West End Life Issue29 Aug/Sep 2015

Page 1

August/September 2015 | Issue 29

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Scotland’s Boat Show Budget Surprises Ben’s Buggy Bonanza Act now to help your loved one Focus on the home – Loft Conversions Fit for Fashion Behind Closed Doors

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River Cruises

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Choosing an Independent School

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% Contributors this issue: Simon Gemmell, Mike Ramsay, Charles Briggs, John Cairns, Marilyn Thompson, Holly Thompson

August/September Issue 29, 2015 Publisher: Life Magazines and Publications Ltd Editor

Charles Briggs

Features Editor: Rob Reid rob@westendlife.biz Advertising Sales Manager: Nicky Murphy nicky@westendlife.biz Advertising Sales: Lisa Sanderson lisa@westendlife.biz

Cover Image: Doors Open Day - Fairfield Shipyard Offices ©McAteer

Contact Info: Editorial: 07788-923054 Advertising: 0141-413-4660 Email: editor@westendlife.biz Web: www.westendlife.biz Graphic Design: Simon Jones, Skep Design: 07817 312062 Advert Design: Simon Jones, Skep Design: 07817 312062

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

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Join over 14,000 visitors from all over the UK & Europe for Scotland’s Boat Show 2015 Scotland’s Boat Show at Kip Marina, is the 3rd largest boat show in the UK with a host of attractions, bringing visitors to Inverclyde from all corners of the sailing world! With FREE ADMISSION and a nominal £5 Car Park it is the best value show in the country! Once again the middle of October will see activity around Kip Marina reaching fever pitch as it plays host to Scotland’s Boat Show – for the 29th year. Scotland’s Boat Show takes place on October 9, 10 and 11 and offers a host of entertainment and activity for visitors – well beyond the prospect of boats for every kind of sailor.

Year of Food & Drink Scotland 2015 at Scotland’s Boat Show

As well as boats of all shapes and sizes Scotland’s Boat Show 2015 will have plenty to entice visitors on shore with the addition this year of a dedicated Pavilion showcasing Scottish produce as part of VisitScotland’s Year of Food & Drink 2015. The Scottish Food & Drink Pavilion contains carefully selected local and Scottish food & drink producers displaying their goods in a ‘street market’ style setting. Expect everything from hand baked goods, homemade tablet and unique Scotch Eggs to artisan distilled gin! Also within the Pavilion will be a live kitchen and stage where chefs and producers demonstrate dishes and skills

enabling visitors to create their own delights and how to get the best out of the fantastic produce available in Scotland. The Scottish Food & Drink Pavilion has received support as part of the Year of Food and Drink, an initiative delivered by VisitScotland and will be situated adjacent to The Chartroom Restaurant. The Year of Food and Drink Scotland 2015 celebrates the country’s outstanding natural larder and produce. Enjoy brilliant moments packed with regional delights and discover the landscapes, people and culture that make our food heritage so unique. Come and experience it and taste the very best Scotland has to offer at Scotland’s Boat Show 2015.

Isle of Cumbrae Pipe Band

Other attractions at Scotland’s Boat Show for 2015

Climbing Wall and Weapons Display

Helicopter Flights

For an unforgettable view of Scotland’s Boat Show take a helicopter flight over Kip Marina and view the stunning scenery of the Firth of Clyde – flight reservations will be available from 1st September.

Piping display from the famous Isle of Cumbrae Pipe Band – Saturday and Sunday.

On Water Taster Sessions

Try your hand at sailing, powerboats or RIBs under expert tuition of Clyde Muirshiel Park and Seatrek Training – see website for details.

Flyboarding Display and Trial Lessons

Demonstrations and the chance to try Flyboarding the latest extreme water sport.

Clyde Lifestyle Pavilion

Everything from designer furniture, clothing, accessories and candles to Scotland’s top crafters and artists with an amazing range of handmade products you won’t find on the high street.

Visit the Royal Highland Fusiliers specialist weapons display unit and for the more adventurous try the vertical climbing wall!

Luxury Car Area

Displays of latest models from Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Morgan and Porsche.

For full details visit www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk 4 | West End Life – August/September 2015

@westendlife

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!"#$%&''()*+, #--./.($#', $.',)#/&, 0#$-,12-3&/, +2)4).+&+ By John Cairns Death and taxes are the two certainties in life. Having said that, not all estates at death are subject to Inheritance Tax and the budget on 8 July 2015 will enable some to escape its clutches by introducing an additional nil rate band Inheritance Tax threshold, where you own a valuable house. This proposal had been pre-announced, but there were a couple of surprises. The additional nil rate band will only be available if you die after 5 April 2017, so it may be worth considering postponing that bungee jump which you had always promised yourself. Like many tax changes, there was a big bang announcement in the budget but, on looking at the detail after the Chancellor sat down, we see that the full additional £175,000 is being phased in from 6 April 2017 with the full amount not being available unless you die after 5 April 2020. If you are lucky enough to own more than one residence, the additional nil rate band is only available in respect of one of them, but your executors will be able to nominate which. The house must be a residence of yours and, for example, buy to let properties do not qualify. The property must be left to a direct descendant, so will be available where you leave your house to children or grandchildren. One surprise is that, where you downsize or sell your house to, for example, move into a retirement home after 8 July 2015, then the additional nil rate band can be utilised against assets of an equivalent value which are passed to your direct descendants. So, if you sell your house and invest the proceeds in

West End Life Magazine

stocks and shares, then stocks and shares up to the value of the additional nil rate band can be covered by it. Another surprise is that the additional nil rate band will not benefit the seriously wealthy in that where the estate of the deceased has a net value of more than £2 million, the additional nil rate band will be withdrawn at a rate of £1 for every £2 of estate over the threshold. A final pleasant surprise is that the additional nil rate band, like the existing £325,000 nil rate band, is transferrable between spouses and civil partners. If, on the first death, some or all of the nil rate band is not utilised then, on the second death, some or all of a second nil rate band can be utilised. For further information contact John Cairns on 0141 221 2984. John Cairns is a tax partner at French Duncan Chartered Accountants

FD Debt Solutions is the debt expert department of French Duncan Chartered Accountants. Our trusted advisors have been providing debt solutions across Scotland since 1989. Providing a quality service you can trust, we tailor every debt solution to the individual to ensure you can maintain and then exit the specific solution, debt and stress free.

