Clyde Life Magazine February/March 2018

Clyde Life February/March 2018 Issue 40

Mothering Sunday, Let’s make a day of it! p28

National Bird Box Week p24

We only have one planet p10 Delivered to over

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Live Events

WATERFRONT cinema

10 Custom House Way Greenock PA15 1EG

General tickets £15 & £13 concession

See Adrian Edmonson & Kara Tointon and the full RSC cast in this critically acclaimed production of Twelfth Night with the one you love on Valentine’s Day. Twelfth Night is a tale of unrequited love – hilarious and heartbreaking. Twins are separated in a shipwreck, and forced to fend for themselves in a strange land. The first twin, Viola, falls in love with Orsino, who dotes on OIivia, who falls for Viola but is idolised by Malvolio. Enter Sebastian, who is the spitting image of his twin sister...

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Give you mum an extra special Mother’s Day Treat and see Jennifer Saunders, Samantha Spiro and Kevin Bishop bring the Oscar Wilde classic to life on stage.

LadyWindermere’s Fan

by Oscar Wilde

20th MARCH at 7pm General Tickets £15

The day of Lady Windermere’s birthday party and all is perfectly in order. Until her friend Lord Darlington plants a seed of suspicion. Is her husband having an affair?

And will the other woman really attend the party?

Clyde Life Magazine www.clydelife.co.uk | 3 Tickets available through box office (01475 732201) or online at www.waterfrontcinema.co.uk

Belhaven Blog Looking after that smile ‘Gum disease’ is the term used to describe inflammation of the gums. It may present as swollen, red gums or bleeding when brushing.

fluoride toothpaste, and either flossing or using interdental brushes.

Gum disease is reversible if treated. However, if left untreated it can develop into further problems potentially leading to pain, mobile teeth, and tooth loss.

Research has proven the benefit of using an electric toothbrush over a manual toothbrush. The action of an electric toothbrush is up to two times more effective at removing plaque.

Two main factors increase the risk of gum disease: smoking and poor oral hygiene. Oral hygiene is essential to remove plaque which harbours gum damaging bacteria. Oral hygiene includes effectively brushing your teeth and gums twice a day with

It can be daunting to know which is the right toothbrush or interdental aid to buy, and how to use it. Please ask us at Belhaven for advice on which we would recommend for your specific needs.

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New Private and NHS Patients welcome We are a friendly, family focussed dental practice based in Port Glasgow providing a high quality service to all our patients in a friendly and caring environment.

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Belhaven Dental Surgery, 2 Scarlow Street, Port Glasgow PA14 5EY Tel: 01475 741186 | Email: info@belhavendentalsurgery.co.uk | www.belhavendentalsurgery.co.uk 4 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

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28

24

“We only have one planet” Ronnie Cowan MP

10

“Ready Set Go…” – Style Files

14

Teen Style Files

15

Gardening column Climate is what we expect, weather is what we get!

18

Win Rosemary Beaton’s book

20

National Bird Box Week

24

Local Clubs and Classes

26

Mothering Sunday, Let’s Make a Day of it

28

The Chartroom’s Cullen Skink

30

Contributors this issue: Kieran Gallagher, Joanne Simms, Marilyn Thompson, Holly Thompson

February/March Issue 40 2018 Publisher: Life Magazines & Publications Ltd Editor Charles Briggs

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

6 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

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We only have one planet and we need it more than it needs us.

Environmental issues are not a new thing. We have always had decisions to make regarding how we dispose of waste. And we have come a long way from the days of human effluence being thrown out of windows onto the streets of Edinburgh. Garde Loo, is no longer deemed sufficient.

Pollution has manifested itself in many ways but some types are more obvious than others.

Air pollution dates back to the days of Ancient Rome. The first clean air act was in 535 AD. Yet in 1952 there was the great smog of London, 4,000 people died as a direct result and four years later the UK clean air act was passed at Westminster. This resulted in the introduction of smoke control areas and introduced us to the concept of smokeless coal. In the last seventy years or so air pollution has been well documented and major steps have been taken to clear up our skies. It is still a problem and the rapid industrial development of China has reminded us all that there is no room for complacency and there is still much to be done.

Air quality has improved slightly on Scotland’s streets according to the most recent data but when it comes to the pollution

of the world’s oceans we are still negligent. Major oil spills have been a regular occurrence over the years. Pictures of seabirds with their feathers matted in oil are disturbing but help to emphasise the message. Oil spills happen all too frequently but pollution of our oceans by plastic occurs all day and all night, every day of the year.

“Here is your country.

Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.”

