272 May 2017 - Gryffe Advertizer

May 2017 No.272
Culzean Castle in the spring sun
by Neal Nisbet
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• Bishopton
• Bridge of Weir
• Brookfield
• Elderslie
• Houston
• Howwood
• Kilbarchan
• Kilmacolm
• Langbank
• Lochwinnoch
• Quarriers
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your LOCAL community magazine May 2017 No. 272
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2 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
EXPERT JET-WASHING
With Spring now here, this is the time of year we are busiest cleaning
driveways, patios etc., ready for the Summer. If you are thinking of having
your driveway cleaned then it is crucial it’s done correctly to prevent
problems in future. If there are a lot of weeds these should be treated
before jet-washing and after a high-pressure industrial clean that removes
dirt, moss and a little sand, it is critical to re-sand with kiln-dried sand, a
Biocidal treatment will then resist future growths. Give us a call for free
friendly information on this service or for a free quotation.
Before
After
01505 863 863
www.nutechcleaning.co.uk

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
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4 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
This Month
It’s that time of year when we hope for some great weather and a summer full
of entertainment for kids and grown-ups alike. In this month’s issue, we have
a varied mix with events on land and water, and hopefully something that will
appeal to everyone.
contact us
The Gryffe Advertizer, 1st floor, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN
t: 01505 613340 e: info@advertizer.co.uk w: www.advertizer.co.uk
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
The Gryffe Advertizer cannot be held responsible for unsolicited materials. The views and opinions by
contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. The Gryffe Advertizer takes no
responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication.
contents
local news....................8-13
legal blog......................8
optical blog.......................10
dental blog........................13
what’s on........................14-23
finance & tech.................24-29
financial blog.........................24
it blog...............................28
local history......................30
on the road.....................31-33
village news....................36-45
pet news.....................46-47
pet blog............................46
outdoors........................48-53
school news.................54-57
photography blog..............55
sport news....................58-63
sporting blog.....................63
business classified..............64
church listings....................65
deadlines dates...................65
property classified.................65
sales & wants......................66
advertizer directory................67
Some of these events date back many years and are steeped in history, others
are more recent additions to the calendar. They run like clockwork - weather
permitting. All thanks to a small army of volunteers who give
of their time to gather in the wee dark hours of the winter to
plan, organise and fundraise.
Perhaps you feel that you would like to get involved and be
a part of our local annual events. Your involvement will be
rewarding for yourself and the community, so why not become
a part of your local community and offer your services.
Here is just a small sample of what’s coming,
with more details in our What’s on section:
06 May: Neilston Agricultural Show
07 May: Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley 10K
13 May: Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow
Agricultural Show (Knapps Show)
13 May: Houston & Killelan Kirk Carnival
13 May: Falconry Day at Finlaystone
14 May: Gourock Highland Games
14 May: Watersports Open Day at
Castle Semple Loch
20 May: Accord Hospice Summer Fayre
20 May: Calder Church Summer Fayre,
Lochwinnoch
20 May: British Pipe Band Championships
20 May: Rowing Club Regatta at Castle
Semple Loch
21 May: Kilmacolm Guides Garden Party
28 May: Mad Hatters Tea Party at
Finlaystone
28 May; Erskine Motorbike Meet
28 May: Gateway Garden Party,
Kilbarchan
03 June: Lilias Day, Kilbarchan
03 June: Houston Agricultural Show
10 June: Bridge of Weir Gala Day
10 June: Lochwinnoch Gala Day
11 June: Bowfield 10K, Howwood
We keep our website and Facebook/Twitter pages up to date with events and
news, so please ‘like’ us, ‘follow’ us and bookmark our web page to get
the latest information.
The Advertizer is the ideal platform to communicate with your community
as we reach over 13,500 homes and businesses in the Gryffe area.
Send your news and photos to info@advertizer.co.uk or by post to
The Advertizer, Neva Place, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN.
Next deadline Friday 19 May!
Rona

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
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 fi x 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.
5 5

6 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
This May, ‘Go Yellow’ for
Ardgowan Hospice
Have your own event in your
workplace, school or college and
help raise funds for hospice care.
Or,
come along to our Coffee Morning
in the Access Centre on Friday the
26th of May at 10am - 12pm.
Contact
fundraising@ardhosp.co.uk or call
01475 726830 for more details.
Ardgowan Hospice is a charity registered in Scotland: Registered office 12
Nelson Street, Greenock PA15 1TS Scottish Charity No: SC011541
Company No: SC075515 www.ardgowanhospice.org.uk
Our local residents
have been fantastic
supporters of
Christian Aid Week
over the years.
This
year’s
house-to-house
collection takes place
during the week of 14th to 20th May – thanks to
an army of 60 volunteer collectors.
Christian Aid Week was started 60 years ago.
Its origins lie in the collective effort of Christian
churches throughout the UK at that time to
respond to the desperate needs of refugees
in Europe following the Second World War.
Understandably, given the current events in the
Middle East, its message this year is: “We’ve been
there for refugees since 1945. We won’t turn our
backs now.”
Christian Aid now operates in 45 countries
throughout the world. Most of its work is done with
local partner organisations which not only have
fi rst hand knowledge of the practical needs of the
poor in their area, but are also able to ensure the
sustainability of initiatives to lift communities out
of poverty.
Christian Aid helps people of all faiths or none.
It is a signatory to the Code of Conduct for Red
Cross and NGO’s in Disaster Relief which sets
international ethical standards for aid work and,
among other things, promises that aid will not be
used to further a particular political or religious
standpoint.
Please support Christian Aid Week again this year.
In particular, please complete the gift aid form
on the fl ap of the envelope which the volunteer
collector will drop through your door and pick up
again later in the week. This allows Christian Aid
to receive an extra 25p from the Government for
every £1 donated. It may not seem much for one
envelope, but multiplied across the whole village it
could mean up to £1,000 extra for Christian Aid!
Dinner/
Dance
Every Saturday night
from 8pm - 11pm at Willow Bank
Hotel, 96 Greenock Road, Largs.
Booking essential. Call 01475
675435 for further information.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
7 7
Photos & Videos Wanted
At the Advertizer, we are always keen to get updates for our website and with
‘Show Season’ through May and June we’re sure there will be plenty of great
photos and videos taken by our readers.
We love seeing all the fabulous and colourful pictures of events, and our
readers enjoy looking through the images to see who they recognise, or even if
they are there themselves!
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.

8 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Preloved Clothes Sale a Huge
Success for Women v’s Cancer
total over the course of the year so
please follow our facebook page for
future fund raising events (Bridge of
Weir Biker Belles). We also wanted
to thank the support of our generous
local business that helped us run
the event; so thanks to Bernie’s,
Laura’s Nails, Harrods’s, Sk Fitness,
Legal Blog
by Isabella McKerrow, Affinity Family Law
A huge thank you to everyone who
donated and attended our ‘Preloved
Clothes Sale’ at Bernie’s on the
24th of March. It was a fantastic
night raising £3,700 which will be
donated to ‘Women v’s Cancer’.
Everyone’s generosity has been
amazing! We wish to double this
Lose it & Love it, Belhaven Dentistry,
Gryffe Casting, Weir’s Walkies, Mo
Ferrington, Bodyprojectmassage.
co.uk, J & J Ground & Property
Engineering, The Lion’s Paw, The Coop,
Captain Tortue, Belle’s of Burlex
& the Advertiser of course!).
Powers Of Attorneys
And The Role Of The Public
Guardian
Having a Power of Attorney “POA” in place lets you plan what you want another
person to do for you in the future should you become incapable of making
decisions about your own affairs.
The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 gives the Public Guardian “OPG”
the following duties and responsibilities relating to Powers of Attorney:
• To register POA’s that meet the registration criteria.
• To maintain a public register of continuing and welfare POA’s.
• To provide advice and guidance to continuing attorneys on the exercise of
their powers.
• Certain powers to investigate concerns and take steps to safeguard
financial matters of the adult where it appears they are at risk.
For a POA to become effective it must be registered with the OPG. The fee
for registration is currently £74. If you are in receipt of certain benefits you
may qualify for a fee exemption. Most solicitors will recommend that the POA
Join the Fight against Heart
Disease and Wear It. Beat It.
On Friday 9th June, the British Heart
Foundation (BHF) is calling on the
nation to join the fight against heart
disease by wearing red and hosting a
fundraising event to raise money for life
saving research.
Around 160,000 lives are cut short
every year by heart and circulatory
disease – that’s one person every three
minutes. Right now there are around 7 million people in the UK living with
these devastating conditions.
The BHF is funding cutting-edge research to help transform the lives of people
living with heart disease and needs you to join the fight by taking part in Wear.
It.Beat.It on Friday 9th June.
Whether it’s at home, school or at your workplace, don your favourite red
garments and join the fun across the UK by organising a fundraising event. It
could be a red tea break in the office, a yummy red bake sale after school or
a red-themed garden party with friends and family. Whatever you choose to
do, Wear.It.Beat.It is a great way to bring everyone together and help make a
difference to millions.
Last year more than 15,000 people took part in Wear it. Beat it. Raising over
£750,000. The BHF is calling for even more of you to get involved this year and
help raise in excess of £1million for the charity’s heart research.
Once you sign up, you’ll receive a free fundraising kit jam-packed with reddymade
ideas and goodies to help make Wear.It.Beat.It the BHF’s biggest, reddest
and best year yet.
Sign up to Wear It. Beat It. At wearitbeatit.bhf.org.uk or call 0300 330 0645 and get
your free fundraising pack full of fun ideas about how to get involved.
is registered straight away. Some people may take the view not to register
straight away as they may never need to use it, thereby saving £74. Before
the OPG will register the POA, they carefully scrutinise it to ensure it complies
with the criteria of the 2000 Act. If they reject it and the adult has already lost
capacity it may not thereafter be possible to correct the error. Consequently
the POA is ineffective and resort will have to be made to the lengthy and
expensive process of applying to the court for a Guardianship Order.
(For more information on the role of the Public Guardian and about Powers of
Attorneys visit the website: www.publicguardian-scotland.gov.uk- Telephone:
01324 678300.)

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
9 9
Do you have a few hours to spare
every week?
St Vincent’s Hospice are looking for
volunteers to help out at the Hospice in
administration roles, in The Barn Tearoom at the Hospice, in our Furniture Unit
at the Hospice, in our charity shops across Renfrewshire and at events.
Not only will you be helping a great cause you will also be eligible for discounted
gym memberships and many discounts in shops, retailers, restaurants, cafes,
hairdressers, beauty salons, spas and many other places across Renfrewshire,
Ayrshire, Inverclyde and Glasgow as well as many online discounts too.
If you would like more information, please call Christine or Elaine on 01505
705635 or email volunteering@svh.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Afternoon Tea with The Jersey Tones
Please join St Vincent’s Hospice on
Sunday 14th May for an Afternoon with
The Jersey Tones at The Glynhill Hotel,
Renfrew.
The afternoon will begin at 1.30pm with
a sparkling drinks reception and the
opportunity to browse and shop in our
famous vintage stall and, new for this year, our exciting luxury range of goods
followed by a delicious Afternoon Tea. Our Host for the afternoon will be River
City actress, Carmen Pieraccini who will lead us through an afternoon of fun
and entertainment - make sure your dancing shoes are on to be ready to dance
to the wonderful sound of The Jersey Tones.
If you would like further information or would like to book, please contact a
member of the fundraising team on 01505 705635 or email info@svh.co.uk.
Tickets are £28pp and available now. We look forward to seeing you there.
St Vincent’s Hospice Strictly Prancers raised £££’s for the Hospice!
What a night it was!
Over 300 St Vincent’s
Hospice supporters were
spectacularly entertained
by twenty-two ‘twinkle toed’
volunteer contestants in
a series of Quicksteps,
Cha Cha Cha, Jives and
The contestants
Sambas danced along
to some upbeat dance floor classics, at St Vincent’s Hospice 2017 Strictly
Come Prancing event, which was sponsored by Mactaggart & Mickel Ltd. And
Allstaff.
Jake Quickenden, Peter Fergusson, Tess,
Brucie and the Judges
Charleston dancers Curtis Campbell and
Carolann Caderwood, put their best feet
forward and triumphed in the dance off over
tango duo, James and Lisa MacDonald,
becoming the Strictly Come Prancing
Champions of 2017. Carolann said, “I really
enjoyed the experience of Strictly. It was
great fun learning my routine for the event
and it was all for a fantastic charity. I would
recommend it to anyone”. Her partner for
the event, Curtis, said, “One of the best
The event, which was held at the
Crowne Plaza, Glasgow, is based on the
popular television series Strictly Come
Dancing, where judges and guests
vote for the best dancers. There was
a surprise in store for everyone when
Jake Quickenden of X-Factor and
I’m A Celebrity fame made a special
appearance to perform for the guests,
as well as being a guest judge for the
evening.
The 2017 winners, Curtis Campbell
and Carolanne Calderwood
experiences I have done in my life, the real winner on the night was St Vincent’s
Hospice”.
Louise Strachan, Fundraiser, said, “What a great night this was! So much
hard work and effort was involved in the lead up to this evening. We owe a
great debt of thanks to all involved from the choreographers, judges, hair and
make-up artists, photographers, local businesses, all the friends and family
who supported us and, of course, the contestants for giving up their time to
rehearse and fundraise.” To date, this event has raised over £29,000, which
will go directly to help provide care for people in the Renfrewshire area affected
by a life-limiting illness.
The Hospice are already looking forward to Strictly Come Prancing 2018 and would
welcome applications from potential dancers and sponsors. For further information
please email info@svh.co.uk.
Rain or Shine, Judith Launches BBQ Time
One of the country’s most popular TV weather
presenters, Judith Ralston, swapped forecasting
for flame grilling today (10th April) to launch a
new nation-wide fund-raising initiative.
The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle, run by Scotland’s
Hospices Together, is set to see a burst of BBQ
activity taking place throughout Scotland during
June to raise funds for hospices around the country.
Supported by Scotch Beef PGI, the initiative will encourage Scots to get steaks
and burgers on the barby to raise vital funds
for hospice care.
Scotland’s Hospices Together is a
national partnership of ten of Scotland’s
independent hospices and the Children’s
Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). The
partnership aims to support and to highlight
the work of hospice care in Scotland.
Judith, who regularly presents the weather
on prime-time TV, said she couldn’t think of a better way to catch up with friends
and family while raising money for such a worthwhile cause.
“One of the joys of our country is the variety, and unpredictability, of our weather
which means hosting a BBQ is always an adventure!
“The secret is to be prepared – pack an umbrella along with the suncream
and there will be nothing to stop the
fun!” said Judith.
“I would encourage everyone to
get involved in the Big Scotch Beef
Sizzle which is a fantastic way to
your local hospice and your local
community,” she added.
John Brady, head of fundraising at
St Andrew’s Hospice and Chair of
Scotland’s Hospices Together, said: “We are delighted to be launching our first
ever national fundraising campaign ‘The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle’ today, with
huge thanks to Scotch Beef PGI for supporting this initiative.
“We would like to encourage as many people as possible across Scotland to
host a barbeque in June to support their local Hospice. These hospices provide
end-of-life care and support to patients and their families and are reliant on
donations and voluntary support to continue providing that care.”
Carol McLaren, Head of Communications at Quality Meat Scotland, said: “This
initiative offers a great opportunity to for people to take time out together and
enjoy cooking top quality local food, like Scotch Beef PGI, with friends and
family while at the same time supporting a cause which is the heart of our local
communities.”
For more information on how to get involved with The Big Scotch Beef Sizzle,
visit: http://www.scotlandshospices.org/events/scotch-beef-sizzle.aspx
Recipes and information about Scotch Beef PGI, can be found at www.
scotchkitchen.co.uk or follow @ScotchKitchen on Facebook or Twitter.
St. Aidan’s Annual Fete
Saturday 27th May 2017 11am - 2pm, Tower Road
Johnstone.
Lots of stalls, beat the goalie, bouncy castle, wheel of fortune
and much much more. Entry is free. Bring the whole family
and enjoy.

10 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Supporting
Homeless Women
Members of Soroptimist International of
Paisley heard at their recent meeting about
the work of the Lodging House Mission in
Glasgow from Gus Smeaton, who volunteers
there. Established in 1909, the Mission
supports homeless and socially excluded
people in Glasgow, many of whom don’t see
themselves as having any kind of future. The
number of women supported is small, but the Mission provides them with food,
a safe place to be and company as well as practical help with their problems.
Members provided ‘blessings bags’ at Christmas for the homeless women
being supported. These bags contain basic toiletries as well as gloves, a hat
and scarf.
‘Glasgow Girl’ Comes to Paisley
Members of Soroptimist International of Paisley
and their guests marked the 71st anniversary
of the club at their annual dinner in the Glynhill
Hotel recently.
The guest speaker was Amal Azzudin, one of
the ‘Glasgow Girls’ whose campaign played an
important part in the decision to change the
law around detaining children for immigration
purposes. With the support of charities and community groups, the girls kept
the detention and dawn raid issue on the political agenda.
Amal spoke movingly about her experience as an asylum seeker and her
continuing work in this area as a campaigner for human rights and social justice
in Scotland. Within the Mental Health Foundation she takes responsibility for
the Amaan project and the development and delivery of new and innovative
work with asylum seekers and refugees.
In August 2016, Amal was named as one of the Saltire Society’s Outstanding
Women of Scotland inductees.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Trek
Make your mark in the fight against heart
disease by walking 100km or 50km from
Glasgow to Edinburgh. Join over 250 hikers
and sign up to the Glasgow to Edinburgh Trek
on 22nd and 23rd July to help fund the British
Heart Foundation’s (BHF) life saving heart
research.
As part of the charity’s series of treks, the
ultimate walking challenge gives Heart Trekkers
a unique opportunity to trek from Scotland’s two largest cities. Alongside the full
100km challenge, there is also a 50km option, where participants can either
walk from Glasgow to Linlithgow throughout the day, or through the night from
Linlithgow to Edinburgh.
In 2016 those who took on the challenge helped raise over £100,000 which
will go towards helping us better understand how to prevent, diagnose and treat
heart and circulatory disease, which is the cause of more than a quarter (26%) of
all deaths in the UK. With over 710,000 people in the Scotland alone living with
heart and circulatory disease, the need is urgent to raise funds for research into
these conditions.
2017 sees a new start venue introduced, starting at the picturesque Glasgow
Science Centre. The route is primarily flat on canal tow paths so is suitable for
trekkers of all abilities. Also brand new for 2017 is the introduction of ‘The 500
Club’, which celebrates fundraisers who go above and beyond in their fundraising.
Those who have £500 or more (excluding gift aid) on their JustGiving page will
be eligible to request a complimentary 500 Club jersey which can be worn with
pride during and after the event. Susie Roach, Fundraising Event Manager at the
BHF, said: “Challenging yourself to the Glasgow to Edinburgh Trek is a fantastic
way to support the nation’s heart charity, save lives and improve your own heart
health at the same time.
“By taking on this exciting challenge, every step you take will be helping bring us
closer to beating heart disease for good. Our research has already helped halve
death rates from heart and circulatory disease over the past 50 years, but there
is still so much more to be done.
“We urgently need the people of Scotland to help us stop heart disease in its
tracks and support us in our search for more lifesaving breakthroughs.”
The BHF relies on the generosity of its supporters, through fundraising events like
the Glasgow to Edinburgh Trek to pay for life saving research. Sign up to join the
fight today by visiting bhf.org.uk/g2etrek
Optical Blog
by Kerry Taher, New Vision Opticians
Can Smoking affect
my eyes?
Tobacco use plays a role in many diseases, causing damage to virtually every
body organ. With over 4,000 chemical compounds present in inhaled smoke,
several of which are known to cause cancer, it is no surprise that the effects of
smoking can be so widespread.
Most of us know that smoking damages the heart and lungs but what about the
eyes? Well, here are some examples of what smoking can cause:
Cataract - people who smoke more than 15 cigarettes per day have a 3 times
greater risk of developing cataracts compared with non-smokers.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) - Smokers are 3 to 4 times more
likely to develop AMD than non-smokers. Non-smokers living with smokers
almost double their risk of developing AMD.
Diabetes & eye disease - Smoking increases your chances of becoming diabetic.
It also makes managing diabetes more difficult for those who already have it.
Infant Eye Disease - Women who smoke during pregnancy transmit
dangerous toxins to the placenta, potentially harming the unborn child and
increasing the chance of many foetal and infant eye disorders such as squint
and underdevelopment of the optic nerve (a leading cause of blindness in
children).
Optic Neuropathy (sudden loss of vision) - smokers are 16 times more at risk
and it develops up to 12 years earlier than non-smokers.
Dry Eyes - Tobacco smoke is a known eye irritant and worsens dry eye, even
among passive smokers - particularly for contact lens wearers. People who
smoke are about twice as likely to have dry eyes.
It’s not all bad news though! Stopping smoking at any age, even later in life, will
significantly reduce your risk of eye disease. Regular exercise and a healthy
diet, as always, will also help to keep your risk of disease as low as possible.
If you have any questions please contact us at the practice: 01505 614 700.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
11 11
The SWI Renfrewshire Federation Show
was held in the Cargill Hall on Saturday
25th March and competitors from all
Institutes in Renfrewshire took part.
There was an outstanding display of
handcrafts, group entries, baking and floral art judged on the preceding
Friday by a group of judges provided by Stirling, Clackmannan and West Perth
Federation. The Show was then open to the public on the Saturday and as
well as the displays, other attractions included a tearoom, tombola stall, home
baking stall, raffle, gift stall and haberdashery stall. The show was very well
attended throughout the day and the full list of prize winners is given below.
Institutes throughout Renfrewshire meet on a monthly basis throughout the
winter months for talks, demonstrations etc and visitors and new members
are always welcome. There are also opportunities to attend classes in a wide
variety of crafts, e.g. crochet, and a number of groups take part in sporting
activities such as golf, curling, and bowling. Members can also attend summer
schools, study tours, drama and other competitions – in fact there is something
for everyone at the SWI. If you would like to receive further information please
contact Irene Macfarlane on 01505 614443.
Winners of the Challenge Trophies
Federation Cup (For Institute Gaining most overall points - all classes) - Bridge of
Weir
Weilda Raeside Trophy (For member gaining most overall points - Cath Close) -
Uplawmoor
Stuart Salver for Teamwork (Handicraft Table ) - Lochwinnoch
Maclay Salver for Teamwork (Housewifery Table) - Houston and Crosslee
Stevenson Oval Basket (For Institute gaining most points in Handicraft Exhibits
in Foursomes and Individual Classes. Foursome and Classes 1-10) -
Lochwinnoch
Telfer Rose Bowl (For institute gaining most points in Housewifery Exhibits, In
Threesomes and Individual classes 13-26) - Bridge of Weir
Rankin Trophy (Winner of Black Work - Class 2) - Elizabeth Benzie - Lochwinnoch
Sherriff Quaich (Member gaining most points in Provisions and Baking classes 13-
24) - Irene McFarlane
Hunter Bowl (Member gaining most points in Handicraft Classes. Classes 1-10) -
Elizabeth Benzie - Lochwinnoch
Woodrow Trophy (Institute gaining most points in Flower Classes. Classes 11-12)
- Uplawmoor
Balmanno Trophy (Member gaining most points in Flower Classes. Classes 11-12)
- Christine Kyle - Uplawmoor, Anne Dunne - Brookfield
Raeside Trophy (Institute with most points in Threesomes) - Uplawmoor
Currans Cup (Winner of outstanding Embroidered Article - Any Classes) -
Elma Richmond - Lochwinnoch
Pollock Cup (Winner of Decorated Cake - Class 22 ) - Cath Close - Uplawmoor
Anne G. Macdonald (Encouragement Tray to member with most entries and not a
Trophy winner.) - Margaret Dundas - Brookfield
Chairman’s Choice (Chairman’s Choice of Exhibit in Show) - Christine Kyle,
Uplawmoor
RAMH - Surviving or Thriving?
Every May we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, and in 2017 the
Surviving or Thriving theme will explore how we can cultivate good mental
health. It is an opportunity to reflect on the strategies and resources needed
to both shape a coherent national approach to public mental health and the
tools we, our families and our communities, need in order to radically reframe
our ability to thrive in life.
During the week of 8th -14th May, the Mental Health Foundation will be producing
a new report to highlight the numbers of us who feel stuck on ‘survive’. They
will be providing advice and insight into how we can build good mental health
in the context of our work, our digital world, our parenting approach and in our
communities. The campaign will be calling on the Government to do more to
promote better mental health.
Human beings are probably the most resilient creatures on the planet. Through
countless setbacks, we have learnt how to survive but we are only now starting
to understand how to thrive. If you are struggling with mental health issues and
surviving rather than thriving, contact RAMH on 0141 8478900 or enquiries@
ramh.org
You can view the current issue as well as
previous issues of the magazine online.
www.advertizer.co.uk/issues

12 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
The Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Branch of SSAFA - the Armed
Forces Charity founded in 1885, reported another successful year at their very
well attended AGM held at the Old Library, Kilbarchan with the Branch President
HM Lord Lieutenant Guy WNH Clark FSI JP in the chair.
The Branch, one of twenty-two in Scotland, supports those who serve in our
Armed Forces, those who used to serve and the families of both. This is our
133rd Year and was the only multi service at the start of World War One.
During the last year to December 31st, 2016 the Branch had sourced and
distributed goods and services to 224 veterans and their families in our local
community to the value of £151,805 and administered a further £36,885
paid to Annuitants. The qualifying criterion for assistance in time of need is
usually to have received one day’s pay in the Armed Forces (including National
Service) or in the Merchant Navy. SSAFA Forces Help works closely with, and
acknowledges the assistance given by, The ABF (The Soldiers Charity), The
Royal Navy Benevolent Trust, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, Merchant
Navy Welfare Board, PoppyScotland and the many and various Army Regimental
Charities as well as other Forces and Civilian Charities and Trusts.
SSAFA welcomes enquiries from those who have served, or who are serving,
in our Forces and the families of both who are in need and require practical
assistance. In addition SSAFA represent most other Military and Merchant
Navy Charities.
Volunteering with SSAFA is a very satisfying experience and right now the
Branch, which has no paid staff, is looking for volunteers to help with Case
Working, Administration, IT and Publicity & Fundraising. Full training is given
and expenses paid; it is appreciated that time is the most precious commodity
that a volunteer can give.
Further details for both those that require practical assistance or as a potential
volunteer can be found by contacting the Branch Secretary, Joyce Goater, at the
Wynd Centre, Paisley 0141 840 4060, ssafa.paisley@renfunds.org or via the
website (www.ssafa.org.uk).
One highlight of the AGM was that not only was HM Lord Lieutenant Guy WNH
Clark FSI JP called upon to present the Long Service Awards he was also called
forward to receive one.
Following the AGM there were two interesting and very relevant presentations
- the first was outlining the changes in methods of operation of Combat Stress
and how SSAFA should now signpost veterans to them (Kath Provan) and the
second was confirmation of how SSAFA works in partnership with the RCET
(formerly the Royal Caledonian Education Trust). The RCET, a charity that is
over 200 years old, is a major supporter of the children of Scottish Armed
Forces, serving and veterans (Karen Stock).
If you would like one of our volunteers to speak at one of your meetings please
contact us at any of the telephone numbers or email addresses detailed above.
We will also be at the Kilmacolm Show on Saturday, May 13th), Bridge of Weir
Gala (Saturday, June 10th) and at Rouken Glen for East Renfrewshire’s Armed
Forces Day (Saturday, June 17th, 2017); at all these events our volunteers
would be pleased to welcome as many visitors as possible.
Registered Charity No: 210760 (Since 1885) and SC038056

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
Dental Blog
by Sheila Macintyre, Practice Owner,
Kilbarchan Dental Practice
All You Need to Know
About Check-Ups
Dental check-ups are an important part of caring for your smile, however
according to research from NHS Digital half of UK adults haven’t been to the
dentist in the last two years.
Check-ups give your dentist the opportunity to assess your dental health and
pick up any areas for attention at an early stage. Leaving problems untreated
may mean they are harder and more expensive to tackle later. That is why it is
really important that you ensure you are registered with a dentist and visit when
you receive a request to do so.
Check-ups should take around 15 minutes for existing patients and slightly
longer for new patients.
At a check-up your dentist should:
• Examine your teeth, gums and mouth.
• Ask about your general health and any problems you’ve had with your teeth,
mouth or gums since your last visit.
• Ask about, and give you advice on, your diet, smoking and alcohol use, and
teeth-cleaning habits.
Your dentist may also take the opportunity to give your teeth a scale and polish
if needed to get rid of any build-up of tartar which can lead to decay.
Regular examinations will not only help identify areas of improvement for your
oral health but will pick up early signs of decay and gum disease as well as
more serious issues such as mouth cancer.
Whilst we see most of our patients every 6 months some may need to visit more
regularly whilst others may not need to attend as frequently depending on
how healthy their teeth and gums are and what their risk is of
future problems.
If you would like any more advice on how to care for your
teeth visit us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505
704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll
find lots more free tips.
13 13

