luck in the SQA exams, which started immediately after your return from Rugby!

Soroptimist International of Paisley Fundraising Efforts

Local Action - £4.5K Worth of Help

As we recover from the effects of the pandemic, only to be hit with the rising cost of living, members of Soroptimist International of Paisley approach their AGM in a positive mood as they look back on what has been a better year for the Club. As well as finally being able to celebrate their 75th anniversary in June 2022, they have donated just over £4,500 to charity, mainly in the local area. Funds were raised through various small events and donations.

Throughout the year donations have been made to Renfrewshire Foodbank, Renfrewshire Women’s Aid, the STAR project and the Samaritans. These were supplemented by various donations of goods to help meet the needs of the local people these organisations are working to support.

In addition we were able to make a donation to the Turkey/Syria Earthquake Appeal.

All our members were delighted to realise how much their efforts had added up to and to be able to help support our local community.

Coming Events in June

Thursday 1 st

OUTLOOK Team

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

St Columba’s Junior School flautist group visit, followed by a delicious afternoon tea provided by the volunteer team.

Paisley & District u3a

Monthly Meeting

Paisley Salvation Army, Mill St, Paisley PA1 1nD from 1.30pm

Alison Clark, a puppet maker and storyteller, will share “A Crankie Theatre Demonstration.” Refreshments will be served.

Thursday 1 st - Friday 30 th

Happy Families

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

9.30am to 4pm £3

Discover the different wildlife families that call Lochwinnoch home. Complete the challenges as you go and claim your reward back at the visitor centre!

s a T urday 3 rd

Lilias Day

Kilbarchan Park, Park View, Kilbarchan 1pm to 5pm

Historic parade, award-winning pipe bands, decorated floats and decorate your house. Clamjamfrie ceilidh tent and kids entertainment tent. www.liliasday.co.uk

Houston & Killellan

Agricultural Society Show

Public Park, Four Windings, Houston 10am - 4pm

Another year of celebrating Houston’s Agricultural heritage and modern farming. Featuring and supported by local businesses. www.facebook.com/houstonshow

Strathgryffe Tennis Club

Open Day

51 Fleming Rd, Houston 2pm

Play tennis & squash, have a session in our fitness suite and participate in our FREE tennis coaching sessions. Classes for the whole family. Prize draw on the day. For more information and to sign up to the event, go to https://clubspark. lta.org.uk/StrathgryffeLTC/Events

Windy Hill Art Club

Inaugural Exhibition

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to 2pm

With over 100 pieces of artwork of different media on display. One corner of the show is bound to be familiar as you will see pictures of our local businesses recreated in acrylic paint for the “Village Still Life” section. There is a mystery picture to which every member has contributed. it will be revealed at the exhibition.

Pokémon Swap Shop

The Ginger Cat Children’s Bookshop, 35 Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3nR

1.30pm to 2.30pm

Calling all children - come along and trade your Pokémon cards with each other.

s unday 4 th

Glasgow Chamber Orchestra Houston Concert

Houston & Killellan Kirk, 13A Kirk Road, Houston PA6 7HW

7.30pm £5

Glasgow Chamber Orchestra presents ‘Music for a Summer’s Evening’. Tickets £5 at the door supporting the work of Mwandi Baby Milk Project.

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme

OPEN GARDEN

Carruth, Bridge of Weir

2pm to 5pm

Over 20 acres of long-established rhododendrons, woodland with good bluebells, young arboretum and lawn gardens in a lovely landscaped setting. new landscaping carried out in 2020. Admission £5, children free. For directions go to page 39.

Renfrew Gala Day

Robertson Park, Longcroft Drive, Renfrew 12noon to 5pm

A full afternoon of family fun and entertainment. Free entry.

Tuesday 6 th

Houston & Killellan Kirk Foodbank

West Halls, Main Street, Houston PA6 7EL (next to Carrick Centre and Village Hall) 10am - 12noon & 7pm - 8pm

Every Tuesday in June. Donations welcome.

Thursday 8 th

Solas Bereavement

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 2pm

Open to anyone who has lost a loved one. For more info call Barbara Marshall: 01505 872417.

Houston & Killellan Kirk

“Houston Hello”

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

With Kilmacolm Rock Choir, also on the 22nd. Drop-in group for people living with dementia and carers. Contact Frankie Greenwood 07817 210777 or email: familyandcommunity. houstonkirk@gmail.com

Friday 9 th

St Fillan’s Parent Council

Summer Fayre

St Fillan’s Church Garden, 1A Main Street, Houston

6.30pm to 8.30pm

With an inflatable Assault Course, Bouncy Castle, Games, Face Painting, Pizza, Doughnuts, Hotdogs, Raffle and a Bar - there’s something for everyone! Entry £2 or family ticket £5.

Lochwinnoch Art Festival’s Ross Ainslie & Ali Hutton Trio

Lochwinnoch Golf Club

Burnfoot Rd, Lochwinnoch PA12 4An 7.30pm £12

Tickets available at Shop at number 8 or online at: www. eventbrite.co.uk and www. lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk

Angel Voices Community

Children’s Choir’s St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm 4pm

Come and Join us for our 10th Anniversary Celebrations with a Musical Thanksgiving Service and refreshments in the hall afterwards. Contact: Maureen Russell: email maureenmrussell@hotmail.com. Tel: 07905 950028.

Friday 9 th - s a T urday 24 th

ACCORD Hospice Annual Art Exhibition

The Art Department, 2 - 10 Causeyside St, Paisley Free

We’re back again to celebrate all things creative, bringing together the best local and national artists ... a little something for everyone.

s a T urday 10 th

Lochwinnoch Gala Day

Lochwinnoch Recreation Ground, Lochlip Road, Lochwinnoch

Starts with the parade leaving from Auld Simon down to the park. Visit facebook.com/Lochwinnochgala/

Paisley CarFest

Saturday 17th June at 10am - 4pm County Square, Paisley PA1 1BP

Paisleys 6th CarFest - introducing all manner of vehicles no matter how old, how big or how many wheels. Loads for the whole family to do with stalls, games and music, everything from Mini’s to Muscle. Cars located in Gilmour Street to the High Street. Free event.

Proudly organised by Paisley First & Bill’s Automotive Detailing.

Bridge of Weir Gala Day

Houston Road Park, Bridge of Weir 11.30am to 4pm Programme details available on page 16. For further information visit facebook.com/Bridge-ofWeir-Festivals-112570363493444

saTurday 10th - sunday 11th

Dinomania

Johnstone Community Sports Hub, Beith Road, Johnstone, PA5 0JA 11am & 2pm £15

Dinomania is bigger than ever with more dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures than ever. Get up close and personal with lots of baby dinosaurs. Maybe you’ll get lucky and get to feed our long neck Armargasaurus or are you brave enough to touch a huge T.Rex. Educational and fun for all the family.

s unday 11 th

Glasgow Wellness Walk

Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow

9.30am

Raise vital funds for Diabetes UK this summer. The 8-mile walk will pass sights including the People’s Palace, the necropolis, Merchant City, the Duke of Wellington statue and the River Clyde. Register at https://glasgow-wellness-walk. diabetes.org.uk £10 registration fee for adults (children are free) and no minimum sponsorship.

Monday 12th - saTurday 17th

The Bridge Art Exhibition

Main Street, Bridge of Weir

Local artists exhibit their paintings which are also available to buy – a lovely gift to yourself or friends and family. We are featuring local artist Margaret Harcus who is raising funds for MnD charities.

Wednesday 14 th

Howwood Church Community Coffee Morning

Howwood Parish Church Hall, Main Street, Howwood 10am

Pop along for the company, and catch up with the village happenings.

Friday 16 th

Dementia Friendly Bingo

Afternoon Tea

Lochwinnoch Golf Club, Burnfoot Rd, Lochwinnoch PA12 4An 2pm to 4pm

Reaching people with Dementia, their carers/family, providing social interaction and support for older members of our community. More info: 07868 752814.

Farmers Markets

in June

saturday 3rd

Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm Community Centre

10am to 2pm

1st Saturday of the month

F /kilmacolmfarmersmarket

sunday 11th

Renfrew

Robertson Park

10am to 4pm

2nd Sunday of the month

F /RenfrewMarket

saturday 10th & 24th

Paisley

The Paisley Centre 10am to 2pm

F /pages/Paisley-FarmersMarket/207097172654332

saturday 17th

Bishopton & Dargavel

Bishopton Train Station Car Park

10am to 2pm

3rd Saturday of the month

F /The-BishoptonDargavel-Farmers-Market109902924512969

saturday 24th

Gourock

Gourock Train Station Car Park

10am to 2pm

Last Saturday of the month

F /The-Gourock-FarmersMarket-112064558070104

sat 24th & sun 25th

Barnhill Farm

Houston Road, Inchinnan 10am to 4pm

Last Weekend of the month

F /BarnhillAsparagus

sunday 25th

Erskine

Erskine Waterfront 10am to 4pm

Last Sunday of the month

F /Erskine-Riverside-Market101613198665127

Friday 16 th

Angel Voices Community Children’s Choir’s Concert

St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm

6pm

Come and Join us for our 10th Anniversary Celebrations. Contact: Maureen Russell: email maureenmrussell@hotmail.com Tel: 07905 950028.

s a T urday 17 th

Kilbarchan Agricultural Show

Monklands Farm, Roadside Field, Kilbarchan

Something for everybody to enjoy - animals, tractors, motorbikes, baking, crafts, trade stands, food and drink - details online: www. kilbarchanshow.co.uk/

Howwood Village Fete

Howwood Primary School, Semple View 1pm to 4pm includes a bouncy castle, licensed bar, tea room, DJ, hot dogs, craft stalls, home baking, tombola, bottle stall and fancy dress competition - our theme this year is “Decades”. Keep up to date on facebook: “The new & improved Howgood is Howwood”

Paisley CarFest

County Square, Paisley

10am to 4pm Free Event

Loads for the whole family to do with stalls, games and music. Everything from Mini’s to Muscle.

Barshaw Gala Day

Barshaw Park Glasgow Road, Paisley. Free event

it’s a fun day out for all the family with live entertainment provided by local groups, fun inflatables, free face painting and children’s workshops, community and craft stalls and more.

s unday 18 th

Have you remembered?

Why not treat your dad (or someone else’s) today?

Tuesday 20 th

Good Book Club

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 7.30pm

The book discussed will be ‘The Strawberry Girl’ by Lisa Stromme. Everybody is welcome to attend.

Heartstart Course

Masonic Hall, Collier Street, Johnstone 7pm Book a place call Morag on 07868 752814. Covering resuscitation, using an AED and more!

Thursday 22 nd

Kilmacolm & Houston Rock Choir Concert

Houston & Killellan Kirk, 13A Kirk Road, Houston PA6 7HW 7pm to 8pm

Singing upbeat feel good songs. Performance signed by ‘The Hands That Rock’ Leader Stacey Stockwell. All welcome! Donations on the door going to Alzheimers Scotland. www.rockchoir.com

s a T urday 24 th

Summer “Pop Up” Fayre

Langbank Village Hall, Langbank, PA14 6XB 12noon to 4pm

Unique Homeware, Jewellery, Candles, Handbags, Clothing And Accessories. For info contact stephlittle1973@gmail.com

saTurday 24th - sunday 25th

Renfrewshire Food & Drink Festival

Robertson Park, Longcroft Drive, Renfrew Free Family Event

With street food, continental food, live music, kids entertainment, deserts, bars and so much more!

s unday 25 th

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme Open Garden

The Bishop’s House, Kilmacolm 2pm to 5pm

One of six villas designed by James Salmon in 1905. Come and explore the grounds as they open their doors to the public. For directions go to page 39.

