Park Life April May 2018

Your what’s on guide and advertiser for West Stirlingshire, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

APRIL MAY 2018

Gardening & outdoor feature Spring has sprung!

Drymen Show Saturday 26th May

Competitions & Readers Offers

20,000

copies printed.

Delivered by Royal Mail

Bringing your local community together covering: Strathblane • Blanefield • Croftamie • Drymen • Killearn Balfron • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Gartocharn • Fintry • Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Kippen • Gargunnock Thornhill Ruskie • Port of Menteith • Callander • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • Kinlochard • Balloch • Gartmore

Park Life | Business

THE OAK TREE INN Muddy Boots Welcome

Loch Lomond Coffee Co. Come and taste coffee roasted by our very own Loch Lomond Coffee Co. the first coffee roasting facility in the National Park. Taste it in St Mocha and The Oak Tree, we’ve also got bags of coffee for sale.

New Balmaha Pontoon Our new pontoon has daily water bus services linking Balmaha and Luss, plus cruises around the islands. Check our website for times of sailings.

Plus watch out for new water based activities coming very soon!

Weir’s Rest Over 300,000 people have visited Weir’s Rest at Balmaha. Come and see the Tom Weir Statue, as well as the newly landscaped Weir’s Rest, with new heritage boards and beautiful views.

Green Credentials St Mocha Coffee Shops takeaway cups are fully compostable, offering strong green benefits. Also they feature a beautiful picture of Conic Hill, painted by local artist Wil Freeborn.

Tel: 01360 870357 | Email: info@theoaktreeinn.co.uk

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

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@oaktreebalmaha

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

TheOakTreeInn

OakTreeInn

Park Life | Business

Sailings and events throughout the year

Steamship Sir Walter Scott D The is fully wheelchair friendly

Mad Hatter Easter Tea Party

Sunday 1st and Monday 2nd April

Come along and meet the Mad Hatter & White Rabbit at Loch Katrine - who will be assisting the children taking part in our fabulous Easter Egg Hunt around Trossachs Pier.

Don’t be late for this very important date!

Take time out and explore Loch Katrine • Classic steamship cruises on the iconic Sir Walter Scott • Legends of the Loch cruises on the Lady of the Lake • Family friendly special events throughout the year • Walking & cycling on the shores of Loch Katrine • Lochside Dining • Katrine Gifts - Souvenirs & Crafts • Katrinewheelz - Cycle Hire • Borg Grech Photography • Pier Café - Stronachlachar

Lady of the La Sailings com ke mence on May 25th

Short breaks at Loch Katrine Eco Lodges Leave the hustle and bustle behind and enjoy a short break in one of our 8 cosy Lochs and Bens Eco Lodges (4 en-suite with underfloor heating) plus get 20% cruise and cycle hire discounts when you stay.

Alternatively park your motorhome at one of our specially designated spaces with new hook up facilities.

Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, by Callander, Stirling FK17 8HZ Telephone: 01877 376315/6 Email: enquiries@lochkatrine.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk www. lochkatrine.com

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3

Weekend Wedding Package

Late Availability 2018

£3,990

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 Lover’s Café Bar. • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Venue hire Glass of House sparkling for arrival Ceremony charge Master of ceremonies Half bottle of House wine for meal Glass of sparkling for toast Cake stand and knife 3 course menu Table stationery Hot Filled Rolls 80 Guests Choice of 2 centre pieces Dance floor Full table linen

New bookings only.

Additional guests can be arranged.

4

T: 0141 353 4770 E: WEDDINGS@HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK W: WWW.HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Contents

APRIL / MAY 2018

13

Local Useful Numbers

16 Rainbow Valley Events Drymen Show

44

18 Fitness Classes 20 Strathyre Music Festival 20 Fitness Blog 22 Oona McFarlane Interview 24 Balfron 10k 25 Gardening & Outdoors Feature 29 RSPB 36 Gardening Tips 50 Cinema 51 What's On Locally 57 Scotia Spice Recipe 60 Dog Walking Paradise

Balfron 10k

24

ANTIQUES VALUATION DAY With ANITA MANNING And her team of specialists from

Great Western Auctions

64 The Fintry Inn Recipe 72 Anita Manning Valuation Day 76 Index 79 Farmers Markets

Competitions 12 Shock City Concert Tickets 46 Macrobert Family Ticket 62 Sugar Boat Lunch for Two with Wine

Antiques valuation day

72

To enter all our competitions please visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Friday 27th April 2018

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5

�-woodforf uel.com A local family business producing reliably high quality wood fuel products from the forest to your fire.

�

Suppliers of Sustainable Scottish Firewood and Woodchip

Owoodsure assured quality woodfuel

l{ILN & FORCE DRIED LOGS All our softwood and hardwood logs are screened to remove loose bark and debris, and then either kiln or force dried to ensure all products are consistently at the correct low moisture content.

LOGS AVAILABLE IN VARIOUS LENGTHS Our specialised production process enables us to cut your logs to the correct length for your appliance, to help achieve

RELIABLE & FLEXIBLE DELIVERY SERVICE

Our reliable and friendly delivery drivers will always try to deliver your logs when and where you need them.

PRODUCTS

• Force Dried Softwood Logs 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 & 20" lengths • Force & Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs In standard 10" lengths • Kindling Supplied in handy sacks • Woodchip Force Dried and Screened Suitable for Biomass Boilers & CHP Units 6

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Welcome

APRIL / MAY 2018

In This Edition...

A

s we are look forward to the warmth of Spring this year with the Beast from the East a dull and distant memory and exciting changes ahead for us here at Park Life.

We are developing a vibrant new look to our printed pages and hope you enjoy this feature rich edition!

The new web portal is being worked on as we speak with the phone App to follow allowing you access wherever you are in the world making our business platform unique to this area.

We have a journalist and graphic designer on staff to get your message out there with tailored content expertly presented. Whether a private business or small local

charity group we will connect you to the readers and convert these to enquiries, sales and repeat business.

Lisa and I will be out and about over the next month visiting all our customers and finding out what you as a reader would like to see more of and what services we can provide.

Our next step is to bring an exceptional and unique new platform to independent local businesses with access to promote their goods and services as well as starting up our dynamic networking events in 2018.

At Park Life we are continuously working with the community and maintaining our Buy/Support Local ethos.

Next Edition Your what’s on guide and advertiser for West Stirlingshire, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Forth Valley Open Studios

Over 140 participating artists at 80 different locations

JUNE JULY 2018

20,000

copies printed.

Delivered by Royal Mail

Homes & Interiors Feature Top tips and guide to all things local

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme

Open days in the Park Life area

Bringing your local community together covering: Strathblane • Blanefield • Croftamie • Drymen • Killearn Balfron • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Gartocharn • Fintry • Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Kippen • Gargunnock Thornhill Ruskie • Port of Menteith • Callander • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • Kinlochard • Balloch • Gartmore

Katrina - Director

JUNE / JULY 2018

Copy deadline 14th May. Feature include...

Forth Valley Open Studios Homes & Interiors Feature Scotland's Gardens Scheme

a n i r t a K

Advertise with us!

To advertise in our next edition or to request a Media Pack...

T: 07791 976910 E: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk Keep up to date - Follow us on Facebook

TAXI SERVICES • Crescent Cabs 07710 800067 • Trossachs Cabs 07956 914988 Katrina - Director | e: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07791 976910 | t: 01360 550857 Lisa - Sales Director | e: lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk | m: 07792 066706 | t: 01360 550857 Parklife Magazine, Killearn Mill, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LQ | www.parklifescotland.co.uk Graphic Design by Skep Design - Simon Jones | e: simon.jones@skepdesign.co.uk | m: 07817 312062

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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7

Park Life | Business

Marketing, Video & Photography for businesses of all sizes One off projects, or on-going support

 www.paulsaunders.co.uk  01360 661029

PAUL SAUNDERS MARKETING

• New builds • Renovations Extensions • • Free estimate • Kitchens, Bathrooms • Property Maintenance Design & Installation • Project Management • General joinery Services • Insurance work

All Trades Provides

Kevin Morgan - Tel 07825 006101 | www.kmjoiners.co.uk

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Here’s what some of our customers had to say about our work:

• Equipment Supplied (Trade Prices) • Project Managed Installations • Professional Quality Installations • References Available On Request • All Work Guaranteed

07887 711 165 01360 771952 bathroomtransformations@btconnect.com

To arrange a free estimate please contact Stevie Melvin

Check our reviews in

FREE SURVEY, QUOTATION AND DESIGN

Installation service only also available

20% OFF

SELECTED

STOVES STOVE SUPPLY ONLY OR SUPPLY & INSTALLATION

GARDEN & OUTDOORS

Visit our one stop stove and firewood shop for a friendly welcome and expert advice on choosing the perfect stove for your home.

Quality Wood Fired Pizza Ovens Masonry BBQ’s Complete Outdoor Kitchens

Approved stockists for Arada • Charnwood • Woodwarm • Mendip • Burley Nordpeis • Varde • HETA • PEVEX • Clock Dovre • Yeoman

Unit 3a Bandeath Industrial Estate, Throsk FK7 7NP 01786 357 057 | www.calidologs.com sales@calidologs.com

HETAS Approved Installer

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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9

Committed to providing quality service, competitive pricing and reliable delivery.

G

leaner Oils is an established supplier of bulk fuels including home heating oil, commercial and agricultural fuels. As well as providing boiler maintenance services and lubricants. As an independent, family owned company with over 60 year’s industry experience, they are committed to providing a quality service, competitive pricing and reliable delivery service from their network of local depots throughout Scotland.

Visit their trade stand at one of the many agricultural shows they are exhibiting at this summer. Speak to one of their friendly, experienced staff who are on hand to offer help and advice on their products and services, including show-day pricing.

Visit Gleaner Oils at an agricultural show near you this summer: Fife - 19th May 18, West Fife – 2nd June 18, Stirling - 9th June 18, Doune & Dunblane - 7th July 18, Black Isle - 1st & 2nd Aug 18, Perth - 3rd & 4th Aug 18, Grantown - 9th Aug 18, Kinross - 11th Aug 18, Appin - 19th Aug 18.

