277 October 2017 - Gryffe Advertizer

October 2017 No.277 

Distributed to: 

• Bishopton 

• Bridge of Weir 

• Brookfield 

• Elderslie 

• Houston 

• Howwood 

• Kilbarchan 

• Kilmacolm 

• Langbank 

• Lochwinnoch 

• Quarriers 

FOLLOW US 

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Queensferry Crossing by Chloe McGinn 

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your LOCAL community magazine October 2017 No. 277 

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Contents 

local news....................8-13 

legal blog......................8 

optical blog.......................10 

dental blog........................11 

what’s on........................14-23 

finance & tech.................24-31 

financial blog.........................24 

IT blog.........................24 

local history......................28 - 29 

on the road.....................31 

outdoors........................32-37 

pet news.....................38-39 

pet blog............................38 

village news....................40-51 

school news.................52-57 

sport news....................58-63 

sporting blog.....................61 

business classified..............64 

church listings....................65 

sales & wants......................66 

advertizer directory................67 

deadlines dates...................67 

pick up a copy..................67 

t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk

october 2017 

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This Month 

Rona 

You may immediately recognise the front cover photo as the 

new and iconic Queensferry Crossing. My family was lucky 

enough to get tickets for the ‘once in a lifetime’ Open Day to 

walk across the new bridge which gave my daughter, Chloe, the 

chance to take some fantastic photos, one of which adorns the front cover. On 

the day, the weather was beautiful and everyone involved in marshalling and 

security was most helpful, making the whole occasion feel very jolly. Buses took 

us from outside The Gyle in Edinburgh to the south side of the bridge, where we 

had about an hour to walk across to the north side. At each gantry there were 

information boards with details of the bridge construction. Once on the other 

side, we were bussed back to our starting point over the original road bridge, 

giving us a fantastic view of the new bridge. 

Following on from last month, I’m delighted to see that the seagulls are avid 

readers of the magazine and they seem to have gone off to bother some other 

community. I’m all for feeding the birds, but please remember not to leave food 

out in the open for them as this seems to encourage the gulls to visit. 

There’s nothing slower than watching paint dry! Other than sitting in the lengthy 

traffic queues at Deafhillock roundabout. However, I timed it this morning and, 

when I’d just missed a changing of the lights, surprisingly it only took 1min 

40secs before I had a green for go. Maybe I just got lucky. Although, to be 

honest, that short stationary spell still felt like a lifetime. Deafhillock roundabout 

roadworks are still causing a lot of grief for drivers. Our Councillors are taking 

note of our comments and hopefully the Council can apply some pressure to 

the developers to get a move on and get it finished. Meantime, all I can suggest 

is that you keep lobbying your local Councillors to keep them aware of your 

concerns. 

Staying on the theme of disruption, developers/builders are happy to show 

us pretty architectural proposals of landscaped streets and houses, but the 

reality is often upheaval and upset, certainly little or no benefit short-term or 

even long-term for the existing residents. A prime example being the Gladman 

Developments proposal for the fields aside the Knapps Loch in Kilmacolm.We 

have further information on p12, and an article on p43 from the newly formed 

Kilmacolm Greenbelt Alliance who encourage anyone concerned by this and 

any other proposed developments to get in touch with them. 

Gladman Developments seem to specialise in this sort of development and 

are also behind the plans to build in the fields approaching Bridge of Weir from 

Kilmacolm. Although the application has been refused by the Council, Gladman 

has appealed and, following a site visit from the Reporters in August, the 

evidence will now be reviewed and a decision is expected around November. 

Running low? With no local petrol station we now need to make a journey just 

to fill up. The nearest ones are almost all located at supermarkets with the 

likely consequence that a trip to fill up also becomes a shopping trip, thus 

depriving our own local shops of much needed trade. There are suggestions 

of a new supermarket and petrol station on the east side of Bridge of Weir, but 

that would be just as counter-productive for the retail core of the village. How 

about saving the petrol facility that already exists at the former Bull’s Garage 

and integrating this into any new development of that site? Hopefully some 

common sense will prevail when our planners are considering the future. 

Finally, I hope you’re sitting down as this month I am mentioning the ‘C’ word. 

Yes, the season for Christmas Fayres is approaching - we’ve got a few already 

mentioned in the village news. These are great for picking up Christmas 

gifts and catching up with friends, and all for good causes, so 

please support them if you can. 



Has Your Double 

Glazing Steamed Up? 

Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have 

become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues 

with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be 

noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. Why 

not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you 

have any failed double glazing? 

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window 

including the frames and all the hardware, however 

Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving 

solution … Just replace the glass!! 

We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free 

no obligation quote. Once the quote is completed, we will sit 

down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. 

Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which 

Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year 

guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all 

windows and doors. 

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt and he services 

the Wider Gryffe area. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged 

give Peter a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118. 

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Get free, confidential and 

impartial advice now 

Take a look at this list...is there anything on here that you’re worried about right 

now? 

• Money and debt 

• Welfare benefits 

• Housing 

• Food 

• Energy bills 

• Health 

• Legal issues 

• Consumer issues 

Maybe you are in a crisis or emergency situation and you need help urgently? 

There are people here in Renfrewshire who can help, and the 

easiest way to reach them is to phone Advice Renfrewshire. 

Call us now on FREEPHONE 0808 164 2922 

Our advice is local, free, confidential and impartial. 

Jobs 

figures will 

cheer local 

businesses 

Scotland’s unemployment rate has 

fallen to 3.8%, below the UK figure of 

4.3%, according to official statistics 

published last month. 

Stuart Mackinnon, external affairs 

manager for the Federation of Small 

Businesses (FSB) in Scotland said: 

“Low unemployment is great for Scotland and good for firms that serve our 

local communities. While we know that some firms are concerned about skills 

and labour shortages, that shouldn’t detract from what is good news for the 

country. 

“We’d highlight that an increasing number of Scots are self-employed; about 

one in eight of those in work are their own boss. Therefore more government 

policies need to be designed with these people in mind – specifically childcare 

and welfare initiatives.” 



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Langbank from PS Waverley by Iain Stewart 

Want to Make a Difference to 

the Lives of Women and Girls? 

Now that the evenings are getting shorter are you looking for a new interest? 

Bumper family fun day! 

Helping this amazing little guy get some new (much needed) equipment!... 

* BOUNCY CASTLE * FACEPAINTS * TAROT CARDS 

* MICKEY & MINNIE APPEARANCE * STALLS * RAFFLES * FOOD * & MORE... 

Two of our very brave customers Gordon Ohara & George Robertson have 

agreed to be waxed! You can sponsor them in the pub or they have sponsor 

sheets too. 

Staff & Customers will be taking part in a fun run/dash around the village. 

Please come and join us (get the kids involved). Dress up & have fun!! There 

will be sponsorship forms in the pub if you would like to donate or if you want to 

get sponsored yourself. IT WILL BE GREAT LAUGH... 

Legal Blog 

by Isabella McKerrow, Affinity Family Law 

The Grounds For Divorce In Scotland 

Divorce in Scotland is governed by the Divorce (Scotland) 

Act 1976 as amended by the Family Law Scotland Act 2006. There are only 

two grounds of divorce. 

The first ground is “ a recognised gender change of either party to the marriage.” 

This is established by issuing an interim gender recognition certificate under 

the Gender Recognition Act 2004. The second and more common ground is 

the “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage”. Irretrievable breakdown may 

be established if at least one of four specific situations is proved: 

1. The defender’s adultery. 

2. The defender’s unreasonable behaviour. (Such behaviour by the defender 

that the pursuer cannot reasonably be expected to cohabit with them.) 

3. Non cohabitation of the parties for a period of a least one year provided 

the defender consents to the divorce. 

4. Non cohabitation for a period of at least two years. Consent is not 

required. 

It is up to the party raising the divorce proceedings to prove on the balance of 

probabilities that at least one of the four situations exist. 

In terms of adultery, the proceedings must be based on the defenders 

Soroptimist International of Paisley is a group of local women who are working 

together to help change and improve the lives of women and girls locally, 

nationally and internationally. 

Raising awareness of trafficking, practical support for Renfrewshire Women’s 

Aid and homeless women in Glasgow, and fundraising for RAMH are only some 

of the things we are involved in. Over the next few months we will be filling 

Christmas shoeboxes for Blythswood Care, hearing all about the work of food 

banks, learning how to get our voices heard in government and having an 

evening of fundraising and fun at our Quiz Night. 

If you are interested in what we do, we are having an Open Evening on 23 

November in the Glynhill Hotel. Contact us at www.sigbi.org/paisley, complete 

the Contact Us form and one of our members will get in touch with you. 

adultery. It is not possible for the pursuer to raise the divorce proceedings 

averring their own adultery. The adultery must be since the date of marriage. 

If you are separated, but not yet divorced, and start a sexual relationship 

with another person (one act of adultery is sufficient) your spouse would have 

grounds to raise divorce proceedings on the basis of your adultery. 

Divorce can be raised straight away on the basis of adultery or unreasonable 

behaviour. With the other two grounds, you either have to wait one year from 

the date of separation and require the consent of your spouse or wait two 

years from the date of separation, whereby consent is not required. 



Kilmacolm Slimmers reach 

their Walk All Over Cancer 

goal 

Kilmacolm slimmers 

raise £637.86 with a 

combined 6,292,247 

steps! 

A group of slimmers 

from Kilmacolm have 

raised £637.86 for 

Cancer Research UK 

by getting sponsored 

to increase their step 

count. 

The group were taking part in the Walk All Over Cancer with Slimming World 

campaign where slimmers across the UK and Ireland were sponsored to 

hit a self-selected steps target by their friends and families. To honour their 

achievements and raise even more money for the charity, the group held their 

own celebration event at Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch. 

The champion slimmers attend the Kilmacolm Slimming World group run by 

Slimming World Consultant Linda Stewart. As well as raising vital funds for 

charity, the members aimed to raise awareness of the fact that keeping a 

healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing 13 types of cancer. 

Weight loss Consultant Linda Stewart, who runs the Kilmacolm Slimming World 

group each week said: “ 

We had lovely weather conditions for our walk and in true Slimming World-style 

our members and their families were there to support each other. They showed 

just what can be done when we come together – both in terms of achieving 

something amazing and raising money for a great cause too. 

“I’m so proud of all of my members, who set themselves the challenge of 

walking more this August and absolutely smashed it! At Slimming World, we 

help our members find enjoyable ways of getting more active and encourage 

them to increase their activity levels step-by-step, until it becomes part of their 

daily routine. In our group, we all support each other to live a healthier and 

more active lifestyle. It’s amazing to see just how much of a difference their 

weight loss has made. 

“Getting active doesn’t have to be joining the gym or running marathons. It 

can be walking the kids to school, doing the gardening, hitting the dancefloor - 

anything that raises the heart rate a little counts under our Body Magic activity 

programme. All that activity really helped to boost step counts and enables 

members to reach their Walk All Over Cancer goal. 

“I’m sure my members will inspire more people to get active and improve their 

health, while also raising awareness of the links between obesity and cancer. 

The money raised will go towards an amazing cause – one my members feel 

very passionate about – helping to support Cancer Research UK’s life-saving 

research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all cancers.” 

Linwood Farm Pub Quiz in aid 

of St Vincent’s Hospice 

Kind hearted staff at Linwood Farm 

Restaurant have pledged their support 

for local hospice care by hosting a 

number of different fundraising activities 

throughout the year, in aid of St Vincent’s 

Hospice in Howwood. 

Adding to their ongoing fundraising 

efforts, Linwood Farm will now donate 

the £1 entry fee for their pub quiz night 

that takes place ever Tuesday evening at 

9pm. 

Linwood Farm General Manger, Pamela 

McLachlan “We are delighted to have 

this opportunity to get involved in the 

community and to support St Vincent’s 

Hospice. We hope our customers will give generously and help us support this 

deserving charity”. 

Why not help to support St Vincent’s Hospice and have some fun at the same 

time! 

The Linwood Farm Quiz night takes place every Tuesday from 9pm and costs 

only £1 to play which is donated to St Vincent’s Hospice. 

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk 

Mix it Up! 

Get ready for an unforgettable night of 

entertainment as these girls blaze a 

trail through all the huge hits of chartconquering 

X-Factor winners Little Mix 

when they come to Port Glasgow Town 

Hall on Saturday 14 October. 

This high-energy, all singing all dancing 

show is an authentic representation 

of the look, sound and spirit of the 

world’s biggest girl group. The girls 

cover all of Little Mix’s biggest hits 

spanning their career, and with their 

expertly choreographed dance routines, 

costumes and uncanny sound-a-like 

vocals, are sure to thrill fans of all ages. 

The concert, which coincides with Glory 

Days Little Mix Tour is being held to raise money for local charity Ardgowan 

Hospice and tickets include a meet and greet with the girls after the concert. 

Tickets are £15 each* (plus booking fee). * Please note: Under 14s must be 

accompanied by an adult over 18. 

You Dancin’? 

This autumn Ardgowan Hospice will be hosting a St 

Andrews Ceilidh at the Gamble Halls in Gourock, with a 

fabulous might of entertainment coming from the Scottish 

Ceilidh Band calling the dance until late. 

The hall will be filled with the sounds of traditional Ceilidh 

music and revelers are encouraged to come in full Scottish regalia to celebrate 

St Andrew’s Day. Guests will be treated to dinner and a wee dram to get them 

in the dancing mood. 

Alex Mula, Fundraising Officer at Ardgowan Hospice said, “I’m really excited 

we’re holding a Ceilidh in November. I’ve never been to one myself, but will be 

measured up for a kilt to join in the dance.” 

Smith’s in Greenock will be donating 10% of Kilt hire for the Ceilidh from the 

Black Isle, Grey Isle or Hebridean Heather range directly to the hospice to help 

bring the fundraising total to a maximum. 

Tickets to the Ceilidh are £25 each and include a dram, dinner and dancing. To 

book yours, call Alex at the hospice on 01475 558888 or email fundraising@ 

ardhosp.co.uk 

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10 


21st edition of Provost’s 

Community Awards 

Local heroes across Renfrewshire are to be recognised as the Provost’s 

Community Awards open once again for nominations. 

The awards are into their third decade 

and aim to give civic recognition to 

those who work or live in Renfrewshire, 

and are making a difference to their 

community. 

Nominations can be made in six 

categories this year, an increase from 

five in previous years. 

A new Arts and Culture award has been 

created which will seek out the hidden, 

or not so hidden, gems who light up 

Renfrewshire’s cultural scene. 

Five other awards, Community Group, 

Community Volunteer, Sporting 

Achievement, Carers’ Award and 

Employer of the Year, give the opportunity for local people to give recognition to 

their colleagues, friends and family for the work they do in their community. 

Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “This will be my first Community 

Awards in my role as Provost and I can’t wait to see the nominations coming in. 

“Our area is full of inspiring community members who deserve to be recognised 

for the difference they make to the lives of those around them. 

Optical Blog 

by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians 

“There are a number of different categories to nominate in so don’t miss your 

chance and nominate the people or groups who you think deserve to win a 

Community Award.” 

The Community Group award is sponsored by the Piazza Shopping Centre and 

celebrates the organisations in Renfrewshire that have a positive effect on their 

communities. 

Sponsored by Glasgow Airport, the Community Volunteer award recognises those 

who give their time and effort for nothing more than the knowledge that they are 

making a difference to their community. 

Perennial award sponsor Acre Industrial will present the Sporting Achievement 

award to the person, team or group who have represented Renfrewshire to a high 

standard this year in the sporting arena. 

Former Renfrewshire Provost Nancy Allison, who has been a part of each of 

the Community Awards since its inception, donates the Carers Award which 

recognises anyone who cares for a relative, friend or neighbour. 

This year, Employer of the Year is sponsored by UNISON and encourages 

nominations for employers who have provided a positive working environment 

and have gone above and beyond the call of duty for their staff. Anyone who lives 

or works in Renfrewshire can be nominated for an award. Further information can 

be found on www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/provostawards Printed nomination forms 

are available at Council offices and facilities. 

The closing date for nominations is Friday 1 December. 

The winners in each category will be invited to a special ceremony which will be 

held in March 2017. For further enquiries contact: provostawards@renfrewshire. 

gov.uk. 

Presbyopia comes to us all! 

Presbyopia is part of the natural ageing process of our eyes and starts to 

affect most of us in our early forties. The crystalline lens in the middle 

of each eye, responsible for focusing on things close-up, becomes 

progressively less flexible and unable to focus properly. This usually first 

presents as a difficulty in reading small print, holding the print further away 

to focus (“arms aren’t long enough” syndrome) or the need for brighter light 

when reading. 

There is no cure for presbyopia, but there are solutions! Simple reading 

glasses can be prescribed. Care should be taken with over-the-counter 

readers though - the prescription will be the same for each eye, astigmatism 

won’t be corrected and the centre of the lens may not match the eyes 

perfectly. Prescribed glasses are made-to-measure so the frames and 

lenses will be fitted professionally. Bifocals or varifocals can be better 

options if a distance correction is also required. Bifocals have a visible line 

on the lens, separating the distance and near powers. Varifocals are the 

most popular option nowadays due to the fact they have many powers to 

allow focusing at many different distances but with no visible line. Trifocals 

are rarely used - they have 2 lines separating three powers. 

Contact lenses are another popular choice with options available for 

daily, two weekly or monthly disposables. Monovision, where one eye is 

corrected for distance and the other for reading, is another option and 

although it sounds strange it can be surprisingly effective. With all options, 

whether it’s glasses or contact lenses, it may take a few weeks for the brain 

to adapt. 

As always, if you notice any changes in your vision, you should have an eye 

examination to identify the exact cause. 

For further information please contact the practice on 01505 614700. 



Dental Blog 

by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner, 

Kilbarchan Dental Practice 

True or False? 

There is lots of misinformation about oral health so we thought 

it would be good to put the record straight! Here are our top 5 myth-busters: 

1. White teeth are healthier – FALSE 

Teeth vary in shade from person to person and we still find cavities and infections 

whatever the shade. A good oral health regime and regular check-ups are the 

most important factors in maintaining healthy teeth. 

2. Scrubbing your teeth when brushing causes damage to teeth and gums 

– TRUE 

Vigorous over-cleaning and/or applying too much pressure can lead to enamel 

damage, gum recession and tooth sensitivity. Ask your dental hygienist about 

the best teeth-brushing technique or invest in an electric toothbrush with 

pressure sensor and timer. 

3. Over-brushing makes your gums bleed – FALSE 

The truth is that bleeding gums are often a sign that plaque and food particles 

are accumulating along your gum line and the gums have become irritated and 

inflamed. You actually need to brush more thoroughly (take note of 2. above) to 

remove the offending articles if you want the bleeding to stop. We recommend 

the use of inter-dental brushes to get rid of hard-to-reach areas. If the bleeding 

persists go and see your dentist. 

4. Sipping drinks is better for your teeth- FALSE 

“Chugging” or gulping down sugary or acidic drinks is much better for your teeth. 

You will limit the time that your teeth are exposed to a low pH and you are less 

likely to continually coat your teeth in a film of sugar and provide 

a feast for bacteria. We recommend water as the most toothfriendly 

drink. 

5. Chewing gum is good for your teeth - TRUE 

Evidence has shown that incorporating sugar-free gum into 

our busy lifestyles can improve our oral health. Saliva helps 

replace the minerals that the enamel has lost after eating. 

Chewing sugar free gum after eating or drinking helps 

you produce more saliva to significantly speed up the 

recovery process. 

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12 


Save our Greenbelt 

Iconic views may be lost 

At their presentation in the Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm, on Tuesday 19th 

September, land developers, Gladman Scotland, were telling us that their 

proposals would create a green and aesthetically pleasing southern entrance 

to the village. 

Isn’t that what we already enjoy? Does the entrance to the village (above 

photo) require any improving? 

The Knapps loch has featured on a number of websites as one of the most 

iconic and beautiful places to visit. It is indeed one of the most popular 

photo locations that we receive at The Advertizer. The Gladman proposals 

encroach on the right hand side of this iconic view. 

There are a significant number of developments already with planning 

approval in and around the village. Close to one hundred housing plots in 

the pipeline comprising several individual developments and larger projects 

at the foot of Smithy Brae, the former Balrossie School and the extension to 

Leperstone Avenue. Now with the threat of 200 houses being suggested for 

the Quarry Drive site, isn’t this all getting a bit too much? Even without all of 

this, the proposal for the Knapps is still ludicrous! 

And it gets worse. With the map below showing the areas identified by 

prospective developers for further housing, when does a village stop being 

a village? People choose areas such as Kilmacolm for the community, 

the open space, proximity to the country-side, 

peace and tranquillity. In a word, that village 

“feel”. Either we accept that the village 

will eventually become a small town or 

we must establish a boundary which 

defines and protects the village. 

So what can we do about it? A new 

group has been formed, the Kilmacolm 

Greenbelt Alliance, who have written for 

us on p43 this month. If you feel stongly 

about this issue, please get 

in touch with them to register 

your interest. 

Together we are stronger! 

Nicola’s Bike & Hike success 

CONGRATULATIONS to Nicola Hanssen of “ROAR - 

Connections For Life” for a gallant effort completing the 

2017 Arran Bike & Hike, raising money for local mental 

health services. 

Nicola had a reasonably dry Saturday; circumnavigating 

the island from Brodick to Lochranza. Sunday was pretty 

gruelling as Nicola completed the cycle from Lochranza to 

the foot of Goatfell, totalling 56 miles cycled. She was then 

one of just 4 people who made it to the summit at 847m, in 

the relentless downpour. 

Nicola said “it was an 

excellent weekend, and 

it’s great fun once you get going!” 

Nicola has raised an extraordinary £515 for 

local mental health services and at RAMH 

everyone is incredibly proud and grateful for 

her fantastic efforts. The event was organised 

by Sport Ecosse Events. 

If you would like to fundraise for RAMH contact enquiries@ramh.org or 0141 

847 8900 for a free fundraising pack. 

Keeping connected is 

essential for wellbeing 

Loneliness and social isolation can be as detrimental to health as smoking 

15 cigarettes a day. Although we often hear about loneliness affecting older 

people, it can actually affect people of all ages and backgrounds. 

Staying connected is crucial to sustain good mental health. Reaching out and 

talking to people you trust is important because it lifts moods and enhances 

wellbeing. 

RAMH is doing more work later this year to investigate how we can facilitate 

“Connectedness in our Communities”. Keep a look out for our questionnaire 

and consultation events on how local organisations can help overcome chronic 

loneliness. 

The RAMH AGM will be held on Thursday 12th October, from 11am–3pm at 

the Paisley Lagoon and you are warmly invited. Contact 0141 847 8900 or 

enquiries@ramh.org for more information and to register your attendance. 

Photos & Videos Wanted 

At the Advertizer, we are always keen to get updates for our 

website and we’re sure there will be plenty of great photos and videos out 

there taken by our readers. Plus our readers enjoy looking through the images 

to see who they recognise, or even if they are there themselves! 

We prefer landscape shots for our cover shots so if you would like to see your 

work featured on our website or even as a cover shot, please send high res 

images to info@advertizer.co.uk. 



13 

2017 Canyoning Challenge 

a leaping success 

A team of 22 RAMH supporters 

completed the canyoning 

challenge in Aberfeldy on Saturday 

26th August, raising a staggering 

£5,500 for local mental health 

services. 

Similar to many of the people 

that RAMH provides services for, 

they had to overcome their fears and believe in themselves to complete the 

challenge. 

Chief Exec, Stephen, said “we had a fantastic group of people take on the 2017 

Canyoning Challenge to support mental health services. They all did incredibly 

well and we are delighted with the staggering sponsorship totals that everyone 

reached; this money will really enhance the holistic services we are able to 

provide, empowering local people on their recovery journey from mental ill 

health”. 

The challenge involved swimming, sliding and jumping through the canyon on 

the River Tay. The highest jump was a nerve wracking 8.5m. 

Big thanks to everyone who took part including top fundraiser and RAMH 

volunteer Dawn Kyne, who raised over £600! Thanks also to AK Rentals who 

donated the day’s hire of the minibus to get all the supporters up to Aberfeldy. 

The next event is the RAMH Firewalk on Saturday 6th January 2018, in Paisley. 

Last year’s event was a sellout, so be quick! For more information visit www. 

ramh.org/fundraising or email enquiries@ramh.org for a registration form. 


14 

October 

Fri 29 Sept 

Autumn Harmonies 

St Columba’s Church, Duchal Road, 

Kilmacolm. 7.30pm 

with Pat Pettinger, Jamie MacDougall,Calum 

Macdonald, Walter Blair, accompanist Svetlina 

Stoyanova, Hilary & Cara Ewing-Mackie, Andrew 

Pattison, bagpipes. Tickets £10. 

Bat Night 

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch. 7.30pm 

7.30pm – late! Bring a torch! In the evening 

(Friday) we’ll have an interesting presentation on 

bats, followed by a guided walk with bat detectors 

and the experts if weather permits. Please book, 

as places are limited and due to the popularity 

of this event, please pay at time of booking. 

Please book, as places are limited and due to 

the popularity of this event, please pay at time 

of booking. Cost: Adults: £6; Children: £3 (RSPB 

members: £3/£2) 

Sat 30 Sept 

The Allander Jazz Band 

Church Hall & Carrick Centre, Houston. 

7.30pm 

Come along and enjoy the happy, foot-tapping 

music, for Dixieland and Traditional Jazz 

enthusiasts. Tickets includes cheese & wine. 

Tickets £10. 

Casino Night 


Mon 2 Oct 

Winter Hours 

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip 

Road, Lochwinnoch. 10am to 4pm 

The nights are drawing in! Winter opening hours 

begin at Castle Semple. Greenock and Muirshiel 

Visitor Centres are open at weekends until Sun 

22nd October or by prior arrangement. 

Kilbarchan Smile Planning 

Meeting 

Old Library Centre, 9 High Barholm, 

Kilbarchan. 7pm 

New members welcome - meet new friends, help 

care for your village, bring in ideas. For more 

information and to get involved email hello@ 

kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan 

Smile on Facebook. 

Wed 4 Oct 

BoW Embroiders’ Guild 

The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. 

7.30pm 

Guest speaker is renowned textile artist and 

designer, Malcolm Lochead, on “Sewing the 

Senses’. Members and visitors welcome! 

Thu 5 Oct 

Outlook 

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm. 

2pm to 4pm 

India – Susan and Colin Houston Travelogue / 

Photographs. 

Fri 6 Oct 

Fundraising Quiz and Italian Night 

The River Inn, Houston Road, Houston. 7pm 

Gryffe High School PTA are hosting a Quiz night 

at the River Inn. Tickets priced at only £12 per 

Adult, £8 per child or £36 for a family of four. Lots 

of games and fabulous prizes are on offer, as well 

as the quiz and a great dinner! Tickets available 

from the school office. 

Carrick Nights 

Paisley Art 

Institute 

Scottish Drawing Competition 

Sat 28th Oct - Sat 25th Nov 

Paisley Museum and Art Galleries 

High Street, Paisley 

CALL FOR ENTRIES 

Schedule and Downloadable Labels @ 

www.paisleyartinstitute.com 

or send SAE to: 

PAl Secretary, Box 114, Abbey House 

43 High Street, Paisley PA1 2AH 

Registered Charity No. SC000840 

Royal British Legion, Livery Walk, Bridge 

of Weir. 7.30pm 

BRIGHTER BRIDGE OF WEIR’S ANNUAL FUN 

CASINO NIGHT. Help raise funds and have great 

fun too! £5 entry fee includes 1 casino chip. 

Coffee Morning & Book Sale 

Langbank Parish Church, Main Road, 

Langbank. 10am to 12noon 

Sale of books, DVDs, CDs, jigsaws and children’s 

games. Donations of items or baking can be 

handed into the church on Friday 29th from 7pm 

– 9pm. Everyone is welcome to come along for a 

coffee, home baking and a browse. 

Duchal Nursery Open Morning 

Duchal Nursery School - Kilmacolm. 

10am to 12noon 

An excellent opportunity for anyone with pre 

school children interested in Duchal to visit the 

nursery and meet current parents and teachers 

and see the wonderful facilities and opportunities 

that are on offer. For further information please 

contact us on 01505 874358 or visit our website 

at www.duchal.com and our Facebook page. 

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston. 8pm 

The new season of Carrick Nights features 

the well kent singer and BBC presenter Jamie 

Macdougall’s and his Bardic Trio. Tickets are 

£12 or Concert Series tickets discounted to £36. 

Concessions for children and students all thanks 

to financial assistance from Enterprise Music 

Scotland. Pre concert Meals are available in the 

Carrick Cafe but prior booking is necessary. For 

tickets or further information call 01505 229597 

or email thecarrickcentre@gmail.com 

RSPB Renfrewshire Local Group 

McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive, 

Renfrew. 7.30pm 

There will be an illustrated presentation by Jim 

Coyle entitled - The Birds of Glasgow’s Local 

Nature Reserves. All welcome. 

Sat 7 Oct 

Lochwinnoch Curling Club “Come 

& Try” Session 

Bowfield Rd, Howwood, PA9 1DE. 3pm 

Ever fancied trying Curling? Now’s your chance. 

We’re inviting you along to the “come and try” 

session. All you need to bring is warm clothing 

and a pair of trainers (that you didn’t walk in with!) 

For more information, please contact Jennie on 

07752 431 135 We look forward to welcoming 

you along. 


Sat 7 Oct 


Coffee Morning for Christian Aid 

Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm. 10am 

Come along to our Coffee Morning for Christian 

Aid. Stalls, homebaking, everyone welcome. 

St Columba’s School Open Morning 

St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm. 

10am to 1pm 

Junior School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm 

PA13 4EQ and Senior School, Duchal Road, 

Kilmacolm PA13 4AU There is no better way to 

experience the true atmosphere of St Columba’s 

School than to come and see it for yourself. Open 

Morning provides the perfect opportunity for 

prospective and current families to see our Early 

Years, Junior and Senior Schools in action – tours, 

variety of activities and a welcome presentation 

from the Rector, Mrs Angus, at 10.15am and then 

again at 11.45am in the Senior School Hall. A 

minibus service will operate between Junior and 

Senior School. Please do come along from 10am- 

1pm and let our pupils show you what makes St 

Columba’s so special. www.st-columbas.org 

Sat 7 - Sun 22 Oct 

Explorer challenge: Could you be 

a Hedgehog? 

RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch. 

10am to 4pm 

Spend some quality family time together at RSPB 

Lochwinnoch! This event is not your usual kind 

– you do it with your own family in your own time! 

Simply pop into the Visitor centre, where the 

friendly staff will get you started. Then, go out on 

the reserve and find out what it might be like to 

be a hedgehog! (centre open 7 days) Cost: £3 per 

child (RSPB members £1) [Normal trail fees apply 

for accompanying adults] Email: lochwinnoch@ 

rspb.org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 

Sun 8 Oct 

Identify Trees 

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 

1pm to 3pm 

Ranger led walk to identify trees – the tricky ones 

have no leaves. 

Gateway Garden Drop In Sessions 

Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan. 1pm 

Take part in gardening activity and fun for all 

the family. Help us plant bulbs around the 

village – grab some for your own garden! Expert 

advice - bring your questions. All welcome. Free. 

No need to book - just come along. For more 




Wed 11 Oct 











Thu 12 Oct 

Sòlas Bereavement Group 


6.30pm to 8.30pm 

Sòlas Bereavement Group. 


Thu 12 Oct 

Kilmacolm Civic Trust Autumn Talk 

Kilmacolm Community Centre, 

Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm. 7.30pm 

“Building the Dream”. In 1987 Civil Engineer 

Graham Roxburgh conceived the idea to bring 

to life Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s 1901 

competition design for the House for an Art Lover 

at Bellahouston in Glasgow. Join us to hear how 

this complex and challenging project was brought 

to its successful and iconic completion. Open to 

members and residents of Kilmacolm, Quarriers 

and the surrounding countryside. Contact 

egallaher@btinternet.com 

History Lecture 

Paisley Museum. 7.30pm 

Renfrewshire Local History Forum’s next 

archaeology lecture will take place in the Shawl 

Gallery in Paisley Museum when the speaker is 

Ronan Toolis of GUARD Archaeology. His topic 

is Discovering Dark Age Galloway and the Lost 

kingdom of Rheged. Visitors are welcome to 

attend. 

Fri 13 October 

Advertizer November Deadline 

Neva Place, Bridge of Weir. 

If you would like anything published in our 

November issue, please email info@advertizer. 

co.uk or call the office on 01505 613340. Don’t 

miss out! 

Fri 13 - Sun 15 Oct 

Scotland’s Boat Show 

Kip Marina, The Yacht Harbour, Inverkip, 

PA16 0AS. All Day 

We’ll be there at Scotland’s biggest show offering 

accessible sailing and powerboat taster sessions. 

MORE INFO: www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk 

Fri 13 - Tue 24 Oct 

The Spree 

Paisley - various venues 

Paisley’s National Festival and one of the biggest 

events in Scotland’s cultural calendar, The 

Spree is back for its sixth consecutive year with 

some of the biggest names in Scottish music, 

comedy and entertainment, including a sold-out 

homecoming show from Paolo Nutini. The twelveday 

extravaganza will see dozens of events take 

place throughout Paisley between 13th and 24th 

October and tickets are available now via www. 

thespree.co.uk. 

Sat 14 Oct 

Family Fun Day 

Gryffe Inn, Main Street, Bridge of Weir. 

Raising money for “BRAVE LITTLE FOX FUND”. 

Bumper family fun day with Bouncy Castle, 

Facepaints, Tarot Cards, Mickey & Minnie 

Appearance, Stalls, Raffles, Food & More....... 

Two of our very brave customers Gordon Ohara 

& George Robertson have agreed to be waxed!! 

You can sponsor the guys in the pub or they will 

have sponsor sheets too!! Staff & Customers will 

also be taking part in a fun run/dash around the 

village. Please come and join us (get the kids 

involved). Dress up & have fun. 

Sun 15 Oct 

Conker Championship 

Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank. 

1pm to 2pm 

Who will be victorious in the Finlaystone Conker 

Championship. Prize for the winner. 

15

16 

Wed 18 Oct 

Sat 21 October 



Mon 16 Oct 

Make Your Own Mondays: Happy 

Hedgehog Homes 


11am - 1pm OR 2pm - 4pm Hedgehogs need 

a nice safe place to spend the winter – let’s build 

them some cosy hogitats in a quiet corner of the 

reserve! We’ll also have a go at building dens 

big enough for us to fit inside – but will they be 

dry & warm enough to last the winter?! Booking 

essential. Cost: £5 (Wildlife Explorers £3) - Adults 

go free! Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 

01505 842663. 