Coming Events in July

s a T urday 1 st

Accord hospice summer fayre

11 Christie St, Paisley PA1 1nB

A great day our for all the family! From games to facepainters, tea room to baking stalls, we have an amazing variety. Free entry.

saTurday 1st - Monday 31st

Summer Super Spotter Scavenger Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

9.30am to 4pm £3.50

See what wild discoveries you can make! Find the creatures and claim your prize once completed! Call 01505 842663.

FRIDAy 9th To SATuRDAy 24th JunE

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th June at 11am & 2pm

Johnstone Community Sports Hub Beith Road, Johnstone PA5 0JA.

Join Ranger Chris with his amazing herd of dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. Watch in amazement as the dinosaurs walk amongst the audience. Get up close and personal with lots of baby dinosaurs. Also take a look and learn about fossils with the UK’s largest map old dinosaur museum - Tickets £15.

Village News

Bridge of Weir Gala Day is back!

After the covid years, we had high hopes for last year which went really well, apart from the torrential rain and gale-force winds! We aren’t conspiracy theorists (yet!) so, undaunted, we are having another go!

Gala Day Programme

11.30am Parade entrants meet at Cargill Hall

12noon Parade leaves Cargill Hall

12.15pm Parade Awards Ceremony

12.30pm St Columba’s School Pipe Band Performance

12.45pm 2nd Port Glasgow

BB Marching Band Performance

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

1.30pm

Dance Performance from Dancewest Scotland

3.15pm Drawing of the Restaurant Raffle (tickets on Sale the Park Entrances)

4pm End of Gala Day

WARD 10: HOUSTON, CROSSLEE & LINWOOD www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/

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

As always we are indebted to our sponsors whose generosity is much appreciated and to the local restaurants and takeaways who have donated vouchers for the raffle in aid of Calums Cabins.

We l������ ��or������d ���� ��e����n�� ��o�� ��l�� a�� G��l�� ��a��. The Committee

The committee is made up of willing volunteers from various organisations within the village, as well as some individuals who just want to do their bit. New committee members are always welcome, especially those with great ideas.

Committee meetings are on the last Tuesday of each month at 7pm in Hope Hall. We are grateful to Hope Hall for the free use of their facilities.

Enquiries: info@bowfestival.org.uk / 07779 165888

Bring your creation to Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent at 11.30am on Gala Day and wear it / ride it / carry it in the Gala Day Parade all the way to Houston Park Road. Fantastic Prizes to be won!

Best Dressed House Competition

If you live in Lintwhite Crescent, Main Street or Houston Road, Bridge of Weir the Gala Day Parade will pass by your house. We’d love it if you could “do up” your house and garden for the occasion! (Gibb Stuart Vouchers for the winning houses!)

Best Dressed Shop Window Competition

If you run a business on the Parade Route please join in this village tradition and decorate your window. For the winning window we will make a donation of £100 to the charity of your choice

For information check out our facebook page or call: 07779 165888

The Bridge

Father’s Day - Have you remembered FATHER’S DAY which is celebrated on Sunday 18th June?

Why not purchase a card from our selection to let your Dad know how much he is appreciated?

Shop - TOYS, TOYS, TOYS. Do you know that we stock a variety of inexpensive small toys useful as gifts for birthday or other occasions for the wee ones?

Also colouring and dot to dot books, paints, chalks, playing cards - ‘Snap’ and so on. All this in addition to our stock of greetings cards, gift and bottle bags, wrapping paper and a variety of stationery items. The Bridge shop is wholly manned by volunteers to generate income to subsidise the Post Office. Please use us as often as you can, otherwise we risk losing the Post Office facility in Bridge of Weir.

Art Exhibition – Paintings by local artists are exhibited in The Bridge. They are also for sale – a lovely gift to yourself or friends and family. From 12th June – 7th July we are featuring local artist Margaret Harcus who is raising funds for MND charities.

Pre Loved Books - We have a selection of children’s books in excellent condition at 50p. Of course, we also have a big selection of books for grown ups too- fiction, biographies, special interest - all sorts. Mostly also costing 50p. In March alone, we had over 100 new titles handed in, so there is always something on the shelf you haven’t read.

Post Office - Are you struggling to find a gift for a special occasion? A gift card, which can be exchanged in many outlets, may be the answer. Please ask Donald, Fiona or Tracy for details.

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

Cllr Robert Innes: cllr.robert.innes@renfrewshire.gov.uk 0300 300 1253

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

WARD 11: BISHOPTON, LANGBANK & BRIDGE OF WEIR www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/

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

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

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

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

Cllr Christopher Curley: christopher.curley@inverclyde.gov.uk 07768 460073 | 01475 712370

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

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

The parade will leave Cargill Hall at 12noon

brookfield village hall

Karate:

Adults & children welcome (7+ yrs)

T 07850 407442

F Johnstone Tora-Kai Karate

Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Zumba®:

E gems_paisley@hotmail.com

Tuesday 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Ballroom/Latin:

New members welcome. Private lessons available.

T Stewart 07710 464 969

E ballroombasics@live.co.uk

Thurs 7pm - 8pm (Beginners)

Thurs 8pm - 9pm (Intermediate)

Sat 11am - 12.30pm (Mixed Ability)

Sun 11am-12.30pm (MixedAbility)

Yogabellies:

Suitable for all levels of experience!

E yogabellieslyndsey@outlook.com

Sun 6pm - 7.15pm (for Pregnancy)

Sun 7.30pm - 8.30pm (Hatha Flow for all)

Mon 10am - 11am (for Mum & Baby)

The Ballet & dance Company:

E suzanne@balletanddanceacademy.co.uk

Friday 3.15pm - 4pm (pre school) 4pm - 5pm (P1 -P3) 5pm - 6.30pm (P4 - S2)

DDP Yoga:

Fullbodyworkouttoimproveflexibility, strength, balance & cardio fitness.

T Laura 07474 443505

E energisewithlaura@gmail.com

Monday 6.15pm - 7.15pm

Councillor Surgeries

(Village Hall Library)

Audrey Doig - Thu 8th @ 6.30pm - 7pm

AlisonAnn-Dowling-Fri16th@10.30am-11am

Robert Innes - Tue 20th @ 6pm - 6.30pm

E brookfieldvillage.org

F brookfieldvpa@gmail.com

t @BrookfieldVPA

ward 11 cllr james maclaren

Step up to volunteer! Like it or not, many of the things we all take for granted are enhanced by volunteers these days. For instance, volunteers run ‘The Bridge’ in which the post office can be found. Without these volunteers there would be no post office in Bridge of Weir. Brighter Bridge of Weir are a hard-working group of volunteers making the village look so smart with their sweeping and planting. Community Councils, who look out for the best interests of the villages and their inhabitants, are all volunteers. I have said it before, I rely on community councils to be my eyes to contact me to get things done/repaired/upgraded. All these groups need new blood or the strain can become too much for the few who give up their time. Many hands make light work, so please consider giving up some of your time for what may be an enjoyable hour or two.

Local Partnership committees met in May to agree a host of grants to worthy causes. Langbank Swing Park Regeneration group are applying for funding for new planters along Main Road and Christmas lighting. Bonnie Bishopton has a similar application for barrier planters and the Bishopton Week Group are looking for funding to help with Gala Day. I wish them all success with their bids and note that they are relying on volunteers to plant & maintain flowers, or for helping to run the event.

Further to last month’s article, my council motion to bring about some control and policing of noisy vehicles was successful and a report about this will come back to a future board meeting on how this might be stopped. After six months, we are still waiting for at least one street lamp in Bridge of Weir and others in Langbank to be repaired by Scottish Power. My council motion requesting the council to write to Scottish Power to speed up the repair process was accepted unanimously. Scottish Power have admitted failings and I will be meeting with them to discuss this.

Surgeries: 6.30pm - 7pm. Langbank Church - 1st Monday of the month; Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir – 2nd Monday of the month; Bishopton Community Centre – 3rd Monday of the month.

ward 11 cllr Fiona Airlie-Nicolson

As spring really starts to kick in and people become more active in and around their local communities, so does the level of work and incoming mail from all areas filling up a councillors daily diary.

As a snapshot of a range of these issues.

Attending meetings with McGills on their proposal to withdraw and reduce a number of services across Renfrewshire. Meeting with the Police regarding their policing of the ward and also with Scottish Water regarding works on Main Street Bridge of Weir. Attending a variety of regular monthly meetings with community groups like Bridge of Weir and Langbank Community Councils and T.A.R.A - a local housing group who directly raise a wide variety of local issues from blocked drains on Houston Rd, unauthorised tree works, dumped material and flooding etc., it’s a very varied list, but the issues are important to those affected and the wider local community.

Roads - Renfrewshire Council publishes its road and footway programme for the year. This is an annual continuation of our £45 million investment in our roads and footways over a five year programme this year it includes;

• Bridge of Weir - Road Resurfacing, B790 Bridge of Weir Road (Houston Rd R/A to Main St), Craigbet Road, Bridge of Weir, Thornwood Road / Southbrae Avenue

• Footway resurfacing - Torr Road and Peat Road

• Langbank - Middlepenny Place/Road to Denniston Road. Middlepenny Rd (Railway to Main Rd)

The full list of roads are published on the councils website.

Brookfield Community Council

On Monday 8th May, Ellie Johnston of Brookfield planted a commemorative tree to mark the Coronation of King Charles III. In spite of drizzly weather the tree, a Sorbus Cashmiriana, was lovingly put in place. Ellie ‘talked’ to it and reminded it to grow strongly and blossom into a pretty tree. When established, the tree will have pink flowers in spring and bunches of white berries in autumn.

Ellie’s daughter from Canada joined her mum for the planting ceremony and afterwards friends and neighbours gathered in the Village Hall to enjoy tea and home baking.

Congratulations again this year to local community groups who have successfully received funding from the Council s local partnership boards. These boards are made up of local councillors and members of a wide range of community groups, who decide on grant applications and on a wide range of policy matters and issues for their local communities. These awards alongside the celebrating Renfrewshire fund which is organised by our youth and our Village Investment Fund. This was topped up once again in this year’s budget by £200k to continue to support specific village improvements. All details of these funds are also on the council’s website: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/villagesinvestmentfund

T 0300 300 1253 E cllr.fiona.airlie-nicolson@renfrewshire.gov.uk

lANGBANK village hall

Summer Beauty Event

3rd June 12.30pm – 10.30pm

Summer Pop up Fayre featuring local female entrepreneurs 24th June – time tbc

WEEKLY CLASSES

Monday

Move It or Lose It 9.30am

Tuesday

Pilates with Petra 9.30am Dru Yoga with Claire and Jo 9.30am

Wednesday

Circuits with Alyssa 6pm

Thursday

Seasonal Flow Yoga 10am with Mo (starts June 1st)

Pilates with Petra 6.15pm

Friday

Langbank Playgroup 9.30am

Dynamic Yoga with Petra 5.30pm

Sunday

Dog Obedience Classes 10am ALL WELCOME

For more information on any of these events or activities or to hire the hall contact Judy on facebook @ Langbank Village Hall

Langbank Coffee Morning For Alzheimer’s Scotland

A massive thank you to everyone who came along to the coffee morning in Langbank Village Hall, we raised an amazing £1,275 on the day and with the Just Giving page we have raised over £2,000 and counting …… your generosity and support has blown us away.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success and to the army of bakers who donated the most delicious cakes, we couldn’t have done it without you.

