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Glasgow East and North News

Your voice in the community

Next Edition 8th August 2014

Commemorative edition

THE GAMES ARE OPEN

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Adult Learning Digital Photographer Celebrates Success GLASGOW Life North East Communities would like to congratulate Enda Lynch in winning a two night stay in Edinburgh as a result of successfully being voted runner up in the online Tune Hotels Edinburgh Photo Competition with an amazing photo of Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge at night. What’s even more impressive is that Enda only took up digital photography less than 6 months ago after visiting Dennistoun Library and seeing the photography exhibition produced by the North East Communities Digital Photography Group delivered by Adult Learning Tutor David Evans. Enda entered the online Tune Hotels Edinburgh Photo Competition earlier this year and was initially informed that her entry had been voted third place, to only be informed several weeks later that her entry had moved to second place after the winning photo was discovered to

GREATER MILTON & POSSILPARK CREDIT UNION LIMITED

In the absense of banking facilities in Milton, the credit union offers affordable and reliable financial services to the community, regardless of people’s resources or their level of income. Low interest loans are available to members. Any surplus the credit union makes on its activities during the year can be returned to the members in the form of a dividend. Members can save as often as they like and, up to a certain limit, as much as the like. The credit union operates from two additonal collections points:

be someone else’s professional picture. You can see Enda’s amazing picture along with many others produced by follow learners for the latest July to

If you are interested in joining the group please contact Shaun Pearce Glasgow Life North East Communities on 07717701250 or enquire in Dennistoun Library.

What’s on in the North East Area WEE SPORTS SITE Glasgow Club Easterhouse

Commonwealth Sports Club - Free, fun filled day for all of the family. Includes sport such as cycling, basketball, and football. Also includes face painting, arts and crafts and pre 5 areas.

Sunday

27th July 2014

12.30noon - 4pm

WEE SPORTS SITE Glasgow Club Springburn

Commonwealth Sports Club - Free, fun filled day for all of the family. Includes sport such as cycling, basketball, and football. Also includes face painting, arts and crafts and a pre 5 areas. Large screen to watch the Commonwealth Games

Saturday

26th July 2014

12noon - 4pm

28th July 2014

11am - 5pm

Springburn Library

Cadder Community Centre Tuesday 7pm - 8pm Possilpark Parish Church Saturday 10am -12pm

Working in Milton, Possilpark

Sept exhibition at Dennistoun Library. The Adult Learning Digital Photography group are recruiting currently for a new group starting. Happy Snapping!!!

Barmulloch Community Centre

Cranhill Community Centre

Tollcross Community Centre

Family Extravaganza Family fun day with face painting , arts and crafts and sports activities Celebrate the Commonwealth - Commonwealth extravaganza – exciting event to say goodbye to The Games, including story telling youth with stories form commonwealth countries, international food, musical performances, children’s activities, tea dancing, line dancing, youth activities bouncy castle, face paining.

Monday

Friday

August

4pm – 7pm

Holiday Programme Commonwealth based art project and activities for 5-11 years

Tuesday

29th July & 5th August 2014

1pm - 3pm

Youth Project for over 12 years Hip-hop music project for young people aged between 12- 18. Song writing and music with well known Glasgow rapper – Loki.

Monday

28th July & August 4th

4pm – 6pm

Toll cross Sub Zero Join us for a fantastic Club Night. Top DJ, Mocktail bar and More! Ages: All Young people from first year and above welcome.

Friday

15th August 2014

7 - 10pm

Working in Partnership with GCC project- Future Savers - Glasgow’s Starter for 10

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Team Glasgow 2014 to deliver best ever Commonwealth Games - and within budget SCOTLAND is set to stage the best-ever Commonwealth Games, the Glasgow 2014 Games Partners have announced. Games Partners expressed confidence that Glasgow 2014 would be the first Games for a generation to be delivered within budget. First Minister Alex Salmond, chaired the final meeting of the Glasgow 2014 Strategic Group at the magnificent SSE Hydro in Glasgow last week. It was confirmed that a provision of £5.2 million would be put in place to be managed at Games time by the Games Executive Committee (GEC) which has the delegated authority of the Strategic Group. Following the meeting the First Minister also announced a £3.5million investment from the Special Reserve to improve the spectator experience by increasing transport and traffic services, including enhancements to Park and Ride facilities. The Special Reserve was created as a fund of £23.84m which forms part of the Games’ overall budget. The success of Glasgow 2014’s Ticketing Programme ensures packed stadia across

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the sporting programme. The transport team has analysed and predicted the travel patterns of ticket holders and other visitors to the city. Park and Ride enhancements have been identified as a key part of travel plans and keeping the city moving at Games time. From today, the GEC, on which all Games Partners are represented, is responsible for Games operations and has the delegated authority of the Strategic Group throughout Games time through to dissolution of the Organising Committee. First Minister Alex Salmond said: “Around 4,500 athletes from 71 competing Commonwealth

nations and territories will compete in Glasgow and it gives me enormous pleasure to say Scotland is ready to host the greatest Games ever. “A tremendous amount of work has gone into delivery of this sporting event over the last seven years and I’m delighted to announce that these Games are on time and within budget. That is an almost unprecedented position for a major event of this type and is testament to the immense planning, knowledge, expertise and sheer determination that everyone involved in the Games has shown. “The eyes of the world will be on Scotland and we are ready to shine!

enormous pride in Glasgow and Scotland and leaving a lasting legacy. “Thanks to the people of Glasgow and Scotland, a world-class stage is now set. We are redefining the Commonwealth Games for a new generation.” Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council said: “We are ready to host the best ever Games, but I’ve always said we will have failed if we don’t leave a lasting legacy for Glaswegians. “Today I’m proud to publish our pre Games Legacy Story which shows we’ve brought 4500 young or unemployed people into a job or an apprenticeship, nearly doubled the number of qualified sport coaches in the city, and used the Games to secure £200 million of contracts for Glasgow companies.” Michael Cavanagh, Chairman Commonwealth Games Scotland said: “We are delighted that the final pieces are in place to host a Commonwealth Games the whole nation can be proud of and one which extends a warm welcome to 70 countries from across the Commonwealth.

“Working closely with our sporting partners, Team Scotland has selected its largest ever, and best-prepared Team. For our 310 athletes, the excitement is building as they move into the Athletes’ Village, aiming to achieve Scotland’s most successful Commonwealth Games.” DCC Steve Allen, Gold Commander, Police Scotland said: “The Commonwealth Games event is about people working together to deliver a world class spectacle. The safety and security team consists of police officers and staff, military personnel, prison service colleagues and the largest single component being delivered by the private sector. “Working together in new and innovative ways we have already started to deliver a leading-edge safety and security operation that will create an environment in which the highest aspirations for the event can be met. “We are proud to be part of the team delivering a Games experience that will resonate around the country long after the athletes have gone home and the security fences have come down.”

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16 YEAR OLD BOY SUSTAINS FRACTURED SKULL IN AN ASSAULT

POLICE Scotland detectives at London Road are continuing enquiries and appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in the Dennistoun area of Glasgow on the evening of Sunday 20 July 2014. At around 2155 hours, a 47 year old woman was within her home address in Whitevale Street when three people attended at her front door. They forced entry to the property and assaulted two boys who were inside the property with a blunt weapon. They then made off in an unknown direction. The only descriptions available of the suspects are that there were two men and one woman. A 16 year old boy sustained

With over a million tickets sold and 15,000 clyde-sider volunteers starting to play their part in making the Games a great success, the city is abuzz with anticipation. This is the biggest sporting and cultural event Scotland has hosted and this Government is determined to maximise benefits beyond 2014. The delivery on the Games is on track and the economic impact is already being felt across our communities. Glasgow 2014 is something for the whole country to be proud of and I for one cannot wait for the action to begin and to get behind Team Scotland.” Lord Smith of Kelvin KT, Chairman of the Glasgow 2014 Organising committee said: “With five days to go until the start of Scotland’s biggest and most popular sporting festival the people of Glasgow and Scotland can take real pride in the history-making Games that, together, we have created for the Commonwealth. As an Organising Committee we set out with a vision of delivering an athlete centred, sports focused Games of world-class competition that would be celebrated across the Commonwealth and create

a fractured skull during the incident, and was taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment by ambulance. He is currently detained in hospital, and medical staff describe his condition as stable. A 13 year old boy sustained a minor knee injury in the incident, and he was also taken to hospital. He was later discharged following treatment. Detective Inspector Ogilvy Ross, who is in charge of this enquiry, said today: “We’re continuing significant enquiries into the circumstances of this incident, and would like to reassure the public and local community that we believe this attack is not random. I’d like to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of

Whitevale Street at the time of the incident. Our enquiries have revealed that shortly after the incident at Whitevale Street, a Ford Mondeo car was vandalised in Bellfield Street, around 2205 hours. I’d like to speak to any local people who may have witnessed anyone acting suspiciously around Bellfield Street around that time to contact us – they may have information which could assist with our enquiries.” Anyone with information is asked to contact London Road CID on 101. Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be passed in confidence.

SU M

VOLVOMAX

VOLVO SPECIALISTS & ALL OTHER MAKES DOUGIE MAXWELL 23 SPRINGBOIG AVENUE GLASGOW G32 OJL TEL: 0141 774 5238 EMAIL: DOUGIEMAXWELL@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

HATE CRIMES RISE 22%

RESPONDING to figures from the Crown Office showing that hate crime against disabled people has increased by 12 per cent and sexual orientation aggravated crime has increased by 22 per cent, Scottish Labour’s Jackie Baillie said: “The shocking rise in hate crimes against disabled people illustrated by these figures is particularly worrying, as is the almost 80 per cent rise in crimes

against transgender people. “With the Lord Advocate recently admitting that hate crime is significantly underreported, especially in relation to crimes against disabled people, the problem is almost certainly even worse than these figures suggest. “Increases in racial hate crime, sexual orientation aggravated crime, and hate crime against transgender people are all cause for serious concern, but the sig-

nificant rise in crimes against disabled people, coupled with the assumption that many more are not being reported, is absolutely appalling. “The Scottish Government must do more to tackle the underlying issues behind hate crimes in order to make our society more equal and protect the most vulnerable from these disgraceful and unprovoked attacks.”

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NEW LONDON ROAD ARTWORK PULSE is a series of temporary and permanent artworks situated along London Road connecting Glasgow Green, and the Barras Calton in the East End of the city. Two new permanent artworks sited along London Road by Glasgow based artists, Jacqueline Donachie and Iain Kettles, have been commissioned to create new focal points that reference the rich industrial legacy of the area whilst celebrating the arrival of the Games and it’s legacy beyond 2014. Temporary film projections by local and internationally renowned artists will line the Barras Calton and inflatable sculptures will create an imaginative and vibrant journey through or to this historic part of Glasgow, creating a different destination both day and night

during the Games. Saturday 26.07.2014 - Sunday 03.08.2014 As part of PULSE, Picture Window is screening a diverse selection of video artworks by emerging and established local and international artists. Artists’ films will be presented between 8pm-Midnight from 26th July–3rd August in a range of windows along London Road between Charlotte Street and Templeton Street. Artists films presented include the premire Scottish screenings of ‘BMX Channel’ by Shaun Gladwell and ‘One of Many, One’ by Cheryl Pope. The programme also includes new work by Luca George, a recent graduate of Glasgow School of Art, and works from Sacha Airlie, Hans Peter Aucken Beck, Roderick Buchanan,

Criodhna Costello, Jacqueline Donachie, Patrick Jamieson, Torsten Lauschemann, Jane Topping and David Sherry. Content generated from within the local community will also be present in the form of a stop motion animation which documents the history of the Barras Calton between 19502014. This video artwork was made in collaboration between Pidgin Perfect and a group of participants, aged 11-13, from Peek Projects. Saturday 26.07.2014 - Sunday 27.07.2014 Inflatable sculptures by Iain Kettles will be presented at four key locations across the Barras Calton between 12-6pm on the opening weekend of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

‘Bicycle Lock’ by Iain Kettles (b. 1966, Scotland, UK) Image courtesy of the artist and Patricia Fleming Projects

HOUSING BOSS WINS LEADERSHIP ACCLAIM TWO of the UK’s top business organisations have recognised the leadership of Wheatley Group Chief Executive Martin Armstrong. Mr Armstrong was named “Leader of the Year” at the inaugural Investors in People (IiP) awards in London. IiP is the UK’s leading accreditation for business improvement through people management. Wheatley, Scotland’s largest housing, care and regeneration organisation, is the parent company of Glasgow Housing Association, one of the UK’s largest social landlords. The IiP judges praised Mr Armstrong’s “strong leadership” and described GHA as “an absolute stand out organisation against an incredibly strong group of winners.” Last month Martin, who is also Chief Executive of GHA, was named ‘Social Enterprise Entrepreneur of the Year’ in the recent Ernst and Young Scotland Entrepreneur of the Year awards.

The judges said they were “blown away” by his achievements, particularly the success of his ThinkYes behavioural-change programme for staff. Martin will now go forward to the UK Entrepreneur of the Year awards later this year. GHA Chair Gordon Sloan said: “These awards are testimony to Martin’s passion, commitment and inspirational leadership, which has transformed GHA into one of the best performing public-sector

organisations in the country.” Last year, Mr Armstrong, who became Wheatley Group Chief Executive in 2012, received the Quality Scotland Leadership Award. He is the only executive to have been instrumental in helping two organisations to achieve Quality Scotland’s Scottish Award for Business Excellence. West Lothian Council’s Housing Services won the title five year ago under Martin’s stewardship and GHA lifted it in 2011.

Saltire award for local teen ANDREW Crosbie, 18, from Glasgow has been given a Saltire Award for his charitable endeavours with Glasgow based charity, Cancer Support Scotland. The Saltire Awards recognise Scots aged 12-25 who volunteer their time in partnership with charitable organisations. Andrew has become a valuable member of the Cancer Support Scotland voluntary fundraising team and having only just celebrated his 18th birthday, he has clocked a milestone 200 hours of service. A former student of Bannerman High School, Andrew is currently working towards a modern apprenticeship in business and administration through the SQA. He chose to volunteer with Cancer Support Scotland following a cancer diagnosis in his family. Based on the Gartnavel Hospital campus, Cancer Support Scotland provides emotional and practical support for people affected by cancer. Those living with the illness, as well as family and friends, are offered complementary therapies and one-to-one talking therapy sessions to help them deal with the effects of cancer. When asked about volunteering at Cancer Support Scotland Andrew said: “It is great to know that the hard work I put in helps them to raise funds for the vital services they provide.” “I have gained valuable experience and confidence from being part of a successful fundraising team.” To find out more about how you could join the Cancer Support Scotland team, visit www. cancersupportscotland.org, email fundraising@cancersupportscotland.org, or call 0141 337 8199

“Ruchill Challenge” Project hailed a great success

A LINK-UP between Maryhill Housing Association and the charity Action for Children Scotland is providing a helping hand to young people. The two organisations came together to provide them with valuable work experience in Ruchill where the Association has many of its homes. Known as the “Ruchill Challenge” Project, it helps improve the young people’s employability skills as well as benefiting the local environment. It also has the added benefit of allowing those involved to work towards an SQA qualification. The young people – aged between 16 and 24 - undertook a number of community challenges within Ruchill in North Glasgow including landscaping, painting & decorating and environmental skills. Throughout the 10 week long project the young people were supervised and supported by Action for Children staff.

There were significant community benefits to the work including project painting close entrances, covering over the graffiti and tackling overgrown gardens. Five of the eight who took part are now moving on to obtain further experience of work with Forestry activities in Drumchapel. This is the second time the Association has teamed up with the charity in a similar initiative. Previoiusly, a different group of young people tackled landscaping work in Maryhill near blocks of flats with their work receiving much praise. Ruth Adam, Project Manager at Maryhill Housing Association said: “We’re delighted to be working with Action of Children in such a worthwhile Project which also has significant benefits for the community. We’re looking at ways we can work together again.”

Alison’s shot at Commonwealth success TOP shot put athlete Alison Rodger is hoping for homecoming glory as she takes part in the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games next week. Alison has overcome an injury which blighted her Olympic potential to take her place in the Scotland team. Alison, 29, is originally from Glasgow and is now based in Leicester. She balances her athletic commitments with working full time at Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, as HR administrator. Starting her competitive athletic career aged eight, Alison first competed in heptathlon. An ankle injury at 15 spurred her to focus on her strongest event; shot put. After six weeks of specialising in the discipline she scooped her first Scottish age group medal and hasn’t looked

back. With a rigorous training regime, she had been on track for London 2012 Olympic trials but a bad knee injury two weeks before the British Championships left her on the sidelines. After six months out, Alison has been back in the throwing circle with high aims for the Commonwealth Games in her hometown. “My goal at the start of the season was to quality for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and now I have made it into the Scotland line up I aim to perform to the best of my ability in front of my home crowd and hopefully qualify for the final. “It has been a tough undertaking to get here, with twoand-a-half hours training six days a week. What I particularly enjoy about shot put is the complexity of skill involved.

It is a very technical event, perhaps despite perception, and there are always elements of your throw to improve on. I constantly try to better myself every day. It has been challenging to fit this in with my full time job, but Intertek has been very supportive of my athletic ambitions. There won’t be a lot of time to catch my breath after the Games as I’m onto the Scottish Championships in August!” Sponsored by her employer Intertek, Alison’s co-workers will be cheering her on as she takes to the field in Glasgow. Gary Mawston, Managing Director of Intertek Leicester, said: “All of Alison’s colleagues in Leicester are behind her and we look forward to cheering her on at the Commonwealth Games. We are proud to support Alison and wish her all the best at the event.”

GENN COMMONWEALTH BRINGS WHISKY INDUSTRY BOOST ALMOST a fifth - 19 per cent - of Scotch whisky exports go to Commonwealth countries, new figures reveal. Last year, exports to the Commonwealth were up 1 per cent on 2012 to £793 million, from a global total of £4.3 billion, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). Singapore is the largest market in the Commonwealth for Scotch whisky with exports of £330 million last year, followed by South Africa with exports of £163 million, Australia at £84 million and India with £69 million. Economic growth and increasing disposable incomes mean new markets are also emerging in parts of Africa, the SWA said. Exports to Nigeria rose 43 per cent to almost £14 million last year, making it the seventh biggest market in the Commonwealth. David Frost, Scotch Whisky Association chief executive, said: “In many Commonwealth countries, Scotch whisky has been popular for years. “As economies in other countries develop, young, professional consumers are developing a taste for Scotch whisky which they rightly regard as an aspirational drink of quality.”

LOCAL CHURCH GETS READY TO WELCOME THE COMMONWEALTH THE members of Bridgeton St Francis-in-the-East Church of Scotland are preparing to celebrate the 2014 Commonwealth Games taking place on their doorstep. Their church hall, which is on Queen Mary Street, just a 5-minute walk along London Road from the Arena, Velodrome and the Athletes’ Village, is to be the venue for ‘Welcome to the Commonwealth’ on Sunday 27 July, an event which will be the centrepiece of a special day of activities within the community. Reverend Howard Hudson has been the minister at Bridgeton St Francis-in-the-East for more than 30 years and in common with his parishioners, is excited that so many important aspects of the Commonwealth Games are coming to this corner of Glasgow.” He said: “We all knew the Games would mean so much for the city, but the impact on us here in Bridgeton and Dalmarnock has been extraordinary in so many ways.” “The congregation wanted to commemorate the Games and at the same time try and make a connection and link with the many visitors from such diverse cultures who are going to be in our community. We got together with our friends at Clyde Gateway and we came up with ‘Welcome to the Commonwealth’ as an opportu-

nity to bring together people who have lived all their lives here in the east end with those who are living here for a short time while the Games are taking place.” “The idea behind the event is that local people and visitors can enjoy one another’s company over tea, coffee, soft drinks and sandwiches in a setting and location which is friendly, relaxed and informal. It is open to absolutely everyone regardless of their faith or beliefs and is intended to be a simple but enjoyable celebration of this tremendous sporting event as well as an opportunity for the community to feel very much part of it.” Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said:

“Howard Hudson and the congregation at Bridgeton St Francis-in-the-East gave Clyde Gateway a fantastically warm and friendly welcome when we were set up some six years ago and it is very fitting that we have been able to assist them with their efforts to give a similar welcome to the Commonwealth Games.” The ‘Welcome to the Commonwealth’ event will begin at 12.15pm within the church hall on the ground floor of the Queen Mary Street building which dates back to 1873, but the church upstairs will be the venue for two special services with a Commonwealth theme, taking place on the same day at 11am and 6.30pm, to which all are invited to attend.

Pensions more affordable with independence RESPONDING to last week’s paper on pensions published by the No Campaign, Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow, noted that the greatest threat to people’s pensions and benefits are the Tory Government’s reforms, which are broadly supported by Labour. Bob said: “It’s quite rich for a UK government which is in the process of dismantling the welfare state to cast aspersions on an independent Scotland’s ability to assist its most vulnerable people. “Even the DWP have confirmed that pensions will continue to be paid after independence. In fact, because of the lower life expectancy in Scotland, Scottish pensioners may very well be able to avoid the higher retirement age of 67 planned by the UK Government - but only with a Yes vote. Combined with the Scottish Government’s triple-lock guarantee, which ensures that pensions will be increased annually by at least the value of inflation, independence is the best future for our pensioners. “Over the last five years, Scot-

land generated around £800 per head more in taxes than the rest of the UK, and has done so with comparable numbers for 33 years now. This means that allocating funds to welfare programmes, including pensions, is more affordable for us as an independent country than it is for us as part of the UK. “It’s shocking to hear Labour side with the Tories on pensions, describing the UK welfare system as ‘secure’ when £6 billion is to be cut from the programme. These cuts will have a particular impact on women, children, the disabled and poorer pensioners. The Child Poverty Action Group has forecast that 100,000 more children could be in poverty by the year 2020 because of the cuts. Even Labour’s Shadow Scottish Secretary has called these cuts ‘brutal’, stating that they’ll result in ‘misery’ for many Scots. “This is only the latest issue on which the UK government’s actions totally contradict their claims as part of the No campaign.”

