Clyde Life Magazine april/May 2018

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Clyde Life April/May 2018 Issue 41

A Perfect Picnic p26 Live Events at Waterfront

£5 OFF

Special Offer p2

Spring must be around the corner p24 Delivered to over

15,000 Homes

Skelmorlie Kilmacolm

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Wemyss Bay ■ Inverkip ■ Gourock ■ Greenock ■ Port Glasgow Quarrier’s Village ■ Bridge of Weir ■ Brookfield ■ Houston

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Langbank Bishopton


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Inverclyde’s new independent optician We offer a personalised service that you can trust for all the family, including: • Free NHS-funded Comprehensive and In-Depth Eye Examinations • Retinal Photography • Latest Designer Wear • Great Kids Frames • Repairs & Adjustments • 2 Pairs from £79 including Prescription Sunglasses

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www.clydelife.co.uk | 3 www.clydeviewopticians.co.uk


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“The Case for Legalising Medicinal Cannabis” Ronnie Cowan MP

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Dental Blog

9

“Key Pieces for Spring” Style Files

12

Teen Style Files

13

Stuart McMillan MSP

20

Spring must be around the corner

24

A Perfect Picnic!

26

Local Clubs and Classes

28

The Chartroom’s Smoked Haddock Mac ‘n’ Cheese

30

Contributors this issue: Kieran Gallagher, Joanne Simms, Marilyn Thompson, Holly Thompson. COVER Kilmacolm Show - Murray McMillan Photography

April/May Issue 41 2018 Publisher: Life Magazines & Publications Ltd Editor Charles Briggs

Features Editor: Joanne Simms joanne@clydelife.co.uk Advertising Sales: Lisa Sanderson lisa@clydelife.co.uk

Contact Info: Editorial: 07788-923054 Advertising: 01505-871962 Email: editor@clydelife.co.uk Web: www.clydelife.co.uk Web Design: tspwebdesign.com Graphic Design: Simon Jones - Skep Design simon.jones@skepdesign.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors, or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Life Magazines and Publications Ltd does not officially endorse any advertising material included in this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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The Case for Legalising Medicinal Cannabis I was a child in the 1960s and maybe because of that my perspective of cannabis is one of a leafy plant that when the leaves are dried can be smoked to get high. All sorts of hippy connotations spring to mind. Peace, love and transcendental meditation. In-fact the cannabis plant is a form of the hemp plant and there are many variations available. People have been smoking cannabis recreationally for centuries and for many years people have been smoking cannabis to relieve pain associated with a range of illnesses including Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and certain cancers. This has blurred the lines between recreational and medicinal use. I want to concentrate on medicinal cannabis. Today throughout the United Kingdom people purchase cannabis based products, oils, sprays and tablets to help alleviate pain. They can be delivered to your door and consumed in the privacy of your own home. There is a legal cannabis-derived prescription drug called Sativex but it is prohibitively expensive and was found to be ‘not sufficiently effective’ by NICE. As a result the drug, administered as a spray under the tongue, isn’t available in England and Scotland on the NHS. But because cannabis is registered as a class B drug under the misuse of drugs

act 1971 in the United Kingdom, people buying it or using it are breaking the law and are liable to be prosecuted. The result is that they purchase and consume a product that is not regulated for safety or effectiveness. The outcome can’t be predicted and the cost is entirely at the seller’s discretion. Medicinal cannabis is legal in parts of USA, Canada, France, Germany, and many other countries. The laws and application of these laws vary but the premise is the same, medicinal cannabis provides effective help for people who are suffering. Making it legal is a humane thing to do. In the United Kingdom there have been some high profile cases where legal cannabis has been sought via permission from the Home Office. Cases including Billy Caldwell and Alfie Dingley. In both these cases young children were suffering seizures which were damaging them. The quantity and severity of these seizures were dramatically decreased through the use of cannabis-derived products. Both families had sought and found such products outside the United Kingdom but could not get access to effective products legally in the United Kingdom. There are thousands of Billy’s and Alfie’s. Each with families struggling to find the correct medicines to ease

Ronnie Cowan MP

the pain of their loved ones, while knowing that a change in the law would accommodate their needs. If we were to legalise cannabis for medicinal purposes it would be assessed for quality and effectiveness, it would be designed or tailored to specific illnesses, it would be regulated and taxed. I am not asking for the law to permit people to grow their own weed just as I don’t advocate people having their own gin production facility in their kitchen. I am asking for a legally regulated business that produces medicine in laboratories from the cannabinoids extracted from commercially grown plants. Each product could be designed for a specific illness and the distribution, prescription and use would be monitored and controlled. The UK Government still maintains there is no therapeutic value attached to medicinal cannabis and yet it grants a licence to British Sugar to grow it and provide the raw product to pharmaceutical companies. The UK Government can no longer continue to ride two horses either it’s effective in which case it must be legalised or it’s not in which case we shouldn’t be growing it and selling it to pharmaceutical companies.