14 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
May
events
Sat 29 Apr - Mon 1 May
Binocular & Telescope Open Day
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
10am to 4pm
Come and peruse a range of telescopes and
binoculars, with knowledgeable staff on hand to
help you find the right one for you! Our optics are
competitively priced, with the added bonus that
you are helping conservation. Cost: FREE.
Sat 29 April
BeachWatch
Lunderston Bay, Cloch Road, near
Gourock PA19 1BB - 11am to 1pm
As part of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive
help the Rangers & Greenock Conservation
Volunteers record the sea debris. MORE INFO:
tel 01475 529 543 & bookings.
Birds for Beginners
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
11am to 1.30pm
Are you a beginner to bird watching? Join the
team at RSPB Lochwinnoch for a workshop ideal
for introducing beginners to this fantastic hobby!
Learn more about common garden birds and pick
up tips and advice on wildlife watching techniques.
After this, we’ll head out onto the reserve to put
these new skills into practise and then top it all off
with a hot drink back at the centre. Please book,
as places are limited. Cost: Adults: £5; Children:
£3 (RSPB members: £3/£2).
Thu 4 May
Community Event: Virgin Media
Kilmacolm Community Centre,
Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm
5pm to 7pm
This is a drop in session to update local residents
on the works being carried out in their area and
what services Virgin Media will be able to provide
to the local community.
Outlook
Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm
2pm to 4pm
Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance; four years old
and growing.
Swarovski event
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
10am to 4pm
Paul, Area Sales Manager for Swarovski Optics,
will be joining us at the reserve with a vast and
varied selection of Swarovski Optics. This is a
great opportunity to come along and get some
expert knowledge, try out some of the amazing
optics or make that purchase you have always
dreamed of.
Fri 5 May
Kilmacolmjaro
Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm
7.30pm
Glasgow musician Daisy Doherty is climbing
Mount Kilimanjaro for Childreach International.
Join her for a fundraising concert featuring live
music from Guerilla Mystics, Howling Home,
A51s, Eugene Twist & Daisy Doherty. Tickets £10
(inc drinks/nibbles) on the door or via: https://
mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/daisydoherty1
Elvis Tribute Night
Kilmacolm Masonic Hall, Glebe Road,
Kilmacolm - 8pm to 10.30pm
For Cancer Research UK. Tickets £8.
Fri 5 May
RSPB Local Group
McMaster Centre, Donaldson Drive,
Renfrew - 7.30pm
There will be an illustrated talk by Ruary McKenzie
entitled Dragonflies. This will be followed by our
Annual General Meeting. All welcome.
Create and Play the Digital Way
Paisley YMCA 1pm to 5pm
Open door activity where we invite people to
join in and try an open workshop, a ‘come and
try’ approach and learn to code, build a car
with a micro-controller or take part in a public
demonstration event of Quiver augmented reality
or experience the world with Google Expeditions.
www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/create-and-playthe-digital-way
Sat 6 May
Brighter Bridge Of Weir Annual
Clean-Up Day
Livery Walk, Bridge of Weir 10.30 am
If you’ve got an hour or two to spare, why not join
us outside the Co-op. It’s not hard work, but it will
make things a bit easier for our few volunteers.
Tag-n-Track Bird Ringing
Demonstration
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Calder
Glen Road, Lochwinnoch
10am to 4pm
Find out how we Tag-n-Track some of the bird
species in the Park. For information call: 01505
614791 during office hours.
Neilston Agricultural Show
Holehouse, Neilston, Barrhead, East
Renfrewshire G78 3LE
192nd OPEN CATTLE SHOW & SHEEP DOG TRIALS
Admission to Show Ground Adults £6, Children
/ OAP’s £2, Family (2+2) £15, Car Park £3. For
information contact Mrs Rita Kilian secretary@
NeilstonShow.co.uk, www.neilstonshow.co.uk
Please Note: Parking facilities are limited and
your co-operation with the Stewards would be
greatly appreciated
Wild Night
Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank
5pm Saturday to 10am Sunday
Camp in the forest with the Ranger. Den Building
session and Bat walk at twilight. Singalong
around the camp fire. This event is aimed at
three year olds and above as an introduction to
camping. Bring tents, bbq food, sleeping bags etc
etc Tickets cost £10 per adult and £5 per child.
Tickets selling fast.
Sun 7 May
Bridge of Weir Choral Society
Spring Concert
St Columba’s Church, Duchal Road,
Kilmacolm 7.30pm
The main item in the programme is Mozart’s
Mass in C Major and the choir will also perform
works by Vaughan Williams and Finzi. For further
information please contact Ernie Smyth on 01505
702997.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
15 15
Sun 7 May
Canine Partners’ Special Big
Glasgow Bluebell Walk & Fun Day
Pollokshaw Burgh Hall, Glasgow
12noon to 4pm
People can meet the puppies, find out more
about being a puppy parent. We will walk through
Pollok Country Park. The event will feature a
raffle and tombola and more than 20 craft stalls
selling quality handmade goodies along with a
demonstration of some of the skills the dogs
learn. For more information call Dale Gormley
on 0845 4811915 or visit caninepartners.org.
uk/bigbluebellwalks.
Tag-n-Track Bird Ringing
Demonstration
The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees Bridge,
Greenock 10am to 4pm
Find out how we Tag-n-Track some of the bird
species in the Park. For information call: 01505
614791 during office hours
Dawn Chorus
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
4.30am to 6.30am
Hear the reserve at its best! It may be early, but
will be truly worth it! We will be pointing out the
songs & calls of many different types of birds. No
existing bird knowledge is needed and families are
welcome. Cost: Adults: £5; Children: £3 (RSPB
members: £3/£2).
Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley 10K Run
Houston Public Park, Four Windings,
Houston 1pm
For all abilities from serious runners to novices/
joggers on country lanes between Houston,
Bridge of Weir and Kilmacolm. Proceeds will
go to the Debra Charity www.debra.org.uk for
children and young people with the skin disease
EB. Refreshments and home baking for entrants
and spectators. Follow us on facebook - Gryffe
Valley Rotary 10K Run.
Twist & Hit Cheerleaders Free
Taster Session
The Bield Scout Hall, Broomlands Street,
Paisley, PA1 2NP 1.15pm to 6.30pm
At our training facility you will get the chance to
watch this AWESOME sport in full action and learn
how to tumble, stunt, jump and dance in a safe
environment. With FREE complimentary food,
drink and entertainment you will get the chance
to socialise, play games and interact in a high
paced fun sport. 11 years and younger - 1.15pm-
2.30pm Watching a performance from our MINI
1 ROSE and YOUTH 1 LIME teams followed by
a taster session 12 years and over Watching
a performance from our JUNIOR 2 MINT and
SENIOR 3 FUSCHIA teams followed by a taster
session www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/twist-hitcheerleaders-free-taster-session
Mon 8 May
Colourful Kilmacolm AGM
Kilmacolm Community Centre,
Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm
Open to everyone. If you have not yet joined, the
very modest £5 annual subscription will support
our efforts. You can opt just to be a supporter,
or to be an ‘active gardener’ and help in practical
ways. Membership forms can be downloaded
from our website www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.
uk or you can phone Peter (01505 872448) or
Diane (01505 872611).
Summer Duplicate Bridge
Kilmacolm Community Centre,
Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 7pm
If you would like to play Bridge during the summer
months why not come along with a partner or
come alone and hope to find one there. Further
information Tel: 87 2345.
Wed 10 May
Intro to Gardening
Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank
1pm to 3pm
Everything you could ever know about our
wonderful gardens. Event led by our very own
Head Gardener. http://www.finlaystone.co.uk
Wed 10 May
Walk a Mile event - Paisley
Fountain Gardens, Love Street, Paisley,
PA3 2DZ 12 noon
Supported by the national charity See Me and
inspired by Chris Young’s UK wide campaign
to end mental health stigma and change the
way people think about mental health. Visit:
https://letswalkamile.org/events/walk-a-milerenfrewshire
Walk commences at 12.30pm
Thu 11 May
Sòlas Bereavement Group
Kidston Hall, High Street, Kilmacolm
6.30pm to 8.30pm
Sòlas Bereavement Group.
Fri 12 May
The Arkleston Singers - Old World
- New World
Lylesland Church, 123 Rowan Street,
Paisley 7.30pm
Old World Music will include Vaughan Williams,
together with music by Daniel Elder, Gwyneth
Walker and Morten Lauridsen from the New
World. New musical director, Marcus Kitchen, will
conduct the choir accompanied by The Arkleston
Chamber Ensemble. Tickets £10 call 01505
85034 / 07932 680951, online WeGotTickets.
com (+ booking fee) OR at the door.
Fèis Phàislig: Family Ceilidh
Wynd Theatre, 6 School Wynd, Paisley,
PA1 2DB 7pm to 11.30pm
Fèis Phàislig (Gaelic for Paisley Festival) is an
arts organisation that provides traditional music
experiences for young people across Renfrewshire.
Our fundraising ceilidh will be a fantastic night of
music and dance, with all proceeds going towards
further opportunities for young people across
Renfrewshire. www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/
feis-phaislig-family-ceilidh
Fri 12 - Sat 13 May
A Sketch, a Sandwich & a Swally
Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8
Steeple Square, Kilbarchan 7pm
The Carrick Players invite you to “Womberang”
by Sue Townsend. Ticket price includes a drink
and a sandwich, available from Bobbins or on
Facebook - £10.
Fri 12 - Sun 14 May
Annual Plant Sale
Lodge Sir Michael 989, Glebe Road,
Kilmacolm
Planters and hanging baskets made to order. Free
advice on plants. Large variety of quality plants
at value for money prices. See outdoors section
for daily times.
Fri 12 - Sun 28 May
Southside Fringe
Various
The Southside Fringe is focused upon providing
a fortnight of quality opportunities for acts,
performers and musicians. None of us as
organisers will be drawing earnings from the fringe
and are running the not for profit business as
volunteers. https://www.southsidefringe.com/
Sat 13 May
Falconry Day
Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank
1pm to 3pm
Join our Falconer and learn some cool facts about
our birds of prey and owls. Flying display weather
permitting. A small charge of £1 to hold a bird or
owl to help with upkeep of the birds. Http://www.
finlaystone.co.uk
Houston Kirk Carnival
Houston & Killellan Kirk, Main Street,
Houston 12noon
HOLLYWOOD themed procession with the Houston
Boys and Girls Brigade Pipe Band. The Carnival
Queen 2017 will be crowned. Many stalls
and games with huge variety of tasty food. All
proceeds will go to the Killellan Halls Fund.

16 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Sat 13 May
Sun 14 May
Sun 14 May
Fri 19 - Sun 21 May
Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow
Agricultural Society 182nd
Annual Show
Knapps Loch, Bridge of Weir Road,
Kilmacolm From 9am
A great day out for the whole family. Visit our
website for schedules and further information -
www.kilmacolmshow.co.uk
Family Volunteering -
Volunteer with your children or
grandchildren
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
1pm to 3.30pm
Who says volunteering is only for grown-ups?
Definitely not us. Here’s an opportunity for
grown-ups and children to do something practical
together in the great outdoors, and to help us Give
Nature a Home. It’s a chance to spend some
quality time with the children in your life, and it’s
free. Please book.
Scottish Disability Sport Para
Sport Celebration
Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip
Road, Lochwinnoch 10am to 4.30pm
Scotland’s only Centre of Excellence for accessible
sailing will be very busy today with limited
car parking. Take away service only in the
café. For more information email admin@
scottishdisabilitysport.com or tel 0131 317
1130.
Tag-n-Track on Show
Knapps Loch, Bridge of Weir Road,
Kilmacolm
Come along and meet the Tag-n-Track team, find
out how we are tagging and tracking birds and
what volunteering opportunities are available.
VENUE Kilmacolm Show.
Sat 13 - Sun 14 May
Langbank Church’s 150th
Anniversary
Langbank Parish Church, Main Road,
Langbank
On the afternoon of Saturday, May 13th the church
will be open to the public, with organ recitals and
entertainment from the school choir. Everyone
is welcome to come and look round the church
whilst listening to the music. A plant sale will
also take place that day in the church car park
from 10.30am – 12.30pm, and cream teas will
be served in the church hall. The service on
Sunday, May 14th at 11am will be conducted
by Rev Ann McCool, moderator of the Greenock
and Paisley Presbytery, and hopefully this will be
well supported. As always, visitors will be made
very welcome.
RYA Push The Boat Out Day
Castle Semple Sailing Club
10.30am to 4pm
Ever fancied trying dingy sailing or other
watersport? Come along and give it a try!!
Castle Semple Sailing Club has a variety of
dinghies which you will be able to see both on
and off the water. Clyde Windsurfing Club will
be demonstrating windsurfing for anyone who
wishes to try this exciting sport. For further info
and book a sail contact dawn@castlesemplesc.
co.uk or contact Mike at mike@clydewindsurfing.
co.uk. Castle Semple Rowing Club will also have
their rowing machines available and clinker built
rowing boat for you to try. All donations to The
Semple Sports Action Partnership (“SSSAP”) are
very welcome and much appreciated.
Den Building
Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank
1pm to 3pm
Join our Rangers in a fantastic afternoon of Den
Building and Bushcraft skills. Are you the next
Bear Grylls? Http://www.finlaystone.co.uk
Jack Hastie - “Weird Tales”
Guide Centre, Barn Green, Kilbarchan
2.30pm to 4pm
Book launch for Jack Hasite’s new book “Weird
Tales”. Refreshments will be provided.
Afternoon Tea with Jersey Tones
Glynhill Hotel, 169 Paisley Road,
Renfrew - From 1.30pm
Our Host for the afternoon will be River City
actress, Carmen Pieraccini who will lead us
through an afternoon of fun and entertainment -
make sure your dancing shoes are on to be ready
to dance to the wonderful sound of The Jersey
Tones. Call 01505 705635 or email info@svh.
co.uk. Tickets are £28pp and available now.
Gourock Highland Games
The Battery Park, Eldon Street,
Greenock PA16 7QG 12noon to 6pm
At this year’s Gourock Highland Games, there
will be pipe band and drum major competitions;
highland dance competitions; heavyweight events;
mini highland games; children’s entertainment;
gift and craft stalls – a great day out for all the
family. There is no public parking available on the
day at Battery Park, so please make use of public
transport links on offer.
Tag-n-Track on Show
The Battery Park, Eldon Street,
Greenock PA16 7QG
Come along and meet the Tag-n-Track team, find
out how we are tagging and tracking birds and
what volunteering opportunities are available.
The Kilbarchan Singers Summer
Concert
Holy Trinity & Saint Barnabas Episcopal
Church, Moss Street, Paisley 7.30pm
Conductor: Edwin Hillier. Songs of Farewell -
Music by Parry, Stanford and Vaughn Williams,
plus a selection from the Kings Singers. Tickets
- £8.50/£5 (under 18s) - available from choir
members or on the door.
New Paisley Brass Group
Martyrs Church, Paisley - 2.30pm
They will be presenting a programme of music
through the centuries.
Kilbarchan Gateway Garden Drop
In Session
Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan 1pm-3pm
Come and help with planting potatoes and veg,
you can even put your name down for a growing
area & start your very own veg plot! All welcome.
For more information and to get involved contact
Gail Scoular on 07985749220, email hello@
kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the group Kilbarchan
Smile on Facebook.
Wed 17 May
Outlook Outing
Glenarm, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
1pm to 5.30pm
Visit to Glenarm at Rhu with afternoon tea at
Helensburgh. Coach, entry, afternoon tea. £15
Thu 18 May
Outlook
Kidston Hall, High St, Kilmacolm 2-4pm
Clydeside Singers return: singalong with popular
tunes, plus update on Mary’s Meals charity.
Fri 19 May
Advertizer June Issue Deadline
The Advertizer - Neva Place, BoW
If you would like anything published in our June
issue, please email info@advertizer.co.uk or call
the office on 01505 613340. Don’t miss out!
Open Evening
The Haven, Horsecraigs, Kilmacolm
3pm to 7pm
Visit us here and learn about the work of The Haven
Kilmacolm. BBQ, CHILDREN’S AREA, TOURS,
HOME-MADE BAKING, CAR WASH, & MUCH MORE!
Admission free! For info contact Sherri 01505
872099, sherri@thehavenkilmacolm.com or visit
www.thehavenkilmacolm.com
Annual Plant Sale
Lodge Sir Michael 989, Glebe Road,
Kilmacolm
Planters and hanging baskets made to order. Free
advice on plants. Large variety of quality plants
at value for money prices. See outdoors section
for daily times.
Sat 20 May
Duchal Nursery Open Morning
Duchal Nursery School - Kilmacolm
10am to 12noon
This is open to anyone who is interested in nursery
places in the future and is a great opportunity to
meet the teachers and current parents and get a
taste for Duchal life, we look forward to welcoming
you. More information is available on our website
www.duchal.com and our Facebook page.
British Pipe Band Championships
St. James Playing Fields, Paisley, PA3 2LB
9am
One of the biggest events in world piping
continues its three-year run in Paisley. With
anywhere between 3,500 and 4,000 drummers
and pipers from across the UK and abroad set to
compete, and over 200 live performances, this
should be a spectacle of sight and sound not to
be missed. Featuring: Food village, Children’s
entertainment zone, Craft market, Free event
parking and shuttle bus. Free.
ACCORD Hospice Summer Fayre
Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley
10am to 4pm
A fun filled day for all the family - Come along
and show your support! Hosting a wide variety of
attractions, homebaking, bric-a-brac, tearoom,
craft stalls, games and competitions, children
inflatable rides, book stalls and much more. For
more info, email fundraising@accord.org.uk
Kilmacolm Horticultural Society
Kilmacolm Community Centre,
Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm 10am to
12noon
Join us for our annual Coffee Morning. Please
come along, meet friends for coffee and chat. The
plant stall which is supplied by Parklea Nurseries
will stock summer bedding, geraniums, fuchsias,
tomato plants, hanging baskets. Plus homebaking
stall, and a Tombola. £3 entry.
Plant Sale
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
12noon to 3pm
Come along and peruse some plants to add to your
garden! Go on – freshen up your garden and help
nature at the same time!

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
17 17
Sat 20 May
Bishopton Christian Aid Plant Sale &
Coffee Morning
The Cornerstone, Greenock Road, Bishopton 10am
to 12noon
In addition to selecting plants on the day, there will be a Preorder
Service for Plants which is obtainable via members of the
Christian Aid Committee. Ticket price includes a coffee/tea and
some home baking. £2.
Kilbarchan Parish Church Plant Sale &
Pancake Morning
Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 10am
to 12noon
Ticket includes coffee with freshly-made pancakes, cream
and jam. To order plants, which are of very good quality from
a nursery in Ayrshire, please phone 704502. As well as preordered
plants, there will be a large variety for sale. Tickets
£2.50 Children £1.
Calder Church Summer Fayre
10am - 12noon in The McKillop Hall, Lochwinnoch
Stalls include Home Baking, Plants & Garden, Jewellery, Arts
& Crafts, Lucky Dip and lots more. Adults £2, Children FREE
includes Tea/Coffee. All welcome.
Messy Church
Kilbarchan Parish Church Hall, Steeple Street 4pm
to 6pm
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Lochwinnoch Explorer Group: Spiders!
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
10am to 12noon
Calling all children! Come along and learn about nature, but most
importantly, get dirty and have fun doing it! We’ll be learning all
about all about spiders! Please wear suitable clothing for being
outdoors. 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)
Castle Semple Rowing Club Regatta
Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochlip Road,
Lochwinnoch - All Day
One of the biggest rowing events in the Scottish calendar! There
will be lots of boats, not much car parking and plenty of spectator
viewing. For more information visit www.castlesemplerc.co.uk
Sat 20 - Sun 21 May
The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating
Show
SEC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow
The go-to exhibition for self builders and renovators. No matter
what stage your project is at, there will be sessions, experts and
exhibitors at the show to help you bring your project to life. For
further information contact: www.sec.co.uk/events
Sun 21 May
Kilmacolm Guides Garden Party
The Guide Hut, Woodrow Avenue, Kilmacolm
We are looking forward to celebrating our 100 years with our
garden party - come and support us so that we can continue
this great community group for another 100 years!! For more
information please contact: kilmacolmguides100@gmail.com
Mini Beast Safari
Finlaystone Country Estate - Langbank 1pm to 3pm
Does it have 6 legs, 8 legs or hundreds of legs? Find out some
great facts about our wonderful wee friends on the estate. http://
www.finlaystone.co.uk
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

18 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Wed 24 May
Sat 27 May
Mon 29 May
Sun 21 May
Waunder’ful Woods
Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road near
Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 11am to 3pm
An opportunity to celebrate our wonderful woods and wildlife
with FREE guided walks on geodiversity, woodland birds,
butterflies (TBC), bird ringing plus ‘Ask about Aspen’, ‘Meet the
Moths’ and a family friendly Wild-Cache activity. Look online
and book an activity or tel 01505 614 791
Tue 23 May
Lilifest: Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards
Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8 Steeple
Square, Kilbarchan 7.30pm
Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards are one of the most popular
bands on the roots music circuit and were hailed by many
as one of the highlights of the 2016 Shetland Folk Festival.
They are back in the UK again as one of the main visiting
acts at this year’s Orkney Folk Festival. Last time they toured
here, Songlines magazine drooled: “This was a celebration
of American string playing par excellence.” Tickets (£12.50)
from 01505 706346 or by e-mail@ info@brookfield-knights.
com BYOB
Lilifest: Physic Evening with Sally Buxton
Old Library Centre, 9 High Barholm, Kilbarchan
7.30pm
Tickets: £10.00 BYOB from 01505 706 070 or by e-mail
kipcokil@hotmail.com. Tickets must be paid for by 19th May.
KIPCO is a charity SCO 31251
The SAY (Scottish Album
of the Year) Award 2017
Longlist
O2 ABC Glasgow, 300 Sauchiehall
Street, Glasgow G2 3JA
The venue welcomes the Award back for
this new ticketed event where SAY Award
alumni Admiral Fallow, Steve Mason
(acoustic) and Mungo’s Hi Fi will perform
live, and 20 outstanding Scottish albums
will be announced as The SAY Award
2017 Longlist. Each of these 20 albums
will be in the running for the £20,000
grand prize, as well as the coveted title
of Scottish Album of the Year 2017.
Further information available from www.
sayaward.com.
Clyde Muirshiel Munchkins:
Pond Splash
The Cut Visitor Centre, Cornalees
Bridge, Greenock
10.30am to 11.30am
The Nature Club splash in to the pond to
see what creatures call it home. £2.50
per child, adults free. Look online or tel
01475 529 543
Fri 26 - Mon 29
May
Ideal Home Show Scotland
SEC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow
From kitchens and bathrooms, to bedrooms and
basements, fixtures and fittings to fine food, gardens
and the latest high tech gadgets, to fashion beauty
and gifts, you’ll find it all under one roof at this awardwinning
show. For further information contact: www.
sec.co.uk/events
Explorer Challenge: Be a Bug!
RSPB, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch
10am to 4pm
Any time! 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 any time between Friday
26th and Monday 29th May, where the friendly staff
will get you started. Then, go out onto the reserve to
find out what it might be like to “be a bug”! Cost: £3
per child (RSPB members £1) [Normal trail fees apply
for accompanying adults]
Sat 27 May
Working with Wood
Muirshiel Visitor Centre, Calder Glen Road,
near Lochwinnoch PA12 4LB 11am to
2.30pm
Make bat, bird or insect boxes or drop in and have a go
at green woodworking. £5 per wildlife box. Look online
or tel 01505 842 882.
St. Aidan’s Annual Fete
St Aidan’s Church House, Tower
Road, Johnstone, PA5 0AD
11am to 2pm
Lots of stalls, beat the goalie, bouncy
castle, wheel of fortune and much
much more. Bring the whole family and
enjoy. Free.
Lilifest: Live Music
The Trust, Kilbarchan 9pm
Live Music in the Trust Inn. Free.
Sun 28 May
Erskine Motorbike Meet
Erskine Care Home, Bishopton
PA7 5PU 1pm onwards
Live music, food vans, displays, stalls, fair
rides, Harry’s Cafe and much more (as
well as 100’s of motorbikes and trikes).
Come along and make a difference.
Lilifest: How We Used to
Live
Habbies, Kilbarchan - 5pm
A journey back in time with rare archive
photos and Kilbarchan memorabilia.
Do you have any interesting cuttings,
brochures or photographs of the village
or people from years gone by? Bring
them along and share with others. Free.
Mad Hatter Tea Party
Finlaystone Country Estate -
Langbank 1pm to 3pm
Join Tickles the Clown and come as Alice
or the Mad Hatter. Join the Rangers for
tea and games on the main lawn. Prizes
for best fancy dressed child. http://www.
finlaystone.co.uk
Lilifest: Habbiemind Quiz
Habbies, Kilbarchan 8pm
Show off your local and historical
knowledge at this special quiz night with
special prizes.
Gateway Garden Party
Cartside Terrace, Kilbarchan
12noon to 4pm
This family fun day will feature music, a
performance by Loud and Proud, LEAP,
Fairtrade/Coop, RSPB and other stalls.
Young Habbies can join storyteller Anne
Pitcher for some interactive storytelling
fun with puppets, props, sound makers
and songs. Hot dogs and refreshments
will also be available (while stocks last).
All are welcome to come and have a
look, meet the volunteers and find out
more about getting involved. For more
information and to get involved contact
Gail Scoular on 07985749220, email
hello@kilbarchansmile.co.uk or join the
group Kilbarchan Smile on Facebook.
Lilifest: Lego Animation
Workshop
Kilbarchan Performing Arts
Centre, 8 Steeple Square,
Kilbarchan 5pm
Join us for an introduction to the world
of stop-motion film-making with local
animator, Morgan Spence. Morgan has
amassed more than 10,000,000 online
views of his animated films and he has
appeared on the BBC and ABC television
in the US discussing his work. He will
present a 90 minute workshop where
he will be sharing his experiences and
knowledge of the craft before assisting
participants in creating their own
animated clips* using Lego. *Please
bring along your own tablet or phone with
the free iMotion animating app. Tickets:
£3.50 www.liliasday.co.uk
Bug Box Making
Finlaystone Country Estate -
Langbank
1pm to 3pm
Join our Rangers in an afternoon of bug
box making. Make a nice wee home for
your friends in the garden, £2.50 charge
for materials used in this event. Http://
www.finlaystone.co.uk
Tue 30 May
Business Bites at the Fox
Fox and Hounds, Main Street,
Houston
10am to 11.30am
This is a free event, with tea, coffee &
breakfasts available if you wish and
of course, no business event could be
without the free WIFI. A casual morning
with meeting and greeting taking place
first followed by a guest speaker. Run
by our Assistant Manager Sarah, who
has over 10 years experience running
a variety of events, including business
networking.
Thu 1 June
Lilifest: An Evening with
Rev Ian Miller
Kilbarchan Performing Arts
Centre, 8 Steeple Square,
Kilbarchan 7.30pm
Kilbarchan’s favourite son returns for
“An Evening With” event. Everyone who
has had the pleasure of his company will
know that Ian is a hugely entertaining
raconteur with an Aladdin’s Cave of
anecdotes and jokes. Tickets £5.50
www.liliasday.co.uk
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

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
19 19
every Monday
Lochwinnoch Community Walk
The Cross, Lochwinnoch 10.30am
This event will not take place on public
holidays.
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.
Postnatal Support Group
Paisley Abbey 10.30am - 12noon
Crèche facilities available along with access to
free counselling services if required.
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
Weekly Volunteer Group
Greenock Cut Visitor Centre 10.30am - 2.30pm
Conservation Volunteers, adult group. Newcomers
always welcome.
every Sunday
Weekly Volunteer Group
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 - 9pm
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.
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.
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
Did you Know?
Your cinema now
offers a range of
enter tainment
from ballet to
sport, comedy
to live music,
opera to theatre,
museums to art
gallery exhibitions,
with much of it
broadcast live by
satellite.
For more information
about these events
contact your local
cinema.
Ralph Vaughan Williams ‘In Windsor Forest’
Daniel Elder ‘Nocturnes’
plus Gwyneth Walker, Morten Lauridsen and familiar favourites
Friday 12 May 2017 at 7.30pm
Lylesland Church, 123 Rowan Street, Paisley PA2 6RZ
Tickets £10 - available from members, by phone from 01505 850 344
/ 07932 680951, online from WeGotTickets.com (+ booking fee)
OR at the door
Scottish charity no 032807
The Arkleston Singers:
Old World - New World
This year’s annual concert by Paisley Chamber Choir The Arkleston Singers will
take place in Lylesland Parish Church, 123 Rowan Street, Paisley PA2 6RZ on
Friday May 12th at 7.30pm.
Old World music will include ‘In Windsor Forest’, a rarely-performed cantata
by Ralph Vaughan Williams, together with music from the New World by
young composer Daniel Elder, Gwyneth Walker and the much loved Morten
Lauridsen.
The concert, full of the choir’s eclectic mix of music for all tastes, will be
conducted by their new Musical Director, Marcus Kitchen, and the Singers will
be accompanied by the Arkleston Chamber Ensemble.
Tickets, priced £10, will be available at the door. Further information from
01505 850344

20 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Fri 2 June
Lilifest: Lilias Day Quiz
The Trust, Kilbarchan 8pm
Lilias Day Quiz with the Quizmaster General.
Free, prizes.
Sat 3 June
Lilias Day Celebrations
Kilbarchan - various from 12noon
A historic parade followed through the village
by decorated floats, pipe and brass bands. The
parade finishes in Kilbarchan Park where a host of
stalls, activities and events take place throughout
the day to raise thousands of pounds for good
causes. www.liliasday.co.uk
Houston & Killellan Agricultural
Show
Schedules for the Craft and Baking section are
available from the Paper Shop and the Post
Office in the village or by e-mail: issistuart@
fsmail.net
Lilifest 2017: Family Fun Day at
Habbies
Habbies, Kilbarchan All Day
Bouncy castle, BBQ and much more. Free.
Lilifest 2017: Barchan Mad
Comedy Night
Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8
Steeple Square, Kilbarchan 7.30pm
This popular comedy night returns on Lilias
Day featuring a great line up of comedians in
a great venue. With your host for the evening,
Graham Barrie. For more info / bookings email
badhatcomedy@outlook.com
Mon 5 June
St Columba’s School Silver Tablet
Concert
St Columba’s Church, Duchal Rd,
Kilmacolm 11.30 am
Musical talent from Senior VI who compete for
this award by performing musical pieces of Grade
8 standard. Members of the School community,
including parents, friends, former pupils, former
staff and former parents are all welcome to attend
this lovely musical celebration. Please contact
nmnkay@st-columbas.org if you wish to attend.
Wed 7 June
Lilifest 2017: Chris Stout &
Catriona McKay
Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre, 8
Steeple Square, Kilbarchan 7.30pm
Chris and Catriona have excited audiences all over
the world with their own unique brand of music
inspired by the traditions of their native Shetland
Islands and Scotland. It’s hard to believe there’s
only two people on stage as they weave their
way between glorious soundscapes and music
of breathtaking simplicity. Tickets (£12.50) from
01505 706346 or by e-mail@ info@brookfieldknights.com
BYOB
Sat 10 June
Bridge of Weir Gala Day
Houston Road Park
Parade starts from Cargill Hall and finishes at the
Park when the fun and games begin!
Lochwinnoch Gala Day
Lochwinnoch Public Park 1.30pm-
4.30pm
Looking forward to welcoming visitors to our
annual Gala Event.
Sun 11 June
Lilifest 2017: Village Voices &
Kilbarchan Parish Junior Choir
Kilbarchan Parish Church, Church
Street, Kilbarchan 2pm
An entertaining evening of song and fun. Directed
by the wonderfully inspiring Moira Gray both
choirs are open to join to anyone interested, no
experience necessary 01505 704948. Tickets £5
/ £14 family ticket (2 adults / 2 children) available
on the door include tea/coffee and cake.
Bowfield 10K
Bowfield Hotel & Country Club,
Howwood
Join St Vincent’s Hospice on June 11th for the
annual Bowfield 10K Walkers and runners are
welcome to tackle our challenging and scenic
course. Walkers start at 10:00am and runners at
11:00. £10 registration fee, all sponsorship goes
to St Vincent’s Hospice. For more information,
contact members@bowfieldhotel.co.uk
Concerts at Martyrs’
Sandyford Church, Paisley
A short series of hour-long concerts will take place both at the King Street and
Montgomery Road church buildings over the months of May and June. Tickets
for all concerts cost £5 and are available at the door on the day.
NEW PAISLEY BRASS GROUP - Sunday 14th May, 2.30pm,King Street, PA1 2LS
- Music through the Centuries.
STRING QUARTET - Sunday 4th June, 2.30pm, Montgomery Road, PA3 4LQfrom
ST MARY’S MUSIC SCHOOL, EDINBURGH, playing Kodaly and Schubert.
THE ORGANISTS ENTERTAIN!! - Sunday 11th June, 2.30pm, King Street, PA1
2LS - Rachel Ong and Stewart Munro present organ music, piano duets,
singing and trumpet solos.
THE ARCARA CONSORT - Sunday 18th June, 2.30pm, Montgomery Road, PA3
4LQ - Ranging from the tiny sopranino recorder to the great sub-contrabass,
Arcara will play some of their favourite music, both early and modern.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
21 21
The Southside Fringe will run from the
12th - 28th May! With 200 events in 50
venues, this is the biggest community
organised event in Glasgow!
The Southside Fringe is focused
upon providing a fortnight of quality
opportunities for acts, performers and
musicians. We also hope to involve as
many venues and businesses as we
can with a view to boosting existing custom over the fortnight and to raise the
profile of the Southside on the arts landscape and draw new customers, visitors
and audiences to the wonderful facilities the Southside has to offer. None of us
as organisers will be drawing earnings from the fringe and are running the not
for profit business as volunteers.
It’s an incredibly exciting time in the Southside with several venues actively
encouraging creativity and supporting local Southside talent. The ethos of the
Southside Fringe is very much ‘strength in numbers’: the more facets of the
community and local businesses who get involved the louder our voice and the
bigger the Southside’s profile will be on the festival map.
https://www.southsidefringe.com/
ACCORD
Hospice
Saturday 20th May
from 10am - 4pm
Hosting a wide variety of
stalls and attractions, the
Accord Hospice summer fayre
will have something for everyone.
On offer will be homebaking, bric-abrac,
tearoom, craft stalls, games and
competitions, children inflatable rides, book stalls and much more. For
more information, email fundraising@accord.org.uk. This is a free event!
St Vincent’s fourth annual Carfest, is moving to Paisley Town Centre!
Come along for a day of fantastic family fun and entertainment, and a
spectacular array of vintage and custom cars and bikes.
Contact our fundraising team on 01505 705635 for more information.