Theodore Roosevelt

Any of you that have taken part in beach clean ups will be familiar with the usual suspects, plastic bags, plastic cotton bud stalks, plastic straws, sweet wrappers and the less frequent but extremely disturbing, wet wipes, tampon applicators and syringes.

Since the Scottish Government introduced a single use carrier

Ronnie Cowan MP

bag charge in 2014 the number in circulation has dropped eighty percent and the number disposed of irresponsibly has plummeted.

They are barely an issue on Scottish beaches now but having witnessed the number of plastic cotton bud stalks picked up on beach cleans I am delighted that the Scottish Government has now said they are consulting on banning plastic cotton buds. With further regard to the environment they are also developing a deposit return scheme for drinks bottles and cans. A panel of experts will look at new measures, including the introduction of a single-use coffee cup levy. The Scottish Government is leading a campaign for people and businesses to reduce their use of plastic straws.

The ‘Final Straw’ campaign has already won support from the Marine Conservation Society.

This is all about working to end the throwaway culture. An unseen threat to our oceans are the microbeads that come from a huge range of personal hygiene products. They are washed down the drains and pollute our rivers and oceans. Fortunately a ban on microbeads is in the process of being implemented. We only have one planet and we need it more than it needs us.

For more information on the Lunderston Bay clean-ups please contact rangers.cut@clydemuirshiel.co.uk

Ronnie Cowan MP, Member of Parliament for Inverclyde, 20 Crawfurd Street, Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 1LJ @clydelifemag ronnie.cowan.mp@parliament.uk Telephone: 01475 721 877

10 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

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STUNNING SURROUNDINGS WITH AFFORDABLE PACKAGES AT ONE OF SCOTLAND’S

MOST UNIQUE WEDDING VENUES House for an Art Lover offers couples the opportunity to celebrate their special day in a beautiful set of rooms imagined by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself. The house was designed by Charles in 1901 as an elegant country retreat, and finally realised when it was built and opened in 1996. The Southside Glasgow location provides a leafy parkland setting, only a short drive from the city centre and with fantastic transport links.

For over 20 years House for an Art Lover has been one of Glasgow foremost venues, providing a backdrop unlike any other for couples celebrating their special day.

The venue marries stunning architectural design with beautifully crafted menus and a dedicated team of staff to provide a truly memorable day – as the feedback shows!

We would definitely do it again. If you are thinking about the House of an Art Lover, don’t hesitate, you will not be disappointed. Laura & Herb (16.10.2017) If you are considering booking the house for an art lover for your wedding, stop thinking about it, just do it. The staff and venue are amazing. Thank you so much for giving us a day we will never forget. Mr & Mrs Taylor (16.09.2017) The venue is in the unique position of having some wonderful weekend dates still for 2018 with the late Availability Package at only £3990. Suitable for 60 day guests and 80 evening guests the all in price includes venue

12 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

hire, drinks package, 3 course menu and evening buffet, as well as table flowers, table stationery, dance floor and your master of ceremonies. The rooms themselves are so picturesque that any additional decoration can only enhance them, the choice is yours!

Voted one of the 50 best wedding venues in the UK by the Independent newspaper, couples can plan their day with the added advantage of knowing that their dedicated co-ordinator Hannah will be with them every step of the way. With her expert guidance you will organise your day moving from room to room to maximise on the best features of the suite.

Whether it’s an intimate meal for 2 to a banquet for 120 Hannah will work with each couple, as well as our head chef, so that their wedding is tailored to their every need, with no request too large or small.

To find out more about weddings at House for an Art Lover contact: Hannah Cochrane, Wedding Co-ordinator on 0141 353 4773 or email: weddings@houseforanartlover.co.uk www.houseforanartlover.co.uk

@clydelifemag

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www.clydelife.co.uk | 13

theStyle files The active sportswear market really is a fashion force in its own right and everything connected with sportswear from hair accessories to bags and fitness trackers to water bottles are now big business.

Don’t even get me started on trainers - they are a whole other fashion story just on their own!

There’s also the lucrative ‘Health and Wellbeing’ side to this trend with cosmetics and skincare aimed especially for the active consumer and clean, healthy eating foods all experiencing a huge uptrend.

Perhaps you’ve recently started a New Years fitness regime, maybe you’ve already stalled during the process, or, there’s a high chance that like me, you’re still just thinking about it. Either way, physically active or not, sportswear in its many guises is something we all now choose to wear. There’s even a name for it - Athleisure.

It’s just recently been included in the dictionary and its definition is this: A style of clothing worn as athletic apparel but also suitable for casual, everyday wear.

