Park Life Magazine October 2017

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

FREE Oct / Nov 2017

PARK LIFE

Local guide to Halloween and Guy Fawkes nights

LOOK AHEAD Book your Christmas & New Year events

ENTERTAINMENT! The House Folk Scottish Music Festival

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

Come and visit Balmaha and explore the amazing scenery that’s right on our doorstep. Climb Conic Hill, see the Tom Weir statue, visit Inchcialloch Island or just walk around the bay in Balmaha.

Then enjoy a good meal in the Oak Tree, with coffee and ice cream in St Mocha a great day out!

Loyalty Discount Card

Loyalty Cards

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

If you regularly visit The Oak Tree and St Mocha make sure you pick up one of our loyalty card entry forms.

Collect a stamp each time you visit then once you have six you’ll get a 10% off card for future visits.

St Mocha St Mocha Coffee Shop & Ice Cream Parlour, next to The Oak Tree Inn, serves artisan roasted speciality coffee, teas, home baking a lunch menu and homemade authentic Loch Lomond Ice Cream. St Mocha is also open in the summer on Luss Pier.

Locally sourced ingredients Pick up a copy of the Oak Tree news when you’re next in and see how many of the ingredients in our dishes are sourced locally, with many produced on site too. As well as our popular menu check out the daily specials boards in our bar and restaurant.

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

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

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@oaktreebalmaha

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TheOakTreeInn

OakTreeInn

Park Life | Business

Home of the Steamship Sir Walter Scott

Steamship Sir Walter Scott D The is fully wheelchair friendly

By pass the ticke t queue and book onlin e ww w.loch katr ine.com

• Classic steamship cruises on Sir Walter Scott • Legends of the Loch cruise on the Lady of the Lake • Family friendly special events throughout the year • Walking & cycling on the shores of Loch Katrine • Brenachoile Café • Katrine Gifts - Souvenirs & Crafts • Katrinewheelz - Cycle hire • Borg Grech Photography • Pier Café - Stronachlachar

Fireworks Cruise 4th November

STAY & SAIL BREAKS AVAILABLE

Live music from Shaky and complimentary burgers and hotdogs from our BBQ followed by fireworks set against the background of the Trossachs National Park.

Sail with Santa (weekends) 9th - 17th December A day to remember with a gift for every child and mulled wine for adults

New Year Cruise 1st & 2nd January 2018 Ceilidh band and a complimentary wee dram to toast the New Year!

Loch Katrine A821

Callander

A821

A84

Aberfoyle A81

Stay in one of our Wee Eco Lodges from £40.00 * per night

Leave the hustle and bustle behind this autumn and enjoy a short break in one of our lochside eco lodges. The lodges are fully insulated, with a double bed and either two bunk beds or a bed settee, together with a compact kitchen, television and some have en-suite facilities.

Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, by Callander, Stirling FK17 8HZ T: 01877 376315/6 • E: enquiries@lochkatrine.com www.lochkatrine.com

To Glasgow To Stirling, M9 and Edinburgh

* Date restrictions apply.

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

WINDOW CLEANING GUTTER O20FF% CLEARING

C ‫פ‬ʦ & s d ...

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OFF

PRESSURE15% WASHING OFF

Cleaning

0800 328 0701

PHONE NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE

Commercial & Domestic Cleaners

spkcleaning.co.uk

01436 679994 www.nightanddaycleaning.co.uk

Visit our showroom for friendly welcome and expert advice on choosing the perfect stove for you.

*

10% OFFRE

TOadvert INwS is ith th sale des *Exclu ms. ite

CHAR DEALE NWOOD R& appro HETAS v insta ed ller

FIREWOOD PRODUCTS • STOVES SUPPLY & INSTALL • GARDEN & OUTDOOR Deciding on the perfect stove for you couldn’t be easier.

As keen stove users ourselves we have gained a breadth of experience which we can us to help you choose the perfect wood burning or multifuel stove for your home,

office or business. Quality and service are very important for us here at Calido, between our showroom team and our HETAS approved installation team will make sure you have a stove you will look at more than your TV!

Unit 3a Bandeath Industrial Estate, Throsk FK7 7NP | Tel: 01786 357057 | www.calidologs.com | sales@calidologs.com

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Welcome to our October/November edition. Yes, autumn is here, the colours are glorious and winter will soon be here...my favourite time of year!

We see it earlier and earlier each year...Christmas in October. Heck, the past few years we’ve seen Christmas goodies and decorations sitting alongside spooky Halloween treats. This edition of Park Life is no different! Anything needing to be done to your home before the festive family gatherings? Look at our Trades and Services throughout the magazine to see what is available and can be achieved locally without hitting the busy streets of Stirling and Glasgow.

Our guide to local events for Halloween and Guy Fawkes should keep the entire family busy without going too far afield. Once the School October holiday is over it will be time to take to the pages of Park Life for ideas, help and suggestions to ensure a calm, happy Festive Season.

Until then, enjoy Autumn in it’s glory and wrap up warm.

Katrina, Heather & Lisa Crescent Cabs 07710 800067

24hr Reliable Taxi service

2017

ST

EERFE

B

Halloween & Guys Fawkes Guide P16/17

ARTNES

S

In aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland and local Charities

G

www.gartnessbeerfestival.co.uk FOOD from Hewitt Gartness & Aker.

Beer MUSIC Festival from Oldplay

P29 & 80

Tickets: £12.50 from www.eventbrite.co.uk

murraygwatt@yahoo.co.uk Contentse: • Events t: 07799 778086

Useful Local Numbers ������������������������������������������������������������ 10 Fireworks & Halloween ������������������������������������������������������ 16-17 Loch Katrine 117 Years of Business ���������������������������������������� 20 Buchanan Castle Golf Club ��������������������������������������������� 22-23 Local Cinema ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 24 Festive Fun ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 26 Local Events ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 28-29 Loch Lomond Shores ������������������������������������������������������������� 31 Fit for Life Blog, Liz Ewing �������������������������������������������������������� 37 Local Fitness Classes ������������������������������������������������������������� 38 Kids Groups & Clubs ��������������������������������������������������������� 40-41 Mugdock Country Park Events ����������������������������������������������� 42 Food & Drink Section �������������������������������������������������������� 43-50 Spotlight on Scotia Spice ������������������������������������������������������ 48 Gardening & Outdoors ���������������������������������������������������� 52-57 Gardening Tips ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 56 Homes & Interiors with Catherine Crawford ��������������������������� 60 Scotlands first Hen Hotel ���������������������������������������������������������70 Fire & Rescue Recruitment �����������������������������������������������������82 Index ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������84 A5 Gartness beer '17.indd 1

13/09/2017 10:28

Park Life Competitions

WIN!

with Country Living Christmas Fair �������������������������������������������������� 14 Park Life 30 Crafts for Christmas Ticket Offer ���������������������������������������������� Magazine Macroberts ����������������������������������������������������������������������������� 37 To enter our competitions visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life Magazine Christmas & New Year 2017/18

Chriastnmd as New Yea8 r 2017-1

er for and advertis The Trossachs on guide & h Lomond Your what’s shire, Loc West Stirling packed full 88 pages rmation of local info you to prepare derful for a won on! seas ive Fest Locally...

What’s On istmas Pantos, Chr ts Out, Nigh Markets, et don’t forg Dining & tions! the Competi Local Park Life Christmas Shopping Gifts, Guide for & Trees Wreaths

FREE

20,000

d copies printe & delivered by Royal Mail

• Killearn • Drymen • Croftamie Thornhill Gargunnock • Blanefield ore • Kippen • Strathblane h • Gartm • Arnprior her covering: chard • Balloc • Buchlyvie unity toget oyle • Kinlo charn • Fintry local comm an • Garto O Turk • Aberf Bringing your hog • Brig Rowardenn • Kilma aha • Balfron • Balm Menteith • Callander of Ruskie • Port

Our next edition covers Christmas and New Year, copy deadline is 3rd November.

88 pages packed full of local info to prepare for a wonderful festive season!

What’s on locally | Park Life local shopping guide for christmas gifts.

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

PAUL SA UNDERS MARKETING

Marketing, Video & phy Photogra vents | Websites | E ia d e M l ia c o S g | Strategy Aerial Filmin Campaigns Design | PR |

t for r o p p u s g in t Marke ll sizes a f o s e s s e in bus 6

1029 01360 66d .uk o .c s r e n u a pauls |

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Park Life | Business

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

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

TRANSFORMATIONS

• Equipment Supplied at Trade Prices • Exclusively Managed Installations • Respected, Dedicated & Professional Service • Quality Installation • References Available on Request • All Work Guaranteed

We are Recruiting!

• Free Survey & Estimate

Join the Fraser C Robb team.

We have an exciting new opportunity in our Sales/Parts department.

• You’ll be working both on-line and face to face with our customers.

• No experience necessary, full training provided with competitive salary.

• Based in Drymen you will learn all aspects of the business.

• Full training towards SVQ Level 3/4.

To apply contact - lorna@frasercrobb.co.uk

To arrange a FREE ESTIMATE please contact Stephen Melvin

01360 771952 | 07887 711 165

E: bathroomtransformations@btconnect.com www.bathroomtransformations.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

• 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

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

• 24 Hour Service

“TULMORE”, 27 Castlehill Loan, Kippen FK8 3DZ. TEL: 01786 870737 • 07702 490285 8

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Experts in Kitchen Makeovers Why replace perfectly good cupboards when you can transform your existing kitchen into your dream kitchen?

SAVE MONEY

| SAVE TIME & HASSLE | SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT

DOORS:

WORKTOPS:

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Made to Measure

Laminate, Wood, Quartz

Handles, Sinks, Taps

Change as much or as little as you like!

Call Malcolm for a FREE, no obligation quote on 01786 625 627 www.DreamKitchenMakeover.co.uk

www.davidthompsondesigns.co.uk Tel: 01786 841391

Mob: 07792 639029 Email: enquiries@davidthompsondesigns.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Park Life Useful Numbers

Police Non-Emergency 101 Fintry 01360 860204 Gartmore 01877 382343 Police Emergency 999 or 112 Gargunnock 01786 860291 Scottish Power 0800 0270072 Killearn 01360 550430 Stirling Council 08452 777000 Kippen 01786 870373 Water Help Line 0800 0778 778 Mclaren High 01877 330156 Gas Emergencies 0800 111 999 The Samaritans 24hr 08457 90 90 90 Port of Menteith 01877 385225 Strathblane 01360 770608 Libraries Thornhill 01786 850207 Strathblane 01360 770737 Balfron Tip opening times Drymen 01360 660751 Mon-Fri 5pm-8pm Sat 10-2pm Balfron 01360 440407 Callander 01877 331544 Health Centres Balloch 01389 608989 Drymen 01360 660203 Kippen 01360 850237 Schools covered by Park Life Mag Balfron 01360 440515 Aberfoyle 01877 382278 Aberfoyle 01877382421 Balfron High 01360 440469 Callander 01877 331000 Balfron 01360 440027 Killearn 01360 550339 Buchanan 01360 870215 Buchlyvie 01360 850311 Dentist Callander 01877 331576 Drymen 01360 661097 Drymen 01360 660410 NHS 24 Helpline 111

Trossachs Cab Company Quality Private Hire Services Airport Transfers All Western Villages Covered 6, 9 and 16 Seater Vehicles Available Mini Bus Hire Stuart Hall & Brian Boyle

Tel: 07765 006200

Main Street, Aberfoyle FK8 3UX E: bookmybrian@yahoo.com

https://m.facebook.com/trossachscabscompany

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

CONSERVATORY ROOF CONVERSIONS • 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 & 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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Park Life | Business

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www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

AAbeautiful beautifulwinter wintervenue venue for foryour yourspecial specialoccasion. occasion.

Winter Winterwedding weddingpackage package

£2,950 £2,950

40 40Day DayGuests Guests 60 60Evening EveningGuests Guests

Your Yourceremony ceremonyand andmeal mealwill willtake takeplace placeininthe the stunning stunningsurrounds surroundsofofthe theMackintosh MackintoshSuite, Suite, with withyour yourevening eveningreception receptiontotofollow followininthe the Art ArtLovers LoversCafé CaféBar. Bar. • Venue • Venuehire hire

• Full • Fulltable tablelinen linen

• Glass • GlassofofHouse House sparkling sparkling for forarrival arrival • Master • Master ofof ceremonies ceremonies • Half • Halfbottle bottleofofHouse House • Cake • Cakestand standand and wine winefor formeal meal cake cakeknife knife • Ceremony • Ceremonycharge charge

• Table • Tableplan, plan,place place cards, cards,menu menuand and table tablenames names

• Glass • GlassofofHouse Housewine wine for fortoast toast

• Choice • Choiceofoftwo two centre centrepieces pieces

• Full • Fullevening eveningbuffet buffet for for60 60guest guest

• 3-course • 3-coursemenu menu

• Dance • Dancefloor floor Add Addadditional additionalday dayguests guestsatat£50pp. £50pp.

New Newbookings bookingsonly. only.

Please Pleaseget getinintouch touchtotofind findout out more moreabout aboutdates datesand andavailability. availability.

T:T: 0141 0141 353 353 4770 4770 E:E: WEDDINGS@HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK WEDDINGS@HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK W: W: WWW.HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK WWW.HOUSEFORANARTLOVER.CO.UK www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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WINf!e with

Li Park zine a Mag

WIN TICKETS! to the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair 8 Pairs of Tickets to Be Won

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

The Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair is back at SECC, Glasgow from 23- 26 November 2017. This annual celebration of all things festive is a must for anyone who enjoys a great day’s shopping.

