Clyde Life Issue 51 Dec/Jan 2019/2020

Dec/Jan 2019/2020 issue 51

What’S on

our great guiDe for the holiDay

bootS on the Ground walk off that christmas PuD!

Jack & the beanstalk

We’re all Still Game for a panto!

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WE’VE GOT CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP FREE ENTR

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• Indoor Children’s Carnival & Santa’s Grotto • New Inflatable Assault Course • Selection of Decorations, Lights, Trees & More!

• Enormous range of quality gifts, candles and housewares • Licensed 300 Seater Restaurant • Breakfast with Santa

(booking required, visit our website for more info)

Top quality Scottish Grown Xmas Trees now available!

Home delivery available

Call us on: 01475 521 536 or visit: www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk Address: Lunderston Bay, Gourock, PA19 1BBWWW.CLYDELIFE.CO.UK 2 CL51 MASTER.indd 2

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contentS

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TOP NURSERIES CHILLED CHRISTMAS ‘SANTA PAWS’

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FASHION: WINTER STYLE GARDEN: INSIDE & OUT WHAT’S ON: OUR GREAT GUIDE

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chriStmaS panto time!

i

t’s panto time and suddenly I’m six again and the whole glorious tribe has descended on Great Aunt Maggie for Christmas in Paisley. We could oot Broon The Broons with all us excited kids running feral.

Published by: Wyvex Media On the cover: Off Kip on the Clyde

contact info

Best of all was the panto outing; sitting in the dark, then the curtain went up and the stage exploded into colour, light, songs and silliness, watching normally

Photo credit: PFM Pictures

sensible adults roaring out ‘He’s behind you.’ ‘Oh yes it is!’

The Beacon Arts Centre has a brilliant panto, Jack and the Beanstalk, this festive season with a wonderful cast. So get yourself along and recapture and introduce your kids to - the magic that is panto.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us here at Clyde Life.

Sales Executive: Julie Baird jbaird@obantimes.co.uk

Features Editor: Joanne Simms joanne@clydelife.co.uk

Advertising: 07792 066706 • editor@clydelife.co.uk /ClydeLifeMagazine @clydelifemag Website Design: plbwebdesign.co.uk Graphic Design: Kevin McCubbin – Wyvex Media kmccubbin@obantimes.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors, or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Wyvex Media does not officially endorse any advertising material included in this publication. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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all of inverclyde’s 27 schools are now uniceF rights respecting schools and all took part in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the united nations’ convention on the rights of the child, including these wee tots at newark nursery.

nurSerieS are top of the claSS Inverclyde ends the year in triumph with top marks for its early learning

t

he nursery and early learning In the past year six council services in Inverclyde are centres have been inspected: among the best in Scotland, Binnie St. Children’s Centre, says a government report.

Bluebird Family Centre, King’s Inspection reports for the area’s Oak Nursery Class, Larkfield nursery and early learning carried Family Centre, Moorfoot Nursery out during 2019 Class and ‘inverclyde continues Wellpark reveal they are among the best in Centre. to be one of the best Children’s the country.

Two partnership places in the country nurseries were Inverclyde Council’s to bring up a family’ also inspected – education and Enchanted Forest councillor Jim clocherty communities Nursery (Inverkip) committee heard and West College that the report has revealed Scotland Nursery.

Inverclyde is above the Scottish The council’s services were all average for the ‘very good’ rated either good or above across category in inspection reports. the board.

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Inverclyde’s education convener, Councillor Jim Clocherty said: ‘The report shows that following an independent assessment Inverclyde nursery and early learning services are among the best in the country.

‘This will be very welcome news for parents and carers. As a council our commitment is giving our young people the best start in life.

‘This shows how well we are doing in providing nurturing well run nursery and early years’ education in Inverclyde and that our area continues to be one of the best places in the country to bring up a family.’

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04/01/2019 09:36 26/06/2019 10:32:12 13/12/2019 11:44:18

chill out thiS chriStmaS Keep it simple, keep it local and your Yule will be cool

c

an we all just take a step back, please, and take a deep breath. This is Christmas time and it should be fun.

If it isn’t then you aren’t doing it right.