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Ben' s Buggy Bonanza in the Botanics in aid of Bliss Bliss supports babies born too soon too small and too sick. Our grandson, Ben was born on the 18th May eight weeks premature. He received tremendous care from the staff at the Southern General hospital and from the team of Bliss nurses. Bliss helps families in so many ways from offering a helpline, care in the hospital from dedicated Bliss nurses and support once the baby

is well enough to go home. We as a family want to say thank you to this terrific organisation and to help them be in a position to help other babies and their families. To do that we are holding a buggy push on Sunday 30th August at 2.30pm. A band of around forty family and close friends with their babies will walk 5K to raise £500 pounds for

Bliss.

Ben’s great nannie who

celebrated her 80th birthday this month will also join in the 5K walk. We will start outside the Kibble Palace and end our walk outside the Friends Of the River Kelvin bunkhouse where we will celebrate with a picnic on the grass. www.justgiving.com/marion-burns

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LJX Woodfuels stockists of Kiln & Barn dried logs. Call 01505 873347 for more details.

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BBC2 and The University of Glasgow join forces to explore health benefits of

OLIVE OIL

BBC2 health and medical programme ‘Trust Me, I’m a Doctor’, in association with The University of Glasgow, is looking for volunteers to take part in a large study into olive oil. Now in its 4th series, the programme is presented by Michael Mosely and along with three other doctors will be exploring the potential health benefits of olive and other oils, in line with ongoing research at the University. The programme is looking for volunteers who are aged 25 or over, overweight and prepared to participate in a 12-week study involving the consumption of small amounts of vegetable oil for comparable testing. Anyone who may be interested in taking part or who wants more information should email nutrition.glasgow@gmail.com or call 0141 201 8527.

When it came to straightening my teeth, the choice was clear: Invisalign. Within Philip Friel Advanced Dentistry 154 Hyndland Road Glasgow G12 9HX Call 0141 530 1941 or visit: cherrybankdentalspa.com

BEFORE

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Business Focus -

Clements Hearing & Earcare Services

!"#$#%&'()#*+,%-(.#+/,0#'( 1*'(2##%(*+34%5(*("3%-( time but you’ve recently 2+*%01#5(34&(,%&3(!"#$#%&'( 6*+0*+#(.#+/,0#'7(81*&(9*'( 2#1,%5(&1,'($3/#: We needed a dedicated space for our growing wax removal service. We have been removing earwax for two years now; initially offering the service mainly to our existing clients. With little prompting or promotion from us a growing demand for this service from the general public was soon apparent.

couch to allow us to do this. We are delighted to be able to offer a fully professional wax removal service.

How do you keep abreast of industry innovations and professional development? In this ever changing world of technology it is important to keep a finger on the pulse. Thankfully we are helped greatly by our major suppliers, who stage regular educational events to update us of developments in their own products as well as in the profession. They also visit us regularly, which is a great source of information.

Until the recent opening of Clements Earcare Services in the adjacent shop, all services were crammed into one consulting room. The As well as this there is a more additional space has allowed us formal style of education and to fit in all of the proper equipment recently we have undertaken for expert wax removal. Notably, courses in Wax Management at microsuction should be performed Aston University Birmingham and with the patient lying down and University College London, as well as a 2015 professional development we now have medical treatment 10 | West Enda Life – August/September

seminar (with delegates from all Europe) in Vienna’ So we think it’s fair to say that we invest considerably in Continual Professional Development, which allows us always to be up to the minute with the products and services we offer.

!"#$#%&'(,'(-3,%-(;+3$( strength to strength. What’s next for the practice? We are opening a mobility centre right next door to our earcare clinic. So it’s another steep learning curve for us to do with wheelchairs, scooters, stairlifts and about a million other products designed to help people who need it in their daily lives. We want it to be a friendly drop in centre so there will be a refreshment station where people can come in, have tea or coffee and discuss their needs with us. The branding will be different but @westendlife

similar if that makes sense to that which we have established in our other businesses.

<'(&1#('#+/,0#(-+39'(91*&( remains most important to you at Clements?! Never to lose sight of the importance of good customer service- and to keep it personal. In this aspect we feel we have a competitive advantage over some of our larger rivals. We are Val and Greg , a customer will always be dealing with only either one of us. The customer gets to know us and we get to know the customer.

probably a lot more bicycles now.

You’ve been on Crow Road since 1997, you must have '##%(*("3&(3;(01*%-#'(,%(&1#( West End in this time?

Where are your top places to hang out and people 9*&01(,%(&1#(8#'&(6%5=(*%5( why?

We have and we haven’t. Whilst there now seems to be major supermarket on every corner, the underlying things which make the West End a nice place to be in are really much the same. The architecture, the heritage, the leafiness, the village- like feeling, the friendliness of the people. It has always buzzed and it continues to do so. There are

You can’t beat the Botanic gardens on a good day. Any pavement cafe on Byres or Hyndland Road – outside on a good day, indoors on a bad.From 1st August the drop in centre at Clements Mobility Services promises to be a great hangout.

West End Life Magazine

So if you need help with your hearing, wax taking out of your

ears or you need a mobility aid please call in or phone us. You will be most welcome. Clements Hearing & Earcare Services 538 Crow Road, Jordanhill G13 1NU Tel: 0141 954 6030 www.clementshearingservices.co.uk

www.westendlife.biz | 11

Yours In Harmony As a Stress Management and Hypnotherapy consultant my aim is to help clients live in the moment and make positive changes in their lives. I can help with a range of conditions including panic attacks, anxiety conditions, Morag Tester exam stress, IBS, migraines, weight loss, Interview preparation and pain management My individually tailored sessions teach clients techniques from stress management, counselling, mindfulness and hypnotherapy that can also be used on other areas of their life. I am a member of the Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council which is the approved organisation in relation to professional standards for Health Care for Complimentary Therapists.

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For More info please contact Morag or visit the website: T: 07713629293 E: info@yoursinharmony.com W: www.yoursinharmony.com

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A Power of Attorney is easier to set up before it is needed - otherwise it can By Mike Ramsay be necessary to go through the courts A Power of Attorney is a written document that gives someone legal authority to make decisions on your behalf. Anyone over sixteen can give Power of Attorney which lasts until you decide to terminate it. Giving Power of Attorney gives you peace of mind because you know that if you become incapable of making decisions about your own affairs and someone that you trust who

A written document, a certificate of capacity and a registration form are all needed to create a Power of Attorney and a solicitor can prepare these documents and help you understand them. These must be very carefully granted and a solicitor has to sign a certificate to confirm that the person who actually signs the Power of Attorney knows what they are

can be a member of your family or a friend will be able to make these decisions in relation to your welfare or finances for you.

doing. Once the registration form is completed the document is sent to the Office of the Public Guardian. It is registered there.

