346 April 2024 - Gryffe Advertizer

Wake Up and Smell The Books!

by Rona Simpson

I love the smell of books. New books and old books alike! Apparently, it’s a thing. Dr. Oliver Tearle, English Professor at Loughborough University and committed bibliophile decided the word to describe this is bibliosmia – pulling together the Greek words for book ‘biblio’ and smell ‘osme’.

But it’s not just the smell; it’s the feel and look of books that also brings joy. Glossy pages or hardbacks – and carefully selected fonts; covers are often works of art. Painted or sprayed edges can add another layer of beauty that demand display on a book shelf. In fact, books are a multisensory experience that the Amazon Kindle, I’m afraid to say, just can’t replicate. However, due to the scourge of Amazon, bookshops are now becoming rarer and rarer. Luckily we have two wonderful bookshops nearby which I urge you to visit. Books have the ability to unleash your imagination and send you on fantastical journeys all from the comfort of your armchair... What a wonderful gift to give someone!

You’ll find one of Scotland’s oldest second-hand bookstores Abbey Secondhand Books at 21 Wellmeadow St, Paisley - near the University and Paisley Museum and Library. About 1km west of Paisley Gilmour Street Station

www.gingercatbookshop.co.uk

Abbey Secondhand Books www.abbeybookspaisley.co.uk

The store holds an enormous 40,000 books on a wide range of topics including: history, poetry and fiction as well as mind, art, music and drama. There is also children’s section and sheet music. Check out the Manager’s Choice section on their website to see a variety of wonderful 1st Editions that are also on sale for the serious book collector in your life.

The Ginger Cat Bookshop shares space with Triptych Studios on Main Street Bridge of Weir. Specialising in children’s books, it’s a treasure trove of wonderful titles for all ages. Owner Aileen has a wealth of knowledge and can advise you on her top picks. Often hosting special author events, and children’s workshops this place has become a hive of activity and a valuable addition to Bridge of Weir. Keep supporting your local bookshops!

The Ginger Cat

Hidden Histories... The Battlefield Monument,

The Battlefield district of Glasgow gets its name from the Battle of Langside in 1568 where Mary Queen of Scot’s army were routed by her half brother, the Regent Moray, James Stewart.

Next month is the anniversary of this battle. Although the fighting only lasted 45 minutes, over 300 were killed. This was Mary’s final defeat in Scotland.

Langside

The 58 foot monument in the picture was erected in on the fringes of Queen’s Park in 1887/88 to mark the battle’s 320th anniversary and also commemorated 300 years since Mary was put to death. It was designed by Alexander Skirving – who also designed the adjacent Langside Hill Church – now the ‘Church on the Hill’ pub – and gave his name to Skirving Street in Shawlands. The nearby Regent Moray Street was named by the ‘Incorporation of the Bakers of Glasgow’ who wanted to pay homage to the Regent after they were gifted a new mill on the River Kelvin as thanks for supplying fresh bread to the Regent’s troops before the battle. (The Earl of Moray remains a honourory member of the Bakers of Glasgow to this day!)

The lion on top of the pillar sitting with its paw on top of a cannon ball was sculpted by Glasgow artist James Young. Eagles sit on the corners of the monument and elaborate carvings of thistles, roses and fleurs-de-lis symbolise Mary’s time in Scotland, England and France.

Under the base of the sculpture is something of a time capsule. Planning documents, historical newspapers, coins of the day and a copy of Sir Walter Scott’s novel The Abbott (which features the battle) all lie buried beneath the foundations.

St Columba’s Announces Plans for School Development

St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm, has announced exciting plans to open a new Junior School on Gryffe Road in the village.

The proposed new Junior School, which is set to open its doors for August 2025, will feature state-of-the-art and dedicated facilities for the school’s youngest learners. Children will benefit from the finest teaching facilities in a bright and modern setting,

The plans involve relocating the existing Junior School department to converted classrooms within the Girdwood Building on Gryffe Road which was designed by award-winning architecture practice, Page Park.

Senior School pupils will benefit from investment in new classrooms in the main building which welcomed its first pupils in 1897. A new gymnasium will provide PE facilities at Duchal Road for all children. The school will retain the games hall facility at Knockbuckle Road and the Astro-turf on Gryffe Road.

The plans will include the sale of part of the site at Knockbuckle Road, including Shalott, the former home of the Birkmyre family. Shalott was acquired by the school in 1930 and its imposing position overlooking Birkmyre Park will remain a feature of the area. Development plans will be submitted to Inverclyde Council in coming months for a developable scheme sensitive to the surrounding neighbourhood.

The school has assured Junior School neighbours that development plans will be sensitive and shared with them at the earliest opportunity. Meanwhile, those living around Senior School have been informed that there will be no structural changes to the exterior of the Girdwood Building. The school is sensitive to the needs and wellbeing of locals and mindful of this, an environmental campaign will be launched to reduce traffic and parking around the school buildings.

Victoria Reilly, Rector of St Columba’s, said: “The school has evolved considerably over the years and this latest consolidation will future-proof the school for generations to come while maintaining one of Scotland’s top independent schools in Inverclyde – a community the school enjoys playing its role in serving.”

Farmers Markets

Saturday 6th Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm Community Centre 10am to 2pm

1st Saturday of the month

f /kilmacolmfarmersmarket

Saturday 13th & 27th

Paisley

The Paisley Centre 10am to 2pm

2nd & last Saturday of the month

f /pages/Paisley-FarmersMarket/207097172654332

Sunday 14th

Renfrew

Robertson Park 10am to 4pm

2nd Sunday of the month f /RenfrewMarket

Saturday 20th

Bishopton & Dargavel

Bishopton Train Station Car Park 10am to 2pm

3rd Saturday of the month

f /The-Bishopton-DargavelFarmers-Market109902924512969

Saturday 27th

Gourock

Gourock Train Station Car Park 10am to 2pm

Last Saturday of the month

f /The-Gourock-Farmers-Market112064558070104

Sat 27th & Sun 28th

Barnhill Farm

Houston Road, Inchinnan 10am to 4pm

Last Weekend of the month f /BarnhillAsparagus

Sunday 28th

Erskine Waterfront 10am to 4pm

Last Sunday of the month

f /Erskine-Riverside-Market101613198665127

UPCoMInG EvEnTS

in April

Wed 3rd - Every Wednesday throughout April

Nifty Knitters

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm | 2pm Meeting every Wednesday.

Thursday 4th

Old Kirk Kilmacolm OUTLOOK Team

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

The Ardgowan Singers, supporting Ardgowan Hospice. 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, which is 10 years old this year, 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.

Paisley & District u3a

Salvation Army, Mill Street, Paisley | 2pm to 3pm

Our next monthly meeting features Valerie Reilly with the history of chocolate – maybe with a few samples too!

Bridge of Weir SWI

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir | 7.30pm

This is the last one of the session. We will be holding our annual mini show and look forward to receiving a wide range of exhibits of various crafts and cooked items. Fiona Bretherton is also coming to give us advice on how to Move it or Lose it. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our evenings over the last session. We have had some excellent speakers.

Friday 5th until Saturday 28th September

Sma’ Shot Cottages

Sma Shots Lane, Paisley PA1 2HG

Come along and join us in our tea room, where we serve beverages and homemade goods and share stories of the past. We are open April-September, every Wednesday & Saturday Midday - 4pm and Fridays 1pm - 5pm.

Saturday 6th

Brookfield Bowling Club Opening Day

Brookfield Bowling Club (Village Hall), Woodside Road, Brookfield | 2pm

We would like to welcome any new members who will be made 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.

Tuesday 9th

Johnstone History Society

Masonic Hall, Collier Street, Johnstone | 7.30pm

How quickly the 23-24 session has passed as our April meeting will be our second to last, and our speaker will be Jeff Holmes his subject is “16 Incle Street”. This should prove to be very interesting as this location was where one of Paisleys most horrific crimes took place.

Our AGM was fairly well attended and our affairs all seem to be in good order. Following the business part of the meeting we had two very interesting films one about Houston Church and the other about Craigends House, these were shown to us by one of our own members who also volunteers at the Museum.

The Museum continues to open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am till 4pm. We stock a great many books maps and pamphlets. These can also be purchased online at johnstonehistory.org or and paid for via PayPal .

Wednesday 10th

Bridge of Weir Senior Citizens’ Association

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir | 7pm with the Bearsden Fiddlers. All welcome.

Houston & Crosslee SWI

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston | 7.30pm

After a very successful year, this will be our final meeting with our AGM and McMillan Charity Evening.

If you require further information please phone 01505 325452. You will be made very welcome.

We wish all our members and friends an enjoyable summer and look forward to welcoming them back to our first meeting in September.

Thursday 11th

Houston Hello

Houston and Killellan Kirk, West Halls, Main Street, Houston | 2pm to 4pm

Screen Memories - always popular as we reminisce about our favourite films and stars of the screen.

Solas Bereavement Drop In Group

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm | 2pm

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

If you run a

Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society Gardening Club

Freeland Church Hall, Main Street, Bridge of Weir | 8pm

Our ‘guests’ will be “Brighter Bridge of Weir” - a successful and much appreciated group of local volunteers. Their displays of blooms in planters, or once unkempt village corners, are eye-catching. To have transformed the village, a ribbon development, is quite an achievement and Neil Thomson, our speaker, will talk about their work and future plans. As always, visitors are welcome. For further information, contact Donald Hepburn (Chair), 01505 612898.

Saturday 13th

The Ginger Car Presents... An Evening with Andrew O’Hagan in conversation with CJ Cooke

Bernie’s Cafe Deli, Neva Pl, Bridge of Weir | 7pm

This amazingly talented author will be discussing his upcoming novel Caledonian Road. Over his writing career, Andrew has been nominated for 3 Booker Prizes and has won numerous awards including a Bafta. He is a novelist, essayist, playwright, and screenwriter. Last year his book Mayflies was adapted for television, winning a Bafta Scotland Award for Best Television Scripted.

Please join us for this amazing opportunity to listen to Andrew, ask him questions and also purchase Andrews books to have signed on the night. To book tickets for this event use the following link https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/835859637677?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tuesday 16th

Good Book Group

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm | 7.30pm

Several new members have joined over the last few months and there is always room for more. You will receive a warm welcome as well as some light refreshments.

Wednesday 17th

Community Coffee Morning

Howwood Parish Church Hall, Main Street, Howwood | 10am to 12noon

Everybody welcome for a tea/coffee and a good natter.

Kilmacolm and Quarriers Civic Trust AGM

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm | 6.30pm to 9pm

Starting with an illustrated talk by Robert Ferguson from Dalgarven Mill Museum“From corn to costume - a transformation”. Free admission, open to all residents of Kilmacolm and environs. Followed by refreshments 7.30pm - 7.45pm before the AGM begins. Watch out for the advertisements. www.kilmacolmcivictrust.org

Local Groups

Bridge of Weir

Senior Citizens’ Association

Cargill Hall, 7pm. All welcome.

For further details contact: Mabel McPherson on 01505 615836 or Agnes McKechan on 01505 612032, email agnes_mckechan@ hotmail.com.

SWI

Cargill Hall, Monthly on Thursdays, 7.30pm.

We welcome visitors as well and members each meeting.

Houston

West Halls, Main Street, Houston

Houston Hello

2pm to 4pm

For people living with dementia, their carers and anyone else who enjoys a cuppa and a chat. 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. All are welcome. Contact Frankie Greenwood for details: 07817 210777 E: familyandcommunity. houstonkirk@gmail.com

Men’s Shed, 10am to 1pm

Come along and learn new skills, or improve old ones, and enjoy the camaraderie of our friendly group. Every Wednesday. For more details please contact: mensshed. houstonkirk@gmail.com

Toddler Group

9.30am to 11.30am

Thursdays during term-time - New prices £3 per child and £1 for each additional child, includes a snack. For more details please contact: houstontoddlers@hotmail.com

The Wee Blether

10.30am to 11.30am

Join us for a cuppa and a catch-up every Tuesday. All are welcome.

Foodbank Donations

10am to 12noon & 7pm to 8pm

Donations welcome every Tuesday.

Kirk Guild, 2pm

1st and 3rd Tuesday monthly. For more details please contact: w.dunlop@yahoo.com

Wednesday 17th

May ‘24 issue Deadline!

Please send your submissions or advertising queries to: k info@advertizer.co.uk by the end of the day to guarantee inclusion!