Alzheimer’s Scotland support people with dementia and their families to make sure nobody faces dementia alone.

Julie Gilmour is running the Glasgow 10k on Sunday 18th June for Alzheimer’s Scotland, if you would like to show your support, please visit the JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/julie-gilmour-1679396702715?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_ medium=one_page&utm_content=page/julie-gilmour-1679396702715&utm_campaign=pfpwhatsapp&utm_term=e12262d650e147d5aab567a940dd2129

Houston Agricultural Show

Saturday 3rd June

Come and join us for another year of celebrating Houston’s Agricultural heritage and modern farming. Featuring and supported by local businesses.

Take Part in Houston’s Got Talent Come and see the wonderful creative craft and baking entries in the Big Tent. As well as watching our brilliant talent and dog shows. So much to take part in.

Livestock Show - The Field & Main Ring Come and meet our local livestock and farming community. Pick your favourites from our ponies, light horses, Clydesdales, cattle, sheep and more.

Volunteer - We Need You!

The show is run by volunteers and we always need more helpers planning and on show day. Could it be you? Get in touch.

houstonshow@hotmail.co.uk

mo-secretary - 07734 150445

kerry - assistantsecretary - 07879437793

Renfrewshire Labour’s Better Buses campaign has taken on a new urgency with more cuts to McGills bus services, so I have called for a series of public meetings across Renfrewshire as part of the fight back for better bus services. You’ll have a chance to have your say and keynote speakers will address the problems that need to be fixed to restore a decent public bus service. We’re calling for changes like fare caps and a return to buses under local control.

The first meeting will be held Tuesday 6th June, 7pm in Tweedie Hall, Linwood. At the meeting you can register your interest to join a Renfrewshire buses steering group. If you can’t make the meeting you can sign the petition to save our buses at www.BetterBusesRenfrewshire.co.uk. Many local services have been reduced in frequency, with fewer evening or weekend services and not many villages have train stations to provide an alternative form of transport.

A well-connected, affordable public transport system is a vital service for our communities in village locations. Inadequate bus services shut people out of employment, education, social activities and healthcare. The inevitable increase in car use also has consequences for our environment.

H.O.S.T

The Carrick Centre, Houston

Coffee Shop: CLOSED due to renovations - 01505 229597

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

Dance West Scotland: enquiries@dancewestscotland.co.uk

MONDAY

Houston & Killellan Kirk

We have made a cracking start on our Community Garden, as part of the Big Help Out, thanks to an enthusiastic team of volunteers. Despite the rain we managed to clear a large area of ground and the site looks much better already. We even had a couple of special visitors (‘King Charles III and Queen Camilla’) who popped in before we went inside to for delicious cream teas.

Weekly

DWL R2 4pm

TUESDAY

DWL 4pm

Hazel Connelly Art Class 1.15pm 6th & 13th

Cricketfield Owners Ass. R5 19th @ 7pm

Yoga - Laura Jane Lawson 7pm

WEDNESDAY

Community Council R4 21st @ 7.30pm

DWL 11am

DWL 3.30pm - 7pm

Moo Music 9.45am 12.30pm

Cllr Audrey Doig Surgery 19th@ 7pm

THURSDAY

Gryffe Quilting Group 1pm - 3pm 8th & 22nd 10am / 3pm 1st & 15th)

Folk Club 8pm

Move it or Lose it 10.30am – 11.30am

DWL 3.30pm

FRIDAY

Mr & Mrs McGhee MH 9am

DWL 3.30pm - 7pm

Houston Show MH 2nd @ 7.30pm

Yoga - Laura Jane Lawson 10.30am

Natalie Don MSP 2nd @ 12.30pm

Gavin Newlands MP 9th @ 12.30pm

Cllr Alison Ann Dowling 16th @ 11.15am

SATURDAY

DWL 9.30am - 5pm

Cllr Robert Innes 17th @ 11am

SUNDAY

Baptist Church 11am & 6pm

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

Booking enquiries:

T Bill Haddow 01505 690693

T Stewart Scally 01505 674277

T John McDougall 07735 473645

E thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

E hostbookings@outlook.com

Congratulations to P3 pupil Michaela Hughes, who decided to support Renfrewshire Foodbank as part of her Zero Waste Badge for Brownies. She raised £117 and used the money to buy 114 items. Well done, Michaela, and thank you to everyone who supported her. We have recently linked up with Langbank Church, who will drop off their foodbank collections to us every month, boosting the items that we send on to Renfrewshire Foodbank. Wonderful to be working together!

Jack McKechnie, Ian Gray and Jim McLaughlin successfully completed the ‘Mighty Stride’ as part of Glasgow’s Kiltwalk, raising money for two of our Kirk charities, MND Scotland and Parkinson’s UK. Well done!

Houston Hello

Houston Hello, our dementia inclusive drop in café, continues to be great fun and a popular place to be on the 2nd and 4th Thursday afternoon of each month. On 11th May we celebrated the King’s Coronation with some wonderful coronation cupcakes made by Bumblebee Bakes, Bridge of Weir that looked and tasted amazing – and we had great fun with our new parachute, as well as singing and dancing to our favourite music.

Following the success of our Ceilidh in March to raise funds for the group, we have been able to buy a new sound system, which was badly needed. We have also booked some fabulous entertainment and activities for the coming months.

We are delighted that musician Daniella will be joining us for some Singing for Wellbeing on the 4th Thursday of each month, and Kilmacolm Rock Choir will join us on the 8th June.

Please join us for a great afternoon, all are welcome. If you need any further information, please contact Frankie Greenwood on 07817 210777 or email familyandcommunity.houstonkirk@gmail.com.

The Carrick is looking for a person interested in a part time Management position starting in June. Basically 1 week on 2 weeks off, with flexibility to cover small projects, contact us on any of the provided numbers or emails.

As the first shoots of summer periodically appear, my mind is turning to the vast range of community events which take place in my ward. I very much enjoyed attending the annual Houston Kirk Carnival as I always do and I am looking forward to the annual Houston Agricultural Show, which showcases the very best of what Scottish agriculture both produces and brings to our tables. I am biased of course, but both my ward and the adjacent ward, which my husband represents, have a fantastic range of local gala days and events of that kind and we both love attending them all together.

Over the last month I particularly enjoyed attending the annual Brookfield Art Show in the Village Hall. I enjoyed meeting village residents and listening to their concerns and am so glad to see that the Art Show is one of many events up and running again after Covid.

As the weather improves and we all like to get out more, I appeal to everyone to do all they can to battle the constant problem of littering. This problem can get worse at certain times, and summer tends to be one of these periods. I know that the vast majority of people are decent and conscientious individuals and that we are only dealing with a small irresponsible minority, but I feel I have to reinforce the point that we all have a duty in this regard.

Surgeries: Thursday 8th June @ 7pmBrookfield Village Hall, Wednesday 14th June @ 6.30pm - Linwood TESCO Café and on Wednesday 21st June @ 7pm - Carrick Hall, Houston.

T 07768 130 935

E cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Tuesday 20th June at 7pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch (Main Street)

The second Heartstart course in 2023

To book a place call Morag on 07868 752814

We will cover resuscitation and using a AED and more!

The old library centre kilbarchan

opening Times:

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

Monday

Spanish Conversation 2pm - 3.45pm (Ran by U3A)

Tuesday

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

Board Games 2pm - 4pm (1st Tuesday of the month - ran by U3A) Book Group 7.15pm - 8.30pm (once a month)

Wednesday

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

Thursday

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

Family History 7pm (3rd Thursday of the month, next meeting 15th June. There will be no meetings in July or August.)

We have a “drop in” in the Reading Room where you can have a cup of tea/coffee and biscuit for £1, have a chat or browse through some books. The weather is getting warmer and we have a lovely seating area outside in the Hidden Garden, you will be welcome to have a look around the garden and have a refreshment outside.

We will be closing on Friday 30th June and will re-open on Tuesday 1st August. We hope everyone connected with Centre has a great Summer break and hope to see you all when we open in August. Please phone or email for further information.

The Old Library Centre

9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, PA10 2EF

Kipco is a Scottish charity, SC031251, and is run by volunteers

T 01505 706070

E kipcokil@hotmail.com W www.kipco.org

WARD 10 cllr Robert Innes

As a dad to two young children at this time of year I enjoy visiting local gala days and fetes. Days like this, where communities can come together, are so important and it’s always so impressive to see how much effort has gone into the events whether that’s through the organisers themselves, local groups, organisations and charities, as well as local schools. I had the pleasure of getting along to the Kirk Carnival last month and it was a brilliant day. The theme, recognising 100 years of Disney, was excellent and it gave my daughter a reason to dress up as Princess Elsa for the day (not that she needs an excuse). Well done to everyone that makes events like this possible.

I also had a great meeting recently with the newly formed group - Creating a Sustainable Gryffe. The group, from Houston and Bridge of Weir, is looking at ways they can take action to be more sustainable locally, support carbon reduction and combat the climate crisis. Potential activities are active travel and safe cycling routes, better connecting the villages and towns of Renfrewshire, promoting biodiversity in our villages, developing community energy and exploring the options of many other exciting potential projects. Climate change is the biggest issue we face as a planet, not just as a local community. I wish this group well and look forward to hearing more from them in the future on some of these vital issues.

Last month marked a year since I became a councillor for the Houston, Crosslee and Linwood ward. It’s been a quick year, but equally an extremely important one for me. My biggest highlight of the year has been helping the people who have come to me for assistance - that’s what it’s all about. As always if you ever have an issue you want to discuss with me please get in touch.

Contact info: T 0300 300 1253

E cllr.Robert.Innes@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Kilbarchan Lilias Day

Saturday 3rd June

Park opens at 12noon and parade starts at 1pm

The countdown is on to Lilias Day! With just a few days to go, make sure you come along and enjoy the fun. This year’s head line entertainers are The Clan Cycle Stunt display team. We also have Lochwinnoch Samba band, Frank Karpo’s magic show, Science workshops, Wipe out, a Live music tent sponsored by Amplify Music and Southside Sessions, our award winning Pipe Bands and much more! Our full line up can be found at Liliasday. co.uk or on our Facebook page.

Sewing & Craft Class

Every Tuesday from 12noon - 2pm in Howwood Village Hall

Make draft excluders, curtains etc. £1.50 per class. All Howwood residents welcome. No experience needed. Sewing machines provided. Run by Howwood Community Council.

Entrance to the park is £2.50 for adults and 50p for kids. We keep the prices low so that you can support local charity and community group stalls.

We’re delighted to announce our Lilias leading roles:

Amy Sharp and Skye Stockton are our joint Miss Lilias’ (pictured right)

Colin Arthur is this years’ Habbie Simson (picured left).

The school Queen is Heidi Galbraith, the King is Jakob Burke and their attendants are Abbie Burt and John Slaven (pictured above right)

Congratulations to all of you and we hope you have a fantastic Lilias Day!

