INSIGHT Magazine - Issue 4

INSIGHT
ISSUE 4
FREE
A lifestyle magazine for
Renfrewshire and Inverclyde
FASHION
FOOD
FAMILY
FEATURES
REVIEWS

INSIGHT
Sister Magazine to the Gryffe Advertizer
p14
Family + Outdoors
4 Primal Castaway Adventure
6 Walk: The Whangie
8 A Day Out to... Strathblane
10 4 Summer Festivals
Fashion
18 Natural Selection
Features
14 Elaine C. Smith Interview
20 Ed McCardie Interview
Homes + Tech
23 Coming in Loud + Clear
24 The Walls Came Tumbling Down
26 Your Space... Reimagined
30 The Honda CR-V
p18
p23
Hello all....
Our cover guy this issue is the brooding Paul McCusker - Operations
Manager of Primal Adventures - a luxury wilderness adventure company
making the most of our incredible countryside and coastal areas. On page
4 we take a sneak peak at one of their castaway adventures that is sure to
awaken your inner Bear Grylls.
We’ve crammed so much blinking culture into this issue we bring you
not one but two interviews. We had the great pleasure of talking to the
inimitable Elaine C. Smith about her National Theatre of Scotland acting
debut in Red Dust Road - a dramatization of the memoir by poet and
novelist, Jackie Kay.
And we also caught up with Houstonbased
writer and producer Ed McCardie,
who talks to us about his career writing
and produing some of the most exciting
TV shows of the last decade.
Happy summer, folks. Rona & Anna xx
Contact Us
t
m
e
w
01505 613340
07521 651936
info@advertizer.co.uk
www.advertizer.co.uk/insight
1st Floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part
without written permission is strictly prohibited. Insight
Magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited
materials. The views and opinions by contributors
in this magazine may not represent the views of the
publishers. Insight Magazine takes no responsibility for
claims made by advertisements in this publication.
Cover Image © @JohnAlexanderPhotography
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Primal Castaway
Imagine waking up
surrounded by fresh
coastal air to the sound
of the lapping waves
with nothing but a
tarp above. You take a
moment to appreciate
the view before wriggling
out of your warm
sleeping bag...
Images © @JohnAlexanderPhotography
This is just one of the many awesome
experiences you’ll be having on the Primal
Castaway Adventure.
The trip begins at Scott’s restaurant at Largs
Yacht Haven at 09:00 on day 1. Here’s what to
expect.
Day 1: Arrive and Sail
Arriving at the marina, you’ll meet your local
host and hop aboard their 43-foot yacht. After
a quick safety briefing, it’s time to set sail. You
will be charting a course down the narrow sea
channel separating the Isle of Bute from the
Cowal peninsula known as the Kyles of Bute - a
National Scenic Area of immense beauty. There is
plenty of opportunity to spot sealife and take in
the breathtaking views on this five hour journey
which culminates on a remote island - your home
for the next three days.
Once ashore you’ll spend time with your guide
exploring, building a camp and learning some
essential survival skills.
Day 2: Coastal Survival Training
During the day you will learn a great range of essential
skills like foraging for wild food, building fires, finding
fresh water, creating shelters, fishing skills, setting
traps and preparing wild food. After a great day
exploring the island’s bounty it’s time to put your skills
to the test preparing the day’s foraged food. After
dinner, there is time to relax around the campfire,
swapping stories and gazing up at the stars.
Day 3: Departure
After another seaside breakfast it’s time to get
back home and today, you will be leaving in style.
Simulating a real survival situation, you’ll build a signal
fire and await your rescue.
Help comes in the form of a high-speed rib speedboat.
You’ll be whisked away on an exciting journey back
to the marina where you’ll bid a fond farewell to your
guides and fellow travelling companions.
www.primal-adventures.com for more info.
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Family +
Outdoors
Walk: The Whangie
Stirlingshire
Distance: 3 miles
Time: 1 and a half hours
Difficulty: Easy/moderate in places
Points of Interest: Rock formations, spectauclar views
Pub: Kirkhouse Inn in Strathblane for after walk refreshments
Start the walk from Queen’s View car park on the Stockiemuir Road
(A809). Go over the stile in the car park wall, follow the path over railway
sleepers and uphill towards a conifer plantation where you cross a ladder
type stile. The path divides here - take the right hand path which runs
below the crags. There are several paths, but follow the lowest and this
will bring you round to the Whangie, giving an excellent view towards
Ben Lomond and the hills to the north. The Whangie is popular with rock
climbers, offering a variety of short climbs. Follow the path through the
Whangie and round the contour of the hill. Burncrooks Reservoir can be
seen to the right. In a short distance, take the path going off to the right
and follow it up hill to the triangulation point on Auchineden hill (height
375m). Return by the same route.
Images from clockwise: Stephen Sweeney, Sarah Charlesworth and Lairich
Rig - CC BY-SA2.0 wikimediacommons
Map and text courtesy of Strathblane Community Council
The Whangie is a strange
geological phenomenon,
the result of “glacial
plucking” caused by
extreme temperatures
which froze the slabs
of rock to the glacier.
As the glacier moved,
it “plucked” the hillside,
causing a split, leaving the
rock walls rising sheer on
either side of the gap.
