West End Life issue21 April/May 2014

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April/May 2014

Easter Eggstra ities to family fun activ d!

West End and beyon throughout the

YOUR special guide

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Easter 2014 www.westendlife.biz

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West End Life Magazine

Special Easter Section page p25

Over £1,000 of prizes to be won Family days out for Easter and the holidays Cut your Fuel Bills p43

Jordanhill West End Bearsden Milngavie ■

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HELLO Hyndland The HelyHairStudio, one of Scotland’s foremost Hairdressing families has a new salon at 25 Clarence Drive, Glasgow G12 9QN. Next time you are passing why not pop in and say hello!

We run special offers from time to time so keep up to date by following us on Twitter & Facebook. Read more about us online at helyhairstudio.co.uk twitter.comhelyhairstudio facebook.com/helyhairstudio Looking forward to saying hello soon

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0141 332 6068 Open 7 days... Late nights Wed, Thur & Fri till 9pm

18

4 Best thing for…..

5

It’s golf time

8 From Wet, Wet Wet to

Woodend Bowling Club

4

14 How to choose a letting agent

15 The Independence Question

18 Tips for a stress free

8

wedding

26 Fun facts about Easter 43 How to cut your Energy Bills

44

est End Gig and W Concert guide

46 Spring has arrived Contributors this issue: Ellen Arnison, David Muir, Brian Milne Thomas Angel, Douglas Harvey Penelope Longstockings

April/May Issue 21, 2014 Publisher: West End Life Deals Ltd Co editors:

Charles Briggs

Noreen Ferguson

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STOP 23 PRESS STOP PRESS Historical Association

Hillhead Library Thursday 10th April 5.30pm - for budding engineers.

“James Watt and the Rise of Steam” Professor John Marsh, Head of the School of Engineering, University of Glasgow will look at Watt’s inventions, the challenges he faced and set the in the context of the present day.

Admission free. For further information, contact the Secretary: gwsbhistoricalassociation@gmail.com Features Editor: Ellen Arnison ellen@westendlife.biz Advertising Sales Manager: Nicky Murphy nicky@westendlife.biz Advertising Sales: Lisa Sanderson lisa@westendlife.biz

Contact Info: Editorial: 07788-923054 Advertising: 0141-413-4660 Email: editor@westendlife.biz Web: www.westendlife.biz Graphic Design: Phil Cunningham www.creative-magazine-designer.co.uk Advert Design: Simon Jones, Skep Design

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors, or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. West End Life Deals Ltd does not officially endorse any advertising material included in this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher.

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 3

The best thing for…

Here’s our round up of the things we think are the best in the West.

Hopefully, you’ll find something to put a spring in your step.

The best thing for having a cracking time at Easter… Join the RSPB as it explores the birdlife in Kelvingrove Park. Find out about our feathered friends from 1pm on Saturday, 19 April and Sunday 20 April in Kelvingrove Park by the pond and in the Art Gallery and Museum.

The best thing for finding a treasure… Starry Starry Night on Dowanside Line is stuffed with vintage and antiques. Have a poke around, you’ll find something you never knew you wanted.

The best thing for peering at weird things in jars… the Hunterian Museum at Glasgow Unversity is packed with fascinating scientific and medical marvels. http://www.gla.ac.uk/ hunterian/

The best thing for dreamy ice cream sundaes any day…

Crolla’s Gelateria on Byres Road has plenty to tempt the taste buds from banoffee swirl to kinder egg flavour (the chocolate not the filling!).

The best thing for a great West End read… Laura Marney’s new book For Faughie’s Sake is launched at Waterstone’s on Sauchiehall Street on 9 May. It’s the follow up to No Wonder I Take A Drink.

The best thing for culture in comfort… the National Theatre Live production of King Lear is being shown at the Grosvenor Cinema in Ashton Lane on Thursday, 1 May. See www. grosvenorcinema.co.uk for more.

The best thing for getting in the mood for Glasgow 2014…

Visit legacy2014 and find out how your community can get involved in the enormous event that is the Commonwealth Games.

The best thing for enjoying nature’s colours captured…

Visit the Big Mouth Coffee Shop in Partick in April to see Ingrid Petrie’s Exhibition of jewellike prints.

The best thing for supporting a big man’s big effort… Artist Peter Howson is walking across Scotland to raise awareness and funds for autism. He’s putting autism on the map: www.scottishautism.org

The best thing for keeping it real… it doesn’t matter what shade of trendiness comes and goes nearby, Tennents is loyal to its values. A proper pub with atmosphere… and smell to match.

... Hair & Beauty products direct to your door www.theechshop.com 4 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Season 2014 AHOY!

After the wettest winter that I can remember, finally the clocks are changing, temperatures are rising and winter mats will start to disappear from use for another year.

It’s golf time.

Usually my articles at this time of year point to the fact that the colder, icy mornings are great days to be out there practising. But the sad fact is that the weather has limited our time out on the practice greens.

It’s time to get out there and get a brush up. Get your goals written for this year; are you going to reach that specific handicap figure or are you going to shoot that magic number?

It is a perfect time to come and book yourself in for a lesson or two, to see where you are, what you need to work on and to have a road map to success. You could try and sort it out yourself, as many did last year without success or remember that ‘If nothing changes, nothing changes’. Maybe it’s time to let someone help.

It is not as expensive as you think. A lesson with myself at Milngavie Golf Club costs £20 for 40 minutes. You can buy 5 lessons for £100, get 1 free and spread them out through the season to use at your pace. I provide all the practice balls so there is no need to factor that into your costs as you would at certain driving ranges where lessons start at £27 for 30 minutes and then you have to pay for the balls you need. There is no increase in my price for short game tuition. Some practice facilities now add a surcharge of around £5 if you want to sharpen the most important part of your game.

Whichever route you choose, the sooner you start, the quicker you will improve!

With the Ryder Cup coming this year in our own Country, make this the year you reach your potential.

Best Prices Guaranteed

Fully Seasoned firewood logs & Kindling Delivered in Bags or Bulk Loads Order your regular supplies from Andrew on M: 07793 158 817, T: 01360 660 911 or by email: andrew@lomondlogs.co.uk www.lomondlogs.co.uk

Ann McKechin MP Financial Ombudsman Service Event May 16th 10am-11.30am Hillhead Library

A consumer drop-in session with a focus on mis-sold PPI’s, credit card accounts and advice on other financial matters.

Keep it on the short stuff!

David Muir.

Great Golf…Glorious Environment Stunning, vibrant, welcoming, and free from over-formality!

The Course for the West End

No Joining Fee! Limited Offer!

Full Seven Day Membership • Weekday Membership Flexible “pay and play” Membership Ladies, Juniors, Gents all welcome • Visitors Most Welcome For more details visit www.milngaviegolfclub.co.uk Tel: 0141 956 1619

West End Life Magazine

I write for West End Life, but I can write for you too For • website copy • newsletters • press releases • blog posts • articles • or just some advice Contact Ellen Arnison on 01505 610272

ellenarnison@hotmail.com or visit www.bloggingworks.co.uk

www.westendlife.biz | 5

Raw and Rare - A new future in furniture

Artist Bonnie Lowson has returned to her creative roots with a new venture of creating beautiful pieces of furniture from things that were destined to be scrapped.

She is inspired to craft her unique items by a desire to give a new lease of life to packing materials, crates and pallets.

She said: “I went to Art School in Dundee and achieved a BA Honours degree in printed textiles.

“I decided to focus on the industry that I am in until I saw an opportunity to return to my artistic roots.

I hated seeing large skips full of scrap wood and decided to make full use of it.”

Among her first pieces are striking coffee tables, picnic sets and even dog beds. Owners of her furniture have individual room centrepieces that are practical as well as attractive.

Finished coffee tables, for example, may have started life as rough packing pallets, but, by the time Bonnie has finished with them, they are elegant – yet functional – pieces set to become the heirlooms of the future.

Not only are owners getting a fabulous item of furniture, that will be a talking point for years to come, they are also tapping into the environmentally important trend of recycling and reusing. This is upcycling at its best.

She creates items to order taking into account the taste of the client and what they have in mind for the bespoke piece.

“I want to make a one-off that people will love rather than something bland and mass-produced,” said Bonnie. “Whatever people have in mind, I can work on.”

Raw& Rare Made for you

Stunning, up-cycled furniture designed by Bonnie Lowson.

From one-off centrepieces to transform your lounge, to rustic, unique garden furniture to enjoy (showing off) with friends and family.

If you are interested in one of Bonnie’s creations visit her website www.rawandrare.co.uk or phone 0795 4544481.

