Clyde Life April/May 2017 Issue 35

Clyde Life April/May 2017 Issue 35

Gourock Highland Games

Delivered to over

15,000 Homes

p20

Working Week of our MSP p24 Spring into Fashion p26 I’m

Skelmorlie ■ Wemyss Bay ■ Inverkip ■ Gourock ■ Greenock ■ Port Glasgow ■ Langbank Kilmacolm ■ Quarrier’s ■ Bridge of Weir ■ Brookfield ■ Houston ■ Bishopton

FREE Pick Me Up!

Scotland’s most technologically advanced independently family run garage

HUNTER QUICK CHECK LANE TYRE SCAN / BRAKE PERFORMANCE TYRE INFLATION SYSTEM 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK

FREE

EN E S AS N TV! O

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Tel: 01475 742800 OR JUST POP IN Autologic Diagnostic Manufacturers Mirrored Technology Most major manufacturers including: BMW, Land Rover, Jaguar, Mercedes, Audi, VW, Skoda, Seat, Porche, Renault, Citreon, Peugeot and Volvo

Wheel Straightener

Welding Facilities Available

5 Queen Street, Port Glasgow PA14 5EF | Tel: 01475 742800

www.autotecscotland.co.uk

Find us on Facebook under Autotec Performance and see our virtual tour

2017 Wedding Package Late Availability

£3,950

60 Day Guests | 80 Evening Guests Your ceremony and meal will take place in the stunning surrounds of the Mackintosh Suite, with your evening reception to follow in the Art Lovers Café Bar. Venue hire Ceremony charge Glass of House sparkling for arrival Half bottle of House wine for meal Glass of House wine for toast 3 course menu, tea and coffee Full evening buffet for 80 guests

Master of ceremonies Full table linen Choice of 2 centre pieces Table plan, place cards, menus, table names Dance floor Cake stand and cake knife

Add additional day guests at £50pp | New bookings only, please quote LA2017

Get in touch to find out more about dates and availability.

t: 0141 353 4773 e: weddings@houseforanartlover.co.uk Clyde Life Magazine n

n

w: www.houseforanartlover.co.uk www.clydelife.co.uk | 3

4 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

22

24

30 26

20

Contributors this issue: Ronnie Cowan, Kieran Gallagher, Robert MacDonald, Stuart McMillan, Joanne Simms, Marilyn Thompson, Holly Thompson.

April/May Issue 35 2017 Publisher: Life Magazines & Publications Ltd Editor Charles Briggs

Ronnie Cowan MP

6

Affordable Luxuries

8

Cambridge Weight Plan

13

Are we heading for a fall?

14

Beacon Arts Centre

16

What’s On!

18

Gourock Highland Games

20

Spring Gardening

22

A working week of our MSP

24

Style Files Spring into Fashion

26

Teen Style Files

27

West Coast Disability Centre

28

Cajun Salmon Recipe

30

Front Cover Photo taken at Kilmacolm Show by Arthur Boyle

Features Editor: Joanne Simms joanne@clydelife.co.uk Advertising Sales: Lisa Sanderson lisa@clydelife.co.uk

Contact Info: Editorial: 07788-923054 Advertising: 01505-871962 Email: editor@clydelife.co.uk Web: www.clydelife.co.uk Web Design: tspwebdesign.com Graphic Design: Simon Jones - Skep Design simon.jones@skepdesign.co.uk

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

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

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 5

Just Another Junkie, or Someone in Crisis Recently, I was fortunate enough to visit the offices of Channel 4 television. It is a short walk from Parliament and I had been invited to attend a showing of the new Danny Boyle movie Trainspotting 2. The original Trainspotting was based in Edinburgh in the 1990’s when Scotland’s capital had earned the reputation as the heroin and AIDs capital of Europe. The gritty, hard hitting and graphic depiction of life for four young men struggling to survive was far removed from other mainstream movies of the time. At that time in Edinburgh drug injection for addicts was frowned upon and pharmacists were instructed not to sell needles. The upshot was that addicts shared needles. This simple action of attempting to stamp down on the act of taking drugs rather than addressing the issue of why so many people were injecting led to an increase of infections and deaths. And since then the situation has not improved. In 1995 Scotland’s drug deaths were recorded as 426, by 2015 there were over 700. And along with increased drug abuse there is increased crime and increased pressure on the NHS. Research involving 350 people who inject drugs in Glasgow city centre has indicated that this group costs £1.7 million pounds in Accident and Emergency costs alone, over a two year period.

Trainspotting 2 picks up 20 years after the original and, without wishing to spoil the movie for anyone, remarkably all four main protagonists are still alive. In real life many addicts have died as a result of the damage they inflicted on themselves in previous years, even if they no longer partake.

Different countries have started to adopt different strategies towards drug use. Many are adopting a more tolerant view and are looking at it as a health issue rather than a criminal one. The decriminalisation of drugs allows them to be controlled by governments and takes the power and money away from the criminals. Moves are afoot to introduce self-injection rooms in Glasgow to allow addicts to inject safely under medical supervision.

They also provide additional links to counselling, housing, welfare and health. Schemes such as this already operate in Europe, Australia and Canada. The money spent on rehabilitation is far less than is currently spent on A&E. In Inverclyde we have many selfhelp groups and service providers.

They support users and encourage them to get free of addiction. Other organisations help to bring order to chaotic life styles and provide support pertaining to housing, food and basic necessities.

If we are to address the issue of drug and alcohol abuse we need

Ronnie Cowan MP

to understand the human beings and the conditions they suffer from.

Stamping down hard and locking people up has not worked, a new approach and a new attitude is required. It could provide a solution that all society would benefit from.

After the screening I walked home through the borough of Westminster with its multi million pound properties and as light rain began to get heavier, bedraggled figures huddled in doorways turning their backs on passers-by and their air of superiority.

I wonder if the two Trainspotting movies have helped to change the attitude of many folk towards drug addicts. Have they increased our capability to see human beings in crisis or do we still just see junkies, crack heads, Spud?