22 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
esteem.
The Full Monty
Wed 3rd - Sat 6th May - From £16
Based on the movie that starred Robert Carlyle, the stage show is set in
Buffalo New York, where 6 unemployed guys’ desperation leads them
to put together a male stripper show to help give them back their self
Scott Gibson: Life After Death
Fri 5th May - 8pm - Beacon Studio - From £10
A darkly hysterical, inspiring show, delivered with the trademark filthy
charisma that Scott is known for; Life After Death is a tale of love and
pain, fear and hope.
Mairi Campbell: Pulse
Thu 6th May - 8pm - Beacon Studio - From £10
Award-winning musician Mairi Campbell presents Pulse, her onewoman
show. A homecoming in viola, voice, movement, animation and
storytelling it is Mairi’s quest to heal cultural wounds.
Tina May & Brian Kellock celebrate Ella &
Oscar
Wed 10th May - 7.30pm - Beacon Studio - From £12
Ella Fitzgerald was the greatest jazz singer and to celebrate her
centenary the UK’s leading jazz vocalist Tina May and her world class
accompanist, pianist Brian Kellock revisit the classic meeting between Ella and piano
giant Oscar Peterson.
MamaBabaMe
Thu 11th May - 11.30am & 2.30pm - Beacon Studio - £5
An exciting new dance, theatre and live music experience made
especially for infants and their grown ups. Through playful movement,
dance and sound, MamaBabaMe explores these profound new
relationships and how this eternal bond evolves and grows.
Winchin
the
Thu 11th May - 7.30pm - From £12
Winchin will bring back memories to those who lived through those
heady days of post war freedom and humour abounds in this poignant
tale of the best days of your life.
Fred Morrison in Concert
Fri 12th May - 7.30pm - From £12
One of celtic music’s most profoundly skilled and audaciously
inventive exponents, Scottish piper Fred Morrison is justly famed for
his passionately expressive style, rooted in the Gaelic traditions of his
father’s native South Uist.
Top of Their Game
Fri 12th May - 7.30pm - Beacon Studio - £10
A celebration of two comedians at the top of their game – pity no-one
can work out what the hell they’re playing at. Warning. Show contains
no heart-warming tales about dead relatives, no redemptive accounts
of sobriety, or anecdotes about life changing encounters with a monk while travelling
around Goa. It will however, be very, very funny.
The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc
Sat May 13th - 7.30pm - From £12
They skillfully weave the many components of their three musical
cultures and traditions together in a hugely atmospheric and dynamic
fashion, all laced through with liberal helpings of humour for good
measure.
Fools On A Hill
Sat 13th May - 8pm - Beacon Studio - From £10
After God appears to one of them in a vision (complete with Kelburn
disco lighting) two Christians take it upon themselves to start spreading
the word of God again, putting the world to rights the only way they
know how.
The North
Wed 17th May - 1.30pm - Beacon Studio - From £5
After their highly acclaimed debut Plan B for Utopia, Joan Clevillé
Dance are back at Beacon Arts Centre with The North, the bleak yet
whimsical story of a young man’s journey in search of understanding
and meaning in an unpredictable environment.
Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra
Thu 18th May - 7.30pm - £12
Tommy Smith plays a repertoire of renowned jazz legends such as
Ellington, Basie, Miles, Golson, and Gillespie. With endless talent,
improvisational skills, exuberance and verve, the music is played with a
collective maturity well beyond their years.
Girls Night OOT!
Fri 19th May - 7.30pm - From £16
To prepare for a marriage all a girl needs are her friends and a guid old
hen night! Banterous, Balshy and Bootyliciously good fun.
Stuart Mitchell: Dealt A Bad Hand
Wed 24th May - 7.30pm - Beacon Studio - From £10
The Glaswegian comic’s sharp one-liners, brilliant turn of phrase and
clever wordplay has made him a perfect choice for regular appearances
on BBC Radio Scotland’s new comedy panel show ‘Breaking the
News’.
Bowie Experience
Night Light
Thu 25th May - 12noon & 2pm - Beacon Studio - £5
Part of the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival on tour. Coproduced
by Imaginate and Red Bridge Arts.
Sat 27th May - 7.30pm - £24
A spectacular concert featuring all of David Bowie’s hits – celebrating
the music of the world’s greatest pop icon.
The Song of Fergus and Kate
Sun 28th May - 2pm - Beacon Studio - £5
The Song of Fergus and Kate is a brand new interactive story that uses
storytelling, music and animation to encourage children to celebrate
their differences.
BEACON ARTS CENTRE, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY, GREENOCK, PA15 1HJ
INFO@BEACONARTSCENTRE.CO.UK TELEPHONE: 01475 723723
FRI
5
MAY
ABBA Mania
Paisley Town Hall
Price: £14 + BF
7.30pm - 10pm
ABBA Mania brings ABBA fans old and new a
night not to be missed. If you’re looking for an excuse
to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by the
best music ever, then ABBA Mania is for you!
SAT
20
MAY
ACCORD Hospice Summer Fayre
Paisley Town Hall
10am - 4pm
This is a free event
On offer will be homebaking, bric-a-brac,
tearoom, craft stalls, games and competitions,
children inflatable rides, book stalls and much more.
For more information, email fundraising@accord.org.uk
Call us on 0300 300 1210 or visit https://boxoffice.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ to book

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
23 23

24 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
New Member and new
President- elect
Members were delighted to welcome Hamid Khatib to
Gryffe Valley Rotary Club at the meeting on 5th April. Hamid is
a Chartered Engineer who worked in the oil and gas industry with Britoil and
BP. Like several of our recent retired new members he is keen to enjoy the
fellowship of Rotary and to contribute
to the Club’s community projects.
At the same meeting, President Peter
Dickie was pleased to announce that
Nigel Jamison has agreed to become
President – elect and will serve the
club as President from July onwards.
Peter and Nigel are working together
to assemble next year’s Council.
Financial Blog
by Carl Melvin, Affluent Financial Planning Ltd
Changes to State Bereavement Payments
The New tax year sees the introduction of a new system of state bereavement
payments. A new Bereavement Support Payment replaces the bereavement
payment, bereavement allowance and widowed parents allowance that was
paid previously. The new rules will mean that a higher initial payment is
made, but subsequent payments will be less generous. The changes are
designed to save the Government around £100 Million per year.
Previously claimants would receive a one-off tax-free lump sum of £2,000,
followed by £5,852 a year before tax for up to 20 years (depending on their
child’s age). Now bereaved parents will receive tax-free payments of just
£9,800 in total – spread over only 18 months.
The changes will affect new claims from April 2017.
So, what’s changed?
• Where a person dies, their spouse or civil partner will get the new
Bereavement Support Allowance
• Those without dependent children receive £2,500 and payments of £100
for up to 18 months
• Those who are entitled to child benefit get a higher payment of £3,500 and
payments of £350 for to 18 months
• The new benefits will not automatically rise in line with inflation unlike the
old system benefits.
• Payments will not be means tested
• Payments will be tax free
Business Bites at the Fox
This event is being held to bring together local business people, bloggers,
creatives, entrepreneurs and community members to connect, grow and
collaborate.
Join us in the Hunters Bar on the last Tuesday of every month from 10am
- 11.30am, the next event will be on Tuesday 30th May 2017. This is a free
event, with tea, coffee & breakfasts available if you wish and of course, no
business event could be without the free WIFI.
The format of the morning will be casual with meeting and greeting taking
place first followed by a guest speaker. Run by our Assistant Manager
Sarah, who has over 10 years experience running a variety of events,
including business networking.
Business Bites attendees will also be eligible to sign up to a members
only mailing list, giving them access to exclusive events, discounts and
promotions all year round.
Venue; Fox & Hounds, South Street, Houston PA6 7EN.
• Cohabiting couples with children are not entitled to claim any benefit at all,
and that is a situation which has not changed from the old system.
The Child Bereavement Network claims that three out of four bereaved
families will be worse off because of these changes.
So, the message is clear – don’t expect the State to support you financially
if you are bereaved. You should review your life assurance arrangements
to make sure your partner and children will have enough money 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.
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

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
25 25
At our meeting on 22nd March, Ross Anderson introduced
John Hanna, known to him for many years through
John’s employment with Scottish Enterprise and Ross’s
former tourism business. John explained how his love of
photography and bird-watching had arisen through a threeyear
long observation of Whooper Swans in connection
with the development of Inchinnan Industrial Estate. He then
entertained us with a display of beautiful photographs of birds, large and
small, common and rare all to be found throughout Scotland. After many
questions on the photographic equipment used and the methodology of
capturing such wonderful
images, Peter thanked
John for opening our eyes
to the beauty of our own
country and its birdlife.
was past president Mike Farley who
spoke lucidly on the topic of Rocks and
Dinosaurs – a subject inspired by his trip
to Colorado and the Dinosaur National
Monument. The current president Peter
Dickie remarked that Mike would be sure
to see a suitably fulsome report in the
Advertizer!
At the Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley
Meeting on 12th April, Gryffe Valley was
delighted to receive a talk from Major
Edwin Tucker, introduced by Ian Beaton
of Beaton Bros, Edwin is a lifetime officer
in the Salvation Army (as were both his
parents before him, and indeed is his
wife of 40 years standing). In his role
as a chaplain, Edwin had spent time
in London, Cardiff and Kirkwall prior
Once a year the club
cedes its booking of the
River Inn function suite to
allow St Columba’s to hold
an annual event. So at a
more intimate meeting on
29th March, the speaker
to his current spell in the
Glasgow area. Edwin is a
past president of 2 Rotary
clubs and is a recipient of
a Paul Harris award. His
talk focussed on his work
in Life Houses – previously
described as hostels for the
homeless. He spoke of the
causes of homelessness
(mostly family breakdown)
and how the Salvation
Army can offer rooms in a
Life House and support to
help their clients rebuild their lives and get back into society. Whilst Edwin
himself offers pastoral care and addresses spiritual needs, the Houses
offer training and guidance on various life skills like budgeting, cooking
and washing clothes with study programmes and activities. Edwin finished
off with a rousing rendition on his cornet of an Easter tune – to rapturous
applause from his audience. Overall this was a heart-warming glimpse
into the rewarding work which the Salvation Army undertakes in support of
many less fortunate members of our community.
Looking forward: there is a full programme of speakers in place on
Wednesday evenings through to the end of June, including a Young Carer,
a senior member of staff at Strathclyde University, a railway enthusiast, and
an expert on the buildings of Glasgow. Guests interested to find out more
about Rotary are invited to attend our speaker meetings by arrangement
with a member or by contacting the club via the contact facility on the
website www.gryffevalley-rotary.org.uk/.

26 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Local growth
needs to be
government
focus
Official statistics published today
show that the Scottish economy
contracted by 0.2 per cent during
the fourth quarter of 2016. Over the
whole of 2016, Scottish GDP grew by 0.4 per cent – compared to growth
across the UK of 1.8 per cent.
Andy Willox, FSB’s Scottish policy convenor, said: “Today’s anaemic growth
figures shows there’s much to do to nurse the Scottish economy back to
health.
“In 2016, the decline in our oil and gas industry obviously hit many firms and
local economies hard. The cost of employment also went up substantially
last year – with the impact of pension auto-enrolment and big increases to
the national living wage having a substantial impact on Scotland’s large
service sector.
“Scottish small business confidence fell substantially after last year’s vote
to leave the European Union – but smaller firms north of the border were
more pessimistic about business prospects even before the poll.
“If Scotland is to avoid recession, we need to see action from governments
in Edinburgh and London to boost local firms. Scottish Government and UK
Government Ministers need to avoid fixating on inward investment – and
put real effort into developing genuinely resilient local economies.”
Calling Past Columbans
ColumbansConnect offers a network that will provide wonderful opportunities
for all its members; re-connecting with former classmates, making new
connections, finding jobs and signing up to a rich and varied programme of
events and activities.
By fully integrating with social networks and cultivating a culture of helping
and giving back, you will be amazed how vibrant your St Columba’s
community is.
Visit the website: https://columbansconnect.org or contact the development
department at St Columba’s School: fps@st-columbas.org or 01505
872238
2017 Local Government Election
On Thursday 4th May 2017 the Scottish Local Government elections will
take place for all 32 local authorities. Voting in these elections will take place
between 7am and 10pm for all registered voters who are aged 16 or over on
the day of the election.
Electors in Renfrewshire will be asked to elect a total of 43 councillors
across 12 wards. This is an increase from the former 40 councillor/11
ward composition of the council and has been introduced by the Scottish
Government following the review of local authority wards and councillor
numbers by the Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland.
46 candidates will contest 22 seats on Inverclyde Council in 7 Wards Electors
in Inverclyde, Ward 1 (which covers Kilmacolm), have a choice between 5
candidates with 3 councillors to be elected.
Voting will be by the Single Transferable Vote method and the results will be
announced on Friday 5th May.
Renfrewshire’s largest free business event returns to Paisley for the 7th
consecutive year on Thursday 18th May at the Lagoon, Paisley.
“Business Matters in Renfrewshire –your local B2B event” is organised
by Renfrewshire Chamber and is open to all members & non-members,
business people, start-ups, senior school pupils and students.
With 50+ exhibitors and 6 seminars running throughout the day the
event is sponsored by bizanywhere.
Seminar line-up:
1. 10.15 - 11.00 “Tech, the Cloud and Cyber Security” with bizanywhere
& Seric Systems
2. 11.15 - 12.00 “How to build your International Business” with
ExpoRen
3. 12.15 - 13.00 “Paisley 2021/Invest/City Deal” with Renfrewshire
Council
4. 13.15 - 14.00 “Making Change Easy” with HeadStrong
5. 14.15 - 15.00 “Social Media - Pay to Play” With NSDesign
6. 15.15 - 16.00 “Sell More by Selling Less” with Sandler Training
Commenting on the event chief exec Bob Grant said “B2B 2017 is a
great way to engage face to face with the wider business community.
If you are in business in Renfrewshire I strongly recommend coming
along. It’s a great opportunity to meet new and existing contacts and
network with 50+ businesses in one go. The free informative seminars
throughout the day are an excellent way to learn new skills and refresh
old ones. We look forward to welcoming you on the day.”
For more information and to register your place please visit the Chamber
events page at www.renfrewshirechamber.com The event is free to
attend (there is a cost to exhibit).
Hashtag for the event is #b2bpaisley
Weir Networking
Friday 12 May 2017, 9.30am
Weir Networking is a Business Networking Group
for local business owners to get together and
make contact. The next meeting will be on Friday
12 May when we will be having an Open Floor event.
This is where we invite members of the group to talk about their business or
discuss points of interest to business owners.
Come along on Friday morning, at 9.30am, to find out more and see what
we can do to help you and your business. We meet for breakfast and a chat
in Amaretto Ristorante, 60 Main Street, Bridge of Weir.
All businesses welcome - just £5 per person!

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
27 27

28 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Renfrewshire Council extends
Consultation period
IT Blog
with Colin Fyfe of Colcom
Safe mode is a handy diagnostic tool available in Windows used to
repair driver and software errors or to help with virus removal. Before
Windows 8 came along, starting a computer in Safe Mode was a
relatively straight forward process. On turning the computer on;
tapping the F8 key every second until the onscreen prompt appears,
then cursor to Safe Mode and hit enter.
Since the F8 key on start-up no longer has the same effect on Windows
10 or its immediate predecessors, a lot of computer users that were
previously wise to this handy tool now think Safe Mode no longer
exists. In fact, it does still exist, Microsoft just made it more difficult for
us. Because technology giants like to do that sometimes.
The notable thing about entering Windows in Safe Mode the way
Microsoft would have us do so; is that we need to access Windows in
‘Normal’ mode first. So, if we cannot access our computer because our
video driver is corrupt, we are snookered – at least to any extent that
this article can stretch to. The good news is that we don’t need to go
past the login screen on Windows’ start-up.
From this screen or indeed, from the Start Menu within Windows, select
the ‘Restart’ option but as you do so, depress and hold the Shift Key on
the Keyboard; An onscreen prompt appears giving us further options.
These include the option to ‘Troubleshoot’. Select this; avoiding the
light sounding yet deadly ‘Refresh’ option. Followed by ‘Advanced
Options’ then ‘Start-up Settings’ and ‘Restart’. Select Safe mode on
Start-up and you are away.
They say removing the Safe Mode option from start-up improves
Windows’ boot up speed but; like the parking restrictions in Kilmacolm;
‘progress’ always comes with a price.
Consultation on Renfrewshire’s Main Issues Report and
Environmental Report Extended until 30th May
Renfrewshire Council has published its Main Issues Report and
accompanying Environmental Report as the first stage in preparing the next
Local Development Plan for Renfrewshire. The Main Issues Report sets
out the main changes and issues that have emerged since the adoption
of the current Renfrewshire Local Development Plan in 2014, as well as
setting out the Council’s preferred options and alternatives for development
across Renfrewshire.
To provide additional time for consultation and engagement on the
Renfrewshire Local Development Plan Main Issues Report (2017) we
have decided to extend the consultation period by one month, with the
consultation period now ending on Tuesday 30 May 2017.
The Main Issues Report, Environmental Report and associated Background
Papers are available to view online at: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/
article/3070/Preparation-of-the-next-Local-Development-Plan
Paper copies of the documents are available to view at the Customer Service
Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1JD between
the hours of 8:45am and 4:45pm, Monday to Thursday and 8:45am and
3:55pm on a Friday, and at all Council libraries.
You can submit your views on the Main Issues Report and Environmental
Report using the online Consultation Response Form which is available to
download at the web address detailed above.
Completed response forms should be sent to localplanconsultation@
renfrewshire.gov.uk or by post to: Development & Housing Services,
Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley PA1 1JD
To discuss the Main Issues Report or Environmental Report, or for
any other related matters, please phone 0141 618 7838 or email
localplanconsultation@renfrewshire.gov.uk
BOOK
people
Jack Hastie - “Weird Tales”
Here are fifteen stories of the weird and
wonderful, the tragic and the vengeful, with
a Scottish flavour. Sometimes satirical,
sometimes lyrical, the collection makes some
scathing comments on commercialism and
political correctness in contemporary society.
Don’t read on unless you are prepared to
accept “a willing suspension of disbelief” in
things that should never happen.
Retired lecturer Jack Hastie puts aside
his children’s writer’s hat and launches
something very different. Says Jack, “These
stories were written over the last twenty five
years and have been published in obscure
small press magazines and the anthologies
of local writers’ groups. They were in danger of being lost to
posterity if I had not collected them here. Some are pure invention, but
others reflect real experiences I have had; ‘The Storyteller’ was inspired by
a meeting in Crete in 1994; ‘Victor’ by something I saw in Gran Canaria in
2014. ‘Changelings’ arose from an accident in which I was involved in 1975
in which I was certain - for about half an hour-that I was about to die. On the
other hand ‘Nemesis’ and ‘Charity’ take the form of discussions and explore
the relationships between Peace, Love and Justice.”
The launch will take place in the Guide Centre, High Barholm, Kilbarchan
on Sunday, 14th May from 2.30pm - 4pm. Refreshments will be provided.
Jack, father of two, grandfather of four, has previously published two
children’s novels, “Fraser’s Voices” and “Neither Dead Nor Alive” and
several collections of children’s short stories which were originally written
for his grandchildren. “I’ve run out of grandkids,” he jokes (the youngest
is nearly sixteen); “ I’m waiting for one of them to present me with a great.”
For more information visit www.jackhastie.com

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
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30 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
LOCAL
history
Kilbarchan May 1917
A young Kilbarchan Man’s Spiritual Journey
Robert Lang Campbell
Robert Lang Campbell was born in Kilbarchan on the 21st of January 1825.
His parents, Alexander and Agnes (née Lang) Campbell, were members of
the Chartist Church in the village. Robert and his elder brother John, much
to the chagrin of their father, attended Mormon Missionary meetings. At the
age of seventeen Robert, who had trained as a clerk, was baptised into the
Church of the Latter Day Saints on the 9th of August, 1842.
He began his missionary
work in the local area and
Ayrshire and kept a diary
recording his activities.
In company with other
Public domain: Courtesy of L. Tom Perry Special
Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young
University
Mormon missionaries
he preached in the open
air, in people’s homes
and at local collieries.
Sometimes the group
was well received and on
other occasions reception
was antagonistic. In
September he was accosted in Howwood by a drunk man with a broken
glass who almost stopped their preaching and, on a mission to Dalry, the
missionaries twice in one day got a poor reception from very inattentive
sinners. In November, 1843, at the age of eighteen, Robert Campbell was
ordained as a Mormon Priest. However, despite his dedication, he made
time to visit Kilbarchan to see his sweetheart, Joan Scobie, and his family.
In January, 1845, Robert left his home country and sailed from Liverpool on
his way to Nauvoo, the centre of the Church of the Latter Day Saints. The
following November Joan Scobie arrived at Nauvoo after a journey of ten
weeks, and Robert and Joan were married by Patriarch John Smith. The
young couple settled happily in the town’s Mormon community, and Joan
was soon pregnant. But peace and harmony was not to last.
In September of 1846 persecution of the Mormons in Nauvoo escalated,
with a violent mob firing cannon at the Brethern. For days, battle raged in
the town. Eventually a truce was agreed. The mobocrats were the victors
and the Mormons were given ten days to leave the town. On 9th October the
Mormon community set off on a long, arduous trek across rivers and prairie
to winter quarters. Robert was given part of a wagon to store his effects
and he and Joan set off on foot. One week into the journey Joan died in
childbirth. Robert, at the age of twenty-one, was left alone and homeless in
an alien land. Despite grieving, and now also suffering from a fever, Robert
had no option but to continue the fifty day trek to the winter quarters.
© 2017, Helen Calcluth, Renfrewshire Local History Forum.
Johnstone History Society
The continuing Battle of Arras and the advance on the Hindenburg Line
continued to take its toll.
Private Alexander Purdon Grant was born at 33 Church St, Kilbarchan on
18th November 1893. He served with the 9th Highland Light Infantry’s 9th
(Highlanders) battalion and went to France with them on 5th November
1914. He was killed on 1st May 1917 and is buried at Croisilles. He was
23.
Private James Davidson, served with the 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers, 12th
Brigade, 4th Division and was killed in the Battle of the Scarpe, the
attempted breakout after the initial successes of the Battle of Arras. In the
1911 census he is described as a 34 years old commercial traveller, who
had been born in Glasgow. He has no known gave and is commemorated
on the Arras Memorial. He was 41.
2nd Lieutenant Colin Houston served with the 15th Battalion of the
Australian Imperial Forces. Before he emigrated he had been a clerk in
a shipbuilding company and the 1911 census states that he resided in 1
Church St, Port Glasgow. He was in Australia when the war broke out and
enlisted in late 1915. After officer training in England he went to France
on 17th March 1917 and was killed on the 3rd of May. He has no known
grave is commemorated on the Australian Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.
He was 27.
Private Robert Burns began his army career in the Army Service Corps
before being transferred to the 10th Lancashire Fusiliers, 52nd Brigade,
17th (Northern) Division. In 1911 he lived at 43 Claremont Terrace, Glasgow,
where his father was a domestic chauffeur. Robert lived in Gryffe Castle
Cottage when he joined the army. He was killed on 12th May 1917, has no
known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial. His name is on
both Kilbarchan and Bridge of Weir’s memorials. He was 20.
Our May meeting and the last for this year will be on Tuesday the 9th of
May 2017 in the Masonic Hall Collier Street at 7.30 Our speaker this month
is Alexander Hall returning for a second time after a very enjoyable and
interesting talk last year . This years talk is on “ The Relief of Malta “ which
also promises to be a very interesting evening . New members and visitors
will always be made very welcome. Our April meeting was an evening
learning about Burns and was much enjoyed . We were joined by a few
visitors and we hope they felt welcome .
The Museum continues to open Wednesday Friday and Saturday from
10.30 am till 4pm and will be opened as usual right through the summer. We
have a good stock of books maps and publications on sale in the Museum
and these can also be bought online at johnstonehistory.org and paid for
via PayPal.
Gryffe Advertizer - Current & Past Issues
www.advertizer.co.uk/issues

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
31 31
Collins Tyres - at
your Service
Next time your car needs a service, an MOT or
new tyres, try Collins Tyre Service of Elderslie.
Phil and Shirley Anne have been running their
successful business for 22 years, with their
sons Peter and Matthew more recently joining
the team.
This well established family business now
boasts two mechanic bays, two tyre bays and
a fresh and bright reception area and toilets.
There’s also a lovely new waiting room with tv
and tea/coffee facilities. And, all this has been
acheived without the loss of parking, which is
more than ample.
Charity Car Wash
The Gryffe Valley Rotary Charity
Car Wash organised in
conjunction with Beaton Bros
was a great success. Beaton’s
staff and friends worked with a
rota of Rotary members to give
around 150 cars a treat.
The customers generously donated £1092 which will be used to support
local charitable
needs. Peter
Dickie thanked
Ian Beaton and
the Beaton Bros
team for their
hard work and
the company for
its community
service as
a Corporate
Member of Gryffe
Valley Rotary
Club.
Tel: Phil Collins, Collins Tyre Services Ltd on
01505 336666.
SEE A POTHOLE
REPORT IT!
Call 01475 717171
Report online at
https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/
environment/roads-lighting/rep
ort-a-fault
You can also write to:
Inverclyde Council
Municipal Buildings
Clyde Square
GREENOCK
PA15 1LY
Call 0300 3000 300
Online fault report at
https://selfservice.renfrewshir
e.gov.uk/Ef3/General.jsp?for
m=SS_RoadAndLightFault&p
age=pg_locatestreet
You can also write to:
Community Resources
Renfrewshire House
Cotton Street
Paisley, PA1 1BR

32 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Join LEAP Car Club in Spring
LEAP Car Club offers convenient, 24/7, not-for-profit community car hire
and can help
you cut the
costs of driving.
Cars can be
hired for as
little as an hour
or for as long
as you want.
The Car Club
has helped
members by
allowing them
to sell additional
cars or to not
have to buy
one. What our
members say:
- “Reliable cars there when I need them.”
- “For someone who does not own a car it is very useful to have access to
a car at any time for short periods.”
- “It is so easy to book online. Great value for money too.”
To find out more contact Car Club Coordinator Mike Callaghan T: 01505
842530 E: mike@myleapproject.org
Milngavie Classic Car Show
Saturday 17 June 10am-4pm, Milngavie Town Centre, G62 6BJ,
We are delighted to host the 3rd Car Show in Milngavie Town Centre. We
are expecting to fill precinct with almost 100 classic, vintage, veterans and
supercars this year!
We teamed up with the British Transport Police and local community groups
to make this event even more interesting!
We will have a number of kid’s attractions from face-painting to balloon
twisting on the day. We also thought about adults as we will have safety
demonstrations and free bicycle marking organised by local police! Not to
mention about delicious food providers and market stalls at the event!
For all car owners interested in participating at this year event please go to
Our Buzz Milngavie: http://www.ourbuzz.co.uk/milngavie/find/lister/events/
milngavie-bid_796
Motoring Laws You Have No
Idea You’re Breaking
The chances are that you’ve broken one or more of these laws without ever
having realised it was illegal to do so. To avoid the risk of fines or worse,
read our list here.
Some of these are obscure, some not so obscure, but all of them are
offences that a majority of motorists have absolutely no idea that they’re
committing. Before you put yourself at risk of fines or worse, read through
our list, courtesy of Saga Magazine, and see how many you didn’t even
know you were breaking.
1. Using your fog lights wrong
Technically, you should only
switch your car’s rear fog lights
on when visibility is “seriously
reduced”, which is usually taken
to mean when your visibility
ahead is reduced to less than 100
metres.
Believe it or not, drivers who
switch their fog lights on for any old sprinkling of light mist or if it starts
to rain heavily are actually committing an offence and running the risk of
getting fined.
2. Not stopping at stop signs
It’s common when you’re
preparing for your driving test that
your instructor will insist that you
always come to a complete halt
at stop signs, otherwise you’ll fail
your test.
However, it’s not just your driving
examiner you’ll risk getting in hot
water with if you fail to stop completely. Given that stop junctions are an
instruction to stop completely, if you don’t fully stop at the sign, even if the
road is clear, you run the risk of being given three points on your licence.
We’ll be running an article each month highlighting some of these.
The Erskine Classic Car Show
Saturday 1 July 12pm - 5pm at intu Braehead, Arena and Boardwalk
Back for 2017 with an exciting new location at intu Braehead, arena &
boardwalk, Renfrewshire, Scotland. Come along on Saturday 1st July
to experience the fun and excitement of Erskine’s annual show with
over 300 cars on display from old classics to super cars, live music and
entertainment, car demonstrations, guest speakers, fun fair, raffles, pop up
shops and much more. If you love cars, old or new then you can’t afford to
miss this great day out for all the family. Entry is £5. Kids go free.
All profits go to helping ex-service men and women.
If you or your club are interested in exhibiting your car(s) please contact
Susannah Todd Susannah.todd@erskine.org.uk 0141 814 4567 or
Download a Registration Form from the website: https://www.erskine.org.
uk/event/classic-car-show-2017/

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
33 33
Lochwinnoch Bike Swap a
great success
Thanks to everyone who came
along to LEAP’s Bike Swap in
Lochwinnoch. This time round LEAP
partnered with Clyde Muirshiel and
RT Cycles and held the SWAP
outdoors at Castle Semple Country
Park. Over 60 people came to
swap their bikes, their children’s
bikes, to donate bikes or to find out
what a Bike Swap was all about. RT
Cycles were on hand on the day at
their cycle base to offer guidance
on basic cycle checks. If you are
interested in future Bike Swaps
or are keen on getting involved
in LEAP events, contact LEAP by
email to enquiries@myleapproject.
org or look out for the latest news
at www.myleapproject.org/news or
www.facebook.com/myleapproject.