Thursday 18th

Old Kirk Kilmacolm OUTLOOK Team

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm | 2pm to 3.30pm Mission Aviation Fellowship Charity. Bringing help, hope and healing to isolated people in need. A delicious afternoon tea is provided by the volunteer team. Meetings traditionally enjoy a guest speaker, or videos, quiz, tombola, easy keep fit.

Friday 19th

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival - The D’ e ldorados

McKillop Hall, Main St, Lochwinnoch | 7pm show 7.30pm Country & Western, Rockabilly, Rhythm & Blues, Licenced Bar Tickets available from www.lochwinnoch arts festival. co.uk or the “Wee Shop” in Church Street. £12

My Darling Clementine Film Night

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir | 7pm (Certificate U) - a digitally remastered version of the original 1946 film. Starring Henry Fonda, Victor Mature and Walter Brennan. Directed by John Ford. Everyone is welcome and there is no charge, although donations are welcome.

Saturday 20th

‘POSITIVI-T e A’ Charity Fundraiser for the Princess Warrior

Houston & Killellan Kirk, West Halls, Main Street, Houston 10.30am to 12.30pm

Please join us and share a cup of ‘POSITIVI-TEA’ with us whilst raising some much-needed funds for Tree of Hope. The morning will be full of fun with live music, home baking, tombola, a fantastic raffle, bouncy castle and soft play, pocket money toys and books for sale, meet the lambs, and much more! The 2nd Bridge of Weir Guides group have very kindly offered to help us to host the event and for that we are most grateful.

https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Grace-Louise-Darroch

Fun Quiz Night

St Machar’s Church, Kilbarchan Rd, Bridge of Weir | 7pm

All welcome - teams, individuals or families. Juice and nibbles provided, BYOB if you wish. Tickets £5 available from Morven 07887 771522.

Sunday 21st

Choir Sunday

Houston & Killellan Kirk, 13A Kirk Road, PA6 7HW | 11am

Our Choir will lead Morning Worship with anthems, hymns and music in a special service. All welcome.

Brookfield Art Club Annual Show & Sale

Brookfield Village Hall, Woodside Road | 12noon to 4.30pm

Admission £1, Afternoon Tea £3. All welcome.

Quarriers Ladies Lunch

Grand Central Hotel, 99 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3SF

Start with a glass of fizz on arrival and a fabulous array of luxury shopping stalls. Then enjoy a delicious lunch, followed by entertainment from the one and only Barbara Bryceland. You can also try your luck at our glitzy prize draws ... you might walk away with a stunning prize! Best of all, you know that this isn’t just an ordinary day out. It’s genuinely changing lives, because every penny raised goes to support Quarriers’ vital work across Scotland. Tickets: www.quarriers.org. uk/event/ladies-lunch

Guided Wildlife Walk

RSPB, Largs Rd, Lochwinnoch | 10.15am to 12.15pm

Explore the wonderful wetlands at RSPB Lochwinnoch! The experienced guide will take you around the reserve and point out the interesting wildlife to be found! Call 01505 842663. Cost: £5.75 - £13.25

Monday 22nd

Kilmacolm Annual Plant Sale

Kilmacolm Community Centre, Lochwinnoch Rd, Kilmacolm | 10am to 12noon

Come along to Kilmacolm for the annual Spring Plant Sale in aid of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme! Donation

Tuesday 23rd

Dementia Friendly Lochwinnoch Update

The Three Churches, 5 Church St, Lochwinnoch PA12 4AD 1.30pm

If you would like to know more about Dementia, we are hosting this meeting with Caroline Irvine, Alzheimer’s Scotland Dementia Advisor, Renfrewshire. This update will help us be better at understanding and helping people deal with this increasingly prevalent condition. In addition, it is not just older people who get dementia!! If you would like to come contact or message Morag on 07868 752814.

Diamond Jubilee Celebratory Concert

Sunday 5th May from 4pm, Paisley Town Hall

Comprised of musicians from all around Renfrewshire and beyond, the Sinfonia has been the only amateur orchestra in the area for 60 years and is still going strong. Under the baton of Nicholas Wilks, the concert will feature works by Verdi, Bizet and Tchaikovsky. Tickets (£12) available on the door or contact: secretary@paisleysinfonia.org.uk

It’s all GO at the New Wrights Home Hardware Bridge of Weir Site!

We’re entering our 3rd month renovating the new premises at Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir, and we couldn’t be more excited to share our progress.

We have had a lot of work on our hands due to the building not previously being classed for retail. However, these hurdles are gradually being crossed and changes are beginning to take shape within the premises. Here is our summary so far:

•

January saw the site strip out and preparation begin

• order materials for the site

In February Planning permission was agreed, allowing us to

Arkleston Singers Concert

Howard Goodall’s Eternal Lighta Requiem

on Friday 17th May at 7.30pm with Arkleston Chamber Ensemble and music by Debbie Wiseman, George Gershwin, Irving Berin & Carly Simon

Soprano soloist: Catriona Hewitson

Tenor/Baritone soloist: Andrew McTaggart

Paisley South Church, 13 Rowan Street, Paisley PA2 6RZ

Tickets £12, available from members, by phone: 07867 980914; online from WeGotTickets.com or at the door.

The Arkleston Singers Registered Charity No. SC032807

Now into March, floors have been levelled & screeded, walls

• insulated, partitions built and slatwall installed Displayers are now starting on site to work with products

• ordered from our Warehouse at Home Hardware Scotland, Ltd.

In Ardrossan to fill the new store

Thanks go to our hardworking staff and to our wonderful team of trades people and specialists without whom this project would never have been ready at such speed: Central Timber Construction (Helensburgh); Some Like it Hot (Ayr); Phoenix Electrical (Newton Stewart); Alyn Walsh Architects (Glasgow); Neil McColm Structural Engineers (Prestwick), Helensburgh Floorplan; Rok Fire & Security (Glasgow) and more! We will keep you posted on all events as they transpire via our Facebook pages.

Local Groups

Scottish Country Dancing

2pm to 4pm

West Halls, Main St, Houston

Every Thursday. All welcome – no experience necessary.

SWI 7.30pm

Carrick Centre, Main Street

Please come and join us and be part of a nationwide group of women all with the same vision. You will be made very welcome. We meet on the second Wednesday of the month. If you require further information, please phone 01505 325452.

Book Club 7.30pm - 9pm

Killellan Halls, 13A Kirk Road.

Last Wednesday of the month. All welcome. For more details please contact: smck.kilallan13@hotmail. co.uk.

Kilbarchan

National Women’s Register

For further info call 703786 and visit the website: www.nwr.org.uk

‘Cuppa at the Kirk’

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, every Tuesday, 2pm - 3.30pm

Open to everyone to come along for a friendly chat and a cuppa.

A warm welcome is extended to all.

Lochwinnoch

Save a Life Scotland

Masonic Lodge, Main Street

Covering resuscitation and using a AED. To book a place call Morag on 07868 752814.

SWI

McKillop Hall, 7.30pm

New members and visitors most welcome.

Dementia Friendly Lochwinnoch

The group aims to reach people with Dementia, their carers or family. In addition, provide social interaction and support for older members of our community. More information contact 07868 752814.

Transport can be organised from home if required to events.

Wednesday 24th

Houston & Killellan Kirk Book Club

Killellan Halls, 13A Kirk Road, PA6 7HW | 7.30pm to 9pm

All welcome.

Bridge of Weir Senior Citizens’ Association

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Crescent, Bridge of Weir | 7pm

With the National Health Choir. All welcome.

Wed 24th - Sat 27th

Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group Spring Show - “The Wedding Singer”

Johnstone Town Hall, Johnstone | 7.30pm

Incl Saturday matinee@ 2pm

Join us for an unforgettable journey back to the 1980’s with Johnstone Phoenix Theatre Group’s latest production. Get ready as we see the hilarious antics of Robbie, Sammy and George - a trio of wedding singers with a knack for mischief. But when Robbie’s own love life takes a hit, the stage is set for a whirlwind of romance, laughter, and catchy tunes. Follow Robbie’s journey as he navigates the highs and lows of love, from his failed relationship with ex-fiancée Linda to his blossoming romance with the charming Julia. Along the way, you’ll meet a colourful cast of characters who will have you laughing out loud and tapping your toes. “The Wedding Singer” promises non-stop entertainment and feel-good vibes that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. Tickets: linktr.ee/johnstonephoenix Who doesn’t love a wedding so come join us! See you at the show.

Thursday 25th

Houston Hello

Houston & Killellan Kirk, West Halls, Main Street, Houston 2pm to 4pm

Singing for Wellbeing with Daniela

Renfrewshire’s First Menopause Cafe

The Farm at No. 12, Brownsfield Holding, Barnsford Rd, Inchinnan, Renfrew PA4 9LZ | 6.30pm to 8.30pm

We’re back!!! Drink, eat and discuss - the menopause Cafe will be open to purchase drinks and cakes. Scan our qr code for your free ticket

Monthly Ceilidhs - Paisley Highlanders Association

Saturday 13th April, 7.30pm (Doors 7.15pm)

Take part in all your favourite dances ... Gay Gordons, Dashing White Sergeant, Strip the Willow, St. Bernard’s Waltz and many more! Admission £6.

Elderslie Village Hall, Stoddart Square, Elderslie PA5 9AS

Tel: 07710 162087

Thursday 25th - Saturday 27th

Kilmacolm Dramatic Society’s Murdered To Death

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm | 7.30pm

The hilarious spoof thriller by Peter Gordon. Tickets available now through our website www. kilmacolmdramaticsociety.co.uk Will Inspector Pratt aided by Constable Thompkins be able to solve the murder? Could it be Colonel Craddock, or mysterious French art dealer, Pierre Marceau? There is also the rather strange Butler and the beautiful Elizabeth HartleyTrumpington. Perhaps the local sleuth Miss Maple has an inkling? For more information please contact our secretary Mandy Robinson on 07719 309960.

Friday 26th

Dementia Friendly Lochwinnoch Trip

Cardwell Garden Centre, Lunderston Bay, Gourock PA19 1BB Coach Trip and Afternoon Tea. Contact Lynn on 07758 370066 for details. £10.

Friday 26th - Saturday 27th

Paisley Food & Drink Festival

Paisley Abbey Close and Bridge Street, Paisley

Friday - 4pm – 10pm and Saturday 12noon – 9pm.

Join us for this free two-day outdoor taste extravaganza.

Friday 26th until Saturday 11th May

ACCORD Hospice Annual Art e xhibition

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

ACCORD Hospice’s Free Annual Art Exhibition returnsbigger and better than ever before - bringing together the best local and national artists to celebrate all forms of art and creativity!

Saturday 27th

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme - Spring Plant Sale

Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm | 10am to 12noon

Why not pop along and buy some beautiful plants? Donations in aid of Pancreatic Cancer Action and SGS charities please.

Kilbarchan Smile Litter Pick

ewing Street Car Park Area, Kilbarchan | 2pm

Kilbarchan Smile and Kilbarchan Parish Church Eco Group are joining forces for a Litter Pick. Refreshments will be available in the church hall in Steeple Square after.

Lochwinnoch Community Garden Open Day

Lochwinnoch Community Garden (behind Parish Church), 21 Church Street, Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire PA12 4AD 12.30pm to 4.30pm

Drop into see what’s going on! Talks Lisa Davis from Shrubs to Suds - Gardeners Question Time 12.30pm -1.30pm Liz Parsons from Starling Learning - Family Chat A Wild Flower Meadow in Your Garden 2pm - 3pm Also: Plant sale, Shrubs to Suds, Face painting, Refreshments and Music from Crawford. Free entry

Bridge of Weir Choral Society Spring Concert “haydn’s Creation”

Sherbrooke Mosspark Parish Church, 240 Nithsdale Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G41 5AD | 7pm

(Jointly with Strathaven Choral Society). Tickets: £15 adult, £8 student, under 16s free if accompanied by paying adult. Available from any choir member or from www. wegottickets.com (use the search term “Sherbrooke”)

Film Matinee - South Pacific

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston | 2pm to 4.30pm

Film Matinee for the over 65’s in Houston/Crosslee. Free Entry including a tea/coffee during the interval supported by the Cafe At The Carrick (any small donations appreciated).

Top P icks

A fabulous, diverse mix of events. Many are ‘pay what you can’. Here are a few highlights.