Coffee Tables • Garden Tables and Seating Garden Benches • Planters • Kindling Boxes For further information and to discuss your own piece of furniture created by Bonnie visit our website.

Tel: 0795 4544481 www.rawandrare.co.uk

6 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Centre for Open Studies Spring into Summer courses for adults We offer an exciting range of new part-time courses and day events: Archaeology, Classical Studies and Egyptology • Art • NEW! Business and Executive Coaching • Computing • Counselling Skills • History, International Affairs & Politics • Languages • Literature and Creative Writing • Music • Philosophy & Religious Studies • Psychology • Science To find out more visit the Centre for Open Studies, St. Andrew’s Building, 11 Eldon St., Glasgow G3 6NH www.glasgow.ac.uk/centreforopenstudies www.facebook.com/universityofglasgowcentreforopenstudies https://twitter.com/GUopenstudies Email: openstudies-enquiry@glasgow.ac.uk Telephone: +44 (0)141 330 1860/1853

www.glasgow.ac.uk

The University of Glasgow, charity number SC004401.

WEST END HANDY MAN

HATE DIY? CAN’T DIY? WON’T DIY?

ELECTRICAL PLUMBING FLAT PACK ASSEMBLY TILING JOINERY BATHROOM & KITCHEN RENOVATIONS

MALL! S O O T B NO JO Competitive pricing!

Contact David on:

07843 006840 www.westend-handyman.co.uk info@westend-handyman.co.uk

West End Life Magazine

TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION SERVICE driveways | water features | planting | steps | walls | paths pergolas | fencing | decking | lawns

TERRA FIRMA GARDENS

We cater for most budgets and sizes of garden, we are fully insured and all our work is guaranteed.

For a free initial consultation call 0141 429 6267

www.terrafirmagardens.com

Susan Gallagher BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture

www.westendlife.biz | 7

Graeme Clark –

from Wet Wet Wet to Woodend Bowling Club

Graeme Clark, best known as a quarter of Wet Wet Wet, is bringing his solo act to the intimate setting of the West End’s Woodend Bowling Club.

The singer, songwriter and bass player has been writing his own music and performing it live for the past few years.

He said: “It’s a different thing from what I was used to, but, being the show-off that I am, I enjoy it “The creativity with my other job was slowing down and I needed an outlet. I didn’t want to go down that X Factor route of trying to sell my songs. I felt that if I write the songs for me, it’s a vehicle for me to go out and play. ”Graeme wrote huge hits including Wishing I Was Lucky and Goodnight Girl, but his fans will get a different experience at his solo gigs.

“I use the analogy that one’s like selling fine art and one’s like selling mass market prints. Although the two are similar, they are poles apart.”

8 | West End Life – April/May 2014

He admits that when he first got up and, as he puts it “moved three steps to centre stage”, he was daunted.

He said: “It was out of my comfort zone, but I really like it. I’m happy to go and play to 100 people because the skill-set required is totally different.

In a sense, it’s me going back to where it started –an acoustic guitar, stripped right back. You’re naked up there, we hid behind big instruments and big productions, but this is all right back to the rehearsal rooms.”

Of course, it doesn’t mean he’s finished with the big stages of Wet Wet Wet, they are booked for a series of shows this year at race courses up and down the country Graeme’s gig at the Woodend Bowling Club is on June 4. For more information and tickets visit: www.graemeclark.co.uk.

@westendlife

Bring Spring into your home –

fresh new ideas and fabulous new additions for your home from Store Interiors!

Seattle Tub Chair at £299.00

William Tartan Armchair at £399.00

Alexis 4-Seater Sofa Hampstead Dining Table & Chairs

Fabio Designer Corner Group With Swivel Cuddler in Sherlock Pearl-Neopolitan Mix Rouge

Our prices are permanently

low low low

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 9

DentistryDentistry with a difference with a difference

Philip Friel Advanced Philip Friel Dentistry Advanced Dentistry 154 Hyndland Road, 154 Hyndland Hyndland, Road, Glasgow, Hyndland, G12 9HZ Glasgow, G12 9HZ Tel no: 0141 339Tel 7579 no: Website: 0141 339 7579 www.philipfriel.com Website: www.philipfriel.com Philip Friel and his fellow dental Philip professionals Friel andare hisregistered fellow dental withprofessionals the General Dental are registered Council.with the General Dental Council.

Philip's membership number is 77637.

Philip's*Specialist membership orthodontists number is 77637. are Andrew *Specialist McGregor orthodontists are Andrew McGregor (GDC 80505) and Imran Shafi (GDC (GDC79325).

80505) and Imran Shafi (GDC 79325).

Visit our state ofVisit the art, our relaxing state of the clinic art,where relaxing our clinic team where will our team w take great care of take your great dental careneeds. of your dental needs.

We offer bespoke We maintenance offer bespoke plans maintenance to retain a plans healthy to mouth, retain a healthy mo teeth and gums. teeth Should and treatment gums. Should be required treatment we offer be required a full we offer a fu range of routine range restorative of routine dentistry restorative treatments, dentistry cosmetic treatments, cosmetic dentistry and specialist* dentistryorthodontics and specialist* to make orthodontics your smile to make as your smile a beautiful as it can beautiful be. The as clinic it can offers be. The a fullclinic range offers of Denplan a full range of Denpla membership withmembership plan membership with plan benefits. membership benefits.

Any lost teeth can Any belost replaced teeth can using beareplaced full rangeusing of implant a full range of implant treatments to restore treatments a single to or restore multiple a single toothor space multiple as tooth space as naturally as possible. naturally Dental as implants possible. can Dental alsoimplants be usedcan to also be used to stabilise dentures, stabilise improving dentures, function, improving stabilityfunction, and confidence. stability and confide A dental implantAinformation dental implant leaflet information can be provided leaflet can on request. be provided on req We look forwardWe to caring look forward for your tosmile. caring for your smile.

Wickerman Festival 2014 Boldly mixing established, emerging and retro artists with top DJs playing until 5am, the Wickerman Festival (25th & 26th July) is one of Scotland’s leading independent music festivals.

Hosted on a working farm, in the picturesque Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland, it attracts music lovers from all over the UK. Its ten stages present an eclectic and often surprising mix of leading artists as well as alternative acts and up and coming talent. From dance and electronica, to rock, indie, reggae and punk, Wickerman prides itself on catering for every music taste.

This year’s hotly anticipated line-up is topped with British rap superstar Dizzee Rascal and Scottish pop-rock band Del Amitri who will headline the Summerisle Stage. The Feeling, Alabama 3, Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, The Zombies, Big Country, Finding Albert, Model Aeroplanes and more are set to give electrifying performances in 2014.

Now in its thirteenth year, the two-day Festival will once again come to its legendary and spectacular climax with the Saturday night lighting of the Wickerman, followed by a promise to keep the Wickerman party stoked into the wee small hours.

Known for being one of the UK’s friendliest festivals, music lovers can also enjoy the host of entertainment and activities on offer throughout the festival’s

12 | West End Life – April/May 2014

fields, including a cinema, fun fair, circus entertainment, grass sledging, mountain biking and an array of arts and crafts.

Prices for an adult weekend ticket start at £105 and children aged 12 and under can attend for free. For further information please visit www. thewickermanfestival.co.uk.

Win Tickets to Wickerman Festival 2014!

To be in with a chance of winning 2 Adult weekend tickets, worth over £200, enter our competition at www. glasgowwestendmag.co.uk.

Click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there. Closing date Friday 16th May. Good luck!

@westendlife

Sporting chance of a fun-packed

Easter and Summer – Join in with Broomhill Sports Camps!

The Easter holidays are a great idea, in theory.

However, all too often within a few days children are fed up and have run out of things to do.

The solution for them – and parents who need to get to work – lies with signing up to a fun-packed Broomhill Sports Camp.

The parent-powered sports club started ten years ago to give local children greater access to a wide range of sports and has gone from strength to strength.

As well as term-time coaching and organising sporting events, Broomhill Sports Club runs inclusive camps during the holidays run by qualified and experienced coaches.

The camps – at Broomhill Primary and Hyndland Secondary Schools – are led in an enthusiastic manner providing all participants with a challenge in a friendly competitive sports environment.

The Easter Camps at Broomhill Primary run for the full day over the School holidays from the 7th April.

At Hyndland Secondary it’s a Soccer Camp that runs in the mornings over Easter break.

The sports programme is suitable for all abilities and is designed to promote self-esteem and leadership skills by working with others. And although the skills are acquired in a sporting environment, they

are important skills for all aspects of life.