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A Day Out to… Strathblane
Photo © Ed McCabe
Nestled at the foot of the Campsie Fells, Strathblane is one of Stirlingshire’s prettiest villages. Although
only 25 minutes from Glasgow by car, it feels very rural. The views are wonderful and there is plenty of
great outdoorsy stuff to do with friends and family. A perfect day-trip or weekend destination.
Wild Swimming at Abbie’s Loch
A group of hardcore women take a dip in this pretty loch just about every
week in summer. Most without wetsuits. The stunning backdrop might just
take your mind off what is sure to be a very ‘refreshing’ experience! I’m
told once you’re in, it’s lovely. (Also known as Drumbrock Loch.)
The Whangie
A dramatic walk in the Kilpatrick hills that is perfectly possible with
children as small as 5. You pass through a strange rock passageway that,
as legend has it, was formed by the devil flicking its tail! Check out page 6
for more info on this walk.
Mugdock Country Park
With two castles, a loch, an adventure playground and lots of open space
for dogs and children to run about, this is a popular place for families. The
views, again, are outstanding and you can walk for miles. It’s free to park
and free entry. Bike hire available too.
Glengoyne Distillery
Described by some as Scotland’s most beautiful distillery, it sits at the
foot of the distinctive Dumgoyne Hill. Why not enjoy a (steep) scramble to
the top, take in the wonderful views, then reward yourself with a dram at
the bottom? Many different types of tours are available. Most should be
booked in advance.
The Kirkhouse Inn
New owners have breathed new life into the Kirkie (as it’s known)
making it a really special village pub with excellent food. The chefs (one
with experience working in a Michelin restaurant) pride themselves on
sourcing the best local ingredients wherever possible and it’s the perfect
post walk (or swim!) place for a drink and some top quality scran. It also
boasts 15 newly refurbished bedrooms – so why not make a
weekend of it?
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4
Family
Festivals
By Rona Simpson
I thought I was going to be
one of those carefree parents
who wore billowing skirts with
children skipping merrily to
and fro – flowers in our hair.
Turns out, I’m not...
Kendal Calling © George Harrison
We are only just emerging from the sleep deprivation years (at ages 4
and 7). I flit between states of mildly crotchety to wildly neurotic. But, I
am having the first stirrings that I might like to take the smalls to a festival.
Let’s see which ones are least likely to end in a four way family divorce.
1. Doune the Rabbit Hole - 19-21 July
Set in the heart of the Trossachs, this is becoming a firm family favourite.
It was included in the Guardian’s top five family festivals a few years back.
Kudos. It has ‘kids’ only’ toilets, plus a huge variety of kid’s performances,
and discos. It attracts a cool crowd. Highlights this year include: The
Damned, Sister Sledge and The Wailers. dounetherabbithole.co.uk
2. Kendal Calling - 25-28 July
Get your roar on because this year there is a dino theme at Kid’s Calling
– a section of the festival devoted entirely to your little darlings! There are
a huge variety of performances (including Cbeebies’ Alex Winters), music,
craft workshops, circus skills and so much more. Penrith is only 2.5 hours
away and the lakes are beautiful, so this could even form part of your
summer hols. Highlights include: Tom Jones, Orbital, Courteeners, Nile
Rogers & Chic. kendalcalling.co.uk
4. Tartan Heart Festival - 2-4 Aug
From only 200 people partying in a field in 2004, Tartan Heart in
Inverness now attracts more than 20,000 folk. Highlights for this year
include Elbow, Tom Odell and Jonny Marr. There is a great, if pricey,
‘glamping’ option if lugging a tent about with the fam seems too much
effort. Under 12s go free. tartanheartfestival.co.uk
Right, I’m away to dig out that billowy skirt – and possibly a ukelele!
Kendal Calling - The Wailers © Benjamin Paul
3. Millport Country Music Festival - 30 Aug-1 Sept
Once off the boat, jump on the local bus and it will stop directly outside
the grounds of Garrison House where the festival takes place. There’s a
wide range of activities for kids of all ages. Maverick Magazine called it:
“The beating heart of country music in Scotland”.
millportcountrymusic.com
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The Benefits of Gymnastics for Kids
1. Great for Overall Health
If your child is more active, they are less likely to become over-weight
or develop heart disease in later life. It improves co-ordination, strength
and flexibility.
2. Better Co-ordination
Spacial awareness and balance improves. Your brain and body become
more symbiotic.
3. Develops Sportsmanship
Despite it being an individual sport, it begins as a group learning
environment. You will cheer on, and be cheered on by, your pals.
4. Builds Confidence
The sense of achievement in mastering a new physical feat goes a long
way in building self-esteem in children.
5. It’s Great Fun!
Who doesn’t like flipping about on trampolines and swinging from
high bars then dropping into foam pits?
Why not give it a go? Bookings now being taken at the simply
fabulous Twisters Acadamy in Port Glasgow. My two have both
been and I can say that I have been super impressed by the level
of organisation and the facilities. Ps. they do adult classes too!
More info here: twistersga.co.uk
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INSIGHT | 13