Scandal Awaits with Sara Sheridan and Lesley MacDowell - Friday 26th April

2.30 pm – 3.30 pm, Main Hall – Paisley Town Hall - Tickets £12 / £10 conc

Sara Sheridan is author of more than 20 novels including her recent reimagining of Enlightenment Edinburgh, The Fair Botanists. Its hotly anticipated follow up, The Secrets of Blythswood Square, turns its attention to 19th Century Glasgow, and the scandalous secrets held in the city’s notorious neighbourhood. Glasgow-based author Lesley MacDowell’s latest release, Clairmont, recasts the famous literary friendship between Lord Byron and the Shelleys from the perspective of Mary’s 18-year-old step-sister.

Family Day – 27th April – Free but ticketed - from 10am - 1pm at Paisley Town Hall

Enjoy a Puppet Making Workshop where you get to create your favourite fictional characters and engage in imaginative role play. At Paisley Central Library from 12noon – 1pm join The Magic of Storytelling with Ross Mackay which allows youngsters to create their own magic show and perform it around a fairytale. At 2.30pm - 3.30pm at Central Library meet Kevin The Orange. This laugh out loud picture book follows Kevin the Orange, who is really tired of being orange. Orange you glad I told you all about this treasure-trove of fun to do with your wee ones!

The Beautiful Game – Various dates

A whole host of events merging the worlds of football and literature involving those who’ve played and managed the game, as well as those who’ve stood on the sidelines and been inspired by it.

Poets In Paisley Present an Evening with Nutmeg: Thursday 25th April.

5pm – 6.30 pm, Main Hall – Paisley Town Hall Tickets – Pay What You Can, £3 / £5 / £8 / £10 Editor of Scottish football’s finest print magazine, Daniel Gray interviews the legendary Rose Reilly and crime novelist and founder of the Scotland Crime Writers’ football team, Craig Robertson.

The Beautiful Game – Pat Neven: Friday 26th April.

7.30pm – 8.30pm, Main Hall – Paisley Town Hall. Tickets £12 / £10 conc. Scottish footballer and author of The Accidental Footballer, Pat Nevin, recounts his turbulent tenure as both player and Chief Executive of Scottish First Division side Motherwell in an eye-opening and moving account of running a professional football club.

Bards, Bans & Ballers: The Tall Tales of Women’s Football in Scotland: Friday 26th April 1.15pm – 2.15pm, Jacquard – Paisley Town Hall. Tickets – Pay What You Can, £3 / £5 / £8 / £10. .2024 marks the anniversary of the lifting of the controversial ‘ban’ on women’s football in Scotland. Three football enthusiasts – poet Julie McNeill and sport historians Prof Fiona Skillen and Dr Karen Fraser – have teamed up to mark this important milestone bringing together the forgotten history, legacy and voices of Scottish Women’s Football. For more info go to: https://paisleybookfest.com/

Kilmacolm

Kidston Hall, High Street

Solas, 2pm

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, 2pm to 3.30pm

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 1st and 3rd Thursdays monthly from 2 to 3.30pm. A delicious afternoon tea is provided by the volunteer team. Meetings traditionally enjoy a guest speaker, videos, quiz, tombola, easy keep fit.

Good Book Club, 7.30pm

Everyone welcome.

Nifty Knitters, 2pm Group meets every Wednesday in the Lounge.

Foodbank Donations

Kilmacolm Old Kirk

Twice weekly. Donations at Sunday services, or through any of the leaders who run church activities in the Kidston Hall.

If you would like your local group included here please send the details and contact information to: k info@advertizer.co.uk

Renfrewshire Inter-Club Camera CompetitionPaisley Colour Photography

On Thursday 22nd February, Greenock Camera Club hosted the annual Renfrewshire Inter Club Camera Competition, which was judged by Libby Smith of the Scottish Photographic Federation. The competition is always an eagerly anticipated and hotly contested between the participating clubs, which this year, in addition to the host club (Greenock), comprised Eastwood Photographic Society, Gryffe Camera Club, Paisley Colour Photographic Club and Paisley Photographic Society.

Each of the participating clubs is required to submit 12 photographs, with a maximum of 2 per author. Photographs are scored up to a maximum of 20 points.

I am delighted to confirm that this year’s winner was my own club, Paisley Colour Photographic Club, which was ahead of Eastwood Photographic Society by a narrow 3 points. That was enough, however, to see PCPC retain the trophy from its previous win in 2023. Coming in third was Paisley Photographic Society, with Greenock and Gryffe Camera Clubs bringing up the rear.

Two of PCPC’s photographs scored the maximum 20 points: “Swinging” by myself and “Waves Eilean Sionnach” by Club President, Eddie Middleton.

Christian Aid Week 12th -

18th May

We will be delivering donation envelopes throughout Kilbarchan and Brookfield during Christian Aid Week and ask that you return your donations to collection points in Kilbarchan and Brookfield at the end of the week. It will also be possible to donate electronically via a JustGiving page on the church website www. kilbarchankirk.org

In addition to fundraising via the donation envelopes, other ways to support this year’s appeal include “70k in May”. Individuals or groups are encouraged to seek sponsorship from friends, family or neighbours to walk, run, cycle or sail 70 kilometres during May. Why not get the family together to take short walks, reaching the 70k target together?

By donating, you can help to support Christian Aid’s work in some of the poorest communities in the world. It is now a regular occurrence for us to see or hear news reports highlighting the impact of natural disasters and of climate change and these, so often, affect those areas least able to cope.

Kilbarchan and Brookfield have been very generous supporters of Christian Aid Week in the past, raising £3,460 last year (over £4,200 including Gift Aid recoverable). We are very aware of the pressures on every household’s budget at this time, but hope that our community will again respond by contributing whatever they can afford.

As always, the success of Christian Aid week depends not only on your donations, but on a team of volunteers who distribute donation envelopes around the villages. If you are able to help with this, or want to know more about this year’s events, please contact Alasdair on 07805 918509.

illage News

Next Deadline...

#347 May 2024: 17th April ‘24

Ward 11 ... Cllr James Maclaren

The proposed closure of a number of police stations in the area is concerning. As I sit on the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, I have requested that we consider the consequences. The other subject I have put forward for discussion is the street lighting. This is not so much about missing street lights although that in itself requires a review, my request is more about how much light comes from the LED lamps as opposed to the old sodium lighting. I find that our streets and pavements are not as bright as they used to be with many streets having dark areas. This is not helpful when so many pavements are in a poor condition with multiple trip hazards. So much for replacing cut down lampposts urgently, the plan is now to get the whole backlog complete in the lighter months, ready for the short nights returning in Autumn.

Council is currently holding a consultation on the proposed location for a new primary school in Dargavel. I can’t help feeling that the proposed site is short sighted as it is too close to the existing school. Traffic is bad enough outside schools at drop-off and pick-up times without doubling up on this. Far better to choose a site further away on the west side of the village. I hope that plenty of residents have made this point. Winter weather is never kind to our road systems and this point is evident when you look at the A761 BoW to Brookfield road. Recent car accidents only go to highlight an existing problem. Potholes and surface water abound. I will continue to push for improvements.

A 3 year-long villages traffic calming project is likely to start in April 2024 and will look at all entrances to the villages. Engagement with the local residents and petitioners is currently programmed for Autumn 2024. The intention is to procure a consultant in 24/25 to undertake detailed consultation with the Community Council and draft designs in year 1. Detailed designs and further consultation/agreement in year 2 and procurement of a contractor and construction in year 3.

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

q 0300 300 1291 f /councillormaclaren k cllr.james.maclaren@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Councillor Details

WARD 9:

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

Cllr Chris Gilmour: cllr.chris.gilmour@renfrewshire.gov.uk

0300 300 1289 | 07484 064521

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

0300 300 1268

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

07534 148 224

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

0300 300 1431

WARD 10:

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

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

07768 130 935

Cllr Alison 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

brookfield village hall

Karate: adults & children welcome (7+ yrs)

q 07850 407442

f Johnstone tora-Kai Karate

Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Zumba®:

k gems_paisley@hotmail.com

tuesday 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Ballroom/Latin: New members

welcome. Private lessons available.

q Stewart 07710 464 969

k ballroombasics@live.co.uk

thursday 7pm - 8pm (Beginners)

thursday 8pm - 9pm (intermediate)

Saturday 11am - 12.30pm (Mixed ability)

Sunday 11am - 12.30pm (Mixed ability)

Yogabellies: Suitable for all levels of experience!

k yogabellieslyndsey@outlook.com

Please note - new class timetable:

Wednesday 6.15pm - 7.15pm (for Pregnancy)

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

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

The Ballet & dance Academy:

k suzanne@balletanddanceacademy.co.uk

Friday 4.15pm - 5.30pm (P3 - P5) 5pm - 6.30pm (P6 - S2)

Saturday 9am - 9.45am (pre school) 9.50am - 10.50am (P1 - P2)

DDP Yoga: Full body workout to improve flexibility, strength, balance & cardio fitness. q laura 07474 443505

k energisewithlaura@gmail.com

Monday 6.15pm - 7.15pm

Councillor Surgeries: (library)

audrey Doig - thursday 11th 7pm-7.30pm

Robert innes - tuesday 16th 6pm - 6.30pm

alison ann-Dowling - Friday 19th 10.30 - 11.30am

BROOKFIELD ART CLUB ANNUAL SHOW & SALE

Sunday 21st april from 12 noon - 4.30pm admission £1, afternoon tea £3 k brookfieldvillage.org f brookfieldvpa@gmail.com t @BrookfieldVPa

Ward 11 ... Cllr Fiona Airlie-Nicolson

I am delighted that the Council has agreed the budget and in a wide range of measures the administration has frozen council tax. This assists hard pressed families to manage budgets all that bit easier. Also committed £5million in our roads, £4million for the construction of a new Primary School in Johnstone, £130,000 to top up investment in community halls and £70k for our successful Retail Improvement Fund to support local businesses.

We launched the next phase of our play park upgrades with an additional £750,000 which has been welcomed by communities across Renfrewshire. Station Road in Langbank is in this year’s programme. The importance of outdoor play can’t be understated so it’s fantastic to see our play park upgrades starting to make a real difference in our local communities.

The Big Spring Clean is back again, running throughout March and April. It’s making a huge difference to our local environment. I thank everyone who take part. The Council can provide equipment, support, and collect the rubbish at the end of the pick so visit the council website for more information or join the more than 5000-strong community of volunteers on Facebook.

Langbank, Bridge of Weir, Bishopton and Dargavel is a large area, and my mailbag can be very varied. I attend various community councils and Tenants and Residents meeting to hear what matters to them and to engage in the latest discussions about any issues they have.

One issue is the proposal to close the Bank of Scotland branch in Bridge of Weir. Increasingly these closures are isolating certain members of our communities, particularly those not able to access internet banking. The UK Government which regulates banking services have allowed banks a free hand on how they treat local communities, they should stand up for local communities when these decisions are being made and protect our most vulnerable.

q 0300 300 1253 k cllr.fiona.airlie-nicolson@renfrewshire.gov.uk

The Bridge

63 Main Street Bridge of Weir

(Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 10am - 1pm and Mon 2pm - 5pm) www.thebridgbridgeofweir.com

NEW! BABY CHANGING – we now have a baby changing table for the use of the community. The desk volunteers will show you where it is located.

Café - Rest your feet in our warm space! Our café is open for reasonably priced hot drinks and biscuits.

Photocopier - The Bridge has a photocopier for the public to use - a very reasonable 10p per copy.

Hearing Aid Advice - The hearing aid “clinic” at The Bridge is held on the last Friday of the month from 11am – 12.45pm for minor servicing of hearing aids. You can also collect new batteries at any time on production of the NHS yellow booklet.

MP / MSP Surgeries - Gavin Newlands MP and Natalie Don MSP hold their surgeries at The Bridge. Mr Newlands surgery is 10am - 11am on the last Friday of the month. Ms Dons surgery is 11.30am12.15pm on the first Friday of the month.

Film for April - Everyone is welcome and there is no charge, although donations are welcome. Friday 19th April at 7pm – My Darling Clementine U – a digitally remastered version of the original 1946 film. Starring Henry Fonda, Victor Mature and Walter Brennan. Directed by John Ford.

Pre-Loved Books/DVDs - Come and browse our selection of pre-loved books for sale at a reasonable 50p per paperback, £1 per hardback. There are also childrens books. Also a number of CDs and DVDs at 50p each. We are happy to receive donations of books/CDs/DVDs if you are having a clear out.

The Shop - throughout the year we are continually reviewing our stock of cards and introducing new designs to ensure our extensive selection of greetings cards is maintained. We stock cards for all main events in the year.

The Bridge is the go-to place to buy your essential stationery items, postcards of your local area and pocket money toys.

H.O.S.T.