Act now save later Ramsay and Co are a long established firm of Solicitors who have many years of expertise in advising and supporting clients. We offer a modern client-friendly approach to the provision of family legal services. Ramsay and Co are dedicated to providing top quality, client-focused legal services and are committed to maintaining the highest standards in the advice and services which

we provide. We know that when you instruct a Solicitor you are making a very important decision. Ramsay and Co’s commitment is to offer clients professional and impartial advice, tailored to clients’ particular needs and circumstances. For a confidential, no obligation consultation contact Mike Ramsay on 0141 945 1917 or email info@ramsay-solicitors.co.uk or visit our offices at

14 | West End Life – August/September 2015

You can of course cancel your Power of Attorney (revoke it) if you write to the Public Guardian. Power of Attorney is a document which everyone should have. If you want your loved ones to care for you when you can’t care for yourself then it is something which should be organised by you while you still can. If you don’t execute Power of Attorney and you become incapacitated then your friends, relatives or social work department might need to apply for a Guardianship Order which can be a protracted and expensive court process. Often people think that if they are “next of kin” then that will give them the authority to deal with their loved ones affairs or make decisions on their behalf. Everyone should have a Will and everyone should have a Power of Attorney. These are very important legal documents which can stop family arguments and upset during life and after death.

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The UK’s No.1 Independent Tyre and Autocare Retailer is

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@westendlife

Focus on the Home – Loft Conversions

>")?(#21)@%24(%9"32%1$%*%@#(*2%=*+%2"%*88"AA":*2(%*%@#"=1)@%3*A19+B Extending the accommodation in your house by converting the loft space, is a great way to expand your home without using up the garden, or altering in any appreciable way the outward appearance of your house. These types of alterations, especially when altering the roofline or adding a new permanent staircase must be done professionally. They are certainly not suitable projects for cheerful amateurs. To convert a loft successfully, you need to understand how the house is built and where the stresses are. Planning permissions will almost certainly be required if you want to do more than simply board over the loft joists and you should inform the local planning

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department. It is much simpler and less stressful to obtain the right warrants and permissions before you undertake the work rather than trying to get retrospective permissions when you come to sell your house in the future. The planning officer will ensure your loft extension is safe, and complies with all the building regulations. In the end it will add value to your property. Some loft conversions are simple affairs where the loft floor is boarded over to provide firm standing, and access provided by means of a folding ladder. However for a really useful conversion, as well as flooring, you’ll need windows, perhaps part of the roof raising, properly insulated walls

and ceiling, and a safe and efficient heating system. If the space is to be properly furnished and occupied, you’ll require a proper staircase. Building one and knowing where to place it is in itself, a complicated project and one that requires professionals to be involved from the beginning. If you think your loft is suitable for conversion, get an architect, or local established surveyor to advise you. When the conversion is complete, make sure you inform your insurance company. Loft conversions can be the ideal solution to the problem of accommodating a growing family and are very cost effective when compared to building an extension.

Are you a Landlord? Thinking of Letting? Changing Agent?

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“Problem Solved” Call or email for a free market appraisal E: glasgow@zoneletting.com T: 0141-333-0990 W: www.zoneletting.com SERVING: GLASGOW West End Life Magazine

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2015 !"#$%&'()'*+% ,-' ."#*'/01",&0%' '2'3+4%516+0

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* 20% Discount offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 03-01-16.

!"#$%$&%'"()$*"+,-.$&/0$ %$.1/$2/30$+03"4-$/#$.2-$ 5.-%'42"6$5"0$!%(.-0$5+/.. West End Life magazine has teamed up with Loch Katrine to give our readers the chance to Win a family Ticket for a two hour cruise on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott (value ÂŁ47.50) To enter, simply visit www.westendlife.biz, click on competitions and follow the instructions from there. Closing date 30th September. Good luck!

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New Term... New Start... New Beginning at Native Flowers. Join us for our re-launch party Friday 4th September, 5-8pm It’s a new start for our shop. Freshly re-furbished and ready to welcome you back. A new beginning for us with the launch of Native Gardens... Our gallery is filled with work by local artists; Aline Lidwell, Nicky Runciman, Pauline Austin and Louise McVey. Drop in for nibbles and drinks and help us celebrate!

0141 341 0101

We look forward to hearing from you.

Email info@nativeflowers.co.uk Native Flowers, 27 Clarence Drive, Hyndland, Glasgow G12 9QN 20 | West End Life – August/September 2015

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What is Grain Free Dog Food? Grain free pet foods are currently very popular. But are they really healthier for your pet than other types of pet foods?

While it is true that many pets do well on grain free diets, it is also true that these diets were developed more in response to consumer preference than to the actual nutritional needs of our pets. Nutritionally, the most important aspect of a pet food is whether the food provides complete and balanced nutrition. If the food contains excesses or deficiencies of specific nutrients, the pet will suffer as a result. This concept is true regardless of whether the food contains grains or not. Each ingredient in the diet provides a unique set of nutrients to the overall makeup of the food. Together, the ingredients need to combine to provide a complete nutrient profile for your pet, without any excesses or deficiencies that can cause illness for your pet. It is certainly possible for grain free diets to provide this type of complete nutrition for your pet. However, these diets are not the only option, or even necessarily the best option, for each individual pet. There is not one diet or type of diet that is perfect for all pets.

Does Grain Free Mean Carb Free? Another popular feeding concept that often seems to go hand in hand with feeding grain West End Life Magazine

free pet food is the feeding of a high protein, low carbohydrate diet. High protein, low carbohydrate diets do have their place, particularly in the feeding of diabetic cats. However, it is important not to assume that a grain free diet is a low carbohydrate diet. In fact, some grain free pet foods contain carbohydrate levels similar to or even higher than diets containing grains. In many grain free diets, ingredients such as potatoes replace the grains in the food and often these ingredients have more carbohydrates than the common grains used in pet food. As a result, grain free and low carbohydrate pet foods are not always synonymous with one another.

Is Grain Free Pet Food More Natural? Proponents of grain free diets sometimes claim that grains are an unnatural source of nutrition for our pets. They argue that ancestors of our current-day dogs did not eat grains. However, it could be argued that potatoes and other forms of carbohydrates are no more “natural� for our pets than are grains. Fortunately, our pets have evolved to be able to digest grains as well as many other sources of carbohydrates (including potatoes).

What About Food Allergies

This article appeared originally on www.petmd.com and was written by Lorie Huston.

