The Wee County News - Issue 866 by Vicki O'Hare

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Tuesday 6.3.12 Issue 866

In this issue...

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New solution for pothole problems

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Holyrood petition reflects two years of hard work for Kinship Carers By Alison Mann CLACKS Kinship Carers took to the doors of Holyrood last week to hand in the petition that marks two years of hard work for the group. On March 1 the group visited the Scottish Parliament to present almost 1,200 signatures to Deputy Convener of the Petition Committee Sandra White MSP. Teresa McNally was the named petitioner so took on the task of handing over the all important petition and had the opportunity to ask questions of MSPs. Joined by Kinship cares from Edinburgh and Glasgow, Keith Brown MSP and his assistant Ellen Forsen helped the group take the momentous act. Teresa has received already an acknowledgement regarding the submission from the Petitions Office, who will set a date for the petition to go before the committee. The main text of the Petition read:“Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to take action to ensure that all councils across Scotland pay kinship carers the recommended allowance (as suggested in the Scottish Government’s Local Gov-

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ernment Concordat for 2008-2011) and that any such allowance should be ring fenced, with resourced support equable with fosters carers.” Kinship Carers are adults such aunts, grandparents or family friends who care for children because their natural parents are unable to do so. They help keep the child in an en-

vironment they recognise but are not given the same rights and payment as Foster Carers. Petitioner Teresa McNally said: “This was another important step taken by Clacks Kinship Carers on behalf of kinship carers locally as well as across Scotland. The handover day has been the culmination of two years hard and persistent work

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by the group, on behalf of kinship carers. The work hasn’t finished yet. “Along with the formal petition I presented Sandra White MSP, signed sheets of 1,115 signatures of support for kinship carers from across Clackmannanshire. The group thanks local supporters and I give my personal thanks to the passionate commitment of this group -

what a team - who will continue to lobby local and national government to recognise the real value of kinship carers and give them esteem on a parity with foster carers.” Dr. Richard Simpson, Jackie Baillie, John Park and other Labour MSPs greeted the kinship carers at the main entrance to the parliament.

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Family Announcements

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I am shocked that Keith Brown is refusing to publish details of which charities he has gifted his council payout money to. Perhaps he feels that this would be seen as buying votes? Or perhaps he is frantically milling around trying to throw money at any one who will take it to make front page stories go away? Regardless of which one is it, isn’t it time that we found out why it has taken so long to dispense the money. I hope he does not take so long to deal with constituent problems. A Voter.

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I note with interest your front page last week. Keith Brown was not the only councillor to receive a severance payout when he left the council. However he was the most vocal about not accepting it. This story has continued to plague the politicians through out this time in the Scottish Parliament, yet it is one that as the MP stated could be solved by answering some questions about who got the money and why they deserved it. To lay this one to rest, I too suggest that the MSP and leader of Clackmannanshire Council just tell the truth and move on. Robert Jackson, Alloa

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he weecounty news has teamed up with Flowers by Arrangement to bring you a competition to give someone Orderabefore forofSame special beautiful2pm bunch flowersDay everyService month.

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I voted Keith Brown and the SNP in 2007 and then again in 2011. However the article in your paper last week is making me feel very uneasy about my decision. I urge the minister to publish all details of who he gave his money to, with out delay. This will put my mind at ease and the many thousands who gave their backing to him in the previous two elections. If there is nothing to hide, then we need to know and we need to know now. Please dispel any doubts that I may have and assure me that I have been making the right decision. Sooner rather than later, please. H Drysdale, Alva

We are excepting nominations from readers who think someone deserves a little treat. It could be that they’ve overcome illness, are having a special birthday or are just a special person that deserves some recognition. Whatever the reason, let us know and we’ll pick one winner who will receive some flowers. Send your nominations, plus your name, address and telephone number to: weecounty Flower Competition, The Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG. 13,weecounty@hubpublishing.co.uk Mill Street, Alloa, 87-89, Stirling Street, Alva, Email: Facebook: Clacks, FK10 1DT Clacks, FK12 5ED post your nominations on the Wee County News facebook page.

01259 723 988 Tel: 01259 760 037 13, Mill Street, Tel: Alloa, 87-89, Stirling Alva, Nominations for this month will close on March 24th and a Street, winner will be announced on March 28th. The editors decision is final. Clacks, FK10 1DT Clacks, FK12 5ED

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Peacefully at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Larbert on Thursday 1st March 2012, Margaret, aged 70 years. Much loved partner of Thomas, dearly loved mum of Caroleann, Jackie, Pauline and Mig, a much loved nan, great gran and granny maw of Kieran, Alychia, Rhiannon and Niyah. Funeral mass will be held today, Tuesday 6th March at St. Mungos R.C. Church, Alloa at 10am and thereafter to Sunnyside Cemetery to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. R.I.P Hillview Funeral Services 01259-725999.

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weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Council looks for new solution to fix pothole problem A

new method of repairing potholes which could be cheaper, quicker, better and greener than traditional methods is being currently being trialled by Clackmannanshire Council. The Council has leased a gas-powered infra-red patcher for a six month trial period. This system works by heating up the existing asphalt around a pothole before some fresh material is added and the surface is rolled to leave a welded patch all round. The result is a patch with no joins which means less chance of water getting into the repair and causing future damage. Councillor Womersley said: “We are constantly under pressure to find new ways of providing our many services against a backdrop of reducing budgets. This new way

of repairing potholes should give us very much more durable patches, as well as reducing the amount of waste material sent to landfill and provide a better working environment.” Using the patcher means there’s no need for noisy compressors and breakers which means less disruption for nearby residents. And with no need for jack hammers, the repairs are much easier for workers to carry out, as well as being quicker. Councillor Carrick, Sustainability Portfolio Holder, added: “At the end of the six month trial we’ll be looking at the effectiveness of the infra-red patcher compared to more traditional methods, before we decide whether to invest in this equipment, however initial tests show that it has benefits for the council tax payers of Clackmannanshire, road users, workers and the environment.”

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Council hopes to fix potholes more efficiently by trialling new techniques

MAISIE: LEAP YEAR BABY

raveheart Plus is an exciting new group that meets the first Thursday of the month in Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre (meeting room at wards 1&2) 1pm. It is open to all ages and abilities and will cover topics like Benefits, Diet, health, pharmacy, diabetes and much more. They also have trips and outing for members to get out and socialise and have fun, they recently enjoyed a lovely day out on Loch Katrine followed by a mouth watering meal. For more information call May on 01259 290323.

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minutes! To coincide with the special day, Maisie’s name is also special to the family - named after David’s gran, who is over-joyed at the new addition to the family. Leigh and David appreciate all the support from both families and friends. Leigh told the Wee County; “She will celebrate her birthday on the 28 th February.”

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welcomed their second child on the special day, as does big sister for Annie who will be 2 in May. Talking to the Wee County, Leigh told us that Annie loves to help and hold her new baby sister as much as possible. The birth of Maisie was earlier than planned, and Mum Leigh cannot believe that both her children were born in less than five

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aby Maisie is special in so many ways, firstly to her loving parents but perhaps more importantly, as a leap year baby – just one of thirteen babies born across Scotland. Maisie arrived in the world on 29 th February 2012 at 7:19pm, weighing 6lb 4oz. Mum Leigh Morgan and dad David MacGregor

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Tuesday 6.3.12

Free energy efficient measures encouraged for Clackmannanshire homes By Michelle Henderson

Continued from front page . . . Dr. Richard Simpson had previously submitted a motion to coincide with the handover of the petition welcoming Clacks Kinship Carers to the Scottish Parliament, and highlighting “the need for the Scottish Government to rectify the postcode lottery that exists in relation to the payment of the kinship care allowance across Scotland by giving local authorities realistic and adequate funding to allow them to properly address the situation”. Dr. Richard Simpson said: “Scottish Labour recently led a debate on Kinship Care in the Scottish

Parliament and as I’ve said time and again – the SNP Government has plenty warm words to say, but the reality is different. They need to start giving local authorities realistic and adequate funding to allow them to pay the allowance as recommended in the concordat.” Gordon Banks MP added: “I know Clacks Kinship Carers have worked really hard on this petition and I sincerely hope that the Scottish Government take on board what they are saying. They have known for a long time that kinship carers face a postcode lottery in relation to payment of the kinship allowance and it’s time that they did something about it.”

Final music in Dollar concert of season Music in Dollar is holding its final concert of the season and will hear beautiful music from the Glasgow String Quartet. The concert will be held in the Gibson Hall, Dollar Academy, on Satur-

day March 17 starting at 7:30 pm. Appearing will be the Glasgow String Quartet, which comprises the principal players in the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. They will perform a selection of pieces by Bar-

ber, Beethoven and Ravel in what promises to be a fitting finale to the season. Jan Bradley, Dollar Music Society’s Chairman said: “This season has been very successful, with over

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Investment, Alex Neil said in a statement today, “Clackmannanshire residents continue to lose money every single day that passes when they don’t take advantage of the free insulation measures on offer.” Mr Neil has announced a further £80,000 to be given to Clackmannanshire Council for the Universal Home Insulation Scheme. The scheme is offering a range of homes free insulation measures to help improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty. Clackmannanshire have already received a total of £375,000 this year under this scheme alone. Fuel poverty is identified when the residents are spending 10% or more of the household income to pay for domestic fuel bills. Mr Neil said, “We are fortunate to live in an energy rich nation and it is a disgrace that some people still have to choose between turning the heating on and buying a meal. That is why the Scottish Government is continuing to do all we can to tackle rising energy prices and help customers who are struggling with their energy bills. “Many Clackmannanshire households are losing money every day by not taking up free insulation offers. I would urge anyone who hasn’t looked at loft or cavity wall insulation to contact the Hotline as soon as possible to access the additional resources. Help and support is there and available now in Clackmannanshire for immediate use.” The Scottish Government is spending £57 million over the years 2011-2012 on funding for Fuel Poverty and energy efficient programmes. This has come at a time of

400 people enjoying a wide variety of first-class classical and jazz performances. We work hard to put together a programme that has ‘something for everyone’, and judging by the audience numbers, we’ve done exactly that. “This last concert promises to be rather special, so I hope I can encourage anyone who’s not yet been to one of our concerts, to come along and join us. We’re attracting quality musicians into the local community and it’s a great chance for everyone to listen to live music, beautifully played, at a fraction of the cost it would be to go to a concert in Edinburgh or Glasgow, so please come along. Tickets are just £8 per adult and are available on the door. Children are admitted free. The concerts usually last about two hours, with wine and soft drinks served during the interval.

substantial cuts being made to the funding given to the Scottish Government by the UK coalition Government. The Chair of Consumer Focus Scotland Douglas Sinclair said: “Trust in energy companies is at an all time low and, worryingly, it is likely that thousands of vulnerable people in Clackmannanshire, including pensioners and people with disabilities, are missing out on help to cut their fuel bills. “It is absolutely vital that no stone is left unturned in getting help to vulnerable people and trusted public and voluntary sector groups could be that critical link between the people who need help and the help that is available from big power companies.” “Good examples would be when the social worker, district nurse or home help is visiting, for them to check that the heating is working.” “We all must do what we can and the extra investment announced by the Scottish Government today for insulation and boiler scrappage schemes will be good news for households.” “These are all steps in the right direction to help consumers but there is much more work to be done.” The boiler scheme is demand-led rather than area based and is offering £400 subsidy towards replacing the least energy efficient boilers. These are to be placed in privately owned homes, with new Energy Saving Trust recommended models being installed.

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weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Mr Singh Imagines Alloa….

Sauchie Woman Given Prestigious Guide Award A

Sauchie woman has been given a prestigious award as recognition of her exceptional service to Guiding. Janet Morrison was presented with the prestigious

Scottish Chief Commissioner’s award on Thursday March 1. Deputy Scottish Chief Commissioner Pat Marwick will make the presentation. The award recognised Janet’s substantial contribution to

Left to Right: Tricia Davenport Clackmannanshire County Commissioner, Janet Morrison, Pat Marwick (Deputy Scottish Chief Commissioner) and Avril Murray Assistant County Commissioner

a new venture in Alloa would work for Mr Singh’s”. Taking the locale into account it is likely, but not confirmed that the restaurant will be named ‘Mr Singh’s at The Tower’ and will incorporate our very own Alloa Tower into its branding. David Haswell, Chair of the local Economic Development Partnership Team said “I am personally delighted to welcome Mr Singh’s to Alloa. As a regular customer of his Stirling restaurants, I am a fan of the quality of the food and the friendly service that has become a hallmark of Mr Singh’s. To have a quality restaurant with such a good reputation will be a huge boost to Alloa town centre and Clackmannanshire as a whole and I wish Mr Singh all the best in this exciting venture”. It is not only the discerning diner that will benefit from this development. Mr Singh recognises that there should be an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from his move. This is evidenced in the fact that he has appointed Machin Associates as architects and aims to work with as many local providers as possible. Colin Machin, Machin Associates said “We met with Mr Singh and Kevin

estaurateur Raj Singh will open a new branch of his Mr Singh’s restaurants in Alloa Town Centre this year. Mr Singh was successful in applying for planning permission to transform the former Acorn Pets unit at Thistle Brewery into his fourth restaurant in Central Scotland. The new restaurant, which opens to customers late Spring will also create around 25 new jobs to the town. Mr Singh has three restaurants The Indian Cottage and Indian Brasserie both in Stirling and India Gate in Dunblane. Whilst looking east to Edinburgh for a new opportunity Mr Singh’s business advisor John Pryde suggested he look closer to home and consider Alloa. Kevin Deighan, Clacksfirst Ltd and Project Manager at Imagine Alloa met with Mr Pryde and Raj Singh to discuss the merits of a new restaurant in Alloa Town Centre. He told us “There are lots of extremely successful businesses in Alloa Town Centre and when you look a little closer their success is down to fantastic products and service. We spoke to Raj about this and believed that if he is confident of delivering the product and service then

Guiding in Clackmannanshire and at national level. The Scottish Chief Commissioner’s Award is presented by Girlguiding Scotland in recognition of exceptional service to Guiding and the wider community. It not only acknowledges outstanding service but also commitment, achievement, character and personality. Janet began her involvement with Guiding as a child when she joined the Brownies. Her life has been dedicated to the movement, leading voluntary organisation for girls and young women in Scotland. She progressed to Guide, Leader and Commissioner, and is also a Scottish trainer, running training sessions for leaders all over Scotland. Janet has been leader of 3rd Sauchie Brownies for more than 30 years, and her brownies enjoy an action-packed programme, including regular pack holidays Tricia Davenport County Commissioner for Girlguiding Clackmannanshire, said: “We are all delighted and very proud that Janet has received this award. She is an integral part of the county team, and gives 100% to everything she does.”

Deighan at the proposed site for his new restaurant and immediately thought his plans and ideas were exactly what the town centre needed. We are delighted to have been appointed to this prestigious and innovative project and look forward to seeing the work commence, the public are in for a treat.” Imagine Alloa is a project that reaches out to business owners with an informative approach to let them know that Clackmannanshire is home to many hugely successful businesses and given recent, significant investment in the area there should be no reason why their business can’t be part of that success. The project is supported by Clacksfirst Ltd, Clackmannanshire Business Ltd and Clackmannanshire Council and has played a lead role in attracting businesses such as Contral Instruments Ltd and Fennelwood Fine Foods to Clackmannanshire. Kevin Deighan told us “We have been instrumental in several businesses relocating to Clackmannanshire and will continue to do so. When a new business moves into the area the first thing they do is look around to see who they can do business with – this all contributes toward boosting the local economy”.