Ronnie Cowan MP, Member of Parliament for Inverclyde, 20 Crawfurd Street, Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 1LJ @clydelifemag ronnie.cowan.mp@parliament.uk Telephone: 01475 721 877

6 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018


advertorial

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Belhaven Blog

Would you like straighter teeth?

Most people naturally associate having orthodontic treatment with tooth extractions and several years of metal braces.

This is a conservative way of improving your smile dramatically compared to other cosmetic treatments such as crowns and veneers.

For adults there is another solution – Short term Orthodontics. This focuses on straightening mainly the front teeth and is suitable for many problems like crowding, crooked or spaced teeth.

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Catherine our principle dentist offers Six Month Smiles(TM) – a system for straightening adult teeth using tooth coloured brackets and wires. This is more discreet than traditional orthodontics and treatment times can vary from 4-10 months (average is 6).

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ADVERTORIAL

St Columba’s truly a centre of excellence Ranked fourth in the Sunday Times league table of top Scottish Independent Secondary Schools in 2017, St Columba’s School in Kilmacolm is renowned for its first class education and academic excellence. With representation on the Scottish Hockey team, the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and the Scottish Debating Team, St Columba’s leads the way both in the classroom and on the field. Our size is also our strength. With around 700 pupils aged 3-18, each child is known by name and recognised as an individual. At St Columba’s each pupil benefits from

a significant academic advantage where their potential is fulfilled with individual attention from our team of specialist teachers. Our beautiful countryside location, within easy reach of Glasgow, and excellent educational experience create a school environment which is challenging and vibrant. It is with dedicated teaching, mentoring and pastoral care that every pupil can aspire to greatness. We offer an extensive extracurricular programme, flexible wraparound care from 7.30am6pm and financial assistance.

With a dedicated coach service covering a wide geographical area St Columba’s School is closer than you think. Our Open Evening provides the perfect opportunity for families to experience the true atmosphere of St Columba’s. The first thing you’ll notice is our warm welcome. Come and visit us and let our pupils show you why we are one of the leading independent schools in Scotland. Make an appointment to visit our Open Evening on Wednesday 25th April from 6-9pm for Senior School and 6-8pm for Junior School. www.st-columbas.org

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theStyle files

by Marilyn Thompson

Key pieces for Spring Here’s what you really need to know about the key trends for Spring 2018 - they are super wearable! This season, the quickest and easiest way to upgrade your look is to incorporate at least one of the following items into your wardrobe. Easy! First up - The Trench Coat - I love

a good trench coat, it’s such a versatile piece of clothing, a stylish and lightweight cover up which is suitable for all circumstances - and this Spring brings us a huge selection to

choose from. There’s plenty of classic styles, but there’s also lots of hybrid styles as well - a mix of fabrics, textures, lengths and more. This really is a purchase you won’t regret.

Pencil Skirts - again, like the trench, the pencil skirt is a clothes classic. Hailing from the 1950’s when femininity was at its peak, the modern pencil skirt is still sexy, but it has a slightly different cut this time round. Sitting higher on the waist and not as body hugging, these skirts are more practical to walk in and come in a wonderful array of fabrics, making them the perfect wardrobe staple. Additionally, they can be worn with every kind of shoe from trainers and kitten heels to stilettos.