Sports covered in the camps include things like; badminton, touch rugby, basketball, football, tennis, hockey, street games and athletics.

The week-long courses are designed for children to attend from Monday to Friday, but there are some day places available. Core actives run from 10am to 4pm, but extra time is available from 9am and until 5pm. They are open for anyone from P1 to S4.

The clubs are run to a successful and effective formula that includes and motivates everyone, even those younger children who find the idea of a weeklong camp somewhat daunting.

The holiday camps are just part of what Broomhill Sports Club has on offer. Currently there is training and match play in football, netball, multi-sports, hockey, karate and athletics. Around 750 children from 47 different schools get the benefit of sports via Broomhill.

For more information about the camps and to book places, visit the website at: www.broomhillcamps.com.

Broomhill Sports Club

Invite you to join our Club We are located at venues throughout the west of Glasgow We Offer: Football • Netball Cricket • Karate • Hockey • Running Multi Sports • Holiday Camps

To Join us or find out more please call or email

0141 339 3606

email@broomhillsportsclub.org.uk www.broomhillsportsclub.org.uk West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 13

How to choose a letting agent to look after your property There was a time when there were a total of about 10 letting agents in our area, of which seven would give excellent service.

However the buy-to-let boom has seen a huge increase in the number of agents and now there will be around 80 in the same area, making it very difficult to separate the excellent from the, frankly, not very good at all.

A lack of regulation meant that anyone could set up as an agent and there was a common perception that letting was an easy way to make money. As a result, the letting sector became fragmented with numerous agents, many of whom struggle to do their jobs well.

The ongoing management of a property is a major part of what distinguishes a good agent from a bad one.

Here are some points to help find an agent that will work well for you for the duration of your let: Speak to all the agents on your shortlist to get a feel for the sort of

Harvey &Co.

service you can expect. It should quickly become apparent if they know what they are talking about.

Nothing beats a word-of-mouth recommendation, but if you don’t have that ask for testimonials from clients.

Have a good look at the agent’s website and find out which letting portals they use. A good website and wide range of

portals help let property quickly.

Ask how well-established the agent is and how many properties they manage.

Make sure they know what regulations you must comply with.

They should also understand tax implications.

What services do they offer and is it possible for them to tailor a particular service to meet your requirements?

What are their fees? Are there hidden charges? It is the oldest trick in the book for landlords to be offered a low commission rate and then to find out they are being charged for advertising or an inventory over and above.

Are they a member of a letting organisation such as The Property Ombudsman or ARLA? Is the agent part of a larger organisation such as an estate agency? Is it a franchise? Try to get a feel for how much expertise they have.

Above all, you have to feel comfortable with the person you are talking to and the company you use. Things can go wrong during the course of a let and how your agent reacts makes the difference. If you think they may not pull out all the stops for you then steer clear.

Specialist Letting Agents in Glasgow’s West End & City Centre

Landlords – 50% off fee if let not agreed within 14 days Contact Douglas Harvey for Details First Floor, St George’s Buildings, 5 St Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2DH

T: 0141 204 1100 E: admin@harveylet.com www.harveylet.com 14 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Opportunity or gamble? by: Brian Milne

That’s the independence question With the Scottish independence referendum now less than six months away, there is still much to debate. Depending on your point of view, independence is either ‘an opportunity to build a better society’, or ‘a gamble’ over currency, jobs, pensions and the economy.

Perhaps the only aspects of the discussion to date that both parties can agree on is that the quality of the debate has not been particularly impressive so far. It’s also clear that it is difficult to get access to ‘impartial’ information, given the polarised nature of the debate.

This is not entirely unsurprising: like most economic data, it is the interpretation of the data that it is key rather than the data itself and it’s clear that this makes it easy to use the data to support or deride either side of the independence debate, depending on who is using them.

For instance, the most recent Fraser of Allander Institute Economic Commentary on the Scottish economy has been published this month. On the face of it, Scotland has recorded positive growth for the last six quarters.

Scotland’s GDP is now -0.9% below its prerecession peak, whereas the equivalent GDP for the UK is -1.9%. However, the Scottish figures do not include oil and gas production whilst the UK figures do.

Oil and gas production has suffered from a long period of weakness, which, when stripped out of the West End Life Magazine

UK figures, shows that the UK GDP has recovered 6.8% compared to a 4.9% recovery for Scotland.

Given this small example, it’s easy to see why the figures can be used to support either side of the debate and be so confusing for the rest of us.

That report does contain encouraging news for the Scottish economy, showing that the pace of recovery is accelerating and becoming more broadly based than previously thought. Good news. However, whether this is either a display of how well Scotland benefits from being part of the United Kingdom or a sign of the great potential that could be further accelerated upon independence, will depend very much on which side of the debate you reside.

Brian Milne is a partner in the business recovery practice of French Duncan Chartered Accountants.

FD Debt Solutions is the debt expert department of French Duncan Chartered Accountants. Our trusted advisors have been providing debt solutions across Scotland since 1989. Providing a quality service you can trust, we tailor every debt solution to the individual to ensure you can maintain and then exit the specific solution, debt and stress free.

www.westendlife.biz | 15

Meallmore Ltd Making Care Mean More…

Our new flagship private care home, expected to be one of the country’s finest providing nursing and dementia care, has opened its doors. Rooms at Antonine House on Roman Road, Bearsden, far exceed national care standards and provide a wide range of high quality care and personal services including a hairdressing and beauty salon.

Owned by Meallmore Ltd, a leading Scottish provider of nursing and residential care, we understand that moving to a full time residential care home is not a decision that is taken lightly. It’s often seen as a last resort. However, at Antonine House Care Home, those concerns will be banished. In fact, making that move can reward older people with a range of health and social benefits, as well as bringing families together. Being a family business, our priority is to maintain a standard of care and

services that improves the well-being and quality of life of our residents.

We strive to create a happy and stimulating home where people enjoy working and living. Residents are offered a variety of activities that can be tailored to their needs, to ensure they can socialise and continue to enjoy hobbies. We believe our residents should have choices about what they do and how they’re cared for and so we involve them and their families in developing their own personal care plans. We listen to what people say and treat them with respect, just as we would want for our own family.

If you are interested in finding out more about Antonine House please call Ms Bobby Dougan, the care home manager on: 0141 942 4644.

ANTONINE HOUSE, BEARSDEN 16 Roman Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 2SL Tel: 0141 942 4644 antonine@meallmore.co.uk www.meallmore.co.uk

16 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 17

Tips for a stress-free

Wedding Decide together what kind of wedding you want. It’s important to discuss what your expectations of your big day are BEFORE anyone else gets involved.

Make the main choices – type of ceremony, kind of venue, size of celebration. It’s not fixed, but gives you a starting point.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Of course it’s wonderful to have everything exactly as you want it, down to the buttons on the bridesmaids’ dresses and the petals on the flowers, however, in the greater scheme of things they don’t matter too much.

Know that perfection is impossible. OK, get as close as you can, but everything going without a hitch is simply not going to happen, so don’t get too upset if some small detail goes off track.

Remember whose wedding it is. Keep in mind that it’s your big day and that you can’t please everyone else. If your family or friends think you should be doing

things differently, listen politely and remind yourself whose big day it is.

Ask for help. If you feel overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your mother, future mother-in-law, best friends and even the groom will be flattered to be asked. You don’t have to do it on your own.

Don’t moan… or at least limit it. It might be tempting to have a rant about what someone on his side has said or done, but just pause to think about the effect of what you’re about to say. By all means let off steam, just be careful who’s listening. Family rifts can be caused by the silliest things and can take years to heal.

Keep in contact with your fiancé. It might seem a bit silly when, theoretically, this is the closest you’ve ever been.

However as plans pick up speed and there’s so much to do, the most important relationship of them all could get overlooked.

18 | West End Life – April/May 2014

Take the time to be together and not just talk about weddings.

Look after yourself. While there’s much to look forward to it’s also a stressful time. That’s why it’s doubly important that you take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise and take time to relax – you’ll reap the benefit.

Understand it’s OK to be nervous. Weddings are huge (even small ones). It’s understandable that you’ll feel a bit jittery. It would be unusual if you didn’t feel that way. It’ll help to keep talking to your fiancé and your close friends about how you feel.

Enjoy the special times. Make a point of catching up with the people you haven’t seen for a while. Use the wedding as an excuse for socialising with friends and family. The people you love are far more important than another dress fitting – and the good times are what you’ll remember. @westendlife

The Mackintosh Church at Queen’s Cross makes the perfect setting for your Wedding Ceremony. This hidden gem is the only church designed by the celebrated Scottish architect, designer and artist, Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

The Mackintosh Church is a truly unique venue that offers a stunning backdrop for your special day. Here, the simplicity of the design is inspiring.