Howwood Village Fete

Saturday 17th June - 1-4pm - Howwood Primary School

It’s almost time for the ‘How Good is Howwood’ Fete and we have a great day planned. We really hope that our village and neighbours will come together for a fun afternoon and support the local groups and organisations who work hard to put on this event.

We have lots to keep the whole family entertained on the day including: a bouncy castle, licensed bar, tea room, DJ, hot dogs, craft stalls, home baking, tombola, bottle stall, and fancy dress competition - our theme for this year is “Decades”. Also, OneRen will be putting on FREE games and activities for the kids. Tickets for the grand draw are available from local groups and ‘How Good is Howwood’ committee members. There are some great prizes including dinner, bed and breakfast for 2 at the Bowfield Hotel, a meal for 4 at the Boarding House, a round of golf for 4 at Caldwell Golf Club and afternoon tea for 2 at Gleddoch Hotel.

Stalls are still available at a cost of £20. If you have been busy crafting or have a business/ organisation you’d like to promote, please contact us. You can keep up to date with everything and contact us via the “The new & improved Howgood is Howwood” Facebook page.

ward 9 cllr andy doig

Sadly McGill’s Buses rejected my idea to re-route the evening 307 service into the Easwaldbank area of Kilbarchan to give villagers more transport choice. Renfrewshire Council has agreed to a full review of bus and train provision in Renfrewshire and I am fully behind taking buses back into civic control. What we do need is a united front of all local MSP’s, of all parties, to persuade Holyrood to give local authorities the money to do so, as the legislation is already in place to allow reregulation.

At the last full council meeting I supported a motion from ward colleagues congratulating the Weavers Cottage on its 300th anniversary. In turn I was pleased that all three ward Councillors supported an amendment which I lodged to that motion calling for a £700,000 programme of investment in the Steeple Hall and a wide-ranging consultation with the village on the option of rebranding the Steeple Hall as an outreach museum of the rejuvenated Paisley Museum, with the Weavers Cottage and the Steeple Hall working closely to promote visitor tourism for Kilbarchan. This was agreed unanimously.

Council officers have informed me that they will not install physical chicanes at Bowfield Road in Howwood as they feel it is not necessary. Other Ward Cllrs and I profoundly disagree with this and will be keeping an eye on the development.

Many Lochwinnoch residents were deeply saddened by the tragic fire at Viewfield Pavilion earlier in the year, which saw significant damage take place. I have made enquiries and council officers have informed me that it might be the case that the building was covered by the Council’s insurance, despite it being leased. I have informed Viewfield Rovers FC of this and hope they get financial compensation to allow them to re-establish their amenities at Viewfield Park.

ward 9 cllr gillian graham

I continue to receive concerns from Kilbarchan residents about the level of noise at Kilbarchan Quarry. With Kilbarchan Community Council we are keeping a record of the dates and times involved. Whilst we all want businesses to thrive, we must also ensure it’s not disruptive to residents. I’m meeting with the Council on this and will ask that they check the noise levels to ensure that they are within the allowed levels. I’m hopeful any problems can be resolved.

We’re still waiting for the results of the Safe Walking Survey in Kilbarchan. This will identify speeding and parking issues in the village. I’m convinced we need traffic calming in ALL our villages particularly as traffic enters the villages (gateways). North Ayrshire has these in place, it’s time Renfrewshire took the same approach. This month I’ll be in Kilbarchan and Howwood with a roads inspector to look at concerns which have been raised with me by local residents.

As we head into the early summer its gala day time once again! I’m particularly looking forward to Kilbarchan Lilias Day, Howwood and Lochwinnoch Gala Days. As always, I’ll be manning the Scottish Labour Party stall at both Lilias and Lochwinnoch. I always enjoy these events, they bring the community together for a day of fun and enjoyment whilst raising much needed funds for local organisations. Along with my fellow Labour Councillor Chris Gilmour, I’m delighted to sponsor the fancy dress competition at Lochwinnoch Gala this year. I’m also chuffed to be sponsoring 3 competition classes of sheep (tups) again this year at Kilbarchan Agricultural Show on Saturday 17th June.

Surgeries: My surgeries are cancelled for June, but I’ll be available (where the people are) at Kilbarchan Lilias Day Saturday 5th June and Lochwinnoch Gala Day Saturday 12th June. Please do come to our stall and say hello.

T 0300 300 1268 E cllr.gillian.graham@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Surgeries: 2nd Wednesday of the month Lilybank Bowling Club, Johnstone at 6.30pm and The Old Library, Kilbarchan at 7.30pm. 4th Wednesday of the month Howwood Bowling Club at 6.30pm, and Lochwinnoch Bowling Club at 7.30pm.

T 07534 148 224 t CllrAndy4Ward8

E cllr.andy.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk

F IndependentVoice/Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages

Kilbarchan Parish Church

Services continue on Sundays at 11am, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith, with Junior Church meeting from 10.45am in the hall. Come along and join us after the service for refreshments and chat in the hall. On Sunday 25th June, there will be the Sacrament of Holy Communion at 11am in the church.

Midweek Fellowship has now finished for the summer and will resume in September.

Cuppa at the Kirk - You are all invited to come along any-or everyTuesday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm to enjoy coffee and chat in the Parish Church hall. The last day is on Tuesday 27th June and the Cuppa will resume in September.

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club - The club has the annual summer party on Monday 26th June at 9.45am in the hall and, weather permitting, the grounds. After the holidays, the club starts on Monday 4th September from 9.15am - 11.30am.

Lilias Day - Come along and visit the Parish Church and Eco group stall in the park on 3rd June.

Kilbarchan National Women’s Register

On 17th May, 61 members from the area met for lunch at the Boarding House in Howwood, when we had an inspirational speech from Corinne Hutton, talking about sepsis and being the first Scottish double hand transplant recipient.

Howwood Church

In June, we have a varied syllabus-Body Boost Bingo, Discussion about the monarchy’s involvement in the slave trade, coffee mornings and an end of session dinner in the River Inn. A visit and walk at Whitelea Wind farm and visitor centre

The Book Group will discuss “The Dictionary of Lost Words” and hopefully the Walking Group will enjoy several walks during June. During the last week of June and the first 2 weeks of July, The National Big Walk will take place , with groups all over the country encouraged to note their mileage and venues. For further info about our group and NWR, phone 703786 and visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

Here we are into June and fast approaching holidays. Gardens are starting to bloom with many colours.

The Community Coffee morning is on Wednesday 14th June at 10am. Apologies for stating 11am last month to those who missed out on the biscuits. This will be the last one before stopping for July and August for the holidays.

Please come and join us at our services on a Sunday. Everybody will be very welcome. Lovely hymn singing and excellent sermons. Cup of tea or coffee after the service to catch up with old and new friends. Service starts at 10am every Sunday..

Kilmacolm new Community Centre

Centre & Café close for summer break at 3.30pm on Fri. 30th June, reopening 9am on Mon. 10th July

ward 1 cllr david wilson

Network Officers at Strathclyde Partnership for Transport have carefully assessed the 6 month trial subsidy of the 530 McGill’s Bus service from Kilmacolm to Port Glasgow. The patronage could be better, but for many it is their only lifeline to attend work, health centres, further education and the Inverclyde Royal Hospital. The subsidy has been extended for a further 3 years at a cost of £187,404 (£62,468 pa).

Bus patronage (80-90%) has not recovered from the pandemic and there are significant increases in operating costs (+25%) and a shortage of drivers. We are seeing many route and timetable changes in Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, Lanarkshire, Glasgow and Ayrshire. Inverclyde retains an excellent bus service. SPT administers 27 Home to School Transport contracts carrying some 990 pupils in Inverclyde. In the main matters run smoothly, but a shortage of taxi drivers did cause a few problems on the run to Port High. These have been resolved. With monies from the Scottish Government we will offer every child from P1-7 access to a healthy, nutritious lunch at no cost to their families from the start of the 2023/24 term in August. I am delighted that it is universal as everybody needs a wee help with current costs of living.

KPS had a peer group assessment on HMI objectives ie leadership, equality/inclusion, learning and raising attainment and achievement. The school was assessed as having one excellent and three very goods. This is excellent and matches previous successful tests on literacy and numeracy.

I am looking forward to the presentation of prizes ceremonies at St Columba’s junior and senior schools. Splendid affairs graced by Dame Eleanor Laing, deputy speaker of the House Of Commons.

The cattle show had great weather. The society has now had a successful agricultural show and whist drive. Carriages ran an excellent Coronation function. Outlook in the Kidston Hall was similarly well attended with their Regal special.

We had one Osprey nest last year and two chicks were ringed. One of the youngsters landed in Barbados instead of North Africa, probably hitched a lift on a ship.

“The Steamie” was quite superb and thoroughly deserved the adulation and encores at the end. The Kilmacolm Dramatic Society deserves great praise for their presentation of a Glasgow classic. Roll on the Panto.

I am supportive of the new pavement at St James Terrace, except for the over enthusiastic application initially of cones and traffic lights. I had received complaints about the pavement and it is important that we maintain the fabric of the village.

Surgeries: Saturday 17th June 10am - 11am at the Cargill.

Kilmacolm & Houston Rock Choir Concert

The Kilmacolm & Houston Rock Choir invite you to come along to an end of term performance held at the Killellan & Houston Church, Kirk Road, in Houston on Thursday 22nd June at 7pm. The choir will be singing a host of upbeat feel good songs and will be led by Rock Choir Leader Jennifer from Kilbarchan. The performance will be signed by The Hands That Rock Leader Stacey Stockwell. All welcome! The performance will last around an hour and is not ticketed, with donations on the door going to Alzheimers Scotland. For more information about local rehearsals or to find out more about Rock Choir visit www.rockchoir.com

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society

Our Spring Production of ‘The Steamie’ lived up to everyone’s expectations. Every night, we played to almost full houses - with the audience’s wholehearted participation and appreciation. We would like to thank you all most sincerely for your continued support of our productions.

From the feedback we received, everyone’s experience was greatly enhanced by our improved sound system; including an audio loop. Our thanks to Inverclyde Council’s Community Grants Scheme for their most welcome contribution to this project.

Planning is already underway for the Winter Show. Our pantomimes always have a big cast and an army of volunteers working backstage to bring the show to life. If you’re at all interested in being part of our show, on stage or behind the scenes, this is a great opportunity for you to join us. Check out our website to get contact details: kilmacolmdramaticsociety. co.uk. or call Mandy our secretary on 07719 309960.

St Columba Church Coronation Lunch

On Sunday 7th May we had a wonderful time with over 50 people attending.

All thanks to Agnes McGarva, her family and members of St Columba for all of their hard work.

Windy Hill Art Club Inaugural Exhibition

Saturday 3rd June, 10am until 2pm @ Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm

There will be over 100 pieces of artwork of different media on display. One corner of the show is bound to be familiar as you will see pictures of our local businesses recreated in acrylic paint for the “Village Still Life” section. Projects such as lino printing, impasto acrylic and floral art have also kept us busy. There is a mystery picture to which every member has contributed. It will be revealed at the exhibition. Hope to see you there and hear your feedback on our first exhibition.