Interview
Elaine C. Smith is a national treasure. So it
was HUGELY embarrassing when I had to text
her after the interview we’d done saying I had
lost the recording and could we redo it. I was
downstairs berating myself for being an idiot,
when I heard my phone vibrating... It couldn’t
be, could it?? Almost throwing one of the
children out of the way I galloped up the stairs…
“Hello?”
“Hello daaarlin’, it’s Elaine C. Smith”
What an absolute legend! Here she is
talking to me about the part she plays in the
dramatization of Scotland’s Makar Jackie Kay’s
wonderful memoir – Red Dust Road.
By Rona Simpson
The story of Red Dust Road sees a young Jackie Kay navigating
the challenges of growing up as a mixed-race adopted Scot in
1970s Glasgow. Through her journey to find her birth parents,
Jackie discovers that inheritance is about much more than
genes: that we are shaped by songs as much as by cells and that
what triumphs, ultimately, is love. One reviewer describes the
book as a love letter to her adoptive parents – Helen and John
Kay. Elaine agrees with this description.
Can you explain to our readers a wee bit about
Helen – Jackie Kay’s adoptive mother – who you are
playing in Red Dust Road?
I just think she is a remarkable woman, with an amazing amount
of compassion and heart and these days when people with her
politics are seen as zealots and a bit mad, it’s refreshing to see
them presented in such a compassionate and rounded way.
[Jackie Kay’s parents were members of the communist party –
not such an unusual thing back in the 60s in Glasgow.]
Helen and her husband John had very strong convictions
of how the world should be. But very often these [left wing]
people are presented as narrow, hard edged, humourless types; Jackie
Kay blows that out the water. Helen is such a warm, very funny, intelligent,
compassionate, political woman. She’s remarkable, not just to have done what
she has done in her life politically, but to have earned that love from Jackie
and her brother… I mean, it’s just a wonderful story to give out into the world.
You told me in the last interview that you knew the family?
Yes. I knew them from years ago. John and Helen were huge figures in my
early career and when I was with 7:84 Theatre Company and ‘Wildcat’ John
was on the board. I was very involved with the actor’s trade union and they
were people I would see socially all the time, and, of course, that was where
I first met Jackie. Everyone would know the kids because there were very
few mixed-race children around at the time. Everyone loved them and paid
attention to them, whether they liked that or not!
(Through a chance meeting in Edinburgh many years previously, Jackie and
Elaine had remembered each other and struck up a friendship.)
I texted Jackie and told her that I had been cast and accepted the role. And
she replied saying that the one thing her mum kept asking was “Who’s playing
ME?” And I just said, “Well, I hope she’s not disappointed!” [Elaine laughs.]
14 | INSIGHT

