Park Life Magazine - Jul/Aug 2020 by Park Life Scotland

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

JUL-AUG 2020

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

Park Life | Business

Look out for our opening date on Facebook!

Groups • Children Corporate Groups Group & Fun Days Take advantage of our equipment hire experience, we hire all equipment including Canoe and Bike Hire! Kinlochard, nr Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire FK8 3TL 01877 387750 0845 6437089 lo-call rate info@gocountry.co.uk www.gocountry.co.uk

Water Park • Kayaking • Hamster Ball • Fishing • Clay Pigeon Shooting • Archery • Mountain Biking • Gorge Walking • Climbing & Abseiling | 2Canoeing www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

New Drive Thru Open Now at Carbeth on Stockiemuir Road

First independent speciality drive thru coffee shop. Selection of hot and cold drinks, food and ice cream.

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Contents Front cover photograph by Chris Cunningham @shutterglen "Taking my time to find the perfect photo is my way of finding peace of mind. The chance to walk and sit in nature is more beneficial to than just physical fitness. The benefits to my mental health are incredible and way better than any medication I've tried." Chris Cunningham

JULY - AUGUST 2020 EDITION

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

Welcome ��6 & 7 JUL-AUG 2020

Competition ��12 & 13 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

Drymen Show �� 14 Business Gateway �� 20 Mental Health and me Chris Cunningham ��22 & 23 Island Hopping ��28 & 29 Thursday Night Entertainment �� 32

Drymen Show

Local Food Group �� 35 Local after Lockdown �� 36 It’s ok not to be ok ��41 & 42 Thank you to the The Beech Tree �� 46

Island Hopping

28&29

Drymen Community ��44 & 45 Drymen Church �� 47 Fitness �� 49 Thank you to the Fintry Team �� 50 Index �� 68

Katy Speirs

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Rachel Speirs LIVE �� 70

Park Life | Business

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Welcome In This Edition...

Welcome to the New Normal!

elcome to the latest issue of Parklife. I hope you are well and coping with the trials of the last few months. The eagleeyed will have noticed that this Parklife is dated July-August. We shut up shop after our April-May edition went to print during lockdown, as did many of our advertisers, but decided that missing a twomonth window was too much. We had to adapt, like so many, so we have rescheduled our publishing year, and we are emphasising our community involvement more through our Facebook presence. The reschedule will have an advantage later in the year when Christmas and Easter are aligned with our Christmas and Easter editions! So, is this the ‘new normal’? COVID-19 is not over, but life is slowly beginning to resemble something we are all more comfortable with. Lockdown was a bit of a shock to most of us, when the convenient freedoms of modern life were mostly taken away. And now they are mostly back. We are still restricted, and there are business sectors struggling with the remaining restrictions, but mostly we can achieve what we need and want to with a bit of

ingenuity from time to time. So is the new normal like the old normal, but with a pause for thought before action? There is an opportunity to retune what we do together, since we have now learned so much about what we can do to help each other. Lockdown exacerbated existing difficulties that some people have with mental health issues, and introduced these issues to large numbers of people who had never encountered them before. The mental health impact of the last weeks has shone a light onto a subject which is often misunderstood, and just as often under-prioritised as a health issue. On pages 22 and 40 we feature articles on mental health subjects, with contact information for those who need help and advice, whether as a sufferer or friend. Can changing attitudes to mental health result in better outcomes? Community has featured prominently in the way we all coped with COVID-19, and keeping contact with friends, relatives and neighbours was key. Technology played a large part, and if you are an avid news watcher, you might be forgiven for thinking it was the only way. Don’t forget that

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JULY - AUGUST 2020 EDITION

there are plenty of people out there who are not tech-savvy, or donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the latest gadgets, and it is good to hear stories of contact maintained and help offered through simpler methods like the telephone and face to (socially distant) face! In the next couple of issues, as we ease ourselves away from the difficulties of COVID-19, we would like to feature some of the positives that adversity and necessity have brought out in us. Once again, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for your input, short anecdotes, captioned pictures, handy tips etc, well, anything really that will help create that warm feeling that we all need just now. And specifically, we are going to maintain a village by village-based support group contact page, so get us up to date on your activities. Lastly, our local focus has shown its worth for all of us, as many local businesses have turned their businesses into de-facto community service hubs to keep us all going. Turn to page 46 and read about how they could do with local support in getting back on their feet too.

Next Edition

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

Now we turn the page on a new chapter, and a new normal. Better than the old normal! Katrina, Lisa & Simon The Park Life Team

Katrina - Director Lisa - Sales Director

isa L a n & i r t a K T: 07791 976910 E: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk Keep up to date - Follow us on Facebook

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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competition time! Fraser C Robb and Park Life Magazine have teamed up for a summer garden photography competition.

MAGAZINE

e are giving you the chance to win a brandnew lawnmower from Fraser C Robb worth £150. The competition is simple, take a photograph in your garden during July 2020 and send it to katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk by 30/07/20. At the start of the August we will pick a winner and award the prize. As we’ve been spending more time at home recently this is the chance to take your camera, or phone out into the garden and capture a winning photograph. As long as the photograph is taken this July in your garden then the subject is completely up to you, people, pets, flowers, wildlife, sunsets – whatever you want - get creative and enjoy!

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Win a new Lawnmower worth

£150!

from Fraser C Robb

Here are the rules. 1. Entries only accepted by email. 2. Maximum of 10 entries per household. 3. Limit email size to 10mb (send in multiple emails if required). 4. Eligible photographs MUST be taken during July 2020 only. 5. Deadline for entries is 31/07/2020. 6. The judges’ decision is final. 7. Each photograph entered can be freely used by Park Life Magazine on-line, in social media and in the magazine. 8. The winner can either take the lawnmower prize or use value of £150 towards another purchase at Fraser C Robb.

Tips from Park Life’s photographer Paul Saunders •

It doesn’t matter if your garden is large or small. I guarantee that everyone will have a photograph opportunity. Be creative and look carefully for interesting subjects and compositions.

• Go close or go wide. Decide whether to fill the frame with a flower petal or take in a full shot of the garden. • Work with different light, try taking photographs in the first or last hour of sunlight of the day for some beautiful light. • Use the weather for drama - maybe a rainbow, some blue skies or dark clouds. • Use people and/or props to tell a story or capture some action fun on a trampoline, or a beautiful portrait. • Finally keep practicing, be bold and creative. There are so many more photo opportunities in your garden than you may think! Good luck.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Drymen Show's "A Post A Day In May"

ike so many other events planned this spring Drymen Show couldn't take place. However, by way of continuing to engage their 4.5K Facebook Followers they created "A Post A Day In May". This saw a new post on their Facebook page each day throughout May, profiling the many people who help Drymen Show take place each year as well as various Trade and Craft Stands who missed out promoting their products and services at the show itself. It was a great success and shed a light on why Drymen Show plays such an important part in so many people's lives. It also gave us a few laughs hearing about the antics of some of the committee; everything from blue hens to toilet decorations. However, more importantly it's allowed us to take note of some of the history of the show and the people who played an important part in the Society. If you'd like to see more please go to our Facebook Page Drymen Show. While the show couldn't take place the committee are still hopeful they can host an evening planned for November 6th in Killearn Village Hall with Gunna Sound Ceilidh Band and to welcome everyone back next year on Saturday May 29th.

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Park Life | Business

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E: hello@reillysons.com| 15 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Painting for the NHS

he NHS has rightly been a major focus of everyone’s praise and support for the last few months. Some people have taken that a step further, and come up with ideas to provide financial support too. Claudia Duncan is one of those people, and she has combined her artistic passion and her business with a desire to contribute something concrete. She has been painting for the NHS. Her idea seems simple enough. Paint pictures, sell or auction them, give the proceeds to NHS Charities Together.

