InCommerce Dunbartonshire Issue 15

THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

• Chamber affiliation deal – Page 5 • Lomondgate sculpture unveiled – Page 11 • we are sailing – Pages 17-22

ISSUE 15 • SUMMER 2012

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Contents From the Editor......................... 4 Glasgow Bid for Youth Olympics......................... 4 Chamber Affiliation Deal Sealed.............................. 5 Business is Good for Scotland................................... 5 News in Brief.......................... 6-8

Photo by Green Highlander Images.

welcome

Lomondgate Stag Sculpture...... 11 Loch Lomond Marketing Boost.. 12 New Solas Energy Service........ 12 Money Matters........................ 13 Apprentices and Jobs............... 14

OUR businesses are experiencing mixed fortunes at present with growth in some areas like manufacturing, but not in others, like construction, which is slowing down. Tourism, which is so important in Dunbartonshire, is just about holding its own.

There’s no doubt it is tough. That’s why continuing to connect and be connected with Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce has never been so important or beneficial.

Your chamber network exists to help you grow your business by providing advice, training, mentoring, leadership and much more.

Dunbartonshire chamber has not only significantly enhanced its member benefits package, it is also engaging with partner and other organisations in the private, public and voluntary/third sector.

The chamber itself is part of a bigger network through its association with Scottish and British Chambers. The Business is Good for Scotland initiative is part of a nationwide campaign to raise the profile of business and make the wider community aware of who we are and what we do.

So what can YOU do?

You can make sure you get the most from your member benefits, that you are aware of the help that is available for business in your area and inform the chamber of any barriers to success at local or national level.

You can get involved by attending our events where you have the chance to exchange thoughts and ideas with likeminded business people.

The chamber movement has a very strong influence at local and national level both in Holyrood and at Westminster. It is essential you communicate with us so that we know what issues to raise on your behalf.

In these challenging times the business community must use all its expertise and networking connections to safeguard the future of individual businesses as well as the communities and livelihoods which depend on them.

Your chamber wants nothing more than a strong vibrant economy with sustainable long term employment - that IS good for business.

Olympian Luke Patience Home... 16 Greenock’s Historic Dock... 17-19 Clyde Cruising Club – Scottish Series......................... 21 Portavadie Marina................... 22 The Sport of Kings.............. 26-27 Crowds Flock to Scottish Grand National...................... 28 Huge TV Race Ratings.............. 29 Star Spotting at Ayr Racecourse....................... 30 Independent Schools............... 32 Lomond School.................. 33-34 Budget Briefing........................ 37 Iomart Free Footy Kit................ 39 University Support for Business.. 40 PSYBT Gathering..................... 40 Events Diary............................ 41 Kirky Charity Fundraiser........... 41 New members.................... 44-45 Cover image of sculptor Andy Scott at Lomondgate Business Park by Ian Jacob Photography. www.presspix.biz

Gary Groves President Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.incommerce.biz

For advertising contact D-Tech: T: 01389 736000 E: sales@incommerce.biz For editorial contact editor: June Hyslop T: 07944 265126 E: editor@incommerce.biz Publisher: D-Tech Distribution: D-Tech Distribution INCOMMERCE is published by D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd., Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 2RE. Telephone 01389 736000. Fax 01389 736002.

E-mail: info@dtechuk.com.

Edited by June Hyslop, Copywrite Editorial, Dumbarton.

Telephone 07944 265126.

E-mail: editor@incommerce.biz.

INCOMMERCE is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed nor copied wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers. The proprietors of this magazine are publishers and not agents, or sub-agents of those who advertise therein.

They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information contained within this publication.

The views expressed by authors of articles published in this magazine are solely those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, the publisher or the directors, shareholders and/or employees of D-Tech Graphic Design & Print Ltd or Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

FROM THE

EDITOR UNEMPLOYMENT is a scourge which is particularly damaging for young people.

Any initiative which helps to address joblessness is welcome as it is vital for young people have opportunities to develop and grow – to be involved in generating wealth for themselves and the economy.

The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) does a great job of helping young entrepreneurs set up and run their own businesses with financial and practical support and mentoring. But working for yourself is not for everyone, nor is attending university or college.

Modern Apprenticeships offer work-based training which enables young people to earn as they learn and can address skills shortages in the marketplace which makes a follow-on job more likely.

MOVES to bring the 2018 Youth Olympic Games to Glasgow took a step forward at a key meeting in Switzerland in April, writes Mike Haggerty.

The Glasgow bid team – a partnership between Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and the British Olympic Association (BOA) – was invited to Lausanne by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for a speciallyconvened workshop for candidate cities.

The IOC will produce a shortlist in February next year before announcing the winning host city in summer 2013.

Glasgow’s bid for what is one of the major 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games legacy initiatives was endorsed by the British Olympic Association in February.

I began my career as an apprentice journalist on a local newspaper which also involved studying on block release at what was then Napier College.

Scotland faces tough competition from five other cities – Buenos Aires in Argentina, Medellin in Colombia, Guadalajara in Mexico, Poznan in Poland and Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

It set me on a career path which has stood me in good stead throughout my working life and which eventually resulted in me attending university as a mature student – something I could never have imagined myself doing as a teenager.

The inaugural summer Youth Olympic Games took place in Singapore in 2010, while Innsbruck, Austria, hosted the first winter Youth Games earlier this year. The 2014 summer Youth Games will be in Nanjing, China.

I know from personal experience the value of an apprenticeship, the opportunity it represents and the doors it can open.

I was fortunate enough to attend the Singapore Games and, if successful, Glasgow can expect to host a vibrant event with some 5,000 accredited participants, including athletes, coaches and officials.

That is why I welcome both the commitment by West Dunbartonshire Council to create a total of 250 apprenticeships and East Dunbartonshire, MP Jo Swinson’s call for businesses to find 100 jobs or training opportunities in 100 days.

There has been criticism of the pay levels for Modern Apprenticeships and I do understand trade union concerns. In an ideal world apprentices would be paid more. In an ideal world no one who was able to work would be unemployed.

The world we live in is not ideal, current economic conditions are not ideal. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, we need to ensure young people have the chance to get on in life - to do that they need to have a way to earn a living and the prospect of a productive working life.

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Glasgow Bids for 2018 Youth Olympic Games

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

That is about one-third the size of the mammoth summer Olympic Games – and slightly larger than the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Apart from providing a platform for emerging Olympic talent, hosting an event like this would generate further business and tourism opportunities in and around Glasgow and the west of Scotland.

Commenting on the bid, Shona Robison MSP, Scotland’s Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport said: “Hosting the Youth Olympic Games is an exciting prospect and we will now work alongside the BOA and our partners to ensure the bid is successful.”

Photo by Murdoch Ferguson - Ferguson Imaging www.ferguson-imaging.com

Business is Good for Scotland SCOTTISH Chambers of Commerce (SCC) has launched a ‘Business is Good for Scotland’ campaign for 2012.

JOINING FORCES: Chamber Presidents Tom Johnston of Renfrewshire and Gary Groves of Dunbartonshire.

Chamber Affiliation Deal Sealed DUNBARTONSHIRE Chamber of Commerce signed an affiliation deal with award-winning Renfrewshire Chamber on May 1.

It has called on its members to highlight the work of the chamber movement by using specially designed logos with the slogan to promote the message to decision-makers, opinion formers and the public.

Liz Cameron, SCC chief executive, said: “We are already full-time promoters of the good that business does in Scotland - now we will be explicit about that message.

Renfrewshire President Tom Johnston welcomed everyone to a special joint meeting at the Erskine Bridge Hotel and said he was looking forward to working together.

“’Business is Good for Scotland’ will run as a theme through SCC events, communications and policy work throughout 2012, as we emphasise the contribution that businesses – our members – make.”

The Renfrewshire team was introduced by its chief Executive Bob Davidson who highlighted some key information about his chamber.

SCC has adapted the message from a UK-wide British Chambers initiative.

Renfrewshire has 550 members and, in the last year, organised 100 events, processed 13,000 export documents for 70 clients and provided mentoring to 150 businesses.

It has 11 premier partners and, in 2011, won an award for its mobile phone app, reached the final of the chamber of the year competition, and received British Chambers of Commerce Excellence Accreditation.

This year it is a finalist in the Renfrewshire Quality Awards 2012 - Wealthier and Fairer category.

Dunbartonshire Chamber, while not quite as big as Renfrewshire, was ambitious and determined to grow, explained its President Gary Groves: “We are currently in a development stage at present having gone through a strategic review and appointed a new board. I am confident we have a bright future.”

“The arrangement with Renfrewshire gives our member access to a whole range of new and valuable member benefits.”

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Photo courtesy of New Moss Prison.

Photo courtesy of East Dunbartonshire Council.

news in brief…

Deputy Lord Lieutenant Role for Ellen

Chamber Directors Visit Low Moss Prison

A well-known and respected council employee has been made a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire.

MEMBERS of Glasgow and Dunbartonshire Chambers of Commerce visited the new multi-million pound Low Moss Prison development at Bishopbriggs in April.

Ellen Gibson, member services team leader with East Dunbartonshire Council since 1996, said she was ‘absolutely surprised, honoured and delighted’ to be asked to act as one of Her Majesty The Queen’s representatives in the area.

Chamber president Gary Groves and immediate past president Robert Wilson attended a closed meeting of the Ex-Offenders Advisory Group of Glasgow Chamber.

“I was very happy to accept when I was asked if I would take it on,” she added.

Ellen, who has worked with the council in a number of roles for 40 years, will deputise for the Lord Lieutenant at various events and official functions.