Mon 16 - Tue 17 Oct 

RYA Stage 3 Dinghy Sailing Course 



An advanced junior course using more types of 

craft in more challenging conditions. COST: £85 

more info online and book ASAP 

Mon 16 - Fri 20 Oct 

Junior Multi Activity Week 



Get the kids active on land and water. Get 6 or 

more children together and book your own course. 

COST: 5 FULL DAYS £160 MORE INFO: Look online 

and book ASAP 

Tue 17 Oct 

Den Building 


1pm to 3pm 

Join the Rangers and see who is a budding 

Bear Grylls. 

Wed 18 Oct 

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society 

Kilmacolm Community Centre, 

Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm. 7.30pm 

The first of the Winter lectures ... Sheila and 

John Hamilton will present GARDENS OF JAPAN 

with a travelogue and photographs by projector. 

Followed by refreshments plus the chance to talk 

with Sheila and John. 


Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of 

Weir. 2.30pm 

Guest Speaker Jane Currie on “Stumpwork, from 

Charles I to Picasso”. Members and visitors 

welcome! 

Thu 19 October 

Outlook 


2pm to 4pm 

Gentle Keep Fit with Grace. Plus Mary’s Meals 

- Isobel. 

Autumn Woodland Art 


1pm to 3pm 

Join our Rangers and gather woodland materials 

to make your artistic creation. 

Thu 19 - Fri 20 Oct 

BCU Paddle Power Passport 



A junior course to learn paddlesport skills in 

kayaks and canoes on flat water. COST: £80 

MORE INFO: Look online and book ASAP. 

RYA Stage 2 Dinghy Sailing 

Course 



An improvers course for juniors to get their 

confidence up to solo sailing. COST: £108 MORE 

INFO: Look online and book ASAP. 


St Vincent’s Hospice Race Night 

Glynhill Hotel, 169 Paisley Road, 

Renfrew. 7pm 

Sparkling drinks reception at 7pm followed by 

a delicious two course meal. Our host for the 

evening will be the fantastically entertaining 

Steve McKenna who will lead us through an 

evening of fun and entertainment. To secure 

your race night badge, please contact a member 

of the fundraising team on 01505 705635 or 

email info@svh.co.uk. Badges are £36pp and 

available now. 

Fri 20 - Tue 31 Oct 

Scottish International 

Storytelling Festival 

Various locations 

Scotland’s home of stories, the Scottish 

Storytelling Centre is celebrating the 2017 

Scottish International Storytelling Festival this 

October. Now in its twenty-eighth year, the festival 

is a twelve-day event happening in Edinburgh 

and throughout Scotland from 20th October to 

31st October which demonstrates how, through 

stories, we can connect with people from around 

the world. www.tracscotland.org/festivals 


Live easy listening music evening 

Royal British Legion, Livery Walk, Bridge 

of Weir 8pm to late 

Music provided by Pete West from 8 till late cost 

£5 - come and dance the night away. Visitors 

welcome. For more information talk to us on 

01505 613530. 

Lochwinnoch Explorer Group: 

Fungi Foray 


10am to 12noon 

Calling all children! Come along and learn about 

nature, but most importantly, get dirty and have 

fun doing it! This month we will explore the 

reserve in search of some fantastic fungi! Ages: 

5 to 14 years. Please note that all children aged 

8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 

Booking essential. Cost: £5 (£3 RSPB members) 

(adults go free) Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk 

Tel. 01505 842663. 

Kilbarchan Messy Church 

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple 

Street 4pm to 6pm 

Children must be accompanied by an adult. 

Sun 22 October 

Spooky Scarecrows 


1pm to 3pm 

Bring your old clothes and design your own 

scarecrow (best ones will be displayed on our 

Halloween walk). 

TnT Bird Ringing Demonstration 

Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen 

Road nr Lochwinnoch. PA12 4LB 

10.30am to 3.30pm 

A chance to see our native woodland birds up 

close and literally ‘in the hand’ while they get their 

identification rings. MORE INFO: tel 01505 614 

791 in office hours. 

Classic Car Show 



Join us for the 8th Classic Car Show on the hard 

standing beside Castle Semple Loch, this year 

raising funds for St Vincents Hospice. MORE INFO: 

Tel 01505 842 882. 

Mon 23 October 

Stargazing at Castle Semple 


Road, Lochwinnoch. 7pm to 9pm 

Join us for an evening of astronomical exploration 

at the new location of Castle Semple this season. 

Run by our friends from Coats Observatory Paisley. 

Not suitable for under 10’s MORE INFO: Look 

online and book or tel 01505 842 882 

Wed 25 October 











Thu 26 October 

Rotary Curry Night 

Shimla Cottage Restaurant, Bridge of 

Weir. 

In support of the Rotary End Polio campaign. 

Tickets available at £18/head to cover a threecourse 

gourmet meal and entertainment. There 

will be a raffle and offers of prizes will be gratefully 

accepted for this very good cause. 

Fright Night 


6.15pm to 9pm 

Beware the woods tonight!! Take part in a guided 

walk like no other, if you dare, as we meet some 

of the reserve’s creepier characters! When 

you’ve had enough of being spooked, try out 

some fun crafts in the visitor centre. There will 

also be tasty home-baking for sale! (Tours every 

20min hour, starting 6:20pm & last tour leaving 

at 8:20pm). Please book and pay in advance. 

Booking essential, as space is limited. Cost: £6 

(RSPB members £3) Email: lochwinnoch@rspb. 

org.uk Tel. 01505 842 663 

Spinning Yarns around the World 

Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8 

Steeple Square, Kilbarchan. 7.30pm 

Travel around the world without leaving the little 

handloom weaving village of Kilbarchan, with 

a trio of talented tale weavers. Don’t miss this 

spellbinding storytelling journey, beautifully 

complimented by Alissa Murray on the Celtic harp. 

This is a BYOB event. Tickets £7/£4 [conc.] 

Fri 27 - Sat 28 Oct 

Paisley Halloween Festival 

Paisley - various venues 

Join us for a two-day spooktacular celebrating 

Halloween with lots of fun activities planned 

including a Halloween Ball and Club night in 

Paisley Town Hall, Museums at night in Paisley 

Museum and Art Galleries. There will be a spooky 

parade through Paisley town centre with the 

magical Spark! LED drummers, a fire garden, 

spectacular illuminated structures, a fire stage 

featuring Flame Oz and lots surprises in the 

town centre. 


Finlaystone Halloween Party 


6pm to late 

Our Scariest Halloween Yet. Shudder at the 

Horrible Histories and Fearsome Follies of 

the Frightful Finlaystone Estate! Booking is 

essential. 

Kilbarchan Habbies Art Class Art 

And Craft Fair 

Guide Centre, Barn Green Kilbarchan. 

12noon to 4pm 

Christmas is coming (Oh, yes it is !) Take 

advantage of the really unique, hand crafted gifts 

for sale at our Art and Craft Fair - a great selection 

of jewellery, cards, wood carvings, candles, 

textiles, paintings and more. We look forward to 

seeing you there. 



17 


Hessilhead at RSPB 

Lochwinnoch! 


12noon to 3pm 

Come and learn about the wonderful work 

done by the local Hessilhead Wildlife Hospital. 

Meet some of their patients and hear about the 

different things the staff deal with at the hospital. 

Cost: FREE Email: lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk Tel. 

01505 842663. 

Sat 28 Oct-Sat 25 Nov 

Scottish Drawing Competition 

Paisley Museum 

Biannual competition open to all artists of 

Scottish connection by birth or residence. This 

exhibition showcases the best work from the open 

submissions. www.paisleyartinstitute.org.uk 

Sun 29 October 

The Kilbarchan Smile Big Autumn 

Clear Up 

Ewing Street Car Park Area, Ewing 

Street, Kilbarchan. 2pm to 4pm 

Meet at the Ewing Street car parking area opposite 

Bog Park. If you want to make a difference to the 

village please come along and “Do Your Bit” – as 

they say many hands make light work! Equipment 

including litter pickers, hi viz vests, bags, bag 

hoops and gloves will be provided. Please wear 

strong shoes or boots. For more information and 

to get involved email hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk 

or join the group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook. 

NEVER MISS A THING! 

We keep an archive of all the featured blogs and you can 

view the current or old issues at advertizer.co.uk 

Tue 31 October 

ROAR Information Day 

Freeland Church, Main Street, Bridge of 

Weir. 10am to 12noon 

Pirie Information Centre Anne Marie Cullen from 

ROAR will be happy to tell you more about all that 

is available and details of venues and eligibility. 

Come along if you wish to find out more for 

yourself or for someone else you think may be 

interested. We will be serving tea and coffee and 

hope to make you very welcome. 

Sat 4 November 

Coffee Morning 

Elderslie Kirk 10am to 12noon 

Elderslie Kirk Guild Coffee Morning with cake & 

candy stalls. £3. 


18 


Sun 5 November 

Early Bird Christmas Gift and 

Craft Fayres 

every Monday 

Lochwinnoch Community Walk 

The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am 

This event will not take place on public 

holidays. 

FitSteps with Jennifer 

Quarrier’s Village, 6:30pm 

Tel: 07709 340675 for further information 

Pilates Class 

Kilellan Halls Houston 615-7.15 and 7.30 - 8.30. 

For more information or to book a place call Katie 

on 07972474965 

every Tuesday 

Bishopton Belles Line Dancing 

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Hall 6.30 - 8.30pm 

Beginner/Improver class. All welcome. Call David 

or Mair 07886 034037. 

Singing for Wellbeing 

Bishopton Community Centre 6pm-7.15pm 

A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs. 

every Wednesday 

Knitting Group 

Three Sisters Bake, Quarriers 10am - 12noon 

Knitters of all levels welcome! 

Skinny Minnies 

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 7pm - 8pm 

For a healthier, slimmer, more energetic you! 

every Thursday 

Weekly Volunteer Group 

Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 12.30pm - 3.30pm 

Conservation Volunteers - adult group. 

Newcomers always welcome. 

every Friday 

Singing for Wellbeing 

Bishopton Community Centre 2pm - 3.15pm 

A fun, no pressure choir singing feel good songs. 

every Saturday 


Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm 

Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers 

always welcome. 

every Sunday 


Castle Semple, Lochwinnoch 10am - 12noon 

Youth volunteer Group - age 12 - 18 years. 

Newcomers always welcome. 

Houston Litter Crew 

Co-op Car Park 10am – 11.45am 

All volunteers welcome and all equipment 

supplied. 

2nd & 4th Wednesday 

BoW Senior Citizens Club 

Cargill Hall 7 - 9.15pm 

Tea, biscuits & a raffle each meeting along with 

entertainment. Contact Sheila Patterson for 

further information on 01505 690521. 

1st & 3rd Thurs monthly 

‘Outlook’ 

Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm 2pm - 4pm 

Social activities group for the community in 

Kilmacolm. Guest speakers, afternoon tea, local 

issues of interest. Everyone welcome. 

Crafty Hobbies 

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 7.30pm 

No previous craft experience necessary. Call 

Lorna on 01505 612844 for further details. 

regular updates @GryffeAds 

2nd Wednesday monthly 

Inverclyde Carers Outreach 

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 11am - 2pm 

Email enquiries@inverclydecarerscentre.org.uk 

or call: 01475 735180. 

2nd Thursday monthly 

Sòlas Bereavement Support Group 

Kidston Hall. 6.30pm - 8.30pm. 

3rd Friday monthly 

Hearing Aid Clinic 

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir 1 - 2pm 

Hearing aid batteries and hearing aid checks. 

2nd Saturday monthly 

‘Brunch & Browse’ 

St Fillan’s Hall, Kilmacolm 10am - 2pm 

Soups, baking, tea, coffee, books & lots of stalls 

last Friday monthly 

TheTerrace 

St Machar’s Ranfurly Church Hall 

Soups, sandwiches, tea/coffee, biscuits. £4. 

last Saturday monthly 

Table Top Sale 

Linwood Parish Church, Blackwood Ave 11am - 1pm 

This is a free event. Call 01505 328802 for 

details. 

2nd Sunday monthly 


Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan 1pm -3pm 

Open Days with gardening and wildlife activities 

on offer 

1st SAT 

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm 

10am - 2pm 

1st & 3rd SUN 

Loch Lomond Shores 

10am - 3pm Tel: 07977 179 861 

2nd THU & last SAT 

Paisley Cross 

10am - 2pm Tel: 01655 770217 

2nd SUN 

Kip Marina, Inverkip 

11am - 4pm www.kipmarina.co.uk 

Sat 4 November 

Kilmacolm Bonfire & Fireworks 

Knapps Loch, Kilmacolm. 

50th anniversary of the Bonfire and Fireworks 

at Knapps. Police request that people do not 

stand on the pavement opposite and in the lane 

up the side of the field. Entry is only £3 (adults) 

£2 (youngsters). 

Photography 

Exhibition 

Kilbarchan Guide Centre, Barn Green, 

Kilbarchan. 1pm to 4pm 

Beat the rush and start your Christmas shopping 

early!! Stallholders include Annabelle’s Christmas 

decorations, Sweets and Knits, Threepwood Fayre, 

BrawBricht Jewellery, Mandy’s Rainbow Glass, 

All things nice jams and pickles and many more. 

All funds raised will go towards World Challenge 

India 2019. Check out our facebook page 

‘Kilbarchan Craft Fayres’ for further information. 

Entry includes Tea and Coffee: Adults £1.50 

Children £0.50 

at THE BRIDGE, 65 Main Street, 

Bridge of Weir PA11 3NR 

from 4th December 2017 to 13th January 2018 

Come along and have a look at the work of 2 local professionals – Andy Stark 

of www.stark-images.co.uk and Al Goold of http://www.algooldphoto.com/ 

Showcasing the work of The STUDIO – Bridge of Weir 

Your local photography studio caters for all types of photography from a 

simple passport photo to a family portrait session. We offer 1st Birthday Cake 

Smash events to professional model portfolios. 

Our fully equipped professional studio can do the product shots for your 

business as well as staff photos and head shots to enhance your website 

presence. We can cover weddings and events, schools and nurseries. 

If you can’t come to the studio we can come to you, with our fully mobile 

studio set up. Check out our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ 

thestudiobow/ and our web/sales site at http://thestudiobow.zenfolio.com/ 

Classics at Castle Semple 

Now in it’s 7th year this popular local show will run on Sunday 22nd October. 

Be prepared to be delighted and dazzled by our annual Classic Car Show! Run 

by Visitor Centre Assistant Jane, this show will open for cars and owners to book 

their display slot in summer 2017. 

Want to display? Numbers are strictly limited to 80 cars. If you would like to 

enter your classic into the show then we are collecting a £5 donation per car to 

be given to St Vincent’s Hospice. 

Please email classicsatcastlesemple@gmail.com for full entry information. 

Please provide Jane with your contact details and tell her about your car. 

Payment can be made either by cash to Castle Semple Visitor Centre, £5 

cheque (made out to St Vincent’s Hospice) or postal order. 

Just a member of the public wanting to come along and visit? Great! Just come 

along on the day between 11am and 3pm to enjoy beautiful classic cars and 

FREE entry. Parking will be limited in our own car park so we ask that you use 

alternative parking at Lochwinnoch Annex or park considerately in the village of 

Lochwinnoch itself. Thank you! 



Paisley Halloween Festival 

19 

Join us for a two-day spooktacular celebrating Halloween on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th 

October. 

We have lots of fun activities planned including... 

On Friday 27th October, a Halloween Ball and Club night in Paisley Town Hall, a Murder Mystery 

night with three course meal in Zambretto Italian Restaurant and Museums at night in Paisley 

Museum and Art Galleries. 

On Saturday 28th October there will be a spooky parade through Paisley town centre with the 

magical Spark! LED drummers, a fire garden, spectacular illuminated structures, a fire stage 

featuring Flame Oz and lots surprises in the town centre 

Plus there will be activities for all the family at Spook Central including Halloween arts and crafts, 

mascot meet and greats, free face painting, Halloween market, zombie apocalypse workshops 

and much, more! 

Funfair and live entertainment from local dance and theatre groups 

A fantastic selection of local street food vendors 

Information on how to reserve your place at workshops or the Halloween Ball will be released shortly 

visit www.paisley2021.co.uk/events for updates. 

Race Night 

FRIDAY 20th OCTOBER - GLYNHILL HOTEL, RENFREW 

Sponsored by The Glynhill Hotel 

Dig out your fascinator, press your suits and make sure you have purchased 

your race badge for St Vincent’s Hospice Race Night and join us on Friday 20th 

October at the Glynhill Hotel for our first Race Night. The evening, which has 

been kindly sponsored by The Glynhill Hotel, will start with a sparkling drinks 

reception at 7.00pm followed by a delicious two course meal. Our host for the 

evening will be the fantastically entertaining Steve McKenna who will lead us 

through an evening of fun and entertainment. 

To secure your race night badge, please contact a member of the fundraising 

team on 01505 705635 or email info@svh.co.uk. Badges are £36pp and 

available now. 

We look forward to seeing you in your finest attire! 

St Vincent’s Hospice can benefit from coins & stamps 

Spare foreign coins left over from your holiday, stamps from that postcard … You 

can help St Vincent’s Hospice by donating any of these to the hospice. Simply 

pop into anyone of our nine hospice shops or call into the hospice reception or 

Barn Tearoom. 

Thank you! 

Dinner/Dance 

Every Saturday night from 8pm - 11pm at Willow Bank 

Hotel, 96 Greenock Road, Largs. Booking essential. 

Call 01475 675435 for further information. 

Orchard Flooring 

Stylish, Durable: A Floor for Life 

When choosing a new floor for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration. For a 

lot of our clients, having a floor that isn’t going to be ruined by mucky feet, paw prints or spills is a 

top priority. For this reason, light cream carpets can be problematic for many busy households. 

Karndean and Amtico flooring are perfect for any room or situation in the home. They are both 

waterproof, slip resistant and warm underfoot, as well as being a beautiful and luxurious floor to 

be proud of. 

Both are easy to clean and 

without the porous qualities 

of wood and some stone. 

They bring the ageless beauty of natural flooring to your home without the hassle. 

Be it a rustic wood effect in the living room or a sleek and modern stone effect in the 

kitchen, Orchard Flooring can provide expert advice to find the perfect floor for a room. 

With a home sampling service why not give us a call and be on your way to a stunning floor 

from Orchard Flooring. 

You can contact Scott on 01505 22 9584 or 07563 633 432 

E: sjmproducts@hotmail.com website: www.orchard-flooring.com 


20 

the 

Psychedelic Confessions Of A Primal Screamer 

Sunday 1st October, 8pm – Tickets £7 

The original tambourine man of embryonic Primal Scream from 1984-87 

will be reading selected chapters of his self-published musical memoirs that 

also take in the early days of Creation Records – Splash 1 club nights and 

Silverfoilcity, Byres Rd living. 

Guys & Dolls 

Wednesday 4th - Saturday 7th October , 7.30 pm – Tickets from £16 

– £18 

Kayos Youth Theatre present their 25th anniversary show. 

Cathal McConnell Trio 

Wednesday 4th October, 8pm –Tickets from £10 - £12 

Cathal McConnell is one of Irish music’s true legends. A founder-member 

of Boys of the Lough, he presents his sweet singing and tin whistle and flute 

virtuosity with superbly talented friends, Kathryn Nicoll (fiddle and viola) and 

Karen Marshalsay (harp). 

Bonnie Fechters 

Friday 6th October 6, 8pm – Tickets from £10 - £12 

Inspiring stories and songs of women’s activism and struggle – from the 

Scottish witch-killings to Vietnam, from the infamous Magdalene institutions 

to Zero Tolerance. Threaded through with names of courageous women 

who changed the world….. 

The Swingcats: Sisters of Swing 

Saturday 7th October, 8pm – Tickets £13 - £15 

A tribute to The Andrews Sisters and the great female vocalists from the 

jazz and swing era including Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee and Nina Simone. 

Accompanied by the Karen MacIver trio and featuring their unique three 

part harmony arrangements. 

Ollie Howell Quintet 

Thursday 12th October, 7.30pm – Tickets £12 - £15 

Given his first pair of drum sticks by Radiohead’s Philip Selway, Howell is now 

emerging as a creative force and has been described as ‘an unbelievable 

drummer.’ If you like the pulse, rhythm and beat of jazz then this is the gig 

for you. 

Dirty Dusting 

Friday 13th October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £19 - £21 

Dirty Dusting is pure theatrical Viagra. Three elderly cleaning ladies attempt 

to boost their dwindling income by starting a “Sex Chat Line!” This is feelgood 

comedy will have you rolling in the aisles and unable to answer the 

telephone without having a sneaky giggle! 

Men Should Weep 

Friday 13th – Saturday 14th October, 8pm – Tickets £12 

Following the lives of the Morrison family struggling to make 

ends meet in 1930s Glasgow, the audience is taken on a journey 

exploring poverty and the role of women in a challenging and 

changing social climate. This hard hitting drama has touches of 

warmth which will endear you to the characters and their struggle for a better way of life. 

MacFloyd: The Animals Tour 

Saturday 14th October, 7.30 pm – Tickets from £14 –£18 

40th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s Animals album. The band will perform this 

classic album in its entirety as well as favourites from The Dark Side Of The 

Moon, Wish You Were Here, The Wall and many more. Enjoy an impressive 

light and laser display alongside stunning visual effects. 

Dougie MacLean in Concert 

Sunday 15th October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £18 – £20 

Scotland’s finest singer-songwriter is internationally renowned for his songs 

and inspired performances…including his ending of the Closing Ceremony 

of Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games, viewed by over a billion people 

worldwide! He has received two prestigious Tartan Clef Awards, a place in 

the Scottish Music Hall of Fame, a Lifetime Achievement Award from BBC 

Radio 2 Folk Awards and an OBE! 

Don’t Dribble On The Dragon 

Wednesday 18th October, 2.30pm – Tickets from £8 - £10 

When young brothers Jack and Tom’s friendship falls apart, can a magical 

dragon help them put it back together again? Based on the fabulous new 

book by Steven Lee and with magic designed by TV legend Paul Daniels, 

this spectacular musical adventure about growing up and the importance of 

family is the perfect feel good show. (Not recommended for under 2s). 


Memories Are Made Of This 

Thursday 19th October, 2.30pm & 7pm – Tickets from £14 - £16 

A fast moving, roller coaster of a journey through some of the greatest songs 

of the 50s, 60s and 70s. Including songs by Brenda Lee, Frank Sinatra, 

Jerry Lee Lewis, Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Bee Gees, Barry Manilow, Jersey 

Boys, Michael Buble and many more.. 

The Real Mediums Of Glesga 

Thursday 19th October, 7.30pm – Tickets £15 

“Scotland Straight Talking Medium” George Wyllie and “Scotland’s very own 

Angel of the North” Angel Anne. Join them as they connect with loved ones who 

have passed on to the higher side of life, giving a true insight into the spirit world 

and how they wouldn’t want to see any long faces only smiles and laughter. 

Des McLean Stand Up 2017: One Night Only 

Friday 20th October , 8pm – Tickets from £12 - £14 

Multi-award winning stand-up comedian, TV & radio presenter, event host 

& actor, Des has recently toured America, Canada, New Zealand, Australia 

and even played the iconic Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas! He also won three 

prestigious Sony Radio Awards for his comedy sketches on Radio Clyde. 

Joe Longthorne 

Saturday 21st October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £20 - £22 

Join Joe with his sensational live band and special guest artist, as he takes 

you on a rollercoaster of Songs and impressions including Shirley Bassey, 

Tom Jones, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and his incredible impression of 

Sammy Davis Jr, all delivered with 100% accuracy! 

The Dolls Abroad 

Sunday 22nd October, 3pm & 7pm – Tickets £25 

The must see comedy is back by popular demand! Fasten those seatbelts 

for the gutter trip of a lifetime with Scotland’s favourite scrubbers! Suitable 

for 16+ 

The Andrews Sisters 

Wednesday 25th October, 2.30pm & 7.30pm – Tickets from £17 - £18 

The UK’s only celebration of the Andrews Sisters backed by a full big band 

(the Moonlight Serenade Orchestra UK) re-creating those swinging days with 

numbers such as Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and Rum & Coca Cola along with 

the best loved instrumentals from the big bands such as In The Mood, Opus 

One and Moonlight Serenade and showcase solos from each of the Sisters. 

Horizontal Collaboration 

Wednesday 25th October, 8pm – Tickets from £10 - £12 

Sex, power and politics collide in this courtroom drama with a dark twist. 

Four steely UN lawyers read startling interview transcripts from their laptops 

in a tribunal concerning ‘horizontal collaboration’ – the name for the 

supposed wartime crime of sex with enemy soldiers. Age 16+, disturbing 

descriptions of sex and violence 

Opera Highlights 

Thursday 26th October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £5 - £12 

Each year Opera Highlights takes four singers and a pianist out and about 

around Scotland, travelling the highways and byways, by land, air and sea, 

taking a musical mix of operatic treasures to every corner of the country. 

The Sunshine Ghost 

Friday 27th October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £15 - £17 

The wonderfully comic story of the acquisition of Castle MacKinnon by a 

love-struck billionaire and property tycoon for his fiancé, ‘Astrobeth’ – 

Hollywood’s favourite astrologer. Brought brick by brick from a remote rocky 

outcrop on a small Scottish Island all the way to Naples, Florida, they soon 

discover that the castle’s previous owner has not quite ‘left’ the building… 

Dracula: A Radio Play On Stage 

Friday 27th October, 8pm – Tickets from £10 - £12 

Join three plucky 1940s radio actors as they tackle Bram Stoker’s classic, 

Dracula, as you’ve never heard it before. Vampiric lust against a backdrop 

of wartime austerity, this radio play features live sound effects and period 

music. 

Alice in Wonderland 

Saturday 28th October, 3pm – Tickets from £7 - £9 

Join Alice as she falls through the rabbit hole into a magical topsy turvey 

world of peculiarities. Alice in Wonderland brings together talented young 

dancers from across Inverclyde who take part in Beacon Youth Dance, West 

College Scotland and Clydeview Academy. 

Wheesht! 

Welcome My Son 

Saturday 28th October, 7.30pm – Tickets from £10 - £12 

A unique interpretation of Frankenstein; as told through Frankenstein’s 

monster. Seamlessly melding the disciplines of Chinese Pole and Physical 

Theatre with storytelling in this exciting rendition of the classic story, Phil 

Hardie explores the Mary Shelley Classic in a new and exciting way. 

Tuesday 31st October, 7pm – Tickets from £7 - £9 

Devised and performed by Beacon Youth Theatre’s Primary Classes and 

written by Marianne Yeomans, the mysterious Wheesht sail through the 

cracks in time when the clocks go back and the nights grow long. Bogles, 

sea snakes, witches and ghosts take the streets of Inverclyde by storm but 

what could they possibly want from us? 

BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723 



21 

Thur 

5 

Oct 

FROM 

26 

TO 

28 

OCT 

FROM 

26 

TO 

28 

OCT 

Mairi Campbell: Pulse 

Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley 7.30pm 

Tickets: £10 (£6 conc.) + bkg fee* Suitable for ages 8+ 

The award-winning musician Mairi Campbell presents her 

solo theatre show Pulse - the story of her musical homecoming, 

journey of the heart and quest to find her pulse. 

FRI 

6 

Oct 

NNE Presents: 80’s Mania 

Paisley Town Hall, Paisley 7pm 

Tickets: £18 + bkg fee* 

Europe’s Official 1980’s Multi-Tribute Concert featuring 

25 chart topping pop icons authentically recreated with live band 

and awesome dancers. With tributes to Duran Duran, The Human 

League, Kim Wilde, Culture Club, Madonna, Wham!, Nena, Toni Basil, Frankie Goes to 

Hollywood, Bananarama, Dead or Alive, Madness and many many more! 

SAT 

7 

Oct 

Damned Rebel Bitches 


Tickets: £10 (£6 conc.) + bkg fee* 

The thing about getting old is that everyone who can tell 

you off has died. Septuagenarian Scottish sisters Ella and Agnes 

survived the Clydeside Blitz in 1941 and now, in New York in the 

teeth of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, they are searching for Ella’s feckless grandson, 

whose life is in danger. 

FROM 

20 

TO 

21 

OCT 

Rocket Post 

Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley 12.30pm Friday / 11am & 2pm Saturday 

Tickets: £6 (£4 conc.) + bkg fee* Age 6+ 

July, 1934. The Western Isles. A small crowd stand on 

a beach and watch in amazement. Eccentric German 

scientist Gerhard Zucker tells them he wants to bring 

the world together. The future is about communication. The future is about 

connection. The future is… ROCKETS! Based on a true story. 

TUES 

24 

Oct 

Without A Hitch 


Tickets: £10 (£6 conc.) + bkg fee* Ages 7+ 

‘Hip hop, ya don’t stop’ – but all good things must come 

to an end. Without a Hitch follows the downward spiral of a four 

man b-boy crew as ambition, jealousy and frustration manifest in a 

group struggling to move in the same direction. 

wed 

25 

Oct 

Renfrewshire Restored 

Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley 7pm 

Free event 

RA night of local films screenings which bring the past back 

to life! Organised by Paisley Camcorder Club and RMHAFF 

(Renfrewshire Mental Health Arts and Film Festival), as part of the 

Scottish Mental Health Arts and Film Festival. 

Hands on a Hard Body 

The Wynd Centre, Paisley 7pm 

Tickets: £10 

Fat Bob has enlisted Stu to be his second as he competes 

to win a car in the ‘Hands on a Hard Body’ contest. The 

nine professional competitors and Fat Bob attired by local 

sponsors slowly fall out of the competition literally till only two survive. Can Bob 

and Stu’s master plan succeed to see the overweight local man triumph against the 

professional athletes or will he burn out in a haze of glory. 

Halloween Moon 

The Wynd Centre, Paisley 7pm 

Tickets: £10 

Set in two flats in a tenement close in Glasgow, when 

disturbed by a potential burglary the couple in the top flat 

(Angela and Steve) find themselves locked out and having 

to wait in the Mortimer’s flat below while a relative arrives later with a spare key. 

After Angela tells them about a dream she had, Kate Mortimer persuades Angela to 

hold a séance in her flat with unexpected results. 

sat 

28 

Oct 

Love Song to Lavender Menace 


Tickets: £10 (£6 conc.) + bkg fee* 

It’s 1987 and shop workers Paul and David are getting 

ready for a celebration of the 5th anniversary of LAVENDER 

MENACE, Scotland’s foremost lesbian, gay, feminist bookshop. 

From its humble beginnings in the cloakroom of an Edinburgh nightclub, (that saw 

a performance from the Village People!), this trailblazing venture has become the 

beating heart of Edinburgh’s LGBT community. But can it survive in Thatcher’s 

changing Britain of capitalism and commodification? 

Call us on 0300 300 1210 or visit https://boxoffice.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ to book 


THIS OCTOBER 

www.standuptocancer.org.uk 

If you are aged 9-18 and play a brass instrument come and join us. Rehearsals 

take place in St John’s Church Hall, Port Glasgow every Friday from 5pm. Pop in 

and talk to us or get in touch with us at secretary@riversideyouthband.co.uk

22 


Spinning Yarns around the 

World 

Travel around the world without leaving the little handloom weaving village 

of Kilbarchan, with a trio of talented tale weavers. Immerse yourself in the 

magic of Maori tales from New Zealand – “The Land of the Long White Cloud” 

with storyteller Joe Harawira. Experience the wonder of world tales from 

international multi-award winning Michael Kerins and host, Kilbarchan’s own 

Anne Pitcher. Don’t miss this spellbinding storytelling journey, beautifully 

complimented by Alissa Murray on the Celtic harp. 

Once again Kilbarchan will be part of the Scottish International Storytelling 

Festival on Tour, as it was in 2015 with “Warp & Weft Kilbarchan Woven 

in Story & Song”. This year’s theme is “Open Word, Open World” engaging 

audiences with a rich tapestry of tales from around the globe. 

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear stories from around the world in a 

cosy ceilidh atmosphere. 

To book tickets priced £7/£4 [concession] for “Spinning Yarns around the 

World” on 27th October at 7.30pm in the Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 

8 Steeple Square, Kilbarchan PA10 2JD, please contact Anne Pitcher on 

07708 059770. This is a BYOB event. 

Kids programme unveiled for The Spree festival 

Paisley’s annual The Spree festival has unveiled its family programme offering 

a range of performances and activities to help keep the kids entertained this 

October break. 

The bumper music, comedy and arts festival, which is now in its sixth year and 

taking place as part of Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021, will take 

place from Friday 13 to Tuesday 24 October with a jam packed programme 

of activities for the family. 

The majority of the shows under the family programme are free to attend and 

will offer a range of experiences for kids. 

The National Theatre of Scotland will perform their fantastically fun new 

show Rocket Post which has a great mix of songs and storytelling and is full 

of humour, heart and hope for the future. The show is based on a true story 

set in the Western Isles in 1934. It’s a tale of miscommunication, vaulting 

ambition and the joyous discoveries that happen when everything goes 

wrong. 

Those looking for an exciting challenge can take part in Big Telly Company’s 

Operation Paisley: Alien Pursuit, a game for families where they are challenged 

with deciphering a number of clues as a team. 

Little ones will be kept entertained with a range of activities from interactive 

Bookbug sessions and opportunities to meet Badger the Mystical Mutt, star 

of a series of chart-topping illustrated children’s books. There will also be old 

favourites like the Punch & Judy puppet show in the town. 

Also taking place over the festival is a comedy show written and performed 

by kids who have participated in workshops where they will learn how to write 

and deliver sketches based on their own funny experiences. Meanwhile music 

fans can learn more about Gaelic singing and drumming at Fèis Phàislig 

Workshops or find their groove with the award-winning Buddy Beat group. 

For older kids interested in digital art they will have the opportunity to 

participate in a digital graffiti board session where they can also learn about 

coding with Computer Xplorers. Craft enthusiasts can unleash their creative 

flair at jewellery workshops while budding artists and writers can join AS 

Creatives for a range of activity workshops covering everything from art to 

creative writing and poetry. 

This year’s line-up includes a spectacular show from Frightened Rabbit, who 

are collaborating with The Royal Scottish National Orchestra for a once in a 

lifetime performance in the stunning surrounding of Paisley Abbey. Frightened 

Rabbit frontman, Scott Hutchison commented “This will be the last show of 

our current campaign and we’re excited it’s going to be such a special one to 

end on. Playing with the RSNO will be an absolute privilege and we can’t wait 

to hear it as much as everyone else. Having seen previous performances by 

The Twilight Sad and Idlewild, I’m sure it’s going to be a special night. See you 

round the organ for a heart-warming rendition of Keep Yourself Warm!” 

Trad heavyweights, Breabach are joined by some of the country’s finest, 

world class musicians; Kris Drever and Talisk; as multi-award-winning Irish 

artist Sharon Shannon, will take to the stage with finalists from this year’s 

BBC Radio 2 Folk awards, Fara. 