We have 8 pairs of tickets for this fabulously festive show to be won. If you don’t win you can purchase tickets saving 10% on the Advance Ticket price by visiting www.countrylivingfair.com and enter the code LIVING10 Over 300 of the UK’s finest craftsmen and women will gather to offer unique gifts, decorations, crafts, food and inspired interior ideas, to help bring that magical Christmas sparkle to every home. There’s also three informative theatres where experts will offer invaluable advice and entertaining demonstrations.

• The Country Living Kitchen will delight and inspire as top Scottish chefs demonstrate preparing tempting seasonal dishes, using delicious, fresh ingredients.

• The Country Living Corner where experts will offer advice on how to make the most of your home over the festive period, with a series of talks and demonstrations • Over in The Country Living Crafting Workshops there will be a varied daily hands-on programme where visitors will have the chance to create something special to take home • The Drunken Duck Champagne Bar - The perfect day out wouldn’t be complete without a relaxing glass of fizz.

For further information or to book tickets call 0844 581 1385 or visit www.countrylivingfair.com/ticket-prices

For all your maintenance needs...

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

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www.rmcontractors.pro

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Sandstone Repair & Restoration Damaged, cracked, split, spalling and eroded sandstone & limestone masonry. Walls, window ems, lintels, Jambs, cornice, copings and plinths. We only use Uthomex to re- face the sandstone and all pointing is only carried out with a lime mix. Stone windowsills add Old-World charm to many buildings. If sills are sandstone, the stone tends to deteriorate with age, exposure to rain, snow and freeze-and- thaw cycles.

EPDM Roofing System EPDM is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) widely used in low-slope buildings in the United States and worldwide. Its two primary ingredients, ethylene and propylene, are derived from oil and natural gas. EPDM is available in both black and white, and is sold a broad variety of widths, ranging from 7.S feet to fifty feet, and in two thicknesses, 45 and 60 mils. EPDM can be installed either fullv adhered. mech1nicallv attached or ballasted, with the seams of the roofing system sealed with liquid adhesives or specially formulated tape.

Park Life | Business

F O R T H E P E R F E C T FA M I LY H O M E W I T H I N C E N T I V E S T O MAT C H JUST ASK CALA The Elliot showhome at Endrick Meadows

Endrick Meadows Roman Road Balfron, G63 0QH

UP TO 100% PART EXCHANGE* AVAILABLE OR ASK ABOUT HELP TO BUY†

01360 504 377

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Luxurious 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes Prices from £199,000 to £440,000

C A L A . C O. U K

PL01OCT *CALA will obtain 2 independent valuations based on achieving a sale in a 4-6 week period, part exchange considered subject to CALA’s purchasing criteria, terms and conditions. Up to 100% part exchange and other incentives available on selected plots, subject to terms and conditions and not in conjunction with each other or any other offer. Visit cala.co.uk/terms for full terms and conditions and purchasing criteria. †YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. CALA Management Ltd. Registered office: Adam House, 5 Mid New Cultins, Edinburgh EH11 4DU. Security over your home is required. Help to Buy cannot be used in conjunction with part exchange. Availability of other incentives/offers subject to lenders criteria and CALA’s discretion. Your mortgage lender’s deposit requirements may vary, but you should usually expect to contribute a deposit of at least 5% of the purchase price. Available on selected properties, and subject to the Government’s specific terms, conditions and qualifying criteria. CHECK THAT THIS MORTGAGE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT SEEK INDEPENDENT ADVICE. 0% APR typical.

Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Calls may be recorded for training purposes.

The image shown is taken from The Elliot showhome at Endrick Meadows and features fixtures, décor, flooring and soft furnishings which are not fitted as standard in a CALA home. These are used to suggest possible finishes you could adopt in your own home and would be an additional cost. Prices are accurate atwww.parklifescotland.co.uk time of going to print.

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Fireworks Night...

Loch Katrine Fireworks Cruise 4th Nov

Live music from Shaky, Complimentary burgers and hotdogs from our BBQ followed by fireworks set against the background of The Trossachs National Park.

The Glebe Killearn Bonfire & Fireworks Display Sat 4th Nov 7.30pm Gates Open at 7pm

Bridge of Allan Fireworks

Sunday 5th November BACK BRINGING YOU THE BEST SHOW IN TOWN Every year Stirling and Bridge of Allan Round Table welcome over 8000 people to Stirling’s only fireworks spectacular. Having raised over £75,000 in the last 10 years our aim is to ensure our community has a safe bonfire night with entertainment that everyone will enjoy. Fireworks Spectacular is coming back to town in 2017.

Your local Round Table is delighted to announce that we are returning to our traditional slot of the Sunday 5th November for 2017!

Stay tuned as we approach November for exciting announcements of live music acts, and other news bringing all the family together on Bonfire night.

For the latest up-to-date information, follow us on our facebook and twitter feeds! www.stirlingboaroundtable.co.uk 16 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

...& Halloween Frights!

CHAS Devil Dash

Sat 28 Oct at 10:30am. Moss O’Balloch Under 5’s go free!

The CHAS Devil Dash is back for a thrilling third year and this time around, it has even more Hallowe’en themed fun and frolics! Run or walk around one of the two distances: the 6.66km Devil Dash or the 3.33km Devil Dawdle.

See pg 42

Arnprior Pumpkins Sat 14th - Sun 22nd Sat 28th & Sun 29th 10-4pm There is no entrance fee. Arnprior Farm, FK8 3HA Disabled visitors and those with mobility issues are most welcome to our pumpkin patch. Please contact us in advance so we can try and accommodate your needs.

Our pumpkin patch is a fun filled field of pre cut pumpkins, as well as some still growing on the vines, as well as a short story of their life! We also have a few traditional pumpkin patch games and photo opportunities in the field.

Food & Drink. Skinners of Kippen Martin Luti Pizza oven. Fallen Tree Coffee Truck

Mugdock Country Park www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk Junior Halloween Fun Sat 28th & Sun 29th Oct 10-11.15am, 12.30-1.45pm or 2.30-3.45pm Following on from the success of last year’s event, Fizzgig are back with their mix of outdoor and indoor Halloween fun! Join us for a bit of storytelling, a spooky ‘dook’ for apples, throw some shapes to scary monster music, and for the very brave, a hunt in the woods for old Fossilnose the Witch! Suitable for Ages 3-7 years. £5 for everyone (limited places) Booking essential 0141 956 6100.

Fright Nights at Mugdock Fri 27th Oct to Tues 31st October (various times) BOO!..Did you get a fright?...Did you jump out of your skin?....NO?.....Mmmm! OK, let’s see how you cope on a Fizzgig Fright Night. They’re back again, and this time you’ve made it PERSONAL! A short walk in the dark woods might just feel like a lifetime!

Loch Lomond Shores 28,29,30,31 October Halloween at Loch Lomond Shores. Spooky goings on for kids and adults at Loch Lomond Shores, with Halloween themed activities, prizes for the best dressing-up costumes and the popular Walking Theatre Company. See website for more details: www.lochlomondshores.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Activities/Kids/What’s On

visit us razzamataz.co.uk

Segway Trekking is one of our new activities...

These unique machines are fascinating and fun to operate.

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 hour)girls £32age (2 hours) We are the ideal place for£18 boys(1and 4-18 Reduction to forlearn families 4 and with an interest in performing, PopofSinging, more.

Pony Rides £10 Street Dance, Musical Theatre & Drama! (1/2 hour sessions).

NOW ENROLLING! Other activities include For further details contact: Mark Long orienteering, Shetland E: balfron@razzamataz.co.uk

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

driving and Nordic walking.

Tel: 0141 576 4569 / 07715 301841

Visit our Facebook page for further information

BOOK TODAY!

Tel: 01877 385276 | 07801 699497

School of Dance Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Modern Stage

Under 3’s

Taught to children from 2½ years

FREE!

Strathblane classes Edmonstone Hall Blanefield.

Killearn classes Killearn Village Hall

Lynda Turner School of Dance

Tel: 01360 770390 E: lyndaturnerdancing@hotmail.com 18 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

DANCE

Park Life | Activities/Kids/What’s On

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

Full Size Games Hall 20m swimming Pool 30ft Climbing Wall Sauna and Steam room Fitness Classes Modern Fitness Suite www.mclarenleisure.co.uk Mollands Road, Callander FK17 8JP | Tel: 01877 330000

MAGAZINE

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

Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page, with over 3000 likes now and daily updates on local news and events. Send us your events on Facebook and we can help spread the word for you to make your day even busier!

Outdoor adventure activities for all ages and abilities Fri 24 Nov to Sun 31 Dec, Times Vary • Children Groups Tickets from £9

Corporate Groups Group and Fun Days

Take advantage of our equipment hire experience, we hire all equipment including Canoe and Bike Hire!

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

Fri 24 Sun31 31Dec. Dec, Wed 22Nov Novto - Sun Timesvary Vary Times Ticketsfrom from£9£9 Tickets

For age 5 & under

Tue 28 Nov to Sun 24 Dec, times vary Tickets: £9.50 / £32 Wee Group Saver

Book Tickets:

01786 466 666 www.macrobertartscentre.org

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 19

Park Life takes a look at a local business that has been running for

117 years!

At Loch Katrine a very neat and comfortable little steamer will be found in readiness to start on its progress up the loch, and this part of the journey occupies one hour. On reaching the west end of Stronachlacher (or Coalbarns, as it is sometimes called) there is a small pier with an annoying charge of a few pence each; but this is now the only remnant of black mail levied on tourists, which probably would not be grudged were it not for the impediment its payment throws in the way of securing a good outside seat on the coaches that are here again required to convey passengers to Inversnaid on Loch Lomond.

When Adam and Charles Black published their famous “Guide to The Trossachs” in Edinburgh some 150 years ago - back in 1864, they were no doubt hoping that at some point the hospitality offered to visitors arriving in the area would be free of irritations such as the fee charged for using the pier on arrival at Stronachlachar!

After all, they had already warned travellers that the journey from Callander to Loch Katrine would take one and a half hours, due to the “badness of the road”. Clearly 20 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Stay Sail E & co Camp

those intrepid tourists who were the first to discover the charms of the area were fairly determined, and weren’t discouraged by such hazards!

Thankfully much has changed since the Victorian period, but there is one legacy remaining from the era which saw The Trossachs firmly placed on the tourist map, and it is one with an enduring popularity – the classic journey on the veteran steamship Sir Walter Scott. 117 years since it entered service in 1899, the Sir Walter Scott maintains the special atmosphere of a Victorian pleasure steamer, but now combined with totally up-to-date facilities and services, including comfortable lounges with panoramic views which allow passengers to relax and admire the landscapes of the country’s first national park.

The ship (with its steam engine now converted to operate with cleaner oil rather than coal) continues to operate a daily return sailing to Stronachlachar (departing from Trossachs Pier at 10:30am), plus shorter 1-hour sightseeing cruises along with the modern cruiser ‘Lady of the Lake’, which joined its elder sister in 2008 – now with both vessels in operation during peak periods, visitors have a wider range of departure times and cruises to choose from.

As summer holidaymakers return home, and the colours of the magnificent landscapes start to change to rich golds and reds, Loch Katrine becomes a favourite choice for local residents and visitors. This year take advantage of daily Autumn Sailings on the iconic Steamship, and also Autumn and Winter Cruise Programme, Sail including “Fireworks with Cruise” “Sail with Santa!

Santa” and “New Year Celebration Cruises”.

In October there will be a unique “Stay and Sail” package with the opening of the new “Eco Camp” offering family accommodation, in wooden lodges set in a wonderful loch-side location at Trossachs Pier. www.lochkatrinecamping.com

Help with Overcoming Dyslexia memory issues also come within the definition of dyslexia. In essence, the brain processes things differently if you are dyslexic and this can have a major impact on school work, job prospects and overall self esteem.

Many people have heard of dyslexia, however it is often poorly understood. When asked, people say that dyslexia is when people have difficultly seeing and understanding words, when they see letters move whilst reading and/or when they write some letters the wrong way round. In fact, whilst these traits may be common amongst dyslexics, dyslexia covers a much wider range of issues which in practice inhibit fluent reading and learning. Slow processing speed and working

If you suspect your child is dyslexic, the first thing to do should be to consult the child’s school. There are many resources, coupled with good teaching practice, which can help children with processing issues.

Alternative approaches are also available and one of these is Cellfield, a powerful, dynamic programme available in Stirling which has been helping people overcome dyslexia and similar processing difficulties since it was introduced to the UK by former Headteacher, Fiona Macdiarmid. Fiona is well-known in the area as she also runs the popular Kip McGrath tuition centre. “Cellfield is the most exciting development

I have come across in my 30 year career in education” says Fiona, “it enables people to unlock their potential by helping them overcome whatever processing difficulty is obstructing their learning”.

Based on neuroscience and brain plasticity research, Cellfield strengthens the areas of the brain used for language processing to bring about sustainable improvements in reading and language. Clients can gain on average 2 years in their reading age and many Cellfield clients agree it has changed their lives because of the positive impact it has on their overall self esteem.

Contact Cellfield on 01786 447527.

A unique & effective approach to overcoming Dyslexia

Call Cellfield in STIRLING

01786 447 527 info@cellfield.co.uk

www.cellfield.co.uk

Cellfield changes lives...

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 21

Park Life

visits Buchanan Castle Golf Club In February this year Buchanan Castle Golf Club became a member managed club when the members entered into a long term lease of the James Braid designed course and greenkeeping facilities with Montrose Estates. Tommy Gemmill the chairman of the new member owned company which entered the lease, spoke to Park Life.

‘This is the start of a new chapter for Buchanan Castle Golf Club where members interests will be paramount in the future development and investment we make in the course and related facilities and where any surplus we make will be ploughed back to enhance the golfing experience for members and visitors alike.’