Duties include delivering 100th birthday and anniversary good wishes from The Queen, participating in citizenship and remembrance ceremonies and acting as the LordLieutenant’s ‘eyes and ears’ in the county.

There are currently 22 deputies, 10 of whom are women.

Lord Lieutenant, Mike Gregory, OBE, said: “I am delighted to welcome Ellen Gibson as my newest Deputy Lieutenant for the Lieutenancy of Dunbartonshire. She joins a very active and able team who help me perform numerous duties throughout the year.”

6

The group, which is headed up by Fiona Mackay, a council director with Glasgow Chamber, aims to develop and improve employment outcomes for offenders and contribute to a reduction in re-offending in the city.

It will shortly make recommendations to the Scottish Parliament after a motion of support was endorsed by 30 MSPs. A previous visit to Barlinnie Prison as part of a Behind-the-Scenes series of events at Glasgow Chamber led to a number of volunteers agreeing to help the prisons by providing mock employment interviews for inmates prior to their release.

Low Moss has five wings of accommodation plus workshops, a library, exercise areas and classrooms. It also had an indoor modern gym giving prisoners access to team sports such as five-a-side football and basketball.

The group saw prisoners working in various areas including bricklaying, decorating, woodwork, plumbing, recycling plant, hairdressing, laundry and in the kitchens.

The new facility at Low Moss currently houses around 400 male prisoners and has capacity to accommodate 700. All cells have TV and a basic toilet area plus modifications for disabled prisoners.

As part of their remit the group will visit other facilities including Cornton Vale in Stirling which houses female offenders.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

ParkLife Launches Local Discount Deals Site

Virgin Active Invests in Milngavie Health Club

PARKLIFE magazine has launched a local discount deals site to fill what it sees as a gap in the market.

VIRGIN Active has embarked on an ambitious programme of ongoing investment at what was previously Esporta in Milngavie.

The idea is to link local businesses with local customers enabling them to specifically target the promotion of their products and services.

Photo by Paul Saunders Photography.

Photo courtesy of Virgin Active Milngavie.

The club has seen some changes since becoming part of the Virgin Active Health Club Group – the largest of its kind in the UK.

WARM WELCOME: Aileen Anderson, member relations assistant at Virgin Active in Milngavie.

PARKLIFE DEALS TEAM: Lisa Sanderson, editor; Katrina Gardner, director; Heather Munro, accounts and Lissa McGinn, distribution.

The deals will offer at least 50 per cent off the usual price with buyers able to purchase and receive their offers within minutes. People who register online can also refer friends and receive benefits too.

ParkLife director, Katrina Gardner, explained: “Although there has been a massive growth of online discount sites, we felt there was a gap in the market for really local deals.

“With our ParkLife and Stirling Life magazines database we have thousands of people who can potentially take advantage of great discounts in restaurants, shops, spas and in many more great local businesses.”

Katrina is keen to ensure that the deals work for the businesses and has promised prompt payment: “We think it will be an attractive proposition for both buyers and sellers.”

New upgraded gym-floor equipment has been installed plus innovative, market-leading kit such as ViPR® ('vitality, performance and reconditioning' equipment) and TRX Suspension Training.

The outdoor tennis courts are being improved to bring them into line with their professional-standard indoor equivalents and there are there are plans to add a series of new group exercise classes to the 80 plus already on offer.

Richard Last, who was recently appointed general manager, has 20 years’ experience in the health and fitness sector and specialises in sports and remedial massage, group exercise and personal training.

He is looking to raise the profile of the club and offer its members more of what they want.

The club has an impressive 18-hole golf course, tennis and badminton courts, a 25 metre swimming pool, a spa area, a children’s pool, a crèche and a hair salon. There’s also a café, free wi-fi and computer stations.

www.parklifedeals.co.uk www.virginactive.co.uk DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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news in brief…

Eleanor McAllister Retires From Clydebank Re-built Photo courtesy of Clydebank Re-built.

AFTER almost 10 years as managing director of Clydebank Re-built, Eleanor McAllister, OBE, has stepped down from the town's award-winning urban regeneration company.

More than 100 colleagues and friends from the community, West Dunbartonshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and the many organisations who worked with Clydebank Re-built were present at a retiral presentation and reception in the Cunard Suite at Clydebank College.

"Eleanor should be proud of her achievements here in Clydebank leading the town's regeneration company,” said Graham Mochan, chair of Clydebank Re-built.

Mr Mochan recounted major developments at Queens Quay, the improvement programme on the Forth and Clyde Canal banks and the town centre, and at new projects at Clyde Gate, which have been undertaken since Clydebank Re-built was set up in 2002.

"Eleanor brought to the job high energy, vision, innovation and a magical approach to sourcing funding,” said Mr Mochan.

"Under her leadership Clydebank Re-built, one of the smaller urban regeneration companies, was punching well above its size and funding.

"I firmly believe what Eleanor and her team have put in place over these past years will give Clydebank a head-start when the economic upturn comes.”

Clydebank Re-built has won more than 20 international and national awards and commendations for its projects and, in 2010, Eleanor received an OBE from the Queen for services to regeneration and architecture.

She joined Clydebank Re-built in June 2002 as its first managing director after more than 20 years working on major regeneration projects in local government.

She was depute director for Glasgow 1999, the city's year of architecture and design, and was in charge of the restoration of the Charles Rennie Macintosh designed ‘Lighthouse’ in Mitchell Lane which was formerly the Herald newspaper office. www.clydebankrebuilt.co.uk

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Tissue Solutions Achieves ISO 9001 TISSUE Solutions has been awarded ISO 9001 accreditation in recognition of its quality management standards.

This was achieved by working with BSI Management Systems which is a world leader in assessing business processes against internationally recognised benchmarks.

Dr Fiona Mackenzie, quality manager at Tissue Solutions commented: “We are delighted to achieve this accreditation as formal recognition of our commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

“Customer care has always been at the forefront of our business and this certification provides our customers with further reassurance that we always provides a quality service.”

Clydebank-based Tissue Solutions sources biological material on behalf of clients for use mainly during the preclinical research phase.

The company was established in 2007 and has grown steadily year-on-year gaining an international reputation as an ethical, high quality company for tissue provision. www.tissue-solutions.com

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THE DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 15 • SUMMER 2012

INcommerce ISSUE 13 • SPRING 2012

THE PERTHSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

THE

INcommerce

Lanarkshire CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 5 • AUTUMN 2011

INcommerce YOUR

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Issue 5 • June 2012

Children’s Games Boost Lanarkshire Tourism

City Status For Perth MAKE SAVINGS - GO GREEN

Also in this issue...

• Why Join the Chamber? Page 6 • Hamilton BID Update - Pages 14/15 • The Best Road in Britain - Pages 36/37 • CHAMBER AFFILIATION DEAL – PAGE 5 • LOMONDGATE SCULPTURE UNVEILED – PAGE 11 • WE ARE SAILING – PAGES 17-22

InCommerce Dunbartonshire

Beekeepers have Perthshire buzzing

Scottish Cabinet Minister John Swinney gets down to business

Gannochy Trust celebrates 75th anniversary

InCommerce Perthshire

• SUPPORTING CHARITIES – A GREAT BUSINESS STRATEGY • NEW SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ENTHUSIASM IN YOUR BUSINESS? • DO YOU HAVE A MARKETING SUPPORT MECHANISM FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

InCommerce Mid, East & West Lothian

Unit 14, Birch Road, Broadmeadow Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 2RE T: 01389 736000 F: 01389 736002 E-mail: info@dtechuk.com

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www.falkirkforbusiness.org www.lanarkshirechamber.org

InCommerce Lanarkshire

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InCommerce Falkirk for Business

Photos by Ian Jacob Photography www.presspix.biz

Lomondgate Sculpture Unveiled A MAJESTIC stag designed by internationally renowned sculptor Andy Scott now towers over the entrance to Lomondgate Services and Business Park.

Best known for his work such as the Heavy Horse on the M8 and Arria near Cumbernauld, artist Andy said he took his inspiration from the surrounding area: “Loch Lomond is a place of astounding natural beauty and I wanted to design a sculpture that featured some of the Scottish wildlife found there.

“The real challenge of the design was to portray the stag’s reflection in the water, which was something new for me and took quite a bit of work but I am really happy with how it has turned out.”

Mike Edward, director of the Walker Group, which has developed the site in partnership with Strathleven Regeneration Company (SRC) added: “We hope the stag will become a real local landmark and talking point for thousands of motorists when they drive towards the Lomondgate roundabout or arrive at the development.”

The six metre high sculpture, which weighs two tons, is made from around two kilometres of steel chopped up into thousands of pieces and welded together. It took months of painstaking work to design and build.

The business park is a key part of the £100m Lomondgate development and will provide 200,000 sq ft of office space accommodating around 1,000 people when complete.

The stag, which will be illuminated at night, appears to be standing in water with its reflection underneath. It is set on a raised plinth and integrated into the roundabout landscaping.

The £100m Lomondgate project was launched in 2007 by SRC, a public-private partnership established with the support of West Dunbartonshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and Diageo.

The site already has a Premier Inn with Brewers’ Fayre pub/ restaurant, Scotland’s first drive-thru Costa Coffee, BBC’s River City studios and Aggreko’s new £22m factory. Once completed there will be a total of 338 private homes on the site. www.lomondgate.com

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

11

Photo courtesy of Love Loch Lomond.

LOVE Loch Lomond (LLL) launched an £80k high profile spring marketing campaign to boost tourist numbers and spend at what is traditionally a quieter time of year.