This year’s festival will be kicking off with a twist, opening with a celebration 

of twin festival, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) one of India’s 

most prestigious festivals; the musical collaboration will weave together the 

two cultures featuring traditional music from India and Scotland in celebration 

of friendship and connections. 

Other acts on the bill include Dougie McLean, Laura Cortese and the Dance 

Cards, the Pictish Trail, Emma Pollock and RM Hubbert, and a very special 

show where James Grant explores Paisley’s Untold Story. 

The Spree is renowned for hosting some of the biggest names in Scottish 

comedy and this year is no exception, teaming up with the Gilded Balloon to 

showcase some of the hottest names in comedy which are set to have the 

audience in stiches from start to finish. 

Places for many of the family activities and performances can be booked online at www. 

thespree.co.uk 

Tickets can be bought online at www.thespree.co.uk and from Renfrewshire Leisure on 

0300 300 1210. Tickets are also on sale in InCube Shop, 9b Gilmour Street; Paisley Arts 

Centre, New Street; and Feel the Groove, Causeyside Street. 



23 

Fundraising Quiz and Italian 

Night 

The River Inn, Houston Road, Houston. 

On Friday, 6th October, the Gryffe High School PTA, together with pupils from 

Gryffe High School, will be hosting a Quiz night at the River Inn. 

This year’s food theme is Italian, so come along and enjoy some wonderful 

Italian cooking from the River Inn, before getting stuck into the Gryffe High 

pupil’s quiz, which promises to be a challenge in itself! 

There will be lots of fun and activities to suit all age ranges, so please bring the 

whole family, grannies, grandpas and little brothers and sisters. 

It’s also a great value night with tickets priced at only £12 per adult, £8 per 

child or £36 for a family of four. 

Lots of games and fabulous prizes are on offer, as well as the quiz and a great 

dinner! 

Please come along and support the Gryffe High pupils and the PTA and help 

us to raise extra funds for the school for the benefit of all the Gryffe High 

students! 

Tickets are available NOW for purchase from the school office. 


24 


Financial Blog 

by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd 

Pension Death Benefits - 

Nominee or Successor? 

What happens to your pension fund when you die? What choices do 

your beneficiaries have? 

Following on from last month’s blog on pension death benefits, the 

newly introduced Pension Freedoms created a new class of potential 

beneficiary – the Successor. However, if your pension plan provider 

does not offer the flexibility of beneficiary drawdown to all classes of 

beneficiary, or you do not update your death benefit nomination, your 

beneficiaries could be denied the full range of options available. 

A successor is someone not nominated directly by the pension plan 

holder but a person who could potentially become a beneficiary of the 

pension on death. Let us look at examples; 

• You do not make a death benefit nomination and you are survived by 

your spouse and brother. The spouse is keen for some benefit to be 

paid to the brother. The scheme cannot offer the brother beneficiary 

drawdown because he was not nominated by the plan holder, and 

the scheme cannot nominate him because there is a dependant. 

• You nominate your spouse and subsequently divorce. You are 

survived by your ex-spouse and adult children. Your adult children 

cannot access beneficiary drawdown because they were not 

nominated by you, and the scheme cannot nominate them because 

your ex-spouse has been nominated. 

So, the key is to make sure that beneficiaries have the maximum 

flexibility allowed under the Pension Freedoms. Check that your plan 

provider can offer your potential beneficiaries the full range of options 

on your death. 

This information is not financial advice. If you require advice you should consult a 

professional adviser. The first meeting is normally free and there is no obligation. 

Carl Melvin is a regulated pension transfer specialist. 

Call us for a FREE financial review on 01505 59 50 60 or info@affluentfp.co.uk. 

Alternatively, pop into the Affluent office opposite Amaretto restaurant on Main 

Street, Bridge of Weir. www.affluentfp.co.uk 

IT Blog 

with Colin Fyfe of Colcom 

On October 17th we can expect Microsoft Windows 10 

to begin its ‘Fall Creators Update’. This update will be quite a large 

download and install procedure making both cosmetic changes and 

deeper security and system alterations across the windows platform. 

The procedure may well get underway of its own accord, leaving you to 

guess whether or not you have been updated. A quick and easy way to 

tell will be to attempt to diagonally alter the size of the Windows 10 start 

menu, like you may do to a window. I gather this will be one of the more 

cosmetic changes that will take place along with disappearing scroll 

bars and some other visual thematic changes. 

Microsoft Edge, the internet browser bundled with 10 is due a substantial 

improvement too, I am yet to be impressed by the browser but I gather 

that it is set to improve with this update in many ways. With this release, 

Edge now has better PDF and EPUB support, a new read aloud feature, 

an updated favourites system and a load of stability issues have been 

addressed. Maybe it is time to have another look at the browser. 

Further general improvements that I am interested to see are the inactive 

program throttling function, this could improve slow and bogged down 

computers. Battery life improvements are always a blessing for those 

working on the hoof and I am also interested to hear that Windows 

Cortana, the Siri-like voice that frightens the bejesus out of me when I 

am in the office late at night, she can now talk to Alexa, Amazon’s inhome 

media player cum salesperson. I don’t think the conversation will 

be up to much, they will be too busy monitoring each other like North 

Korean border patrol guards. 



25 


26 


Members speak at 

club meetings 

Members of the Gryffe Valley Rotary Club have a very 

wide range of professional and business experience 

(including engineering, banking, manufacturing, agriculture 

and medicine…) and this leads to some very interesting meetings and 

discussions. In the last month, three of our speakers, Hamid Khatib and 

Colin Bird and Sai Kumar, have been members talking on their own areas 

of expertise at the dinner meetings in the River Inn. 

August 23 – Hamid Khatib – An oil and gas project 

Hamid Khatib is a 

Chartered Engineer with 

a lifetime’s experience in 

the oil and gas industry. 

The Britoil Amethyst 

Gas Field Development 

is located 40 kilometres 

east of the Humber, the 

fifth project in the North 

Sea that was discovered 

in 1970. I was not until 1985 that plans began 

to be developed as there were numerous 

challenges to be overcome. Hamid was 

appointed Engineering Manager by Britoil. 

With a team of dedicated engineers and 

with the collaboration of nine other partner 

oil companies the project succeeded in 

delivering gas into the National Grid in 1990. 

Challenges included the installation of four 

wellhead unmanned platforms (two built by UIE on the Clyde) in the busy 

shipping area and finding technical solutions to prevent hydrates, carbonic 

acid corrosion and liquid slugs in the 30 in. Diameter, 49 kilometre wet gas 

export pipeline to shore. This was done by methanol injection premixed 

with a corrosion inhibitor at the wellhead using a 3 in. Piggy back pipeline. 

Slugging was prevented by regular “sphering” through the installation 

via an automatic launcher at the furthest eastern platform to sweep the 

liquids to shore into an onshore slug catcher. Remote control of production 

including the automatic release of spheres was carried out using a fibre 

optic link incorporated into the 50 kilometre, 10kV power import cable. They 

had to comply with the UK requirement that pipelines must have facilities to 

enable in-service inspection (NDT) by intelligent Pigs ( originally invented 

by British Gas ) to ensure technical integrity. Amethyst was the first totally 

unmanned, remotely operated field and was highly profitable, supplying 4% 

of UK’s needs. 

Hamid is justifiably very proud of the whole project that has been copied 

by other companies and is still producing. After many questions to Hamid, 

President Nigel offered our congratulations. 

August 30th – Colin Bird - Plastic Pipes for life 

Colin qualified in Metallurgy and has 

worked for most of his career in Nondestructive 

testing (NDT) in the power, 

nuclear and oil and gas sectors. 

He recently retired from Doosan 

Babcock. His talk focussed on the use 

of ultrasonics to inspect welded joints 

in plastic pipes used for gas or water. 

Techniques which he developed are 

now used widely on UK nuclear power 

stations and abroad on gas pipelines 

and nuclear plant. Q+A covered details of the technology, the economics of 

testing and the techno- politics of health and safety regulations in different 

countries. Past President Angus gave the vote of thanks. 

Sept 16th – Sai Kumar on Hip 

Replacements and the Rotary District 

Governor Gary Louttit 

Sai, who has now retired as an 

orthopaedic surgeon, talked about was on 

the history of Total Hipjoint Replacement 

(HRT). He suggested that most of have 

had such a procedure or know someone 

who has, but we don’t know much 

about it. Aided by some rather graphic 

props (see the photo) he took members 

through the evolution of the process from 

a surprisingly early start in 1891 to today 

with high volume and a high success 

rate. Some interesting materials were 

used over the years, like gold foil, pigs 

bladders and glass used for the new socket attached to the bone and a cup 

to accomodate the femeral stem, before the development of current high 

spec polyethylene and alloys. 

Sai finished off with a short but graphic videa of an actual operation - not 

for the faint hearted but a fitting conclusion to the story of a great medical 

success story, with painfree mobility restored to some 75,000 people each 

year in the UK alone. 

On the same evening, Gryffe Valley was delighted to have a visit from Gary 

Louttit from the Renfrew Rotary club who is currently District Governor 

for the West of Scotland. He reminded the club of this year’s strapline 

“Rotary Making a Difference” and he talked of Rotary can and does make 

a difference, both at a global level like ending polio, and at a local level 

with the many projects pursued by clubs like Gryffe Valley. The aggregate 

of such effort at all levels helped to make Rotary a rewarding activity for 

members. 

Rotary BBQ and Disco a great success – over £2000 raised for charity 

The annual Rotary BBQ and Disco was held on Friday 25th August 2017 at 

Brookfield Village Hall. 

Following an excellent meal of steak or salmon (expertly cooked by 

Kilbarchan Scouts), salads and sweets (provided by Anne-Marie Mackay 

of the Carrick Centre), the evening’s fund-raising raffle took place. Thanks 

are due to The Coach House, The River Inn, and WH Malcolm group and 

members for the prizes they donated and to those present for their generosity 

in buying tickets. For the rest of the evening we were well entertained by 

the Disco with DJ Archie in his usual fine form and a crowded dance floor 

to the end. 

Date for the diary: 

Thursday 26th October 

– Rotary Curry Night 

at Shimla Cottage in 

support of the Rotary 

End Polio campaign. 

Tickets available at £18/ 

head to cover a threecourse 

gourmet meal 

and entertainment. 

There will be a raffle and 

offers of prizes will be gratefully accepted for this very good cause. 



27 


28 

LOCAL 

history 

Coal: A Hidden Secret 

The Gryffe area is not often associated with the working of coal. In 1912 

it was claimed that Renfrewshire “is not a great mining county -? it lags 

behind its neighbours,” yet, 130 years earlier, Semple described the county 

as “abounding with coal”. Thus early coal mining is one of the hidden 

secrets of the area. 

Small amounts of coal had always 

been worked from outcrops, but 

more organised workings were in 

the form of numerous holes, or ‘bell 

pits’ (shallow shafts worked close 

together) at Goldenlee (Houston), 

Brookfield and Quarrelton. 

The earliest workings followed the 

valleys of the Gryffe, Black Cart 

and Locher, where the coals were 

shallower, and to where the workings 

could be drained. From Bridge of Weir, 

coal was worked down the Gryffe 

at Kaimhill, Locherside, Sandholes, 

Craigends and the appropriately 

named Coalbog. Along Barr and 

Castle Semple lochs, coal works 

appeared at Nervelston, Blackdyke, 

Photo: Collier’s house and coal 

pits at Goldenlee in 1750 

and Lochside, then down the Black Cart from Coalhouse (Howwood), and 

Corseford to Elderslie. The earliest and most intensive workings were in the 

Quarrelton area, which had one of the thickest coal seams in the country. 

From the 1770s, ambitious estate owners were seeking sources of income 

beyond farming. Landowners, such as Speirs of Elderslie who drilled bores 

on his lands of Newton, was soon working coal from several pits. By the 

1790s the availability of coal was described as one of the main advantages 

of local parishes. At Quarrelton, Corseford and Kerse, the pits were initially 

kept dry using pumps driven by water wheels or horses. Gradually, larger 

pits including Nervelston, Thorn and Elderslie added steam engines to lift 

out the coal and pump out water. 

To anyone passing through the area around 1800, coal workings would 

have been a common sight. By the Victorian period, much deeper coal was 

worked under the flatlands of Linwood Moss and Fulton. The only visible 

signs were pitheads, which came and went in a few decades, leaving little 

trace. This led to the perception that coal working barely existed in the area. 

A local supply of coal had been crucial for the growing settlements such as 

Johnstone, Kilbarchan, Houston and Bridge of Weir. However, the biggest 

use of coal was not to ‘boil the pot’, but to process another little-known 

mineral: limestone. This will be investigated next month. 

© 2017 Stuart Nisbet, Renfrewshire Local History Forum 

Archaeology Lecture 

Thursday, 12th October, 7.30pm - Shawl Gallery, Paisley Museum 

The Forum’s next archaeology lecture will hear from guest speaker Ronan 

Toolis of GUARD Archaeology. His topic is Discovering Dark Age Galloway 

and the Lost kingdom of Rheged. Visitors are welcome to attend. 

Want to start a business but not sure where to turn or how to do it? 

Business Gateway Renfrewshire 

can give you practical help, advice 

and support for new and growing 

businesses in Scotland. 

Contact us on 0141 530 2406 or 

on Facebook www.facebook.com/ 

bgrenfrewshire/, or visit the website at 

www.yourbusinessgateway.co.uk 


Supreme Sacrifice Bridge of 

Weir and the Great War 

100 years ago this month – October 1917 

Private James Burns, Army Service Corps 

The war took some of Bridge of Weir’s young 

men to parts of the Empire they could scarcely 

have expected to see when they volunteered 

in 1914. James Burns for one. James was 

born in 1893 in Mauchline, the elder of two 

sons born to domestic coachman James 

Burns of Fenwick and Margaret Jaffray, who 

had married in Glasgow in 1892. In 1911, 

the Burns family was living in 43 Claremont 

Terrace Lane, Glasgow but James (18) had 

left home and was a domestic groom for the 

Ogilvie family of Corsliehill House, Houston. 

By the time he volunteered in November 

1914, he was a chauffeur at Gryffe Castle 

which had been let to William Alexander Campbell, a cousin of 

former Prime Minister Henry Campbell Bannerman. 

Experienced drivers were often recruited to the Army Service Corps, the 

logistics and transport support to the front-line troops. James was assigned 

to Mechanical Transport Reinforcements and embarked for Dar es Salaam 

to join the East Africa Campaign. 

German East Africa (now mainly Tanzania) bordered British East Africa 

(Kenya) and their colonial armies started fighting each other a few days 

after the European War began. British forces were larger but the German 

commander, von Lettow-Vorbeck, fought a shrewd guerrilla war, conceding 

territory but avoiding pitched battles, his aim being to tie up significant 

British manpower and keep them away from the Western Front. His small 

force was never caught, despite being chased across East Africa, for a 

time by the former Boer commander General Smuts, now a loyal servant 

of the British Empire. The Germans finally surrendered two weeks after the 

Armistice. Word took time to reach the further flung cockpits of the world 

war. 

Africa was a hazardous assignment, 

not so much from German bullets 

but from tropical disease, and 

James contracted dysentery and 

died on 8th October 1917 in Dar 

es Salaam, Tanganyika (now 

Tanzania), and was buried in the 

War Cemetery. 

His younger brother Robert had already been killed at the battle of Arras in 

May 1917. Their parents had lost their only two sons within six months. 

Read more about James Burns’s life and untimely death at http://www. 

bridgeofweirmemorial.co.uk and in the book “Supreme Sacrifice: A Small 

Village and the Great War available from www.birlinn.co.uk or Abbey Books, 

2 Well Street, Paisley, and other major bookshops or online. 

Gordon Masterton 

Johnstone History Society 

Our second meeting of the season will be on Tuesday 10th October at 

7.30pm in the Masonic Hall Collier Street. This month our speaker will 

be Colin Mackie and his subject will be “Southern Necropolis” the Gorbals 

city of the Dead this should be a very interesting talk. We hope for a good 

attendance of members and visitors and all will be made welcome. Our 

membership fee for the year is £10 per person and £2 per night for visitors. 

We had a very well attended first meeting of the year and our speaker 

Donald Reid gave us a very interesting insight into life in the mining villages 

of the Doon Valley many of which have now disappeared. 

The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from 

10.30am till 4pm. We were open 2nd and 3rd September for Doors Open 

Day and had a very busy weekend with many children coming in to get their 

books stamped and were able to take part in our quiz. On Sunday there 

was a walk round the Centre of Johnstone led by Gerry Rafferty who has 

a vast knowledge of Johnstone. We also have a display of uniforms and 

information of the some of the organisations available to young people in 

Johnstone and the surrounding area. There are many books and maps 

for sale in the Museum, these may also be purchased online at johnstone 

history.org and may be paid for via PayPal. 



29 

100th Anniversary Of The 

Balfour Declaration 

The 1917 Balfour Declaration is widely regarded 

as one of the most formative and far-reaching 

documents in the modern history of the Middle 

East. It was the cornerstone of the Zionist project to 

transform Arab Palestine into a ‘Jewish state’. The 

Declaration and subsequent events changed not 

only the demographic map of the region but also its 

political, social and military configuration as well. 

British liberal public opinion at the time felt that the 

West had a responsibility to enable a Jewish homeland due to historical 

injustices suffered by the Jews for which they believed the West was to 

blame. In the aftermath of WWII and the Holocaust, the push for a Jewish 

homeland intensified amidst growing international support for the Zionist 

Movement and the creation of the State of Israel. 

What was the Balfour Declaration? 

The Balfour Declaration was a brief letter dated 2 November 1917 by Lord 

Arthur Balfour, the British foreign secretary at the time, addressing Baron 

Lionel Walter Rothschild, a British Zionist peer, expressing the British 

government’s support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine. The letter read 

as follows: 

Dear Lord Rothschild, 

I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His 

Majesty’s Government, the following Declaration of sympathy 

with Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been submitted to, and 

approved by, the Cabinet. 

‘His Majesty’s Government view with favour the establishment in 

Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use 

their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it 

being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may 

prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish 

communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed 

by Jews in any other country.’ 

I should be grateful if you would bring this Declaration to the 

knowledge of the Zionist Federation. 

Yours, 

Arthur James Balfour 

To the Zionists, the Balfour Declaration of 1917 laid the foundation for the 

formation of the State of Israel. To the Palestinians, however, it was an act 

of dishonesty and betrayal by Britain. So who is Balfour? What was the 

declaration? And why does it remain contentious? 

Come and find out more about the issues of peace and justice in Israel/ 

Palestine with Dr Michael Marten, leader of the Iona Community 

Balfour Evening, Nov 14th at 6.30, The Bridge, Main Street, Bridge of 

Weir. All welcome but places limited find out more mjbird55@gmail.com 

Dr Michael Marten of the Iona Community will 

speak about the issues related to this pivotal 

document 

Michael is the first lay person to be appointed 

as leader of the Iona Community and has 

lectured in Middle East politics at the University 

of London and in religion at Stirling University. 

He is actively committed to justice, peace and 

environmental issues and also campaigns on issues related to wider Middle 

East and Christian Jewish and Muslim relations. 


Kilbarchan October 1917 

Private Adam Deans served in the Australian Imperial Forces. He was born 

in Alexandria but in 1891 the family was at 1 Church Street and in 1911 

at 5 High Barholm. Adam migrated to Australia in1911 and was employed 

as a miner. When he enlisted on 25th May 1916 he was married to Janet 

Deans and they lived at Harvey Street, Collie, with their daughter Agnes. 

Adam was 5 feet 4 and a half inches in height, weighed 123 pounds, had a 

fresh complexion and blue eyes and brown hair. He embarked at Fremantle 

on HM Australian Transport Argyllshire and arrived at Devonport on 10th 

January 1917. After training as a pioneer he went to France, via Folkestone 

on 6th August 1917. On the 22nd of August he was posted to the 10th 

Australian Infantry Battalion. The Third Battle of Ypres, commonly known 

as Passchendaele was under way. He was killed on 8th October, on the 

eve of an offensive at Poelcapelle on he 9th. A letter to his parents at 36 

Steeple Street, confirmed his death. Adam Deans has no known grave and 

is remembered on Panels 7-17-23-27-29-31 on the Menin Gate, Ypres. 

McDowalls butchers crowned 

Scottish Champions 

McDowall Butchers Ltd Paisley recently won the best speciality pie in 

Scotland for their steak and sausage pie from the Craft Butchers Club. 

They’re thrilled to win the award as gold is an achievement but diamond is 

the icing on the cake! 

Iain and Alison Telfer previously owned the Achengree farm shop in Ayrshire 

and got over 30 awards but never this one. 

They bought McDowalls two and a half years ago and have slowly been 

getting to know the business as well as putting their own stamp on it. They 

have 7 awards at McDowalls, one of the oldest butchers in Paisley (est. 

1870). It is a family affair with Iain running the business alongside his wife, 

Alison, and their son, Cameron, who just left university with a degree and 

joined the business in spring. 

They have three other employees and three vans on the road making 

deliveries 6 days a week to Paisley, Glasgow, Johnstone, Bridge of Weir, 

and the surrounding areas for free! (the deliveries, not the pies!) 

Iain and Alison also visit Arran twice a week where they supply meat 

products to the hotels, restaurants and residential customers. 

Photo: Iain (left) is pictured with son Cameron (right), receiving their prize 

at the Scottish Craft Butchers Awards last month.

30 


Features to look for on the new 

polymer £10 note 

www.thenewten.co.uk 

Follow these simple steps to verify your new £10 note’s security features. 

Remember do not rely on just one feature, check a few. 

1. Check the see-through window 

There is a large see-through window on the note. A 

clearly defined portrait of the Queen is printed on the 

window with the words ‘£10 Bank of England’ printed 

twice around the edge. 

2. A finely detailed metallic image of Winchester Cathedral is 

positioned over the window. The foil is gold on the front of the note 

and silver on the back of the note. When the note is tilted a multicoloured 

rainbow effect can be seen. 

The foil £ symbol in the window is silver on the front of the note and copper 

on the back of the note. 

3. At the side of the window is a coloured quill which 

changes from purple to orange when the note is tilted. 

This effect can be seen on the front and back of the 

note. 

4. Check the foil patches 

On the front of the note, below the see-through window, 

is a silver foil patch. When the note is tilted the word ‘Ten’ 

changes to ‘Pounds’ and a multi-coloured rainbow effect 

can be seen. 

5. On the front of the note, above the see-through window, 

is a silver foil patch containing an image of the coronation 

crown which appears 3D. When the note is tilted a multicoloured 

rainbow effect can be seen. 

6. On the back of the note, there is a book-shaped copper 

foil patch which contains the letters JA. It is immediately 

behind the silver crown on the front. 

7. Check the polymer and the raised print 

The note is printed on polymer which is a thin and flexible plastic 

material. By running your finger across the front of the note you 

can feel raised print in areas such as the words ‘Bank of England’ 

and in the bottom right corner, around the number 10. 

8. Check the print quality 

The printed lines and colours on the note are sharp, clear 

and free from smudges or blurred edges. 

9. Check the microlettering 

Using a magnifying glass, look closely at the lettering 

beneath the Queen’s portrait - you will see the value of 

the note written in small letters and numbers. 

10. Check the ultra-violet feature 

If you look at the front of the note under a good quality 

ultra-violet light, the number 10 appears in bright red and 

green whilst the background remains dull in contrast. 

New partnership programme launches in Renfrewshire to keep young 

drivers safe on the road 

Young drivers at 

Renfrewshire Council are 

set to improve their skills 

behind the wheel as Police 

Scotland launched a new 

partnership programme in 

Renfrewshire. 

More than 40 driving 

instructors and learners 

attended a launch event at 

the Gleniffer Hotel which outlined the benefits of the programme through 

presentations by Police Scotland and the Motor Schools Association of 

Great Britain. 

The new driver scheme aims to provide young drivers with the skills 

and knowledge needed to lower the risk of a collision for inexperienced 

drivers. 

The scheme will link with the Council’s Modern Apprenticeship programme 

and young drivers will have the opportunity to attend workshops designed 

to improve their hazard perception. 

The course will use case studies to identify the missed hazards which 

ultimately caused a collision, recognise why they were missed and provide 

the solutions to ensure that drivers will not make the same mistakes. 

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, 

Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “This new programme will be a fantastic 

resource for our Modern Apprentices to take advantage of and will prepare them 

for life on the roads, both in their own vehicles and when using the council fleet. 

“It is important that young drivers are able to deal with the hazards which may 

present themselves on the roads and the course allows the risks to be addressed 

in the classroom before facing them in reality. 

“This training will ensure that all young drivers who have access to the council 

fleet will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive the vehicles safely 

and appropriately as they carry out their role within the organisation.” 

Since the scheme was launched in February 2017, more than 1000 drivers 

have taken part in workshops with Police Scotland to enhance their hazard 

perception skills when behind the wheel. 

Superintendent Nichola Burns, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Division, said 

“Working in partnership with Renfrewshire Council is a fantastic way for us to 

reach out to new drivers through their modern apprentice programme. 

“It allows us to promote road safety by discussing opinions and driving styles, 

and highlighting the dangers of peer pressure and bravado whilst in control of 

a vehicle. 

“Working in partnership with Renfrewshire Council allows us to improve 

road safety by delivering the right messages to the right audience and at the 

most appropriate time. We hope our presentations will change attitudes and 

behaviours.” 

The Council will make the course available to all its modern apprentices, 

with an initial focus on those who will have access to the Council fleet. 

All employees currently have to undergo a pre-assessment check before 

being allowed access to a council vehicle and the training will expand on 

this to ensure all necessary precautions are in place. 

Constable Craig Beaver of Police Scotland’s Road Policing Department, 

said: “We will be delivering the New Driver Scheme to all apprentices within 

Renfrewshire Council over the next few months. 

“Our resource is impactive, informative, and puts the hazard perception skills 

which new drivers have acquired into a real life context.” 

If you are a new driver, or an employer of new drivers and feel you may 

benefit from this free opportunity, please get in touch via newdriverscheme@ 

scotland.pnn.police.uk. For more information on the scheme visit: www. 

scotland.police.uk/contact-us/new-driver-scheme. 



Queensferry Crossing by Chloe McGinn 

31 

Thanks to everyone who took part in LEAP’s Cycle for 

Summer 

Local people, their families and a member of Ride 63 

based at Clyde Muirshiel, got on their bikes to cycle a 

total of 3153 miles between July and August this year 

for LEAP’s Cycle for Summer challenge. 11 participants 

collectively clocked up these cycled miles, a distance 

equivalent to a cycle 

from the West to the East Coast of 

USA, as the crow flies. Organiser 

Lesley Ritchie from LEAP, said of this 

achievement, ‘It just goes to show 

that when people come together for a 

challenge, there’s no end to just what 

can be achieved, and as just under 

half of these cycled miles were to 

replace a car journey or to commute 

to work, people are fitting in cycling 

Michael Divers 

cycling on Dalry Moor in August 2017 

to their daily lives. Well Done to everyone who took part in this year’s 

community cycling challenge!’ Michael Divers, from Ride 63, pictured here 

on the Dalry Moor, personally contributed to just under half of the cycled 

miles achieved including daily cycling journeys of 25 miles to and from 

work. For more information about LEAP’s future cycling activities, contact 

lesley@myleapproject.org or join us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ 

myleapproject for upcoming events, such as group cycles. 

Lochwinnoch Bike Swap was a Big Bike Revival success 

For LEAP’s latest Bike Swap at Castle 

Semple Loch on 2nd September, 

we combined the Bike Swap with a 

full programme of cycling activities 

funded by the Big Bike Revival, 

Cycling UK. Over 80 people attended 

the event and took part in the Bike 

Swap by swapping and/or donating 

bikes, getting tips on cycle safety and 

maintenance or a check of their bike, 

by taking part in one of our electric bike or manual guided cycle rides, or 

by getting a taster trial of electric and manual cycles at RT Cycles base in 

Lochwinnoch. Thanks to everyone who came along to enjoy cycling and 

for all the partners who 

lent their time to come 

out on what turned out 

to be a beautiful sunny 

afternoon. For more 

information on our Bike 

Swaps, contact susie@ 

myleapproject.org and 

visit our facebook page 

at www.facebook.com/ 

myleapproject. 


32 


Kilmacolm Flower Show 17 

Saturday 2nd September in New Community Centre, 

Kilmacolm 

Kilmacolm Horticultural Society was formed in 1879, 

one of the oldest Societies still active in Scotland today. 

Thank you to all our exhibitors who entered the 2017 

Kilmacolm Flower Show. A happy day ! 

Here are the Cupwinners’ Results for 2017: 

Alex Inglis 

Most Meritorious Exhibit in the Show 

Derrick Russell Best exhibit in Annuals, best exhibit in 

Chrysanthemum, Best exhibit in Gladioli, nest 

exhibit in Herbaceous, most pts in Annuals, most 

pts in Onions, most pts in Sect 1 Cut Flowers, 

most pts in Sect.3 Vegetables 

Andy Aitken 

Best exhibit in Dahlias, best exhibit in Tomatoes, 

most pts in Dahlias 

Mrs Irene Gillone Best exhibit in Fuchsias, 

Jack Taylor 

Best exhibit in Containers/Hanging Baskets, 

Jim McCann 

Best exhibit in Sweet Peas 

Mrs Margaret Anderson Best exhibit in Roses 

Mrs Elizabeth Manson Best exhibit in Pot Plants, Most pts in Sect 2 Pot 

Plants/Containers/Hanging Baskets 

Vince Graham Best exhibit in Garden News sponsorship of TOP 

VASE 

Miss Mahri Gilbert Most points in Children’s Section 

Mrs Jennifer O’Rourke Most points in Kitchencraft 

Mrs Susan Collin Most points in Novices 

Mrs Helen Calvert/ 

Mrs Lilian McWilliam Most points in Floral Art 

Mrs Judith Russell Winner of the Jimmy Whittet Trophy at the March 

Spring Bulb Competition 

The fi rst of the Winter lectures 

is on Wednesday 18th October 

at 7.30p.m. in New Community 

Centre, Kilmacolm. Sheila and John 

Hamilton will present GARDENS 

OF JAPAN with a travelogue and 

photographs by projector. Followed 

by refreshments plus the chance to 

talk with Sheila and John. 

Gryffe Advertizer - Current & Past Issues 

www.advertizer.co.uk/issues 

The PICTURE GALLERY depicted 

an entry depicting ‘A Favourite 

Flower, or Fruit, or Vegetable’ All 

entries were highly commended – 

imaginative, colourful, exciting. 

Three Winners were chosen : 

Tom McGoldrick, Holly McIntyre, 

Eleana Ferguson. 

Autumn Leaves 

us Wondering 

Those who follow the work of Brighter Bridge of Weir know that we plant 

and maintain flowers and shrubs throughout the village. This year, for the 

first time since we began, we planted some trees too. Not many, just four 

so far, one in the village at Main Street, and three at the east entrance, 

nearby our ‘Welcome to (Brighter) Bridge of Weir’ sign on Johnstone Road 

(pictured). 

Unfortunately something, possibly water logging, has claimed the life of 

one of those in the Johnstone Road site. It was a sorbus, which would have 

looked spectacular in autumn, spring and summer, but we’ve had to dig it 

out and dispose of it. Now we’re wondering if the others will survive. We’ve 

done what we can to improve the ground conditions and drainage round 

the other two but we’ll have to keep our fingers crossed that they make it 

through the winter. 

Anyway, clouds, silver linings and all that; local residents and passers-by 

have told us how impressed they have been by this year’s fl oral displays 

in the village, and certainly the basket and planter displays have fl ourished 

and lasted well throughout the 

year. From about the middle of this 

month we’ll start clearing these 

out in preparation for the planting 

of next year’s flowers. And then 

there’s the festive season…can we 

mention that yet? Well, we do say 

that we intend to make Bridge of 

Weir brighter all year round! 

Our annual fund-raising Fun Casino 

Night was held on the last day of 

September. You can find out how it 

went by following us on Facebook or 

visiting www.brighterbridgeofweir. 

org. 



33 

Kilbarchan Beekeepers 

Ivy is the last of the honeybees main 

source of pollen for the year, and the 

colonies are now full of the bees that 

will see the hive through the late Autumn 

and Winter months into spring. It is really 

key that we don’t tidy our gardens too 

much at this time of year and cut back 

essential pollen sources such as Ivy, this 

job should be left to late winter / early 

spring where possible. Beehives are 

now being prepared for overwintering, with some being loaded with Sugar 

Syrup, especially if they have had their honey taken away for extraction by 

the beekeeper. 

At this time of year the beekeeper 

is less hands on in the hives and 

attention is turned to storing the 

dry honey Super frames for winter, 

clearing out old and damaged comb 

and sterilizing equipment ready 

for its use again in Spring. Also 

honey extraction, wax and propolis 

harvesting is underway and the 

products from the hive turned into 

jars of honey for consumption, honey 

for making mead, wax for making 

candles or cosmetic use (which 

propolis is also used for). Propolis 

is one of the lesser known products of the hive, it is a substance that is 

from the resin collected from tree buds and sap and mixed with the bees 

saliva and sometime wax, which the bees use for sealing gaps or unwanted 

spaces in the hive, and sticking things together 

to stop them moving. Propolis is said to have 

antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant 

properties, and there is a market for this usually 

in creams and tinctures for wound healing. 

Shown are some pictures of beeswax and propolis 

being used in Lip balms and moisturisers by 

some of our Association members at the recent 

Scottish Beekeepers Convention in Ayr. 

KBA hold evening meetings during Autumn & Winter months in The Steeple 

Halls, Kilbarchan between 7.30–10.00pm. You can come along and find 

out more about Honey bee husbandry and topics, drop in to find out more 

at one of the meetings below. 

9th January 

Evening Programme 2017/18 

10th October 

Frame & Box Building - Peter 

Stromberg 

14th November 

Honey Show - Judge: Alan Riach 

12th December 

AGM ALL 

Beekeeping DVD’s Peter 

Stromberg 

13th February 

Products of the Hive Christine 

Matthews 

13th March 

Microscopy Ian Craig & Peter 

Stromberg 

Woodlands 

Fall is upon us. Our woodland trees are starting to turn into beautiful autumn 

colours of browns, red and yellows such as the Birch, Maples and Lime. 

Garden 

Transition for summer into autumn now for example the Cornus Kousa 

Chinensis in the walled garden with its berries now turning deep red. 

The leaves are turning a beautiful yellow on the Cercidiphyllum japonicum, 

The Katsura Tree which gives off a burnt sugar or toffee apple smell. 

The shrubs Hydrangia potentilla and Clematis ‘Bill Mackenzie’ are still in 

bloom. 

The Herbaceous plants Phlox and Japanese anemone in Knot Garden are 

turning. The apples and pears and picking is already underway and the 

Nerine flowers in the walled garden are starting to appear. 

