Park Life Magazine oct nov 16

Your what’s on guide and advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & surrounding area

FREE Oct / Nov 2016

Book Your Christmas Night Out! Halloween & Guy Fawkes local guide

WIN!

Competitions & Discounts for your local area

20,000

copies covering ALL these local areas!

Bringing your local community together covering: Strathblane • Blanefield • Croftamie • Drymen • Killearn Balfron • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Gartocharn • Fintry • Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Kippen • Gargunnock Thornhill Ruskie • Port of Menteith • Callander • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • Kinlochard • Balloch • Gartmore

Park Life | Business

THE OAK TREE INN Muddy Boots Welcome

A Gift from Loch Lomond A Gift from Loch Lomond is a brand new website that sells Loch Lomond gifts and experiences, including pebble art pictures, whisky, DVD’s, plus Oak Tree and St Mocha vouchers – giftfromlochlomond.co.uk

Loyalty Discount Card

Loyalty Cards

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

If you regularly visit The Oak Tree and St Mocha make sure you pick up one of our loyalty card entry forms.

Collect a stamp each time you visit then once you have six you’ll get a 10% off card for future visits.

Loch Lomond Chocolate We have developed a new range of artisan, handmade, luxury chocolate bars. Loch Lomond Chocolate comes in a variety of different flavours, available in the Village Shop and St Mocha Coffee Shop.

LOCH LOMOND C H O CO L AT E CO.

BRAW IS BACK Balmaha’s Braw Weekend features family entertainment from 11am-5pm on 1st and 2nd October, free entry.

Plus an evening of live music on 1st October entry from 7pm, tickets £5 pay on the door.

Tel: 01360 870357 | Email: info@theoaktreeinn.co.uk

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

2

|

@oaktreebalmaha

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

TheOakTreeInn

OakTreeInn

Park Life | Business

Sailings and events with added sparkle

D

The Steamship Sir Walter Scott is fully wheelchair friendly

• Daily sailings on the steamship Sir Walter Scott • Walking & Cycling on the shores of Loch Katrine • The Brenachoile Restaurant • Katrine Gifts - Souvenirs & Crafts • Katrinewheelz - Cycle hire • Borg Grech Photography FIREWORKS CRUISE & LIVE MUSIC SPECTACULAR - 5th November – Join us onboard the classic steamship Sir Walter Scott for live music from the fabulous Shaky, complimentary burgers and delicious hot dogs from our barbecue, and round off the perfect end to your evening onboard with a spectacular, dazzling fireworks display against the magical surroundings of The Trossachs National Park.

SAIL WITH SANTA - Weekends 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th December – A great experience for both children and adults - join our very popular “Sail with Santa” cruise on the iconic steamship Sir Walter Scott.

Santa and his helpers will spend time with each child and give them a wrapped up present on this festive hour long sail. Adults are not left out as our price also includes a glass of mulled wine for the adults and local Christmas fayre.

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION CRUISE - Sunday 1st & Monday 2nd January 2017 – Come along and enjoy our one hour New Year Celebration Cruise aboard the steamship Sir Walter Scott, and in addition to taking in the magical scenery of Loch Katrine and The Trossachs, we invite you to join us in a complimentary toast to the Auld and New Year with traditional, locally produced black-bun and shortbread whilst listening to live traditional Scottish music.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR THE FULL LIST OF DATES & TIMES OF ALL EVENTS

Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine,

by Callander, Stirling FK17 8HZ | 3 • www.lochkatrine.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk T: 01877 376315/6 • enquiries@lochkatrine.com

Park Life | Business

Open Morning The Principal would like to invite you and your family to join us at our Open Morning on Saturday, 8 October 2016 from 10am until 1pm.

Please confirm your attendance by emailing admissions@lomondschool.com or alternatively call us on 01436 672 476.

“

At Lomond, we pride ourselves on taking an individual approach to the education of each and every pupil.

As well as a strong focus on the traditional academic subjects we provide a broad range of opportunities to ensure that we can support and develop the strengths of every child.

| www.parklifescotland.co.uk 10 4Stafford Street, Helensburgh G84 9JX | Tel 01436 672 476

www.lomondschool.com

“

Johanna Urquhart, Principal

Halloween Events P12

Welcome back to our latest edition of Park Life Magazine.

Its that spooky time of year again and we have all the local listings so you can organise an outing with your little monsters!

Healthy snacks at Halloween and events on pages 12/13 along with firework events.

We love being able to support local charities and events (no charge to have your event in these pages!)

The Park Life Team are gearing up for our yearly event and this year it is with Moon of Drymen at Buchanan Arms Hotel.

Lunch, Dancing, Fashion show, Photo booth and lots of laughter hosted by Edward Reid of Britain’s Got Talent!

We are supporting Robin House and Think Pink Scotland this year and we will have lots of photos of this event and an update in our Christmas edition.

Now sit back enjoy your read and get planning your family outings for the next two months and we will see you back here for Christmas!

The Mackintosh Festival

P59

Contents • Events Useful Numbers ..................................................................... 10 Halloween & Guy Fawkes Events ........................................... 12 International Wheelchair Curling ........................................... 20 What’s On Loch Lomond Shores ........................................... 25 Fitness Classes....................................................................... 27 Cinema Listings ..................................................................... 30 Local Pantos .......................................................................... 31 Park Life Events ................................................................. 34/35 Food & Drink..................................................................... 41-50 Farmers Markets .................................................................... 83 Index ..................................................................................... 84 Gardening Tips ...................................................................... 53 Homes & Interiors ............................................................. 63-69

Competitions!

Macroberts Tickets.................................................................. 35

Katrina, Heather & Lisa

SECC Christmas Fair Tickets .................................................... 17

Crescent Cabs 07710 800067

Nick Nairn Cook School .......................................................... 33

24hr Reliable Taxi service

Wats Interiors Designer Cushions............................................. 69

Park Life Magazine Christmas & New Year 2016/17

ear 2016-17 Christmas & New Y

ertiser for e and adv t’s on guid ing area Your wha s & surround The Trossach

ond,

Loch Lom

FREE

e ping Guid Local Shopntos!

Village Pa ng ni Di ve Festi ions Competit Christmas 2017! for Keep Fit ing Ideas ter Ca Party

20,000

copies covering ALL these local areas!

rn en • Killea amie • Drym hill field • Croft nnock Thorn blane • Blane ior • Kippen • Gargu ore ing: Strath h • Gartm yvie • Arnpr her cover chard • Balloc unity toget • Fintry • Buchl • Aberfoyle • Kinlo local comm Gartocharn rdennan • • Brig O Turk Bringing your aha • Rowa • Kilmahog Balm der • n Callan • Balfro of Menteith Ruskie • Port

Our next edition covers Christmas & New Year, copy deadline is 7th November.

Local Shopping Guide | Village Pantos | Festive Dining Christmas Competitions | Party Catering Ideas Contact Park Life - Get in touch Katrina - Director | e: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07791 976910 t: 01360 550857 Lisa - Sales Director | e: lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07792 066706 t: 01360 550857 Parklife Magazine, Killearn Mill, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LQ www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

|

5

Park Life | Business

Suppliers of Sustainable Scottish Firewood and Woodchip

• Our Woodchip is force dried and is • To ensure consistent quality our screened onsite into various sizes firewood logs are accredited under please contact Anna direct to discuss the Woodsure Plus scheme certified your requirements.

by Hetas.

• Our Firewood logs are available in • woodforfuel.com is a BSL 7, 10, 12, 14, 16 & 20 inch lengths. authorised supplier M. Percy Ltd | Reg No In Scotland SC259981 | VAT No. 836 4836 00 | Old Ballikinrain, Balfron, Glasgow G63 0LL

For more information please visit www.woodforfuel.com, or call Anna on 07824 366321 6

|

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Fuel for thought! BATHROOM

pliers of Sustainable Scottish Firewood and Woodchip

Log production started over 12 years ago to provide fuel for the family home. The Percy family, of Old Ballikinrain near Balfron, used timber from their own woodland in their wood burning stoves and log burning boilers. They soon appreciated the benefit of producing logs that were of sufficient quality to efficiently heat their own home.

This was recognised by the Scottish Stove Centre of Croftamie, who made the installations. They asked if logs could be supplied for use in their showroom and for their customers. A new business that is now known as woodforfuel.com was formed.

Up till now growth has been by word of mouth, (this edition of Park Life contains their first advertisement).

• Equipment Supplied This year the business will process over 1,500 tons of at Trade Prices timber. Firewood processors and drying sheds became • Exclusively Managed larger until last year demand almost exceeded supply.

Installations To increase production two complete heat and power • Respected, Dedicated units have been installed. These units are powered by & Professional Service Our Woodchip is force dried and is • To ensure consistent quality our woodchip andvarious generate all- the electricity andare heat that is under screened onsite into sizes firewood logs accredited • Quality Installation used by the Percy family in their houses and wood yard. please contact Anna direct to discuss the Woodsure Plus scheme certified • References Available your requirements. by Hetas.

A real passion is apparent to achieve the highest quality on Request Our Firewood logs are available in • woodforfuel.com is a BSL of product.

The woodchip and logs are force dried on 7, 10, 12, 14, 16 & 20 inch lengths. authorised supplier • All Work Guaranteed powerful drying floors and in a purpose built kiln. To • Free Survey & Estimate ensure consistent quality woodforfuel.com is one of a handful of suppliers in Scotland that are accredited under Woodsure Plus scheme whichwww.woodforfuel.com, is run by HETAS. The Forthe more information please visit supply of both logs is approved orwoodchip call Annaand on 07824 366321 by the BSL to be used in installations that generate grant income under the RHI scheme.

Logs are available in various lengths and quantities to exactly match customers requirements. Woodchip is available in different sizes and moisture content as it is screened onsite.

The contact for woodforfuel.com customers is Anna, who by some is referred to as the Log Lady! Anna’s husband Gordon also works in the business along with brother Chris and parents Melvyn and Amelia.

TRANSFORMATIONS

To arrange a FREE ESTIMATE please contact Stephen Melvin

01360 771952 | 07887 711 165

E: bathroomtransformations@btconnect.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

|

7

Park Life | Business

Andrew Anderson & Sons Funeral Directors Est. 1969 We are proud to offer a 24 hour caring and professional service to the local community We are pleased to offer Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans “Creating peace of mind for you and your family” A wide range of memorial stones are available.

We can also clean and add further inscription to existing family memorials.

For all enquiries Callander Tel: 01877 330398 • Balfron Tel: 01360 441023

“Stand sure we will look after you & your family” Funeral Home, Glenartney Road, Callander, FK17 8EB & 64 Buchanan Street, Balfron G63 0TW

Email: info@anderson-funerals.co.uk • www.anderson-funerals.co.uk

GBS GBS

ALL TRADES SUPPLIED

JOINERY GENERAL BUILDER

0141 250 7461 01360 550 344

JOINERY GENERAL BUILDER

JOINERY GENERAL BUILDER

GBS

ALL TRADES SUPPLIED

Email: gbuildingservices@icloud.com 0141 250 7461 01360 550 344

Email: gbuildingservices@icloud.com

ALL TRADES SUPPLIED

JOINERY GENERAL BUILDER

Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation GBS Building Conversions • Renovations • Extensions New Build • Plumbing and Electrical • Insurance Work Free Estimates GBS

ALL TRADES SUPPLIED

Email: gbuildingservices@icloud.com

0141 250 7461 01360 550 344

E: gbuildingservices@icloud.com | Tel: 01360 550344 | 0141 250 7461 8

|

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

CONSERVATORY ROOF CONVERSIONS • A new super lightweight tiled roof • Variety of tile colours available • Fully Insulated • “U” Value of 0.15

Providing you with a conservatory for all year round use

• Extensions • Attic Conversions • Fitted Kitchens & Bathrooms • Windows & Doors Replaced • Full Roofing Service • Timber Decking • Hardwood Floors • Design & Drawing Service • All Property Maintenance Undertaken For free advice and quotations call Lorne on: 07763 790838 or 01360 771351 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

|

9

Park Life | Business

OFFICE SPACE TO RENT Newly refurbished in Buchlyvie Parking Tea & Coffee making facilities

£175 per month + vat

Call Tim for more details on

07960 858758

· Oil Heating Engineers · AGAs, Rayburns & Boilers · Central Heating & Hot Water

A family business based in Thornhill Stirlingshire, covering Stirling, Perthshire, Fife, Kinross, Clacks, Lothian, Lanark, Dumbarton and more...

tel: 01786 599771 / 07398 510771

email: contact@yourheating.co.uk

David Mcleod JOINERY

kitchens . bathrooms . conversions . extensions Kitchens supplied & fitted • Bathrooms supplied & fitted Flooring • Fitted wardrobes made to measure • Conversions All joinery including bespoke items • Dormer windows • Velux windows Doors & windows • Ceramic Tiling We have over 20 years experience in the local area.

Please call David on 07799 405172/01360 771543 for a no obligation quote. Email: dmjoineryltd@hotmail.co.uk 10 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

WINDOW CLEANING GUTTER O20FF% CLEARING PRESSURE15% WASHING OFF PHONE NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE

C ‫פ‬ʦ & s d ...

20% COavrepne&t

OFF

01436 679994 www.nightanddaycleaning.co.uk

0800 328 0701

Cleaning Commercial & Domestic Cleaners

spkcleaning.co.uk

Park Life Useful Numbers Police Non-Emergency 101 Police Emergency 999 or 112 Scottish Water 0800 0778778 Scottish Power 0800 0270072 Stirling Council 08452 777000 Libraries Strathblane 01360 770737 Drymen 01360 660751 Balfron 01360 440407 Callander 01877 331544 Balloch 01389 608989 Schools covered by Park Life Magazine Aberfoyle 01877 382278 Balfron High 01360 440469 Balfron 01360 440027 Buchanan 01360 870215 Buchlyvie 01360 850311 Callander 01877 331576 Drymen 01360 660410 Fintry 01360 860204

Gartmore 01877 382343 Gargunnock 01786 860291 Killearn 01360 550430 Kippen 01786 870373 Mclaren High 01877 330156 Port of Menteith 01877 385225 Strathblane 01360 770608 Thornhill 01786 850207 Balfron Tip opening times Mon-Fri 5pm-8pm Sat 10-2pm Health Centres Drymen 01360 660203 Kippen 01360 850237 Balfron 01360 440515 Aberfoyle 01877382421 Callander 01877 331000 Killearn 01360 550339 Dentist Drymen 01360 661097 NHS 24 Helpline 111

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 11

Halloween Frights!