34 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Paisley Colour’s 3rd Bimonthly
Competition Results
Paisley Colour Photographic Club were very pleased to welcome
experienced photographer Alex McNaughton from Beith Camera Club to
judge the third of the session’s bimonthly competitions held recently at the
McMaster Centre in Renfrew.
In this competition members could submit up to three digital images each
and Alex gave meticulous consideration to each of the sixty six images in
the sections: Introductory, Intermediate and Advanced. The standard in all
three sections was high and Alex admitted that his task of ranking the top
fifteen images in the advanced section was extremely difficult.
He gave encouragement discussing the strengths of each image in turn
and also gave helpful suggestions as to how an image could be improved
but also kept members entertained with some humorous comments.
In the Introductory section Ken Dow
swept the board with the top three images. His images included “Common
Blue Damselfly” and “Great Banded Grayling”.
In the Advanced section Alex
awarded third place to Guy Phillips
for his fantastic black and white
rugby action shot entitled “Going
For It”. Mike Cruise’s beautifully lit
and detailed natural history image
“Cuckoo” was placed in second
place whilst Alex chose Richard
In the Intermediate section
“Blackrock and Snow” by Tony Barr
came third and “Clouds Over the
Castles (Arran)” also by Tony Barr
was judged in second position. The
top image in this section was by Jim
Murdoch entitled “Sumatran Tiger”.
Bennett’s powerful and emotional Yellowstone image “Bison Blizzard” as
the top image and winner of the 3rd bimonthly competition.
For further details about PCPC and updated members galleries please
view: www.paisleycolour.co.uk.
Diaporama
This months meeting was “Les Girls de Houston” i.e. the girly night!
Unfortunately, due to different circumstances, only three of us could be there
but we had a full, exciting meeting planned. As Colin was unable to take
part in the “Yorkshire Amigos” meeting in January, it was decided he would
start the evening with four of his shows. As usual his shows were great with
a ‘Ballet’ sequence, a show looking at ‘Graffiti’ with its fantastic art work, a
visit to the Norwegian Islands with ‘Lofoten Views’ and he finished with a
series of images - dancers, paintings, local scenes, landscapes- made to
look like a book with the pages turning. The ‘girls’ then took over! We had
11 sequences in total-all very different.
Fiona showed a ‘Dog’s Life’ which she
made with Val in mind (Val loves dogs),
2 travelogues ‘Autumn in Arran’ and
‘Faroes’ -with fantastic weather and
views! She made ‘Snow is Falling’ as a
tribute to the war and the people involved
- it was beautifully made and very
moving. Sue took us ‘Across the Glacier’
-a trip across the Lungjokuller glacier in
Iceland, a look around ‘Honningsvag’
-the most northerly city in Norway and a
visit to the Advent Valley in ‘Svalbard 2’
looking at the landscape and flora in their
spring (July) and autumn (September)
to highlight the
short growing
season. Val used her I-phone to take the images
for the sequence ‘French Doors’. As expected a
sequence called ‘Sisters’ (using the song of that
name) looked at 2 ‘sister’ dogs playing together and
enjoying each others company. She interpreted
the song for ‘The Trawler man’s Song’ and finished
the evening with ‘Water Garden’ -a visit she made
with a group of French rose growers. We had our
usual tea/coffee break but this time we had home
baked tea bread and scones to eat! We had other
activities planned but ran out of time so
these will be kept for another meeting
but we all went home with a AV based
word search to do!
Our last meeting for this session is on
Monday 8th May, 7.30pm in the Carrick
Centre, Houston. It will be our AGM and
Annual Competition. Visitors are always
welcome.
Gryffe Camera Club
With only a few more meetings left before the Summer Break, Gryffe
Camera Club have recently enjoyed talks from Eddie Telford on The 10
Commandments of Photography, Landscapes by Robert Fulton and an
interesting presentation titled Altered Reality, where all the photographs
were made from composites of several images put together - the only
limitation was the imagination of the author.
We have held our Triptych
competition, where 3 images of a
single or related subject were shown
as a panel. The winner of the B
section was Chris Kyle with Balloon
Pop, with the runner up being
Barbara Martin with BBC zoomer.
The winner of the A section was
Sandy Thomson with Landing, with
the runner up being Kate Cummings
with Hydrangea leaves.
looking for someone local?
www.advertizer.co.uk/clients
Full details of the Club activities and images can be found on the website.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
Council Ready for
New Coin
35 35
Inverclyde Council is reassuring motorists that
all of its car park pay machines are ready to
accept the new 12-sided £1 coins.
Claimed to be the most secure coin in the world
it is now being introduced into circulation.
Inverclyde Council called in engineers at
the start of the year to make the necessary
adjustments and software updates to the 12 pay
machines at its car parks to ensure motorists
will not be inconvenienced.
The Royal Mint is replacing the current £1 coin
for the first time in over thirty years because
it has proven vulnerable to counterfeiters.
Approximately one in thirty £1 coins currently in
circulation are fakes.
The new coin has a number of features that
make it more difficult to counterfeit including its
distinctive shape, an image that appears like
a hologram and a hidden high security feature
built into the coin itself.
Both the round and 12-sided £1 coins can
be used until Sunday 15 October when the
legal tender status of the round coin will be
withdrawn.
From this date shops will no longer accept
these coins although people will still be able to
take them back to their bank.
Is it a crime to
threaten online?
A question on the Ask the Police website reads: “Someone is
sending me threatening/abusive/offensive messages via a social
networking site. Is this a criminal offence?”
If a person sends threatening/abusive/offensive messages to another
person via Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site, they could
be committing an offence. The most relevant offences are ‘harassment’ and
‘malicious communications’.
For harassment to be committed, there must be a ‘course of conduct’ (i.e.
two or more related occurrences). The messages do not necessarily have
to be violent in nature, but must be oppressive and need to have caused
some alarm or distress.
If there has only been a single communication, which would be insufficient
for the offence of harassment (above), there could be an offence relating to
malicious communications. For such an offence to be committed, a message
must be sent to another person (or sent via a public communications network)
that is indecent, grossly offensive, obscene or threatening/menacing.
You can report either of these to your local police force who will be able to
confirm whether an offence has been committed, based on the full facts and
your individual situation. In order to assist the police with their investigation
you must not respond to the message as it may encourage the sender and
make the situation worse, also you could take a screen shot of the message
so if it gets deleted later there will still be a record of what was said.
However, depending on the circumstances and the nature of the messages,
you may wish to initially make a report to Facebook/Twitter etc., as they
have processes in place for such situations, and may be able to simply
remove the content and/or close down the person’s account.
Did you know that you can trace the sender of an email? It does
require some technical savvy, but it can be done.
If you have been on the receiving end of unwanted emails, whether spam
or malicious, or just plain annoying, and you can’t unsubscribe from these,
you can resort to tracing the sender through a few websites.
Interestingly, sending a threatening
or malicious message using a public
electronic communications network,
including sending such a message by
email, can comprise an offence under the
Communications Act 2003. Additionally,
the Protection from Harassment Act 1997
can apply to threatening messages sent by email or by other forms
of communication. Both criminal penalties and civil remedies are given.

36 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir
Lace Group
Bridge of Weir Lace Group meets
fortnightly on Tuesday mornings
(10am - 12noon) during the winter
months. If you’d like to try lacemaking
we can provide materials & tuition.
For further details phone (01505)
613967.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Senior Citizens Club
We meet at Cargill Hall every 2nd and
4th Wednesday 7 - 9pm. 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.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Mill of Gryffe Road, Bridge of Weir -
Deterioration
There have already been several concerns raised by local residents who are
attempting to navigate this now utterly ruined stretch of Mill of Gryffe Road
(Section running from bollards at intersection of Kilmacolm Road and Mill of
Gryffe Road down to intersection at Mimosa Road). The road is walked by many
young and elderly people and has now become a real hazard.
The driving and walking of this road is now at a critical and dangerous stage. The
building of the housing estate on the site of the old leather factory has obviously
increased traffi c fl ow and subsequent erosion.
The Road has been on the decline for years and is now impossible to drive without
having to bump into many deep pot holes. There is no way to snake around them
any longer, while the damage to tyres and suspension is becoming costly.
Residents are hoping to raise awareness among the local community and get
some kind of action group in motion to get this road fi xed and fi t for purpose.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bishopton Day
Bishopton Day this year is on Saturday
17th June, with the parade led by St
Columba’s pipe band leaving Bishopton
Primary School at 12 noon. Also in
the parade will be SambaYaBamba
who are a percussion group that play
Brazilian samba music. Both will also
perform in the main arena.
Attractions on the day include dancing
displays, football and rugby displays,
live music, magician, vintage fi re
engine, model railway, pony rides,
infl atables and charity stalls.
Entry is £2 per adult and kids go free.
More information on the website or
Facebook page.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
French Conversation
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir
Choral Society
Our Spring Concert will be held on
Sunday 7th May in St. Columba
Church Kilmacolm under the baton of
our Conductor Christopher Barr. The
accompanist is Chris Nickol and the
soloists are from the Conservatoire
The centre piece of the programme
is Mozart’s Mass in C Major and the
choir will also perform works by Finzi
and Vaughan Williams.
The ticket price, including a programme
is £10 available from choir members
and on the door.
For further information contact Ernie
Smyth on 01505 702997
Our French conversation group Is going from strength to strength. We now have
about 9 participants plus an informal study group for those who either want to
start from beginning or who want to revive what they learned at school. Contact
avril.forbes2015@outlook.com or 07463570464. Margaret Forbes. We meet at
Bernie’s in Bridge of Weir every Wednesday 9.30am -12noon. Come and join us!
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir SWI
At our recent AGM and Mini Show there were several prize winners.
Mabel McPherson won the Points trophy, with Brenda Lindsay and
Pat Allan as runners up. The Duncan Cup was won by Pat Allan with a knitted
baby jacket. Mabel McPherson’s sponge cake won her the Muirhead Cup.
The season ends with an outing to Drumlanrig Castle at the beginning of June.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
RagBag Recycle Bin - Langbank
There is now a permanent RagBag Recycle bin sited in
the school car park of Langbank Primary School for any
of your unwanted textiles (no duvets or pillows). Any
money raised from this will go to Langbank Playgroup.
If anyone has any items and is unable to get to the
recycle bin please call Jacqueline on 01475 540728.
Thank you in advance.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
37
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir Co-op Food Bank
Donation Bin
Bridge of Weir Co-op now has a
Renfrewshire Food Bank donation
bin of its very own – many thanks to
store manager Angela for allowing
Renfrewshire Food Bank to set up a
donation bin in such a prominent site
within the store – at the tills!
Renfrewshire Food Bank looks forward
to receiving your generous donations
of tins, jars or packets of food, toiletries
and cleaning products.
1 ton of food is distributed by
Renfrewshire Food Bank every week in the Renfrewshire area.
People requiring the services of the Food Bank are referred by health
professionals and social services and a voucher is issued for food. A three day,
dietician approved food parcel can then be collected from a local distribution site
in Renfrewshire.
A list of foods required can be found at the donation bin. *Renfrewshire Food
Bank is unable to accept fresh food or alcohol... Thank you x
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents
Association
The latest meeting of Bridge of Weir TARA was very well attended with a number
of topics concerning the village discussed, and we’d like to pass on our thanks
to Cllrs Maria Brown and James MacLaren, Police Offi cers Brian Dick and Martin
Norwood, Dave and Jamie from Renfrewshire Wardens Service and Sandra Blair
from Renfrewshire Council housing department for their attendance.
The Police report showed only four crimes committed within the confi nes of the
village over the past month, these were a serious assault in the street {culprit
apprehended}, a common assault, a theft from a motor vehicle and a case of
sheep worrying where a dog had slip it’s lead.
The Wardens Service report showed that there was a number of issues
surrounding the village that they were assessing while patrolling. As we get into
the longer summer evenings anti-social behaviour and drinking are becoming
more prevalent around the village, the back of Livery Walk and the bottom of
Station Road have been patrolled regarding this. Dog fouling is also on the rise
again, and especially the cases of owners taking the time to bag their dog’s poo
but then leaving it hanging from trees or sitting on walls. Why? Dog poo once
bagged can go in any public bin, and if one isn’t available, please take it home
with you.
The two planning appeals for housing to be built at Whitelint Gate and on to the
north east of the Kilmacolm Road, will have a public meeting on the 18th July.
This meeting however will only be concerned with the Housing Land Supply in
Renfrewshire, as the reporters from the Scottish Government hearing the appeals,
think they already have enough information from residents, SEPA, Scottish Water
etc. TARA will have representation at the meeting.
The next meeting of the Bridge of Weir Tenants and Residents Association will be
in the Pirie Centre, Freeland Church on the 16th May at 7.30pm. If you’ve got a
view on a local matter, why not come along and air it. All are welcome.
Confirmed events
Saturday 10th June
Bridge of Weir Gala Day in
Houston Road Park. Parade
leaves Cargill Hall 12 noon. Gala
Queen crowned at 12.45pm
and then offi cially opens Gala
Day at 1pm. This year’s theme
is “Commotion in the Ocean”.
{Please note that there will be
no public car parking within the
park on the day}
Sunday 11th June
Pet Service in St. Mary’s Church
at 3pm {Nothing bigger than a
dog please}
Gala Praise for all the family in
St. Machar’s Church at 7pm.
Monday 12th June
Gryffe Voices Community Choir
in Freeland Church at 8pm
Tuesday 13th June
Football Fiesta in Moss Road
Park from 6.30pm
Wednesday 14th June
Hope Hall Family Fun Night in
Moss Road Park from 6.30pm
{Will be held in Hope Hall if
weather bad}
Thursday 15th June
Senior Citizens Association
Festival Afternoon Tea in
Freeland Church at 2pm. Tickets
£2. {All home baking donations
welcome}
Festival Bingo Night in the Royal
British Legion {Scotland}, doors
open 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm.
Entry £2, includes light buffet.
Saturday 17th June
Festival Week Ceilidh in the
Royal British Legion {Scotland} at
7.30pm until late. Dance to the
music of ‘The Reel Fling’. Entry
by ticket only. Tickets £10 each
from the Festival Committee.
The costs involved with putting on Gala Day and Festival Week as a whole are
continuing to rise. The council now require us to have tracking for vehicles
entering Houston Road Park which is very expensive, in addition, health and
safety rules now require the bunting to be put up by licensed operators, with
the Festival Committee currently being quoted £800 plus VAT to put it up
this year. So if it’s not up on Gala Day you’ll know why.
The Festival Committee rely on donations to keep the whole operation afl oat,
and this includes the Santa Sleigh at Christmas, so please give whatever
you can at the collection points, as all donations are gratefully received.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Langbank Church’s 150th Anniversary
Langbank Church was offi cially opened in May 1867, so it celebrates 150 years
this month. The building was originally the United Free Church, but became
Church of Scotland in 1932.
To mark this occasion, a weekend of celebrations is planned.
On the afternoon of Saturday, May 13th the church will be
open to the public, with organ recitals and entertainment
from the school choir. Everyone is welcome to come and look
round the church whilst listening to the music.
A plant sale will also take place that day in the church car
park from 10.30am – 12.30pm, and cream teas will be
served in the church hall.
The service on Sunday, May 14 at 11am will be conducted
by Rev Ann McCool, moderator of the Greenock and Paisley
Presbytery, and hopefully this will be well supported.
As always, visitors will be made very welcome.
Nearly 400 million children across the world
live in extreme poverty. To celebrate our 150th
anniversary, the church is going to sponsor
a child through Compassion UK, a Christian
charity which aims to help children by
providing education, food, healthcare and the
skills to break the cycle of poverty. A retiring
collection on the 14th will go towards this. If
anyone wishes to sponsor a child personally,
forms will be available in the church hall.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir

38 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Thank you for reading my articles over the last fi ve years and
for the many kind words sent to me, as I head into the fi nal
furlong I ask for your support by placing a “1” against my
name in the polling booth. In the last fi ve years I have enjoyed
being your councillor and working with fellow councillors in
and out of the debating chamber and would like to take this
opportunity to say farewell to the other two councillors in my
ward Councillor Maria Brown and Councillor Michael Holmes.
It has been a pleasure working with you and I wish you well as
you move on to other activities.
The April copy of The Advertiser had a very good article on
page 36 about the Council’s proposed Local Development Plan and would urge
you all to read it and make comment. Although this article lists proposals for
Bridge of Weir and if there is something that you like or dislike in Renfrewshire
please take the opportunity to let the Council know about it. Note the consultation
period has been extended to 5pm on 30th May 2017.
Momentum is building in Langbank to see an improvement in the broadband
speeds. Please get behind the community council in their push for faster speeds
or you can contact me. I will be driving for a much needed improvement in the
village.
A local resident in Bishopton brought to my attention a missing lamppost in Stuart
Road and I have reported a number of missing lampposts in all the villages. The
council say that they will replace these lampposts only when they have replaced
the old lanterns with the new LED ones but this is putting the cart before the
horse. The broken posts should be replaced fi rst as the old lanterns still provide
light and I have drawn up a motion for the next council meeting to try and change
this thinking.
On the 4th May, I would like to receive your vote and be your councillor for the
next fi ve years.
Surgery details:
• Bishopton Community Library - 1st Monday of every month (6.30pm)
(May Surgery cancelled due to bank holiday)
• Bridge of Weir Primary School - 2nd Monday of every month (6.30pm)
• Langbank Parish Church Hall - 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.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Singing for Wellbeing
A fun, no-pressure choir singing feel-good songs every Tuesday from 6pm - 7.15pm
and Fridays at 2pm - 3.15pm in the Bishopton Community Centre.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Gryffe Scottish Country Dance Club
For the past fi ve years, our club has
run a fundraising dance on behalf
of a well known charity. This year,
members of the club held a dance in
the Kilbarchan Guide Centre to raise
funds for St Vincent Hospice and the
McMillan Nurses.
Great music for a full programme
of both well known and some new,
interesting Scottish dances was
provided by the very popular Marian Anderson
Duo and around 60 dancers enjoyed a really
sociable and lively evening.
A terrifi c buffet supper was provided once again by
members of the class and a very successful raffl e
was run for us by Eleanor Lambert and Amber
Dickie. Many thanks to everyone who helped
out on the
night, contributed the many raffl e prizes
and of course to the dancers themselves. In
particular we would like to thank Morrisons
Supermarket and Gibb Stuart for their kind
donations of raffl e prizes.
At the end of the evening, the dance raised
£800 which was shared between the
chosen charities.
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
What’s happening at The Bridge in May?
Apart from the usual activities, - Bridge Classes, Film Showings, Hard of Hearing
Clinic, Citizens Advice Bureau and MSP/MP surgeries there is always the
opportunity to sit and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in pleasant surroundings.
Adding to the atmosphere are the Art Exhibitions which are regularly hosted.
During May, Rab Wilson, a well known local artist is exhibiting. Please pop in to
view his pictures.
Post Office and Shop - for all your Post Offi ce services, purchases
of stationery, greeting cards and pocket money toys - please
support your Community Centre where our volunteers and Post
Offi ce staff work hard to meet your needs. Our stock of greeting
cards has increased over the last few months with most occasions
catered for. We are pleased to announce the colourful selection of gifts by Emma
Ball Ltd is proving popular - please come in to see the display.
Allotments and Garden Society (AGS) The garden at the back of the Bridge is
maintained by the AGS who will be planting out (subject to weather) in May. If
you want ideas for your vegetables, fruit and herbs the Allotments and Gardens
Society is a good place to start.
We thank you for your custom and continuing support.
(Opening Hours: Mon – 9am to 5pm (PO closed 12 noon to 12.30pm); Tues &
Fri – 1pm to 5pm; Wed & Thu – 10am to 2pm; Sat – 9am to 1pm)
bishopton, langbank & bridge of weir
Bridge of Weir Community Council
The Community Council were extremely grateful to St Machar’s Ranfurly Church
for allowing us the use of their hall for the April meeting whilst the Cargill Hall is
being refurbished.
Reported at our last meeting by the Community Police Offi cers was a low volume
of crime in the village for the month of March, however this did include a serious
assault which was detected, and an incident where a resident was approached
by bogus workmen who were close to getting away with £2,500 of an elderly
residents savings.
We were informed by both Councillor Brown and Councillor MacLaren that the
30mph speed limit is to be extended beyond St Mary’s Church.
The Community Council were undecided as to Renfrewshire Forum of Community
Council’s request for our views on the proposal to introduce a 20mph speed limit.
Members agreed to await further information before making comment.
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on improving parking in
Scotland. Members will review the document and discuss it at our June meeting
prior to the closure of the consultation.
Developers have appealed Renfrewshire Council’s refusal to allow the proposed
residential development on land to North East of Strathgryffe Crescent, and
also the proposal for a combined retail and residential development on land at
Whitelint Gate.
The procedure for determining these two appeals has been agreed by the main
parties as follows: The issue of Land Supply will be considered at a public
hearing on Tuesday 18th July at a venue to be confi rmed. All other aspects on the
merits of the proposed developments will be considered by a desk top review of
all the case papers submitted during the original planning process. The Scottish
Government’s Department for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA) will
conduct the appeals.
Anyone wishing to participate in the hearing on the 18th July must register their
interest and provide a pre-hearing statement by the 20th June.
All relevant information can be accessed on line at the Scottish Government
Planning and Environmental Appeals Division website https://www.dpea.
scotland.gov.uk/ Paper copies of the documents are available to view at the
Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley.
Consultation on the Local Development Plan (LDP) Main Issues Report (MIR) has
been extended to the 30th May 2017. This consultation is important to the village
as it will determine which areas of land will be considered for future development
as well as possibly identifying the potential of mature landscaped / wooded
areas. This could be seen as a potential loss of green belt by the back door.
Details of the MIR and how to participate in the consultation can be found on
Renfrewshire Council’s web site http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/3070/
Preparation-of-the-next-Local-Development-Plan. Paper copies of the documents
are available to view at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton
Street, Paisley and at all Council Libraries.
The next meeting of the Community Council will take place on Tuesday 2nd May at
7pm in Bridge of Weir Primary School. Graeme McLatchie who is part of Paisley
2021 UK City of Culture Team will give a presentation on the update of the bid
and funding streams available to us.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
39
kilmacolm & quarriers
As we approach the Inverclyde Council Election I would be
honoured to again serve the people of Quarriers Village,
Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow. If not elected I will look back
on the past 10 years as the most rewarding in my career. It
is very satisfying to be able to make a difference no matter
how small.
The saga of Virgin Media continues. Councillor McCabe
and myself were informed at a meeting with VM that their
contractor had been dismissed due to the chaos caused in
the village. I suspect that VM management will now keep a
closer eye on the project. In terms of PR it is not quite as bad
as United Airlines but it has not been Virgin Media’s fi nest hour.
Another abandoned car has been removed from near the bottom of West Glen
Road. On street parking is at a premium here and well done the alert resident.
The OKFest 2017 at the Old Kirk was a success with many well attended and
entertaining events. I particularly enjoyed the concert by the Riverside Youth
Band and the social evening, both really well attended.
There have been disturbing acts of vandalism at the cemetery and Birkmyre
Park. I understand that the “boy racers” at the Park have been curtailed but and
the lighting of a fi re in the Duchal Nursery playground is totally unacceptable.
Wardens now have the Park on a 28 day watch and Police are patrolling regularly.
On a positive note, I attended a quite excellent Annual Music Concert at Port
Glasgow High School. The school has a marvellous reputation for music and this
performance of 43 varied acts was superb. The Master of Ceremonies was Adam
Docherty assisted by the irrepressible Miss Ballantyne conducting.
In my role on the Board of Strathclyde Passenger Transport I have been asked
by villagers on many occasions about buses in the evening and weekend from
Braehead and Glasgow. Extra services are now in operation (see the timetable).
I am indebted to McGills Buses for their contribution and SPT for the subsidy on
the Kilmacolm to Greenock link. The subsidised 530 is now absorbed into the
X7.
The AGM of the Civic Trust was graced with the fabulous presentation by Kitty Walker
on The Panopticon, the world’s oldest functioning music hall. Well worth looking up.
The Agricultural Show is the 13th may and the Lodge Plant Sale in Glebe Road is
the weekends of the 13th and 20th.
I can be contacted at david.wilson@inverclyde.gov.uk 01475 712727, 741969
and 07766 992294.
kilmacolm & quarriers
Kilmacolm Horticultural Society
The annual Coffee Morning for the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society will be held in
Kilmacolm New Community Centre on Saturday 20th May 10am 12noon. Please
come along, meet friends for coffee and chat. The plant stall which is supplied
by Parklea Nurseries will stock summer bedding, geraniums, fuchsias, tomato
plants, hanging baskets. Plus homebaking stall, and a Tombola. £3 entry.
kilmacolm & quarriers
Ardgowan Hospice
Bottle and Baking
Stall
Kilmacolm friends of
Ardgowan Hospice will
be holding their annual
Bottle and Baking Stall
at The Kilmacolm and
Port Glasgow Agricultural Society Show on
Saturday 13th May. All donations will be
greatly appreciated.
kilmacolm & quarriers
Voice of Hope
Every Tuesday Ladies Bible Study
10.30am coffee for 11am start
Every other “Friday Night Church”
7pm tea for 7.30pm start
Essential Bible Truth For An
Effective Christian Lifestyle
Both gatherings held in our home.
Everyone very welcome!
For further information please
contact Angus or Anita on: 01475
540700 or 07890 777710.
Baking can be handed in at the Kidston
Hall on Friday 12th May between 2.30 -
4.30pm. For donations of bottles please phone Aileen 01505874121 or Peter
01505872343, bottles will also be collected at the Cargill Centre.
kilmacolm & quarriers
kilmacolm & quarriers
Summer Duplicate Bridge
If you would like to play Bridge during the summer months
why not come along to the Kilmacolm Community Centre
on Monday evenings? Starting on 8th May at 7pm for
a 7.15 pm start
Come with a partner or come alone and hope to fi nd one
there.
Further information Tel: 87 2345.

