Park life magazine dec jan 2014 by LifeMags

Your what’s on guide and advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & surrounding area

FREE

Christmas Edition 2014

Park Life puts the spotlight on Aberfoyle Village

CHRISTMAS FEATURE Everything you need to know about what is on in the area, New Year local walk, buying your tree and so much more!

Loch Lomond Shores

Find out what is new and what is happening at Loch Lomond Shores this Christmas.

INTERVIEW WITH Lorraine Kelly

“The people of Forth Valley are so lucky to have such a wonderful place as Strathcarron Hospice.”

Lomond School

Application Deadline January 9th 2015

We are inviting applications for Junior and Senior School for August 2015. Bursaries are available for up to 100% of tuition fees from S1 upwards. For further information and to request an application form, please contact our Admissions department.

lomondschool.com admissions@lomondschool.com 2

| www.parklifescotland.co.uk

To find out more please call

01436 672 476

Endrick Decorators

Endrick Decorators Of Killearn Professional, fully guaranteed, high standard of work carried out by qualified tradesmen. Interior and Exterior • Painting Coving • Paper Hanging • Ames Taping Call Timmy Kearney for a free, no obligation quote. Westerton Farm Cottage, Killearn G63 9LE Email: Endrick.decorators@btinternet.com

We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Tel: 01360 551312 Mobile: 07591 586596 Follow us on

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HSBC

| www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Lorraine Kelly Interview

Thank you to all those who have supported us throughout the year. The magazine has gone from strength to strength with this Christmas edition being another 88 page bumper edition. We bring you all the local Christmas fun, celebrations and competitions galore. Hope you enjoy your read.

P29

P26 & 27

Loch lomond shores

CONTENTS Moon Fashion Show Spotlight on Aberfoyle Coach House Restaurant Review Rob Roy Way Walk Fitness Page Lomond Shores Local Cinema Listings Christmas Events Local Pantos Blane Valley in Review Fintry Inn Recipe Mugdock Country Park Events Local Gift Guide Index Farmers Markets

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers and advertisers!

Katrina, Heather, Lisa & Jennifer Next edition covers Feb-March. Deadline is 12th of January. We have moved! You can find our office at Killearn Mill, Killearn, G63 9LQ. To contact us about advertising or events please call 01360 441006 email katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk

8 10-17 13 17 20 26-27 32 30 -39 39 47 49 66 & 67 73 85 87

COMPETITION

“Like” our facebook page to get many more special offers. Sign up for Parklifedeals. co.uk and we will bring you a local deal every week!

Win a Christmas Tree Sheila Fleet Win a Daisy Necklace Win Panto Tickets at Macroberts Inn at Kippen Competion

Crescent Cabs 07710 800067 24hr Reliable Taxi service

15 24 37 55

Park Life Magazine 2014

Your what’s on guide and advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & surrounding area

FREE Feb / Mar 2014

Your what’s on guide and advertiser for Loch Lomond, The Trossachs & surrounding area

FREE

Apr / May 2014

Interview with the new owners of

Aug / Sept 2014

MULBERRY BUSH MONTESSORI 10K APRIL 27TH Voted the number one 10k in Scotland!

GARDENING & OUTDOORS

Bringing you one local deal a week online! Visit www.parklifedeals.co.uk

STIRLING 2014

PARK LIFE PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON BALFRON

3 Amazing competitions

WIN!

The Inn at Kippen

Park Life Deals

deals

.co.uk

www.

deals

.co.uk

to become a Firefighter?

THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN LOCH LOMOND & THE TROSSACHS

for the Homecoming year 2014

Macroberts Tickets Aquarium Family Pass Go Ape Family Passes Mariposa Hypnotherapy Session

with full list of events

PARK LIFE PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT

BUSINESS BLETHER MONTHLY MEETINGS NOW UP AND RUNNING with Liz Melville

WHERE TO EAT IN LOCH LOMOND & THE TROSSACHS

CHECK OUT OUR DISCOUNTS for Summer 2014!

www.

deals

Oct / Nov 2014

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES

Special Parklife Feature

Weekend of family fun, save the date 28th - 29th June

£100 Voucher for The Paint Shed Virgin Active Family prize package Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium pass

www.

June / July 2014

Blether

BUSINESS

.co.uk

We are delighted to be working with Liz Melville Social Media to bring you a brand new, fun, business networking group in the Park Life area. Since moving to Balfron recently, Liz had become increasingly frustrated by having to travel to Glasgow or Stirling for networking opportunities. Knowing that Katrina had previously run popular business networking for Park Life Magazine, Liz approached her with the idea of starting a new group, for business owners in the local villages and areas surrounding the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. And so Business Blether was born! Based on the name Liz had used for a Twitter networking group she runs every Thursday #SocialBlether – Katrina and Liz felt that a ‘blether’ was just the right word for their new, informal network! Business Blether will be held on the final Thursday of every month, and will alternate between a breakfast time ‘coffee drop-in’ and a more structured lunch or dinner event. Feel free to come along when you can, and network with other local business owners over a coffee or light refreshment – membership is completely FREE! For more details about Business Blether and forthcoming meetings, visit

www.businessblether.co.uk

Social Media and Park Life

PARK LIFE PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON

Drymen, Balmaha and Rowardennan

on Killearn

Book now for Christmas!

LOCAL GUIDE FOR HALLOWEEN and Guy Fawkes nights!

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Business

While you sit round an open fire, with the chestnuts roasting why not do a little bit of Christmas shopping with Park Life Deals and make some incredible savings. Go to www.parklifedeals.co.uk and sign up free today!

Afternoon Tea • Hair & Beauty • Dining Out Whisky Tasting • Paintball • Golf Lessons • Segway Safari P hotography Classes • Luxurious Spa Treatments

deals

Join now to get your weekly deal! www.parklifedeals.co.uk

Merry Christmas for the Park Life Deals Team

IT TECHNICIAN

IN YOUR HOME • CALL OUT SERVICE Call out including first hour £45 • 1/2 hour thereafter £20 Home Computer Repairs • PC & Laptop Wireless Network Installations • ADSL Broadband Setup Virus & Spyware Removal • Email Problems Solved • Introductory Tuition

07949 476 260

HOME CALL OUT 6

| www.parklifescotland.co.uk

FIXED PRICES

NO HIDDEN CHARGES

Business

Stirlingshire Caravans Stirlingshire Caravans

• • • • • •

and Motorhomes

Caravan&repairs & servicing Caravan Motorhome repairs & servicing

BATHROOM TRANSFORMATIONS

Used caravan Sales ACOPS Gas & CITO trained engineers Motorhome habitation certificates (Keep your Warranty Valid!) Motor Movers supplied & fitted Motorhome habitation certificates Window replacement Motor Movers supplied & fitted Caravan Storage Window replacement Full Full Used Caravans Wanted service Caravan Storage service Trade-ins welcome from from

✹ £120 £140

visit our website for more details:

• Equipment Supplied at Trade Prices

www.stirlingshirecaravans.co.uk www.stirlingshirecaravans.co.uk

• Exclusively Managed Installations

The Yard, Sauchenford, Plean, Stirlingshire FK7 8AP

• Respected, Dedicated & Professional Service

Tel 01786 489022 | 07776 438147 stirlingshirecaravans1@gmail.com

Endrick Chauffeur

Affordable, Reliable, Friendly & First Class Service

• Quality Installation • References Available on Request • All Work Guaranteed • Free Survey & Estimate

Ian Walker

private chauffeur 01360 440418 or 077401 48881 iantwalker@hotmail.co.uk

Killearn, Balfron, Fintry, Drymen

01360 771952 07887 711 165

bathroomtransformations@btconnect.com To arrange a free estimate please contact Stephen Melvin

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Fashion show at Buchanan Arms in aid of Strathcarron Hospice On a dark, blustery, rainy Thursday evening in Drymen, two hundred elegant ladies parked their cars, put up their umbrellas and ran to the newly refurbished Clairinch Suite in the Buchanan Arms Hotel. The occasion was the Moon of Drymen in conjunction with Park Life Magazine Fashion Show in aid of Strathcarron Hospice. Umbrellas and raincoats discarded, pink champagne and delicious canapés were served by the lovely staff. The weather was soon forgotten. Katrina from Park Life welcomed everyone with a few words and dedicated the evening to her good friend Laura Leven who had died a few weeks earlier. Laura had been suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and she and her family had benefited greatly over the years from services provided by Strathcarron. Cathy Kelly a nurse of Strathcarron gave a short talk on the work and services the hospice offers. Not only in the Hospice but within patients’ homes and the support they offer to the families.

The Fashion Show began and the very glamorous models were enthusiastically received as they sashayed down the cat walk showing a fabulous array of separates, accessories and dresses. From smart and casual to glamorous and glittery evening and cocktail outfits. All in a good range of sizes and beautifully accessorised from the wide selection of jewellery, scarves and handbags from Moon of Drymen. Mairi Mcginn of Moon introduced the fashions and models throughout the evening and would like to thank all the models for giving up their evening to support a great cause. The evening concluded with exciting bidding for an overnight stay at the 5 star Hilton Glasgow and a fabulous raffle which was drawn by Laura’s mother Eilidh and twin sons Fraser and Ross. The evening was a wonderful success and over £2000 was raised. Thankyou to everyone who contributed, participated and spent lots of money! photography by Paul Saunders

Stylish women’s clothing, accessories and much more, including a wide selection of bags, jewellery, hosiery and scarves.

Moon of Drymen

Gift Vouchers Available Cashmere by Saskia Great Gift ideas Pyjamas from Joules & White Stuff

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers and we would like to thank you for your support since opening earlier this year!

Main Street, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0BG tel: 01360 660523

| www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business T: 01786 473696 E: info@iangallacher.com W: www.iangallacher.com FOLLOW US ON

Leading the way in Diamonds Monday to Saturday 0845 - 1700 7 Murray Place, Stirling FK8 1DQ

Christmas Gift Ideas Wonderland in Balfron has an incredible selection of gifts in stock this year, follow Alice on her facebook page to be kept up to date with new stock arriving. Wonderland

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

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

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

Aberfoyle Holidays Ltd, Viewforth, Main St, Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire FK8 3UG

10 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Spotlight on

Aberfoyle In the mid-nineteenth century Aberfoyle earned the title “Gateway to the Trossachs” because of the hundreds of fans of Sir Walter Scott who came by train in search of the locations and landscapes described in his immensely popular poems and novels. Today, more than 150 years later, people still come to Aberfoyle in huge numbers but for very different reasons. They come now to walk, cycle, ride or jog on the miles of footpaths, tracks and trails that run through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park that surrounds the village. And Aberfoyle welcomes

Business them with free parking for more than 100 cars on the very land where the railway station and goods sidings once stood. To help the visitors make the most of their time in The Trossachs there is a large Tourist Information Centre with books, maps and timetables. To sustain them on their adventures there are cafes, restaurants and pubs, a Deli and a well-stocked supermarket. Internet access and the usual postal services are available in the Post Office Shop and petrol or diesel for the journey home can be obtained at the Community-owned Petrol Station. The largest employer in town is probably the Forestry Commission whose District Offices stand at the eastern edge of the village, while their Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, with its wonderful views and Go-Ape zip wire, sits on the hill just above the village on The Dukes Pass , the road to the Trossachs.

We are an independent butcher cradled in the heart of the Trossachs, in Central Scotland.

We offer a taste of the EXCEPTIONAL…exceptional meat which has texture and flavour rarely experienced nowadays. The Aberfoyle Butcher can supply direct to your kitchen, whether it’s in an exquisite restaurant, hotel, or if you simply appreciate the finest food at home.

Mail order service available 206 Main Street, Aberfoyle FK8 3UQ

T: 01877 382 473

E: contact@aberfoylebutcher.co.uk

Corporate Member

Quality Furnishings Made To Order Loose Covers, Curtains, Headboards, etc

•

Interior Design Service Wallpapers Home Accessories, Gifts Small Antiques Dolls House Food

Quality 2nd Hand Sofas & Chairs: Multiyork; Parker Knoll etc – call for details. Main Street, Aberfoyle (next to the Coach House)

Monday -Saturday : 10am - 4.30pm Tel: 01877 382873 | www.thefabricgallery.co.uk Follow us on

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Business

Tel: 01877 382 191 Main Street Aberfoyle FK8 3UG www.coachhouse-aberfoyle.com

• • • • • • • •

Hot Stone Steakhouse Pizza Grill Burger Menu Gluten Free Menu Featuring Pastas & Pizzas Our Turnberry Trained Chefs, ‘Specialities’ are Vegetarian and Fish Dishes Kids Cinema with Cinema Tray Dogs Welcome

Black Rock Grill is cooking on volcanic rock. No oil or fat is used making it a healthier, tastier option.