If you get the opportunity I would recommend you see Trainspotting 2. It shines a light on an aspect of our society that fortunately many of us will never encounter first hand and helps to remind us all that choosing life isn’t always an easy option.

Local Support Groups Moving On - 01475 735200 The Haven, Kilmacolm 01505 872099 Samaritans of Inverclyde 01475 721212

Ronnie Cowan MP, Member of Parliament for Inverclyde, 20 Crawfurd Street, Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 1LJ @clydelifemag 6 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017 ronnie.cowan.mp@parliament.uk Telephone: 01475 721 877

ADVERTORIAL

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement.

Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace the

whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote.

A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it.

With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Peter Brummitt and he services the Inverclyde and West Renfrewshire areas.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Peter a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 7

A kitchen where the mello

Clyde Life is invited into the high-functioning kitchen for an archit

Affordable Luxuries clients Tony and Marie Buckley wanted their new kitchen to be a family living space where a trained chef could entertain. Now it is the favourite part of their home.

This is a kitchen which has to do a lot of work on so many levels. It must blend into an existing home and become its heart yet at the same time be well-equipped enough to meet the Buckley’s love of entertaining. Tony is a trained chef who owns two catering companies so it had to meet his exacting standards.

The kitchen also had the challenge of providing a perfect foreground for the stunning views from the property.

After talking to the Buckley’s about all that the kitchen must do and the role it would play in family life the Affordable Luxuries team suggested incorporating the under-used dining room and merging it into the existing kitchen diner to make maximum impact.

‘This is a 5,000 sq. ft. house but we live in the kitchen now,’ said Tony.

‘We decided on the walnut block wall panels and dark grey and silver,’ he added.

These reflect the colours in the breath-taking view over the sea to the hills. They are part of the Pronorm Y-Line range, designed with walnut block wall panels and Gloss Stratus Grey and Titanium furniture.

The lighting system plays a vital role. Tom McDonald, managing director of Affordable Luxuries, said, ‘The all-LED lighting scheme is zoned, with ceiling and island down-lights, under-cabinet and pocket-shelf lighting with feature LED colour-changing lighting above the island and wall cabinets, behind the stand-

8 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

A

ince 1999 s s s e n i s u b family @clydelifemag

ow colours match the view

tect-designed home in Gourock created by Affordable Luxuries. alone shelf area and also the TV area. Lighting is such an important aesthetic but one which many people overlook.’

‘It’s one of the best parts of the entire kitchen, absolutely solid!’ he said. ‘Looks like wood but is actually stone.’

The Buckley’s decided on a wide range of Siemens appliances to give them plenty of options and capacity for their entertaining: single steam oven, single oven with microwave, induction hob and a flush-fitted extractor hood over the island. The mid-height built-in fridge and freezer are complemented by a built-under drinks fridge and built-in wine cabinet, along with an integrated dishwasher.

The main Blanco granite sink in white with a Grohe ‘blue’ integrated filter tap is matched with a prep sink on the island with a ‘red’ integrated boiling water tap.

The family chose Consentino’s Dekton 20mm quartz worktops, in the colour Borea, a product which impressed Tony; given his background as a chef he appreciates how important these are not just for the look but also the demanding job they have to do.

‘When you entertain as much as we do two sinks is a far more efficient option,’ said Tony. ‘Those taps are the best things yet – we drink a lot of water and the boiling tap is instant, no need for a kettle.’

‘We enjoy our home and entertaining here is something which gives us great pleasure and this kitchen will be right at the heart of that,’ said Tony.

52 - 54 Regent St, Greenock PA15 4NP | Tel: 01475 727774 | www.affordableluxuries.co.uk Clyde Life Magazine

SILESTONE

by COSENTINO

S

© www.clydelife.co.uk |9 CORIAN

GREENOCK

CRICKET

CLUB

Located at its picturesque ground, ‘Glenpark’, at the junction of Fox Street and Brisbane Street in the west end of the town, Greenock Cricket Club is a thriving sporting venue which, this summer, will see the return of top flight cricket, as the 1stXI once again competes in the WDCU Premier Division.

Currently, three Senior cricket teams are fielded each weekend during the season.

Greenock CC also has a flourishing Junior Cricket section.

Opportunities for young players to take part are available every week from mid-April through until the end of August. Teams are fielded from Under-11 up to Under-18 and younger children under-10 can learn the rudiments of the game by playing at the Club and in Kwik Cricket festivals.

Former international, Tom Black, leads the Junior cricket coaching set up. Each Wednesday during

the season between 6pm and 7.30pm, Tom and assistant coaches, provide the young players with the opportunity to develop their cricketing skills in a safe environment. Parents are encouraged to stay and enjoy the Club facilities and watch their sons and daughters enjoying the sport.

The Club also has two squash courts and recently opened an outdoor, floodlit Multi Use Games Area which can be used by all ages. The Club is open 365 days a year and there is a strong and active social section which enjoys the clubhouse bar, TV lounge and grounds.

On a warm and sunny Saturday afternoon, there are few better places to enjoy watching cricket than at Glenpark. More information can be found at www.greenockcricketclub.com

UNITED

KINGDOM

saturdaY 24 - sunday 25 june Clyde Life 2017 Advert.indd 1

10 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

20/03/2017 09:44

@clydelifemag

“Bringing a fresh accounting perspective to local business.”

GMH Accountantsseek seektoto provide a genuinely service orientated accounting GMHChartered Chartered Accountants provide a genuinely service orientated accounting experience all clients. clients.We Weacknowledge acknowledge importance a business having experience for for all thethe importance of aof business having goodgood financial and foundations foundationsthus thuscreating creating best opportunity forbusiness the business financialadvice advice and thethe best opportunity for the to to succeed you to toachieve achieveyour yourobjectives........ objectives........ succeedand and for for you

CORP TAX

CORP TAX

“Bringing aa fresh “Bringing freshaccounting accountingperspective perspective • Sole trader & partnership accounts toSelf assessment tax returns local business.”