Please contact us for further details of availability and options for wedding ceremonies as well as details of the Mackintosh Hall at the Church which provides an attractive venue for a Champagne reception or other celebrations.

© Mirrorbox Photography

We offer a unique partnership with House for an Art Lover making your day extra special by having the ceremony at the Mackintosh Church, followed by the reception at the House.

Queen’s Cross, 870 Garscube Road, Glasgow, G20 7EL T: 0141 946 6600 E: info@crmsociety.com W: www.mackintoshchurch.com W: www.crmsociety.com West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 19

Your love is our passion‌ At House for an Art Lover, we are passionate about weddings.

This Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired house, set in the grounds of Bellahouston Park, is the perfect setting for your special day. Your special day deserves a memorable setting.

For further information on our weddings visit www.houseforanartlover.co.uk or please contact our wedding coordinator on 0141 353 4773 or info@houseforanartlover.co.uk @westendlife 20 | West End Life – April/May 2014

It’s difficult to imagine a more beautiful setting for your wedding than House for an Art Lover. Set in the grounds of Bellahouston Park, this Mackintosh inspired building provides a wonderfully ‘Scottish’ setting for your wedding ceremony and meal up to 110 guests and evening reception up to 130 guests.

From an intimate affair for a handful of guests to a sophisticated banquet and ceilidh, at House for an Art Lover we pride ourselves on providing outstanding service. It’s your wedding day and your every whim will be our top priority. We are passionate about weddings and want to ensure that everything runs like clockwork on your special day whilst still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere for you and your guests.

The breath taking setting of The Mackintosh suite, comprising of the Main Hall, Music Room, Dining Room and Oval Room will provide a stylish backdrop for your prestigious occasion.

West End Life Magazine

The Mackintosh suite is the venue that will genuinely impress your guests.

We have a team of Chefs who will produce perfect food, on site, for your guests to enjoy and your dedicated wedding coordinator will be on hand from the second you book to help advise on all aspects of planning

your big day. Your devoted master of ceremonies will be ready to guide you seamlessly through your special day and ensure that it runs smoothly along with our fully trained staff who will be available to deal with your guests every need.

House for an Art Lover is licenced for civil, religious and humanist wedding ceremonies and we would be delighted to show you around House for an Art Lover with a view to holding your wedding here or answer any queries you may have. Our multiple award winning venue can be tailored precisely to your requirements and our friendly staff look forward to welcoming you.

Please just telephone our wedding coordinator on 0141 353 4773 or contact us via email weddings@houseforanartlover. co.uk For further information and to download our wedding pack please visit: www.houseforanartlover.co.uk www.westendlife.biz | 21

ELLEN CONLIN

Hair & Beauty

lifestyle

Must-read

Penelope Longstockings talks about that Katie Manning book and finds a solution for those troubling lines.

Oh, I love a good book. Not that I need to escape from my life, but isn’t it lovely to take a trip down someone else’s street for a change? I’ve just finished reading Madame X: My Notorious Life by Kate Manning. It’s not the tawdry tale you may expect from the title, but a beautifully-honed story of a New York orphan who climbs to dizzy heights in 19th century New York in an illegal business – and no, it’s not prostitution, as you may have imagined. It’s a big doorstop of a read that keeps you enthralled and engaged throughout. And, my friends, it makes me thank my lucky stars that we now live in such an open-minded society. Read it and you’ll laugh, grimace and weep in equal measures.

HERE COMES THE SUN Now, I do love the sunshine.

You’ll never hear me complaining about blue skies and yellow rays of lovely sunshine. However, the sharpness of spring is never kind to the complexion, is it girls?

Only yesterday I was powdering my nose – literally – with the mirror up to the light and I was just slightly horrified by the sight that met me. There were lines – laughter lines I like to imagine, but lines all the same – dents and all manner of evidence of the trials and tribulations life has thrown at me over the considerable years. ‘You get the face you deserve’, I was told as the first signs of ageing set in.

If that’s the case, I really wish

I’d burned the candle with a little less passion and had a few less unpleasant thoughts...

I had a chat with my good friend and stylist Ellen who applied a few swirls of the PRIORI® Coffeeberry Perfecting Minerals Foundation (available at www.theechshop.com) and voila I was returned instantaneously to my gorgeous self!

Try it – you know it makes sense –speak soon friends Love and Kisses Penelope Longstockings xx

WIN! WIN! WIN!

We are offering a Wella Styler/Straightener worth £79.95 –all you have to do is answer the following question.

In what country are the Commonwealth Games being held this year?

To enter visit glasgowwestendmag.co.uk and click on competitions

22 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Getting the most from your products Our team give their thoughts on the latest hair and beauty products available on the market today.

Kelly and Paula tell us more...

Priori® Coffeeberry® Minerals Perfecting Foundation This product is for everyone, finally a make-up that doesn’t just conceal blemishes but also heals them.

Both light and heavy application gives me healthy skin and luminosity, rather than a face full of spots and a chalky matte finish.

Every skincare and make-up brand out there claims to use minerals, but not all of them are as pure as they make out. If your make up is 100% mineral it will gently cover the skin with no harmful side effects, however if your minerals are any less you will find bulking agents such as talc, which will block and dehydrate the skin.

Moral of the story… DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS! This make-up will heal, strengthen, and protect the skin with the use of powerful Coffeeberry® antioxidants and an SPF 25 protection. We have had fantastic results with this product, specifically on our rosacea clients within the clinic.

Reviewed by Kelly P @ ECH Hyndland RRP: £33.00 Our Price: £29.95

Wella System Professional Luxe Oil Wella SP Luxe Oil is a must-have product for all hair types! Oils I have tried previously have left my hair feeling greasy and weighed them down; Luxe Oil in contrary is lightweight and leaves hair feeling soft and shiny. This product is a real multi -tasker, it can be used as an overnight treatment, a quick moisture and shine kick or as a styling treatment. Enriched with argan, almond, jojoba oils and keratin - Luxe Oil will strengthen even the most fragile of hair types.

As a bonus the SP Luxe Oil range (Shampoo and Mask) has a beautiful delicate aroma – available as a DUO from www.theechshop.com Reviewed by Paula W @ ECH Hyndland RRP: £26.50 Our Price: £19.95

Salon Offer: FREE Hydration, Repair or Colour Treatment - worth £15 with every Cut and Style.

Relax after a refreshing shampoo and cleanse, with a gorgeous head massage and a FREE treatment.

We will apply the treatment of your choice, place you below a Climazone - which will allow your treatment to develop and penetrate your hair more effectively.

Quote Code WE/APR when booking Cut and Style. Offer valid until 14 May 2014.

T&Cs apply

... Hair & Beauty products direct to your door www.theechshop.com West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 23

!

GLASGOW VET SCHOOL PRESENTS

THE 54TH ANNUAL RODEO

GARSCUBE ESTATE

12TH APRIL 2014 • 11AM - 5PM KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

GUVMA Rodeo 2014 @GUVMA_Rodeo

COME ALONG FOR A FUN-FILLED FAMILY DAY OUT

Pony rides, dog show, animal tent, craft fair, falconry display, duck herding, farrier demonstration, horse and carriage rides, horse rescue demonstration, husky demonstration, dance group performance, raffle with huge prizes and much more!

24 | West End Life – April/May 2014

£7 adult £3 concession £15 family

@westendlife

www.glasgowwestendmag.co.uk/eggstra

Easter Eggstra YOUR special guide to family fun activities throughout the West End and beyond!

F

Easter 2014 West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 25

Easter Fun facts about

W

hat’s not to love about chocolate eggs, Easter bunnies and melted butter on hot cross buns? It’s Easter again and, apart from anything, it means that warmer weather and sunshine is surely just around the corner.

Of course, Easter is the Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life, but, it’s so much more than that.

■ After Halloween, Easter is the

biggest sweetie eating time of year.

■ 76 per cent of people eat the ears on

chocolate bunnies first, only four per cent start with the tail.

■ The first chocolate eggs were made

in the early 19th century.

■ In Medieval times, a festival of egg

throwing was held in church. The priest would fling a hard-boiled egg to a choir boy who passed it on to one of his friends. When the clock struck 12, whoever was holding the egg was the winner and got to keep it.

■ Easter is also known as Pasch or

Pascha.

■ Easter is also the time for a

Pagan holiday honouring Eostre the goddess of spring which symbolises rebirth.

■ Other people believe Easter comes

from the German word eostarun meaning dawn and white.