Are you nervous about playing a character that you
know and who means a lot to you?
I think you always want to be respectful. But as an actor what you
do is play what’s on the page. If someone else had written it and
made Helen and John out to be zealots or ogres or whatever, I’d
find that to be much more difficult, but Helen is just a beautiful
part. It has been written with such love and care and so accurately.
You just want to do a good job, more than anything.
In the book when Jackie goes looking for her biological
parents, her (adoptive) mum is excited by the prospect
of this ‘investigation’. I’m not sure all parents would
react in this way. Many might feel quite threatened.
What is it about Helen that allows herself to feel so
energised about the prospect?
She was an adventurous and joyful person. I also think Helen had
done the work on herself. She was prepared for the day when
Jackie would become curious and want to find her birth parents.
What Helen tells Jackie over and over is that John and her were
the lucky ones. That they were lucky that they had a choice
and they chose to have her and her brother. And that sadly her
biological parents probably had no choice. Helen, humanitarian
to her core, can put herself in other’s shoes. She has huge
compassion. And her position with her children, and other people,
came always from love.
Is the Glasgow Jackie grew up in different to the
Glasgow of today? Are we better or worse in our
treatment of those who look or seem different to us?
I think the messages that are being circulated are much more
tolerant and open and that’s wonderful. But I remember that at
the height of asylum seekers being brought to Glasgow, they took
a mass of people who didn’t really know the culture, who looked
different, and put them into one of the poorest areas of the city,
amongst people who had very little, and then we start wondering
why people are going, “Hang on, why do they have a washing
machine… why do they have a flat and ma daughter cannae
get a flat?” You’ve got to understand where those feelings of
resentments come from too.
What I love now in Glasgow is how many Asian, Afro-Caribbean
or mixed-race folk have broad Glasgow accents. Now that is what
is wonderful. That makes me smile. That is not a group of people
who are segregated. I find it difficult to cope with people telling me
that these are groups of people who don’t want to mix. I mean look
at what we did. We went into India and ran the place. We weren’t
socializing with the local Indian people, were we? I think we need
to reflect on our own behaviour a lot of the time.
I think the Glasgow that Jackie grew up in, it was more to do with her
being ‘other’, ‘different’. There’s that Scottish thing that always makes
me laugh, of my father’s generation, which was to immediately mention
you were a different colour. And I think they thought by doing that they
werenae racist. “Where are you actually from?” he’d say. And they’d say,
“Motherwell.” And he’d say, “Naw, naw… I mean where are your people
from?” [Elaine laughs] There are stories like this in the play and I love
the way Jackie writes about the racism with humour… but also with a
level of understanding.
I’m happy that there are so many different colours of faces around in
Scotland now. I think we outwardly put a much more ‘tolerant’ face on
things, but whether we’re there or not... there’s probably work to be
done. And that is why I think this play is so powerful.
Were you already a fan of Jackie’s work before reading the
book?
Do you know I did not make the connection until years later that
Jackie Kay – the great poet and writer – was the same wee Jackie Kay,
Helen and John’s Jackie, that I had known! I had it vaguely in the back
of my mind that Jackie had gone onto university, but it wasn’t until
relatively recently that I discovered it was the same Jackie. Lookin
at the back of one of her books and I was like, “It’s Jackie!!!” OH MY
GOD!” And yes, I love her work. Absolutely. I think she writes with
such beauty, humour and truth.
“
I think we outwardly put a much more
‘tolerant’ face on things, but whether we’re
there or not... there’s probably work to be
done. And that is why I think this play is so
powerful.
”
Why will audiences love the story of Red Dust Road?
I just think it is beautiful tale. Scottish audiences love a good story. It is
a wonderful tale with joy, heartbreak and lots of humour in it and that,
for me, is the perfect mix.
Red Dust Road is at the Beacon Arts Centre on Saturday 10th August
before its’ taken on to The Edinburgh Festival. To book for the 10th
August showing go to beaconartscentre.co.uk
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Helping People Smile… Again
At Erskine Dental Care we provide Advanced Dental Implants as a
long term and natural way to replace missing teeth. If you suffer from
any of the following problems, you might just find that dental implants
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Missing teeth or gaps
Failing crowns or bridges
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Worries about having dentures or jawbone loss
Dislike of denture adhesive
Concerned about the appearance of your teeth
Difficulty chewing
Gum disease
Mouth infections
Dental implants are a safe and long-lasting solution to these problems
allowing patients to smile and eat with confidence once again. At
Erskine Dental Care, we have helped hundreds of patients achieve the
smile they deserve. The Practice owner and Implantologist, Dr Philip
Byrne, is one of a handful of experienced dentists with a Postgraduate
Qualification in Dental Implants. He has been placing implants since
2007 helping countless patients along the way. His achievements were
recently acknowledged when he was shortlisted for the ‘Clinician of the
Year’ Award recognising the care he gives his patients.
If you would like to see if you are suitable for dental implants or to
discuss your individual needs, we offer a free initial consultation.
You can call our reception team on 0141 812 8420 to arrange an
appointment.
Implants are more affordable than many people think and start from
£58.33/ month based on 36 months at 0% finance.
16 | INSIGHT