The changed circumstances were overwhelmingly supported by existing members many of which contributed to a new fund to be used to support the ongoing development of the new club. Andy Steele the Club captain said ‘The new arrangements will allow us to build and develop the fantastic heritage we have at Buchanan Castle derived largely from the involvement of the Duke of Montrose and his father who engaged James Braid to design the course on the Montrose Estate parkland. The parkland and its mature trees together with the river Endrick and Connic hill make for a stunning backdrop to the slice of golfing paradise that is Buchanan Castle’.

The new management team has plans to develop the golfing facilities and to market the course better. In the past the quality of the course and its environs was enough to attract both members and visitors alike but now there is more competition across a wide variety of activities.

Buchanan Castle Golf Club has great facilities with the James Braid course as the centrepiece backed up by an academy course, which is ideal for beginners, a driving 22 | and www.parklifescotland.co.uk range a practice ground. There is also a pro shop which

offers lessons and club hire so we can support serious golfers, beginners (men and women) junior golfers and seniors as our course offers a serious golfing challenge but is built on relatively flat parkland. We also enjoy our historic but recently refurbished club house and we are promoting all aspects of our golfing experience through a number of channels including social media where we have a new website and Facebook page.

Our members recognise what a special place Buchanan Castle is and our current membership is keen to pass on this experience to a new generation of members. We aim to welcome 300 new members over the next 3 years and YTD we have 80 new members to date. New members are welcome across all categories and our new membership offer of £500 with no joining fee includes one junior free and lower rates for young adults represents a great opportunity to become part of our club so if you are interested please get in touch and talk to us about membership. As you can see you can join in 2017 for Season 2018. So please talk to us about the packages we have available , we have an offer to suit all circumstances.

We will also be promoting our offer to the corporate market and to visitors to the National Park by advertising , new signage and stay and play packages so you are likely to see our promotional material in a variety of local settings all geared to spreading our message to entice all golfers to try our course and to enjoy the unique Buchanan golfing experience.

So why not join us and take some time out with your friends and family to relax and play a better game at Buchanan Castle in 2018 and get some great Autumn golf for free.

Park Life | Business

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Cinema Listings

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

Mugdock Cinema Children’s Cinema: Hotel Transylvania 2 Sun 29th Oct 11am Childrens Cinema: How To Train Your Dragon Sun 26th Nov 11am The Winslow Boy Mon 2nd Oct Trumbo Mon 23rd Oct Cool Runnings Mon 6th Nov Papillon Mon 20th Nov White Christmas Mon 27th Nov Booking essential 0141 956 6100 All Tickets £3 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk

Gartmore Community Cinema The Third Man Fri 6th Oct - 8pm Mike Nolan Silent film night Sat 11th Nov - 8pm Live accompaniment to Harold Lloyd’s “Safety First” (U) www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk

Callander Film Society All films start 7.30pm Arrival Sat 7th Oct Captain Fantastic Sat 21st Oct Julieta Sat 4th Nov Lion Sat 14th Nov The Clanranald Theatre, St Kessogs, Ancaster Square, Callander, Stirlingshire, FK17 8ED. www.bfi.org

Strathendrick Film Society Hidden Figures Fri 20th Oct Room Fri 17th Nov All films start 7.30pm www.strathfilmsoc.org.uk Entry for non members £5 24 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

Friday 13th - Sunday 22nd October Open 10am -5pm daily

A selling exhibition featuring contemporary & traditional rugs, carpets & kilims; hand-crafted wood furniture; pottery from Vietnam & Turkey; colourful hand stitched pouffees & upholstered seating; textiles including throws, bedspreads, cushions, slippers & scarves; lanterns, jewellery, & decoration unique Christmas gifts & decorations.

Hot drinks, scones and soup available with donations going to Music in Hospitals.

Chasing the Donkey: rushing round Turkey in search of rugs An amusing account of the creation of The Nomads Tent by Rufus Reade.

17th October, 6.30pm. Tickets ÂŁ10 in aid of the Makhad Trust, supporting the Bedouin to maintain their traditional life style. To book please call or email.

T he Myr eton, Kippen Glinns Road Stirling, FK8 3JL 01786 870 347 kir stycuthber t@outlook.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Festive Fun! CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

The Albert Halls Sun 19 Nov: 2pm An afternoon of free family fun kicks off in Stirling at 2pm with the Santa Parade from the Albert Halls down to The Thistles, followed by a radio roadshow at the foot of King Street and the light switch on at 5pm.

Loch Lomond Shores 19th Nov Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Light switch on and fireworks. A full day of events for all the family.

Includes farmers and craft market. www.lochlomondshores.com

FESTIVE EVENTS Loch Lomond Shores 26th Nov Santa Claus is coming to town! Visit Santa in his grotto at Loch Lomond Shores throughout November and December to make sure you’re on his good list this year. www.lochlomondshores.com LochKatrine Sail with Santa (weekends) 9th - 17th Dec A day to remember with a gift for every child and mulled wine for adults.

New Year Cruise 1st & 2nd Jan 2018 Ceilidh band and a complimentary wee dram to toast the New Year!

The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre Christmas Trail and Activities: 1st 22nd December Pick up a festive quiz sheet from the Lodge before wandering along the waterfall trail! Take part in Christmas crafts on your return to the Lodge.

Visit Santa: 9th/10th & 16th/17th December, 12-3pm No need to book, contact the Lodge Cafe on 01877 382977 for more information.

Kippen Christmas Market Sat 25th Nov. 1-4pm Kippen Village Hall See 35 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk 26 pg

PANTOS & PLAYS

HANSEL & GRETEL Mugdock Country Park Theatre Fri 1st - 28 Dec Tickets £11/£7 0141 9566100 fizzgigtheatre@yahoo.com www.fizzgig.org.uk

Smith’s pantos. He has kindly said FADS can hack into it and change everything to suit Fintry. Don’t worry, they will! They will ensure all the local villages and people get a mention and a leg pulled. A team of four choreographers will add that great professional flourish. Lorna Flisch has once again been planning the complex set changes from early August. Costume team and many others are already working to make sure FADS have another Great show.

Tickets will be available in November through FADS website (search for Fintry Drama) and Facebook page links, as well as usual outlets.

THE NUTCRACKER The Albert Halls Thurs 2 Nov Russian National Ballet presents; The Nutcracker – festive family favourite Ballet.

Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky When midnight strikes, the world turns all magical in the wintry glitter of Christmas Eve. Toys come alive, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins. This is the ultimate and beautiful fairy-tale where goodness and beauty triumph.

For more information, please go to www.russian-national-ballet.com

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Fintry 30 Nov - 2nd Dec and 7-9 Dec 8 Performances FADS are back again this Christmas season with the same Panto team that had packed houses and cheering audiences last year. This time round it’s a brand new script from the brilliant Alan McHugh who writes and performs in all Elaine C

CHICK WHITTINGTON Fri 24 Nov - Sun 31 Dec 2017 Macroberts Starring, written & directed by Johnny McKnight this is going to be another not-to-be-missed panto extravaganza!

Grab your sweeties and your loudest voices to boo, hiss and dance a merry jig at this year’s panto extravaganza!

Prices Vary.

Macrobertsartcentre.org FUNBOX PRESENTS SANTA’S FUNTASTIC FACTORY The Albert Halls. Sun 28 Dec Get ready for perfect presents, terrific toys and mechanical mayhem! The Funbox team are back with their brand new show SANTA’S FUNTASTIC FACTORY and are ready to make all your Christmas wishes come true! There’s even chances to help on stage and who knows, you might even see Santa... but only if you’ve been good!

All tickets - £13 Parent & baby under 12 months - £15 Family - £48 (2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 children) Groups of 10+ - £10. each

Park Life | Business

Discover Scotland’s most influential creative figure

Sun 1st - Tue 31st

October 2017

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, Scotland Street School Museum, Kelvin Hall, House for an Art Lover, The Glasgow School of Art, Mackintosh Queen’s Cross, The Lighthouse, The Hill House, The Hunterian and The Glasgow Art Club.

www.glasgowmackintosh.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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YOUR VOTE Park Life Oc

COUNTS!

Park Life urges you to support and vote in these awards as this work is invaluable to our communities.

Nominations now open for your Community Champion Awards 2017.

Halloween/Guy Fawkes pg 16/17 Cinema pg 24 Pantos/Christmas Shows pg 25 Mackintosh Festival pg 27 Craft for Christmas pg 30 Loch Lomond Shores pg 31 Tolbooth pg 34 House Folk Music Festival pg 35 Kids Groups & Clubs pg 40-41 Mugdock Country Park Events pg 42 Country Living Christmas Fair pg 46 The Nomads Tent Road Show

This year volunteers from communities within the National Park will be honoured at the Gathering’s volunteer awards ceremony on Saturday 4 November, at the Millennium Hall, Gartocharn.

13-22 Oct. 10am-5pm. See pg 25

These awards recognise the amazing work being carried out at grassroots level in communities across the Park, acknowledging the work of individuals and groups who have contributed greatly to the development and enhancement of their communities.

Thurs 16th Nov Dinner & Quiz Night at McMillan’s cafe,Ward Toll Nursery.

Voting is now available online!

Nominations are now being sought from community interest groups, Community Development Trusts and Community Councils for this years categories, and we have made voting much easier with the addition of an online submission form which can be found at www.thecommunitypartnership.wufoo.com

This years categories are; • Volunteer of the Year • Rising Champion of the Year • Young Volunteer of the Year • Community Organisation of the Year Of course you can still vote in the normal way and download a copy of the form here at www.thecommunitypartnership.wufoo.com and send to us completed at the address on the bottom of the form. Please note that nominations are to reach this office by Monday 23 October.

All nominees will be invited along with their families to the event, and will receive complimentary lunch.

There will also be an opportunity to see all our entries for this year…watch this space!

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Buchlyvie Garden Society meetings

Buchlyvie Village Hall. Thurs 19th Oct 8pm Talk by Richard Green on “Flowers of the Pyrenees”.

Carbeth Guthrie Estate

Blanefield. 20-21st Oct Weekly Forest School sessions.

Join Operation Play Outdoors for discovery, fun and adventure on the Carbeth Guthrie Estate near Blanefield. Sessions for children of all ages. www.carbethguthrie.estate

Gartness Beer Festival

Sat 28 Oct. Tickets available from event brite. See pg 80

MUSICIANS WANTED!

Helensburgh Orchestral Society is an excellent amateur orchestra, celebrating its 60th anniversary this season.

The orchestra always welcomes new members and currently needs players of a number of instruments, so if you play violin, viola, cello, double bass, French horn or bass trombone, HOS would be delighted to hear from you! Membership is open to any one of any age providing you are around Grade 5 standard or equivalent and commit to attending most rehearsals. Simply get in touch and then turn up at 7.30pm on Mondays at the Victoria Halls, Helensburgh with your instrument and music stand – the orchestra is a very friendly bunch of people!

More information at www.h-o-s.co.uk, by e-mailing Ruth (orchestra secretary) at info@h-o-s.co.uk or on Facebook.

Buchlyvie SWI Programme

Tues 10th Oct The more I see of men, the better I like dogs.

(Madame Rolland) Emma Louise Livingstone, Dogs Trust Competitions. Decorated Halloween cupcake Favourite picture of a dog

ct-Nov Events 29 Spittal Street, Stirling. 3 Nov – 4 Nov Celebrate everything Gin and attend the biggest Gin festival in Stirling. Exhibits and masterclasses available. www.stirlingwhiskyshop.co.uk

Killearn Kirk Events

Wonderland Shopping Event

Killearn Pharmacy Shopping Night

Near Drymen, 5pm - 10pm

Shuttle bus service will run from 4.45pm at Drymen Square

Real Ales, Craft Beers, Lagers, Ciders and a wee Wine bar!

www.gartnessbeerfestival.co.uk In aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland and local Charities

ARTNES 2017

EERFE

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Balfron. 12th Nov noon -8pm Christmas Cocktails, Coffees & festive nibbles while you peruse the opening of winter wonderland.

Saturday 28th October 2017

S

Jumble Sale. 11th Nov Kirk Halls All donations will be gratefully received on the Friday 10th Look out for posters and flyers nearer the time but start de-cluttering now!

BEER FESTIVAL

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Stirling Gin Festival

5TH GARTNESS CHARITY

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Tues 14th Nov A party without cake is just a meeting. (Julia Child) Autumn Outing to Balmaha – Oak Tree Inn for 3pm Sat 25th Nov FEDERATION MEETING. Bridge of Allan

FOOD from Hewitt & Aker.

MUSIC from Oldplay

Tickets: £12.50 from www.eventbrite.co.uk

e: murraygwatt@yahoo.co.uk t: 07799 778086

Christmas Shopping event. Wed 8 Nov 7-9pm

The Hoolie Dhu

Sat 11 Nov. Killearn Village Hall. See pg 35 A5 Gartness beer '17.indd 1

Plantlife

11thNov Bryophytes in the Trossachs – Introduction and Identification – Brig O’Turk – www.plantlife.org.uk/scotland

Gartmore Village Hall Gigs

13/09/2017 10:28

COMING SOON! Park Life Magazine

Christmas & New Year 2017/18

Chris Stout & Catriona McKay. Sat 25th Nov

Woodland Light Experience

Balfron Station, Balfron. 25 Oct -12 Nov. £5 - £14 Woodland Light Experience is an outdoor light show.

Stroll round our woodland roads and be in awe of our light and sound show, with beautiful lighting effects, dazzling projections and the breathtaking finale featuring the natural landscape, light, music and water.