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Tuesday 6.3.12

Alison Mann

Spring is in the air :-) T

here are lovely crocuses outside Greenfields, Matt Baker is showing his family’s new lambs on The One Show and the

sun has been shining in a clear sky amidst the crisp, fresh air. I have felt, for the first time the optimistic cheer that Spring has shown

its bright head and the dull, dark, dreary winter months are well and truly behind us. Yes, it may have been rather frosty and I did have to scrape my car this morning but I was also nearly blinded by the sun so I’m sticking with the thought that Spring is here. I had my first taste of Spring on Sunday when I had a most wonderful trip to the Dumfriesshire countryside. The sun was shining in the beautiful blue sky and I felt the clean air blow the cobwebs from my lungs. Did anyone else feel more optimistic than they have in the past few months, like going out for a run is a distinct possibility and travelling to

work will be rather more enjoyable with the bright mornings egging us on? Well I did. Taking two cute little dogs, Spot and Bracken, out for a walk really made me feel like I should be getting out there and going for runs and feeling the fresh air in my lungs. Also seeing young lambs in their little jackets in the fields and unstable calves hobbling around in the hay really made me feel that Spring was in the air.

WE ARE IN ALLOA Come and visit us at 38 Primrose Street

I hope if you didn’t feel instant Spring cheer that when you look out of your window today and see the bright mornings and brightening evenings you feel a life has got a little better! What do you think of Springtime, let me know at alison@hubpublishing. co.uk.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Do you have something you want to say, or something for Alison to talk about: alison@hubpublishing.co.uk

Visitors increase at Stirling Castle 2012 Euro quiz heats By Alison Mann

tirling Castle has experienced a 15% increase in visitor numbers compared to the previous 12 months. The figures were released on Monday March 5 by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA). The association is made up of some of the UK’s leading heritage attractions including The Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tower of London and Edinburgh Castle, whose members release their visitor figures annually. Stirling Castle, which is run by Historic Scotland saw 433,394 visitors go through its doors in 2011, a 15% increase on the previous year. The castle’s renaissance palace re-opened to the public in June after a three year £12 million restoration of its royal apartments to return them to how they may have looked

at the time of a young Mary, Queen of Scots. The upturn in visitor numbers was also reflected at Historic Scotland’s other submitted properties, Edinburgh Castle and Urquhart Castle. Edinburgh Castle retained its position as Scotland’s number one paid for visitor attraction with 1,302,826 visitors, an increase of 8%, whilst Urquhart Castle saw a rise of 10% to 315,911 visitors. Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop said: “2012 was a fantastic year for the heritage sector, with Edinburgh Castle retaining its position as Scotland’s number one paid for tourist attraction and Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle all enjoying growth. “Highlights from the last 12 months include Edinburgh Castle experiencing its best ever July and August on record,

the opening of the palace project at Stirling and Urquhart Castle recording over 300,000 visitors in one season for the first time, reinforcing the hugely important role of our built heritage in making Scotland a ‘must see’ destination.” Stephen Duncan, Director of Commercial and Tourism for Historic Scotland said: “The Stirling Palace experience is unlike anything currently available in the Scottish market and is really appealing to visitors’ imaginations. “We are also continuing to invest in the wider visitor experience at Stirling and will be kicking off our events programme at the castle this year with a fun filled Easter extravaganza for all the family as part of our programme of costumed performances which run at key times throughout the year.”

take place at Alva Primary school By Michelle Henderson

leur Delacour from Harry Potter comes from which European country?” “From which EU member state does the clothes retailer H&M originate?” “Who is the President of the European Commission?” If you don’t know the answers, just ask the pupils taking part in this year’s Euroquiz for primary 6 pupils. The heats take place on Friday 2nd March in Alva Primary School. Teams of 4 pupils will compete and the winners will go on to represent each local

authority at the national final. A total of 12 schools are taking part, five from Clackmannanshire and 7 from Stirling, with questions covering history, geography, sport, culture, the EU and general knowledge. Euroquiz of a Scotlandwide event, organised by the award-winning Scottish European Educational Trust. 31 Scottish local authorities are competing this year. The winning teams from both Clackmannanshire and Stirling schools will compete against the other 29 local authority teams in the

national final at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh on Monday 14th May. The Scottish European Educational Trust is a registered charity, set up in 1993 and provides information about Europe and the European Union to schools, colleges and universities. It works closely with the European Parliament, the European Commission, Learning Teaching Scotland, Eurodesk, the British Council and the Scottish Government. It has recently won an Active Citizen of Europe Award from Volonteurope.

weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Everyone welcome at new thrift shop C lackmannan youngster Leah Jenkins tucks into her soup at the local

Thrift Shop which is open to everyone on Fridays in the Clackmannan Town Hall.

The shop which is run by members of the local church provides good quality Ladies, Gents and Children’s clothes at very reasonable prices (nothing over £5) and has now expanded to offer (at present) fortnightly Bread & Soup lunches. The local Nursery School have been visiting and enjoying biscuits and juice. The venture has been well received and has been well supported by the Town Hall Trust. The next two LAST WEEKS CROSSWORD ANSWERS Lunches are on Friday 9 and 23 from 11.30am to 2.30pm in the Town Hall, come along, enjoy some lunch, a browse, a chat and a cuppa.

CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to Isabel Young from Dollar, who won a meal for two at the Bridge Inn in our crossword competition last week. Send in your completed crosswords alongside your name, address and telephone number to be in with a chance of winning this week’s meal for two. SEE PAGE 18

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weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

New neonatal scanner could save lives of premature and sick babies

wo charities have joined hands to buy a super scanner which could save the lives of premature and sick babies in the neonatal unit at Forth Valley Royal Hospital. SPIFOX (Scottish Property Industry Festival of Christmas) and So Precious, a local Stirling charity, teamed up to purchase the £34,500 scanner which has advanced miniaturisation to enable consultants to make a more accurate assessment for even the most premature babies. SPIFOX contributed £19,000 towards the cost of the Vivid S5 scanner with So Precious funding the balance. NHS Forth Valley Consultant Paediatrician Dr Una MacFadyen said: “The accuracy that this scanner delivers enables us to get a clearer understanding of the health of the sick newborn. We can also send the results digitally to paediatric cardiologists in Yorkhill in

advance of babies arriving there for specialist care. This will greatly assist treatment plans. We are so pleased to have such an advanced scanner in Forth Valley to help us continue to deliver exemplary neonatal care”. Alison Kilgour who founded ‘So Precious,’ the charity dedicated to supporting Forth Valley Neonatal and Maternity Units, added: “Being able to purchase the Vivid S5 for the neonatal unit within our first year of being established as a charity has been an incredible achievement. “The team work tirelessly on a voluntary basis to raise funds and awareness of neonatal and maternity care in Forth Valley. “We have only been able to achieve this because we have such great support from the local community, neonatal parents, the team at Forth Valley neonatal intensive care unit and of course SPIFOX who we really

cannot thank enough for their generous contribution” Pictured at the handover (above) of the scanner are (left to right) L-R: Sally Larg, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; Dr Una McFadyen Consultant Paediatrician Liam and Alison Kilgour (So Precious Founder),; Dr Campbell Nicol; Alasdair Carlyle (SPIFOX), Ronnie Urquhart (Chairman SPIFOX) Lorna Strachan (So Precious Treasurer), Ryan Fletcher (Trustee So Precious). Kevin McKenzie (Patron So Precious), Fiona McKenzie (Trustee So Precious), Mark Blue (Trustee So Precious). On Wednesday 22 February 2012, So Precious celebrated their first anniversary. To learn more about So Precious www.so-precious.co.uk or follow them on facebook at www.facebook.com/ sopreciousnnu. You can also donate online at www.everyclick.com/ soprecious.

eam Leader of the Ochill Hills Mountain Rescue Team, Kevin Mitchell was invited to lunch and to receive a donation of £500 towards running costs. The Rotary Club of Alloa appreciate the sterling service given to the public by this devoted team. The photograph shows President Graham Kerr making the presentation.

weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Rising to the community challenge

ommunity Action Planning for Tullibody, Cambus & Glenochil rose to the challenge of “Baking the Bread”. Community Councillors and colleagues from Tullibody Healthy Living along with some keen volunteers met up to learn some skills on community engagement through the process of baking bread. Our aim behind the bread making is to find out what local folk think about our local community. What’s good, what’s bad and what we can do about things that need changed? Survey forms have been delivered to most households in Cambus, Glenochil and Tullibody inside the Tullibody Healthy Living›s newsletter. Residents are asked to put forward their views and opinions on a range of issues from

transport to leisure including ideas on the community garden plans. We really hope people will take a couple of minutes to express their opinions and experiences and return the questionnaires to the THL office or phone the contact numbers if they want them collected. The final day for having «your say» is on Saturday the 17th March, when Tullibody Healthy Living holds their Spring Event at the Civic Centre. There will be loads of free events and advice along with the last chance to complete the questionnaire. Residents will also be able to do this online by survey monkey, once the link is available. Meanwhile if anyone wants to know more please phone the Healthy Living Office on 01259 724374, or phone Muriel, Community Council Secretary on 01259 729760.

Left to Right: Doris, Bridget, Ann, Donna, Maureen, Janette, Jack June,and Muriel. Community Councillors, Tullibody Healthy Living and volunteers join together to bake the bread.

Three new community councils A

ll Clackmannanshire residents now have community council representation following the results of a nomination process to establish three

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new groups. These results were announced on February 22 by Chief Executive Elaine McPherson following a nomination period throughout this month. Following a review of community council boundaries in 2011, three new community council areas were formed and residents were invited to submit nominations for people to become community councillors. This has resulted in the establishment of new community councils in Alloa, Sauchie & Fishcross and Tillicoultry, Coalsnaughton & Devonside. Mrs McPherson said: “The outcome of the nomination process in these three areas shows the determination of the people to work collectively in their best interests. With the establishment of these new community councils, everyone in Clackmannanshire now has community council representation.” Provost Tina Murphy also welcomed the outcome of the recent community council nomination process. Provost Murphy said: “These results show that there is considerable interest in this level of local democracy in Clackmannanshire. I welcome the news and wish the new community councillors the best of luck in their endeavours, representing the interests of their communities. As a former community council

chair, I know how much work goes into being a community councillor. This demonstration of active citizenship is reassuring for the Council as we gear up to work more closely with our communities. We see community councils as the first point of contact and really appreciate their work.” The first meeting of Tillicoultry Coalsnaughton and Devonside Community Council will be held on Wednesday February 29 at 7pm in Tillicoultry Community Centre. Alloa Community Council meets for the first time on Monday March 5 in the OAP Hall, Erskine Street, at 7.30pm and the following evening sees Sauchie & Fishcross Community Council’s first meeting at 7.30pm in Sauchie Hall. As with all community council meetings, these meetings will be held in public and residents of these areas may attend to observe proceedings. The new Alloa Community Council will be made up of 16 community councillors. It covers the former Alloa Central, Bowmar and Alloa West areas. Sauchie

& Fishcross Community Council will be made up of 14 community councillors. Tillicoultry, Coalsnaughton & Devonside Community Council will be made up of 12 community councillors. A full list of newly elected community councillor appears on ClacksWeb at www. clacksweb.org.uk/council/ communitycouncilelections/ The former Alloa Centre and Tillicoultry Community Councils no longer exist. The new community councillors taking over in these areas will set about transferring the role to their newlyestablished community councils so that there is minimum interruption to the function they provide in their communities.

weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

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weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Alloa is better for business

ollowing on the success of last year’s campaign ‘Imagine Alloa – Better for Business’ has launched another burst of marketing activity that will keep the profile of the area in the minds of those businesses looking to relocate or expand. The project delivered over forty jobs to Clackmannanshire during 2011 and aims to build on that achievement during 2012. Kevin Deighan, Clacksfirst Ltd and Project Manager on ‘Imagine Alloa – Better for Business’ said “At the start of the campaign last year

we had a vision of how the project would work and it panned out that way. Having said that, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of jobs created”. Last week saw the launch of the 2012 campaign with ‘Imagine Alloa – Better for Business’ appearing on the back of buses throughout Central Scotland. It is understood that there will be further activity with the aim of attracting investment to Clackmannanshire. “We have refined the strategy slightly. Last year it was about getting the message out loud and clear that Clackmannanshire, with new rail links and The

Clackmannanshire Bridge was very much open for business. This year we are targeting specific sectors relevant to investment, commercial property and business decision-makers.” Kevin Deighan told us. This pro-active campaign to attract investment and create jobs in the area is supported by Clacksfirst Ltd, Clackmannanshire Business Ltd and Clackmannanshire Council. It is believed that there will be further marketing activity at Scotland’s three major airports backed up by a robust online strategy.

Scotland’s national poet visits Dollar Academy S

cottish Poet and Dramatist Liz Lochhead visited Dollar Academy on Monday 5th March to meet with FIV pupils, who are currently in their examination year taking Standard Grade English. The Scots Makar spent an hour speaking to 140 pupils. She read a selection of poems and scenes from a couple of plays. Liz Lochhead then explored the dialect and narration in these pieces of work and discussed her inspiration and process for

writing. The session finished with a question and answer session, during which pupils quizzed the writer about various aspects of her work. Commenting after her visit, Liz Lochhead said: “It was a pleasure visiting Dollar Academy and I was particularly impressed with the range of questions put to me. These pupils were very keen to be involved.” This visit was organised as part of Dollar Academy’s visiting author programme, a series of events designed

to bring popular and inspirational authors to the school. Mrs Eilidh McDonald, Librarian at Dollar Academy, said: “We were delighted to have Liz Lochhead visit us today and it was a great privilege for us to have her read some of her most famous work. The pupils are familiar with her work as part of their Standard Grade course work, so her visit was of particular relevance to this year group. We thank her for her time spent with us this morning.”

London calling for youth dancers

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alented dancers from Macrobert Youth Dance Company have been selected to showcase their work on a London stage. The group will perform at the Southbank Centre, London in July as part of a huge event – U Dance 2012. The group fought 14 groups from across Scotland

performing for a place at the U.Dance Scottish Platform Event on Saturday February 25 at Macrobert and the five judges including Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, chose the four groups to go through Dimension, Maijaluk, Youth Dance Company and Fusion Youth Dance Company.

Other judges were Anita Clark (Portfolio Manager, Creative Scotland), Claire Somerville (Dance Performance Manager, Youth Dance England), Mags Byrne (Artistic Director, DU: Dance in Northern Ireland) and Winifred Jamieson (Principal Assessor for the Scottish Qualifications Authority).

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Tuesday 6.3.12

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weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

County’s busiest road due to be improved

Roadworks on A907 will last 3 weeks By Alison Mann

LACKMANNANSHIRE Council are set to carry out major road improvements on one of the busiest routes in the county. Road works begin on the A907 between Marywood Roundabout and the Gartarry roundabout on Sunday, 11th March 2012. The road, the main route into Clackmannan/Alloa from the east, will be closed that day from 8am to 6pm with a diversion in operation throughout Clackmannan. Works will continue from 12th March 2012 between

Marywood roundabout and Gartarry Roundabout for a further three weeks from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with temporary traffic lights in operation. Motorists are advised that delays of 20 minutes can be expected. Portfolio Holder for Sustainability, Councillor Eddie Carrick said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused to motorists during this time, but the work being carried out is essential and will be beneficial in the long term for everyone who uses this busy route.”

