West End Life Magazine June/July 2014

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June/July 2014

Festival Fever There’s Something for Everyone

SEE Inside for ideas and

places to go for ALL the family

Discover Summer

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4 The best thing for…….

9 Are the ‘Good Times’ here?

16-23 West End Festival

Special Supplement

27 Ideas for entertaining the children this summer

39 Energy Saving: Bio Mass Fuel

16

45 The most important part of the gardening year.

Contributors this issue: Ellen Arnison, Brian Milne Thomas Angel,

27

45

Places to visit Blair Drummond Safari Park

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28

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Finlaystone Country Estate

June/July Issue 22, 2014 Publisher: West End Life Deals Ltd Co editors:

Charles Briggs

Deanston Distillery

Noreen Ferguson

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 help your summer go with a swing.

The best thing for making sure you’ve got a seat… is to book early for the Magners Summer Nights music festival in the newly done up bandstand in Kelvingrove Park on August 7, 10, 14 and 16. On the stage will be Teenage Fanclub, Squeeze, Alison Moyet and Steve Earle.

canal towpath so you can pedal away from pesky traffic.

The best thing for the long route to the Games… The Riverside Museum is hosting a display called The Road From Delhi which charts the four-year journey to Glasgow 2014.

The best thing for a cunning plan for lunch… track down the new Hyndland Fox in Clarence Drive for some amazing, fresh foodstuffs, great banter and the new must-visit place.

The best thing for getting out of town... head out of the city and have an adventure. Go Ape in Aberfoyle, Family activities at Turnberry and Loch Lomond Wakeboard come recommended.

The best thing for getting on your bike… no excuses now.

If you pick up one of the City Council’s cycle route guides and you ‘ll find it packed with ideas for linking up the Kelvinway and the

The best thing for stress-free parking… is to leave the car at home and get into the leafy west end by bus, train or underground.

No excuses, the walk will do you good.

The best thing for Beginning the Beguine…. Get along to Kelvingrove Gallery and Museum on 21 June at 3pm for a performance by Scotland’s top Barbershop Choir. They’ll be grooving to popular American songs by the likes of Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and Oscar Hammerstein.

The best thing for waterbourne nostalgia… Take a trip ‘doon the watter’ on the Waverley to eat chips and possibly get rained on in the finest Victorian resorts on the Clyde. Visit www. waverleyexcursions.co.uk.

The best thing for a dead parrot… Get tickets to the live screening of the Monty Pythons’ reunion gig. On July 20 they will be on the stage at the O2, but you can see them at the Grosvenor Cinema in Ashton Lane.

The best thing for musical kids (or just noisy ones)… Kelvin Music School, Belmont Lane, is opening in July for music tuition in voice and instruments.

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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.

Alan Robinson has a Degree in Fine Art and has been making stained glass professionally since 2006. Working as Ramoyle Glass Studio, he lives in Dunblane, but works from a glass studio in Glasgow.

He designs in traditional and contemporary styles, working closely with the customer.

Ramoyle Glass has wide experience in repairing, restoring and reproducing traditional leaded and stained glass found throughout Glasgow. They are able to work to a very high standard in traditional techniques of painted, etched and stained glass. They provide a complete service of design, making and fitting.

6 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

Get your kids off the starting line this summer With Glasgow 2014 about to take over the city, it might seem that everyone has gone a bit crazy for sport.

It’s understandable with so much high-quality competition going on around us that we’re all going to be infected by enthusiasm to get the trainers on and get out there.

This summer, then, will be an ideal time to sign your sporty youngsters up to a funpacked week at Broomhill Camp.

The parent-powered sports club started seven 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 – are led in an enthusiastic manner providing all participants with a challenge in a friendly competitive sports environment.

The Camps run from June 30 for the whole six weeks of the summer holidays – either as morning only sessions (Catalan Soccer Camp) or all day (multi sport camp).

The proven programmes for all abilities 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 touch rugby, basketball, football, tennis, hockey 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.

West End Life Magazine

It’s hoped many young sportspeople from Broomhill go on to make sports part of their lives. A Broomhill team has recently joined the Scottish Lowland League, so their progress will be watched closely.

For more information 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 www.westendlife.biz | 7

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Good times? by: Brian Milne

Recent weeks have seen some interesting statistics released that, on the face of it, provide confusing and conflicting reports on the state of the Scottish economy.

Firstly, it was announced, to not inconsiderable fanfare, that Scottish house prices are now only 2.4% (£3,900) below their pre-recession peak, with the average house price having risen by £6,435 in the last year. The average price of a property in Hyndland is now £243,983.

Furthermore, in April, the Scottish Building Federation published statistics to show there was an almost £1bn rise in construction output in 2013.

Add to the mix a healthy, if not booming, retail sector and the 75% rise in corporate liquidations in Scotland in the first quarter of 2014, suddenly jars unexpectedly.

However, the idea that insolvency numbers are inversely co-related to the health of the economy is something I’ve touched on before, and if any co-relation exists, it’s difficult to identify due to the noise of other related factors.

Anecdotal industry evidence suggests that both directors and banks are becoming more keen to unravel problem properties that have been causing them headaches over the last few years, as selling now allows them to minimise their balance sheet losses.

So, whilst the number of administration West End Life Magazine

appointments has stayed static UK wide, I would expect to see overall numbers stay static at the least over the coming quarters for this reason.

This also has an impact on consumers: rising house prices means more equity, more equity means more assets and more assets may mean creditors are more willing to sequestrate individuals if it increases the chance that they can get their money back.

In other words, we should all be cautious about hailing the fall in personal insolvency numbers as another sign that the good times are back.

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.

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www.westendlife.biz | 9

Making a song and dance about breast cancer Inspired by Kylie Minogue, fellow breast cancer survivor Anita Neilson has written a musical to be performed during Breast Cancer Awareness Week in October.

Packed to the sequins with Kylie’s songs, Your Disco Needs You promises to be a heartwarming, toe tapping riot of fun… but with a serious message.

Anita said: “When I was 40 I had a karaoke event where I donned the white suit, which I made, and sang Can’t Get You Out Of My Head.

“One year later, four months after Kylie’s diagnosis, I was

diagnosed with breast cancer too.

Seeing Kylie’s dignified handling of her treatment and positive outlook helped me explain to my son, who was only nine at the time, that, like Kylie, I would be fine too.”

