338 July 2023 - Gryffe Advertizer

Next Deadline

#339 august 2023:

Wednesday 12th July

Upcoming deadlines:

#340 SEPTEMBER 2023: 16th AUGUST

#341 october 2023: 13th september

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 Summer

Breeze...

What a fantastic spell of weather we’ve had recently. The sunny days, mixed with a few showers of rain, have brought a sudden burst of colour in the countryside. While we enjoy the hotter weather, please remember to consider our furry friends. Walk your dog earlier in the morning and later in the evening if you are able to, and make sure that they have plenty of water to drink to keep cool.

Sewer Upgrade - Bridge of Weir

Scottish Water is installing a new section of sewer under Mill Brae and part of Main Street, opposite the Amaretto Restaurant.

There will be some parking restrictions and, at times, temporary traffic lights will be in operation, but businesses will be open as usual.

There has been an issue with waste water surcharging from a manhole in the village during periods of heavy rain for a number of years.

Flood water spills down an access road towards Main Street and also pools on the uneven surface when the flooding subsides.

The project will increase the capacity of the local sewer network, drastically reducing the likelihood of it flooding in future.

local news for:

• bridge of weir

• brookfield

• houston

• howwood

• kilbarchan

• kilmacolm

• langbank

• lochwinnoch

• quarriers

Work was scheduled to begin on Monday 26th June 2023 and is expected to take approximately six months to complete.

www.scottishwater.co.uk/In-Your-Area/Investments-in-Your-Area/Bridge-of-WeirSewer-Upgrade

The deadline date for our next issue the August magazine is Wednesday 12th July. Please ensure that you send your information in by this date so that it can be included.

Advertising

Definitions: “Standards” means the British Code of Advertising Practice and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act, 1968, the Consumer Credit Act 1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisement (Disclosure) Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements.

It is hereby agreed that:

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

All Advertisements in • this Publication must not contravene the Standards. The Publisher shall not • be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication in which the Advertisement appears. In the event of any error, • misprint or omission by the Publisher in the printing of an Advertisement, the Publisher will either reinsert 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/

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

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

RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve

In this issue...

Glasgow Kiltwalk - our best year yet!

This year, as we celebrate our 35th year, we had a record 121 supporters walking the Glasgow Kiltwalk in aid of St Vincent’s Hospice. We are absolutely delighted they braved the weather to complete the challenge on a very wet day at the end of April.

Amongst the walkers were families walking together in memory of loved ones who have been cared for at St Vincent’s Hospice, several teams of colleagues from workplaces including McKenzie Vets in Alexandria, Co-ops in both Bridge of Weir and Houston, our corporate partners Laurie Ross Insurance and X-Site in Renfrew, as well as teams from our own Care and Fundraising teams, we are so grateful to them all. Their fundraising was phenomenal, helping us raise a staggering £30,193.75 and still counting!

Our Community, Corporate & Events Fundraiser Lesley Campbell said “we would not be able to raise such a fantastic amount without everyone’s dedication and support. The vital funds that have been raised will go towards helping as many patients and families as possible across Renfrewshire and adjoining North Ayrshire”

There are still 2 more Kiltwalks this year, taking place in Dundee on 20th August and Edinburgh on 17th October - we already have signups and would love more! If you are interested, please register by emailing us at fundraising@svh.co.uk for a free place!

Glasgow Kiltwalk 2023 - Team McKenzie Vets

Programme revealed for Sma’ Shot Day celebrations

Saturday 1st July

Sma’ Shot Day celebrates a 19thcentury victory by the town’s weavers over their bosses in an industrial dispute. This year’s event will see the return of the popular parade and Burning of the Cork, live performances, workshops, family entertainment and much more.

The parade will leave from Brodie Park at 12 noon, led by the familiar sound of the Charleston Drum, before making its way through Paisley town centre and finishing at Abbey Close.

With performances from local dance group right2dance, PACE Youth Theatre, the Rock Us choir, local singer Hollie Robinson singer-songwriter Shaz Martin and the Rachel Campbell Trio ceilidh band, as well as free activities for children including face painting, balloon modelling, storytelling, magic shows and arts and crafts. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a treat or two from one of the food traders. There’s a full programme of live music at The Bungalow venue, with the popular Poetry Slam in the late afternoon. Upcycling business Restoration and Creation on Browns Lane, which will be marking its 1st birthday that weekend, will be offering creative wares to complement the Sma’ Shot Day celebrations. The historic Sma’ Shot Cottages will also be open for tours, take a trip back in time to two distinctive periods of Paisley’s rich textile history.

The Art Department will be hosting a series of creative workshops both in the run-up to and on Sma’ Shot Day itself. A Feel Good Fair will also take place on the 2nd floor of The Art Department where visitors can browse and buy unique items from local creatives and try taster sessions from wellbeing practitioners. Plus, there’s an afternoon of dancing and timeless tunes to enjoy at the Tea Dance at the Methodist Central Hall.

To find out more about this year’s Sma’ Shot Day celebrations and how to book places at event workshops, visit: www.paisley.is.

Permit applications now available

Residents wishing to continue to receive a garden waste collection in Renfrewshire can now apply for a permit and are being encouraged to do so well in advance of the new service beginning on 10th July. With councils facing extreme financial pressures, a £40 annual charge for the collection of garden waste has been introduced which is in line with two-thirds of councils who currently offer this service.

Permit holders will receive a sticker to attach to their brown bin which will ensure their garden waste is collected by council crews and the permit applies to one brown bin at the property only, with additional permits and brown bins available to be purchased.

To ensure the permit is in place ahead of the new service starting, residents should apply by 25th June – but applications can be made after this date too.

Anyone who does not wish to participate can continue to present their brown bin with food waste only, but if garden waste is placed into the bin without a permit, then it will not be collected until it is removed.

Garden waste, such as grass and hedge cuttings, can continue to be taken to any of Renfrewshire’s recycling centres for free or residents can pay to use the council’s special uplift service. All other bin collections will remain the same.

Waste advisors will carry out roadshows at libraries across Renfrewshire throughout June to allow local people to ask questions - details of these can be found on the council website. For full details of the scheme and to apply for a permit, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/garden-waste-collection or call 0300 300 0380.

For any questions, email: garden.waste@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Presenting Great Britain’s best loved station ...

Wemyss Bay Station was presented with the ‘Best Loved Station’ award by broadcaster and historian Tim Dunn.

The station emerged victorious in the highly anticipated World Cup of Stations 2023 as champion, surpassing 47 other stations to claim the title.

Pictured with Tim Dunn, broadcaster and presenter, Tracy Stevenson, Community Relations for Scotrail, Ronnie Cowan, Scottish National Party MP for Inverclyde and Stuart McMillan Scottish National Party, MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, Friends of Wemyss bay station.

The World Cup of Stations, supported by the Rail Delivery Group and Community Rail Network, captivated station staff, volunteers, train operators, and customers across England, Scotland and Wales through a week-long competition with over 70,000 votes cast across 11 regions and nations of Great Britain.

The ScotRail managed station won the award through its remarkable achievements including: its outstanding volunteer work, the development of a vibrant and colourful community garden and the establishment of the station bookshop which resonated with voters, earning them widespread admiration and support.

As part of Community Rail Week, the competition highlighted the remarkable diversity of stations and the imaginative ways in which they are utilised, often with the invaluable assistance of Community Rail volunteers who tirelessly work towards improving local stations for residents, the environment, and the local economy.

The plaque symbolises the station’s exceptional standing and recognition as the epitome of railway excellence in Great Britain.

The station’s triumph highlights its historic significance, awe-inspiring architecture, and dedication to community engagement. The Friends of Wemyss Bay, in collaboration others, have transformed the station into a vibrant community rail destination, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In receiving this award, Wemyss Bay Station joins the ranks of the country’s most beloved and cherished stations, cementing its status as a beacon of excellence in the railway industry.

Sewer Upgrade - Bridge of Weir

Scottish Water is installing a new section of sewer under Mill Brae and part of Main Street, opposite the Amaretto Restaurant. There will be some parking restrictions and, at times, temporary traffic lights will be in operation, but businesses will be open as usual.

There has been an issue with waste water surcharging from a manhole in the village during periods of heavy rain for a number of years. Flood water spills down an access road towards Main Street and also pools on the uneven surface when the flooding subsides.