Rotary Club gives £4,500 to Mary’s Meals

Science fair a hit with pupils

enerous Alloa Rotarians have presented charity Mary’s Meals with £4,500. Last week the Rotary Club of Alloa welcomed guest speaker, Rotarian Douglas Robertson who is a volunteer speaker promoting the charity Mary’s Meals. During the talk Douglas described how the Charity came about at the beginning of this century. The secret of the success of the venture was the idea of feeding the children at a place of education. An education will give each child a way out of poverty. A hot meal every day will allow the children to be fit to study. At the conclusion of his interesting presentation, Douglas was presented with a cheque for £4,500 which was raised at the recent concert held in aid of the charity. Douglas thanked the Club for their generosity. Graham Kerr, President of the Rotary Club of Alloa said: “To say that the concert held recently was a success is the understatement of the year. The group Gaberlunzie and the Central Scotland Police Pipers played to a packed Devonvale Hall thereby enabling the Rotary Club to make this donation to Mary’s Meals.

President Graham Kerr, Douglas Robertson and Hector Nicolson “My thanks goes to the entertainers, the audience, hall management, sponsors, raffle donors and to the International Committee of the Rotary Club, under the convenorship of Rotarian Hector Nicolson, who arranged and ensured that the event would be a success.” Abeer MacIntyre, Head of Supporter Care, said: “The charity Mary’s Meals, which is funded almost entirely by individual donors, is indeed indebted to the Rotary Club of Alloa for this quite wonderful donation of £4,500. It is testament to the kind hearted spirit of the people of the Wee County that we are able to maximise

donations to those in need.” Mary’s Meals is now offering for sale, by way of donation, a big blue mug similar to those used to provide meals to over 600,000 children every school day. As well as being able to drink from it, the mugs also have lids that allow them to be used as collecting cans. These plastic mugs are being offered as an alternative gift for a suggested minimum donation of £7 each, which is how much it costs to provide Mary’s Meals for a whole school year. For information on how to order a Mary’s Meals mug, please telephone 0800 698 1212 or email: info@ marysmeals.org

unior school pupils at Dollar Academy put their lab coats on for a School Science Fair. The school held the fair on February 22. The entire J2 school year had been working on individual science projects, which they presented to a judging team of visiting scientists. In total 100 pupils took part in the event. The visitors including scientists from Industry, who commented after the event on the high calibre of work on display. Winners were picked from each class, with Rachel Foy being crowned as the overall champion for her project on the effectiveness of different hand washing techniques. The judges were particularly impressed with the quality of her presentation. Speaking after the event, Rachel commented: “I really enjoyed the experience and learnt an amazing amount about how people wash their hands. Talking to the judges was great for building my confidence too.” The Junior Science Fair is an annual event at Dollar

Academy and is organised by the school’s Junior school science co-ordinator. Dollar Academy’s Prep, Junior and Senior schools are all located on a single campus. The specialist senior teachers regularly support primary teaching, and help inspire the younger pupils across a broad range of subjects. Prize winners were Rachel Foy, Lachlan Kelly, Rebecca Allan, Rory Stewart, James Taylor, Sophie Ferguson, Cameron Walker, Sara Cooke and Calum Smith.

weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Schools:

Alloa Academy Week Beginning 27th February 2012

Week Beginning 5th March 2012

Congratulations to pupils in Erskine House who have won last week’s Inter-House competition and gain 13 points for the House. Schaw were in second place gaining 12 points with Bruce in third place gaining 11 House points. As can be seen the points are extremely close this week underlining how important it is that every single pupil works towards weekly co-operation and other merits in every subject.

Inter-House competition

Prefect Application forms

Students in S4 and S5 have been completing application forms for the role of Prefect in the coming session. All completed forms must be handed to the DHT by Friday of this week. Once appointments are made, the process to appoint Senior Prefects (Head Girl, Head boy and Deputies) will begin. Successful candidates will address assemblies in the week beginning 19th March, with the announcement of the results at the Senior Awards Ceremony on Thursday 19th April.

Option Choice Information Evening

The Option choice information evening will take place on Thursday 1st March. All interested parties are invited to attend at the following times: S2 @ 6.00pm; S4 and S5 @ 7.00pm. Please come along and find out about the procedures to support your children in making the right choices for their future.

Rugby

40 pupils, including six from St John’s Primary and nine from Alva Academy, attended the 6 Nations Rugby match between Scotland and France under the supervision of Alloa Academy staff on Sunday. They had a wonderful view of the first try scored and all of the other highlights. All concerned enjoyed the fantastic atmosphere of the match. Four girls also took part in a rugby training session at Wallace high School last week where they were able to meet Sara Dixon, a Scottish International player.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Dorottya Kova’cs of 6E1 who gained a Highly Commended certificate in the Biology Olympiad – a universitylevel competition. Also to Alison MacFarlane, our Head Girl, who was named sports Leader of the Year in the Provost’s Awards last week. Lewis Green, Head Boy was a nominee in the Citizen of the Year category. Well done to all.

Assemblies

House assemblies this week are being delivered by our Young Ambassadors on the theme of Olympic Values. Alloa Academy is part of the Get Set Network for the Olympics and there is a series of events currently in planning to celebrate this special event.

Competition Winners

Ms Adam was the winner of the Alloa Academy Haiku competition, while Mrs Abel’s limerick won in the limerick category.

Timebank – opportunities to contribute to your community

A presentation on the Timebank - a system in which pupils can carry out volunteer work and work towards rewards - will be given during lunchtime on Thursday 1st March. Pupils from all year groups are welcome to attend. More information on this will be shared via the Pupil PowerPoint in House Groups.

Congratulations to pupils in Schaw House who have won last week’s Inter-House competition and gain 14 points for the House. Erskine were in second place gaining 13 points with Bruce in third place gaining 9 House points. 2E1 and 1E2 topped the excellent co-operation list this week. Well done to all.

Prefect Application forms

Thank you to all S4 and S5 pupils who have handed in application forms for Prefectship for next session. These are under consideration at the moment and letters of appointment will be sent out by the end of the week. Appointed Prefects will then have the opportunity to submit applications for the post of Head girl and Head Boy and will be interviewed next week. Successful candidates will address assemblies in the week beginning 19th March, with the announcement of the results at the Senior Awards Ceremony on Thursday 19th April.

Option Choice Procedure

Thank you to all parents who attended the Option choice information evening on Thursday 1st March. The process is now well underway with s2 pupils receiving their reports last Friday. The S2 Parents’ Evening will take place on Monday 12th March from 4.00 – 6.00. S2 pupils should be making appointments for parents to meet staff.

Rugby

Congratulations to our Senior Boys rugby team who competed in the Scottish Schools Cup rugby game at Alloa Rugby Club last week. The commitment of the boys to the game was excellent and we hope that Ayden Wood recovers soon from

the broken leg sustained in the game. Well done to Kirsty Murrell and Megan Thomson who played in the Stirling County team against Grantown Grammar on Sunday 4th March. The team won 39-0 and both girls will now play in the final of the Brewin Dolphin Plate.

Congratulations

Well done to ‘Scrabble’ and ‘Jellical Catz’ the two teams representing Alloa Academy at the Forth Valley Schools Dance

Competition on Friday night. Both teams danced exceptionally well and were unlucky not to be placed. A DVD of the performance will be available shortly after Easter for anyone who didn’t make it along to support the teams.

Fairtrade Fortnight

This is the second week of our Fairtrade Fortnight and sales of juice and other tasty goodies have been going well. A Powerpoint explaining the benefits of fair trade has been prepared to be shown in House groups.

S3 Exams

S3 pupils have been sitting exams this week, with some exams taking place in the assembly hall. Uniform reminder Please note that leggings are not appropriate school uniform wear. School trousers or skirts should be worn and skirts should be of an appropriate length. Large piece of jewellery or hair ornaments should not be worn. The standard of uniform has been good this year so far and we do not wish to see that deteriorate. Uniform can now be ordered online direct from Logoexpress.

Letter re Minor Injuries Unit

A letter from the NHs has been given out to all pupils. It details the location of the Minor Injuries Unit at Stirling community Hospital.

WHAT’S ON Alloa Bow Mar user group: Monday 19th March, 7.00pm meeting open to anyone living in the Bow Mar Place, and all groups using the centre. Nursery Class Enrolment: Claremont Nursery Class will be enrolling pre-school and pre-pre school age children for the nursery class (commencing August 2012) on Wednesday, 29th February and Thursday, 1st March, 2012 between 9.30am and 3.30pm (excluding 12.30 – 1.30 p.m.). Application forms will be available from the school office on the above dates. Please bring along your child’s birth certificate and proof of residency. For further information or if the above dates are unsuitable, please call 01259 214978. WAGGS: Clackmannanshire Women and Girls Group are always looking for new members with fun ideas, if you are looking for something different to do on a Monday night why not come along to the Bowmar Centre 6.30 till 8.30. You can join our Zumba class, relax and have a cuppa and a chat, learn a new craft, browse the Centre library, swap books, make new friends as well. We are presently working out our monthly activities and we’re interested in learning new skills.. so if you are female, aged 10 to 110, and would like to join us we will be pleased to see you. We have a creche most nights so no worries about the bairn. We are quite a musical lot, so there could be the odd karaoke night, we try to put on a festive show each December, which involves singing, dancing, comedy etc...you could be a budding star, but don’t worry it’s not compulsory. For more information phone Aileen on 07519656215 or Heather on 07709189880. Sunday night dance: Old time, modern and sequence dance will be held in Alloa Town Hall from now until April 15 2012 from 7pm for 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Admission is £5. On March 11, David Vernon will be providing the entertainment. Bring your own refreshments. Alloa Carers Centre: Alloa Carers Centre is working with Community House and has a weekly coffee morning at Community House, 23 Maree Court on Mondays between 10am and noon. All carers welcome. Play Alloa: Easter Playscheme places are now available. Please see your session coordinator for a booking form. The Easter Playscheme will run from 10 -13 April in the Lesser Hall at Sauchie Hall. Pre-booking is required. The Monday Group (for over 16s) has received £4000 funding from Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland. This will help to support the group over the next 6 months. Parents/Carers are advised to check out the group’s website at playalloa.co.uk for news and up to date calendar dates. Play Alloa provides play and social opportunities to children and young

weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

What’s on in your weecounty adults with additional support needs from Clackmannan District. Please let us know if you would like to carry out any fundraising activities on behalf of Play Alloa or make a donation towards our services. For further information please contact Maria Malcolm, Project Manager, Play Alloa by phoning 07800859161 or emailing playalloa@ aol.com. Clackmannanshire Listeners AGM: Notice is hereby given that Clackmannanshire Listeners will hold their AGM on the 24th of March 2012 at 10am in the Lufgate Church Community Halls. Any business to be included in the Agenda should be send to the secretaryMrs J Gillies, 37 Main st., Tullibody, FK10 2PY- no later than the 17th of March 2012. Everyone is welcome to attend. Community Council - The next meeting will be held on Monday 12 March, 2012 at 7.00pm in Alva Baptist Church. Community Business will be discussed. Members of the Public are welcome to attend.

Alva Ceilidh: In Cochrane Hall on March 10 from 7.30pm until 11.30pm. Jack Delaney and his band will provide the music for the night and a supper will be provided. On this occasion it will be a bring your own bottle event and will cost £8 per ticket. If anyone fancies a good night out, with good entertainment and good company please call Andy or Pat on 01259 723413 for tickets. If we are out, please leave a message on the machine and we will get back ASAP. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Alva CAP on Thursdays from 10am - 10.30am Alva Baptist Church: Coffee mornings are held in the church each Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am. Go and join them for a friendly chat over a hot drink and home baking. Community Notice Board: The notice board is situated outside the CAP/ library. Groups and individuals and ‘not for profit’ organisations can advertise activities and display posters here. See the notice board for further details.

Clackmannan The 36th Stirling (Clackmannan) Company: The Boys’ Brigade meets in Clackmannan Town Hall on Fridays from 5.30 pm. New recruits will be made most welcome and parents should contact the leaders for details of the session’s programme. Contact Kathy for Anchor Boys on 07891389542, Lucy for Junior Section on 07538693554 and Bill for the Company Section on 216763. Clackmannan Parish Church of Scotland: Sunday morning worship is at 11.00 am when, to mark Fairtrade Fortnight, the Sunday School focus the

service on “The Big Brew” - an event helping families to flourish. Brew-up with us, enjoy a cuppa and support the Traidcraft Stall that will be there and taking orders for Real Easter Eggs. On Monday at 7.30 pm the Guild meet for fellowship. On Tuesday the Coffee Morning is open from 10.00 am in the Church Hall. On Wednesday in the Bruce Memorial Hall the Church Choir meets for practice at 6.45 pm when new members will be made most welcome and at 8.00 pm. you can join the Prayer Group for the second of our 2012 Lent Studies “Finding a Voice”, a reflection on the film “The King’s Speech”. For more information on these and other activities please visit our web site at www. clackmannankirk.org. Anyone requiring the services of a minister should contact the Revd Scott Raby on 211255. The Thrift Shop: The thrift shop will be open on March 2nd from 1.30 pm — 3.30 pm with a selection of recently acquired, extremely reasonably priced, quality clothes. On 9th March we will again have a Bread and Soup Lunch but from 11.30 am — 2.30 pm this time. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Clackmannan CAP on Wednesdays from 10.30am - 11am Lodge Clackmannan1303: Senior members dinner will be held on Wednesday March 28 in the Masonic Hall, Clackmannan at 7pm. All senior members 65 or over with their wife/ partner, also widows of senior members are invited to attend. Names to be given to any member of the lodge by Wednesday March 21 or telephone 214463 or 722770. Zumba: With Ian at Clackmannan Town Hall Monday nights 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Have fun and get fit at the same time.

Coalsnaughton Coalsnaughton Burns Club: Cash bingo every Monday in the lounge. Contact 01259 750517. Eyes down at 8.15pm, finished by 9.45pm. Fruit Barra: The Coalsnaughton Fruit Barra is open in Coalsnaughton Village Hall from Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a cuppa at Coalsnaighton’s Community Cafe Society. If you have an hour or two to spare to help, please call into the hall. Telephone 01259 759099.

Cambus Cambus District Bowling Club: There will be a bingo tea in clubhouse on Tuesday 13th March 7 for 7.30. In aid of Claremont under 17’s Foot Ball Club.