The Carrick Centre, Houston

Centre : q 01505 229597

Coffee shoP:

(Monday - sunday 10am - 4pm) q 07794 923 068

Gryffe Manor out of sChool: (Monday - friday) q 01505 615438

Monday

Weekly

art Mindfulness Kids 10am (1st)

art Mindfulness Kids 4pm (15th, 22nd & 29th)

Handiwives 7.30pm (15th)

Diaporama 7.30pm (8th)

tuesday

yoga 7pm

art Mindfulness Kids 10am (2nd)

Wednesday

art Mindfulness Kids 10am (3rd)

Community Council 7.30pm (17th)

Camera Club 7.30pm

Moo Music 9.45am (no class on 10th)

Cllr audrey Doig 7pm (17th)

Womens institute 7.30pm (10th)

thursday

art Mindfulness Kids 10am (4th)

Gryffe Quilting Group 10am (11th, 25th)

Folk Club 8pm

Move it Or lose it 10.30am

Crafty Friends 7.30pm (4th, 18th)

friday

Natalie Don MSP Surgery 12.30pm (5th)

Gavin Newlands MP Surgery 12.30pm (12th)

Cllr Surgery allison Dowling 11.15am (19th)

yoga 10.30am (19th & 26th)

Mr & Mrs McGhee 9am

saturday

DWl MH/R2 9.30am

Community Council 12:10pm (27th)

Cllr Surgery Robert innes 11am (20th)

sunday

Baptist Church 11am and 6pm

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

BookinG enquiries:

q stewart scally on 07473 696869, Gordon or Gary on 01505 674277 k thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

Houston & Killellan Kirk

The run up to Easter is always a busy time in our Church year and we are looking forward to Holy Week, when we have evening services on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

Houston Hello

We have been enjoying our usual sessions of music, dancing and singing as well as the delicious home-baking provided by our lovely team of volunteers.

The brilliant Elderberries Ceilidh Band joined us for a wonderful afternoon of music and dancing last month and we are looking forward to welcoming some of the children from Houston Nursery on March 28th, for fun games and a blether.

Screen Memories is on April 11th and is always popular as we reminisce about our favourite films and stars of the screen, and we have Singing for Wellbeing with Daniela on April 25th.

There are lots of other fabulous activities planned for the next few months and all are welcome, as ever!

We meet from 2pm-4pm at the Church Halls on Main Street in Houston (next door to the Carrick Centre).

On Easter Sunday we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus with an outdoor service and Holy Communion in the Kirk grounds at 8am, followed by our usual coffee and bacon rolls, and then a service of celebration in the Kirk at 11am. There will be a Retiral Offering in aid of our chosen charities.

The Shedders have been busy making Easter Bunnies for our homes and doorsteps. These lovely wee rabbits are a wonderful addition to any home and cost just £10. Every single penny raised goes straight back into the Men’s Shed, so it’s money well spent.

Our Foodbank Collection Point sent more than 30 crates of essential items to Renfrewshire Foodbank in just one week last month – after donations were boosted by the success of Bee Happy’s ‘Doorstep Donations’. What a fantastic result!

We are also very grateful to everyone who generously donated Easter eggs for Barnardo’s Threads, a Paisley-based charity working with families across Renfrewshire.

Well done to the P7 pupils from Houston Primary School who made a whopping 360 chocolate stirrers for their Fairtrade Chocolicious Coffee Morning, raising a grand total of £513.07 for Fairtrade. Lots of toothbrushing required afterwards!

Be sure to Save the Date for our Olympics themed Carnival on May 11th and look out for our lovely team of Carnival Programme sellers who will be hitting the streets of Houston and surrounding areas from mid-April.

Please contact Frankie on 07817 210777 for more information or email familyandcommunity. houstonkirk@gmail.com.

Our Lucky Prize programme has a suggested donation of just £3 and includes entry into a string of brilliant prize draws. Every penny raised at Carnival helps support groups and activities that are open to everyone.

Gryffe Valley Rotary

Recent Activities

Narek Bido, the District Governor joined our meeting on 6th March, along with guests from Paisley and Paisley Callants Rotary Clubs. He was very complimentary about the three clubs, mentioning their social, community and international projects. He urged everyone to seek more involvement with our local communities as part of encouraging more, younger people to become Rotarians.

Speakers

The club continues to attract good speakers on a wide range of topics to its dinner meetings at the Fox and Hounds on

Wednesday evenings:

In March: 20th - ‘Largs seafront historical story boards’ – Colin Golightly, 27th - ‘The workings of Recovery Across Mental Health (RAMH) – Peter Yunge

April Meetings: 3rd - ‘Railway Signalling’ – Bob McNair, 10thBusiness meeting, 17th - ‘Maid of the Loch restoration project’Anne Urquhart, 24th - ‘Search and Rescue Dog Association’

These meetings are open by arrangement to people who are interested in Rotary or interested in the subject.

You will be given a warm welcome. Please phone 07808707633 or email gryffevalletrotary@gmail.com to book in for a nice meal and evening.

Houston and Killellan

Agricultural Society Show

Saturday 1st June

Houston playing fields

Schedules for the Craft and Baking will be available shortly.

Please contact Isabelle Stuart 07508 905298 or issistuart@gmail.com

The ever popular Tractor run will take place on Friday 24th May.

Ward 10 ...

Cllr Robert Innes

Renfrewshire Council has passed its budget for the year and with residents feeling the impact of the cost of living crisis, I feel it is a budget that recognises the struggle people are going through. We have agreed a Council tax freeze, further investment in our Fairer Renfrewshire programme and more investment into our roads infrastructure and into our play parks. It really has been heartening to see the improvements in our play parks in recent years in both Houston and Brookfield and that investment will continue. I am especially looking forward to the opening of the newly refurbished ‘Helicopter Park’ in Houston, I know that the Houston Play Park Improvement Group have done immense work in highlighting this park as needing an upgrade and done fabulous fundraising to make this a reality. Along with Renfrewshire Council’s #YouDecide campaign that brings improvements to the accessibility of helicopter park, it is shaping up to be a good summer for local kids in the parks in Houston.

I regularly take part in walkabouts around Houston, Crosslee and Brookfield not just to take in our beautiful villages but to pick up any issues that I see on my travels and report these to the council. If you ever have an issue that you feel I could be of assistance with please never hesitate to get in touch.

q 0300 300 1253 k cllr.robert.innes@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Ward 10 ...

Cllr Audrey Doig

The last full council meeting in February saw Renfrewshire Council pass its annual budget for 2024/25 with much passionate debate on all sides. I, of course, supported the Administration’s budget as it was a better budget for villages like Houston, Brookfield, and Crosslee, and it passed by 23 votes to 17.

Key elements of the administration’s budget saw more money put into the Council’s Retail Improvement Scheme, which gives independent traders up to 75% of the cost of renovating their shopfronts premises. It is independent entrepreneurs that make our villages and communities the distinctive places that they are, and giving them a helping hand also helps to retain local jobs. There was also money in the Administration Budget for a new dedicated Planning Enforcement Officer. This is badly needed as there have been possible breaches of planning consent taking place right across rural Renfrewshire, and we need to enforce the planning laws more vigorously.

One particular element of the Administration’s budget which I felt was particularly positive was a commitment to further fund the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. This means that children between the ages of 2 to 5 get a free book every month to drive forward core literacy skills regardless of family income. Reading to children at a young age, as I did to my son, is proven to massively increase life chances and academic achievement.

q 07768 130935 k cllr.audrey.doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Get Creative with Arches!

Kilbarchan Lilias Day

Saturday 1st June

Each year we ask Kilbarchan residents to get creative to help celebrate Lilias Day. This year the theme is flower arches, reviving a centuries old tradition where streets in Kilbarchan would down tools and build magnificent flower arches, competing for the prize of best arch. Whilst we don’t expect people to create such engineering feats we’re keen to see what you can do to pay homage to such a unique and wonderful tradition.

Lilias Day Kids Art Competition - Design an Arch

We’re sticking with the theme for our annual Lilias Day art competition and asking kids to get creative with Arches. Draw, design, build, craft, junk model or photograph your arch. You can use any medium you like. Open to children aged 3-12. Submit your entry including name, address and date of birth to Kilbarchan Primary School or Old Library Centre, or email entries to: info@liliasday.co.uk Deadline for submission is Friday 17th May. Winners will be announced at Lilias Day.

Spring time turns our attention to pressure washing and softwashing ready for the Summer ahead. With over 30 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

Photo from 1934

Howwood Parish Church

Our Easter services were well attended with us visiting St Pauls and St Pauls visiting us. The early Sunday Service was excellent (along with the rolls on sausage)

Our Guild Daffodil Tea on 18th March was a huge success. Over 50 people attended and all had a wonderful time. Big thanks to the organisers.

Our Sunday service will be as usual at 10am each Sunday. Please come along and join us in our celebrations.

Community Coffee Morning will be in the Church Hall on Wednesday 17th April from 10am till 12noon. Everybody welcome for a tea/coffee and a good natter. All welcome.

Howwood Community Council Activities

Readers will know that Community Councils support both towns and villages. Members are local residents who volunteer their free time to find ways to improve where they live. You may be curious about what they are doing in Howwood.

One regular CC activity is the monthly meeting. In Howwood these take place in the Village Hall every second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm (except for July and August) Local Councillors and Community Police officers attend to share information, updates and take questions. This helps us understand how local government and other key stakeholders manage their portfolios and priorities.

Both Treasurer and Secretary have standing agenda slots to discuss correspondences received via email and Facebook (which is generating more followers) and any local planning updates

In April 2023, we introduced an Action Plan Tracker to log tasks, allocate lead responsibilities/ support, agree timescales and record progress. It encourages discussions and ensures closer working to reach satisfactory conclusions. New locally identified issues if appropriate, are added to the Tracker. A ‘Cleared Actions’ summary informs the Chair’s end of the year report for Renfrewshire Council. There are compromises made, occasional delays and disappointments of course, but we aim to keep villagers regularly informed of both and enjoy a good relationship with them.

Currently activities include: • Village Notice board Refurbishments • Repairs to the Village Hall and kitchen (The HCC passionately believes the Hall is the heart of the village)

• Ways to simplify, advertise and encourage Village Hall bookings • The Hartfield Moss Memorial Repair • Talks about developing safe access to National Cycle Route 7 from the village • Chasing repairs to local road surfaces • Our Annual Village Litter Pick Up • Production and hand delivery of our HCC Community Newsletter.

Why not follow us on Facebook (search for Howwood Community Council).

Ward 9 ...

Cllr Andy Doig

The last full council meeting in February saw Renfrewshire Council pass its annual budget for 2024/25 with much passionate debate on all sides. On balance I supported the Administration’s budget as it was a better budget for villages like Howwood, Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch, and it passed by 23 votes to 17.

I have to say that this is because I lobbied hard to get specific investment for the villages in the Administration budget. For example, I want to see the continued renovation of the kitchen at Howwood Village Hall, which has recently had new worktops installed, with an eye to a full upgrade of the Hall once the Council’s property review is concluded later this year. Furthermore, I negotiated new safety signage at the junction at the top of the Linester where it meets Bowfield Road, outside the Country Club. This has been a safety blackspot for many years.

In relation to Kilbarchan I have tasked senior officers to examine the viability of bringing back Parkview Lane into use for parking. For Lochwinnoch, the money has been sourced to upgrade the acoustics at the McKillop Institute, which was an omission when it was renovated, and in addition money was also sourced to fund signage at key entry points to the village which the Lochwinnoch Business Network are looking for to retain increase and footfall in the High St/Main St part of the village.

SURgeRieS: Lochwinnoch Bowling Club on the first Tuesday of the month, Howwood Bowling Club on the second Tuesday of the month, Lilybank Bowling Club in Johnstone on the second Thursday of the month, and the Old Library, Kilbarchan on the last Tuesday of the month, all at 6.30pm.

The old library centre kilbarchan

oPeninG tiMes:

Monday – friday: 10am - 12pm & 2pm to 4pm

Monday

Spanish Conversation 2pm - 3.45pm(U3A)

Tuesday

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

Board Games 2pm - 4pm (U3A first Tuesday of the month)

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

Wednesday

yoga with Cheryl 10am -11.30am

yoga with Jo 7.30pm - 9pm

Thursday

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

Family History thursday 7pm (once a month)

Please phone or email for further info.

q 01505 706070

k kipcokil@hotmail.com

W www.kipco.org

the Old library Centre

9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan, Pa10 2eF Kipco is a Scottish charity, SC031251, run by volunteers

Back!