With Sportswear currently outpacing other clothing sales in the global apparel industry and still growing at an exceptional rate it seems that everyone wants a piece of the sporty pie! This is all good news for the consumer as we get a huge selection of garments to choose from and at prices to suit all. From the more expensive upmarket brands like Lululemon Athletica, Sweaty Betty and Fabletics, to the traditional Nike, Adidas and Under Armour, all the way to the high street, with brands like H&M and M&S battling it out with the major supermarkets. All retailers now recognise that

14 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

by Marilyn Thompson

men, women and kids want quality, good looking sportswear that they can purchase readily.

What’s more, it’s been proven that looking good whilst working out encourages us to attend and perhaps more importantly, continue with our chosen physical activity, and as we get fitter and firmer the desire for more sportswear increases as understandably, we want to show off our hard-earned results in new kit.

Athleisure - it’s here to stay. Of course, it’s up to you how you choose to interpret it but with

@clydelifemag

fashion and fitness going hand in hand it’s now perfectly acceptable to wear sports clothes out with the confines of the gym and we can all take advantage of this and get on with our busy lives in style and comfort.

As an added bonus, while it’s still so cold outside, to finish off the overall look we get to just throw on a cosy big coat and a stylish scarf. Good to go!

The teen STYLE Files

BOSS

LADY

This season, power suits are making a comeback and there’s no better way to look and feel as if you’re ready to rule the world than embracing this trend. Look out for suits with statement shoulders and doublebreasted buttons which are particularly on trend.

The perfect blush: subtle and highlighting - to be released in February.

Bare Minerals, Gen Nude Powder Blush.

HAIR

Spring 2018 also sees the return of plaits, but this time wear them relaxed and messy, to pull off a feminine yet nonchalant style. Be sure to use clear elastic hair ties to keep the look grown up.

GADGETS This clever and cute reusable bottle could help cement a New Year’s resolution to drink more water!

Hydratem8 - £14.99

Do’s & Dont’s

Do accessorise sparingly Do keep it classy Do wear with confidence Don’t wear ill-fitting suits Don’t be afraid of colour Do - Olivia Palermo Don’t - Julia Roberts

Your Fashion Questions Answered?

Q - Hey Holly, I love the full suit trend this season but don’t think I would get enough wear out of it. Any ideas? Ava. A - Hi Ava, a co-ordinating jacket and trouser suit is actually a lot more versatile than you would think. Worn together they are a fab alternative to a formal dress, but they can also be worn separately with a casual t-shirt, skirt or jeans. H x

Clyde Life Magazine

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: www.clydelife.co.uk holly@thefashionclass.co.uk or www.thefashionclass.co.uk

| 15

A new kitchen welcomes the fa

Anne and Drew never set foot out of Greenock to achieve stop was Affordable Luxuries and the result was a stunning t

The time had come for Anne and Drew to buy a new kitchen because their old one deserved an honourable retirement.

It had served them well for more than 20 years and seen them through the rough and tumble of family life and raising kids but now was time for something new, something with the Affordable Luxuries touch; that something extra you get from the minute you walk through the door of their Regent Street showroom.

‘All the furniture was at one end with a large, unused dining table at the other,’ said Tom McDonald of Affordable Luxuries.

‘Our brief was to design a contemporary kitchen for them in an open plan space with a separate utility area, providing practical storage solutions along with modern functional appliances and accessories.’

Anne and Drew set to work with David McMillan, Affordable Luxuries in-house designer. He said: ‘They wanted additional furniture and work surface and for the kitchen to be fitted out in order to utilise the space better, incorporating a smaller, compact kitchen table.’

One thing everyone knew, right from the start, was that the kitchen’s dark pine ceiling had to go.

‘The pine ceiling darkened the entire room, with this away and a new plastered ceiling installed, with LED downlights and a light palette of colours for the kitchen the room was a completely different space when we were finished,’ said Tom. ‘It was amazing,’ said Anne. ‘After years of us thinking, should we get a new kitchen or not, Drew’s reaction was ‘we should have done this years ago’.’

The journey to the new kitchen began, as all fitted kitchens from Affordable Luxuries do, by sitting down.

‘We sat down and talked with David in the showroom and he came to the house,’ said Anne. The way you can see the finished kitchen on the computer is incredible; so realistic, the computer graphics are that good.’

They decided upon their colour scheme after viewing the many options

‘It was our first stop, we didn’t look anywhere else,’ said Anne, ‘a friend of ours had one of their kitchens and highly recommended them and I admired their work.’