Free Wifi MORNING COFFEE AND CAKE 11AM QUICK LUNCHES & LIGHT BITES

12 - 5pm

DINNER & BLACK ROCK SERVICE 5 - 8:30pm DINNER SERVICE TILL 9:30pm FRI & SAT (BOOKINGS) OPEN SEVEN DAYS

Join us on FACEBOOK

12 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

TASTE THE ‘EXPERIENCE’ OF THE BLACK ROCK GRILL

The Black Rocks are superheated to 440˚C, then placed onto our specially designed grill platters. Your choice of meat or fish is placed before you at the table. The stones stay hot enough to cook your meal for 45mins so no rush, ..take your time, eat,chat make merry. New dishes are being added to the Hot Rock Menu all the time including our popular Mixed Grill and the latest addition a Vegetarian layered halloumi and roast vegetable creation.

The Brown Family heads to the Coach House, Aberfoyle. On a beautiful Autumnal afternoon we headed to Aberfoyle, where in the heart of this picturesque village you will find The Coach House. Under new ownership since the summer, we were given a warm welcome from the friendly staff and immediately our daughter Lucy (3) felt at home and headed straight for the in-house ‘mini cinema’ to choose a film. Throughout our meal we were able to observe her munching on the delights of the ‘Cinema Tray’ from the children’s menu, which included a hot dog, ice cream and other cinema goodies. What a fantastic idea! With so many tasty temptations on the menu, we had to give in and share a starter of my all-time

favourite chicken liver pate…served with home-made oatcakes it did not disappoint. Then it was on to mains where Harry (13) tucked into a delicious beef burger, which got the thumbs up from an experienced teenage ‘burger expert’. Hubby just had to have the spicy pizza with the spicy kick just hitting the right note, but it was my fillet steak cooked on the black rock volcanic grill that stole the show. It arrived at the table on a specially designed grill platter where I was able to finish off the cooking to my own preference using no oil or fat making it a healthier, tastier option. It’s a great cooking concept from America and, I am told by the head chef, the only one of its kind this side of Scotland.

To finish off it was the home-made strawberry cheese cake that tickled the taste buds, perfection on a plate, devoured in seconds. With exciting new refurbishment plans for the New Year and great family orientated initiatives, The Coach House is well worth a visit. A very contented Brown Family headed home, with Lucy singing songs from Frozen (her film choice) and Harry thinking he would like to be a famous food connoisseur! Review by Jen Brown

Tel: 01877 382 191 Main Street Aberfoyle FK8 3UG www.coachhouse-aberfoyle.com

• • • • • • • •

Hot Stone Steakhouse Pizza Grill Burger Menu Gluten Free Menu Featuring Pastas & Pizzas Our Turnberry Trained Chefs, ‘Specialities’ are Vegetarian and Fish Dishes

TA OF

Kids Cinema with Cinema Tray Dogs Welcome

Bla vo ma

Free Wifi MORNING COFFEE AND CAKE 11AM QUICK LUNCHES & LIGHT BITES

12 - 5pm

DINNER & BLACK ROCK SERVICE 5 - 8:30pm DINNER SERVICE TILL 9:30pm FRI & SAT (BOOKINGS) OPEN SEVEN DAYS

Ne all lat ve

Join us on FACEBOOK

Th on me sta ..ta

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The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre

Real s a m t s i r Ch trees

Discover th beauty of ree Christmas al trees!

...at The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Dukes Pass, Aberfoyle

Monday 1 to Monday 22 December 10am - 4pm A great day out, collect a real Christmas tree and enjoy a mince pie along with our home baking, teas and coffees in the cafĂŠ. Take part in our festive trail quiz and win a prize! Take part in Christmas activities each weekend on the lead up to Christmas. Visit our website for more info www.forestry.gov.uk/qefp or call 01877 382258

forestry.gov.uk/christmas 14 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Spotlight on Aberfoyle

Microcroft

As you will be reading this during the holiday season, you may be buying or setting up new laptops, tablets or phones - and I hope that’s all going to plan. If, however, you’re reaching the stage of opening the window to see how well these things Frisbee, please stop and give us a call, because we’re celebrating 10 years of computer stress relief in the Trossachs, and are well placed to solve your digital dilemmas! So, if you’re thinking of jumping on a plane to escape the weather (or the family), why not drop your computer in for a check-up while you’re away? Or if you’re trying to order an inflatable Santa and your internet feels like its being piped through treacle, we can pop in and get you un-stuck in no time. And please remember, don’t answer the phone to anyone who says they are phoning from Microsoft or Windows – and please don’t let them control your computer! Stay safe.

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

COMPETITION TIME!

Win a 6 ft Christmas tree from The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre Aberfoyle. To enter visit simply visit: www.parklifescotland.co.uk Winner will be announced on the 16th Dec

| 15

Spotlight on Aberfoyle

Find the perfect gift this Christmas...

Festive Fayre

now being served in our Restaurant

The Scottish Wool Centre | Off Main Street | Aberfoyle | Stirlingshire FK8 3UQ Call us on 01877 382850 or email us: SWC@ewm.co.uk

ABERFOYLE

P H A R M A C Y Free Prescription Delivery To Strathard. Port of Menteith, Gartmore & beyond

NOW ! OPEN

T: 01877 389127

Main Street, Aberfoyle FK8 3UG (next to The Fabric Gallery) E: Aberfoylepharmacy@gmail.com Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm Saturday 9am - 1pm | With longer Seasonal hours

16 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Take a walk on the wild side...

The Rob Roy Way This walk follows the tracks and paths used by Rob Roy MacGregor in the 17th & 18th centuries as he worked fought and lived the life of Scotland’s most notorious outlaw. The paths were also well used by other historical characters throughout the Jacobite uprisings, and the feuds between the local clans.  Sense the history of Scotland as you travel through glens, along rivers & burns and past mountains & lochs. Soak up some of Scotland’s greatest scenery.

Day 1 – Drymen to Aberfolye Starting in the centre of Drymen, your 92 mile hike begins with a single step! The hike takes us through the ancient Loch Ard Forest and through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park before arriving at the quaint village of Aberfoyle. Distance 16km

Day 2 - Aberfoyle to Callander An ascent out of Aberfoyle leads you to open moorland with views over the Menteith Hills. You then descend to picturesque Loch Venachar before the route arrives in the village of Callander, known as the Gateway to the Highlands. Distance 16km

Day 3 - Callander to Strathyre Today’s route is particularly scenic, passing by peaceful lochs and rivers as it winds its way north. It starts with a walk along a disused railway track bed before you follow the shores of Loch Lubnaig, admiring the mountain views all the way to Strathyre. Distance 15km

Day 4 - Strathyre to Killin Departing Strathyre you ascend through an enchanting forest before dipping down to pass the famous Kingshouse Hotel with its Rob Roy Bar. The path then starts to climb, offering magnificent views down to Lochearnhead below. Crossing the disused viaduct to Lochan Lairig Cheile, you then follow the trail to Killin to reach the spectacular Falls of Dochart. Distance 19km

Day 5 - Killin to Ardtalnaig A long steady ascent provides good views and is balanced by an equally long descent to Ardeonaig. You then walk along quiet backroads for 6km before reaching Ardtalnaig for your transfer back to Killin, where you spend a second night. Distance 19km

Day 6 - Ardtalnaig to Aberfeldy A short transfer takes you back to Ardtalnaig so that you can continue hiking where you stopped the previous day. An easy start takes you along a minor road before the trail heads uphill at Acharn. Here you will see the fantastic Falls of Acharn before making you way along the path know as the Queen’s Drive. You continue on through forest to the splendid woodland gorge of the Birks (Falls) of Aberfeldy before descending down into the village. A long but rewarding day! Distance 24km

Day 7 - Aberfeldy to Pitlochry The day starts with a stroll alongside the River Tay as you make your way to Grandtully. You then head off into the forest for an equally enjoyable walk, which takes you down into the pretty town of Pitlochry, famous for its theatre, dam and fish ladder. Pitlochry is also home to the Blair Athol Distillery, well worth a visit to reward yourself with a wee dram as you complete the route! Distance 18km

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Health & Wellbeing

Lets get to the nuts and bolts of your pain! Osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, using touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms. Osteopaths’ patients include the young, older people, manual workers, office professionals, and sports people. Patients seek treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including back pain/ sciatica; postural problems caused by driving or work strain, the pain of arthritis and sports injuries.

Sage Osteopathic Clinic

• • • • •

Experienced osteopathic practitioner, established in Inverclyde 1998. Expert assessment of patients presentations Safe treatment to reduce symptoms (eg pain, stiffness, nerve irritation) by addressing underlying causes Individualised intervention for a diverse range of conditions, throughout the body Full attention of osteopath throughout 40/30 min appointments

Lumsdaine Halls, 13 Balfron Road, Killearn Contact Jonathan on T: 01360 551783 | M: 07971 795970 E: sageosteo@gmail.com

www.sageosteopathicclinic.co.uk

Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy in your own home including acupuncture & treatment for the following; Low back pain • Sports injuries • Whiplash Osteoarthritis • Ligament sprains • Muscle strains Fractures • Tendonitis/repetitive strain injuries Post operative rehabilitation • Vestibular problems

Drop a dress size in just 4 weeks! with Robert Miller@Killearnhealthandfitness Come and experience Robert’s unique approach. Lose weight for a lifetime (not just one diet), get fit, get healthy, reduce unnecessary medication, lift depression, stress, anxiety, or chronic health problems, aches or pains. Whatever your problem, Robert will design a program unique to you.

“Robert shows the way – you get the results” – Dr Mary Mercer

The Organic Spa specialises in Organic skin care and massage therapy specialising in Thai and Ayurvedic techniques to restore balance and harmonise body and face. The products by Eminence are winning awards across the globe.

THE RESULTS ARE OUTSTANDING!

Gift

rs vouche e availabl

Eminence is being used and loved by stars such as Madonna and Jennifer Aniston. Photo-regeneration and micro-current can be used to lift and regenerate the skin in all facials. Private yoga tuition is also available.

Contact Siobhan on 07825 392334 the Organic spa - Blanefield www.yogawithsiobhan.co.uk

18 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Mary was taking 6 medications a day – she is down to 2 (-counting) and feeling younger, healthier and happier than ever. Payment is based on the gift economy (pay what you can afford) but if you don’t lose a size in 4 weeks you’ll get your money back.

Call 01360 551338 for a free consultation today T: 01360 551 338 | M: 07531051185 E: robertmillerhhp@gmail.com www.killearnhealthandfitness.co.uk

In recent years, concerns have been raised that people are consuming too much salt. High levels of sodium in the diet are believed to increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes and may also cause high blood pressure. However, salt is also essential for the human body to function. It is required for blood, sweat, digestive juices and efficient nerve transmission. Beyond that though, salt is now being recognised as having natural healing properties. It is a powerful anti-bacterial agent and is a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine.

For almost 200 years, people in Eastern Europe (Poland and Russia particularly) have been visiting salt mines and natural salt caves to take advantage of the healing properties of salt. Speleotherapy as it is known is still used today to treat a wide range of respiratory and skin conditions. If there are no natural caves or mines nearby, there is still a way to enjoy these health benefits. Halotherapy.

A new halotherapy centre is due to open in Glasgow in early 2015. Salann Halotherapy will be only the second centre of its kind in Scotland and will have two full size treatment rooms, one for up to 12 adults and the other for up to 10 children accompanied by adults. There will also be a third smaller VIP treatment room that can hold two people. The treatment rooms or â&#x20AC;&#x153;salt cavesâ&#x20AC;? will recreate the natural salt cave micro-climate using a special machine called a halogenerator. The machine will grind up sodium chloride crystals into ultra-fine particles and circulates the particles in the atmosphere. These particles, invisible to the naked eye, will penetrate deep into the respiratory system, reducing inflammation and helping to clean out mucus blocking the airways. Through direct contact, the particles will also act upon the skin, reducing redness and swelling and improving skin tone.

The treatment is natural and 100% drug free and is safe for pregnant women and children over 6 months old. Treatable conditions include asthma, bronchitis, hayfever, sinusitis, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and more serious conditions including COPD and cystic fibrosis.

Visit the website www.salann.co.uk for further details or to book a free, no obligation consultation, or call 0330 0010990 to talk to the team.