Dollar Dollar SWRI: The next meeting of the

Institute will be on Monday 5th March, when Mr Ian Whyte will be talking about a Charity Walk round Britain. This will be held in the Civic Centre at 7.25 pm. Competitions `1. A British Scenic Photograph. 2. 3 pieces of Tiffin. Table-Top-Sale: Tables are still available for the table-top-sale in Dollar on Saturday 31 March. You can sell old toys, bric-a-brac, plans, craft work, etc. Tables cost £10. For more information or to book email alloaoffice@ centralcarers.co.uk or telephone 01259 226839. Dollar newspaper and magazine collection: Dates for 2012 –6 March; 3 April; 1 May; 5 June; 3 July; 7 August; 4 September; 2 October; 6 November; 4 December. Dollar Boys’ Brigade: Dollar Boys’ Brigade are selling quiz sheets with all proceeds going to Stirling and District Battalion funds. All answers are countries and the closing date for entries is 9 March. Quiz sheets are available from Brian Devlin’s, Jeanette Littlejohn, Muckhart Kirk, Jessie Condie (743219) or BB boys and leaders. Hope you enjoy trying to solve the clues. The draw for winners will take place at Company Section on 16 March. Dollar Museum: The Museum is now closed and will re-open on Easter Saturday 7 April, when a new exhibition will be displayed. Thereafter opening times are Saturdays 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm and Sundays 2pm to 4.30pm. The Museum is at the top of the East Burnside. Entry is free and all are welcome. The next meeting of Dollar History Society will be held on Tuesday, 13th. March, when we shall look forward to hearing about The Enigma of Captain Blighfrom our speaker for the evening, Professor Emeritus Gavin Kennedy of Heriot-Watt University. The meeting will be held as usual in Dollar Academy Dining Hall and will begin at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome and are asked to pay £2. Students and pupils are always welcome free of charge. Bowling Club: A games night will be held in Dollar Bowling Club on February 24. Darts, dominoes and pool or just come for a good blether. All welcome.

Fishcross Wee County Walkers: Why not join in the free walks led by the Wee County Walkers? Become fitter as you enjoy and easy interesting walk. No need to book. Meet us in the car park beside Cats’ Protection just before 2pm on Tuesday. Back in time to meet the children coming out of school. Walks are suitable for all ages and abilities. Find out about local history as we walk. Put on comfortable footwear, dress for the weather and enjoy. Short, safe walks open to everyone. For more information contact Jane on 01259 290316 or 07825 052677. Come on your own or bring a friend. Charity Shop: The Cats Protection charity shop in Alloa Road, Fishcross,

is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1pm to 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm selling good second hand clothing, bric-a-brac, books and new goods.

Welcome. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Sauchie CAP on Tuesdays from 2pm - 2.30pm

Kincardine

Tillicoultry

Tulliallan Bowling Club: Friday February 24 Ladies night with Martin Bannan £15. Saturday 17 March cabaret Kool Kats £5.

Menstrie Menstrie Tiny Tots: A club run by mums for mums. This voluntarily organised group meet during term time on Mondays and Thursdays from 10am until 12noon at the Dumyat Centre. All ages from babies to three-years-old are welcome. A healthy snack and drink are provided. A chance for mums and children to interact together through play and planned craft activities. £1.50 per visit – first session free. For more information call in or telephone Sarah on 01259 761098. Cancer Support Group: The group will be in the Dumyat Leisure Centre every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Drop in for a chat and a coffee, everyone welcome.

Muckhart Muckhart Quilters: The group meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the Coronation Hall from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Mavis 781473 or Sue 743226.

Sauchie Sauchie and Coalsnaughton Parish Church: The Rev Bill Izett conducted both services on Sunday 26 February. The Scripture lesson was taken from Jeremiah Ch 29 v 4-14 and was read by Mrs Shirley McCouat. In his sermon Rev Izett told the congregation that God alone knows the plan He has for us personally and for all of us as people of God. God loves us deeply and dearly. He blesses us in many different ways and He will continue to do so. We do not journey through life alone. The Pancake Coffee Morning to raise funds for the Summer Holiday Club raised the sum of £500. Anyone wishing to join the Strollers on Wednesday 29 February should meet at the Post Office at 12.50 pm to catch the bus for Stirling. The World Day of Prayer Service will be held at 7.30 pm on Friday 2 March. All

Tillicoultry Flood Action Group: A meeting of the above group open to all members of the community will be held in the Devonvale Hall on Monday, March 5 at 7pm when representatives of Clackmannanshire Council will be presenting their plans for the proposed pumping station. A home flood prevention exhibition in the Hall will also be open to the public from 4pm. Zumba Class: A Zumba class is held in Tillicoultry Centenary hall on Wednesday’s from 8pm – 9pm. Contact 01259 721886 for information. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Tillicoultry Library on Thursdays from 10am - 10.30am Tillicoultry Flood Action Group: A meeting of the above Group open to all members of the community will be held in Devonvale Hall on Monday March 5th at 7pm when representatives of the Clackmannanshire Council will be presenting their plans for the proposed pumping station. A home flood prevention exhibition in the Hall will also be open to the public from 4pm. Zumba: With Ian at Tillicoultry Centenary Hall every Wednesday 8pm to 9pm. Have fun and get fit at the same time. Prize Bingo: On the 9th March will be prize Bingo in Aid of parents and friends of Clackmannanshire children. WIll be held in the Centenary Hall. 50p entry eyes down 7.30.

Tullibody World Day of Prayer: This service will be held on March 2 in St Serf’s church at 7pm. It has been written by Christian woman of Malaysia – “her justice prevail”. All welcome Tullibody and Cambus Girlguiding: To join the leadership team. Contact Ann-Margaret on 07908 252104 or Girlguiding Clackmannanshire on 01259 211318.

Do you have an event you would like to publish in ‘whats on in your wee county’? Email the details to: weecounty@hubpublishing.co.uk or call: 01259 404006

weecoun

Tuesday 6.3.12

R E T N E O T E IM T L IL T S

AGE CATEGORIES ars 0-1 years, 2-3 years and 4-5 ye

-•-•- Competit Some of the entries

1st Prize for each category is: goodies PLUS an Eden Gift Bag, packed full of ion experience. a professional photographic sess rked with childs full Send us your pictures (clearly ma and your contact details).

name, age

.co.uk • by email: wcn@hubpublishing tiff format) (300dpi or higher in jpg, pdf or • or by post: wee county news, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG Closing date for entries: 29.2.12 Sponsored by:

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(12 noon)

Eden Beauty Emporium

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Entries and Voting coupons will be printed in the paper in the following weeks

HOW TO VOTE - collect the voting slip and wait until we print the entries in their correct categories with their specific photograph ID number

Lacey

(15months)

weecounty news

-•-•- Competition 2012 -•-•I would like to vote for ___________________________ (photo no. _________) , age group ______________

Post or deliver your entry to: wee county news, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG

1 /2 y r s ) E l l ie (2

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Tuesday 6.3.12

tion 2012 -•-•so far

Rory (9 months)

Tyler James (6mths)

Z ac ( 9 m t h s)

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s) Jak e (6 m onth

Ab bi e (3 yr s)

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Andrew (5mths)

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entertainment weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Your Horoscope What you should - and shouldn’t - steal Your Horoscope Predictions Suzie’s Predictions Sizzling from your girlfriend’s bathroom cabinet Re-GEN THE

By Anne SmithSmith By Anne Aries (21 March - 20 April)

Libra (24 Sept – 23 Oct)

As with all endings come new beginnings and you feel like you have closed a chapter in your life. This is good news, so now move forward and do not allow insecurities about your future make you panic. You have done the right thing it is time for a clean sweep new you new beginnings so enjoy it. .

There are a few barriers on your path and if you stay focused and do not give in to bureaucracy you will succeed! Some of you are signing documents of a legal nature and there is much to celebrate in the next few weeks. Keep going forward with your new found vigour.

Taurus (21 April – 21May) The big thing on your mind this month is your financial situation and this is causing you to be a little on the cautious side pessimistic even! You are learning new skills which will benefit you in the long term and your finances are improving with you new determination to succeed this month, so take that first step forward, confident and in control!

Scorpio (24 Oct – 22 Nov) There is confusion with emotional issues, you want everything but nothing is satisfying. You are allowed to be fed up every now and then but just watch that you do not miss an opportunity which may be under your nose, and one more thing, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side!

Gemini (22 May – 21 June)

Sagittarius (23 Nov–21Dec)

IThis month has a double edge to it, in one hand your ideas for making money are good and successful and on the other your gullibility in thinking everyone is like you, may cause you problems as you are trusting people who should not be trusted. Try to keep your business and financial information close to your chest.

The last few weeks have left you feeling a little dishevelled. The new moon in February gives you a much needed lift and you are focusing on long term plans for the future with your nearest and dearest, some of you will be feeling a little romantic and there could be news of wedding bells for some.

Cancer (22 June – 23 July)

Capricorn (22 Dec – 20 Jan)

You are feeling the stress of the last few weeks catch up with you and it is beginning to show on your physical and mental well being. Stop! Take time out for you have a treat, a massage or an hour in the park, away from all your families issues, try to stop accepting an unpleasant situation for the sake of peace as the confrontation will come regardless.

Caution is the key word for you this month, do not rush into anything until you have all the facts and take everything that is said to you with a pinch of salt. However when dealing with local authorities it is important that your own actions cannot be seen to be anything other than 100% accurate and truthful.

Aquarius (21 Jan – 19 Feb)

Leo (24 July – 23 Aug) You’re on your throne again, judging and handing out opinions on how others should live their life according to the disciple “Leo”! Remember pride comes before a fall and do you really need to worry about how everyone else is behaving? Relax and lighten up. Look on the bright side and you will not feel the need to walk away from that which is only an illusion.

As one of the great thinkers, creational or logical you always have so many good ideas that you don not always pursue them, you have a chance to put your ideas in front of a company or a superior and you will be given the recognition you deserve, try not to allow you little insecurities with yourself hold you back.

Pisces (20 Feb – 20 Mar)

Virgo (24th Aug 23 Sept) We all know you like nothing more than a good debate! You enjoy being right too, but a word of caution, check out all your information and facts before signing anything of importance as there is no use shouting about it afterwards. There is good news on its way about finances connected to work and travel.

After a challenging time of it you are immerging from your cocoon full of new ideas how to go forward with your long term plans for your future. Your path is being cleared in order to allow you a smooth and safe passage. Your creativity is at an all time high as your surge ahead with eyes open wide and hand ready to catch all that the universe can throw at you. New, A Psychic Post Bag, where you can write to Anne to ask personal Anne is Spiritualist Medium, Tarot and aside. Reiki Master questions on ayour life or from your loved onesreader on the other

& available for private consultation, healings and church services

Please send your question and three numbers from 0 – 78 or a picture of your loved one in a sealed envelope to on Main Street, Baillieston. Angel Annecontact, Smith c/oANNE The Re Gen, Or e-mail Anne at angelanne@btinternet.com

07506723569

Email angelanne@btinternet.com or visit www.angelanne.co.uk

W Winter

Spreads

hile the likes of David 1990s. While hairspray and Beckham have made straighteners are best left to it much more acceptable the ladies in your life there’s no to spend a bit more time harm in a little styling cream, preening in front of the mirror, wax or pomade to bring your Scots haestillwie Wallace bled, Scots Bruceage. manywha’ men are far from barnet in towham the modern has aften led. Hehehee can’t help quoting our keen on anything more thanSorry a DO! CONDITION national bard on Burns night. Nothing Burns for night spray of deodorant. But here Like a like moisturiser your toarebring outthings your which Scottishness. No wonder it’sisaa big the five it’s hair, conditioner must for celebration hope youmanageable all had your totally alrightalltoover stealthe fromworld. Isoft, shiny, hair. your girlfriend’s toiletry stashMy wee Alright, so came that makes it sound Haggis neeps and tatties. one home ... andnursery a coupleregaling to leave well like joys Pedigree Chum for your from us with the of Scottish alone! and demanding tattiestresses but askI any dancing for dinner. toldwoman him DO! MOISTURISE shetatties. takes two there are lots of Scottish foods.whether Not just Sobottles woman will ever be up with in the shower and she’ll thisNoweek I have come a to couple of traditional impressed by not skin only as scaly as agoodanswer in the positive. What dishes, that taste but are easy to make. lizard’s. There’s nothing wrong other reason do you need with slopping a little cream on than it makes your hair more the face morning and evening strokeable? to keep your cheeks as smooth DO! PLUCK Herring done in oatmeal as a baby’s backside. There While no woman wants to see are whole shelves dedicated to her man sat in front of a mirror Allow herrings in per person men’s1-2 moisturiser chemists, with a pair of Tweezerman for Fine pin head oatmeal stores boutiques, department company she equally won’t Oil and supermarkets alike so be too enamoured with facial Butter take your pick from the suitably hair inspired by the Gallagher 1 lemon manly selection on offer and brothers. There’s no harm in feel the improvement. sorting out a few stray hairs be DO! STYLE YOUR and HAIRpat dry. Press they between brows, on the Wash the herring the fish both the sides into the The UK’s have long or, especially, sprouting oatmeal andmen fry gently in a little oil neck and butter. Cook for 4 min embraced the styling product, fromfresh the nose ears. each side. This is delicious served with peasorand buttered frompotatoes. 80s wet look gelwith (ugh!) TAKE CARE OF YOUR new Serve a wedgeDO! of lemon or squeeze a little over thegooey fish as it cooks. to the waxes of the HANDS

There’s nothing worse than a dirty pair of fingernails, not to mention that the hands are the first dead giveaway of age. So take care to moisturise your palms thoroughly, trim your fingernails (with scissors not your teeth!) and rub a drop of olive oil in to your nails to stop them splitting and breaking. DON’T! DYE Ever noticed how George Clooney’s popularity has risen in direct correspondence to the amount of grey in his hair? While it’s perfectly acceptable for girls to dye for fashion or to cover up the greys there’s something that’s just a bit wrong about reaching for the Just For Men. The problem is that dyed hair is just so, well, obvious. Take a tip from Gorgeous George and go aunaturel. DON’T! MAKE UP While cosmetics companies and even some magazines would have us believe that

Angel Anne

Spiritualist Medium/Psychic &Tarot Email angelanne@btinternet.com or visit www.angelanne.co.uk

Is AvailableFor Readings Every Wednesday Day time & Available Thursday Evenings in Baillieston Glasgow For Private Readings £30 per Reiki Healing andreading Attunements To book on 07506723569 Pastcall LifeAnne Regressions Visit www.angelanne.co.uk or follow her on FB

Psychic and Development Groups

www.healthspan.co.uk FREEPHONE 0800 73 123 77

IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN all you have to do is complete the crossword In abelow bowl add andenough send it to: Wee County News, 38 Primrose flour to the potatoes to Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG *Terms & conditions apply make a rough dry dough.

Roll out gently on a ACROSS 19. Fruit (7) 5. Photos (5) floured surface and cut 1. Assortment (7) 21. Direction (7) 6. Attain (7) into any shape you like. 5. Group of insects (5) 22. Taut or rigid (5) 7. Public declaration (9) I prefer circles. Fry in a 8. Large herbivorous mammal (5) 24. Days of the month (5) 10. Decorated food (9) lightly oiled heavy based pan for 2-3 min each side until just Pagan (7) 25. Embroiled 13. Imprecise (7) browned.9.Eat immediately with almost anything(7)you fancy. I 10. Unfeigned DOWNOr try topped with 15. Abridge (7) love smoked salmon (7) and crème fraiche. 11. Ledge (5)eggs. Alternatively1. Chart 16. Captured (6) buttery scrambled allow(3)to cool and eat 12. Lifted (6) fried up with some 2. Inert gas (5) them at your leisure eggs and bacon. 18. Secret agents (5) 14. Appraise (6) 17. Notions (5)

3. Dissimilar (7) 4. Reverberated (6)

20. Invalidate (5) 23. Conclusion (3)

Cock-a-leekie soup (cheats version) 2 large potatoes chopped into small pieces. 1 large leek halved lengthways and sliced finely Any leftover cold roast chicken 3 chicken stock cubes. Add all ingredients into a large pot with 2 pints of water. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10-15 min or until potatoes are cooked. Great served with buttered plain bread.