• to local business.”

• •Sole Limited company accounts •Sole trader & trader &partnership partnershipaccounts accounts •Self assessment tax returns •Self & corporation tax assessment tax returns •Limited company accounts and corporation tax company accounts and corporation tax • •Limited Payroll and auto-enrolment •Payroll and auto-enrolment and auto-enrolment •Book-keeping services and VAT • •Payroll Book-Keeping and VAT services •Book-keeping services and VAT •Management accounts • •Management Management accounts accounts •Construction Industry Specialists •Construction Industry Specialists • Construction Industry Specialists All services are offered on either an invoice basis or the more popular monthly fixed fee standing order discounted packages available.

All services are with offered on either an invoice basis or the more popular monthly fixed fee standing order with discounted packages available.

T: 07921 553565

T: 07921 553565

graeme@gmhaccounting.co.uk graeme@gmhaccounting.co.uk T: 07921 553565www.gmhaccounting.co.uk St. James Business Centre, Linwood Road, Paisley PA3 3AT graeme@gmhaccounting.co.uk www.gmhaccounting.co.uk www.gmhaccounting.co.uk

St. James Business Centre, Linwood Road, Paisley PA3 3AT

St. James Business Centre, Linwood Road, Paisley PA3 3AT

Patios, Driveways, Decking Fencing, Stump Grinding Grass & Hedge Cutting Water Features & more..

www.3dgardendesign.co.uk

Clyde Life Did you know that we also deliver flyers?

Prices start from £40/thousand.

Email editor@clydelife.co.uk to see how we can help your business.

Clyde Life Magazine

Carpet, Upholstery and Rug cleaning

Oven cleaning

Drive & Patio cleaning Tel: 01475 793193 M: 07758 163902 www.clydelife.co.uk | 11

Help is at Hand as your Life changes Woodside Care Home is a 19 bedroom Residential Home situated in the beautiful conservation village of Quarriers, just outside Bridge of Weir. Visitors are always made welcome.

The Home is registered with The Care Inspectorate for the regulation of care.

• • • •

Residential Elderly Long Stay Short Stay Convalescent Respite

To request a brochure or to arrange a visit please contact the manager

Fiona Summers ~ 01505 613370 Yvonne Calvert Chiropodist Podiatrist NEW PREMISES 3 Newton Street Greenock PA16 8UH For all your foot problems.

Appointments Tel:

01475 727373

www.chiropodistpodiatrist.co.uk Toe nail cutting Drop-in Service Tuesday 2-4pm.

12 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

Need to lose weight? just ask Judy The Cambridge Weight Plan, based on NHS research and decades of development is an ideal way to lose weight once and for all says Judy Henderson.

She did and she’ll help you too!

LOSING weight - and more importantly keeping that weight off once and for all - can seem like a tough job and a lonely one at that, but don’t worry because you’ve got a friend.

Judy Henderson of Langbank has walked that walk. Six years ago she lost three stone in three months and she has kept that weight off, thanks to the Cambridge Weight Plan and she will take you by the hand and talk you through that same walk.

‘Cambridge Weight Plan changed my life and can change yours too,’ said Judy. She was so amazed at her success after years of yo-yo dieting that she decided to train as a consultant.

Originally known as the Cambridge Diet, the Cambridge Weight Plan can trace its roots back to the 1950s, when biochemist Dr Alan Howard studied weight loss and obesity. During the 1970s he worked with Dr Ian McLeanBaird, of the West Middlesex

Hospital; their aim was to create a formula food with excellent weight loss properties but no undesirable side effects.

The food products in today’s plan are backed with advice and support from consultants like Judy who train with Cambridge Weight Plan tutors to help people choose the best use of the plan and support them each step of the way.

‘When I was dieting my consultant quickly became my good friend and her help, support and advice always got me through. I am now helping people in the same way, with one-to-one meetings,’ said Judy.

‘I understand. I struggled with my weight and tried every diet known to man over the years; my weight

CAMBRIDGE WEIGHT PLAN SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW CLIENTS. £5 OFF PER WEEK FOR THE FIRST 4 WEEKS IF YOU REGISTER WITH ME IN APRIL!

went up and down and I’d never managed to maintain the losses until the Cambridge Weight Plan. It helped me understand and change my eating habits.

‘It just takes that first step, some willpower and then I will do everything I can to keep you on track. The plan is so easy to follow and the results are quick.

Cambridge Weight Plan gave me back my confidence and selfesteem and the courage to meet my husband.

Judy gives a free consultation and works on a diet plan that will work for each person and help them achieve their goals.

‘I have private evening consultations in my comfortable home office in Langbank or can offer a free mobile service. I also have weekend consultations available in Dunoon.

What have you got to lose? It was the best decision I ever made, give me a call and start your journey today! xxx

Judy Henderson

074882 39577 judy.henderson70@btinternet.com http://www.cambridgeweightplan.com/consultants/25566/1/judy-h Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 13

Are we heading

for a fall?

By Robert MacDonald

American and European markets have been reaching new highs. We asked finance guru Robert MacDonald if this signals the time for investors to cash out?

Successful investing is not about ‘market timing’ but is all about ‘time in the market’.

If the level of an index by itself does not have a bearing on future returns, what does?

It has been proven many times by Noble Prize-winning economists that it is virtually impossible to spot mis-priced securities and equally so when to come into, or get out of, the market.

One way to understand the current value of an investment is to estimate its future cash flows and calculate their value today. This type of valuation method allows expectations about a company’s future profits to be linked to its current stock price through a ‘discount rate’ and is equal to an investor’s expected return - showing that the expected return from holding a stock is driven by a combination of the price paid and what investors expect to receive.

One thing that can help investors hugely is to have global portfolios; this is even more important for UK investors with the impending ‘Brexit’ History tells us a great deal about market indexes at alltime highs.