Bringing together her love of the Australian singer and her desire to raise funds for breast cancer charities, she wove Kylie’s songs into the story of some friends brought together to save a dance class from closure.

Kylie’s own choreographer Tim Noble has agreed to put together the dance moves for the

10 | West End Life – June/July 2014

show, which will be staged at the Mitchell Theatre.

As well as raising funds for the three cancer charities closest to her heart - Macmillan Cancer, Breakthrough Breast Cancer and MBrace, a 12-week exercise programme designed specifically for breast cancer patients - Your Disco Needs You will also have a couple of important messages.

There will be information about the value of exercise during treatment and how to carry out regular breast examinations.

And now Anita is ready to cast her sparkling show. If you’re interested keep an eye on the website, www.ydny-musical.com, for audition dates.

The website is also the place to buy tickets and to keep up with the latest news about the show as well as find out about auditions! Are you a star in the making?

@westendlife

Cu l c r e• u c h• Cas tl e COUNTRY ESTATE

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Looking for somewhere different to eat? Why not come and experience fine Scottish cuisine throughout the year at historic Culcreuch Castle Hotel set in our own private 1600 acre estate. We are within easy reach of Glasgow, Stirling & Edinburgh.

Paul O’Malley our Head Chef has created menus for all tastes and occasions. Enjoy a candlelit dinner in our elegant oak panelled Dining Room or for something less formal, enjoy the service and wide varied menu in our Dungeon Diner restaurant. Weather permitting, you can eat outside whilst children take advantage of our play area.

For private celebration meals our Laird’s Hall Dining Room can accommodate up to 30 people and the Galbraith Hall up to 110.

Afternoon tea can also be booked in our Drawing Room overlooking the lawns and loch.

From our Poached Shetland salmon starter, our free range St Bride’s Chicken main to our homemade meringues using Betty’s eggs topped with Scottish berries and Katy Rogers’ ice cream, we have planned our menus to showcase our local produce and Scotland’s natural larder. Why not extend your visit with a walk around the Estate or better still treat yourself to a romantic night away in a Scottish Castle?

Please visit our website to view all our menus.

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DM DESIGN: Top quality kitchens

and bedrooms for 30 years

One of the country’s leading kitchen design companies, DM Design has celebrated 30 years in the home improvement industry.

Now, one of the biggest names in Scotland with a state-of-theart factory in Cumbernauld, DM Design started off modestly, by Donald Macleod and his wife Ann working from the kitchen on their home.

Three decades later and the company is still a family firm with the Macleods at its heart. And while the scale of the operation has changed enormously, those same values of creating beautiful kitchens to meet individuals’ needs are exactly the same.

The company’s reputation for quality service, top-notch materials and design-led affordable luxury are what has allowed the company to grow and thrive.

The DM Design factory and first showroom, built in 1993 to meet increasing demand for bespoke kitchens, is still home to the company although it now has branches throughout Scotland West End Life Magazine

with showrooms in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Kirkcaldy, Paisley and Uddingston. The company also moved south of the Border to create home designs in England.

The factory facility is what really sets DM Design apart, because it means that every job for each client is built exactly as required to order, yet the price remains competitive, and the quality of build and installation are consistently high.

Satisfied customers rush to leave glowing reviews. “I am delighted with the final result

and recommend DM Design to anyone,” said one.

Another aspect of the company’s success has been that it keeps up with changing tastes and continues to increase what it has on offer.

The latest endeavour is a purpose-built granite cutting facility, allowing granite and quartz to be cut to a customer’s requirements. This means DM Design can offer this luxury feature at a significantly reduced cost.

However, top-end worktops are not the only part of the jigsaw. DM Design’s highly trained designers combine their knowledge of the products with their expertise about homes in general. To that they add the special ingredient of listening and understanding exactly what a client wants and needs in their home. The details make all the difference.

During the process of the installation, the same commitment to keeping the customer happy remains. Expert craftsmen will do the work quickly and without fuss, clearing up after themselves.

When you think about it, what DM Design does is simple – creates top quality homes at reasonable prices.

Visit our NEW website now! www.dmdesignuk.com www.westendlife.biz | 15

Get your glad rags on –

it’s West End Festival time again!

This year the colourful and flamboyant spirit of the festival goes on for even longer as the annual event’s dates have been extended.

Now the fun starts on Sunday, 1 June and continues – in noisy and energetic fashion – until the final fiesta on Sunday, 29 June.

Of course, the highlight is still the Byres Road parade which will go ahead on Sunday, 8 June and will turn the busy thoroughfare into a non-stop party. Last year 80,000 people turned out for the spectacle.

Liz Scobie, chair of the West End Festival board said: “It just takes some music and dance, some street food and a little bit of

sunshine to make Parade Day one of the happiest days of the year.

“The atmosphere is always relaxed and good natured as the whole community spills out onto Byres Road meeting friends, filling the parks and playing with their children.

“You can see why top planners and architects voted the west end the Best Neighbourhood in Europe. This year is extra special because of the Commonwealth Games, and the Mardi Gras Parade Day Party provides the perfect start to an unforgettable summer.”

With its roots in the community, the Gibson Street Gala is always a favourite feature of the festival.

It began 10 years ago and is still coordinated by local residents, this time supported by Ikea Glasgow.

It kicks off the festival on Sunday 1 June.

A huge festival buzz will be happening around Cottiers Theatre. The annual Cottier Chamber Project (6 to 20 June) will bring together threads of literature, theatre and visual arts.

But this year, the bill includes The Cottier Dance Project with Glasgow’s only professional dance festival. It runs from 23 to 27 June.

The Festival programme includes over 400 events in some 80 venues across the greater west

16 | West End Life – June/July 2014

end, with events ranging from music and theatre to walks, talks and community galas – many events are free to attend.

And the festival isn’t only about spectating. There are many chances for local people to take part in a performance. Among the participation events is the Big Hymn Sing at Wellington Church on Sunday, 15 June.

The city’s vibrant and multicultural side will be on display during a part of the festival. The Glasgow Mela takes place in Kelvingrove Park on Saturday, 7 June and Sunday, 8 June. It brings some of the biggest names in urban, Bhangra and Bollywood music to the city too.