Readers Offer 3 for 2 Treatment Sessions Code: Park 14

Image supplied by Salt Cave Johannesburg

| 19

Fitness

CLASS

VILLAGE

DAY

Tai Chi

Gargunnock

Thursdays

2pm

01786 860373

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Mondays

12.15pm

07759 182236

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Gartocharn

Thursdays

6pm

07759 182236

Body Control Pilates - Jane Meek

Blanefield

Thursdays

9.45am & 8pm

07759 182236

Zumba - Jane

Strathblane

Saturdays

10am

07968 968944

Zumba - Jane

Strathblane

Tuesdays

9.30am

07968 968944

Zumba - Jane

Killearn

Wednesdays

7.45pm

07968 968944

Siobhan Ashtanga Yoga

Killearn

Tuesdays

7.30pm

07825 392 334

Siobhan Pre natal pregnancy Yoga

Tir Na Nog

Thursdays

10am

07825 392 334

Siobhan Ashtanga Yoga

Killearn

Fridays

9.30am

07825 392 334

Siobhan Mysore yoga class

Killearn

Wednesdays

9.30am-11am

07825 392 334

Dynamic Flow Yoga

Tir Na Nog

Tuesdays

1:30pm-2:45pm

07825 392 334

Pregnancy Yoga

Tir Na Nog

Thursdays

10am-11:15am

07825 392 334

Restorative Yoga for all

Tir Na Nog

Thursdays

12pm -1pm

07825 392 334

Killearn Health & Fitness/Bootcamp

Killearn

Mondays

8pm

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness/Chi-Gong

Killearn

Tuesdays

7am

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness/Meta Fit

Killearn

Wednesdays

9am

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness/Relaxercise

Killearn

Thursdays

10.30am

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness/ Meditation

Killearn

Thursdays

11am

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness /Fight Fit

Killearn

Thursdays

7.30pm

01360 551338

Killearn Health & Fitness/Astanga Yoga Killearn

Fridays

9.30am

01360 551338

Metafit - Janice

Kippen

Mondays

6.45pm

0756 5182259

Young at Heart Gold - Janice

Gargunnock

Tuesdays

11.30am

0756 5182259

Exercise to music - Janice

Gargunnock

Tuesdays

7.30pm

0756 5182259

Metafit - Janice

Kippen

Wednesdays

9.30am

0756 5182259

Young at Heart - Janice

Callander

Wednesdays

12.30pm

0756 5182259

Metafit - Janice

Gargunnock

Thursdays

6.30pm

0756 5182259

Balfron

Mon

8.30pm

07917 541163

Body Revive Dance Central

Balfron

Tue/Thur

10.30am & 8.30pm 07917 541163

Kore Kickboxing

Balfron High School Mon & Thur

Cheerobics

CONTACT

TIME

8pm - 9.30pm

07813 884202

Short local walks (approx 45 minutes) Killearn/ Blanefield Thursdays

2pm

07557 439111

Local walks (aprox an hour)

Various villages

Thursdays

11am

07557 439111

Longer walks (approx 2 hours)

Various villages

Tuesdays

10.30am

07557 439111

Nordic walking and training

Various villages

Wednesdays

1.30pm

07557 439111

Exercise Class (Adults)

Balfron High School Wednesdays

7-8pm

07963 080078 07963 080078

Taekwondo Rainbow

Balfron High School Wednesdays

5-6pm

Taekwondo Juniors

Balfron High School Wednesdays

6-7pm

07963 080078

Balfron High School Wednesdays

8 -9pm

All Abilities welcome

Ladies Netball

TO BE INCLUDED IN OUR FITNESS PAGE PLEASE CONTACT US ON 01360 661317

20 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business

Georgia Boyd Portraits Al

l colo 1/2pr urs ice in F ebrua

Hand drawn portraits for a special Christmas gift. Prices from £75. 10% discount up until xmas. Gift vouchers available for friends and family For more information; Tel: 07720 593078 E: gboyd.portraits@hotmail.com

Don’t Forget your Christmas Appointments! Come and See our Special Christmas Offers We have lots of Luxury Gifts sets for Christmas We also stock GHD straightners.

2 The Galleries, Balloch Rd, Balloch, G83 8SS

Tel/fax 01389 720150 www.mackenziestewarthair.com

w open in Killearn, “Lumsdaine Halls Therapy oms” offers exceptional therapy services on r doorstep, giving you local access to a range of ependent therapeutic specialists. Our services m to compliment the existing NHS provision hin the area.

experienced therapists will treat you in clean and fortable facilities within our three treatment rooms which e been finished to the highest possible standards. We are ted in Killearn next door to “Killearn Pharmacy” on the main d towards Balfron. are able to offer a combination of daytime and evening ointments, private car parking, a spacious waiting area and bled toilet facilities. currently offer Physiotherapy, Foot Health Care, Speech Language Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Hypnotherapy, puncture & Counselling and look forward to expanding hese services in the future. our website (www.lumsdainetherapy.com) to discover e about our current specialists and consultation times. en booking a consultation, contact our therapists directly via il or mobile for a prompt appointment. We can also pass on r details if you prefer by contacting us on 01360 551783. also welcome enquiries from other experienced therapists ing for a professional high quality facility in which to offer r services. Follow us on

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Business

Glasgow 2014 Killearn Drymen Rabbie Burns Bannockburn Mackintosh Architectural GSA ‘The Mack’ GSA Reid Building Other recent work on website..

Look good. Feel great. TRILOGYSALON (formally LMH)

R Rebeka Sinclair Hair Extensions MOBILE HAIR EXTENSION TECHNICIAN T: 07810 060240 FREE CONSULTATION

Hair Salon

Lynne would like to let her clients know that she is now back working 4 days at Trilogy Salon, formally LMH.

10% O ff

ALL h

a in Jan ir colou r uar y 2015

Gift Vouchers Available!

Quote Park Life

11 Main Street, Killearn G63 9RJ. For an appointment please call

01360 551160 or txt 07538 945 650.

Ladies Cutting, Colouring & Styling Hair extensions • Kids Cuts Wedding Hair • Wella Products Treat that special someone to a Trilogy Gift Voucher this Christmas! Prices start from £15

10% off

ALL Ha

ir Co

in Janu louring a Februa ry and r Quote y 2015. Park Life

Trilogy would like to wish their clients old and new, a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

We are now offering Therapeutic Massage with Rosie Brown DSM. Contact the Salon for information & bookings.

11 Main Street, Killearn G63 9RJ | T: 01360 551160 | E: trilogy@hairdresser.net 22 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business NICK NAIRN ALWAYS LOOKS GOOD IN STOCKINGS. What are you putting in your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas stocking this year? How about growing their love of food and cooking with a Nick Nairn Cook School at Port of Menteith gift card? Prices start at just ÂŁ49 and can be easily purchased at nicknairn.com Go on, give the gift that really does keep on giving.

nicknairn.com 01877 389 900

Christmas Gift Ideas Gift cards can be used against classes or in our cook shops. Redeem online, by telephone or in person at our Cook Schools. Valid for 12 months.

Press

Client: Nick Nairn

Doc: 1-00100571 NN Xmas 14 ParkLife (85x137) AW

WC: Xmas 2014

Size: (85)mm x (137)mm

A/C: Name

Publication: Park Life Magazine

Date: 28.10.14

Version: 3

AW: RB

Buy a Portrait Session Voucher for 2015 at a special rate this Christmas + Local Landscape Pictures for Sale as Wall Pictures & Canvasses. Great Christmas Presents - Buy at www.paulsaundersphotography.com

| 23

Win

a Sheila Fleet Daisy Necklace These beautiful, bright Daisies in silver and enamel have been created by wellknown Orkney jewellery designer, Sheila Fleet. The winner of this lovely necklace will hold not only a fine piece of craftmanship but also part of a poignant story. All the Daisies support Sheila’s former employee, Emily Findlay, in her fight against cancer.

All Sheila’s exquisite Daisies contribute to Emily’s Fund at the Orkney Charitable Trust, Sheila first met Emily when www.octrust.co.uk. she began working in her Boutique shop in Kirkwall, To win one of Sheila’s Daisies Orkney. A cheerful 18-year visit www.parklifescotland. old, Emily loved her new co.uk/competitions Saturday job but after only 3 The winner may choose an months she relapsed and was original summer Daisy or forced to stop. a winter Ocean, Shallows, Peacock, Surf or Champagne Sheila decided to help by Coloured Daisy as their prize. creating a special collection of delicate, silver Daisies, Emily’s See our blog for Emily’s story: favourite flower. The first blog.sheilafleet.com/daisiesDaisies with sunshine-yellow for-emily, our website for all centres and waving white the Daisies www.sheilafleet. crystal petals appeared in early com and visit Sheila Fleet summer 2014. A myriad of in Jenners at Loch Lomond Coloured Daisies followed as Shores, Balloch to touch and | www.parklifescotland.co.uk 24 the winter drew in. try on the Daisies.

Sheila Fleet

O R K N E Y

D E S I G N E R

J E W E L L E RY

Win a

Daisy

Pendant above shown in Shallows enamel while Emily wears Ocean.

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

Designed and Made in Orkney, Scotland www.sheilafleet.com

Jenners Loch Lomond Ben Lomond Way Balloch G83 8QL 01389 722 212

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Loch Lomond Shores Events this Christmas! Story-telling with Santa on the Santa Express This year Santa has come out of his grotto and is spending time on his very own train. Why not come along to join Santa and hear one of his special Christmas tales whilst tucked under a cosy blanket on board his train. Each child will receive a sweetie from Santa along with a hot drink and mince pie, and of course the big kids will get a hot drink and mince pie too! Christmas time is for everyone after all. Santa will be on the Story-telling Express every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas from

shop

11am until 5pm. To ride with Santa costs £4.50 per person (Adults & Children). If you would like any further information call Santa’s helpers on 01389 751035.

Lomond Pirates Play Zone & Cafe Lomond Pirates Play Zone & Café is now open within the upper shopping mall with a spectacular pirate themed soft play zone which will be open for daily play sessions and delicious home baking, teas and coffees in their cafe as well as being the new fun kids party place with oodles of entertainment.

eat

December Events Farmers Market 7th Dec 10am Christmas In Bloom 13-14th Dec Christmas silk floral arrangements for sale with all proceeds going to charity. Helensburgh & Lomond Youth Brass band 20th Dec 11am-3pm Farmers Market 21st Dec 10am Clyde Community Orchestra 22nd Dec 2-4pm

January Events Pamela Randall Art Sale & Display 3rd & 4th Jan 10am Mike Belton Art Display 17th & 18th Jan 10am

play

Close to home, far from ordinary The ultimate festive shopping and day trip destination.

Open daily from 9.30am Free parking Balloch G83 8QL 01389 751031

www.lochlomondshores.com 26 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

A magical festive shopping day out awaits you on the stunning banks of Loch Lomond.

Loch Lomond Shores is set to wow visitors again this Christmas with an unrivalled shopping and day trip experience like no other. From top name brands at the prestigious Jenners, a House of Fraser store, independent gift boutiques, a delicious assortment of cafes serving home-baking, teas and coffees with uninterrupted views across the loch to soaking up the scenery and taking part in a wide range of winter outdoor activities, this five star destination has it all.

During December visitors can not only enjoy late night shopping at Jenners until 8pm on Thursdays but they will also be treated to live music on selected dates from orchestras, local brass bands and young Carol Singers. So whether you fancy visiting their exclusive shops and relaxing in one of their superb cafes or restaurant, or you want to wrap up, get active and enjoy the beautiful outdoors at their stunning loch-side setting, there’s something for everyone at Loch Lomond Shores. It’s no wonder they have just introduced the new tag line ‘Close to home, far from ordinary’.

| 27

Deanston Distillery Visitor Centre

28 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Interview with Lorraine Kelly

You do so much work for so many charities, how did you get involved with Strathcarron Hospice?

How would you encourage the general public to get more involved with supporting the Hospice?

I became involved thanks to the force of nature that is Angela Gillies who was working as Fundraising Manager for the Hospice. She invited me to come and see the work being done there and I was so impressed by the sheer joy, love and positivity of Strathcarron. It was a place to come to live, not die, and that was remarkable.

I would urge everyone to do their bit for the Hospice, no matter how much you can contribute, it all helps. The Hospice isn’t funded by the government and needs to raise over £70,000 each week just to keep going. The work they do is so important and makes all the difference to someone needing care and also to their relatives.

What are your favourite fun events to take part in for charity? We have all done such a lot of fun events to raise funds for Strathcarron. The charity ball was always really enjoyable and the Midnight Walk around Stirling is a big highlight, even in the pouring rain. There is such a wonderful team spirit and a real sense of achievement when we cross the finish line.

Strathcarron Ladies Midnight Tiara Walk 20th June 2015 Join a thousand ladies for this sparkling event!

Television presenter Lorraine Kelly, an enthusiastic supporter of the hospice, said “The people of Forth Valley are so lucky to have such a wonderful place as Strathcarron Hospice.”

Lorraine Kelly

To find out more visit www.strathcarronhospice.org or call 01324 826222

Each of the distillery’s expressions, Deanston 12 Year Old, Virgin Oak, and our Distillery Exclusive Editions, have been made onsite using Scottish-grown barley and are known and celebrated for their sweet, fruity tastes with hints of honeyed spiciness. With a range of tours available, budding whisky connoisseurs can enjoy a dram while they learn about everything from the heritage to our distilling techniques; Or if you have a passion for chocolate, why don’t you come to one of our Whisky and Chocolate Tours. Join us in one of our tours, visit our gift shop full of local crafts and whisky or have a

festive treat at our Distillery Cafe, Deanston Distillery is a place for all the family. In January, we will be celebrating Robert Burns, with haggis available from the Coffee Bothy and Deanston whisky, there is not better combination to celebrate our renowned Scottish poet. We are open 7 days a week from 10am until 5pm* *Closed 25th and 26th of December and 1st and 2nd of January. 24th and 31st of December from 10am until 3pm For more information phone 01786 843010 or visit www.deanstonmalt.com

No better time than this Business festive season to come to Deanston Distillery!

| 29

FRESHLY CUT Events

CHRISTMAS TREES DIRECT FROM THE GROWER

Wreaths and stands also available.