DUMBARTON-BASED Solas Scotland has rolled out a domestic energy deal service which is already saving householders an average of £170 a year.

Photo by Fabric Photography courtesy of Love Loch Lomond.

Loch Lomond Marketing Boost

New Solas Energy Service Saves £££s

SEGWAY SAFARI PODCAST: Paul Saunders with Darren Thompson of Can You Experience and Gill Robertson, manager of Love Loch Lomond.

The first phase involved extensive advertising in the national press, representation at major travel trade events and online activity working closely with VisitScotland which backed the initiative with funding from its Growth Fund which is designed to support local collaborative marketing activity.

The destination organisation, which brings together more than 120 businesses from the Loch Lomond and Clyde Sea Lochs area, encourages potential visitors to enjoy some great days out in Scotland’s first national park.

“This new campaign brings together an exciting range of diverse offers for visitors to enjoy the best of the area and features ideas for outdoor activities and adventures, family fun, scenic boat trips, relaxation and much more,” said Gill Robertson, LLL manager.

“I am delighted local businesses have responded so well to participating in this marketing initiative to help showcase the area. I am also grateful to VisitScotland and Scottish Enterprise for their financial support to boost the scale of activity we are able to undertake to strengthen tourism locally.”

The spring campaign runs for a 12 week period and will be followed up with further seasonal campaigns which it is estimated will generate at least £1.5 million of spend in the area.

LLL has also teamed up with Paul Saunders Media to produce a series of audio podcasts to provide ideas and information on things to see and do in the area. www.lovelochlomond.com

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

“Some have saved £400 with our new Good Egg Energy service,” explained managing director, Graham McLennan.

“This builds on our award-winning home energy advice and advocacy service which enables householders to secure the best deal from their suppliers.

“We now also offer free advice on how to unscramble the real facts about domestic energy costs, help people to understand their usage and advise them on how to switch and save money.”

This is the latest in a range of energy saving schemes at Solas which has created 18 new jobs since November 2011 bringing its workforce to 56 and achieving its goal of generating lasting employment in the area.

Following the launch of its utility initiative last year, Solas Scotland has become an accredited solar photovoltaic panel installer which itself resulted in jobs for six new staff.

As it celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2012, Solas continues to invest 100 per cent of its operating profit into community-based services.

It has grown from a community business created to draught-proof council houses in 1987 into one of Scotland’s top social enterprises.

Solas is looking to move to ‘bigger and better’ premises in West Dunbartonshire within the next year. It has ambitious plans to build a state-of-the-art national headquarters which Mr McLennan says “will support and facilitate further growth and success into the future”. www.solas.biz www.goodegg-energy.co.uk

ilson

Money Matters

are celebrating 30 years in business

Is It Worth Having A Company Car?

Photo courtesy of Cam

Wilson Decorators Ltd

pbell Dallas.

D E C O R AT O R S

Donald Boyd, partner, of Campbell Dallas chartered accountants, considers the pros and cons of having a company car.

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All types of private and commercial work undertaken

e ilding F

37 Eastside, Kirkintilloch, Glasgow G66 1QA Tel/Fax 0141 777 8081 rwilsondecor@btconnect.com

For small companies it is important to calculate the potential taxation costs before deciding to put a car through the business. The benefits of having a company car are that the business gets tax relief on fuel and running costs and can also claim capital allowances against the purchase price.

However, the business will be liable for extra National Insurance and the employee will have company car tax to pay.

Company car tax is calculated using the list price of the car, the CO2 emissions and the employee’s income tax band.

The tax rate is based on CO2 emissions so some electric cars are zero rated. For any car above 75g/km the rate starts at 10 per cent rising up to 35 per cent for cars with emissions of over 220g/km. There is an additional three per cent surcharge for diesel cars – up to a maximum of 35 per cent.

There is an additional fuel benefit if the company pays for private mileage for the employee, which is again based on CO2 emissions.

We are a small family run delicatessen and cafe, Daughter (Julie) and Mother (Lin). Been trading for five years, serving home cooked food, including full breakfast, tasty soups and made to order sandwiches and panini. All baking is home made including scones, carrot cake and thick caramel slice.

Deli and grocery products are mainly sourced from Scottish producers and suppliers, along with a selection of ingredients for around the world.

10 Ancaster Square, Callander, FK17 8ED Tel: 01877 331220 email: deli.ecosse@yahoo.co.uk www.deliecosse.co.uk

Normal opening hours Oct - Easter 8.30am til 5pm Thursday to Tuesday, Closed on Wednesday. Easter to Oct 8am til 5.30pm.

If you are planning a day in the great outdoors, pop into the deli to fuel up before venturing out or enjoy a well earned coffee and cake afterwards.

Outdoor seating available, weather permitting, so enjoy a coffee or cold beer while watching the rest of the world go by.

So what is the alternative? If taking profits by way of dividends, then it may be beneficial to own the car personally and finance it by declaring extra dividends. At basic rate tax these are tax free and even at higher rate, the tax is only 25 per cent of the net dividend.

The company doesn’t get tax relief on the car running costs but it does on any business mileage at a rate of 45p for the first 10,000 miles annually and then at 25p a mile.

Recently, it has been the norm to own a car personally rather than have a company car but this may be worth reconsidering especially if you are buying a relatively green car.

Campbell Dallas, a chamber partner organisation, is Scotland’s third largest independent firm of chartered accountants with offices in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Perth and Stirling. www.campbelldallas.co.uk

For more information contact Donald Boyd on 0141 886 6644 or email Donald.Boyd@campbelldallas.co.uk.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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WEST Dunbartonshire Council has pledged to create 250 new apprentice positions to help alleviate youth unemployment in the area.

The ambitious initiative is in response to the fact that 350400 young people aged 18-19 years old living in West Dunbartonshire are claiming Jobseekers Allowance.

Two hundred positions will be available for this age group at level two with a further 50 at level three for those aged up to 24.

Recruitment will now begin for the first 100 level two apprentices who will be paid £2.71 per hour for a 37 hour week which is slightly above the prescribed minimum wage level.

Positions are being offered in the following areas – road worker, administration, hospitality, care, leisure and green space with the apprenticeships expected to take around nine months to complete.

The council has been criticised over the low pay level but has pointed out it is almost double the amount paid as Jobseekers’ Allowance.

A spokesman said: “The apprenticeship will offer a valuable quality work experience, the opportunity to gain a level two qualification plus job references and apprentices will be provided with assistance to access other employment opportunities.”

The council spokesman added that the level two apprenticeships were aimed at those who were struggling to get a foothold in the jobs market at all.

At level three, payment is at a higher rate and the course length varies from one to four years. www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk

Photo courtesy of Jo Swinson, MP.

West Dunbartonshire Council Apprentice Pledge

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS: Lorraine Crichton, people manager Asda Bishopbriggs with apprentice Rachel McLaughlin and MP Jo Swinson (centre).

Call for Businesses to Create Jobs JO Swinson MP has called on businesses to help Get East Dunbartonshire Working and find 100 jobs or training opportunities in 100 days.

She was joined by local businesses leaders, training providers, representatives from Skills Development Scotland and the local Jobcentre at the launch of the campaign.

Little Gems Nursery in Milngavie, Westerton Care Home in Bearsden and the Eagle Lodge Hotel in Bishopbriggs agreed to take part in the challenge on the spot.

“These types of opportunities can make a huge difference in someone’s life. It can also be a great catalyst for business growth, tapping into new talent and potential. With the government programmes available it makes good business sense for companies to get involved,” said Jo. Businesses in and around East Dunbartonshire can join in by calling Jo’s office on 0141 762 2209 for more information. joswinson.org.uk

Scottish Apprenticeship Week SCOTTISH Apprenticeship Week took place from May 21-25 this year. Skills Development Scotland asked employers, training providers and others to showcase their commitment to apprenticeships by encouraging more businesses to participate in the programme.

Events like business breakfasts, networking events, skills demonstrations and apprentice and management job swaps were just some of things planned during the week which celebrated the value of the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship.

More than 12,000 businesses in Scotland have already taken on Modern Apprentices with financial support of up to £2000 available to employers to fund training across all industry sectors.

This has resulted in around 34,000 modern apprenticeship jobs with companies across Scotland with 80 different occupations with apprenticeship frameworks. www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/scottishapprenticeship-week-2012

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Translations, editing and website health-checks

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Credibility: The little things count If you follow the international news, especially as regards the eurozone, you may have heard the name Giorgio Napolitano crop up in recent months. Mr. Napolitano is the President of Italy, and one of the country’s most esteemed and respected figures. What you may not know is that President Napolitano’s office entrusts the translation and editing work on some of his most sensitive speeches to a company based right here in Scotland: DNA Language.

Why do they like working with DNA Language? The words they use to describe us include “excellent”, “super-professional” and “scrupulous”. But we suspect it’s because we care about doing a good job and enhancing the President’s image. Which is the approach we adopt with all our customers.

A word that recurs frequently in the speeches and articles we work on for President Napolitano (and for Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi) is “credibility”: the need for Italy to restore its reputation both internationally and at home.

As any public relations company knows, credibility is all-important in managing your brand and in building and protecting your reputation. Whether you’re a country like Italy or a small business based right here in Scotland.

So why do so many businesses undermine their reputation and their credibility with sloppy writing that makes them look unprofessional and slipshod?

Untrustworthy, even.

In business, as in life, little things count. Customers notice typos, misplaced apostrophes and waffle.

Your copy, in print or on the web, should work for, not against, your credibility.

Don’t let the little things let your business down.