One thing their old kitchen taught them was that Anne and Drew wanted something lighter and brighter that made better use of the space in the reasonable-sized kitchen they have in their traditional semi-detached house in the west end of Greenock.

16 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

A

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

amily’s next generation

their dream kitchen because their first transformation available in the showroom.

Anne added: ‘David asked questions and really listened to what we wanted and came up with the design. We made a couple of little tweaks and it was perfect.’

Some of the final design touches were even decided upon via online conversation on Facetime. With the news that their daughter had gone into labour, Anne headed south to be with her, while Drew was back home.

‘Nothing is too much trouble for them; Tom project managed throughout and kept us informed during his many site visits, said Anne.

more bending down and stretching into the backs of cabinets.

The couple chose Pronorm’s Y-Line range, in a handle-less finish, in Porcelain white and to accompany this, wall panels in Catalina Oak Grey Brown with Stone grey glass. When it came to the worktops to finish the look, they chose Pronorm’s 30mm quartz range in the Ceasarstone organic white colour.

The crispness and light of this combination with the warmth from the Catalina oak wall panels, when coupled with the new ceiling, has totally transformed the kitchen, a transformation not just in looks but also with the appliances. The family has swapped what was state-of-the-art more than 20-years-ago for the very latest technology from Siemens, a manufacturer whose products are always popular with Affordable Luxuries customers.

The kitchen now includes a flex zone induction hob, single oven, combi oven with microwave and an extractor hood, with an integrated tall larder fridge and integrated dishwasher.

‘What can I say? Incredible!’ said Anne.

The design used some clever solutions, especially in the corners of the room with lots of drawers and a tall, tandem, swing-out larder.

In place of the old table-one-end-and-kitchen-at-theother design Anne was delighted with the way the new Affordable Luxuries design pulls all elements of the room together and brought it all to life.

‘The large drawers underneath, going all round the room works very well; I didn’t want wall units,’ said Anne. ‘The amount of storage space is excellent.’

David added: ‘By installing lots of drawers, clever corner storage solutions and the swing-out larder we managed to have the majority of the storage in the kitchen able to pull out for accessibility. This makes the kitchen much more ergonomic and makes for hassle-free use; no

After using a one-and-a-half bowl sink at her daughter’s house Anne knew she wanted to include on in the design; she chose a Blanco, under mount sink with mixer tap in stainless steel.

David advised on the choice of the blinds and the Karndean flooring which add the perfect finishing touches to the kitchen; both came from shops in Greenock. ‘We got our new kitchen without leaving Greenock,’ said Anne.

This new kitchen has welcomed a second generation of the family to their home and will last Anne and Drew for years to come with style, efficiency and spacesaving solutions thanks to Affordable Luxuries.

‘We’ve already had pureed mango, baby food and what-have-you thrown about the place by our granddaughter when she came to stay and the kitchen cleaned up a dream.’ said Anne.

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 | 17 CORIAN ©

Climate is what we expect, weather is what we get!

By Kieran Gallacher, Cardwell Garden Centre

Every time I sit down to write the gardening column, I find myself thinking about the weather.

Anyone who knows me will already be aware that I frequently moan about the weather. It can be the weather that day, what has just passed or what is on the horizon, I will have something to say about it and it is often negative.

In truth, I make no apologies for this. The weather is such a big part of our everyday lives, moreso if you are an active gardener and even more important when you run a business that is weather dependant!

The winter to date has been the coldest for a few years. We rarely get much snow on the ground at Cardwell, mainly because we are at sea level and only a couple of hundred metres from the Clyde itself. If it is snowing at Cardwell, you can be sure it is snowing much heavier further inland.

We have seen snow of around 4 inches/10cm a few times already this winter and it is still January! During December the ground was frozen solid for several days here and this level of frost and snow can cause both structural and cosmetic damage to the garden.

On the plus side, after the ground has been frozen for a prolonged period, the soil itself will be very soft once it has thawed out. This is an ideal time to dig it over, add rotted manure or other soil conditioner.

Trees and bushes may have suffered broken branches, either under the wieght of snow or by the strong winds that we have experienced. Where this is the case, the branch should be completely removed and the open wound that is left should be made smooth with a saw or similar tool. It can then be sealed with a pruning compound which will prevent disease or further damage from happening.

18 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

In some cases where the branch is still attached and has only minor damage, it is possible to rescue the branch using appropriate support (a tree stake or by tieing to an existing higher branch) and sealing the damage and ‘bandaging’ with raffia or similar. This is not guaranteed to work and in most cases it is best to remove the damaged parts.