Extra Date: Truck-in-2-Grantown - 12th May 18

Heating Oil, Commercial & Agricultural Fuels

Join us at an agricultural show near you Boiler maintenance services

10 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Competitive pricing

Reliable delivery service

0800 833 534 www.gleaner.co.uk

Park Life | Business

CONSERVATORY ROOF CONVERSIONS BEFORE

AFTER

• A new super lightweight tiled roof

• Variety of tile colours available

• Fully Insulated

• “U” Value of 0.15

Providing you with a conservatory for all year round use • Extensions

• Attic Conversions

• Fitted Kitchens & Bathrooms

• Windows and Doors Replaced

• Full Roofing Service

• Timber Decking

• Hardwood Floors

• Design & Drawing Service

All Property Maintenance Undertaken

For free advice and quotations call Lorne on: 07763 790838 or 01360 771351

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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stic a t n a f ur o r e t n E or f n o i t i t compe ance to h your c

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk 12 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.shockcity.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Useful Numbers · Oil Heating Engineers · AGAs, Rayburns & Boilers · Central Heating & Hot Water

Police Non-Emergency 101 Police Emergency 999 or 112 Scottish Power 0800 0270072 Stirling Council 08452 777000 Water Help Line 0800 0778 778 Gas Emergencies 0800 111 999 The Samaritans 24hr 08457 90 90 90

Libraries

A family business based in Thornhill Stirlingshire, covering Stirling, Perthshire, Fife, Kinross, Clacks, Lothian, Lanark, Dumbarton and more...

tel: 01786 599771 / 07398 510771

email: contact@yourheating.co.uk web: www.yourheating.co.uk

TV wall mounting + CCTV

Aerial & Satellite Installs & Repairs

Strathblane 01360 770737 Drymen 01360 660751 Balfron 01360 440407 Callander 01877 331544 Balloch 01389 608989

Schools covered by Park Life Magazine Aberfoyle 01877 382278 Balfron High 01360 440469 Balfron 01360 440027 Buchanan 01360 870215 Buchlyvie 01360 850311 Callander 01877 331576 Drymen 01360 660410 Fintry 01360 860204 Gartmore 01877 382343 Gargunnock 01786 860291 Killearn 01360 550430 Kippen 01786 870373 Mclaren High 01877 330156 Port of Menteith 01877 385225 Strathblane 01360 770608 Thornhill 01786 850207

Balfron Tip opening times Mon-Fri 5pm-8pm Sat 10-2pm

Health Centres Covering the Park Life area

Call John on 07786324705 www.clearlineaerial.co.uk

Drymen 01360 660203 Kippen 01360 850237 Balfron 01360 440515 Aberfoyle 01877382421 Callander 01877 331000 Killearn 01360 550339

Dentist Drymen 01360 661097 NHS 24 Helpline 111 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

WE ARE HERE!

(Next to Highland Spring)

Come Meet Cammy and The Team!

Lennoxlea Garage provides MOT testing, servicing, repairs and diagnostics on all vehicle types. Your helpful, friendly and reliable local garage.

• Diagnostics & Fault Finding

• MOT Testing (Class 4)

• Tyres & Exhausts

• Servicing

• Brakes & Suspension

• Repairs

TEL 01360 312532 VEITCH PLACE, LENNOXTOWN, G66 7JQ WWW.LENNOXLEAGARAGE.CO.UK

In Association with:

Garden Machinery, Quad Bikes, Small Plant, Trailers

Andrew Anderson & Sons Funeral Directors Est.1969

“Stand Sure we will look after you & your family”

We are proud to offer a 24 hour caring and professional service to the local community.

A wide range of memorial stones are available.

We can also clean and add further inscriptions to existing family memorials.

CALLANDER

Funeral Home, Glenartney Road, Callander, FK17 8EB

Tel: 01877 330 398

BALFRON

64b Buchanan Street, Balfron, Glasgow, G63 0TW

Tel: 01360 441 023

Email: info@anderson-funerals.co.uk • www.anderson-funerals.co.uk

advert3.indd 1

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

03/02/2017 15:47

Park Life | Business

Park...

Thinking of selling your National home? we've got it covered

National Park...we’ve got itBearsden covered 0141 943 1110

Stirling

Na w it

01786 464449

Helensburgh

01436 674537

Bea

propertybureau.co.uk

014

Letting and Estate Agents

Stir

017

National Park... we've got it covered

Stirling Helensburgh Bearsden propertybureau.co.uk 01786 464449 01436 674537

Bearsden 0141 943 1110

0141 943 1110

Stirling Unique sales packages guaranteed to move you Now with free home report!

propertybureau.co.uk propertybureau.co.uk

01786 464449

Helensburgh

01436 674537

Letting and Estate Agents

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Hel

014

Park Life | Business

16 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

R

ainbow Valley is inspired by Johanna MacVicar who passed away in 2005 following a lengthy battle with leukaemia.

She believed that diet, stress, exercise and complementary therapies all influenced her health and had a significant role in controlling her condition and future. Since Rainbow Valley’s inception in 2012 we have been delivering Johanna’s vision through our free to attend residential courses and provision of information.

Park Life | Business

A year long campaign to celebrate what would have been Johanna MacVicar’s 40th birthday. We are looking for 40 small companies or organisations to each raise £1000 for Rainbow Valley.www.parklifescotland.co.uk |

17

Park Life | Business

CLASS

VILLAGE

DAY

CONTACT

TIME

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Monday

12.15pm

07759 182236

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Thursday

6pm

07759 182236

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Blanefield

Thursday

9.45am & 8pm

07759 182236

Zumba - Jane

Strathblane

Saturday

10 - 11am

07968 968944

Zumba - Jane

Strathblane

Tuesday

7 - 8pm

07968 968944

Balfron High School

Mon & Thur 8pm - 9.30pm

Balfron High School

Wednesday 8 - 9pm

Kore Kickboxing

Ladies Netball

07813 884202 All Abilities welcome

Balfron Gymnastics Club

Balfron High School

Saturday

10.30 - 5pm balfrongymnastics@mail.com

Balfron Gymnastics Club

Balfron High School

Thursday

5 - 8pm

Killearn Village Hall

Tuesday

Dance Sing

balfrongymnastics@mail.com

10.30am - 12noon 07712 862823

STUDIO 63

Contact: Michelle 07961 722757

HIIT

Killearn Mill

Monday

9.30am

07961 722757

HIIT

Killearn Mill

Monday

7.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Monday

7.30pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Tuesday

9.30am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Tuesday

9.30am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Tuesday

6.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Tuesday

7.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Tuesday

8.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Wednesday 9.30am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Wednesday 11.00am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Wednesday 6.30pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Wednesday 8.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Thursday

9.45am

07961 722757

Circuits HIIT

BoxFit

Adult Tap

ClubFit PiYo

HIIT

Baby Massage

BoxFit

Bikram Yoga

Bootcamp

HIIT

Killearn Mill

Thursday

10.15pm

07961 722757

HIIT

Killearn Mill

Thursday

6.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Thursday

6.30pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Thursday

8.00pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Friday

9.45am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Friday

10.15am

07961 722757

Kettlebells

Bikram Yoga

Circuits

HIIT Musical Theatre

Metafit & Tone Metafit & Core Acrobatics

Killearn Mill

Friday

3.45pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Friday

6.30pm

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Saturday

9.00am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Saturday

10.00am

07961 722757

Killearn Mill

Sunday

9.00am

07961 722757

Bikram Yoga

((BOUNCE)) Coming Soon!

18 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Specialist Provider of Quality Homecare Services 24 hours a day 365 days a year

H

ome is Best Ltd are a family run provider of quality healthcare services. Our Services are intended to enable individuals to remain in their home and live in the community whilst enjoying a good quality of life.

Our services • Personal Care • Respite Care • Hospital to Homecare • Palliative Care • Holiday Care • Social Companionship • Live in Care • Domestic Care • Monthly Outing • Service Social Interaction

ot! h be with

Slimming World BALFRON Wednesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm Masonic Hall, Dunmore Street Tel: Fiona 07771 918363 slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 19

Park Life’s

Fit for Life BLOG

By Liz Ewing Personal Trainer & Sports Therapist

Fri 25th - Sun 27th May 2018 £8 per day entry fee • Under 16’s free

Personal Trainer & Sports Therapist

• Personal Training

Back again for a sixth year, 3 days of music set in Scotland’s first village in the highlands.

• Nutritional Advice

Headlining Friday Night

• Pregnancy & Post Pregnancy Fitness

Papa Shandy & the Drams Saturday Night

Mid Town Riot Saturday & Sunday the Market Stage, situated in The Market Place For more information, visit us on Facebook TWITTER www.balvaig.co.uk

• Personalised Training Programme

• Postural Development lizewing58@gmail.com | T: 07779784191

Aizle Active, Balfron Station, G63 OSE

Alison Gilkes 07729 766631 | 01360 850 110 The Old Surgery, Buchlyvie, FK8 3LU Lumsdaine Halls, Killearn, G63 9NN E: ali.gilkes@gmail.com www.alisonmassagetherapy.co.uk

20 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

@AlisonMassageTherapy

Scales should only be used as a guide, they should never be considered the sole indicator of your body composition progress. Your weight can fluctuate based on hydration, time of the day, meals and clothing.

Also, the stage of where a woman is at on her monthly cycle should be considered too.

A womans weight can easily fluctuate by 2-8lbs or more over the course of a month, with no changes in fat or muscle mass.

Finally, gaining muscle and losing fat will look like no progress on the scale, even though you’ve improved your body composition.

Much more accurate and simple ways of measuring progress in terms of your body composition are: 1 2 3

4

Visual assessment by simply looking in the same mirror Tightness/looseness of clothing Progress photos of yourself every fortnight in the same position and the same light.

Take measurements. Try and get the same person to take the measurements for consistency.

Don’t get caught up in numbers and aim for what’s healthy for you, your body and what makes you feel good. Because we fluctuate so much day to day.

So, if you have been eating well and training well, you’re going to be feeling pretty good and proud of yourself. If the scales show no movement within the week, so what? You’re doing all the right things...be patient and keep going!

Liz can be contacted on 07779 784191 or lizewing58@gmail.com

0141 776 0839 | 0800 234 6534 | 01360 313885 www.emacbus.co.uk enquiries@emacbus.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 21

Park Life recently visited Tir na nOg to interview owner

Oona McFarlane

22 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Tir na nOg is a converted coach-house and courtyard situated in the grounds of a country estate just outside the village of Drymen, on the border of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park.

T

his gem in the countryside is getting more and more popular as Oona explains “Quite often new visitors say that they’ve been meaning for ages to come in and visit, but now wish that they had done so sooner”.

A series of professional therapists are on hand to provide a range of Swedish, Hot Stone or Indian Head massages. There is also Organic Aromatherapy and facials, in fact something for everyone.

The gift shop and Soup Dragon café are popular, with the latter specialising in Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free dishes.

Tir na nOg is also the home of Green Aspirations, who host a series of workshops, events and kids parties. There’s even a spoon hoolie planned for May if you fancy trying out spoon carving!

A new edition this year is Glendrick Animal Roost, they have moved from Aberfoyle and have been busy over recent months preparing suitable accommodation for the many animals that they look after. There will be a chance to meet some of their animals and find out how you can support the charity.

Oona is very excited about the revamped Woodland Walk in the grounds of Tir na nOg, a circular walk through the ancient woodland that has been restored to allow easy access. When we visited there were blankets of snowdrops, hopefully though by the time that you are reading this they will have been replaced by bluebells.

As Oona explains the walk will not just be about the beautiful ancient woodlands, ‘We’ve come up with the idea of an art exhibition with the art presented as part of the walk. Everyone is welcome to come and walk the woodlands and we hope to maybe see them in our shop or café after their walk”.

So for 2018 there is now even more to see and do at Tir na nOg and if you’re one of those people that as previously driven past many times but never been in, now you have no excuse for not calling in!

Tir na nOg holistic centre

Massage Complementary Therapies

NOW OPEN!

THE SOUP DRAGON

at Tir na nOg

Open for light lunches and a range of snacks & drinks 10.30am-5pm 7 days a week

Yoga Classes Workshops Jewellery Crystals Candles Gifts

Gift

Vouchers Available!