Claudia explains, “I am still busy painting, but I’ve passed my goal of £2000 for donations. Up till now 100% of the painting sales went to the charities, and since I’ve exceeded my target, I’ve decided to continue at a lower percentage.” In fact, as this goes to press, Claudia’s total now exceeds £2500. Some of the current work-inprogress is due to be completed soon, and will appear on her website www. claudiaduncan.me by the time you read this. So pop in to the website, have a look, and if something catches your

eye you can buy it and push the total up further. Claudia has lived in Balfron since 2006, and her business, art4you Scotland, is based in Killearn. Together with her husband Ewen, she runs art4you Scotland as an art school, art community, artist supplies shop, kids art school, and, well the list is too long - have a look at www.art4youscotland.co.uk. Claudia says, “I paint to inspire, to feel good and to enjoy the experience”. And to support the NHS.

Expert Mortgage Advice at your convenience! Carolyn Dunion from McKendry Dunion Financial provides a personal service to those looking to get on the property ladder or review their mortgage arrangements. Carolyn says, ‘it is amazing that our mortgage is usually the biggest expense we will have in our lives and yet often we forget to review our arrangements and that can cost us thousands of pounds unnecessarily. Similarly, many would be first time buyers can be scared off by the overwhelming amount of information surrounding mortgages’. McKendry Dunion look to help clients get the best solution for their circumstances. They aim to be approachable and as they offer evening appointments they can help at a time that suits you. Based in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs area they can offer help to clients throughout Scotland.

To have an informal no obligation chat to see if they can help you contact Carolyn on 07957252223 or carolyn@mckendrydunion.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

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

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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Business help & support during Covid

as your business been trading for over 6 months, has definite growth potential but you don’t have time to manage or innovate? Has COVID created issues that you weren’t ready for and could stop your growth? Or maybe the current circumstances have seen your revenues and customers increasing, but with many new opportunities, come so many issues!

Specialists can help you with:

If you answered yes to any of these then we can help!

• Staff Re-training and development.

Thanks to ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) Funding Business Gateway Stirling can fully fund a specialist consultant to work with you on a 1-2-1 basis for up to three days. Priority is given to ERDF sectors in Tourism, Food & Drink, to support businesses to stay in business and Human Resource topics.

• Help with new wage-setting, changing contracts, terms and conditions • Advice on recruitment and staffing. • Help developing alternative revenue streams and reaching new markets. • Preparing the workplace and assisting with adapting to be ready for employees returning. • Ensuring procedures are in place for working from home. • Support and assistance for managers leading scattered and remote workforces. • Strategic staff planning and advice on organisational change. This is not an exhaustive list, the support is to help the businesses survive the current climate, and be resilient in the future. If you would like to find out more about how you can access this fully funded support get in touch on Stirling@bgateway.com or call us on 01786 498 496.

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

• Open all year - 7 days a week

• Safe and enclosed, off lead dog exercise area

• Providing personal and caring service

• All dogs individually walked twice a day in scenic woodland

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• Fully insured boarding with 24hr vet cover • Doggy day boarders and long stays welcome • Purpose built, underfloor heated kennels • Additional bath and blow dry service available on request • Peaceful cattery with thermostatically controlled heating

We are still open and here if you need us for when you return to work, if you get sick or need to go on an essential trip. Stay safe and give your pets a hug from us.

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Park Life | Business

Mental Health

he term mental health is one that can conjure up all sorts of images in someone’s head. Not all of them good. The stigma of mental health is diminishing as people are beginning to understand that it can and does affect every person in the world in some way.

If your arm or leg gets broken, then in a lot of cases its an easy fix. Trip to A&E, X-ray, plaster room, six weeks of itching various bits with a knitting needle, plaster off then physio. Before long you are back at whatever you were doing before, simple. That’s physical health and we’re all good at that. We all have stories about plaster casts and that time when we fell off our bike, out our tree or the unseen trip hazard that the beer/wine goggles couldn’t see. When these thing happen, they can tend to leave their mark. That leg doesn’t go that way anymore, you have to put your right arm into your jacket first because the left shoulder will bend further back. It’s a pest and a pain but you live with it and most people wouldn’t know from looking at you that you were struggling. Mental health is a bit more difficult to deal with. If you have a mental health issue no matter what it is, it is impossible to see. The only way that a chemical imbalance or physical abnormality in someone’s brain can be detected or even noticed is in that person’s behavior. Much the same way if someone is limping you can assume, they have an injury there somewhere. Mental health issues are devious, they hide, they hide from friends, they hide from family, they hide from the very person that’s carrying them. Understanding that I was struggling with a mental health issue was like someone switching on a light in my head. I was for years confused, angry and hurt that that everyone else seemed to breeze

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

through life without a care in the world, while I felt I was wading through syrup every day. I had become a master of hiding how I was feeling and putting on a face. I would forced myself into social get togethers and parties that I would have done anything to avoid. I would find that thing that made people laugh and just hide behind their laughter. I hated it, before I went anywhere I would sit and sweat trying to find a way out of it. I would come back from places exhausted and drained from my ‘performance’. In the Autumn of 2018, I had hit rock bottom and was in a very dark place. The years of unhappiness had taken their toll. I could only see darkness at the end of the light, I had allowed my anxiety and my depression to overwhelm me. Something had to change. I spoke to my doctor and within minutes he said, ‘You’re depressed and it’s because of your anxiety and you’re anxious because you’re depressed’. I was prescribed medication there and then. Within a few weeks my mood stabilized and that time allowed me to take stock. Those weeks and that time was critical for me. I had to understand that I wasn’t alone in this. I say I allowed this to overwhelm me because I didn’t know there were options and I didn’t know there was help for guys like me. I made a video and stuck it on YouTube and Facebook. I wanted to get my story out there and record how it felt to be me at that time. The response was incredible. I didn’t know that there were so many of you out

Park Life | Business

and me By Chris Cunningham

there, people just like me that find it hard to keep going. The most surprising thing for me was that the very people I had assumed were living an amazing life were really struggling too. People from all over the world contacted me directly to tell me their story, their history, give me their thanks for telling my story and in some cases share with me their pain of losing someone. There was mums and dads, children and grandparents all sharing their issues. There were people from public life and high-profile sportsmen that got in touch. There was even a New Zealand biker gang that got in touch to tell me they had played my video at their rally. My point is that we just don’t know what’s happening in someone’s head and we don’t know what that person has to deal with every day. Look for the signs, look for the quiet ones, look for the clown with a tear in their eye, look for the one that’s got it all, we’re out there hiding in plain sight. If you think that you may be suffering from a mental health issue, talk to someone. If you think that someone you know may be suffering from a mental health issue, listen to them. It’s good to talk and it’s ok not to be ok.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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Park Life | Business

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At Countr y Cycl e s we offer a wide range of repa i rs fo r yo ur b ic ycl e w ith attention to detail ou r u t m o st p r io r it y. Al l repa irs are booked in for a s p ecif ic d ay an d regu la r updates on the progress a re g ive n to co o rd inate a collec tion time.

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Periodic ser vicing is c ri ti c al for th e l on g te rm per forma nce a nd sa fe t y of you r bi ke. We c an under ta ke small tune u ps to f u l l ove rh au l ser vices of which we are prou d to of fe r suspension ser vicing i n -h ou s e.