This year an extended programme begins with a Feel Good Fortnight 10th - 26th May. The schedule will include a wide range of events from creative workshops, recreational events, nature based activities, to therapeutic classes and talks.

A main highlight will be a Wellbeing Fair 18th May at McKillop Institute with stalls, workshops plus free massage taster treatments and refreshments. Therapists will be coming from across Europe as members of the Tan Thai Massage Academy return again this year. There will be a street performance from samba band BlocoWinnoch to kick the event off at 12pm.

The aims of the project are to build structure of support, connecting people to each other and introduce them to new activities that will lift their sense of wellbeing. LEAP do this while trying to remove financial barriers by funding events so they can be offered free or at affordable rates. The rest of the programme will include 14 days of free yoga, Pilates, movement and breathing classes, and much more.

This year organiser look forward to hosting activities across the renfrewshire Villages as the project extends its reach.

The full programme will soon be online at www.myleapproject.org/fgfevents and you can follow social media for updates at: www.facebook.com/groups/lochwinnochfeelgoodfestival

Kilbarchan NWR

We have a planning meeting in April and also will be reading/ performing the latest murder/mystery play Ad Hoc, written by an NWR English member with donations to charity. We shall meet for coffee and 9 of us are going to the Theatre Royal for “The Kite Runner” with lunch and going to Paisley Town Hall to hear Sally Magnusson speak.

The book group will discuss “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro and the Walking Group will join One Ren and Glasgow Life themed guided walks. For further info phone 703786 or visit www.nwr.org.uk

Kilbarchan Guide Centre

leisure Classes

Monday

art with iain 1.30pm - 3.30pm

TUESDAY

Fitness with Carol 9.30am - 10.30am

THURSDAY

yoga with Jacqueline 10am - 11am

FRIDAY

GirlGuidinG kilBarChan

Monday Rainbows 6pm to 7pm

Tuesday Rainbows 6pm to 7pm

Guides 7.15pm to 9pm

Wednesday Brownies 6.30pm to 7.45pm

Thursday Brownies 6.30pm to 7.45pm

enquiries: k kilbarchanguidecentre@gmail.com

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, High Barholm, Pa10 2eF

Registered Scottish Charity: SC033237

art with iain 10am - 12noon art Masterclass with iain 1pm to 3pm a www.girlguidingkilbarchan.weebly.com

Ward 9 ...

Cllr Gillian Graham

Renfrewshire Council’s SNP administration budget was approved last month, with the support of an Independent Cllr and a Liberal Democrat Cllr. I’m pleased to see funding for a new Thorn Primary and £150,000 for our community halls. However, spread across 20+ halls it’s a drop in the ocean and sadly unlikely to have the impact we would like to see. The Labour budget focussed on key priorities including Roads and Education: increasing the roads budget; providing free snacks for all school pupils (to reduce in-school hunger and support attainment) and targeted educational investment for our ASN (additional support needs) pupils and their families.

Inexplicably the Council budget includes a cut of £1.7million to the roads budget. The state of our roads is a constant frustration, particularly in Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch. To put this cut into context, experts advise our roads need £15million annually to be good and £7million to maintain current standards. The budget is now £5million so clearly our roads and pavements are only going to get worse this year.

Another issue residents raise with me is poor drainage and flooding. The drain infrastructure in our villages is old and struggles to cope with increased housing. The council has a new Flooding Officer who I have met with to discuss flooding concerns, I have invited him to meet with local groups to gain a greater understand of local issues.

Kilbarchan Steeple is a much-loved iconic building. Its condition has deteriorated significantly due to a long-term lack of investment by Renfrewshire Council. Last month I took the opportunity along with residents to view inside the building. It brought back many memories and was an incredibly sad sight, with damp evident throughout the building. I also attended a public meeting to establish a Friends of Kilbarchan Steeple Group. The building will need significant investment however there’s potential to secure Heritage Lottery funding and if we work together and think creatively it can have a new life within the community.

SurgerieS: 1st Saturday of the month: 9am McKillop institute, 10am Howwood Village Hall, 11am the Old Library Kilbarchan - Last Friday of the month Morrisons Supermarket, Johnstone.

q 0300 300 1268

k cllr.gillian.graham@renfrewshire.gov.uk

Heart Start Courses

Lochwinnoch & Howwood

Tuesday 23rd April - 7pm

Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch (Main St)

To book call Morag on 07868 752814

Kilbarchan

Parish Church

Services continue on Sundays at 11am, conducted by Rev Stephen Smith and Aaron Marshall. Junior Church and the crèche meet in the small hall from 10.45am. All welcome

The Tots’ Club meets on Mondays from 9.15am - 11.30am in the hall, all tots aged 3 and under, accompanied by an adult, are most welcome. The club is on holiday on 1st and 8th April, resuming on 15th.

Cuppa at the Kirk continues throughout April on Tuesday afternoons from 2pm - 3.30pm and anyone wishing to enjoy a warm space and friendly chat is welcome

Country Dancing continues on Tuesdays at 7.30pm

Midweek Fellowship continues on Wednesdays with coffee at 10.30, followed by a short service of worship.

The Badminton Club meets on Thursdays in the large hall at 8pm

Messy Church: Saturday 20th April 4pm, all children and adults welcome For all info visit the website: www.kilbarchankirk.org

Kilbarchan Church Eco-Group

Wednesday 1st May at 7.30pm there will be a free showing of the 2004 climate change film ‘Legacy’, in the hall at Kilbarchan Church, with a discussion after the film, along with tea and coffee.

‘Legacy’ takes a realistic view of the changes that are taking place in ordinary people’s lives: some low-lying islands in the Pacific and indian Ocean may soon disappear. The great Barrier Reef is dying because the sea is warmer than it was. Forest fires are now much more common. The deserts in sub-Saharan Africa are becoming uninhabitable. Here, this February in Scotland was one of the warmest ever. Despite this, many polluting power stations still exist, and emissions continue to rise.

As well as taking a hard look at the problems the film also discusses the solutions. Great steps are being taken in tackling climate change - but there is much still to be done.

This showing is being organised by The eco group of Kilbarchan Church.

Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Show

The 189th Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show will take place in the spectacular setting of the Knapps Loch on Saturday 11th May from 10am - it’s a great day out for the whole familyhuman and hairy!

With hundreds of entries in our wide range of animal classes - sheep, cows, horses (light and Clydesdale), dogs, and children’s cattle/sheep.

The Industrial Tent will showcase the domestic arts, crafts and baking by adults and children. Entry forms and fees must be submitted by Friday 10th May.

Light Horse classes, including cross country, show jumping, showing and games, will run all day. Light Horse classes should be entered online at: www.kilmacolmshow.org - fees increase from Saturday 4th May. Entries will be taken on showday at the Horse Tent at the increased fee amounts.

There will be a dog show for all hairy hounds - dogs do not need to be KC registered and entries are taken on showday from 10.30am at the Dog Ring or can be made online at: www.kilmacolmshow.org

Schedules and entry forms for all classes can be downloaded from the website when the classes are announced - www.kilmacolmshow.org

There will be entertainment in the main ring, trade stands galore, vintage tractors, a craft tent, a fairground and a food court. The ‘Knapps Experience’ will be next to the main ring where young and old can learn about farming, the environment, local heritage, try milking our model cow, and meet animals, bees and local community groups!

Follow us on socials to keep up to date with show news. information, schedules and online entry for Light Horses and Dog classes are available on the website: www.kilmacolmshow.org

Old Kirk Kilmacolm

Sunday Worship: Services are held each Sunday at 11am to which all are welcome. A Sunday School is available for children. 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 Instagram via @KilmacolmOld or visit our website: www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org.uk

Foodbank: Kilmacolm Old Kirk supports the work of the Church Angels in Port Glasgow who run a twice weekly Foodbank scheme. Donations can be made at each Sunday service, or through any of the leaders who run church activities in the Kidston Hall.

Ward 1 Cllr David Wilson

At Strathclyde Passenger Transport, the Regional Transport Authority for 12 West of Scotland Councils we have been occupied with and charged to conduct several key projects with national importance. Clyde Metro (case for investment), the Regional Transport Strategy 20232038 and the Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy. These are all of great importance to the public and carry implications for our constituents. Bus patronage has been in decline this century and is some 30% down. The transport Act 2019 identifies the current reality. It remains the most popular form of public transport but the industry is not necessarily serving the population adequately (though in Inverclyde we are in the main well catered for by McGill’s Buses).

We conducted an options appraisal on delivery of Future Delivery of the Bus Network and will go to consultation on the 5 options. Business as usual, Voluntary Partnerships, Service Improvement Partnerships, Local Services Franchising and Municipal Bus Companies. Officers recommendations are in priorities but the decision will depend on the results of the consultation and the views of our 12 councils and the 20 Councillors who sit on the SPT Board.

My colleague and I abstained at the budget meeting. We could neither support the administration 8.2% council tax increase or the opposition freeze which would result in a significant deficit. The increase was carried by a small majority but it does mean that cuts to the CCTV service, Civic Amenity Sites, Community Grants, Community Warden Service, Library opening hours and School Music Instruction will not now happen.

Scottish Office Minister Lord Malcolm Offord, responsible for levelling up, has moved on to an Export Portfolio. We are grateful to this ex Greenock Academy pupil for his help given to Inverclyde through his presence on our economic task force and his pointing of some £52m (partly Shared Prosperity Fund) UK levelling up monies in our direction. We will miss him.

My surgery is 20th April 10am-11am Cargill.

q 07766 992294 or 01475 741969 / 722975

k david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk

Kilmacolm new Community Centre

Centre Opening Times

Monday – friday: 9am - 10pm

saturday: 9am - 3pm sunday: Closed enquiries / rooM hire 01505 873994 www.cargillcentre.com

Monday

yoga with Janis 10am – 11am

yoga with liz 10am - 11am

yoga with Jane 11.30am - 12.30pm

Pilates with emma 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Bridge 7pm - 10.30pm

TUESDAY

Qi Gong 12noon – 1pm

Gamata youth Drama Class 5.45pm - 8.15pm Easter break 2nd & 9th April

art Club 6pm – 8.30pm

Wednesday

embroidery 10am – 12 noon

Move it or lose it 10.30am – 11.30am

Pensioner’s lunch 12.30pm – 2pm (book via Café)

Friendly Bridge 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Pilates with Jennifer 6.15pm – 7.15pm & 7.30pm – 8.30pm Easter holiday 3rd & 10th April

Thursday

Pilates with Jennifer 9.30am – 10.30am Easter holiday 4th & 11th April

yoga with Janis 10am – 11am

acting for Fun 5pm – 8.30pm

Bridge 7pm – 10.30pm

FRIDAY

Music land 10am – 11am

art Class 10am - 12noon

Pilates with Jane 11am – 12 noon

saturday

Gail ashley Dance School 9.30am - 3.30pm Easter break 6th & 13th April

Special events in APRIL

Wednesday 17th

Hearing Aid Help - 10.30am - 12.30pm

Civic Trust AGM - 7pm – 9.30pm

tuesday 30th

Community Council Meeting 7.30pm – 9.30pm

CounCillors surGeries:

Wednesday 17th

Cllr Christopher Curley – 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Saturday 20th

Cllr David Wilson - 10am – 11am

IMES

Opening times may vary this month due to Easter, kindly call to check. reserVations / takeaWay 01505 874663

Kilmacolm & Quarriers Civic Trust

The Civic Trust continues to be vigilant re local planning issues. The Trust AGM is to be held on Wednesday 17th April and you will be able to learn of its activities at that meeting. There is also a talk by Bob Ferguson from Dalgarven Mill. Watch out for the advertisements. With the proposed coming together of the two Church of Scotland congregations in Kilmacolm it is a good time to look at the history of both churches.

In the 6th century, St Columba and St Mungo brought Christianity to the west of Scotland. In 1556, at Finlaystone, John Knox held what was possibly the first Protestant communion in Scotland.

The Old Kirk, historically the parish church, is ancient in origin, standing on the site of an ancient religious community in the 6th century. It was built in the 13th century, rebuilt in the 16th century and again in 1861 with a church tower. In 1903 a major expansion took place, incorporating the chancel of the 13th century church, now the Murray Chapel.

The coming of the railway had brought an increase in population during the mid 1800s. In 1858 a group of parishioners joined the United Presbyterian church foundation, and in 1868 the church of St James was built in St James’s Terrace, now a main shopping area. There are no obvious remains of this church today.

By the early 1900s the building was too small for its growing congregation and a new church of St James was planned in Duchal Road, designed by William Leiper in decorated gothic revival style. It was opened in 1903 with the old St James being demolished soon after.