Santa’s Woodland Experience

25 Nov - 24 Dec Balfron Station, Stirlingshire, G63 0LE Take a tractor trailer ride to visit Santa at his cabin in the woods. www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk

Stirling’s Hogmanay

31 Dec - 1 Jan. Viewforth, Stirling, FK8 2ET A New Year’s Eve gala of traditional music and entertainment.

full 88 pages packed of local information to prepare you for a wonderful Festive season! ...

What’s On Locally Pantos, Christmas Out, Markets, Nights Dining & don’t forget ! the Competitions Park Life Local Christmas Shopping Guide for Gifts, Wreaths & Trees

FREE

Christmd as an New Year 2017-18

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

20,000

copies printed & delivered by Royal Mail

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

Our next edition covers Christmas and New Year, copy deadline is 3rd November.

88 pages packed full of local info to prepare for a wonderful festive season! What’s on locally. Park Life local shopping guide for christmas gifts!

BOOK NOW! www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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2 for 1 tickets for Crafts for Christmas & Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts SEC, Glasgow 26-29 Oct 2017

Fancy getting creative this Christmas? Then get along to Crafts for Christmas and Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts when they return to Glasgow’s SEC on October 26-29.

With our ticket offer you can snap up 2 tickets for the price of 1 (£9) for the co-located shows, which will bring together over 150 exhibitors showcasing artisan, handcrafted gifts, supplies and festive inspiration for crafters.

Crafts for Christmas is the perfect place to pick up beautiful, finished craft and gifts for friends, family and the home. It will bring together independent suppliers offering hundreds of exclusive handmade gifts and treats from jewellery to candles, handcrafted toys to handmade decorations, art, candles, ceramics, not forgetting delicious treats and gifts including farmhouse cheeses, specialist wines, handmade cakes and luxury chocolates.

Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts is a mecca for hobbyists from quilting queens to decoupage demons. Visitors can stock up on everything needed to create a craft-filled Christmas.

You’ll have a festive day packed with live music, food and drink, inspirational features, workshops and demonstrations and exhibitors offering with lively onstand demonstrations and craft supplies, including the latest in jewellery and papercraft.

Experts from craft associations, guilds and societies will be demonstrating the latest techniques at a range of exciting Workshops, Demonstrations and Make and Take sessions giving enthusiasts the know-how to create their own festive decorations, beautiful gifts and cards.

2 for 1 ticket offers

To claim 2 tickets for the price of 1 (£9) visit ichfevents. co.uk or call 01425 277988 and use the code GL19 when placing your order. Advance tickets cost £9. Children under go free when accompanied by an adult.

30 | 16 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

What’s on at Loch Lomond Shores Loch Lomond Shores’ farmers and artisan craft markets 8th /15th/ 22nd/29th Oct

SEA LIFE presents The Deep 14th – 29th Oct New exclusive event available for a limited time only! Solve the secrets of the deep and become a Junior Nekton in a brand NEW event at Sea Life!

Navigate to each of the Nekton zones and use the decoders to solve the puzzles, don’t forget to collect your reward! The Sea is Deep and Full of Secrets. Will you solve the mystery?

Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Centre.

Loch-tober Fest

Halloween at Loch Lomond Shores 27th/28th/29th/30th/31st Oct Spooky goings on for kids and adults at Loch Lomond Shores, with Halloween themed activities, facepainting and more, including the popular Walking Theatre Company with The Skeleton Bride. Includes fun fair, fireworks displays, competitions for best costume and entertainment by in the Overflow carpark.

See website for more details: www.lochlomondshores.com

Loch Lomond Shores’ farmers and artisan craft markets 5th/12th/19th Nov

27th & 28th Oct Family-friendly beer festival with live music into the evening. Includes guest appearances from Scottish beer, cider, gin, vodka and soft drinks makers. See website for details www.lochlomondshores.com

Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Light switch on and fireworks 19th Nov www.lochlomondshores.com

25th Nov onwards Santa Claus is coming to town! Visit Santa

in his grotto at Loch Lomond Shores from 25th November and December to make sure you’re on his good list this year. See www.lochlomondshores.com for details

25th Nov onwards Loch Lomond Shores’ Christmas Market Christmas foods, drinks and crafts from local suppliers and makers to get you into the festive spirit – and ideal for Christmas presents, too!

St Andrew’s Day Celebrations 2nd & 3rd Dec Fireworks, activities and festivities for all ages to celebrate St Andrew’s Day. Includes Highland Games, ceilidh, Scottish drinks, kids activities and special treats for anyone called Andrew! See website for more details: www.lochlomondshores.com

Take another look at Loch Lomond Shores Shopping including Jenners - a House of Fraser store Outdoor & Indoor Activities Great events Find out everything we offer, including our weekly markets, kids activities, Hallowe'en and St Andrew's Day events at www.lochlomondshores.com

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

Designer Rings W I T H

H A N D S E T

S T O N E S

We’re introducing our new Captivate collection and Matrix rings!

Together with our classic River Ripple ring set above, these two new designs are inspired by natural forms. Matrix, shown below captures the structure and texture of rock in gold and in silver and each precious gemstone is individually set by hand.

Captivate represents particles and minerals caught in crevices as cascading water washes over softer rock and stones in Scotland’s many burns. Gold granules are often trapped in this way and this inspired Sheila to create this new contemporary collection in gold.

Captivate is also available in silver and on request our rings can be made in unusual metals such platinum, white or rose gold.

Janice and her team look forward to showing you all Sheila’s new designs at Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch

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Park Life | Business

O R K N E Y

D E S I G N E R

J E W E L L E R Y

Captivate

N E W

C O L L E C T I O N

Designed & Made in Orkney, Scotland LOCH LOMOND SHORES | BALLOCH | 01389 722 212

sheilafleet.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Activities/Kids/What’s On

Discover th beauty of ree Christmas al trees!

Real Christmas trees: On sale 4th-22nd December, 10am–4pm We have Norway Spruce and Nordman Fir ranging in size from 4 to 8 feet. Prices vary with species and size.

Christmas Trail and Activities: 1st - 22nd December Pick up a festive quiz sheet from the Lodge before wandering along the waterfall trail! Take part in Christmas crafts on your return to the Lodge.

Visit Santa: 9th/10th & 16th/17th December, 12-3pm No need to book, contact the Lodge Cafe on 01877 382977 for more information.

For more info call the Lodge on 0300 0676615, email thelodge@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

follow us on

forestry.gov.uk/christmas

Autumn Highlights from Culture Stirling…

James Yorkston, Kris Drever & Withered Hand - 5 October Don’t Dribble on The Dragon - 11 October China Crisis - 20 October Session A9 - 21 October Martin Simpson - 4 November Adam Holmes & Rachel Sermanni - 11 November Molsky’s Mountain Drifters - 21 November Christmas Ceilidhs - 9 December Karine Polwart - 15 December It’s A Wonderful Life - Radio Play - 16 December

Francie & Josie - 5 October Forbidden Nights - 13 October Ray Mears - 14 October Doug Scott - 26 October The Nutcracker - 2 November Collabro - 24 November The Roy Orbison Story - 1 December Phil Cunningham’s Christmas Songbook - 16 December Santa’s Funtastic Factory - 28 December Mànran & Skerryvore - 29 December

For more information visit www.culturestirling.org or call the box office 01786 27 4000 / 01786 473 544

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Park Life | Activities/Kids/What’s On

THE 2017

House Folk Scottish Music Festival

2017 A4 Poster.pdf

1

24/08/2017

09:46

8th, 9th & 10th November

The Hoolie Dhu C

M

Saturday 11th November 2017, 7.30pm, Killearn Village Hall

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CM

MY

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CMY

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The organisers welcome all the “Casual Kilted Gents & Bonnie Lassies” to The Hoolie Dhu, 2017 Welcome Fizz with thanks to Hewitt & Aker Full bar and stand-up supper provided by The Old Mill Live music from Jen McLean and Catherine Ward, followed by

Roadhouse

There will also be a raffle on evening supported by local businesses.

Terms & Conditions: Tickets are priced at £27 and are not refundable.

Admittance is strictly on presentation of a valid ticket only.

Your ticket is also your voucher for your supper. Over 18’s only.

Tickets available NOW email: killearnhooliedhu@yahoo.com to reserve tickets

This Celtic music festival is now in its 10th year and takes place in three highly intimate and historic venues over three nights in the wonderful setting of Kinlochard in the Trossachs.

The concerts offer an expo of bagpipe, accordion, strings, fiddle, vocals and flute music fusing traditional and contemporary Scottish styles.

The theme this year is the Scots language with each night and artists differing from the other which include a blend of great music for everyone with a mix of folk, modern and traditional styles.

Late night jamming session in the stables bar at Ledard Farm after the Friday 10th concert with artists. Rover tickets available offering a discounted rate for the entire festival!

For concert details and tickets please visit www.scottishmusicfestival.co.uk Or call: 07742 621 907 (booking in advance advisable)

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 35

Nurturing and AA nurturing Learning Environment enviroment for our for our children children provided provided by by Heron House Heron House With With aa Nurturing Nurturing and and Learning Learning Environment, Environment, we we provide provide our our children children with with positive positive learning learning experiences experiences and and opportunities opportunities from from the the very very minute minute they they arrive! arrive! Our Our fees fees are are competitive competitive and and our our staff staff are are loving loving and and experienced. experienced.

We Facilitate the drop off and collection of your preschool children from Killearn Nursery Class. Our Stunning nursery has an Out of School facility for attendees only, as places are at a premium.

Some other info. Our 3-5 children who leave us to go to school ,chose ,chose their their own own summer summer trip trip to to the the Safari Safari Park Park school and our our Graduation Graduation Day Day was was celebrated celebrated with with aa Teddy Teddy and Bears Picnic.

Picnic. We We have have been been exploring exploring Mugdock Mugdock Country Country Bears Park, visiting The Gruffalo at Kilmardinny and many other Park, visiting The Gruffalo at Kilmardinny and many other trips and outings in our local and wider environment. trips and outings in our local and wider environment.

Even our youngest babies are out twice daily, n the fresh air exploring.

Our indoor areas have undergone some changes over the last few months and now we have more natural, holistic spaces to encourage plenty of open-ended play and selfdirected learning with a range of inviting materials.

Come along, visit us and discover more of what we do with our little people, who are happy, loved and learning.

Our beautiful nursery, sits adjacent to Killearn Glen, with ample private parking.Our large inviting,secure garden has a Bark Kitchen,Climbing frame children’s allotment and a hard surface for trikes and bikes.

Fiona or Gabi are happy to chat with you anytime, we look forward to meeting you.

Beech Drive, Killearn G63 9SD t: 01360 550 162 e: heronhousekillearn@gmail.com 959 Crookston Road, Glasgow G53 7DT t: 0141 810 5777 e: heronhousecrookston@gmail.com

Beech Drive, Killearn G63 9SD t: 01360 550 162 e: heronhousekillearn@gmail.com 959 Crookston Road, Glasgow G53 7DT t: 0141 810 5777 e: heronhousecrookston@gmail.com

36 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

FO PL OSC R AT HH AC Stunning Location.

TE K ES ND PR EE EVI Baby Places Available.

S O OU NL S Daily outdoor learning.

Y CHIME, Gym & Music Classes.

Local Authority Funded Places for 3-5yr 0lds.

Outdoor Bark Kitchen & Planting & Growing Exploring the Local and Wider Community Term Time Places Available Out of School Care for HHK attendees only Holiday Cover for 5-12 year olds Qualified Passionate Team

• • • • • • • • • • •

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 29

In this issue, it’s all about the benefits of Strength Training.

As I mentioned in my last article, strength training should be the core of your exercise programme if you are looking to lose fat and change your body shape.

I love lifting weights and it is the bulk of my training.

There are so many benefits to lifting weights, physically and mentally.

My main goal with clients is to get them stronger. With strength training you burn more calories, you feel better, you look better, you improve confidence and more.

Here are just some of the benefits you achieve from lifting weights:• Fat loss • Muscle definition • Increased strength • Boosts your immune system • Decreases your risk of injury • Increases your confidence • Improves your posture • Increases bone density (essential for woman

especially as they get older) • Increase of endorphins (feel good factor after training) Muscle is more metabolically active than fat, meaning it burns more calories when you are at rest. The more muscle you have the more calories you burn. This is why your goal should always be to lift heavy weights and get stronger, not to just exercise and burn calories.

It’s not just the calories you burn during the workouts, it’s

Biomagnetics: www.biomagnetismo.co.uk • A healing technique for all ages; integrative, holistic, preventative, non-invasive • Can offer relief from all chronic conditions and pain • Eradicates pathogens by balancing the body’s natural bioelectric system, pH and glands • Improves energy, regulates hormone levels, enhances the body’s own healing ability • Slows aging processes by preventing formation of free radicals • Aims for equilibrium and balance. Helps the body reach for greatest health potential.

• Promotes good sleep, meditation and wellbeing • 7 years of successful practice. Many testimonials

Park Life’s

Fit for Life BLOG

By Liz Ewing Personal Trainer & Sports Therapist the calories you burn 24/7.

A lot of woman want to “tone” their arms and “flatten their tummy”. However, once they start to lift and get stronger these things take care of themselves.

Please ensure you are using correct form and technique when lifting weights to avoid injuries and to ensure you are getting the most from your weights programme. If you are unsure, please speak to a qualified fitness professional who can advise you accordingly.

Be disciplined and consistent and you will get results!

For further information call Liz on 07779 784191

WIN a family ticket to our Chick Whittington panto!

!

WINLife with

Park azine g Ma

Massage

Remedial, Aromatherapy, Hot Stone, Reflexology, Reiki Gift Vouchers, Pamper Packages for couples or groups

Call Ada: 01360 661016 Mob: 07403 808083 10 Stirling Road, Drymen G63 0BN

Tickets will be for the opening weekend Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov.