L to R: Rebecca Colvin, Kate Watt, Megan Smith, Andrew Hillcoat and Anne Crawley

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

SOLAS: The Solas bereavement drop-in group will be meeting in the Lounge of the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm, on Thursday 8th June at 2pm. As always, this meeting is open to all with no pre-registration required. Solas 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, Solas 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 1st June - St Columba’s Junior School flautist group visit. Thursday 15th June - Old Kirk elder Stuart Wilson in conversation to describe his footsteps in life that have led to his decision to undertake training in the Ministry for the Church of Scotland.

OUTLOOK held a special afternoon two days prior to the King’s Coronation, when Renfrewshire Lord-Lieutenant Colonel Peter McCarthy welcomed everyone with a short summary of his ensuing journey to Westminster Abbey for the Coronation, displaying his royal invitation for attendance. We were most grateful for his words of wisdom, with a prayer. He handed over a letter for the Old Kirk, from Buckingham Palace, which conveyed the King and Queen’s thanks and good wishes to all communities that had organised celebrations to mark the Coronation. The happy afternoon included a Coronation quiz, flower arranging competition, and a superb royal raffle draw, concluding with a sparkling afternoon tea made by the OUTLOOK team.

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.

GOOD BOOK CLUB: Tuesday 20th June. The Good Book Club will meet in the Kidston Hall Lounge at 7.30pm. The book discussed will be ‘The Strawberry Girl’ by Lisa Stromme, a former Kilmacolm resident. Everybody is welcome to attend.

Sunday Worship takes place in Kilmacolm Old Kirk every Sunday at 11am. Refreshments are served after the service for all to enjoy some companionship. All our services are streamed online through our Facebook Page @kilmacolmold and can be watched live or at any point afterwards for those who cannot attend. You can also follow us on Twitter and Instagram via @KilmacolmOld or visit our website http://kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk/

I have received a generally positive reaction to the pavement improvements in the centre of Kilmacolm. While the works are causing some disruption, hopefully the short-term pain will prove to be worth it. These works are being financed from special funding from the Scottish Government and not from the Council’s roads’ budget.

Following the rejection of a petition from residents asking for a formal pedestrian crossing on St James’ Terrace, the Council’s Environment & Regeneration Committee has asked Officers to look at alternative options for improving pedestrian safety at this location and report back to the Committee.

At the time of writing the play area extension in Birkmyre Park is nearing completion. Officers are still considering the best option for lowering the picnic tables.

The Council is currently consulting on a new scheme of establishment for community councils in Inverclyde. There are no fundamental changes that affect Kilmacolm and Quarrier’s other than a suggested change to the name from ‘Kilmacolm Community Council’ to ‘Kilmacolm and Quarrier’s Village Community Council’ to better reflect the area the community council covers. Community Councils play an important role in representing the views of their residents to the Council and other public bodies. If you are interested in finding out more why not come along to the next meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council at 7.30pm on 27th June in Kilmacolm Community Centre.

The Council’s Education and Communities Committee has approved a proposal to extend universal free school meals to all pupils in P6 & P7 from August, a year in advance of the Scottish Government’s target date. The Council can do this as we don’t need as much funding from the Scottish Government as other Councils due to the modern kitchen and dining facilities we already have in our schools.

SurgerY: Kilmacolm Community Centre on Tuesday 13th June from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

Angel Voices Community Children’s Choir

Come and Join us for 10th Anniversary Celebrations St Fillan’s Church, Moss Road, Kilmacolm

Sunday 9th June: A Musical Thanksgiving Service at 4pm with refreshments in the hall afterwards.

Friday 16th June: Choir Concert at 6pm. We would be delighted if former choir members and their families would like to come to the 10th Anniversary Events! Contact: Maureen Russell: email maureenmrussell@hotmail.com Tel: 07905 950028.

Free Dementia Singing Sessions

Until Tuesday 13th June from 1pm - 2.30pm (with a free lunch included) at St Fillans Church Hall, Moss Road, Kilmalcolm - Spaces are limited to 25. Family and friends really encouraged to come along too!

The sessions will be delivered by Daniela Hathaway and pianist David Mackie and Eleanor Tasker. We will start with a lovely lunch to get to know each other, then we will do some fun body warm ups. We will sing well known songs, learn some new ones, go for a dance and build a bank of favourite songs.

Call Daniela 07949 071653 for details.

Schools & Sports

St Fillan’s Parent Council Summer Fayre

Friday 9th June 6.30pm - 8.30pm

St Fillan’s Church Garden, 1A Main Street Houston

With an inflatable Assault Course, Bouncy Castle, Games, Face Painting, Pizza, Doughnuts, Hotdogs, Raffle and a Bar - there’s something for everyone! All welcome.

Entry £2 or buy a family ticket for £5

Langbank Primary School

Right 2 Dance

Our amazing ‘Our Story’ project culminated with us welcoming the community into school to watch the whole school perform our dance. The dance told the story of Langbank and the fond memories people have of living here. We were very lucky, the weather stayed dry and the pupils put on a fabulous show.

Bridge of Weir Primary Something Old and Something New

Health Week

At the beginning of May our pupils participated in a fabulous range of activities to help promote health and wellbeing. We had visitors teaching skills such as pilates and taekwondo. The Ark on The Clyde brought animals and children had fruit tasting and a healthy reading café. It was a great week thoroughly enjoyed by all!

Fun Run

Health week also saw the return of our Fun Run. The children ran from the school to the park to raise funds for the school. They enjoyed a play in the park and a well deserved ice lolly.

Something Old

Our Primary 7 pupils have been attending Ardentinny Outdoor Education Centre near Dunoon for many years and it was wonderful to go back again with this year’s Primary 7’s.

They were lucky to have the most beautiful weather to enjoy the activities the centre offers. Night walks, search and rescue, gorge walking, rock hopping, canoeing, team challenges, climbing and abseiling just some of the fantastic things they experienced. These all help to build skills such as resilience, co-operation and endurance. Making beds, setting tables, and clearing up also added to these valuable life experiences. There was also time for a lot of fun in free time activities and the Thursday night disco! I’m sure everyone agrees that a few days away from devices and phones was beneficial and the time at Ardentinny helps our primary 7 pupils be more prepared for the next stage in their lives.

Something New

New Primary 1

We are very much looking forward to welcoming our new Primary 1 pupils in August. There are induction afternoons on the 15th and 16th of June. All parents should have received information regarding this. Please contact the school office if you require further information.

Birkmyre Women Free Rugby Fit Class

Wednesdays 7-8pm. Meet at Birkmyre Park. No experience necessary!

For the first time our school entered the electric car challenge and race. Over the last few months, our fabulous STEM club, led expertly by Mr Lowit and Miss Pieczara and helped by members of the local Rotary Club and Gryffe High pupils, built their very own electric car. Then on 4th May they made their way to the Fife Goblins Greenpower Electric Car Race. As newcomers to the race, surrounded by other more experienced schools, the team did not know how they would get on. They needn’t have worried ... all the preparations and practise paid off. They triumphed in the Drag Race, the Slalom and the Full Circuit Race to be crowned Champions of 2023! To say we were proud is an understatement!

Many thanks go to the Parent Council, Lithium, Hothouse Medical Ltd, Gryffe Rotary Club, Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association and Bridge of Weir Leather Group who all supported and financed our ambition.

What a brilliant experience for everyone involved and a memory they will treasure for a long time.

St Columba’s

The Pipe Band in New York

During the Easter holidays, a cohort of 60+ pipers and drummers, along with an entourage of friends and family, flew to New York to take part in the iconic Tartan Day Parade up 6th Avenue (see cover photo). These pupils – ranging in age from 11 to 18 – are all dedicated members of the School’s Piping and Drumming programme, many of whom were part of Band I when it was crowned Novice B Champion of Champions in 2022.

They had a jam-packed schedule, including performances in Bryant Park and, of course, the Tartan Day Parade itself; however, it wouldn’t be a trip to the Big Apple without some sightseeing. During their visit, our pupils took trips to see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, as well as paying their respects at the 9/11 memorial at Ground Zero. This was an incredible trip, filled with amazing memories. A highlight for many took place on the last night when the Band performed a flashmob right in the middle of Times Square! It was an unforgettable experience for everyone!

Early Years Coronation Party

Coronation fever took over the Early Years room in the run up to King Charles III’s big day. Earlier in the week, the children had lots of fun making bunting, glittery crowns, and decorations with help from their friends at Campbell Snowdon. At the party, the children welcomed their parents and family into the school for tea, biscuits, and lots of other delicious treats. This was a wonderful occasion for everyone in Early Years and we hope that they will always remember how they marked this historic event.

Want to know more about becoming a Columban? Get in touch with our Admissions Registrar today.

You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up-todate with all of the goings on at St Columba’s. www.st-columbas.org | admissions@st-columbas.org

Kilmacolm Playgroup

It was an incredible farm week for the children at Kilmacolm Playgroup! We had a lovely day when Andrew and Laura from ‘Moovin Milk’ brought some calves and a tractor in to see us!! We were able to go into the trailer to see the cows and take turns sitting in the big tractor seat! We also had a visit from a new lamb that was brought in by one of our playgroup parents, the children enjoyed seeing what his fleece felt like! It was a real treat being able to let the children see these beautiful animals up close. Thank you ‘Moovin Milk’!!

Kilmacolm Playgroup operates during school term time on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 9.30am - 11.30am from St Columba Church Hall for children aged 2 years & 4 months to 5 years old. We provide a wide range of activities to promote physical, creative, imaginative and social development while inspiring confidence and building friendships. We also have our toddler group on a Wednesday morning 10am - 11.30am, this is a drop-in session that you can attend with your children from birth onwards. If you would like to reserve a space for playgroup please contact us at playgroupmembership@gmail.com

Duchal Nursery

We were blessed with a sunny Birkmyre Park for our annual Sports Day. Our budding young athletes rose to the occasion putting on a fine display. Supported by family and friends it was a morning that truly encapsulated everything that makes Duchal such a special Nursery. It was lovely to be part of the Kilmacolm Show, the children were very excited to see so many of their exhibits win prizes in the Industrial tent, and our stand gave welcome shelter from the glorious sunshine for children to play and relax.

The excitement is mounting for our summer trip which begins with a bus trip to Pollock Park where we are continuing our mini beast adventures, it will most definitely be a memorable day.

Thank you to those parents that have participated in our fun “mystery reader” sessions, the children love trying to guess who is joining us and really appreciate their special visitors, and we know the parents enjoy spending time with us.

As the end of year approaches fast, our older children are ready for that next step on to primary school, it has been lovely to welcome teachers from the local primary schools where our children will be progressing to in August, we know they are all well prepared for their next stage.

New Entries to Duchal: We now offer free pre-school education for 3 – 5yr olds every day (during term time) through the funded nursery scheme in conjunction with Inverclyde Council, ensuring Duchal is available to all children in the local area. Please get in touch for more information, we are open daily 8am – 6pm, offering greater flexibility of care for parents. Please visit our website for more information – www.duchal.com and find us on Facebook. If you would like to come and visit the Nursery please get in touch on 01505 874358 or email: info@duchal.com

Strathgryffe District Girlguiding

On Monday 8th May, 1st Bridge of Weir Guides took part in the village litter pick as part of The Big Help Out 2023. It was designated as a day of volunteering during the coronation bank holiday weekend. On a very wet day we spent an hour picking litter in the main car-park in Bridge of Weir and collected 10 full bags of rubbish. Afterwards we enjoyed afternoon tea in Freeland Church. Girlguiding Units of Rainbows, Brownies and Guides in Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm could not run without volunteers. If you could spare a few hours a week to help, please get in touch. At present we are urgently looking for volunteers for our Guide Unit in Kilmacolm. This Unit will close if we do not get more adult volunteers. Please register your interest at www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested There’s never been a better time to join in, lend a hand and make a change!

