Park Life July/August 2022 by Park Life Scotland

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

JULY/AUG 22

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

THE OAK TREE INN

Park Life | Business

Balmaha | Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond Coffee Co

Comfortable accommodation

Delicious home made hearty meals

We serve our home roasted speciality coffee in all of our St Mocha coffee shops and at The Oak Tree Inn.

All rooms are en-suite and are well equipped to make your stay with us comfortable and enjoyable. Each room has a unique character, and all of the deluxe rooms in the cottages have views towards the loch.

Our philosophy is to reflect, where possible, the best Scotland has to offer. Passionate about food, our chefs carefully select our ingredients, ideally sourced as close the The Oak Tree as possible, to produce the very best of traditional Scottish cooking.

Available online! www.lochlomondcoffee.co.uk

CALL NOW TO BOOK 2

01360 870 357

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Oak Tree Inn Balmaha Glasgow G63 0JQ

theoaktreeinn oaktreeinn info@theoaktreeinn.co.uk www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

Park Life | Business

14 CAMPERVAN HOOK UPS

TOILETS & SHOWERS

LOCH KATRINE CRUISES

LOCHSIDE CAFES

LOCHSIDE SHOP

CYCLE HIRE

•

LL of FAME HA •

EXCELLENCE

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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CERTIFICATE of

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10 LODGES ON-SITE SLEEP 2-5

Contents

JULY - AUGUST 2022 EDITION

Useful Numbers �� 5 New West Highland Way Bridge ��10/11 What’s New in the Park Life Area ��18/19 Gardening Tips �� 23 Summer Recipe �� 26 Meet Chris McKenna ��36/37

New West Highland Way Bridge

Park Life Events/What’s on ��42/43 Mugdock Events ��44/45 Business Gateway �� 47 Fitness �� 52 Trekking Adventure ��54/55 Gartness Beer Festival �� 56 RSPB ��58/59 Index �� 70

What's New in the Park Life Area

Park Life What's On Guide

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Competition WIN a DBB Stay for two at Karma Lake of Menteith �� 28/29

Chris McKenna

Park Life | Business

Over 100 combinations of made-to-measure doors Transform your kitchen by replacing your existing doors and drawer fronts with our extensive range of stylish, made-to-measure designs. With over 30 styles and over 90 colours there is an almost endless choice of permutations. Our contemporary, classic and traditional designs look just as good in bathrooms and storage areas.

Park Life Useful Numbers Police non-emergency 101 Police Emergency 112 or 999 Scottish Water 0800 0778778 Scottish Power 0800 0270072 Stir;ing Council 08452 777000 NHS 24 Helpline 111 Covid Helpline Scotland 111

Health Centres Drymen Kippen Balfron Aberfoyle Callander Killearn Strathblane Surgery Dentists Drymen Balfron Pharmacy Aberfoyle Balfron Callander Callander Drymen Killearn Strathblane Post Offices Drymen Killearn

01360 660203 01360 850237 01360 440515 01877 382421 01877 331000 01360 550339 01360 770340 01360 661097 01360 440777 01877 389 127 01360 440430 01877 330016 01877 330132 01360 661285 01360 550242 01360 770731 01360 660391 01360 550248

Alabaster

Verona

London Concrete

Matt Denim

Balfron Callander Strathblane Aberfoyle Kippen

01360 449409 01877 330267 01360 770291 01877 382231 01786 870237

Actioninmind info@actioninmind.org.uk 07387 205441(Anyone over 16 years) Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650 Age Scotland 0800 12 44 222 Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87 Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 Mind (mental health) 0300123 3393 or text 86463

Samaritans Scotland 116 123 Scottish National Debtline 0808 808 4000 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Welcome

JULY - AUGUST 2022 EDITION

In This Edition... Always bring the weather with you…

Local entrepreneur David Mackie, who recently opened the bakery and deli in Drymen, went slightly further afield when he decided to go walking. His Himalayan trek features on pages 54 & 55, with some stunning accompanying photographs.

This is very definitely summer, although to visitors it might not always seem like it. Yes, four seasons in one day isn’t unusual here. But isn’t the weather more a state of mind? Smiles abound around the Park, and there are lots of familiar and shiny new summer events and activities for residents and visitors to remind us that the weather we bring is more than just the sun in the sky.

We’re so looking forward to a good summer this year, so let’s all enjoy the weather we bring!

Katrina, Lisa, Simon The Park Life Team

Last issue I got in an early mention of the Gartness Beer Festival. I have a little update that didn’t make it into their ad (page 56). Sponsorship opportunities are now available, with details on their website. There is a very eye-catching one; have your company name etched on the event glasses (which customers take home at the end of the evening). At £500 it’s a charity donation with a handy payback, and they’ll include four event tickets. The Lomond Trail, which we have mentioned before, has now completed construction. The RSPB Loch Lomond facilities are now a coherent whole, with car park, visitor centre, trail, and boardwalk all open and accessible for visitors. Lots of information, and a very detailed and useful map are on pages 58 & 59.

Next Edition

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

Katrina - Director Lisa - Sales Director

isa L a n & i r t a K

SEPT/OCT 22

SEPT / OCT 2022 Deadline 12th AUGUST

T: 07791 976910 E: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk Keep up to date - Follow us on Facebook

PRIVATE HIRE - JGM Executive Travel 0742 7607100 Katrina - Director | e: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07791 976910 Lisa - Sales Director | e: lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07792 066706 www.parklifescotland.co.uk Graphic Design by Skep Design - Simon Jones | e: simon.jones@skepdesign.co.uk | m: 07817 312062

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

ALL OUR PRODUCTS ARE ‘READY TO BURN’ ASSURED

�-woodforf uel.com

A local family business producing reliably high quality wood fuel products the forest to your fire. Suppliers offrom Sustainable Scottish Firewood

and Woodchip

A local family business producing reliably high quality wood fuel products from the forest to your fire �

Suppliers of Sustainable Scottish Firewood and Woodchip

Owoodsure assured quality woodfuel

l{ILN & FORCE DRIED LOGS Force Dried Softwood Logs

8, 10, 12, 14, 16 & 20”Lengths

All our softwood and hardwood logs are

Kiln Dried screened to removeKindling loose bark and debris, and then either kiln or force Hardwood Logs Supplied in dried to ensure all products are consistently Standard 10” Lengths handy sacks at

EASY DELIVERY

the correct low moisture content.

LOGS AVAILABLE IN VARIOUS LENGTHS

Our specialised production With hydraulic crane & process handy enables us to cut your logs to the correct trolley our friendly delivery length for your appliance, to help achieve drivers will always try to deliver your logs where you need them

ORDER ONLINE

RELIABLE & FLEXIBLE DELIVERY SERVICE

Our reliable and friendly delivery drivers

The quickest and most convenient will always try to deliver your logs when way to order and pay. and where you need them.

PRODUCTS For more information please contact ‘The Log Lady’ Anna • Force Dried Softwood Logs 8, 10, 12,01360 14, 16 & 20" lengths 449369 07824 366321 • Force & Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs Inwww.woodforfuel.com anna@woodforfuel.com standard 10" lengths • Kindling Supplied in handy sacks • Woodchip Force Dried and Screened Suitable for Biomass Boilers & CHP Units assured quality woodfuel

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

s ts

w Arbori o g as

Park Life | Business

Tree care • All Tree Work Carried Out • 24/7 Emergency Work • Tree Hazard Assessment • Tree Felling • Crown Thinning • Crown Reduction • All Waste Recycled • Free Call Out Covid-19 All work achieved in line with Government guidelines We are a small family run tree surgery business. We offer a prompt, reliable, competitive service for Glasgow and the surrounding areas. We are fully insured and will happily give you a Free quote. Please phone us on 07780 200 111. Established in 2012 and happy to give references from previous customers.

The new and modern way to tree surgery

0141 316 5764 07780 200111 8

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

info@glasgow-arborists.co.uk www.glasgow-arborists.co.uk

Park Life | Business

REPLACE THE PANE, NOT THE FRAME Has your Double Glazing Steamed Up?

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE all customers that an average quote will take no longer than 20 MINS!

You may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution...Just replace the glass! If you see condensation in your windows, your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Peter a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear Windows...Service with a Smile! ALL GLAZING BACKED BY OUR

PRIORITY FREEPHONE

25 YEAR GUARANTEE

0800 61 21 118 WWW.CLOUDY2CLEAR.COM

Broken or damaged windows? Faulty locks, handles or hinges?

Here’s what some of our customers had to say about our work:

• Equipment Supplied (Trade Prices) • Project Managed Installations • Professional Quality Installations • References Available On Request • All Work Guaranteed

07887 711 165 01360 771952 bathroomtransformations@btconnect.com

To arrange a free estimate please contact Stevie Melvin

Check our reviews in

FREE SURVEY, QUOTATION AND DESIGN

Installation service only also available

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

New West Highland Way Bridge

new West Highland Way bridge has been installed just south of Crianlarich in memory of Scotland and UK ultra-runner John Kynaston, who sadly passed away in January 2021. John, aged 61 at the time, was a committee member of the West Highland Way Race, one of the world’s longest established

ultra-marathons. John’s family, friends and the ultra-running community organised a Crowdfunder to raise £20,000 for the replacement bridge, just north of Beinglas Farm. The original bridge was washed away in a severe storm in 2019. The memorial bridge is a wonderful

personal tribute and will be appreciated by walkers and runners for many years to come. You can donate to the West Highland Way via their website. Contact them to discuss other ways to support the route, perhaps in memory of someone or to mark a special occasion. www.westhighlandway.org

Left Stuart Mearns, Director of Place at the National Park Authority and right Ian Beattie MBE, West Highland Way Race Director.