Cranachan

ANGEL ANNE Food for the soul Recently featured in “Pick Me Up” Magazine And the Scottish Sun Psychic Medium

Shake off those aches & pains

Devil’s Claw JointAid – 60 tablets £13.95

potato TO BE Plain flour

Please note that we cannot guarantee the safe return of photographs.

Anne is a Spiritualist Medium, Tarot reader and a Reiki Master & available for private consultation, healings and church services contact, ANNE on 07506723569

before long your average man on the street will be sporting foundation and guy-liner it seems somehow unlikely. Don’t fall for the hype, leave make up for the girls. And Marilyn Manson of course.

DODGY PARKING

R 2 AT THE FO L EA M A IN W Leftover cold mashed Homemade Totty scones

CROSSWORD

1 large tub of whipping cream 1 cup of porridge oats 1 pack of frozen or fresh raspberries Honey In a dry pan lightly toast the oats .Keep them moving to avoid burning. the cream with Name: Whip .................................................................. T:. ............................................ a little sugar. Add the oats and Address:..................................................................................................................... berries and stir gently Serve drizzled with a little honey For

We are on the prowl to find the Wee County’s dodgy parkers but we need your help! Unfortunately, we cannot do this campaign on our own – so please send in your dodgy parking pictures to weecounty@ hubpublishing.co.uk. Does one of your colleagues suffer from dodgyparkingitis? If so, take a picture of the evidence and send it to us! Don’t worry, all identities will be protected and vehicle registrations blanked out. This is all in the name of good fun, and in no way are we personally attacking any individual or group.

SUDOKU Answers on page 24

weecounty

lifestyle

Tuesday 6.3.12 19

The top five advantages of home shopping H

ome shopping is nothing new. We’ve been getting our stuff delivered to our door for decades; remember when Kays, Freemans and Grattan were all the rage back in the 70s? Nowadays, catalogue stores are online and you can shop for anything you like in the comfort of your own home, but does it still win out over a trip to the shops? We think so. Here are the top 5 advantages of home shopping. 1. CONVENIENCE The shops might close, but the internet never does; you can browse and order to your heart’s content at all hours of the day and night - even on Boxing Day when the sales start. All this while avoiding the crowds and never having to deal with a pushy sales assistant who pounces on you the minute you get through the door.

2. TRANSPORT Home shopping saves you queueing for hours to find a space in your local multi-storey. No more fiddling around for change for the meter or worrying how you’re going to carry a multitude of bags back to the car: your purchases are delivered right to your door in a matter of days. 3. PRICE COMPARISON There are search engines dedicated to finding the best price for whatever item you could dream of, so unless it’s your thing, you can say goodbye to traipsing from shop to shop trying to find the best deal on that must-have item. Try kelkoo. co.uk or pricerunner.co.uk to find the best deals. Many catalogue shops display reviews of their products too, so you can see what other people thought of them before parting with your cash.

PET of the week

4. CHOICE Home shopping offers a choice of items that you simply can’t find in the high street. One catalogue dedicated to doing just that is Kaleidoscope: in addition to stylish fashion that dares to be a little bit different, you’ll find distinctive home and garden products too that you just can’t get at your local Homebase. If you’re looking for more specialist items, you can browse and buy from abroad, too - just remember to check the cost of delivery and the website’s overseas shipping policy before you buy. Bear in mind also that some items are subject to Customs Duty, Excise Duty or Import VAT if you want to avoid the shock of having to pay the postman for your deliveries. The HMRC website will tell you what items are affected: http://www.hmrc. gov.uk/customs/post/buying.htm 5. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Of course, you can do this in high street stores too - but is there anything worse than showing all your lumps and bumps to the world while battling through a session in a cramped, sweaty communal changing room on a busy Saturday afternoon? Most catalogues offer a hassle-free returns system and will give you a certain period of time usually 7 or 14 days - to make sure you’re completely happy with your new items. Home shopping offers so many conveniences over the high street that it’s hard to list them all, but these are some of our favourite plus points. Why not give it a go for your Christmas shopping this year?

weecounty

Waterfall Cardigan

recipes

Fruity chicken curry

Romeo Breed: Boxer/Bulldog cross Age: 7 months Lives: Sauchie Likes: Lots of attention and treats . Dislikes: Being in the water and being ignored.

To submit your pet please send a photo of your pet to weecounty@ hubpublishing.co.uk or post your photo to The Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG with your name, your pets name, breed, age and his or her likes and dislikes. * although we will try, we cannot guarantee the return of any photos posted to us.

ruit makes a great addition to curry; the sweetness mixes perfectly with the flavours to create sugar and spice and all things nice. This one is ready in a flash - just 30 minutes cooking time for a quick midweek supper. Serves 2. INGREDIENTS 25g butter 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cut into small bite sized chunks 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 3 tbsp curry powder 1 stick of celery, sliced 1/2 an apple, finely diced 1/2 red pepper, chopped 75g sultanas 500ml chicken stock salt and pepper to taste handful of chopped almonds, to garnish

METHOD 1. In a large, heavy bottomed pan, melt the butter on a medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for around 8 minutes, until sealed and browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. 2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and fry gently until translucent, then add the curry powder and stir well.

3. Return the chicken to the pan, then add the celery, apple, red pepper, sultanas and stock. Season to taste, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. 4. Serve immediately with boiled basmati rice, garnishing with the chopped almonds.

recruitment

Tuesday 6.3.12

FLORIST Job No: ALL/23166 SOC Code: 5496 Wage Negotiable depending on experience Hours 20 PER WEEK, 6/7 DAYS BETWEEN 9AM-5PM Location ALVA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK12 Duration Permanent Date posted 28 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have previous experience of working in a florist. Must also have customer service experience and excellent customer service skills as will be customer facing. Main duties will be running the front of the shop, making up arrangements, cash handling, customer service and any other associated tasks as required. Applicants can apply by email to sanwar1@btconnect.com, or by telephoning 01259 760037. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Mr Saeed Anwar at Flowers By Arrangement, 87-89 Stirling Street, Alva, Clackmannanshire, FK12 5ED or to SANWAR1@BTCONNECT.COM. Employer Flowers By Arrangement SEMI SKILLED ROOFING LABOURER Job No: ALL/23037 SOC Code: 9121 Wage ÂŁ7.00 PER HOUR, NEGOTIABLE ON EXPERIENCE Hours 40 PER WEEK, MONDAY FRIDAY, 7:30AM - 4:30PM Location TILLICOULTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK13 Duration Temporary

to Online or email applications only at HC-1, jobs.88139.776@hcone.aplitrak. com. Employer HC-1

Date posted 18 January 2012 Pension details No details held Description Previous experience is not essential as training will be given. A valid clean licence is essential. A CSCS card is an advantage. Duties involve assisting slaters on roofing duties and chimney repair work, assisting all trades people on site, chimney sweeping and all associated tasks. This position is temporary ongoing but will lead to permanent for the right candidate. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 01259 753408 or 07979 598535 and asking for Donald Henderson. Employer D Henderson Chimney Specialist and Roofer Ltd

STORE MANAGER Job No: ALL/23182 SOC Code: 1163 Wage COMPETITIVE RATES OF PAY APPLY Hours 40 HOURS PER WEEK 5 DAYS FROM 7, BETWEEN 9AM - 7PM Location TILLICOULTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK13 Duration Permanent Date posted 01 March 2012 Closing date 15 March 2012 Pension details Pension available Description As the hands-on dual site manager of 2 of our outlet stores, you must have proven Store/Assistant Managers experience within a retail environment, possessing a strong and sustained ability to drive and deliver total customer satisfaction whilst maximising sales and profitability. It is essential that you are an enthusiastic, driven individual with good organisational skills to ensure that your stores are presented in a commercial manner. You must be able to achieve results by effectively leading, coaching and motivating your team to deliver their potential. Key responsibilities include - achievement of store sales and KPIs. Ensure high store operational standards throughout. Visual Merchandising, and all in-store displays. Customer service delivery (personal and team). Stock Integrity. Managing and motivation of all team members.

HANDYPERSON Job No: ALL/23179 Employer Reference: HCO32749 TheOrchard SOC Code: 9121 Wage Meets Nat Min Wage Hours 35 per week, hours to be arranged Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 29 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description To manage overall cleanliness and hygiene of the Care Centre. To manage, participate in the cleaning rota. Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. Disclosure expense will be met by employer. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application

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Are you looking to make the next move that will put your career on the right path? This is an outstanding opportunity to join an expanding newspaper group. You will be part of a dynamic and friendly sales environment, where rewards reflect effort. We will expect you to have drive, determination and flair. A lack of sales experience is not an issue as we pride ourselves on our excellent in-house training. But we will expect you to have excellent communication skills and the ability to work on your own initiative. In return, we will give you a first class salary and excellent bonus potential. If you think you have what it takes, contact us today.

Telesales Executive

How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Anne Smith at Pagazzi Lighting Ltd, anne.smith@ pagazzi.com. Employer Pagazzi Lighting Ltd

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DAY WEEK Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE, STIRL FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 23 February 2012 Closing date 31 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description Area Sales Manager responsible for the promotion and sale of services on the Clacksmax High Speed Rural Broadband Network to both Commercial and Private subscribers markets. Applicants should have a proven track record in sales management preferably in the IT Sector. A company car will be provided upon completion of a successful 3 month probationary period. A mileage allowance will be paid during the probationary period. A full job specification can be provided by applying to job.clacksmax@briskona. com and attach a CV. In addition to a proven sales track record applicants should fully conversant with MS Office applications and capable of creating reports and spreadsheet etc. How to apply You can apply for this job by visiting www.briskona. comOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage. Employer Briskona Ltd AUDIT & FRAUD TEAM LEADER Job No: ALL/23162 Employer Reference: CLA000649 SOC Code: 4111 Wage ÂŁ39,326 - ÂŁ44,281 Hours 36 hrs a week Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 23 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Clackmannanshire Council is seeking to appoint to the position of Audit and Fraud Team Leader. The post is offered as a permanent position within the Revenue and Payments team. Clackmannanshire Council is regarded as a high performing council and the internal audit and fraud service is an important function within Support Services. The service has recently restructured and the new internal audit and fraud team will provide a robust and cost effective service in these key areas for the Council. Reporting to the Revenues and Payments Service Manager, we are looking to appoint a team leader with experience in a complex environment. The Council is going through a period of significant change with several critical projects underway. The Civil Service is an equal opportunities employer. How to apply You can apply for this job

weecounty by visiting www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/ fe/tpl_ScottishPortal01.asp?newms=j j&id=123186&aid=11667Opens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage. Employer Clackmannanshire Council TRANSCRIPTIONIST/AUDIO TYPIST Job No: ALL/23149 SOC Code: 4217 Wage ÂŁ6.08 TO ÂŁ7.00 PER HOUR Hours 15-37.5 PER WEEK MONDAY TO FRIDAY BETWEEN 8AM AND 9PM Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 17 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description We have an opportunity to join our established team in the centre of Alloa, which is key to the first class service our clients receive. Primary duties; To produce neat, well presented files and analogue documents on a word processor from digital sound tapes with a typing speed of approximately 60 wpm, to provide a professional service to clients ensuring confidentiality is adhered to at all times, to adhere to strict deadlines for daily workload. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kirsty Lang at Intelligent Office UK, Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, Clackmannanshire, FK10 1EB or to kirsty.lang@intelligentofficeuk.com. Employer Intelligent Office UK CHEF Job No: ALL/23157 SOC Code: 5434 Wage Negotiable depending on experience Hours 35 hours shifts between Mon Sun 8am-6pm/10am-6.30pm Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 22 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Previous experience and qualifications are preferred. Your duties will involve preparation and cooking of food for residents. Before confirming an appointment for this vacancy, the successful candidate is required to obtain Protection of Vulnerable Group PVG. Expense will be met by the applicant. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 01259 750703 ext 0 and asking for Patricia Mangan. Employer Marchglen Care Centre SALES PERSON/SALES MANAGER Job No: ALL/23153 SOC Code: 1132

Reporter/Trainee Reporter A

re you looking to make the next move that will put your career on the right path? Or perhaps hoping to take that first step into the world of journalism? Hub Media is looking for a talented reporter / trainee reporter to join its team working on the Wee County News, based in Alloa. The successful applicant will be adaptable and able to cover news and sport while bringing exciting ideas to the table. We are looking for an ambitious reporter or graduate with a qualification in journalism, shorthand and knowledge of Scots Law. The ideal candidate will have an excellent news sense and the ability to remain calm while working to a strict deadline.

This is an opportunity to join an expanding company who have a strong portfolio of newspapers across South Lanarkshire, Perthshire and Clackmannanshire. Three papers will be launched from the Alloa office in the very near future and you will play a key part in shaping their content. A car owner would be preferred. Send written applications, including CV and clippings to: Hub Media Ltd Scott Mochar Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Uddingston G71 5PW Tel: 01698 803909 Email: scott@hubpublishing.co.uk

weecounty recruitment Wage MEETS NAT MIN WAGE OTE £50,000 Hours 40 HOURS PER WEEK OVER A 7 DAY ROTA, DAYS AND EVENINGS Location SCOTLAND FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 21 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have strong track record in sales, preferably selling bathrooms and kitchens direct to the public. Will be working in both the showroom and visiting customers at home. This is a unique opportunity for a true sales professional to pick up the reins and with the full backing of the directors, grow the business and sales team throughout Scotland, there will be an excellent package on office for the right person, with the hunger , ambition and ability to help this company to achieve its goals. Benefits include: Company car. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/23153, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

Duration Permanent Date posted 16 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have experience of working in a office environment, basic computer skills and qualifications in computers would be an advantage but not essential. Duties will be contacting and dealing with clients, dealing with paperwork, invoicing, filing and general customer service. The applicant would be required to work form 10am- 2pm on every fourth Saturday. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to John O Malley at J O’Malley, john@ omalleyproperty.com. Employer J O’Malley SPECIALTY DOCTOR IN EMERGENCY MEDICINE Job No: ALL/23129 Employer Reference: 0212047 SOC Code: 2211 Wage £36,807 - £68,638 PER ANNUM Hours 1 TO 40 PER WEEK, FULL AND PART TIME AVAILABLE Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 14 February 2012 Pension details Pension available Description We are delighted to invite applications for Specialty Doctors in Emergency Medicine for the state-ofthe-art Emergency Department within Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Larbert. This is an exciting time to join NHS Forth Valley which completed the move into a purpose built hospital in 2011.These substantive posts will compliment and consolidate “shop-floor”. Emergency Department specialist cover during and outside normal working hours. These posts have been created to deliver safe and accessible emergency care and will allow greater specialist support to the Emergency Department. For further details please speak to Dr Melanie Kava Emergency Medical Consultant and Clinical Lead, Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Larbert. Telephone number 01324 566132 (Mrs Marion Nicole, ED secretary). APPLICATIONS IN THE FORM OF A COMPREHENSIVE C.V. How to apply You can apply for this job by obtaining the employer’s application form from and returning it to Recruitment line at NHS Forth Valley Primary Care, dg.recruitment@nhs.net. Employer NHS Forth Valley Primary Care

Tuesday 6.3.12

7, between 10am - 10pm Location Dollar, Clackmannanshire FK14 Duration Permanent Date posted 14 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must be of Commis Chef standard and be willing to learn. Must have an awareness of health and safety issues. Duties include preparing and cooking lunches and evening meals. Will be working as part of a team of Chef’s. Company states good career progression. Hours and days will be discussed at interviews. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 07976 406517 ext 0 and asking for David Morby. Employer Tourmakin