Christmas is a time when you relax and enjoy your home and your family and if not, then you seriously need to reconsider what you are doing and cut out all the pressure.

So here is a quick guide for how to stop getting all hot and bothered.

privately-owned shops and services. These local businesses continue to thrive because they know their customer base and have a well-curated mix of goods that will appeal to their customers.

Instantly lift a huge weight off your shoulders by shopping locally and avoiding long journeys, queues on the motorway and in and out of car parks. You will also avoid big crowds – another stress maker. If you need to return something you are only popping down the road!

shoP locally

take your time

OK, we would say that wouldn’t we? We are your local consumer choice magazine.

That makes us well-placed to tell you we should celebrate Inverclyde’s excellent mix of nationally-known chains and 8

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Shopping locally means more of your time can be spent shopping. This means you can stop for coffee or afternoon tea or lunch and really make a day’s Christmas shopping a memorable event.

keeP it simPle

When they are grown, with kids of their own, your children will remember few of the toys they were bought but they will remember their experiences.

When it comes to present buying remember to buy memories too like going to the panto or cinema or to try a new experience like a trip to a spa for a manicure, a smart haircut, trying a new sport for the first time like riding or sailing lessons. let someone else Do the fooD

Either decide to go out for your Christmas dinner or remember to divide by three: cook in advance, cook on the day and buy in.

We have some fantastic local artisan food and drink producers – they are your secret weapon!

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Santa claus for paws & claws Our pets love a pressie just as much as we do!

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e all know someone who looks like their pet; selection and often have more competitive prices at the serious, portly old uncle who owns a Christmas time. basset hound; the princess cousin looking A young pup and older, less active dog will down her nose like her Siamese cat and the wee kid appreciate a warm coat for our cold, wet winters. brother with braces who used to keep gerbils.

Leggings prevent snow and ice matting on longer And so we buy our pets haired dogs’ legs and mud pressies at Christmas. splatter can contain salt and grit People who don’t have pets which can cause eczema. New getting a bit nosy! don’t get it but we all know that the things for us at Christmas help The human nose has non-human family members love mark the occasion and so do about 5 million olfactory to receive gifts just as much as new collars and leads. receptors; a cat 80 million we do - be it a trip to the groomer, As for pet treats? Come on, be and dogs as many as 300 new furniture, clothes, accessories honest here – you love your pets million. In a dog’s brain or toys. more than certain members of the area interpreting the We like a spa day, and so your family and if that unpleasant, incoming information do our dogs. This is not silly grumpy person is being given is 40 times larger than papering; good grooming is a box of chocs we are going to ours... so don’t leave any essential. A well-groomed, clean, make sure our cat, dog, budgie, food treats under the unmatted coat keeps all kind of rabbit or pony is going to get Christmas tree! minor ailments and problems something they enjoy too! away and so does professional Toys are important as boredom nail clipping for cats, dogs and busters for pets and the best small mammals. designs mimic natural activities.

A new pet bed or bedding for Christmas? It And most important of all it is fun and isn’t that makes sense because the stores widen their what Christmas and Hogmanay are all about?

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the

Style files

by Marilyn Thompson

Welcome to Winter – dressing in style during the Festive Season

T

here’s a lot going on at this time of year - from Christmas shopping trips and catch up lunches with friends to office parties and theatre outings.

Then, there are the numerous family get togethers and of course the big day itself!

Dressing well for each and every festive occasion doesn’t need to be challenging. When it comes to dressing successfully, it really does pay to put quality over quantity, investing in the best quality clothes and accessories possible.

Doing this helps in many ways, and probably the most important but least mentioned, is in the slowing down of the relentless fast fashion market (more on that another time).

Additionally, clothes last for longer and there is the undeniably special feeling that comes with wearing more luxurious items.

Dressing in style over the festive season - what do we really need?

Let’s start with outerwear - a classic, well cut coat in long lasting durable wool is a must have and when teamed with a stylish scarf, leather gloves and low heeled boots, that’s already a winning look suitable for every occasion.

For everyday wear, a few high quality key items are needed. A luxe cashmere sweater layered over a stunning silk blouse, perhaps in a sumptuous jewel colour and finished off with a well fitting pair of jeans.

