West End Life December16

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18,000 Homes

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Win tickets to the IRN-BRU Carnival! p8

Christmas Gift Guide p16 Nick Nairn’s Christmas Recipe p30 Hillhead ■ Broomhill ■ Hyndland ■ Kelvinside ■ Jordanhill ■ Scotstoun ■ Claythorn ■ Bearsden ■ Milngavie

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Wishing all our Readers & Advertisers Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

4 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

8

Win tickets for IRN-BRU Carnival Dunedin Consort perform Handel’s Messiah

9 10 14

Christmas Presents on a Budget What’s on Guide Remember Board Games this Christmas Christmas Gift Guide Style Files Choosing a Christmas Tree Avoiding New Year Debt Win Nick Nairn Cook School Voucher Nick Nairn’s Christmas Recipe

20

16

15 16 20 24 27 28 30

21

30

10 Contributors this issue: Kieran Gallagher, Jodie Molyneux, Marilyn Thomson

Christmas Issue 37, 2016 Publisher: Life Magazines & Publications Ltd Editor Charles Briggs

Features Editor: Joanne Simms joanne@westendlife.biz Advertising Sales: Lisa Sanderson lisa@westendlife.biz

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

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

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 5

What is Neurophysiotherapy?

Neurophsyiotherapy is a specialism within physiotherapy that focuses on the rehabilitation of people affected by a neurological condition.

I specialise in the treatment of: • Stroke • Brain Injury • Parkinson’s Disease • Functional Neurological Disorders • Multiple Sclerosis and CIDP • Guillan-Barre Syndrome • Myasthenia Gravis

• Expert in the treatment and rehabilitation of those with a neurological condition • I provide specialist rehabilitation and re-ablement services from Acute onset/diagnosis to long-term condition management • Expert in the rehabilitation of the older adult Falls prevention, post operative rehab, balance and mobility.

• I help you take charge of your life and re-gain your independence

I also specialise in the treatment of conditions affecting the older adult • Falls and Balance problems • Loss of Mobility • Post-Operative therapy (e.g. following knee and hip replacement or arm injury)

• Have your therapy in the comfort of your own home with my home visit service or, alternatively, we can arrange a clinic appointment within the West End of Glasgow

Tel: 07988 015190 | Email: fraser@simpsonphysio.co.uk www.simpsonphysio.co.uk

physiotherapy services to my clients. Specialist rehabilitation following a neurological event, such as a stoke, can maximise the recovery process, transform the long term outcomes of such conditions and enable my clients to reach their full potential.

exercise, muscle facilitation and manual therapy techniques, and assistive technology to help my clients achieve their goals.

Simpson Physiotherapy is an independent provider of NeuroPhysiotherapy and Older Adults Rehabilitation Services.

Falls and loss of mobility affect many people as they get older.

My older peoples services can improve your walking, balance and confidence. I work with you to reduce the likelihood of further falls and get you back on your feet doing the activities you enjoy. I can help support you back into your own home following a hospital admission and I also provide post-surgical rehabilitation, e.g. following hip or knee replacement.

Having qualified with a Masters level degree in Physiotherapy in 2007, I have worked within the NHS where I specialised in working with adults with neurological conditions and older people requiring rehabilitation. I founded Simpson Physiotherapy in order to provide high quality

Many of the people asking for my help have difficulty getting to and from clinic appointments. My home visit service enables you to receive your therapy within the comfort of your own home. For those who are more mobile, I can also offer clinic appointments within the West End of Glasgow.

As a neuro-physiotherapist I am an expert in the treatment of those affected by neurological conditions, such as stroke and brain injury, Parkinson’s Disease, Guillan-Barre, Multiple Sclerosis, and many others. I use therapeutic

6 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

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Cue the lights & screams…

The IRN-BRU Carnival is back!

It’s that time of year again, from Wednesday 21 December 2016 until Sunday 15 January 2017* the ultimate adrenaline lovers’ playground, the IRN-BRU Carnival, is set to take over the SECC, Glasgow once again.

To celebrate its return, we’ve teamed up with IRN-BRU Carnival to offer readers the chance to win one of ten pairs of tickets to the ultimate festive day out.

To enter, visit www.westendlife.biz and click on competitions.

Closing date for entries Friday 16th December 2016.

Celebrating 96 years of family fun, the IRN-BRU Carnival is Europe’s largest indoor funfair with over 65 rides and attractions. Making its big return this year is the gravity-defying ‘Sticky wall’, along with thrill rides ‘King Loops’ and ‘Superbowl’, and the ‘Ice Mirror Maze’ for kids.

Other thrill rides include the Speed Buzz, Sea Storm and Drop Zone.