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gaelic stories on the west highland way The West Highland Way has just launched a series of short films with Gaelic Stories from the 96-mile longdistance route, filming at locations including Milngavie, Drymen, Rowardennan and Inversnaid. The bi-lingual video stories presented by Colin Stone have been created to provide rich content and

Pictured: Presenter Colin Stone interviewing Kelly Gray, owner of Garrison of Inversnaid about her connection with the West Highland Way

ideas for people to explore further, tying in with VisitScotland’s Year of Scotland’s Stories (‘Bliadhna Nan Sgeul’ 2022). This will bring Gaelic to a broader audience and celebrate using the language along the Slighe Taobh an Iar na Gàidhealtachd (West Highland Way).

Here are some the examples of place names:

The films look at famous characters and stories such as Raibeart Ruadh MacGriogair (Rob Roy), Roibert a Briuis (Robert the Bruce), and the Brooch of Lorn at Dalrigh, mixed with some contemporary Gaelic stories from people who the trail has recently inspired.

Rubha Aird Eònain (Rowardennan) Meaning ‘The point of the headland of Adamnan’

Research on the meanings behind 96 place names along the West Highland Way was also part of the project.

Inbhir Snàthaid (Inversnaid) Meaning ‘The mouth of Allt na Snàthaid’ (the needle-like stream) Drumainn (Drymen) Meaning ‘ridge place’

The project by the West Highland Way is supported by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and can be viewed on www.westhighlandway.org

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Park Life Magazine Sept - Oct 2022 edition

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

SEPT/OCT 22

coming soon!

The next edition of Park Life Magazine will cover September & October 2022. Deadline for copy is the 12th of August. If you wish to advertise please contact Lisa 07792 066706 lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk

d • Croftamie ie • Strathblane • Blanefiel Bearsden • Milngav Kippen • Gargunnock ity together covering: Buchlyvie • Arnprior • e Bringing your local commun • Gartocharn • Fintry • rd • Balloch • Gartmor • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Aberfoyle • Kinlocha Drymen • Killearn • Balfron r • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk Callande • Menteith of Port Thornhill • Ruskie •

• 8 SEATER LUXURY TRAVEL • PERSONAL CHAUFFEUR • GOLF TOURS • AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Events & Articles please contact myself Katrina@parklifescotand.co.uk Tel: 07791 976910

• WEDDINGS • BESPOKE TOURS & SIGHTSEEING • PARTY NIGHTS

Advanced booking required. Please contact us for more information. 12 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

LOMOND STUMP REMOVAL

Park Life | Business

Stirling, Loch Lomond & Glasgow

Tree & Hedge Stump Removal What we do with your unwanted tree stumps. Using lawn-friendly specialist stump grinding machines, Lomond Stump Removal will grind your tree stumps into mulch, removing stumps 6 to 12 inches below ground level. The mulch is used to fill the hole to ground level. This enables the ground to be restored back to grass or flower bed, or it can be paved over. We use various machines to efficiently and effectively grind stumps of different sizes and in awkward access locations.

Arborist Services We also provide full arborist services through our associates, including felling, crown thinning and lifting, pollarding etc.

Clients

ND LOMO MOVAL RE tamie P M U ST Crof es

d in mat Base endly esti ipment equ e fri Fre riendly ervice f ls Lawn fessiona rden a o r P ed g Fenc essibility acc

Private Residential/Garden Commercial Businesses Tree Service Companies Councils Landscape Professionals Building and Roads Contractors Utilities Contractors Agricultural Industry

Free quote & best price call or text Mike on

07802 355118 or 0141 356 6222 or email info@glasgowstumpremoval.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

All types of quality timber buildings built to your own specification. Fencing, gates & decking Agent for Lidget Compton Concrete Garages View our displays by appointment only. Please call, email or message us on Facebook to arrange. Kersie Bank, Kersie Terrace, South Alloa, Stirlingshire FK7 7NJ Open Tel 01324 831033 / 0777 057 4461 www.patersonsgardenbuildings.co.uk 6 days

Free quotes and advice offered.

We are a Local Gardening company who offer a wide range of landscaping and gardening services. All our work is carried out to the highest of standards and at the best prices possible. We ensure all of our customers receive exactly what they want and we will always give genuine and honest advice. We do not cut corners and all our work is quoted and provided in detail to our customers.

FENCING SERVICES • TURFING SERVICES GARDEN CLEARANCE, MAINTENANCE HEDGE CUTTING • LANDSCAPERS • PLANTING LAWN MOWING • WEED CONTROL SOFT LANDSCAPING • PRUNING • SLABBING For more information contact:

T: 07899 044255 E: stumarsh2006@gmail.com

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

To discuss your project and get a free estimate please call Dugie on Tel: 07734 069952

www.dugieclarkstonework.co.uk

Garages & Bothies Bridge Repairs New Houses & Extensions Garden Features Dry Stone Dykes Building Conservation Patios & Paving Private & Commercial Work Shandon Wood, Ruskie, Stirling FK8 3LG | Tel: 07734 069952Tel: 01786 850764 | Email: dugieclarkcm@btinternet.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Professional Tree Services All tree & hedge work carried out Free Quotations • Fully Insured NPTC Qualified

Sorbus-Biz-Side1.pdf

26/10/2016

11:46

CALL: 0141 942 2430 • M: 07970 896860 • M: 07428 746447

EMAIL: LORIMERS51@GMAIL.COM • WWW.TREESURGEONGLASGOW.COM Fencing C Tree Surgery Landscaping M Vegetation Management Y

www.lochardlandservices.co.uk CM

CMY

A family run business, based in the Trossachs National Park . We offer a friendly, experienced and professional service to help with your outdoor needs. With a wealth of knowledge, qualifications, skills and experience in arboriculture and countryside management, we strive to enhance the environment with every job we do.

Contact to arrange an obligation free quote!

Email: lumberjack308@aol.com Tel: 07342 234178

• TREE REMOVAL & TREE PRUNING • HEDGE & SHRUB TRIMMING • SITE CLEARANCE & STUMP GRINDING • TREE PLANTING & FIREWOOD

078 8069 6877 info@sorbustreeservices.co.uk www. sorbustreeservices.co.uk

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

MACINTOSH

FENCING

CONTRACTING

For all your equestrian, agricultural & garden fencing needs

As farmers and horse owners we understand the importance of excellent fencing and services POO HOOVERING PADDOCK CLEANING

Monthly price plans available to help you keep on top of your poo picking. Helps reduce worm burden and risk of equine grass sickness. • • • • •

Stock & Equestrian Fencing/Garden Fencing All types of fencing erected, no job too big or small Fence maintenance Garden & tree clearing & maintenance Paddock maintenance,fencing, spraying & harrowing

Talk to us about how we can help you Free no obligation quotes • Quality service guaranteed MacIntosh Fencing

Contact James Macintosh on 07969 506305 or email us on macintoshfencing@gmail.com

John Currie BR ICK & STONEWOR K

Stonework and PavingSkills Specialist Tr aditional

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

M: 07966 864811 Steps & paths

Lime Mortar Work & Repointing

E: johncurrie@hotmail.com Patios & Slabbing www.johncurriebrickandstonework.co.uk Fireplaces

General Building & Property Maintenance

MAGAZINE

John Gardner Mobile Engineers call today for free advice & quotation Telephone 01360 550087 Mobile 07966 864811 Email johncurrie@hotmail.com

GARDEN EQUIPMENT R E PA I R

Your what’s on guide & advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Bearsden & Milngavie Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page, with over 3000 likes now and daily updates on local news and events. Send us your events on Facebook and we can help spread the word for you to make your day even busier!

We service and repair all types of equipment from lawnmowers and ride ons to chainsaws, quad bikes and trailers. Providing a high quality mobile and workshop service with fixed price servicing. All enquiries welcome.

Call John on 07415 951485 jgengineers@hotmail.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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What's new in the Park Life Area Here are just a few of the many recent positive additions to villages in the Park Life area.

free water refills The Park Life area has quite a few of the over 70 Scottish Water Top-up-Taps in Scotland – dispensing free water in Milngavie (pictured below), Balloch, Drymen, Trossachs Pier & Stronachlachar Pier at Loch Katrine, Balmaha, Rowardennan, Aberfoyle and Callander. The newest are in Drymen and the ones at either end of Loch Katrine.

new cycling facilities at drymen Drymen Community Development Trust has installed a bike maintenance station and e-bike charging facility, funded by Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. This is part of their project to refurbish the bus shelter and improve the village square area. Drymen also has a new Heritage Trail with accompanying audio podcast stories presented by residents, details on drymen.org/heritage-trail

full steam ahead at loch katrine The plans to restore the 122-year-old Steamship Sir Walter Scott and get her back plying the waters of Loch Katrine, in the heart of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, later this year have taken a significant step forward with the announcement of a £130,000 grant award from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. With this, other grant awards, and generous public donations, the Steamship is currently being restored and aims to resume sailing soon.