Café 

The Café is open weekends and over the October School Break from 

Monday 16th to Friday 20th. 

Events 

Here is a list of our events in October. 

Sunday 8th Identify Trees 1-3pm 

Ranger led walk to identify trees – the tricky ones have no leaves. 

Sunday 15th Conker Championship 1-2pm 

Who will be victorious in the Finlaystone Conker Championship. Prize 

for the winner. 

Tuesday 17th Den Building 1-3pm 

Join the Rangers and see who is a budding Bear Grylls. 

Thursday 19th Autumn Woodland Art 1-3pm 

Join our Rangers and gather woodland materials to make your artistic 

Creation. 

Sunday 22nd Spooky Scarecrows 1-3pm 

Bring your old clothes and design your own 

scarecrow (best ones will be displayed on our 

Halloween walk). 

Saturday 28th Finlaystone Halloween Party 6pm 

till Late 

Our Scariest Halloween Yet. Shudder at the Horrible 

Histories and Fearsome Follies of the Frightful 

Finlaystone Estate! Booking is essential. 


34 


Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park 

October Holiday Fun – Book now! This October week treat them to a new 

exciting watersports experience with our fun activity courses. Exclusive 2 

day sailing and paddling courses PLUS for 8-15 yr olds try them all during 

our Junior Multi Activity Week running Mon 16 to Fri 20th October. Just 

£160 for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, biking, archery, raft building and lots 

more! Book online now. 

Greenock Cut Oak Shortlisted for Tree of the Year! The Woodland 

Trust’s Scottish Tree of the year competition is open for your vote until 

Sunday 8th October. Visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/treeof-the-year/scotland/ 

Classic Cars set to 

Steal the Show! – Roll 

on Sunday 22nd October 

when we will again host 

Classics at Castle Semple. 

If you would like to display 

your pride and joy email 

classicsatcastlesemple@ 

gmail.com for details or 

save the date and come 

down to enjoy! 

©FJB Photography 

Tesco Vote: Muirshiel 

Visitor Centre has been 

shortlisted in the Tesco Bags of Help campaign for a floor facelift! You can 

vote for our project in Kilbirnie and Largs stores until the end of October. 

Thank you. 

Craft Fair: Back again for 2017 is our lochside pre-Christmas Craft Fair, 

if you would like a stall please contact Helen at the Castle Semple Shop 

(helen.dowson@clydemuirshiel.co.uk) and pop the shopping date in your 

diary – Sunday 26th November. 

Muirshiel soon. 

Bog Stomp! On Sunday 3rd 

September the second Clyde 

Muirshiel Bog Stomp took place! 

Congratulations to Keiran Cooper 

for being the fastest runner to 

complete the course two years in 

a row. 

New What’s On Out now! Pick 

up your copy at your local Centre 

and attend an event at Clyde 

Beith Camera Club Photo Display: A beautiful selection of images are 

currently on display in Castle Semple Cafe above the lochside windows 

for everyone to enjoy. The group meet next on Thursday 5th October with 

a guest speaker if anyone is interested in joining them. Check out their 

website and syllabus www.beithcameraclub.org.uk for more info. 

Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: Tuesday evening’s the current club ride 

although the nights are drawing in so check facebook for ride updates. 

Contact the club by emailing the secretary ridesixtythree@gmail.com for 

a membership form and ride info. 

Tag-n-Track Project update 

It’s time for the monthly roundup from Project Officer Hayley Douglas. TnT 

is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Greater Renfrewshire and Inverclyde 

LEADER and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park 

Project News 

Another month done 

and we now have 

six gulls who have 

migrated. Last 

month we told you 

about Gary, Flyback 

and Stephen C. 

Gull. They are still in 

England, Casablanca and Republic 

of Ireland respectively. Stephen has 

now been joined by two more gulls 

in the Republic. Gully MacGullface 

hung around in Northern Ireland for 

a spell before heading to some of 

the foraging grounds that Stephen 

has used previously near Trim. We 

thought this would mean that he 

might meet up with Stephen but he 

had other plans. He decided the 

coast was for him and has headed 

to County Cork where he is feeding 

on fish and worms. Stuart also 

headed to the Republic, making a 

very brief stop on the eastern coast 

of Northern Ireland. He has headed 

to County Cavan and is feeding up 

there. The most impressive movement 

we have had so far has come from 

Clyde who lived in Beith. Clyde flew 

south on a similar route to Flyback but 

instead of stopping in Northern France 

he carried straight across the Bay of 

Biscay to the western tip of Spain. He 

then headed into Portugal and spent 

a few days living it up on the beaches 

there. But Portugal was not for him 

and he headed to Morocco. He arrived 

near to Casablanca but has headed 

along the coast and is currently at Safi 

feeding out at sea. Comparing him with 

Flyback he is a speedy gull. Flyback took 25 days to make this trip, Clyde 

took 8 days and 21 hours. What a bunch of gulls. 

I’d really like to say thank you to all the people who have shown an interest 

in the project when we have been out and about. We have started the 

school workshops in Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and North Ayrshire and 

are blown away by the positive response we are getting from pupils and 

teachers. Thanks also to the Chatterbox team who have donated £75 

towards the yearly download cost of Roger’s tag. 

To keep up to date with what our gulls are up to you can follow them at 

www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/things-to-do/widlife/tag-n-track/teamgull/ or at 

www.facebook.com/TagnTrack/ 

Do you have a birthday coming up or are you interested in supporting 

our gull project? We are offering Gull adoption packs where you can 

sponsor one of the gulls for £25 and in return you will receive an adoption 

certificate, factsheet, monthly email updates and a fluffy gull to call your 

own. Look for details on our website or email tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk 

to find out more. 

One of the projects aims is to train volunteers in the use of our camera 

traps. The joys of camera trapping are that you never know what you 

might capture. We are looking for volunteers to use and monitor our 

camera traps for 3 month periods. All training will be provided and it is 

something that only requires a couple of hours a week to collect and go 

through the footage. If you would like to find out more then please contact 

me on tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. 

Event News 

Join us on the 22nd of October for our next bird ringing demonstration at 

Muirshiel Country Park. Pop along any time between 11am and 4pm to 

see what we have caught in the nets. 

Keep up to speed with events and activities taking place on the Park’s Facebook: facebook.com/ClydeMuirshielRegionalPark or 

Twitter @Clydemuirshiel pages and Instagram pages. 



35 

areas such as hedgerows and ditches. 


A chill is definitely in the air with 

the onset of October. This drop 

in temperature causes our cold 

blooded friends to really start to 

slow down and go off to hibernate. 

In October frogs, newts and toads 

all go off to hibernate and see out 

the winter in their chosen cosy 

Frogs, newts and toads have long been associated with witchcraft and wizardry so we 

often think about these slimy and warty friends at this time of year as Halloween draws 

closer. Will some still be lurking around in the dark undergrowth as you join us on our 

Frightnight is begin run on Friday 27th October? Our spooky Frightnight tours will be 

running every 20minutes from 6.20 – 8.20pm. Don’t forget to book early as this is a very 

popular! 

Toadstools and mushrooms are also associated with this spooky time of year and October 

also holds a wonderful array of mushrooms and toadstools. These fungi love the damp 

cold weather and rapidly sprout up amongst the woodland leaf litter and fallen branches 

in a magnifi cent variety of different colours, shapes and sizes. Children will love our 

Lochwinnoch Explorer Group fungi foray on Saturday 21st October 10am-12noon. 

For more information about the reserve or any of our events, please call 01505 842 663 

or email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk 


Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan. 

The Gateway Garden team will be on hand again to welcome visitors on 

Sunday 8th October from 1pm at the monthly drop in session (every 2nd 

Sunday) and team members will also be at the garden on Wednesdays 11th 

and 25th from 2pm. Take part in gardening activity and fun for all the family. 

Help us plant bulbs around the village – grab some for your own garden! If you 

would like expert advice please bring your questions. 

Most importantly come along and meet some of the 

volunteers and find out how you can get involved. The 

garden is open to anyone with an interest at any time 

once you are a member. Find Kilbarchan Smile on 

Facebook. All welcome. Free. No need to book - just 

turn up. 

And don’t forget the 

Kilbarchan Smile Big 

Autumn Clear Up on 

Sunday 29th October, 

2pm-4pm. If you want 

to make a difference to 

the village please come 

along and “Do Your 

Bit” – as they say many 

hands make light work! 

Equipment including 

litter pickers, hi viz vests, 

bags, bag hoops and 

gloves will be provided. 

Please wear strong shoes or boots. Meet at the Ewing 

Street car parking area opposite Bog Park. 

For more information and to get involved email hello@ 


Smile on Facebook.

36 

Diaporama 


Our first meeting of the year on 11th September was a chance to catch up 

and arrange the syllabus for the year. This was followed by sequences on 

interesting places we had visited over the summer. 

Gerry started off with his show “Birds 

in a Gilded Cage” about his prolonged, 

eventful holiday in Mauritius. It allowed 

us to share some of the atmosphere of 

the island and see some of the flora, 

fauna, glorious sunsets and beautiful 

beaches. 

David had photographed and 

made a sequence of “The Clyde 

Swim 2017” which is an open water 

challenge in the Clyde fi nishing at 

Greenock. It was a documentary 

of the hardy swimmers who 

completed the swim and were 

happy to pose for photos at the 

end. 

Kate took us on a historical trip to 

Newtonmore Highland Folk Park 

to see a re-enactment of the 1745 

Jacobite Rebellion complete with 

Redcoats and Jacobites, and brought 

to life with the use of musket fire in 

her soundtrack. A must for Outlander 

fans! 

Hugh’s sequence took us to Holland, a 

land of windmills, bikes and canals. We had a wander through Amsterdam, 

Delft and The Hague to see some of the interesting architecture, the canals, 

windmills and the world famous museums. 

Bill’s first show “Le Pigeonnier” 

was made for the owner of the gÎte 

he stayed in on his French holiday 

and I am sure his superb photos 

of the interior will tempt visitors. 

His second show titled “Poppy 

Fields” was produced using only 

five slides in different ways. 

Val’s sequence was called “Mermaid of the North” and was shot in Balintore 

where there is a mermaid statue on Clach Dubh. It was accompanied by 

interesting facts about the statue. 

We ventured off to Corfu with Jim to see “Rodica’s Garden” A lovely, 

colourful, harmonic little garden with excellent flower shots. 

Ronnie brought us back to the lovely Kintyre coast and Point Sands where 

we saw abandoned boats, long sandy beaches, lovely sunsets and family 

fun. 

Fiona’s show “This is Home” took a 

look at the places gulls call home: 

from cliffs in Iceland to rooftops and 

window ledges in Rorvik and diggers 

and fish drying racks in Svolvaer. 

It was an enjoyable evening and if 

you are tempted to join us you will 

be very welcome. Our next meeting 

will be on Monday 9th October in 

The Carrick Hall Houston. 



Bridge of Weir Horticultural Society 

The Annual Flower Show was held at the end 

of August, after a spectacular thunderstorm 

earlier in the week. Our Summer was 

described by the Met Office as a washout 

and sunshine was also in short supply; only 

91% of what we expect. It was therefore 

heartening to see exhibitors carrying in 

selections of flowers and plants, fruits and 

vegetables. It was equally cheering to see so 

many younger gardeners bringing in exhibits 

and displaying varying interpretations in their 

ever-favourite classes creating: ‘Miniature 

Gardens’, ‘Fantastic Beasts’, ‘a Person or 

Animal using Fruit or Vegetables’ or ‘Flowers 

in a Mug’. In the Vegetables & Fruit section, 

Bridge of Weir Primary did themselves proud 

by winning a prize with their rhubarb and 

Houston Primary Gardening Club won 4 

prizes with their potatoes, cabbage and tree 

fruit. Alistair McKillop and Toby Bradnock 

won equal first, over more mature exhibitors, 

with their potatoes and peas respectively. 

They have agreed to share the [The Society 

Cup for Vegetables (Novices)] 50-50 over 

the year. Mrs. Carol Vallance, recently retired 

Head of Bridge of Weir Primary, was the 

guest of honour as were the Gala Queen and 

her attendants. It was good to see so many 

people coming along to see what Bridge of 

Weir can do. It’s hard work putting on a show 

and support from everyone is appreciated 

and, indeed, essential so a big thank-you 

goes to exhibitors and visitors. 

Our first meeting of the new Season will 

be held on Thursday 12th October in The Royal British Legion at 8p.m. 

When we will start with a talk from Carole Rowe entitled “Rhododendrons 

at Kilarden”. Rhododendrons do particularly well hereabouts so, If you’re 

new to gardening come along and pick up some tips. Regulars will already 

know they are in for a treat! 

The list of principal Cup and Trophy winners are: 

Cup 

Cairns Cup for Roses 

Cairns Cup for Vegetables 

John Woodrow Cup for Best Pot Plant 

Mrs William Steele Cup for Pot Plants 

Cargill Trophy for Cacti 

Mrs Fred Donaldson for Chrysants 

Mrs Longley Cooke 

for undisbudded chrysants exc class 37 

Margaret Beeton Cup for Chrysants 

Society Cup for Dahlias 

A.A.B. Beeton Memorial Cup for Dahlias 

Harold Telfer Memorial Cup for Floral Art 

Robert Sharpe Cup for Floral Art (Novices) 

Society Cup for Vegetables (Novices) x 2 

James Barclay Memorial Trophy 

for Annuals exc sweet peas 

William Steele Cup for Sweet Peas 

Mrs MA Watson Cup for Herbaceous 

Society Cup for Gladioli 

Canadian Shield for class 26 chrysants 

J.S Grant Memorial Cup class 38 Dahlias 

James Ferrier Cup - children 13 –16 

Cairns Cup - children 9 –12 

Society Cup - children under 8 years 

Society Trophy for Best in Show – Children’s Classes 

Neil Ferrier Cup for Best Exhibit in Show 

National Vegetable Society Medal & Certificate 

Top Tray (Vegetables) 

Top Vase 

RHS Banksian Medal 

Winners in last 2 years NOT ELIGIBLE 

Name 

Janis Keir 

Alex Inglis 

Megan Lovett 

Elizabeth Manson 

Ewen Brown 

______________ 

Jim Crawford 

______________ 

Jim Crawford 

Jim Crawford 

Lorna Campbell 

______________ 

Alistair McKillop and 

Toby Bradnock 

Marion Whiteford 

Peter Rentoul 

Hazel Russel 

Lorna Carruth 

Aisling Murray 

Keanna McMillan 

Skye Kandyba 

Aisling Murray 

Alex Inglis 

Alex Inglis 

Alex Inglis 

Vicky Martin 

Peter Rentoul 

37 

All too soon ‘summer’ is over, although we might be lucky 

and be able to enjoy some bright October days. We will 

be keeping our displays going for as long as possible, 

but by the end of the month it will be time to say goodbye 

to the begonias, geraniums etc. That have served us so 

well, despite the weather. Thank you to all who have made 

complimentary comments about our selection of plants. 

Special thanks this month to 

local camera enthusiast, David 

Walker, who took these lovely 

photographs of our ‘Pullman 

plants’. You can see more on our 

website. 

Next up is the planting of bulbs 

for spring 2018, as well as 

continuing to keep an eye out for 

weeds and any litter on areas 

already planted. Even after two 

plant-buying nursery visits for 

the borders at Market Place 

there are still some gaps, so 

maybe we’ll add a few more 

plants. It will take us a season 

or two to work out which plants 

will thrive, or at least survive, in 

these shady areas, and which 

will need to be replaced – a work in progress! 

We are always open to new ideas and suggestions. One idea currently 

under consideration is more involvement with children and young people in 

our village, so any thoughts or offers on this would be welcome. 

Colourful Kilmacolm is open to all. If you are able, you can choose to be 

an active gardener, helping when you can with looking after the displays, 

but we also welcome non-active members. The very modest £5 annual 

subscription supports our efforts. Membership forms can be downloaded 

from our website www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can phone Peter 

(01505 872448) or Liz (07963973031). 


38 


Rescue Centres 

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue › 01505 502415 › www.hessilhead.org.uk 

Cat Protection › 0141 779 3341 › www.cats.org.uk/glasgowac 

Dogs Trust Glasgow › 0141 773 5130 › www.dogstrust.org.uk 

Scottish SPCA › 0141 882 1688 › www.scottishspca.org 

These centres are always on the lookout for donations and fundraising. If you can 

help, please get in touch with any of the centres above. 

Wildlife Crime 

These officers can be contacted to 

report crime or to seek advice on 

wildlife crime matters. Call Police 

Scotland on 101 to report a wildlife 

crime or email us at Contactus@ 

scotland.pnn.police.uk . 

Warning to Dog Owners over Assistance Dog Attacks 

Dog owners across Scotland could face criminal charges if 

their dog attacks an assistance dog. 

From January 2016 to September 2017, 25 dogs from 

Guide Dogs Scotland were attacked by other canines. Nine 

animals had to undergo vet treatment, leaving their owners 

without their lifeline support during the recovery period. 

22 of the aggressor dogs were not on a lead or tied up in 

when the incidents happened, with all but one of the attacks 

happening in a public place. Four people were also hurt in 

the attacks while 19 owners were left emotionally affected by the incidents. 

Police Scotland is publishing a fi lm highlighting the impact of a dog attacking 

a registered assistance dog, and reminding the public, and its officers, of the 

seriousness with which such an incident will be treated. 

As a result of changes to Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs (Scotland) Act 

1991, any person in charge of a dog, whether they are its owner or not, can 

be charged if the dog in their care attacks an assistance dog. 

Guide dog owner Elaine McKenzie is featured in the video talking about the 

effect on her life and on her dog Una after she was attacked while the pair 

were out shopping: “I can only liken the noise she made to that of a screaming 

Pet Blog 

by PetVets 

Fireworks 

Phobias 

Many pets fi nd Bonfi re night a very frightening, stressful experience. Signs of 

anxiety and fear can include: 

• Cowering or hiding 

• Trying to run away or escape 

• Passing urine or faeces in the house • Restlessness e.g. Pacing and panting 

• Dogs barking 

There are many products designed to help pets cope with scary situations, including 

diffusers which release calming pheromones, oral products to reduce anxiety and in 

some severe cases mild sedatives may be useful. 

There are a number of things you can do to help your pet cope. 

Before the fireworks begin: 

• Walk dogs before it gets dark. Keep cats indoors. 

• Feed your pet. A high carbohydrate meal may help make dogs sleepy and 

calmer. 

• Ensure the house and garden are secure. A very frightened animal may try to 

escape. 

• Settle your pet down. Animals will cope better if they are in safe, familiar 

surroundings. 

• Provide a safe hiding place for your pet. Cats will often prefer to hide in an elevated 

position. 

child, she was in so much distress. Shop staff tried to pull 

the attacking dog away but it was relentless. Una bled a lot 

and had several puncture wounds in her chest. 

“For two weeks after the attack, I couldn’t get out and about 

with Una. My independence was taken away. It then took 

two months of gentle, patient work, with the support of Guide 

Dogs staff, to get Una back to working confi dently. 

“Fortunately, she recovered, but it took quite a long time for us both to get 

enough confi dence to get out and about like usual.” 

Niall Foley is Guide Dogs Scotland’s Engagement Manager and said some 

animals are so badly injured or traumatized that they have to be withdrawn 

from service: “An Attack on a guide dog can be devastating for the owner and 

their dog. It can leave someone with sight loss traumatized, isolated at home 

and robbed of their independence and freedom. 

“We urge all dog owners to be responsible when they meet guide dogs and 

other assistance dogs. We welcome Police Scotland ensuring their officers 

are aware of the serious effects of an attack on an assistance dog, and their 

commitment to keeping our guide dog owners safe.” 

To view the video visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHWxF27CQK4 or www. 

scotland.police.uk for more information. 

• Turn on the TV or radio to provide some background noise and close the 

curtains. 

During the fireworks: 

• Keep your pet indoors. 

• Don’t leave your pet alone during the fireworks. 

• Never punish your pet for expressions of fear. 

• Try not to reward fearful behaviour by providing excessive attention. However, if 

your pet comes to you for reassurance 

provide comfort by stroking gently and 

calmly. 

• It may help to keep your pet busy e.g. 

with games or training exercises. 

After the fireworks: 

It may be beneficial to visit a behaviourist 

for a desensitisation programme. This 

type of programme takes several weeks 

to months and can be very beneficial in 

dealing with noise phobias, which helps 

with fireworks fears as well as many 

other day to day noisy events such as 

vacuum cleaners or loud traffic. 

Contact Petvets on 01505 800366 to 

arrange an appointment with our qualified 

behaviourist Catherine Lindsay. 



lð§¥‡þÐœ 

∂∫∞€Ł@)( 

ÐœðŁ 

39 

LOST PETS? 

If your pet has gone missing and 

you would like to place a notice in 

The Advertizer, please call 

01505 613340 or email 

info@advertizer.co.uk 

Re-homing Pets 

Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets? 

Buddy - 2½ y/o male cat 

Buddy is a lovely, friendly big cat who is 

very laid back, but he doesn’t like getting 

his tummy tickled or being disturbed when 

he’s sleeping. He would like to be adopted 

Buddy 

into a family that have no children or other 

pets and that have an outdoor home away from busy roads with a nice 

quiet back garden for him to explore. 

Dove - female domestic long-hair 

Dove came into the Branch after having her kittens. They 

have all found good homes but Dove needs a home of 

her own. 

Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch, Glasgow G66 

5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341 

Martha - 3-4 month-old 

Martha female syrian hamster 

Martha is a gorgeous wee girl who arrived in our care 

after her owners were no longer able to look after her. 

Martha loves to run about so would love a nice big 

cage with lots of tunnels and toys to explore. She is 

not used to being handled so would be best suited with a confident 

owner who can give her very gentle introductions and allow her to 

gradually get used to being picked up. 

Puff - Bearded Dragon 

Puff arrived in our care through no fault of his own. He 

is now looking for his forever home. Puff is a lovely little 

lad who is well handled and loves to see what’s going 

on around him. Puff would love an experienced owner 

who can give him the specialist care he needs. Puff 

To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit 

www.scottishspca.org/rehoming 

Khoi - 5-7 y/o male Foxhound 

Dove 

Khoi is a lovely boy who can be a 

bit overwhelmed by new people so 

he would like a new family that will 

come and meet him a few times to start building a 

relationship before he goes home. Khoi is looking for 

Khoi 

a home with children over the age of 14 years. He 

is a very strong lad so will need an owner that can physically manage 

him when out on a walk. He gets on well with other dogs and would like 

having a buddy around the house. He cannot live with cats. Khoi can 

be left in the house for 3 to 4 hours at a time and is housetrained and 

well behaved although he may need someone around most of the day 

initially. Khoi would be looking for a home with a secure garden with a 6 

ft fence. He can be worried by some handling so is looking for a home 

that will respect this. 

Chip - 2-5 y/o male terrier: lakeland 

Chip is a typical wee terrier who isn’t a little lap dog. He loves to be on 

the go, playing with toys and exploring. He would benefit from living 

in a quiet home with few visitors. Chip can live with people aged 16 

years and over and needs his own secure garden to practice his training 

in. Chip needs an owner who is experienced with terriers and who is 

around for most of the day initially but he can be left for a few hours and 

is housetrained. Chip needs to be the only dog in the 

home and cannot live with cats. He is looking for a 

hands off home who will recognise when to give him 

the space that he needs.Chip needs a few meets at 

the centre to build a relationship before going to his 

new home. 

Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, 315 Hamilton Road, 

Chip 

Uddingston, Glasgow, G71 7SL. Open: 12noon - 4pm (inc 

weekends); 12noon- 7.30pm on Tuesdays; closed: Wednesdays 

Halloween 

Collections 

Pets at Home 

27-29 October 

West Renfrewshire Fundraising for 

Guide Dogs for the Blind are 

looking for your help 

We have a number of bucket collections 

in the following months 

Can you help out? One hour would be 

helpful for this worthwhile cause Please 

call Anne 01505 705602 

lð§¥ 

We can also put updates on our website 

& Facebook. There is no charge for this service! 

Find out how to get involved 

visit www.scottishspca.org/events/halloween-pets-athome-collection 


40 

busy bee outside Bridge of Weir Post Office by Cameron Milne 


bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir 


12 weeks and counting to Christmas!! 

Christmas! Please call into The Bridge to see our selection of Christmas Cards, 

Wrapping Paper Gift Bags and Tags, Money Wallets, Diaries and choice of 

colourful Notelets. 

Christmas Cards - As well as the usual relation cards, Greetings from Bridge 

of Weir Cards and Traidcraft cards we are selling two charity Christmas cards 

commissioned by The Bridge - “Morning Light” designed by Alison Bannerman, 

local artist and trustee of The Bridge, and “Christmas Post” which depicts an 

aptly named post box. Buying a pack of our charity cards is a great way to 

support the work of The Bridge. 

Calendar - Our annual Calendar again is a must buy. The stunning photographs 

taken by members of the Paisley Colour Photographic Club truly showcase our 

village and surrounding area - a great gift for yourself, family and friends. 

Post Office - Donald, Anne and Stuart will be delighted to serve you. To avoid 

disappointment, please call in to check the latest posting dates for your overseas 

cards and parcels. Children at university or travelling abroad? - never let them run 

out of money. Sending a Moneygram is an effi cient and secure way of ensuring 

they remain solvent. Please ask for details. 

Post Offi ce staff and volunteers look forward to welcoming you in the run up to 

Christmas. 

Cafe - After browsing, enjoy a cup of coffee in the café and take time to appreciate 

the regularly changing art work on display. 

The Bridge – Your Community Centre, Shop and Post Office 


The Bridge of Weir shopping centre car park continues to 

be a problem, it has been suggested that we should adopt 

the Inverclyde clock disc system, and others have suggested 

resident permits with restricted parking of two or three hours. 

I welcome local feedback about this. 

Parking is problematic in Langbank also. The re-opening 

of Coast restaurant seems popular; add commuters plus 

bowling events to make for diffi culty getting along Main Road, 

and I sympathise with residents who have to park on the road 

here. There is discussion as to utilising the space between 

Main Road and the A8 for additional parking spaces. I 

welcome your thoughts on this. 

Did you know that in Renfrewshire a road surface defect becomes a pothole if it 

is 40mm deep and the location of the defect is deemed unsafe to the road user? 

There are issues for vehicles with large wheels fi tted as the tyre wall may only be 

35mm deep leaving them vulnerable to damage on our roads. Interestingly, there 

is no regulation or single defi nition of what constitutes a pothole and Renfrewshire 

Council are in line with the majority in using 40mm as their threshold. Should the 

defi nition to be changed locally? 

Paisley’s bid to become City of Culture should increase tourism and with it many 

new jobs and some volunteer work. Empty properties may become new shops 

and grant funding should come for a number of projects in the Paisley area. The 

villages have a lot of history too that tourists may be interested in. 

Please note my revised surgery details: Langbank Parish Church Hall - 1st Monday of 

every month (6.30pm), Bridge of Weir Primary School - 2nd Monday of every month 

(6.30pm), Bishopton Community Library - 3rd Monday of every month (6.30pm) 

I can be contacted by phone on 0300-300-1291 or by email to cllr.james.maclaren@ 

renfrewshire.gov.uk . Check out my Facebook page for more information and articles 

www.facebook.com/councillormaclaren 

Working with you and improving our local area. Please feel free to contact me with 

any of your concerns, and I am happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient time. 


Bridge of Weir SWI 

Our fi rst meeting of the new session 

will be on Thursday 5th October. We are 

looking forward to a talk and presentation about 

Barshaw House in Paisley and the role it played 

in the First World War. 

Our meetings also include a time for refreshments 

and the chance to meet new and old friends. We 

meet in the British Legion Hall at 7.15 pm for 

7.30pm. New members and visitors will be made 

very welcome. 


ROAR Information Day 

Join us at the Pirie on Tuesday 31st October. 

ROAR - Connections for Life is a locally based organisation providing a variety of activities and services which 

enable older adults to make the most of their lives. The options available include digital classes, gentle exercise 

sessions, health and well being clubs, befriending, foot care and fi lms. There are also opportunities for volunteering. 

To fi nd out more please visit us at the Pirie Information Centre Freeland Church from 10am to noon on 31st 

October. Anne Marie Cullen from ROAR will be happy to tell you more about all that is available and details of 

venues and eligibility. Come along if you wish to fi nd out more for yourself or for someone else you think may be 

interested. 

We will be serving tea and coffee and hope to make you very welcome. 

Voice Of Hope 

2 Major Events to note in your 

diary! In Langbank Village Hall 

20th October 

Light & Life Fayre 

8th December 

Christmas Special 

For further information 

please contact 

Angus or Anita McAulay 

01475 540700. 




Well it’s been a whirlwind fi rst few months as your local 

Labour Councillor and my thanks yet again go to everyone 

who voted for me. As a local resident Elected Member it has 

been enlightening to hear the issues raised across the three 

villages and to get a good grasp of the challenges facing our 

communities. 

I have so far been out to meet most of the local Community 

Councils and tenants and residents associations in the area 

and have been interested to hear their views on a range of 

issues. I would encourage residents to get involved in these 

groups as far as they are able, particularly those with young 

families, so that all views of the community can be heard on 

matters such as planning, development, schools and other community issues. 

Whilst there is a vibrant online community with regards to these issues, the 

Community Councils offer a formal pathway for consultation on such issues. 

I have been representing the community on a number of issues, ranging from 

the restoration of pavements following works by Virgin Media, the ongoing works 

at Deafhillock Roundabout at Brookfi eld, overcrowding of schools and adoption 

of privately owned pavements and roads across the villages. On the latter, the 

Council has been willing to adopt where the existing owners bring the pavements 

and/or roads up to standard. A recent motion by Council stated willingness for the 

Council to assist owners in doing so through advice and signposting for funding, 

but ultimately the Council has made it clear to me that they will not directly fund 

improvements to privately owned areas due to budgetary constraints. On the 

Deafhillock roundabout, the new delays are due to the need to install water mains 

for the new houses being constructed. Why this wasn’t co-ordinated better by the 

Developer and the statutory bodies is of great concern to me and I have asked for 

assurances that further delays will not follow. 

I note with interest also that the Council has instigated “Team Up to Clean 

Up”, to encourage communities to get together and tidy up areas. Community 

involvement is of course admirable and should be encouraged, but I feel that 

the Council ought to have made it clear that they expected residents to do it 

themselves! 

On a fi nal note, I was relieved to see common sense prevail and the whole Council 

agree to protect the services currently offered by Capability Scotland at the West 

Lane Gardens and Whitehaugh centres, giving some security to service users 

and staff alike. Services such as these are vital lifelines to vulnerable people 

and I hope that a permanent solution can be found by the Health and Social Care 

Partnership Integrated Joint Board. 

I currently offer surgeries every third Saturday of the month, at Cargill Hall in Bridge 

of Weir and the Community Library in Bishopton. In addition, I’m happy to meet at a 

mutually agreeable time and place. Keep an eye on my Facebook page for updates 

also. 

Food Bank - 

Urgently Needed 

in October 

Renfrewshire Food Bank donation 

bins in CO-OP STORES – 

KILBARCHAN, HOUSTON, BRIDGE 

OF WEIR and BISHOPTON. 

*CEREAL* 

*SOUP* 

*TINNED FRUIT* 

*TEA* 

*COFFEE* 

*TAMPONS & SANITARY TOWELS* 

Many thanks for your kindness – 

Renfrewshire Food Bank 


Bridge of Weir 

Lace Group 

Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets 

fortnightly on Tuesday mornings 

(10 am - 12 noon) during the winter 

months. If you’d like to try lacemaking 

we can provide materials & tuition. 

For further details phone (01505) 

613967. 


Senior Citizens Club 

We meet at Cargill Hall every 2nd 

and 4th Wednesday 7 - 9.15pm. 

Subscriptions are only £6 per year 

and £1 each week pays for your tea 

and biscuits. Entertainment provided. 

Previous entertainers include a male 

voice choir & live music. Contact Sheila 

Patterson for further information on 

01505 690521. 



Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents 

Association 

41 

The fi rst TARA meeting after the summer break was well attended, and our 

thanks go to Cllr. Natalie Don, Housing Offi cer Chris Smart and the Police for their 

attendance. 

The Police report for the last two months showed there were nine crimes 

committed within the village. Included amongst these was the attempted theft of 

a trailer, the theft of the back and front number plates off a vehicle, a breach of 

the peace and three road traffi c offences. 

While TARA has had a break from meetings during the summer, it has still been 

active around the village working with local Councillors and Renfrewshire Council 

to try and get the improvements in services which the village needs. 

One of the areas where TARA has been active is by having direct talks with 

Renfrewshire Council regarding Houston Road Park. Discussions have been 

around the repair of the zip slide, the replacement of the big swings, and the 

general upkeep of the park. The zip slide has now been replaced, although it 

took much longer than was anticipated. TARA has been informed by Community 

Resources that the procurement process for the replacement of the big swings 

is now taking place. 

A number of issues have also been taken forward by our local Councillors, around 

pavements, fencing, steps, overgrown foliage and road signage. 

Livery Walk car park is currently being monitored by Renfrewshire Council in 

an attempt to get to the bottom of the congestion ensuing there, and there are 

currently patrols by the Wardens Service regularly in the vicinity. 

The drop curb at the top of Lintwhite Crescent is regularly being obstructed by 

inconsiderate drivers parking their vehicles across it. This facility is intended to be 

used by disability scooters, etc. Please let it be left accessible for this. 

With the nights drawing in, it’s another time to remind people to cut back their 

trees around street lighting around the village. If you’re a tenant report any 

offending foliage to your landlord, and if you’re a house owner check and cut 

back any foliage on or emanating from your land. 

The next meeting of Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association is on 

Tuesday 17th October in the Pirie Centre, Freeland Church at 7.30pm. So if you 

got an issue within the village why not come along and air your views. 


British Legion Bridge of Weir 

Shortly Poppyscotland’s annual collection will be upon us. The poppy symbol has 

always had a dual purpose. It is both a national symbol of Remembrance and a 

means to raise vital funds for our Armed Forces community. 

The Royal British Legion Scotland’s Bridge of Weir Branch will be placing 

collection tins in various premises throughout the Village and sales of poppies 

and Poppyscotland’s merchandise will be on sale from the front door of the Legion 

Club on the mornings preceding Remembrance Sunday. 

We are all inspired by those who have gone before 

us so please support the appeal. 

Club News: MUSIC EVENING 

A date for your diary an evening of live easy 

listening music provided by Pete West on 

Saturday 21st October from 8 till late cost £5 

come and dance the night away visitors welcome. 

Annual memberships are now due, new members are welcome. It’s a perfect 

time to consider joining by being a member; as well having use of our excellent 

club facilities you will help the Legion Scotland charity to support veterans through 

comradeship befriending and much more. 