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The teen STYLE Files

The colour Lilac - there will be no getting away from this pretty pastel. There’s a shade that will suit almost every complexion and as an added bonus, lilac has a magically softening effect when worn close to the face. A pretty blouse or a slightly oversized sweater with a cute turtle neck is perhaps the best way of wearing Lilac and this colour works incredibly well with grey, black, beige and navy as well as with another spring trend - dark indigo denim. So, there will be no problem finding something to wear with your new pastel purchase. Bum bags/cross body bags - nothing groundbreaking I know but these bags are fabulous. No more lugging around huge tote bags, wasting time rummaging around desperately trying to find your purse in a veritable riptide of old receipts and sweetie wrappers. These compact bags allow you to to be super functional, hands free and on trend. There’s a style for every occasion, sporty to luxe, and you’ll be totally spoiled for choice. At the start I mentioned that any one of these items would work in upgrading your Spring wardrobe, (and that’s true) however, investing in all four key items would result in an amazing top to toe Spring look, and as an added bonus, all the individual items can be easily mixed and matched for ultimate wearability.

Again, Easy!

Clyde Life Magazine

Checks & Mustard

These are two of the key trends which dominated designer Spring/Summer 2018 runways. From folksy ginghams to traditional plaids and bright checks, these patterns are making a convincing case for being Spring’s “it print”. Meanwhile, mustard tones are already infiltrating high street stores so don’t be scared of experimenting with this versatile shade!

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Celebrity Do’s & Don’ts - Mustard Do experiment with different textures Do wear with confidence Do consider which colours are complementary Don’t be afraid of the unusual tone Don’t pair with all black

Your Fashion Questions Answered?

Do - Blake Lively Don’t - Natalie Portman

Q - Hi Holly, I always want to try the mustard coloured outfit trend but don’t think it would suit my skin/hair tone, any ideas? Orla. A - Hi Orla, there are so many different shades to choose between, from darker ochre tones to lighter brighter yellows, so try on multiple options and go from there. What’s more, often just a statement piece, rather than a full head to toe mustard outfit, is all it takes!. H x Get in touch - To learn more about The FASHION Class for teens & children, the courses, camps and Birthday parties, or to tell me what you think and ask any questions, contact: holly@thefashionclass.co.uk or www.thefashionclass.co.uk

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A kitchen and a bl

The new kitchen for Ronnie and Carol’s beautiful home at Inverkip Marina enjoyable projects for the team at Affordable Luxuries.

Ronnie Ford, whose career began as a teacher in Gourock, is an artist of international renown, with his work especially popular in the Far East and featured in many leading contemporary art collections. When Ronnie and Carol, his wife, moved into their new home they decided to replace the bespoke handcrafted kitchen. ‘We prefer a more modern and functional space, full of light, so we decided to move on and contact the team at Affordable Luxuries. The kitchen was designed by David, who is also an ex-student of mine from Gourock High School with Tom project managing the entire installation. They really did design and install our ideal kitchen,’ said Ronnie. The brief for the Affordable Luxuries team was to design a modern contemporary kitchen dining space

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along with the utility room which would provide practical storage solutions. Carol’s love of porcelain and cookery books meant that the kitchen design had to include plenty of storage space, while the overall look was to be one of openness and light which Ronnie and Carol could fill with their favourite pieces. They chose the Pronorm Y-Line range in gloss super white with glass wall panels in gloss super white with light grey wood. For the worktops Affordable Luxuries recommended the Consentino Silestone 30mm quartz range in Alumino Nube, for its aluminium/silver tones with the most subtle mirror sparkle through it. The sink is a Blanco Andano one-and-a-half bowl in stainless steel, paired with a Blanco Menu rinse tap with a pull out hand spray.

A

ince 1999 s s s e n i s u b family @clydelifemag


lank canvas has been one of the most intriguing and

kitchen that is such a pleasure to work in and has created a perfect back drop to celebrate their work and interests. ‘They listened to everything we said, they came up with a great design; a beautifully made kitchen expertly installed by fantastic tradesmen,’ said Ronnie. Carol added: ‘Even now I still smile when I walk into the kitchen every morning. We both enjoy our new kitchen so much.’ The Siemens appliances consist of a single oven, combination oven with microwave and a separate warming drawer. The 70/30 fridge freezer and dishwasher were both integrated and there was a wallmounted extractor hood with a stainless-steel finish over the 90 cm gas hob, which had a built-in wok attachment for Carol’s love of Asian cookery. ‘You need a big cooker hood when cooking with a wok!’ she said. Once Affordable Luxuries’ work was finished, they used the kitchen as a blank canvas for objects the couple collected during their travels and Ronnie’s own art; one painting in the kitchen is a scaled version of a large piece commissioned by an Asian collector with others created especially for the room. The couple are delighted with a