The project will increase the capacity of the local sewer network, drastically reducing the likelihood of it flooding in future.

Work is expected to take approximately six months to complete. https://www.scottishwater.co.uk/In-Your-Area/Investments-in-Your-Area/Bridge-of-Weir-Sewer-Upgrade

Local History

Paisley’s ‘hidden’ history unearthed in new museum

Paisley’s ‘hidden’ history brought to life by new museum project

Politicians often refer to the UK as being home to the ‘mother of parliaments’, but few are aware of the role that 19th century Paisley ‘radicals’ played in the fight for democracy and the right to vote to be extended to ordinary workers.

Now, social history researchers, are set to bring that history to life, as part of a display in the £45 million refurbishment of Paisley Museum by focussing on the events in 1819 that saw a week of riots and bloody, pitched fighting across the streets of the town. The events came shortly after the Peterloo massacre in Manchester, where 18 protesters seeking political reform, were killed by government forces. Incensed, Paisley buddies took to the streets in solidarity and to demand that ordinary men be given the vote.

OneRen’s social history researcher, Archie Henderson, said that in the early 19th century, the perfect recipe for creating radical reformers was created in Paisley by the majority of the town’s self-educated weavers attaining military experience during the Napoleonic Wars.

“Paisley soon became recognised by the government as a nest of radical activity – it was considered a dangerous place,” Archie said. “Those involved wanted change. There was high inflation and unemployment when people returned from war and that just exacerbated problems.”

In 1819, following the Peterloo massacre, the radicals staged a rally in support of the victims. Some 20,000 people from across southwest Scotland attended. The local government issued a ban on the display of flags and banners of a political or inflammatory nature – a ban disregarded by those attending.

After a peaceful demonstration, police seized banners from reformers passing through Paisley Cross. A scuffle broke out, which escalated into a riot which lasted for the best part of a week.

Archie said: “They began reading the Riot Act out and that’s significant, as the same Act was read out a month previous at Peterloo and that led to a number of people being killed. It meant protesters had an hour to disperse and if they didn’t, then police could take any kind of punitive action that they saw fit, which ultimately included killing people by an indemnified force.

“The Riot Act was read out, but it had no effect on the people of Paisley who refused to disperse and were fighting with the police. The local government sought help from the army and cavalry garrisoned in Glasgow. There were running battles to reclaim and capture streets.”

The new display will feature posters that were distributed by the local government and magistrates, pleading with people to heed curfews and refrain from protests. Also on display is what is known as the ‘radical pike’ – a fierce weapon made from iron files sharpened to a point by local blacksmiths, affixed to a six-foot long pole. Archie added: “They’re scary looking things, you could do a lot of damage with them.”

The pikes were stashed in the thatches of cottages and pulled out when needed. The collection also features a Paisley police baton from the same period, adorned with the Paisley town crest. The weapons were among some of the first things which were displayed when the original Paisley Museum first opened in 1871.

Archie said that it was ‘a miracle’ that no-one was killed during the week of riots in 1819. However, the protest, along with others led to the Great Reform Act in 1832, when the franchise was extended to working men, leading the way for further progressive developments in the evolution of British democracy.

Archie added: “Ultimately, the insurrection that was later planned in 1820 was thwarted by the government, with its leaders made an example of, either being deported to Australia or executed, but a movement has to start somewhere and its legacy was the evolution of things like the trade union movement and reforms that led to the extension of the franchise to working men and women.

“I hope those who come to the museum understand that by coming together, no matter the odds, big changes can happen – and the Paisley Radicals played a huge role that can still be felt in our democracy to this day.”

OneRen’s Social History Researcher, Archie Henderson Radical Pike

1714 Riot Act, Page 5

Farmers Markets

in July

Saturday 1st

Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm Community Centre

10am to 2pm

1st Saturday of the month

F /kilmacolmfarmersmarket

sUnday 9th

Renfrew

Robertson Park

10am to 4pm

2nd Sunday of the month

F /RenfrewMarket

Saturday 8th & 29th

Paisley

The Paisley Centre 10am to 2pm

F /pages/Paisley-FarmersMarket/207097172654332

Saturday 15th

Bishopton & Dargavel

Bishopton Train Station Car Park

10am to 2pm

3rd Saturday of the month

F /The-BishoptonDargavel-Farmers-Market109902924512969

Saturday 29th

Gourock

Gourock Train Station Car Park 10am to 2pm

Last Saturday of the month

F /The-Gourock-FarmersMarket-112064558070104

Sat 29th & sun 30th

Barnhill Farm

Houston Road, Inchinnan 10am to 4pm

Last Weekend of the month

F /BarnhillAsparagus

SUnday 30th

Erskine

Erskine Waterfront 10am to 4pm

Last Sunday of the month

F /Erskine-Riverside-Market101613198665127

Coming Events in July

Until Friday 7 th

Painting Exhibition and Sale

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir

Mon to Sat 10am to 1pm; Mon 2pm to 5pm; Sunday closed Local Artist, Margaret Harcus, is hosting a Painting Exhibition and fundraising sale of paintings, in aid of MnD Scotland (Motor Neurone Disease). With a selection of framed paintings of landscapes, birds, flowers and in animals, in a variety of media. Free entry.

Sat U rday 1 st

Sma’ Shot Day celebrations

Brodie Park, Paisley from 12noon

Celebrating the 19th-century victory by the town’s weavers over their bosses in an industrial dispute. Featuring the return of the popular parade and Burning of the Cork, live performances, workshops, family entertainment and much more. To find out more about this year’s Sma’ Shot Day celebrations and how to book places at event workshops, visit: www.paisley.is

Sat U rday 1 st - Monday 31 st

Summer Super Spotter

Scavenger Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

9.30am to 4pm

Self-led activity - see what wild discoveries you can make! Use your wildlife spotting skills to see how many creatures on your activity sheet you can find, discover cool stuff about them and claim your prize back at the visitor centre once completed! Call 01505 842663. £3.50.

S U nday 2 nd

HOUSTON & KILLELLAN KIRK

Corsliehill Road, Houston

7pm

Outdoor Service at the ruins of Old Kilallan Kirk, Corsliehill Road. (Please bring your own chairs!)

tU e S day 4 th

HOUSTON & KILLELLAN KIRK FOODBANK

West Halls Main Street

Houston PA6 7EL (next to Carrick Centre and Village Hall)

10am to 12noon & 7pm to 8pm

Donations welcome every Tuesday in July.

Sat U rday 8 th

Kilbarchan Smile Meet & Greet

Green at bottom of Ewing Street, Kilbarchan

10am to 2pm

Come along for a chat, cake, refreshments and plants available.

t h U r S day 13 th

HOUSTON & KILLELLAN KIRK

“Houston Hello”

11 Christie St, Paisley PA1 1nB

10am to 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. Free entry, a donation bucket will be at the door should you wish to make a donation to the Hospice.

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society “Wild Flowers”

Freeland Church Hall, Main Street, Bridge of Weir

8pm

This months topic will be Wild Flowers – creating a patch in our gardens. Details from our Facebook Page or Donald Hepburn on 01505 612898.

Solas bereavement drop-in group Meeting

Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm

2pm

Solas will support you 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

Friday 28 th

Laugh ACCORDingly

Rocknrollas, 5 Wellmeadow Street, Paisley PA1 2EF

6.30pm

Get ready to laugh for a great cause! Join us for our newest event! Tickets include your access to 15 hilarious acts as well as a buffet for all.

Events in August

tU e S day 1 st - t h U r S day 31 st

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

2pm to 4pm

Screen Memories with Michael White. Also on the 27th – when we will enjoy Singing for Wellbeing with Daniella. Contact Frankie Greenwood on 07817 210777 or email: familyandcommunity. houstonkirk@gmail.com Drop-in group for people living with dementia and carers.

Dragon Hunt

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch

9.30am to 4pm

Explore the woodland trails, and learn more about dragonflies and damselflies. Search for the hidden dragons, find the missing letters and complete the mystery word. This is a self-led fun event for all the family. £3 per pack.