If you have a lawn I would not do much to it just yet.

You may see some signs of growth during March, if it is mild, but please do not be tempted to cut it.

Unlike most other plants in your garden, the lawn takes punishment all year round.

In winter, especially if there is snow, the lawn can become a playground for kids eager to build snowmen and have snowball fights. Likewise, in summer it is a football pitch or similar.

When you think about it, you would not walk on top of any of the other plants in your garden, particularly when they are frozen!

Your lawn is exceptionally tough though, and with a little care will recover from the harsh winter. With the soil being soft under the lawn, and there being plenty of rain around, it may be worth taking an aerator or garden fork to the grass to improve drainage. Holes created can then be backfilled by sweeping coarse or sharp sand over the lawn. Please make sure if you buy sand for this that it is properly washed and not just builders sand. This will do more harm than good.

Feeds and other treatments for the lawn should not be used until at least April when the temperatures have warmed up.

Finally, even though the weather may still be cold, you can still start planting some early spring and summer bedding plants in tubs, baskets and borders. Just make sure anything you plant just now will be hardy enough to cope with the odd cold night and a touch or frost. @clydelifemag

EASTER AT CARDWELL SPECIAL OFFERS, KIDS EVENTS AND COMPETITION, SPRING BEDDING PLANTS ON SALE

FREE REWARDS CARD

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RECEIVE EMAILS OF LATEST DEALS AND EVENTS AT CARDWELL

GREAT GIFTS FOR ALL MUMS AVAILABLE IN STORE

Check our website/social media for up to date information

Lunderston Bay, Gourock, Inverclyde, PA19 1BB Clyde Life Magazine www.clydelife.co.uk | 19 01475 521 536 www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Greenock

are hosting an Exclusive Charity Screening of “Breathe” at the Waterfront Cinema on 6th March at 7pm

in support of Rotary International’s End Polio Now Campaign.

“Breathe” is the inspiring true love story of Robin and Diana Cavendish, an adventurous couple who refuse to give up in the face of a devastating disease.

Tickets are £10 and are available from the website or the box office.

WATERFRONT cinema

first Scot to win it, but she was also the youngest ever recipient. Her commissioned portrait of the British political broadcaster and commentator Sir Robin Day (19232000) is part of the contemporary collection in the National Portrait Gallery, London.

Win a copy of Rosemary Beaton’s book! visit our website

clydelife.co.uk and click on competitions to enter

One of the acclaimed new ‘Glasgow Girls’ who made their name in the 1980s and played a huge role in establishing Glasgow’s visual arts fame, Beaton is an artist with a mercilessly frank and revealing style.

Clare Henry, Alexander Moffat, Alison Harper Published by Sansom & Co 31st January 2018 Hardback, £30

Rosemary Beaton shot to fame in 1984 whilst still a student at the Glasgow School of Art when, at the age of 20, she won the National Portrait Gallery’s coveted annual Portrait Award. Not only was she the

20 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

This book celebrates 30 years of creative output.

It is lavishly illustrated with over 150 illustrations of Beaton’s highly distinctive landscape and life drawings, paintings, portraiture and environmental artwork.

ROSEMARY BEATON will be launched at a large retrospective exhibition titled “Alternative Realities” at 9 George Sq.Glasgow. Private view 28th February 2018, exhibition will run until 15th March 2018. @clydelifemag

Do you love caring for animals, if yes this could be for you!

We are looking for responsible couples and single people locally to reside in Client’s homes caring for their cherished pets and keeping their houses clean and tidy whilst they are away. You must be mature and have owned your own pets previously for at least 15 years, as your love of animals and experience is vital for this role. It is a responsible position, which you can do at anytime as long as you are available a minimum of sixteen weeks per year.

Call Animal Angels Ltd

01256 764141 www.animalangels.co.uk

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. Open Sundays from 12-4pm.

Come in and see us!

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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 | 21

Huge range of windows and composite doors

Pop in and visit our showroom today or call for a free no obligation quotation.

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T: 01475 723155

www.clochdoubleglazing.co.uk @clydelifemag A Local family business with over 35 years experience

22 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

IN GREENOCK CONDUCTED BY

DUNCAN WARD

ALISON MITCHELL – FLUTE BRONTË HUDNOTT – FLUTE

FRIDAY 8 JUNE 2018, 7.30PM BEACON ARTS CENTRE, GREENOCK SCHUMANN Overture, Scherzo & Finale PUCCINI Crisantemi CIMAROSA Concerto for 2 Flutes MENDELSSOHN Symphony No 1

Tickets: beaconartscentre.co.uk / 01475 723 723

Core funded by

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SCO.ORG.UK

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 Clyde Life Magazine

www.clydelife.co.uk | 23

NNBW takes place each year from 14-21 February, and after more than 19 years it is now an established part of the ornithological calendar.