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ng2 Cleaning up in Sauchiehall Street BUSINESSES in one of Glasgow’s most famous streets are receiving a freshen up thanks to social enterprise company ng2 whose teams have been employed by Glasgow City Council to paint and jet wash shop fronts, bars and restaurants.

Premises benefitting from the work include Subway, The Noodle Bar, O’Neils, The Hall, Indian Gallery, Nana Kusa, The Variety, Nico’s, NY Slice, The Hengler’s Circus, Centre for Contemporary Arts, Bagel Mania, Kama Sufra, O2 ABC, Café Antipasti, Cocktail and Burger, Wok to Walk, Yokoso, Yates, Vanilla Black and The Driftwood. Team Supervisor for ng2 Robert Readie said: “We have been helping businesses in Sauchiehall Street by painting and jet washing the exteriors of their premises so they have a fresh look in time for the Commonwealth Games.” Leader of Glasgow City Council Gordon Matheson is delighted with the work ng2 are doing and said: “Its vital that an iconic street such as Sauchiehall Street looks its best at all times but especially during the Commonwealth

Games. Partnerships like this one with ng2 support our City Centre Strategy to ensure that local businesses and visitors to the city enjoy a welcoming environment.” Neil Douglas, owner of Café Antipasti said: “The team from ng2 are polite and courteous and are doing a really good job.” Chairperson of ng2 Margaret Thomson said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Glasgow City Council to give a fresh look to such a high profile street and hope to carry out more of this type of work in future.” Businesses wishing to find out more or receive a quote can contact ng2 on 0141 630 4252 or e-mail info@ng2works.com

ng homes Take Part in African Challenge Scotland AFRICAN Challenge Scotland, a voluntary organisation run by Africans living in north Glasgow, held a multicultural community sports event in the build-up to Glasgow 2014 which was supported by ng homes. The event took place at Glasgow Club Holyrood Sports Centre and more than a dozen teams from across the UK visited the city with almost 200 footballers and handballers taking part. In total, around 500 Africans visited the city over the weekend from diaspora communities across Scotland and the UK. The football teams included Cali thistle, TSK, Cali Coach, Glasgow Afghan United, Eritrean Team 1, Gamsca, Malawi Team, Shawbridges Lions, Zim FC, Youth Manchester Cameroonian Association, Afro Scot, African Challenge Scotland Team, Eritrean Team 2. Youth were represented by teams from Cali Thistle and the African Challenge Scotland youth team. Womens Handball teams were Poala Leeds and African Challenge Scotland

Chairperson of ng homes, John Fury, said: “We were delighted to partner with African Challenge Scotland on this event and promote ng homes sporting activities to Glasgow’s African community. We wish African Challenge Scotland well and look forward to seeing more events like this in the North of the city”

from across Scotland and with two African diaspora teams also competing from England it was a hugely successful event. I look forward to working with African Challenge Scotland and partners such as ng homes and Glasgow Life to make this wonderful event an annual fixture which goes from strength to strength”

The event was supported by Awards for All, Big Lottery, ng homes, Glasgow Life, CRER, Palm Africa, Next Step Initiative, Glasgow City Building, Lebara, The Calabash Restaurant, SCVO, Stories 4 Change, Roshni, GHA and Govan Integration Network.

Ronier Cladel Deumeni, African Challenge Scotland President said: “African Challenge Scotland would like to say a big thank you to all that participated over the weekend in the various events. This is the first event organised by African Challenge Scotland and we believe that with the success of this particular sporting event that it could be an annual event. This event brought the community together and it helps build capacity amongst the participants, promote sport within the Ethnic Minorities community and celebrate the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2014. It was great to see so many people from so many parts of Africa, Britain and Europe taking part in such a friendly and positive event in Glasgow. It also provided an opportunity to make new contacts and to renew old acquaintances.

Bob Doris, who is also convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Racial Equality, said: “The African Challenge Scotland event was a huge success and I was privileged to be involved in helping support a day of sporting activities. The event was also about bringing people from different communities together and having fun. The evening gala dinner gave us a real flavour of African culture, Glasgow style with excellent food and entertainment. It was great to have teams

Cali Thistle were the winners of the youth competition, the womens handball was won by African Challenge Scotland and the men’s football tournament was won by Manchester Cameroonian Association Also taking part were Glasgow Councillors and Members of the Scottish Parliament who played a friendly football match against Ethnic Minorities Veterans which finished all square at 1-1 ng homes provided taster sessions in Tennis and also brought along their energy bike challenge which proved popular with youngsters having to pedal as fast as they can for as long as possible in order to generate enough energy to switch a light on.

Springburn (East)

Email: info@nghomes.net

Ned Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse Street Springburn, Glasgow. G21 4LS Tel 0141 560 6000 Fax 0141 560 6005

Website: www.nghomes.net @ng_homes

ng homes is a trading name of North Glasgow Housing Association

Possilpark (West) Saracen House, 139 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow, G22 5AZ Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

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BARROWLAND PARK Gateway to the East End

AS the Commonwealth Games get underway, the city is starting to see some of the aesthetic changes taking shape, a lick of paint here, a flower box there are some of the more minor changes being made to make the city just that bit more colourful and vibrant to those visiting for the first time, but there are many other more dramatic changes taking place in and

around Glasgow’s East End. One such change is the brand new Barrowlands Park. Situated on the formerly derelict space boxed in by London Road, Saltmarket, Moir Road and Gallowgate, and its compact but very unique and modern design contrast well with the more familiar sandstone architecture that surrounds it. Having opened on Saturday

the 19th of July in time for the opening of the games, its opening was celebrated with a mix of live music and street food. The temporary green space will see plenty of action through the duration of the games, and will act as a gateway to the East End for pedestrians travelling from the City Centre. It also helped play host to a

series of theatre performances known collectively as The Tin Forest. Directed by the National Theater of Scotland and hosted at the park and at other hotspots such as the Riverside Museum and the Tradestone Footbridge before culminating in a special performance at the South Rotunda on the 23rd of July. The park hosted two sepa-

rate performances on the 21st and 22nd which proved very popular. Returning to the aesthetics of the park, what makes it so special is its homage to Glasgow’s famous Barrowlands Ballroom, a hallowed ground that has played host to thousands of acts over the years. This has been documented along the park’s main walkway made up of names and

dates of every act to grace the ballroom stage between 1983 and 2013 - creating a unique feature known as The Album Pathway due to its resemblance to a typical vinyl record collection. The Pathway is 100m long and 3m wide and was created by Glasgow School of Artt Alumni Jim Lambie, who was shortlisted for The Turner Prize in 2005

THE SARACEN HEAD - GLASGOW’S FAMOUS PUB

ANGUS Ross, whose family had owned the Saracen’s Head Pub for generations, has made the claim that that the original site of the Church of St. Mungo, known as Little St Mungo, was the site of the present-day pub and not where Glasgow Cathedral is situated. The Cathedral came later. The Molendinar Burn, which had been the main water supply of mediaeval Glasgow, ran adjacent to both sites, but is now a sewer. Angus Ross further maintained that the remains of St Mungo, Glasgow’s patron Saint, were removed from Little St Mungo Church to be re-interred in Glasgow Cathedral, which became known as Greater St Mungo Church. In other words, the history of Glasgow had its origins on the site where the pub now stands! Much of the intervening history is very obscure. After the Reformation the Little St Mungo Church became

the property of Donald Cunningham of Aikenbar and Marion Lyon, his wife. It was subsequently purchased by the Magistrates in 1593 on the condition that the chapel house and yard be maintained as a hospital for the poor, which it was, being converted into a hospital for lepers. Robert Tennent, who owned the White Heart Hotel, acquired the graveyard of Little St Mungo in 1754, and was granted a charter to build a new inn. He was also granted permission to use the stones from the old “Bishop’s Palace” (which had stood on the current site of the St Mungo Museum in Cathedral Square) in the construction of the inn, which was opened in 1755. The Old Gallowgate Port, which was the east gate into the town of Glasgow, was demolished to make way for the inn. At the time of opening it was said to be the finest inn in Glasgow, with 36 rooms, each with

its own fireplace, and stabling for 60 horses. Robert Tennent claimed that all the beds were very clean and “free from bugs”! It had a lengthy frontage along the Gallowgate at that time. A pump well was situated in the yard which may have originally been created for the use of the little St Mungo Chapel. Many tourists today try to find this well without realizing that the site of the current pub is at least a block east of the original site of the inn. The Saracen’s Head Inn became one of the most spacious and elegant in Scotland. It was the ‘5 star hotel’ of its day. Daughters of Merchants and of the Gentry were sent here for lessons in the culinary arts, each paying the head chef 5 shillings in order to learn how to cook. A ball-room was a feature of the inn and for 50 years was used as a place of worship by various sects, after which it became a reading school. In 1791 William Miller of Slatefield purchased the Inn because Tennent was rumoured to have gone bankrupt. Miller converted it to shops and houses; he also added an extension to the east, on the site of which the current pub may have been built around the turn of the 20th century, now incorporated into a tenement building, and consequently some distance east of the original inn. Throughout its long history there have been many famous visitors who have used the comforts of the Inn.

On their tour of the Highlands, Dr Samuel Johnston and James Boswell stayed here in 1773. Robert Burns on his stay here wrote a poem which has been in the possession of the pub for generations, but has now disappeared: only a copy is on display. In 1803 William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy arrived, along with Samuel Coleridge and spent two nights here. In more recent times Billy Connolly, William McIllvanney, and Ian Rankin have savoured the delights of this pub which has not changed much in character since Victorian times, and therein lies its charm. It has been used in numerous “Taggart” episodes; and featured in such films as “Sunshine in Leith”, “The Angel’s Share”, and in June of this year a scene from “The Legend of Barney Thompson”, starring Robert Carlisle and Ray Winstone, was shot here. The Saracen’s Head is not just a pub, it is a museum. There are all sorts of strange, weird and wonderful artefacts on display which seem to have little coherent meaning in the context of a pub: swords, daggers, Jacobite pistols, golf clubs, shark’s teeth, sawfish jaw, a poem by Robbie Burns written in his own hand, and the most curious of all the skull of Maggie Wall, who was burnt at the stake as a witch in the village of Dunning, Perthshire, in 1657. One of the most missed landlords of the pub was Angus Ross whose family had owned it for over a century.

He had a concern for the more elderly of his clientele and looked after their welfare by making sure they had a hearty meal. Good home-cooked food such as mince and tatties, or soup and bread or hotpot etc., was served to them each evening for decades. The current landlady is Anne McGuigan who has been at the helm, so to speak, for the past decade, although she had associations with the pub for a few years prior to that. She is renowned for her charity work, especially on behalf of the Marie Curie Cancer Care. She has managed to raise funding for such items as a blood pressure monitor, pressure relieving mattress, and a bladder scanner machine for the Glasgow Hospice. The fund-raising is a collaborative effort and she wants to express her gratitude to her family, friends, and everybody who has assisted her in raising

this financial support. Within this Hospice she has been able to secure a room for family and friends known as ‘Frankie’s Den’ in tribute to both her son Frankie who died in 2011of brain cancer aged 36, and also her husband Frank, who died in the same year. They were both looked after by the caring staff at that Hospice. Frankie was a singer and used to give free concerts at the pub on Sundays between 4 and 11pm. Before his untimely passing he managed to complete a CD called ‘Francis McGuigan – Savage’; all the proceeds from which are going to the Marie Curie Cancer Care, and is available at the pub. This CD is a piece of Glasgow history for it features a number of the songs he sang at Glasgow’s most historic and atmospheric pub – the “Sarry Heid”, as it is referred to by Glaswegians.

Tenants impressed as new GHA homes take shape in Barmulloch

TENANTS joined local elected members to check up on the progress of new GHA homes being built in Barmulloch. A total of 157 new homes are being built on the site of the former Barmulloch Primary School. Tenants joined Paul Martin MSP and Councillor Gerry Leonard, GHA staff, representatives from the city council and the Scottish Government and contractors CCG to see for themselves how the work is progressing. Barmulloch is one of the areas identified as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G), a partnership between GHA, Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government. The £13.9m development is a mix of one and two-bedroom flats, and two, three and four-bedroom houses. Ten of the homes will be built to wheelchair standard and the development also features an amenity block for tenants who need an extra bit of support. GHA tenant Bernadette Hewitt, who is also Chair of GHA’s local committee in the area, said: “It’s very exciting to see these new homes take shape and I know they will be a real boost to the area. “I’m sure our tenants are going to enjoy living in these modern, stylish, energy-efficient homes.”

The new homes will help provide modern places to live for GHA tenants whose homes have been earmarked for demolition as part of the regeneration of the city. The homes are being built by contractor CCG, with part funding by the Scottish Government. Work on the new homes began in February and the first homes should be complete by the end of the year. Bailie Liz Cameron, Chair of the TCG Board, said: “It’s great to see the building of these new homes in Barmulloch going so well. “I am sure that the people living in them will really enjoy these high-quality flats and houses. This development mirrors the great work going on across the city through the Transforming Communities: Glasgow programme.” The homes are the latest stage in the regeneration of Red Road/Barmulloch carried out by GHA, which is part of Wheatley Group, and its partners. In June 2009, tenants in the north of the city celebrated the completion of 239 new homes in Barmulloch, Mansel Street and Avonspark Street. Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: “I welcome the progress being made in the construction of these new affordable homes in Barmulloch which, when completed, will provide comfortable, modern, and ener-

gy efficient accommodation for GHA tenants. “The Scottish Government is committed to increasing the supply of affordable homes in Scotland, and I am delighted to say we are well on track to deliver our target of 30,000 affordable homes during the lifetime of this Parliament.” The community is also benefiting from jobs and training opportunities as a result of the work. CCG, as part of its contract with GHA, will provide training and employment opportunities for local people. Calum Murray, Director, CCG (Scotland) Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be working with GHA and partners to support the regeneration of Barmulloch

with the construction of 157 homes for the local community. “Through our community benefit and apprenticeship programme, CCG is committed to delivering tangible benefits to the local community in Barmulloch with a number of employment and training opportunities available for local people.” Work is well underway on 141 new GHA homes in Sighthill and another 100 in North Toryglen, while work has also started on 100 new homes in Roystonhill, and on 116 new homes in Scotstoun in the West of Glasgow. A further 98 homes at the Commonwealth Games Village in Dalmarnock will be for GHA tenants.

highlight the grit and determination shown by all the Commonwealth athletes. “It is a beast that has inspired our people since before the first written word. I hope it inspires all the athletes in the village.” Although known across the globe as the Loch Ness Monster, the creature is also known locally by its Gaelic name “Each Uisge” or “water horse”. Stuart has inscribed this name

Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games ephemeral material IF you are being bombarded with 2014 Commonwealth Games material and you’d prefer it went to a good home, the Mitchell Library wants to hear from you. The Mitchell Library wants to collect an original copy of every published leaflet, poster, flyer, localised sign, themed restaurant menu, invitation to local meeting and other ephemera from the 2014 Commonwealth Games, as well as unpublished materials like personal papers and letters. As you move around the city over the next couple of months, please collect a copy of all the material associated with the Commonwealth Games you see drop through your letterbox, stuck to your windscreen, or in shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, tourist attractions and beyond. In the words of Maurice Rickards, founder of the Ephemera Society, we want to collect “the minor transient documents of everyday life” to provide a snapshot of what the 2014 Commonwealth Games

meant for all the people of Glasgow. The collection will help reflect the mood of the city in a way that more formal records cannot. It will allow future generations to look back and see what we did, highlighting the impact the Games had on individuals, on local businesses and communities too. You can donate your items at The Mitchell Library or any of our community libraries across the city. Donations will be accepted from 30 June - 30 August 2014. In return you will receive a message of thanks and entry into a prize draw* to win a £50 voucher for Waterstones book store. More importantly, you will have contributed to an important collection which gives future generations a unique insight into Glasgow’s social and cultural history using materials you might otherwise have glanced at once and then thrown away.

BIG BIG SING AT GLASGOW GREEN

NESSIE WELCOMES ATHLETES TO VILLAGE

THE Loch Ness Monster is ready and waiting to welcome 6,500 athletes and officials to the place they’ll call home during the Commonwealth Games. The imposing sculpture which now has pride of place outdoors in the heart of the Athletes’ Village - was commissioned by Glasgow 2014 and crafted by Speyside sculptor Stuart Murdoch. And the monster, who will greet athletes from 71 different nations and territories, is every inch as Scottish as the legend of ‘Nessie’ itself. Stuart has used Caithness Stone; Scots Elm; grey stone from the North-east of Scotland and Clashach Sandstone from Moray to create the 3metre high and 9metre long sculpture. The work of art, which incorporates a bench, is intended to create a centerpiece for the Village in Dalmarnock. Sculptor Stuart Murdoch said: “I was honoured to be asked to work with Glasgow 2014 and to produce this sculpture. The Loch Ness Monster is recognised globally as an icon of this country and in this work I wanted to represent the nation’s mythology, creativity, ancient history, as well as to

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on parts of the sculpture in “Ogham Script”, the ‘alphabet’ of the Pictish people. Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, David Grevemberg, said: “The Loch Ness Monster is such a well-known Scottish legend and this striking sculpture will be part of a warm Scottish welcome for the athletes. It not only reflects part of Scotland’s heritage but also showcases to an international audience some of the best of

the country’s natural materials.” Glasgow 2014 Head of Village Operations, Tony Sainsbury, said: “The monster sculpture is a fantastic addition to the Village representing as it does Scottish folklore. Nessie follows in the tradition of sculptures in recent Athletes’ Villages and it is sure to become the photo, selfie and upload hit of our Village.”

BIG Big Sing is a UK-wide celebration of singing, encouraging the nation to start enjoying the health and well-being benefits of singing. Following a full programme of events, workshops and flashmob choirs across the UK during 2014, Big Big Sing invites everyone, no matter their age or ability, to join in a spectacular free day of singing and fun at the Big Big BIG Sing at Glasgow Green Live Zone on Sunday 27th July from 8am to 9pm, as part of Festival 2014. On the same day that the Glasgow 2014 Marathon starts and finishes at Glasgow Green, Big Big Sing will be rousing the whole Live Zone with a host of singing activities, `Come and Try´ sessions, entertainment and performances for everyone. At locations across the Green, there will be a Pied Piper enchanting the kids with songs and rhymes; a Musicals Marathon where you can join in singing favourite hits from the musicals; `Come and Try´ sessions teaching singing in different styles, including Gaelic mouth music, Indian singing and beatboxing; a tea song and dance for those who prefer a more sedate tempo; and Song Stages featuring performances by choirs from across the country. As well as the packed pro-

gramme of events, a cast of roaming performers - including Valkyries and a singing horse - will be entertaining kids and adults alike throughout the Green all day. At 3.30pm, Big Big BIG Sing will take to the main stage and really get the party going, bringing the crowd together as one enormous choir to perform popular classics and learn songs from Big Big Sing´s Big Big Commonwealth Songbook, a collection of great songs from across the globe. BIG BIG SING - HOW TO GET INVOLVED The Big Big Sing´s online singing portal - www.bigbigsing.org - provides a wealth of materials and information for those looking to take up singing. The site includes a searchable database of choirs, the Big Big Commonwealth Songbook with lots of learning and teaching resources, a guide on how to set up your own choir, a playlist of performances by choirs and singers from around the Commonwealth and details on all Big Big Sing events. For further details on everything that´s happening at the Big Big BIG Sing Day at Glasgow Green Live Zone on Sunday 27th July visit www. bigbigsing.org and keep up-todate with Big Big Sing on Facebook and Twitter.

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Young people from across Scotland arrive to welcome their second teams to the Games YOUNG people from every corner of Scotland have arrived in Glasgow to cheer on athletes from the Bahamas to Bangladesh and from Malta to Mozambique. The 71 representatives from each of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas may fly a flag for their home nation during the 11 days of sporting action - but they will also be supporting their adopted second team. Part of the Support a 2nd Team programme, the young people, aged 16 to 24, will take part in the Opening Ceremony at Celtic Park on July 23, helping provide a welcome to their second teams. They will also participate in rehearsals in the run-up to the ceremony. The Support a 2nd Team programme has linked all 32 of Scotland’s local authorities with the 71 nations and territories of the Commonwealth. It has encouraged local people and communities to engage with the cultures of the Commonwealth and develop links with their nations and territories. The programme has provided opportunities, as part of the wider Games Legacy, for schools, community, sports and voluntary groups to create partnerships with their nations and territories and to support them through their journey to the Games and beyond. The programme is led by sportscotland in conjunction with Glasgow 2014 and the Scottish Government and is supported by Glasgow City

Council and other partners. Twelve teachers from Glasgow schools are giving up their time to support the young people during their time in the city. The Support a 2nd Team programme has already seen a range of activities delivered through the Active Schools network the length and breadth of Scotland from a virtual flashmob haka in Edinburgh to a mascot competition linking Shetland and Brunei. David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, said: “It is great that through the Support a 2nd Team programme, children and young people from all over Scotland can be part of the Opening Ceremony for Glasgow 2014 and help us extend a hand of welcome from the whole of Scotland to the teams com-

peting in Glasgow.” Louise Martin CBE, Chair of sportscotland, said: “What a fantastic opportunity for these young people to be part of the celebrations welcoming the Commonwealth to Scotland. We are delighted that Support a 2nd Team has inspired so many people to engage in cultural, educational and sporting programmes celebrating the diversity of the competing nations and developing even stronger links between Scotland and the wider Commonwealth family.” Cabinet Secretary for Commonwealth Games and Sport Shona Robson said: “It’s a tremendous moment for the young people performing at the opening ceremony to help welcome the world to Scotland.