Kilbarchan a gricultural Show

Upcoming Events 2023

16th Sept Seonaid Aitken Jazz Ensemble

McKillop / £12

Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald & “Chasing Sakura”

13th Oct Films 4U “Local Hero”

Lochbarr / £20

Music and Strathspey whisky tasting in aid of Finding your Feet Charity

17th Oct

Cluicheamaid (Mod Kids Club)

McKillop / Free

Part of the Mod on tour

Book at: feisphaislig.com/

Lochwinnoch Minis (4 – 7 yrs) 10am – 12 noon

(8 – 12 years) 1pm – 3pm

11th nov Rock and Roll night

McKillop / £12

“Willie Gamble” and “Howlin Radio”

25th nov Pre-Christmas Craft Fair

McKillop / Free

Tickets available online at www.lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk or in local outlets

Wow!! The 195th year of Kilbarchan Agricultural Society Show was a fabulous day, we enjoyed putting it on (well mostly), huge team effort from our committee and show day helpers, thank you all.

We thank Mr & Mrs Andrew Malcolm and Family for their kind use of Roadside Field, Monkland. The team are extremely grateful to our Patrons, Advertisers, Sponsors, Competitors, Judges, Stewards and Stall Holders without their support we could not run the Show.

Best of all, thank you to all of our show visitors we hope you had a lovely traditional rural community day out.

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. 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. Free Admission, however, all donations towards the upkeep of the cottages are gratefully accepted.

Planning an event?

We can help promote your event for FREE! Send your event details to: k info@advertizer.co.uk or online at: a www.advertizer.co.uk/ add-event

Millport r aft r ace Saturday 5 th a ugust

The highly anticipated island event will see participants race from Kames Bay to Millport Harbour.

The race returned last year after a two year hiatus, with the tradition dating back to the 1980s.

Village News

Painting Exhibition and Sale in aid of MND Scotland

Tuesday 13th June - Friday 7th July

The Bridge, Community Centre, Main Street, Bridge of Weir Mon to Sat 10am to 1pm; Mon 2 - 5pm; Sunday closed The artist, Margaret Harcus, a member of Bishopton Art Group and Brookfield Art Group, is hosting a Painting Exhibition and fundraising sale of paintings, in aid of MND Scotland (Motor Neurone Disease).

There will be a selection of framed paintings of landscapes, birds, flowers and in animals, in a variety of media. All proceeds from the sale will go to MND Scotland.

Margaret said, “I recently lost two dear friends to MND, a terrible disease which is always fatal. I decided to sell my framed pictures at bargain prices and all proceeds will go to this worthy charity.” It is hoped that that many people will visit the exhibition and support this venture. The exhibition is free to enter.

WARD 9:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We have been blessed with some beautiful weather in June and it was a pleasure to march with the parade on Bridge of Weir Gala Day and see a good number of impressive stalls. Three councillors were tasked with finding five youngsters in outstanding costumes and the best dressed shop window and garden - judging is never an easy task.

Scottish Water are to begin work to deal with the numerous sewage spillages into the Pow Burn which feeds the River Gryffe. Work will start on 26th June through to December with the initial closure of Mill Brae, to install a larger sewer, work will then move to Main Street in front of Amaretto Restaurant. Hopefully traffic on the Main Street can be controlled with temporary traffic lights, but a closure of the road is planned for 6th September until 13th September. There will also be “no parking” restrictions in the area.

Complaints of speeding vehicles on Main Road, Langbank led to monitoring equipment being installed on 16th May. Unfortunately one was removed and the other untouched, meaning that no report was available on vehicle speeds here. Another device will have to be ordered and at some point, the detectors will be back out on Main Road.

Recently, there was another accident on the A8 roundabout, is anyone counting them? Hopefully Transport Scotland are, as they will be surveying the roundabout with the initial findings available by the end of October this year. The survey will look at the number and collision trends at this location.

There has been much upset at the new permit scheme for collection of garden waste. The £40 charge is per bin and a permit should be obtained before 10th July. If you wish garden waste to be uplifted you can get a permit from https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/3745/Garden-waste Food waste will still be removed free of charge unless garden waste is detected in the bin. Householders with no permit will continue to be able to dispose of their garden waste free of charge at any of the 5 Household Waste Recycling Centres.

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.

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

11 cllr james maclaren

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)

Robert Innes - Tue 18th @ 6pm - 6.30pm

E brookfieldvillage.org

F brookfieldvpa@gmail.com

t @BrookfieldVPA

The Bridge

63 Main St, Bridge of Weir

www.thebridgebridgeofweir.com

(Opening Hours: Mon – 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm; Tues to Sat – 10am to 1pm)

The year marches on - we are just about to order the Bridge of Weir calendar for 2024. As always we are very grateful to Duncan McEwan, Honorary President and the members of The Paisley Colour Photographic Club for producing the picturesque images. We anticipate the calendar will be on sale from the beginning of October.

Shop - TOYS, TOYS, TOYS. Do you know that The Bridge stocks 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 The Bridge Shop as often as you can, otherwise we risk losing the Post Office facility in Bridge of Weir.

Hearing Aid Batteries continue to be available on the production of the appropriate user card. Please ask the volunteer on duty to assist. The Hearing Aid Clinic is back on the last Friday of the month 11am - 12.45pm for advice and minor servicing.

Our Gardens - we appreciate the time and talent of the members of Brighter Bridge of Weir in keeping our front garden looking colourful.

Do you enjoy working in the open air? Why not help in the Community Garden behind the Bridge. Please contact Janet Birch via the volunteers for details. As always, we thank you for your support -

The Bridge is your Post Office, Shop and Community Centre in the centre of the village.

Coronation In Langbank

The new Village Hall Committee secured £5,000 from The National Lottery from ‘The Kings Coronation fund’ to celebrate the Coronation and provide legacy funding for equipment for use in the village hall ... And celebrate we did!!

The Afternoon tea was enjoyed by over 100 residents, and the evening BBQ enjoyed by 120 more. A huge thank you to everyone who made this happen and to all the people who supported it. It brought the whole community together and was a fabulous day ... The first of many we hope!!

lANGBANK village hall

WEEKLY CLASSES

Monday Move It or Lose It 10.30am

Tuesday

Pilates with Petra 9.30am Dru Yoga with Claire and Jo 7.30am - 8.30am

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

Bridge of Weir Gala Day

What a difference a year makes! Gala day 2022 was wet & windy, however, the 10th of June 2023 was a glorious day! The sun shone on a fantastic space-themed parade which was led by the St Columba’s Pipe Band and followed by the Port Glasgow BB Marching Band - they and all the entrants were fantastic.

We are so grateful to all our sponsors this year. Whether they gave vouchers for their restaurants or support to individual stalls their help means that we can keep the price of stalls low (£30) for any local charities, businesses, etc. Tryptych won the best-dressed shop window and £100 will be given to their chosen charity. 75 Houston Road was the best-dressed house and they also won £100.

If you would like to help the committee why not get in touch through our Facebook page or contact us on 07779 165888. It’s not too taxing, but it helps keep this village institution going and growing!

The atmosphere in the park was cheerful, the stallholders all reported brisk trade, everyone that came helped to make the day very special.

Coffee Shop: CLOSED due to renovations - 01505 229597

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

Dance West Scotland: enquiries@dancewestscotland.co.uk

TUESDAY

HOUSTON & KILLELLAN KIRK

As we approach the summer holidays you can feel the excitement building for the younger members of our congregation at the prospect of lots of free time and hopefully more of the wonderful sunshine we have all been enjoying recently.

We were delighted to welcome the P7 pupils from Houston Primary School, their parents, carers and teachers, to our Valedictory Service on 22nd June and wish them all lots of luck and every success as they move on to High School in August.

THURSDAY

Folk Club 8pm

Move it or Loose it 10.30am – 12noon

FRIDAY

Natalie Don MSP 7th @ 12.30 – 1.15pm

Gavin Newlands MP 14th @ 12.30 – 1.30pm

Mr & Mrs McGhee 9am

Yoga - Laura Jane Lawson 10.30am

SUNDAY

Baptist Church 11am

URGENT

The Carrick requires Part Time rotational Manager that will rotate 1 week in three, also a Manager that can do overall management plan and implement small projects to improve the Centre. Both jobs require a degree of knowledge on computers and good communication skills with the public, would suit local male/ female that is semi or fully retired. A full explanation of the posts and remuneration can be discussed with interested parties.