Park Life | Business

Mudgock Country Park

FIZZGIG THEATRE FRIGHT NIGHTS 27th/28th/29th/30th/31st Oct (various evening slots available) Mugdock Country Park (aged 12 and over) They are back! “Boys and girls come out to play, the moon is shining bright as day”…

Nursery Rhymes are about to become your worst nightmare. Only for the brave!

HALLOWEEN FUN WITH FIZZGIG! 27th/28th/29th/30th/31st Oct (various evening slots available) Mugdock Country Park (aged 12 and over) They are back! “Boys and girls come out to play, the moon is shining bright as day”…

Nursery Rhymes are about to become your worst nightmare. Only for the brave!

Loch Lomond Shores

THE WALKING THEATRE CO PRESENTS: WITCHY WALK. SEE PAGE 25 28th Oct. The popular Witchy Walk returns to Loch Lomond Shores for two shows. Dress in your Halloween best and join The Walking Theatre Co for an interactive walking theatre in the woods. Booking required; tickets available via itison.com. 5pm & 7:15pm.

Tir na nOg Holistic Centre

2016 p

HAUNTED HALLOWEEN WOODS 27th - 30th Oct. Traditional games and activities, and haunted woodland walks to get in the Halloween spirit.

Soup Dragon cafe open late too.

Check www.tirnanog.co.uk or call 01360 449300.

Balfunning, Balfron Station, By Glasgow G63 0NF

Fireworks Nights!

The Glebe Killearn

Fri 4th Nov 7.30 Bonfire/8pm Fireworks Display Gates Open &7.30

Fireworks at The Rowardennan Hotel Sat 5th Nov 7.30pm In Aid of MacMillans Cancer Research £5 door entry to charity Free cup of soup/bread 12 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

orks w e r i F uise Cr usic em & Livctaculaerr! spe5th Novemg 3b See p

icki

ng da Fri 14 te Fri 21 -Sun16 Oc s - Sun t Sat 2 23 Oct Sun 3 9 & 0 Oct

le!

Ha p

n! ee

all o w H py

A

he ib s alth s y feast? It is po Try these alternative treats and snacks that are sure to be a hit with all your little monsters!

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 13

Park Life | Kids/Activities

visit us razzamataz.co.uk

TRY SOMETHING NEW TODAY...

• Afterschool pony club • Horse share opportunity • Adult lessons weekdays • Horsemanship workshops led by Johnnie Smith • Horse management sessions (evenings and weekdays) • Segways in the shed 1/2 hr sessions of indoor challenges (age & weight restrictions apply) • Segway parties (as above) • Children`s pony parties • Gift Vouchers available www.castlerednock.com Email rednocktrekking@yahoo.com

We are the ideal place for boys and girls age 4-18 with an interest in performing, to learn Pop Singing, Street Dance, Musical Theatre & Drama!

NOW ENROLLING! For further details contact: Mark Long E: balfron@razzamataz.co.uk

Tel: 0141 576 4569 / 07715 301841

Tel: 01877 385276 | 07801 699497

A great day out - you’ll be amazed at what you can do!

GREAT SCOTTISH CHEF WEEKEND Book now for our Great Scottish Chef Weekend, 11-13 November, featuring 3 of Scotland’s best chefs at the Cook School, plus Nick and Paul Rankin as hosts.

PRIVATE HIRE Need a space for a meeting, team building session or event? Contact us about hiring the Cook School.

Visit www.nicknairn.com for Gift Cards, Cook School Classes and Nick’s Recipes.

Or call us on 01877 389900.

14 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

BOOK TODAY!

Park Life | Business

A place full of fun, fitness and learning for everyone!

Kiddo brings “Funky Monkey” and offers a new exciting, creative, active and fun programme for nursery school children and infants in primary 1 and 2. The programme is adapted for both age groups and aims at reflecting classroom practice in accordance with principles and purposes of 3-18 and 5-14 curriculums.

Various forms of equipment are used for playful activities utilising sports games, musical instruments and fun props to help merge pupils learning experiences and encourage smooth transitions from the nursery to primary and adapted for progression from these stages.

A happy quirky place to meet and eat!

Italian Aroma Coffee Café open serving refreshments, cakes, soup and rolls, all day breakfast, panini, soup, baked potatoes and toasties. Our specialities are on the blackboard along with our unique stews!

10% savings on food, refreshments and crafts with our Loyalty Card!

Food served every day: Mon-Fir 8am-9pm Sat & Sun 10-7pm

This unique building in a relaxed setting in Bearsden is the perfect place to eat and enjoy the best quality coffee, speciality teas and not forgetting the indulgent hot chocolate! Our head chef has 24 years’ experience, we have an inhouse baker and professional staff can assure that a warm welcome awaits you!

We also offer a wide variety of adult fitness and educational classes for all age groups and interests e.g. kettlebells, boxing classes, craft, knitting, art, drawing, clay, guitar tuition, parent with children duo fitness, new mums fitness regime with crèche, ladies who golf, coffee and much more!

This new café is officially open now. You will find this newly fitted, quirky café in a quiet corner of 204 Milngavie Road, Bearsden G61 3DH and for those who enjoy an outdoor refreshment, the decking area with slate tile landscape and flowerbeds should appeal to you! Inside you can sit by the fireplace with a bowl of homemade soup and choice of breads and sandwich deals. There is also a cake display counter, table and chairs, button chairs, kiddies chairs and high chairs for everyone’s comfort. Have a browse at the individual craft styles available to purchase. For your convenience there are ladies, gents and disabled toilets.

Free customer parking and wheelchair access.

www.kiddoclub.wix.com

www.littlestupotcafe.wix.com

Kiddo brings illustrative and educational images such as in seasons, the human body, environment, numbers, animals, characters etc, where role playing, singing, ball skills and body awareness all combine to encourage building self-esteem throughout every programme.

Please see our timetable for information & bookings or call us today! Various Functions catered for.

202/204 Milngavie Road, Bearsden G61 3DH | Tel:www.parklifescotland.co.uk 0141 237 9040| 15

WINTER ON THE LOCH

Making a Day Out Special at Loch Katrine

The sights and sounds of Winter at Loch Katrine will be more enchanting than ever this year – as the classic steamship Sir Walter Scott sets sail daily from Trossachs Pier until the 1st January 2017, together our ever popular winter events programme of live entertainment, providing a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion, or a truly memorable highlight to a perfect day out.

Visitors can enjoy the combination of the enjoyment of the beautiful winter scenery of Loch Katrine, with a sail on our iconic 116 year old Steamship. Or! why not join us for a “Spectacular Firework Cruise” with rock-n-roll

music provided by “Shaky” on the 5th November; Our traditional “ Sail With Santa Cruise” on the 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th December followed by our popular “New Year Celebration Cruise“ on the 1st January with Iain Barry and his foot-tapping ceilidh band, with a special toast to the New Year.

As the views across the loch slip gently by, visitors can relax and enjoy the fully accessible facilities on board the steamship, including a fully-licensed bar, and comfortable lounges.

The Loch Katrine WInter Cruises are sure to be popular, so advance reservations are recommended, and tickets can be purchased online at www.lochkatrine.com or from the Information Office at Loch Katrine Tel: 01877 376315 or 376316.

FINTRY SPORTS CLUB

Friday Night is Steak Nighytday

Snacks, Breakfasts & Lunches served

JUST RETIRED?

ever

Try our daytime indoor bowling sessions Great Company • Great Sport • Great Facilities!

JOIN NOW! See website for details.

A charity providing sports and recreation facilities in West Stirling. SC001505

Tel: 01360 860205 16 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.fintrysportsclub.co.uk

GLASGOW CHRISTMAS FAIR SECC 17-20 NOVEMBER

The Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair is back at SECC, Glasgow from 17 – 20 November 2016.

This annual celebration of all things festive, viewed as the official start of Christmas by many loyal visitors, is a must for anyone who enjoys a great day’s shopping.

We have 10 pairs of tickets for this fabulously festive show to be won. If you don’t win you can purchase tickets saving 10% on the full price by visiting www.countrylivingfair.com/glasgow and enter the code CL16G1.

Over 300 of the UK’s finest craftsmen and women will gather together under one roof to offer unique gifts, inspired ideas and decorations which will bring that magical Christmas sparkle to every home.

Our lucky winners can source beautiful decorations and original gifts from gorgeous garlands and beautiful baubles, to glassware, scented candles and stylish cards.

Arts and craft lovers can pick up haberdashery, ribbons, fabrics, sewing kits and craft essentials - everything required to get seriously creative this Christmas.

For the foodies the temptations and treats are endless from the exclusive collection of food exhibitors supplying authentic regional delicacies such as gourmet sausages and hams, local cheeses and pâté, Christmas cakes, puddings and chocolates, to create a delicious festive deli.

The Fair is the ideal place to find that elusive Christmas outfit with a stunning collection of evening and designer daywear available, as well as unique accessories including bags, purses and jewellery. There will be gifts galore

for the kids including handmade traditional wooden toys, beautifully-made soft toys, chunky knitwear, cosy pyjamas, pretty party dresses, bright wellies and hundreds of other items ready to be wrapped and placed under the tree this Christmas. And there will be some funky socks for dad.

The Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair is more than an exclusive shopping experience. There are lots of things to do and try with free entry to three informative theatres where experts will offer invaluable advice and entertaining demonstrations.

• The sights and smells of the Cookery Theatre will delight and inspire as top Scottish chefs demonstrate preparing tempting seasonal dishes, using delicious, fresh ingredients. Visitors can pick up professional tips to help them create the perfect festive feast.

• The Christmas Theatre experts will offer advice on how to make the most of your home over the festive period, with a series of talks and demonstrations including designing unique table settings and creating home-made goodies for a Christmas hamper. There will also be giftwrapping demos tackling the most awkward shaped gifts.

• Over in the Craft and Create Room hands-on workshops will be held where visitors can work alongside expert knitters, stitchers and upcyclers to create their own festive masterpiece. This is the perfect place to pick up a new skill or hobby.

• Champagne Bar - The perfect day out wouldn’t be complete without a relaxing glass of fizz. This is a great place to review your purchases, plan the rest of the day’s shopping or just relax with a glass of Champagne.

Win tickets to Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair!

10 Pairs of Tickets to be won To enter the competition just visit

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

For further information or to book tickets call 0844 581 1385 or visit www.countrylivingfair.com/glasgow/ticket-options/

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 17

Woodland Light Experience

TRANSITIONS After the huge success of last year, our local Woodland Light Experience is gearing up for another tantalizing extravaganza of light and magic deep within the dark autumnal woodland at Balfron Station.

Partnering again with awardwinning NL Productions - boasting an impressive portfolio of famous events– plans are afoot for a light show that focuses on change and transformation.

This year the light show is TRANSITIONS, and the paths, conifers and broadleaves will provide the stunning backdrop to creative lighting effects and stunning displays. There will be an unfolding and a feeling of change as the walk progresses, with a breathtaking area of light and music around a viewing platform at the water feature. Despite atrocious weather conditions in 2015, the Woodland Light Experience had visitors from

all over Scotland and received rave reviews, and Transitions looks set to follow and build on that trend: “Although the weather was against us we still had a great time! The light shows were fab, and the rain and wind did actually make them better!

All the staff are friendly, upbeat and helpful - even though they were outside for hours in the dreadful weather conditions - and a warm drink and hotdog hit the spot too!

Would highly recommend - keep up the good work and hopefully see you again soon!”

Located next to the immensely popular Woodland Santa Experience and Woodland Fairy Trail, the light show is totally new this year and will lead guests through a changed network of pathways set amongst the trees, enchanting and suffused with creative lighting effects.

Suitable for the entire family, both adults and children will be in awe of the beautiful lighting effects, dazzling projections and the extremely atmospheric water display featuring light, music and water.

The trail will offer a small glimpse of the Woodland Fairy Trail, and kids might want to keep an eye out for the Woodlanders who live within the woods, but the stunning visuals and lighting will transfix everyone, from the youngest to the oldest within the group. The route is clearly marked and there are local groups involved to guide visitors every evening.

Award-winning local butcher Skinner of Kippen will be serving melt-inthe-mouth meat pies and other tasty treats at the covered reception area, and hot drinks will be available.

There is a large area for on-site, supervised parking, which makes the attraction accessible for most.

TRANSITIONS will run from the 4th - 20th November 2016, and tickets are available to buy online www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk Keep an eye on the Facebook page for an opportunity to win tickets!

18 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk parklifescotland.co.uk

Joanna Blythman

Transitions

Park Life | Business

Woodland Light Experience

Open 4th – 20th November 2016 Central Scotland location 30mins from Glasgow/Stirling, 1 hour from Edinburgh Free parking on site

Book Now! • Spectacular sound and light show in natural woodland setting • Produced by award winning NL Productions • Hot food available from award winning Skinner of Kippen

Tickets must be booked in advance.

Peak: Adults £14, Children £7, Under 3's FREE Family Ticket £40 Off Peak: Adults £12, Children £6, Under 3's FREE Family Ticket £34 Pushchair & wheelchair accessible.

Book Online at www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk or call 01360 752052 North Ballochruin Farm, Balfron Station - Find us at: SATNAV - G63 0LE

www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 19

of the entries are ranked in the world’s top ten and two are just outside that mark. The four-semi final teams from the 2016 world championship, including Russia, winners of that event and the team they beat in that final, Norway.

International Wheelchair Curling World champion and Paralympics wheelchair curlers head to Stirling in October.