As part of your membership package you receive discounts with Glenton Holidays 

as well as access to Legion Scotland Branches and Clubs across the country. 

For more information talk to us on 01505 613530. 

bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

ishopton, langbank & bridge of weir 

42 


Langbank WI 

Thursday, 19th October 

at 7.30pm in the Village Centre 

Fire Safety Talk (Open Evening) 

Competitions: Wheaten Scone x 3 

Pin cushion, any craft 

Commemorative Mug 



Singing for 

Wellbeing 

A fun, no-pressure choir singing feelgood 

songs every Tuesday from 6pm 

- 7.15pm and Fridays at 2pm - 3.15pm 

in the Bishopton Community Centre. 

The Team Up to Clean Up campaign has now launched, with 

the Council and communities working together to improve our 

towns and villages. 

The Council have committed to inspecting all 30,000 gullies 

across Renfrewshire, increasing street sweeping services and 

will be undertaking a full review of the roads infrastructure, 

removing and replacing redundant signage and other 

materials. There are many fantastic community groups within 

Renfrewshire and we want to empower and celebrate them. 

That is why numerous engagement sessions have been 

carried out across Renfrewshire, with both community groups 

and members of the public, to fi nd out what you think are 

the main issues in your area and what can be done to help with activities in your 

area. 

This is the beginning of the process of bringing our streets back to a high standard 

and we want everyone to be involved. 

Ward Issues 

Repairs to the wire fence running along Greenock Road, Bishopton will be carried 

out. Several improvements to the Bishopton cemetery will be carried out including 

refurbishment of public benches, replacement of damaged bins and repairs to 

various potholes. An inspection is being carried out in areas of Dargavel to fi nd 

the best area for provision of litter bins. 

Warden patrols in the Main Street car park, Bridge of Weir are ongoing. The 

misuse of disabled bays and parking out-with bays have been identifi ed and 

notices will soon be issued to drivers. The car park will continue to be monitored 

to address the issues faced by motorists. 

The situation with parking on Main Road, Langbank is still being monitored. 

If you would like more information on any of the above or have an issue you would 

like to discuss, please get in touch at cllr.natalie.don@renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Surgery Details: First Saturday of the month: The Bridge, Bridge of Weir – 10am, 

Bishopton Community Library – 11am , Langbank Parish Church - 12pm 



Bridge of Weir Community Council 

The Annual General Meeting of the Community Council will be held in the Cargill 

Hall on Tuesday 3rd October 2017. Sharon Marklow, Planning Development, 

Renfrewshire Council has agreed to address this meeting where she will discuss 

planning and other issues of concern. 

An update on the next Local Development Plan. 

Reasons for the extended traffi c disruption and the possibility of scheduling 

works that minimises future disruption when the work is started on the slip road 

at Deafhillock roundabout. 

The closure of Clevans Road has now extended beyond 20 weeks and is causing 

various access problems to outlying farms and residents of Barnbeth Cottages. 

She will be asked why the closure is necessary over such a lengthy period. 

Parking is a particular problem in the village. The shopper’s car park at Livery 

Walk is bursting at the seams, as is Freeland Church car park alternative. Does 

Renfrewshire Council have any plans or ideas on how to alleviate this. 

We will also ask for an update on the Bull’s Garage planning application. 

At the September meeting of the Community Council our planning convener 

reported on planning issues covering the summer period including the recent site 

inspections at Whitelint Gate and Land adjacent to Gryffe Castle. These sites are 

the subject of housing and retail proposals which were refused by Renfrewshire 

Council. The developers have appealed the decisions to refuse and these appeals 

are now being considered by the Scottish Governments Department of Planning 

and Environmental Appeals (DPEA). A fi nal decision is expected in November. 

Other planning issues included the refusal of Cala Homes proposals at 

Lawmarnock Road which has been confi rmed by DPEA. 

A planning application to develop Bull’s garage site has been lodged with 

Renfrewshire Council. This application is for a mixed use development comprising 

a residential care home, retail unit and a food and drink unit with associated car 

parking. Details can be found on Renfrewshire Council’s web site under planning 

search using the application number 17/0490/PP. 

We have been informed of an Application for a POAN to Inverclyde Council by 

Gladman’s for a site at the Knapps / North Denniston. 

Community Police Offi cers Steven Reid and Eilidh O’Hanlon reported 15 crimes 

since the 6th of June, 6 of these crimes of these have been detected. 

The Police are aware of speeding vehicles on Kilbarchan Road and are monitoring 

the situation and taking action. 

A complaint was raised by a member of the Community Council that a mobile 

scooter has to be lifted onto the road at the junction of Main Street and Lintwhite 

Crescent due to cars parked on the pavement. The Police said this was a matter 

for the Traffi c Wardens unless the vehicles are causing an obstruction, however 

this must be reported at the time. Councillor MacLaren has asked for double 

yellow lines at this location. 

Our Renfrewshire Councillors reported various matters to the meeting which 

included Wardens monitoring Livery Walk Car Park, Street lighting lampposts 

damaged or missing, Deafhillock Roundabout where Offi cers are working with the 

developers to reduce delays, Zip Slide on Houston Road Park due to be repaired 

by 11th September, toys damaged during works to the Cargill Hall, footpath 

overgrowth on lane behind Cargill Hall to be cut back, hole in fence at River Gryffe 

on Main Street Offi cers are investigating ownership, Kiosk footpath residents 

lettered regarding overgrowth, Team up to Clean Up - Community Council invited 

to the event in Johnstone Town Hall on 13th September, further improvements 

at Houston Road Park, and bushes on pavement between Bridge of Weir and 

Brookfi eld being investigated. 

The Councillors were requested to add Carruth Road and Glendenten Road on to 

the next programmed resurfacing works. 

The Project and Fundraising Convener announced that the Community Council 

were delighted to receive a grant from Awards for All for £10,000 for the exercise 

equipment to be placed in Ranfurly Park, tendering bids are in progress and 

equipment due to be in place by October. 

Additional Christmas tree lights have been purchased as part of the grant funding 

received from Renfrewshire Council’s Local Area Committee. 

The next meeting of the Community Council is the Annual General Meeting 

followed by an Ordinary Meeting and will be held on Tuesday 3rd October at 7pm 

in the Cargill Hall. 



4th October: 7.30pm at The Bridge, Bridge of Weir. Guest speaker is renowned 

textile artist and designer, Malcolm Lochead, on “Sewing the Senses’. Members 

and visitors welcome! 

18th October: 2.30pm in Freelands Church, Bridge of Weir . Guest Speaker 

Jane Currie on “Stumpwork, from Charles I to Picasso”. Members and visitors 

welcome! 



kilmacolm & quarriers 

Coffee Morning & Christmas Fayre 

Saturday 11th November - Kidston Hall 10am-12noon 

Friends of Ardgowan Hospice would like thank all those who 

contributed to our recent collection we raised £2842. We look forward 

to welcoming you at our Annual Coffee Morning. Donations of baking, 

jams/marmalade and chutney will be most welcome.Kidston Hall will 

be open from 2-4pm on Friday 10th November for your donations. 


Kilmacolm Art Class 

The class resumes on Thursday 5th October and runs until March 

next year in St Fillans Church Hall. There is a Morning and afternoon 

session. The class is open to artists of all abilities as there is a tutor 

in attendance There are a few places available, so if you would like 

join this friendly and enthusiastic class to develop your talents contact 

Janice Sinclair, secretary, for more info: 01505 873141 


Kilmacolm Civic Trust 

People Power! 

Thank you for your positive feedback on the Trust’s response to Inverclyde 

Council’s Main Issues Report. Of course we’ll keep you posted on the next stages, 

when no doubt we’ll have to continue to defend our Green Belt. 

We have also established links with the new ‘Kilmacolm Residents’ Association’ 

who were so successful in raising the profi le of the debate and ensuring more 

residents made responses to the Main Issues Report. We share a good deal of 

common ground and we will be consulting with KRA over the next stage, when 

the Proposed Plan is published next March. 

During July, and in common with many residents, the Executive Committee were 

appalled by the biomass project and the fl agrant planning violations. We engaged 

directly and robustly with Inverclyde Planning to protest on members’ behalf. 

You may have been irritated 

by the ‘Snack Bar’ sign 

that appeared on Port 

Glasgow Road, whilst others 

have noted the ugly grey 

box housing Virgin media 

equipment on Lochwinnoch 

Road diagonally opposite 

Whitelea Road. We have 

been assured by Inverclyde 

Planning that they will enforce 

regulations by obliging the 

owners to remove/paint the 

offending items, so watch 

these spaces! 

Autumn Talk 

Thursday 12th October, 

7.30pm, Cargill Centre 

We look forward to seeing 

you at Graham Roxburgh’s 

talk, “Building the Dream” 

about how his vision brought 

the ‘House for an Art Lover’ 

to its glorious completion in 

Bellahouston Park, Glasgow. 

Was your house built between 1870 & 1920? 

Over recent months one of our members, 

and a former Chairman of KCT (1983-85), 

Professor Frank A Walker has been compiling 

a data base of information on all (most) 

houses built in Kilmacolm between 1870 

and 1920. This has entailed research in 

Building Authority records, censuses, etc., 

and with individual residents. To date almost 

400 houses have been logged on. Inevitably, 

however, much information remains elusive. 

If you are an owner of a Kilmacolm house 

built in the 1870-1920 period and would like 

to assist in this research, Professor Walker 

would be grateful for your help, specifi cally in 

terms of this information: 

It is envisaged that this Inventory of Kilmacolm 

Houses will in due course be made available 

online. 

1. current name of your house 

2. address of your house 

3. previous name(s) of your house 

4. date of feu contract / building 

5. fi rst owner 

6. architect / builder 

7. any other point of interest 

If you are able to respond to any or all of these 

headings, please contact Professor Walker at 

frankarneilw@gmail.com 


Kilmacolm Responds – in Style! 

43 

Barely 2 weeks from a Proposal of Planning Application to build houses at Knapps and 

North Denniston, almost 600 people squeezed into St Columba’s Church Hall for a briefi ng 

by representatives from Kilmacolm’s Community Council, Civic Trust and Residents 

Association, and with no more space in the Hall a further 50 had to be turned away on 

the night. Our Westminster MP, Ronnie Cowan urged everyone to respond, and provided 

strong moral support for the community. 

Gladman Developments are a specialist planning company, who proudly boast their 

success in achieving planning approval for Greenbelt and other sensitive sites. We 

have already seen that they are prepared to use questionable information regarding the 

schools and doctors in the village, and residents attending their public exhibition on 19th 

September were horrifi ed by the skewed feedback form, which suggests you have to select 

one of three “options”. Residents are entitled to dismiss all of them on whatever grounds 

they feel appropriate, whether it’s the principle of the Greenbelt, the strain on traffi c, water, 

medical provision, parking, the environment, or any other issue that concerns you. 

We encourage anyone concerned by this proposed development to make their comments 

on the Gladman Developments website www.your-views.co.uk/kilmacolm, or email 

Gladman directly at views@your-views.co.uk. Or write to 

Gladman Scotland, 2 Eliburn Offi ce Park, Eliburn, Livingston, 

West Lothian EH54 6GR. 

We would also appreciate if you could send a copy of 

your feedback to the Kilmacolm Greenbelt Alliance. 

The deadline is 31st October 2017, so get typing! 

See page 12 for more details. 

Keep abreast of this story by continuing 

to read the Advertizer, and by emailing 

kilmacolmgreenbeltalliance@gmail.com for updates. 

If you have any skills or resources, we’d really 

appreciate hearing from you. 




44 


I attended the public meeting called by the Kilmacolm 

Greenbelt Alliance on 14th September to listen to the views 

of my constituents on the proposed housing developments 

at the Knapps and North Denniston. Given the huge turnout 

and the strong feelings expressed on the night it is clear that 

the developers will have a battle on their hands if they decide 

to proceed with a formal planning application. 

I was disappointed to hear that statements from Gladman 

Properties had raised concerns among parents about the 

future of Kilmacolm Primary School. Our Provost, Martin 

Brennan, in his capacity as Vice-Convener of the Education 

and Communities Committee, has written to both parents and 

Gladman to make it clear that there is no threat of Kilmacolm 

Primary closing. It will continue to educate the children of Kilmacolm and 

Quarrier’s Village for many generations to come. Indeed the Council’s Education 

and Communities Committee last month discussed a proposal to expand nursery 

provision at KPS to meet the Government’s plan to increase the entitlement to 

early learning and childcare from 600 hours to 1,140 hours per year, the termtime 

equivalent of 30 hours per week. 

The Deputy First Minister, John Swinney MSP, will be visiting Kilmacolm Primary 

School on 2nd October to hear about the school’s successful ‘Reading Challenge’ 

initiative. This visit arose from Mr Swinney’s discussions with a group of pupils 

from KPS when they sang at the Scottish Parliament last session. 

I was pleased to be the offi cial starter at the Kilmacolm Running Festival on 10th 

September. Despite the inclement weather nearly 500 runners participated in 

the three races, with many others lending support. Well done to all who took part 

and to Inverclyde Leisure for organising another successful event. 

I have one surgery this month in Kilmacolm Community Centre from 6pm to 7pm on Tuesday 

10th October. You can contact me directly to discuss any matters that are of concern to 

you by telephone on 01475 712020 (during offi ce hours) or by email to Stephen.McCabe@ 

inverclyde.gov.uk. Alternatively you can write to me at 10 Victoria Gardens, Kilmacolm 

PA13 4HL. You can keep up to date with my work as a Councillor by visiting my blog: http:// 

councillorstephenmccabe.blogspot.com/ and follow me on Twitter @CllrSMcCabe. 


The Bonfi re and Fireworks at Knapps, by kind permission 

of Lord McLay and Robert Baxter, will be on Saturday 4th 

November. This is my 10th running of the event and the 50th 

since Councillors Alex and Helen Calvert started it. Helen will 

have the honour of lighting the bonfi re and because of the 

occasion Lawrie Campbell and his team will have a few extra 

squibs to play with. The Police have asked that people do 

not stand on the pavement opposite and in the lane up the 

side past Mrs Mills house. We also need to take as much 

monies at the gate as the event is increasingly expensive to 

run. Adults £3 youngsters £2 at the gate. Because of the 

generosity of Andrew Malcolm and Michael Tracey, we do not 

need wood. Any queries to myself at the numbers below. 

The Pre Application Notice Proposal for residential development at Knapps and 

North Dennistoun was registered on 14th September with Inverclyde Council by 

Gladman’s. I attended a public meeting, in this regard, at St Columba’s Church 

Hall, which certainly had at least 400 attendees. There will be more applications 

for housing developments around the village. The Council has been good at 

protecting the green belt around the village. A key exception was Offi cers support 

for an extension to St Columba’s School and a relief car park in the pony fi eld in 

Lochwinnoch Road. This I did support because of the much needed long term 

parking and the economic benefi ts of the school to the village. 

I chair the Operations Committee, with responsibility for bus, subway and 

ferry, at Strathclyde Partnership for Transport. The SPT Board has Councillor 

representation from 12 West of Scotland Councils. Glasgow Subway is 

going through a massive modernisation programme and is one of the largest 

engineering projects in Scotland. Bus subsidy in the West of Scotland is £5 per 

head of population, in comparison, London is £100 and Manchester is £25. SPT 

subsidises many rural and socially necessary bus routes. In Kilmacolm the bus to 

Johnstone Station and evening and weekend to Greenock. In general Inverclyde 

is well served by McGill’s buses. 

I am attending the presentation of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary service to 

St Columba’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Expedition Volunteers. I am sure I will know 

several from the bronze expedition camping at Dykefoot. The volunteers were 

usually wetter and colder than the participants, having stood for hours waiting on 

them appearing over Corlic Hill. 

My surgery is October 21st at the Cargill 10am - 11am and I can be contacted at david. 

wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk and 01475 741969 and 712727 and 07766 992294. 


Hall to Hire - 

Kilmacolm Guide Hut 

A great venue with easy access near to 

the village centre. Newly refurbished 

main hall, with additional kitchen facilities 

and outdoor area. Perfect for children’s 

parties, weekly classes and one off special 

occasions. Anyone wanting to hire the 

Guide Hut please contact Roz on 07584 

359007. 

Bridge For Beginners 


Do You Want To Learn To Play Bridge?? Classes held on 

Tuesday evenings commencing Tuesday 5th September 

7pm – 9pm in the Kilmacolm Community Centre. This class 

is suitable for beginners and those with a little experience in 

the game. Further details telephone 01505 872345. 



Kilmacolm 

Surgeries 

On the last Monday 

of every month PC 

Jamieson, the local neighbourhood 

offi cer, will hold a surgery in 

the Community Centre between 

10.30 - 11.30 am. Please pop in 

and see him if you want to share 

any concerns or need advice. 


Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christian Aid 

Annual Coffee Morning 

Kilmacolm and Quarriers Christian Aid Committee 

invite you to their Annual Coffee Morning, to be held 

in Kidston Hall, Kilmacolm on Saturday 7th October 

at 10am. Entrance £3. If you can contribute to the Stalls - Homebaking, New 

but unwanted Gifts, China and Glass, Paperback Books, or make a tray bake for 

serving at tables, please bring along any donations to Kidston Hall between 6 and 

7pm on Friday. Thank you, please support Christian Aid. 

Local Artist selected as a Finalist in 

Scottish Portrait Awards 2017 

Local artist, Moira McInally from Kilmacolm, has been selected as one of 30 

Fine Art fi nalists for the Scottish Portrait Awards 2017, which is to be held in the 

Scottish Arts Club, Edinburgh in November. 

One of the judges is the esteemed Scottish artist, John Byrne (who has recently 

completed a portrait of Billy Connolly, shown on BBC 1) Moira’s work is called, The 

Apprentice, and is a portrait of her son who is an apprentice with BAE Systems 

in Glasgow. 

It will be on display, along with the other fi nalists’ work within the Scottish Arts 

Club, 24 Rutland Square, Edinburgh from the 7th November until the 2nd of 

December (Tuesday - Saturday only). 

If you love Art, and want to see some of the amazing artistic talent Scotland has 

to offer, then this exhibition is a must-see! 


Renewal Status by FAIRTRADE for 

Kilmacolm and Quarriers 

We are very proud to announce that Kilmacolm and Quarriers 

have been given renewal status by FAIRTRADE following a 

concerted effort by local shops, businesses, public buildings. The 

certifi cate was fi rst gained in 2005, the needs of FAIRTRADE workers are as 

valid now as they were twelve years ago. Please help, ask for FAIRTRADE in cafes, 

restaurants, think which brand to support when shopping, make a difference at 

ground level. 



45 

Kilmacolm Heritage Centre Co. 

A new Kilmacolm Heritage Gallery is shortly being opened on the first floor of the 

Community Centre, which highlights the rich history of Kilmacolm Parish and worthy 

individuals from within it, who have made a significant contribution to Scottish life. 

The company requires to raise funds to allow Interpretation Panels and other material 

to be attractively displayed in the new gallery. 

Community Appeal 

£20,000 

This new centre will be a major attraction to residents, tourists and “historic” 

audiences. It should also bring business benefits to the community. The directors 

believe that the new Heritage Centre will benefit the community from a heightened 

sense of identity, unity and pride. 

Please give generously, making cheques payable to:- Kilmacolm Heritage Centre Co. 

Edwin A. Fisher CA, Finance Director, Machrie House, Port Glasgow Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4QQ 

Painting by nine years old Michael Longford, 

St Columba’s Junior School of “Legion”. 


Outlook 

‘OUTLOOK’ is a social community group in Kilmacolm, 

that was created to welcome everyone, young and old, 

to come to share friendship and fellowship together. It 

is led by the Community Issues team of Kilmacolm Old 

Kirk. The group meets In Kidston Hall on 1st and 3rd 

Thursday afternoons monthly, from 2pm to 4pm. 

The programme includes invited Speakers, afternoon tea, items of community 

issues for discussion, dates for your diary, plus entertaining activities. 

PROGRAMME – October to December 2017 

5th October India 

Susan and Colin Houston - Travelogue / Photographs 

19th October Gentle Keep Fit with Grace 

Plus…Mary's Meals – Isobel 

2nd November Dickens Revisited 

Gerard McKeon - A Walk through Old City of London 

16th November 

Sole Solutions – Laura Kelly 

Vino 13: Drinks for Christmas – James Kelly. 

7th December With our Minister - Rev Peter McEnhill 

Plus, Christmas Tea followed by Carols at the Piano with Sandra 

The OUTLOOK team of Margaret Cook, Sandra Crawford, Andrea Hargreaves, 

Gordon McGibbon, Rae McPhee, Heather Mutch, Catriona Miller, Judy Adams 

and Jill Russell invite you to Come along, bring a friend, spread the word that 

OUTLOOK is for fellowship and friendship. 




Congratulations to everybody who took part and organised 

the Kilmacolm Running Festival. I was planning to 

participate but…...always next year though! 

I am pleased to see that the vegetation around the 30mph 

signs on the village has been cleared. I notifi ed the Council 

on the condition of the signs using the Inverclyde Council 

App which is available in Goole Play and iStore. I would 

recommend downloading the App and give it a try. 

As discussed in my last article, the process to prepare the 

next Local Development Plan from 2019 is ongoing. I note 

that sites identifi ed in the ‘Call for Sites’ exercise around 

Kilmacolm will be subject to habitat and ecological surveys 

as part of this process. In order to assist consideration of issues emerging 

from the proposed Plan a short life Members-Offi cers Working Group has been 

established. This group consists of 6 councillors, including myself, and will 

provide a sounding board for the emerging proposed Plan. 

Separate to the preparation of the next Local Development Plan, a Proposal of 

Application Notice has been submitted to Inverclyde Council with respect to the 

Knapps and North Denniston in Kilmacolm and a 12 week public consultation 

process began on the 31st of August. Following this Notice, if any planning 

application is made thereafter, it will be assessed in relation to the full range 

of material planning considerations, including the existing Local Development 

Plan and the emerging Local Development Plan, with recommendations being 

made to the Planning Board by offi cers of the Council. I have attended the public 

event by the Developer on 19th September and the earlier joint meeting held 

by Kilmacolm Community Council, Kilmacolm Civic Trust and the Kilmacolm 

Residents Association on 14th September. I will continue to engage with the 

Community, Developer and Council Offi cers so that I may come to an informed 

position on this matter, as I may be required to consider any planning application to 

follow, either through the planning board or at a meeting of Inverclyde Council. 

My next two formal surgeries will be 10am - 11am on 21st October (Kilmacolm 

Community Centre) and 7pm - 8pm on the 25th October (St Francis School, Port 

Glasgow). I will also be undertaking more informal ‘walking surgeries’ and these will 

be advertised through my Facebook page (@Ward1chriscurleySNP). You can contact 

me directly to discuss any matters by telephone on 07768 460073/01475 712370, 

by email to christopher.curley@inverclyde.gov.uk or by messaging me via my Facebook 

page. 



46 

Volunteers needed 

If you have a spare couple of hours a week and 

would like the opportunity to support a local 

cause, Ardgowan Hospice are in desperate need 

for volunteers within their retail shops, we have 

vacancies from sales assistant to clerical support, 

no experience is necessary as full training is 

provided. For more information contact Linda 

Kelly, Retail Development Manager, linda.kelly@ 

ardhosp.co.uk or 07919216353 


kilbarchan - howwood - lochwinnoch - elderslie 

Howwood 

Community 

Council 

Meetings of the Community Council 

are held on the second Tuesday of 

each month at 7.30pm in Howwood 

Village Hall. Please feel free to come 

along - all welcome. 

kilbarchan, howwood, lochwinnoch & elderslie 


One of the biggest issues that has faced us over the month 

has been the proposed closure of the Paisley and Johnstone 

day care centres by Capability Scotland. At the special 

Council meeting that was called to debate the concerns of all 

users and carers, I was pleased that my added amendment 

to the initial motion was accepted and the motion was 

carried without any further debate being necessary. All our 

Councillors will be monitoring the situation very closely in 

order to ensure that the fi nal outcome will be satisfactory to 

users and carers. 

The Lochwinnoch Elderly Forum proved, as usual, a very lively 

affair. Comment was made about the length of time that 

pathway restrictions at the junction of Calder Street and High Street was causing 

concern, with people having to walk in the road as tripping hazards made the 

temporary pathway unusable. At the same junction a blocked drain was spewing 

out very disgusting brown coloured fl uid which, I have been assured, will be 

addressed in the very near future. 

A very valid point was again raised about the lack of co-ordination between train 

times and the local buses that serve Lochwinnoch Station. The blame surely is 

with the bus company as the trains have strict timetables and more often than 

not, despite what you read in the media, run on time. It seems that when a train 

is due in or out the bus driver will not give any leeway on times whatsoever which 

can mean very vulnerable people having to make their own way home by foot, It is 

about time that Scot-rail and the bus company got together to sort this situation 

out once and for all. 

I have been assured that the roads inspector will ensure a full assessment of the 

pathway from the RSPB Lochwinnoch and Loch House to address the overgrown 

state of vegetation and take the action as necessary to improve the access along 

this route. 

The Johnstone Gala Day proved a great success on Sunday 27th August at 

Thomas Shanks Park. Many thanks must go to the gala team who put in a lot 

of hard graft which paid off in the end. The biggest issue to overcome was the 

amount of bureaucracy that had to be dealt with to set it all up in the fi rst place. 

Health and Safety, Risk Assessment, litter clearance etc. etc. These requirements 

being insisted upon by Renfrewshire Council. Yet after my complaints about the 

condition of the park with pot holes, puddles and broken glass everywhere, which 

is the responsibility of the Council, it seems to be a case of ‘do as I say not as 

I do!’ I understand that there is £250,000 available from the Parks Investment 

Programme for neighbourhood parks. It’s about time we used some of it to 

upgrade Thomas Shank Park which has so much potential. 

The Glasgow Airport Flight Path Fund Committee, of which I am a member, 

has allocated funds to a number of worthy causes this past year. A few of the 

recipients within our area are as follows: Howwood Wildlife and Woodlands 

£2,000, Johnstone High School PC £1,500, Renfrewshire Young Carers Project 

£5,000 and most recently Ride 63 Cycle Club (Lochwinnoch) £1,234. The Fund 

is open to apply to by any club, individual, Community Council or organisation 

looking for funding for a particular project. Every application is assessed on its 

merits so please apply now 

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 0300 300 1423 e-mail: cllr.bill.binks@renfrewshre.gov.uk 

Mob: 07976 239 881 

SURGERIES: 1st Monday each month HOWWOOD 6pm, 2nd Wednesday each month 

KILBARCHAN 6pm, 3rd Monday each month JOHNSTONE 6pm, 4th Wednesday each 

month LOCHWINNOCH 6pm. 


Knitting Bee 

Knuts4Knitting 

Meets fortnightly on a Tuesday 

from 7pm to 9pm at Knit Knax, 37 

High Street Johnstone, also weekly 

Thursday from 2pm to 4pm. 

Contact details: Pamela 07743 

156738 or email bknitting@hotmail. 

co.uk. 


Scottish Country 

Dance Classes 

Tuesdays in the McKillop Hall, 

Lochwinnoch at 7.30pm. 

We always have great fun and it's 

good exercise too! Phone Lorna Black 

01505 843048 for more info. 


I sit here contemplating what I should submit for an article 

in the Advertizer. One of the problems I have is that as there 

are four Councillors for the Ward, there is a good chance that 

you may end up reading the same information four times. On 

the other hand, you may not read anything, as we assume 

that someone else has written the article. If we do tell you 

anything in this column, the information will be at least two 

weeks old due to the lead time for articles. 

I have noticed, during my wandering around the Ward and 

listening to constituents, that there are a number of home 

occupiers who have allowed the trees and hedges in their 

gardens, to protrude over the footpaths. Add this to the 

motorists who choose to park on the footpaths and one fi nds the footpath to be 

impassable for wheelchairs and prams. 

Another issue about which I receive complaints, is the amount of dog fouling on 

footpaths and recreational areas. There is no excuse for not picking up after 

your dog. I was in Barshaw Park recently and observed a dog owner with two 

Border Terriers, on the lead, deposit on the grass where children play. The person 

concerned thought it quite acceptable to leave the waste and when challenged 

refused to remove said waste. 

We can all do our bit to improve our environment. Whether it be sweeping up the 

leaves and litter from the front of our homes, or communicating with elderly or 

infi rm neighbours to see if there is anything they need. 


Kilbarchan Habbies Art Class Art And 

Craft Fair 

Christmas is coming (Oh, yes 

it is !) With this in mind, now 

is the time to take advantage 

of the really unique, hand 

crafted gifts for sale at our 

Art and Craft Fair. We have 

a great selection of jewellery, 

cards, wood carvings, 

candles, textiles, paintings 

and more. 

Why fi ght your way through 

the crowds and struggle to fi nd a parking spot when you can fi nd something really 

different on your own doorstep ? Not only are the prices very competitive, but 

some stalls are offering a special 10% OFF on production of this advert . Please 

note that this only applies to stalls displaying the 10% off sign. Other stalls may 

have their own special offers. 

This is a great opportunity to get ahead with your Christmas shopping or just 

spend a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon and perhaps fi nd something special for 

yourself. 

You will fi nd us at The Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan on SATURDAY, 28th 

OCTOBER between 12noon and 4pm. We look forward to seeing you there. 


Kilbarchan 

During the month of October the 

group will have an evening about 

Brazil, the country chosen this year 

by the National Group. We shall fi nd 

out about the education and political 

systems, enjoy some food and also a 

quiz. In October we shall also have a 

discussion entitled “Women in Film”. 

We would be delighted to welcome new 

members, please phone 703786 for 

more information or see the website: 

www.nwr.org.uk 


Howwood W.I. 

Tuesday 17th October: 

Working as a JP by Mr Jim 

Hair 

Competition: Favourite Plate 

Hostesses: Jane Millar & Nan Steel 

Vote of Thanks: Nan Robertson 

Tonight a donation to Sandpiper Trust 

New members will be made very 

welcome. For further information 

please contact Irene MacTaggart on 

01505 704800. 



47 

Would you know what to do in an Emergency? 

♥ Every week in Scotland, 70 people suffer cardiac arrest. 

♥ More than 3,500 people per year in Scotland are treated by the 

Ambulance Service following a cardiac arrest. 

♥ Only one in 20 people will survive. 

♥ Without resuscitation, cardiac arrest is always fatal. 

♥ But, performing CPR could double that person’s chance of survival 

Heartstart courses are free of charge and it only takes two hours to learn the 

skills which may someday save a life: 

♥ Recovery position 

♥ CPR and using an Automated External Defi brillator (AED) 

♥ Heart Attack 

♥ Choking 

♥ Serious bleeding 

New venue for Howwood courses “The Boarding House” 

To learn the simple skills that save lives, contact Morag Thow on 07868 

752814 to book onto one of our courses: 

Tuesday October 10th 7 - 9pm The Boarding House Howwood 

Wednesday November 15th 7 - 9pm Masonic Lodge Lochwinnoch 

Tuesday 12th December 7 - 9pm The Boarding House Howwood 


Lochwinnoch Art Group 

This Group is always glad to welcome new members. We are not a class, as 

such, but sharing knowledge and ideas from the group as a whole does result in 

an improvement in performance. All abilities are urged to come along and give 

us a try. Hope to see you there....meetings restart on Monday 4th September 

from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in the Space Room in the McKillop Halls. For more 

information phone Lorna 01505 843048. 


Over the last month I attended a site visit in Howwood, at 

the triangle, with both council offi cers and members of 

Howwood Community Council to investigate the best position 

for a Christmas Tree for the village. This has been very 

frustrating for the village but I am pleased to have been able 

to persuade the Council to do its duty by Howwood residents. 

I have also met with residents in Bowfi eld Road who have had 

long standing issues with fl ooding and I am working to try and 

resolve this problem. 

I was the only ward Councillor to attend the DEPA hearing at 

Erskine and I went to support Kilbarchan Community Council 

in opposing the Branscroft development, Mr Bruce McFee 

and Mr Ken Ives spoke forcibly for the interests of the village and I sincerely hope 

our voices are listened to. The last Kilbarchan Community Council discussed the 

draft traffi c plans for the village at length and they are very much needed. 

I have been assisting residents at Lade Court in Lochwinnoch who are very 

concerned about the excessive growth of the large trees behind their properties, 

which are of such a size that they touch the roofs at Lade Court during storms 

and bad weather. While there is no right to light in Scotland I am working with 

residents and council offi cers to try and resolve this problem for the Lade Court 

residents. 

My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall 

at 7.30pm, and my advice surgery in Howwood is at 6.30pm on the 4th Wednesday of the 

month, and then in Lochwinnoch on the 4th Wednesday of the month in the McKillop at 

7.30pm, all excluding July and Christmas. But I am also always available to constituents 

who can call me on 07534 148224, tweet me on CllrAndy4Ward8 or e-mail me at cllr.andy. 

doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk. 


A special meeting of Renfrewshire Council was held on 30th 

August in response to the threatened closures of the day 

centres at West Lane Gardens Johnstone ,and Whitehaugh 

Paisley. At the meeting I moved that the learning disability 

service provided at these centres continue, as it is invaluable 

to some of our most vulnerable citizens, including those from 

Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch who attend these 

centres. This was agreed and it is now the responsibility of 

the council administration to ensure that action is taken to 

protect this service. 

As I write, Renfrewshire Council has launched a new initiative 

“Team Up to Clean Up” which aims to encourage local 

communities to clean up the streets which are affected by litter, dog fouling and 

fl y tipping. I attended a launch event at Johnstone Town Hall on 12th September, 

which involved a presentation by the council and was attended by community 

representatives from Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch, and which outlined 

what is expected of communities. 

Subsequently I have received a very mixed response to this initiative, primarily 

arising from the promise made by the new administration that improving the 

environment was its major priority. This commitment seems to have changed, 

and now council tax payers are expected to take the lead role. I acknowledge that 

in the local community indeed everyone has a signifi cant part to play in keeping 

our streets clean, and the community is indebted to those who work tirelessly in 

organising litter picks and take pride in their villages. 

However, the Council needs to take the lead role in providing the necessary 

resources to maintain a clean and safe environment, and enforce existing 

legislation by holding to account those who show no concern for their community 

whether through dog fouling, litter or fl y tipping . 

It is almost a year since the new LED street lighting was installed across 

Renfrewshire. I have received a number of reports in Kilbarchan and Howwood 

where the new lights have been installed adjacent to trees, with the result that 

the trees have overgrown to the extent where they are now obscuring the lighting. 

I have asked the council to take the necessary action to rectify this problem. 

I am also aware of diffi culty experienced by some villagers in getting through to 

the customer contact centre of Renfrewshire Council to register complaints and 

concerns. Constituents also report a failure of the council to return phone calls 

and respond to emails. There is nothing worse than being effectively ignored and 

having raised these issues. I will keep an eye on this matter with the expectation 

of improvement in customer service. 

