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love paisley Your Guide to a Great Day Out in Paisley

Summer 2021 | 01

Look Good and Feel Good this Summer Dress to Impress Happy Ever After

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CONTENTS 05 05 Eating Out in Paisley this Summer 0 Grilled To Perfection  Picture Perfect 2 Dress To Impress 4 Paw Friendly Paisley 6 Cool Clothes For Kids 8 Taking Centre Stage 20 More Than Just Fun 22 A Picture Tells A Thousand Words 24 A Journey Of Discovery 25 Happy Ever After 26 Getting Hitched Without A Hitch! 28 Body and Soul

30 On Your Marks, Get Set, Go! 32 Setting Your Sights On Summer 34 Investing in History, Securing the Future 35 A Great Day Out in Paisley 36 All Smiles 38 Bears By Sue Quinn 39 Getting Here

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Paisley ō Eating out in

this summer!

Whether it’s a lunch with friends, date night or celebrating that all important family occasion, Paisley’s growing food and drink scene has something to tempt your tastebuds!

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In recent years, food culture in Paisley has grown and the town centre is now a hotspot for food and drink, with everything from vegan food, artisan coffee, to family-run traditional restaurants and cafes. So, whether you like Thai or Italian, a sizzling steak or a juicy burger, or great value traditional pub grub, there’s something to suit everyone!

CAFES For those in pursuit of hearty food and an informal and inviting ambiance, you cannot go wrong with a trip to local favourites such as Graham's Café and Lee’s Diner within the Paisley Centre or the spacious Taste and C on Moss Street and Caffe Lusso on School Wynd. Similarly, those looking to enjoy a ciabatta and a coffee while watching the hustle and bustle of the High Street, Cardosi’s Espresso Bar and Munchies at Leisureland have you covered. Heading to the Piazza, well-known brand names such as Costa, Aulds and BB Muffins are on hand to serve up the tastes that have made them household names. If you are in the market for something a little more substantial 6

the friendly award-winning staff and expansive menu of Lawn Street’s Taste Buds will banish your hunger pangs. There have been some fantastic newcomers to Paisley over the last year such as Food Forty Six and Mah Cafe, their emphasis on bringing the eclecticism of street food to our town has gone down a storm and is destined to attract many admirers as the summertime descends. While we’re talking of warmer temperatures, Paisley is well-equipped to allow you to enjoy your lunch and simultaneously bask in the good weather, with no shortage of cafes offering extensive outdoor seating options. Beginning in Gauze Street, the acclaimed Bianco Nero will allow you to dine with a friend while taking in the

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medieval beauty of the Paisley Abbey and for those on the high street, Malatso and Cafe Fairfull offer a chance to have your lunch in the heart of our main shopping district. Elsewhere, if you are eager to get some breakfast or lunch before hopping onto the train, The Square Cafe Bistro couldn't be better positioned. Looking to embrace artisan coffee and plentiful food options that cover all dietary requirements? Brew on County Square and Blend on Causeyside Street will provide the mixture of atmosphere and appetising dishes that you need, with vegans well catered for here too. Other local favourites include Cafe Su and Grumpy Monkey Coffee House, where there's an assortment of expertly produced hot drinks and great options for breakfast and lunch. GRAB & GO With our hectic schedules, we don't always have the luxury of taking in our lunch at a leisurely pace. If you’re looking to grab something on the move, we've got a whole host of local favourites that serve up great food that'll keep you going and then some.

From the Paisley Centre’s Bothy Coffee to Nibbles Takeaway, The Pantry, Cloud 9 Deli and The Sandwich Factory through to Lisa's Cafe on Glasgow Road, these lunchtime outlets are perfect for the Paisley workforce, every bit as rich in fantastic food as their cafe counterparts. FISH AND CHIPS Beloved throughout the length and breadth of the country, fish and chips are an institution in Paisley. Our town is privileged to boast several quality establishments that have got this national staple down to a fine art and are as much a part of the fabric of Paisley as its famous buildings. With Allan's Fish and Chips, Andy's Golden Fry and Castelvecchi, Paisley locals have an enviable array of choice and plenty of friendly service to boot. Serving up chips, fresh fish, pizza and plenty of camaraderie all in one go, these chippies have all found the formula for longevity and acquired a loyal clientele that associate their delicious food with comfort and familiarity. :

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RESTAURANTS While you’ve got plenty of options to keep you going during the day, there's even more variety worth venturing out to sample in the evening. In fact, both Paisley’s restaurant scene and array of casual sit-in options are of such a consistently high standard and adventurous in nature that our town has become a hub for foodies from across Renfrewshire and beyond. ITALIAN If you are in the market for the Mediterranean’s most popular cuisine, Paisley has a great selection of Italian eateries that will bring all the flavours of all of the country's regions to you. With no shortage of choice on offer, you can take your pick of the modern interpretations of the family-run Cardosi’s Restaurant and Zambretto Italian or steep yourself in the traditional approach of La Dolce Vita and the stylish Trattoria Genova.

PERI-PERI Since this Portuguese/Mozambican delicacy increased in popularity over recent years Paisley’s food-loving community were eager to see the town's craving for peri-peri fulfilled and now, both Black Rooster and Pepe’s Piri Piri are serving up their own takes on this popular dish to satisfy customers. ASIAN FOOD For those looking to deviate from homegrown dishes in favour of something that has been faithfully recreated from further afield, Paisley has a whole host of acclaimed Asian outlets that'll have something for everyone. For Indian food, we recommend a trip to Indian By Nature or Multan Tandoori with both restaurants dedicated to their craft with food made using only the freshest ingredients. Japan Street Food has also attracted admirers from all over, while Thai Siam is the go-to for all dishes from ‘The Land Of Smiles’.

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BURGERS AND FRIES If you’re looking for something to really get your teeth into, Paisley has plenty of places in which you can find burgers, loaded fries and other amazing side dishes that your heart desires. Buoyed by its trademark liveliness and friendly bar banter, The Keg has become a firm favourite among locals and are always conjuring up inventive specials. While in the case of newcomers Meat In The Middle, their new Paisley branch offers complete customisation of their burgers. A BIG NIGHT OUT For those who are heading out to dinner for a special occasion, catch up with friends and family and need somewhere all your needs can be catered to, Paisley is brimming with restaurants and other eateries that are sure to hit all the right notes. From fine dining and tapas to informal bar bites and sumptuous steaks, we cannot hesitate in recommending The Little Steakhouse, Pendulum Scottish Kitchen & Bar, The Lane, The Juniper Bar and Restaurant, Jam Jar, The Ugly Duck and recent newcomers Barga along with the Watermill Hotel.

PUB GRUB Sometimes, there is just no substitute for the convivial energy that is found in the pub. Paisley’s favourite bars serving food have proven that the food doesn’t have to be secondary to your choice of drink in your glass so for traditional pub grub look no further than The Abbey Bar, Bankhouse, Gabriel's, Kennedy's Bar and The Last Post. And for those whose sweet tooth dictates what part of town they’re headed to, we have two new businesses opening in the town centre who can help. Dessert Rush on Glasgow Road and also a new sit-in ice cream parlour, Dream Desserts, on the corner of Causeyside Street and Orchard Street. Whatever takes your fancy for eating out this summer, Paisley town centre has you covered! 9

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GRILLED TO PERFECTION

If your next favourite foodie treat after eating out is firing up the BBQ, then fear not, we have some top tips for getting the grill out this summer!

s Paisley’s resident expert in dry aged local Scottish beef, James Peacock of the hallowed WM Phelps Butchers on Causeyside Street has outlined his top 5 tips for the perfect summer barbecue.

DON'T USE A GAS GRILL IF POSSIBLE The smoke is an ingredient in itself. Without it, you get the heat, but you’re missing out on all of the nuanced flavour.

USE WOOD FROM FRUIT TREES FOR EXTRA FLAVOUR To change up the usual flavour, try adding fruit tree wood chips to your charcoal. Fruit woods are mild in flavour and high in sap, and generally have fewer impurities 10

in them. You can choose from whatever is easiest to find near you, whether that’d be apple, cherry, grape or peach.

SOAK WOOD CHIPS IN WATER BEFORE COOKING Soak wood chips in water for at least an hour or even better, overnight, before draining them. Then wrap them in an aluminum foil “burrito” and put them in your grill. The water content makes the chips produce more smoke, which subsequently enhances the flavour.