The Support a Second Team project, which twins all 71 Commonwealth nations and territories with a local authority in Scotland, brings the Games closer to all our communities and forges links across continents which will endure as a lasting legacy beyond the Games.” Councillor Stephen Curran, Glasgow City Council’s Executive Member for Education and Young People, said: “Our young people and education staff in schools across the city have used a variety of imaginative ways to create an exciting build-up in the run up to the games. “This is yet another opportunity for Glasgow teachers to be a part of the Glasgow 2014 legacy and what an incredible opportunity to support the Scottish young people as they arrive in the city to cheer on and support not only Team Scotland but the adopted second teams.” The 32 local authorities and their second teams are: Aberdeen: Cameroon, Solomon Islands, Aberdeenshire: Mozambique, Antigua, Angus: Anguilla Gibraltar, Maldives, Argyll & Bute: Swaziland, Cyprus, Clackmannanshire: Lesotho, St Kitts & Nevis, Dumfries & Galloway: Grenada, Northern Ireland, Dundee City: South Africa, Belize, East Ayrshire: British Virgin Islands, Australia, East Dunbartonshire: Namibia, Jamaica, Norfolk Island, East Lothian: Rwanda, Guernsey, Samoa, East Renfrewshire: India, Tuvalu, Edinburgh: Guyana, New Zealand, Eile-

an Siar (Western Isles): St Vincent & The Grenadines, Wales, Falkirk: The Gambia, Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Fife: Malawi, Falkland Islands, Glasgow City: Fiji, Scotland and as a Games Partner, Glasgow City Council is also supporting all guests, Highland: Barbados, Canada, Inverclyde: Mauritius, Dominica, Niue, Midlothian: Seychelles, Pakistan, Moray: Botswana, Montserrat, North Ayrshire: Nigeria, St Helena, North Lanarkshire: Malaysia, Cook Islands, Orkney Islands: Tanzania, Cayman Islands, Perth & Kinross: St Lucia, Bangladesh, Renfrewshire: Kenya, Papua New Guinea, Scottish Borders: England, Tonga, Shetland Islands: Jersey, Brunei Darussalam, South Ayrshire: Ghana, Kiribati, South Lanarkshire: Sierra Leone, Bermuda, Sri Lanka, Stirling: Zambia Malta, Vanuatu, West Dunbartonshire: Uganda, Isle of Man, West Lothian: Turks & Caicos, Singapore Nauru.

“Sod the residents: the important people are in the athletes’ village!” THAT was a comment by a frustrated resident of Dalmarnock who felt that the welfare of his fellow residents had been deliberately overlooked during the many long years on the run-up to the Commonwealth Games making him feel imprisoned in his own district. In order to appreciate the situation of the folk living in Dalmarnock one must first understand the current geography that has now been imposed on the area. The housing scheme is bounded by three main arteries: Springfield Road on the east, Dalmarnock Road on the south, and the new Clyde Gateway on the west. On the north is the Emirates Arena/Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome Complex. Springfield Road has security barriers manned by security forces at both the London Road and the Dalmarnock Road ends and is therefore closed to all through traffic except that for the Commonwealth Games such as the buses that will transport the athletes to and from the Games Village. There is no access to the Dalmarnock housing scheme from Dalmarnock Road itself.

As you can perceive the scheme is totally enclosed and surrounded. The only access in and out is via a narrow slip road on to the south-heading carriageway of the Clyde Gateway, crossing a cycle lane. Being a dual carriageway, one cannot turn right to head north. Similarly, when one is heading north on the Clyde Gateway, one cannot turn right into this slip road in order to gain entry into the scheme. One would have to use local knowledge in order to gain access to this poorly planned slip road. As local resident John Rankin put it in typical Glaswegian: “It’s a long way to go for a short cut!” He is fortunate in that he has his own transport, unlike many of his neighbours. He has given up going to Parkhead Forge to do his shopping and goes to Bridgeton instead. It’s a lot easier. Kathy McArthur, another local, highlighted the fact that the residents made complaints about not being able to get out of the scheme because the main arteries were now closed, and as a consequence had lost their

bus services. Their complaints resulted in a shuttle bus service being put into operation linking the scheme with Parkhead Forge, from where they could catch other bus services if they so desired. This service is vitally important because taxis cannot – or will not – enter the scheme. Before the advent of the shuttle service many residents were virtual prisoners, “like being in Barlinnie” as one resident put it. Their nearest store was a petrol station in Dalmarnock Road, which was too far to walk for some, but it only supplied newspapers or packets of crisps, etc, as well as fuel, that is until Dalmarnock Road became closed to traffic. Also certain grocery outlets, such as Farmfoods or Tesco, for example, will not make home deliveries to the scheme, which is why this shuttle bus link to the Parkhead Forge is so essential. Many do not go on a night out because they would not be able to come home due to the apparent reluctance of the taxi drivers to enter the scheme and the lack of proper bus services.

Some have lost touch with relatives who live outwith the area because of the difficulties of access. As regards the narrow slip road, Denise Rooney mentioned that because it crosses a cycle lane, and the fact that this access road looks very much as an afterthought, it would cause accidents and in fact a cyclist was knocked down on one occasion. She adds that kids were not able to play in the streets because of trucks driving through the scheme: it was like living in a building site for the past 5 years or so. The constant Police presence in the scheme makes her very anxious indeed. Shirley Speirs of Kinnear Road is also anxious about the constant police patrolling and their checks on car registration numbers, etc. She fears that when the Games are on she will not be able to go to work because of the high level of security and Games-related traffic. This was a common cause of speculation by a number of residents who are unsure if they can move about as freely as they would like to when the

Games are in full swing. Many do not understand why there should be this level of security – they feel like they are under military siege and being hemmed in. But at times the security can be taken a bit too far. Stewart Stevenson has a five year old autistic child called Lewis, and everything has to be done in a routine and at certain times otherwise this would cause Lewis to be distressed. For example at mealtimes the food has to be served in a certain order without variation and at the same time of day otherwise Lewis has difficulty in coping. It is also true of his daily routine, e.g. washing, dressing, daily exercise, such as going for walks. A routine had established itself during these walks which was a circuitous route taking in the Clyde Gateway, along London Road in front of the Emirates Arena/Velodrome complex and back via Springfield Road. It was during one of these walks that two security officers accused Lewis – a five year old – of being a terrorist! They thought he was up to no good because they had mis-

interpreted the gestures of this autistic child and thought his behaviour was strange and suspicious. This had been a regular walk: these security officers must have seen Stewart taking his son Lewis on numerous occasions in the past. Lewis’s exercise routine has therefore been re-adjusted with consequential problems. The security operation surrounding the Commonwealth Games, known as Project Servator, is costing around £90 million, and is more than three times over budget. It is the biggest security operation ever undertaken in Scotland by Police Scotland and includes 2400 members of the armed forces, many of whom are armed with rifles; around 65 officers from the Scottish Prison Service; and the services of 17 security firms; as well as thousands from Police Scotland. There are even flying restrictions over Glasgow with the threat of using “deadly force” if need be. This is being co-ordinated in a command and control centre at Govan operating on a 24-hours-a-day basis.

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‘Inspirational’ GHA scores UK business hat-trick SCOTLAND’S largest social landlord, Glasgow Housing Association, has scored a prestigious hat-trick of business-improvement awards, with UK judges describing GHA as “a stand-out organisation”. GHA, part of Wheatley Group, won “Large Employer of the Year” at the inaugural Investors in People (IiP) awards in London and went on to be named overall the top organisation in the 2014 awards. Wheatley Chief Executive Martin Armstrong was also named the UK’s “Leader of the Year”. Investors in People, in recognising best people-management practices, received over 500 entries from IiP-accredited businesses from all over the UK.

IiP Awards judge Jack Torrance said: “GHA demonstrates excellence in all areas and is an inspiration to us all. It is an absolute stand-out organisation.” He added: “GHA has focused on improving relations between employees, helping staff develop better approaches to customer service and giving staff more freedom to use their own judgement. “The changes implemented have clearly paid dividends, as shown by consistently increasing levels of both employee and customer satisfaction. GHA should be extremely proud of its achievement.” Martin Armstrong said: “These awards are recognition of the passion and commitment

GHA staff bring to their jobs, day in day out, as they do their bit to create ‘better homes and better lives’ for tenants across Glasgow.” GHA received IiP Gold accreditation in 2013 and won the 2012 Scottish Award for Business Excellence from Quality Scotland and was the only organisation in the country to achieve a five-star rating. Last year, GHA was awarded the “Leading with Vision, Inspiration and Integrity” prize by the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM). IiP is the UK’s leading accreditation for business improvement through people management, supporting businesses to innovate, improve and grow.

GEEZABREAK HELPING TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR EAST END FAMILIES

BRINGING up children can be a struggle, even at the best of times. Money and time can often be big factors for the average family, but sometimes in areas such as the East End of Glasgow, more insidious issues can create cracks in a family structure - alcohol abuse, drug abuse and violence can all hold a death grip, and in many cases this can lead to crises. One organisation that helps to alleviate some of the immense pressure felt by many East End families is Geeza Break. In case its name didn’t make this clear, Geeza Break is an organisation whose mission statement - in short - is to provide voluntary family support and flexible respite services for parents with children 0-16 years in order to help those affected by crises and addiction to find their feet. It’s true, there are certainly organisations similar to this operating in fairly close proximity, but one thing that makes Geeza Break stand out from the rest if the fact that it’s available

24/7 - the charity recognises that things can and will break down between more than just 9am and 5pm - people need their service round the clock, and this is something that Geeza Break are more than happy to provide. Doreen Paterson, a prominent member of Geeza Break is keen to reinforce this idea: “It’s a lifesaver for a lot of families, we’re unique, we’re flexible, we’re available at all times, not all crises take place Monday to Friday”. A member of staff for five years - Doreen formerly worked for an organisation that also worked with addiction and other social issues, but wished to turn her talents towards the children who are so often the hapless victims of such issues. “Many families in actual fact suffer from poverty, isolation from other members of their family, and tenancy issues”. As well as offering a regular care and a home sitter service for children, Geeza Break also runs a special “TOFFEE” club. Standing for Time Out For Families in the East End, this

Like us on Facebook AWARD WINNERS: GHA Chief Executive Martin Armstrong with the ‘Large Employer of the Year’ award, with colleagues Olga Clayton, Jackie Byers and Dorothy Christie. On the far left is comedian Hugh Dennis, and on the right is Awards judge Jack Torrance and Theresa McDermott, Assistant Director for Investors in People.

SPORT AND SHOPPING COLLIDE THIS SUMMER AT GLASGOW FORT

STRETCHING, stealth manoeuvres and heavy lifting will all be put to the test this summer at Glasgow Fort – and not just by shoppers updating their wardrobes. Glasgow Fort will host displays of local sporting talent. Shettleston Harriers will showcased their athletics skills for four days this weekend and encouraged shoppers to take part in sprinting, jumping and throwing a foam javelin. For the following two weekends, from Thursday to Sunday, there will be displays from GSB Judo Club and Hamilton Boxing Club.

There will also be public outdoor spin classes from the team at the park’s DW Sports Fitness. The next events run from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th July and Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August. Alex MacKay of Shettleston Harriers said: “This was a great opportunity for us to showcase the club and the talented members we have. Shoppers were able to see if they might be the next Usain Bolt, Laura Muir or Greg Rutherford by getting involved in some running, throwing and jumping.”

The events are part of Glasgow Fort’s Summer of Fun programme which has brought face painting, arts and crafts, a sand pit, children’s rides, balloon modelling and a play bus to the Park. Phil Goodman, Centre Manager at Glasgow Fort, said: “This is a very exciting summer in Glasgow and we wanted to bring some of that sporting spirit to Glasgow Fort. “With our other activities in full swing and the kind weather we have been having, there is already a great summer buzz at the Park. We are really excited about the sports clubs joining us and putting on some interactive fun for our shoppers.” Glasgow Fort, off Junction 10 at the M8, is home to leading brands such as Asda Living, Vue, Nando’s, Zara and Next. Development is currently underway for a flagship Marks & Spencer store and other outlets which will provide around 500 jobs.

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THERE’S NOTHING LABOUR ABOUT THE NATIONALISTS’ PLANS - BENN HILARY Benn MP, son of the late Tony Benn, has visited Paisley a day after his uncle wrote an emotional letter about Tony’s opposition to independence. Speaking during the visit in Paisley, Hilary Benn said: “I’ve come to Paisley today to play my part in the referendum. This is a choice for the people of Scotland, but I care deeply about it. “My grandmother - my dad’s mum - was born here in Paisley, and her grandfather was Provost of Paisley. Like so many people in other parts of the UK, losing Scotland would feel like losing part of who I am. It would be a wrench. I really hope that people

across Scotland choose to carry on working together on September 18th. “The SNP are trying to win over Labour voters. But there’s nothing Labour about their plans. I learned that from my dad. The socialism he campaigned for all his life was about solidarity. He was a passionate believer in standing together and supporting one another in struggle and difficulty, not pushing people apart. “To him, independence would not further the beliefs he fought for. That’s why he was clear that the Labour cause - and the Socialist cause - was best served by staying together.”

service provides care for primary school kids who require looking after during the main school holidays - Easter, Summer and the October week - meaning parents with full time jobs have a lot of pressure taken off them both financially and mentally. For five hours a day, the children who take part in this free service will be able to take part in a range of fun and educational daily activities, and will even have the opportunity to go on trips to the science centre and the beach, thus providing an intellectual and recreational outlet for the youngsters involved. Doreen concludes - “if anyone wishes to volunteer as a carer - and can offer a spare bedroom to help with care will be offered full training coupled with rigorous assessment in order to provide them with the skills they need to be a successful carer.” If you wish to to apply, or you want to get your child involved, check out the website at www.geezabreak.org.uk or phone on 0141 573 2900.

Gatorade to fuel athletes’ drive for medals at Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games GLASGOW 2014 last week announced Gatorade as the Official Sports Drink for the Commonwealth Games. Gatorade will provide non-carbonated sports drinks and drinks stations for the anticipated 4500 athletes competing at the Games. The company becomes the 46th Sponsor of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games which started on July 23. Gatorade was developed in the United States during the 1960s and came to the UK in 2008 with more than 40 years of sports fuel experience behind it. David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive, said: “We are pleased to welcome Gatorade to our Sponsor Family on the eve of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, the largest sporting and cultural event in Scotland’s history. “As an Organising Committee we pride ourselves on being athlete-centred and we are confident that the range of drink choices, which now includes Gatorade, will meet their needs.”

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Home Energy Checks Saving ng homes Tenants Money on Fuel Bills CUSTOMERS of ng homes are saving money on their energy bills thanks to Home Energy checks being carried out across North Glasgow.

Tenant Mr James Doyle had been struggling with high energy bills spending £30 per week on his pre-payment meter for a 2 bedroom multi storey flat in Springburn which had been externally insulated. Concerned with the increasing price of energy Mr Doyle wanted to know how he could save energy in his home and how he could access the “Warm Home Discount” which he had applied for. Although Mr Doyle had received confirmation that he’d been successful he found it a difficult and complicated process to access the funds.

Imtiaz also provided Mr Doyle with a Home Energy EGG which powers down his devices when he’s not using them, Mr Doyle said: “I find it difficult to get down to reach the sockets so I have my fire and my TV through the Energy EGG, it’s a lot easier having just one switch and at a height I can get to.” Advice was also given to Mr Doyle on energy saving light bulbs and how best to use his heating system at home. It is predicted that Mr Doyle will save £31.80 every year through utilising the 20W Energy saving bulbs which will also be a good carbon saving. Tenants interested in a free Home Energy Check should contact: John Watt, Energy Efficiency Officer on 0141 630 4252

After a call to his energy company met with little success Mr Doyle was beginning to get frustrated that he couldn’t access the discount that he was eligible to receive and as a result he used his heating sparingly last winter. Home Energy Advisor for ng2 Imtiaz Ahmed paid Mr Doyle a visit and after hearing of his frustrations contacted the HM Revenue and Customs and his energy supplier on his behalf to obtain a code which could be used on his pre-payment meter. Imtiaz said: “During my last visit to Mr Doyle to top up his meter we successfully accessed £135 from the “Warm Homes Discount”. Mr Doyle said: “I am delighted that Imtiaz got this sorted out for me and I would like to thank him for all his help. I have told a few neighbours about the home energy advice service and Imtiaz has arranged to visit them next.”

North Glasgow Volunteers Amongst Baton Bearers at Finish Line The Queens Baton reached the finish line at Springburn Park on Sunday with Multi-medal winning, seven-time Paralympian Michael McCreadie the final baton bearer. He won two bronze medals in lawn bowls at the 1976 Summer Paralympics and a silver in curling at the Winter Paralympics in 2006. Also carrying the Baton on the day were three young men from North Glasgow who regularly volunteer to help out at ng sports legacy events. Helping it on its journey through Springburn and Balornock were brothers Fraser and Richard Porter and Terry Marshall who were nominated along with thousands of people to be baton bearers. Fraser said: “Its been a great day and it was a privilege to be a part of such a unique occasion in Springburn.” Greg Cann, ng sports legacy co-ordinator said: It’s an honour for these guys to carry the baton and its recognition of the good work they do volunteering in the North Glasgow community.” Chairperson of ng homes John Fury said: “What a wonderful occasion for our volunteers to be involved in - I’d like to congratulate everyone who carried the baton to Springburn Park.” The Queen’s Baton Relay has travelled to every part of Glasgow as it makes its way through the Host City before the Opening Ceremony of the XX Commonwealth Games. The route has taken in worldfamous landmarks and attractions as well as being celebrated in every community across the city. Before reaching the finish line at Springburn Park the baton visited the West End, taking in venues including Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Botanic Gardens and the Finnieston Crane. At Springburn Park thousands of people had gathered from late afternoon to take part in the finish line activities.

Terrence Campbell passes the baton to Michael McCreadie Glasgow 2014

Brothers Fraser and Richard Porter from Balornock BBC

The message Her Majesty placed in the baton was read out at the Opening Ceremony earlier this week.

ng2 400 Petershill Road, Springburn, Glasgow, G21 4AA Tel: 0141 630 4252

Email: info@ng2works.com

Website: www.ng2works.com

ng2 is a subsidiary of ng homes

ng in the community

Saracen House, 139 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow, G22 5AZ Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

GENN Spectators urged to forward plan travel before setting off to enjoy Games action

BACKING THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES ALL THE WAY! National Theatre of Scotland Civic House 26 Civic Street Glasgow G4 9RH t: +44 (0) 141 221 0970 w: nationaltheatrescotland.com

G.E.S.H. Greater Easterhouse Supporting Hands

Address: 1 Redcastle Square Garthamlock Glasgow G33 5EG Email: gesh79@aol.com Telephone: 0141 774 7261

Hoping for a great 2014 Commonwealth Games for everyone in Glasgow!

www.gesh.co

Enjoy the Commonwealth Games everyone, from the East End Social Phone: 0141 550 1919 Email: eastendsocial@chemikal.co.uk For upcoming events please visit: eastendsocial.com/events/

WITH the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games under way, research indicates up to half the one million ticket holders still need to finalise or make plans for travel to their events. A survey conducted on behalf of Glasgow 2014 identified that many people have yet to consider the additional time or alternative routes needed to access venues, due to road restrictions and security arrangements being in place. Glasgow 2014 is encouraged that around 50% of people confirmed they have planned their journeys but spectators are being urged to look now at the options available to ensure they have a positive experience travelling to and from their events. Planning ahead will be also be key to keeping the city moving during the Games and helping those who live and work in Glasgow get around. Michael Renshaw, Director of Transport and Logistics at Glasgow 2014, said: “Many of the spectators know the city well but it’s important to remember venues and much of the transport network will operate differently from what people are familiar with. “All venues have very different travel options and there is no general parking available. Spectators can help make their journeys as easy and stress free as possible by planning ahead and visiting the Glasgow 2014 website to view and use all the available travel resources to prepare and plan for a great day out. “Glasgow 2014 is a walking, cycling and public transport Games. Many of the venues

are within walking distance of the city centre and there are a number of venues where walking times may be slightly longer but going on foot may still be the quickest and most relaxing way to get around, plus it means avoiding crowds and inevitable queues at stations and other transport hubs particularly after the end of events. “Cycling will also be one of the quickest ways to get about the city and there are new Glasgow City Council bikes available for hire at 31 locations across the city including six Commonwealth venues. Glasgow 2014 has also provided more than 1000 bike parking spaces across all venues. “We have been working with our partners including Transport Scotland and Glasgow City Council for a long time now to make transport run as smoothly as possible and to provide travel advice to and from all venues and information.” Spectators are able to access public transport within the Games Zone travel area, which takes in City of Glasgow, Clydebank, Bearsden, Bishopbriggs, Rutherglen, Cambuslang, Burnside, Clarkston and Giffnock by using their Games ticket to get to and from their event. There are also arrangements in place for venues outside Glasgow to access public transport within those local areas and details can be found on the Glasgow 2014 website. In addition to local public transport, Glasgow 2014 is providing dedicated spectator shuttle bus services for some of the larger events or the

Have an excellent 2014 Commonwealth Games, from everyone at New Rhythms For Glasgow! New Rhythms For Glasgow, Flemington House, 110 Flemington Street, Glasgow, G21 4BX venues that are less accessible by public transport, including Hampden, Ibrox, Cathkin Braes, Celtic Park and Strathclyde Country Park. These services, which are available for ticket holders only, will operate on a ‘fill and go’ basis with buses leaving up to every two minutes. A Park and Ride service is also available for the larger events for those intending to drive. Priced at £5 per vehicle and with shuttle buses to take spectators to and from their events it represents great value, particularly for those travelling in a group. The Park and Ride service must be booked in advance, and with only two days to go until the first event, time is running out to secure a space so organisers are urging spectators to book now. The service is available for the Closing Ceremony and events at Hampden, Ibrox, Cathkin Braes and Strathclyde Country Park.