Another popular misconception that many pet owners fall victim to is the assumption that grain free diets are the best diets for pets with food allergies. While food allergies do occur in pets, corn and other grains are not among the most common allergens found in foods. Feeding a grain free diet is a legitimate option for your pet. However, feeding a grain free diet still requires choosing a diet that includes complete and balanced nutrition for your pet. Choose ingredients with which you, as a pet owner, are comfortable. But remember that in the long run, it is the nutrient profile that is important, not the individual ingredients in the pet food. As with all things related to your pet’s health, your vet is your best source of information regarding pet foods. Your vet is knowledgeable about all types of pet food and can help you determine the type of diet that is best for your pet.

www.westendlife.biz | 21

22 | West End Life – August/September 2015

@westendlife

56,7(2,3(,-(8$, /(,/"&,8((-+,/(-#7999 8((-+ 8((-+,/(-#7999 Santa’s Woodland Experience was inspired by a visit to Christmas Tree Farms throughout America 15 years ago. I saw on a small family farm, a woodland house, where the whole family could walk and meet Santa together. Having grandchildren has stimulated me to try and recreate that experience in my woodland, in Balfron (half an hour north of Glasgow). We have taken the idea a little further to include a trip on the farmers tractor and trailer through the woodland to find Santa’s house. We started in July last year with a target of

trying to attract 200 local children to come with their families, we were overwhelmed with the response, people travelled up to 3 hours from all points in Scotland to visit. Such was the demand for places, we had to open in the evenings as well, which was hugely popular, resulting in just under 2000 children and their families attending. Everyone was so taken by our lighting at night, we have decided to launch a new experience for 2015. ALIVE…….our Woodland Lights Experience (more information on this in the next issue)

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www.westendlife.biz | 23

s e l i F E L Y T S The

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Over the past few years, there has been a definite link between mainstream fashion and sportswear with the two now perfectly combining into something of a fashion powerhouse. Fashion and fitness along with a surge in healthy eating is more of a complete lifestyle choice and as a result designers, shops, restaurants, juice bars gyms and other retailers are really getting involved in this movement. Most designers have either a separate sportswear section or at least incorporate it into their main collections and now many independent sportswear companies like Sweaty Betty and Fabletics (a brand now available in the UK designed by actress Kate Hudson) are capitalising on this booming market by producing their own ranges, many of them now showing and producing ‘seasonal’ fitness clothes just like traditional fashion retailers as our appetite for new sportswear just keeps growing. Not to be outdone, high street retailers like Marks & Spencer, H&M, Gap and even Tesco and Asda all have their own fitness apparel and it has to be said, are pretty good in style and value. Some of you will remember the unfortunate fitness fashion fad of the 80’s when the wearing a neon leotard over leggings accessorised with legwarmers and sweatbands was all the rage, thankfully time moved swiftly on and the majority of us were quite happy to wear an old t-shirt and a pair of well loved trainers. Fast forward to now however and it’s a much nicer picture where looking good whilst 24 | West End – August/September 2015 working out is bigLife business.

@westendlife

Women really do want to be fashion forward with their choices, even if it’s at the gym, the track or the dance/yoga studio and they want to wear individual, unique fitness attire which makes them look and feel great, clothes which they are also happy to wear outside the gym as well as inside. We are now certainly in a time where we are happy to pay top prices for sportswear, where before it was perhaps something of an afterthought.

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Trainers are a huge fashion statement and are now worn by many, young and old on an everyday basis, from getting us to and from work, at our workouts, at the weekend with jeans or with a party dress and everywhere in-between. Sales of trainers are on the increase and with so much choice you shouldn’t find it difficult to get a pair that suits you and your needs. From Chanel to Sports Division yours is out there! So, choose some stylish fitness clothes and trainers, whizz up a healthy delicious smoothie and start your fashion work out, even if it’s just turning the pages of your favourite fashion magazine - you’ve got to start somewhere!

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 25

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5-/647 )) 893,-7)733:, Get involved in Glasgow Doors Open Day! This annual built heritage festival takes place across Glasgow between 14th – 20th September 2015. The festival celebrates the buildings, streets, parks, architecture, history and people of the city with over 100 buildings opening their doors and a programme full of walks, tours, talks and events. This year there is a big focus on Industrial & Technical Heritage of Glasgow helping us to discover how our city has developed. From Whisky Bonds to Carpet Factories to Theatres and Private Homes, there is something for everyone. The best part is that the whole thing is FREE for anyone to get involved.

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DoorS Open Day !"#$%&'($ )*+", -./+,#%. 0.$,+1#"

14≠ 20 September 2015 Access to 108 buildings, with walks, tours, talks & special events Ö all for FREE!

Buchanan Bridge Club - Much admired charming ter¬raced Victorian townhouse with innumerable original features. Formerly the home of David Hutcheson, the founder of Calmac, and subsequently bought by the Buchanan Bridge Club in 1960.

Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund - Built in 1855, this beautiful townhouse in Park Circus has been an operating theatre, archbishop’s residence, convent and is now home to a well-loved Scottish international aid agency. A rare chance to see the charm¬ing original features and striking 1955 Jack Coia remodelling.

Thereí s more than 40 FREE childrení s events!

Best West End Tenements Walk - Ann Laird from Friends of Glasgow West looks at the architecture

#DoorsOpenDays

26 | West End Life – August/September 2015 A3-A4 posters copy.indd 1

Anniesland Court - At 22 storeys, Anniesland Court is the tallest listed building in Scotland and Glas¬gow’s only A-listed tower block. Tours will be taken to a top level for a description of the building and views over the city.

G3 Growers - Tucked in the heart of sandstone tenements, this urban garden is run by the community. Pop in to pick up top tips on growing fruit and vegetables, take part in some hands-on gar¬dening, and watch a cooking demonstration

Doní t forget to check out our rst ever Childrení s Programme!

glasgowdoorsopenday.com

The programme has now been launched and is available to view on www.glasgowdoorsopenday. com And this year there is a brand new Children’s Programme with over 40 events just for the family. But as there are so many we thought we would pick out our top picks of the west end:

29/07/2015 15:46

@westendlife

and history of some of the West End’s forty listed Victo¬rian and Edwardian tenements, including Avril Paton’s famous ‘Windows in the West’ building. Victoria Park Heritage Walk - Sample the heritage and culture of the park from prehistoric times with the Fossil Grove to meeting our 19th century benefactors, and remembering those who died on the SS Daphne and in World War I. Learn too about the park’s wildlife. What does the Tenement mean to you? - An open celebration of the Glasgow Tenement, featuring a new exhibition, talks, performances and free discussion. The Industries of Woodside Talk - Beer, bicycles, boats, brass, bread and buns. For a largely residential area, Woodside developed from the early 19th century, a fascinating range of industrial and commercial activities. This talk will look at some of the buildings associated with that industry and commerce. ‘Mazing Memory Museum - The ’Mazing Memory Museum is a crea¬tive workshop for children placed at the heart of a hay bale maze. Engage in creative activities, learn about Glasgow’s history, and share and record your memories of the transport museum!