This kind of outfit will keep you warm and looking the part, while allowing you to dash around in comfort and style.

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Photographs: Joe Browne

A party outfit is probably required - perhaps for your works night out, cocktails, a fancy dinner or maybe even a New Year extravaganza.

Whatever the social occasions filling your calendar, you have the chance here to make a real style statement.

With no better time than Christmas to wear red, why not take the opportunity to dazzle in a glamorous racy red dress. Not feeling quite so adventurous? - you can still make an entrance with the classic LBD (little black dress) either with or without sparkles. For a slightly more relaxed party outfit you could try elegant wide legged trousers and a glamorous silky top, accessorised with a show stopping statement necklace.

At home while decorating the Christmas tree, wrapping presents, preparing mountains of food and so much more, you’re going to need some comfy though still stylish loungewear.

Cashmere lounge wear is the ultimate in sophistication and elegance - think relaxed, belted cable knit cardigans and well cut, easy to wear bottoms.

However, given the eye watering price tags, perhaps more purse friendly (and machine washable) substitutes might be for the best.

Finally, on a cold winter’s night, there’s nothing better than a pair of thick, brushed cotton, tartan PJ’s.

They have got to be the perfect way to cosy up at Christmas and you could maybe even go wild and add a pair of luxurious cashmere socks!

Seasons Greetings. www.clydelife.co.uk

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the

TEEN Style files Time to Party!

Shimmy and shine this Christmastime There’s no better time than at Christmas to wear the glitziest, sparkliest, most glamorous dress ever!

Shine bright this festive season by choosing a shimmering eye catching outfit and prepare to dance the night away in style fashion & beauty notes

Pucker up with a glamorous red lip. There’s no need to spend a lot as you’ll get a decent lipstick for around £7

Accessories Finish off your crowning glory with a fabulous glitzy hair accessory like this pretty jewelled one from Primark £6

gadget Are you on the Naughty or the Nice list?

Help yourself decide with this cool mug.

Wilco £2

do’s & dont’s:

Party Shoes

• Do make sure you can walk in them.

• Do add comfort gel patches.

• Do pop a pair of flats in your bag. www.clydelife.co.uk

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• Don’t have too high a heel.

• Don’t have a huge platform.

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Get into the Christmas spirit with St Columba’s School’s Christmas events, two of which are open to the public!

Christmas Fayre – 7 December, 12-3pm

Join us on the 7th December (12-3pm) for a fantastic Christmas Fayre! Visit Santa in his grotto, buy your Christmas tree and gifts, sample an array festive refreshments and listen to the angelic voices of our Junior School Choir - all under one roof! We’ll also have pipers, charity stalls selling cards and gifts for very worthwhile causes and last but not least, lots of Christmas joy! Entry is free.

A Musical Celebration – 16 December, 7-9pm

Every two years, we host A Musical Celebration, a unique event in the school calendar.

This wonderful musical event is the perfect showcase for St Columba’s many musicians and it is a truly magical way to end the school term. Open to the public, this event is a fabulous way to take some time out from this otherwise frenetic time of year to enjoy choral and orchestral festive favourites. Single tickets can be purchased for £10 and a 14

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family ticket (4 people) is £35.

Please call 01505 872238, email marketing@st-columbas.org or see www.st-columbas.org for booking details.

Some other Christmas events we are taking part in over the coming weeks…

The Outlook Group’s mission is to help combat loneliness. The group provides a space for older members of our community to come together, listen to a speaker or watch a performance and chat over a cup of tea. St Columba’s Mrs Annett is taking along her Drama Club on Thursday 5th December where the children will give a short performance of the work they have been doing in their weekly club. This is a lovely opportunity for the generations to mix – if you are a member of the Outlook Group at the Old Kirk, you’re in for a treat!

On Friday 6th December, St Columba’s will again take part in the Wee Sleep Out. Children in Juniors 4 – 6 will spend the night sleeping in school. Why? To raise funds for Social Bite’s movement

to end homelessness. We wish our children all the very best in their efforts to raise awareness of the plight of many, and those less fortunate than ourselves. This also ties in well with our Reverse Advent Calendar programme. Instead of opening a little cardboard door (and perhaps taking out a chocolate) of a traditional advent calendar, we ask our children to give a little back by donating foodstuffs for local foodbanks.