There are family favourites such as the dodgems, carousel, ghost train and waltzers. Also back by popular demand for a second year is the Inflatable Play Area, where kids can bounce until their hearts are content.

As a family ‘must do’, make sure to book now to enjoy easy entry in to the hall.

Entry price is £13 with visitors receiving ten vouchers which can be used on all rides, Inflatable Play and most stalls (Each ride is one voucher, most stalls are two vouchers and Inflatable Play is three vouchers).** For full information please visit www.irn-bru-carnival.com. *Closed Christmas Day **Some stalls are cash taking

Terms & Conditions. This competition is open to all adults over the age of 18. All entries must include the name and contact details of the entrant. Entries will not be considered if they do not have all information specified. Winners will be chosen at random, this decision is final. Prize is one pair of tickets to the IRN-BRU Carnival. Prize is only valid for one day. This prize has no cash alternative, is non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Travel is not included. The IRN-BRU Carnival reserves the right to refuse entry without explanation.

8 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

Dunedin Consort perform

Handel’s Messiah Dunedin Consort returns to Bute Hall, University of Glasgow on 18th December to perform Handel’s Messiah.

Matthew Brook, both international soloists and regular Dunedin Consort collaborators.

Under the musical direction of John Butt the ensemble has established itself as the leading Scottish Baroque ensemble, performing at the nation’s major festivals and across the world. It broadcasts frequently on BBC Radio 3 and BBC Scotland and has won several big awards, including two Gramophone Awards, for its growing recording catalogue.

Dunedin Consort’s annual performances of Handel’s Messiah at Christmastime have become a regular fixture for many, bringing in Christmas with the beauty and power of Handel’s score.

As well as the evening performance of the full work beginning at 7pm, Dunedin Consort will perform a Children’s Messiah in the afternoon at 4pm. Having had great success with the Children’s Messiah in Edinburgh over the past two years, the group will perform highlights from the choral masterpiece in a 45-minute event for children and families. The audience are taken on an interactive journey through the music with explanations and participatory games.

Well-known Scottish-born soprano Mhairi Lawson is soloist alongside tenor Nicholas Mulroy and bass

Tickets for both events are available via www.dunedin-consort.org.uk

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It’s a wrap:

Christmas Presents Right off the bat, there is something I should confess: I could take or leave Christmas.

I would sacrifice the black ice, near-permanent darkness and hordes of shoppers for a year-long summer of picnics in the park, late night drinks on open terraces and freckles but alas...that’s how how weather works and so for this article, I will take inspiration from the latest throwaway lifestyle trend: hygge. This Danish concept can be loosely translated to ‘cosiness’ and subscribes to the idea that we should take pleasure in the simple things; making rituals of making tea, lighting candles and ‘creating intimacy’ within the home. With this in mind, I will try to embrace the cheesy festive season; the music (more pennies in Slade’s pocket), the food (let’s be honest, that one isn’t hard!) but most of all, the presents!

2016 has been a slap-in-theface of a year and most of us are approaching Christmas with odd socks, back-to-front trousers and glasses askew; needless to

By Jodie Molyneux

on a budget say, we’re unprepared. Christmas is a great opportunity to show family and friends how important they are to you and how much you appreciate everything they have done in the past year but what do you do when your mum deserves an all-expenses paid trip to the Bahamas but all you can afford is a wilted bunch of anaemic roses from a petrol station?

warm and made me laugh. Many of the items in care packages can be bought at pound shops, or could even be homemade, and so can be rustled up for maximum smugness at minimum cost. Here are some ideas:

For the solution, I suggest we look to the American tradition of ‘care packages’. Often sent to new students away at college, the packages typically include numerous gifts of little financial value but when combined together, create a tailored and thoughtful selection of presents.

I am fortunate enough to have a wonderful family who, for the six years I have lived away from home, have sent me many packages that have cheered me up, kept me

• For a book addict: cosy blanket, selection of magazines, good book, quality bar of chocolate.

10 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

• For someone who loves to be cosy: hot chocolate sachets, marshmallows, cosy socks, cuddly toy.

• For a beauty fanatic: a couple of nail polishes, a face mask sachet, hand cream, bath bomb.

• For a foodie: write up a selection of favourite recipes, homemade infused olive oil, new apron.

Go forth and be merry!

@westendlife

By Jo Simms

THE GLASGOW

BUDDHIST CENTRE

Triratna Glasgow Buddhist Centre has more than 40 years experience in helping make the Buddha’s teaching relevant in our lives today.

Buddhism and Meditation Discover the Buddha’s path of happiness on our six week course beginning Wednesday 18th January and 15th March, 2017.