40 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
kilmacolm & quarriers
kilmacolm & quarriers
Kilmacolm Civic Trust
– Inverclyde Local
Development Plan
On behalf of our members, the Trust submitted a number of
comments to Inverclyde Council at the fi rst stage of the next Local Development
Plan, covering the period from 2020 to 2024. Now the Council have published
a summary of the discussion points in their Main Issues Report, and we have
engaged with the Council and will make further responses in due course. As
you would expect, the key issues are housing and long-parking in Kilmacolm and
Quarriers Village!
You can read the Main Issues Report at https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/
planning-and-the-environment/planning-policy/development-planning/newldp?displaypref=large
You can have your say too, by downloading the comments
from the same page.
The deadline for responses is 31st May 2017 – this is your chance to help shape
the future of your villages.
kilmacolm & quarriers
Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural
Society 182nd Annual Show
Held at the Knapps, Kilmacolm on Saturday 13th May by
kind permission of Lord Maclay, Mrs Smith and Mr Robert
Baxter. Thank you to our sponsors, advertisers, volunteers
and supporters.
Classes for Cattle, Sheep, Clydesdale Horses, Young
Farmers, Light Horses, Dogs, Children’s Pets and Industrial Work. A great day
out for the whole family!
There’s plenty to see and do: watch or compete in one of our
many classes; browse the Trade Stands or Craft Tent; watch
the displays in the Main Ring; have lunch, a snack or
enjoy some drinks at the Bar. Most importantly, don’t
forget to watch out for Knappie, the monster of the loch,
on the Cross Country course!
Show Schedules - Schedules for Industrial Section are available
from all usual outlets in village and in schools and nurseries.
Paisley People Photography Exhibition
Friday 12th May at 1pm to Sunday 11th June, 2017 at 3pm
15 Bridge Street, Linwood, Paisley, PA3 3DB
An open exhibition of the results of a pop up studio which the Renfrewshire
Disability Arts Forum ran in Paisley town centre Autumn during Doors Open
Day 2016. Produced following a series of 12 weekly workshops facilitated
by Street Level Photoworks. The photographs feature members of the
public and members of Disability Resource Centre.
The fi nal photos were printed by Street Level Photoworks.
www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/paisley-people-photography-exhibition
Fèis Phàislig: Family Ceilidh
Friday 12th May, 2017 from 7pm to 11.30pm
6 School Wynd, Paisley, PA1 2DB
Fèis Phàislig (Gaelic for Paisley Festival) is an arts organisation that provides
traditional music experiences for young people across Renfrewshire. Our
fundraising ceilidh will be a fantastic night of music and dance, with all
proceeds going towards further opportunities for young people across
Renfrewshire.
www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/feis-phaislig-family-ceilidh
Create and Play the Digital Way
Friday 5th May, 2017 from 1pm to 5pm
Paisley YMCA, 39 High Street, Paisley, PA1 2AF
Open door activity where we invite people to join in and try an open
workshop, a ‘come and try’ approach and learn to code, build a car with
a micro-controller or take part in a public demonstration event of Quiver
augmented reality or experience the world with Google Expeditions. These
workshops and demonstrations are to shine a spotlight on the wide range
of digitally based, creative cultural activity for new or potential volunteers
can learn and develop that will further expand Paisley YMCA’s capacity to
address digital literacies within young people across Renfrewshire.
Paisley YMCA rely on volunteers to deliver our four code clubs across
Renfrewshire where young people lean computer programming or through
our digital culture activity in community centres and churches where they
learn electronic music making activities and 3D printing thus dispelling
the notion that “I’m not creative because I can't play music or sculpt” as
volunteers show participants how to be creative with programming video
games, mobile phone app in our code clubs and make music and 360
fi lms in our digital culture sessions. So come and have a try and surprise
yourself its fun, educational and easy to learn!
www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/create-and-play-the-digital-way
kilmacolm & quarriers
Girlguiding in Kilmacolm
We are delighted that as we celebrate 100
years of GirlGuiding in Kilmacolm we have been
nominated as one of the Co op local community
groups and will benefi t from 1% of sales of all
members that choose us as their nominated
charity. It will be great to get support from all
of the village so that we can continue this great
community group for another 100 years!!
If you are a member of the Co-op please go to the Co-op website
to choose Kilmacolm Guides. If you aren’t a member of the
Co-op join up now!!! Go to: https://membership.coop.co.uk/
causes/669
We are looking forward to celebrating our 100 years with a garden
party on 21st May at the Guide Hut, if you have any connections
with Kilmacolm Guides over the years and in particular have any photos or stories
from the past please get in touch – kilmacolmguides100@gmail.com
kilmacolm & quarriers
Last month I was contacted about anti social behaviour by
a number of youngsters in Birkmyre Park. I believe that
traditionally young people have hung about the park with
their friends. But sadly there had been disturbances. I
contacted the police, council offi cials and the community
wardens service. Sadly over past months there have been
large groups of young people across Inverclyde some who
have been causing trouble in a number of areas. Thankfully,
the vast majority of young people are well behaved and take
part in many positive pursuits. It is so sad when a minority let
themselves, their parents and communities down.
The new cruise ship season starts in Inverclyde this month. Last year more than
50 ships berthed at the Ocean Terminal in Greenock bringing over 100,000
passengers and crew to our district. This season four cruises will start and fi nish
in Greenock. Trying to encourage more companies to begin/end their cruises
in Greenock is something I had spoken to the Managing Director at the Ocean
Terminal about several years ago. At the moment there are many people from
Scotland and the north of England who travel to Southampton to start their
cruises from a UK port. I am sure given the chance they would prefer to start
and end their cruise from nearer to home. The berthing area at the Terminal
will be extended in the next couple of years which will allow twice as many ships
and passengers to come to Inverclyde. If more cruises began and fi nished in
Inverclyde what a boost it would give to our district and local economy from
hotels, to restaurants, to shops etc.
After 10 years as one of your councillors for Ward 1 the Local Government
Boundary Commission changed the ward boundaries in Inverclyde. As I now live
in Ward 2 I have decided to seek re-election as a councillor in that ward. I would
like to thank everyone in Kilmacolm, Quarrier’s Village and Ward 1 who have
given me support over the last ten years. It has been a great privilege to be one
of your councillors and over that time I have got to know so many people in the
ward. Thank you.
Finally, I would like to thank Rona and her staff at the Advertizer for allowing me
to write a column in their splendid magazine every month.
Any constituent requiring my assistance until the 3rd May can contact me at my offi ce
on 01475 712727, my mobile number 07747 765 839, by emailing me at jim.macleod@
inverclyde.gov.uk or writing to me at Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Greenock, PA15
1LY

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
41
kilmacolm & quarriers
Kilmacolm Old Kirk
Dates for your diary
Sunday 7th May – Night Kirk 6pm
Thursday 11th May – Sòlas bereavement group meets in the Kidston Hall from
6.30pm to 8.30pm.
Saturday 20th – Friday 26th – Church of Scotland Assembly
Outlook
Don’t forget our regular Outlook group which reaches out to the
whole community in fellowship. The format is the same for
most weeks – invited speakers offering topics of interest,
community issues for discussion, shared activities, music,
fi lms, etc. Dates for your diary. Afternoon tea gives us all
the chance to enjoy time with friends and to make new
friends. The team provide a wonderful variety of home
baking. A voluntary donation is collected, to be sent to the
OUTLOOK monthly nominated charity.
May programme is:
Thursday 4th May – Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance: four years old and
growing.
Wednesday 17th May – Outing
Outing to Glenarm at Rhu with afternoon tea in Helensburgh. Coach, entry,
and tea: £15. 1pm – 5.30pm
Thursday 18th May – The return of the Clydeside Singers: singalong with popular
tunes, plus an update from the Mary’s Meals charity.
NEXT MONTH
Wednesday 21st June – Summer outing to Crarae Gardens, with high tea in
Inverary in friendship with the Kilmacolm Horticultural Society. Coach, entry,
high tea: £35. 9am – 6.30pm
howwood & elderslie
Elderslie Community Council
Elderslie Community Council has organised for a
community notice board to be erected. They told The
Advertizer, “We would like to give a special thanks to Calling all
Gavin and the guys from Elderslie Butchers and the Community
Coffee Shop for letting us put it up on their wall. Now Groups -
all we need are ideas for what to put in there. Please
HELP FILL THIS
put out the word to people connected to community
SPACE!
groups like girls/boys brigade, the Kirk, scouts etc for
them to contribute?”
Find us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eldersliecommunitycouncil/
howwood & elderslie
Bowfield 10K
Join St Vincent’s Hospice on June
11th for the Annual Bowfield 10K.
Join us at The Bowfi eld as they host
their fi fth annual 10K race in aid of
St Vincent’s Hospice and in memory
of Grace Kissell.
Walkers and runners are welcome
to tackle our challenging and scenic
course. Walkers start at 10am and
runners at 11am.
There is a £10 registration fee, and
all sponsorship goes to St Vincent’s
Hospice.
For more information, contact
members@bowfi eldhotel.co.uk
If you would like to register for this
event, please visit: www.svh.co.uk/
forms/form.php?formID=33
See more at: www.stvincentshospice.
co.uk/items/SVH-Events/bowfield-
10k
howwood & 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.
howwood & elderslie
Howwood
Woodlands &
Wildlife
Help is needed to clear the Rhombus
Garden of weeds (the garden just
opposite The Boarding House). If you
have any spare time at all and would
be willing to help with the clearance
and development of this area, we would
be most grateful. Please contact Bill
David on 07802 57590 or email at bill@
billdavid.co.uk or contact any member of
HWW who will be able to give you more
information – thank you!
howwood & elderslie

42 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
houston, crosslee & brookfield
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Brookfield Country
Dancing club
Thursday evenings from 7.30pm - 9.30pm
run by Aileen Craig (01505 322684). New
members are most welcome and as an
introduction, the fi rst class is free.
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Houston Litter Crew
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Houston &
Crosslee
On 10th May we hold our “Tea and
Chat” in aid of Macmillan Cancer
Care.
All our meetings are held in The
Compass Centre, South Street,
Houston at 7.30pm. Come along and
join us, you will be made very welcome.
For further information please contact,
Arlene MacKay on 07932 459994.
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Crafty Friends
1st and 3rd Thursdays in the
month at 7.30pm in the Carrick
Centre, Houston. No craft
experience necessary. Tel: Lorna
Cairns 612844 or Shirley White
610721.
Renfrewshire Provost Recognises our own Local Hero
Our very own Jake Fulton who created the Houston Litter
Crew has received the Renfrewshire Lord Provost Award
for Community Volunteer of the Year. The award was
presented on 3rd March at a glittering award ceremony
in the Normandy Hotel hosted by Gina Mckie. The
event celebrated the achievements of local community
members who go above and beyond the call of duty to make
Renfrewshire a better place.
Over 80 nominations were
received across fi ve categories.
Jake’s community approach has transformed Houston’s environment and makes
Houston a more enjoyable and beautiful place, both for our residents and visitors.
He has inspired a real sense of community pride, cohesion and spirit. Well done
and thank you Jake!
Houston Litter Crew, which
celebrated its fi rst birthday
in March 2017, continues to
go from strength to strength.
We have a wide range of
volunteers of all ages including
many young people who are
participating in the Boys
Brigade Queens Badge and
Saltire Awards. We also
continue to work in partnership
with Gryffe High School who
litter pick daily after each lunch time. In our fi rst year we
have collected over 1,000 bags of litter.
Houston Litter Crew meets every Sunday at 10am in the
Co-op car park and fi nishes at 11.45am. If you fancy
getting involved and lending a hand whether regularly
or only a couple of times a year, come along and join
us – you will be made most welcome. All equipment is
supplied i.e. Litter pickers, bags, tabards and gloves –
just bring along your enthusiasm!
You can follow Houston Litter Crew on Houston Community
Council Facebook page.
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Art Club
Feeling arty? Want to express your
creative side? Then get yourself down
to the Art Club! Welcome to all ages
and abilities. Runs on Thursdays
12noon - 3pm.
Contact Margaret Hosick on 01505
323050 for more info!
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Hollywood Comes To Houston
Kirk Carnival Saturday 13th May
This year the Carnival Queen is Amy Anthony
Attendants: Katie Allison, Keira McGarvey
Do you want to be a HOLLYWOOD STAR for a day,
now is your chance. Live your fantasy and become a Hollywood
actor, a cartoon character or anyone or anything associated with Hollywood. Let
this be an opportunity to turn Houston into a fi lm makers paradise. Glitz and
glamour let’s have it.
This is an immensely successful event but in order to achieve this there is a
tremendous amount of hard work involved by organisers, contributors.
It all kicks off at 12 noon outside the Kirk with the judging of the HOLLYWOOD
procession. Around 12.15pm the Houston Boys and Girls Brigade Pipe Band will
lead the party followed by the Queen-in-Waiting, Amy Anthony and her attendants
Katie Allison and Keira McGarvey who will be transported in style. They, along
with the rest of the parade, will head off to the front of the West Hall in Main
Street where the art competition and fancy dress winners will be announced.
Then we have the big moment when the Carnival Queen is crowned and the 2017
Kirk Carnival commences. There are so many stalls and games to enjoy along
with a huge variety of tasty food which will certainly lure you in.........so don’t have
your lunch before you come.
Before we pack up at the end of the day, the prizes winners for the various
competitions from the programme will be announced. The prizes in the lucky
draw competition are particularly good this year, so if you haven’t fi lled in your
programme entry or you want to increase your chances of winning, then additional
entries can be purchased from a dedicated stall – Good luck!
To all helping hands and all who take part, now is the time those with green
fi ngers are thinking about sowing seeds and getting the fl owers and shrubs ready
for the plant stall.
To all who are de-cluttering and getting rid of unwanted items of ‘bric a brac’,
etc. Please remember the white elephant stall. If you need assistance getting
items to the church hall please contact Kathryn McCartney (613741) or Mary
Reid (613770) who will gladly help. Unfortunately we cannot accept electrical
goods or large items of furniture. Don’t forget donations of toiletries, bottles,
jewellery, home baking and toys. All will be received gratefully.
All proceeds will go to the Killellan Halls Fund.
houston, crosslee & brookfield
ONLY DAYS
TO GO
Recently my husband and I attended a Fairtrade Coffee and
Craft morning at Houston and Killellan Kirk. It was fantastic
to see the enthusiasm of the local Fairtrade Group and the
range of Fairtrade products on sale, I have been a staunch
supporter of the Fairtrade movement for many years. All the
churches in Scotland deserve credit for their sterling work
over the decades to make Fairtrade the mainstream concern
that it now rightly is, as decades ago it was the wider Christian
community which kept the Fairtrade fl ame burning through
less sympathetic times.
At the last Brookfi eld Community Council I was sorry to be
with my civic mentor and party colleague, Cllr Allan Noon, for
one of his last civic engagements. However, it was an occasion for remembering
his outstanding service to the people of Houston, Brookfi eld, and Crosslee, over
nearly two decades as an Elected Member. The Community Council members
marked his departure by presenting him with a card and gifts.
Two issues that I have taken up at the request of the Brookfi eld Community
Council are the excessive potholes in Sandholes Road, and to continue to push
for an early review of the new LED lighting to get it right for all communities.
Whilst some areas are well lit, the numerous dark spots need to be addressed in
the interests of safety.
My advice surgery in Linwood is on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month, at 6pm, in
Linwood High School. 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.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
43
houston, crosslee & brookfield
H.O.S.T. The Carrick Centre, Houston
(Houston Old School Trust)
Monday to Friday, Woodlands Out of
School 01505 615438
MONDAY
Yoga (Weekly) 1pm Mary Laidlaw
01505 229112
Diaporama 8TH 7.30pm
Galaxy 5pm – 9pm
TUESDAY
Paint Pot Tots (Weekly) 10am
Dawn Campbell 07789 262 350
Musical Theatre (Weekly) 4pm - 5pm
Yoga (Weekly) 7pm M/s Lawson
01505 613690
Galaxy 4pm – 8.30pm
WEDNESDAY
Big Kids Little Learners 10am – 11am
Janine Neil 07870 697010
Councillors Surgeries 17TH 6.30pm
Gryffe Melody Makers 10TH & 24TH
7pm
Camera Club (3R D, 10TH) 7.30pm
Community Council 17TH 7.30pm
THURSDAY
Gryffe Quilting Group (4TH, 11TH, 18TH,
25TH) 1.15 - 3.15pm (18TH - 10am)
Primary Colours (Weekly) 3.30pm
Dawn Campbell 07789 262 350
Crafty Friends 4th, 18TH 7.30pm
Folk Club (weekly) 8pm iaintdawson@
gmail.com 07786 078952
BurleX Fitness (Weekly) 9.15 -
10.15am. Kelly, 07944 815298
Galaxy 3.30pm – 7.30pm
FRIDAY
Yoga (Weekly) 10.30am M/s Lawson
01505 613690
Big Kids Little Learners 1pm – 2pm
Janine Neil 07870 697010
Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) 3.30pm -
7pm
MP Surgery 12TH 12.30pm – 1.30pm
SATURDAY
Galaxy Dancing (Weekly) 9.30am -
5pm
Kirk Carnival 13TH 12.15pm
SUNDAY
Baptist Church (Weekly) 11am and
6pm
Booking enquiries to :
Ian Simpson, 01505 612203
Sandy Young 01505 331488
Bill Haddow 01505 690693
hostbooking@outlook.com or The
Coffee Shop
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Houston and Killellan Agricultural Show
This year the Annual Show will be held on Saturday 3rd June. Schedules for the
Craft and Baking section are available from the Paper Shop and the Post Offi ce in
the village or by e-mail: issistuart@fsmail.net
Urgent Appeal for May
from the Co-op
The CO-OP stores in – Houston, Bridge of Weir,
Kilbarchan and Bishopton - now have Renfrewshire
Food Bank donation bins and for the month of May we
‘urgently need’ –
* Tinned potatoes * Tinned Tomatoes
* Tinned Fruit * UHT milk
* Coffee (small) * Small cartons of juice for
packed lunches
* Rice * Super noodles/Pasta ‘n’ sauce
* Soap/body wash * Toothpaste
* Deodorant * Men’s shave gel/foam
Thanks to you all for your kindness... X
houston, crosslee & brookfield
Brookfield News
Award
Brookfi eld resident, Robert Ostrycharz, has been awarded the Knight’s Cross
of Merit of the Republic of Poland for services over many years to the Polish
community in Scotland. The Polish Ambassador to Britain presented him with the
award during a visit to Scotland at the end of March.
An open letter to Brookfield residents from a bowler….
I am not a Brookfi eld resident. What I am is one of those very fortunate folk who
can look forward again to many happy hours this summer, enjoying the delights
of your lovely bowling green and its facilities.
Until being invited to try bowling at Brookfi eld as a beginner a few years ago, I had
no idea how much pleasure this would give me year after year. The friendship,
the fun - and even the bowling itself - are things I now can’t quite get enough of.
Since I can’t be bothered practising I’m never going to be a great player but, like
most of us, I get along reasonably well and sincerely believe that it’s much more
about the people than any success that may come along in the game ... and we
have great people.
Passing by your village thousands of times as resident of 40-odd years in Bridge
of Weir, I had been in the dark of the existence of the bowling green and the Club.
Since being introduced and becoming a member, I have often wondered how
many of the Brookfi eld folk have given thought to the value of this great asset in
their village and why there have been so few village members when, at the same
time, the quality of the facility has been recognised so widely around the area?
This Club is a priceless asset of inestimable potential benefi t to your village, and
a strong local membership would contribute greatly to the viability and prosperity
of the Club.
Many bowling clubs are facing hard times these days and many have lost the
struggle to survive. The Brookfi eld Club, owing to the unchanging quality of its
management and its members, continues to face and cope with the various
challenges - social, demographic and economic - that exist today. Like many
another institution, however, we confront the problem of an ageing population
and the need to recruit has become a major concern.
For well over a century the Brookfi eld Bowling Club has held a reputation for the
quality of its facilities and the second-to-none friendliness of the members. We
desire passionately to continue to offer friendly outdoor recreation to present and
future generations and would therefore, as a new season begins, ask you all to
consider an open invitation to drop in at any time to see what we do and how we
do it. Thereafter, we can offer unrestricted fi rst year membership at £45 (£45!!!),
with unlimited play, free coaching and hire of bowls. Why not arrange a wee trial,
privately and without obligation, by calling Bill on 612769? Or just pop along and
introduce yourself.
We are Brookfi eld’s Bowling Club and we desire greatly the participation of many
more Brookfi eld residents in order to secure this fi ne facility’s future for your
village and the district. Please give it a thought. Thank you. Bill Wilson
houston, crosslee & brookfield

44 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Fantastic Lochwinnoch
Arts Festival 2017
This year’s festival was bigger than usual to support
the Renfrewshire Paisley bid for City of culture 2021.
There was something for everyone! One of the different
features of this year was ‘A Buddy Good
Laugh’ comedy night in conjunction with
Paisley Arts Centre this was a great success,
also the 9 come and try events to encourage
people to have a go at art and it was very
popular.
There were so many volunteers and helpers
who made the events run smoothly a BIG
thank you to all of you!! (The Festival would
not happen without you).
There was over £1,600 raised at events
for charity including St Vincent’s Hospice,
RNLI, The Haven, Johnstone High Students,
The Red Cross, Soldiers Off the Streets,
East Africa Famine Appeal and Alzheimer’s
Scotland.
Tannahill Poetry Competition
Thursday night at the Lochwinnoch Arts
Festival was an exciting time for poets and
lovers of poetry. The Read Raw Tannahill
Poetry Competition is a new event and with
a prize fund of £2,700 it is a major addition
to the poetry calender. Sally Evans, Editor
of Poetry Scotland, judged the entries which
came from as far afi eld as India, Canada
and New Zealand.
The night opened with music from local duo
Witches Brew and a reading by Sally. Then
came the main event with the presentations
to the winners.
Sally explained that ‘to win a big competition
– and this was a big competition – it’s not
just that a poem must do nothing wrong,
but it must also do a great deal that is right.
Judges have often said a winning poem is
one that stays with you, and all the winners
did.’ And in her comments on the Scots
Language poems she added that the poem
shouldn’t be hampered by its language.
Rather it should gain from its language.
The winners were
FULL COMPETITION:
First Prize Margaret Tait’s Portrait of
Ga, by Gerda Stevenson.
Second Prize Stick, by Katie Hale,
Third Prize Lewy Bodies by Kathleen
Jones
Commended Washi, by Judith Taylor
How the Partner of a dead
Sculptor still perceives her
new work, by C M Buckland.
SCOTS COMPETITION:
First Prize For Ma Faither, by Brian
Holton.
Second Prize Scrievin her Great-Grunnie
by Sheila Templeton.
The Read Raw Ltd directors, Mo Blake, Ian
Hunter, Wullie Purcell and George Colkitto
were delighted that all fi ve major winners
had travelled to Lochwinnoch to receive
their prize, to read their winning poem and
also read a selection of their other work.
The winning poems and a full report by Sally
Evans can be found on www.readrawltd.
co.uk
(Thanks to Keven Moulds, Di Finn and
Zul Bhatia for photography)
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Recently I was the only Ward Councillor to attend a Scottish
Department of Environment and Planning Appeals predetermination
Hearing in Erskine, which had on its agenda
consideration of how the Branscroft Planning Appeal is to be
dealt with. Kilbarchan Community Council members were
also in attendance. Of great concern was the matter of the
Scottish Government Reporter seeking to consider not only
the Branscroft appeal, but another four local appeals from
other parts of Renfrewshire at the same time.
I am very concerned that the various housing developers are
being allowed to use a single lawyer to present their case.
I did extract an important concession from the Scottish Reporter in that she
encouraged local communities to also pull their resources to articulate their
case. Therefore I encourage all local community activists to collaborate and
share information to try and protect the Greenbelt.
Housing developers are always telling villages like Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch, and
Howwood there is a desperate shortage. Yet, offi cial Renfrewshire Council fi gures
for this year state that there is a private sector shortfall of only 230 houses across
Renfrewshire. I am all for having a debate on housing land supply so long as it is
a discussion based on the facts.
My advice surgery in Kilbarchan is on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Steeple Hall
at 7.45pm, and my advice surgery in Lochwinnoch is on the 4th Wednesday of the month in
the McKillop at 7.30pm, excluding July. 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.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Masonic Meeting
Notice
Lodge Captain Speirs Houston
no.791 Masonic Temple, New Street,
Kilbarchan - meetings start 7.30pm
May 12th - MM Degree (special
meeting)
Visiting brethren welcome
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan Parish
Church Tots’ Club
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Calder Church Summer Fayre
The club takes place on Monday
mornings from 9.15am - 11.30am in
the hall, where there is a large variety
of toys and a bouncy castle for the tots
- from birth - 3 years - and coffee and
friendly chat for the accompanying
adults, cost £1 for each adult.
On Saturday 20th May from 10am - 12noon in The McKillop Hall,
Lochwinnoch
Stalls include Home Baking, Plants & Garden, Jewellery, Arts & Crafts, Lucky Dip
and lots more. Adults £2, Children FREE includes Tea/Coffee. All welcome.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan Parish Church in May
Services continue at 11am each Sunday throughout May, conducted by Rev.
Stephen Smith.
Sunday School and the crèche continue to meet in the large hall from 10.45am
each week and refreshments will be served after the service as usual.
ALL WELCOME TO ANY or ALL OF THESE SERVICES. For further information
about the church and the organisations, please visit Kilbarchan Kirk online: www.
kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk
Kilbarchan Parish Church
Midweek Fellowship
continues from 10.30am
for coffee, followed by a
short service of worship, on
Wednesdays in the small
hall.
Kilbarchan Parish Church
Plant Sale and Pancake
Morning will take place on
Saturday 20th May from
10am - 12 noon in the halls,
off Steeple Square. Entrance
is £2:50, children £1 and this
includes coffee with freshlymade
pancakes, cream and
jam. To order plants, which
are of very good quality from
a nursery in Ayrshire, please
phone 704502. As well as
pre-ordered plants, there will
be a large variety for sale.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
45
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Lochwinnoch
Community Garden
Update
WORK PARTIES IN COMMUNITY
GARDEN Spring 2017
28th May 1pm Collecting plants for stall at community garden 1pm
CALL FOR PLANTS FOR GALA DAY
Plant stall at Gala on 10th June can you bring them to the Community garden on
the 28th May at 1pm.
PLANTING CONTAINERS IN VILLAGE
SATURDAY 3rd JUNE
As with last year we are calling out for
volunteers to help plant out the many
containers we have in and around
the village. Please meet outside the
McKillop at 1pm on Saturday 3th June
to lend a hand.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan
During the month of May, the group
has 3 meetings, the fi rst is Gardiners’
Question Time with a speaker from
bridge of Weir Horticultural Society,
then we have a discussion about the
way topical events are represented
in 2 different newspapers, followed
by a review of the book about life on
St Kilda “Island of Wings” by Karen
Altenburg. The group would welcome
new members, we meet on Wednesday
evenings in each other’s homes and
enjoy speakers and discussions on
a wide variety of topics. If you are
interested in fi nding out more, please
phone 703786 or see the website:
www.nwr.org.uk.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan Fairtrade
Group
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Summer Concert
14th May, 7.30pm, at Holy Trinity and
St Barnabas Church, Paisley.
Conductor: Edwin Hillier.
Songs of Farewell - Music by Parry,
Stanford and Vaughn Williams, plus a
selection from the Kings Singers.
Tickets - £8.50/£5 (under 18s) -
available from choir members or on
the door.
We recently held a curry night in Bobbins.
Thirty friends and guests enjoyed
a congenial evening in familiar and
comfortable surroundings. Photo shows
the Bobbins team, Hector and Graham
Batin, chairperson of the group. If you are
interested in helping to promote Fairtrade and would like to join the committee
the next meeting is on Tuesday 9th May at 7.30 pm in the Ladies Room at the
Steeple.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan’s famous
Celebrations
Kilbarchan’s famous Lilias Day celebrations are all set for Saturday 3rd June!
Taking place in the conservation village of Kilbarchan, the Lilias Day celebrations
date back to the 1700s when the village was a centre of the weaving trade in
Renfrewshire. Today it is fi rmly established as a key event in the Renfrewshire
events calendar and a great day out for all the family. A historic parade still leads
the celebrations and is followed through the village by decorated fl oats, pipe
and brass bands and involvement from the community and organisations in and
around the area. The parade fi nishes in Kilbarchan Park where a host of stalls,
activities and events take place to raise thousands of pounds for good causes.
Local residents and businesses will dress the outside of their premises and a prize
is given for the best decorated house and business as well as for best decorated
fl oat. The parade leaves the bottom of the village at 1pm and along the way the
statue of Kilbarchan’s famous piper, “Habbie Simpson” on the steeple in the
village square is brought to life and joins the parade.
If you haven’t been to Lilias Day before, make this the year to come along and join
the fun. For more details of the full programme go to the Outdoors section.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
A decision on the appeal in regard to the proposed housing
development at Branscroft Kilbarchan is still awaited. A
hearing on the 30th March, simply arranged a further
meeting on the 18th July, but this will only address the issue
of housing land supply and policy. This delay is unacceptable
and costly. The Scottish Government continues to ignore the
views of Kilbarchan folk who wish to protect the green belt
and should reject the appeal without further delay.
Equally unacceptable, is the proposal by Stagecoach that
from June, it will withdraw its x37 bus service from Ardrossan
to Glasgow which currently serves both Lochwinnoch and
Howwood, and is a necessary service for village commuters
who rely on the service. I will continue to lobby Stagecoach to reverse its
decision.
This is my last piece in the Advertizer before the council elections, and I hope
that my contributions have been informative. On the 4th May, the people of
Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch and Howwood will elect 4 Councillors to represent them
in the new ward 9, which also includes Johnstone North. This election should be
about local services and who is best to provide them.
Whoever is elected, I think that it is important that we take Renfrewshire forward
and protect what is important to village life. Over the last fi ve years I have
worked hard to do this with Renfrewshire Council and it’s partners, whether it
be protection of the green belt, improvements to our infrastructure, such as the
replacement of Lochwinnoch Bridge and the provision of disabled access at
Milliken Park Station, or securing fi nancial support to our village music and arts
organisations.
If I am re elected, I will continue to stand up for the people of the new ward.
There will be challenges such as measures to combat the increasingly important
traffi c management issues in our villages, continued improvements of our roads
and pavements, the protection of local bus and train services, and of course the
green belt.
The future is for our children and young people, and the pledge as part of a new
administration to build a new Johnstone High School, will help forge and protect
that future.
I hope that over the last fi ve years that I have done my best, and if given the
opportunity after the 4th May will continue to do so.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Get Weaving!
Although seeing the 200 years old
hand loom in action is the high
spot of any visit to the Cottage
there is a chance to try some
weaving on the modern loom
which shares the loom shop.
Experienced folk will explain the
intricacies and help you through
the processes: come and give it
a try! The Cottage is open 1pm -
5pm every day except Wednesday and Thursday.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch
Kilbarchan Parish Church
Messy Church
Our Messy Church continues in our halls on
Saturday 20th May from 4pm – 6pm. All children,
accompanied by an adult, will be made most
welcome. So come along and join us for a couple
of hours of fun. We end by sitting down to eat together and enjoying the fellowship
of other families. This will be our fi nal Messy Church for this session and we will
resume after the summer holidays in September.
kilbarchan & lochwinnoch

46 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
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
∂∫∞€Ł@)(
info@advertizer.co.uk
l𧥇þÐœ
ÐœðŁ
lð§¥
We can also put updates on our website
& Facebook. There is no charge for this service!
Pet Blog
by PetVets
The pitter patter
of tiny paws can
be heard across
Glasgow as the city
welcomes four lifechanging
puppies
Obesity in Pets
Unfortunately obesity is an increasing
problem we see in pets which has
significant health implications. It occurs when the energy intake is
greater than the energy expenditure.
Factors contributing to weight gain, include overfeeding, feeding
an inappropriate diet eg. Feeding human foods or excessive treats,
and insufficient exercise. Neutering can also be a factor in weight
gain as animals that have been neutered require around 30% less
calories.
Some health problems have a higher incidence in obese animals including;
• Respiratory problems: Tracheal collapse, laryngeal paralysis, chronic bronchitis
and feline asthma.
• Orthopaedic problems: Arthritis, cruciate disease and certain fracture types.
• Dermatology: Inability to groom, skin fold dermatitis, and general poor coat
quality.
• Metabolic disease: Diabetes mellitus
• Urinary problems: Feline lower urinary tract disease (recurrent cystitis in cats)
and incontinence in female dogs.
Obesity can also significantly increase the risks involved with general anaesthetics
and surgical procedures.
For an animal to lose weight it is necessary to increase the energy expenditure and
decrease the energy intake.
Canine Partners’ Glasgow puppy training group’s
newest recruits have arrived – and they’re following in
the paw prints of their mum.
The group which trains assistance dogs for physically
disabled people has welcomed its newest recruits –
four-month-old Tamia and Tessa and three-month-old
siblings Ursa and Urban.
It comes just five years after Ursa and Urban’s mum
Helena, a Labrador cross golden retriever, was trained
by the charity’s West Scotland team, based in Paisley.
Helena graduated to become one of Canine Partners’
breeding hounds, becoming a mother to assistance
dogs of the future.
Now the charity is calling for more volunteers, known
as puppy parents, which look after trainee assistance
dogs like its four new arrivals in their homes for around
a year and help with basic training, socialisation and
obedience.
Ursa’s puppy parent Marjorie Johnston has been a
puppy parent for four years.
The 60-year-old gran-of-two from Kilmarnock, said: “I
had been involved in the charity, but then I had a bit
of time on my hands so decided to become a puppy
parent.
“People say it must be hard giving the puppy up but you have
to think about what they end up doing. When you see an
active partnership it makes it all worthwhile.
“The Paisley group is friendly and a good community. We
sometimes meet up outside our puppy training classes for a
coffee together.
“It’s very social and it’s great to see the puppies’ progress.
It’s fun taking them around the shops and introducing them
to new things and places.
“The group thinks it’s nice that two of Helena’s puppies have
come back. I wasn’t with Canine Partners when she was
here but other people remember her because she was full of
mischief – just like our Ursa.”
People can meet Tamia, Tessa, Ursa and Urban and
find out more about being a puppy parent at Canine
Partners’ special Big Glasgow Bluebell Walk and Fun
Day.
The walk will start at Pollokshaw Burgh Hall in Glasgow
from 12-4pm on May 7 and take participants through
Pollok Country Park.
The event will feature a raffle and tombola and more
than 20 craft stalls selling quality handmade goodies.
There will also be a demonstration of some of the skills
the charity’s assistance dogs learn which help boost
disabled people’s independence and confidence.
The dogs can open doors, pick up and fetch items, help
someone dress and undress and even load a washing
machine. They also learn to get help in an emergency.
For more information call Dale Gormley on 0845 4811915 or
visit caninepartners.org.uk/bigbluebellwalks.
Increasing the energy expenditure is achieved by increasing
exercise.
In dogs: • Increasing number and/or length of walks
• Hydrotherapy if arthritis/weight/other issues restrict walks
• Fetch and retrieving games
• Off lead exercise
In cats: • Increasing play time • Using activity balls and feed toys
• Feeding at a height (cat has
to jump/climb to reach food)
• Hiding food
Decreasing energy intake - This is
achieved by reducing the number of
calories the animal is consuming. This
means sticking to a recommended diet.
There are a number of veterinary
recommended prescription foods
available aimed at weight loss in cats and
dogs which have a lower calorie content
than most commercial pet foods. This
means that feeding the recommended
amount of one of these diets provides
less calories without restricting other
essential nutrients within the diet.
If you think your pet is overweight contact
Petvets for a free weight check and advice.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
47 47
47
Re-homing Pets
Can you offer a home to any of our featured pets?
Dana & Chris - 1 1/2 year old
female and male cats
Dana came into care of the
branch with her brother Chris
due to no fault of their own and
are looking for a “forever” home
together.
They are very shy,
timid cats who will
Dana
take a wee bit of
time to get used to our new family, though, given
time, love & patience will come out of our shells.
They get on with other cats and are looking for a
family that have a safe outdoor home well away
from busy road & no children.
Cardyke Farm, Langmuirhead Road, Auchinloch,
Glasgow G66 5LD - Telephone 0141 779 3341
Chris
Donatello - male
Donatello
terrapin
Terrapins are a big commitment as they can live
for over 30 years and this means they should
never be taken on lightly. They require regular
cleaning and tank maintenance, heat, light and
feeding. Donatello would love an experienced
terrapin owner to come forward and offer him a
loving home.
Wilson - 8-13 months male rabbit
Wilson is a nice boy who arrived in our care
through no fault of his own and is now looking for
his forever home. He is looking for a new secure
home with plenty of space to play and explore. He
has a cheeky wee face and a personality to match,
he would make a great new addition to a family
home.
Wilson
To contact the centre about any animals, please call 03000 999 999 or visit
www.scottishspca.org/rehoming
Benji
Benji - a 8+ year old male
crossbreed
Benji is a handsome chap who
loves his exercise. He loves to be
on the go learning new things.
He loves to play with toys especially a squeaky
toy! Benji needs an adult only home and his own
secure garden to play in & get some off lead time.
Someone who has owned dogs like him recently
would benefit him and help him settle. He needs a
calm, quiet home with quiet areas to walk in with
someone who has the time to spend helping settle and come out his shell. It may
take him some time to settle and get used to his new home. Benji needs several
meets at the centre to build a relationship & go through body language before
going to his new home.
Tess - a 8+ year old female border collie
Tess is a gorgeous girl who just loves human
company. She is typical of her breed and loves to
please you. She likes her exercise and learning
new things.Tess can live with children who are 8
years old or over and needs her own secure garden
to practice her training in. Tess needs help with all
her basic training so needs a home who are around
all day to help her settle. A home who have owned
collie types before who live in a calm, quiet house
hold would help her come out her shell.
Tess
Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre, 315 Hamilton Road, Uddingston, Glasgow, G71
7SL. Open: 12noon - 4pm (inc weekends); 12noon- 7.30pm on Tuesdays; closed:
Wednesdays
Johnstone Cat Rescue
If you can help us with any
fundraising or donations of either
food or bedding, please call
Sheena on 01505 337321.
Thank you.
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.