T: 01360 449300 Open: every day 10.30am - 5pm www.tirnanog.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 23

2018

Mulberry Bush Montessori Balfron 10K Launch

R

unners in this year’s Mulberry Bush Montessori Balfron 10k might find themselves dog tired after race day but it will be for a good cause.

Their strenuous efforts on Sunday, April 22, 2018 will help collar cash for the unsung heroes of the hills – and their canine companions.

Taking the lead: Search dogs Molly and Nell get a head start on 10k committee members Julie Ross, Derek Townsend, David Ross and Lomond Mountain Rescue Team volunteer Alan McGowan. Picture by Ashley Coombes Photography.

With a reputation as a tough but rewarding test thanks to its undulating route along scenic country roads overlooked by the Campsie Hills, the event attracts club runners, locals, first-time 10k-ers and veterans who return time and again to experience its community spirit.

Last year race organisers altered the route to take in more of the village centre itself – a move which will be repeated in 2018.

Launch: Lomond Mountain Rescue Team volunteer Alan McGowan with his dogs Molly and Nell is pictured front with 10k committee members David Ross, Derek Townsend and Julie Ross at the launch of the 2018 event. Picture by Ashley Coombes Photography.

Alongside the two Balfron schools, Lomond Mountain Rescue Team, one of the busiest mountain rescue teams in Scotland, is to be the charity beneficiary of the Stirlingshire village race. Its voluntary teams, helped by search dogs, assist walkers, runners, cyclists and holidaymakers who find themselves in difficulties in the region.

Now in its 12th year, the MBM Balfron 10k has raised more than £70k for the village’s primary and high schools and nominated charities since it began.

24 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Race director Nigel Johnson said: “The Lomond Mountain Rescue Team volunteers provide an unparalleled service 24 hour a day, 365 days of the year, right on our doorstep. We are pleased to assist them in their unstinting efforts in helping those in need out on the mountains and great outdoors in our area.’’

Nigel added: "Once again we are delighted to be supported by Mairi Clark of Mulberry Bush Montessori as the main sponsor of the Balfron 10k.''

The race, which starts at Balfron Campus at 11am, features an officially measured course, chip-timing, winners’ prizes plus goody bags including commemorative medal and T-shirt.

Entries for the 2018 event are now open, visit www.balfron10k.org.uk

Park Life Feature

Gardening

& Outdoors

“There are

no gardening mistakes, only experiments” Janet Kilburn Philips

“Gardening simply

does not allow one to be mentally old, because too many hopes and dreams are yet to be realized” Allan Armitage

LANDSCAPING | PAINTING | OUTDOOR KITCHENS | FENCING | FURNITURE | GARDEN HELP | TREES | GARDEN CENTRE | 25 HARD LANDSCAPING | LOCAL PRODUCE | GROW YOUR OWN | CARAVANNING | ROOFING |www.parklifescotland.co.uk PAVING | GARDEN BUILDINGS

We need to reduce our carbon footprint So why not start with buying local or grow your own.

W

e’re all growing more conscious of our impact on the environment; which is good news for

as local as possible. 80% of homes in the Parklife area have a garden, so many of us are in a great

local farmers as well as the planet.

position to give planting some potatoes or carrots

Food wrapped in layers of plastic and flown across

a go. Research shows alfresco dining has become

the globe has a big carbon footprint, however if

more popular - as we try to make the most of our

you

visit

your

five

local

annual

summer

farm shop, butcher or

days in Scotland - there

community store, the

has been an increase

produce has likely been

every year in sales of

grown nearby, and uses

garden mood lighting,

less

too.

fire pits, and outdoor

Around here we have a

pizza ovens. What could

great selection of places

be more satisfying than

where we can buy fresh

entertaining friends and

local produce; Farmers’

serving up a fresh salad

Markets in Milngavie,

you’ve grown yourself?

packaging

Balloch, Loch Lomond

If you don’t have a

and Stirling, France Farm shop

at

garden - most herbs

Gartocharn,

grow well in a window-

Benview Nursery in Ward

box, or why not check

Toll, independent bakers and butchers shops, and even an abundance of honesty boxes providing fresh eggs, and some with cakes too!

out if you have a community garden nearby? Drymen and Balfron community projects have developed amazing vegetable patches and herb gardens - a fantastic

With a rise of 360% of folk ‘growing-their-own’ in the

initiative, providing fresh produce to the community

past decade, it looks as though some of us are going

accessible to all.

26 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

How far does your food travel to get to your plate? Buy Local or grow your own… it can be family fun!

INCREDIBLE EDIBLES Community Garden Project, Balfron (Corner of Cotton St, opposite the Bank) FACEBOOK balfronincredibleedibles

COMMUNITY GARDEN Drymen (The Square, beside the Butcher’s shop)

If you’re interested in growing food in your backyard, Park Life offers these tips: •

•

• •

•

Start small and plant things you’d really like to eat.

Pick a spot with at least 6 hours of good daytime light and access to water.

Use contaminant-free soil.

Consider using a raised garden bed, which allows you to control the soil and nutrient blend.

Talk to farmers or other backyard gardeners in your area to get a sense of what grows well in your region and when.

SPRING IS HERE!

Nothing beats a good spring clean to dust off those winter cob webs.

Ecover is eco friendly and tough cleaning so you will be helping the planet and have a clean home all in one. With a variety of cleaning products, including laundry liquid & fabric softener you can be sure you are doing your bit.

To start us on our journey to becoming more friendly to our environment we will introducing less plastic waste with refillable Ecover products. Bring in your clean container and simply refill.

Local venison • Free From • Supplements • Fresh Fruit & Veg • Nuts Spices • Herbs • Local Jams & Chutneys • Speciality Teas • Burts Bees Eco Friendly Household Products • Personal Care 4 Cross Street, Callander FK17 8EA 01877 331994 E-mail: naturescorner44@gmail.com Facebook: @naturecallander

M

FRO

.9IN5G £IN1C2 LUD Y DEL

IVER

FRESH FRUIT & VEGETABLE DELIVERY Delivery as far as Aberfoyle on Thursdays & as far as Lochearnhead on Friday. To order, e mail naturescorner44@gmail.com or message our Facebook page @naturecallander for our online order form. All orders must be made by Wednesday evenings.

Bellsfield Organics Bags available for pick up only.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 27

Park Life | Business

‘passionate about plants’

• Garden Design • Planting & Aftercare • Garden coaching & advice • Border makeovers • Personalised maintenance schedules t: 07773 590516 e: gardenerchick44@hotmail.com www.hollynairn.com Holly Nairn gift voucher.indd 6

Repairs & Services, Secure Storage with 24 Hour CCTV. Caravan and Motorhome sales.

We also fit satellite systems, solar chargers and motor movers.

01786 489022 The Yard, Sauchenford, Plean, FK7 8AP

www.stirlingshirecaravans.co.uk

28 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

30/09/2015 14:57

Park Life | Business

Professional Tree Surgeons • Tree Removals • Tree Pruning • Hedge Cutting • Stump Removal • Tree Surveys • Logs

Easter Fun Weekend Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April 11am - 3pm (drop-in) £5 per explorer, adults go free

Our qualified, insured and experienced team is based in Doune, specialising in all aspects of tree surgery and arboriculture.

Bring the whole family along for springtime adventures, nature crafts and a treasure hunt at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond. Explore our paths, go in search of mini-beasts and take part in a treasure hunt in the woods.

Nature Fun Day - Monday 7 May 10.30am - 3pm, £5 per explorer Booking required Bring the whole family along for nature adventures and wildlife crafts. Go on a mini-beast safari, try out frog hunting and even make a bug B&B to take home. Please contact us to book a timeslot between 10.30am & 3pm.

Call or email Malcolm Roy for a free, no obligation quote.

OFqFuo!te 5% u y en o

Wh

Life Park zine a g a M

Bluebells and Birdsong - Sunday 27 May 8am - 10am £7, £5.50 for members A morning walk through bluebell filled woodlands, listening to birdsong is very special. We’ll be taking a walk along the trails and listening out for some of the summer visitors on their return from Africa. Please wrap up and wear suitable clothing and wellies as we are likely to walk ‘off path’ and over muddy ground.

Booking essential

T : 01786 821750 M : 07428 122018 E: malcolm@tdtrees.co.uk www.tdtrees.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 29

SCOTIA CONTRACTS

GROUNDWORKS | LANDSCAPING | BUILDING

• Site clearance, excavations, foundations and driveway construction.

• Land drainage, Drainage and septic tank installation.

• Extensions, remodelling and conversions.

• Garage, garden room and holiday cabin construction.

• Patios, fencing, decking and turfing.

We take great care and pride in the work we do, so if you like what you see please feel free to call us on 07818 002770 for a FREE consultation. kenny.stewart@scotiacontracts.co.uk | www.parklifescotland.co.uk 30

www.scotiacontracts.co.uk

Park Life | Business

re

off

% itu 50 urn lf al

Huge range of Wild Bird food & Pet Supplies

We are now taking orders for Hanging baskets Café by Macmillan’s

Garden Sundries - Bulbs - Plants - Pet Care Gifts & Food - Tool Sharpening - Composts

T: 01360 850525 Email: info@benviewgardencentre.co.uk www.benviewgardencentre.co.uk

Ward Toll, Aberfoyle, G63 0QZ

Bedding plants, fruit, shrubs, roses, trees & much more.

www.dugieclarkstonework.co.uk

Garages & Bothies Bridge Repairs New Houses & Extensions Garden Features Dry Stone Dykes Building Conservation Patios & Paving Private & Commercial Work Shandon Wood, Ruskie, Stirling FK8 3LG | Tel: 07734 069952Tel: 01786 850764 | Email: dugieclarkcm@btinternet.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 31

Decking, fencing & outdoor timber Artificial turf Turfing Grass cutting & hedge cutting General garden maintainence Power washing

For a free no obligation quote call Pat Call: 07891868143 Email: harpergardenservices@gmail.com 32 |

Pat works all year round

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Graham Sandals

Enduring structures in Scottish Larch Cabins, bothies, huts, and shelters

U

sing Scottish grown Larch, Graham designs and creates enduring structures that silver beautifully to look good in the landscape with a low environmental impact. British sheep's wool insulation, double glazing and wood burning stoves keep you cosy, and there is a variety of roof finishes to complement

each design. The result is a robust and durable building that will give many years of service.

Graham works with his clients to create buildings that meet their specific needs - be that an off grid bothy or modern garden office. Recent projects have included buildings as diverse as a hut for fishing beat, a Kuti meditation hut as well a a range of garden buildings. Including workshops, garages and open shelters ranging in size from 9m2 to 44m2. The buildings will fit most needs for additional creative or recreational space. With many people using them for rental income as holiday lets and Glamping huts, where they have the space and associated services.

If you have a project you would like to discuss you can contact Graham at info@grahamsandals.co.uk or call 01786 841788 or 07773 809345.