Centre Patrons Weekly

PLEASE

Booking enquiries:

T Bill Haddow 01505 690693

T Stewart Scally 01505 674277

E thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

Our Congregational Lunch was very well attended, raising a total of £538 for projects in Mwandi and many of us enjoyed an evening of music from Glasgow Chamber Orchestra later that evening too! This summer our Manse family, the Rev’d Gary Noonan, his wife Ruth and their boys, will undertake a pulpit exchange with an American Minister and his family. They fly out at the end of June and Gary will spend several weeks preaching at Jonathan’s Church, the First Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville, Illinois. They are all looking forward to meeting the congregation there and sharing in their culture and heritage. Meanwhile the Rev’d Jonathan Warren, his wife and daughters, are coming to Houston for a month. We are looking forward to giving them a warm Scottish welcome, helping them settle in and explore lots of new places in our local area and further afield. Jonathan recently discovered that his own ancestors once lived in our village generations ago, so coming here will be extra special for him.

Regular events through the summer include our Foodbank Collection and Wee Blether every Tuesday, the Men’s Shed every Wednesday and Houston Hello on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.

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. Over the next few weeks we will be hosting Screen Memories with Michael White on 13th July and Singing for Wellbeing with Daniella on 27th July.

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.

cllr

I am delighted that the Council has come up with draft plans to curb speeding in Houston, as part of the Safe Rural Walking Initiative that the current administration approved as part of the 2022 Council Budget. This was a key pilot scheme to seriously reduce the blight of speeding and I have commended the report to Houston Community Council and the wider community. The important thing is that these reports are still open to amendment should Houston CC wish to change their recommendations. The final recommendations should get approved at the August meeting of the Infrastructure, Land, and Environment Board.

I have been contacted by many constituents concerned about the changes to bus provision across Renfrewshire and here in the Houston, Linwood, Crosslee, and Brookfield area. I share these concerns and the current administration is examining the option of community transport schemes similar to those operating in parts of Glasgow. These are a kind of tri-partite partnership between the community, councils and the private sector to fill in key gaps in bus provision which have been left by commercial bus companies and aim to act in the public interest. Securing funding for these schemes are the key challenge, but I certainly believe this is worth investigation.

Next Deadline... #339 August 2023: 12th July 18

The old library centre

kilbarchan

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 when our full programme of activities will be starting.

The Old Library Centre

9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, PA10 2EF Kipco is a Scottish charity, SC031251,

T 01505 706070

E kipcokil@hotmail.com

W www.kipco.org

Lochwinnoch Community Men’s Shed

“Men’s Sheds are similar to garden sheds – a place to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practice skills and enjoy making and mending. The difference is that garden sheds and their activities are often solitary in nature while Men’s Sheds are the opposite. They’re about social connections and friendship building, sharing skills and knowledge and, of course, a lot of laughter.”

For more information see the Scottish Men’s Shed Association website at: https://scottishmsa.org.uk

A core group, with the guidance and assistance of the Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust, has been working on the formation of the Lochwinnoch Community Men’s Shed (LCMS), to provide a facility for men from the village and surrounding areas. The intention is to pass on skills and trades and to provide inter-generational mentoring. The LCMS will provide an inclusive, safe, friendly environment, where men can enjoy each other’s company and enhance self-worth and work ethics. They will be able to share skills that benefit both the individual and the community and to evolve activities and projects that build confidence and promote good health.

We are currently arranging a group asset transfer, with the kind co-operation of the Lochwinnoch Sailing Club, of their soon to be redundant, portacabin adjacent to the Castle Semple Centre water-sports area. In the meantime, the Sailing Club has afforded us the use of the portacabin on Tuesday evenings from 7.30pm and Friday mornings from 10am for meetings. It is the intention that, with the involvement of LCMS members, we can assist the Sailing Club with the works required to expedite their move into their new portacabin facilities. This will then enable us to upgrade and fit out the existing portacabin to suit the requirements of the Shed members.

Interested? Facebook page – Lochwinnoch Community Men’s Shed; Call Dave on 07523 129122; Pop into the Lochwinnoch Workspace Office at 39 High Street Lochwinnoch, or, better still, come along to one of our meetings.

Howwood Parish Church

Given continued local concern about the changes to bus services and how that adversely impacts on constituents trying to get to both work and hospital appointments, I have written to the Transport Minister of the Scottish Government requesting that he meet with COSLA to try and identity funding to allow local authorities like Renfrewshire Council, to bring local buses back under local control.

I am delighted that the Council has come up with draft plans to curb speeding in both Howwood and Kilbarchan, as part of the Safe Rural Walking Initiative that I negotiated with the current administration at the 2022 Council Budget. I have commended the report to Howwood and Kilbarchan Community Councils and the wider community. The important thing is that these reports are still open to amendment should the CC’s wish to change their recommendations. The second phase of this initiative will cover Lochwinnoch. At the time of writing we have been blessed to have several weeks of sustained hot temperatures, which is Scottish terms certainly counts as a successful summer so far. Whether constituents are having a staycation or vacation, I want to wish them a very restful and enjoyable summer holiday. Whilst the Council goes into summer recess at the end of June until Mid-August, I can still be contacted either by phone or email if you need support and assistance on any civic matter.

T 07534 148 224 t CllrAndy4Ward8

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

F IndependentVoice/Ward9JohnstoneAndVillages

Haven’t we had a marvellous few weeks with glorious sunshine?

The Guild and the coffee morning are closed for the summer at present.

No doubt everybody has heard or read about the changes within the Church of Scotland. Many churches are closing or amalgamating with another church. Howwood Parish Church will NOT be closing and will continue for many years to come.

However, we could do with more members or visitors on a Sunday to help our wonderful Kirk continue as a main part of the village. There are lots of people new to the village who, perhaps, have been members of another church. Why not come along on a Sunday and meet the congregation. A very warm welcome will be extended to all.

We meet every Sunday at 10am and in the hall afterwards for a cup of tea and a chat with friends.

Please think about this and we look forward to meeting new faces. All are welcome in this place.

Kilbarchan Parish Church

Services continue over the summer at 11am, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith. There is a live stream on Sunday mornings, with the service available on YouTube and through the website: www. kilbarchankirk.org where you will find all the information about the church and organisations. The church continues to support the Trussell Trust Food Bank, which is in great need of many items.

Kilbarchan NWR

The group will be visiting Holmwood House, taking part in the national “Big Walk”, 5 miles on the Leven Trail to Balloch from Dalreoch station. The Book Group will discuss “Mongol” by Uuganaa Ramsay and there will be various coffee meetings. If interested, please phone 01505 703786 or have a look at: www.nwr. org.uk

and is run by volunteers

david wilson

Shared Services including roads, fleet, transportation, grounds and internal audit was developed initially to include Inverclyde, West Dunbartonshire and East Dunbartonshire. It has now been decided to disband shared services apart from the audit function. Given the difficulties we have with our budget, savings will have to come from elsewhere.

The Scottish Government is proposing a National Care Service for Scotland, Stage 1 of the Bill was due to finish in June 2023, this has been extended throughout the summer. In its response to the consultation Inverclyde Council said “there is no evidence that suggests a National Care Service will improve QUALITY.”

I am grateful for the majority of compliments with regard to the new pavements in the village. There are plans to install more flower planters, which will also improve the streetscape environment. The petitions committee heard the plea for a pedestrian crossing on Lochwinnoch Road. Roads engineers were not supportive of this due to loss of parking places and interruption to traffic flow. The residents fought their corner well.

Schools were busy during June. St Columba’s took 85 Pipers and Drummers to New York to take part in the Tartan Day Parade up 6th Avenue with a flashmob in Times Square on the last evening. More about the Beating of the Retreat in Birkmyre Park next month. The Band is now competing at a higher category and came second in the UK Championships.

Kilmacolm PS is celebrating the year in style with performances of all the music groups including voice, instruments and dance. One of the many respected and friendly faces of KPS, Elaine Cameron is retiring. Many hundreds of pupils have passed through her reception area in the past 26 years. We wish her well. Port Glasgow HS again displayed their musical strength with a presentation of Queen’s We Will Rock You.

Church services in July will be at the Old Kirk and in August at St Columba’s Churches. A decision has been made to sell the Old Kirk Manse and purchase one more appropriate and modern for a Minister.