7.30 - 9.40 pm.

Meditation Learn ways of becoming more positive and calm on our six week courses beginning Tuesdays 17th January and 14th March, 2017.

No charge, donations gratefully received.

Regular weekly drop in meditation for beginners and regulars on Wednesdays 12.30-1pm & Thursdays 10.30-11.30am.

Now Stockin W T: 01505 703756 M: 07773 107450 ood Pell g and Ir ets E: info@balticfirewood.co.uk is Peat h www.balticfirewood.co.uk

For Yoga and Taiji classes, please see our website.

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

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Holmes Mackillop Solicitors

109 Douglas Street Glasgow G2 4HB Phone 0141 226 4942 35 William Street Johnstone PA5 8DR Phone 01505 328 271 www.holmesmackillop.co.uk

M

Our specialist knowledge enables us to provide a high quality service to our clients.

We advise on the following: • Buying & selling your home • Charities • Commercial Property • Company start-ups, acquisitions & sales • Employment • Family & Divorce • Litigation • Wills, Estates & Powers of Attorneys We would delighted to offer readers of West End Life a 10% discount. Please quote “West End Life” Contact Stuart McNeill on 0141 226 2300 stuartmcneill@homack.co.uk 12 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

Commitment Professionalism Experience Holmes Mackillop are Solicitors who have practised in Glasgow for nearly 100 years (and through their original office have over 200 years of history). The advice which we give to clients is the advice which we would want to receive ourselves and at a reasonable cost. As we too are a business operating in a competitive world, our commercial clients benefit from practical support and cost effective solutions to issues ranging from the preparation of contracts, terms and conditions for businesses, contractual disputes and resolution and in the ever changing world of Employment Law. When it comes to personal family matters, we pride ourselves in the number of long-standing clients whom we advise (some second and third generation). Much of our private client work (which includes Wills, Trust, Executries and Residential Conveyancing) comes from recommendations from existing clients.

We aim to support and guide clients in a very wide range of services, from the business startup and purchasing your first home to “Third Life� estate planning and retirement.

With an ever-increasing ageing population, we are finding that planning for the future and for the

next generation is coming into high focus and exercising the minds of our clients. In particular, Care Home costs are a hot topic.

ensure that as much of their Estate as possible is moved downwards to the next generation.

Healthcare is thought to be free at the point of need in the UK but residential care has never been free. The cost of Care Home accommodation has increased at a faster rate than inflation. Local Authorities means test to see who should pay and how much.

The major concern is whether the family home will have to be sold to meet costs.

Holmes Mackillop provides tailormade advice to clients who, together with their families, wish to make effective plans not only to ensure that Care Home costs can be met but that hard-earned assets can be protected as much as possible not only for clients but for the next generations.

However, there are steps which can be taken by those who see the impending need for residential or nursing care and who wish to

Holmes Mackillop

We will be happy to meet with you to discuss not only Care Home costs but any other issues which matter to you and your family.

Solicitors

M

Westinstance, End Life Magazine www.westendlife.biz | 13 In the first please contact Stuart McNeill on 0141 226 4942.

CLASSES | CLUBS | MEETINGS | EVENTS | TALKS West End Life publishes details of regular classes, group meetings, local clubs and any 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.

Health and Wellbeing Boiler Room Fitness Spinning Studio Dedicated Spinning/Indoor Cycling Studio located within Western Health & Racquets Club, Hyndland Road, Glasgow.

We Spin Every Day To Get Fit So Should You! Email: boilerroomfitness.co.uk 07825 681824 Yoga with Fiona Dewar at Partick Burgh Halls.

Classes are friendly and non-competitive.

Monday 8pm-9pm Wednesday 6:30pm-7:30pm Saturday 9:30am-11am Email: deepchandi108@gmail.com Zumba with Jo Storrar Monday, Tuesday & Thursday at 6pm-7pm in Maryhill Community Central Halls, 304 Maryhill Road, G20 7YE. Classes are £4 each and open to everyone.

Zumba is Latin-based dance fitness suitable for all shapes, sizes, fitness levels & co-ordination levels come join the party!

Email: jo@zumbaglasgow.com Tel: 07723012843 Young at Heart Dance The classes, which are aimed at the 50 plus age group, have grown in popularity with some people in their 80s also taking advantage of improving their health through joining in the dance classes.

Dance is a great way to exercise at any age but as we get older

it’s even more important to keep active and mobile.