BATON AT BUZY BEES

THERE is an overwhelming amount of planning and preparation that goes into the Commonwealth Games, it’s important to remember that the events are a shared experience across all ages. It is important to note that to inspire the next generation of sport, it is imperative that children are introduced to it from a young age and are given the opportunity to try it for themselves, and the folks at Busy Bees childcare have been making sure that happens. The nursery played host to not one but two batons on Tuesday the 22nd of July on the eve of the games - the nursery’s very own baton that had made its way around the country, as well as the Commonwealth Games baton itself. Commonwealth athletes carrying also dropped by to greet the children and Deputy Scottish Labour Leader Answas Sarwar also dropped by for a visit. “I’d like to thank Arwyn and the team here at Busy Bees for inviting me along as a special guest. I know first-hand what an amazing nursery this is because my children come here. This has been a spectacular day, what with Busy Bees baton relay day and all their fun and games

and the actual Commonwealth Games baton and its entourage stopping by for photos. Well done Arwyn and thanks again for all the hard work you all put to making Busy Bees Heritage such a fabulous place for children and parents!” The children were also given the opportunity to take part in their own sports day and relay race.

The nursery’s own baton had made a trip around 16 of Scotland’s nurseries, beginning in Inverness and will conclude in Ayr on the 25th of July. Hand-made specially for the run-up to the games, the baton even carried a secret message from Managing Director Marg Randles, who said: “We have just had a fantastic

time today and the children have really enjoyed themselves and were so excited to see both batons. The staff, including nursery manager Arwen Yuill and her dedicated team worked hard to make it a special day for us all, and it was an honour for us to also welcome Anwas Sarwar to our nursery. We will remember this day for a long time to come.”

Enjoy this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and good luck to everyone taking part!

Eastgate, 727 London Road,Glasgow, G40 3AQ Tel: 0141 276 7400 gcssenquiries@glasgow.gov.uk

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From the Baton to Beyond the Games! AS the Queen’s Baton arrived in Glasgow’s North East on Sunday 20th July a team of baton bearers were ready and waiting to cheer on their peers. Team Active East was all over the route capturing the special moments of all 13 Active Champions, 2 Active Mentors and Programme Manager as well as partners who were running with the baton. Megan Fenwick was one of the first Active Champions to run with the baton at Glasgow Green she flew back from her holiday just to be there and said “Thank you so much for those who came to see me this morning, it meant so much since most of my family couldn’t make it.” After the start line the team made a pit stop at Barras Art and Design who put on a breakfast for all supporters before heading into town to see be the only baton bearer to carry the baton on the subway, Active Mentor Robert Robertson. Robert was also grateful for the moral support and chose to join the team and cheer on the remaining baton bearers along the way. At Duke Street Active Champion Edward Fitzpatrick had an

army of supporters all wearing t-shirts with his face on the front and what relation they were on the back, even the dog was kitted out! Edward said “It’s been a very successful and proud day, carrying the baton then being on the news”. Alex McCartney picked it up further along Duke Street and had the whole of youth organisation RAPA out chanting. The team then speeded along to Shettleston Road where they could cheer on Active Champion Lisa Thomson from Shettleston Harriers who put her running skills to the test. A quick bus journey up to Easterhouse and Active Champions David Weir and Kimberly Wallace were cheered on before running onto Gartloch Road to see Programme Manager Kirsty Partridge. Kirsty said “It was the best day ever” and she even did a celebratory dance with the baton! Courtney Smart was next at Ruchazie and she was overwhelmed by the number of people that turned up to line the street, she said “I appreciate it so much and I’m so glad to have spent one of the most amazing experiences with all of you”. Courtney passed the baton to

Happy 20th Commonwealth Games! Spire View Housing Association 43 Tharsis Street Roystonhill Glasgow G21 2JF Phone: 0141 552 7928 Email: info@spireview.org.uk

Active Champion Melissa Cairns who cycled with it into Hogganfield Loch and a clip of her grinning ear to ear while cycling was shown on the evening news, and passed it to fellow Active Champion Daryl Campbell Daryl ensured everyone got to see the baton all around the park. He had been out since the start cheering on his peers and said “I’ve had a long day and it was one of the best moments of my life, I will never forget the year Glasgow hosted the 2014 Games”. The final Active Champion in the East was John-Paul McGlone, who was in Riddrie, he said he was really nervous but was glad that so many people were there to support him. The team then hopped on a bus up to the finishing line event at Springburn Park to see their peers in the North. Richard Porter passed on the baton to his younger brother Frazer, their dad said “well done in your fantastic support of young people in North East of Glasgow. So proud both my sons are baton carriers”. The final Active Champion of the day Terrence Campbell passed the baton over to the final baton

bearer and Paralympian Michael McCreadie. It was an amazing experience that all of the volunteers will share and remember. Active East is using the Games as a catalyst to get more young people active and build skills through volunteering and partnership working to ensure that local organisations have the capacity to sustain the impact of the programme long term. The programme consists of two strands: a young volunteer strand called Active Champions which is a bespoke programme tailored to their individual interests in sport and physical activity, this may be anything from delivery and coaching to promotion, and a Small Grants strand which provides partner organisations access to funding for new physical activity provision and training. In further recognition, Active East was awarded the Dell Scotland Legacy 2014 Award from Beyond the Games earlier this week. Sir Craig Reedie “if you look at Active East they are doing what happened in London”. At this inaugural Beyond the Games – Living the Values conference which was held at Glasgow Caledonian University which organisers Beyond Sport are heralding as an integral part of the game-changing ambitions of Glasgow 2014 and was opened by Chief Executive, David Grevemberg demonstrating the Organising Committees commitment to a legacy after the games. The Commonwealth Games is one of the world’s leading multi-sports events, uniting the nations and territories of the Commonwealth, home to a third of the world’s population, through sport. Kirsty Partridge, Programme Manager said after winning the award: “I still can’t believe we have won, the other projects shortlisted are also doing fantastic work which will create a real legacy for young people in Scotland. This is just such an amazing recognition of all the hard work and dedication Active Champions and our fantastic partners demonstrate every day to changing the lives of young people and increasing opportunities to get active”.

Here’s to a wonderful Commonwealth Games for everyone in Glasgow!

Milnbank Housing Association 53 Ballindalloch Drive Glasgow G31 3DQ Call 0141 551 8131 admin@milnbank.org.uk www.milnbank.org.uk

Best of luck to everyone competing in the Commonwealth Games!

Rosemount Development Trust Limited Address: 221 Millburn St, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G21 2HL Phone: 0141 552 1199/9046 Web: www.rosemounttrust.co.uk Email: info@rosemounttrust.co.uk

Have a fantastic Commonwealth Games Glasgow! Telephone: 0141 771 6488 www.bailliestondentalcare.com Within Baillieston Health Centre, 20 Muirside Road, G69 7AD

Supporting our colleagues Keeping People Safe at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2014

Tel: 0141 771 1314 Fax: 0141 771 0012 Address: 165 Baillieston Road, Glasgow, G32 0TN E-mail: info@scottishpolicecu.co.uk Web: www.scottishpolicecu.co.uk

Enjoy this summer’s Commonwealth Games and good luck to everyone involved! Help us to raise money for young people in North Glasgow by making your internet purchases at www.easyfundraising.org.uk/toonspeak

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NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL SCOTLAND’S LARGEST INDEPENDANT SCAFFOLDING COMPANY High quality scaffold solutions allowing you to work to time and budgets

Everyone at AS Scaffolding wishes all the best to everyone involved in the Commonwealth Games 98/130 Glenpark Street, Dennistoun, Glasgow G31 1NZ

Tel: 0141 556 7082

GLASGOW PRIVATE HIRE Enjoy this year’s Commonwealth Games!

As the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and Festival 2014 celebrations come to an end on 3 August, many summer festival programmes in Edinburgh will only just be beginning and include Commonwealth themed work as the Cultural Programme continues beyond Games Time. As part of Culture 2014, world leading and new artists will bring fantastic shows and exhibitions to Edinburgh’s stages and galleries. Treats in store include the Commonwealth Jazz Orchestra, starring a great blend of Commonwealth musicians and Scottish artists at the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival.

Eastends Biggest & Best

Carbon Footprints Nursery wishes good luck to everyone participating in this year’s Commonwealth Games! 10 Duke Street, Glasgow G4 0WX Email: marie@carbonfootprintsnursery.com Website: www.carbonfootprintsnursery.com Tel: 0141 548 6500 Carbon Footprints Nursery is a Milnbank Housing Association enterprise

The Glasgow Mela returns for one day only on 30 July as the unique and colourful programme of live music and dance takes place in the iconic Glasgow Green Lize Zone. Scotland’s biggest multicultural festival brings the best in Indian music as Raghu Dixit, BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award winners The Misha MacPherson Trio, Scottish bhangra group Tigerstyle, plus a collaboration between three classical Pakistani musicians from Glasgow’s twin city of Lahore (Chand and Suraj Khan and Tabla player Dani “Kashif Ali”

GREATER MILTON & POSSILPARK CREDIT UNION LIMITED

Wishing everyone a safe and happy 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth games! Cadder Community Centre Tuesday 7pm - 8pm Possilpark Parish Church Saturday 10am -12pm

Working in Milton, Possilpark

Working in Partnership with GCC project- Future Savers Glasgow’s Starter for 10

Have a great 2014 Commonwealth Games everyone! web: bclc.org.uk tel: 0141 556 4275 THE CENTRE, BRIDGETON COMMUNITY LEARNING CAMPUS,68 DALE STREET BRIDGETON, GLASGOW G40 4TL

Gliding Door Company wishes everyone in Glasgow a very happy and succesful Commonwealth Games! SLIDING MIRROR DOORS • Made to measure for your home • Supplied and Fitted Unit 3, 315 Shettleston Road, Glasgow Call 0141 556 2264 - www.gliding-doors.co.uk

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Enjoy the 2014 Commonwealth Games from Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries. Here to ensure that no one should face cancer alone Tel: 0141 287 2999 macmillan@glasgowlife.org.uk www.glasgowlife.org.uk/macmillan

A very happy Commonwealth Games 2014 from everyone at Scotcash! Tel: 0141 276 0525 Web: www.scotcash.net

Glasgow East Women’s Aid wishes everyone a happy 2014 Commonwealth Games! 753 Westerhouse Road Glasgow G34 9PB Crisis Line: 0141 773 3533 Office Telephone: 0141 781 0230 Email: collective@gewa.org.uk

A five-time medallist at the Manchester 2002, Melbourne 2006 and Deli 2010 Commonwealth Games former Badminton star Anthony Clark is ready for this year’s Games in Glasgow. “A Commonwealth Games atmosphere at one of the home nations is an incredible experience” says Anthony “One that I will never forget, it’s just an incredible feeling. Glasgow will be great for fans, athletes and anyone watching the Games unfold at home. I can’t wait until they kick off.” Recording two Silver and four Bronze Commonwealth Games medals at the, Anthony has seen his fair share of podiums and although being retired, has high hopes for another precious medal for Team England as they compete against some of the best badminton players in the world Anthony now contributes to sport as an ambassador for Badminton England, promoting the great benefits that badminton can bring.

Hoping everyone in Glasgow has a great Commonwealth Games! Platform The Bridge 1000 Westerhouse Road Glasgow G34 9JW

is rm d tfo me y Pla ram ed b rts g g pro ana ast A m E y d an sgow pan m Gla Co

T. 0141 276 9670 F. 0141 276 9678 E. info@platform-online.co.uk

Proudly celebra ng the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Shandwick Square, Glasgow G34 9DT. Tel: 0141 773 0114

Thank you to everyone working to make this year’s Commonwealth Games a safe & happy one

Eastgate, 727 London Road,Glasgow, G40 3AQ Tel: 0141 276 7400 gcssenquiries@glasgow.gov.uk

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Parkhead Housing Association says thank you to all 2014 Commonwealth Games staff for all their hard work

The team draws have been made for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games’ Lawn Bowls competition, seeing representatives from across the Commonwealth compete for a place in the coveted knock out stages. While the top teams from the Commonwealth were seeded into sections, based on their performances at the 2012 World Championships, the remaining teams were drawn by Gary Smith, Chief Executive of World Bowls. He said of the draw: “The Lawn Bowls competition at the XX Commonwealth Games will be a phenomenal fight for medals. All the way through the competition there will be amazing matches to see, with the draw giving us some thrilling encounters involving all the teams taking part.” Due to the new format for the two integrated Para-Sport events, all teams were drawn randomly into two sections per event, with the top two teams from each progressing directly to the Semi-finals.

Tollcross Advice & Learning Centre wishes everyone a very happy 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games!

The home nations of England, Scotland and Wales will all battle against one another in both events for these two prized positions, also challenged by Australia in the Mixed Pairs and Malaysia in the Open Triples. The Commonwealth Games provides a great opportunity for the Commonwealth’s best bowlers to be involved in a multi-sport event and showcase the sport to the world. The strongest bowls nations come from the Commonwealth, with one of the most even spreads of medals won across previous Games.

Tollcross Housing Association wishes everyone a wonderful 2014 Commonwealth Games Tollcross Housing Association 84 Braidfauld Street Tollcross Glasgow G32 8PJ Tel: 0141 763 1317

F.A.R.E. would like to wish everyone all the best for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games Bannatyne House 31 Drumlanrig Avenue Easterhouse, Glasgow G34 0JF

T: 0141 771 9151

info@fare-scotland.org.uk

Parkhead Credit Union wishes all the best to everyone involved in the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games!

Tel: 0141 551 8387 Email: parkheadcredit@btconnect.com Web: www.parkheadcreditunion.co.uk

A very happy 2014 Commonwealth Games to everyone in Glasgow! Visit your local branch for information on accounts, credit cards, insurance, loans, mortgages, or visit our website at:

santander.co.uk

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‘East 40’ - local children from St Mungo’s Learning Community singing ‘Let The Games Begin’ at Parkhead Forge.

Ben McCormack and Lisa Graham, ex-Glasgow Kelvin students from the BBC Apprenticeship programme

BBC Radio Scotland have launched the brand new online radio station, Commonwealth Voices, at the Parkhead Forge Shopping Mall!! Delighted shoppers were enthralled with the glorious voices of East 40 - school and nursery age local children from the St Mungo’s Learning Community, singing their torch-song ‘Let The Games Begin’!! Glasgow Kelvin College Sound Engineering students from across the campuses are working hard behind the scenes with the production team, linking with overseas broadcasters and bringing you voices from around the Commonwealth and within the Games community. Learning a host of new skills, the students are amassing impressive experience by bringing you music, chat and bright, entertaining features throughout the Games, from 10am to 4pm in this exciting ‘pop-up’ station. Presenters include the inimitable Cat Cubie, Colin Kelly, Ian Hamilton, Stephen Duffy and Julia Sutherland – a great line-up for a spectacular occasion broadcasting from the heart of the community!! Two members of the BBC production team for the station are no strangers to Glasgow Kelvin College, as they each came through the BBC Apprenticeship programme run

in partnership with the College for the last three years. Lisa Graham and Ben McCormack are each working full-time in media production and are splendid ambassadors for the forward-thinking and innovative apprenticeship programme – they’re pictured here at the official launch of the station. Commonwealth Voices is part of the BBC’s year-long contribution to the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. The BBC is the domestic broadcaster for Glasgow 2014 and in addition to comprehensive sports coverage during the Games in July and August, the Corporation has also unveiled a wide-ranging package of on-air and off-air output and events throughout 2014. Glasgow Kelvin College is delighted to be part of this exciting venture and full of admiration for the professionalism and flair of its Sound Engineering students. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these young

learners and they’re making the most of it. Well done! Get online with them at: bbc/co.uk/ commonwealthvoices or follow them on facebook.

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Istvan Snaps Up Computer in Photography Contest STUNNING images by Glasgow students have helped them win computers worth almost £2,000 in the Future City Glasgow photography competition. Glasgow Kelvin College student Istvan Jancso was awarded the title of overall winner and lifted the top prize of a 13” MacBook Pro laptop. His images included a beautiful Glasgow cityscape spread beneath a vast blue sky. The 31-year-old is studying for an HNC in Photography at the Springburn Campus and plans to progress to an HND in the coming session. The Clydebank resident said: “I have never won anything in my life, so I am over the moon. I still can’t believe it. “The computer is an amazing prize and will come in really useful for my course. It will be fast and I’ll be able to use it for editing. This feels better than winning the lottery because it’s not about luck but hopefully about talent.” Entrants were asked to supply photographs of the city and its people which will be used to promote the £24million Future City | Glasgow programme which

Fashion Show

will show how technology could make life in the city smarter, safer and more sustainable. Three lucky runners-up each won an ipad mini, Simona Ciocarlan, Sarah McAlpine and Christopher Silver. A spokesman for Future City | Glasgow praised the exceptional standard of entries. He said: “I’d like to thank everyone who took part - we were impressed by the high quality of the entries which capture Glasgow at its finest. “The stunning winning images show the abundance of up-andcoming talent among Glasgow’s student population and are testament to the fine work being done by the city’s colleges and universities. Well done to everyone involved and special congratulations to the winning four.” Last year, Glasgow beat 29 other cities to win £24million in a contest run by the Technology Strategy Board – the UK Government’s innovation agency. The city is now in the midst of a pioneering programme covering transport, health, energy efficiency and public safety.

Istvan Jancso with his winning pic, flanked by two of the runners-up.

SCOTLAND has always been a hub for those gifted in the arts, and this is no more apparent than at Glasgow Kelvin College. On Thursday the 5th of June, third year fashion, art and jewelery students opened their inaugural Degree Show Exhibition to great response. The exhibition ran from Monday the 9th to Friday the 12th, and showcased an eclectic range of exciting and unique work. Held across three distinct sections across all four floors within the campus’ rather striking building, visitors were able to get a taste for what the students had created. While extremely varied, what all the students shared was the sheer amount of personality injected into their work. In fashion, collections were extremely diverse, ranging from a glam/grunge crossover to a steampunk/oriental fusion. One artist - Siobhan Mackenzie - incorporated her own Highland heritage into her pieces to create a selection of menswear which also features a ladies gown; using her own family’s tartan as a recurring theme throughout. Another rather unique piece belonged to Andrea Welsh - a visual medley of her dreams over a short period of time - representing constants within all of them to both intriguing and occasionally humorous effect. Each course acts in partnership with a different college in order to present a more well-rounded degree and to help provide students with essential skills to work in their respective industries - and - whilst this exhibition is the first of its kind, its quality in terms of running and pieces on show mean it’s unlikely to be the last.

Strutting their Stuff for Yorkhill! GLASGOW Kelvin College’s supremely talented 2nd year HND Fashion students celebrated their successful year with a cheque presentation to Yorkhill Children’s Charity for a bodice-bursting £5,315.11 !! The hard-working students held a variety of exciting fund-raising events throughout the year, topped off with a splendid fashion show which packed out the dance studio at Springburn Campus. Friends, families and fashionistas were treated to a catwalk extravaganza of the students’ marvellous garments and outfits, complimented by work from the NC and HNC

Fashion students. The event involved students from all over the College, where students modelled the impressive styles and Hairdressing and Beauty students helped showcase their own skills by supporting the backstage effort. This hugely successful event was organised and staged by the HND students who raised the princely sum for a very worthwhile cause close to their hearts. Gemma who helped organise the event said, “It was great to be able to put the whole event together and know that it was raising money for Yorkhill.

Many of us have first-hand experience of the excellent work that Yorkhill does and we’re delighted to help in this way. This experience has been really exciting for us and we can’t thank the staff enough for all the support they’ve given us” John Logan, Volunteer with Yorkhill Children’s Charity, was delighted to receive the cheque from the students at a tea-party which they held to mark the occasion. Congratulations and thanks go to all the students and staff who helped raise this impressive donation for a very deserving cause.

Get Online with Click & Connect A STATE-OF-THE-ART digital learning centre which provides free internet access is helping people into work and further education. The new computer learning centre at the Maryhill Hub in Glasgow is the latest ‘Click & Connect’ facility to open thanks to a partnership between Wheatley Group and Glasgow Kelvin College. Patricia Ferguson MSP officially opened the computer facility which is the first Click & Connect centre to be opened within a Cube Housing Association community. The MSP also marked the signing of a five-year agreement between Glasgow Kelvin College and Wheatley Group – which includes Cube – which will see more digital centres open across the central belt. The partnership will support 30 new or upgraded centres, providing free internet access and learning support to more than 8,500 people within Wheatley Group communities over the next five years. Click & Connect centres provide free computer facilities and digital classes in some of Scotland’s poorest communities. People can get advice on how to access job sites, create a CV, get online shopping discounts, keep up to date with the welfare reform changes and how to fill in online housing and benefit forms. Patricia Ferguson MSP said: “This is an excellent project and, hopefully, the first of many to be established by the partners. It will help give renewed confidence to people in Maryhill and help them gain new skills. It will also provide free internet access to users, which is particularly important now that so many benefits require claimants to apply online.”