‘The Centre & Café close for Summer from 3.30pm on Friday 30th June, reopening 9am on Monday 10th July. Thereafter the Café will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

The Board and Staff of KNCC wish all patrons a wonderful summer break and look forward to welcoming them back next month’.

ward 1 cllr Stephen Mccabe Kilmacolm Civic Trust

The extended play area in Birkmyre Park is being well used since it opened.

The Council’s Planning Board agreed on 7th June to renew the various planning permissions in place for the housing development at Balrossie House for a further three years. Hopefully we will see progress on this development.

Boundaries Scotland is recommending that Kilmacolm and Quarrier’s Village become part of a larger Inverclyde County Constituency rather than, as at present, being part of the Renfrewshire North and West constituency. This proposal reflects the falling number of electors across Inverclyde. The Council supported the proposal at our meeting on 8th June. If agreed by the Scottish Parliament, the proposal would come into effect at the next Scottish Parliament election in 2026.

I have made representations to Forestry and Land Scotland and Green Action Trust about the need for parking for visitors to Knockmountain and the new Kilmacolm Community Woodland. Currently neither organisation is willing to provide visitor parking and both say they are not seeking to encourage more visitors to the area. Forestry and Land Scotland say they will monitor the number of visitors to their site and Green Action Trust say they are happy to have a discussion with the Roads Service to see if something can be done to address the concerns of residents.

The Council is currently recruiting for 20 modern apprenticeship positions in Business Administration, Customer Service, Childcare, Horticulture, Joinery and Sports Coaching. Closing date for applications is Monday 3rd July. For more information and to apply visit, www.inverclyde.gov.uk/ modern-apprentice.

At the time of writing, there is no definitive date for the re-opening of Kilmacolm Post Office. I am advised that the new operator is still experiencing problems with contractors and getting materials.

I don’t have a surgery this month due to the summer recess. You can still contact me directly to discuss any matters that are of concern to you

T 01475 712 020 (office hours)

E Stephen.McCabe@Inverclyde.gov.uk

o 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm, PA13 4HL

In November 1995 the readers of ‘Model Railway News’ were invited to copy the layout of station buildings, the sidings and the signal box of the Kilmacolm Railway. A copy of this article is in the Civic Trust archive. The best way of accessing this is to go to the Kilmacolm Civic Trust website and then to the section ‘About Kilmacolm’ and then to ‘Search our Archives’.

For those interested in further railway information, entering such terms as railway, station, “signal box”, “station master”, “last train”, into the search facility will be rewarding – note inverted commas when entering two or more worded phrases.

There are copies of some of the Minutes of the board of the Greenock and Ayrshire Railway Company at the start of the trains in 1866 and also various articles on the history of the line. (e.g., Trains Illustrated – Greenock, Princes Pier Line). Surprisingly there is a newspaper cutting with residents of Largs complaining about a proposal for a Kilmacolm-Largs railway in1899.

Kilmacolm station regularly received awards for its floral decorations.

The line closed in 1983 and the tracks were hastily removed. The archive holds some of the tickets sold for the last train, final timetables, and many photographs.

The Civic Trust continues to be vigilant regarding the ongoing threat to the green belt around Kilmacolm and Quarriers.

Please consider joining the Trust to help us with this. Annual subscription is just £10.

You can join through the website www.kilmacolmcivictrust.org

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

SOLAS: The Solas bereavement drop-in group will be meeting in the Lounge of the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm on Thursday 13th July 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: OUTLOOK takes a break in July and August, our next meeting will be on 14th September.

GOOD BOOK GROUP

The Good Book Group meets regularly every month in the Kidston Hall Lounge and enjoys (sometimes not all of the members!) a range of very different books, chosen by members.

So far this year among the books we have read are Endless Night by Agatha Christie book, which was evidently her favourite of the books she had written and a very modern novel called Stepping Up by Sarah Turner, which many of the group could identify with! (scatty daughter and highly organised mother!)

The group continues to argue amicably about the chosen book over a drink and nibbles.

Tuesday 18th July - the group is in for a real treat - an author visit. The Rev Iain Ramsden, former locum minister of the Old Kirk is coming along to talk about writing his Tales of a Highland Minister which was published recently. The Group is looking forward to this and would like to extend a warm invitation to anyone who would like to come along. If there is a huge attendance, there can be a move into the Kidston Hall!

Meetings over the next few months are on: 15th August, 19th September, 17th October and 21st November.

SUMMER SERVICES: Joint Sunday worship with St Columba’s Church takes place in Kilmacolm Old Kirk on Sundays 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th July. The joint services continue in St Columba’s Church on 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August. Refreshments are served after the service for all to enjoy some companionship. All Old Kirk 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 at http:// kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk/

Schools & Sports

Langbank Primary

On Thursday 26th May our school welcomed our families to Sports Day at Station Field. We were delighted with the turn out, over 120 families joined us for the event. Our children displayed excellent sportsmanship on the day. Well done to all our winners and to everyone who participated with great energy and enthusiasm. A warm thank you to Tesco, Port Glasgow store for providing fruit and ice poles for all our wonderful sports day participants. Thank you again to Steve McIntosh @ H.A.W.Q. Drone Services for capturing Sports Day for us. Drone footage available on glow.

We were absolutely delighted to be awarded a Gold Reading School Award. This is the highest level of award and is testament to the dedication of our Literacy Leadership Committee who have worked tirelessly to promote reading for enjoyment across our school community. Well done to everyone involved.

Duchal Nursery

Next Deadline...

#339 August 2023: 12th July

What a wonderful sunny summer term we are enjoying. We are spending so much of our day outside enjoying the fresh air, often in the cool under our canopy, or enjoying the sunny spots when it’s not too hot, it is so wonderful to have the flexibility and versatility to vary our learning opportunities.

We’ve explored the local woodlands, enjoying the calm and quiet of our surrounding nature, continuing our mini beast topic we have discovered all sorts of creepy crawlies while we have been out and about, enjoyed our “forest snacks”, played hide and seek and embraced the outdoor life! Sports Day continued its wonderful tradition, with our young athletes cheered on by so many friends and families, they so enjoyed themselves, as did the parents in their own races which were as competitive as ever! Great excitement with the arrival of our bus to take us on our summer trip to Pollock Park. A huge thank you to former Duchal parent, Denise Neely for a fabulous day. We hunted for mini beasts in the forest with our big nets, found centipedes, slugs, spiders and wood lice! We said hello to all of the Highland cows, learning about their horns, their tags, their sense of smell, their habitat and their diet. We then enjoyed an outdoor picnic and explore of the gardens before heading home full of memories. By the time you read this, term will be over and our young children will have performed their hearts out at our Summer Concert (they are practising with gusto!) and we will be saying a fond farewell to our older children who are now fully prepared for their next step as they move on to a variety of primary schools across the local area. We wish them luck and remember please pop back and visit to tell us all about it!

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 (including those living in Renfrewshire). Please get in touch for more information, we are open daily 8am – 6pm, offering greater flexibility of care for parents. Visit our website for more information – www.duchal.com and find us on Facebook. If you would like to come and visit the Nursery get in touch on 01505 874358 or email: info@duchal.com

We are delighted to share the fantastic news that all of our P6/7 pupils who took part in this year’s Scottish Mathematical Challenge have achieved an award. The children have worked very hard to undertake a series of complex problem solving questions and have showcased their abilities to a high standard. The children were presented with a certificate from the school at assembly and will receive their awards from the University of Strathclyde in the summer term.

St Columba’s - Moving on up!

Here at St Columba’s, we know that transitions can be a big deal, whether it is starting Junior 1, moving up to Senior School for Transitus or indeed Senior I, or leaving school to go out into the world of work or further study. That’s why we have been working hard over the last few weeks to ensure that our pupils, whether they are new to the school or not, find the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

To make the move from nursery to school a little easier, all our J1 pupils are assigned J6 buddies who will look out for them and be a friendly face as they settle into their new environment. This year, the children had fun spending time in the sunshine with their buddies, as well as meeting their class teachers and are all excited to be starting school in August.

For our Junior 6 classes it is all about familiarising themselves with their new surroundings at Senior School. As well as spending a day with their class teachers and another following a Transitus timetable, they also enjoyed visiting for weekly science lessons, where they got to meet Marty the praying mantis.