DON'T CHECK THE TEMPERATURE REPEATEDLY The proper technique for cooking barbecue can be summed up in three simple words: low and slow. Be patient. Try not to check the

temperature more than every half an hour at most since it cools things off when you do, There’s really no reason to open the cooker for the first couple of hours unless you think things are going too fast. As the saying goes, if you’re looking, it ain’t cooking! After that, every hour or so, you can mop the meat with your sauce and check the temperature while you’re at it.

LET THE MEAT SIT BEFORE EATING After removing your meat from the grill, let it sit for a few minutes. This seals the juices and keeps the meat from drying out. Do not cut until you are ready to serve and eat. And never poke holes in your meat while it’s cooking. Do not use forks, instead, to turn meat, always barbecue using tongs or spatulas.

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PI C TU RE

PERFECT

Shining a spotlight on Paisley Picture Framers’ decades of expertise, their vast art gallery and the importance of conservation framing.

ince setting up shop in the late eighties, Paisley Picture Framers and Gallery has become so revered that clients come from up and down the country to enlist their expertise. A multi-faceted business that celebrates artistic work whilst excelling in the field of display, Cathy Scollon and owner Len Dyer’s quest to make art “affordable and accessible” is driven by a desire to provide a platform for great work. “We’re always looking for new, up-and-coming artists,” said Cathy. “Tastes change all the time and there’s so much fabulous work, it can be hard to break through, different styles appeal to certain areas or collectors. “The market changes every year, so you need to keep it current. It’s like the decor in your house, you’re not always going to keep it the same. Personal taste plays a massive role, but across a 3000 square foot space, there’s something for everyone.” Stepping into the gallery on Causeyside Street, you are instantly met with a real treasure trove of artworks. With thousands of pieces in stock - from limited editions to originals - the team showcase works from

Govan Shipyards by John McNaught

High Noon by Stuart McPherson

Memories by Vichit Nongnual

Scottish artists such as Irvine Russell, John McNaught, Stuart MacPherson and William Dobbie, alongside well-known artists such as Kerry Darlington, Roz Bell and Ron Lawson. “We’ve been a part of a lot of success stories,” Cathy reminisced. “In terms of local artists, we’ve showcased pieces from people such as Robert Kelsey whose work has gone on to sell for millions.” Away from their relentless pursuit of the finest new work of any medium, framing accounts for a massive part of their renown among collectors of both art and memorabilia. And for Cathy and Len, no job is too big or unorthodox. “We employ a conservation, acid-free back and a mount on our work so that no moisture or acid can get through from anything that you place it near, and even stops it seeping in from the glass,” explained Cathy. “It’s such a lengthy process to remove these marks if they set in, so that’s why we focus on preservation. “Even when we’re framing football tops, we put an acid-free board inside the shirt and build a box frame that lifts it away from the shirt. We’ve done everything from wedding dresses to kilts, a Gurkha knife and I’ve even got someone waiting to bring in a claymore sword. But as I always say, we’re happy to take all of the weird and wonderful stuff.” For more details on the gallery or their conservation framing services, please visit paisleypicturegallery.co.uk 11

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DRESS TO IMPRESS From sustainability to special purchases, Paisley’s fashion district will have you stepping out in style!

When shopping for clothes in the town centre, there’s no need to compromise on quality, comfort, or style. Paisley town centre offers an eclectic mix of homegrown boutiques as well as high street staples catering to all tastes and styles so whether you are fashion, eco or cash conscious, shopping for the everyday or a special occasion, there really is something for everyone!

FINISHING TOUCHES Housing an exclusive collection of high-quality brands such as Fantasie, Triumph, Charnos, Freya, Elomi, Miraclesuit, Platex and Wonderbra to mention just a few, Finishing Touches is Paisley’s go to one-stop shop for lingerie, hosiery and nightwear. With owner Liz Stewart at the helm since 1985, her impeccable customer care and expertise has turned her store into a cherished favourite within the town. “A visit to Finishing Touches is a personal shopping experience, where each customer can browse the extensive range of merchandise and be given expert advice regarding their requirements,” Liz told Love Paisley. “Our personal fitting service is an important aspect of Finishing Touches,” added Liz. “At all times, our priority is making the customer feel comfortable and to supply them with the correct garments that fulfill their individual requests. No one is under any pressure to make a purchase, our ambiance is always friendly and relaxed.” Visit Liz at her Johnston Street shop or check out www.facebook.com/finishingtouchespaisley.co.uk 12

MILANO BOUTIQUE After years in the town as Shoe52, this Mill Street favourite has been relaunched as Milano Boutique and specialises in a fantastic range of Italian clothing, quality branded footwear and a vast collection of bags and unique accessories. “Almost all of our clothing is made in Italy to the highest standard and is comfortable, stylish and designed to fit across multiple sizes,” owners Michelle and Diane informed us. “Milano was founded by two like-minded fashion devotees whose passion is to offer a unique, contemporary and timeless clothing and footwear range. We offer our customers honest advice on purchases, we know them well, remembering and appreciating repeat customers over many years. “The feedback from our clients has been amazing and we try to keep things fresh by introducing new and exciting styles each week to keep things interesting. We also merchandise in colour palettes to make it easy for customers to shop and choose outfits to mix and match!” Take a virtual tour of Milano Boutique now via www. facebook.com/milanoboutiquepaisley

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CALEB OUTLET Caleb Outlet is a new addition to Paisley’s clothing circuit with a bright future ahead. Launched in November 2020, this store is comprised of quality clothing and footwear for all ages. Owner Kristina said: “We stock a wide range including accessories for women, men and children and we’re constantly updating our stock so you will always see something new when you pop in.” In recent weeks, the team have incorporated a whole host of Nike clothing and shoes into their collection and as time goes on, we expect this store will become a must visit destination for the fashion-conscious among Paisley’s local community. To see the full range on offer, visit the store at 14 New Street. REMODE Based on Paisley’s High Street, ReMode is a creative community hub for sustainable fashion. “Our shop on the High Street sells hand-picked second-hand clothing and a range of remoded garments and accessories that have been upcycled by our creative volunteers and staff,” project manager Jane Dixon remarked. “Visitors can join our membership token scheme that allows you to donate unwanted garments in exchange for tokens to be spent in-store, or they can use our workshop facilities to craft their own make-and-mend projects. “Our ReMode Collection of unique and beautiful upcycled clothing helps people discover what can be created from discarded fabric and our customers love rummaging through our second-hand clothes to find a bargain.” Visit remodeyouth.org/ for further details on how to get involved. ALISTAIR STEEL SHOES A fixture on the town’s Gauze Street for more than 20 years, Alastair Steel Shoes offers a wide range of brands for every season, with a focus on quality at an affordable price. As their regular customers will attest, Van Dal, Equity, Suave, Ecco and Hotter Comfort Concept are all firm favourites with a range of styles no matter the time of year. Well known for their friendly service, the team will do their best to find the right shoe to meet your needs. See more at No. 9 Gauze Street. NATIONWIDE FAVOURITES Along with our varied collection of independent retailers, Paisley is proud to be home to a whole host of famous brands too. Encompassing fashion, sports and shoe retailers, you can also shop at JD Sports, New Look, M and Co, Allders department store, Sports Direct, Bon Marche, Peacocks and Shoezone, all within a few minutes’ walk of each other. We’ll have more on these retailers in Issue 2 13

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Paw Friendly Paisley Looking to give your dog that special day out then look no further than Paisley town centre!

t’s often said that dog is man’s best friend and for those with a dog in the household they’re certainly treated just like a member of the family. But did you know there’s no need to leave your best friend at home to chew on your best slippers while you head into town? A growing number of Paisley town centre businesses are part of an initiative which encourages you to bring your dog with you whilst you shop and socialise in Paw Friendly Paisley! So, if you are out and about and want to stop off for a daytime latte, lunch or a snack, there are plenty of cafes that will welcome your pooches with open arms. If you like to watch the comings and goings of the town with a coffee in one hand and your dog sitting contentedly by your side, Blend on Causeyside Street, the High Street’s Cafe Fairfull and Brew on County Square are great options for you. They will even leave it up to you as to whether you would like to sit inside or if we are lucky enough to enjoy some nicer weather, they will let you and your canine companion enjoy an al fresco experience. Likewise, Malatso Cafe, which is situated further up the high street and in the shadow of the Paisley Museum development.