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

also, by loch katrine Stronachlachar has extra parking facilities, including loch-view camper van and motor home bays by the popular Pier Café. There are also information boards promoting the history of Steamships and the Aqueduct system's story that has provided water for much of West and Central Scotland since the 1800s.

new paths at gartocharn Read more in the magazine, on page 58, about the recently opened excellent new Lomond Trail to Aber Shore, linking two sections of the RSPB reserve for the first time with a 1.3km accessible trail. Meanwhile, much of the pathway to the popular Dumpling (Duncryne Hill) has been resurfaced by Kilmaronock Development Trust, which as you can see from the before and after photographs is a big improvement from the old extremely muddy path.

Stronachlachar

Lomond Trail to Aber Shore

Dumpling Path before

Dumpling Path after www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

LOMOND STUMP REMOVAL

Stirling, Loch Lomond & Glasgow

Arborist Services We also provide full arborist services through our associates, including felling, crown thinning and lifting, pollarding etc.

Clients Private Residential/Garden Commercial Businesses Tree Service Companies Councils Landscape Professionals Building & Roads Contractors Utilities Contractors Agricultural Industry

Professional Tree Surgeons • Tree Removals • Tree Pruning • Hedge Cutting • Stump Removal • Tree Surveys • Logs Our qualified, insured and experienced team is based in Doune, specialising in all aspects of tree surgery and arboriculture. Call or email Malcolm for a free, no obligation quote.

L STUM OMOND Base P REMO d in Cro VAL Fre

e ftam Lawn friendly estim ie frien at dl Prof essi y equip es Fenc onal serv ment e i acce d garden ce ssibi lity

Free quote & best price call or text Mike on

07802 355118 or 0141 356 6222 or email info@glasgowstumpremoval.co.uk

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

T : 01786 821750 M : 07428 122018 E: malcolm@tdtrees.co.uk www.tdtrees.co.uk

SCOTIA CONTRACTS

Park Life | Business

GROUNDWORKS | LANDSCAPING | BUILDING

• Site clearance, excavations, foundations and driveway construction. • Land drainage, Drainage and septic tank installation. • Extensions, remodelling & conversions. • Garage, garden room and holiday cabin construction.

Established since 2000

• Patios, fencing, decking & turfing.

We take great care and pride in the work we do, so if you like what you see please feel free to call us on 07818 002770. kenny.stewart@scotiacontracts.co.uk

www.scotiacontracts.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk | 21

Park Life | Business

Buy Local at...

L Y CA ER E L O L IV VIC DE SER

AMAZING DEALS ON GARDEN EQUIPMENT Top brands of garden & ground care equipment

Stirling Road, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0AA T: 01360 660 688 frasercrobb.co.uk

Expert advice on equipment to hire or buy

Craig Tree Care

Servicing & repair from highly trained engineers

Professional Tree Surgeons

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

t: 01360 449 275 | m: 07725 834 846 Experienced landscapers 1.5ton digger and driver hire. All aspects of landscaping undertaken at competitive prices. Free estimates. Booking now.

Fencing • Decking • Driveways Slab/Concrete base • Patios Retaining walls • Digger work David Haggerty T: 07950 613068 • E: haggertybros@aol.com 22 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

gardening in july summer is progressing This is often one of the hottest months of the year and a great time to sit out and enjoy your garden. Keep plants looking good by regularly dead-heading, and you'll enjoy a longer display of blooms. Make sure you keep new plants well watered, using grey water where possible, and hoe off weeds, which thrive in the sunshine.

water tubs and new plants if dry, but be water-wise Watering is one of the most important jobs when growing plants in containers. Roots need a balance of air and water to grow well which is easy to provide if you have a good quality compost or soil.

deadhead bedding plants Also repeat-flowering perennials, to ensure continuous flowering Keep plants looking attractive and encourage more blooms, whether in beds and border, containers or hanging baskets.

Care for houseplant while on holiday Most houseplants will tolerate a few days' absence without suffering, but absences of more than a week call for some creative measures to provide valuable moisture in the right quantity.

1. Check clematis for signs of clematis wilt 2. Pick courgettes before they become marrows 3. Treat apple scab 4. Clear algae, blanket weeds and debris from ponds, and keep them topped up 5. Order catalogues for next year’s spring flowering bulbs 6. Give the lawn a quick-acting summer feed, especially if not given a spring feed

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Natural Stone

Architectural ~ Walling ~ Paving ~ Ornamental All Enquiries Welcome

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

www.tradstocks.co.uk

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Perfect Family Day out come to Edenmill Farm for one of our Animal Experiences!

Park Life | Business

Visit our Petting Zoo or take our cheeky Alpaca’s out on a Trek. The Petting Zoo Experience allows you to feed and meet the alpaca’s, chickens, ducks, sheep, rabbits and guniea pigs. You learn all about the animals and get up close and personal with them. An Alpaca Trek last 45mins to an hour where you get to take the alpacas on a gentle walk around the Scottish Countryside learning all about their unique characters. Private Parties & group bookings also available. For more information visit: www.edenmill.co.uk or email info@edenmill.co.uk Edenmill Farm, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9AX Tel: 01360 771707

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Park Life Recipe

Victoria Sponge Loaf Cake Preparation 35 mins Cooking time 1 hour plus cooling Ingredients • sunflower or vegetable oil , for the tin • 200g butter , softened • 200g caster sugar • 4 medium eggs , beaten • 200g self-raising flour

• 2 tbsp milk • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 400g strawberries • 50g icing sugar • 200g strawberry jam • half a lemon, juiced • 200ml double cream

Method STEP 1 Oil a 950g loaf tin (ours measured 19 x 9cm across the base) and line with a strip of baking parchment, leaving a little hanging over the edges – this will help you lift the cake out later. Heat the oven to 170C/150C fan/gas 3. STEP 2 Put the butter and caster sugar in a large bowl, or stand mixer. Beat together using an electric whisk or the mixer until pale and fluffy – this will take a few minutes. STEP 3 Gradually add the egg, a little at a time, beating well between each addition until the mixture is smooth. Add a tablespoon or two of the flour if it’s starting to curdle. STEP 4 Add the remaining flour, the milk and vanilla, and mix until there are no visible streaks of flour. Scrape into the prepared tin, then use a spatula to evenly spread it and smooth the surface. Bake on the middle shelf of the oven for 50 mins-1 hr, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. If any wet cake mixture clings to the skewer, bake for 5 mins more, then check again. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 mins, then carefully transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

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STEP 5 Chop four of the strawberries into small pieces and mix with 1 tsp of the icing sugar. Set aside. Halve or quarter some of the remaining strawberries and leave the rest whole. Mix the remaining icing sugar with 2 tsp of the jam and all the lemon juice to make a thick icing – it should be thick enough to drizzle down the sides of the cake. Pour the cream into a bowl and whisk until it’s just holding its shape – be careful not to overwhisk, as it will continue to thicken as you pipe it. Transfer the cream to a piping bag fitted with a fine star nozzle. STEP 6 Slice the cake in half lengthways through the middle using a sharp serrated knife. Spread a little of the remaining jam over the base layer. Pipe half the whipped cream over in a zig-zag pattern and top with the chopped strawberries and any syrupy juice from the bowl. Sandwich with the top of the cake. Pipe the remaining whipped cream over in the same way, then arrange the halved, quartered and whole strawberries on top. Drizzle over the icing to finish. Best served the same day, but will keep covered in the fridge for up to three days.

Park Life | Business

Join us for

IN BALMAHA Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Great coffee, cakes, beer, wine and more. Please visit our NEW website for current opening times www.perchalongtheway.co.uk Pet friendly & Muddy boots welcome. Jude’s doggy ice cream back in stock!

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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New owners at Karma Lake of Menteith offer fresh dining out and function opportunities for the local market

he former Lake of Menteith Hotel is now Karma Lake of Menteith, the latest addition to a worldwide collection of outstanding resorts and estates owned by the applauded Karma Group. Keen to create a relaxing retreat in Scotland, they could not have chosen better than this picturesque area Park Life readers know and love. Now, the charming eighteen bedroom Hotel with its own Malt Whisky Vault, is appealing to local customers all over the Stirling & Trossachs area to come and discover its superb dining out opportunities, as well as consider it for functions, private dining, weddings and other family celebrations. With a number of dog friendly rooms, guests can bring their four legged friends if they are staying the night. The bright and airy dining room with its own conservatory and wooden deck overlooking the lake, is the perfect setting in which to enjoy delicious dishes such as Slow cooked Highland Beef Short Rib, Roast Spring Lamb & Confit Leg Smoked Duck. There’s also a full vegan menu, including vegan sorbets & ice

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creams, plus a tasty tapas menu too, with three tapas dishes for £12.95. Maybe accompany your meal with a glass or two of one of Karma’s specially curated wines which are part of a worldwide collection. The Malt Vault is currently being redesigned to resemble a very exclusive “gentleman’s club”, with new furniture and muted lighting. Soon you’ll be able to sink into a relaxing leather sofa to enjoy your whisky! If whisky is your thing, you certainly won’t be disappointed here, with dozens of Malts to choose from. If you’d like a tutored tasting this can be arranged with General Manager, Chris Diplock who is committed to growing the resort’s current collection, alongside linking up with as many quality local food and drink suppliers as he can. He’s looking to have locally produced Karma honey too. Chris, a former Regional Director and Vice President of Karma India, has come out of retirement to head up the new Scottish resort.

sourced where possible and prepared with real care and attention. We feel that it’s important to have a separate menu for vegans and vegetarians so that they are getting a wide choice.” “Why not book a room for the night and enjoy our full cooked breakfast in the morning as you look out over the lake?” “We’d be delighted to talk to you about any special functions you may be planning too. We have new wedding & function packages coming soon,” finished Chris. Further details on Karma Lake of Menteith, including menus and room pricing at https://karmagroup.com/ find-destination/karma-resorts/karma-lake-of-menteith/