Discover your City and explore Glasgow in a new way.

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 27

Being a family business, our priority is to Antonine House, our new flagship private of care services Beingaa standard family business, ourand priority is to Antonine House, our new flagship privatemaintain re home on Roman Road, Bearsden, maintain a standard of careand andquality services care home on Roman Road, Bearsden, that improves the well≠ being of among the countryí s finest, offering improves the well≠ being and quality of is among the countryí s finest, offeringlife that of our residents. hour24≠personal nursing care including life of our residents. hour personal nursing care including pert expert care forcare people with dementia and and WeWestrive strivetotocreate create a a happy happy and and for people with dementia stimulatinghome homewhere where people people enjoy enjoy related conditions. Rooms at Antonine its related conditions. Rooms at Antoninestimulating working living.Residents Residents are are offered offered andand living. far exceed national standardsworking ouse House far exceed national care care standards a variety of activities that can be tailored we provide wide range of quality high qualitya variety of activities that can be tailored d we and provide a widearange of high to their needs, to ensure they can socialise care and personal services including ato their needs, to ensure they can socialise and continue to enjoy hobbies. re and personal services including a hairdressing and beauty salon. and continue to enjoy hobbies. We believe our residents should have rdressing and beauty salon. Owned by Meallmore Ltd, a leading We choices about they do and have how believe our what residents should Scottish provider of nursing residentialchoices theyí reabout cared what for andthey so wedoinvolve them Owned by Meallmore Ltd, aandleading and how we understand thatresidential moving to a and their families in developing their own ottishcare, provider of nursing and theyí re cared for and so we involve them full time residential care home is not a personal care plans. and their families in developing their own re, we understand that moving to a decision that is taken lightly, ití s often seen We listen to what people say and treat care plans. timeas residential careHowever, home isat not a personal a last resort. Antonine them with respect, just as we would want cisionHouse that isCare takenHome, lightly,those ití s often seen will We forlisten our own family people say and treat concerns to what be banished. In fact, making that move can a last resort. However, at Antonine themIfwith respect, just as we would want you are interested in finding out more reward older people with a range of healthfor about Antonine House please call Ms our own family ouse Care Home, those concerns will and social benefits, as well as bringing Bobby Dougan, the care home manager on banished. fact, making that move can 0141are 942interested 4644. familiesIntogether. If you in finding out more ward older people with a range of health about Antonine House please call Ms ANTONINE HOUSE, BEARSDEN d social benefits, as well as bringing Bobby Dougan, the care home manager on 16 Roman Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, 0141 942G61 4644.2SL milies together.

Tel: 0141 942 4644 NTONINE HOUSE, BEARSDEN antonine@meallmore.co.uk 6 Roman Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 2SL www.meallmore.co.uk

el: 0141 942 4644

ntonine@meallmore.co.uk 28 | West End Life – August/September 2015

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www.westendlife.biz | 29

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9%"!&5#67:-5";6<9=8-&!!>-

!7-5-$?9:%# The theory is, give a child a blank wall and it will soon decorate it using what resources come to hand, i.e. pencils, pens, felt tips, water paints, posters and drawings done at school plus other less desirable things. Well the wall might end up decorated but what will it look like? Of course children’s rooms should be a riot of cheerful colour and interest but there are limits. The only way to control the situation is for you to do the decorating - with your child’s tastes and interests very much in mind. Now there are areas where you can economise on decor and areas where you cannot. The woodwork is a case in point. If you intend to paint it, use the very best hard gloss paint you can find. It won’t be the cheapest but it will last. Bear in mind too that the better the preparation of a surface for paint, the longer it will last, so take pains with preparation. Children’s rooms are generally decorated with light colours but they can be very restrictive. White or cream are probably the best because they go with virtually every colour scheme, type of decor and style of furnishing. They also tend to look best as a framework for those posters and pictures most children want on their walls these days. An alternative is to strip down all the woodwork, stain and varnish it. It shows up wear and tear less obviously and again goes with pretty well everything, and it’s a job West End Life Magazine you can do yourself if you’ve the

time and energy. The walls may be colour washed, stencilled or emulsioned all over. Wall coverings can be just too easy to tear and rip off. Papers tear too easily. Vinyls are very expensive and they too will damage if subjected to too many bangs and bumps. If you take the emulsion route, choose a pale but warm shade. Pinky greys, rosy pinks, butternut yellows or deep creams all look pretty when matched with appropriate soft furnishings. Always have sufficient emulsion of the right colour handy for touching up purposes later on. The ceiling can be emulsioned, or papered. Emulsion is best if it’s a good ceiling, closely followed by paper. Choose a darker shade of the wall colour if emulsioning. If papering, choose a cheap and cheerful paper with an interesting design. The floor will take a great deal of wellie that’s for sure. Foam-back, bedroom carpet is fine if the room is not to be used for much other than sleep. If it is doubling as a play room think again, you’ll need something a touch harder wearing. You could sand, stain and varnish the boards and keep it simple. Trouble is, this could be noisy for the rest of the household. Cork floor tiles are a good option because once sealed, they are warm, quiet and hardwearing. They are not all that cheap but they will last for some time. Cushion flooring with a vinyl surface

is good. It washes easily, is relatively quiet and warmer than floorboards. If it’s carpet you prefer, there is an especially tough kitchen carpeting you should consider. It shrugs off stains, washes easily, and will take the patter of tiny feet for years and years before showing any real signs of wear. Not the cheapest option but perhaps the best. Assuming you have the basic furniture for the room, soft furnishings can be your final problem. Curtains are the usual thought but blinds may be more practical - they don’t hang temptingly down for youngsters to swing on, and simple roller blinds are not so very expensive. They may be had in fabrics to match duvet covers, in plain colours to match the decor or in neutral shades to match everything. If you prefer curtains, go to the sales and buy ready-made curtains or fabric to make up yourself and take a tip, linings add to the initial cost but they extend the life of the curtain fabric by a great deal and provide extra insulation. Finally to cheer up those plain walls, look for posters both decorative and educational. Keep your eyes open for free offers in newspapers and magazines. Buy a discarded, framed cheap print from a junk shop and paste your own print or collage over the print you would rather not look at. Your child can help, it’s the sort of thing they like doing and when they get tired of the picture or collage, they can always paste another one over it or | 31 changewww.westendlife.biz the design as they fancy.