■P retzels are also associated with

Easter. Apparently in 610AD an Italian monk used left-over dough to make a snack. He folded it to resemble children’s arms when they pray.

■ Giving and receiving painted eggs

started in ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Persians. The eggs were a sign of fertility and new life.

■ German folklore has the Easter

Bunny as a white hare that would

leave colourful eggs for good girls and boys on Easter morning.

■ The first Easter egg hunts are said to

have started because children would wake on Easter morning and build nests out of sticks and leaves for the Easter bunny to fill with eggs.

■ Easter Sunday is the first Sunday

after the full moon on the Spring Equinox between March 22 and April 25.

■ Guinness Book of World Records

claims that the largest Easter egg made was 25ft high and made of chocolate and marshmallow.

■R abbits and hares were also

symbols of fertility, hence the Easter bunny.

WIN £40 Voucher

Courtesy o f Sentry Box Toys!

West End Life has teamed up with Sentry Box Toys to give away a £40 voucher to one lucky reader (or one lucky reader’s special little boy or girl!)

All you have to do is find our hidden Easter Bunnies within this special Easter supplement (pages 25–38)! When all the bunnies have been found, make a note of all the individual letters to work out the name of our Easter Bunny!

We’ll give you a clue… his name begins with F! To enter, simply go to www. glasgowwestendmag.co.uk, click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there. Children should ask an adult to help them do this. Sentry Box Toys, situated at 175 Great George Street in Glasgow’s West End (just off the Byres Road), has a whole range of Easter Goodies from Easter Decorations to Easter Egg Hunt Kits, so this is an eggcelent prize to win!! Closing date Thursday 17th April. The winner will be notified in writing and can claim their prize immediately.

26 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Broomhill Shopping Centre Where shopping and eating is just around the corner.

ROMA

Little

BROOMHILL LAUNDRETTE & DRY CLEANERS

Broomhill Shopping Centre Broomhill Drive, 2-26 Norby Road Broomhill, Glasgow G11 7BN www.broomhillshoppingcentre.com

FREE PARKING West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 27

Dales cycles competition and reader offer for west end life 2 SPECIALIZED HELMETS TO GIVE AWAY + 25% OFF ALL HELMETS* AT DALES CYCLES

West End Life has teamed up with Dales Cycles - Glasgow’s oldest and largest local bike shop - to help cyclists stay safe on the roads.

Two lucky readers can each win a helmet worth £40 and can select from a Specialized Duet helmet created specifically for women or a Specialized Chamonix unisex helmet – both available in a selection of colours.We’re also offering all readers the chance to take advantage of an exclusive Dales’ helmet amnesty - 25% off all helmets in exchange for your old helmet which will be recycled.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a novice, Dales Cycles offers a fantastic range of

bikes, as well as a full selection of components, clothing and accessories, and the team of specialist staff are on hand with their expert knowledge and personal service to help you find the right product for you.

Dales Cycles has been at the heart of the west of Scotland’s cycling community for more than 100 years and its Glasgow city centre superstore at Dobbies Loan is home to the largest dedicated repair workshop in the west of Scotland.

Open seven days a week, the store stocks a range of bikes and products to suit every level of cyclist. A wide range of bikes and specialist equipment is also available at www.dalescycles.com

Win one of two bicycle helmets, courtesy of Dales Cycles!

Two lucky West End Life readers can win one of these two prizes to keep themselves safe on Glasgow’s roads and cycle paths. To enter, visit www.glasgowwestendmag. co.uk, click on competitions and follow the instructions from there. Closing date Friday 16th May. *Terms and conditions apply and can be seen when entering the competition. Good luck!

A Taste of Luxury on the Isle of Arran Win a fabulous overnight stay with a complimentary bottle of Prosecco and full Scottish Breakfast for 2 people!

West End Life magazine has teamed up with the multi-award winning Douglas Hotel, situated in the picturesque village of Brodick. Locally owned and family run, the Douglas Hotel provides an “around the clock” service for all your requirements on this

wonderful island. Relax in ultimate comfort, indulge in superb food and discover the island’s finest collection of whiskies, cocktails and wines in intimate surroundings, with spectacular views over Brodick Bay and to Goat Fell Mountain.

For further information about the Douglas Hotel, visit www.the douglashotel.co.uk or telephone 01770 302968.

To be in with a chance of winning this rather special prize, visit www.glasgowwestendmag. co.uk, click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from

28 | West End Life – April/May 2014

there. Terms: The prize is a Deluxe Double or Twin room, for 2 guests sharing and includes breakfast.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. This can be taken any night except Saturday, and excludes holiday weekends.

All dates are subject to availability and valid for one year from date of result.

Closing date Friday May 16th 2014. @westendlife

Have a monster time…

When is playing golf also a thrilling time-travelling adventure? When it’s a visit to Jurassic Parrr, of course.

Jurassic Parrr is the family fun part of the top-class World of Golf centre at Clydebank.

While enormous and very scary dinosaurs roar nearby, instead of running away screaming, you can play your way round 18 holes of adventure golf.

Navigate rocks, caves and waterfalls as you discover what happened after some mysterious eggs hatched in a Scottish village.

It is fantastic fun for all the family.

If that’s not enough, World of Golf has something for every golfer from beginners onwards, including individual or group lessons, innovative teaching resources and a driving range.

There’s also delicious food.

S

entry to Jurassic Parrr Adventure Golf Dinosaur themed Adventure Golf!

Come along and have a fun day out with all the family at Jurassic Parrr, located at World of Golf, Glasgow. This 18 hole adventure golf course will offer an exciting day out for all the family.

www.jurassicparrr.co.uk This voucher entitles a maximum of six people to 50% off the per person ticket price at Jurassic Parrr.

Not valid with family pass ticket. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, Voucher vaild until 30/09/2014

Ref: WEL14

Jurassic Parrr, World of Golf, 2700 Great Western Road, Glasgow G81 2XT Tel: 0141 944 4141

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 29

Heads of Ayr Farm Park is now open for its 21st season!

New Raccoons Smokey and Bandit are the Farm Park Raccoons, they are a cheeky pair who can’t wait to meet our visitors – They enjoy hanging upside down and playing in their water bowls.

A new Pirate Ship Adventure Area for 2014. ‘Buccaneer Bay’ One of the most exciting pirate ships ever ‘The Kalahari’ is new the Farm Park for 2014.

The Kalahari has a ruthless rope climb, wobbly bride – which can make visitors seasick, and a scary slide just for shipmates!

Camelot’s Castle Be a real braveheart at Camelot’s Castle. Head over the drawbridge and start exploring. There are tunnels that lead to the castle dungeons, rope bridges, towers and slides.

Here are some of the great things you can see, do and discover for the perfect family day out…

Activities As well as Buccaneer Bay and Camelot’s Castle you can captain your own boat with our amazing bumper boats, soak your family and friends in water wars, try out our electric tractors and diggers, we even have an assault course, playpark, giant sand pit, trampolines, ringo sledging, a giant aerial runway and jumping pillows to keep you amused!

Our undercover Play N’ Wild adventure barn has three giant drop slides and a two storey soft play area suitable for all ages.

Animals As well as all our fun activities we have many different animals for you to meet and learn all about such as Fennec Foxes, Monkeys, Lemurs, Camels, Tapirs, Meerkats and Skunks.

For more information, open times and ticket prices visit www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk

Win a Family Ticket to Heads of Ayr Farm Park – worth £42.50!

Two lucky readers will each win a family ticket to the fabulous Heads of Ayr Farm Park which admits 5 people (max 2 adults). Whatever the weather, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do, with activities for all ages. There are almost 50 different types of animal, each with its own particular charm.

Meet them, touch them, feed them! You could play all day at the farm park! It’s packed with fantastic activities like indoor and outdoor play areas, Quads and Boats, thrilling Ringo Sledging, Camelot Castle and the Water Wars and much more!

Visit our new PIRATE BAY and climb aboard! Ship ahoy me hearties!!!

To enter, simply visit www.glasgowwestendmag. co.uk, click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there. Closing date Friday May 16th.

Good luck!

30 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

This Spring, Do What You Have Been Meaning To Do For Ages... Discover Over 550 Years of History Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world. Originally located on High Street in the city centre near Glasgow Cathedral, in 1870 the University relocated to Gilmorehill today, where it continues to watch over the bustling city and picturesque tennements of Glasgow’s West End. The second largest example of Gothic Revival architecture in Britain (after the palace of

Westminster) today the University of Glasgow is renowned not only as a site of remarkable intellectual, scientific and medical achievements, but also as an international tourist attraction, due to its collection of over 100 listed buildings.