He said: “The opportunity to head up our new resort at the truly stunning Lake of Menteith was just too tempting a proposition for me to miss. The resort is a fantastic addition to the Karma portfolio. Many of our Karma locations have a calming holistic air to them, and certainly you feel that here - looking out over the Lake is truly mesmerising with Stirling’s hills and mountains in the distance. It’s so peaceful and tranquil that you can’t help but feel better when you come here, so important for guests after the trials and tribulations of the last two years.” “We are very much targeting the local market with our food & drink offering,” added Chris. “We want local customers to feel valued here. We hope that they will come along and discover what we are doing, with many areas of the hotel getting an exciting new look, such as the Malt Vault.” “We believe that we offer real value for money in the restaurant, with the very best of Scotland on a plate, a wide choice of dishes for everyone, locally

With more than forty four resorts, retreats and estates all over the world, including Bali, Thailand and India, together with prime locations in Europe and Australia, Karma Group is an award-winning international travel and lifestyle brand offering extraordinary experiences and exclusive curated entertainment in the world’s most beautiful locations. The luxury brand is the brainchild of British born entrepreneur, John Spence, who had the vision to create a holistic, connected community of five-star destinations, linking like-minded individuals on every continent. Karma Lake of Menteith is the Group’s first Scottish acquisition. www.karmagroup.com

WIN a DBB stay for two at Karma Lake of Menteith! To enter the competition visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Terms & Conditions – there is no cash alternative, prize is not transferable, prize must be taken by end of November 2022 and may exclude bank holidays and other dates specified by the Hotel.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

MAGAZINE

WIN! Don’t forget to enter our fabulous COMPETITION! WIN a DBB stay for two at Karma Lake of Menteith! p28 To enter our competition visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

2023 WEDDING PACKAGE

£3545

45 Day Guests 85 Evening Guests

Venue hire & ceremony charge Glass of Prosecco on arrival Master of ceremonies 1/2 bottle of house wine for your meal Glass of Prosecco for toasts Cake stand & knife 3 course Honeyman menu Table stationery Hot filled rolls for 85 evening guests Dance floor Standard table linen

available sunday - friday dates Jan, feb & march 2023

Subject to availability Number is based on adult guests Chiavari chairs & ivory linen available at an additional cost

T: 0141 483 1602 E: weddings@houseforanartlover.co.uk W: www.houseforanartlover.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

CAMERON CINEMA PA R K L I F E E XC LU S I V E O F F E R Join us at the Cameron House Cinema and enjoy an exclusive Parklife readers offer. Sink into a sumptuous red velvet armchair, enjoy your favourite cinema movies and snacks from the kiosk, and watch as the magic unfolds on the big screen.

FA M I LY T I C K E T

TICKET FOR TWO

Includes popcorn & soft drinks*

£45

£30

Q U OT E PA R K L I F E

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR CINEMA LISTINGS

CAMERONHOUSE.CO.UK For more information and to book please contact our Reservations Team T E L E P H O N E 0 1 3 8 9 3 1 2 2 1 0 | E M A I L R E S E R VA T I O N S @ C A M E R O N H O U S E . C O . U K LO C H LO M O N D | W E ST D UN BA RTO N S H IR E | S COT L A N D | G 8 3 8 QZ Terms and conditions A family ticket is for two adults and two children (children 12 years and under). One box of popcorn and soft drink included per person. www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Main Street, Croftamie, G63 0EU

BBQ's Evening Meals Fully Licensed

MAIN STREET, CROFTAMIE

Café

Takeaway

Private Hire Venue

We are a family run café serving delicious coffee, home baking, breakfast, lunch, brunch, afternoon teas & more. We welcome dogs and have both indoor & outdoor seating available as well as a quirky takeaway window for those on the go.

Bistro Nights & BBQ's

Live Music Nights

Afternoon Teas

Check our website/socials for updates or call us to find out more.

Private Hire Events & Parties

Fully Licensed

See you soon! 01360 661376 www.thebutandben.co

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life talks with... Chris McKenna Community Activation Officer

or three years, Christopher McKenna has been part of Active Stirling’s Sport, Physical Activity and Inclusion team. Since October 2021, he has looked after the Balfron and McLaren High School cluster areas. Park Life Magazine asked Chris about the role and his plans for developing sport within the villages.

Why do you do it? I am very fortunate to have had a wealth of sports opportunities throughout my life. During that time, I have learned that I am not very gifted at sport, but instead that sport has the power to make a positive difference in people’s lives if used intentionally in the right way. Thanks to sport, I have made friends for life, found a sense of purpose, learned new skills, and maintained a healthy lifestyle (although that can be the tricky bit!). In my role, I help identify and work with others to find those same experiences and memories I have had.

Who do you work with?

What is a Community Activation Officer? My role is to support communities, clubs and individuals to engage with and strengthen the sport and physical activity opportunities across the Balfron & McLaren High School Cluster areas. I aim to help break down barriers to participation and contribute to reducing inequalities in sports and physical activity. As part of my role, I support the delivery of new and existing sports and physical activity programmes throughout various facilities in the community in partnership with others.

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The Community Activation role allows me to work with various community-based groups, clubs and people. The local club infrastructure is key to sustainable opportunities that people can access locally. I currently support 16 clubs affiliated through Clubsport Stirling, Stirling’s sports council, including Bike Trossachs (Mountain Biking), Callander Bowling Club, Callander Golf Club, Loch Venachar Sailing Club, Fintry Sport & Recreation Club, Strathblane Lawn Tennis Club and Strathendrick RFC (Rugby). Support includes school links, funding, profiling, coach education, events, and governance. I want to understand community needs better, empower leadership and foster collaboration, as that is required to connect people to participation that is right for them.

What next? I hope to raise the profile of local sport & physical activity with case studies and club segments in future issues. Also, I welcome anyone getting in touch if they want to find out more about local clubs and opportunities or to chat about sport and your community over a cup of tea! I look forward to hearing from you. mckennac@activestirling.org.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Come and join us at Mugdock Country Park this summer!

chool will soon be out for the summer and after a couple of years of uncertainty, we are pleased to have a full events programme in place for July and August.

If you're looking for refreshments then there’s something for everyone. In the Courtyard, Spider Monkey offers speciality coffees and teas alongside sandwiches, soup and cakes, and the Stables Tea

Take a look at what’s on offer via our website at www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk and call our Visitor Centre on 0141 956 6100 to book a place or pop in and see us the next time you’re at the Park. Our Visitor Centre has now settled into its new home within the Courtyard and is stocked with maps, walking guides, and info on self-led trails (with a prize at the end!). Our staff are also there to help with Park queries and take your event bookings. Room has a selection of hot and cold rolls, toasties, homemade soup and sweet treats. If you’re visiting Caulders Garden Centre for your plants and garden needs, there is also a sit-down restaurant with a great selection of meals and drinks.

Even if you’re not taking part in one of our events, there’s still plenty to do at the Park - from a leisurely walk to Mugdock Castle and Loch to a stroll over Peitches Moor or having fun in the play park and on the adventure trail.

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If you want to treat someone, or just for yourself, then Mugdock Makkers is home to some beautiful one-of-a kind crafts, gifts and art from local artists. Our Visitor Centre also stocks gifts and children’s toys. We look forward to welcoming all our visitors over the next few months! Craigallian Road, Milngavie G62 8EL T: 0141 956 6100 E: mugdockoffice@eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk

Park Life | Business

Get Into Golf Membership at Buchanan Castle

The perfect way to try out golf!

Adults £150 | Juniors £75 Annual membership Includes: Access to 6 hole par 3 course Three 1 to 1 lessons with our PGA pro Golf equiment provided No special clothing required Join today! Email: membership@buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Flaming June at Portnellan Farm!

The recent holiday weekend for the Queens Jubilee was a busy one on the farm with many taking advantage of the beautiful weather to take to the water. Our speedboat tours have been particularly busy with a stop for coffee on Inchmurrin Island a popular choice. It was great to see the jubilee beacon on the island burning brightly as we lit our own on the farm!

ell summer finally seems to have arrived on the farm after what can only be described as a pretty dismal May. Luckily the calves seem to have coped well with the wind and rain, sheltering under trees and behind hedges (or their mothers of nothing else was available). With only a handful left to calve, thoughts on the farm turn towards making silage for the cows winter feed. As Portnellan is an organic farm we don’t spread any chemical fertilisers on the fields which generally means our grass is ready for cutting later than others. This does have advantages for wildlife but means an extra couple weeks of neurotic weather watching.

EXPLORE

LOCH LOMOND FROM THE WATER

No trip to Loch Lomond is complete without taking to the water. Discover the loch by luxury speedboat, kayak or paddle board from Portnellan Farm and enjoy spectacular Scottish scenery in every direction.

Contact Chris Scott-Park

Portnellan Farm, Gartocharn G83 8NL

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June is a particularly satisfying month in the garden as it’s when you can really start to see the fruits of Spring labour starting to pay off. It’s a little early to harvest much from our kitchen garden but it won’t be long now! The potatoes, peas and cabbage will all make a delicious accompaniment to our home grown beef, which is available to buy direct from the farm.