My surgeries are on the fi rst Saturday of every month except January and July at 

9am in the McKillop Institute Lochwinnoch, 10am in Howwood Village Hall and 11am 

in the Steeple Hall Kilbarchan. Meantime please contact me at cllr.derek.bibby@ 

renfrewshire.gov.uk or phone 0300 300 1274 or 07534 156007. 




48 


The Kilbarchan Smile 

Big Autumn Clear up 

Sunday 29th October taking place from 2pm-4pm 

Meet at the Ewing Street car parking area 

opposite Bog Park. 

Kilbarchan Smile was set up to help 

make improvements to the village 

with the support and involvement 

of the community. To this end the 

group is organising the “Kilbarchan 

Smile Big Autumn Clear Up” for 

Sunday 29th October taking place 

from 2pm - 4pm. Volunteers 

(Smilers) are being asked to meet 

at the Ewing Street car parking 

area opposite Bog Park. The event 

will support Renfrewshire’s new 

‘Team Up to Clean Up’ campaign and equipment including litter pickers, hi viz 

vests, bags, bag hoops and gloves will be provided as part of this. If you want to 

make a difference to the village please come along and “Do Your Bit” if you can 

(we are happy for volunteers to pick their own area for attention) – as they say 

many hands make light work! We usually provide some well-earned treats and 

giveaways at the end of the day! 

For more information and to get involved in either the Gateway Garden or other 

Kilbarchan Smile activities email hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group 

Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook. 


Guiding Lights 

The Kilbarchan Smile Gateway 

Garden team is delighted to 

announce that the Kilbarchan 

Guides and Trefoil Guild have 

adopted a growing space each. 

Francesca Scott introduced the 

guides group to their plot and the 

rest of the garden and despite a 

dark wet evening they had great 

fun harvesting potatoes. A number 

of families have also now adopted a growing space each too but more volunteers 

are still needed to help ensure the continued access and use of the garden. Just 

a few hours a month makes all the difference – we have made such a difference 

to what was a real eyesore at the entrance to our lovely conservation village, let’s 

make sure all the efforts so far are sustained into the future. If you are interested 

in making a positive difference to your village please do get in touch, have fun 

and make new friends. 


Messy Church 

Our second Messy Church of this 

session will meet in Kilbarchan Parish 

Church halls on Saturday 21st October 

from 4pm to 6pm. All children, with 

an adult, will be made most welcome. 

Everyone joins in and by the time 

we sit down to eat together new 

friendships will have been made, or 

old ones renewed. Look out for more 

details on posters, Facebook and by 

e-mail. 


Elderslie Kirk Guild 

We meet on Wednesday 11th and 25th 

October from 7.30pm to 9pm in the 

Church Hall. All Welcome. For More 

information call 01505 341 206. 

Join us on Saturday 4th November 

for a Coffee Morning in 

the Church Hall from 

10am - 12 noon. 

£3 entry with 

cake & candy 

stall. 



FAB News for the Old Library Centre 

We are starting a new exercise class for over 60’s FABS which stands for Flexibility, 

Aerobic, Balance, and Strength. 

It is an easy to follow exercise class for both men and women. Everyone is 

welcome – it can help you feel fi t for life. 

Get your vitality back – come to a Move it or Lose it! class. 

This will be held on a Thursday afternoon from 2.30pm – 3.30pm, starting on 

21st September. The cost will be £4 per class or £30 for 10 classes. However 

the fi rst class will be free so come and try it and see how you get on. Telephone 

the Old Library Centre on 01505 706070 for further information and to put your 

name down or contact Fiona on07811 766672. 

Johnstone Credit Union are having a new collection point in the Old Library Centre 

on Wednesday mornings. They will be having a launch event on Wednesday 4th 

October when refreshments will be provided. Come along and fi nd out about 

joining and the services provided. For more information contact Johnstone Credit 

Union on 01505 327148. 

We have a new group starting and if you are interested in keeping you fl uency in 

French you might like to join the conversation in the centre in Thursday mornings. 

This meeting will be a self governing group. The cost will be £1.50 which will 

cover the cost of a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit if available. 

Other classes and groups in The Old Library Centre are as follows:- 

• Monday: morning Pilates 

• Tuesday: afternoon Craft Group (every 2nd week) 

• Wednesday: morning Yoga, morning Credit Union, afternoon Pilates, 

evening Yoga 

• Thursday: morning Conversational French, morning “1st Love Music” – 

music and movement for babies and toddlers, afternoon FABS exercise 

class 

• Friday: afternoon Bridge Club 

If you are interested in any of the groups mentioned above please contact The Old 

Library Centre to register your interest and to get more details of the group times. 

The Yoga classes are full at present. 

Tel 01505 706070 or email - kipcokil@hotmail.com 


Early Bird Christmas Gift and Craft Fayres 

Sunday 5th November, Kilbarchan Guide Centre, High 

Barholm, Kilbarchan: 1pm to 4pm. 

Beat the rush and start your Christmas shopping 

early!! There will be a variety of stalls from local 

crafters to suit your every need. Stallholders 

include Annabelle’s Christmas Decorations, 

Sweets and Knits, Threepwood Fayre, BrawBricht 

Jewellery, Mandy’s Rainbow gGlass, All Things Nice 

Jams and Pickles and many more. Browse our 21 

stalls and stop for a coffee and a chat with friends. All 

funds raised will go towards World Challenge India 2019. 

Check out our facebook page ‘Kilbarchan Craft Fayres’ for further information. 

Entry includes Tea and Coffee: Adults £1.50 Children £0.50 


Kilbarchan Parish Church 

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal ~ Once again, we shall be 

supporting this very worthwhile charity and forms are now 

available by phoning 703786. The fi lled boxes should be 

returned at the beginning of November to be dedicated on 

Sunday 5th, prior to dispatch to the recipients in Eastern 

Europe in time for Christmas. 

Kilbarchan Parish Church Drama Group ~ Rehearsals are now underway for 

the November production “Murder at the Asylum”, a comedy/mystery to be 

performed on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 23rd - 25th November in the Parish 

Church Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available from Bobbins by late October, 

price £8, school-age £5. 

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club ~ The club takes place on Mondays from 

9.15am -11.30am in the Church Hall, when we are delighted to welcome tots 

from birth-3 years, along with their accompanying adults. 

There is a huge variety of toys and bouncy castle for the 

tots and enjoyable company with tea/coffee for the adults. 

The cost remains £1 for adults. The Hallowe’en Party is 

on 30th October from 9.45am - 11.15am, when the tots 

will be in fancy dress costumes. 



H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston 

(Houston Old School Trust) 

What’s on October 2017 

Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of School 

01505 615438 

Coffee Shop: - Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm Sat, 

9am-4pm 

MONDAY 

Sewing Group (Weekly) 10am–12noon 

Yoga (Weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw 

01505 229112 

Diaporama 9 th 7.30pm 

Young Farmers 9 th , 16th 7.30pm 

H.O.S.T. AGM 9 th 7.30pm 

TUESDAY 

Paint Pot Tots (Weekly excl 17 th ) 10am 

Dawn Campbell 07789 262350 

Galaxy, Musical Theatre (Weekly excl 

17 th ) 4pm - 7pm 

Yoga (Weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson 

01505 613690 

Lirico Languages (Weekly) 7pm– 

8.30pm (Fiona 01505 614306) 

Councillor Surgery 3 rd 6.45pm – 

7.30pm 

WEDNESDAY 

Big Kids Little Learners (Excl 18 th ) 

10am – 11am Janine Neil 07870 

697010 

Galaxy (Excl 18 th ) 4pm – 7pm 

Gryffe Melody Makers 4 th & 18 th 7pm 

Community Council 18 th 7.30pm 

Gryffe Camera Club, (Weekly) 7.30pm 

Booking enquiries to: 

Ian Simpson 01505 612203 Bill Haddow 01505 690693 

Stewart Scally 01505 674277 

hostbooking@outlook.com or The Coffee Shop 

houston, crosslee & brookfield 

Carrick Nights 2017/18 

Carrick Centre, Main Street, Houston 

The new season of Carrick Nights commences on Friday 6th October at 8pm 

and features the well kent singer and BBC presenter Jamie Macdougall’s and his 

Bardic Trio. The season continues on Saturday 4th November with The Vocalise 

Trio, Alison MacNeill and Sacha Savaroni on Friday 2nd February 2018 and 

Barochan Quartet and Maria Wilson and accompanist on Friday 2nd March. 

Tickets are £12 or Concert Series tickets discounted to £36. Concessions for 

children and students all thanks to fi nancial assistance from Enterprise Music 

Scotland. 

Pre concert Meals are available in the Carrick Cafe but prior booking is necessary. 

For tickets or further information call 01505 229597 or email thecarrickcentre@ 

gmail.com 


Crafty Friends 

Crafty Hobbies is what we do 

Come and join our Crafty crew 

Come and learn some Crafty makes 

Followed by some tea and cakes 

We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursdays 

in the month at 7.30pm in the Carrick 

Centre Houston. No previous craft 

experience necessary. We are just 

a group of ladies who enjoy making 

things! Contact - Lorna Cairns 612844 

or Shirley White 610721. First meeting 

is Thursday 7th September. 

THURSDAY 

Gryffe Quilting Group (5 th , 12 th , 19 th , 

26 th ) 1.15pm - 3.15pm (19 th 10am ) 

Primary Colours (Weekly excl 19 th ) 

3.30pm – 4.30pm 

Crafty Friends 5 th , 19 th 7.30pm 

Folk Club (weekly) 8pm iaintdawson@ 

gmail.com 07786 078952 

Galaxy (Weekly excl 19 th ) 3.30pm– 7pm 

FRIDAY 

Yoga (Weekly) 10.30am M/s Lawson 

01505 613690 

Big Kids Little Learners (Excl 20 th ) 1pm 

– 2pm Janine Neil 07870 697010 

Galaxy Dancing (Weekly Excl 20 th ) 

3.30pm - 7pm 

Gavin Newlands M.P. Surgery 13 th 

12.30pm – 1.30pm 

Young Farmers 13 th (Whist Drive) 

7.30pm 

Carrick Concert 6 th 8pm 

SATURDAY 

Galaxy Dancing (Weekly excl 14 th ) 

9.30am - 5pm 

Councillors Surgery 7 th 11.30am – 

12noon 

SUNDAY 

Baptist Church (wkly) 11am and 6pm 


Houston & Killellan 

Agricultural 

Society 

Houston and Killellan Agricultural 

Society are holding a Quiz night in 

J.G.Fleming Bowling Club Houston 

on Friday 24th November at 7.30pm. 

Tickets cost £5 to include a light 

supper and are available from Isabelle 

Stuart issistuart@gmail.com or from 

any committee member. 



49 

Residents from all across the ward have been contacting me 

about the new delays at the Deafhillock roundabout which 

are due to Scottish Water having to do additional work to 

ensure a safe and secure water supply to the Weirs Wynd 

development at Merchiston. As a local driver this is every 

bit as frustrating for me as it is for constituents so please 

be assured I am liaising with council offi cers, Scottish Water, 

and David Wilson Homes, to make sure works are fi nished by 

the deadline of 10th December. 

I am delighted to report that the telephone box at Crosslee 

is getting repainted by the BT painting team when they are 

next in Renfrewshire. Not everyone has a mobile phone 

even these days so I am pleased that BT now recognise this, and Crosslee will at 

sometime in the future have a shiny bright red phone box once again. 

I was the only ward Councillor to attend the DEPA hearing at Erskine, and at the 

site visit in Brookfi eld the next day, and I went to support Brookfi eld Community 

Council in opposing the Sandholes Road development, the two community council 

representatives spoke forcibly for the interests of the village and I sincerely hope 

our voices are listened to. 

My advice surgery in Brookfi eld is on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6.30pm in Brookfi eld 

Village Hall, and my advice surgery in Houston is on the 4th Thursday of the month 

in Houston Village Hall, at 7.15pm, excluding July and Christmas. But I am also always 

available to constituents who can call me on 07768 130935, or e-mail me at cllr.audrey. 

doig@renfrewshire.gov.uk. 


Volunteering at 1st Houston Girls’ Brigade 

No matter how much time you have to give, there’s an 

opportunity for you at 1st Houston Girls’ Brigade. 

Join our group of motivating Leaders to offer occasional 

support, or simply share a skill or passion with girls in our 

Company. 

Our volunteering opportunities can fi t around your skills, 

commitments and interests. 

You don’t need to have been 

involved in Girls’ Brigade before to make a big difference and fi nd a role that’s 

perfect for you. 

Whether helping each week, or helping out more casually, you’ll run activities, 

games, projects and events that give girls the opportunity to discover their 

potential in achieving their badge work. If you’d like to help, you’ll be supported 

with training. 

These roles are perfect for you if you: 

* would like to join our Company 

* can support our girls on a weekly basis - giving you the opportunity to see 

them develop and achieve their badge work 

* help our girls with a range of exciting, adventurous and often messy 

activities 

* would like to be part of a team and develop great relationships with our 

team and our girls 

If you aren’t able to volunteer on a regular basis, you can still make an impact in 

a supporting role. No commitment is too small - every role is vital to the running 

of our Company. 

If you would like to register an interest in our Company please contact Lisa 

Dickson on 07739 641816 or by email at 1sthoustongb@gmail.com 


Brookfield 

Country Dancing 

We regret, that after many years, 

age has caught up with us and we 

have decided to call it a day on the 

country dance class. We would 

like to thank our dance teacher 

Mrs Nancy Brown and everyone 

who has joined us over the years. 


Houston & Crosslee SWI 


Houston and 

Killellan Kirk Postie 

It's getting near that time of year again 

and Houston and Killellan Kirk will be 

offering the Kirk Postie Service once 

again. This year the Postie will be 

open 10th - 14th December and all 

monies raised will go to Alzheimer’s 

Scotland (Memory Lane Clinic) based 

in Paisley, more details next month. 

We continue our year with a visit from Neil Smith and his dog Ginger 

on October 11th when he will tell us about “Hearing Dogs”. On 8th 

November Mr Harper will talk to us about Farming in Scotland. 

We meet in the Compass Centre, South Street, Houston, please come and join us, 

you will be made very welcome. If you wish further information please contact, 

Arlene MacKay on 07932 459994. 

houston, crosslee & brookfield


50 


Houston House 

A couple from Atlanta USA, David Houston, was in the village looking into his 

family history and took this picture of Houston House. 

When he and his wife Alicia were being shown round or wee village by local, 

James Martin, they were so taken by how beautiful it looks and for once it was a 

lovely sunday afternoon. 


Parlez Vous 

Francais 

French Conversation group meets 

every Wednesday from 9.30 till 12 at 

Fox & Hounds. Informal tuition same 

venue 2-4 pm. Phone 01505 871 

343, 07463 570464 or email avril. 

forbes2015@outlook.com 


Who, Why, How? 

Are you interested in discussing who we 

are, why we are here, predestination 

or free will, western philosophy versus 

eastern philosophy? We meet in Fox 

and Hounds once a fortnight. Contact 

01505 871343 or 07463 570464 or 

email avril.forbes2015@outlook.com. 

bid backed by all local party leaders 

The fi nal bid document is due to be submitted to the UK Government’s Department 

for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport at the end of the month – and elected 

members are set to consider it when the council meets on September 28. 

Paisley was this summer named as the only Scottish bidder on the shortlist for the 

2021 competition, alongside Coventry, Stoke, Sunderland and Swansea. The bid 

is part of a wider push to use Paisley’s unique cultural and heritage offer to make 

it a key visitor destination within Scotland, and transform the future of the whole 

Renfrewshire area. And support crosses party lines – with council leader Iain 

Nicolson (SNP), Labour’s Eddie Devine, James MacLaren of the Conservatives, 

Lib Dem Eileen McCartin and independent Andy Doig all gathering outside Paisley 

Abbey to give their backing, joined by children from Williamsburgh Primary. 

The bid has already enjoyed public support from national 

political fi gures including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, 

Scottish Secretary David Mundell and outgoing Scottish 

Labour leader Kezia Dugdale. Councillor Nicolson – who 

also chairs the Paisley 2021 Partnership Board said: “The 

potential benefi ts of a successful bid are absolutely massive – 

for example, the activity before, during and after our planned 

UK City of Culture year is predicted to create 4,700 jobs over 

a ten-year period. 

“When dealing with something of that scale it is important we 

as elected members put our party differences aside and do 

all we can to make it happen – so I am delighted to be joined 

by my fellow councillors today to show our collective support 

for the bid.” 

Councillor Devine said: “Over the past two years, the Paisley 

2021 bid has energised people throughout the town and given 

them a reason to believe in Paisley again – Buddies have 

driven the campaign to date and they deserve this title and all 

the benefi ts it will bring them.” 

Councillor MacLaren added: “We have already seen from 

previous winners Derry-Londonderry and Hull how winning 

this title can boost local business and drive investment in 

infrastructure and industry. I am happy to get behind anything 

which could do the same for Paisley and Renfrewshire.” 


Plans progress to regenerate 

Paisley’s West End 

Plans to transform the West End of Paisley have taken a further step forward after 

Councillors approved detailed development of the proposals. 

Residents and business owners have already shown their support for the draft 

Paisley West End Regeneration Masterplan which outlines proposals to convert 

vacant land and low demand property into new housing. Now members of the 

Council’s Leadership Board have backed the plans and called for a fi nalised, fully 

costed masterplan to be brought back to the next board in December 2017. 

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson, Convener of the Leadership Board, 

said: “I am pleased that there is collective agreement from across the Council to 

continue to develop these transformational plans for the west end of Paisley. They 

have been welcomed by the people who live and work there, the residents and 

business owners, and it is vital that we continue to listen to them as we develop 

the plans further. There is a shared desire to improve the quality of available 

housing and make the area an attractive place for people to live and work.” 

The masterplan proposes to develop around 150 private and social homes and 

potentially provide new commercial units on land around Paisley’s Well Street 

through demolition of low demand tenement fl ats and commercial ground fl oor 

properties on the east side of Well Street and vacant residential blocks on 

Clavering Street East. Land formerly home to University of the West of Scotland 

Halls of Residence would also be cleared and local community growing areas 

relocated within the West End under the masterplan proposals. 

Councillors noted the positive fi ndings of the consultation conducted so far, 

with residents and business owners backing the plans and commenting on the 

benefi ts of the area’s central location, good public transport links and the closeknit 

community. The consultation also highlighted the challenges facing the 

area, with high levels of vacant properties in a poor condition and issues such as 

vandalism and anti-social behaviour. 

Councillor Nicolson added: “We are committed to regenerating Renfrewshire and 

making it an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest in. Paisley’s West End 

is an integral part of plans to regenerate Paisley Town Centre and we are making 

excellent progress, driven by projects including the Glasgow City Region City Deal 

projects and Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021.” 

Consultation is continuing and residents and business owners in the masterplan 

area as well as people in the wider community can call 0141 618 6003 to discuss 

the regeneration proposals. 

Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021 has received a show of cross-party support – having been backed by all five 

party leaders on Renfrewshire Council. 

Councillor McCartin said: “Paisley was once the centre of the world’s textile 

industry and the legacy of that is still around us in wonderful buildings such 

as our town hall and Sma’ Shot Cottages. That story should be told to as many 

people as possible and I back anything which will help do that.” 

And Councillor Doig added: “Renfrewshire has some great heritage attractions 

and huge potential as a visitor destination – and a successful Paisley 2021 bid 

will bring huge numbers of people to the area, giving all our towns and villages a 

chance to benefi t.” 

The winner of the competition is due to be announced in December. For more 

info, see www.paisley2021.co.uk 

From top left: Councillors Eddie Devine, Andy Doig, Eileen McCartin, Iain Nicolson, James MacLaren. 

Williamsburgh PS pupils L-R: Cameron Anderson, Abena Agyeman, Morgan Sturrock, Sonny Wardrope, Beau Smith. 



Paisley Colour Photographic Club 

insect macro work, power boat and 

jet-ski racing at Greenock, speedway 

at Glasgow Tigers, motor bike racing 

at Knockhill race circuit and horse 

sulkie racing at Corbiewood, near 

Bannockburn. The programme 

of events was well attended by 

enthusiastic photographers of all 

abilities with advanced members of 

the club always on hand to give the 

benefi t of their experience to those 

newer to photography. 

While the formal summer programme 

opportunities. 

As the summer draws to its close the 

club’s photographers thoughts are 

turning towards its winter programme 

of Tuesday night training sessions 

at Renfrew Leisure Centre and 

Thursday meetings at the William 

McMaster Centre in Renfrew, which 

commence on 7th September. 

The photographers at Paisley 

Colour Photographic Club have 

been stoically embracing all that 

this summer’s weather has had to 

throw at them and participating in 

a programme of Thursday evening 

and weekend photoshoots. The 

programme has delivered a wide 

variety of photo opportunities 

around the Central Belt and has 

included landscape, seascape, 

is now complete, the 

club’s photographers 

remain active with such 

diverse forthcoming 

events as canoe slalom 

at Grandtully, 3 day horse 

eventing at Blair Atholl, 

Ayr seafront air show 

a yachting regatta at 

Helensburgh and MotoX 

at Duns all to be exploited 

for their photographic 

The winter syllabus has something 

to appeal to all and contains subjects ranging through nature, landscape, sport 

and astro-photography, digital art, digital processing, the infl uence of art upon 

photography and the Forth 

Equally important to the series of lectures within the winter programme are 

the club’s internal competition nights which are strongly supported by the 

photographers in the beginners, intermediate and advanced sections and are 

always hotly contested. 

It is a continuing source of pride for the club that the best of the images from 

its internal competitions often progress to succeed at the very highest level in 

International Photographic Salons. 

The long-established club has a warm welcome awaiting for anyone that shares 

the passion for picture making, either as an active photographer seeking to 

progress their skills or as a spectator to the quality of photographic talent to be 

enjoyed throughout the winter season between September and April. 

More information about the Club can be found on its website at http://www. 

paisleycolour.co.uk/ 

Langbank Camera Club 

51 

Our September meeting was the fi rst meeting of the 2017/18 session. It was 

an opportunity to welcome new members and to discuss the syllabus and 

competition topics for the coming two sessions. We will be providing tutorials 

and talks on many topics this year. This will include going back to basics for 

members new to photography as well as more advanced topics. For example, 

getting to know the controls on the camera and using simple and advanced photo 

management tools. Computer related topics will also be discussed given that the 

relationship with photography is so intertwined. 

During the evening we had a slide show of members’ images taken over the 

summer months. These images were interesting and very informative as 

members described where and how the images were taken. 

The club’s September’s competition topic was 

“Bronze”. The competition entries were all 

excellent and varied in style and content. The 

winning photograph, taken at night, was of Donald 

Dewar’s statue looking down Buchanan Street, 

Glasgow, by James Goodall. Second place was 

awarded to Derrick McPherson for his image of 

Bobby at Wemyss Bay Station. 

The main October 

meeting will be 

held on the Monday 

9th at 7.30pm. The 

competition topic 

is “Columns”. The 

Projected Digital Image (PDI) meeting will be 

held on Monday 23rd October at 7.30pm with the 

theme of “Masks”. All club meetings are held in 

the Langbank Church Halls, Langbank. 

Membership of the club is only £10 for the fi rst 

year. If you wish to fi nd out more about camera 

club please contact Derrick McPherson at 

langbankcc1@gmail.com with your enquiries. 

Gryffe Camera Club 

September started with a “Welcome Night “ at the fi rst meeting (we meet each 

Wednesday evening) for returning and new members. After the welcome from 

Roger, the club president, the programme for the year was outlined by Rob, the 

syllabus secretary. 

Members were then invited to produce postcards, either in digital form or as 

prints, and the result was a fi ne selection from the many places visited during 

the summer. 

Gryffe Camera Club was established exactly 30 years ago and to mark the event 

members (at the time of writing) will celebrate this anniversary in the Fox and 

Hounds on 22nd September. 

The fi nal meeting for September has an international fl avour as we take part in 

a 4-way competition with camera clubs from Mougins, a commune in the Alpe- 

Maritimes of south-east France, Guadelajara and Grenoble. Exciting! 

Here’s our programme for October (all Wednesdays): 

4th: 1st League Competition (OPEN) 

11th: SPEAKER – Pat Allan – “Snow and Ice”, “Bears and Bison” 

18th Look to the Future and Members Night with Kate 

25th: SPEAKERS: Tom Doherty and Eric Watts on “Glasgow” 

While the club is for members if any of the evenings appeal please feel welcome 

to come along. We meet in The Carrick Centre, Houston each Wednesday. www. 

gryffecamera club.co.uk 

A selection of images from a couple of last 

session’s prize winners and a recent visit to 

Portencross: 

“Looking at Ya” and “Grand Jorasse” by 

Andy Stark, “Fly Bee” by Ronnie Logan 

and “Sunset at Portencross” by Kate 

Cummings 


52 


Houston Primary School 

Primary 5 have made wonderful ‘selfie’ portraits. Do you 

recognise anyone? 

Welcome Back 

The pupils from Houston Primary School have returned 

after the summer holidays and have clearly grown over 

the past six weeks. We welcome our new Nursery and 

Primary 1 pupils and also very many other pupils who 

have joined us in other stages of the school. We also 

welcome Mrs Mead, Mrs McCann, Miss Adam and Miss 

Brown to our staff team. 

We look forward to a fun filled year of learning for all of 

our pupils. 

Class News 

During the summer holidays the Nursery has had a 

makeover. Partitions have been removed to open up 

the space, walls have been re-painted and beautiful 

new furniture has been purchased. It looks amazing. 

Primary 1 pupils have had a fantastic start and are being 

supported by their Primary 7 buddies. They are excited 

to learn about ‘p’ for pirates and have been making 

pirate hats and swords. 

Primary 2 & 3 are heading off to Lunderston Bay to 

learn more about the seaside and pollution. They have 

studied seagulls in depth and have even made some 

amazing 3D gulls, demonstrating excellent cutting and 

folding skills. 

Primary 4 are reading their first class science fiction 

novel, ‘The Iron Man’ and are really enjoying it. They 

are also using new fun characters to help them to read, 

‘Tryin’ Lion’ is a favourite. 

Kilbarchan Tuesday Tots 

Primary 6 have been learning about France and 

have started to make travel brochures about all of the 

wonderful sites. 

Primary 7 are enjoying taking on the very many 

responsibilities that comes with being at the top of the 

school. We have monitors, play leaders and newspaper 

reporters to name but a few. 

The Adventures of Flyback 

Our Houston gull Flyback is off on a wonderful adventure. 

Since leaving Houston in July, he has flown to England, 

France, Spain, Portugal and is now in Casablanca in 

Morocco! If you would like to track his progress, please 

visit www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk 

Scottish Maths Week 11-17 September 

This is a brand new initiative to help everyone in 

Scotland to see maths in a more positive light. The 

aim is to promote and experience the benefits, joy and 

beauty of maths in exciting new ways during this week. 

The staff and pupils are looking forward to taking part in 

this national event. 

Gardening Club 

Our school gardening 

club has resumed and 

they have already 

harvested a wide 

variety of fruits and 

vegetables. The best 

of the bunch will be 

entered into the Bridge 

of Weir Horticultural Show. 

Kilbarchan Tuesday Tots meet every Tuesday 

morning during term time from 10-12am in 

Kilbarchan Scout Hall. 

We welcome parents and carers with children from birth 

to school age for fun play, sing alongs, chat and most 

importantly a hot cuppa and biscuits! 

We offer learning opportunities, friendship, support, and a shared understanding of 

navigating this rollercoaster that is parenting in the early years. 

Our sessions are fun, friendly and open to all. This month’s arts n crafts activity included 

icing biscuits; tasty messy fun. Next month is hand printing on re-useable shopping bags 

- perfect personal Christmas pressies for loved ones. 

Please come join us. Adults are asked for a £2 donation and healthy snacks for the children are included. 

We look forward to seeing you. 

every Mo n d a y 

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers 

McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am 

£2/family fee incl tea & children’s snacks. 

Kilmacolm Playgroup 

St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm, 

9.30am - 11.40am 

Howwood Baby & Toddler Group 

Howwood Parish Church, 10am - 12noon 

Kilbarchan Parish Church Tots’ Club 

Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, 9.15am 

- 11.30am 

every Tuesday 

Kilbarchan Tots 

Kilbarchan Scout Hall, 10am-12noon 

£2 contribution. Tea, coffee & biscuits. 

Bridge of Weir Toddlers 

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, BoW 

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am 



9.30am - 11.40am 

Howwood Playgroup 

Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am 


Kilmacolm Toddlers 


10am - 11.30am 

For children from birth to 3 years. 

Lochwinnoch Baby & Toddlers 

McKillop Hall, 9.45am - 11.30am 

£2/family fee incl tea and children’s snacks. 



every Th u r s d a y 

Houston Toddlers 

Church Hall, Main Street, Houston 

Pop along and see us from 9.30am - 11.30am 



9.15am - 11.40am 



every Fr i d a y 

Langbank Playgroup 

Langbank Village Hall, 9.45 - 11.45am 

For 2.5 - 5yr olds. 

Contact Jen Burrows 07947 983025. 

Langbank Under 3’s 

Church Hall, Langbank, 10am - 11.45am 

For children from birth to 3 years 

Baby and Toddler Group 

Elderslie Kirk, Main Rd, Elderslie, 

9.30am - 11.30am 

£2 includes children’s snack and tea/coffee. 

Lots of different toys to play with. All welcome. 

Community Bookbug Sessions 

Livingstone Hall at St Columba’s Junior 

School, Knockbuckle Road, Kilmacolm. 

From 9.30 - 10am 

1st & 3rd Fr i d a y 

Renfrewshire Inverclyde Twins Club 

McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch, 

1pm -2.30pm 

£3. Bring a mug along for a cuppa. 




53 

We hope you are all 

enjoying the new term 

and extend a warm 

welcome to William, 

James, Ailsa, Doune and 

Gia and their families 

who have joined us. As 

ever it is a busy term so 

please keep checking 

our parents/carers 

information board for up 

to date information. 

Up and Coming Events 

Our Halloween party is on Tuesday 31st October and fancy dress is 

optional. It will be during the morning session. . 

October School Break 

Our last playgroup session will be Thursday 12th of October and we will 

return on Tuesday 24th of October. 

We have lots of exciting things planned for the new term giving the children 

a great opportunity for learning through play. Kilmacolm playgroup provide 

both structured and free-flow play and follow the pre-birth to three curriculum 

and the curriculum for excellence 3- 18. We are open Monday morning 

9.30am – 11.40am Tuesday morning 9.15am to 11.40am and Thursday 

morning 9.15am to 11.40am. 

All enquiries to the Secretary Iona Marcroft iona@iscassetmanagement. 

co.uk 

St. Fillan’s Primary School 

We have all settled well into a new school session and our Primary one 

pupils already feel at home. Their Primary 7 Buddies have been keen to 

support them as they settle into their new school routines. 

Everyone has taken part in their first Committee Meeting and members are 

working collaboratively to decide their vision and aims for the year ahead. 

A number of Leadership Roles have been identified within each group and 

members have been keen to nominate themselves to lead their group as: 

Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Media Liaison Officer. We 

look forward to monitoring the progress of Committee Groups as their 

initiatives to improve our school unfold. 

Each pupil in our school is part of a House Group who work co-operatively 

during Assemblies. Older pupils support younger pupils in their learning 

around the core values that we promote in our school. There is an 

opportunity to earn ‘House Points’ by living by our values in our thoughts, 

words and deeds and each house strives to work together to win the title of 

the ‘Winning House’ each week. Our House Captains and Vice Captains 

are enthusiastic and motivated to steer their House towards the ultimate 

goal which is to be ‘House of the Year’ and to lift the trophy! Ogilvie were 

the winners last year and while they are keen to maintain their title, the 

other Houses have other plans! We wish them all well in the school year 

ahead. 

Strawberry 

Field Out Of 

School Care 

After a busy and eventful 

summer holiday, we have now 

moved into our new building. 

We haven’t gone far – just to 

the building next door. 

The transition went extremely well and children are now settled and 

exploring all our new rooms and layout. The building has been completely 

overhauled to cater for children of primary school age. We have added new 

equipment, and everything is freshly painted. 

Hopefully we will still have a few weeks good weather left in order for us to 

utilise our vast outdoor space, but on rainy days we can use our covered 

area to still get lots of fresh air but not get soggy. 

If you would like to come and visit us we still have limited spaces for term 

time as well as spaces for school holiday cover. You can contact us at 

sam@sfnursery.com or alternatively give us a call on 01505 615315. 

Highland Hustle Tots ... 

The new class where tots and 

adults dance together. Developing 

rhythm, dance, coordination and 

confidence. Kids love the lively 

music and simple steps as you 

exercise with them. 


Houston Baby and Toddlers 

What a fun time we’ve been having 

at toddlers, creating our own ‘fish 

bowls’ with plates and stickers 

and we can not wait to celebrate 

Halloween together and enjoy the 

dressing up! We have lots planned 

over the coming months, including 

crafts, parties and a grown ups 

evening out. 

Children from 0-4 years old, together 

with their parents/grandparent/ 

carer, will receive a warm welcome. The children can have fun playing with 

our many toys while the adults chat over a cuppa. We meet every Thursday 

09.30 - 11.30 (Closed Thursday 19 October ) in the West hall, Main Street, 

Houston, PA6 7EL (next door to the Carrick Centre) – please feel free to 

join us anytime. We look forward to meeting you. Sharon, Lesley & Fiona. 

(lesleyannjackson@outlook.com).

54 

Duchal Nursery School 


Duchal Nursery in Kilmacolm is celebrating 50 years of providing specialist pre school 

nursery education for local children. Set up in 1967 by local parents, Duchal Nursery, 

located at Birkmyre Park in Kilmacolm has grown from strength to strength over the years. 

With a purpose built facility it is the perfect place for young children (age 2yrs 9mths - 

5yrs) to flourish and grow in confidence before they go to school. Being an independent 

nursery our children move on to a number of different schools both in Inverclyde and 

Renfrewshire. We are open term time from 8.15am until 3.30pm every day. 

At the end of the summer term our Head Teacher Mrs Jean McCarthy retired after 15 years 

heading up a great team of staff. Former Duchal children and their families celebrated her 

time at Duchal with a wonderful gathering around the nursery. Life long friends made at 

nursery came together for an afternoon of fun and games at Birkmyre Park to wish her a 

long and happy retirement. Families from all 15 years were present just demonstrating 

what a unique and special place Duchal Nursery is and how lucky the children have been 

to be part of it. 

Our new Head Teacher Mrs Judy Ormond has begun the new term full of enthusiasm and 

great ideas for the next chapter of our nursery and we look forward to the next 50 years 

of pre school education. 