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club

Over the past month, we have seen the start of the golf season proper and The Old Course Ranfurly has been busy with the start of our 2023 competitions across all sections and the course is in fantastic order for this time of year which is a testament to our hard-working green keeping staff. The club was extremely proud to recently host the 2023 Gents Count Championship which was won by our very own club Champion Stewart Watt (pictured) who posted excellent rounds of 68 and 70 in testing conditions to claim the trophy. Well done Stewart!

At the beginning of May we said a fond farewell to our catering team and everyone at the club wishes Heather and Louise all the best for the future and a huge thank you for their fantastic service over the past 14 years.

The Ginger Cat Children’s Bookshop Book Reviews

Bluey: DadDy Putdown

ISBN: 9780241550571

Penguin Random House Children’s UK

It’s Bluey’s Dad’s turn to put Bluey and Bingo to bed, but will the Daddy Putdown go to plan?!

Dad has planned lots of fun games, but Bluey can’t stop thinking about Mum who is away at a baby shower. This gives Bluey a great idea, why don’t they have their own baby shower. Bluey creates a fun baby shower while Dad and Bingo make dinner. Before long it’s time for bed and time for Mum to come home. Mum is about to find out just how bedtime has gone... Perfect for age 2+

Ben Plants a ButTerfly Garden

ISBN: 9781839941757

by Kate Petty / Illustrated by Axel Scheffler / Nosy Crow Ltd

Everything in Ben’s garden is how he wants it, except for one sunny corner. How can Ben brighten up his garden? He loves flowers and he loves butterflies, so with a little help from worm and ladybird, Ben learns how to create the most beautiful butterfly garden. Filled with lift the flaps and a wonderful butterfly pop up, this book is published in collaboration with the National Trust and is both fun and educational. Find out how to plant seeds and help them grow and learn all about how caterpillars transform into butterflies. Perfect for age 3+

Witch Hat Atelier

by Kamome Shirahama

ISBN: 9781632367709

Manga is becoming increasingly popular and this beautifully-illustrated Manga story was voted one of the top 10 manga books of the year in 2018 by the Japanese manga industry. About a girl who longs for magic in her life and learns that, on the inside, she already is what she wishes she could be. In a world where everyone takes wonders like magic spells and dragons for granted, Coco is a girl with a simple dream: She wants to be a witch. But everybody knows magicians are born, not made, and Coco was not born with the gift for magic. She’s resigned to her un-magical life, until a travelling magician passes through her village and Coco learns what everybody ‘knows’ might not be the truth. For ages 10+

You Are a Story: A creative writIng Guide to find your voice and speak your truth

By Laura Dockrill / Illustrated by Lotte Cassidy

Celebrated writer Laura Dockrill knows that the best writing comes when you are speaking your own truth, with your own voice. Expressing yourself honestly is a powerful way to know yourself and grow to celebrate the exciting, creative, unique person you are. When you are a teenager, everything feels different. How are you supposed to figure out who you are when the rest of the world is asking you to be something else? It can be overwhelming,- but the best way to steer yourself through this crazy, brilliant time is to hold onto your sense of you. Laura’s stress-free invitations to creative writing encourage you to find your voice, celebrate it and use it. For creative teens.

Swap Shop Event

in the shop on Saturday 3rd June, from 1.30pm to 2.30pm for children to come along and trade Pokémon cards with each other.

35 Main St, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NR

Callum calls on runners to get on their marks for Paisley 10k

Scotland’s Callum Hawkins has urged runners to get on their marks as entries open for this year’s Paisley 10k.

The event takes place on Sunday 20th August and includes a 10k road race, as well as a fun run for adults and children it also attracts experienced club and international athletes.

Callum is a double Olympics marathon runner having competed in the 2016 Olympics in Brazil and in Japan in 2021. He is the Scottish record holder and the British all-time number three at that distance behind Mo Farah and Steve Jones.

Callum, from Elderslie, was joined in Paisley Town Centre by a group of young athletes from Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club, where they all train. The middle distance runners warming up for the race included: Lewis Hannigan, 19, from Paisley; Amy Teasdale, 16, from Kilmacolm; Oliver Patton, 16, from Quarriers Village and Zara Redmond, 15, from Houston.

There is more than £2,000 in prize money up for grabs in the 10K race and trophies for both boys and girls fun runners who are aged under 7, 8 to 11 year old and 12 to 15 year old.

*Early bird discount applies before Friday16th June

Online entries closing on Friday 18th August at 12noon, with no entries available on race day. The event is supported by Renfrewshire Council and sponsored by Kilbarchan AAC.

10K Road Race - £22 (£20 Early Bird*) | Fun Run Adult - £12 (£10 Early Bird*)

Fun Run Child - £8 (£6 Early Bird*) | Adult and Child Discount (U-16) - £14 (£12 Early Bird*) www.oneren.org/paisley-10k

Move it or Lose it!

This is the lovely Ellie, 92, who attends Move it or Lose it class in Bridge of Weir. Ellie has been invited to plant a tree in her local village to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III. Ellie has enjoyed being active throughout her life, playing hockey, ice skating and, latterly, badminton. Ellie is now a keen participant in our classes. Well done Ellie, we are very proud of you! You truly are an inspiration!

Kilmacolm Golf Club

The golf season is well and truly underway and we are seeing some great successes.

Congratulations to our Junior Captain, Alexander Farmer, on becoming the Renfrewshire County Boys Strokeplay champion for the 2nd consecutive year. Well played to our Junior Newton Shield team, led by Alexander, for winning their first match of the year 6-0 against Erskine let’s hope they keep up their great form.

Our Gents Newton Shield team have also got off to a brilliant start, winning their first 2 matches, beating Gleddoch 6-2 and then a 5-3 win against Renfrew. Many thanks to Graham Handley Chartered Accountants and Stuart Roberts from Kilmacolm Pro Shop for sponsoring the team and providing them with a very smart kit for the season, they are certainly looking great and playing great! The ladies teams are about to start their inter club matches with opportunities for all standards within the section to get involved whether it is as part of our Greenlees team, the Renfrewshire Evening League or our friendly Bronze matches – good luck to all.

Our Pro team are busy with plenty of group and individual coaching for juniors, ladies and gents, we hope you are all feeling the benefit and shooting some good scores, there have been plenty of club competitions where we have seen some great results.

Not had a chance to play at Kilmacolm? Why not look at our special visitor packages, membership opportunities or enter one of our Open days – go to www.kilmacolmgolfclub.com for more information.

Regular Meet Classes

Reebok Step Class

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of Weir (Opposite Amaretto)

Tuesday: 7pm

Miss the Original Reebok Step Class? Then come along for fun, fabulous music, full body workout, feel fantastic! Limited spaces available.

T 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

T Jennifer 07731 303709 E jennifer-mcghee@hotmail.co.uk

Clyde Physiotherapy Pilates classes

St Machars Church Hall, Bridge of Weir

Monday: 9.30am / 10.40am / 7pm

Booking essential. Zoom option also available.

T Yvonne 07786 224 367 E 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.

T Mo 07505 126 416

Move it or Lose it!

Gourock, Bridge of Weir, Greenock, Kilmacolm, Houston, Kilbarchan & Langbank (new class)

Classes aimed at ladies & gents over 60. We focus on Flexibility, Aerobic Health, Balance and Strength (FABS) exercises. Sessions include music to spark memories! First class free for new members W www.moveitorloseit.co.uk

F Move-it -or-lose-it-with-fiona

T Fiona 07811 766672

Sk fitness

Ranfurly Castle Golf Club, Old Pro Shop, Golf Course Road, Bridge of Weir

GROUP PT: Mon: 9am & 6pm, Tues: 7pm, Thurs: 9am, Frid: 9am

ULTIMATE FATBURN: Mon: 5pm, Tues: 8am, Wed: 9am, Thurs: 6.30am & 7pm, Frid: 6.30am

SIMPLY KEEP FIT: Wed: 7pm T Suzanne 07525 536070

Brookfield Bowling Club

Brookfield Bowling Club’s first competition of the year was for the Centenary Cup. The picture shows the winners, Eddie McGlashan, Angela Connell, Jean Monks and Andrew Duffield.

A week later the bowlers competed for the James Thom Trophy. This unusual competition, played in a triples format where players play three rounds of four ends, with different partners, opposition and rinks for each round. The winner was vice-president Scott McLaughlin. We are now totally open and new members are extremely welcome. Please phone: 07388 779215 or e-mail: Brookfield.Bowls@gmail.com or pop down on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday at 1.45pm and make yourself known.

Put your best feet forward!

A perfect opportunity to improve your fitness while enjoying a scenic walk and raising money for Diabetes UK along the way. The 8-mile walk starts and finishes at Kelvingrove Park, with groups of walkers setting off in waves from 9.30am to 11am.

The route will take you through a variety of interesting neighbourhoods in Glasgow, passing sights including the People’s Palace, the Necropolis, Merchant City, the Duke of Wellington statue and the River Clyde. Nearly five million people in the UK live with diabetes - a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. If not managed carefully, both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke.

There is currently no known cure for any type of diabetes!

As well as fundraising, you will receive advice on how you can improve your diet, exercise more and live well. You will receive a Wellness Journal to help plan training walks and lifestyle changes. Participants will have the opportunity to experience some Wellness sessions from experts in nutrition, wellbeing and mindfulness. There will also be incentives for fundraisers and access to a Facebook Community page. Register at https://glasgow-wellness-walk.diabetes.org.uk There is a £10 registration fee for adults (children are free) and no minimum sponsorship although we would love people to aim for £150 in sponsorship.

Strathgryffe Tennis Club

Pictured are children from local schools with student volunteers from West College participating at a Tennis Disability Festival at Strathgryffe Tennis Club. The club runs weekly Disability Tennis coaching classes for children with a range of additional support needs. If you know of someone who might be interested, email: info@strathgryffe.net

Strathgryffe is running an Open Day on Saturday 3rd June from 2pm. Play some tennis & squash with family and friends, have a session in our fitness suite and participate in our FREE tennis coaching sessions. There are classes available for the whole family. There will be a prize draw on the day.

For more information and to sign up to the event, go to https://clubspark. lta.org.uk/StrathgryffeLTC/Events

Brookfield Curling Club Prizegiving

Following on from a very successful 2022/23 season on the ice Brookfield Curling Club held their Prizegiving recently. The season runs from October to March and the club curl at Greenacres Curling Rink near Howwood on Monday evenings. We are very keen to encourage new members to come and join us in this great sport. If you’d like to “Give curling a go” why not contact club Secretary Marilyn Muir 01505 503761 - you will be made most welcome.

Top photo - Harrison Salver 2022 - Glen Thornton, Maureen Fraser, Ninuk Smith, John Tuck

Middle photo - Love Quaich 2023 - Marilyn Muir, Carol Hughes, John Tuck, Maureen Randall

Bottom photo - Hutcheson Torphy 2022 - Marilyn Muir, Glen Thornton, Alison Douglas

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club - Ladies

April has seen medal, team and trophy events filling the Ladies’ Diary. The Ann Lavety Memorial Trophy was won by Stephanie Watson. All those competing were treated to a drink at the bar by Gillian Lavety, who sponsored this popular event in honour of her mother.