The new SI spent the day with Ms Fulton, Depute Rector (Pastoral) and her team taking part in a day of teambuilding activities, culminating in the fantastic Fashionable First Year challenge – watching them frantically creating stylish masterpieces from newspaper on the Girdwood Green was truly a sight to behold!

Meanwhile, our SVI have taken part in a number of activities designed to help them meet the demands they are likely to face at university and work. For Columbans, transitions are not to be feared, but embraced!

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-to-date with all of the goings on at St Columba’s. www.st-columbas.org | admissions@st-columbas.org

Kilbarchan Community Nursery SCIO

Lilias Day Success!

We were delighted to win the cup for first prize for best decorated float on Lilias day. This was the result of amazing teamwork with parents, staff and children working together to produce the props and artwork for the float. The theme was, ‘I’M A MINIBEAST GET ME OUT OF HERE !” The children dressed up as colourful minibeasts and explorers on the day. They were VERY excited about their win! We still have availability for termtime nursery places, including extended day, as well as breakfast and after school sessions for children attending Kilbarchan Primary. For more information contact the nursery on: 01505 704839.

The Ginger Cat Children’s Bookshop Book Reviews

Sammy Striker and the Football Cup

ISBN: 9781509896936

By Catherine Emmett | Illustrated by Joe Berger Macmillan Children’s Books

Since Sammy was little she has carried her football everywhere with her, to the shops, to the zoo, even to the loo! As she gets older she plays in the park with her friends and is eventually spotted by Melissa McDream, the coach of the country’s under eight team. Sammy trains with the team and enjoys the glitz and glammer of a life as a professional player, but the football pitch is much bigger than the park and she struggles to kick the ball into the goal because her kicks are all curved. On match day Sammy starts on the bench, but when a player is sent off, Sammy must step up to play. After a pep talk from her coach, will Sammy’s curved ball win the day?! Perfect for age 3+

Bite Risk ISBN: 9781398520943

by S.J. Wills | Simon & Schuster Ltd

For fans of Stranger Things and Skulduggery

Pleasant, this is the first in an exciting new teen horror series. Sel Archer lives in a normal town with normal residents, except for one night a month ... When the full moon comes out, almost all of the adults turn into werewolves, and it’s up to the young people to protect themselves from danger. But, as this quiet life begins to unravel, and the Turned start to escape, can Sel and his friends uncover exactly who - or what - is watching their every move, before it’s too late? Welcome, to the TOWN OF THE TURNED... Age 11+ fans of horror

35 Main St, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NR

Bridge of Weir Primary

Animalium ISBN: 9781800783706

by Katie Scott and Jenny Broom

Welcome to Animalium Junior. This museum is open all hours, and there are over 160 specimens to explore. Walk the galleries to meet ferocious lions, flamboyant tropical birds, tiny poisonous frogs and gentle giants in this beautifully illustrated book which looks at creatures from every walk of life. This new edition of the bestselling Animalium includes text especially written for younger readers, perfect for children aged 7+. Stunning artwork from the award-winning artist Katie Scott brings each animal to life. Step inside to explore the incredible animal world...

Call of the Titanic ISBN: 9781913696696

by Lindsay Galvin

| Chicken House Ltd

An historical adventure with a twist, from bestselling author Lindsay Galvin. Young cabin steward, Sid, is proud to be working on the Titanic, the greatest stream liner ever built. Clara dreams of adventure at sea, and discovers it the hard way as a stowaway on a much smaller ship, the Carpathia. Here, she meets a giant bear of a dog: Rigel, who has a reputation for mischief. What none of them can foresee is how they’ll need each other on the night Titanic collides with an iceberg. Or that an even more extraordinary creature might also answer their call ... The third middle-grade historical adventure from the author of Darwin’s Dragons and My Friend the Octopus. A new spin on the sinking of the Titanic, offering an uplifting alternate history of real-life survivor, Sid Daniels. Perfect for 9+ lovers of historical fiction.

What a year it has been at school! It has been such a full year of wonderful opportunities, visits and visitors, special events and community partnerships – as well as all the fantastic learning we do!

Mini Mudder

What fun we had at the Mini Mudder event organised by P5 and P6/5. They set out a full assault course in our amazing playgrounds and the weather was kind to us – the perfect day in which to get soaked and muddy! Thank you to everyone who donated to this sponsored event; a superb amount was raised to go towards resources for our school.

Moving On

As always at this time of year we are sad to see our Primary 7s move on to their secondary education. We thoroughly enjoyed the Valedictory show they put on for us to say goodbye - so much talent on show! They are a wonderful year group - we will miss them so much, but wish them all the best for a bright and happy future. We look forward to welcoming our new primary 1s and getting to know them as they join our wonderful school.

Martin Brown

It was a privilege to welcome author and illustrator, Martin Brown, to our school. P4–7 enjoyed a talk about his work. It was fascinating to watch him draw and to learn that we can all become good at drawing with practice! Some great historical costumes were also on show to celebrate 30 years of Horrible Histories. Thank you to Aileen Jeffrey from The Ginger Cat Bookshop (now located in Tryptych Studios in the village) for organising the event.

Morar Care Home

We are also enjoying our new partnership with Morar Care Home. The Bookworms Pupil Reading Group spent time reading to the residents and enjoyed chatting about their memories of school. The choir also had a lovely afternoon singing some memorable songs which hopefully brought some pleasure and cheer. Thank you for making us feel so welcome.

Ranfurly Castle Golf Club

Members have been enjoying a beautiful spell of weather over several weeks now, but the ground staff have been finding it challenging. We never seem to be happy, it is either too wet or too dry, but despite the lack of rain, the course is looking amazing and the greens are in first class condition.

There have been a fair number of competitions throughout May, starting with the Macmillan Cancer Stableford which was won by Louise Cooper with 38points and 2nd was Sheila Biggart with 37 points. This was followed closely by the Marie Curie Stableford which was won by Sheila Swinnerton with 36 points and 2nd was Kate Scott with 35 points. Both these competitions raising money for a very good cause. The Centenary Strokeplay was played on 31st May. Winner was Marion Munro with a net score of 71 and runner-up was Karin Mackenzie with a net score of 73.

3 Medals have been played - Saturday 20th May Silver Winner was Lesley Robertson with a net 73 and Bronze Winner was Kate Scott with a net 73. Saturday 3rd June Bronze Winner was Marissa Barr with a net 69. Wednesday 7th June Silver Winner was Louise Cooper with a net 71 and Bronze Winner was Senga Nixon with a wonderful net 64. The Club Captains day was held on Saturday 10th June in wonderful weather. There was a good turnout for this event and the overall winner of the Captains Cup was Iain Gray with 40 points. 1st Class Winner was Callum Campbell with 38 points, 2nd Class Winner was Iain Gray and 3rd Class Winner was George Doak with 36 points. The Winner of the Ladies Competition was Marion Munro with 35 points.

This year the two Captains have decided to have a Charity Bunker which will be supporting the work of Quarriers. The bunker in question is the new one at the side of the 18th green and anyone finding themselves in this, should pay £1 for the privilege! Although we do not want to encourage poor scores, it is hoped that there will be a fair number of unlucky members finding themselves in this bunker.

Finally, the Ladies West Renfrewshire Team played their match at Ralston Golf Club on 8th June. It was a friendly occasion and the team were delighted to come home with a win, 3 and half matches to 2 and half.

After an exciting match between local rivals Ranfurly Castle and Old Ranfurly, the Castle team retained the Muirhead Trophy for the 3rd year in a row. Congratulations to all players for an exciting, friendly game.

Castle Semple Sailing Club

Saturday May 27th saw the RYA discover sailing day at the club. This was an opportunity for anyone to come along and have a sail, regardless of previous experience. It was great to see so many new faces getting out on the water in a stiff breeze, assisted by club members providing sailing assistance, safety boat cover and catering. If you missed out and would like a sail, we’d be happy to sort something out, just email: info@ castlesemplesc.co.uk

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

Birkmyre FREE

The racing season is now in full flow, with an excellent turnout at the club for events in some great sailing conditions. Members have also been recording excellent results in a wide range of events across the country.

As always, we’d love to hear from new members - come along to the club and say hello on a Sunday, or contact us via: info@castlesemplesc.co.uk

Women’s Rugby Fit Class

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

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

Ladies Section Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club

Congratulations go to our Annodata team, winning 3 and 2 against Whitecraigs at home. Our Bronze team friendly also had an amazing 3-0 win away against Paisley Golf Club. Well played all.