We are having lots of fun with our “Jungle” topic, we’ve been making tiger pictures and 

yellow snakes and have created a fantastic wall display which makes us feel we are really 

in the jungle! Our afternoon club, which runs until 3.30pm each day, are readying Hansel 

& Gretel and thoroughly enjoying making trails around the nursery to follow and even 

created an amazing sweetie house! 

Our Active Starts are great fun which 

we do each week, getting the children 

moving first thing. Continuing our 

healthy living approach we had a 

fantastic visit from our local Tae kwon 

do expert there was lots of fun and 

giggling as we learnt all the moves!! 

Despite the weather we have made 

the most of our outdoor space enjoying 

play and learning in our garden. 

Our Open Morning is being held at the 

nursery on Saturday 30th September 

from 10am – 12noon – anyone with 

pre school children is welcome to 

look round the nursery and meet current parents and the teachers. It is an excellent 

opportunity for anyone interested in Duchal to visit the nursery and see the wonderful 

facilities and opportunities that we offer. 

If you are unable to make the Open Morning, we are always happy for prospective parents 

to come and visit the Nursery at any time so please contact us on 01505 874358 to 

arrange a convenient date. Also visit our website at www.duchal.com and our Facebook 

page to keep up to date with all the latest news. 

Bookbug Sessions 

Free Story, Song and Rhyme Sessions for babies, 

toddlers, pre-school children and their families. 

To find details of your nearest Bookbug Session, please visit 

www.scottishbooktrust.com/bookbug 

Songs, rhymes, rhythm and movement! Free, friendly and 

fun for children aged up to four and their parents. No need 

to book, just drop in! Find a session near you in one of our 

libraries. 

Bishopton Library 

Lochwinnoch Library 

Every second Thursday. 5th & 

19th October, 2nd, 16th & 30 

November, 10-10.30am and 11- 

11.30am 

Bridge of Weir Library 

Please note, Bridge of Weir 

Library is currently closed for 

refurbishment. No sessions will 

take place during this time. Every 

second Thursday, 10-10.30am 

Erskine Library 

Every Monday, 9.45-10.15am 

(babies and children up to 15 

months) and 10.45-11.15am 

(children from 15months to 4 

years) 

Johnstone Library 

Every Wednesday, 9.15am 

(toddler group), 10.00am (toddler 

group ), 10.50am (baby group), 

11.20am (baby group) Every 

Saturday, 2.30-3pm 

Kilmacolm Library 

Every Thursday, 11-11.40am. (t: 

01475 715621) 

Linwood Library 

Every Thursday, 2-2.30pm. Every 

Saturday, 10.30-11am 

Every Tuesday, 9.30-9.55am 

(baby group from birth to 18 

months). Doors open 9.20am, 

10.30-11am (toddler group from 

18 months to 4 years). 

Paisley Central Library 

Every Monday, 10.15-10.45am 

(baby group from birth to 18 

months) and 11.15-11.45am 

(toddler group from ages 18 

months to 4 years). 

Port Glasgow Library 

Every Friday, 10-10.40am and 

11-11.40am. (t: 01475 715629) 

Renfrew Library 

Every Tuesday, 9.15 - 9.40am, 

9.50 -10.15am and 10.25 - 

10.50am 

St Columba Junior School, 

Kilmacolm 

Every Friday, 9.30-10am. 

(t: 01505 

872768) 

Langbank Playgroup 

Our Friday morning play sessions are filling up fast and we are now catering for 12 children, we still have spaces 

available! 

At playgroup, the children are given the opportunity to develop all their skills, ranging from self-help and 

independence skills, to literacy and numeracy skills. Over the last few weeks the children have been helping 

the “new starts” settle into the routine of playgroup. This involves them encouraging and assisting them with 

their self-help skills, sharing and turn taking. 

Do you have a child aged 2.5yrs to 5yrs old? Are you looking for a fun, friendly and welcoming place to go on a 

Friday morning (term time)? Then why not come along and join us in Langbank Village Hall! Everyone welcome 

from Langbank and surrounding areas. 

If you would like to join us or for more information please contact Jen Burrows on 07947 983025. 



St Columba School 

55 

The first school in the country to receive the Queen’s Award for 

Voluntary Service 

Mr Guy Clark, 

Lord-Lieutenant 

of Renfrewshire, 

represented Her 

Majesty as he presented the 

Queen’s Award for Voluntary 

Service to St Columba’s at a 

special ceremony on Monday 

18th September. The Award 

was conferred upon our Duke 

of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) 

Expedition Volunteers in 

recognition of the training and 

supervision which they have provided for over 30 years at Gold, Silver and Bronze 

levels. 

St Columba’s is the first school in Scotland to receive the Queen’s Award for 

Voluntary Service for its Duke of Edinburgh activities. This is the highest award 

given St Columba’s is the first school in Scotland to receive this Award which is 

considered the MBE for volunteer groups. Mrs Angus, Rector of St Columba’s, 

said “We are exceptionally fortunate to have such a dedicated, committed and 

experienced group of volunteers who ensure that the highest standards of training 

and supervision on the hills is enjoyed by our young people. We are thankful to our 

Award leaders and the many members of staff, parents, former pupils, former and 

current parents who throughout the years have truly led by example - often in the 

most challenging of weather conditions. The life skills developed are invaluable to 

our pupils’ education.” 

Community Summer Fete 

We had a wonderful day at our late summer community fete on 

Saturday 16th September. With a selection of stalls, 

games, family rounders, novelty dog competitions, 

pipe band, treasure hunt, BBQ and more, everyone 

thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. 

For further information on St Columba’s School please 

visit www.st-columbas.org. 

Open Morning: Sat 7th Oct 10am-1pm 

Academic Excellence - welcome to St 

Columba’s. As one of Scotland’s highest 

achieving schools, the exam results obtained 

by our pupils are consistently among the 

highest pass rates and percentage As in the 

country. 

Our size is also our strength. Each child 

aged 3-18 years is known by name and 

recognised as an individual. Our beautiful 

countryside location and excellent 

educational experience create a school 

environment which is challenging and vibrant. 

This allows pupils to achieve consistently 

outstanding examinations results and national success out 

with the classroom. We offer wraparound care from 7.30am- 

6pm, financial assistance and an extensive coach service is 

available. 

There is no better way to experience the true atmosphere of 

St Columba’s School than to come and see it for yourself. Our 

Open Morning provides the perfect opportunity for prospective 

and current families to see our Early Years, Junior and Senior 

Schools in action – school tours, a variety of activities and a 

welcome presentation from the Rector, Mrs Angus, at 10:15 

and then again at 11:45 in the Senior School Hall. A minibus 

service will operate between our Junior and Senior Schools. 

Please do come along from 10am-1pm and let our pupils show 

you what makes St Columba’s so special. 


56 

Gryffe High School 


Johnstone High School 

Activ8 is back 

.....at Gryffe High School and will run every Wednesday 

from three o’clock until four o’clock for eight weeks. 

The first session 

of Activ8 

captivated many 

pupils from First Year up to Fourth Year, 

as well as staff members from every 

department. Activ8 has something for 

everybody, and new participants are 

encouraged to join. Basketball, running club, 

gymnastics 

and football 

are just a 

few of the physical activities offered by the PE 

department, while debating club (E6), film club 

(E5), drama club (the Theatre) and stop motion 

animation (ICT 1) are also available for those 

who are more interested in activating the mind. 

There has been a massive turn out with new 

members expected each week. 

Aaron Mills – S4 Photographs – Media Team 

Media Team visits Sky Academy 

The Media Team at Gryffe High 

School had an amazing afternoon 

experiencing the high level of 

technology at Sky Academy Skills 

Studio in Livingston. They worked 

under pressure of time to produce 

their very own Breaking News story 

about Money. As Directors, Editors, 

Presenters or using the Cameras, 

the pupils were divided into 3 teams 

and worked on their own set in 

individual studios. In only one hour, 

they managed to film their parts, then 

bring the whole piece together. It 

was a most enjoyable afternoon and 

a great insight into how television 

works. 

Maths Week 

at Howwood 

Primary School 

The boys and girls at Howwood Primary 

School thoroughly enjoyed an array of 

activities for Scottish maths Week. They 

started off the week with puzzle day and lots 

of our P1 and P2 parents came in to help. 

The boys and girls attempted to solve the 

mystery of the Missing Fidget Spinner! As 

the week progressed our youngest pupils 

visited the local shop to put learning in 

context while the rest of the school enjoyed 

visits from the Moneysense team to support 

financial education. All week we were 

involved in outdoor maths with the maths 

trails being a huge hit with pupils. Pupils 

enjoyed coding sessions and worked well in 

house groups at the interhouse maths quiz 

and our P7’s enjoyed their first taste of high 

school with all feeder school heading to 

Johnstone High for a mathematical slosh! 

Maths week ended with a surprise visit 

from Captain Morgan, a lost pirate. Pupils 

worked together to help her find her ship 

and she sailed off safely in to the sunset at 

3 o’clock. 

The Renfrewshire Employability Awards 

Johnstone High are absolutely delighted that 

one of our formal pupils has been awarded 

with the prestigious CV Builder Award, 

awarded by The Renfrewshire Council 

Employability Awards. The Employability 

awards run every year and every year there 

is one prize awarded to an outstanding young 

person in the Renfrewshire community. This 

year, the award has been presented to Morgan 

Spence. Morgan has worked incredibly hard 

to deserve this honour. He played a huge part 

in the Paisley 2021 campaign, he has created animation for Legoland, 

worked with BBC World Service to create a Christmas advert and has 

even appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, broadcasting his talents to the world. 

He is currently working as an apprentice for the BBC and is travelling all 

over Britain developing his talents. As a school, we are beyond proud 

of all that he has achieved. Well done Morgan! 

Maths Week 

Johnstone High has been 

celebrating maths week all 

week. We are working hard 

to promote numeracy across 

the curriculum. Every 

department has provided 

interesting maths questions 

for all pupils across BGE, 

promoting conversation 

across the school. The upcoming primary 7 pupils visited during this 

time and were treated to an assembly highlighting the importance of 

math skills in everyday life. Pupils across the school got to take part in 

these lessons and there was even a mathematical version of the Slosh! 

There were also parent lessons, ensuring that everyone was involved. 

All staff, pupils and parents had a great time. 

The Hunter Foundation 

Before the summer a group of pupils put their heads together in order 

to imagine what Scotland would look like if they were allowed to rule. 

This idea was for a competition run by the Hunter Foundation. Although 

the pupils did not win, their entry has made into the e-book of complied 

entries. We are extremely proud of their efforts. 

Kilmacolm 

Primary 

School 

Nursery Class 

The boys and 

girl have been 

busy at nursery 

taking part 

in the Muga 

mile. Everday 

at nursery 

we complete 

a lap of the 

Muga pitch. 

The children 

in the school are tracking how 

far everyone is walking. We are 

walking from Scotland to Australia. 

Some of our parents and siblings 

joined in with the walk also. 



Port Glasgow High School 

57 

Junior School Paris Trip 

49 S2 and S3 pupils and staff had a marvellous trip to Paris and beyond. Pupils spent a day at Asterix 

Theme Park and a day at Disney Studios. A jammed packed day spent in Paris visiting the Eiffel Tower, 

having a history lesson at the Arc de Triomphe, a trip down the Champs-Elysées and art appreciation at 

The Louvre and the Sacre Coeur. Pupils also enjoyed a cultural boat trip on the River Seine. No rest on 

the journey home with a day visiting Ypres and the Menin Gate Memorial and also a quick visit to the In 

Flanders Field Museum. 

Maths Week 

Maths week was a very busy time with a plethora of activities taking place. S1 completed a maths trail, 

with answers to numerical questions found around the school. S2 created mathematical expressions to 

replace all the classroom door numbers. S3 lessons across the school were given particular focus on 

numeracy skills and senior pupils participated in the “Maths wi’ nae borders” competition. 

Singing Children of Africa 

PGHS warmly welcomed “The Singing Children of Africa”. The group of children from Kenya raise awareness and funds through the medium of music. 

A busy and enjoyable day was had by all including assemblies, collaborative concerts and question and answer sessions where young people from both 

cultures exchanged information. 

Follow us on Twitter @PortGlasgowHS and ‘like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PortGlasgowHigh 

Kilmacolm Primary School 

We had two major events taking 

place in school. We celebrated 

Roald Dahl Day by dressing up as 

a character from our favourite Roald 

Dahl book. We then had a whole 

school conga line to showcase our 

costumes which had a wide variety 

ranging from Oompah-Loompahs, to 

Matilda and the BFG. Many of our parents joined us for literacy 

activities e.g making dream jars, Roald Dahl storywriting and 

quizzes. Thanks to all who joined us. 

We have also held the launch of this year’s Muga Mile Challenge, 

where we are walking around our Muga to the Gold Coast in 

Australia for the Commonwealth Games. This will be a massive 

33million steps which we are hoping to have completed by April 

2018. The boys and girls, with many parents, brothers and 

sisters, walked with their commonwealth flags, eleven circuits of 

our Muga to get us started. We will update you with our progress 

next time. 

P6 &7 have entered the Gryffe Camera Club Photographic 

Competition again this year showing a high level of skill in taking 

interesting photographs in a variety of settings. Good luck to 

you all. 

Greener Morton are working with P4, P5 & P6 on their football 

skills and hopefully developing stars for the future. 

At the beginning of October we are looking forward to welcoming 

John Swinney, Education Minister, to our school. Mr Swinney’s 

visit will focus on literacy, particularly reading, linking to our 

participation in the First Minister’s Reading Challenge last session 

and following our invitation to visit the Scottish Parliament in 

Edinburgh which was a huge success. We are all looking forward 

to sharing the, ‘KPS Loves Reading’ message with him. 


Abbey Nursery 

Abbey Nursery children 

took part in National Maths 

Week from 11th - 15th 

September as part of our 

focus on numeracy this 

year. During the week, 

we explored numbers 

around us and took the 

children out and about on 

number hunts, number 

matching and recognition. 

The role play area was 

turned into a shop where 

children used ‘real money’ 

to buy old DVDs, CDs, 

food, toys, books, etc. 

Exploring My Body and 

My Nursery are topics in the Grasshopper playroom for 

the next few weeks and cutting out and building skeletons 

and drawing self portraits is a big favourite with the 

children just now. We also incorporated our maths skills 

into our topics; how many fingers/toes do you have? Or 

who many people can count in our group? 

Throughout the year the nursery is always keen to 

invite in people with particular skills that the children 

can enjoy and learn from. Mini Professors visited the 

nursery a couple of times recently and the Busy Bunnies 

experienced exploding pop bottles and other awe inspiring 

experiments and we hope to continue this in the future. 

Musicland is another activity we have introduced to the 

nursery on a weekly basis this term and the children are 

looking forward to learning from 

Jo Hames who is a story teller 

and singer and has started to 

feed the imagination with her 

colourful sessions. 

Following on from this 

experience, the Little Ladybirds 

are having fun with senses, 

smells and sensory activities 

and just love getting involved in 

anything to do with messy play! 

Long may this continue.

58 

Old Course Ranfurly 

Amateur Youth Team 

Championships 


Glasgow Golf Union 

Amateur Youth Team 

Championships - 

Congratulations to Louis 

Oliver who was part of the 

winning Renfrewshire 3 

man team at the Glasgow 

Golf Union Amateur Youth 

Team Championships held 

at Ralston Golf Club on 

Sunday 10th August. The 

tournament was reduced from 36 holes to 18 due to bad weather. The 

team comprising of Louis (Old Course Ranfurly), Sean Burns (Caldwell) 

and Stuart Cameron (Elderslie) claimed the title with a total score of 148. 

Well done guys, another great victory. 

Gleddoch Ladies brave the 

weather at Dundonald 

In spite of the weather, some Gleddoch ladies and friends enjoyed their 

weekend as volunteer scorers at the Scottish Ladies Open, and saw some 

great golf. 

The weather has been going from 

bad to worse, but most of the August 

competitions took place. The Carlaw 

Putter was won by captain Mhairi Bryce, 

with the Silver Salver played at the same 

time going to Vice Captain Shirley Back 

with a fantastic 38 Stableford points. 

Shirley also won the silver division of the 

Stroke competition the next week, and 

Margaret Adams won the bronze. Roisin 

Black and Trixie Brown were Silver and 

Bronze winners in the August medal. 

And STOP PRESS Shirley Back beat 

June Lockhart in a thrilling final to win 

Gleddoch’s Club Championship for the twelfth time. Congratulations are 

due to both! 

Our next competition is our Invitation Day. We’re keeping our fingers 

crossed for a dry day! 

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club Raffle 

for Prostate Cancer UK 

Old Course 

member Trevor 

Wilson, aided with 

the help of Lyall 

Campbell and our 

bar staff organised 

a raffle to coincide 

with our Saturday 

competition on 

the 26th August. 

Prizes were kindly 

donated by our 

friends & members 

and home baking 

was made to help 

raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, joining the fight to help save men’s 

lives. 

A total of £715 was raised so thank you to Trevor and the guys, this will go 

a long way to raise awareness and help beat prostate cancer. Currently one 

many every 45 minute dies from prostate cancer in the UK. That’s more 

than 11,000 men a year and by 2030, prostate cancer is set to become the 

mostly commonly diagnosed cancer of all in the UK. 

SGU Area Team Championships 

Our club champion Stewart Watt was selected to represent Renfrewshire 

Golf Union as part of their 6 man team at the Scottish Golf Union Area Team 

Championships in Newmachar. After a strong performance in the strokeplay 

section, Renfrewshire qualified 4th seed for the knockouts. They would 

eventually go on to claim a bronze medal after a narrow loss to Lothian GU 

in the semi finals. Congratulations to the team and to Captain Andy Farmer 

and Matt Clark of Kilmalcolm Golf Club. 

KILMACOLM BOWLING CLUB 

LADIES SECTION 



LADY MEMBERS WANTED 

Try your hand at Green Bowling at the ladies’ 

aernoons. Games commence at 2pm on 

every Tuesday and Thursday aernoons. Come 

along for the aernoon and have a game. 

Bowls will be provided, flat shoes required. 

For details contact Sandra on 01505 873126 or 

Morag on 01505 872218 

or just come along and have some fun. 





Ladies Captains Outing 

Dunblane was Hazel Kirkland’s 

choice for this years Captain’s 

Outing. 41 ladies headed off on a 

bus from the club on Friday 25th 

August and despite very challenging 

weather conditions a great day was 

had by all. The Captain’s Purple 

team were pipped at the post by the 

Vice Captains Pinks, and the overall 

winner was Ann McKenzie with 

an impressive 37 points. The day 

ended back at Old Ranfurly with a few drinks and final sing song! 

59 

Newton Shield Captain and 

Vice Captains Trophy 

If you’ve been feeling down in the 

dumps, or struggling with your 

game, fear not, miracles CAN 

happen... 

September Invitational 

We had a very successful autumn 

invitational on Saturday 9th August. 

We were lucky enough to boast yet 

another full field and the weather even 

played its part to what was a great day. 

Congratulations to popular member 

Russell Johnstone and his guest for the 

day Mick Hennessy who claimed 1st 

place with a score of 61, well done to 

all of the winner. Thank you to all the 

participants and sponsors. 

Winners of the 2017 Newton 

Shield Captains and Vice Captains 

Trophy, Old Course Captain John 

Clark and Vice Captain Lyall 

Campbell. Congratulations to both, 

and well earned with an impressive 

41 stableford points on a difficult 

scoring day. 


60 

Local girls selected for Scottish 

Rugby Showcase 

Three local girls were selected to 

represent West of Scotland, Ellis Martin 

joined Louise and Siobhan McMillan to 

challenge the East of Scotland in a hard 

fought game at Murrayfield. Despite a 

strong start the speed of the East wings 

ultimately helped them gain a convincing 

win. The annual fixture sees the best of 

Scotland’s womens rugby players take to 

the field to take back the cup for either 

East or West and is recognised as a trial 

for selection for the Scotland women’s 

squad. The girls did not come away 

empty handed with Louise being awarded 

the Keri Holdsworth Plate as player of the 

match. 

Ellis was also selected to represent Scotland in the U19 7s squad competing 

in the Sainsbury’s school games in Loughborough at the beginning of 

September with games against England, Ireland, and Wales. 

All three girls are now playing for Hillhead Jordanhill who lead the Women’s 

Premiership having scored 280 points in their first three matches, and only 

conceded 12. They have made a good start on their goal of winning the 

league and cup double this year. 

every Mo n d a y 

Adult Jazz Class 

Bridge of Weir, 10am 

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information. 

Zumba Light 

St Fillan’s Church, Kilmacolm, 10am. 

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information. 

Adult Beginners Ballet Class 

Bridge of Weir, 11.30am 

Tel: 01505 690757 for further information. 

Kilbarchan Athletic Club 

On-X, Linwood, 7pm 

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990. 

5-a-side Football 

Powerleague Paisley, 6pm 

Tel: Jim on 01505 874215; or jimbretherton@aol.com 

Old Skool Step Class 

Freelands Church (Opposite Amaretto), 6.30pm. 

Tel: 07505 126416 For More Information. 

Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton 

Cargill Hall, Lintwhite Cres, 7.30pm 

Callanetics 

Brookfield Village Hall, 7.15pm 

Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club 

The Trust Inn, Kilbarchan, 9pm - 10.30pm 

Visit www.strathgryffe.org for details. 

The Shotokan Karate Club 

Woodlands Primary, Linwood, 7-8pm/8-9pm 

www.linwoodkarate.co.uk 

Hatha Yoga 

Tweedie Halls, Linwood, 10 - 11am 

Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272. 

every Tuesday 

Bridge of Weir Walking Group 

Outside the Co-op, BoW, 10.30am 

1 hour walks. Call Senga on 0141 842 3000. 

Gryffe Badminton 

Strathgryffe Tennis Club, 8pm 

Football Training 

Johnstone High School, 6pm - 9pm 

Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details. 

Taekwon-Do 

Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm 

Call 07951 365166 for details. 


Greenock Hockey Club 

Inverclyde Academy, Greenock, 6.30 - 8pm 

Contact Liz Baldwin, mobile 07944 607005. 

Callanetics 

Brookfield Village Hall, 5.15, 6.15 & 7.30pm 

Hatha Yoga 

Large Hall, St Columba Church, 6.30 - 8pm 

Classes available to all levels. Tel: 07968 207272. 

every Th u r s d a y 

Kilbarchan Athletic Club 

On-X, Linwood, 7pm 

All abilities welcome. Tel: 07941 686990. 

Kilmacolm Walkers 

Birkmyre Park Pavilion, Kilmacolm, 10am 

David 01505 874192 kilmacolmwalkers@talktalk.net 

Callanetics 

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am 

The Shotokan Karate Club 

Woodlands PS, Linwood, 7pm & 8pm 

www.linwoodkarate.co.uk 

Football Training 

Johnstone High School, 6pm - 9pm 

Call Ali on 07775 578795 for details 

Taekwon-Do 

Johnstone Sports Complex PA5 0LD, 6pm 

Call 07951 365166 for details 

Baby Ballet 

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Morning 

Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details 

Falun Dafa practice 

Port Glasgow Library 17:00 - 19:00 

With five gentle exercises, Falun Dafa is an ancient 

self-cultivation practice based on the principles of 

Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance. 

every Fr i d a y 

Callanetics 

Brookfield Village Hall, 9.15am & 10.30am 

Adult Tap Lessons 

Cargill Centre, Kilmacolm, Evening 

Call Gail Ashley on 07415 701667 for details 

every Su n d a y 

Birkmyre Rugby Club, Kilmacolm 

Youth Rugby Section, 11am - 1pm 

www.pitchero.com/clubs/birkmyre 

info@advertizer.co.uk n 01505 613340 

Ranfurly Castle 


The golfing season is coming to an end and, despite the poor weather, the 

Ladies section have managed to complete all their major competitions. 

On 9th August the Lady Captain’s team played the Lady Vice-Captain’s 

team in the annual Pooh Putter challenge. The result was a resounding 

victory for the Captain’s side. 

On 16th August the Lady Captain’s team 

took on the Captain’s Team playing for 

the Halden Cup. This resulted in a 4 

games to 3 victory for the Captain’s 

Team despite Nancy MacGadie having 

a Hole In One. This was Nancy’s first 

in a long golfing career and, true to 

tradition, everyone enjoyed a very nice 

glass of bubbly to help her celebrate. 

This was followed by a delicious lunch. 

Saturday 26th August was the Club 

Finals Day and we were fortunate that 

the torrential rain of the previous night 

stopped and the day went ahead as 

planned. The Ladies final between 

Marion Munro and Denise Cowan 

resulted in Marion becoming the Ladies 

Champion for 2017, the mixed foursomes 

winners of the Warpelsdon Trophy were 

Vivien and Alastair Howe, the Club 

Champion is Andrew Cunningham, the 

Seniors Champion is James Andrew and 

the Junior Champion is Angus Frood. Our warmest congratulations go to 

all. 

On 29th August the ladies held 

their invitation day in good weather. 

Winners, with a better inward half, 

were Alison Templeton and her guest 

Margo Maxwell. Doreen McConnell 

was winner of Nearest the Pin 

while guest Vickie Sandeman won 

Nearest the Line. 

On 13th September Sarah Eckford 

was winner of the Mitchell Trophy - 

the final one of the season - and Marion Munro was runner-up. 

Ranfurly Castle Ladies have retained their title as winners of the West 

Renfrewshire League and congratulations go to all who played in the team. 

The Greenlees Team have finished the year with a win over Cathkin Braes 

at home, which secures their place to remain in Division One for the next 

season. 

Finally, congratulations to Marion Munro on her victory in the RLCGA 

County Medal played on 16th August at Whitecraigs Golf Club. 

Beith Trust Young Leader 

Sports Camp 

4th October at 3.30pm to 6th December at 6.30pm 

Come along and work your way to achieving a Play Maker or young 

leader award. Starting 4th October 2017 3:30pm-5:30pm @ Beith Astro. 

£6 per session or £50 group booking (10 weeks) 

5-12 years old however participants must be 9 years old to obtain 

award! 

Beith Astro, Beith KA15 1BY 



Pitch Up for St 

Vincent’s Hospice 

St Vincent’s Hospice hosted 

our annual charity Golf Event 

at the beautiful Kilmacolm Golf 

Club, Kilmacolm on Friday 8th 

September 2017. 

Teams of four enjoyed a 

breakfast roll with tea and coffee 

in the Club House on arrival 

before heading onto the course 

at 9.30am shotgun start. 

We were delighted, once again, to have Arnold Clark as our main event 

sponsor and also our Hole in One sponsor. One lucky golfer had the 

chance to win a brand new car if they managed a hole in one on the second 

tee, many came close but nobody managed the golden shot! We also had 

Longest/Straightest and nearest the pin competitions kindly sponsored by 

Gordon Leslie Group. 

After play, the teams 

enjoyed lunch and catch 

up on the scores of 

other competitors to see 

who would be taking 

home the St Vincent’s 

Hospice Golf Trophy. The 

eventual winners and a 

big congratulations go 

to Team Boyd insurance 

who finished with an 

impressive stableford score of 86 and were delighted with their prizes. The 

runners up were Ralston B (Gleniffer Estates) and Charlies Angels (CPMS) 

respectively with a close fought 84. 

We look forward to arranging our next golf day so any keen golfers out 

there it’s never too early to make an enquiry into next year’s event, so if 

you would like to be part of this exciting day and help support St Vincent’s 

Hospice please get in touch with our fundraising team on 01505 705635 or 

email info@svh.co.uk 

Hatha Yoga 

Sporting Blog 

by Lesley Handley 

On Wednesdays 6.30 pm - 8pm 

in the large hall at St. Columba 

Church and on Mondays in 

the Tweedie Halls, Linwood 

(previously held in Brookfield 

for 17 years) from 10am - 11am. 

Both these classes are available 

to all levels, from beginners to 

experienced practitioners. Both 

are friendly, lively environments. 

For further information please 

contact Janice on 07968 207272. 

Do Smartwatches influence health/ 

fitness attitudes? 

61 

GET SET FOR CURLFEST 

Intu Braehead Ice Rink, 8th October 2017 12 – 4pm 

CurlFest is an exciting new 

national campaign rolling out 

across Scotland this October. 

It’s a fantastic opportunity for 

ice rinks to open their doors to 

the whole community, raising 

awareness of the sport in 

Scotland and attracting potential 

new curlers. 

We hope it’ll provide an inclusive 

and engaging experience for 

everyone who gets involved – and, of course, that lots will return to a Try 

Curling session in the future. 

We’ve partnered with Cash for Kids, a wonderful and long established 

charity, helping to support children across Scotland. 

Each CurlFest event will be unique; involving everything from face painting, 

cake and most importantly, lots of fun. 

To find out more about what’s on in your area, please have a look at our 

link below: 

http://www.royalcaledoniancurlingclub.org/development/curlfest/ 

Within the health and fitness industry there’s an accelerating pace of technological 

development, and in recent years the most common wide-spread product 

is smartwatches. Regardless of makes and models, you see more and more 

people wearing them daily. As these become more common, cost-effective and 

fashionable, the question is, do they influence long-term behavioural change? 

I wear one myself, but, in my opinion, it takes a certain type of person to allow it to 

influence your attitude towards fitness and exercise. Anyone that has been there 

knows that when it starts to beep/vibrate to say you have completed your 10,000 

steps, or whatever your daily target is, you do feel a sense of achievement, it’s a 

natural human reaction. 

I have many types of clients that work with me, and many of them wear a 

smartwatch. I decided to ask two of them their opinions and behaviour changes 

since getting them. 

Client 1 has an active job and is in the gym 2/3 times a week. They said that 

the watch hasn’t actually increased their activity, but they do have a weekly 

competition with themselves to see if they have beat last week’s total step count. 

If they have that’s great, but if they haven’t they really aren’t too fussed about it. 

The watch itself is more of a fashionable statement and provides information that 

they find interesting. 

Client 2, has an inactive job and also goes to the gym 2/3 times a week. They said 

that since getting the watch it has made them more aware of how little they move 

when they are sitting at a desk all day. Now they actively seek to move more often 

in an attempt to achieve their daily step count. In this situation, the watch itself is 

actively making the individual move more than they normally would have. 

Looking at external research, there are a lot of conflicting answers. Some state 

a change in people’s habits and an 

increase in the amount of daily physical 

activity they do, predominately through 

walking. Alternative research shows that 

any change is short lived and abandoned 

within a month. 

Does your smartwatch change your 

physical activity habits and behaviours? 

Lesley 

For more information on personal training or 

nutrition contact me at lesley@fitsmartfitness. 

co.uk or visit my website at www.fitsmartfitness. 

co.uk 


62 

Kilmacolm Golf Club Ladies 

The Ladies Club Championship 

weekend was condensed to semi 

finals & finals on Sunday 20th 

August, because of flooding on 

Saturday 19th. The semifinalists 

were Clair Barclay, Marion 

Stewart, Megan Briggs & Jackie 

Sayers. Marion & Megan reached 

the finals, with Megan winning the 

Club Championship for the 13th 

successive year. Well done to 

Megan & to all who reached the weekend’s play. 

The Ladies Open Day on Thursday 24th August attracted 148 visitors to the 

course, playing Greensome Stableford. Ladies travelled from Fife, Carlisle, 

Dumfries & beyond! The sun shone & the players had a good day out at 

Kilmacolm. 

On 1st September, The Ladies Committee, 

a past Captain & 3 team organisers enjoyed 

a sunny round at West Kilbride. The views 

of Arran were breathtaking. The winning 

couple was Sara Bishop & Susan Reid 


Lochwinnoch Curling 

Club 

Ever fancied trying Curling? Now’s your chance. 

Come along to Greenacres Curling Rink, near 

Howwood on Saturday 7th October 2017 at 3pm. 

Lochwinnoch Curling Club are celebrating 190 years in 2017 and we’re 

inviting you along to the above “come and try” session. All you need 

to bring is warm clothing and a pair of trainers (that you didn’t walk in 

with!) 

For more information, please contact Jennie on 07752 431 135 

We look forward to welcoming you along. 

Great Scot, He’s Done It! 

Mark Beaumont in Aberdeen 

at end of Scotland coast to 

coast training cycle. 

Ladies Day [organised by 

the men!] on Saturday 2nd 

Sept, was a successful shot 

gun foursomes competition, 

followed by a buffet supper; 

enjoyed by all the ladies but especially the winners, Andy & Clair Barclay & 

runners up Lesley & Sam Handley. 

Drinks served by Rena at the 11th Hole helped some of us complete our 

round in good humour! 

The Megawatt Trophy played at Kilmacolm 

this year, hosting Gourock & Greenock 

teams of 3 on 3rd September was played 

on one of these wet days! The winners 

were the Kilmacolm players, Trish Brown, 

Morag Turner & Lesley Brown. Everyone 

seemed very happy when the game was 

over & a social lunch was served in the 

clubhouse! 

Football Camp Beith Trust 

Bigger challenges, more fun games and another fantastic trip has been 

organised. Places are limited so don’t miss out! 

Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm £50 for the week or £12 daily fee. 

*** After an amazing Hampden trip to end our summer camp, we have 

decided that we will take the participants to Rugby park on Saturday 

21st October to see Kilmarnock Vs Hibs in the SPFL Premiership match. 

Ticket and bus travel are included in the weekly price.*** 

Great Scot and ultra-endurance athlete, Mark Beaumont, has set a new 

Guinness World Record title, taking one third off the current world record 

(123) days for the fastest circumnavigation by bicycle, completing the 

challenge in under 80 days on the Artemis World Cycle. As if that wasn’t 

enough, en route, he also shattered the world record for the most miles 

cycled in a month. True #ScotSpirit! 

As Mark returns home to Edinburgh today, he credits the years of training in 

Scotland, ‘this wonderful wilderness’, from the tender age of 12, as inspiration 

for this epic challenge. Before setting out on the 80-day challenge, Mark 

did a final practice ride across Scotland. Argyll to Aberdeen, coast to coast, 

the ride was 240 miles and took 16 hours… the distance Mark cycled each 

day for 80 days during the Artemis World Cycle! 

Fancy trying the Scotland route yourself? Or even a portion of it? 

Here are some of the highlights! 

Rest and be Thankful, Argyll 

Rest and be Thankful divides Glen Kinglas from Glen Coe, the highest 

point on the A83. From the viewpoint of this famous beauty spot you can 

see the old valley road, engineered by General Wade during the subjection 

of Scotland following the Jacobite rebellion. It’s at the junction between 

the B828 and A83 where you can spy the words ‘REST & BE THANKFUL’ 

inscribed on a stone by the soldiers who built the road. 

Kenmore, Perthshire 

Kenmore is a beautiful village at the northern end of the 14-mile long Loch 

Tay. Idyllic for cycling as well as sailing, canoeing and fishing. The main 

attraction is the Scottish Crannog Centre, one of the country’s top heritage 

sites where you can discover what life was like over 2500 years ago! This 

reconstructed thatched wooden house is built on stilts over the water, with 

a gangway that would have been lifted up in the event of danger. 