Look at the performance of the MSCI World Index for the better part of the last half-century.

From 1970 to 2016 (see graph), the proportion of annual returns that have been positive after a new monthly high is similar to the proportion that have been positive after any index level.

Almost a third of the monthly observations were new closing highs. It is clear that new index highs were not useful predictors of future returns.

Stock prices are the result of the interactions of many willing buyers and sellers.

It is extremely unlikely that willing buyers of stock apply negative discount rates to the expected profits of the firms they are purchasing. If they did, it would imply they expect a negative return on investment. If this were the case, why would they buy at all?

It is reasonable to assume that the price of a stock, or the price of a basket of stocks like the MSCI

The views in this article are personal and provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as recommendation by the publisher or investment advice by the contributor as laid down by the Financial Conduct authority.

T: 01475 638100 | www.macdonaldandco.com

“Bespoke Financial Planning for your Future” MacDonald & Co is a trading style of MacDonald & Co (Wealth Management) Ltd which is authortised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

14 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

World Index, should be set to a level at which its expected return is positive, regardless of whether or not that price level is at a new high.

not, on average, been followed by negative returns. At a new high, low or in between expected returns are positive.

It is important to distinguish between expected and realised returns.

Trying to ‘guess’ when markets are going to fall is very difficult; statistically and historically there have been many more rises than falls over time.

Changes in risk aversion, tastes and preferences, expectations about future profits, or the quantity of risk, can all drive changes in expected returns.

This helps explain why new index highs have

The key is to remember that sentiment moves markets in the short term, not the underlying value, be it stocks or bonds. Capitulate at your peril!

Scotland’s Gardens Kilmacolm Open Days Highwood, Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm, PA13 4TA. Take B786 Lochwinnoch Road out of Kilmacolm and continue for approximately two miles then follow SG signs. From Lochwinnoch take B786 Kilmacolm road for approximately six miles, then follow SG signs.

Open Sunday 14 May 2:00pm - 5:00pm for Bluebells, Donations welcome, Orkidstudio receives 40%.

Bridge of Weir Road Gardens, Kilmacolm

Beechwood, Larchmount and Shieldhall , PA13 4NN. The 3 gardens are within 50 yards of each other on the Bridge of Weir Road in the middle of Kilmacolm. Signage will be up on the day.

Open Sunday 21 May 2:00pm - 5:00pm, admission to all three £4, 40% proceeds to Ardgowan Hospice.

Duchal, Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm, PA13 4RS. On the B788 one mile from Kilmacolm (this road links B786 Lochwinnoch Road and A761 Bridge of Weir Road) Greenock/Glasgow bus via Bridge of Weir.

Knapps Loch stop is a ¼ mile from garden.

Open Saturday 15 July 2:00pm - 5:00pm, admission £5.00, 40% proceeds to Ardgowan Hospice.

More information about the Renfrewshire District Gardens on the website www.scotlandsgardens.org Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 15

16 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 17

CLASSES | GROUPS | AND LOCAL CLUBS Clyde Life publishes details of classes, groups and clubs located within the magazine distribution area.

If you are looking for new members or want to publicise an event please let us know.

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

Health and Wellbeing Classes YogaBellies Children’s Yoga Classes for 3-12 years.

Contact Enterprise Training on: 01475 745552/744404 admin@enteprisetraining.scot www.yogabellies.co.uk/children Yoga and Meditation for all levels Teacher: Jacci Stoyle YS (reg) jacci@stoylehome.freeserve.co.uk 07790262124 Wed 7:00-8.30pm Boglestone Community Centre, Dubbs Rd, Port Glasgow Yoga for all levels Teacher: Aileen Hughes, YS (reg.)

01475 801613 aileenhughes@btinternet.com Mon 2-3.30pm & Tue 2-3.30pm Westburn Church, Nelson Street, Greenock.

Hatha Yoga for all levels Teacher: Flora MacKenzie fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk Wed 7-8pm Lyle Kirk, Union Street Wed 8-9pm Beginners Class, same venue Thu 2-3pm Inverkip Community Centre Birsay Yoga Teacher: Joanna Ritchie, 07518 373 073 | Email birsayholistics@gmail.com Gourock: Tues 9:30am and

18 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

7.30pm | Thurs 6pm Inverkip: Wed 7:45pm Largs: Mon 6:15pm | Thurs 9:30am and 7:30pm | Sat 10:30am Yoga for all levels Instructor: Jacqueline Gibson 07851 735357 | Email jacqueline_a_g@hotmail.com Tues 9.30-10.30am Fri 9.30-10.30am All in Kilmacolm Yoga for all levels Instructor: Patricia A. Ralston T: 01475 785685 E: contact@healthyoutlook.co.uk F: HealthyOutlookGreenock Tues 7.45 - 9.15pm Finnart St Pauls Church Hall, Bentinck Street, Greenock.

Beginners Yoga Instructor: Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950 Tues & Thurs 10:00 to 11:30 Freeland Church, Bridge of Weir Thurs 7:00p-8:30pm Scout Hall, Horsewood Road, Bridge of Weir Pilates (all levels) Instructor - Jenn Forbes 07713 643693 hello@forbespilates.com forbespilates Small Classes at The Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock.

Weds: Beginners & Improvers 6pm New Beginners 7pm Mixed Intermediate 8pm

Mats & Equipment provided.

Classes are £9 drop-in or guaranteed space in the 6-week block £48.

Katie Black Pilates and Physiotherapy) Instructor - Katie Black katiescotts@hotmail.com Killellan Halls, Houston (behind the Houston & Killellan kirk).

Monday night 6.15-7.15 and 7.30-8.30

Other Classes Ballet – Elite Academy of Dance Inverclyde’s only Royal Academy Ballet School www.theeliteacademyofdance.co.uk Classes every day | all ages for both Male and Female The Studio, 15a Watt Street, Greenock Silver Swans Ballet Royal Academy of Dance Classical Ballet for the over 50s www.silverswansballet.co.uk Tuesday and Thursdays 11am – 12pm The Studio, 15a Watt Street, Greenock The Fashion Class Fashion Courses for children & teens, age 8-15.