@westendlife

West End Festival – a Series of Walks and Talks Each year during the festival the Friends of Glasgow West (www. fgw.org.uk) run a unique and fascinating series of Walks and Talks throughout the West End. Below you will find a selection from the programme but you can find the complete programme of the Walks and talks at www. westendfestival.co.uk From the Villas of Dowanhill to the Villas of the Clyde Estuary; from Glasgow Cinema to Glasgow Science, there is something for everyone.

For the Walks you should buy a ticket in advance at Barretts Newsagent at 263 Byres Road. No advance booking is required for the Talks.

Sunday 15 June 3:00pm, Hillhead Library

West End - A Great Neighbourhood Kevin Murray, Chairman, Academy of Urbanism.

We all know what a “great neighbourhood” means - but how are these created - or do they just happen? After examining the West End’s unique character, we explore its special sense of place for local people and visitors, from an inspiring “Urbanism” viewpoint, and taking in other UK and European neighbourhoods for comparison.

Monday 16 June 6:30pm, Hillhead Library

Ten Years at Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens In 2004, the refurbishment of the “Main Range” glasshouses was completed, then the “A” Listed Kibble Palace was restored offsite and re-opened in 2006. The Curator’s House became home to the new Tearoom in 2012, and an amazing new Tree Hub is planned West End Life Magazine

for 2014. Ewen Donaldson, General Manager, Glasgow Botanic Gardens will highlight these and other significant milestones of the last decade.”

Thursday 26 June 6:30pm, Hillhead Library

Kelvingrove Bandstand Restoration Built in 1924, Kelvingrove Bandstand and Amphitheatre hosted an extraordinary variety of live music and performance until closure in the 1990s due to disrepair. With support from the public, and various funds, the site is now restored to its former glory.

Laura Bennison, Heritage Officer, and woodcarver Ruth Davies, will provide an insight into the work behind its redevelopment.

Thursday 26 June 6:30pm, Partick Library

Saturday 14 June 2:00pm West End Science A stroll with Ian Mitchell around places associated with eminent scientists who either worked in or were from Glasgow (Black, Kelvin, Lister, Rankine, Ramsay etc) via the University and the Park district.

Thursday 19 June 7:00pm Villas Of Dowanhill This walk, with Ann Laird, focuses on a small area in the centre of Dowanhill, where the Victorians built a superb collection of beautiful villas. We will also compare a Victorian and an Edwardian terrace, touch on Dowanhill vs Kelvinside boundary issues, and visit the splendid interior of St Luke’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Saturday 21 June 2:00pm West End Cinemas A stroll with Gordon Barr and Gary Painter (of scottishcinemas. org) highlighting the architectural history of cinemas, including converted roller-skating rinks, the earliest purpose-built halls, and the peculiarly Scottish “back court” theatres. Our walk covers cinemas that were, that are, and that might have been.

Grand Villas of Clyde Estuary During the Victorian era and earlier, the affluent families of Glasgow who wished to have an escape from the noise and dirt of the city, into a cleaner and quieter setting, were want to build their “second homes” in pleasant surroundings on the Clyde. Thus Alexander “Greek” Thomson was commissioned to design villas in Cove. Fiona Sinclair, Architect and Historian will take a historic photographic trip down the Clyde Estuary to discover some of these grand villas. www.westendlife.biz | 17

18 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

5.1.6 THE GALLERY 5 .1.6 THE GALLERY opened its door 3 months ago in the heart of the west end and to great success, this is a friendly and accessible gallery that only show artists that the directors love. Directors Lorna McNee and Frances Lowrie have been good friends for over 14 years and have worked together in the past.

With a combined experience of over 38 years in the art world, Lorna and Frances know exactly what they are doing.

They show the finest art and simply have a passion for artists and truly love what they do.

There is a unique and vibrant atmosphere in the gallery; you will never walk into this gallery and whisper, although you might sing along!

Competition 5.1.6 The Gallery would like to offer you the opportunity to win an original Oil painting by Lee Robertson.

To be in with a chance to win this beautiful piece of art please go to:

5.1.6 changes their exhibition every month. Get yourself on to this gallery’s mailing list and join them for a glass of wine and good company. Examples of Gallery artists include: Gerard Burns, Alex Johannsen, Scott Naismith, Lee Robertson, Ben Devies Jenkins, Cherylene Dyer and Peter Nardini to name but a few!

They have rooms upstairs and plan on having art classes given by some of Glasgow’s finest artists! Apparently most of them don’t know this yet but when you have been in the business as long as these two women, you inherit great friends! Also planning workshops, talks and other events - Watch this space, Literally !!!

www.westendlife.biz. Click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there.

Or pop into 5.1.6 THE GALLERY and add yourself to the mailing list.

Good luck from the Directors Lorna and Frances.

Opening times Tuesday to Saturday 10 to 6 and Sunday 12 to 5 Or by appointment.

5.1.6 THE GALLERY 516 Great Western Road Glasgow G12 8EL Tel: 0141 328 5419 E: info@516thegallery.com. www.516thegallery.com Lorna McNee, Director Frances Lowrie, Director

Lee Robertson 24/7 solo Exhibition at 5.1.6 THE GALLERY from 1st – 8th June.

This exhibition will open on the 1st of June at 9am for 24 HOURS a day until the 8th of June

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 19

As the official French language and cultural centre for Glasgow and the West of Scotland, the Alliance Française de Glasgow offers French courses for adults and children of all levels throughout the year.

Our teaching activities are complemented by a wide range of cultural and social events.

Would you like to learn French or brush-up on your language skills this summer?

Our intensive and semiintensive courses available for all levels between June and September would be the perfect opportunity for you to do so!

Celebrate the start of the summer and La Fête de la Musique by joining us on Friday 20th June, 8.30pm at the Glad Café, one of Glasgow’s foremost creative venues, where French bands will be performing!

A free event ‘à la française’ to look forward to!

Semi-Intensive and Intensive Courses

FRENCH SUMMER CLASSES 3 Park Circus, Glasgow G3 6AX 0141 331 4080 admin@afglasgow.org.uk www.afglasgow.org.uk

French bands LIVE in concert FRIDAY 20th JUNE 8.30PM

© Atout France/Maurice Subervie

L’Alliance Française de Glasgow

FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE

Free entrance Glad Café, Glasgow

Janet and John –

a festival of designers!