Paisley 10k Road Race and Fun Run

This year’s event, brought to you by OneRen, will take place on Sunday 20th August. The 10K Road Race is suitable for runners of all levels from novices to experienced club and international runners. For families, friends and youngsters, there is the shorter Fun Run that takes in some of Paisley Town Centre’s most famous landmarks.

In 2022, 2,541 people raced around the streets of Paisley in the 10K road race and Fun Run, and the 2023 event is sure to be another great one not to be missed! Whatever your reason, lets run! #Paisley10k

Our Ladies Day was another huge success. Judging by the smiles, it was a fun game for all as the sun shone well into the evening. Proceeds raised on the day and donated to Alzheimer Scotland of £1,365. Thank you to everyone who took part and all those involved in making the day a success.

Congratulations also to winners on the day, Moira Galletly and Colin Kier.

Congratulations to newcomer Judith Clark (pictured left) and Lorna Bell for each scoring a Hole in One at the 13th hole.

A reminder for your diaries that the that the Ladies Open is on 6th July. Some Spaces are available to book via Golf Empire.

Stableford Greensomes from 10am - 2.30pm

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 | Fun Run Adult - £12 Fun Run Child - £8 | Adult & Child Discount (U-16) - £14

www.oneren.org/paisley-10k

Move it or Lose it - Ladies Who Lunch

At our classes, we don’t just have fun exercising to great music - occasionally, we will meet out with class for some lunch. Thanks to everyone from our Bridge of Weir class who came along for great food, good company and gorgeous weather and to the staff at Bernie’s for making our day so special.

Old Course Ranfurly golf club

With the wonderful summer weather we are experiencing, The Old Course is in wonderful condition and looking fantastic. Well done to our hard working greenkeeping staff for their tremendous efforts.

We were honoured to host a Scottish Golf PING Open Series qualifying event in May which attracted golfers from across Scotland. Congratulations to our very own Stuart Rae who came out top on the day to secure his place in the Grand Final later this summer.

Congratulations to Old Course members, Chris Dickson and Chantal Robertson (pictured) for winning the recent Largs Mixed Open Greensomes last month.

Birkmyre Youths In Running for Scotland U16 Squad

A total of 7 Birkmyre Rugby Club youth players have made it through the initial Scottish Rugby Union Pathways selection process and are now part of group of 100 boys in contention for the Scotland U16 set up.

Five of the seven boys only play rugby due to their association with Birkmyre and it is a great reflection on all seven of the boys’ abilities, the club itself and the dedication of their coaches that they have made it to this stage of the process.

Birkmyre runs a successful mini & youth set up from primary school age through to late teens and ultimately, senior rugby. The club would like to wish the boys all the best for the next stage of selection.

Strathgryffe Tennis, Squash & Fitness Club

Another away win for The Old Course and huge congratulations to Ryan Watson (pictured above) who had the lowest scratch score of 74 in the Renfrewshire Schools Championship at Renfrew Golf Club earlier this month.

Finally, The Old Course is renowned for its social activities and last month we held an Eden Mill gin tasting evening whish well attended. Lots more social events coming up in the calendar during the rest of the year.

Four young tennis players have qualified for the West of Scotland regional finals of an event which leads on to the grass courts of Wimbledon.

The event, called Play Your Way to Wimbledon, is a doubles competition for children under the age of 18 and was won by Ava Macleod and Myla Khouly in the girl’s event and Tristan Mills and Nikhil Bolloprogada in the boy’s event.

Strathgryffe is running tennis and sports camps over the summer holidays for children aged 3-15 years. There will be 30+ activities available. Half day, full day and early drop off booking options available. For further details visit: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ StrathgryffeLTC/Coaching/Camps

L to R:- Aron Hamilton, Jamie Stein, Max Potter, Kieran McNicol, Logan Muir, Harry Flintoff, Ethan Hart

Kilmacolm Golf Club

It’s been busy up at Kilmacolm Golf Club as we have enjoyed this fabulous spell of sunny weather.

The Ladies Section had a very successful charity day, raising money for this year’s club charity – Alzheimer ‘s Scotland. As well as some great golf, there was a wonderful array of home baking and plants for sale as well as some treats in the raffle and tombola.

The Ladies Captain’s Day was a fun Greensomes with groups of ladies playing both 18 and 9 holes before enjoying a delicious afternoon tea, many thanks to Chef Neil and Captain Maura for a wonderful day.

Our Sponsors enjoyed a glorious day out on the course, we thank them all for their support of our club. Also a big thank you to our team of volunteers who have helped around the course and clubhouse, which is looking very smart with a new coat of paint! 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.

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.

Date : 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; or visit the website: https://www.entrycentral.com/kilmacolmraces

St Vincent’s Hospice - Golf Day!

Friday 25th August at Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club, Bridge of Weir

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-day-2023/we look forward to seeing you there!

The winning team were the amazing Sally Dillon and Jane Pirie, with Debbie Campbell and Elaine Brechin winning the 9 hole competition.

Out and About

Colourful Kilmacolm

Here’s a puzzle question! What’s the connection between Colourful Kilmacolm celebrating its first 10 years in May and the recently planted summer displays? No idea? Why do we replace plants every spring? Because they are annuals and won’t last from one year to the next or, if some did, they would not perform nearly as well and as vigorously as when in their prime. See where we’re going? After 10 years some, or if we’re honest most, of our members are a little less fit than they were at the outset, so although they continue to support us financially, many are less able to carry out gardening activities. In other words, like plants, our membership needs renewal.

Conclusion: if you are young/younger and fit and appreciate what we do in the village to help keep it attractive, we need your help. Please consider joining us. We are on Facebook, our website is www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can contact Peter (01505 872448) or Liz (07963 973031) for more information. We are just looking for an hour or so now and again to help with weeding and general tidying of plants. Community involvement is the name of the game.

RSPB Lochwinnoch

Well summer is well and truly here, with warm, long days and shorter nights, replacing the gloom of winter. This is the ideal time to visit us at our wonderful reserve. To make the most of the sunshine and family time, head down to our reserve, there’s lots to do and see.

Our woodland trails are cool and shaded, allowing for fun in even the hottest of days. This is the ideal time to look for damsel and dragonflies. Why not have a look around our pools and lochside as you explore the trails? There are also lots of butterflies and bees buzzing about the many varied wildflowers. Among our summer visitors are sand martins and swallows, whose aerial acrobatics you can watch as they swoop over the water, catching insects on the wing.

To keep the whole family busy, you can take part in our kids self-led activities. These activities change every month, just keep an eye on our social media pages. If you fancy a more chilled out visit you can stroll the woodland trail, spot the wildlife, or wander along the board walk. You can then finish your day off by coming into the centre for a hot or cold drink, ice cream or another tasty treat.

Dragon Hunt

1st - 31st August £3 per pack

Come and explore the woodland trails and learn more about dragonflies and damselflies. Find the hidden dragons as you go along the woodland trail. Complete the wildlife challenges, find the missing letters and complete the mystery word. Self-led event fun for all the family.

Summer Super Spotter Scavenger Hunt

1st to 31st July 9.30am - 4pm £3.50 per pack

Take part in this fun self-led activity to see what wild discoveries you can make! Use your wildlife spotting skills to see how many creatures on your activity sheet you can find, discover cool stuff about them and claim your prize back at the visitor centre once completed!

Our reserve shop continues to sell all your bird feeding requirements, binoculars and scopes. For further info please contact us: – 01505 842663 or email us on lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk we are also on Facebook @RSPBLochwinnochNR and twitter @RSPBLochwinnoch

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF

BRIGHTER BRIDGE OF WEIR SIZZLING SUMMERTIME

Well, this summer certainly came in with a bang! Record-breaking temperatures practically everywhere. Our summer plants arrived just before Gala Day this year, and the team pulled out all the stops to get the tubs and baskets along the parade route filled. Between Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon they succeeded. That’s more than 70 planters over a distance of almost 1,500 yards (about 1,400 metres).