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

| 37

CLASS

VILLAGE

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek Zumba - Jane Zumba - Jane Zumba - Jane Cheerobics

Body Revive Dance Central Kore Kickboxing

Ladies Netball

Balfron Gymnastics Club

Balfron Gymnastics Club

www.facebook.com/kfitstrathblane Metafit Kfit Kettlercise Metafit Kfit Body Conditioning

DAY

CONTACT

Monday Thursday Thursday Saturday Tuesday Wednesday Mon Tue/Thur Mon & Thur Wednesday Saturday Thursday

12.15pm 07759 182236 6pm 07759 182236 9.45am & 8pm 07759 182236 10am 07968 968944 9.30am - 10.30am 07968 968944 7.45pm 07968 968944 8.30pm 07917 541163 10.30am & 8.30pm 07917 541163 8pm - 9.30pm 07813 884202 8 -9pm All Abilities welcome 10.30-5pm balfrongymnastics@mail.com 5pm-8pm balfrongymnastics@mail.com

Tuesday Tuesday Friday Friday

7pm - 7.30pm 7.40pm - 8.30pm 9.30am 10am

07766 073675 07766 073675 07766 073675 07766 073675

HIIT

Killearn Mill Monday Stats

Killearn Mill Monday Kettlebell Workout

Killearn Mill Monday HIIT

Killearn Mill Monday Circuits

Killearn Mill Monday HIIT

Killearn Mill Tuesday ClubFit

Killearn Mill Tuesday PiYo

Killearn Mill Tuesday ClubFit

Killearn Mill Tuesday Yoga

Killearn Mill Wednesday Baby Massage

Killearn Mill Wednesday Toddler Yoga

Killearn Mill Wednesday Both sessions finish with chat, tea, coffee & cake! Contact Baby & Me to book.

12.45pm 6.30pm 7.00pm 8.00pm 8.30pm 10.45am 6.30pm 7.30pm 8.30pm 9.30am 11.00am 1.00pm

07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961

722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757

Killearn Mill BoxFit Yoga

Killearn Mill Bootcamp

Killearn Mill Kettlebell Workout

Killearn Mill HIIT

Killearn Mill Circuits

Killearn Mill Circuits

Killearn Mill Adult Ballet

Killearn Mill Burlesque

Killearn Mill Last Friday of month no ballet or burlesque, instead Adult Acro Core

Killearn Mill Tiny Tumblers (18m-3years) Killearn Mill Tumble Tots (age 3 & 4) Killearn Mill Acro Technique 1 (P1 & P2) Killearn Mill Acro Technique 2 (P3+)

Killearn Mill Acro Boys (age 8+)

Killearn Mill

6.30pm 7.30pm 9.45am 6.30pm 7.30pm 8.00pm 9.45am 6.40pm 7.40pm 6.40pm 9.00am 10.00am 10.45am 11.30am 12.30pm 1.30pm

07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961 07961

722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757 722757

STUDIO 63

38 |

Gartocharn Gartocharn Blanefield Strathblane Strathblane Killearn Balfron Balfron Balfron High School Balfron High School Balfron High School Balfron High School

TIME

Strathblane Village club Strathblane Village club Strathblane Village club Strathblane Village club

Contact: Michelle 07961 722757

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Friday Friday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday

M

IC | Business Park W Life

AX RO AV R SUC AI EM TIO LA OV N BL A E L

When someone in the family has a hearing loss the whole family has a hearing problem.

– Dr Mark Ross PHD If that someone is you...

• It might just be that other family members get a bit irritated with you at having to repeat themselves.

• It could be that they miss sharing things with you, like a joke or a favourite TV programme.

• Or it could be that they’re worried about how withdrawn from them you have become

At Clements Hearing Services we have helped thousands of people with hearing loss and their families. We’ve been helping them since since 1996, and we can help you too using the most up to date hearing aid technology. The most important thing to us is to give you good service. You get to know us and we get to know you.

Get in touch... clementshearingservices.co.uk

0141 954 6030

clementshearingservices www.parklifescotland.co.uk | 39

KIDS GROUPS & CLUBS EVENT / CLUB Aberfoyle Toddlers (age 0 - 5 years) Artworks classes (for 5 - 14 years) Art4you Kids Drawing (P5-P7) & Portfolio Class (S1-S6) Baby Massage Balfron “New Baby“ Cafe Balfron Monday Music Balfron Bairns Toddlers Balfron Razzamataz Balfron Barracudas Swim Club Balfron Gymnastics Balfron Outdoor Athletics Club Balfron Tennis Tigers Buchlyvie Baby & Toddlers Group Brig O Turk Playgroup Pre School Callander Kids Parents & Toddlers Group Callander Target Sports Club Drymen Cubs 8-11yrs (boys and girls) Drymen Scouts 11-14yrs (boys and girls) Drymen/Spanish/El Club Espanol Drymen Under 5’s Drymen Children’s golf lessons Drymen/Ballet Classes Desta Laiolo Gargunnock Playgroup Gargunnock Toddlers Gartmore Parent & Toddler Group Gartocharn Under 5’s Killearn Baby & Toddlers Group Kippen Playgroup Kippen Toddler Group Karate Zan Shim Kai Killearn Linda Turner School of Dance Killearn/Ballet Classes Desta Laiolo Killearn Monday Music Lets Dance with Lorna Pickford Strathblane Fun Hut Baby/Toddler Group Strathblane Linda Turner School Of Dance Thornhill Baby & Toddler Thornhill Pre-School Playgroup 40 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

VILLAGE / LOCATION Aberfoyle Memorial Hall McLintock Hall, Balfron Balfron Station Tir na nog Church Hall, Balfron (Term Time only) Balfron & Killearn Balfron McLintock Hall McLintock Hall, Balfron Balfron Campus Pool Balfron High school Balfron Campus Pitches Balfron Campus Buchlyvie Village Hall Brig O Turk Playgroup Pre School Kirk Hall, Callander Camp Place, Callander Drymen Church Drymen Church Church Hall, Drymen Village Hall, Drymen Buchanan Golf Club, Drymen Village Hall, Drymen & Killearn Community Centre, Gargunnock Community Centre, Gargunnock Gartmore Village Hall Kilmaronock Millennium Hall (downstairs) Church Hall, Killearn Village Hall, Kippen Village Hall, Kippen Memorial Hall, Aberfoyle Village Hall, Killearn Village Hall, Drymen & Killearn Balfron & Killearn Mugdock Country Park Kirk Rooms, Strathblane Edmonstone Hall, Strathblane Community Hall, Thornhill Community Hall, Thornhill

Kids DAY

TIME

CONTACT

Wednesday

9.30 - 11.30am

Cindy 07786 511894

Saturday

Morning

fabartbalfron@gmail.com

Wednesdays & Fridays

Morning

fabartbalfron@gmail.com

Wednesday

Various times

Claudia Duncan 07981 768081

Tuesday

10.30 - 12noon

Susan 01360 449573

Monday

9.15 - 2.45pm

Clare 01360 550166

Wednesday

9.30 - 11.30am

Facebook - Balfron Bairns

Tuesday

Various times

Mark 07715 301841

Monday, Thursday & Saturday

Various times

www.balfronbarracudas.org.uk

Sat ( 10.30 & 16.45) Thurs ( 17.00 & 20.00)

balfrongymnastics@mail.com

Wednesday

6.30 - 8pm

balfronathletics@yahoo.co.uk

Saturday & Sunday

2 - 5pm

07837 339 558

Monday

9.30 - 11.20am

Emma 07841 908184

Monday (Inc Summer holidays)

10.00 - 12noon

Alex 01877 376347

Wednesday

9.30 - 11.30am

www.callanderkids.co.uk

Monday, Tuesday & Thursday

3.30pm

Raymond 01877 330854

Wednesday

6pm - 7:30pm

Gavin 07590 370199

Wednesday

6pm - 7:30pm

Gavin 07590 370199

Saturday, Wednesday & Thursday

(3 - 11 year olds) Various Times

Michelle 07791 034003

Monday & Wednesday

9.30 - 11.30am

Michelle 07961 722757

Thursday

TBC

Jonathan 01360 660330

Monday / Tuesday

from 3.45pm / 6.30 - 8pm

0141 9421998

Monday & Thursday

9.00 - 11.30am

playgroup@gargunnock.com

Wednesday

10.00 - 11.30am

Nicola 07799 731050

Friday

9.30 - 11.30am

Laura Hart 07824 879501

Wednesday

10.00 -11.30am

Suzanne 01389 720139

Wednesday

9.30 - 11.30am

Angela 07733 224598

Tuesday & Friday

9.30 - 12noon

Jane Bain 07922 093595

Thursday

10.15 - 12noon

Aimee 07833 451979

Thursday

From 7pm

01877 382296

Wednesday & Thursday

Various times

01360 770390

Monday / Tuesday

from 3.45pm / 6.30 - 8pm

0141 9421998

Monday

9.15 - 2.45pm

Clare 01360 550166

Wed 1 - 1.45 Tots Age 2-3 | 2 - 2.45 Pre-School Age 3-4 | 4.15 - 5.15 Primary P1-P4

01360 551689 / 07500 213473

Monday, Wednesday & Friday

9.15 - 11.15am

funhutstrathblane@gmail.com

Monday & Tuesday

Various times

01360 770390

Tuesday

10.00 - 11.30am

Joanna Bassett 01786 850707

Tuesday & Friday

9.30 - 12noon

Fiona Beaton 01786 850510 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 41

Mugdock Country Park Events

www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk Call to Book 0141 9566100 Walk – Campsie to Cadder

Sunday 1st October 2pm – 4:30pm Discover a wealth of wildlife and history on this varied Ranger led walk through woodlands, along old railway lines and canal towpaths.

Booking essential Cost £3

All (Solar) Systems Go! Mugdock

Friday 6th October 7pm – 8.30pm In our first stargazing session of the winter, come along and learn some fascinating facts about our Solar System and then search the October skies for winter constellations and planets. Family event. Indoor presentation if weather is bad. Booking essential Cost £3.

Fungus Amungus, Mugdock

Sunday 8th October 2pm – 4pm Find out about the mushrooms and fungi that pop up around us at this time of year. Marvel at their different colours and shapes as we rustle for Russulas, burrow for Boletus and wander for Waxcaps on this autumnal walk. Booking essential Cost £3.

MoSSFest 2017 - Science fun for everyone

Sunday 8 October, 11am-4pm The Middle of Scotland Science Festival (MoSSFest) is returning to Mugdock Country Park this year bringing a host of exciting science activities suitable for all ages to this free family event. There will be activities at the visitor centre and around the Park. Follow us @MoSSfest and facebook.com/mossfestscotland for the latest details. Admission free.

Suitable for all ages.

TrailFest RunSOCIAL & Mugdock Mile Race

Mugdock – Sunday 8th October & Sunday 12th Nov TrailFest host guided social runs on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

Choose from 5k or 10k distance and explore new trails around the park.

Finish up your social run with a sprint around the Mugdock Mile race - you might even win a spot prize or to be crowned King or Queen of the Mile! tickets £5 - £6 Advance booking is essential - places are limited and fill up fast. https://trailfestscotland.com 42 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Build a Harry Potter Birch Broom at Lenzie Moss

Friday 13th October 1pm – 3pm Birch trees are being removed from Lenzie Moss to help the bog areas become boggy again. So let’s put the birch to good use and make a broom to fly to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Join in anytime, the Ranger Service and Friends of Lenzie Moss will be there to assist you. Follow the signs from the moss end of Lenzie Railway Station car park. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Donations welcome, includes materials.

Have a Go Longbow

Mugdock. Sunday 15th October 2pm Take a shot at medieval archery with the Green Hollow Bowmen in the Walled Garden. Watch the demonstration at 2pm or turn up and join in at any time. £1.

What Do Owls Have For Dinner?

Tuesday 17th October 2pm – 3.30pm Owls cannot digest the bones and fur of the small mammals they feed on: in the owl’s stomach the bones and fur are completely cleaned then formed into a pellet and popped out the mouth of the owl! Come along and have a go at dissecting the pellets - it is truly fascinating and very popular with all ages. Meet the Ranger at the Visitor Centre. Booking essential. Cost £3.

Pond Monsters of South Lodge, Mugdock

Wed 18th October 2pm – 3:30pm Bold backswimmers, wicked water boatmen and crafty caddisfly nymphs are just a few of the amazing creatures you might find. Join the Ranger Service to try and catch these fascinating underwater beasties.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear wellies and meet at South Lodge car park or follow the signs to find the Ranger. Cost £3.

Dig a Pond at Mugdock

Friday 20th October 10:30am - 12pm Ponds are great for wildlife so why not pull on your wellies and come along to help the Ranger dig a new one! Messy fun for all the family.

Wear wellies, gardening gloves and

clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!

Meet at the Visitor Centre or follow the signs to find the Ranger. Free.

Get Your Hands Dirty, Mugdock

Sat 21st October 10am - 12.30pm Ranger led hands-on task to benefit Mugdock’s green places. 16yrs +, no experience necessary. Booking essential 0141 956 6100. Free.

Willow Basket In a Day

Mugdock: Saturday 21st October, 10am – 4pm Participants will learn to weave a small traditional willow basket in a lovely setting the Osprey Room by our teacher Joan Campbell Price £55 and that includes material and plenty of notes. Beginners-Advanced training.

Contact Joan on 0141 563 5996 or email joan.campbell1@ntlworld.com

Wild Woodland Adventure – No Parents Required!

Sun 22nd Oct 2pm – 4pm & Sun 26th Nov 2pm – 4pm Join the Forest School Ranger for a wild woodland adventure. Woodland activities for 8-12 year olds. Booking essential Cost £7.