INSIGHT | 17

Fashion
Natural
Selection
By Fashion Blogger and Personal Stylist, Nikki Oji
@nikkiojiwears
nikkiojiwears.com
While my day-to-day style is anything but bohemian,
a little bit of me still hankers for those halcyon, art
student days when channeling an eclectic, rebellious
and ever-so-slightly boho vibe was everything.
Replacing winter woollies with the silks, linens and
lightweight cottons of high summer evokes that
beachy-bohemian lifestyle that we don’t live here in
Scotland, but can happily enjoy through fashion (and if
we’re lucky, for 2 weeks in the sun).
As an avid colour lover, I often gravitate towards
bright colours in summer. They simply zing so joyfully
in the sunlight! But this year, I’ve been captivated by
the deliciously natural selection - in terms of both
colour and fabric - that I’m seeing everywhere.
Bohemian Rhapsody
So with that in mind, I bring you: The Ultimate Summer
Dress!
It’s perfectly packable - twisting and scrunching up is
the preferred way to pack, wash and dry this piece
to retain the ‘creased-effect’. The warm, pinky-beige
is flattering on all skin tones, and it’s voluminous cut
makes it comfortable and cool.
Wear as a bikini cover up on the beach or to a
poolside party. With a pair of barely-there flat sandals
it will take you on the evening passagiata in style or
to a smart lunch in the old town. Adding strings and
strings of shells, stones and natural-coloured beads of
varying lengths adds texture and interest to the selfcolour
and intensifies that boho-chic beautifully. Pair
with a wide-brimmed straw hat and an Aperol Spritz
for maximum cool factor.
Dress: Zara £29.99
Long double strand necklace: Zara
£19.99
Short shell necklace: £15.99
Glasses (in hand): Sojos Vision £9.99
Shoes: Gucci, stylist’s own
Studded wooden bangle: Vintage,
stylist’s own
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White Heat (right)
Linen lovers will adore this dress. The natural
creases mean less time ironing and more time
enjoying your holiday. Another great choice
for summer days or nights - this bright white,
tiered, halter dress is a classic that you’ll wear
season after season.
Keep styling minimal with neutral or matching
white accessories. Here, I’ve mixed the two
- using shell, wood, straw, tigereye and white
patent leather - in a range of warm tones,
textures and natural materials that harmonise
to bring a subtle glamour to this summer maxi.
Dress: Zara £69.99
Hat: H&M £14.99
Shell necklace (worn as bracelet):
Zara £12.99
Shell embellished bag: Zara: £39.99
Shoes: Gucci, stylist’s own
Ring, bangle & earrings: all stylists
own
Dress (worn as skirt): H&M £69.99
Blouse: H&M £35.99
Shoes: Gucci, stylist’s own
Faux pearl earrings: New Look,
stylist’s own
Tonal Texture Fest
One of the most exciting things about
styling is finding different ways to wear
existing pieces.
Here I’ve styled this beautifully-appliquéd
dress as a midi skirt by slipping it down
onto my hips and tucking in the spaghetti
straps. For summer in the city sta-ycations,
it will pair perfectly with a simple white
vest or t-shirt, or, as I’ve styled it here, with
a high-neck blouse, knotted at the midriff.
Of course, if you’re lucky enough to be
venturing abroad, this piece will double as
a gorgeous LBD - that’s Little Beige Dress!
Well, it is summer after all, and we have all
year to wear black.
“
...a little bit of me still
hankers for those halcyon,
art student days when an
eclectic, rebellious ... boho
vibe was everything!
”
INSIGHT |
19

Interview
Houston-based writer and producer
Ed McCardie has helped create some
of the most popular TV shows in the
last decade, including Shameless,
Speaky Pete, Spotless and many
more. He talks to INSIGHT Magazine
about his big break, his favourite
scenes and the enduring appeal of
the anti-hero.
Did you have a ‘big break’ into the business of scriptwriting?
When I was just starting out, I won a pitching competition at BAFTA
in London (the competition was the end of day entertainment for a
rather dry funding conference). The prize money was more than a
year’s salary for me at the time, so I quit my job the following Monday,
to become a full-time writer. When the prize money for the pitching
competition finally came through, it was less than half what was
originally advertised… Tough at the time, but a good early lesson. The
TV and film business can be a bit like that for writers – lots of promises
which don’t entirely materialise.
I’ve noticed that your siblings are all actors. Were you a
‘theatrical family’? And do you ever fancy getting in front of
the camera?
We weren’t a theatrical family – my Dad was an engineer and my Mum
was a nurse. My two older brothers got into acting because they had a
brilliant teacher at school, who really inspired them – he really changed
the course of their lives. My youngest sister is also an actor, probably
because that whole world had been opened up to her by seeing my
older brothers. For my part – I wanted to be a writer of books, really
(still do), and just fell into this.
As for going in front of the camera – no, not ever. No desire to. Acting
is a proper, technical profession, and I have absolutely none of the skills
required. I hate standing up to talk in front of people. My wife is an
actor and has a remarkable set of skills. She’s better than me. I married
‘Up’.
You do a lot of producing as well as writing. How different
are these two areas of your work and which do you prefer?
I prefer writing, hands down. It’s what I’m best at. And getting lost in
an idea, creating a story and characters is a really joyous thing, when
you get the time to do it. Though you don’t often get the time – a
screenwriter usually writes with a gun at her/his head, and a producer
piling on pressure. In an ideal scenario, the writing side of the job
is done in the quiet, with time to think, plan and play with a story
(planning takes time, and is hugely important – but it’s hard, and lots of
people try to skip it). Writing is the happy side of the job.
Producing is… different. Producing is project management really, and
a very different skill-set from writing. It involves dealing with people,
and writers are not good at that. Writers as producers is a relatively
new thing in the UK – and, writers tend to steer the creative side when
made a producer, and a strong Production Manager tends to steer the
practical (management and financial) side.
20 | INSIGHT