NNBW aims to encourage everyone to put up nest boxes in their local area in order to promote and enhance biodiversity and conservation of our breeding birds and wildlife.

Who can take part?

Whether you’re a family with space for a box in your garden, a teacher, or a member of a local wildlife group. National Nest Box Week gives you the chance to contribute to the conservation effort in the UK whilst giving you the pleasure of observing any breeding birds that you attract to your garden.

Putting up a nest box Where you put your box is every bit as important as what it looks like. The highest priority when siting a nest box must be to provide a safe and comfortable environment in which birds can nest successfully.

Blue tits use small-hole nest boxes, and prefer them to be 1-3m above ground on tree trunks.

Top tips for putting up a nest box • Not too close to another nest box - nest boxes of the same type should not be sited too close together as this may promote aggressive behaviour between neighbours.

•

Shelter your box from the weather - the front of the nest box should be angled vertically or slightly downwards to prevent rain from entering the nest box. Make sure it is sheltered from prevailing wind, rain and strong sunlight.

•

Height from the ground should be 3 metres - small-hole boxes are best placed 1-3m above ground on tree trunks, but avoid sites where foliage obscures the entrance hole. If there are no trees in your garden, the next best option is to place your box on the side of a shed or wall.

• Open-fronted nest boxes should be hidden from view - attach your box to a wall or fence that has shrubs and creepers growing against it.

• Make sure cats cannot get into the box - ensure that it is not easily accessible to predators (cats and squirrels).

• Keep nest box away from bird feeders - as high levels of activity of visiting birds could disturb nesting pairs.

Robins use open-fronted nest boxes, and prefer them to be low to the ground and concealed behind vegetation.

•

Traditionally, nest boxes for small birds are put up in the spring pairs begin to prospect in the latter half of February, so a box put up at the end of the winter stands a good chance of attracting nesting birds. However, it is never too early or late to put up a nest box, as some birds will use them to roost in during the winter months.

Use voucher code NNBW10 at www.thepetshoppostie.co.uk to receive 10% off and free delivery for all wild bird food , boxes & feeders 24 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

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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 25

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 & Wellbeing Classes Class Time Location Day Teacher/Instructor Contact Details Yogabellies Children’s Yoga 3-12yrs 01475 745552/744404 Yoga & Meditation - Beginners 7pm-8:30pm Boglestone CC Mon Jacci Stoyle 77902 62124 Yoga & Meditation - Intermediate 7pm-8:30pm Boglestone CC Wed Jacci Stoyle 077902 62124 Yoga 2pm-3:30pm Westburn Church Mon Aileen Hughes 01475 801613 Yoga 2pm-3:30pm Westburn Church Tue Aileen Hughes 01475 801613 Hatha Yoga 7pm-8pm Lyle Kirk Wed Flora MacKenzie fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk Hatha Yoga - Beginners 8pm-9pm Lyle Kirk Wed Flora MacKenzie fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk Hatha Yoga 2pm-3pm Inverkip CC Thu Flora MacKenzie fmackenzie_uk@yahoo.co.uk Birsay Yoga 9:30am Gourock Tue Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 7:30pm Gourock Tue Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 7:45pm Inverkip Wed Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 6:15pm Largs Mon Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 9:30am Largs Thu Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 7:30pm Largs Thu Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Birsay Yoga 10:30am Largs Sat Joanna Ritchie 07518 373 073 Yoga – Mixed Ability Class 10:30am Gourock – Bath St Mon Sheena Arlow sheenaarlow@gmail.com Yoga – Mixed Ability Class 10:00am Gourock – Bath St Wed Sheena Arlow sheenaarlow@gmail.com Yoga – Mixed Ability Class 6:45pm Greenock – Nelson St Wed Sheena Arlow sheenaarlow@gmail.com Yoga 9:30am-10:30am Kilmacolm Tue Jacqueline Gibson 07851 735357 Yoga 9:30am-10:30am Kilmacolm Fri Jacqueline Gibson 07851 735357 Yoga 7:45pm-9:15pm Greenock Tue Patricia Ralston 01475 785685 Yoga 10am-11:30am Bridge of Weir Tue Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950 Yoga 10am-11:30am Bridge of Weir Thu Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950 Yoga 7pm:8:30pm Bridge of Weir Thu Sara Marijuan-Tuck 07962 347950 Scaravelli inspired Yoga 7:30pm-9:00pm Branchton CC Tue Rachel Harper 01475 638481 Tai Chi 10:30am-11:30am Branchton CC Fri David Kendal 01475 638481 Pilates 6:15pm-7:15pm Houston Mon Kate Black katiescotts@hotmail.com