Monday 2-3pm Hyndland Hall G12 9PU Tuesday 10.30am-11.30am St Joseph’s Church G62 8DZ Tuesday 12-1pm Kessington Hall G61 2DP Contact Natasha Guinnessy on 07766949788 or email tashyguinnessy@yahoo.com

Talks Clyde Shiplovers Society Meeting held in Partick U.F. Church Hall, Thornwood Terr.

G11 7QZ Thursdays at 7.30pm For more information, contact Paul Strathdee at glenfalloch63@hotmail.co.uk 8th December Film Night Joint meeting with CCA Christmas with the Waverley and other previously unseen DVDs

Community Councils Broomhill CC 2nd Wednesday of the month with the exception of January, July and August. The meetings are held in Broomhill Primary School Annexe, 67 Randolph Road, Glasgow G11 7EE from 7pm-9pm. www.broomhillcc.wordpress.com broomhillcommunitycouncil@gmail.com Hillhead CC Meet 2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm www.hillheadcc.org.uk

14 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

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 at 7pm Jordanhill School, 45 Chamberlain Road, Glasgow, G13 1SP www.jordanhillcommunitycouncil.org.uk Facebook: Jordanhill Community Council Twitter: @JordanhillCC Scotstoun CC Monthly meetings on last Thursday of each month (except December) 7.30pm Heart of Scotstoun Community Centre, Balmoral Street, Glasgow G14 0BL Email: scotscoco@gmail.com Dowanhill, Hyndland and Kelvinside CC Meet 2nd Monday of each month at Hillhead Sports Club (normally upstairs in the clubhouse) at 7pm 32 Hughenden Road Glasgow G12 9XP Claythorn CC Meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month from September to June 7pm-9pm in the board room at Glasgow Clyde College Anniesland Campus, Hatfield Drive, Glasgow except when the College is closed and the meeting is either transferred to the first or third Tuesday of the month. www.Claythorncc.wordpress.com Email: claythorn@gmail.com @westendlife

Remember Board Games this Christmas They’re anything but boring!

By Sophie Robinson

Despite the increasing popularity of computer and electronic games, good old fashioned board games still have their place. There are websites dedicated to fans of the genre, and when I posted a request on Facebook for recommendations, I was inundated with suggestions. Yes, a passion for this type of gaming is still very much alive!

As a child, I spent rainy Saturday afternoons sprawled across the living room carpet engrossed in a game of Monopoly. British weather being what it is, mum would entertain us three children for several hours with this rather long winded game that has aptly been renamed ‘Monotony’ by some!

The most memorable games always involved dad. He was kind, fair and compassionate by nature, but once involved in a game of Monopoly, a much darker side would emerge. If he met with bad luck at the start, he would tug at our heart strings, persuade us to part with valuable properties for next to nothing, talk us into letting him off rent, and then end up winning by placing about fourteen hotels on Park Lane! Merciless, totally merciless.

Scrabble is another favourite. Mum and I have enjoyed many an hour challenging one another’s wits and word power. It’s a great way to improve vocabulary and spelling skills, but neither is required to win. Dad was notorious for his somewhat unorthodox spellings and when it was his turn, he would pour over the board for what seemed like hours, giving mum time to make a drink, eat a round of toast and watch

West End Life Magazine

the l a t e s t episode of Coronation Street, before placing his three letter word that included an x and z over a triple letter word-score and earning himself in excess of 100 points. Strategy was always the key, and he was not lacking in that department!

I remember the time the family played Pictionary on a caravan holiday. We laughed and teased and giggled at one another’s attempts at drawing, but none were as funny as dad’s rendition of a horse. It took us the best part of an hour to identify it and the cup and saucer that followed weren’t much better!

Fun, friendship and family time together are all reasons why board games continue to be as popular now as ever. Nothing can replace that feeling of camaraderie that comes with physical proximity as you nudge elbows and knock knees, or even the board itself, while engrossed in the very serious business of trying to beat down your opponents.

All the better if those opponents are blood-relatives!

There are always new games coming out and new additions for this year include Don’t Panic for all the family and a great new game for 16+, called Speak Out. There is a whole host of games out there just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed! Go get yourself one this Christmas! www.westendlife.biz | 15

West End Life

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‘O hush the noise, ye men of strife, And hear the angels @westendlife sing.’

16 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

hristmas Gift Guide ‘Hark! the herald angels sing Glory to the new-born King!’

Geraldos

Geraldo’s in Largs has a wide range of luxury handmade chocolates, gift confectionery & premium spirits. Formerly Sugar & Spice, the shop is packed full of delicious festive treats.

Visit us or buy online at www.geraldos.co.uk or call 01475 675200

Janet and John

Beautiful beeswax candles hand made in Aberdeenshire, by the Feith Hill Candle Company. These beeswax candles have no added scents or colouring, we use 100% pure beeswax and additive free cotton wicks keeping them completely natural with a heavenly honey aroma.