Graham Sandals

Cabins, bothies & huts in home grown Scottish larch Unit 5 Craigarnhall, Bridge of Allan, Stirling FK9 4NG Tel: 01786 841788 • Mobile: 07773 809345

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 33

Park Life | Business

Natural Stone

Architectural ~ Walling ~ Paving ~ Ornamental All Enquiries Welcome

Thornhill: 01786 850400 | Livingston: 01506 873081 | info@tradstocks.co.uk

www.tradstocks.co.uk

For sales or service of all types of ground care & garden equipment‌

...Hire or buy locally at Stirling Road, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0AA T: 01360 660 688 www.frasercrobb.co.uk 34 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Cameron

Garden & Grounds Maintenance • Lawncare • Grass Cutting • Turfing • Hedge Trimming

• Tree Services • Garden Clearance • General Maintenance • Winter Gardening

“I found Russell very reliable, professional and a fast worker achieving a lot in a days work” Lisa, Killearn

Russell Cameron Fully qualified greenkeeper T: 07425164195 E: cameronlc@sky.com

Garden Help Weeding • Pruning Planting • Spring Tidy Bespoke Maintenance

Olivia Spencer 07889 108518 Email: oliviahespencer@yahoo.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 35

Park Life

Gardening Tips APRIL 1 2 3

4 5

Craig Tree Care

Keep weeds under control Tie in climbing & rambling roses Sow hardy annuals, herbs & wild flower seed outdoors Feed hungry shrubs & roses Sow new lawns or repair bare patches

Professional Tree Surgeons

full range of work with trees including: • Pruning & reduction • Tree removal & replacement • Consultancy & advice • Conservation & preservation

t: 01360 449 275 | m: 07725 834 846

WIN! with

Park Life Magazine

MAGAZINE

Don’t forget our fabulous COMPETITIONS!

Shock City Concert Tickets p12 Macrobert Family Ticket p46 Sugar Boat Lunch for two with wine p62 To enter our competitions visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

John Currie BR ICK & STONEWOR K

Stonework and PavingSkills Specialist Tr aditional

Stone Your Walling &Home Traditional For & Brickwork Garden Natural Indian & York Stone Paving Specialist Barn & Property Renovation • Bespoke Features Stone Walling & Traditional Brickwork Dry Stone Walling • Steps & Paths Natural Indian & York Stone Paving Specialist Lime Mortar Work & Repointing • Patios Barn & & Property Slabbing •Renovation Fireplaces Bespoke Features General Building & Property Maintenance Dry Stone walling

CALL TODAY FOR FREE ADVICE & QUOTATION Lime Mortar Work & Repointing

T: 01360 440893 07966 864811 Steps &M: paths E: johncurrie@hotmail.com Patios & Slabbing Fireplaces

General Building & Property Maintenance

36 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

call today for free

for April

& May

MAY 1 2

3 4 5 6

"

Watch out for late frosts. Protect tender plants Plant out summer bedding at the end of the month (except in cold areas) Open greenhouse vents & doors on warm days Mow lawns weekly Check for nesting birds before clipping hedges Lift & divide overcrowded clumps of daffodils & other spring-flowering bulbs

The glory of gardening, hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature.

To nurture a garden is to feed not just Alfred Austin the body, but the soul

"

TOP TIP!

To keep your garden looking great keep your lawn edges cut and tidy‌.. it makes the world of difference!

All types of quality timber buildings built to your own specification.

Fencing, gates & decking Agent for Lidget Compton Concrete Garages Kersie Bank, Kersie Terrace, South Alloa, Stirlingshire FK7 7NJ Open Tel 01324 831033 / 0777 057 4461 www.patersonsgardenbuildings.co.uk 7 days

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 37

Park Life | Business

MACINTOSH

• All types of fencing erected, no job too big or small • Fence maintenance • Garden & tree clearing & maintenance

FENCING

CONTRACTING For all your equestrian, agricultural & garden fencing needs As farmers and horse owners we understand the importance of excellent fencing and services

• Paddock maintenance, fencing, spraying & harrowing NEW POO HOOVERING PADDOCK CLEANING Monthly price plans available to help you keep on top of your poo picking. Helps reduce worm burden and risk of equine grass sickness.

10% discount on paddock cleaning if you mention this advert!

Talk to us about how we can help you • Free no obligation quotes • Quality service guaranteed

Contact James Macintosh on 07969 506305 or Hannah MacIntosh on 07875 321788 or email us on macintoshfencing@gmail.com

MacIntosh Fencing

Park Life Magazine

June-July Edition 2018 Your what’s on guide and advertiser for West Stirlingshire, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Forth Valley Open Studios

Over 140 participating artists at 80 different locations

JUNE JULY 2018

20,000

copies printed.

Delivered by Royal Mail

Homes & Interiors Feature Top tips and guide to all things local

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme

Open days in the Park Life area

coming soon!

Our next edition covers June & July 2018, Copy deadline is 14th May.

Forth Valley Open Studios Homes & Interiors Feature Scotland's Gardens Scheme Contact Park Life - Get in touch Katrina - Director | e: katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk m: 07791 976910 t: 01360 550857 Lisa - Sales Director | e: lisa@parklifescotland.co.uk m: 07792 066706 t: 01360 550857

Bringing your local community together covering: Strathblane • Blanefield • Croftamie • Drymen • Killearn Balfron • Balmaha • Rowardennan • Gartocharn • Fintry • Buchlyvie • Arnprior • Kippen • Gargunnock Thornhill Ruskie • Port of Menteith • Callander • Kilmahog • Brig O Turk • Aberfoyle • Kinlochard • Balloch • Gartmore

38 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Parklife Magazine, Killearn Mill, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LQ www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Of Killearn Professional, fully guaranteed, high standard of work carried out by qualified tradesmen.

Interior and Exterior • Painting • Coving Paper Hanging • Ames Taping

Plastering Service Now Available Call Timmy Kearney for a free, no obligation quote.

52 Charles Crescent, Drymen G63 0BU Email: Endrick.decorators@btinternet.com

Tel: 01360 660407 Mobile: 07591 586596 J Brand Decorating All aspects of interior and exterior decorating and plasterwork undertaken.

5 Kiltrochan Drive, Balfron G63 0QJ

T: 01360 440 945 M: 07867672495 E: jackbrand@btinternet.com

All types of painting& decorating work undertaken blainpainters@outlook.com www.blainpainters.com 07876 025219 / 01360 850441 43 Main Street, Buchlyvie FK8 3LR

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 39

Park Life | Business

Strathendrick Decorating Plastering & Joinery

John Gault m: 07748 283947 Allan Denton m: 07984 549933 Joe McLaren m: 07980 983995 Email: strathdp@hotmail.com Interior, Exterior Paint Work.

Ames Taping. Coving and all types of Plasterwork. Joinery.

For all your maintenance needs...

LOCAL PLUMBING AND GAS WORK CARRIED OUT 24 HOURS Local affordable Gas Safe Plumbing company for all types of gas and plumbing work that you require small jobs or big jobs.

Full Bathroom and Kitchen renovations carried out to suit all budgets • One Standard Hourly • Free Quotes rate any time of day • Oap Discounts • Fixed prices available • Gas Safe Registered • No callout charges

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Thistle Plumbing Services

Tel: 07725 939021 40 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Over 19 years experience

Proprietor Gavin McGregor

• Roughcasting • Gutters • Joiner • Slating • Leadwork • Storm Damage • All aspects of roofing work carried out • Rubber roofing for flat roofs • Sandstone Repair & Restoration • Family Business • EPDM Roofing System

T: 01389 605352 M: 07519 267764 CONTRACTORS

www.rmcontractors.pro

Park Life | Business

call us today:

01360 770708 07968 831313

Time served quality tradesmen

We are a family business providing a range of services throughout Glasgow and the surrounding areas in Stirlingshire. All our quotations are free of charge and carry no obligation.

Services:

• Re-roofing • Guttering Services • Insurance & General • Slating & Tiling • Velux Windows • Roughcasting & Leadwork • Soffit & Fascia • Chimney Work

www.gs-roofing.co.uk • info@gs-roofing.co.uk 23 Kirkland Avenue, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9BY

STEWART REID

Plumbing Services

Bathroom Suites Supplied & Fitted from £1495 Kitches & Central Heating fitted

Boiler Exchanges

Outdoor Taps Fitted from £59

Gutters repaired Fitted & cleared

No call out fees

All plumbing enquiries contact Stewart: 07938 473604 / 07938 473571 Stewart.reid3467@gmail.com

Need it Done Right?

DUNRITE PLUMBING Pride in Workmanship

Minor repairs to complete installation

Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens No call out charge FREE Estimates Fully Insured

T: 01360 550799 M: 07772944521 E: dunrite.plumbing3@gmail.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Spring Highlights from Culture Stirling…

Chris Stout & Catriona McKay - 28 April The Searchers - 20 April Ali Affleck & The Copper Cats - 11 May All Our Yesterdays - 27 April Counterfeit 60’s - 12 May Breabach - 17 May AnDa Union - 26 May Islands In The Stream - 17 May Ralph McTell & Wizz Jones - 15 June Phil & Aly - 18 May McCusker & Talbot Duo - 22 June Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain - 23 May Magic of Motown - 1 June Fred MacAulay 30 Years On - 23 June Blazin’ Fiddles with Karen Matheson - 31 August Tom Allen - 28 June For more information & full listings visit www.culturestirling.org or call the box office 01786 27 4000 / 473 544

We are entering our second year as a member operated club and there’s never been a better time to join us at Buchanan Castle.

So, if you have an interest in golf come along and give us a try!

It’s

BUCHANAN time.

£500

for New Members with further discounts for Family, Youth (18-24) and Juniors.

Full members can introduce one Junior free of charge.

Corporate and Off Peak packages.

Beautiful flat parkland course.

We welcome families.

We run golf camps for junior tuition in school holidays.

Great Clubhouse facilities.

2 PGA teaching professionals.

Buchanan Castle Golf Club

Buchanan Castle Estate | Drymen | Stirlingshire | G63 OHY | Tel: 01360 660330 | www.buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk

42 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Covering: Drymen, Balfron, Killearn, Buchlyvie, Kippen, Fintry, Thornhill, Gargunnock & Stirling. If you are just outside these areas please call and we can see what we can do Segway Trekking is one for you.

of our new activities...

We offer: Group dog walks • Adventure Dog Days These unique machines are (We take your dog up one of Scotlands Mountains) fascinating and fun to operate.

Doggie Day Care • Pet Taxi • Pet Visits • Canicross

Suitable for all above 10 years old and below 17 stone. The 45 min session includes indoor training followed by an outdoor experience for £20.

Pony Trekking- age 4 & above £18 (1 hour) £32 (2 hours) Reduction for families of 4 and more. Pony Rides £10 (1/2

hour sessions).

Other activities include Contact James on 07376 181017 orienteering, Shetland Email James@Adventuredogsstirling.co.uk driving and Nordic walking. www.adventuredogsstirling.co.uk adventuredogss

TRY SOMETHING NEW TODAY...

• Pony Club & Sunday morning 10am-12pm • Riding lessons for children on Sunday afternoon & 3.30-5pm on week nights and adult lessons on weekdays • Pony/Horse share opportunities • Adult lessons weekdays • Horsemanship workshops led by Johnnie Smith • Horse management sessions (evenings and weekdays) • Segways in the shed 1/2 hr sessions of indoor challenges & parties • Children`s pony parties

www.castlerednock.com Email rednocktrekking@yahoo.com Visit our Facebook page for further information

Tel: 01877 385276 | 07801 699497

♥ wonderland ♥ gifts ♥ jewellery ♥ toys

www.awonderland.co.uk ♥ 147 Buchanan St, Balfron ♥ www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 43

Park Life | Business

s

Saturday 26th May

A fun filled day for all the family!