Cube tenant Bob Couper added: “I’ve lived in Maryhill for just over two years and I used The Hub as a focal point for settling into the community and meeting my neighbours. The Click & Connect centre is a resource to be proud of.” Wheatley Group Director of Resources, Elaine Melrose, said: “We want to do everything we can to help people in our communities get online. The UK Government’s welfare reform changes mean it’s never been more important for people to have free internet access on their doorstep. “Glasgow has one of the lowest levels of broadband uptake in the whole of the UK. Centres such as this one in the heart of Cube’s community provides a lifeline service which can help people into work, go onto further education and enjoy money-saving benefits. This new partnership will allow us to help even more people in our communities benefit from being online.” The new ‘John Wheatley Learning Network’ partnership builds on an earlier agreement between GHA and John Wheatley College which ran in the East of Glasgow. It will extend the scheme to create centres within Wheatley Group communities across the central belt. Glasgow Kelvin College’s Principal, Alan Sherry added: “We are

delighted to have the opportunity to build on our hugely successful partnership with Wheatley Group by expanding access to high-quality community-based learning and resources for the residents of Maryhill, West Glasgow and beyond. “The Click & Connect initiative and the Maryhill Hub will support local people by equipping them with relevant skills and encouraging them to engage fully with their communities, build capacity and create a learning culture for themselves and their families. Key to the success of this initiative is the spirit of partnership. Glasgow Kelvin College looks forward to the future and the continued development of the John Wheatley Learning Network.” The Click & Connect centre at Maryhill Hub is the 23rd new or refurbished facility – and the first within a Cube community. Wheatley Group also includes GHA, West Lothian Housing Partnership and Loretto Housing. Awards will also be given to six students who make the most progress and overcome significant educational barriers. As part of the new partnership, the College will offer two internships for tenants who live within Wheatley Group homes. Wheatley will also provide an opportunity for a graduate to join its Modern Apprenticeship programme.

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Eating Out

Music

With Paul Mclellan With Mark Johnson Gig Review – Angus Munro Nice N Sleazy 20th July Heard some good things about Celinos, so decided to take the “let’s eat locally “ revolution to them, and find out if its as good as their awards say. As we know the east end of Glasgow is very busy this time of year and driving to celino’s was probably a bad idea. On approaching the deli/ bistro the outside of the shop was bustling with patrons having a beer or just having a coffee in the amazing sunshine. We stepped inside to a smell of fresh Italian meat, on display on the deli counter and aromatic coffee which infects the bistro. It was confusing as no wait to be seated sign, no host just a deli counter and tables on the left side and a chef sitting on a table on his mobile phone. We sat at a table near the front. I ordered Minestrone soup to start followed by a Vegetarian lasagne as main, a wee vegetarian dish sometimes throws a spanner in the works, my wife ordered Antipasto as a starter and Pasta with duck in a garlic herb sauce, all these dishes were on their pre theatre menu at a really good price. We got our starters, my soup was really nice homemade and authentic, and my wife’s antipasto was great to fresh meat and pickled veg though she only had 1 olive on it which was a surprise as its stated (olives) on the menu, but not a big deal. With the starter we were served some lovely bread, followed by olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which you would expect from any Italian eatery. As our starters were cleared we paid more attention to our surroundings, it was starting to get busy, and you could see the staff beginning to raise their game, and bustle around to get things done. Our mains arrived my lasagne looking piping hot and tasty, my wife’s pasta looking a bit dull and quite a small portion, but she seemed happy with it, though it looked a little tight on the pasta front, but the taste made up for it I’m sure. My lasagne was.... ok it was nice but i have definitely had much better the tomato sauce had no oomph in it, no garlic,

herbs and really make it awesome, it was nice though and filling, but maybe thinking of my Old granny’s homemade lasagne maybe led me to expect more. The place was full and as we approached the end of our meal so were we, some places you go like to rush you out as they are in need of the table, but the service in here was great, they made no effort to rush us out at all, if anything encouraging us to stay, but as we both work in the industry, we decide to get the bill and free up a table for them to use as they were absolutely full. We paid our bill and the lovely girl who served us first wished us a nice evening and a thank you which is always nice, especially as she was busy and this can be missed sometimes. I left the Celino’s into the nice sunny Alexandra parade, felling full, but thinking the main course was a bit underwhelming, but at the same time service was pretty special in there. Overall Celinos, is a lovely little bistro, with a great little team, who could probably show some of the big boys in the restaurant industry how to look after their customers, they made me feel very welcome, and at home. This has made sure i will go back without a doubt, and I’ll make sure i shop at the deli it does really look awesome. If had to make one recommendation, sort out the entrance with a sign, let people know what they do, it is confusing, i saw it throughout my visit. But i am more than happy to recommend this place to all of you, it’s a great little place, so get out and try it,, you won’t be disappointed trust me. Value for money 4/5 Service 5/5 Food 4/5 Environment 4/5 Overall 4/5. If you have any feedback about my eating out guide, or wish to recommend somewhere, please contact us, and remember This is the revolution of “let’s eat locally”, it is growing and will continue to grow, look out for the nest edition where i put one of the big Restaurant Brands to the test, and see if what they offer is good enough to be part of our revolution. Paul Mclellan

WHEN I first heard about Angus Munro he was described to me as a cross between The Divine Comedy and Mika, but I think that does him a disservice. The 6’ 3” piano playing singer songwriter with the four octave vocal range certainly has a similar crooning style to Neil Hammond and can hit the high notes like Mika, but there’s a lot more to his work than that for me. At this gig it was Angus unplugged and the theme of the night was to let the songwriters talk about the stories behind the songs. On the stage the traverse curtain was drawn and blue light flooded across it with only a keyboard and a microphone. As Angus entered in grey slacks, a navy jacket and a fifties movie poster shirt I was expecting a fun pop set, which it was, but hearing him talking about his songs revealed that there’s more depth there than I had considered previously. Opening with “Shooting First”, the lead track of his latest EP, the higher registers of his range were developed than on the recording. The stories behind the songs he went on to share proved to be fascinating. Next up was the poignant “HM” written about Henry Molaison, a man who had neurosurgery and lost his ability to form any new memories. This isn’t your usual pop song subject but the dramatic piano harmonies and swooping vocal arpeggios make it work. A more reflective side appeared on “The 90s”, a song yearning for easier times.

Angus described this as “the easiest song I ever wrote” and was the product of finding out his Dad was having an affair. With complex major seventh piano harmonies and fun lyrics “When the Teenage Mutant Turtles were the only thing I knew” it’s a piece of slick, upbeat pop that sweetly defies its darker subject matter. Next up was the really dramatic Eureka, based on the Frederic Peters graphic novel Blue Pills, dealing with the subject of love and loss of a family member. The drama was intensified by use of ¾ time and descending piano harmonies reminiscent of Scott Walker’s ‘Scott 3’ album with a rousing chorus and soaring Jeff Buckley falsetto in the middle-eight. “The Death of Me”, written as a love song for a girl by the 18 year old Angus, has a nimble lyric, introduced in a self-deprecating way, as is his likeable style. Next up was Equaliser, a song he recently performed on BBC Radio Scotland’s The Culture Show.

Tackling the theme of anti-depressants the song really showed of Angus’ effortless and accomplished control of the upper vocal registers. “Marlene,” a cheer up song written for his Mum when his Dad passed away is a heartfelt pop number and was delivered with gusto and humour. “Porn” was a “dumb” number spawned in University halls of residence. With the funny chorus “This song is made for porn with the mute option on” it elicited smiles all around the appreciative crowd. “Anime Heart” draws on Angus’ love of anime, with audience participation raises the tempo and has one of the poppier catchier choruses of the set. An improvised “guitar” vocal solo and Japanese verse added variation. One of the most entertaining parts of the set. The penultimate song was “Aftershave” a ballad about a woman who married her childhood sweetheart and lived happily until her husband died of sudden death

syndrome. Instead of mourning, she decided to travel the world. A really poignant moment in the set. To finish we were treated to a medley of Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and the theme tune to Australian soap opera Neighbours. One of my favourite philosophers said “regard everyone you meet as the walking wounded” and I definitely felt that resonate with the vulnerability of the songs I heard tonight. I knew Angus Munro was a lot of fun before the show, but I didn’t realise where the songs had come from and I like him even more now. He’s an entertainer, an intelligent lyricist and musician and has an incredible voice. His recent EP “Shooting First” is available now, with an upcoming tour and support with Scouting for Girls later in the year. Find out more at angusmunromusic.com Angus Munro plays Wickerman Festival on Saturday 26th July

THE East End Social and Chemikal Underground will be curating an event at Glasgow Green on Saturday 2nd August The event is called Glasgow Mixtape and aims to showcase the musical diversity of the city and reflect the more independently minded side of music. Starting with Penman’s Jazzmen in the morning the day will continue with a mixture of live performances and performances on video

screens featuring the likes of Lloyd Cole, Edwin Collins, The Bluebells, Holy Mountain, Errors, The Phantom band, The Amphetameanies, The Alarm Bells, Admiral Fallow, Malcolm Middleton and Cleland born Scottish crooning legend Sidney Devine. For more information got to www. eastendsocial. com

Upcoming events GLASGOW’S Underground: Brunswick Stage, Brunswick Street. This free twelve day party started on Wednesday 23rd July and will run until Sunday 3rd August. Featuring the best of Glasgow’s underground music scene the stage will be brought to you in conjunction with The Electric Frog, Sub Club, Soma Records, Melting Pot, Rubadub, Kiltr, Sunday Circus, Glasgow Jazz Festival, Glasgow Comedy Festival,

Hotgem and more. With a hugely diverse line up featuring Harri, Esperanza, Siobhan Wilson, Slam, Atom Tree, Jo Mango, Federation of the Disco Pimp, Telford, Indian Red Lopez, Patricia Panther, Machines in Heaven, Sensu, Pete No Face, Beta & Kappa, Young Pilgrims, Vasa and much much more. Promising lots from acoustic singer songwriters to math rock to house to ska to techno there’s going to be something for everyone.

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DEPOT ARTS SARACEN STREET FESTIVAL

DEPOT Arts held their Big Gig at Possilpark bandstand on Friday 11th July. The event featured live music from Mary Jane McIvor, Sophie Rogers, Charly Houston, 4th State, Big Taj and How to Swim. Other attractions on the day included an instrument maker, food, face painting and live arts. All photographs courtesy of Andy Kelly Andy Kelly Photography

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A YOUNG PERSON’S GUIDE TO GLASGOW BY JOSH GRAHAM BEING a young Glaswegian has more social advantages than pop culture would have you believe. Once you cut through the the thick undergrowth of stereotype-laden rhetoric that would have you believe the every Glaswegian late teen/ twenty-something is a podgy slob. A slob who does nothing but eat deep fried mars bars, chips and cheese and a certain tonic wine, you’ll find that outwith the odd ned completely willing to tick every box on the contemptuous we’re actually a pretty vibrant bunch - a bit like our city. If you’re a lifelong resident or just a visitor, there will most definitely be something that will be new for you to try. FOOD Since we were on the subject of food with fan-favourite chips and cheese, it’s certainly worth noting that Glasgow’s expansive array of restaurants and eateries is actually far more varied and far more delicious than you might think. Sure, you can always go with what you know - Subway, McDonald’s, Nando’s and KFC, but where’s the adventure in that when you can have those things no matter where you are? And what should you try instead? The first answer sits in plain sight - burgers. Burgers might seem a bit middle of the road, a bit hum drum, and you can get a burger anywhere can’t you? Of course you can. But, what you might not know is that Glasgow has a massive range of independent burger orientated restaurants dotted throughout the city all with their own unique aesthetics and personalities. The one that seemed to be the catalyst for Glasgow’s burger revolution is Ketchup - with restaurants in the South Side and West End, it’s menu offers completely cus-

tomisable burgers and sports a quirky, vintage atmosphere to boot. Dig a little deeper (and take a walk through the city centre) and you’ll find the Bread Meats Bread and the similarly monikered Burger Meats Bun - both have their advantages. Burger Meats Bun gives off the kind of atmosphere you can imagine being soaked in if you were breezing through a New York side street, and its burgers and shakes are well worth a go. Bread Meats Bread could not be more different aesthetically, and it’s large window panes are perfect for a bit of good old fashioned people-watching. The food’s pretty good too - with a more diverse range of food and a greater on sandwiches, it’s worth a visit just to sample the restaurants cheesesteak, and the as-goodas-they-sound bacon chips are to die for. Not a meat eater? Not a problem. Officially branded the most vegan friendly city in the UK by PETA, it truly is a haven for those who know there’s more to being a vegetarian/vegan than salads. One of the most popular - The 78 Cafe Bar - offers a fully and exclusively vegan menu that features burgers, ice cream, and whole load of other delicious treats.

In addition, there’s 25% off for all students every Tuesday, so there’s no real excuse to not check it out (that means you too carnivores, you might just surprise yourself). BARS Forget Wetherspoons, go out and be a bit more adventurous! First port of call, the West End. Pretty much a mecca for studenty types, the West End - and Ashton Lane in particular - offers a superb variety of

bars, one of the most popular being Vodka Wodka. Always extremely busy no matter what day of the week you choose to attend, Vodka Wodka (as the name sug-

gests) specialises in a range of vodka based cocktails, but don’t let that put you off - this bar caters to all tastes and even has an exclusive cocktail menu that offers a mix of classics and newbies for a mere £3.50 Sunday to Thursday. Vodka Wodka also has an outdoor area as well, allowing you to enjoy your beverage whilst taking full advantage of the lingering summer sun. Sounds good? Bit peckish too? Burgers, nachos and pizzas are just some of the snacks on offer - served 11am-5pm on weekdays. Outwith the usual definition of bars, the West End also has its own Shisha bar named Cafe Haze - a place to smoke a range of deliciously flavoured tobacco and only a stones throw away from Kelvinbridge, Glasgow’s premier and longest running Shisha bar is a top destination for those looking to relax and try something new. Moving on to the city centre and back to drinks bars, there are - just like the West End - loads of great places to visit and you’ll never be stuck for choice. However, there are a couple of names that stand out, the first of which is Tingle shooter bar. Routinely the most busy bar in the city centre, you can guarantee that a consistently great atmosphere and great tunes. What makes the bar so special is besides the usual drinks available at your average bar it has its own unique range of deviously creative shots - all of which a mere £1.50. With 24 for varieties - from the pedestrian but no less delicious Cookie Dough - a mix of Bailey’s, butterscotch Schnapps and Goldschlager to the fiery Mad Scientist - a fiendish concoction of sambuca, tequila, absinthe and tabasco sauce. Yes, tabasco sauce. Foodwise, plenty of snacks and sweets to be had before 8pm, and if you come in with a group of four or more - free pizza. Tough to argue with that. Anyway, enough with

what’s trendy, more about the classics. One of Glasgow’s oldest, best loved, and most popular is Nice n’ Sleazy - or simply Sleazy’s to the indigenous. Open for 23 years now and still as bustling as ever, Sleazy’s is in a prime location on Sauchiehall Street and surrounded by a plethora of other popular bars and clubs, the Garage, the o2 ABC, Firewater and the Variety Bar,

it’s the perfect place for pre drinks before a big night out, or just about anything else. Open from noon all the way through to 3am, with a great range of food to suit all diets, from award-winning burgers to burritos to salads, there’s something for everyone. When it comes to drinks, you won’t be left with limited choice, with all the usual suspects as well as some excellent craft beers, it’s a haven

for those with more adventurous tastes. If all that wasn’t enough, Nice ‘N’ Sleazy’s is also a great way to experience music in Glasgow, with many touring acts and local bands as well as resident DJs playing the downstairs venue every week, it’s too good an opportunity to miss for any self-respecting culture vulture - just check the listings on the site for gigs and other club nights.

ACTIVE EAST CHAMPIONS TAKE CENTRE STAGE FOR GAMES WITH the Commonwealth Games now underway, many local organisations are taking advantage of the events taking place around the city. One such organisation is Glasgow’s own Active East - who recently announced that all 54 of their Active Champions will be playing a major role throughout the games. These Active Champions will give up their free time to help to provide a wide variety of activities from weekly to yearly events, and will team up with over 32 different partner organisations to provide the best experience best possible. Using the games as a means of piquing the interest of young people with regards to getting involved in active pursuits as well as partaking in a variety of volunteering programmes, Active East also strives to ensure that local organisations have the ability to sustain themselves when dealing with the impact of the programme long term. The programme is split into two parts:- the aforementioned Active Champions which is an initiative designed to cater to the interests of the individual in terms of sport and physical activity, and this can vary from delivery and coaching to promotion skills. The second is the Small Grants strand, and this gives partner organisations the op-

portunity to get their hands on funding for training schemes and physical activity provisions. Understandably, this is a very exciting time for all, Active Champion Robert Lindsay concluded “I’ve really enjoyed the course, it has been very practical with lots of peer encouragement and I am looking forward to putting my learning into practice at the event on the 25th July.” This is a sentiment echoed by Active East themselves “We are so proud of each and every one of them and the fact that they were all successful in securing a Games experience is testament to them”. Active East is currently subsidised by The National Lottery Fund - as well as The Robertson Trust and Sport Relief - and this has meant that they have been able to get tickets to attend ex-

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citing events including rugby, squash, athletics and even the Closing Ceremony - meaning they will be able to support their fellow volunteers who will be featuring within it, which will no doubt be a fantastic experience, one that National Lottery Scotland Chair Maureen McGinn is more than happy to provide “Active East is one the many fantastic projects across Scotland contributing to the 2014 Games legacy, thanks to National Lottery funding. I am delighted that some of its young people will be attending the Games and the closing ceremony thanks to the Legacy ticket initiative from the Scottish Government. These young people are part of the Games legacy and now have the chance to acquire memories of this special event which should last a lifetime.”

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St Paul’s Primary make history FOR the third year running, Saint Paul’s (Shettleston) school football team have won the league! They worked very hard all season and as a result of their league triumph they earned a place in the Glasgow championships, going on to secure a triumph there also. They are the only team to have won the Glasgow Championship three years in a row since the competition began in 1970. These fantastic achieve-

ments have been the result of very hard work on the part of the Primary 5 to Primary 7 boys, their coach Tony Eadie (school janitor), assistants Graham Aitken and Barry McIntee and teacher Miss Devlin. Saint Paul’s football team are currently looking for a new kit sponsor and any support from local businesses would be greatly appreciated. Good luck to all the school football teams next season!

Lord Provost’s Visit

THE Lord Provost of Glasgow, Sadie Docherty, recently visited Saint Paul’s Primary School in Shettleston and received a very warm welcome from the nursery children through to Primary 7 pupils.

The Lord Provost was first welcomed by the performance of three songs from Saint Paul’s Glee Club and then children listened intently as she told them about her job and responsibilities. They were enthralled as

she showed them some photographs of the City Chambers and of important people she had met and welcomed to Glasgow whilst in her post. Pupils also had the chance to quiz the Lord Provost, find out more about the upcom-

ing Commonwealth Games and see first hand the Lord Provost’s chain of office and the city’s ceremonial mace. Joining the Lord Provost at our school was one of the council civic officers who spoke to pupils about his

roles and responsibilities. The pupils (and staff!) then received a big surprise as Clyde the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games mascot came to say hello and cause some mischief, much to the delight of all children

in attendance. To finish off an exciting morning, the Lord Provost presented our school with a framed commemoration of her visit and in turn received a Saint Paul’s Ambassador’s pin as a memento.

Send in your news story and pics to share to editor@thegenn.co.uk

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Your Horoscope Predictions By Eris

Aries

Libra

(24 Sep - 23 Oct)

You’re looking at a time of increased social activity, which can help any recently launched business endeavour. With a focus on groups, politics, and selfemployment, you’re poised to make a big change in your life, one that may end up affecting the way you live. It’s easier to communicate with groups about your ideas and sway public opinion in your favour.

You have a supportive Universe now, indicating a time of renewed attention to romance, children, and family. If you work in one of these areas, money comes almost effortlessly. If you have an idea for a product or service to reach these demographics, it’s a great time to launch that into the world. Something written or spoken may do the trick. Put pen to paper or lend your voice to the airwaves.

Taurus

Scorpio

(24 Oct - 22 Nov)

(21 March - 20 April)

(21 April - 21 May)

The Universe is highlighting your career sector and helping provide needed energy for growth. You may revisit an old idea or project you’d abandoned and find that now is the perfect time to make it happen. You may find that your dreams or intuitive flashes are particularly helpful for coming up with something no one has ever seen before.

Gemini

(22 May - 21 June)

You’ve been meaning to clean house in some way in your work and money life, and this period provides just the right combination of energies to get it done. It’s a great time to update your resume and look for a new job, if you want to, or gain the attention of superiors for plum assignments. Volunteer for the best ones and you may get a raise.

Sagittarius

(23 Nov - 21 Dec)

You have tons of new energy to make a positive impression on everyone you meet. It’s a great time to schedule job interviews or make presentations to gain more exposure for your goods and services. The Universe brings attention to romance, kids, and family. The more you use your personality to impress others, the better off your financial situation becomes for the people who really matter.

This period is about aspects affecting your house of marriage and serious relationships. Make sure your calendar and contacts are up to date. In order to make more money, you’ll need to access these people regularly. Make lunch, dinner, and drink dates for networking purposes. Your bottom line, not to mention your ego, will thank you later.

Cancer

Capricorn

(22 June - 23 July)

(22 Dec - 20 Jan)

You’re facing an exciting time now. With so many extra opportunities to make money and augment your salary, it may be tempting to spend more as well. Your employment sector holds the key. Why not take advantage of a savings program offered through work? In some cases, an employer will match every dollar of yours that you save. Not too shabby

If you’ve been meaning to get your accounts in order, this is a great time to do it. Your house of debt and other people’s money is most affected. If you’re trying to raise money for a new business idea, it’s a great time to do so. The Universe is focusing on messages, such as loan applications, and making sure the answers you receive are positive. Put the money to good use.

Leo

Aquarius

(24 July - 23 Aug)

(21 Jan - 19 Feb)

You’re trying to say more of what you mean when it comes to work and money now. It’s the perfect time to speak up about your priorities and be heard on all things cash oriented. Don’t let someone else at work or in a close relationship be overly domineering about his or her money ideas. Together you can move mountains - alone, not so much.

It’s an interesting time. You can’t be ignored, so try to use the time to your advantage. Put yourself out there. Volunteer to give the presentation. Try a new style. Your house of romantic fun, kids, and family members comes into play. How can you use family connections to advance your money cause? Are they willing to provide a reference to a new social group?

Virgo

Pisces

(24 Aug - 23 Sep)

It’s a challenging time to be you. The sky’s the limit when it comes to your home and inner feelings. If you’ve been craving a break from the office, working from home may provide just the peace and quiet you need to become even more productive. Who knows? You may also find that you can make this work long-term with your employer.