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J Climie Butchers

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I ‘ willWest honour in my heart and try to keepwww.westendlife.biz it all the year.’

End LifeChristmas Magazine | 17

“Natalie makes it such fun I don’t even realise that I am working out. The classes are full of joy and laughter.” Katie danceSing is a new class combining dance, singing and friendship. danceSing has been created by professionally trained ballet dancer and fitness guru Natalie Garry. Natalie is passionate about helping people find balance and wellbeing in their lives through singing, dancing, fun and friendship in a relaxed and exclusive environment.

What happens at a danceSing class?

Your first class is a FREE TASTER There is always a friendly welcome.

EveryoneAD_135 is encouraged to work danceSing x 90_Layout 1 at a level that is appropriate to themselves and without pressure.

First you sing with a professionally

PUTTING

trained music leader. There is no audition and you don’t need to be able to read music. You just need to want to sing and enjoy yourself.

Our songs are drawn from a variety of genres.

“I was told that I couldn’t sing at school. I realise that I can sing and it brings me such joy” Carole The second part of the class is all about dancing. Natalie guides you through different genres of dance.

The class is cleverly structured to work the whole body and includes cardio fitness elements. The steps are simply broken down into 18/11/2016 17:00 Page 1 achievable parts and build up over each term.

There is no pressure to perform

THE

FUN

we DANCE and we SING Wednesday 10.30am - 12pm The Western Baths Club Glasgow G12 8BZ

IN

TO

but for those who wish, people combine from other classes and so far we have given performances at the Mhor Festival, Sundown Midsummer’s Night at The Kelpies, flashmobs at Marks and Spenser’s raising funds for MacMillan and at the Macrobert Arts Centre. danceSingers are very social and frequently go for coffee after daytime classes. We are becoming a family of friends with members attending more than one class and enjoying lunches, coffee and social activities.

Natalie would like to invite you and your friends to a FREE TASTER. She is looking forward to dancing and singing with you soon.

KEEPING FIT

FIRST

CLAS S is a FREE TAST ER!

Membership NOT required

Call Natalie on 07712 862823

www.dance-sing.uk

Fun & Friendship • Health & Wellbeing 18 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

Upper Floor, De Courcy’s Arcade Cresswell Lane, Hillhead, Glasgow G12 8AA

Shop handmade this Christmas

A unique range of Scottish arts & crafts perfect for gifts and stocking fillers Opening Times

Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5.30pm Sunday 12 - 5pm Open Mondays in December 11am - 5.30pm

www.janetandjohnscotland.com janet@janetandjohnscotland.com West End Life Magazine

facebook.com/janetandjohn • twitter.com/JandJScotland www.westendlife.biz | 19

theStyle files

by Marilyn Thompson

It’s Party Time!

The festive season is once again almost upon us, the shops are crammed full of such pretty things to tempt us and our to do lists just keep getting longer and longer. In the run up to Christmas and New Year and the slight madness

that it all brings, remember to treat yourself to a glamorous festive outfit (or two) ensuring you are the super stylish hostess, the perfectly elegant guest or the belle of the ball.

Entertaining at home You’ll want to be in control of all things including the way you look and feel - so the way to go should be comfortable but certainly stylish. Look out for easy to wear, non-restrictive clothes and add some fabulous accessories. This should allow you to entertain with confidence ensuring that everyone is well looked after - concentrating on being the perfect hostess whilst not having to worry about being uncomfortable in what you’re wearing.

Parties, Work events & Dining out As a guest, you get the chance to be a lot more glamorous as you only really have to think about yourself - so take the chance to release your inner sparkle, dressing to highlight your best features. Shine in luxurious fabrics, sparkles, sequins, lace and fur finished off with pretty hair and make up to match.

Tis the season to be jolly - Seas 20 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

Dinner Dances, Balls & Cocktail Parties Now’s your chance to really go to town and dress to impress with beautiful dresses and outfits to suit each and every taste. Of course, everything is available, from supremely elegant classic evening wear to much more outrageous and over the top ensembles.

Ultimately, your personality will determine the style you choose but this is the absolutely perfect opportunity to add that extra sprinkle of feminine charm. The choice is, of course yours alone but whatever you decide upon - wear it with lots of confidence and a festive smile.

The teen STYLE Files Jingle Bell

ROCK!

The trusty LBD will always be a quick fix for a festive evening outfit but this party season it’s time to sparkle! Swap to a sequinned showstopper which along with disco metallics, luscious velvets and faux furs (all being key trends for Xmas 2016) will make sure you are ready to rock around the Christmas tree at your Christmas party hop!