Read the full story and see more photographs at www.affordableluxuries.co.uk 52 - 54 Regent St, Greenock PA15 4NP | Tel: 01475 727774 | www.affordableluxuries.co.uk Clyde Life Magazine

SILESTONE by COSENTINO

S

www.clydelife.co.uk | 17 CORIAN ©


Tony Stockwell

psychic medium

www.tonystockwell.com

The popular star of TV’s 6ixth Sense, Street Psychic, and Psychic Academy, Tony Stockwell demonstrates his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones with detailed messages frequently including names, dates and locations and all delivered with emotion, sensitivity and empathy. The evening may include psychometry, photograph readings and psychic prediction.

Wednesday 29th August 2018 – 7.30pm, The Beacon, Greenock Box office: 01475 723723 • www.beaconartscentre.co.uk

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Stuart McMillan MSP

A busy 1st quarter and the next looks busier It’s hard to believe that it’s almost Easter already, and while I know the saying goes “time flies when you’re having fun”, I truly believe the saying should also go “time flies when you’re getting on with the day job”. This year, a lot of work has passed through the Scottish Parliament: including the ban on electric dog shock collars, the Gender Representation on Public Boards (Scotland) Act and the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act. In Parliament I have spoken on debates, including on Scottish Income Tax, the Continuity Bill and on migration. I also spoke in a Member’s Debate about EU LEADER funding, which both Gourock Golf Club and Ardgowan Distillery in Inverclyde have benefitted from.

Stuart McMillan MSP Member of Scottish Parliament for Greenock & Inverclyde Constituency

26 Grey Place, Greenock PA15 1YF Tel: 01475 720 930 E: stuart.mcmillan.msp@parliament.scot

I have been working on Inverclyde transport issues and recently met with Transport Minister Humza Yousaf to discuss the problems with the train network in the area – particularly the return of the old carriages to the line. I asked him to introduce a discount for local train users who use this old train. I have also again been in contact with SPT to express my frustration with the Gourock to Kilcreggan ferry service. Thankfully Clyde Marine take over the service in June. It has been a busy quarter and I suspect the next quarter will be equally as busy as we get ever closer to leaving the EU.

Open door policy at the office, Monday to Friday, 9am till 5pm. Surgeries: Last Friday of the month

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10am Port Glasgow Library 1pm Gourock Library The costs of this advert have been met from Parliamentary resources.

Inaugural Kip Marina Gin Festival to be held on April 7th at the Chartroom Gin is not a new phenomenon to the UK, the first gin craze took place during the early 18th century when the consumption of gin grew dramatically, especially in London. However, there is no doubt that the UK gin market is bigger now than ever before and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Industry experts have predicted that UK gin sales will exceed Scotch whisky sales by 2020. The number of distilleries in the UK has doubled and Scotland is well and truly at the heart of the current growth with over 70% of the gin produced in the UK being made right here in Scotland. To celebrate Scottish gin, Craft56° is bringing the first ever gin festival to the Chartroom at Kip Marina next month. The festival will feature over 25 gins from some of the newest and most exciting artisan gin makers from across Scotland. There is a gin out there for everyone and there will be a huge variety on offer including traditional London Dry gins as well as some of the newer flavoured gins for you to try. Samples of all the gins will be available and the producers will also be serving up perfect serve gins paired with the recommended mixers and garnishes. Throughout the day there will be opportunities to attend ‘meet the maker’ talks where you can find out more about the stories behind their gins and their brands. 20 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018

Tickets to the Kip Marina Gin Festival cost £20 per person and include: • Goody bag on arrival including a souvenir glass • 3 tokens for ‘perfect serve’ drinks from any of the exhibitors • Samples of over 25 different Scottish craft drinks • Entry to the meet the maker/ masterclass sessions • Entry to live music from 8pm For more information and to buy your tickets visit: kip-marina-gin-festival.eventbrite.co.uk @clydelifemag


Clyde Life Magazine

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SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

IN GREENOCK CONDUCTED BY

DUNCAN WARD

ALISON MITCHELL – FLUTE BRONTË HUDNOTT – FLUTE

FRIDAY 8 JUNE 2018, 7.30PM BEACON ARTS CENTRE, GREENOCK SCHUMANN Overture, Scherzo & Finale PUCCINI Crisantemi CIMAROSA Concerto for 2 Flutes MENDELSSOHN Symphony No 1