Finally, every year we are asked to help children in our local area who would not normally receive Christmas gifts. St Columba’s Junior School is supporting, once again this year, Children in Poverty (CiP) Inverclyde. Last year, parents and children showed the true extent of their generosity and we were thrilled to support CiP by providing many gifts for children aged 2 years and up in the Inverclyde area.

St Columba’s School wishes everyone in our local community and beyond a wonderful Christmas and New Year! www.clydelife.co.uk

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Join us for our Christmas events!

Christmas Fayre

Saturday 7 December | St Columba’s School | 12:00pm | Free Entry

A Musical Celebration

Monday 16th December | Greenock Town Hall | 7:00pm Tickets are priced at £10 each (£35 for a family of 4 ticket). Please contact the school or visit our website for booking information. Parents can purchase tickets via ParentPay. st-columbas.org

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To tick someone off your Christmas list.

Simply…

Call 01778 392014 and quote CHRISTMAS GIFT or go online and enter http://bit.ly/30ZdTCc to purchase your gift subscription.

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13/12/2019 11:45:02

Here’s to us this Hogmanay!

H

ogmanay is the big one; historically Christmas Day played second fiddle to New ‘I remember my dad used to open the Year celebrations in Scotland. window at Hogmanay and hearing all Many people forget that the horns down on the river, a great Christmas Day did not become cacophony, like an orchestra piece, a public holiday in Scotland until 1958. engineered on the Clyde,’ New Year’s Eve is when David Hayman, actor, former apprentice engineer, Scotland shows the world Photo: Brian Anderson/​ who brought us the BBC television series Clydebuilt. how to throw a party, whether Shutterstock you are all dressed up in your finery, wrapped up warm for a street event or and also black to show the latest generation, celebrating at If your Hogmanay is bun. along with your memories. home.

The ‘bun’ is A year is a long time when There is always being spent at home, spiced, dried fruit you are wee so why not get something very your younger children to make why not get into the mix wrapped in special about pastry and made a ‘time capsule’ to open next ‘the bells’ when ‘auld lang syne’ and in a loaf tin or Hogmanay? Put in drawings, midnight chimes almost a sweetie wrapper, small toy, a search out old family shape, and traditionally like an enormous photo of them now or anything all the ships’ photos to show the mince pie but with that captures their imagination. horns and sirens higher ratio This is especially good for latest generation. aoffar sounded on the fruit to pastry. It pre-schoolers and early primary Clyde. should be made classes. They will forget soon Scotland gave in advance to ‘mature’. and by next year it will be a the world THE song to celebrate surprise. the New Year. Auld Lang Syne, is If they are bigger, get them Start your own about longstanding friendships to write letters to ‘older me’ to Hogmanay tradition and memories. open in five or 10 years’ time or If your Hogmanay is being We also have culinary on their 18th birthdays. spent at home, why not get into traditions in the west of Scotland the ‘auld lang syne’ and search of a butcher shop-bought steak out all your old family photos pie for New Year’s Day dinner 18

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Shake it off!

Greenock Esplanade in winter is a glorious place to take a stroll Photo: James McDowall/​Shutterstock

Are you regretting over indulging?

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If we get a snowfall dig out those sledges and ou had one too many mince pies and went a bit head for the nearest hill! too heavy on the turkey and trimmings and now you are paying for it.

Remember: Feeling a little bloated and jaded are we? Well Dress in layers – you will be surprise how quickly there is only one thing to do - go outside and shake you will warm up but also how quickly you will cool it off. down if you stop to chat or take a Wrap yourself up warm, get those A walk on a cold, crisp, photo. wellies or hiking boots on and get The right footwear – is it a day for bright day in a urban out there! hiking boots, wellies or shoes with a setting can be really You could try Windy Hill in the good grip on the soles.

Muirsheild Country Park or Cornalees magical Can you be seen – if it will be nature trail for easy, shorter walks; or getting dark before you reach home Greenock cut for something a little longer. remember to take reflective strips or a pocket torch.