2018

s

£8 Adult • £5 Child 5-16 or Pensioner Children Under 5 Free • Parking Free

Just some of the entertainment on the day!

s

It is the 202nd year of Strathendrick Agricultural Society, which hosts the show and have arranged the following attractions and entertainment along side our usual agricultural and light horse classes.

Cattle • Sheep • Highland Ponies • Clydesdales Light Horse • Showjumping • Trade Stands Craft Tent • Schools Tent • Pet Tent SWI (Rural) Tent (hosting Drymen Show Bake Off) Helicopter Rides • Free Prize Draw • Fun Fair Vintage Tractors • Sheep Shearing Demonstration Learning Zone - “Meet The Vet, The Judge, The Sheep”!

Schools 5-A-Side Football • Kids Races Heavy Horse Display • Fancy Dress On Horseback Live Bands - Gartocharn Ukelele Band • Beer Tent Catering Facilities Main ring attraction - Les Amis Equine Stunt Team performing a Horse Power Cossack Trick Riding Show and Mounted Archery!

Trade Stand, Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities Available.

44 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk Details from David Steel david.keirhill@btconnect.com or at www.drymenshow.com

Park Life | Business

WIN!

Elin Isaksson

Hand blown glass gifts Rooms at Green gallery 18 Mar-6 Apr & 14-15 Apr Falleninch Farm 9-10 June

with Park Life Magazine

Studio & Gallery (Open by app) Braehouse | Touch | Stirling | FK8 3AH E: info@elinisaksson.com T: 07968871439

Win a family ticket on our two hour sailing on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott!

Value £42 To enter visit Online shop: www.scotlandglassblowing.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

FAMILY SHOWS @ Connect With Us:

MacrobertArtsCentre

@Macrobert

Sell A Door Family and ABA International Touring

Children’s Classic Concerts

GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU

PETER AND THE WOLF

Mon 30 Apr to Wed 2 May, 4.30pm Tue 1 & Wed 2 May, 10am Tickets: £8.50 / £30 Wee Group Saver (any 4 peeople)

Book tickets:

For age 3+

For ages 4 to 12

Sun 20 May, 2.30pm Tickets: £8.50 / £30 Wee Group Saver (any 4 peeople)

01786 466666 | www.macrobertartscentre.org

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 45

Park Life | Business

WEDDINGS

FAMILY PORTRAITS

CAMERA COURSES

TEL: 01360 661 029

PHOTOGRAPHY

WIN A *FAMILY TICKET

FOR PETER & THE WOLF AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE

Children’s Classic Concerts’ Essential Orchestra is back in Stirling with a brand-new concert featuring Prokofiev’s iconic fairytale, brought to life by their very own musical characters.

Come along for a fantastical adventure of musical storytelling as the musicians transport you from Peter’s enchanted forest to Romeo and Juliet’s castle, stopping off for a spin around Sleeping Beauty’s ballroom. And we’ll need your help in the Wizard’s dungeon conjuring up some magic to help the Sorcerer’s Apprentice get those brooms under control! *Subject to availability. Family ticket (any 4 people)

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk 46 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.paulsaundersphotography.com

Park Life | Business

www.shockcity.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 47

one

BIG day out

for all the family!

Gifts • Clothing • Whisky • Food • Beer Garden Large Restaurant • Kids Play Area • Free Animal Shows Toilet Facilities • Disabled Access EASY TO FIND US

LOTS TO SEE & DO

TEA FOR TWO

• Miniature Horses • Variety of Hens • Daily Shows in our paddock Contact us for more information and times.

only

15

£

Off Main Street, Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire, FK8 3UQ 48 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Tel 01877 382850 Email swc@ewm.co.uk

Park Life | Business

visit us razzamataz.co.uk

Water Park • Kayaking • Hamster Ball • Canoeing Horse Riding • Fishing • Archery

Outdoor adventure activities for all ages and abilities Groups • Children Corporate Groups Group and Fun Days Take advantage of our equipment hire experience, we hire all equipment including Canoe and Bike Hire!

We are the ideal place for boys and girls age 4-18 with an interest in performing, to learn Pop Singing, Street Dance, Musical Theatre & Drama!

NOW ENROLLING! For further details contact: Mark Long E: balfron@razzamataz.co.uk

Tel: 0141 576 4569 / 07715 301841

BOOK TODAY!

Go Country, Kinlochard, nr Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire FK8 3TL Tel: 01877 387750 0845 6437089 lo-call rate Email: info@gocountry.co.uk www.gocountry.co.uk

Clay Pigeon & Rifle Shooting • Mountain Biking Gorge Walking • Climbing & Abseiling

2018 Membership Offer - Discount for multiple new members

1= £330 2= £600 3= £825 4= £1,000

Contact our Secretary (Bob Carmichael) for further details Email: secretary@aberfoylegolf.co.uk or Tel: 01877 382751 www.aberfoylegolf.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 49

CinemaListings Loch Lomond Sealife Aquarium Cinema www2.visitsealife.com Tel: 01389 721500. Adults £6, Child £5, Under 3 Free

Mugdock Cinema Paint Your Wagon Mon April 9 - 7.30pm Holiday Mon April 23 - 7.30pm Children’s Cinema Club: Despicable Me 3 Sun April 22 - 11am The Monuments Men Mon May 7 - 7.30pm The Others Mon May 21 - 7.30pm Booking Essential 01419566100 £3 Children’s Cinema £4 Adults www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk

Gartmore Community Cinema Evening Screenings: (Door & Bar opens 7.30pm) Ticket Costs: Adults £4.00 Children £2.00 (Under 16) Season Ticket: £20.00 and free entry to ALL films.

Tickets available on the door Season tickets also available in the Gartmore Village shop. www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

Callander Film Society All films start 7.30pm Whisky Galore Sat April 28 The Clanranald Theatre, St Kessogs, Ancaster Square, Callander, Stirlingshire, FK17 8ED. www.bfi.org

Strathendrick Film Society Paper Moon Friday 6 April All films start 7.30pm www.strathfilmsoc.org.uk Entry for non members £5

50 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Events April-May Loch Katrine pg 3 RSPB pg 29 Tolbooth / Albert Halls pg 42 Macrobert Art Centre pg 45 Cinema pg 50 The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre pg 55 Cinema pg 50 Farmers Markets pg 79

The Hill House Easter Egg Hunt

Helensburgh G84 9AQ Fri 30th Mar – Mon 2nd Apr 11.30am - 4.30pm Bring the whole family together this Easter and treat your loved ones to the magic of our Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts! Get ready for a long weekend of fun and discovery as you spot the first signs of spring and experience nature bursting into life at the special places the National Trust

for Scotland looks after. Become a nature detective to follow bunny’s clues and finish your adventure with a delicious chocolatey treat. £2 per hunt

www.nts.org.uk

Loch Lomond Faerie Trail Mar-Sept Tickets £2/£3 (1-2hrs) Luss

Delightfully enchanting Fairy Trail around Loch Lomond.

Enjoy outdoor leisure with the family, come and explore the enchanting Luss faerie home Using your activity booklet, solve the clues & questions to make your way around each point of our unique trail.

www.lochlomondfaerietrail.com

Stars of the Sea

24th Mar – 14th Apr Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium Get closer to our stars and discover their amazing stories at Sea Life!

Journey under the ocean to discover our stars in SEA LIFE's brand new

event, Stars of the Sea. Find out who holds the title of 'Master of Disguise' and who keeps the nicest home across our oceans. You'll meet our blue tangs, clownfish and octopus along our interactive trail along with many more.

www.visitsealife.com

Arnprior Lambing Sun 1st – 9th Apr

Come and visit our farm during one of the busiest times of the year, lambing time.

www.arnpriorfarm.com

Green Gallery Exhibition “Rooms” at Buchlyvie

18th Mar- 6th Apr & 14th-15th Apr Celebrating our 25th anniversary I have put together paintings/ textiles/sculpture/furniture and lighting to create different room experiences, the gallery will look quite different to the way it normally looks!

www.greengallery.com

Balfron Golf Week 14th – 19th May 2018 Balfron Golf Society is pleased to announce a series of events, providing opportunities to have a go, play on our beautiful course, get some professional tuition and, for those already hooked, play in our Annual Open Texas Scramble.

• Aimed at beginners, our Get into Golf taster sessions are for you. With eight scheduled across the week, they will give you the opportunity to have a go for a couple of hours with all the equipment you need provided.

• If you are a more experienced golfer, come and play 18 or 9 holes on our Open Day on Wednesday 16th May to experience our fantastic course, wonderful views and talk to members about why they love to golf at Balfron.

• Our Texas Scramble is an established and very popular Open Competition for golfers holding a CONGU competition handicap playing in teams of 4. We’ve great prizes up for grabs.

• If you are already a member we will be holding golf surgeries to help you hone your game.

Come up to our information session at the club between 4pm - 8pm on Monday 30th April to find out more and book your place or contact us on bgsmemberships@outlook.com Membership of the Club is open – contact the same email for more information.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Events April-May Easter Eggsplorer Trails Dumbarton Sun 1st - Mon 2nd Apr

Back for another year, join in our Easter eggsploration through some of our most iconic castles, abbeys, forts and palaces. Can you find all of the clues and complete the challenge?

Drop-in throughout the day.

For more information call 0131 668 8885 email events@hes.scot

Pop up Charity Shop Balfron Wed 11th-Sun 14th Apr 2pm McLintock Hall. 10am-2pm Donations welcome and can be picked up.

Charlotte Smeed 07891679993 charlottesmeed@gmail.com

Callander Youth Project & The Chocolate Factory

Thurs 12th Apr 12noon-4pm £2 Entry with free homebaking

Cancer Research Band Night See pg 66 Sat 14th Apr Buchlyvie Village Hall

Bring your own bottle and enjoy an evening of music and dance. £10 per person

Debbie 07867523745.

CRUK 2018

Dates for the diary 16 – 22 Apr

Volunteers go House to House for CRUK. Local committee members and a host of volunteers will be collecting donations House to House for Cancer Research. Last year's collection realised more than £11,000 which makes a tremendous contribution to the organisation's vital work.

Buchlyvie Garden Society Meetings

Buchlyvie Village Hall - Apr 19th John Jack "Growing dahlias"

Wooden play equipment for the garden

Get them playing outside with friends and have endless fun!

For more ideas for everyone and to order contact us today.

01577 840570 www.caledoniaplay.com 52 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

New members & visitors welcome.

Tea/coffee and an opportunity to chat or ask questions after the talk.