This walking tour lasts approximately one hour and will take you on a fascinating journey around some of the University›s most significant spots - from philosopher Thomas

Tours University of Glasgow

discover over 550 years of history

leaving from the visitor centre

2pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday tickets from the tour guide or online www.src.glasgow.ac.uk/tours

West End Life Magazine

Reid’s tombstone and the atmospheric cloisters, to the very same staircase Lord Kelvin would take from his house to his laboratory. Discover the connections between James Watt, Adam Smith and Isabella Elder, whose names are all inscribed on the University’s Memorial Gates.

The University of Glasgow dominates the artistic, literary and bohemian West End of Glasgow. With stunning views overlooking Kelvingrove Museum and Kelvingrove Park, the tour is an essential part of any visitor›s experience of Glasgow.

All guides are also fulltime students at the University of Glasgow and are happy to answer questions during the tour.

Our guides will also be happy to allow access to the Gilchrist Postgraduate Club after your tour if you would like refreshments or something to eat. Open 10am 11pm Monday-Saturday and 12 noon - 11pm Sunday. The club serves a selection of hot and cold beverages, paninis, sandwiches, nachos and a lovely range of home-baking.

Tickets can be purchased from guides or online: Adult: £10.00 Concessions: £8.00 Family: (2 adults & 2 children) £25.00 Under 18: £5.00 Under 5: free

Private or group tours can be arranged for Mon - Sun 0900–1900, outside of regular scheduled tours. These must be booked in advance. If you are part of a small group of just 3 or 4, or a larger group of 100 and would like to arrange a tour, please contact: boxoffice@src.gla.ac.uk for rates. www.westendlife.biz | 31

Local Easter Events Easter Egg Trail at Pollok House For the seventh year running, Cadbury are supporting the National Trust for Scotland to bring you the 2014 Easter Egg trails.

Bring Cadbury magic to your family by joining in at one of our Easter Egg Trails! Follow the clues, answer the questions and complete the challenges to find your way to a prize just for you!

This year there are 16 trails in Scotland with the closest being Pollok House, the trails are free and are on every day from 18th–21st April.

Visit: www.eastereggtrail.com for more details

Easter Eggstravaganza at Mugdock Country Park Sunday 20th April 2-4pm Celebrate all things spring-like and join in with the chick hunt and lots of other cracking activities!

Remember to bring decorated eggs for the competition and hard boiled eggs for the rolling race and egg assault course.

Activities will be based around the Visitor Centre.

Egg-stravaganza at Kelvingrove Park There are many different kinds of birds, which vary greatly in the nests they build and the eggs they lay! Come and join our Egg hunt to discover who they belong too! Events are on in Kelvingrove Art Gallery as well as Kelvingrove park by the pond Saturday 19th April and Sunday 20th April,1–4pm in Museum, 1–3pm in Park For more information call 07872 814912 or email: sarah-jayne.forster@rspb.org.uk

Easter Sports Camps Broomhill Camps - Catalan Soccer Hyndland Secondary School: 7th–11th & 14th–18th April. Camps 10am to 12 noon.

Broomhill Camps - Multi Sports Broomhill Primary School: 7th–11th & 14th–18th April.

For more information see: www.broomhillcamps.com

Klear giveaways and certificates for all. These lessons are open to members and non-members.

Visit www.ski-glasgow.org for booking information.

Hillhead Tennis Club Week 1: 7th-11th April Week 2: 14th-18th April Visit: www.hillheadtennis.co.uk for details

For a complete list of Easter Events visit: www.mugdockcountry-park.org.uk

Spring Ski School!

Glasgow Ski and Snowboard Centre, Bellahouston Park Y Week 1: 7th–11th April Week 2: 14th–18th April The school runs Monday to Friday, with either morning or afternoon sessions. Children must be at least six years old for skiing and eight years old for boarding, but all levels of ability are catered for. There’s full supervision throughout the day, and Krystal

32 | West End Life – April/May 2014

Engineer It! this Easter at Glasgow Science Centre Have a cracking Easter holiday this April with a family day out at Glasgow Science Centre - open every day 10am till 5pm!

Alongside hundreds of interactive exhibits to explore across 3 huge floors, there’s eggstra entertainment in the shape of the ever popular, ‘Egg Drop Challenge’ - where you can compete as a family or group to ensure your precious egg cargo survives a drop from a great height.

See if your engineering skills hit the target in ‘Stomp Rockets’, or get creative with ‘Junk Yard Construction’. Visit: www.glasgowsciencecentre.org for more details @westendlife

Adventures for the Easter Holidays A Day Out in Ayrshire Culzean Castle and Country Park With its dramatic clifftop setting, Robert Adam architecture, fascinating history and beautiful surroundings, it’s easy to see why Culzean Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions.

Surrounded by Culzean Country Park, a 242 hectare estate encompassing lush woodland, landscaped gardens and rugged coastline, this 18th-century Scottish castle couldn’t be better placed for a family day out.

You could easily spend an entire day exploring the country park alone, but with so many treasure-filled rooms to see inside the castle, it’s well worth making time to enjoy both elements of this magnificent historic attraction.

For more details about this and loads of other National Trust attractions visit www.nts.org.uk Go Ape, the UK’s No. 1 Forest Adventure Glentress Forest, Peebles: Built on the hillside within the beautiful

West End Life Magazine

Glentress Forest (part of Tweed Valley Forest Park), Go Ape Tree Top Adventure makes good use of the valley for some jaw dropping exposure, and features their highest zip wire over the reservoirs in the valley.

Take to the trees and speed down zip slides. They’re part of an exciting course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and crossings; all set high above the forest floor.

Visit goape.co.uk for more details Family adventures in the Scottish Borders Glentress, Peebles is probably the best biking centre in Britain having won several acclaimed awards. Apart from a buzzing

atmosphere it has brilliant trails of all grades to suit young and old alike. It also has a brand new state of the art £8.5m visitor centre.

Visit: www.7stanesmountainbiking.com for more information The Inaugural John Muir Festival 2014 Running from 17th- 26thApril, the inaugural John Muir Festival marks the official opening of the John Muir Way. The Festival involves community participation, artistled events and large-scale public performances at selected locations along the 134 mile route.

Thousands are expected to attend the key John Muir Festival events at Falkirk, Dunbar and Loch Lomond but there are smaller programmed events scheduled daily for ten hotspots along the John Muir Way. With more than 70 other events taking place in association with the Festival. There is something for everyone and it’s happening at a location near you.

Visit www.johnmuirfestival. com for details of all the events including one at Glasgow’s Botanic gardens.

Edinburgh Zoo Meerkat Easter Egg Trail Dates: 17th-21st April Meerkats love to eat eggs and we’ve started to notice some eggs have been dotted throughout the zoo by our mischievous meerkats!

So why not visit Edinburgh Zoo this Easter and become a meerkat explorer and help find the hidden eggs that have been mysteriously stashed around the park.

Armed with a secret meerkat trail map, you can use your detective skills to find the hidden locations and uncover where the eggs may lie. When you reveal each new location you will be faced with an exciting meerkat question to answer and also learn an interesting fact about the meerkats and where they come from.

Once you’ve discovered all the eggs and completed the trail, you can collect a chocolaty treat and also get the chance to win a meerkat goodie bag! www.westendlife.biz | 33

Will your kids be climbing

the walls this holiday?

We hope so. And they certainly will at Glasgow Climbing Centre before abseiling back down again.

The Centre, converted from a church on Paisley Road West, runs fun-packed and challenging day camps throughout the holiday for children The camps are on every week day and are open to youngsters aged from seven to 17 whether they’ve climbed before or not.

Inside the Centre the wall are fitted with special climbs for people of different abilities. Camp participants will be given full instruction, and attached to the end of a rope by a harness for safety.

Learning to climb is about teamwork, having fun and planning your way to the top – anyone can do it and it’s perfectly safe.

A camp session lasts four hours and includes all the necessary equipment and lunch. Towards the end of the day they’ll be abseiling from the spire of the church.

For more information about how to learn the ropes of climbing contact the centre on 0141 427 9550, reception@glasgowclimbingcentre.co.uk or visit www.glasgowclimbingcentre.co.uk.

The SenTry Box TrADITIonAL ToyS

Don’t Climb The Walls Indoors Looking For Things to Do this Easter…

Climb Ours Instead!

Day Camp - for children 7-17. A fantastic four hour session that includes; climbing, games, abseiling from the spire and a delicious lunch in the cafe. £27.50

Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm, Sun 11 - 5pm A Eggcellent range of Easter gifts and goodies!