From 18 to 21 October 2016 Stirling will creak at the seams as ten of the world’s best international Wheelchair Curling teams come to town. The Stirling Wheelchair Curling International Invitation (SWCII) will be held at The Peak, Stirling. This is the third year SWCII has hosted the event and the second year it has taken place in Stirling.

Over the three years, it has grown in reputation and popularity.

Demand to participate has been unprecedented and a decision to increase the entry by two teams was taken.

There will therefore be ten teams representing the cream of world curling battling it out for the SWCII trophy.

I do not use the term, cream of world curling, lightly. Six

20 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Russia is also present holders of the silver medal from the 2014 Paralympics. Present holders of the SWCII trophy, Norway, are back to defend their trophy and go for three in a row. The full line up is as follows: Russia, Korea, Switzerland, Norway, USA (1 and 2), Czech Republic, Finland and Scotland (1 and 2).

That represents a seriously top level entry of world curling and a serious accolade to the organizers in attracting such competition. Incidentally it will also and good practice for these teams and the Peak as the world wheelchair curling championships heads for Stirling in 2019.

Notice to local wheelchair users who would like to try this great sport and who knows, aspire to be a world champion.

Your opportunity is during the curling season, September until March most Wednesdays at the Peak, Stirling from 12.30 - 2.30. We welcome anyone that uses a wheelchair at some point in their daily life, so that encompass a wide variety of disabilities, including spinal injuries, M.S. amputees and stroke victims. New curlers will be assured of a warm welcome at any of our sessions but there is a specific Try Curling on Wednesday 5th October, 12.30 -2.30. Please contact Jacky McLaren, secretary Stirling Wheelchair Curling Club, jackymclaren@talktalk.net for more information.

Park Life | Business

Stylish women’s clothing, accessories and much more, including a wide selection of bags, jewellery, hosiery and scarves.

Moon

Jewellery by Orli and Envy

of Drymen

Beautiful new Autumn /Winter collections from Joules, YaYa, Robell and many more plus Great Christmas gift ideas!

Gift vouchers available

Winter opening hours: 1st November - 1st April Closed Sun & Mon. Open Tues to Sat 10am - 5pm

Main Street, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0BG tel: 01360 660523

Open 7 days a week

T: 01786 473696 E: info@iangallacher.com W: www.iangallacher.com FOLLOW US ON

Leading the way in Diamonds Monday to Saturday 0845 - 1700 7 Murray Place, Stirling FK8 1DQ

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 21

Park Life | Business

O R K N E Y

D E S I G N E R

J E W E L L E R Y

As the autumn wind begins to blow and ocean waves turn and flow Sheila Fleet introduces her new Swirl ring created in 9ct white gold with a handset diamond and tanzanite to join her enduringly popular three tone gold Tidal and Pentland collections.

Sheila specialises in collection sets and made-to-measure rings. Her designer rings are made in yellow, white and rose gold, palladium and platinum. Pictured below is her diamond Princess ringset in 9ct yellow gold.

Janice and her team will be delighted to assist you and to size your finger for a made-to-measure ring, crafted specially for you in the Orkney Workshop.

A warm welcome awaits you at Sheila Fleet in Loch Lomond Shores.

LO C H LO M O N D S H O R E S | BA L LO C H

01389 722 212 | sheilafleet.com 22 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Designed & Made in Orkney, Scotland

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 23

Park Life | Business

Handmade kitchens & furniture from local hardwoods

You can find Dovetail Scotland’s workshop and The Family Tree Art Gallery nestled at the base of Stronend in the Fintry hills. They are both set within a large yard with ample parking just 1.5miles outside of Fintry on the Kippen road.

Dovetail Scotland is a family business which has been established for over 15 years. It offers a unique one to one service to create beautiful, bespoke handmade kitchens, furniture, heavy timber frame structures, fire surrounds and mantles, all from locally sourced Scottish hardwoods.

Dovetail Scotland is o w n e d by Steve Mclean and is situated next door to The Family Tree Art Gallery which is run by his daughter and artist Rebecca Mclean.

The Family Tree Art Gallery opened in June 2015. Over the last year we have been exhibiting artwork by a selection of talented and exciting up and coming artists. We strive to create a comfortable and homely environment from which people can view and purchase original and affordable artwork to suit their home and specifications without any pressure. We hold various exhibitions throughout the year, including our popular handmade furniture exhibition. We also hold a Christmas night with various stall holders, lots of Christmas gifts, mulled wine and affordable artwork.

So stop in and have a look, you might be surprised by what is on offer right on your doorstep.

Visit www.thefamilytreeartgallery.co.uk to find out more and ‘Like’ our facebook pages for news, events and competitions... dawntilldusk and Dovetail-Scotland

The Family Tree Art Gallery & Gift Shop Thursday, Friday, Saturday Open 11-4.30pm 24 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

LERY GAL

STUDI O

What’s On at Loch Lomond Shores - Oct-Nov OCTOBER 2016

Art at Rhu Sale

1st, 2nd, 29th & 30th Oct 12th & 13th Nov The exceptionally talented artist, Linda Gemmell, will be exhibiting and selling her work at Loch Lomond Shores!

Loch Lomond Shores Farmers Market

2nd & 16th Oct 6th & 20th Nov On the first and third Sunday of every month we welcome the Loch Lomond Farmers’ Market to Loch Lomond Shores! 10am – 4pm.

Kelpie Handmade Craft Sale

8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd & 23rd Oct 5th, 6th, 19th, 20th, 26th & 27th Nov Crafted by Scottish artisan David Belton Kelpie handmade gifts are created from driftwood, whiskey casks and Scottish stormwood.

Animal Man’s Mini Zoo

19th Oct All manner of fluffy creatures, reptiles and creepy crawlies will be on show at this popular mini petting zoo. 12-4pm.

Free activity

Chase from Paw Patrol Look-alike 23rd Oct A Chase from Paw Patrol look-alike will be doing walkabout at Loch

Lomond Shores. Come along and say hello, or have your photo taken with the colourful character. 12:30-3:30pm.

Free activity.

There will be more October school week activities announced on www.lochlomondshores.com soon.

The Walking Theatre Co presents: Witchy Walk

28th Oct The popular Witchy Walk returns to Loch Lomond Shores for two shows.

Dress in your Halloween best and join The Walking Theatre Co for an interactive walking theatre in the woods. Booking required; tickets available via itison.com. 5pm & 7:15pm.

Loch Lomond Shores Artisan Crafts Market

29th & 30th Oct Browse and buy artisan crafts from embroidery and woodwork to paper crafts, pottery and gifts at Loch Lomond Shores! 10am – 5pm.

Winter Light Trail

17th & 18th Nov Get into the festive spirit and experience the magic of the woodlands. Take a tour of the fantastic

Birds of Prey Centre which will be twinkling under a blanket of lights, meet a range of woodland owls and friends then take a stroll along the specially lit festive paths. Advance booking required. More info coming soon at www.lochlomondshores.com

Festive Lights Switch On

20th Nov With live entertainment, a radio roadshow, festive market and tons of ideas for your Christmas presents, it is set to be a brilliant, and free, day out. The full running order will follow, but get this date in your diary now so that you don’t miss out. A brand new experience, Santa’s Enchanted Village will be running each weekend from 20th November. More info will be coming soon on how to book tickets.

Stay tuned to www.lochlomondshores.com.

For all the latest news, events and special offers available at Loch Lomond Shores, visit www.lochlomondshores.com or even better, sign up for our e-news and near miss out on great events near you again! Sign up from the home page of the website.

More than you could ever imagine Shop. Eat. Play.

Open daily from 9.30am Balloch G83 8QL

Free parking 01389 751031

www.lochlomondshores.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 25

Care to make a difference? neglect and abuse, or their parents may have chaotic lives, affected by alcohol or drugs, and be unable to care for them.

Care Visions is one of Scotland’s leading foster care providers and we are looking to recruit new carers across Scotland.

Taking the first steps to becoming a foster carer is a big decision, but it can be one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make.

You don’t need formal qualifications, but you do need some life experience and be willing to participate in our assessment and training programme.

Cathy Jamieson, Managing Director (Fostering & Residential) difference to a young person’s life why not take the first step to becoming a Foster Carer with Care Visions?

Currently there are children and young people across Scotland who need safe, caring homes, with adults who will help them look to a positive future.

We provide an allowance when a child is placed with you and ongoing support from a dedicated Fostering Social Worker. Our Foster Carers can also meet up in local groups, to share ideas and information.

If you are interested and want to talk to one of our team, please call 01786 477810, and we can give you more information on what’s involved. Or email fostering. enquiries@carevisions.co.uk and we can send out an information pack.

Children and young people who need foster carers may have suffered

If you are over 25, have a spare room in your home and want to make a

That first call could be the beginning of a better future for a young person.

Interested in becoming a Foster Carer?

We are looking for people across Scotland who can offer a stable home environment to children who need care and support.

You don’t need formal qualifications as Care Visions provides training and financial support.

• Are you over 25?

• Do you have a spare room?

• Are you able to give a child the support they need?

For an information pack, or to talk to one of our team,

01786 477810 or email fostering.enquiries@carevisions.co.uk www.carevisions.co.uk/fostering please call

26 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Fitness

Class

Village

Day

Time

Contact

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Monday

12.15pm

07759 182236

Thursday

6pm

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

07759 182236

Blanefield

Thursday

9.45am & 8pm

07759 182236

Zumba - Jane Zumba - Jane

Strathblane Strathblane

Saturday Tuesday

10am 07968 968944 9.30am - 10.30am 07968 968944

Zumba - Jane

Killearn

Wednesday

7.45pm

07968 968944

Double O Fit Suitable for all levels of fitness. Olivia on 07712587423 or via Facebook (www.facebook.com/DBLOFIT) Buggy Mums by Double O Fit Kings Park, Stirling Monday 10am - 11am Kippen Village Hall Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm Dunblane Centre Wednesday 9.20am - 10am Blair Drummond Com Hall Thursday 7.30pm - 8.30pm Cheerobics Balfron Mon 8.30pm 07917 541163 10.30am & 8.30pm 07917 541163 Body Revive Dance Central Balfron Tue/Thur Kore Kickboxing

Balfron High School

Mon & Thur 8pm - 9.30pm

Ladies Netball

Balfron High School

Wednesday

8 -9pm

Balfron Gymnastics Club

Balfron High School

Saturday

10.30-5pm balfrongymnastics@mail.com

The Yoga Place – Killearn. Tel: 0782 5392334 Mysore class Yin Restorative Yoga Pilates Mindful Movement Yoga Post - Natal Pilates Mum and Baby Ashtanga Beginner led class Full led Primary Ashtanga Mysore class Pilates Pre-natal yoga Zumba Mysore class Seasonal Vinyasa yoga Beginner Ashtanga Yoga Mindful Movement Yoga Full led primary series Mysore class

Monday Monday Monday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturday

9:30am-11am 6:45pm - 8pm 8:10pm - 9:10pm 10:30am - 11:50am 1:15pm - 2:15pm 6:15pm - 7:25pm 7:30pm - 9pm 9:30am -11am 6:15pm - 7:15pm 1pm - 2.15pm 7.45pm - 9pm 9:30am -11am 1pm-2pm 6.15pm-7.15pm 7:30pm-8:50pm 9:30pm - 11am 8.30am - 10am

Siobhan Adelaide Kirsty Craig Kirsty Siobhan Siobhan Siobhan Iona Siobhan Jane Siobhan Elaine Siobhan Craig Siobhan Siobhan

www.facebook.com/kfitstrathblane Metafit Kfit

Strathblane Village club

Tuesday

7pm - 7.30pm

07766 073675

Kettlercise

Strathblane Village club

Tuesday

7.40pm - 8.30pm

07766 073675

Metafit Kfit

Strathblane Village club

Friday

9.30am

07766 073675

Body Conditioning

Strathblane Village club

Friday

10am

07766 073675

Jacquie Robertson - Email jacquie@beaumontbodys.co.uk Gargunnock Community Hall Thursday 9.30-10.25am Pilates for Beginners Pilates one-one Tuition Stirling Call for details

07813 884202 All Abilities welcome

07711 336075 07711 336075

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 27

Sometimes it’s not the silence that’s golden Park Life | Business

MICROSUCTION WAX REMOVAL AVAILABLE

Excellence in hearing care

Help with hearing Loss of hearing is something that happens to roughly one in five of us at some point in our life. At Clements Hearing Services we have state of the art testing equipment as well the latest hearing aid techonology to get you the best service available on the market.

The most important thing to us is good customer service and it must remain personal...

You get to know us and we get to know you.”

Husband and wife team, Greg and Val Clements have years of experience so give them a call or pop into the shop to see how they can help.

Call us now on 0141 954 6030 538 Crow Rd, Jordanhill, Glasgow | www.parklifescotland.co.uk 28 clementshearingservices.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Sports Massage Therapist & Personal Trainer

• Sports Massage & Rehabilitation • Personal Training lizewing@fsmail.net | T: 07779784191

Sports Massage Personal Training Lumsdaine Halls Therapy Rooms 13 Balfron Road Killearn G63 9NN

Buchanan Arms Leisure Club 23 Main Street Drymen G63 0BQ

Eye Treatments • Waxing Manicure/Pedicure & Gel Nails Swedish Massage Hot Stone Massage Facial Treatments • Spray Tan The Yoga Place, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LQ Charlotte O’Connor T: 07516 665157 E: charlotte@c-beauty.co.uk www.c-beauty.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 29

Cinema Listings Mugdock Cinema Brassed Off Mon 10th Oct7.30pm

The coal mine in a northern English village may be closing, which would also mean the end of the miners’ brass band The Treasure of Sierra Madre Mon 24th Oct 7.30pm Fred Dobbs and Bob Curtin, two Americans searching for work in Mexico, convince an old prospector to help them mine for gold in the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Short Circuit Mon 7th Nov7.30pm The beloved ‘80s hit Short Circuit is resurrected with this Dimension Films remake, which sees the return of Johnny 5, a friendly robot on the run from the military, who want him back to use as a weapon of war.