48 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Bridge Of Weir Horticultural Society
In April, members took part
in a Gardening Quiz. The
teams handled an array of
written and visual questions
with aplomb and luck –
particularly when identifying
obscure tropical plants which
Donald had photographed
whilst on holiday! The
close results indicated the
five teams were a fairly
knowledgeable bunch. After
the Quiz, members listened
to a presentation about, “Our Carbon Footprint” by
Leslie Ritchie of LEAP.
The recent Spring weather has let us enjoy early
flowering shrubs, such as Camellias, Magnolias,
Amelanchier and cherry trees. In particular, Viburnum
tinus and V. X burkwoodii have been covered in scented
blossom; more noticeable this year under the “high”
which has been hovering above. Spring bulbs have
also put on a colourful display, flowering well under the
calmer weather front. This won’t last – but it has been
a remarkable few weeks.
When the weather is good – the gardeners get going, so
this is a timely reminder that also out and about will be
hedgehogs eating our slugs and snails. Blue slug pellets
are lethal for these creatures so must be avoided and
alternatives used
instead. Wool pellets
can be sprinkled
around tender
perennials and
summer bedding,
then watered in.
Slugs don’t like the
rough, hairiness and
back off. Really successful are “slug pubs” filled with
beer or cider. The sweetness draws the slimy creatures
in for a drink – and then oblivion! Equally effective are
plant saucers placed near seedlings, tender plants and
summer bedding and filled with beer or cider. There are
only 1 million hedgehogs left in the wild compared to
35 million in 1980s so we must do our bit to help these
endangered creatures.
Two dates for your gardening calendar: Thursday 11th
May when our guest will be Professor Stephen Phillips MBE
who will talk about Medicinal Plants. This will be a very
interesting and enlightening evening as he expands on our
basic awareness of plants used in medicines. We meet at
The Legion at 8pm and look forward to seeing you there.
Guests are always welcome.
On Saturday 20th May we hold our Plant Sale at 9.30am
outside The Legion. Here there will be a selection of shrubs
and perennials which are looking for new homes; seedlings
brought on by members and boxes of bedding plants. We’re
bound to find something you need in your garden!
Colourful Kilmacolm
April saw the usual spirit-lifting surge of growth in our
gardens, and, for Colourful Kilmacolm, in our various
planters. Daffodils and tulips have been the main stars,
but pulmonaria, saxifrage and hellebore added colour
to our planting at the Pullman.
As this is being written, the weather is still cold and it is
not easy to imagine that we will be planting out summer
bedding in a
few weeks, but
we plan ahead
with ideas for
summer floral
displays to make
the most of our
summer weather,
whatever it may
be this year.
Over the winter months a very willing
local volunteer worked hard with us
to cut back much of the laurel at the
Pullman site, as it was threatening
to take over. This has opened up
further areas for planting and we are always pleased to
be offered surplus plants for this area.
Members are reminded that our AGM will be held on
8th May. Colourful Kilmacolm is open to everyone. If
you have not yet joined, the very modest £5 annual
subscription will support our efforts. You can opt just to
be a supporter, or to be an ‘active gardener’ and help in
practical ways.
Membership forms can be downloaded from our website
www.colourfulkilmacolm.org.uk or you can phone Peter
(01505 872448) or Diane (01505 872611).

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
49 49
SO MUCH TO DO, SO LITTLE TIME
So many things are happening at once that our Advertizer
correspondent is running around in ever-decreasing
circles. Some might ask “so what else is new?”
Anyway, as followers of our Facebook page will already
know, we’ve had a couple of changes at the top. At our
recent AGM, Chair Alice Johnstone and
Treasurer Margaret Greenlees stood
down. Both are founder members
and have held these posts since
Brighter Bridge of Weir was formed in
2010. Time to step back then. They’ll
continue to be involved with the
Group, but will be able to have more
time to themselves. Brighter Bridge of
Weir would not have achieved what
it has without their hard work, both
in the field and behind the scenes.
At the meeting, Neil Thomson was
proposed as Chair and seconded by
Alice, while Margaret nominated Gary
Montgomery as Treasurer. These
were approved unanimously. The
transition will take a little time, due to
banking arrangements and so on, but
it will not change the aims and objectives of Brighter Bridge of Weir.
Secondly, our annual Clean-Up
Day is on Saturday May 6th (not
13th as previously announced,
since that clashes with other
events). If you’ve got an hour
or two to spare, you can join us
outside the Co-op in Livery Walk
at 10.30am. It’s not hard work,
but it will make things a bit easier
for our few volunteers.
Thirdly, all in the past few weeks,
Bridge of Weir Leather have
donated £500, a really good mark of support from a local company with
a world-wide reputation. And if ever we needed evidence of support from
across the spectrum, a local man donated £20 in passing, and a group
of local residents - The Bracken Book Club - gave us £150 to mark the
birthday of one of their members. Such spontaneous gestures are very
encouraging to all of us at Brighter Bridge of Weir.
Space is limited in the Advertizer, but you can find out more about these
and other events by following us on Facebook and visiting our website at
www.brighterbridgeofweir.org.
Bishopton Plant Sale
Cornerstone, Greenock Road, Bishopton
Christian Aid has been helping people in need, no
matter their belief or no faith at all, for 70 years. The
Annual Bishopton Christian Aid Plant Sale and Coffee
Morning takes place on Saturday 20th May from 10am to 12 noon. In
addition to selecting plants on the day, there will be a Pre-order Service for
Plants which is obtainable via members of the Christian Aid Committee.
Cost : Adults £2 (includes a coffee/tea and some home baking)
Annual Plant Sale
Lodge Sir Michael 989
Glebe Road, Kilmacolm
Fri 12th May - 5pm - 9pm
Fri 19th May - 5pm - 9pm
Sat 13th May - 9am - 4pm
Sun 14th May - 10am - 4pm
Sat 20th May - 9am - 4pm
Sun 21st May - 10am - 4pm
Planters and hanging baskets made to order. Free advice on plants. Large
variety of quality plants at value for money prices.
Kilbarchan Smile Gateway Garden Party Will Be Part
Of Lilifest 2017
Kilbarchan Smile is once again hosting the Gateway
Garden Party as part of this years Lilifest.
Taking place on Sunday 28th May (12noon - 4pm)
the event will celebrate the completion of the next
phase of development of the garden that recently
received some additional “Stalled Spaces” funding.
The family fun day will feature music, a performance by Loud and Proud,
LEAP, Fairtrade/Coop, RSPB and other stalls. Young Habbies can also join
storyteller Anne Pitcher for some interactive storytelling fun with puppets,
props, sound makers and songs. Hot dogs and refreshments will also be
available (while stocks last).
All are welcome to come and have a look, meet the volunteers and find out
more about getting involved.
TOP
GARDENING
TIPS
Joint Chair, Damon
Scott, said; “It is
hoped the Gateway
Garden Party and
ongoing access
to the garden will
encourage more
local people to get
involved, develop
an interest in
gardening and grow
their own plants.
“We’d really like as many people as possible to start to use the garden.
We’ve still got plenty of materials for making more growing spaces and
there is a lot of room. It is a really healthy outdoor pastime and we’re
actively encouraging the growing of vegetables and herbs.”
Gail Scoular, Joint Chair, adds: “The Gateway Garden Party is an
opportunity for local people to come and have a look at the space, meet
the volunteers and find out more about getting involved. We’ve continued
to have an amazing response from local businesses and individuals
including donations of materials and plants as well as invaluable help from
Renfrewshire’s Community Payback team.”
Before the garden party the next monthly Drop In session at the garden will
take place on Sunday the 14th of May from 1pm to 3pm. Come and help
with potato and veg planting and put your name down for a growing area
& start your very own veg plot! All welcome, gardening is great for all the
family.
Kilbarchan Smile is always looking for volunteers to help with the various
projects it is undertaking. To get involved contact Gail Scoular on 07985
749220, email gailscoular@gmail.com or join the group Kilbarchan Smile
on Facebook.
The ultimate garden treat for fun-loving felines is
Catnip (Nepeta cataria). Not all cats are susceptible but
70% of them will show great interest. Dried Catnip is available in
pet shops but the fresh plant makes an attractive addition to the garden
for both owner and puss. As it’s a member of the mint family, it can
become invasive so is best confined to a pot rather than in the ground.
Lavender is a great herb providing a bushy and attractive
hiding place for cats.
Cats love to lounge in the sun but can be prone to
sunburn. Planting large shrubs gives cats the
opportunity to seek shade while still enjoying the warm
weather.
Piles of logs make excellent areas for scratching claws,
while low shrubs make interesting hiding places for
cats to snuggle up in for an al fresco snooze.
A full list of plants that are dangerous and best to
avoid can be found on the International Cat Care’s website
www.icatcare.org. Lilies in particular can be lethal if a cat ingests
pollen from its fur after brushing against them.
Ensure your cat is fully vaccinated before venturing outdoors to protect against diseases and parasites.
Neutering is also vital to prevent unwanted kittens being born and to reduce roaming.

50 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Welcome to Scotland’s largest Regional Park
Spring Starts: The summer season got
underway with a busy weekend at the
start of April, since then there have been
Model Boat Championships, Bird Ringing
Demonstrations, Spring Sailability Regatta,
Easter Entertainment and Pedal the Park
100km Sportive to name just some of the
events and activities of the last month. Please look on our website for
forth coming events or pick up a summer whats on guide at a Visitor
Centre.
Summer Hours: The Park’s 3 Visitor Centres are open the following
hours: Castle Semple is open daily 10am – 5pm and Greenock and
Muirshiel are open weekends and public holidays 11am – 4pm. With the
lighter nights coming in we have lots of opportunity for you to get outside
and walk, run or cycle.
Ride 63 Community Cycle Club: Report that Tuesday evening is the
current ride night, meeting outside RT Cycles in Glengarnock at 6.20pm
or at Castle Semple at 6.40pm exact route depends on the weather and
who shows up. The 2017 club ride calendar can be seen on the Club
noticeboard at Castle Semple Visitor Centre. Contact the club on the
‘group style facebook page’ or email the secretary ridesixtythree@gmail.
com for a membership form and ride info.
Clyde Muirshiel Munchkins: This month this Brand NEW Pre 5’s Nature
Club will splash in to the pond to see what creatures call it home. Meet
at the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre on Wednesday 24th May, full details
including booking can be done online.
Keep Safe: Castle Semple Visitor Centre is now a ‘Keep Safe’ location
to help people with a disability feel safe in the community. A window
sticker lets folk know Castle Semple is a suitable place to come if they
feel threatened or vulnerable. Look here for www.iammescotland.co.uk
more information.
Looking Ahead:
Summer holiday outdoor activity courses are booking up but there are still
spaces available. Why not keep your kids busy and give them a taste of
outdoor adventure in the holidays, all courses can be booked using the
online booking system.
10k Bog Stomp Run takes place on Sunday 3rd September from the
Greenock Cut Visitor Centre, online entry is up and running at www.
clydemuirshiel.co.uk/event/bog-stomp-2017.
Tag-n-Track Project update
Spring has definitely sprung with the arrival of many of our migratory
birds. Willow warblers, chiffchaffs and swallows have all been spotted
and the lesser black-backed gulls are taking up territories and starting to
build nests on rooftops.
May is going to be a busy month for the project as we will be catching 12
adult gulls to fit with satellite tags. Our aim is to catch adults on the nest,
fit them with a tag, metal BTO ring and a colour ID ring before releasing
them to carry on nesting and rearing chicks. We will then make regular
weekly visits to see if we can spot them from a distance by looking for the
colour rings to see that the tags are not having any effect on their breeding
attempts. The tags we are going to be using are GSM satellite tags which
will take a fix on the gull’s positions up to 5 times a day. This data is then
relayed through the mobile phone network back to our computers. We
are expecting the birds to frequent their nesting sites during the summer
and then, in the autumn, the juicy data will start to come in.
By this point you are probably wondering why we are tagging gulls…well
did you know that the lesser black-backed gull leaves our shores in the
autumn and migrates to sunnier climes such as Portugal, Benidorm and
even The Gambia? Our project wants to highlight these movements that
this species makes by engaging the public. Gulls have a bad reputation
but many of the problems are actually caused by us rather than the gulls.
We will be doing regular social media and website updates letting people
know where the individual gulls are as well as working with schools in
Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and North Ayrshire. So keep an eye out for
gulls with white rings with red writing and let us know if you spot any. We
are also looking for volunteers to help us with a variety of project tasks
such as camera trapping monitoring, gull spotting and more. If you fancy
learning a new skill and want to find out more then please contact us on
the details below.
In other news the project was visited
by the Cotton Club (an older adult
recreational group) who enjoyed an
afternoon of bird ringing with siskins,
blue tits and long-tailed tits all putting
in an appearance. We also ran another
public demonstration in April which was
our busiest yet for visitors.
Unfortunately it was very windy and birds were few and far between.
This didn’t dampen the spirits of many avid visitors who were very patient
and happy to enjoy being in the Visitor Centre. We managed to capture
some more siskins and retrapped a coal tit that was ringed in September
2016 and a female
long-tailed tit that
was captured a
week before. Our
thanks goes out to
Bill Crookston and
Natalie McAlindon
who have taken
some of the bird
photos that you see in this and last month’s articles.
Event News
Our next ringing events will take place at Muirshiel Country Park on
Saturday the 6th of May between 10am and 3.30pm and Greenock Cut
Visitor Centre on Sunday the 7th of May between 10.30am and 3.30pm.
There will also be a ringing demonstration as part of the Waunder’ful
Woods day at Muirshiel Visitor Centre on the 21st of May between 11am
and 3pm. Please do come along and see what surprise birds we get in
the net this time. If you can’t join us on these days then keep an eye out
for our stand at the Kilmacolm show on Saturday 13th May and Gourock
Highland Games on Sunday 14th May.
More Info…
Details can be found on the Park’s website www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk/tagn-track
or by emailing tnt@clydemuirshiel.co.uk. The Project also now
has its own Facebook Page which can be found at www.facebook.com/
TagnTrack/
Talks to groups can be arranged if you are interested in finding out more
about the project and its findings as the project progresses.
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.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
51 51
For more information about the reserve or any of our events, please call
01505 842 663 or email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk.
Spring is upon us and wildflowers are starting to appear on the reserve.
At this time of year, as the days grow longer and the sun begins to shine a
little more, we start to think about the natural world that is a little closer to
home – gardens! Now is the time when many folk drag their lawnmowers
out of the garage, and start thinking about giving the garden hedge a trim.
As well as being fantastic places to enjoy the summer weather (when it
appears!), gardens are also vital habitats for a variety of wildlife. Whether
you are a green-fingered gardening expert or a reluctant grass-cutter, there
is plenty you can do to help give nature a home in your own garden.
A brilliant way to liven up your garden, and help our friends the bees,
is to add some flowers! Seeing that splash of summer colour will be
sure to brighten your day, but it will also be much appreciated by your
local bumblebees and honey bees. Many bee species are decreasing
in numbers quite dramatically due to
changes in climate and loss of habitat,
so why not give them a helping hand?
Adding a variety of different flowers to
your garden is a great way to do this.
Garden plants such as singles dahlias
and lavender can be planted in beds,
pots or baskets and are perfect for
nectar-loving bees. You can also try
adding some native wildflowers such as
scabious, tufted vetch and knapweed. Did you know that bees particularly
like purple flowers, as this is the colour they see most clearly?
If you’re searching for some floral inspiration, look no further than our
annual Plant Sale on Saturday 20th May. We will have a wide selection of
garden flowers and plants available to purchase, all with the added bonus
that some of the profits will go towards the RSPB’s vital conservation
work.

52 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Kilbarchan’s famous Lilias Day celebrations are all set for
Saturday 3 June!
Taking place in the conservation village of Kilbarchan, the Lilias Day
celebrations date back to the 1700s when the village was a centre of the
weaving trade in Renfrewshire. Today it is firmly established as a key event
in the Renfrewshire events calendar and a great day out for all the family.
A historic parade still leads the celebrations and is followed through the
village by decorated floats, pipe and brass bands and involvement from the
community and organisations in and around the area. The parade finishes
in Kilbarchan Park where a host of stalls, activities and events take place to
raise thousands of pounds for good causes.
Local residents and businesses will dress the outside of their premises
and a prize is given for the best decorated house and business as well as
for best decorated float. The parade leaves the bottom of the village at
1pm and along the way the statue of Kilbarchan’s famous piper, “Habbie
Simpson” on the steeple in the village square is brought to life and joins
the parade.
If you haven’t been to Lilias Day before, make this the year to come along
and join the fun.
Highlights for this years Lilias Day
Highlights for this years Lilias Day include a medieval battle re-enactment,
circus performers, the local football derby between Kilbarchan Primary
and Bridge of Weir and the annual tug of war tournament. Other features
include a food village, circus skills workshop, archery, a medieval camp,
dog show and Jamie McArthur’s music tent.
The parade will showcase the best in local piping with Kilbarchan, St
Columba’s and Houston pipe bands all taking part, followed by a fantastic
display of local creativity in a unique procession of floats. The park layout
helps to create a festival feel with a ‘food village’ ‘kids’ zone’ and ‘active
area’.
Big Prize Raffle
The grand finale this year will again be the big prize raffle, when one lucky
winner will leave the park £1,000 richer. If you haven’t bought your ticket
yet you can buy them at local shops throughout the village and on the day
at the Lilias Day Committee stall in the park. The raffle draw takes place in
the park on Lilias Day at 4.30pm.
You can keep up to date on all the latest news on the Lilias Day website
www.liliasday.co.uk
Miss Lilias And The School Queen
The two leading ladies of Kilbarchan’s Lilias Day have been announced for
the event taking place on Saturday 3rd June.
duties Cara will read a proclamation to officially open Lilias Day and, later
in the year, will have the honour of switching on the Christmas lights in
Kilbarchan.
Every year the most senior pupils in Kilbarchan Primary School elect a
School Queen and attendants to
represent the school at Lilias Day.
The group takes a leading role in
the parade and Miss Lilias crowns
the School Queen as the parade
arrives in the park.
The School Queen this year is Emma
Moore and her attendants are Zoe
Ryszewski and Cara Lauder. The
Crown Bearer is Pierre Minucci and
the footman Jason Kirkwood.
@LiliasDay
www.liliasday.co.uk
LILIFEST KICKS OFF LILIAS DAY CELEBRATIONS
Lilifest will once again present an exciting range of events and activities as
part of Kilbarchan’s Lilias Day Celebrations.
A number of new events have been added to the programme including
“An Evening with Rev Ian Miller” featuring one of Kilbarchan’s best loved
personalities. Ian is a master raconteur with an Aladdin’s cave of stories
and jokes as anyone who has had the pleasure of his company will testify.
Guests are sure to enjoy his “set” at Kilbarchan Performing Arts Centre on
Thursday 1st June proceeds of which he has kindly agreed to donate to
Kilbarchan Smile to reinvest in the village.
This years’ festival is brought right up to date with and an interactive Lego
animation workshop by Morgan Spence whose creations viewed more than
10 million times worldwide. He has also appeared on the BBC and ABC
television in the US discussing his work that includes videos for DJ Paul
Oakenfold and Paisley’s City of Culture bid. On Monday 29th May Morgan
will present a 90 minute workshop where he will be sharing his experiences
and knowledge of the craft before assisting participants in creating their
own animated clips* using Lego.
The Kilbarchan Smile Gateway Garden Party will once
again form part of Lilifest. Taking place on Sunday 28th
May (12-4pm) the family fun day will feature music, a
performance by Loud and Proud, LEAP, Fairtrade/Coop,
RSPB and other stalls. Young Habbies can also join
storyteller Anne Pitcher for some interactive storytelling fun
with puppets, props, sound makers and songs. Hot dogs and refreshments
will also be available (while stocks last).
A series of events including live music and quizzes will take place at the
village’s two pubs Habbies and The Trust whilst Village Voices and The
Junior Choir will perform their summer concert at Kilbarchan Parish Church
on Sunday 11 June (includes afternoon tea). The popular Barchan Mad
Comedy night also makes a welcome return on the night of Lilias Day itself
featuring a great line up with host for the evening, Graham Barrie.
Brookfield Knights bring more live music to the Performing Arts Centre with
internationally renowned roots music from Laura Cortese & The Dance
Cards from Boston on Tuesday 23rd May and Chris Stout & Catriona
McKay’s Shetland-inspired sound on Wednesday 7th June.
Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards
Chris Stout & Catriona McKay
Cara Batin is Miss Lilias 2017 and the School Queen is Emma Moore.
The Lilias Day committee choose Miss Lilias each year based on her
contribution to the community or good causes. Cara is in 4th year at
Johnstone High School. For several years Cara has been heavily involved
in ReMode, LEAP’s Youth Engagement Programme clothes upcycling
boutique in Lochwinnoch. She has also recently completed her Duke of
Edinburgh Bronze Award. Cara was voted school queen in 2013 and is
delighted to have been chosen to be Miss Lilias this year. As part of her
“Habbies Hoolie” family ceilidh makes a welcome return to the Kilbarchan
Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 17th June with the area’s leading ceilidh
band, Clamjamfrie, serving up a rousing evening of music and dancing on
the evening of the Kilbarchan Show.
Lilias Day itself will offer a day packed with activities and entertainment on
Saturday 3rd June with the park opening at 12noon and historic parade
starting at 1pm.
For full list of events please see the What’s on section or for more information
visit www.liliasday.co.uk

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
53 53
HIGHWOOD, KILMACOLM Open Sunday 14th May 2pm - 5pm for Bluebells
Woodland walk around 50 acres
of beautiful native bluebells in a
delightful setting bordering the
Green Water river with tumbling
waterfalls. Stout waterproof
footwear is essential as paths
can be muddy. Dogs welcome
on a lead. Fantastic opportunities
for lovers of wild flowers and
photography.
GET HERE - Take B786 Lochwinnoch Road out of Kilmacolm and continue for
approximately two miles then follow SG signs. From Lochwinnoch take B786
Kilmacolm Road for approximately six miles, then follow SG signs.
Donations welcome. Disabled Access Home made teas available. Dogs
Allowed. Plant stall. Delicious home baked tea and plant sale. Fun duck
race on the river for families at 3.30pm with rubber ducks available for
purchase on the day.
Orkidstudio receives 40%, the net remaining to SG Beneficiaries
BRIDGE OF WEIR ROAD GARDENS - NEW FOR 2017
Open Sunday 21st May 2pm - 5pm
BEECHWOOD - The garden was
redesigned in 2004 to provide a
sweeping lawn around the side
of the house suitable for family
use. The borders are well stocked
and offer an interesting variety
of shrubs and plants, including a
eucalyptus tree.
LARCHMONT - within the walled
gardens are mature trees, rhododendrons and azaleas with wide lawns
& herbaceous borders. The garden also offers a fine example of a late
Victorian glasshouse.
SHIELDHALL - was for many years part of St Columba’s School, returning
to residential use in the 1990s. Since then the tarmac playground has been
transformed into a well stocked garden with mature shrubs & herbaceous
plants, providing colour and interest throughout the year. The garden is
on two levels with a meandering path leading you through both.
GET HERE - The gardens are within 50 yards of each other on the Bridge of Weir
Road in the middle of Kilmacolm. Signage will be up on the day.
Entry £4. Disabled Access Home-made teas available. Dogs Allowed.
Plant stall. Ardgowan Hospice receives 40%, the net remaining to SG Beneficiaries
Brookfield Gardening group
This is an informal group of people interested in gardening. We meet
monthly during the growing season, taking turns to host the meeting and
offer a tour of our garden. It is a great opportunity to get advice from
other gardeners and share plants. Those who wish also help to keep the
Millennium Garden (at the top of Victoria Rd) and the flower beds at the
Village Hall stocked and weeded. If you are interested in joining us, please
contact Helen Ostrycharz by emailing hrostrycharz@gmail.com
Summer’s on its way
As bulbs fade and herbaceous
borders grow in leaps and bounds,
it is now clear that summer is
approaching. Sowing and planting
out bedding can begin, depending
on regional weather variations, and
you can take softwood cuttings. It’s
also time to get back into the lawn
mowing regime, as the lawn will be
loving the warmer temperatures
this month brings.
Top 10 Jobs This Month:-
1 - Watch out for late frosts. Protect
tender plants
2 - Earth up potatoes, and promptly
plant any still remaining
3 - Plant out summer bedding at the
end of the month (except in cold
areas)
4 - Water early and late to get the most
out of your water, recycle water
when possible
5 - Regularly hoe off weeds
6 - Open greenhouse vents and doors
on warm days
7 - Mow lawns weekly
8 - Check for nesting birds before
clipping hedges
9 - Lift and divide overcrowded clumps
of daffodils and other springflowering
bulbs
10 - Watch out for viburnum beetle and
lily beetle grubs
www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/may
Wildlife Crime
Liaison Officer
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.

54 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Langbank
Playgroup
Langbank playgroup is the place
to be!!! We offer a wide variety
of experiences for the children,
such as social interaction with
others, creative and imaginative
play opportunities, numeracy and
literacy challenges, as well as
outdoor play.
We are thoroughly enjoying our
Skoobmobile sessions and the
children are developing their
knowledge of songs and stories
through these sessions.
We have a close relationship with
the local Primary School and we
have already started our visits
to and from the school. This will
ensure a smooth transition for our
children venturing into Primary 1 in
August.
Do you have a child aged between
2.5yrs to 5yrs old? Then why not let
them come along and experience
the fun! Everyone welcome from
Langbank and surrounding areas.
Playgroup is held on a Friday
morning (term time) in Langbank
Village Hall and we currently have
spaces for children aged 2.5yrs to
5yrs. If you would like to join us
on a Friday morning or for more
information, please contact Jen
Burrows on 07947983025.
Kilmacolm
Toddlers and Playgroup
Kilmacolm Primary School
Firstly, a huge thank you to everyone who helped in making our Easter
Eggstravaganza fundraiser such a success! A good time was had by all
and these events could not go ahead without the hard work and support of
our committee members as well as everyone who attends the events.
The children are looking forward to some exciting events coming up
including their Sports Day and a summer trip.
The playgroup are currently recruiting for a new Senior playleader. To find out
more information and how to apply please email Carly at: cgorman1009@
gmail.com - full details can be found in the classified section at the back of
the magazine.
P1 had a visit from Buzzy, the giant honeybee, who lead our P1 pupils into
the wonderful world of bees in an interactive show by Generation Science.
The boys and girls learned how a bee’s body is different from ours and how
bees and flowers work together. There was fun, games and even ‘The
Busy Bee Dance’!
We took part in a fundraising event
for Red Nose Day, organised by our
P6/5 class and their teacher Mrs
McPherson. The pupils bought red
noses, dressed in red, donated a
£1 and then had fun and games in
the hall. We hope to raise a large
amount to donate to Comic Relief.
Thank you for your hard work P6/5
Mrs Carruth organised a visit from SSPCA where all classes had a short
talk about the important work the organisation does. The boys and girls
had lots of questions for Elizabeth and Andy and learned lots of interesting
animal facts and stories.
We recently were invited by Kilmacolm Art Class to hold a competition in P5-7
for art work to be displayed in the club’s exhibition in Kilmacolm Community
Centre. Our winners were: 3rd Ava Oates, 2nd Lilianna McWhinnie, 1st
Emily Wilson. Highly recommended were Jules Gaston and Emre Gider.
Thanks to Janice Sinclair and tutor Tom Murray who encouraged the boys
and girls and then judged the entries. Well done to all who took part and
many thanks to Kilmacolm Art Class for their kind donation to the school to
buy art resources.
We celebrated World Downs Syndrome Day by
wearing ‘Lots of Socks’ to raise awareness of Downs
Syndrome. We wore brightly coloured socks, patterned
socks, socks on socks, socks on heads, in fact, socks
just about everywhere!
There were a
lot of excited
children during
the auditions
for our school
show planned
for May. What
hard work the boys and girls put in,
they were word perfect, expressive
and more than just enthusiastic.
Leading parts were allocated
with more speaking parts to be announced at a later date. Well done to
everyone, you are the best!
We rounded off March by holding a coffee morning, organised by our Parent
Teacher Fundraising group. Staff, parents and pupils all helped to raise a
wonderful £562 for school funds. Thanks to all who helped donate to the
stalls or who helped on the day. We appreciate the continued support from
all parents and staff. Thank you.
Baby and
Toddler Group
A Baby and Toddler Group is held on
Friday mornings, 9.30am -11.30am
in Elderslie Kirk, Main Rd, Elderslie.
It only costs £2 and that includes a
snack for your little one and a lovely
cup of tea / coffee for yourself. Lots
of different toys to play with - all
welcome!
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
Kilmacolm Playgroup
St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm,
9.30am - 11.40am
Howwood Playgroup
Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am
every Wednesday
Kilmacolm Toddlers
St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm,
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.
Howwood Playgroup
Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am
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
Kilmacolm Playgroup
St Columba Church Hall, Kilmacolm,
9.15am - 11.40am
Howwood Playgroup
Howwood Church Hall, 9.45am - 11.35am
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.