Drymen Art Club Exhibition Drymen Village Hall Sat 21st – Sun 22nd Apr 10am-5pm Free

Antiques Valuation Day With Anita Manning See pg 72

Fri 27th Apr 10am – 2pm Killearn Kirk

Artlink Central 30th Anniversary Concert

Sat 28th Apr 7.30 - 10.30pm Holy Trinity Church 30th anniversary concert with Tenor, Kenneth Reid, Mezzo Soprano, Penelope Cousland and friends

www.artlinkcentral.org

Events April-May Gartmore Village Hall Jumble Sale/Coffee Morning Sat 28th Apr 10am – 12noon

Donations of good second-hand, clean clothing; toys; bric-a- brac all accepted. Please drop off at the hall on Friday 27th April between 4-5pm or from 9am on Saturday morning.

Entry £3.00 includes tea and coffee

Tir na nOg

See pg23

Beltane Firewalk 28th Apr 6.30-10.30 www.tirnanog.co.uk

Loch Lomond Comic Con Sat 28th – Sun 29th Apr 11am-5pm Entry £2 Under 10’s Free

We head to Loch Lomond Shores to bring you Loch Lomond's spring Comic Con and it's free! Comics, Toys, Guests, Cosplay, Art & Crafts

www.lochlomondshores.com

Rainbow Valley Events

Strathyre Music Festival

Glasgow Kilt Walk 29th Apr Rainbow Warrior Gartocharn Sun 13th May

Strathyre. Fri 25th - Sun 27th May 3 Days of Music

Balfron Golf Week

Drymen Library Events Knit and Natter Group

See pg 16-17

See pg 20

Drymen Show See pg44

See pg51

14th – 19th May

Sat 26th May

30th Apr 10.30 – 12.30

Callander Jazz and Blues Festival

Everyone welcome for knitting and a chat with this friendly group. Free

Fri 25th May 7pm - Midnight.

Every Thurs 4 – 6pm

Festival Fundraiser Event-Jump Jive/Swing/ Dance Evening.

Featuring two top bands. The Swing Commanders and Uncle Red at The Royal Hotel, Bridge Of Allan.

Ticket Price £15pp available from the venue and Poppies Hotel Callander 01877-330329

IT & Me sessions

Drop in session for anyone with IT issues and looking to learn the basics for PC, laptop or tablet. Free

Bookbugs (0-4 years)

24th Apr, 22nd May, 19th Jun 10am – 10.30am Songs, Rhymes and Stories with Bookbug. Free

Cellfield changes lives...

Unlock Potential with Unique Dyslexia Programme

Call Cellfield in STIRLING on

01786 447 527

info@cellfield.co.uk | www.cellfield.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 53

Events April-May Strathendrick Embroiderers’ Guild Exhibition of Work

Stirling 5k

Sun 13th May

22nd Mar until 10th Apr All welcome to view the lovely work during library opening hours. Free

Mulberry Bush Montessori Balfron 10K See pg 24

Sun 22nd Apr Runners in this year’s Mulberry Bush Montessori Balfron 10k might find themselves dog tired after race day but it will be for a good cause.

Stirling Scottish Marathon 29th Apr Blair Drummond Safari Park

With a new start and finish in the city centre this phenomenal course in its second year is an exciting addition to the Great Run Series and offers a truly electric atmosphere.

£10.00 Children| £14.99 Women | £14.99 Young Women Under 6 entry boys & Girls free This is suitable for all abilities.

Thousands of women uniting with one purpose! Walk, Jog or Run to raise valuable funds for research.

This is beating CANCER!

www.cancerresearchuk.org Contact the Sports Team on 0300 123 5461

Gartmore Horticultural Society Charity Plant Sale. Sat 12th May

Antiques Valuation Day

Taster sessions available with tuition & Refreshments.

Killearn Kirk Fri 27th Apr 10-2pm

Killearn Bridge Club www.bridgewebs.com/killearn

Balloch Run ‘n’ Park, Balloch Castle Country Park Every Saturday at 9.30am

West Dunbartonshire Athletics Club host a 2k & 5k run every Saturday at 9.30am, starting just inside the main

WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD can improve if given the right support WE CUSTOMISE a learning plan to suit your child’s learning style.

Our qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods.

Contact our STIRLING CENTRE to find out more

01786 474 818 stirling@kip-mcgrath.com • www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Gartmore Village Hall

Play Bridge

WE UNDERSTAND that every child is unique

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gates of Balloch Park. There is no registration, no fee and no official recording of times, just turn up for a Run in the Park! The run is suitable for all ages but please note that children under 11 years of age must be accompanied by an adult and all participants run at their own risk.

See pg 72

Anita Manning and her team of specialists from Great Western Auctions. The entry fee is £10 and up to three items can be brought by each person Detailed photographs of larger items can also be brought for valuation Tea/coffee will be available.

Professional Tutoring in Maths and English

Call TODAY for a free assessment Tutoring at Kip is fun and stimulating!

e tr n e C r o it is V t s e r The nLdaoilyd, AgprileandFMoay from 10am Ope

Watch the ospreys live on screen as they prepare their nest for the summer. Follow their journey as they hopefully lay their eggs and see them hatch in late May/early June. There will be a live camera on the Peregrines too.

Enjoy our Spring Trail, nature play and spot a red squirrel down at the wildlife hide after taking in the spectacular view of the Waterfall.

Call: The Lodge on 0300 067 6615 or Email: thelodge@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

www.forestry.gov.uk/qefp Follow us on

@LodgeAberfoyle

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Train - Play Relax - Compete -Swimming Pool -Sports Hall -Climbing Wall -Fitness Suite -Parties -3G Pitch -Soft Play

McLaren Leisure, Mollands Road Callander, Perthshire,FK17 8JP www.mclarenleisure.co.uk

Event Venue

@

Buchanan Castle Golf Club

Film Location ~ Conferences & Meetings ~ Weddings Themed Events ~ Family Celebrations ~ Private Dining ~ Marquee Site Contact: 01360 660307/01360 870382 or info@buchananestates.co.uk

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recipe...

Y

asmin of Scotia Spice shows us how to cook authentic Punjabi food from scratch through her local cookery school, her curry kits and her latest range of individual recipe kits.

My daughter asked me to include this recipe as it’s one of her favourite! Aloo tikki are popular street food throughout the Punajb and very easy to make at home.

Visitors to the cookery school are often surprised that so few ingredients can produce such a delicious result. Serve with salad for a light meal or on their own as a snack or make wee versions and serve as nibbles.

Aloo Tikki

Delicious

Hot or Cold

Aloo Tikki 350g floury potatoes (e.g. Maris Piper) ½ small onion 1 tbsp full fat yoghurt ¼ tsp chilli powder or to taste Salt to taste 1 egg, beaten 3 tbsp vegetable oil plus extra if required Peel and dice the potatoes and then boil until tender, as you would for mashed potatoes. Set to one side until cool to the touch.

Chop the onion very finely and add to the potatoes with the yoghurt, chilli and salt. Mix thoroughly with your hands breaking down any large lumps but leaving a few smaller ones. The texture should be similar to lumpy mashed potatoes.

Divide the potato mix into 6 to 8 portions and roll into balls and then flatten into patties, smoothing any rough edges as you go.

Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan to medium high.

Dip the tikki into the beaten egg and shallow fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Carefully remove them to a plate lined with kitchen paper. Add extra oil if required for the next batch. The tikki will firm up as they cool. www.scotiaspice.co.uk info@scotiaspice.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 57

As Scotland’s oldest registered licensed premises, The Clachan Inn is steeped in history.

Large Whisky Selection • Real Ales • Beer List • Scottish Craft Gins Stone baked pizzas available sit in or takeaway.

Restaurant with extensive menu and weekly specials.

Food served all day - Now taking bookings.

Gift

Vouch e

Availab rs le

The Square, Drymen, Near Loch Lomond G63 0Bl | Tel: 01360 660824 | E: Info@clachaninndrymen.co.uk 58 |

Open 11am - 1am Friday & Saturday • Children welcome • Dogs welcome

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

The Old Bank in Callander welcomes Chef Gareth Fail

W

e would like to welcome Gareth Fail to our team. We have known Gareth for a number of years as his wife Lizanne has worked with us since we opened 15 years ago and we are delighted with his decision to join us.

Gareth has been a chef for most of his working life spending the last 9 years with the Mhor Group. He is keen to expand the hours at The Old Bank so from Easter we will be open earlier in the morning (9.00 a.m.) for breakfast and in the evening we will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday for evening dinners with a new and exciting Dinner Menu.

Early evening High Teas 4pm - 6pm daily 5 Main Street, Callander - Tel: 01877 330269

High Teas served every day 4-6pm Open Thursday to Saturday evening with our new menu from Easter.

A relaxed, informal neighbourhood bistro offering great food at great value in a warm and welcoming environment.

Lunch and Early Supper Menu £13.50 or £16.50 - 2/3 courses Full a la carte available - Extensive Wine Shop See our website for all menus, times etc.

These 3 reviews surely can’t be wrong!

Ron Mackenna Saturday Herald ‘FLAWLESS’ 28/30

Michael Deacon Saturday Telegraph ‘THE PUDDING WOULD BE WORTH GETTING FAT FOR’ 4.5/5

Joanna Blythman Sunday Herald ‘A SWEET DREAM’ 9.5/10

30 Colquhoun Square, Helensburgh G84 8AQ | 01436 647 522 | www.sugarboat.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 59

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park A Dog Walking Paradise

I

n Scotland, over 1 in 5 households have pet dogs… and it’s no wonder. Dogs are loyal, clever, and lots of fun!

They are even known to improve our physical and mental health. Let’s be honest, is there a better place to take your four-legged friend for a walk in the gorgeous Parklife area? We don’t think so, so we have complied a few of our favourite local walks for you and your furry friends to try.

Balloch: Directly on the south-east shores of Loch Lomond sits Balloch Castle Country Park – 200 acres of woodland, parkland and gardens. It’s the Loch’s only country park, and has incredible views over the water. Pets are welcome so it’s a fantastic place to explore with your dog, and they can even have a dip in the loch too!

Aberfoyle: The Dog Friendly village! From the Post Office to the pubs, many places in Aberfoyle permit dogs, making it perfect for a day trip. For a short walk head alongside the River Forth behind the car park.

It’s away from traffic, and has ample doggie bins! Or why not head to the Lodge Visitor Centre, where they have a range of trails, and for all canine visitors there’s water

60 |

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available and sheltered external tie-up points. They have a wonderful and easy-going ‘Waterfall Trail’, or for the more adventurous try their ‘Lime Craig Trail’ - your dog will love running up the slopes, and you’ll get amazing views of the Highland Boundary Fault from the top.

Drymen:

Take the Old Gartmore Road north and head to Garadhban Forest – a peaceful woodland that sits on the crossroads of two moderate walks. It’s the perfect place to spend an hour or two with nature. Or why not tick off a part of the West Highland Way? Head from the forest up and over the Conic Hill. If you make it to the top, you’ll witness the best views of Loch Lomond and its islands. A great walk that will tire out even the most energetic of pooches!

Remember to respect where you are walking your dog.

Carry poo bags and deposit them in a bin, pop your dog back on its lead if you meet another dog on one, and ensure your dog is under control at all times – don’t let them scare farm animals or upset wildlife.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 61

Park Life | Business

Win a two W Course lunch P wIithN! a for two with a Magrak zLiife ne bottle of wine at the Sugar Boat!