DEPUTY MANAGER - RMN OR RGN Job No: ALL/23107 SOC Code: 1185 Wage £13.85 PER HOUR Hours ROTA BASIS Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 06 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description You will be a Registered Nurse, able to support the manager by overseeing the effective day to day management of the home. You will have clinical lead within the home with responsibilities for audit and staff supervision. Previous management experience is essential. Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. Disclosure expense will be met by employer. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/23107, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

Employer Reference: actuator technician SOC Code: 5241 Wage Exceeds National Minimum Wage Hours 70 hours over 7 days Location alloa FK10 Duration Temporary Date posted 10 January 2012 Closing date 31 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description ensure understanding and compliance with permit to work requirements Attend pre-job briefs given by the Supervisor to ensure tasks are clearly understood Carry out Point of Work Risk assessment prior to commencing tasks Carry out Actuator tasks in full compliance with Weir and customer HSEQ procedures, including compliance with Weir 5 Key Safety Values.Refer problems clarifications whilst carrying out the works to the appropriate Supervisor.Complete necessary documentation accurately and in a timely manner. Served a recognised electrical mechanical engineering apprenticeship or 5 years on the job experience with regular appraisals assessments to demonstrate competence.Client Contractor National Safety Group Safety Passport.Pay is as per the NAECI blue book, this role would be a temporary role and would be paid at Grade 5. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kevin Devine at Weir Services Limited, The Harlands, New Alloa, Alloa, Clackmananshire, FK10 1TB. Employer Weir Services Limited

STORE MANAGER Job No: ALL/23134 Employer Reference: FO11797 SOC Code: 1163 Wage £21000 to £26000 Per Annum Hours 39 hours to include evenings and weekends Location ALLOA, Clack-mannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 14 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description The Co-operative Food is changing - and we are looking for Store Managers to join us on our journey and strengthen our management team across our stores nationwide. As a Store Manager you can expect to manage in one of our stores leading a team to provide a first class service. You will set an example of exceptional management and develop and drive Actuator Tech the performance of your team. You Job No: ALL/23009 will deliver high standards, drive sales, keep costs within budget and provide excellent customer service. Our aim is to recruit Store Managers that can make a difference and Due to expansion and increased workload we require experienced IFAs to bring a leadership style that will join our team. Working with a broad level of clients ranging from corporate inspire and bring the best out of our to HNW individuals, you will provide tailored financial planning to meet those in store teams. If you have a strong needs of our clients. Advice will be given to clients on the whole spectrum of background in Retail and planning requirements. Management, visit www.co-operative. jobsOpens new window (unless Successful candidate will also have experience in managing introducers. Javascript disabled) to apply on line. Employed and Self Employed positions available and will see candidates How to apply You can apply for

NURSE RGN Job No: ALL/23146 Employer Reference: hco032614 orchard SOC Code: 3211 Wage Competitive rates of pay apply Hours Full Time, Part time and Casual hours available Days/nights Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 16 February 2012 Closing date 15 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description RNA or RGN Level 1 required. To register as a nurse or midwife in the UK visit www.nmcuk.orgOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled). HC-One is a care provider with a clear vision and we are looking for qualified nurses both RGN or RMN with excellent clinical skills to help us become the kindest care home operator in the UK. Our colleagues are really important to us and they are at the forefront of changing the ways we deliver care and would like to invite you to be part of this exciting new development. You’ll Chef need to demonstrate a positive can Job No: ALL/23135 do will do approach coupled with good SOC Code: 5434 communication and interpersonal Wage Negotiable depending on skills to succeed. Flexibility and a experience passion for caring combined with the Hours 32-40 per week, 5 days out of ability to make a difference, you’ll BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY have a kind, supportive and calm approach to Residents in our care. . successful candidates will be required to undergo a CRB, PVG or AccessNI. Apply Online URL: Bar & Catering Franchise Available How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Recruitment Hub Requirements would be mainly Fridays, at HC-1, jobs.48770.776@hcone. Saturdays and Sundays. aplitrak.com. Employer HC-1

Dollar Golf Club

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Job No: ALL/23144 SOC Code: 4150 Wage £6.08 PER HOUR Hours MIN 25 HRS PER WEEK, MONDAY-FRIDAY , VARIED HOURS Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10

this job by visiting www.co-operative. jobsOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage. Employer Co-operative Group

FINANCIAL ADVISERS WANTED

OTE £100,000

working to set quarterly targets. Rewards for managing and increasing funds under management alongside the generation of new business are given.

Successful advisors will see on target income in excess of £100,000.

Additional hours would be available to cover special events during the week.

or on 0808 108 1186 for further information.

For further details contact: Scott - 07711 148 762 Dug - 07703 572 344

Urban Black Associates, Lomond Suite, Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Tannochside Park, Uddingston, G71 5PW. Urban Black Associates is a trading style of Urban Black Ltd.

lifestyle weecounty

Tuesday 6.3.12

Create a productive urban garden F

or those of us with small urban gardens or maybe just a balcony or patio, the idea of growing our own fruit and veg may seem a distant dream. But with a little innovation and effort, it’s quite possible to provide food for the table from a very limited space. Varieties are now available that have been specifically brought onto the market for container growing. The biggest choice is from seed catalogues, although there are plug plants or readygrown plants also available from garden centres and mail order companies. Browse through their available selections, and you will be surprised to find that you can grow an amazing range of fruit and veg in a very small space. The tumbling type of

tomatoes and strawberries have been popular with container gardeners for a few years, but peppers, chillies and aubergines are just as easy to grow and offer different additions to your table. Herbs are easily grown in an upright strawberry pot, a trough on a window ledge or in an old sink, while bay trees do very well in a pot, providing they are protected during the harsh winter months. Why not try something more exotic and plant a blueberry bush in a pot to enjoy the tasty, dusty fruits in the summer? Grow your own spuds in black sacks or an old dustbin for extra special new potatoes for the family to enjoy. The pick-and-come-again salad and leafy greens are great for container growing. Containers for your plants

From herbs and salads to flowers, balconies and patios can produce a surprising range of plants. need not be expensive, and nowadays there are attractive plastic pots available which are not only cheap, lightweight and practical, but have the advantage of not absorbing precious water, unlike terracotta, so your compost stays moist for longer. Buy a range of sizes suitable for the individual needs of your plants, paying special attention to the mature size. When planting, general purpose compost is suitable for most plants, but always check the label or seed packet for any special requirements before planting. A handful of water-retaining crystals added to the compost will help with water retention. Fill the pot up to an inch from the top, then tap down to gently firm the compost. Scoop out a hole in the centre a little bigger than the root ball on your new plant, then pop the plant in, gently firming the compost around it. Water generously and check that the soil is level with the

top of the original root ball. When sowing from seed always follow the seed manufacturer’s instructions regarding depth, time of year to sow and aftercare. Now all you have to do is make sure your containers are regularly fed and watered. When flowers appear, step up the feeding with a feed that is high in potash, readily available at your local garden centre. Some plants, like tomatoes and other upright varieties, will need support to prevent the stems snapping in the wind or when laden with fruit. With simple plant care, you and your family can look forward to plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables from your very own container veg patch.

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Plant Sterols 750mg – 90 tablets £12.95 www.healthspan.co.uk FREEPHONE 0800 73 123 77

weecounty property

Tuesday 6.3.12

Make room for family fitness C

reating a family fitness room makes it easier than ever to stick to your workout -and it’s a great place for the kids to chill out, too. Obviously choose the biggest space you can for the fitness area, but don’t forget to create an atmosphere of warmth. That way it will be an inviting space for the whole family. Experiment with different types of lighting and use cherry or walnut trim for added luxury. Durable, selfadhesive carpet squares help cushion floor exercises. Blinds offer privacy while one person is working out and others are watching TV. Conversely, keeping the blinds up allows exercisers to watch TV or even incorporate exercise videos into the workout. Putting mirrored panels on the back wall not

only reflects light and gives the room a more open feel, but also has a practical function. Being able to see yourself when performing strength-training exercises helps you check your posture for better results and less risk of injury. And for the kids, why not make the centrepiece of the room a wild, wavy climbing wall? It will create an interesting design element, and provide endless fun for the youngsters. More importantly though, it will ensure kids make exercise a lifelong habit. Variation keeps families committed to exercise and improves fitness because it encourages working out different muscle groups in different ways. There are other practical considerations to a family fitness room. Safety aside, exercisers should be able to

secure or stow gear that little ones could hurt themselves on. When everyone is done using the room, there should be a place to put everything. So make sure there’s plenty of storage room and space for everyone to exercise. A wardrobe with ample shelving and drawers for each person’s towel and exercise clothes is essential. As is ample shelving for holding equipment such as dumbbells, and a few towel racks would be a good idea too. The space behind the climbing wall could also serve to store equipment when you need more floor space for aerobics or the next time the kids want to roll out the mats to do a little tumbling. For most families, the key to fitness can be summed up in one word: convenience.

Few things are more convenient than having all the essentials of a fitness club right in the middle of your house. But the room ideally has to work as part of a home and as a part of the

lives of the family using it. So remember, if you’re going to commit a space in your home to fitness and exercise, you have to make it inviting and motivating. A weight bench and an old treadmill down

in a dark corner of the cellar won’t really work. You should want to spend time there and make it so there’s something for everyone: yourself, your spouse, and even the youngest children.

Shake off those aches & pains

Devil’s Claw JointAid – 60 tablets £13.95 www.healthspan.co.uk FREEPHONE 0800 73 123 77

motors

Tuesday 6.3.12

Motoring

weecounty

Driving each other nuts N

ext time you and your partner go out together, it may be a good idea to get a taxi or use public transport rather than the car. According to recent research, put a couple together in a car and the only place they’re likely to drive each other is round the bend. The survey, by breakdown specialist Green Flag, found that one-in-five people regularly argued with their partner about their driving skills and bad habits. We’re not too happy about lending our pride and joy to each other either. Women are slightly more trusting than men, with three-quarters saying they would allow their partner to use their car. When it comes to men, only two-thirds would be prepared to hand over the keys. There is some basis for caution here: one-in-five respondents admitted to having had an accident in their partner’s car. How bad can the differences become? Well, among the 17 to 24-year-olds, almost one

PETROL PRICES UNLEADED ASDA - Alloa - 133.7 Morrisons - Alloa - 133.9 Tesco - Alloa - 134.9 Highest - 140.9 DIESEL ASDA - Alloa - 140.7 Morrisons - Alloa - 140.9 Tesco - Alloa - 141.9 Highest - 146.9 Source: petrolprices.com Prices correct at time of print.

in 10 had broken up with a partner over their car. The figure for all ages is slightly lower, with just three per cent admitting a car was the reason for a relationship break-up. When it comes to fixing things, half of the women surveyed said they would trust their partner to carry out minor maintenance checks or repairs, yet eight in 10 men said they would never ask their partner for help. When asked if they have ever stopped to help someone who had broken down, half of men said they had helped, compared with only onein-five women. Maybe that shows a sensible regard for safety in public, but there is a generational difference too. Older people were more willing to help, with over a third of drivers aged over 55 having stopped to help someone, whereas only a tenth of the 17 to 24-yearolds surveyed had ever offered to assist. The advice for helping to maintain a happy relationship would seem to be straightforward then: if you’re going out, especially on a nice romantic date, keep your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel and leave the car behind.

Road to trouble - couples don’t see eye to eye over driving.

PUZZLE ANSWERS from page 18

SUDOKU ANSWERS

es David Morton Ltd c i r P Top Cars - Vans - All Scrap Metal Paid

01324 612 876 Glen Works, Glen Village, Falkirk

CROSSWORD ANSWERS for last weeks Crossword competition answers see page 7

weecounty

motors

Tuesday 6.3.12

THE RIGHT CAR AT THE RIGHT PRICE. Outstanding service comes as standard. 04 04 Vauxhall Corsa 1.2 Energy Twinport, Black , 27,184 miles . £3,495

10 10 Vauxhall Corsa 1.2 Exclusive, Black Sapphire, 17,703 miles ... £7,495

10 59 Ford Focus 1.8 Zetec, Frozen White, 15,918 miles..... £9,495

05 54 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Flame, Vitro, 36,005 miles ................. £3,995

09 09 Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 Design, Black Sapphire, 28,000 miles .. £7,795

09 09 Volvo S40 1.6D S, Titanium Grey, 19,782 miles .......... £9,995

06 06 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Zetec Climate, Tango Red, 56,166 miles .....£4,495

09 59 Seat Leon S 1.9 TDi Emocion, Techno Grey, 53,520 miles .. £7,995

07 57 Vauxhall Astra 2.0 VXR, Flame Red, 21,821 miles ..... £9,995

07 57 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Style, Tango Red, 41,200 miles ........ £5,295

11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Edge, Ink Blue, 5,946 miles ............... £7,995

10 60 Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi Edge, Panther Black, 11,428 miles . £9,995

05 55 Suzuki Grand 1.6 Vitara, Clear Beige, 45,000 miles... £5,495

11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Edge, Moondust Silver, 7,036 miles .. £7,995

06 56 Toyota Corolla 1.4 T2 VVTi, Sunburst Red, 34,441 miles £5,495

09 09 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec, Sea Grey, 39,500 miles............ £7,995

11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec, Panther Black, 2,500 miles .. £9,995

08 08 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec Climate, Ocean Blue, 30,502 miles . £5,695

09 59 Vauxhall Astra 1.8 SRi, Black Sapphire, 39,434 miles . £8,495

08 58 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec, Ocean Blue, 47,115 miles ....... £5,995

10 10 Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SRi, Silver Lightning, 22,610 miles . £8,495

06 06 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Zetec, Moondust Silver, 52,756 miles £5,995

10 60 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Studio, Colorado Red, 6,957 miles .. £8,495

08 08 Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 SXi, Black Sapphire, 32,733 miles ... £5,995

09 09 Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi Titanium, Sea Grey, 46,704 miles £8,495

08 58 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec, Vision, 25,297 miles .............. £6,995

09 59 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec, Squeeze, 19,657 miles .......... £8,795

09 09 Vauxhall Astra 1.4 Active, Black Sapphire, 23,251 miles .... £6,995

09 09 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Zetec, Avalon, 30,659 miles ...... £8,995

10 10 Ford Ka 1.3 Style, Midnight, 7,816 miles .................... £6,995

11 60 Ford Fiesta 1.25 Edge, Colorado Red, 5,600 miles .... £8,995

10 10 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Zetec S, Sea Grey, 14,572 miles ...... £10,495 10 60 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Zetec, Frozen White, 10,328 miles .. £10,495 09 59 Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Titanium, Panther Black, 17,060 miles. £10,695 10 60 Ford Mondeo 1.8 TDCi Sport, Silver, 34,411 miles ....... £10,995 11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Zetec S, Panther Black, 13,068 miles ...... £11,495 11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Zetec S, Panther Black, 12,787 miles . £11,995 11 11 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Zetec, Panther Black, 8,833 miles ... £11,995

08 58 Toyota Yaris 1.3 TR, Decuma Grey, 22,936 miles........ £6,995

08 08 Peugeot 407 2.0 HDi Bellagio, Flamenco Red, 30,413 miles .. £8,995

11 11 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Sport, Ink Blue, 13,208 miles... £12,995