St Fillan’s
Primary
@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
Duchal
Nursery
55 55
Many thanks to all the parents of
St Fillan’s who sponsored their
children to take part in our obstacle
course. It has raised a fantastic
amount of money for school funds.
We will be using the money to buy
new laptops for the school and this
should now allow us to have 1 per
pupil at computer times.
Our tennis players took part in a
tournament at Strathgryffe and
did us proud in their team effort
while our rugby players enjoyed
participating in a tournament in
Greenock.
Our annual
Easter Bonnet
Parade took
place before
we stopped for
the holidays.
There was a
great variety
of creations.
Very well done
to all of our enterprising families for
working together to allow us to have
our Easter Bonnet Parade.
Our P7 children organised a food
bank collection for Johnstone food
bank and we were overwhelmed by
the generous contributions from our
parents.
Gryffe High School
Delightful Spring Concert
We are delighted that Greenock
Morton Community Trust are doing
football taster sessions for the
children again this term, we have
had great fun doing this over the
past few years. The Trust aims
to encourage children to choose
exercise as a healthy way of life and
the children are loving their time on
the pitch learning new skills!
We are all getting very creative with
egg boxes and stone painting for
the entries for this year’s Kilmacolm
Show, we will have a stand there too
so please pop over to say hello!
As you can see we have an action
packed time at Duchal, learning
through play in a friendly secure
environment, if you would like to
find out more about what we do and
find out more about our extended
hours, please come along to our
Open Morning on Saturday 20th
May from 10am – 12noon. This is
open to anyone who is interested
in nursery places in the future and
is a great opportunity to meet the
teachers and current parents and
get a taste for Duchal life, we look
forward to welcoming you.
More information is available on
our website www.duchal.com and
our Facebook page. If you would
like to arrange to visit the nursery to
see for yourself what we can offer
please email info@duchal.com.
A busy theatre thoroughly
enjoyed the exceptional musical
talent of our pupils in the Spring
Concert. As they say, ‘Practice
makes Perfect’ and that certainly
shone through with each well
thought out performance. As well
as the Jazz Band, Concert Band,
Choir and String Ensemble, the
audience was treated to solo recitals from our ‘Young Musicians of the Year’
winners.
Eco Committee News
March 25th was WWF Earth Hour
2017, which raises awareness of
the issue of Global Warming by
encouraging people to turn off their
lights between the time of 8.30pm
- 9.30pm. The Eco Committee
supported this challenge. As
well as organising an informative
short presentation for all S1 to S3
classes, subjects were challenged to teach in the dark for a period. S2
can be seen here in the Maths Department engrossed in a maths related
Treasure Hunt - working in the dark!
Remember to follow us on Twitter: @GryffeEco
Mr. J. Clark – on behalf of The Eco Committee
Kilmacolm Nursery
The children in Kilmacolm Nursery Class have
been enjoying some Outdoor Learning. They
have enjoyed the Spring weather by taking
trips to Duchal woods and spending a lot of
time in the nursery garden. The children are
particularly enjoying the ‘Mud Kitchen’ that was
created by CBC (the company who refurbished
the school).
There is a
lot of fun and very muddy learning going
on! The children are learning all about
‘Fairytales’ just now and they have created
a huge beanstalk and castle in the nursery.
They have also planted ‘magic’ beans in
the hope that a real beanstalk grows!
Photography Blog
by Lauren Russell, Owner, Little Studio Kilmacolm
How much is Newborn photography worth?
Think back to how you deliberated over your wedding
photographer - you ensured that the photographer was
experienced so that your special day would be captured
beautifully and professionally. This was probably a budgetstretcher
but worth it in the long run as you now have a
cherished collection of photos by which to relive that day.
Wedding and Newborn photography have one thing in common - neither
photoshoot can be repeated! Newborn sessions usually have to be booked far
in advance and have to take place within the first 10 - 14 days of your newborn’s
life, as the newborn characteristics disappear after just 2 short weeks.
From the very first moment you see, hold and smell your newborn child, your
world will change forever and your wedding day will pale in significance to this
time in your life. You will want to remember all the little details such as your
baby still curled up, milk spots, flakey skin, wisps of hair, pouty lips, curled up
fingers and toes. These little details will change and disappear every single
day as baby gets older and you will more than likely want both parents in these
photos as well!
Clients who come to me to get their 6 or 7 month old baby photographed for
the first time, more often than not express their regret at not having booked in
for a Newborn session.
Perfecting poses and handling newborns (and doing so safely) takes years of
training, practice and hard work. Newborn photographers simply cannot make
mistakes. Any professional Newborn photographer will tell you that, above
everything, safety is paramount.
What you need to take into
consideration is that the
photographer you choose,
works safely with your baby,
is experienced in posing and
soothing newborns, has a varied
portfolio showing comfortable and
relaxed babies and, lastly, has a
good reputation.
So, if you’re wondering how much
Newborn photography is really
worth, the answer shouldn’t be a
monetary amount. It should be
how much these images will be
worth to you.

56 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Port Glasgow High School
BBC Orchestra comes to PGHS (by Sarah Harrison S3)
A selection of instrumentalists from our
school had the opportunity to participate
in the BBC 10 Pieces Project. This
involved working with players from the
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra who
held a question and answer session, a
master class with two senior pupils and
rehearsals to perfect our chosen pieces. This was a once-in-a-lifetime
experience and I can guarantee that everyone involved has come out with a
better understanding of classical music and with inspiration for the future.
Saturday School
Our senior pupils have been investing
extra effort on their exam preparation
over the last month. In addition to over
300 Supported Study sessions which
have been offered as part of our on-going
programme, we have been delighted to
develop a partnership with the Saturday
School Ltd in Glasgow. A number of our
National 5 Maths pupils have given up
some of their Saturday to attend additional sessions at City of Glasgow
College. Pupils have reported that these sessions have been of real benefit
– and have enjoyed some lunch in Glasgow as some well-deserved ‘down
time’!
WASTED project (by Jay Robertson S2)
On Thursday 16th March, S2 pupils took part in a workshop about alcohol
and drugs. We learned about what alcohol and drugs do to your body and
what the side-effects are. We also learned how to help someone who is
affected by alcohol or drugs. There were 8 different stations, each one with
a different purpose. The people who ran the event were the Inverclyde
Youth team. We spoke to police officers who gave us a lot of information.
This event was fun, informative and if you get the chance to do it, you
should.
Duke of Edinburgh Day
Hike
S3 pupils spent a day
enjoying a practice hike in
preparation for the qualifying
expedition required for
the Bronze award. Pupils
navigated the Greenock
Cut using map reading skills
which had been developed
in class. And all in glorious
sunshine! A thoroughly
good day was had by all.
Girls in Science
The school recently hosted a Girls in Science event which involved
participants from a number
of schools along with visiting
Scientists. It was a huge success
and very enjoyable for the pupils
involved.
Follow us on Twitter @
PortGlasgowHS and @
PGHS_PE_
Houston Baby & Toddlers
We are really looking forward to our upcoming sessions at toddlers,
enjoying seeing our friends, more crafts and even a teddy bears picnic.
Why not come along and join us on a Thursday morning?
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 (term time only -
CLOSED 1st & 25th May) in the West hall,
Main Street, Houston, PA6 7EL (next door
to the Carrick Centre) – welcome anytime.
We look forward to meeting you. Sharon,
Lesley & Fiona. (lesleyannjackson@
outlook.com).
Houston Primary School
Eco News
The P6 Eco Representatives and Rangers have taken a leading role in
preparing bird feeders and ensuring that there is plenty of food to attract
the birds down at our beautiful orchard. Their aim is to attract as many
birds as possible before Hayley from Clyde Muirshiel comes to set up her
bird catching net ready to tag and track the birds in our local environment
in June as part of our Eco Vertical Learning day. We also plan to visit the
Craigends Yew, identify trees and their leaves, build dens, create transient
art pieces using natural materials and have loads of fun outdoors all day
long.
The Primary 6 pupils have also entered a competition to create a poster
about saving energy organised by Renfrewshire Council. The winning
entrant will receive a £50 voucher for the Science Centre and the school
will receive money for Eco projects. Green fingers crossed!
Our Gardening Club set a whole school challenge to decorate a planter and
fill it with spring bulbs. Now that the bulbs have bloomed our judges Mrs
Morrison and local gardener Hamish have chosen the winning planters.
The awards go to P1B, P4 P5 and P6.
Class News
The Primary 7 pupils are looking forward to their annual residential trip to
Loch Insh, where they will learn to windsurf, kayak, canoe, sail and raft
build to name but a few activities that are on offer. A wonderful week of
adventure lies ahead.
They also look forward to their transition visit to Gryffe High School in May.
Primary 7 also entered the local Rotary Quiz and they won! The pupils
who will now be representing us in the regional final are Peter Boyd, Ben
Stevenson, Luke Wilson and Tylar Pollock. Our reserves are Emma Laird
and Sarah Donnelly. They have been studying every lunchtime. What a
clever and dedicated team they are.
A number of stages held open afternoons which were very well attended.
It is a wonderful opportunity for parents and grandparents to come and see
all the amazing work that we do. Thank you for all the positive comments
in our Visitors book.
Primary 4 have been studying Charlie and the
Chocolate Factory and were inspired to create
their own elevator inside the class. I’m sure you
will agree it is choc-tastic.
Primary 2 are learning about the Vikings and are
heading off to Vikingar in Largs to enhance their
learning.
Happy Birthday Houston
Houston Primary School has been celebrating its 40th year by inviting in
former staff and pupils who have kindly shared their memories of days
gone by with us. We took the opportunity to record this special moment by
having a whole school aerial photograph taken in the shape of the number
40. We also released 40 ruby helium balloons and sang happy birthday at
the top of our voices as we watched them
float away.
The nursery have been having Stay and
Play sessions for pupils and parents. The
pupils have confidently shown their special
guests all of the things they like to play with
when they are at nursery. A good time was
had by all.
Amazing Clarice Cliff artwork by Primary 7.
The National Theatre of
Scotland is partnering
up with the Wheatley
Foundation to give 200
young people from disadvantaged backgrounds
the opportunity to go to the theatre for the first
time.
The scheme will see young people living in
Wheatley Group homes across the central belt of
Scotland given the chance
to see a performance, get
a backstage tour, and
be given a workshop on
drama and performance.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
57 57
St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm
Open Week 22nd - 26th May
Visit us during our Open Week from 22nd to 26th May to see our Early Years,
Junior and Senior Schools at work and play. We provide an all-through
education for boys and girls age 3-18 and offer wraparound care from 7.30am
- 6pm.
At St Columba’s pupils and parents are known by name. From the day
of arrival you are warmly welcomed into a supportive and compassionate
community where lifelong friendships are forged. Together with excellent
teaching, this ensures that every child achieves their full potential. We also
offer a wide range of Advanced Higher subjects to those who wish to join us
for their sixth year, and are happy to discuss your options with you.
To book an appointment for Junior School please call 01505 872768 or 01505
872238 for Senior School and visit www.st-columbas.org to find out more
about us.
Pipe Band on Tour in NYC
Our Pipe Band certainly made the most of
the Easter break by travelling across the
pond to embark on a 5 day tour of New York!
They received an overwhelmingly fantastic
reception, with praise flooding in from all of their
performances, in particular the Tartan Parade on
6th Avenue and their ‘Flash Mob’ performance
in Grand Central Station. It was an amazing
experience for everyone involved and as a
School we are very proud of their achievement.
Former Pupil and School Matches
We had a great day and turnout for the annual Former Pupils v School hockey
and rugby matches on Saturday 25th March. Well done to all the players for
hard-fought matches. Sales from the match programme raised £168.73 for
the East Africa Appeal. The results were -
Hockey: 1st XI 1 - 0 FPs
Player of the Match - Imogen Davies
Rugby: School Captain’s XV 24 - 12 Vicecaptain’s
XV
Player of the Match - James Smith
FP Old Boys 28 - 32 Old Old Boys
Player of the Match - Iain Gillies
Junior School London Drama Trip
Our J5/J6 pupils were also busy during Easter
with a drama trip down to London to explore
some of the city’s fantastic theatrical offerings.
They enjoyed an afternoon at Pineapple Dance
Studio, street theatre in Convent Garden and
a trip to see School of Rock amongst many
other activities. It was a jam packed 3 days
with lots of fun, laughter and learning!
Silver Tablet Concert
A date for your diary! The Silver Tablet celebrates the best of musical talent
from Senior VI who compete for this award by performing pieces of Grade 8
standard. The concert will be held on the morning of Monday 5th June in St
Columba’s Church at 11.30am followed by light refreshments. Members of
the School community, including parents, friends, former pupils, former staff
and former parents are all welcome to attend this lovely musical celebration.
Please contact nmnkay@st-columbas.org if you wish to attend.
Annual Sports Dinner
Well done to all of the winners from our
Sports Dinner. It was a fantastic evening
with our Guest Speaker Ross Miller, Former
Pupil (2003) and Scotland 7s internationalist.
The winners were;
Joe Yacoubian - Captain’s Shield & Murray
Kicking Cup
Maddie Cleat - Captain’s Shield
Eilidh Fleming - Goalkeeper’s Shield
Imogen Davies - Players’ Player of the Year
Harry Briggs - Players’ Player of the Year
The Green Cup - Most improved Hockey player of the year - Anna Hendry
The Steel Cup - Most Improved Rugby Player of the year - Jamie Wilson
St Columba’s at Kilmacolm Show
We’ll be at the Kilmacolm Show on Saturday 13th May with a marquee full
of exciting games and fun activities, so don’t forget to pop along and say hi
when you’re there!

58 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Boglestone Judo Club
Boglestone junior section were on their travels to the Satire championships
in Lasswade outside of Edinburgh.
It was a great day out with Boglestone winning 4 medals on the day. These
junior club competitions are a great way to let the junior players try the
techniques they have practised in the club in a competitive environment, the
juniors did well, with silver medals going to Harry Vine and Luke Wolfenden
and Bronze medals going to Dillon Tollan and Gary Thomas.
Boglestone juniors practice on a Wednesday at Boglestone Community
Centre from 7pm to 8pm.
Gleddoch Ladies Golf Club
A Great Start To The New Golfing Season
The boys celebrate on the winners rostrum
Gleddoch Ladies had their first
competition of the year on 1st
April, a fun tri-am competition
over 12 holes. The weather was
fine (mostly), the sandwiches
afterwards very welcome, and
everyone enjoyed themselves
thoroughly. The winners were new
captain Mhairi, Trixie and Shirley, in
spite of Shirley’s buggy problems!
It was great to meet friends not seen all winter, and we are all looking
forward to the new season.
Gleddoch Ladies are a friendly bunch and welcome visitors and
prospective new members. Contact Martin McCorkell on 01475
540704, or Gleddoch Hotel Reception.
Kilmacolm Ladies Golf Club
What a treat for the Ladies
section of Kilmacolm Golf
Club who enjoyed an
evening with Jim McArthur,
recent past Chairman of
Congo and of the R&A
Championship Committee
and Hazel Irvine, renowned
television and sports
presenter.
Lady Captain, Lois Brown
welcomed everyone and Past Captain Susan Reid introduced our guests.
Jim, a seasoned speaker, tee’d off with a tried and tested anecdote using
notable names from the Ladies section to bring much laughter to the room.
He spoke enthusiastically and gave us an insight into his role at the R&A,
his involvement with the Open championships and as a rules official. If
you think you struggle to remember the rules of golf, try recalling them
under pressure with TV cameras and microphones honing in on your
answer! Touchingly, he recounted the year at Royal St. George’s, when
Darren Clarke won his Open title and the overwhelming support from both
crowd and players. Another moving moment, witnessing Ernie Els’ and
Adam Scott’s great sportsmanship over the 2012 Open; the essence of
golf and the nature of the game in clear evidence that day. From municipal
beginnings as a lad in Glasgow to Augusta National Golf Club, he has
golfed all over the world. With a staggering 120 qualifying rounds played
last year, his wife wonders that they are still married! Although difficult to
pick a favourite, both he and Hazel agreed that British courses offer true
Open tests, Muirfield being their top pick.
Hazel held us captivated with her career in broadcasting and journey to date.
As well as golf, she’s commentated on snooker, football and presented at
both Commonwealth and Olympic Games. With viewing figures reaching
tens of millions, the enormity of the task was ever present. She readily
admitted that whilst being a keen sportswoman, she’s never had the drive
to become exceptional. However, commentating on and interviewing those
at the top of their field, for her, is the next best thing. As with her presenting,
her evening’s preparation was meticulous and she spoke effortlessly
without missing a beat. What one doesn’t necessarily appreciate on TV is
the warmth of her character and just how natural and charming she is, with
a great sense of humour. Oh, and as his golf partner, Jim tells us she is an
impressive driver of the ball!
Although the season opener had
to be postponed due to snow,
the night was a huge success.
A laughter filled evening was
followed by a welcome supper
from Stuart’s catering team, with
Mamie outdoing herself once
again with the cake selection.
With a new manager at the club,
we’re now looking forward to
an enthusiastic and successful
126th year of golf.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
European Cycling Challenge
Baby Massage Classes
59 59
This year the challenge includes the immediate area
outside the city of Glasgow to include the neighbouring
municipalities in the Clyde Valley area collectively known
as Glasgow City Region. This should help encourage
more cycling and include multimodal journeys helping
get more people out on their bikes.
Across the area has seen a huge growth in its citizen’s love of cycling, with
many who work in the city travelling by bike. Types of cycle route provision
is varied and includes: segregated cycle ways, on road facilities designated
via lining, signed routes on quiet roads or through its parks and shared
surfaces provided for pedestrians and cyclists. With a focus in promoting
health and sustainable transport, cycling is the natural choice.
In the city centre there is a cycle hire scheme, run by Next Bike. With 43
stations and 420 hire bikes located at transport hubs, it’s the easy way to
get to destinations across the city and visit tourist attractions, and cultural
and educational centres across the city.
The climate of the Clyde Valley is similar to most northern European
towns and cities, the people are friendly, the architecture stunning and the
surrounding countryside beautiful.
Whatever your reason to come to Glasgow, you’ll enjoy it even more getting
around by bike. Further information on the challenge for the Glasgow City
Region can be found here: www.nhsggc.org.uk/ecc
Baby massage the perfect way to encourage and
nurture that vital bond between parent and baby.
Learning this skill offers a wonderful opportunity to
spend time with your little one encouraging both
verbal and non verbal communication ensuring
they feel loved, valued and respected.
My name is Janette and I have worked in childcare
for over 25 years, the past seven years supporting
parents affected by post natal depression and I am
passionate about encouraging and nurturing that precious connection
between parent and baby. I am a fully qualified infant massage therapist
and a member of the International Association of Infant Massage.
Infant massage provides that all important stimulation of your baby’s
senses promoting better health and well being. It can help your baby to feel
securely attached, increase levels of relaxation and longer sleep, reduces
crying and emotional distress, improves coordination and relief from wind,
colic and constipation. For you as a parent it helps you feel closer to your
baby, increases confidence in your ability to care for and nurture your baby,
understand your baby’s behaviour, crying and body language.
Classes are offered locally either in groups or one to one on weekdays and
Saturday mornings. Mums, Dads, close family members or primary carers
are welcome.
Warm and welcoming environment in which to learn a new life long skill.
Refreshments provided and opportunity to meet new parents.
Please contact for further information – email janette.a.mckenna@gmail.
com
Morton Chairman to be
Highland Games Chieftain
Saturday 24th - Sunday 25th June
After the thrill of it’s debut in Scotland in 2016, the Grand Prix of the Sea
will return to Greenock in 2017! Don’t miss this great FREE event at the
Esplanade in Greenock.
Mixed in with the powerboat and jet-ski racing will be jet-ski freestyle
displays, air displays and
a wide range of stalls and
interactive games afloat
and ashore.
For more information, visit
www.p1superstock.co.uk
The Chieftain for the Gourock Highland Games has been named as
Greenock Morton Chairman Douglas Rae OBE.
The businessman – who is also chairman of the Golden Casket
confectionary corporation – will preside over the 61st annual games at their
new permanent home at Battery Park.
Douglas Rae OBE said: “I am absolutely thrilled and extremely honoured to
have been asked. I am really looking forward to the event and to spending
the day with everyone taking part. Hopefully the sun will be shining.”
Gourock Highland Games - on Sunday 14 May - hold a unique position in
Scotland marking the start of the Scottish Highland Games season and this
year come just a week before the first major pipe band championships.
Alongside the pipe band competitions the event includes traditional
highland games, heavyweight events, the West of Scotland Highland Dance
Championships and mini highland games involving local school children.
The event will also host the first ‘come and try sports’ event with a range of
free sports activities.
Fairground rides, children’s activities, vintage fire engines and a wide range
of food and community stalls add to the entertainment for people of all
ages.
The Games open to the public at 12.00pm and culminate with the Chieftain’s
March Past.
Gourock Highland Games is organised by Inverclyde Council and supported
by River Clyde Homes, Inverclyde Active Schools, Gourock Community
Sports Hub and Gourock festival of sports.
The piping competitions at Gourock Highland Games are run under the
auspices of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA).

60 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Twist & Hit Cheerleaders Free Taster Session
Sunday 7th May, 2017 from 1:15pm to 6:30pm
The Bield Scout Hall, Woodside Crematorium, Broomlands
Street, Paisley, PA1 2NP
At our training facility you will get the chance to watch this
AWESOME sport in full action and learn how to tumble, stunt,
jump and dance in a safe environment.
With FREE complimentary food, drink and entertainment you will
get the chance to socialise, play games and interact in a high
paced fun sport.
11 years and younger - 1.15pm-2.30pm
Watching a performance from our MINI 1 ROSE and YOUTH 1
LIME teams followed by a taster session
12 years and over
Watching a performance from our JUNIOR 2 MINT and SENIOR
3 FUSCHIA teams followed by a taster session
www.voluntaryarts.org/Event/twist-hit-cheerleaders-free-taster-session
West End Snakes and Ladders
A huge park area in the West End of Paisley, complete with
basketball courts and a large asphalted area has been badly
overgrown and filled with litter for years. We have cleared and
cleaned the area and its original paving, and will be creating a
ground mural of a snakes and ladders board game that would
largely fill the asphalt area and be used by all the children in the
area, including those in wheelchairs.
We are a community service squad made up of between 2-5
different people each Wed-Sat 9.30-3.30. Our event would go over
two weeks to ensure quality and engage the maximum number of
our clients and the local residents. We will start by chalk outlining
the board, then do as many squares as possible each day,
finishing with lettering and the snakes and ladders themselves.
The snakes will feature the paisley pattern throughout.
If you want to join, contact Ria FitzGerald
riafitzgeraldinteriorstyling@hotmail.com
and on 0141 8401 001.
Extra Funds For Sport
An additional £2 million will be invested in sports governing bodies, Minister
for Sport Aileen Campbell has announced.
The extra funds will be distributed by sportscotland, the national agency for
sport, to help offset reduced revenue from the National Lottery.
Sport governing bodies receiving a share of the extra money will be asked
to help meet the Scottish Government’s priorities on reducing inequalities
in sports participation. This means encouraging more women and girls to
take part in sport, achieving 50/50 gender balance on boards, and greater
engagement with LGBT communities, disadvantaged communities and
other under-represented groups.
sportscotland will now work with sports
governing bodies to make final decisions
about how to allocate the additional
investment.
Ms Campbell said: “The Scottish Government is committed to do all we can
to encourage more people to lead active lives. Sports governing bodies
have an important role to play in that, and they can also be instrumental in
ensuring equal access to sport and physical activity.
“We’ve asked the UK Government not to compound the effect of their
austerity agenda by ignoring the problem of falling revenues to sport from
the National Lottery – but they don’t appear to be listening.
“That’s why we’re providing this additional £2 million to help sportscotland
and the governing bodies meet our shared goal - a healthier Scotland
where everyone gets a fair chance to enjoy sport.”
Chair of sportscotland Mel Young said: “The Scottish Government and
sportscotland have been working very closely for a period of months with
a view to delivering the best possible financial outcome for sport and we’re
delighted that the Minister is announcing an additional £2 million into
sport.
“This extra investment from the Scottish Government allows sportscotland
to supplement our planned investment into the Scottish governing bodies of
sport and will help protect jobs and encourage growth within the sports.
“We believe in the power of sport, in its ability to help instil leadership and
teamwork among our children and young people, allow people to lead
happier, healthier lives, and to promote social cohesion, so it is terrific news
that the Scottish Government has been able to provide extra money for
sport in Scotland.”
Walk a Mile Event - Paisley
Wednesday 10 May 2017, 12 noon, walk commences at 12.30pm
Fountain Gardens, Love Street, Paisley, PA3 2DZ (at the fountain)
To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, the Renfrewshire Anti Stigma
Alliance (RASA) group are organising a ‘Walk a Mile’ event on the 10 May.
The aim is to raise awareness of Mental Health and to challenge mental
health stigma and discrimination. The walk is being supported by the
national charity See Me and is inspired by Chris Young’s UK wide campaign
to end mental health stigma and change the way people think about
mental health. For further information please contact: bernadette.reilly@
renfrewshire.gcsx.gov.uk
To Register visit: https://letswalkamile.org/events/walk-a-mile-renfrewshire
Please note the initiative is not restricted to Fountain Gardens area, you
can do it Anywhere and Anytime
on Wednesday 10 May 2017.
Afterwards, if you want you can
share your experience with other
Walkamilers by uploading a
selfie on Twitter and Instagram
using the national hashtag
#letswalkamile or Renfrewshire
based #WalkamileinRenfrewshire

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
St Vincent’s Hospice
Annual Golf Day
Kilmacolm Golf Club
Free lessons
61 61
The weather was glorious for the
annual St Vincent’s Hospice Golf Day
which was held this year at Ranfurly
Castle Golf Club, Bridge of Weir on
Friday, 24th March.
After a 1pm shotgun start, our golfing
enthusiasts set off on the course
with a chance to win a brand new
car sponsored by Arnold Clark if they
managed a hole in one on the 7th
tee! This day was not only a fantastic
fundraiser raising over £10,000 but an
extremely enjoyable afternoon despite
no hole in one!
The Winning Team “The Magnificent Seven Frank
Morrison, David Ewart, Erin Morrison, Les Meenely
“The Old Ran girls” team L-R Mairi Milne, Hazel
Kirkland, Jennie Scott and Angela Paterson
Louise Strachan, Hospice
fundraiser said “we could not
have wished for a better day in
March, the sun shone from start to
finish. We would like to thank all
of the individuals and businesses
who supported this day including
the team at Ranfurly Castle
Golf Club, Arnold Clark, Stewart
Catering and all local businesses
who kindly sponsored a tee.
Ronnie Carswell, Secretary at Ranfurly Golf Club said “were are delighted
to have been able to support the St Vincent’s Hospice golf day and all
at Ranfurly Castle Golf Club are absolutely delight the day was such a
success”.
St Vincent’s Hospice is a charitable organisation at the heart of the
community, offering specialist care and services to all those affected by
life-limiting illness.
“Zipslide the Clyde”
in aid of St Vincent’s Hospice
Glide across the Clyde on a zip wire attached to a mobile crane and
see Glasgow from a new perspective.
Join us on Saturday 13th May and help us raise funds to support those
with life- limiting illnesses in the Renfrewshire area.
Thirteen was the lucky number of participants that took part in “Zipslide
the Clyde” for St Vincent’s Hospice on Sunday 9th April. The thrill seekers
braved an adrenaline filled flight across the River Clyde on a zip wire and to
date have raised £3,500 while doing so.
If you would like to test your nerves and support local patient care in
Renfrewshire why not sign up to our Saturday 13th May “Zipslide the
Clyde”. Minimum sponsorship £150. Let’s hope the 13th will be another
lucky fundraising day for the Hospice!
If you would like further information, please contact our fundraising team on
01505 705635 or email info@svh.co.uk.
Pictured L-R Jennifer McLaughlin, Lauren Gallagher , Rachel Carruthers,
Laura Horn, Laurent Jean
This year almost 60 people, of various ages, took advantage of our PGA
professional Iain Nicholson’s free golf lessons starting off at St Columba’s
Church Hall and finishing up at Kilmacolm Golf Club. Demand was such
that Iain offered three one hour sessions every Monday night over a 12
week period, with participants encouraged and supported by several
members of the golf club.
The sessions have continued to prove very popular and based on feedback,
we’ve made improvements to our ‘Intro to Golf Membership’ package. We
now offer:
Full access to our driving range & practise facilities;
Weekly Monday range practise sessions with
member’s supervision & support;
A free golf lesson with & ongoing support
from our club professional;
Flexible access to the golf course with a
variety of circuits suitable for beginners;
A buddy system mentoring & supporting you
on the golf course;
Access to a friendly welcoming clubhouse.
If you would like to take advantage of this
membership and all that it can offer; please
get in touch with Iain Nicholson [872695] or the
golf club office [872139]. We look forward to
hearing from you and supporting your pathway
to playing golf.
Renfrewshire Girls Golf
A coaching day was held at Kilmacolm Golf Club on Sunday 26th March for
the young girl golfers in the area. Some of the girls were quite new to golf
so it was great for them to meet up, make new friends and learn some basic
skills.
With the sun shining and the girls resplendent in the county colours,
Kilmacolm’s club professional Iain Nicolson led the coaching session and
concentrated on short game skills. The girls then had the opportunity to play
some “real golf”, the more experienced girls playing over the 7 hole shortened
course and the others playing 3 holes marked out on the driving range.
Finally there was putting, pizza and prizes and hopefully encouraged some
new young golfers girls for the future.
Lynda Bradley Junior Convenor, Kilmacolm GC
Ladies County Championship
Eilidh Briggs, Curtis Cup player, won this year’s Renfrewshire Ladies
County Championship at Pollok Golf Club on 14th April. Well done, Eilidh;
a great start to your competitive golf season.
Lois Brown, Lady Captain