Just a Thought When you doubt your power, you give power to your doubt HAVE you ever felt down, deflated, to feel down, like the feeling one gets after being at the amusement park when the excitement is over. An end to something that was exciting and intense at times. But once done, an insidious feeling begins to take over. Thoughts begin to wander to “the dark side” questioning abilities. What if I can’t create something new? What if people don’t like what I have done? Like after any expenditure of energy, there is always a lull. Lulls have been known to drain ones creative energy if you let them. When in that lull or in that space between creativity, it may seem like nothing is happening. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. We need that break. When in this state you can be quick to take things personally or do nothing and give in to the disappointment when things have not gone as expected. Alternatively, you could use this as motivation, a starting point for another creative endeavour. But self-doubt has a way of getting under your skin. To feel an uprising of the “you’re not good enough” gremlins inside you when this happens. “Trust your self, use what you have inside to create.” With the right attitude you can bring any goal into being; it’s all a matter of perspective. So I yourself, listen to the inner muse, and try again, or give in to the gremlins that discourage persistence, positivity, and faith in one’s self. It’s a choice one has to make with anything in life: to either believe in yourself or allow yourself to be sucked into self-pity and feelings of self-doubt.

I know I am not alone in this battle of wills. It’s a struggle for a lot of creatives, new and seasoned, to push on through for their visions to be birthed. It is easy enough to get lost in the sea of other creations out there. Trying to navigate through them without comparing yourself to others’ successes can be difficult. Muting the voices of self-doubt gremlins can be quite a feat.Here are some things that can help you trust yourself again when feeling defeated: 1. Ground yourself. If you find yourself being pulled into negative thoughts stemming from past experiences or comments from others, staying present is key to being able to focus on the positive. Sometimes it’s as simple as getting outside in nature. For others, meditating may help. I love walking meditations out in nature where I notice the details of my surroundings without judgment. 2. Balance the negative. If you find that voices of the

critical gremlins (both inner and outer) are way too loud, drown them out (or at least balance them) with your own chants of self-praise. This can be hard when you’re in a real funk and find it difficult to access encouraging words for your self. To counter these voices you may find it helpful to write down 5 to 10 positive things about yourself in a handy mini notepad. Whenever the gremlins strike with their undermining comments of “You’re not good enough,” whip out your book and read out loud words of praise for your self. 3. Take a break. If you are feeling overwhelmed by what you perceive as not going so well, take some time away from that project and focus on something totally different. Sometimes shifting our focus away from what we are stuck on helps us take a new perspective when we come back to it. Doodle, scribble, paint with your hands. Put on your favourite music and move around.

Clearing the wood to see the trees

The Genn Crossword

CHECK FOR ANSWERS ON PAGE 33

Across

1. Seafarer (7) 4. Attain (5) 7. Catlike mammal (5) 9. Type of rock (7) 10. Respire (7) 11. Gaze (5) 12. Resembling a horse (6) 14. Unit of time (6) 18. Pandemonium (5) 20. Melodious (7) 22. Elusive (7) 23. Fibbing (5) 24. Foe (5) 25. Distinguished (7)

Down (20 Feb - 20 Mar)

You’re trying to find a solution to an ongoing money quandary. You’re becoming more of an authority figure in what you do. And you’re ready to cash in on all your hard-earned cachet. The cosmos is affecting your house of money and values, showing that cash flow should increase very soon with a little effort and follow-through.

4. Nurture yourself. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of self-doubt when we forget to take care of or own needs. Make sure you have enough play time (away from work to balance the work and play). Be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day (not all at once), get enough sleep, and eat healthily. Keep a gratitude art journal where you pick a picture out of a magazine or from online and choose one to three things a day that you are thankful for. 5. Connect with others. While it is important to strengthen your self-love muscles, it is just as important to get the support you need from others. Whether this is from friends, family, or a professional therapist or coach, getting reassurance or help from others can make a big difference. Sometimes just the reassurance that you are not the only one who gets stuck or has moments of self doubt can be help you shift a “why me” attitude. What helps you overcome doubt in your abilities?

1. Gruesome (7) 2. Variety show (5) 3. Elevated (6) 4. Parts of a ladder (5) 5. Fruit (7) 6. Precipitance (5) 8. Colossus (5) 13. Unwitting (7) 15. Tripod (5) 16. Joy (7) 17. Hinder (6) 18. Pancake (5) 19. Glossy (5) 21. Percussion instrument (5)

GENN

Lest we forget the battle...

REMEMBERING ROBERT THE BRUCE ON 25 March 1306, Robert the Bruce was chosen to be King of Scots and to lead the fight for Scottish independence against Edward I of England. Born in 1274 in Ayr, the son of Robert Bruce, Earl of Carrick, he was the grandson of the Robert Bruce who had been one of the competitors for the throne after the death of the Maid of Norway. Robert I had been on the English side when Edward moved against Balliol, but he had subsequently joined Wallace’s revolt. When Wallace gave up the Guardianship of Scotland in 1298, Robert became joint Guardian with Sir John Comyn of Badenoch (Balliol’s nephew). A few weeks before his coronation, Robert killed his greatest rival for the crown - his joint Guardian - in a Dumfries church, during the last of many arguments between them. For this murder, Robert was outlawed by Edward I and excommunicated by Pope Clement V. His reign did not begin well. He was defeated by the English at Methven in Perthshire; his wife, daughter and sisters were imprisoned; and three of his brothers were executed by the English. Robert fled westward to the Antrim coast. (The story of Robert drawing inspiration from a persistent spider mending its web in a cave dates from the sixteenth century.) However, he possessed real military genius and he was helped by the fact that in 1307 Edward I, the self-styled ‘Hammer of the Scots’, died and was succeeded by his less effective son Edward II. From 1307 onwards, with energy and determination, Robert waged highly successful guerrilla warfare against the English occupiers, establishing control north of the Forth, and gradually won back his kingdom; by 1314, Stirling was the only castle in English hands. His campaign culminated in resounding victory over Edward II (whose larger army of 20,000 outnumbered Robert’s forces by three to one) at the Battle of Bannockburn, near Stirling on 24 June 1314. Bannockburn confirmed the re-establishment of an independent Scottish monarchy. Two years later, his brother and heir presumptive, Edward Bruce, was inaugurated as High King of Ireland (which increased pressure on the Eng-

lish), but was killed in battle in 1318. Even after Bannockburn and the Scottish capture of Berwick in 1318, Edward II refused to give up his claim to the overlordship of Scotland, and so in 1320 the Scottish earls, barons and the ‘community of the realm’ sent a letter to Pope John XXII declaring that Robert I was their rightful monarch. This ‘Declaration of Arbroath’ has become perhaps the most famous document in Scottish history. The Declaration asserted the antiquity of the Scottish people and their monarchy: “...we gather from the deeds and books of the ancients, that among other distinguished nations our own nation, namely of Scots, has been marked by many distinctions. “It journeyed from Greater Scythia by the Tyrrenhian Sea and the Pillars of Hercules, and dwelt for a long span of time in Spain among the most savage peoples, but nowhere could it be subjugated by any people, however barbarous. From there it came, twelve hundred years after the people of Israel crossed the Red Sea and, having first driven out the Britons and altogether destroyed the Picts, it acquired, with many victories and untold efforts, the places which it now holds ... “As the histories of old time bear witness, it has held them free of all servitude ever since. In their kingdom one hundred and thirteen kings of their own royal stock have reigned, the line unbroken by a single foreigner.’ The Declaration also had a stark warning for Robert: “were he to desist from what he has undertaken and be willing to subject us or our kingdom to the king of the English or the English, we would strive to expel him forthwith as our enemy and as a subverter of right, his own and ours, and make someone else our king who is equal to the task of defending us.” In 1324, the Pope recognised Robert as king of an independent Scotland. Two years later, the Franco-Scottish alliance was renewed in the Treaty of Corbeil, by which the Scots were obliged to make war on England should hostilities break out between England and France. In 1327, the English deposed Edward II in favour of his son

Edward III and peace was then made between Scotland and England with the treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton, which began with England’s total renunciation of all claims to superiority over Scotland. Robert had achieved all he had fought for: ejecting the English, re-establishing peace and gaining recognition as the true king. By that time, King Robert was seriously ill, probably with leprosy, and he died at Cardross, Dunbartonshire on 7 June 1329, aged 54. A few days later, in response to an earlier request by him, the Pope granted permission for kings of Scots to be anointed at their coronation (Scottish kings had previously been enthroned in a mainly secular ceremony at Scone). This was a clear acknowledgement that the Pope recognised Scotland’s independence. Robert I was buried at Dunfermline and, in fulfilment of his dying wish, Sir James Douglas set out to carry his heart to the Holy Land. Sir James was killed fighting the Moors in Granada, in Spain, but the heart was retrieved and brought back to Scotland, to be buried in Melrose Abbey, Roxburghshire. Robert Bruce’s daughter had married Walter FitzAlan, the Hereditary High Steward of Scotland, also known as Walter the Steward, the later form of which became Stuart. Thrown from a horse, Marjorie was killed, but surgeons managed to deliver a son, Robert, cut from her body (in 1371, when he was 54 years old, the crippled boy became Robert II, the first of the royal line of Stuarts). Robert Bruce had then married Elizabeth de Burgh; their five-year old son, David, ascended to the throne as David II, with the Earl of Moray acting as Regent. In the meantime, in England, following the ignominious career and frightful death of Edward II, his son became King Edward III in 1327. The new king planned to intervene in the affairs of Scotland by enlisting the support of many disaffected nobles whose lands had been forfeited in their earlier fight against Bruce. The rival Scottish army marched on Scotland and defeated the troops of the Earl of Mar, who had succeeded Moray as military commander and crowned John Balliol’s son

Edward as King of Scotland at Scone. This was a grievous error; Balliol was immediately sent packing by former supporters of Bruce. King Edward III’s response was typical, and once again an English army was on the move in Scotland. There was to be no Bannockburn this time. King Edward’s armies captured Berwick, dispersed a French fleet that had come to aid the Scots and won a strategic battle at Halidon Hill. Worse, however, for Scotland’s newly won independence was the defection of large numbers of Scottish nobles and clergy to the winning side, with the result that the Lowlands were quickly overrun and garrisoned by the English. As on the borders of Wales, these garrison towns then quickly filled up with English settlers, merchants and clergy, completely transformed the social structure (and the language). It was up to Bruce’s grandson, Robert Stewart to restore the political situation. With England now finding itself heavily engaged in the Hundred Years War with France, Stewart seized his opportunity. With French help, he drove the English out of Bute, captured Perth and cleared

Scotland of invaders north of the Forth. In 1341, he brought his young Uncle David back from voluntary exile in France to reclaim his Scottish throne. Things looked promising for a while, but then disaster struck once more. After the French army had been soundly thrashed at Crecy (where Welsh archers in the service of the English Crown had been very prominent), the King of France desperately needed Scottish intervention to relieve his forces. Accordingly, as a diversion, David II unwisely sent an army to England. His soldiers were defeated at Neville’s Cross and David was captured. He spent the next 12 years of his life as a prisoner at the court of Edward III. Here the young Scot became thoroughly anglicized, preferring to live the easier life of an English court hanger-on than to endure the burdens of Scottish kingship. In the interim, Scotland was ruled once again by Robert Stewart, a much stronger, forceful leader than David. Under Stewart, the English were defeated in a second diversionary attack by a Scottish army under Williams Douglas. Even Edward III, commanding his troops, was sent back

south of the border humiliated. This time Edward signed a 10-year truce and received an enormous ransom for the weak, vacillating David. He then sat back to await developments. He did not haveto wait long. English successes continued in France and many Scots had no stomach for further debilitating warfare. After all, it was their land that was continually being devastated by English armies and David went back to live his former life of comparative ease in England. The Scots did not wish to see David’s son succeed to their throne, despite an agreement he had made with King Edward. In 1371, the Scottish Parliament gave the throne to Robert Stewart, who became Robert II, the first Stuart King. However, the unfortunate country’s initial hopes of restored greatness were soon dashed -- a strong and brave leader in opposition, he proved to be anything but that as King. In addition, his Norman background did not possess the authority and prestige of eight centuries of Scottish kingship. Thus, was set in motion what became the country’s curse for centuries to come -- the conflict between the nobility and the Crown.

GENN

Independence Forum Have your say Dear Editor I read that Barack Obama has this week said that when talking about the UK said “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it” Well I think he’s got a cheek after celebrating the USA’s independece earlier this month. Maybe if we had a constitution and a bill of rights then we’d be celebrating too. What happened to him keeping neutral? He was supposed to keep his nose out for the sake of neutraility. I think we’re big enough to make the decision ourselves, so keep your nose out of it! Indy Scot. via email Dear Editor I’m sick of all these nationalists telling us how much better Scotland would be without nuclear weapons. Look at the situation in Ukraine and in the Middle East. The world is too volatile to not have nuclear weapons and it’s essential that we have them to stop wars. Without shared defence we’d be a sitting duck for terrorists and we wouldn’t be able to defend ourselves. With Russia looking like it’s old self and probably aiming its missiles on us now this is no time for seperation. We could become the next Ukraine or even become like Isreal if we seperate from our brothers in the rest of the UK. I don’t want my grandchildren speaking Russian! Billy via email Dear Editor When I was younger, still at school, my mother’s advice to me was remarkably similar to the advice Jim Sillars gave to his grandchildren, in that, she told me to do well at school, get some qualifications and then after a suitable period of working in the country to pay it back for my education; get out, emigrate, go somewhere where the system actually cared about it’s people and where I could realistically aspire to live a better life than my parents. That didn’t transpire for a number of reasons, I’m still here, and since those days I’ve gone from job to job, to unemployment, to employment and back again, currently being “on the sick” through mental health problems. What I have seen in the last quarter century, since I was giv-

More and more Labour supporters are declaring their support for Yes! Last week the Yes campaign was delighted to welcome the support of Peter Kilfolyle, the former Labour MP for Liverpool Walton, and a defence minister in Tony Blair’s Labour government – from which he resigned arguing that Labour was neglecting its roots. Highlighting the “positive and aspirational” tone of the Yes campaign, Mr Kilfoyle said: “As an issue it is bigger than any political party. It is about the aspirations of a country, and that is what is important to me. It (independence) will basically enable Scots to make decisions for themselves away from London”. Mr Kilfoyle doesn’t have a vote in this referendum, but his message is one that is resonating with Labour supporters across Scotland. Hardly a week goes by without well-known Labour figures declaring their support for Yes – including former Glasgow Lord Provost Alex Mosson, and former leader of Strathclyde Regional Council Charles Gray. Last week an opinion poll by TNS showed the Yes campaign is enjoying success in persuading Labour voters to support independence. Many get involved with “Labour for Independence.” It’s just four years since the longest Labour government in history – and yet look at the damage that’s already been done by the Westminster Tories. For many Labour supporters it’s en this advice has only reinforced my belief in Scotland’s need to go it’s own way. From my time in the Army, I realised that it is largely populated by poorly educated teenagers, coming from rough backgrounds, in some of the never repaired, post industrial zones, that Westminster abandoned long ago, I realised that the chronic under equipment of “our boys” was in fact government policy, they simply don’t care about the individual lives of young guys and girls, that have been deluded by them into feeling patriotism for a country and a system that clearly feels nothing but ownership of them. Since leaving the armed forces, with considerable mental debilitation, I’ve gone from job to job, nothing lasting that long, and in between times, been either unemployed or unemployable and have seen the way the UK state

galling to see how quickly so much of the progress made has been undone. George Osborne’s austerity agenda is deeply damaging for public services, the welfare state is being destroyed, and wages for ordinary working people have fallen sharply. Most disturbing of all, Conservative/Lib Dem policies are set to push 100,000 more children in Scotland into poverty by 2020, according to the Child Poverty Action Group. As part of the UK, even when we take one step forward, we can be guaranteed two steps back will soon follow. Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont has already confirmed to the BBC that she would stand in the first elections to an independent Scottish Parliament in May 2016. And in their vision document “Together we can”, she confirms that the ideas the party sets out there “would still be our ambitions for Scotland if the country was to vote for independence in September”. A Yes vote means that we will always get the governments we vote for. Working together in Scotland, we can build a better future for our country.

treats those that either have the misfortune to be too ill to work, and have been one of the masses of people that the government has decided, in it’s wisdom; must be unemployed at any one time, because make no mistake, high unemployment is government policy, it was almost unheard of in this country, before Thatcher moved the political landscape of this country towards the NeoLiberal orthodoxy. This is wrong! Those people in “power”, are actually in office, and they are supposed to work for us, but they don’t, they work for their corporate sponsors, they work for those companies that offer them lucrative non executive directorships in exchange for policies that suit those companies, at the expense of the people that they are supposed to work for. I don’t know what straw finally broke the camel’s back, in

WE’RE 18 months away from the time when, if the Nationalists get their way, Scotland would be an independent state. Yet with less than two months until we cast the most important vote of our lives, the Nationalists have no answers when it comes to welfare. It is one of the many issues where the Nationalists don’t have answers to the questions they are being asked. Despite having campaigned for this moment for 80 years, the Nationalists have no answers when it comes to the spend on our welfare system, no answers on the additional costs spent on administration and no answer on what currency benefits would be paid in. The Nationalists are wanting people in Glasgow and across Scotland

terms of my wish for independence, there’s been so many. The cruel inhumane social policies, the illegal wars, the continual sell off of our people’s birthright to the highest bidder (or just their mates), the fact that there is barely a whisper between the more important policies of all the “major” UK parties, or the fact that our country has essentially no say in whichever of them returns to “power” every five years, as we’re simply outvoted, or any number of other things that there’s no room to mention here. I want a new Scotland, with no entrenched “powers that be”, with a constitution that reflects the wants, desires, and aspirations of our people, a flexible system, that at it’s core has the interests of the people at it’s heart. And I don’t think that’s too much to ask. I’ve never been party political,

to take a huge gamble and, as usual, it is the ones with the most to lose that will be hit hardest by the SNP’s separation obsession. It’s almost as if Alex Salmond is more interested in winning the referendum than helping the people that need it the most. He also ignores the fact that what we currently have works. Social security is ultimately a form of insurance - it works better for everyone when risks and costs are pooled and shared across a wider population. As part of the UK we get higher spend on pensions and benefits than the rest of the UK. Yet the Nationalists are asking us to walk away from this but can’t provide us with information on how they would fund benefits or even how they would be paid. The pooling and sharing resources is one of the biggest benefits of being part of the UK. Whether it is in Springburn or Swindon or Maryhill or Manchester, we know that the cost of paying benefits is best protected by being spread across the broad shoulders of the UK. Turning our backs on the people of the UK will make the lives of many worse not better. Leaving the UK would be a leap in the dark for those reliant on benefits or their pension. Our welfare system is better as part of the UK. We want to keep it that way. By saying No Thanks to separation we can make sure that we protect the most vulnerable in our society from the massive cuts that would have to happen in a separate Scotland.

and I’m not now, I don’t support any particular party. I hope though, for a new kind of society, where people come first, and to that end; I, for the very first time, have not only registered to vote for the first time, but am actively canvassing and campaigning for Independence, and there are thousands more like me. Yes! to a future, because all we will get with a No, is an even more dystopian version of the past, and that was bad enough. Martin McMillan. Ordinary Scotsman. Dear Editor As a proud brit, I hate the idea of Britain being torn apart by Salmond. We have shown the world, and continue to show the world that Britain is a world leader. Why would anyone want to break that up?

I don’t want to live in a third world country. I don’t want to risk my pension. I want the security of bigger armed forces and shared resources. I plead with eveyone to vote NO! I’d hate to think of the consequences otherwise. David Knox via email

WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR VIEWS email: editor@ thegenn.co.uk

GENN Parliamentary Patter

Bob Doris MSP WITH Parliament in recess, I have been able to spend much of the last few weeks out on the stump meeting people across north Glasgow to discuss the forthcoming Independence Referendum. I’m hugely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to talk with me about on the doorstep about Scotland’s future. From these conversations, it’s clear that the vast majority of families want better for the city and for Scotland than the current system offers. It is widely acknowledged that Glasgow’s communities are among the most likely to vote Yes across Scotland. However, it has been my discussions with undecided voters that have been the most illuminating. Often, I find that such voters would like to vote yes, but are looking for reassurance on a number of aspects. Talking to them, I am increasingly convinced that there is a natural majority for independence in principle. This

is why the No campaign has focused so heavily on scare tactics. Nothing better sums up that alarmist campaign than Gordon Brown. He claimed this week that, after independence, the UK-wide transplant system would be at risk – despite NHS Blood and Transplant, the body which runs that system, categorically stating the complete opposite last year. Likewise, the No campaign are constantly raising fears over pensions. But even the DWP have confirmed that pensions will be safe after independence. The Scottish Government also stated there will be at least a 2.5% cash rise each year, and we may well have a lower retirement age in Scotland than England. Gordon Brown should heed this, given that it was he who raided our pension funds, lowering the value of many Scots work pensions. Another favourite story from the No campaign – that Scot-

land will have problems with EU membership – lies in ruins. The new EU Commission President, Jean-Claude Juncker, flatly contradicted scare stories that we would need wait to join the EU. He noted that Scotland would be a “special case” as we have already met “core EU requirements”. As more scare stories bite the dust, local undecided voters – particularly traditional Labour voters – are moving to Yes. Seven key figures behind the famous 1970s Upper Clyde shipyard work-in have said that independence will be beneficial to shipbuilding. Before his sad passing, Jimmy Reid himself was a confirmed Yes voter. As I told one voter recently: the last time Scotland was asked to vote No by the UK parties (including Labour) was in the 1979 devolution referendum. We were promised that a No would get us a better deal. Scotland actually voted for devolution, but this

your Member of the Scottish Parliament

Bob Doris MSP For Glasgow Region [SNP]

Contact Bob Doris MSP

Constituency office: 3rd Floor, Empire House 131 West Nile Street Glasgow G1 2RX was ignored because the UK decided we hadn’t done so by a big enough margin. Far from a

0141 353 0784 bob.doris.msp@scottish.parliament.uk www.bobdoris.org twitter.com/GlasgowMSP facebook.com/bob.doris.msp

better deal, what we ended up with was four Conservative governments and no devolution for

twenty years. That formerly undecided voter is now voting Yes.