The Pink Lunch, hosted by Mhairi Milne, raised a staggering £10,270 on the day for the charity Breast Cancer Now. With an opening speech from Lorraine Kelly (via video) everyone enjoyed an in-house catered meal and superb entertainment. Thank you to all bidders, winners and supporters (including those unable to attend) at this popular event.

Ranfurly Castle Ladies

The season has been very busy already with Wednesday competitions every week and the weather being kind. The first Stableford competition took place on 19th April - Silver Division winner was Marion Munro and Bronze Division winner was Gillian Donaghy. The Dorrie Hunter Trophy was played on 26th April - 1st was Sheila Biggart with a net 73 and 2nd was Morag Cunningham with a net 74. The monthly Medal was played on 3rd May - Silver winner was Marion Munro, net 74 and Bronze winner was Alison Templeton, net 72. Wednesday 10th May the annual Coronation Foursomes was held. - The winners were Sheila Biggart and Jan Macnab and they will now go forward to represent the club. On 17th May there was an extra medal and also the Medal finals for 2022 - The Silver winner of the Finals was Louise Cooper with a net 73 and the winner of the Bronze Finals was Kate Scott with a net 71. Congratulations to all the winners.

This year we saw the Crowning of King Charles III and so the Coronation Cup was played on 8th May to recognise this memorable occasion. This Trophy had both a Lady and Gents winners – Pauline MacEwan won the Ladies and David McDonald won the Gents. This is the first time this Trophy was played for in over 70 years.

There have been two team matches held, both at home - The West Renfrewshire League match took place on 2nd May against Gourock Golf Club. It was a pleasant evening and ended in a win for Ranfurly Castle. A friendly match, also against Gourock, which was played on Sunday 14th May - This was a foursomes format and Ranfurly took home advantage with a decisive win.

The Ladies Tri-am Open day will be held on Thursday 13th July and is now available to enter. To obtain an entry form go to the club website, select ‘MENU’ and click on ‘VISITORS’. On the drop down menu select ‘OPEN Competitions’ where you will find the entry form. Alternatively the Pro shop will be able to help you with this.

Castle Semple Sailing Club

With the weather improving our cadets section is now in full swing. Cadets sessions run twice a week, on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings, and are open to anyone aged between 8 and 17. No previous sailing experience is required and regular cadet sailors have a wide range of abilities from complete beginners, to experienced racers and tuition and safety cover is always provided. Don’t worry if you don’t have any kit – the club has wetsuits and buoyancy aids in a wide range of sizes and more than 20 club boats, ensuring that cadets can safely get out onto the water in most conditions, on their own or in groups. As well as the weekly sessions, cadets are often seen at races all over Scotland and are encouraged to take part in the standard club racing sessions.

If you’re interested, check out more details on our website https:// castlesemplesc.co.uk/cadets-and-junior-training/ or email: info@ castlesemplesc.co.uk – we’d love to see you down on the water!

Fiona MacPhee, Elaine Penman, Gillian Lavety & Karen Ravenscroft

Royal Gourock yacht club Open Day

Royal Gourock might once have been considered a posh club for wealthy yachties, but as could be seen on the Open Day in May it has been transformed into an outward facing multi watersports club welcoming to all. Sailing still remains the Club’s principal activity and Social Sailing members were on hand to take visitors out on the water for a taster session on the club’s own boats.

The Social Sailing scheme offers three on the water sailing tuition sessions as well as a series of winter theory talks all absolutely free and is a fantastic value way to start sailing. Coastal rowing is the next big thing: the club has built two St Ayles Skiffs – a 5 person class of traditional style rowing boat which is now represented all around the Scottish coast. Just about everybody who has tried it loves it and the coastal rowers were also out to attract new members. Also, it being a glorious afternoon, members of the open water swimming group were out there mixing it with the porpoises. In addition to all that there are also paddleboard, kayaking and a few dinghy enthusiasts in the club. Ashore there was a great atmosphere with live music, food and drinks on the balcony which has to be one of the best viewpoints on the south side of the Clyde. With its historic building and all that going on Royal Gourock is surely an under appreciated asset to the area and anyone with water-based interests should come along and find out for themselves.

Kilmacolm Running Festival

What are you waiting for? Get your running shoes out and start training for the Kilmacolm Half Marathon! Alongside a 10k and 3k, running the Kilmacolm Half Marathon is one of the biggest participation events in Inverclyde’s sporting calendar.

Sunday 10th September | Start Time : 10am | Number of Places : 500

Route: Start at the Birkmyre Park Fitness Gym, then through the streets of the village, surrounding countryside and along the cycle path before returning to the finish line at Birkmyre Fitness Gym.

Entry: * Unaffiliated Runners : £20 (until 30th Sep), £25 (until 6th Sep)

* Affiliated Runners : £18 (until 30th Sep), £23 (until 6th Sep)

* Registration Deadline : 6th September

For more information contact Jamie Cunningham: 01475 213123; email: jamie.cunningham@inverclydeleisure.com; w: https://www. entrycentral.com/kilmacolmraces

Out and About

Colourful Kilmacolm

A minor milestone was passed last month when Colourful Kilmacolm celebrated the first ten years. As well as enjoying cake and bubbly, members attending the AGM heard Peter, our Chair, review achievements since 2013, accompanied by a slide show. A measure of the difference the group has made can be seen by comparing these two “before and after” photographs of the area near the old station. If you would like to be involved you can visit www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or phone Peter (01505 872448) or Liz (07963 973031) for more information.

Brighter Bridge Of Weir

Roll out those lazy, hazy days...

Here comes summer; lazy days for some, but not for Brighter Bridge of Weir. Usually, our summer plants arrive around the end of May, but a mainly kind winter followed by a mostly cold and wet spring has created problems for many growers. We plan to have all the tubs and baskets in the village planted up in time for Gala Day, but at the time of writing, we have no definite date for delivery. Things could get a bit frantic.

Still, always look on the bright side — the Woodland Garden across from Livery Walk looks well on the way to recovery after the ‘remodelling’ work, and we’ve had a healthy donation from the Scottish Leather Group after their staff sold a load of Bridge of Weir Leather keyrings to raise funds for local causes.

As for those lazy days, if you happen to find yourself at a loose end during the summer months, you could do worse than help us out. We’re not looking for any long-term commitment, but an hour or two now and then would be a big help. We’re usually out from 10:30am until lunchtime on Mondays and Wednesdays and occasionally other days if necessary.

There’s more on our website (www.brighterbridgeofweir.org) and our Facebook page. You can also email info@brighterbridgeofweir.org or call Neil on 01505 613043 or 07969 642487.

The pictures below were recently taken in the Woodland Garden.

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society

June already - we’re nearly halfway through the year! This month’s forecast is mixed - but warmer temperatures will boost our vegetables, flowers and plants, many of which were bought at last month’s Plant Sale which was held on a sunny, Spring day. Start feeding your containers and baskets after mid-summer’s day. This month the Gardening Club is going to Dumfries House and we look forward to seeing the latest developments there. The Walled Garden will have matured as will the Arboretum. The Garden was built on a south facing slope with a built-in irrigation system, but the Arboretum was planted on boggy ground so the trees were dug into raised mounds to offset the damp. It will be interesting to see how both projects are progressing.

May was a busy month for the Gardening Club as we also supported other events. We held the much anticipated Gardeners’ Question Time, when members (and visitors) discussed their various horticultural problems. An oft-raised comment has been last winter’s weather which tested most gardens to their limits. A searing 40oC summer, then a plunge to below -10oC in December illustrated the effects of our increasingly volatile climate. Lack of “acclimation” is thought to be responsible. This is described as a prolonged wet and mild autumn and an early winter with temperatures suddenly dropping well below freezing. Locations, such as walls and surrounding vegetation, improved chances of survival, but container-grown plants succumbed, especially bulbs, established and new, when the cold reached the bulb root plates. The plants and trees which did cope well enjoyed good wood-ripening and new flower-buds. As a result we had a great show from hardy spring-flowering trees and shrubs, but by now, anything looking brown and sad....has died.

In July, we meet on Thursday 13th at 8pm in Freeland Church Hall. Our topic will be Wild Flowers – creating a patch in our gardens. Details from our Facebook Page or Donald Hepburn on 01505 612898.

Barshaw Gala Day

Saturday 17th June from 11am - 4pm at Barshaw Park Glasgow Road, Paisley. This is a free event!

It’s a fun day out for all the family where there will be the chance to enjoy live entertainment provided by local groups, fun inflatables, free face painting and children’s workshops, community and craft stalls and more. If that isn’t enough don’t forget Barshaw Park also has some fantastic play areas, a nature corner, a large pond, BMX area, plus model ride on train. Entry is free, so come along and join in an afternoon party in the park!

Renfrew Gala Day

Renfrew Gala Day will take place on Sunday 4th June with a full afternoon of free family fun and entertainment from 12noon - 5pm at Robertson Park Paisley Road, Renfrew PA4 8NF. This is a free event!

Thousands attend first Scottish games of the season

Huge crowds descended on Inverclyde to enjoy an afternoon of piping, dancing and heavy events at the first Scottish games of the season.

Around 10,000 people are estimated to have visited Battery Park on Sunday 14th May for the Gourock Highland Games, which traditionally start the Scottish Highland Games and piping season in Scotland.

The free event, organised by Inverclyde Council and part of the second Meliora Festival, saw competitors from across the country take part in pipe band, Highland dancing and traditional heavy events, such as the caber and hammer throw. Local schoolchildren also took part in a mini-Highland games contest, which was won by ‘home’ team St Ninian’s Primary, of Gourock. Alongside the competitive action, visitors were treated to an array of stalls, stands, activities, a funfair and food and drink outlets.

Chieftain, Dr Liz Cameron CBE, said: “It was a fantastic day packed full of great competition and fun for all ages and completely free to attend.

“I was honoured to be asked to be chieftain of the 2023 Gourock Highland Games and what a terrific advert the event was for Inverclyde showcasing skills and talent from traditional sport, music and dance, as well as first-class arts and crafts, food and drink and, of course, that famous warm welcome in a picturesque location.

“Congratulations to everyone who took part and the many thousands who came along to support. Success was down to great leadership, vision, teams and ambition.

“Well done to Inverclyde Council and its partners. It was also good to see how the event is growing with many other additional attractions and the presence of many local businesses displaying their products, confirming this area is fantastic to set up and invest.”

The overall winner of the heavy events was Kyle Randall, who won six out of the seven contests. In the pipe band competition, there were musicians from across the country competing in eight contests throughout the day.

In the Highland dancing, there was an increase in the number of competitors than in previous years, including a dancer from New Zealand who was here visiting family.

Organiser May Hughes, from the May Hughes School of Dance, said: “I was absolutely delighted with the entries, we had over 100 dancers from four to 15 years.

“We had a fabulous crowd watching which was great. “All in all we felt the games were a huge success with lots of attractions outwith the dancing and pipe bands.

“A well organised, great family day out and we are already looking forward to next year’s event.”