Shameless went on for 11 series. It was a massive hit. It was
described by The Herald as “A mix of burnt-out car wreck
depravity, cutting-edge reality and coal-black comedy.”
Why do you think people took the Gallagher family and
their neighbours on the Chatworth Estate to their hearts?
I think the Gallagher family (for all their dysfunction) looked out for one
another in the end, always; I think they were very human and made
mistakes as people, but fundamentally had family and community at
the heart of everything they did. I think that, although the show was
a comedy drama, there was a large slice of truth in their life on the
margins of society – when the show first came on, it was a very warm
and human portrayal of a very marginalised section of society, rarely
seen on telly. Shameless was always at its best when it had one foot in
reality.
The show was often harshly pigeon-holed. There were drugs and crime
and other bits of badness and mischief in Shameless – but that is only
human. There are drugs and crime and badness and mischief in all
sections of society – as demonstrated amongst the current political
classes in Westminster. I think it shone a light back at the viewers.
Do you have a favourite scene from Shameless?
Lots, really. There were some truly brilliant actors on Shameless, who
are capable of making your writing seem better than it actually is. One
stand-out for me would be Series 6, Episode 1, the opening scene of
the series - Frank Gallagher (David Threlfall) is staggering home from
the pub, in a heavy storm, having been told he is a waste of space
as a human being – he rails at God about his lot in life (and actually
uses a speech from ‘Hamlet’ to do so – I was quite pleased to sneak
Hamlet into Shameless), and asks what his life is for, has it been worth
it? He then drunkenly urinates on a generator by some road works – is
electrocuted and has a heart attack, which puts him in intensive care.
While unconscious, he is visited by the ghost of himself, aged 12 – a
promising, sparky and bright lad with a great future… who somehow
ended up as Frank. Young Frank holds Old Frank to account, and tells
him he will die – unless he can show that he has done one good thing
with his life (with all that promise). Across the Episode, Frank tries to
prove that his life has been worth living. David Threlfall… was brilliant.
Many of the characters you write for - for Frank Gallagher,
Sneaky Pete’s Marius, the Bastiere brothers in Spotless -
exist on the outskirts of society, often involved with criminal
behaviour. What is it about these types of characters that
attracts you?
I think it’s that they are people too – people just like you or me. In
drama, sometimes the ‘bad guys’ are written or presented just like that
– two dimensionally, as bad guys. In truth, they have hopes and dreams,
and flaws and ambitions and worries – they have to pay bills, and worry
about their kid’s part in the nativity play. Their circumstances in life, or
the hand that life has dealt them, might mean they operate in different
circles from you or I – but they are people too. The anti-hero. The
character of Tony Soprano broke the mould with this – yes, he is a Mafia
boss, but he’s also a father, son, husband and brother, with all the stuffof-life
that that entails. So, what appeals is – decent people that we can
relate to, in extraordinary circumstances.
Which has been your favourite show to write for, and why?
It’s a toss up between Shameless and Spotless, I guess. Probably
because on those shows there was the freedom to tell the story in
as fresh, innovative and challenging a way as possible. They were
probably the most creatively ambitious shows I’ve worked on – and I
was pretty senior on them, and so had a bit of clout to try and realise
the ambition.
“
There are drugs and crime and badness
and mischief in all sections of society –
as demonstrated amongst the current
political classes in Westminster.”
”
Netflix and Amazon Prime have changed the way we watch
TV. Has this been a good thing for screenwriting?
Yes – it is undoubtedly a good thing for screenwriting. There are more
opportunities, a much wider variety of stories and jobs, a huge desire
for content from different channels. And… writers are not completely
dependent on opportunities from the BBC, as used to be the case.
Don’t get me wrong – the BBC is a wonderful national treasure, and if
we allow it to be undermined or diminished, we’ll lose a huge part of
our cultural life that we’ll never get back. It’s crucial that we maintain
the BBC. But it is also great to have options now. There are stories
being told now which really wouldn’t be seen or heard if there weren’t
other platforms. So, yes, it’s good for screenwriting. Any good story
now has a chance.
You must work away from home a lot. How difficult do you
find getting the work/life balance right?
It’s pretty difficult. I hate being away from my family. My preferred
state is being at home, writing and emailing scripts to people. I’m a
real home-body, and my greatest happiness in life is my wife and kids.
But – there is a reality to it, in that we choose to live here, in Scotland
– and the TV industry is not centred here. That’s our choice, not the
industry’s fault. And I need to work, so… we get on with it.
INSIGHT |
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22 | INSIGHT