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On Old Sneddon Street Comicrazy Cafe, which is just as renowned as a café as it is for its for its table-top gaming and Manga, also has a place for your furry friend. Around the corner on Lawn Street the friendly team at Taste Buds Paisley would love to welcome you and your dog - just don’t be offended if your four-legged friend gets more attention than you! As we know, there are times where you are in the mood for something a little stronger than a flat white and in this instance, you will be glad to know that there are a considerable number of Paisley pubs that will also happily accommodate you and your dog. From the convivial surroundings of The Patter Bar to the historic Bull Inn, the lively social hub of The Cave and the jukebox fuelled The Wee Howff, plus the outdoor seating area of The Old Swan, there are plenty of public houses where your dogs will be treated as though they were loyal clientele. There are also a growing number of retail outlets in the town centre that will be more than happy for you to bring your dog along for a browse. From independent stores to widely recognisable chains you will be able to do all your

shopping with your dog in tow. Everything from fashion to finding your inner artist, your dog will be warmly greeted in Paisley town centre businesses such as Accord Hospice, Belvoir Letting, Finishing Touches, Harvies Tobacconist, The Haberdashery, The Print Centre, Made in Paisley, McLauchlan & Co Jewellers, With Love Flowers, White Cart Co. and WH Smith. And if that wasn’t enough dog friendly businesses, our town’s love of dogs is so deep-rooted that there are also hairdressers, beauty salons and more that can be visited without the need to contact doggy day care. From George Street to County Place, your dog will be the talk of the technicians at Elixir Lounge, Kooks Hairdressing, Kouture Hair & Beauty, Sophie Graham Hair, Tip to Toe Beauty, Uptown Barbers, VIP Beauty Lounge and for those in the market for a massage or holistic therapies, Orchard Clinic Massage and Podiatry. There has never been a better time to be a dog owner in Paisley as there are so many local businesses that will make every member of your family - two legs or four - feel very, very welcome! 15

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COOL CLOTHES FOR

kids

Kids know what they like and waste no time in telling you, especially when it comes to clothes! No matter your budget, our childrenswear specialists have all you need for your child’s wardrobe, from practical to occasion wear, from newborn to trendy teen!

ith every passing season, both the style and specific purpose of any item of kids’ clothing can evolve. Then there’s the unpredictability of growth spurts or the possibility that some playtime related accident may befall their favourite outfit. Fear not, this assorted quartet of town centre childrenswear stores are on hand with everything you need for the little ones and the suddenly not-so-little ones alike.

COCO CHILDRENSWEAR Excelling in kids’ couture for boys, girls and babies, Coco Childrenswear is a small business with a big passion for fashion. After opening in April 2018 with only a handful of brands on their books, this Lawn Street store has gone from strength to strength and is always looking to expand. “Beginning from newborns up to 16 years old, we stock Moschino, Kenzo, Karl Lagerfeld, Little Marc Jacobs, Bimbalò, Laranjinha and Tartine et Chocolat,” owner Carla told us. “With the growth of online shopping during the pandemic, we have advanced our website and click and collect is proving very popular with the local customers. “We have built a loyal following over the years and we always love to see our customers wearing the latest looks each season. “From cute baby outfits to attire for trendy teens, we have a wide variety for growing children and we’re always happy to welcome new and old faces into our store.” www.cocochildrenswear.co.uk 16

BARU Baru now have in-store appointments available and can’t wait to reacquaint themselves with their faithful clientele. Primarily known as a school uniform and embroidery specialist who have been operating in Paisley since 1995, the team in Moss Street have a wide range of uniform for schools throughout Renfrewshire, Glasgow and beyond. Always adapting, they now offer a new range of hoodies for every school and can also help with uniforms for those out of school clubs such as Brownies and Beavers too. With another year of classes on the horizon, the team say time is of the essence if you want to beat the back to school summer rush. “We are able to provide bespoke uniforms and personal touches to uniforms such as braiding on blazers,” said Romaan. “Our unique and exclusive tartan skirts and pinafores are available and our full range for the 2021 season is available now so best to get organised early to avoid disappointment.” To book an appointment, please visit www.kitmykid.co.uk.

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MENACE CHILDRENSWEAR A fixture of Renfrewshire’s fashion landscape since 2004, Menace has been helping babies, boys and girls to look their sharpest for almost two decades. Focused on acquiring the latest styles in continental childrenswear, this kids’ boutique maintains a 50/50 split between boys and girls clothing to ensure that every child in your household is catered for. A stockist of baby clothes from the age of six months right up to trendy must-haves for teens up to age 16, this Causeyside St. store has you covered whatever your needs. With kids’ collections and accessories from Hugo Boss, Absorb Clothing, Emile et Rose, Patachou, Mayoral, Levi’s, Sarah Louise and Tutto Piccolo as well as the latest from Scottish brands such as Glasgow’s A Dee and Mitch & Son, Menace will always keep you abreast of the new trends. For trend-setting kids, the DKNY range for boys up to age 10 is a must-see as well as Menace’s exciting new Billieblush collection for girls who really like to sparkle! To fully appreciate the wide variety on offer, a visit to the store at 56 Causeyside Street is a must!

MOONGEMZ BABY & GIFTS Moongemz Baby & Gifts is a well-established family-run business, having resided in The Paisley Centre for four years before moving to a new location on the high street. Owner Elaine and her team ply their trade specialising in the newborn range up to age 2 and, as they proudly told us, the layout of the new shop floor allows more space for their most important customers in their buggies! “Our unique hand-made range of pram sets can be individualised to our customer’s exact choice of fabric and personalisation,” said Elaine. “Names can be embroidered on to just about anything including hats, bags, comforters and our speciality pram hearts. One of our best-selling items is our hand-frilled shawl, it’s such a generous size that it can be used as either a christening shawl or as a lovely pram blanket.” “Our aim in general is to provide a great and affordable choice of clothes, gifts, accessories and hand knitting” Elaine added. “New for this season is a beautiful quality range of rompers and dresses from Portugal that are available at amazing prices.” 17

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Centre Stage TAKING

After decades of bringing the arts to Paisley’s youth, PACE’s new Exchange venue looks set to take centre stage in the town as a pioneering hub for children and young people's theatre.

ince first opening their doors in 1988, PACE has given budding actors an invaluable education in the performing arts. Famous faces that have benefited from the non-profit organisation’s guidance include James McAvoy, Richard Madden, James McArdle and Paolo Nutini to name just a few. All the while, the yearly schedule of shows has kept generations of Paisley locals entertained, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas in Paisley without a trip to the PACE pantomime. Now, the team at PACE are hoping to expand on that storied history with Exchange Young People’s Theatre, a brand-new venue that will take pride of place on Old Sneddon Street. A familiar landmark in the town, the site appears to be at 18

the same location as Paisley’s first purpose-built theatre, The Abercorn, which was built in 1882 but destroyed by fire seven years later. The current building was constructed in 1932 and has been well known over the years as a dance hall, templar hall, telephone exchange, and night club but has lain empty since 2004. PACE Chief Executive, Grant Mason, told us that plans to breathe new life into this building would make them pioneers on a national level. “What we’re trying to do is open Scotland’s first theatre that’s specifically for children, young people and families, made up of a 300-seater theatre, a studio and a cafe/bar hub. Exchange will be dedicated to performances for those groups and we hope it’ll transform

outcomes for young people, as well as improving Paisley’s position as a visitor destination”, he revealed. “We’re expecting to bring in 80,000 visitors to the community every year and we hope this will stimulate both the daytime and night-time economy. A show like the panto will be much bigger here, so we hope it’ll help not only PACE, but lots of other organisations too.” “We’ve had a lot of really great support from Renfrewshire Council which has enabled us to get to this point,” added Grant. “Right now, we’re in the middle of fundraising for phase 2. At the end of that, we’re hoping to be able to actually move into the building, with work focusing on the studio and cafe area. Then, phase 3 would account for the main auditorium and we want

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to have a glass wall so that people can see the potential of this space as we go. “We’ve had lots of support from former members as well as local businesses. We’ve still got a long way to go, but it’s been fantastic so far.” Fundraising initiatives include the ‘Million Pound Wall’ campaign which allows people to sponsor a brick on the supporter’s wall which will form a prominent part of the building once complete. There are other initiatives too, ranging in price from £50 to £50,000, including Seat Sponsor, Founding Supporters and Founding Sponsorship. Although the financial upside that this could bring to Paisley is clear to see, the ethos that drives PACE and the work on Exchange forward hinges on the long-term benefits that creativity has for kids and teenagers. PACE Theatre Company runs PACE Youth Theatre, the largest youth theatre of its kind in the UK, working with around 1,000 young people ages 3-21 every week. “There’s more people taking part in participatory youth theatre activities in Paisley than in any other Scottish local authority per capita”, said Grant. “So, while