Tickets: beaconartscentre.co.uk / 01475 723 723

Core funded by

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SCO.ORG.UK

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If you need us in the middle of the night you will be seen by our vets at our surgery (so you won’t need an anxious trip to Glasgow)

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Spring must be around the corner! If you read my column in the last edition of Clyde Life, you may recall the opening paragraphs were about how cold the winter had been and how unusual it was to see 4”/10cm of snow here at Cardwell Garden Centre in Gourock. Just a few weeks after that article was published, the aptly named ‘Beast from the East’ arrived in Scotland and promptly dumped 12”/30cm of snow on Cardwell! Drifts of well over 2 feet saw both my 8 year old nephew, Sam, and my dog have great fun for a few days. If I am honest, I quite enjoy the snow as well. However, this amount of snow causes massive problems from a pragmatic perspective. We saw the travel network across Scotland grind to a halt and

even witnessed a shortage of basics foods, such as bread and milk, in supermarkets and convenience stores. Even Cardwell closed for a day, and that does not happen very often. Most of the issues Scotland faced during that week were exacerbated by us simply not being accustomed to this extreme weather. Personally, I have never seen snow that deep here, and certainly not the relentless blizzards we experienced. Much like the rest of us, the plants in our garden are not used to the cold, eastern winds and the sheer weight of the snow lying on branches and foliage. Even some of the mature trees around Gourock have been damaged. There is not a lot we gardeners can do during this weather and the advice is to leave things alone until a

Renfrewshire – Spring 2018 Events Spring plant sale - centre of Kilmacolm Saturday 28 April, 10am - 12pm Admission by donation, 60% to Parklea Branching Out Charity. Outside Kilmacolm Library, Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4EL.

Highwood

Sunday 13 May, 2pm - 5pm Admission £5, children free, 60% to Orkidstudio Charity. Woodland walk around 50 acres of beautiful native bluebells in a delightful setting bordering the Green Water river with tumbling waterfalls. Stout waterproof footwear is essential as paths can be muddy. Dogs welcome on a lead. Fantastic opportunities for lovers of wild flowers and photography. Off Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4TA.

Barshaw Park Walled Garden

Saturday 19 May, 2pm - 4pm Admission £3, children free. 60% to The Friends of Barshaw Park. The old walled garden, has been adopted by ‘Friends of Barshaw’, volunteers, working to bring it back to its formal glory. Designated a Peace Garden, it contains borders of colour and interest all year round, from bulbs to perennials and glorious bushes. 176A Glasgow Road, Paisley PA1 3LT.

Carruth

Sunday 27 May, 2pm - 5pm Admission £4, children free. 60% to Marie Curie: Renfrewshire. Over 20 acres of long established rhododendrons, woodland with good bluebells, young arboretum and lawn gardens in lovely landscaped setting. Bridge of Weir PA11 3SG.

More information about the Renfrewshire District Gardens on the website www.scotlandsgardens.org

24 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018

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thaw. Only then can you assess your plants and trees for damage. Most mature trees and shrubs will have suffered only minor damage and will recover naturally once the spring and summer growing season gets underway. It is the same for lawns, they are quite weather resistant and can quickly recover under the right conditions, but avoid walking on the lawn when the soil is drenched. Some hedges, particularly box, will take longer to recover their shape and some TLC and trimming will be required. Other hedges like privet, leylandii and laurel will quickly recover within a year. A lot of our customers at Cardwell have asked us what to do about spring flowering bulbs which they have planted prior to the ice and snow. Most bulbs, or corms, will be absolutely fine and will grow as normal once the soil warms up. The soil, and even the snow itself, acts as insulation for the bulb. If they do not flower this year, they should return to normal next year.

and greenhouses that should be tackled soon. As for spring and summer bedding plants, any you purchase now should be kept frost free and protected from cold winds. Remember, April can still be a frosty month and even May can have cold nights. As I write this article in mid March, the next cold snap is due to strike over the coming weekend. The Met Office is predicting less disruptive weather this time, with more cold weather and wind than snow. By the time you read this you will know if they are right, or not. I hope they are right and spring comes soon. By Kieran Gallagher Cardwell Garden Centre