Coming In...
LOUD
+ CLEAR
Homes +
Tech
“If music be the food of love, play on,” a wise
man once said. Barbra Glegg, Marketing
Manager of Loud + Clear, couldn’t agree more...
Nothing quite beats that spine-tingling feeling triggered by hearing
your own ‘special song’, or the heart stopping ‘movie moment’ that
can almost floor you... think John Hurt’s stomach in Alien; or the
moment Clarice is thrown into darkness in Buffalo Bill’s lair in Silence
of the Lambs. The better your music and movies sound and look at
home, the more pleasure, thrills and goosebumps you’re going get
from them!
Imagine nestling into your own luxury reclining cinema seat, the
family or friends lounging beside you in theirs. At the touch of your
fingertips, the lights dim; a discreet cinema screen gently lowers
in front of you, presenting a stunning, razor sharp, 4k picture; and
BOOM, the film soundtrack bursts into life all around you in full,
Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 surround sound. From that moment, you are
completely engrossed in the performance, as you would be in a live
theatre or Odeon cinema. This is the type of experience that Loud +
Clear can deliver for your home.
At their gorgeous showrooms in Glasgow’s St. Vincent Street you
can audition every level of music and movie systems until you have
your own personal nirvana – that’s the first bit of fun. They will
then provide an in-depth design consultation (if needed), draw up
a detailed specification and walk you through every step towards
creating your perfect home entertainment space. They advise
on mood lighting, bespoke furnishings, hidden speakers, acoustic
treatments and optimum control systems to match requirements,
as well as of course the perfect components for your ideal music
and movie system. Then they will work with you – or alongside your
architect, interior designer or project manager – to deliver that
sound and vision nirvana to your home.
Barbra explains, “We’ve been designing and installing premium
home entertainment systems for over twenty years and I still get a
thrill from the look of wonder on clients’ faces when they sit in that
cinema seat to watch, or close their eyes as the music begins on
their Hi-fi!”
Escapism? Probably, but don’t we all deserve a little bit of that?
Loud + Clear / 520 St Vincent Street, Glasgow
0141 221 0221 / loud-clear.co.uk
INSIGHT | 23

The
Walls
Came
Tumbling
Down
By Rona Simpson
Before pictures on the left. After picture is above - although we still have a few
‘finishes’ to carry out.
We had waited a year after moving into our house before finally getting
ourselves in a position to knock through walls and make the large dining
kitchen living area of our dreams. Although JBC Builders already came
with a good ‘village rep’, it is always nerve-wracking handing over the keys
to a group of men who are about to wallop your walls with enormous
metal hammers.
JBC is owned by Shaun Clarke. Despite Shaun insisting wryly that he
only, “brought his Dad out of retirement a few years ago to keep him
busy,” Tony – his dad – is clearly the lynchpin to the company. Tony
takes a project management position; organising schedules, booking in
tradesmen and liaising with clients. Shaun deals with suppliers, hires
contractors and leads the build. Between them, Shaun and his dad Tony
have 73 years experience in the building trade covering a huge variety of
different projects. The experience shows.
When any build gets underway, questions and problems arise. Tony
organised daily meetings with us so we were kept informed of any
problems that arose and given options on how to solve them. This was
important as we never felt the project was out of our control.
It’s clear that JBC take real pride in their work. Our house
dates from the 1930s and Shaun was always careful to keep
their build chiming (where possible) with original features. The
contractors they use are circumspectly selected and most have
been working for Shaun for many years. At all times they kept
our house as clean as possible and always tidied their tools
at the end of the day. Not only were they aware of our kids’
safety when they raced in after school, but they became pals
with them. (Shaun made an especially deep impression on my
youngest with his in-depth knowledge of Disney Princesses).
They guys concluded the project on time and without any major
added expenses. We are so completely delighted with the work
that was carried out and have now what feels like a whole new
house. Thank you, JBC builders!
24 | INSIGHT

INSIGHT | 25

Your space.
Reimagined.
By Rona Simpson
I had not considered using an interior designer for finishing
touches on our kitchen/diner/living room. I assumed that
it would be out of our price range and thought I might be
intimidated by the designer’s opinions. This could not have been
further from what happened when I met Sharon, owner
of Autumn Willow and Studio 8 Interior Designs.
Sharon is warm, engaging and full of knowledge and fantastic
ideas. She doesn’t baulk one bit when we explain we are at the
end of our project therefore kind of... skint! She provides clever
solutions and realistic options. There is absolutely no hard sell.
Whatsoever. Mid chat Sharon clocks me watching my two kids
out of the corner of my eye. Smiling, she says, “They’re FINE.
Relax. They can’t do anything.” Words to soothe any stressed
parent’s soul. And she should know; she has seven (that’s
SEVEN) girls. We agree on a grey loose weave material with an
orange velvet trim for our curtains. Sharon has offered to make
any surplus material into cushions. What a lovely bonus!
Boot Room for home in Kent (below) designed by Studio 8
Room interiors above designed by Studio 8 for a project in Surrey
Soft furnishings, however, are only a fraction of the scope of Autumn Willow
and Studio 8 Interiors. The design arm of her business – Studio 8 Interiors
– covers internal layouts, joinery and furniture design, lighting design and
project management. Most of Studio 8’s projects require that they work
closely with third parties, such as architects, project managers, contractors
or furniture makers. She tells me, “Having signed off the design often months
previously we are able to juggle things such as joinery, upholstery, furniture
making and lighting design into a finely tuned schedule.”
Great interior design is like great art, it can reflect who you are in ways
you never imagined. Sharon says, “ We are an interior design studio that is
focussed on achieving a home or space that, from the moment you step over
the threshold, lifts your wellbeing. It is amazing to think that we are able to
boost our client’s mood or help them relax by creating a space that works for
them, making them feel at peace in their home environment.”
There’s a certain magic about getting to the essence of a person and their
vision and using that to transform their space into something unique,
comfortable and personal, which is what I believe Studio 8 does so incredibly
well. Their unique perspective, grounded in both a holistic and architectural
approach, reflects an eye toward colour, materials and a strong sense of
space and form. In a nutshell, Studio 8 will make your space better than you
could have ever imagined.
26 | INSIGHT
Studio 8 Interiors + Autumn Willow Interiors
8 High St, Lochwinnoch PA12 4DA / 01505 844885