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With partners, SDS delivers face to face career information, advice and guidance (CIAG) in schools and SDS centres, as well as support through a contact centre and a dynamic web service My World of Work. SDS is helping people build the skills to manage their career throughout their lifetime, including:

t choosing a career and getting ready for employment

Apprenticeships and Individual

t progressing in the workplace

leads the Scottish Government’s

t up-skilling, such as being able to use new technology

PACE redundancy support

t adapting to change, such as redundancy or transferring skills to something new. In addition to careers services, SDS works with partners to deliver a range of funding and training support for people through these stages, including employability programmes (within the Employability Fund), a Certificate of Work Readiness,Modern

Learning Accounts. SDS also

service and promotes The Big Plus scheme, which helps people improve their numeracy and literacy skills. Along with partners SDS is supporting young people in their transition from school, through learning and into work - delivering Opportunities for All, the Scottish Government’s guaranteed offer of a place in education or training for all 16 to 19-year-olds.

*/0-.J0,3B0-+4./0E1,+/4L-C+2+,-MMMK2@+AA2GBCBA/DEB4,2F/,A14GKF/KJ@ 32 | West End Life – August/September 2015

@westendlife

Learning for Life Are looking to take the next step and planning your career? Then why not look at West College Scotland’s fulltime courses starting this August - It’s not too late to apply! West College Scotland came into being just over two years ago to create a bright future built on strong educational, commercial and international success foundations. To date, many students have benefited from their time of study at the College, which has campuses in Clydebank, Greenock and Paisley. Whether someone joins us straight from school or is returning to education after a gap of a few years, the range of courses at the College are carefully designed to challenge, encourage learning, potentially lead to university and kickstart careers. With limited places still available across our three campuses, in a variety of subject areas including Science, Photography, Media, Hospitality and Beauty, at all levels of study, there is sure to be something for you. West College Scotland is helping its students move towards a brighter future. Make sure you are one of them. For more information on course’s available visit www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk or call 0300 600 60 60.

!"#$%&'(%)#' *#+&,-... /#)0-')1'"2' 2-+''''''''''3 !"#$%&'()* 402'5+12.'67819 :&$'5+12.'67819 62-'5+12.'4;"97:19

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*/0-,3B-A/CB-/.-*014FBKKKAB104-+,L-A+CB-+,KKK Established in 1982, the Alliance Française de Glasgow is one of thirteen AF currently located in the United Kingdom. Run by a Board of Directors, it is located in Glasgow’s Park Circus, under the same roof as the Goethe-Institut since 2004, a world first. A local not-for-profit organisation, it reflects the desire to share with others the love of the French language and culture, as well as other various aspects of the French way of life. We offer regular courses for adults and children of all levels and ages, private tuition to suit your needs, and tailor-made courses to schools, companies and businesses located in the Glasgow area. Our teachers are all native French speakers who are qualified to teach French as a foreign language. Visit www.afglasgow.org.uk www.westendlife.biz | 33

Welcome to the Language Centre Library 7 /$ 5-2 *$ /,(,& ,$3 * ,&2 &$ 7 - 5-2 */$ #5 0.$ ) ,-1'$/ * ,&2 &$ 7 /$. /(,& %-/ 1'$ $4 + 7 ,1$/$01$# (, 3-/*# "(,$+ 7 -(,& -, %-/$(&, '-*(# 5 Whatever your interest in languages you are welcome to join the Language Centre Library The Library offers:- --)0 0 $30. .$/0 & 6(,$0 -/$(&, * ,&2 &$ 0 1$**(1$ 2#(-!--)0 material To find out more, please call or Email:

$*

*" *(!/ /( , /10 &* 0&-3 " 2) 333 &* 0&-3 " 2) * ,&"$,1 34University | West EndofLife – August/September The Glasgow, charity number 2015 SC004401

@westendlife

The Language Centre

Discover a multitude of ways to immerse yourself in language & culture Facilities Many of our members join the Library to borrow our extensive collection of foreign language DVDs. Our French DVD collection alone numbers around 700 films and documentaries. We even hold a couple of Inuit DVDs! Many of the DVDs have English subtitles, so you can enjoy them whatever your foreign language skills. If your mission is to learn a new language for holiday or business, or brush up some

rusty school lessons, our course material ranges from beginners to advanced. CDs, audiobooks and easy readers offer a multitude of ways to immerse yourself in the language of your choice. Membership You can join the Library for 4 months (ÂŁ25.00) or 12 months (ÂŁ45.00). You will be issued with a library card and can borrow up to 7 items at a time. Your loans will be issued for 2 weeks and you can

renew items up to 3 times online, by email, by phone or in person. You can download an application form at: www.glasgow.ac.uk/ langcent under Membership, or we have copies available in the Library. Not sure? Please come and have a look round. The staff will be happy to help you and answer any questions about the Library. Tel: +44 (0)141 330 4117 lc-librarian@arts.glasgow.ac.uk www.glasgow.ac.uk/langcent

% Get 10 wing e s l off al s online classe e code with th MAG ND WESTE

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Advantages of taking a

River cruising is a perfect way to see many of the beautiful parts of Europe, and further afield. There is minimum expense, and normally all meals and excursions are included and prepaid (in sterling) before travelling.

Stress Free Way of seeing Europe and beyond River cruising offers the opportunity to visit interesting towns, cities and picturesque villages, as they normally stop close to the centre of towns and locations. This allows more freedom and time to explore ashore, as well as giving guests the opportunity of returning to the ship for lunch! There is time to relax and enjoy the scenery between calls, either on deck or in

36 | West End Life – August/September 2015

one of the comfortable lounges. A stress-free way of seeing Europe and beyond.

Visit Historic Cities with a vast choice of destinations Most river cruises provide access to many historic cities, using the major rivers of France (Seine, Saone and Rhone), Germany (Rhine, Mosel and Elbe) and the popular Danube, which covers Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia and Romania. Explore

@westendlife

to avoid air travel. Kings Cross is nearby and Euston is about 5 minutes away.

Wonderful standards and great value

Venice, Ravenna, Padua, Ferrara and Verona on the River Po or visit the Douro Valley in Portugal including Lisbon and Porto. Some operators also offer river cruises further afield, to the Russian Waterways, Ukraine and China.

River cruising is a wonderful relaxing way to tour, with no packing or unpacking, and the standards of the ships are generally very high, whether it be a more traditional vessel or one of the brand new modern ships. Food and service levels are very good and there are very few extras, if any, to pay for.

No Fly Options Most departures include English guides, and some are escorted throughout. Several operators now offer rail departures by Eurostar International Rail from London St Pancras International Station - ideal for those wishing

There is now a vast selection of River Cruise Operators so please doesn’t hesitate to contact me for further information and advice. I specialise in organising Tailor-made Holiday & Cruises, Worldwide Itineraries, Honeymoons, Australia & New Zealand, Safaris, USA, and I am a Canadian Specialist.