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS

FABRICS • WALLPAPER • LIGHTING • FURNITURE 16 BALFRON RD, KILLEARN G63 9NJ • T: 01360 550830

INTERIOR DESIGN

SALE FABRIC WALLPAPER LAMPS CHANDELIERS MIRRORS RUGS FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES

A GREAT RANGE OF FABRIC REMNANTS & LARGE PIECES IDEAL FOR CUSHION COVERS, BLINDS & COVERING CHAIRS.

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk or visit our Facebook page - Park Life Magazine

Fantastic Discounts for Park Life readers!

TD Trees 5% OFF p29 Calido Stove 20% OFF p9 Aberfoyle Golf Club DISCOUNTS p49 Benview Garden Centre 50% OFF p31 Apollo Blinds 50% OFF p70 The Laundry Lady 20% OFF p78 62 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

OPENING TIMES: WEEKENDS ONLY 12-4pm AT PANIK GALLERY, 13 MAIN STREET, KILLEARN

Tel: 01360 550830

Park Life | Business

A collection of the UK’s leading flooring brands presented by knowledgeable and friendly staff. Unrivalled customer service and value for money.

Appointed Farrow & Ball wallpaper and paint stockist 82 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HS | 01786 833 383 | enquiries@theflooringstudios.com

Fresh ideas in store for your home this Spring We have had a bit of a makeover and would be delighted to help you plan yours for your home.

We have lots of new ranges including Alterntive Flooring's colourful Margo Selby stripes and Amtico's new Spacia herringbone designs. We also welcome 2 new manufactures - Roger Oates stunning runners and rugs and Harvey Maria individual and contemporary design floors.

Our small team of experienced and

friendly consultants are happy to assist you in selecting your preferred flooring to compliment existing or new decor schemes and to liaise with designers and other trades. We offer specialist in-house flooring advice for new builds and extensions and operate a home sampling service covering Central Scotland and a complimentary estimating service.

All aspects of our flooring installations are planned, coordinated and

guaranteed and we work with specialist carpet, hard floor and wood installers. We have a large and varied selection of products from all the leading manufacturers on show. Our own Greendale ranges are excellent value for money whatever your project and budget.

Visit our recently refurbished showroom or visit our new website www.theflooringstudios.com to find out more.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 63

Recipe from The Fintry Inn new menu Braised Moroccan Lamb rump with Pomegranate, mint cous cous & wilted pak choi

Ingredients Lamb

4 heads of pak choi 4x 180g Trimmed Lamb Rumps 1 tsp cayenne pepper 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 ½ tsp paprika 1 ½ tsp ground ginger 1 tsp turmeric 2 tsp cinnamon 2 large white onions(chopped) Olive oil for cooking 2 tsp garlic puree 2x 400g tins chopped tomatoes 570ml tomato juice 115g chopped dried apricots 55g chopped dates

85g flaked almonds 600ml chicken stock 1 tsp honey 2 tsp chopped coriander ½ tsp salt

Cous cous

400g cous cous 450ml boiling chicken stock 1 seeded pomegranate 2 tsp chopped coriander 2 tsp chopped mint 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cumin ½ tsp salt Pinch of pepper 1 chopped shallot 2 dessert spoons olive oil

Fintry Inn Chef Peter Carey

Method Lamb 1 2

3 4 5

pan fry lamb rumps in olive oil until browned and put in a deep casserole dish. in a separate pan fry onions, and garlic in olive oil then add cayenne pepper, black pepper, paprika, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon and salt. add tinned tomatoes, tomato juice and chicken stock. add apricots, dates, almonds, honey and chopped coriander. add mix to lamb, cover and cook at 160 degrees Celsius for 2 ½ hours

Cous cous 1 2

3 4 5

put cous cous in a heatproof bowl. add pomegranate, chopped coriander, chopped mint, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, pepper, chopped shallot and olive oil. add boiling chicken stock and mix thoroughly. cover with cling film and stand for 5 minutes fluff with fork and ready to serve.

Pak choi 64 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Blanch the pak choi in boiling water for 20 seconds, drain and toss in a hot frying pan with a knob of butter and seasoning, Serve together with the lamb and cous cous with a generous helping of fresh coriander to garnish.

THE

Park Life | Business

EST 1750 Fresh food prepared using locally sourced ingredients where possible

Open 12pm - Midnight Mon - Thur & 1am Fri & Sat • Sun 12.30pm - Midnight Food served from 12pm - 9pm every day Sunday from 12.30pm 2-4-1 Steak Night on Fridays

Monthly Pub Quiz

LIVE

Main Street Fintry • Tel: 01360 860224

MUSIC!

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 65

Cancer Research Band Night

F

ollowing the success of last year's Band Night, CRUK Strathendrick Local Committee are to stage another such event. It will be held on Saturday 14th April in Buchlyvie Village Hall. Once again Acoustic Station will provide the music and the committee will provide a light supper buffet. There will be a superb raffle and some interesting items for auction.

Acoustic Station are again performing free of charge and many local businesses have come up trumps with their repeated support of this good cause.

Get your tickets now as they were much in demand last year. Bring your own bottle and enjoy an evening of music and dance.

For tickets - £10 per person please contact Debbie on 07867 523745.

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS ACCESSORIES • CARDS • COFFEE SHOP

16 BALFRON RD, KILLEARN G63 9NJ • T: 01360 550830

free design service complete project management full installation service bespoke kitchen furniture

Giving your home the interior it deserves

family run business

01360 661456 www.mykitcheninteriors.com

In The Scottish Stove Centre

63, Main Street, Croftamie, G63 0EU

66 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

LIGHT LUNCHES & FABULOUS BAKING ALL HOMEMADE • OPEN 7 DAYS

Park Life | Business

built on trust

solicitors & estate agents

Out-of-Hours and Home Appointments available.

• Wills and Executries • Power of Attorney • Asset Protection • Buying and Selling Property

Suzie Falconer Your Local Solicitor

Top Quali Top Quality Top QualityGarageGara Door Garage Doors We can auto 0141 847 4946 suzie.falconer@walkerlaird.co.uk

www.walkerlaird.co.uk

SUPPLIED & INSTAL

SUPPLIED INSTALLED Roller We can&automate

your existing d Roller We can automate your existing door

Roller

We replace, repair, automate and service SD GARAGE DOORS Automatic Door all types of 20 Years Experience Automatic Door Up We replace, repair, automate and service garage doors garage doors and automatic openers. We Automatic Door Up & Over We replace, repair, automateand and service all types of Sectio automatic RETRACTABLE ROLLER of doorsWe to have suit every style of home and eve garage doors and automatic openers. a range We replace, repair, automate and service all types of Sectional openers. of doors to suit every style of home and everyDoor budget.

• Garage Installations garage doors and automatic openers. We have a range of doors to suit every style of home and every budget.

• Garage Door Repairs • Garage Door Installations

We have a range of doors to suit every styleE: info@sdgarag E: info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk of home and www.sdgarage www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk any budget.Stirling: Glasgow:

• Garage Door Repairs • Garage Door Installations • Garage Door Repairs

See what customers have E: our info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk to say. We’ve partnered with www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk 0141 250 7787 01786 845 866 Trustpilot, an independent Glasgow: Stirling: Ayrshire: Helensb review0141 site to help our7787 01786 845 866 01292 501 253 01436 250 We accept all major credit cards. customers share their Glasgow: Stirling: Ayrshire: Helensburgh: of845 SD Garage Doors 0141 250 7787 experience 01786We 866 01292 01436 653 076 accept all major credit cards.501 253 with people like you.

Covering Glasgow & The West

Call us now on 01786 845 866

We accept all major credit cards. info@sdgaragedoors.co.uk www.sdgaragedoors.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

MORRIS ARCHITECTS

ROWAN HOUSE, 4 CASTLE GARDENS B A L L I K I N R A I N , B A L F R O N , G 6 3 0 LT TEL 01360 441 075 MOB 07866 426 746 EMAIL morris.architects@btinternet.com

Make the most of your space extensions new build houses home offices Whether you want a contemporary or traditional design, we cover all aspects of the design process from initial sketches through to detailed design as well as negotiating the Planning and Building Warrant Standards procedures.

W

W

MW CONSULTANTS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Please call Murray tel: 07799 778086 email: murray@mw-consultants.co.uk www.mw-consultants.co.uk

68 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Colin Johnson Furnishings

Traditional Upholstery Service

Commercial & Domestic Work Undertaken Furniture Repair & Restoration

FOR SALE

Quality Upholstery and Curtain Fabric, Isle and Islay Mills, Ross, Wemyss, Bute, etc Traditional upholstery classes, Day, Evening & Weeklong classes Cushion making & revamp service, curtain making & track for sale

WANTED AND FOR SALE

Antique Chairs, Sofas & Stools, French, Georgian, Victorian etc Tel 01786 850 615 E: Colin.johnson6@btconnect.com The Old Schoolhouse, Ruskie by Stirling FK8 3LG

Time Served Uupholsterer & Furniture Restorer Enquiries Welcome

BLINDS BLINDS BLINDS OUR PRICES CANNOT BE BEATEN 07595265062 NO JOB 07715559199 TOO ROMAN BLINDS ROLLER BLINDS VENETIAN BLINDS VERTICAL BLINDS PLEATED BLINDS PANEL BLINDS VELUX BLINDS CONSERVATORY BLINDS MOTORISED BLINDS WOODEN BLINDS SHUTTERS

SMALL

BLIND REPAIRS

MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS PELMETS AND HEADBOARDS FREE EXPERT INSTALLATION DAYTIME, EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS

WWW.JWALKERINTERIORS.COM phone for a free quote now EMAIL: INFO@JWALKERINTERIORS.COM

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 69

Park Life | Business

Beautiful Blinds for your home...

50 % OFF*

N

EN O

AS SE

TV

FK postcodes covered by Stirling Branch 01786 472335 stirling@apollo-blinds.co.uk G postcodes covered by Clydebank Branch 0141 941 1852 clydebank@apollo-blinds.co.uk

www.apollo-blinds.co.uk/

*available on selected fabrics, while stocks last.

FREE HOME VISIT • FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

A new look for your old kitchen this Spring EST.

Before

1999

• From doors to complete kitchens • Large choice of doors, worktops & accessories • Quality bespoke kitchen makeovers ®

CALL IAN OR LAURA FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

0141 942 0977 dreamdoors.co.uk

70 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Visit our showroom: 161 Milngavie Rd, Bearsden, G61 3DYY

Park Life | Business

John Coubrough & SON FUNERAL DIRECTORS Est. 1961

Grant Coubrough, with over 35 years of experience can be depended upon to provide a professional, caring and dignified service in your time of loss. All funeral packages, including floral tributes, catering needs and memorial stones can be taken care of.