Moon Evening at Mugdock

Friday 3rd November 7pm – 8:30pm Craters and chasms, rockets and rocks, stars and spacemen! Go lunar loopy and learn all about the moon’s lumps and bumps on this Ranger led family event that’s simply out of this world! Booking essential Cost £3.

Get Your Hands Dirty, Mugdock

Sat 18th Nov 10am – 12.30pm Ranger led hands-on task to benefit Mugdock’s green places. 16yrs +, no experience necessary. Booking essential Free.

Games and Trails, Mugdock

Sunday 19th November 2pm – 3pm Join in on a fascinating fact finding trail out in the Country Park, then run around with our exciting environmental themed games. Fun for all 5-8 year olds, all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential Cost £3.

Park Life Magazine

Food/Drink/Accommodation

Book Now Christmas Day Lunch - 4 course menu ÂŁ45, smaller portion for kids & seniors ÂŁ27.50

Pure Malt

Originally from Persia and its bordering lands, the Felted Trellised The fleet of 24 yurts range in size from the Nomadic Tent, or Yurt, has been in existence for over 2,000 years. 2 person, 8 foot in diameter yurt to the Mega 40 footer, which caters to banqueting 150 people. Sale or leasing possibilities create affordable options, particularly for campsites.

Cambusbeg Farm, Callander FK17 8LJ | Email: paul@redkiteyurts.com | Tel: 01877 330 943

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 43

The Fintry Inn

Park Life

Restaurant

REVIEW

excites the taste buds, again for another visit. There is also a menu for light lunches.

The Fintry Inn, in the picturesque village of Fintry is a gem for both locals and visitors.

THE

We visited for Sunday lunch and both decided to have the traditional Sunday roast. We shared fresh scallops served with a bacon jam chutney as a starter. First class. The roast this week was delicious Gammon served with a grain mustard sauce, perfectly cooked vegetables and roast potatoes, also the best Yorkshire pudding I have tasted! My wife chose a dessert of Creme brûlée cappuccino with small doughnuts on the side. I had a double espresso. The usual menu is very varied with plenty to choose, we liked the idea of sharing platters, maybe next time. The specials menu certainly

The proprietors are Frankie and Joyce Carey and son Peter as the head chef. They have done an amazing job in such a short time.

The decor in the restaurant is very traditional and in good taste.

On Wednesday evening and Sunday from 2pm - 5pm musicians assemble in the bar area and the selection we heard today was a lovely choice, even to sing along.

On the first Saturday of every month there is a ceilidh, again a very popular event.

The team seem to have found the right formula, we will certainly be back. They also have a holiday flat in the building which has three bedrooms and is available to rent on Airbnb.

Visited by Ken & Mona of Thornhill.

EST 1750

Under NEW Management

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

New menu launch from October!

Main Street Fintry • Tel: 01360 860224 44 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

LIVE

MUSIC!

Park Life | Business

HOGMANAY BALL 2017 Join us at Gartmore House on the 31st December and bring in the new year with excellent food, great entertainment and good company. from 7.30pm. Scotland’s leading rock Ceilidh band Bahookie will entertain you throughout the evening, followed by a disco into the wee hours. £45.00 per adult and £22.50 per child.

Residential packages are also available.

Visit our website for further information and to view the menu.

GARTMOREHOUSE.COM Gartmore House Stirling, FK8 3RS 01877 382 991 mail@gartmorehouse.com

#gartmoreexperience www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 45

Buchanan Arms Bowling Club Buchanan Arms Bowling Club had a very successful open day at the end of their season to entice and encourage new members to come on board next season.

The rain held back till the end of the day and did nothing to dampen the spirits of all taking part in what turned out to be a rather unexpected fun day.

Whatever preconceived ideas I might have had about the day before hand they were quickly dispersed after arrival when meeting a friendly welcoming group of people all ages and all keen to share their knowledge and skills.

Im looking forward to becoming a member in 2018, if you would like to give it a try come along to their next open day at the start of the season.

Membership Cost £40 Season: April-September Email: jockmckenzie@hotmail.co.uk John McKenzie 07737 859442.

Thank you to The Clachan Inn for providing a big slap up meal for our cup winners!

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS ACCESSORIES • CARDS • COFFEE SHOP

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

LIGHT LUNCHES & FABULOUS BAKING ALL HOMEMADE • OPEN 7 DAYS

WE BUY GOURMET MUSHROOMS FOR CASH

Girolles, Ceps, Autumn Chanterelles, Hedgehogs Mushrooms & Many Others

Call Maxime on 07930 581224 For Arrangements

46 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk Winners Ellen Brown, Kirsteen Bain, Neil McLuckie.

Park Life | Business

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.

Christmas & Hogmanay Bookings now being taken.

Gift

Vouch e

Availab rs le

The Square, Drymen, Near Loch Lomond G63 0Bl | Tel: 01360 660824 | E: Info@clachaninndrymen.co.uk Open 11am - 1am Friday & Saturday • Children welcome • www.parklifescotland.co.uk Dogs welcome

| 47

Park Life

spotlight on...

Scotia Spice

The love of her mother’s Punjabi cooking was the inspiration for Yasmin to start up a cottage business using the skills passed down the generations.

Scotia Spice was born in 2006 when Yasmin decided to open her kitchen and set up a cookery school. This was an instant success and enjoyable for both teacher and students alike, but Yasmin was looking to expand the business. In 2012 she had expanded into Punjabi Curry Kits.

Today the Recipe and Curry Kits can be purchased directly from Yasmin at scotiaspice.co.uk - a great way for you to purchase a gift and send directly to the lucky recipient or as special treat for yourself. Alternatively you can give Yasmin a ring on 01360 449399 and pop by to pick them up directly from Scotia Spice.

Yasmin started with just half a dozen kits simply packaged which she sold at a local Fayre and word soon spread. Two years later with support from Business Gateway in Stirling Scotia Spice developed the beautiful packaging they currently have. The rest as they say is history. This thriving business now sells thousands of gift Punjabi Curry Kits nationwide and Yasmin was named “Curry Queen 2016” by Scottish Curry Awards - a very prestigious title to hold!

Yasmin now has a business partner, Pauline Neison and a staff of five. Looking forward ahead to 2018, they are planning to expand the business of the Punjabi Curry Gift Kits and to penetrate further into the market with Gift Recipe Kits. Now with a great committed team on board, all from the local area, flexible working hours, to suit those with children at school , Scotia Spice is a friendly working environment and an exciting place to be.

Punjabi curry kits and cookery school

True Punjabi Cooking www.scotiaspice.co.uk T: 01360 449399

48 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 49

Park Life | Business

BUTCHERY • CAFÉ • FARM SHOP • DELI

B

right and airy café, with stunning views and a fresh, interesting menu including delicious daily specials and fabulous home baking. Shop selling daily essentials; fruit, veg and milk, unusual gifts and speciality food and drink. Butchery department with quality meat that is locally sourced.

Blair Drummond Smiddy, Blair Drummond, Stirling FK9 4UY Tel: 01786 235024 Email: hello@blairdrummondsmiddy.co.uk Open Daily: Mon – Sat 9am – 5pm and Sunday 9am – 5pm www.blairdrummondsmiddy.co.uk

Devil Dash 2017!

Saturday 28 October at 10:30am Moss O’Balloch Under 5’s go free!

The CHAS Devil Dash is back for a thrilling third year and this time around, it has even more Hallowe’en themed fun and frolics!

Run or walk around one of the two distances: the 6.66km Devil Dash or the 3.33km Devil Dawdle.

Each week in Scotland three children die because of an incurable condition. Today, CHAS can only reach one of those families to provide the support they deserve. We will not stop until we can reach EVERY family, where and when they need us.

Sign up to this family friendly spooktacular at www.chas.org.uk and help us achieve this mission.

50 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

The Essence of Place:

An open air screening by candlelight Join us at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond on Saturday 21 October for a unique event celebrating the work of our artist in residence, Susannah Ramsay. Take a candlelit walk through the woods and view Susannah’s film poem, The Essence of Place, outside in the open air. This short film, lasting only 5 minutes, will play on a loop, and will be screened between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.

Susannah has been working with us at Loch Lomond as part of her PhD research for the University of Stirling, and Glasgow School of Art. Her piece of work, The Essence

of Place presents the landscape and wildlife of Loch Lomond through the changing seasons. In it, Susannah explores the meaning of place as a way to connect with memories, and focuses on our relationship with nature and landscapes.

Booking is essential. Slots to view this audiovisual installation can be purchased online at www.eventbrite. co.uk. Tickets cost £10 and £8 RSPB members Parking for the event is at Ross Priory.

Rspb.org.uk

Graham Sandals Timber Buildings Scottish Larch Garden Rooms, Studios, Garages & Shelters

Unit 5 Craigarnhall, Bridge of Allan, Stirling FK9 4NG Tel: 01786 841788 | Mobile: 07773 809345 | www.grahamsandals.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life Magazine

Gardening & Outdoors Craig Tree Care

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

Hire or Buy Locally at...

Stirling Road, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0AA T: 01360 660 688 E: admin@frasercrobb.com www.frasercrobb.co.uk

✔ Extensive Range ✔ Friendly Team ✔ Expert Advice ✔ Training Provided ✔ Service & Support

Fraser C Robb is delighted to continue supporting Trossachs Search & Rescue through 2017’

52 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

SCOTIA CONTRACTS

Park Life | Business

GROUNDWORKS | LANDSCAPING | BUILDING

• Landscaping • Drainage & Construction • Lawncare & Turfing • Fencing & Decking • Foundation excavation and groundworks • Garage building & conversions • Internal flooring works • Extensions & attic conversions

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 01877 381212 for a FREE consultation. kenny.stewart@scotiagardens.co.uk

www.scotiagardens.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Benview Garden Centre - catering to the needs of garden lovers for 40 years! so this October, Sat 14th & Sun 15th, there will be a full weekend of free events to celebrate this anniversary, a thank you to the local communities who have supported the centre over all these years.

Situated in the beautiful surroundings of the Trossachs, Benview Garden Centre sits between Balfron Station and Aberfoyle on the A81 at Ward Toll and has been catering to the needs of garden lovers for 40 years.

It has been 10 years since Graham Scott took on Benview,

The thing that sets this garden centre apart is its friendly and helpful staff, as well as the great selection of plants and garden equipment. This is a place for all your gardening needs and more. It has a huge selection of pet food, an extensive range of wild bird care and a broad range of food and gifts adjacent to the conservatory Café

By McMillian’s. In the Cafe you can sit, relax and enjoy the stunning view of the mountains whilst indulging in delicious freshly prepared food.

With Guyana in Aberfoyle having sadly closed, don’t miss out, find this hidden gem and put Benview Garden Centre on the map.

10 Year anniversary with Graham & Team at Benview Nursery Weekend of events 14th & 15th October

Celebrating Past & Present!

Established in 1970 by Jean Woodburn

Now run by Graham & Team

Ward Toll, Balfron Station G63 0QZ www.benviewgardencentre.co.uk T: 01360 850525 E: info@benviewgardencentre.co.uk

54 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

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

call today for free advice & quotation Telephone 01360 550087 Mobile 07966 864811 MAGAZINE Email johncurrie@hotmail.com

WIN!e with

Lif Park zine a g Ma

Don’t forget our fabulous COMPETITIONS!

Country Living Christmas Fair p14 Crafts for Christmas Ticket Offer p30 Macrobert Panto Tickets p37 To enter our competitions visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 55

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

Park Life

AUTUMN GARDENING

TIPS Professional Tree Surgeons • Tree Removals • Tree Pruning • Hedge Cutting • Stump Removal • Tree Surveys • Logs Our qualified, insured and experienced team is based in Doune, specialising in all aspects of tree surgery and arboriculture.

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

FF! 5% O quote

n you Whe ark Life P zine Maga

1 Cut back perennials that have died down 2 Divide herbaceous perennials 3 Move tender plants, including aquatic ones, into a greenhouse or conservatory 4 Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts 5 Prune climbing roses 6 Finish collecting seeds from the garden to sow next year 7 Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas 8 Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf 9 Clear up fallen leaves - especially from lawns, ponds and beds 10 Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging 11 Plant tulip bulbs for a spring display next year 12 Prune roses to prevent wind-rock 13 Plant out winter bedding

T : 01786 821750 M : 07428 122018 E: malcolm@tdtrees.co.uk www.tdtrees.co.uk 56 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

14 Insulate outdoor containers from frost - bubblewrap works well 15 Put out bird food to encourage winter birds into the garden 16 Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed - to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting

Park Life | Gardening & Outdoors

R.G Paving & Hard Landscaping

Quality Workmanship at competitive prices

DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS • PATHS • STEPS • PONDS FENCING • DRAINAGE • TURF • ARTIFICIAL GRASS Contact us today for a free quote!

M: 07990 635530 | T: 01786 842343 | E: rgpaving@hotmail.com

Natural Stone

Architectural ~ Walling ~ Paving ~ Ornamental All Enquiries Welcome

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

www.tradstocks.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 57

Park Life | Homes & Interiors

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.

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

Tel: 01360 550830

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

Transform your kitchen EST.

1999

Before

• From a door swap to a complete kitchen • Large choice of doors, worktops & accessories • Installed by local, skilled craftsmen ®

CALL IAN OR LAURA FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

0141 942 0977 dreamdoors.co.uk

58 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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

Park Life | Homes & Interiors

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

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

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 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Getting the House ready for Christmas!

Park Life spoke to Catherine Crawford from Head for the Bed

The run into the Christmas period is a hectic time of year.