We are p ro ud to offer elec tric bike hire from o u r sto re in Kil le arn. With a va riet y of models availab l e we h ave something to suit all a bilitie s a n d st y l e s. It ’s an excellent way to explore the l o c al are a an d tr y ou t a n ebike! Contac t u s for d etail s o n b o o king.

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Island hopp By Paul Saunders

ast summer I was on a mission to visit or get up-close to all of Loch Lomond’s islands. The aim was to capture new photography for my See Loch Lomond website. This was made very easy thanks to Chris Scott-Park’s Loch Lomond speedboat tours from Portnellan Farm. The Scott-Park family have been farming at Portnellan, close to Gartocharn for over 65 years. Their grazing cows enjoy some of the best views of Loch Lomond! A few years ago, Chris began renting kayaks and offering speedboat tours from the family farm. Chris can create a bespoke speedboat tour for you, depending on how long you want to stay on the water and what you want to see and do. His boat can accommodate up to 8 passengers. My first trip took us over to the western shores, past the impressive Rossdhu House, an historic clan seat, which is now home to the exclusive Loch Lomond Golf Club. From there we cruised at a gentle pace through the narrow strait that runs between the islands of Inchmoan, Inchtavannach and Inchconnachan. It’s not an urban myth, wallabies do actually live on Inchconnachan Island. They were introduced by Lady Arran Colquhoun. We didn’t see any on our visit, but Chris has seen them in the past, usually in early morning when it is quiet.

Eilean I Vow

These are just a few hig that can be discovered from all over the world taken in the magnificen water and landed on an recommend his speedb Inchmurrin Island

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When the Covid-19 rest so Chris will resume hi media for more details

@portnellanfarm/

@Portnellan_Farm

Check out See Loch Lom Loch Lomond & The Tr Rossdhu House

Loch Lomond’s two most famous islands are Inchmurrin, its largest with a hotel/ restaurant and the Inchcailloch which is part of the National Nature Reserve. There are some great views from the water of Loch Lomond’s villages and landmarks, including Balmaha, Luss, Ardlui, Conic Hill, Arklet Falls and Rob Roy’s Cave by Inversnaid, The Cobbler and An Ceann Mòr, the pyramid viewing platform at Inveruglas. Plus of course Ben Lomond dominates the skyline, with some beautiful views of the mountain.

On Eilean I Vow (also k at the northern end of t which dates back to 157 spot from the water as explored its exterior.

Inchtavannacn Island

Inveruglas

ping

Chris Scott-Park, Portnellan Farm

known as Island I Vow) close to Ardlui the loch, there is a ruined castle 77. The castle is quite difficult to it is covered with ivy. We landed and

ghlights of the Loch Lomond gems by boat. Chris has taken visitors d on similar tours. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t nt views of Loch Lomond from the n island or two then I would highly boat tours.

trictions ease and allow him to do is speedboat tours. Check his social s

/lochlomond

mond for guides to rossachs www.seelochlomond.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Tir na nOg Holistic Centre & Shop And Soup Dragon Cafe

We miss you! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been really busy making improvements during lockdown and look forward to welcoming you all back soon. Online shop and vouchers still available.

Please see updates on social media for services available as restrictions lift. www.timanog.co.uk | 01360 449300 tirnanogholisticcentre 30 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

soupdragoncafe

1140 funded 1140 hours funded per hours year per atyear Heron at Heron House House Early Early 1140 funded hoursAugust per at Heron Years Killearn Years Killearn from fromyear August 2020! 2020! House Early Years Killearn from August 2020!

From AugustFrom 2020August the number 2020 theofnumber funded of hours funded your hourschild your child is is FromtoAugust 2020hours the number of per funded your child is entitled to is increasing entitled is increasing to 1140 to 1140 per hours year. Funded year.hours Funded hours hours is no increasing to 1140 hours year.following Funded hours are provided are atentitled no provided costtoto at you. cost Your to you. child Your is child eligible isper eligible following are provided at child's nobirthday. costthird to you. Your child is eligible following the term afterthe your term child's after your third birthday. the term after your child's third birthday. How the funding How the works funding works the works We offer full day WeHow offer places full funding day 7.45-6pm places 7.45-6pm and halfand days halfmorning days morning or or Wechild offerwill full be day places and morning afternoons. Your afternoons. Your child entitled will be7.45-6pm to entitled threetofree threehalf days freedays days a week a week or afternoons. childper will be entitled three free days a week term time or two term full timedays or twoYour per full week days allweek year all round. yeartoround. term time or two full days per week all year round. Split Placements Split Placements Split You can access You funding can Placements access across funding one across or more one orregistered more registered You can access across one orormore registered services. Places services. can Places either can befunding fully eitherfunded be fully funded or part funded part funded withwith services. can either be fully funded or part funded with additional hours additional paid hours to Places thepaid provider. to the provider. additional hours paid to the provider. We also haveWe nursery also have places nursery for places under forthrees under threes and an and Out an Out We also have nursery places for something under threes an Out of School Care of School facilityCare should facility this should be something this be that would thatand would of School Care facility should this be something that would benefit your family. benefit your family. benefit your family.

If you would like to discuss this further or come along and visit our nursery, please call Fiona on 01360550162 to make an appointment.

Split Placements You can access funding across one or more registered services. Places can either be fully funded or part funded with additional hours paid to the provider. We also have nursery places for under threes and an Out of School Care facility should this be something that would benefit your family.

How the funding works We offer full day places 7.45-6pm and half days morning or afternoons. Your child will be entitled to three free days a week term time or two full days per week all year round.

From August 2020 the number of funded hours your child is entitled to is increasing to 1140 hours per year. Funded hours are provided at no cost to you. Your child is eligible following the term after your child's third birthday.

1140 funded hours per year at Heron House Early Years Killearn from August 2020!

Park Life | Business

If you would If you likewould to discuss like to discuss this further this further or come or come If you likenursery, to discuss further along and visit along our andwould nursery, visit our please please callthis Fiona call Fiona on or oncome along and visit our nursery, please call Fiona on 01360550162 01360550162 to make an to make appointment. an appointment. 01360550162 to make an appointment.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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celebrating the end of the thursday night clap… Louise Paterson. Lou’s Bake shop, Balfron

Chris Scott-Park, Portnellan Farm

here have been some unexpected changes brought about by Lockdown. It’s been a tough wait for most people, but that tough wait has been punctuated each Thursday evening by a rather out-of-character show of national emotion and gratitude for front-line workers in the NHS. The person responsible for bringing this to the UK from her native Netherlands, is Annmarie Plas. Living in London, she heard the uplifting effect this had in her native land and brought it alive here via social media.

Now it is all over, and you have to wonder, have we changed because of it? Have we become the kinder society that we really all want to live in? Let’s hope we’ve been nudged in that direction. By the time you read this it may all be a distant memory. It will do us all no harm at all to reflect from time to time on those weekly outpourings of warmth, and consider how we might show that in our daily lives.

The virus appears to be on the retreat at the moment, so we will no longer applaud from our windows and gardens. Yes, the end deserves celebration, because it succeeded. The people who it was aimed at felt better for being appreciated, and we all felt better for doing it.

Luke Nisbet (15) Balfron Luke was presented with a commemorative portrait by Jim Thomson and Balfron Community. Art work, Angela Maher at www.pencilsketchportraits.co.uk/contact Still playing on a Thursday to lift the community spirits!

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Allan Ross, Balfron

Calbowie Crooners, Buchlyvie

Park Life | Business

Stylish womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, clothing, accessories accessories and and much much more more Stylish

Moon of Drymen Drymen of

Gift Vouchers Available Gift Vouchers Available I would like to wish all my customers best wishes during this lockdown period.