08 57 Ford C-MAX 1.8 TD Style, Ocean Blue, 43,418 miles . £6,995

11 60 Ford Focus 1.8 Zetec, Panther Black, 26,109 miles ... £8,995

11 11 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Zetec, Ink Blue, 8,467 miles £13,995

06 06 Mazda5 Sport 2.0D Estate, Carbon Grey, 53,000 miles .. £6,995

11 60 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec, Moondust Silver, 25,027 miles . £8,995

09 09 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium 4x4, Silver, 48,012 miles .. £15,995

08 08 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec, Avalon, 21,250 miles ............... £6,995

11 60 Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec, Panther Black, 21,218 miles ... £9,495

10 60 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium 4x4, White, 9,464 miles .... £20,995

10 10 Ford Ka 1.2 Zetec, Blush, 19,501 miles ...................... £7,495

09 09 Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi Zetec, Avalon, 40,000 miles ...... £9,495

11 11 Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium 4x4, Midnight Sky, 5,624 miles . £22,995

07 07 Audi A3 1.9 TDi Special Edition

08 57 Ford Galaxy 2.0 TDCi Ghia

11 11 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Ti-VCT S1600

10 10 Vauxhall Corsa 1.6 VX Racing

Air Conditioning, Alloy Wheels, Remote Central Door Locking

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sport

Tuesday 6.3.12

DARTS ALLOA MASTERS QUALIFIER The second qualifier will take place at the Oakwood on Saturday March 31st with a 4pm reg. Entry is £5 all names to Davie Hanson asap. One winner will join local player John Goldie and take on Gary Anderson, Ted Hankey, Paul Nicolson & Darryl Fitton at the Finals in August. COUNTY SINGLES FINALS SPONSORED BY OAKWOOD LOUNGE The Ladies & Gents County Singles Finals will be held this Friday March 9th at the Oakwood, all players please be in venue for 715pm CLACKMANNAN COUNTY PREMIER LEAGUE 2012 The County Premier League will again be held in the Oakwood starting Friday May 11th. All names to Colin Mitchell or Davie Hanson asap. £25 entry fee payable. Players must commit to playing every Friday. SUPER LEAGUE The County Super League for Ladies & Gents will be held on One day, Saturday March 31st with a 1pm reg. All county players are asked to attend. This is also open to all wee county league players who don’t play for other counties. All names to davie asap. COUNTY MEETING The County will have a meeting on Saturday March 31st with a12 noon start. All players are welcome to attend to discuss any inter county matters. FACEBOOK Catch up with all the latest news from the County and League on Clackmannan County Darts page!

FANZONE

weecounty

DOLLAR GOLF

Another Successful County Golf Dinner

COLOMBIA CALL FOR CALLUM

Tulliallan’s Callum Macaulay makes the long trip with six other Scots to South America to play in his second Challenge Tour event to be played over the 6827yard par 72 course at Barranquilla Country Club this week. Callum had a good finish earlier in India to give him second place in the rankings and he will be keen to hang on to this position.

raehead Golf Club was the venue for the Clackmannan County Golf Union Golf Dinner and Presentation of Prizes last Friday. County President George Kay was highly pleased with the turnout saying “ It was good to see around 70 local golfers, officials and the major 2011 prize-winners at Braehead, with all six Clubs in the Union well represented. An excellent meal was provided and hopefully those present obtained a bit of motivation for the new season” Chairman Tom Paterson did an excellent job introducing the guest speaker Jimmie Stirling, with the presentation of prizes following on. Top prize-winner for 2011 was undoubtedly Lawrence Allan (Alva) who became the youngest winner of the County Championship. Fellow Club member Michael Robertson retained his Order of

WORLD AMATEUR GOLF RANKINGS In the latest R&A World rankings, Alva’s Lawrence Allan at 1598 stays in the top 50 Scottish golfers, while Dollar’s Scott Borrowman is further back at 2011.

Saturday 3rd March 2012 - Skol Trophy

Stephen Takes the Skol Merit title for the third time, and also won the Harrower Trophy (best scores in county meetings) Braehead’s Scott Moffat took the Match Play title, and team prizes were won by Alloa ( County Fours, County League) and Dollar (County Mixed Fours). A special

award was given to Tulliallan’s Bob Stewart, the leading Clackmannan Senior golfer. Lawrence Allan and Scott Moffat will go forward to represent Clackmannanshire at the Champion of Champions event held at Leven Links in April.

MIDLAND ALLIANCE

After a quiet spell, locals made an impact at the latest Midland Alliance event held over Montrose Links with Clackmannanshire players taking the top handicap places--- Alloa’s Chris Westland led the way with a net 63, 3 shots ahead of Tulliallan’s Billy Bell. In the scratch section, Bob Stewart continues to grind out the scores, and his 68 gave him 6th position among mostly professional golfers. In the amateur prize lists, Chris Westland lies 5th and Bob Stewart 9th equal, while on the professional side Braehead’s Jamie Stevenson is in 2nd equal position.

A League:- Locker Room A 7 Oakwood A 2 Crown A 5 Inn 4 Peppes 6 Crown B 3 Allanbridge 6 Locker Room B 3 Oakwood C 4 Alva GC 5 Couldn’t be any tighter at the top of the A League with both the Locker Room A and Crown A tied on both points and frame difference battling for the title. B League:- Crosskeys 3 Oakwood B 6 County 9 Upstairs 0 Oakwood D 5 Weirs 4 County Singles Results:- E.Lewcio 3 B.McAdam 0,M.Leatherbarrow 2 M.Ross 3, K.Polley 3 B.Smith 0, L.Dick 0 S.Dobbie 3, G.Wardlaw w/o C.Meighan, S.Douglas w/o B.Tinline, A.Taylor 3 J.Glass 2, G.Jaglar 3 S.Siddiq 1, B.Snaddon w/o JP Lee, R.Hutchison 3 K.Pajor 0,G.Parker w/o G.Sneddon, B. 2 D.McLeod 3, B.Low 2 B.Corkhill 3, R.Benvie 3 D.Kerr 2

he postponed Skol Trophy played on Saturday 3rd March featured a good turnout. In the overall good playing conditions there was some impressive scores returned and it was Stephen Leitch whose net 62 topped the leaderboard by one stroke from Sandy Bonnar. Div 1: 1st Sandy Bonnar (11) 63; 2nd Gareth Davies (9) 64; 3rd Darren Hulston (+3) 66. Div 2: 1st Stephen Leitch (13) 62; 2nd Craig Smith (13) 67; 3rd Terry Young (17) 67.

Muckhart GC

POOL

Week 22 Results

Super 11’s County Team Championships

big field turned out on 3rd March for the final in the series of Gent’s Winter Medals. In excellent conditions for the time of year Peter Long won with 43 points, while the Winter Aggregate competition was concluded with Mike Stein winning by 1 point from Norman Richardson.

Clackmannanshire have two teams representing the wee county this weekend at the Super 11’s being held in Craigtara Holiday Park in Ayr with both teams having a couple of difficult opponents to overcome in the group stages.

3rd March Winter Medal 6 1st Peter Long 43 pts 2nd Mike Stein 41 pts 3rd Scott Marshall 41pts 4th Neil Hill 40 pts

The A team’s difficulties will most likely come from Paisley and Arbroath with the B team up against Motherwell and Uddingston but both teams have the players capable of winning any match so good luck to both teams from all within the pool league. Full report on the weekend in next weeks review.

RUNNING

League Cup,Sponsored by Oakwood Sauchie:All dates for last 16 and quarter-final ties have now been added to draw sheet and can be viewed at clackspool.net

Winter Medal Aggregate (best 4 from 6) 1ST Mike Stein 160 pts 2nd Norman Richardson 159 pts 3rd Bill Hutchison 155 pts 4th Robert Duncan 154 pts 5th Scott Marshall 153 pts

entral Athletic Club athletes filled over 50 individual slots at the Scottish Athletics Indoor Age Group Championships held at the Kelvin Hall over the weekend of third and fourth March. Pride of place went to the three Gold medallists performances by Peter Muirhead (Under 20 Mens Long Jump) with a best of 6.68 metres; Emily Batchelor (Under 16 Girls Triple Jump) 10.19 metres and Charles Dineen (Under 14 Boys 60 metre Hurdles) 10.15 secs. Silver medals went to fine performances from Robert Burns (Under 14 Boys Shot Put) 10.19 metres; Bevhan Trevis (Under 14 Girls Shot Put) 8.26 metres; Roisin Bonucchi (Under 16 Girls 1500metres) 5min 20.87secs and Chloe McGregor (Under 20 Womens 60 metre Hurdles) 11.65secs. Bronze medals were taken home by Liam Halliday (Under 16 Boys 400 metres) 58.33secs; Emma Boyle (Under 16 Girls Triple Jump) 9.38 metres and Cameron Wilson (Under 16 Boys Pole Vault) 2.40 metres with Cameron also claiming the

Club Record for the event in that age group. While not having the satisfaction of medals many of the athletes recorded personal bests through Euan Lambert, Sarah Pearson, Jessica Stitt, Lydia Simpson, Jodie Currie, Keiran Halliday, Amy Gullen, Anna Thomson, Ross McCorgray, Anthony Quinn, Erin Clark, Jennifer Walls, Keiran Potter and Sophie Parsons, with all the athletes gaining valuable experience of Championship competition.

weecounty sport

Tuesday 6.3.12

RUGBY

Hillfoots enjoy winning ways Hillfoots RFC 31

Gordonians RFC

illfoots welcomed Aberdeen based, Gordonians on Saturday in their first home game since November. With the league drawing to a close, ‘Foots were looking to keep a tight chase on the top of the league. Saturday’s game was sponsored by The Weir Group. Gordonians are a fast paced side with a powerful forwards unit and would put up a good fight throughout. The game was quick paced from the start and Hillfoots dominated almost immediately, the backs were running fluent lines and syncing well. A brilliant break from debutant, Jamie Murchie, leads to an early try from Robbie Hogg, converted by Andrew Hamilton to give Hillfoots the upper hand. The home-side’s forwards gained momentum after the impressive opening from the backs and drove the opposition up the park to within scoring distance. ‘Foots were awarded a scrum 5 metres out and drove the away pack over the line, however, Gordonians scrum-half fouled professionally to prevent the score, giving Hillfoots a penalty advantage, which was quickly taken by Iain Nicolson who dropped over

the line for the 2nd try of the day. Hamilton slotted the extras for a 14 point lead with half-time approaching. The visitors picked their game up and gave a good attack at the Hillfoots line, but as in previous games, ‘Foots stood strong and allowed nothing across their line. Hillfoots defence was a bit too keen and by rushing up found themselves in an offside position, giving the opposition and chance to kick for 3 points, which they converted. Taking the game in 14-3 at half-time. Although ‘Foots lead comfortably in the first half, the coaches thought they had a lot more to give and let them know in the half-time talk. This seemed to be what Hillfoots needed to hit that next gear and they came flying out the blocks in the second period. Blistering runs from all the backs and forwards covering every inch of ground soon saw the locals deep in the visitors half. Talisman prop Sandy Penman showed great skill with a winding, weaving run, fending off at least three players to score just outside the posts. Gregor Manson was now on the park and slotted the conversion to take Hillfoots to 21 points. The game

wasn’t over there and with forwards displaying prowess, a scrum was driven clear over the Gordonians line for Captain Gavin Spowage to drop on top of for the bonus point try, unfortunately Hamilton couldn’t reach with the kick from out wide. With the game all but over Hillfoots went on a last ditch attack and impressive handling skills from Murchie and a good line on the outside of his opposite wing put Hamilton in clear for the 5th try of the day. Not long after the restart the ref blew for full-time and Hillfoots took a step closer to catching the league title. Well done to Jamie Murchie, who put in an excellent performance on the wing in his first game and earned a well deserved player’s Man of the Match. A second man of the match was given by the day’s sponsors and it went to open-side flanker, Craig Scott. Well done! An all round excellent performance gave ‘Foots a massive boost ahead of the season’s biggest game this coming Saturday. They take on league leaders Aberdeenshire at Tillicoultry. We hope for a big turnout and massive support as the players thrive on the sideline support. Kick will be 3pm.

Alloa RFC 7 St Andrews University RFC 60

lloa entertained one of the best sides to have visited Earlsfield in a number of years and as the scoreline suggests, this was a rather one sided affair. The students from St Andrews ran in 9 tries for an easy away victory, which keeps them within 2 points of league leaders, Grangemouth. Alloa have competed well with the sides above them in the league this season and a narrow 15-3 away defeat last November at St Andrews meant that they could be forgiven for approaching this match with a level of optimism. However, this was a very different side to the one that they last faced and the visitors DIV 1 - RESULTS Sat 3rd March 2012 Orkney 24 : 3 HIG Highland Aberdeen Uni 37 : 20 Glenrothes Mackie Acad FP 14 : 3 Caithness Strathmore 6 : 29 Aberdeenshire Hillfoots 31 : 3 Gordonians

DIV 1 - FIXTURES Saturday, 10 March 2012

were soon 3 scores up, in reply to a solitary home side interception try before the break. The Alloa side battled hard during the second period but 6 unanswered tries followed as they struggled to cope with the pace, strength and running angles of the visitors who at times were simply unplayable. With only 2 matches remaining in the league, Alloa must learn from this defeat and get back to winning ways as soon as possible. The next scheduled league match is a home tie against Blairgowrie on 17th March, but a friendly has been arranged for this Saturday at Bannockburn prior to the International matches. DIV 2 - FIXTURES Saturday, 10 March 2012

DIV 2 - RESULTS Sat 3rd March 2012 Kinross 10 : 8 Carnoustie HSFP Blairgowrie RFC 0 : 35 Harris Acad FP Alloa 7 : 60 St. Andrews Uni Fife South 24 : 22 Stirling Uni Madras 22 : 60 Grangemouth

Orkney : Glenrothes Strathmore : Highland Gordonians : Caithness Hillfoots : Aberdeenshire

Blairgowrie RFC : Grangemouth Harris Acad FP : St. Andrews Uni

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 Team ABERDEENSHIRE HILLFOOTS RFC ORKNEY MACKIE ACADEMY FP HIGHLAND RFC CAITHNESS RFC STRATHMORE RFC GLENROTHES GORDONIANS RFC ABERDEEN UNIVERSITY RFC

P 16 16 15 17 16 16 15 16 15 16

W D L

14 12 9 9 9 7 5 3 3 3

0 1 0 0 0 2 3 2 1 1

2 3 6 8 7 7 7 11 11 12

F:A 416:167 359:211 332:315 337:359 284:276 262:257 207:251 238:414 274:375 321:405

Diff.