There was also the United Free church, St Columba’s, built in 1870 at the corner of Bridge of Weir Road and Glebe Road, a church with a magnificent spire.

In 1957 the two congregations of St James and St Columba’s decided to combine in the larger, newer church in Duchal Road, renaming it St Columba church and joining the Church of Scotland.

The old church was demolished in the 1960’s, all that remains is the main hall which serves as the local Masonic Hall.

Both the Old Kirk and St Columba church are part of the Clyde Presbytery.

There is much literature and may photographs of these churches in the Civic Trust archive, available through the Kilmacolm Civic Trust website www.kilmacolmcivictrust.org

Ward 1 ...

Cllr Stephen McCabe

The Council set a two-year budget on 29 February with a Council Tax rise of 8.2% in 2024/25 and a provisional rise of 6% in 2025/26, which will be reviewed in February 2025. Those of us who voted for this proposal believed it was the best way to limit cuts to jobs and services over the next two years. It is fair to say that our decision to raise Council Tax wasn’t welcomed by the Scottish Government and we were one of only two Councils in Scotland to approve an increase in defiance of the First Minister’s demand for a nationwide Council Tax freeze. At the time of writing this column I am in discussion with the Scottish Government over a compromise proposal whereby Council Taxpayers will receive a discount in 2024/25 to ensure they effectively benefit from a freeze and any permanent increase in Council Tax is deferred until 2025/26. I will update you further next month.

A decision on the future of the Council owned land at the Wateryetts Drive roundabout has been delayed until the next Environment and Regeneration Committee on 16th May as discussions between the Council and the housing developer have not been concluded. There were lots of responses to the consultation, most of which oppose the sale on planning grounds. However, outline planning permission has already been granted by the Scottish Government. Several local projects have been included in the roads capital programme for 24/25: Auchenfoil Road (part), Belmont Road (part), Cargill Ave, Craigbet Rd (part), and Wateryetts Drive/Yetts Ave.

I was delighted to meet HRH The Princess Royal when she visited our new cruise terminal in Greenock last month. It is always good to get the Royal seal of approval.

My advice surgery this month will be on Tuesday 16th April from 6pm-7pm in Boglestone Community Centre.

Out and About

Not

All Heroes Wear Capes...

Next Deadline...

#347

(some of them wear gardening gloves!)

Gangs of green fingered ladies and gents are silently, tirelessly and often without much in the way of recognition, brightening our villages with colourful displays of spring flowers. We thought it was time to give some credit to these galloping gardeners, so the Advertizer caught up with Brighter Bridge of Weir, Bee Happy Houston and Colourful Kilmacolm to ask these busy bees some questions:

Which displays or projects are you most proud of that Colourful Kilmacolm (CK) have worked on?

The one Colourful Kilmacolm project that has made the greatest difference to the appearance of the village centre is probably our garden on the steep embankment at Carriages. Ten years ago it was almost bare, save for a few woody bushes and rather a lot of rubbish, but our enthusiastic volunteers soon cleared the site and made a colourful garden, using surplus plants donated by our members.

What plans does CK have for the upcoming year?

We are always open to suggestions of sites for other planters. If anyone has a suitable site near them and would be willing to water and deadhead, we could supply the planter, compost and plants. We are always looking for more (slightly younger!) helpers. There is no regular time slot and so you are not bound to a particular time. See below for contact details.

Where can you view some of Brighter Bridge of Weir displays, and where do you get your plants?

Brighter Bridge of Weir has features throughout the village, from free-standing street planters, tubs, barrier- and post-baskets, to open spaces. There is a small, raised bed beneath the ‘Welcome to Bridge of Weir’ sign opposite Burndale Kitchens on Johnstone Road, and a street planter opposite the park on Houston Road. In between are almost 100 planters and several feature gardens, such as the Woodland Garden opposite Livery Walk, Torr Road Garden, and the Heritage Garden between the Co-op and the new Home Hardware store. Whenever possible we source our plants from locally-based suppliers.

What type of projects does Bee Happy Houston carry out?

Our gardeners look after over 20 beds, 50 planters, wildflower and bulb areas, a small orchard and lots of planted trees. After working hard each week we head to the Fox and Hounds for refreshments. Litter picking and Foodbank collections are also organised by the group.

What is the best thing about being in Bee Happy Houston?

The best thing about the group is the opportunity to meet like minded people while being outside and improving the local environment. We have all made great friends in our community. We are always very welcoming to new members!

These groups are always on the lookout for more members. If you fancy giving up some of your free time to brighten up your village then please get in touch with one of the contacts below:

Colourful Kilmacolm:

Peter: 01505 872448

Liz: 07963 973031

Brighter Bridge of Weir:

www.brighterbridgeofweir.org

https://www.facebook.com/ brighterbridgeofweir e: info@brighterbridgeofweir.org

Bee Happy Houston:

Turn up 10am Thursday mornings opposite cemetery gates via Facebook: Bee Happy Houston e: beehappyhouston@outlook.com

Peter McKerrel (CK) at Market Place Garden, Kilmacolm

Most of the Brighter Bridge of Weir Team!

Marie Richardson, BeeHappy Houston

Design Your Perfect Outdoor Living Space

A rundown of some of our brilliant outdoor specialists and designers.

As the sun pokes its head through the clouds and spring gets underway we begin to think about spending more time out of doors. Our gardens are bursting once more into life. Tidying, trimming, planting, mulching, nourishing are all well underway. And if you feel you want some advice or help with these tasks, you can find a plethora of great gardening services within these very pages. Why not put your feet up and allow some professionals to take the strain. However, if you have in mind more extensive designing, adding a special feature, or bringing the indoors outdoors, then read on...

Perhaps you’ve decided to go that extra mile and make some improvements to your garden that will enable it to become an extension of your living area - a space to spend carefree summer days relaxing with a drink in one hand and a book in the other, or a quite space to work. Brookfield Custom Cabins may have the answer. From Summer Houses to Outdoor Offices, their range of tailor made cabins is worth checking out.

Maybe you need some soft landscaping to merge wildlife friendly features with growing and playing areas? Apple Tree Gardens from Bridge of Weir work with your budget, taking into account the aspect of your garden and your soil type to design your perfect space. They’re also chemical free – which is great if you want to protect children, pets and wildlife.

If you’d like to transform your outdoor space into somewhere functional, stylish and suited to your lifestyle check out 3D Garden Design, based in Kilmacolm. These consummate landscapers have won a Marshalls Register award and the quality shines through. Hop onto their website to browse the impressive portfolio.

Along with tree surgery work, Kodiak Trees and Landscaping from Houston have a wide breadth of services including garden buildings, turf and Astroturf, composite and timber decking and stone walling. So if you are in need of extensive landscaping, or even just a one off job, these guys have you covered.

If you’re battling with a mossy or weed infested lawn every year, Greenleaves on the Clyde Coast offer a range of packages that can help you get the lawn of your dreams. Also on offer are services to improve your driveway or decking areas. Get a free quote by entering a few details on their website.

Bringing indoor comfort and style to your outdoor space can make a real difference to your garden area. The newly opened Wrights Home Hardware in Bridge of Weir has an extensive choice of outdoor supplies, from lighting options and outdoor furniture, Home Hardware has the lot. Get ready to enjoy your space from dawn till dusk.

Whatever your vision, we are sure that our fabulous gardeners, retailers, landscapers and outdoor design specialists can help you take your outdoor space to the next level.

Bridge Of Weir

Horticultural Society

The Gardening Club meets on Thursday 11th April in Freeland Church Hall at 8pm. Our ‘guests’ will be “Brighter Bridge of Weir” - a successful and much appreciated group of local volunteers. Their displays of blooms in planters, or once unkempt village corners, are eye-catching. To have transformed the village, a ribbon development, is quite an achievement and Neil Thomson, our speaker, will talk about their work and future plans. As always, visitors are welcome.

April is to be cool with temperatures rising mid-month. So far, no frosty conditions are forecast and it might be quite a dry month –but remain cautious about predictions! Be prepared, have fleece ready to cover Azaleas and Camellias etc. If digging in new plants, after the initial watering, keep an eye on them.

Now is a good time to re-pot shrubs. Gently decant, shake off surplus soil and replant with fresh compost, then top dress with Fish, Blood & Bone. If required, untwist the roots and cut back some of the longer ones which are the “anchors”. The fibrousy ones absorb nutrition, so treat with care. If required, stabilise the plant with a stake Water well – dunk the pot in a bucket and watch the air bubbles rise, or place in a saucer and catch run-off. With large and heavy pots, scrape out the top compost and add fresh. Check the soil for unwelcome visitors – particularly vine weevils. Occasionally New Zealand Flat Worms appear, innocently introduced in a new potted plant. They too are a gardener’s nightmare. They are flat, blackish, slimy and have a probing head. They attach themselves to our lovely fat earth worms and literally suck the living daylights out of them. The smell of a decomposing worm is revolting. Despatch both species speedily!

For further info contact Donald Hepburn (Chair), 01505 612898.

Lochwinnoch Community Garden Open Day

Saturday 27th April from 12.30pm to 4.30pm in the Community Garden behind the Parish Church.

Drop in to see what’s going on!

Free Entry

Talks - Lisa Davis from Shrubs to SudsGardeners Question Time 12.30pm -1.30pm

Liz Parsons from Starling Learning - Family Chat about Garden Wildlife 2pm - 3pm

Also Plant Sale, Shrubs to Suds, Face Painting & Refreshments

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society

Annual Coffee Morning and Plant Sale on Saturday 4th May in Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm 10am - 12noon.

Entrance £4. Top quality plants from Parklea nurseries, coffee and home baking, with a Tombola stall. Everyone welcome.

Bridge of Weir Angling Club

Bridge of Weir angling club river is celebrating it’s 150th anniversary this year 1874 2024, a three seater metal bench with plaque was installed by the riverside above quarries village.

Membership is available for local members which includes Bridge of Weir, Kilmacolm, Houston, Brookfield, also associate membership for outwith .

Senior membership £45 annually plus one off £15 entry fee

Junior membership £3 annually plus one off entry fee £2.

Species include brown trout , grayling and Atlantic salmon .

Application forms obtained at The Bridge Post Office, Main Street, Bridge of Weir.

Saturday 27th April from 10am - 12noon

Outside Kilmacolm Library, Kilmacolm

Why not pop along and buy some beautiful plants?

Donations in aid of Pancreatic Cancer Action and SGS charities please.

Welcome to RSPB Lochwinnoch. It’s that time of year again when the trails are full of birdsong as males try to entice a mate, frogspawn is everywhere and insects are coming out of hibernation. Out on the scrape, you may see Little Ringed Plovers, Lapwings and Common Sandpipers. Lookout for Swallows and Swifts as they swoop over the loch catching insects on the wing. It’s the time of the year when everything changes, from winter migrants who are now leaving the reserve, to the arrival of our summer visitors.

You may see Great Crested Grebes out on the loch. If you are lucky, you may see them perform their courting ritual. It’s difficult not to be enchanted by their dance. They face one another, sporting striking orange and black plumage, they flick their heads from side to side, bob in unison and then swim low and slow towards each other in the water.

Did you know that these beautiful birds were nearly extinct during the Victorian era? This was due to the popularity of using feathers to adorn ladies’ hats. But those days have long gone and Great Crested Grebes are now a familiar sight on our lakes and reservoirs.

We also have a few upcoming events at the reserve. Our younger visitors can take part in the Spring Super Spotter Scavenger Hunt throughout May. They can use their explorer skills to find what’s hidden in the trees.

Why not participate in the Dawn Chorus Guided Walk on 5th May?

Marvel as you walk the trails and listen to the magnificent chorus from our feathered friends. (Online booking essential)

Have you ever wanted to be able to identify birds by their call? Then this is the event for you, Birding and Birdsong for Beginners, on 18th May. (Online booking essential)

Our last event for May is a Women Only Wildlife Walk on 29th May, led by female staff and volunteers. They will show you around this fantastic reserve. (Online booking essential)

Our visitor centre and shop are open seven days a week from 7.30pm to 5pm. Here, you can purchase all of your bird feeding requirements, buy a gift for a loved one, or maybe some binoculars or a telescope for yourself.

Or why not come and chill out with a hot drink and a snack, sit, and watch the wildlife from the windows? Our friendly staff and volunteers are looking forward to your visit.

Urban Walk through Paisley

by Rona Simpson

///tent.games.pasta

Did you know that Paisley has Scotland’s largest concentration of listed buildings outwith Edinburgh? Why not take a ‘daunder’ around this historic centre and immerse yourself in the rich history of the town.