Fabulous spring/ Moon will re opennew as soon as we can with new safety measures in place. summer styles Our opening will beand announced Newdate colours shapeson inFacebook. Robell Take care you all soon Mairi x trousers Incand 3/4see length.

Summer opening hours

opening hours Main Street, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0BG tel: 01360 660523 Summer Mon to Sat 10-5 Sun 12-4 Main Street, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0BG tel: 01360 660523 Mon to Sat 10-5 Sun 12-4

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

• Online local food market selling fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, bread, cheese, cakes, jams and much more. • Support small scale local producers and environmentally friendly food production. • Weekly collections in Balfron, Aberfoyle, Drymen & Killearn

To order visit www.neighbourfood.co.uk | Follow us on Facebook

NeighbourFood G63 Balfron

Shop Local, Shop Social, Shop Green

zero-waste food byob household refills

(laundry liquid, shampoo etc)

The Drymen Village Hub, 15 Main Street | Open 7 Days (Formerly Drymen Village Shop)

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local food group going from strength to strength

oing your bit to help the planet and support local business has never been easier with zero-waste shopping and the NeighbourFood market now in the G63 area. Established in 2018, The Hub G63 is a Drymen based not-for-profit community organisation. Founding Director, Ruth Glasgow, said “I wanted to bring resources and activities to our rural community, to make it easy for local people to live sustainably and we aim to help people access good sustainable food, support local food producers and reduce their environmental footprint”.

The Hub has recently expanded its activities by taking on the Drymen Village Shop premises, which will be renamed The Village Hub. Ruth said “The Village Shop has always been a focal point of the village, and we will continue to provide the key services that our local customers rely on (newspapers, laundry, dry cleaning and milk etc) and we showcase the amazing local food producers we have in this area, giving a real ‘taste of local’. The shop also provides “zero waste” refills on food and household options to reduce cost and packaging, especially singleuse plastic. Buying local, sustainably produced food is one of the most positive things we can all do, both for the local economy and for the environment.

gone from strength to strength, and there are now weekly collections in Balfron, Aberfoyle, Killearn and Drymen, as well as free home deliveries for customers who are shielding and self-isolating. It has over 700 members, and over 20 producers selling vegetables, meat, dairy produce, wholefoods, bread, jams and much more. We are looking into having a Fintry collection as well. For years now there has been a shift in environmental awareness as well shopping habits; one of The Hub organisers, Richard Boddington commented “events of recent months have really highlighted the value of local food and short supply chains, and the Neighbourfood concept excels in this situation. Not only is it a safe way for our customers to shop locally, but they are also supporting our local producers, many of whom have lost their traditional markets, so everyone benefits.” The Hub G63 has also set up a community garden in Drymen as a place for people to come and grow food and have a chat; another way to build community around food. Having identified land, plans to establish a market garden locally are progressing, which will add to the local food offering. Stay tuned for future dates for wild food foraging activities and the next Scottish Wild Food Festival.

Shop Local, Shop Social, Shop Green!

The Village Hub follows on from last year’s successful launch of Balfron Neighbourfood, an online market for local food producers. Neighbourfood has

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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KEEP CALM AND SUPPORT YOUR

LOCAL SHOPS

Local After Lockdown Businesses up and down the country have suffered an enormous drop off in customer numbers in the last few weeks. Park Life has so many advertising customers who have struggled financially while still trying to maintain a service to their customers. Some may lose the battle to survive. Some will deserve to survive because they have operated locally, and shaped their businesses to serve their community when it was needed. Unusual opening hours, neighbourly phone calls to see if they could do anything for you, arranging volunteer deliveries, there are loads of heartwarming local stories.

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Did we see the massive fast-food chains and supermarkets do this? Of course not. And yet now, we see endless queues of cars desperate to bring their trade back. Is that really deserved? In a just world (if only) it would be our local heroes, including the local businesses, who went the extra mile for us, who acted for our communities, who put their customers before their bottom line, who would head the business survivors queue. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remember who helped us when we are able to exercise our spending power again.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keep it Local After Lockdown

Park Life | Business

EXPLORE

Open for Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddle boarding.

LOCH LOMOND FROM THE WATER

Fully opening soon, watch our Facebook page for details

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.

Family days out Stag and hen parties Wildlife watching Champagne cruise Island visits Speedboat pub tours

Contact Chris Scott-Park

Portnellan Farm, Gartocharn G83 8NL

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

PortnellanFarm

From concept and creation through to fruition • • • •

Bespoke event design service, completely tailored to the individual Events of all kinds; in your home, your business or your venue Custom event decor, design & dressing Bespoke floral arrangements, either for your special event or to purchase as a gift or for yourself. • Free consultation for your event • Local delivery of flowers

Mobile: Rebekah on 07999 771008 | Email: Willowsedge.events@gmail.com Willows-Edge-Events-108859447215964

@willows_edge_events

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A word of thanks... F

or those of you who havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t met us yet, we are Paul and Laura. We took over the Management of The Inn at Kippen in November 2019. Between November and March when the pandemic took over the country, we have had the privilege of working with some fantastic local suppliers and had begun to grow the reputation of The Inn at Kippen as a friendly, welcoming Village Inn, showcasing fantastic local Scottish produce, prepared fresh by our in house team led by Paul. Throughout this pandemic we have tried to come up with innovative ideas to keep food coming imaginatively from our local suppliers direct to your door without the need to come out of the security of your home.

We would like to thank all our customers who have supported us through the last three months, we have been privileged to have the support of such a great community both in Kippen and in the wider community areas who have supported us in the events we have put on during these lockdown months. From online cooking classes to our 5 course tasting menus delivered contactless to your door the response we have had and the friendships we have made have really meant a lot to us both. The Inn at Kippen is a family friendly, dog friendly bar, restaurant and rooms located in Kippen, Stirlingshire in the heart of the Scottish Countryside, within close reach of Stirling, Glasgow & Edinburgh. We would like to thank you for your continued support through out these difficult times and we hope that when it is safe to do so we can welcome you in person to our beer garden and eventually into the Inn at Kippen. Stay safe everyone and we will hopefully see you all again soon.

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Calendar of Events for July and August All events are delivered contactless to your door for you to enjoy Every Friday Evening Chip shop special 5.30 - 7.30pm

Every Sunday Sunday Roast & 3 course Sunday Lunch 2.00 - 6.00pm

Every Tuesday Online cook school via facebook live - 6.30pm

Every second Wednesday at Midday Kids Cook school via facebook live

Saturday 4th July 5 Course Tasting Menu £22 pp Matching Drink Flight £20 per Couple

Saturday 11th July Movie Night - DVD Selection to Keep Prepare Yourself Pizza, Popcorn & Pick & Mix Drinks Package & Ice Cream £25

Saturday 25th July 5 Course Tasting Menu £22 pp Matching Drink Flight £20 per Couple

Saturday 1st August Comedy Night - DVD Selection to Keep Burgers, Popcorn & Pick & Mix Drinks Package & Ice Cream £25

Saturday 8th August 3pm Mad Hatters Tea Party (Afternoon tea with a twist)

Saturday 15th August 5 Course Tasting Menu £22 pp Matching Drink Flight £20 per Couple

Fore Road, Kippen FK8 3DT | T: 01786 870500 | E: info@theinnatkippen.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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0300 323 1545 www.supportinmindscotland.org.uk

Tel: 0800 83 85 87 www.samh.org.uk

Our Information Line is open 9am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday. You can also contact us during the same hours using our Messenger facility.