Marian Dougan Director, DNA Language Ltd

Photo by Neill Ross.

ALL ABOARD: Luke Patience with Junior RNCYC members.

Olympian Luke Patience Home for Yacht Club Launch OLYMPIC hopeful Luke Patience was home at the end of April to support young sailors at the Royal Northern and Clyde Yacht Club (RNCYC) in Rhu. A day of bright sunshine and a stiff breeze was ideal for the launch of upgraded facilities for junior sailors and the unveiling of a new training team under the banner of North Sailing.

With groups of young sailors on the water in the club's fleet of yachts, Luke shuttled between the different crews encouraging and enthusing them with his knowledge and love of the sport.

“Sailing is a fantastic sport, so much fun, and there is nothing to beat just being out there in the elements, having a blast,” he told the children.

“I was standing here myself all those years ago and now I am going to the Olympics. So it’s possible you guys could be doing that too.”

Club commodore, Jim Findlay, was delighted that this new venture was so well attended thanks in no small part to Luke’s presence.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

He said: “The Club is extremely proud of Luke's achievements over the years and especially in this Olympic year where he is representing his country at the very highest level.

“Luke has always sailed under the burgee of the RNCYC from his early days on the Optimist circuit, through 420's, to his present partnership with Stuart Bithnell in the 470 class.

“There is a unique relationship with this top class athlete which is reflected in his willingness to return regularly to his sailing roots and invest in those starting out.”

Luke was impressed with the new set up which is, in effect, a revitalised version of the programme that kick started his sailing career at the club when he was a seven-year-old.

At a club supper the night before, Luke hosted a lively question and answer session for club members and friends, giving a fascinating insight into the fitness and training regime of a world-class sailor.

Commodore Findlay added: “He spoke in an open and disarming way, impressing all with his dedication and humility. The Club wishes Luke and teammate Stuart the very best of luck in their bid for Olympic Gold this summer.” www.rya.org.uk/skandiateamgbr

Greenock’s Historic Dock Transformed THE Tall Ships visit to Greenock was a baptism of fire for James Watt Dock (JWD) Marina which rose admirably to the challenge.

Work began in May 2011 to transform the dock with the installation of 50 berths, services and secure parking. Just six weeks later preparations were being made the arrival of the Tall Ships – an event which was a huge success.

Around 750,000 people flocked to the area over a four day period boosting the Scottish economy by £24m with £10.4m of that spent in Inverclyde, according to an independent report.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Photo courtesy of James Watt Dock Marina.

Capacity was increased to 65 after the last Tall Ship sailed in July and there are plans to eventually accommodate 140 boats at the site which can currently berth several visiting super yachts.

The marina is accessible at all states of the tide and has a minimum depth of 5.1m (17ft). There is a combination of finger and alongside pontoon berths as well as wall berths of up to 45m+ meaning it can cater for a wide range of craft.

The marina represents phase one of an ambitious £180m public/private investment in the redevelopment of Inverclyde’s historic James Watt Dock and waterfront.

On completion, the project will include housing, commercial spaces, a hotel, studios, shops, a yacht club, new cycle ways and improved access to waterfront walkways. www.jameswattdockmarina.co.uk

It also has lift out facilities as well as hard-standing storage ashore and covered storage for caravans, boats on trailers, yachts and motorboats.

James Watt (1736-1819) JAMES Watt was born in Greenock and is its most famous son.

He was an inventor and mechanical engineer whose improvements to the steam engine helped power the Industrial Revolution. He developed the concept of horsepower and the watt was named after him.

He also patented a copying machine and was involved in improvements to Greenock Harbour.

Photo courtesy of McLean Museu

m and Art Gallery, Inverclyde Counc

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Photos courtesy of Arnold Clark.

ALL ABOARD: Simon Le Bon with Sir Arnold Clark on Drum.

Drum Berthed at James Watt Dock Marina DURAN Duran lead singer Simon Le Bon’s former yacht ‘Drum’ is based at JWD Marina.

She was originally commissioned by him for the 1985/86 Whitbread Round-the-World Yacht Race. However on a test run during the Fastnet Race in August 1985 she capsized with six crew members – including Le Bon – stuck inside.

Another yacht raised the alarm and a helicopter and The Royal National Lifeboat Institute were scrambled for what was a dramatic rescue operation.

Drum went on to compete in the Whitbread and finished third overall. More than 10,000 spectator boats welcomed her back to Britain.

Accessibility Key to Success The success of JWD Marina lies in its accessibility says Craig Latimer, its contract manager, who is based there.

Craig is a director of Blue Sea Marinas which runs operations at JWD. He is a chartered surveyor with extensive knowledge of the marine industry.

“The transport links are second to none,” he explained.

“We are at the bottom of the M8, less than 20 minutes from the airport, about 30 minutes from Glasgow city centre with convenient access to the world renowned sailing waters of the Clyde and West Coast of Scotland.”

Now owned by motor magnate Sir Arnold Clark, the Maxi racing yacht is a well-known sight in the waters of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland.

Sir Arnold competed in UK inshore and offshore races winning trophies in the yacht and sailing extensively with his family.

However, as his business grew, he found himself spending less time aboard Drum and the world famous vessel can now be hired for the ultimate corporate hospitality and sailing experience. www.arnoldclarkdrum.com

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Brewin Dolphin is delighted to support the Clyde Cruising Club Brewin Dolphin is one of the UK’s largest independent private client investment managers, with 41 offices throughout the UK and Channel Islands. Committed to personal service, we offer a wide range of financial solutions to help you make the most of your investments.

For more information please contact us on 0845 213 1000 or email info@brewin.co.uk www.brewin.co.uk

The value of your investment may fall and you may get back less than you invested Brewin Dolphin is a member of the London Stock Exchange and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority No.124444

Photo courtesy of Clyde Cruising Club.

Clyde Cruising Club Gears Up for Scottish Series

CLYDE Cruising Club organises one of the biggest annual sailing events in Scotland - the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Series.

It takes place this year over the Queen’s Jubilee weekend – from Friday 1 to Monday 4 June in the picturesque village of Tarbert, Loch Fyne. As well as competitive sailing there is a packed social programme which will be based in a new marquee complex on the north shore where the yachts will be berthed.

The club promises that those with fond memories of the marquee experience from previous years will not be disappointed with the new look and feel of this year’s event.

Competitors can meet, relax and socialise post-racing in the dedicated marquee bar which will be open for business from 4.30pm.

Photo courtesy of Phillip Fox Denham.

It will also be the heart of a daily prize-giving ceremony and the location of an exclusive whisky tasting session on the Saturday, courtesy of new event sponsors Bowmore, Islay Single Malt Whisky.

UNDER THE RAINBOW: Tarbert Harbour BUSY BERTH: Tarbert, Loch Fyne

There will be live music throughout the weekend from local musicians and, pipe bands, a tea party, a family ceilidh, a fireworks display, water waltzers and a separate children’s programme of events.

John Watson, Clyde Cruising Club Commodore, said: “We are very excited about this year’s Brewin Dolphin Scottish Series and delighted that the marquee is back for 2012.

Photo courtesy of Phillip Fox Denham.

“As the social hub for the weekend the marquee will help create a vibrant, enjoyable and truly unique experience for all participants who help make it a spectacular sailing event every year.” www.clyde.org

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Portavadie – Much More Than a Marina PORTAVADIE is much more than a marina – it is a stunning destination in its own right not to mention a spectacular wedding venue.

The marina is set in a breathtaking man-made lagoon amid dramatic Highland scenery on Loch Fyne in Argyll. It is one of the UK’s most modern marinas with deep water, sheltered berthing, purpose-built facilities and boatyard services.

It has 230 fully-serviced pontoon berths with power, water and lighting and access to a luxury bathroom with television.

It is ideally positioned for access to the Firth of Clyde and, of course, Loch Fyne.

It has top-of-therange, contemporary accommodation from modern self-catering apartments and studios to cosy cottages, a romantic couples retreat or, if you prefer, shared budget holiday accommodation.

There are two restaurants – the Marina Kitchen and Bar for waterfront dining with stunning views or for something more informal, the Lodge Kitchen.

Portavadie goes the extra mile for its guests and can bring food to them with the option of creating a bespoke menu and having served in the comfort of your own accommodation.

Portavadie and the nearby village of Tarbert are gearing up for what is undoubtedly their busiest time of the year when The Brewin Dolphin Scottish Series sails into Loch Fyne doubling the population of the area with sailors, crew and friends.

This year the racing takes place from Thursday 31 May to Monday 4 June, over the Queen’s Jubilee Holiday. Portavadie joins in the festivities with a marquee bar, live music on the Friday and Saturday evenings and an 80’s themed night on Sunday. www.portavadiemarina.com

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Photo courtesy of Portavadie Marina.

There is a shop and chandlery as well as a beauty and well-being service offering a range of pampering treatments using Pure Lochside products – a luxury Scottish spa brand with a holistic ethos.

A meeting to remember - Day delegate rate from £18.00 per person - 24 hour delegate rate from £82.50 per room - Stunning boardroom overlooking marina Extensive range of meeting spaces available please contact the team for more details +44 (0)1700 811075 events@portavadiemarina.com www.portavadiemarina.com

Set in a beautiful part of Argyll, less than 60 miles from Glasgow, this striking destination has so much to offer.

Something for everyone, from spa treatments to mountain bikes, a visit to Portavadie is the perfect way to spend a day.