What about Locherwood and Lady Muir Dogs appreciate a coat and reflective strip on Woodland for something a little bit more strenuous? the coat or collar and lead is a great idea.

A walk on a cold, crisp, bright day in a urban setting can be really magical, Greenock Esplande is a classic choice. Perhaps shopping off for coffee or hot chocolate somewhere along the route – If you don’t want to leave home you can remember that this is supposed to be an antidote to catch up on winter jobs in the garden – too much food, so go easy on the cake. see Keiran’s advice on page 24 You could get your bikes out, especially if you get a new one for Christmas!

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Recipe

Sticky sweet chilli salmon kebabs Ingredients

2 Skinless salmon fillets, cut into 3cm chunks Peppers/Onions red or normal, cherry toms 2 tbsp soy sauce Lime juice 2tbsp sweet chilli sauce Garlic crushed ½ tsp runny honey White sesame seeds Thread the salmon chunks onto two or three metal/wooden skewers if using wooden skewers www.clydelife.co.uk

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soak in cold water first, alternating them with chunks of cut peppers and onion Place the skewers on a baking tray.

Mix the soy sauce, lime juice, sweet chilli, garlic and honey to make the marinade and pour over the skewers. Turn the skewers in the marinade several times to make sure the salmon is evenly coated.

Leave to marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour keep turning the skewers. Heat the griddle pan or the grill to a high heat, add the skewers and cook for 15 minutes, turning frequently.

Prepare the green salad if having it as a starter or you could use rice and have it as a main course cook rice to packet instructions. Once the salmon is cooked it should be nicely brown and glazed, but not falling apart.

Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the skewers and serve immediately.

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winter gardening

inside & out T

he run up to Christmas and the New Year is a quiet time in the garden.

That is just as well, given how the weather has been over October and November.

As much as I enjoy the festive season, the winter solstice is always noted in my diary on December 22 as it represents the darkest the day of the winter and, therefore; the days will slowly begin to get longer after the solstice.

It is of little importance, I grant you, but is a psychological milestone for someone who craves the long evenings of summer.

If you feel the need to do something in the garden, or just to escape the house on a nicer day, there are always odd jobs to catch up on.

Make sure all debris from storms and high winds has been removed from lawns, beds and paths.

Gutters are always an issue if you have surrounding trees. I am not a fan of ladders and if that applies to you, I recommend getting prices for someone to come in and do it for you.

There are plenty of commercial gardeners who are happy to perform odd jobs at this time of year and will supply a quotation to do the gutters and roofs for you. I always recommend agreeing costs and details up front.

Written quotes and copies of their liability insurance are the best way to go. Insurance is often overlooked when hiring workmen, but really is a must for anyone working at your home.

You can still plant deciduous trees and shrubs during December and good garden centres like Cardwell will still have plants available. Deciduous plants only simply because they are more or less dormant just now.

If you have Acers (Japanese Maple) in your garden, then you will have enjoyed the vibrant display they inevitably put on every autumn.

Any trimming or pruning of Acers should be done during December, thus avoiding the pruned limbs from ‘bleeding’ too much.

Well established hardy perennials 24

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should be fine during the worst of the winter weather, although care should be taken in the event of snow or prolonged periods of frost.

Less hardy or newly planted young plants should be offered protection in the form of frost protection fleece. Frost protection should be wrapped around the entire plant as best as you can manage.

If you wrap the plant 3-4 times this will create air pockets between the layers that act as insulation.

String, or even elastic bands, can be used to hold it in place.

When there is a milder period you should remove the fleece to allow any condensation to be released and not promote fungal or bacterial growth. Fleece should not be left on for long periods without the plant being aired.

It is not just plants in the ground that are affected by frost, tubs and baskets can be damaged, as well. Containers can be placed on pot feet to lift them off the ground, reducing the chance of the soil itself freezing.

Winter hanging baskets can be wrapped or taken down and stored during prolonged frost, but, assuming you have winter bedding in the baskets, they should recover. Winter baskets and tubs do not require as much watering as summer plants and watering them prior to frost will cause more damage than them being under watered.