From the station head past Weatherspoon’s to Moss Street. Turn right and then cross the road a few yards up and head down Meetinghouse Lane. Turn left onto Oakshaw Street East and follow this along until you reach the Oakshaw Trinity Church on your left-hand side. This church dates back to 1764 and is located on one of the highest points of the town. Legend has it that during its construction a stone mason fell to his death and his workmates carved the outline of a handkerchief and spectacles into the cobbles where he fell as a memorial to him. It is a lovely looking church. Continue down the street passing the Coats Observatory, which is unfortunately closed at this time, until you reach the junction with Wellmeadow Street. Near here you will find the famous Abbey Books –one of Scotland’s oldest second-hand bookstores.

After a browse here continue along Wellmeadow Street until it becomes High Street and you will shortly come upon the Thomas Coats Memorial Church. See below for a more detailed explanation of this wonderful building. Worth stopping here for a photo or two. Continue along High Street passing the Paisley Museum which is currently under renovation. The next stop is Paisley Town Hall – which you will find at the far end of the high street. This grand 19th century building still hosts events including those pertaining to this month’s Paisley Book Festival. Adjacent to the Town Hall is Paisley Abbey. This iconic building harks back to the 12th century, although much of it has been rebuilt since then. It is said to be the ‘cradle of the house of Stewart’ from which many of our Kings and Queens descend. See if you can spot the gargoyle that has been modelled to look like one of the monsters from the film Alien. Also worth seeing is the rare Barochan Celtic Cross. Guided tours are on a Tuesday & Thursday at 2pm, admission is £5.

After all this sight seeing you may be peckish. Luckily across the road from the Abbey is Il Pescatore – a beautiful fish restaurant near the canal. If you fancy something a little more ‘casual’, there is also the fantastic Paisley Pie Co nearby.

Opposite the Pie Co is St Mathews Church – built in 1906 and designed by William Daniel Mclennan – it is said to be one of the finest examples an Art Nouveau church in Europe. Check the web page for opening times. Follow Orchard Street to the traffic lights and head south down Causeyside Street and take a right along Brown’s Lane. If you fancy a coffee there is the lovely Jam Jar Café on your right a little way along. Around the corner is the Sma’ Shot Cottages where you can discover how people lived in two important periods of Paisley’s weaving past. Head north crossing Witherspoon Street and join New Street meeting High Street and head east until you find Moss Street and then north will take you back to the Station.

Local History

This awe-inspiring Neo-Gothic structure was built by the family of Thomas Coats after his death. Under Thomas and his brother Peter Coats, the Ferguslie Thread works – Paisley’s famous thread mill - became one of the largest and mills in the world. Thomas Coats bestowed many gifts to the people of Paisley including a public park and many improvements to schools. He was a member of the Paisley Philosophical Institution in Paisley and in 1882 he gifted the Coats Observatory to the Society. His family and people of Paisley thought it fitting that a memorial should be built to the man who did so much for the town.

The initial budget for the building was set at £20,000 but by the time it was completed in 1894 costs had soared to around £110, 000, although taking in the spectacular design it is easy to see why. The central tower rises to a steeple and flying buttresses shoot out from the knaves and transepts. Unfortunately, the church is currently closed to the public but opens on doors open days and can be hired for special events.

Start/FiNiSh: Paisley Gilmour St. Station

PoiNtS oF iNtereSt: Architecture/Eateries

DiStaNce: 3K

DiFFiculty ratiNg: Easy

The Thomas Coats Memorial Church, Paisley

Bridge of Weir Hillwalkers

Once again a mix bag of weather but we were fortunate and managed two great outings. Our Sunday walk took us up Glen Luss before heading uphill towards Beinn Eich. After a few hundred metres, we were into deep, fresh snow and a steady pull up to the minor summit of Beinn Eich before continuing along the ridge to the summit of Beinn Lochain. The snow made for slow going but the magnificent views were ample compensation. Given time constraints, some opted to return at this point while a few hardy souls went on to summit Doune Hill which inevitably led to the last couple of miles back being in the dark! Our low level walk was the Smugglers Trail from Troon to Dundonald Castle and return by the same route (around 14 miles total). We were blessed with a clear day and the route took in beach, golf course crossing, lunch by the reservoir at Aught Wood then via Beech Wood to Dundonald Castle. Returning by the same route was the most scenic option as we enjoyed views towards the coast and Alisa Craig. A week for the legs to recover then its off to Grasmere in the Lake District for 3 days walking. We can be contacted via our Facebook page: Bridge of Weir Hillwalkers

Kilbarchan Smile Litter Pick

Kilbarchan Smile and Kilbarchan Parish Church Eco Group are joining forces for a Litter Pick on Saturday 27th April at 2pm. We are meeting at the car park in Ewing Street where full instructions and equipment will be provided. Refreshments will be available in the church hall in Steeple Square after the litter pick has been completed.Last year (pictured) was a great success. Please come and join us to help make our village an even better place to live, work and visit.

Schools & Sports

Schools & Sports

Houston Primary News

KGV Cross Country Race

Our Primary 6 & 7 pupils had an amazing morning at the Renfrewshire Cross Country event at the King George V playing fields in Renfrew. They received trophies and medals in every category. Well done to our fantastic athletes! Please visit our blog to see more photographs.

Chocolicious ... Delicious!

On Friday 1st March Houston Primary School set up Chocolicious… Delicious at the West Halls in Houston in partnership with Houston and Killellan Kirk. The doors opened to the community to raise funds for Fairtrade. Pupils prepared Fairtrade chocolate stirrers and tray-bakes prior to the event with support from staff and parents. On the day, they were added to milk to make delicious Fairtrade hot chocolate. A wonderful selection of Fairtrade home baking was provided by volunteers from the Houston and Killellan Church and Primary 7 pupils. The event was an amazing success and raised much needed funds for the Fairtrade charity. Thank you to everyone who came along to support this event.

In school we also had our very own Fairtrade shop for our pupils and staff to purchase hot chocolate stirrers.

Langbank Primary School

World Book Day - Thursday the 7th of March 2024. The children took part in a range of fun activities through-out the day to engage in reading and share their love of books. These activities included the mystery masked reader, a whole school read along and a special celebration of reading at Bookfest. Children also all enjoyed a Mad Hatters Tea Party inspired by the Lewis Carroll book “Alice in Wonderland”.

Pupils across p1-7 were also set a homework challenge to create a ‘Story Spuds’. These were potatoes dressed as the pupils’ most loved book characters. They were displayed proudly in the hall for all to see through-out the day. All school staff were blown away by the creativity of the children and they brought lots of smiles to the everyone’s faces.

A Visit from Glasgow Science Centre

P4-7 enjoyed a fantastic show from Glasgow Science Centre on March 5th. They took part in the Learning Labs workshops where pupils learned more about the science behind building, living in and looking behind castles. Then p6/7 had a hands on workshop where they learned to be forensic anthropologists!

St Columba’s School

World Book Day

Junior School was the place to be to see all of your favourite book characters on World Book Day, including Mr Twit (complete with gummy worms in his beard), Mr Bump and The Cat in the Hat, to name a few.

The children (and adults) loved getting to celebrate all things bookish with lots of fun activities in class and, of course, plenty of reading! The Junior 4, 5 and 6 classes even helped to spread their love of reading to the younger children in Prep, Junior 1 and Junior 2 by sharing some of their favourite books with them during paired reading.

Our special thanks to former pupil Marcella Wylie (Class of 2004) who spent time with Junior 3 telling them all about illustrating her new children’s book.

Scottish Young Musicians

In early March, we were delighted to host the St Columba’s heat of the Scottish Young Musicians Solo Performer of the Year - a nationwide competition to discover the brightest musical talent in Scotland.

Five talented musicians took to the stage to try to secure a place in the next round of the competition. The overall standard was incredibly high, leaving our adjudicator – Mrs Patricia MacMahon – with a very difficult decision. In the end, clarinettist Sasha C (SVI) was declared the winner with pianist Sophie R (SVI) the runner up.

We wish Sasha the very best of luck for the remainder of the competition. Want to experience life as a Columban? Get in touch with our Admissions Registrar today and arrange a visit to see the School in action. You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news from across the School. admissions@st-columbas.org | st-columbas.org

Gryffe Valley Rotary

Youth Activities March 2024

This time of year is a busy period Youth Activities with various competitions reaching a critical stage.

The South of Scotland Young Chef competition was held in Ayrshire College, Kilmarnock at the end of February with two of our youngsters among the nine qualifying for that stage. Both

Halla, Gryffe High, and Catherine, St Benedict’s, performed very well but missed out on the selection for the next stage, the Scottish Final.

Judging in the Club stage of the Young Writer competition was completed by early March, with the overall winners in each of the three age groups going forward to the South of Scotland District 1320 final. The task of writing up to 550 words of prose or up to 40 lines of poetry on the theme of “Rebuilding” was tackled by pupils in six schools, with club prizes of book tokens being awarded for the best entries in each group.

Good luck to our District Entries, Jennifer G from Gryffe High in the Seniors, Lawrie M from St Columba’s in the Intermediates and Hajira A from Bridge of Weir Primary in the Juniors.

Our 17th Annual Primary School Quiz was held early on 7th March in the JG Fleming Bowling Club, Houston with teams from Lochwinnoch, Bridge of Weir, Houston and St Columba’s competing for the shield and a place in the District Final. In a keenly contested quiz of sixty questions, split into ten rounds, the teams were all within a few points at the mid-evening interval, but St Columba’s then moved ahead steadily to secure the trophy with Bridge of Weir just one point ahead of third placed Houston.

Kilmacolm Tennis Club

The tennis never stops at KTC, and the Winter Super League, played in the evenings by floodlight, often in harsh conditions, was won quite convincingly, by team A, consisting of Michael, David, Mia and Angela. Spring Superleague is now fully underway with 6 teams of 4 competing fiercely for the trophy.

Social tennis continued every Saturday afternoon at 2 pm throughout the winter, as did Ladies Social tennis, every Tuesday and Thursday Morning, 10am to Midday. Social tennis at 7pm on a Wednesday evening will return after the clocks change, and the drop-in nature of social tennis makes it the ideal place for new members to come and play.

We have 4 gents teams and 6 ladies teams all playing in the West of Scotland summer leagues and a similar amount in the autumn leagues.

Here at Kilmacolm, we have active members aged from beginner children to life long players well into their eighties. We have a great many members who have started tennis later in life, proving that it’s never too late to learn. Many of our current members joined when they became empty nesters, or when they retired.

Kilmacolm Tennis Club welcomes new members of all abilities. An adult membership beginning April 2024 costs a budget friendly £190 for the year, and there are no court hire fees. Courts are booked using an easy to use app. For all enquiries, please contact: kilmacolmtc@gmail.com

Castle Semple Sailing Club

This years sailing season has now started and we’ve already had some excellent events at the club. In mid-February we hosted a Scottish RS Feva team racing event. This was hugely successful and it was very pleasing to see young Castle Semple members competing and performing so well. Off the water, a series of midweek talks was organised covering Boat Speed, Racing Rules, and then Tactics. These events were led by members and were very well attended with excellent discussions taking place. Time will tell how well we all put these tips into practice! The Sunday Winter Series also kicked off in February, and although the weather has still be challenging we’ve had a keen start to this years club racing. As always, there is plenty of work to do around the clubhouse and boat yard and the end of March saw the first work party of the year taking place. There has been significant progress with clubhouse renovations over the last year and plans are in place to continue this work. As always, if anyone would like to find out more, please drop by the club on Sunday afternoons or contact us on info@ castlesemple.co.uk.

RegularClassesMeet

Step aerobic Class

Freeland Church, Main street, Bridge of Weir (Opposite amaretto)

tuesday: 7pm

S te P is making a huge comeback in popularity. a great workout for all fitness levels, high or low intensity. Why not come along and have fun whilst working out?

q 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

q Jennifer 07731 303709

k jennifer-mcghee@hotmail.co.uk

Zumba

Freelands Church, Main street, Bridge of Weir (Opposite amaretto)

Monday: 10am

love to dance? Why not come along and dance to fantastic music and feel FaB. all fitness levels welcome. From the young to the young at heart.

q Mo 07505 126 416

Move it or Lose it!