– World Class Marina – Restaurants and Bars

– Accommodation – Meetings, Events and Weddings

– Retail Therapy – Beauty and Wellbeing

EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

With a highly skilled workforce, wide variety of business sites to suit all industries (including active main streets) and recent investment in business infrastructure, East Dunbartonshire offers a broad range of opportunities for new and established businesses.

The Economic Development Team at East Dunbartonshire Council work to support the local economy through delivering business support projects which aim to attract businesses to the area, help new businesses develop and existing businesses grow within East Dunbartonshire.

Working with our partners we offer a broad range of programmes and assistance to businesses including business planning, grants, training and direct one-on-one business support.

For more information contact the team or visit the recently revamped website which now contains more information on the programmes that are run by East Dunbartonshire Council and the other services that are available to assist businesses grow.

Phone: 0141 578 8621 www.edbusiness.net twitter: @_edbusiness

FIT FOR GROWTH Fit for Growth is a European funded programme which offers free advice, support and consultancy services to new and existing businesses. It is available to established businesses in East and West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute Councils.

Fit for Growth offers businesses the opportunity to improve their prospects for growth and sustainability as well as helping to improve their competitiveness.

Eligible businesses can access assistance to help with: • Business Development Reviews • Business Planning • Energy Efficiency Support • E-Commerce Support

A

lready running a successful consultancy business, advising, selling and developing products for other companies for many years, John MacAskill and Elaine Watson decided that they wanted to use all their skills and experience to bring something totally fresh to the premium bath & body market.

Business Success in East Dunbartonshire

John explained that after much pondering, Made in Heaven was chosen as our company name, hopefully to reflect both the nature of our (nearly) perfect working partnership AND the quality of our products!

Made in Heaven launched their product range at the Scotland’s Trade Fair. John describes the three different ranges of luxury toiletries as being inspired by the great outdoors with contemporary packaging, paraben free formulations which are fabulous to give as gifts (and to keep too!)

In growing the company, Made in Heaven has made full use of the services available to businesses. Prior to launching the product range, John and Elaine engaged with Business Gateway to access the services they offer to small businesses. From this they applied to the East Dunbartonshire Council’s Economic Development Team for grants to assist the business grow.

John was really pleased with the assistance they received.

He said “The grants we received helped us to purchase the capital equipment we needed to grow and to develop and implement our on-line marketing strategy. This assistance has helped us to accelerate the growth of our business.”

Made in Heaven (John MacAskill and Elaine Watson)

John and Elaine are now working hard to continue to promote Made in Heaven. “We already have a number of good orders we are fulfilling and are concentrating initially on developing the business in the UK. The next stage is then to follow up our enquiries from export markets such as China and America.”

The East Dunbartonshire Economy The economy of East Dunbartonshire remains relatively strong given the economic climate within Scotland. In the 12 months to March 2012, some key measures of the performance were: • • •

The number of Job Search Allowance (JSA) claimants decreased by 31 to 1885 which compares to an increase by 3.7% across all of Scotland (Source: ONS claimant count); The average house prices increased by 3.8% to £199,999 with sales increasing by 60 or 28.8% with Scottish average prices increasing by 1.7% over this time; (Source: Registers of Scotland) Council partners supporting 225 new businesses, an increase of 21 over the previous year (Source: East Dunbartonshire Council);

The Economic Development Team at East Dunbartonshire Council produces a quarterly bulletin on the economy of East Dunbartonshire and can provide data and analysis for businesses upon request. Copies of the bulletins can be found at the website www.edbusiness.net

Photo courtesy of Ayr Racecourse.

The Sport of Kings... and the Punters

HORSE racing may be the sport of kings but it is also a favourite with the punters if attendance at the recent Coral Scottish Grand National in Ayr is anything to go by.

Scotland has five racecourses which will stage 96 race meetings in 2012 offering flat and jump racing at different times of the year. The layout of each track varies dramatically, placing different demands on the horses and riders.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Perth has been voted Best Small Racecourse in Scotland and the North East for three times in the past five years and had a record breaking 2011 season with attendance figures up by 12 per cent.

It recently announced an almost near 30 per cent increase in prize money for the forthcoming season with the 2012 total exceeding £620,000 – an increase of £160,000 on last year.

At a time when British horseracing’s finances have been hit by a steady decline, with poor prize-money being the inevitable result, a successful period of growth in attendance and turnover has allowed Perth to buck the trend and invest in this area.

Ayr Racecourse Ayr is Scotland’s premier racecourse and stages 27 fixtures throughout the year both on the flat and over jumps. It is home to the Coral Scottish Grand National and the William Hill Ayr Gold Cup. www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

Hamilton Park Racecourse Hamilton Park boasts Scotland’s only dedicated flat track and has 18 race meetings throughout the summer with a highlight being the Super Six series of events.

This winds up with the Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Race Night on Friday 24 August. This will be the fifth running of the handicap race which has what is believed to be the oldest sporting trophy in existence. It dates from 1165 when it was gifted to the people of Lanark by King William ‘The Lion’. www.hamilton-park.co.uk

Perth Racecourse Set in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace, Perth Racecourse launched the new racing year with the threeday festival in April and continues with summer jump racing action until September.

June 10 sees the focal point of the season, and one of the most prestigious summer jump races in the UK, with the City of Perth Gold Cup. This is a big event in Scottish racing attracting a family audience of around 12,000. www.perth-races.co.uk

Musselburgh Racecourse Historic Musselburgh Links has been a venue for horse racing since 1816 and is one of the most recent courses to develop a jumping track. It is one of two courses in Scotland that races both on the flat and over obstacles.

Its big race day is the Edinburgh Cup on June 2 and racing continues at Musselburgh until December with a Christmas meeting on the 10th. www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Kelso Racecourse Kelso in the Scottish Borders is known as ‘Britain’s friendliest racecourse’. It is hosting 12 race days in 2012, mainly in the winter and is one of the most popular venues for enthusiasts of jump racing. www.kelso-races.co.uk www.scottishracing.co.uk DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Photo courtesy of Ayr Racecourse.

Crowds Flock to Scottish Grand National

ALL SMILES: Winning jockey Timmy Murphy with Merigo and groom Claire Graham.

AYR Racecourse had one of its biggest crowds in 20 years for the Coral Scottish Grand National in April.

More than 16,000 spectators saw 15/2 shot Merigo cross the line a head in front of Auroras Encore to become the first horse since 1956 to take the prize again having won it in 2010 and been runner-up last year.

Cheers normally reserved for a football cup final winning goal echoed around Ayr Racecourse on a beautiful sunny day.

The 11-year-old ridden by Timmy Murphy chased Auroras Encore up the home straight and was a length down jumping the last fence but rallied to beat Ryan Mania’s mount as they passed the post.

Trainer Andrew Parker who is based near Dumfries summed it all up after the race: “That’s eight times Merigo has run here and he’s won five, been second twice and third once. He just comes alive here – he has the heart of a lion.”

The chief supporting race, The Isle of Skye Blended Whisky Scottish Champion Hurdle, went to Raya Star (15/2) in the hands of Robert ‘Choc’ Thornton who gave Alan King’s horse a peach of a ride to win by three and a quarter lengths from Local Hero (11/1).

Leading owner Graham Wylie had a superb meeting with three winners on Saturday and one on Friday.

Largs owner Mrs Jo Tracey landed another Saturday highlight, The Weatherbys Bloodstock Insurance Handicap Chase with the David Pipe trained, Tom Scudamore ridden Problema Tic (6/1) and top trainer Nicky Henderson landed a double with Cucumber Run (10/1) and River Maigue (10/11 fav) both ridden by Barry Geraghty.

Ayr Racecourse’s Lindsey Smith commented: “What a wonderful two days racing – everyone enjoyed the action and we had great crowds.” www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk

The winning mount had the backing of Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond who is a well-known horse racing enthusiast.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Huge TV Audience for Horse Racing at Ayr “The quality of the event has been reflected in the outstanding viewing figures.”

Jamie Aitchison – Channel 4

CHANNEL 4’s coverage of the Coral Scottish Grand National at Ayr Racecourse attracted 1.3 million viewers for the prestigious four mile contest.

The peak, a 36 per cent increase on 2011 figures, puts the grade three event in the top five jump race broadcasts for Channel 4’s live racing coverage that day.

Broadcasts from Ayr and Newbury Racecourses averaged at 759,000 viewers with a 7.8 per cent share – a one third increase in volume and quarter share when compared year on year.

The Morning Line programme also increased its audience figures by 20 per cent with Nick Luck at the helm and jockey Campbell Gillies making his first appearance. The show averaged at 345,000 viewers, peaking at 419,000.

Jamie Aitchison, Channel 4’s sports editor, said: “We were delighted to be at Ayr Racecourse for the first time with the entire team. The quality of the event has been reflected in the outstanding viewing figures.

“We would like to thank Ayr Racecourse for being so welcoming and look forward to working with them on the Ayr Gold Cup later in the year.”

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Star Spotting at Ayr Racecourse CELEBRITIES from the world of sport and television mingled with one of the biggest crowds in living memory at a sun drenched Ayr Racecourse in April.

It was a day for star spotting both on and off the course with well-known visitors including First Minister Alex Salmond, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, ex-England football captain Bryan Robson and rugby stars past and present including Dan Parks, Andy Nicol, Derek Stark and Gregor Townsend.

The scene was set early in the day with the presenters of Channel 4’s Morning Line programme arriving at the course shortly before 7.30 am. Nick Luck, Alice Plunkett, Alistair Down, Tom Lee and Simon Holt broadcast live coverage from the course’s Chancellor Carvery.