Stand Up Paddleboarding Kayaking Speedboat Tours

Mobile: 07749 040660 Email: chris@portnellanfarm.co.uk

PortnellanFarm

Park Life | Business

Tir na nOg Holistic Centre Gifts - Therapies - Beauty

Open 10-5 (closed Tuesdays) Balfunning, Balfron Station, G63 0NF www.tirnanog.co.uk 01360 449300

Soup dragon cafe

Hearty soups - great coffee - homebaking | 41 01360 440756 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life What’s on Guide RSPB SCOTLAND EVENTS Big Wild Summer at RSPB Loch Lomond

10am – 4pm, 7 days a week in July and August Throughout the holidays you can drop in and pick up an activity exploring pack at the Nature Hub and head out on an adventure. No booking required. £3.50 per pack.

July - August MAID OF THE LOCH

Chariots of Steam is an exhibition of model ships by Lachie Stewart at the Maid of the Loch at Balloch. Visitors will have the opportunity to climb on board the famous paddle steamer while she is on the slipway for essential repairs and see the exhibition in the ship’s main lounge.

Lachie Stewart is no ordinary man

Wildflower Wander at RSPB Loch Lomond

1pm – 3.30pm Saturday 6 August The meadows and woodlands of RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond have a stunning variety of wildflowers. In August these spaces are bursting with colour and it's the ideal time to take a closer look. Join a leisurely guided walk, where they will show you how to identify some wildflowers and tell you more about their historical uses. Booking required - rspb.org.uk/events/12204 £10.50 - £12.50

Weekday Wildlife Walks

Every Friday 10am – 12noon in July & August The mix of habitats found at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond make it an amazing place for wildlife. The woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands provide food and shelter for a diverse range of creatures. Visit this summer for a wildlife walk. These walks are aimed at those who would like an easy-going guided walk to find out about the RSPB’s work here and the wildlife it helps. They will be familyfriendly, and all abilities accommodated, with lots of spectacular wildlife to see along the way. Booking required rspb.org.uk/events/15347 £5.30 - £6.50 42 |

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Born in Vale of Leven, West Dunbartonshire, in 1943, his achievements include a glorious athletic career, which saw him win the gold medal in the 10,000 metres at the Commonwealth Games in 1970. Lachie has combined his lifelong passion for maritime history and model building to create a spectacular collection of ships which he has meticulously built over the last 60 years. This exceptional collection ranges from elegant paddle steamers to humble Clyde puffers. Many of the most famous ships launched on the Clyde are represented, including the Maid of the Loch. The exhibition is open Saturday’s and Sunday’s form 11 am – 4pm until November. £3 entry.

HIGHLAND GAMES

There are Highland Games and Gatherings taking place in or close to the Park Life area through the summer. July 2nd Luss Highland Gathering at Luss Village July 11th Loch Lomond Highland Games at Moss o’Balloch July 23rd Balquhidder, Lochearnhead & Strathyre Highland Games at Lochearnhead August 3rd Killin Highland Gathering August 7th Bridge of Allan Highland Games August 20th Stirling Highland Games

Park Life What’s on Guide

July - August LOCH LOMOND SHORES Summerfest 2nd & 3rd July

This new summer festival is a celebration of Loch Lomond Shores 20th birthday and will feature lots of family entertainment – including singing, dancing, kids rides and activities, bar area, stalls and much more.

PIPING ON THE SQUARE

A free event each Thursday night from 7.30-7.30pm on Drymen Square with a guest local pipe band playing an hour of much each week.

WALK IN THE PARK

Free to join local walks, running each week during July and August. New walkers will be made very welcome, it’s a chance to meet new people and enjoy the benefit of some exercise. More info from fran.crumley@lochlomond-trossachs.org Here are the schedule of walks and starting points: Monday: Aberfoyle, meet at Car Park (behind the Scottish Wool Centre) @ 10:20am Tuesday: Callander, meet at Ancaster Square (outside St. Kessog’s Church) @ 10:20am Wednesday: Balloch, meet at Grass area behind Balloch Tourist Info Centre @ 10:20am Thursday: Drymen & Croftamie, meet at Village Square (Winnock Hotel) @ 10:20am

Comic Con 30th & 31st July

For all comic enthusiasts, Comic Con has all things comic related with a huge array of stalls offering comics, gifts, toys and more. Always a great atmosphere, dress us as you favourite character and join in the fun!

Markets: 17th July & 7th & 21st August The Loch Lomond Shores Market will be on featuring its usual array of fresh produce, baking, gifts, homeware, street food and a great selection of locally produced artisan products – all with the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond.

NATIONAL WALLACE MONUMENT

Actor performances of Scotland’s National Hero every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday throughout July and August. More information at: nationalwallacemonument. com/events/

FESTIVALS & CONCERTS

CASHEL FOREST EVENTS Glow Worm Night Walk and Survey on Saturday 2 July from 8pm-2am

1st July, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bellahoustan Park, Glasgow 2nd July, Primal Scream at Queens Park, Glasgow 2nd July, Romeo & Juliet at Stirling Castle 2nd July, Calvin Harris, Hampden Park 5th July, Guns N’ Roses, Glasgow Green 8th-10th July, TRNSMT Festival, Glasgow Green 14th July, Doune The Rabbit Hole with headliners Amy MacDonald and Belle & Sebastion at Cardross Estate by Port of Menteith 12th August, Ocean Colour Scene at Barrowland Ballroom Glasgow 19th August, Texas at City Park Stage, Stirling www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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JULY

Wildlife Weans, Mugdock: Incredible Creepy Crawlies! Friday 1st July 10.30am – 11.30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Mugdock Sensational Safari: Craft Daft! Tuesday 5th July 1pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £12.

Wildlife Weans, Mugdock: Crafty Creatures!

Guided Walk - Dropstones and Gravestones Saturday 16th July 10am – 2:30pm A lovely level 6-mile linear walk from Lennoxtown to Strathblane, along the lee of the Campsie Fells. Pass through 3 rural graveyards where many stories will be unearthed. Cost £12.

Mugdock Sensational Safari: Evening Adventure Tuesday 19th July 7pm – 9pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £8.

Wildlife Weans, Mugdock: What do Owls Have for Dinner?

Friday 8th July 10.30am – 11.30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Friday 22nd July 10:30am – 11:30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Mugdock Sensational Safari: Wildlife Recording (Parts 1 and 2)

Mugdock Sensational Safari: Campfire Creations

Tuesday 12th July & Thursday 14th July 1pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Come along for part 1 on the Tuesday and carry out survey work including setting up a camera trap. Come back for part 2 on the Thursday to look at the results. Cost £20.

Wildlife Weans, Mugdock: Den Building Friday 15th July 10.30am – 11.30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

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Tuesday 26th July 1pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £12.

Mugdock’s History and Mysteries Thursday 28th July 1pm – 3.30pm Enjoy a Ranger led journey through time (no Tardis required!) From a 14th century castle and WWII gunsites to a 1950’s zoo! Cost £8.

Evening Guided Walk: Canal History and Wildlife Thursday 28th July 7pm – 9pm Forth and Clyde canal Ranger led family walk. Cost £8.

Park Life | Business

Wildlife Weans Mugdock: What’s in the Pond?

Friday 29th July 10:30am – 11:30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Forest School – A Log of Fun Sunday 31st July 2pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £8.

AUGUST

Go Batty at Mugdock

Friday 12th August 8:45pm – 9:45pm Search for perky pipistrelles and delightful Daubenton’s on this bat-tastic Ranger led evening walk. Cost £5.

Sensory Sunday – Forest School for Young Children. Sunday 14th August 11am – 12pm (3-5 year olds) 2pm-3pm (6-8 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Go Batty in Milngavie

Forest School – Orienteering for Young Beginners Tuesday 2nd August 2pm – 4pm Activity for 13-16 year olds. Cost £8.

Forest School – Discovering Campsie Glen Thursday 4th August 2pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £8.

Wildlife Weans Mugdock: Crafty Kids!

Monday 15th August 8:45pm – 9:45pm Search for perky pipistrelles and delightful Daubenton’s on this bat-tastic Ranger led evening walk. Cost £5.

Mugdock Superdog 2022

Sunday 21st August 2pm – 4pm Try out our crafty agility course and fun contests. All dogs welcome, but beginners only, please. Overflow car park near the Visitor Centre. Cost £5.

Friday 5th August 10:30am – 11:30am (1-5 year olds) 1pm – 2pm (6-7 year olds) Cost £4 per child. Parents must accompany their wee folk.

Forest School for Adults – Whittling for Beginners

Forest School – Whittling for Teenagers

Go Batty in Lennoxtown

Tuesday 9th August 2pm – 4pm Activity for 13-16 year olds. Cost £8.

Mugdock Sensational Safari: Marvellous Map Reading

Wednesday 10th August 1pm – 4pm For 8-12 year olds. Cost £12.

Tuesday 23rd August 6pm – 8pm Try your hand at the ancient art of whittling on this evening Ranger led session in the woods of Mugdock. Cost £8. Friday 26th August 8:30pm – 9:30pm Search for perky pipistrelles and delightful Daubenton’s on this bat-tastic Ranger led evening walk. Cost £5.

Guided Walk: The Canal and Kelvin, Bearsden Saturday 27th August 1pm – 4pm Cost £12.

Booking is essential for all the events, please call 0141 956 6100 or pop into the Park’s Visitor Centre.

Craigallian Road, Milngavie G62 8EL T: 0141 956 6100 | E: mugdockoffice@eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk | 45

Park Life | Business

Flexible working space, ideal for individual workers with safe distancing. An alternative workspace to home and office. Free parking, high speed broadband. Meeting room, ideal for confidential video calls. No contracts or commitments, book the space when you need it.