Daffodils at Cardwell that stated to grow just before the cold snap have mostly recovered and many have even flowered. Snowdrops, as well, have flowered generously and provided a much needed burst of colour to an otherwise bleak landscape. In the garden centre itself, we have an abundance of colourful plants that are able to withstand the cold nights and winds. Potted spring flowering bulbs and the old favourite primula are proving very popular. Seeds, seed potatoes and onion sets are best bought now in preparation for planting and there is plenty of preparation of borders, planters

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 25


Picnic Power! Be it a can of Irn-Bru and a packet of crisps or a wicker hamper full of delights, food always tastes better eaten out of doors Never underestimate the power of a picnic; they are great fun no matter how old you are. There is something special about a picnic which is ageless. Don’t believe us? Then suggest one to your kids and watch the reaction, or think back to the picnics of your youth.

Where to eat your picnic For a teddy bear’s picnic look no further than taking your toddler into the garden and spreading out a rug but for the rest of us the Clyde area has a spectacular amount of scenery to explore.

They were brilliant weren’t they? The secret is simplicity: have everything ready to eat from the minute it is unwrapped or opened and go for smaller portions. Cut sandwiches and traybake cakes into fingers or two-bite-sized; likewise pick mini sausage rolls, pasties and pork pies, hard-boiled eggs already peeled, samosas and bhajis. Think buffet finger-food but more robust to reduce waste from spills, greedy family dogs and over-excited kids grabbing one of everything but only taking a single bite; no one frowns at second, seventh or ninth helpings on a picnic. The cool-bag from the weekly shop and old ice cream tubs are fine. Don’t bother with paper plates or napkins – a new J-cloth will double for both and can be rinsed out and put to work once home again. When it comes to picnics for grown-ups, don’t try too hard! It should re-visit our childhood; so think comfort or nursery food with a twist. How about gourmet mustard or chutney on the sarnies, flasks of tomato soup but with a slug of Worcestershire sauce or even vodka if not driving; oxtail or Bovril with sherry? Make sandwiches with sourdough or artisan bread, but stick to the smaller-but-lots portions rule. Complete the treats by tracking down a bag of pandrops, soor plooms or flying saucers and watch people smile. If you were bereft at the demise of Callard & Bowser hunt down Champion and Reeves’ nougat and butterscotch. At posh events - think outdoor opera and drama - just go for it! You can cheat by hiding said supermarket cool bag and tubs in a wicker hamper or basket and score some shabby chic-style points by replacing the J-cloths with matching checked tea towels and drinking out of jamjars or mason jars. Go for a more sophisticated mix of the finger food rule because who wants to be bothered with plates and cutlery.

Lunderston Bay is the nearest, award-winning, sandy beach to Glasgow; eating a picnic with sand in the sandwiches is an essential part of being a kid. Be urban explorers and take the Heritage Inverclyde Coastal Trail or explore the Greenock Town Trail; there are plenty of spots for a picnic along the way. Muirshiel was made for picnics, as were Greenock Cut, Castle Semple, Locherwood, and Dalry Moor. Work up an appetite by walking or cycling or just sit back and enjoy the Gourock Highlands Games at Battery Park on Sunday May 13.

Mini champagne and wine bottles, premixed cans or individual Perrier bottles with (non-plastic) straws look far cooler than plastic glasses. And remember that these are all Scottish picnics and there should always be Irn-Bru.

By Joanne Simms

26 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018

@clydelifemag


OUTDOOR LIVING AT CARDWELL Saigon Lounge Set RRP £1299

Our Price £1139 NEW RANGES FOR 2018

Saigon Egg Chair

Saigon Dining Set

RRP £349

RRP £1608

Our Price £300

Our Price £1339

Plus everything you need to create the perfect outdoor space including a wide range of Garden furniture, BBQs, chimeneas and lighting.

Lunderston Bay, Gourock, Inverclyde, PA19 1BB Clyde Life Magazine www.clydelife.co.uk | 27 01475 521 536 www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk


CLASSES | GROUPS | AND LOCAL CLUBS Clyde Life publishes details of classes, groups and clubs located within the magazine distribution area. If you are looking for new members or want to publicise an event please let us know.