HAIR

Finish off your festive look by tying a simple but cute ribbon in a bow around a low pony tail or around your head like an Alice band - you’ll be as pretty as a present!

Fashion & beauty notes...

Stuck for gift ideas? Well, a set of new make-up brushes shouldn’t go amiss, especially when they are functional and super cute like these MAC 2016 limited edition “Nutcracker Sweet” ones!

GadgetS www.johnlewis.com

Light up monogram bauble £5

Celebrity do’s & don’ts - Velvet • Do choose rich jewel shades • Do keep it simple • Do keep it modern • Don’t over accessorise • Don’t wear it if it’s ill-fitting

Your Fashion Questions Answered?

Do - Stella Maxwell Don’t - Rita Ora

Q - Hi Holly, coming up to Christmas what is a comfy but stylish style of party shoe to wear during the season? Abby 12

sons Greetings & Happy Holidays!

West End Life Magazine

A - Hi Abby, try a classic Mary Jane style shoe with just a little block heel. These are on trend, really cute and super glittery silver versions that would go with most outfits can be found at H&M and Topshop right now! Holly x Get in touch - To learn more about The FASHION Class for teens & children, the courses, camps and Birthday parties, or to tell me what you think and ask any questions, contact: www.westendlife.biz holly@thefashionclass.co.uk or www.thefashionclass.co.uk

| 21

Making care mean mo

Offering high quality, personalised nurs

Antonine House Suite Antonine e Hofoouursneewest and

e is on This luxury hom ality care, range of high qu e id w a es id ov pr e art facilities. with state of th

Rooftop Terrace 22 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

GS E IN BL EW A VI AIL AV

ore in Bearsden

sing care in a homely environment

Antonine House offers luxury suites along with a range of services, including: • 24-hour nursing care for the elderly and those living with Dementia

• • • • • • •

Fine cuisine served in nine dining rooms Easily accessible roof top terrace and landscaped garden Event and activities programme Reminiscence room Hairdressing and beauty salon Cinema room Private resident transport

Contact home manager Ms Bobby Dougan to arrange a visit on 0141 942 4644.

To find out more information: E-mail: info@meallmore.co.uk Web: www.meallmore.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/meallmore AntonineWest House, 16Magazine Roman Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 2SL End Life www.westendlife.biz | 23

Choosing a Christmas Tree Make sure you ask the

right questions before you buy your tree!

If the tree has had to travel or be stored before you purchase it, it may not last well in a heated house. For instance, at Cardwell Garden Centre the vast majority of our trees come from our grower in Dumfries. We have used the same supplier for several years now, simply because they are the best quality and shape that we can find. They are trimmed as they grow, so the shape is very close to the ideal cone shape.

The grower also trims some of them thin, so if you do not have a lot of space or just prefer a slimmer tree, you can get that as well.

Please do not buy a tree in its netting. There is no way of telling what it will look like when you unwrap it. A good retailer will let you see it unwrapped and then wrap it for you again,

to make transport easier.

When you view it in the garden centre remember that the branches may drop slighty further as the tree settles. Unwrapping the tree a couple of days before you decorate it make it easier.

Ask your retailer what species of tree is best for you. There are 3-4 common varietes that vary in appearance and durability.

Potted trees are also available, but be aware that potted trees may not be the same as a rooted tree in a pot.

Only the rooted tree will last past Christmas and be suitable for planting in a container or the garden. Again, ask the assistant in the shop.

1 The base of the tree should have a clean cut. If the tree has been harvested for a while, the base of the tree will seal up. This needs to be removed, so there is fresh wood exposed on the base.

2 Make sure your tree stand will hold water and, once your tree is in the stand, put some sugar and water in the stand. The tree will absorb the liquid, so check the level frequently and top up if necessary.

3 Do not site it tree near radiators or draughty doors/windows.

Poinsettias are in shops now and add great colour to any room for winter. Make sure the one you buy is not displayed too near to a door or heater as Poinsettias are very sensitive to cold and sudden temperature changes.

Where they are grown is also relevant as long journies in cold unheated lorries can damage the plant, although this is more true of chain stores than independent stores. Examine the plant for damage before your purchase.

The Poinsettia should be wrapped before you leave the garden centre or shop, to protect it from the cold on the way home.

By Kieran Gallagher

24 | West End Life –

I do hope that you all have a great Christmas and a very happy New Year, from myself and everyone @westendlife Christmas 2016 at Cardwell Garden Centre!

WE’VE GOT CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP • Indoor children’s Carnival & Santa’s Grotto • Selection of decorations, lights, trees & more!