Paisley’s young people are already creatively engaged, we’d really like Renfrewshire to become a place that’s known for theatre that’s for and by young people. “The benefits of taking your child to the theatre or getting them involved in the creative arts in general are massive. There are loads of studies which suggest that taking part in creativity can improve your chances of employment, lead to better incomes and make you more likely to get a university degree. One in three children have never been to the theatre and it’s often said

that if the habit doesn’t form early on, then you never go as an adult. “That’s why we’re trying to get more young people into theatres and working in them, too. This building is being co-designed by young people and we hope to have many of them in the staff, whether that’s in the cafe, box office or onstage. We’ve looked at a lot of young people’s theatres across the UK including Darlington’s Hullabaloo and the Polka Theatre in London - to help to build the model of what this building will be.” He added: “With Exchange, we can become an organisation that’ll be about young people as audiences just as much as it’s about young people performing. To have a place that they feel is theirs, as a way to see theatre or take part in activities, is the culmination of where we want to take our organisation. “I hope people continue to get behind it because I think it’ll be a transformative thing for Paisley. It’s a difficult time to be fundraising, but any contribution will be hugely important in terms of making this project happen.” To donate or find out more, please visit www.pacetheatre.com 19

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JUST FUN! MORE THAN

There are few things in life more rewarding than seeing a child engrossed in a new hobby. Filled with enthusiasm and energy, getting kids involved in a recreational activity has endless benefits ranging from the development of social skills and independence to the possibility that they’ll discover a lifelong passion. Covering a range of artistic disciplines, Paisley town centre has an assortment of inspiring and fully qualified instructors that are ready to take a new generation under their wing.

DIANE MITCHELL MUSIC SCHOOL At the Diane Mitchell Music School. based at Brick Lane Studios, Diane and her team’s primary motivation is to unleash each child’s musical potential. “Our children’s classes include Musical Tots Age (0-3 years), Piano Tots Age (3-4 years) Musical Maestros (Age 3-5 years), Musicianship (Age 5-9 years) and Grade 1-5 Theory classes for all ages,” said Diane. “We also have a go kids ukulele group, a popular musical theatre group and classes for children with additional support needs. We use the Kodaly approach to music in many of our classes so that children subconsciously learn the basic musical elements: solfa, rhythm, hand signs, memory development, singing, and more in a fun, structured way.” The school also offers one to one lessons in a wide range of instruments including piano, singing, keyboard, violin, cello, double bass, saxophone, guitar, ukulele, drums, flute and more. www.dianemitchellmusicschool.co.uk 20

JENNIFER SCOTT DANCE STUDIO Jennifer is a professional dancer, choreographer and teacher who set up her dance studio on New Street, teaching children of all ages, while continuing to work in the professional industry, she is also a lecturer in dance colleges. “We teach children from 2 and a half years to adults in various styles including - contemporary, jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, hip hop and commercial offering both competitive and non-competitive classes,” said Jennifer. “There are many performance opportunities on offer including annual shows, charity events, festivals and Go Dance at Theatre Royal. “It’s beneficial to young people because not only are they learning skills and dance technique, but also how to develop their own style and creativity, make friends and benefit from improved mental wellbeing, becoming self-motivated with improved social skills but most of all, they have fun!” www.jenniferscottdance.com

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ELMA WHYTE PERFORMING ARTS Based on Incle Street, Elma Whyte Performing Arts was originally opened by its namesake when she was just 18, now the Global President of the British Association of Teachers of Dance, Elma’s daughter Adelle Maasz now oversees this family business. “We have more than 50 years of class leading experience, training generations in performance, dance technique and discipline,” said Adelle. “Our performers are taught with the whole of life in mind. We work on attitude and approach to life and the discipline of dance as a means for self-improvement and we are proud to have played a role in the development of many young people in Paisley. We offer classes from age 2 ½ in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, Highland & Commercial, not forgetting our Zoom ‘Gin & Tone-ic’ class which is a big hit with our dance mums too!” www.elmawhyteperformingarts.co.uk

LET’S DANCE With more than 30 years’ experience, Let’s Dance is Paisley's only dancewear specialist. Originally the store was opened by Irene Drummond in 1987, who found it difficult to buy quality dancewear for her three dancing daughters. Now Irene’s youngest daughter Ann owns the business at 60 Causeyside Street, offering a vast range of dancewear and gymnastic wear.

Along with assistant Morgan, Ann has come to the rescue of many dance mums over the years. “We cater for all types of dancewear and pride ourselves on sourcing everything a dancer needs from our tiny tots to our professional dancers. We also cater for our many budding gymnasts,” said Ann. “We love that many of our customers come to us as children and we are now looking after the next generation. Although it makes us feel old, we will always try our best to get what you are looking for.” With everything from leotards to skirts, jazz pants to ballet cardigans, and all kinds of accessories, not to mention footwear for tap, ballet, cheer, jazz and highland dance, Let’s Dance is your one stop shop for all your dancewear needs. www.letsdancescotland.co.uk

MADE IN PAISLEY Headed up by the dynamic duo of Caroline Gormley and Sandy Guy, this art studio and gallery on the High Street has been the catalyst for countless kids to get in front of the easel, while also giving many of Paisley’s adults an avenue to focus on the creative side of life. For Caroline and her team, it’s a labour of love. “At MADE IN PAISLEY, we teach adults and children drawing and painting, but we also offer exhibition opportunities, showcasing our students’ work at least twice a year, said Caroline. “So, everyone gets to live the whole artist experience. “MADE IN PAISLEY isn’t just about learning a skill, it’s also about the social interaction amongst those who attend and improving confidence and self-esteem. We have such a great time and the children who come along have all made friends. We hope that we can help create great memories for them to look back on and that they'll be inspired to continue with their art throughout their lives.” www.facebook.com/MadeInPaisley We’ll be focusing on classes and workshops available for adults in our next issue of the Love Paisley magazine. 21

LOVE PAISLEY

A picture tells a thousand words…

Looking to get out for some fresh air and enjoy the summer sunshine? A walk around the town centre is a great way to spend the afternoon, exploring Paisley’s rich heritage and bright future through beautiful street art.

BUDDIE BY CAROLINE GORMLEY, STORIE STREET Etched on the gable wall next to Allan’s Fish and Chip Shop, Buddie depicts competition winner and local youngster, Eva Rose Ross, as she encourages Paisley locals to “spread your wings.” The idea for this image was to show that children are the future of the town. The reflection of the buildings are a representation of Paisley’s heritage and the importance of how it’s down to the younger generations to uphold the future of that heritage. Brought to life in collaboration with fellow artist Alexander Guy, Caroline Gormley set out to create a work that would encourage young people to be curious and to be inspired by the rich heritage of the town.

KINGFISHER BY MARK WORST, JOHNSTON STREET The mural trail set out to capture the story of Paisley past, present and future and the first mural in the series to be created is certainly eye-catching. This work highlights one of the town’s relatively unknown sons, Alexander Wilson, as well as one of the town’s most iconic buildings and local wildlife. The kingfisher represents the life and work of Alexander Wilson, who is credited with establishing ornithology as a science. Originally a weaver poet, Alexander Wilson moved to America where he studied wildlife and travelled widely, documenting and drawing hundreds of illustrations of birds on his way. Behind the Kingfisher, the iconic Thomas Coats Memorial Church looms majestically in the background. 22

AND BREATHE BY DUNCAN WILSON, LAWN STREET The next mural to be completed saw a message from one of the town’s community groups taking centre stage. Designed by the Made in The Mill collective in tandem with local artist Duncan Wilson, this piece is intended to raise awareness around mental health issues and serves as a timely reminder to take a moment during a hectic day. Supported by the NHS, the artists at MITM use creativity as a conduit for their recovery. While for Duncan, he hopes that the mural gave a voice to all the participants at Made in the Mill who took part in creating the design and that it ultimately conveyed the message they wanted to share with Paisley.