To be included in the magazine and on the website please send details to charles@clydelife.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing Classes Class Time Location Day Teacher/Instructor Yogabellies Children’s Yoga 3-12yrs Yoga & Meditation 7pm-8:30pm Boglestone CC Wed Jacci Stoyle Yoga 2pm-3:30pm Westburn Church Mon & Tue Aileen Hughes Yoga 7:45pm-9:15pm Greenock Tue Patricia Ralston Hatha Yoga 7pm-8pm Lyle Kirk Wed Flora MacKenzie Hatha Yoga - Beginners 8pm-9pm Lyle Kirk Wed Flora MacKenzie Hatha Yoga 2pm-3pm Inverkip CC Thu Flora MacKenzie Birsay Yoga 9:15am Gourock Tue Joanna Ritchie 7:30pm Gourock Tue & Thu Joanna Ritchie 7:45pm Inverkip Wed Joanna Ritchie 7:00pm Skelmorlie Mon Joanna Ritchie 8:45am Skelmorlie Sat Joanna Ritchie 9:15am Largs Thu Joanna Ritchie 9:30am Largs Sat Joanna Ritchie Yoga – Mixed Ability Class 10:30am Gourock – Bath St Mon Sheena Arlow 10:00am Gourock – Bath St Wed Sheena Arlow 6:45pm Greenock – Nelson St Wed Sheena Arlow Scaravelli inspired Yoga 7:30pm-9:00pm Branchton CC Tue Rachel Harper Tai Chi 10:30am-11:30am Branchton CC Fri David Kendal Yoga 9:30am-10:30am Kilmacolm Tue & Fri Jacqueline Gibson Yoga 10am-11:30am Bridge of Weir Tue & Thu Sara Marijuan-Tuck 7:00:8:30pm Bridge of Weir Thu Sara Marijuan-Tuck Antenatal Yoga 6:15-7:45pm Bridge of Weir Thu Janis Green General Yoga 8:00-9:15pm Bridge of Weir Mon Janis Green General Yoga 10am - 11am Bridge of Weir Mon Janis Green FABS - Exercises for over 60’s 10:30am Bridge of Weir Tue Fiona Bretherton 2pm Greenock Tue Fiona Bretherton 2pm Kilbarchan Thu Fiona Bretherton Pilates 6:15pm-7:15pm Houston Mon Kate Black

Contact Details 01475 745552/744404 077902 62124 01475 801613 01475 785685 fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 07518 373 073 sheenaarlow@gmail.com sheenaarlow@gmail.com sheenaarlow@gmail.com 01475 638481 01475 638481 07851 735357 07962 347950 07962 347950 07748 150001 07748 150001 07748 150001 07811 766672 07811 766672 07811 766672 katiescotts@hotmail.com

Dance Classes Elite Academy of Dance Ballet Silver Swans Ballet (over 50s) 11am-12pm Royal Scottish Country Dance Society 8pm-9:45pm

Greenock Greenock Laird Street, Greenock

Every Day Tue & Thu Mon Joan Pow

www.eliteacademyofdance.co.uk www.silverswansballet.co.uk 07834 553604

Camera Clubs Digital Camera Club 7:30pm Langbank Greenock Camera Club 7:30pm Greenock Kilmacolm Camera Club 7:30pm Kilmacolm Inverclyde Camera Club 7:30pm Gourock

2nd & 4th Mon of the month Thur Tue Fri

Derrick McPherson Langbankcc1@gmail.com Heather Sinclair 07903 164227 David Walker 01505 873883 Ann-Marie Westwood 07971 607453

Other Clubs & Groups

Greenock Speakers Club 7:30pm - 10pm Ardgowan Club, Greenock Thur (Oct-Mar) Tony Cowden 01475 783228 MS Activities Group 11am-1pm Greenock Thu Stuart Anderson 01475 630553 Parkinson’s Inverclyde Support Group 12:30-2:30pm Greenock Last Fri of month Trish Maclennan 01475 743679 Fort Matilda Bridge Club 7pm Gourock Mon The Tuecosts Fri of this Annadvert MacLeod 01475 522181 resources. have been met from Parliamentary Inverclyde Sky Watchers 3pm-5pm Greenock Mon Marion 01475 634976 Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Games Society Bridge of Weir Every 2nd Thu Keith 07789 501605 Inverclyde Ramblers Dave Souza 01475 631654