Above Fraser C Robb showroom, Stirling Road, Drymen, G63 0AA www.drymenhub.co.uk @DrymenBusinessHub

@DrymenBusiness

Are you starting, growing or just want to improve your business? Approachable, practical and pro-active accounting, tax and business service. Contact Stuart McDonagh FCA for a free initial consultation SYKAM & Co, Chartered Accountants, Balfron

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

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@DrymenBusiness Hub

Park Life | Business

Supporting businesses Supporting rural rural businesses for 40 years years for nearly nearly 40 Through Stirling,we weoffer offer ThroughBusiness Business Gateway Gateway Stirling, free business start-ups start-ups&& freesupport support & & advice advice to to business businesses to grow grow businesses looking to To speak to tosomeone, someone, Tobook bookan anappointment appointment or to speak pleasecontact contact one one of our advisers please advisersbelow: below: Bannockburn: Bannockburn: AlanPorteous Porteous Alan aporteous@stepscotland.co.uk aporteous@stepscotland.co.uk 01786468356 468356 01786

Strathard: Strathard: Linda Linda Letford Letford lletford@stepscotland.co.uk lletford@stepscotland.co.uk 01786 01786 468355 468355

Callander: Callander: Stephen Cranston Stephen Cranston scranston@stepscotland.co.uk scranston@stepscotland.co.uk 07810 438445 07810 438445

Drymen: Drymen: Simon Orr Simon Orr sorr@stepscotland.co.uk sorr@stepscotland.co.uk 07747 218735 07747 218735

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

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Park Life | Business

Do you require a house sitter or pet sitter? We love the outdoors and taking dogs for long walks!

Craic’n’Yarn is closing its doors at the end of August 2022. Opal and Regia 4ply sock yarn all £5 30% of RRP for West Yorkshire Spinners, Rowan and Books There will be other bargains, but please note – Jamiesons of Shetland, SFF, and other ‘special’ wools will not be reduced.

Thank you to all my supporters who have seen me through the last 7 Summers. Look out for Craic’n’Yarn designs in the magazines!

Fully d e Insur

Call Louise or Paul on

07817 622897

Pat x Craic’n’Yarn. 15a Main Street. Drymen G63 0BQ

Tel: 01360 661476

Open Wednesday to Friday 10am - 4pm

BUY ONE GET O FREE NE !

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G postcodes covered by Clydebank Branch 0141 941 1852 clydebank@apollo-blinds.co.uk *available on selected fabrics, promotions may change.

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WIN! Park Life | Business

MAGAZINE

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WIN a DBB stay for two at Karma Lake of Menteith! p28 To enter our competition visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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STELLAR ANTIQUES of STRATHBLANE

Park Life | Business

Are you looking for assistance to VALUE, SELL, or CONSIGN to AUCTION? I am a LOCAL DEALER in all things VINTAGE and ANTIQUE. Donald here from Stellar Antiques in Strathblane - I am local and have 10 years experience in buying, selling and valuing for clients - whether clearing a whole property for sale, or selling single items or collections.

Always Looking for Collections Small or Large vinyl records, CDs, books, and quality antiques! Selling at Finnieston Antiques Fair Glasgow on Saturday 18th June and Saturday 16th July with Vinyl Records and Vintage Clothing - Come Along and say Hello!

I specialise in VINYL RECORDS COLLECTIONS large or small, but also deal with Furniture, Jewellery, Paintings, Books, Stamps and Collectable Items. Recently I was delighted to sell the rare & iconic 1st Led Zeppelin “Turquoise” album on behalf of a local client - £3000+ as well as a high value collection of ANTIQUARIAN BOOKS which were consigned to a high end Scottish Auction. Nowadays valuables can be anything...old, new, vintage and everything in between! Feel free to contact me with any information you can provide along with one or more photographs, email, text, or WhatsApp are all good! Or, of course I am very happy to make a house call and talk to you, it’s always better to see items close up and advise on a wide range of values. I can advise on the best route to follow to sell your items, whether it’s direct or via Auction, or even your own private sale.

We are also happy to give VALUATIONS and CONSIGN to AUCTION on your behalf HOUSE CLEARANCES • HOUSE CALLS | www.parklifescotland.co.uk 50 Donald Call on 07771 501560 • donald@stellarantiques.co.uk • www.stellarantiques.co.uk

Park Life | Business

LE ITEMS L SA F ALil end % OF 10adv of August. FURTHEWitRh this unt d Vali ert.

Call Karen on 01389 721095 Commercial

Laundering Linen for: Hotels • B&B’s Restaurants • Health Clubs • Hairdressers

Domestic

Laundry & Dry Cleaning • Service Wash Ironing • Pet Beds

Colin Johnson Furnishings

Traditional Upholstery Service

Commercial & Domestic Work Undertaken Furniture Repair & Restoration

FOR SALE

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

WANTED AND FOR SALE

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

Time Served Uupholsterer & Furniture Restorer Enquiries Welcome

Units 8 & 9, North St Ind Est, North Street, Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire G83 0EA Public LAUNDRY Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am - 5pm. Friday - by appointment. Saturday - Sunday - Closed Collection & Delivery by arrangement. Laundry Services ONLY

www.thelaundrylady.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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FITNESS

Park Life | Business

Jane Meek - Body Control Pilates & Feldenkrais Online classes will continue into the Summer. Contact Jane for details of face-to-face Pilates classes in Blanefield and elsewhere, 07759 182236 or email janemmeek@gmail.com

Tall Trees - Lindas Body Control Pilates Linda is teaching via zoom. Contact for more details and updates - 07758 496820 email@talltreesaberfoyle.co.uk

Dancercise with Yasmin Low-impact daytime classes especially designed for Active Seniors/Beginners Mondays 10am - McLintock Hall, Balfron Tuesdays 10am - Buchlyvie Village Hall, Fridays 10am - Killearn Village Hall. Adult Dance Fitness -Energetic class for all ages and levels. Thursdays 7pm - KIllearn Village Hall. For more info and to book, please call or email Yasmin 07979856837 yasmin@throthegrapevine.co.uk

Zumba with Jane Everybody Welcome, Saturdays have returned to live classes at Village Club Strathblane 10am-11am(£6), Sunday 9.30am-10.30 virtual classes(£5) Just send an e mail via Facebook to get added to the groups and for updates. Tel 07968 968944

Shona Nicolson Zest Fitness Circuits Tues 12.15pm - 1pm , Kettlebell Classes Thurs 12.15pm - 1pm, Personal Training, STRONG Nation, Jogscotland Mums on the Run buggy fit group. Westerton Farm, Killearn, 07725 332893 info@zestfitnesstraining.co.uk www.zestfitnesstraining.co.uk

Dragon Spring Taiji & Qigong with Suzanne Lin Jensen. Classes at St Andrew’s Church Hall Milngavie & Bearsden Cross Church. Contact for more details and to book 07979 860754, susanne@dragonspringtaiji.co.uk

Aspiral One to one tailor made Gyrotonic sessions. Suitable for people from all walks of life regardless of age or physical ability. Contact 07500 213473, lorna.aspiral@gmail.com

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Groups • Children Corporate Groups Group & Fun Days

Bespoke Campsite available for booking

Take advantage of our equipment hire experience, we hire all equipment including Canoes!

Kinlochard, nr Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire FK8 3TL 01877 387750 0845 6437089 lo-call rate info@gocountry.co.uk Bookings Online Only www.gocountry.co.uk

WATER PARK WIPEOUT COURSE Age 12 and over only

Water Park • Kayaking • Fishing • Canoeing Archery • Clay Pigeon Shooting Stand Up Paddleboards • Canoe Cliff Jumping www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Himalayan Trekking Adventur called Pyramid, which monitors climate change. Initially funded by the Italian Government, Nepal's Government has since taken on to carry on the work, now subsidised by offering rooms for people to stay at the top of the world.

s if not busy enough running his businesses, including Endrick Property and Drymen Bakery & Deli, David Mackie is back from the High Passes trekking adventure in Nepal, including a visit to Base Camp at Mount Everest. This trek is the latest in a series of walks through some of the world's most scenic and unspoilt places. David was given the idea from a fellow walker whilst climbing Ben More by Crianlarich. To prepare for the trip, David carried ever-increasing weights in a backpack. He found that

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moving from 6kg to 8kg and then 20kg was more effective than gym work. However, despite the preparation, nothing can prepare you for walks at altitude, with the body having to function on 45% less oxygen. The first daunting part of the journey was the landing at Lukla Airport in the Himalayas, described as the most dangerous airport in the world due to its short and angled runway. David was fluid about his plans, happy to trek to locations recommended by people he met in the mountains. One such location was a weather station

As Base Camp was only a 10 hour round trip from the Pyramid, David and his Nepalese friend, Tanka, headed there in search of some rocks and a wander through the ice pinnacles. On arrival, they

re for David Mackie of Drymen are held. With one young Monk offering to play badmington In addition, David encouraged people he met to walk the West Highland Way and often wore some of the branded clothing for the trek that his shop in Drymen sells to walkers.

unusually had the place to themselves for photographs, which included David wearing a kilt and Drymen T-Shirt! David loved the adventure, with the only dislike being crossing three glaciers, not helped by creaking noises making the crossing quite tense. These adventures aren't for the fainthearted, and at one point, a glacial ridge they'd just walked across crumbled into nothing. Along the way, David met lots of interesting and genuine people. Some monks even blessed him at the 500-year- old Upper Pangboche Monastery, where a Yeti hand and skull