it’s ok not to be ok.. By Mike McGinn

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he stresses placed on all of us over the past couple of months of lockdown have added to the difficulties that we all have to deal with. This certainly doesn’t make dealing with day to day mental health issues any easier. Mental health is a term that can conjure up a variety of images, not all good. There are positive signs, though, that there is a growing understanding that mental health, like physical health, can be problematic for anyone. When someone is suffering from a physical illness or injury there is usually a clear path from treatment to recovery, and support is easy to give. Mental health issues are much more difficult to recognise, but they need at least as much support. As if COVID-19 wasn’t a difficult enough physical challenge for our society and health services, the knock-on effects of it on mental health are now piling on top. There are pressures from fear of the virus, fear of being a burden, about family health, financial difficulties, isolation and confinement- every aspect of the enforced changes to our lives can have negative effects for some. Of course, these effects are indiscriminate, causing mental health issues across all of society whether you are young or old, rich or poor. There are plenty of lockdown support

www.breathingspace.scot

0800 652 3757 www.turningpointscotland.com

Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am

Mon-Friday 9-5pm. Out of hours: Mon-Thursday 6pm-2am. Weekends: Fri-Mon 6pm-6am

stories of neighbours delivering groceries for the elderly, charities racking up record numbers of volunteers, even Thursday night applause supporting NHS and other frontline workers. There’s no shortage of goodwill and support on offer. Mental health is maybe not the most obvious target for this support effort, but it is needed every bit as much as the volunteer fetching and carrying. It can be as simple as asking how someone is feeling, keeping in touch with those who are isolated or offering a metaphorical shoulder for those who have lost someone, lost their job, or lost their way. Anyone may find they are suffering from a mental health problem and wonder how to go forward. There is support to be had, from the professionals, from trained organisations, and from family, friends and community. If you suspect you might need that support, talk to someone. Yes, there is your GP, and there is a world more besides. Look up and down the sides of this article and you will find an array of contacts who can help any of you or your family and friends who might need it. Let’s prepare for the day this particular Coronavirus blows out, and at least some of the pressure will be off. But don’t stop offering or accepting that shoulder. It’s ok not to be ok.

www.clearyourhead.scot

Call us free on 116 123 www.Samaritans.org Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Text: 85258 www.giveusashout.org Shout is volunteer-run and is the UK’s first 24/7 crises text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Final shop name and Logo Font

Final shop name and Logo Font Park Life | Business

Hewitt Hewitt & & Aker Aker

FINE FOOD AND WINE FINE FOOD AND WINE Thank you to all our Font colour: Cool Gray 8C customers for your Font colour: Cool Gray 8C continued support • Wide variety of Cheeses & Charcuterie • Daily fresh Bread & Bakery (glutenfree breads included) • Wine and Craft Ales • FIne Chocolates • Unique collection of ceramics as gifts filled with olives or confectionery and wrapped for you • Wide range of Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

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

now open FOR TAKEAWAY 7 DAYS - 11AM - 5PM

clachan of campsie Sonas... from old Irish & Scottish Gaelic meaning happiness FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

3 CLACHAN OF CAMPSIE CAMPSIE GLEN GLASGOW G66 7AB • t: 01360 238258

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Stellar Antiques Strathblane

Will help you with valuation, clearance, buying and selling

elcome to Stellar Antiques of Strathblane, who have over 15 years experience in the antiques business around Glasgow & West of Scotland.

WE ARE ONLINE – FOR VALUATION, ADVICE, AND SALES visit www.stellarantiques.co.uk to see what we do, and how we do it! You can email, text, or speak, everything can be done “at a distance” if you prefer! Donald & Rosy are both local and are delighted to help you out with any requirements you may have - valuations, probate assistance, house clearances, and estate distribution advice.....we buy and sell all kinds of items including whole collections.... furniture, collectables, jewellery, vinyl records, paintings, artworks, ceramics, etc, The fast changing modern antiques business also encompasses vintage and modern as well as older classic items. In this new marketplace some items that used to be highly valued and collectible by previous generations are no longer desirable, and some that used to be discarded are

now sought after - confusing! Ask us for advice which is free and without obligation. We are always happy to help. As well as online “at a distance” visits and discussion, we deal online with Ebay and Etsy - as well as social media (Facebook, Instagram). Donald is still happy to meet in person to discuss your requirements or help with valuation advice. Feel free to make contact us - no obligation!

Stellar Antiques WANTED!

FREE VALUATIONS

BEST PRICES PAID

CONSIGNOR TO AUCTION

FOR ANTIQUES, VINTAGE,

HOUSE CLEARANCE

VINYL RECORDS, COLLECTABLES ETC

LOCAL -Strathblane, Balfron, & Loch Lomond Area

STRATHBLANE, GLASGOW

T. O7771501560

DONALD@STELLARANTIQUES.CO.UK

www.stellarantiques.co.uk t. 07771 501560 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Drymen, Croftamie and Buchanan pull together to support the community in response to Covid-19

illages throughout the Park Life area responded quickly and positively to help neighbours and friends manage the impact of Covid-19.

At the start of social distancing two young girls in Drymen came up with a plan to deliver shopping to vulnerable neighbours, whilst Amanda Reid set up a Facebook page to provide emotional support for residents in the village. Within hours an army of volunteers had formed a joint group to support Drymen, Croftamie and Buchanan through the crisis. Currently there are 120 volunteers, carrying out many essential services, such as twice weekly food deliveries from the Village Shop, Spar Shop, butcher and Aldi. As well as delivering food the volunteers provide much needed emotional support to residents. Communication has been strong, with a new

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website introduced (drymensupport.co.uk) and a booklet to explain about the support available. The group successfully applied for some Government grants. One of these allowed them to provide internet access and equipment for those who previously relied on the local library to get on-line. Some of the ÂŁ1,800 raised so far through donations to the groups Go Fund Me page has been used to purchase food supplies for those in financial difficulty. It is anticipated that more funds will be needed to continue this in the months to come so the group is keeping their appeal open for donations.

comments from local residents include: Agnes McQueen - Croftamie "I have found the service invaluable as I am stuck at home. They are supporting me by delivering my weekly shopping."

As lockdown restrictions begin to ease, we spoke to one of the groups organisers Louise Macfarlane who told us that their work is far from over. "There has been a nervousness from some of the people that we are supporting that these services will end. We have reassured them that this is not the case and are aware of many who will find the coming months very difficult financially and emotionally." We have a fantastic support network in place, and everything is completely confidential so don’t sit hungry, worried or embarrassed in these unusual times. Let us help you." Similar good work is happening across all of the Park Life areas towns and villages. As well as the much-needed practical support it’s the emotional support that is proving to be such a vital component for resilience within the communities. A Drymen Resident “I am staying indoors so very much welcome the service. The delivery people are friendly and polite and doing a great service for the villages. Thank you to the village shops for their hard work too!" Rosie Allan – Buchanan "We greatly appreciate all the help we have been given by our local volunteers who so kindly bring us shopping and go that extra mile with a smile. Haven't we got such a great community, thank you, thank you!”