Move Over Darling Mon 14th Nov 7.30pm After five years lost at sea, a missing wife thought long dead returns just after her husband remarries.

Booking essential 0141 956 6100 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk

Gartmore Community Cinema

Mike Nolan Silent film night, Live accompaniment to Buster Keaton’s Steam Boat Bill Jr. (U) 1st October 2016, 8pm The Revenant (15) 19th November 2016, 8pm Saturday Matinee screenings: (doors open 3.30pm) Ticket costs: Children £1.00 (under 16) / Adult £2.00 Saturday Night Screenings: (doors open 7.30pm) Ticket Costs: Adults £4.00 / Children £2.00 (Under 16) Season Ticket: £20.00 and free entry to ALL films. Tickets available on the door Season tickets available in Gartmore Village shop. www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

Callander Film Society

Spotlight Sat 8 Oct 7.30-9.45 Under the direction of new editor Marty Baron, the Boston Globe’s elite investigative team, known as Spotlight, is tasked with delving into decades’ worth of child-abuse claims against the Catholic Church.

The Revenant Sat 22 Oct 7.30pm – 10.10pm The Revenant is an immersive and visceral cinematic experience extraordinary power of the human spirit.

Room Sat 5 Nov 7.30pm -9.30pm Both highly suspenseful and deeply emotional, Room is a unique and touching exploration of the boundless love between a mother and her child.

Son of Saul Sat 19 Nov 7.30pm – 9.30pm Saul is a Hungarian member of the Sonderkommando, the group of Jewish prisoners isolated from the camp and forced to assist the Nazis in the machinery of large-scale extermination. While working in one of the crematoriums, Saul discovers the body of a boy he takes for his son.

Screening location - St Kessogs, Ancaster Square, Callander, Stirlingshire, FK17 8ED. www.bfi.org.uk

Strathendrick Film Society

Bridge of Spies Fri 7 Oct 7.30pm On the Waterfront Fri 4 Nov Il Postino Fri 18 Nov www.strathfilmsoc.org.uk | www.parklifescotland.co.uk Entry for non members £5 30

KIPPEN PANTO Kippen Village Hall 15th, 16th, 17th Dec 7.30pm Tickets at door or Joyce on 01786870620

FINTRY - JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

Local Pantos!

Thurs 1st Dec - Sat 3rd Dec 7.30pm Thurs 8th Dec - 10th Dec Adults £7.50 Children £5 Matinees on Sat 2pm JACK and the BEANSTALK is Fintry Amateur Dramatic Society’s hilarious Pantomime for this Christmas. FADS has a superb track record of the best laughs, great sets, fantastic music, brilliant costumes and national award winning actors. This year’s panto is written by one of the best, Alan McHugh, who creates pantomimes for top pros like Elaine C Smith. Featuring Dame Daisy, Moo Moo the friendly cow and Fairy Flora among many…. and all set in the long lost village of Strathcreuch.

Tickets from tickets@fintrydrama.org.uk or phone 01360 860078.

Discount for party bookings.

MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE WEANS IN THE WOOD

23rd Nov - 31st Dec. See pg 36

MUGDOCK COUNTRY PARK JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Fri 2nd -27th Dec Booking Essential 0141 956 6100

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 31

Park Life | Kids/Activities

Centre r o it is V t s e r o The Lodge F t October throughou Open daily vember 10am - 4pm a nd N o

What’s on at the Lodge

Follow in Bob the Collie’s footprints around the Waterfall Trail by picking up a quiz sheet in the Lodge. Watch the birds and red squirrels on camera in our Wildlife Room.

Visit the Lodge Visitor Centre to enjoy the view and plan your adventure in the Forest Park.

Light up the Forest - Storybook Wood! Saturday 15th October, 6.30-9pm Cost £7.50 per adult and £5 per child, children under 4 go free. Booking essential.

Call the Lodge on 0300 0676615 or email thelodge@forestry.gsi.gov.uk for more info.

www.forestry.gov.uk/qefp Follow us on

@LodgeAberfoyle

Train - Play - Relax - Compete

McLaren Leisure, Mollands Road Callander, Perthshire, FK17 8JP 01877 330000

Swimming Pool - Sports Hall - Climbing Wall - Fitness Suite - Parties - 3G Pitch Fitness Classes - Soft Play - SQA Courses www.mclarenleisure.co.uk

32 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

SCHROW TIME

Quirky Copper & Wood Sculptures

by Lynne & Jim Schroder

Small gift available at Creative in Callander, larger sculpture at Artisandand Aberfeldy.

For commissions please email: schrotime@btopenworld.com Lenymede, Leny road, Callander FK17 8AJ tel: 07716 740559

www.lynneschroder.co.uk

Lynne Schroder Artist

WIN!

2 Nick Nairn Cook School Gift Cards for 3-hour wit classes Park h worth Mag Life

WIN!

ÂŁ158!

azine

Browse classes on our website www.nicknairn.com or give us a call on 01877 389900.

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 33

Park Life Eve THE 2016

House Folk Scottish Music Festival

10th to 11th November This Celtic music festival is now in its 9th year and takes place in a highly intimate and historic venue over two nights in the wonderful setting of Kinlochard in the Trossachs.

The concerts offer an expo of bagpipe, accordion, strings, fiddle, vocals and flute music fusing traditional and contemporary Scottish styles.

Each night and artists differ from the other but include a blend of great music for everyone with a mix of folk, modern and traditional styles.

Late night jamming session in the stables bar after the Friday 11th concert with artists.

Rover tickets available offering a discounted rate for both nights!

For concert details and tickets please visit

www.scottishmusicfestival.co.uk Or call: 07742 621 907 (booking in advance advisable)

34 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Halloween Events see pg 12 Cinema see pg 30 Local Pantos see pg 31 Loch Lomond Shores Events see pg 25 Callander Jazz & Blues Festival 30th Sept-2nd Oct www.callanderjazz.com

Mackintosh Festival see pg 39 1st -31st Oct

The Rainbows, Brownies & Guides’ Autumn Fayre Sat 1st Oct 11am - 1pm All donations gratefully accepted of jumble (in good condition only please) including toys, books, bric-a-brac and electrical items (no white goods). Other donations for home baking and jar jamboree stalls also required.

No clothes please except for Guide, Rainbow, Brownie uniforms, dancing kit or school uniforms. No videos and no items that will not fit into a car boot.The Scout & Guide Hall, Dumbrock Road, will be open for accepting items on the evenings of Thur 29th Sept 7-9 pm, Fri 30th Sept 7-9 pm and Sat 1st Oct 9-10 am. If you need items uplifted please telephone one of the following: Tish Taylor on 01360770598/07984660551, Karen Kennedy on 07887382325 or Pamela Smith on 07920048510 Thank you for your support.

Ladies Lunch & Fashion Show Park Life Magazine/Moon

Charity Event in aid of Robin House/ Think Pink Scotland Sat 1st Oct Visit Moon of Drymen for Tickets or call Katrina on 07791976910

The Braw Weekend see pg 38 Balamaha Sat 1st & Sun 2nd Oct

Killearn Kirk

The Golden Years Bingo ,tea with homebaking and a raffle night 6th Oct 6.30pm -8pm Adults £4 ,children £2 Everyone is welcome - families will love this traditional game - and it is great fun for all ages .

Peter Rea (550432), Anne O’Neill (550605) , Bob Ballantyne (550310) and Doreen Snedden (550834) Join us for a family friendly game with a chance to win fun prizes.

Gartmore Gigs

New Focus Concert Sat 8th Oct Doors 7:30pm, for 8pm, tickets £12 www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

ents Oct-Nov Lomond School Open Morning Sat 8th Oct 10am-1pm See pg 4

Water Park • Kayaking • Hamster Ball • Canoeing Horse Riding • Fishing • Archery

Country Living Xmas Fair 17th - 20th Nov see pg 17

The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre Light up the Forest – Storybook Wood!

Sat 15th Oct 6.30pm-9pm See pg 32

Gartness Beer Festival

Sat 29th Oct On the Gartacharn Road near Pots of Gartness 24 Scottish beers & ciders, Local butcher 6oz beef burgers, live music and shuttle buses running from local villages Details at www.gartnessbeerfestival.co.uk

Gartmore Gigs The Duncan McCrone Band and Friends Sat 26th Nov 7.30/8pm Ray Laidlaw (Lindisfarne) Chris Stout (Fiddlers’ Bid) Finlay Macdonald (pipes, whistles) Fraser Speirs (Scotland’s top blues harmonica player) Tickets £12. Gartmore Shop, Tel 01877 382214 www.wegottickets.com

Classics at Kippen concert

Kippen Parish Church Sat 12th Nov 7.30pm See pg 33

House Folk Music Festival

Outdoor adventure activities for all ages and abilities Groups • Children Go Country Corporate Groups Group and Fun Days Take advantage of our equipment hire experience, we hire all equipment including Canoe and Bike Hire!

Go Country, Kinlochard, nr Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire FK8 3TL Tel: 01877 387750 0845 6437089 lo-call rate Email: info@gocountry.co.uk www.gocountry.co.uk

Clay Pigeon & Rifle Shooting • Mountain Biking Gorge Walking • Climbing & Abseiling

Win a Family Ticket to

Weans In The Wood!

10th-11th Nov See pg 34

Killearn Kirk jumble sale

Kirk Halls 12th Nov 10am-12pm Where one man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure!

Mark it as a date on your calendar, look out for posters for donating and collecting times . More information is available from Anne O;Neill (550605)

Auction Valuation Day with Anita Manning Balfron Church Mon 14th Nov 10am-3pm

Wonderland Shopping evening

Join Alice in her Winter Wonderland in Balfron for her much anticipated Christmas Shopping Evenings on Tuesday 15 and Thursday 17 November 6-9pm.

There will fabulous drinkies and tasty treats as well as a chance to be the first to see the stunning collection of Christmas decorations and gifts. Also 10% off all stock on the night.

!

WINLife with

Park azine Mag

It really is Christmas all year round at Macrobert Arts Centre and our Panto Extravaganza for 2016 is Weans in the Wood.

Enter our competition for the chance to win a *family ticket (any 4 people).

Find out more about the production: www.macrobertartscentre.org *Subject to availability only for performances between Fri 25 Nov and Sun 4 Dec

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 35

Park Life | Kids/Activities

We’ve got your Christmas entertainment all wrapped up at Macrobert Arts Centre - join us for some Festive Fun!

A fun interactive show for age 5 and under

Green Aspirations Scotland CIC

Bushcraft Birthday Parties

Book Tickets: 01786 466 666 Cumbernauld Theatre & Fish and Game

Why not try something different for your child’s birthday party this year with exciting adventures out in the woods where we offer a variety of bushcraft and fun activities. Our main area is covered overhead with a cosy campfire where the party ends with toasted marshmallows.

Book Tickets:

www.macrobertartscentre.org Tickets: £9.50 / £32 Wee Group Saver

01786 466 666 www.macrobertartscentre.org

Party Activities to choose from:

Craft Workshops

Birthday Parties

Treasure Hunt- Figure out the clues & find the treasure!

Stick Challenge- Build the highest tower with sticks & string Bushcraft Art- make a dream catcher, stick people, mobiles using

woodland treasures

Green woodworking (ages 10 & over- sharp tools) make something cool out of wood!

Den Building- use natural materials in the woods to build a cool den Campfire cooking- Learn how to make cupcakes and bread over a cosy campfire!

Make a bow & arrow- from natural materials found in the woods Make a kite- with sticks and paper and fun decorations!

Fire Lighting - learn different techniques...and putting out!

Wide range of woodland skills & craft workshops in our woodland or we can come to you!

Like Facebook!

Like us on Facebook!

Family Bushcraft Experience

Book us for Events

www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk

Follow us @aspirationgreen info@greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: Twitter!

To book email hello@greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk info@greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk 0141-342-4188 0141-342-4188 www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk Green Scotland All Aspirations photos are our own. CIC is a Company Limited by Guarantee Company No. 442821.

Green Aspirations Scotland is a Community Interest Company Guarantee. Company No. 442821.

All photo’sLimited are ourby own.

Originally from Persia and its bordering lands, the Felted Trellised The fleet of 24 yurts range in size from the Nomadic Tent, or Yurt, has been in existence for over 2,000 years. 2 person, 8 foot in diameter yurt to the Mega 40 footer, which caters to banqueting 150 people. Sale or leasing possibilities create affordable options, particularly for campsites.

Cambusbeg Farm, Callander FK17 8LJ | Email: paul@redkiteyurts.com | Tel: 01877 330 943 36 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Life Changing Approach to Dyslexia

Fiona Macdiarmid - Director

Teacher and former Headteacher, Fiona Macdiarmid – known to many Stirling parents as Centre Director of Stirling’s popular Kip McGrath tuition centre – believes Cellfield, a programme to help people overcome dyslexia and similar processing difficulties, is the most exciting development in education she has

processing difficulties” explains Fiona, “and the benefits are wide ranging; as well as improvements in reading and language, our clients also tell us that Cellfield is life changing because of the positive impact it has on overall confidence and self belief”.

come across during her 30 year career. Developed in Australia, Fiona travelled to New Zealand for her Cellfield training in 2009 and, since then she and her team have helped well over 250 people. “Cellfield’s unique brain plasticity approach helps people break through the barrier to their learning caused by

To find out more, contact Fiona at the Stirling Cellfield centre on 01786 447527 or visit www.cellfield.co.uk

A unique & effective approach to overcoming Dyslexia

Call Cellfield in STIRLING

01786 447 527 info@cellfieldscotland.com

www.cellfielduk.com

Cellfield changes lives...

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 37

Events continued..... Oct-Nov Woodland Light Experience

Killearn Kirk Robert Burns Evening

4th - 20th Nov See pg 18/19

3rd Dec 7.30pm-9.30pm Stuart Cochrane, a native of Ayrshire and curator of Ellisland Farm (which was built by Robert Burns as his family home in1788) is a Burns enthusiast and will give a most interesting talk to open people’s eyes to the real Robert Burns.