VIP guests flooded into Western House for a reception hosted by racecourse chairman Alan Macdonald which featured a special performance from Stewarton singer Francesca Kimberley.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Midday brought the arrival of a helicopter with Sir Alex Ferguson and Bryan Robson. By the time the first race kicked off the centre of the track resembled a heliport with several aircraft parked including one in the familiar yellow and green colours of Sir Trevor Hemmings - owner of Blackpool Tower.

They were treated to a historic race for victor Merigo which won for the second time in three years after coming second last year.

A battalion of journalists and photographers joined the third largest crowd at the course in the last two decades to witness a great day’s racing with the highlight being the fantastic finish to the Coral Scottish Grand National.

On the Friday a larger than normal crowd enjoyed both the racing and a performance from 80’s chart toppers The Human League in the Ayrshire Suite.

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Independent School Sector Numbers Stable INDEPENDENT schools are a popular educational choice for parents in Scotland with numbers in the sector stable despite a decrease in Scotland’s overall pupil population.

Last year there were more than 31,000 children in Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) schools - 1,737 in nurseries, 10,893 in primary and 18,795 in senior schools.* Numbers have increased for secondary pupils in mainstream schools, and for nursery and primary pupils in special schools.

There has been a slight reduction in pupil numbers at mainstream nursery and primary levels, probably due in part to the decreasing numbers of primary-aged children in the population. The number of boarding and residential pupils has also fallen marginally.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Scotland has 75 independent SCIS schools with 39 of them ‘all through’ – that is catering from age five to 18.

Amongst the key aims of the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) are to provide information, advice and guidance to parents and to communicate and negotiate with the Scottish Parliament, the Government, and with public and private bodies on behalf of the independent sector.

SCIS became a charitable company limited by guarantee in 1990. www.scis.org.uk * Figures from SCIS.

Lomond School Looks Forward ITS motto is ‘prospiciamus’ which is not a Hogwarts’ spell but Latin for ‘let us look forward’.

That is exactly what Helensburgh’s Lomond School did when much of it was destroyed by fire in 1997 and is what it continues to do in 2012.

The new purpose-built modern replacement for the old St Bride’s building was followed in 2003 by a boarding house built on the site of the former school accommodation block which bore the same name as its predecessor - Burnbrae.

HEADMASTER: Simon Mills. “Our family approach, small classes, positive ethos and shared determination to help pupils of all abilities progress to their full level is key.”

Photos courtesy of Lomond School

Not surprisingly for a coastal town, sailing is very popular at Lomond, with a number of international competitors amongst the pupils.

Headmaster Simon Mills explained the school’s ethos: “We aim to remain at the forefront of educational best practice, retaining the best of a traditional education, whilst innovating and remaining open to new ideas and approaches.

Lomond is unique in the West of Scotland as the only independent school which takes boarders as well as day pupils. It is co-educational and caters for children at nursery, junior and senior levels with day places from age three to 18 years and boarding options from age 10.

Children travel from across Dunbartonshire, Stirlingshire and Argyll and Bute to attend with bus routes from Killearn, Drymen, Gartocharn and Balloch.

The school delivers consistently high academic results and achieved the highest number of ‘excellent’ ratings from HMIE of any school in Scotland during its last inspection in 2007.

It also offers a broad range of more than 50 extra-curricular activities including sport, music, drama and outdoor pursuits plus a wide variety of trips and expeditions at home and abroad which cater for a variety of ages and interests.

In addition to a new, purpose built sports hall which was completed in 2009, the school has four tennis courts and a full sized, floodlit, all-weather pitch which is used for outdoor sports.

SENIORS: S5 pupils Calum Wilson, Verity McSheaffrey, Ross Stanley-Whyte and Katherine Bull.

“Consistently ranked academically amongst the top schools in Scotland, Lomond is nevertheless non-selective in its intake and achieves its remarkably consistent results due to the quality of its provision both within and outwith the classroom.

“The school prides itself on enabling every individual to achieve their full potential both academically and as a human being.” www.lomond-school.org

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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School Sporting Success Photo courtesy of Lomond School

LOMOND’S S3 team won the Scottish Schools Netball Cup in April defeating Gordonstoun in the national finals held in Motherwell with a 2318 score line.

This came hot on the heels of a very successful tour to Malta where they took part in an international schools weekend. Despite reaching the final, the team was narrowly defeated by an under-18 Australian squad.

CHAMPIONS: Lomond’s S3 netball team

As the defending champions, the school is gearing up for the gruelling Scottish Islands Peaks Race over the weekend of 18 to 21 May. The race kicks off in Oban and involves running and sailing around the west coast of Scotland via Mull, Jura and Arran, finishing off at Troon. The race takes two or three days to complete and is a test of stamina and endurance.

The school is also taking part in the Lomond Challenge Schools Triathlon on 25 August which all Scottish secondary schools are invited to attend. Last year its team won the mixed competition.

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Eurospace Astronaut Training PUPILS faced an intense schedule of astronaut training sessions during a week-long visit to the Eurospace Centre in Belgium at Easter.

This included a simulated moonwalk, an opportunity to try a multi-axis chair, a rotating chair, an anti-gravity wall, plus experience of clean room satellite build and upkeep and of general operations missions, giving pupils a taste of the preparation and rigour that is expected in the space industry.

A group of 30 S2 Lomond School students gained an insight into the world of space physics and engineering and of the training expectations which astronauts face.

The week began with a briefing and tour of the space centre with students split into small groups during for the training activities. The teams learned how to build a rocket which they launched at the end.

One of the highlights of the trip for most of the students, and staff, was the simulated return mission to the International Space Centre (ISS). Each team was assigned a role, either in flight control on Earth, or in the cockpit on the shuttle.

The event for pupils in S4-6 involves two person teams in a 1.7 mile Canadian canoeing leg on Loch Lomond, a 1.7 mile cycle and a 3.4 mile run.

The teams had to work seamlessly to guide the mission from launch on Earth, to docking at the ISS, and then to re-entry and landing. Two of the four missions were safely completed, the others are still somewhere in space!

Held in the shadow of Ben Lomond, it has run successfully since 1991 and is so popular that the organisers have had to limit the number of teams to 80 on a ‘first come’ basis.

Lomond School has offered this trip to pupils for the last three years as it complements material in the National Curriculum as well as activities offered by the department of physics.

www.scottishislandspeaksrace.com

The Eurospace programme offers pupils an insight into the world of space physics and gives them an idea of what a career in the industry could offer them.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Eurotransnet is a translation agency that seeks to provide its clients with a translation service that at all times provides translations document being delivered on budget and on time, every time.

Our clients include multinational corporations from a wide range of industries, government and quasi-governmental organisations, pharmaceutical companies, patent agents, banks, lawyers, accountants, design agencies, public relation and marketing companies and manufacturers of machinery and equipment.

Translation Proofreading Desktop Publishing Transcription Language Consultancy

With the ability to provide translations in all of the world’s languages both into and from English, we can truly assist you with all of your language requirements.

We’re Listening t: 01324 473630

Eurotransnet Ltd, Polaroid Building, Vale of Leven Industrial Estate, Dumbarton G82 3PW Tel: 01389 742347 • Email:translation@eurotransnet.co.uk • www.eurotransnet.co.uk

e: hello@ocean70.com

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Every day is an open day

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Please contact the school for details.

w: ocean70.com

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Excellent facilities and new Sports Hall All through school (nursery to S6) Boarding and day places

Lomond School offers an academic education that will stretch and extend your child to their full potential with a strong extra curricular programme of sport, music, drama and outdoor activity.

We warmly welcome families to see round the school, meet staff and pupils and find out more about the unique opportunities that our pupils are enjoying. Just make an appointment to visit any time.

Financial assistance is available with fee reduction up to 100%.

Lomond School is a co-educational HMC Independent School.

10 Stafford Street, Helensburgh T 01436 672 476 www.lomond-school.org

The Morris Leslie Group

Morris Leslie Property Division PREMISES TO LET Warehousing/Distribution Complex:7 Lyon Road, Linwood, Paisley PA3 3BQ

Situated within easy access of Glasgow International Airport and less than 2 miles from M8 motorway this warehousing/distribution complex benefits from extensive road frontage. The accommodation on offer includes circa 10,000 sq ft of modern warehousing, 2 storey office and an extensive secure, surfaced yard. In addition, there is a stand alone transport workshop of 2,455 sq ft. Available as a whole or in part on competitive terms.

The Morris Leslie Group has a large commercial and residential property portfolio throughout the UK. For further information contact Richard Haggart / Jan Longmuir on 01821 642940.

The Morris Leslie Group

Errol Airfield, Errol, Perth PH2 7TB

www.morrisleslie.com

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Budget Briefing

Photo courtesy of Cam

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pbell Dallas.

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by Paul Donnelly of Campbell Dallas LLP, Chartered Accountants GEORGE Osborne reaffirmed the need for stability in the UK economy when he presented his third budget on 21 March.

Key points: 1. The personal age allowance for under-65s is increased by £630 making it £8,105 for 2012/13. A further increase of £1,100 was confirmed for 2013/14 bringing the personal allowance up to £9,205.

As per last year, the basic rate band was reduced to ensure higher rate tax payers do not benefit from the increased personal allowance. This means all gross earnings above £42,475 are taxable at 40 per cent.

2. The capital gains tax annual exemption remains at £10,600. Rates of capital gains tax are also unchanged at 18 per cent and 28 per cent.

The lifetime limit of gains which can benefit from the 10 per cent entrepreneurs relief rate stays at £10 million.