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Away from the garden your houseplants will require less watering over winter, but they are still a great addition to any room. Basic requirements for most houseplants are some daylight and a consistent temperature. Avoid placing houseplants near outside doors and radiators.

Bathrooms are a nightmare for houseplants!

It is something our horticulturists at Cardwell are frequently asked and the simple answer is most houseplants are not suited to the changing environments of a bathroom.

The best solution is to have three to four plants that you like and rotate them from the bathroom to other rooms in the house every couple of weeks.

This gives each plant time to recover before being returned to the bathroom.

Houseplants also make great gifts at this time of year.

Of course, the usual Poinsettia, Cyclamen and Christmas Cactus are the most popular, but there are plenty of others if you fancy something a bit different.

At Cardwell, we sell a lot of planted bowls for Christmas and many of them will have prepared Hyacinths or Amaryllis to give both colour and fragrance.

Finally, please take a moment to remember our feathered friends in the garden.

It has been a bumper autumn for berries on trees, so the bird population has had a good start to winter, but that food source will soon dry up.

Prolonged cold spells and snow are when the birds really need our assistance. Bird foods should

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have a high fat content, like peanuts and suet balls.

Seeds are also a good part of their diet. Bird bath water should be replaced every week or so and any ice that forms on top needs to be broken up.

May I take this opportunity to wish every one of you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year, from everyone at Cardwell Garden Centre.

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a selection of events at

finlaystone estate december

Santa’s Grotto from Sunday 1st December, Saturday 7th Sunday 8th, Saturday 14th Sunday 15th, Saturday 21st Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd from 10.30 till 4pm Must be booked in advance, phone 01475 540505.

January

Sunday 5th Winter Walk 1 – 3pm Blow of last years cobwebs with a Ranger led walk through the forest. Warm clothes and boots required.

Sunday 12th Winter Wonderland Art 1 – 3pm Join the Rangers and gather woodland materials to make your artistic creation.

Sunday 19th Winter Scavenger Hunt 1 – 3pm Winter is wonderful Come and find its treasures with our Rangers.

Sunday 26th Winter Walk 1 – 3pm Get wrapped up and join the Rangers on a brisk winter walk.

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december - january

november / december

THE MCDOUGALLS CHRISTMAS PARTY The Albany Theatre, Greenock, PA15 1YX Sunday 1st December 2019 Join Max, Auntie Aggie and Morag the Rabbit as they get ready for the biggest and best party of the year - and you’re invited too! There will be games, songs, dances and lots of festive fun.

Inverclyde’s Christmas Lights 2019 The dates are set for Santa to visit Inverclyde and which on all the lights. Come along to your local event and join the fun.

Greenock, Cathcart Square on Thursday 28th November from 5.30pm Christmas is coming Gourock, Kempock Gardens on Friday 29th November from 6pm Port Glasgow, Library on Wednesday 4th December from 6pm Quarriers, Main Street on Friday 6th December at 4pm Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre on Friday 6th December from 6pm Inverkip, Community Hub on Friday 6th December from 5.30pm Wemyss Bay, Community Centre on Friday 6th December from 6.30pm Saturday 7th December Branchton Community Centre, 78 Branchton Rd, Greenock From Whatsonrenfrewshire.co.uk: Jingle mess, jingle mess, jingle all the way! Don your Christmas jumpers and join the best festive party of the season at Messy Play Greenock in Branchton Community Centre!

Thursday, 12 December 2019 from 10:30-11:30 Fun World Leisure, Fort Matilda Industrial Estate, Eldon St, Greenock Join for a very special festive session designed for the tiniest artists aged 3 to 6 months! My First Christmas ARTventure aims to give you and your baby a gentle introduction to art with music, sensory and creative play.

january

JIVE TALKING BEEGEES The Albany Theatre, Greenock, PA15 1YX Fri 24th January 2020 The original and best Beegees tribute band are back on tour! Prepare to be amazed as the timeless music of The Beegees is brought back to life with stunning authenticity and heartfelt sincerity www.clydelife.co.uk

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december

Christmas with Inverclyde Chamber Open to All (Members & Non-Members) Thursday 5th December – 5pm til late – Café Continental, Gourock ICC invites you and your business to join us to celebrate your business Christmas night out.