Kippen Christmas Market Sat 26th Nov 1-4pm Kippen Village Hall

Gartmore Christmas Fayre

Sat 3rd Dec 2016 9am-4pm www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

Stirling Decorative and Fine Arts Society

Oct 20th 10:45am £7:00 Thurs Lecture: Four great women artists, Pamela Halford Nov 17th 10:45am £7:00 Thurs Lecture: Gillespie Kidd and Coia, Mark Baines (GSA)

An informative, friendly and a sociable evening with wine and a taste of haggis! More information and tickets can be obtained from Richard Drew (4405444), Anne O’Neill (550605), Helen Gee (550831) and Katie Withers (449358).

JOIN THE TEAM FOR A

£8

per ticket

BLOODY GOOD NIGHT...

Stra�endrick Rug� Club’s

PARTY Fintry Sp��ts Club

SATURDAY 22nd OCTOBER | 7.30pm - 1am Ticket includes pie & a pint / cocktail Call Steph 07896 964744 or buy tickets from the club

Live Music • Food & Drink Entertainment Rides • Attractions On The Banks Of Loch Lomond, Behind The Oak Tree Inn, Balmaha

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd October 38 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

EW

OB ES T

PRIZ

OR

F ON

CY

FAN

T&

RST

WO

SS DRE

BES

Headline sponsor

Park Life | Business

Christmas Trees Norway Spruce Lodge Pole Pine Nordman Fir

Come and cut your own tree... make it a family day out!

Noble Fir Cut, Rooted or Potted

...Try a “ Duff ” tree this Christmas!

S & J Duff Ltd, Wester Auchentroig Farm, Buchlyvie, Stirlingshire FK8 3PB OPEN 9am - 6pm throughout December

www.dufftrees.co.uk Tel/Fax: 01360 850404 | Mobile: 07710 579752 | duff@easynet.co.uk Business is Blooming for Bramble & Thyme!

Bramble & Thyme Flowers

Helena Gore Photography

Beautiful, bespoke flowers for weddings and events.

Bramble & Thyme, based in Blairdrummond, is a thriving new business started by Fiona Wallace two years ago.

Bramble & Thyme specialises in providing beautiful flowers for weddings, events and all occasions. Fiona likes to use a combination of locally grown seasonal flowers and flowers from Holland and often supplements these with flowers from her cutting garden. Arrangements are loose and relaxed full of texture and interesting foliage.

Right now, with autumn in the air, berries, rose hips, dahlias and lots of seasonal foliage feature in designs.

Weddings are a large part of Bramble & Thyme’s work from a full blown church and marquee wedding featuring large installations to more intimate celebrations. No event is too small or too large and Fiona will very happily arrange an informal consultation to discuss ideas. If you’d like to talk flowers get in touch or have a look at Bramble & Thyme’s website, FB, Instagram or Pinterest board to get a flavour of Fiona’s work.

E: info@brambleandthymeflowers.com M: 07791292421 www.brambleandthymeflowers.com Based in Blairdrummond

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 39

Park Life | Food & Drink

Delicatessen & Coffee Shop

Soups, Tasty Lunches and Homemade Cakes Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Christmas Hampers Extensive range of Wines, Beers & Ciders Main Street, Kippen FK8 3DN

T: 01786 870077

Take away available WrGifts & Cards apping Se rvice A vailable

www.rhubarblime.com

COFFEE SHOP & ICE CREAM PARLOUR

Artisan Roasted Speciality Coffee • Teas Own brands of Loch Lomond Luxury & Bal-Moo-Ha Ice Creams Lunch Menu • Snacks & Home Baking. www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk - Next to the Oak Tree Inn & Village Shop, Balmaha Facebook.com/StMocha twitter.com/stmochacoffee

40 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

COMPETITIONS! Macroberts Family Panto Tickets pg 35 SECC Christmas Fair Tickets pg 17 2 Nick Nairn Cook School Gift Cards pg 33 Wats Interiors 2 Designer Cushions pg 69

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS ACCESSORIES • CARDS • COFFEE SHOP

16 BALFRON RD, KILLEARN G63 9NJ • T: 01360 550830

LIGHT LUNCHES & FABULOUS BAKING ALL HOMEMADE • OPEN 7 DAYS

Local Food & Drink

Don’t forget to enter all our fabulous

Park Life Magazine

MAGAZINE

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 41

Park Life | Food & Drink

Nature’s Corner

Christmas Gift Hampers now available.

Orders being taken for Christmas Veg boxes and fresh Fruit Baskets too!

Treat someone special to a gift hamper filled with some of the great food we have in store - Scottish cheese, pate, oatcakes, preserves, confectionery and lots more!

We have a great range of gluten free goodies and can make up fresh fruit baskets too.

Christmas veg boxes can be ordered for local delivery or collection from the shop.

More information available on our website or give us a call.

nal shop name and Logo Font

2a Cross St, Callander FK17 8EA Tel: 01877 339067 Email: liz@naturescornercallander.co.uk

Hewitt & Aker FINE FOOD AND WINE

Font colour: Cool Gray 8C

• Wide variety of Cheeses • Takeaway Sandwiches (you can order by phone) & Charcuterie • Unique collection of ceramics • Daily fresh Bread & Bakery (glutenfree breads included) as gifts filled with olives or confectionery & wrapped for you • Wine & Craft Ales • Large variety of Christmas • FIne Chocolates Hampers will be available made • Bespoke cheese & charuterie to order boards for your parties

6 Balfron Road, Killearn G63 9NJ Email: info@hewittandaker.co.uk www.hewittandaker.co.uk | Tel: 01360 550666

42 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Food & Drink

Nestled between Balloch, Stirling and Glasgow in Croftamie near Drymen. On the doorstep to Loch Lomond. Dining out for that special occasion, or just passing through, we always offer you a warm welcome. Enjoy casual dining at great prices without compromising on quality or standards. Just call in to enjoy our exceptional dishes.

Afternoon Teas £7.95pp or 2 for £14.95 and add a bottle of prosecco for a extra £10.95

Pestle & Mortar Delicatessen & Coffee Shop

Selection of quality meats & cheeses.

Hand-made bread and organic produce used where possible. Call to pre order for a party or call ahead to pick up. Try our popular homemade coleslaw, soups and baking to take away or dine in. Bespoke hampers for all occasions. Outside catering.

ke Bespo as Christm ers Hamp call

Book now for Christmas!

Croftamie, Near Drymen G63 0EU

or pop in rder! to o

Freshly ground fairtrade coffee Bella & The Team look forward to welcoming you!

Now under the new management of Bella Ross

t: 01360 660358 | www.thewayfarersrestaurant.co.uk

T: 01360 771110 | 43 Glasgow Rd, Blanefield G63 9JD Opening Times: 10am-5.30pm

***Festive Feasts *** Bookings being taken now 3rd - 23rd December Lunch: 12noon - 2pm 2 courses £13.50 | 3 courses £16.50 Dinner: 6pm - 8:30pm - 2 courses £18.50 | 3 courses £23.50 Christmas Eve Dinner: 6pm - 8:30pm | 3 courses £25.00 Christmas Day Lunch: 12noon - 3:30pm | 4 courses £55.00 *** Pre Christmas Breaks *** Tuesday 1st to Wednesday 23rd December From £49pp for dinner, bed and breakfast For reservations call 01877 330329 or email info@poppieshotel.com www.poppieshotel.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 43

Park Life | Business

THE KIRKHOUSE INN Glasgow Road, Strathblane, Glasgow, G63 9AA

Christmas at the Kirkhouse Inn, Strathblane

NEW delicious Autumn and Winter Menu Small plates now available

Christmas Bookings now being taken Christmas Day Lunch

£59.00 per person Hogmanay Ceilidh and Disco

£35.00 per person

Festive Menus now available on our website 44 |

Call us now on: 01360 771771 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.kirkhouseinn.com

COM MIT TO CHANGE JOIN TODAY & GET ONE MONTH FREE PLUS A WELCOME PACK WORTH £150

CALL 03448 799057 VITALHEALTHANDWELLBEING.CO.UK WHERE FITNESS IS Terms and conditions apply.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 45

Christmas Party Nights Park Life | Business

at GARTMORE HOUSE

WHEN: Friday 9th December 2016 Saturday 10th December 2016 Friday 16th December 2016 Saturday 17th December 2016 ❅ TIMES: Seated for meal by 7 pm Band and Disco 9pm-1am ❅ WHERE: Gartmore House ❅ ENTERTAINMENT: Everyone will be entertained by the local band‘Acoustic Station’who will start after the meal and finish at 1am.

Cost: £35 per ticket. ❅ ACCOMMODATION: For any guests attending our party nights we have special accomodation rates which are: Double/Twin room B&B in Main House: £60 Family Room (Sleeps 4) B&B in Main House: £80 Ensuite Bunk Room B&B in Craigmore Centre: £15 per person (Minimum of 2 in Room) Please call us on 01877

382 991 Email: mail@gartmorehouse.com for more information.

46 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

The Hogmanay Ball

Park Life | Business

at GARTMORE HOUSE

When :

Saturday 31st December 2016

Times :

Seated for meal by 7pm.

Band and Disco 9pm-1am.

Where :

Gartmore House

Entertainment :

Everyone will be entairtained by the Ceilidh Band ‘It’s No’ Reel’ & Disco This will start after the meal and take you up until 1am.

Cost: £45.00 per Adult Ticket. £22.50 per Child Ticket (Child Menu and Kids Zone provided please ask for more details)

Accommodation :

Limited accommodation packages available.

Please call us on 01877 382 991 or email mail@gartmorehouse.com for more information. www.parklifescotland.co.uk scotland.co.uk

| 47

Park Life | Food & Drink

Gartmore Village Hall is the ideal venue for your special day.

We offer superb facilities in a beautiful rural location. The hall is situated in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park with stunning views of Ben Lomond.

Within the village of Gartmore, we have a Parish Church, the Black Bull Hotel, bed and breakfast locations and self-catering accommodation. There are local catering companies, florists and a wedding make-up artist whose details we can supply you with to help you plan your day.

Wedding packages are tailored to your needs therefore please contact our Hall Co-ordinator, Abbé Farrell by email at gartmore-hall@outlook.com and visit www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

Book Now Christmas Day Lunch - 4 course menu £45, smaller portion for kids & seniors £27.50

Pure Malt

48 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

d

d

d

d

d

d

Park Life | Business

d

d

d

d

d

d

Best Western

d

d

d

d

d

d

d

d

d d

d

d

d

d

d

d

d

Comedy, Ceilidh d & Disco Nights d

d

d

d

d

Prices start from £30.00 per person

d

d

Held in December, January and February

d

Book 10 placesd and get 1 free! d d

d

Quote ‘Party 16’ to take advantage of this offer when booking.

Contact our Events Co-ordinator to check availability but be quick...spaces are filling!

d

Offer is valid for new bookings only. Not available for existing bookings.

Standard terms and conditions apply.

d www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| sales@buchananarms.co.uk

| 49

Park Life’s

Cullen Skink recipe

for the colder weather

500g undyed smoked haddock (skin on) A bay leaf, Knob of butter, 1 onion (peeled and finely chopped) 1 leek (washed and cut into chunks) 2 medium potatoes (unpeeled & cut into chunks ) 500ml whole milk, Chives (chopped to serve) 1. Put the fish into a pan large enough to hold it comfortably, and cover with about 300ml cold water. Add the bay leaf, and bring gently to the boil. By the time it comes to the boil, the fish should be just cooked – if it’s not, then give it another minute or so. Remove from the pan, and set aside to cool. Take the pan off the heat.

2. Melt the butter in another pan on a medium-low heat, and add the onion and the leek. Cover and allow to sweat, without colouring, for about 10 minutes until softened. Season with black pepper.

3. Add the potato and stir to coat with butter. Pour in the haddock cooking liquor and bay leaf, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the potato is tender.

4. Meanwhile, remove the skin, and any bones from the haddock, and break into flakes.

5. Lift out a generous slotted spoonful of potatoes and leeks, and set aside. Discard the bay leaf. Add the milk, and half the haddock to the pan, and either mash roughly or blend until smoothish.

6. Season to taste, and serve with a generous spoonful of the potato, leek and haddock mixture in each bowl, and a sprinkling of chives.

Serve with some fresh local bread and enjoy!

Aberfoyle Golf Club

Braeval Coffee Shop & Restaurant Braeval, Aberfoyle FK8 3UY

e

Christmas Bookingse

e e • •

• • • •

now being taken

Outside seating area, perfect for dog walkers Open by arrangement for evening meals for parties of 10 or more - phone to book We can cater for any special event you have planned Fully licenced bar Friendly staff Beautiful surroundings

Tel: 01877 382 493

Autumn Winter Hours: Fri, Sat, Sun: 11am - 3.30pm 50 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

lic ub P he e o t ryon e! t en ve com Op E wel

Park Life | Business

y t i l a u Q n i d e Root

Tel: 01360 550420 M: 07727 045 939 For further information see www.maccolllandscaping.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 51

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

AW Contracts

aQuA tERRA lANDSCuLPTiNG FRiENDLY, HoNeST, AFFoRDABLE SERviCE 0758.550.7748 www.aqua-terra.co.uk

AuTuMN CLEAN-ups

& PRECiSion Hedge TRiMmiNG

TREE SURGERY & LANDSCAPE SERVICES

Professional expertise in all aspects of tree surgery • Large tree felling in confined spaces • All tree pruning and shaping • High hedges reduced • Woodchipping and waste removal • Advice on protected trees • Certified arborists • Fully insured

BARCLAY’S LANDSCAPING of Milngavie

Driveways • Patios • Fencing • Planting • Walls Decking • Garden Maintenance • Artificial Turf Specialist

TREE SURGERY

Crown Reduction • Felling • Shaped • Removal NPTC Qualified • Fully Insured

FREE ESTIMATES & COMPETITIVE RATES Tel: 0141 956 6480 Mob: 07969 426 588 52 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Autumn Gardening Tips OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

1 Cut back perennials that have died down

1 Clear up fallen leaves - especially from lawns, ponds and beds

2 Divide herbaceous perennials 3 Move tender plants into a greenhouse or conservatory

2 Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging 3 Plant tulip bulbs for a spring display next year

4 Plant out spring cabbages

4 Plant out winter bedding

5 Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts

5 Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem

6 Prune climbing roses

6 Insulate outdoor containers from frost bubblewrap works well

7 Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas 8 Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf

7 Put out bird food to encourage winter birds into the garden 8 Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting

Check Facebook for our monthly offers

ALLANDER

AGGREGATES LTD

DECORATIVE STONE, GRAVEL & SAND for all your landscaping & building needs

Unit 11 Cloberfield, Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 7LN

Tel: 0141 956 4583

Decorative Gravels • Building Sand • Sharp Sand • Kiln Dried Sand • Red Granite Sand Top Soil/Compost • Bark/Composting Bark • Feature & Rockery Stones Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm Sat 8.30am-1pm Cement/Postcrete • Type1/Ballast/Whin Dust • Fencing Material/Panels Garden Sheds/Gazebos • Walling Stone • Paving/Driveways • Membrane/Terram Email: allander.aggregates@btconnect.com Drainage channels & pipe • Firewood • Rocksalt • Cold Tar www.allanderaggregates.co.uk

Craig Tree Care

Professional Tree Surgeons

full range of work with trees including: • Pruning & reduction • Tree removal & replacement • Consultancy & advice • Conservation & preservation

t: 01360 449 275 | m: 07725 834 846 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 53

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

Professional Tree Surgeons • Tree Removals • Tree Pruning • Hedge Cutting • Stump Removal • Tree Surveys • Logs Our qualified, insured and experienced team is based in Doune, specialising in all aspects of tree surgery and arboriculture.