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WISH YOU WERE HERE BY CAROLINE GORMLEY & SANDY GUY, PAISLEY GILMOUR STREET Beside Kevin’s tourist map with a twist at the town’s main train station, sits Caroline and Sandy’s postcard from Paisley – one of the first sights to greet both Paisley’s locals and visitors upon disembarking from the train. Wish You Were Here serves as a whistle stop tour through famed people, places and even products that relate to our town. This multi-layered piece from the team at MADE IN PAISLEY features everything from a mill girl and burning witch to a Hillman imp, The Russell Institute and Paisley born actor Fulton Mackay. Styled in the vein of postcards from yesteryear, it’s the perfect welcome to the town. REBORN BY KEVIN CANTWELL, LADY LANE Local artist Kevin Cantwell completed the fourth mural in the series at Lady Lane which was depicted on a wall owned by Co-op Funeral Care. This stunning work incorporates a tree with roots, the Paisley pattern and butterflies – all signifying birth and roots, as well as a small marker to the slug in the bottle. The end product is a rich tapestry that symbolises rebirth and is one of Kevin’s two contributions to the mural trail, the other being a pictorial “tourist map” of Paisley at Paisley Gilmour Street. For Kevin, the murals help add to the vibrancy of the town and help art to bring happiness to people.

BROWNS LANE BY DANNY MCDERMOTT AND MARK WORST Partly cobbled and nestled between Shuttle Street and Causeyside Street, Browns Lane is undoubtedly one of Paisley’s hidden gems, thanks to the vision of a group of local business owners who set out to regenerate the area. With additional funding from Paisley First, new canopy lighting was installed and artists Mark Worst and Danny McDermott were brought in. The result is akin to a visually striking hall of fame for Paisley Buddies – this rich collage of street art a fitting tribute to some of Paisley’s finest including Gerry Rafferty and Joe Egan, the Scottish Cup-winning St Mirren team of ’87, singer Paolo Nutini and local historian Ellen Farmer.

ADDITIONAL MURALS The Paisley First Walls series has inspired a number of other murals to pop up in and around the town with further artwork on Lady Lane, at Japan Street Food on Renfrew Rd and Elma Whyte Performing Arts on Incle Street. Everyone has a favourite, take time out to find yours!

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A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

Once you’ve ticked Paisley’s Mural Trail off your list this summer, there’s still plenty more to discover in Scotland’s largest town. Did you know that Paisley has more listed buildings than anywhere else in Scotland outside of Edinburgh? You can see the town’s architectural treasures and learn about its rich history with each building barely more than 10 minutes walking distance apart.

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PAISLEY ABBEY, ABBEY CLOSE First opened in 1163, the original building was destroyed by fire in 1307 and restored during the 14th Century. The sixth High Steward, Walter, married Marjory Bruce, the daughter of Robert the Bruce in 1315. But the following year, Marjory died at the Abbey following a riding accident nearby, her unborn child survived and became King Robert II of Scotland, the first of the Stewart monarchs. Admire the stonework of the rare 10th Century Barochan Celtic Cross or spot the gargoyle modelled during a refurb to look like one of the monsters from the film Alien. ST MIRIN’S CATHEDRAL, INCLE STREET Designed by Thomas Baird in the 1930’s, the Cathedral Church of Paisley is dedicated to Saint Mirin, the patron saint of Paisley, and opened its doors in 1932. This fascinating building is neo-Romanesque in style and was raised to cathedral status in 1948, with the bronze statue of St. Mirin situated opposite. With the chancel made principally of Italian marble and colourful tripartite stained-glass windows, one of the most famous architectural features is the pulpit, designed by globally renowned architectural firm Gillespie, Kidd & Coia. SMA’ SHOT COTTAGES, SMA’ SHOT LANE The Sma’ Shot Cottages provide an insight into two distinct periods of Paisley’s rich weaving history. Visitors immediately step back into the 18th century into a typical weaver’s cottage which was originally built in the 1750s. During summer, fantastic local guides will provide an insight into how a typical weaving family lived and worked during this important period of Paisley’s history.

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RUSSELL INSTITUTE, CAUSEYSIDE STREET/NEW STREET Designed by Paisley’s own James Steel Maitland in the mid-1920’s, this category A-listed Art-Deco treasure stands tall on the corner of Causeyside Street and New Street and is another iconic landmark in the town, with visitors greeted by distinctive stone and bronze sculptures at the entrance. The building was commissioned by Miss Agnes Russell to provide child welfare as a memorial to her two late brothers and now acts as a skills development hub. PAISLEY MUSEUM AND COATS OBSERVATORY, OAKSHAW STREET WEST Operational since 1883, Coats Observatory is Scotland's oldest public observatory, offering visitors the opportunity to view the night sky through the powerful telescopes housed within the building. Part of the museum complex, it is also closed for major refurbishment as part of a four-year £42m transformation. Located in Oakshaw Street West, it is still a must-see sight in the town.

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Happy Ever After

One of the most iconic buildings in the Paisley skyline is embarking on a bright new future after being transformed into the town’s landmark events and wedding venue.

he name Coats is synonymous around the globe with Paisley’s rich textile and thread-making history. Built in his memory by the family of Thomas Coats and completed in 1894, the majestic Victorian neogothic Thomas Coats Memorial Church was equally revered for its stunning architecture and intricate detailing, often referred to as the Baptist Cathedral of Europe. No longer used as a church, it’s future in the town has been secured thanks to the tireless efforts of the Coats Memorial Preservation Trust who have spared no expense in transforming the building into a truly unique destination for weddings, Coats Venue. Here you can host your entire dream big day in a traditional church setting, with a stunning scene for the exchanging of vows and a pictureperfect background for photographs in the mature grounds with its iconic steeple and impressive steps.

Capable of hosting everything from a grandiose wedding to a lowkey ceremony that’d be befitting of the current COVID climate, this historic venue is nothing if not versatile with

a choice between the refurbished ballroom and the small hall downstairs for receptions of all tastes and sizes. “The trust believes that the strength of the building really lends itself to weddings,” said Kirsteen Connell, Events Manager for Coats Venue. “The uniqueness of the venue is that you can host your entire day in the one venue and still have a cathedral or church style ceremony if you wish. “The Ballroom has been carefully designed by TV designer John Amabile to encompass and embrace all of the original features that Coats is known for such as period wooden panels, damask wallpaper complimenting the church’s original stencil work to the inclusion of a Stannah lift between floors for full accessibility. “There’s also our beautifully restored bridal vestry being a perfect place for the bridal parties or bridal hair and makeup. “Every single detail of the refurbishment has taken into consideration the uniqueness of Coats and is decorated in an elegant fashion, whilst allowing the couples-to-be to project their own style through their wedding table décor using the ballroom as a blank canvas.”

While the breath-taking nave offers seating for 800 guests, the reception facilities can provide for 180 seated guests in a round table set up in the ballroom and up to 250 guests for the evening celebrations. Much smaller weddings are equally catered for. Also included in the hire is use of Coats’ 5ft round tables, limewash Chiavari chairs and additional seating for evening guests as well as a bar area. As an added extra, the venue works with a whole host of professional suppliers who are also local businesses in the town and have previously worked in or know the venue well to ensure your nuptials go off without a hitch. From caterers, pipers and designers through to other town centre businesses such as florists, jewellers, hair and beauty businesses and wedding attire specialists including kiltmakers, Coats has covered all the bases and is primed to become one of the most unique and eclectic wedding venues in the country. “Many of the brides that have been in touch have said they’ve always imagined having their wedding at Coats, “added Kirsteen. “We can’t wait to help our couples make sure their first day as a married couple is a day to remember forever.” For more information on having your dream wedding at Coats Venue, please visit www.coatspaisley.com

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Getting hitched without a hitch!

When it comes to planning your big day, finding the perfect venue is the first task on a very long list of things to organise. Thankfully, we have a wide range of Paisley specialists at your service who can take care of every detail, and help you turn your dreams into a reality as you prepare to say I Do.