INDY NHS CONCERNS

The role of an elected member within Parliament is one of great importance within the local community. It is therefore also of great importance that each member, whether Councillor or MSP, is able to provide a constant train of information demonstrating their leadership abilities and their plans for the community. At the Genn, we want to provide them with a platform which can be used to convey that information to your constituents and the public at large. The Political Representation Forum is open to all elected members and allows you to connect with all parts of the community ensuring that everyone is represented fairly and equally. This will also allow them to address local concerns in a public manner and provide information on the political demands currently facing their ward. By taking part in our monthly forum they can be part of the Genn’s voice in the community, encouraging wider communication and engagement with their constituency and creating an open discussion regarding the betterment of the community and plans for the future. This is a no cost forum designed to run alongside the Surgery Adverts

GENN Glasgow East and North News

THE debate on how to protect the National Health Service was reopened this week following completely misleading comments from Gordon Brown. It was reported that the former PM suggested that the UKwide organ transplant system would be at risk following a Yes vote. This is despite NHS Blood and Transplant, who run the system, confirming last year in a letter to a Tory MSP that the system would remain unchanged following independence. Mr Brown’s attack has drawn attention to where differences do exist between the various UK NHS systems, and how a No vote would expose Scotland’s NHS to significant financial risk. This follows Mr Brown’s Labour colleague Andy Burnham, the shadow Health Secretary, calling last September for the NHS to be uniform across the UK, opening Scotland up to the likes of prescription charges and NHS privatisation. Even as things stand, it is already estimated that NHS privatisation through Westminster’s Health and Social Care Act will cost the Scottish NHS up to £100m a year unless there is a Yes vote in September. Commenting on Brown’s ill-founded attack, Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow and Deputy Chair of the Scottish Parliament’s Health and Sport committee, said: “I’m all for Gordon Brown playing a positive role in the

referendum debate. However, this spurious scaremongering about the transplant system is completely ill-advised and ill-informed. Independence will not affect the system, as has been stated categorically by NHS Blood and Transplant who run the system on a pan-UK basis. If Mr Brown wants to discuss putting the NHS at risk, he may want to look at UK Labour’s plans to have the same NHS system right across the UK. That would open the door in Scotland to prescription charges and privatisation. Even as things stand, Scotland is already looking at a cut of up to £100m a year to our NHS budget because much of the English NHS has been privatised. That is how the Barnett Formula works: cuts in England have direct implications for the Scottish budget. “In the spirit of an open and informed debate on Scotland’s future, I hope that Scotland’s Labour MSPs will reject Gordon Brown’s false assertions about the transplant system. They must also reject Andy Burnham’s desire to bring a charging regime and privatisation agenda to Scotland. If England cut public spending on the NHS at Westminster, the axe will still fall on Scotland’s budget. It is becoming increasingly clear that only with a Yes vote in September and independence can we truly protect Scotland’s NHS.”

GENN Welfare Reform

CHILDREN CONCERN A COALITION of third sector children’s services providers has warned vulnerable young people will be left without support unless recruitment of trained specialists is stepped up. The call, by the Scottish Children’s Services Coalition (SCSC), comes as new figures from Health Scotland show just five out of 13 training places for doctors in child and adolescent psychiatry were filled. In addition, just one doctor was recruited for nine available training slots caring for people with learning disabilities. Since 2011 only 22% of vacancies for doctors caring for those with learning disabilities has been filled and just over half have been filled for those dealing with child and adolescent psychiatry. Alex Orr, spokesman for SCSC, said: “Waiting times will undoubtedly increase and we are heading for a real ticking timebomb when it comes to the delivery of psychiatry and psychologist services. Waiting times will undoubtedly increase and we are heading for a real ticking timebomb when it comes to the delivery of psychiatry and psychologist services “High level strategic management is required in order to get a grip on the situation and we will be writing to the Scottish Government, urging it to act quickly to address this shortfall in numbers.” According to the figures, one in every 10 children had to wait up to 26 weeks before being seen by a psychiatrist or mental health professional. Other research shows pupils requiring additional support in schools has increased sharply, a situation that has arose out of greater awareness of conditions such as autism.

POOREST HIT WITH WELFARE CUTS WIDE-RANGING cuts are changing the shape of welfare support at a time when rising prices are making it harder for families to make ends meet. A new report by Oxfam and the New Policy Institute (NPI) shows 82,000 of the poorest families in Scotland have seen their incomes cut over the past three years. The majority of cuts in Scotland have been related to housing benefits, with 54,000 households affected by the bedroom tax, 27,000 households seeing a reduction in the limits on local housing allowance (LHA) and 1,000 households affected by the overall benefit cap. It is unacceptable that the poorest are paying such a heavy price - Jamie Livingstone While the welfare state provides the

very poorest households with a guaranteed income to cover normal day-to-day expenses, the report shows that in the last two years the value of that income has risen below inflation. And cuts to council tax benefit and housing benefit mean that the poorest families are hit hardest, leaving them with less money for essentials such as food and energy. The impact of the cuts has been to some extent mitigated by the Scottish Government, which recently announced plans to effectively abolish the bedroom tax by providing money to offset the reform through the discretionary housing fund. However, Oxfam is now calling on the UK government to determine what the absolute minimum level of support

should be for households. Oxfam says government support for families must be high enough to ensure those reliant upon it are not on the breadline. Jamie Livingstone, head of Oxfam Scotland, said it was little wonder people were turning to food banks in deeply worrying numbers, with others struggling with rent, council tax and childcare. “At a time when the five richest families in the UK have the same wealth as the bottom 20% of the population it is unacceptable that the poorest are paying such a heavy price.” Across the UK a total of 300,000 households have seen a cut in housing benefit, 920,000 have seen a cut in council tax support and 480,000 have

seen a cut in both. In the last year alone, 400,000 households have been pushed further into poverty by cuts to housing benefit or council tax support. Households affected by both of these cuts typically lose around £18 per week. Tom MacInnes, research director at NPI and the report’s author, said welfare was a safety net that was now failing. He said: “They’re are two parts to the safety net. One is the means-tested cash benefit such as jobseeker’s allowance, which is rising by less than prices.The other is the benefits that help pay for specific unavoidable costs. “This is where cuts have been targeted and where the greatest damage to the safety net is being done.

WELFARE CRISIS FUND UNDERSPEND

THE Scottish Government has been accused of failing the most vulnerable after it was revealed more than 10% of a fund set up last year to help those in need was not spent. Grants totalling £29 million were handed out by the Scottish Welfare Fund in 2013-14, amounting to 88% of the £33 million that was available. Crisis grants, aimed at providing a safety net for people in the event of a disaster or an emergency, worth a total of £5.8 million were paid out last year. A further £23.1 million was paid out in community care grants, which go to help people live independently rather than go into institutional care. More than 80,000 households were helped by the payments, including nearly 26,000 families with children. Scottish Government figures show that 82,200 crisis grants were paid out to some 56,000 households, while 36,000 community care grants were awarded to 33,000 applicants - with some people receiving

both types of support. The Scottish Government said about half the cash that was paid out had gone to people in Scotland’s most deprived areas. Through the work of our services and the increase in demand for foodbanks, we know that there are too many vulnerable families who could be making use of this lifeline, but who are not accessing it. Jackie Baillie, Labour’s welfare spokeswoman, said the figures provide “ further evidence that this Government is completely inept at getting resources to the people who need them most, and offers a worrying glimpse into how much worse it would be with an SNP Government in an independent Scotland”. She hit out: “ Not nearly enough is being done to support the most vulnerable people in our society and, with more than 12% of the budget left unspent, the Scottish Government must do more to ensure that support is given to those who need it most.

“The SNP are failing vulnerable people and, with increased sanctions and confusion caused by the repeated changes to the application criteria, they need to stop obsessing about the referendum and focus on ensuring that the £4 million under-spend is allocated to individuals and families who desperately need support.” The fund was launched by the Scottish Government on April 1 last year to replace community care grants and crisis loans, which were abolished by the UK Government under its welfare reform programme. A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “ During its first year in operation the Scottish Welfare Fund has helped more than 80,000 households, including 26,000 families with children. “A total of £29 million was allocated to households, providing a vital safety net to those in disaster and emergency situations. “The funding is reaching those in the most deprived areas of Scotland, with around

50% being awarded to applicants living in the 20% most deprived areas in Scotland. “ It is absolutely imperative that vulnerable people in Scotland are protected and supported during these tough economic times. Welfare is a reserved matter, but we will do everything we can to make sure that people are being helped during their time of need. “ Around £4 million funding has been rolled forward into the fund for 2014-15, bringing the total fund available for the year to £37 million. “These figures represent the first year of the Scottish Welfare Fund. While spend was lower in the early part of the year, the statistics show that the changes we made to the guidance last October are working, and that momentum is building. “More people are now being helped each month compared to the early days of the scheme, with local authorities spending around £20 million on the scheme between October and March - more than double the

amount spent in during the first six months of the fund.” The fund was set up after the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) transferred almost £24 million of funding to the Scottish Government after it ended its community care grants and crisis loans. The Scottish Government then contributed just over £9 million, taking the fund up to its £33 million total. A DWP spokeswoman said: “ It’s good news that our reforms to the Social Fund and the millions we gave to the Scottish Government are now helping vulnerable people receive the protection and care they need. “We reformed the old system because it had become too complex and poorly targeted. We transferred the current annual funding for crisis loans for living expenses and for community care grants to the Scottish Government, who received the full programme budget, in addition to administration and start-up costs, amounting to almost £24 million.”

32 Police Scotland

Fire Hydrant Warning

Local Police News

POLICE Scotland is appealing for parents to highlight the dangers of setting off fire hydrants to their children. Chief Inspector Stevie Hazlett, Area Commander for Glasgow East, said “It has been an unacceptable tradition for children to set off fire hydrants in the summer months. This clearly presents a danger to the children but also to the greater community at large, as fire fighters are required to attend and turn off the hydrants when their services could be required saving lives elsewhere.” Aside from the danger caused by the letting off of the hydrant, fire fighters may experience a drop in water pressure in the surrounding area, and if called upon to extinguish a real fire, potentially endangering the lives of those most in need. Chief Inspector Hazlett added, “I would encourage all parents to educate the very real threat to peoples lives this behaviour causes and ask them to discourage any activity of this kind.”

Drug Dealing in our Community

GENN Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111

LOCAL officers continue to target drug dealers in our communities using a variety of intelligence gathering sources to ensure that these individuals are pursued relentlessly. Drug dealers would have us believe that they operate with impunity and will use the network of their criminal associates to have the community believe that they are role models for our young people. This could not be further from the truth, Area Commander Stevie Hazlett has revealed that “With the assistance of our communities we are taking the fight back to these drug dealers and seizing their drugs, assets and even their homes in order to disrupt their ability to have a negative influence on our streets. Since the first of April we have targeted and charged criminals with over 50 charges relating to being in possession or concerned in the supply of controlled drugs in the North and East of the city.” Recent notable successes have involved the seizure of 156,000 valium tablets from a house in Easterhouse, several kilogrammes of amphetamine and numerous cannabis cultivations in domestic houses throughout

the area. Chief Inspector Hazlett continued “The community in every one of the 3 Wards in my command area identified drug dealing as the number one priority which causes them the greatest concern. I have tasked my officers with going through the door of every drug dealer identified by the community in order that we take a clear message from the community that drugs are not wanted here. Drug dealers can be absolutely clear that we intend to keep the pressure on them and limit their ability to harm our community.” Apart from the obvious harm that drugs bring there are other risks, especially those associated with cannabis cultivations, which also endanger peoples lives. These cultivations, or ‘farms’, are often found in flats and tenement properties and present a clear fire hazard to surrounding properties and their occupants. The people responsible will often by pass the electric meter and the associated build up of heat and humidity associated with the growing conditions required present a real danger of fire which could rapidly spread. If anyone has information on drug dealing activity or is suspicious of a house or premise which has blacked out widows and notices pungent smells accompanied by the sounds of fans and electrical equipment running contact the police on 101 and report the matter or confidentially and anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Thefts of car keys

POLICE Scotland are reminding householders to lock their doors and windows at night to prevent them becoming the victims of crime. There have been a number of thefts from houses recently in Robroyston and Millerston and on many occasions the thieves have not had to overcome the house security, as doors and windows have been left open or unlocked. The thieves have been targeting car keys and then stealing cars from driveways. Chief Inspector Stevie Hazlett, Area Commander for Glasgow East has advised, “During the good weather we all use our back gardens a lot more and will not be used to locking up before we go to bed in the same way we do in the winter. I would urge everyone to get into the habit of checking that their doors and downstairs win-

dows are closed and secured before going to bed and make sure you put your house and car keys in a safe place out of view, do not leave them in the lock.” He also added, “In the warm summer nights there is a temptation to leave downstairs windows open for fresh air, we have arrested a number of people who specialise in climbing through open hopper windows, my advice is to close all ground floor windows at night.” There have been further incidents recently whereby canes and poles have been placed through letterboxes in order to ‘fish’ keys out from porches and hallways. Officers from Shettleston, Baillieston and Easterhouse police offices are patrolling through the night in uniform and also plain clothes in order to reduce the instance of this invasive crime. Officers from Police Scotland working with colleagues from Community Safety Glasgow have carried out letter drops to the areas affect which contain simple crime prevention advice which will deter thieves. Copies of the advice letters are placed below.

Urgent Police Notice from North East Community Police Team

DEAR residents, recently there have been a number of incidents in your area involving thefts from houses and motor vehicles. These crimes generally are happening overnight & early hours of the morning. A common method has been to gain access via open or insecure windows or doors obtain the car keys and then steal the cars and other items. Another method is to use a fishing rod type implement through windows or letter boxes to obtain the car keys which have been lying in plain view. Please be reassured that this area is receiving significant dedicated patrols by both police officers in uniform and also plain clothes. We have officers dedicated to resolving the matter and will use all means possible to prevent further incidents and to detect and arrest offenders. We would encourage any suspicious behaviour to be continued to be reported immediately to the police to allow for a prompt response, by calling 101 or in emergency 999. Please

note the following advice in respect of this type of crimes. ALWAYS REMEMBER PERSONAL SAFETY. DO NOT CHALLENGE ANY SUSPECTS. Your home • Adopt a nightly routine within the household to ensure you and your family are safe and well. • Be especially vigilant prior to going to bed check doors and windows are locked, especially during the summer period when widows are opened for ventilation, even if only popping out for a minute secure all doors and windows. • If an alarm is fitted to the house please activate this prior to retiring for the night or when leaving the premises empty. If going on holiday ask a neighbour to keep an eye on your house. • Do not leave keys in the door overnight. Avoid leaving car keys or valuables within easy reach or visible through a window or door, to prevent fishing them out through the letterbox. • Secure all keys out of sight, preferably upstairs • Use key operated locks on your windows (this increases the time a burglar takes to get in a window and increases the chance of them being caught). • Don’t leave spare house or car keys hidden outside. When going out use a timer switch for your lights and consider leaving a radio on. • Avoid leaving tools, ladders or other item in your garden that can be used to break into your home. • Ensure fencing around your home is maintained and keep gates sheds and garages locked. • Consider property marking your valuables, this makes it easier to identify if recovered. • Be vigilant and keep an eye out for your neighbours and their property. If you hear any disturbances during the night adopt a good neighbour policy and look out for your neighbours. Cars • Ensure the vehicle is locked and secure whilst unattended. • Avoid leaving possessions within your car if this is not possible then lock them in the boot out of sight. • Consider an alarm, immobiliser or tracking device for your car, if fitted ensure activated, have the windows etched with the VRM and VIN number • Do not leave sat navs within your vehicle and remove suction cup marks from the windscreen. • This information provides Crime Prevention advice only and cannot in any way be a

guarantee that any further crimes will not occur. If any further crime prevention advice is required or you would like a crime prevention survey of your home, please do not hesitate to contact your local police office by telephoning 101 or if urgent dial 999. You can also contact your local police team to discuss local issues on the following email: NorthEastCPT@scotland.pnn. police.uk. The email address should not be used to report ongoing incidents.

Commonwealth Games

THE opening ceremony is nearly upon us which will be followed by 11 days of competition in 17 different sports. Many of the venues are located in the East End of the City such as Celtic Park, The Emirates Arena and the Hockey Centre in addition to the live site at Glasgow Green. These venues will inevitably bring an influx of people to the area from all corners of the globe to enjoy the event but there will be a very small minority who will see an opportunity for criminal behaviour If we look at the Olympic Games in London they experienced an increase in theft during the period of the games as members of the public tended to carry more items of value on their person and with the good weather, were more inclined to leave doors and windows open in their homes or vehicles. Chief Inspector David Pettigrew at London Police Office said “the Games is a prestigious event for Glasgow and will bring many people to the city. During this time please make sure that you keep valuable items such as phones or cameras safe on your person. When you leave your car parked please make sure that valuables are not left on display” Chief Inspector Pettigrew added “The weather looks like it will be favourable during the games but please be aware that windows and doors left open present opportunities to thieves”

North Glasgow Operation

Over the last month Sgt Donald Hay, along with three other officers from the Community Police Team at Maryhill Police Office have been deployed in the Possil and Saracen area of Glasgow. The main objective during this period has been to reduce alcohol fuelled violent crime and anti-social behaviour in the

local community. Having spoken to members of the public, business owners and acting upon feedback from Community Council meetings a key issue has been a small group of persistent offenders who were responsible for the majority of anti-social behaviour in the area. These offences included consuming alcohol in public places, general disorder, vandalism and possession of drugs. Over the past month Sgt Hay and his team have utilised a number of tactics to stop and engage with these offenders to ensure that they have less of a negative impact on the community. These tactics have included high visibility foot patrols in the area, providing an enhanced Police presence. They are routinely engaged with groups of youths loitering to find out why they are in the area. This has lead to nearly one hundred people being searched and twenty eight people being reported or issued with fixed penalty tickets for anti-social behaviour. Violent crime remains a very high priority for Police Scotland, and has been highlighted as an issue by members of the Possil and Saracen community. Another tactic used has been to visit licensed premises to ensure that they are complying with the current licensing legislation, ensuring that alcohol isn’t getting into the wrong hands. A key factor in violent crime is the consumption of alcohol. By ensuring that his team are engaging with people and removing alcohol from them they are preventing alcohol fuelled violence later in the evening. Over the coming months Sgt Hay and his team will liaise with local housing officers to identify the repeat offenders of anti-social behaviour and conduct joint meetings regarding the offender’s tenancy, to ensure that they do not have a continued negative impact upon their community. Anyone who has any information or concerns regarding the above issues mentioned to contact Police Scotland on 101 or contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

GENN

GENN Assault in St. Enoch Square

POLICE Scotland is continuing enquiries and appealing for witnesses after a 16 year-old woman was assaulted in Glasgow city centre on Saturday 12 July 2014. Around 0100 hours on Saturday morning, two women aged 16 and 19 years were approached by a man in St Enochs Square, Glasgow who verbally abused them. The man then assaulted the 16 year-old woman. She was taken by ambulance to Glasgow Royal Infirmary where she was treated for a facial injury then later released. Superintendent Alan Porte of Glasgow City Centre Police Office said today: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing into this incident which is being treated as a homophobic crime. Officers are continuing to study CCTV footage in an effort to gather more information on the suspect. He is described as around 20 years of age with red hair and 6ft in height. He was wearing blue jeans, a white t-shirt and had a black rucksack. “Anyone with information that may assist police enquiries

www.facebook.com/gennnews should contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

Digger Crime in Dalmarnock Appeal

POLICE Scotland is appealing for witnesses to an incident in the Community Garden to the rear of Baltic Street in Dalmarnock near to the Commonwealth Village Perimeter fence. At about 1030pm on Saturday 5th July a mechanical digger that was being used for some development work on the play park and the Community Garden was deliberately set on fire causing significant damage and hindering the work on this community resource. Two males believed to be responsible were seen running away from the play park at the material time and Police Scotland appeal for any witnesses or any information that would help to identify those responsible to contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be treated in confidence.

GENN

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Suspect a stroke? Think FAST! The main aim of the FAST campaign is to help people recognise the symptoms of a stroke - and to think FAST. With over 12,000 people in Scotland having a stroke every year, it is essential that people can recognise a stroke when it’s happening and take prompt action.

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To help people recognise the symptoms of stroke quickly, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is promoting FAST - the Face Arm Speech Test - which is used by paramedics to diagnose stroke prior to a person being admitted to hospital. By diagnosing the possibility of stroke before reaching hospital, it is possible for appropriate referral to a stroke unit to be made as quickly as possible.

What is FAST? FAST requires an assessment of three specific symptoms of stroke. • Facial weakness - can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped? • Arm weakness - can the person raise both arms? • Speech problems - can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? • Time - to call 999 If someone has failed any of these tests it is crucial to call 999. Stroke is a medical emergency and by calling 999 you can help someone reach hospital quickly and receive the early treatment they need. Prompt action can prevent further damage to the brain and help someone make a full recovery. Delay can result in death or major long term disabilities, such as paralysis, severe memory loss and communication problems.