Golden Charter Funeral Plans are also available

“TULMORE”, 27 Castlehill Loan, Kippen FK8 3DZ. TEL: 01786 870737 • 07702 490285

imon Head Joinery Services

All Trades Contractor Domestic & Commercial Maintenance & Repair • • • •

Extensions New Builds Glazing Bathroom renovations

• • • •

Loft conversions Kitchens supplied and fitted All types of insurance work Window board-up service

No job too big or small Free Estimates Tel: 01764 682 710 | Mob: 07764 255163 Glendevon Cottage, Stirling Street, Blackford, PH4 1QA simonheadjoineryservices@hotmail.co.uk

homeworx

s

• 24 Hour Service

property maintenance and repairs

painting and decorating (interior and exterior) ceramic tiling hardwood and laminate floor fitting joinery plastering all work considered

for a free quote, call 01360 550542 or 07870 329349 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 71

With ANITA MANN

ANTIQUES And her team of specialists fro VALUATION Great Western Auct DAY With

ANITA MANNING and her team of specialists from Great Western Auctions

A

nita Manning and her team of specialists from Great Western Auctions, are coming to Killearn Kirk on Friday, 27th April from 10-2pm to give valuations of items brought by the public.

The entry fee is £10 and up to three items can be brought by each person. Detailed photographs of larger items can also be brought for valuation. Tea and coffee will be available and it should be an interesting, informative and perhaps profitable event. So look out your treasures, look out for posters in your local area nearer the time and come along - it could be to your advantage!

For more details contact Anne (550605 ) Helen (550831), Lynne (440507) Doreen (550834) or Katie (449358)

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Friday 27th April 2018 10am-2pm Killearn Kirk

Friday 27th April 2018 In aid of Killearn Kirk

10am—2pm Entry £10

(Charity Number SC012140)

Including valuation of up to 3 items and tea/coffee Detailed Photographs of large items permitted

Killearn Kirk

NING

Park Life | Business

om

tions

8

k

Are you starting, growing or just want to improve your business?

Approachable, practical and pro-active accounting, tax and business service.

Contact Stuart McDonagh FCA for a free initial consultation

SYKAM & Co, Chartered Accountants, Balfron T: 07791 718861 E: enquiries@sykamandco.co.uk W: www.sykamandco.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Archibald Billett

F U N E R A L D I R E C T O R S Expertise & experience to ensure you give your loved one the perfect send off.

Archibald Billett Funeral Directors provide both traditional burial and cremation packages to suit all.

We can arrange memorials and Floral Tributes on request. Pre paid funeral plans through Golden Charter are available to give your family peace of mind.

Independent Funeral Director

Established Since 1955

Tel: 07718 759908 | Tel: 01877 382829 | Gualann, Gartmore, Stirling FK8 3RP

• New builds • Renovations Extensions • • Free estimate • Kitchens, Bathrooms • Property Maintenance Design & Installation • Project Management • General joinery Services • Insurance work

All Trades Provides

Kevin Morgan - Tel 07825 006101 | www.kmjoiners.co.uk

74 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Oil Boiler Maintenance BOILERS SERVICED / MAINTAINED WEST CENTRAL SCOTLAND AGA Servicing

Established 10yrs Michael O’Connell T: 01360 660371 M: 07732 205121 E: moose007oconnell@btinternet.com

Buchlyvie Electrical

All Electrical Work Undertaken Electric Radiators Supplied and Fitted

Davie Haggerty Specialising in thermal dynamic electric radiators replacements for old storage heaters.

Email: buchlyvieelectrical@aol.com

ALAN ROBINSON

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS (established 27 years)

Fully Insured T: 07826 628320

STEWART HOLLINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Established Since 1983

tes and advice Call for estima

t: 01877 385231 m: 07885 841735

Dumbarton: 01389 762324 Drymen: 01360 661161 | Mobile: 07831 127234

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Index

Accounting & Legal Baxter Accounting 73 JMC Chartered Accountants 73 Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 73 Walker Laird 67

Kids/Activities/Events Aberfoyle Golf Club 49 Balfron Golf Club 51 Buchanan Castle Golf club 56 Castle Rednock Trekking Centre 43 Caledonia Play 52 Drymen Show 44 Go Country 49 Kip McGrath/Cellfield 53/54 Loch Katrine Cruises 3 MacRoberts Centre 45 McLaren Leisure Centre 56 Razzamataz 49 Scock City Concerts 47 Strathyre Music Festival 20 Tolbooth 42 The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre 55 The Scottish Wool Centre 48

Architects & Consultants Malcolm Parry Architects MH Planning Morris Architects MW Consultants

68 68 68 68

Caravans Stirlingshire Caravans

28

Bus, Car & Taxi Hire E Mac Bus Trossachs Cabs

20 77

Electricians Buchlyvie Electrical Stewart Hollington

75 75

Food, Drink & Accomodation Buchanan Castle Estate House for an Art Lover Natures corner Puddingstone Place Sugar Boat Town & Country Coffee Shop The Clachan Inn The Fintry Inn

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

42 4 27 62 59 62 58 65

The Oak Tree Inn The Old Bank

2 59

Laundry Services The Laundry Lady

Funeral Directors

Painters & Decorators

Andrew Anderson & Sons 14 Archibald Billet 74 John Coubrough Funeral Directors 71

Blain Painters Endrick Decorators of Killearn Jack Brand Decorating Strathendrick Decorators

Gift Shops & Galleries Elin Isaksson Glass Wonderland

45 43

Garage Lennoxlea Garage

Adventure dog stirling Paul Saunders Marketing Paul Saunders Photography

31

Plumbers

35 36 35 31 34 35 33 32 28 36 38 37 30 29 34 19 20 19 20 23

Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds Colin Johnson Traditional Upholstery Dream Doors Elspeth Bennie artist blacksmith J Walker Interiors Kitchen & Bathroom Interiors The Flooring Studio Town & Country Designs Coffee Shop

Pet Services

14

Health & Wellbeing Home is Best Liz Ewing Sports Massage Slimming World Remedial & Sports Massage Therapy Tir na nOg

39 39 39 40 43

Photography & Media

Gardening & Outdoors Benview Garden Centre Cameron Garden & Grounds Maintenance Craig Tree Services Cruachan Landscaping Dugie Clark Clachan Mhor Fraser Robb Garden Help Graham Sandals Timber Buidings Harper Garden Services Holly Nairn John Currie Brick and Stonework Macintosh Fencing Paterson Garden Buildings Ltd Scotia Contracts Ltd T D Trees Tradstocks

78

70 69 70 69 69 66 63 66

8 46

Dunrite Plumbing 41 Stewart Reid Plumbing Services 41 Thistle Plumbing Services 40

Property Corum Property Bureau

80 15

Fuels & Stoves Calido Gleaner Oils Ltd Stirling Stove Centre Wood for Fuel

9 10 69 6

Trades & Services Aberfoyle Satellite Company Adrian Pirie Appliance Repairs & Spares Bathroom Transformations Clearline Arials C-Mix Drymen Tiling GS Roofing Ltd Homeworx Killearn Household & Industrial Floor Sanding Services K M Joiners Lorne Howell Joiners & Builders Oil Boiler Maintenance RM Contractors SD Garage Doors Simon Head Joinery Your Heating Ltd

75 39 75 9 13 77 77 41 71 77 8 11 75 40 67 71 13

Wedding Venues House for an Artlover

4

Park Life | Business

Before

DRYMEN TILING Professional Tiling Services

All Aspects of Wall & Floor Tiling Ceramic, Porcelain & All Natural Stone Repairs & Regrouting

After

Trossachs Cabs Quality Private Hire Services Airport Transfers All Western Villages Covered 6, 9 and 16 Seater Vehicles Available Mini Bus Hire Stuart Hall

Tel: 07956 914988

Main Street, Aberfoyle FK8 3UX E: trossachscabs@aol.com

Tel: 07810 194226

drymentiling@btinternet.com www.facebook.com/drymentiling

Trossachs-Cabs

FRESH LOCAL CONCRETE SUPPLIED 07771 562 661 www.cmix.co.uk

• Only pay for what you use

• No Waste

• Deliveries from 1m3

• No Part load charges

• Barrow Service

• No waiting charges

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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20% O CURTA FF LAUND IN ERING Prese nt ad vert t dis o count receiv .P e T&Cs ark Life apply

Call Karen on

T: 01389 721095 Commercial

Contract Hire for: Bed, Bath & Table Linen Laundering Linen for: Hotels • B&B’s Restaurants • Health Clubs • Hairdressers

Domestic Laundry & Dry Cleaning • Service Wash Ironing • Pet Beds

EQUINE LAUNDRY SERVICE We use a trustworthy third party with over thirty years experience. The equine laundry uses only NIKWAX washing and proofing products for top quality results.

Units 8 & 9, North St Ind Est, North Street, Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire G83 0EA 78 |

www.thelaundrylady.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Farmers Markets Buying local, regional produce at the market means lower food miles and benefits the local economy in terms of employment and growth.

FRANCE FARM FRIDAYS Every Friday; 9am-5pm Beside Millennium Hall, Gartocharn family run market, selection of local produce including fruit & veg, cooked meats, cheese, eggs, butcher meats.

MILNGAVIE FARMERS MARKET 1st Wednesday of the month; 10am2pm Douglas Street. A weekday market, which is extremely well supported locally. A wide variety of producers from all over Scotland in a splendid central position give this market a tremendous traditional atmosphere. www.scottishfarmersmarkets.co.uk

LOCH LOMOND SHORES FARMERS MARKET Every Sunday of the month; 10am-4pm Balloch Most panoramic location of any Scottish market. A magnificent selection of produce, nearby parking, wonderful shopping in the Lomond Shore Gateway Centre, picnic areas and restaurants.

STIRLING FARMERS MARKET

CALEDONIAN MARTS FARM SHOP, STIRLING

2nd Sat of each month; 10am-4pm Port Street, Stirling.

A very busy and well organised market with a superb cross section of produce from all over Central Scotland. The market is located in the pedestrian area of the city centre (outside M&S) and is within easy access of the main streets, car parks, rail and bus stations. www.stirlingfarmersmarket.co.uk

Tueday, Wednesday,Thursday 8am-2pm. 01786 450922 Fruit. & vegetable, Traditional handmade bread, fresh fish & shellfish and The Mart Cafe. www.caledonia-marts.com

BENVIEW FARMSHOP Incredibly well stocked and loads of Gift ideas.

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10am-5pm.

Farm shop stocking veg, cheeses, preserves, biscuits, cakes.

Tel: 01360 850525 www.benviewgardencentre.co.uk Ward Toll, Balfron Station G63 0QZ.

KILLEARN COUNTRY MARKET Killearn Village Hall First Saturday of the month 10am-1.30pm www.kcfc.co.uk

GLASGOW FARMERS MARKET 2nd and 4th Sat in the month 10am-2pm Mansfield Park, Hyndland Street, Dumbarton This market usually has around 40 stalls selling farm produce, locally grown vegetables, Scottish beef, lamb, venison and wild boar. A range of speciality producers have chutneys, jams, locally produced honeys and breads on offer as well as a good selection of Scottish cheeses. Fresh salmon and trout are usually available. Shellfish and other seafood are on sale when in season www.scottishfarmersmarkets.co.uk 0141 287 2500

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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When we say we’re ‘the best sellers’ it isn’t just a slogan.

There’s more than one estate agent. But there can only be one No.1 estate agent for sales agreed and it’s us, no ifs or buts. Ask Corum to sell your house and you’ll be talking face-to-face with a property expert who knows the local market inside out.

Corum. There’s nobody better at selling houses.

Thinking of selling your house, speak to the experts today.

Corum Bearsden

the best sellers 0141 942 5888

80 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Visit our website

corumproperty.co.uk