JEWELFARE Based on the High Street, Jewelfare offers a wide range of services for couples who are tying the knot and they really have thought of everything. “Not only can our fully trained staff advise with the choosing of your wedding rings, we also have an in-house jeweller who can make your bespoke wedding ring ideas a reality,” said Jewelfare’s Debbie. “We can also make bespoke shaped wedding bands to fit most engagement rings. So, why not take a look at our full jewellery range for wedding party gift ideas. From silver pendants, earrings, pocket watches & quality, pre-owned branded watches, we have a little something for everyone. We also offer a clean & polish/rhodium plating service for brides to have their engagement rings looking good as new for the big day!” Visit facebook.com/jewelfarepaisley for more information. HOUSTON KILTMAKERS Armed with more than four generations of expertise, Houston Kiltmakers is an esteemed name here in Paisley and around the world too, quite literally weaving their way into the fabric of families’ traditions. “We’ve been in Paisley for 110 years at the same location,” said director Euan Macdonald “We’ll always be here and as a result, you get generation upon generation coming into the store. It's family-orientated in every way and has become an institution. Fittingly, we’re seeing a lot of families looking to custom-weave a bolt of cloth that can go down through the generations. A 26

high percentage of what we do comes from the wedding market and It’s really nice to meet these people and learn all about their big day.” Head to www.kiltmakers.com/ for details of all services.

JOHN MCKAY JEWELLERS Drawing from 75 years of experience, John McKay Jewellers are widely decorated in the wedding field and have been honoured by prestigious organisations including the VOWS and the Scottish Wedding Awards. But the team here haven’t rested on their laurels and continue to innovate. “We offer an exclusive bespoke design service, taking their concept to creation through the latest computerised technology” said owner Lesley Elder. “We have more than 800 wedding ring samples and at the moment, diamond sets and patterned bands are proving popular with ladies and gents respectively. We’ve even designed our own Swarovski Bridal Jewellery range that’s available at affordable prices, allowing the bride, her bridesmaids and flower girls to sparkle on the big day.” Visit www.johnmckayjewellers.com for full details.

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WITH LOVE FLOWERS Ten-year veterans of their trade, With Love Flowers on the town’s Causeyside Street is a one-stop shop for weddings. Capable of delivering everything from simple bouquets through to full event styling, installations and everything in-between, the team know how much of a difference they can make and are determined to make your big day one to remember. “Working on a wedding is an exceptionally personal process”, With Love Flowers’ Laura informed us. “Starting with an initial consultation, in person, by phone or on a video call, we discuss the day before coming up with the design proposal. There is no better feeling than finding the perfect balance of colour and texture when styling someone's wedding. Luckily, With Love has such a varied customer base that no two weddings are the same, making our job that much more exciting!” Visit withloveflowerspaisley.co.uk for more information. MCLAUCHLAN & CO JEWELLERS Enshrined in Paisley since 1909, McLauchlan & Co Jewellers pride themselves on amiable customer service and boast more than 100 years of experience in helping their customers find the perfect symbol of love. Overseen by owner Craig since 1991, this family-run operation carries a lovely selection of wedding rings that begin from just £35 for a men’s titanium band. Craig said: “We are expertly positioned to help you match your wedding and engagement rings with gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum or even diamonds. We offer a bespoke wedding ring service for a unique design or you can even bring in your sentimental jewellery to make it even more special.” This May, McLauchlan & Co Jewellers is offering a special 10% discount on all wedding rings, with a 15% discount if you buy two. Check out some of their selection at www.mclauchlanandco.co.uk. WARREN JAMES Warren James Jewellers can take care of all your jewellery needs when planning your nuptials, offering a brilliant range of quality jewellery at competitive prices. A member of the Warren James team said: ”We have everything you need from engagement rings, to matching his and her bands, to bridal sets, catering for every budget. “We offer a stunning selection of diamond rings with a range of carats and guaranteed weights. We are known for our amazing value, we help you get more for your money with a wide range of quality pieces at every price point. And if you’re not sure what you are looking for, our friendly team can help make sure you get the perfect rings or bridal sets for your big day and beyond. “Just pop in and see us in store in the Piazza Shopping Centre.” 27

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BODY & SOUL

No matter what ails you, Paisley’s health and wellness practitioners will leave you feeling refreshed and re-energised.

n our exceedingly hectic society, we can often find ourselves placing our health on the backburner. Consequently, those niggling issues that used to be manageable can become a lot harder to bear. Should you find yourself in that situation, you can rest assured that Paisley’s health and wellness clinics will restore you to tip-top condition.

PAISLEY OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC Paisley Osteopathic Clinic is situated on the town’s Moss Street and offers a range of osteopathic and massage services with clients ranging from just three weeks to 99 years old. “People think of osteopaths as back pain specialists,” said owner Asif Allauddin. “But actually, many patients are surprised to learn that we can treat a wide range of ailments including neck and shoulder pain, digestive problems, arthritis, trapped nerves and conditions such as Fibromyalgia. “Our work is aimed at relieving the underlying medical ailment, rather than just the symptoms, resulting in longlasting pain relief and often a minimal risk of recurrence. “We offer daytime and evening appointments as well as Saturday mornings and also have concessionary rates for the over-65s, those in full-time education or on low incomes as well as special rates for emergency services personnel. “To see how osteopathy could help you, call to make an appointment with of our fully qualified and friendly consultants on 0141 889 6666 or visit our website at www.glasgow-osteopaths.co.uk” 28

GLASGOW CHIROPRACTIC PAISLEY Here at our Glasgow Road clinic, we provide massage therapy as well as exercise rehabilitation along with dietary and nutritional advice as well as utilising Chiropractic techniques. Our methods are results orientated so treatment will only begin after a detailed consultation with every patient, this allows us to structure the right course of treatment and produce a tailored treatment plan to meet your needs. We also provide a wide range of massage techniques aimed at targeting common areas of pain and discomfort in the back, neck and other areas of the body. Our therapists use recognised sports and deep tissue massage techniques which help the body to get back to its original state. Our massage therapists are all qualified in multiple massage techniques which allow them to help not only identify the areas of concern for you but treat them effectively. Visit us at www.chiropractorspaisley.co.uk or call 0141 887 5770 to make an appointment.

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ORCHARD CLINIC PAISLEY MASSAGE AND PODIATRY Based on the very street that bears its name, Orchard Clinic Paisley Massage and Podiatry looks to provide an “all-round service” that’s intended to maximise the benefits for their clients. “We are a very busy clinic and there is a high demand for our podiatry service. This is necessary for common foot problems such as corns, hard skin removal and nail problems, but can also prevent any further lower limb and alignment issues”, Orchard’s Claire Hart remarked. “It is essential to take care of our feet, especially as we get older or if you have any medical conditions like diabetes. Most of our clients tend to re-book and we get a lot of word-of-mouth referrals. The feedback can be instant as most people report pain being relieved after the appointment and it’s always gratifying to know we have done our job! “In terms of the holistic side of the business, the most popular treatments are back massage and Thai foot massage. So many people suffer from back, neck or shoulder pain which is why the former is so popular. Back pain can be caused by injury but also by the everyday things that affect our posture like sitting at a desk, on a computer, driving, carrying a heavy handbag or being on a mobile phone. “The aim with our treatments is to get a balance between relaxation and working on specific muscular problems.” added Claire. “Regular massage is excellent for pain management, but it’s also ideal if you want to pamper yourself !” Visit us at www.orchardclinicpaisley.co.uk.

PAISLEY PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE If anyone knows how immensely rewarding it is to improve someone’s quality of life through your skillset, it’s Andrew Binning and the team at Paisley Physiotherapy. After beginning his career at the service of various Scottish football sides, Andrew opened his Paisley clinic in 1998 and has never looked back. “From seeing a few patients in the depths of the main stand at Love St to building up a successful sports injury clinic and eventually setting up Paisley Physiotherapy Centre, I have seen a huge number of people from all over Renfrewshire.” said Andrew. “My wife and business partner, Lesley and I, have been lucky enough to have a loyal and ever-growing clientele and have benefited from many great team members across the years. “We provide a wide range of treatments and offer a large range of modalities that many other practices don’t offer. We provide electrotherapy such as ultrasound and interferential, acupuncture, massage and sports massage, rehabilitation from injury, post-op, manipulation/adjustments, Pilates, and kinesiology taping amongst others.” “We don’t exclusively offer Shockwave Therapy but there are very few clinics who do because of the high initial cost and ongoing maintenance costs,” Andrew continued. “If you check out our Facebook, you can see the number of high-profile clients we’ve treated including players from St Mirren, Rangers and Glasgow Warriors.” See our full range of treatments at www.paisleyphysiotherapy.co.uk. 29

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On Your Marks, Get Set, GO! Whether you’re someone who embarked on a fitness journey during lockdown, or you’re still getting warmed up to the idea, Paisley’s sports and fitness experts are here to help you get active!