When Janet & John opened their arts and craft shop last August on the first floor of De Courcy’s Arcade, they exhibited works by around twenty Scottish artists and crafters. That number has now increased to over forty.

Everything in the shop is designed, created and crafted in Scotland by Scottish-based artists, showcasing the cream of Scottish creativity.

There is something to suit every taste and pocket, from handmade buttons for £1, to original artwork for over £100, with plenty in between, including a wide range of handmade soaps, greetings cards, jewellery and mugs for “less than a tenner”.

Recent additions to the shop include prints of local West End scenes from Allan’s Art; animal prints

by Hannah Longmuir and from Dwelling Bird; mugs, coasters and prints from A Pair of Blue Eyes; and beautiful fused glass plates from Glass Goes.

20 | West End Life – June/July 2014

Fine Art • Cards Jewellery • Decoupage Hand Knitting Ceramics • Sewing Photography Homewares and Much More!

Unique and hand-crafted artisan products Made in Scotland!

Find us in the heart of the west end at the delightful De Courcy’s Arcade, Cresswell Lane, Hillhead, Glasgow G12 8AA Tel: 07731 768373

www.janetandjohnscotland.com janet@janetandjohnscotland.com www.facebook.com/janetandjohn

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5.30pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm (closed Monday)

@westendlife

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Discover a beautiful range of handmade crafts including handbags, jewellery, accessories and many gift ideas.

• Hand spun and hand woven summer shawls, wraps and scarves in lightweight wool, silk and natural dyed cotton • We personally work with the weavers and craft makers to ensure a quality product perfectly suited to European fashion • Our focus is on quality and we avoid synthetic materials where possible • All our products are ethically sourced

DeCourcy’s Arcade, Cresswell Lane, Glasgow G12 8AA

Telephone 07825 819394

E: himalayandesignhouse@gmail.com

Open: Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sunday 12pm - 5pm, Closed Mon

LET’S CELEBRATE 2014! FABULOUS BLACK LAUNCHES BOTANIC FLORA

Scottish luxury gifts and accessories brand, Fabulous Black has launched its new Botanic Flora silk scarf to celebrate the 20th Commonwealth Games coming to the company’s home city. Designed and handscreen printed in Glasgow, the limited-edition silk scarf features a distinctive design of Scottish West End Life Magazine

flora inspired by the city’s Botanic Gardens.

The centrepiece features the Botanic’s iconic Kibble Palace, one of the most prestigious remaining Victorian iron and glass structures. Built in 1873, it houses tropical plants from around the world. To reflect the Games’ medal categories, Botanic Flora comes in three colour options – gold, silver and bronze – each with a separate colour contrast – signature black, teal and berry respectively.

This summer, Scotland’s largest city welcomes thousands of visitors from across the globe to witness the sporting achievements of the 20th Commonwealth Games. Fabulous Black director, Wendy Smith said: “Glasgow, which in Gaelic means ‘dear, green place’, has many lovely parks and gardens. Botanic Flora

represents one of the city’s bestloved attractions. We hope that visitors to Glasgow will find time to appreciate the beauty of our open spaces.”

Co-director Eleanor Stevenson said: “Glasgow is a very stylish city, crammed full of creativity. We have worked with our talented designers to create a very special accessory to celebrate what is a momentous year for both Glasgow and Scotland as a whole.”

www.fabulousblack.com

www.westendlife.biz | 21

5th–15th

June

Glasgow Science Festival – the perfect chance for kids, adults and families to get up close and personal with the clever, fun stuff!

Ever fancied yourself as the next Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison or Louis Pasteur? Or perhaps you just love to learn about what makes our planet so incredible. The festival presents a varied programme of hands on activity, featuring high quality events that explore STEMM (science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine) and the social and ethical issues surrounding these subjects.

Here are some of the festival highlights: Strathclyde Science Special University of Strathclyde, 7th–8th June, all ages, free admission – just drop in!

Meet scientists at the University of Strathclyde for a weekend of hands-on activities, interactive displays and science-inspired art!

Embark on a journey of natural drug discovery, from rainforest adventures to the laboratory.

Prepare to be wowed under the expert guidance of brainy brain scientists.

Glasgow Science Festival at Kelvingrove 7th–8th June 13:30-16:30 All ages,Free admission, just drop in!

A weekend of fun-filled science activities for all the family at Kelvingrove. Get ready for the games and test your sporting

skills with Glasgow Science Centre’s Fit Lab. Meet University of Glasgow scientists and compare yourself to elite-level athletes at the Science and the Commonwealth Games Roadshow.

Science Sunday University of Glasgow, Wolfson Medical Building, University Avenue 15th June 10:00–16:00 All ages, Free admission, Just drop-in!

Be a scientist for the day and shortcut your way into the world of research at the University of Glasgow’s flagship family event.

Think Science ABC: Animals, Brains and Commonwealth. Our staff and students have created a vast array of shows, workshops and hands-on activities for you to enjoy.

Indestructible Energy 13th June 19:00–20:00 University of Glasgow, Boyd Orr Lecture Theatre All ages, Free admission with online ticket.

Petrol, ping pong balls and cookies – what do they all have in common? Energy! Join Jamie Gallagher for some interactive demonstrations as he burns food, bounces balls and generates electricity. Sponsored by The Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow.

22 | West End Life – June/July 2014

A range of food and drink themed activities for adults called ‘Tasty Science’, including cocktail chemistry…

Black Sparrow, North Street 13th June 18:30–20:00 18+ £15 (bookable at www. glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk) Discover why it’s sometimes better to shake rather than stir your cocktails. Relax, drink in hand, as you discover the magic of mixes and science behind creating cocktails. Ticket includes three cocktails. Hosted by Edinburgh International Science Festival.

And the science behind your hangover the next day…

Hangover Hypothesis DRAM!, Woodlands Road 7th June 14:00–15:30 18+ £10 (bookable at www. glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk) We all have a routine for the morning after the night before, but is it really effective? Edinburgh International Science Festival invites you to bring your own hangover (optional!) as they attempt to harness the power of science to stretch, slurp and scoff it into submission.

Ticket includes a full cooked breakfast and Bloody Mary cocktail.