3. There was a plan to reduce corporation tax by one per cent but this was increased to two per cent making the corporation tax rate 24 per cent from 1 April 2012. Further one per cent reductions are planned in 2013 and 2014.

Corporation tax for small companies remains at 20 per cent.

4. The annual investment allowance was reduced to £25,000 from 1 April 2012. Writing down allowances have been reduced from 20 per cent to 18 per cent for assets that fall into the main pool and reduced from 10 per cent to eight per cent for assets in the special rate pool.

For more information please contact Paul Donnelly at Campbell Dallas LLP on 0141 886 6644 or email paul.donnelly@campbelldallas.co.uk.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Centrex House office space meeting space

education space conference space

Telephone: 01506 497 777 Email: reception@centrexhouse.com www.centrexhouse.co.uk Centrex House 1 Simpson Parkway, Kirkton Campus, Livingston West Lothian, EH54 7BH, Scotland

01557 860 124 www.jgfindlay.co.uk

Winter Maintenance Gritting Footpaths Gritting of Car Parks Snow and Ice Clearance Snow Plough

Landscaping Works Block Paving Timber Decking Turfing and Seeding of lawns and other grass areas Water Feature Installations Footpath Construction Footbridge Construction

Ground Maintenance Grass Cutting Hedge Cutting Tree Surgery Weed Control Scrub Clearance Full Estate Maintenance

Photos by the SNS agency, Glasgow (info@snspix.com).

Iomart Hosting in Free Footy Kit Giveaway MODEL PLAYERS: Emma Fernon and Charlie Mulgrew show Dunbartonshire Development League footballers the Host Your Kit website.

UP-AND-COMING Dunbartonshire youth team players helped kick off a free football kit give-away with Scotland stars Charlie Mulgrew and Emma Fernon.

Rebecca Duncan (13), Katie Frew (12) and brother Alex (10), Mhairi Rennie (11), and 14-year-olds Ross MacSween and Michael Worms, all play in the Dunbartonshire Development League.

They joined Charlie and Emma for a kick about to launch ‘Host Your Kit’, an initiative by the Scottish Digital IT Company of the Year, iomart Hosting.

Glasgow-based iomart is providing strips to 30 teams in Scotland, England and Wales which send in the best video or email explaining why they need new kit.

Celtic player Charlie Mulgrew said: “I remember as a young boy how much of a confidence boost it gave me when I ran out on the pitch wearing a proper kit.”

Emma Fernon, who plays for Glasgow City Ladies, added: “Women’s football is one of the fastest growing sports in this country and the teams need decent kits so I hope lots of girls’ teams take the opportunity to get involved.”

The competition runs until Friday 20 July with the winners announced in three phases – on 27 April, on 8 May, and on the first day of the Olympic Games, on 27 July.

‘Host Your Kit’ is open to able-bodied and disabled boys and girls football teams who play in a recognised youth league in the Under 11 (2001s) to Under 16s (1996s) age categories. Teams can enter at www.hostyourkit.com. www.iomarthosting.com DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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University Support for Business

ucher £5K PVrooject Services

PSYBT Elevator Pitch Strip Sensation

for UWS

TWO young entrepreneurs created a stir with their creative take on elevator pitches at the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) Dunbartonshire regional gathering.

DUNBARTONSHIRE business could be eligible for a £5000 innovation voucher in collaboration with the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

Designers and filmmakers Douglas King and Darren Osborne of 14c Studios stripped off a series of white t-shirts they had printed their pitch on much to the amusement of the audience.

Chamber members were advised of the range of support and training on offer by Brian Cross, Lorraine Dymond and Karen McKay of UWS at a Business Roadshow in Clydebank.

UWS can provide consultancy and research expertise, corporate education, IT training and access to students with work placements and projects.

UWS Knowledge Transfer Officer, Lorraine Dymond gave examples of joint working across a variety of pioneering activities.

“Innovation is recognised as a driver of economic growth and here at UWS, we are delighted to support local businesses through access to our facilities, staff and student expertise,” she explained.

“One of the key aspects of my job is to match your business needs with a solution. We can also help companies with their skills requirements, including those of their management teams.”

Contact Lorraine on 0141 848 3400 or email Lorraine.Dymond@uws.ac.uk. www.uws.ac.uk/knowhow

There was a full house for annual event where regional chairman Douglas Jackson welcomed everyone and thanked PSYBT volunteers and the organisations it works with including Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce.

Former regional award winner Fraser Gibson of United Sports USA gave an update on the development of his PSYBTsupported business which he said was ‘growing steadily’.

“PSYBT have been fantastic for us and a great help. I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for them,” he acknowledged.

John Corcoran, MBE, honorary president of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, told the gathering how he set up his own business in 2003 and that it had grown since then into a £1m turnover operation.

“If you are willing to work hard, success will follow,” he said, “but being in business can be lonely. The chamber of commerce provides a network of like-minded people and can open many doors.”

The audience also heard from PSYBT chief executive Mark Strudwick, CBE, who recently retired after 12 years in the role.

PSYBT is a charity which helps young people aged 18-25 set up their own businesses. It is always looking for volunteers to act as mentors and advisers. www.psybt.org.uk.

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DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Events Diary...

May

Friday 22 June 12pm for 12.30pm – 8pm

Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Outing

Friday 25 May 12pm – 2.30pm

SPECIAL CHAMBER EVENT with Rear Admiral Chris Hockley, Flag Officer Scotland, Northern England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the Royal Navy presentation team

Buchanan Castle Golf Club, Drymen G63 0HY.

Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre, Clydebank G81 4SA.

A great golf day plus the chance to meet and network with members and guests in a spectacular setting.

Cost: £20 chamber members/£25 non members (+ VAT).

The event is scheduled for a Friday afternoon to ease you into the weekend and is open to all - both male and female golfers.

Includes light lunch.

The Royal Navy is a major contributor to the economy both of Dunbartonshire and the West of Scotland. So what does the future hold and how can it benefit businesses, employment and the area generally?

Hear about it from Rear Admiral Chris Hockley, Flag Officer Scotland, Northern England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the Royal Navy presentation team.

Rear Admiral Hockley, the most senior naval officer in Scotland, is responsible for Royal Navy liaison with the devolved governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Cost: £45 a head (+ VAT) Rolls and tea/coffee served from 12.30pm First tee off 1.30pm – format Stableford.

Two course high tea and prize-giving circa 5.30/6pm.

Teams of three - members who want to golf with guests please advise the organiser. Prizes for best individual and team performances plus Pedro the Parrot booby prize.

There are a range of sponsorship opportunities at £30 and £40. For more information contact the organiser John Corcoran, MBE, on 07801 981 471 or email johnc@ dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk.

If you don’t golf but would like the chamber to organise some other activity so you can take part please get in touch with the organiser to discuss alternatives.

.

Wednesday 30 May 1.30pm

Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting Virgin Active Milngavie Health, Racquets and Golf Club (formerly Esporta), Strathblane Road, Milngavie G62 8HJ. FREE Tea and coffee provided.

Annual report on performance, accounts and board membership. Further details will be emailed to members.

to book chamber events Call our events team on 0141 280 0272 or e-mail admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk Please note that full payment is required in advance and cancellations made less than three working days prior to the event are non-refundable.

Virgin Active Milngavie has kindly agreed to provide some ‘goody bags’ for those who attend the meeting.

Kirky Charity Fundraiser

TWELVE charities including Campsie View School, the Fort Theatre, Lenzie Crusaders, Milngavie in Bloom and the Friends of Thomas Muir are better off thanks to a fundraising dinner held in Kirkintilloch.

The event, hosted by East Dunbartonshire Council in Tom Johnston House and supported by Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, raised almost £5,000 and was well supported by local businesses.

The guest speakers were well-known Stobhill Hospital campaigner Dr Frank Dunn and Scottish comedian Des Clarke, both of whom had the audience in stitches.

The raffle and an auction were compered by Robert Wilson of Wilson Decorators in his own inimitable style.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

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Lennoxlove House

Enjoy five star service in the luxurious and historic home of the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton. The Estate is nestled in the picturesque East Lothian countryside; the perfect venue for exclusive private celebrations and corporate events, just outside the capital.

T: 01620 828614 www.lennoxlove.com

Strathleven House, Dumbarton Offices and Meeting Rooms To Let •

A variety of office accommodation is available to let within Strathleven House in Dumbarton. Short and long term licences are also available.

•

Conference and meeting rooms can be hired by the hour/day for meetings, seminars, weddings and other special events, all at competitive rates.

•

Mailbox addresses also available from £15 per month

For further information please contact: 01389 750005 or email property@shbt.org.uk

NSC Cleaning NSC Cleaning was established in 1991 by Norman Clark, we have been operating our family run cleaning business ever since throughout West Dunbartonshire and Argyll. Our business has grown from a small team of two, to ten fully insured, highly trained, professional employees. Our cleaning contracts are varied and we have over 100 returning, loyal customers who are testament to the sterling service we provide.

Our cleaning includes domestic, industrial and commercial. We have ofďŹ ce cleaning contracts that have been running for over a decade and can happily provide references for any potential clients to ensure peace of mind. Not only do we provide commercial services, but we offer excellent carpet and upholstery cleaning services which is guaranteed to refresh any household at a very competitive rate. NSC understand

in this economic climate it is not always possible to replace your household items as often as you would like, however after a visit from NSC your sofas and carpets will look and feel brand new. Our service is so good that it has even been recommended by John Amabile from the Daily Record, this article can be seen at our website www.nsccleaners.co.uk. We have the highest standards of workmanship and we are constantly reviewing our procedures to ensure the best results for our customers. We guarantee to give you a personal service that is 100% tailored to your requirements.