62 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
Kilmacolm Bowling Club
On Saturday 8th April, President Jack Taylor open the green for the forthcoming season. His wife Marjory
delivered the first bowl. (pictured l-r Chris King, Phil
Harrison, Marjory Taylor and Jack Taylor)
The Ladies President, Sandra Crawford was joined by
her husband Sandy to welcome the ladies to the green
on Tuesday 11th April.
The bowling club are holding a come and try weekend
on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th April between 10am
and 2pm.
Please bring a pair of flat soled shoes. For further
information, contact the Secretary on 01505 874239 or
kilmacolmbowlingclub@gmail.com
Simplyhealth Great Women’s Run
Ever fancied trying dingy sailing or windsurfing or other watersport? Come
and try on Sunday 14th May at Castle Semple Loch 10.30am - 4pm.
Castle Semple Sailing Club has a variety of dinghies which you will be able
to see both on and off the water. Likewise Clyde Windsurfing Club will be
demonstrating windsurfing for anyone who wishes to try this exciting sport.
For further info and to book a sail contact dawn@castlesemplesc.co.uk
or contact Mike at mike@clydewindsurfing.co.uk. Castle Semple Rowing
Club will also have their rowing machines available and clinker built rowing
boats for you to try.
All clubs involved are
working together to build a
new watersports hub at the
lochside which will provide a
top notch facility for the clubs
and the local community well
into the future. The Semple
Sports Action Partnership
(“SSSAP”) project involves
the Sailors, Windsurfers,
Rowers and also the Fishermen from St Winnoch Angling club. We are
raising funds for the build so if you would like to make a donation please
feel free to leave your spare change in one of our donation boxes on the
day. All donations are very welcome and much appreciated.
Sunday 4th June
The Simplyhealth Great Women’s
Run is the largest women’s only
running event in Scotland and is
the perfect opportunity to get a
team of friends together to take on
the 10k or NEW 3k distances.
Whether you walk, run or jog, you
will all get that finish line feeling
and be able to celebrate in style in
the heart of Glasgow’s West End.
“The new route was awesome”, “The atmosphere was electric” & “Amazing
entertainment on course” were just some of the comments that we received
last year and 2017 is set to be even bigger once again…so what are you
waiting for…sign up to today and be part of something GREAT!
every Mo n d a y
every Th u r s d a y
Adult Jazz Class
Bridge of Weir, 10am
Tel: 01505 690757 for further 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
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
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.
every Wednesday
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
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
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

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
Bridge of Weir Ladies
Badminton Club 80th
Birthday Dinner
63 63
Tennis For Kids Course
Tue 02 May - Tue 06 Jun 2017, 4pm-5pm
Kilmacolm Tennis Club, Castlehill Rd, Kilmacolm PA13 4EL
On 29th November 2015 the British Davis Cup Team wrote their names
in history by winning the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas for the first time in
79 years. In achieving this incredible feat of becoming world champions,
they presented everyone who loves tennis in Great Britain with a unique
opportunity to make a difference and grow the game!
Growing the game means investing in the grass roots and this means kids.
We’re passionate about helping as many kids as possible try tennis and the
Tennis for Kids campaign is just one of the ways we’re doing this.
Recommended for kids aged 6 to 8, Tennis for Kids is a 6 week FREE
coaching course, aiming to provide 20,000 children with the opportunity
to pick up a racket and be introduced to the sport in a fun and relaxed
environment.
What you can expect?
• An enthusiastic coach who has attended a specific Tennis for Kids
training course
• A free racket to use during the course and keep forever if you attend
at least 4 of the 6 sessions
• An opportunity for parents to get involved
• A follow-on offer to encourage you to keep playing at the venue after
the course is complete.
Need more information? Contact Coach Melissa Stewart on 07788 414172
or email melissastewart.tennis@gmail.com
Sporting Blog
by
Rest Days – We All Need to Take Them!
Lesley Handley
When people embark on new fitness program’s they often train as much
as they can and don’t give their body time to recover. Rest days are just
as important as training days, and everyone needs to take them.
1. Muscles need rest…
It’s not about the saying of ‘no pain no gain’, if your muscles are
becoming permanently achy then it’s time to take a day or two rest.
Sore muscles after a training session is actually the pain of muscle
damage – muscle fibers tend to stretch and break during exercise
and these fibers then need time to repair and grow allowing them to
develop/strengthen and reduce further breakage over time.
2. Prevent injuries…
There is only so much that the body can take within training and often
injuries can come about simply by over use of certain muscles or
muscle groups. A great example of this is shin splints; this injury is
common in new runners who go from doing very little to trying to run
every day and shin splints are often the result – the cure for them…
REST!
On Monday 27th March eleven ladies of Bridge of
Weir Ladies Badminton Club sat down to dinner at
Ristorante Amaretto, Bridge of Weir for the club’s
postponed 80th Birthday dinner.
Inaugurated in the Summer of ’35 and comprising
ladies from the mixed club and new members,
Bridge of Weir Ladies Badminton Club commenced play on 7th October of
that year. The annual subscription was 2/6 with a payment of 9d per night
to cover the cost of shuttlecocks.
The club is still going strong 80 years on playing on Monday evenings in
the Cargill Hall from September to
March.
After an enjoyable meal there
was a sweet treat in the form of a
Badminton Racquet Birthday cake,
made by Mrs Dickson’s Kitchen,
complete with shuttlecock of
course.
3. Stronger immune system…
Exercise is a great way to improve the immune system, which also
plays a big role in recovery. However too much exercise and no time
for the body to recover has the opposite effect on the immune system.
Feeling run-down, or colds hanging around longer than usual often
indicates that some rest is required to let the body catch back up on
itself.
4. Improved Performance…
Yes… believe it or not a few days rest can help improve your
performance. Some people don’t want to miss a couple of days in
case it affects the progress they have already made, but for most
people it generally takes 1 or 2 weeks of no activity before they notice
a change in their performance.
Lesley
For more information on nutrition or Personal Training contact me on 0773 627 4925 or email Lesley@fitsmartfitness.co.uk

64 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
SITUATIONS VACANT
TRADES AND SERVICES
MISCELLANEOUS
BUSINESS
HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY
MUSIC TUITION
CHILDCARE
Houston registered childminders.
For an informal chat to fi nd
your best childcare, call
Elizabeth Waddell T: 614925
Kilmacolm/Quarriers area
registered childminders. P/
time or F/time vacancies for
u-5’s and after school. T:
873839.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
65 65
PROPERTY
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 fi rst 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 confident 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:
Sunday services 10.30am,
Junior Church & Youth Church,
hearing aid loop system. For
more information on activities
and events find us online –
stmacharsranfurlychurch.org.
uk or Facebook. Come along
– all welcome.
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.
HOLIDAY HOMES
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
HOUSTON
Houston and Killellan Kirk Church of
Scotland Charity no SC 012822.
During the Ministerial vacancy
the Rev. Ian Bell will conduct our
services. 2nd, 9th, 23rd & 30th
April - 11am Morning Worship.
Holy Week services. 10th to
14th April all services begin
at 7.30pm. Monday - Houston
and Killellan Kirk. Tuesday -
Joint service with Linwood at
Houston. Wednesday - Joint
service with Linwood at Linwood
Parish Church. Thursday
(Maundy) The Sacrament of
the last Supper. Good Friday.
Houston and Killellan Kirk. 16th
April 8am early morning Easter
Service (bacon butty breakfast
afterwards) - 11am Morning
Worship including children’s
Easter Egg Hunt.
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
June ‘17 Issue:
• Deadline: 19 May
• Delivery: 02 June
July ‘17 Issue:
• Deadline: 16 June
• Delivery: 30 June
KILBARCHAN
Kilbarchan Parish Church in May:
Services continue at 11am
each Sunday throughout May,
conducted by Rev. Stephen
Smith. Sunday School and the
crèche continue to meet in the
large hall from 10.45am each
week and refreshments will
be served after the service as
usual. All welcome to any or all
of these services. For further
information about the church
and the organisations, please
visit Kilbarchan Kirk online:
www.kilbarchan-kirk.btck.co.uk
KILMACOLM
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.
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. Night Kirk,
a short reflective service 1st
Sunday each month at 6pm.
Sòlas Bereavement Group, 2nd
Thursday each month at 6:30pm
in Kidston Hall. Thursday 6th
April Sòlas Bereavement Group
meets in the Kidston Hall from
6:30 – 8:30pm. Mon 10 – Fri
14 April – Holy week services;
venue to be confi rmed. Sunday
16th April – Easter Sunday:
9:30am: Holy Communion at
Knapps Loch; 10:30am: coffee,
tea, hot cross buns; 11am:
Easter Worship with celebration
of Holy Communion.
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.
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 6:30 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!
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 ST Machars Church Hall 1st Tuesday
April 7pm. Bridge of Weir Primary School 1st Tuesday
May and June 7pm (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 7 - Johnstone South, Elderslie & Howwood: Cllrs
John Caldwell, John Hood, Stephen McGee and
Iain McMillan
Ward 8 - Johnstone (North), Kilbarchan & Lochwinnoch:
Councillors Derek Bibby, Andy Doig and Christopher
Gilmour
Ward 9 - Houston, Crosslee, Brookfi eld & Linwood:
Councillors Stuart Clark, Audrey Doig, Anne Hall
and Allan Noon
Ward 10 - Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank:
Councillors Maria Brown, Mike Holmes and James
Maclaren
INVERCLYDE COUNCIL: www.inverclyde.gov.uk
Ward 1 - Inverclyde East (P.Glasgow, Kilmacolm and
Quarriers Village): Cllrs David Wilson, Jim MacLeod,
Stephen McCabe and James McColgan

66 the advertizer t: 01505 613340 07731 923970 e: info@advertizer.co.uk
ITEMS FOR SALE
BABY EQUIPMENT
Phillips AVENT combined baby
food steamer and blender
with instructions and recipe
booklet. Good cond. Smoke
free, pet free home. £30. Tel:
01505 672175.
Tidlo wooden activity walker.
Exc. cond. £18. Tel: 01505
672175.
Phillips AVENT microwave
bottle steriliser. Exc. cond.,
with instructions. Smoke free,
pet free home. £5. Tel: 01505
672175.
Mamas & Papas high chair with
animal design. Feeding Tray,
under storage basket. 4 way
harness. Used in good cond.
£40. Tel: 07946 008496.
Mamas & Papas high chair with
pear design. Feeding Tray,
under storage basket. 4 way
harness. Used in good cond.
£40. Tel: 07946 008496.
Fisher Price rocker seat baby to
toddler - Rainforest pattern x
2. Seat lies back for smaller
baby and rocks. Playtoy
goes across seat. Suits new
baby to 2 years. Used only
at grandparents house. Very
good condition. £20. Tel:
07946 008498.
Cosatto Hello Dolly Twin
Buggy with dolly design on
hoods and matching cosy
toes fl eeced lined. Matching
bottle carriers (never used).
Double Raincover. Pram has
double under storage basket.
Folds easy like umbrella style.
Used only at grandparents
house. VGC. £75. Tel: 07946
008496.
Chicco Polly High Chair.
Sturdy, foldable and compact.
Large tray with easy-clean
detachable cover. Adjustable
back-rest and height, so
fits at table when child is
older. VGC. £30. Tel:07765
550180
Mamas and Papas cream baby
bath. Exc. cond. Smoke
free home. £5. Tel: 01505
672175.
Silver Cross Surf baby foot snug
in grey. Exc. cond. Smoke
free home. £15. Tel: 01505
672175.
Cosatto 3Sixti pear high chair.
Turns through 360 degrees,
can be adjusted to any
height with removable tray
section. Good cond. and
full instructions. Smoke
free home. £70. Tel: 01505
672175.
CLOTHES & SHOES
Jacques Vert Blue & White
Dress & Jacket - size 16 -
worn once - also a hat. Cost
£300 - sell £70. Tel: 07961
588820.
Mid grey M&S suit. Trousers
36/31” Jacket 40”. Wool mix.
Worn twice. £50. Tel: 01505
614895.
Marks and Spencer men’s
charcoal suit. Chest 48ins,
waist 38ins, inside leg 31ins.
Wool rich blend, exc. cond.
£20. Tel: 01505 672175.
Dr. Martens gent’s safety shoes,
FS57 Air-Wair, black leather,
size 9. Never worn, still
in box. £25. Tel: 01505
690247.
Women’s Nike running jacket.
Lightweight, black, size
medium. Exc. cond. £20.
Tel: 01505 672175.
Men’s Dehavilland black coat.
Wool/cashmere mix, hardly
worn in exc. cond. Chest
48ins. £50 (cost £120 new).
Tel: 01505 672175.
Adidas Gazelle Originals Ladies
Trainers UK6.5 - purply pink.
Only been worn a few times.
Exc. cond. in original box.
£30. Tel: 01505 615055.
Men’s full length Dannimac
raincoat in grey. Removable
lining. Large. Good cond.
£20. Tel: 01505 672175.
Men’s M&S waxed casual coat
in dark green. Large. As new.
£50. Tel: 01505 672175.
Nike Air Max 90 Mesh GS
Boys Trainers UK5.5 - White
mono leather. Only been
worn twice. Exc. cond. in
original box. £30. Tel: 01505
615055.
A pair of Celine Sandals size
38 as new. £50. Tel: 07796
478167.
Purple peplum-style maternity
dress by Seraphine in size 14.
£8. Tel: 01505 672175.
Adidas Superstars 2 Ladies
Trainers UK6 – holographic
silver. Only been worn a
few times. Exc. cond. in
original box. £30. Tel: 01505
615055.
HOUSEHOLD & GARDEN
Camp beds, folding in good
cond. £10 each or lot of 5
- £40. Tel: 07977 986526 or
01505 872192.
Wall mounting mirror - Black
metal framed rear mounting
points. (W) 82cm, (H) 105cm.
Good cond. £25. Tel: 01475
540714.
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. Exc.
cond., smoke free home.
£170. Tel: 01505 672175.
Art Deco mirror 66.5cm wide x
39cm high. £10. Tel: 01505
672175.
Bosch under counter fridge,
with pull out shelves, VGC,
buyer uplifts. £70. Tel: 07964
993353.
Superking size cream
headboard. £30. Two single
divan beds with storage, with
two single mattress - excellent
condition. £25 each. Beds
can be connected to make
a super king size width. Tel:
07884 975648.
White bathroom sink and
pedestal with taps. Approx.
58cm (W) x 46cm (D), bowl is
15cm (D). Pedestal 65cm (H).
Used but good cond. £20.
Tel: 01505 672175.
Mirrored wooden bathroom
cabinet. Approx. 60cm (W) x
65cm (H) x 13cm (D). Three
shelves. Used but good cond.
£20. Tel: 01505 672175.
One-off, eye-catching, modern
stylish Italian designed
glass and marble coffee
table approx. 2’ high x 2’
square with solid glass top
set in quarried matte marble
geometric pediment. £199
ono. Tel: 07738 955232.
Unique Italian marble and glass
display shelves approx. 3’ high
x 4’ wide with solid quarried
matte marble uprights and
two heavy glass shelves in
superb cond. £199 ono. Tel:
07738 955232.
Modern design Headboard -
single bed. Mocha colour
suedette. Never used. £15.
Tel: 01505 690247.
LEC Fridge Freezer - 48.5” (H).
£50. Tel: 01505 705731.
Highly polished, graduated nest
of square side tables with
slender curved cabriole legs
and acorn pattern beading in
VGC for age. £90 ono. Tel:
07738 955232.
Pine slatted wooden bed frame
- 4’6” (W). With mattress.
Nearly new. £100 ono. Tel:
07900 477277.
Pair of cream fabric-covered
column lamps (approx 115cm
tall and 15cm in diameter).
Ideal for bedside. Good
condition, smoke free home.
£30. Tel: 01505 672175.
IKEA Large Sofa Bed, pull out
bed is full double bed size.
Seats 3. Exc. cond. Colour
Ecru with four matching
cushions, includes a brand
new full set of covers. (W)
200 cm, (D) 110 cm and
extended length is 250cm.
£85. Tel: 01475 540714.
Farmhouse solid pine
rectangular table with 6
matching high back chairs.
Used in VGC. £475. Tel:
07946 008496.
Lawnmower - 140cc MacAllisterself
propelled, petrol driven.
Blade size 46cm. Just over 2
years old. VGC. £100. Tel:
01475 540752.
ELECTRICAL & GAS
Panasonic portable stereo
CD system in silver. Good
condition, with instructions
and remote control. £15. Tel:
01505 672175.
Black Sanyo modular music
centre featuring FM tuner
with pre-set station facility,
indoor table-top aerial, twin
cassette decks, CD player
and separate speakers all in
exc. cond. delivering powerful
yet mellow, full tone. £50 ono.
Tel: 07738 955232.
PETS
Fish tank in pine cabinet 2 years
old, VGC. £50. Tel: 07939
121239.
SPORTS
Moda minor Junior Road bike
24” wheel. Good cond. £150.
Tel: 01505 614121
Ladies Golf Bag - Pink. Hardly
used. £20 ono. Pink Head
Covers £5 ono. Tel: 07900
477277.
Dinesse large Matt black ski/
snowboard helmet. Good
cond. £20. Tel: 01505
672175
US Kids golf stand bag set. Suit
height 46 - 49”. £40 ono. Tel:
01505 341206
Powacaddy, battery & charger.
VGC. Any reasonable offer
will be donated to Beatson
Cancer. Tel: 01505 872717
Exercise bike. 18kg fl ywheel,
3pc crank system, heart rate
monitor, adjustable resistance.
Fab cond., only used a couple
of times. Fully assembled,
buyer to collect. £115 ono
Tel: 01505 871320
TOYS/GAMES/DVD
Playmobil City Life Vet Clinic.
Unwanted gift - box still
sealed. £10. Tel: 07900
477277.
Wooden toy ark with animals.
Good cond., smoke free
home. £12. Tel: 01505
672175.
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.
Fisher Price rainforest jungle
gym. Exc. cond. with
instructions. Smoke free, pet
free home. £15. Tel: 01505
672175.
Plastic toddler seat for child’s
swing with ropes attached,
just no frame. VGC. £5. Tel:
01505 672175.
OTHER ITEMS
Brand new steel car wheel
6JX15H2 and new Jinyu tyre
185/60 R15. Stored as spare
wheel only. £80. Tel: 07736
067169.
Gents Watch - Citizen Eco
Drive. Smart watch in exc.
cond. with black face, silver
colour hands/numerals
and day/date calendar. In
original box with instructions.
Purchased £89, sell for £28.
Tel: 01505 690247.
Invacare wheelchair as new.
Large wheels, black in colour.
Generous seating area. £100.
Tel: 07976 294460.
2 new tyres 255 35 18 dunlop
sport maxx. £200. Tel: 07885
100077.
Drum Kit. Five piece full size
adult. Reasonable cond.,
bass drum pedal missing and
snare stand a bit wonky. £30.
Tel: 07788 111557.
Galvanised steel ash bucket 10
litre. £4. Tel: 01505 672175.
Microsoft wireless keyboard,
mouse and USB desktop
receiver in black and silver.
Exc. cond. £15. Tel: 01505
672175.
2 Girls Dawes Venus 20” wheel
bikes, 6 gears, pale blue
(around age 6 plus). Exc.
cond. £50 each (twins). Tel:
01505 844933.
2 Britax Isofix Romer car seats
(4 - 11 years) Black/grey.
VGC. £20 each. Tel: 01505
844933.
Cycle carrier for bikes on rear of
car. Suitable for saloon, hatch
and estate cars, adjustable
mounting fittings, webbing
straps with grips for edges
of boot/tailgate. Folds flat
for storage. £15. Tel: 01475
540714.
Pair of car booster seats, one is
dark blue/cream and the other
is grey/pink. Both seats are
universal 15 - 36 kg (3 to 11
years) and in good cond. £6.
Tel: 01475 540714.
Garmin nuvi 2445LMT 4.3” Sat
Nav with UK and Western
Europe Maps.
Includes
software, Car charging/
comms lead, USB lead and
screen and air vent mounts.
Maps updated from Garmin
Website 11th April 2017. £30.
Tel: 01475 540714.
Visorblade Supertooth
II Universal Bluetooth
Handsfree Kit. Includes
mains charger, car charger
and a visor mounting clip.
This unit lasts for weeks on a
single charge and is easy to
set up and use in car. £15.
Tel: 01475 540714.
Blaney Trouper 200cc rear
wheel drive quad bike. Little
used, original tyres. £350
ono. Tel: 01505 873177.
WANTED ITEMS
Old records Wanted 45`s &
LP`s CASH Paid. Tel: 07710
777571.
Local lily grower requires the use
of a greenhouse/polytunnel in
Kilmacolm area in return for
light gardening duties. Tel:
Vince 01505 872082.
Cash paid for Music CDs (a few
or a lot). Tel: 0141 882 5594
or 07765 115347.
FREE CYCLE
Two glass doors from (now
demolished) bedroom
cupboard. 67” / 170 cm long
x 30” / 76 cm wide. Free if
uplifted. Tel: 01505 871261.
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.

@GryffeAds www.advertizer.co.uk may 2017
67 67
ADVERTIZERS - A TO Z
Accountants & Financial
Affluent Financial Planning . . 24
Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15
Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15
GMH Chartered Accountants . . 26
Stewart Independent Financial . . 1
Architectural Services
Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7
Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Automotive Services
AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1
ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . 24
Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31
Bathrooms
Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7
Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11
G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6
Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17
Bedrooms
Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13
Blacksmith & Metalwork
McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 43
Tennamast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Building Services
A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5
B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5
BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6
Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3
DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2
James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 43
JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11
KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17
M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3
MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3
Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 45
RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rukeri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2
SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14
Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4
Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55
Business Services
Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 16
Ren Chamber of Comm . . . . . . . . 27
Care Services & Homes
Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 13
Catering
Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 15
Cleaning & PowerWash
CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 17
Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14
Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,7
Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6
KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 41
Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5
BY CATEGORY
Coffee Shops
Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16
Computer, IT & Web
ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1
Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 16
Driveways
A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
Driving Instructors
AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14
Education
St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57
Electricians
Delta Electrical Services . . 33
GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3
MAS Electrical & Security . . 2
Entertainment
Sandy Cunningham Musician . . 20
Fencing
Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 43
Tennamast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Firewood & Logs
LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 45
W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Funeral Services
Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 39
John Roach Funeral Directors . . 2
Garage Doors & Gates
Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
Garden Service & Design
3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 48
A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 50
Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 50
Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 48
Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7
Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 51
DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 48
Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 48
I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2
J S Montgomery Ltd . . . . . . . . . 53
M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 53
MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 53
W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51
West of Scotland Landscape . . 53
Gas & Heating Services
A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15
C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 33
GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12
Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1
Glazier
1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3
Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5
JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 3
TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Hairdressers & Barbers
Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 39
Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 39
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
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
Kilmacolm: Newsagent, Pieri’s, Cross Café,
Gibb Stuart, Cargill Centre, Library
Langbank: Finlaystone Visitor Centre
Lochwinnoch: Keystore, McKillop Centre, Library, Castle
Semple Centre, Newsagent
Health, Beauty & Fitness
Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 39
Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 7
Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . bk
Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 41
Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13
LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10
NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 37
Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 39
Home Hardware
Gibb Stuart . . . . 14,15,25
Home Improvements
Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5
Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7
Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk
Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 18
Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Home Interiors
Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5
Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13
Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 45
The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3
Home Security
Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 33
Joiners
A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5
CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 33
James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 43
JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11
JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3
McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14
RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2
SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14
Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4
TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 17
Kilt & Dress Hire
Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 12
Kitchens
Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7
Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13
G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6
Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17
JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11
Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4
Leisure & Recreation
Kilbarchan Agricultural Societ . . 21
Kilmacolm Show . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Locksmiths
Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Painters & Decorators
A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15
Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 7
David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3
Ian Livingston Decorating . . 19
James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3
John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Pest Control
RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 7
Pet Services & Training
Bridge of Weir Dog Walking . . 46
Husse Pet Food . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 46
Strathgryffe Dog Walks . . . . . 47
Photographers
Little Studio Kilmacolm . . . . 55
Plasterers
Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 16
Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 4
James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 43
Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17
Plumbers
A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15
C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 33
G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6
GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12
JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Property, Sales & Let
Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 29
Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1
Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bk
Removals
@ease Removals & Transport . . 41
The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Restaurant & Bars
Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16
Little Hanoi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Retail
Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5
Gibb Stuart . . . . 14,15,25
The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3
R o o fi n g
Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6
Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 16
Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3
Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6
I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2
KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17
MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3
RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2
SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14
Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55
Sale/Want
Annual Subscription L Green . .
Solicitors
Affinity Family Law Experts . . 8
Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1
Special Occasions
ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
Sandy Cunningham Musician . . 20
Storage
Store First Glasgow . . . . . . . . 35
Stoves
Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 45
Taxis & Minicoach hire
ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31
Minicoach Tours Scotland Ltd . . 12
Tiling
Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15
Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Travel Agents
Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Tree Surgeon
Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 48
LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51
TV & Satellite
Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 33
Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3
Upholstery Services
Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5
Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14
Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,7
P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 2
Window Cleaners
DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 17
Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,7
Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6
Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14
Window, Consv & Repair
1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3
Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk
JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 3
TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
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.
@ease Removals & Transport . . 41
1on1 Double Glazing . . . . . . . . 3
3D Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . 48
A Gallagher Painter&Decorator . . 15
A O’Hare - Building Services . . 5
A Peebles Landscape Contractor . . 50
A&G Driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
A&J Plumbing Heating & Gas . . 15
ABC Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
Affinity Family Law Experts . . 8
Affluent Financial Planning . . 24
Affordable Luxuries . . . . . . . 7
AK Vehicle Rental . . . . . . . . . 1
AL Stewart - Driving Instruct . . 14
Alvic Sliding Wardrobes Ltd . . 5
Annual Subscription L Green . .
Apple Tree Garden Design . . . 50
ARC Fleet Services . . . . . . . . . 24
Arco Locksmith . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Arlene Mitchell Hair & Beauty . . 39
B Hughes Builders - Houston . . 5
Bathroom Solutions by MPH . . 11
Baytree Interiors . . . . . . . . . 5
Beaton Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Bernie’s Cafe Deli . . . . . . . . . 16
Bluewater Dental . . . . . . . . . . 7
Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
BOW Stone Works . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Branch Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Bridge of Weir Dog Walking . . 46
Bridge of Weir Roofing . . . . . 6
Brookfield Alarms Ltd . . . . . . 33
Bryan Slaven Slater & Plaster . . 16
Burndale Workshop . . . . . . . . . 13
C Hunter Plumbing Heating Gas . . 33
Care & Repair Gardening Servci . . 48
Casa Homes & Gardens Architect . . 7
Charlie Orr Plasterer . . . . . . 4
Cheetham & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
CLA Accountancy Services Ltd . . 15
CleanDryCarpets . . . . . . . . . . . 2
CLH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Clippens Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 3
Cloudy2Clear Windows Glasgow . . 5
Cochran Dickie Estate Agents . . 29
ColCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Colin Docherty Painter Decorat . . 7
Collins Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Come Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Computer Repairs . . . . . . . . . . 1
Confident Care Ltd . . . . . . . . . 13
Conservatory Conversions . . . Bk
Corum Property . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Craig Kennedy Gardening . . . . 51
David Kennedy Decorator . . . . 3
Delta Electrical Services . . 33
Derek McBride Aerials . . . . . . 33
DJD Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
DJY Joinery Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 33
DMG Garden Services . . . . . . . . 48
DS Cleaning (Windows) . . . . . . 17
Eclipse deep clean . . . . . . . . . 14
Elliott Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Fastclean Scotland . . . . . . . . . 15,7
Fergusons CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Ferringtons Hypnotherapy . . . bk
Fiona Christie Accounting Serv . . 15
G Woods Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . 6
Gadds Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Garden Services . . . . . . . . . . . 51
GasMan Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Gibb Stuart . . . . 14,15,25
Glenmoss Landscapes . . . . . . . . 48
GMH Chartered Accountants . . 26
Gordon James Ceramic Tiler . . 15
Grid Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Gryffe Garage Motor Engineers . . 31
Gryffe Roofing Services . . . . 6
Hames Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Healing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Henderson’s Kilts . . . . . . . . . 12
Husse Pet Food . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
I & J Building & Roofing Serv . . 2
I D Plumbing & Heating . . . . . 12
Ian Livingston Decorating . . 19
Instyle Kitchens & Bathrooms . . 17
J S Montgomery Ltd . . . . . . . . . 53
James Kerr Joiner . . . . . . . . . 43
James Martin - Painter & Decor . . 3
JayBee Double Glazing Repairs . . 3
JBC Joiners and Builders . . . 11
JDPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
John H Barney . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
John Roach Funeral Directors . . 2
Johnstone TOA Taxi Co . . . . . . 31
Karen Rankin Catering . . . . . . 15
KC Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Kieran Turner Aerial&Satellite . . 3
Kilbarchan Agricultural Societ . . 21
Kilbarchan Chiropodists . . . . 41
Kilbarchan Dental Practice . . 13
Kilellan Roofing . . . . . . . . . . 17
Kilmacolm Show . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Kingsley Wood & Co Solicitors . . 1
Lamont Electricians . . . . . . . . 3
Laptop and PC Repairs . . . . . . 16
LaserLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Lind Letting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bk
Little Hanoi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Little Studio Kilmacolm . . . . 55
LJX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
M Addison Joiners & Builders . . 3
M&E Painters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
M&M Garden Services . . . . . . . . 53
MAS Electrical & Security . . 2
Matthews Cleaning Services . . 14
MBS Roofing & Building Contrac . . 3
McGowan Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . 14
McLaughlan Metal Fabrication . . 43
Minicoach Tours Scotland Ltd . . 12
MJ Lawnmowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
New Vision Opticians . . . . . . . 10
Nix Hairdressing . . . . . . . . . . 39
NLP Positive Changes . . . . . . . 37
Nutech Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Old Mill Chimneys . . . . . . . . . 45
Omni Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . 41
Orchard Flooring . . . . . . . . . . 18
P Thomson Upholstery . . . . . . . 2
PetVets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Phoenix Gas Services . . . . . . . 1
Platinum Cleaning Services . . 5
Powerdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bk
R Williams Tree Surgeon & Grou . . 53
Ranfurly Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
RED Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . 7
Ren Chamber of Comm . . . . . . . . 27
Rent A Bloke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
RPH Joinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rukeri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sandy Cunningham Musician . . 20
Scott Russell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Shower Expert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Smart Dog Grooming . . . . . . . . . 46
SMG Roofing & Building Contrac . . 2
Sole Solutions Podiatry . . . . 39
St Columba’s School . . . . . . . . 57
Stewart Independent Financial . . 1
Store First Glasgow . . . . . . . . 35
Strathgryffe Dog Walks . . . . . 47
SW Scott - Joiners & Builders . . 14
Taylor Made Joinery . . . . . . . . 4
TD Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Tennamast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
The Furniture Barn . . . . . . . . . 3
The Right Move . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Thomas McMaster & Son Ltd . . 55
Travel Actually . . . . . . . . . . . 3
W B Smith & Son . . . . . . . . . . . 51
West of Scotland Landscape . . 53
Woodburn & Beattie Joiners . . 17
contact us
The Gryffe Advertizer
Neva Place, Bridge of Weir PA11 3PN
t: 01505 613340 or e: info@advertizer.co.uk
For more information please call us on 01505 613340
WhatsApp 07731 923970
or check our website at www.advertizer.co.uk
Next Issue: (#273) June ‘17
Deadline: Friday 19 May

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