BUY A TREE AND CHOOSE FROM ONE OF OUR £10 OFFERS:

FREE

UNDECORATED FRESH WREATH

FREE DELIVERY OF TREE

£10

TO SPEND IN FARM SHOP IN JANUARY

(bring this advert with you or quote ‘ParkLife magazine’.)

HAVE A FUN, FESTIVE DAY OUT FOR ALL THE FAMILY AT EDENMILL FARM. ENJOY A DELICIOUS MEAL AT ‘THE OLD COW SHED’

RESTAURANT OPEN FROM 29TH NOVEMBER TO 24TH DECEMBER.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9-6PM, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 9-5PM

Visit Santa’s Grotto

DON’T FORGET TO ORDER YOUR KELLY BRONZE TURKEYS AND SCRUMPTIOUS STEAK PIES FROM OUR FARM SHOP.

Edenmill Farm, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9AX t: 01360 771707 www.edenmill.co.uk 30 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

nze Tasty Kelly Bro Turkeys

Why buy a Christmas tree from a local grower? When you buy from an independent, locally-owned Christmas tree farm, like Edenmill Farm you are investing in the local economy. It takes approximately 10 years for a tree to grow to its harvestable height, and during this time Edenmill will employ local people to maintain the trees. At Edenmill Farm, they bottom handle trees, which means they remove the branches at the base of the tree to stunt its growth, making it easier to fell and easier for you to place in stands. Trees are fertilised twice a year to make them green and help them to grow. By selecting a Christmas tree from Edenmill, you know exactly when your tree has been harvested. A local grower will start felling their trees around the last week of November/1st week of December compared to a national producer who will need to harvest their trees at the start of November to ensure they reach retail outlets in time.

Edenmill Farm Shop Edenmill Farm is proud to produce high quality, locally sourced meat and poultry products. Edenmill offers a one-stop shop for your Christmas Kelly Bronze Turkeys, New Year steak pie, and delicious Aberdeen Angus beef, venison and pork all year round.

Have an Edenmill Christmas For the best festive, family experience this Christmas, look no further than Edenmill Farm. Open 7 days from 1st December, they have Christmas all wrapped up. Adults can enjoy mulled wine while selecting a Christmas tree, sample mouthwatering festive fayre at the Old Cow Shed Restaurant, and pick up everything “the big festive feast.” Children can visit Santa in his Grotto, have fun on the hay bales in the play area, and meet Santa’s Reindeer and other friendly farm animals!

It has never been easier to shop at Edenmill; you can visit the farm shop (with new product ranges), shop on line or order over the phone (01360 771707). Edenmill butchers are friendly, highly skilled and knowledgeable, and can prepare products to suit your requirements. The Farm shop is open 7 days a week in December, closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day then resumes normal 9am - 5pm Wednesday to Sunday opening hours. Alternatively, they can come to you… Just phone in your order on a Wednesday and your products will be delivered straight to your door on Friday!

Edenmill Farm, Blanefield, Glasgow G63 9AX t: 01360 771707 www.edenmill.co.uk | Follow us on 31

Cinema Listings

❄

Gartmore Community Cinema

www.gartmorevillagehall.co.uk A welcome return to a most popular activity in Gartmore’s social calendar! Annual membership of £10 gives you reduced entry to all films. Members: £2 per film Non-members: £4 per film Children: £2 per film

❄

6 Dec - The Day I Became A Woman 19 Dec [kids - Friday] - Frozen 20 Dec - Miracle on 34th Street 9 Jan 2015 [kids - Friday] - Avengers Assemble 10 Jan 2015 - American Hustle

❄

Mugdock Cinema

Booking essential 0141 956 6100 or book online Cost £3 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk It’s a Wonderful Life (cert U) Mon 1st Dec 7.30pm  Our special Christmas Movie Evening! (with drinks and tasty treats provided by Charlie’s) An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed.

❄

Strathendrcik Film Society www.film-society.org 5 Dec 7.30pm in Balfron High School Theatre. Sunshine on Leith (2013)  100 mins Comedy | Drama | Musical

The Bird Cage (cert 15) Mon 12th Jan 7.30pm  The Bedford Incident (cert PG) Mon 26th Jan 7.30pm

❄

32 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

❄

❄ ❄ ❄

Two Scottish soldiers return from Afghanistan, home to Leith to the warm embrace of their families. With Jane Horrocks and a “soft, vulnerable” Peter Mullan, this is a feel-good musical featuring the Proclaimers’ music with some stirring performances from its young cast. “A jubilant, heartfelt musical about the power of home, the hearth, family and love.”

Business

Christmas Trees Norway Spruce Lodge Pole Pine Nordman Fir

Come and cut your own tree... make it a family day out!

Noble Fir Cut, Rooted or Potted

...Try a “ Duff ” tree this Christmas! S & J Duff & Son, Wester Auchentroig Farm, Buchlyvie, Stirlingshire FK8 3PB OPEN 9am - 6pm throughout December

www.dufftrees.co.uk Tel/Fax: 01360 850404 | Mobile: 07710 579752 | duff@easynet.co.uk

Santa’s Woodland Experience! North Ballochruin Farm, Balfron G63 0LE

Open Daily for Christmas Trees and Decorations, Handmade Wreaths & Table Decorations.

Tel: 07741 539964 or

E: info@santaswoodlandexperience.co.uk www.santaswoodlandexperience.co.uk www.facebook.com/seesanta

T of t ake a t onb he woo our very oard Sa dland n o and wn tra ta’s Book traile ctor ing e r sse ! ntial

| 33

Killearn Kirk

N AR E LL KI

LY INVITES YO WARM UT K R O KI

Registered Charity Number: SC024414

PP O

in Killearn Kirk on 6.00–7.00pm Saturday, 20 December 2014 audience to be seated by 5.45pm in aid of MAGGIE’S CENTRE, Glasgow and KILLEARN KIRK An outstanding hour of Christmas music and entertainment featuring Entry by ticket only, at £8.00 each under 16s free

Drinks by donation

Maggie’s Centres offer free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their families and friends

Robin Versteeg: Organ/Piano Emma Versteeg: Soprano Paul Boutcher: Trumpet

Ticket Sales: Lavinia Drew T: 01360 440544 email: drewinthenorth@hotmail.co.uk

mince pies

Killearn Kirk (Church of Scotland), Balfron Road, Killearn, Glasgow, G63 9NL. Registered Charity Number: SC012140

34 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Christmas Events!

Business

Kippen Christmas Market

Ealain Gallery Drymen

Village Hall Sat 29th Nov 1pm-4pm A large selection of Gift Stalls with Tea/Coffee and home baking

Ladies Christmas Shopping Evening Fri 5th of Dec 6-8pm Enjoy some Christmas Shopping with Fizz, Nibbles and 10% off all purchases on the night. 11 Main Street, Drymen 01360 660996 e. info@ealaingallery.co.uk

Culcreuch Castle Xmas Fayre Sun 30th Nov noon – 4.30pm Free entry/ donations to Strathcarron Hospice. Excellent selection of stalls for Christmas gifts including Rhubarab & Lime, Mhor Bread, Jewellery, Knitwear, Candles, Soaps and so much more! An excellent way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

A Festive Lunch and Christmas floral decoration demonstration by Amanda Clayden- Green Pea Studio

Strathblane Primary & Nursery Christmas Fayre Fri 5th Dec 6.30pm-9pm We look forward to welcoming you for a fun filled festive evening with craft activities & games for the children, a chance for Christmas shopping and an “Audience with Father Christmas”!

Peter Pan A fun filled Christmas panto

Kippen Village Hall, 11th, 12th & 13th December at 7.30pm (matinee on Saturday13th - 2pm)

Tues Dec 2nd 11.45 for 12 noon Port of Menteith Village Hall Tickets in Aid of Port of Menteith Church Restoration cost £20 ,which will include the talk,a glass of wine and lunch. Please ring Sarah Chester 01877 385634 to reserve a place.

Buchanan Primary Xmas Fayre Fri 5th Dec 10am-11.45am Coffee/Cake/Xmas stalls We look forward to see you there and your support is hugely appreciated

TicKeTs: £6 adults, £4 children available from.. Joyce 01786 870620 Ann - 01786 870517

| 35

Christmas Events

Town and Country Designs Christmas Shopping Evening 10% off on the evening Thurs 4th Dec 5-8pm Come along and have a glass of bubbles and home made mince pies while you browse over our fabulous selection of gifts and accessories for Christmas.

Killearn Primary School Christmas Fayre Fri 5th Dec 6-9pm Killearn Village Hall It will be a fabulous family event with a wide variety of craft, jewellery and Christmas stalls and Santa will be in attendance.

Fintry Primary School Christmas Fayre Sat 6th Dec 10am-12noon £1 for adults, kids are free Tearoom serving tea, coffee & selling home baking, kids games, face painting, arts and crafts table, raffle prizes , tombola, and various stalls selling Xmas wreaths, jewellery, Xmas cakes and biscuits. Paintings and painted stones.

Killearn Christmas Market Sat 6th Dec 10am-1pm Large selection of stalls selling gifts and fresh goods. Entertainment from Strathendrick Singers.

36 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

St Andrew’s Kirk Christmas Bazaar 6th Dec 10-3pm

Victoria Halls, Helensburgh This is the final push towards raising the remaining amount required for our New Halls Development which will be in the heart of the town, providing meeting rooms for clubs and societies involving all ages A place of refuge and peace for people just wanting a cup of tea, a chat and a listening ear. Please come and join in, check out the Christmas stalls, enjoy a tasty light lunch, and, to top it all, your ticket entry will automatically go in the free prize draw for a Christmas Hamper worth over £100. Light lunch and refreshments served Adults £1.50 Children 50p

Christmas Bazaar

Aberfoyle Parish Church 5th - 7th Dec Forth Inn Annexe, next to Guyana 10am - 4pm Fri & Sat 1pm -5pm Sun All sorts of treasures, including books, household items, toys, gifts for Christmas.

Drymen Primary School PTA Christmas Fundraiser Join us for a fun-packed festive family fete! Sun 7th Dec 2.30pm-4.30pm Drymen Church Hall Children’s Crafts, Tombolas, Christmas Games Bake sale, Elves Workshop, Ski-Sunday Competition, Adopt a teddy and more.

Strathendrick Singers Come and join us for an evening of

Christmas SONGS Sun 7th Dec 6.30pm for 7pm Gartmore Village Hall £8 adults, £4 children (under 16yrs) Available from gartmore village shop, 01877 382214 Free glass of mulled wine and mince pie!

B Flats Christmas Concert Kilmaronock Millenium Hall Gartocharn Christmas music and old favourites with Festive nibbles Fri 12th Dec 7pm for 7.30pm Adults £6 Children £3 Tickets available from The Village Shop or call Linda 01360 660706 Charity - The National MS Society

Strathendrick Singers Killearn Kirk Fri 12th Dec 7.30pm

GARTMORE GIGS Presents Skerryvore

Sat 13th Dec 7.30pm for 8pm Gartmore Hall Tickets £15 Available form Gatmore Village Shop or online www.wegottickets.com

Kippen Primary School Christmas Concert Featuring a cast of Local Talent Wed 17th Dec 6.15pm Kippen Parish Church Adults £5 Children Free For tickets Call Morna 07968912062 or email parentcouncil@ kippenschool.org.uk

Christmas Events

Balfron Bairns Christmas party

Railton Scott Annual Christmas Cancer Appeal Shopping Fayre

Wed 17th Dec 9.30-11.30am McLintock hall Carols, Christmas craft activities and a visit from Santa. Donations only and all welcome with 0-5 year olds!

A Christmas Concert Killearn Kirk Sat 20th Dec 6pm – 7pm In aid of Maggie’s Centre Glasgow

Fri 6th Feb 7pm Kippen Village Hall Come and play whist in a friendly village atmosphere, bring along a wonderful tea, and help to raise money for this worthy cause. Email Stuart on stuartsthomson@aol.com or phone 01786 870529

Buchlyvie Rural

Meetings are at 7.30pm in Buchlyvie Village Hall and visitors are welcome. 9 th Dec

Christmas Entertainment

Buchlyvie 10k Sat 24th Jan We raise money for local committees ( Buchlyvie Village Hall , Children and Old folks and the Playpark appeal ) and also for Lomond Mountain rescue and Andrew Clark Trust, last year we had 258 runners and we raised £2750

13th Jan

Bill Keeping The Road to Mandalay A trip around Burma Contact: Margaret Sparkes 01360 850492.

2nd Dec 6pm-9pm £5 includes free on-site parking Take the stress out of holiday shopping with an evening showcasing famous Scottish brands and local crafts, fine food and drink.   Children under 16 go free but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Medieval Merriment 7th Dec 12.30pm - 3.30pm Step back in time and join the royal court as they celebrate the festive season. Experience the traditions of a medieval feast and enjoy music, dancing and games as the court are entertained throughout the afternoon. Price: Event included in admission price.