GENN

ACADEMY HONOUR COACHING STAFF

GENN SPORT EXCLUSIVE

RECOGNITION for a job well done - Shot Stoppers Goalkeeping Academy coaches display boxed silver salvers on their 20th Anniversary - From left - Stevie Cameron, Stephen Bryceland, Christopher Todd and Jonathan Fyfe. FOUR local coaches have been honoured for their work at Scotland’s oldest goalkeeping set-up. Having recently celebrated their 20th Anniversary - on a special promotional day with 3QSPORTS.co.uk at the National Centre, Largs - Shot Stoppers Academy officials presented boxed silver salvers to their group coaches. Stevie Cameron and Stephen Bryceland (Group One), Jonathan Fyfe (Group Two ), and Christopher Todd (Group Three) were rewarded for their service, which collectively stands at over 40 years at grassroots level. Said Stephen Bryceland: “That was completely unexpected, but we are all delighted with the gesture.

“The involvement with Mr Steven Reid (Reidy),of 3QSPORTS.co.uk, was also tremendous, and greatly appreciated. “I have seen many changes here in my 10 years. You have to keep evolving, and I believe Shot Stoppers has done that in the face of competition from a number of different sources. “It is not only important to have good goalkeepers in place to work with, but more importantly the support of their parents. That has never been an issue here, and we want to thank everyone who has backed Shot Stoppers since it was founded in 1994. “A lot of credit must also go to previous Academy coaches

- Martin McFadyen, George Payne, Jimmy Hayes, Kevin Bell and George Walker - for their part in the Shot Stoppers success story.” In a remarkable 20-year span, around 90 goalkeepers have made the transition into junior and senior football, and over 240 items of silverware including every honour in Boys’ Club football - have arrived at the Academy via the talented prospects they helped develop. On a wider scale, women’s football, the amateurs and junior football goalkeepers have also received badly-needed specialist coaching. For more information, check out their website: www.clubwebsite.co.uk/shotstoppersgoalkeeping or on twitter: @ shot_stoppersgk

Hello Tom, Issue 132 once again gave a comprehensive coverage of bowling. I have enclosed results relating to Shettleston Bowling Club. I hope this information is useful to you. Keep up the good work. Ian Colligan, Shettleston Bowling Club, 53/59 Culrain

Street, Shettleston. Hi Tom, On behalf of Finnart, can I extend our sincere thanks to you and everyone involved behind the scenes at the GENN newspaper for helping to promote our club during season 2013-2014. I hope the paper continues to flourish. Over the months it has im-

proved beyond recognition well done to everyone. Following our team’s presentation evening, can I also thank James McArthur (Wigan Athletic), Joe Morris (DM Energy Solutions), and Stuart Lowe (Punisher Gym) for their excellent support. Kind Regards, Jamie McGowan, Under-14 Coach.

SATURDAY, JULY 12 Wishaw HSFP 1, Finnart 1. SATURDAY, JULY 26 - Postal United v Haldane (Crownpoint); Kelty Hearts v Petershill; Aikenhead Thistle v Garrowhill Thistle (Summerston); St Roch v Queens Park; Troon v Shettleston; Cambusnethan Talbot v Maryhill Black Star. MONDAY, JULY 28 - Ashfield v Rob Roy; St Roch v Tynecastle A.F.C.; Shettleston v Shotts Bon Accord. WEDNESDAY, JULY 30 - Ashfield v Largs Thistle;

Auchinleck Talbot v Shettleston; St Roch v St Anthony; Irvine Meadow v Vale of Clyde. SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 Newtongrange Star v Petershill; Livingston v St Roch; Renfrew Thistle v Postal United; Garrowhill Thistle v Erskine Ams; Shettleston v Clydebank. MONDAY, AUGUST 4 Giffnock North v Postal United. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 - Electric A.F.C. v Postal United. FIXTURES correct at the time of the GENN going to press.

Check with your club over kick-off times and possible game changes. West Region junior clubs kick-off the new football season with the Euroscot Engineering Sectional League Cup on Saturday, August 9 (2pm). All league games commence on Saturday, August 30 (2pm). Look out for the big preview as GENN Sport brings you an exclusive look at what is happening from Ashfield, Glasgow Perthshire, Maryhill, Petershill, St Roch, Shettleston, and Vale of Clyde.

GENN SPORTS FEEDBACK

PRE-SEASON GAMES

AWARDS NIGHT - Finnart Boys’ Club Under-14 and their coaches at the Presentation Evening.

WIGAN STAR SUPPORTS FINNART

WIGAN Athletic and Scotland internationalist James McArthur has continued his support of Finnart Boys’ Club. The former Hamilton Accies midfielder not only donated a Wigan top, but also autographed every Finnart player’s jersey worn by the Under-14 team last season. The double boost was revealed during Finnart’s Player of the Year presentation evening in Bridgeton. Coach Jamie McGowan told GENN SPORT: “On a visit to

see James against Leeds United near the end of last season, I arranged for him to sign the strips, and also some other shirts. “All the boys received the jersey they wore last season every one donated originally by James - in a wonderful gesture of support. “His Wigan top went into a raffle on the night. James has helped our cause with other donations over a period of time, and we would like to thank him for all the support.”

Meanwhile, Finnart Under-14 defender Ryan Madden scooped three top awards - Manager’s Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Referee’s Man of the Match. Other end-of-season honours were as follows: Top Goalscorer - William Gray, Most Improved Player - Kalvin Rooney, Blackpool Player of the Tournament Jamie McGowan Jnr, and Regional Select Winner - Connor McKenzie.

INSIDE FOOTBALL ROUND-UP BROOMHOUSE F.C. and CRANHILL UNITED are chasing more silverware - this time at club tournament level. ‘House are playing in the East Kilbride Y.M.F.C. annual event, which they won in 2013. Finnart Star A.F.C. and Blochairn Star A.F.C. are also participating. GROUP 1 - Busby, East Kilbride Y.M., Eaglesham and Hamilton F.P. GROUP 2 Duncanrig, Rutherglen Ams, E.K. Y.M.Caley, and Finnart Star. GROUP 3 - Giffnock Ams, Broomhouse F.C., Dynamo E.K. and Castlemilk. GROUP 4 - Centre A.F.C., Blochairn Star, Shawlands and Claremont. One package of fixtures have already taken place as the GENN went to press. The next action is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, and is as follows: VENUE: Hamilton Palace. Duncanrig v E.K.YM Caley (11am); Rutherglen v Finnart

Star (1 pm); Busby v Eaglesham (3pm); E.K.Y.M v Hamilton F.P. (5pm). VENUE: Ballerup, East Kilbride. Centre A.F.C. v Shawlands (11am); Blochairn Star v Claremont (1pm); Giffnock v Dynamo E.K. (3pm) and Broomhouse v Castlemilk (5pm). Another programme of games are due on Saturday, August 2. At Ballerup, Finnart play Duncanrig (1pm). Over at Hamilton Palace, it’s the turn of Broomhouse v Dynamo E.K. (3pm) and Blochairn Star v Shawlands (5pm). Semi-Final action switches to Lochinch Playing Fields. TUESDAY, AUGUST 5 Winner of Group 1 v Winner of Group 2. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 - Winner of Group 3 v Winner of Group 4. Both kickoffs are 7pm. The same venue will host the 3rd/4th Play-off at 12 noon,

plus the final (kick-off 2pm) on SUNDAY, AUGUST 10. Meanwhile, the CRANHILL TOURNAMENT is being sponsored by the Anderson McMillan Club. RESULTS: WEEK ONE Cranhill 4, Glasgow Rangers 2; Easthall 3, Northend 0; Westercommon 4 Glasgow Rovers 0; Eastend Ath 6, Springhall Spartans 2. WEEK TWO - Cranhill 4, Easthall 2; Northend 6. Glasgow Rangers 2; Westercommon 3, Eastend Ath 3. Glasgow Rovers 3, Springhall Spartans 2. WEEK THREE - Northend v Cranhill; Glasgow Rangers v Easthall; Westercommon v Springhall Spartans; Eastend Ath v Glasgow Rovers. SEMI-FINALS are scheduled for Sunday, July 27. Cranhill United start their competitive season, in the Sunday Central Amateur Football League, on August 10.

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AROUND THE GREENS I hope all the Culrain Street representatives do themselves proud at Northfield - from Monday, August 4 onwards - and Club Official Ian Colligan summed up the situation perfectly when he told me: “Four winners representing Shettleston is a tremendous achievement.” Thanks to Mr Colligan, I now have a round-up of the various club competitions at Shettleston Bowling Club. May 4 - Mixed Pairs: Winners - D McKenna and A Laing. Runners-Up - C and J Lindsay. May 18 - TCB Invitation Fours: Winners - R McMillan, W Murdoch, P McConachie, I Beattie. June 8 -Cairns and Scott Invitation Triples: Winners -Houldsworth B.C. (J Strachan skip). Runners-Up- Foxley (E Liddell skip). June 22 - Nominated Triples: Winners - M Young, A Doughty and R Kinloch Jr. Runners-Up - R King, A Rooney and R Melrose.

SHETTLESTON are aiming to make a big impact during the National Finals at Northfield, Ayr, next month, writes JACK HIGH. And who can blame anyone at Culrain Street from not being optimistic over their prospects in FOUR bowling competitions? During the SBA District Finals recently, Shettleston were successful through the following bowlers. Junior Singles - S Deighan beat his opponent from Belvidere. Mixed Pairs - A Laing and D McKenna beat opponents from North British. Ladies Singles - won by M McMillan. Ladies Pairs - won by C Cochrane and M White. Can I also add to this success story. A Laing had an excellent victory at the West of Scotland Ladies Singles Final this month. In the G.B.A. Semi-Finals at Rutherglen, Shettleston bowler Ian Beattie lost 21-16 against his opponent from Busby.

June 29 - P Fannan Mixed Fours: Winners - A and A Laing, D Melrose and D McKenna from Shettleston. Runners-Up -Blackhill. SHETTLESTON DIARY: August 1 - Ladies’ Millenum Fours; August 8 - N.E.L. Jubilee Trophy; August 9 - Milton of Campsie Game; August 10 - Seniors One-Day Game. GARROWHILL Bowling Club have the Glasgow Cup (August 9), Ladies’ Open Day (August 10), and Seniors - Friendly Fours (August 11). Well done the GARROWHILL FOURS’ line-up of Ian McDougall, Roddy Thomson, Eddie Drummond, and Alex Morrison for their brilliant 16-12 win against Yarrow in the G.B.A. Finals at Kingswood Bowling Club earlier this month. CARMYLE Triples were also in superb form. They managed to defeat Rutherglen 18-16 in their final at the same venue.

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COMING SOON - A full round-up from the Under-21 League Annual General Meeting, and their formation - Premier, First and Second Divisions - for season 2014-2015.

email: sport@thegenn.co.uk

CITY KIDS WIN SILVER MEDALS

BASKETBALL silver medal winners at the Lagoon Leisure Centre, Paisley. Left to right,: Coach Andy Sinclair, Kyle Maxwell, Sam Freeman (Cuckoo), Kieran Man, Stephen Sinclair, Ethan McDade, Nathan Galloway, Innes MacDonald (Cuckoo), James Sinclair, Euan Diatta, Ethan Johnston, and Lyle Neeson (Cuckoo). EIGHT players from a Shettleston-based basketball club helped Glasgow’s Development Group win silver medals at the Under-12 (boys) National Challenge in Paisley. Glasgow City Basketball Club , who train at Eastbank, were handed the representative honour alongside three other players from Southsiders, Cuckoo. In another boost, GCBC coach Andy Sinclair was handed the job of working with the squad, and he admitted: “The boys played exciting basketball and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of competing at the Lagoon Leisure Centre.” The tournament, run by Basketball Scotland, brought together the top 270 players from all over the country Funded by the Cashback for Communities Project, which takes money received from criminal acts and ploughs it back into various community events, the National Challenge was well organised - and at the same time provided youngsters with an opportunity to showcase their developing talents. The 16 participating teams were divided into four groups

for a morning of round-robin fixtures. Glasgow topped their section with wins over West Lothian Wolves and a Highland team which boasted several Scotland players. Winning the group ensured qualification for the afternoon Gold Group along with the three other table-toppers. Title-holders Falkirk were pushed all the way, and Glasgow forged ahead in the final minute through unbeatable offense play from Scotland star Kieran Man. The second game against Edinburgh East was yet another close encounter with patches of real quality and brilliance throughout. A run of second half points without reply - gave Edinburgh a deserved win. Despite being left disappointed, Glasgow were driven on by determination and enthusiasm to secure a victory in their last fixture against Edinburgh West. As the boys relaxed, a display based on tenacity and skill brought several scoring-points as Glasgow cruised home. Edinburgh East remained unbeaten to win overall, while Glasgow collected a well-de-

served silver medal they will always treasure. Kieran Man’s stellar performances were fully acknowledged, when the organisers named him in the tournament All Star 5. Glasgow City Basketball Club have built on winning the West of Scotland Under-12 Development League Championship in March. Established as a club in 1982, they cater for Senior Men and Ladies’ teams, Cadet (Under-16), Men, Under-14 Men, Under-12 Mixed and Under-10 Mixed. In terms of membership, they are the 9th biggest basketball club in Scotland. Plans are in the pipeline to expand their coach numbers and teams in the next few years - and they could certainly do with some sponsorship! GCBC have previously organised training sessions through their sister charity, “Shoot for Success”, who work alongside them in primary schools across the East End. Support has also been forthcoming from Glasgow Life and Basketball Scotland through their Future Clubz Initiative.

NEW COIN WEST CUP DRAW SCOTTISH WOMENS FOOTBALL

ST ROCH have pulled out a crackerjack pairing in the first round of the sponsored New Coin Holdings West of Scotland Cup. The Candy Rock, under new management, will host 2006 and 2013 holders Glenafton Athletic, who lost out against Hurlford United in last season’s Scottish Junior Cup final at Kilmarnock. North Glasgow junior fans can also watch PETERSHILL v CAMBUSLANG RANGERS, and GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE v RUTHERGLEN GLENCAIRN. Cambuslang were relegated

from the Central District First Division this year - a season after winning promotion out of the Second Division - but have already appointed new co-managers and signed some experienced players. Peasy chief Willie Paterson admitted: “The draw is a potential banana skin for us. John Doyle and Paddy Flannery have taken over, and made some very good signings. Steven Dymock (Arthurlie), and Chris Hamilton (Kilbirnie Ladeside) have played in the Super Premier Division, while Paddy Cullen scored a hat-

trick against us in the Scottish Junior Cup last season. “Hopefully by the time the game is scheduled we will have a settled team on the park ourselves.” ASHFIELD and MARYHILL will be booking buses to Maybole and Royal Albert respectively. And the draw was not favourable to SHETTLESTON or VALE OF CLYDE. Town travel to Dalry Thistle, while the Tin Pail meet St Anthony at McKenna Park, Govan. Dates for the first round games have still to be arranged.

CHAMPIONS Glasgow City F.C. will emerge from their mid-season break with a five-point lead at the top of the Scottish Women’s Premier League. City, who won the treble last season, came from a goal down to beat Hibernian 4-1 in the last pre-shutdown fixture at Albyn Park, Broxburn. Hibs’ Scottish Under-19 internationalist Arnot opened the scoring with a brilliant goal. The visitors responded before half-time when Abbi Grant shot past ‘keeper Reid. Nine minutes into the second half, Leanne Ross curled home a great second goal. Two minutes later, Glasgow City’s all-time record goalscorer, Suzanne Lappin, finished off a great run and cross from the impressive Fiona Brown. Full-back Emma Black rounded off an excellent team performance with a cracking shot past Reid in the 71st minute.

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Sunday’s fixture has Glasgow City on the road to play Spartans, who finished fifth before the shut-down. On Sunday, August 10, City host the visit of Rangers, and a fortnight later (August 24) it is a repeat of Hibernian v Glasgow City. Glasgow City F.C. also have three Women’s Champions’ League games to negotiate. AUGUST 9 - v Nove Zamky (SVK), AUGUST 11 - v Glentoran (N.I) AUGUST 14 - v F.C. Zhilstroy (UKR).

PLACINGS: BEFORE THE SHUT-DOWN. TOP SIX WILL NOW PLAY EACH OTHER TWICE P

Glasgow City

Pts 33

Rangers

28 24

Celtic

Hibernian

Spartans

Aberdeen

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PEASY TRY THE APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE

PETERSHILL Juniors have broken away from traditional pre-season training methods and introduced Sports Science to the Springburn club. Mark Laurie is a specialist in the application of scientific principals and techniques aimed at improving sporting performance. Three weeks before the start of pre-season, every Petershill player was handed a detailed programme to follow - and co-manager Willie Paterson has been amazed at the reaction from his Super Premier Division squad. He revealed: “Mark is very experienced in Sports Science and we were very lucky to have him on board for all the pre-season sessions, which included double stints on a Saturday. “We finished early last season (April 26), and spent about nine weeks preparing for this. Scott Smith (co-manager) had already intimated he was leaving the club to spend more time with his son’s football team, and Paul Kelly has joined

us from Milngavie Wanderers. Together with coach Scott Black, we decided it was time for a change pre-season. “Mark has worked in firstteam professional football, plus Under-19 and Under-17 youth level. From the basics of warming-up, our players have been introduced to core muscle exercises, aerobic endurance, high intensive endurance and flexability.” For the first time in 14 years Paterson was not physically involved on the opening night of pre-season training. He added: “All the players were tested over 5, 20 and 30 metres, and we had the use of heart monitors. Mark was able to pinpoint areas where each player had improved or required to work on. “I have been in football a long time, but this approach takes the game to a completely different level.” Peasy supporters will see a host of new faces during

PLAYERS WANTED

MARYHILL Black Star A.F.C., who play in the Strathclyde Saturday Morning Amateur Football League, are holding trials for new players next season. Team trains on a Tuesday evening at John Paul Academy, Summerston. Well-run club. Contact Manager Chris Ward: blackstar@live.com. BUDHILL Football Academy require players born 2002. Contact 07774327119. BROOMHILL Sports Club are keen to bring on players for their youth development initiative programme, plus hard-working coaches. Give them a call on 0141 339 3606. MUIRTON A.F.C. need an experienced goalkeeper. Telephone 07940761875. GARROWHILL Thistle A.F.C. are seeking adult players for next season in the Central Scottish Amateur Football

League (Saturday football). Team trains on a Monday and Wednesday (7.30pm-9pm) at Bannerman High School, and plays their home games at Lochend. Contact Zak McIlhargey at 07817162441. POSTAL United A.F.C. want committed and talented players (all positions). Call 07808295854 or 07766421784. WHITEHILL A.F.C. (Dennistoun) require new players. Telephone 07950333480. BAILLIESTON Thistle A.F.C., from the Greater Glasgow Premier A.F.L. Division One, have started a search for new signings. Phone 07761444961. PETERSHILL B.C. 2001 require players (all positions). Call 07595947196. GOALKEEPING Coaching specialist sessions available (all ages to adult level). Call 07814269198.

pre-season games. I can exclusively reveal the back room staff have spoken to around 50 players in recent weeks. Said Willie: “Every player is a gamble as you know, but we have worked really hard to land some of these signings. “Like every club, we thought some deals were closed in our favour, but at the last-minute players change direction and go elsewhere. These things happen in junior football. Arriving at Petershill Park are Daniel McLeay (Kilbirnie Ladeside), Jordan Kennedy (Milngavie Wanderers), Bert Wright (Ashfield), Chris Barr (Blochairn Star), Barry McGowan (Thorniewood United), Jason Elliot (Campsie Black Watch), Andy McLay (Glasgow Harp), Kieran Daw (East Kilbride F.C.), Stephen McDonald (Blantyre Vics) and Ryan Tiffney (Albion Rovers). Bruno Maltoni, Stevie McNeil, Graham Girvan, Craig Palmer, who is out for six weeks

SUCCESSFUL co-managers Willie Paterson (left) and Scott Smith won’t be working together at Petershill Juniors next season. Smith has left the Springburn club, and has been replaced by former Milngavie Wanderers Manager Paul Kelly. with torn ankle ligaments, Paul McMenamin, Jordan Chisholm, Ross McCabe, Liam Finnigan, Richie Burke, Stephen

SEASON TICKETS

ST ROCH Juniors have sold some advertising and sponsorship packages as they await the new kick-off. Season tickets are also on sale from James McGrory Park. Costs are £30 (adults), £15

for Senior Citizens and anyone unemployed, while children aged Under-16 will be admitted free. The “Candy Rochers” has been founded to encourage youngsters to support their local junior football club.

HEAD OF YOUTH

GLASGOW City F.C. have confirmed the full-time appointment of Amy McDonald as their Head of Youth. Amy has been the brains behind a thriving youth sec-

tion at the Scottish champions for the past two years, and this month was named S.F.A. West Region Girls’ and Women’s Football Volunteer of the Year.

FOOTBALL ACADEMY SIXTY children attended the first night of a Free Football Academy at Glenconner Park. Funded by GHA and delivered through Blochairn Star

A.F.C. - with support from St Roch Juniors F.C. and Royston Youth Action - other sessions will be organised throughout the summer.

McGladrigan and Chris Mackie remain from last season. Mikey White and Stephen O’Keane have been released.

Ryan Smillie is up-forsale, Paul Woods has signed for Queens Park, and Jordan Murch is at Irvine Meadow.

TITLE VICTORY GLASGOW East Boys’ Club lost 4-2 against Pirie Park Y.F.C. in a match which clinched the Paisley and Johnstone District Youth Football League Under-15 Division 3 title for their hosts. Needing a draw to be crowned champions, Pirie took a 3-0 lead

through Cameron Wright, Darren Sanderson and Lewis Mitchell. Glasgow East staged a brilliant comeback with two goals, and were the better team until Corey Liddell hit the deciding counter.

PREMIER SEASON AMATEUR clubs in the Greater Glasgow Premier A.F.L. will kick-off the new season Satur-

day, August 16. The Caledonian League starts on the same day.

CLOSING DATE SYFA-registered Boys’ Club teams have until August 1 to

apply for entry into the Scottish Cup and West Regional Cup.

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