The remaining planters and the open areas such as the Woodland Garden, were planted up by the following Wednesday. That was quite a shift! As long as there’s enough water available, the village should be looking great this summer. That’s provided that the light-fingered phantom gardener leaves enough plants; would you believe that someone helped themselves to a choice selection from one of the planters outside Bernie’s Café? A phormium and several begonias — gone! So, if you see a garden near you that suddenly looks like the terrace at Livery Walk, let us know. Remember that we’re always on the lookout for some help. If you can spare an hour or two now and again, please get in touch. You’ll find contact details on our Facebook page, or www.brighterbridgeofweir.org Alternatively, call Neil on 07969 642487, or Dougie on 07810 722806.

Tub shows the kind of plants that were taken

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society

Bridge of Weir Hillwalkers

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society enjoyed their Summer outing in June, 48 members visited Dumfries House and Gardens near Cumnock. It was a perfect day with warm sunshine that enhanced the beauty of the extensive flower gardens, and vegetable plots. The Victorian glasshouse was filled with exquisite shrubs in full flower. The guided tour of Dumfries House was awesome, learning of its history, viewing the Chippendale collection, the fine art and tapestries, all now saved and secure for future generations through the work of the Princes Trust.

We now look forward to the Annual Flower Show to be held on Saturday 2nd September in Kilmacolm Cargill community centre. The show schedules have been sent out to members, detailing the classes in each section - Cut flowers, Pot plants/hanging baskets, Vegetables, Novice section, Floral Art, Homebaking, and Young Gardeners classes for schoolchildren.

If you would like to receive a copy of the show schedule and details of how to enter as an exhibitor please contact the show secretary on emailjill.russ100@btinternet.com.

The Garden at the Cross, Kilmacolm, is in the care of the KHS and our chairman, Ian Morrice, takes great pride in maintaining the garden for all to enjoy - when shopping, visiting the community centre or library, or relaxing at the seating nearby. The garden is looking at its best after a month of glorious warm sunshine.

Please visit our website where you will find more information of the activities, photos, of the KHS - www.kilmacolmhorticultural.com.

We look forward to welcoming members and visitors to the Show in September.

Kilbarchan Smile

Summer has arrived in Kilbarchan

We have experienced a variety of conditions in recent weeks and have had several memorable trips, from being battered by winds on the Munro An Caisteal, walking the Devil’s Trail near Barr and a very Misty walk to the Mull of Galloway, a sunny climb of Ben Lawers and a visit by train to the very remote Corrour in the heart of Rannoch Moor on a superb day when Beinn na Lap and Leum Uilliam both overlooking the very scenic Loch Ossian were climbed.

Kilbarchan Smile will be hosting an information stand on the green at the bottom of Ewing Street on Saturday 8th July. There will be light refreshments and cake for anyone who wants to stop and chat about what we do and the projects that we would like to carry out within the village. We also plan to have a few plants available for a small donation to our funds.

Ultimately our aim is to entice other community minded villagers to join our team and together we can improve the environment within the village.

We are hoping to let everyone know who we are and what we do. We are looking for suggestions and feedback, so why not come along and see us on Saturday 8th July from 10am to 2pm.

In the meantime we continue to maintain various areas within the village and we want to express our sincere thanks to all our kind neighbours who help us out in our constant battle with watering these gardens.

A misty Mull of Galloway

The remote Corrour Station

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society

June’s back-door shade temperatures reached 3435 degrees Centigrade! This month? Temperatures are predicted to be aboveaverage with settled conditions continuing into mid-July. Gardeners should be selective when watering, focusing on new trees and shrubs beddingin and possibly stressed. Shallow rooted shrubs, like rhododendrons, will struggle - limp leaves will indicate they are thirsty. Bedding will quickly droop, but will respond when watered – water around the roots, avoiding the leaves/buds which might scorch in the sun. “Top watering” results in water running down the leaves and nowhere near the roots! With vegetables, regular watering around the roots will prevent cracks, splits and malformed shapes. Remember fresh water is essential for birds and, if you have hedgehogs, they too will be desperate for water.

Many of us heat water ‘on demand’, so collect the cold run-off in a jug and water your plants. Around 5 pts or 3 litres can be collected each time you turn on the hot water. In ’76 washing-up water was filtered through a sieve then poured onto the plants where the soap acted as a bug deterrent!

Last month the Gardening Club visited Dumfries House, Ayrshire. Spring shrubs, having struggled with the heat, were almost over, but other plants were thriving, especially in the walled garden which has a hidden irrigation system. The Club also manned a stall at Gala Day, selling plants and answering gardening questions.

This month’s speaker, John Wilson, talks about Growing Wildflowers in our Gardens. His retirement project was to create a wildlife garden. He describes the transformation of the 2.5 acre site into a flowering meadow attracting birds, mammals and insects. Come along to Freeland Church Hall on Thursday 13th July at 8pm. To hear more. Visitors always welcome! Find us on Facebook, or contact Donald Hepburn on 01505 612898.

Dog care in summer...

Signs of burned pads:

• Limping or refusing to walk

• Licking or chewing at the feet

• Pads darker in colour

• Missing part of pad

• Blisters or redness

Signs of heatstroke:

• Heavy panting and difficulty breathing

• Excessively drooling

• Lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated

• Collapsed or vomiting

www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/summer/dogs

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

Advertising Feature

Sales & Wants

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

Items For sale

H OUSEHOLD & G ARDEN

Date For YoUr DIarY

Loch Ness 24

Local Community Halls

• 52cm across the corners, 45cm across the flats. Lower shelf at the base. Suitable as side table or lamp table. Good condition. £20. Tel: 07534 044067.

Small table, polished dark wood, hexagonal shape. 46cm height.

Saturday 26th - Sunday 27th August

Loch Ness

A beautiful King Size Oak Bed with beautiful ironwork design

• on both ends. Picture available if requested. £275. Tel: 01505 872813 or 07763 570237.

Shower Tray 900 x 800 White Stone Resin with Hi- Flow chrome

• finish outlet. Brand New. £75. Tel: 07551 947132. Tile Adhesive, 40kg white, S2 flexible. £20. Tel: 07551

• 947132.

• Tel: 07814 769719.

Ikea Lidhult SO3 Grey Chaise Longue. Excellent condition. £275.

E LECTRICAL & G AS

Revlon brush hair styling tool. Used once. Very good working condition. £20. Tel: 07722 034449.

Sp ORTS

• grips. £180. Tel: 07896 525795.

Gents Ping G20 right hand irons 3 - P, regular steel shafts, Ping

O THER I TEMS

Thule square bar roof bar set, with full fittings, spanner, and key

• for locks. Suits vehicle with embedded T track on roof, such as Ford Galaxy 2006-2010. Thule currently selling for £195, will sell for just £50. Tel: 07534 044067.

WanteD Items

• or 07710 777571.

Old records Wanted 45`s & LP`s Cash paid. Tel: 01505 873958

The Loch Ness 24 is an epic 24hr solo or team relay trail running race on the banks of the world’s most famous Loch.

Take on the ultimate endurance challenge and clock up as many 7km laps as you can along the most spectacular trails through ancient Scots pine forest and along the beaches of Loch Ness.

Local lily grower requires the use of a greenhouse/polytunnel in

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

• 01505 329638 or 07765 115347.

Cash paid for Vinyl Records and Music CDs (a few or a lot). Tel:

Take a break anytime you need, soak up the camaraderie at the event village and camp out under the stars in the most iconic location.

Collector looking for His Master’s Voice portable gramophones

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

For Sale g Wanted g Free g

Name:

Email:

Tel:

Mob:

Please visit the website at https:// stvincentshospice.org/fundraising-events/ loch-ness-24/ for further information.

sales & wants online?

Just go to: AND COM p LETE THE ONLINE FORM !

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

Defibrillator Sites

• The Cornerstone, Greenock Rd • Bishopton Community Centre

RIDGE OF

Co-Op • Old Ranfurly Golf Club • Ranfurly Castle Golf Club • Gate Hs, BoW Leather Works

LDERSLIE

• Elderslie Golf Club

• 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,

Promote your business from only £19. 20 (inc. VAT) per month - ad this size (2cm x 1col classified B&W)

L INWOOD

• Onyx Leisure Centre

• Spar, Clippens Rd

• Asda

(carpark wall)

L OCHWINNOCH

• Outside GP Practice, Main St pAISLE y

• Russell Institute

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

6th December

Q UARRIERS

• William Quarriers House (entrance to Faith Ave)

• Country View

• The Health Hub