Take the hassle and time away from having to arrange something for your business and let us do this for you. 2 Courses: £20 for members / £25 for non-members and 3 Courses: £25 for members / £30 for non-members. Email seo@ inverclydechamber.co.uk to book your space now. Find out more here.

A Look into…Blairs Windows and Doors Thursday 12th December 2019 – 8am-10am – Blairs Windows, Baker St, Greenock Come and join us as we take a look into the local Inverclyde manufacturing firm Blairs Windows and Doors who have been established in the area for over 100 years. There will be a chance to tour the factory floor and hear from Operations Director Joe Boyd. Tickets are £5 for non-members and free to members. Get your tickets on Eventbrite now here.

A Look into…Start Up Drinks Lab Thursday 9th January 2019 – 8am-10am – Start-Up Drinks Lab, Kelburn Business Park, Port Glasgow Come and join us as we take a look into The Start Up Drinks Lab (SUDL), a mould-breaking business that launched in June 2018. SUDL are small batch bottling facility producing craft sodas, mixers, RTDs, beers and ciders for brands all around the UK. Come and hear from Co-founders Craig Strachan and Hannah Fisher and network with likeminded businesses. Tickets are £5 for non-members and free to members and will be available soon on Eventbrite.

These are all listed on the events section of our website where you can lift photos if need be: https://inverclydechamber.co.uk/events/

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CLASSES | GROUPS | AND LOCAL CLUBS Clyde Life publishes details of classes, groups and clubs located within the magazine distribution area. if you are looking for new members or want to publicise an event please let us know.

Health & Wellbeing Classes Class

Time

Location

Day

Teacher/Instructor Contact Details

Yogabellies Children’s Yoga 3-12yrs

Yoga & Meditation

01475 745552/744404 www.enterprisechildcare.co.uk admin@enterprisechildcare.co.uk 7pm-8.30pm

Boglestone CC

Chair Yoga by appointment only please phone.

Yoga

2.00pm-3.30pm

Westburn Church

Mon

Jacci Stoyle

Wed

Jacci Stoyle

07790 262124 07790 262124

Tue

Aileen Hughes

01475 801613 01475 785685

Yoga

7.45pm-9.15pm

Greenock

Tue

Patricia Ralston

Hatha Yoga

7.00pm-8.00pm

Lyle Kirk

Wed

Flora MacKenzie

fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk

Yin Yoga

2.00pm-3.00pm

Inverkip CC

Thu

Flora MacKenzie

fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk

Birsay Yoga

Birsay Yoga

9.15am

Gourock

Tue

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

7.30pm

Gourock

Tue/Thur

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

7.45pm

Inverkip

Wed

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

7.00pm

Skelmorlie

Mon

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

8.45am

Skelmorlie

Sat

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

9.15am

Largs

Thur

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

9.30am

Largs

Sat

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

7.30pm

Largs

Tue

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

Gentle Yoga

7.30pm

Largs

Thu

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

Yoga for Teenagers

6.00pm

Gourock

Tue

Joanna Ritchie

07518 373073

Yoga Mixed Ability Class

10.00am

Gourock - Bath St

Wed

Sheena Arlow

sheenaarlow@gmail.com

6.45pm

Greenock - Nelson St

Wed

Sheena Arlow

sheenaarlow@gmail.com

Scaravelli inspired Yoga

6pm-8.30pm

Branchton CC

Tue

Rachel Harper

01475 638481

Tai Chi

10.30am-11.30am Branchton CC

Fri

David Kendal

01475 638481

Yoga

9.30am-10.30am Kilmacolm

Tue & Fri

Jacqueline Gibson 7851735357

Yoga

10.00am-11.30am Bridge of Weir

Tue & Thu

Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950

7.00pm-8.30pm

Bridger of Weir

Thu

Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950

7.30pm-9.00pm

Langbank

Tue & Thu

Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950

Antenatal Yoga

6.15pm-7.45pm

Bridge of Weir

Thu

Janis Green

General Yoga

8.00pm-9.15pm

Bridge of Weir

Thu

Janis Green

07748 150001

10.00am-11-00am Kilmacolm

Mon

Janis Green

07748 150001

Move it or lose it!