• Quality Scottish grown Xmas trees in stock!

• The Elf on the Shelf available to adopt in-store • Award winning craft and hobby centre FREE • Licensed 300 seater restaurant ENTR Y • Festive food menu available • Kitchenware, foodhall, clothes & more!

• Special offers and promotions in-store

For more information on our festive events please visit our website

2 FOR 1 BREAKFAST IS BACK AT CARDWELL THIS JANUARY Cardwell is closed on 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January

Lunderston Bay, Gourock, Inverclyde, PA19 1BB West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 25

01475 521 536 www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk

All Christmas trees are delivered free of charge.

Please call to ask about delivery areas & times.

We’ll pick up your old Christmas tree in January.

Collection in G Postcode only, call to arrange a day

Nordmann Fir

Lodgepole Pine

Fraser Fir

5ft - 7ft £40 7ft - 9ft £55

5ft £35 • 6ft £40 7ft £45 • 8ft £50 Call for larger sizes

5ft £35 • 6ft £40 7ft £45 • 8ft £50 9ft £75 • 10ft £90

Want to send a tree anywhere in the UK or let your friends and relatives buy a tree? we now deliver, for details visit www. realchristmastreesdirect.co.uk To place your order, call us now on 07982184993 or email: info@realchristmastreesglasgow.co.uk 100 Crowhill Rd Bishopbriggs Glasgow G64 1RP www.realchristmastreesglasgow.co.uk Real Christmas Trees Glasgow Official

C C C CC C hildren's

with

on erts c

c

lass i

Christmas Countdown Glasgow Royal Concert Hall 1pm & 3pm Sunday 4th December

Kick-start the festive season with Owen and Olly’s musical advent calendar! With seasonal favourites performed by the RSNO and the Manor School of Ballet.

childrensclassicconcerts.co.uk Children’s Music Foundation in Scotland. Registered Scottish Charity SC022841

26 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

Our Christmas Budget Tips Before You Start

Gift Giving

1. Stay Calm: Don’t get too caught up in the buying frenzy or fall for marketing tactics retailers use to get you to spend more. Avoid advertisements and try not to compare your holiday spending habits with others’. Just stay focused on your own budget.

6. Set Up a Secret Santa: For big groups, such as family or colleagues, a Secret Santa gift exchange can be a great way to make sure everyone gets a gift, without breaking the bank.

2. Start Early: You can save on gift-giving by starting now. This will give you plenty of time to wait for the right deal, make sure items will be shipped and received on time. Getting an early start will cut down on stress, too!

3. Avoid Paying on Credit: It might be a good strategy to charge Christmas gifts to your credit card to earn points, but make sure you don’t spend more than you can pay off right away. Getting hit with credit card interest could make your purchases 15-20% higher.

7. Send an E-card: Paying for Christmas cards, a family photo and the postage can really add up. Skip the snail mail and opt for an electronic greeting.

Lastly, avoid compromising your long term savings and investing strategy as getting back into the habit post Christmas can be difficult and cost you dear.

Smart Shopping 4. Shop With a List: Whether you’re shopping for food or gifts for the family, go with a list in hand to avoid buying unnecessary items and going over budget.

5. Bundle Online Orders: This will save on shipping, and ordering all at once could help you reach the larger spending limits that often come with larger savings (such as £10 off £100, for example).

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 27

Sash & Casement Window Repair

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Be in with a chance to WIN

2 Gift Cards worth £298 for a Nick Nairn Cook School day class!

Nick Nairn Cook School classes offer a great day out. Whatever level of cook you are, you’ll be well looked after either at the Cook School in Aberdeen city centre, or in the beautiful Trossachs countryside beside the Lake of Menteith.

On a day class, Nick’s Chef Tutors demonstrate how to cook 3 dishes – a starter, main and dessert, and you’ll gradually prepare your lunch, served with wine. The chefs are on hand to help, and each cooking session is full of fun, great tips, and good company. Class types range from a new Scottish cookery menu, to Indian, Thai, Italian and French menus, among others.

There are also 2-hour and 3-hour classes, plus classes with Nick himself at the helm. Got a foodie friend? Why not buy them a Gift Card this Christmas, from £59. Available online at www.nicknairn.com or call the Cook School on 01877 389900.

To enter, visit www.westendlife.biz 28 | West – Christmas 2016 and clickEnd onLife competitions.

@westendlife

The Alliance Française de Glasgow is the official French language and cultural centre for Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

FRENCH CLASSES

Adults & Children

From 6th February

Suitable for all levels

0141 331 4080 3 Park Circus, G3 6AX

admin@afglasgow.org.uk

afglasgow.org.uk

Enrolling now! Free assessments

We offer French courses for adults, teenagers and children of all levels throughout the year. Our teachers are all qualified native French speakers.