For the full line up of events or to book ticketed events visit: www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk @westendlife

LeT’S TAKe THIS OUTSIDe! JOIN A CITY WALKING TOUR 12 MAY - 5 OCTOBeR 2014 Investigate Glasgow’s art, architecture and design with our award-winning student guides as we hit the streets to delve into the city’s creative past and present.

The ‘Glasgow Style’ Tour Mon - Sun: 11.15am - 1.30pm Look up to uncover Mackintosh’s Glasgow, his contemporaries’ architectural achievements and Art Nouveau details in the ‘Glasgow Style’.

The ‘Glasgow Miracle’ Tour Fri & Sat: 2.45pm - 5pm explore the ‘Glasgow Miracle’ as we trace the development of the city’s unique contemporary arts scene and remarkable creative regeneration.

“Led by bright and wellinformed students“ Top 10 UK Architecture Tours The Independent

Adult £19.50, Senior / Student £16.00, Under 18 £9.75 Visit us, call or book online Tours depart from the ‘Window on Mackintosh’ +44(0)141 353 4526 West End Life Magazine | 23 GSA Visitor Centre, 164 Renfrew Street, Glasgow G3 6RFwww.westendlife.biz www.gsa.ac.uk/tours

24 | West End Life – June/July 2014

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www.westendlife.biz | 25

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 26 | West End Life – June/July 2014

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What are you going to do with the kids this summer?

It may seem as though we’ve barely finished eating all those Easter chocolates, but the long summer holiday is looming.

And, while we hope for another blissful heatwave, with a bit of forward planning your summer can be just as wonderful and memorable.

Of course, it seems ages away, but it won’t be long before the hairdresser is asking if you’ve been away somewhere yet this year.

Working parents struggle with the long school holidays cobbling together child-care and making sure their children don’t feel abandoned.

For them, the answer might lie in one of the many summer camps or activity sessions. Often these are sporty with Broomhill Sports Club and Glasgow Sports running week-long programmes of activities.

Other organisations also frequently offer fun-packed sessions to keep children busy and teach them something new.

Try your local tennis club, the nearest sailing centre, equestrian stables or athletics club. The intense nature of a week of teaching can improve children’s ability and understanding of the sport considerably.

For those less sporty, there are plenty of opportunities to West End Life Magazine

learn something new or develop a budding skill. A city theatre, try the Citizen’s, will have a summer drama project, as might your nearest dance studio Dance HQ. Of course if you’re at home with your youngsters too this summer, then if you’re all to have a great time, it’s a good idea to do a bit of planning.

A schedule of days out will certainly mean the time passes without them wailing “I’m bored.

I don’t know what to do”.

And days out don’t need to be extravagant either. Firstly, start looking around now for vouchers and discount offers that you can use later.

The likes of Park Life Deals, Itison and Groupon often have special offers that would work in the next few weeks. Please check the small print though. The added advantage of this is you are spreading the cost.

Voucher schemes from supermarkets or big brands are also worth looking at.

Kellogg’s has a promotion at the moment, and ScotRail has a kids-go-free scheme if you travel by train.

There are dozens of things to do locally that don’t cost very much – if anything at all. Most of the country’s museums are free to visit, and if you check

their websites you’ll find a host of activities.

And you might like to consider sprinkling your summer schedule with some awaydays. Within reach of the west end are family adventure days at Turnberry, animal antics at Blairdrummond and a bit of history at Stirling Castle.

When it comes to using energy the Commonwealth Games is going to dominate this summer’s landscape. Of course, your children are too young to make this year’s squad, but there are dozens of ways they can become part of it.

Whether you’re going to follow the baton as it makes its way across the country or seek out activities from the Glasgow 2014 programme – both sporting and culture, there’s plenty going on.

The city is undoubtedly going to be the place to be during the summer of 2014.

www.westendlife.biz | 27

Drive through Wild Animal Reserves, Boat Trips around Chimp Island, Sea Lion Shows, Bird of Prey Centre & Displays, Lemur Land, Pets Farm, Elephant Habitat, Adventure Playground with Pirate Ship, Giant Astraglide, Pedal Boats, Flying Fox, Fun Fair & Amusements, Restaurant, BBQ & Picnic areas. Free Parking.

Open daily – 22nd March to 2nd November 2014 10am – 5.30pm, last admission 4.30pm

28 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is situated approximately 4 miles from Stirling on the A84 heading towards Doune. Set in 120 acres of beautiful woodland, the Safari Park has many attractions and features to appeal to visitors of all ages.

There is so much to see and do it is best to arrive early. Get up close to camels, rhinos, zebras, bison, ankole cattle, deer and not forgetting every ones favourite, the lions, in the Drive through Reserves. Take a boat trip around Chimp Island, marvel at the skills of the sea lions as they perform for you at the daily shows and visit the Bird of

Prey centre and then watch the amazing demonstrations when the falconers fly different birds at each show.

The Safari Park is the only venue in Scotland where you will see giraffes and elephants.

Check out the spacious elephant habitat with public viewing gallery.

Wander through Lemur Land and Pets’ Farm. Let the kids burn off excess energy at the Adventure Playground with Pirate ship and buried treasure or on the Astraglide and Pedal Boats.

For the more adventurous, the Flying Fox is great fun as you whizz across the boating pond.

All the above is included in the ticket price.

Eat in the main Restaurant or at one of the smaller outlets, have a BBQ or bring a picnic. To round off your day, spend some time at the funfair and amusements and not forgetting a visit to the gift shops.

The Safari Park is “wheelchair friendly” with access to the viewing ramps for the lions, tigers, rhinos and elephant house.

Unfortunately, the boat trip cannot accommodate wheelchairs.

For visitors who arrive by public transport or on foot, the Safari Bus will take them around the drive through reserves at no extra charge.

So, for a “wild” day out, look no further than Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park.

Two Family Passes to be WON! YOU could WIN 2 x Family Passes for the Safari Park to be used by 2nd November 2014. Each pass is vaild for a one day visit for 2 adults and 2 children (3-14yrs incl).

To enter just go to: www.westendlife.biz. Click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there.

West End Life Magazine

www.westendlife.biz | 29

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If you still haven’t discovered Finlaystone yet, then you don’t know what you are missing! You really must make it top of your agenda this year for time out with the family.