Dance Classes Elite Academy of Dance Ballet Silver Swans Ballet (over 50s) 11am-12pm Silver Swans Ballet (over 50s) 11am-12pm Royal Scottish Country Dance Society 8pm-9:45pm

Greenock Greenock Greenock Laird Street, Greenock

Every Day Tue Thu Mon Joan Pow

www.eliteacademyofdance.co.uk www.silverswansballet.co.uk www.silverswansballet.co.uk 07834 553604

Camera Clubs Digital Camera Club 7:30pm Langbank

Greenock Camera Club 7:30pm Greenock Kilmacolm Camera Club 7:30pm Kilmacolm Inverclyde Camera Club 7:30pm Gourock

2nd & 4th Mon of the month Thur Tue Fri

Derrick McPherson Langbankcc1@gmail.com Heather Sinclair 07903 164227 David Walker 01505 873883 Ann-Marie Westwood 07971 607453

Other Clubs & Groups

Greenock Speakers Club 7:30pm - 10pm Ardgowan Club, Greenock Thu (Oct-Mar) Tony Cowden 01475 783228 MS Activities Group 11am-1pm Greenock Thu Stuart Anderson 01475 630553 Parkinson’s Inverclyde Support Group 12:30-2:30pm Greenock Last Fri of month Trish Maclennan 01475 743679 Fort Matilda Bridge Club 7pm Gourock Mon Tue Fri Ann MacLeod 01475 522181 The costs of this advert have been met from Parliamentary resources.

Inverclyde Sky Watchers 3pm-5pm Greenock Mon Marion 01475 634976 Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Games Society Bridge of Weir Every 2nd Thu Keith 07789 501605 Messy Church 4pm-6pm Westburn Church, Greenock 10th Feb & 10th Mar 26 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018 Inverclyde Ramblers Dave Souza 01475 @clydelifemag 631654

If you need us in the middle of the night you will be seen by our vets at our surgery (so you won’t need an anxious trip to Glasgow)

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

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CUTTING EDGE Aesthetic Laser Treatments

LASERLIGHT CLINIC. 1 PRIESTON ROAD, BRIDGE OF WEIR, PA11 3AJ • • • • • • •

Hair Removal Skin Treatments Carbon Laser Toning Tattoo Removal Microneedling Microdermabrasion Radio Frequency Treatments and much more!

T: 01505 228095 and ask for Lorraine

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all courses of laser treatment until 31 March.

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Introducing Super Hair Removal (SHR) Lasers - a revolutionary new method for permanent hair removal that is virtually pain and side effect free. In comparison to olser laser and IPL methods, SHR provides faster, safer and pain free hair reduction treatments for clients. It provides the same great results as IPL, even on lighter hair!

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Call before 31 March to receive this fantastic offer!

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parkinsons.org.uk/walkpollokpark 0344 225 3781

Registered charity in England and Wales (258197) and Scotland (SC037554). © Parkinson’s UK

www.clydelife.co.uk | 27

Mothering Sunday –

let’s make a day of it...

In this crazy, fast world let’s take time to celebrate a tradition and a person we know and love.

By Joanne Simms In a world where everyone gets their own day let’s go back to basics and really, truly, celebrate the one of the days, and people, we know and love the best.

It seems now that every day is spoken for. Turn on the radio and you will hear its British baked bean day or the international day of the iguana.

So here and now, let us stand up for one of the original and best, Mother’s Day. Whether you have your mum and dad or just got your mum; being raised by married together mums, got another mother through your brother, or a mummy but not from her tummy, let’s celebrate them all.

Home life today comes in a staggering, sometimes bewildering, number of combinations but there is something that is always there: love and its best friend joy. In the rush of modern life this is one occasion when a tweet or an emoji simply will not do.

Turn up, be in the moment and share your love for each other.

All cultures and ancient religions have a celebration of woman, fertility and mother in some form or another and here in the UK Mother’s Day is the fourth Sunday in Lent, this year March 11.

In the Christian tradition, it began as the day you returned to your ‘Mother Church’ where you were baptized; your employer was obliged to give you time off.

daughter of an English clergyman called for a revival here in the UK. All the upheaval and separations of the Second World War boosted the longing to celebrate home and mothers. Before long it attracted more commercial enterprise and evolved into the massive event we have today.