Our classes are complemented by various cultural events such as film screenings, wine-tastings, talks, exhibitions. Our multimedia library provides a large selection of books, DVDs and magazines suitable for all levels.

A bientôt à l’AF Glasgow!

Tel: 0141 331 4080 | www.afglasgow.org.uk

est. 2009 Derby Street Nursery provides high quality care and education for children aged 6 months to 5 years in the most idyllic setting in the Westend of the City.

Call or email our Manager, Maureen, enqui about a place for your child. to enquire Tel: 0141 357 0231 email: maureen@derbystreetnursery.co.uk

Take the tour of our Nursery at www.derbystreetnursery.co.uk Derby Street G3 7SD

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 29

Nick Nairn’s

Christmas Recipe

Helston Pudding

This makes an ideal lighter alternative to Christmas pud. And the definitive Cook School custard is the essential accompaniment – it’s one of our most popular recipes in classes.

Make it from scratch with real vanilla and you’ll come away converted.

For the Pudding 50g self-raising flour 50g ground rice 50g fresh breadcrumbs 50g raisins or sultanas 50g currants 50g dried apricots, chopped 50g soft brown sugar 75g shredded suet 1 tsp grated nutmeg ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda 3 tsp stem ginger, cut into thin strips 6 tsp golden syrup 30ml Grand Marnier milk, to mix soft butter, to grease the moulds

Serves 4-6

For the Cook School custard

The mixture should begin to thicken within about 2 minutes. Undercook at this point and the custard will be thin. If, however, the milk becomes too hot then the egg will curdle. You’re looking for a temperature of 82C; the easiest way to gauge this is with a Thermapen digital thermometer (see www.nicknairn.com). If you don’t have one, watch for little puffs of steam escaping from the side of the pan. These are a warning that the custard is getting too hot, so take the pan off the heat and continue stirring.

When it’s thick enough to coat the back of the spatula, take off the heat and strain immediately through a fine sieve to remove any small lumps.

150ml full fat milk 150ml double cream 1 vanilla pod, split, seeds scraped out & reserved 3 egg yolks 30g caster sugar

Serve immediately or store in a Thermos flask that’s been rinsed with boiling water, for up to 3 hours. Or to cool, pour into a clean bowl, cover with cling film that’s touching the surface to prevent a skin forming and chill in an ice bath. Keep in the fridge and use within 3 days.

To serve

For the puddings, take 4 individual quarter-pint pudding basins, preferably with lids, and grease them with the soft butter. Place a teaspoon of golden syrup and half a teaspoon of stem ginger into the bottom of each basin.

clotted cream

Method First make the custard. Place the milk, cream, vanilla pod and seeds into a thick-bottomed pan and place over a high heat until boiling. Meanwhile, beat the egg yolks and sugar together in a medium sized bowl using a balloon whisk until thick, fluffy and pale.

Slowly pour half the hot milk and cream onto the egg and sugar mixture, whisking continually. Take the pan off the heat then use a heatproof spatula to scrape all the egg mixture from the bowl into the pan with the remaining milk and cream. Place the pan back on a medium heat and stir with a heatproof spatula until it starts to thicken. Make sure you cover the whole pan by stirring fromEnd sideLife to side rather than round 30 | West – Christmas 2016 and round.

Sieve the flour into a large bowl, then mix in all the rest of the dry ingredients, fruit, breadcrumbs and suet.

Add a little milk, golden syrup and Grand Marnier to the dry mix, to form a soft dropping consistency – but not too wet – then divide between the buttered pudding basins.

Cover securely and cling film the basins in case the lids pop off. Steam for an hour. If you’re making one large one, steam for at least 2 hours.

The puddings can be made in advance and warmed through still in their basins in hot water when needed then unmoulded onto serving plates. Serve with plenty of custard and a spoonful of clotted cream on top. @westendlife

BROOMHILL SHOPPING CENTRE

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All you need closer to home.

Broomhill Shopping Centre Broomhill Drive, 2–26 Norby Road Broomhill, Glasgow G11 7BN www.broomhillshoppingcentre.com

FREE PARKING West End Life Magazine

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www.westendlife.biz | 31

‘hello’ next step

View our latest West End properties online or speak to us today.

Contact us on

Visit our website

0141 357 1888

corumproperty.co.uk

Corum West End 82 Hyndland Road, Glasgow G12 9UT

32 | West End Life – Christmas 2016

@westendlife

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