Blane Valley Burns Club

Carols at the Castle

Sat 31st Jan Edmonstone Hall, Blanefield Tickets £17pp Available from Strathblane Library or George Eastcroft 01360770390 3 Course meal/BYOB/Entertainment & Raffle

14th Dec 7pm £15 Adults £10 Children We are delighted to welcome back the Stirling contingent of the National Youth Choir of Scotland. Carols at The Castle will feature traditional carols as well as popular Christmas songs.

Stirling Castle Events www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/festive

Win a family pass to at macrobert!

Grab your boogie shoes and find a spot on that light up dance floor, because this Xmas we guarantee that you will be dancing! Join the Twankey family in the town that Stirling Stella almost forgot - Discotopia. Here lives widow, Marge O’Reen Twankey, owner of the last laundrette in town. Her oldest daughter, Aladdin, is wildly in love with Prince Jasper but can love survive the grease stains and smell of fabric conditioner? Thanks to macrobert, one lucky family can join in the fun by winning a family pass (up to 2 adults and 2 children).

To Enter please visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk/competitions Tickets subject to availability of performance date and time.

| 37

Macrobert macrobert & Barrowland Ballet Presents

A Frozen Charlotte and macrobert co-production

Too Many Penguins? Tue 2 - Sun 28 Dec (Not Mondays) Times Vary

Sat 6 - Sun 21 Dec

25% OFF

(Not Mondays)

10:15AM & 12:30PM £8.50 / £30 Wee Group Saver (4 People)

25% OFF

Illustration: Katy Wilson

£8.50 / £30 Wee Group Saver (4 People)

For ages 0-3

An entertaining delight especially for ages 3-6 WINNER

2012 CRITICS AWARD FOR THEATRE IN SCOTLAND BEST PRODUCTION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

MACROBERT, UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING, FK9 4LA

01786 466666 | WWW.MACROBERT.ORG 38 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

It’s Panto Time... ...Oh yes it is!

Business Kippen

Peter Pan 11,12,13th December Kippen Village Hall 7.30pm (Sat Matinee 2pm) For Tickets call; Joyce 01786 870620 Ann 01786 870517

Principal girl ‘Heidi’ and her dog ‘Kodak’

Drymen

‘Frankenstein - the Panto’ Written by David Swan. 3rd-6th Dec with a Sat Matinee Village Hall The show is perhaps best described as it was some years ago by the Glasgow Herald theatre critic: “Inspired mayhem… Frankenstein the Panto is pure dead brilliant with knobs on! The script is a marvellous gatherup of cinematic genre, where Dracula, Frankenstein and some St Trinians type schoolgirls come together in a series of hectically daft encounters. There’s some wonderfully awful jokes and some crackingly clever ones and lots of audience participation. It works because it has no pretentions other than to make everyone enjoy themselves” Tickets from the Library in Drymen

Macrobert Theatre

Aladdin

26 Nov – 4 Jan A brand new panto written by Johnny McKnight. Grab your boogie shoes because this Christmas we guarantee that you should be dancing. The Twankey family live in the town that Stirling Stella almost forgot - Discotopia. Here lives Widow Marge O’Reen Twankey owner of the last laundrette in town. Her oldest daughter, Aladdin, is wildly in love with Prince Jasper but can love survive the grease stains and smell of fabric conditioner? Tickets are on sale now - to book call 01786 466666 / book online at www.macrobert.org

Mugdock Country Park It’s Panto time!

Beauty and the Beast

Fintry

Performances at 2pm and 4pm on 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 Dec.

Menzies Hall Fintry 27-29 Nov and 4-6 December.

Performances (for school groups) at 10am and 1.30pm on 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18 and 19 Dec.

Ticket details will be put on our website www.FintryDrama.org.uk and on our FINTRY AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY facebook page.

Performances at 6.30pm on 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23 and 24 Dec. Cost £10/adult and £6/child. Follow us on 0141 Booking essential 956 6100.| 39

Cinderella

Business

Join us every Saturday at Balfron High School Call Mark on 01389 386117 or 07715 301841 Web: www.razzamataz.co.uk email: balfron@razzamataz.co.uk

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

SAVE 50%! Terms & conditions: This voucher entitles a maximum of 6 people to 50% off the standard individual entry at Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium. Valid until 30/09/14. This voucher is not valid with any other offer. REF:PARKLIFE2014

Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, G83 8QL

For more information:

sealife.co.uk/loch-lomond 40 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

SCOTLANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST SHARK COLLECTION

within the heart of the village. Our little people therefore have many opportunities for local trips and outings....Journeying into Killearn Glen is a favourite! We have newly introduced named co-ordinators leading weekly classes in Yoga, Music, Outdoor Play, Baby Massage, Gymnastic and Gardening. The very much in demand and busy Out of School Club is somewhere

for older school children to create, chill or even do some “ Dreaded” homework. We would be delighted to meet with you, to show you some more of what we do, Come visit, have a good look around our happy nursery, meet with our team and discover what a nursery day means. Thank You, Gabi & Fiona.

Business

At Heron House we have a team of fully qualified early childcare professionals who are enthusiastic about your child’s experiences and opportunities. Nursery offers family friendly, flexible childcare, where children / babies are secure and happy within a loving and kind environment. Heron House educators are motivated and happy which promotes a positive atmosphere, encouraging learning and enabling children to reach their full potential. Our nursery is beautifully set

• • • • • • • • • •

Beech Drive, Killearn G63 9SD t: 01360 550 162 e: heronhousekillearn@gmail.com

Bab

y pla ces Nurturing environment avai lable Encouraging active learning Promoting positive attitudes Supporting health and well-being After school facility (18 places) Learning through play 100% qualified passionate team Term Time/flexible places available Daily walks for babies am/pm Regis Solid local partnerships t now f er o 959 Crookston Road, Glasgow G53 7DT 2015 r t: 0141 810 5777 e: heronhousecrookston@gmail.com

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The Glasgow Academy

LEARNING WITHOUT LIMITS The Glasgow Academy is closer than you think

The best way to experience the atmosphere of our unique school is to see it for yourself. Contact us to arrange a visit or ask about our taster days.

0141 955 0874 | www.tgamilngavie.org.uk

42 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Free door to door bus service

Mugdock Road Milngavie G62 8NP

Giving your child the opportunity to achieve! At The Glasgow Academy Milngavie the difference is clear. You get all the benefits of The Glasgow Academy at your convenience in a unique woodland setting. We can even give parents a helping hand with our door-to-door free bus service. The Glasgow Academy Milngavie provides first-class education for boys and girls from Nursery (age 3) through to the beginning of Primary 5 when pupils move on to our Kelvinbridge campus in the West End of Glasgow. Although situated just two minutes from Milngavie town centre, the school has a country feel to it. Individual attention in small classes makes it the perfect choice for parents of children who want independent school excellence on their doorstep.

We strive to nurture our young people, enabling them to develop confidence and a spirit of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;can do, will doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. We have high expectations and encourage them to work hard and to be the very best they can be. They grow into articulate and wellrounded individuals - and key to that are the exceptional range of activities, inspiring teachers, individual attention, smaller classes and support that they enjoy at The Academy. The best way to experience the atmosphere of our unique school is to see it for yourself. Contact us to arrange a visit or ask about our taster days. 0141 955 0874 www.tgamilngavie.org.uk The Glasgow Academy, Mugdock Road, Milngavie, G62 8N.

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Kids

Life Changing Approach to Dyslexia

Cellfield is a unique approach to help people overcome dyslexia and other language processing difficulties. Based in Stirling, Cellfield was introduced to the UK five years ago

44 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

by former teacher and Headteacher, Fiona Macdiarmid who also runs Stirlingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful Kip McGrath Education Centre. Fiona travelled to New Zealand for training because she believed passionately that Cellfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique brain plasticity approach would help students break through the barrier to their learning caused by dyslexia and similar processing issues. Fionaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faith in Cellfield has paid off as many people have benefitted from the programme and there are now 5 additional Cellfield centres around the UK. Cellfield is a multi sensory computer based programme which develops and strengthens the areas in the brain used by good readers. After only 2 weeks clients gain on average 2

years in their reading age. However, the benefits of Cellfield extend beyond reading and can be life changing as the positive impact of the programme results in improved confidence and self esteem, helping Cellfield clients towards achieving their potential. Contact Cellfield on 01786 447527 or visit the website www.cellfielduk.com

Where to Eat

Cu l c•r e u• c h Castle COUNTRY ESTATE

HOTEL

WEDDING VENUE

Festive Season at the Castle

Come and relax over the festive period by one of our roaring fires. Walk on the estate in beautiful winter surroundings and come in to warm yourself by the log burning stove with perhaps a small glass of mulled wine or chef’s own eggnog. You can enjoy the informal setting of our 700 year old Dungeon Diner for lunch or dinner and choose from either our Christmas menu or our full bar menu.

For a small supplement enhance your experience by booking a candlelit dinner in our oak panelled Dining Room with its cosy open fire from Wednesday to Sunday. The evening will start with chef’s canapés and a glass of prosecco in the Drawing Room while you peruse the menu. A wee warming shot of homemade soup will be served at your table along with our artisan bread. After a superb dinner you can either stay at your table or retire to the Drawing Room with coffee and a warm mince pie. Please call us for details and booking.

www.culcreuch.com | info@culcreuch.com | 01360 860555 | Culcreuch Castle Hotel & Estate, Fintry G63 0LW

✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱

BUCHLYVIEfPOTTERY SHOP AND COFFEE KILN

✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱✱

Come and enjoy a feast of edible goodies while doing some xmas shopping from our extensive range of unique gifts... large and small.

10% OFF all food and drink in the month of December! Just mention Park Life magazine!

Buchlyvie Pottery Shop and Coffee Kiln

Have a look at their new website which has a vast selection of pottery gifts! www.buchlyviepotteryshop.co.uk

Open till 7pm for Pizzas & Pottery, Fridays & Saturdays! Main Street, Buchlyvie, Stirlingshire FK8 3LP. Tel: 01360 850405 | www.buchlyviepotteryshop.com

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Business

Self-Catering Cottages in Scotland • Castle, Cottage or Lochside accommodation • Self Catering properties in beautiful locations • Each has its own individual Scottish charm • Dog friendly properties • Groups, bikers, walkers, cyclists all very welcome • Mobile friendly website, book and pay online Independent agent, based in LLTNP, looking to recruit holiday properties in Scotland. If you would like to list your property (free of charge), please contact us below.

Wishing all our owners and guests best wishes for Christmas and 2015!

T: 01877 384331 or 07879 853139 | www.coopercottages.com

46 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Congratulations!

to John and Susan Martin from Poppies Hotel & Restaurant in Callander

Winners of The Good Hotel Guide 2015 Editors Choice Award Well done from the Park Life team!

Blane Valley Inn... A Gastro Pub Delight! Wonderfully delicious, Dining and Drinking experience at The Blane Valley Inn, Blanefield, is what you will find upon entering. Set within a beautiful rural background, we were made to feel welcome in the newly completed refurbished Inn, by its new owner Jamie Wray. My friend Heather and I were treated to a Gastro Pub Delight....I was swayed by the Melt In your mouth Hand Battered Fillet of Haddock, with handmade rustic style thick chips, served with a modern twist reflecting past times. Heather was tempted by the wafting aroma coming from the In-house Smokery and chose ‘The BV Burger’, topped with home smoked Applewood cheese and home smoked Bacon. We would highly reccommend both meals and look forward to our next visit this time bringing our families to sample more of the Blane Valley Inn’s, top quality hospitality.

Their young and talented chef Cara Roberts, took the time, to come and talk to us about the menu, and we were delighted to find out that Cara creates all the meals using all fresh ingredients, and uses the InHouse smokery to prepare freshly smoked fish, meats and cheeses . Also they have designed a host of daily specials including a daily Senior Citizens Lunch, also every Thursday Two Main Meals & a Bottle of Wine

for just £19.99. Their is also plenty of entertainment on offer with a Quiz night on a Thursday and also Live Music. Or if you are looking to host a private function the Blane Valley Inn can provide this, and can seat up to 30 people. They will also be open on Christmas Day and are now taking bookings, for then, and the Christmas Menu is now available to look at.

| 47

THE OAK TREE INN

Business

Muddy Boots Welcome Special Offers Visit our website and sign up for a newsletter to receive special offers. Currently all of our rooms are half price until just before Christmas (see website for full terms).

Christmas at The Oak Tree Our Festive menu is available from 1st to 24th December. We also have Christmas gifts and vouchers for sale. See website for more details

New Year at The Oak Tree See in the new year at The Oak Tree, book our Hogmanay â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bubbly at the Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accommodation and dinner package. Call for more details.

St Mocha Coffee Shop Keep warm this winter at St Mocha with artisan roasted coffee and speciality teas. We also offer home baking and have a lunch time menu that includes stone based pizzas.