With over 15 years of experience and a diverse
portfolio we are renowned for our sensitive and
holistic design approach.
Studio 8 Interiors + Autumn Willow Interiors
8 High St, Lochwinnoch PA12 4DA / 01505 844885
INSIGHT | 27

Cohabitation
For better or for worse
Cohabitation is on the increase, but you may be surprised to discover
that that this is still a very poorly legislated area of the law. The idea
behind the current law within the Family Law Scotland Act 2006 was
to avoid an oversight of sacrifices made by cohabitants that could not
be legally redressed. This however, had to be balanced against the right
of individuals who decide not to enter marriage and take on the legal
obligations and rights of this.
Are you a cohabitant?
Well you may be if you are a member of a couple which consists of a man
and a woman who are living together as if they were husband and wife or
two persons of the same sex who are living together as if they were civil
partners.
You might then think that this is all straightforward and would allow for
an easy determination as to whether you are cohabiting or not. However,
what else will the Sheriff consider?
• Have you lived together long enough?
From current case law there appears to be a suggestion that 7
months may be too short and that one year is likely to be more
sufficient. Again, this is not set in stone and leaves us with no
definitive answer on the matter.
• The amount and nature of time spent together?
• Do you live in the same home?
• Do you have a social life together?
If you do have the same social circle and tend to go on holidays
together then it is likely that you will be cohabiting.
• How parties portray themselves to others can be a significant
factor. In one particular case the Pursuer wore a white gold band
on her wedding finger and this was enough to establish that they
were cohabitants.
• Quite an important factor would be the parties resources and how
they manged these. If you live together and share resources, it is
likely you cohabit. However, if you deal with your financial affairs
separately then you may be unlikely to establish cohabitation.
All this makes for an extremely grey area of law!
Added to this, once you separate you only have one year to make an
application to court if you cannot agree on matters. This may seem like
a considerable period of time but it’s not and you may find yourself
time barred, if you go over one year. One final drawback of this time
scale is that it puts a lot of undue pressure on the ability of parties to
negotiate out with court. Therefore, it is important if you are in this
situation that you contact your solicitor as a matter of urgency.
If you would like further information on the matter, then please do not
hesitate to contact us at our Kilmacolm office on 01505 874114.
28 | INSIGHT

INSIGHT | 29

The Honda-CRV
A sales success story
Since the introduction of the first-generation model in 1995, the Honda
CR-V has gone on to become the world’s bestselling SUV. The fifthgeneration
has evolved in every way, with beautifully refined lines, a
spacious luxurious interior and a responsive 1.5 litre VTEC TURBO
engine.
Harmony between man and machine
Honda’s ‘Man Maximum, Machine Minimum’ philosophy aims to maximise
space for people and find the perfect balance between man and
machine. True to this, the new CR-V feels sometimes more like a home
than a car, making it perfect for families. The CR-V has plenty of leg room
for a smoother and more comfortable ride, ample boot capacity and
a panoramic glass roof to create a relaxing open space, making every
journey a pleasure.
The forefront of innovation
With Honda constantly striving for technological excellence, the CR-V
has one of the most advanced suites of safety technologies available.
30 | INSIGHT
Standard equipment across the entire Honda range, Honda SENSING
includes collision mitigation braking system, lane departure warning
and traffic sign recognition. It also features Honda’s award-winning
ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure to protect
occupants in the event of a collision.
Superior performance and effortless driveability
The new 1.5 litre VTEC TURBO engine has improved the performance
with its lightweight components and innovative low-friction technologies.
The sleek modern design of the new SUV has resulted in improved
aerodynamics and efficiency to provide a smoother, more comfortable
ride, anywhere you go.
Built around the individual
The Honda CR-V is built around one vital component – the individual.
With connectivity more important for people than ever, the car includes
smartphone integration with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as
well as internet access. Why not visit your local Honda dealersip and take
the CR-V for a test drive to check out these cool features for yourself.

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