So celebrate your mum this Mother’s Day. Whether it is a homemade card and breakfast in bed that daddy helped you make; a pocket money bunch of flowers or a stunning big bouquet.

Take your Mum out for Sunday lunch at her favourite place.

Or how about a big tea party with home-baking and getting all the family photo albums out along with the cine-film, videos, dvd or online home movies and have a great big nostalgia trip; not just when you were kids but when mum was a girl herself.

For many people, especially those who were servants, apprenticed or indentured it was one of the few times they could go home and see their family and they picked flowers along the way or brought home a gift. Slowly mums took over from the church aspect.

Search out that extra special little gift, a picture frame or trinket, her favourite perfume of a bath time treat (remember chocolate never goes wrong).

Early in the 20th century there was an American move to recognise the day and inspired by this the

Most off all: do it with love.

28 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018

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court & country AN EVENING WITH the uk’s leading string orchestra featuring award-winning Celtic duo

CHRIS stout (fiddle) & catriona mckay (harp)

Beacon Arts Centre | Wed 14 March | 7.30pm Book online at beaconartscentre.co.uk

T: 07473 873927 E: barry.maher@chipsaway.co.uk W: www.chipsaway.co.uk/barrymaher

Phone for your free, no obligation estimate!

Clyde Life

Did you know that we also deliver flyers?

Prices start from £60/thousand.

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

Clyde Life Magazine

Yvonne Calvert Chiropodist Podiatrist 3 Newton Street Greenock PA16 8UH For all your foot problems.

Appointments

Tel:

01475 727373

Reception open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday Saturday 9am to 1pm Appointments also available in Largs & Johnstone

www.chiropodistpodiatrist.co.uk Toe nail cutting Drop-in Service £10 Tuesday 2-4pm.

www.clydelife.co.uk | 29

RECIPE

CULLEN SKINK

One of our most popular dishes at the Chartroom, Cullen Skink is a simple dish to make that is great as a starter or a main course served with crusty fresh baked bread & butter.

Key to the dish is the quality of the smoked haddock you use – if possible stay away from the cheaper dyed versions or ask your local fishmonger for a recommendation.

Often described as the ultimate comfort food, everything you need for this recipe is readily available from a good supermarket or if you can, support your local shops.

Ingredients Method

• 50g Scottish butter • Dash of olive oil (not Extra Virgin) • 1 medium white onion finely chopped • 1 medium leek finely sliced • 2 medium potatoes (Maris Piper if possible), peeled & cut into 1cm cubes • 300ml water • 300g smoked haddock (add more to taste if you want!)

• 1 or 2 fish stock cubes (or fish bouillon powder) • 300ml full cream milk • Dash double cream • Salt & white pepper to taste • Chopped chives to garnish

Melt butter in saucepan over a low heat and add olive oil (stops butter from burning) Add onion and leek, cook for 5 to 7 minutes until transparent with a lid on, stirring occasionally. Don’t let onions brown.

Add potatoes, water and a fish stock cube, simmer for 15 minutes.

In separate pan cover smoked haddock with milk, bring to low simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove haddock from milk and pour milk into pan with onions and potatoes in.

Flake haddock using spoon and fork discarding any skin.

Add haddock to other pan with dash cream and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.

Season with salt & pepper and more stock cube if required.

Serve sprinkled with chives and lots of crusty bread and butter.

DOG DAY AFTERNOON Sunday 4th March 12-6pm

Our waterside function room is a dog friendly diner for the day! Bring your furry friends and have a fun afternoon 520919 @clydelifemag 30 | Clyde Life – February/March 2018at Scotland’s premier marina. Reserve your table by calling 01475

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! y a D s ’ e n i t n e l a V St Wednesday 14th February 6.00 - 10.00pm

2 Courses + Fizz or Cocktail £17.95 per person

Treat the special someone in your life to a romantic candlelit dinner and a glass of fizz or a cocktail! For drivers non-alcoholic alternatives are available so you don’t feel unloved!

For the late and forgetful our Valentines Menu will also be available on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th • Reserve your table now by calling 01475 520919

MOTHER’S DAY Treat someone special to a special day at the Chartroom!

2 courses + a glass of Bubbly for Mum only £16.95 Children’s menu £5.95

Sun 11th

March

Waterside Weddings @ Scotland’s Premier Marina

Bespoke packages for special days & nights…

01475 520919 • TheChartroom.co.uk 32 | Marina, Clyde Life – February/March 2018 OBF Kip Inverkip, PA16

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