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

www.theoaktreeinn.co.uk

48 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk @oaktreebalmaha

Facebook.com/theoaktreeinn

Pear Tarte Tatin or upside down tart

FINTRY I

Business

THE

12 NOON TILL MIDNIGHT MONDAY - SATURDAY SUNDAY 12.30 PM TILL MIDNIGHT Closed between 3pm & 5pm Mon -Thurs.

FOOD SERVED FROM 12PM TILL 8.30PM FRESH FOOD PREPARED USING LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS WHERE POSSIBLE BEER GARDEN / REAL ALE

* Now Taking Chrismas Bookings * “...an uncut gem, offering everything from a country pub...” Joanna Blythman

You can use apples or pears for this recipe. I prefer pears straight from the garden. The best pears for this dish are Comice, they are firm when ripe and hold their shape when cooked. The also grow well in Scotland.

Serves 4 2 large pears (or 4 small) 140g butter 140g caser sugar 1 star anise 1 vanilla pod 1 cardamom pod ½ cinnamon stick Splash of brandy (optional) 300g butter puff pastry

Method 1. Peel and half the pears length ways and using a tea spoon remove the core. 2. In a thick based pot add the sugar, butter and all spices and gently heat until it starts to colour. 3. Add pears, carefully, with the rounded side down. 4. When the pears have a little colour and the caramel is the colour of toffee. Add a splash of brandy sauce remove from heat. 5. Carefully remove pears and place them round side down into 10 cm individual tart pans, if you don’t have these, space them out on a tray allowing 4cm between each one. 6. Spoon 3 table spoon s of the caramel over the pears, set aside to cool. 7. Divide the pastry into 4, roll into as best a circle as possible with a

Main Street Fintry Tel: 01360 860224

diameter of 12cm. 8. When pears are cool wrap the pastry over the top and gently tuck down the sides. It should still look circular rather than taking on the pear shape too much. Make a small hole in the middle of pastry with a skewer, this will allow steam to escape and help crisp it up. 9. Place in oven at 200C / fan180C /gas 6 10. Cook for 10-12 min or until pastry is golden brown, let rest for 5 min and carefully turn out. I you are looking for extra sauce, simply add a splash of cream to pot with excess caramel, bring to boil and drizzle on plate. Serve with a generous scoop of ice cream, I use Katy Rodgers Original Ice cream, and she also does a Christmas pudding flavour.

Recipe supplied by Fintry Inn

| 49

Three Sisters Bake

50 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Scots Sisters, Gillian, Nichola and Linsey Reith, recently celebrated three years in business with the launch of their third café, Three Sisters Bake, in Killearn, on Wednesday 5 November 2014. Their third café venture, situated in Killearn Village Hall, adds to the sisters’ growing food business, which includes two cafes, a food truck, and an outside catering business. Their cookbook, ‘Three Sisters Bake: Delectable Recipes for Everyday’, was published by Hardie Grant in March 2014. Their Killearn café will offer Three Sisters Bake’s signature style of cooking and eating - breakfast treats, quiches, homemade soups, sandwiches, colourful salads and mouth-watering cakes, scones and traybakes all freshly baked on the premises. The café is open seven days for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea and is licensed. The sisters take great pride in cooking from scratch and source the majority of their ingredients from Scottish suppliers, including coffee from Glasgow based roaster, Dear Green and free range eggs from Corrie Mains Farm in Ayreshire. They will also be supplied by a couple of very local businesses, with meats from Edenmill Farm and beer from Kippen based, Fallen Brewery. Before launching Three Sisters Bake, Gillian, Linsey and Nichola Reith spent years cooking and tasting their way around the

world, the Reith sisters have worked in a variety of eateries, yachts and ski-chalets fine-tuning their culinary skills. Their love affair with food is also hereditary, with a home economics teacher for a mother and with

grandparents who owned a sweetie shop they had baking in the blood. Gillian Reith, Three Sisters Bake, said: “As well as being one of the most beautiful villages in the vicinity of Glasgow city centre, Killearn is very similar to Quarriers Village it is a real destination café. The building has recently undergone a multi million pound renovation, with a stunning, glass architect designed extension being added, which will house our café space. Local people have put so much effort into restoring and developing the village hall, allowing it to become a thriving community hub. We very much look forward to becoming an active part of this community.” Bernard Sheridan, Business Gateway advisor for Three Sisters Bake, said: “Working with Gillian, Nichola and Linsey and contributing to their business development has been very rewarding. Their complimentary skills have made their Quarriers venue a huge success, attracting customers from all over – including from my neck of the woods Bearsden and Milngavie. Speaking as their Business Gateway Adviser, I am confident that the Killearn Village Hall location is a great opportunity that makes perfect business sense and, speaking as a Milngavie resident, I am delighted to have them on my doorstep in Killearn and FollowI wish us onthem | 51 the very best.”

TownBusiness & Country Designs & Coffee Shop If you haven’t the opportunity to pop into Town & Country Designs & Coffee Shop for a while why not take a look at the fabulous gifts and accessories we have for Christmas. Our gift shop packed with luxury

candles, picture frames, Christmas decorations and accessories provides a backdrop of visual delights to capture your attention while you sip your way through a cafetiere of rich, full bodied coffee and enjoy a piece of delicious Homemade cake.

Huge range of gifts under £10

52 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Then take a trip down to Panik Gallery where we have our SALE shop open every weekend 12 -4 pm, an Aladdin’s cave of fabulous fabric pieces, lamps & interior accessories all at a great discounted price.

Business TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS

AC C E S S O R I E S • C A R D S • C O F F E E S H O P

FABRICS • WALLPAPER • LIGHTING • FURNITURE 16 BALFRON ROAD, KILLEARN, G33 9NJ • T: 01360 Follow us on 550830 | 53

Business Make your Christmas

a magical one

with a visit to The house of Darrach. Step into an Aladdin’s Cave filled with inspirational ideas for the home, garden and leisurely living. Browse through our exquisite range of ladies clothing, an impressive fine foods selection and our spectacular gift section bursting full of ideas for everyone. Why not indulge yourself in our 5 star Coffee Shop where you will find fresh, new ideas, tempting festive treats and expert advice from our dedicated staff. Whether you are looking for some festive inspiration or some retail therapy then The House of Darrach is the place to be. We hope to see you soon!

The house of

Darrach homeware • fashion • gifTs resTauranT • carvery coffee shop • picTure gallery

“Making the countryside fashionable” The House of Darrach, Gartocharn Village, Loch Lomond G83 8RX Tel: 01389 830448

Visit| www.parklifescotland.co.uk our website online at 54

www.houseofdarrach.co.uk or find us on facebook

Where to Eat O every dpaen the festiyvover season e

COMPETITION! Win a three course dinner for two and a nights stay and breakfast at the Inn at Kippen! To be used in Feb or March (not school holidays or valentines day).

To enter visit www.parklifescotland.co.uk

| 55

Food & Drink

Punjabi cooking kits and cookery school www.scotiaspice.co.uk T: 01360 449399

Bar Siena

Newly opened authentic Italian restaurant Denise and Mark welcome you to their Bistro where all food is freshly prepared to order. Come along for your night out in front of a warm fire with excellent food and wine! Festive bookings now also being taken for the conservatory. The Square, Drymen G63 0BJ | Tel 01360 660458 E chianticaterers@gmail.com

56 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business

MICHAEL HOMFRAY LAND SURVEYS

Topographic Surveys Computer Aided Drawings Boundary Checks Setting Out New Developments

25 years experience Hill of Balgair, Balfron For FREE quotes & advice, call

01360 860729 or 07977 135289

www.michaelhomfraylandlandsurveyor.co.uk

MORRIS ARCHITECTS

ROWAN HOUSE, 4 CASTLE GARDENS BALLIKINRAIN, BALFRON, G63 0LT TEL 01360 441 075 MOB 07866 426 746 EMAIL morris.architects@btinternet.com

| 57

Business

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

Web Design & Development Wordpress Site Specialist

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

S.E.O & Copywriting

Contact Stuart McDonagh FCA for a free initial consultation

Social Media Integration

SYKAM & Co, Chartered Accountants, Balfron

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

One to One Friendly Jargon-free Computer Training for beginners. Computer tuition in your own home on your own computer or tablet! In Your Place At Your Pace Training available for: Home users and small businesses Got a new tablet? Help is right here! Gift Vouchers Available For a quote call Gail on 07930 527051 Email: gail@geminisolutionz.co.uk facebook.com/geminisolutionz

58 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Web Hosting & Domain Names

01360 661 028 info@apricotstudios.com

http://www.apricotstudios.com

Business

Is Equity Release right for you? Are you over age 55 and “asset rich but cash poor”? Do you have an interest only mortgage & worried about paying back the outstanding mortgage? Have you considered unlocking capital from your property? Equity Release allows you to free up cash from the value of your Equity Release will allow you to remain in your home & home without the stress of having to sell up & move. release cash to use for whatever purpose you want. With equity release you:

• have the flexibility to receive a tax-free cash lump sum. • will not have to move home. • can pay off existing mortgage/secured borrowing.

• can use the cash for whatever you wish. • also have the option to guarantee an inheritance for your family. • can top up your pension/savings income.

We provide independent, expert advice on how to free up equity in your house.

Call us today for a FREE personal consultation or visit our website Vision Equity Release, 21 Moffat Avenue, Carronshore, Falkirk, FK2 8TB T/F: 01324 559 976 E: info@visionfinancial.co.uk W: www.visionequityrelease.co.uk

Vision Equity Release is a trading name of Vision Lifestyle Financial Planning Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in Scotland, Registered No. SC392478. Registered address, 21 Moffat Avenue, Carronshore, Falkirk, FK2 8TB. This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. A fee may be payable for Equity Release Advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances, but we estimate it to be £499. Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate, state benefits may be affected and other fees may apply.

| 59

Gardening & Outdoors

Beautifully Benview For something a little different this year, make sure you visit our Christmas gift shop. From gifts for the keen gardener to presents for your pet, you are sure to find something for everyone.

Naturally Benview Bring the scent of the forest to your home this Christmas. From local grown Christmas trees and table decorations to door rings and holly wreaths, enjoy this festive season – naturally. All available to pre order and free local delivery, subject to availability.

Locally Benview We like to support local producers in our Farm Shop whenever we can so if you are thinking of a hamper then look no further. With our great choice of products we are sure you will find something to suit everyone’s taste. Choose from our ready-made hampers or we will be more than happy to make up a hamper to your requirements.

Delivering Christmas - Naturally! Make your Christmas taste buds tingle! Pop in today to pre-order your: • local produce Christmas Hampers • fresh turkeys • delicious chutneys and cheese Or why not decorate your home the natural way with: • real Christmas trees • made to order door rings and wreaths • stunning winter hanging baskets FREE HOME DELIVERY ON ALL CHRISTMAS TREES

Benview Garden Centre At the Ward Toll Balfron Station G63 0QZ Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 9.30am - 4.30pm Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm

01360 850525

benviewgardencentre.co.uk

Garden Design & Construction Bespoke Garden Buildings

www.moorparkhc.co.uk info@moorparkhc.co.uk t: 01786 841788 m: 07773 809345 60 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Scotia Gardens

• • • •

Landscaping Drainage & Construction Lawncare & Turfing Fencing & Decking

• • • •

Foundation excavation & 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.

| 61

Gardening & Outdoors

John Currie BR ICK & STONEWOR K

Tr aditional Stonework and PavingSkills Specialist

LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION LTD

For Your Home & Garden

From initial consultation a nd full colour design to complete garden build... all u nder one roof!

Stone Walling & Traditional Brickwork Natural Indian & York Stone Paving Specialist • Bespoke Stone Walling & Tr aditional Brickwork Barn & Property Renovation Features • StepsPaving Dry Stone&Walling & Paths Natural Indian York Stone Specialist Lime Mortar Work &Renovation Repointing • Barn & Property • Fireplaces Patios Bespoke & Slabbing Features General Building & Property Maintenance Dry Stone walling Lime Mortar Work & Repointing CALL TODAY FOR FREE ADVICE & QUOTATION Steps & paths T: 01360 550087 M: 07966 864811 Patios & Slabbing E: johncurrie@hotmail.com Fireplaces

General Building & Property Maintenance

STUMPZ

call today for free advice & quotation TREE & GARDEN MANAGEMENT Telephone 01360 550087 Mobile 07966 864811 Tree Stump Removal Splitting ü ü Wood Email johncurrie@hotmail.com Tree Surveys & Inspections Tree Hazard Management ü ü

Full design package Stone work Timber work Garden features Artificial lawns supplied & laid Turf supplied & laid Drainage

Crown Lifting & Reduction ü Hedge Work ü ü Tree Felling ü Sectional Tree Dismantling

01786 841 719 / 01877 331 881 www.cruachanlandscaping.co.uk

ü Working at Height ü Dead Branch Removal Site & Garden Clearance ü Leaf removal ü

DUMFOYN, ENDRICK ROAD KILLEARN, GLASGOW G63 9QD M: 07779 69 47 90 T: 01360 55 00 55 E: vic@stumpz.co.uk

www.stumpz.co.uk

Registered Member FIRST AID QUALIFIED

re when|responding to adverts www.parklifescotland.co.uk 62

Gardening & Outdoors

Come and view our vast range of products!