Langbank, Gourock, Bridge of Weir, Greenock, Kilmacolm, Houston and Kilbarchan

Classes aimed at men & women over 60, for those who are socially isolated or anyone who has health issues preventing them from attending the gym. We’d love to meet you.

a www.moveitorloseit.co.uk

f Move-it -or-lose-it-with-fiona

q Fiona 07811 766672

Sk fitness

Ranfurly Castle Golf Club, Old Pro shop, Golf Course Road, Bridge of Weir GROUP TRaInInG: Mon: 9am & 6pm, tues: 7pm, Fri: 9am

s PI n & W e IGHT s : Mon: 5pm, Wed: 9am, thur: 6.30am & 7pm, Fri: 6.50am, Sat: 9am

sPIn: tues: 7am, Wed: 5pm, thur: 9am, Fri: 6am

sPIn & BOXInG: Wed: 6pm, Sat: 8am

q Suzanne 07525 536070

SANA YOGA

Kilbarchan scout Hall

Traditional yoga and yin yoga, sound Baths

tuesday & Sunday, Book online

a www.yogasana.one

k zoe@yogasana.one

q Zoe 07850 397666

The Old Course Ranfurly

With the golfing season fast approaching, The Old Course Ranfurly is in great condition for the time of year, a testament to the hard work of our green keeping staff throughout the winter months. Whilst we look forward to the golfing season commencing, our social events continue. Our last monthly quiz night was hosted by our quiz master Donald Hepburn and there was a full house who enjoyed a buffet meal beforehand. Many congratulations to our winning team who chose to donate the £240 raised on the night to cancer research. Our next quiz night will be held on Friday 29th March.

On Saturday 9th March, we welcomed The Broclaimers to the club for a Proclaimers Tribute evening which started with a 2 course Scottish themed buffet. The band not only played a Proclaimers hit list, but also other hits by Scottish bands which culminated of course with I would walk 500 miles! A great evening was had by all member and guests who attended and we will certainly be welcoming them back to the club in the future.

On Sunday 10th March we were delighted to see a full clubhouse for our special Mothers Day lunch. Well done to the catering team and clubhouse staff for looking after all our members and guests.

Brookfield Bowling Club

Opening Day for the new season on Saturday 6th April at 2pm

We would like to welcome any new members who will be made 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.

Gryffe Valley Rotary Annual 10K

Arrangements for the 10K run are going ahead apace! Registrations are coming in and the home baking for the renowned refreshments afterwards has started. Posters are appearing in shops and on lampposts. We would particularly welcome registrations for teams (of four+) who can attract sponsorship for our mental health and dementia support groups. Please register now.

Once again this year, there will be a Kids Runs in the Houston Public Park beforehand (assemble at 12.15pm) with a short run for aged 7 and under and a 2K Run for 7- 11. There is no Registration fee but parents will be invited to make a donation. Prizes have been donated by Arnold Clark.

Sales & Wants

submit your items:

q 01505 613340

k info@advertizer.co.uk

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

Items For Sale

Baby Equipment

Defibrillators:

Bishopton

• The Cornerstone, Greenock Rd

• Bishopton Community Centre

Brookfield

Silver Cross Grey Hard bodied pram.

• £150. Tel: 07437 955531. Email for photo elaine.smyth2409@gmail.com

Clothes & Shoes

Vera Wang wedding dress. Never

• been worn. Size 10, soft white. £250. Tel: 07437 955531. Email for photos elaine.smyth2409@gmail.com

Household & Garden

Modern Dining Room Suite, black,

• chrome and glass. £300. Tel: 01505 506385.

B & Q Long Reach Hedge Trimmer.

• Only used once. £45. Tel: 0141 589 1976.

2 Sweater Floral Bed Settee (bed

• never been used). £250. Tel: 01505 506385.

Conservatory furniture set. Green with

• cream coloured cushions. Settee + 2 chairs, coffee table & side table. Good condition. £300. Tel: 07968 246289.

VAX Stick Hoover with hand held

• attachment, charger, all attachments and wall bracket and instructions. Rarely used. £40 ono. Tel: 07787 687570.

Sports

Golf Clubs and bag, would suit lady or • junior. 2 Drivers, Rescue club, 8 Irons and Putter. £55. Tel: 01505 346118.

Other Items

• Brookfield Village Hall Bridge of Weir

• Co-Op

• Old Ranfurly Golf Club

• Ranfurly Castle Golf Club

• Gate Hs, BoW Leather Works

Quality Laura Ashley 3 seater & 2

• seater settees in beige with castors. Good condition. Includes 4 separate cushions. £175 (will sell separately). Tel: 01505 873088 or 07799 831505.

Electrical & Gas

• £10 each. Tel: 01505 873140.

2 x 4.5 kilo empty butane gas cylinders.

Swan 10 Litre Urn, 1600W Model SWU

• 10L. Used on only two occasions –as new condition. £30. Tel: 01505 872592.

• caravan. £15. Tel: 01505 873140.

25m electrical extension cable for

Collard & Collard Baby Grand

• Piano - just short of 5ft. Matt ebony. Replacement/new keyboard etc. Offers invited. Tel:01505 506385.

• condition. Tel: 01505 506385.

Silver Grey velvet Chaise Long. New

• available. Tel: 01505 506385.

Downsizing - quality home furnishings

Wanted Items

Old records wanted. 45s & LPs Cash • paid. Tel: 01505 873958 or 07710 777571.

WANTED ITEMS: please note there is a charge of £6.00 +VAT for Wanted Items. Contact info@advertizer.co.uk for details.

Local History: The Renfrew Ferry

A ferry between Renfrew and Glasgow has operated from ‘Ferry Green’ in Renfrew for over 200 years. Originally it operated further east up the river. There are documents suggesting that a ferry service existed between Renfrew and the city as far back as 1614 and the people of Renfrew have had the ‘right of ferry’ since medieval times. Its original port was housed where Braehead shopping centre now stands. The move to its present location was on the request of one of Glasgow’s most eminent tobacco lords – Alexander Speirs. He had decided to build a huge mansion at King’s Inch and found the Southern Crossing to run through his property, so he asked for it to be moved half a mile west. As way of recompense, Speirs offered to build two quays, a ferry house and a new road.

The first ferries carried horses, carriages and people and were operated by a set of pulley ropes or chains fixed at either bank and were hauled by hand before machines were built to do a similar job in the 1800s. The advent of steam power meant the ferries grew bigger and more important to the people of the city. Ferry green transformed into a large public park where many people met.

The height of shipbuilding on The Clyde meant that the Renfrew Ferry became hugely important for transporting workers and those wishing to see the large vessels - and it began running round the clock 7 days a week. On Sunday 8th March, 1936, when the new Queen Mary was docked at Clydebank an old record shows that 21,386 passengers, 946 motor cars, 141 motorcycles, 819 bicycles and 67 vans made the crossing.

The decline of the shipyards, the opening of the Erskine Bridge and the Clyde Tunnel all had an impact on the ferry services on the Clyde, however, the Renfrew Ferry, although reduced, still runs to this day. The Southern Ferry House also remains in use as the popular local pub, The Ferry Inn. Why not treat yourself to a wee bit of Glasgow History and take a ferry ride from Renfrew to Yoker and maybe grab a pint or a pub lunch at the Ferry Inn on the way back! For more info: https://www. facebook.com/RenfrewFerry.

elderslie

• Elderslie Golf Club

houston

• 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

• Howwood Hall, Station Rd

• Christ the King Church, Bowfield Rd

• The Boarding House (open hrs)

• Howwood Primary School fence

Johnstone

• Keystore, Spateston

• Keystore, Corseford

• Johnstone Town Hall

• Scottish Fire & Rescue

kilmacolm

• Kilmacolm Golf Club

• St Columba’s Senior School

• Gym, Birkmyre Park

• Library (rear of New Surgery)

kilBarchan

• Scout Hall

• Kilbarchan Bowling Club

• Kilbarchan Primary School (main door)

langBank

• Langbank Village Hall

• Doctors surgery, Station Rd (carpark wall)

linWood

• Onyx Leisure Centre

• Spar, Clippens Rd

• Asda

lochWinnoch

• Outside GP Practice, Main St paisley

• Russell Institute Quarriers

• William Quarriers House (entrance to Faith Ave)

• Country View

• The Health Hub

p ick up a copy:

Bridge of Weir

• Gibb Stuart

• Bernie’s

• Anderson’s Bakery

• Co-op

houston

• Co-op

• Newsagent

• Curly Coffee

hoWWood

• Village store

kilmacolm

• Newsagent

• Co-op

• Community Centre

• Curly Coffee

Johnstone

• Johnstone Library

kilBarchan

• Bobbins

• Old Library Centre

lochWinnoch

• Castle Semple

• Key Store

• La Dolce Vita

l ocal h alls:

Bridge of Weir

Freeland Church 01505 612610

www.freelandchurch.org.uk

Brookfield Village Hall 01505 335562 www.brookfieldvillage.org

houston Carrick Centre 01505 229597

e: thecarrickcentre@gmail.com

Compass Centre 01505 615441

kilBarchan

Guide Centre

e: kilbarchanguidecentre@ gmail.com

www.girlguidingkilbarchan. weebly.com

Old Library Centre 01505 706070 www.kipco.org

kilmacolm

Cargill Centre 01505 873994

www.cargillcentre.com

Brownie/Guide Hut guidehutbookings@gmail.com

local councils:

a www.renfrewshire.gov.uk

a www.inverclyde.gov.uk

Small Business Ads

We accept any of the folloWing:

media pack available online at: a www.advertizer.co.uk/advertise/

#348

#349

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 re-insert the advertisement, adjust the cost or provide a refund. This does not apply if the Advertisement has been approved by the Advertising Client prior to publication. The total liability of the Publisher for such an occurrence shall not exceed the amount of a full refund for that particular Advertisement.

The Advertising Client agrees to indemnify the Publisher in

• respect of all costs, damages or other charges falling upon the Publisher as the result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the publication of the Advertisement, or any one or more of the series of Advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions supplied to the Publisher.

Readers are reminded that when purchasing items or services

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

editorial

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.

C ontent o F t H e gry FF e adverti Z er C annot B e

reProdUCed WitHoUt Consent FroM PUBlisHer

The Gryffe Advertizer is published by © The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd

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.

Ads Directory by Category

Education

St

Electricians

MAS Electrical & Security . . 36

Russell Milne Electrician . . 32

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Fencing

McLaughlan Metal . . . . . . . . . . 19

Fencetec Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Firewood & Logs

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Blazing Firewood Supplies . . 6

Funeral Services

John Roach Funeral . . . . . . . . . 21

Alan Beaton Funeral Services . . 8

Garage Doors & Gates

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Garden Service & Design

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 31

R Williams Tree Services . . . 35

CHG Architecture . . . . . . . . . . 33

Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Kodiak Trees & Landscaping Ltd . . 31

Fencetec Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Greensleeves Clyde Coast . . . 31

Stemma Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 32

John’s Gardening Services . . 33

Lady Grafters Garden . . . . . . . 33

J Andrews Garden Maintenance . . 35

Brookfield Custom Cabins . . . 31

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 33

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 28

Frontline Building Maintenance . . 11

Apple Tree Gardens . . . . . . . . . 31

Gas & Heating Services

Rightio Subcontractors Ltd . . 39

Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 9

Hairdressers & Barbers

Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 29

Health, Beauty & Fitness

New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 4

Decorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Bishopton Dental Care . . . . . . 5

LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Home Hardware

Wright’s Home Hardware . . . . . 13

Home Improvements

CMS Surveyors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Fencetec Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Kieran Turner Aerial

Apple

KC

Mr

Fastclean

Driveways

C Hunter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 23

Gasfit . . .

Glazier

Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 17

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

Access4Lofts

Joiners Taylor

Plasterers

Bryan

Kilellan

James

Plumbers

Solicitors

Kingsley Wood & Co . . . . . . . . . 18

Occasions & Taxis

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Tiling

Gordon James Ceramic . . . . . . . 16

Paul Jaconelli Pro Tiling . . 27

Tree Surgeon

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Kenmore Tree Care . . . . . . . . . 35

R Williams Tree Services . . . 35

Kodiak Trees & Landscaping Ltd . . 31

Retail

Andersons

Roofing

Bryan Slaven Slater&Plaster . .

Thomas

Gryffe

KC

Building . . . . . . 2

I&J Building & Roofing . . . . . 28

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 6

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 33

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Stemma Tree Care . . . . . . . . . . 32

TV, CCTV & Satellite

Kieran Turner Aerial . . . . . . . 27

Upholstery Services

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 16

Window Cleaners

Gryffe Roofing & Cleaning . . 29

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 16

Matthews Cleaning Services . . 16

Window, Consv & Repair

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

Cloudy2Clear Windows . . . . . . . 17