CURVES, PAISLEY Curves Paisley was reopened by Siobhan Kavanagh in September of 2019 and has prospered ever since. “My vision was to create a space where women of all ages, shapes and sizes can train, get nutritional guidance & become part of a community,” said Siobhan. “We find that if a member actually has fun when working out and feels valued, she’ll keep coming back as she feels good on an emotional and physical level. “Our key values revolve around supporting and empowering our community every single day! Curves is a gym, an education centre, a social hub and a safe space, as well as a lifeline and a friendship for so many women!” www.curves.eu/uk/clubs/curves-paisley DOOLEY’S CYCLES There’s only one name in Paisley that encapsulates bicycles and that’s Dooley’s Cycles. A proud family business since 1952, there’s few folk in the town who didn’t get their first or favourite bike from the original Moss Street store. Now with bigger premises in Causeyside Street, owner Ian Dooley and his team strive to offer an excellent service at a competitive price. “We have everything you’ll need for cycling,” said Ian. “So, if you’re looking for a first bike or a bike to get to and from work, or looking to race at a top level, we have a full range of mountain bikes, racing bikes, hybrid bikes, E-bikes and kids bikes to suit all budgets. “We also offer full servicing, repairs and a range of cycling accessories, clothing, helmets and footwear plus you can also take advantage of our instore coffee shop.” Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Dooleys-Cycles SUMMITS OUTDOOR Based on Moss Street, Summit Outdoors are outdoor specialists and remain anchored by their founder, Alex, to this day. “Most of our regular customers will have a story involving him”, Summits’ Aleena told us. “He is the most active member out of the lot of us – yet double most of our ages – with humour that would make anyone laugh.” Built around quality products, competitive prices, great customer service and, above all, a passion for the outdoors, they believe that staycations and camping gear will keep them busy throughout spring and summer. “Our main goal is to ensure we can meet this demand by getting enough products in for everyone!” said Aleena. Visit www.summits.co.uk for all your outdoor clothing, footwear, tents and camping essentials. 30

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MUSCLEBOUND UK Crowned best Scottish Independent Sports Retailer in 2018, Musclebound in New Street houses all the leading brands in the fields of sports supplements, MMA and Thai Boxing. “I worked in a sports health shop based in Glasgow and decided it was time to go it alone in 2005,” said owner Kad Ahmad. “Since then, I’ve never looked back and I’ve established a very loyal customer base that trusts me and always comes back for the latest stock. “In this industry, you have to have an insight into what’s coming out on the market and that's aided by experience. “You get to know your customers’ needs and we want to be known as a one stop store.” Visit musclebound.uk.com ICONIC FITNESS Led by Paisley Buddie Fiona McLean, Lawn Street’s Iconic fitness is gearing up for a “lockdown weight knockdown.” “We’re the only locally owned gym at the heart of Paisley and our trainers are from the area as well,” said Fiona. “For us, it’s all about providing a very personal service. Our staff know that the first step through the front door is the hardest. After that, it gets a lot easier. “We have a really diverse client-base, ranging from age 14 to 84 and there’s such a wide range of services on offer, from personalised workouts to 50+ exercise classes plus walking and running clubs. Staying fit and healthy reduces your chance of getting COVID, so come down, keep fit and fight the virus with us!” With memberships available from just £20, visit www. iconic.fitness/join COLD BLOODED SPORTS Cold Blooded Sports in Silk Street is one of Scotland’s leading ice hockey and figure skating specialists, offering a fast, professional and friendly service at competitive prices.Building up a loyal community throughout Renfrewshire, all the team have a substantial background in ice hockey and skating. “This extensive knowledge has allowed us to offer the best service for our customers at Cold Blooded Sports,” said Pamela. “We also offer an after-sale support which is second to none and we provide an expert skate repair & maintenance service too. “We also recently launched our new Sponsored Athlete Ambassador Team, working with players across all levels of the game who represent the ethos of what TeamCBS is all about. We are proud supporters of grass roots ice sports and want to support the athletes who are all about the sport and share our passion in promoting it.” See www.coldbloodedsports.com for further info. 31

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SET YOUR SIGHTS ON

SUMMER

If you’re looking to switch up your eyewear in time for summer, Paisley’s opticians have no shortage of styles for you to choose from. For the bespectacled among us, the return of normal life might just be the incentive we need to get ourselves a new pair of frames, so we’re looking our best for the beer gardens, coffee shop meetups and the nights out to come! Whether you are looking for everyday use or perhaps prescription sunglasses to have ready for when the sunshine arrives, our local experts in optometry have given us their pick for this summer’s essential looks!

BLACK AND LIZARS, 6 NEW STREET, 0141 889 8671

The team at Black and Lizars Optometrists love this ultra-light, stylish ladies’ sunglass which comes in a variety of colours from black, to gold or light brown. The lenses can be customised with your prescription and a Ray-Ban logo and are available as polarised, which helps to cut out light, glare and reflections to enhance and optimise visual performance.

MILLER AND MCCLURE OPTICIANS 24 GLASGOW ROAD, 0141 889 3860

Our top picks are Eco craft frames from 95% recycled metal, biobased castor seed oil, and recycled ocean plastics. They’re designed to be lightweight, comfortable and sustainable. With lots of different frame styles in a range of colours, they include some of the neatest magnetic clips for sun protection. We love them! 32

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OPTICAL EXPRESS OPTICIANS, THE PAISLEY CENTRE, 0141 732 7209

For us, it’s got to be these eye-catching frames from Tom Ford. Finished in a polished, transparent grey, they are a plastic, full rimmed frame with a round shape and are priced at £193.

TOM BAIRD OPTICIANS, 5 HIGH STREET, 0141 889 8622

Here at Tom Baird Opticians, we love to bring you the best variety of frames to choose from. From classics to stunning designers, we have a wide range of glasses to suit every style and at the moment, we’re very fond of these from the Lulu Guinness’ Spring 2021 collection.

MURRAY OPTICIANS, 50 HIGH STREET, 0141 889 4336

We have a new Mulberry ladies’ range in store, for just £165 plus lenses that can be glazed with sunspaces too! These Mulberry Glasses VML122 09DA 53 are a polished black and transparent dark green frame and are designed for women. This adult designer model is a plastic, full rimmed frame with a Cats Eye shape.

SPECSAVERS OPTICIANS PAISLEY, 5 MOSS STREET, 0141 848 9192

Our frame is a unisex Jeff Banks model from our designer range and is priced at £99 including single vision lenses. It is a modern round shape and colour of the season, alongside a grey/blue plastic with a lighter fade effect on the bottom rims. This has proven to be popular with customers of all ages!

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Investing in history, securing the future

aisley town centre is home to some of Scotland’s finest architecture, a thriving local business and cultural scene, and unique historic venues. Those venues are currently being transformed through a multimillion-pound investment by Renfrewshire Council, which will help drive new footfall to the town in the years ahead. Here, we take a look at what is being delivered: PAISLEY MUSEUM The grand building at the top of the High Street recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. It is currently being transformed into an international-class visitor destination expected to attract around 125,000 visitors a year when it reopens in 2023. The building is being redesigned and reimagined by international architects AL_A – with the capacity expanded and the addition of a new wing and entrance, plus outdoor spaces opening up views to the Coats Observatory. Paisley’s internationally-significant collections will be reinterpreted and redisplayed to help tell the town’s world-changing story like never before. 34

PAISLEY TOWN HALL The town hall has been a muchloved centrepiece for life in the town for generations – and the work currently taking place in the building will keep it there for many more. The ongoing transformation will preserve the building’s magnificent 19th-century features but add 21st-century facilities to create one of the West of Scotland’s finest entertainment venues. When work is complete at the end of 2022, expect a main hall with capacity expanded to 1,200, new rooms including a dance studio and café-bar, and a much-improved visitor experience, and a bigger range of events driving new activity day and night. PAISLEY LEARNING AND CULTURAL HUB Also set to open in 2023 is the Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub, a new community, educational and events space on the town’s High Street.It will be a modern and digitally-connected home for the

town’s library services – currently located in a temporary building next to Paisley’s Lagoon Leisure Centre. The facility is being built in a former retail unit – continuing the trend of bringing vacant buildings back into use as cultural facilities, with the Paisley: The Secret Collection museum store already across the road. AND THAT’S NOT ALL… There’s loads more to look forward to. The council is also extending and improving Paisley Arts Centre and remodelling Abbey Close as an outdoor events space, while the £5m TH.CARS2 scheme is helping restore some of the town’s wonderful historic architecture to its former glory. We’ve also seen lots of investment in new private and social housing in and around the town centre in recent years, showing Paisley town centre is recognised as a great place to live, while other community-led venue projects will help bring new cultural activity and footfall in the years ahead.