Cuddly Easter bunnies and lambs, Easter decorations; paper chains, bunting, baskets, bonnets, egg dyes, felt bags, kits for egg & spoon races, egg decorating and Easter Egg Hunts and more...

All at pocket money prices!

Tel: 0141 334 6070 175 Great George Street, Glasgow G12 8AQ (Beside Hillhead Underground)

34 | West End Life – April/May 2014

Holiday Program - A fun climbing sessions for all ages and abilities. The instructor will have all the kids climbing and playing games. £13.00 Family Sessions - 1 hour of instruction for families with younger children. Up to 4 people including children 4+ yrs. £45.00 Group Taster Sessions – 1 hour 45 minutes of full on climbing, for groups 7yrs+. Max 6 per group.

Call now to book and make your Easter that little more adventurous!

534 Paisley Rd West, Glasgow G51 1RN Tel: 0141 427 9550 (Main Reception) E: reception@glasgowclimbingcentre.co.uk www.glasgowclimbingcentre.co.uk @westendlife

Join us in The Tea Room at the Botanics for a delicious meal or a quick and tasty snack. We are located in the heart of the iconic Glasgow Botanic Gardens, and our tea room has a cosy indoor O seating area as well as a beautiful outdoor area, which allows you to enjoy your food whilst taking in the stunning surroundings.

We offer a variety of afternoon tea options, soups and sandwiches, and an appealing selection of cakes and pastries which can be enjoyed with a choice of Fairtrade loose leaf tea and coffee.

Go Ape is Scotland’s p number one Tree To een Qu to ad He Adventure. fun for rk Pa t res Fo Elizabeth Zip on g kin ta , es in the tre s, Rope Wires, Tarzan Swing ty of Ladders and a varie

sings.

Obstacles and Cros

o.uk Book at goape.c 643 9215 or call 0845

Min age: 10 years.

Min height: 1.40m.

Supervision ratios apply.

West End Life Magazine

rk,

Forest Pa Queen Elizabeth Aberfoyle

www.westendlife.biz | 35

out of bounds for a fast paced, fun filled day, visit turnberry adventures on the ayrshire coast

Enjoy a variety of exciting adventures perfect for kids and adults.

Try quad biking, archery, waterzorbing and more in the great outdoors.

adventures from

£20

*per

person

*T&C’s apply.

For more information or to book, please call 0131 333 0066 or email activities@turnberryadventures.co.uk

36 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

P

Turn

berr

Enjoy a fun filled day for both adults and children at Turnberry Adventures. Experience the great outdoors and try a range of exciting activities all in the fresh Ayrshire air.

Located amongst 800 acres of countryside is a whole host of adventures that will make your pulse quicken and your heart race! Experience off road driving on a specially designed track 4x4 in a Land Rover Defender or negotiate across rugged terrain on Yahama Grizzly Quad bikes where you will explore hills, woods and ponds in a fun quad safari.

Why not bring the kids for a fun family day out? Let them try to walk on water in an inflatable zorb in the Turnberry loch or hit

West End Life Magazine

y Adv

the spot with some archery in an impressive five lane facility. They can also whizz round a specially designed junior quad circuit, under the supervision of a fully qualified instructor.

A range of shooting activities are also available to experience, including air rifle and clay pigeon shooting.

Whether you are an individual, a couple, a family or a group, you’ll have an adventure that will create lasting memories.

Turnberry Adventures also specialises in stag & hen days as well as corporate away days looking for outdoor team building events which can include our Wildgoose GPS Challenge.

entur

es

Why not make a day of it and enjoy a delicious lunch in the Tappie Toorie restaurant or an Afternoon Tea in the Grand Tea Lounge, within the iconic Turnberry hotel, located within a short distance from Turnberry Adventures? The hotel’s popular Sunday Brunch also runs on the first and third Sunday of every month.

For further information on Turnberry Adventures, including opening times and prices, visit www.turnberryadventures.co.uk or call 0131 333 0066. www.westendlife.biz | 37

Twiddling your thumbs wondering how to keep the kids entertained during the Easter break or any weekend?! The Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium just 25 minutes from Glasgow can certainly help you out there!

It’s home to over 1,000 animals including Cammy the only sea turtle in Scotland, our much loved Asian short clawed otters, and the largest collection of sharks in Scotland – not all in the one pool, don’t worry!

Octonauts are at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond - 29th

March - 5th May. Visitors will dive into action with the Octonauts, the team of undersea adventure heroes from CBeebies.

Young fans of the TV show will embark on an exciting mission where they can meet Kwazii & Peso! See website for more details at: www.visitsealife.com/loch-lomond The Aquarium offers arguably the most stunning views out over Loch Lomond and even boasts a 350 seat cinema. Regular talks and feeding sessions are on throughout the day to ensure that your visits are both educational and informative.

Looking for that ‘ULTIMATE’ special occasion for your kids (or even the big kids!)? Kids

38 | West End Life – April/May 2014

L

parties are available from £12 per child, but for that truly magical experience join them on their once in a lifetime ‘sleepovers’ in their ocean tunnel – perfectly safe, we promise! This is a night you will never forget! To find out more, visit www.visitsealife.com/ lochlomond.

WIN a Family Ticket to Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium! Your chance to win a fab, free, family day out! It’s easy to enter, simply visit www.glasgowwestendmag. co.uk , click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there.

Closing date Friday 2nd May.

@westendlife

A Family Business Since 1994 Where it’s Chemistry, not Chemicals

Professional Cleaners of carpets, curtains, upholstery and leather We are the proud recipients of the National Award for Perpetual Excellence for our Carpet, Curtain and Upholstery Cleaning In the West End since 1994

When only the best will do, call for a free, no obligation quotation: Phone us free on 0800 298 1295 Or Bearsden office: 0141 943 2305 Hillington office: 0141 892 6300 All 24 hour lines 20oz can of E E R F al ous Profession n, our World Fam with every clea Spot remover st May 2014 31 valid until the EL Please quote W

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www.westendlife.biz | 39

THE GLASGOW

BUDDHIST CENTRE

The Glasgow Buddhist Centre has offered classes in meditation and Buddhism for 40 years, helping people become more positive and calm and to lead more meaningful lives.

Forthcoming Events Life With Full Attention An 8 week mindfulness course open to those who have learned the Mindfulness of Breathing and Metta Bhavana meditation practices.

Starts Tuesday 15 April, 7 – 9.30pm. Cost: £130/65 concession, including course book.

Mindfulness Meditation Day Introducing the Mindfulness of Breathing meditation practice.

Sunday 4 May, 10.30am – 4.30pm. Cost: £30/20 concession.

Essentials of Buddhism Wednesdays, 7.30 – 9.40pm for 6 weeks. Cost: £66/33 concession.

Start dates: 23 April, 11 June.

Regular drop-in meditation classes for beginners & regulars on Wed 12.30 - 1pm and Thursdays from 10.30am - 12 noon.

For Yoga and Tai Chi courses, please see our website.

329 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3HW Tel: 0141 333 0524 Email: gbc@glasgowbuddhistcentre.com www.glasgowbuddhistcentre.com

Raeburn Career Coaching Need help to find a job?

Experienced career coach can help you to: • Work out what you want from your career • Identify the skills you can offer • Network to find out about job opportunities • Market yourself to potential employers • Prepare university/college applications

Tel: 07795 844 261

Before

40 | West End Life – April/May 2014

raeburncareercoaching.co.uk

After

@westendlife

A fantastic new shop has opened at 498 Great Western Road, offering a wide range of awardwinning meals and puddings for your freezer that look and taste homemade. COOK Glasgow is open for business 7 days a week with a home delivery service on offer for many Glasgow postcodes.

COOK’s dishes are made by hand using exactly the same techniques and ingredients that a good domestic cook would use at home, so everything looks and tastes homemade. As proof of its handmade nature, the name of the individual chef who cooked each dish is printed on the packaging. Dishes range from Lasagne al Forno and Hearty Fisherman’s Pie to Salmon en Croutes and slow cooked Lamb Shanks. There are amazing authentic curries and indulgent desserts such as Chocolate Truffle Torte and White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake.

This Spring, you can take advantage of COOK’s Leg of Lamb offer—they’ve done all the hard work for your Sunday lunch providing a delicious whole Leg of Lamb dressed with olive oil and mint, Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary, Peas & Leeks with a Lemon & Herb Butter and a traditional gravy. Just £30 while stocks last.

For more information, call 0141 334 0302 or email glasgow.westend@cookfood.net

Now you have an excuse not to cook!

Transform your kitchen without buying a new one Have you always wanted the kitchen of your dreams, but can’t quite justify paying the expensive price tag that comes with it?