Among the visitors to Battery Park were many passengers from cruise ship Regal Princess docked at nearby Greenock Ocean Terminal for the day.

The 2024 Gourock Highland Games are expected to return to Battery Park on Sunday 12th May 2024. To find out more about what Inverclyde has to offer, visit discoverinverclyde.com

Clyde Muirshiel News

New Wheelyboat at Castle Semple Named Following a recent ceremony, the new V17 Wheelyboat has a name - Lightyear! Thank you to Kyle from Corseford School for the suggestion, named after his favourite movie character. The Wheelyboat will provide accessible boating for all to meet growing demand.

Kibble Outdoor Education Group The Ranger Service have just finished a block of outdoor education with S1 pupils from the Paisley residential school. They did den building, photography, water and land minibeast hunting, fire lighting as well as climbing Windy Hill. See K’s & T’s photos using macro skills and different angles of lichen and a dead tree – cracking shots!

Castle Semple Conservation Volunteers Update Thanks to our hard-working Thursday volunteers all the fences and benches and planters at Muirshiel have a new coat of paint, the SRANI path is looking much tidier and new benches. Like to join them? Email the Rangers on cmrp.rangers@renfrewshire.gov.uk to be added to the mailing list.

Responsible Access This time of year is very busy for farmers with livestock surrounding the Park’s locations and trails. Please keep your dog under close control, if in doubt on a lead, when near any animals or wildlife. Refer to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for further guidance.

Renfrewshire Sheltered Housing Joined the Muirshiel Ranger team for some Easter craft activities and enjoyed walks around the Country trail over a 6 week programme of activity.

Youth Volunteers Do you know a young person doing their Duke of Edinburgh Award? The Ranger Service runs a weekly volunteer group on Sunday mornings, 10am-12 noon. This month they’ve been working on spring cleaning with litter picks and painting at Muirshiel. Email the Rangers on cmrp.rangers@renfrewshire.gov.uk to be added to the mailing list.

Lochwinnoch Community Walk Looking for some gentle exercise and good company? Meet on Mondays (except public holidays) at the McKillop at 10:30am and are led by the Park’s Ranger Service. At the start of July this will be moving to Castle Semple as the start point. Walks are 1-1.5 hours long at a social pace. See you there!

Get Social: Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/ClydeMuirshielRegionalPark | Instagram & Twitter @Clydemuirshiel

RSPB News

With the days getting longer and the temperatures higher, June is a fantastic time to visit RSPB Lochwinnoch. Watch out for osprey fishing over the lochs, great crested grebes with young nestled on their backs, dragonflies and damselflies patrolling their territories around the water’s edge or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll around our easily accessible trails. Swifts, swallows and Martins can frequently be seen swooping through the air, chiffchaff, blackcap, willow and sedge warbler all add to the chorus of birdsong that can be heard all around and greenveined white, small tortoiseshell, red admiral and peacock butterfly all add a splash of colour alongside the many varied wildflowers that are in bloom.

If you enjoy seeing the wildflowers, but are unsure of their names, or would simply like to learn more about them, why not come along for our “wildflower guided walk” (Saturday 3rd June) led by local botanist Jim Blackwood? Jim will point out interesting species as you explore the trails, tell you about the folklore or varied uses of some of the plants as well as other interesting information. To book this please visit events.rspb.org.uk/lochwinnoch. In addition to this we will also have our usual offer of self-led activities for families running throughout the month, details of which can also be found on our website.

Our shop continues to stock our popular range of “Wild Isles” items, inspired by the recent BBC documentary series. The shop and visitor centre are open daily between 9:30am and 5pm.

If you would like any further information about the reserve, please call 01505 842663 or email us on lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk We can also be found on Facebook @RSPBLochwinnochNR and twitter @RSPBLochwinnoch

Image above of ‘Great Crested Grebe’ by Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)

Sunday 4

th

June - Carruth, Bridge of Weir

2pm - 5pm @ CARRUTH, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3SG

Mr and Mrs Charles Maclean. Nominated charity: Marie Curie 60%.

Over 20 acres of long-established rhododendrons, woodland with good bluebells, young arboretum and lawn gardens in a lovely landscaped setting. New landscaping carried out in 2020. Directions: Access from the B786 Kilmacolm/Lochwinnoch road. From Bridge of Weir take the Torr Road until you get to the B786. Turn right and after about 100 metres, the garden entrance is on the right. About 3.5 miles from Kilmacolm and 5.5 miles from Lochwinnoch on the B786.

Sunday 25 th June - Bishop’s

Kilmacolm

2pm - 5pm @ Bishop’s House, Kilmacolm PA13 4PD

House,

The Bishop’s House is one of six villas in Kilmacolm designed by James Salmon in 1905. Come and explore the grounds as they open their doors to the public for Scotland’s Gardens Scheme. It was originally named Miyanoshta, but renamed when it became the official residence of the Catholic Bishops of Paisley (19481993). The house is now a family home and much care has been taken in preserving the house and garden, both in landscaping and planting, which remain mostly as designed by Salmon. The house sits at the top of the garden and is framed by mature beech trees. There is a burn running down the side of the property (children should be supervised).

Directions: PLEASE ACCESS THE GARDEN FROM THE GLENCAIRN ROAD ENTRANCE. Turn off the A761 in the centre of Kilmacolm onto Houston Road or Porterfield Road for access to the garden on Glencairn Road. Follow SGS signage. Parking on-road. McGill’s buses run through Kilmacolm on the A761.

£5 entry / children free

Sales & Wants

www.advertizer.co.uk/submit-sales-wants

Items For sale

C LOTHES & S HOES

Black suede Lala Botin boots size

• 39, block heal with front zips. New, in box. £12. | Orange Staccato leather, striped block heel sandals with orange leather lace ties. Size 39, worn once. In original box with extra heel tips. £12. | Navy blue suede 2.5” heeled debut sandals with extra heel tips. £12. As new. Tel: 07761 089711

H OUSEHOLD & G ARDEN

The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977

The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers.

18” Honda Izy 4 stroke push mower.

• 18 months old. £260. Tel: 01505 872564.

•

Vintage Royal Albert “Old Country

Roses” Bone China. 6 x 10.25”

Dinner Plates. £40. 18 Piece Tea Set comprising 6 x Cups, 6 x Saucers, 6 x Tea Plates. (One Tea Plate cracked). £60. Unused,still in original packing, as new. Approx. 50 years old, from 1962. Tel: 07528 362930.

E LECTRICAL & G AS

Harman/ Kardon AVR5500 - Exc.

Folding Electric Bike, Evomotion • Evo Dragon Lithium Battery. £300. Tel: 01505 705003.

26” red/black escape squad • mountain bike. Unused. £150 ono. Tel: 07471 798159.

O THER I TEMS

Ibanez Electric/Acoustic guitar. Exc. • cond. £200. Tel: 07412 103321.

Local Community Halls

As new, UK 240v version Tracer • Projector, trace art, patterns, designs onto walls, card, picture/painting boards, canvases. Full instructions. £75 + postage or collection. Tel: 07857 404963.

Ceiling rose (plaster) 18” diameter.

• Beautiful ornate design. Exc. cond. £20. Tel: 07900 918392.

• cond. Unsure if built-in radio functioning FM/AM works. £100. Tel: 07810 815137.

Sp ORTS

2 x white resin adjustable garden

• sunbeds. £75 for both. Tel: 01505 872755.

Nearly new Frame Co PushMaster • Frame Joiner & fitting set c/w instructions. £45. Tel: 07857 404963.

Single seat Golf buggy, Powercruise

Wooden dining table & 6 faux

• leather chairs. Good condition. £100 ono. Tel: 07966 278763

• GF01 Lithium. Can provide trailer as additional extra if required. £1,000. Tel: 01505 705003. Gents bicycle “GIANT” make. Good

Set of 4 used Copydex picture • framing mitre clamp set, takes up to 40mm picture frame mouldings, 30mm rebate. £8.50. Tel: 07857 404963.

Pair new Sainsburys Padded White

• & Blue Stripe garden/patio relaxers, unopened in wrappers. £80. Tel: 07857 404963.

• condition. £100 ono. Ladies bicycle “DAWES” make. Good working condition. £50 ono. Call Kilbarchan 01505 705264 & leave a message.

Original Rustic Solid Oak Double

• Wardrobe with large drawer from Oak Furniture Land, only 6 months old. £350. Exc. cond. Tel: 07887 784162 .

White plastic Shower Seat

• (DeVilbiss) with hand grips, adjustable aluminium legs & adjustable back. 1 month old. Packaging & instructions. £30. Tel: 07534 044067.

Bosch Shredder AXT Rapid 200

• Electric, takes branches up to 35mm diameter. Exc. cond. Instructions Inc. £25. Tel: 07535 861584 / 01505 610408.

Dart Board & 6 darts (Winmau

• Diamond Plus) exc. cond. £15. Tel: 07900 918392.

Fishing equipment incl 3 junior • spinning rods, 2 adult spinning rods, 2 fly rods, 3 fly reels, 1 spinning reel, 1 box flies, 2 fishing bags, selection of spinners & floats & a pair of size 11 waders. Job lot, but may split. £80ono. Tel: 07840 289394.

Golf clubs including Callaway & • Taylormade drivers. Ben Ross pure red putter, Donnay irons. Golf bag and 2wheel golf trolley (light weight). £40. Tel: 07900 918392.

For Sale g Wanted g Free g

Partially used Mat Master System • 660B, complete kit, various style mounts for pictures or paintings. Includes full instructions. £100. Tel: 07857 404963.

Motorcycle Helmet “Caberg”, small • size, brand new, never used £40 ono. Motorcycle Helmet “HJC” Large size, white, one year old, hardly used. £40 ono. Motorbike Jacket “Teknic”, Large, Well used. Red and black. All zips, studs and velcro work. Double lined with inbuilt safety padding. £40ono. All items in Kilbarchan, please call 01505 705264 & leave a message.

Canon Inks..550/1. 26 colours & • 14 black ink tanks. 570/1. 8 colour & 1 black ink tank. All for £10. Tel: 01505 612722.

WanteD Items

recycling-and-waste-services/whenare-my-bins-collected www.inverclyde.gov.uk/environment/ roads-lighting

Name: ........................................................................................

Email:

Tel:

Mob:

Local lily grower requires the use of a

• greenhouse/polytunnel in Kilmacolm area in return for light gardening duties. Tel: Vince 01505 872082.

• Tel: 01505 873958 or 07710 777571.

Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s Cash Paid.

Delivery problem? Get in touch! info@advertizer.co.uk 01505 613 340 advertizer.co.uk/delivery-feedback

Cash paid for Vinyl Records and Music

• CDs (a few or a lot). Tel: 01505 329638 or 07765 115347.

Collector seeks His Master’s Voice

• portable gramophone (working or not) and gramophone records (78s). Money waiting. Tel: 07591 121777.

Model or toy cars. Corgi, Dinky, in box,

• any condition, broken or damaged. Also model trains. Tel: 01505 872210 or 07484 331973.

Local defibrillator sites available online:

advertizer.co.uk/local-defibrillator-sites/

OUSTON • Outside Church Hall, Main St

Co-Op • Strathgryffe Tennis (reception) • Old telephone box, Houston Rd, Crosslee • Back of Houston Primary outer-side of playground fence

• Howwood Hall, Station Rd

• Christ the King Church,