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A GREAT DAY OUT IN PAISLEY! With a return to normality on the horizon, Paisley is looking to restart its popular events calendar.

e’re getting summer underway with our free family adventure, BRICKLIVE® Animal Paradise! Running from Saturday 26th June until Sunday 15th August, this LEGO® brick trail features hand-built brick endangered animal statues. We’re sure your mini explorers will have a great expedition hunting down these stunning animals across ice caps, jungles, rivers and forests, all in the heart of Paisley town centre!

What will our intrepid voyagers find first – the Bengal Tiger, the Macaws, the Dolphin or the Snow Leopard? Once you’ve had fun with our trail, we have a wide range of great shops and an abundance of fantastic food and drink venues, catering to every taste and budget, where you can have a well-earned rest!

The easing of the restrictions comes a little too late for the town’s traditional Sma’ Shot Day celebrations which will be online this year. This popular day in Paisley’s calendar is named for the famous 1856 victory of the local weavers in an industrial dispute – revolving around payment for one small, unseen but crucial stitch, the ‘sma’ shot’ which bound together the colourful shawls for which the town was world-famous. Head to www.paisley.is on Sat 3 July, you’ll be able to enjoy music, poetry, dance, arts and crafts and so much more! Back to in-person events and we’re hoping this summer will see the return of St. Vincent’s Hospice CarFest to the town. Slightly later than usual, it’s hoped the easing of restrictions will enable this popular family event to go ahead in August with stalls, entertainment and a motoring extravaganza featuring a range of classic, vintage and specialist custom cars. It’s bound to be another fun day out for all the family with all funds raised on the day supporting St. Vincent’s Hospice in Howwood. We also remain hopeful that a more normal autumn and winter events schedule will be able to take place. So, look out for Halloween and Christmas activities and not forgetting our Golden Ticket Competition! Check out www.paisleyfirst.com for details of all our events or follow us on social media! 35

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ALL SMILES

Whether you’re concerned about your canines or wish to remodel your molars, Paisley’s dental clinics have everything you need to help create your perfect smile!

CFAST AT GREENLAW DENTAL CARE We have noticed a huge interest in Cfast in the last few months, whether it's because people have been seeing more of themselves on zoom calls or have just had more time to think about what they see as important. Cfast, otherwise known as Cosmetic Fast Adult Straight Teeth, is a way of moving teeth to correct any issues in appearance that patients may have. This is usually done either with white wires or clear aligners which a patient wears in sequence to move the teeth into their desired position in 9 months or less. Once the teeth are in position, whitening treatment is also carried out. Our patients are huge fans of the system and it has yielded some fantastic results. Since coming back from lockdown, we’ve decided to branch out and offer our well-received Denplan, which allows patients to pay monthly and easily access examinations and hygienist appointments. www.greenlawdentalcare.co.uk 3D SCANNING & MORE AT HAPPY SMILES At Happy Smiles Family Dentist and Implant Centre, our highly qualified and experienced team offer anything from NHS general dental services to aesthetic smile makeovers, invisible braces and dental implants. We are equipped with a 3D CT scanner which has proven to be an invaluable tool for our implant patients. Apart from keeping our patients' oral hygiene at the highest standards, we often help them improve their smiles. After their smile makeovers, we’re thrilled to hear how this procedure has boosted their confidence and made them feel great about themselves. It’s extremely rewarding as we love helping our patients regain a healthy and beautiful smile. www.happy-smiles.co.uk INVISALIGN AND FACIAL REJUVENATION AT DEE DENTAL At Dee Dental, our versatility and ongoing advancements in the practice allows us to continue to provide high quality treatment to our patients. Our smile makeover packages are unique to us and allow any smile to be fully enhanced either with whitening and bonding or whitening, bonding and Invisalign treatment. Patients can also choose to finance these interest free over two years. We are the only platinum Invisalign provider in the area and we have a digital iTero scanner that creates smiles in moments through a simulation. Our dentist Dee has been providing facial rejuvenation for over 6 years, so why not book in now for your aesthetic or cosmetic needs. www.deedentalpaisley.co.uk 36

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STATE OF THE ART TREATMENTS AT ABBEY DENTAL CARE Since Hazel Pahnke and Colin Pennycott bought the practice in 2013, we have invested significantly in modernising our equipment and training our staff to provide the best standard of care to our patients. We have managed to fully refurbish all 3 surgeries including a digital Orthopantomograph machine, our waiting room and patient facilities. The technology and materials we use in dentistry are constantly improving and we place great importance on evolving along with them. As a practice, we are very focused on tooth decay prevention and the Childsmile programme is an excellent way for us to concentrate on providing the best education and advice to avert dental problems before they take hold. www.abbey-dentalcare.co.uk IMPLANTS AND FACIAL AESTHETICS AT COMPLETE DENTISTRY Across the industry, dental implants have become an increasingly popular method of replacing missing teeth. We can now replace missing teeth without having to resort to dentures or bridges, which generally involves electively damaging the adjacent teeth. This way, your smile, confidence and chewing power are all restored with what looks and feels like your own tooth or teeth. Tooth whitening is the most non-invasive and gentlest way of brightening your smile. Meanwhile, facial aesthetics can complement all of our services. The face frames the mouth and if it looks good, it all works together. The practice has been on this site for more than 50 years and even longer within the Paisley area. It’s fitted with state-ofthe-art equipment within a modern internal setting, while the exterior retains the traditional sandstone façade of the area. The team are highly skilled and have been approved to mentor other dentists for more than 25 years. www.completedentistry.co.uk A CALM AND RELAXING EXPERIENCE AT PAISLEY DENTAL CLINIC With both surgeries within the High Street practice on the ground floor, Paisley Dental Clinic is fully accessible for customers of all ages, with the option of late evening and Saturday appointments too if required. We welcome both NHS and private patients and offer a full range of dentistry services including crowns and veneers. Our services for dentures are also popular with many repeat customers. We pride ourselves on our friendly atmosphere, offering a calm and relaxing ambiance for patients in a central location. We are currently accepting NHS patients if you are looking to register with a new dentist in Paisley town centre. Find us on Facebook or call 0141 887 9270 to make an appointment. 37

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SPOTLIGHT

Bears by Sue Quinn For more than 30 years, Sue Quinn has been quietly overseeing her award-winning bearmaking business in a secluded corner of Paisley. Now, the author and former star of Sewing Quarter is preparing to relocate from her long-time headquarters to a brand-new shopfront in the town centre.

dentifiable by their brass “SQ” badge, Sue’s mohair-based woodland animals are sought after by admirers the world over, allowing her to turn a lifelong passion into a thriving business. “I’m originally from Nottingham, but I came up here when I got married to a Paisley man,” Sue reflected. “I started at trade

and craft fairs in the late 80’s, establishing relationships with big customers such as Hamleys and Dax. Today, I sell to a lot of collectors who often end up closer to friends and you develop a real rapport. Otherwise, people buy my bears for their children as a special present. Obviously, a teddy bear is a teddy bear but when you really look at them, they’re incredibly distinct. So, people can tell a Sue Quinn bear apart and my style has evolved over the years, everything is all hand-cut and hand embroidered.” “I’ve had a longstanding relationship with an agent in Japan and had some amazing experiences over there”, Sue continued. “Over time, orders have come in from Australia, Africa, America and all across Europe. The bears that I’m working on presently are going to someone in Kenya. They’ve already got three and they’re after four more!”

Sue’s years of dedication have resulted in global acclaim and her numerous books on how to make soft toys, heirloom bears and felt animals prompted grateful readers to let her know that her work had provided a much-needed distraction during the recent lockdown. While for Sue, she’s been busy preparing for a new beginning on Lawn Street. “At the start of last year, I began looking for a new place. It wasn’t easy, but I’ve found my new location on Lawn Street and I’m really, really pleased. I see it as a real opportunity and we’ll hopefully be opening in the coming months. Even when I've been tucked away in Hunter Street, people who wanted to find me have done. So, having a shopfront now will just make it even easier for them to do so!” To learn more about Sue Quinn and her award-winning work, please visit www.bearsbysuequinn.co.uk

Love Paisley Magazine Issue One