There are fantastic play areas with an abundance of high adventure activities for the kids including Forts, The Flying Fox, Play Towers, Wigwams, The Finlay’s Phoenix Pirate Ship, swings, slides and climbing frames. Whilst the kids wear themselves out, the adults can think about setting up lunch! There are several picnic and BBQ locations throughout the estate, some with small log cabins in case of bad weather. Just kick back, relax and have fun.

If you are in the mood for a long walk you can stroll through 10 acres of gardens with spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde, pausing to appreciate the special plants and Finlaystone’s renowned beauty. Don’t miss the ‘Smelly’ garden, the intricate Celtic paving or the 70 metre serpentine herbaceous border. Enjoy the sweeping lawns and sculptured hedges, seek out ‘Slave’s Paradise’, tumbling waterfalls and discover the Knott & bog gardens before relaxing at the Tea Room in the walled garden. The Tea Room, recently taken over by the renowned ‘3 Sisters Bake’ is open weekends and during school and bank holidays from 10am-5pm.

Finlaystone is also a popular destination for schools and nurseries. If you are a school/nursery trip organiser and wish to book a visit, please contact Nora on 01475 540 505 between 11am and 4pm.

There is a fantastic range of events and activities lined up for the Summer – here is what is on from June to mid-July.

Admission to Finlaystone Estate is £4 for adults and £3 for children. This includes access to the Tearoom.

June

Sunday 1st Teddy Bear Picnic 1-4pm Bring teddy or dolly for a tea party with the mad hatter; Prizes for the best fancy dress. Fun & games and a display of tame owls.

Monday 2nd Junior Ranger 1-3pm Aimed at 5 to 10 year olds, come and learn what our Rangers do and work towards a Finlaystone Junior Ranger Certificate.

Saturday 7th Wild Night Stay a Night in the Woods, bring - food, sleeping bags, camper mats, outdoor clothing, waterproofs and a tent.

West End Life Magazine

Adult £7.50 child £5.00 Pre-booking essential Sunday 15th Make Bird Box and Feeders 1-3pm A contest to make the most ridiculous bird box!

Bring anything you can think of to camouflage your bird box. £2.50 for materials Pre Booking Essential Wednesday 18th Intro to Gardening 1-3pm Are you the next Alan Titchmarsh? Come along to get an introduction into gardening and discover more about our wonderful gardens.

Sunday 22nd Cowboys and Indians 1-3pm Fun & games around the forts.

Tuesday 24th Den Building 1-3pm Build a den in the woods and learn a few wilderness survival tips from the Rangers that will help you become the next Bear Grylls.

Thursday 26th Mini Beast Hunt 1-3pm Six Legs, Eight Legs, 100’s of Eyes a tube to sip nectar or mandibles to rip prey. Forget Pokémon; let’s catch some real pocket monsters.

Sunday 29th Butterfly Hunt 1-3pm Join our Rangers in finding those elusive butterflies and contribute to our species identification.

July

Tuesday 1st Den Building 1-3pm Build a den in the woods and learn a few wilderness survival tips from the Rangers that will help you become the next Bear Grylls.

Thursday 3rd Mask Making 1-3pm Come along and be creative and make your very own mask.

Sunday 6th Robin Hood Day 1-4pm Join our Rangers in a Robin Hood V Braveheart day including pipe bands, craft stalls and competitions.

Wednesday 9th Make Bird Box and Feeders 1-3pm A contest to make the most ridiculous bird box!

Bring anything you can think of to camouflage your bird box. £2.50 for materials Pre Booking Essential Saturday 12th Wild Night Stay a Night in the Woods, bring - food, sleeping bags, camper mats, outdoor clothing, waterproofs and a tent.

Adult £7.50 child £5.00 Pre-booking essential Sunday 13th Teddy Bear Picnic 1-4pm Bring teddy or dolly for a tea party with the mad hatter; Prizes for the best fancy dress. Fun & games.

Finlaystone Country Estate Langbank Renfrewshire PA14 6TJ

www.finlaystone.com www.westendlife.biz | 31

32 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

DEANSTON Located just eight miles from Stirling, at a picturesque location on the River Teith, Deanston Distillery has a rich and vibrant history that’s just waiting to be discovered.

Transformed from its previous life as a cotton mill in the 1960s, Deanston has been handcrafting quality whisky using traditional techniques ever since. The visitor centre, which opened in June 2012, is the perfect place to showcase not only the fascinating history of the distillery but to offer a unique insight into traditional

West End Life Magazine

whisky production and Scotland’s industrial past. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the distillery, and experienced tour guides and whisky experts are on hand to bring every aspect of it to life.

With a range of tours available, budding whisky connoisseurs can enjoy a dram while they learn about everything from the heritage to the distilling techniques. Any visit is perfectly rounded off by a trip to the distillery café, The Coffee Bothy.

It’s a fantastic setting to enjoy a selection of wholesome and freshly made food.

Each of the distillery’s expressions, Deanston 12 Year Old, Virgin Oak, and our Distillery Exclusive Editions, have been made onsite using Scottishgrown barley and are known and celebrated for their sweet, fruity tastes with hints of honeyed spiciness.

For more information phone 01786 843010 or visit www.deanstonmalt.com

www.westendlife.biz | 33

WEST14 34 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

This Summer, 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, where it continues to watch over the bustling city and picturesque tenements 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 buildings.

The University of Glasgow offers walking tours lasting approximately one hour which will take you on a fascinating journey around some of the University’s most significant spots – from the atmospheric cloisters to philosopher Thomas

Tours University of Glasgow

discover over 550 years of history

Reid’s tombstone and to the staircase Lord Kelvin would take from his house to his laboratory.

Also discover the connections between James Watt, Adam Smith and Isabella Elder whose names are 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 the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the tour is an essential part of any visitor’s experience of Glasgow.

All guides are also full-time 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 12pm – 11pm Sunday, the club serves a selection of hot and cold beverages and a range of snack food.

Tickets can be purchased from guides or online: Adults £10.00 Concession (over 60s and students) £8.00 Families (2 adults and 2 children) £25.00 Under 18s £5.00 Under 5s free Please note there is a booking fee of £1 per ticket.