ALLANDER

AGGREGATES LTD

DECORATIVE STONE, GRAVEL & SAND for all your landscaping & building needs

Unit 11 Cloberfield, Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 7LN

Tel: 0141 956 4583

Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9am-2pm Email: allander.aggregates@btconnect.com www.allanderaggregates.co.uk

Firewood & Rocksalt Decorative Gravels • Building Sand • Sharp Sand Kiln Dried Sand • Red Granite Sand • Top Soil/Compost • Bark/Composting Bark Feature & Rockery Stones • Cement/Postcrete • Type1/Ballast/Whin Dust Fencing Material/Panels • Garden Sheds/Gazebos • Walling Stone Paving/Driveways • Membrane/Terram • Drainage channels & pipe • Cold Tar

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

www.craigtreecare.co.uk Follow us on

| 63

Leisure

FINTRY SPORTS CLUB

Christmas Lunches - 15th-19th Dec Friday evening special dining night,

booking essential!

Teas,Coffees,Scones and Cakes served all day

Quality food at reasonable prices.

Try our Refurbished Fitness Room & lose some Christmas Pudding! A charity providing sports and recreation facilities in West Stirling. SC001505

Tel: 01360 860205 64 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

www.fintrysportsclub.co.uk

Sir Walter Scott

BACK BY Winter POPULAR NDecial Experiencefor Sp MA DEA Grou

ps this Winter

Sailing at 1pm from Trossachs Pier Saturdays 6, 13, 20 December Sundays 7, 14, 21 December ce fo A Sp e c i a l E x p e r i e n

r E ve r y o n e

Santa will spend some time with each child and give them a wrapped gift, whilst the adults enjoy the wintery wonderland of Loch Katrine with a glass of mulled wine and a festive mince pie for just £4.00.

t o E n j oy !

Adults - £10.50 Children under 16 - £6.50 Children under 5 - £2.50 Family ticket - £32.00

Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, by Callander, Stirling FK17 8HZ Tel: 01877 376315/6 • Email: enquiries@lochkatrine.com Follow us on

| 65 WWW.COM

BUCHANAN

CASTLE GOLF CLUB ALL WEATHER FLOODLIT DRIVING RANGE & PRO SHOP

Booking essential 0141 956 6586. Making RagRugs Tues 2 Dec 1pm - 3pm  The art of transforming old unwanted fabric into beautiful textile art items and rugs. Learn the traditional craft techniques of ‘hooky’ and ‘proddy’ to get creative with recycling. All materials and tools supplied. Cost £25. Booking essential on 0744 343 7475 or email margo@ margow.f9.co.uk

Marvellous Meteors, Mugdock No Children Required! Fri 12 Dec 7.30pm – 9.30pm   Search the December skies with the ranger for a great natural firework display, the Geminid Meteor Shower. Event suitable for age 16 and over , £1.50.

Christmas Birch Wreaths, Lenzie

Winter Coaching Package Unlimited lessons from 1st Nov to 31st March

Members £150 Non Members £170

Sat 13th Dec 2pm – 3.30pm  Use the invading birch trees from Lenzie Moss LNR to make your own wreath. Follow the signs from the moss end of Lenzie railway station car park to meet the ranger on the boardwalk. Free.

Build your swing for the 2015 Season

Mugdock Nature Club – No Parents Required!

Junior Golf Classes please call for details

Sun 14th Dec 1.45pm – 4pm Wee river raft race. Sun 25th Jan 1.45pm – 4pm What’s that tree called? Ranger led activities for 8-12 year olds. Cost £1.

Gift Vouchers available

2015 Membership packages available Buchanan Castle Estate, Drymen G63 OHY www.buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk

Tel: 01360 660330 Buchanan Castle Pro Shop E: proshop@buchanancastlegolfclub.co.uk 66 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Santa Dash. Sun 14th Dec  Kick off your Christmas celebrations and raise vital funds for Deafblind Scotland by taking part in our Santa Dash on 7th December. Adults receive a Santa Suit and under 12’s reindeer antlers and flashing red nose. To register for the 5k or 1k run, please visit www.deafblindscotland. org/fundraising/santa-dash

Try Conservation Volunteering, Mugdock Sat 3rd Jan and Mon 5th Jan 10am – 12.30pm  Ranger led hands-on task to benefit Mugdock’s green places. Free. 16 , no experience necessary.

Exploring Batik Sat 17th Jan 10am - 4pm   Through demonstration and practical exercises have fun with batik processes using wax and dyes, work on silk, cotton and paper to produce various vibrant and unique pieces of batik art. Suitable for age 16 . Cost £20. For info and booking, call Elizabeth on 0141 942 6051 or email elizabeth_souter@hotmail.com

Family Theatre, Tam O’Shanter’s Bairns

£13.50. Booking essential on 0141 956 6100 or book online.

Sat 24th / Sun 25th Jan 11am – 12pm  An enchanting tale that will draw you into the world of Tam O’Shanter and his resourceful Bairns, Fiona and Iain! The witches are desperate to get their hands on Meg’s tail but the bairns are equally determined to return it to Meg. Join them as together they embark on an exciting journey, facing dangers and obstacles that threaten to ruin the bairns’ plans. stop them. Will they succeed? There is only one way to find out! A charming tale retold beautifully for our young audience to enjoy. Brought to you by Fizzgig Entertainment. Cost £5/£7. Booking essential 0141 956 6100 or book online.

Friday Night Live at Charlie’s - The Hume Saxophone Quartet Fri 30th Jan 8pm  Still buzzing from the Edinburgh Fringe and the band’s recent tour, band leader Jon Ritchie brings along four members of the well-known ‘Swing Sensation’ to entertain our Charlie’s audience. Enjoy a great night of humour and great music from this Saxophone Quartet. Not to be missed! Tickets £10 (£8 for Keyring Members). Booking Essential 0141 956 6115, by email fnliveconcert@gmail.com) or direct from Charlie’s Theatre Bar.

Mugdock Country Park

Mugdock Theatre, Cream Buns and Burns

It’s Panto time!

Sat 24th / Sun 25th Jan 2pm – 4pm Meet in Charlies Café Bar for a cream tea, then join Fizzgig in the theatre for a humerous romp through the imagination of Rabbie Burns! Meet characters like Tam O’ Shanter, Holy Wullie and more than a few lassies! This lively hour long performance with poems and songs does contain some mild adult humour. A great Christmas gift!

Performances at 2pm and 4pm on 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 Dec.

Beauty and the Beast Performances (for school groups) at 10am and 1.30pm on 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18 and 19 Dec. Performances at 6.30pm on 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23 and 24 Dec. Cost £10/adult and £6/child. Booking essential 0141 956 6100.

Craft Workshops

Gift Vouchers for Christmas!

Birthday Parties

Intro to Green woodworking: Fri 23rd Jan, Sat 7th Feb Love Spoon Carving: 24th/25th Jan Spoon Carving: Sun 15th March Make a Garden bench for two: Sat 28th March Family Bushcraft Experience: Sun 25th Jan, Fri 13th Feb

Merry Christmas!

Gift Vouchers for Christmas!

www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk 07540246081 info@greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk Follow us on

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Business

Strathendrick Decorating & Plastering

John Gault m: 07748 283947 Allan Denton m: 07984 549933 Email: strathdp@hotmail.com Interior, Exterior Paint Work. Ames Taping. Coving and all types of Plasterwork.

Eveything you need for a cozy night in!

WE STOCK: Peat, Logs, Kindling, briquettes Multi Fuel Stoves Wood Burner Stoves Companion Sets • Fire Screens Log Baskets • Fire Bricks Coal Hods • Grates

Screw It, 89 Main Street, Callander, Perthshire, FK17 8BQ | Tel: 01877 331281 | Mobile: 07823 774202

68 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business

FIRST WINDOW CLEAN

FREE WHEN YOU BOOK IN FOR A YEAR

WINDOW CLEANING

15% OFF PRESSURE WASHING

01436 679994

t: e: info@nightanddaycleaning.co.uk w: www.nightanddaycleaning.co.uk

TWICE TWICEASAS NICE NICE B LBI N L IDNS D&S S&H SU H T TU ET R TS ELTD R S LTD

Suppliers Suppliersofof high high quality quality made made to measure to measure window window blinds blinds

Vertical Vertical• •Roller Roller • Senses • Senses • Vision • Vision Venetian Venetian• • Wood Wood Venetian Venetian • Roman • Roman Pleated Pleated• •Perfect Perfect Fit Fit • INTU • INTU Plantation PlantationShutters Shutters • •

Accredited Accredited 'Make 'Make it Safe' it Safe' dealerdealer

Freephone: Freephone: 0808 0808 192 1927001 7001 7001 Freephone: 0808 192 Email: david@twiceasniceblinds.com Email:david@twiceasniceblinds.com Email:david@twiceasniceblinds.com

www.twitter.com/twiceniceblinds www.twitter.com/twiceniceblinds www.facebook.com/TwiceAsNiceBlinds www.facebook.com/TwiceAsNiceBlinds

www.twiceasniceblinds.com www.twiceasniceblinds.com www.twiceasniceblinds.com Follow us on

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Business

FK postcodes covered by Stirling Branch

01786 472335 stirling@apollo-blinds.co.uk Glasgow postcodes covered by Clydebank Branch eg G61 G62 G63

0141 941 1852 clydebank@apollo-blinds.co.uk

HANDCRAFTED KITCHENS. UNBELIEVABLE VALUE. Cele 35 ybrating with g ears rea

on all

t offe produc rs ts!

• All cabinets & doors handmade in our Bridge of Weir workshop. • Every installation is carried out by our own time served, experienced cabinetmakers. • We can give you a truly individual, bespoke kitchen for far less than a high street showroom. Call us now for a FREE design visit on 01505 614722 or visit www.burndale.co.uk for more details.

70 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business

01436 676921 Commercial & Domestic Cleaners

www.spkcleaning.co.uk

Visit Stirling, Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everyone!

Visit: www.destinationstirling.com

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Christmas Gift Guide Endrick Blooms

‘Let us create your perfect Christmas’ * Bespoke door wreaths * * Co-ordinating table centres * * Beautiful Gifts & stocking fillers *

Tel: 01360 550404 | endrickblooms@yahoo.co.uk Visit us on Truffle catering is an event catering company situated in the heart of Loch Lomond. Available for weddings, parties and canapé functions. E: truffleevents@hotmail.com

Endrick Blooms is very proud to be celebrating our 25th Anniversary this year, and what better way to mark this than being nominated for Scottish Wedding florist of the year! From creating floral designs in her kitchen at home, Pamela Maxwell has created a wonderful family business in the heart of Killearn employing a brilliant team of girls. We continue to design fabulous arrangements for weddings, events and gifts for our lovely customers, and look forward to our next 25 years! From the Bloomers x

Elin Isaksson Glass Studio & Gallery

Unique wedding, birthday and Christmas gifts. Hand blown glass for your home and garden.

Studio Christmas Sale 10% off all stock! 6th-13th Dec. Open 12-3pm Studio & Gallery (Open by app.only) Braehouse | Touch | Stirling | FK8 3AH E: info@elinisaksson.com T: 07968871439

We feature Gifts for all ages and occasions, Whisky, Gin, beer and a small selection of original art.

10%

all off in JanSales when uary! you q ParkLif uote e

OPEN DAILY 11 Main Street, Drymen G63 8PJ Online shop: www.scotlandglassblowing.co.uk

72 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Business

Buchlyvie Pottery Shop pg 45

Ealain Gallery pg 72

Town & Country Designs pg 52

Sheila Fleet Jewellery pg 25

Three Sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bake pg 50

Elin Isaksson Studio pg 72

Endrick Blooms

Wonderland pg 9

Nick Nairn pg 23

Moon Drymen pg 8

Endrick Blooms pg 72

The House of Darrach pg 54

Scotia Spice pg 56

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Business

Carol Robb Bookkeeping Services Affordable Alarm & CCTV Systems

Bogged down in paperwork, no time do your bookkeeping? Call Carol on

M: 07786 822408 H: 01360 770847

E: carol.robb386@btinternet.com

J Brand Decorating All aspects of interior and exterior decorating and plasterwork undertaken.

GN ELECTRICAL

Domestic & Commercial Electricians

Gregor Nicolson 5 Kiltrochan Drive, Balfron G63 0QJ

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

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALIST

Domestic & Commercial Installations gnelectrical@live.co.uk Extensions & New Builds Full & partial Rewires Fuse Box Replacement Indoor & Outdoor Lighting 24hr Emergency Call Out Fault Finding TV/Satellite Installs PAT Testing Free Estimates & Advice Insurance Work

DRYMEN T: 07773 299 315

ALL JOINERY WORK UNDERTAKEN “We Fully project manage the job from start to finish, taking care of Installation, Electrics, Plastering, Plumbing.” “CMC will work with you to create a beautiful new Kitchen or Bathroom to suit your budget.” “We believe people want simple honest advice”

Call us now for a free estimate: t: 01389 720 412 m: 07776 061 471

e: calam.mccrorie@hotmail.co.uk w: www.cmchomeimprovements.co.uk

74 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

3 Balgair Castle Estate, Fintry, Balfron G63 0LP

homeworx

Business property maintenance and repairs

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

• Kitchens,

• Renovations • Extensions

• General joinery • Insurance work

• Free estimate

Bathrooms Design and Installation

All Trades Provided

all work considered

for a free quote, call 01360 550542 or 07870 329349

Natural Stone

Architectural ~ Walling ~ Paving ~ Ornamental All Enquiries Welcome

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

www.tradstocks.co.uk

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Business

Need it Done Right?