Call or email Finn Millard for a free, no obligation quote.

T : 01786 821750 M : 07428 122018 E: finn@tdtrees.co.uk www.tdtrees.co.uk 54 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

Oakburn Gardens and Trees Hoticultural & Landscaping Services

John Currie

After

Before

BR ICK & STONEWOR K

Stonework and PavingSkills Specialist Tr aditional

Stone Your Walling &Home Traditional For & Brickwork Garden Natural Indian & York Stone Paving Specialist Barn & Property Renovation • Bespoke Features Stone Walling & Traditional Brickwork Dry Stone Walling • Steps & Paths Natural Indian & York Stone Paving Specialist Lime Mortar Work & Repointing • Patios Barn & & Property Slabbing •Renovation Fireplaces Bespoke Features General Building & Property Maintenance Dry Stone walling

CALL TODAY FOR FREE ADVICE & QUOTATION Lime Mortar Work & Repointing

T: 01360 440893 07966 864811 Steps &M: paths E: johncurrie@hotmail.com Patios & Slabbing

• Garden Design • Landscaping • Tree Surgery • Small Civils • Drainage

• Natural Stone Paving • Tobermore Block Paving • Tree Planting • Resin Bound Surfaces

Gregg McIntosh (MI Hort.) Dumbarton m: 07855 132 836 t: 01389 730 687 www.oakburngardensandtrees.com

Fireplaces General Building & Property Maintenance

Hire or Buy Locally at...

call today for free advice & quotation Telephone 01360 550087 Mobile 07966 864811 Fraser C Robb ✔ Extensive ✔ Friendly Team EmailRange johncurrie@hotmail.com will donate ✔ Expert Advice ✔ Training Provided ✔ Service & Support

£5

Stirling Road, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0AA T: 01360 660 688 E: admin@frasercrobb.com www.frasercrobb.co.uk

to Trossachs Search & Rescue for each Mountfield Lawnmower that they sell in 2016.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 55

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

R.G Paving & Hard Landscaping

Quality Workmanship at affordable prices

DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS • PATHS • STEPS • PONDS FENCING • DRAINAGE • TURF • ARTIFICIAL GRASS Contact us today for a free quote!

M: 07990 635530 | T: 01786 842343 | E: rgpaving@hotmail.com fo

Coffee shop now under new management David MacMillan

r C re Get hr ady is tm as

Home baking & light lunches - Breakfast served 7 days

!

Coffee Shop opening hours are the same as the Garden Centre

The very best Autumn Plants & Produce Spring bulbs • locally grown shrubs and climbers

Look out for our workshops run by Holly Nairn starting Sunday 16th October - Winter Containers.

Craft workshops starting in November. See Website or Facebook for details.

With Christmas just around the corner it’s time to get organised.

Order your turkeys, bespoke Christmas hampers and table decorations now!

At The Ward Toll, Balfron Station G63 0QZ - 4 miles south of Aberfoyle on the A81 Follow us on Facebook Winter Opening: Mon - Sat 9.30am - 4.30pm; Sun 10am - 4.30pm E: info@benviewgardencentre.co.uk | T: 01360 850525 | www.benviewgardencentre.co.uk

56 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Graham Sandals Timber Buildings Robust, durable and adaptable one of Graham’s recent projects was to build a new fishing hut for Ballogie Estate on their Commonty beat of the river Dee. As with all Graham’s buildings the frame and cladding are all of Scottish Larch grown harvested and milled on an Estate in the Borders.

All other materials used are sourced with an ethical / low carbon foot print as primary concern. This includes natural British wool insulation and double glazed Windows that use FSC wood as with internal cladding and finishes. A British made wood burning stove with an inbuilt oven keeps the fishers warm and heats their pies in the colder months with lighting provided via a small solar panel.

Graham designs his buildings to meet the individual requirements of customers with a variety of roof finishes be that cedar shingle a living roof or simple corrugated tin. When combined with the Scottish larch which is very durable and weathers to a silver grey, the buildings blend in to the landscape with ease.

If you have a studio, garden room, fishing hut or any other timber building project In mind, you can contact Graham to chat about what you are looking for and view some previous projects via the details below. grahamsandals.co.uk | 07773 809345 | 01786 841788

Graham Timber Buildings Buildings Graham Sandals Sandals Timber Garden rooms, garden design, garden build Scottish Larch Garden Rooms, Studios, Garages & more

www.grahamsandals.co.uk forIN buildings www.moorparkhc.co.uk for gardens BUILDING FEATURED HOMES AND INTERIORS SCOTLAND JULY/ AUGUST 2015 BUILDING FEATURED IN HOMES AND INTERIORS JULY/ AUGUST Unit 5 Craigarnhall, BridgeSCOTLAND of Allan, Stirling FK9 4NG 2015 Unit 5 Craigarnhall, Bridge of Allan, 4NG Tel. 01786 841788 Mobile 07773 809345 | Stirling. | www.grahamsandals.co.uk Tel: 01786 841788 Mobile:FK9 07773 809345

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 57

Park Life | Business

Your Love is our Passion‌ From intimate celebrations to something on a grander scale this Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired house, set in the grounds of Bellahouston Park, provides a stunning back-drop for your special day.

Wedding Packages - 2016/2017 Seasonal Discounts Available t: 0141 353 4770 e: weddings@houseforanartlover.co.uk w:58www.houseforanartlover.co.uk | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 59

Park Life | Business

showcasing local arts and crafts

Come along and be assured of a warm welcome!

Lots of hand crafted gifts for Christmas!

X • Creative in Callander is a not for profit collaboration of around 30 local artists and makers.

• Every fortnight we change the products and arrangement of the shop, keeping the offering fresh.

Only closed for Christmas Day over the Festive Season.

• Our products include wall art, sculpture, jewellery and a selection of goods in glass, ceramics, wood and textiles.

• Staffed by the artists ourselves, we offer a light relaxing space that allows our wares to tempt.

28 Main Street, Callander FK17 8BB Tel: 01877 330923 | Email: info@creativeincallander.co.uk | www.creativeincallander.co.uk

Ferguson Highland Dance Company • Classes for age 3 1/2 and over, all abilities welcome • Opportunities to sit exams, do competitions and performances • Balfron classes Thursday’s at Mclintock Hall Stirling classes Monday’s Holy Trinity Church Hall (near the Albert Hall) • Professional dancers available for all events.

No event to big or to small.

• Lessons available in Balfron and Stirling City Centre

fergusonhighlanddancecompany

Contact Gemma Ferguson 07796 018918 | E: gemma-dance@hotmail.co.uk 60 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

b

creative in callander

Products to make you feel better & look better this Autumn

The benefits of aloe can be traced back through history, but Forever grows, harvests and manufactures the plant through a patented process which has been perfected to produce naturally succulent and high quality aloe. Our famous plain Aloe Vera Gel has been our top selling product for

decades and it’s an ideal digestive aid. Contains over 200 compounds, vitamins & minerals this helps to promote wellbeing.

Look better and feel great in just nine days with this expertly-devised cleansing plan. Designed to kickstart the F.I.T. programme, cleanse your body and adjust your mindset, C9 provides the perfect starting point for transforming your diet and fitness habits. Based around Forever’s bestselling Aloe Vera Gel drink, this nutritionally-balanced programme will allow you to see real results in just nine days.

Our skin is the front line defense in our daily fight against pollution and other environmental irritants, so we need to protect and reinforce it

with extra care. Aloe vera, whose most traditional use as a natural remedy is to soothe the skin, is an ideal defense. We have designed unique and varied products that work naturally by moisturizing and providing essential nutrients and vitamins to the skin. Our skin care products can help protect the skin against the environment’s harsh effects, and are reinforced with the International Aloe Science Council Seal of Approval.

For more information on our wide range of products, or for a personal consultation contact Catriona Stewart on 07917 753882 www.catrionastewartglobal.com/store Facebook - catrionastewartglobal

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 61

Twice as Nice Blinds and Shutters has something to compliment any room TWICE AS NICE B L I N D S

&

S H U T T E R S LTD

High quality made to measure blinds and shutters

freephone: 0808 192 7001

We firmly believe in choice and our independence allows us to supply the most extensive range of systems, fabrics and designs that the industry has to offer ensuring we have something to complement any room. Our family run team treats every client, no matter the size of the job with the same outstanding personal and friendly service allowing you to relax and take your time to choose the right type of blinds for your home.

To view our range of window blinds and more please browse our website or call 0808 192 7001 to arrange a home visit.

• friendly, hassle free & reliable service • free quotations • fully qualified & experienced • all interior/exterior & domestic/commercial work

follow us

rebeccalouisedecorating

Tel: 07766692379 E: enquire@rebeccalouisedecorating.co.uk www.rebeccalouisedecorating.co.uk

62 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Child safe blinds always!

Ask me how

email: sales@twiceasniceblinds.com

www.twiceasniceblinds.com

FOR SALE

Quality Upholstery and Curtain Fabric, Isle and Islay Mills, Ross, Wemyss, Bute, etc Traditional upholstery classes, Day, Evening & Weeklong classes Cushion making & revamp service, curtain making & track for sale

WANTED AND FOR SALE

Antique Chairs, Sofas & Stools, French, Georgian, Victorian etc Tel 01786 850 615 E: Colin.johnson6@btconnect.com The Old Schoolhouse, Ruskie by Stirling FK8 3LG

Time Served Uupholsterer & Furniture Restorer Enquiries Welcome

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS

FABRICS • WALLPAPER • LIGHTING • FURNITURE 16 BALFRON RD, KILLEARN G63 9NJ • T: 01360 550830

INTERIOR DESIGN

SALE FABRIC WALLPAPER LAMPS CHANDELIERS MIRRORS RUGS FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES

A GREAT RANGE OF FABRIC REMNANTS & LARGE PIECES IDEAL FOR CUSHION COVERS, BLINDS & COVERING CHAIRS.

OPENING TIMES: WEEKENDS ONLY 12-4pm AT PANIK GALLERY, 13 MAIN STREET, KILLEARN

Tel: 01360 550830

Homes & Interiors

Traditional Upholstery Service

Commercial & Domestic Work Undertaken Furniture Repair & Restoration

Park Life Magazine

Colin Johnson Furnishings

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 63

Park Life | Business

FK postcodes covered by Stirling Branch

01786 472335 stirling@apollo-blinds.co.uk Glasgow postcodes covered by Clydebank Branch eg G61 G62 G63

0141 941 1852 clydebank@apollo-blinds.co.uk

Christmas & New Year 2016-17 Your what’s on guide and advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & surrounding area

FREE

Local Shopping Guide Village Pantos!

Festive Dining

Christmas Competitions Keep Fit for 2017!

Party Catering Ideas

Park Life Magazine Christmas & New Year 2016/17 coming soon!

Our next edition covers Christmas & New Year, copy deadline is 7th November.

Local Shopping Guide | Village Pantos Festive Dining | Christmas Competitions Party Catering Ideas....and much more!

Contact Park Life - Get in touch Katrina - Director | e: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk m: 07791 976910 t: 01360 550857

20,000

copies covering ALL these local areas!

Bringing your local community together covering: Strathblane • Blanefield • Croftamie • Drymen • Killearn Balfron • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Gartocharn • Fintry • Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Kippen • Gargunnock Thornhill Ruskie • Port of Menteith • Callander • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • Kinlochard • Balloch • Gartmore

64 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Lisa - Sales Director | e: lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk m: 07792 066706 t: 01360 550857 Parklife Magazine, Killearn Mill, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LQ www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

www.davidthompsondesigns.co.uk Tel: 01786 841391 QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

Mob: 07792 639029 Email: enquiries@davidthompsondesigns.co.uk

Give life back to your old kitchen EST.

Before

1999

• From doors to complete kitchens • Large choice of doors, worktops & accessories • Quality bespoke kitchen makeovers ®

CALL IAN OR LAURA FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

0141 942 0977 dreamdoors.co.uk

Visit our showroom: 161 Milngavie Rd, Bearsden, G61 3DYY

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 65

Park Life | Business

MAGAZINE

Your what’s on guide & advertiser for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page, with over 3000 likes now and daily updates on local news and events. Send us your events on Facebook and we can help spread the word for you to make your day even busier!