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

Private 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 www.westendlife.biz | 35

Special Commonwealth Games Offer at Western Health & Racquets Club We know that many Glasgow Club facilities will be closed over the games so here are some special offers for you if you are affected or simply just inspired to GET ACTIVE! Starting any time from 1st May to 1st August check out our great Commonwealth Games offers below: Tennis and squash £30/ month or £75 for 3 months Gym only £35/ month or £99 for 3 months Full £40/ month or £110 for 3 months No joining fees for these special offers.

Call 0141 339 0065 to arrange or pop in and see us at the club. @westerntennis 01413390065 Info@glasgowwestern.co.uk

Who needs Brazil?

Kelvinside Football Camp at Balgay – run by ExProfessional and Coach Ian McCall.

The aim of the camp is to inspire children not just to improve their football skills but to learn techniques in team building, leadership, problem solving and resilience- as well as having lots of fun too! Here are some testimonials from Ian’s football camps so far this year…

“Professional and friendly organisation of the Camp in Balgray -by far the best camp we have ever had the good fortune to find” “The week really improved Harry’s skills and Ian has a really good way of building confidence ... Obviously as an ex Professional Footballer and coach, he has so much insight and experience to offer.”

To reserve your child’s place at the Kelvinside Football Camp, email kelvinsidesportscamp@gmail. com or call Ian on 07854 470 319.

Summer Football Camps

Summer Camps at Western Health & Racquets Club!

8 week summer camp Monday to Friday From 30th June to 22nd August.

Kelvinside Football and Multi Sports camps at Balgray with Ian McCall.

All welcome & full details can be found on:

A fantastic variety of activities including Tennis • Football • Treasure Hunts • Shoe Golf(!)

www.kelvinsidesportscamp.blogspot.com For further details call Ian on

Check out www.glasgowwestern.co.uk for more information & click on the ‘summer camp’ link on the home page. Places are filling up fast so book through the online system NOW to avoid disappointment!

or E: Kelvinsidesportscamp@gmail.com

07854 470 319

Tel: 0141 339 0065

30 Hyndland Road, Glasgow, G12 9UP Email: minitennis@glasgowwestern.co.uk www.glasgowwestern.co.uk 36 | West End Life – June/July 2014

@westendlife

West End Life Magazine

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Is biomass the answer for your home energy?

As the price of fossil fuels continue to rise and the drive to cut carbon emissions increases, one option on the table is to heat homes using wood or other plant matter.

Wood-fuelled heating systems, also called biomass systems, burn wood pellets, chips or logs to provide warmth in a single room or to power central heating and hot water boilers.

A stove burns logs or pellets to heat a single room - and may be fitted with a back boiler to provide water heating as well. A boiler burns logs, pellets or chips, and is connected to a central heating and hot water system.

A wood-fuelled boiler could save you up to £650 a year compared to old electric heating.

Wood fuel for a biomass system is generally cheaper than other heating options although the price does vary. However, schemes such as the Renewable Heat Incentive

West End Life Magazine

may be available to help with the cost.

Of course, for many people, the main incentive for installing woodfuelled heating systems is that they are a low-carbon option. The carbon dioxide emitted when wood is burned is the same amount as was absorbed when the plant was growing.

When considering converting to biomass, it is worth bearing in mind that the boilers are generally larger than traditional boilers and that you will need somewhere to store the fuel (logs or pellets) and access for deliveries if you are going to buy in bulk to ensure the best price. The advantage is that you can stock-pile fuel for colder months.

You will also need a flue that complies with all the regulations for wood-burning appliances. A wood-fuelled system can usually be incorporated into your existing

heating system.

Wood-fuelled boilers, stoves and heaters should be kept clean and swept regularly to remove ash.

This depends on the appliance but it is important to keep it running properly. It’s also necessary to sweep chimneys and flue pipes regularly.

You may be eligible for help with installation costs under the Government’s Green Deal scheme.

To find out more, contact Ian Gillespie of Streetwise Energy (see page opposite for details).

Ian is passionate about making sure people’s homes are the most energy efficient they can be – saving householders money and helping the environment.

As an energy assessor and Green Deal adviser he is the best person to advise on the suitability of biomass for your home, or business, and the easiest and most costeffective way to install a system.

www.westendlife.biz | 39

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

40 | West End Life – June/July 2014

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www.westendlife.biz | 41

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

Domestic and Commercial • Call for a free no obligation quotation • Carpets dry within 2 hours • Upholstery cleaned in your home • Curtains cleaned where they hang • Rug and leather cleaning specialists Check out services and reviews on our website

www.mcmillanschemdry.co.uk www.facebook.com/mcmillanschemdry.co.uk

Phone us free on 0800 298 1295 Or Bearsden office: 0141 943 2305 Hillington office: 0141 892 6300 All 24 hour lines 42 | West End Life – June/July 2014

The McM

illan fam

ily at you

r service

’…

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AYE RIGHT? HOW NO’?

The Comedy Countdown To The Referendum Monday July 21st A sideways, satirical look at the big choice facing Scotland in 2014. Keir McAllister and Vladimir McTavish will look at some of the big issues and many of the smaller ones behind the Referendum.

Not sure what it’s all about. This might help you make up your mind – then again, it might not. A mix of stand-up and panel-show comedy, plus poetry, political comment, music and spoken word. “Amusing and thought-provoking”-STV “Insightful, satirical political comedy”-Skinny “Satirical barbs and neat twists on Scotland’s culture”-Scotsman “An insightful, comedic look into the Scottish psyche” -ThreeWeeks Venue:Glasgow Doors:19:30 Show: 20:30 Full:£7.00 Conc:£5.00 Members:£5.00 www.thestand.co.uk

Best Prices Guaranteed

Win 2 Tickets to The Comedy Countdown to the Referendum!

A fun filled night out awaits, whether you’re a yes or no man! To be in with a chance of winning, simply visit www. westendlife.biz, click on ‘competitions’ and follow the instructions from there.

Closing date Monday 14th July.

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

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• 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.

www.westendlife.biz | 43

Choose the Right Garden Furniture Having the right garden furniture can really enhance the time you spend in the garden.

To help you decide what you need, consider how you will spend most of your time outdoors. Will it be regular alfresco dining with the family, weekend barbecues with friends, or just you relaxing with a good book?

Knowing the function of your furniture can help you decide whether reclining padded beds, a sophisticated dining table and chairs, or relaxed informal seating is what you need. Of course it may be a mixture of all of the above.