Look at my Client Testimonials and blogs on www.designertravel.co.uk/simongemmell And for Canada on www.designertravelcanada.co.uk

Tailor-made

!"#$%

Holidays & Cruises

Direct Line: 01475 540350 | Email: simon@designertravel.co.uk West End Life Magazine www.designertravel.co.uk/simongemmell

www.westendlife.biz | 37

A Family Business Since 1994 Where it’s Chemistry, not Chemicals

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Choosing an independent school

By Ellen Arnison

There’s no doubt that everyone wants the very best for their children, it’s only natural. And quite often that best takes the form of deciding to use an independent school. Perhaps the decision to opt out of the state education system felt like a huge one, however, it’s only the beginning of the choices you face.

from the independence it fosters as well as enjoying the ‘whole school day’ experience of comprehensive extracurricular activities. The list of schools within reach of a day pupil will be shorter, however, near cities and the central belt, it is still extensive. Your family’s basic requirements must be the starting point in the

strength in the performing arts. There are plenty of league tables and other measurements to give an idea of the results the school produces. These can be based on exam results or further education the pupils move on to. However, impressive as these may be, they are only part of the picture as there is so much more to a school’s

Some families have a tradition of sending their youngsters to a certain school – perhaps going back generations. While this is a strong motivating factor, it should be borne in mind that much will have changed in the 20 or so years since the parent last set foot in the school. Don’t let loyalty and sentiment cloud such an important issue. A fundamental decision is whether or not for your child to board or be a day pupil. To a certain extent boarding school frees you from considerations of location, although the length of journey will still be a factor when it comes to visits or the start and finish of term. Boarding is a considerably more expensive option, but many parents West End Magazine feel their children getLife great benefit

decision over which of Scotland’s 100 or so independent schools to choose from. Your child’s age, gender, religion, and the location of the school will dictate a great deal. Do you have an opinion about which qualifications you want your child to pursue? For example, many independent schools do offer the Scottish SQA exams, but others offer the English curriculum or the International Baccalaureate. Will the school you’re looking at meet your child’s particular needs? For example, does it have the sports facilities they want or offer the specific courses or instruction required? If your son or daughter shows great promise as an athlete, then it’ll help if the school can offer coaching and somewhere to train. Other schools have a particular

success than exam passes. What’s much more important is to visit the school, meet pupils and former pupils. Ask questions and observe, get a real feeling for the school as it is today. What’s the ethos? How does it make you feel? If you can’t make it to a school’s open day, pop in and ask to have a look around? Sometimes it’s even better to do this on a ‘normal’ school day anyway, to get a better, more natural feel for things. Chat to pupils and parents if you get the chance – this should tell you everything you need to know. But perhaps the most important person to talk to is your child – they, after all, are the one who is going to be most | 39 affectedwww.westendlife.biz by your decision.

At Kelvinside Academy

Small Class Sizes make for

Big Lessons

Open Day Saturday 19th September 1.30 - 4.00pm

School Bus Service Provided

Junior & Senior School Tours: 33 Kirklee Road, G12 0SW Nursery Tours: Balgray Campus, 40 Chesterfield Ave, G12 0BL 40 | West End Life – August/September 2015

kelvinsideacademy.org.uk

@westendlife

Kelvinside

Academy

At Kelvinside Academy, an independent coeducational day school for children from 3 to 18 years, we aim to educate the individual as a whole – mind, body and spirit. Allan Gilliland, Rector at Kelvinside Academy, explains why a Kelvinside education will make a difference to your child’s academic and personal development. I am often asked by parents what sets Kelvinside Academy apart from other schools. I tell them that there are three main reasons for choosing Kelvinside Academy.

t The right size Firstly, with a school roll of just under 600 pupils, Kelvinside Academy is large enough to provide a rich and challenging curriculum, both in and out of the classroom, and small enough to know each individual child. An all through school, Kelvinside Academy is a community with a family feel. We give pupils the individual attention they need and this is underpinned by high quality pastoral care and outstanding relationships. Every child can feel and believe that he or she is valued and supported by the system; no one is lost in the crowd.

t The right challenge The second reason is that students of all ages are inspired and encouraged to think for themselves, ask questions and strive for excellence. Academic endeavour is balanced by the wide variety of extracurricular opportunities, such as sport, outdoor education, music, drama, clubs, cadets and community service, through which young people can express themselves and find their inner strengths. Challenges in and out of the classroom move boys and girls out of their comfort zones so that they discover more about themselves and the world around them.

West End Life Magazine

These challenges foster self-confidence, enterprise, resilience, leadership, service and teamwork. Students leave Kelvinside as independent, well qualified and well rounded young people.

t The right values Third and most importantly, Kelvinside Academy combines traditional values with a modern vision of why we educate children and of the skills and qualities we want young people to have. Parents share the vision and values of the school, including high expectations of courtesy and conduct. What makes a Kelvinside education different and special is the unique way it combines individual attention and inspiring teaching within a happy and disciplined environment. Our next Open Day is on Saturday 19th September at 1.30pm. Please come along to experience school life at Kelvinside Academy, meet pupils and teachers and really get a feel for the school. If you can’t make Open Day you are welcome to tour our Nursery, Junior and Senior Schools at a time that is convenient for you, please call Kerry Bottomley, Director of Admissions on 0141 357 3376.

www.westendlife.biz | 41

BUDDHIST CENTRE

The Glasgow Buddhist Centre has offered classes in meditation and Buddhism for 40 years, helping people become more positive and calm and to lead more meaningful lives. Forthcoming Events Life With Full Attention An eight week mindfulness course beginning Tuesday 8th September, 7 - 9.30pm. Cost: £130 waged or £65 low/unwaged, which includes Maitreyabandhu’s book. Buddhism and Meditation Levels 1, 2 and 3 of our six week courses begin Wednesday 23rd September, 7.30 - 9.40pm. Cost: £66 waged or £33 low/unwaged. Meditation Introduction to Meditation six week course begins Saturday 19th September 10.30am - 12.30pm. Cost: £66 waged or £33 low/unwaged. All courses include a Day Retreat on Sunday 1st November. Regular drop-in meditation classes for beginners & regulars on Wed 12.30 - 1pm and Thursdays from 10.30am - 12 noon. For Yoga and Tai Chi courses, please see our website.