DUNRITE PLUMBING Pride in Workmanship

Minor repairs to complete installation

Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens 4x4 Van for all weather conditions No call out charge FREE Estimates Fully Insured

T: 01360 550799 M: 07772944521 E: Dunrite.plumbing33@yahoo.co.uk

Before

76 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

After

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

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Business

ALAN ROBINSON

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS (established 27 years)

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

DRYMEN TILING WALL & FLOOR TILING

Ceramic & Porcelain Installation of tanking systems for showers & wet rooms Tel: 07810 194226 / 01360 660401 drymentiling@btinternet.com FREE No Obligation Quote 78 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

R. B. Steel & Co

freephone 0800 0152 728 visit us at www.rbsteel.co.uk or email info@rbsteel.co.uk

HELENSBURGH • OLD KILPATRICK • GRANGEMOUTH Follow us on

| 79

Business

HUBBARDS RECYCLING FACILITY

GARTOCHARN DON’T JUST SCRAP YOUR CAR

RECYCLE IT! Instant Payment

For: Cars, Vans, Trucks & Trailers

For: Cars, Vans, Trucks, & Trailers

Ferrous & Non Metals D.V.L.A. Certificate of Ferrous Destruction Supplied D.V.L.A. Certificate of Destruction Supplied

Phone Jack or Julie on 01389 830319

80 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Buchlyvie Golf Society

The golf society donated £500 to Cancer Research UK in memory of one of its founder members, Andy McAllister, who died in September 2012. The Andy McAllister Handicap Trophy was donated by his family following his death, being played for the first time in October 2012 and at the end of each subsequent year. In perfect conditions on Saturday 20th September 25 members of Buchlyvie Golf Society played in the competition and the trophy was presented to the winning team of Edward Mayhew, Tam Caldwell, Brian McCallion & Steven Hart in The Buchlyvie Inn with all the proceeds of the day donated to CRUK in Andy’s memory.

Callum Walker Energy

“Scotland's Largest renewable energy & Passivhaus centre”

Energy Efficient Triple Glazed Windows & Doors

Renewable Heat & Pellet Fired Stoves

Wintergardens & Bi-Folding Doors

Scotland's largest dedicated Passivhaus and renewable energy centre displaying: Internorm windows, Solarlux Doors, Wintergardens, Bio-Mass Systems, heat pumps, pellet stoves Thermofloor underfloor heating packs & jaga low temperature heating systems. Callum Walker Energy Source 24 Fairykirk Road, Rosyth, Fife KY11 2QQ

Mon – Fri : 8am – 5pm

Tel: 01383 415 914 Email: info@energy-source.co.uk

Sat : 10am – 4pm

www.energy-source.co.uk

Sun : Closed

Opening Hours

| 81

Log & Fuel Sup Business

Logs - Kindling - Briquettes - Chimney Sweep

CALL DAWN

MOBILE 07795 966 514

82 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Small animal feeds delivered to your home. Call Dawn for more info.

ppliers T: 01786 842 225 www.wilsonsgas.co.uk

E: info@wilsonsgas.co.uk

Business

Home Heating Fuels • Home Heating Oils • Tank Suppliers & Installers • Domestic Bottled & Bulk Gas • Industrial & Commercial Fuels • Agricultural Fuels • Lubricants • Pink Paraffin Call Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm 24hr answerphone service Fast Efficient Service - same day or next day delivery

01360 660264 Fax: 01360 660001 Parkview, Croftamie, Glasgow G63 0EU

Keep Cosy this Winter Suppliers of Boilers, Gas Fires & Cookers Install & Service of Gas Appliances Safety Checks & Landlord Certificates Domestic and Commercial Gas Repairs

www.jamesdbilsland.com

• Fully seasoned ﬁrewood logs & kindling. • Delivered in bags or bulk loads. • Best prices guaranteed.

LOMOND LOGS LTD

Order your regular supplies from Andrew on m: 07793 158817, t: 01360 660911 or by email: andrew@lomondlogs.co.uk www.lomondlogs.co.uk Follow us on

| 83

Business

A. Ferguson Plastering

Free No Obligation Quotes

General Building • Plastering • Roughcasting Decorating • Kitchen Fittings • Bathroom Fitting Hard & Soft Landscaping • Fencing Roman Rd, Balfron, G63 OPW Mob: 07789 137215 Tel: 01360 440 065 E: a.ferguson_plasterers@hotmail.co.uk

Michael Oconnell

Drymen Oil Boiler Maintenance Aga & Rayburn servicing Tel: 01360 660371 Mob: 07732 205121

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

FREE ESTIMATES

from a tapwasher to a complete heating system

All plumbing enquiries contact Stewart: 07590 843607 / 01360 770847 sreidplumbing@hotmail.com

teven kinner

zing & Joinery, Gla

intenance Property Ma

Glazing repairs Misted/cracked double glazing units replaced.

All TypEs of joinEry work undErTAkEn A-Rated Upvc/timber windows & doors, Upvc roofline cladding and Kitchens all supplied and fitted.

call now for a free estimate 11 Strathview Terrace, Balfron G63 0PS Telephone: 01360 449 080 Mobile: 07713 805 086 Email: stevenskinnerjoinery@gmail.com

FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES MEMBER

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

84 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

• Only pay for what you use

• No Waste

• Deliveries from 1m3

• No Part load charges

• Barrow Service

• No waiting charges

Index Accountants/Banks/Bookkeeping/Finance Baxter Accounting 59 Carol Robb Bookkeeping Services 74 HSBC 4 JMC Chartered Accountants 59 Sykam & Co Chartered Accountants 58 Vision lifestyle financial planning ltd 59 Activities & Courses Deanston Distillery 28 & 29 Fintry Sports Centre 64 Go Country 10 Green Aspirations Scotland 67 MacRoberts Centre 38 McLaren Leisure Centre 40 Sir Walter Scott Steamship 65 Stirling Council 2014 71 The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre 14 Alterations/Soft Furnishings The Sewing Room 40 Architect/Surveyors Michael Homfray Land Surveys 57 MH Planning 57 Morris Architects 57 Thomas Robinson 57 Caravans Stirlingshire Caravans 7 Car Hire Endrick Chauffeur 7 Christmas Event Santa’s Woodland Experience 33 Christmas Trees Duff Christmas Trees 33 Edenmill Farm 30 & 31 Santa’s Woodland Experience 33 Computer Services Apricot Studios 58 Bright Star IT 6 Gemini Solutionz 58 Kappa Computer 58 Microcroft 15 Electrical Buchlyvie Electrical 74 GN electrical 74 Entertainment Kippen Panto 35 Killearn Kirk 34 Florists (1 record) Endrick Blooms 72 Food/Drink & Accommodation Aberfoye Butcher 11 Aberfoyle Holidays 10 Bar Siena 56 Blane Valley 47 Buchlyvie Pottery Shop & Coffee Kiln 45 Coach House 12 & 13 Cooper Cottages 46 Culcreuch Castle & Estate 45

House Of Darroch 54 Inn at Kippen 55 Nick Nairn Cook School 23 Oak Tree Inn 48 Poppies Hotel & Restaurant 46 The Fintry Inn 49 Three Sisters Bake 50 & 51 Town & Country Designs Coffee Shop 52 & 53 Galleries & Gift Shops Christine Thomson Art 22 Ealain Gallery 72 Elin Isaksson Glass 72 Ian Gallagher Jewellers 9 Loch Lomond Shores 26 & 27 Moon 8 Sheila Fleet Jewellery 24 & 25 The Scottish Wool Centre 16 Wonderland 9 Gardening & Outdoors Allander Aggregates Ltd 63 Benview Garden Centre 60 Craig Tree Services 63 Cruachan Landscaping 62 Fraser Robb 63 John Currie Brick and Stonework 62 Moorpark Horticultural Consultants 60 Scotia Gardens Ltd 61 Stumpz 62 Hair & Beauty Trilogy Hair Salon 22 LMH Hair 22 MacKenzie Stewart Hair 21 Rebbeca Sinclair 22 Health & Wellbeing Aberfoyle Pharmacy 16 Killearn Fitness Health & Wellbeing 18 Lumsdaine Halls 21 Osteopathic Clinic 18 Physio Fit Scotland 18 Salann Halotheraphy 19 Siobhan Fitzgerald 18 Tir Na Nog 21 Homes & Interiors Apollo Blinds 70 Ardstove 68 Burndale Workshop 70 Ironhorse Studios 71 J Walker Interiors 69 Screwit 68 Sparkle Carpets 71 Steven Burgess Furniture 88 Stirling Stove Centre 70 The Fabric Gallery 11 Twice as Nice Blinds and Shutters 69 Kids Section Heron House Early Years 41

Loch Lomond Sea Life Centre 40 Lomond School 2 Razzamataz 40 The Glasgow Academy 42 & 43 Laundry & Domestic Services The Cat’s Pyjamas 87 The Laundry Lady 86 Top to Bottom Cleaning Services 87 Local Produce Scotia Spice 56 Logs & Fuel James D Bilsland Ltd 83 Lomond Logs Ltd 83 Strathendrick Logs 82 Tartan Timber 82 W.Wilson & Sons 83 Painting & Decorating Endrick Decorators of Killearn 3 Jack Brand Decorating 74 Strathendrick Decorators 68 Photography & Portraits Georgia Boyd Portraits 21 Paul Saunders Media & Photography 23 Sport & Leisure Buchanan Arms Leisure Club 64 The Pro Shop 66 Trades & Services Aberfoyle Satellite Company 78 AC Gold Energy 80 Adrian Pirie 84 A Ferguson Plastering 84 Appliance Repairs & Spares 78 Bathroom Transformations 7 Callum Walker energy Source 81 CMC Home Improvements 74 C-Mix 84 Drew Johnston 68 Drymen Boilers 84 Drymen Tiling 78 Dunrite Plumbing 76 G&S Roofing Ltd 77 G Ford & Son 77 GWB Plastering 74 Homeworx Killearn 75 Household & Industrial Floor sanding services 76 Hubbards 80 KM Joiners 75 Man Aboot the Hoose 84 RB Steel & Co 79 Render Mender 76 RM Contractors 76 Stewart Reid Blumbing 84 Steven Skinner Joinery Services 84 Tradstocks 75 Window Cleaning Night & Day 69 Follow us on

| 85

The Laundry Lady

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 86 | www.parklifescotland.co.uk

Two f One D or uvets Phon ! e or c he ebsit ck detai e for ls!

the w

Farmers Markets

Edenmill Farm

Killearn Country Market 1st Saturday of the month ; Killearn Village Hall, Balfron Road Monthly indoor market offering local crafts & farm foods with an emphasis on the handmade and those producing or making locally

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. A selection of breads from Mhor bread also available.

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.

parking, wonderful shopping in the Lomond Shore Gateway Centre, picnic areas and restaurants.

Stirling Farmers Market 2nd Saturday 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 cakes & Edenmill fresh meats.

Loch Lomond Shores Farmers Market

Benview Farmshop

1st & 3rd Sunday of the month; 10am-4pm Balloch Most panoramic location of any Scottish market. A magnificent selection of produce, nearby

Gatmore 9-5pm Mon-Sat, 10-5pm-Sun A large selection of Fruit & Veg. grown on site, Preserves, Cheese, Meat also stocked.

The Old Cow Shed Enjoy a delicious meal at ‘The Old Cow Shed’ Restaurant open from 29th Nov to 24th Dec Mon-Fri 9am-6pm & Sun 9am-5pm

Edenmill Farm Shop Open 7 days a week from 1st Dec 9am-5pm Delivery service available Order your Kelly Bronze Turkey and Steak pies for the festive season! Call 01360 771707

Established since 2010

Fully insured • Free in home estimates Professional and reliable Cleaning to a high standard Full house cleaning from Top to Bottom 01360 440901 | 07960 156044 | fatcat10@me.com www.thecatspyjamascleaning.co.uk

Please Call: 07534 914 902 or Email: lisakelly95@googlemail.com For more info please visit: toptobottomcleaningservices.me.uk

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January Sale starts Sunday 11th January 2015 at 12 noon.

Argyll Dining Table and Loom Chairs

Open Mon- Sat 10.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.30pm & Sunday 12 - 4pm. www.stevenburgess.co.uk

Next edition covers February-March. Deadline is 12th of January. We have moved! You can find us at Killearn Mill, Killearn, G63 9LQ.

To contact us about advertising or events please call 01360 441006 or email katrina@parklifescotland.co.uk www.parklifescotland.co.uk