The amount of space you have available should also be taken into account. You might drool over a fantastic sofa with matching arm chairs in a catalogue, but do you really have the space to accommodate it.

In addition to your outdoor space, think about where you will store your furniture. Whilst vinyl covers can protect your furniture from summer showers, it really is best kept in a shed or garage during the worst weather. This is where fold-away pieces can be incredibly practical.

When considering the material of your furniture, consider durability and maintenance as well as appearance. Wooden furniture is popular and versatile, but needs regular weatherproofing. Metal items require less maintenance, but have the disadvantage of being hot to touch in the sun. Some colours

of plastic furniture also become hot, and plastic may become brittle if left outside in all weathers.

Several materials offer a variety of colour choices. Remember though that white reflects the light so can be uncomfortable to look at in the glaring sun, and black absorbs the heat so can become very hot. The safest colours are therefore mid-greens, or natural wood. Many prefer muted tones, adding style and personality through bright cushions.

Big Green Egg Redefining the British Barbeque!

The Big Green Egg is the World’s Best Ceramic Barbecue Smoker and Grill, giving unmatched cooking flexibility for the past 40 years. Whether you want to tackle high temperature, quick searing for the perfect rare steak, roast a whole chicken at a more moderate temperatures, or tenderise a ten-hour brisket in “low-and-slow” mode, you just can’t beat the EGG® when it comes to effortless cooking and sensational eating.

We now carry a full line of Big Green Eggs and Eggcessories.

Stop by our showroom to see the Big Green Egg or visit BigGreenEgg.co.uk to learn more.

Visit Our Showroom at Auldton Farm, Lugton Road, Dunlop Telephone: 01560 480002 | www.auldtonstoves.co.uk Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun & Mon Closed

44 | West End Life – June/July 2014

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Welcome to the most important part of the gardening year!

Early Summer has arrived, and no mistake, with frequent showers combined with higher temperatures meaning perfect conditions for incredibly vigorous plant growth. Unfortunately that includes the weeds as well! It’s not uncommon to feel that the garden is getting away from you at this time of year, but the trick is to keep plugging away, do what you can do, and soon enough the initial growth spurt settles down.

Here are a few key things you can do to help keep on top of things: Mow the lawn regularly, at least once a week if possible.

If you can’t do it that often, just make sure you don’t leave it more than two weeks between cuts, thereby preventing weeds setting seed.

Hoe the borders over. Don’t panic about pulling every little weed out, just break their stems, West End Life Magazine

turn the soil and leave the weather to kill them off.

Water your plants during dry periods, particularly potted plants and especially if they sit under the eaves of your house.

Dead head flowers. This can often encourage re-flowering.

Don’t waste your time tying up daffodil leaves. Wait 6 weeks after flowering and then chop or mow the leaves down.

Now is also the time to plant out bedding plants. These are the small colourful plants, usually they only last one season, but they’re not expensive and they provide a lovely splash of colour.

Perhaps a few round the edge of the plant pots at your door?

Plant them generously and treat them like any other plant, then at the end of the season just pull them out and chuck them on the compost. You’ll find a good

choice at your local garden centre and these may be of better quality than the ones you find at some of the bigger non-specialist stores.

May is also the time to trim Privet hedges – these are the common type of hedge with small dark green leaves. Check them for birds’ nests first – it is illegal to disturb a bird’s nest. Don’t worry too much about cutting Privets too closely as they are good at regenerating, unlike some other kinds of hedge. And don’t forget to feed your hedge like any other plant - manure, compost or a granular or liquid feed all work fine.

And then don’t forget to sit outside with a cold drink and enjoy your hard work – this is why we do it all in the first place!

Thomas Angel is managing director of Thomas Angel Gardens Ltd (www.thomasangel.com) www.westendlife.biz | 45

Summertime tastes without a single burnt offering

COOK – the creator of fabulous frozen meals – moved into the West End earlier this year and transformed suppers for many hungry Scots, offering comforting favourites such as of lasagne, beef stroganoff and fish pie.

Now that summer is here COOK has launched its Discover Summer range to meet our desire for succulent and tender meats with crispy salads and vibrantly spiced kebabs served with exotic breads.

In short, it’s barbeque season.

Wonderful as it is to spend all day coaxing your charcoal to the perfect temperature and then to be at the mercy of the weather, sometimes you just want the outdoor grub hit without the hassle.

That’s where COOK comes in again. Their range of summer food satisfies the warm weather appetites for top-quality barbie meals without you even having to venture outside, if you don’t want to.

Of course, perfect barbeques are possible with the right equipment, such as the Big Green Egg (www.biggreenegg.co.uk) , but not everyone has the space for one of those.

However, if you want perfect results, guaranteed, every time then head over to COOK – at their actual shop in Kelvinbridge or online (www.cookfood. net) – to explore their Discover Summer range.

WIN £100 worth of BBQ FOOD West End Life in conjunction with COOK Glasgow are offering two lucky readers the chance to win Gourmet barbeque food worth £100. To enter visit www.westendlife.biz and click on Competitions.

46 | West End Life – June/July 2014

The range has three seasonal themes. COOK Grill is where you’ll find everything for a gourmet barbeque (you can finish things off on a ‘real’ outdoor flame, but it’s not essential). On offer are burgers, steaks, ribs and sausages.

The COOK Deli range features all the ingredients for a perfect picnic. Think lazy days by the river, wicker baskets and chilled lemonade. On the menu are fresh salads, delicious tarts and fresh baked focaccia.

Finally, COOK Med dishes up meals that will whisk you right back to that perfect holiday. There are tiger prawns, tapas-inspired meatballs and pasta parcels just crying out to be unwrapped.

Even if the weather isn’t going along with the expectations of summer, there’s nothing to stop you dining in seasonal style, perfectly every time.

Big Green Egg is redefining the British Barbeque and their sole Scottish distributor is Auldton Stoves in Dunlop.

Visit www.biggreenegg.co.uk for more information.

@westendlife

GE NEW SUMMER RAN IN-STORE NOW!

“

Fabulously enjoyable hand-made frozen meals...

You won’t regret it.

End Life Magazine COOKWest Glasgow • 498

The Spectator

Great Western Road • 0141 334 0302 • cookfood.net

“

www.westendlife.biz | 47 Glasgow • G12 8EW

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48 | West End Life – June/July 2014

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