Call Marilyn Thompson on 07793 591524 or visit www.thefashionclass.co.uk for more information. @clydelifemag

Scottish Country Dancing Classes Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Scottish Country Dancing Classes are run at the Elim Pentecostal Church Hall, Kelly Street, Greenock on Monday evenings at 8pm.

Contact Jennifer Murrin 01475 633096 for more information

Local Clubs, Groups & Events MS Activities Group Meet Thursday 11am-1pm Your Voice 12 Clyde Square, Greenock, PA15 1NB Everybody welcome, MS sufferers, and their carers for a cuppa and a chat. For more information, contact Stuart Anderson, 01475 630553 Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Games Society (RIGS) A friendly group of board and card game enthusiasts who meet every fortnight on Thursday evenings at the upstairs café bar of Amaretto in Bridge of Weir. For the date of the next meeting and contact information please visit rigs.scot or contact Keith on 07789 501605 Digital Camera Club Langbank Church Hall Meets 2nd & 4th Mondays of the month at 7:30pm Cost: £1 entry fee (FREE for Trial visits) All new members welcome.

For more Info please visit www. www.Langbankcameraclub. weebly.com or contact Derrick McPherson at Langbankcc1@gmail.com Greenock Camera Club Every Thursday at 7:30pm at Greenock Cricket Club, Brisbane Street, Greenock Anyone with an interest in photography, no matter your experience level is welcome Contact Heather Sinclair, greenockcc.comp@gmail.com 07903 164227 www.greenockcameraclub.com Kilmacolm Camera Club Every Tuesday at 7.30pm Kilmacolm New Community Centre, Room 1.01 Contact David Walker 01505 873883 for more information Clyde Life Magazine

Inverclyde Camera Club Every Friday at 7.30pm Cardwell Bay Sailing Club, Cove Road, Gourock Ann-Marie Westwood on 07971607453 inverclydecameraclub@live.com

distance of Greenock. Walks are arranged for most weekends There is also a Wednesday walk which meets at Lunderston Bay on Wednesdays at 12:15 Dave Souza on 01475 631654 www.inverclyderamblers.org.uk

Fort Matilda Bridge Club Meets Mon, Tues & Fri 7pm Visitors always welcome Tarbet Street, Gourock (turn right at Bluebird cafe on the main road. The club is on the right hand side opposite ‘Duncan’s Ices’) Ann MacLeod (Secretary): 01475 522181 annmacleod@btinternet.com

Spring & End of Season Plant Sale The Cross, Kilmacolm 22nd April 10am-12pm Entry is free & donations are welcome.

Parklea “Branching Out” receives 40%, the net remaining to Scotland’s Gardens Beneficiaries

Greenock Speakers Club Ardgowan Square, Greenock Helps people improve their public speaking skills in a friendly environment. The Club meets fortnightly on alternative Thursdays from October to April within the Ardgowan Club, 7:30-10:00pm Tony Cowden on 01475 783228 or by email at tony.cowden@ntlworld.com.

Greenock Writers Club Ardgowan Square, Greenock The club meets most Wednesdays from the middle of September from 7.30pm to 9.30pm with a break for tea and coffee. They are a small group affiliated to the Scottish Association of Writers’, who enjoy the chat and fun activities as much as the writing.

Mark Jones on 01475 713413.

Inverclyde Skywatchers There is a programme of weekly talks which are given by invited guest speakers.

Anyone with an interest in Astronomy is welcome.

The group meet in the Greenock Southwest Library (Barrs Cottage) every Monday from 3pm till 5pm.

Marion on 01475 634976 inverclydeskywatchers@aol.co.uk Inverclyde Ramblers Inverclyde Ramblers’ Association is a group of people who enjoy walking in the countryside.

Everyone is welcome, whatever age or level of fitness.

Most of the walks are within driving

Local Sports Clubs Fort Matilda Bowling Club Newark Street, Greenock We welcome anyone interested in trying bowling.

Drop in for mixed bowling, Saturday 2pm | Gents Monday 7pm | Ladies Wednesday 2pm Try for free - April till September.

Flat shoes without heels required.

Bowls supplied E: fmbowlingclub@hotmail.co.uk Web Site - fortmatildabowlingclub. weebly.com Club Mobile - 07549 994 669 Fort Matilda Tennis Club Newark Street, Greenock The Club has four artificial grass courts Club Website: www.fortmatildatennis.org The Ardgowan Club Ardgowan Square, Greenock The club has 2 bowling greens and 4 all-weather surface tennis courts www.ardgowanclub.co.uk Gilbert McCracken or Dougie Warnock 01475 723418 Kilmacolm Bowling Club The club is open for bowling from April to October. It is open to all ages.

Coaching and bowls available for those who have not played before.

Contact Jim Russell 01505 874239 kilmacolmbowlingclub@gmail.com www.clydelife.co.uk | 19

Let the Games commence!

Gourock Highland Games, now in its 61st year, is celebrating its second year in its new home at Battery Park. It will take place on Sunday 14th May and starts at 12 noon. The event is free and everyone is welcome.

The Games, which have historically been held at Gourock Park, will now take place permanently in nearby Battery Park which sits on the banks of the Clyde and straddles Gourock and Greenock.

The Gourock Highland Games is the first games on the Scottish calendar and is considered the first run out for many pipe bands

20 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

across Scotland before the major championships.

The event includes pipe band championships, traditional highland games and ‘heavyweight‘ events, the West of Scotland Highland Dance Championships and junior highland games involving local school children.

There will be fairground rides, children’s activities, vintage fire engines and a wide selection of food on offer. Together with local and community stalls, there will be something for everyone.

The Games open to the public at 12 noon and hopefully the wonderful weather of 2016 will be repeated.