So for all your domestic, commercial and industrial needs please contact info@nsccleaners.co.uk for a competitive quote.

New Members European Circuits Limited

EUROPEAN Circuits Ltd (ECL) is expanding its business again despite only moving to its current larger premises less than two years ago.

Notwithstanding the stuttering economic recovery, ECL has seen continued growth three-quarters of the way through its current financial year it is on track for a 12 per cent increase on its 2011 figures.

Photo courtesy of European Circuits Ltd.

With these results and a strong order book, work has begun on stage one of its further expansion programme.

Offices and meeting rooms will be relocated to a new mezzanine floor above the front section of the factory.

JARDINE CARPETS

JARDINE Carpets is a family business run by proprietor Stephen Alexander. It has served the people of West Dunbartonshire for the past two decades and puts customer satisfaction at the heart of what it does.

Photo courtesy of Jardine Carpets

The business which supplies and fits household flooring, offers top quality carpet ranges such as Ulster, as well as ranges to suit all budgets. There is a large selection of vinyl and rugs and the business has expanded into the commercial sector, with its industrial safety flooring range and office standard carpet tiles.

European Circuits Limited, Beardmore Way, Clydebank Industrial Estate, Clydebank G81 4HT. T: 0141 941 1388 F: 0141 951 2084 E: info@european-circuits.co.uk W: www.european-circuits.co.uk europeancircuits europeancircuit

and integrity and is keen to develop mutually beneficial business-to-business relationships with like-minded companies.

If you are interested in developing potential business opportunities then please get in touch.

Stephen Alexander, Jardine Carpets, 142 High Street, Dumbarton G82 1PQ. T: 01389 765217 E: jardinecarpets@hotmail.co.uk W: www.jardinecarpets.co.uk

Jardine Carpets offers a free, no obligation quote service and accepts most major debit and credit cards. It prides itself on its honesty

JOHNSTON HAMILTON ASSOCIATES LIMITED

JOHNSTON Hamilton Associates Ltd, chartered building surveyors, specialise in providing a personalised, flexible service.

Established as a small company offering a bespoke alternative to large, often inflexible surveying firms, it covers all types of property from residential to commercial, industrial to religious across Dunbartonshire, Helensburgh, Argyll and Bute and further afield.

From commencement to completion, clients have the full attention of an experienced, dedicated, professional chartered building surveyor. Founding director Stewart Hamilton is qualified to MRICS standard, with a BSc (Hons) in Building Surveying and 13 years of post-qualification experience.

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This will create an extra 1500 square feet of manufacturing space allowing for increased capacity and additional equipment. By the time work on the second stage is complete, an additional 5000 square feet will have been created.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

Services include undertaking schedules of condition for landlords and tenants, preparing and negotiating dilapidations, insurance reinstatement valuations, building defects diagnosis and specification of remedial works, and expert witness reports.

Full details of the professional services offered and information on some current and completed projects at www.johnstonhamilton. com.

Johnston Hamilton Associates Ltd T: 01389 830 288 M: 07968 339 096 E: stewart@johnstonhamilton.com W: www.johnstonhamilton.com

LOVE LOCH LOMOND

LOVE Loch Lomond (LLL) is an industryled destination organisation that operates in the Loch Lomond, Strathendrick, West Dunbartonshire and Clyde Sea Lochs areas.

It is dedicated to working on a collaborative basis to capitalise on the area’s strong tourism potential.

With its information-rich destination website, it aims to showcase all that this wonderful landscape has to offer and the range and quality of tourism businesses within it.

LLL has just launched its spring marketing campaign, driven by offers supplied by member businesses and with financial support from the VisitScotland Growth Fund.

TAG DIGITAL

TAG Digital is an online marketing agency which helps companies build their brand online and drive sales.

It has never been more important to have people talking about your brand online and saying the right things in today’s globally connected world with digital communication on everyone’s radar.

Tag Digital provides training across all social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Google Plus - helping your business to maximise the benefits of these powerful platforms. There is also an online management option so you can relax and reap the rewards.

It also offers members lots of promotional opportunities, exposure on social media channels, invitations to networking events, business links and collaborative working prospects, familiarisation trips and also training, workshops and other support activity.

To join Love Loch Lomond visit its website or, for more information, e-mail manager Gill Robertson.

Love Loch Lomond E: manager@lovelochlomond.com W: www.lovelochlomond.com lovelochlomond lovelochlomond

Services include - web design, search engine marketing, social media, email marketing, content creation as well as mobile app development and video production.

Get in touch with Laura Grant, account director, to empower your business today.

Tag Digital, Unit 8, Cloberfield Industrial Estate, Milngavie, G62 7LN. T: 0141 956 5918 E: laura@tagdigital.co.uk W: www.tagdigital.co.uk tagdigitaluk tagdigitaluk

Join now to access a range of benefits including:

WORKING FOR BUSINESS

•

Legal expenses cover up to £670,000 plus 24-hour advice line

•

Human resource service including ACAS compliant policies plus health and safety advice and updates

•

Saving on private medical insurance

•

Cost effective primary health plan with 10 benefits plus diagnostic scans

•

FREE business mentoring

•

Networking and events

•

Influencing and lobbying at local, national and EU levels

Can you afford not to join? Entry level membership at less than 40p a day is cost effective and excellent value for money.

Download your application NOW at www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or call our admin team on 0141 280 0272.

DUNBARTONSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2012

45

JJR Print Ltd Dumbuck House Hotel

BUSINESS SPECIAL STATIONERY OCCASIONS

The Dumbuck House Hotel is licensed to hold civil ceremonies on the premises and can therefore provide the complete wedding package from start to finish.

Whether you choose to exchange vows in one of our elegantly appointed function rooms, the grandeur of the Apollo Suite, or in front of the spectacular backdrop of nearby Loch Lomond, the Dumbuck is ideally suited to ensure a memorable occasion.

PERSONAL ITEMS

printing for everyone

Our experienced staff can arrange anything you need to create the perfect wedding experience, whatever your requirements we can assure you of our personal and professional attention from beginning to end.

WHATEVER IT IS - WE’VE GOT IT COVERED! Follow us on:

Glasgow Road, Dumbarton, Renfrewshire G82 1EG T: 01389 734 336 E: info@dumbuckhousehotel.com www.dumbuckhousehotel.com

The Fairways Funeral Plan

The personal service you deserve.

The Fairways Funeral Plan is individually tailored to meet your needs. Everything included in The Fairways Funeral Plan is fully guaranteed no matter how high prices rise and we’ve created flexible payment plans to suit any budget.

So even in uncertain times, you can rest assured everything will be taken care of.

Simple, affordable ways to pay.

Pay in full with a single payment or over a set period. Or by fixed monthly payments.

Saves your loved ones worry and a financial burden.

Choose from a Tailor-made option or from 3 Set Cremation Plans.

Protects against the rising cost of funerals.

Your family won’t need to pay a penny more towards your plan, even in 20 or 30 years time.

Consultations can be arranged in the comfort of your own home.

For more information and a free brochure please contact:

Wylie & Lochhead

Unit 7 The Triangle Shopping Centre, Bishopbriggs

0141 772 8212

Wylie & Lochhead

Wylie & Lochhead

0141 954 4488

0141 332 2653

860 Crow Road, Anniesland

201 Pitt Street

McLays of Milngavie 4 Crossveggate Estate, Milngavie

0141 956 2373

This voucher entitles the bearer to a £50 discount off the retail price of a Fairways Funeral Plan.* Terms & Conditions: 1. This discount is solely redeemable by the presenter of the voucher, who may use it to purchase a plan for themselves or an immediate family member, but must be the person responsible for organising the purchase. The voucher may not be exchanged for cash. 2. The discount will be deducted from the retail price of the Funeral Plan purchased at time of sale. 3. Only one discount is available per transaction. 4. This voucher has no cash value and may not be used in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. 5. The decision in relation to each discount is final and binding. 6. *Subject also to the terms and conditions of the Funeral Plan purchased.

31/8/2012.

MKT/11/076 7. This discount does not apply when paying for a plan by fixed monthly payments. 8. This voucher is valid until 31.12.

2011. MKT/11/076

£50OFF

Acting for you because your business is our business

Insurance Brokers & Independent Financial Advisers General & Commercial Insurance

Corporate Financial Planning

Investments

Life Assurance

Health Insurance

Pensions

Mortgages

Taxation

At J.C.Roxburgh our guiding principle is to use our knowledge and experience to deliver a personal service and to establish lasting relationships with all our clients.

By understanding their business and marketplace, their personal circumstances and ambitions, we are able to provide relevant, cost-effective solutions to their individual insurance and personal finance requirements.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Glasgow 151 Glasgow Road, Clydebank, G81 1LQ Tel: 0141 952 0371 Fax: 0141 952 0255 Troon 19-21 Ayr Street, Troon KA10 6EB Tel: 01292 314313 Fax: 01292 311362 Website: www.jcroxburgh.co.uk Email: info@jcroxburgh.co.uk

Queens Quay Clydebank Space to start Space to grow Space to expand your business 3 Brand new energy efficient offices 3 Dedicated car parking 3 Shopping and Leisure facilities closeby 3 Flexible leasing arrangements

3 Easy commute by train and bus directly into

Clydebank town centre

3 15 minute drive time to Glasgow International

Airport and M8 motorway

3 20 minute drive time to Glasgow City centre

Serviced Offices - New Offices - Business Plots

0141 951 3420 www.clydebankrebuilt.co.uk