Small and large acts of kindness have helped many residents through this very difficult time. If you have a story about your community that you would like featured in a future edition of Park Life Magazine please email katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk

Pictured left to right: Andrew Richardson - Drymen Community Council, Amanda Reid - Coordinator - Emotional Support, Louise Macfarlane - Coordinator - Deliveries, Rosemary Semple - Card payments, Peter Lloyd - Croftamie Community Council, Dawn Conner - Foodbank, Laura Gordon - Accounts, Amanda MacLeod - Deliveries, Liz Francis - Volunteer Caroline Clark - Foodbank, Claire Whyte - Volunteer

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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A huge thank you from the community to Lynne Alldritt and her team at The Beech Tree Inn - Dumgoyne

By Susan Kellie

The local community has pulled together and helped out by in a number of ways: • Donating egg boxes • Anonymous donation of brand new cardboard boxes • Inverhall Marquees provided use of a large marquee to keep the collection points dry

e are all very proud of the owner of the Beech Tree Inn, Lynne Alldritt for quickly converting her restaurant into an online food shop on 18th March 2020. The idea behind this was to make sure vulnerable people in the surrounding villages were still able to get food and essentials without having to make a trip to the big supermarkets. Delivery slots were, and still are, hard to come by from supermarkets so Lynne and her team work hard to make sure the deliveries go out same day free of charge (minimum spend £30) to the local villages of Strathblane, Killearn, Balfron, Buchlyvie, Croftamie, Boquhan, Gartness and Gartocharn. The team have set up a safe and effective collection zone, allowing customers to collect their orders with no contact from anyone and with hand gel available.

• Mugdock Country Park loaned fencing for the car park to keep it safe and secure • The Balfron 10K organisers provided cones for the car park • Many people have offered to help, in particular Derek Townsend with web support • Glasgow Warriors offered assistance Everyone is doing their bit. The team has a priority for NHS staff and emergency service workers, and has spent a lot of time on the phone to people who have never used online shopping before, helping them get their order in. Overall this massive team effort has offered the local villages a safe and hassle-free option for their essential supplies, whilst also keeping the Beech Tree in business and the staff in jobs. The local community has really pulled together during this time and it has been so uplifting to see. If we can continue to use this service, not only will Lynne get better prices for her customers but she will be able to keep the staff employed. Supporting this business also helps ensure the animals are fed & cared for in addition to keeping this local business ticking over. Lynne and the team will also be extending the beer & wine range as well as the soft drinks range in the next couple of weeks, see Facebook or the website for updates

As I write this the Beech Tree has over 1200 products online and new stock coming in daily from suppliers and Lynne also doing runs into town for stock. Starting out with essential products such as pasta and the elusive toilet roll, it has now grown to include a large variety from pet food to sweets to cooking sauces and cleaning products – she has even managed to source flour which was very high demand! Lynne keeps in contact with the locals through facebook groups and does her best to source peoples’ requests especially when it comes to dietary requirements. The local Balfron Butcher has collaborated and sells his products through the Beech Tree site so this has helped him keep his business going also.

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Keep Supporting Local www.theinnshop.com Follow on Facebook

The Beech Tree Inn

A helping hand from Drymen & Buchanan Churches

to be more important than ever: “Our church is a place where God’s love touches lives, where faith is strengthened, the lost are found, the poor are served, the lonely are encouraged and where God gets the credit for it all.” If there is anything practical or prayerful that we as a church can do for you then please let us know. You can contact me on 01360 870212. Or at revalexj1@gmail.com With every blessing from Drymen and Buchanan churches.

By Rev. Alex J Macpherson

n these uncertain times the parish churches of Drymen and Buchanan would like to reach out to you in any way we can. We all experience seasons of difficulty and challenge and we would love to encourage you, whatever your circumstances are. We are excited about our series: LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS, a journey through Mark’s Gospel. Many of you may already have received an invitational postcard and free copy of the Gospel of Mark from our church. All the online video services can be accessed at www.drymenchurch.org. We’d love you to join us! Prayer is another way we can be encouraged. Our prayer teams are committed to lifting up the needs of the community through prayer. We would love to pray with you and for you and simply ask that you forward your prayer request to the Drymen Church webpage so that we can partner you in prayer. As churches we are also supporting Stirling’s Emergency Foodbank. Details of collection times can be found on the church website and also the Stirling Observer. Before lock down our church leadership team was working on our Mission Statement and in these challenging times it seems to me

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Park Life | Business

FELDENKRAIS CLASSES ONLINE An hour of self-discovery based on gentle, guided movements that will help you to breathe, move and feel better, awaken creativity and expand your capacity to make the most of life. Anyone can benefit from the Feldenkrais Method, regardless of age or ability, and now is the perfect time. All you need is a mat or blanket and an open mind.

Classes take place via Zoom on Wednesdays at 10.30am and 4.30pm For details call Jane Meek on 07759 182236 or email janemfr@tiscali.co.uk Photo© Jonathan Thrift Feldenkrais Method® is the registered trademark of the Feldenkrais Guild UK Ltd. Reg. No. 1563759

Call Jane Meek on 07759 182236 or e-mail janemfr@tiscali.co.uk for details

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Before you go queuing around the block for Starbucks, Costa, Greggs, Burger King, KFC and McDonalds, remember these huge fast food companies will be fine after lockdown… Spend your money with local cafes & takeaways who are fighting to stay in business every single day! Support our local economy by supporting local businesses!

FITNESS

Park Life | Busines

JANE MEEK – BODY CONTROL PILATES & FELDENKRAIS Classes are running online until further notice PILATES (small multilevel groups, some prior experience essential) Monday 12, 5, 6.30 & 8pm Thursday 10am, 6 & 8pm Beginners’ Pilates class: Thursday 11.30am (will run subject to demand)

FELDENKRAIS Wednesday: 10.30am & 4.30pm

Kerr McMillan – The Aizle Facebook Live Classes FREE to all.

STUDIO 63 Online Support/Challenges etc (see Facebook)

Tall Trees Aberfoyle/Lindas Body Control Pilates All Classes are cancelled until further notice, Linda is teaching via zoom. Contact for more details and updates. 07758 496820.

Dancercise with Yasmin – FREE online Dance Fitness Classes! Especially designed for over 50’s/Beginners and for anyone who loves to dance! Guaranteed to cheer you up! Visit Dancercise with Yasmin on YouTube.

Just do Pilates with Willie MacIntosh Classes are running online till further notice, check out Facebook

Zumba with Jane Everybody Welcome to join online just send email via facebook to get added to the group.

Zest Fitness – Shona Nicolson Virtual Fitness Classes Email to register to join live Stream on Zoom info@zestfitnesstraining.co.uk

Dragon Spring Taiji & Qigong All classes are at the moment suspended. Zoom classes currently online. To find out more contact Susanne Lin Jensen, 07979 860754, Susanne@dragonspringtaiji.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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THE

thank you to the resillience team in fintry from fiona leslie Greenloft

EST 1750

naturals

would very much like you to acknowledge the amazing work that the resilience team in Fintry have been doing since lock down began. They have been truly amazing. The team collect prescriptions for everyone in the village who requires them and also keeps an eye on the villagers who are shielding or are vulnerable in any way. Older people and vulnerable people have received

lovely food boxes, made up with produce from three suppliers in the village - The Sports Club, Katy RodgersCafe and the Fintry Inn, as well as antibacterial soap from Green Loft Naturals. They have also had fish suppers, delivered by the resilience team, made by The Fintry Inn. The Resilience Team have also taken over the Community Garden and the garden at the primary school and nursery and are growing vegetables, to

be distributed throughout the village when the vegetables are ready to be harvested. I hasten to mention that l am not a member of the team, nor do l have a vested interest in any of the companies mentioned. I am, in fact, one of the recipients of the kindness and generosity of the hard working team. The councillor who organises the team is Michele Bennett, who lives in the village.

Keeping you... SAFE! MAGAZINE

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!