The Chieftain, Douglas Rae MBE will open the games and the various activities will commence. The pipe band championships take place throughout the afternoon, there are a number of trophies to be won and people travel from all over Scotland to take part.

The Highland Dancing will show displays from all age groups. This

is the West of Scotland Dance Championships so competition is tough. Come along and support the local girls and boys.

The ‘heavyweight’ events will start at 12.45pm and will display the traditional games, including putting the stone etc and finish at approx.

4pm with Tossing the Caber. There will be an opportunity for members of the public to try their hand and show off their skills. The local school children’s mini games will take place in the Astroturf pitches from 12 noon.

The afternoon finishes at 5.30pm with a march past of the pipe bands. We hope it will be a great day for all. www.gourockhighlandgames.com @GourockHGames

@clydelifemag

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 21

No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.

I think spring has to be my favourite season of the year, although I can sometimes be heard to say autumn. This is partly because of the gardening calendar, but also because these two seasons are the least to be affected by the weather.

In the west of Scotland summers can come and go in the blink of an eye and winters, as far as I am concerned, can be quite grim without any snow to brighten things up.

Whilst autumn will always keep a place in my heart for bountiful crops and stunning hardwood foliage, spring marks the beginning of the year for me. The nights are brighter, the temperatures are beginning to climb to something more bearable and no amount of inclement weather will stop nature from pushing ahead.

Firstly, a small application of a general purpose granular fertiliser like growmore in late February will help your bulbs get off to a good start. Obviously, it is too late for that this year, but worth bearing in mind for next year.

A liquid feed can be applied to bulbs that are in growth or flower. It is normally not necessary, but can be advantageous to bulbs that are planted in containers and tubs. These have a limited amount of nutrients and feed available to them. For this purpose a liquid feed that has a good level of potassium is best as it will promote continued flowering. Tomato food is as good as anything else here and once every week or two should suffice.

Bulbs that have finished flowering should be left in the soil until all the foliage has died back to ground level. This means the bulb is dormant for the year and can either be lifted to be stored or cut back to tidy up the appearance.

As both the air and soil temperatures increase we can start to think about adding colour to the garden in the form of spring and summer bedding plants. These are cheap to purchase, easy to grow and care for and will supply abundant crops of flowers until the first frosts of autumn.

March saw the first daffodils begin to bloom and April will see hedges, shrubs, trees and lawns come to life.

Most pruning of perrenials should already be done, but if you are late then you should only remove the smallest amount you can, so as not to damage this year’s growth. This will always be a risk of late pruning.

You should not prune any flowering shrubs just now as this will almost certainly ruin any chance of a good display.

Spring flowering bulbs are great at this time of year. A common question we get at Cardwell Garden Centre concerns the feeding of bulbs. There are two ways that fertiliser can be applied to bulbs that are planted in the ground or containers.

By Kieran Gallagher

The versatility of bedding plants has made them a staple favourite of almost all gardens and the choice of shape, sizes and colours of flowers guarantees that the most fussy of horticulturists can find something to make them smile.

April is too early to plant the softer bedding plants without some protection from overnight dips in temperature, but the addition of frost protection fleece can negate the effect. Likewise, hanging baskets are susceptible to air frosts, more common than ground frost in Spring.

There are still plenty of half hardy bedding and annuals that can brighten up the darkest are of the garden, though, and a trip to Cardwell will surely inspire you.

Make sure to speak to Brian or Cheryl for advice suited to your needs.

Lastly, use the last of the quiet time to plan and prepare your planting arrangement. Think about what you want to achieve and using what plants. Choose contrasting heights and foliage and arrange them from the perspective they will be viewed, ie put the short and trailing plants at the front and tall or climbing plants to the rear.

22 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

We have the whole of Spring and summer ahead of us, @clydelifemag folks. Let us hope for a good one.

SPRING AT CARDWELL Cardwell Exclusive Deal

*limited stock, don’t miss out!*

JACKS MAGIC MULTI PURPOSE COMPOST RRP £5.99

BUY 3 FOR ONLY £12.00

NOW STOCKING LAWNMOWERS AND POWER TOOLS!

BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY Cardwell’s Breakfast with the Easter Bunny is great value at only £8.95 and places can be booked by phoning 01475 521536. Breakfast includes a hot or cold filled, roll, juice, a cookie and a chocolate Easter egg.

There’s lots more Easter activities at Cardwell, visit our website for more information.

STANDARD DELIVERY TO INVERCLYDE £6.50, RENFREWSHIRE £12.50 AND GLASGOW £17.50

Lunderston Bay, Gourock, Inverclyde, PA19 1BB 01475 521 536 Clyde Life Magazine

www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk www.clydelife.co.uk | 23

A Glimpse into the Working Week of our MSP Stuart McMillan MSP Hello and thank you for reading the first of my columns I will be writing for ‘Clyde Life’. Being the first, I wanted to give readers a brief overview of what it is like to be the MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde and what my normal working week entails.

Monday – the first of two days in the constituency, I tend to meet constituents by appointment as well as those who pop in to my office. I operate an open door policy. I am always keen to be out and about as much as possible meeting people so if you don’t find me in the office on a Monday, you’ll most likely see me visiting a local constituent, business, third sector or public sector organisation.

Tuesday – I am the Deputy Convener of the Delegated Powers and Law Reform Committee (DPLR) and this meets every Tuesday morning. Every piece of legislation goes through this committee. It is an essential function of Parliament. Later that day, I normally attend meetings and make my way to the chamber to either speak in the debate or listen to the contributions. As with Wednesdays and Thursdays, there are a number of events at lunchtime and in the

Stuart McMillan MSP Member of Scottish Parliament for Greenock & Inverclyde Constituency

26 Grey Place, Greenock PA15 1YF Tel: 01475 720 930 E: stuart.mcmillan.msp@parliament.scot

24 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

evening which I am invited too. I try and attend as many of these as I can.