Braemar, Aberdeenshire 

Surrounded by the fine Grampian Mountains and woodland scenery, 

Braemar is a haven for cyclists, climbers and wanderers. There are no 

less than 24 Munros (mountains over 3000 ft high) as well as over 65 miles 

of cycle routes and high level walks of varying length and difficulty. The 

ancient village of Braemar is home to Braemar Castle and the world-famous 

annual Braemar Gathering and Highland Games. 

For further information on cycling routes in Scotland, check out visitscotland. 

com 



Doors Open Days - thousands explore venues in Renfrewshire 

63 

Thousands turned out across Renfrewshire last month to visit the 

historic sights and locations which took part in the annual Doors 

Open Days event. 

Part of a worldwide event with over 50 countries taking part, Renfrewshire’s 

Doors Open Days is a celebration of the fantastic design and architectural 

history of the region. 

Visitors to Paisley were afforded the opportunity to spot some of the unique 

features of the town, including the Paisley Abbey gargoyles and ‘Porridge 

Bowl’ roof of the John Neilson Institute, as well taking a look inside a building 

they hope never to be in again – Paisley Sheriff Court. 

Great Scottish Run 

Sunday 1st October 2017 

The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run 10K - This course is a shorter adaptation of the half marathon that 

hugs the River Clyde and features some of Glasgow’s most iconic landmarks and buildings. 

Half Marathon - Starting in George Square the course will take you across the River Clyde, through Pollok and 

Bellahouston Park, before heading back for the grandstand finish on Glasgow Green. 

Super Saturday - From the toddler dash, to the family milers & junior heroes, we look forward to seeing your 

stars of the future enjoying our safe courses right in the city centre. 

http://greatscottishrun.com/events/ 

Those interested in the weaving history of the area had the opportunity 

to visit the Sma’ Shot Cottages and Tannahill’s Cottage – allowing a look 

inside the homes of both a 

typical weaver in the 18th 

Century and also the ‘Weaver 

Poet’ Robert Tannahill. 

Across the region, visitors 

had the chance to explore 

some of the outstanding visitor 

attractions which Renfrewshire 

has to offer. 

Renfrew Fire Station opened its doors to 

allow aspiring fire fighters a glimpse inside 

and a chance to see the equipment used 

in emergency situations in action; while 

the Grade ‘B’ listed Victory Baths in the 

town gave visitors a guided tour of the 

historic, and often rumoured to be haunted, 

building. 


For those who like to experience the great 

outdoors, Erskine’s Lamont Farm provided 

the perfect opportunity for families to meet 

some of the animals which live on the farm 

with handling sessions put on throughout 

the day. 

While at Castle Semple in Lochwinnoch, 

tours of the lookout tower gave visitors 

spectacular views across the loch and 

Garnock Valley. 

Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron 

took the opportunity to visit various places 

across Renfrewshire including a visit to 

learn more about Paisley’s bid for UK City 

of Culture at the bid base on Paisley High 

Street. 

Provost Cameron said: “Doors Open Days 

is a fantastic opportunity to visit those 

places across Renfrewshire we just never 

seem to get around to seeing. 

“I was delighted to see so many people 

taking up the chance, as I did, to explore 

the beautiful buildings and venues which 

make our area such an inviting place to 

visit. 

“This was just another part of a terrific 

year of events in the area and with our 

annual music, comedy and drama festival 

‘The Spree’ just a few weeks away, it 

is an exciting time to live, work or visit 

Renfrewshire.” 

The Spree festival takes place between 

13th - 22nd October and has yet another 

bumper line of talent set to grace the area. 

Information on who’s playing and how to 

buy tickets is available at: www.thespree. 

co.uk. 

For information on further events set 

to take place across Renfrewshire visit 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/events or www. 

Paisley2021.co.uk/events.

64 

TRADES AND SERVICES 

BUSINESS 


CHILDCARE 

Houston registered 

childminders. For an 

informal chat to find 

your best childcare, call 

Elizabeth Waddell T: 

01505 614925 

Kilmacolm/Quarriers area 

registered childminders. 

P/time or F/time vacancies 

for u-5’s and after 

school. 

T: 01505 873839. 

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY 

SITUATIONS VACANT 

MISCELLANEOUS 

ADVERTISE 

HERE FOR ONLY 

£18.00 PER 

MONTH (INCL. VAT) 

you can contact us 

@GryffeAds using 

#Advertizer 

or by email 

info@advertizer.co.uk or 

phone 01505 613340 



PROPERTY 

HOLIDAY HOMES 

MUSIC TUITION 

churches 

BRIDGE OF WEIR 

Freeland Church: Rev KN Gray BA 

BD. Morning Service 10.30am. 

Crèche, Sunday School, Lynx and 

Cornerstone. Evening Service 

7pm www.freeland.org.uk 

St Mary’s Episcopal Church, 

Johnston Rd, Bridge of Weir, 

PA11 3EE. Our Services are 

held every Sunday at 10am. On 

the first Sunday each month 

at 6pm we welcome all who 

enjoy the beauty of quietness 

and peace at “Sanctuary” our 

Contemplative Service. All who 

seek God in mindful enquiry, in 

beauty, in quietness and service 

to others, all who are tired 

of life or full of it, all who are 

confi dent or all who are afraid 

- indeed whoever you are - you 

are welcome here! http://www. 

heartlandsec.org/BoW/index. 

html Contact: Revd. Heller G.P 

01505 872961. 

St. Machar’s Ranfurly Church: 

Welcome to our Sunday services 

at 10.30 am with Junior Church 

and All Age services. For 

more information about our 

congregation please see www. 

stmacharsranfurlychurch. 

org.uk or find us on Facebook. 

Contact: Rev Hanneke Marshall 

01505 612975 Hanneke. 

Marshall@churchofscotland. 

org.uk 

Hope Hall: Sun 1pm Sunday 

School, 4.30pm Gospel Service; 

Mon 6.30pm Investigators for 

Kids, 8pm Bible Study and 

Prayer. 

ELDERSLIE 

Elderslie Kirk: Sunday service 

every week at 11am. Minister - 

Rev. Robin Allison. All welcome. 

Weekly meetings:- Monday 

Club every week from 12noon 

- 2.30pm. Light lunch and 

a varied activity programme. 

Midweek Fellowship will meet 

every Wed from 10.30am for 

Tea/Coffee followed by a short 

Service of Worship at 11am. 

HOWWOOD 

Howwood Parish Church. Minister 

Rev May Bell. Sunday Service 

and Sunday School. 10am each 

Sunday. Prayer meeting held 

at 3 Bowfield Way, Howwood, 

7.30pm on Tuesdays. 

ADVERTISE 

HERE FOR ONLY 

£18.00 PER 

MONTH (INCL. VAT) 

The Business 

Advertisements 

(Disclosure) Order 1977 

NOTICE TO 

ADVERTISERS 

The Law requires that 

Advertisers selling 

goods in the course 

of a business MUST 

include the word Trader, 

Dealer, Agent, Breeder 

or appropriate wording 

in the Advertisement to 

distinguish from private 

advertisers. 

HOUSTON 

Houston and Killellan Kirk 

Services Schedule. All 

Services conducted by Rev. 

Ian Bell unless otherwise 

stated. S.C.O.number. 

Sco12822. Sunday October 

1st Holy Communion Services. 

Morning - 11am Afternoon 

- 14pm Evening - 6.45pm. 

Our communion wine is non 

alcoholic apart from the 

common cup. Sunday 8th 

October - 11am - morning 

worship conducted by the Kirk 

Worship Team. Sunday 15th 

October - 11am - morning 

worship conducted by the Rev. 

Sandy MacDonald. Sunday 

22nd, 29th October - 11am 

Morning Worship. 

St Fillan’s, Main St, Houston: Sun 

Masses: Vigil (Sat) 5pm, 9.30am 

& 11am. Weekday Masses: Mon 

- Sat 9.30am. Rosary: Tue, Thurs 

& Sat 9.10am. Exposition: Mon, 

Wed & Fri 9.05am. Confessions: 

Sat 10 - 10.30am and after Vigil 

Mass. Baptism: By arrangement. 

Parish Priest: Rev. Joseph 

Burke. Pastoral Assistant: Sr. 

Mary Frances Collett, RNDM 

(Tel 01505 613514). Address: 

‘Abbotsfi eld’, St. Fillan’s, Main 

St, Houston, PA6 7EL. T. 01505 

612046. E. parish@stfi llan.org. 

uk www.stfi llan.org.uk 

Houston Baptist Church at Carrick 

Centre: 11am Family services 

with SS for children age 5 - 12; 

6pm Eve Service; Mid-week 

Home Bible Study; For more 

information contact; Rev. D 

Snelson 01505 612722. 

Church of the Nazarene: Village 

Hall, Main St, Houston PA6 

7EL. Rev. Benito S Coetzee. 

Family services at 10.30am 

with full toddler, children & youth 

activities running concurrently 

with the service. Youth meets 

at 6.30pm - 8pm on Sundays. 

Word and Table Quiet Service 

held from 9am - 9.30am every 

3rd Sunday. www.houston. 

nazarene.org.uk 

KILBARCHAN 

Kilbarchan Parish Church in 

October: Services continue at 

11am each Sunday throughout 

October, conducted by Rev. 

Stephen Smith. The services 

will take place in the hall during 

the work on the church roof. 

We continue to support the 

Paisley Food Bank each Sunday. 

Sunday School and the Crèche 

will meet in the small hall from 

10.45am each week. The 

service of Harvest Thanksgiving 

will take place on Sunday 

8th. The Sacrament of Holy 

Communion will be observed 

on Sunday 29th at 11am and 

2pm. ALL WELCOME TO ANY OF 

THESE SERVICES. For further 

information about the church 

and the organisations, please 

visit Kilbarchan Kirk online: 

www.kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk 

KILMACOLM 

Kilmacolm Old Kirk: Church of 

Scotland (Charity no. SC009291). 

www.kilmacolmoldkirk.org. 

uk. Minister Rev. Dr Peter 

McEnhill (01505 873174). 

Morning Worship – Sundays 

11am, all welcome Sunday 

School and Crèche available. 

Sòlas Bereavement Group, 2nd 

Thursday each month at 6.30pm 

in Kidston Hall. Kilmacolm Old 

and Kilmacolm St Columba are 

having United Services at 11am. 

During the month of August, 

they will be held in St Columba 

Church. 

St Columba Church of Scotland: 

(charity no. SC007992) Morning 

Worship Sundays at 11am. All 

welcome. Coffee/tea served in 

the hall after the service. 

Grace Church Kilmacolm: in 

association with Downavale 

Free Church of Scotland (Charity 

No: SCO38274) - Sunday Service 

at 10.30am in Kilmacolm Guide 

Hut, Woodrow Avenue, PA13 4QF 

- all welcome. 

St Colm’s Catholic Church, Smithy 

Brae Kilmacolm. Rev. Vincent 

Byrne. Family mass Sundays 

10am with children’s liturgy, 

followed by tea and coffee. 

Eucharistic service Thursdays 

11am. Rosar y Tuesdays 

6.30pm. Prayer group meets 

Thursdays 7.30pm. Further 

information and contact details 

www.stcolmsparish.co.uk. All 

welcome. 

Buddhist meetings: Buddhism 

of Nichiren Daishonin. Phone 

Margaret on 01505 871343. 

St Fillan’s Episcopal Church, Moss 

Road, Kilmacolm, PA13 4DL. 

Services on Sunday at 11.30am. 


CONTENT OF THE GRYFFE ADVERTIZER 

CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR 

CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER 

The Gryffe Advertizer is a magazine published by The Gryffe Advertizer Ltd 

Advertising throughout The Gryffe Advertizer: 

Defi nitions: “Standards” means the British Code of Advertising Practice 

and the provisions of any law applicable to advertising including, but not 

limited to, the Trade Descriptions Act, 1968, the Consumer Credit Act 

1974, the Control of Misleading Advertisements Regulations 1988, the 

Financial Services Act 1986, the Business Advertisement (Disclosure) 

Order 1977 and all amendments and replacements. 

It is hereby agreed that: 

• The placing by the Advertising Client of an Advertisement is deemed to 

be acceptance of these Conditions of Acceptance of Advertising. 

• All Advertisements in this Publication must not contravene the 

Standards. 

• Insertion of Advertisements and/or Editorial is strictly at the discretion 

of the Publisher. 

• The Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the 

Advertising Client as a result of any failure, negligence or omission by 

any party in the course of the distribution or circulation of the Publication 

in which the Advertisement is scheduled to appear. 

• In the event of any error, misprint or omission by the Publisher in 

the printing of an Advertisement, the Publisher will either re-insert 

the advertisement, adjust the cost or provide a refund. This does 

not apply if the Advertisement has been approved by the Advertising 

Client prior to publication. The total liability of the Publisher for such 

an occurrence shall not exceed the amount of a full refund for that 

particular Advertisement. 

• The Advertising Client agrees to indemnify the Publisher in respect 

of all costs, damages or other charges falling upon the Publisher as 

the result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the 

publication of the Advertisement, or any one or more of the series of 

Advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions 

supplied to the Publisher. 

• Readers are reminded that when purchasing items or services 

advertised in the Publication that the Publisher cannot be held in any 

way responsible for the quality or correctness of the items or services 

included in the Advertisement. 

Editorial throughout The Gryffe Advertizer: 

The opinions of the Contributors to this Publication are not necessarily 

the official views of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to edit 

or refuse any material submitted for publication. 

Wednesday: 10.30am Holy 

Communion. On the last Sunday 

of the month at 11.30am we 

welcome families to come and 

join us for our monthly Family 

Service. We are united by our 

belief in Jesus, who sustains 

and encourages us in all the ups 

and downs of life. Everyone is 

welcome to join us ! http://www. 

heartlandsec.org/KLM/index. 

html Contacts: Revd. Heller 

G.P 01505 872961 / Maureen 

Russell (Pastoral Assistant) 

01505 872905. 

LANGBANK 

Langbank Parish Church: Rev. Dr. 

Ken Forrest. Sunday Services 

10am with Sunday School, 

Crèche and young people’s 

group, the Welcomers. Tea/ 

coffee after the service. Church 

service starts at 10am. Come 

along and meet in the Hall 

from 9.50am. Charity No. 

SC015085. 

LOCHWINNOCH 

Parish Church: Rev. May Bell. 

11.30am Morning Service 

Sunday School and Crèche. 

Calder United Free Church: 

(Church Street, Lochwinnoch) 

Sunday: 11am Morning worship 

with Sunday School and Crèche. 

6.30pm Evening Fellowship 

group, 7.30pm ABC’s Teen 

group. Wed 6.30pm - 7.30pm. 

Spiritualist Church, Lochlip Rd. All 

services commence 7.30pm. 

QUARRIERS 

Mount Zion Church: Rev. Andy Lunn 

BSc, (01475 791282) Mount 

Zion Church, Law View Road, 

Quarriers Village, PA11 3FD. 

Sunday Worship: 10.30am, 

Bible Study and Prayer Meetings: 

Wednesday at 7pm and Friday 

at 10 am. “Mozzy” Youth Club 

Thursdays at 6.30pm for young 

people of high school age. Half 

night of prayer: 7pm – midnight, 

4th Friday of each month. Feel 

free to come along at any of 

these times. 

‘The Gatherin’ is at 7pm on the 

fourth Sunday of each month, at 

Mount Zion Church in Quarriers 

Village. The Gatherin’ for people 

to come together who hunger 

for more of the presence of the 

Lord and to be fed from His word. 

Please come and invite others: 

all welcome! 

65 

TRADES & SERVICES 

Black & White ads only 

Lineage: up to 20 words £13.00* 

Boxed ad: £7.50* per column cm 

PROPERTY & HOLIDAY HOMES 

CARS FOR SALE 

Lineage: up to 20 words £13.00* 

Boxed ad: £7.50* per column cm 

Photo: add £7.50* (colour) 

*all prices subject to VAT 

LOCAL INFORMATION 

community council 

Visitors are welcome at these monthly meetings. 

BISHOPTON: Primary School: 1st Thurs at 7.30pm 

www.bishoptoncouncil.com 

BRIDGE OF WEIR: Cargill Hall: 7pm in February, 

March, April, May, June, September, October(AGM), 

November, and December on the 1st Tuesday of 

the month. (No meetings July and August) 

www.bridgeofweir.org 

BROOKFIELD: Brookfield Village Hall: 7.30pm 

in February, April, June, August, October and 

December on 2nd Thursday of the month. 

HOUSTON: Carrick Centre: 3rd Wed at 7.30pm 

www.houstoncommcouncil@yahoo.co.uk 

HOWWOOD: Village Hall: 2nd Tues at 7.30pm. 

www.howwood.com/community-council.php 

KILBARCHAN: Steeple Hall: monthly at 7.30pm. 

www.kilbarchan.info/community_council.html 

KILMACOLM & QUARRIERS: Last Tues at 7.30pm, 

Kilmacolm Cargill Centre (NB: No meetings: July or 

Dec) www.kilmacolmcc.co.uk 

LANGBANK: Church Hall: 2nd Wed at 7.30pm 

LOCHWINNOCH: Bowling Club: 1st Tues at 7.30pm 

community halls to let 

Bridge of Weir, Freeland Church. Tel: 612245 

Brookfi eld, Village Hall. Tel: 335562 

Houston, Carrick Centre. Tel: 612203 / 331488 

Houston, Compass Centre. Tel: 615441 / 612617 

Kilbarchan, Guide Centre. Tel: 702758. 

Kilbarchan, Old Library Centre. Tel: 706070 

Kilmacolm, Cargill Centre. Tel: 873994 

Kilmacolm, Brownie/Guide Hut. Tel: 874428 

Kilmacolm, Masonic Hall. Tel: 873059 

Linwood Masonic Hall. Tel: 07825 222944 

Please add your community hall details to our list - 

email to info@advertizer.co.uk 

local councillors 

RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Ward 8 - Johnstone South & Elderslie: Jacqueline 

Cameron, John Hood, Alistair Mackay, Andy Steel 

Ward 9 - Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood 

& Lochwinnoch: Derek Bibby, Bill Binks, Andy Doig, 

Emma Rodden 

Ward 10 - Houston, Crosslee, Brookfield & Linwood: 

Audrey Doig, Alison Jean Dowling, Scott Kerr, James 

Sheridan 

Ward 11 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank: 

Natalie Don, James MacLaren, Colin McCulloch 

Ward 12 - Erskine & Inchinnan: Tom Begg, Michelle 

Campbell, Jim Harte, Iain Nicolson 

INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk 

Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (includes Kilmacolm & 

Quarriers): Christopher Curley, Stephen McCabe, 

David Wilson

66 

ITEMS FOR SALE 

BABY EQUIPMENT 

Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier 

Original. Good Condition. 

Smoke and pet free home. 

£15. Tel: 01505 872800 

Silver Cross Surf carrycot 

and rain cover (no base). 

Excellent condition. 

Smoke free, pet free 

home. £30. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Tomy walkabout classic 

baby monitors as new. 

£15. Tel: 01505 690426. 

Phillips AVENT microwave 

bottle steriliser. 

Excellent condition, with 

instructions. Smoke free, 

pet free home. £5. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

Phillips AVENT combined 

baby food steamer and 

blender with instructions 

and recipe booklet. Good 

condition. Smoke free, 


01505 672175. 

Fisher Price Jungle 

Jumperoo. Smoke free, 

pet free home. £30 ono. 

Tel: 07989 699468 

Fisher Price Rainforest 

Jumperoo. Good 

Condition. Smoke and 


01505 872800 

Lindam stair gate easy 

fit premium and one 

(removable) side extension 

measuring 28cm. Suitable 

for openings from 75cm 

up to 109cm. Used but 

good condition. £15. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

CLOTHES & SHOES 

Marks and Spencer men’s 

charcoal suit. Chest 48ins, 

waist 38ins, inside leg 

31ins. Wool rich blend, 

excellent condition. £20. 

Tel: 01505 672175. 

Men’s Dehavilland black 

coat. Wool/cashmere 

mix, hardly worn and in 

excellent condition. Chest 

48ins. £50. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Men’s M&S waxed casual 

coat in dark green. Size 

large. As new. £50. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

Van dal ladies low wedge 

shoes size 5, white 

leather. £22. Tel: 07856 

610671. 

Men’s full length Dannimac 

raincoat in grey. 

Removable lining. Size 

large. Good condition. 

£25. Tel: 01505 672175. 

Men’s 3/4 length sleeve 

WESC Beach t-shirt in 

khaki and white. Size 

XXL. As new. £10. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

Men’s brand new original 

Penguin casual trousers 

(label still attached) 38ins 

waist. £20. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Men’s brand new West 

Beach t-shirt. Size XL. 

£10. Tel: 01505 672175. 

Brand new men’s Ralph 

Lauren navy v-neck 

jumper. Size XL. £40. 

Tel: 01505 672175. 

HOUSEHOLD & 

GARDEN 

Single divan bed with pull 

out frame and additional 

mattress, making into 

double bed. Perfect 

condition. £40. Tel: 

07966 131206. 

Four new cushions 22” x 

14” (John Lewis) with 

Duck feather pads. £20 

(cost £60). Tel: 01505 

614503. 

John Lewis cot bed duvet 

cover and pillowcase 

sets one with farmyard 

animals, one with giraffe 

on it 100% cotton. Used 

but good condition, smoke 

free home. £10 each. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

Pair of tall cream fabriccovered 

cylindrical lamps 

(approx 115cm tall 

and 15cm in diameter). 

Ideal for bedside. Good 

condition, smoke free 

home. £30. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Retro style oak and veneer 

coffee table from the 

House by John Lewis 

range. Handy shelves 

and drawers for storage. 

Approx H38cm x W110cm 

x D60cm. Excellent 

condition, smoke free 

home. £170. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Oven table top Morphy 

Richards 2 hotplates fan 

oven. £25. Tel: 07791 

688240. 

New Toilet, push button 

cistern, self closing seat. 

£50 ono. Tel: 01505 

335211. 

Hoover Cylinder vacuum, 

hardly used, like new. 

£20. Tel: 07490 168579. 

Garden Groom midi safety 

hedge trimmer with 

volume bag attachment. 

Good condition. £40. Tel: 

01505 690426. 

Fire surround, light oak. 

Black Marble speckled 

back with matching base 

- (L) 52” x (H) 44.5”, shelf 

8”. £55. Tel: 07882 

984824. 

VAX Rapide deluxe carpet 

washer with upholstery 

tool. Good condition. 

£40. Tel: 01505 690426. 

2 chrome/black swivel gas 

lift bar stools. VGC. Non 

smoking house. £25 the 

pair. Tel: 01505 329075. 

PETS 

Guinea Pig Hutch for 

sale. Good condition. 

Dimensions - W 83cm / D 

33cm / H41cm. £20 ono 

Tel: 07552 752660. 

SPORTS 

Bike frames and various 

bits - offers when seen. 

Tel: 07791 688240. 

Head Tennis Racket with 

cover, for age 5-8 yrs 

approx, size 23. £6 ono. 

Tel: 07814 408192. 

Bicycle VIKING touring road 

bike traditional. £50. Tel: 

07791 688240. 

Bicycle Raleigh Aluminium 

Frame high quality front 

suspension. £50. Tel: 

07791 688240. 

Bicycle DUTCH make large 

frame hub gears and 

brakes classic collectors 

bike, well used. £50. Tel: 

07791 688240. 

B i c y c l e AT B u n i s e x 

suspension front and rear. 

£30. Tel: 07791 688240. 

Bicycle Hybrid, suit 5’6 to 6’. 

Very good condition. £90. 

Tel: 07413 750114. 

Dinesse large Matt black 

ski/snowboard helmet. 

Good condition. £20. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

Universal ladies bike 

(purple), 21 inch frame, 

18 gears. Good condition. 

£50. Tel: 01505 690426. 

Golf Bag. Taylormade, 

Silver/Grey, large size with 

six club compartments. 

Yours for a donation of 

£20 (min) which will be 

gifted to The Beatson 

Cancer Care. Tel: 01505 

872717. 

TOYS/GAMES/DVD 

Chillafi sh balance trike in 

white and blue with black 

handlebars. Used but 

good condition. £15. Tel: 

01505 672175. 

OTHER ITEMS 

Vintage Binoculars teltsar 

coated lenses, in a leather 

black case. £18. Tel: 

07856 610671. 

Halfords car power point 

12V DC To 230V AC. 

Used but good condition. 

£12. Tel: 01505 672175. 

Galvanised steel ash bucket 

10 litre. £4. Tel: 01505 

672175. 

Workshop gas heater, 

Clarke Contractor GRH35 

Good condition with 

Propane bottle. £80. Tel: 

07961 284886. 

Trailer Light Board, 1.4m 

wide with 6m of cable 

£10. Tel: 07961 284886. 

Vintage Amber Bracelet . 

£22. Tel: 07856 610671. 

Vintage amber cognac 

necklace 80g. £60. Tel: 

07856 610671. 

Hand-delivered every month 

to households & businesses 

in Bridge of Weir, Brookfield, 

Crosslee, Elderslie, Houston, 

Howwood, Kilbarchan, 

Kilmacolm, Lochwinnoch, 

Langbank and Quarriers 

Village 

Extra copies available from 

many local outlets in all 

villages plus Bishopton, 

Erskine & Johnstone. 

Mantua President 1750 

English frigate period, 

1:60 scale wooden kit 

792. Length 520mm. 

Brand new, unused and 

unopened item. £50. Tel: 

01505 690426. 

Royal & Langnickel all 

media easel artist 150 

piece set. Never been 

used, still in original box. 

£50. Tel: 01505 873140. 

Artists studio easel, hardly 

used and still in its original 

canvas bag. £20. Tel: 

01505 873140. 

Video HD drone with HD 

built in camera 2.5 GHZ, 

new in packaging. £60. 

Tel: 07856 610671. 

Brand new steel car wheel 

6JX15H2 and new Jinyu 

tyre 185/60 R15. Stored 

as spare wheel only. £80. 

Tel: 07736 067169. 

WANTED ITEMS 

Old records Wanted 45`s 

& LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 

07710 777571. 

Westclox Big Ben alarm 

clock. Tel: 07756 

981917. 

Cash paid for Music CDs 

(a few or a lot). Tel: 

0141 882 5594 or 07765 

115347. 

Local lily grower requires 

the use of a greenhouse/ 

polytunnel in Kilmacolm 

area in return for light 

gardening duties. Tel: 

Vince 01505 872082. 

FREE CYCLE 

Wooden trestle table(6 x 

2ft top 30in high) folding 

legs. Free to pick up. Tel: 

01505 321908. 

Childs white bed guard 

Wooden suitable from 

moving from a cot to single 

bed. Excellent condition. 

Tel: 07814 408192. 


you can contact us 

@GryffeAds using 

#Advertizer 

or by email 

info@advertizer.co.uk or 

phone 01505 613340 

The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977 

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS 

The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the course of a 

business MUST include the word Trader, Dealer, Agent, Breeder or 

appropriate wording in the Advertisement to distinguish from private 

advertisers. 

ADVERTISING 

sales & wants ad rates: 

UP TO £200 ....... FREE 

£201 to £500 ..... £5.00 

£501 to £1000 ... £10.00 

OVER £1000 ..... Call for details. 

Use our Sales & Wants form and post to 

The Gryffe Advertizer, Neva Place, 

Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN. 

or email your items to info@advertizer.co.uk 

The Business Advertisements (Disclosure) Order 1977 

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS 

The Law requires that Advertisers selling goods in the 

course of a business MUST include the word Trader, 

Dealer, Agent, Breeder or appropriate wording in the 

Advertisement to distinguish from private advertisers. 



ADVERTIZERS - A TO Z 

67 

Accom/Hotel & B&B 

Glenorchy Lodge Hotel . . . . . . 41 

Accountants & Financial 

Affluent Financial Planning . . 24 

Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 

CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 

Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 

Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 

Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 

Architectural Services 

Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7 

Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Art, Gifts & Flowers 

Freelance Florist . . . . . . . . . 46 

Automotive Services 

AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 

ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 

Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31 

Bathrooms 

Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7 

G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6 

Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17 

Bedrooms 

Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13 

Blacksmith & Metalwork 

McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 2 

Building Services 

A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5 

B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5 

Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6 

Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3 

DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

Forefront Scaffolding . . . . . . 6 

I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2 

James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 12 

JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11 

KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,4 

Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 14 

M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3 

MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 10 

Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 47 

SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2 

SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 15 

Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 30 

Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 53 

Business Services 

Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 26 

Catering 

The Pavilion Tearoom . . . . . . . 15 

Cleaning & PowerWash 

CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 17 

Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14 

Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,4 

Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6 


Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 

Coffee Shops 

Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 17 


Computer, IT & Web 

ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 

Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 


Driveways 

A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Driving Instructors 

AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14 

Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 

BY CATEGORY 

November ‘17 Issue: 

• Deadline: 13 October 

• Delivery: 27 October 

Education 

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 55 

Electricians 

Delta Electrical Services . . 12 

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 

MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 

Entertainment 

Highland Hustle . . . . . . . . . . . 54 

Fencing 

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 


Firewood & Logs 

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,36 

Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 44 


W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

Funeral Services 

Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

John Roach Funeral Directors . . 47 

Garage Doors & Gates 

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Garden Service & Design 

3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 33 

A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 37 

Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 33 


Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 33 

DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 

Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 32 

Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 37 


M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 35 

Matt Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 

R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 32 

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

West of Scotland Landscape . . 32 

Gas & Heating Services 

A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15 

C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 4 

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 2 

Jack Murphy Plumbing & Heating . . 9 

Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 

Glazier 

1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3 

Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 

JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 2 

TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Hairdressers & Barbers 

Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 44 

Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 45 

Health, Beauty & Fitness 


Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Classical Ballet Classes . . . 61 

Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 

Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 9 

FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 61 

Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 


Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 47 

Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 11 

LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 

Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 18 

New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 

NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 6 

Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 43 

Wellcentred UK . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 

Home Hardware 

Gibb Stuart . . . . . .. . . . . . . 14,15,16,23 

Home Improvements 

Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 


Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk 

Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Revamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 

Home Interiors 

Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5 



Home Security 

Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 26 

Joiners 


CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 12 



JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 


McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 




TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14 

Kilt & Dress Hire 

Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 3 

Kitchens 







Leisure & Recreation 

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Club . . 59 

Locksmiths 

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Painters & Decorators 

A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 16 

Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 11 

David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 

James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 

John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 

John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Matt Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Paul Brady Painter & Decorator . . 15 

Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

Pest Control 

RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Pet Services & Training 

Husse Pet Food . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 

Pawz and Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 

PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 

Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 39 

Strathgryffe Dog Walks . . . . . 38 

Plasterers 

Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 11 

Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 13 



Matt Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Plumbers 




GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 



JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

December ‘17 Issue: 

• Deadline: 10 November 

• Delivery: 24 November 


Property, Sales & Let 

Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 27 

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1 

Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Penny Lane Homes . . . . . . . . . . 40 

Removals 

@ease Removals & Transport . . 6 

The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Restaurant & Bars 


Retail 


Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,16,23 

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 40 

R o o fi n g 












Solicitors 

Affinity Family Law Experts . . 8 


Special Occasions 

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Sports Clubs & Events 


Stoves 

Iron House Stoves Limited . . 13 


Taxis & Minicoach hire 

ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31 

Tiling 

Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 

Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Travel Agents 

Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

Tree Surgeon 

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 


LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,36 

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

TV & Satellite 

Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 3 

Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 

Upholstery Services 




P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 8 

Window Cleaners 




Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15 

Window, Consv & Repair 



TD Cameron . . . . . . . . 2 

Pick up a Copy 

Bishopton: Post Office, 

Woodrow’s Store, 

Keystore, Library, 

Ingliston Country Club 

Bridge of Weir: Gibb 

Stuart, Bernie’s Cafe, 

Lochnagar, The Bridge, 

Library (Cargill Centre) 

Erskine: Garden Centre, 

Library, Sports Centre, 

Swimming pool 

@ease Removals & Transport . . 6 


3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 33 

A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 16 


A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 37 

A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 


ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Affinity Family Law Experts . . 8 

Affluent Financial Planning . . 24 


AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1 

AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14 

Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5 

Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 33 

ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 


B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5 


Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 7 


Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 


Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 26 





Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 13 

Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 

CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15 

Classical Ballet Classes . . . 61 

CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 


Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5 

Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 27 

ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 

Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 11 

Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 

Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Conservatory Conv & Windows . . Bk 

Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 33 

David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3 

Decorus Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 

Delta Electrical Services . . 12 

Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 3 

DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 36 



Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 


Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 

Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . 9 

Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15 

FitSmart Fitness . . . . . . . . . . 61 

Forefront Scaffolding . . . . . . 6 

Freelance Florist . . . . . . . . . 46 


Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 32 

GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

Gibb Stuart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,15,16,23 


Glenorchy Lodge Hotel . . . . . . 41 

Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15 

Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31 


Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 

Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 3 

Houston: Co-op, Carrick 

Centre, Post Office, 

Newsagent 

Howwood: Village Store, St 

Vincent’s Hospice 

Johnstone: Henderson 

Kilts, Papa Mac’s, Library 

Kilbarchan: Sheridan’s 

Store, Campbell’s, 

Newsagents, Bobbins, 

Old Library Centre 


Husse Pet Food . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 




Iron House Stoves Limited . . 13 



James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3 



JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 

John Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

John Roach Funeral Directors . . 47 

Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31 


Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3 

Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 47 

Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 11 



Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3 


LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 

Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

Linda Stewart - Slimming World . . 18 

LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33,36 


M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 35 

MAS Electrical & Security . . 2 

Matt Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Matthews Cleaning Services . . 15 


McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14 


Miller BioFuels Ltd . . . . . . . . 44 

MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 

New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10 

Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 45 

NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 6 

Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2 



Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 19 

P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 8 

Paul Brady Painter & Decorator . . 15 

Paul Ferguson - Confidence . . 7 

Pawz and Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 

Penny Lane Homes . . . . . . . . . . 40 

PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 

Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1 

Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5 

Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk 

R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 32 

Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Revamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 

Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 39 


Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 43 

St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 55 

Stewart Independent Financial . . 1 

Strathgryffe Dog Walks . . . . . 38 



TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

The Bridge, Bridge of Weir . . 40 


The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 


Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 35 

Wellcentred UK . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 

West of Scotland Landscape . . 32 

Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 14 

Kilmacolm: Newsagent, 

Pieri’s, Cross Café, 

Gibb Stuart, Cargill 

Centre, Library 

Langbank: Finlaystone 

Visitor Centre 

Lochwinnoch: Keystore, 

McKillop Centre, Library, 

Castle Semple Centre, 

Newsagent 

Quarriers: Three Sisters 

Bake

68 

t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk 

you can contact us @GryffeAds using #Advertizer 

or by email info@advertizer.co.uk or phone 01505 613340 

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