50 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Our Next Edition Covers

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER Deadline date for copy is 12/8/20

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

Park Life | Business

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

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

Extensions New Builds Glazing Bathroom renovations

• • • •

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

No job too big or small Free Estimates

the Planning and Building Warrant procedures.

imon Head Joinery Services

Tel: 01764 682 710 | Mob: 07764 255163 Glendevon Cottage, Stirling Street, Blackford, PH4 1QA simonheadjoineryservices@hotmail.co.uk

MW CONSULTANTS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN T: 07799 778086 E: murray@mw-consultants.co.uk www.mw-consultants.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.

Golden Charter Funeral Plans are also available

• 24 Hour Service

“TULMORE”, 27 Castlehill Loan, Kippen FK8 3DZ. TEL: 01786 870737 • 07702 490285 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Need it Done Right?

DUNRITE PLUMBING Pride in Workmanship

Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens No call out charge FREE Estimates

Minor repairs to complete installation

Fully Insured

T: 01360 550799 M: 07772944521 E: dunrite.plumbing3@gmail.com

Strathendrick Decorating & Plastering Interior, Exterior Paint Work. Ames Taping. Coving and all types of Plasterwork.

All types of painting& decorating work undertaken blainpainters@outlook.com

John Gault m: 07748 283947 Allan Denton m: 07984 549933

www.blainpainters.com 07876 025219 / 01360 850441 43 Main Street, Buchlyvie FK8 3LR

Email: strathdp@hotmail.com

Buchlyvie Electrical

All Electrical Work Undertaken Electric Radiators Supplied and Fitted

Davie Haggerty Specialising in thermal dynamic electric radiators replacements for old storage heaters. Email: buchlyvieelectrical@aol.com

Fully Insured T: 07826 628320 52 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

STEWART HOLLINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Established Since 1983

t: 01877 385231 m: 07885 841735

Park Life | Business

CONTRACTORS ROOFING AND BUILDING SERVICES

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

MAGAZINE

SANDSTONE REPAIR & RESTORATION

EPDM ROOFING SYSTEM (FOR FLAT ROOFS) ROUGHCASTING GUTTERS

Our Next Edition Covers

view our work at:

www.rmcontractors.pro Tel:

Deadline date for copy is 12/8/20

£500

(+vat)

01389 605352

Mob: 07519 267764

FREE FITTING

POWER YOUR EXISTING GARAGE DOOR from as little as

Proprietor Gavin McGregor

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

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

DOORS STARTING AT

S L AT I N G

ON ALL NEW GARAGE DOORS

Cont us now act for a

FREE QUO

£280(+vat)

TATIO N

• Garage Doors • Spares Remote Control Openers Installation Repairs

Our • Services •

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

EST 1996

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

5 Kiltrochan Drive, Balfron G63 0QJ

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Aberfoyle Satellite Company Incorporating Flight Aerials

Aerial & Satellite Installation & Repair Service

Call Karen on 01389 721095 Commercial

Your local Satellite Company No Job Too Big or small Find us on Facebook

Joe Kennedy

Contract Hire for: Bed, Bath & Table Linen Laundering Linen for: Hotels • B&B’s Restaurants • Health Clubs • Hairdressers

Domestic

Laundry & Dry Cleaning • Service Wash Ironing • Pet Beds

FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE

Keep it local!

Mob: 0787 590 6767

TWO fo

Duvet

r ONE

This o Cleanin ffer h as bee g OFFER to t n during he end of Ju extended ly a the will a lock down nd ls p to Clie o be availa eriod ble nts w h o ha Collec tions ve

EQUINE LAUNDRY SERVICE We use a trustworthy third party. The equine laundry uses only NIKWAX washing and proofing products for top quality results.

Units 8 & 9, North St Ind Est, North Street, Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire G83 0EA Lock Down Public Opening Times Mon to Thur 10am - 4pm. Fri, Sat & Sun CLOSED Collection & Delivery by arrangement. Laundry Services ONLY

www.thelaundrylady.co.uk 54 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

homeworx

Email: jodieaberfoylesatellite@gmail.com

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

Park Life | Business

Our Next Edition Covers MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER Deadline date for

Your whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on copy is 12/8/20 guide & advertiser for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

Household & Industrial Floor Sanding Services Fraser Murray, 22 Graham Rd, Killearn G63 9RR

Tel: 01360 550630 Tel: 07802156368

Email: theeonlyfrasermurray@gmail.com

mparchitecture ltd

Before

After

MORRIS ARCHITECTS

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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s ts

ow Arbori g s a

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 56 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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

Park Life | Business

Of Killearn Professional, fully guaranteed, high standard of work carried out by qualified tradesmen. Interior and Exterior • Painting • Coving Paper Hanging • Ames Taping

Plastering Service Now Available Call Timmy Kearney for a free, no obligation quote. 51 Charles Crescent, Drymen G63 0BU Email: Tk@endrickdecorators.co.uk

Tel: 01360 660407 Mobile: 07591 586596

GN ELECTRICAL

Domestic & Commercial Electricians

Gregor Nicolson DRYMEN - 07773 299 315 gnelectrical@live.co.uk

Domestic & Commercial Installations Extensions & New Builds Full & partial Rewires Fuse Box Replacement Indoor & Outdoor Lighting 24hr Emergency Call Out Fault Finding TV/Satellite Installs PAT Testing Free Estimates & Advice Insurance Work

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

BUY ONE GET O FREE NE !

FK postcodes covered by Stirling Branch 01786 472335 stirling@apollo-blinds.co.uk 27 Cowane Street, Stirling FK8 1JW

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

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

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

J Walker Interiors

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

SMALL

BLIND REPAIRS

MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS PELMETS AND HEADBOARDS FREE EXPERT INSTALLATION DAYTIME, EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS

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

The perfect curtains & blinds to frame your view

You look around your house and through the windows at the garden. Gorgeous. This lockdown has some benefits. Then you look at the windows themselves, and think, “you know what would finish this off nicely?” John & Marion’s curtains and blinds have been framing the views from countless Park Life readers’ windows for many years. They provide an outstanding personal service at a very competitive price. Customers can be assured that their service is provided with the best COVID-19 protection, with social distancing and hygiene as a priority. Everything is supplied and fitted, with no flat-packs to assemble or holes to drill for you. From initial contact, through design, selection, measuring and fitting, you’ll be delighted with their attention to detail. And maybe most of all, you’ll be delighted with the price. “Fantastic reliable service from John and Marion! They came and measured up, and the choice of fabrics they had to choose from is incredible and had me stuck for choice. In a very short time the blinds were made, and John installed them. The bill was incredibly light! I can't recommend them highly enough.” Kirsty (Strathblane)

free design service complete project management full installation service bespoke kitchen furniture family run business

01360 661456 www.mykitcheninteriors.com

In The Scottish Stove Centre

63, Main Street, Croftamie, G63 0EU

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. A wide range of memorial stones are available. We can also clean and add further inscriptions to existing family memorials.

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 1RW, Tel: 01786 237480 Email: info@anderson-funerals.co.uk • www.anderson-funerals.co.uk 60 |

www.parklifescotland.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 and conversions. • Garage, garden room and holiday cabin construction.

Established since 2000

• Patios, fencing, decking and 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 | 61

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

WINDOW • • • •

SOLUTIONS

Sash & Case Window Specialist Refurbishment of existing Windows New Windows Replacement of Windows to match existing on listed buildings • All aspects of Joinery • Heritage glazing to existing windows

Mobile 07967 103 995 Home 01786 870 531 brwindowsolutions@gmail.com

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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

Park Life | Business

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

WASP CONTROL LOCAL AREA SERVICE

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

Phone: 01360 770748 Mobile: 07795 010732

Our Next Edition Covers MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER Deadline date for

Your what’s on copy is 12/8/20 guide & advertiser for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

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

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GLASGOW STUMP REMOVAL

Park Life | Business

Glasgow, Edinburgh & Stirling Tree & Hedge Stump Removal What we do with your unwanted tree stumps.