Now you can by just swapping the doors and worktops. choice of Doors, Worktops, • Huge Appliances, Sinks & Taps deposit balance on completion • 50% From • doors to complete kitchens

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www.westendlife.biz | 41

42 | West End Life – April/May 2014

@westendlife

Q&A: Why should I have an energy assessment on my home?

What does an energy assessment entail?

A trained assessor will spend 30-minutes or so in your home taking measurements and observations to plug into a computer programme. They will also ask questions about your energy usage.

What do the results mean?

They will give you a measurement of how energy-efficient your home is. And furnish you with recommendations for reducing your energy usage.

Do I have to do anything?

No, not at all. Although you might find making your home more energy efficient is easier (and cheaper) than you think.

But I’ve got insulation in the loft, why do I need an assessment?

There’s much more to it than insulation. And sometimes we find that the insulation isn’t deep enough to meet today’s recommended levels. Besides, there are plenty of other things you might not be aware of.

How much will the measures cost me?

That depends. Some don’t cost anything and others have funding that we can help you access. You might find some of the measures recommended can be done under the Green Deal.

West End Life Magazine

What’s the Green Deal then?

The Green Deal is a financial mechanism that lets people pay for some of the cost of energy-efficiency improvements though savings on their fuel bills.

I don’t want the upheaval.

Some energy saving measures can be as simple as installing a different kind of light bulbs and remembering to close the curtains at night time.

Light blubs? Surely they don’t make too much difference?

Lighting can consume up to 25 per cent of a household’s electricity. LED bulbs use between 2 and 17 watts, which compare very favourably to ‘old-fashioned’ 100w incandescent bulbs. They also last on average more than 50 times longer.

But I don’t NEED an assessment, do I? If you’re planning to sell your home or rent it out you will need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which is a more formalised version of the assessment. You’ll also need an EPC to access the Green Deal.

Contact Ian on 0141 443 6792 or 075500 11820 or email to: sales@streetwiseenergy.co.uk. www.westendlife.biz | 43

Festival and Music Guide There is so much going on in Glasgow and the West of Scotland throughout the Spring and summer this year that we could fill the entire magazine with listings. However what we have done is to select some of the best events and some of the more interesting to highlight.

The Lark above the Trenches Music to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of WW1, Monday 28 April at 12:00 Venue: Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Prices: Standard £9.50 Concession £7.50 Address: 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB Martin Stephenson & The Daintees Now resident in Scotland, the respected Geordie songwriter performs with his band The Daintees.

Friday 2 May at 18:00 Venue: Oran Mor Address: 731–735 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 8QX

44 | West End Life – April/May 2014

Rick Wakeman’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth The most affable man in progressive rock celebrates the 40th anniversary of his solo concept opus based on the Jules Verne novel, for which he will be joined by the Jules Verne Symphony Orchestra, the English Rock Ensemble and lashings of state-of-the-art effects.

Tuesday 6 May at 18:00 Venue: Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre Prices: Standard: £40 Address: Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW Phone: 0141 248 3000

Michael Bolton Performing his greatest hits and songs from the new album ‘Hitsville’, Michael Bolton has won multiple Grammys for Best Male Vocalist, sold more than 53 million records, released nine No.1 singles and received countless other honours throughout his career as a singer, songwriter and humanitarian.

Friday 16 May at 17:30 Venue: Glasgow Royal Concert Hall Prices: £25 Address: 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY @westendlife

Acoustic Affair - Tia McGraff Canadian singer/songwriter Tia McGraff will be visiting the UK and Ireland as part of a World Tour in support of her new album Break These Chains, the follow up to Diversity which was named the Hamilton Music Awards Country Recording of the Year upon release in 2010.

Saturday 7th June, 7:00pm Venue: Centre for Contemporary Arts Address: 350 Sauchiehall Street Glasgow G2 3JD Prices: £14 + £1 booking fee RSNO Chamber Series: Enchanting Fantasy Chamber music by Debussy and Saint-Saëns.

Sunday 15 June 2014 at 17:30 Venue: Cottier Theatre Prices: Standard £8 under 26s: £5 Address: 93-95 Hyndland Street, Glasgow, G11 5BX Glasgow International Jazz Festival Tuesday 24th June to 1st July The Glasgow Jazz Festival has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz, including Miles Davis and Sarah Vaughan. The 2013 festival featured Leo Blanco, the Blind Boys of Alabama and Georgie Fame; check www.jazzefest.co.uk for this year’s venues and artists.

The Wickerman Festival!

Tickets are on sale now for the (lucky) 13th festival which will be held on Friday 25th & Saturday 26th July!

Wickerman is one of the UK’s best-loved independent music festivals and is now entering its13th consecutive year. With ten stages featuring an eclectic and exciting mix of leading artists, alternative acts and up-and-coming talent, the two day summer party caters for all musical tastes. The Wickerman site is a wonderland for adults and children alike with a cinema, fun fair, circus entertainment, segway hire, mountain biking and array of arts and craft activities scattered throughout its fields. High quality yurts, tipis and cloud houses and spacious campsites complete the magical festival experience. www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk Confirmed line-up: Dizzee Rascal • Del Amitri • The Feeling • Alabama 3 Martha Reeves & The Vandellas • The Zombies Big Country • Finding Albert Win Tickets to Wickerman Festival – see our competition details on page 12

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• 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.

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 45

Spring has arrived!

Despite the overnight cold temperatures and wet weather, we definitely are in spring – the Snowdrops have gone over and the Crocus’ and Daffs are out.

And not a moment too soon! The mild winter does mean, however, that pests and diseases in the garden will flourish this year, so it is especially important to ensure your garden is at peak health in order to shrug off any problems. Here are a few things you can do to help keep your plants fighting fit: ■ Clear leaf debris from the base of plants ■ Cut out congested stems in trees and large shrubs ■ Apply a Nitrogen rich fertilizer to your plants ■ Keep an eye out for diseased foliage and buds, remove them and bin them (don’t compost them!)

The deluge of rain that came with the mild winter caused problems for our lawns, and the ground has remained soggy underfoot in a lot of places. One reason not to mow your lawn is if it really is wet – the grass gets torn and the weight of the mower can leave big muddy marks. It’s worth bearing in mind, however, that temperature is not a particular issue with lawn mowing – if it’s dry enough, it’s not frozen, and the grass needs cutting, then cut it! Spring is also the time for scarifying your lawn – using a motorised rake to remove moss and thatch from your grass. A very small lawn can be done manually with a spring tine rake but it is very hard work, so be warned! For lawns of any size, hire a scarifier or get a contractor in. We will be spending the next four weeks scarifying many thousands of square metres of grass and putting down tonnes of fertilizer!

46 | West End Life – April/May 2014

Here are a few other jobs that you can be getting on with in the garden at the moment: ■ Prune Dogwoods, Buddleia, hardy Fuchsia and willows grown for winter stems ■ Lift & divide herbaceous perennials (free plants!)

■ Transplant Snowdrops, far preferable to buying the bulbs ■ Repair lawn edges ■ Hoe over borders to break up germinating weed growth ■ A bit of hard graft now will reap benefits for later in the year!

Thomas Angel MI Hort is Managing Director of Thomas Angel Gardens Ltd (www.thomasangel.com) and Lawn Angel® (www.lawnangel.com)

Residential garden maintenance Commercial grounds maintenance Communal gardens maintenance Recommended by garden designers www.thomasangel.com info@thomasangel.com 0845 368 2111 or 07985 934846

@westendlife

THE GLASGOW ACADEMY Kelvinbridge, Milngavie & Newlands

You want only the best for your growing family.

So do we.

That’s why so many parents trust our Nursery.

Funded places available Our Nurseries at Kelvinbridge, Milngavie and Newlands take children from the age of 3.

For an information pack, call Suzanne on 0141 342 5494 or e-mail her at exrel@tga.org.uk

www.theglasgowacademy.org.uk West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 47

JONNY GRAY

RUAN PIENAAR

FRIDAY 18 APRIL, 7.35PM SCOTSTOUN

GLASGOW V EDINBURGH 1872 Cup...the rugby rivalry continues!

DAVID DENTON

CHRIS CUSITER

GLASGOW V ULSTER SATURDAY 26 APRIL (tbc) SCOTSTOUN

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!*

Call:0844 800 3490 or visit glasgowwarriors.org GREAT RUGBY GREAT PEOPLE GREAT TIMES

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48 | West End Life – April/May 2014

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Tel lines open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Booking fees apply. *Buy in advance & save £5 on adult, senior citizen & student matchday prices!