FOOTS., 2nd XV HAVE TOUGH BATTLE TO WIN AT GLENROTHES

ravelling to Glenrothes Foots., came up against a big experienced street wise team and had to dig deep to steal a win. Once again Foots., travelled with a much changed team with no less than 9 changes which doesn’t lead to the most cohesive of play. Once again Foots., were fortunate to be able to welcome a new player to senior rugby in Ben Harrison who slotted into centre very well. Foots., started off at a fast pace and an early Glens., early attack was stifled with Paul Bowyer and then Graham Cree putting in heavy tackles. Although playing well Foots., found difficulty in making progress due to a continuous stream of penalties. Foots., did manage one scintillating passage of play after about 10 mins., when a scrum ball was quickly slipped by Euan Jamieson to Mark Johnston who in turn fed Paul Bowyer, Paul ’stepped’ his man and gave to Jack Wilson who entered the line at pace from fullback, Jack managed to feed Ben Harrison who looped Alex Cameron beautifully to go close but although the ball was recycled quickly Glens deliberately knocked on to deny Foots. From the scrum Paul Bowyer put in a good cross field chip which allowed Alex Cameron to outstrip the opposition and touch down for an excellent try which was converted by Paul Bowyer. Foots., next score was a beauty, Ian Kelley and the front row took a ball against the head and the ball was transferred speedily by Euan Jamieson, Paul Bowyer, Kenneth McVey and Ben Harrison who put Davy Dempster through and Davy duly ran in for a try again converted by Paul Bowyer.

Just before half time Glens., managed to assert a bit of pressure forcing another penalty close in which they duly kicked. Half time Glens., 3 - Foots., 14 The second half was a dour battle with the big , streetwise Glens., forwards , ( assisted by numerous penalties ), stifled any rugby Foots., tried to play and it wasn’t long before they ran in a try when their big No 10 rumbled over for a try which they were unable to convert. Glens., suddenly found a supply of useful subs., and continued to batter away at the Foots., line but Foots., tackled heroically to a man to deny them. The Foots., line was finally breached about 10 mins., later when shear weight carried them over this time converted. Glens began to tire and Foots., began a series of attacks but had to wait until a few minutes before the final whistle to go in front when Paul Bowyer put in a fine cross kick which Alex Cameron took at full pace and ran in almost under the posts, again converted by Paul Bowyer. Final score Glens., 15 - Foots., 21 Make no mistake this was a very good win with many heroic performances. The whole team are to be congratulated for the way they battled throughout, but special mention goes to Alex Cameron for his two tries and to Derek Paterson, who because we were short, played his first game at prop at senior level and made such a good fist of it despite a heavy , experienced opposition. This week the 2nds., are having an inaugural get together in the clubhouse so thereby sponsoring the 1st XV . Please let Davy Stirrat know if you are attending. Meal approximately £10, drink free.

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 MIDLANDS P

249 11 67 148 7 57 17 8 44 -22 7 43 8 5 37 5 3 31 -44 3 29 -176 6 22 -101 8 18 -84 8 17

Team GRANGEMOUTH STAGS RFC ANDREWS UNIVERSITY MADRAS RUGBY HARRIS ACADEMY FPRFC STIRLING UNIVERSITY RFC ALLOA KINROSS BLAIRGOWRIE RFC FIFE SOUTHERN CARNOUSTIE HSFP

P 15 15 17 16 17 16 16 15 17 16

W D L

15 14 12 11 7 5 4 4 4 3

0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0

0 1 5 4 10 10 12 11 13 13

F:A 568:88 572:177 441:358 357:291 342:382 196:265 188:453 172:325 146:384 173:432

Diff.

480 10 70 395 12 68 83 10 54 66 8 54 -40 8 36 -69 4 26 -265 5 21 -153 3 19 -238 3 19 -259 4 16

sport

Tuesday 6.3.12

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Sauchie outclass Armadale in entertaining cup tie Armadale Thistle

Sauchie Juniors 3

By Mark Wallace

t was East of Scotland cup business on saturday for Sauchie Juniors. They travelled to Volunteers Park to meet Armadale Thistle for the fourth time this season, with Sauchie having a good record of two wins and a draw against the Dale. Unlike previous weeks, Manager, Fraser Duncan made very few changes, with Ally Burns and Steven Hutchison replacing Adam Bonnar and Brian Morgan respectively The pitch looked in good condition and from the start Sauchie made their intentions very clear as they attacked the Armadale team. Although Armadale Thistle had the first chance of the match with Halliwell holding a shot from Robbie Feeney, it was Sauchie who came closest with firstly with a header from Steven Bell who met a Gary Carroll cross, then a free kick from Gary Carroll which hit the bar and then a forty yards shot from Steven Hutchison which tested Jack Swinburne, in the Armadale goals. After ten minutes and against the run of play, Armadale Thistle took the lead. From a corner, Valentine’s cross was met by Scott Brown, who headed the ball onto Martin Jack and from six yards out he blasted the ball past the helpless Halliwell. Sauchie continued to create chances and spent the majority of the first half in the Armdale part of the pitch. Steven Hutchison had a good game, especially in the first half where he was winning every ball in the midfield. Gary Carroll upfront

continued to show the quality that has been consistent over the last few games. Bell had two chances when Carroll played a clever ball into space, which Bell met and he hit the side net. It was Steven Bell who then scored after heading a cross from Feaks who whipped the ball into the goal area. It had only been a matter of time before Sauchie got the equaliser due to their continued pressure. On the twenty third minute after some entertaining interplay between Cummings and Comrie, Cummings resulting attempt just went past the post. Purdie showed some quality when he brought the ball down from a Feaks pass and after beating the defender, he crossed for Burns who failed to hit the target. On the twenty seventh minute, Sauchie took a deserved lead, when a pass to Burns from Bell, put him into a good position and he obliged with a goal. Sauchie continued to have further chances that unfortunately for them came to nothing and Armadale’s attempts at the Sauchie goals, were very limited. Half time ended with Sauchie heading into the dressing room one goal ahead, however hoping that they would not regret their missed chances, which could have finished the match. The second half started with Mackison replacing Gary Carroll, who had been booked in the first half. Sauchie started with the first chance falling to Bell, who beat the off side

trap and was tackled as he prepared to shoot. With the advantage of the wind, Armadale started to come more into the match and created more chances for their selves. The strong defending from Feaks, Tully and King ensured that Armadale were restricted to their options when attacking the Sauchie defence. George Bonnar did win a header in the Sauchie box, however his header went into the arms of Halliwell. Halliwell was later called into action, when he was alert to a shot from Scott Brown and tipped the ball over his bar. Sauchie made two further replacements bringing on Adam Bonnar and Brian Morgan for Ally Burns and Darren Cummings. With six minutes left, Adam Bonnar collected the ball just inside his half and ran at the Armadale defence, beating two defenders before releasing his shot, in the Armadale box, which Swinburne held, for the first time in the match. Two minutes later, the game was put to bed, when Morgan won the ball then slipped it through to Bell. He ran onto the ball and his shot was blocked by Swinburne, with the ball bouncing into the air and Adam Bonnar was the quickest to react and headed into an empty net. Sauchie saw out the remainder of the match with some good interplay allowing Armadale no opportunity of hitting back. The match ended three one to Sauchie Juniors who thoroughly deserved their victory, creating many goal scoring opportunities. Sauchie return to League duty this week end travelling to close rivals, Oakley United. Although they were the early pace setters in the league, Oakley United have failed to win their last four matches, however their manager, Stevie Kay will have his squad prepared for the visit of Sauchie Juniors. Fraser Duncan will be keen to continue their strong run in the ACA Sports Premier League, as they slipped to second place, although they do have games in hand over their competitors. The kick is 2.30 at Blairwood Park, Oakley.

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Tuesday 6.3.12 29

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Managers Comments

ast Saturday we were in the East of Scotland cup. This was a tough draw with an away tie to Armadale Juniors, which was always going to be a very difficult match. We approached the game with a very attacking minded formation and a first for us as we had four upfront and really went for it and tried to put pressure on Armadale from the very start. We went behind against the run of play, from my view and this seemed to spur us on to create some very good chances and the equaliser was not long in coming. Good play from Gary Carroll and Darren Cummings going forward created problems as we were switching play early and catching them out. Greame King, Jon Tully and Kenny Feaks were defending well especially with our offensive style. Some good handling from Bryn Halliwell and early kick outs were a benefit for us with Steven Bell and Ally Burns pushing hard upfront. Two first half goals from these two had us 2-1 up at the break. At half time we needed to make changes to our style and brought on Scott Mackison for Gary Carroll and went to a four at the back, this helped us defend our lead more comfortably and we still had an attacking edge with Steven Hutchison winning everything in midfield and Chris Purdie and Alan Comrie giving us the creative spark. Second half was different from the first with Armadale coming at us a bit more but only really created two chances with Bryn cleaning up in goals for us, with 15 minutes to go we made substitutions with Adam Bonar and Brian Morgan coming on for fresh legs. With some hard work from Steven Bell he created a chance for himself and it was saved by the keeper and Adam Bonar managed to leap and header home the rebound giving us a 3-1 lead with ten minutes to go. We managed to keep the ball really well for the last ten with Armadale

looking spent. A good cup tie and well done to Armadale for giving us a tough task. Well done to Sauchie and we are now in the last 16 of the East of Scotland Cup. Some results went our way at the weekend with Oakley again dropping points away to Penicuik, this leaves us sitting second in the table joint on points with Penicuik but with four games in hand. We travel to Oakley Juniors this weekend, which could be classed as our local rivals and with them needing to take point off us to stay in touch with the top three they will be giving it their all. We need to give everything this weekend with our next two fixtures being Oakley and Penicuik away, and we have the chance to put a good distance between us. This will in my view, be two extremely tough games and if we can pick up points from these fixtures we will be doing well but as usual we will go for it and try to get maximum points leaving us in a very good position. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to see ourselves and Alloa Athletic both doing well in our respective leagues and good luck to Paul and his players for the run in and lets hope at the end of the season that both teams will be going into higher divisions.

Fraser Duncan

Junior Football League Home Away TEAM Penicuik Athletic Sauchie Juniors Tayport Oakley United Glenrothes Broxburn Athletic Ballingry Rovers Newtongrange Star Broughty Athletic Downfield Armadale Thistle Arniston Rangers

P W D L F A 13 5 0 2 17 8 10 5 0 0 11 4 14 2 3 2 7 5 12 3 2 1 17 9 14 3 3 1 14 11 14 3 2 2 15 9 14 3 2 2 16 13 1 5 2 2 3 10 8 15 0 3 5 8 20 15 2 1 4 11 20 14 2 4 2 11 9 12 1 1 3 4 11

W D L F A 2 2 2 9 8 2 2 1 10 7 4 2 1 9 3 3 2 1 14 9 3 1 3 15 17 2 2 3 8 13 2 2 3 7 14 2 3 3 19 16 4 1 2 9 11 2 2 4 13 14 0 2 4 6 12 1 2 4 8 17

GD Pts 10 23 10 23 8 23 13 22 1 22 1 19 -4 19 5 17 -14 16 -10 15 -4 12 -16 9

Tuesday 6.3.12

FOOTBALL

Managers Comments ... Annan Athletic Harry Cairney; “I am very disappointed we didn’t take anything from the game as I thought we deserved a point. “We played well in the first half but stood off them in the second. “We’re lacking a bit of confidence just now and their keeper had a string of fine saves, the save from David Cox was fantastic.”

Alloa Manager: Paul Hartley “The players were absolutely brilliant out there, it was really a magnificent team performance. “Our keeper Scott Bain was outstanding as he has been all season, that one save From David Cox was world class for a young keeper who is improving all the time. “He’s been doing it all season, it looked a goal all the way but I should expect that from Scott I know his qualities. “It keeps us out in front of the pack going into the final quarter.”

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Tuesday 6.3.12

FOOTBALL

IRN BRU DIV 3 - RESULTS TUESDAY 28TH FEB 2012 BERWICK 0

PETERHEAD 1 M.BAVIDGE 83

ELGIN 1 CLYDE 1 B.WILSON 89 J.POLLOCK 37 MONTROSE 0 QUEENS PARK 1 J.LONGWORTH 89 SATURDAY 3rd MARCH Annan Athletic 1 Alloa Athletic 2 S O’Connor (33) D Young (7) S May (77) Clyde 1

Montrose 2 M Boyle (64)

East Stirlingshire 6 Peterhead 3 M Hunter (10) G Sharp (1) R Devlin (23) C MacDonald (50) A Lurinsky (pen 33) R McBain (57) S Maxwell (38) A Stirling (41, 90) Elgin City 1 Queen’s Park 1 D Niven (9) M Daly (37) Stranraer 1 Berwick Rangers 3 S McColm (45) S Noble (27) F McLaren (68) J Ferguson (80)

IRN BRU DIV 3 - Fixtures: TUESDAY 6TH MAR 2012 Elgin v Annan Athletic SATURDAY 10TH MAR 2012 Alloa v East Stirling Annan Athletic v Stranraer Elgin v Peterhead Montrose v Berwick

Irn Bru Division 3: League Table Alloa Athletic Queen’s Park Stranraer Elgin City Annan Athletic Berwick Rangers Peterhead Clyde Montrose East Stirlingshire

Pld W 27 9 27 7 27 8 26 9 26 7 27 3 27 5 27 4 27 4 27 4

D 3 4 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 3

L 1 2 4 1 3 6 4 7 7 7

W 8 7 5 3 4 5 4 2 3 1

D 3 2 5 4 3 5 1 5 2 2

L GD Pts 3 16 57 5 18 48 3 20 46 6 10 43 5 6 40 4 -3 33 9 -11 32 6 -4 26 9 -21 25 10 -31 20

weecounty sport Mixed fortunes for county’s rugby teams

Annan 1 Alloa 2

Page 27

Wasps battle for win at Annan

By Sports Reporter

lloa went into the game against Annan looking for their first win at Galabank. Manager Paul Hartley had to shuffle his team this week due to a midweek car crash involving Kevin Cawley, Armand One, Mark Docherty and reserve keeper Craig McDowell. All were suffering as a result of the crash, so Ross McCord was brought into the centre midfield area and Graham Holmes pushed forward, playing just off loan striker Steve May. Both Craig Campbell and Max Wright were drafted to the bench for the Wasps. It was going to be a hard game for the Division 3 leaders with the park being very uneven in places and a strong wind making entertaining football unlikely. The wasps got off to a flyer, captain marvel - Darren Young picked up a loose ball 25 yards out and his sweet strike flew past the helpless Annan keeper Alex Mitchell. It was the Alloa captains second goal in 7 days put the wasps in front with 7 minutes gone. The home side responded well and Alloa full-back Michael Doyle had to

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EASTEND

make a last man tackle to stop David Winters leveling for Annan. The home side had a good spell and could have leveled when target man Sean O’Conner rose to beat the stranded Alloa defenders but Scott Bain turned his net bound header wide. And the Alloa keeper kept his side in front saving well from Scott Gibson. The home side only had an other 2 minutes to wait for the equalizer,

from an in swinging Chris Jardine corner Sean O’Conner rose to head home at the back post. And Annan could have went in front on the half-time whistle when Cox found Gibson 15 yards out but again Bain saved well. H-T Annan 1 Alloa 1 The Galabank side should have taken the lead in the 54th min when Scott Gibson met Aaron Muirhead’s cross at the back post but his shot went wide with the goal at his mercy.

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Annan threatened again when O’Conner’s looping header was well saved by Bain. The visitors were still a danger on the break and in the 70th min the lively Darren Young saw a goal bound shot saved well on the line by Annan defender Gibson. The league leaders restored their advantage in the 77 min when on loan striker Steve May was on hard to slot home after a Steve Masterton corner had come back off the post.

Annan piled on the pressure and only a point blank save from hero keeper Bain kept this side in front, Annan wingers David Cox shot seemed net bound but somehow Bain turned the shot wide. Alloa held on well maybe not the best display of the season but fought hard to earn a win and send Alloa nine points clear at the top and gain Paul Hartley’s first win at Annan. ATT 672

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