The weather is turning autumnal, much like the summer we had! Halloween and Bonfire Night loom and the thought of Christmas can put even the most organised of us into a flat spin. With presents to buy and meals to plan, it’s easy to overlook the house, which may be looking a little tired around the edges. But forward planning can ensure that your home is prepared and looking gorgeous, ready to greet your yuletide guests.

The key to good planning is to keep it simple. Rather that trying to tackle everything at the same time and getting nothing finished, try to focus on a few key tasks. Pay attention to the rooms that will be on display over the Festive period. A quick coat of paint can lift a tired looking hallway and a new rug or runner can do wonders, disguising a tatty carpet or scuffed floor. Similarly, a few well chosen cushions and throws are very effective at changing the look of a room.

Choosing a festive theme and using it throughout will bring a sense of order to your home. With regard to upcoming trends for Christmas 2017, Pinterest is a great source of ideas.

One key trend this year is Nomadic Christmas, a twist on the ever popular Nordic, using rustic materials such as bleached woods, dried foliage and geometric fabrics.

Eucalyptus green and warm greys create a calm palette with dusky pink accents adding an earthy element.

Copper accessories complete the look.

Above all else, when Christmas finally comes around, don’t to relax and enjoy yourself. Happy planning!

60 | forget www.parklifescotland.co.uk

THE FABRIC GALLERY Huge Range of Designer & Discounted Furnishing Fabrics Quality Furnishings Made to Order

Quality Roman Blinds,Furnishings Headboards, Curtains, Loose Covers MadeTailored To Order

Covers, Curtains, • Loose Wallpapers Headboards, • Interior Designetc • Interior Home Accessories & Gifts Design Service • Wallpapers Upholstery & Loose Covers Home Accessories, Gifts ERCOL: New Pads & Covers Made Small Antiques • Dolls House Food

SALE

Quality 2nd Hand Sofas & Chairs: 25% -Parker 50%Knoll offetc ALL STOCK Multiyork; – call for details.

Fabrics • Moon Wool Cuts • Cushions etc Main Street, Aberfoyle (next to the Coach House) Main Street, Aberfoyle

Monday--Saturday Monday Saturday : 10am 10am -- 4.30pm 4.30pm

Tel: Tel: 01877 01877 382873 382873 || www.thefabricgallery.co.uk www.thefabricgallery.co.uk

Park Life | Homes & Interiors

COMING SOON! Park Life Magazine

Christmas & New Year 2017/18

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

Giving your home the interior it deserves

full 88 pages packed of local information to prepare you for a wonderful !

Festive season ...

What’s On Locally Pantos, Christmas Out, Markets, Nights Dining & don’t forget ! the Competitions Park Life Local Christmas Shopping Guide for Gifts, Wreaths & Trees

FREE

Christmd as an New Year 2017-18

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

20,000

copies printed & delivered by Royal Mail

family run business

01360 661456 www.mykitcheninteriors.com

In The Scottish Stove Centre

63, Main Street, Croftamie, G63 0EU

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

Our next edition covers Christmas and New Year, copy deadline is 3rd November.

88 pages packed full of local info to prepare for a wonderful festive season! What’s on locally. Park Life local shopping guide for christmas gifts!

BOOK NOW!

Elin Isaksson Glass

Handblown glass in simple Scandinavian forms.

Gifts includes candle holders, bowls, whisky glasses etc.

Upcoming shows - Handmade Edinburgh, the Hub 27 - 29 Oct. Christmas Sale (at studio) - 20% off stock! 24 Nov - 3 Dec

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Homes & Interiors

We custom make upholstered headboards to your specification.

Choose a style, pick a fabric, make your mark... t 07759 847874 e headforthebed@btinternet.com w headforthebed.co.uk a North Lodge, Gartocharn, Loch Lomond, G83 8RZ

Sash & Casement Window Repair

Double & Secondary Glazing | Bespoke New Windows

Book your free, no obligation survey & quote Call today

62 |

0800 243 126 www.ventrolla.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

LOVE YOUR

Windows

Park Life | Homes & Interiors

MAGAZINE

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

Before

After

We relo are

to 2A cating Cr in Octo oss Street tuned ber, stay for e chang xciting es!

Carpets • Vinyls • Rugs • Lighting • Furniture • Soft Furnishings Candles • Kitchenware • Home Accessories

Home Interiors & Domestic Flooring

Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page, with over 3000 likes now and daily updates on local news and events. Send us your events on Facebook and we can help spread the word for you to make your day even busier!

We are very excited about being able to supply you with a fantastic range of wall coverings and co ordinating fabrics and now have a fabulous selection from Voyage Decoration, Iliv, and Pip Studio, offering an eclectic mix from the bold and beautiful to the subtle and sublime!

A curtain and blind making service is also available with selected fabrics. Why not have a bespoke chair or sofa made from Voyage Decoration, choose the style, fabric and design and they will make you a truly individual piece!

4 Cross Street, Callander FK17 8EA • Tel: 01877 331994 • watsinteriors@gmail.com • www.watsinteriors-flooring.co.uk

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

• • • •

Wills Power of Attorney Residential Property Executries

Out-of-Hours and Home Appointments available.

Suzie Falconer Your Local Solicitor

0141 847 4946 suzie.falconer@walkerlaird.co.uk

Having lived in the Killearn area for over ten years, I have noticed that, whilst there are accountancy, financial advising and other professional services, there is not the same coverage for quality local legal advice for those in the Park Life area.

Residents are having to travel to Milngavie, Stirling or Glasgow for these services.

My aim is to change that by bringing the expertise and the reputation of Walker Laird to this area, offering home visits, out-of-hours appointments and a local point of contact.

Walker Laird is a family focused firm which has been providing legal advice to generations of clients in the west of Scotland for over two hundred years. The firm employs more than 50 staff, led by 3 partners. I joined the firm in 2008 from a financial services and commercial property background and have since focused on private client work, dealing with all aspects of residential property, wills, powers of attorney and executries. I want to bring these services here, together with the wider knowledge and support available within Walker Laird, including estate agency, commercial property, family and child law and employment law.

At the heart of the firm is the desire to provide good, pragmatic, cost-effective advice, and I look forward to bringing just that to the local area.

To find out more, please call me on 0141 847 4946, or visit our website.

64 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.walkerlaird.co.uk

Park Life | Business

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

E: enquiries@sykamandco.co.uk W: www.sykamandco.co.uk T: 07791 718861

mending broken windows and rotten apples

tel: 01877 382994 mobile: 07796 002001 www.microcroft.co.uk Computer Support for Home & Small Businesses in and around the National Park

WIN! with

Life Park zine a Mag

MAGAZINE

Don’t forget our fabulous COMPETITIONS!

Country Living Christmas Fair p14 Crafts for Christmas Ticket Offer p30 Macrobert Panto Tickets p37 To enter our competitions visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 65

Park Life | Business

66 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

FUEL for thought!

M Percy Ltd, also known as woodforfuel.com, is an established family firewood and woodchip supplier based near Balfron in Stirlingshire.

From producing logs for family and friends back in 2004 the business has grown and grown through word of mouth.

Recently, a new screener has been introduced to their production process. This cleans the logs by removing any loose bark and debris before they are force dried on drying floors to the correct low moisture content.

Product quality assurance, sustainability and reliable customer service are all essential to the ethos of the Company. All their timber is sourced locally in Scotland and purchased from suppliers who are approved under the Forestry Stewardship Scheme - no imported wood is used.

There is only one way to produce good quality clean and dry logs and that is the right way.

Woodforfuel.com continue to be externally audited and are extremely proud that they are accredited and certified under Woodsure Plus, the UK’s only Government wood fuel quality assurance scheme. Woodforfuel.com are also authorised to appear on the UK Government’s Biomass Suppliers List (BSL), this is necessary for customers who have installations as part of the RHI initiative. This gives their customers assurance of consistent high quality wood fuel, they are a supplier you can trust.

For more information visit www.woodforfuel.com email Anna at anna@woodforfuel.com or call 07824 366321 / 01360 449369

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 67

Park Life | Business

Hardwood

LOGS

T’s & C’s Apply. Valid till 30/09/17

Over 60 years’ experience fuelling homes, businesses and farms.

• Net bags of logs • Net bags of kindling • Net bags of peat • Bulk bags of logs

Supplier of bulk fuels including Kerosene, Gas Oil, Marine Gas Oil, Diesel & LPG

WIN

‘Winter Planning’ Prize draw

Order Heating Oil before 30th September and you’ll be entered into our ’Winter Planning’ Prize draw ...Now is the time to plan ahead & consider your oil requirements this winter...

Prizes include: a £250 Amazon Voucher, a FREE 500 litres of heating oil or a FREE boiler service, plus many more.

Contact Gleaner Oils today on:

0800 833 534 www.gleaner.co.uk

Barn dried, delivered & stacked.

Call Blair day or evening

01786 870328

E: wdbuchanan@btinternet.com

Fowler & Son CHIMNEY SWEEPS Modern sweeping with a traditional twist.

Cowls supplied & fitted T: 01436 670124 M: 07875 068510

West Coast Heating

Domestic & Commercial CHIMNEY SWEEPING POWER-SWEEP SPECIALIST MEMBER OF GUILD OF MASTER SWEEPS

Fife - Lothian - Stirlingshire Perthshire - Strathclyde 01383 807 420 07790 545 036 www.fireworkchimneysweep.co.uk

68 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

• Install • Service • Repair • Boilers, Fires, Cookers Warm Air • Bathroom Installations • LPG Caravan and Boat

0141 775 4200 07944 642253 07885 752298

Park Life | Business

Like us on Facebook Pet foods, supplements, toys and now dog bathing and grooming. Plus complete stove solutions from sale, installation and maintenance to fuel and accessories.

Get your chimney swept now for Winter

f

SHOP ONLINE feedsandstoves.co.uk

• Kiln dried hardwood • Kindling • Coal • Firelighters • Chimney Sweeping • Fireside Accessories • Animal Feeds • Animal Supplements • Pet Toys and Gifts

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm | 21 Main Street, Callander FK17 8DU | 01877 330 643 • 07795 966 514 www.feedsandstoves.co.uk | Dawn@feedsandstoves.co.uk

• Fully seasoned firewood logs & kindling.

• Delivered in bags or bulk loads.

• Best prices guaranteed.

LOMOND LOGS LTD

Order your regular supplies Tel: 01360 660264 Parkview, Croftamie, Glasgow G63 OEU www.lomondlogs.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 69

Park Life visits Scotland’s first hotel for chickens!

We know where the dogs and cats go when you are away but what about your chickens!

Hilltops Hen Hotel is a unique new local business to the Park Life area and provides luxury accommodation for your hens whilst you holiday. Angela McCooey a former primary school teacher and a mum of two to Cameron (10) and Millie (6) came up with this idea and has not looked back as business is booming.

“Hen Hotels are quite popular in the South of England but I think this a first for Scotland, they are easy guests to look after and as they are kept as pets they need attention and cuddles”

70 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Located in Boquhan, your ladies will stay in Omlet houses situated in an acre of garden. Omlet coops can be fully sterilised between visits and do not house red mite. On arrival your ladies will be provided with a free application of red mite powder. More information can be found on Facebook and full board, bedding and lots of attention are included in the price. Our smaller coop, Conic Hill, houses up to 4 chickens and costs £8 per night, our larger coop, Ben Lomond, costs £10 for 5-7 chickens and £12 for 8-10 chickens. All coops have extended Omlet runs so your ladies have an enjoyable stay with a fox proof skirt for your piece of mind. Prices are per coop and discounts are given for longer stays.

Park Life | Business

Make the most of your space extensions new build houses home offices

MORRIS ARCHITECTS

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

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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£555 £95 DISCOUNT OR

To be presented at point of purchase Terms & Conditions Apply

FIXED PRICE

ATV Service & Health Check

To be presented at point of purchase Terms & Conditions Apply

Gordon Agri Scotland Ltd, Drymen G63 0EX • Tel: 01360 6 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

72 |

OFFICIAL & AUTHORISED ATV DEALERS FOR WEST CENTRAL SCOTLAND Gordon Agri Scotland Ltd, based in Drymen are now your local official and authorised HONDA ATV dealers.

Steven and David Gordon commented “As an established ATV dealer in the area we look forward to securing the continued custom of the Honda ATV users”.

“It’s an exciting time for our company, as the Honda brand is universally regarded as No. 1 in the industry so it’s a real honour to represent them.”

The Honda ATV range adds to and compliments the extensive range of agricultural equipment they offer from leading manufacturers that include; Logic, Wessex, Arctic Steven & David Gordon with some of the team Cat, C-Dax and Fleming.

The expert ATV duo further stated, “We have had a great summer season exhibiting at several local shows and Livestock markets and have had a really positive response from the local farming community” With that in mind they have rolled out two fantastic offers. A massive £555 discount on selected Honda ATV’s and for present owners a fixed price ATV service for only £95.

So, for sales, service and parts contact Gordon Agri Scotland today!

Ensure your ATV is in tip-top condition using Honda genuine parts and oils. Book a service today

www.gordonagri.co.uk

661001 • Mobile: 07801 052007 • Sales - Workshop - Parts www.parklifescotland.co.uk | 73

TRADES' & ’ SERVICES !

'

Don t forget to mention Park Life when responding to an advert

STEWART REID Plumbing Services Bathroom Suites, Kitchens & Central Heating Fitted Boiler Exchanges No call out fees

Gutters repaired Fitted & cleared Outdoor Taps Fitted ÂŁ59

FREE ESTIMATES

from a tapwasher to a complete heating system

All plumbing enquiries contact Stewart: 07938 473604 / 07938 473571 sreidplumbing@hotmail.com

Archibald Billett Funeral Directors 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.