A sign of a good holiday is the planning for the next one. So, what's next for David? At the top of his list are the Forbidden Kingdom in Nepal and Mount Damavand in Iran, the highest volcano in Asia Fancy going? A selection of David's amazing photographs of this trip will undoubtedly tempt you.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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2022 GARTNESS

BEER FESTIVAL ** SAVE THE DATE **

Saturday 27th August * 10 th ANNIVERSARY * more info soon at

www.gartnessbeerfestival.co.uk ALL IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL CHARITIES

fully accessible event

56 |

rious

Wine

FESTI

2022

10 th anniversary

iders

N T R A ES

Real Ale s,

t Beers, La f a g Cr

s, C er

10 th anniversary

i G &

e: murraygwatt@yahoo.co.uk t: 07799 778086 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

1-TO-1 ELECTRIC BIKE ADVICE What is an electric bike? Why would you choose an e-bike? How has e-bike technology improved over recent years? What is the best type of e-bike for me? If the above questions sound familiar then we have just the answer! Our in-house e-bike specialists are available to offer guidance for the best suited bikes for commuting, leisure and town riding.

www.country-cycles.com info@country-cycles.com 01360 550 372 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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lomond trail: access all areas! W

e are delighted to announce the construction phase of the wildlife trail to Loch Lomond project is complete. The appropriately named ‘Lomond Trail’ is now open and welcoming visitors to experience the stunning habitats and nature found at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond.

The route adds 1.3 kilometres of accessible trail; connecting our existing visitor hub, car park and Airey Woodland Trail to our Shore Wood Path, which runs along the loch shore and has stunning views across the loch, with Ben Lomond and Conic Hill forming the backdrop. The boardwalk section of the trail creates an immersive experience for visitors to walk through our Fen habitat, before leading on into Ring Wood an ancient oak plantation rich in wildlife. Prior to this, the existing trails were disconnected and navigating across the wetland reserve was limited to the most intrepid visitors and staff or involved leaving the reserve by vehicle to pick up the Shore Wood Path through several private roads, near the village of Gartocharn. The project has been 5 years in development and planning, with construction finally starting in January this year. It has been made possible through £350 000 of funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, Brown Forbes Memorial Fund, the Horace and Helen Gillman Trusts, along with the RSPB. To add to the visitor experience, viewing areas and interpretation are being installed, where people can watch and learn about local wildlife. As well as providing better access across the reserve, we aim to open-up activities to a wider, more diverse audience. We are delivering this

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through a programme of community outreach, working in partnership with organisations and schools across West Dunbartonshire. Funding enabled the employment of a Community Outreach Officer as well as a Nature and Communities Reserves Assistant through the DWP government funded Kickstart scheme. Together they are delivering the Outreach activities with groups such as: Green Routes – who provide education and training for young adults with support needs who are disadvantaged in the labour market. Choices School – who support pupils out-with mainstream education. Tullochan – who work with schools and young people in West Dunbartonshire to change their lives for the better, including work placements for young adults. CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland) – who care for young people with life-shortening conditions, their siblings, families, and carers. Other groups we are working with include Vale of Leven Academy and our local primary school, Gartocharn Primary who have earned themselves the title of ‘Goose Guardians’ through their work with RSPB Loch Lomond. The tailored programme of activities will help these audiences to engage with nature, learn new skills, gain confidence, and improve their physical and mental wellbeing. It is hoped that the opening of Lomond Trail provides increased access to all, acting as a valuable asset to the local and wider community and enabling more people to have more connections with the spectacular nature found here.

Park Life | Business

Key

Water Grassland Woodland Fen Mire Silt Car park Viewpoint Nature Hub Picnic bench Pond Shore Wood Path Through field Airey Woodland Trail Viewpoint trail Lomond trail

N E

Ring Point

This site is an important place for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Please note there is no way to cross the River Endrick to reach Drymen and Balmaha. Litter can be dangerous to wildlife – please take it away with you. Angling is not permitted here. There are cows and calves grazing in many of the areas of the site. During the breeding season (1 April to 15 August) we ask that people avoid taking their dogs to some areas of the site as it disturbs ground-nesting birds. Please leave gates as you find them.

Net Bay viewpoint

Loch Lomond

Endrick viewpoint

Shore wood

Twenty Acres

Limehill

Wards Ponds

Snipe Flats

Ring Wood

Aber Bog Fen viewpoint

Old Schoolhouse Field

Lagganbeg Caravan Park Gaels View

Orchid Field

YOU ARE HERE

Slatehouse Fields

250 m

500 m

Kilmaronock Millennium Hall

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 59

Park Life | Business

Delivered and Han 28,000 Hom

Dropped to ov

Bearsden & Milngavie

Your wh at’ Loch Lom s on guide and adver ond, The Trossachs tiser for , Bearsd en &

Milngavi

Your wh at’ Loch Lom s on guide and adver ond, The Trossachs tiser for , Bearsd en & JUL-AUG

Bringing your local Drymen • community Killearn • together Balfron • Thornhill covering: Balmaha • Ruskie • Rowardenn Bearsden • Miln • Port of Menteith gavie • • Callander an • Gartocharn Strathblan • Fintry • • Kilmahog e • Blane Buchlyvie • Brig O field • Croft • Arnp Turk • Aber foyle • Kinlo rior • Kippen • Garg amie unnock chard • Ballo ch • Gartm ore

60 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

2020

Milngavi

SEPT-OC

Your wh at’ Loch Lom s on guide and adver ond, The Trossachs tiser for , Bearsd en & Mil T 2020

ngavie

Your wh at’ Loch Lom s on guide and adve ond, The Trossachs ,B NOV-DEC

2020

Bringing your local community Drymen • together Killearn • covering: Balfron • Thor nhill Balmaha Bearsden • Ruskie • • Rowarden • Mil Port of Ment nan • Garto eith • Calla charn • Fin nder • Kilma hog • Brig O Tu

Park Life | Business

Park Life Magazine

Sept - Oct 2022 edition

e and advertiser for Your what’s on guid & Milngavie Trossachs, Bearsden Loch Lomond, The

The next edition of Park Life Magazine will cover Sept - Oct 2022. Deadline for copy is the 12th of August. If you wish to advertise please contact Lisa 07792 066706

lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk

d by Royal Mail nd delivered to mes & Businesses

ver 400 pick up points

ertiser for Bearsden &

SEPT/OCT 22

coming soon!

Milngavi

lngavie • Strathblan e • Blane ntry • Buch field • Croft lyvie • Arnp amie rior • Kipp urk • Aber en • foyle • Kinlo chard • Ballo Gargunnock ch • Gartm ore

Events & Articles please contact myself ld • Croftamie • Strathblane • Blanefie Bearsden • Milngavie Kippen • Gargunnock ity together covering: Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Bringing your local commun • Gartocharn • Fintry • • Gartmore • Kinlochard • Balloch • Balmaha • Rowardennan Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • g Drymen • Killearn • Balfron Kilmaho • er of Menteith • Calland Thornhill • Ruskie • Port

MAR/AP

R 21

Tel: 07791 976910

Your wh at’ Loch Lom s on guide and adver ond, The Trossachs tiser for , Bearsd en & Mil

ngavie

Katrina@parklifescotand.co.uk

ngavie

MAY/JUN

Bringing your local community Drymen • together Killearn • covering: Balfron • Thor nhill Balmaha Bearsden • Ruskie • • Rowarden • Milngavi Port of Ment nan • Garto e • Strat eith • Calla charn • Fintr hblane • nder • Kilma y • Buchlyvie Blanefield hog • Brig • Croftamie • Arnprior O Turk • Aber • Kippen foyle • Kinlo • chard • Ballo Gargunnock ch • Gartm ore

NOV-DEC

2021

E 21

Bringing your local Drymen • community Killearn • together Balfron • Thornhill cove Balmaha • Ruskie • Rowardenn ring: Bearsden • • Port of Menteith Milngavie • Callander an • Gartocharn • Strathblan • Fintry • • Kilmahog e • Blane Buchlyvie • Brig O field • Croft • Arnp Turk • Aber foyle • Kinlo rior • Kippen • Garg amie unnock chard • Ballo ch • Gartm ore

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Andrew Anderson & Sons Funeral Directors Est.1969

“Stand Sure we will look after you & your family”

We are proud to offer a 24 hour caring and professional service to the local community. CALLANDER, Funeral Home, Glenartney Road, Callander, FK17 8EB, Tel: 01877 330398 BALFRON, 64B Buchanan Street, Balfron, Glasgow, G63 0TW, Tel: 01360 441023 STIRLING, 90 Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RN, Tel: 01786 237480

Email: info@andersonfunerals.co.uk • www.andersonfunerals.co.uk

62 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

ALPHA

LAUNDRY + LINEN HIRE SINCE 2004

DELIVERIES THROUGHOUT THE NATIONAL PARK QUALITY ASSURED

PERSONAL SERVICE

WE PARTNER WITH COMMERCIAL + INDUSTRIAL CLIENTS - LODGE PARKS, HOTELS, B&B’s, AIRBNB’s, GUEST HOUSES

TEL: 0330 332 6161 WWW.ALPHALAUNDRYSERVICES.COM EMAIL: INFO@ALPHALAUNDRYSERVICES.COM

Friendly, family run business

Bring the exterior of your property back to life!