Wednesday – I don’t have a committee in the morning so I am normally free to catch up on emails and other tasks from the last few days. At the time of writing, Wednesday 22nd March, this afternoon I am asking a question on regeneration in Inverclyde and speaking in the Article 30 Debate.

Thursday – my day tends to begin with the Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Relations Committee (CTEER). This committee has taken up a lot of my time in recent months as we have been taking evidence and producing a number of reports on the impact of Brexit.

Following the committee at 12 noon it is First Minister’s Questions. There is then a debate in the afternoon.

Friday – Friday tends to be the same as Monday, however on the last Friday or every month I hold regular surgeries currently in Port Glasgow and Gourock.

This first column provides an overview of my working week but I will provide other information about motions, questions and projects that I am involved with.

Open door policy at the office, Monday to Friday, 9am till 5pm.

Surgeries: Last Friday of the month

(excluding July & December, contact office for details)

10am Port Glasgow Library 1pm Gourock Library The costs of this advert have been met from Parliamentary resources.

@clydelifemag

The Puppy & Kitten Practice

Up to 45% off

vaccination packages PAISLEY 71 Canal Street, Paisley PA1 2HP Tel: 0141 887 4111

GREENOCK 54 Murdieston Street, Greenock PA15 4HU Tel: 01475 721155

www.abbey-vetgroup.co.uk

AbbeyVetGroup

Exclusive Gift Shop, Bridge of Weir The Lion’s Paw Gift shop in Bridge of Weir has a large selection of interesting and unusual gifts for your family or friends or a little treat for yourself - Birthdays, Anniversaries, new babies, holidays, house warmings - we will have something for you!

Our shop is opposite Gibb Stuart and is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm. Come in and see us!

1 Morrison Place, Main Street, Bridge of Weir PA11 3NU T: 01505 614 699 | E: alison@thelionspaw.co.uk | www.thelionspaw.co.uk

Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 25

theStyle files

by Marilyn Thompson

Spring into

fashion

It’s time.....to ditch the winter woollies, the puffa coats, the Pom Pom hats and the wellies, (ok, maybe not the wellies just yet).....because, believe it or not, Spring is here! Hallelujah!

To help you embrace the milder weather and to entice you with clothes that hint at the faint promise of a Summer still to come, here is a quick roundup of some of the most wearable top trends for Spring/Summer 2017 and what you should be investing in.

STRIPES It’s for sure - you’re going to be seeing stripes absolutely everywhere and this is no bad thing.

From masculine pinstripes to girly candy stripes, there’s a stripe for everyone. On trend, functional and flattering - what’s not to like! My particular favourites are the forever popular Breton striped sweaters and t-shirts and the striped, easy to wear wide leg trousers which are very elegant.

26 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

FLORALS Nothing groundbreaking here I know but a perennial favourite has been upgraded and brought right up to date with designers going for head to toe looks in bold, eye catching, bright floral prints.

Cute little flower prints these are not, these florals are more of the look at me variety which although undoubtedly a statement look, is also really very pretty. You don’t need to take it to extremes though, one beautifully bold flower print under a bright lighter weight spring coat would definitely hit the mark.

BRIGHTS Super bright colours ruled the runways and will start filling the shops with their exuberant hues.

The “brights”, as well as running through the other featured trends- the stripes and florals, are particularly bold and glamorous as a solid colour block on their own.

Shocking bright pink was the most used colour with electric blue, peacock green and sunny yellow close behind. These bright colours are so beautiful and will add a welcome pop of pure colour to any outfit. If you prefer, why not go instead for a lovely bright colour pop shoe - they will put a spring in your step for sure!

If you find yourself now in the mood to make some pretty Spring purchases, go dig out something other than your winter coat and hit the shops. Let’s not go mad and throw all caution to the wind though, it’s probably a good idea to take your umbrella and your pom pom hat!

Clyde Life Magazine

The teen STYLE Files

Metallic Tailoring

Flashes of metallic tailoring have appeared on fashion runways all over. From shiny oversized jackets and sleek silver and bronze trousers to shimmering short suits. Whether you want to make a bold statement in a head to toe metallic outfit or just slot in some metallics with your neutrals, it’s time to mix up your basic tailoring template with some metallic magic.

Fashion & Beauty

NOTES

Had a few late nights? No one has to know! Freshen and revitalise your eyes with this super 2 step eye kit from “Yes To”.

Grab this beauty bargain from Boots now!

Outlandishly coloured hair was a S/S 2017 catwalk hit.

To follow this trend you don’t have to take the plunge with permanently dyed hair, you can now just use the new L’oreal Colorista 1 Day Colour sprays!

HAIR

With most designers featuring stripes in their collections, it has really filtered into the high street, your biggest decision will be choosing vertical or horizontal stripes or, you could go really crazy and mix and match both! Keep your body shape in mind though and use the stripes to your best advantage.

GADGET

Tweezy wearable nail polish bottle holder www.tweexy.com

• Do accessorise simply • Do wear with poise • Do feature a pop of colour • Don’t wear ill fitting pieces • Don’t forget to do up your top button!

Your Fashion Questions Answered?

Do - Emma Watson Don’t - Leighton Meester

Q - Hi Holly, I want to follow the new spring trends but don’t want to spend tonnes of money, how can I use the clothes I already have? Ellen A - Hi Ellen, without seeing your wardrobe that could be a bit tricky, but luckily enough mismatched prints are another key s/s 2017 trend! Why not try combining a few different patterned pieces you already have and see if you like the end look! H x Get in touch - To learn more about The FASHION Class for teens & children, the courses, camps and Birthday parties, or to tell me what you think and ask any questions, contact: holly@thefashionclass.co.uk or www.thefashionclass.co.uk www.clydelife.co.uk

| 27

Yes you can... and we can help you do it!

West Coast DISABILITY CENTRE

Get the West Coast Disability Centre’s expertise in mobility and independent living behind you IT IS all about ability – the ability to live your life to the full; the ability to live independently and the ability of your family to have peace of mind, knowing you have the best available aids.