Tel: 07718 759908 | Tel: 01877 382829 | Gualann, Gartmore, Stirling FK8 3RP 74 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Park Life | Business

ALAN ROBINSON

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

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

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS (established 27 years)

tes and advice Call for estima Dumbarton: 01389 762324 Drymen: 01360 661161 | Mobile: 07831 127234

STEWART HOLLINGTON ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Established Since 1983

t: 01877 385231 m: 07885 841735

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

Fully Insured T: 07826 628320

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

COMING SOON! Park Life Magazine

Christmas & New Year 2017/18

full 88 pages packed of local information to prepare you for a wonderful !

Festive season ...

What’s On Locally Pantos, Christmas Out, Markets, Nights Dining & don’t forget ! the Competitions Park Life Local Christmas Shopping Guide for Gifts, Wreaths & Trees

FREE

Christmd as an New Year 2017-18

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

20,000

copies printed & delivered by Royal Mail

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

Our next edition covers Christmas and New Year, copy deadline is 3rd November.

88 pages packed full of local info to prepare for a wonderful festive season! What’s on locally. Park Life local shopping guide for christmas gifts!

BOOK NOW!

s

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 Mob: 07764 255163 simonheadjoineryservices@hotmail.co.uk

Gareth Hamilton

Gas Engineer For a local, professional gas service covering:

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

Servicing • Repairs Gas safety checks • Installation On all models of gas boilers, cookers & fires

For both householders & landlords Why choose us?

Gas Safe Registered • Fully-insured No call out charges

Call us now on:

Mob: 07765 439179 Tel: 01360 550634 76 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

REGISTER 585714

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.

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

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

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

Established 10yrs

Save up to half the cost of heating your home!

Hello, I’m Hydro Genie and I’m here to grant you three wishes...

Michael O’Connell To make your home instantly warmer

T: 01360 660371 M: 07732 205121 E: moose007oconnell@btinternet.com To dramatically reduce your

heating bills

LOCAL PLUMBING AND GAS WORK CARRIED OUT

To make your home more

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 78 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Hydro Genie is the trading name of: Biskit Controls Ltd, Orchard Mill, Back Loan, Thornhill, Stirling, Scotland FK8 3QB T: 01786 850 375 E: hydrogeniesales@gmail.com www.hydro-genie.co.uk @RduceURBills @RduceURBills @RduceURBills

BiskitBiskit Controls Biskit Controls Controls Limited Limited Limited

Park Life | Business

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

Endrick Decorators

advert3.indd 1

03/02/2017 15:47

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.

Westerton Farm Cottage, Killearn G63 9LE Email: Endrick.decorators@btinternet.com

Tel: 01360 660407 Mobile: 07591 586596 www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Business

5TH GARTNESS CHARITY

BEER FESTIVAL Saturday 28th October 2017 Near Drymen, 5pm - 10pm

Shuttle bus service will run from 4.45pm at Drymen Square

Real Ales, Craft Beers, Lagers, Ciders and a wee Wine bar!

N T R A ES

S

2017

B

EERFE

ST

In aid of Motor Neurone Disease Scotland and local Charities

G

www.gartnessbeerfestival.co.uk FOOD from Hewitt & Aker.

MUSIC from Oldplay

Tickets: £12.50 from www.eventbrite.co.uk

e: murraygwatt@yahoo.co.uk t: 07799 778086 80 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

art4you Scotland opened studio doors supporting Cancer Research UK Following this year’s successful summer exhibition in late August, CRUK received a generous donation of £1,212 from art4you.

Since 2012 this popular art school in Balfron Station has organised seven exhibitions supporting various local charities and this year the proceeds were donated to a very special choice of tremendous importance to Claudia and Ewen Duncan, owners of art4you Scotland.

Claudia was diagnosed with breast cancer at the end of 2016 and has recently finished her final chemotherapy. Claudia said: “We want to give back and support the important work Cancer Research UK is doing and sending a positive message to people affected by cancer. Art is our passion and it has given me and my family the strength to face this year’s challenging journey. The support from our students and my own art practice was an invaluable part of my recovery.”

Park Life | Business

DRYMEN TILING Professional Tiling Services

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

Tel: 07810 194226

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

Janet Rutherford, chair of CRUK Strathendrick Local Committee, attended the opening evening and spoke with some of the many visitors outlining the vital work undertaken by the charity and its dependence on continuing donations, since it receives no government funding. art4youScotland exhibited paintings, drawing and prints by Ewen and Claudia Duncan, Frances Douglas, Lorna MacKay and many of the art school students and calligraphy artist Iain Howie gave free taster workshops.

Ewen Duncan said “We are delighted that with the help of our different art courses we can create enough art work to open this year’s exhibition and support the important work of Cancer Research UK. The quality of the work on sale and the inspiration we pass onto our students reflects our mission: “Help people to become better artists, feed the soul and enjoy the process.”

• Gas/Oil/LPG • Central Heating • New builds/Extensions • Gas Safety Certificates

• Boiler Replacement • Boiler Service/Repair • Bathrooms • Renovations

All Types Of Work Undertaken

Jon MacIsaac

Tel: 07917391738

Email: jonmacisaac1000@aol.com www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Your Community Needs You! The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is currently recruiting Retained Duty System firefighters for Aberfoyle, Balfron, Callander, Crianlarich , Doune and Killin community fire stations.

Aberfoyle Fire Station will be holding a

Recruitment Open Evening 16th October 6pm

They are looking for men and women to carry out a range of duties including attending a wide variety of emergency incidents, as well as carrying out work within the local communities.

Firefighters will be employed under the Retained Duty System (RDS) and would be ‘on call’ to respond to a range of emergencies. We are interested in people with a variety of availability but are particularly keen to hear from those who are available during weekdays.

No matter what your background or circumstances, you may have what it takes for a rewarding and challenging career in the Service. Our RDS firefighters come from every walk of life, including shopkeepers, builders, plumbers, farmers, secretaries, engineers and directors of companies, together with people who are not currently employed. Previous experience is not required thanks to a comprehensive training programme.

Elements of the job can be physically demanding so you must be physically fit. You will also be required to respond rapidly to pager activation.

SFRS will be holding targeted recruitment events for members of the community to come along and speak to our Firefighters about their job and experiences, as well as taking the opportunity to try out some of the practical aspects of the role.

For further information please email gordon.kerr@firescotland.gov.uk or call Station Manager Gordon Kerr on 07770 826972.

Alternatively you can obtain more details on the role of a Retained Firefighter by visiting the Service website www.firescotland.gov.uk/work-with-us/retained-firefighters 82 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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 Slating and Tiling Soffit and Fascia Guttering services

Velux Windows Chimney Work Insurance and General Roughcasting and Leadwork

23 Kirkland Avenue, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9BY

www.gs-roofing.co.uk

info@gs-roofing.co.uk

For more information or to place an order visit

www.scotiapetsupplies.co.uk or call

01259 739194

Premium Dog Food delivered to your door • Foods to suit all dogs from family pets to working dogs • Well-balanced and complete • Maintain health and condition • Value for money • Already popular with many owners, kennels & breeders

15kg bags from as little as £19.99

FREE GIFT with every online order from 1st October30th November Quote Parklife10

FREE DELIVERY 10% off when you quote Parklife10 online www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Park Life | Index Accountants/Bookkeeping/Legal Baxter Accounting 65 JMC Chartered Accountants 10 Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 65 Walker Laird 65 Activities/Kids/Health & Wellbeing Buchanan Castle Golf club 22/23 Castle Rednock Trekking Centre 18 Cellfiled 21 Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society 27 CHAS Devil Dash 50 Country Living 14 Go Country 19 Heron House 36 House Folk Scottish Music Festival 35 Kippen Christmas Market 35 Loch Katrine Cruises 3 Lynda Turner School of Dance 18 McLaren Leisure 19 MacRoberts Centre 19 Razzamataz 18 Tolbooth & Albert Halls 34 The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre 34 Architects & Consultants Malcolm Parry Architects 71 MH Planning 71 Morris Architects 71 MW Consultants 71 Caravans Stirlingshire Caravans 77 Taxi/Bus & Car Hire E Mac Bus 70 Trossachs Cabs 10 Christmas Trees Duff Christmas Trees 12 Alterations & Soft Furnishings The Sewing Room 86 Computer Services Microcroft 65 Electricians Buchlyvie Electrical 75 Stewart Hollington 75 Food, Drink & Accomodation Blair drummond smiddy Farm shop 50 Cameron House Hotel 49 Coeur sauvage 46 Gartmore House 45 Red Kite Yurts 43 Town & Country Coffee Shop 46 The Clachan Inn 47 The Fintry Inn 44 The Lade Inn 43 84 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

The Oak Tree Inn 2 Funeral Services Andrew Anderson & Sons 79 Archibald Billet 74 John Coubrough Funeral Directors 8 Galleries & Gift Shops Elin Isaksson Glass 61 Loch Lomond Shores 31 Sheila Fleet Jewellery 32/33 The Nomads Tent 25 Wonderland 30 Gardening & Outdoors Benview Garden Centre 54 Craig Tree Services 52 Cruachan Landscaping 55 Fraser Robb 52 Graham Sandals Timber Buidings 51 John Currie Brick and Stonework 55 RG Paving & Hard Landscaping 57 Scotia Contracts Ltd 53 T D Trees 56 Tradstocks 57 Health & Wellbeig Biomagnetics & Complementary Therapies 37 Clements Hearing Services 39 Tir Na Nog 30 Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds 59 Colin Johnson Traditional Upholstery 59 David Thompson Designs 9 Dream Doors 58 Dream Kitchen Makeover 9 Edge of the wood 63 Elspeth Bennie artist blacksmith 58 Head for the Bed 62 Household & Industrial Floor sanding services 63 J Walker Interiors 59 Kitchen & Bathroom Interiors 61 Sparkle Carpets 4 The Fabric Gallery 60 The Nomads Tent 25 Town & Country Designs 58 Ventrolla Scotland 62 watsinteriors & flooring Ltd 63 Laundry Services The Laundry Lady 86 Local Produce Scotia Spice 48 Painters & Decorators Blain Painters 76

Endrick Decorators of Killearn 79 Jack Brand Decorating 86 Strathendrick Decorators 77 Pet Services Scotia Pet Supplies Ltd 83 Marketing/Media & Photography Paul Saunders Media & Photography 6 Plumbers Dunrite Plumbing 75 JTM Plumbing & Heating 81 Stewart Reid Plumbing Services 74 Thistle Plumbing Services 78 West Coast Heating 68 Property Cala Homes 15 Corum 88 GS Properties 87 Stoves/Fuels/Logs Biskit controls 78 Calido 4 Firework Chimney Sweep 68 Fowler & Son 68 Feeds & Stoves 69 Gleaner Oils Ltd 68 Hardwood Logs 68 Lomond Logs Ltd 69 Stirling Stove Centre 60 Wood for Fuel 66/67 Trades & Services Aberfoyle Satellite Company 85 Adrian Pirie 85 A Ferguson Plastering 85 Appliance Repairs & Spares 75 Bathroom Transformations 7 C-Mix 85 Drymen Tiling 81 Gareth Hamilton 76 Gordon Agri Ltd 72/73 GS Roofing Ltd 83 Homeworx Killearn 85 KM Joiners 8 Lorne Howell Joiners & Builders 11 Oil Boiler Maintenance 78 RM Contractors 14 Simon Head Joinery 76 Your Heating Ltd 7 & 75 Wedding Venues House for an Art Lover 13 Window Cleaners Night & Day 4

Park Life | Business

A. Ferguson Plastering

Free No Obligation Quotes

General Building • Plastering • Roughcasting Decorating • Kitchen Fittings Bathroom Fitting • Plumbing

homeworx

Roman Rd, Balfron, G63 OPW Mob: 07470 806265 Tel: 01360 440 065 E: a.ferguson_plasterers@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

MILNGAVIE FARMERS MARKET 1st Wednesday of the month; 10am-2pm 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.

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 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.

BOQUHAN FARMERS MARKET Wednesday & Thursday each week; 7am-2pm Boquhan Estate Wednesday – fruit, veg & dairy products. Thursday - additional fresh fish, bread, jams and cakes.

BENVIEW FARMSHOP Incredibly well stocked and loads of Gift ideas.

Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm Sun 10.30am-4.30pm.

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

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

EDENMILL FARM SHOP 9am-5pm Wed to Sun Edenmill deliver to local areas every Friday. If you would like to place an order, give the shop a call (01360 771 707) on a Wednesday, and your order will be delivered straight to your door on Friday, at no extra cost!

KILLEARN COUNTRY MARKET Killearn Village Hall First Saturday of the month 10am-1.30pm 86 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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 • Equine Laundry • Pet Beds

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

www.thelaundrylady.co.uk

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

Park Life | Business

SELLING HOMES LOCALLY FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS

THINKING OF SELLING AND FED UP OF INFLATED INACCURATE MARKET ASSESSMENTS? Call Mark Adams for your complimentary accurate Market Appraisal and Bespoke Marketing Strategy.

Call Mark on 07967 033 850 or email: marka.adams@gsproperties.co.uk BEARSDEN: 0141 942 9090

WEST END: 0141 334 1111

Email: info@gsproperties.co.uk

LETTING: 0141 942 1024

Website: www.gsproperties.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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Be where you want to be.

Corum’s property knowhow gets you there.

It’s not just the price you pay, it’s the added value you get.

At Corum, our unrivalled experience of the property market and proven commitment to achieving you the best price will turn your property aspirations into a reality.

If you’re looking to make a move or require a complimentary up-to-date appraisal of your property, please contact Corum Bearsden today.

Corum Bearsden

0141 942 5888 Visit our website

corumproperty.co.uk

88 |

www.parklifescotland.co.uk

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