28 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018

@clydelifemag


Help is at Hand as your Life changes Woodside Care Home is a 19 bedroom Residential Home situated in the beautiful conservation village of Quarriers, just outside Bridge of Weir. Visitors are always made welcome. The Home is registered with The Care Inspectorate for the regulation of care. • • • •

Residential Elderly Long Stay Short Stay Convalescent Respite

To request a brochure or to arrange a visit please contact the manager

Fiona Summers ~ 01505 613370 Exclusive Gift Shop, Bridge of Weir The Lion’s Paw Gift shop in Bridge of Weir has a large selection of interesting and unusual gifts for your family or friends or a little treat for yourself - Birthdays, Anniversaries, new babies, holidays, house warmings - we will have something for you! Our shop is opposite Gibb Stuart and is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm. Open Sundays from 12-4pm. Come in and see us!

Be

Newcomst er Th

e Grea Gif t Reta ts iler Awards 2017

1 Morrison Place, Main Street, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NU T: 01505 614 699 | E: alison@thelionspaw.co.uk | www.thelionspaw.co.uk

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 29


RECIPE

Smoked Haddock Mac ‘n’ Cheese Step one – Something fishy this way comes Poach The smoked haddock in your ½ pint of milk. Once cooked remove fish from the milk and leave to cool and set the milk aside.

Step two – Water water everywhere, so lets all have a drink Bring a pot of water to the boil and add salt (remember good pasta boiling water should be as salty as the sea!) Add pasta and cook to taste.

and beat vigorously whilst adding the remaining milk. Add the cheese and stir until melted and thick.

Step four – Sir Mixalot Flake the smoked haddock into your sauce and add your cooked pasta, mix well and bake in oven until the top is nice and crispy.

Step five – Buon appetito!

Step three – Roux don’t know who your messing with! Grate all your cheddar and parmesan. Dissolve the butter in a pan and add the flour, stir until the mixture forms a smooth paste and leaves the base and sides of the pan clean. Cook for two minutes to cook out the taste of the flour. Pour in roughly 1/5 of the poaching milk and bring to the boil without stirring, then stir until the mixture blends

Ingredients • 2 fillets of undyed smoked haddock • 1/2Pint of milk • 40 grams of plain flour • 40 grams of unsalted butter • 250 grams of Mature cheddar (we use Damn fine cheddar from Dumfries) • 50 grams of Parmesan • 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard • 160 grams Macaroni

30 | Clyde Life – April/May 2018

@clydelifemag


COMING TO BEACON ARTS CENTRE, GREENOCK THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO JEFF LYNNE AND THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA

featuring the Blue Sky Orchestra

SunSUNDAY 08 Apr 2018 8 APRIL 7:30PM

22 JULY 7:30PM Sun SUNDAY 22 Jul 2018 BEACON ARTS CENTRE Rescheduled Date - Tickets Still valid

BEACON ARTS CENTRE

BOX OFFICE: 01475 723723 WWW.BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK

BOX OFFICE: 01475 723723 WWW.BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK *BKG FEES APPLY

Sun 15 Apr 2018

Clyde Life Magazine Box office 01475 723723 SUNDAY 15 APRIL 7:30PM BEACON ARTS CENTRE BOX OFFICE: 01475 723 723

SATURDAY 19 MAY 7:30PM

BEACON ARTS CENTRE Sat 19 May 2018 BOX OFFICE: 01475 723723 WWW.BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK *BKG FEES APPLY

www.clydelife.co.uk | 31 beaconartscentre.co.uk

the-rolling-stones-a1-final-with-bleed.indd 1

21/06/2017 14:28:53


The Scottish Food Market at Kip Marina Sunday 22nd April 11am-4pm

Treat your tastebuds at Kip Marina’s Food Market Whether it’s a sweet tooth you want to satisfy, catch some fine fish or take home some magnificent Scottish meat then join us on Sunday 22nd April between 11am & 4pm.

www.kipmarina.co.uk Satnav postcode PA16 0BF

DOG DAY AFTERNOON Sunday 29th April 12-6pm Our waterside function room is a dog friendly diner for the day! Bring your furry friends and have a fun afternoon at Scotland’s premier marina.

Waterside Weddings @ Scotland’s Premier Marina

Bespoke packages for special days & nights…

01475 520919 • TheChartroom.co.uk 32 | Marina, Clyde Life – April/May 2018PA16 OBF Kip Inverkip,

@clydelifemag


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