329 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3HW Tel: 0141 333 0524 Email: gbc@glasgowbuddhistcentre.com www.glasgowbuddhistcentre.com

Dorothy Perkins

THE GLASGOW

!"# teen STYLE $%&#' Back to School 2015 Although our school life may not be as scandalous as in gossip girl or as chirpy as at McKinley High it is once again nearly upon us. As the holidays draw to a close update your school style with pieces inspired by classic school girl style (ie. plaid skirts, neck ties and scrunchies)

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@westendlife

CLASSES | CLUBS | MEETINGS | EVENTS | TALKS | EXHIBITIONS West End Life publishes details of classes, group meetings, local clubs and any one off or regular events within the West End Life distribution area. To have your submission included in the magazine and on the website please send details to charles@ westendlife.biz . Our deadline dates for the coming year are available on our website. Dowanhill, Hyndland and Kelvinside Community Council Meet 2nd Monday of each month at Hillhead Sports Club (normally upstairs in the clubhouse) at 7:30pm 32 Hughenden Road GLASGOW G12 9XP

Hillhead Sports Club Hillhead Sports Club, a multi-sport, fitness and social club based at Hughenden in the West End of Glasgow Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Fitness, Shinty, Frisbee & more. Visit www.hillheadsportsclub. com for more information.

Community Councils Broomhill CC 2nd Wednesday every month at 7.00pm in Broomhill Primary School www.communitycouncils glasgow.org.uk/broomhill Hillhead CC Meet 2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm www.hillheadcc.org.uk North Kelvin CC Meet 3rd Tuesday every month Venue: St Charles’ Church Hall, 1 Kelvinside Gardens, G20 6BG Jordanhill CC Meet 1st Monday of the month except July and August in Jordanhill Church Hall, Woodend Drive, at 7.15 p.m. www.jordanhillcc.org Scotstoun Community Council Monthly meetings on last Thursday of each month (except July & December) 7.30pm Heart of Scotstoun Community Centre, Balmoral St, Glasgow G14 0BL scotscoco@gmail.com West End Life Magazine

Western Health and Racquets Club In the heart of Glasgow’s West End, the Western Health & Racquets Club is the ideal place for everyone to play sport, get fit & have a good time. www.glasgowwestern.co.uk

Farmers Markets Enjoy a delicious range of affordable, healthy and locally produced food. You’ll find a wide variety of seasonal vegetables, fresh fruit, quality meat, free range eggs, bread, cakes, cheese and fresh street food. Partick, Mansfield Park 2nd & 4th Saturday 10am-2pm Milngavie, Douglas Street 1st Wednesday 10am - 2pm

Outdoor Activities & Exercise Mugdock Country Park There are lots of things to see and do at Mugdock Country Park. You can see a full range of activities at www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk - there is something to suit everyone and some great summer holiday events for all the family.

Park Run Pollok Country Park, Springburn Park, Tollcross Park & Victoria Park Every Saturday at 9.30am Sign up for this free weekly 5K park run. Register at www.parkrun.org.uk Junior Park Run Victoria Park. Every Sunday at 9.20am. Weekly timed runs for children aged 4 - 14 years. For more information visit www.parkrun.org.uk

www.westendlife.biz | 43

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!"#$%&"'()*(+,-./"#(0"&&$"(1-23$&45#,6(!"#$%&'"(&)*&+(,&-".%((7.58$'"#(-&("92"//"&4(2:/4:.-/(-44.-24$5&(-&'(45:.$#4('"#4$&-4$5&6( !"#$%&'"(&)*&+(,&-".%( !"#$%&'"(&)*&+(,&-".%((7.58$'"#(-&("92"//"&4(2:/4:.-/(-44.-24$5&(-&'(45:.$#4('"#4$&-4$5&6( while also being one of the city’s finest wedding and events venues. The House is home to the popular Art Lovers Café, Gallery and Shop and hosts regular art, design and architecture related events in its purpose built studios and seminar rooms.

West End Life Magazine www.westendlife.biz | 45 (( (( e: info@houseforanartlover.co.uk (( (( w: www.houseforanartlover.co.uk 4;(<=>=(?@?(>AA< ■

■

The Garden in September

September can be a lovely time in the garden. It is a time when everything seems to have reached a stage of mellow stability. Cooler evenings however are starting to turn the leaves to those gorgeous yellows, reds and golds that are the typical shades of a Scottish autumn. The weather on the whole, is as changeable now as at any other time of the year, though it is usually dryer than August, so watering is still a priority. Maintain the habit of watering morning and evening however, because that midday sun can still be surprisingly hot. Summer flowers will be drawing to the end of their time but you can keep things going a little longer by assiduous dead-heading. Put the cut heads on the compost heap, they are just what the doctor ordered. Bulbs and corms should go in this month if you are to be sure of a good spring show. You can leave it a bit if you must, but you risk being confronted with bad weather later on and it’s all too easy to be put off at such times. Don’t just think daffodils, there are loads of other possibilities such as chionodoxa, fritillaria, irises, muscari, ornithogalum puschkinia, and scilla. Then there are crocuses, and of course all the huge family of narcissi, plus tubers and rhyzomes of anemones, eranthis, erythronium and ranunculas. Hyacinths and tulips can go in in October or even November, but you’ll do them no dis-service by getting

them in around now. Remember, the earlier you get all your bulbs in, the earlier they will flower, and the healthier they will be as well. Now is the time to be sowing hardy annuals for next year’s garden glory. Look for those old favourites such as calendulas,

cornflowers, eschscholzia, gypsopilia larkspur, mallow, scabious, love-in-a-mist, Shirley poppies, and pansies. You just can’t beat them for durability and show. While you are at it, consider getting some winter flowering pansies in. These can go in any suitable borders, but they do especially well in patio tubs. Mature root crops should be lifted toward the end of the month, especially carrots. You can always store excess crops in an outdoor clamp. Parsnips on the other hand can be left in

46 | West End Life – August/September 2015

the ground till you need them. If you’ve potatoes in the ground, start getting them up as soon as the haulms begin to turn yellow because the tubers won’t grow any more. Now is a good time to take rose cuttings. A great many folk overlook this method of propagating roses though it is an excellent way of increasing your stock. You’ll find most self-coloured varieties root pretty easily, though don’t expect flowers for at least two years. Keep all rose beds as clear of fallen leaves as possible, hoe regularly and stop any supplementary feeding to ensure the formation of firm, sturdy wood before winter sets in. Do look to your lawn this month. It is a good time to be repairing and renovating. Sow seed as soon as you have sites prepared. They will germinate readily in the autumn sunshine and will have become well established before winter really sets in. You can also lay down turf paths this month. Just cut away the worn area, fork over the exposed soil, dress with an autumn fertilizer and a little sharp sand, then press in a new piece of turf. Do however keep an eye on the weather before walking on lawns at this time of year. A light, early morning frost can cause grass to become brittle, and it should not be walked upon till the frost has melted away.

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