Slating • Gutter systems • Tiling • PVC Facia & Sofits • Roughcasting • Moss Removal Lead Work • Dry Verge • Modern Ridge Systems • Gutter Cleaning Services

A. HOPES ROOFING

• SLATING • TILING •

ROUGHCASTING •

Covering Glasgow Stirling & Surrounding Areas

ea one roo Serving the ar

f at a time....

Tel: 07876 713111 • 0141 563 8550 • Email: ahopesroofing@gmail.com

Before

66 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

After

An Individual Shop giving Personal Attention - a real find!

THE FABRIC GALLERY, Aberfoyle

• Furnishing Fabrics: A huge range of styles and price to suit any project whether modern or traditional. If you have found a fabric we will do our very best to price match.

• Made to order, or just buy the fabric & stock linings to make yourself.

• In Stock - Discounted Fabrics & Remnants

Perhaps a surprising but a rewarding find in Aberfoyle is The Fabric Gallery - Set off the main street & with private parking this is a real gem. Regular clients travel from Glasgow, Stirling and everywhere in between because of the personal service, huge range of product, the quality of finish and attention to detail offered here at affordable prices.

With many years of experience, Advice on the suitability of fabrics / options and the use of colour over the whole project is freely given.

THE FABRIC GALLERY Huge Range of Designer & Discounted Furnishing Fabrics Quality Furnishings Quality Furnishings Made to Order

Made To Order Roman Blinds, Headboards, Curtains, Tailored Loose Covers Loose Covers, Curtains,

• Headboards, Wallpapers etc Design Service • Interior Interior Design • Wallpapers Home Accessories & Gifts Home Accessories, Gifts • Small Upholstery Antiques • Dolls House • Dolls HouseFood Food

• Soft Furnishings Made to Order at a quality which is second to none: Curtains, Roman Blinds, Cushions, Bedcovers and lots more.

• Upholstery & Removable Tailored Covers are made to order for Sofas, Arm Chairs, Stools, Cushion Pads and Window Seats of all types. For Removable covers your furniture stays with you and the fabric is cut on site.

• Wallpaper & High Quality Paints to order within 3 - 4 days.

• Curtain Tracks and Poles to suit any project style to order usually 3 -4 days

Quality 2nd Hand Hand Sofas Sofas&&Chairs: Chairs: Quality 2nd Multiyork; Parker ParkerKnoll Knolletc etc–- call call for fordetails. details

Main Street, Aberfoyle Main Street, Aberfoyle (next to the Coach House) Monday Saturday :: 10am 10am -- 4.30pm 4.30pm Monday--Saturday

Tel: Tel: 01877 01877 382873 382873 || www.thefabricgallery.co.uk www.thefabricgallery.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 67

Park Life | Business

BLINDS BLINDS BLINDS OUR PRICES CANNOT BE BEATEN 07595265062 NO JOB 07715559199 TOO ROMAN BLINDS ROLLER BLINDS VENETIAN BLINDS VERTICAL BLINDS PLEATED BLINDS PANEL BLINDS VELUX BLINDS CONSERVATORY BLINDS MOTORISED BLINDS WOODEN BLINDS SHUTTERS

SMALL

free design service complete project management

BLIND REPAIRS

MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS PELMETS AND HEADBOARDS

full installation service

FREE EXPERT INSTALLATION DAYTIME, EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS

bespoke kitchen furniture

WWW.JWALKERINTERIORS.COM

Giving your home the interior it deserves

01360 661456

phone for a free quote now EMAIL: INFO@JWALKERINTERIORS.COM

www.mykitcheninteriors.com

In The Scottish Stove Centre

63, Main Street, Croftamie, G63 0EU

Sash & Casement Window Repair

Double & Secondary Glazing | Bespoke New Windows

Book your free, no obligation survey & quote Call today

68 |

0800 243 126 www.ventrolla.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

family run business

LOVE YOUR

Windows

Park Life | Business

We are very excited about being able to supply you with a fantastic range of wall coverings and co ordinating fabrics and now have a fabulous selection from Voyage Decoration, Iliv, and Pip Studio, offering an eclectic mix from the bold and beautiful to the subtle and sublime!

Carpets • Vinyls • Rugs • Lighting • Furniture • Soft Furnishings Candles • Kitchenware • Home Accessories

Home Interiors & Domestic Flooring

A curtain and blind making service is also available with selected fabrics. Why not have a bespoke chair or sofa made from Voyage Decoration, choose the style, fabric and design and they will make you a truly individual piece!

4 Cross Street, Callander FK17 8EA • Tel: 01877 331994 • watsinteriors@gmail.com • www.watsinteriors-flooring.co.uk

WIN a pair of

Dancing Birds Cushions from the Voyage range

compliments of...

WIN wi

Park th Mag Life azine

!

To enter please visit www.parklifescotalnd.co.uk To see more of the Voyage collection you can visit Watsinteriors in Callander

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 69

Park Life | Business

Are you starting, growing or just want to improve your business?

Approachable, practical and pro-active accounting, tax and business service.

Contact Stuart McDonagh FCA for a free initial consultation SYKAM & Co, Chartered Accountants, Balfron

T: 07791 718861 E: enquiries@sykamandco.co.uk W: www.sykamandco.co.uk

built on trust

solicitors & estate agents

Out-of-Hours and Home Appointments available.

• Wills and Executries • Power of Attorney • Asset Protection • Buying and Selling Property

Suzie Falconer Your Local Solicitor

0141 847 4946 suzie.falconer@walkerlaird.co.uk

www.walkerlaird.co.uk

70 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

“No Fix, No Fee” Repairs from £10 PC and Mac Repairs Home Call Out Service Remote Support Data Recovery

Laptop & PC’s from £199

iPhone + tablet repair

Visit your local experts at 59 Milngavie Road, Bearsden G61 2DW (opposite ASDA) mail@laptopandpcdoctor.co.uk www.laptopandpcdoctor.co.uk

0141 942 4020

Open: 9am-5.30pm, Mon-Thur. Fri 10am-5pm. Sat 10am-4pm

Scammers have become more sophisticated in their bid to part us from our cash. From email scams and copycat websites to nuisance calls and tax rebate scams, we need our wits about us!

How to spot a fake, fraudulent or scam website Double check the domain name mending broken windows and rotten apples

tel: 01877 382994 mobile: 07796 002001 www.microcroft.co.uk Computer Support for Home & Small Businesses in and around the National Park

A lot of fraudulent websites will use a domain name similar to a brand or product name.

For example website domains like www.ipadoffers.net or www.discountnikeclothes.com should raise alarm bells.

The majority of companies trademark their name and their website will usually match the company name.

With fraudulent websites, they will use recognisable company names but the name of their website probably won’t cite the well-known company mentioned in their web address.

You should also be cautious of domains which end in .net or .org as they are rarely used for online shopping and may be misused by questionable organisations.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 71

Park Life | Business

MORRIS ARCHITECTS

Make the most of your space extensions new build houses home offices Whether you want a contemporary or traditional design, we cover all aspects of the design process from initial sketches through to detailed design as well as negotiating the Planning and Building Warrant Standards procedures.

W

ROWAN HOUSE, 4 CASTLE GARDENS B A L L I K I N R A I N , B A L F R O N , G 6 3 0 LT TEL 01360 441 075 MOB 07866 426 746 EMAIL morris.architects@btinternet.com

72 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

W

MW CONSULTANTS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Please call Murray tel: 07799 778086 email: murray@mw-consultants.co.uk www.mw-consultants.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Repairs & Services, Secure Storage with 24 Hour CCTV. Caravan and Motorhome sales.

We also fit satellite systems, solar chargers and motor movers.

01786 489022 The Yard, Sauchenford, Plean, FK7 8AP

www.stirlingshirecaravans.co.uk

Endrick Decorators Of Killearn Professional, fully guaranteed, high standard of work carried out by qualified tradesmen.

Interior and Exterior • Painting • Coving Paper Hanging • Ames Taping

Plastering Service Now Available Call Timmy Kearney for a free, no obligation quote.

Westerton Farm Cottage, Killearn G63 9LE Email: Endrick.decorators@btinternet.com

Tel: 01360 551312 Mobile: 07591 586596 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 73

Park Life | Fuels & Stoves

Ewan Bain

www.strathendricklogsupply.wordpress.com

Home Heating Fuels T: 01786 842 225 www.wilsonsgas.co.uk E: info@wilsonsgas.co.uk

• Home Heating Oils • Tank Suppliers & Installers • Domestic Bottled & Bulk Gas • Industrial & Commercial Fuels • Agricultural Fuels • Lubricants • Pink Paraffin Call Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm 24hr answerphone service Fast Efficient Service - same day or next day delivery

01360 660264 Fax: 01360 660001 Parkview, Croftamie, Glasgow G63 0EU

Install & Service of Gas Boilers/Appliances Gas Safety Checks, Legionella Assessments Domestic and Commercial Gas Repairs Contact us about Landlord Packages

74 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.jamesdbilsland.com

Park Life | Fuels & Stoves

YOUR LOCAL LOGS FUELS & STOVES Hardwood

LOGS • Net bags of logs • Net bags of kindling • Net bags of peat • Bulk bags of logs

Barn dried, delivered & stacked.

Call Blair day or evening

01786 870328

E: wdbuchanan@btinternet.com

STOVES Stove & Chimney Specialists

Stove Sales & Installations Professional Chimney Sweeping Can be done in any weather No Mess Part of ICS Single-storey from £50 Two-storey from £60 Call Dawn on 07795 966 514 or 01877 330643 Visit our new shop to see our range of stoves.

Feeds & Stoves, 21 Main Street, Callander

Firewood Suppliers

KILN DRIED HARDWOOD, SOFTWOOD LOGS AND KINDLING. • Cubic Metre of kiln dried softwood £65 • Cubic metre of seasoned hardwood £85 Bags of kindling and eco friendly firelighters also available.

FRE

E

DISCOUNTS FOR LARGER LOADS. CALL DAWN ON 07795 966 514 OR EMAIL TARTANTIMBER@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

DEL IVER WH Y QUO EN YOU TE “ P LIFE ARK ”

WWW.TARTANTIMBER.COM

E: dawn@feedsandstoves.co.uk W: www.feedsandstoves.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 75

Park Life | Business

J Brand Decorating All aspects of interior and exterior decorating and plasterwork undertaken.

A. STEELE

Painter And Decorator

5 Kiltrochan Drive, Balfron G63 0QJ

T: 01360 440 945 M: 07867672495 E: jackbrand@btinternet.com

Interior & Exterior Paint Work All Work Guaranteed For a FREE estimate call Tel: 0141 942 5899 Mob: 07581 043143 Andrew Steele • Adam Steele 19 Cromarty Crescent • Bearsden • Glasgow G61 3LU

MAGAZINE

Your what’s on guide & advertiser for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page, with over 3000 likes now and daily updates on local news and events. Send us your events on Facebook and we can help spread the word for you to make your day even busier!

Strathendrick Decorating Plastering & Joinery

John Gault m: 07748 283947 Allan Denton m: 07984 549933 Joe McLaren m: 07980 983995 Email: strathdp@hotmail.com Interior, Exterior Paint Work.

Ames Taping. Coving and all types of Plasterwork. Joinery.

76 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Home improvements? think...McNairs!

• Stunning Doors • Laminate, Vinyl & Hardwood Floors • Stairs • Bathrooms • Door handles • Paint & Varnish • Tools • Mouldings & Architraves Visit our Doors & Floors Showroom

Independent Supplier to Trade & DIY for over 30 years NEW Bathroom Displays coming soon!

£100 rewards on

VELUX

INTEGRA

Roof Windows During October!

• Fast, reliable delivery service • Huge Stocks, great prices • Knowledgeable, friendly staff

Oak Flooring from only

£24.89/m² + VAT

Building Materials • Timber & Sheets • Doors & Floors Landscaping • Roofing • Drylining • Insulation • & more Old Mill Park, Glasgow Road, Kirkintilloch G66 1SS

| 77 www.parklifescotland.co.uk 0141 777 8080 • Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm SAT 8AM-4PM

Picture by Paul Saunders Photography

Park Life | Business

DRYMEN TILING Professional Tiling Services All Aspects of Wall & Floor Tiling Internal & External Tel: David on 07810 194226 drymentiling@btinternet.com www.facebook.com/drymentiling

Buchlyvie Electrical

s

imon Head Joinery Services

All Trades Contractor Domestic & Commercial Maintenance & Repair • • • •

Extensions New Builds Glazing Bathroom renovations

• • • •

Loft conversions Kitchens supplied and fitted All types of insurance work Window board-up service

No job too big or small Free Estimates Mob: 07764 255163 simonheadjoineryservices@hotmail.co.uk

Trailer Fridge Freezer Mobile Unit

All Electrical Work Undertaken Electric Radiators Supplied and Fitted

Davie Haggerty Specialising in thermal dynamic electric radiators replacements for old storage heaters.

Email: buchlyvieelectrical@aol.com

Fully Insured T: 07826 628320

STEWART HOLLINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Established Since 1983

£250 per week

65p per mile delivery each way.

Call Tim for more details on

t: 01877 385231 m: 07885 841735 78 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

07960 858758

Park Life | Business

Need it Done Right?

Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens

DUNRITE PLUMBING

4x4 Van for all weather conditions No call out charge

Pride in Workmanship

FREE Estimates

Minor repairs to complete installation

Fully Insured

T: 01360 550799 M: 07772944521 E: Dunrite.plumbing33@yahoo.co.uk

Fowler & Son CHIMNEY SWEEPS Modern sweeping with a traditional twist.

Cowls supplied & fitted T: 01436 670124 M: 07875 068510

Call us today: 01360 770708 07968 831313 Time served quality tradesmen

We are a family business providing a range of services throughout Glasgow and the surrounding areas in Stirlingshire.

All our quotations are free of charge and carry no obligation.