10.30am

Bridge of Weir

Tue

Fiona Bretherton

07811 766672

FABS fitness for the over 60’s more than just a fitness class

2.00pm

Greenock

Tue

Fiona Bretherton

07811 766672

2.30pm

Kilbarchan

Thu

Fiona Bretherton

07811 766672

Physio-led Pilates

6.15pm-7.15pm

Houston

Mon

Kate Black

katiescotts@hotmail.com 07972 474965

7.30pm-8.30pm

Houston

Mon

Kate Black

07748 150001

katiescotts@hotmail.com 07972 474965

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To b

Ple

S

Dance Classes Elite Academy of Dance Ballet Silver Swans Ballet (over 50s) 11am-12pm Royal Scottish Country Dance Society 8pm-9:45pm

Greenock Every Day Greenock Tue & Thu Laird Street, Greenock Mon

Joan Pow

www.eliteacademyofdance.co.uk www.silverswansballet.co.uk 07834 553604

Langbank Greenock Golf Club Kilmacolm Gourock

Derrick McPherson Heather Sinclair David Walker Ann-Marie Westwood

Langbankcc1@gmail.com 07801 445102 01505 873883 07971 607453

Camera Clubs Digital Camera Club Greenock Camera Club Kilmacolm Camera Club Inverclyde Camera Club

7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm

2nd & 4th Mon Thur Tue Fri

Other Clubs & Groups Greenock Speakers Club

7:30pm - 10pm

MS Activities Group

11am-1pm

Ardgowan Club, Greenock Thur (Oct-Mar) Alastair MacDonald Club Secretary Greenock Thu Stuart Anderson

01475 638613 aimacdon1@gmail.com 01475 630553

Parkinson’s Inverclyde Support Group 12:30-2:30pm

Greenock

Last Fri of month Trish Maclennan

01475 743679

Fort Matilda Bridge Club

7pm

Tarbet St Gourock

Mon Tue Fri

01475 522181

Inverclyde Sky Watchers

3pm-5pm

Greenock

Mon

Marion

01475 634976

Bridge of Weir

2nd & 4th Thu

Keith

07789 501605

Dave Souza

01475 631654

Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Games Society Inverclyde Ramblers

Ann MacLeod

To be included in the magazine and on the website please send details to the editor@clydelife.co.uk

Please let us know if any of your clubs, classes or groups details have changed!

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm

Clyde Blinds Ltd Are you looking for high quality blinds?

Call into our extensive showroom today!

5 Salmon Street, Greenock, PA15 1TF 01475 728547

Covers Dunoon and surrounding areas and also does caravans!

blindsbygerry.co.uk

aDvertise with us contact Julie baird: 01631 568009 clydelife.co.uk WWW.CLYDELIFE.CO.UK

CL51 MASTER.indd 29

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SlÀinte – We’ll drink to that Classic whisky and gin cocktails to celebrate two of Scotland’s favourite spirits and the original non-alcoholic mix whisky sour

shirley temPle

2 parts whisky 1 part freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 part sugar syrup Half an egg white

You are a Hollywood star, invited for cocktails but you’re only six-years-old; this was invented in her honour.

Add whisky into a shaker Pour in sugar syrup Squeeze lemon and add Separate egg and add and shake Add ice and shake Strain over ice and serve with slice of orange and cherry

gin gimlet

2½ parts gin ½ fresh lime juice ½ sugar syrup

EN S OP AY 7D

CO OF THE VER SC W IN OT HO G LA LE ND

Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake Strain into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice Garnish with a lime wheel

Fill glass with ice, pour over ¼ oz Grenadine Fill with ginger ale Garnish with a maraschino cherry and lemon wedge

sugar syruP

One cup sugar to one of water for simple syrup; rich syrup is two parts sugar.

Heat the water first before adding sugar and once dissolved let the syrup cool.

Don’t waste valuable drinking time, go out and buy a bottle

Safe. Secure. McClure.

Renfrewshire

HIGH QUALITY FIREWOOD LOGS DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR KILN DRIED HARDWOOD LOGS WOOD PELLETS KINDLING • SCOTTISH PEAT

T: 01505 703756

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