Spray Cleaning Service No need to retile! • • • • • • • •

Non-invasive No power washing involved Kills and removes mould & algae Continues to clean in the weeks following treatment Great results! Can restore a roof’s original colour Helps prevent regrowth Free gutter cleaning service included Testimonials available on request

BEFORE

AFTER

Free no obligation quotation Tiled roofs only. Works carried out subject to survey

Tel: 07538 067772 | Email: headroofcleaning@yahoo.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 63

Park Life | Business

DOORS STARTING AT

£652

(+vat)

FREE FITTING

POWER YOUR EXISTING GARAGE DOOR from as little as

ON ALL NEW GARAGE DOORS

£350(+vat)

• Garage Doors • Spares Remote Control Openers Installation Repairs

Our • Services •

T: 0141 950 1423 | T: 01505 800 100 | W: powerdoors.co.uk

EST 1996

Cont us now act for a

FREE QUO

TATIO N

WE ARE CELEBRATING OUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY

WIN! MAGAZINE

Don’t forget to enter our fabulous COMPETITION!

WIN a DBB stay for two at Karma Lake of Menteith! p28 To enter our competition visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

John Coubrough & SON FUNERAL DIRECTORS Est. 1961

Grant Coubrough, with over 35 years of experience can be depended upon to provide a professional, caring and dignified service in your time of loss. All funeral packages, including floral tributes, catering needs and memorial stones can be taken care of.

24 Hour Service “TULMORE”, 27 Castlehill Loan, Kippen FK8 3DZ. TEL: 01786 870737 • 07702 490285 64 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Aberfoyle Satellite Company Incorporating Flight Aerials

Aerial & Satellite Installation & Repair Service Your local Satellite Company No Job Too Big or small Find us on Facebook

Joe Kennedy FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE

Keep it local!

Mob: 0787 590 6767

Email: jodieaberfoylesatellite@gmail.com

DRYMEN TILING Professional Tiling Services All Aspects of Wall & Floor Tiling Ceramic, Porcelain & All Natural Stone Repairs & Regrouting

Tel: 07810 194226

drymentiling@btinternet.com www.facebook.com/drymentiling

Need it Done Right?

DUNRITE PLUMBING Pride in Workmanship

Minor repairs to complete installation

Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens No call out charge FREE Estimates Fully Insured

T: 01360 550799 M: 07772944521 E: dunrite.plumbing3@gmail.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Buchlyvie Electrical

All Electrical Work Undertaken

Electric Radiators Supplied & Fitted. New Scottish legislation fire alarms supplied & fitted.

Email: buchlyvieelectrical2000@aol.com

T: 07826 628320

STEWART HOLLINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Established Since 1983

CONTRACTORS ROOFING AND BUILDING SERVICES

Family business established for 20 years All aspects of rooﬁng work carried out

SANDSTONE REPAIR & RESTORATION EPDM ROOFING SYSTEM (FOR FLAT ROOFS) ROUGHCASTING GUTTERS

S L AT I N G

A L L J O I N E RY W O R K

Proprietor Gavin McGregor

view our work at:

w w w. r m c o n t r a c t o r s r o o f i n g s e r v i c e s . c o m

Tel:

t: 01877 385231 m: 07885 841735

Keeping you... SAFE!

For ALL your locksmith services • Trusted Local Locksmith, fully DBS Police Checked. • All types of locks replaced. • Emergency call out, entry gained. • Locks upgraded to insurance standards.

Call Bill: 07377 632 703

Email: bewing@lockforce.co.uk www.lockforce.co.uk 66 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

01389 605352

Mob: 07519 267764

P-N TILING All aspects of tiling work

✓ OUTDOOR STEPS ✓ PATIOS ✓ BATHROOMS ✓ KITCHENS ✓ CERAMIC ✓ MOSAIC

Contact Paul on:

07930 942 443 25 Years Experience

All types of painting& decorating work undertaken blainpainters@outlook.com www.blainpainters.com 07876 025219 / 01360 850441 43 Main Street, Buchlyvie FK8 3LR

homeworx

Park Life | Business

property maintenance and repairs

painting and decorating (interior and exterior) ceramic tiling hardwood and laminate floor fitting joinery plastering all work considered

for a free quote, call 01360 550542 or 07870 329349

Archibald Billett

F U N E R A L D I R E C T O R S Expertise & experience to ensure you give your loved one the perfect send off. Archibald Billett Funeral Directors provide both traditional burial and cremation packages to suit all. We can arrange memorials and Floral Tributes on request.

Independent Funeral Director

Established Since 1955

Tel: 07718 759908 | Tel: 01877 382829 | Gualann, Gartmore, Stirling FK8 3RP | Email: a.billett@hotmail.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Update your website… Affordable website design, with the option for e-commerce. Local clients include: Arcadia Glamping

Loch Lomond Hideaways

Arngomery Cottages

Maid of the Loch

Buchanan Castle Events

Oak Tree Inn

But and Ben, Croftamie

Park Life Magazine

Clachan Inn Drymen

Save Our Steamship Appeal

Drymen Business Hub Drymen Community Website

See Loch Lomond Trossachs Collection

Falkirk Distillery

Trossachs Trail

James D Bilsland

Visit Callander

Loch Lomond Coffee Co.

West Highland Way

Marketing | Video | Photography | Websites Brand Design | Media & PR t: 01360 661029

www.paulsaundersmarketing.co.uk 68 |

@paulsaundersmarketing www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

call us today:

01360 770708 07968 831313

Time served quality tradesmen Established in 2002

Services: • Re-roofing • Slating & Tiling • Soffit & Fascia

• Guttering Services • Velux Windows • Chimney Work

• Insurance & General • Roughcasting & Leadwork

We are a family business providing a range of services throughout Glasgow and the surrounding areas in Stirlingshire. All our quotations are free of charge and carry no obligation.

www.gs-roofing.co.uk • info@gs-roofing.co.uk 23 Kirkland Avenue, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9BY

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 69

Park Life | Index

Accounting, Business & Legal

John Coubrough Funeral Directors 64

Laundry Services

Baxter Accounting

Gardening & Outdoors

Alpha Laundry

Drymen Business Hub

Benview Garden Centre 24

The Laundry Lady

Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 46

Craig Tree Services

Activies, Entertainment & Kids

Logs & Fuels

Cruachan Landscaping 15

Buchanan Castle Golf club

Country Cycles Killearn

Edenmill Farm

Go Country

Loch Katrine Cruises

Mugdock Country Park 38 Portnellan Farm

Care Home Boclair Care Home

34 & 35

Car Hire JGM Executive Travel

Clothing & Gifts Craic n yarn

Dugie Clark Clachan Mhor 15 Fraser Robb

Glasgow Arborists

Haggerty Plant and Landscaping 22 John Currie Brick and Stonework 17 Loch Ard Land Services 16 Lomond Stump Removal 13

Wood for Fuel/ Percy Ltd 7 Painters & Decorators Blain Painters 67 Strathendrick Decorators 49 Pet Services Pet/House Sitter

Struthers & Scott

Lorimer Tree & Landscape 16

Photography/Media & Graphics

Macintosh Fencing

Paul Saunders Media & Photography 68

Paterson Garden Buildings Ltd 14

Skep Design

S.Marshall Gardening Services 14

Property

Scotia Contracts Ltd

Rettie

Sorbus Tree Service

Trades & Services

Buchlyvie Electrical

T D Trees

Aberfoyle Satellite Company 65

Stewart Hollington

Tradstocks

Adrian Pirie

Electrical

Food Drink & Accommodation But and ben

Health & Wellbeing 33

Callander Drinks Company (Hardwater Ltd) 30 Cameron House Hotel

House for an Art Lover 31 Karma Lake of Menteith

28 & 29

Tir Na Nog

Bathroom Transformations 9 41

Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds Cloudy2Clear

48 9

Colin Johnson Traditional Upholstery 51

Drymen Tiling

Dunrite Plumbing

GS Roofing Ltd

Head Roof Cleaning

Homeworx Killearn

Edge of the wood

Town & Country Designs Coffee Shop 30

J Walker Interiors

Perch

Panik Gallery

LockForce

Funeral Services

Stellar Antiques 50

PN Tiling

Andrew Anderson & Sons 62

Trend Transformatiions 5

Power Doors

Archibald Billet

Two Ravens Forge

RM Contractors

The Oak Tree Inn

70 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

2 27

John Gardner Mobile Engineers 17

Park Life | Business

creative design solutions Branding • Marketing • Advertising Magazine Design • Promotional Material

We deliver creative solutions, for large organisations, the established small to medium business and the new start-up. So if you’re looking for a logo for your new business venture, business cards, letterheads etc, or promotional material such as, flyers, brochures, banner stands,

ALLSPICE

Robert Bankier 0141 255 0145 • info@bankier.co.uk www.bankierblinds.co.uk

or advertising for any publication or social media, then get in touch today.

skep* design

To find out how we can help your business call 07817 312062 or email simon.jones@skepdesign.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

I already know the person who’s going to buy your home. We have over 23,000 people registered and looking to buy a property, allow me to handpick the right buyer for you.

Our experienced sales teams have a proven track record of achieving the best possible outcome for their clients. They pride themselves on their local knowledge, connections and provide a personal and bespoke service to property owners across Scotland and the North of England.

72 |

Park Life July/August 2022

Articles inside

Fitness��

Gardening Tips��

Park Life July/August 2022

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