Services: Re-roofing Slating and Tiling Soffit and Fascia Guttering services

Velux Windows Chimney Work Insurance and General Roughcasting and Leadwork

23 Kirkland Avenue, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9BY

www.gs-roofing.co.uk

info@gs-roofing.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 79

Park Life | Business

Roofing & Building Contractors

Slating • Tiling • Flat Roof Specialists Groundwork • Drainage • Patios • Driveways For a FREE ESTIMATE or ADVICE contact Jason McGregor Tel 0800 4488286 / Mob 07766182195 www.mbsroofing.co.uk 80 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

homeworx

Park Life | Business

property maintenance and repairs

painting and decorating (interior and exterior) ceramic tiling

• Kitchens,

• Renovations • Extensions

• General joinery • Insurance work

• Free estimate

Bathrooms Design and Installation

hardwood and laminate floor fitting joinery

All Trades Top ProvidedQuali Top Quality all work considered Top QualityGarageGara Door for a free quote, call Garage Doors We can auto 01360 550542 or 07870 329349 plastering

SUPPLIED & INSTAL

SUPPLIED INSTALLED Roller We can&automate

your existing d Roller We can automate your existing door

Roller

We replace, repair, automate and service SD GARAGE DOORS Automatic Door all types of 20 Years Experience Automatic Door Up We replace, repair, automate and service garage doors garage doors and automatic openers. We Automatic Door Up & Over We replace, repair, automateand and service all types of Sectio automatic RETRACTABLE ROLLER of doorsWe to have suit every style of home and eve garage doors and automatic openers. a range We replace, repair, automate and service all types of Sectional openers. of doors to suit every style of home and everyDoor budget.

• Garage Installations garage doors and automatic openers. We have a range of doors to suit every style of home and every budget.

• Garage Door Repairs • Garage Door Installations

We have a range of doors to suit every styleE: info@sdgarag E: info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk of home and www.sdgarage www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk any budget.Stirling: Glasgow:

• Garage Door Repairs • Garage Door Installations • Garage Door Repairs

See what customers have E: our info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk to say. We’ve partnered with www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk 0141 250 7787 01786 845 866 Trustpilot, an independent Glasgow: Stirling: Ayrshire: Helensb review0141 site to help our7787 01786 845 866 01292 501 253 01436 250 We accept all major credit cards. customers share their Glasgow: Stirling: Ayrshire: Helensburgh: of845 SD Garage Doors 0141 250 7787 experience 01786We 866 01292 01436 653 076 accept all major credit cards.501 253 with people like you.

Covering Glasgow & The West

Call us now on 01786 845 866

We accept all major credit cards. info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 81

Park Life | Business

“THE CAT’S PYJAMAS” DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICES Established 2010

Holiday Lets Office Cleaning Including Carpet Cleaning Fully Insured 01360551673 | 07960 156044 | fatcat10@mac.com

Call Karen on

www.thecatspyjamascleaning.co.uk

T: 01389 721095 Commercial Contract Hire for: Bed, Bath & Table Linen Laundering Linen for: Hotels • B&B’s Restaurants • Health Clubs • Hairdressers

Domestic Laundry & Dry Cleaning • Service Wash Ironing • Equine Laundry • Pet Beds

Units 8 & 9, North St Ind Est, North Street, Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire G83 0EA

www.thelaundrylady.co.uk

Ha Sleeplf Price ing Ba When gs collec bags are b o te d

ugh

t in & Prese from the nt la in Lau Park Life a undry ndry to dvert re cieve disco u T&Cs nt. apply

Punjabi curry kits and cookery school

True Punjabi Cooking www.scotiaspice.co.uk T: 01360 449399

82 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Farmers Markets

FRANCE FARM FRIDAYS

EDENMILL FARM SHOP

MILNGAVIE FARMERS MARKET

9am-5pm Wed to Sun Edenmill deliver to local areas every Friday. If you would like to place an order, give the shop a call (01360 771 707) on a Wednesday, and your order will be delivered straight to your door on Friday, at no extra cost!

Every Friday; 9am-5pm Beside Millennium Hall, Gartocharn family run market with a huge selection of local produce including fruit & veg, cooked meats, cheese, eggs, butcher meats.

1st Wednesday of the month; 10am-2pm Douglas Street. A weekday market, which is extremely well supported locally. A wide variety of producers from all over Scotland in a splendid central position give this market a tremendous traditional atmosphere.

KILLEARN COUNTRY MARKET Killearn Village Hall First Sunday of the month 1pm-4pm

LOCH LOMOND SHORES FARMERS MARKET

1st & 3rd Sunday of the month; 10am-4pm Balloch Most panoramic location of any Scottish market.

A magnificent selection of produce, nearby parking, wonderful shopping in the Lomond Shore Gateway Centre, picnic areas and restaurants.

STIRLING FARMERS MARKET

2nd Sat of each month; 10am-4pm Port Street, Stirling.

A very busy and well organised market with a superb cross section of produce from all over Central Scotland. The market is located in the pedestrian area of the city centre (outside M&S) and is within easy access of the main streets, car parks, rail and bus stations.

McKECHNIE’S

fruit, vegetables & so much more...

BOQUHAN FARMERS MARKET Wednesday & Thursday each week; 7am-2pm Boquhan Estate Wednesday – fruit, veg & dairy products.

Thursday - additional fresh fish, bread, jams and cakes.

BENVIEW FARMSHOP Open: Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm Sun 10.30am-4.30pm Farm shop stocking veg, cheeses, preserves, biscuits, cakes etc.

Tel: 01360 850525 www.benviewgardencentre.co.uk Ward Toll, Balfron Station G63 0QZ.

Boquhan Estate, Kippen FK8 3JQ Wednesday & Thursday 8.00am - 2.00pm France Farm, Gartocharn G83 8NF Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm t: 01389 830239 m: 07969096325

organic porridge oats • highland beef steak pies selection of halloween nuts • seasonal root veg

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 83

Park Life | Index

Accountant/Solicitor Baxter Accounting 70 Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 70 Walker Laird 70 Activities/Entertainment/Kids Castle Rednock Trekking Centre 14 Country Living 17 Classics at Kippen 33 Ferguson Highland Dance Co 60 Fintry Sports Centre 16 Go Country 35 Green Aspirations Scotland 36 House Folk Scottish Music Festival 34 Kiddo Funky Monkey 15 Kip McGrath/Cellfield 37 Loch Katrine Cruises 3 Lomond School 4 MacRoberts Centre 36 McLaren Leisure Centre 32 Nick Nairn Cook School 14 The MacKintosh Festival 59 Razzamataz 14 The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre 32 Woodland Experiences 18/19 Alterations/Soft Furnishings The Sewing Room 82 Architects Malcolm Parry Architects 72 MH Planning 72 Morris Architects 72 Murray 72 Caravan Storage Stirlingshire Caravans 73 Christmas Trees Duff Christmas Trees 39 Computer Services Kappa Computer 71 Laptop and PC Doctor 71 Microcroft 71 Electricians Buchlyvie Electrical 78 Stewart Hollington 78 Florist Bramble & Thyme Flowers 39 Food/Drink/Venues/Accomodation A little stupot Cafe 15 Ardoch Management Co Ltd 50 Braeval coffee shop & Restaurant 50 Buchanan Arms Hotel 49 France Farm 83 Gartmore Village Hall 48 Gartmore House 46/47 House for an Art Lover 58 Hewitt & Aker 42 Kirkhouse Inn 44 MacDonald Forest Hills Hotel 45 Natures corner 42 Pestle & Mortar 43 Poppies Hotel & Restaurant 43 Red Kite Yurts 36 84 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

RhubarbLime 40 St Mocha 40 Trailer Fridge/Freezer Unit 78 The Lade Inn 48 The Oak Tree Inn 2 The Wayfarers 43 Town & Country Designs Coffee Shop 41 Funeral Services Andrew Anderson & Sons 8 Galleries & Gift Shops Creative in Callander 60 Ian Gallacher Jewellers 21 Loch Lomond Shores 25 Moon 21 Schrowtime Studios 33 Sheila Fleet Jewellery 22/23 Tha family tree art Gallery 24 Wonderland 20 Gardening & Outdoors Allander Aggregates Ltd 53 Aqua terra Landsculpting 52 AW Contracts 52 Barclay’s Landscaping 52 Benview Garden Centre 56 Craig Tree Services 53 Cruachan Landscaping 54 Fraser Robb 55 Graham Sandals Timber Buidings 57 John Currie Brick and Stonework 55 MacColl Landscaping 51 Oakburn Gardens and Trees 55 RG Paving & Hard Landscaping 56 Scotia Contracts Ltd T D Trees 54 Tradstocks 86 Health & Wellbeing Care Vision 26 Catriona Stewart 61 C Beauty @ The Yoga Place 29 Clements hearing services 28 Liz Ewing Sports Massage & Personal Training 29 Tir Na Nog 29 Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds 64 Colin Johnson Traditional Upholstery 63 David Thompson 65 Dream Doors 65 Edge of the wood 66 Elspeth Bennie artist blacksmith 67 Household & Industrial Floor Sanding services 66 J Walker Interiors 68 Kitchen & Bathroom Interiors 68 Sparklie Carpets 11 Town & Country Designs 63 The Fabric Gallery 67 Twice as Nice 62 Ventrolla Scotland 68 watsinteriors & flooring Ltd 69

Laundry & Domestic Services The Cat’s Pyjamas The Laundry Lady Local Produce Scotia Spice Logs/Fuels Hardwood Logs Strathendrick Logs Tartan Timber W. Wilson & Sons Wood for Fuel James D Bilsland Ltd Painting & Decorating Andrew Steele Painter & Decorator Endrick Decorators of Killearn Jack Brand Decorating Rebecca Louise Decorating Strathendrick Decorators Pet Services Feeds & Stoves Photography Paul Saunders Media & Photography Plumbers Dunrite Plumbing Property/Office Space/Letting Corum GS Properties Holme Properties Office Space Walker Laird Stoves Ardstove Feeds & Stoves Stirling Stove Centre Trades & Services Aberfoyle Satellite Company Adrian Pirie A Ferguson Plastering A Hopes Roofing Appliance Repairs & Spares Bathroom Transformations C-Mix DM Joinery Drymen Tiling Fowler & Son G&S Roofing Ltd GBS Homeworx Killearn KM Joiners Lorne Howell Joiners & Builders Man Aboot the Hoose MBS Roofing McNairs Render Mender RM Contractors SD Garage Doors Simon Head Joinery Your Heating Ltd Window Cleaning Night & Day

82 82 82 75 75 74 74 6 74 76 73 76 67 76 76 29 79 88 87 10 70 75 75 74 85 85 85 66 85 7 85 10 78 79 79 8 81 81 9 79 80 77 80 80 81 78 10 11

Park Life | Business

ALAN ROBINSON

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS (established 27 years)

tes and advice Call for estima Dumbarton: 01389 762324 Drymen: 01360 661161 | Mobile: 07831 127234

FRESH LOCAL CONCRETE SUPPLIED 07771 562 661 www.cmix.co.uk

• Only pay for what you use

• No Waste

• Deliveries from 1m3

• No Part load charges

• Barrow Service

• No waiting charges

A. Ferguson Plastering

Free No Obligation Quotes

General Building • Plastering • Roughcasting Decorating • Kitchen Fittings Bathroom Fitting • Plumbing Roman Rd, Balfron, G63 OPW Mob: 07470 806265 Tel: 01360 440 065 E: a.ferguson_plasterers@hotmail.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 85

NEVER A BETTER TIME TO BUY AND SELL

By Gordon Adams of G & S Properties

After 46 years of selling, letting in the acquisition and sale of local properties Gordon Adams knows the market better than most and says that it’s never a better time to buy and sell as the differential between the cost of purchase and sale only slightly differs as both generally rises at the same rate in any given area.

Whether you purchase first or sell first that depends on how bullish you want to be.

The concern is that to sell first purchasers may not find a house of their choice before they have to move out of their existing home and need to turn to the rental market.

Conversely those who purchase first have the dilemma of not knowing whether they can sell their existing home at a price in time to meet the cost of their purchase.

Although there are exceptions, home owners should sell first as the amount of monies now involved are substantial and can be financially crippling if the property is not sold or has to be sold at a lesser sum after a purchase of the new home.

Traditionally the Scottish market commits both parties to the sale through a missive rather than subject to contract as is the case in England, however the market in Scotland is changing with solicitors reluctant to conclude missives and commit their clients to the sale without certainty of funds or the sale of their existing home, which is now producing a “chain effect” as exists in England To counteract this problem there is middle course where the existing property is listed and circulated through the agent’s database to

gauge the interest in the house at a given price which will indicate whether the assessment of value can be achieved. In concert with that move an approval of loan should be sought through the lenders.

The market has changed dramatically in the last 15/20 years since by the availability of property portal web sites, at G & S they have evolved an IT system that holds thousands of buyers from all over the world looking for specific properties in the West of Scotland. This allows purchasers to be emailed to their cell phones and PC’s in seconds This system assists sellers and purchaser alike and allows both the confidence to move forward with many properties bought and sold before they appear on many of the web sites.

Natural Stone

Architectural ~ Walling ~ Paving ~ Ornamental All Enquiries Welcome

Thornhill: 01786 850400 | Livingston: 01506 873081 | info@tradstocks.co.uk

www.tradstocks.co.uk

86 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Selling & Letting Local homes for over 45 years, we have over 6000 registered buyers waiting to purchase homes like yours!

Experience counts everytime, Trust the market leaders in the West of Scotland.

Book your Market Appraisal today for further information.

BEARSDEN: 0141 942 9090 WEST END: 0141 334 1111 LETTING: 0141 942 1024 A second generation family business... family owned and operated Email: info@gsproperties.co.uk

Website: www.gsproperties.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk | 87

Been thinking of moving?

Act now!

There has never been a better time to sell.

At Corum we are selling a property every 63 minutes.

If you live in the National Park area and are looking Corum for a fresh approach to marketing your property, speak to Corum Bearsden today for a complimentary, up-to-date market appraisal of your home.

James Lang Partner

Contact us today on

Ross McMillan Associate Partner

Visit our website

0141 942 5888 corumproperty.co.uk Corum Bearsden 4 Canniesburn Toll, Bearsden G61 2QU

the best sellers