Using lawn-friendly specialist stump grinding machines, Glasgow 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

OW GLASG MOVAL RE STUMP estimates

y riendl quipment Free f ye riendl service f n w l La siona en Profes d gard y e c n e F ibilit access 64 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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

Park Life | Business

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

Mobile: 07828 310065

Lime Mortar Work & Repointing T: 01360 440893 M: 07966 864811 Steps & paths

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

General Building & Property Maintenance

or a

Decking, fencing & outdoor timber DECKING, FENCING & OUTDOOR Artificial turfTIMBER Decking, fencing ARTIFICIAL TURF& outdoor timber Turfing Artificial turf Decking, fencing & outdoor timber TURFING Grass cutting & hedge cutting Decking, fencingtimber & outdoor timber Turfing Artificial turf Decking, fencing &&outdoor GRASS CUTTING General garden maintainence Artificial turf HEDGE CUTTING Grass cutting & hedge cutting Turfing Artificial turf Power washing Turfing Decking, fencing & outdoor timber General garden GENERAL GARDEN Grass cutting & maintainence hedge cutting Turfing MAINTAINENCE free no cutting obligation quote call Pat Grass cutting & hedge cutting Artificial turf Power washing General garden Grass & maintainence hedge cutting Decking, fencing & outdoor timber POWER WASHING General garden maintainence Turfing Power washing General garden maintainence

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

Call: 07891868143 or a free no obligation quote call Pat Artificial turf Grass & hedge cutting Power washing Decking, fencing & outdoor timber Power cutting washing Decking, fencing & harpergardenservices@gmail.com Email: or a free no obligation quote call Pat Turfing General garden maintainence Call: 07891868143 Artificial turf Artificial turf For a free no obligation quote call Pat or a free no obligation quote call Pat Grass cutting & hedge cutting washing PatPower works all year round Email: harpergardenservices@gmail.com Call: 07891868143 General garden maintainence

Turfing

Call: 07891868143 Call: 07891868143 harpergardenservices@gmail.com Email: or a free no obligation call Pat fencing & outdoor timber Grass cutting & hedge cuttingGrass cutting & h PatPower works all Decking, yearquote round washing Email: harpergardenservices@gmail.com Email: harpergardenservices@gmail.com Artificial turf Pat works all year round General garden maintainence General garden m Call: 07891868143 Turfing or a free no obligation call Pat works yearquote round Patall works all year harpergardenservices@gmail.com Email:Pat Grass cutting & hedge round cutting Power washing Power washing

Call: 07891868143 General garden maintainence works all Power yearwashing round For a free no obligation quote call Pat harpergardenservices@gmail.com Email:Pat a free no obligatio Decking, fencing &For outdoor timber Decking, fencing & outdoor timber

For aall free no obligation Pat Artificial turf Pat works year round quote call | 65 Call: 07891868143 www.parklifescotland.co.uk Artificial turf Call: 078918 Call: 07891868143 Email:

Turfing harpergardenservices@gmail.com Turfing Email: harpergardenser

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

Sorbus-Biz-Side1.pdf

Private & Commercial Work

26/10/2016

11:46

Shandon Wood, Ruskie, Stirling FK8 3LG | Tel: 07734 069952Tel: 01786 850764 | Email: dugieclarkcm@btinternet.com

MACINTOSH

FENCING

CONTRACTING

For all your equestrian, agricultural & garden fencing needs C

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

Monthly price plans available to help you keep on top of your poo K 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

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

• 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

Park Life | Business

All types of quality timber buildings built to your own specification. Fencing, gates & decking Agent for Lidget Compton Concrete Garages Kersie Bank, Kersie Terrace, South Alloa, Stirlingshire FK7 7NJ Open Tel 01324 831033 / 0777 057 4461 www.patersonsgardenbuildings.co.uk 7 days

From initial consultation and full colour design to complete garden build... all under one roof!

www.cruachanlandscaping.co.uk

01786 841719 or 01877 339993

Registered Member

We accept all major credit and debit cards

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Index

Accountants, Business & Legal Baxter Accounting

Funeral Services 17

Drymen Business Hub

Andrew Anderson & Sons Archibald Billet

Laundry Services 60 71

The Laundry Lady

Logs & Fuel

JMC Chartered Accountants

John Coubrough Funeral Directors 51

Wood for Fuel

Mckendry Dunion Financial

Gardening & Outdoors

Painters & Decorators

Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 17

Benview Garden Centre

Blain Painters

Activities , Entertainment & Kids

Craig Tree Services

Endrick Decorators of Killearn

Country Cycles Killearn

Cruachan Landscaping

Jack Brand Decorating

Dugie Clark Clachan Mhor

Strathendrick Decorators

Pet Services

26 & 27

Go Country

Heron House Early Years

Fraser Robb

Portnellan Farm

Glasgow Stump Removal

Glasgow Arborists

56 65

Architects & Consultants

Kuruba

Photography, Media Marketing & Design

Malcolm Parry Architects

Harper Garden Services

Morris Architects

John Currie Brick and Stonework 65

Paul Saunders Media & Photography 18

MW Architects

Loch Ard Land Services

Skep Design

Car, Bus & Taxi

Macintosh Fencing

Property Services

E Mac Bus

Paterson Garden Buildings Ltd

JGM Executive Travel

Corum

S.Marshall Gardening Services

Trades & Services

Electricians

19 72

Scotia Contracts Ltd

Buchlyvie Electrical

Aberfoyle Satellite Company

Sorbus Tree Service

Stewart Hollington

Adrian Pirie

T D Trees

GN Electrical

Bathroom Transformations

Tradstocks

BR Window Solutions

FRBS Ltd

Dunrite Plumbing

Drymen Tiling

GS Roofing Ltd

Events & Flowers

Health & Wellbeing

Willows Edge Events

Jane Meek Pilates/feldenkrais classes 48

Moon 33

Outdoor Personal Training

Food, Drink & Accommodation

Tir Na Nog

Drymen Village Hub

Hewitt & Aker

Inn at Kippen

38 & 39

KP Fish

24 & 25

Loch Lomond Hideaways Neighbourfood

5 34 & 35

Reilly & Sons Sonas Cafe Bistro St Mocha at Carbeth

15 42 3

the Old Mill Bar and Restaurant 33 68 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds

Colin Johnson Traditional Upholstery 58 Edge of the wood

Head Roof Cleaning

Homeworx Killearn

LockForce

Power Doors

53 53

Household & Industrial Floor sanding services

RM Contractors

J Walker Interiors

Simon Head Joinery

Kitchen & Bathroom Interiors

Stewart Reid

Stellar Antiques

Wasp Control

Two Ravens Forge

Wasp Control

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

Servicing & repair from highly trained engineers

SAR Plumbing Services Bathroom Suites, Kitchens and Central Heating Fitted Boiler Exchanges No call out fees

Gutters repaired fitted and cleared Central Heating Systems Power Flush

All plumbing enquiries contact Stewart: 07926 152292 • 07938 473571 Stewart.reid1967@gmail.com

Craig Tree Care

Professional Tree Surgeons

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

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

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Park Life | Business

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

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. Pre paid funeral plans through Golden Charter are available to give your family peace of mind. Independent Funeral Director

Established Since 1955

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

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

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Park Life | Business

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