At West Coast Disability Centre the staff are dedicated to empowering and enabling their customers to live life to the best of their ability, what ever their age, whatever their circumstances. At 23 Bath Street, Largs, and on their website www. westcoastdisabilitycentre.com they have an impressive range on offer to bring quality design to your quality of life.

‘If we have not got it we can source it!’ said Sharlene Lennox who along with manager Scott McGoogan forms the core of the West Coast Disability Team.

28 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

‘A product we are currently getting a lot of positive feed back on is our

And when Sharlene says they deliver, she means it; a child’s buggy from West Coast Disability is now in Mexico, via Paris.

‘The customer was from Mexico and wanted this specialised buggy for his child and he sourced it to us. We could get him the buggy but we couldn’t get a courier to take it to him in Mexico and so the customer was going to be in Paris on business and we arranged to take the buggy to the hotel where the customer was staying.’

West Coast Disability’s skilled staff have experience of helping so many people and their knowledge of the range and quality of products on the market makes for a near tailor-made experience.

There are the major items such as mobility scooters, wheelchairs, stair lifts and bath lifts and hoists, right down to stylish, ergonomically-designed cutlery and crockery, by way of personal care, footwear, clothing and equipment for lifting and handling people.

That vast range of products is backed by a first-class, can-do service, which makes West Coast Disability Centre the first choice for so many people.

scooter provider, and the Dr Keller range of shoes and slippers.

Choice is another keyword at West Coast Disability Centre because no two people are alike and while they might need the same aid they need a good selection to choose from to meet their own individual likes – it is all about what feels best for you.

The top companies they deal with include: Celebrity motion furniture for its rise and recliners; Companion bathrooms through whom you can get a bathroom suited to your needs; Acorn stairlifts, Kymco, West Coast Disability’s mobility

rise and recliners from Celebrity motion furniture,’ said Sharlene, ‘we are also now selling e-bikes which are generating a lot of interest.’

Under new management since last year, an important part of the regeneration of the business is community involvement. West Coast is helping to fit-out one of the caravans for the Glasgow Children’s Holiday Scheme at Weymss Bay; the range of aids and equipment for children and their care-givers is something upon which the centre prides itself.

Call in and see for yourself; visit their website, telephone or email and experience the expertise of West Coast Disability Centre. @clydelifemag

West Coast DISABILITY CENTRE

Keeping the Community Mobile

23 Bath Street, Largs KA30 8BL Tel: 01475 673190 Email: info@westcoastdisabilitycentre.com www.westcoastdisabilitycentre.com Clyde Life Magazine

OPEN Monday-Saturday 9.30am - 6pm Sunday 12-4pm www.clydelife.co.uk | 29

Salmon season Something for the start of the salmon season in May and preferably using fresh Scottish salmon.

Alternatively you can substitute the salmon for a pork loin, lamb chop or boneless chicken thigh.

Cajun Salmon

With Sesame Egg Noodles & Straw Vegetables Ingredients x1 Scottish Salmon Fillet (skin on ) Flaked sea salt Cajun Spice Oil for frying

For the Noodles Medium egg noodles Salt Toasted sesame oil

For the Veg Finely sliced onion Fresh green/red chillies Squeeze of lime juice 2 cloves garlic Fine trimmed bean Grated Carrot 2 whole spring onions (sliced lengthways) fresh coriander - finely chopped

Boil a pot of water for the noodles, add a little salt and oil. Once it is boiling away add the noodles (takes 6-7 mins on average).

Heat the frying pan until it is smoking and add the oil. Sear the salmon skin side down until it’s really crispy.

Place the salmon and oil in an oven proof dish with the skin facing up and sprinkle cajun spice and a dash of lemon juice.

Whilst the salmon is cooking in the oven its time to make the vegetables and remove the noodles (bake at a medium heat for 10 mins).

Remove the noodles by placing them into a colander and just drain, leave to dry naturally for 5 mins.

Using the same frying pan, heat back up and add the onions, brown quickly and add the garlic and remainder of the vegetables with the lime juice.

Check the salmon by using a temperature probe and ensue it is a minimum of 75 degrees at the thickest point.

Once drained - using a fork roll the noodles and place on a plate.

Drizzle a little sesame oil on top, place the veg on top and finish by adding the salmon on top.

To just finish the dish add the coriander and drizzle some sweet chilli.

Enjoy!

The Chefs Eye is a new small and intimate brasserie style restaurant based in Nelson Street, Largs.

With an explosion of flavours and spices the cuisine ranges from your traditional Scottish Fayre to the Far East. The menus change regularly keeping things fresh, seasonal and exciting.

The fully licensed restaurant is open for select hours which can be viewed online or on Facebook. It is also available for private dining events and functions.

Visit www.chefseye.co.uk to sign up for the online newsletter or call 01475 673215 or email: reservations@chefseye.co.uk to book a table.

30 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag

Suite 1 The Old Mill Houston PA6 7AW

Tel 01505 614419

Open 6 days Monday to Friday (10am-5pm), Saturday (10am – 3pm)

www.alvicslidingwardrobes.co.uk We offer fully fitted with interiors, or doors only (DIY) & all trade welcome

Superior Systems at smart prices designed for you| Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk 31

Food with a View!

• New Menu • New Chefs • Open 7 days for food & drinks from 10am

EASTER SUNDAY Sunday 16th April

TWO COURSES

£14.95

Mr B Loon - balloon twister! 1pm-5pm Kids uring Menu & Kid’s colo £5.95 competitions

The Scottish Food Market at Kip Marina Sunday 23rd April 11am– 4pm

Treat your tastebuds at Kip Marina’s Food Market Whether it’s a sweet tooth you want to satisfy, catch some fine fish or take home some magnificent Scottish meat then join us on Sunday 23rd April between 11am & 4pm.

www.kipmarina.co.uk Satnav postcode PA16 0BF

Call 01475 520919 thechartroom.co.uk

32 | Clyde Life – April/May 2017

@clydelifemag